Bob Lawrence

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Bob Lawrence writes weekly columns on radio leadership and business. He most recently served as market manager for MacDonald Broadcasting in Saginaw, Michigan. Throughout his career, Bob has held virtually every position in the business over his 40+ year career, from being on-air in Philadelphia, San Diego, and San Francisco to programming legendary stations including KHTR St. Louis, KITS Hot Hits and KIOI (K101) San Francisco to serving as the head of all programming for Saga Communications and working for the Radio Advertising Bureau. Before landing his current role, Bob helped lead Seven Mountains Media's cluster in Parkersburg, WV/Marietta, OH. He can be reached by email at BGLawrence@me.com.

Bob also honed his research skills over ten years as Senior VP of Operations at Broadcast Architecture, eventually launching his own research company and serving as President/CEO of Pinnacle Media Worldwide for 15 years.  Bob spent five years as VP of Programming for Saga Communications before joining New South Radio in Jackson, Mississippi as GM/Market Manager. Prior to joining Seven Mountains Media, Bob served as General Manager for the Radio Advertising Bureau, overseeing its “National Radio Talent System”.

Nielsen’s 3 Minute Qualifier Will Be A Game Changer

Nielsen recently changed from a 5-minute radio qualifier to a 3-minute qualifier. What a difference this should make in the industry.

Are You Stuck In Your Own Version Of Groundhog Day

The one item we’re able to control is adapting to change with humility and positivity with an emphasis on the latter.

The Hidden Dangers of ‘Free’ as a Marketing Message

I can tell you right up front that as Market Manager, we NEVER give away free commercials. There is value to everything we offer to listeners and clients alike.

Does Your Team Consider You A Good Manager?

I thought my first time as a manager would be a breeze, but I quickly found out it’s more than just managing tasks, deadlines, content, and meetings.

Is Music Really Your Brand?

I believe the real music revolution began in 2001 when Steve Jobs introduced the first iPod as something neither radio nor any Walkman could accomplish.

Breaking

Attention Spans Are 40 Seconds. What Does That Mean for Radio?

"Listener Eye Contact is the most important skill an air personality — regardless of format — can develop."

Why Mike Golic Returning Is a Home Run Hire for ESPN Radio

"If ESPN Radio wanted to make the strongest statement possible about its commitment to the platform, there may not have been a better option available at this moment than bringing Mike Golic home. Sometimes the smartest move isn't chasing what's next. It's recognizing the value of what already worked."

Has the C-Suite Generation of Hard Work and Ethics Lost Its Way

"I'm saddened that it's often the largest media companies — those that rely on creative content and entertainment — that repeatedly eliminate the very people who helped build those organizations into the giants they have become."

How Matt Barrie Is Prepared To Tackle the Challenge of Hosting SEC Nation

"If you're a college football junkie like I am, there are few jobs with ESPN that scratch that itch. SEC Nation is one of them."