Brian Welch, who had been serving as Production Director along with morning co-host and afternoon host, rises to Program Director. Welch, who has worked at the Cumulus Ann Arbor cluster since 2011, will continue to host mornings with his wife Madison Rally and serve as station meteorologist.
Welch commented, “The hallmark of W4 Country has always been community involvement, and that won’t change as long as I have a say. Our lineup also brings consistency; while the schedule has changed, we’ve all been a part of this station and our listeners’ lives for years. W4 Country is a family, and I’m honored to be leading it.”
Welch takes the PD duties that had been held by Aaron ‘Goose’ Seller until his exit in Cumulus’ Fall 2024 layoffs.
Matt Missler will succeed Welch in afternoons. Missler has been with the cluster since 2013 with roles including Promotions Assistant, fill-in host, University of Michigan Women’s Basketball studio host, and producer of many shows for sister Sports “The Big 1050” WTKA. He has also managed the cluster’s digital content since 2018.
Taking Welch’s production duties is Derek Laughlin. Laughlin has spent the past four years as a promotions assistant, producer for WTKA and News/Talk 1290 WLBY, and weekend host for WWWW-FM. In his new role he will create web and social media content and will also manage events with the Promotions Department.
As part of the changes, midday host Veronica Rates’ shift will be expanded to 10am to 3pm.
Cumulus Detroit/Ann Arbor RVP/Market Manager Steve Finateri said, ““These promotions reflect the incredible talent and dedication of our W4 Country team. Brian Welch’s elevation to Program Director is especially exciting—his deep roots in the community, creative vision, and years of on-air experience make him the ideal leader to guide the station’s next chapter. Alongside Matt and Derek’s new roles, we’re confident these moves will position us to deliver even more engaging, local content to our listeners and greater value to our advertisers.”
