Women To Watch: Cherise Richards; 94.9 WQMX, Akron

Why It Matters

Richards’ blend of authentic broadcasting and community leadership illustrates how radio talent can drive listener loyalty and social impact, a model increasingly valuable as the industry seeks genuine engagement and diversity.

Key Takeaways

• Midday host, Assistant Program Director, and Music Director at WQMX
• Leads eight part-time on‑air personalities with live, no voice‑tracking shows
• Co‑chairs Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build, supporting local women
• Emphasizes real‑time interaction across air, text, and social platforms
• Advocates hands‑on training for next‑gen radio talent

Pulse Analysis

Cherise Richards wears several hats at Rubber City Radio’s 94.9 WQMX, serving as midday host, Assistant Program Director and Music Director while also helming a weekend show on 107.3 Alternative Cleveland. Her on‑air philosophy—“be right there in the listener’s cubicle”—drives a commitment to live, unscripted programming, a rarity in an era dominated by voice‑tracking and automation. By training eight part‑time personalities in real‑time broadcasting, Richards not only shapes the station’s sound but also creates a pipeline of talent that learns the full radio production puzzle from the ground up.

Beyond the studio, Richards leverages her platform to champion women’s causes. As co‑chair of Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build Project, she helps construct homes for women in need, while partnerships with The Healing Sanctuary and Cleveland Clinic Akron General bring free mammograms to the community. Her on‑air content blends music with lifestyle anecdotes—recipes, books, humor—making her relatable to a diverse audience. This blend of community service and personal storytelling reinforces the station’s local relevance and demonstrates how radio personalities can act as civic leaders.

Richards’ emphasis on authenticity reflects a broader shift in the audio market, where listeners reward genuine connection over polished production. By maintaining an active presence on social media and encouraging real‑time listener interaction, she models the “A‑level” talent profile that advertisers and stations now prize. Her advocacy for hands‑on training counters the industry’s push toward automation, arguing that true experience cannot be replicated by algorithms. As more women look to enter broadcasting, Richards’ career path offers a roadmap: perseverance, mentorship, and a willingness to blend professional expertise with community advocacy.