Confessions of a Format Outsider
A few weeks back I had a chance to “crash the party” in Orlando at Momentum 2025. Technically, I was invited to speak by Michelle and her team, so I wasn’t a total loser that just busted in. I got in late Thursday night, took an Uber to the hotel and crashed. I was up early Friday because I wanted to see what Momentum was all about. For about a decade, I served on the agenda committee for CRS (Country Radio Seminar) in Nashville and was the Chairman for a few years. I know the work that goes into producing an industry event like this and I was curious to see what was the same or different with how things run. I made my way to registration, ran into an old co-worker from decades ago at Clear Channel Birmingham (Carrie it was great to see you), got my stuff and started looking around. Even on day three of the event, (which understandably people get tired) the energy was up! People were networking, catching up and were actually talking to vendors in the expo area. I really liked how there was a room of vendors/sponsors placed outside the big ballroom where most activities took place. It made me pay attention and most if not all of the vendors were actively engaged with attendees. There was mojo in the room, a buzz…it felt alive!
The morning session began with a comedian. I wasn’t sure how this would play out but as the day progressed I really liked how the comedian served as the transition piece for speakers, guest artists, giveaways etc. He was funny and I liked how he made polite “inside baseball” jokes. He kept things moving speakers and artists performances. There was never a lull. Things flowed well.
Next up is Fred Jacobs and as soon as I heard the title of his study I thought, “Well how about this? Since I know I’m an outsider to the Christian Music Industry (I’ve been programming, doing on air and coaching talent in secular radio for 40 years and have always wanted to do Christian radio) let’s see how his data stacks up!” Slide after slide, I’m shaking my head saying, “Yes! Yes! Yes!” He’s right!” It was sad for me to admit this because I have so many friends and former co-workers in the business and I feel for them. Before my position was eliminated in 2022 (after 25 years with the company), the truth is, I was burned out and disillusioned. I toiled on out of fear of losing my job etc. Plus, I had bills like everyone else, kids to put through college etc. I had lost my joy but again, I was afraid to leave everything I had known since I was 18. And although the transition of “reinventing” myself at 58 with my talent coaching business has been hard, I can honestly tell you the best thing that happened to me is that God removed me from an incredibly stressful job that I needed to leave. It was running me instead of me running it. I won’t lie at times it’s been messy. I’ve had countless days of why? Why did you take this from me? All the things I enjoyed etc. Why? He removed it from me because it was killing me, and I was too afraid to let go and trust him. Pride, money, ego…. you name it…it was all there. God knew best and it has taken three years for me to grasp this. Yes, I still have some lingering doubts but I’m grateful for God’s continued patience with me. I don’t deserve it.
Back to Fred’s study…it really hit home because as the outsider in the room as Fred was talking about one of main differences of secular radio vs. Christian radio…and how many in secular radio had lost hope, I’m thinking to myself, “He’s 1000% right. I’ve lived that!” Now, that doesn’t mean everything in Christian radio is a life of no stress and perfection…but it was amazing to see the data show a stark difference between secular and Christian radio. And not only that, the other point that most people in Christian radio yes, are wearing multiple hats and there’s stress (that’s life) but they do job because of a sense of purpose and calling. THAT IS WHAT IS MISSING IN MOST SECULAR RADIO.
People have lost their sense of purpose and the “why” of what they got into the business to do. YOU ARE SO FORTUNATE to have the “why” still alive in Christian radio…it’s that is what sets your format apart! It’s why you do what you do! I was sad for many I know but at the same time, I was so inspired by what I felt in the room for your format and talent.
Suffice it to say, I loved my first Momentum experience! The people were awesome, the conference was amazing, and I haven’t even told you about the awesome talent in my panel later on Friday. Check this space in a few weeks for a follow up…and thank YOU again for making an outsider feel like I’ve always belonged.
Tom Hanrahan is a 40-year radio veteran. He’s currently President of CoachedUP, where he coaches radio talent in all formats. Find out more at www.radiotalentcoaching.com or call Tom at 205-482-3020
