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Rick's
Career Capsule
My
first job involved telemarketing for Farmers Insurance. I attempted
to sell auto insurance over the telephone. After six months, I had
yet to make a single sale!
My radio career began at WCCQ/Chicagoland (NextMedia -- Country) --
Intern
WCFL/Chicagoland (New Life Radio -- Christian Hot AC) -- Weekends,
Nights, and eventually interim afternoons. WCIC/Peoria (New Life
Radio -- Christian AC) -- Afternoons & Assistant Music Director to
Music Director to Assistant Program Director
Presently, I’m at WQFL/Rockford (Christian Communications Network --
Christian CHR, Christian ACHR) -- Afternoons & Program Director &
working weekend duties at WUSN/Chicago (CBS Radio — Country).
1.
Personally how do you keep the ministry in the “business”?
This is something
that I’ve struggled with. It seems like there’s hardly enough time
to get the ‘business’ done. However, I’ve come to the conclusion
that the ministry side of the business isn’t just praying as a
team. It’s also not just reading through scripture together as a
team. Ministry can be so much more. Ministry is keeping your door
open and allowing the frustrated sales guy vent when he’s
down. Ministry can take place while eating lunch with another in the
break room verses working through lunch in my office.
2. Overall, how
is Christian radio different today, from 5 years ago?
More people than
ever are listening! In my opinion, another Christian radio
“revolution” began five years ago. In addition, those outside of
the CCM industry are watching us much more closely. The mainstream
world is paying attention to what we have.
3. What do you
think are the main characteristics of today’s Christian radio PD?
One word:
Genuine. When I talk one on one with other programmers, I see a
common ground, a real desire to see lives changed through our
signals. The love for the art of radio and our ministry mission is
alive and well!
4. What criteria
do you require for a song to be played on your station?
I first check the
sound. Is it modern and fresh? Then I check lyrics. Just as I
don’t want my jocks to speak Christianeese, I also don’t want to be
playing lyrics full of Christianeese.
5. What kind of
promotions work best for Christian radio?
I find that many
promotions done on Christian radio stations lack cume and TSL
building components. The best promotion for Christian radio is one
that attempts to increase listenership and time spent
listening. Then we have to ask, “what’s in it for her?”
6. How do you
think Christian Record labels can better serve Christian radio?
I love PromoOnly!
However, many times, I often can’t find the information I’m looking
for. Please don’t forget to complete all of the fields. Song
lyrics are handy. Album title is needed. Also, please don’t forget
to include your contact information, especially if you’re submitting
an independent release.
I do have to
commend the technology side of the labels for encouraging their
artists to take an active role in their websites. Artist blogs have
become very handy in preparing for our air shifts. =)
7. In your
opinion what are the biggest obstacles facing Christian radio today?
We’re spread too
thin. The “talent pool” is very dry.
8. What do you
believe is the primary role of the Christian radio air personality?
In my opinion, the
role really depends on which format the air personality is working.
However, the role of friend seems to transcend every format. Being
transparent and even vulnerable at times on-air, seems to go a long
way.
9. What (if any)
Christian radio stations do you consider as innovators today?
Hands down, Mike
Couchman and the gang at WAYK/Grand Rapids. I’m a huge fan of the
Top 40 format. I love the fresh programming style that Couchman
has.
10. Where do you
see Christian radio in 5 years?
I’m so excited to
see what’s to come! Five years from now, I think we’ll see more
corporate (CBS, Clear Channel, etc) stations on our reporting list.
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