Legendary media executive and headhunter Rob Barnett takes us on his journey through the wild, unpredictable world of radio and television, that included being tasked with replacing Howard Stern on CBS Radio. A challenge that would become one of the most talked-about moments in broadcasting. But not to be upstaged by his earliest achievement, when he convinced the Rolling Stones to play a secret show for 300 WAAF listeners in Boston back in 1981.

The episode explores Rob Barnett’s evolution, from major programming roles to trailblazing online video networks like MTV, VH-1, and My Damn Channel. He reveals big risks that lead to iconic moments. And how his own career pivot created a compassionate career coaching platform and executive job search for media professionals. If you’ve been “on the beach” without a job, Rob Barnett breaks down the frustrations of the modern job hunt, shares practical tips from his book Next Job Best Job and website NextJobBestJob.com, and gives real advice on standing out in today’s changing media landscape.

Here's how you can find your next job: https://nextjobbestjob.com
Here's how you can hire Rob 1 on 1: https://robbarnettmedia.com
Here's where you can buy the book: NextJobBestJob/Amazon

Rob's email: rob@robbarnettmedia.com

(0:00) "Unexpected Support Through Vulnerability"

(7:36) "Tracking Down the Rolling Stones"

(11:31) "Rock Radio's Golden Era"

(20:07) "MTV's Impact on Music"

(22:14) "MTV's Early Music Gatekeepers"

(28:18) "VH1's Hit Show Origins"

(34:22) "Replacing Howard Stern Nightmare"

(41:56) "Launching My Damn Channel"

(46:09) Biden Project Leads to Layoff

(49:20) "How 'Next Job, Best Job' Began"

(56:11) "Bypass HR: Reach the Boss"

(1:03:05) Mastering the 30-Minute Interview

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