Matt Spatz to Take Over Mornings on WNCX Cleveland

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, September 22, 2025 | 10:16am CT

Matt Spatz

Audacy Classic Rock 98.5 WNCX Cleveland names Matt Spatz as its new morning host, succeeding longtime personality Tim Slats. Spatz will debut on October 6, following Slats' retirement after 14 years at the station. Slats' final broadcast will be October 3.

"Slats is a true Cleveland legend, and we can't thank him enough for being the rock of our mornings for so long," said Nard, Brand Manager, 98.5 WNCX. "We are delighted that Spatz will bring his dynamic energy and deep passion for rock music. He is inheriting an important legacy, and we are confident in his ability to connect with our listeners and excited for how he shapes the future of mornings on WNCX."

Slats, who signed off with his trademark humor, added, "21 years in Cleveland, 14 years at WNCX, and it's been an honor and a privilege. I'll see ya around... Avon, OH-IO."

Spatz, a Berea native, most recently hosted mornings at WONE in Akron, where he also served as Program Director for Rubber City Radio Group. His three-decade career began after graduating from Otterbein University in the 1990s and has included roles at WLVQ, WROV, WYFM, WONE, WRQK and WNCD, as well as programming leadership with Cumulus Media and Clear Channel.

"I've been incredibly fortunate to have some great W's in my career," Spatz said. "But having the opportunity to take the morning reins from Slats at WNCX in my hometown is truly a dream come true. Thank you to the Audacy Cleveland team led by Jeff Miller, Chase Daniels and Nard, as well as Jeff Sottolano, Dave Richards and Vince Richards for your trust and belief in me. Can't wait to get started."

To mark his retirement, Slats will host a special event, Slats Final Bow Wow, benefiting the Friendship Animal Protection League, which helps dogs and cats in need of permanent homes.