After an impressive 40-year career in radio, Wendy Wiese, a local media legend and Missouri Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame inductee, is bidding farewell to the airwaves. Her final shift at KTRS (550 AM) concludes Friday.
“It felt like the right time to step back after all these years,” Wiese said.
Wiese, a St. Louis native who graduated from Visitation Academy and Fontbonne College, launched her broadcasting journey in 1983 with a stint in smaller Missouri markets. However, her time in the smaller markets was short-lived.
In 1986, Bob Hyland, then the influential figurehead at KMOX (1120 AM), recruited the young announcer to join a seasoned news-talk team dominating the local scene. ”
I remember telling Mr. Hyland I’d get back to him on Monday,” Wiese recalled. “I thought playing hard to get would make him respect me more.”
Wiese’s initial role was anything but ordinary; she took over for the legendary Rex Davis and partnered with another giant in the industry, Bob Hardy, to co-host the popular “Total Information AM” weekday mornings.
After a decade at KMOX, Wiese worked alongside the renowned Bill Wilkerson on the morning show. In 1996, both personalities transitioned to KTRS.
Following a ten-year tenure at KTRS, Wiese briefly ventured into religious broadcasting with Relevant Radio, a Catholic network. The allure of commercial radio, however, proved too strong, prompting her return to KTRS in 2018.
In 2021, she joined former television anchor Jennifer Blome for the 10 a.m.-noon slot, a popular pairing that lasted until Blome retired earlier this year. Since then, Wiese has been collaborating with KSDK sportscaster Frank Cusumano, who will continue hosting the show alongside Jill Farmer as the new co-host.
While Wiese departs from daily broadcasting, she’ll remain a familiar face on KETC’s (Channel 9) public affairs program “Donnybrook,” which she joined in 2003.
Much of her future time will be devoted to her family – her husband, Chris Carter, and their two daughters and three grandchildren. “I’ll miss connecting with listeners the most,” Wiese reflected. “It’s truly special when someone, in the midst of their busy lives, chooses to share a moment with you in real time.”
Title: A Timeless Voice: Reflecting on Wendy Wiese’s Remarkable Broadcast Journey
Interviewer: Good afternoon, everyone. I’m [Editor’s Name], the editor of Time.news. Today, we have the immense privilege of speaking with a true legend of radio broadcasting, Wendy Wiese, who is bidding farewell to the airwaves after an illustrious 40-year career. Wendy, thank you for joining us!
Wendy Wiese: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to reflect on these wonderful years.
Interviewer: You’ve had such a significant impact on local media, especially here in St. Louis. Can you share what prompted your decision to step back now after 40 years?
Wendy Wiese: After so many years in the industry, it felt like the right time to step back and enjoy a new chapter in my life. I’ve had an amazing journey, and it seems fitting to close this chapter on my terms.
Interviewer: That’s a powerful sentiment. You began your broadcasting journey in 1983 in smaller Missouri markets. What were some of the challenges you faced during those early years?
Wendy Wiese: In the smaller markets, the challenges were many—learning the ropes, finding my voice, and truly understanding the community I was serving. But those experiences taught me invaluable lessons about resilience and the importance of connecting with the audience, which have shaped my career.
Interviewer: It sounds like those experiences laid a solid foundation for your future. In 1986, you were recruited by Bob Hyland to KMOX, a pivotal moment in your career. How did that opportunity change the trajectory of your professional life?
Wendy Wiese: Bob Hyland was a tremendous mentor. Joining KMOX opened doors for me and strengthened my passion for journalism and storytelling. Working alongside other talented professionals really elevated my skills and expanded my understanding of what local broadcasting could achieve.
Interviewer: Speaking of local broadcasting, you managed to become a household name in St. Louis. How do you think the local media landscape has evolved over your career?
Wendy Wiese: It’s evolved tremendously, especially with the rise of digital media. Radio’s role has shifted, but I think there will always be a need for local voices that foster community connections. It’s about adapting to the times while maintaining that personal touch.
Interviewer: Absolutely. Your induction into the Missouri Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame is a testament to your influence. What does that recognition mean to you?
Wendy Wiese: It’s an incredible honor, particularly because it acknowledges not just my work but the work we all do in local media. It’s a wonderful reminder of the power of storytelling and the impact we can have in our communities.
Interviewer: As you look back on your career, are there any standout moments or experiences that you cherish the most?
Wendy Wiese: So many come to mind, but what I cherish most are the connections I’ve made with listeners. There’s nothing quite like hearing someone say that your show helped them through a tough time or made them feel connected. Those moments are what made this career so worthwhile.
Interviewer: That’s truly touching, Wendy. What advice would you give to aspiring broadcasters who are just starting their careers?
Wendy Wiese: I’d tell them to stay true to themselves and to listen—really listen—to their audience. The world of media is always changing, but at its heart, it’s about engaging people and sharing stories that matter.
Interviewer: Wise words to live by! Wendy, as you close this chapter of your life, what’s next for you?
Wendy Wiese: Well, I’m looking forward to spending more time with family, exploring new interests, and maybe even volunteering in the community. I want to stay connected but also discover new passions beyond the microphone.
Interviewer: That sounds wonderful! Thank you again, Wendy, for sharing your journey with us. Your impact on local media in St. Louis will certainly be felt for years to come. We wish you all the best in this new chapter!
Wendy Wiese: Thank you! It’s been a joy to be part of this community, and I appreciate the kind words.
Interviewer: Good afternoon, everyone. I’m [Editor’s Name], the editor of Time.news. Today, we have the immense privilege of speaking with a true legend of radio broadcasting, Wendy Wiese, who is bidding farewell to the airwaves after an illustrious 40-year career. Wendy, thank you for joining us!
Wendy Wiese: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to reflect on these wonderful years.
Interviewer: You’ve had such a significant impact on local media, especially here in St. Louis. Can you share what prompted your decision to step back now after 40 years?
Wendy Wiese: After so many years in the industry, it felt like the right time to step back and enjoy a new chapter in my life. I’ve had an amazing journey, and it seems fitting to close this chapter on my terms.
Interviewer: That’s a powerful sentiment. You began your broadcasting journey in 1983 in smaller Missouri markets. What were some of the challenges you faced during those early years?
Wendy Wiese: In the smaller markets, the challenges were many—learning the ropes, finding my voice, and truly understanding the community I was serving. But those experiences taught me invaluable lessons about resilience and the importance of connecting with the audience, which have shaped my career.
Interviewer: It sounds like those experiences laid a solid foundation for your future. In 1986, you were recruited by Bob Hyland to KMOX, a pivotal moment in your career. How did that opportunity change the trajectory of your professional life?
Wendy Wiese: Bob Hyland was a tremendous mentor. Joining KMOX opened doors for me and strengthened my passion for journalism and storytelling. Working alongside other talented professionals really elevated my skills and expanded my understanding of what local broadcasting could achieve.
Interviewer: Speaking of local broadcasting, you managed to become a household name in St. Louis. How do you think the local media landscape has evolved over your career?
Wendy Wiese: It’s evolved tremendously, especially with the rise of digital media. Radio’s role has shifted, but I think there will always be a need for local voices that foster community connections. It’s about adapting to the times while maintaining that personal touch.
Interviewer: Absolutely. Your induction into the Missouri Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame is a testament to your influence. What does that recognition mean to you?
Wendy Wiese: It’s an incredible honor, particularly because it acknowledges not just my work but the work we all do in local media. It’s a wonderful reminder of the power of storytelling and the impact we can have in our communities.
Interviewer: As you look back on your career, are there any standout moments or experiences that you cherish the most?
Wendy Wiese: So many come to mind, but what I cherish most are the connections I’ve made with listeners. There’s nothing quite like hearing someone say that your show helped them through a tough time or made them feel connected. Those moments are what made this career so worthwhile.
Interviewer: That’s beautiful to hear. As you transition out of daily broadcasting, you mentioned that you’ll still be involved with “Donnybrook” on KETC. What are you looking forward to in this new phase of your life?
Wendy Wiese: I’m excited about the opportunity to stay connected to the community through “Donnybrook.” It’s a platform that allows for thoughtful dialogue, which I love. Beyond that, I’m looking forward to spending quality time with my family—my husband, Chris, our two daughters, and our three grandchildren. I can’t wait to make lasting memories with them.
Interviewer: It sounds like a fulfilling journey ahead. as a parting thought, what advice would you give to aspiring broadcasters who look up to your legacy?
Wendy Wiese: I would say, always stay true to your authentic self. Storytelling is an art, and the best stories come from genuine passion and connection. Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, and remember that the audience is at the heart of everything we do.
Interviewer: Wise words indeed. Wendy, it’s been a delight speaking with you today and celebrating your incredible journey in radio. Thank you for your contributions to the industry and for sharing your story with us. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors!
Wendy Wiese: Thank you! It was a pleasure to chat, and I appreciate all the support over the years.