Carlin spent the first 13 years of his professional career at WFAN in New York. Beginning as an intern in 1995, he worked his way up to the position of producer for the "Mike & The Mad Dog Show", co-hosted by Mike Francesa and Chris 'Mad Dog' Russo. Carlin produced the show for years, during which time his on-air role grew with the station. He briefly hosted overnights, and served as sports anchor on the "Imus in the Morning" program (2005–2007) & "Boomer & Carton" program (2007–2008.) In addition, he hosted "The Morning Warmup", a one-hour pre-show for Boomer & Carton.