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This week, we’re bringing you a fan-favorite replay while Chuck recovers from a tragic (but honestly, kind of hilarious) injury—courtesy of his beloved best friend, Prince. Yes, his dog’s leash somehow got the best of his right thumb… and, of course, he’s right-handed. Meanwhile, Mandee is off on a very important special assignment (we’re keeping it mysterious).

But don’t worry—we’ll be back next week with a brand-new interview! In the meantime, enjoy this throwback conversation with our longtime friend and former colleague, Kenny Smith. We chat about his broadcast career, share behind-the-scenes stories, and reminisce about the good old days in radio.

Hit play, enjoy the nostalgia, and we’ll catch you next week—hopefully with all thumbs intact! 🎙️🐾✨

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This week on The Unknown Morning Show, Trapper John Morris—aka “Trapper” from SiriusXM’s The Highway & Y2Kountry—joins Chuck McKinley and Mandee Montana for an inside look at the world of country radio.

With 38 years in the industry, Trapper shares his journey from college radio at UNT to programming top country stations across Waco, Tyler, Memphis, New Orleans, Dallas, and Nashville. We dive into how country radio discovers new talent, the data behind picking hit songs, and what it takes to make it on The Highway.

From working alongside legends to programming today’s hottest country hits, Trapper’s insights are a must-listen for country music fans, artists, and radio lovers alike!

🎧 Tune in now for an entertaining and informative conversation!

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In this episode of The Unknown Morning Show, hosts Chuck McKinley and Mandee Montana sit down with Michael Storm to talk all things radio—past, present, and future! They his career and time as an East Texas morning radio personality and programmer. Storm is back on the airwaves with 95.1 Great FM, bringing a fresh yet familiar sound to East Texas.

From his days at Mix 107.3, Star 105.9, and Z100, to his latest venture with Storm Broadcasting, Michael Storm has left his mark on the industry. Tune in as we dive into his journey, the vision behind Great FM, and what this means for radio fans in East Texas.

🎙️ Stream 95.1 Great FM live at GreatFM.com

📱 Follow them on social media @greatfmradio

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In this episode of The Unknown Morning Show, Chuck McKinley and Mandee Montana sit down with Jared Jones, a rising star in sports broadcasting. Jared’s journey started as the Sports Director for Tyler Junior College’s The Drumbeat and has taken him all the way to running the Antler Sports Network, where he travels the Southwest to stream live athletics. As the current Broadcast Director for UT Tyler’s Patriot Talon, Jared shares his passion for journalism, the behind-the-scenes of sports coverage, and the grind of building an independent media brand. From his early days interning at 92.1 FM The Team to winning an award for Best Sports Story from the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association, Jared’s story is one of dedication, hustle, and a love for the game—both on and off the field.

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In this episode of The Unknown Morning Show, Chuck and Mandee sit down with the legendary Scott Gaines to talk about his incredible 38-year career in radio. From major market broadcasting to syndication and producing projects for a Nashville record label, Scott shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and the valuable lessons he’s learned along the way. We also had a blast chatting with his son, Landry, at the end of the episode—don’t miss his special appearance!

📧 Guest Contact: Scott Gaines | [email protected]

📱 Socials: Facebook: Scott Gaines Radio | Instagram: @scottgainesradio | LinkedIn: Scott Gaine

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In this episode of The Unknown Morning Show, Chuck and Mandee sit down with the legendary Shawn Knight—a radio veteran with over 20 years of experience, a podcaster, voice actor, and an online student finishing his degree at Morehouse College. Shawn shares his journey from hosting morning radio to embracing new opportunities in media and education. They discuss the challenges of reinvention, the power of motivational storytelling, and the exciting future of The Shawn Knight Show Podcast.

With his signature humor and openness, Shawn gives us a behind-the-scenes look at his career, his passion for broadcasting, and what’s next in his journey. Plus, plenty of laughs and nostalgia along the way!

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In this inspiring episode of The Unknown Morning Show, Chuck and Mandee sit down with their friend and former broadcaster, Rhonda Parsons. From her early days growing up in Granada Hills, California, to her move to Tyler, Texas, Rhonda’s life has been filled with twists, turns, and an unwavering commitment to her faith and personal growth.

Rhonda shares her journey into radio broadcasting at just 15 years old, her career highlights at KVNE and Sunny 106.5, and her courageous battle with colon cancer in 2011. She also opens up about her entrepreneurial mindset, passion for helping others, and creative pursuits in songwriting and acting. With her motto, “Always be your B.E.S.T.,” Rhonda’s story is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of faith.

Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation filled with memories, inspiration, and plenty of wisdom for anyone navigating their own journey of growth and self-discovery.

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Join Chuck and Mandee on the latest episode of the Unknown Morning Show as they bring you a flavorful conversation with special guest Blu Monday-Daniels! In this engaging interview, Blu takes listeners on a mouthwatering journey through the renowned CASI Chili Cook Offs, from the heart of East Texas all the way to the iconic chili ghost town of Terlingua. 

Tune in as they explore the rich traditions, fiery recipes, and local anecdotes that give each chili a unique East Texas flavor. Whether you’re a chili aficionado or curious about cook-off entertainment, this episode serves up an exciting blend of storytelling, humor, and culinary insights that will leave you craving more!

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In this episode of The Unknown Morning Show, Chuck and Mandee catch up with former colleague Kaleem Abdullah to dive into his dynamic career in radio. From his early days in Tyler to major markets like Dallas and Houston, Kaleem shares unforgettable stories, industry insights, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the radio world and the experiences that shaped Kaleem’s journey.

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In this special replay episode of The Unknown Morning Show from August 30, Chuck and Mandee dive into a treasure trove of mobile DJ stories. 

They share heartfelt and humorous memories from past gigs, giving listeners a taste of the high-energy world of mobile DJing. 

Enjoy this unique look back as we bring back the engaging conversation that originally aired before our short winter break.

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