Mike Marino, a beloved radio programmer and morning show content expert, has passed away after a long battle with cancer. He was 60 years old.
What We Know: Marino spent decades shaping radio across multiple formats. He was widely regarded as a master of Urban AC programming. Twenty-five years ago, he created TheBitXChange, a prep service for morning shows. That platform still operates today as GotRooster and AmeriCountry.
What They Said: Jason Hillery, OM of Midwest Communications in Green Bay and Marino’s longtime friend, delivered the news. “Mike lived and breathed radio,” Hillery said. “He loved the industry, he loved the people in the industry, and was always finding ways to help talent improve their craft.” Hillery also noted that Marino kept his illness private, never letting his diagnosis slow him down.
What Remains Unclear: Details about memorial services have not yet been released. Hillery indicated that information will be forthcoming. Marino’s passing leaves a significant void in the industry. The full scope of his impact is still being realized.
What It Means: Marino’s death is a profound loss for radio. He represented the kind of tireless, passionate professional the industry rarely produces. His work touched morning shows across the country. He is survived by his wife, Leslie, and stepdaughter, Jennifer.
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David Hill serves as a Music Radio Editor, Columnist and Features writer for Barrett Media. A radio lifer with more than 30 years behind the mic, in the control room, and in the program director’s chair, David’s career spans influential stops at brands such as WIYY 98 Rock, WBAL-AM, and 99X. He has worked across multiple formats and ownership groups, including iHeartMedia and Cumulus Media, developing talent, breaking music, and navigating every major industry shift from diary to PPM and terrestrial dominance to streaming disruption. When he’s not writing or analyzing the industry, Dave runs The Tune Farm, a marketing firm built to help artists and brands grow audience the same way great radio always has—by creating connection, not just impressions. He can be reached at David@BarrettMedia.com.