The Drive Tucson is an anthem for distant memories, where every song brings it all rushing back. From family dinners timed to the evening news, to TV carts in classrooms and “The Price Is Right” on summer mornings. We don’t just play Timeless Variety; we rewind the soundtrack of your life and play the parts that still feel like home.
At The Drive Tucson, everything you hear is shaped by a tight-knit, collaborative team that brings heart, humor, and Tucson pride to the airwaves every day.
Matt Gentry (M-F 6a-10a)
Director of Programming & Morning Host
Matt oversees and is responsible for everything that goes on the air, from managing the team and shaping the station’s content to curating music and crafting on-air promotions. He leads with intention and trust, always creating space for collaboration. During the week on-air, he starts the day alongside his wife Randi (on Tues & Thur) with the kind of chemistry you can hear.
Leslie Lois (Saturdays 12p-6p)
Programming Team & On-Air Talent
Leslie plays a vital dual role, helping shape the station’s content while serving as the key liaison between the sales and programming teams. It’s a behind-the-scenes job that keeps everything running smoothly, and few can do it like she can. On the air, her warmth, wit, and relatability have made her one of The Drive’s most beloved voices.
Ken Carr (M-F 10a-3p)
Production Director & Midday Host
With decades of Tucson radio experience, Ken brings steady insight and deep local knowledge. He manages commercial production and voice talent, an often-unsung piece of the station’s sound and polish. As a midday host, he keeps things local, fun, and full of heart.
Mikey Esparza (M-F 3p-7p)
Afternoon Host
A founding voice of The Drive Tucson, Mikey has become a core part of its personality. His celebrity impressions, humor, and quick wit add color to the station’s sound, while his presence on the air brings attitude, energy, and authenticity.
Maria Mendez (M-F 7p-11p)
Overnight Host
Maria brings warmth, style, and deep Tucson roots to the late-night hours. Her connection with the community and loyal Nightriders gives The Drive Tucson a sense of heart that carries into every corner of the day.
Patty Ruiz
General Manager & Vice President
Patty’s steady leadership and trust in her team have shaped an environment where creativity and collaboration can thrive. Her support has helped The Drive Tucson become something truly rare in radio: a station that runs on heart, not ego.
From giving away classic cars to handing out oven mitts (because why not?), we’ve always looked for real, fun ways to connect with Tucson. But it’s never just been about prizes, it’s about showing up, supporting local causes, and being part of the community.
That connection has grown into something special. Thanks to you, The Drive Tucson is now one of the fastest-growing stations in town. Behind it all is a team of seasoned pros who bring more than talent, they bring heart, hometown pride, and stories that feel like your own.
At The Drive Tucson, every song is placed with purpose. We don’t just play Timeless Variety, we create a mood, a memory, a moment that sticks with you. Great radio takes heart. And you can feel it.
Request a song, share a memory, or just say hello. We’re always a call or text away. At The Drive Tucson, you’re not just a listener, you’re part of our radio family. 520.815.1017
The Drive Tucson – 830 AM / 101.7 FM
The Radio Station the Other Radio Stations Listen To.
