Chalmer's Career Capsule
Chalmer began his professional radio career as a part-time weekend talent at WCQR in Johnson City, TN. From there, he went on to serve as Production Director, Evenings, Assistant Program Director/Music Director, Afternoons, and Program Director. In September of 2008, Chalmer was hired as the Program Director at 88.3 The Wind, Springfield, MO. In 2010, Chalmer was moved to serving in the capacity of Station Manager for KWND. He is currently serving as the General Manager for 88.3 The Wind (CCM) and 89.1 KWFC (Southern Gospel.)

1. Tell us whet's new at KWND, news changes etc?

One thing that has changed at 88.3 The Wind is our need. We NEED a boots on the ground, strong leader with passion, talent, personality, ease at creating relationships, and strategic thinking that can make an immediate impact in the Ozarks. It is an amazing and unique opportunity! 

88.3 The Wind has this amazing foundation that has been built for almost 20 years. A tradition of loving, serving, and connecting with our neighbors - a tradition that has allowed to stay in the top tier of radio stations in the market, and beyond. We've done radio well. Now is the time to do LIFE excellently alongside of our friends. We desire to find someone ready to have fun, and take us to the next level.

2. What is the best programming advice you've been given? The worst?

Best Programming Advice: Always be you.   

Worst programming advice:  Set it and forget it.

3. Regarding your career, what are you most proud of? 

I have to say I'm most humbled by the faith and confidence that has been placed in me to become a Station Manager after Ben Birdsong passed away in 2010. I adore leading the 88.3 The Wind team, and now leading the 89.1 KWFC team, too!

4. What is the ONE thing you must have everyday to do your job?

A cup of God's Nectar - Locally roasted, high quality (snobby,) preferably single origin, black coffee -- Pour Over (V60 or Chemex,) Kalita, or French Press -- and by that I mean, a Galatians 5:22 perspective and vision for my day.

5. Where will future Christian radio air talent come from?

The future of Christian radio will come simply from the relationships that we are forging right now. The future will be attracted to what we do as you show how amazing it is. It might be the kiddo that adores listening to your station, and grows up with you. It might be the college student you meet at a Passion conference. It might be a Mom wanting to speak into the life of others. It might be someone ready for a second career, or someone ready to step down from Mainstream radio. The call to Christian radio can happen to anyone at any time. If we have the eyes to recognize those people, and the selflessness to let them explore this avenue, the future is secure.

6. Do you feel syndication is good or bad for Christian radio?

Yes. :)

Syndication can be a huge value for stations! So much is already done for you. Great content, and amazing talent that can help set your station apart from others in the market with less of the expense, and less office politics (maybe.) 

The flip side is that you don't have those people (that your listeners know) with you when you go to connect locally. One other thing that can be a downside to syndication --- many times, even if there are local mentions, breaks, etc... - you miss colloquialisms that make your region, your region...because they don't live, work, worship, and play there.  

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

The largest obstacle we face is ourselves. We doubt ourselves. We lack the faith in our God-given abilities and talent. Then, we consume each other. We react instead of respond. We hurt each other in the name of selfishness and self-preservation. We hide and wait instead of embrace. We lose sight of vision. We forget the art of love and kindness. We strain to remember why we do what we do. 

There is GREAT news in that, though. We already have our solution - Yes, in Jesus Christ, and in each other. Let's get out of the way - Love God with every fiber of our being, and love each other with the same kind of passion that we have for doing things for ourselves. 

8. Who are your radio heroes and influences? and why?

WAY-FM in Nashville - Doug Griffin/Karla Lawson - Bob Ausburg, and his team had the audacity to put a translator in Cleveland, TN, so that we could have Christian Radio. That's how I fell in love with it! Then, as a young college student, I was made a part of that team as an intern. That summer, I watched (and helped) make an amazing morning show happen, as well as get my hands dirty in promotions, concerts, and whatever they would let me do. 

Ben Birdsong - I adore this man. Grateful for the short amount of time that we had together. If you knew Ben when he walked this Earth, you know why he is one of my heroes. It is tough to put into words, but he was one of the best examples of the hands and feet of Christ.

Jason Sharp - This guy took me under his wing when I began professionally, and taught me as much as he could...and now, he still teaches me. So grounded. Such a leader. Thank you, Jesus, for Jason Sharp. The true definition of a mentor and friend.

When I grow up I want to be Jim Campbell (Pres/CEO of RTN) and Scott Herrold. They both are such passionate visionaries who 'get it.' I aim to have Jim's spunk, excitement, and desire to see lives transformed for Jesus through this incredible medium we know as Christian Radio. Combine that with just half an ounce of the talent, creativity, and leadership that Scott Herrold's bones contain, I'll be doing something right.

8.