10 Questions with ... Brian Sumner

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

WCIR/Beckley, WV, WAEY (STAR 95)/Princeton, WV, WPAR/Blacksburg, VA, Spirit FM/Lynchburg, VA, WCQR/Johnson City, TN

1. What was your first job in the industry?

I ran the Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 on record!

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

Keep working hard and put out a quality product that first and foremost honors God. We are the only format that can offer true hope!

3. How are you guys winding up the summer? Any upcoming special promotions or festivals?

We are wrapping up the WCQR "88 Days of Summer" with a "duck race." The winner gets a trip on this fall's Music Boat. We are also conducting the Tri-Cities largest food drive for Second Harvest Food Bank.

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

Yes, I feel God has gifted me for radio. Plus I still love it!

5. What is your favorite part of your job?

Connecting with friends on the air.

6. And your least favorite part?

Waking up at 3:30 a.m.

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

Some type of sports/ministry job like FCA, MRO

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

This summer the highlight was over 3,100 listeners at our Faith and Family Night with the Johnson City Cardinals. We had Pocket Full of Rocks in for a pre-game concert and they are the real deal! By the way, Cardinal Park only seats 2,500!

9. If you could have any artist (past or present) join you on the morning show, who would you have and why?

Rich Mullins: his music has impacted me more than anyone else!

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

Jason Gray, Chris August and Lara Landon

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

I am constantly reading books. Recently I've been reading John Wooden books.

2. Cat or dog person?

Neither

3. Describe your favorite meal.

Anything my wife makes and I mean that!

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

Bible, my wife and a "Do Not Disturb" sign