Audacy’s 92.9 FM ESPN in Memphis is reshaping its weekday lineup while preparing for the departure of one of the most recognizable voices in the market. The station announced a series of programming changes that will take effect January 12, highlighted by expanded roles for several local hosts and the conclusion of Geoff Calkins’ run on the air.
Calkins, a longtime columnist and broadcaster who helped establish the station’s identity. He announced he will step away from radio to concentrate on his work as lead columnist at The Daily Memphian. His final broadcast is scheduled for January 9.
Beginning next week, J&J featuring John Martin and Jason Smith will move into the 9 a.m. to noon CT slot. The show has become a staple for local sports fans through its mix of Memphis-focused analysis and broader national discussion. Immediately following, Jeffrey Wright and Company will expand to a three-hour midday window, airing from noon to 3 p.m. CT, marking a significant increase in the show’s presence on the schedule.
The changes come as the station closes a defining chapter tied closely to Calkins’ influence. Widely respected in print and broadcast, Calkins helped launch 92.9 FM ESPN. He became synonymous with its morning programming and opinion-driven evening segments. In 2009, Calkins and Gary Parrish became the station’s first local hosts. Since then, 92.9 FM ESPN has grown into one of the nation’s most successful mid-sized sports talk stations.
Calkins posted on X announcing the news Sunday morning.
“I’m giving up the radio show. Thanks to all y’all who listened, called, advertised, worked alongside me at 92.9 — and made it so much fun,” he said.
Over the years, his work earned national recognition and helped elevate the station’s profile well beyond the Memphis market.
“When I started in radio, it was mostly as a side gig, to help pay my bills,” Calkins said to the Daily Memphian. “But I grew to really love the daily conversation with the Memphis community. We’d take calls. We’d laugh a lot.”
Brad Carson, brand manager and operations manager for 92.9 FM ESPN, credited Calkins with shaping the station’s voice and mentoring many of the personalities now moving into larger roles.
“Geoff defined the brand through his ability to combine sharp sports storytelling with meaningful coverage of the Memphis community,” Carson said in a statement. “The foundation he built allows the next generation of talent to continue delivering the level of coverage our listeners expect.”
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