“Everyone’s favorite radio station is the station that plays their favorite music.”

I cleverly put this sentence in quotes because it is the first thing I say when talking to a station. After more than two decades in our format I can honestly say that NO ONE understands this fully at the beginning of the journey. However, all understand it later. If they are successful.

Why does this matter?

Last week I had the unique opportunity to share success principles of our format with some media executives whose background is exclusively mainstream radio. It was a “Dear younger me” moment as I reflected on my now-27 years in our format.

If I only knew then what I know now.

The launch of Artemis II was a really big deal in Florida where I live. After all, it was the first crewed flight beyond low Earth orbit since the Apollo program before most of us were even in high school.

They estimate that almost half a million folks watched in person from the Space Coast. The launch could be seen in backyards and roadways all the way from Jacksonville to West Palm Beach and throughout Central Florida.

Everyone was talking about it. (The photo is of a rocket launch seen from my front yard).

Rarely do you hear guys brag about their urologist. Based upon the bumpy road I’ve had the last several years in that medical department I’m eager to brag on mine. (I’m fine now. Thanks for asking).

My recent annual exam went swimmingly wrapping up with “the glove.” In the man-to-man chit chat that ensued I awkwardly asked, “How can you do this procedure every day of your life?”

Rumor has it that there are more “religious” radio stations than any other format category. Rumor also whispers that those religious stations have fewer listeners than any other. I don’t like those rumors.

But having been involved in the CCM format for more than 25 years I suggest that there is something we might learn from Easter.