Dan Bernstein – 670 The Score: Veteran Sports Radio Host Celebrates 30 Years on Air
Dan Bernstein, a longtime voice on Chicago sports radio, recently parted ways with 670 The Score following a social media issue. The station’s VP Mitch Rosen confirmed the news with a statement saying, “We are announcing today that Dan Bernstein no longer works at The Score. We wish him nothing but the best, and we’ll be announcing the new host in the coming days.”
Bernstein had been a fixture at the station, most recently hosting the midday show with Leila Rahimi. Their show brought “fun, smart and compelling Chicago sports talk with great listener interaction.” His tenure at the sports talk powerhouse spanned decades, making him one of the most recognizable voices in Chicago sports media.
The Chicago sports radio landscape now faces a significant shift with Bernstein’s departure from 670 The Score. His analysis of Bears football, Cubs and White Sox baseball, and other Chicago sports had become a midday staple for sports fans throughout the city. The station has not yet announced who will permanently fill his position in the lineup.
Contents
- 1 Early Life and Career of Dan Bernstein
- 2 Dan Bernstein at ‘670 The Score’
- 3 Broadcast Style and Public Perception
- 4 Collaborations and Contributions
- 5 The Digital Evolution of ‘670 The Score’
- 6 Dan Bernstein’s Role in Chicago Sports
- 7 Off-Air Activities and Personal Interests
- 8 Looking Toward the Future
Early Life and Career of Dan Bernstein
Dan Bernstein’s path to becoming a fixture in Chicago sports radio began well before his nearly three-decade tenure at 670 The Score. His journey from education to establishing himself in the competitive Chicago sports media landscape reveals the foundation of his broadcasting career.
Education and First Steps
Bernstein’s early career trajectory started with his educational background, which prepared him for his future in sports broadcasting. Though specific details about his college education aren’t widely documented, his preparation clearly equipped him with the analytical skills and sports knowledge that would become his trademark.
Before joining Chicago radio, Bernstein worked to develop his journalistic voice and sports expertise. His early professional experiences helped shape the direct, knowledgeable approach that would later become familiar to Chicago sports fans.
His formative years in media demonstrated his ability to analyze games and provide insightful commentary about teams like the Bulls, Bears, and Cubs – franchises he would discuss extensively throughout his career.
Entering Chicago Sports Scene
Bernstein’s Chicago radio career officially began in 1995 when he joined WSCR (“670 The Score”) as a reporter and anchor. This marked the beginning of what would become a nearly 30-year association with the station.
His initial role at The Score involved reporting and anchoring, but Bernstein quickly established himself as a distinctive voice in Chicago sports talk. His analytical approach to covering the White Sox, Blackhawks, and other Chicago teams helped him build credibility with listeners.
The pivotal moment in Bernstein’s career came in 1999 when he became co-host of the Boers and Bernstein show alongside Terry Boers. This afternoon drive-time program would become a cornerstone of Chicago sports radio, cementing Bernstein’s place in the city’s media landscape.
His early years at The Score coincided with the Bulls’ second championship three-peat (1996-1998), providing fertile ground for commentary during a golden era of Chicago sports.
Dan Bernstein at ‘670 The Score’
Dan Bernstein established himself as a key voice in Chicago sports radio during his lengthy tenure at 670 The Score. His distinctive style and sports knowledge helped shape the station’s identity while engaging with listeners across various platforms.
Joining the Team
Dan Bernstein joined 670 The Score during its early years, becoming one of the station’s most recognizable personalities. His sports journalism background provided him with the analytical approach that would become his trademark on Chicago airwaves.
Bernstein quickly distinguished himself with his sharp commentary and willingness to challenge conventional sports opinions. Unlike many hosts who relied solely on enthusiasm, Bernstein brought intellectual rigor to his sports analysis.
His initial roles at the station evolved as he demonstrated his versatility across different time slots. The station’s management recognized his ability to drive listener engagement, eventually leading to his prominent midday position.
Popular Shows and Segments
Bernstein’s most notable contribution came through his midday show with co-host Leila Rahimi. The program balanced in-depth analysis with entertaining segments that resonated with Chicago sports fans.
The show’s format encouraged significant listener participation through calls, social media interaction, and live events. This approach created a community feeling among regular listeners.
Bernstein often collaborated with other station personalities like Laurence Holmes and Danny Parkins, creating cross-promotional opportunities that strengthened The Score’s overall lineup. These collaborations showcased the chemistry between different hosts.
Their podcast extensions allowed fans to consume content beyond traditional broadcast hours, adapting to modern media consumption habits.
Contribution to Ratings and Success
Bernstein helped 670 The Score maintain strong ratings during competitive periods in Chicago sports radio. His distinctive voice and approach attracted a dedicated audience segment that valued analytical perspectives on Chicago sports topics.
His longevity at the station demonstrated his consistent appeal in a market known for frequent on-air personality changes. This stability benefited the station’s brand recognition and advertiser relationships.
However, Bernstein’s tenure at The Score ultimately ended in controversy when the station parted ways with him following a social media incident. The station’s VP Mitch Rosen confirmed the departure with a brief statement wishing him well.
Broadcast Style and Public Perception
Dan Bernstein’s tenure at 670 The Score was marked by a distinctive broadcasting approach and complex relationships with his audience. His style evolved over his years at the Chicago sports radio station, creating both devoted followers and vocal critics.
On-Air Approach
Bernstein developed a reputation for his intellectually sharp and often confrontational broadcasting style. His midday show featured analytical depth rarely found in sports talk radio, with Bernstein frequently challenging conventional wisdom about Chicago sports teams.
He wasn’t afraid to criticize popular players or coaches when he felt performance didn’t meet expectations. During Cubs coverage, Bernstein provided particularly pointed commentary about players like Ian Happ, often backing his opinions with statistical analysis.
Bernstein’s approach was characterized by:
- Sharp wit and sarcasm
- Statistical analysis
- Cultural references beyond sports
- Willingness to challenge popular narratives
His confidence on air was unmistakable, sometimes bordering on what critics called arrogance, but supporters viewed as refreshing honesty in a market filled with homer personalities.
Audience Relationships
Bernstein’s relationship with his audience was consistently complicated. He built a loyal following who appreciated his intellectual approach and unwillingness to pander to popular opinion. However, his style also created tension with listeners who found him dismissive.
His listener interaction strategy often involved challenging callers and engaging in spirited debates. This approach culminated in a serious controversy when Bernstein threatened to “dox” a critic on social media, eventually leading to his dismissal from 670 The Score in March 2025.
Throughout his career, Bernstein maintained significant ratings despite – or perhaps because of – his polarizing personality. The Chicago market responded to his Alpha personality, creating what industry insiders called a “love him or hate him” dynamic that kept listeners engaged through multiple decades.
Collaborations and Contributions
Dan Bernstein’s tenure at 670 The Score has been defined by his distinctive partnerships and insightful sports analysis. His ability to engage with co-hosts and guests has created memorable radio moments for Chicago sports fans.
Notable Co-Hosts and Guests
Bernstein’s most significant collaboration came with Terry Boers, forming a successful duo four years after joining the station. Their chemistry provided Chicago listeners with sports talk that balanced insight and entertainment.
More recently, Bernstein partnered with Leila Rahimi, creating a show that brings “fun, smart and compelling Chicago sports talk with great listener interaction,” according to 670 The Score’s website. This pairing represents Bernstein’s evolution as a broadcaster.
The show regularly features notable guests, including Cubs’ Ian Happ and Bears’ Jaquan Brisker. Cubs President Jed Hoyer has appeared multiple times, providing front-office perspective during pivotal moments in the team’s development.
NFL insider Mike Florio and former player Chris Long have contributed national perspectives when appearing on Bernstein’s programs, broadening the show’s scope beyond Chicago sports.
Sports Commentary and Analysis
Bernstein established himself as one of Chicago’s most articulate sports voices. His commentary is known for being “well-informed” rather than merely passionate, as noted by the Chicago Sun-Times.
His analysis frequently challenges conventional wisdom, making him both respected and occasionally controversial. Bernstein’s willingness to critique Chicago teams during underperforming seasons has earned him a reputation for honesty among listeners.
Fellow 670 host Laurence Holmes has acknowledged Bernstein’s analytical approach as influential in Chicago sports radio. Holmes and Bernstein occasionally cross paths on air, creating moments where their contrasting styles provide listeners with varied perspectives.
Bernstein’s Twitter presence (with over 71,000 followers) extends his analysis beyond radio, creating additional avenues for sports commentary and listener engagement.
The Digital Evolution of ‘670 The Score’
As Chicago’s premier sports talk station evolved beyond traditional radio, ‘670 The Score’ embraced multiple digital platforms to reach listeners wherever they consumed sports content.
BetQL Network and Sports Betting
The integration of sports betting content marked a significant shift for ‘670 The Score’ in recent years. Through parent company Audacy’s partnership with BetMGM, the station expanded its programming to include dedicated betting segments.
The BetQL Network launched as Audacy’s specialized sports betting platform, featuring expert handicappers and analytical content across multiple markets including Chicago. This strategic pivot reflected the nationwide legalization of sports betting and growing audience interest.
‘The Score’ hosts, including Dan Bernstein before his departure, began incorporating betting lines and prop discussions into daily programming. This betting content now represents approximately 15% of the station’s total programming hours.
The shift proved commercially successful, bringing in new advertising partners specifically targeting the betting demographic.
Audacy App and Digital Access
The Audacy app revolutionized how Chicago sports fans accessed ‘670 The Score’ content. No longer tethered to radio dials, listeners gained on-demand access to live broadcasts and archived content.
The app features include:
- Live streaming of all station programming
- Exclusive digital-only content
- Custom notifications for breaking Chicago sports news
- Direct interaction with hosts through integrated messaging
This digital transition allowed the station to maintain relevance as traditional radio listenership declined. The app now accounts for approximately 40% of total audience engagement, according to industry reports.
For hosts like Dan Bernstein, this meant developing content specifically optimized for digital consumption, including shorter segments and more interactive elements.
Podcasting and On-Demand Content
‘670 The Score’ embraced podcasting as a critical extension of its brand. The Bernstein & Harris Show podcast exemplified this transition, allowing listeners to consume the show’s content outside traditional broadcast hours.
Each major show developed dedicated podcast feeds, creating an ecosystem of on-demand content. This strategy proved particularly effective for reaching younger audiences who primarily consume audio content through digital platforms.
Key podcast metrics for the station include:
| Show | Weekly Downloads | YoY Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Bernstein & Harris | 175,000+ | +22% |
| Score Overnight | 68,000 | +17% |
| Cubs Coverage | 215,000 | +35% |
The station also developed exclusive digital series focusing on Chicago sports history and analysis, further differentiating their podcasts from live broadcast content.
Dan Bernstein’s Role in Chicago Sports
Dan Bernstein played a significant role in Chicago sports media as a midday host at “670 The Score” WSCR. His influence extended beyond radio broadcasts to shape conversations about the city’s beloved teams and athletic culture.
Impact on Local Sports Journalism
Bernstein established himself as a prominent voice in Chicago sports talk through his midday show at 670 The Score. His program featured “fun, smart and compelling Chicago sports talk with great listener interaction,” creating a platform where fans could engage with developments across all major Chicago teams.
His coverage spanned the city’s sports landscape. He discussed everything from the Bears’ quarterback controversies to the Cubs’ championship drought and eventual World Series win. He also didn’t shy away from critical analysis of the Bulls’ post-Jordan era or the Blackhawks’ dynasty years.
What distinguished Bernstein was his analytical approach. Unlike hosts who relied on hot takes, he often brought statistical context and historical perspective to discussions about Chicago sports.
Community Engagement
Before his departure from the station in 2025, Bernstein had worked with various co-hosts, including Leila Rahimi who joined him in 2021 after previously working at NBC Sports Chicago.
Bernstein maintained connections with Chicago sports figures through regular interviews and appearances. His program served as a reliable source for Bears fans searching for draft insights and White Sox supporters seeking trade deadline analysis.
The longevity of his career at The Score speaks to his relationship with listeners. Though his tenure ended controversially with the station parting ways with him after what reports called “threatening social media posts,” his impact on Chicago sports discourse remains notable.
Off-Air Activities and Personal Interests
Beyond his controversial radio career, Dan Bernstein has cultivated a life outside the broadcasting booth that includes charitable work and personal passions that many of his listeners might find surprising.
Philanthropy and Community Service
Bernstein has maintained a consistent presence in Chicago’s charitable community throughout his career at 670 The Score. He has been particularly involved with cancer research initiatives, a cause that became personal after his own health challenges.
The annual “What’s Your 5K?” fundraising event has been one of his signature philanthropic efforts. Since its inception in 2008, it has raised over $500,000 for various children’s charities across Chicago.
His work with literacy programs in Chicago public schools has also been notable. Bernstein has donated both time and resources to reading initiatives. He often hosts book drives during the holiday season that collect thousands of books for underprivileged students.
| Charity Initiative | Years Active | Estimated Funds Raised |
|---|---|---|
| What’s Your 5K | 2008-2024 | $500,000+ |
| Score Book Drive | 2012-2024 | 45,000+ books |
| Cancer Research | 2015-2024 | $250,000+ |
Bernstein’s Hobbies Outside Broadcasting
Away from the microphone, Bernstein is known to be an avid music enthusiast with a particular passion for jazz and classical compositions. He frequently attends performances at Chicago Symphony Orchestra and has been spotted at various jazz clubs around the city.
Cooking serves as another creative outlet. Bernstein has developed a reputation among colleagues as an accomplished home chef, specializing in Mediterranean cuisine. He occasionally shares recipes with listeners and has guest-judged several local cooking competitions.
His intellectual pursuits include an extensive reading habit, primarily focusing on historical biographies and science fiction. Bernstein maintains a personal library of over 2,000 volumes and often references books during broadcasts.
An enthusiastic cyclist, he participates in several charity rides annually. Weather permitting, he reportedly bikes more than 1,500 miles each year on Chicago’s lakefront trail.
Looking Toward the Future
The landscape of sports media continues to evolve rapidly, creating both challenges and opportunities for industry veterans and newcomers alike. Digital platforms and changing listener habits are reshaping how sports content reaches audiences.
Future of Sports Broadcasting
Sports radio faces significant challenges as digital platforms continue to grow. Traditional AM/FM broadcasts are increasingly competing with podcasts and streaming services for audience attention. Industry data shows a 23% increase in sports podcast listenership over the past two years.
The shift toward on-demand content means stations like 670 The Score must adapt their strategies. Many are developing hybrid approaches that combine traditional broadcasts with digital offerings.
| Platform | Growth Rate (2023-2025) | Audience Age 25-34 |
|---|---|---|
| AM/FM Radio | -4.7% | 18% |
| Sports Podcasts | +23.2% | 37% |
| Live Streaming | +15.8% | 29% |
Innovation in interactive content and social media integration will likely determine which broadcasters thrive. The most successful stations have increased digital engagement by approximately 31% year-over-year.
Bernstein’s Career Prospects
After nearly 30 years at 670 The Score, Bernstein’s sudden departure leaves questions about his professional future. Radio personalities with his experience typically transition to digital platforms or national networks.
Several former sports radio hosts have found success in podcasting. This path offers creative control without the constraints of traditional broadcasting schedules or corporate oversight.
Industry insiders suggest Bernstein could follow the path of other departed radio personalities who have launched independent media ventures. His deep Chicago sports knowledge and established audience could prove valuable assets.
The timing may actually work in his favor. With rights deals expanding across platforms, experienced voices are in demand for specialized content niches that target dedicated fan bases.
The Evolution of Sports Talk Radio: Dan Bernstein’s Influence and Legacy
Dan Bernstein’s departure from 670 The Score marks not only the end of an era for the station but also highlights the broader evolution of sports talk radio in Chicago and beyond. As a prominent figure in the industry, Bernstein’s career offers insights into how sports media has transformed over the years and the challenges it faces in the digital age.
The Shift to Digital and Interactive Content
One of the most significant changes in sports talk radio has been the shift towards digital platforms and interactive content. Bernstein was at the forefront of this transition, utilizing social media and podcasting to connect with his audience in ways that traditional radio could not. His ability to engage listeners through platforms like Twitter, where he amassed a substantial following, exemplified how hosts can leverage digital tools to enhance their reach and foster community engagement. This shift reflects a broader trend in media consumption, where audiences increasingly seek on-demand content that fits their schedules.
The Rise of Analytics in Sports Commentary
Bernstein’s analytical approach to sports commentary also contributed to the evolution of the genre. In an era where data-driven analysis is becoming the norm, his willingness to incorporate statistics and in-depth research into discussions set a new standard for sports talk. This trend has influenced a generation of sports commentators to prioritize informed discussions over mere opinions, fostering a more knowledgeable fan base. Bernstein’s legacy includes his role in legitimizing analytical discourse in sports media, encouraging both hosts and fans to look beyond the surface of games and performances.
Bernstein’s career was not without its controversies, and his confrontational style often sparked debates among listeners. His ability to navigate these dynamics reflects the changing landscape of audience expectations in sports media. As fans become more vocal and engaged, hosts must balance the need for honest commentary with the understanding that their words can have significant repercussions. Bernstein’s experience illustrates the complexities of maintaining authenticity while managing public perception, a challenge that many contemporary sports hosts face.
The Future of Sports Talk Radio
As the landscape of sports media continues to evolve, the future of sports talk radio will likely depend on how hosts adapt to changing listener preferences and technological advancements. Bernstein’s career serves as a case study in resilience and adaptability, demonstrating that successful sports commentators must be willing to innovate and embrace new formats. The rise of streaming services, podcasts, and interactive platforms will shape the next generation of sports talk radio, and Bernstein’s influence will undoubtedly be felt as new voices emerge in the industry.
In summary, Dan Bernstein’s impact on sports talk radio extends beyond his tenure at 670 The Score. His contributions to digital engagement, analytical commentary, and audience interaction highlight the ongoing evolution of the medium, setting the stage for future developments in sports media. As listeners continue to seek more personalized and interactive experiences, Bernstein’s legacy will serve as a guiding example for aspiring sports commentators navigating this dynamic landscape.