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CSN International
CSN International
CSN International
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CSN Radio is a Christian radio network based at flagship station 89.9 KAWZ in Twin Falls, Idaho. The network feeds over 350 FM translators and 59 full-power radio stations.[2] CSN can be heard across the United States, including Alaska and the Hawaiian Islands.[3] It uses the slogan "Where God's Word is Heard."

Key Information

CSN Radio airs a variety of Christian talk and teaching programs with some Christian contemporary music.[4] CSN is a non-profit organization. Its stations are non-commercial and depend on listener donations for support.

History

[edit]

KAWZ began broadcasting on April 3, 1988 (Easter Sunday), with Pastor Mike Kestler as its founder.[5][6][7] The network was launched on April 26, 1995, broadcasting Christian radio over satellite from KAWZ in Twin Falls.[1] The first satellite-fed translator to begin receiving the network from KAWZ was in Yucca Valley, California, and within six months the network had dozens of translators.[1][5] It was originally known as the Calvary Satellite Network.[5]

By 1999, the network had grown to include 153 stations and translators,[8] and by 2004 it had grown to approximately 400 stations and translators across the United States.[9]

In 2007, an agreement was reached between the Twin Falls, Idaho based network and parties associated with Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa where the Twin Falls, Idaho based network kept 424 of the network's 457 stations and translators, but could no longer use Calvary Chapel branding.[10][11] Most of the stations received by the parties associated with Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa were sold to the Calvary Radio Network the following year.[12]

Programming

[edit]

National religious programs heard on CSN include: A New Beginning with Greg Laurie, Jay Sekulow Live, Family Talk with James Dobson, Love Worth Finding with Adrian Rogers, Thru the Bible with Dr. J. Vernon McGee, The Urban Alternative with Tony Evans, Truth For Life with Alistair Begg, Washington Watch with Tony Perkins and Turning Point with David Jeremiah.[13]

Board members

[edit]

Board members of the CSN International, Inc. (CSN Radio), are Pastor Mike Kestler and Ariel Kestler. Mike Kestler is pastor of The River Christian Fellowship, a nondenominational church in Twin Falls.[14]

Stations

[edit]

CSN Radio is heard on over 400 radio stations in the United States.[3]

Call sign Frequency City of license State Facility ID Class Power
(W) 		ERP
(W) 		Height
(m (ft))
KNGW 88.9 FM Juneau Alaska 176566 A — 125 −128 m (−420 ft)
KOGJ 88.1 FM Kenai Alaska 174802 A — 1,100 104 m (341 ft)
KVIR 91.9 FM Dolan Springs Arizona 90917 C0 — 25,000 711 m (2,333 ft)
KVJC 91.9 FM Globe Arizona 91804 C2 — 660 1,035 m (3,396 ft)
KBMH 90.3 FM Holbrook Arizona 90452 A — 250 43 metres (141 ft)
KGSF 88.7 FM Huntsville Arkansas 92987 C3 — 5,000 181.5 m (595 ft)
KJCU 89.9 FM Fort Bragg California 87930 A — 130 106 m (348 ft)
KXAO 88.7 FM Joshua Tree California 768181 A — 1,350 111 m (364 ft)
KYML 88.1 FM San Diego Country Estates California 767224 A — 60 705 m (2,313 ft)
KFRS 89.9 FM Soledad California 86669 A — 250 93 m (305 ft)
KSOA 90.5 FM South Dos Palos California 767193 A — 265 323 m (1,060 ft)
WUJC 91.1 FM St. Marks Florida 122209 C1 — 74,000 138.7 m (455 ft)
KIPA 1060 AM Hilo Hawaii 33324 D 1,000 (daytime only) — —
KLNY 88.9 FM Lanai City Hawaii 766309 C2 — 1,800 456 m (1,496 ft)
KHJC 88.9 FM Lihue Hawaii 81138 A — 2,000 109.9 m (361 ft)
KAWS 89.1 FM Marsing Idaho 8417 C1 — 8,750 668 m (2,192 ft)
KMHI 1240 AM Mountain Home Idaho 72657 C 1,000 — —
KAWZ[a] 89.9 FM Twin Falls Idaho 8414 C0 — 100,000 302 m (991 ft)
WXPD 91.7 FM Wheatfield Indiana 766380 A — 1,700 103 metres (338 ft)
KSNB 91.5 FM Norton Kansas 122373 A — 250 52 metres (171 ft)
KOKN 88.7 FM Oketo Kansas 177208 A — 300 74 m (243 ft)
KIMW 105.5 FM Heflin Louisiana 191575 A — 6,000 83.3 m (273 ft)
WGWS 88.1 FM St. Mary's City Maryland 172973 A — 1,100 53 m (174 ft)
WSMA 90.5 FM Scituate Massachusetts 122202 B1 — 7,700 150 m (490 ft)
WDAA 101.5 FM Bruce Mississippi 762447 A — 250 29 m (95 ft)
WWUN-FM 101.5 FM Friars Point Mississippi 16523 C3 — 14,000 120.4 m (395 ft)
KLWL 88.1 FM Chillicothe Missouri 176981 A — 800 103 m (338 ft)
KTBJ 89.3 FM Festus Missouri 76989 B — 25,000 113 m (371 ft)
KJFT 90.3 FM Arlee Montana 93587 C3 — 400 581 m (1,906 ft)
KGFJ 88.1 FM Belt Montana 172645 C2 — 730 597.3 m (1,960 ft)
KJCB 88.9 FM Lockwood Montana 93512 A — 1,900 137.7 m (452 ft)
KNEF 90.1 FM Franklin Nebraska 177070 A — 100 −18 m (−59 ft)
KNMA 88.1 FM Tularosa New Mexico 122932 C2 — 3,340 487.2 m (1,598 ft)
WLGU 90.7 FM Lancaster New York 83428 A — 1,000 56 m (184 ft)
WSFW 1110 AM Seneca Falls New York 5391 D 1,000 day only — —
WIFF 90.1 FM Windsor New York 2868 A — 100 209 m (686 ft)
WWYC 1560 AM Toledo Ohio 22672 D 1,000 day
920 critical hours
3 night		 — —
KJCC 89.5 FM Carnegie Oklahoma 122517 C2 — 23,500 118.8 m (390 ft)
KDJC 88.1 FM Baker Oregon 121839 C2 — 775 551.8 m (1,810 ft)
KJCH 90.9 FM Coos Bay Oregon 90263 C2 — 3,500 445.8 m (1,463 ft)
KQDL 89.1 FM Hines Oregon 174458 A — 300 266.6 m (875 ft)
KGNR 91.9 FM John Day Oregon 37433 A — 1,500 −33 m (−108 ft)
KPIJ 88.5 FM Junction City Oregon 92491 C2 — 650 711 m (2,333 ft)
KKJA 89.9 FM Redmond Oregon 92285 C2 — 1,500 672.9 m (2,208 ft)
KWRC 90.9 FM Hermosa South Dakota 90500 C3 — 400 386.8 m (1,269 ft)
WAUO 90.7 FM Hohenwald Tennessee 82543 A — 500 71 metres (233 ft)
KCKT 88.5 FM Crockett Texas 93122 A — 250 49 metres (161 ft)
KGDL 92.1 FM Trent Texas 171016 C3 — 19,000 114 m (374 ft)
KLFK 98.7 FM Wells Texas 762285 A — 2,800 113 m (371 ft)
KBJF 90.5 FM Nephi Utah 174640 C — 75,000 657.4 m (2,157 ft)
WCBX 900 AM Bassett Virginia 18887 D 1,000 day
180 night		 — —
WKQY 100.1 FM Tazewell Virginia 64665 A — 4,200 119 m (390 ft)
KJCF 89.3 FM Asotin Washington 106475 A — 175 −100 m (−330 ft)
KHOD 90.1 FM Hoodsport Washington 767430 A — 100 −43 m (−141 ft)
KTJC 91.1 FM Kelso Washington 92487 C2 — 8,000 189 m (620 ft)
KXML 90.3 FM Moses Lake Washington 767423 A — 3,500 38 m (125 ft)
KWYC 90.3 FM Cheyenne Wyoming 87267 C2 — 20,500 129.7 m (426 ft)
KLWD 91.9 FM Gillette Wyoming 84184 A — 1,000 97 m (318 ft)
KWCF 89.3 FM Sheridan Wyoming 90842 C3 — 850 292.2 m (959 ft)

Notes:

  1. ^ Flagship station

Translators

[edit]

CSN International is relayed by many additional translators nationwide.

Further information: CSN International translators

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

CSN International

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CSN International, commonly known as CSN Radio, is a non-profit ministry based in , dedicated to broadcasting uncompromised teaching, worship music, and Christian testimonies 24 hours a day. The network operates from its flagship station KAWZ at 89.9 FM and syndicates programming to over 400 affiliate stations and translators across the , with content aimed at strengthening listeners' faith and evangelizing the unsaved through solid doctrinal instruction and reports from global missions. Listener-supported and independent from other organizations, CSN International emphasizes a vision originating from a single individual's God-given calling to serve and proclaim , resulting in a network that prioritizes biblical accuracy over contemporary compromises in programming. Its defining characteristics include live call-in shows addressing Bible questions, partnerships with resources like the for scriptural study, and a commitment to reaching both domestic audiences and international listeners via accessible platforms such as mobile apps and online streaming.

History

Founding and Initial Development

CSN International traces its origins to Pastor Mike Kestler, who founded and launched KAWZ-FM, a Christian radio station in Twin Falls, Idaho, on April 3, 1988. Operating under Calvary Chapel Twin Falls, the station initially provided local Bible teaching and Christian programming, laying the groundwork for broader broadcasting efforts. The network itself, originally known as the Calvary Satellite Network, was established in 1995 as a satellite-distributed service originating from KAWZ as the uplink facility. This launch on enabled the syndication of content to affiliate stations and translators nationwide, marking CSN's transition from a local outlet to a national ministry. The venture was a collaboration involving Kestler and Jeff Smith, son of Calvary Chapel founder Chuck Smith, with significant funding from Calvary Chapel resources. Early development focused on expanding feeds and securing affiliations, with the first receiving the network signal shortly after inception. By the mid-1990s, CSN had begun building a portfolio of stations, emphasizing verse-by-verse exposition and evangelical content to reach underserved Christian audiences across the .

Affiliation and Growth with Calvary Chapel

CSN International originated as the Calvary Satellite Network, founded in the mid-1990s by Pastor Mike Kestler, who served as president and co-founder, under the auspices of Calvary Chapel Twin Falls, Idaho. This initiative aligned closely with the Calvary Chapel movement's emphasis on verse-by-verse exposition and evangelical outreach, leveraging the network's growing fellowship of churches for content and distribution. In 1996, the Calvary Satellite Network formally established its radio operations through a partnership between Chapel Twin Falls and , the latter led by Chuck Smith, enabling the syndication of teachings from prominent Calvary Chapel pastors. This collaboration facilitated rapid expansion, as the network capitalized on the Calvary Chapel association's proliferation across the , incorporating local church broadcasts and translators to extend reach into underserved areas. By the late 1990s, the network had grown to encompass 153 stations and translators, reflecting the symbiotic relationship with Chapel churches that provided both programming—such as and worship music—and infrastructural support through affiliated stations. Further development included 47 full-power stations, over 150 translators, and 20 shortwave outlets by the early 2000s, amplifying the movement's doctrinal focus on and personal evangelism to a national audience. This period of affiliation underscored CSN's role in disseminating Chapel's , charismatic-leaning amid the broader growth of the association to over 1,000 fellowships worldwide.

Separation from Calvary Chapel and Rebranding

In the mid-2000s, CSN International, originally operating as the Calvary Satellite Network in collaboration with figures from including Jeff Smith (son of founder Chuck Smith), encountered operational disputes with its Twin Falls, Idaho-based leadership under Pastor Mike Kestler of Calvary Chapel Twin Falls. A federal lawsuit filed in 2005 by parties associated with Costa Mesa against CSN International, Calvary Chapel of Twin Falls, and Kestler alleged breaches related to network control and affiliations, culminating in a 2007 settlement agreement that severed ties between the Twin Falls entity and Costa Mesa influences. This separation enabled CSN International to and operate independently from its studios in Twin Falls, focusing on a nationwide footprint of over 350 signals while retaining its core mission of biblical . As part of the divestiture, CSN sold most stations linked to Costa Mesa-affiliated parties to the Radio Network for $1.8 million in 2008, allowing the network to consolidate under non-denominational Christian programming rather than direct oversight. The emphasized CSN's identity as a listener-supported entity dedicated to "Where God's Word is Heard," distancing it from the joint venture's -branded origins while maintaining loose ties to broader teachings through select programming.

Expansion into Nationwide Network

Following the separation from Calvary Chapel of Twin Falls and subsequent to CSN International, the network prioritized building a distributed footprint across the through syndication to affiliate full-power stations and low-power FM translators. This model leveraged the existing uplink facility at flagship station KAWZ (89.9 FM) in , to deliver 24-hour programming economically to remote and underserved markets without requiring local origination. Expansion accelerated in the years after the 2005 legal disputes involving control and operations between CSN International, Calvary Chapel of Twin Falls, and key personnel such as Mike Kestler, who continued leadership of the independent entity. The network acquired or affiliated with dozens of non-commercial educational stations, particularly permitted under FCC rules for religious broadcasters to extend coverage in rural areas. By the mid-2010s, CSN had established rebroadcast agreements in multiple states, including transfers like the 2016 assignment of assets from Calvary Chapel affiliates to CSN entities. As of August 2025, CSN International operates 407 signals nationwide, comprising 58 full-power stations and 349 translators spanning 44 states and reaching approximately 32% of the U.S. population. This growth positioned it as the largest Christian teaching and network in the country, sustained by listener donations and focused on exposition without commercial interruptions. The infrastructure emphasizes redundancy and wide coverage, including and , via satellite feeds that enable seamless national distribution.

Mission and Theological Foundation

Core Objectives and Doctrinal Stance

CSN International's core objectives center on disseminating verse-by-verse teaching to both believers and non-believers through , functioning as a non-profit ministry supported by listener donations to propagate sound biblical nationwide and internationally. The network aims to equip with reliable theological instruction via a curated selection of ministries, emphasizing and worship music to foster spiritual growth and without affiliation to external denominations or corporations post its . Doctrinally, CSN adheres to a conservative evangelical framework outlined in its formal statement of faith, affirming the triune nature of as one Being eternally existing in three co-equal Persons—the Father, Son, and —who collaboratively act in creation, providence, and redemption. Scripture, comprising the 66 books of the Old and New Testaments, is held to be fully inspired by the , constituting the infallible and authoritative rule for faith and practice. Christ is confessed as fully and fully man, conceived by the , born of the Virgin Mary, who lived sinlessly, died vicariously as for sin, bodily resurrected, ascended to , and will return personally to judge the living and dead while establishing His millennial kingdom. Humanity is viewed as created in God's image but fallen into through , rendering all guilty before and incapable of self-redemption; is thus by grace alone through alone in Christ's finished work, resulting in regeneration, justification, and for believers. The church comprises all elect individuals baptized into one body by the at the moment of , commissioned to proclaim , disciple converts, and observe ordinances like and the Lord's Supper, with anticipation of the pre-tribulational prior to Christ's . This stance prioritizes and soteriological exclusivity, aligning with verse-by-verse expository methods historically associated with Calvary Chapel influences, though CSN operates autonomously.

Role in Christian Broadcasting Landscape

CSN International, operating as CSN Radio, serves as a prominent provider of uncompromised Bible teaching and talk programming within the Christian radio sector, emphasizing verse-by-verse expositions from nationally recognized pastors and teachers. This focus distinguishes it from contemporary Christian music (CCM)-heavy networks, positioning CSN as a key outlet for doctrinal instruction and faith-strengthening content delivered 24/7 via satellite and terrestrial signals. Its programming includes biblical analysis, worship music, interviews with Christian figures, and mission updates, aligning with a mission to broadcast God's Word nationally and internationally to nourish believers and reach the unsaved. With 396 stations and signals spanning 43 states, CSN achieves coverage of nearly 32% of the U.S. , establishing it as the self-described largest Christian and network in the country. This extensive footprint, originating from satellite broadcasting initiated in 1995, enables efficient distribution of and anointed praise content to diverse audiences, including those in rural areas where radio remains a primary medium for spiritual edification. As a listener-supported, non-profit ministry independent of larger denominational structures, CSN contributes to the ecosystem of evangelical media by prioritizing non-commercial, Bible-centric formats over entertainment-driven alternatives. In the broader Christian broadcasting landscape, which encompasses television ministries, proliferation, and music-focused stations, CSN's role underscores the enduring demand for systematic scriptural teaching amid fragmented . By curating content that adheres to core evangelical doctrines—such as the Bible's divine authority and by grace—CSN supports the "feeding of God's sheep" through accessible radio, fostering theological depth in an era of concise digital formats. Its global outreach ambitions further extend this influence beyond domestic borders, amplifying voices in missions and to counter secular narratives.

Programming and Content

Primary Program Types

CSN International's radio programming emphasizes uncompromised Bible teaching as its foundational element, delivering verse-by-verse expositions, doctrinal studies, and scriptural applications through syndicated shows from evangelical ministries. These programs, often featuring teachers aligned with Calvary Chapel's emphasis on systematic Bible exposition, occupy significant portions of the daily schedule, such as "Thru the Bible" by , which provides chapter-by-chapter commentary on Scripture. Other examples include "Learn the Bible in a Year" from Bibles for the World, focusing on comprehensive scriptural overview. Complementing the teaching content are blocks of worshipful Christian music, comprising contemporary praise, hymns, and conservative selections played during non-programmed slots to fill the 24-hour format. Daily song playlogs track these segments separately from structured teaching, indicating music serves as content rather than a dominant feature, with logs available for verification of aired tracks. The network also airs Christian talk and interview programs addressing , family dynamics, , and global missions, including discussions with Christian leaders and reports on activities. Notable examples encompass "Family Talk" hosted by , which tackles cultural and relational issues from a biblical viewpoint, and apologetics-oriented shows like those under TEMA links for and . This mix aims to strengthen listeners' faith through teaching while incorporating relational dialogue and musical worship.

Key Hosts and Contributors

Pastor Mike Kestler, senior pastor of The River Christian Fellowship in , serves as the primary host of CSN Radio's flagship live call-in program To Every Man an Answer (), which airs weekdays and fields listener questions on biblical and faith-related topics. Kestler, a board member of CSN International since its early development, also features live broadcasts from his congregation and contributes to the network's emphasis on uncompromised teaching. Frequent co-hosts on include Pastor Derald Skinner of Calvary Chapel , , who appears regularly on weekday mornings and Saturdays, providing scriptural insights drawn from his pastoral experience. Other recurring guests and co-hosts encompass Pastor Jeff Wickwire of Turning Point Church and Pastor John Randall of Calvary South OC, enhancing the program's dialogic format with diverse evangelical perspectives. Additional key contributors to CSN's programming lineup include , host of A Word for the Church, delivering targeted biblical exhortations, and Pastor Jon Courson, whose Searchlight teachings focus on verse-by-verse exposition. The network syndicates teachings from vetted evangelical ministries, prioritizing pastors aligned with CSN's doctrinal commitments to literal biblical interpretation, though specific airing rotations vary by station and schedule.

Governance and Operations

Board of Directors

The of CSN International, Inc., the nonprofit entity operating CSN Radio, consists of three members with equal voting authority of 33.3% each: Michael Kestler (President), Ariel Kestler ( and ), and Crystal Pamplona (). This composition was established following corporate actions on December 6, 2022, replacing prior director Jon Geever with Ariel Kestler, as documented in FCC filings approved in April 2023. Michael Kestler, as President and principal officer, oversees strategic direction and operations from the network's headquarters in ; he also serves as pastor of The River Christian Fellowship and has held leadership roles in CSN since the organization's founding era. Ariel Kestler manages financial oversight in her Treasurer role, while Crystal Pamplona handles administrative and accounting functions as and supports engineering-related staff coordination. The board's structure reflects a closely held model typical of small religious nonprofits, with reported 2023 compensation of $140,000 for Kestler, $61,800 for Pamplona, and $39,017 for Ariel Kestler.

Financial Model and Funding Sources

CSN International operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, with its financial sustainability dependent on voluntary contributions from listeners and ministry supporters. These tax-deductible donations fund the network's operations, including programming, station maintenance, and expansion efforts across its 407 stations and translators. The organization explicitly positions itself as donor-supported, emphasizing independence from commercial advertising or external affiliations to preserve its focus on biblical teaching. In its most recent publicly available filing for 2023, CSN International reported total revenues of $7,145,952, predominantly from contributions rather than program service fees or . This model aligns with standard practices for non-commercial ministries, where listener pledges and one-time gifts cover costs without reliance on subsidies or corporate sponsorships. Historical context from its separation from Calvary Chapel associations underscores a commitment to self-funding through private support, avoiding entanglements that could doctrinal . No audited or detailed breakdowns beyond IRS filings are publicly disseminated by the network, reflecting its operational transparency primarily through required non-profit disclosures. Funding appeals on its website and apps highlight ongoing needs for expansion, such as new station acquisitions, with donors enabling coverage reaching approximately 110 million potential listeners as of August 2025.

Network Infrastructure

Full-Power Stations

CSN International operates 58 full-power FM radio stations as of August 2025, which serve as the primary terrestrial transmission points for its satellite-delivered Christian programming across 44 states. These stations are licensed for levels typically exceeding those of low-power translators, enabling broader signal coverage over urban, suburban, and rural areas to reach an estimated combined audience potential of 110 million people when augmented by . Unlike translators, which rebroadcast signals at limited wattage under FCC rules (up to 250 watts), full-power stations hold Class A, B, C, or equivalent licenses, supporting contours that extend dozens to hundreds of miles depending on terrain and antenna . Programming is uplinked via from CSN's facilities to these stations, which then disseminate syndicated content including teaching, , and ministry broadcasts without local origination in most cases. This infrastructure allows CSN to maintain a unified national footprint while complying with FCC non-commercial educational (NCE) licensing requirements for many outlets. Strategic acquisitions and affiliations have expanded this core network since the , prioritizing underserved markets to align with the ministry's evangelistic goals. Examples of full-power stations include:
  • Alaska: KNGW 88.9 FM (Juneau), providing coverage to southeastern coastal regions; KOGJ 88.1 FM (Kenai), serving the .
  • Arizona: Stations in Dolan Springs (91.9 FM) and /Phoenix area (91.9 FM), extending into northern and central parts of the state.
  • California: Outlets such as those in Fort Bragg (89.9 FM), targeting coastal and inland communities.
These stations underwent recent updates, including frequency shifts like Huntsville, Alabama's move to 89.7 FM, to optimize coverage and avoid interference. CSN's ownership or operational control under CSN International, Inc. ensures content fidelity, though individual licenses are held per FCC records.

Translators and Signal Extension Methods

CSN International employs FM translators as a primary method for extending its radio signal beyond the coverage areas of its full-power stations. These low-power relay facilities receive the network's programming via uplink from station KAWZ (89.9 FM) in , and rebroadcast it on local FM frequencies to fill geographic gaps and enhance accessibility in urban and rural markets alike. This approach leverages distribution for efficient, wide-area delivery without relying on terrestrial microwave links or fiber connections for each site. As of August 2025, CSN operates 349 FM translators alongside 58 full-power stations, forming a total of 407 signals across 44 states and reaching an estimated 110 million people. The translators, often automated and low-cost to maintain, enable the network to maintain a national footprint while adhering to FCC regulations for noncommercial religious broadcasters, which permit broader placement flexibility than for commercial entities. This extensive translator deployment has positioned CSN as one of the largest owners of such facilities in the U.S., supporting two parallel networks: one focused on religious teaching from KAWZ and another on praise and worship content. Satellite feeds constitute the core signal extension mechanism, with programming uplinked centrally and downlinked to for local retransmission, minimizing latency and operational complexity. Examples include translators like W273AJ (102.5 FM) in , and W209CU (89.7 FM) in , which extend CSN's reach into secondary markets. This model contrasts with traditional syndication by emphasizing owned-and-operated low-power outlets, allowing CSN to control content consistency and respond to signal interference or challenges through targeted translator additions.

Internal Leadership Disputes

In the mid-2000s, the Calvary Satellite Network (CSN), predecessor to CSN International, faced intense internal leadership conflicts centered on control of the organization between Mike Kestler, its primary founder and operator, and board members linked to the Calvary Chapel movement, including Jeff Smith, son of Calvary Chapel founder Chuck Smith. Disputes escalated in 2006 when a CSN director sued Kestler, alleging fiscal mismanagement, unauthorized expenditures, and other governance failures, amid broader accusations of impropriety in network operations valued at millions of dollars. Compounding the board-level tensions, former employee Mary Pollitt filed a federal lawsuit in 2005 against Kestler and CSN, claiming after being recruited from to , only to face alleged advances and subsequent termination; Kestler countersued, denying the claims and portraying them as part of a coordinated effort by opponents to oust him. Kestler, in turn, initiated legal action in 2007 against Jeff Smith and associates in Orange County Superior Court and federal court in Boise, seeking sole control of the network and accusing Smith of funding the harassment suit and other challenges to undermine his leadership, including attempts to remove "Calvary" branding ties. The conflicts culminated in a 2007 settlement agreement that resolved all claims, granting Kestler control of the radio assets while severing formal affiliations with Calvary Chapel; the network rebranded as CSN International, with Kestler retaining presidency, and separate entities emerged for related ministries. U.S. District Judge Lynn Winmill dismissed interconnected suits in November 2007, noting the resolution avoided further litigation over governance and asset division. These disputes highlighted tensions between Kestler's operational autonomy and oversight from Calvary Chapel leadership, rooted in differing visions for the non-profit's expansion and accountability.

Lawsuits and Resolutions

In 2005, former employee Lori Ann Pollitt and her husband James George Pollitt filed a civil (Case No. 1:05-cv-00524-MHW) in the U.S. District Court for the District of against CSN International (then operating as Calvary Satellite Network), Calvary Chapel of Twin Falls, Inc., and network president Michael R. Kestler, alleging , wrongful termination, under Title VII and the Human Rights Act, , , invasion of , , battery, , and . Pollitt, a former cheerleader hired as a radio host, claimed Kestler fired her after she rejected his advances, including inappropriate physical contact and comments during her tenure from 2003 to 2004. Kestler and CSN moved for partial summary judgment in 2006, arguing insufficient evidence for many claims and that Pollitt failed to exhaust administrative remedies. On January 29, 2007, U.S. District Judge Mikel H. Williams granted the motions in part, dismissing claims of trespass, conversion, assault, battery, and tortious stalking due to lack of genuine factual disputes, but denied summary judgment on the invasion of privacy claim, finding potential liability for public disclosure of private facts. The court also struck portions of affidavits deemed speculative or hearsay. The case settled out of court later in 2007, with terms undisclosed; it was dismissed with prejudice. Parallel internal disputes arose between Kestler and Calvary Chapel founder Chuck Smith over network control and finances, exacerbating the Pollitt litigation. Kestler accused and associates, including board members Jeffrey and Charles Smith, of financial mismanagement, such as diverting funds for non-network purposes, and claimed covertly funded Pollitt's suit to oust him. In March 2006, Kestler filed a and third-party alleging breach of duty and misuse. U.S. District Judge Lynn Winmill dismissed Kestler's suit against on November 3, 2006, citing insufficient evidence of vendetta or misconduct. The disputes culminated in a 2007 settlement agreement that rebranded the network as CSN International, removing "" affiliations to resolve and governance conflicts, while Kestler retained operational control. No further major lawsuits have been publicly resolved, though subsequent allegations of financial irregularities, such as undocumented loans exceeding $200,000 for purchases, surfaced in 2019 without formal litigation.

Reach, Impact, and Reception

Listener Metrics and Geographic Coverage

CSN Radio maintains a network of 407 stations as of August 2025, including 58 full-power facilities and 349 , distributed across 44 states. This enables signal coverage reaching approximately 110 million people, representing a substantial portion of the U.S. population. The network's reach is achieved primarily through terrestrial , supplemented by distribution initiated in 1995 for program syndication to affiliates. Geographically, CSN's stations provide nationwide coverage, extending to and alongside the continental U.S., with signals present in 26 of the top 100 radio markets. Coverage is denser in western states, where roughly three-quarters of stations are located east of the being less represented, though the network claims potential access for over 104 million individuals as of earlier 2024 assessments. Key states by station concentration include , , Washington, , , , , Georgia, , and . Listener metrics emphasize potential audience size over verified tuning data, with no independent ratings (e.g., from Nielsen) publicly reported for the network. The cumulative population exposure equates to nearly 32% of the U.S. total, positioning CSN as a major player in outreach, though actual listenership depends on factors like market competition and demographic alignment with evangelical audiences. International extension occurs via online streaming and select global affiliates, but primary metrics remain U.S.-centric.

Achievements in Ministry Outreach

CSN Radio's ministry outreach emphasizes uncompromised Biblical teaching and messages to equip believers for and reach non-believers directly. By serving as an "on-air " through a lineup of vetted programs, the network has enabled listeners to strengthen their faith and engage in personal outreach, with partner ministries reporting enhanced discipleship efforts. Specific impacts include testimonies from affiliated ministries documenting salvations and increased evangelistic activity among audiences exposed to CSN broadcasts. For instance, Chapel Pearl Harbor cited the network's programming as instrumental in extending outreach to non-believers and fostering disciple-making within their . Over 30 ministry partners have maintained long-term collaborations exceeding five years, attributing sustained growth in listener engagement and spiritual decisions to the platform's consistent airtime. Programs such as To Every Man an Answer, a live call-in show, have supported outreach by addressing listener inquiries on and , providing resources like salvation messages to facilitate personal . These efforts align with CSN's foundational goal of proclaiming to the unsaved, as evidenced by mission reports and interviews featured across its signals.

Criticisms and External Perspectives

External observers, particularly within evangelical circles, have criticized CSN International for failures that allegedly contradict its mission of biblical . Founder and president Mike Kestler has been accused of , including pursuing relationships with congregants and staff affiliates, leading to lawsuits that exposed internal divisions and financial disputes. A 2005 federal lawsuit by former employee Lisa Pollitt claimed Kestler, in his roles at CSN and affiliated Calvary Chapel, initiated unwanted advances and used network resources inappropriately, resulting in emotional distress claims against the organization. These scandals contributed to a schism with Calvary Chapel co-founder Chuck Smith, prompted by allegations of asset mismanagement and moral lapses, which forced a from Calvary Satellite Network to CSN International after asset divisions. Independent evangelical commentators argue such events erode the network's authority on moral teachings, portraying it as prioritizing institutional survival over . Kestler's return to on-air roles post-scandals has drawn further rebuke for lacking , with critics citing patterns of and cover-ups as disqualifying for a ministry leader. Programming has also faced external pushback, notably the call-in show To Every Man an Answer, hosted by Kestler affiliates, for offering advice perceived as dismissive of domestic abuse victims. Advocacy blogs specializing in church abuse reform contend episodes feature caller interrogations that echo perpetrator narratives, potentially discouraging reporting and reinforcing patriarchal biases over scriptural compassion. While CSN emphasizes doctrinal purity in its lineup of teaching and worship, detractors from reform-minded Christian outlets view this as selective, overlooking how host backgrounds taint counsel on relational ethics.

References

  1. https://csnradio.com/about-us/
  2. https://csnradio.com/
  3. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.csnaac.radioplayer&hl=en_US
  4. https://tunein.com/radio/CSN-International-911-s19797/
  5. https://tunein.com/radio/CSN-International-1031-s4205/
  6. https://csnradio.com/programs/
  7. https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2007-feb-28-me-calvary28-story.html
  8. https://www.phoenixpreacher.com/mike-kestler-back-on-csn/
  9. https://culteducation.com/group/857-calvary-chapel/3411-day-of-reckonings.html
  10. https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCOURTS-idd-1_05-cv-00524/pdf/USCOURTS-idd-1_05-cv-00524-2.pdf
  11. https://lloydwalkerlaw.com/General_Litigation.html
  12. https://www.insideradio.com/free/who-s-radio-s-biggest-translator-owner-it-s-not-who-you-think/article_bb30d118-63ba-11ec-8101-b3d903aab252.html
  13. http://www.insideradio.com/features/deal_digest/deal-digest---may-19-2016/article_725b9a36-1d75-11e6-9e4c-cb4d0cbb83cf.html
  14. https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DA-23-325A1.pdf
  15. https://csnradio.com/media-kit/
  16. https://www.guidestar.org/profile/33-0256544
  17. https://csnradio.com/what-we-believe/
  18. https://www.facebook.com/csnradio/mentions/
  19. https://www.linkedin.com/company/csn-radio
  20. https://csnradio.com/program/thru-the-bible/
  21. https://csnradio.com/playlogs/
  22. https://csnradio.com/tema/links/
  23. https://csnradio.com/tema/
  24. https://www.facebook.com/ToEveryManAnAnswer/
  25. https://csnradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/CSN-Program-Schedule.pdf
  26. https://csnradio.com/tema/about/
  27. https://www.instagram.com/p/CfY95R6svT2/
  28. https://www.facebook.com/ToEveryManAnAnswer/videos/episode-1369-pastor-mike-kestler-and-pastor-john-randall-on-to-every-man-an-answ/848297254538694/
  29. https://tunein.com/radio/CSN-International-985-s212453/
  30. https://enterpriseefiling.fcc.gov/dataentry/api/download/attachment/25076f91884ab8ea01884f0257d9240e
  31. https://www.instrumentl.com/990-report/christian-broadcasting-of-idaho-inc
  32. https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-392538A1.pdf
  33. https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/820330263
  34. https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/820330263
  35. https://csnradio.com/contact/
  36. https://csnradio.com/donate/
  37. https://resources.csnradio.com/pages/contact-us
  38. https://csnradio.com/stations/
  39. https://csnradio.com/public-files/
  40. https://www.guidestar.org/profile/82-0330263
  41. https://www.diymedia.net/calvary-satellite-network-lawsuit-schism/
  42. https://www.casemine.com/judgement/us/5914b476add7b0493476ca02/amp
  43. https://culteducation.com/group/857-calvary-chapel/1052-kestler-sues-smith-in-latest-dispute-over-control-of-radio-network.html
  44. https://www.diymedia.net/tag/mike-kestler/
  45. https://magicvalley.com/news/local/article_2762577b-80dc-5a79-a17f-66248b153a2e.html
  46. http://articles.latimes.com/2007/feb/28/local/me-calvary28
  47. http://talkingradio.blogspot.com/2007/02/sex-and-money-lead-to-break-up-of.html
  48. http://diymedia.net/old/stuff/csnsettlement0807.pdf
  49. https://www.phoenixpreacher.com/christian-satellite-network-chaos/
  50. https://www.facebook.com/csnradio/
  51. https://resources.csnradio.com/collections/tema-packet/salvation-message
  52. https://cryingoutforjustice.blog/2015/11/20/to-every-man-an-answer-but-if-its-an-abused-woman-lets-lance-her/
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