When Jillian “JJ” Simmons arrived in Indianapolis nine years ago to host middays on WHHH-FM (96.3) there was a little uncertainty in the air. The station had been without two permanent radio hosts for a while. Fans were eagerly awaiting a personality they could not only familiarize themselves with but also someone they could count on being on air everyday.
What listeners found in Simmons was a sister friend; a sister they trusted to share intimate personal stories with on air, and a friend they couldn’t wait to party alongside on Friday nights.
Fans will have to prepare themselves to welcome a new midday host. Simmons announced Thursday she is leaving Indianapolis for WHHH-FM sister station KBXX-FM (97.9) in Houston. She will be the station’s new midday host from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“Indianapolis is the longest stay of my radio career,” said Simmons, who also served as the station’s assistant program director and host of “Freestyle” on Indy’s Music Channel. “The people I met when I moved here are like my family. However, I’m excited about Houston. It’s a good move for me.”
Simmons, a Cincinnati native, spent time hosting shows in Dayton, her hometown, and New York City before landing in Indianapolis. One of the first people she met was DJ Wrekk 1 who filled in the other station vacancy. Together, along with Jay Rio, they have been three of the most popular radio personalities in the city.
“JJ is definitely a big sister to me,” said DJ Wrekk 1. “We started at the same time and relied on each other a lot. We’re family and I will miss working together.”
Simmons is also well known for her work in the community, especially for providing education and awareness for HIV/AIDS. She’s worked extensively with The Indiana Minority AIDS Coalition and Bridging the Gap to ensure people are getting tested and those who have HIV or AIDS are receiving information on proper medication and housing benefits.
She is also the founder and president of the I’m Me Foundation that provides positive social experiences and character building training to young women through education and entertainment.
“I’ve always considered myself a balance to the music,” said Simmons. “I’ve been able to provide my listeners with something besides music during my show whether it’s education, community events or sharing my personal experiences. I’ve been able to share my life – good or bad – and let (listeners) see that this is me and I can relate to the people I talk to everyday.”
Media personality Kyla Woods who has worked alongside Simmons at WHHH and began a business together, Motivated Moms that produced events such as the Bellies and Babies Expo, also considers Simmons a sister friend.
“I am so proud of her not only for what she’s done, but for who she is,” said Woods. “Jillian has demonstrated an extreme amount of resiliency and perseverance, especially in the last few years. She is now stronger, wiser and better than ever. Her talent is undeniable and I can’t wait to see what possibilities await her in the future.”
