There are many sayings that those who work in media use continually. As the content space evolves, one saying has become more relevant than ever: When one door closes, another opens. For Zach Gelb, his exit from the Infinity Sports Network closed out 2025, while opportunity awaited him at the beginning of 2026.
“Once it came out that I wasn’t going to be part of the Westwood One Sports lineup; I had a few companies reach out to me. Two radio companies and 365 Sports,” explained Gelb. “John Vilade (365 Sports co-founder) called me and said, ‘I think you can help us, and we think we could help you.’”
After weighing the options of returning to traditional sports radio, Gelb chose the all-digital route with 365 Sports. Just weeks after his final program on the Infinity Sports Network, the 31-year-old commentator was back in the game. He hosted a daily two-hour program free from the structure of traditional sports radio, with a built-in following and added flexibility.
“It gave me a lot of flexibility if I wanted to pursue some other opportunities as well,” noted Gelb, who also continues to serve as a part-time employee for Audacy and hosted studio coverage for Compass Media Networks this football season.
Fresh Opportunity
Gelb notes that the two radio companies that reached out about his services simply weren’t the right fit at the time. Following his exit from the Infinity Sports Network, Gelb continues to receive temporary severance pay while still employed by Audacy. The agreement with 365 Sports allowed Gelb to continue producing content for his audience as the NFL postseason arrived.
While Gelb admitted the agreement with 365 Sports is only a six-month deal, it allows both him and the network to better understand what each can offer. He noted that recent shifts in how talent can hold multiple platforms for content are something he finds fully interesting. He continues to value his relationship with 365 Sports while also exploring additional opportunities for growth.
While many who leave traditional sports radio often seek independence, Gelb considers himself old school.
“I value working for a company and a network,” said Gelb. “Where I am at now, I still really value that relationship. When you go independent, it’s just you. I have a great staff with me at 365 Sports, who are people working together with me. I always liked collaborating with others; getting those different perspectives makes a better show.”
The End of the Infinity Sports Network
When Audacy and Cumulus Media jointly announced the merger of the Infinity Sports Network and BetMGM Network, Gelb says he was told by those running Westwood One Sports that he would be part of the new network.
However, over the course of the final quarter of the year, plans changed.
“People were shocked that I wasn’t part of the Westwood One Sports lineup,” explains Gelb. “It was a little bit awkward because people assumed I would be a part of the new lineup… Candidly, I was pulled into an office the day the announcement came down (in October). I was told I was going to be a part of the new lineup. I don’t know why I’m not part of the new network.”
In reflection, Gelb felt that his work showcased Westwood One Sports’ focus. With a goal of disruption and social media dominance, he felt he checked those boxes. While he admits he didn’t like Westwood One Sports’ decision not to retain him, Gelb insists he is not bitter and respects the finality of his time with the Infinity Sports Network.
“I’m over it. They’re going to do whatever they’re going to do. Westwood One is a hell of a brand with a lot of success,” notes Gelb. “The only part that rubbed me the wrong way was I was told I was going to be their guy even in a specific daypart. I won’t say which daypart. Then it was, we’re not even going to make you a contract offer.”
Gelb revealed his impending exit from the Infinity Sports Network on the Monday of his final week in December. Although he knew over two weeks prior that he would not be retained, he wanted to make the final week truly matter for the network’s longtime listeners.
Gelb focused on highlighting the names who served the audience over many years on CBS Sports Network and Infinity Sports Network. He paid homage to the past, shared memories, and offered a laugh or two along the way. He also ensured listeners understood how much they were appreciated.
“I was blown away by the amount of emotions shared by the listeners that week. People crying about the ending of our show,” said Gelb. “The last week went perfectly. Everyone is entitled to handle it how they want. I felt I was fair, respectful, and grateful. The reality is I was blessed to have a job for almost eight years where I had a lot of fun and success.”
Moving On
Following his exit, Gelb admitted he had not yet tuned into the Westwood One Sports Network. While he maintains a close relationship with Jim Rome, he has focused on his new opportunity with 365 Sports and moving forward.
He remains grateful for the support he has received online since his departure, as well as the support for his new show with 365 Sports. Much of it came from people he never expected would engage from the new network.
“I have a lot of respect for a guy like Nick Kostos. When I put out my new show pages, I didn’t ask him, but he shared and commented, sharing his endorsement of the new venture. That’s a guy I have a lot of respect for because I don’t know how much attention I would give others in this type of situation,” explained Gelb.
Despite the emotions of the past few months, Gelb says he is hungrier than ever to succeed in the industry. While many could wallow in the moment, he chooses to push forward. He feels that staying at Westwood One Sports would have been a lateral move for his career.
Yet, he gained valuable insight into the industry through his exit, which is fueling his focus for the future.
“I’m hungry to find the next chapter in my sports talk journey. I have no resentment or ill will towards sports media in any fashion,” noted Gelb. “The team is important. You want to go somewhere where you’re wanted and with people who believe in you. Then you can create something special, and I’m looking forward to that.”
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.
