Meet the Founder

JJ BLACKSHAW
Owner | Founder | On-Air Personality

My name is JJ Blackshaw, and I’ve spent the last 7+ years in radio as an on-air personality, programmer, and senior sales lead. During my time working across Cheyenne radio stations, I built loyal audiences, helped increase female listenership by over 300%, and consistently ranked at the top in sales performance and client growth.

Outside of radio, I’m a proud wife, a mom of three, an animal lover, and a passionate supporter of our local community. I’m also the co-founder of the RISE Foundation of Wyoming, where I’ve helped provide Thanksgiving meals for military families and organized community drives in support of veterans and those who serve.

I started Hardwired Radio because I saw a real gap in local media. Traditional radio has become increasingly corporate — driven by automated playlists and out-of-market programming — leaving little room for authentic voices, local music, or stories that truly reflect the community. I wanted to build something different. Something Live. Local. Loud. Built in Cheyenne, for Cheyenne.

This work matters deeply to me because radio has always been about connection. Hardwired Radio isn’t just about playing music — it’s about supporting local artists, lifting up nonprofits like the RISE Foundation of Wyoming and We Matter 2 Pet Rescue, and showing up for the people and causes that make our community special. Hardwired is more than a station — it’s a platform for connection, creativity, and community.

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Nate McDonald is a huge part of the Hardwired Radio Group and the creative force behind much of our visual identity. As our photographer, designer, and merch guru, Nate brings Hardwired to life through powerful visuals, clean design, and high-quality branded gear.

Through his work with Nate Mc Photo, Nate captures the moments, energy, and people that make Hardwired what it is — from live events and community partnerships to branding visuals that define our look and feel. From event photography and design to creating and printing all of our hats, t-shirts, and merchandise, Nate plays an essential role in how Hardwired shows up in the world.

More than anything, Nate genuinely believes in the Hardwired vision and in supporting local businesses and community projects. He’s always willing to jump in, lend a hand, and help bring ideas to life — and he somehow manages to make it all fun along the way. Hardwired Radio Group simply wouldn’t be what it is without his talent, support, and friendship.

Meet the Crew

Nate McDonald

Creative Partner | Photographer | Designer | Merch

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Alex Blackshaw has been a constant source of support in building Hardwired Radio Group from the ground up. From long days and late nights to big ideas and bigger challenges, his encouragement, belief, and steady presence have made this journey possible. While he may not always be in the spotlight, his role behind the scenes is an essential part of Hardwired’s foundation.

Behind-the-Scenes Support

Alex Blackshaw

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