Milwaukee Radio: Longtime WLUM Staffer Confirms He's Out

John Schroeder, a longtime on-air personality at WLUM-FM (102.1), Milwaukee’s alternative-rock station, has confirmed his departure after nearly 19 years with the station. 

John Schroeder

His exit marks him as the third on-air host let go last week by the Milwaukee Radio Alliance, the company overseeing WLUM and several other local stations. Schroeder shared the news with his followers in an emotional Facebook post Monday, writing, “Heartbroken to share the news that I am no longer with FM 102/1 after 18 years and 7 months. I was let go late last week along with 3 other colleagues who are friends at the Milwaukee Radio Alliance in a cost savings move (not performance-based).” 

The Milwaukee Radio Alliance, which operates WLUM-FM (102.1), WLDB-FM (93.3), WZTI-AM (1290, known as Fonz MKE), and Froggy MKE, has remained silent on the matter, offering no response to inquiries. 

Joining Schroeder in confirming their departures are two other prominent voices from the Milwaukee Radio Alliance family: Jon Adler, who hosted mornings on WLUM, and Melissa Jordan, the midday host on WLDB. Adler and Jordan’s exits further underscore the scope of the recent staff reductions, affecting multiple stations under the alliance’s umbrella. While the specific reasons beyond “cost savings” remain unclear, the timing suggests a strategic downsizing effort as the company navigates an evolving media landscape where traditional radio faces competition from digital platforms and shifting advertising revenues.

Schroeder’s tenure at WLUM was marked by a dual role that showcased his versatility. From 2007 to 2018, he served as the Milwaukee Radio Alliance’s promotions director while maintaining his on-air presence, a gig that made him a familiar and beloved figure to listeners of FM 102/1. His deep connection to the station and its audience was evident in his heartfelt farewell, reflecting nearly two decades of dedication. Since 2023, Schroeder has also held the position of entertainment and marketing manager at the Wisconsin Center District, a role he continues to occupy, providing him a professional lifeline amid this unexpected career shift.

The departures of Schroeder, Adler, and Jordan leave a void at their respective stations, raising questions about the future direction of Milwaukee Radio Alliance’s programming.