After more than 36 years at WXPN, Bruce Warren, one of the most influential figures in the non-commercial Triple A radio space, will begin a phased retirement starting in January 2025 and step down as Program Director. Bruce will remain an integral part of WXPN during this period, continuing to host his Saturday radio show, serving as Executive Producer of World Cafe, and managing WXPN’s continued evolution in the digital and social media space.
Bruce’s journey at WXPN is a music lover’s dream. Starting as a volunteer DJ, he became one of the founding producers of World Cafe, later taking on the roles of Music Director, Program Director, and Executive Producer. His career has been defined by a passion for music discovery, innovation, and building community.
Under Bruce’s leadership, WXPN has become a hub for adventurous listeners and independent artists, earning numerous awards and recognition. His vision for digital innovation made WXPN a leader in connecting with audiences in creative and meaningful ways. Bruce’s dedication to championing artists has left a lasting mark on the music industry, helping spotlight names like Brandi Carlile, Dawes, The Lumineers, Hozier, Alabama Shakes, Philly faves The War On Drugs and Mt. Joy, and so many more, early in their careers.
Bruce Warren and Brandi Carlile in 2009 | photo from the archives
“Bruce has been the heart and guiding voice of an incredible programming team for over three decades,” said WXPN General Manager Roger LaMay. “His creativity, vision, and unwavering dedication to music and the artists we champion have elevated this station to a national treasure.”
Reflecting on his career, Bruce said, “For my entire life here at XPN, it’s always been about the journey of building discovery through our programming—whether on XPN, nationally on World Cafe, through our festivals, Free At Noons, streaming, videos, or social platforms. Watching indie artists build their audiences and seeing the joy our community gets from the music has been the most rewarding part.”
Among his proudest accomplishments are being part of the team that launched World Cafe, as well as special projects like The Gospel Roots of Rock and Soul and The Black Opry Residency. “The amount of innovation and creativity here at XPN is as strong today as it was when we started,” Bruce added. “I’ve been fortunate to work with an incredible team, and I know they will continue to carry forward our mission of serving artists and audiences.”
WXPN’s Mike Vasilikos (left), Bruce Warren (right) | photo by Paige Walter for WXPN
While stepping back from many responsibilities at the station, Bruce will remain active in the industry. “I’m looking forward to the B side,” he said. “Plenty of hits can be found on the flip side. I’ll be spending more time with my family and teaching more at Temple and Penn.” For those who want to keep up with Bruce’s insights, his Substack, 10 Bands, is the perfect way to stay connected.
Starting in January, Assistant Program Director Jim McGuinn will step into the role of Acting Program Director. Jim is a programming veteran with decades of radio management experience who previously served as Program Director at Y100 and Minnesota Public Radio’s The Current.
Bruce Warren DJs the XPN Music and Film Festival in 2012 | photo by John Vettese
Bruce’s leadership, humor, and passion have shaped WXPN and the music community for decades. As Bruce often says, quoting legendary Philly DJ Jerry Blavat: “Keep on rockin’ cause you only rock once.”
Thank you, Bruce, for everything—and here’s to this exciting next chapter. Keep on rockin’.