Ep. 4 - Cutter

In this episode of Talking Between the Songs, I’m joined by one of rock radio’s hardest-working voices — Cutter. Known for WAPL Mornings with Laura Lee and Cutter, the nationally syndicated Cutting Edge Countdown, and the interview-driven Cutter’s Rockcast, Cutter shares the path that took him from a small Wisconsin town to becoming a respected presence in rock and metal broadcasting. Recorded prior to the passing of legendary broadcaster Rick McNeil, this conversation also serves as a heartfelt look back at Rick’s influence, the legacy of Rick and Cutter, and the lasting mark he left on rock radio and the people who worked alongside him. Cutter opens up about building a syndicated show from the ground up, surviving industry layoffs, and why connecting with listeners matters more than chasing trends. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from decades in radio, unforgettable moments interviewing rock icons, and the realities of balancing creativity, family life, and multiple major projects at once. We talk about: • The real story behind the name “Cutter” • Lessons learned from working with Rick McNeil • Building the Cutting Edge Countdown without corporate backing • How radio layoffs reshape careers and force reinvention • Why small-market stations still matter in national music charts • Interviewing legends like Lemmy and unforgettable rock stories • Growing up in Wisconsin and building a career without leaving home • Balancing morning radio, national syndication, podcasting, and family life Whether you’re deep in the radio industry, a rock music fan, or someone curious about the voices behind the mic, this episode delivers insight, humor, and genuine perspective from someone who lives and breathes the format.