Doug “Doc of Rock” Podell, the legendary Detroit radio personality, is retiring after a remarkable 50-year career in broadcasting.
His last show will air on December 5, 2025, wrapping up his tenure at 106.7 WLLZ Detroit Wheels. Podell has been a constant voice on Detroit’s airwaves, and his retirement marks the end of an era for the Motor City’s rock radio scene.
A fixture of Detroit radio since 1975, Podell’s career began at 99.5 WABX before moving on to 106.7 WWWW (W4). He later spent time at 92.5 KQRS in Minneapolis, but it was his time at 98.7 WLLZ in the 1980s that solidified his place in Detroit’s music culture.
Serving as both Program Director and on-air personality, Podell helped shape the station’s identity and played a major role in its success during the decade.
His career continued to flourish when he took on key roles in Cleveland at 98.5 WNCX, where he served as Operations Manager and afternoon drive host. There, he helped guide the station to a #1 rating and was instrumental in bringing Howard Stern to the Cleveland market.
After returning to Detroit in 1995, Podell’s leadership at 101.1 WRIF included overseeing the popular “Drew & Mike Show” and managing the station as Operations Manager for 15 years. His influence also extended to pioneering Detroit’s rock morning format, which became a staple for local listeners.
Podell’s voice was also heard on 94.7 WCSX from 2009 to 2017 and on 93.1 WDRQ. Additionally, he hosted Westwood One’s “Live in Concert” for over 20 years, bringing national rock performances to millions of listeners nationwide.
“Doug Podell is a Detroit original,” said Casey Krukowski, Program Director at 106.7 WLLZ. “His passion for music and his deep connection with his audience have made a lasting impact. We’re proud that he chose to finish his legendary career with us.”
Over the years, Podell’s contributions to the radio industry have been recognized with several accolades, including Program Director of the Year honors from Billboard and R&R, Michigan’s Best Radio DJ by The Detroit News, and the Distinguished Career Award from the Detroit Music Awards. In 2024, he was named Grand Marshal of the Polish Day Parade, where a community roast raised over $30,000 for charity.
Reflecting on his career, Podell said, “It’s been an incredible ride. From my first days at WABX to coming full circle at WLLZ, it’s the perfect place to sign off. I’ve been lucky to spend 50 years doing what I love in the city I love, surrounded by listeners who made it all worth it.”
#DougPodell #DetroitRadio #RockRadio #MotorCity #WLLZ #RadioLegend #Retirement #DetroitMusic #RockDJ #OnAirTalent #DetroitRadioIcon #DetroitHeritage