Frost Advisory #825 – A Programming Lesson From Father’s Day

What can we learn from Father’s Day?

While Father’s Day may not be as dominant a topic on your radio station as Global Belly Button Day, which falls later this week (“I’m not making this up,” as Dave Barry would say), when we share stories of those whose actions and attitudes we aspire to be, we communicate a core value of our brand.

“People like us do things like this.”

Seth Godin

It’s said that 85% of youths in prison grow up in fatherless homes. Role models can change the trajectory of a life.

Things to consider:

“Sense of Identity: For daughters, a healthy relationship with a father heavily influences self-esteem, confidence, and how they perceive future relationships. For sons, dads act as primary behavioral models, helping develop socialization skills and shaping their concept of adulthood.”

Association of Child Psychotherapists

“Emotional Resilience: Children with caring, present dads typically exhibit fewer behavioral problems and possess stronger emotional regulation.”

Forgiven Ministry

In our format we have the opportunity to tell a better story. Many of my stations that have created on-air features just so they can say, “You must be a great mom!” or “Atta boy, dad!” or “You’re awesome” affirming listeners for one of the most important roles in their lives. Why is this important for your station’s brand?

Amy Grant has said, “Every once in a while it’s good to think about what is really important in your life, and then see what aspect of your life actually reflects that. If there were no limitations, this is how I would like to be… You have to take time to speak yourself in a direction; it’s almost like reminding yourself of who you are.”

Who do your listeners aspire to be? Share those values.

If you need a place to start? Okay. Simply have each of your air talent say “Thank you, Dad!” and then share why.