Meet the Team

Billy Fried

Chairman and Chief Listening Officer

What brought me to this little enterprise was believing that radio could be the 21st century town square. I spent my career in media and marketing, most recently as an opinion columnist at the Laguna Beach Independent and radio talk show host of “Laguna Talks” on this station. And what I’ve learned is the importance of listening, because everyone has a story. And listening to people tell theirs is frankly the most interesting thing in the world to me. And if we all just listened more, we would discover that we more alike than different – and get along a whole lot better.

Jonathan Tufano

General Manager and Chief Vinyl Officer

Originally from Connecticut, Jonathan got his start on the airwaves at WHUS 91.7 UCONN college and commercial free radio; spinning his records on the 4 – 6 am Saturday morning shift.  Upon moving to Southern California, he heard word of a local non profit community oriented radio station called KXFM broadcasting live right here in Laguna Beach.  He could hardly believe his good fortune to discover such a rare pearl.  Jonathan joined the station in June of 2014 graciously accepting the mantle of KX’s resident Vinylcologist, he has been spinning records ever since, mostly on Thursday evenings.  When he’s not sharing music and good vibes through the radio waves, Jonathan enjoys training Jiu Jitsu, a long standing passion of his; flexing his culinary skills in the kitchen and traveling near and far seeking the next addition to his record collection.

Lex Simonton

Director of Operations & Community Relations

Born in SoCal, bred in Brooklyn. I made my prodigal return to the West Coast at the beginning of 2024. There really is nothing quite like the sunset over the Pacific, am I right?

I met Billy shortly thereafter and was instantly captivated and energized by his community-centered vision for KXFM. Nowadays we yearn for more connection and presence. My hope is that we can serve as the conduit for others to share, learn and come together.

I’d been spending my free time exploring the multi-faceted music scene in New York (equipped with my dancing shoes of course). Feet aching as I trudged through the door was the sign of a good time. Now I’ve been called back to the water. Never did I think I’d end up working at a radio station in Laguna Beach of all beautiful places, but I am delighted to be here, helping ferry this local hub into its new era. I promise to handle it with utmost care. x

Jason Feddy

Director of Programming & Production

Born and raised in Leeds, UK. Jason paid his musical dues in the ’80’s in the working men’s clubs and pubs that have spawned so much British talent. For 5 years Jason co-hosted KXFM’s daily morning show, with the station’s founder, Tyler Russel. His love of the town, down-to-earth wit and keen sense of the ridiculous have made him a legend in Laguna’s media.

Living in town for 25 years now, Feddy brings an outsider’s eye and an insider’s heart to his approach to Laguna radio. “The culture of British radio is different,” says Feddy. “We tend toward the conversational. Honestly, I just want to connect with my neighbors and have fun.”

“I can’t wait to be back on the air – our new team is enthusiastic and capable and laser focussed on bringing the best possible community radio to Laguna.”