WJR, Detroit Names Ryan Ermanni Afternoon Host
Cumulus Media’s news/talk WJR, Detroit appoints Ryan Ermanni host of the 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm show, effective today (7/7). Ermanni is well known in the Detroit market as co-host of “The Nine” on WJBK-TV FOX 2 Detroit where he served for more than 20 years. Cumulus Detroit/Ann Arbor regional VP and market
manager Steve Finateri says, “Ryan Ermanni is not only a seasoned broadcaster with deep roots in Detroit media, he’s also a longtime fan of WJR. His passion for Detroit, his engaging on-air presence, and his respect for what WJR represents make him a perfect fit for our team.” Ermanni comments, “I am so honored to be a part of the WJR daily lineup. I’ve always considered myself just a regular guy from the neighborhood who happens to have a really cool job. The WJR call letters mean something to me, as they do for many people who have grown up in our city and our state. I hope to build the same trust and connection here on WJR as I did at FOX 2. I’m not your typical newsman. I wear my personality on my sleeve, and I react to stories the way someone might if they were sitting at home or in their car. We joke that I’m a “man of the people” — and honestly, I take that as the highest compliment. What you see is what you get. So, if you spot me around town, don’t be shy – come say hello.”
operations via a local management agreement, though a format change it in the works. Big Toe Media’s president and director of sales Dave Greene tells FOX 2, “I was attempting to sell it on Dave Zobrist’s behalf and got very close with one person and had several others interested. When the strong lead didn’t work out, we were able to work out a very favorable deal for both sides.” Regarding the format, Geene says, “The idea of one singular topic for content is outdated. We will talk about what St. Louis talks about, which includes plenty of sports but also local news, culture, food, business, events and more.” FOX 2 notes that Greene is “closely involved with the leadership team” of Sports Hub STL, a digital sports network producing content from local personalities, most of whom have worked in St. Louis sports radio at some point over the years.