The Power of Voice in Rural America | Reaching Audiences Through Radio, with Tom Brand

Tom Brand has led a successful career in farm broadcasting, and communicating with and advocating for farmers and producers in the agricultural industry. Currently serving as Executive Director for the National Association of Farm Broadcasting, Tom uses his communication skills to provide value to member stations through a variety of efforts and has earned the reputation of a trusted friend to agriculture. Growing up on a diversified family farm, Tom's rural American roots run deep. He received his bachelor's degree from the University of Missouri - Columbia, majoring in general agriculture with an emphasis in communications. He began his farm broadcasting career early, starting with Learfield and the Brownfield Network before moving closer to home, where he worked for KMA in Shenandoah, Iowa and KFEQ in St. Joseph, Missouri. He later transitioned into his current position where he and his team continue to serve the agricultural community and provide value for its member stations and networks. In his free time, Tom can be found with his wife, kids and grandson enjoying the rural American lifestyle. Hear more from Tom and Cliff on the power of voice, connecting with audiences through personalized content and establishing authority by providing accurate information to reach consumers. They also discuss how rural American communities are evolving and share some great life lessons along the way. Listen to this episode of OUTdrive now! What you'll learn: Why personalized content is vital for connecting with audiences Establishing authority by providing timely and accurate information More on the power of voice in rural America and why radio is more relevant than ever today Tips on using radio advertising to reach your audience Ways rural American communities are changing and how technology is playing a major role How Tom works to create value for NAFB member stations through research, continued education, an in-house news service and promotion at industry events The pride of ownership that rural Americans exhibit in their daily lives A behind the scenes look at farm broadcasting and what it means to rural Americans Life-guiding principles that Tom lives by every day