Connoisseur Media's country station 98.7 The Bull (KUPL) in Portland, Oregon, will launch a new locally focused weekday morning show on Tuesday, January 20, featuring hosts Jeff “JR” Ramsey, Jake Byron, and Mallory Santic. The program replaces the syndicated “The Bobby Bones Show” and emphasizes live, local programming to strengthen community ties.
Station executives highlight the lineup as key to reflecting Portland's unique character and boosting engagement in an era when local connection is vital for radio's success. “We believe that for radio to thrive in 2026, we have to be a major part of our communities,” said Connoisseur SVP of Programming Keith Dakin. “Having a strong morning show like this is a giant piece of the puzzle.”
Portland Operations Manager Ross MacLeod praised the team: “When you can take two people who grew up here and love 98.7 The Bull and add another great radio talent, you have the recipe for the perfect morning show for country fans in Portland.”
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| JR Ramsey |
Byron, returning to the station and the morning slot after more than a decade there earlier in his career (and a recent exit last July), called it a “personal and professional homecoming.”
“Connoisseur Media is making possible what I only dared to dream; a return to the daypart I called home for 15 years,” he said. “I am so proud and excited to be part of 98.7 The Bull once again.”
Santic, a social media influencer, former “Love Island” contestant, and country music enthusiast, rounds out the trio with a digital-first perspective. “I’m so excited to be part of launching a new morning show on 98.7 The Bull,” she said. “I love Portland, I love country music, and I can’t wait to start mornings with listeners and connect with the city we call home.”
The shift aligns with Connoisseur Media's broader push for localized content following its 2025 acquisition of Alpha Media's Portland cluster.