Rising Stars: Meet Juan Carlos Yanez of Duluth

Today we’d like to introduce you to Juan Carlos Yanez.

Hi Juan Carlos, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I am proudly from Mexico, but I am also deeply grateful for all the blessings I’ve received and for the opportunities this beautiful country has given me. My encounter with radio was not planned—it happened by chance, like one of those opportunities that feel destined. I was simply at the right place at the right time.

It all began at a remote broadcast contest in North Carolina. That was my very first encounter with radio and a microphone. Like many in this industry, I started from the bottom, learning through trial and error—sometimes with tough lessons and scoldings, and other times with true mentorship. I began working in promotions, but what truly captivated me was radio production. Thanks to my academic background, I had the tools to dive into this world, and production quickly became my passion.

My first jobs were in North Carolina. In 2009, I tried to break into the radio market in Georgia, but the opportunity didn’t come, so I moved to Illinois, where I worked as a producer for two radio stations. There, I created commercials, imaging, and branding, and connected with incredible people who expanded my knowledge. My big break as an on-air host came in Greenville, South Carolina, where I finally had my own radio show. Those were difficult days, but my dream was always bigger than my mistakes or setbacks.

Finally, in July 2013, I was given a life-changing opportunity at La Que Buena 101.9 FM in Atlanta, Georgia. I started in the morning show and, over time, became the station’s producer, working not only with local businesses but also with international brands such as McDonald’s, Burger King, Bimbo, Buchanan’s, Bud Light, Zaxby’s, and Chick-fil-A. Today, after more than 18 years in the industry, I continue to serve as a producer and creative director, while hosting El Show del Zorrillito during the prime 3–7 pm slot.

This is how I’ve walked my path in this beautiful world of radio—with perseverance, resilience, and the conviction that passion, when embraced fully, turns into a story that inspires and opens doors.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s all relative—everyone tells their story based on how things have gone for them. But I truly believe that if the road had been easy, I wouldn’t value my work, my profession, or my passion the way I do, nor would I have had the same drive to pursue my dream.

One of the biggest struggles has always been dealing with people who try to diminish your work. The media world is a competitive and sometimes jealous environment, often filled with envy. It can be very closed-off; many who have been in the industry for years are reluctant to share knowledge or pass on their legacy. But those challenges made me stronger, pushed me to carve my own path, and taught me to appreciate every opportunity I’ve been given.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Today, I continue working in the wonderful world of radio. I’m passionate about producing commercials, transmitting emotions through voice and sound, and making listeners imagine full scenes with just audio effects. That ability to paint pictures in the audience’s mind is one of my greatest skills and specialties.

For the past seven years, alongside my on-air work, I’ve also dedicated myself to training and mentoring new talent in Latino radio. I’ve helped aspiring broadcasters in Georgia, across the U.S., and even internationally, giving them the tools to project their voices professionally. I’ve also consulted for stations to improve their production and their connection with audiences.

Out of that work came my book, where I share years of experience and guide others through a much clearer path—helping them achieve in months what took me years to learn. (La Pinche Guía Perfecta para el Locutor Moderno, by the way is available in Amazon Books) That, for me, is legacy: leaving a mark on the next generation of broadcasters.

I’m recognized as a complete radio professional: I can host, produce, write, direct creatively, and train others. I take great pride in my career, every step I’ve taken, and in contributing to the story of Hispanic radio in Georgia.

What sets me apart is my authenticity and the passion I bring to everything I do. I’m not interested in copying formulas or imitating styles—my greatest strength lies in my originality, in my unique voice, and in the way I connect with people. For me, radio isn’t just a job—it’s a lifestyle. That wholehearted dedication is what has allowed me to build a strong career and a genuine reputation in the community.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My best advice for finding a mentor is to start by being clear about what you want to achieve. It’s not just about admiring someone—it’s about identifying a person who has already walked the path you aspire to take. Sometimes that mentor might not even be in your city or in your exact industry, but they should embody the values, vision, and experience that can inspire and guide you.

What has worked for me is approaching people with humility, respecting their time, and being willing to learn without assuming I know everything. I’ve had great mentors—some who guided me directly, and others who taught me simply by example, without even realizing it.

As for networking, the most valuable lesson I’ve learned is that it’s not about just “meeting people” or collecting business cards—it’s about building genuine relationships. I always try to give before I ask: to add value, to listen, to collaborate. That has opened doors for me and helped me grow in my career.

The key is authenticity. If you’re genuine, if your interest is real and not forced, people can sense it—and that’s what creates lasting connections.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @zorrillitoradio
• Facebook: @zorrillitoradio
• LinkedIn: @zorrillitoradio
• Twitter: @zorrillitoradio
• Youtube: @zorrillitoradio
• Soundcloud: @zorrillitoradio

Image Credits
Juan Carlos Yanez