We announced plans on Monday to introduce The Mike McVay Award at the 2026 Barrett Media Audio Summit presented by Point to Point Marketing. The honor named after the longtime radio consultant and executive will recognize annually a rising music radio program director who combines creative instincts, multiplatform vision, and a deep understanding of music and culture. It’s an award to showcase individuals who elevate talent, champion innovation, and bring a collaborative and consistent creative energy to the brands they represent.
To help decide a winner, executives from twelve radio groups were asked to nominate someone within their organization who warranted consideration. My thanks to every executive who took time to share their input. We received some outstanding feedback. That made this process very difficult. There were so many great stories and deserving people. As I told each of them, picking one in your company is hard, but choosing one from a special group is even tougher.
Mike McVay and I reviewed the input, examined the candidates, and agreed on the final choice. Today, I’m excited to share that Yonni Rude has been chosen as the first recipient of the Mike McVay Award. Yonni will join us in New York City to accept the honor from Mike at the Premiere Networks Awards ceremony on Thursday, July 2, 2026.
I called Yonni to inform him of the honor and he was both humble and grateful. He said of the recognition, “As a third-generation broadcaster, I grew up understanding the power of radio. What I didn’t know was how much the journey would shape me. Radio has taken me places I never imagined, introduced me to incredible people, and allowed me to be part of moments that matter.”
Yonni’s selection also mattered to Mile McVay. “It was greatly important to me that the recipient of an award bearing my name be carefully scrutinized as this acknowledgement reflects on me as much as it does on them. This inaugural presentation going to someone I’ve watched succeed as a programmer, combined with their quality reputation, puts a spotlight on those who are shaping the future of radio.”
If you glance at Yonni’s LinkedIn profile, you’ll immediately notice the opening line: “I help talent reach their potential.” Those words reflect an interest in helping people succeed. Both Majic 102.1 and 97.9 The Box do that on a consistent basis in Houston. Each has a strong ratings story and popular personalities, but even more impressive is the brand’s digital impact. In less than three years, Yonni’s influence has rubbed off on everyone. Each station’s footprint continues to expand, while its traditional radio story remains powerful.
I asked Radio One’s Senior VP of Programming Colby Colb what makes Yonni exceptional. He pointed to his collaborative spirit, innovative mindset, and ability to elevate talent, inspire others, and earn trust. Radio One co-President Deon Levingston praised Yonni’s creativity, consistency and track record of success!
Yonni’s career started in Fayetteville, North Carolina with Beasley Media before joining Citadel and Cumulus Media in Charleston, South Carolina. During his 15 year run there, he grew from Music Director/Afternoon Host to APD and PD. A four and a half year run in multiple markets with Radio One came next. Yonni started in Richmond, VA, before advancing to Detroit and Cleveland. In each stop, he continued making an impression. That led to a move to Atlanta to become Executive Producer of The Morning Hustle.
After nearly three years with the Hustle, Yonni headed to Houston to lead Majic 102.1 and 97.9 The Box in January 2024. Since arriving, both brands have remained format leaders while extending their reach beyond the dashboard.
The Mike McVay Award is designed to recognize a rising leader whose influence extends beyond the ratings. That’s what Yonni Rude does. We are looking forward to recognizing his accomplishments in New York City on Thursday, July 2nd. I hope to see you there.
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Jason Barrett is the Founder and CEO of Barrett Media. The company launched in September 2015 and has provided consulting services to America’s top audio and video brands, while simultaneously covering the media industry at BarrettMedia.com, becoming a daily destination for media professionals. Prior to Barrett Media, Jason built and programmed 95.7 The Game in San Francisco, and 101 ESPN in St. Louis. He was also the first sports programmer for SportsTalk 950 in Philadelphia, which later became 97.5 The Fanatic. Barrett also led 590 The Fan KFNS in St. Louis, and ESPN 1340/1390 in Poughkeepsie, NY, and worked on-air and behind the scenes at 101.5 WPDH, WTBQ 1110AM, and WPYX 106.5. He also spent two years at ESPN Radio in Bristol, CT producing ‘The Dan Patrick Show’ and ‘GameNight’. JB can be reached on Twitter @SportsRadioPD or by email at Jason@BarrettMedia.com.
