Published on 29 January 2021
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“It took about eight years, a career change - then another career change - to end up where I am now. Sometimes it just takes time and you’ve got to be patient. Never say no to work and be prepared to make sacrifices.”
That’s the advice 34-year-old Tamsin has for anyone looking to start a career in radio.
After transferring from Manchester, Tamsin completed the final year of her Film and Media degree at Sunderland, where she went on to study a Masters in Media and Cultural Studies.
“I was totally blown away by the Media course,” she said.
“We did music thesis and it was so cool to be in a lecture learning about pop and rap. I just thought it was a really diverse course. There was so much on offer.
“I had no idea about radio, though. It was my mum who encouraged me. She said I love music and I’ve the gift of the gab.”
After graduating, Tamsin decided to take the plunge and in 2010 volunteered at three radio stations; Spark Sunderland, Radio Tyneside and Lionheart Radio. She then landed a job at Sun FM working for the Street Team as well as doing some weekend presenting.
Eventually, Tamsin moved over to Smooth Radio to work in sponsorships and promotions before deciding to take a completely different direction.
“I thought I wasn’t getting anywhere with radio so in 2016 I moved to Devon to be a pastry chef,” she explained.
“My mum, sister and I all love to cook and bake. It was the best six months of my life, but it was hard and very stressful, and the pressure was really intense.”
Then, when she least expected it, Tamsin got the call she’d been waiting for.
“Sometimes you never know who is listening, that’s something I would always say to anyone trying to progress in radio, “she said.
“I got a message from the head of BBC Radio Newcastle saying he heard me on the radio and he was interested.
“I started doing a Sunday afternoon show, then it went from weekend work to doing three nights a week. Then an opportunity at BBC Radio Sunderland came along and I took it.”
The BBC launched the new temporary local output for Sunderland to help people through the latest coronavirus lockdown.
It began broadcasting earlier this month and Tamsin, who presents mid-mornings, said it’s been intense.
“We’ve turned around an entire radio station in two weeks but I am loving it,” she explained.
“There’s a big focus on Sunderland and the people have got so much warmth.
“I was born in Newcastle but I’ve lived in Sunderland most of my life, I think it’s a great city.”
Acting Editor, Rik Martin, said: “It’s great to have Tamsin on the team for BBC Radio Sunderland. She went to school and university in the city so has a real passion for Wearside and that really shines through on the radio.
“BBC Radio Sunderland is here for the people of Wearside in these extraordinary times but as well as keeping communities informed, connected and safe it’s also important to keep spirits up and share some of the positive stories and celebrate those who make a difference.
“Listening to Tamsin on the radio is like having a friend by your side, which, at a time when everyone is social distancing, shouldn’t be underestimated.”
So, what does the future hold for Tamsin?
“If money was no object, I’d be getting my pilot’s licence and training with some famous chefs,” she said.
“Joking aside, I’m just living each day and waiting to see what happens and progressing as a radio presenter.
“I love pushing those buttons, chatting and playing the tunes.”