Andrew Fillipponi Biography: The Voice Behind Pittsburgh Sports Radio

In the bustling world of sports talk radio, few voices resonate as sharply and passionately as Andrew Fillipponi’s. Known to many simply as “Poni,” he’s not just a familiar name in Pittsburgh—he’s become a local icon, a man who lives and breathes sports with the fervor of a lifelong fan and the conviction of a seasoned broadcaster. But who is the man behind the mic? In this article, we take a closer look at Andrew Fillipponi’s journey, from his early roots to becoming one of Pittsburgh’s most talked-about sports personalities.

Early Life and Education

Andrew Fillipponi was born and raised in western New York, in a region where sports were a way of life. While not originally from Pittsburgh, it didn’t take long for the Steel City to embrace him as one of its own. From a young age, Fillipponi had a strong fascination with radio. He wasn’t just a listener—he was a student of the craft, soaking in the voices, tones, and rhythms of broadcasters like they were music.

He went on to attend Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, a place that would prove to be more than just an academic home—it would become the launching pad for his broadcasting career. At Duquesne, Fillipponi immersed himself in journalism and communication, sharpening his voice both literally and figuratively. He was heavily involved in student media, where his natural gift for commentary and fearless opinions began to shine.

Breaking Into the Sports Media Scene

Post-graduation, Fillipponi didn’t wait for opportunities—he chased them. He began working with ESPN Radio and various regional affiliates, handling updates, hosting segments, and building a reputation for being unapologetically direct. It was clear from the beginning: he wasn’t trying to be everyone’s favorite host—he wanted to be authentic.

Eventually, that raw honesty landed him a role at 93.7 The Fan (KDKA-FM), Pittsburgh’s premier sports talk radio station. It was there that Andrew Fillipponi’s voice found its perfect stage.

The Rise on 93.7 The Fan

At 93.7 The Fan, Fillipponi became a co-host of the afternoon show, most notably partnering with Chris Mueller on “The PM Team with Poni & Mueller.” The show quickly grew in popularity due to its no-holds-barred approach, deep sports knowledge, and sharp takes on everything from Steelers quarterback drama to Pirates front office decisions.

Poni wasn’t afraid to say what others were thinking—but wouldn’t dare say on air. And that’s what made him compelling. He could be controversial, sure, but he was never dull. Whether he was defending Kenny Pickett, criticizing Mike Tomlin’s play-calling, or arguing about the Penguins’ direction, Fillipponi had an opinion—and he backed it up with reasoning, stats, and fire.

What Sets Him Apart

Unlike many sports personalities who lean heavily on hot takes for shock value, Fillipponi blends boldness with sincerity. His strength lies in his ability to connect with the average Pittsburgh fan. He doesn’t talk down to listeners; he talks with them, reflecting their frustrations, hopes, and unfiltered passion.

He also does something many radio hosts struggle with—he listens. On air, he’s known for engaging directly with callers, giving space to opposing opinions, and creating genuine back-and-forth exchanges that feel more like barroom debates than broadcast monologues.

Not Without Controversy

Of course, being outspoken has its downsides. Fillipponi has ruffled feathers on numerous occasions. Some fans find him too negative, particularly when it comes to the Steelers. Others admire his willingness to challenge the status quo and hold sports figures accountable.

One of the things that makes Fillipponi stand out is that he welcomes the pushback. For him, disagreement is part of the job—and part of the fun. It’s all part of keeping sports talk real and relevant.

Beyond the Mic

Outside the radio booth, Andrew Fillipponi keeps a relatively private life. However, he is active on social media, particularly Twitter (now X), where he often engages with fans and shares snippets of his sports takes. His online presence mirrors his radio persona—direct, active, and unfiltered.

He’s also appeared on various sports media outlets and podcasts, offering analysis that extends beyond Pittsburgh to national sports stories. As his reputation grows, many see Fillipponi as not just a regional voice but a rising name in national sports media.

Legacy in the Making

Andrew Fillipponi’s journey is far from over. In a media landscape that changes rapidly, he has remained relevant by sticking to what made him stand out in the first place: honesty, energy, and an unshakable connection to the fans.

To some, he’s brash. To others, he’s refreshing. But no matter how you view him, Andrew Fillipponi has carved out a niche in the heart of Pittsburgh sports radio. He’s not just talking about the games—he’s part of the conversation that defines how fans experience them.

Final Thoughts

Sports radio isn’t just about stats and scores—it’s about emotion, identity, and community. Andrew Fillipponi brings all three to the table every time he steps behind the mic. His voice has become part of the daily soundtrack for Pittsburgh sports fans, echoing their cheers, complaints, and, most importantly, their love for the game.

Whether you agree with him or not, one thing’s certain: Andrew Fillipponi has made his mark—and he’s not done yet.