‘Meet the DJs’ is a new blog series to get to know the DJs that keep WRFL running 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, without any automation. The first DJ we’re going to meet is Katerina Stoykova, the host of Accents– a radio show for literature, art and culture that airs on WRFL, Tuesdays from 1 to 2pm.
How long have you been a WRFL DJ?
7 years.
What do you do on your show?
I interview poets, writers, musicians, artists and journalists. Each episode of Accents is an in-depth conversation about books, creativity, literature, art, etc. It is incredibly enriching to me personally, and I hope to the audience, as well.
Why did you join WRFL?
I wanted a platform from which to highlight important achievements in contemporary literature. WRFL was and is welcoming, accommodating, and a perfect home for a show striving to provide such a service.
Why do talk about what you do on your show? What sparked that interest?
I’ve had a lifelong interest in writing and writers. Writers are my tribe. I find them fascinating and I normally prepare three pages of questions for each guest about their books, stories, poems, creative/editing/publication process. I learn a lot through these conversations. Also, Accents gives writers and artists opportunities to talk about what is personally important to them, as well. I want to hear that, too.
What’s your process for planning your show?
I invite guests and if they are available, schedule them for an appearance. In preparation I read about the guest, research their major accomplishments and learn interesting trivia. Ultimately, though, I try to let the conversation flow naturally, no matter how many pages of questions I have fanned across the board before me.
What do you do outside of WRFL?
I am a poet, publisher, editor, translator and a teacher of creative writing. I own and operate Accents Publishing – an independent literary press based in Lexington. We’re about to celebrate our tenth anniversary in February, 2020! Oh, yes, I’m also a movie actress whenever the opportunity presents itself. See Proud Citizen and Fort Maria – both directed by Thomas Southerland.
Do you have a favorite memory of something that happened at WRFL, either during your show or at a WRFL event?
Every time I feel I’ve been able to put my guest at ease and help the listeners get to know them, I feel joy and satisfaction.
What other WRFL shows/DJs do you like listening to? Why?
Trivial Thursdays. Mick and Leif are brilliant and do an amazing service to the community. I think Mick deserves a medal for doing his show for so many years. Don’t stop!
What do you want listeners to take away from your show?
Creativity is a birthright. Creativity takes many forms. Creativity is not optional for a happy and fulfilling life. It is never too late to be creative. Take care of your creativity, and it will take care of your heart.
What do you hope for the future of your show?
Many more years of conversations with interesting guests.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Love and light to all.
Tune in to Accents with Katerina Stoykova, on Tuesdays from 1 to 2pm on WRFL.
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