SonicTrek Media is moving into Contemporary Christian radio. The company has tapped veteran programmer and consultant Rob Wagman to lead Manna, its new localized CCM format.
What We Know: Manna is SonicTrek’s seventh format. It pairs the company’s localization technology with real personalities, local content, and market-specific music. Sparkle, a longtime personality at Top 40 WSSX and Country WIWF in Charleston, anchors the format. She also spent time at Christian outlet WLFJ (His Radio).
Meanwhile, Wagman brings a mix of mainstream and Christian radio experience. He worked in Alternative, Top 40, Urban, and Classic Rock in markets including Tampa, Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York. In 2013, he joined KFSH in Los Angeles. From there, he became Network Program Director for WAY-FM, helping the network grow ratings and fundraising. Additionally, Wagman built localized music charts and research for Christian, Country, and Pop programmers.
What They Said: “What excites me about Manna is that we’re using today’s technology to create something deeply human and authentic. Our personalities are real people of faith. The stories and testimonies are genuine.” –Rob Wagman
“Rob understands both sides of this equation – great radio and the mission behind Christian radio.“ –Joel Denver
What Remains Unclear: SonicTrek did not name any launch affiliates for Manna. The company also did not disclose pricing or a debut date.
What It Means: Christian radio has long leaned on national networks and syndicated programming. Manna pitches owners a local-sounding alternative without the cost of a full programming and talent operation. As a result, stations with underperforming signals now have another AI-assisted option to weigh. The launch also continues a steady stream of SonicTrek moves over the past year.
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