How Heather Bermudez Built a Career Behind the Mic in America’s Toughest Radio Market
Heather Bermudez has built her radio career in one of the most demanding markets in the country. Her approach to the business is rooted in authenticity, pride, and an unwavering love for radio. Born and raised in New Jersey, Bermudez is proudly Peruvian American. She says her background shapes how she shows up both on and off the air. “I’m really proud of where I come from and who I am,” she says. “That identity influences how I connect with people and how I approach storytelling.”
She entered the industry straight out of college in 2018, landing a part-time role as a News Production Assistant at the legendary 1010 WINS. “People always say once you’ve worked at WINS, working anywhere else is a breeze,” Bermudez says. “It’s intense, but it teaches you discipline, urgency, and how to handle pressure. That experience shaped me.”
After four years in the newsroom, she made the move to WCBS-FM. That’s where she met Scott Shannon and Patty Steele and became their producer. “Working with Scott and Patty reignited my love for morning radio,” she explains. “After spending so much time in news, I had forgotten what it felt like to be in the driver’s seat during the early hours. I loved knowing I was part of people’s morning routines again, helping them wake up, making them laugh.”
In addition to producing, Bermudez took on managing the station’s social media presence, a role she views as critical to radio’s future. “Since COVID and the work-from-home era, listening habits have changed,” she says. “Everyone is scrolling now. If we want people to stay connected to radio, we have to be where they already are.”
Following Scott Shannon’s retirement, Bermudez helped launch a brand-new morning show with John Foxx, an experience that tested her creatively and professionally. “Starting a show from scratch is a lot of hard work, but it’s incredibly rewarding,” she says. “It forces you to trust your instincts and collaborate in a whole new way.” That chapter led seamlessly into her current role producing Mornings with Race Taylor, another ground-up build alongside one of radio’s most respected voices. “Working with Race is exciting,” Bermudez says. “We’ve already had so many incredible moments, and it feels special to help shape something new.”
Working in New York, she says, brings a unique responsibility. “This market is loud, proud, and incredibly diverse,” Bermudez explains. “You’re talking to people from all walks of life across the five boroughs and beyond. That’s something you don’t take lightly.”
Community involvement has remained a constant throughout her career. “The best way to be a community is to actually connect with people,” she says. “Meeting them where they are, sharing their stories, and giving them a voice is the least we can do.” Bermudez has helped spearhead initiatives benefiting children’s hospitals, food and diaper drives, and programs pairing veterans with service animals.
When it comes to A-level talent, Bermudez believes confidence is non-negotiable. “I’ve been around some incredibly confident people,” she says. “Sometimes it challenges you, sometimes it lifts you up, but it always pushes you to grow. Being comfortable with yourself is how you really find your voice.”
She’s equally passionate about authenticity, especially when it comes to attracting younger audiences. “The younger generation is looking for someone they can relate to,” Bermudez says. “They’re not looking for perfection; they want something real.” That mindset carries over into her approach to digital content. “Keeping up with trends is important, especially when they naturally fit the station,” she adds. “A lot of current trends feature ’80s music, which is right in WCBS-FM’s wheelhouse. It’s better to try than not try at all.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Bermudez remains focused on personal and professional growth. “My biggest passion project right now is myself,” she says. “I want to keep learning, keep growing, and keep getting better at what I do.”
Hear Heather Bermudez on Mornings with Race Taylor, weekdays from 6a–10a on WCBS-FM.
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Charese Fruge’ is an award-winning Content, Broadcast, and Marketing executive with over 20 years of experience in markets like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, San Diego, and Las Vegas. As the owner of MC Media, she works with radio brands and individual talent, especially young women, helping them grow their brands and negotiate on their own behalf. She is also a Voice Actor and Voice Over Talent as well as a Freelance Writer for International Broadcast Outlets. Find her at @MCMediaOnline or www.mcmediaonline.com.
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