Mike Z departs KCAL-FM following its Classic Rock flip. His Hard Rock show lands at Heftel Broadcasting’s KNAC cluster.
What We Know Barstow-based KNAC and sister stations KHDR and KHYZ-HD3 now carry Mike Z’s weekly “Wired” show. The Hard Rock and Heavy Metal program premiered Thursday at 12-2pm on KNAC, with Saturday 8-10pm repeats. Meanwhile, Mike Z anchored KCAL-FM Redlands for 22 years before the station flipped to jockless Classic Rock this month. He previously worked at KCXX San Bernardino, KLLY and KRAB Bakersfield, plus promotions roles at KCBS-FM and KLYY Los Angeles.
What They Said “What an honor it is for me to add those legendary call letters to my resume,” Mike Z shared, noting he purchased his first KNAC t-shirt at La Casa De Candles in Puente Hills Mall. “I never thought I would one day be on air there,” he added. KNAC Program Director Gonzo Greg expressed enthusiasm: “We are so stoked to have Mike Z bring ‘Wired’ to Pure Rock KNAC. As the premiere hard rock and heavy metal show in the Inland Empire, we’re excited to share the noise with High Desert neighbors.”
What Remains Unclear The format flip’s impact on other KCAL air talent hasn’t surfaced publicly yet. Furthermore, details about “Wired’s” performance across KNAC’s expanded footprint remain unknown. So far, no announcement indicates whether other KCAL personalities will pursue new opportunities.
What It Means Regional market format flips continue reshaping the talent landscape. Additionally, syndication and jockless formats create openings in niche programming. Ultimately, community figures like Mike Z find homes where personality-driven rock radio survives.
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Nashville sports radio just got a major shake-up. Greg Pogue and Darren McFarland are teaming up for a new show on ESPN Radio 94.9FM.
What We Know: The Greg Pogue & Darren McFarland Showdebuts Monday on ESPN Radio 94.9 The Fan. It airs weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon and covers local sports from high schools to the pros. Together, Pogue and McFarland bring more than 50 years of Nashville sports radio experience. Pogue calls play-by-play for Tennessee State football and MTSU women’s basketball, while McFarland has hosted Predators Radio Network pregame and postgame coverage for a decade.
What They Said: Chase McCabe, Director of Operations and Sports Programming for Cromwell Nashville: “I am personally excited to have two of my mentors back with us in the Cromwell family. They have done a lot for me and for this market and are truly two legends. To add Greg and Darren to our local sports talk show line up on ESPN 94.9 The Fan as well as our great lineup on ESPN 102.5 The Game is a huge win for us.”
What Remains Unclear: It’s unclear whether Cromwell Nashville plans additional lineup moves beyond this pairing. Additionally, how Pogue’s Kats duties and McFarland’s Predators work fit around the new schedule remains unaddressed.
What It Means: Ultimately, this move signals Cromwell Nashville is doubling down on veteran, market-tested talent. By pairing two established voices, the station bets on built-in credibility over untested chemistry. Consequently, ESPN 94.9 strengthens its midday lineup as 102.5 The Game nears its 15th anniversary. Also as part of the announcement, the return for a second season of the Metro Nashville Public High Schools Game of the Week.” It will air on The Game 102.5-FM starting tonight.
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Dusty Dvoracek and Danny Kanell wrapped their final show together. Five years of morning college football radio on SiriusXM came to a close. With the end of the program came an announcement that Roy Philpott will be stepping in and replacing Dvoracek, while he shifts to a role in middays.
What We Know: Danny Kanell stays in mornings, joined by new co-host Roy Philpott starting Monday. Philpott has hosted several shows on SiriusXM’s college channel and filled in on mornings numerous times before. He also works for ESPN as a play-by-play announcer since 2016, calling college football, basketball, baseball and softball games as well as contributing to ESPN’s UFL coverage on ABC. Dusty Dvoracek, meanwhile, shifts to middays, College Sports Today, airing noon to 3 p.m. He’ll host alongside Kris Budden, Nicole Auerbach, E.J. Manuel and Bobby Carpenter.
Dusty Dvoracek on working with Danny Kanell: “We started this thing on Tuesdays. [Greg] McIlroy was gone, and I’d come in, and it felt like instant chemistry. You kind of just knew this is gonna work. It’s been so much fun. I love holding you accountable, but it’s all good natured fun. I’m gonna miss you tremendously.”
Dusty Dvoracek on the difficulty leaving the program: “I’ve been doing radio now for almost 15 years. I’ve enjoyed every co-host that I’ve worked with. But this one’s been really special. It’s why it’s so hard to say goodbye. I was hoping we could find a way to make it work. Just not going to work out, and I hate it. But you know, I appreciate you. These five years have been tremendous.”
Dusty Dvoracek excited to see the program he’s leaving continue to grow: “It’s not like I’m dying or I’m going away. I’ll still be talking college sports. But unfortunately, it won’t be with you boys in the morning. But I appreciate all of you. Thank you for this ride. It’s been tremendous fun, and I can’t wait to see how the show is going to move on from here and what’s to come for all of us in the future.”
Danny Kanell on Dusty Dvoracek: “I don’t think anybody knows the sacrifice you’ve made to get up at 4:15, 4:30 in the morning local time to come here and deliver every single morning. Bringing the energy, and bringing the knowledge. You just [made] this show easy to do as a co-host. It’s been awesome. I’ve had an absolute blast last five years. I’ll miss working with you every single morning. Like you said, you’re not going away.”
Danny Kanell shares his thanks for Dusty Dvoracek: “We talk more to each other than we do to our spouses. That’s the reality of doing three hours of radio every day for five years together. Love you like a brother. I’ll still be watching, texting you during games that you’re calling. I’m gonna miss you, man. It’s been an incredible run.”
Danny Kanell announces Roy Philpott as his new co-host: “Roy Philpott, our buddy. You’ve heard him here on the channel across a lot of the different times that we have shows on here. We’ve heard him in here as a fill-in when one of us are gone. We’ve worked together a lot over the past month. He’s going to be stepping in to fill your shoes. Oh boy, I’ve already gotten some complaints that there’s going to be an ACC bias.”
Danny Kanell on his excitement to welcome Roy Philpott to mornings: “I’m fired up to be working with Roy here moving forward, and should be a blast. It should be awesome. So hopefully we’ll keep our fans that you and I built together, and they’ll just expand across the whole day where they can listen to you in the afternoon and be in the morning with Roy.”
What Remains Unclear: It’s unclear how Philpott’s ESPN duties will mesh with a daily morning slot. Dvoracek’s frequency of appearances in middays was also not mentioned.
What It Means: The end of Dusty and Danny closes a five-year chapter in college sports radio. However, neither host is truly leaving the network. Instead, SiriusXM is restructuring its college football audio lineup. Meanwhile, Dvoracek’s expanded ESPN role suggests a growing crossover between radio and television commitments in sports media. Philpott’s addition is a welcome one with much familiarity to the audience. It should provide an easy transition for the listening audience in the mornings.
Bittersweet day @SXMCollege. Sad to see my guy @DustyDvoracek moving on but so grateful for the past 5 yrs. He'll continue to crush it in the afternoons! Don't think anyone knows the sacrifice he made to get up at 4:30am every day and consistently bring great energy. Love u bro! pic.twitter.com/6kYIdwuc3L
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Elle Duncan says Netflix critics hit just as hard as ESPN’s ever did. She made the comparison during a recent appearance on Casuals with Katie Nolan.
What We Know: This was the first year of MLB play by play coverage on Netflix. The results were mixed but the feedback online caught most of the attention. As for viewership, MLB Opening Night on Netflix averaged 3 million viewers in March. The Home Run Derby then drew a 23-year ratings low of 5.3 million. Field of Dreams sank further, pulling only 1.66 million viewers on August 13. Netflix also loses the Field of Dreams broadcast to NBC starting next season. Now with the first year of MLB coverage in the rear view mirror, Netflix Sports host Elle Duncan reflected on the amount of criticism the three-event package received.
Elle Duncan on criticism of Netflix Sports on social media: “These traditional media companies have had a 50-year head start. Also, with the frequency with which they do sporting events means that they can really work on things and then correct them the next day. Like we have to wait two months in between things. Luckily I understand the tenor of social media. I don’t really give a s**t. I don’t care. Really, I don’t give a s**t.”
Elle Duncan says criticism at Netflix and ESPN is very similar: “I thought I worked for the Yankees when I worked at ESPN, where it was just constantly people just trying to pick things apart. Trying to tear you down and rip you to shreds. But I have discovered no, that is where we’re at with Netflix now. I think that some of that is just because it is Netflix. It is an established IP. They feel like the big boogeyman to a lot of companies. So, they want us to already sort of be where some of the traditional broadcasts have been.”
Elle Duncan on the difference between new ideas with Netflix Sports and other networks: “These other companies have a 50-year head start. So, we’re doing all of this very publicly, but we listen. We [Duncan & Katie Nolan] both worked at companies where everything has to be proven and run through 55 channels before it’ll be approved. Netflix is kind of like, try it. If it doesn’t work, we’ll pivot.”
Elle Duncan on listening to viewer feedback on things: “We try things, and we listen to feedback. We heard you on the score bug. So, we gave you a huge score bug Field of Dreams. We heard you on the promos. We listen because we certainly want to make sure that we’re you know providing what the folks are looking for at home. But ultimately, like just give us some grace and some time. It’s kind of like throwing things against the wall.”
Elle Duncan says younger viewers are coming to baseball on Netflix: “There is a reason why MLB wanted to partner with Netflix. When you look at sort of the demo that makes up who’s watching baseball on Netflix, it’s younger. That’s always the white whale that everyone’s chasing is a younger demographic. Baseball is amongst the oldest of the fan bases, along with golf.”
What Remains Unclear: How Netflix’s adapts into year two of their MLB coverage is unknown.
What It Means: For Duncan, the backlash mirrors years of scrutiny she already absorbed at ESPN. She treats it as noise, not validation, pointing to fixes like the bigger scorebug as proof Netflix listens. Still, the ratings slide pressures Netflix’s “try it, pivot” approach as it courts younger fans. Ultimately, Duncan is asking critics for patience, not perfection.
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Rob Archer is joining 95.5 WSB after decades of anchoring in Los Angeles. The move reunites the veteran broadcaster with former KNX News boss Ken Charles.
What We Know: Archer spent 10 years anchoring at KNX News before exiting in 2025 amid companywide layoffs at Audacy. Before that, he spent eight years as an anchor at KFI-AM 640 in Los Angeles. Overall, Archer has worked in radio for more than 45 years. Now, he’ll bring that experience to 95.5 WSB in Atlanta. The move also marks a reunion with Ken Charles, the station’s Program Director. Charles previously held the same role at KNX News during Archer’s tenure.
What They Said: “Whenever I’ve been laid off from somewhere, I’ve told people, ‘The future, as they say, is wide open.’ It’s a way of saying that the routine has been disrupted and life is about to be different. Well, now I can say that about starting something new. I’m getting another ride on the radio machine — the business that’s been a lifelong love. The future, truly, is wide open. There’s a lot to do, of course. I’ve been an Angeleno for 27 years. We’ve got places to sell, plans to make, and many things to figure out. But I’m truly excited to start this brand-new chapter — a chapter I honestly didn’t think I was going to get.” -Rob Archer
What Remains Unclear: Archer’s specific role, start date, and schedule at 95.5 WSB haven’t been detailed publicly. The station also hasn’t announced additional details surrounding his responsibilities.
What It Means: For Archer, the move provides another opportunity to continue a career that has spanned more than four decades. Meanwhile, 95.5 WSB gains a veteran anchor with extensive experience across two major Los Angeles radio brands. Additionally, Charles’ presence gives the move a familiar connection for Archer. After his unexpected exit from KNX News, the opportunity represents a new chapter for one of radio’s longtime voices.
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Former 930 WBEN host Sandy Beach has died after a six-decade career in radio. Beach became one of Buffalo’s most recognizable radio personalities during his 23 years at WBEN.
What We Know: Beach joined 930 WBEN in 1997 and spent 23 years at the station, where he hosted Beach and Company. He retired on July 30, 2020, ending a 60-year career in radio. His broadcasting career included stops at several Buffalo stations, including WKBW, where he first made his mark as a disc jockey. Beach’s WBEN run made him a fixture in Buffalo radio and earned him a loyal following. His career also brought recognition from multiple halls of fame. He entered the Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2003, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013 as a DJ, and the New York State Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2017.
What They Said: “Sandy immediately attracted a loyal audience with his daily entertaining ‘take’ on issues and grew his show to be a staple in the Buffalo media landscape. Very few broadcasters have the lasting impact that Sandy left us and he will be missed both personally and professionally.” -Former 930 WBEN Program Director/Audacy Buffalo Market Manager Tim Wenger
What Remains Unclear: Details surrounding Beach’s death, including his cause of death and funeral arrangements, weren’t immediately available.
What It Means: Beach leaves behind a legacy that spans generations of Buffalo radio listeners. His career stretched from the golden era of music radio into the modern talk radio landscape. Moreover, his longevity reflected his ability to connect with audiences through personality, humor, and his distinctive approach to topical issues. Beach’s influence extended beyond WBEN, but Beach and Company ultimately became one of the defining chapters of his career. His death marks the loss of a broadcaster whose voice remained closely associated with Buffalo radio for decades.
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College GameDayis celebrating a milestone season. All nine on-air voices are coming back for it as the program celebrates its 40th anniversary on ESPN.
What We Know: ESPN’s College GameDay returns its full nine-member team for a 40th season. Rece Davis hosts alongside Kirk Herbstreit, Desmond Howard, Pat McAfee, Nick Saban and “Stanford Steve” Coughlin. Also, Jen Lada, Jess Sims and Pete Thamel reporting for the program. The show’s 500th road edition kicks off Week 1 in Baton Rouge, then heads to Austin and Oxford. Herbstreit also marks 30 years since his 1996 GameDay debut.
What They Said: Matthew Garrett, Vice President of Production for ESPN: “College GameDay holds a unique place in sports media because of the incredible team that brings it to life each week. Together, our on-air talent team serves as the connective tissue between the game and the fans, celebrating the athletes, traditions and communities that define college football. Their storytelling, analysis, authenticity and love for college football make every Saturday special. We’re thrilled to have the entire College GameDay team back for our landmark 40th season.”
What Remains Unclear: ESPN hasn’t detailed shows beyond Week 3, so the rest of the schedule stays a mystery for now. No roster departures were announced; the full talent lineup returns intact.
What It Means: GameDay enters the season fresh off its most-watched year ever, plus a third straight Sports Emmy. That’s 11 wins in the studio-show category and 17 overall. Meanwhile, three consecutive shows will originate from preseason AP Top 15 campuses — a first since 2002. The streak signals GameDay’s continued grip on the sport’s biggest college football storylines.
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Bill Keeler is leaving 950 WIBX after nearly 13 years with the Townsquare Media station. The morning host announced his exit Friday after the program was canceled by corporate.
What We Know: Keeler joined 950 WIBX nearly 13 years ago and has hosted mornings throughout his tenure. He previously helmed mornings at sister station 92.7 The Drive from 2007 to 2010. Additionally, morning show producer Davey Smith has also exited the station. Keeler said he was informed after Friday’s program that the morning show had been canceled. As a result, Friday marked his final day with Townsquare Media. However, the company told Keeler he could apply for other positions outside the market.
What They Said: “I was informed today, following my program, that the morning show on WIBX has been cancelled by corporate. As a result, my last day with Townsquare Media was today, although I was told I could apply for other positions that might be available with the company outside the market. Based on what I’ve seen happening throughout the radio industry nationwide, I knew a day like this could eventually come, although I certainly didn’t expect it to happen today. I’m extremely thankful for the nearly 13 years I’ve spent at the Marcy studios, and especially grateful for the people I’ve had the privilege of working with over the years.
“As for what comes next, plans for my next career move have actually been underway for the last six months, and the thought of going down a different road has been incredibly exciting. Please stay tuned. I’ll have much more to say about the future sometime next week.” -Bill Keeler
What Remains Unclear: Townsquare Media hasn’t announced what will replace the canceled morning show on 950 WIBX. The company also hasn’t detailed whether Smith’s departure is connected directly to the programming change.
What It Means: Keeler’s departure marks a significant change for 950 WIBX after more than a decade of morning programming. Meanwhile, his comments suggest he’s already preparing for his next career move, which he expects to discuss next week.
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Hubbard has selected Declan Moore to succeed Joel Oxley as President and Market Manager in Washington, D.C. Moore will lead WTOP and the company’s other Washington media properties.
What We Know: Oxley has spent his entire career at WTOP. He joined the station in 1992 before rising to Senior Vice President and Market Manager of the cluster. He’ll retire next year after more than three decades with the station. Meanwhile, Moore joins Hubbard after serving as Head of International for Wondery, the podcast company owned by Amazon. Earlier in his career, Moore spent 23 years as an executive at National Geographic.
What They Said: “I’m honored to have the opportunity to build on the extraordinary legacy Joel Oxley has created here in Washington. WTOP, Federal News Network and 2060 Digital are exceptional brands with deep connections to the communities they serve throughout the National Capital Region. I’m energized by the opportunity to work with the talented teams here to build on those strengths and help these businesses continue to evolve and grow.” -Declan Moore
“We are thrilled to welcome Declan as the next leader of WTOP, FNN and 2060 Digital in Washington, DC. While he has very big shoes to fill following in the footsteps of Joel Oxley, Declan has a strong track record of retaining the essence and legacy of media brands while leading them into the future … We look forward to seeing him work with the exceptional team of professionals at Hubbard Washington D.C. on building upon the nearly 60-year legacy of connecting with and serving the local community with local news and information” -Hubbard CEO Ginny Hubbard
What Remains Unclear: Hubbard hasn’t detailed when Moore will officially assume the position. It has also not provided additional information about Oxley’s transition following his retirement.
What It Means: Moore brings experience across traditional media, digital media and podcasting to one of Hubbard’s most prominent markets. His arrival also gives Hubbard an executive with experience managing established brands while navigating changing audience habits. However, replacing Oxley represents a significant leadership transition for WTOP after more than three decades under his influence.
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ESPN has locked in its distribution deals for Unlimited. Now it’s chasing deeper engagement through added short-form video and social content.
What We Know: According to a report by Axios, ESPN vice president of sports products and strategy Brian Marshall says the network plans on bringing more ESPN content created elsewhere. In forms such as short-form video, original reporting and social media content and bringing it into the app experience. ESPN Unlimited leans on personalization tools to keep fans engaged currently. Verts, its vertical-video product, drew over 24 million users and generated 1.5 billion minutes watched over the past year. Multiview let more than 5 million fans watch multiple events at once, creating over 12,000 unique viewing combinations. ESPN also produced more than 40,000 personalized “SportsCenter For You” segments.
What They Said:Brian Marshall, ESPN vice president of sports products and strategy (via Axios): “It allows us to think about the space holistically. We’re agnostic to how fans end up subscribing to ESPN.”
What Remains Unclear: Marshall didn’t detail how much additional short-form or social content ESPN plans to add. ESPN has not released the amount of subscribers the Unlimited tier has gained since launching one year ago. Meanwhile, it’s unclear how the new Disney-TikTok partnership will shape future features. No timeline for rollout was disclosed.
What It Means: Engagement, not just reach, will define ESPN’s next phase. Now one year into the network’s direct-to-consumer app, fans using interactive features already watch twice as long as those who don’t. That gap suggests personalization tools could become key retention drivers going forward. Expect ESPN to lean harder into creator partnerships and short-form formats.
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