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Chuck's Career
Capsule
First radio job, part-time overnights, was in Cincinnati (my
hometown), in 1975. Started programming in 1980. Country, AC, CHR,
News/Talk, Oldies, even Classical until 2002. That was when God
called me to KLTY Dallas where I had the opportunity to work with
the amazing team there for seven years (JP, Frank, Starlene, Bonnie,
Mike P, Tony, Andrea, Perri, Hudson, Click, John B, Sparky, Jack and
everyone there - THANK YOU!). Also was National PD/Brand Manager of
Salem Fish stations from 2003-2009. Now President of Finney Media,
helping grow audience and outreach for CCM stations and other media
organizations worldwide.
1.
How has Christian radio evolved over the last few years?
We're reaching
many more people with the truth. If you go back just ten years, the
audience was just a fraction of what it is today. And the quality of
what's coming out of the speakers is dramatically more listenable!
2. How has the current economic situation affected Christian Radio?
There are so many
people hurting because of the downturn. And not just in Christian
Radio or radio as a whole. A lot of prayer is needed - for
marriages, kids, lives, perspective, revival. Christian Radio has
been hurt less than secular formats who are not investing in their
product, people or promotion. The fields have never been more ready
for sowing Christian radio and reaching more people than now. LOTS
of opportunity for us to grow.
3. Is there anything individuals can do to make themselves more
valuable to their stations?
Pray. Learn how
to do everything and don't whine. Be ready to do things you never
thought you'd do or ever want to do. 1 Peter 2:19-21.
4. Do you see any music trends emerging in Christian radio?
More stations
focused on playing the songs the listener loves. More opportunities
for independent artists than ever.
5. How do you think Christian Record labels can better serve
Christian radio?
They do a
tremendous job now and their mission has never been tougher. JB,
Mark G., Steve F, Grant, Steve S, Andrea, Dan, Grayson, Tamara, MJ,
Chrisand everyone else who works hard everyday at this, y'all rock!
7. In your opinion what are the biggest obstacles facing Christian
radio today?
Thinking too
little of God's ability. We serve an amazing God who can do
anything. Seriously, our thinking is so small and He is so big.
8. What Christian radio stations do you consider as innovators
today?
KVNE and KGLY in
Tyler/Longview. Troy Kriechbaum, Mike Harper, Gary Lesniewski and
their team have quietly and diligently turned those two stations
into an even more amazing outreach in the past two years.
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