Paul Schadt Prepares To Unplug

• The end of an era in Charlotte radio is fast approaching, as Paul Schadt, longtime co-host of Paul Schadt & Sarah Lee morning show on iHeartMedia Country WKKT (96.9 The Kat), announced his impending retirement, effective in Feb. 2025. Listen to his on-air announcement here. Fortunately, post-retirement, Schadt will serve as a station ambassador and make on-air and on-site appearances.

“This has been the toughest decision of my life by far, because I love what I do,” said Schadt. “I’m a very lucky guy — I’ve had the most remarkable ‘job’ anyone could ever ask for. Growing up, I never would have believed the people I’d meet and work with, the experiences I’d have and all the lives I’d get to be a part of every day.”

With an extraordinary 44-year career in the Charlotte market, the last 27 years at 96.9 The Kat, Schadt holds the distinction of being the current longest-running personality on Charlotte radio. He’s a 2014 inductee into the Country Radio Hall of Fame, and the recipient of multiple ACM and CMA awards and nominations. Schadt has also been the co-host of Racing Country USA for the last 29 years and continues to have deep relationships with NASCAR drivers and owners.

Dave Carwile, iHeartMedia Region President, praised Schadt’s lasting impact, commenting, “Paul’s journey from the daily broadcast to a cherished ambassador role is a testament to his unmatched contributions and passion for the industry. While he may no longer be on-air with us every morning, his influence and spirit will continue to guide and inspire listeners and colleagues alike. Congratulations to Paul on this exciting new chapter!”