From the radio studios in Puerto Rico to the most influential microphones in Washington D.C., Pedro Biaggi has built a career that goes far beyond broadcasting: it is a story of courage, authenticity and commitment to the Latino community in the United States.
Now Pedro Biaggi heads up the talent at radio station 87.7 FM, which has become the voice of D.C. and has now taken on the name QuéOnnda, as a way to renew and reinvent itself with a phrase that is very familiar to the Latinos who listen to it every day. Pedro Biaggi opens the doors to his personal and professional world, sharing how a chance recording at the age of 19 led him to discover that his voice – and his truth – had a place in the media.
Known for his interviews with figures such as Judge Sonia Sotomayor and former President Barack Obama, Pedro Biaggi also talks about the challenges he has faced as an openly gay communicator, his work with non-profit organizations, and his philosophy of life based on gratitude, respect and authenticity.
In the midst of the transformation of the 87.7 FM station, of which he is president and manager and which now bears the name QuéOnnda, Pedro Biaggi reflects on the future of radio, the power of social media and the fundamental role of Hispanic media in informing, empowering and uniting the community. An inspiring conversation that celebrates the power of the voice, the impact of the message and the importance of never stopping being yourself.
How was your first approach to radio?
Since I was four years old I felt a very strong attraction to the radio. I lived in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and right across the street from my house was a station called Radio WISO. I would sneak out of the house and go there. The console was taller than me, I would stand on my tiptoes to see the buttons and lights. Watching those announcers talk into the microphone made a mark on me. From then on I knew I wanted to be one of them.
Did you always think you could be a voice-over artist?
Not really. For a long time I thought I couldn’t do it because I was different. I grew up knowing I was a gay man, and the broadcasters I knew were men with wives, children…I felt I didn’t fit that mold. I excluded myself, I thought my sexuality was an obstacle to my dream.
How did you get started professionally in the media?
At the age of 16 I left Puerto Rico on a scholarship from the American Ballet Theatre. Not because I wanted to be a dancer, but because it was a way to get out of the house. At 19, already in New York, I accompanied a friend to record a commercial. The announcer didn’t show up and I was asked to record it myself. I did, and when I heard myself on the radio, it was as if everything clicked. That’s when I understood that I had talent and that my sexual orientation didn’t matter. That same day I enrolled in a voice-over school and started training.
Where did you start your professional career?
In Hartford, Connecticut, at a station called La Grande 94.7 FM. I started as a news director. I felt like I had graduated from Harvard, I felt invincible.
Your program in D.C. is considered iconic. What do you think connects so well with your audience?
That I am useful to my community. I am not a light show or a fancy show, I am a committed human being. I work with organizations that help abused women, at-risk youth and people who have lived what I have lived. I don’t do it for image, I do it because I am born.
What has been the most significant or memorable interview you have done?
Interviewing Judge Sotomayor was one of the biggest challenges of my life. I prepared a lot because I was intimidated by her intelligence and her story. But it was a beautiful conversation. With Obama it was the same, and I remember back then he laughed when I asked him what he thought about Trump wanting to be president…and look what happened!
As an openly gay communicator, what has your experience in the media been like?
Wonderful. I love myself just the way I am. I’ve faced obstacles, sure, but I’ve also had a lot of support. I am not ashamed of anything. God made me this way and made me for a purpose. If someone doesn’t respect me, I just ignore them, but I always give respect.
What does it mean to you to be authentic?
To be authentic is to be yourself on and off the air. It used to be that broadcasters faked a voice or an attitude. Today, people connect with the real thing. Being authentic has been the key to my success: being caring, being kind, being prepared, and having God in my heart.
Who have been your greatest mentors?
Emilio Estefan has been a key figure, almost like a father. Also my best friend Giorgi Irizarry, a lawyer and professor who has greatly influenced my personal and professional development. My dad, although he is no longer here, left me advice that I still hear in my mind. And people like José Villafañe (CEO of Nueva Network), who have believed in me and have given me great opportunities.
What projects are you currently working on?
My most important project is that of every day: to reach out with passion, love and commitment to the community.
What advice do you have for young Latinos who dream of being in the media?
Let them educate themselves, prepare themselves, and not forget to nourish their spirit with God. Having a university degree without spirituality is like having nothing. It is necessary to overcome through the right channels: education and faith.
How would you like to be remembered?
As someone authentic, generous and committed. As a cool guy, who loved what he did and really cared about his people. I have achieved much more than I ever dreamed of, and for that I have only gratitude.
Do you think this is the time for Latinos in the U.S.?
It has always been our time! We are many, we are talented, hardworking and valuable. No one can take that away from us.
What is your final message to the Latino community?
Thank you for listening. I am here to serve you. If there is anything I can do to help, just let me know.
Nothing I am makes sense if I cannot be useful to others
Pedro Biaggi
Pedro Biaggi has not only made his way in the media, he has also opened doors so that others -especially young Latinos- can dream big while still being themselves. His story reminds us that authenticity is not a weakness, but a powerful strength, and that a voice raised with purpose can change realities.
With his unwavering commitment to the community, his passion for radio and his vision of a more just future for Latinos in the U.S., Pedro Biaggi not only continues to make history, he continues to build bridges.
For more DC news, visit QueOnnda.com.
