1.Tell us about your market and how it is unique?

It's home for me. I've lived here all my life (except for a year in Montana). Indianapolis is a big city but the people make it feel like a small town. I'm not sure if that's unique but I love that about Indy.

 

2. What is the most fulfilling aspect to you personally about Christian radio?

I'm really surprised at the number of people who've opened up to us. Most of my career I've looked at this business as "just radio." It's not. It's more than entertainment. People, including those who've never listened to Christian radio, connect to the music in ways that are so deep. I talked to a lady a few weeks ago who heard WITH HOPE (Steven Curtis Chapman) for the first time and she was in tears. She just wanted to tell us how that song touched her. This type of connection is very fulfilling.

 

3. Here is your chance to testify on behalf of your station...How has God used WISG?

Individually, I think God works through us all. You know, it should be all about him-not us. My hope is that families find us safe, entertaining and comforting. While at the same time, this music might encourage some to explore where they are with their journey.

 

4. What is the criteria that determines if a song receives airplay on your station?

WISG is pretty conservative when it comes to music. We don't play as many songs as some stations. We look at mediabase and see what songs are working in other markets. Internet and call out music testing plays a major role in determining how long a song stays in rotation. CRW and Radio & Records are resources we track too.

 

5. What kind of promotions work best for your station?

We do the FAMILY NAME GAME every day. The prize changes weekly but we get more calls from people asking when we'll say their kids name on the radio. It's strange. The prize isn't a big deal. It's more about hearing their kids name. Proud parents listen to us!

 

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

If you've worked other current based music formats, you know and see the differences. There are fewer labels and fewer people working records. With that being said, we established a relationship with most of the labels before we became a reporter. We starting getting service a week after we signed on. In our situation, I really wouldn't change a thing.

 

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

Being relevant in a mainstream world.

 

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

To entertain. Find common ground between you and your target listener. Be compelling and have fun.

 

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

There are so many great stations today. I like WPOZ in Orlando. Star 99.1 in New York has done some amazing things. Salem's FISH stations have brought our format to so many new people. I also have been listening to Air One online.

 

10. Where do you see Christian radio in 5 years?

WOW! Look what's happened over the last 5 years...If the trend continues, you'll hear the most talented personalities doing Christian radio. The music today is already better than it's ever been. It will surely continue to attract more and more people to our format.