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Ben's
Career Capsule
Ben started doing radio in 1981 with a weekend shift
on Full Gospel WDAL.in his hometown of Meridian, MS. From there he
moved to WQFL, Rockford where he served as PD…then to WHLO,
Akron…and on to WMER, Meridian where he served as Station
Manager. In 1991 he joined Radio Training Network as morning show
host and PD for WLFJ, Greenville. In 1995 Ben transferred to
Springfield, MO where he became station manager of 88.3 The Wind and
did mornings for 10 years. About a year ago he moved himself to
afternoons and soon will move to middays.
1.
Personally how do you keep the ministry in the “business”?
That's pretty easy since we are part of a network
that has ministry as the bottom line. Our network president, Jim
Campbell, holds me accountable for ministry just as much as he does
for funding. So, each day our staff gathers for prayer. In that
time we always submit the station to God anew. I often remind
myself that when I stand before God and he asked me what I did with
the radio station he gave me stewardship over, He won't be impressed
with me quoting large Arbitron numbers, telling of great promotions,
or how many songs we helped get to number one on the charts. He
looks at changes lives.
2. Overall, how is Christian radio different today,
from 5 years ago?
I think we have simply become better radio. If you
are a plumber, you need to understand the principle that water runs
down hill, it doesn't matter if you are a Christian plumber...it
still runs down hill. Sound radio practices and programming apply,
even if you’re doing if for the Lord. I think Christian radio has
learned more about sound radio principles.
3. What do you think are the main characteristics of
a Christian radio GM?
First and foremost I would hope his goal is to
glorify God. He can do that through sound leadership practices,
good planning, solid financial stewardship, and building a good
team, but those are a means to the end
not the end in
themselves.
4. What ways or methods do you think work best to
keep your staff motivated?
Different staff members are motivated in different
ways. A good manager must get to know each staff member and find
out what motivates them personally. One method does not work for
all but a decent rate of pay is always a good start.
5. What kind of promotions work best for Christian
radio?
We try to do promotions that are relevant to our
target audience, that are fun for those that don't participate as
well as those who do, and have an positive impact on lives and/or
our community.
6. How do you think Christian Record labels can
better serve Christian radio?
We always want more but from my perspective, I think
that they are doing a great job. Let me say a big "Thank you" to
the record companies in public. We appreciate you. Keep sending
the great music.
7. In your opinion what are the biggest obstacles
facing Christian radio today?
The plethora of electronic media available and on the
horizon. We must find ways to be relevant and compelling to the
next generation.
8. What do you believe is the primary role of the
Christian radio air personality?
A Christian Radio personality should seek to develop
a relationship with their audience and give relevant information
that can entertain, inform, inspire or even impact the listeners
9. What (if any) Christian radio stations do you
consider as innovators today?
If 88.3 The Wind is not an innovator, I need to
resign and have a better leader come in and take over. Every
Christian station should seek to be innovators in their community.
10. Where do you see Christian radio in 5 years?
My hope is that we will be stronger and better. I
hope we can improve as much in the next 5 years as we have in the
last.
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