We were lucky to catch up with Panagiotis Balalas recently and have shared our conversation below.

Panagiotis, appreciate you joining us today. What do you think it takes to be successful?

To me, success in the radio industry, much like any other field, hinges on a blend of passion, adaptability and relentless determination. I have been working for Greek radio stations since 1997 and I’ve seen firsthand how crucial it is to have a deep-seated passion for what you do. It’s this passion that fuels the creativity needed to innovate and stay relevant in an ever-evolving industry.

Adaptability is another key ingredient. Over the years, I’ve witnessed numerous shifts in technology, audience preferences, and industry trends. Embracing change rather than resisting it has been pivotal in staying ahead. One particular anecdote comes to mind: In the early 2000s, I had the opportunity to host a special live radio broadcast celebrating Greek Independence Day. Our goal was to bring Greeks from around the world together through a shared cultural experience. We invited listeners to call in and share their personal stories, memories, and reflections on what being Greek meant to them.

One call came from an elderly woman living in a remote village in Greece. She recounted how, as a child, she had listened to radio broadcasts during World War II, which gave her hope and a sense of connection to the outside world. Hearing her story was incredibly moving and reminded me of the profound impact radio can have on people’s lives, especially in times of hardship and isolation.

The broadcast received an overwhelming response, with calls and messages pouring in from all corners of the globe. It was a powerful reminder of the unifying power of music and storytelling and how radio can transcend geographical boundaries to create a sense of community among Greeks worldwide.

This experience taught me that success is not just about reaching a wide audience but about creating meaningful connections that resonate deeply with people. It’s about using the platform to give a voice to those who might otherwise remain unheard and to celebrate the rich tapestry of our shared heritage.

Lastly, determination plays a crucial role. The radio industry, like any creative field, can be demanding and competitive. It’s the ability to persevere through challenges and setbacks that ultimately distinguishes those who thrive from those who falter.

In essence, success in radio, or any career, isn’t just about skill or luck – it’s about embracing and staying true to your passion, adapting to change and never losing sight of your goals, no matter how daunting the obstacles may seem over the years.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I have been immersed in the radio and communications industry since 1997. From an early age, I was captivated by the power of storytelling and the ability of music to transcend borders and connect people from all walks of life. This passion led me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and Communications from the University of Western Macedonia in Greece, and later, a master’s degree in Media and Communication from the University of Greenwich in London, UK.

My career began in Greece, where I had the privilege of working with several radio stations, crafting programmes that resonated with Greek audiences both at home and abroad. I’ve always been driven by a deep commitment to preserving and promoting Greek culture, which I believe is a vital part of our identity and community spirit. This mission has been at the heart of my work at MGR My Greek Radio in London, where I currently host shows that bring Greeks worldwide together through music, stories and shared heritage.

In addition to my radio career, I have over 15 years of experience in the marketing and communications industry. I am proud of my track record in creating and implementing strategic campaigns that enhance organisational visibility and brand presence across both digital and traditional channels. Currently, I work as the PR & Communications Manager at CIBSE (Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers) in London, which is an international membership body that represents building services engineers, where I apply my skills and working experience to raise the profile of the organisation.

What I am most proud of in my career is the opportunity to bridge cultural divides and unite people through my work. Whether it’s through a song played on the radio that brings back cherished memories or a successful campaign that brings about positive change, my greatest reward is knowing that I have made a meaningful impact on individuals and communities.

My journey has been driven by a desire to connect, inspire and elevate, and I look forward to continuing this work and finding new ways to reach and engage audiences across the globe.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Building my reputation in the radio and communications industry has been a journey fueled by passion, authenticity, and commitment. Several key factors have played a significant role in helping me establish and grow my professional standing.
From the beginning of my career, I’ve been driven by a deep passion for connecting people through storytelling and music. This genuine enthusiasm has allowed me to create content that resonates with audiences and builds lasting relationships. By focusing on creating meaningful connections, I have been able to cultivate a loyal listener base and engage communities worldwide.

I believe that producing high-quality work is also essential to building a strong reputation. Whether it’s a radio broadcast, a marketing campaign, or a public relations strategy, I always strive for excellence. This commitment to quality has helped establish trust with my audience and clients, demonstrating that they can rely on me to deliver exceptional results.

The media landscape is constantly evolving, and I’ve always prioritised staying informed about the latest trends and technologies. By continuously learning and adapting to changes in the industry, I have been able to stay ahead of the curve and provide innovative solutions. This proactive approach has helped me remain relevant and effective in an ever-changing environment.

Being true to myself and my values has been crucial in building my reputation. I strive to communicate with honesty and integrity in all my professional interactions. By being authentic, I have earned the trust and respect of my colleagues, clients, and audience, which has been instrumental in my career growth.

I also believe that success is built on strong relationships. Throughout my career, I have prioritised cultivating meaningful connections with colleagues, industry professionals, and listeners. By collaborating and supporting others, I have been able to create a network of people who share and amplify my vision.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being both a radio host and a communications professional is the unique opportunity to connect with people on a personal level and make a meaningful impact in their lives. Each role allows me to engage with audiences in distinct but complementary ways, and together they create a fulfilling and dynamic career. As a radio host, I have the privilege of reaching listeners across the globe and creating a sense of community through shared experiences and stories. There is something magical about the power of radio to transcend distance and bring people together through music and conversation. Knowing that I can play a part in connecting individuals and preserving cultural roots is incredibly fulfilling.

In both radio and communications, storytelling is at the heart of what I do. Crafting compelling narratives that capture attention and inspire action is a deeply rewarding process. Whether I’m sharing a song that evokes nostalgia or developing a communications campaign that drives change, I love the challenge of engaging and inspiring my audience.

Both roles allow me to tap into my creativity and think outside the box. The media landscape is constantly evolving, and I relish the opportunity to develop innovative strategies and content that resonate with diverse audiences. This creativity keeps my work exciting and ensures that I am always learning and growing.

Perhaps the most gratifying aspect of my dual roles is the ability to make a positive impact. As a communications professional, I can shape narratives and influence perceptions, which can lead to meaningful change. Meanwhile, as a radio host, I have the chance to uplift, entertain, and educate listeners every day. Knowing that my work can inspire and make a difference in people’s lives is incredibly rewarding.

Balancing these two roles has allowed me to develop a diverse skill set and gain a broader perspective on the media and communications industries. This has not only enriched my career but also contributed to my personal growth. Each day presents new challenges and opportunities, and I am grateful for the chance to continually evolve and contribute to the field.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.panagiotisbalalas.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/panagiotis_balalas/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PanagiotisBalalasOfficial/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/panagiotisbalalas/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/PBalalas
• Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@panagiotisbalalas