Chris's Career Capsule
Grew up in fabulous Las Vegas. After graduating Harvard, it turned out that a career as a showgirl (clothed, of course!) was far more exciting. Did that for a while, served as Las Vegas' mayor until the radio thing opened up. OK. NONE OF THAT HAPPENED.  I started at SOS (then one local station) in 1974, where I drive to work every day still. Guess it's going to work out...

1. Personally how do you keep the ministry in the business?

Man, what a struggle. Being as disciplined about spending time in The Word as I am about other things is tough. Am I as concerned about the strength, peace and clarity that come when I read the Bible and listen to God as I am about the next most disciplined thing I do? The cause and effect are amazing, and I can tell a huge difference when I skip it.

2. Overall, how is Christian radio different today, from 5 years ago?

One of the things I love most is the increase in seeing Christian radio show up as leaders in their local ratings. The format is reaching more listeners all the time.

3. What do you think are the main characteristics of a Christian radio GM?

Among the most important characteristics should be a solid understanding of the direction you're leading the department heads and staff who are looking to you for clarity. Know your target listener almost as well as the air staff does. Pay attention every day to where that person is moving in their interests and concerns.
Recognize the people on your team who share the station goals and show them they're appreciated in as many ways as possible.

4. What ways or methods do you think work best to keep your staff motivated?

Being willing to work WITH them on a challenging task to get to the pay-off; being as specific as possible in telling them what they're doing right; showing them that you don't care about punishing them for the inevitable mistakes that happen, but you'll look for any way to help them not repeat that mistake.

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

The kind that make it easy for listeners to make a difference in their community.

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

Wow...I just don't even have any complaints!

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

Learning from our peers and industry leaders without losing our distinctives. Recognizing an idea as brilliant and right and making it come to life at your station without making the mistake of falling into group-think...

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

To be a friend to the listener, to be obsessed with understanding the target listener as much as possible and to follow the specific direction that the PD gives in reaching the goals of station leadership.

9. What (if any) Christian radio stations do you consider as innovators today?

Those that are reaching great numbers of people. I think you have to be innovative to succeed in that. Stations like WPOZ, KCMS, KLTY, KTIS. And I'm always amazed by what's happening at KSBJ.

 

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