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Mike's
Career Capsule
In
1996, during my final semester of college, I got an internship at
KLTY (then at 94.1 on the dial). My first day on the job included
calling all 54 Metroplex Tom Thumb's to make sure they had an ample
supply of KLTY bumper stickers. Fun stuff. That quickly turned
into a part-time gig working in Promotions and running boards
overnight. In 1997 I took a job in Promotions at 103.7 KVIL. I
also became the Technical Director for the Dallas Cowboys broadcasts
from 1997 - 2005 (Go Cowboys!). I eventually moved into the
Programming Department and was the APD from 2004 to last December
when I came "home" to 94.9 KLTY to be the MD and APD.
1.
Personally how do you keep the ministry in the “business”?
It's
nice to work in an environment where I'm asked that sort of
question. I am where I'm at because of God. And because of that
reason, I'm constantly seeking His counsel on any number of issues
that may effect my day.
2. Overall, how is Christian radio different today,
from 5 years ago?
It
appeals to a larger audience, not to mention it sounds much better!
Thank goodness for the Chris Tomlin's, Mercy Me's and Third Day's of
the Christian radio world.
3. What do you think are the main characteristics of
today's Christian radio PD?
You've
got to be willing to trust everything you do to God. We all make
mistakes but I can't tell you how many times my first instinct to do
something got me nowhere. When I finally stopped spinning my wheels
and brought it to God, He instructed me on the way to handle it.
You've also got to have an ability to work with your talent
and coach them to become more relatable to your audience. And
you've got to be able to maintain a positive work environment for
your staff. Praising your employees for a job well done goes a long
way.
4. What criteria do you require for a song to be
played on your station?
Is the
song glorifying to God and redemptive in nature? And of course,
it's gotta sound good. Other than that, there really aren't any
other rules.
5. What kind of promotions work best for Christian
radio?
Family
oriented promotions. If there's a fun way to entertain our
listeners and their families, we're there.
6. How do you think Christian Record labels can better serve
Christian radio?
Overall, they are doing a great job. The only thing I would suggest
is getting to know whom you are servicing. I can't tell you how
many CD's I get each week that are of a totally different
format. Just because the guy on the record is playing the bagpipes
to the tune of "Awesome God" doesn't mean it's right for our
station.
7. In your opinion what are the biggest obstacles
facing Christian radio today?
Stereotyping. Oh, you work for that Christian radio station? They
play that old, boring, churchy music right? And reaching people
who wouldn't ordinarily listen to KLTY.
8. What do you believe is the primary role of the
Christian radio air personality?
To
be positive, relatable, uplifting and a friend to the listener. If
you're not genuine, listeners will see right through you.
9. What (if any) Christian radio stations do you
consider as innovators today?
The
Fish in Atlanta. KBIQ in Colorado Springs. KSBJ in Houston.
10. Where do you see Christian radio in 5 years?
Reaching an even larger cume and impacting more lives for the
better. Hopefully God's plan includes me to be part of it!
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