We look back on Mike Lacett’s path through WJPZ and Syracuse, and the conversation quickly shows how deeply those years shaped him. Mike explains that he first heard about Z89 from a Radio Disney DJ (you probably know who) before arriving on campus, and once he got to Syracuse, he threw himself into everything he could. He took early morning DJ shifts, worked on basketball shows, contributed news, and balanced that with time at AER. He describes himself at that stage as completely consumed by broadcasting, to the point where he gave up much of a normal college social life because he was so focused on getting better.
As he reflects on those years, Mike points to several people who influenced him, including Dave Peterman, Brett Bosse, Josh Wolff, Anish Shroff, Matt Lincoln, Brian Goldman, and others. What stands out is not only the talent level he remembers, but also the atmosphere. He says Z89 felt open, welcoming, and full of people who made him feel like he belonged. That sense of connection stayed with him long after graduation, and even when years go by without speaking to fellow alumni, the bond returns right away.
The episode also follows Mike’s professional journey after Syracuse. He walks through stops in Palm Springs, Charleston, Syracuse again, Toledo, Louisville, Grand Rapids, and Charlotte. Along the way, he learned that different parts of the country have different rhythms, values, and sports cultures. He also faced setbacks, including job changes and the cutting of sports departments, but he kept pushing forward. His story is one of persistence and adaptation, built on the belief that if this is the work you are meant to do, you keep going until someone gives you the opportunity.
A big part of the conversation centers on lessons. Mike says preparation became one of the most important habits he carried from WJPZ. He learned that talk radio and sports coverage only work when you show up ready. He also learned that trying to do everything at once eventually leads to burnout. That realization helped him narrow his focus and better manage his energy. Looking back, he wishes he had allowed himself to enjoy college a little more, but he also sees how that intense drive laid the foundation for the career he built.
The episode closes with advice for current students who want to work in sports media. Mike says they need conviction, originality, and the willingness to stand apart. For him, success comes from developing a distinct voice, taking creative chances, and constantly asking how a story or segment can be made better. He shares examples from his television career where he used animation, visual creativity, and unusual storytelling choices to make his work memorable. In the end, this episode is about ambition, growth, friendship, and the lasting identity that comes from being part of WJPZ.
You'll also hear about what happened to this freshman when he was rooting for the Rams in Super Bowl 36 - in a house full of 30+ Patriots fans. That, too, was a learning experience.
(00:00) Intro
(02:12) How BB Good helped Mike discover Syracuse and Z89
(03:19) Early influences at the station
(05:40) The famous 4:00 AM Saturday shift
(07:06) Looking back on college intensity and some regret
(08:00) Mike’s career path across the country
(10:44) Super Bowl memory and Boston sports culture
(14:47) Friendships built through WJPZ and AER
(15:43) The Comrex road trip story
(20:11) Memories of September 11 at Syracuse
(22:34) Lessons from WJPZ: preparation and burnout
(25:17) Advice for students pursuing sports media
(35:37) Closing reflections and thanks
(36:33) End credits
Want to be on the show? Email JAG at jag@jagpodcastproductions.com
Connect with the WJPZ Alumni Association: https://wjpzalumniassociation.org/
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