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Thom's
Career Capsule
I
have been involved in radio and media since high school in upstate
New York, starting in mainstream (most formats you can think of and
a few you wouldn’t dream of). I’ve worked in various capacities
from DJ to account exec to sales manager/development director and
general manager in my career. Prior to working at WAYH /WAY-FM in
Huntsville, Alabama, I worked in Christian/Family TV (WHMB) and
public TV and radio (WFYI) in Indianapolis.
1.
Personally how do you keep the ministry in the “business”?
I try
to keep in mind it’s all from & for Him, pray, stay grounded in a
dynamic church, listen to my wife, and surround myself with a team
at the station that prays for one another. It also helps that the
music we play on WAY-FM speaks to me too!
2. Overall, how is
Christian radio different today, from 5 years ago?
The
music seems to be getting better and more diverse in sound and
message so that more of the artists that we play are crossing over
to mainstream radio, record labels and venues. All good things.
3. What do you think
are the main characteristics of today’s Christian radio PD?
A great
ear for programming (what’s “right” or “off” coming out of the
speakers), talent coach, creative, encouraging, spiritually grounded
and a strategic thinker.
4. What criteria do
you require for a song to be played on your station?
It’s
got to be on a nationally distributed label, fit our format, strong
musically and in its message and our audience responds favorably to
it.
5. What kind of
promotions work best for Christian radio?
For us,
promotions need to have a “heart.” We have had the most success
with promotions that allow our listeners to get involved and help
others in our community. Also helping our listeners to be part of
something they can’t buy is key.
6. How do you think
Christian Record labels can better serve Christian radio?
Do better at returning phone calls and emails in a timely manner.
J
7. In your opinion
what are the biggest obstacles facing Christian radio today?
Small
thinking/vision.
8. What do you
believe is the primary role of the Christian radio air personality?
To
relate to and reflect our target listener.
9. What (if any)
Christian radio stations do you consider as innovators today?
I am
blessed to work with some extremely creative people in the WAY-FM
network of stations. We all challenge each other to do better in a
“positive, upbeat and encouraging” way. Others that come to mind
are: The River in Columbus, WPOZ in Orlando and KSBJ in Houston.
10. Where do you see
Christian radio in 5 years?
Hopefully, better accepted and respected in our markets, better
rated and making more of a positive impact in our communities. We
should be able to compete strongly for the ears and hearts of our
targeted audience because we have a life-changing message,
compelling programming, solid well-researched information on how to
do what we do… & there’s a lot at stake.
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