Behind the Scenes with David Goddette

Each month, "Behind the Scenes" features an interview with a leader in our community designed to provide readers a glimpse into his/her interests and passions inside and outside of the workplace

This month, "Behind the Scenes" sat down with David Goddette, VP of Sales for VOX AM-FM Digital

Where did you grow up?

I’m a native Vermonter. Growing up in Vergennes until attending college in Johnson, Vermont where my wife and I settled for about 17 years. In 2018, we purchased a home in Essex, Vermont and is where my family and I currently reside.

Where did you go to school?

I attended Vergennes Elementary School and Middle School then onto Rice Memorial High School in South Burlington, graduating in 1997. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Johnson State College (Vermont State University) in 2002.

What's the greatest career risk you have taken?

I think the biggest risk was walking into a smalltown commercial radio station 22 years ago and submitting my resume and radio audition tape. There were no guarantees but was lucky to have a few mentors early on that guided my passion and pointed me in the right direction.

First ever job?

Well, I think my first ever job was mowing my Uncle’s Lawn back in the late 80’s. However, officially, my first job(s) was washing dishes at TOGO’s Restaurant (now Rockers Pizza) in Vergennes and working summers at Rivers Edge Campground on Basin Harbor Rd in Ferrisburgh.

Who was your greatest inspiration growing up?

There was a radio station in my hometown that I visited during a field trip in Elementary School. From that day forward, I was a fan of that radio station, of the music and DJ’s and eventually, in college, had the opportunity to explore this passion and never looked back.

Who do you most admire?

I was a volunteer Fire Fighter for about 17 years and worked with an incredible team. They would, at a moment’s notice, leave their families and respond to the aid of another no matter the time of day, what they were doing, the weather outside. I admire the individuals around us that are dedicated, selfless and passionate about keeping our communities safe and who are there when the call goes out.

Favorite Vacation Spot?

As a child, my family would vacation in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina every year. I have wonderful memories of spending time at the beach, playing several rounds of mini golf and eating plenty of seafood. It’s been a while since I’ve been back and hope to make that trip with my family soon.

Favorite movie, TV Show?

I usually find my self landing on old sitcoms from the 80’s and 90’s. I love “Fraiser.” I’m a big fan of movies written/directed by John Hughes. Since we’re headed into the holiday season, “Home Alone” is always a top pick.

Favorite type of music?

I grew up in the 80’s and still remember the first-time putting Styx - Mr. Roboto on the record player, lining up the stylus and hitting the play button. I was blown away and became an instant fan of the music. In college, I hosted a radio show where I shared my love for 70’s and 80’s Rock Music and amassed a rather large collection of Records, Tapes and CDs. I still have them all today.

Typical work week?

There is no typical work week. Every day is different; however, I usually arrive at the office after dropping off the kids at school and daycare around 8am and leave the office at about 6pm. Sometimes weekend or evening events are planned but do my best to spend time with family as much as I can.

Biggest Career Challenge?

Well, the last few years have not been easy. Managing a team during a pandemic, an eventual shut down and the turbulent return to what we’re calling a “new normal” has been a challenge. I don’t think I’m alone when saying that the pandemic impacted everyone. However, the last few years have also been a real opportunity to learn, look for efficiencies and make thoughtful changes on how we do business.

What's the one thing you would like to see change in your business/industry?

Radio is celebrating 100 Years of Broadcasting in Vermont, in 2023, and is an amazing milestone. A lot has changed over the last Century, however our mission to serve the community hasn’t wavered. Nationally, listenership of Radio has remained steady. Nielsen reports, in 2023, that AM/FM Radio reaches 91% of U.S. 18+ Adults weekly, which is a huge number. It is one of the most powerful promotional mediums in the United States and is also one of the most trusted. I feel perception, by some, is that we are no longer a leading communication platform. This is far from the truth. We need to, as an industry, do a better job sharing our strengths and abilities as a promotional platform. That our mission to support our local community hasn’t changed and as listener habits evolve, radio too will evolve to meet those demands. A Century of Broadcasting in Vermont has proven this.