My mother-in-law started a radio station... the story of Radio CCFM with Avril Thomas

What happens when faith, vision, and timing collide at a pivotal moment in South Africa’s history? In this episode of Born to Build, I sit down with my mother-in-law, Avril Thomas — co-founder of Cape Town’s iconic Christian community radio station, CCFM. From the station's humble beginnings post-Apartheid to becoming a voice of hope across the city, Avril shares the story of CCFM’s birth, the battles they faced, and the surprising ways God used a local church to build something lasting. Tune in for stories of divine timing, community impact and leadership in ministry.(00:00) Welcome & Introduction — meet Avril Thomas, my Mother-in-Law(00:59) The Birth of CCFM — A Vision Sparked in a New South Africa(02:35) A local church starts a radio station(06:20) The first month of broadcasting(09:20) How do you learn how to run a radio station?(14:15) Moved into the radio station for a month(19:05) Station manager and mom(22:00) The miraculous story of buying the building(30:07) What's your approach to leadership?(33:50) CCFM's impact on Cape Town(37:20) Road shows(38:25) Surprising ways listeners engaged(42:10) Succession planning and handing over the visionAbout Born to Build:Born to Build is a podcast featuring conversations with the builders, founders, and pioneers driving change from the ground up. Each episode highlights the real stories of SME owners - how they started, what they’ve overcome, and what keeps them building their business. It’s honest, practical business insight from those shaping their industries one bold move at a time.