Gabriel C. Pérez/KUTX

Elizabeth McQueen

Podcast Host/Producer

What musical experience most set you on the path to a career in radio?

I moved to Austin in my twenties to play music. After about a year here, I started to think about other jobs that interested me and I public radio came to mind. I’d been an avid public radio listener since my teens. I was in love with KUT — I loved the breath of music they played, I loved the support they gave to Austin musicians and John Aielli was a bright light in my life — so I applied for an internship. I helped Jeff McCord in the music department for about six months before I left to concentrate on my own music. I was lucky enough to spend the next decade making and playing music, both on my own and with Asleep at the Wheel. During that time my love for public radio stayed strong. When I left the Wheel I knew that I wanted to be a part of KUTX, and luckily, they let me come on as a member of the weekend on air-staff and let me start the This Song podcast. What can I say, I just love playing music — both my own and other people’s — and talking about music. KUTX is the kind of place where I can have a job doing what I love. Which is just cool.

What’s your favorite Austin music experience so far?

This town and the music that’s made here has been a full life experience for me. I met my husband because of Austin music, I’ve played in bands with people who’ve become my extended family and I’ve been constantly inspired by the creativity bursting out of everyone around me.

Why public rather than commercial radio?

I’m so into the idea that people can create the beauty they want to see in the world, and public radio is the perfect example of this. It only exists because the community wants it to exists and supports it’s mission. How cool is that?

How do you spend your time when you’re not spinning records on the air?

I hang out with my incredible daughters and husband, teach voice for Anthropos Arts, Emcee events, play the occasional gig and am co-president of the Maplewood PTA. Go Mustangs!

Finish the sentence: “Austin Music Is ….”

…my home.