Chris Carlin, a former host at WFAN and SNY, recently shared his thoughts on the ongoing dispute between Mike Francesa and Chris Russo. Carlin, who now co-hosts a midday radio show with Ike Reese for WIP in Philadelphia, has a unique perspective on the matter, having produced the iconic “Mike and the Mad Dog” show for seven years.
Carlin’s journey from New York to Philadelphia was driven by his desire to have his own show and see if he could succeed in a new market. Despite facing initial resistance from Philadelphia fans who saw him as an outsider, Carlin has managed to connect with the local audience by focusing on topics they care about, such as the Eagles and other Philadelphia sports.
When asked about his influences from WFAN, Carlin mentioned both Francesa and Russo. He admired Russo’s relentless energy and Francesa’s deep knowledge and analytical approach. These experiences have shaped Carlin’s own broadcasting style and approach to radio.
Carlin also touched on the possibility of replacing Francesa at WFAN, expressing his reluctance to leave Philadelphia. He acknowledged the impact of the “Mike and the Mad Dog” show and the emotional response he had while watching the “30 for 30” documentary about the duo. Carlin remains hopeful that Francesa and Russo might reunite, but he is skeptical about it happening at WFAN.
Reflecting on his career, Carlin shared anecdotes about his early days in broadcasting, including his time as a radio announcer for a Minor League Baseball team and his stint as a courier while trying to break into the industry. His persistence and dedication eventually led him to WFAN, where he started as an intern and worked his way up to producing “Mike and the Mad Dog.”
Carlin’s respect for Francesa is evident, despite reports of a strained relationship. He credits Francesa and Russo for teaching him the importance of results and the lengths one must go to secure high-profile guests. These lessons have stayed with Carlin throughout his career.
Carlin’s passion for play-by-play announcing is another significant aspect of his career. He initially aspired to be the next Marv Albert and has enjoyed various roles in radio and TV. His tenure at Rutgers, where he has been the voice of Rutgers football, is a testament to his love for live events and the camaraderie that comes with it.
Despite his commitments at WFAN, Carlin continues to call Rutgers football games, driven by his emotional attachment to the team and the opportunities it has provided him. He is confident in his ability to balance both roles and is prepared to criticize Rutgers if necessary, understanding the responsibilities that come with his job.
Carlin’s experience in Philadelphia has also shaped his approach to radio. He learned the importance of grabbing listeners’ attention quickly and the differences between the Philadelphia and New York markets. This experience has made him a better broadcaster and prepared him for the challenges of his new role at WFAN.
As Carlin navigates his new show with Bart Scott and Maggie Gray, he is focused on creating a dynamic and engaging program. He understands the mechanics of a three-person team and is committed to driving the conversation while allowing his co-hosts to contribute their insights.
Carlin’s journey from producing “Mike and the Mad Dog” to co-hosting his own show in Philadelphia and now at WFAN is a testament to his dedication and passion for broadcasting. His insights into the Francesa and Russo dispute, along with his experiences and lessons learned, provide a unique perspective on the world of sports radio.
