MS Success Story: Joseph C. Thomas, Jr.

Name: Joseph C. Thomas, Jr.

Profession/ Title/ Name of Business: Station Manager for WYAD 94.1 FM in Yazoo City, MS 

Hometown City/ State: Yazoo City, MS

When did you know that you wanted to be an entrepreneur? For me it goes back to 1997. I was working at a job and witnessed someone who was promised a job never get it. I said then I could never work for someone and not own the business. The seed was planted then.

 
Who have been some of your role models in business? My parents for sure. I have seen them run businesses since the 1980s, including a thrift store and laundry mat. I was blessed to be around people who had businesses and were focused on having something of their own. 

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Going out on your own is not easy. What helped you to take the first step? I couldn’t find a job I could devote myself to, so I decided to create one. I told myself if I was going to work hard, I was going to work hard for myself.

 
How important was learning or honing your craft to your success? It’s very important. I didn’t know anything about broadcasting. I didn’t have any idea how to operate a radio station. When you're in a small market you have to learn it all. You can’t keep calling others to fix things and do things. You have to learn to do things yourself. 

Fear stops so many from going for their goals and dreams. What helped you to overcome the fear? I want to do it my way. The fear of failure is what motivates me. I wouldn’t want failure to define who I am. 

What advice would you give to others who look at you and want to follow your path? Everything that glitters is not gold. Sometimes you have to go without a lot of things. You can't think short-term. You have to have long-term goals and work towards them everyday. Being in business comes with a lot of sacrifices. The sun might be shining today, but you have to prepare for the rainy days, too. You’re in charge good or bad. You have to do what is necessary if you really want success. 

What are you looking forward to in 2023, either personally or professionally? I am looking forward to expanding the radio station. That includes creating more opportunities for new shows and talent. It is my goal to continue to put WYAD and Yazoo City, MS on the map.

Stay connected with Joe on Facebook as well as joethomas75@gmail.com and 1-662-571-1603.