Cultivating Smiles

Jordan Soto was born to make people smile. As the two- year cohost of New Country 99.1’s morning show, Soto knows how to show up with mega-watt energy—and she doesn’t limit that spirit to her time on-air. Now Soto is carving a new path in entertainment, and she has her eye on Northern Colorado with a podcast and lifestyle show in the works, along with casting calls for TV shows and films. As Soto looks to the future, she sheds a little light on what’s next and how she keeps her unflagging enthusiasm.

Q. Tell us about yourself.
A. Hey y’all. I’m Jordan Soto, a 26-year-old world-traveled professional broadcaster, video and audio producer, social media director, writer, model and actress. I attended the University of West Florida, majoring in broadcast journalism. I moved here to take over the morning show at New Country 99.1. To take over after a legendary 30-year run by The Good Morning Guys was something that a radio broadcaster only dreams of, and to have their blessing was even more humbling. I promised them that I would take great care of the audience here, and over my 2-year run at the station I feel like I can say I truly did my best to do just that.

Though my main career has been centered around radio, I actually never intended to get into radio. However, as a fan of music and entertainment, I quickly found a deep passion for radio broadcasting. Being able to be a real friend to someone through their speakers was more fulfilling than I ever dreamed. It was a blessing to wake up every morning with listeners and give back to the community. I plan to stay in the entertainment business for a long time.

Q. Your career track is varied. From professional broadcaster to video and audio producer to model, actress, writer—which of these career paths are you most passionate about? How do you continue to pursue them?

A. I just love being an entertainer, there is such a sense of freedom in it. Putting
a smile on someone’s face is one of the best things, and I can do that just by being honest about what’s happening in my life. I feel like being real and fun helps those enjoying my “fall downs” not feel alone. If I can just make one person feel happiness, even just for a moment, then I feel as though I’ve really accomplished something.

Q. How do you set out to become a public figure? What are some of the triumphs and challenges?
A. I actually started as a receptionist and worked my way up to hosting a morning show within two years. With every career there are highs and lows. A big win was believing in and never giving up on myself, as well as accomplishing my goal of hosting a morning show. The greatest challenge was balancing my work and personal life. I can be a workaholic sometimes, so taking time for myself is something I often have to remind myself to do.

Q. You auditioned for American Idol. Tell us all!
A. Oh my goodness, what an experience. I signed up not expecting to actually get an audition slot, then I did! It was so interesting to do a Zoom audition; everything is a little different this year with the pandemic. I performed Amy Winehouse’s “Valerie” in front of a producer. Though the producer said it was a good rendition, I unfortunately didn’t make it to the next round. I just wanted to prove to myself that I wasn’t scared to try…. Mission accomplished! Even if you fail, it is worth it to try.

Q. What has been one of the most unusual/funny/exciting moments of your public career?
A. Oh, boy. There are a lot; it’s hard to narrow it down. I’d have to say the most exciting moment of my career was when I did an in-person interview with country music legend Garth Brooks. He was one of the most humble, down to earth, funny men I have ever had the pleasure of talking to. The funniest moment of my career would be when I was at a remote location and we had set up this brand new, awesome blowup tent outside of the business we were at. I was so impressed with myself that I was able to help our brand ambassador get it all set up, but I forgot to tie it down. So, the tent basically turned into a kite and tried to y away. I start koala bear hugging this blowup tent to hold it down while trying to play it cool in front of a crowd of people. Eventually, we got it tied down and everyone had a big laugh. Tying the tent down is the first thing I do after experiencing that. I still giggle every time I think about it.

Q. What does someone with such a busy life do in their down time?
A. I really like writing poetry, refurbishing furniture, finding deals on Facebook marketplace and at antique stores, and going on adventures in my Jeep with my Australian Shepherd, Zeus.

Q. What causes are you passionate about?

A. I have a strong passion for Realities for Children and the Boys & Girls Clubs. These organizations are essential to our community and all communities. We need to not only protect our children, but we also need to provide for them. They are our future. Providing positive environments for kids to connect makes a huge difference in all of our futures. I’m a firm believer that it is in giving that one receives. Giving these kids hope and encouragement is everything.

Q. What does the future hold for you, and what projects are you working on now?
A. Full transparency here: I have no clue what the future holds, but I’d like to keep being an entertainer. I’m currently represented by the talent agency Wilhelmina Denver. I have auditioned and gotten callbacks for a few TV series and films. I am working on a podcast, which is almost ready to launch. I also have a lifestyle show which will be launching soon, as well.

Q. Tell us more about the lifestyle show you will be launching.
A. I will soon be hosting a lifestyle show with NOCO Style magazine, and I couldn’t be more excited. I have been wanting to get involved in a lifestyle show for a while and to have the opportunity to do that with the only regional magazine in Northern Colorado is not only humbling but something I am so excited for.

Editor’s Note: While the lifestyle show is still in the planning stages, we are hoping to launch in the next few months. Look for NOCO Style and Soto around the community!