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Annie F. Downs
Author & Podcast Host

< MOMENTUM WORSHIP SPEAKER > 

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.

Lauree Austin
Midday Talent, K-LOVE

< MOMENTUM HOST >

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.

EJ Gaines
Senior VP of Marketing at Capitol CMG & Co-Executive Director of Motown Gospel

< INSPIRATIONAL >

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.

Steve Goldstein
Founder & CEO, Amplifi Media

< PODCASTING, TECHNOLOGY >

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.

Derwin Gray
Co-Founder & Lead-Elder Pastor, Transformation Church

< INSPIRATIONAL >

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.

Peter Greer
President & CEO, HOPE International

< LEADERSHIP, INSPIRATIONAL >

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.

Daniel Harkavy
CEO & Executive Coach, Building Leaders

< LEADERSHIP, INSPIRATIONAL >

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.

Lisa Harper
Bible Teacher, Author & Speaker

< GROWTH, INSPIRATIONAL >

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.

Todd Henry
Author & Speaker

< LEADERSHIP, CREATIVE >

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 Hopson
Afternoons, BOOST RADIO  /  Middays, NGEN  /  Evenings , Pulse 101.7

< MOMENTUM HOST >

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.

Wade Kingsley
Founder, The Creative Coach

< LEADERSHIP, CREATIVE >

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.

Carey Nieuwhof
Best-Selling Author

< LEADERSHIP, INSPIRATIONAL >

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.

Angela Perelli
President, Angela Perelli Coaching

< RADIO >

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.

Tim Sinclair
Public Address Announcer, Chicago Bulls & Chicago Bears

< RADIO, INSPIRATIONAL >

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.

Dan Sumpter
Chief Creative Officer, Dunham+Company

< BRANDING, STRATEGY >

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.

Matty Staudt
Founder, Jam Street Media

< RADIO >

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.

Matthew West
Artist / Songwriter / CEO of Story House Collective

< BRANDING, STRATEGY >

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.

    

Thursday Breakouts

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.

Friday Breakouts

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.

Scott Herrold
Chief of Programming, Hope Media Group

< BRANDING, STRATEGY >

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.

Michelle Younkman
Executive Director, CMB

< BRANDING, STRATEGY >

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.

Leadership Workshop

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

Music & Programming Workshop

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

On-Air Workshop

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

Promotions Workshop

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

Revenue Workshop

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 & Digital Workshop

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

Jason Vanderground
President, BrandHaven

< CULTURE, INFLUENCE >

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.