Nikki Darling Marra
Wenatchee,WA
Summary
Results-driven broadcasting and media professional with extensive experience in on-air hosting, audio production, and event emceeing. An innovator in using storytelling and karaoke to connect cultures, engage communities, and drive successful fundraising initiatives. Transitioned into a project management entrepreneur, excelling at developing and executing strategic media initiatives. Recognized for building meaningful relationships, leading complex projects, and delivering impactful results in both media and event management. Broadcasting professional prepared to bring extensive hosting experience and audience engagement to the role. Known for delivering high-quality content and fostering positive listener relationships. Strong focus on teamwork and adaptability, ensuring smooth operations and successful broadcasts. Skilled in public speaking and content creation.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
4
4
Certifications
Work History
Owner & Media/Podcast Specialist
Darling Productions, LLC
08.2020 - Current
- Founded and grew the Washington State Swap Meet, earning Tourism Grants from the City of East Wenatchee in 2023 and 2024 to boost local tourism
- Partner with businesses, non-profits, and community leaders to deliver tailored media strategies that drive engagement and results
- Produce, distribute, and market What's Up Wenatchee?, an award-winning podcast recognized for promoting diversity and inclusivity
- Develop and oversee comprehensive media platforms, ensuring alignment with strategic marketing goals
- Manage financial operations, including budgeting and expense optimization
- Negotiated contracts with vendors for advertising placements and other promotional activities at competitive rates.
- Increased brand awareness through creation of innovative print and digital productions for major publications.
Karaoke Host & Event Emcee
Various
01.2010 - Current
- Hosted and KJed karaoke events, blending music and storytelling to bridge cultural divides and unite communities
- Project managed, executed, hosted, and performed in Christmas Karaoke Competition at Festival of Trees, the largest fundraiser for the Numerica Performing Arts Center, in November 2023
- Designed and led fundraising events, using interactive storytelling and karaoke to maximize community impact
- Curated themed karaoke nights, fostering lasting connections and enriching the cultural experience for attendees
On-Air Host
Alpha Media - Country 104.7 KKRV 'Homegrown' Mornings & 100.5 KWIQ
09.2021 - 11.2022
- Delivered engaging and high-energy morning show content tailored to the local community, driving listener engagement and loyalty
- Developed and executed promotional strategies to connect with audiences both on-air and at community events
- Worked alongside marketing teams to create effective promotional strategies for upcoming station events or initiatives.
- Promoted station events and contests on-air, driving listener participation and brand loyalty.
Virtual Program Specialist
Veeva Systems
10.2019 - 07.2021
- Managed high-stakes virtual events on platforms like Zoom and WebEx, ensuring flawless execution and attendee satisfaction
- Delivered training and mentorship to over 100 sales representatives and thought leaders, enhancing virtual engagement capabilities
- Developed and presented detailed reports to improve virtual meeting effectiveness and streamline operations
Program Director & Morning Show Co-Host
Cherry Creek Media
09.2016 - 06.2020
- Directed programming and spearheaded initiatives that led to significant ratings increases
- Co-hosted the #1 morning show, The Breakfast Burrito, a community-driven brand she created and expanded to strengthen local engagement
- Recruited, coached, and developed on-air talent, fostering a high-performing, innovative team culture
- Delivered outstanding program results by setting clear objectives and proactively addressing potential challenges.
- Advanced community outreach efforts by forging strong relationships with local partners.
Program Director
Central Washington University
09.2014 - 06.2016
- Oversaw KCWU-FM's operations, ensuring compliance with FCC and university standards while maintaining a vibrant programming schedule
- Developed and implemented a Radio Broadcasting curriculum that evolved into a successful minor program
- Designed a comprehensive training model for student employees, emphasizing hands-on experience and career readiness
- Collaborated closely with executive leadership to develop strategic plans for long-term growth.
- Maintained and updated project related documents.
Education
Master's - Radio & Media
University of London
London, UK 01.2009
Bachelor's - Communication
William Paterson University
Wayne, NJ01.2007
Skills
- Team leadership
- Event Emceeing & Hosting
- Strategic Content Creation
- Storytelling & Entertainment
- Networking skills
- Financial Oversight
- Effective Communication
- Strategic planning
- Client relations
- Project management
- Budget management
- Business development
- Staff training
- Vendor management
Certification
- First Aid/CPR Certified, 01/01/24, 12/31/25
- Licensed Medical Marijuana Consultant, 01/01/24, 12/31/25
- BJTC Accreditation, Broadcast Journalism Training Council, 01/01/09, 12/31/09
- Lambda Pi Eta Honor Society, Beta Xi Chapter Member, 01/01/08, 12/31/08
Timeline
On-Air Host
Alpha Media - Country 104.7 KKRV 'Homegrown' Mornings & 100.5 KWIQ
09.2021 - 11.2022
Owner & Media/Podcast Specialist
Darling Productions, LLC
08.2020 - Current
Virtual Program Specialist
Veeva Systems
10.2019 - 07.2021
Program Director & Morning Show Co-Host
Cherry Creek Media
09.2016 - 06.2020
Program Director
Central Washington University
09.2014 - 06.2016
Karaoke Host & Event Emcee
Various
01.2010 - Current
- First Aid/CPR Certified, 01/01/24, 12/31/25
- Licensed Medical Marijuana Consultant, 01/01/24, 12/31/25
- BJTC Accreditation, Broadcast Journalism Training Council, 01/01/09, 12/31/09
- Lambda Pi Eta Honor Society, Beta Xi Chapter Member, 01/01/08, 12/31/08
Master's - Radio & Media
University of London
Bachelor's - Communication
William Paterson University
Volunteer Experience
- WA Glacial Valleys Coalition for NCW Tourism, 01/01/22, 12/31/23
- District Chair Member, 01/01/19, 12/31/21
- Advisor, EQuAL (CWU Student LGBTQIA+ Group), 01/01/15, 12/31/16
- Founder & Vice-President, Pride of Ellensburg, 01/01/15, 12/31/17
Conferences & Courses
- Student Leader, Parent Training Leadership Institute (PTLI), Present
- Panel Moderator, Power of Media for PTLI, 11/01/24
- Presenter, One Million Cups, Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce, 01/01/23
- Panel Speaker, College Music Journal's (CMJ) College Day On Tour, Portland, OR, 01/01/15
- Panelist, Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) Conference, NYC, 01/01/11, 12/31/16
- Panelist, College Broadcasters, Inc. (CBI) Conference, Seattle & Minneapolis, 01/01/14, 12/31/15
- Speaker, Jacobs Media at Radio Ink's Tech Summit, Silicon Valley, CA, 01/01/11
Awards
- Davey Award Winner, 2022, What's Up Wenatchee? for General-Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and General-LGBTQ+ in Podcasts
- Rainbow Award Recipient, 2016, CWU Staff Participant Award
- Jacob's Media Radio's Most Innovative, 2015, College Radio Road Trip
- New York Festivals Award, 2015, Best Editorial/Viewpoint Audio Documentary
Volunteer Experience
- WA Glacial Valleys Coalition for NCW Tourism, 01/01/22, 12/31/23
- District Chair Member, 01/01/19, 12/31/21
- Advisor, EQuAL (CWU Student LGBTQIA+ Group), 01/01/15, 12/31/16
- Founder & Vice-President, Pride of Ellensburg, 01/01/15, 12/31/17
Conferences & Courses
- Student Leader, Parent Training Leadership Institute (PTLI), Present
- Panel Moderator, Power of Media for PTLI, 11/01/24
- Presenter, One Million Cups, Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce, 01/01/23
- Panel Speaker, College Music Journal's (CMJ) College Day On Tour, Portland, OR, 01/01/15
- Panelist, Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) Conference, NYC, 01/01/11, 12/31/16
- Panelist, College Broadcasters, Inc. (CBI) Conference, Seattle & Minneapolis, 01/01/14, 12/31/15
- Speaker, Jacobs Media at Radio Ink's Tech Summit, Silicon Valley, CA, 01/01/11
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