The Programming Dept.
• We recently told you Jud Heussler was preparing to leaving his post as APD/MD/afternoon talent at Entercom Top 40 WKSE (Kiss 98.5) in his hometown of Buffalo, NY for a mystery gig TBA… the cat is now officially out of the bag — Heussler is headed to his inaugural PD gig in Raleigh, NC, hired by Curtis Media Group to program Top 40 WWPL-WPLW (96.9 & 102.5 Pulse FM), effective next week.
In making the announcement, CMG VP of Programming (and WQDR Station Manager) Lisa McKay said, “I was looking for a unique set of characteristics for this position and Jud checked off all my boxes, including: imaging with heart, disciplined research-based music approach, a level head, nurturing airchecking sessions, the ability to put together win-win promotions with sales and programming and believing in the power of radio as a mass media.” Heussler remarked, I’m looking forward to putting my new world skills set and old school passion to work continuing to grow the 100,000-watt Pulse brand!”
• iHeartMedia Top 40 KOSY (Y95.7)/Cedar Rapids, IA has filled its PD vacancy with Sean Strife. Strife transfers in from iHeartMedia Los Angeles, where he was the Producer for On Air With Ryan Seacrest at KIIS-FM. He also produced the Jesse Lozano in the Morning show and was on-air at Sports-Talk KLAC (AM 570 LA Sports). Strife is originally from Boca Raton, FL and began his radio career in Gainesville and West Palm Beach before moving to L.A. in 2013.
“Sean was the obvious choice for this role,” said JJ Cook, SVP of Programming for iHeartMedia Cedar Rapids and Iowa City. “He brings his major-market experience, format knowledge and industry connections with him to help Y957 FM continue its strong growth in the Cedar Rapids and Iowa City markets. He knows what our listeners want and I know he’ll enjoy his first real taste of winter with the Y957 FM family!” The Y95.7 PD position has been open since November, when Josh Martinez was named PD of Top 40 and Country siblings WCHD (Channel 99.9) and WYDB (B94.5)/Dayton, OH.
