Two new additions have been made to iHeart Media’s WUBL 94.9 The Bull staff.
The station has a new program director: Ashley Layfield. She comes from WFUS, the co-owned country station in Tampa, where she’s Director of Programming and Brand Strategy. Before that, she worked at WWKA, the Cox-owned country station in Orlando, and Cox’s CHR station WAPE in Jacksonville.
“Atlanta is one of the most dynamic and influential country radio markets in the nation, and I’m honored to join the incredible team at 94.9 The Bull,” said Layfield. “The station has a strong legacy with deep community roots, and I’m excited to build on that foundation, connect with the listeners, and help drive the next chapter of growth and success for years to come.”
Her former station, WFUS, ranked 11th in the May radio ratings, up from 8th place the previous month. It was the top country station in Tampa over Beasley Media’s WQYK. WUBL, the station she will now be programming, is 10th in the Atlanta ratings.
“Ashley is one of the most respected programming leaders in our industry,” said iHeart Media EVP/Programming Jill Strada, in a statement. “Her vision, leadership, and deep understanding of the Country music audience will help take 94.9 The Bull to the next level.”
Layfield has a Large Market Station of the Year honor from the Academy of Country Music, and is also a member of the Alliance for Women in Media. The University of North Florida grad also hosts a podcast called Sunny Side with Ashley in Florida. She will continue to program WFUS in addition to The Bull.
The Bull also welcomes Corey Calhoun to its on-air lineup. He’s a former music director/evening host at iHeart co-owned WMZQ in Washington, D.C. He’s had programming and on-air stints in the Louisville, Lexington, and Brunswick markets.
This marks a return to the Atlanta market for Calhoun. The Kennesaw State University grad started as an intern at WWWQ, Q99.7.
“I started my radio career in Atlanta, so the opportunity to return with 94.9 The Bull truly feels like a full-circle moment,” said Calhoun. He will take over the 3-7 pm drive, sandwiched between Angie Ward and “Wayne and Tay”.
“Corey’s experience across multiple markets, combined with his passion for Country music and audience engagement, makes him a perfect fit for afternoons on 94.9 the Bull,” said Strada. “Together, Corey and Ashley represent the future of this brand, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to Atlanta.”
Image credits: iHeart Media
