10 Questions with ... Dan Young

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

I've been in radio for eight years, roughly three of which have been in Christian radio. I've bounced between Talk, Classic Rock, Alternative, Country and Christian AC.

1. What was your first job in the industry?

While attending Broadcast Center in St. Louis, I scored an internship with the Emmis Communications cluster there and that eventually turned into a job. I loved the experience of working with a variety of formats under one roof. It was the best possible opportunity for a young pup just out of school.

2. What does Christian radio need to do to break through to a mass audience on a more consistent basis?

We need to focus on the commonalities: the "big picture" stuff that brings an entire community together. Are you just trying to reach other Christians or would you like to see the lives of non-Christians changed as well? What sort of voice can you use to reach them? Be inclusive, not exclusive. Wouldn't it be great if your listeners came to appreciate you for who you are as an organization and not just what music you play?

3. What do you guys have coming up this summer? Promotions, festivals?

At KNWI, we are honored to have MercyMe and Newsboys headlining the Iowa State Fair's opening night so that will definitely be a huge event.

4. If you were just starting in radio today, and you knew what you know now, would you continue forward?

If you think you only work in radio, you may not for very long. But if you think you work in media, you will always have a career. I'm not trying to be another voice of doom and gloom for the broadcasting industry. Quite the opposite, in fact. If you define "radio" as something closer to "producing unique and compelling content that focuses on the needs and interests of your listeners and their community, and brings people closer together," then this is one of the most in-demand industries in the world. We are the human element of an increasingly technology-soaked, media-obsessed world. That will always be irreplaceable; it will only become more and more relevant.

5. What is your favorite part of your job?

When I talk to a listener and they share a "God moment," where they heard a song or something that was said on the air and they tell you how it had a huge impact on them. A week doesn't go by that I don't have somebody in tears telling me what a difference KNWI or WSMR has had for them. I know that it's not what I'm doing that connects with them in such a deep way, it's what God is doing, and the fact that he lets me be a part of it is humbling and exciting beyond comparison.

6. And your least favorite part?

Occasionally the hours can get long (I know, surprising, right?).

7. If you could have any other job outside radio, what would it be?

I'd love to make a living actually producing music. But of course I'd have to have a backup and I'd probably focus on handling marketing and community engagement for non-profits.

8. Any favorite or funny artist run-ins? Highlights from a promotion or interview? Any interesting tales from station visits?

I remember interviewing Big Daddy Weave a couple of years ago and one of the guys was a brand new dad. As he talked about the lessons God was teaching him with his newfound fatherhood, he began choking up and eventually tears were streaming down his cheeks as he described all the love that was in his heart. I thought, "Wow, these guys are the real deal."

9. Who inspires you personally, spiritually and/or professionally?

Personally, my wife, Debra. She is the most loving and wonderfully talented person I've ever known. Spiritually, Pastor Bob Coy from Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale for his ability to speak the truth in love (and throw in a lot of humor!). Professionally, Dave St. John and Dave Ryerson, two programmers from Northwestern College and Radio. Dave St. John recently accepted a promotion to Station Manager here at KNWI. Those guys have taught me virtually everything I know about programming, and what I know is a drop in the bucket compared to their wisdom.

10. What music currently has your ear? Any new artists that you can't get enough of?

In Christian AC, I'd say Tenth Avenue North and Sidewalk Prophets are really putting out some amazing stuff right now. Outside of Christian music, I spend a lot of time with Ben Folds or Regina Spektor. I'm a big fan of house music and techno but that list could go on and on. Oh, and Ryerson has me hooked on Radiohead's newest album.

1. Do you read everything or nothing? Do you have any favorite magazines, books, or newspapers?

C.S. Lewis is without a doubt my favorite author.

2. Cat or dog person?

Dogs all the way. We have a puggle named "Monkey" and he's one of a kind.

3. Describe your favorite meal.

Anything that has chocolate coming up for dessert

4. If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you want to have with you and why?

Actually, I'm fairly certain that all I'd need is my iPhone. Stranded on a desert island? There's gotta be an app for that.