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Keepin’ It Country at Real Roots Radio

by Ella Smith, Student Public Relations Writer – July 7, 2025

Country music lovers can catch Cedarville University senior Payton Burdette every Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. on “The New Roots Rundown” on Real Roots Radio 100.3 FM

Country music lovers can catch Cedarville University senior Payton Burdette every Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m. on “The New Roots Rundown” on 100.3 FM. Burdette, with his deep passion for the genre, shares the latest hits and stories, giving listeners a front-row seat to the vibrant world of country music. 

Burdette’s journey from writing commercials to becoming an on-air talent is a testament to his creative drive and adaptability. A native of Xenia, Ohio, Burdette came to Cedarville with dreams of scriptwriting and a love for comedy. As a sophomore, he became president of LOL, the university's improv comedy group, where he learned to think on his feet and entertain live audiences. He credits this experience for preparing him for radio. 

"Improv with LOL helped me think on my feet, and radio is a lot like improv," Burdette said. "Having that background gave me confidence on air." 

After spending a year writing commercials and creating content for Real Roots Radio, Burdette was asked to fill in as on-air talent for the “Keepin’ It Country” program. He describes his current role as host of “The New Roots Rundown” as an exciting blend of his talents, combining his scriptwriting background with the spontaneity of live radio. 

“I love getting to meet so many talented country and bluegrass musicians," said Burdette as he reflected on meeting musicians like , an inductee of the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame. "My favorite part is seeing their passion for music, hearing their stories and interacting with them in a way that makes listeners feel as if they are in the studio with us.” 

Originally hoping to pursue a career as a screenwriter for TV, Burdette has found a new passion in radio, realizing how God can lead him down unexpected paths.

Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduateprograms across arts, sciences, and professional fields. With 6,384 students, it ranks among Ohio's largest private universities and is recognized by The Wall Street Journal as being among the nation’s top three evangelical universities. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. Learn more at cedarville.edu.