Radio personalities make a living using their voice to connect with thousands of people everyday.

Our "Behind the Mic" series continues with WDEZ's midday radio personality Vanessa Ryan.

She says her job is so much more than spinning records.

Weekdays from 10 in the morning to 1 in the afternoon Vanessa Ryan serves up the hits on 101.9 WDEZ.

She admits she loves country music but there is one gadget this music fan can live without.

"I'm always listening to new music and finding new things, I don't have time for an ipod," says Ryan.

She grew up Wisconsin and brings her inner cheese head to work everyday.

"I grew up in Central Wisconsin, and my parents taught me those values and I think that's why we connect so well."

The Wisconsin Broadcasters Association recently named her show one of top three in the state.

So what's the secret to her success? It may be authenticity.

"I'm me, I come to work everyday and don't try to pretend to be someone I'm not...I love country listeners because I think they have a sense of family and they put family god morals and family first."

Despite being heard by thousands of listeners everyday, Ryan admits she still gets a touch of stage fright now and then - but that just keeps the job exciting.

We asked her what she'd be doing if she had to choose a career outside of radio.

"Probably being an actress because I've been told I'm dramatic or writing a book because I love to write."

In fact she's already shared the title of her potential memoir with her listeners.

"It happens just like that Sugarland song, life happens, stuff happens you've just got to keep on keeping on life's crazy!"

During her 14 years in radio she has met some of country music's biggest stars.

"Keith Urban, [he's] my favorite, Carrie Underwood, Brooks and Dunn, Garth Brooks, I just met him for the first time about a year ago in Nashville it was pretty cool."

This working mom considers her listeners a part of her family. She says talking to that family is one of the best parts of her day.

"Everyday I can't wait to come to work, music is my absolute favorite "I love working with the listeners."