Raj Baddhan is the Chief Executive of Lyca Media and has over 15 years of radio broadcasting experience. Previously, he headed the Midland’s leading Asian radio station, Sabras Radio where he held the post of Director. Prior to Sabras Radio, Raj worked with Radio XL in Birmingham and ZEE Radio in London. His wealth of broadcasting experience has led to revenues increase at Sabras Radio, with award-winning output that has taken the station to a new level during his 14-year tenure at the brand.
Raj is also the founder of leading UK Asian media, BizAsiaLive.com, which launched in 2005 & remains the UK’s only Asian media news portal. With a team of over 10 writers globally, BizAsiaLive.com is the only stop for Asian media industry news and reports. He completed graduated in Media, Business & Communication at University of Central England.
Raj’s interests include keeping fit, travelling, and networking with like for like individuals.
1. Which place, or city or country do you most feel at home in?
New York! Even though I was born in Birmingham and have worked in Leicester and now London, there's something very special about the American city. I've been there half a dozen times and the love I have for the culture, ambience & people there, is just something else!
2. What are your proudest achievements?
Quite a few. On top of the list is being appointed the CEO of Lyca Media, one of the biggest Asian media brands in London, followed by my award-winning success at Sabras Radio and starting up the UK's only Asian media news website, BizAsiaLive.com. Other smaller achievements like the ample amount of love I receive only with well over 150k followers.
3. What inspires you?
My biggest inspiration is seeing the journey of my seniors. Watching their rise and fall, has not only motivated me but I've also learned the rights and wrongs of running various businesses.
4. What has been biggest obstacle in your career?
I think my own compliances. At my previous work, I had become too comfortable with the daily running’s that I had forgotten about the challenges that I enjoyed when I first took over. It's taught me to remember the challenges that drives one person in a successful career. Also, never be afraid about taking a risk when it comes to new opportunities.
5. Who has been the biggest influence on your career to date?
Chris Moyles! Not only is a great broadcaster but a fantastic entertainer! I used to listen to him religiously when he was on Radio 1. I don’t get to listen to him much now on Radio X but he certainly inspired me when I was studying media at university.
6. What is the best aspect about your current role?
The best part is working commercial brands that I had not worked with at my previous station. Now that I have relocated to London, having that direct connect with clients & vendors will be a much more enjoyable experience in turning around my stations over the next few months.
7. And the worst?
Being in London - The travel! Luckily, I do not live too far from the studios so that is not an issue. However, travelling outside the office for meetings, is quite something! Grrr!
8. What are your long-term goals?
Making Lyca Radio and Dilse Radio the most listened to Asian radio brands in London & beyond!
9. If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?
I'd change the perception of media studies - a subject that is often frowned at! So many aspiring individuals up and down the country struggle to find work in the media industry because of the lack of information or help. Opening the door to further training would be a great start. Let's together help our fellow Asians in gaining work at big media institutes.
10. If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why?
I'm quite into politics these days - I think someone from India - Indira or Rajiv Gandhi - There would be quite a few (hard-hitting) questions from my side to pass the time on this desert island!
