New format gives Connecticut Christian radio show the ability to reach a global audience
When Edge Media Studios first started working with Christian Questions in 2009, the hosts had been broadcasting their two-hour radio show for more than 10 years. It was a format that seemed to be effective.
During the show, which first launched in 1998, listeners were able to call in with questions and comments on various Biblical topics. Hosts Rick and Jonathan faithfully responded to listeners from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. EST every Sunday from the Freedom 95 talk radio network in New London, Conn. They weren’t afraid to welcome discussion on both popular and controversial topics.
Our team at Edge Media Studios saw the potential for Christian Questions to take that format to a global audience. But first, we wanted to convince them to analyze their current format for opportunities to make it even more impactful.
Following several telephone conversations with the hosts, we invited them to Indianapolis for a face-to-face meeting that would lay the groundwork for our next steps. Once we gained their trust, we started managing the talk radio show.
Embracing change, growth
As with any other business, handing over aspects of your company or program can be challenging. However, Rick and Jonathan invited us to thoroughly review their audio imaging and how they organized the show. On a weekly basis, we evaluated the show and suggested production changes — which led to a steady increase in new caller volume.
During the first 90 days, we also introduced new music bed transitions, multi-media incorporation and changes to the show structure to make it flow more smoothly.
The next step was managing the show’s first expansion outside of their market of New London. Using a multiple market plan, Christian Questions added three new affiliates by the end of 2009.
However, the major shakeup came when we suggested that Rick and Jonathan completely change their format — going from a two-hour weekly show to a daily 30-minute platform during weekdays. The new format would be called Christian Questions Daily. It was a challenging prospect to consider; the pair were already finding it difficult to fit all of their content into a two-hour format.
Yet, we convinced them of the importance of adapting in order to grow in today’s media landscaping. Having different forms of commentary would be key to further expanding its national audience. In 2013, the daily show launched with a compact format that moved at a faster pace than its two-hour live version — a format that was well received by its listeners.