Marcus Sullivan Interview

Marcus Sullivan
Morning Host
NGEN
Houston

Career Capsule: Originally from Memphis and came to Houston, TX on a football scholarship at the University of Houston. It was there that I fell in love with broadcasting.  Interesting thing is my first day in radio started on 9/11/2001. I’ve held multiple number of radio shows in multiple formats. I left radio briefly for a career in TV as a sports reporter and digital content producer with FOX.  Covered entertainment news for one year with TMZ. While at the number 1 urban radio station in the market, I created “Blessed Beatz” online www.blessedbeatz.com (Christian hip-hop /Gospel show) which still exists. The show took off and did so well IHeart Media added it to it’s weekend line up.  My mission is to bring hop and inspiration to the masses with high energy entertainment mixed with some swag. All in all my goal is to put God on the big stage and syndicate “Marcus In The Morning.” 

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

What’s new at NGEN is we created the coolest, hardest most amazing contest ever. It’s Called “You Got This”. It’s simple…kinda lol. Answer 5 questions and win big! Here’s the catch, the answers can’t be googled. Good luck!  Also, what’s new with me I am the new guy to the line up and I’m loving the team effort and creativity that we all colaborate on daily to make our station and format legendary.

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

To stand out from the crowd, I like to literally become “family” to each and every listener. I think the topics and the energy that I bring each and every morning allows everyone to somehow feel apart of the conversation and show. After the show I spend time talking to listeners on social media one on one. 

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

Best Show advice : Have fun and always just be me. (Don’t try to be “the radio guy”)

Worst Show advice: Not to share who I am in real life. 

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

Totally agree with that statement. Means more chances for listeners to hear the word of GOD, be inspired more and more positive content. 

How would you describe the NGEN audience?

Describing the NGEN audience is difficult. In the past, I think it was marketed as a station for kids becuase of the energy. Today, I notice I get callers from all ages and different walks in life. What I love most is the amount of non-believers that are tuning in daily. This is why it’s important to keep it real with them, not judge or come off perfect or over their heads. 

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

I think Christian radio could improve in the areas of digital content. In the era of social media, podcasting, etc etc I feel like it’s so many opportunities to touch and engage the listeners when I’m off the air. We’re coming up with some cool things in the near future at NGEN. #KeepItLocked ?

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

Biggest obstacles facing Christian Radio. Hmmmm this is a tough one. I’d say exposure. Many people don’t know just how awesome CHH (Christian Hip-hop) music really is. But, we are trying to change that one listener at a time. 

Who are your radio heroes and influences? and why?

My radio hero’s would be Mark Fisher & Anthony Valary. These guys are the Godly men that let me in the broadcasting door back in 2001 and took the chance on a young introverted guy with a speech impediment. For that I’m forever grateful.