Breaking the Sound Barrier: How Women Are Reshaping Radio

By Mikekel Robinson|KTSU 2 News

Speaker & Coach JJ on the Mic paid a visit to Texas Southern University on April 19 to participate in a panel discussion about women in radio with Michele McKnight and young Jas.

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For decades, radio has been a male-dominated industry, but women are increasingly shaping its future. From influencing content to making history behind the mic, female broadcasters are proving their impact.

Finding a Voice in Radio

For longtime radio personality JJ Simmons, the allure of the industry was more than just music—it was the opportunity to connect with people.

“I was struck by the fact that in radio you can be around music all day, right? You can meet cool people—not just artists and celebrities, but also everyday people on the request line,” Simmons said. “But one thing that stood out the most for me, believe it or not, is the fact that I could wear what I wanted to work.”

The Challenges of Representation

Despite the growing presence of women in radio, challenges persist. Female voices often face pushback when addressing issues that matter to them. Simmons notes that while progress has been made, the industry still underestimates the contributions of women.

“I think there are probably still a lot of people who don’t really understand how impactful we’ve been to the industry,” Simmons explained. “Right here in Houston, you have a woman like Terry Thomas, who has helped shape the sound of multiple stations—Magic, The Box, The Praise—all of them.”

Lessons Learned Through the Airwaves

With over 20 years in the industry, Simmons has built a career rooted in resilience and adaptability. She credits her success to the power of networking, though she admits it hasn’t always been easy.

“One of the biggest lessons I learned was how important networking is. You would assume that because I’m in radio and television, I’m a big people person—very extroverted. But I’m not,” she admitted. “When it comes to one-on-one connections, it’s always been hard for me, and I truly believe that’s been to my detriment.”

Inspiring the Next Generation

As she continues her career, Simmons is more than just a voice on the airwaves—she’s a mentor, a trailblazer, and a role model for aspiring women in media. By staying true to her passion and paving the way for others, she is helping redefine what success looks like for women in radio.