At 44 years of age Daryle Johnson is living the life he only imagined living. In April 2012 he was announced winner of the Lucky Break contest for 95.7 The Game. Johnson, known as the “Guru” is a sports fanatic and native of Union City, Calif.
The Lucky break competition featured 150 contestants who were evaluated weekly, on an assignment to deliver the most entertaining sports subject, similar to American Idol. After years of persistent sport call-ins, he has gotten his foot in the sports entertainment industry. His game time ambition has lead him to a victory.
Johnson signed a 1-year contract with 95.7 The Game back in 2012, which included a cash reward. He renewed his contract this year; the program director was pleased with his skills and asked him to stay. Over the past two years the “Guru” broadcast increased the ratings for this show.
The main job of a host is to come to the studio early to organize and prepare their opinions about local and national team levels. Johnson is responsible for covering baseball, football, basketball, and hockey.
“It’s a job, and it’s not just shouting into a microphone. I was blown away at the prep, which this job entails. It is amazing to see how prepared one had to be to have a great show,” said Johnson.
Johnson credited his love for sports to his father Norman Johnson. As a boy he was intrigued by three major sports. “He would take me to see the A’s, Giants, Warriors, 49ers, and Raiders games. I was then a sucker for sports,” Johnson said.
Radio host Zackariah Slenderbroek gave his kudos to Guru for renewing his contract. “He was good enough that he’s still there and getting regular air-time,” said Slenderbroek. “That’s not because of the contest, that’s because he has talent.”
Johnson had plans to pursue a psychology degree, but realized sports were the only topics he was enthusiastic towards.
“After going to college and not really being passionate about anything other than sports I prayed to the Lord that somehow I could get a shot to get into the business,” said Johnson.
As he approached his mid 20’s he listened and paid close attention to various sports hosts, and studied their techniques. “Stephen A. Smith is my favorite sports host, he is professional well spoken and a role model,” Johnson said.
Johnson had confidence and believed he could be a potential sports host, but felt he lacked a strategic plan to achieve his goal. After realizing he needed a better approach to jump-start his career, Johnson became a regular sports caller. He would call several radio stations, national and the Bay Area.
“One day I looked at my iPhone and had 10 text messages. After reading the texts from different friends telling me this is my big break, I had to enter. At this point in my life I was kind of ho hum,” Johnson stated.
If it was not for his friends encouraging him to enter the contest, he admits he would not be on the show.
For the rest of the story visit The Pioneer where this story was published
Jason Barrett is the President and Founder of Barrett Media since the company was created in September 2015. Prior to its arrival, JB served as a sports radio programmer, launching brands such as 95.7 The Game in San Francisco, and 101 ESPN in St. Louis. He also spent time programming SportsTalk 950 in Philadelphia, 590 The Fan KFNS in St. Louis, and ESPN 1340/1390 in Poughkeepsie, NY. Jason also worked on-air and behind the scenes in local radio at 101.5 WPDH, WTBQ 1110AM, and WPYX 106.5. He also spent two years on the national stage, producing radio shows for ESPN Radio in Bristol, CT. Among them included the Dan Patrick Show, and GameNight.
You can find JB on Twitter @SportsRadioPD. He’s also reachable by email at Jason@BarrettMedia.com.
