Stacey Norman: Redefining Radio in KwaZulu-Natal

Early Beginnings and Breakthroughs

Stacey Norman, a drive host on East Coast Radio, KZN’s number one hit music station, has been captivating audiences for over 20 years. Beginning her career as a teenager, Stacey has become a figure who truly embodies the spirit of KwaZulu-Natal. Her pathway into radio was a serendipitous event that would lay the foundation for her future. Stacey recalls winning a talent competition at KFM at just 15 years old—a contest she didn’t even want to enter. Her mother, acting behind her back, was the one who made it happen, a fact Stacey acknowledges with humour and gratitude. She shares, “My mother did it behind my back, so she is single-handedly responsible for everything that I’ve done and reminds me every chance she gets.” Stacey also emphasises the unwavering support from her father, who was always there with a video camera, recording every moment of her journey.

Starting with weekend overnight shifts at KFM, Stacey quickly demonstrated her talent and drive. She moved up the ranks, shifting to weekend evenings and then to daytime slots, becoming the youngest person to host daytime radio at the station. Her dedication and skill led to her show being simulcast by Primedia to 94.7 in Johannesburg, further expanding her reach. Over the years, Stacey’s career evolved beyond radio to include television appearances and hosting gigs across the country. Despite her growing profile, her most significant career moment arrived when East Coast Radio invited her back, leading to her becoming the first female drive host at the station in 2020.

A Unique Voice and Approach

Stacey quickly forged a special connection with her KwaZulu-Natal audience. She reflects, “I feel like KZN was waiting for me. There are so many women in this province who are loud, vivacious, and unapologetically themselves. And they needed some kind of representation. I see myself in these women, and I think they see themselves in me. It feels like I’ve come home.”

Her approach to radio is unorthodox, breaking away from the traditions of the industry. Rather than adopting a formal tone, Stacey creates a space where listeners are co-hosts in the conversation. She strives to make every listener feel involved, explaining, “I want the audience to feel like they’re talking to me, not at me.” This genuine engagement extends beyond the studio, with Stacey encouraging listeners to approach her in public just as they would on air.

Overcoming Obstacles and Embracing Authenticity

As a woman in the male-dominated radio industry, Stacey has faced her share of challenges. She notes that female presenters were historically confined to supporting roles and rarely hosted prime time or drive shows. Despite these barriers, Stacey has established herself at the forefront of the industry, propelled by determination and a refusal to conform to stereotypes.

Her journey has not been without personal challenges. Stacey describes the difficulty of distinguishing her true self from her public persona, admitting to struggles with insecurity despite projecting confidence. In an effort to be more relatable, she has taken on personal challenges live on air, such as publicly attempting to get her driver’s licence. By sharing her vulnerabilities, she encouraged listeners to join her, resulting in a shared journey that helped others overcome their own fears as well.

Words of Wisdom and Future Aspirations

Stacey offers honest advice to young women aspiring to follow in her footsteps. She emphasises that success in radio requires hard work, perseverance, and the support of others. “It’s difficult, and you have to accept that,” she says, encouraging women to push through insecurities and challenges.

Her central message is to remain authentic: “Find your signature, and don’t try to be someone you’re not. Because if you start with a fake accent or a fake personality, you might have to keep that going for 20 to 30 years. Radio is an incredibly beautiful medium, but it takes time and respect. If you’re looking for fame, go somewhere else. But if you want to make an impact and create something meaningful, this is where you belong.”

Stacey’s ultimate goal is to reach the pinnacle of her profession by hosting a breakfast show. She remains driven by a desire to grow and challenge herself, seeking a balance between ambition and presence.

Life Beyond the Studio

Off the air, Stacey finds peace in running, embracing her introverted side. She values quiet time alone, using running as a form of meditation while listening to Taylor Swift or a podcast, enjoying her solitude and recharging away from the spotlight.