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Every March, Austin, Texas becomes a kind of cultural weather station. Now in its 40th year, South by Southwest (SXSW) has earned its reputation as the place where technology, art,
Annie F. Downs is a New York Times bestselling author, sought-after speaker, and successful podcast host based in Nashville, TN. Engaging and honest, she makes readers and listeners alike feel as if they’ve been long-time friends. Co-founder of the That Sounds Fun Network—which includes her aptly named flagship podcast, That Sounds Fun—and author of multiple bestselling books including Chase the Fun, That Sounds Fun, 100 Days to Brave and Remember God, Annie is the friend who will shoot straight with you, remind you that God is good, and still manage to make you laugh in the process. For more about Annie’s work, visit anniefdowns.com.
Even though Lauree is originally from Boring, Oregon, she has lived and traveled to over 50 countries and is always excited to discover a new city, a new culture and a new expression of God’s amazing creation! She flew all the way to Iceland for just 12 hours.
Her first radio job (‘job’ might be generous, it wasn’t paid) was when she was 19 years old at a YWAM school in Northern Ireland.
Lauree loves adventures and has had some crazy ones in her life: tour manager for Tony Hawk and So You Think You Can Dance, missionary to the Czech Republic, skydiving-bungee jumping adrenaline junkie, leadership development consultant, being at gunpoint 12 times…online dating.
Seventeen years after those four shows in Northern Ireland a friend told Lauree, “I think you could do radio.” A PD in Dallas took a chance to teach her how to do radio. Lauree is celebrating 5 years as a radio personality and loves doing middays at K-LOVE.
Keeping the Gates of a Holy City
Be encouraged and challenged as we refocus our collective missions to include the idea of “gatekeeping” according to God’s intended design for it. We’ll explore what stewardship of platforms can spiritually and practically look like, and we’ll dive into how we can best honor God and one another as we serve in the Christian media industry.
EJ Gaines is Senior Vice President of Marketing at Capitol CMG and Co-Executive Director of Motown Gospel, divisions of Capitol Records/Universal Music Group. An entertainment lawyer and former artist manager with 20 years of experience in the music business, EJ Gaines has guided the careers of GRAMMY® Award-winning recording artists, producers and songwriters, as well as producers and talent in film, TV and other forms of media and content.
EJ Gaines serves as a National Trustee for the Recording Academy, and sits on the Board of Directors for several organizations, including Music Health Alliance, the Gospel Music Trust Fund, and the Gospel Music Association. In 2021, EJ was named a Change Agent by Billboard and, most recently, was appointed Chairman of the U.S. Board of Hope for Justice, a global nonprofit organization which aims to end human trafficking and modern slavery.
EJ Gaines currently resides in Franklin, TN with his wife, recording artist and public speaker Janice Gaines, and their two sons.
Untapped Local Podcast Opportunity
More and more people expect audio to be available on demand. We’ll give you ideas and actionable strategies to build a successful local podcast initiative for your radio station.
A recognized leader in audio programming, marketing, and management, Steve has developed scores of successful radio brands around the country, nurtured and advanced local and national talent, and pioneered many podcasting and voice-first initiatives.
Amplifi Media is the go-to advisor for major broadcast networks, media companies, brands and podcasters, guiding audio strategy, development, and marketing for podcasts. Amplifi provides audio strategy, development and marketing services to clients including NBC/Universal TV, ABC News, Dave Ramsey, EY, Skyview Networks, CurtCo Media, Beasley Media, and more. He is also a guest lecturer and creator of the Business of Podcasting Course for NYU’s Steinhardt School.
Prior to founding Amplifi, Steve developed content for major broadcast companies including NBC and ABC. He was a founding partner of Saga Communications (NASDAQ: SGA), serving as Executive Vice President and Group Program Director from the company’s formation in 1986 until 2015 when he started Amplifi Media.
More
In today’s Christian culture, we have more of everything, which often gets in the way of having more of Jesus. Let’s explore what more of Jesus looks like.
Dr. Derwin L. Gray is the founding and Lead Pastor of Transformation Church, just outside of Charlotte, NC. He is also the author of several books, including “How to Heal Our Racial Divide: What the Bible Says, and What the First Century Christian Knew about Racial Reconciliation.” You can follow him at @derwinlgray on Instagram, twitter, and Facebook. As well as derwinlgray.com.
Rooting for Rivals
Faith-based organizations are sometimes known for what we’re against–and, all too often, that includes being against each other. But followers of Jesus have a unique opportunity to link arms across our organizational boundaries and pursue a calling higher than our own agendas. Rooting for Rivals reveals how your organization can multiply its impact by cooperating rather than competing. This session celebrates case studies illustrating the power of collaborative partnership in pursuing the power of openhanded leadership.
Peter Greer is the president and CEO of HOPE International, a global Christ-centered economic development organization serving throughout Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. Prior to joining HOPE, Peter worked internationally in Cambodia, Zimbabwe and Rwanda and received an MPP in political and economic development from Harvard’s Kennedy School. Peter’s favorite part of his job is spending time with the entrepreneurs HOPE serves—whether harvesting coffee with farmers in Rwanda, dancing alongside savings groups in Haiti, or visiting the greenhouses of entrepreneurs in Ukraine. As an advocate for the Church’s role in missions and alleviating extreme poverty, Peter has co-authored 14 books, including Mission Drift, Rooting for Rivals, The Gift of Disillusionment, and The Spiritual Danger of Doing Good. More important than his role at HOPE is his role as husband to Laurel and dad to Keith, Liliana, Myles, and London. While his sports loyalties remain in New England, Peter and his family live in Lancaster, PA.
Living a Life of More
Many of us feel called to live a life of more – more impact, more meaning, more purpose. But if we’re not careful, we can get stuck in The Drift and find ourselves living a life of mediocrity – or worse regrets. Daniel will share a time-tested model from the best-selling book, Living Forward, so you can use your life as a platform to make an even greater impact in those around you.
Daniel Harkavy has been coaching business leaders to peak levels of performance, efficacy, and fulfillment for more than 25 years.
In 1996, he harnessed his passion for coaching leaders and teams to found Building Champions, where he serves as CEO and Executive Coach. Daniel and his team of coaches have worked with thousands of clients and organizations to improve the way they lead and live.
Daniel is a sought-after author and speaker, most recently authoring The 7 Perspectives of Effective Leaders which was released in October 2020. His book Living Forward, a national bestseller, was published in March 2016. Daniel also authored Becoming A Coaching Leader: The Proven Strategy for Building Your Own Team of Champions in 2007.
As an executive coach and trusted confidant, Daniel works with high profile leaders to improve their leadership, decision-making, influence, and overall effectiveness. Daniel’s emphatic belief is that self-leadership precedes team leadership, and his goal is to help his clients optimize how they lead themselves first, then focusing on how to best work with their executive teams and all key constituents in their organizations. He engages with clients in many forms including one-on-one executive coaching sessions, executive retreats, speaking engagements and custom experiences.
Some of the clients he has worked with include: Daimler, Nike, Chick-fil-A, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Pfizer, Infineum (an ExxonMobil and Shell company), Bank of America, Wells Fargo, MetLife, PrimeLending, US Bank, Northwestern Mutual, Morgan Stanley, Prudential, Merrill Lynch and many others.
Daniel lives just outside Portland, Oregon, where he and his wife and family enjoy a little space for gardening and play. Daniel actively serves his community as a member of nonprofit boards and a mentor to those seeking his guidance. His other passions include surfing, snowboarding, and spending time with his family.
The Theology of Calling
Scripture makes it clear that Jesus didn’t simply save us from something, He saved us for something! In other words, Christ followers are divinely designed to be both consumers of grace and carriers of grace. What would it look like to lean into our purpose with more passion while simultaneously leaning more fully into our Creator with gratitude and humility? How can we challenge our mindset by moving away from the feelings of inadequacy in our jobs and regaining our confidence in Christ?
Lisa Harper is described as both a hilarious storyteller and theological scholar. She’s written numerous books and Bible studies, teaches at churches and conferences around the world, and is in the thesis stage of an earned doctorate at Denver Seminary. But her favorite role by far is being Missy’s mom.
Creativity, Bravery, and Impact
Most of our cultural reference points for bravery involve heroic actions like storming a beach, risking everything on an unlikely business deal, or casting caution to the wind on a massive career change. When organizations are willing to confront uncertainty with clear and decisive action, greatness emerges. Discover the two key factors that must be present for habitual bravery to occur and how leaders and creative pros can cultivate “the brave habit” in their daily lives to grow both their platform and impact.
Positioning himself as an “arms dealer for the creative revolution,” Todd Henry teaches leaders and organizations how to establish practices that lead to everyday brilliance. He is the author of five books (The Accidental Creative, Die Empty, Louder Than Words, Herding Tigers, The Motivation Code, Daily Creative) which have been translated into more than a dozen languages, and he speaks and consults across dozens of industries on creativity, leadership, and passion for work.
With more than fifteen million downloads, his podcast The Accidental Creative offers weekly tips for how to stay prolific, brilliant, and healthy. Todd’s book Die Empty was named by Amazon.com as one of the best books of 2013.
His latest book, Daily Creative, offers daily sparks of inspiration and practical advice for creative pros.
Neal “Neallytime” Hopson is a man driven by family and faith. He is a husband of 13 years to his beautiful wife, Kim and father to their 4 year old daughter, Gabriella. He’s a lover of Jesus and Chipotle. Throughout his exciting career, Neal has held titles as a nationally ranked professional tennis player, and an award-winning sales professional with Mercedes Benz.
Today, Neal reaches multitudes across the nation as the afternoon show host on BOOST RADIO, middays on NGEN Radio, and evenings on Pulse 101.7. Whether on-air, on the turntables as a live DJ, or through his sought after talents as dance choreographer or emcee, he has a passion for impacting people.
Neal’s company ‘One Goal Global’ serves a who’s who roster of clients through creating excellent experiences on world stages. He adds value in a way he’s only uniquely designed with the “Neallytime Touch”. For many years, Neal has had the opportunity to impact the next generation in stadiums and in small groups. His One Goal remains the same; to lead people to God and help them discover His purpose for their life.
The Core Strengths of Creative Champions
Everyone is creative but not everyone believes they are. Learn how to build your confidence using the three Core Strengths of Creative Champions: curiosity, connections, and courage. Unlock the creativity you and your team have that is waiting to be used.
Wade Kingsley is a Creativity Coach and Consultant from Australia. He is currently the Australian Ambassador for World Creativity & Innovation Week.
Over the past 25 years he has worked in the radio, media and marketing industries with leadership responsibilities at Nova Entertainment, dentsu, and SCA.
In 2017 he founded ‘The Ideas Business’ which helps brands use creative thinking to solve problems. In 2021, The Ideas Business was named one of Australia’s Top 100 fastest growing start-ups.
He created the ‘Creative Champions’ Course, taking his experience in one-on-one coaching to help people learn how to be better creative problem solvers. Wade believes everyone is creative and focuses on giving people the confidence to unlock and share their creative ideas with the world.
Wade lives outside Melbourne, Australia with his wife Suze, two children Joshua and Emma; Cavapoo and low-allergy cat.
Resisting Burnout = Embracing More Platform
Burnout is an epidemic in the workplace. According to some surveys, as many as 90% of people experience symptoms of burnout every year. Clearly, something’s got to give as we try to influence more people in more places for Christ. Learn strategies for not only overcoming but staying out of burnout for good.
Carey Nieuwhof is a best-selling leadership author, speaker, podcaster, former attorney, and church planter.
Carey speaks to leaders around the world about leadership, change and personal growth. His podcast, The Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast, has 18 million downloads and features interviews with many of today’s top leaders.
In addition, Carey writes one of today’s most influential leadership blogs at CareyNieuwhof.com. His online content is accessed by leaders over 1.5 million times a month. He holds degrees in law, theology, and history.
Carey’s mission is to help people thrive in life and leadership. He has extensive experience helping organizations lead through change, develop high-capacity teams, deepen their personal growth along with their health.
His best-selling book, At Your Best: How to Get Time, Energy, and Priorities Working in Your Favor, is designed to help every leader escape stress and begin living at a sustainable pace and has been profiled by Forbes, Fast Company, and Business Insider.
His other books include Didn’t See It Coming: Overcoming the Seven Greatest Challenges That No One Expects But Everyone Experiences, Lasting Impact: 7 Powerful Conversations That Will Help Your Church Grow, Leading Change Without Losing It and Parenting Beyond Your Capacity, co-authored with Reggie Joiner.
Carey and his wife Toni live north of Toronto, Ontario and have two grown sons. In his spare time, you’ll catch him barbecuing on his Big Green Egg, cycling, or boating.
Authenticity & Vulnerability: Deciding What, When & How to Share
Authenticity is the buzzword of the day. Personalities are encouraged to be more honest and authentic, yet many don’t know where to start…and some don’t know when to stop. Hear real-life examples, tips and templates for finding that sweet spot of being real without being, well, too real.
For 16 years, Angela has focused her career on the development of personalities and personality brands. Seeing a gap between the feedback needs of talent and the time and bandwidth of managers, Angela uses her unique combination of radio and life coaching expertise, creativity and candor to meet performers where they are and inspire them to reach their full potential.
Prior to launching her company in 2013, Angela spent over 20 years in programming at groundbreaking female-targeted stations, K101/San Francisco and Star 98.7/Los Angeles, winning multiple industry awards.
Destination: Unknown
We all think we know where we’re heading in life, but the reality is most people (and organizations) have little idea where their journey will take them. And Tim Sinclair knows better than most. Once a budding architect, Tim is now the voice of the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Bears, and he’ll use stories from his unlikely journey to help you grow your platform through wiser decisions and more effective goals, even though you might not know where they’ll lead.
After nearly two decades as an award-winning radio personality, Tim has made a name for himself in a different arena. Literally.
As the public address announcer for the Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, Chicago Fire, and Illinois Fighting Illini, Tim’s voice is synonymous with big-time sporting events…including multiple NBA All-Star Games, the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, the Big Ten Championship Football Game and NBA2K.
The Power of MORE PLATFORM [ PANEL ]
It’s time to pursue more. We all have a mission to reach more people, and it’s becoming increasingly difficult to do that in a saturated, competitive market. Let’s look at the forward-thinking opportunities across all media platforms that will lead to more brand awareness, more influence, and ultimately more impact. Let’s give more platform to the Gospel message so that more people, in more places, are being reached for Jesus.
Dan is the Chief Creative Officer at Dunham+Company, pushing the boundaries of branding, marketing and media while staying rigorously informed by data and analytics. Creativity is both an art and a science – Dan and the teams that he leads model that balance.
Practical Tips For Podcasters
In today’s climate, it is important for your radio station to create compelling podcasts. Not only does this impact your station, it’s a great opportunity for non-traditional revenue. You will walk away with practical tools on how to launch or upgrade your podcast offerings. Plus, hear ten tips for keeping a new listener in the first 60 seconds of your podcast.
Matty Staudt is a podcasting pioneer, Webby Winner, and Ambie nominated Producer and entrepreneur. Starting at the age of 16 in West Virginia Matty became a morning radio mainstay in places like DC, NYC, and San Francisco. In 2008 he joined the start-up team at Stitcher as their first Director of Content. Over his podcasting career, Matty has launched over 400 shows, built podcasts for companies like Ford, Pfizer, and Estee Lauder, consulted for many independent networks, and was on the founding team of The iHeartRadio Podcast Network, where he served as radio’s VP of Podcast Programming. Matty has worked with and He’s an educator at two Universities and the Founder of Jam Street Media, a production and consulting house based in Los Angeles with hit shows Appalachia Mysteria and Deep Cover: The Real Donnie Brasco.
The Power of MORE PLATFORM [ PANEL ]
It’s time to pursue more. We all have a mission to reach more people, and it’s becoming increasingly difficult to do that in a saturated, competitive market. Let’s look at the forward-thinking opportunities across all media platforms that will lead to more brand awareness, more influence, and ultimately more impact. Let’s give more platform to the Gospel message so that more people, in more places, are being reached for Jesus.
Matthew West is a five-time GRAMMY® nominee, a multiple ASCAP Christian Music Songwriter/Artist of the Year winner and a 2018 Dove Award Songwriter of the Year (Artist) recipient. In 2022, Matthew was given the prestigious Songwriter of the Year award from the Nashville Songwriter’s Association International (NSAI). He is only one of two Christian artists to ever win, and is the first to win it in over 20 years.
He has received an American Music Award, a Billboard Music Award, a K-LOVE Fan Award and named Billboard’s Hot Christian Songwriter of the Year. A recipient of the Rich Mullins Impact Award, West also received a Primetime Emmy® Award nomination for Original Music & Lyrics for the title track for the feature film “The Heart of Christmas.” He has been awarded a RIAA Gold certification for his single “Hello, My Name Is” and RIAA Platinum certification for the song “The Motions.”
In addition to his own recording career, he has co-hosted the K-LOVE Fan Awards five times and has more than 130 songwriting credits to his name, including cuts by Rascal Flatts, Scotty McCreery, Michael W. Smith, Amy Grant, Mandisa, Danny Gokey and others, along with back-to-back No. 1 songs by Casting Crowns including their recent single, “Nobody,” which West is featured.
Adding author to his list of accolades, West has written six books to date: Give This Christmas Away, The Story Of Your Life, Forgiveness, Today Is Day One, Hello, My Name Is, and his latest, The God Who Stays. He is also passionate about providing hope and healing through the power of prayer and story. Along with his father, Pastor Joe West, they founded popwe, a non-profit ministry helping others to craft, share, and live a more meaningful life. In what little spare time he has left, he is also creator and host of the Matthew West Podcast which is a part of Annie F. Downs’ That Sounds Fun network.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
Full registration includes lunch, dinner and snacks Wednesday, May 31 – Friday, June 2 (breakfast not included) as well as all educational sessions, music performances and a ticket to one of the Universal Studios parks (must attend Momentum Worship on 5/31 to receive your ticket).
CMB MEMBERSHIP
CMB members have access to the best rates for all CMB events, as well as exclusive members-only benefits. Learn more & become a member today!
Gold Membership – $1289 • Silver Membership – $289
OTHER REGISTRATION OPTIONS:
Spouse/Child 10+ – $599
International Attendee – $599
Full Time College Student – $299 *includes Silver Membership with Momentum registration
College students – Momentum Mentors are for you! You will be paired with a leader in our industry that will help show you the ropes, invest in you, and introduce you to others throughout the conference. You can sign up for a mentor when you register or send a request to info@cmbonline.org.
College Professor – $299 with the Carl Fletcher Scholarship • Apply Now >>
Momentum On Demand – $99 Momentum Attendees // $399 Non-Momentum Attendees
Includes videos from the main stage speakers and audio from all of the breakout sessions for both Thursday and Friday. Please note that this does not include workshops or performances and is not live. We believe that attending in person is the BEST way to experience Momentum and get the full experience of all that’s offered.
SCHOLARSHIPS
Scholarships are available for those who need financial assistance. Learn more >>
NEED HELP CONVINCING YOUR BOSS?
If you need help convincing management to send you to Momentum, click here to download our proposal letter!
**MAY 19 – registration CLOSES. No walk up registrations will be accepted.**
Momentum 2023 will be held at Sapphire Falls Resort & Convention Center in Orlando, FL.
The room block for Momentum’s host hotels, Sapphire Falls and Aventura, is closed. If you need assistance, please contact info@cmbonline.org for more information.
Supporting Artists Beyond The Songs
Sandi Brown – President, JOY FM/Boost (KLJY & KXBS)
Dave Cruse – Program Director and Morning Host for The JOY FM Network
Corey Mann – Mornings / PD / Podcast Host, Family Broadcasting Corporation / Pulse FM (WHPZ)
Kenny Rodgers – VP, Capitol Christian Music Group
In an era where music fans can hear the songs everywhere, radio has the unique opportunity to expose the HEART of the artists. Through partnering with artists and labels to create unique events and promotions, there is opportunity to make listeners superfans of artists as well as your station!
2023 Why Listen Survey
Chuck Finney – President, Finney Media
In this just-released nationwide survey of Christian radio listeners, veteran consultant Chuck Finney shows why and how CCM listeners listen, why they give and why they leave—and what’s changed since the last survey. Come ready to engage with key insights and strategies you can use next week at your station.
Brand Intersection Tool Kit: Tools to Tell Your Station’s Story Alongside the Artist Brand
Leigh Holt – CEO / Manager, Maddjett
Ever wonder how to weave what matters to your audience while promoting the songs your station is playing? Let’s discuss how to integrate your station’s brand while partnering with the artist’s story to build a stronger narrative that your audience will want to engage with. Learn tools that you can use to simplify multiple messages and create content that is on point with your vision.
Unlocking the Power of Digital: Creating New Revenue Streams for Your Radio Station
Trey Morris – Vice President / Senior Consultant, The Center for Sales Strategy
Learn about the importance of offering digital marketing solutions to partners in order to increase revenue for your station. Trey will explain how to leverage a station’s content and talent to create new revenue streams and capitalize on the fast-growing digital marketing category. Leave with a deeper understanding of the benefits of offering digital solutions and practical strategies for implementing them.
Can We Reach More People Through Spanish Radio?
Brenda Aguila – Director of Spanish Ministries/Fuzión On-Air-Host, Encouragement Media Group-Fuzión
Marcos Barraza – Director of Broadcast Operations, Inspiracom/Manantial FM
Sadiel Castro – Program Director Spanish Brand Viva Unida, Hope Media Group
Hispanics are the fastest growing minority in the US. Many of them are first generation migrants. Learn what tools are available to your ministry as well as how to develop a community outreach program. Walk away with proven strategies to reach more people through Spanish Christian radio.
The Surprising Shift in Generational Giving
Rick Dunham – Founder/Chairman, Dunham+Company
Let’s unpack Dunham+Company’s latest research on Generational Giving (published as a Special Report by the Giving USA Foundation). Walk away with a better understanding of how each generation is shifting in its giving behaviors, as well some surprising findings about the younger generations.
What Your Listener’s Heart Longs to Hear Using the Enneagram
Denise Harper – Program Director, The Bridge (WKNZ)
Ben Sorrells – Director of Community Engagement, The Bridge (WKNZ)
What if you could engage with your target listener in such a personal way that you could speak directly to what her heart longs to hear? Using the knowledge of the Enneagram, learn how to craft daily on-air breaks that transition into songs that speak to how she sees the world and the ones she loves.
Creative Champions Workout
Wade Kingsley – Founder, Creative Champions
This is going to be like a workout…a mental one! In this highly intense training session, you will practice the ‘Core Strengths of Creative Champions’ discussed on the main stage such as how to be more inquisitive, care about more things and use them as inputs to fuel the creative process.
Navigating your Social Strategy in Radio: Making Sure Your Content Generates Exceptional ROI
Heather Heuman – CEO/Digital Missionary, Sweet Tea Social Marketing
Feeling frustrated that the social media trends are constantly shifting and yet you are seeking to grow your radio station’s visibility and achieve your business goals? Let’s explore exactly what to focus on in your digital strategy using her signature S.O.C.I.A.L. Framework and give tactical things you can do each week to continue to have a thriving and engaged audience.
Hey, Is that Legal?
Scott Hunter – Vice President and Senior Legal Counsel to Salem Media Group
Jerry Woods – Morning Show Host/Director of Marketing, WGTS 91.9
So you’ve dreamed up the perfect contest, remote, or stunt. It’s going to get the listeners excited, and it’ll be great for ratings, too. Then the boss rolls through and asks, “Are we covered legally?” You could fake it and hope you’re okay, but that’s probably not the wisest course. Let’s walk through what works and what doesn’t, as we break things down with a broadcast lawyer. It’ll be the most fun allowed by law.
Unifying in a Diverse Culture
Melissa Montana – CEO/President, STAR 88.3 (WLAB)
Josh Raines – Director of Outreach & Director of Strategic Partnerships, STAR 88.3 (WLAB)
In a world that is becoming more diverse, we have to be able to speak to everyone in the building and to our audience. It’s important to be inclusive in our outreach as well. Not just one conversation and not just one event, but to make it a part of the world we live in as Christian broadcasters. Let’s talk about practical ways to be unified in a diverse world and how to have open discussions.
How Artificial Intelligence is Changing the Industry
Danielle Rice – Chief Technology Officer, Dunham+Company
Technology is changing so fast. It can seem daunting, especially when it comes to AI. Hear about how AI is now available to everyone and how the ethical use of AI can help you achieve your mission in radio. Whether you’re using it to make informed decisions about content, improve processes and systems, or better engage your listeners, AI has many applications that you need to know about and have a plan for.
The Power of MORE PLATFORM [ PANEL ]
It’s time to pursue more. We all have a mission to reach more people, and it’s becoming increasingly difficult to do that in a saturated, competitive market. Let’s look at the forward-thinking opportunities across all media platforms that will lead to more brand awareness, more influence, and ultimately more impact. Let’s give more platform to the Gospel message so that more people, in more places, are being reached for Jesus.
Scott Herrold is Chief of Programming for Hope Media Group (WayFM, KSBJ & Vida Unida). He was also the Program Director & Morning Show Host for SOS Radio Network for 15 years. Scott was named one of “Radio’s 10 Best Program Directors” by Radio Ink. Edison Media also listed Scott as one of “Radio’s 30 Under 30 Shining Stars,” two different times before his hair was gray. In addition, his morning show consistently rated in the top 5 in Las Vegas, according to Nielsen. Through the years he’s worked in CHR, Hot AC & Christian radio with stations like 96.3 WDVD/Detroit, 93.1 DRQ/Detroit, Sos Radio/Las Vegas, 106.9 K-Hits/Tulsa, 102.5 WIOG/Saginaw, 100.3 The Kross/Tulsa & SOS Radio/Las Vegas. Scott is a Cum Laude graduate of Eastern Michigan University’s business school, and he was inducted into the Nevada Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2021.
Under Scott’s leadership, SOS Radio was awarded the CMB “Station of the Year Award,” in both 2020 & 2016. In addition, SOS Radio was honored with community service awards from both Christian Music Broadcasters and the Gospel Music Association, for the inventive service projects the SOS team has created with Hope for Prisoners, Project 150, TSA, Clark County Schools, The City of Las Vegas Faith Initiative & Henderson Hospital.
The Power of MORE PLATFORM [ PANEL ]
It’s time to pursue more. We all have a mission to reach more people, and it’s becoming increasingly difficult to do that in a saturated, competitive market. Let’s look at the forward-thinking opportunities across all media platforms that will lead to more brand awareness, more influence, and ultimately more impact. Let’s give more platform to the Gospel message so that more people, in more places, are being reached for Jesus.
Originally from Tulsa, Michelle has worked with radio and records in some capacity since 1988. She was invited to join the CMB team in 2011 and currently serves as the Executive Director. Michelle and her husband Dave have 3 children and live in Little Rock.
How effective is your leadership? What is your relationship to risk? Are you ready to manage the changes required of your ministry in the coming years? As John C. Maxwell says, “Everything rises and falls on leadership.” This workshop will focus on your strengths as a leader as well as identify your blind spots. You’ll walk through several exercises to sharpen your self-awareness to be the leader God has designed you to be and understand how your leadership characteristics relate to the other members of your team. You’ll discover your own emotional EQ. You’ll also have an opportunity to discover your personal “leadership compass,” including a summary of your leadership style.
Billy Dunn – Senior Consultant, The Center Consulting Group
Paul Goldsmith – Chief Business Officer, Vidare Creative
Dave Kirby – Chief Creative Officer, Vidare Creative
Bill Scott – Chief Client Officer, Vidare Creative
The AI and ChatGPT revolution has begun. There’s no way around it. How can we understand it in order to optimize this technology to reach more people? Learn the profound effects and implications for Christian music radio. Additionally, perceptual and music research can significantly impact your station when applied strategically. Hear from stations who are top 10 in their market and learn how they’re using research to make them successful in attracting more listeners and impacting their communities.
Joe Buchanan – Station Manager, WCIC
Bill Bumpas – VP of Programming, Encouragement Media Group (KVNE)
Dennis Clark – EVP Talent Development, iHeartRadio
Paul Jacobs – VP/GM, Jacobs Media & President, jacapps
Jeremy Morris – Operations/Content/Tech Director, KSGN
Matt Stockman – Brand Director, Pillar Media
Brennan Wimbish – Program Director, WGTS 91.9
It’s vital for your listeners to feel connected to you when they tune into your radio station. Explore the anatomy of a great show. The demo has morphed over the past few years not only because of Covid, but also because of the shift in culture. What does the demo look like today and how can we make sure we are meeting her needs? Plus, learn more about content filtering and how to build the muscle of quickly and effectively picking excellent content for your show.
Beth Bacall – On-Air Talent, The Fish (WFSH) & Media Coach
Candice Grey – Middays, The JOY FM
Jenn Pooler – Program Director and Middays, Life 101.9 / Evenings, Life 88.5 / Evenings at Life 97.3
Frank Reed – Host, ‘Keep the Faith’ / Former Morning Co-host, KLTY
Lisa Williams – Network Talent Coach, Northwestern Media
Andy Youso – Afternoons, KTIS / Syndicated Radio Personality, SmartRadio Suite / Podcast Host
As a radio station, it is imperative that you engage your community. You may ask yourself…How do I make the most out of an artist visit or promotion? How do I create a memorable experience for our listeners through our events and remotes? How do I use texting with our promotions? These questions and more will be discussed. You’ll leave this Workshop feeling empowered to influence and reach more people for Jesus.
Jennifer Bailey – VP Marketing & Promotions, Encouragement Media Group (KVNE)
Erin Branham – Creative Services Director, BRIGHT-FM (WRBS)
Jeri Cooper & Brian Thiele – Curb | Word Entertainment
Colton Dixon – Fair Trade Recording Artist
Lizz Ryals – Program Director & Morning Show Co-host, HIS Radio
Jordan Smith – Marketing Director, Educational Media Foundation
Michael Tedesco – Vice President Business Relations, Hope Media Group
Wally – Morning Show Host, WayFM
Jerry Woods – Director of Marketing & Morning Show Host, WGTS
Whether your station is non-commercial, commercial or a hybrid, revenue is crucial to maintain your station. All stations do some sort of fundraising. Let’s explore the many platforms that can be used to generate income streams resulting in a strong ROI. Plus, take a deep dive into the digital revenue opportunities available to radio.
Kelly Brandon – Managing Director of Donor Ministries, The Light FM
Jon Hamilton – President, Christian FM Media Group
Paul Martin – Chief of Development, Hope Media Group
Dave Patterson – Chief Commercial Officer, Smart 1 Marketing
Dusty Rhodes – Chief Development Officer, WGTS 91.9
Social and digital can be explained in two words…MORE PLATFORM. With the growth of technology and the advancement of social media, you have a bigger opportunity for more influence, more reach, and more connection with your listeners. Podcasting, texting, digital vs. programming…just a few of the topics we will tackle. Bring your social and digital questions so you can walk away with resources to help you grow your station in the digital space.
Carl Bliss – Director of Marketing, Northwestern Media
Zach Boehm – VP of Digital Content, Hope Media Group
Mike Cantrell – Managing Partner, Ministry by Text
Annie F. Downs – Author & Podcast Host
Cari Kates – Director of Digital Content, Pillar Media
Emily Thevarajoo – Digital Content Director, KCBI
He Gets Us, A Platform That’s Moving America
Learn about the strategy and insights that shape He Gets Us, the impact the campaign is having on Americans, and lessons you can apply at your own stations.
Jason Vanderground is President of BrandHaven. In this role, he provides overall strategic, client, and staff leadership for the firm. Over the past 18 months, that has included management of the He Gets Us campaign, a nationwide effort to raise the respect and relevancy of Jesus in our culture. Previously, Jason held significant marketing leadership positions at Spectrum Health System, Steelcase Office Furniture, and Irwin Seating. He began his career at Hanon McKendry over 25 years ago, where he worked with Bill McKendry, Chief Creative Officer at BrandHaven.
$99 – Attendee On Demand
$399 – Non Attendee On Demand
Experience Momentum 2023 at your own pace with Momentum On Demand – includes videos of the 15 main stage speakers and audio from 12 breakouts.
The Urgency Of Branding
Content may be king, but building your brand is essential to unlocking its full potential. Gain insights into why focusing on brand building is more urgent than ever for your show, network, or platform to be noticed by today’s distracted consumers. Hear specific examples of brand-building tactics you can add to your strategic plan, and why obsessing over ratings and other metrics can be detrimental to success.
Meghan has over 20 years of experience in media and music research and currently serves as Vice President/Consultant & Director of Qualitative Services at Coleman Insights. Coleman Insights provides quantitative and qualitative research- including perceptual research, music testing, content testing, focus groups, and online discussion groups – to media brands including the radio, podcasting, television, and streaming industries. Meghan lives in Raleigh, NC where she loves spending time with her family and is an avid fitness enthusiast.
Are Your DJ Breaks Long Enough?
Music is no longer the #1 thing listeners come to radio for; it’s our personalities. Is it time to rethink the tried and true best practices for air talents? From taking the first-exit to one-thought per break, we’ll get into rules that still make sense in 2023 and explore what’s best left in the past.
Mike Couchman is Operations Manager for JOY FM/St. Louis and the BOOST Radio network. He’s also grateful to have served at SOS Radio/Las Vegas, the WAY-FM Network, and has been on-air from Market #3 to markets with no numbers at all. Before Christian radio, Mike cut his teeth in mainstream CHR, Country, and Urban formats. It all started with a $9 RadioShack wireless FM microphone as a kid in Lansing, MI.
The Most Important Findings From The 2023 CMB Techsurvey
The annual CMB Techsurvey is a comprehensive look at the way listeners are engaging with media, technology, and more. Hear just-released findings and provide context and recommendations to help programmers and digital leaders grow all aspects of their stations.
Paul Jacobs is the Vice President/General Manager of Jacobs Media, which for thirty-eight years has provided programming, digital, sales, and social media consulting to commercial and public radio stations, including stations owned by Beasley, Hubbard, NPR, PRI, and many Public Radio stations. The company is credited with the creation of the Classic Rock radio format for commercial radio, and its breakthrough research studies, including its Techsurvey studies for commercial, Christian, and Public Radio.
Jacobs has become a leading spokesperson for the radio industry regarding the changing in-car audio experience and the necessity for the digital transformation of the radio industry. Along with presentations for broadcasters on these important trends, Jacobs helped create the DASH Conference – a gathering of broadcasters and leaders from the automotive industry designed to foster understanding and cooperation – and has consulted the National Association of Broadcasters Connected Car Committee.
In a career in broadcasting and consulting that spans four decades, Jacobs began his career on the sales side of the business and WNIC and WRIF in Detroit, ultimately serving as a General Manager at radio stations in Dallas and Detroit. In 1991, Jacobs joined his brothers Fred and Bill at Jacobs Media.
In 2008, Jacobs also became the President of a startup mobile application development company – jacapps. The company was formed to create mobile apps for radio stations, and has since broadened out into multiple categories, including construction, legal, and others. It is one of the largest mobile application developers, with over 1,300 apps developed worldwide.
Paul is a frequent speaker at various conventions around the world, including the NAB/RAB Radio Show, CMB’s Momentum, Canadian Music Week, and at public radio conferences including PRPD, the Super Regional, and PMDMC.
Paul just concluded six years on the Board of Greater Public, spending the last three years as Board Chair. Greater Public is a service organization dedicated to growing revenue for public radio and television stations across the United States via underwriting, development, and other fundraising endeavors. He is also the past Board Chair of the Michigan Association of Broadcasters Foundation.
He was inducted into the Michigan Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2016, received the Rockwell Lifetime Achievement Award from The Conclave in 2019, and was awarded the Outstanding Alumni award from Michigan State University’s ComArtSci Department in 2021.
Paul is a graduate of Michigan State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Advertising.
Don’t Let An Algorithm Get Between You & Your Listeners
Are you tired of keeping up with ever-changing social media algorithms to reach your listeners? When your radio station posts about an upcoming promotion, ministry opportunity, special event, podcast launch, or pledge drive, you can expect to reach around 5% of your total audience. (Insert sad trombone wah-wah-wah sound effect). Learn about the most effective ways to leverage your current social media channels to grow your email and SMS list so you can reach your audience anytime, about anything, without having to force your morning show to do the latest TikTok dance trend.
Matt has done digital marketing strategy and digital content creation for Christian radio stations and record labels since Myspace was created. He’s worked for industry leaders like K-LOVE, Air1, KCMS, Tooth & Nail, and Provident Label Group. Naturally curious, he is always discovering and testing the latest digital trends, while being thoughtful and strategic about which trends to implement for his clients. This bio may, or may not have been written with the creative assistance of AI.
A Station’s Success Is Centered In Its Story
Any compelling brand is defined by its fans by the story it tells. Stories are powerful mechanisms to differentiate brands from competitors and develop believers. Rooted in history, truth, and its values, your story is what humanizes you, makes you relatable, and turns listeners into evangelists. As a PD, you are the catalyst for spreading the power of your station’s story and how that strategic decision is at the center of being a unique radio brand listeners will always remember.
Steve Reynolds hosted morning shows then realized the industry would need strong coaches to help keep talent relevant and additive to the build out of the radio station.
Steve coaches high profile talent in major markets of the US looking to level up and new programs needing to launch strategically. Steve is the Top Ten Talent Coach, working with the biggest shows in America, Canada, and The Netherlands, helping them stay fun and relevant on all content platforms so they continue their ascent to building radio brands that are impenetrable in competitive environments.
Strategy, great content, innovation, connecting with an audience, and building strong cultures for radio’s biggest wins are Steve’s passions.
Innovating With History: Learning Lessons From The Past For Our Future
Keeping up with technology trends can feel overwhelming and confusing for radio stations! What do we do with AI, AR, VR and all of the other “technologies of the future”? We’ll take a look back at history and learn from the lessons of organizations that both thrived and died during key technological shifts and how we can lean into the opportunities and soar into the future rather than get left behind in the midst of confusion.
Nils joined the Dunham+Company team in 2016. With his extensive background in social media, innovation, and communication, Nils helps Dunham+Company clients create more impact through the latest social media and online best practices.
Before coming to Dunham+Company, Nils worked as the Innovation Pastor at Community Bible Church in San Antonio, Texas, one of the largest and fastest-growing churches in the country. While there, Nils led a talented team that grew their church’s online engagement. He pioneered their use of mobile apps and TV apps, and built the online church platform that now reaches 12,000 people in 400 cities each week.
He is the author of The Social Media Guide: Insights for Effective Engagement and Crypto for Good: Demystifying Cryptocurrencies for Nonprofits. His work has been featured in a wide range of publications. Nils is regarded as a world-leading expert at the crossroads of social media and nonprofit strategy, and his expertise serves Dunham+Company clients every day.
Nils has a Business Management degree from Texas State University and holds a Masters in Ministry Leadership from Rockbridge Seminary. He lives in New York City with his wife and two daughters.
Amp Up Your Air Check Session: Tools Every PD Needs
Program Directors have a lot on their plates. Sometimes, we back burner air-checks due to packed schedules, but this decision has long-term consequences. Air-talent matter. Relationships matter. Connection matters, on and off the air. Let’s discuss the “why” of air checks and then the “what” or the “coaching clock” that allows you to make the time together meaningful, talent focused, and beneficial for radio skills.
Lisa Williams is the Network Talent Coach for Northwestern Media, a ministry of University of Northwestern – St. Paul, serving Faith Radio, KTIS Minneapolis, Life 100.7 Omaha, Life 101.9 Waterloo, Life 102.5 Madison, Life 107.1 Des Moines, Life 88.5 Kansas City, Life 96.5 Sioux Falls, Life 97.3 Duluth, Life 97.9 Fargo, 107.1 KSLT Rapid City, Spirit FM Camdenton, WBGL Champaign, and WCIC Peoria. Lisa currently co-hosts the podcast Wow God Stories at WowGod.com. In her 33 years on Christian radio, she has served on-air at K-LOVE, Z88.3, Star 99.9, KCVO, and KCWN as well as hosting the syndicated show Life with Lisa Williams for 6 years in 15 states. Lisa lives in Denver with her sons JD and Jesse. You can find her at www.godsradiogirl.com.
How Traditional Media Is Leveraging YouTube For Growth…And Radio Can, Too
Traditional media outlets are becoming more savvy in how to leverage YouTube to grow their media empires. Everything from taped TV shows like Jimmy Fallon, Ellen, and Survivor, to live broadcasts of professional sporting events are using YouTube as an intentional part of their growth strategy. It makes sense because their online content often reaches far more viewers than the TV show ever will. Although their approach requires a shift in how content is generated, it’s a relatively simple shift to understand. Radio is perfectly positioned to take advantage of leveraging YouTube just like big Hollywood production studios do, but with a fraction of the budget.
Since 2011, Tim Schmoyer has been one of the leading YouTube strategists in the online video industry. His agency, Video Creators, has worked with industry giants such as Disney, Warner Brothers, HBO, eBay, and even YouTube itself. Through his agency’s guidance, they are responsible for their clients amassing over 20 billion views and 100 million subscribers on YouTube.
In 2021, vidIQ acquired Video Creators, where Tim now serves as Chief Creator Coach as he develops a robust coaching team to support the company’s extensive network of two million YouTube creators.
Today, he resides in Cincinnati, Ohio, with his wife and their seven children.
Creating Human Connections With Artificial Intelligence
When ChatGPT launched in late November 2022, it quickly became the fastest-growing internet app of all time, gaining more than 100 million users in just over a month. It enabled the average person to get hands-on experience with artificial intelligence (AI) that was previously used mainly by technology developers, and it showed the world how far the development of AI has come. Hear fascinating insights into how AI can be used to help you create, distribute, and optimize your content to reach the widest possible audience — and increase the impact of the work you and your teams do.
Maria Kestner is National Account Manager at Futuri, the leading provider of AI-driven content, audience, and monetization technology for media companies and creators. Prior to Futuri, she spent 16 years at Cox Media Group, where, working with properties like the ACM Award-winning K99.1 FM, she built genuine relationships with business owners by focusing on audience data, marketing trends, and a personalized approach to branding and growing market share. Kestner, who has a passion for the intersection of media, content, and technology, is based in the Dayton, Ohio area with her husband, four athletic kids, and the family dog.
Retention Rate: The New Metric For Measuring Hit Potential In Streaming Data
How can we make sense of streaming? Why is the data fundamentally different than other song performance measures? Learn how to calculate a song’s hit potential from streaming data. Plus, find out why a song’s initial streaming data isn’t reliable, and why you should ignore streaming rank numbers entirely.
One night when Matt was three, his dad gave him a little black transistor radio. He’s been a radio fanatic ever since. Today, Matt is the President of Integr8 Research, specializing in helping radio stations pick the right new music. In addition to once being an advertising copywriter for Salem’s 104.7 The Fish in Atlanta, Matt previously worked with iHeartMedia, Cox Media Group, and Coleman Insights.
The Connected Vehicle – An Opportunity For Radio
How listeners consume content in the vehicle is evolving rapidly! The great news…Radio is still the #1 source of entertainment inside the vehicle. Remaining competitive and relevant is the biggest question for radio. Join as we walk through how the Connected Car is evolving with the newest technology and how it is changing the listener experience in the vehicle.
As a strong supporter of radio’s future in connected platforms, Juan has spent the last decade working with broadcasters on the adoption of HD Radio, computer vision, connected devices, metadata and audio processing technologies. Juan’s passion for radio began at WXTU-FM, and continues to this day with stops along the way at WIHT-FM, WMZQ-FM, and WASH-FM in Washington, DC. Throughout his tenure at Xperi, Juan has advocated for broadcasters to utilize technology that enhances the listener experience. His work has helped stations around the world to improve their in-vehicle, mobile, connected device, and metadata delivery, ensuring a competitive listening experience in challenging ecosystems.
Steven Furtick is a pastor, Grammy-award winning songwriter & producer, & New York Times best-selling author. As founder & lead pastor, he has helped grow the multi-site Elevation Church into a global ministry through online streaming, television, & the music of Elevation Worship. He holds a master of divinity degree from Southern Theological Seminary & is the author of Crash the Chatterbox, Greater, Sun Stand Still, (Un)Qualified, Seven-Mile Miracle. Pastor Steven & Holly live in Charlotte, NC with their two sons, Elijah & Graham, & daughter, Abbey.
The Radio of the Future – Reaching More Listeners in More Places
Your listeners are changing how they listen to the radio and connecting with your stories and message. James, an international radio futurologist, brings ideas from across the world, showing how radio stations have taken advantage of new tools and technology to reach audiences wherever they are and however they want to listen. Get new ideas on how to level up your radio game and get the most value from your content, both on and off the air.
James Cridland is Editor of Podnews, the daily podcast newsletter. He is a radio futurologist – a writer, consultant and public speaker on radio’s future.
James has worked in audio since 1989 as an award-winning copywriter, radio presenter, and internet strategist.
He launched the world’s first streaming radio smartphone app in March 2005, for the original Virgin Radio in London, launching daily podcasts earlier that year.
In 2007 he joined the BBC working on the BBC iPlayer for radio, achieving a dramatic increase in the service’s audio quality.
Part of the team that laid the foundations for the UK Radioplayer, he has since worked for a variety of businesses across the world, including Canada’s Vista Radio, receiver and silicon manufacturers Pure and Frontier Silicon, talkSPORT, the ABC, and a variety of media companies in Europe, North America, Asia and Australia; helping them focus on the benefits and challenges that new platforms bring to their business. He was an advisor to podcast host Captivate, which was acquired by Global in December 2021.
One of the organisers of Next Radio, the UK radio ideas conference, James has worked with the world’s largest radio conference, Radiodays Europe, since its inception. He’s also part of the programming team for Radiodays Asia and Podcast Day 24.
A founder of the hybrid radio technology association RadioDNS, he is an Associate Member of the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, and was made an Honorary Life Member of the UK’s Student Radio Association.
Born in the UK, James lives in Brisbane, Australia with his wife and daughter.
Level Up Your Storytelling
All highly successful broadcasters and podcasters are great storytellers. Get ready to learn the #1 secret to telling a great story, and deliver your story out loud in this fun, highly interactive session. You’ll practice choosing a great story instead of a good story, how structure makes or breaks your story, the trick to short-attention-span storytelling, and why great content is never about a physical thing.
Have you ever wanted to go from good-to-great on the air, on-camera or on-stage as a media presenter, but you were not sure how to get there? In his tenth year as a talent coach with The Randy Lane Company, Jeff McHugh will share secrets on quick improvements that help any talent engage authentically with today’s short-attention span audiences, and long-term strategies for building an emotional bond with listeners that creates more loyal fans that any music format.
Jeff has coached winning presenters at Apple, Google, Meta, Sirius XM/Pandora, iHeart, Hubbard, Cumulus, Saga, Alpha, NBC Universal, Rogers Media in Canada, Groupo Imagen in Mexico and many others.
Decoding Gen Z for Radio
Gen Z and Millennials are the most studied generations in human history. Yet, we still don’t seem to understand them. How do we reach them through radio? What matters most to them, and how do we “meet” them there? It’s evident that we must engage them urgently and strategically. We will dive into how young people think, how to engage them with our platforms, and how they can play a vital role in radio moving forward.
Grant Skeldon has a passion for finding and uniting diverse, dynamic young leaders to reach this generation. He serves as the Next Gen Director for THINQ Media with Gabe and Rebekah Lyons. THINQ educates and equips Christians to engage our cultural moment.
He has written for The Wall Street Journal, Relevant, The Gospel Coalition, and is the youngest leader to be featured on the cover of Outreach Magazine. His book, The Passion Generation has helped thousands of pastors and leaders to reach, raise, and retain the next generation.
Grant and his wife Cheyanne reside in Nashville, Tennessee, where he serves on the preaching team at Way Church.
Power Up The Music: Put Your Finger On the Pulse
Radio stations in general, and especially Christian stations in particular, are making three critical mistakes in collecting data and applying research to their music mix. Learn the three critical reasons your station may be limiting your appeal to a larger audience and effectively chasing listeners away from your station. Hear clear, actionable steps to get more people, including Gen Z, involved with your music research.
I’ve loved influencing audiences since I turned on a microphone in Central Nebraska as a 14-year-old with no idea what I was doing. At 21, I hosted the morning show and programmed a top-rated station (KFRX) in Lincoln, Ne.
I’ve been a music director, Program Director, Consultant, Operations Manager, Market Brand Manager, and Director of Audience Engagement (Triton Digital).
I was named Best Radio Programmer in America by Radio Ink magazine.
I earned multiple PD and Station of the Year awards from media trade publications.
I led two brands in San Diego from worst to first in three years.
My book Morning Radio is described as The Bible of Personality Radio and is used by media personalities worldwide.
But one thing has been the backbone of my career: We help personalities and programmers find their voice and reach their potential by helping them see the forest for the trees and meeting listeners where they are, not where we would like them to be.
Harnessing the Power of Vision Casting
Based on the story of Nehemiah, Ken will reveal the formula for influencing people to accomplish your mission.
Ken Coleman is a two-time national bestselling author, host of The Ken Coleman Show, and co-host of the nationally syndicated Ramsey Show. Since 2014, he has served at Ramsey Solutions, where he offers expert advice to help people make more income, create a bigger impact, and win at work and in life. Coleman has helped thousands of people identify what they do best, the work they love doing, and the results that matter deeply to them.
His second book, The Proximity Principle: The Proven Strategy That Will Lead To The Career You Love, released May 2019.
Finding “Why”
Understanding the psychology of sales is key to fostering lasting relationships with donors, underwriters, or advertisers. Dive into the motivations of supporters, the interplay of emotion and logic in decision-making, and the pivotal role of storytelling. Ideal for anyone on the revenue side of radio.
Pat Bryson has worked in the radio industry for over 25 years. During that time, she was one of the highest billing salespeople in the radio industry in her market. She was promoted to General Sales Director, managing and training both experienced and inexperienced salespeople. Her career advanced to General Director where Pat created a culture of over- achievement for her stations.
Pat is a graduate of the University of Tulsa with a degree in Mass Communications-Radio/TV. She was also the recipient of two prestigious educational fellowships from the Education Foundation of the National Association of Broadcasters: a fellowship to the Executive Development Program, held at Georgetown University in 2004 and a fellowship to the Broadcast Leadership Training Program in 2005.
Since founding Bryson Broadcasting International in 2006, Pat has worked with broadcasters in Kazakhstan, Albania, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Poland, Canada, Malta, Australia and has been a featured speaker at Radiodays Europe in Dublin, Radiodays in Denmark, Radiodays in Sweden, Radiodays Asia, Radio Conference Poland, Krakfilm Festival, EGTA in Zurich, the Gospel Music Association of Canada, the Ontario Association of Broadcasters, Asian Broadcast Union, the Australian National Radio Convention, the Broadcast Education Association during the National Association of Broadcasters Convention in Las Vegas, and the Consultant’s Corner at the National Association of Broadcasters’ Radio Show. She has also conducted training seminars for the many of the State Associations in the United States.
Pat is one of Radio Ink’s Most Influential Women in Radio for 2023. This is the third time she has been so designated.
She is the author of “A Road Map To Success In High-Dollar Broadcast Sales” and a new book released in November 2020, “Successful Broadcast Sales: Thriving in Change.
Understanding and Leading Through Change
Whether you are a leader by title or by influence, understanding and leading through change is an essential skill for your toolbox. Explore why change is hard and how gaining insight into yourself and others simplifies the process. We are all better leaders by understanding the keys to communicating change.
Janet Cherry is the Principal of JC Leadership Group, enjoying a successful 25-year career marked by her expertise in developing thriving and profitable organizations, particularly during times of growth and significant change. With an extensive background encompassing diverse industries and Chief level positions, she brings invaluable insights into effective organizational and people strategies and a track record of successful execution.
At the core of Janet’s leadership philosophy is the belief that the most effective leaders strike a balance between people and results. This approach goes beyond merely achieving objectives and driving outcomes; it entails prioritizing the cultivation of strong relationships with team members while ensuring personal well-being. Although implementing this balanced leadership style presents challenges, it can yield numerous benefits, including an enriched and inspired workforce, heightened job satisfaction, and sustained organizational success.
Janet’s impact within organizations is evident through tangible returns on investments, such as a deeper leadership bench, reduced turnover rates, and impressive culture ratings. Moreover, she places a strong emphasis on enjoying the process and fostering a sense of comradery and fun throughout the journey of leadership.
The PD Mission To Insure Listener Tribe, Connection & Trust
Join the lively conversation focusing on the importance of a local tribe, fame development, Familiar Surprise™, creation of wonder and the role each plays in creating an actual brand as personality.
Loyd has programmed in small, medium, large and major markets in the U.S. and was the Senior Ratings Strategist for a major stealth marketing company for over a decade working directly with the ratings teams of virtually every major broadcast company and many local broadcasters coast to coast. He regularly created innovative contests, marketing strategies and data-driven solutions for unique ratings challenges broadcasters regularly face during that time. He currently serves as the president and CEO of Rainmaker Pathway Consulting Works (RPC) and provides coaching for both on-air and sales talent, music research, station architecture and branding. He is host of The Encouragers™ The Radio Rally™ podcast (Apple, Audible, Spotify), writes a weekly column for RadioInk.com and has over 830+ articles of encouragement to “encourage radio pros at all levels” on his company website. Today Loyd lives in Fort Myers, Florida with his wife Theresa and their dog Spiderman.
How to Become an Emotionally Healthy Leader
There’s more noise in the world than ever before. However, you don’t have to be a victim to it. Healthy leaders learn to turn down the noise low enough and long enough to be ruthlessly curious of what’s going on inside of themselves and their teams. Learn how to level up as a leader in a world of distraction for the sake of those whom you have the privilege of leading.
Clay is the author of the best-selling books How to Lead When You’re Not in Charge, How to Lead in a World of Distraction, and The Aspiring Leader’s Guide to the Future. He holds a degree in Industrial Engineering from Georgia Tech as well as a Master’s degree and Doctorate with an emphasis in Online Church from Dallas Theological Seminary.
For almost 20 years, Clay Scroggins served in many pastoral roles at North Point Ministries, a multisite church started in Alpharetta, Georgia led by Andy Stanley. Most recently, Clay served as the lead pastor of Buckhead Church, one of North Point’s largest campuses.
Clay is now speaking and writing about leadership, faith, and golf. He’s making a career out of the first two and actively trying to convince his wife that the latter has potential.
Clay lives in Atlanta, Georgia, with his wife, Jenny, and their five children.
The AI Enabled Broadcaster – Rewiring Your Organization for the AI Age
Is AI a threat or a tool for radio? How can it be used to move forward your organization’s mission? Explore how broadcasters can embrace AI rapidly, practically, and ethically. Discover the next steps to integrate this emerging technology into your broadcasting, social media, and operations to rewire your organization for the age of AI.
James Poulter is a distinguished digital marketing professional and technology expert, with a particular emphasis on Conversational AI strategy. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Vixen Labs, James has been instrumental in establishing the company as Europe’s leading full-service Voice Agency. Vixen Labs specializes in voice consultancy and design, assisting brands in leveraging voice-first technology and conversational interfaces for effective communication and promotion.
A recognized authority in Conversational AI Technologies, James has extensive experience in the ethical use of AI, corporate deployment of advanced AI systems such as ChatGPT and GPT-4, and the integration of conversational AI into marketing and business strategies.
In 2018, James founded Poulter Ventures, a strategic consulting firm providing start-up and scale-up advisory services, focusing on innovation, culture building, and the metaverse. As Principal Advisor, he shares his insights on integrating Conversational AI technologies into various industries, ensuring ethical and responsible AI practices.
As a part-time Start-Up Advisor for Strategy & Innovation at Impact Central since 2020, James offers guidance to social impact start-ups and scale-ups dedicated to creating businesses that contribute positively to society and the environment. His expertise spans innovation, culture, marketing, and digital transformation, with a special focus on integrating Conversational AI solutions ethically and sustainably.
Before founding Vixen Labs, James served as the Head of The LEGO Group’s Emerging Platforms & Partnerships team, where he successfully identified and collaborated with innovative technologies and partners, bolstering LEGO’s digital engagement globally.
James has an extensive background in marketing, advertising, and public relations, having worked with esteemed agencies such as Edelman and Ogilvy. He has managed digital marketing, mobile, and social campaigns for a diverse clientele, including Diageo, Unilever, Bose, PayPal, HP, and Adobe, both in the EMEA region and globally. His expertise in Conversational AI strategy has played a pivotal role in driving results for these clients.
In addition to his professional pursuits, James is an advisor to the Church of England’s digital board and offers support to various charities, entrepreneurs, and start-ups, often providing insights on the ethical implementation of Conversational AI technologies.
5 Signs of Being an Emotionally Stuck Leader…That I Wish I Hadn’t Missed
Leading a team. Leading yourself. Which is most comfortable for you? Both have unique challenges, but there is a strong connection between the two because you are the only person who can give your ministry a healthy leader. Let’s explore areas where we tend to get stuck and discover some healthy steps to take while serving in ministry leadership.
Sandi Brown is the founder and President of JOY FM / BOOST RADIO. She has been on the airwaves of St. Louis radio for over 35 years. Sandi has written 3 books, including Healing Out Loud. She also worked as a Producer and Creative Writer for Focus on the Family. Sandi and her husband, Mike, have 3 kids and 2 redheaded grandsons.
Get a Grip On Your Business: Solving the People Problem
What would it look like if 100% of your team comprised of the right people in the right seats in your organization? It is possible! Using the tools and disciplines from EOS (the Entrepreneurial Operating System), you will walk away with a process you can use immediately to solve people issues, create greater clarity, and produce the “dream team” you’ve always wanted.
Curt Swindoll’s career has spanned six industry sectors where he has served in multiple C-level roles and consulted in operations, strategic planning, business development, fundraising and marketing, board development, and more.
He has provided advisory council to dozens of Christian ministries and senior leaders, and was Chair at WAY-FM when the decision was made to merge with KSBJ/Hope Media Group. He plays the bass guitar in his church worship band which offers many lessons on leadership.
In 2000, Curt earned a Presidential/Key Executive MBA at the Graziadio (GRAHTS-zee-ah-DEE-oh) School of Business and Management at Pepperdine University, and taught for several years in BIOLA University’s Masters in Organizational Leadership program on nonprofit leadership and management. He posts regularly on business and leadership issues, based on his personal journey and integrating his faith with his work.
Creating Value-Added Partnerships
Partnerships are our lifeblood. Built upon a level of understanding, we help them achieve objectives they wouldn’t think were possible. To do this, it takes a level of conversation that goes well beyond what we might be comfortable with. Our partners have options about where to invest their time and money; it’s our job to ensure they see radio as the best option.
Mark Hunter, “The Sales Hunter” is recognized as one of the top 50 most influential sales and marketing leaders in the world. He is author of multiple books, including “High-Profit Prospecting” and “A Mind for Sales.” Mark can also be heard on The Sales Hunter Podcast and Sales Logic Podcast.
Mark has spoken in more than 30 countries on 5 continents and travels more than 150 days per year working with people helping to show them how to find and retain better clients.
Best of all, Mark gets to wake up each morning thanking the Lord for his family and the ability to serve Him.
The Conflict Compass
Imagine if you could transform conflict into a catalyst for growth and success. Rather than shying away or mishandling conflict, you could harness its potential. Introducing The Conflict Compass which will empower you and your team with the tools and strategies to navigate obstacles and seize opportunities. Master the art of resolving conflict and watch as great relationships flourish within your team. Wave goodbye to toxic work environments and hello to successful teamwork.
For the past twenty years, John Barrett has been a trusted and inspiring leader in the professional world. His extraordinary expertise in coaching, speaking, and writing has made him an invaluable asset to individuals, entrepreneurs, Fortune 500 companies, and non-profits alike. With a deep commitment to helping leaders reach their full potential, John’s impact is invaluable as he encourages creative growth strategies that are tailored for success. A true innovator in the field of leadership development, John Barrett remains dedicated to changing the world one day at a time.
3 Secrets for Becoming a Better Fundraiser
Becoming a better fundraiser starts when you are not fundraising. How can you use your everyday show to prepare you for the next pledge drive, sharathon, fundraiser, etc? Using demonstrations and audio examples, walk away with three practical tools to help you become a better and more confident fundraiser.
Named one of Radio Ink Magazine’s Top 50 Program Directors in America, Mandy Young has been in radio for nearly 25 years.
She started her career in Grand Rapids, Michigan at WJQK as Promotions Director and eventually found her way to the Morning Show.
After 10 years in West Michigan, Mandy took the role of Morning Show Co-Host at Air1 and has been with EMF since 2009. Serving in roles with the ministry such as Music Director, APD and Program Director, Mandy is currently the Vice President of Radio for both K-LOVE and Air1.
Mandy has been helping stations across the country fundraise for 20 years. She’s currently a top fundraiser on K-LOVE and Air1 and also helps talent achieve success in this field.
Mandy is a graduate of Cedarville University with a degree in Communications and Music.
Young and her husband Rod reside in Nashville, TN. They have 2 sons in college (Jack and Owen) and a 10 year old daughter (Mamie).
A Collaborative Workshop: How Your Role Impacts Your Station’s Revenue
Every position at your station – whether on-air, programming, promotions, digital, or other areas, plays a pivotal role in driving revenue. In this interactive workshop, you’ll collaborate with your peers to discuss ways to enhance your contribution based on your role at your station. By leveraging collective knowledge and diverse experiences, you’ll uncover new insights and best practices.
Jeff Scott has been with WBGL for 21 years. He serves several stations across the country as an on-air fundraiser including KTIS, Word FM, and KLRC. He challenges those he works with to “Go deep, not wide” when it comes to relationships with listeners/donors. He has been married to his awesome wife, Shari, for 35 years, has 3 grown children, and by the time of this event, he will be Papa to his second grandchild…Luna’s little brother.
Put the FUN Back in Fundraising: 3 Steps to Raise the Money Your Station Needs
You CAN raise the money you need to cover your station’s expenses without begging, feeling pushy, or stepping too far outside your comfort zone. It just takes the right message to the right people at the right time. Learn the basics of donor-based fundraising and how simple raising money can be when you free yourself from outdated techniques. Explore how to find ideal donor prospects, how to craft a heart-warming, wallet-opening message, and do it all with perfect timing so people never feel over-asked.
Sandy Rees is the founder and director of Get Fully Funded where she shows passionate nonprofit leaders how to fully fund their big vision so they can spend more time changing lives instead of worrying about money. She got her start raising money for a homeless shelter and a food bank and since then has gone on to help thousands of small nonprofits go from “nickel-and-dime fundraising” to adding 6 figures to their bottom line. As a trainer, she shows her students how to find ideal donors, connect through authentic messaging, and build relationships that stand the test of time, so that fundraising becomes easy and predictable. Find out more at GetFullyFunded.com.
Al Andrews is the Founder and Executive Director of Porter’s Call, a non-profit in Franklin, TN that has offered free counsel, support, and encouragement to recording artists since 2001. He’s written a couple of books, The Boy, the Kite, and the Wind and A Walk One Winter Night. He loves southern novels (Wendell Berry, Pat Conroy), poetry (Mary Oliver and Billy Collins), and is quite partial to chicken wings and movies at the Belcourt Theater in Nashville.
Performance Based Resume
The first goal for many college graduates is to find a job and, if possible, have that first job be the first step in creating a career. But before you can get that job, you need to apply for that job and, before that, you need to build a resume that will get you noticed. Find out how to build a performance based resume that is sure to make you an attractive candidate.
Brian is passionate about leadership and culture while creating paths for people and organizations to achieve their dreams. While working in the music industry for about 25 years, he cultivated his desire for these things. Brian now leads Prime Dialogue – focusing on creating best in class people and organizations through relationship. He has created the Cycle Of Belonging – a training on how to create a culture of belonging. Brian also teaches leadership one-on-one, with teams, or larger organizations to help people move from expert player to expert leader. His PRIME concept helps create a winning plan for starting or growing a business, product development or brand creation. In his spare time Brian is also an official Disney Trip Planner!
Art of Interviewing
Christian music listeners love the music that CCM artists create. As an on-air talent, how do you help connect them to the artist themselves? Learn how “the art of interviewing” can create impactful content for your station and create a memorable experience for your listener. Topics to be covered include how to prepare for an interview, what questions to ask and when, and how to create an environment for the artist (and you) to shine.
As a Nine-time GRAMMY® nominee and Five-time GMA Dove Awards Female Vocalist of the Year, Natalie Grant has become an icon in Christian & Gospel music. In addition to garnering more than 500 million streams and multiple number #1 albums and singles on the Billboard Charts, she is also a respected author and philanthropist. She is the co-founder of Hope for Justice, a non-profit organization in the fight against human trafficking, which has 32 offices across 9 countries and 5 continents and has helped 102,803 children in the last year.
For nearly twenty years, Erin Branham has been implementing digital technology for Brighter Media Group, where she currently serves as Creative Services and Social Media Director. She’s well-versed in utilizing digital and social media, text, and email to help her organization develop a strong relationship with its audience. Outside of her work at Brighter Media Group, she runs a popular health and fitness podcast…which means if she hands you a slice of chocolate cake, don’t be surprised if zucchini is hidden inside.
Post This, Not That
We are going to take examples of digital content that’s… well… just ok, and work as a team to turn them into content that makes an impact. As we go, we’ll uncover the strategies for creating digital content that connects and serves your audience well, but also achieves your goals for long-term success. We’ll work with web posts, social posts, thumbnails, email and text blasts, and video concepts.
Zach Boehm is the VP of Digital Content for Hope Media Group. He loves Christian radio’s impact and wants to see it reach more people in deeper ways. He’s passionate about leveraging digital tools to serve people with fun and meaningful content on any platform they use.
Previous to his current role, Zach was WayFM’s music director and produced The Wally Show. His start in Christian radio was producing K-LOVE’s Morning Show with Jon and Sherry Rivers and 20 The Countdown Magazine.
Art of Interviewing
Christian music listeners love the music that CCM artists create. As an on-air talent, how do you help connect them to the artist themselves? Learn how “the art of interviewing” can create impactful content for your station and create a memorable experience for your listener. Topics to be covered include how to prepare for an interview, what questions to ask and when, and how to create an environment for the artist (and you) to shine.
Named one of Radio Ink Magazine’s Top 50 Program Directors in America, Mandy Young has been in radio for nearly 25 years.
She started her career in Grand Rapids, Michigan at WJQK as Promotions Director and eventually found her way to the Morning Show.
After 10 years in West Michigan, Mandy took the role of Morning Show Co-Host at Air1 and has been with EMF since 2009. Serving in roles with the ministry such as Music Director, APD and Program Director, Mandy is currently the Vice President of Radio for both K-LOVE and Air1.
Mandy has been helping stations across the country fundraise for 20 years. She’s currently a top fundraiser on K-LOVE and Air1 and also helps talent achieve success in this field.
Mandy is a graduate of Cedarville University with a degree in Communications and Music. Young and her husband Rod reside in Nashville. They have 2 sons in college (Jack and Owen) and a 10 year old daughter (Mamie).
Cycle of Belonging
Do you know what it feels like to belong? The feeling of finding your people? This is apparent in our personal lives, but what about inside the place you work? We are in a perpetual cycle of joining something, trying to find our place, feeling entitled, trying to own our lane, and feeling like we fit in somewhere. Understanding this cycle and putting language to what we are feeling can help you and your organization build a culture of belonging.
Brian is passionate about leadership and culture while creating paths for people and organizations to achieve their dreams. While working in the music industry for about 25 years, he cultivated his desire for these things. Brian now leads Prime Dialogue – focusing on creating best in class people and organizations through relationship. He has created the Cycle Of Belonging – a training on how to create a culture of belonging. Brian also teaches leadership one-on-one, with teams, or larger organizations to help people move from expert player to expert leader. His PRIME concept helps create a winning plan for starting or growing a business, product development or brand creation. In his spare time Brian is also an official Disney Trip Planner!
Kelly Blackwell • Music Director / Midday Host – The Promise FM
Chad Bradley • Morning Show Host / Podcast Director – The River (WCVO)
Erin Branham • Creative Services Director – Brighter Media Group (WRBS)
Chad Davis • Marketing & Media Relations – Awakening Events
Rob Dempsey • Station Manager – HIS Radio Network
Candice Grey • Midday Host – The JOY FM
Suzanne Happs • Station Manager – KGBI
Josh Hooper • Program Director – The River (WCVO)
Jeremy Louis • Program Director – JOY FM (KLJY)
Doc Maranville • Managing Director / Programming & Digital – The Light FM (WMIT)
Bill Martin • Morning Show Host – The JOY FM
Matt McNeilly • Station Manager – Moody Radio
Jeff Scott • Station Manager – WBGL
Pat Scott • CEO – The Promise FM
Johnny Stone • Afternoon Show Host – WGTS
Stacey Stone • Afternoon Show Host – WGTS
Jonathan Unthank • Assistant Director, Programming & Content – The Light FM (WMIT)
Andrew Wilson • Director of Promotions & Engagement – Moody Radio
Nik Curtis Beal • Founder – Bandkind
Radio 101
You’ll hear about the best way to go about finding your first radio job. Plus, you’ll learn about the positions inside of a radio station, and why it’s vital for everyone to work together toward a common purpose. Then, get equipped with resources to help you keep in the know about the latest trends in the radio industry.
After spending 30+ years working at some really great radio stations, Todd Stach launched a coaching and consulting business, Beyond615.com, on March 15, 2021. There he strives to help others build confidence so that they can connect on a deeper level. He and his family live in the (615) area code, aka the heart of the CCM industry. Todd volunteered as a consultant and talent coach for many years at Cedarville University’s student radio station. He also taught post secondary radio classes for Mount Vernon Nazarene University at Mansfield Christian School for two years. Currently, Todd serves as a talent coach/consultant at Olivet University’s SHINE.FM.
Theater of the Mind
Let’s look at how to create compelling content by unlocking the power of “Theater of the Mind.” We’ll explore how powerful our brains can be when creating memorable experiences for the listener, what “constructing a set” looks like for an on-air talent, and how to know when to “exit stage left.”
During the afternoon commute or homework hour in Washington, DC, Stacey Stone finds ways to bring faith to life and an encouraging message to the listeners of WGTS 91.9. Stacey has 30 years of on-air experience, including 23 in Christian radio, and is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a private practice. She loves to speak Jesus, hope, faith and laughter to the listeners, staff, and donors of WGTS 91.9 in the Washington, DC metro along with her husband Johnny Stone. She is also a Texan who still carries the swagger of her home state along with a little of the accent. Stacey is also a writer, popular speaker and the author of The Rescued Breed: When Jesus Shows Up and Transforms Your Pack.
Featuring:
Transitioning from College to the Pros
Graduating from college and moving into your career can be challenging. What can you do now to prepare for that next step? Hear from General Managers at industry leading stations as they share what they’re looking for in candidates, what kind of experience they like to see on a resume, and what their advice might be for students preparing to work at a radio station.
Rob’s career began in 1987 as a volunteer at a small station in New Port Richey, Florida. In 1988, he was hired by The Joy FM in Tampa Bay, Florida for a weekend airshift. It was there Rob rose through the ranks. Within two years, he became Production Director. Soon after, Rob was promoted to the Afternoon Drive announcer and Program Director.
In 2000, Rob accepted a position as Program Director and Morning Drive Host at their sister station, HIS Radio in Greenville, South Carolina. In 2002, Rob was promoted to Operations Director. At that time, HIS Radio served three markets in the Carolinas. Today, he is the Network Station Manager overseeing nine markets throughout the Carolinas and Georgia, and he serves on the RTN Executive Committee.
Building a Radio Marketing Campaign
Let’s work together to build a marketing campaign for a radio station. We’ll take a look at the station’s objectives, assess our stakeholders, and identify the best way to tell our story to our current listeners and potential listeners.
Carl is the Director or Marketing at Northwestern Media in St. Paul, MN. In this role, he gets to help Northwestern Media stations tell their stories. Now that their kids are grown, he and his wife enjoy traveling to find trails to run.
What? Like It’s Hard?
Legally Blonde’s Elle Woods said it best: Finding a job in marketing or promotions doesn’t have to be hard! You’ll walk away from this breakout session with a better understanding of what it takes to be successful in promotions, marketing, and community engagement.
Jordan Smith has 18 years of experience in the record and radio industries, that all started in Portland, OR at Salem Communications. After 5 years of leading the marketing and promotions team for KFIS and KPDQ, a job posting caught her eye that would put her on the other side of the radio industry. Never one to shy away from moving across the country for a job, she headed to Nashville, TN to work on the record label side of the industry at both Tooth & Nail Records and Capitol CMG as a National Promotion Manager. After 7 years of building great relationships with programmers across the country and working together on countless #1 singles, Jordan decided to head back to radio in 2017, joining the team at KSBJ and NGEN in Houston, TX. After wrapping up her time as the Director of Promotions and Marketing at 89.3 KSBJ and 91.7 NGEN, Jordan headed back to Nashville where she now works for EMF as Marketing Director for K-LOVE and Air1.
I Heard it on the Radio!
Have you ever heard a song for the first time on the radio and then a few short weeks later realize that’s your new favorite song? It happens all the time! Come learn how songs go from an idea to #1 on the radio charts.
Since 2005, Charles Van Dyke has been helping Christian radio stations bring encouraging songs and programming to their listeners. He has had the privilege of working with some of today’s top artists including Brandon Lake, CAIN, Casting Crowns, Dolly Parton, H.E.R., Matthew West, Steven Curtis Chapman, Tauren Wells, Zach Williams, and many more. His career has included breaking new artists, achieving numerous #1 songs, and creating marketing campaigns for new releases.
Transitioning from College to the Pros
Graduating from college and moving into your career can be challenging. What can you do now to prepare for that next step? Hear from General Managers at industry leading stations as they share what they’re looking for in candidates, what kind of experience they like to see on a resume, and what their advice might be for students preparing to work at a radio station.
Suzanne grew up using anything she could as a microphone… a banana, stick from the yard… anything. With 20+ years of experience in Christian radio, Suzanne’s passion is for a culture where people skip to work each day, knowing everything they do, even the mundane, points people to Jesus. In addition to serving as Station Manager for Life 100.7 in Omaha, Suzanne serves as Regional Manager, overseeing Northwestern Media stations in Fargo, Rapid City and Sioux Falls.
Transitioning from College to the Pros
Graduating from college and moving into your career can be challenging. What can you do now to prepare for that next step? Hear from General Managers at industry leading stations as they share what they’re looking for in candidates, what kind of experience they like to see on a resume, and what their advice might be for students preparing to work at a radio station.
Personally impacted by Christian radio, Dave became a Christ follower and answered God’s call, moving from mainstraim to Christian radio in 1994. In addition to serving as station manager for 98.5 KTIS / Minneapolis-St. Paul, Dave serves as Regional Manager, overseeing Northwestern Media stations in Des Moines, Waterloo, and Duluth. Dave and his wife Rachel are thankful for their two adult daughters who both love Jesus.
Navigating Tomorrow: How Technology Can Empower Strategy, Marketing and Your Team
Technology is rapidly changing, and how we utilize it is an essential question every leader must wrestle with. Should we incorporate AI to support our teams? If so, then how do we do it effectively? What resources are available to help us accomplish our mission? Join us for a time to look at some of the leading technological tools at our disposal and how they can increase the efficiency and productivity of your team.
Kyle lives in Franklin, TN with his wife and 2 daughters. One of his favorite things, other than golf, is helping people succeed. Over the past 15 years he’s focused on helping brands excel in digital marketing through content execution and marketing strategy. Currently, he holds the YouTube Strategy Director position at Business Made Simple, where they help and resource small business owners. He’s worked with artists such as David Crowder, for KING & COUNTRY, Jeremy Camp, Casting Crowns, We The Kingdom, Tye Tribbett, Hannah Ellis, Sarah Reeves, and many more.
A Unique Path to Radio Success
Join us for “A Unique Path to Radio Success” as we explore entering the world of radio broadcasting. We’ll discuss the importance of forging your distinctive journey, whether through traditional or unconventional means. Discover how hospitality fosters meaningful connections with your audience and how recognizing your leadership potential, even as a newcomer, can propel your career. From starting at the grassroots level and working your way up to embracing change as a positive force, we’ll emphasize the value in these experiences. Throughout, we’ll highlight the shared humanity between broadcasters and their audience, showing that your path to radio success is as unique as you are.
Jeremy has impacted the West Michigan airwaves for almost two decades. As part of a top-rated morning show in the Grand Rapids, Michigan market, Jeremy has worked alongside his co-host (and wife) Amanda, to form meaningful connections with their audience. His passion for the radio, combined with his recent completion of a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Cornerstone University, showcases his commitment to both personal and professional growth. With a bachelor’s degree in communications from Grand Valley State University in 2003, Jeremy is equipped with a solid foundation in effective communication and on-air expertise, supported by hospitality and ongoing faith.
A Unique Path to Radio Success
Join us for “A Unique Path to Radio Success” as we explore entering the world of radio broadcasting. We’ll discuss the importance of forging your distinctive journey, whether through traditional or unconventional means. Discover how hospitality fosters meaningful connections with your audience and how recognizing your leadership potential, even as a newcomer, can propel your career. From starting at the grassroots level and working your way up to embracing change as a positive force, we’ll emphasize the value in these experiences. Throughout, we’ll highlight the shared humanity between broadcasters and their audience, showing that your path to radio success is as unique as you are.
Amanda has been in Christian radio since 1999 and has co-hosted Your Family Friendly Morning Show on WCSG since 2012. In addition to her role on the morning show, she also serves as the music director for the station and assists several other stations through voice tracking (SOS Radio, FamilyLife, Joy Worship, and Pulse 101.7). She and her husband/co-host, Jeremy, share an office, a house, six kids, and a Bernedoodle named Mae, in addition to also sharing a passion for serving their listeners. In her spare time, Amanda enjoys being outside, baking, and watching their kids at all the things. She’s also working to get her master’s degree in nonprofit leadership, which she hopes to complete next December.
Music & Programming: Guiding the Airwaves
The Music & Programming Director plays a vital role at a radio station. This position guides the staff in effectively communicating the station’s mission, offering hope and encouragement to the listeners every day. Explore the core responsibilities and the art of creating engaging and inspiring radio. Discover the skills and qualities needed to succeed in this pivotal position.
Growing up in the Chicago suburbs, Jeremy’s life was forever changed from listening to the radio, literally. From inviting Jesus into his life after hearing a radio program to catching the radio ‘bug’ while listening to stellar radio dramas, he was always listening to whatever radio he could find. He loved recording his own “radio shows“ and dreaming of the ways God would use this technology to reach people with a message of hope. The last 20+ years, his radio journey has taken him from Chicago, to Nebraska, Oklahoma, NW Arkansas and for the last 9 years in St. Louis. He currently serves as Program/Music Director for 99.1 JOY FM (KLJY).
Fun facts: He met his wife at Moody Bible Institute where they both studied radio broadcasting, which even led to them working at a station together several years later. They have four kids (adopting their 2 oldest from Ethiopia in 2013) and as a family they have a great time cheering on St Louis CITY SC as season ticket holders!
Post This, Not That
We are going to take examples of digital content that’s… well… just ok, and work as a team to turn them into content that makes an impact. As we go, we’ll uncover the strategies for creating digital content that connects and serves your audience well, but also achieves your goals for long-term success. We’ll work with web posts, social posts, thumbnails, email and text blasts, and video concepts.
Jake Townsend is the Manager of Social Media for Hope Media Group. He loves creating digital content that makes people laugh, cry (good tears of course), and reminds them they’re not alone. Starting out in promotions at WayFM back in 2014, He believes in Christian radio and how it is making a difference in this broken world.
Post This, Not That
We are going to take examples of digital content that’s… well… just ok, and work as a team to turn them into content that makes an impact. As we go, we’ll uncover the strategies for creating digital content that connects and serves your audience well, but also achieves your goals for long-term success. We’ll work with web posts, social posts, thumbnails, email and text blasts, and video concepts.
Kaylee Farrar is the Manager of Digital Content for Hope Media Group. She is an experienced producer, project manager, and copywriter. She is passionate about using creative media to point the world to Jesus and believes in the power of good storytelling.
Yes, You Can Grow Your Audience. Here’s How…
Radio is shrinking, that we know. So is it still possible to grow your audience? Yes, it is. We will show the two types of future listeners and how to attract each. Are your future listeners in Church? Don’t bet on it! Learn storytelling strategies that speak to each group and show what types of content and financial support you must explore if you really aim to grow and remain relevant in the lives of listeners with infinite choices and scarce attention.
Mark Ramsey is proud to do a ton of research for Christian broadcasters in markets large and small across America. He has probably been at the decision table for more strategic presentations at more Christian radio stations than any other research company in America. He has invested much of his career helping our stations reach more listeners while staying true to our mission and values. He is proud to call many of the stations in this room clients and many of you his friends.
Mark is also at the forefront of the podcast space, not in research but on the creative side. He has several series that ranked in Apple’s top five with Wondery. He produced a dramatic series that starred David Harbour and Jeffrey Dean Morgan. He wrote and created two series – FADE IN and DARK SANCTUM – that received numerous award nominations. Currently he is working on projects with Margaret Atwood, author of The Handmaid’s Tale, and he is the creator of the all-new faith-forward dramatic podcast version of A Christmas Carol for Hope Media Group, starring Sean Astin as Ebenezer Scrooge.
Research may be his specialty, but creating content that moves hearts and souls and helping his clients to do the same is his passion.
As a ministry entrepreneur, Will wants you to experience the benefits of stunning, God-given clarity. A pastor turned vision coach, he’s invested 20,000 hours over 20 years working with an unprecedented variety of church teams from mega-churches and missional communities, to mainline revitalizations and church plants. Will has founded several interconnected organizations that help the church embody the movement that Jesus founded. His visionary planning tools, the Vision Frame and the Horizon Storyline, are used by thousands of churches every year, accelerated by his calling to raise up other consultants and trainers. He currently leads the coaching ministry he founded in 2023, the Run Free Company. Many church leaders know him from other organizations he’s started including Auxano in 2004, Younique in 2014 and Denominee in 2019.
The Younique LifePlan System exists to deliver gospel-centered life design through the church. It is now the world’s only comprehensive, biblically-based, open source, life planning system. In addition to authoring Younique: Designing the Life God Dreamed for You, Will has published six other books including, Future Church, God Dreams, Innovating Discipleship, and Church Unique. He lives in Houston with his wife Romy and last child at home, Poema. His other three adult children all live in Texas and have blessed him with four grandchildren.
When We Sing Together: Life Lessons from the Choir
Our world seems more divided each day, and few people find flourishing community amidst so many competing worldviews. But the solution is not found in uniformity or conformity but in genuine unity despite differences. And love has a sound. That’s what Dwan Hill learned in the choir, and the choir is back. Learn how lessons from the choir can impact the strategy of your station both internally and externally.
Dwan Hill is a 3x GRAMMY award-winning, 2x Dove award-winning, 2x ASCAP Rhythm and Soul award winning, singer-songwriter, producer, musician, writer, and church leader based in Nashville, TN. In addition to completing his Bachelors of Music Education and Masters of Composition degrees at Belmont University, Dwan has toured worldwide as the music director for CeCe Winans, as well as with renowned artists such as Lauren Daigle, Jonny Lang, Drew Holcomb & The Neighbors, Tauren Wells. Most recently, he spends much of his time in Music City writing songs for Integrity Music in partnership with his own publishing companies, Big Buddy Music and Let Them Hear. His chart-topping songs as songwriter, publisher, or producer include two #1 gospel radio hits “Believe For It” by CeCe Winans and “He’s My Rock” by Bri Babineaux. Known for his creative approach and quirky style, Dwan delivers a sound that is wonderfully nostalgic and yet refreshing, combining 70’s influences with a modern flare. At the heart of his creativity and inspiration is Dwan’s love of teaching others. Whether leading a small group of young men, speaking to creatives on his “Hey Wise Guys” podcast, or serving in his home church, Dwan enjoys riveting conversation and the challenge of making complex ideas simple. He has had the honor of being a featured speaker and special guest performer for InQuiker, NAMM, WorshipLife (LifeWay), GMA Immerse Conference, and TEDx Talks. Dwan’s most prized treasures are his wife Laura and their children Tobin and Nyla.
P1 Listeners: Insights Into Who They Really Are
Rick Dunham will unveil yet-to-be-released findings from the latest Dunham+Company research study on P1 listeners to Christian music radio. These findings will be compared to findings from the groundbreaking P1 study they conducted in 2021. In this second-ever study of its kind, you will be the first to see the results of who your P1s are, what media these super fans consume, how they differ from other listeners, and why they do or don’t financially support their favorite station.
For over four decades, Rick Dunham has been at the forefront of marketing and fundraising for Christian nonprofits. In 2002, he founded Dunham+Company, which has become a global leader in providing multi-channel strategies across some of the world’s most influential sectors. Through radio and television, local churches and overseas missions, medical relief and philanthropic initiatives, Dunham+Company is multiplying the reach of the gospel. The company currently serves nearly 100 clients in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand – whose collective effort is reaching nearly every corner of the globe.
Rick holds a BA from Biola University and a ThM from Dallas Theological Seminary. From devotionals to blogs, webinars to books, Rick’s personal faith in Jesus and his biblical training are the driving conviction of his communication. Rick is the author of Secure: Discovering True Financial Freedom and If God Will Provide, Why Do We Have to ask for Money? He serves as a member of the board of The Giving Institute and is a former chair of the Giving USA Foundation, which publishes the most widely respected annual report on giving in the U.S. He has been published and quoted in the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Washington Post and more.
Rick is married to his childhood sweetheart, Judi. Together they have 3 children and 9 grandchildren.
Adam works with organizations who want to experience how the magic of laughter can open doors and hearts in business and in life. ExxonMobil executive Mark Green dubbed him the “Tom Brady of Emcees.” Adam has delighted corporate, association, and nonprofit audiences in 49 of the 50 U.S. states, Canada, Europe, and China. In 2021, he received the Best of Los Angeles Award as the #1 Event Master of Ceremonies.
He has appeared on more than 100 radio and TV shows, including CNN, Fox News, Entertainment Tonight, and NBC Nightly News. He’s also been featured in national magazines and newspapers, including USA Today, FORTUNE, and The New York Times. He is the author of three personal growth and humor books published by Random House and Markin Books. His forthcoming book is called We Got You: How to Gather Your Group, Galvanize Your People, and Grow Your Results.
“My goal is not to be the star of the event. I love being the ‘glue’ that joins all the pieces—the theme, the leadership, the attendees—together.” – Adam Christing
Levi Lusko is the founder and lead pastor of Fresh Life Church, located in Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Oregon, Utah, and everywhere online. He is a best-selling author, podcast host, husband, and father of five, and travels the world speaking about Jesus.
Levi is the author of several books, children’s books, and devotionals, including Through the Eyes of a Lion, I Declare War, The Marriage Devotional, and his latest, The Last Supper on the Moon. He and his wife, Jennie, co-host their podcast, Hey It’s the Luskos.
Levi and Jennie have one son, Lennox, and four daughters: Alivia, Daisy, Clover, and Lenya, who is in heaven.
The Hidden Peace: Embracing Weakness as The Way
In a world that champions power, strength, and control to gain the peace you long for, the outcome is often just deeper levels of angst, anxiety, and frustration. In a society that is obsessed with platform and position, we are plagued with greater insecurity than ever before. Not an ounce of this feels like peace. But the Bible points us to how we can experience true peace, regain self-awareness without the entrapment of self-obsession, and live the life of Jesus – Humility. Unexpected? Yes, but it is absolutely essential for the Christian life. It is in fact, the very way of Jesus.
Joel Muddammalle holds a Ph.D. in theology and serves as the director of theology and research at Proverbs 31 Ministries. He is a co-host of the “Therapy & Theology” podcast with Lysa TerKeurst and licensed counselor Jim Cress.
Joel serves on the preaching team at Transformation Church in Indian Land, SC, and is a frequent speaker for conferences and events. He just released his first book, “The Hidden Peace: Finding True Security, Strength, and Confidence Through Humility”. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Joel and his wife enjoy a full house with their four children and two dogs. If he doesn’t have a theology book in hand, you can be sure he’s coaching one of his kids in a sport, or doing his best to keep up his hoops game on the basketball court.
Christian Radio: A Lifeline in Our Communities
Christian radio has been an indispensable part of communities for years. Yet, in an ever-changing landscape of content consumption, how is radio uniquely positioned to level up its connection with the listener? From storytelling to community building to spiritual guidance, Christian radio is able to create a sense of belonging and provide valuable resources for those seeking connection with their faith with the greatest message ever shared.
Myrka is an internationally renowned journalist who is best known as the first anchor for the top-rated news-magazine program on Univision Network, Primer Impacto. She has also hosted her own interview prime-time show titled “Exclusively with Myrka Dellanos.” She has won two Emmy’s among many other recognitions in her career which spans almost two decades. She has been recognized as one of the Most Powerful Women in Television by People Magazine.
Myrka has also received recognition for her humanitarian work with underprivileged children and youth in the US and Latin-America and she travels extensively as a speaker offering a message of hope, renewal and faith in Jesus. She also served for a time as an adjunct professor of Journalism at her Alma Mater, the University of Miami and is a published author.
For all of her accomplishments, Myrka is most grateful for her role as a daughter of God and mother.
Allie’s passion for market research started back in middle school when she sent regular email surveys to family and friends about food, movies, games, and political events. She analyzed the findings and reported back to her respondents. She continues to remain engaged in the latest media/marketing trends as a research analyst based in Metro Detroit. Allie holds a Bachelor’s degree from Kalamazoo College and a Master’s from the University of Michigan. In her spare time, she enjoys running, live music, reading and traveling.
Fred Jacobs is founder and president of Jacobs Media, launched 40 years ago this September as a consultancy providing programming, digital, sales consulting and research to broadcast radio stations and media brands.
Fred is credited with the creation of the Classic Rock radio format in the mid-80’s, still going strong more than a quarter century later.
Over the decades, the company has become known for its innovative Techsurveys, providing important insight into the ways radio listeners access entertainment and information on the broadcast and digital platforms. The surveys started in commercial radio in 2005, and created a version for public radio four years later.
Not surprisingly, Fred’s background is in audience research, working for the legendary Frank N. Magid and Associates as its director of research for the radio and publishing divisions. Fred went on to ABC Radio as WRIF/Detroit’s research director before serving in the same capacity for the company’s Owned FM Stations in New York. He returned to Detroit for a successful run as program director of WRIF in 1981.
Paul Jacobs is Vice President/General Manager of Jacobs Media, specializing in revenue generation for Jacobs Media’s clients. In 2008, Paul headed up a new startup – jācapps – the industry’s first mobile application development company. Over the past 15 years, jācapps has become the largest mobile application developer for the broadcast radio, creating more than 1,300 apps worldwide, including many leading Christian broadcasters.
Paul has earned a reputation for educating sales staffs and their clients about the marketing power of radio broadcasting and the industry’s digital future. He began his career on the sales and management side of the business, working in sales and management positions at WNIC, WRIF, and WDFX in Detroit, as well as for KZEW in Dallas before joining his brothers Fred and Bill in 1991 at Jacobs Media.
The Jacobs brothers are frequent speakers at industry conferences, which include state broadcasting association events. In recent years, they have begun advising broadcasters on strategic planning and digital transformation.
Paul and Fred have become industry thought leaders focused on the changing in-car audio experience, and championing innovation in radio through their executive tours each January at CES in Las Vegas.
Loving Others Well While Navigating Life’s Challenges
We spend so much emotional energy pouring hope and encouragement into our listeners each week. That may be a challenge even on the best of days. When we are exhausted or are going through trials, how do we continue to inspire our audience and live in obedience to who God has called us to be? Establishing healthy boundaries in our personal and professional lives can help us learn how to support our listeners at a higher level without losing the best of who we are in the process.
Lysa TerKeurst is president and chief visionary officer of Proverbs 31 Ministries and the author of six New York Times bestsellers, including Good Boundaries and Goodbyes, Forgiving What You Can’t Forget, and It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way. But to those who know her best, she’s just a simple girl with a well-worn Bible, who proclaims hope in the midst of both good times and heartbreaking realities.
Lysa loves spending time with her family, playing (and often winning) new board games, studying God’s Word, and pursuing healing with friends like you.
Robert Morris is the senior pastor of Gateway Church, a multicampus church based in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Since it began in 2000, the church has grown to more than 100,000 active attendees. His television program airs in over 190 countries, and his radio program, Worship & the Word with Pastor Robert, airs in more than 6,800 cities. He serves as chancellor of The King’s University and is the bestselling author of numerous books, including The Blessed Life, Frequency,The God I Never Knew, and Take the Day Off. Robert and his wife, Debbie, have been married 43 years and are blessed with one married daughter, two married sons, and nine grandchildren.
The Epitome of Leveling Up
Toby McKeehan, better known as TobyMac, is an iconic figure in our industry. Get a peek behind the curtain of his journey, from his college days at Liberty University to his current role of writing and producing top radio hits, performing at sold-out concerts, plus nurturing new talent with Gotee. He continues to build a compelling brand as he embraces unexpected paths guided by God. Toby is the epitome of leveling up. This is TobyMac like you’ve never experienced him before.
Corey Mann has been reaching people through radio broadcasting for 36 years now and showing no signs of stopping. His career started in Michigan, but eventually he moved to Indiana in 1991. After a few years at a local church working with student ministry, Corey found an opportunity with Pulse FM as a morning show host, Program Director, and podcast host! Corey and his wife have an adult daughter who is teaching 7th grade and a teenage son who works part time as a lifeguard. Corey is an author of a children’s joke book, and when time allows, he’s chasing stand up comedy.
Paul Martin brings decades of experience in donor engagement and business development in both radio and digital media to nonprofit organizations. Paul helps donors and business partners discover the joy of participating in ministry through giving.
Paul recently led the development work for Hope Media Group as Chief of Development. He founded Advocace Media (which combined with DickersonBakker in 2019) to help Christian radio grow funding from corporate sponsors, mid-level and major donors. He also was a leader of founding teams at KLTY (twice), Salem Media Representatives, Salem Radio Network, Popmail (a digital media solution for radio), Separate Account Solutions (a financial services firm for High Net Worth households), and Christian Broadcasting Network.
As a Certified Fund Raising Executive, Martin sees great opportunity to grow biblical stewardship with donors through Hope Media Group. “More people can enjoy a deeper walk with Christ by living a life of stewardship and generosity. “
Paul encourages people to amplify their impact through thoughtful growth, action and innovation. He seeks ways for people to prayerfully commit to a God-sized vision and pursue it.
Paul and his wife Paula have three adult daughters and have a heart for the disadvantaged and disabled.
Utilizing Research for Sales and Underwriting
Kent Phillips – President & Managing Partner, FMR Associates
FMR Associates, a leader in media research for over 40 years, will present a 2500- person multi-market study on Christian radio listening and the correlation to sales and underwriting. The study aims to provide insight into key listening patterns for programming and key consumer behaviors. The qualitative data will index multiple categories compared to all radio listenership with a goal of growing grant opportunities and radio sales for your station.
The Art of Interviewing
Mandy Young – Vice President of Radio, Educational Media Foundation
Matthew West
Christian music listeners love the music that CCM artists create. As an on-air talent, how do you help connect them to the artist themselves? Learn how ‘the art of interviewing’ can create impactful content for your station and create a memorable experience for your listeners. Topics to be covered include how to prepare for an interview, what questions to ask and when, and how to create an environment for the artist and you to shine.
Voices of Unity: Harnessing the Power of Communication for Reconciliation
Pascal Losambe – Chief Content Officer, Synergy Consulting Co.
Explore the power of communication through the lens of neurobiology and practical techniques. How does the human brain process language and emotions? How can radio use this knowledge to effectively build trust and connect with diverse audiences? Learn what tools are needed to use your voice as a force for unity and reconciliation in a divided world by unlocking the potential of your words in bridging gaps and healing communities.
Find the One Thing You Are Called to Do
Will Mancini – Founder and CEO of RunFree.Co / Creator of the Younique LifePlan System, Younique
It’s been said that your job is what you paid for but your calling is what you are made for. But what if your job and your calling could be aligned with breathtaking clarity? This breakout will reveal the four break-thru practices to get you there. Don’t miss the opportunity to find more meaningful progress in your 9-5 while you fulfill why God put you on earth!
Getting Reel About Short Form Video
Olivia Yetman, Social Media Consultant, Killer Bee Marketing
Everywhere you turn you’re hearing about the importance of video content. Dive headfirst into the wild world of short-form videos on social media! We’re spilling the tea on the hottest trends that’ll make your content pop and make sure you’re getting the most out of your videos. Whether you’re already killing it or just dipping your toes in, you’ll walk away with practical tips to step up your game on Facebook and Instagram. And hold up, should Christian Radio be on TikTok? Buckle up, you’re about to find out.
Taking a Deeper Dive into the Brand New P1 Research
Rick Dunham – Founder/Chairman, Dunham+Company
How do you understand P1s better, what motivates them, and what insights do you need to effectively engage them to support your station? You’ll learn more about the findings from Dunham+Company’s latest study of P1 listeners to Christian radio. Ask questions as we compare and contrast these new findings to the groundbreaking P1 study conducted in 2021.
Making Music Decisions on a Budget
Rob Morris – Programming Consultant, Radio Animal Media Strategies
Programming in a streaming, data-driven, TikTok-obsessed world can be challenging. However, the amount of consumer data is now even more plentiful. On-demand streaming research can assist broadcasters when resources are no longer in the budget. This information provides a more accurate reflection of true consumption behavior, enabling programmers to interpret the data for their specific situations. It serves as a guide to light the way to more confident programming decisions and more satisfied listeners. When resources are limited, you can make music decisions on a budget and build a better playlist.
Meeting Makeover: Remodeling a Cornerstone Business Tool
Curt Swindoll, Certified EOS Implementer, EOS Worldwide
On a scale of 1-to-10, how effective are your internal meetings? If we are honest, most organizations would say there is LOTS of room for improvement. The average mid-level manager spends a third of their time in meetings. CEO’s spend 73% on average! Yet nearly half of employees say “meetings” are their largest waste of time. Learn how a weekly, quarterly, and annual “meeting pulse” can change that. This pulse is used by leadership teams in tens of thousands of companies around the world. Let’s fix your meeting mess, and solve one of the biggest frustrations you experience every day.
Trends in Today’s Audio Listening Landscape
Megan Lazovick – Vice President, Edison Research
Edison Research has chronicled the changes in the U.S. audio space for almost 30 years through research such as “The Infinite Dial,” “Share of Ear,” “Edison Podcast Metrics,” and a variety of other custom studies. During this time, trends have emerged – ones that have been consistent over time and promise to continue to affect listening habits and behaviors. See the latest updates on radio listening, streaming, podcasting, subscribing, and in-car usage, and how these trends are expected to continue to affect the audio space in the future.
Creating a Great Podcast
Meridith Foster – Mid-days and Host of The Unfolding Podcast, WBGL/Northwestern Media
As a Christian broadcaster, you are already creating great content every day. Why not utilize those skills to go deeper with your audience through podcasting? Learn from the creative team behind the 2023 CMB Radio Podcast of the Year, The Unfolding. Discover what they’ve learned through their 200 episodes and more than three million downloads. Where to start? What makes a great idea for a podcast? How can you improve your podcast? Find inspiration to start your next great podcast.
Level Up Your Street Team Brand
Harilyn Macosko – Fun Patrol Director / Afternoon Co-host, HIS Radio
Great radio stations know the street team hustle is key to staying local. Big or small stations can shine bright with their very own street squad. Your street team is like your hype squad, elevating your brand, getting you noticed, and vibing with your audience to level up your game. So, turning up the street team power is a game-changer. Walk away with fresh ideas to build up and pump up your street team!
Fundraising Best Practices
Rick Dunham – Founder/Chairman, Dunham+Company
Jason Parker – Chief Strategy Officer, Dunham+Company
Julia Taylor – Fundraising Host & Coach, Dunham+Company
Blanca Vega – Fundraising Host & Coach, Dunham+Company
This interactive breakout session will equip you with immediately actionable takeaways regarding fundraising best practices presented by Dunham+Company’s Media Strategists. This fast-paced session is for anyone in radio leadership, development, programming, or listener engagement looking for useful, timely intel. Pre-session caffeination recommended. A working phone is required to participate.
The Epitome of Leveling Up
Toby McKeehan, better known as TobyMac, is an iconic figure in our industry. Get a peek behind the curtain of his journey, from his college days at Liberty University to his current role of writing and producing top radio hits, performing at sold-out concerts, plus nurturing new talent with Gotee. He continues to build a compelling brand as he embraces unexpected paths guided by God. Toby is the epitome of leveling up. This is TobyMac like you’ve never experienced him before.
With more than 16 million units in career sales and a whopping seven GRAMMY Awards, TobyMac’s career continues on the fast track. Each of his six studio solo projects have achieved Gold certification, a first for any artist in the history Capitol Christian Music Group. He is also the CEO of Gotee Records, an boutique record label founded in 1994 whose independent spirit is maintained through a steady focus on artist development and diversity. Gotee is currently home to artists such as Ryan Stevenson, Cochren & Co., Terrian, Jon Reddick and more.
How to Design the Life God Dreamed for You
Will Mancini • Founder & CEO, RunFree.Co / Creator of the Younique LifePlan System
We have been flooded with intentional living and self-help content for almost a century. But what does it mean, from a biblical perspective, to make the most of our one-and-only life in a God-honoring way? Discover the five essential steps to unlock and unleash your God-given calling. Walk through several flash assessments as well as breakthrough training with a world-class clarity coach. Get ready to astound yourself with your capability as you interpret your story, name what only you can do, and learn how to achieve dramatically bigger life goals.
Finding Your Station’s Next “Fan Tribe”
Mark Ramsey • President, Mark Ramsey Media
Mark Ramsey and Jacobs Media recently conducted a study for Maine Public media that takes a new approach to finding the next adjacent audience for Public Radio. This approach is catching on for more public media broadcasters nationwide. But…what about Christian radio? In this intensive workshop, Mark Ramsey shares some highlights from the Maine Public study and how this new “adjacent audience” thinking can help you create and assess audience growth initiatives across content, platforms, age groups, and ethnic segments. The future of Christian media is to engage with more like-minded people with the content they want on the platforms they use, brought to you by what we now call Christian “broadcasters.” Find out how in this fast-paced and provocative session.
Pack a Wallop: Your Show’s Emotional Impact
Jeff McHugh • Media & Talent Coach, The Randy Lane Company
Emotional engagement is the secret ingredient in successful content, and music alone is no longer enough to hit today’s radio audiences in the feels. Talent coach Jeff McHugh explains why unfiltered personalities, content choice, and planning create a passion for radio in 2024.
Aligning Promotions and Programming for Maximum Impact
Jennifer Bailey • VP of Marketing & Community Connections, Encouragement Media Group
Bill Bumpas • VP of Programming, Encouragement Media Group
T.J. Jackson • Community Engagement Director, Life 88.5 / KJNW
Jeremy Louis • Program Director, JOY FM / KLJY
Melony McKaye • Program Director, Life 88.5 / KJNW
Brandi Reichert • Director of Strategic Marketing, JOY FM / KJLY & BOOST Radio / KXBS
There is a critical connection between community engagement and programming, emphasizing the importance of alignment for maximum impact. Explore promotional opportunities for building more listening occasions, growing TSL, and strategies for increasing new cume. Discover actionable steps to boost your station’s visibility and engagement with your listeners. Using research, let’s turn insights into effective tactics for sustained success.
Amplify Your Impact: Fundraising Trends and Actionable Advice for 2024
Mike Meyers • Chief Development Officer, CRISTA Ministries
How can you amplify your impact during fundraisers? What strategies are working in 2024, and how can you implement them? Gain insights from the latest research and trends, learn how to acquire and upgrade donors, and discover best practices for donor cultivation. Plus, explore navigating the challenges of election season fundraising and overcoming donor fears.
Charting the Future of Radio with Digital Transformation
Jarrod Graetz • Digital Transformationalist, Jarrod Graetz Media Group
Discover a world brimming with potential: BE INSPIRED. Showcasing implementable, cutting-edge ideas from around the globe, we’ll delve into the innovations of digital transformation for radio. This journey is more than mere observation—it’s an active invitation to engage and unearth unprecedented opportunities. What innovative strategies and tools can help you broaden your reach and deepen the connections with your listeners? Experience how thriving in the digital landscape is powered by unparalleled insights designed to ignite innovation and position your station at the forefront of the digital era.
Spanish Language Radio: Strategies & Tactics for Growing Your Market
Nancy Overfield • Chief Marketing & GM, Vida Unida
The Hispanic population is growing more than any other race in America, making up nearly 20% of the population. In response to this growth, Christian radio stations are turning towards Spanish-language programming as a platform to reach more people for Jesus. What tools are needed to have success? What are the strategic approaches tailored to resonate with Hispanic audiences? Discover how to embrace and engage this critical audience by creating compelling content and building trust through equity in strategic partnerships.
Level Up Your Listener Connection
Radio listening is being disrupted like never before. How do we replenish lapsed listeners and welcome new listeners to our stations? What can we do in programming to increase the number of listeners tuning in every day? How can building real on-air personalities and great characters solidify your station’s ability to stand out? Explore how you can use creativity to improve audience delivery and walkthrough the strategies you can employ at your station to help you level up from ‘Good’ to ‘Great’!
Dennis Clark, EVP Talent Development at iHeartRadio (a position he’s held for 15 years). Dennis specializes in the training, coaching and development of on-air personalities, production teams and producers for over 100 broadcast shows at iHeartRadio. Key shows include those hosted by Ryan Seacrest, Elvis Duran, Bobby Bones, Ellen K, Angi Taylor, Enrique Santos, JohnJay and Rich, Kidd Chris, and Angela Yee. Other shows include “The Breakfast Club”, “The Kidd Kraddick Morning Show”, “The Fred Show”, “Valentine In The Morning”, “Cubby And Christine”, “Carolina Bermudez with Greg T”, “The Woody Show”, and countless others.
It’s All About the Prep
Step into the world of top morning shows with this comprehensive session on mastering show prep. Discover how successful hosts plan their content, balance entertainment with spiritual elements, and collaborate with their teams to create a seamless experience for listeners. We’ll explore key questions like: What are your goals during prep? How far in advance do you plan? How do you measure success? Learn strategies for staying on top of your game, even on challenging days, and find out how self-evaluation and reinvention can keep your show fresh and engaging. Whether you’re looking to refine your approach or gain new insights, this session offers practical tools to elevate your morning show.
Sandi Brown is the founder and President of Gateway Creative Broadcasting in St. Louis, MO, home of JOY FM and BOOST RADIO.
Sandi is co-host of JOY IN THE MORNING and has written 4 books, including “Healing Out Loud: How To Embrace God’s Love When You Don’t Like Yourself.” Sandi worked as a Creative Writer and Producer for Focus on the Family. Sandi loves to spend time with her family, go on walks and laugh, or “cackle” as her friends and co-workers call it.
Radio’s New Truth – Risk is NOT an Option
Growing = taking risks. The past “formula” for growing a radio station doesn’t yield the same results anymore. Let’s have an honest conversation about what risk means to our stations and format, and how we can all make more impact by learning from each other.
Matt Stockman fell in love with the idea of talking over the airwaves by listening to heritage AM radio stations on a transistor radio as a kid. He’s a 40+ year radio veteran, serving in numerous programming roles including CRISTA Media (SPIRIT 105.3, SPIRIT 105.9, PRAISE 106.5, AM 630 KCIS), the K-LOVE Radio Network, and now as Brand Director for Pillar Media (WAWZ/STAR 99.1, WAKW/STAR 93.3, KPOF, KJHM/STAR 101.5, and KFCO/107.1). Matt is a regular writer/contributor to the industry with the goal of raising the standard of excellence in Christian broadcasting so that more people can know Jesus.
Creatively Eliminating Frustration
Discover practical strategies for creating a captivating radio show using the resources you already have. We’ll explore innovative content creation techniques, tips for keeping your programming fresh and relevant, and strategies for leveraging small teams to produce big results. Whether you’re a seasoned broadcaster or just starting out, hear actionable insights and inspiration to elevate your show and strengthen your connection with your audience.
TJ was the kid who walked to school with his headphones plugged into his radio. Having discovered morning talk shows as a 13 year old while growing up in Hillsdale, NJ, he became hooked. In high school, he started working in radio as a volunteer. He held many positions at his first official radio job including answering phones, producing, and eventually becoming a co-host on Elvis Duran’s nationally syndicated radio show. TJ began hosting his own morning radio show (The TJ Show) in Boston in early 2013. The TJ Show is now syndicated to nearly 70 cities daily. TJ is married to his wife, Jess. They have three girls and two dogs named Luna and Frankie.
Radio’s New Truth – Risk is NOT an Option
Growing = taking risks. The past “formula” for growing a radio station doesn’t yield the same results anymore. Let’s have an honest conversation about what risk means to our stations and format, and how we can all make more impact by learning from each other.
Named one of Radio Ink Magazine’s Top 50 Program Directors in America, Mandy Young has been in radio for nearly 25 years.
She started her career in Grand Rapids, Michigan at WJQK as Promotions Director and eventually found her way to the Morning Show.
After 10 years in West Michigan, Mandy took the role of Morning Show Co-Host at Air1 and has been with EMF since 2009. Serving in roles with the ministry such as Music Director, APD and Program Director, Mandy is currently the Vice President of Radio for both K-LOVE and Air1.
Mandy has been helping stations across the country fundraise for over 20 years. She’s currently a top fundraiser on K-LOVE and Air1 and also helps talent achieve success in this field.
Mandy is a graduate of Cedarville University with a degree in Communications and Music. Young and her husband Rod reside in Nashville. They have 2 sons in college (Jack and Owen) and an 11 year old daughter (Mamie).
Navigating the Digital Wave: Strategies for Social Media Success
The future of social media is constantly in flux. With emerging technologies and ever-evolving trends, radio must embrace practical strategies to leverage digital and social media to amplify your brand’s reach and engagement. Discover actionable insights on harnessing the power of data analytics, personalized content, and real-time interaction to create a compelling online presence.
Samuel Zniber is a visionary leader renowned for transforming the music radio programming landscape across the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, and France. As the Founder and CEO of MusicDatak, Samuel combines his extensive industry expertise with cutting-edge algorithms to deliver tailored music analytics that align with market strategies, helping leading brands achieve unprecedented success.
With experience in over 18 global markets, Samuel is a trusted consultant whose leadership and innovative vision drive MusicDatak forward. His work promises an advanced exploration of music data analytics, setting new standards in the industry.
Join us for an immersive workshop designed to enhance your social media presence. In this interactive session, you’ll learn how to transform your radio station’s assets into captivating social content that resonates with your audience. Bring your creative ideas and discover how to curate and edit content that drives engagement and boosts your social media impact. Get ready to create compelling social content that truly connects with your listeners!
Texting Your Way to the Future of Radio: Proven Strategies For Infinite Impact • Brian Audia
To effectively build community, radio must continuously adapt its communication tactics. As we look to the future, advancing technologies like MMS, Text Drip, RCS, and AI-assisted texting are reshaping the landscape. How can embracing these advanced texting strategies today revolutionize radio’s future? Discover how leveraging these tools can enhance engagement, fundraising, and listener relationships.
The Future of the Vehicle • Juan Galdamez
Screenification. Pillar-to-Pillar. Hybrid Radio. Personalization. Autonomous. Monetization. These terms describe the evolving vehicle experience. What does this mean for your stations and listeners’ in-car content? How can your team prepare for the future and seize new opportunities?
Embracing Data and Innovation as We Look to the Future • Samuel Zniber
How can radio evolve in 2024, 2029, 2034, and beyond? We can prepare for the future by examining how data and analytics are revolutionizing music broadcasting. We’ll uncover practical insights on how traditional radio can look ahead by adapting to compete with streaming platforms through personalized playlists, advanced analytics, and real-time data. We’ll also delve into the role of AI in enhancing listener engagement and envision a future where quantum computing transforms our auditory experiences without losing the timeless charm of radio.
It’s All About the Prep
Step into the world of top morning shows with this comprehensive session on mastering show prep. Discover how successful hosts plan their content, balance entertainment with spiritual elements, and collaborate with their teams to create a seamless experience for listeners. We’ll explore key questions like: What are your goals during prep? How far in advance do you plan? How do you measure success? Learn strategies for staying on top of your game, even on challenging days, and find out how self-evaluation and reinvention can keep your show fresh and engaging. Whether you’re looking to refine your approach or gain new insights, this session offers practical tools to elevate your morning show.
Bryce Dillenberger is co-host of JOY IN THE MORNING On 99.1 Joy FM in St. Louis. Bryce obtained her degree in Mass Communications and spent 5 years working as the Communications Director in church ministry prior to joining the JOY FM team in 2024. Bryce loves video editing, reading, family time, watching sports with her husband and snuggling their three babies!
The Future of Music Radio: Insights from Label Executives
Delve into the future of radio in the music industry with a panel discussion of label executives. Explore how evolving technologies, changing listener habits, and emerging platforms are transforming the radio landscape. Hear the challenges and opportunities ahead, and how radio can continue to be a powerful platform for music discovery and promotion.
Andrew Lambeth serves as the Vice President of Sales & Promotions at Centricity Music, a leading Christian music label. He has a strong commitment to supporting and developing artists and has had the opportunity to work with talented artists such as Lauren Daigle, Chris Renzema, NEEDTOBREATHE, Katy Nichole, Brandon Heath, and many others. Andrew holds a bachelor’s degree from The University of Alabama and an M.B.A. from The College of William & Mary.
The Future of Music Radio: Insights from Label Executives
Delve into the future of radio in the music industry with a panel discussion of label executives. Explore how evolving technologies, changing listener habits, and emerging platforms are transforming the radio landscape. Hear the challenges and opportunities ahead, and how radio can continue to be a powerful platform for music discovery and promotion.
David Sylvester currently serves as Senior Vice President, Operations at Capitol Christian Music Group. A 25 year industry veteran, he has worked with Tobymac, Chris Tomlin, Crowder, We The Kingdom, Cody Carnes, Anne Wilson and many others. His experience spans Marketing, Finance, Data Analysis, Research and Label Operations.
Empowering Your Music Scheduler
Nate Mumford • Director of Sales Engineering, RCS
As radio continues to evolve, many programmers are looking to their music scheduling champions to maximize their efficiency and take that next step. RCS is excited to host this powerful session dedicated to discussing the future of music scheduling, modern music log distribution, introducing new programming concepts like GSelector’s S3 (Schedule Subscription Service), and inspiring programmers with unique scheduling techniques, while also reserving time for everyday questions. Plus, RCS will be on hand to answer any specific questions throughout the summit.
Nate Mumford has been working in radio for over 20 years with stops in Danbury, CT, Poughkeepsie, NY, Boston, MA and more. Aside from being a Program Director and On-Air Talent, he’s personally built and successfully launched multiple radio stations across various formats using RCS and other radio software solutions, which lead him to his current position as RCS Director of Sales Engineering, as well as winning Support Technician of the Year in his first year with RCS. He’s also the host of the RCS Live series, which includes over 150+ videos that have been viewed by radio professionals around the world, outlining tips, tricks and how to’s across all RCS products.
Which Music Research Strategy Is Right For Me?
Jay Nachlis • Vice President/Consultant, Coleman Insights
There is no shortage of analytics available for today’s programmers and a myriad of ways to use data to formulate a music strategy for your station. Just as no two radio stations are exactly alike, the same applies to music research methodology. What’s the best way to ensure you’re playing the right songs for your audience?
We’ll explore the pros and cons of different new and library music testing types, share examples of CCM research, and explain the ideal way to ensure your music test will get the best results specifically for your station.
Jay Nachlis joined Coleman Insights in July 2017 following over two decades of radio experience, including on-air, music director, and program director positions in San Francisco, Buffalo, Detroit, and Raleigh-Durham. He leads podcasting and digital initiatives for Coleman Insights, providing actionable research solutions to build strong brands and develop great content.
The Golden Age of Christian Radio
Josh Lauritch • President, 55 Promotion
In 2025 we can know exactly which songs Christian music fans are listening to every week and how often. Adding this to your toolbox could truly usher in the golden age of Christian radio. Why does it matter to your radio station? How can you utilize it in your decision making process? How do you navigate the agendas and bias inherent in the music business to identify which data is most valuable for you as a radio station? Let’s discuss it all…streaming, consumption, Shazam, social media activity, radio charts, the Church and the tools we have to see in real-time what fans of Christian music are listening to and encountering on their own every week.
Josh Lauritch began his career in radio in 2003 at The Fish in Milwaukee. He’s passionate about the message of Jesus and how music and radio can impact people. He’s worked at multiple major record labels as a promotion rep and a brand manager.
He founded 55 Promotion in 2015 after quitting the music business and moving home to Milwaukee. Funny how God works. It’s a GREAT story. Ask him about it and he’ll tell you all about it. Josh is more of a storyteller than a promoter. He’s helped tell the story of 54 different #1 songs to Christian radio programmers since 2006.
Advanced Music Research Techniques
Let’s take a deep dive into online music research, covering best practices, scientific standards, and more. We’ll discuss ways to use audience research effectively and show you the pitfalls of misusing it. Hear insights about testing unfamiliar songs plus how to predict and identify future power golds. See real data from a station that’s been #1 12+ multiple times in the last two years and learn how online music research has impacted their efforts. We’ll also touch on subjects like the optimal number of staff members to choose adds for a station, how labels should look at radio research, and so much more.
Based in Tulsa, OK, Stephens Media Group started with KXOJ-FM in 1977 and has grown to 75+ radio stations in 15 markets across the United States as well as a national digital sales and online marketing division. Bob has two adult children and has been married to his wife Jackie for 34 years.
Fool’s Gold: Avoiding Digital Distractions and Focusing on What Matters
Are your digital efforts contributing to your station’s success, or are they just feeding big tech’s algorithms? In an era where social media likes and video views can seem like success, it’s crucial for radio stations to focus on digital strategies that actually benefit the bottom line. Jeremy will share how he identifies digital distractions and steers Hubbard’s stations toward sustainable, impactful opportunities that build long-term brand value.
Jeremy is a twenty+ year veteran in leading media companies through digital transformation. He currently spearheads digital innovation and strategy at Hubbard Radio where he’s lead the development of industry leading digital products for the company. Jeremy has previously been awarded with the Digital Leadership Award from the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and he currently serves as chair of the NAB Digital Officers Committee.
AI for Broadcasters: Technology You Can Use Today
Discover how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of broadcasting in this session tailored specifically for you. Learn about the evolution of AI tools and their real-world applications in content creation, audience engagement, and productivity enhancement across radio and digital platforms. We’ll look at practical examples you can implement immediately and address ethical considerations to help broadcasters embrace AI confidently and responsibly to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving media landscape.
Chris Brunt has over thirty years of experience in the radio industry, spanning the on-air programming, digital content creation, and digital sales departments. Before assuming his current role as the Director of AI, Digital, and Revenue at Jacobs Media, he played a pivotal role in driving digital growth for Beasley Media and Greater Media in Detroit. His strategic development efforts included launching websites, audio and video streaming platforms, and managing the largest radio podcast in the Midwest. As the Digital Sales Manager, Brunt orchestrated remarkable revenue growth by leveraging both owned/operated and programmatic media. Prior to his Detroit endeavors, he served as the program director for one of the original Edge alternative rock stations in Lansing, Michigan.
Along with his duties at Jacobs Media, Chris develops revenue opportunities for jācapps’ mobile apps clients. He is an alumnus of both Lyman Briggs School of Natural Science and the College of Communication Arts and Sciences at Michigan State University.
Stop Losing Your Audience When They Turn the Radio Off
The greatest listener transition of all time is happening right now. With listening patterns more fragmented and choices more abundant than ever, discover how to extend your audience, maximize impact, and boost revenue.
Jarrod Gräetz is a Chief Transformationst and founder of GRÄETZ Media Group, where they help radio stations grow their audience. With 28 years of experience, Jarrod’s journey has taken him from being on-air to leading key initiatives across international markets like the USA, Australia, and the Middle East.
As the VP of Streaming and International Growth for Christian radio networks K-LOVE and Air1, Jarrod implemented innovative strategies that propelled these networks from the top 13 to the top 5 in the U.S. in just 18 months. He has a knack for blending technology and audience engagement to drive remarkable results.
During his tenure as CEO at PositiveMedia in Melbourne, Jarrod’s strategic insight helped 89.9 The Light become the most-listened-to station in the southern hemisphere, breaking all prior listenership records and establishing a new benchmark for success.
Jarrod passionately believes in the power of positive work culture, driving audience growth and financial success. His strategies transformed a challenging corporate environment, demonstrating the powerful impact that a vibrant workplace can have on both listener numbers and the bottom line. With a keen understanding of the radio industry’s potential, he’s pioneering innovative ways to help radio stations connect with listeners everywhere, including when they are not even listening to the radio.
Jarrod inspires radio professionals worldwide to embrace change and unlock their potential, steering them toward strategies that drive audience growth and industry progress.
The 2025 Social Media Playbook for Radio
The social media landscape is constantly evolving. Are our strategies keeping pace with these changes? Or are we still employing practices that were crucial five years ago but have lost their relevance? This session will equip you with essential guiding philosophies for social media success in 2025. We’ll explore current best practices by separating the necessary from the nonsense. Leave with a clear understanding of what truly matters in social media today so you can maximize your station’s reach and impact.
Zach Boehm believes in the power of Christian radio to bring hope and change lives. That’s why he’s dedicated his career to expanding its reach – first as an on-air producer and music director, then leading digital efforts at WayFM and Hope Media Group. Now, as VP of Strategy at Powered By Text, he’s equipping stations like yours to connect with audiences in deeper ways through the latest digital tools.
MD Panel: From Spin to Win
Music Directors play a pivotal role in shaping a station’s sound, from selecting songs that resonate with listeners to collaborating with labels and curating playlists that reflect the station’s brand. Join seasoned MDs as they share their insights and strategies for creating meaningful connections between music and listeners.
Melony started in radio in college at her school’s 100,000 watt NPR station hosting local breaks for Morning Edition. She quickly added weekend shifts at some of the top station in town. After school, she worked in Country, Top 40, Classic Rock, Oldies, News Talk and AC formats but the largest part of her career has been in serving in CCM in Orlando at WPOZ Z88.3 for 13 years and for the past 11 years at KJNW Life 88.5 in Kansas City where she is Program Director and Afternoon Show Host.
MD Panel: From Spin to Win
Music Directors play a pivotal role in shaping a station’s sound, from selecting songs that resonate with listeners to collaborating with labels and curating playlists that reflect the station’s brand. Join seasoned MDs as they share their insights and strategies for creating meaningful connections between music and listeners.
Jonathan Unthank is the Assistant Director of Programming and Content for The Light FM, the radio network of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, covering parts of seven states in the Southeast. Jonathan has over 25 years of Christian radio leadership experience as a music and program director. Jonathan is passionate about developing innovative programming strategies where music and the Good News combine to deeply connect with the audience on a daily basis. Jonathan lives in Knoxville, TN with his wife of nearly 20 years, Melanie, and their three kids, Daniel, Evelyn, and Emmaline.
MD Panel: From Spin to Win
Music Directors play a pivotal role in shaping a station’s sound, from selecting songs that resonate with listeners to collaborating with labels and curating playlists that reflect the station’s brand. Join seasoned MDs as they share their insights and strategies for creating meaningful connections between music and listeners.
Tony Weir helped start a small radio ministry in 1992… and never left. Now CEO of The House, he programs The House FM and The House of Praise networks on 20 frequencies across Oklahoma and Kansas and multiple streaming platforms. His passion for sharing life-changing Christian Music has only grown through the years.
MORNING BREAKOUTS
From Airwaves to Algorithms: The 2025 Trends to Grow Your Radio Brand on Instagram
Michelle Gifford • CEO of Michelle Gifford Agency, Michelle Gifford Creative
Hear about the top trends in social media plus tricks to increase your followers and get your station noticed.
Michelle Gifford is a brand and marketing strategist and the CEO of a marketing agency that serves influencers, creatives, and small businesses in the industry. Michelle is an industry leader in content marketing. She is a podcaster, Youtuber, business coach, and social media expert. She lives in Southern California with her amazing husband and five kids. She has a love for kettle corn, softball coaching, and anything that makes her laugh. Her motto is: “The faster I start walking, the faster God starts talking.”
The Possibilities of Podcasting in 2025
Eric Nordhoff • Podcast Strategist + Consultant / Courageous Podcasting
The basic principles of the power of podcasting are still the same, but the technology is always changing. The resources are becoming more prevalent. How can you use your strengths as a radio broadcaster, apply those great content-creating skills, and match them with all the benefits of podcasting? We’ll take a deep dive into how to maximize the medium of podcasting for your benefit in today’s landscape.
Eric Nordhoff started and monetized his first podcast in 2012. Since then, he’s helped over a dozen podcasts earn more than $2M in revenue from courses, memberships, sponsorships, and live events. He is a podcast strategist and consultant for others. Right now, he’s enjoying exploring the opportunities opening up for podcasts on YouTube. He lives in Franklin, TN with his Christian songwriter wife of 26 years, Krissy, and their 3 kids.
Video Killed the Radio Star? Maybe not.
Brandon Snipe • Content Creator, The Chosen Sleuth
We’ll explore how Christian radio can use YouTube to create new and deeper communities. Learn practical strategies for leveraging YouTube’s platform to expand your reach, foster meaningful connections, and build loyal audiences beyond traditional radio. By creating engaging, faith-driven content, you can amplify your mission, engage listeners on a deeper level, and establish thriving online communities centered on shared values.
Brandon Snipe is a Content Creator Focused on the Youtube space. As a Worship Pastor For 10 years Ministry has always been a focus. However God moved him over to content creation and has led Brandon to reach 10’s of Millions through Youtube. With a focus on Biblical media like “The Chosen” and ” The Promised Land” Series, Brandon brings a depth of understanding of the culture, history and Scripture that these shows portray.
Short Form, Big Impact: Leveraging Short Form Content to Amplify Your Radio Station
Charles Van Dyke • VP, Radio Promotion, Provident Entertainment
Getting time with an artist is an awesome opportunity to help your listeners and staff connect with them and their songs on a deeper level. Putting them on air, getting them to do a few funny videos, and getting a story behind the song are all nice things. But what makes an artist (and you) walk away saying, “I had a great time!”? Whether you have no idea what to do when an artist stops by your station or you have a 12-step program for artist visits, let’s walk through ideas and tips to ensure every visit is a success.
Since 2005, Van Dyke has been helping Christian radio stations bring encouraging songs and programming to their listeners. Working for Provident Entertainment for over 10 years combined, he has had the privilege of working with many of today’s top artists, including Brandon Lake, CAIN, Casting Crowns, Dolly Parton, H.E.R., Matthew West, Steven Curtis Chapman, Tauren Wells, Zach Williams, among many others. His career has included breaking new artists, achieving numerous No. 1 songs, along with creating marketing campaigns for new releases. Additionally, Van Dyke has been an adjunct professor at Belmont University, his alma mater, since 2009.
AFTERNOON BREAKOUTS [ CRAWL, WALK, RUN ]
No matter where you are on your digital journey, the CRAWL, WALK, and RUN breakouts are designed to meet you at your current level of expertise and help you take the next step forward. Whether you’re just starting out and need the basics (CRAWL), looking to refine your skills (WALK), or ready to take bold, advanced strides (RUN), each of the breakouts is tailored to provide practical insights, actionable strategies, and inspiration to help you grow in the digital space. Choose the breakout that aligns with your current needs, and leave equipped to reach more people for Christ.
Key Questions to Consider Before Creating A Digital Strategy (CRAWL)
Matt Mundt • Digital Market Consult & Digital Ad Strategist, Matt Mundt Digital Marketing
In today’s digital world, creating content, building communities, and launching platforms is easier than ever. But are we truly making an impact, or just adding to the noise? How can your ministry invest its time and resources into a digital strategy that fosters meaningful connections and remains sustainable (aka: keeps the lights on)? In this session, we’ll tackle the essential questions that should shape your digital strategy, explore tools and resources to spark creativity, and share practical tips to help you develop and execute your next big digital idea with purpose and impact.
Matt Mundt has 25 years of experience as a digital marketing strategist and tactician for faith-based media organizations. He’s helped lead and steer the digital strategy for K-LOVE Radio, Air1 Radio, SPIRIT 105.3 KCMS, CURE International, Provident Label Group, and Tooth & Nail Records. Yes, he was once a “Myspace Marketing Expert” in 2006 and has continued to stay curious and informed on digital trends that help ministries like yours grow their impact.
Walk Into Growth: Simple Strategies to Scale Your Digital & Social Media (WALK)
Erin Branham • Digital Director, Brighter Media Group
You have some systems in place and are ready for the next stage of growth in your digital and social media. However, your budget and people resources haven’t necessarily increased. How do you take the next steps to keep forward momentum? We’ll explore some simple ideas around strategy, maximizing your tools, and your time.
Erin Branham is the Digital Director for Brighter Media Group, where she’s proudly served the greater Baltimore listening community for 20 years. Throughout her career, Erin has held a variety of roles, including directing creative services, promotions, social media, and marketing, while also spending 12 years on-air in the afternoons. This broad experience across multiple listener touchpoints has shaped her ability to create relevant, engaging content that is thoughtfully tailored to both the platform and its audience. Whether she’s developing digital strategies or handing out color-changing cups at BRIGHT-FM community events, Erin’s focus remains on making a positive impact and strengthening the connection between Brighter Media Group and its listeners.
Scaling Your Digital Content for Maximum Impact (RUN)
Zach Boehm • VP of Strategy, Powered By Text
This interactive breakout is designed for Christian radio stations and networks committed to expanding their reach and deepening their digital impact. Engage in peer-to-peer discussions on staffing, KPIs, budgeting, and platform-specific strategies. Share your successes, learn from challenges, and leave equipped with actionable insights to fuel your digital growth.
Zach Boehm believes in the power of Christian radio to bring hope and change lives. That’s why he’s dedicated his career to expanding its reach – first as an on-air producer and music director, then leading digital efforts at WayFM and Hope Media Group. Now, as VP of Strategy at Powered By Text, he’s equipping stations like yours to connect with audiences in deeper ways through the latest digital tools.
Joel Osteen is a New York Times bestselling author and the senior pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas. Millions connect daily with his inspirational messages through television, podcasts, Joel Osteen Radio on SiriusXM, the Joel Osteen Network, and digital platforms.
Do We Really Know What Potential Listeners Want?
Lots of research has focused on CCM station perceptions in local markets and the tech habits of CCM fans. However, not much has focused on the larger population of people who listen to Christian music (no matter where that happens) whether or not they are also CCM radio listeners. Further, we broadcasters have lots of assumptions about what drives these potential listeners, but are those assumptions true? In this landmark study, we survey Christian music listeners and then ask the same questions of CCM stations. Are these would-be listeners really who we think they are?
Mark Ramsey has consulted with and provided research support for numerous media, publishing, and digital brands over his career, including Apple, iHeartMedia, Audacy, Beasley, EMF, Hope Media Group, Salem, Pandora, Bonneville, SiriusXM, EA Sports, and more.
His work has been fundamental to the growth strategies and format choices of hundreds of radio stations across the USA. He is proud to work alongside a long list of talented Christian broadcasters.
Ramsey continues to work alongside faith-based broadcasters working hard to grow their influence, audiences, and ministries.
In the podcast space, Ramsey is the creator, director and show-runner of the CMB-winning and Ambie-nominated Scrooge: A Christmas Carol for Hope Media Group.
He is the creator, writer, and host of imaginative, top-ranked podcasts including Wondery’s Inside making-of series featuring Inside Psycho, Inside the Exorcist, Inside Jaws and Inside Star Wars. All ranked in Apple Podcasts’ top ten upon debut.
Ramsey produced the full cast dramatic thriller Aftershock for iHeartRadio, starring Sarah Wayne Callies (The Walking Dead), David Harbour (Stranger Things) and Jeffrey Dean Morgan (The Walking Dead, Watchmen).
Also in 2023, Ramsey created the Signal Award-winning limited series FADE IN: Quentin Tarantino & Pulp Fiction for public radio legend KCRW in Santa Monica.
More recently Ramsey created, wrote, and directed the Ambie Award-nominated and Signal Award-winning thriller series Dark Sanctum for REALM and Wondery+. It features Clive Standen (Vikings), Bethany Joy Lenz (One Tree Hill, Dexter), and Michael O’Neill (Seabiscuit, Dallas Buyers Club).
How People-Centric AI Shapes Our Future
Explore how traditional values and time-tested practices can guide the ethical adoption of modern AI technologies. This session highlights real-world examples where AI enhances human connection and community engagement rather than replacing them. Learn practical strategies for integrating innovative tools with core values, empowering leaders to shape a future that honors both heritage and progress.
With extensive experience in enterprise technology, business development, and strategic growth in both corporate and then nonprofit sector, Lee is uniquely positioned to leverage AI tools for identifying growth opportunities, optimizing business processes, enhancing decision-making, and improving efficiency and impact in both corporate and nonprofit settings.
A veteran of the IT Industry, Lee worked for some of the “who’s who” of the computer industry: Zenith Data Systems, Memorex Telex, NetFRAME Systems, Tandem Computers, Compaq Computer Corporation, Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD).
Starting in the IT field in pre-sales technical roles, Truax continued on the sales and marketing side of the business. As a Business Development Executive, Truax drove the Northeast US semiconductor business development efforts for Advanced Micro Devices (AMD). Truax is also an NFL Stadium Technician serving the New England Patriots on the Official NFL Stats’ Crew (a game day assignment) for the last 34 seasons.
A graduate of Messiah University in Grantham, PA, with a BA in English, Lee also earned an MBA in Leadership from Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA, and is a doctoral candidate in business administration (DBA in Leadership) from Liberty University with an expected completion in 2025.
Truax became President of CBMC, Inc (USA). headquartered in Chattanooga, TN from 2009 – 2017 where he led the ministry in a significant digital transformation. Member of the Global Leadership Team (GLT) for CBMC International from 2010 – 2019, Truax served with a team of global leaders responsible for marketplace ministry operations across the globe.
From 2019 – 2021 served as President of the Fellowship of Companies for Christ International (FCCI), a global marketplace fellowship of companies stewarded for business excellence and Kingdom impact. In 2017, he launched LCT Consulting to provide consulting services and coaching in the SMB and not for profit arena. He also serves as the Vice President of Business Development and International Initiatives for Convene Corp., a top tier faith-integrated peer advised professional round table organization.
In 2024 Lee joined BestResults.AI.
The Chameleon’s Guide to Strategic Risk: Thriving in a Changing World
In an era where change is the only constant, playing it safe is the riskiest move of all. From launching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! to taking a chance on Oprah, David Sams has built a career on bold, strategic risks that transformed industries. In this high-energy, thought-provoking session, he will challenge you to embrace change, rethink outdated strategies, and take the necessary risks to keep Christian radio thriving in a shifting media landscape. Packed with real-world insights, humor, and a call to action, you will walk away feeling inspired to take one bold step, because the future belongs to those willing to evolve.
David Sams is a 9-time Emmy-winning media trailblazer who has spent 50 years transforming risks into iconic success stories. He launched Wheel of Fortune in syndication, turned Jeopardy! into a cultural phenomenon, and brought The Oprah Winfrey Show to skeptical markets—forever changing television. As CEO of MindHealth Management and Therapy.cc, David is breaking barriers in mental wellness, while his KeepTheFaith Media Networks inspires millions with life-changing content. Known for his mantra, “Be a chameleon, or be a dinosaur,” in his talk, “The Chameleon’s Guide to Strategic Risk,” David delivers practical, battle-tested strategies to help you adapt, innovate, and win in a rapidly changing media landscape. If you’re ready to turn challenges into opportunities, this is the session you can’t afford to miss.
The Future is Agentic: Working with AI Agents to Amplify Your Creative Calling
The future of AI is here – and its ‘Agentic’. Backed by data on emerging trends, unpack the rise of AI Agents. Discover how these powerful, highly-capable, behind-the-scenes AI ‘Teammates’ can supercharge your workflows, unlock new levels of productivity, and amplify your God-given creative calling like never before. Get ready to embrace what’s next, stay ahead, and remain on mission.
Natchi Lazarus is an International Marketing & Media Strategist. He specializes in teaching social media and AI to faith-based organizations, including churches, media ministries & nonprofits. He is the best-selling author of ‘The Connected Church’. He is the founder of CCA (Connected Church Online Academy) and Open Minds Digital Agency. With over two decades of experience in media and marketing, Natchi is a sought-after keynote speaker who regularly shares his insights and expertise at global events, conferences, seminars, and on various social media channels. He also serves as a guest faculty for ‘Media & Ministry’ program in seminaries and Bible colleges.
CMB’s On-Air Pulse: The First-Ever Research Study All About Personalities & Hosts
While radio stations frequently research their audience, no one has taken the time to ask the influential voices behind the mic – our personalities and talent – that is, until now. “CMB’s On-Air Pulse” study investigates personalities and hosts opinions about the state of broadcast radio, career aspirations, spiritual identities, and relationships with organizations and ministries. Jacobs Media, in partnership with CMB, created this first-ever research study comprised of on-air talent working in Christian music radio.
Jacobs Media celebrates its 42nd anniversary this fall, providing research and consulting guidance to media brands and organizations throughout North America, including commercial, public, and Christian radio, as well as digital strategic planning.
For the eleventh consecutive year, Jacobs Media’s annual Techsurvey in partnership with the Christian Music Broadcasters, has served as a guide to individual stations and networks.
Jacobs Media founder and president, Fred Jacobs, was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018, the first researcher/consultant to receive that honor.
In 2022, he and his brother Paul were the dual recipients of the NAB’s prestigious National Radio Award.
The Healing Journey
In today’s chaotic world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by toxic thoughts and the pressures of daily life, but there is hope and help available. Discover practical tips to help you use your mind to detox and grow your brain for success in all areas of life, grounded in the understanding that God has equipped you with the tools to thrive. Shift your mindset from one of stress to one of peace and empowerment, drawing strength from your faith. Uncover how small, actionable changes can lead to significant improvements in both your mental health and professional performance. With God’s guidance, the path to healthier thoughts and greater happiness may be closer than you think.
Dr. Caroline Leaf, clinical neuroscientist and communication pathologist, has spent over 40 years pioneering research on the mind-brain connection, neuroplasticity, and mental health. Her Geodesic Information Processing theory and Neurocycle methodology have transformed lives worldwide, helping people overcome mental health challenges and improve cognitive resilience. Through her podcast Cleaning Up the Mental Mess and 18 bestselling books in 24 languages, Dr. Leaf empowers individuals to detox their minds and thrive.
Bold Leadership: Becoming the Leader Others Want to Follow
What makes a leader truly compelling? It’s not just kindness or charisma—it’s boldness, courage, and intentionality. Jesus wasn’t just compassionate; he was a leader who made bold moves, took risks, and inspired deep loyalty in those who followed him.
Let’s walk through the key moments of Jesus’ public ministry to uncover the leadership qualities that drew people to him and changed the world. How did Jesus deposit vision, cultivate courage, and help his followers live for something greater than themselves? Be empowered to lead in a way that inspires others to follow—not because they have to, but because they want to.
Mac Lake is a highly respected leader, author, and founder of Multiply Group, where he helps leaders and organizations develop strategies to multiply their leadership impact. An inspirational trainer and leadership coach, Mac is gifted at simplifying complex ideas into actionable strategies that anyone can implement to achieve transformative results in their personal life, team, and organization. He has written seven books, including The Multiplication Effect and The Discipling Leaders Series, offering practical tools for leadership development. Mac and his wife, Cindy, live in Charleston, SC.
More info coming soon…
The Danger of Avoiding Risk
Many of us have constructed our entire lives on a false sense of comfort, power, and control. How does our habituation disposition towards self-preservation ultimately undermine us from engaging with God’s Kingdom, power, and purpose in our lives? Why is avoiding risk the most dangerous and perilous choice we can make?
Three studio releases in and KB is at his creative zenith. For years, the Tampa native has been something of an outlier in hip-hop, firmly placing a thumbprint on the game while invoking the power of spiritual conviction. Throughout a tireless decade-plus grind, KB has done his part and certainly put in the work. Among many milestones, his anthem “100” garnered “Rap/Hip-Hop Song of the Year” at the Dove Awards in 2014, while he scored four back-to-back #1 debuts on the Billboard Top Christian Albums Chart. Reacting with audiences worldwide, he has notably generated hundreds of millions of streams buoyed by standouts such as “Hold Me Back,” “No Chains,” and “Church Clap” [feat. Lecrae]. 2020 saw him elevate to another stratosphere altogether with His Glory Alone. It cracked the Top 5 of the Top Christian Albums Chart and Top 3 of the Contemporary Christian Albums Chart. Not to mention, “10K” amassed over 18 million Spotify streams and counting.
Shama Mrema is an African-born American-raised homeschool graduate, middle child, and former pastor’s kid who loves entertaining people! After taking the internet by storm in 2018 with his viral song “Veggie Tales Remix,” he has been a consistent entertainer on screens and stages. With over 400 million views on his comedy sketches and music videos, he is known for his hysterical stand-up comedy, top-notch videos, and hilarious characters. Shama has been married to Grace since September 2018, and they have three kids: Ezra, Zoey, and Lucy.
The Lifecycle of a Song
Discover how songs are developed, polished, and positioned for success, and gain insights into how radio promotion and airplay play a pivotal role in driving a song’s growth. Learn about the collaborative efforts that bring music to life and the strategies that help it connect with listeners and thrive in a competitive landscape. Whether you’re curious about song selection, chart strategies, or behind-the-scenes processes, this session will unveil the art and science behind creating hits that resonate.
Kris has been promoting records to radio for Centricity for the past 11 years. He was in Christian radio in Knoxville before that. He’s married with 3 kids (12, 10 , and 8), 4 goats, approximately 20 chickens, and a pony. He is a graduate and big fan of University of Tennessee. Making CCM fun again is one of his biggest goals.
The Lifecycle of a Song
Discover how songs are developed, polished, and positioned for success, and gain insights into how radio promotion and airplay play a pivotal role in driving a song’s growth. Learn about the collaborative efforts that bring music to life and the strategies that help it connect with listeners and thrive in a competitive landscape. Whether you’re curious about song selection, chart strategies, or behind-the-scenes processes, this session will unveil the art and science behind creating hits that resonate.
The Lifecycle of a Song
Discover how songs are developed, polished, and positioned for success, and gain insights into how radio promotion and airplay play a pivotal role in driving a song’s growth. Learn about the collaborative efforts that bring music to life and the strategies that help it connect with listeners and thrive in a competitive landscape. Whether you’re curious about song selection, chart strategies, or behind-the-scenes processes, this session will unveil the art and science behind creating hits that resonate.
The Lifecycle of a Song
Discover how songs are developed, polished, and positioned for success, and gain insights into how radio promotion and airplay play a pivotal role in driving a song’s growth. Learn about the collaborative efforts that bring music to life and the strategies that help it connect with listeners and thrive in a competitive landscape. Whether you’re curious about song selection, chart strategies, or behind-the-scenes processes, this session will unveil the art and science behind creating hits that resonate.
Jeremy got his start in radio while studying at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago. Over the last 20+ years, his radio journey has taken him from Chicago, to Nebraska, Oklahoma, NW Arkansas and for the last 10 years in St. Louis. He currently serves as Program/Music Director for 99.1 JOY FM (KLJY).
Fun facts: He met his wife at Moody Bible Institute where they both studied radio broadcasting, which even led to them working at a station together several years later. Also, he and his family absolutely LOVE cheering on St Louis CITY SC as season ticket holders!
Taking Bold, Faith-Driven Risks
Scott Beck understands risk. Hear about his 40-year journey and the countless risks he took to build companies like Blockbuster Video, Einstein’s Bros. Bagels, Boston Market, and many more. In 2013, Scott turned his expertise toward helping ministry leaders scale their impact through technology. Growth and impact come from taking bold, faith-driven risks while staying true to our mission. By utilizing our collective strength, trusting Jesus, and realigning with our purpose, we can thrive both personally and professionally, expanding our influence for His glory.
Scott Beck is the co-founder and CEO of Gloo, the trusted platform that connects ministry leaders to resources, people data and insights and funding so their people and communities flourish and their organizations thrive. After scaling successful businesses like Blockbuster Video, Einstein’s Bagel, and Boston Market, Scott turned his expertise to helping ministry leaders scale their impact through technology.
Scott Beck has spent 40 years learning about scaling businesses and supporting Champions that are helping people grow in relationship, spirit and wellness. As the CEO of Gloo he is putting that experience to work by serving Champions, helping them scale and supporting their core processes with exponential technology. Some of his experience is as follows:
Vice Chairman and COO of Blockbuster Entertainment Corp, store 1 thru 4,000, sold to Viacom in 1994
Chairman and CEO of Boston Market Inc
Founder and Chairman of Einstein/Noah Bagel Corp
Founding Investor and Board member of Ancestry.com
Founder Investor in HomeAdvisors.com
Partner and investor in over 50 venture technology companies
Founder and CEO of Waldo’s Dollar Mart De Mexico
Partner and Vice Chairman of Pacific Dental Services
Served as board member and advisor to many Not-For-Profit enterprises over the past 30 years
Culture Matters
Stewarding people is one of the greatest responsibilities of a leader, and building a healthy culture requires intentionality. Discover the five transformative phases of the LeadCulture framework, gain insights into the factors that strengthen or weaken your team’s culture, and learn how to identify and close the trust gaps that may be holding your team back.
Jenni Catron is a best selling author, speaker, and culture strategist dedicated to empowering leaders to cultivate healthy cultures and lead thriving organizations. She speaks at conferences and events nationwide, seeking to help leaders develop the clarity and confidence to lead well. As Founder and CEO of The 4Sight Group, she consults organizations on leadership, team culture and organizational health. With over 20 years experience in corporate and non-profit organizations, Jenni has a passion for helping leaders “put feet to their vision”.
Jenni is the author of several books including: The 4 Dimensions of Extraordinary Leadership, and USA Today Best Seller Culture Matters: A Framework for Helping Your Team Grow, Thrive and Be Unstoppable (February 2025).
She loves a fabulous cup of tea, great books, learning the game of tennis and hiking with her husband.
Uncharted: Today’s Successful Programming Path
Research, the chart, streaming, or heart? In an on-demand world with more choices than ever, taking risks in programming and music philosophy is essential. Challenge your assumptions by dissecting key music data points that drive audience retention and listener relevance.
Kenny Jay is an award-winning media consultant known for challenging traditional thinking and amplifying industry efforts.
From small towns to major markets, he has programmed radio brands across the U.S. and worked in label and artist management. Now, as President of HeyRateThis Research and Albright & O’Malley & Brenner in Chicago, Kenny drives growth for radio clients through talent coaching, audience insights, research, sales integration, ratings, and social media strategy.
When he’s not leading media strategies, he’s running marathons for charitable causes or running his kids to dance practice and hockey games.
Perspectives on Christian Radio: Lessons from a Retired Broadcaster
Bill Sammons’ first job in radio was 49 years ago. His last job ended a year ago with his retirement from WKNZ, The Bridge, in Delaware. He believes that Christian radio hits differently on this side of the dial, and he will share valuable insights on what we should focus on as the radio landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Bill will emphasize the importance of taking calculated risks to innovate and connect with audiences in new ways. Get inspired as we navigate the future of Christian radio with confidence and purpose, ensuring your station remains relevant and impactful in the lives of your listeners.
After a stint in commercial radio and TV News, Bill put Delaware’s first Christian radio station on the air in 1990. Later he helped found 88.7 The Bridge (WKNZ) in Delaware, which has grown into a network of 5 signals serving Delaware, Maryland and Virginia’s Eastern Shore and South Jersey. He continues to serve on the Board of Directors for The Bridge. He is a former member of CMB’s leadership team and Board.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Balance Mission and Money: Faith-Based Funding Without Compromise
Ben Moher • Chief Executive & Principal Consultant, Giving Three
Can your radio station grow revenue without compromising its mission? Yes! And it starts with understanding what motivates business giving. Together we’ll explore the four frames of corporate giving—profit-driven, values-based, public influence, and employee engagement. Using these insights, you’ll learn how to identify the ideal corporate partners, seek shared goals, and realize long term success. After our time together, you’ll walk away with practical ideas to attract the right partners, craft mission-friendly pitches, and expand revenue—all without sacrificing your calling or eroding listener trust.
FUNDRAISING
The Shifting Sands of Generational Giving: An Important Update
Rick Dunham • Founder+Chairman, Dunham+Company
In 2022, Dunham+Company conducted a study to explore generational differences in giving. This research was repeated in November of 2024 to identify shifts over the past two years. Rick Dunham will present valuable insights on how Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, and Boomers choose to give, including where generational generosity is directed, engagement methods, and what motivates action. Gain data-driven insights to enhance donor relationships and tailor your approach for each generation.
LEADERSHIP
Leading Transformation with AI
Lee Truax • Principal, BestResults.AI
“Leading Transformation with AI” presents an approach that blends servant leadership with the AI Transformation Method to foster organizational change while valuing and caring for people. Learn how leaders can empower their teams to use AI not as a replacement for human insight, but as a tool to enhance creativity, efficiency, and connection. Walk away with practical strategies to integrate ethical AI practices into everyday leadership. This servant leadership model drives transformation, builds a culture of trust and compassion and ensures that technology uplifts and supports the human spirit.
MARKETING
From Airwaves to Arenas: Maximizing the Radio & Concert Connection
Sam Cook • Director of Concerts & Events, Northwestern Media
Bill Montgomery • President / CEO, River Radio Ministries
Curtis Pinkerton • Director of Marketing, Awakening Events
Let’s go backstage on the partnership between radio and promoters to hear from both perspectives on how stations can expand their reach, strengthen listener engagement, and create unforgettable moments through concerts. Whether you’re looking to deepen artist connections, increase brand visibility, or make a lasting impact in your market, leave equipped with the tools, strategies, and real-world examples to help your station maximize the power of concerts and live events.
MUSIC & PROGRAMMING
The Right Data and the Right Partnerships
Kenny Jay • President, Albright & O’Malley & Brenner
You know those breakouts where you take endless pictures of the slides? This is one of those breakouts! We’re rolling up our sleeves and getting to work to build a better station. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of 2025 music discovery data points- yes, your gut still plays a role-plus, practical ways to maximize audience engagement and music industry partnerships.
ON-AIR
Authenticity on Air: Building Habits for a Successful, Relatable Radio Show
Angela Perelli • Content Creator / Talent Coach
Discover practical tips and habits to help you create a show that showcases your personality and connects deeply with your audience. Learn how to stay authentic, engage listeners, and deliver content that resonates, all while growing your show’s success.
SOCIAL & DIGITAL MEDIA
How to Build Your Personal Brand on Social Media in 2025
Zach Ford • CEO, Entersquare Social
You are more than a voice behind the mic.
You are a brand. Learn how to build your audience, boost engagement, and make your message impossible to ignore in the age of social media by using a simple formula that anyone can use. It’s the same formula that helped grow Dave Ramsey’s following to over 10 million, and it can grow your audience, too.
SPANISH
Your Spanish Audience – Growing Your Ratings and Relevancy
Andrew Finlayson • EVP Digital and AI, SmithGeiger
Today’s audience is changing by the minute. To truly connect with listeners, you need the most up-to-date insights into their habits, needs, and feelings. Gain a fresh look at today’s Latino and Spanish-speaking audiences through research focused on faith and Spanish-speaking listeners across the US, and discover how your station can better engage them. The findings and recommendations may surprise you, but one truth remains: local radio matters to Latinos.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Strengthening Radio Partnerships
Jared Mitchell • Sr. Director Radio & Donor Engagement, Convoy of Hope
Matt Hahn • US Director of Radio Marketing/Influencer Partnership Manager III, Compassion
Wes Lindsey • Sr. Director of Marketing, Medi-Share
Discover how radio can work together with partners to create impactful, mission-driven partnerships that resonate with audiences and communities alike. Representatives from three organizations will share strategies for elevating collaborations, exploring innovative approaches to engagement, and aligning shared values for maximum impact. Whether you’re looking to deepen existing relationships or start new ones, get inspired with actionable takeaways to create powerful synergies between radio and faith-based organizations.
FUNDRAISING
Write Less, Raise More: Crafting Concise Messaging for Fundraising Success
Zach Boehm • VP of Strategy, Powered By Text
In today’s fast-paced world, capturing attention is harder than ever. Learn how to cut through the noise and connect with donors using the power of concise communication. This interactive session will explore proven strategies for crafting compelling short-form messages, from impactful text messages to engaging social media ads. You’ll discover how to shift your perspective from “ask” to “impact,” master a simple formula for persuasive appeals, and leave equipped with practical tips to write less and raise more for your station.
LEADERSHIP
The Power of Developing Team Standards
Jeff Joiner • CEO, Jeff Joiner Training
Ordinary organizations have a long and ever-growing list of rules. While world-class winning teams have rules, the focus is less on rules and more on STANDARDS. Standards reflect who you want to be as a team, determine how people communicate with each other, and drive unity. Standards lead to accountability and great results. Hear how to have more engaged employees, better teamwork, less conflict and drama, and consistent movement toward accomplishing organizational goals.
MARKETING
Brand Out Above the Rest!!
Jim [Ed] Hardaway • Brand Enthusiast | Strategic Partnerships | Creativity Evangelist | Catalyst of First Impressions
Establish a solid foundation for your marketing promotions and take your community impact to the next level. Promotional success depends on engagement, audience awareness, and a positive consumer experience. Brand consistency is just as important as brand identity. Let’s fuel your creative potential by focusing on inspiration, intentionality, and ideation. Get encouragement, resources, and practical tools to become a better promoter and brand agent.
MUSIC & PROGRAMMING
Know Your Audience to Grow Your Audience
Chuck Finney • President, Finney Media
The results are in for the 2025 Finney Media Why Listen® survey! Join Finney Media President Chuck Finney as he reveals this year’s results on why your listener listens, why she leaves, why she gives, and how enormously positive she perceives CCM radio. Come ready to take notes, grow your audience, and better understand who she is and why she listens.
ON-AIR
Solo Flight: Becoming a Better Talent Without a Coach
Tom Hanrahan • President, CoachedUP
You are talented but feel stuck. You want feedback, but no one’s giving it. When you’re on air without a coach, it’s all about your instincts, tools, and preparation. Let’s put together your flight manual. You will discover foundational building blocks of successful on-air talent and in turn, deepen your connection with listeners and drive your own long-term improvement.
SOCIAL & DIGITAL MEDIA
Social Media Mastery
Rohn Starling • Creative Strategist, Starling Media
Social media seems like it’s moving too fast, like you just can’t keep up! Just can’t get it right and feeling left out? Let’s breakdown the strategies used to stay on top of your game consistently and get results that make a difference in your world.
SPANISH
The Value of Content and Programming
Harold Austin • Media Consultant, Global Media RCP
In today’s competitive media landscape, the value of audio content and programming is crucial to increase listenership and gain loyalty. The same is true for Christian Radio targeting Spanish-speaking audiences. Learn why the execution of programming basics is instrumental to engaging Spanish listeners and how to ensure that family, faith, and values remain the cornerstone of such a unique format.
Stepping Out in Faith: A Journey of Risk & Connection
Amy Brown has built her career on authenticity, storytelling, and taking bold risks. Hear about her faith journey and the defining moments that shaped her path. From stepping into the unknown to embracing her calling, Amy offers real life lessons on courage, purpose, and taking intentional steps-both on and off the air-all while creating deep, meaningful connections with her listeners.
Amy Brown is co-host The Bobby Bones Show, the ACM and CMA Award-winning program heard on 190 radio stations and is the #1 Country morning show in the U.S. reaching millions of listeners. Amy also co-hosts Country Top 30 with Bobby Bones, a four-hour music program airing on more than 240 stations in the U.S. and Canada, and hosts Women of iHeartCountry, a show devoted to supporting female artists and voices airing on more than 150 iHeartCountry radio stations nationwide. Additionally, She hosts the Feeling Things with Amy Brown and Outweigh with Amy Brown podcasts, and oversees/produces the Amy Brown Podcast Network, which is dedicated to health and wellness programming. A Gracie Award winner and one of Radio Ink’s “Most Influential Women in Radio,” Amy also hosts iHeartRadio Album Release Parties for some of Country music’s biggest stars and participates in the company’s annual events like the iHeartRadio Music Awards, iHeartRadio Music Festival and iHeartCountry Festival. Inside and outside the studio, Amy is passionate about raising awareness and funds for numerous charitable organizations including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, TJ Martell Foundation, and the American Red Cross. In 2013, she launched #PimpinJoy, a movement promoting random acts of joy, which was created to honor her late mother Judy and the positive way she battled cancer. The movement spurred the launch of a #PimpinJoy clothing line, which has raised millions of dollars for various charities.
Unlock the Magic of Audio Storytelling Today!
Steve Jobs said it best: “The most powerful person in the world is the storyteller.” Being a captivating storyteller is a master skill for radio and podcast talents. Learn how to apply a crucial storytelling component that most on-air personalities and podcast hosts fail to include in their stories. Discover how to find, structure, and deliver compelling stories designed specifically for audio storytelling.
Jimmy Kimmel, Ryan Seacrest, Wally, The Bert Show, Scott & Kelli, Roula & Ryan, K-love’s Amy, Gary Bryan, DeDe, Air 1’s Mandy, Kidd Kraddick, and Dave Ryan are just a few of the top talents Randy Lane has coached.
Randy has earned numerous industry awards, including being named Consultant of the Year at the Worldwide Radio Summit twice. He was a four-time Billboard Consultant of the Year nominee.
In 1996, he founded The Randy Lane Company. The Randy Lane Company’s mission is to provide radio stations with brand depth by developing high-definition personality shows.
Randy has collaborated with major broadcasting companies including EMF, Leighton, CBS/Entercom/Audacy, Cox, Cumulus, Hubbard, Saga, iHeart, Viacom, Dick, Univision, Alpha, Lotus, Hearst, Beasley, and Rogers Communications in Canada.
Randy has long been a student of the creative process and human potential, completing several Artist’s Way courses, The Forum, and numerous creativity workshops.
He and his wife, JoAnn, enjoy collaborating, hiking, and traveling.
Stepping Out in Faith: A Journey of Risk & Connection
Amy Brown has built her career on authenticity, storytelling, and taking bold risks. Hear about her faith journey and the defining moments that shaped her path. From stepping into the unknown to embracing her calling, Amy offers real life lessons on courage, purpose, and taking intentional steps-both on and off the air-all while creating deep, meaningful connections with her listeners.
As a radio personality, Donna Cruz has done a little bit of everything. With a rich background in both mainstream and Christian media. Her career began in Top 40, rock, and country radio before she followed a calling into ministry broadcasting in 2002. Over the years, she has appeared on VH1, served as an entertainment reporter, and brought her voice and heart to stations across the country.
Donna is currently the co-host of Keep The Faith and can be heard on KCBI Dallas, Word FM, His Radio, KSGN, and The Family Radio Network—where she continues to share stories of hope, encouragement, and faith with her audience.
She’s married to Don (yes, Don and Donna) and they enjoy cooking and gardening at their home in central Texas.
Radio & the Music Industry in 2025 and Beyond
As radio and the music industry navigate current business realities, radio finds itself in a new role in support of artists and songs. What can radio expect in this ever-evolving partnership with the music industry? How can we help? Does the music industry need our help anymore? Radio & Music Industry Consultant Sam Milkman moderates a discussion around trends in radio and music.
Sam joined Coleman Insights in the 2000s, initially serving as president of the company’s Music Forecasting division and was then named as a vice president working with Coleman Insights’ radio clients in 2015. Prior to joining the company, Sam held broadcast programming and operational positions, including Operations Director of WXRK-FM/New York, Research Director of WHTZ-FM/New York, and Program Director of WMMR-FM/Philadelphia. He began his career as a litigation, intellectual property, and entertainment attorney at the Philadelphia law firm of Ballard, Spahr. Sam holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Pennsylvania and a Juris Doctorate from Cornell Law School.
Radio & the Music Industry in 2025 and Beyond
As radio and the music industry navigate current business realities, radio finds itself in a new role in support of artists and songs. What can radio expect in this ever-evolving partnership with the music industry? How can we help? Does the music industry need our help anymore? Radio & Music Industry Consultant Sam Milkman moderates a discussion around trends in radio and music.
Radio & the Music Industry in 2025 and Beyond
As radio and the music industry navigate current business realities, radio finds itself in a new role in support of artists and songs. What can radio expect in this ever-evolving partnership with the music industry? How can we help? Does the music industry need our help anymore? Radio & Music Industry Consultant Sam Milkman moderates a discussion around trends in radio and music.
Darren has over twenty-five years of experience in Christian music, joining Provident Music Group in 1999. After serving as the Chief Operating Officer for Sony/Provident, he joined Fair Trade Services (FTS) in 2020 in the same position. He was elevated to President of FTS in January 2024. Darren holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee and an MBA from Middle Tennessee State University. Fair Trade’s roster includes MercyMe, Phil Wickham, CeCe Winans, Micah Tyler, Megan Woods, and others.
Creating Cultures of True Belonging (Not Just Inclusion)
Belonging is more than being included—it’s being invested. We’ll unpack what real belonging looks like, how to get there, and why it requires more than just policies or perks. Research shows that a sense of belonging matters more than just about anything else in our organizations and teams. Why is that and why does it matter? We will answer these questions and provide a simple framework on how to build a culture of belonging.
Brian Dishon works with people and organizations to navigate challenges and grow into their best through intentional words and meaningful relationships. As a Culture & Leadership Coach and Consultant, he helps teams build belonging-driven cultures using his Cycle of Belonging framework. Brian also teaches a four-part leadership course rooted in Caring, Coaching, and Correcting, and equips leaders with his signature PRIME method. He’s partnered with companies across entertainment, construction, non-profit, and radio to spark real transformation.
Building Teams That Thrive: The Art of Placing the Right People in the Right Roles
Let’s be honest—building a thriving team isn’t easy. Sometimes we get it right, sometimes we learn. Placing the right people in the right roles is a messy, meaningful art. From leadership blind spots to breakthrough moments, you will hear real stories, practical strategies, and a few hard-earned lessons on how self-awareness, clarity, and a values-driven approach can transform a team. Whether you’re hiring your next great teammate or building your bench, you will walk away with encouragement, tools, and a reminder that purpose-driven people build purpose-driven teams.
Kelli Frieler grew up immersed in the world of broadcasting, watching firsthand how local media could shape communities and fuel business growth. That early exposure led to a passion for helping organizations connect strategy, marketing, and leadership in a way that drives real impact. From co-owning an auto dealership to leading digital transformation in media, Kelli has built high-growth teams, developed scalable systems, and helped businesses navigate change. As the founder of Vibrant Impact, she partners with leaders to bridge the gap between vision and execution, ensuring growth is both meaningful and sustainable. A believer that leadership starts with self-awareness, Kelli helps teams align purpose, talent, and strategy for long-term success. When she’s not helping businesses thrive, she’s exploring the world with her family and cheering on the Green Bay Packers.
True North Leadership: The Key to Thriving Through Crisis, Chaos, and Uncertainty
In an era of constant crises, chaos, and uncertainty, leaders need a proven framework that equips them to face adversity, not run from it. Effective leaders anchor their leadership to their God-given identity, values, and purpose. Discover how to access real-time resilience and agility by leveraging your faith, physiology, mindset, and support system, empowering you to transform stress into strategy, confusion into conviction, and adversity into a launchpad for Kingdom impact. With practical tools rooted in Scripture, psychological research, neuroscience, and identity-driven leadership, you’ll leave empowered to lead with boldness, clarity, and unwavering spiritual confidence – no matter the storm you may be facing!
Dr. Andy Garrett is a globally recognized expert in identity formation, organizational culture, and radical resilience. As the creator of the True North Radical Resilience framework, Dr. Garrett equips high-performing leaders and organizations to thrive — not just in peak moments, but especially in the face of adversity and change.
Drawing on decades of research, psychological expertise, and real-world leadership development, Andy’s work has helped executive teams, Fortune 500 companies, and high-growth businesses transform disengagement into purpose, burnout into breakthrough, and chaos into clarity. His approach is deeply rooted in identity — helping leaders align who they are with how they lead, so they can build cultures that are resilient, high-performing, and self-fueling.
Inspired by the legacy of his grandfather, Carl Karcher — the founder of Carl’s Jr. — Andy learned early on the power of living out your faith with authenticity and integrity across every domain of life. That example fuels his belief that the pursuit of excellence and truth always leads back to God — making his work with leaders deeply fulfilling and eternally significant.
Andy has been married to his beautiful bride Abby for 17 years, and together they’re raising their two children, Avery and Asher, in Southern California. They are active members of Mariners Church and love staying outdoors, taking full advantage of the SoCal sunshine.
Mission-Driven Marketing: Growing Your Ministry with Heavy Listeners and Sustaining Donors
Your most loyal listeners and your dedicated donors may not be the same people—but with the right approach, you can reach both effectively. Discover how to segment your audience and tailor your messaging for maximum impact, even on a tight budget. Whether your goal is to expand your reach or strengthen donor connections, you’ll walk away with practical strategies to boost your marketing and elevate your ministry’s influence.
Andrew Curran joined DMR/Interactive in 2004, quickly rising through the ranks. He was appointed COO in 2011, President in 2013, and named CEO in 2023. His early career includes roles with ESPN Radio in Bristol, CT and iHeartMedia, where he honed his expertise in audience engagement and media marketing.
At DMR/Interactive, Curran leads a team that leverages human curated AI, data analytics and consumer insights to craft multi-dimensional marketing campaigns. These targeted campaigns drive growth by engaging the employed, heavy listeners who matter most. As Andrew often says, “Our clients create great content. We make sure the right people hear it.”
An industry advocate, Curran regularly shares thought leadership through his End Result blog and speaking engagements at key industry events such as the Radio Advertising Bureau’s One Voice for Radio Webinar on the 3-Minute Qualifier (2025), CMB Momentum (2025, 2024, 2019, 2015), All Access Audio Summit (2023, 2022, 2021), NAB/RAB Radio Show (2017), the Conclave (2017), Nielsen Audio Hispanic PD Clinic (2016), Nielsen Audio Client Conference (2015), and Country Radio Seminar (2014, 2013). A sought-after speaker, he shares actionable insights and forward-thinking strategies on audience engagement and innovation in the ever-evolving audio landscape.
How to Build a Social Strategy That Actually Moves People
Most radio stations treat social media like a promo board—posting often but rarely connecting. But in today’s digital world, social media IS marketing. Learn a simple, scalable system for creating content that actually moves people and supports your broader marketing goals. Learn how to transform your team’s personality into platform-ready content, sharpen your strategy, and see real examples of what’s working right now.
Zach Ford is the founder of Entersquare, a Nashville TN based social media content and marketing agency who has helped brands like Dave Ramsey, Charity Water and Kingdom Story Company produce transformation based content to grow their audiences and their sales. Zach hosts Social Media Mavericks, a Q&A YouTube show where he speaks on how to build influence through social media, creator tools, and turning content into conversions.
Mission-Driven Marketing: Growing Your Ministry with Heavy Listeners and Sustaining Donors
Your most loyal listeners and your dedicated donors may not be the same people—but with the right approach, you can reach both effectively. Discover how to segment your audience and tailor your messaging for maximum impact, even on a tight budget. Whether your goal is to expand your reach or strengthen donor connections, you’ll walk away with practical strategies to boost your marketing and elevate your ministry’s influence.
Bill is the President/CEO of River Radio Ministries, in Columbus, OH. Cedarville University was Bill’s first stop in radio, as a DJ and sales director. Since then, his career has been focused in radio sales, sales management, leading teams with Salem Media in Columbus, OH and Seattle, WA for over a decade. The last 16+ years, Bill has led the sales team at Radio Ministries in Columbus, OH, with the last 3 years as the President/CEO. In 2017, he was named Local Sales Manager of the Year by Radio Ink. Bill recently launched a podcast on 2 of his favorite topics, Leadership & Lattes. He’s been married to his extremely patient wife for 31 years and has 4 grown children and a fantastic dog named Thor.
Beyond Roll Banner: Going BIG with Less
Learn tips and tricks for marketing on a budget. We will walk through best practices, building the team, and put together a promotional plan custom for your brand. You will leave with a ready to rock promotion that will drive ratings and revenue.
Emily Tinney currently serves the NYC community as the Director of Marketing for Audacy. Her radio journey began in Grand Rapids, MI, where she won a radio contest to co-host and produce WHTS’ Todd Chance Radio Show. From her time on-air to leading a marketing team in NYC today, Emily has worked in 8 unique markets and learned extensively from each one. She has dabbled in just about everything from hosting, producing, web design and social media, to production, sales, promotions, corporate sustainability and culture creation.
Emily’s greatest passion is helping others, and considers it not only her duty, but her privilege to pour back into the communities that her team broadcasts in, and has been given the honorary title by her team of “Chief Happiness Maker.” A true believer in terrestrial broadcast, the magic of radio, and creating once in a lifetime experiences and memories for her community.
It’s Time … You’re Probably Not Top of Mind
We have the privilege of working with one of the most powerful and enduring advertising platforms of all time—radio. For many years, that alone was enough to keep us top of mind within our listening communities. Radio teams across the U.S. are true experts in promotion. However, as the media landscape continues to evolve, relying solely on traditional methods may no longer be enough. We have a life-changing message to share—let’s take the time to plan strategically and allocate resources so we can reach even more people with it.
Brandi Reichert is the Director of Strategic Marketing at Gateway Creative Broadcasting (home of 991. JOY FM and BOOST Radio). She has spent over 20 years in the wild world of radio and TV sales and marketing, helping build brand awareness and boost ratings and revenue for some of the biggest media groups in St. Louis. She has managed to blend creativity, great relationships, and a mix of media strategies into something that works (at least most days). Brandi is passionate about using media to build meaningful connections that engage audiences and leave a lasting impact.
You Don’t Need Me Anymore?
The culture is shifting—fast. You can chase it…or you can change the game. If you believe people still need you simply because you exist, you’re already losing ground. In an age where cutting-edge technology collides with timeless truths, marketing and branding are more vital than ever—though their most powerful applications may surprise you. We’re living in a world where identity is being redefined, ownership feels temporary, and strategic brand positioning is the only thing that keeps you indispensable. We will confront the forces reshaping radio—from evolving audience habits to a growing spiritual hunger that challenges old norms—and show how intentional marketing, self-directed research, and a return to core convictions can turn uncertainty into unstoppable momentum.
Dan has been an executive leader at Dunham+Company since 2019 and currently leads the creative team and all product development as Chief Product Officer. He pushes the boundaries of digital marketing, writing, video, and design – all while being grounded in data and analytics. Weekly time committed to innovation and research is at the core of how Dan and his team remain equipped to effectively serve ministry partners.
Dan originally began his professional life as a worship pastor and went on to spend nearly 15 years serving in various leadership and executive roles at churches of 3,000-13,000 people. Over the course of his career, Dan has also worked as a communications and creative director, as well as managing video, writing, graphic design, web, and social media teams that serve local churches, church planting organizations, broadcast ministries, and conferences. Dan was also a founding member of Vertical Worship and has extensive experience working with management companies and record labels in the creation, marketing, and distribution of music.
After more than a decade in communications and marketing, Dan now combines all his experience to lead product development, creative direction and digital marketing at Dunham+Company. Dan is passionate about the local church and his ultimate goal is to help ministry partners have more impact for the Kingdom.
Dan and his wife have four children.
Leading Through the Noise: Real Talk with Radio Executives
Leadership isn’t just about strategy—it’s a calling. In this honest and faith-centered conversation, three seasoned radio executives will share the real leadership challenges they’re facing today and how they’re relying on God’s wisdom to navigate them. From navigating shifting audience habits and economic pressures to managing teams in a hybrid world, these leaders will share the wins, the struggles, and the lessons they’re learning along the way. Just honest insights and practical takeaways from those in the trenches.
Sandi Brown is the founder and President of Gateway Creative Broadcasting in St. Louis, MO, home of JOY FM and BOOST RADIO. She is co-host of JOY IN THE MORNING and has written 4 books, including “Healing Out Loud: How To Embrace God’s Love When You Don’t Like Yourself.” Sandi worked as a Creative Writer and Producer for Focus on the Family. Sandi loves to spend time with her family, go on walks and laugh, or “cackle” as her friends and co-workers call it.
Leading Through the Noise: Real Talk with Radio Executives
Leadership isn’t just about strategy—it’s a calling. In this honest and faith-centered conversation, three seasoned radio executives will share the real leadership challenges they’re facing today and how they’re relying on God’s wisdom to navigate them. From navigating shifting audience habits and economic pressures to managing teams in a hybrid world, these leaders will share the wins, the struggles, and the lessons they’re learning along the way. Just honest insights and practical takeaways from those in the trenches.
Art began his career in 1990 in Phoenix, AZ serving in several management positions with KRDS Phoenix, AZ, KSGN Riverside, CA, KLTX Los Angeles, CA and EMF Broadcasting in Rocklin, CA. Art joined Pillar Ministries in 2006 as General Manager at STAR 93.3 FM WAKW in Cincinnati, OH.
In 2019, Art assumed the role of Executive Director to oversee the Pillar Ministries Media Group, Pillar Media, which included STAR 93.3 FM Cincinnati, STAR 99.1 FM New York and AM 910 KPOF in Denver, CO. Pillar Ministries acquired two new FM’s in the Denver, CO in 2024, STAR 101.5 and FLO 107.1.
Leading Through the Noise: Real Talk with Radio Executives
Leadership isn’t just about strategy—it’s a calling. In this honest and faith-centered conversation, three seasoned radio executives will share the real leadership challenges they’re facing today and how they’re relying on God’s wisdom to navigate them. From navigating shifting audience habits and economic pressures to managing teams in a hybrid world, these leaders will share the wins, the struggles, and the lessons they’re learning along the way. Just honest insights and practical takeaways from those in the trenches.
Since graduating from Olivet Nazarene University in 1993, Jason Sharp has devoted his life’s work to the calling placed on his heart at the age of 18, to passionately serve God through the ministry of Christian radio. Jason and his family followed that call in 2007 when they moved to Minnesota in order to be a part of the Northwestern family. Jason currently serves as Sr. Vice President for Media, overseeing all of Northwestern Media’s properties and brands.
Silent Boards Send Loud Signals: Getting Your Board Onboard with Fundraising
Fundraising can be one of the most intimidating responsibilities for nonprofit board members, especially in Christian ministries. Despite its importance to mission fulfillment, fear and uncertainty often keep them on the sidelines. Leaders seeking support from their boards frequently face hesitation or disengagement. Uncover one of the most overlooked blind spots that undermines fundraising potential. Tackle the fear factor head-on, explore proven best practices of high-performing nonprofit boards, and walk through a hands-on, energizing exercise you can take back and use immediately with your own board. Gain clear insight into what to stop doing, what to start doing, and how to partner effectively with your board—just in time for year-end giving season.
Dusty Rhodes has championed CCM radio & media’s impact in peoples’ lives while serving our industry for over 40 years! His work includes 22+ years with WayFM helping launch and lead most of its radio stations in cities nationwide (now owned by Hope Media Group), 11 years leading CCM pioneer station WPIT-FM in Pittsburgh (now WORD-FM), and most recently as Chief Development Officer at Marconi Award-winning station WGTS in Washington DC. As a mission-driven innovator he has led as a Senior Vice President, Chief Development Officer, Chief Operating Officer, as a radio station General Manager, Program Director and On-air Talent, and served on a number of boards.
Today as President of Mission Growth Strategies, Dusty Rhodes helps Christian radio and other nonprofit ministries expand their mission impact by strategically and collaboratively helping improve their fundraising effectiveness.
Airwaves & Algorithms: Building Digital Ministry with Strategic Marketing
Faith-based media can amplify ministry in the digital space by creating intentional, digital-first content that strengthens on-air presence, expands audience touchpoints, and deepens engagement—while preserving the relational heart of Christian radio. Discover practical frameworks and real-world examples showing how broadcast, digital, and marketing teams can collaborate to lead audiences, not just reach them. Learn the strategic, creative, and technical shifts needed to move from repurposing content to building a vibrant digital ministry, and how targeted marketing can boost discoverability, foster authentic relationships, and advance your mission across platforms.
Taylor Anderson is Chief Marketing Officer at Intentional Life Media, leading content and marketing teams for Family Life Radio. He helps ministries thrive in a digital first world by combining scalable systems with mission driven content strategies. Taylor is passionate about clear leadership, healthy teams, and creativity in ministry. He is also a husband, dad of three incredible kids and a space fanatic who loves Jesus.
Crisis Ready: Building a Communication Plan Before You Need One
When a crisis strikes, the worst time to figure out what to say is in the heat of the moment. Prepare a clear, actionable communication plan so your team can respond with confidence and clarity. Come explore key steps for crafting messages, choosing spokespeople, and maintaining trust with your audience. Whether the situation is big or small, being ready makes all the difference.
As Director of Marketing at Northwestern Media, Carl helps some of Christian Radio’s top stations tell their stories and serve their communities.
In addition to teaching public relations at Northwestern, Carl has served his community on various non-profit boards and was recently elected to the city council. Carl and his wife Katie enjoy trail running and spending time with their adult daughters. This fall, Carl will be adding the title “Grandpa” to his resume.
In Sync: How PDs & Marketers Build Stronger Stations
When programming and marketing work hand in hand, the results can be powerful. Let’s pull back the curtain on how programming and marketing align vision, strategy, and execution to grow their station’s image, community presence, and overall impact. From navigating tension points to celebrating shared wins, you’ll get an inside look at how these two critical roles collaborate to build brand, grow audience, and drive engagement. Walk away with real world examples, fresh ideas, and actionable tips to strengthen the relationship between content and communication.
Scott Herrold is a media executive and an award winning radio host. He was named one of “Radio’s Best Directors” by Radio Ink. Edison Media Research also listed Scott as one of “Radio’s 30 Under 30 Shining Stars” two different times before his hair was gray. Scott is one of the founders of Creative Cardio showprep, that shares idea starters for radio shows everyday. He’s worked in Mainstream CHR, Hot AC, Rock & Christian radio. (96.3 WDVD/Detroit, 93.1 DRQ/Detroit, 106.9 K-Hits/Tulsa, 89.3 KSBJ/Houston, WayFM Network, Vida Unida/New York, Houston & Miami, 100.3 The Kross/Tulsa & SOS Radio Network to name a few) Scott is also a Cum Laude graduate of Eastern Michigan University’s business school & is also in the Nevada Broadcasters Hall of Fame.
Leading Through the Noise: Real Talk with Radio Executives
Leadership isn’t just about strategy—it’s a calling. In this honest and faith-centered conversation, three seasoned radio executives will share the real leadership challenges they’re facing today and how they’re relying on God’s wisdom to navigate them. From navigating shifting audience habits and economic pressures to managing teams in a hybrid world, these leaders will share the wins, the struggles, and the lessons they’re learning along the way. Just honest insights and practical takeaways from those in the trenches.
Ty McFarland has been programming stations in the format for the past 30+ years at stations such as KTSY/Boise, WGTS/Washington, D.C., K-LOVE network, KSBJ/Houston, and most recently KCMS/Seattle. He’s optimistic about the future of our format, and loves going to work every day.
Danny Adams is a dynamic entertainer, speaker, actor, and author from Indianapolis, Indiana. He’s best known for his previous work with Kristin and Danny, and their viral online content, which captivated audiences and garnered over 500 million views worldwide. Today, Danny travels nationwide, bringing humor, connection, and joy to corporate and community events through emceeing and his interactive show, Laughter is Medicine. When he’s not entertaining audiences, Danny enjoys coaching youth sports, volunteering with his church youth group, and spending quality time with his family.
BRANDING / STRATEGY
Perception Is the Real Platform
Radio’s greatest limitation isn’t technology, talent, or reach. It’s the story the industry tells about itself and the one others repeat. Reframing radio through a PR lens, we’ll unpack how perception shapes investment, talent pipelines, advertiser confidence, and cultural relevance, and why fixing the narrative may matter more than fixing the medium. Because what people think you are often matters more than what you actually do.
Phil Becker is a media executive, innovator, and speaker who has spent his career at the forefront of audio, technology, and audience behavior. As a former Head of Programming for more than 200 radio stations, he has led large-scale content and talent strategy while consistently pioneering what came next—becoming the first to bring AI on air in radio, the first to integrate influencers as broadcast talent, and the first independent U.S. radio operator to launch station apps years ahead of competitors.
Phil has programmed in three countries, launched and developed some of the nation’s largest syndicated programs, owned and operated his own station group, and created multiple podcasts generating millions of downloads annually. His talks focus on creativity, leadership, and how media brands win using his three-pillar framework: creativity, community, and connection.
AUDIENCE / STRATEGY
Greater Than the Noise: Reaching a Spiritually Curious Generation
Explore key social and spiritual trends shaping our audience today. There is an unexpected rise of interest in Jesus, especially among younger adults. What is driving this change, and how can your station respond in a way that truly connects in this spiritually open moment?
David Kinnaman is the author of the bestselling books Faith For Exiles, Good Faith, You Lost Me and unChristian. He is CEO of Barna Group, a leading research and communications company that works with churches, nonprofits, and businesses ranging from film studios to financial services. Since 1995, Barna has directed interviews with more than two million individuals and overseen thousands of U.S. and global research studies. He lives in Fort Worth, Texas and has three adult children.
LEADERSHIP
Managing Leadership Anxiety: Yours and Theirs
“Reactivity” is the only form of anxiety that is contagious. We catch and spread it, and it disrupts teamwork and cultural health. This session will explore the science of reactivity and offer core skills to notice, name and diffuse reactivity patterns in you and your team, helping lower stress and pressure while increasing wellbeing and team connection.
Steve is the author of Managing Leadership Anxiety: Yours and Theirs and The Expectation Gap and also a columnist and host of Christianity Today’s Being Human podcast. Steve founded Capable Life to help people lower anxiety, break stuck patterns and increase well being in the workplace, home place and in your faith.
Steve was first exposed to Family Systems Theory when he was a chaplain and he later studied it in graduate school. Steve holds sixteen hundred hours of supervised ministry in Clinical Pastoral Education and is a Spiritual Care Professional in the ACPE. He holds a Master of Divinity from Emmanuel Christian Seminary with a thesis focusing on the dignity laws of Leviticus and Exodus and how a suburban church can move beyond charity to address systemic poverty.
Steve has served in a variety of pastoral roles for 26 years, the majority of those years as a lead pastor. He married Lisa and they have two sons and a daughter, in whom they take great delight. When Steve is not working, you can find him laughing with his family, knee-deep in a trout stream, or trying a guitar he cannot afford at a local music store.
INSPIRATION
The Voice of Unity: Greater Than the Noise
Radio professionals are navigating constant change and pressure to prove relevance in a digital world. But the biggest disruption isn’t external. It can be the inner voice that whispers, “I am not enough.” That voice can lead to shame, self-sabotage, and self-doubt. When we are grounded in our worth, we communicate to connect. From that inner steadiness, we can strengthen our external voice, elevating humanity, affirming the dignity of listeners and colleagues, and becoming a voice for unity.
Dr. Pascal Losambe, an accomplished author, speaker, and consultant, brings a wealth of expertise. Holding a Bachelor’s in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and a Master of Science in Biology focusing on Neurobiology, Dr. Losambe’s educational journey is marked by excellence, including the prestigious Donald J. White Award for teaching.
Dr. Losambe’s commitment extends beyond academia; he played a vital role in the United Front Initiative. He contributed as the keynote presenter and co-curriculum developer, fostering regional unity and reconciliation. Together with his wife and business partner, Dr. Crystal Losambe, he co-authored the impactful book, Breaking the Barriers to Belonging: United by Our Biology and Shared Humanity.
As a sought-after consultant, Dr. Losambe addresses diverse topics like educational leadership, and organizational culture. His influence is felt in strategic vision initiatives for institutions and workshops on cultural competence at national and international conferences. Recognitions include the Mahogany Columbus Outstanding Educator Award and invitations to advisory boards at Purdue University and other esteemed organizations, showcasing his dedication to excellence.
CULTURE
Step in the Circle
Our culture faces an epidemic of disengagement. Fear of authentic interaction and uncomfortable situations has leaders and creatives retreating, anxious, and disconnected both personally and professionally. Bradley Rapier draws from over 30 years of experience in hip-hop dance culture from Hollywood to Broadway, blending story and movement to challenge you to rethink your approach to engagement. Learn how to “step in the circle,” where people connect and collaborate at their highest levels, and where teams are reactivated and united in purpose.
Bradley Rapier is an award-winning, Emmy-nominated choreographer, speaker, and author with over three decades of experience leading teams and talent, from Hollywood to Broadway. He’s helped launch countless artists and led crews onto, So You Think You Can Dance, Dancing With the Stars, along with multiple collaborations with the directors of Hamilton and Jesus Christ Superstar.
As Bradley surveyed the culture he saw an epidemic of disengagement. Too many leaders were overwhelmed, and their teams were disconnected. So Bradley developed Groove Theory®, drawing on hip-hop dance culture to rethink how we lead. He activates leaders, showing them how to lean into challenges, re-engage their teams, and create workplaces where creativity, authentic interaction and well-being soar. Bradley’s first book, Step in the Circle will be released in Spring of 2026.
STORYTELLING
Connecting Your Story in a Rapidly Changing World
It’s said that history doesn’t repeat itself – it rhymes. Vinyl records and printed books are on the rise again as younger generations discover the power of tangible content formats – something older generations just nod and smile about. In this post-information, AI-driven age, people are searching more than ever for purpose, belonging, and meaning. Explore how to better connect the story you’re telling with the felt needs of your audience and how content formats can be designed to thoughtfully welcome those who are searching and point them to the One who offers hope and peace that passes all understanding.
Rick Rekedal is an award-winning storyteller with a three-decade career bringing truth, meaning, and hope through creative expression. He spent more than 20 years at DreamWorks Studios in senior creative leadership roles, contributing to beloved franchises including How to Train Your Dragon, Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, Trolls, and The Prince of Egypt. His work has earned numerous industry honors, including Annie Awards and Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards. Rick currently serves as Chief Creative Officer at Belmont University and holds the AWC Chair for Faith-Inspired Storyteling. He is also the founder of StoryCrate and an accomplished author, with a new young adult novel, The Cry of Ramah, releasing in 2026.
FUTURE / STRATEGY
Designing Tomorrow’s Station Today: Preparing Your Station, Your Team, and Your Listeners for 2030
We’re closer to 2030 than 2020. Are you moving your station forward? What does that actually look like? What decisions need to be made today to be ready for what’s next? How are you advancing your station into the digital space? The listener has changed, have you? Let’s look ahead to 2030, then back to the decisions you need to make today to stay relevant.
John Shomby has spent more than four decades shaping successful radio stations across the country, programming nearly every format and helping build brands, launch stations, and develop talent in markets from Dallas to Honolulu.
Now based in Nashville, John focuses on coaching and mentoring the next generation of programmers, on-air talent, and artists through his “Radio 101” program. A trusted industry voice, he also serves as a consultant, columnist, and talent coach for Backstage Country, continuing to invest in the future of radio by helping others find their voice and make their mark.
INSPIRATION
Greater Than the Platform You Stand On
Granger shares how faith shaped his calling, the responsibility of leading a growing platform with integrity, and what it takes to create fresh, authentic, meaningful content in a noisy world.
After 24 years touring as an award-winning, platinum-selling, country music singer-songwriter, Granger Smith chose to leave the music business to pursue ministry. Honoring his late son, River, his first book, Like A River, became a New York Times bestseller. He followed that with the children’s book, Up Toward the Light. Smith serves his local church as one of the pastors, and he continues work on a master’s degree at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
Smith is a highly sought-after speaker, actor, author, and host of the nationally syndicated iHeartRadio show, “After Midnite with Granger Smith” and “The Granger Smith Podcast,” where he discusses matters of faith, family, music, and the outdoors that are grounded in a Christian worldview. Granger and his wife, Amber, live on a little farm in central Texas with their children, London, Lincoln, and Maverick, where they also share their everyday lives on the popular weekly YouTube series called, “The Smiths.”
CONTENT CREATION
Making Unique Content in a Content Ocean
In a world where content is everywhere, how do you create something that actually stands out? Explore what it takes to cut through the noise with content that connects, engages, and keeps listeners coming back. You’ll be challenged to think differently about what you create, how you create it, and why it matters—so your content doesn’t just exist, it makes an impact.
TJ was the kid who walked to school with his headphones plugged into his radio. Having discovered morning talk shows as a 13 year old while growing up in Hillsdale, NJ, he became hooked. In high school, he started working as a volunteer at WFDU-FM. He held many positions at his first official radio job (at Z100-NY) including answering phones, producing, and eventually becoming a co-host on Elvis Duran’s nationally syndicated radio show. TJ began hosting his own morning radio show (The TJ Show) in Boston in early 2013. The TJ Show is now nationally syndicated on over 100 radio stations across America, Canada, and the UK. TJ is married to his wife, Jess. They have 3 girls, a Labrador retriever named Luna, and a German Shepherd named Frankie.
AUDIO / DIGITAL
Great Content, Wrong Century: Upgrading Radio for the Digital Dash
If you want a preview of where radio is headed, look at the auto industry. Software didn’t replace the car, it redefined the driving experience. Between now and 2030, we’ll face new pressure and new opportunities, and the difference won’t be market forces alone. It will be leadership, software, and prayerful action. We must move beyond legacy assumptions and begin creating innovative content designed for non-linear listening. It’s time to bring developers and technologists into our ministry teams and rethink how we build content and deliver impact, so we’re ready to reach people where they actually live: on tomorrow’s digital dashboard.
Scott Herrold is Chief of Content for Hope Media Group, leading the content strategy for WayFM, 89.3 KSBJ, Hope Nation, NGEN, Worship 24/7, and Vida Unida. He has been recognized by Radio Ink as one of “Radio’s Best Directors” and was named by Edison Media Research as a “30 Under 30 Shining Star” twice – well before his hair turned gray.
Scott is also a founder of CreativeCardio.com, a popular showprep resource providing daily idea starters, thoughtful discussion angles, and faith-infused content.
His experience in digital media spans multiple formats, with experience at 96.3 WDVD and 93.1 DRQ (Detroit), 106.9 K-Hits and The Kross (Tulsa), and the SOS Radio Network.
He’s a cum laude graduate of Eastern Michigan University’s business school, a member of the Nevada Broadcasters Hall of Fame, and living proof that if you stay in radio long enough, eventually they give you a plaque and ask you to speak at things.
GEN Z / INSPIRATION
Revival and Radio: Reaching Gen Z in a Moment of Awakening
Revival is stirring on college campuses, and Gen Z is leaning in. How can radio meet this moment? Explore how to engage a generation seeking authenticity, community, and faith, and how radio can play a powerful role in their spiritual journey.
Tonya Prewett is the founder of UniteUS, a growing movement calling college students to lift the name of Jesus and experience salvation, freedom, and lasting faith. What began as mentoring students through deep struggles led to a simple act of prayer on Auburn’s campus, and ultimately a vision of thousands gathering in worship.
That vision became reality in 2023 with Unite Auburn, and has since grown into a nationwide movement, reaching over 150,000 students across multiple campuses, with more than 25,000 making decisions to follow Jesus. Through Unite, Tonya is helping lead a generation toward unity, hope, and a deeper relationship with Christ.
Robert Anthony Cruz—better known as Coach RAC—is a left fielder for the Savannah Bananas, content creator, motivational speaker, and brand ambassador on a mission to change the culture of youth sports. Whether he’s inspiring the next generation through faith-driven coaching or entertaining sold-out crowds with the Bananas’ high-energy mix of baseball and showmanship, Coach RAC is all about building champions on and off the field.
Coach RAC played college baseball at Biola University in Southern California before achieving his childhood dream of joining the Washington Nationals for the 2021 season. After his time in the pros, he built a powerhouse online presence, creating dynamic content for youth baseball and softball players across YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. From hitting, catching, and throwing fundamentals to gear tips, speed drills, and mindset hacks, his content is designed to elevate every aspect of a young athlete’s game—both physically and mentally. Coach RAC has built a dedicated online following of nearly 2.5 million fans, which grows by the day. In 2023 he joined the Savannah Bananas, catapulting his national exposure to new heights. Coach RAC quickly became a fan favorite, known for his high-energy performances, signature backflip catches in the outfield and dance moves that light up the field as much as the scoreboard. Over the past year, the Savannah Bananas have sold out stadiums nationwide—including Angel Stadium in Anaheim (alongside a Disneyland takeover), Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium, and Clemson’s Memorial Stadium— with more than 3 million fans on the ticket waitlist across the U.S.
Coach RAC is also the co-founder of Not Your Average Baseball Camp (NYABC) which was launched in 2023 from Orange County, CA. Designed for athletes ages 6-17, the camp combines high-level skills training with Sandlot-style games, mentorship, and a focus on confidence, joy, and community. NYABC quickly gained momentum upon its inception and now hosts sold out camps across California and Texas. Through it all, Coach RAC is on a mission to reshape youth sports through a faith-based message that inspires confidence, character, and purpose. As his popularity grows, he remains a passionate advocate for athlete well-being—emphasizing joy in the game, mental strength, and a supportive, family-focused environment.
INSPIRATION
The Power of the Edge: Finding Life in the Margins
In a culture that demands maximum efficiency and “harvesting” every second of our schedules, God calls us to a different rhythm: leaving the edges of our fields unharvested. Creating intentional margin in our lives is not just a productivity strategy, but a profound act of trust and a catalyst for restoration and impact. Together, we’ll discover how making room for the “overlooked sheaf” allows us to honor others’ dignity, remember our own redemption, and become available for the divine interruptions God has planned.
Tania Bright is the Co-CEO of Home for Good and Safe Families, a national charity with a bold vision to see children and families flourish. Previously, Tarn (as she is known) was interim CEO at CapitalMass, compiling a ten-year strategy for social action across the Diocese of London. Tarn is a seasoned public speaker, author and executive coach and has 20 years of ministerial experience as well as a background working in FTSE100 companies. Tarn shares her wealth of business knowledge and leadership acumen serving on a variety of Boards (Essential Christian and Restored). Tarn is an adoptive mum to two incredible boys. They live by the river in central London and enjoy mudlarking and supporting their inner-city farm.
INNOVATION / CONTENT
Greater Than the Noise: Radio’s Path Forward
FM radio isn’t dead, but it is at a crossroads. In this candid conversation, K-LOVE’s Mandy Young interviews media strategist Lee Abrams on the real challenges facing radio today, beyond technology to creativity, content, and culture. They’ll explore why radio still has unmatched reach and trust, yet risks irrelevance if it relies on outdated playbooks. This session will challenge leaders to think differently, create meaningful content, and rediscover the magic that makes radio matter.
Twice named one of Radio Ink Magazine’s Top 50 Program Directors in America, Mandy Young has been in radio for 25 years. She started her career in Grand Rapids, Michigan at WJQK as Promotions Director and eventually found her way to the Morning Show. After 10 years in West Michigan, Mandy took the role of Morning Show Co-Host at Air1 and has been with K-LOVE since 2009. Serving in roles with the ministry such as Music Director, APD and Program Director, Mandy is currently the Senior Vice President of Radio for both K-LOVE and Air1. Mandy has been helping stations across the country fundraise for 20 years. She’s currently a top fundraiser on K-LOVE and Air1 and has coached the talent on both networks for over 5 years. She also runs a successful home studio recording audiobooks, voice tracking for 15 stations over the years as well as voicing multiple tv commercials and radio dramas. Mandy is a graduate of Cedarville University. Young and her husband Rod reside in Nashville. They have 2 sons (Jack and Owen) and a daughter (Mamie).
INNOVATION / CONTENT
Greater Than the Noise: Radio’s Path Forward
FM radio isn’t dead, but it is at a crossroads. In this candid conversation, K-LOVE’s Mandy Young interviews media strategist Lee Abrams on the real challenges facing radio today, beyond technology to creativity, content, and culture. They’ll explore why radio still has unmatched reach and trust, yet risks irrelevance if it relies on outdated playbooks. This session will challenge leaders to think differently, create meaningful content, and rediscover the magic that makes radio matter.
Lee Abrams has spent decades reinventing radio, television, and print—blending a deep respect for the past with a passion for reimagining the future. He has consulted for over 1,000 radio stations, major print publications, and leading TV and cable networks, and was the architect behind XM Satellite Radio’s original programming.
As Chief Innovation Officer for Tribune Company, Abrams led the transformation of its television, cable, and newspaper properties—including The Chicago Tribune, The Baltimore Sun, and The Orlando Sentinel—helping drive innovation and return them to profitability during a critical time for print.
A pioneer in modern radio, Abrams co-founded Burkhart/Abrams and helped create influential formats like Album Rock, Classic Rock, and Urban/Dance. Over a 50+ year career, he has shaped the sound and strategy of radio in hundreds of markets and is widely recognized as one of the most influential figures in the industry.
Mark Batterson serves as the Lead Visionary of National Community Church (NCC) in Washington, DC, and the Dream Collective. NCC owns and operates Ebenezers Coffeehouse, the Miracle Theatre, the DC Dream Center, the Capital Turnaround, and Culture House. Mark holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Regent University and is the New York Times bestselling author of 26 books. His newest books include Gradually Then Suddenly, A Million Little Miracles, and The Best Worst Day Ever, a children’s book he wrote with his daughter, Summer. He and his wife, Lora, have three adult children who reside in Washington, DC.
CONTENT STRATEGY
7 Observations That Instill Confidence in the Future of Audio
Audio, and radio in general, has a perception not a consumption challenge. But with the meteoric rise of the creator economy, we are well positioned to draft off that momentum and change perception by leveraging the relationship our talent enjoys with their listeners/followers to drive a variety of meaningful outcomes. Let’s touch on seven observations that will put you on your toes instead of your heels when talking about the future of audio.
Dynamic, results-driven executive with a track record of leading large-scale media, marketing and creator-driven businesses. Known for blending strategic vision with operational excellence to drive growth, innovation and meaningful brand connections. Passionate about the power of audio and storytelling to create emotional resonance and audience engagement.
Greg leads iHeartMedia’s expansive influencer ecosystem, overseeing a portfolio of 2000+ creators across broadcast, podcasting, social and live experiences. Drives strategic partnerships and technology innovation to capitalize on the rapidly evolving creator economy. Connects brands with trusted voices to deliver authentic, high-impact marketing solutions. Collaborates with top-tier talent like Ryan Seacrest, The Breakfast Club, Steve Harvey, Enrique Santos, Delilah, Will Ferrell, Colin Cowherd, Elvis Duran, Stuff You Should Know, The NFL Network, Erin Andrews, Sean Hannity, Malcolm Gladwell and 1000+ local influencers.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Simplifying Underwriting Compliance
Dave Gordon • Senior Director – Media Markets, Northwestern Media
As non-commercial educational (NCE) licensees, we are responsible for complying with FCC underwriting guidelines. By asking a few key questions, you can quickly determine whether a message acknowledging a for-profit underwriter is permissible. Discover a simple framework for evaluating underwriting copy and focusing on the most important compliance question of them all, along with practical guidance for navigating common underwriting scenarios with confidence.
FUNDRAISING
They Listen. But Will They Give?
Rick Dunham • Founder+Chairman, Dunham+Company
Faith influences how listeners perceive money and decide to give. Research shows that those who regularly attend church contribute significantly more to a charity than those who do not. The latest research from Dunham+Company reveals that households attending weekly services give nearly three times more than those who never attend. These faith-engaged donors are not just part of your audience; they are the driving force behind your station. Explore what motivates them, key shifts in donor behavior, and recent tax changes that could impact giving. If you want to activate more of the 95% of listeners who don’t yet give, you must understand the donor behind the devotion.
LEADERSHIP
Lead With Prayer
Ryan Skoog • Cofounder & President, VENTURE.ORG
Discover the prayer habits of extraordinary leaders with biblical insights, astounding research, and practical resources.
MARKETING
Coming soon!
MUSIC & PROGRAMMING
What Have You Actually Changed?
Kenny Jay • President/Consulting Partner, HeyRateThis Research, Albright & O’Malley & Brenner
Last year, we explored evolving trends in research, streaming, partner and playlist strategy, and using every available platform to serve your audience. This year, we’re not starting over. We’re starting with you. What did you try? What worked? What are you still putting off? This is part accountability, part action plan. We’ll examine top-performing stations, the industry roadmap, and why the biggest risk in 2026 isn’t doing something wrong. It’s still doing nothing at all.
ON-AIR
Interviews: the Friendly Interrogation
Wally • Host of the Wally Show on WayFM, WayFM Hope Media
Interviews are basically friendly interrogations. Artists have great stuff locked inside them, and it’s your job to extract that information without making it weird. In this session, we won’t just talk about effective interview techniques, we’ll actually do one live with a Christian artist. And yes, we’ll pause along the way to break down what’s happening and why (like instant replay, but for conversations). Walk away with practical, usable techniques to help you prep better, ask better questions, and get better answers in your next interview.
SOCIAL & DIGITAL MEDIA
You’re On the Air… But Are You in the Search? Helping Christian Radio Win in AI Search
Olivia Yetman • Founder & CEO, LivSocial
Discover practical tips and habits to help you create a show that showcases your personality and connects deeply with your audience. Learn how to stay authentic, engage listeners, and deliver content that resonates, all while growing your show’s success.
SPANISH
Building a Spanish CCM Station: How to Minister to Hispanics on the Radio
Troy Kriechbaum • President/CEO, Encouragement Media Group
Brenda Aguila • VP of Spanish Ministries, Fuzion
Beth Bacall • Moderator
What does it take to launch or strengthen a Spanish CCM station? This practical session breaks down the 8 essential elements every station needs, from vision and team alignment to music strategy, content approach, and community engagement. Walk away with a clear framework and actionable steps you can apply immediately.
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Your Business Partners Are Donors Too
Kim Willey • Director of Business Development, The Bridge of Hope
Move beyond transactional “advertising” and build meaningful partnerships rooted in shared mission. Discover how to engage business partners as true advocates—people who believe in what you do and want to see it grow. Learn how to leverage your team’s unique strengths to create lasting impact and develop relationships that benefit everyone for the long term.
FUNDRAISING
Fundraising Is a Relationship. What Happens If We Treated It That Way?
Courtney Krus • Managing Partner, Amplify Fundraising
Faith influences how listeners perceive money and decide to give. Research shows that those who regularly attend church contribute significantly more to a charity than those who do not. The latest research from Dunham+Company reveals that households attending weekly services give nearly three times more than those who never attend. These faith-engaged donors are not just part of your audience; they are the driving force behind your station. Explore what motivates them, key shifts in donor behavior, and recent tax changes that could impact giving. If you want to activate more of the 95% of listeners who don’t yet give, you must understand the donor behind the devotion.
LEADERSHIP
CEO Diaries
Nathan Brown • CEO, Christian Media & Arts Australia
Luke Weston • CEO, Rhema Media
Leadership isn’t as polished as it looks. Through honest, behind-the-scenes stories, this session offers a candid look at leading through pressure, navigating missteps, and making tough decisions in real time. Explore what it takes to challenge outdated models, lead meaningful change, and stay grounded in Christ while carrying the weight of leadership. Walk away with practical insight, renewed perspective, and encouragement for the road ahead.
MARKETING
Campaigns That Convert: How to Build Promotions That Move People, Maximize Ministry, and Expand Reach
Jerry Woods • Director of Marketing and Morning Show Host, WGTS 91.9
Not all promotions are created equal. Some are fun but fizzle quickly, while others build momentum for weeks or longer. Let’s dig into the anatomy of effective campaigns from hooking your audience, to building loyalty, and inspiring sponsors to want to be a part of what you’re doing. Learn how to reverse-engineer promotions that drive real results, including listening occasions, app downloads, new donors, and event RSVPs. Through case studies and practical frameworks, you’ll walk away ready to pitch, plan and execute your next campaign with confidence.
MUSIC & PROGRAMMING
Multimediaverse
Carlos Aguiar • Morning Show Host, KLOVE
Great multiple platform content doesn’t happen by accident. It starts with intentional planning. Learn how programmers can equip and guide their teams to create breaks that extend beyond radio and help talent grow into content creators.
ON-AIR
Connecting with Video
TJ Taormina • Host, The TJ Show
Today’s on-air talent is more than a voice; they’re a content creator. Explore how to integrate video into your routine while keeping your show the priority, and how developing your own video skills can help you grow your influence and connect beyond the airwaves.
SOCIAL & DIGITAL MEDIA
Getting Talent On Board: Bridging Radio and Social
Megan Sweitzer • Social Media Coordinator, WCSG
Social media is more than a promotional tool. It is where your audience is already connecting. The challenge is getting everyone at your station aligned, especially when working with talent more comfortable with traditional radio. How do you bring air talent into your digital strategy in a way that feels natural and effective? Learn how to engage talent, create collaboration between programming and digital teams, and build a rhythm around what is working and what is not. Walk away with practical ideas to strengthen your connection and create content that truly resonates.
SPANISH
The Model That Is Working
Brenda Aguila • VP of Spanish Ministries, Fuzion
Eunice Hoge • Programming Coordinator, La Z 102.5
Jim Hoge • Founder, President & CEO, Z88.3 and La Z 102.5
Tony Luna • Program Director, Vida Unida Network
Ivette Zavarce • Morning Show Host & Director of Marketing, Fuzión
Beth Bacall • Moderator
Spanish language Christian radio is one of the fastest growing opportunities in our space, but what is actually working right now? Hear directly from leaders on the front lines. Representing Fuzión, Hope Media, and La Z 102.5, let’s explore what’s connecting with audiences, where stations are seeing growth, and the real-world strategies making an impact.
