Ric McClary Interview 5-29-17

Ric McClary
General Manager
WZFJ/KTIG
Pequot Lakes, MN

Career Capsule: 36 years in broadcasting. Last 16 years in Christian media. I have worked in MN, WA, UT, OH, VT. and have done it all except full time sales. News Director, feature reporter, morning show host, mid-day host, talk show host, news anchor, PD, Ops Mgr and GM. Now GM for three full time FM’s in Central Minnesota.

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

We are seeing a steady growth of listeners and support for both of our formats in the last 2 ½ years. Still lots of room to grow.

What are some Christian Radio issues that you find are unique to your market (station/network)?

Issues? The only unique thing for me to get used to is that our major fundraising is done in the summer. Primarily because we see a huge influx of people heading to the resorts and summer cabins in our area. Estimates are that we have about 100,000 more people in our listening area between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Hence, our sharathon is done in July.

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

Best advice given to me included some “salty language” but to paraphrase, “don’t let the ‘naysayers’ bring you down”. Worst…stay away from Christian media. I was told in broadcast school that my career would be stunted if I got involved in Christian radio. Actually God has had me on a “wild ride” full of excitement and challenges these past 16 years.

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

Don’t agree. More is not always better. Radio done poorly is not a good thing. Just having a signal does not give you the right to do bad radio. I’ve heard bad Christian radio in all market sizes. If you can’t do radio with excellence, get out!

What is the ONE thing you must have everyday to do your show?

One thing? A voice that is pleasant to listen to. Okay, plenty of coffee also but that’s two things.

Where will future Christian radio air talent (programming/on air) come from?

If I knew I would start a job placement business.

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

Board of Directors that think they need to micro-manage. B. A staff that is afraid to be themselves.

Who are your radio heroes and influences? and why?

Rush Limbaugh (tenacity) Dick Clark (longevity) Chris Fabry (Compassionate Intelligence)