I began my radio
career as an overnight board op during the summer of ‘95 at KWBI
in Denver (Inspirational). While doing overnights at KWBI, I
would simultaneously intern for the KIMN morning show (Hot AC).
Talk about an eclectic experience, Twila Paris at night, Madonna
in the morning! I continued to pursue radio in ’97 while
studying at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. These were the
busy years. I picked up an early morning internship at WPNT.
From there, I would go straight to my classes. Once classes were
over, I went to study in my office where I took on the role of
station manager at our campus radio station (WMCR). The
internship in Chicago at WPNT (light AC) gave me enough
experience to eventually take on a promotions position at WTMX
(CHR) in ’98. I can remember going to my systematic theology 400
class in the morning, then spearheading a massive promotion at
the Hard Rock that night. After living in downtown Chicago for
four years, I missed the laid back life of Denver. God
eventually opened the doors for me in the Mile High City as
morning show producer for KIMN. While in Denver, I married my
beautiful wife Kristina. Shortly after, a family of two turned
into a family of three, as our daughter Berkley was born. My
curiosity of Contemporary Christian radio started to grow.
That’s when God planted us in Nashville at WAY-FM.
1.What events led you to your position at WAY FM?
Starting a family changed my life! I wasn’t happy with my
position in Denver. I wanted to pursue employment opportunities
at a radio station that would allow me to express my faith, and
where I could invest a long-term commitment. So, I searched for
many hours, mailed many airchecks and resumes. It wasn’t long
before WAY-FM contacted me.
2. How did your passion for Christian radio develop?
Ever since I caught the contagious radio bug, my desire to
see this tool used to further the kingdom of God increased.
Christian radio has always been considered sub-par to mainstream
radio. After working in both arenas, I (now, more than ever)
strive to attain that higher standard every single day.
3. How does God use you in your daily role in Christian
radio?
In promotions, I find that God uses those little details to
make the greatest difference in a person’s life. Things like
personally responding to every email, promptly returning phone
messages, and sending thank you cards to volunteers, station
event contacts, and radio promotions reps at the record labels.
4. What is the one
thing you like most about working at WAY FM?
Connecting with the listener during my air shift.
5. In your
opinion why is "promotion" important to Christian radio?
Why is promotion important in any radio? I believe promotion
is the glue that holds a radio station together. Without
promotion, programming suffers, your sales department suffers,
and your listenership rarely grows.
6. What kind of promotions work best in Christian
radio?
Those promotions that are creative, yet simple. KEEP IT
SIMPLE. If it’s not simple for you, the listener will surely be
confused.
7. What is the one promotion you are most proud to be a
part of so far?
WAY-FM Nashville turned 10 years old this year. Our Tenth
Anniversary Celebration on April 20th drew more than 16,000
WAY-FM listeners from cities throughout the southeastern United
States.
8. What advice could you give to a young person wanting
to start a career in Christian radio...especially promotions?
Read Proverbs, do as many internships that you possibly can,
and take chances!
