Morning Rock Ride with The Milkman
The Milkman is… John Mielke!
The Mielke name is of German origin, and our Milkman is excited to be part of a community renowned for Oktoberfest!
Born in Ottawa, Milkman is one of the best known names in radio circles hosting shows on stations across North America. His voice is also heard on commercials that have aired on major networks, informercials and on hold messages.
He was the host in the Team Canada tent for the world junior championships, and the in-arena announcer for the NHL All Star Game in Ottawa! He also taught on air performance at Algonquin College, and is a much sought after podcast consultant and producer.
Growing up on the pop hits of the 70s, he was introduced to classic rock in grade 6 when students were invited to bring in a few of their favourite albums to play for a graduation party. John brought Shaun Cassidy and The Bay City Rollers. His classmates were not impressed. On that day they introduced him to Led Zeppelin, Max Webster, Boston, Kiss and countless other bands that were only played on FM radio at the time.
Not owning an FM radio, he asked for one for Christmas and it instantly sparked an immersive education in, and passion for, classic rock, as well as an ongoing love affair with the incredible artists you hear on FM 98.5 every day!
An outspoken advocate for mental health, he has raised thousands of dollars for various charities, most especially crisis hotlines. In the summer, he travels across eastern Canada in an RV to raise awareness, facilitate conversations, in the hopes of ending the stigmas around mental health. An inspirational book, detailing his own experience with depression and anxiety is forthcoming.
A nature photographer and animal lover, Milkman can often be found at the dog park walking his Bernese/Lab rescue Keltie, and being a full time slave to his cat, Moo.
