In A World Of A.I., Be Human

With A.I. gaining so much momentum right now maybe it’s time that radio doubled down on being human. Different radio formats, PDs, and on-air talent have varying opinions of how imperfect you can be on the air.

Someone who I coach wondered if clearing her throat sounded bad enough to redo the voice track. I listened and texted her back that it sounded appropriate and natural from my POV.

Perfection isn’t the goal; Authenticity is.

HOW REAL IS TOO REAL?

Every individual show must determine how real is too real. More on that below. I will say this. Voice tracking to perfection sanitizes “real life” right out of the break.

The shows that I coach are encouraged to approach an on-air break like they’re having coffee in person with one listener. So, if you unexpectedly burp, hiccup, or cough you say excuse me and move on.

HERE’S THE TAKEAWAY

There’s a subjective, invisible line that crosses into too real and potentially detrimental. But many factors determine that: your radio station’s DNA, your personality, your PD, the listener’s expectations of the brand you’ve built, etc.

Authenticity’s value is as high as silver, gold…or a dozen eggs nowadays. So, if you haven’t already, hopefully, you and your PD can determine how real is too real for you.

After spending 25+ years working at some really great radio stations, Todd launched a coaching and consulting business, Beyond615.com, on March 15, 2021. There he strives to help others build confidence so that they can connect on a deeper level. He also serves as the Contemporary Christian Format Editor at AllAccess.com. He and his family live in the (615) area code, aka the heart of the CCM industry.