Richmond Mornings: Barry Farmer & Mike King, Two Lanes, One City
Richmond radio has no shortage of big personalities, but few stories feel as perfectly timed as the parallel rise of Barry Farmer and Mike King. Both launched their morning shows in the summer of 2019, just a month apart, each stepping into the space with a clear purpose, a strong voice, and the kind of work ethic that does not need a spotlight to be obvious.
Mike King greets the city before most alarms ever ring. As the host of “On The Mic with Mike,” a two hour morning show on ESPN Richmond, he is live at 5:00 AM Monday through Friday, bringing energy and consistency to early risers who want to start their day informed and focused. It is a demanding schedule that requires discipline and repetition, and Mike has built a reputation as someone who shows up every day ready to deliver.
On a different dial, but with the same commitment, Barry Farmer has created a morning destination of his own. The Barry Farmer Morning Show with Sharon Lizzy on K101.2 Richmond airs at 7:00 AM Monday through Friday, blending conversation, culture, community, and connection, an experience built not just around what is happening, but around who Richmond is. Barry’s brand has grown through tireless effort, relationship building, and a clear belief that radio can still be personal, local, and impactful.
Because their worlds run on tight clocks and different formats, their paths rarely cross. They know each other, respect each other, and operate in the same city, but seeing them in the same space is uncommon. That rarity is exactly why some people outside the rooms might assume a morning show rivalry. In truth, the opposite is more accurate. These are two professionals who have created their own lanes in Richmond radio, each serving distinct audiences while building brands that stand on their own.
That is what makes this moment such a treat. Mike King and Barry Farmer sharing the cover of B Lifestyle Magazine is more than a photo opportunity. It is a snapshot of Richmond’s media growth in real time. Two hosts, two platforms, one city, both working relentlessly since the summer of 2019 to become staples in the morning rhythm of Richmond, Virginia.
