The Julia Show: Interview with Julia Lepidi
We have had the honor of interviewing podcast and radio the star of The Julia Show, Julia Lepidi. She shares her experience starting her own radio show, her favorite segments on the show, and the experience being a female podcast host.
How did you decide to start The Julia Show? How have you seen it grow over time?
“‘The Julia Show’ is a product of growth! I was doing afternoons on B96 (WBBM-FM) in Chicago when Audacy decided to have me host a Top 40 nationally syndicated show. I was simultaneously a part of ‘Church of Lazlo,’ an iconic alt/rock show on Alt 98.7 (WDZH-FM) in Detroit. That’s when I parted ways to start ‘The Julia Show’ as its own separate alternative morning show.”
Of the “Dirty in 30,” “Life Hack of the Day,” and interview-style episodes, which is your favorite style to produce, and why?
“My favorite content to produce is ‘Life Hack of the Day’ because it requires research and I learn practical life lessons through the creative process. For example, when I held the waistband of my pants out and wrapped it around my neck so the ends touched it helped me figure out my size. I was floored that this little trick worked. Now I know I never have to try pants on at the store again and neither do my listeners!”
What interview experience has been your favorite thus far? Why did you enjoy it so much?
“I have had a few memorable interview experiences. I always look forward to spending time with Ed Sheeran. He’s incredibly down-to-earth. It never feels like an interview with him, but more a catchup instead. I try to recreate that vibe with all my guests. Another fun answer is Cardi B. I asked her about her tweet where she carries a water bottle with her to public bathrooms to rinse after she ‘clears throat.’ Her answer was so hilarious that we made E! News that day with her talking about washing her bum.”
How do you try to set your content apart from the other hosts in your genre?
“I’m myself. I can surely get into my head, but I’ll always step back and think about what content I resonate with so it feels genuine. From the beginning, my bosses have said, ‘No one ever has the same takes as you.’ I try to lead with that and frame discussions in a Julia-fied way.”
Are there any other female talk show/podcast hosts that inspire you? If so, who and why?
“There are SO many industry personalities that inspire me. Angi Taylor is one of them because her effortless talent and smarts have paved the way for women-led morning shows. Megan Holiday is another role model because she’s an incredible interviewer who manages to create community, tell her story, and be relatable and fun to listen to while doing a show outside of the morning drive timeslot. Although she is more in the coaching realm, I have to mention my boss Christine Malovetz who has made such an iconic name for herself during her time on air. Without her, I wouldn’t be the personality I am in the alternative format.”
Have you had any experiences either with interviewing for your show or just in the industry in general that sparked personal setbacks (ex. imposter syndrome, burnout, stereotyping, etc.)? How did you navigate through those experiences?
“I’ve dealt with all of those things. The industry has changed a ton. Grief has come with the pandemic years, even while being in a spot that I’m incredibly grateful for. Both feelings can exist, but they’ve made me stronger and helped make me more adaptable. I’ve navigated these challenges introspectively, so my
instinct is to embrace feelings, journal, go to therapy, self-reflect, correct my course and come back stronger.”
What influence do you hope to have as a female, media personality?
“Let’s start flipping the narrative of who we picture in some of these job roles. Women can lead morning shows, host nationally syndicated shows, and conduct interviews and we can do it well!”
If you could, what is one piece of advice that you’d give to your early-career self?
“I worked extremely hard at the beginning of my career. I still do! In the past, I didn’t allow much time for my personal life, so my advice is to prioritize a work-life balance equally. Taking care of yourself is important because it only makes everything much better.”