In our Meet the Squids series, it seems we’ve also managed to cover many distinctive facets of New Orleans culture (food, drink, music, and numerous organizations), and this week’s interview with Eric Arvidson, CFO, is no exception. Eric is one of the voices of the beloved New Orleans’ listener-supported radio station, WWOZ, now in the midst of its annual membership drive.
Eric offers his thoughts on why he loves WWOZ, and talks to us about one of his more… fiery hobbies.
What does your day typically consist of?
A typical day consists of emails, spreadsheets, planning, and meetings. Each day can be a bit different, but the overall goals are to make budget projections and make sure we pay our artists each month. Much of my time is spent helping others do their job, and sometimes that means staying out of the way!
What’s your favorite thing about working at TurboSquid?
Working at TurboSquid is always a challenge and each day presents something new. I enjoy that we try to keep the “corporate rules” to a minimum. But when it really comes down to it, distilled down to its essence, what makes TurboSquid cool is the people – employees, artists, friends and family. It is fun to see everyone working from so many different angles, for a common goal.
What do you do when you’re not at the Squid HQ?
I have fun doing different activities, and enjoy living in New Orleans where you can really enjoy life. I am a volunteer radio host at WWOZ known around town as “the greatest radio station in the universe”. I’m also involved in our regional Burning Man organization that has been very active building large scale art to take to Nevada and to Mardi Gras Krewes. I love making art, even though I never felt like I was very creative.
I love to travel and try to get out of the country at least once a year. I am also in the TurboSquid Fantasy Football League, as a returning two-time champion.
NOLA Burners’ 2012 project, Bebe Brulee, was featured at Burning Man.
Eric says, “I love to create big art structures and then burn them down. Of course, we do it on purpose (and safely), but I think that scares my wife sometimes…”
WWOZ is in the midst of its membership drive – why do you think WWOZ has become so important to New Orleans? Oh, and when can you be heard on the air?
I think WWOZ is the voice of the culture of New Orleans, and as they say at the station, they are the Guardians of the Groove. New Orleans has such a unique and robust music scene and I think it is vital that there is an outlet for local musicians and sounds be heard. We are very lucky to have such a wonderful radio station that pushes that out, all over the world. I am not regularly scheduled on air, so you just have to keep listening to hear me next!
One more thing! Tell us about your favorite model from the TurboSquid catalog.
I love this Sea Stallion. Just a cool looking, big helicopter.