Since we recently addressed Urban radio and “The Diddy Dilemma,” I figured this topic—while controversial—might also serve as an important conversation starter.
Throughout my career, I’ve always told my program directors that it’s critical to manage up. That means getting ahead of potential issues. Knowing when to bring up an issue. Reading the room, shaping the narrative when possible, and making sure leadership isn’t blindsided.
My father used to say, “Everything is political.” Back then, we didn’t talk politics or religion outside the house. Funny how times have changed—and how right he was.
These are uncertain times for on-air personalities and programmers in urban radio. There’s no denying the deeply personal feelings sparked by what we see on TV, across our phones, and echoing through the airwaves. Historically, Black radio has always served as a messenger for the community. But today, delivering that message can put stations and staff in an uncomfortable—and often perceived risky—position.
I’d love to be able to say, “Stand your ground, and the truth will set you free.” But in today’s landscape, the truth has many versions. And many “fathers.” One line from a sitcom sticks with me more: “It’s not a lie if you believe it.”
Jokes aside, navigating the current political climate feels more and more like a minefield. The trigger letters: DEI, CRT, or phrases like “Stay Woke.” Choosing what stories to highlight. How much opinion to include, and what risks to take, can weigh heavily on a responsible broadcaster.
All I’ve ever had to guide me is my gut. And that gut has been shaped by how I was raised and the environments I’ve worked in. While everyone’s talking about the Constitution and what it means to uphold it, I think of my own, much smaller but no less serious promise: to be a responsible broadcaster.
No, I didn’t swear with my hand on a Bible, but I made a personal commitment to the community and the public airwaves.
What does that mean in practice? For me, it boils down to one mantra: Do the right thing. That phrase might sound simple, but it’s a guiding light. Being a responsible broadcaster means showing up for your audience, being truthful, being accountable, and understanding the weight of your voice.
And yes—everything is political. Politics isn’t limited to city hall, the state house, or Capitol Hill. It’s alive in corporate offices, in studio hallways, and definitely inside multi-format radio buildings.
I’ve raised my eyebrows more times than I can count while passing by the monitors of the talk station during my time in Alabama. But I’ve come to believe that discomfort can be productive. It forces you to think critically.
It’s not about who’s right or wrong—that usually shakes out over time. What matters is that you and your team are responsible broadcasters. I’ve always believed in managing up and in my commitment to “do the right thing,” even if that meant asking for forgiveness instead of permission.
So, here’s my bottom line: If you ever find yourself when sharing news and commentary on this political climate in a tough spot—on the air, on social media, or behind the scenes—lean into what your community needs. Be responsible. Be accountable. And always, always do the right thing.
As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
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Ken Johnson is an Urban/Hip-Hop columnist for Barrett Media. Born and raised in Washington DC, his career experiences include serving as VP of Urban formats for Cumulus Media, holding the Director of Urban Programming post at ABC Radio Networks, and programming stations in Birmingham, Boston, Philadelphia, and New York City. He has also managed affiliate relations for the Nick Cannon show, and worked as the Executive Producer of The Hughley Truth Podcast hosted by comedian DL Hughley. Ken currently runs Mean Ole Lion Media, a content creation company and podcast network. He can be reached by email at ken@kenjohnsonmedia.com.
