Danae Songy Interview

Danae Songy
Program Director/mornings
KJRN
Keene/Fort Worth

Career Capsule: I never intended to work in radio, but I always worked at the campus radio stations in college. In undergrad I worked at 88.3 when it was KJCR as a student for 3 years as a co-host, Music/Program and Underwriting Director. In Berrien Springs in graduate school, I worked as a student at 90.7 WAUS in classical radio as evening drive and Music Director. This all set the stage for where I am today as Program Director and Morning Show Host at 88.3 The Journey KJRN. Collectively I’ve (accidently) worked in radio 11 years.

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

In 2017 we put up a new tower to reach our listeners farther out. Summer of 2019 we moved from a temporary building from the 70’s that was rotting from the ground up, to an old doctor’s office that we renovated just across town. Since we are owned by a Christian University, I have the joy of working with students and teaching them how to do radio. News about me: my husband Jerrod is a pastor and we are going to Israel and Jordan in September.

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

Since we are very small (I’m the only live show and only full time employee) I asked God about this. I realized that I can’t give away cruises or have tons of events, BUT I can talk about Jesus in a non-threatening friendly manner and be a companion to those listening and God is constantly blessing while I’m not looking. So I spend most of my show talking about Him and where he’s showing up in peoples lives.

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

Best advice: It’s all about them (Michael Agee) Worst: they aren’t listening to hear you, they only care about the music (I won’t say who said this)

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

Yes, because it makes us better as we listen to each other and get ideas. And we have a work to do as Christians to love and care for each other. As Tenth Avenue North would say “No Man Is An Island”

What is the ONE thing you must have every day to do your job/show?

Prayer time before my show (more than just a few minutes) and Jasmine Green Tea!

Where will future Christian radio air talent come from?

I believe our future air talent will come from all walks of life to better connect with people from all walks of life. In other words I don’t believe that there is a certain pedigree to have in order to be a radio talent. I never trained for it, but I know how to connect and that’s a huge part of what you need.

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

Honesty. John Hull hit the nail on the head in his article this summer on honesty “on air” and with donors. I believe Christian Radio needs to be mindful of not “being like the world” in regards to on-air, business (how we treat each other) and money (how we raise/spend it). God might call one station to grow and another to stay and not try to “be all things to all people”.

Who are your radio heroes and influences? and why?

My favorite DJ of all time just retired, she was a classical DJ of 101.1 WRR Nancy Brunson. When she was on, I always breathed a sigh of relief because she was IN the car with me. So personable, informed and I took many of her vibes with me into Christian Radio. I’m sad she’s retired.