Today we’d like to introduce you to Adam Montiel.
Hi Adam, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born and raised in Agoura Hills and later moved to the central coast in 2003. My profession revolves around radio broadcasting, a field I’ve been passionate about for over 20 years.
After starting my career in radio, hosting shows like “Up & Adam in the Morning,” I discovered a newfound passion for wine. This led me to create and produce “The Cork Dorks,” a radio show dedicated to featuring local winemakers and making wine accessible to everyone.
Following a career transition in October 2023, where I was laid off from the company owning the radio stations I worked for, I embarked on an independent journey. Encouragement from listeners, community leaders, and business owners prompted me to continue independently. The success of my podcast, “Up+Adam,” which made waves on the charts upon its debut, splashing at #26 on the US Podcasts Charts for Daily News, further fueled my determination. Up+Adam is currently downloaded in all 50 states and 30 countries. Following the success I created with “The Cork Dorks,” I am also currently launching more wine and lifestyle content called “The Pour.”
Achievements and Accomplishments:
Throughout my career, I’ve achieved recognition as a successful radio show host, event emcee, and community advocate. In 2023, I was honored as the Citizen of the Year, and in 2022, I received the Blue Ribbon Award for my show, “The Cork Dorks,” by the Western Fair Association.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Transitioning from being laid off to launching my independent show within a month showcased my determination, especially during challenging times for the company. This resilience has been acknowledged in the community and media, leading to opportunities such as hosting a TEDx talk on the theme of “determination” in April.
Moving forward, my goal is to continue representing and sharing the stories of the beautiful area I live in. Additionally, I aim to leverage my broadcasting passions through the more powerful medium of podcasting to promote tourism and help wine regions gain recognition by uncovering and sharing their unique stories.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a storyteller. I am a broadcaster. I love interviewing people. I feel God put me here to help others tell their stories. I love and have always loved asking questions. I also host and emcee events. Large galas, small non-profit events, to announcing live auctions. I recently hosted the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce Gala as well as the Paso Robles Wine Country Annual Gala. Later this year, I will host Twilight on the Terrace at Hearst Castle, as well as Lumina Nights for the Lumina Alliance, which helps women and victims of intimate partner violence. That’s my live hosting stuff.
Broadcasting: I host a daily show, Up+Adam. I also host a show called The Pour, which features wine, spirits, hospitality, and lifestyle. I also host a top ten wine podcast in the country, ‘Where Wine Takes You,’ which focuses on the fastest-growing wine region in the world, Paso Robles.
As far as what sets me apart from others is my approachable style. I for some reason connect well with people, and love to interview them and peel the layers back.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I got engaged at Hearst Castle last year, and we swam in the pool 🙂 – I know it’s not work-related, but… kinda cool.
Was recently asked to do a TEDx talk at the PAC Sunday April 14, in the theme of Determination – I am super excited.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://adammontiel.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adamontheair/
- Other: https://adammontiel.com/up-adam-show
Image Credits
Jennifer Olson
Brittany App
Edible & Jennifer Olson
PMG Film
Garth Brooks
