Cumulus Media has finalized a new contract extension with Lauren O’Neil, keeping the longtime host in middays at Chicago Alternative outlet Q101.
O’Neil, a familiar voice to Chicago listeners for more than a decade, first joined WKQX in July 2012 during the station’s run on 87.7 FM. Since then, she has become one of the brand’s most consistent and recognizable personalities, anchoring the midday shift for nearly her entire tenure.
She briefly moved to afternoons from 2021 to 2022, but ultimately returned to middays, where she has maintained one of the station’s strongest listener connections.
While the length of the extension was not disclosed, the move reinforces Cumulus Media’s commitment to stability at a station that has gone through multiple iterations over the last decade..
Before arriving in Chicago, O’Neil built an extensive resume across several markets. She launched her career at the University of Florida’s Rock 104 in Gainesville, where she developed her on-air presence and production skills. From there, she moved to Tampa to join iHeartMedia’s 98 Rock, spending seven years with the station. During her run, she co-hosted both mornings and afternoons while also voice-tracking for several other stations.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.
