For decades, Dallas listeners woke up to the familiar, resonant voice of Willis Johnson on KKDA-AM’s “Soul 73.” His morning show was more than a soundtrack to the day—it was a trusted community forum. Johnson informed, inspired, and connected thousands through conversations that blended culture, politics, local issues, and everyday life. But while many remember him as a beloved radio figure, Johnson’s evolution from broadcaster to CEO reveals a deeper story—one about influence, relationships, strategic vision, and a legacy built to last.
Today, as the founder and CEO of JBJ Management, Johnson leads one of the region’s most respected public engagement and government relations firms. And his journey, as he explains, was “a natural transition.”
Johnson began his radio career in 1976, joining a station deeply rooted in Dallas-Fort Worth’s African American community. Mentored by legendary broadcaster Tom Joyner, he became a staple voice for more than 35 years. His time on the air sharpened his understanding of the community’s needs and connected him with a generation of leaders, activists, and everyday citizens.
“This field was a natural transition for me because our firm is based on public engagement, and that was a big part of what we did at KKDA,” Johnson shared. “We were a radio station that was in the street… and as radio changed, I started interviewing elected officials. It was natural for me to delve into government relations.”
That blend of on-the-ground engagement and political awareness laid the groundwork for his entrepreneurial leap.
In 1995, encouraged by figures like former Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk, Johnson launched JBJ Management. Instead of shifting away from his radio persona, he built upon it—drawing from the credibility, trust, and deep community relationships he’d spent decades cultivating.
Still, transitioning careers after nearly 36 years behind the mic wasn’t without its nerves.
“Change is always a challenge… but by the grace of God, JBJ Management has been special,” Johnson reflected.
Some wondered whether he would buy the station or pursue internet radio. Yet for Johnson, that chapter had reached its natural conclusion. “There is a season for all things… it was time to do something else, and I could not be happier.”
Like many entrepreneurs, Johnson faced early hurdles—particularly cash flow and pricing confidence. But he learned quickly that knowing the value of his work was essential.
“The biggest struggle was understanding my strengths and charging the right amount of money. When you are small but effective, you must have the confidence to say ‘this is my fee’ and stick with it.”
That mindset, backed by decades of earned trust, fueled JBJ’s growth across Dallas, Houston, Austin, Atlanta—and an upcoming expansion into Fort Worth.
