Frank Cipolla’s story is one of resilience, focus, and a love for broadcasting that began in Queens, New York. Growing up as the youngest of four children, Cipolla became the first in his family to attend college, laying the groundwork for a career that would span over four decades. What makes his journey stand out is the clarity with which he approached life. At the age of 10, he already knew he wanted his voice heard on the radio and his face seen on television.
This early decision became a driving force behind Cipolla’s relentless pursuit of success. His childhood dream propelled him through his studies at St. John’s University, where he majored in journalism and communications. There, he gained his first taste of broadcasting as a member of both the Radio and TV clubs. In September 1977, Cipolla took the mic for the first time as a college DJ, igniting a passion that would never dim.
Though Cipolla had a clear vision, achieving it required grit, hard work, and sacrifice. During his time at St. John’s, he seized every opportunity to build his skills, securing internships at major stations like WPIX and WNBC Radio. His days were packed—rising at 5 a.m. to commute into the city for his internship, attending classes, and working part-time at a florist to make some extra money while in college. Despite the long hours and sleepless nights, Cipolla remained undeterred, knowing every experience was a step closer to his dream.
After graduating in 1980, Cipolla faced a sobering reality: breaking into broadcasting was no easy feat. He sent out 64 resumes and demo tapes to radio stations, each rejection stinging but never breaking his resolve. His persistence paid off when he landed his first full-time job at WCRV-AM, a small country music station in New Jersey. This modest beginning proved essential to his growth.
At WCRV, Cipolla worked tirelessly to improve his on-air presence. He practiced getting rid of his thick New York accent and reviewed each newscast to refine his delivery. While it wasn’t glamorous, this chapter served as a reminder that success often requires humble beginnings and a willingness to learn.
Two years into his role at WCRV, Cipolla felt ready for the next challenge. He actively sought guidance from veteran broadcasters he admired, sending his demo tapes to industry icons for feedback. This strategy not only helped him improve but also opened doors to bigger opportunities.
Cipolla’s tenacity paid off when he landed a position at WJDM in Elizabeth, New Jersey, as the morning anchor on the “Bosh & Cipolla Show.” His mornings were spent delivering the news, while his afternoons were dedicated to networking, often traveling to Manhattan to meet influential media figures. Cipolla believed success in broadcasting required both skill and behind-the-scenes strategy.
At WJDM, he began filing reports for WNBC, earning $10 for each aired story. This opportunity came to fruition in 1986 during the July 4th weekend when the News Director at WNBC offered him a chance to anchor the news that weekend. Cipolla had set a personal deadline of being on air in New York by 30; this call came when he was 27.
With momentum from his WNBC role, Cipolla’s career took off. After the weekend anchor moved to D.C., Cipolla was promoted to full-time weekend news anchor and soon became a weekday anchor on the “Soupy Sales Radio Show,” often filling in for “Imus in the Morning.” This not only solidified his place in New York’s competitive media market but also brought him face-to-face with some of his childhood idols.
Radio opened the door to television, and Cipolla made the leap seamlessly. His first TV role was as a talk show host at Staten Island Cable, leading to co-anchoring the morning show at News 12 New Jersey. After five successful years, Cipolla moved to UPN 9 News in New York City, working alongside Rolland Smith, a broadcaster he had admired as a child.
This period was marked by professional growth and personal fulfillment, as he transitioned from the wide-eyed kid dreaming of the radio waves to a seasoned professional shaping the industry.
Full Circle: Reflecting on the Journey
In a twist of fate, Cipolla found himself working alongside Gary Nunn—an esteemed anchor he had long admired—at the Wall Street Journal Radio Network. Although Nunn didn’t need mentoring, Cipolla had the opportunity to assist him in learning the network’s format, where Nunn was joining part-time on a freelance basis. The moment was a humbling and deeply meaningful one for Cipolla, as he reflected on how Nunn had once guided him early in his career. Now, years later, they stood side by side as colleagues, a testament to the power of perseverance and professional growth.
Frank Cipolla’s story exemplifies resilience, vision, and mentorship. From a boy in Queens with a dream to a prominent broadcaster in one of the world’s most competitive markets, Cipolla’s journey has been shaped by his unwavering commitment to his craft. He reminds us that success is not just about talent but also about hard work, seeking guidance, and staying focused on our goals.
Reflecting on his journey, Cipolla shares, “If you can think it — you can do it.” He believes that visualizing what you can achieve means that, in your mind, it has already happened. “It makes it real. I have found that once you visualize the possible, the universe commands the forces to make it happen. But you must first think it and then chase the dream.”
Today, Cipolla continues to influence the media world as a media coach and consultant, helping others navigate the complexities of broadcasting with the same passion and focus that defined his career. His legacy is one of determination, excellence, and the belief that with the right mindset, anything is possible.
