Small Town, Big Personality: Chris Palliser



Over a decade ago, Chris Palliser graduated from Camosun College’s Applied Communications 
Program (ACP) with wanderlust and a passion for radio. Since then, he’s been a solo host for 
stations all over British Columbia. After years of working his way up the industry ladder, Chris 
now finds himself in back in Victoria with a significant co-hosting gig at 107.3 Virgin Radio.

“Just like anything, you start small and work your way up,” says Chris. “For radio and television 
and stuff, you go to the smaller markets.” In working for over seven different stations over the 
course of his career, each of which in varingly populated cities, Chris has grown to appreciate 
the community that local broadcasting can facilitate.

“Everytime you crack the mic,” Chris says, “you just have to think ‘who’s listening right now?’” 
According to Chris, it’s the personal connection between a host and their audience that keeps 
radio running. As a husband and father-of-two, Chris seems to be of relatable stock to many 
of Victoria’s listeners.

“It’s all about community,” Chris says. “You need that village.” This mentality holds steady in 
the face of today’s digital climate, wherein broadcast media is arguably struggling to keep up 
with streaming services.

In fact, two months ago, Victoria’s 107.3 Kool FM officially rebranded to Virgin Radio with the 
hopes of a fresh start, and of building a greater audience in Victoria. Though the station is now 
owned by the conglomerate iHeartRadio, it seems to be well aware of the value that a 
niche-but-loyal audience can bring.

“Our goal for the show is to be local and community-minded,” says Chris. “It’s cool to be a part 
of something new.” His on-air partner, Brittany King, is also a born-and-raised Victorian with a 
lengthy background in broadcasting. Together, they’ve been hosting “Virgin Mornings” for about 
seven weeks.

“Unfortunately, there aren’t too many small companies around anymore,” says Chris. “The big 
companies are buying everybody out.” Chris’ experience with differently scaled radio companies 
gives him a unique lens on the media industry.

Particularly, on how the incredible resources and international connections of larger companies 
like Bell Media and iHeartRadio are a trade-off for less slack and a more corporate environment. 
At the same time, Chris offers encouragement for those interested in entering the broadcast 
industry.

“Radio’s got a lot of life left,” says Chris. “It’s always gonna have a place.”  

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