How Rich Davis Turned Bold Moves into a 20-Year Career in Broadcasting

What do Bruno Mars and Henry Winkler have in common?

They both show up in behind-the-scenes stories shared by longtime broadcaster Rich Davis—stories that started with a bold internship pitch and a "cold" demo that was heard by an icon.

In this episode of No Wrong Choices, Rich walks us through the pivotal moments that shaped his 20+ year career in radio, podcasting, and TV—from asking for more than T-shirt duty to building a nationally syndicated show.

Along the way, he offers real insight into taking initiative, navigating career pivots, and sustaining creative partnerships in a constantly evolving media landscape. If you’re curious about how people create their own breaks and stay relevant in a fast-moving industry, this one’s packed with insight, humor, and behind-the-scenes gems.

From Folding T-Shirts to Front of the Mic

Rich's first big break didn't come through a job board or career fair—it came from raising his hand at just the right moment. As a college intern at WPLJ, he was expected to do the usual grunt work. But Rich had other ideas. He introduced himself to radio legend Scott Shannon, one of the biggest names in the business, and told him he wanted to learn. Not fold T-shirts. Not file promos. Just learn.

It was bold. It was risky. And it worked.

Scott said yes—and Rich suddenly found himself learning directly from a Hall of Fame-caliber broadcaster. That willingness to ask for more set the tone for everything that followed.

The Demo That Changed Everything

After college, Rich didn’t wait around for opportunities to come to him. He mailed out cold demo recordings to stations across the country, hoping someone would give an unknown kid a shot. Most didn’t respond.

But Top 40 icon Kid Kelly did. Not only did he listen—he picked up the phone. That simple act of recognition—a veteran taking a chance on a hungry newcomer—became another career-defining moment. It opened the door to Z100 and, later, a long run at SiriusXM.

"I just needed one person to say yes," Rich says in the episode. "And thankfully, that one person was Kid Kelly."

The Rise of Covino & Rich

One of Rich's smartest moves came when he teamed up with Steve Covino. Their chemistry was undeniable, and together they created Covino & Rich, a show that blended pop culture, sports, and sharp banter in a way that clicked with audiences.

They built the show from the ground up at SiriusXM, where it ran for years. When the opportunity came to take it to Fox Sports Radio, they didn’t hesitate. They knew how to evolve.

Rich credits the success of the partnership to shared ambition, trust, and knowing when to push each other creatively. Covino & Rich wasn’t just a show—it was a brand built on hustle, authenticity, and knowing your audience.

Beyond Radio: Podcasting, Parenting, and Staying Relevant

Rich has never stopped looking for the next opportunity. In addition to his daily work on SiriusXM's Pop2K and The Pulse, he co-hosts Have Kids They Said, a parenting podcast that reflects another part of his life.

His secret to staying relevant? Keep saying yes. Keep learning. Stay curious.

And yes, he shares the story of a backstage run-in that involved Bruno Mars, Henry Winkler, and a moment so random and wonderful you just have to hear it.

Key Takeaways:

• Be bold. Ask for the opportunity you want—even if it feels risky.

• Cold outreach still works when it’s authentic and well-timed.

• Creative partnerships can fuel long-term growth and evolution.

• Staying curious and adaptable is essential in media (and everywhere else).

• Sometimes all it takes is one person to say yes.

Listen to the Episode:
Want the full story? Listen to the Rich Davis episode of No Wrong Choices on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Rich Davis: Radio Hustle, On-Air Chemistry, and the Power of Saying Yes