It’s been a very busy few months for Audacy’s sports radio flagship WFAN in New York City. Craig Carton’s return to the legendary radio brand for a third run created truth to rumors that had lasted for months following his departure from Breakfast Ball on FS1. Amid the changes came an opportunity for Carton’s former producer, Chris McMonigle. A WFAN lifer who worked his way from an intern in 2007 to full-time overnight host in July of 2023.
Today, the dream he had from childhood continues on the grandest stage of them all: afternoon drive in New York City on the brand that defined the format.
“I haven’t even picked my head up yet to think about the pressure [of afternoon drive]. I’m trying to focus on getting things started and doing the best I can, but it’s obvious. There’s more pressure and eyes on us,” said McMonigle. “It’s an incredible experience so far, and I’m really excited about it.”
McMonigle spent the last two and a half years as the guiding voice for WFAN’s overnight programming, He sat sidecar for so many working the third shift keeping them entertained while connecting on a personal level. His efforts during that time were not ignored.
The Opportunity Presented
McMonigle says he was approached by Audacy Chief Business Officer and New York Market President Chris Oliviero in mid-November with an opportunity he did not see coming.
“I had some time with it before it was announced. It was an exciting surprise,” said McMonigle. “It’s been a lifelong dream. Just to be the overnight host I felt was a dream, and I felt I was just becoming accustomed to that role. It’s been a whirlwind, but it’s been a crazy but exciting couple of months.”
Following his initial conversations before the Thanksgiving holiday, McMonigle says station management kept him fully in the loop about the potential opportunity. His experience as Carton’s producer for over two years alongside Evan Roberts helped build strong camaraderie between them.
As a result, McMonigle felt that a reunion, albeit in a new setting as a co-host, would be a smooth and comfortable fit.
“Now it’s just speaking less. The idea of sharing the time and establishing that rhythm of the back-and-forth is different,” said McMonigle. “Craig opens the show, leads the calls and segments. Those are all things I’ve been doing exclusively for over two years. Sometimes when the music comes back, I’ve caught myself just turning on the mic to start. It’s just getting used to it.”
When Carton departed WFAN to take on a role with FOX Sports in 2023, McMonigle knew it wouldn’t be his last stop with the station. He noted Carton’s legacy with the brand, along with his ability to generate ratings and revenue success over two previous stints, wouldn’t keep him away from a third crack in the Big Apple.
A Future Unknown
During the time following Carton’s exit to FOX Sports, McMonigle says he wasn’t worried about Carton taking his overnight position at WFAN. He didn’t allow rumors of a return to affect his focus, noting that being an overnight host insulated him from much of the scuttlebutt surrounding the prime dayparts.
Now, with Carton back in afternoons and Evan Roberts and Tiki Barber in middays, McMonigle feels the WFAN weekday lineup has a “big feel” in every daypart. While excited to be trusted as a key part of that lineup, he admits he didn’t always believe the opportunity would come at WFAN.
“Along the way there were times where [WFAN] felt very stagnant. The guys from behind the glass weren’t getting a lot of opportunities,” explained McMonigle. “There were times when it became a challenge. You felt you had to leave if you want to get on air. There were absolutely times at the station where I felt I didn’t know where this is all going. I love the station; I want to be here. But is this the best place for me?”
Change is never easy, and WFAN navigated a very public transition over the past few months with Carton’s return. While McMonigle’s role was elevated, station management ultimately decided that Brandon Tierney and Sal Licata would depart. In the weeks following the official announcement, BT & Sal were given the opportunity to close out their program on their own terms.
McMonigle praised the way both Tierney and Licata handled a very public and difficult situation.
“In radio you don’t always get the last show. [Chris] Russo didn’t get that. We’ve always heard once it’s over, it’s over,” said McMonigle. “I know BT and Sal will be great with whatever’s next. They [Tierney, Licata] handled it incredibly well, and I thought the station did well too… It went as well as it probably could have went.”
The Next Generation
McMonigle’s career path has always been tied to WFAN. His story reflects hard work, dedication, and embracing opportunity when it presents itself. He jokes that hard work never goes out of style, but the sentiment rings true when applied to his journey.
Although his story now continues into afternoon drive, McMonigle is often asked for guidance by those trying to break into the industry. He recognizes that his path was shaped by the timing of his entry. He also acknowledges that the landscape for breaking through in sports radio is much different today.
“The difference is it might be easier than ever to get started. There are so many platforms and different things to find and be a part of, but maybe that makes it more difficult to cut through,” explained McMonigle. “There’s still a role to go somewhere and do whatever it takes to get somewhere and stay relevant in that company. But it is a different world. There are more ways now to do it than just one.”
With the first week of shows alongside Craig Carton officially complete, McMonigle is focused on what’s ahead. The comfort level of working with Carton is already there, and McMonigle says he knows he’s in good hands with one of the best to ever do it.
Each day comes without a set plan of attack. As McMonigle puts it, the vibe should always be two buddies talking about sports, with the rest taking care of itself.
“My wife would say I speak fluent sarcasm. Me and Craig are very similar in that way,” noted McMonigle. “I’m not even thinking of changing anything. I’m thinking about starting something. For me, Craig and I are starting something new. For him it may be his third crack at it, but it’s my first. This is something new, and I’m looking forward to it.”
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.
John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.
