Tom's Career Capsule
I began my career in 1985, working at my college radio station in Nashville, TN (WNAZ – the ONLY Christian music station in Nashville at the time and now on the block to be sold!).  I also worked at a small, family-owned AM station in Nashville during my college days.  After graduation, I worked briefly in Memphis, TN and then moved on to WFCJ in Dayton, Ohio and WTLT in Columbus, Ohio.  In 1991, I began doing afternoons and promotions for WNLT in Cincinnati.  After that, I spent 14 years at WMHK in Columbia, SC before moving to 106.9 The Light in September, 2006.

1. Congratulations on all the recent awards given to WMIT including Marconi Religious station of the year from the NAB… What can you most attribute the recent station success to?

I think it’s a “Who” not a “what”.  There’s no question that God has blessed this radio ministry.  We strive to honor Him with excellence in what we do every day and He has honored us with this recognition. 

2. How can Christian radio programmers cultivate new air talent?

When you encounter a talented young person who has passion, give them the chance to develop their skills.  Passion is rare but the skills can be taught.

3. What part does social networking play in WMIT marketing?

I think one of the keys to using social networking effectively is not only to provide a way for the station and the listeners to interact but for the station to provide a platform for the listeners to interact with each other.  We’ve been able to gain some valuable insight into our listener’s world through the interactions we’ve seen take place on our Facebook page.

4. What criteria do you require for a song to be played on WMIT?

A song needs to have solid lyrics, a clear message and technical excellence.  Of course, it must also be a stylistic fit and it must help accomplish the goals of the radio station.

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

I think the best promotions are the ones that give the listeners an opportunity to get involved and help others.  We’ve seen a tremendous outpouring of support for everything from collecting baby items to supporting international missions.

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

Provide excellent, compelling and relevant new music in the highest technical quality possible.  We’ve come a long way in the past several years but I think there’s still room for improvement.  From a relationship standpoint, all the labels we work with do a great job. 

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

Keeping up with rapidly changing technology and only venturing into this field with a clear strategic purpose.  Being there just to be there may be more harmful than beneficial.

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

To encourage the listener by integrating faith and life in real, relevant and compelling ways.

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

I know the economy is tough but so many radio companies seem to be shooting themselves in the foot by drastically reducing investment in their air talent and the marketing of their product.  I think that presents a huge opportunity for Christian radio.  If we can raise the bar of excellence and relevance and capitalize on the opportunity to connect with people who aren’t finding that connection elsewhere, I think we’ll have a chance to reach more people than ever before over the next few years.

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