Joyce Kaufman is retiring from 850 WFTL after 37 years with the South Florida radio station. The longtime host will conclude her career following the 2026 Midterm Elections.
What We Know: Kaufman currently hosts a one-hour show at 3 p.m. on 850 WFTL. After nearly four decades at the station, she plans to step away once the 2026 Midterm Elections conclude. Her retirement will mark the end of a 37-year run with the South Florida talk radio outlet. Kaufman announced the decision while reflecting on her career and the listeners who have followed her throughout the years.
What They Said: “After a lot of thought, I’ve made one of the most difficult decisions of my career. It’s time for me to hang up my headphones and begin a new chapter: retirement. But before I go, there’s something very important I want to do. I want to say thank you. Thank you for all the years you’ve spent listening, for allowing me into your homes, your cars, and your lives. For letting me share my thoughts, my opinions, my stories, and sometimes even a little piece of my heart … You’ve been such an important part of my life, and I hope you’ll join me as we close this chapter together.” -Joyce Kaufman
What Remains Unclear: Kaufman hasn’t announced whether she’ll pursue any projects after leaving 850 WFTL. Additionally, the station hasn’t outlined plans for its 3 p.m. hour following her departure. Her final broadcast date will follow the conclusion of the 2026 Midterm Elections.
What It Means: Kaufman’s retirement brings an end to a 37-year tenure at 850 WFTL. Her departure will close a significant chapter in the station’s programming history. Moreover, her message highlights the relationship she built with listeners over decades on the air. The station will eventually need to determine how it will fill the hour she currently hosts.
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