Papa Keith takes on national role with iHeartMedia

South Florida radio veteran Papa Keith is stepping into a new national leadership role at iHeartMedia, expanding his influence beyond the airwaves while continuing his long-running commitment to culture, community, and Caribbean representation.

Effective June 27, Papa Keith will become National Brand Partnerships & Multicultural Specialist, where he will help develop strategic partnerships and multicultural initiatives aimed at connecting brands with diverse audiences across the United States.

After more than two decades as a fixture on Miami radio, his daily afternoon show on 103.5 The Beat will conclude on June 26. However, listeners will still hear him weekly on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., alongside his expanding Papa Keith Podcast, which highlights culture, entertainment, entrepreneurship, and community issues.

“This next chapter lets me continue doing what I’ve always loved, including building relationships, creating opportunities, supporting culture, and connecting people,” Papa Keith said. “Radio has been my foundation, but my mission has always been bigger than a microphone.”

The move comes during a year of recognition for the broadcaster. Earlier this month, during Caribbean American Heritage Month, City of Miramar Commissioner Yvette Colbourne honored Papa Keith for his contributions to South Florida media and his longstanding community advocacy.

Born in Brooklyn to Trinidadian parents, Papa Keith built his career in South Florida radio through early work on Miami’s underground station Mixx 96 and appearances on the influential Luke Show. He later became a prominent voice on 99 Jamz and 103.5 The Beat, earning industry recognition including Radio & Records’ “Jocks on the Rise” and multiple Miami New Times “Best Of” awards.

Over the years, he has interviewed major figures in music, sports, entertainment, business, and politics, while maintaining strong ties to grassroots communities across South Florida and the Caribbean diaspora.

Beyond mainstream radio, Papa Keith has also been a cultural advocate for Caribbean and hip-hop music, using platforms such as his Island Beat programming to spotlight reggae, dancehall, soca, and hip-hop artists. His work has helped strengthen South Florida’s identity as a hub where Caribbean and U.S. urban music cultures intersect.

His influence extends well beyond broadcasting. In 2017, he launched People Matter Fest, a community-focused music and social impact initiative aimed at reducing gun violence and creating opportunities for youth and families. The event’s signature 24-Hour Cease Fire campaign has encouraged peace efforts across Miami-Dade County and positioned the festival as a platform for community unity.

Today, People Matter Fest continues as an annual event reflecting his broader philosophy that media influence carries responsibility. Whether on air, behind the scenes, or in community spaces, Papa Keith has consistently used his platform to support emerging voices and advocate for safer neighborhoods.

As he transitions into his new national role at iHeartMedia, he will maintain his presence in South Florida radio and digital media while expanding his reach into multicultural brand strategy on a national scale.