Longtime Morning Show Hosts Exit Max 98.3 FM in Lakeland

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Eric Michaels

Veteran radio hosts Eric Michaels (pictured) and Mike Lee have announced their departure from the morning show at Adult Hits WWRZ (Max 98.3 FM), marking an end to live programming at the Hall Communications outlet. The station, serving the Lakeland-Winter Haven area, will transition to a fully automated format, eliminating all live and voicetracked personalities.

The duo, known for their popular "Big Max Morning Show," took to social media to share the news of their termination, effective January 6. In a heartfelt post on Max 98.3's Facebook page, Michaels reflected on the pair's 15-year tenure, which spanned numerous challenges including hurricanes, a pandemic, and personal milestones.

"Over the past 15 years we've gone through many challenges; hurricanes, pandemics, marriages, but somehow you always welcomed us and allowed us to do the thing we love," Michaels wrote. "You have no idea the pride and joy we felt when one of you would mention something specific we had done on the air and how much joy it brought you."

The decision to part ways with Michaels and Lee comes as a result of economic pressures, a common theme in the evolving broadcast industry. "Any business person will tell you, if something isn't making money then changes have to be made and sometimes that means letting people go," Michaels explained.

Despite the somber nature of their departure, Michaels encouraged listeners to look forward with optimism. "I don't want you to be sad," he stated. "We will pick ourselves up and move forward. On behalf of Mike and myself, thank you for everything."