Programmer Guy Zapoleon Decides On Semi-Retirement

Guy Zapoleon

Veteran programmer Guy Zapoleon has announced his semi-retirement as Senior VP of Programming, Research and Strategy at iHeartMedia after a nine-year run.

He’ll remain with the company as a Senior Advisor.

Zapoleon — regarded as one of the preeminent radio programmers in the business — joined then Clear Channel as VP/Digital Music Programming in 2011, leaving the consulting firm Zapoleon Media Strategies he founded.

Zapoleon began his career in Los Angeles at Oldies KRTH as the station’s first Music Director. His next steps included programming stations, including KRQQ in Tucson and B94 in Pittsburgh. He then joined Nationwide Communications at KZZP in Phoenix and soon became the National Program Director. Zapoleon was also responsible for creating America’s first Hot AC at KHMX (Mix 96.5) Houston. In 1992, he founded Zapoleon Media Strategies and quickly became one of the most respected names in consulting, helping to launch great radio stations, such as WKTU in New York.

iHeartMedia Chief Programming Officer and President, National Programing Group Tom Poleman told the company’s staff, “After 45 years of programming brilliance, Guy Zapoleon, our SVP/Programming Research & Strategy, has decided to retire. As most of you know, Guy is a trailblazer — from programming successful Top 40 radio stations to creating the first-ever Hot AC station in the U.S. helping to launch a long list of incredible brands, including WKTU, and co-creating HitPredictor. It’s safe to say that Guy is one of the most influential programmers of all time, having left his mark on some of the greatest stations in the world. He’s been a fantastic mentor and friend to so many of us. And for that we’re forever thankful.”

He continued, “While we’re sad that Guy is leaving us, we’re very happy that he’s agreed to stay on with iHeart as a consultant and will be working on specific projects as determined by Brad and me. That said, we want him to enjoy as much of his retirement as he can — so please go through us on any business matters. And I know you’ll all join me in thanking GUY for his significant contributions to our company and to our team over the last several years.”