Houston Radio: Gallant, Blank Out At ESPN KFNC

Sports radio KFNC 97.5 FM, known as ESPN 97.5 and operated by Gow Media, hasa announced the departure of two longtime talk show hosts: Paul Gallant and Joel Blank. 

The moves were attributed to budget cuts amid ongoing challenges in the radio industry, particularly in 2025. Both hosts confirmed the news via social media, expressing appreciation for their time at the station but noting the financial pressures behind the decisions.

Paul Gallant: A veteran Houston sports radio personality, Gallant had been with KFNC since early 2022, initially co-hosting mornings with Vanessa Richardson before moving to middays. In 2024, he partnered with Joe George for the "Gallant & George" show (noon-3 p.m. CT). His style was known for its candid, youthful edge, blending insider knowledge of Houston teams like the Texans, Astros, and Rockets with entertaining banter. Prior to KFNC, Gallant had a long tenure at rival station SportsRadio 610 (KILT-AM) from 2011 to 2019, where he hosted nights and mornings before being let go in a previous round of changes. He also launched a popular podcast, Gallant Says, after his 2019 exit.

Joel Blank: Blank served as a co-host on the afternoon drive show (3-7 p.m. CT) alongside Jeremy Branham. He had been a fixture at ESPN 97.5 for several years, contributing to the station's coverage of local sports and engaging listeners with his analytical takes. Blank's departure leaves a gap in the afternoons, where his partnership with Branham had built a steady following.

The station wasted no time adjusting its schedule:  Gallant's midday slot (noon-3 p.m.) is now filled by ESPN Radio's syndicated The Rich Eisen Show.  For afternoons, Joe George (formerly Gallant's co-host and the station's assistant program director) has joined Jeremy Branham to replace Blank. George previously hosted evenings with Last Call.