If you’re a Charlotte radio listener, or perhaps were once one, you’re likely familiar with Paul Schadt. He’s been in the market since the early 1980s, and since 1997 at WKKT “96.9 The Kat,” the Country radio station owned by iHeartMedia.
Come February 2025, Schadt will be hanging up the headphones. But, he will be an active retiree.
Schadt, co-host of “The Paul Schadt & Sarah Lee Morning Show,” will continue to serve as a station ambassador and make on-air and on-site appearances.
Schadt is a 2014 inductee into the Country Radio Hall of Fame and holds multiple Academy of Country Music (ACM) and Country Music Association (CMA) awards and nominations. Additionally, Schadt holds the distinction of the current longest-running personality on Charlotte radio. He’s been the co-host of “Racing Country USA” for the last 29 years, too.
“This has been the toughest decision of my life by far, because I love what I do,” Schadt said. “I’m a very lucky guy, I’ve had the most remarkable ‘job’ anyone could ever ask for. Growing up, I never would have believed the people I’d meet and work with, the experiences I’d have and all the lives I’d get to be a part of every day.”
Dave Carwile, the iHeartMedia Region President overseeing Charlotte, praised Schadt’s lasting impact, noting, “Paul’s journey from the daily broadcast to a cherished ambassador role is a testament to his unmatched contributions and passion for the industry. While he may no longer be on-air with us every morning, his influence and spirit will continue to guide and inspire listeners and colleagues alike.”
Schadt joined WKKT at the end of 1997 after sixteen years at crosstown Country WSOC-FM.
