Once the recipients are selected, participating radio affiliates break into the houses of these families (with the assistance of the nominator, a locksmith, and local police) and bring the holidays where there would be none.

[7] The Free Beer and Hot Wings Show won the Michigan Association of Broadcasters award in 2005[8] 2006,[9] and 2007.

[10] Free Beer and Hot Wings won the RadioContraband Rock Radio Award for "Syndicated Morning Show of the Year" in 2013 and 2014[11] The Free Beer and Hot Wings Show was a nominee for the 2024 induction class of the Radio Hall of Fame.

Townsquare Media released a statement: "As you may be aware, Joe Gassmann of The Free Beer and Hot Wings show was arrested after a domestic altercation this past Saturday night.

Joe has been suspended and will not be appearing on the show, pending resolution of the police investigation of the matter.