Columbus OH Radio: C-C-Changes At 97.1 The Fan

WBNS-FM 97.1 The Fan is undergoing a significant restructuring of its programming lineup, with gradual announcements revealing the end of two flagship shows and new roles for key hosts. 

The Monday and Tuesday changes, include the termination of the popular “Common Man & T-Bone” show after 12 years and the conclusion of “Morning Juice,” sparking widespread reactions among fans, particularly on Reddit. 

“Common Man & T-Bone” Ending:  Monday, during their 3–6 p.m. broadcast, hosts Mike Ricordati (Common Man) and Jonathan Smith (T-Bone) revealed that their show, a staple of The Fan’s afternoon drive, would conclude on April 30, 2025, after a 12-year run. They described the decision as a “split-up” but emphasized that both would remain with the station in new capacities.

Ricordati and Smith on Tuesday promised to share details about their next roles, though specifics were not disclosed. Speculation among fans suggests one or both might move to different time slots or digital formats, given The Fan’s push toward online content.

Launched in 2013, “Common Man & T-Bone” became a beloved program for its irreverent humor, local sports commentary, and chemistry between Ricordati, a Columbus radio veteran, and Smith, known for his witty banter. The show’s 3–6 p.m. Monday–Friday slot captured the after-work audience, focusing heavily on Ohio State Buckeyes, Columbus Blue Jackets, and NFL coverage.

“Morning Juice” Concluding Announcement: On Tuesday, during the 6–9 a.m. “Morning Juice” broadcast, hosts Brandon Beam and Bobby Carpenter, a former Ohio State linebacker and NFL player, confirmed their show would end on May 12, 2025. 

Beam addressed listeners directly, stating, “This show as you know it is going away. I want everybody to know, this is not a Brandon decision, this is not a Bobby decision,” indicating the move anyways, the decision was driven by owner Tegna corporate or external pressures.

Beam announced he would transition to hosting The Buckeye Show, an evening program focused on Ohio State sports, while Carpenter would join a new digital morning show airing from 6–8 a.m., likely a podcast or streaming format to align with modern listening trends.

“Morning Juice” has been a morning staple, blending sports analysis with local flavor, featuring Carpenter’s insider perspective as a former Buckeye and NFL player and Beam’s engaging hosting style. Its end marks a shift toward specialized content, reflecting industry trends toward digital platforms.