Meet the Founder

JJ BLACKSHAW
Owner | Founder | On-Air Personality

A woman with long brown hair wearing sunglasses, a black denim jacket, and bright yellow pants, sitting on metal stairs in an urban alleyway.

Meet the Crew

Nate McDonald

Creative Partner | Photographer | Designer | Merch

Behind-the-Scenes Support

Alex Blackshaw

My name is JJ Blackshaw, and after more than six years in radio as an on-air personality, programmer, and senior sales lead, I knew it was time to bring something new — and something real — back to country radio in Wyoming.

After working across Cheyenne stations and helping grow both audiences and local businesses, I saw a growing disconnect. Country radio had drifted away from the stories, voices, and values that define the West. Corporate playlists and out-of-town programming were replacing the authenticity that makes country music matter.

That’s why I launched Hardwired Country — a station built in Cheyenne, for Cheyenne. Live. Local. Loud. We celebrate the sound and spirit of our community, from the music we play to the people we support.

Hardwired Country is about more than great country music from the ’90s to today. It’s about connection — lifting up local artists, supporting organizations like The RISE Foundation of Wyoming and We Matter 2 Pet Rescue, and giving our community a place where real country still lives.

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.

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.