A Providence radio icon is hanging up the headphones. Giovanni, known off-air as Daniel Centofanti, has officially retired from afternoons at iHeartMedia’s WWBB (B101)/Providence and WCIB (Cool 102)/Falmouth, MA.
What We Know: Giovanni’s radio journey spans an extraordinary 52 years. He spent 25 of those years in mornings at Cumulus Top 40 WPRO (92 PRO FM), retiring after that legendary run.
Then, in January 2025, iHeartMedia coaxed him back for afternoons at B101 — an 18-month encore he clearly relished.
With Gio’s departure, Adam Rivers now handles afternoons at WWBB, while veteran Jeffrey T. Mason takes over afternoons at WCIB. Rivers also serves as Director of Programming & Brand Strategy for iHeartMedia Top 40. As well as holding PD/on-air roles at WKSS/Hartford and WKCI/New Haven.
What They Said: I spoke to Gio this morning, who shared this with Barrett Media, “In my 52 years in radio I can’t complain about anything. I’ve done every shift, one in particular for 25 years (mornings) worked with some of the best in the business and really had a good time.
After my time at WPRO-FM I thought I was done, then the folks at B101 asked me to do afternoons and play all those songs from the 80’s etc and just be a DJ again. I jumped at that because I wanted to scratch that itch while I had the chance. Anyone on radio will fully understand what I mean.
From all the years and all the program directors and fellow jocks, I really had fun. Now I need to hang up the headphones and let the next generation take over for real.
I wish I could thank everyone who’s crossed my path but it might take another 52 years so I’ll just say thank you to everyone especially the listeners who even to this day stop me and say hi and how they appreciate having me around.”
B101 honored Gio on Instagram, calling him “the legend” and thanking him for his contributions to the station.
What Remains Unclear: Whether Giovanni stays truly retired this time remains to be seen. His first retirement didn’t stick, after all. Additionally, no word yet on whether his departure opens further lineup shifts across iHeartMedia’s Providence cluster.
What It Means: Giovanni’s exit marks the end of a truly rare career in local radio. It signals a full generational handoff at two heritage stations. His story is a reminder of what great air talent means to a market.
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Bethany Kent is a Music Radio Editor for Barrett Media. She spent nearly 20 years bringing radio to life on stages, across the airwaves, and through unforgettable listener experiences. Her career spans local markets including Providence, Philadelphia, and New York City, most recently serving as National Director of Music Initiatives for Audacy. From producing major live events like HOT 97’s Summer Jam to leading strategic national marketing initiatives, she has built a career at the intersection of music, media, and culture. She can be reached at bethany@barrettmedia.com.
