I started in 1980 at a small country station in Red Wing Minnesota. While working for the station I was attending Brown Institute Of Broadcasting in Minneapolis, Graduating in 1980. In 1981 I accepted my first full time position with KCMI in Scottsbluff Nebraska. The station had financial problems, so I left and was hired by Mike Heuberger at KTIG in Pequot Lakes Minnesota in 1983. Mike left the station shortly after I arrived to start a new station in Blue Earth Minnesota, KJLY. At that time I was working nights and wanted to be on days, so Mike invited me to come to Blue Earth. I stayed with KJLY for about four or five years when I was hired by Family Life Radio for a position in Jackson Michigan. I stayed with them for about 4-5 years when I accepted the position with American Family radio. I was hired to format the new and upcoming network.I have had or have been involved in  just about every position known to radio, music director, to news person to production person, and now Network Program Manager.

 

1. John you've been with AFR for a long time, how did you wind up there?

 

I saw an add in the NRB magazine for a new start up in Tupelo Mississippi. I was desiring to grow in my abilities and thought this would be a good opportunity to expand my skills.  I never thought I would move to  Mississippi, but here I am 12 years later. I was hired in 1991 to format and organize what has now become one of the largest Christian Radio Networks in the nation. At the time, I didn't realize fully the entire vision that Mr.Wildmon had for American Family Radio. I thought, just a few stations. It didn't take me long to realize it was a lot more then that, we now have close to 200 stations from coast to coast. Our vision is more than just music, we bring a balanced programming day that includes news, and programs. We are currently 70% music, 30% talk. We are not finished growing yet, we have dozens of construction permits not on the air yet.

 

2. How has Christian radio been fulfilling to you as a career?

 

I have met so many nice people in the last 23 years. The artists, the radio promoters ( yes even them!), the listeners, and so many more. Those in radio will be able to relate to this , everyday is  a new challenge with something new, and exciting. The fulfilling part is knowing that for now, I am doing exactly what God wants me to do.

 

 

3. How has being a part of AFR blessed you personally?

 

 

4. How do you juggle being the father of 9 children and PD for a national radio ministry?

 

As Father of 9 children, one of the greatest challenges I face is making sure I don't spend all my time at the station. It would be easy to do.  I have come to understand however, that the work will always be here, and the most important priority in my life is my family. I am delegating now more then ever. I am looking at the things I do, to see if others in the station can take the load off in certain area's. I am constantly evaluating what my duties are here and how I can become more efficient in getting the job done. I also make sure I take time off on a regular basis, for refreshment and perspective. It's a big challenge to balance all of this, I love my family deeply and it also helps to have a great wife who keeps me on track!

 

5. As a programmer how do you keep the ministry aspect in the forefront?

 

That can be a challenge, but each day  I try to remember that there are "real" people" out there listening who need hope and encouragement, and we have the responsibility to make sure we are giving them the best radio possible to meet those needs.

6. When searching for new CCM radio on air talent what do you look for?

 

Someone who is relatable to those who listen.  A great voice is nice, but if you can't connect with those who listen, you won't make it. I know a lot air talents who don't have great voices, but they are great on air because they are "real" and can relate to those who listen.

 

7. Why would someone want to join your team at AFR?

 

Because we are growing and have vision to reach this nation with quality Christian Radio. AFR is more then just music. We want to be a nation that is changed and impacted by Christ.

 

8. What in your opinion is the primary role of the Christian radio air personality today?

 

Relatable, real, genuine, someone the listeners can say, "hey" that's my buddy, that's my friend.

 

 9. Who were your early radio influences in your career?

 

Jon Rivers.... I thought, if only I had his voice..... Mark Ryder.... his talent..... and Wayne Pederson, his leadership skills... wow, I would have it made if I had those qualities...

I do remember as youngster pretending to be on the radio by recording into a cassette tape deck.... those were the days......

 

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

 

Radio has changed so much, I remember spinning not CD's but records when I first got into radio. We now have automation systems, hard drives, satellite, and who knows what else. In 5 years Christian radio will continue to have the impact it's having on peoples lives.... the message does not change. Our challenge will be how can we continue to relate to a nation that in many ways is so far from God.... what will we do to reach the lost, and encourage those who know the Lord to be stronger in the face of a nation that is so far from God.

Radio has to be more then just entertainment, we know the greatest story ever told, hopefully we'll keep on telling it.