091 Interview: Chris Hawkins

Welcome to this episode of the Fail Forward podcast. In this episode I talk to Chris Hawkins, the early morning DJ and "How to DJ" podcast host as he shares his journey into radio. Stemming from his early days work experience at BBC Radio Shropshire where he kept his badge and just kept turning up and making tea, to his current role at BBC 6 Music. A true enthusiast of the medium, Chris emphasises the importance of dedication in the world of radio – noting it's the 10,000 hours that it takes to get you noticed. It's a full-time job as he gets sent 200 songs a week to listen to "you don't want to miss the next Coldplay" he says. Beyond his day job, Chris delves into the podcasting world with "How to DJ," offering listeners an intimate look into the life stories, inspirations, and misadventures of DJs, blending anecdotes from famous and lesser-known names. With insights into curating radio shows and club sets. A must listen for all music enthusiasts and wannabe DJ's. Chris is also an advocate for open conversations about mental health, something close to my heart, and the unifying power of music through his role as an ambassador for Nordoff and Robbins Music Therapy. He cites young artist Hack Baker who very openly talked about his own mental health on the show, the outpouring was huge, and people still talk about that show says Chris. And of course, its no secret that the drink and drug underworld is prevalent in this industry and "some fall victim" including DJ Barry Ashworth, lead singer in the Dub Pistols, who talked of the highs and lows on Chris's podcast. The episode concludes with a nod to his dream collaborations and the reformation of iconic bands, "I'd love to see Talking Heads reform –at Glastonbury!" If you enjoyed listening to Chris and would like to listen to more of his "How to DJ" podcasts, click here, or join him for new music on BBC Radio 6 from 5am. If you're enjoying the Fail Forward podcasts, follow me on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok or LinkedIn for all the latest on my mission to help business owners Fail Forward. Facebook https://www.facebook.com/failforwardhenri LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/henri-ghijben-539132101/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@failforward12 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/henrighijben/