Chachi Loves Everybody – Détails, épisodes et analyse

EPISODE SUMMARY: Rick Dees is an radio legend, entertainer, comedian. He shares how he created one of the most iconic countdowns in history and redefined what it means to connect with the audience in this hilarious career retrospective.

Dees will be among those honored this fall as Giants of Broadcasting by the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation at the 2025 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony on November 14th at Gotham Hall in New York City.

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to Rick Dees about:

1. His early misadventures in radio as a high school and college student in North Carolina
2. The story behind creating Disco Duck, how it became a hit, and how it got him fired
3. Getting tapped by Dick Clark to go on air in Los Angeles, and becoming a household name in LA and beyond
4. The entertainers and unlikely sources that inspired him as a performer and storyteller
5. Learning to invest after people tried to steal from him, and his financial advice
6. Why he bought a farm in Kentucky
7. Creating the Weekly Top 40 and how it became the longest continuously running countdown ever.
8. Starring in a late night show opposite Johnny Carson 
9. His other ventures including his farm, his own app, cookbook, and launching Home Living which became the Cooking Channel

And More!

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: Rick Dees is a radio legend, comedic genius and multi-talented entertainer, known for his captivating enthusiasm and quick-witted humor, which continue to leave an indelible mark on the entertainment world.

With an extraordinary career spanning decades, Dees has entertained and delighted millions across the globe, solidifying his place as one of the most influential and beloved figures in broadcasting history.

Best known for his internationally syndicated radio show, The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40, Dees’ familiar voice and unforgettable characters are heard by more than 70 million listeners each weekend, spanning virtually every city in the United States, 125 countries, 27 massive ships at sea, and the Armed Forces Radio Network. His show even broke barriers by becoming the first English-speaking radio program to entertain listeners in Beijing, China, making history in the process.

Rick Dees rose to prominence when he took over the top-rated morning show on KIIS-FM Los Angeles in July 1981, turning it into the number one revenue-generating radio station in America and making him the hottest property in radio. His unprecedented success earned him Billboard’s Radio Personality of the Year Award an astonishing ten years in a row. Further cementing his legacy, Dees was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame and the National Association of Broadcasters’ Hall of Fame and was honored with the prestigious Marconi Award.

Dees embraced the digital age with the same pioneering spirit that defined his radio career. His innovative music streaming platform, BYOChannel, offers users the ability to “build their own” personalized channels from a library of over 40 million tracks. He further extended his brand’s reach with the Rick Dees Hit Music app, delivering The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 and Daily Dees directly to millions of Apple and Android devices worldwide.

In 2025, iHeartMedia launched two new iHeartRadio Original Streaming Stations in partnership with Rick Dees Entertainment — Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 and Classic Rick Dees Top 40. The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 station features the current Weekly Top 40 program, while Classic Rick Dees Top 40 goes back in the archives to feature complete countdowns from the original shows that aired in the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, many of which haven’t been heard in years.

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Paul Allen
• Larry Allen
• Billy Graham
• Tom Miller
• Ralph Lambeth
• Glenn Powers
• Ken Lowe
• Sam & Dave
• Isaac Hayes
• Estelle Axton
• Robert Stigwood
• Al Corey
• Wolfman Jack
• Dick Clark
• Bill Murray
• Elmer Bernstein
• Jonathan Winters
• Johnny Carson
• Paul Drew
• Chuck Martin
• Lynn Anderson
• Don Benson
• Barbara Streisand
• Madonna
• Michael Jackson
• Wally Clark
• Roger Cleveland
• Charlie Tuna
• Robert W. Morgan
• Don Steele
• Bernie Carniel
• Sandy Gallin
• Dolly Parton
• Neil Diamond
• Barry Diller
• Michael Eisner
• Madeleine Pugh
• Lucille Ball
• Cary Grant
• Ava Gardner
• John Stewart
• Robin Williams
• Julie McWhirter-Dees
• Peter Simone
• Jerry Edelstein
• Bette Midler
• Jon Bon Jovi
• Kevin Dees
• Paul Joseph
• Ellen K
• Liz Fulton
• Rachel Donahue
• Roy Loughlin
• Nick Verbitsky
• Casey Kasem
• Lisa Canning
• Ed White
• Shohei Otani
• Lesley Visser
• David Muir
• Gary Sandy

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world- class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown’s Audio Architecture is one of the only commercial libraries that is built exclusively for radio spots to provide the right music for radio commercials. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now & Then, Hey, Morton, StudioTexter, The Rooster Show Prep, and AmeriCountry. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: IEX: Boxes and Lines and Molecular Moments.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Instagram: instagram.com/benztownradio

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review! 

EPISODE SUMMARY: Acclaimed actor Gary Sandy reflects on his remarkable career in television and theater, sharing insights from his TV and Broadway experience including his iconic role as Andy Travis on WKRP in Cincinnati. Sandy will be honored as an LABF Giant of Broadcasting this November.

Sandy will be among those honored this fall as Giants of Broadcasting by the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation at the 2025 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony on November 14th at Gotham Hall in New York City.

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to Gary Sandy about:

1. Growing up in Dayton, Ohio and aspiring to be an actor
2. Moving to New York and working odd jobs before becoming getting his break playing  soap opera bad boys
3. What it was like broadcasting live for 50 million people in As the World Turns
4. How he landed the role of Andy Travis on WKRP in Cincinnati
5. What went on behind the scenes of WKRP and his favorite moments from the show
6. The demanding but fulfilling life acting on Broadway and national tours
7. Performing a one man show at the Grand Ole Opry
8. Advice for breaking into the TV business

And More!

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: Gary Sandy is a gifted and beloved actor whose extraordinary career has spanned stage, screen, and television, earning him a lasting place in the hearts of audiences across the country.

Born on Christmas Day in Dayton, Ohio, Gary attended Wilmington College of Ohio and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City. He began his professional career in daytime television with a role created for him on As the World Turns, which launched a successful seven-year run of memorable performances in Another World, Somerset, and his personal favorite, The Secret Storm. The impact these roles played on his later career cannot be underestimated. According to Sandy, “The pressure of performing in front of a live audience or live tape made everything else a little easier. Ït was 40 or 50 million people RIGHT NOW!  You were not allowed to make a mistake. Nothing else could be more terrifying.”

Best known for his unforgettable portrayal of Andy Travis, America’s favorite Program Director, in the classic sitcom WKRP in Cincinnati. Gary brought life to the role of a young leader navigating the unpredictable world of a struggling radio station with charm, wit, and authenticity. His natural charisma and comedic instincts helped make WKRP a cultural touchstone and a beloved part of American television history.

Beyond WKRP, Gary received acclaim for his role in Norman Lear’s All That Glitters and made memorable guest appearances on many hit shows, including Murder, She Wrote, F.B.I: The Untold Story, The Young Riders, L.A. Law, and Diagnosis Murder. His television film credits include Melvin Purvis: The Kansas City Massacre, Shell Game, For Lovers Only, and Nashville Grab.

On the big screen, Gary’s range shone through in films such as Hail to the Chief, Some of My Best Friends Are, Troll, and The Last of the Cowboys, where he starred alongside the legendary Henry Fonda. He also appeared in the Oscar-nominated film The Insider, further establishing his reputation as a skilled and versatile actor.

A dedicated stage performer, Gary has starred in more than 100 theatrical productions. He made his Broadway debut in Saturday, Sunday, Monday, directed by Franco Zeffirelli, and went on to take on leading roles in Broadway productions like The Pirates of Penzance (as the Pirate King) and the Broadway revival of Arsenic and Old Lace (as Mortimer). His stage credits also include standout performances in Barnum, Sweet Bird of Youth, The Foreigner, and A Streetcar Named Desire.

His musical theater work has been equally impressive, with standout roles as Billy Flynn in Chicago, Albert Peterson in Bye Bye Birdie, and Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd opposite Ann-Margret in the national tour of The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. Gary’s performance as Harold Hill in The Music Man has become a signature role, earning praise in seven different productions.

Gary’s Off-Broadway and regional theater work includes The Children’s Mass (produced by Sal Mineo), and innovative adaptations such as Sheba (based on Come Back, Little Sheba), Luv, and Windy City (a musical version of The Front Page). In recent years, he’s received acclaim for his work in live radio drama, bringing a fresh energy to a classic medium.

From his unforgettable turn as Andy Travis on WKRP in Cincinnati to his commanding stage presence in theaters across the country, Gary Sandy’s body of work reflects a lifetime devoted to storytelling, craft, and connection with audiences.

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Henry Fonda
• Deborah Parenti
• John Cameron Swayze
• Robert Redford
• Jean Arley
• Joe Manetta
• David Muir
• Alexander Scourby
• Mary Tyler Moore
• Gordon Jump
• Lonnie Anderson
• Howard Hesseman
• Frank Bonners
• Richard Sanders
• Tim Reid
• Jan Smithers
• Kevin Klein
• Anna Margaret
• Shirlee Mae Adams
• Jane Fonda
• Ernest Thompson
• Lois Nettleton
• Chuck McCann
• Norman Lear
• Joe Allen
• Frank Bonner
• Loni Anderson
• Stacy Keach
• Tootsie Bess
• Dolly Parton
• Lesley Visser
• Rick Dees
• Dick Ferguson
• Roy Scheider
• Gene Hackman

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world- class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown’s Audio Architecture is one of the only commercial libraries that is built exclusively for radio spots to provide the right music for radio commercials. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now & Then, Hey, Morton, StudioTexter, The Rooster Show Prep, and AmeriCountry. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: IEX: Boxes and Lines and Molecular Moments.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Instagram: instagram.com/benztownradio

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review! 

EPISODE SUMMARY: TJ is the host of the TJ Show which is syndicated on over 75 stations nationwide. He shares his journey from high school radio fan to successful radio host and more.

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to TJ about:

1. Becoming obsessed with radio while growing up in New Jersey and working at his first station, WFDU.
2. Getting to intern at Z100 in New York right out of high school and what he learned at the biggest CHR station in the U.S.
3. Getting to produce and co-host with Elvis Duran and how his production experience translated to on-air success.
4. How Elvis saved his job, inspired him, and taught him the value of positive relationships in broadcasting.
5. Making the leap to launch his own show in Boston on AMP and what the transition was like.
6. The impact of COVID and remote broadcasting on his life, career, and the radio industry.
7. Finding strength in faith and humor after being laid off.
8. How he built a great team and created his successful syndicated show.
9. His thoughts on the future of radio.

And More!

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: ​​TJ was the kid who walked to school with his headphones plugged into his radio. Having discovered morning talk shows as a 13 year old while growing up in Hillsdale, NJ, he became hooked. In high school, he started working in radio as a volunteer.  He held many positions at his first official radio job including answering phones, producing, and eventually becoming a co-host on Elvis Duran’s nationally syndicated radio show.  TJ began hosting his own morning radio show (The TJ Show) in Boston in early 2013.  TJ is married to his wife, Jess.  They have 3 girls and a Labrador retriever named Luna.

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Howard Stern
• Scott Shannon
• Jim Kerr
• David Brody
• Elvis Duran
• Tom Pullman
• Mark Cuban
• Sharon Dester
• Danielle Monero
• Rick Dees
• Kidd Kraddick
• Bert Weiss
• Elliot
• Tom Joyner
• Roy Laughlin
• Heather Cohen
• Josh Kolodny
• Dan Mason Jr.
• Nate Marino
• Lauren Ray
• Matt Shearer
• Michael Martin
• Steve Salhaney
• Mark Hannon
• Seth Godin
• Lamont and Tonelli
• Charles Steinhauer
• Scotty Meyers
• John Tesh
• Jhani Kaye
• Dick Clark
• Mark and Kim
• Buddy Shula
• JBo Marie
• Kenny O'Boyle
• Heather Connor
• Josh Malone
• Jeff Smulyan
• Rick Cummings

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world- class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown’s Audio Architecture is one of the only commercial libraries that is built exclusively for radio spots to provide the right music for radio commercials. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now & Then, Hey, Morton, StudioTexter, The Rooster Show Prep, and AmeriCountry. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: IEX: Boxes and Lines and Molecular Moments.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Instagram: 

instagram.com/benztownradio

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review! 

EPISODE SUMMARY: David Junk is a music executive who lived in Russia for 15 years working to fight piracy and grow the legitimate music industry there. He is joined by author Fred Bronson who cowrote Rockin' the Kremlin with David.

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to David Junk and Fred Bronson about:

1. Growing up in Ohio during the Cold War and listening to rock radio to distract from fears of nuclear war.
2. Traveling to Germany after the fall of the Berlin Wall to see Pink Floyd and being inspired by the onset of capitalism to move to Russia.
3. Moving to Moscow and gaining the trust of his Russian coworkers while working at a diamond company.
4. Facing investigation by Russian prosecutors for years for a crime he didn’t commit.
5. Getting his start in the Russian music industry where he witnessed rampant piracy and a lack of copyright protection. Going from accountant to CEO of Universal Music in Russia.
6. Discovering and signing Russian acts like t.A.T.u and Alsou and helping them gain global recognition.
7. Helping Alsou place second at Eurovision and tour Russia and America.
8. Introducing Eminem to Russia and his influence on the hip-hop scene there.
9. The current political situation in Russia, including the invasion of Crimea and the war in Ukraine

And More!

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: After the fall of the Soviet Union, David Junk was one of the first idealistic young Americans to move to Russia to live, work and build a cultural bridge between former superpower enemies. He eventually became the first CEO of Universal Music, based in Moscow. For a decade, he promoted international artists in Russia, including such huge names as Elton John, U2, Sting, and Bon Jovi. He introduced hip-hop music to Russian youth. David also discovered and signed multiple Russian artists to Universal, including t.A.T.u, who would become the biggest-selling Russian act in music industry history. David also did some things that no other music executive in the United States has ever done. Music piracy in Russia was rampant, and the market for cheap, counterfeit compact discs was so pervasive that it threatened the legitimate Russian music industry's ability to gain a foothold. So on behalf of Universal's stable of artists and the Russian music industry, he participated in law enforcement raids of pirate factories and testified in court against the criminal gangs who operated them. David has been extensively interviewed about this subject on television, radio, and print and wrote an editorial about it that appeared in the Wall Street Journal. He also wrote about it for the American Chamber of Commerce and submitted written testimony to the US Congress on the topic of piracy and intellectual property rights in Russia.

David is an authority on this topic because of his deep understanding of Russia. He lived and worked there for fifteen years, and raised a family in Moscow. In addition to starting the record label in Moscow, David opened the first showroom in Russia for the iconic American brand Gibson Guitars. David has extensive knowledge of Russian-Ukrainian relations, having opened the first Universal Music office in Kyiv and having developed music reality shows for Ukrainian TV.

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Boris Yeltsin
• Roger Waters
• Mikhail Gorbachev
• Elton John
• Bon Jovi
• Malcolm McLaren
• Julian Lena
• Jimmy Iovine
• Trevor Horn
• Ellen DeGeneres
• Alsou
• Steve Levine
• Simon Napier Bell
• Britney Spears
• Enrique Iglesias
• Julio Iglesias
• Rihanna
• Lear Cohen
• Jay-Z
• Donald Trump
• Edgar Bronfman
• Eminem
• Snoop Dogg
• Dr. Dre

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world- class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown’s Audio Architecture is one of the only commercial libraries that is built exclusively for radio spots to provide the right music for radio commercials. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now & Then, Hey, Morton, StudioTexter, The Rooster Show Prep, and AmeriCountry. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: IEX: Boxes and Lines and Molecular Moments.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Instagram: instagram.com/benztownradio

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review! 

EPISODE SUMMARY: Al Roker is the award-winning weather and feature anchor of The Today show on NBC News as well as a best-selling author, radio host, and Broadway star. Roker reflects on the challenges and excitement of working in broadcasting throughout his legendary career. 

Roker will be among those honored this fall as Giants of Broadcasting by the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation at the 2024 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony on November 12th at Gotham Hall in New York City.

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to Al Roker about:

1. Growing up in Queens with an early fascination with broadcasting 
2. How his stops in Washington, DC, Cleveland, and NYC shaped his experience
3. The importance of being yourself in broadcasting and showing your personality
4. Transitioning from local news to national broadcasting with NBC and The Today Show.
5. Creating Al Roker Entertainment and producing a variety of content across multiple networks and his current animated project
6. The central role of family in his life and how it influences his writing and cooking
7. How he and his wife, Deborah Roberts, support each other's broadcasting careers
8. What it’s like to broadcast major events like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
9. The significance of hard work and his advice for aspiring broadcasters

And More!

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: Al Roker is an institution. As the weatherman on NBC’s TODAY Show and co-anchor of the 3rd Hour of TODAY 3rd Hour of TODAY, presenting universally resonating lifestyle segments, Al has the undivided attention of the nation – over 30 million viewers per week – every weekday morning as America prepares for school and work.

Spanning more than 40 years on TV and 14 Emmy awards, Al conducts interviews with celebrities and newsmakers around the world and does a wide variety of segments on every imaginable subject.  According to a The Hollywood Reporter/Morning Consult Poll (2024), Al is the most trusted morning show anchor in America. You can also catch Al Roker on TODAY.com/allday and on Off The Rails on TODAY Show Radio, Channel 108 on SiriusXM radio.

As an award-winning television producer and CEO of Al Roker Entertainment, Inc. (ARE) Al has executive produced numerous TV programs for network, cable, digital, and streaming channels. Not only will you find an Al Roker-produced TV show on your favorite channel, Al Roker Entertainment also produces trusted social impact video content, commercials, and branded entertainment for a wide array of sponsors and non-profits.

Al is also a prolific author with 13 acclaimed books to his credit – from cookbooks to true life historical narratives, and his book, “You Look So Much Better In Person – True Stories Of Absurdity and Success” is a humorous and highly personal collection of essays based on lessons for living a happy life and achieving success through the power of saying “yes!”“ Al’s mystery novel, “The Morning Show Murders” (Book 1 of his popular Billy Blessing multi-book mystery series with Dick Lochte) was developed into a successful TV mini-series for Hallmark Movies.

Recently, “America’s Weatherman” added his name to the long and notable list of TED speakers when he talked to the TED Countdown Summit in Detroit, Michigan about the knock-on effects of extreme weather due to climate change.

As an avid social media contributor, Al regularly tweets on X @AlRoker, shares photos from his travels (and his amazing cooking) on Instagram, and talks with his audience on Facebook. He also has a book page on Facebook for fans of his writing.

Al lives in New York City with his wife, ABC News correspondent Deborah Roberts, and has three kids.

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Willard Scott
• Merv Griffin
• Dennis Kucinich
• Mike McVay
• Chris Ostrovsky
• Bob Davis
• Frank Field
• Chuck Scarborough
• Sue Simmons
• Jack Cafferty
• Pat Harper
• Marv Albert
• Sue Levine
• Don Pardo
• Bryant Gumbel
• Jane Pauley
• Tom Joyner
• Holly Robinson Peete
• Levar Burton
• Sheryl Lee Ralph
• Courtney Roker Laga
• Nick Roker
• Tom Papa
• Stephen A. Smith
• Wendy McMahan
• Patsy Smullin
• Steve Jones
• Wendy McMahon
• Deborah Roberts
• Lou O'Donnell

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world- class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown’s Audio Architecture is one of the only commercial libraries that is built exclusively for radio spots to provide the right music for radio commercials. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now & Then, Hey, Morton, StudioTexter, The Rooster Show Prep, and AmeriCountry. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: IEX: Boxes and Lines and Molecular Moments.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Instagram: instagram.com/benztownradio

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review! 

EPISODE SUMMARY: Patsy Smullin is the owner and president of California Oregon Broadcasting as well as the host of the successful TV interview series Up Close and Personal. She shares her insights on leadership, family dynamics, philanthropy and the changing media landscape.

Smullin will be among those honored this fall as Giants of Broadcasting by the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation at the 2024 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony on November 12th at Gotham Hall in New York City.

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to Patsy Smullin about:

1. Growing up in Eureka, California and how her the influence of her father, legendary broadcaster Bill Smullin, shaped her career path.
2. Working in just about every facet of cable TV until she began running cable operations throughout Oregon and California
3. The value of every single subscriber and doing whatever it takes to make them happy
4. Her belief in fair, unbiased journalism, and giving her reporters autonomy
5. Joining KOBI and starting her interview series Up Close and Personal where she helped viewers get to know interviewees as peopel
6. Taking over her father’s company and her expectations as his daughter
7. Serving on the NAB and NBC boards
8. importance of community service and philanthropy and the organizations she supports including SMART and Community 101

And More!

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: Patsy Smullin is the owner and President of California Oregon Broadcasting, the longest, continuously operated, independent broadcast organization in the West. Its holdings include five television stations serving California and Oregon, three cable systems and a digital HD video production company.

Over the years, Patsy’s commitment to community is evident every day personally and through her TV stations.  She has consistently given back to the communities her broadcast company serve. She has been an active member of the NBC Affiliate Board, National Association of Broadcasters Board, The World Affairs Council of Oregon, Oregon Children’s Foundation, Southern Oregon University Board and Willamette University Board.

Two of her “hands on” favorites are being a SMART reader and Community 101 supporter, which teach children philanthropy at a really young age. 

She has been recognized with countless awards including the 2007 National Broadcasters Foundation Pioneer Award and the 2008 Oregon Association of Broadcaster’s Tom McCall Award for outstanding service to the state and to the nation and most recently the Governor’s Gold Award for service to Oregon. 

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Hillary Clinton
• Lester Holt
• Jay Leno
• Jeff Zucker
• Walter Cronkite
• Scott Burton
• Bill Smullin
• JFK
• Bibby Kennedy
• Ronald Reagan
• Ted Turner
• John Malone
• Tom Brokaw
• Barbara Bush
• Dick Clark
• Hillary Clinton
• Elizabeth Dole
• Wayne Newton
• Dr. Oz
• Dr. Phil
• Barbara Walters
• Jeff Zucker
• Lester Holt
• Oak Ridge Boys
• Jenna Bush
• Curtis LeGeyt
• Brandon Tartikoff
• Laura Bush
• Al Roker
• Mike McVay
• Steve Jones
• Rupert Murdoch
• Ted Turner

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world- class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown’s Audio Architecture is one of the only commercial libraries that is built exclusively for radio spots to provide the right music for radio commercials. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now & Then, Hey, Morton, StudioTexter, The Rooster Show Prep, and AmeriCountry. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: IEX: Boxes and Lines and Molecular Moments.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Instagram: instagram.com/benztownradio

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review! 

EPISODE SUMMARY: Mike McVay is a 40+ year radio veteran with expertise spanning content creation broadcasting, network syndication, talent coaching, artist development, and media strategy design. He has held numerous roles including EVP of Cumulus and Westwood One and is the President of McVay Media Consulting. McVay shares the story of his legendary career. 

McVay will be among those honored this fall as Giants of Broadcasting by the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation at the 2024 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony on November 12th at Gotham Hall in New York City.

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to Mike McVay about:

1. Growing up outside of Pittsburgh in a railroad family and deciding to do radio from an early age
2. Getting his first gig at WHJB at 15 then dropping out of college and moving to West Virginia to become a program director
3. His desire for career growth and to control his own destiny and how that attracted him to programming
4. Jumping around to several cities and stations before landing in LA where he was surrounded by legendary air talent whom he learned from
5. Bouncing around more and becoming a station manager and GM
6. Having a supportive wife and family who allowed them to move around but also supported him and founded McVay Media with him along with Charlie Cook
7. The explosive success of McVay Media and recruiting top consultants to handle over 200 stations eventually growing to over 25 employees worldwide
8. Buying his first radio station and the stress of owning multiple stations
9. Joining Cumulus Media and Westwood One as EVP of Content and Programming and advising over 500 stations
10. How he reacted to management shakeups, the evolution of Cumulus, and stepping away to focus back on McVay Media which became a family affair
11. The many industry organizations he is a part of, including the Country Radio Broadcasters Board, Alliance for Women in Media Board, and the Radio Committee for St. Jude's Children's Hospital and Research Center
12. The importance of professionalism, personal happiness, and giving back, and being a good person

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: Mike McVay is President of McVay Media Consulting. Working globally as a full-service consultant in the areas of Content Creation, Program Consultation, Syndication, Digital Delivery, Production & Imaging, Podcasting, Talent Coaching, and Media Training. He was most recently the Executive Vice President of Content and Programming for Cumulus Media and Westwood One.

McVay is a 40+ year programmer with national and local management, ownership, sales, major market programming, and major market on-air experience. Mike has owned and operated radio stations in multiple markets. He is a partner in Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Network with experience in curating Podcasts for Westwood One, NatGeo and Disney+. He has also developed and launched several highly successful nationally syndicated programs.

He is a 2021 Inductee to the West Virginia Broadcasters Hall of Fame. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation, The Country Radio Broadcasters, the Radio Committee for St. Jude Children’s Hospital and Research Center, and is a voting member of the Country Music Association as well as The Academy of Country Music.

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Donny Osmund
• John Sally
• Jim Brickman
• Doug Stefan
• Mark McGrath
• Stephen A Smith
• Soledad O’Brien
• Jean Chatsky
• Cowboy Phil
• Ed Saloman
• Bob Pittman
• John Rook
• Charlie Cook
• Jimmy Fox
• Rich Brother Robin
• Jack Armstrong
• Don Steele
• Machine Gun Kelly
• Nancy Plum
• Joe Nasty
• Dave Sebastian
• Charlie Tuna
• Barbara Streisand
• Gene Simmons
• Brooke Shields
• Stephen Bishop
• George Burns
• George Francis
• Tom Wilson
• Bernie Ditman
• Doris McVay
• Jim and Tom Imbrescia
• Larry Robinson
• Larry Pollack
• Terry Jacobs
• Lou Dickey
• John Pinch
• Jim West
• George and Reg
• Jay Albright
• Bob Moody
• Jerry King
• Harv Blaine
• Chris Elliott
• Val Garis
• Greg Galepsy
• Jan Jeffries
• Dwight Douglas
• Holland Cook
• Jim Glass
• Bob McNeil
• Daniel Anstandig
• Sue Wilson
• Jim Long
• David Rogerson
• Chris Burns
• Steve Smith
• Barry Gerber
• Chesley Maddox
• Kent Burkhardt
• Lee Abrams
• Greg Gillespie
• Dave Lang
• John Tesh
• Tom Pullman
• Justin Chase
• Greg Strassel
• Mary Berner
• Bob Walker
• Dave Milner
• Brian Phillips
• Ryan Kershner
• Jai Kershner
• Nikki Lanigan
• Jimmy Lanigan
• Bing Crosby
• Walter Cronkite
• Al Roker
• Christine Baranski
• Steve Jones
• Chris Forgy
• Jason Bailey

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world- class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown’s Audio Architecture is one of the only commercial libraries that is built exclusively for radio spots to provide the right music for radio commercials. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now & Then, Hey, Morton, StudioTexter, The Rooster Show Prep, and AmeriCountry. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: IEX: Boxes and Lines and Molecular Moments.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Instagram: 

instagram.com/benztownradio

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review! 

EPISODE SUMMARY: Steve Jones is the multi-award-winning President and CEO of Skyview Media. He shares his lifelong passion for news and his journey to become a Giant of Broadcasting.

Jones will be among those honored this fall as Giants of Broadcasting by the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation at the 2024 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony on November 12th at Gotham Hall in New York City.

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to Steve Jones about:

1. Growing up in Flushing, Queens, and getting involved in journalism and true crime at a young age while listening to police scanners
2. Calling nightclubs as an intern at WPIX and doing mornings at WLIR after several station flips
3. Joining ABC radio, the challenges of working at a national news network, and the acquisition of ABC by Disney
4. The transition from ABC News to Skyview Networks
5. Navigating the changing news industry
6. The importance of supporting independent content creators
7. The Impact of journalism in today's media landscape
8. The value of mentors and the life-changing work of the Broadcasters Foundation of America

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: As President and Chief Executive Officer of Skyview Networks, Steve Jones is responsible with leading Skyview’s growth as a sales and technology company serving the broadcast radio and digital audio industries. Since joining Skyview Networks in April 2019.  Jones has led Skyview’s expansion from 5,000 radio station relationships to more than 12,500.  These new business relationships range across news, weather, sports and music programming heard by millions of listeners who are prized by America’s top advertisers.

Previously, at The Walt Disney Company, Jones served as Vice President and General Manager for ABC Radio leading strategic planning, business development, programming and operations for ABC-branded audio content—covering news, entertainment, lifestyle and sports. During this period, ABC News Radio received dozens of awards for excellence in journalism and was the most listened to commercial radio service in America. With Jones in this role, Disney/ABC entered into a partnership with Skyview Networks in 2014 to create a stand-alone audio business for ABC News.

Jones first joined ABC News as a writer in 1986 and was an early digital leader as Vice President of Programming and Operations for ABCNEWS.com, where he oversaw all content and production. During this time, Jones launched the first regularly scheduled webcast by a network, oversaw the launch of interactive web programming and co-produced ABC’s online millennium coverage along with other special event programming. Under Jones’ leadership, the ABCNEWS.com team won multiple awards including an Edward R. Murrow Award for “Best Network News” website and a Peabody Award for ABCNEWS.com’s coverage of the 2001 terror attacks. Before his many roles inside ABC, Jones also worked as a radio newscaster, disc jockey, and television reporter.

Throughout his career, Jones has been honored with multiple awards and recognized for his accomplishments. As a writer and producer for ABC News, his work won two Writers Guild of America (WGA) Awards and an Overseas Press Club Award. Additionally, he has been included on Radio Ink’s annual “40 Most Powerful” broadcast executives list (2017, 2018, 2023), named “News Executive of the Year” twice by Radio & Records (2005, 2007), received the Ward L. Quaal Leadership Award from the Broadcasters Foundation of America (2017) and the First Amendment Service Award from the Radio Television News Directors Foundation (2017).

Jones is a 2010 Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism Fellow in the Sulzberger Executive Leadership Program and often speaks about media strategy for the audio business. He is on the Board of Directors for the Broadcasters Foundation of America and is on the Board of Trustees at Adelphi University, from which he possesses an undergraduate degree.

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Andrew Kalb
• Peter Jennings
• Lacey Peterson
• John Ogle
• Alex Hayes
• Hilly Crystal
• Mark Simone
• Rush Limbaugh
• Sean Hannity
• Alan Combs
• Ray White
• Dennis McNamara
• Jim Kerr
• Meg Griffin
• Vin Scelsa
• Dennis McNamara
• Joan Jett
• Billy Idol
• Kurt Loder
• Ben Manila
• Larry the Duck
• Seymour Stein
• Howard Stern
• Nancy Abramson
• Bob Waugh
• Donna Donna
• Mel Karmazin
• Fareed Suleiman
• Jay Thomas
• Robin Williams
• Chip Cipolla
• Robin Quivers
• Gary Delabate
• Pat Evans
• Tim McCarthy
• Scott Herman
• Merrilee Cox

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world- class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown’s Audio Architecture is one of the only commercial libraries that is built exclusively for radio spots to provide the right music for radio commercials. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now & Then, Hey, Morton, StudioTexter, The Rooster Show Prep, and AmeriCountry. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: IEX: Boxes and Lines and Molecular Moments.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Instagram: 

instagram.com/benztownradio

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review! 

EPISODE SUMMARY: Curtis LeGeyt is the president and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters. He shares how his background in business, politics and law has shaped his career in broadcasting and discusses the challenges and opportunities broadcasters face in Washington, D.C.

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to Curtis LeGeyt about:

1. How his passion for journalism, public service and politics led him to Cornell University Law School and Capitol Hill
2. His experience working on the Obama Campaign and the Senate Judiciary Committee
3. The value of over-preparation and confidence in your work
4. Becoming President and CEO of NAB
5. NAB's advocacy efforts, including coordinating with local stations, policymakers and the public to ensure the availability and quality of broadcast programming
6. The challenges and rewards of bipartisan collaboration
7. The unique environment of Washington, D.C.
8. His advice for young people interested in a career in broadcasting and his thoughts on the future

And more!

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: 
Curtis LeGeyt is the president and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters. In this role, he serves as the chief advocate for America’s free, local television and radio stations and their network partners. He previously served as the chief operating officer of the association before assuming his current role in January 2022. LeGeyt also served as the executive vice president, Government Relations, from 2015-2020.

As president and CEO, LeGeyt is leading NAB’s charge for policies and innovations that enable the availability of high-quality local broadcast programming to all consumers. He and his team successfully advocate for policies that level the playing field between local stations and Big Tech companies, prevent harmful new regulations that hinder broadcasters’ ability to serve their communities, and promote the vital and trusted local journalism broadcasters provide.

LeGeyt has been featured in Washingtonian magazine as one of Washington, D.C.’s 500 most influential people, named “Radio Executive of the Year” by Radio Ink magazine and as a top lobbyist by The Hill newspaper. LeGeyt is also a member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Association Committee of 100, which brings together trade association CEOs to build partnerships and discuss issues facing their industries.

Prior to joining NAB in 2011, LeGeyt served as the senior counsel to then-Senate Judiciary Chairman Patrick Leahy (VT), advising the chairman and committee on intellectual property, antitrust and First Amendment issues. Previously, LeGeyt practiced law at Howrey LLP, where he focused on antitrust litigation and merger reviews. LeGeyt began his career as a management consultant for Putnam Associates and worked on the staff of the 2008 Obama for America presidential campaign.

LeGeyt serves on the boards of directors of the NAB Leadership Foundation, the Broadcasters Foundation of America and Tracy’s Kids, a nonprofit helping children with cancer.

He also serves on the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention’s Executive Committee, and is an alumnus of Leadership Music, a Nashville-based program that fosters community and collaboration among music industry leaders.

LeGeyt received his J.D. from Cornell University Law School, and his B.A. from Providence College in quantitative economics where he serves on its National Board of Overseers. He resides in Washington, D.C., with his wife Kacey and their three children.

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Barack Obama
• Bob Pittman
• Ted Cruz
• Ed Markey
• Gordon Smith
• Patrick Leahy
• Bernie Sanders
• Mike Johnson
• Scott McCarthy
• Tim McCarthy

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world-class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles, New York, London and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Daily Dees Show, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now, AudioLogger, Audio Architecture, Radio Merch Shop, The Rooster Show Prep, AmeriCountry, and Benztown Swag Bank. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: The Making of: A National Geographic Podcast, Run It Again, Hot Chicken and Cage-Free Conversation with Byron Kennedy, and Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review! 

EPISODE SUMMARY: Johnjay Van Es is a radio host who alongside his partner Rich airs his show on over 20 stations across the country. He is also devoted to the community helping children in foster care and rescue animals through the LoveUp and LovePup foundations. He shares his journey from being a passionate radio enthusiast to becoming a successful radio host.
 

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to Johnjay Van Es about:

1. Growing up in Arizona and Mexico and his early passion for radio
2. His love for improv and comedy, and joining the Groundlings in L.A.
3. Challenges he’s faced in the workplace and how he manages creative control of the show
4. How his show took off following a shoutout from Rod Stewart
5. Forming a strong partnership with cohost, Rich, and how they worked through conflicts
6. How taking risks and following passion can lead to unexpected opportunities
7. His unique morning routine that involves a trampoline
8. Unforgettable on-air moments from his career
9. His involvement in the Love Up and Love Pup foundations
10.  And more!

And more!

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: 
As a child, Johnjay Van Es always dreamed of being on the radio. He applied for an internship at 91X in San Diego in 1990 and eventually started working in sales for a number of radio stations, but he never let go of his lifelong dream to be on the air.It wasn’t until 1996, after training with the LA-based improv troupe The Groundlings that he would get his first on-air job hosting a morning show on WKRQ in Cincinnati. After just three months on the air, he won the “Best of Cincinnati” award. After years of dominating the market in Cincinnati, Johnjay moved on to Houston, Texas and made his mark in the Country format.

A chance meeting in New Orleans found Rich teaming up with Johnjay. The beginning of The Johnjay and Rich era began in 2001 with their first show airing on KRQQ in Tucson. In 2006, the program moved to KISS-FM in Phoenix, Ariz., and was syndicated in select markets nationwide.

In 2014, the program joined Premiere Networks lineup of nationally syndicated programs. Airing Monday through Friday from 5 to 10 a.m. MT, The Johnjay & Rich Show is a non-stop blend of pop culture, news and events, welcoming a wide range of music artists, news makers and celebrities. Joined on-air by Kyle and Suzette, the show is a special brand of “reality radio,” in which listeners become an engaged and integral part of the program by interacting with the crew via all forms of social media -Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, Facebook, email and text messaging.The Johnjay & Rich Show is also available on iHeartRadio, iHeartMedia's free all-in-one streaming music and live radio service, and www.johnjayandrich.com.

In addition to hosting their daily radio program, Johnjay and Rich remain steadfastly connected to the community via the Johnjay and Rich #LoveUp Foundation, a non-profit organization that strives to improve the quality of life for the most vulnerable children in our communities, with a primary focus on children living in the foster care system. The foundation’s annual Christmas Wish program provides thousands of dollars’ worth of gifts to deserving families in need during the holiday season. Johnjay and Rich also raised funds for #LoveUp’s sister foundation, #LovePup, by hosting adoption and fundraising events. To date, more than 500 rescue dogs have found forever homes through #LovePup’s ongoing efforts.In addition to serving children and pets, the radio hosts raise thousands of dollars for other worthy causes including disaster relief efforts nationwide.

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Rich Berra
• Tracy Johnson
• Jeff and Jer
• Laura Kane
• Little Tommy
• Mike Halloran
• Kurt Warner
• Brenda Warner
• Brian Douglas
• Scott Shannon
• Scott Fisher
• Tim Russert
• Tony Robbins
• Fred Lewis
• Steve Smith
• John Peak
• Mark Costa
• Jimmy Steele
• Smokey Rivers
• Woody
• Bill Claproth
• Mike Marino
• Tommy Kramer
• Dennis Clark
• Bob Pittman
• Rich Bresler
• Elijah Warner
• Larry Fitzgerald
• Jordan Sparks
• Bruce Walton
• Fred Lewis
• Steve Smith
• Kimberly Hunt
• Jim Bryant
• Von Freeman
• Steve West
• Oz
• Larry Fitzgerald

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world-class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles, New York, London and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Daily Dees Show, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now, AudioLogger, Audio Architecture, Radio Merch Shop, The Rooster Show Prep, AmeriCountry, and Benztown Swag Bank. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: The Making of: A National Geographic Podcast, Run It Again, Hot Chicken and Cage-Free Conversation with Byron Kennedy, and Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Instagram: instagram.com/benztownradio

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review!