DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. — He’s a two-time Fordham University alum who began his career in radio as an undergraduate at the gold-based Progressive/Adult Alternative noncommercial FM it operates in the nation’s largest market. Now, after stints at Clear Channel, successor operator iHeartMedia, Randy Michaels’ Merlin Media, Amazon’s music division and SiriusXM, he’s formally ascended to the top role at WFUV.
For Rich McLaughlin, it is a cementing of a role he’s held on an interim basis since July. He’s been a key member of the ‘FUV leadership team since being named Program Director in June 2021, rising to Associate GM in fall 2025.
“WFUV has been a cornerstone of my life since my college days, and I know firsthand how transformative this station is for students discovering their potential,” said McLaughlin, who served as WFUV Content Director between April 2008 and November 2009. “We have an incredible team, a passionately loyal community of listeners, and a vibrant connection to New York’s cultural fabric. I am honored to lead WFUV as we continue championing music discovery, mentoring our students, and finding creative new ways to serve our community.”
McLaughlin began his career at Sirius Satellite Radio, prior to its merger with XM, as a Format Manager, overseeing “Alt Nation” and another Alternative-themed music channel. In November 2009, he joined Clear Channel as a Digital PD, exiting in July 2011 to take on the role of Senior Director of Digital Programming & Marketing at Merlin, which attempted to bring an all-News offering to the FM dial in an era when WCBS-AM and WINS-AM commanded the lion’s share of format audience.
In September 2012, McLaughlin returned to what was now iHeartMedia, as Director of Digital Programming. In January 2014, he was promoted to Sr. VP of Programming, departing at the end of 2015. By April 2016, McLaughlin was with Amazon, starting as a “Senior Music Curator” before exiting in June 2021 as Global Programming Lead for its music catalog.
“Since returning to WFUV in 2021 as program director, he has helped modernize the station’s on-air and digital content while strengthening its identity as a destination for music discovery,” WFUV said.
McLaughlin earned a B.A. in Communications from Fordham in 2001 and is a 1997 graduate of Chaminade High School in Mineola, N.Y.
