It’s simple, really.*

In a short burst of clarity and creativity, I’ve come up with The World’s Simplest Checklist for a really swell radio station. (Believe me they only come to me in short bursts).

Grab your #2 pencil and count up your points!

The Quiz:

• When people tune to my station for the very first time they hear something that sounds familiar and makes them feel at home. (True-25 points: False-zero)
• When people tune to my station for the very first time they hear something relevant and meaningful to their lives. (True-25 points: False-zero).
• When people tune to my station for the very first time they hear something that offers perspective on where life and faith intersect. (True-25 points: False-zero).
• When people tune to my station for the very first time they hear something that stirs their soul. (True-25 points: False-zero).

Now total up your points.

0 points: Your station is in good company. The vast majority of Christian music radio stations in America are here. Most, for some reason, are content to be here. Maybe it’s easier. Great radio is hard work they tell me.

25-50 points: You’re ahead of most. Unfortunately, you’re still underperforming most of the stations in your market and probably struggling to meet your operational or financial goals.

50-75 points: You’re in the elite. People in your town indicate that they’ve actually heard of you. Some say they love what your station stands for. You win awards and people say nice things about you.

100 points: You’re a market leader. Period. Funny thing about our little format. When a station is ABOUT what people care ABOUT the most, they inevitably become a leader in their market.

*No, it’s not simple. I lied. I was desperate and needed a real snazzy headline. There are 828 previous Frost Advisories that can help you understand how difficult it is to have a really swell radio station.

But maybe this checklist is a good place to start.