J'Michael Francois

J’Michael Francois is a visionary broadcast executive and proud son of New Orleans, Louisiana, whose journey in radio began at the remarkable age of 12. As a precocious middle schooler, his captivating presence on WYLD-AM’s “Wake Up Lines” quickly caught the attention of listeners and industry leaders alike. That early spark ignited a lifelong passion, leading to an internship at Clear Channel Radio New Orleans—and by 18, he was officially on the air.

Over the next two decades, J’Michael carved an impressive path through Louisiana’s most influential markets. He honed his craft as an on-air personality at WPRF-FM (Gospel) and KMEZ-FM (Urban AC) under Citadel Broadcasting in New Orleans before becoming Program Director at KFXZ-AM in Lafayette, LA—his first of many leadership appointments.

In 2006, he returned to Citadel (now Cumulus Media) as Program Director of the storied WXOK-AM in Baton Rouge. His leadership quickly expanded to include programming for KQXL-FM, and following Cumulus’ acquisition of Citadel in 2011, J’Michael was elevated to oversee programming and operations for the full Baton Rouge cluster, including WXOK-AM, KQXL-FM, WEMX-FM, and WRQQ-FM—and later the New Orleans cluster as well.

In 2024, after 18 impactful years with Cumulus Media, J’Michael stepped boldly into a new chapter as Vice President of R&B and Gospel Formats for Summit Media. In this executive role, he leads the strategic vision for WBHK-FM (98.7 Kiss) and WAGG-AM (610 WAGG) in Birmingham, Alabama, and WJMZ-FM (107.3 JAMZ) in Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina, while also gracing the airwaves as an afternoon personality across both markets.

A nationally recognized voice in urban and inspirational radio, J’Michael was named one of Radio Ink’s “Future African American Leaders in Radio” in 2019, a testament to his enduring influence, innovative spirit, and unwavering pursuit of excellence.

Off the mic, J’Michael is equally committed to service. He was honored to serve on the transition team for Baton Rouge Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome and remains deeply involved in causes that reflect his heart and heritage. In loving tribute to his parents, both of whom lost their battle with cancer, he champions the work of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, MD Anderson Cancer Center, and the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation.

The eldest of four siblings, J’Michael Francois continues to lead with purpose, passion, and faith, standing as a powerful force in media and a champion for community, cultural authenticity, and storytelling.