Malachi's "Beautiful History"
Malachi got his start in radio at Arkansas news talk station, KUOA as sports director and account executive.  He then moved onto KLRC to serve as afternoon drive host and underwriting/promotions director.  Malachi has also served at The Joy FM network in Florida as the Director of Business and Ministry Development.  He joined Spring Arbor University in Michigan to serve as General Manager of the SAU Radio network that features HOME.fm which plays a unique blend of family friendly mainstream and Christian music.  He was recently promoted to Executive Director and added some development duties in the university realm as well

1. Personally how do you keep the ministry in the “business”?

I surround myself with staff members and friends that can help me keep the focus on where it should be.  I think it’s important to do take time to do some spiritual development together as a staff.  We are currently reading Henri Nouwen’s “In the Name of Jesus.”  This allows us to discuss and reflect on Christian leadership topics together and grow as a staff.

2. Overall, how is Christian radio different today, from 5 years ago?

Technology has greatly impacted radio as a whole. From the overall sound of a station, to the way in which we connect with our listeners, radio is continuing to evolve and change. This will continue to be the case and we have to embrace change without losing who we are in the process.

3. What do you think are the main characteristics of a Christian radio GM?

A good GM is someone who is a great listener. You have to be able to listen and then assess the needs of your staff, listeners and constituents. You need to lead by example, set clear expectations and then be willing to follow up and hold people accountable.

4. What ways or methods do you think work best to keep your staff motivated?

By being transparent with them. I believe communication is key in motivating a staff.  For me, I try to over communicate with my staff to allow full buy in with what we are doing.  They may not always agree 100%, but as long as they were provided a chance to be heard and communicated with, I believe the rest will take care of itself.  I always try to look at things from their perspective since I’ve been on the other end and experienced both great and poor communication.  I think lack of communication and transparency is a catalyst of dysfunction.

5. What kind of promotions work best for Christian radio?

Interactive ones.  It has to be more than just a one-sided relationship.  The more we provide an avenue for our listeners to interact with us and our artists, the better.

6. How do you think Christian Record labels can better serve Christian radio?

Don’t forget about us little guys who aren’t a reporting station. I understand their need to pay close attention to the stations who report to various outlets, but I think this causes stations who don’t report to be ignored at times.

7. In your opinion what are the biggest obstacles facing Christian radio today?

Lack of resources to invest in young talent. I grow more concerned about the lack of younger talent (both on-air and off) within radio each year. We really need to invest in developing the next generation of radio talent. They will be the ones that help us to reach their peers in new ways and help make radio relevant to a younger demographic.

8. What do you believe is the primary role of the Christian radio air personality?

To be a connection point. Radio personalities have the unique privilege to come along side listeners and impact their day for the better. We can make a positive difference in the lives of others on a large scale and platform.

9. What (if any) Christian radio stations do you consider as innovators today?

I’ve always appreciated and respected what the WAY-FM network is about and accomplishes. Spirit 105.3 in Seattle is awesome and KLRC in NW Arkansas continues to do top notch radio.

10. Where do you see Christian radio in 5 years?

I hope we see more emphasis on developing music and programming that is appealing to a broader audience that includes younger listeners. I believe technology will continue to evolve and affect the way we do radio on a daily basis. I hope we see stations continue to reach outside of a Christian audience and reach people that don’t have a personal relationship with Christ.

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