We’re
Ohio’s other big city, we’re often overshadowed by
Cleveland & Cincinnati. Most people outside of our
market are surprised that we have a population of 1.4+
million. The area has a fairly young population much
of that is because Columbus basically an overgrown
college town it’s home to over a half dozen colleges
and universities.
2. What is the most fulfilling aspect to you
personally about Christian radio?
The
privilege of making a difference in a person’s life.
3. How do you personally keep the ministry in the
business?
Good
ministry is good business, and the opposite is true. A
lot of it is working on my attitude and continually
learning from the good examples of others.
4. What is the criteria that determines if a song
receives airplay on your station?
We get so
many more great songs than we can play. There are many
times that the decision comes down to what texture or
mood will work best to help us maintain a balanced
play list.
5. What kind of promotions work best for your station?
Those that
help to cultivate relationships, our initiatives
include working with key churches in the area, and
contests that emphasize family relationships or that
help our listeners spend more time together with their
loved ones.
6. How do you think Christian Record labels can better
serve Christian radio?
I’ve been
very impressed with initiatives that many labels have
taken lately. I think we’re turning a corner as an
industry that we’re working together as members of a
team with a larger cause.
7. In your opinion what are the biggest obstacles
facing Christian radio today?
Our own
short sightedness, we need to be ready to re-invent
how we serve our audience. We’ve got to embrace
change, or we’ll be choking on irrelevance.
8. What do you believe is the primary role of the
Christian radio air personality today?
To be open
and vulnerable, they have to be able to share honestly
about their everyday life. Air talent has the amazing
ability to build relationships that bridge the gap
between people that have never listened to our
stations and the amazing message that the music we
play contains.
9. What (if any) other Christian radio stations do you
consider as innovators today?
Spirit
105.3 Seattle, Z88.3 Orlando, WBGL Champaign.
10. Where do you see Christian radio in 5 years?
I think
we’ll see more large groups like Clear Channel
dipping their toes into the water. I think the future
is bright and our best days are ahead.