Bert Weiss Retires from Radio With a Quarter-Century Legacy

Bert Weiss stopped broadcasting 'The Bert Show' one year ago, concluding a 25-year career in radio.

At the time of his departure in March 2025, the Atlanta-based program was syndicated to 52 stations. Weiss had an average live audience of 100,000 listeners weekly. His contract included a $1 million buyout package. The decision to leave came after the network offered him a new deal that he felt did not align with his goals.

Weiss, who is 58, cited a desire for more control over his creative output as the primary reason for his exit. He became the owner of the show's production company, Q100, in 2010. This move required him to hire additional staff, including a show supervisor and editors, to manage the increased workload. He noted that while he maintained creative control, he was responsible for the financial aspects of the business.

The host's career began in 2004 when he replaced a departing colleague at Atlanta's Q100. He had previously worked as a producer for 'The Howard Stern Show' and 'The Joe Rogan Experience.' Before that, he served as the morning host on X99 Atlanta. Weiss said he was inspired by his former mentor, the late Kidd Kraddick, who died in 2013 while hosting a charity golf tournament.

Kraddick's sudden death at age 53 influenced Weiss's decision to step away while his show was still popular. Weiss said he did not want to end his career the same way. He described his relationship with Kraddick as a formative period in his radio career. The two worked together during the early years of Weiss's syndicated program.

Since retiring, Weiss has focused on his personal life and travel. He and his wife, Denise, have spent more time together than in previous years. He mentioned taking early trips to places like San Antonio, Texas, and Nashville, Tennessee. He also travels with friends, including a group that plays poker and watches sports.

Weiss said he has not missed being on the air. He described his current schedule as a relief from the pressure of daily broadcasting. He noted that radio has changed significantly in recent years. He believes that authenticity remains the key to success in the medium, a lesson he learned from his early experiences.

The host plans to remain involved in the industry in a limited capacity. He occasionally consults on projects and maintains ties to the Atlanta media community. He said he is content with his decision and does not foresee a return to full-time hosting. He remains active in social media, engaging with listeners and sharing updates on his life.

Weiss's retirement marks the end of an era for a popular syndicated format. His show, which combined news, sports, and commentary, attracted a loyal following. He credits his longevity to a commitment to genuine conversation and a refusal to chase trends. He said he is grateful for the opportunities radio provided and the relationships he built along the way.