Nicole Sweeney

Nicole’s journey with WRTI began in 2004, when she walked into the station as an intern and walked out with a lifelong passion. In her early days, she had the privilege of learning from radio legends like Bob Perkins and Harrison Ridley Jr., whose mentorship shaped her love for jazz and her approach to radio. Since then, she has built an expansive career in jazz broadcasting, hosting shows on esteemed stations such as WCLK, WBGO and SiriusXM. Her engaging commentary, knowledge of jazz, and deep connection with listeners have earned her a respected place in the jazz community and since spring 2025, with listeners of WRTI’s Evening Jazz, which Nicole hosts every Monday through Thursday from 6-10 p.m.

A proud Temple University alum (she holds a B.A. in Broadcasting, Telecommunications & Mass Media), Nicole considers Philadelphia her second home and is deeply committed to showcasing the city’s thriving jazz scene. Whether spinning timeless classics or introducing fresh voices, she strives to connect the dots between musicians, history and the audience to ensure that every listener (whether a jazz novice or an aficionado) feels engaged and inspired. She thrives on strengthening WRTI’s relationship with its audience through live events, discussions and outreach programs, and is particularly passionate about the intersections of jazz with R&B, soul, and hip-hop, highlighting the dynamic evolution of music and bridging generational gaps through shared cultural experiences. This passion is on full display during First Fridays, which she hosts on the first Friday of every month from 8-10 p.m.

In addition to broadcasting, Nicole’s interests and expertise include music branding, artist promotion and educational programs, and she continually seeks to deepen her understanding of jazz history and culture through initiatives like the Jazz Cabbage podcast and educational workshops at Jazz at Lincoln Center. Her mission is to elevate jazz culture, promote musical diversity and preserve jazz’s rich legacy through the transformative power of broadcasting, and she is dedicated to making jazz accessible and engaging for all audiences. Tune-in to hear Nicole on WRTI and join her on a journey through the rich world of jazz — where every note tells a story, and every listener is part of the experience.