Zöe McMahan becomes Program Director at 97.5 WABD Mobile. Cumulus Media also named her afternoon host for the Cumulus-owned CHR station.
What We Know McMahan spent four years climbing the ranks within Cumulus’ Mobile cluster. She started as a promotions assistant, then transitioned into account executive and regional sales assistant positions. Meanwhile, she hosted middays across both 97.5 WABD Mobile and sister station Hot 94.1 WMEZ Pensacola. Her internal career progression cleared the path for this promotion.
What They Said McMahan reflected on her journey in a Facebook post, revealing her genuine passion for radio. “I wondered down the radio rabbit hole four years ago, and I couldn’t be more grateful,” she wrote. She emphasized learning from industry veterans daily while celebrating her childhood connection to the station. “I grew up listening to this station everyday, and I could not be more excited to be trusted to run the WABD ship,” McMahan continued. “Radio is still the most cool thing ever, keep your dial set to 97.5.”
What Remains Unclear The promotion leaves several strategic questions unanswered for the format. Will McMahan reshape the programming approach at 97.5 WABD Mobile going forward? Additionally, specifics about her immediate priorities as Program Director remain undisclosed. The station hasn’t addressed how her afternoon hosting duties will balance with management responsibilities.
What It Means Cumulus demonstrates confidence through internal promotion, which also saves recruitment costs and hiring time. Furthermore, McMahan brings a younger, digitally-native perspective to the CHR format. Her existing relationships with staff and listeners position her well for steering 97.5 WABD Mobile through the next chapter.
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.
