Sometimes the next chapter isn’t really a new chapter at all.
Sometimes it’s a return to the place where a broadcaster built a legacy.
That’s exactly what’s happening for longtime sports radio personality John Kinkade, who is headed back to Dickey Broadcasting in Atlanta after announcing he’ll step away from mornings at 97.5 The Fanatic in Philadelphia at the end of July. The company has confirmed Kincade has signed a long-term agreement, although his new on-air and off-air responsibilities have yet to be revealed.
For sports radio fans in Atlanta, this isn’t simply another talent acquisition—it’s the return of a voice that spent two decades helping shape mornings on 680 The Fan. Kinkade originally joined the station in 2000 before returning to his hometown of Philadelphia in 2021, where he reconnected with the city that launched his broadcasting career.
His career has never followed a straight line. From getting his start at 610 WIP in Philadelphia to building a national profile through ESPN Radio and CBS Sports Radio, Kinkade has established himself as one of the industry’s most recognizable sports talk personalities. Whether breaking down an Eagles loss, debating college football, or connecting with listeners on a personal level, he’s built a reputation for bringing knowledge, personality, and authenticity to every conversation.
His departure from Philadelphia also comes after a period of personal reflection following his battle with cancer, a challenge he has spoken about publicly while making it clear he wasn’t ready to walk away from broadcasting. Instead, he’s choosing a different path—one that now leads back to Atlanta.
For Dickey Broadcasting, this move sends a clear message. Investing in proven talent still matters. In an era when many broadcasters are looking for ways to do more with less, bringing back an established personality with decades of credibility is a reminder that experienced voices continue to have tremendous value.
Now the industry waits to learn exactly where Kinkade will land inside the Dickey organization. Will he return to a familiar on-air role? Will he expand into programming, digital content, or another leadership position? Those answers are still to come, but one thing is already certain: Atlanta just welcomed back one of its own.
Broadcasting has a funny way of bringing people home.
On The Dial covers breaking radio industry news, including layoffs, programming changes, talent moves, and broadcast trends across the United States.
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