You didn't have to...

Radio people should be passionate, energetic, emotive and inspiring. If you want to see the concentrated version - visit Student Radio.

Today the SRACon 2013 came to a close in Leicester and I had a brilliant, wonderful, and inspiring surprise too. I learned by the following tweet of an Honorary Life Membership. WOW!

A lovely surprise and whilst I replied across two tweets, the reality is that those 280 characters don't do it justice and so I kicked open the old redundant blog to say a few thanks and note a few things about why I particularly love Student Radio.

So here goes...

Firstly, to the SRA and Student Radio people... you really didn't have to!

Thank you so very much, but it should be me that thanks you. Getting involved in Student Radio actually gives ME inspiration. It reminds me in a really powerful way of why I love radio. Student Radio people are the most passionate, energetic, creative, funny and inspired people and it rubs off!

I came away from the SRACon feeling re-energised and re-charged and I only went to the first 2 days. I thank YOU for that!

Over the years I have been coaching, speaking and encouraging Student Radio because of that energy and passion that powers it and the people in it. The other thing that is unique about Student Radio is this...

Those involved are in a "learning environment"- a University or college, therefore totally used to asking for, and getting feedback. It happens every day on their course. The Student Radio station they might be involved with is also a release from that course-work, meaning it has an energy to it. It means that when I, or anyone from the world of radio gives some feedback, direction, input or perspective, the level of discussion that follows and the participation is at a very high level. If you want proof, numerous times over the last few days I've read tweets from speakers commenting on the great questions and comments coming out during sessions. Some of the most enjoyable and detailed discussions on radio and the reasons why things are done one way or another have been with those from Student Radio.

So, thank you SRA for the honour today, but most of all thank you for being inspiring, exciting, energising, experimental, questioning, intelligent, surprising, gracious, and welcoming.