Tune in 1440 Radio and you may be hearing a different voice this morning.

CJ Online reported that popular talk show host Jim Cates was relieved of his duties by KMAJ management Wednesday. Cates told the newspaper the decision to fire him apparently stemmed from criticism of programming changes and the format of his show. He announced his retirement on the air Monday, which came as a surprise to Cumulus Broadcasting.

Cates began his radio career at WIBW Radio 11 years ago, switching to KMAJ in 2001 after a successful career as a state legislator. Cates told his audience earlier this week that he had planned on retiring December 31st.