Meet Jackson Heaton | Radio host

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jackson Heaton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jackson, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
You are responsible for your success. Do not expect handouts. People will offer you advice along the way, but where you end up depends on you and you alone.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I host the nights show (7pm-midnight) for Rock 100.5 here in Atlanta. I started as a remote tech in that building in 2014 and built my way on-air. By August 2016, I was doing weekends on the station. The road was very difficult. I heard a lot of no’s from Program Directors and even more “You’re almost there. Just a little more work.” Now, when I give lectures to aspiring broadcasters, I give the same advice I used to get where I am today; don’t take no for an answer and get in the reps. Make demo after demo and send them off to your program director. Chances are that they won’t even listen to 25% of them, but at least they see you are putting in the work. Take every opportunity that comes your way relating to radio experience. We’ve all worked weekends and holidays. Tough break. Do it and have a smile the whole time, even if it sucks. The biggest lesson I have learned is something that took me a long time. A radio station is about the “we” and not the “I.” I found my niche when I became “Atlanta’s Resident Rock Ambassador.” I support these local bands through emceeing and my “Home Brew” segment on Rock 100.5 (every weeknight at 8:30).

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Breakfast spots we have to hit: *Burritos at El Taco Veloz *Brunch andd Bloody Mary’s at Hugo’s Oyster Bar *Omelettes at R.Thomas Deluxe Grill Lunch: Head down to Krog Street Market, get a beer at Hop City bar and a burger at Fred’s Meat and Bread (best burger in Atlanta by far). Smoke cigars at Buckhead Cigar Dinner: Wrecking Bar in Little Five ALL DAY! Love this place. The food is on point and the beers are even better. For fun: I”m “Atlanta’s Resident Rock Ambassador.’ We are obviously going to a concert. Definitely going to hit up Smith’s Olde Bar to see who’s playing. If there aren’t concerts, then we’ll check out a Hawks game. Breweries to hit up: Scofflaw, Bold Monk and Variant.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Jim Hutto. Formerly of WMSL-Athens Chris Carter. Formerly of WKHX-Atlanta

Instagram: redeyrocker
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackson-heaton-91b7a854/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jackson.heaton/