Phoenix Radio: Country KMLE Debuts New Morning Show

Niko Petrou

Less than a year ago KMLE 107.9 FM radio personalities Chris and Nina were up for an Academy of Country Music Award.

But 2018 brought major changes, according to azcentral.com. The old team was disbanded and on Monday, Feb. 26, the station unveiled "The Breakfast Buzz with Nina and Niko," a new morning show.

Nina Espero and producer Badger Gabe are still on board, along with newcomer Niko Petrou. Chris Matthews announced his departure in January, citing that he wanted to spend more time with family.

Petrou is new to the Phoenix market. He left Top 40 station WBMP 92.3 in New York in July. Prior to that, he spent eight years at another Top 40 station in New York, WHTZ (Z100).

On Monday, listeners got to hear more about him: He's spent 20 years in radio and also worked at a country bar in New York City. He is friends with Espero's spouse and is staying with his on-air partner and her husband while he looks for a house for his family. He landed the job after a nationwide search.

KMLE 107.9 FM (100 Kw) Red=Local Coverage Area

“Niko brings incredible talent and passion for the industry to KMLE, along with his love for country music,” said Dave Pugh, Senior Vice President and Market Manager, Entercom Phoenix. “We are looking forward to seeing him and Nina D. elevate mornings in Phoenix with their combined energy and drive.”

“After almost 20 years in the radio industry, I’m looking forward to taking on the challenge of mornings,” said Niko. “Given the opportunity to work with such a legendary team and station, I’m excited to bring what I have to offer to Phoenix. A huge thanks to Tim Richards, Dave Pugh, Mike Moore, Chris Oliviero and Pat Paxton for the confidence in me. Nina D. and I are going to have a blast waking up the KMLE Nation.”

In the Nielsen ratings for January, KMLE finished at No. 8 in the market. Country competitor KNIX 102.5 FM is ranked third for the same period.