Want to be a Radio DJ? In Japan of all places? Then read carefully to what Catherine has to say about working in Tokyo, doing just that. Catherine was one of Brad's clients in Tokyo and certainly always had interesting stories to tell about her job! In essence, Catherine's everyday job is working on the radio at 76.1 InterFM from 6-10am presenting news and entertainment segments, but she does and has done a variety of work around Tokyo in the spotlight. MCing major events such as Konishiki's wedding (former champion sumo wrestler) and for Richard Branson when he came out to promote his new flatbed on Virgin Atlantic, as well as television reporting, writing a magazine column and interviewing celebrities like George Lucas, Nicholas Cage and Britney Spears. She has also published a book based on her 'Better English with Catherine' radio segment that airs six times a day. Shes a busy girl!

Catherine says:

"I always feel I need to be challenged." Catherine does not like to limit herself to just being on the radio and hence does a variety of 'Personality' jobs, as its labeled in Japan, to keep herself on the ball. She says that motivation and passion for your job go a long way in this business.

She suggests that if you want to succeed in Japan, you need to, "Learn about Japan, love Japan, love the language and your heart should be in it" But in her experience, the people that are the most successful are the ones who show heart. "It shows in their eyes, it shows in their behavior...you can't act that." She adds that it's also invaluable to have spent time living in Japan to understand what your listeners and viewers want. "You've gotta know what to talk about. How would somebody fresh off the boat know what to talk about? You know what I mean, like what's going on in town, how to pronounce the names. At least live here for a while so you know what's going on, and what people want to hear."

Early in her career, doing plenty of voice work and getting herself known, certainly helped her advance up the ranks. She adds, "[This job] is not only about talking, it's about knowing the equipment, knowing the timing, and the production." Another American co-worker that she works with on the show does all these things well, and that was the major factor in him becoming successful...he could do the job of several people.

Income varies considerably, but to give you an idea of how financially rewarding this job can be, Catherine says that one of her colleagues gets paid about Y600,000 (approx. $6000) for only a couple hours work, and more than US$10,000 a month in conjunction with other work.

If you've got a bit of experience, a good demo tape, and there's an opening available, you've got a shot.