10 Questions with ... Rob Dempsey

1. You've had a wild ride through life in general; could you share a Reader's Digest version of your past and how radio became-and, 32 years later, continues to be-a part of it?

I was raised by a single mom. Kicked out of the house at 16 years-old, so I had no address for a number of years. My youth pastor introduced me to WCIE 91.1 out of Sarasota, and I'd listen on an old walkman I'd found left in a dumpster. This led me to a relationship with Jesus. I now serve as PD of HisRadio Network in the Carolinas, which is part of Radio Training Network (RTN), whose president started the station that helped lead me to Christ. He still believes in me and is an amazing mentor and friend.

2. As you reflect on your life in radio, what have been some of the most pivotal moments within it that brought you to where you are now, both professionally and personally?

First, being hired to a full-time job, with only a little previous experience as a station volunteer. My first day at Joy 88 (now TheJOYFM) was Easter Sunday 1988. I was born on Easter Sunday. Cool confirmation if you ask me.

Second, when TheJOYFM GM Jeff MacFarlane took a huge leap and promoted me to Program Director at TheJOYFM.

Third, the move to HIS Radio in the Carolinas. Allen Henderson has been an amazing mentor and leads by example. Together, we've taken chances as we grow into this new world of ever changing technology.

3. Who have been the people most impactful to you throughout the course of your career? The people who've played the biggest role in your ministry and career success?

Jim Campbell, Jeff MacFarlane and Allen Henderson, for reasons already mentioned. Bill Scott, who is a constant voice of encouragement, strength and tells me I'm worth it. Frank Reed, who champions this format and calls me friend. He's trying to get me to write a book. John Frost and Tommy Kramer, who've helped me become a real person on the air. Daniel Anstandig and Jon Erdahl, who are a driving force in me growing and continuing to achieve new heights in radio and beyond.

4. You've done radio for a long time, but what might you be doing if you'd chosen a different career path?

A professional cyclist. I love the sport. After retiring from cycling, I'd go into personal training.

5. What makes radio worth getting up for at this point in time?

A few things. The passionate team I serve every day. Their drive is contagious. Driving into emerging technology. We need to be where they are and are going. Finally, the hope of helping someone like me find a relationship with Christ.

6. Is there anything about you (habits, quirks) that only your morning show co-hosts would know...until now?

I go to the restroom...a lot!

7. What are some of the on-air moments that will forever stick in your memory?

• Danny Gokey's snowball fight
• Steven Curtis Chapman's Pumpkin Spice Latte Song
• Kendrick Brothers' genuine gratitude that our morning team care enough to prepared for their visit. They are AMAZING!!!
• Broadcasting LIVE from the Billy Graham funeral
• Kirk Cameron's Chick-Fil-A Drive thru window bit.
• Broadcasting from the Bible Museum with Kirk Cameron
• Bringing a family who's husband/dad is dying of brain cancer backstage to Casting Crowns and Mark Hall praying for them.
• Being a novice morning show host at the Museum of Television in the broadcasting in same room with radio legends like Jon Rivers, Frank Reed, and Joe Paulo.
• Live at the Billy Graham Crusade in Tampa during the late 90's
• Interviewing Amy Grant at TheJOYFM
• Brown Bannister with his daughter Ellie Holcomb
• Backstage with MC Hammer New Year's Eve, 1999
• Live with Tony Dungee at One Bus Place in late 90's

There is so much more I could add. I've really been living a dream. It's amazing how God uses the unqualified to do something like this everyday!

8. If Dempsey Fest was an actual concert event (and it should be), who would be performing?

Past and Present all of the following acts in their prime days. By the way, I'm a CCM fan!

Tobymac, Petra, Danny Gokey, all Hillsong acts, WhiteHeart, Mandisa, 4Him, Jaci Velasquez, Mylon & Broken Heart, Amy, Smitty, Allied, Tenth Ave North, Degarmo and Key, Newsboys, DC Talk, SCC, Wayne Watson, Third Day, Big Daddy Weave, Rebecca St. James, for King & Country, BeBe and CeCe Winans, LeCrae, Matthew West, Brandon Heath, and We Are Messengers

Seriously, this question is not easy for me. This lineup would never stop. So many artists have impacted my life!

9. In your opinion, what are the most important songs to hit Christian radio throughout your programming career?

You'll see how long I've been doing this by the titles in this list:

• I Can Only Imagine
• Above All
• Place In This World
• Jesus Freak
• Lead Me On
• Shout To The Lord
• Dare You To Move
• Flood
• Awesome God
• El Shaddai
• Redeemed
• Oceans
• Who You Say I Am
• Reckless Love
• Where There Is Faith
• Big House
• God is in Control
• You Say
• Butterfly Kisses

10. When you're away from the station and work stuff, how are you spending your time these days? Anything coming up on a personal/family level that you're looking particularly looking forward to?

• Leading youth group and student worship on Sundays. Yep, a 51 year-old!
• My high school senior heading to Anderson University.
• My daughter just graduated from North Greenville University.
• My eldest-and a war hero-Wes, is getting married in October.
• Century ride later this month.
• Training outside a lot on the bike and run.
• Saving up money for a new bike. This will take a while.