Why Radio Still Matters
To celebrate World Radio Day on February 13, we invited Christian radio professionals and partners to reflect on a simple question: “Why does radio still matter?” Their responses point to radio’s enduring role as a trusted companion by building real community, offering comfort and spiritual encouragement, cutting through cultural noise, and creating moments of local and global impact that change lives in ways no playlist or platform can replicate.
Lindsay Crane – Media Marketing, Awakening Events
In a world where requests are often at the touch of a button, radio is still building community where streaming platforms can fall short. I’ve worked enough radio promotion booths where listeners stop by asking for their favorite DJ, because what happens between the music is what keeps listeners tuning in. People are craving connection, and radio forms relationships beyond the song playlist.
Dave Gordon – Senior Director – Media Markets, Northwestern Media
Radio still matters because in this fragmented world, radio remains one of our generation’s last real companions. It’s quick to comfort and encourage us with the perfect blend of songs, stories, and emotions – from trusted, relatable voices. When a radio station is operated and programmed by mission-driven broadcasters, it cares for the people of its community like nothing else can.
Matt Hahn – US Director of Radio/Media Marketing, Compassion International
Christian Radio has the greatest impact of allowing listeners to be local and global from their favorite station…just a couple of examples we’ve had recently through Compassion Radio Campaigns:
“I have been listening to Star 99.1 and was moved with Compassion when I heard about the desperate situations children are experiencing. I’m a mom and grandmother, and I can’t imagine how severe the suffering these children are experiencing daily. I’m honored to be a servant and is willing to care for this sponsored Child.”
“God has been so gracious and blessed me. I want to do the same. 41 years ago, I lost my sister in a car accident. Her name was Susan, and I wanted to sponsor a child in her honor. My sponsored child’s name is Susana. Thank you, Christian Radio.”
Paul Jacobs – President, Jacobs Media
When we talk to the CMB audience, we continually hear how, at a moment of need – a family challenge, health, or basic day-to-day life – Christian music radio comes up with the right song, the right Bible verse, or the right tone that immediately uplifts them and helps them deal with their issue. What other medium or platform can do that? Only radio…it still matters!
Kenny Jay – President, Albright & O’Malley & Brenner
In a world of news fatigue and mistrust in social media and AI, radio remains an authentic connection and an escape that makes listeners feel good.
Sarah Taylor – On-Air Talent & Music Director, Spirit 105.3
Recently, a young woman named Victoria supported SPIRIT 105.3 during a fundraiser. It was her first time giving, because she’d just found the station. She said she’d wanted to “get closer to God” and was tired of all the “noise” she heard on other stations, so she hit the seek button on her dial. She said the music made such a difference in her relationship with God that she wanted to become a partner in ministry for others who were seeking. I think about her every time I start my shift.
