The Journey Radio Network Launches
Since 1983, the Victory Radio Network, has been serving Lynchburg and the surrounding area. But in 2014, the station took on a new identity and name change, as it is now called the Journey Radio Network.
Barry Armstrong, general manager and morning host, has helped propel Journey into a new phase.
“Radio has had to change,” Armstrong said. “Podcast, the internet, radio and Netflix have changed the way people use radio and listen to audio.”
The soft launch of the Journey took place Dec. 26, 2014, as the Victory Radio Network transitioned into the Journey Radio Network. The Journey is a new brand, new image and ultimately a new format of radio.
According to Armstrong, the Journey can be classified as adult contemporary. Armstrong explained that this format follows the lead of many other stations and consists of having more contemporary Christian music and less programming.
“This format reflects the current image of (Liberty),” Armstrong said.
While the Journey focuses on encouraging its listeners through Christian music, Armstrong explained that it still has a few programs during the evening hours. The station’s most popular program is a show hosted by Brant Hansen. The Journey owns this program for all of Virginia, and it runs weeknights from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Armstrong explained that the Journey is very different than it used to be, saying it has a much younger feel that relates to more people.
“(The Journey) has come a long way from old inspirational praise to a brand that can connect with students,” Armstrong said.
However, the Journey is not meant just for Liberty students. According to Armstrong, the Journey is reaching people throughout Virginia and North Carolina. The first rating period is scheduled to take place during March, April and May, and after this first rating period, exact numbers will be given on how many people the Journey is reaching.
“Considering (the Journey) is new, feedback has been positive,” Armstrong said. “We went from zero to 1,700 likes on Facebook and are quickly approaching 1,800.”
According to Armstrong, the Journey is reaching more people and a younger demographic than before. The Journey is not specifically intended to reach Liberty students, but the station still desires to have a relationship with students.
The Journey offers many ways for Liberty students to get involved. It offers Christian/ Community Service hours, internships and work study positions. While the Journey does not have any student run radio shows, students are involved in aiding the staff of the Journey.
Through community involvement and publicity, the Journey is making itself known. The Journey made an appearance at Winter Jam March 12, 2015, in Roanoke, Virginia. They will also be in Convocation April 1, 2015, to support Rush of Fools and advertise with T-shirts.
Armstrong said he wants the Journey to be an extension of church culture. He wants the conversation to be welcoming so that people who are not familiar with Christianity will feel comfortable.
“The name says it all,” Armstrong said. “We know the destination, but we are on a journey. You don’t have to be special and don’t have to be righteous. We are fellow travelers no matter where you are on the journey.”
FROST is a news reporter.