|
Jack's
Career Capsule
I started when I was only 16 years old at a tiny AM radio station
that could only be heard across the street (on a good day). I grew
up in Oklahoma & worked all over NE Oklahoma including a Tulsa
country station and The Kross. In Christian Radio, I worked
part-time for KSBJ - Houston and KOBC - Joplin, MO. Most of my
experience has been in country radio, but also worked AC, Hot AC &
Oldies.
1.
Personally how do you keep the ministry in the “business”?
Most recently, I picked up a daily
devotional about Leadership. Plus, hearing stories about how lives
were changed through radio really helps keep my focus on why we do
what we do.
2. Overall, how is Christian radio
different today, from 5 years ago?
Better! I have always loved Christian
music, but I worked in the mainstream industry. In the
past...Christian radio was cheesy & packed with a lot of Churchy
talk. While that's good in some circles, it's not much of an
outreach for those outside the church. I think Audience Development
Group should give themselves a pat on the back for being the
industry leader.
3. What do you think are the main
characteristics of today's Christian radio PD?
Mixed passions....a passion for
reaching others through positive music and a passion for good radio.
4. What criteria do you require for a
song to be played on your station?
The song has to fit the mission of
our radio station. Whether the song is charting or not doesn't
concern me. What am I trying to accomplish by playing "this" song?
How will SHE like it? Is it compelling? Just a few questions I ask
myself before adding a new song. Once added, we take a serious look
at the research.
5. What kind of promotions work best for
Christian radio?
We give away cash...lots of cash!
No seriously...we try to find promotions that benefit HER on a
personal level. Typically, SHE connects with promotions that help
others more than just HER.
6. How do you think Christian Record
labels can better serve Christian radio?
Labels need to find ways to put
their artist in front of our listeners more often. The best impact
is when the artist is able to play acoustically in front of 10 to 20
listeners & then hang out for a few minutes. Or a contest where
listeners get a call or visit from their favorite artist.
7. In your opinion what are the biggest
obstacles facing Christian radio today?
Money! It's hard to run the
ministry professionally and with excellence when we rob Peter to pay
Paul.
8. What do you believe is the primary
role of the Christian radio air personality?
To connect with HER. They should talk
WITH her - not AT her. Bottom line - be real.
9. What (if any) Christian radio
stations do you consider as innovators today?
One of the stations I seriously take a
strong look is KDUV. The Crofts along with Shannon seem to be on
their game. I also respect & admire WAY-FM.
10. Where do you see Christian radio in
5 years?
Building cume & getting stronger.
With the continued education (which is a MUST), we should keep
moving forward to develop a product just as professional, but more
compelling than any other station in our market.
Previous Interviews
|
