Johnjay, Rich, Kyle & Suzette
The Premiere-syndicated Johnjay & Rich Show just got approval to order a fourth Aeron chair to accommodate the arrival of new co-host Suzette Rodriguez. Based at iHeartMedia Top 40 KZZP (104.7 Kiss FM)/Phoenix, Rodriguez will plug in next to existing hosts Johnjay Van Es, Rich Berra and Kyle Unfug.
“Suzette is the perfect fit for our morning show family,” said Johnjay. “She’s unpredictable, unfiltered, and she’s also got that feisty Latina attitude that reminds me of my upbringing. She brings out the loco in me!” Rich added, “Suzette brings her incredible spirit and energy every time she speaks. The listeners love her realness and charming side. She’s like the little sister we want to impress — and annoy — in equal parts. We’re happy to have her join the madness.”
Along with her move to mornings, Rodriguez, who was doing afternoons on Johnjay & Rich flagship KZZP (104.7 Kiss FM)/Phoenix, will now move up to middays. She will continue to be heard in afternoons on iHeartMedia Rhythmic sister KOHT (Hot 98.3)/Tucson. Rodriguez also hosts Raw Talks with Suzette on iHeartRadio.
The Tucson-born Rodriguez got her radio break at the age of 19 as a board op on KOHT/Tucson. Last summer she filled in for Kyle, who was on maternity leave, and quickly became a fan favorite. “When I was asked to be a fourth member on The Johnjay and Rich Show, I freaked out!” Rodriguez exclaimed. “I’ve always listened to the show, and everyone I know listens to the show. I’m beyond grateful and excited to join an amazing team. I’m ready to learn from the best and start a new journey.”
• And there are more changes in the building — market vet Lady La (left) segues from nights on Hot AC sister KMXP (Mix 96.9) to take over afternoon drive on Kiss FM. At the same time, Reid Spivey (right) unplugs from middays on Kiss and takes over the 7-midnight show on Mix 96.9. Spivey remains APD/MD for Kiss FM and Mix 96.9.
Mat Mitchell, PD of Kiss and Mix said, “Suzette’s progression from afternoons on 104.7 Kiss FM to mornings on the nationally syndicated Johnjay and Rich is a proud moment for the entire team in iHeartMedia’s Arizona Region. I also want to thank Lady La for her role as night host at Mix 96.9 and I’m confident Lady La’s talent and star power will have a powerful impact now that she’s moved to afternoons on 104.7 Kiss FM.”
