I've tried to get Colton McGrath on the air for about a month. Then a surprise visit played out better than I could have planned out!

The American Idol contestant had stopped by our sister station, Fun 107, for an interview, and then came down the hall to appear on my show.

Colton described his musical message of hope and diversity. Up until last year, Colton was Cassidy McGrath. He's now drawing national attention not only as a contestant on television's legendary singing competition, but also as a transgender B.M.C. Durfee High School student.

In this interview, you'll hear him talk about his journey as a competitor on American Idol and how he took the opportunity to share his story with a national audience.

What did Colton learn from this experience? He says, if you feel stuck, there is hope. It was also the most challenging vocally, as he tried to get through the demanding routine with a scratchy throat from a cold that turned out to be laryngitis.

If there's one thing I learned from Colton's unexpected appearance, it is to let life catch you by surprise!

Phil Paleologos is the host of the Phil Paleologos Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Contact him at phil@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @PhilPaleologos. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.

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