Selling Fords, that is. Not doing an appearance for a nickel as somebody suggested. Not just helping with voice over stuff (coming soon to the Score) or billboard advertising (sans copper pot unfortunately!). I'm selling vehicles. Actually, I prefer to look at myself as the Purveyor of Fine Trucks and other Sparkling Ford Products. I've got lots to learn, but so far, it's been a hoot. Lots of colorful characters in this business and I really like my sales manager and the GM.
More responses to your queries and comments.
Yes, I'm rolling out of bed for less than $100K. Much less, actually. At least for now. I know that tickles some of you. For those, sorry to ruin your day but I don't have to keep hitting home runs... just singles. If I wind up hating it or sucking at it, I'll do something else but I'm giving it at least a year.
Yes, I am enjoying it. Worked at a dealership as a porter when I was 18 and thought the vibe was cool. And I truly believe in the product. With one exception and for only a short time, I've endorsed only Fords since my first deal (in '93, at Webb). I've purchased or leased at least 10 vehicles at Webb. I support my hometown when I can. And my commute is a whopping 3 miles!
Yes, I have a son who will need lifetime assistance. His name is Patrick. He's 23 and severely autistic. He's the best thing that's ever happened to me. My monthly nut on a life insurance policy so he can live when I'm not, however, is more than many spend on a monthly car payment. I gotta bang out another 10 years at a low, low six figure-income to keep living the way I do.
Yes, I spent recklessly when I was making fuck you money. I didn't really have anything (other than a good time!) until I was 30. And I started over financially in '04 after a divorce. I also was as magnanimous as any host in Chicago when it came to rewarding co-hosts and producers. I took the MJH crew to fucking Hawaii to do a week at the Pro Bowl in '06. I gave my kids things I didn't have. I took many expensive vacations. I regret nothing.
Yes, I miss Bears/NFL Mondays. The audience(s) misses me too. I don't hear much good about sports radio these days. I'd change that overnight, but I understand I'm a high-risk proposition and management people are in "save-your-own ass" mode as terrestrial radio continues to bleed . At least I have my podcast. In case you're not hip to it, it's called "Dan McNeil - Unsupervised." Done through locally owned and operated RadioMisfits.com. Right now it drops on Monday and Thursday mornings. Averaging about 40 minutes a show.
Yes, I plan to expand the show. Likely before the first of the year. Eventually, it'll be daily. If you're an iTunes person, get it through Apple Podcasts there.
No, I don't regret my decision to reject the Score's offer (two of 'em actually: August of '14 and February of '15 after PM stepped down). I regret the outcome. I followed my heart. The result was, shall I say, unfavorable.
And by the way, I didn't "piss away" my job at ESPN. They fired me because they didn't want to me the scheduled $800K I was ascending to in the final year of my deal. You might recall a recession in '08.
I'll hang up and listen for your cat calls. Just remember, the best revenge is to live well. I'm doing that.
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