Word is getting around that First Thing With Mike Stubbs and Lisa Brandt is no more. It was just about one year ago that Mike and I started working together and we had lots of laughs, collaborations, and great moments on the air. But Mike was always clear with me; First Thing was his second thing when it came to professional satisfaction.Â
Mike is first and foremost a play-by-play guy and he is widely thought of as the best one in the OHL. He’s been with the London Knights for many years, and now that the Knights are taking their broadcast elsewhere, Mike is going with them. That means no more Mike on CJBK, his radio home for nearly two decades. He is very well-liked around the building and in the community. Mike’s a stand-up guy; ethical, honest, all of those good things. But I won’t deny that I’m deeply disappointed that we barely got some traction on our show, and it’s already over. It ended while I was on vacation. Our last show together was…our last show. Although I did pop in during the final few minutes of last Thursday’s program and ambushed him on the air. My aim was to make sure he took a few moments to talk about his time with CJBK. He also deserved to hear some nice things said by me, as well as Ryan Spence and Al Coombs, who both worked with him for a lot longer than 11 months. It was also important that he know I have no hard feelings, although I reserve the right to feel sad for a little while.
I would never try to stand in the way of someone’s dream or criticize their priorities just because they’re not the same as mine. Mike is devoted to his family and had a successful career long before I came along, as did I before I met him. I want us to part as pals, for him to conquer whatever challenges come up, and to achieve his goals. He’s a great guy, a huge talent and I’ll miss him.
As for what’s next? Who knows! I’ll still wake up at 3 am and keep doing what I’m doing until the powers-that-be decide on the morning show’s direction. Several people have suggested that Derek should come out of retirement and join me on First Thing. He’s flattered but not interested, and I can’t blame him. Even after more than three decades in this game, I’ve learned that I can guess all I want about what will happen but there’s really no point, because I’ll likely be wrong. Stay tuned.
My heart goes out to you. Of course you would want Mike to follow his dreams, just as you did in leaving 680 to follow your heart…but it’s so hard for the partner left behind. I wish you an easy transition, great chemistry and someone who respects you for what you’ve done, what you know and how dedicated you are every moment of every shift. And the hours in between. Good luck to you. Onwards and upwards! Hugs, E.
Keep at at it, some one somewhere at some time that suits them (not you) will decide. I say stick with it because good, honest broadcasters and journalists are very hard to find. In my opinion your at the top of the list. 1290 CJBK has found it very difficult to make decisions that affect people. Now that it is been gobbled up by Bell it seems nothing has changed
Sometimes change brings great opportunities and experiences! I hope this is one of those times. As for Mike, it’s hard to wish ill will on one of the nicest guys in radio;)
You’ve got that right Tucker – and it takes one to know one, buddy! 🙂
Good evening Lisa this change surprised me as never saw it coming .Mike a great guy who yes knows Tons of things especially hockey with Knights .Will he be missed from 1290
Yes as sad to say ratings will drop nothing I can do about or you. Changes happen in business everyday so keep positive do the best you can as that all you can ask for. This change will hurt CJBK and yes still listen to morning show but sounds strange with out him. Keep smiling Lisa as I believe as when you do great things will come to you. I will be there tomorrow morning 6Am listening to you & other staff. You got it kid do not get down just make this a challenge as I know you can do it.
I really do have a life outside of my radio buddy’s, but something is amiss. The morning breakfast table is off kilter, must be missing a leg or something. It doesn’t feel right, but the other 3 legs are still holding it up and its up to me make sure I still get up early and support it however I can. Bernice the Bus driver.