iHeartMedia Hartford and New Haven has appointed Michael Johnson Jr. as Program Director for both markets. He assumes oversight of four sports and talk stations, effective immediately.
What We Know: Johnson takes the helm of Fox Sports 97.9, home of the UConn Sports Radio Network, NewsRadio 1410 (WPOP-AM), 960 WELI-AM, and Fox Sports 1300 (WAVZ-AM). He brings hands-on experience from Townsquare Media Albany, where he served as Brand Manager of WTMM 104.5 The Team ESPN Radio. Additionally, he called play-by-play for UAlbany football and men’s basketball. Johnson reports directly to Dylan Sprague, SVP of Programming for iHeartMedia Boston/Hartford.
What They Said: Michael Johnson Jr. “I am thrilled to begin this next chapter at iHeart. Sports fans are passionate and engaged. I am eager to grow all of the stations, deepen the connections with listeners and continue expanding our digital presence.”
Dylan Sprague, Senior Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia Boston/Hartford “Michael’s energy, passion and leadership make him a strong fit to lead our Sports and Talk portfolio in Hartford and New Haven. These are powerful brands and we’re excited to build on their success under Michael’s leadership.”
What It Means: This appointment signals iHeartMedia’s commitment to strengthening its sports and talk footprint across two competitive Connecticut markets. Johnson’s blend of brand management and on-air experience positions him well. Consequently, both markets should expect a focused push toward deeper audience engagement across broadcast and digital platforms. It will also be interesting to see if Johnson will own a daypart on any of the four stations he will be overseeing.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.
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.
