Mike Mulligan has long been a key voice on WSCR-AM (670 The Score) in the Chicago sports radio scene. His role on the Mully & Haugh Show places him firmly in the spotlight of Chicago’s sports talk show world.
In this article, we’ll examine his contract terms, break down his net worth analysis, and trace how he built his media empire. By the end, you’ll see how his radio broadcasting career, ratings, and income strategies fit together in real numbers and context.
Mike Mulligan & 670 The Score: A Snapshot
To the top of the heap, Mike Mulligan ascended and made himself a permanent and long-lasting presence at 670 The Score, Chicago. As the major figure of the Mully & Haugh Show, he is matched up with David Haugh, combining his sports journalism background and being a personality on the radio.
670 The Score (WSCR-AM) is the pride of Chicago when it comes to sports radio and has the biggest share of male 25-54 listeners in the area, to which it owes its birth under Audacy (which was previously Entercom). It’s Audacy’s strategy of pouring money into local radio, syndication, and digital platforms that determines the how contracts and compensation are made.
Mulligan’s duties are varied as he operates in the capacity of: co‑host, personality, and at the same time a sort of moderator/facilitator for guests, and local influencer in the coverage of sports in Chicago. His longevity gives him leverage that few newer hosts enjoy.
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The 670 The Score Contract: Terms & Evolution
Because radio contracts are seldom public, some parts of Mulligan’s contract terms remain private. Still, we can infer key elements and reconstruct possible evolution from available reporting.
Contract Duration & Renewals
- Mulligan’s long tenure suggests multiple renewals.
- When his longtime partner Brian Hanley left, it marked a shift in station management’s priorities.
- The choice not to renew Hanley’s contract might reflect broader contract restructuring at WSCR/Audacy.
Key Clauses & Protections
Likely features in Mike Mulligan’s contract (based on industry norms for top hosts):
- Exclusivity / Non‑compete: He probably can’t host or appear regularly on competitor stations or overlapping markets.
- Termination & buyout: If the station ends the contract early, there may be a buyout clause.
- Performance metrics: Ratings thresholds or audience share may trigger bonuses or contract reviews.
- Renewal windows & renegotiation rights: After certain years, either side may trigger a renegotiation.
Performance Metrics & Benchmarks
Stations often tie renewals or bonuses to metrics like:
- Host ratings in the 5 a.m.–9 a.m. window
- Audience engagement, including call-ins, social media metrics
- Sponsorship/ad revenue performance
- Station market share, especially in the male 25–54 demographic
It’s reasonable to assume contract terms for Mulligan include these metrics.
Salary, Compensation & Benefits
Public sources haven’t confirmed Mulligan’s exact salary. Still, industry context and estimations help paint a picture.
Base Salary & Bonus Structure
- A site estimates leading Chicago radio hosts might command as much as $500,000 to $1 million annually in major markets.
- Mulligan likely earns a base salary supplemented by performance bonuses tied to ratings or advertiser revenue growth.
- Some reports place his net worth or earnings in the mid millions, implying strong annual income.
Extra Money: Perks & Side Agreements
- Signing bonuses when renewing contracts
- Appearance fees or paid guest spots
- Royalties or residuals when show segments are repackaged
- Non‑cash benefits like health insurance, retirement plan contributions, travel, and paid conferences
Non-Monetary Benefits
In a contract of his stature, Mulligan likely receives:
- Premium healthcare
- Retirement or 401(k) matching
- Travel and lodging for remote broadcasts
- Expense accounts for guest coordination, studio tech, etc.
Comparison: Salary Range in Local Radio
To put Mulligan’s compensation in perspective, local radio hosts outside top markets often make in the tens of thousands to the low six figures. But in Chicago, local radio salaries scale dramatically higher depending on ratings, tenure, and bargaining power.
Network & Affiliate Relationships
A host’s contract doesn’t function in isolation; it intertwines with broadcasting agreements, station ownership, and revenue splits.
Ownership & Parent Network
670 The Score operates under Audacy, which oversees many radio stations across the U.S. The station has leverage because it’s part of a larger network, giving it access to syndication and cross‑platform scalability.
Broadcast Agreements & Syndication
- Some shows or segments may be syndicated beyond Chicago—this can generate extra income.
- The station may enter content licensing deals, where bits of Mulligan’s show are sold to affiliates or digital platforms.
Revenue Splits
Mulligan’s contract probably includes provisions on how revenue from syndication, ad bundles, or digital spin‑offs gets shared between him and 670 The Score.
Roles of Publishers, Performers & Partners
- Publishers/show producers may negotiate cut‑sharing with hosts on ad deals.
- Performers/guest talent may have revenue-sharing or appearance agreements.
- The station management decides how much room hosts have to bring in sponsor deals, which in turn influences media compensation structures.
Career Income Streams Beyond Base Pay
Mulligan’s base salary likely forms the core of his income, but like many media personalities, he likely has several additional revenue streams.
Advertising & Sponsorship Deals
- He may carry host‑endorsed ads or branded segments.
- Local businesses may sponsor portions of the Mully & Haugh Show for a premium.
Appearances & Speaking Gigs
- Guest appearances at events or conferences
- Paid keynote speaking, panel participation
Digital & Media Extensions
- Podcast versions or extra digital content
- Social media monetization or exclusive content access
- Ad revenue from digital clips or replays
Equity & Business Stakes
- Mulligan may hold equity in content ventures or invest in related media startups.
- Stock trades are publicly tracked under a slightly different “Michael J. Mulligan” identity: for example, he was listed as owning over 10,000 units of Appian Corp stock in one report, and making $160,000 as an independent director.
Profit-Sharing & Back-End Deals
- Mulligan may receive profit sharing from show-level revenue or digital repurposing
- His contract likely provides him with participation in any future syndication gains
Revenue, Profitability & Cash Flow
Understanding Mulligan’s personal finances requires viewing the station’s ecosystem of revenues and costs.
How 670 The Score Makes Money
- Advertisements (local, regional, national)
- Sponsorship packages around shows or segments
- Digital platforms/streaming
- Syndication or affiliate licensing
Cost Structure
- Studio operations, engineering, and bandwidth
- Talent pay (hosts, producers, staff)
- Content acquisition, sports rights (if relevant)
- Marketing, sales, legal, and administrative overhead
Mulligan’s Share vs Station Margins
- Mulligan’s contract likely guarantees a floor amount plus upside based on performance, but leaves the station with a margin after costs
- His side income streams (digital, appearance, stock) raise his total profitability above base pay
Cash Flow Timing & Risks
- Revenue flows may vary with sports seasons, advertising cycles, or ratings swings
- Contract renewal risk may impact long-term cash flow certainty
- Digital or syndication deals might pay with lag (delayed payouts)
Net Worth Breakdown & Asset Analysis
Let’s dig into what’s known about Mike Mulligan’s net worth analysis, along with his assets, investments, and potential liabilities.
Net Worth Estimate
- Wallmine places “Michael J. Mulligan” net worth at ~$6.92 million (based partly on stock holdings and director pay)
- Some profiles claim figures in the $10 million range, though those are less substantiated.
- Given his stage in career and earnings trajectory, a mid‑single‑digit million net worth is plausible
Assets & Investments
- Public record of Appian Corp stock trades (suggesting he invests in equities)
- Real estate holdings in the Chicago metro area (though not publicly confirmed)
- Retirement accounts, pension / 401(k), mutual funds
- Personal assets: vehicles, home, valuables
Liabilities & Risks
- Mortgages or property debt
- Taxes (especially capital gains, contract income)
- Contract risk—if the station fails or restructures
- Media industry risks: ratings drops, platform shifts
Risk Exposure
- Radio is shifting: streaming, podcast competition, ad dollars migrating
- If station contracts shrink or renewals become harsher, some income could vanish
- Investment portfolio risk (market volatility)
Broadcasting Career: Key Milestones & Achievements
To understand Mulligan’s weight in the industry, we trace his broadcasting path, key moments, and standing.
Early Career & Evolution
- He came from a journalism background, writing for the Chicago Sun-Times before transitioning to radio
- That journalistic credibility helped him anchor discussions on-air with depth
Partnership with Hanley & Shift to Mornings
- Mulligan was paired with Brian Hanley for the midday show under the station’s management decision.
- Over time, they moved into the morning slot and built a loyal base
- Their 13-year run ended when Hanley’s contract was not renewed, signaling internal changes.
Notable Recognition & Moments
- Mulligan has been praised for his authenticity, candor, and consistency
- He often bridges journalism and radio, using sports coverage credibility when critiquing teams or positions
- His voice is part of Chicago’s sports media identity
Work Beyond 670 The Score
- He contributes to print/digital journalism, leveraging his journalism background
- Potential guest spot appearances, syndicated content, or cross‑platform contributions
Personal & Professional Profile
To round out the portrait, here’s what we know about Mulligan’s life off-mic, education, and affiliations.
Education & Early Life
- Mulligan studied at Loyola University (as reported in media profiles)
- His journalism roots began in Chicago print media
Professional Affiliations & Activities
- He has ties to the Chicago Sun-Times, producing content or commentary
- Membership in media organizations, possibly broadcasting associations
- Speaking engagements, events, and panels in Chicago’s sports media scene
Public Persona & Branding
- Mulligan brands himself as someone honest, direct, and fair—he has spoken publicly about the tension between criticism and respect.
- His co-host partnerships, particularly with Haugh, shape his on-air presence
Role in Co-Host Dynamics
- His co-host partnership with David Haugh brings journalistic depth and conversational balance
- The chemistry between them supports listener loyalty and helps negotiate advertiser support
Challenges, Risks & Future Outlook
Even high-performing media personalities face headwinds. Let’s map Mulligan’s challenges and where he might head next.
Industry Headwinds & Modern Media Trends
- Radio faces stiff competition from podcasts, streaming, and platforms with global reach
- Ad revenue is increasingly split among platforms; terrestrial radio must adapt
- Audience habits shift faster than infrastructure can
Contract Risk & Renewal Pressures
- Station management changes could force contract revisions or cuts
- A weakened ratings quarter or advertiser loss might lead to renegotiation
Investment & Portfolio Risk
- His stock holdings or business ventures must weather market cycles
- If too concentrated, a downturn could affect his net worth
Growth Opportunities
- Expanding digital presence (podcasts, subscriber models)
- Syndication of segments beyond Chicago
- Diversifying investments into media tech or content startups
- Legacy projects: mentoring, training, or launching a media brand
| New Development | Detail | Impact / Significance |
| Simulcast Deal with CHSN | Mully & Haugh show airs on CHSN from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. weekday mornings | Expands reach into the visual medium (TV + radio), enhances audience engagement, and offers advertisers cross-platform exposure |
| Cross‑platform audience growth | This move allows radio listeners to also watch on TV | Strengthens Mulligan’s branding, increases leverage for future contract terms or media compensation negotiations |
| Strategic move by Audacy / WSCR | It’s a way to cement the show’s dominance in Chicago sports radio | Could shift how broadcasting agreements and station management think about multimedia content |
In late 2024, 670 The Score struck a simulcast expansion deal: The Mully & Haugh Show now airs on Chicago Sports Network (CHSN) from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., allowing fans to not just hear but watch the morning show.
This is a major step in evolving from pure audio toward a multimedia platform. For Mulligan, it means greater audience engagement and added leverage when negotiating future contract terms or cross‑platform revenue splits.
Case Comparisons & Context
Putting Mulligan in context helps sharpen perspective on his status and strategy.
Peer Comparisons in Chicago Sports Radio
Mulligan’s estimated compensation and net worth likely place him above many peers—partly thanks to the morning slot, contract leverage, and diversified income.
Lessons & Takeaways
- A strong journalism background adds credibility to on-air commentary
- Building co-host chemistry and consistency helps retain the audience
- Diversification beyond radio (stocks, equity, speaking) matters
- Ratings metrics and advertiser relationships define bargaining power
Conclusion
Mike Mulligan’s journey from sports journalist to anchor of a flagship Chicago morning show illustrates how success in sports talk show media hinges on skill, tenure, and business savvy. His contract with 670 The Score, although private, likely includes performance metrics, exclusivity, and bonus incentives.
His net worth analysis, informed by public stock holdings and director roles, suggests a multi‑million dollar valuation. But solid income doesn’t insulate him from industry risk: radio revenue pressures, media shifts, and contract renegotiations all loom.
If you’re a media professional or broadcaster, Mulligan’s path offers lessons: blend journalistic authority with on-air personality, insist on performance-based compensation, cultivate multiple income streams, and stay agile.
FAQs
What is Mike Mulligan’s salary at 670 The Score?
Estimated between $500,000 $1 million annually, including bonuses and perks.
What is Mike Mulligan’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated between $6.9 to $10 million, based on public data and investments.
What show does Mike Mulligan co-host?
He co-hosts the Mully & Haugh Show on 670 The Score Chicago with David Haugh.
How long has Mulligan worked in radio?
He’s had a broadcasting tenure of over two decades, transitioning from print journalism.
Who owns 670 The Score?
Audacy (formerly Entercom) owns and operates WSCR-AM, the home of Mulligan’s show.
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