Bill Bumpas Interview

Bill Bumpas
Vice President of Programming
Encouragement Media Group
Tyler, TX

Career Capsule: I’ve been in radio since 1991.  I worked numerous positions at KCBI-Dallas in a 14-year span including a stint as station manager for a sister station in SW Oklahoma.  I also served as producer of the weekly radio program “Sharing the Victory” from the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. I’ve spent many years doing Christian news reporting as well as working at secular news talk stations.  Before coming to Tyler, I spent several years doing freelance audio and public relations work.

Bill, tell us what’s new at KVNE… news, changes, & with YOU… etc?

We, at Encouragement Media Group, are launching two new radio stations in East Texas: Fuzión, Spanish Christian music and The Well, Bible teaching. Target launch date for Fuzión is January 17, 2020, and sometime in February for The Well.

Christian Radio has become very competitive… what do you do to stand out from the crowd?

We focus on playing the songs people want to hear and give special attention on what we do in between the songs.

What is the best programming/show advice you’ve been given? The worst?

Best advice: It’s not about you and your preferences. Pay attention to what people want to hear.

Worst: I don’t know if it’s the worst, but it’s funny: “The key to radio is sincerity.  Once you’ve faked that, you’ve got it made!”

Some say more Christian stations in a market the better, do you agree with that, why or why not?

I’m not sure, I guess it depends.  But there’s nothing wrong with competition and it keeps you on your toes.

How would you describe the KVNE audience?

They enjoy humor, are very generous and want to be encouraged as they grow spiritually.

In what area do you believe Christian Radio needs to improve most?

We need to be bold in the calling that God has given us and not be afraid to take risks.

Generally speaking to the industry what are the biggest obstacles facing Christian radio?

I think one of the challenges will be fighting the temptation to keep the status quo.  We need to be wary of stagnation and lethargy.

Who are your radio heroes and influences? and why?

Ron Harris, president of MEDIAlliance International and formerly of KCBI; Tom Rogeberg, formerly of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, In Touch Ministries and Coral Ridge Ministries Media.

I learned from both of them how to be a Christian broadcast professional and how to humbly follow the Lord’s direction.