Work Day Woes: According to Mike Tussey, performing a split shift was far from enjoyable.

In the small town of Ashland, Ohio, in 1960, a young man named Mike Tussey began his career as a Teller at the 2nd National Bank. His hours were from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., and he enjoyed weekends and holidays off, earning a modest $1.71 per hour or net $49 weekly.

However, Tussey's ambitions extended beyond the confines of the bank. In 1961, he was offered a part-time job as a DJ at WIRO over in Ironton, Ohio, working weekends only to supplement his income. This marked the beginning of his career in broadcasting.

Tussey's daily routine was demanding. He would rise at 5 a.m. and travel from Ashland to Ironton, crossing a bridge that had a 25-cent toll, amounting to $22 a month. His shift at WIRO began at 6 a.m., and he would join his on-air partner, Hal Murphy, at 7 a.m., working through 9 a.m., and finishing his shift at 10 a.m. The afternoon drive time show from 4 p.m.-6 p.m., known as the "Town Clowns Show," was another part of his routine. This schedule created a long 12+ hours per day, including a small break, leaving little time for personal activities or family time.

In the fall of 1964, Tussey was assigned to co-host WIRO's Morning broadcast - "The Coffee Grounds Show" with Hal Murphy. Despite the demanding schedule and the stress it caused, Tussey developed a unique personality and learned the nuances of the job. He worked 8 hours on Saturday and 8 more on Sunday at WIRO, which provided him with extra income that greatly helped his finances.

In 1964, Tussey was offered and accepted a full-time position at WIRO to work 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday through Saturday, earning $20 more a week than at the bank. This was a significant boost for Tussey, who was determined to make a career in radio.

Between 1964 and 1967, Tussey started his workdays as a cowboy. Despite the long hours and the strenuous work, he found time to pursue other interests. He was later promoted to Program Director at WTCR.

Tussey's career in broadcasting was not limited to radio. He had a stint in law enforcement, teaching and coaching, writing books, and announcing over 2000 football, baseball, and basketball games for ESPN+. His public persona was known only through his voice, as he and Hal Murphy were not visibly together during their broadcasts.

After nearly 3 years of the "Split Shift," Tussey was offered a lucrative midday shift at WTCR and accepted. This marked the end of his long workdays, as he now had a dream job with Monday through Friday hours from 9-5.

Mike Tussey's journey from a bank teller to a radio pioneer is a testament to his resilience, determination, and passion for his craft. His contributions to the world of broadcasting are still felt today, and his legacy continues to inspire many.