After KCRW, Travis Holcombe Is Still Championing Music Discovery Beyond the Algorithm

After leaving KCRW amid 2025 staff cuts, Los Angeles DJ Travis Holcombe has continued his music discovery work through Freaks Only FM, an independent online station. The move lets him keep the Freaks Only name and expand the programme beyond its former weeknight slot, while relying on listener support rather than a public radio employer.

Launched in May, the station streams around the clock from Holcombe’s home, and he says subscribers, listeners and listening hours have risen each month. He spends at least two hours a day finding music and usually creates four new hours of programming daily, across daytime, eclectic and dance-focused shows. Its streaming fees include music licensing and increase as its audience grows; donations and subscriptions help cover the costs.