SHOULD RADIO JUST TRUST THE SCIENCE?

Think of the last time you went to the dentist. Picture the white, sterile walls, the smell of hand sanitizer, and the certain precision that comes with cleaning or fixing your teeth. As the chair slowly lays back there you are with your cute little chest apron on. Let’s dive into this week’s Beyond The 615 Column, article # 16.

WHEN YOUR RADIO STATION FEELS LIKE THE DENTIST OFFICE

• Sterile.
• Painful at times.
• Precise.
• Trusts the data; trusts the science.

THE MOMENT WHEN DATA HAS STERILIZED YOUR RADIO STATION

Here are some signs that may indicate a sterilized data culture:

• Most decisions come from the top of the organization.
• It’s easier to find leftover food in the fridge than creativity around the office.
• The value of on-air talent is defined by jock liners and endorsements.
• Consumption and testing drive every music decision.

SO, TRUST THE SCIENCE, HUH?

I’m not sure where you stand on this, but I wholeheartedly believe in designing a culture where creativity is championed while failing every now and then actually reinforces better decision-making in the future.

Here’s more from Adam Grant: “In a stable world, it's best to be data driven. In a changing world, it's better to be data informed. Data can reveal patterns from the past. It takes judgement to predict how those patterns will evolve in the future. Data shouldn't guide decisions; it should inform decisions.”

Not much is stable about the world we live in, and radio is constantly changing. Honestly, I’d rather trust the balance between art and science in order to make the very best radio station. But, that’s just me.

#radioshow #radiopersonality #radiohost #radio #radiodj #onair #radiocoaching #culture

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Todd Stach launched Beyond 615, a coaching and consulting business in 2021, where he strives to help others build confidence and discover their full potential. At the time of this article, he serves 26 shows at 12 radio stations. Todd has also written 145+ free articles to encourage on-air personalities and program directors. He and his family live in the (615) area code, aka the heart of the CCM industry.