Introduction
Judi Franco is a well-known radio personality who has captured the hearts of New Jersey listeners for over three decades. Her warm voice and engaging personality have made her a household name on New Jersey 101.5 (WKXW-FM). She continues to co-host the popular midday show the “Dennis & Judi” show for decades and continues to be a major voice on the station.
Beyond her radio work, Franco is a talented actress, singer, artist, and devoted family woman. She balances her professional success with her deep commitment to her family, community and her creative passion. In 2025, many fans and media watchers want to know Judi Franco’s net worth, and her life style. Here is a detailed blog post which covers her Personal and professional life and achievements.
Judi Franco Net Worth
Judi Franco earns a healthy salary from her work at New Jersey 101.5. Based on industry estimates for radio personalities at her level, her annual salary ranges between twenty-four thousand and seventy-two thousand dollars. However, given her long tenure at one of New Jersey’s biggest radio stations and her status as a co-host of a top-rated show, her actual earnings likely fall on the higher end of this range or exceed it.
Her monthly income works out to approximately two thousand to six thousand dollars, while her daily earnings translate to roughly sixty-six to two hundred dollars. Beyond her radio salary, Franco generates additional income through her teaching position at Ilan High School, where she works as an adjunct instructor of public speaking. She also earns money from her Judi Franco Seminars and Interview Crash Course programs, which help job seekers improve their communication skills for interviews. In 2025, her estimated net worth is between $1 million – $5 million.
Income Breakdown Summary
| Income Period | Estimated Amount |
| Yearly Income | $24,292 – $72,507 |
| Monthly Income | $2,024 – $6,042 |
| Daily Income | $66 – $198 |
| Net Worth 2025 | $1 million – $5 million (Approx) |
Judi Franco at a Glance
Here is a quick overview of Judi Franco’s key information:
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Judi Franco |
| Profession | Radio Host, Broadcaster, Artist, Singer |
| Current Show | Midday Show on New Jersey 101.5 |
| Previous Show | The Dennis & Judi Show (1997-2025) |
| Current Co-Host | Eric “EJ” Johnson |
| Employer | Townsquare Media |
| Net Worth | $1 million – $5 million |
| Nationality | American |
| Birthplace | San Francisco, California |
| High School | Asbury Park High School (Graduated 1979) |
| College | Hofstra University |
| Major | Communications and Political Science |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Husband | Mark |
| Children | Four (including two daughters and son Joseph) |
| Grandchildren | Eight |
| Residence | Long Branch, New Jersey |
| Career Start | 1991 |
Early Years and Family
Judi Franco was born in San Francisco, California, where she spent her childhood surrounded by the entertainment industry. Her father, Joe Franco, and mother, Roz Franco, created a loving home environment that encouraged her creative talents from an early age. Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area during the nineteen sixties and seventies, young Judi showed an early passion for performing. She began her entertainment career as a child performer, appearing at the renowned Circle Star Theatre in San Carlos, California. This early exposure to show business planted the seeds for her future career in broadcasting and entertainment.
When Franco was a young teenager, her family made the significant decision to move from California to Deal, New Jersey. This move was motivated by their desire to be closer to the Syrian-Jewish community on the East Coast, which would make it easier for Franco and her four siblings to find suitable marriage partners within their cultural community. The family settled in the Long Branch area, where Franco attended Asbury Park High School and graduated in nineteen seventy-nine.
community theater
During her teenage years in New Jersey, Franco developed a strong interest in community theater. She appeared in productions at beloved local theaters including the Barn in Rumson, the Center Drama Workshop in Deal, and the Grant Avenue Players, which is now known as the Axelrod Theatre in Deal. These experiences helped her develop the performance skills and confidence that would later serve her well in her radio career.
Franco’s birthday falls in August, a month she shares with both her sister and her mother, making it a special time for family celebrations. The close-knit Franco family instilled in Judi a deep appreciation for family bonds, a value she carries with her to this day.
Judi Franco Husband
Judi Franco is happily married to her husband Mark, who is also a native of San Francisco. The couple shares a strong partnership built on mutual respect and shared cultural values. Mark comes from a Syrian-Jewish background just like Franco, with both of their families originally coming from Aleppo, Syria, before immigrating to the United States in the twentieth century. Mark is fluent in Arabic, a skill that comes in handy during the family’s travels to Israel, where they visit Arab markets.
The couple has been married for over thirty years and has built a beautiful life together in Long Branch, New Jersey. Franco has spoken openly about her marriage philosophy, explaining that she took her husband’s last name as a sign of respect and commitment to their partnership. She describes their relationship as one where she defers to Mark on many household decisions, following a more traditional family structure that she witnessed in her parents’ generation.
Educational Qualifications
Judi Franco received a well-rounded education that prepared her for her successful career in broadcasting. After graduating from Asbury Park High School in nineteen seventy-nine, Franco enrolled at Monmouth College, which is now known as Monmouth University. It was during her first semester there that she discovered her passion for radio.
While at Monmouth College, Franco found her way to the campus radio station WMCX, which broadcast at eighty-eight point one on the FM dial. She quickly became deeply involved with the station, serving in important roles as both music director and promotions director. These positions gave her valuable hands-on experience in radio operations and helped her develop the skills she would need for her professional career. Franco often credits her time at WMCX as the place where her love of radio was truly born.
Hofstra University
Franco later transferred to Hofstra University, where she continued her studies in communications and political science. This combination of majors gave her a strong foundation in media theory, public speaking, and understanding current events – all skills that would prove essential in her talk radio career. Her education in political science particularly helped her develop the analytical skills needed to discuss and debate political topics on air, something that would become a hallmark of her show.
Professional Life
Judi Franco’s professional life in radio began in nineteen ninety-one when a lucky break landed her first job in the industry. She was immediately smitten with radio work and knew she had found her calling. Her early radio experience included working as a traffic reporter for various radio stations across New Jersey, where her engaging personality quickly stood out.
Franco’s career took off as she moved through different stations, building her reputation and honing her craft. She worked at several notable stations including Seaview one-oh-seven, where she became known as “Jersey Judi,” and later at Oldies one-oh-seven point one in Long Branch. She also had stints at WPLJ and one-oh-five point one FM “The Buzz” in New York City, gaining valuable experience in major markets.
The turning point in Franco’s career
The turning point in Franco’s career came in nineteen ninety-seven when the management at New Jersey one-oh-one point five decided to pair her with veteran broadcaster Dennis Malloy. At first, Malloy was hesitant about having a co-host, and Franco was nervous about working with someone she admired. However, from their very first show together, the chemistry was instant and undeniable. Franco later described it as “perfect synergy” that created magic on the airwaves
The Dennis and Judi Show
The Dennis and Judi Show quickly became one of the most popular programs on New Jersey one-oh-one point five, drawing thousands of listeners every week. The show ran from ten in the morning until two in the afternoon on weekdays and became known for its mix of funny stories, listener interaction, and conservative political commentary. Franco and Malloy developed a unique dynamic that listeners loved – they were like best friends having a conversation, complete with disagreements, laughter, and genuine warmth.
Throughout their partnership, Dennis and Judi tackled a wide range of topics, from local New Jersey politics to national issues, pop culture, and everyday life experiences. They interviewed political leaders, discussed controversial topics, and created segments that became listener favorites. Their authenticity and willingness to share their personal lives on air created a strong bond with their audience.
New Jersey Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame
In November two thousand seventeen, Franco and Malloy received the ultimate recognition for their work when they were inducted into the New Jersey Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame. This honor celebrated their contribution to New Jersey radio and their impact on the broadcasting industry.
In June two thousand twenty-five, Dennis Malloy announced he would be stepping down from the daily show when his contract expired on July thirty-first, ending their remarkable twenty-eight-year partnership. The news was bittersweet for fans, but both hosts emphasized their continued friendship and gratitude for their time together. Franco continues her midday show on New Jersey one-oh-one point five, now co-hosting with Eric “EJ” Johnson.
Judi and the Jollybeans
Beyond her radio work, Franco has pursued several other professional ventures. She created “Judi and the Jollybeans,” a children’s musical that she performed with her two daughters in two thousand nine. The CD and accompanying songbook remain popular with children aged two to eight throughout New Jersey.
Franco also founded Judi Franco Seminars and developed the Interview Crash Course program. These initiatives emerged from her desire to help people during the two thousand nine recession, particularly those struggling to find employment. The programs focus on public speaking, verbal communication skills, and interview preparation – helping job seekers polish skills that have been lost in the digital age of texting and emailing. Franco also teaches public speaking as an adjunct instructor at Ilan High School in Ocean Township.
Major Achievements
Judi Franco’s career is filled with impressive accomplishments that showcase her talent and dedication to her craft. Her induction into the New Jersey Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame in November two thousand seventeen stands as one of her most prestigious honors, recognizing her significant contribution to New Jersey radio over more than two decades.
In two thousand twenty-two, Franco received a Gracie Award, a national honor that recognizes exemplary programming created by women in media. This award highlighted not only her success in a male-dominated industry but also her role as a trailblazer who has opened doors for other women in radio. Franco is recognized as an important figure in radio because she serves as a role model for women in the industry, proving that women can be successful and respected hosts who break down barriers.
Nielsen ratings data
Franco’s show with Dennis Malloy consistently ranked as one of the top-rated programs in the New Jersey market. According to Nielsen ratings data, the Dennis and Judi Show attracted approximately twenty-five thousand listeners weekly during its peak, making it the number one show in their time slot. These impressive ratings demonstrated the powerful connection Franco and her co-host created with their audience.
Throughout her career, Franco has been recognized for her versatility. She has successfully balanced multiple roles as a broadcaster, artist, singer, and community leader. Her children’s musical project “Judi and the Jollybeans” showcased her creative talents beyond radio, while her Interview Crash Course and public speaking seminars demonstrated her commitment to helping others succeed.
Sephardic Bikur Holim food pantry
Franco’s charitable work also deserves recognition as a major achievement. She volunteers regularly with the Sephardic Bikur Holim food pantry, which provides meals for thousands of needy families in Monmouth County. She has participated in numerous charity functions supporting organizations including the American Cancer Society, Monmouth Medical Center, Hand in Hand for kids, Autism Speaks, and Mary’s Place. Her advocacy work for cancer patients and their caregivers, inspired by her husband’s battle with lung cancer, has helped raise awareness and provide support to families facing similar challenges.
Being named to the Asbury Park High School Hall of Fame in two thousand eighteen further cemented Franco’s legacy as a successful alumna who has made her community proud. Her ability to maintain a successful thirty-plus-year career in the competitive radio industry while raising four children and maintaining her religious observance is itself a remarkable achievement.
Age, Height, Weight
While Judi Franco has been in the public eye for decades, she has chosen to keep certain personal details private. Her exact date of birth and age have not been publicly disclosed, though articles from two thousand twenty indicate she was fifty-nine years old at that time, which would place her birth year around nineteen sixty to nineteen sixty-one. Her birthday falls in August, a month she celebrates along with her mother and sister.
Franco stands at an average height and maintains a moderate weight. However, specific measurements regarding her height and weight have not been made public. Those who have seen her in person or at public events describe her as having a vibrant presence that commands attention. She has dark brown eyes and dark brown hair, features that complement her warm and engaging personality.
| Physical Attribute | Information |
| Age | Around 63-64 years (estimated) |
| Birthday Month | August |
| Height | Average (specific measurement not disclosed) |
| Weight | Moderate (specific measurement not disclosed) |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
professional appearance
Franco has always maintained a professional appearance while respecting her religious values. She is known for dressing stylishly, often wearing heels and fashionable skirts in accordance with her Syrian-Jewish observance. Her fashion choices reflect both modern style and traditional modesty.
Physical statistics aside, Franco’s real presence comes from her dynamic personality, quick wit, and genuine warmth that translates through the radio waves. Her voice has become familiar to thousands of New Jersey residents who have tuned in to hear her thoughts, stories, and perspectives over the years.
Judi Franco Social Profiles
Judi Franco maintains an active presence on social media, where she connects with fans, shares updates about her work, and provides glimpses into her personal interests. Her social media platforms allow her to extend her reach beyond radio and create a community of loyal followers.
On Instagram, Franco can be found at the handle @jerseyjudifranco. Her Instagram bio describes her as “Artist. Singer. Big Mouth. Radio person @nj1015” and directs followers to her art page @judichalmestudio. She also promotes her children’s music project “Judi & the Jollybeans” through her profile. With several thousand followers, Franco uses Instagram to share her artwork, behind-the-scenes moments from her radio show, family celebrations, and community involvement.
Connect with Judi Franco
- Instagram: @jerseyjudifranco
- Art Instagram: @judichalmestudio
- Twitter/X: @DennisandJudi or @NJ1015
- Radio Station: New Jersey 101.5 (WKXW-FM)
- Show Times: Weekdays 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Final Words
Judi Franco represents the best of what radio can be – authentic, engaging, and deeply connected to her community. Her journey from a child performer in San Francisco to one of New Jersey’s most beloved radio personalities is a testament to her talent, hard work, and genuine love for her craft. Franco has built a career that spans more than three decades, creating a lasting impact on New Jersey broadcasting.
Her net worth of one to five million dollars reflects her financial success, but Franco’s true wealth lies in the relationships she has built with her listeners, the love of her family, and the respect she has earned from her colleagues. She has touched thousands of lives through her radio show, her teaching, her charity work, and her willingness to share her own experiences and vulnerabilities on air.
Judi Franco’s story reminds us that success comes not just from talent but from authenticity, hard work, commitment to family and community, and the courage to be yourself no matter what. She is truly a New Jersey treasure whose legacy in broadcasting will be remembered for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Judi Franco’s net worth in 2025?
Judi Franco’s net worth is estimated to be between one million and five million dollars. She has built this wealth through her long career as a radio host at New Jersey one-oh-one point five, along with additional income from teaching, seminars, and her creative projects.
What happened to Dennis and Judi show?
Dennis Malloy announced in June two thousand twenty-five that he would step down from the Dennis and Judi Show when his contract expired on July thirty-first, two thousand twenty-five. The partnership lasted twenty-eight years. Judi Franco continues hosting the midday show on New Jersey one-oh-one point five with her new co-host Eric “EJ” Johnson.
What is Judi Franco’s salary?
Based on industry estimates, Judi Franco earns an annual salary ranging between twenty-four thousand and seventy-two thousand dollars from her radio work. However, her actual earnings likely fall on the higher end given her experience and the success of her show. She also earns additional income from teaching and her seminar programs.
What awards has Judi Franco won?
Judi Franco received a Gracie Award in two thousand twenty-two, recognizing exemplary programming created by women. She was also inducted into the New Jersey Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame in November two thousand seventeen along with Dennis Malloy. Additionally, she was inducted into the Asbury Park High School Hall of Fame in two thousand eighteen.
What is Judi and the Jollybeans?
“Judi and the Jollybeans” is a children’s musical that Franco created and performed with her two daughters in two thousand nine. The CD and accompanying songbook are popular with children aged two to eight throughout New Jersey and beyond.
Where can I listen to Judi Franco?
You can listen to Judi Franco on New Jersey one-oh-one point five (WKXW-FM) weekdays from ten in the morning to two in the afternoon. Her show can be heard on the radio, through the station’s website, or via podcast on platforms like Apple Podcasts.
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Henry Wise
As the lead writer at Worthliner.com, Henry Wise brings a keen insight into the world of celebrity net worth and lifestyles. With a passion for uncovering the financial journeys of high-profile personalities, Henry delves deep into the stories behind the success, wealth, and luxuries of famous figures across industries. His expertise lies in combining thorough research with engaging storytelling, making complex financial details both informative and enjoyable for readers. When he’s not writing, Henry enjoys exploring the latest trends in entertainment, business, and pop culture.
