We’re fortunate enough to work with many morning shows and personalities – some are winning and doing great, others are on a steady rise, and some need a jump-start we’re happy to provide.

One of our favorite quotes is from SNL creator, Lorne Michaels:

“If you’re not about what people are thinking about that week, then I think you don’t have any relevance.”

As we step back and think about what it takes to really win in today’s new world, some telltale signs of where a show is truly headed remain in place.  Of course, things like talent, X-Factor, intelligence, preparation, resources,  and many others make the list.  But what we’re focused on today is awareness.  It’s surely a telltale sign, and without it, a personality or show often sounds disconnected – which leads down the wrong path.

So, today’s post is nothing more than an easy 10 question quiz/reminder to be fully aware of what’s going on.

  1. Who is Jeremy Lin?
  2. Who is Kate Upton and what is she famous for?
  3. Hugh Hefner’s son is in trouble for what?
  4. Who is Matt Bomer and why is he in the news?
  5. What’s the up-to-date status of the Whitney Houston saga?
  6. Who were the big Grammy winners, besides Adele?
  7. Who are the judges on “The Voice”?
  8. What’s the Oprah/Twitter flap about?
  9. What’s happening with the GOP primaries – who’s leading, which contest is next, what are the headlines?
  10. Which movies are on top of the box office right now?

While we could ask many more questions – and covering all of the stories above or knowing the answers to all 10 questions won’t guarantee a show will be successful – not knowing the answers to many of the above questions will reveal a show that’s either not spending enough time prepping or plugged-in to what’s going on.