The Unknown Morning Show

Mandee Montana and Chuck McKinley
  • 5.0 (2)
  • PERFORMING ARTS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Two former broadcast co-workers talk show. One is still in the "show" on traditional broadcast media and the other has transitioned into podcasting. Listen as Chuck and Mandee talk about radio, programming, gear, pop-culture and more. 

  1. NOV 21

    Melissa Kiser on Leadership, Radio Life, and the Stories That Shape Us

    We want to hear from you! Send us a Text. On this episode of The Unknown Morning Show, Mandee Montana and Chuck McKinley welcome back guest Melissa Kiser for a lively, nostalgic, and insight-filled conversation. Fresh off her promotion to News Director, Melissa shares what stepping into leadership has taught her. From navigating newsroom dynamics to honoring the responsibility of telling the community’s stories. She reflects on her long radio career, how the industry has evolved, and why it still holds that mysterious, magnetic pull. The trio also takes a fun detour down memory lane, revisiting Chuck’s legendary Nacho Libre costume mishap, swapping sports stories, and laughing through moments that shaped their early broadcasting days. Along the way, they explore: The joys and challenges of radio lifeThe surprising “dark sides” of the industryHow storytelling builds resilienceThe real-life lessons that leadership bringsWhy nostalgia plays such a powerful role in their workIt’s an episode full of laughs, honesty, and heartfelt reflection. It's perfect for anyone who loves radio, storytelling, or the people who make it happen. Support The Unknown Morning Show when you buy us a cup of coffee. Support the show

    1h 25m

  2. OCT 18

    Friday Nights & Radio Lights: Kenny Smith Returns

    We want to hear from you! Send us a Text. Chuck and Mandee welcome back their friend Kenny Smith for Season 2, Episode 2 of The Unknown Morning Show! This episode is a nostalgic ride through the heart of East Texas as the trio talks high school football, small-town pride, and the art of broadcasting under the Friday night lights. Kenny shares what it’s like to call the action for the Lindale Eagles and dives into some of his favorite radio memories—both funny and heartfelt. Whether you’re a football fan, a radio nerd, or just love a good East Texas story, this one’s for you. Support The Unknown Morning Show when you buy us a cup of coffee. Support the show

    1h 19m

  3. SEP 19

    From Dairy Queen to Dallas: Chris Ryan’s Wild Ride Through Texas Radio

    We want to hear from you! Send us a Text. On this episode of The Unknown Morning Show, Chris Ryan joins us to share a no-holds-barred look at his journey from small-town DJ to Dallas radio mainstay and professional voiceover artist. Chris reflects on the wild early days— the overnight-to-morning-drive promotion after a bank takeover, and his time navigating life in radio. We talk about cutting his teeth in Tyler radio (while being told to cut his hair), underage nights at Rick’s, and the moment he had to tell 60,000 Metallica fans that James Hetfield wouldn’t be performing. Oh—and the time he met Ozzy Osbourne dressed as Elvis. Plus, Chris shares what it’s like working in voiceover today, how his studio setup has evolved, and why coaching youth baseball for nearly a decade was one of the best experiences of his life. It’s a hilarious, heartfelt conversation full of insane stories, industry insights, and Texas radio nostalgia. Support The Unknown Morning Show when you buy us a cup of coffee. Support the show

    1h 19m

  4. SEASON 1, EPISODE 54 TRAILER

    UMS - Season Finale and Summer Break Plans

    We want to hear from you! Send us a Text. After more than 50 episodes in the first season of The Unknown Morning Show, it's time to press pause for the summer. Chuck and Mandee are so grateful to every single guest who shared stories, laughs, and real talk — it's made this season unforgettable. In this episode, they reflect briefly on how far we’ve come, the career pivots they’ve made, and what might be brewing for Season Two (spoiler: it could look a little different 👀). They’re dreaming, recharging, and leaving room for creativity. Don’t worry— their friendship and coffee obsession are still going strong. Who knows, there might even be a surprise bonus episode or two they're back full swing this Fall! Support the show

    3 min

  5. MAY 23

    UMS 53 - Michael Gibson

    We want to hear from you! Send us a Text. In this episode of The Unknown Morning Show, Chuck McKinley and Mandee Montana sit down with longtime East Texas radio personality and Mandee’s former colleague, Michael Gibson.  From his roots in Lindale to meeting Garth Brooks in Nashville, Michael shares stories that span decades behind the mic. We talk about the magic of small-town radio, riding camels with Lisa Live, emceeing possum festivals, and the joy of simply connecting with listeners between songs.  Whether you love classic radio, quirky festivals, or just good conversation—this episode delivers a little bit of everything. Support The Unknown Morning Show when you buy us a cup of coffee. Support the show

    1h 31m

  6. MAY 16

    UMS 52 - Lisa "Live"

    We want to hear from you! Send us a Text. In this episode of The Unknown Morning Show, Mandee Montana and Chuck McKinley sit down with East Texas radio legend Lisa Wells, a woman whose “gift of gab” has powered a decades-long career in broadcasting. Lisa opens up about the moments that shaped her journey—from skydiving for morning show stunts and endorsing unlikely products to being live on-air during 9/11.  Support The Unknown Morning Show when you buy us a cup of coffee. Support the show

    1h 52m

  7. MAY 9

    UMS 51 - Michael Storm Returns

    We want to hear from you! Send us a Text. In this episode of The Unknown Morning Show, Mandee Montana and Chuck McKinley sit down with special guest Michael Storm to dive into the past, present, and future of radio.  From programming and playlist curation to community engagement and tech tools like PlayoutONE and MusicMaster, Michael shares real-world insights from running his own station, Great FM.  The trio also explores how radio is adapting to corporate consolidation, AI disruption, and digital burnout. Plus, hear fun throwbacks like Touch A Truck and personal stories from behind the mic. Support The Unknown Morning Show when you buy us a cup of coffee. Support the show

    1h 2m

  8. MAY 2

    UMS 50 - Replay - Promotions: The Stories You Didn’t Hear On-Air

    We want to hear from you! Send us a Text. In this lively episode, Chuck and Mandee dive into the unforgettable world of radio promotions — the creative campaigns and once-in-a-career moments that shaped their journeys. From the big events they witnessed to the promotions they helped bring to life, they share a behind-the-scenes look at how radio magic is made (and sometimes improvised!). Tune in for a fun, nostalgic ride through radio history, creativity, and the moments that left a lasting impact. Support The Unknown Morning Show when you buy us a cup of coffee. Support the show

    31 min
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Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Two former broadcast co-workers talk show. One is still in the "show" on traditional broadcast media and the other has transitioned into podcasting. Listen as Chuck and Mandee talk about radio, programming, gear, pop-culture and more. 

Information

  • Creator
    Mandee Montana and Chuck McKinley
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    57
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Unknown Morning Show
  • Show Website
    The Unknown Morning Show