Why Joey Boy of "The Morning Mess" is coming home to Phoenix. And what it means for the show

Bill Goodykoontz, Arizona Republic
·2 min read
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“Joey Boy” Rodriguez is returning to Phoenix, bringing changes to “The Morning Mess” on Live 101.5 in the Valley.

The popular co-host of the radio show heard simultaneously on Live 101.5 in Phoenix and B96 in Chicago, made the announcement in an Instagram post on Tuesday, Aug. 22.

“I’ve decided to take my ‘talents’ back to Phoenix!!” Rodriguez posted, using a riff on LeBron James’ announcement that he would take his basketball talents to Miami in 2010.

The show originated in Phoenix in 2014. Rodriguez, and the show, moved to Chicago in March 2022 and broadcast from there, but it continued to be heard in Phoenix.

“I have made a personal decision to come back HOME,” Rodriguez said in the post. “First to be with ALL my kids and loved ones. And secondly, to focus on my well being, as well as my attention on the Valley. Rockin’ for you Mornings, on Live 101.5!!”

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The move is about more than the show for Rodriguez

"About six months in, I got into a funk," Rodriguez told The Arizona Republic. Through doctor visits and Zoom calls with his therapist, Rodriguez realized he was depressed, he said. He missed his family and friends, as well as listeners.

"So (I) spoke to both managements in both markets and spoke to them about my mental health and why I needed to head back to Phoenix," he said. "They were very understanding and here I am."

What is 'The Morning Mess?'

"The Morning Mess" is a morning radio show hosted by Rodriguez, Aneesh Ratan, Jeana Shepard, and Karla Hernandez.

Rodriguez said that the other members of "The Morning Mess" crew will continue doing the show in Chicago.

As for him, “Already have some DOPE talent I’m talking to, for the new MESS!!” Rodriguez posted. “I hope to have your support during the transition.”

A spokesperson for Audacy, the company that owns Live 101.5, declined comment. A source at the company said that there would be “more to share” in the coming days about the future of the Phoenix show.

Reach Goodykoontz at bill.goodykoontz@arizonarepublic.com. Facebook: facebook.com/GoodyOnFilm. X, formerly known as Twitter: @goodyk.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: What happened to 'The Morning Mess?' Joey Boy comes home to Phoenix