The Christian Radio Homepage

Jims' Career Capsule

I'm celebrating my 30 year anniversary in Christian and mainstream broadcasting and have done most everything from jocking, to sales and management. My passion however is music and most especially CCM.I really feel this is the best radio gig in the world! I also host a morning show on WABS/Wash DC and a 6-hour weekday show on XM32 The Fish.

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

XM's coast to coast coverage offers the unique challenge of
assembling the most massive and inclusive CCM "library" in the country!
Our customers are paying for more depth and variety and it's our job to
provide it without sacrificing familiarity. At The Fish XM we want to
cast the widest net possible, while remaining focused on our P1 39/40
year-old female listener.

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

I can't put into words how extremely gratifying it is to be able to
serve God and give back something in return for all He's done for me!
I'm both humbled and privileged to have the opportunity to encourage,
uplift, and minister through great Christian music. Changed lives is
what it's all about!

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

At The Fish, we play the hits that fit. If a Christian artist has a
song with a great hook and melody, and it blesses because of it's
redemptive nature, I'm "all ears."

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

The Christian record labels do a great job servicing us, thank you!
Most everyone has been cordial and responsive to our needs. I would
encourage greater solicitation of "radio" when it comes to the singles
release decision process. (Not a sermon, just a thought!)

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

Building industry credibility is essential. Our first priority
should be to win back all those Christian listeners we've lost and are
still losing in some cases to mainstream radio. We can do that by just
getting in the game. Fortunately, this is already underway with the
growing infusion of radio pros into the Christian ranks.

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

Great radio is great radio. Christian air personalities need to
sound as professional and polished as our mainstream counterparts.
Announcers need to respect, complement and enhance the music. The music
is the "star", so that's where the spotlight should point. To
"entertain" means "to hold one's attention." With the right mix of hits
and personalities who are willing to dedicate themselves to format
execution, the sky's the limit! If we ever stop the music on The Fish
XM, it had better be for an awfully good reason!

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

In MHO, and my bias may be showing here (ya think??), Salem's music
stations are leading the way when it comes to setting the bar for
commercial radio. Many non-com outlets like K-Love are doing a fine job
as well. The Body has so many parts would you agree?

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

In 5 years I see Christian radio making greater strides than ever
before in overall audience growth, and a whole lot more Top 10
performers! Remember, "WITH GOD, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!"