Texas TV news and radio job moves May 2026

 

MAKING UP FOR WHEN I WAS ON BLOGGING BREAK!

Send tips for the monthly Texas media job list here.

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

Radio One To Acquire KKDA/KRNB Dallas; Sells KZMJ To Fuzion Dallas.

Javier David departed The Dallas Morning News, where he served as business editor since December 2024.

Encouragement Media Group (EMG) announced it will launch its Spanish Christian format, Fuzión, on 94.5 KZMJ.

Robyn Key joins WFAA 8 as a news producer.

HOUSTON

FOX 26 KRIV Morning Executive Producer Jonathan Chastain retires.

Dayna Hayman joins FOX 26 Houston team as Morning News Executive Producer from FOX 7 Austin.

Sonya Villamagna Hamilton becomes VP of Sales at iHeartMedia within the Team Accelerate program from KHOU 11.

Chris Shepherd's TV show Eat Like a Local ends its run after 3 years.

KHOU 11 Great Day Houston reporter and NLGJA leader Carlos Hernandez champions representation and collaboration.

Producer Frank Espinoza returns to ABC13 KTRK after working at KPRC 2 for decades.

Houston Chronicle ends Dwight Silverman's personal technology column.

KTSU 90.9 FM Breaks into Top 20 in Houston-Galveston Radio Market.

SAN ANTONIO

Longtime San Antonio TV host Tanji Patton wraps up popular food show.

After a health scare, every day’s a best day ever for KENS 5 anchor Sarah Forgany.

News 4 San Antonio meteorologist Joe DeCarlo welcomes baby girl.

Texas Public Radio to merge operations with nonprofit San Antonio Report.

AUSTIN

Texas Monthly senior editor Aaron Parsley published his survival story in "Where the River Took Us" and has won the Pulitzer Prize for feature writing.

KXAN explores ‘everything’ it has to offer viewers in promo series.

  

AROUND TEXAS

Rusty Surette named sole winner of 2026 Jason Hightower Award.

Ward Huey, vice president and general manager of KETK/FOX51/KTPN, Nexstar Media Group’s Tyler-Longview stations, has been named the 2026 Television Broadcaster of the Year by the Texas Association of Broadcasters.

Reporter Lidia Herrera leaves KIII 3 News.

 99.9 KLUR Wichita Falls midday host ‘Big Jim’ Russell has moved to mornings following the retirement of Brad Austin on May 15.  

REMEMBERING

Benjamin Bernheart Amato, 94, who built KSTAR Country KVST from the ground up, passed away.

Texas TV news and radio job moves April 2026

 

MAKING UP FOR WHEN I WAS ON BLOGGING BREAK!

Send tips for the monthly Texas media job list here.

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

WFAA 8’s Cynthia Izaguirre has been shaped by “Wednesday’s Child,” her first-grade teacher — and one small, strange slip-up about a mountain climber whose viral clip made her the queen of bloopers.

Hannah Lane left New South Radio "US 96.3" WUSJ Jackson, MS, for Cumulus Media "New Country 96.3" KSCS Dallas, to host nights.

iHeartMedia announced Vince Richards as the new Program Director of 97.1 The Eagle and Lone Star 92.5.

Salem Media turned in the license of 620 KTNO Plano/Dallas.

HOUSTON

Houston Chronicle named Newsroom of the Year by Texas Managing Editors.

Tom Abrahams named 2026 Dave Ward Excellence in Media Award recipient by Crime Stoppers of Houston.

93Q Country in Houston has parted ways with midday host Gerardo Sproet.

Farewell from the Fort Bend Star.

Caroline Ghisolfi named Houston Chronicle data editor.

KHCB Media announced Ivette Zamora as Director of Community Engagement.

A new program at Rice University is giving students a front-row seat to the stories shaping Houston and putting them behind a microphone to tell them. The Houston Newsroom, launched this spring through Rice’s Program in Media Studies, is an audio-first reporting course designed to mirror the rhythms and expectations of a professional newsroom. 

SAN ANTONIO

KENS5 sports reporter Vinnie Vinzetta shared his experience surviving childhood abuse.

Cox Media Group has appointed Jay Shannon as Operations Manager for its San Antonio cluster starting May 4.

AUSTIN

JB Hager and Sandy McIlree have reunited for "The JB And Sandy Morning Show" on iHeartMedia's KVET 98.1.

Austin Business Journal assistant managing editor Bob Sechler has retired.

Ethan Love joins KXAN Austin as a digital content producer from KCEN 6 Waco-Temple-Killeen.

AROUND TEXAS

KBTX General Manager Lori Bruffett retired after nearly 40 years at the station, leaving behind a legacy of community service, excellence and leadership.

After two years in East Texas, reporter  Auyana Aird sayid farewell to CBS19 KYTX Tyler.

Richard "Heatwave" Berler, chief meteorologist at KGNS in Laredo, was presented a key to the city for his four decades of service.

Townsquare Media silenced Talk 103.9 in Lubbock, ending the station's run more than seven years after flipping the format.

Jim Bob Breazeale, who served as the news director for KRIS 6 News in Corpus Christi since 2021, has left the E.W. Scripps Company-owned television station.

KSTA-AM Radio, long known as “The Voice of Coleman County,” signed off the air April 30, bringing an end to decades of local broadcasting.

Mariah Williams joined 25 News in February of 2026.

Landon joined 15 ABC as a Sports/Neighborhood Reporter for the Brazos Valley in February 2026.

REMEMBERING

Glenn Eric Jones, Sr. departed this life and transitioned to eternal rest on April 17, 2026, in Houston, Texas. He was a former ABC13 KTRK Houston executive producer.

Longtime meteorologist Dan Robertson, a veteran of more than three decades in TV news, died April 1. His Spectrum News colleague John Salazar shared the news in a Facebook post.

Longtime radio host Chad Hasty dies; friends, state leaders share memories.

Tessa Barrera joins Hello Houston

 

Tessa Barrera will join Ernie Manouse as co-host of Hello Houston beginning Monday, August 17, 2026, Houston Public Media announced today.

I'm told Barrera will not continue working afternoons for Sunny 99.1 KODA since she will be moving down the dial to News 88.7 KUHF, where Hello Houston airs on the radio.

“Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to tell the stories of the people who make Houston so special,” said Barrera. “Joining Hello Houston is an incredible opportunity to celebrate our community and connect with audiences in a new way. I’m honored to join Houston Public Media and work with the entire Hello Houston team to help shine a light on the stories and voices that make Houston such a remarkable place.”

Manouse said he's excited to welcome Barrera to the program.

“Tessa brings tremendous energy, curiosity and a genuine love for this city," Manouse added.  "I’m looking forward to sharing the desk with her, and I can’t wait for our audience to get to know her.”

Together, Barrera and Manouse will continue to host conversations with newsmakers, community leaders, artists and everyday Houstonians, offering audiences an engaging look at the people, events and issues shaping Greater Houston, the station promises.

“Tessa’s warmth, curiosity and ability to connect with people make her an outstanding addition to Hello Houston,” said Josh Adams, associate vice president and general manager of Houston Public Media. “Alongside Ernie, she’ll continue the thoughtful, community-focused conversations that reach audiences across radio, television, digital, HPM+ streaming and social platforms.” 

She brings 13 years of television and radio experience to the new position.

Barrera succeeds Frank Billingsley, who departed Hello Houston just a few months ago. In an interesting twist, Houston Public Media once again tapped a former KPRC 2 personality for the role. Barrera left KPRC 2's lifestyle program Houston Life in March 2026 after three years as co-host.

The Corpus Christi native officially joined Houston Life in July 2023 alongside Derrick Shore after several months as a guest co-host following Courtney Zavala's departure.

Barrera first arrived in Houston in 2019 after being selected through a nationwide search to join iHeartMedia's 94.5 The Buzz KTBZ as a co-host on The Rod Ryan Show. For more than a year, she balanced both her television and radio careers before leaving the morning radio program in December 2024 to focus full-time on Houston Life.

Before returning to Texas, Barrera worked in Los Angeles as a news anchor and executive producer at KFI AM 640.

She launched her broadcasting career in her hometown of Corpus Christi at KRIS 6 and KZTV Action 10 News, where she made history as the region's first Latina sports anchor. During her time there, she covered the Corpus Christi Hooks, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders, Texas A&M-Kingsville Javelinas, and numerous high school sports teams and events.

'Hello Houston' debuted on Monday, March 31, 2025, on News 88.7 KUHF and online weekdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the slogan, "Your connection to the heart of the Bayou City."

The new radio show and podcast was originally hosted by former KPRC 2 chief meteorologist Frank Billingsley, Ernie Manouse, and Celeste Schurman. Former 97.9 The Box KBXX Madd Hatta Morning Show producer James Kovacik, also known as Jim Beazy, serves as executive producer.  William Menjivar and Garrett Bohlmann are the show's producers.

Texas TV news and radio job moves July 2026

 

Send tips for the monthly Texas media job list here.

- 2026 Lone Star Regional Sports EMMY Nominees

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

Steve Pickett has won awards over his 30 years at CBS 11, but has he told you about Earth, Wind & Fire? 

Spanish Christian “Fuzion Radio” debuted Tuesday, July 7, as the former Adult R&B “Majic 94.5” KZMJ becomes KFZN.

Radio One Begins Dallas Changes With Rickey Smiley Move & KZMJ Sign-Off.
Radio One Sets New Dallas Market Leadership.
Radio One Acquisition Triggers Dallas Staff Cuts.

John Clay Wolfe Celebrates 20 Years on Radio with New iHeartMedia Deal.

Univision has broken the Spanish Rhythmic Latino Mix simulcast on 107.1 KQBU-FM Benbrook/Fort Worth and 107.9 KDXX and launched Spanish AC Amor 107.1 KAMV.

After 28 great years at WFAA, senior director Aaron Butler signs off.

Farewell Cody Marcom, WFAA's photography director.

Derik Lattig has been hired as a producer for Point of View Radio. He previously worked for Dr. Phil's Merit Street Media.

Sarah Blaskovich, Dallas Morning News restaurant reporter, wins food journalism award.

Texas Rangers flee Victory+, create new DTC option mid-season.

Former FOX 4 KDFW reporter Calvert Collins named CEO of Klyde Warren Park.

- Brianda Villegas Debuts on Florida Tonight After Leaving WFAA
- Tiffany Liou leaves WFAA 8 for ABC7 San Francisco
- Sophia Beausoleil named NBC 5 DFW weekend morning anchor
- Erin Heft joins WFAA 8
- CW33 KDAF DFW gets a 9pm newscast again
- Morgan Young returns to WFAA 8 from maternity leave
- Drew Davis leaves Hawaii News Now
- Lauren Crawford leaves CBS News Texas

HOUSTON

Chuck Tiller Exits Salem Houston.

Checking The Odds on Audacy’s Sports Betting In Houston.

Mike Morris named Houston Chronicle local government editor.

KKBQ-HD2 Partners To Become Pasadena Rodeo Radio.

The Houston Chronicle’s local politics team is expanding with the addition of reporters Sam González Kelly and Isaac Yu. 

KHCB Media Group announces Shawn Farrington as Vice President of Content & On-Air Operations. 

Matthew Antonitis joins KHOU 11 as a producer from KPRC 2.

Holly Galvan joins KHOU 11 as Story Desk Editor.

Mike Horton leaves KPRC 2 to join Houston First Corporation as Manager of Media Relations.

Adrian Ashford joins Houston Chronicle as new religion reporter covering faith in Texas.

SuiteRadio's Rowdy Yates continues to add affiliates for his nightly "Ridin' with Rowdy" program, with Connoisseur Media adding the show on KAYO-FM Wasilla, AK; KLGR-AM/K240CJ Redwood Falls, MN; and KAUS-FM Austin, MN. With these new clearances, Rowdy's weekday show affiliate count rises to 75. In other Rowdy news, his longtime weekend program, "The Original Country Gold," has returned to Connoisseur-owned KKUS-FM in Tyler.

- Will Kunkel to work for ESPN
- Brheanna Berry debuts on KHOU 11 Houston
- Joe McCoy joins ABC13 Houston
- Texas TV anchoring is a family affair!
- Gage Goulding Joins CNN as Seoul-Based International Correspondent
- Trevor Birchett Joins KHOU 11 Houston
- Melanie Camp to leave KPRC's 'Houston Life'
- What happened to MeTV Toons on KPRC 2.5?
- Bryanna Moore joins CW39 Houston
- KPRC 2 Houston alters weekend morning news and programming
- Jennifer Reyna is fill-in anchoring
- KHOU 11 to provide CW39 9pm newscast
- Mo Haider departs ABC13 Houston
- SportsRadio 610 becomes 95.7 The Fan Houston
- Rachel Briers joins KPRC 2 Houston
- Tessa Barrera joins Sunny 99.1 Houston afternoons
- Shelby Rose joins Houston Public Media
- Zach Lashway shares about life after KPRC 2 and TV
- Kelly Wiley joins KPRC 2 Houston
- Ajay Patel joins KPRC 2 Houston
- Vida Unida expands weekday live programming, announces new on-air lineup
- Daniella Guzman suspended from KPRC 2 during 'ticket' investigation
- Sherman Desselle joins CenterPoint Energy
- Caroline Brown goes on maternity leave 2026
- Chelsea Edwards on Divorce, Motherhood & Reinventing Her Career

SAN ANTONIO

Former San Antonio TV host Tanji Patton shares cancer diagnosis.

Melissa Andrade joins KSAT 12 as General Sales Manager.

- Emma Allen leaves San Antonio for KATV Little Rock
- Bella Popadiuk joins KENS 5 in San Antonio
- Olivia Dague joins KSAT 12 San Antonio

AUSTIN

- Chase Franks joins KVUE Austin
- Shay Lawson joins KVUE Austin
- Esmeralda Zamora leaves KXAN Austin

AROUND TEXAS

‘Voice of Bears’ headlines 2026 Hall of Fame Class.

Travis Bubenik is stepping into a new leadership role at Marfa Public Radio. 

Ashley Henderson joins KCEN 6 Waco-Temple-Killeen as a Multiskilled Journalist/Reporter.

Reporter Tori Garcia leaves KTXS Abilene.

CBS19 Sports Anchor Dan Mallea announces engagement.

- NewsChannel 6 KAUZ Wichita Falls purchased by Gray Media
- KVIA ABC-7 El Paso summer 2026 changes
- Leslee Lacey joins KXXV as Good Morning Texas meteorologist
- Derick Garcia signs off CBS4 Rio Grande Valley
- Ashley Bowerman joins KBTX Bryan-College Station
- Isabella Garriga named First Alert 7 KOSA evening anchor
- Parker Rehm leaves FOX 44 KWKT Waco
- RGV TV comings and goings in the past months

REMEMBERING

Susan Starnes, fmr. KHOU 11 and KPRC 2 reporter, dies at 73

Ben & Skin moving to Lone Star 92.5 DFW mornings

The Ben & Skin Show is making another move on the Dallas-Fort Worth radio dial.

Beginning Monday, August 10, 2026, The Ben & Skin Show will air weekday mornings from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Lone Star 92.5 KZPS, bringing Ben Rogers, Jeff "Skin" Wade, Krystina "K-Ray" Ray, and Kevin "KT" Turner to the station's morning lineup.

As part of the programming changes, 97.1 The Eagle KEGL will replace the afternoon show with three additional hours of rock music weekdays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The station says listeners can expect "a host to be named later."

Ben Rogers and Jeff "Skin" Wade have been friends since they were 12 years old and have hosted radio shows together in the Dallas-Fort Worth market since 2001. Their show blends humor, pop culture, sports, local news, parody songs, game shows, and listener interaction, with longtime contributors K-Ray and KT rounding out the cast.

The duo most recently returned to 97.1 The Eagle on May 8, 2024, when the station revived its rock format following the end of The Freak talk format. Prior to that move, Ben & Skin hosted the midday show from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on The Freak. Before that, they worked together on 105.3 The Fan KRLD.

Madd Hatta's new book "Kase's Little Adventures" & tour

Benjamin E. Thompson III, known to Houston audiences as Madd Hatta, is bringing "Kase's Little Adventures" to families across the city.  

The 34-page hardcover picture book for ages 2-10 turns a family moment into an engaging lesson about imagination, ancestry, confidence, and entrepreneurship.

The book began while Hatta's wife, Ashley, was pregnant. He rhymed to her belly about the things their son might grow up to do; those words became the opening pages. The story follows Kase, a smart and curious child who discovers an old family lemonade recipe and uses creativity, persistence, and family wisdom to build a neighborhood business.

Madd Hatta created the book so his son could see himself in the story - and so other children,  particularly Black and Brown children, could see themselves as readers, creators, and future business owners. Illustrated by Adam Bailey, with contributions by Julia Strange, the book encourages children to read, dream, build and create.

"Fatherhood changed the way I think about legacy," said Madd Hatta.  "I wanted to create something my son could grow with and other families could share. This is not just a book tour - it is a literacy and fatherhood mission."

The free Storytime with Madd Hatta series recognizes National Black Business Month and back-to-school season. Each event features an interactive reading, a family conversation with Ashley and Kase, audience Q&A, photo opportunities, book signing, and giveaways. The first 10 children at each stop will receive a complimentary copy, plus additional prizes.

For more than 30 years, Madd Hatta has been a familiar voice in Houston media. He currently hosts The Madd Hatta Show weekday afternoons on Majic 102.1, is a Texas Radio Hall of Fame inductee, and leads Paid in Full Entertainment and the Madd Hatta Cares! Foundation. The book tour extends his community work around literacy, active fatherhood, education, and opportunity.

TOUR SCHEDULE

AUG. 8 | 3:00-4:30 PM

Alief-David M. Henington Regional Library

11903 Bellaire Blvd.

AUG. 15 | 3:00-4:30 PM

McGovern-Stella Link Neighborhood Library

7405 Stella Link Rd.

2026 NAB Marconi Radio Award Texas Finalists

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) announced the finalists for the 2026 NAB Marconi Radio Awards, and here are the Texas stations.

NETWORK/SYNDICATED PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR  

El Free Guey Show, TelevisaUnivision, Houston, TX 

Ryan Fox, Westwood One, Dallas, TX 

MAJOR MARKET PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR  

Riggs, Katelyn & Erica, KKBQ-FM, Houston, TX 

SMALL MARKET STATION OF THE YEAR  

KMMX-FM, Lubbock, TX 

KNDE-FM, College Station, TX 

CHR STATION OF THE YEAR  

KNDE-FM, College Station, TX 

CLASSIC HITS STATION OF THE YEAR  

KONO-FM, San Antonio, TX 

COUNTRY STATION OF THE YEAR 

KKBQ-FM, Houston, TX 

SPANISH LANGUAGE STATION OF THE YEAR  

KOVE-FM, Houston, TX 

SPORTS STATION OF THE YEAR  

KTCK-FM, Dallas, TX 

SEE FULL LIST OF FINALISTS

The winners of the 2026 NAB Marconi Radio Awards will be announced during a special dinner program brought to you by Xperi on Tuesday, Oct. 20, at the Edison Ballroom in New York City,

Established in 1989 and named after inventor and Nobel Prize winner Guglielmo Marconi, the NAB Marconi Radio Awards recognize overall excellence in radio by honoring outstanding stations, on-air personalities, podcasts and industry leaders. 

Vida Unida expands weekday live programming, announces new on-air lineup

HOUSTON, TX — July 28, 2026 — Vida Unida, Hope Media Group’s Spanish-language Christian media network, launched a new weekday lineup on July 7, marking the first time in the network’s history that Vida Unida will be live from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT each weekday.

The expanded live schedule represents more than a programming change. It marks a significant step in Vida Unida’s growth as the network increases its live weekday presence to serve Spanish-speaking listeners with encouragement, prayer, and hope-filled music throughout the day. 

“More live programming means more opportunities to build relationships, encourage listeners, pray with them, share hope, and point people to Jesus,” said Tony Luna. “This is an exciting new chapter for Vida Unida, and we believe the best is yet to come.”

The new weekday lineup will feature:

• Mornings: Rocío Madrid will move from middays to mornings, joining Carlos Manuelle on Vida en la Mañana.

• Middays: Coppelia will host middays, bringing a heart for ministry, encouragement, and audience connection to Vida Unida listeners.

• Afternoons: Sadiel Castro will move into afternoons, helping listeners navigate their day with encouragement, faith, and hope.

• Evenings: Cristina Sáenz joins Vida Unida with more than 10 years of television, radio, and digital media experience, bringing faith-centered storytelling to evenings.

With the expanded schedule, Vida Unida will be present in more moments of listeners’ lives. Whether someone is beginning the morning, driving home from work, or winding down at night, Vida Unida will be there with hope-filled music, encouragement, and prayer in real time.

Voting open for Texas Radio Hall of Fame 2026 induction class

(Houston, TX) July 24, 2026: The Texas Radio Hall of Fame (TRHOF) has released the names of the fifty (50) nominees for its 2026 Induction Class. The voting portal will be open and accessible to voting members in good standing via www.TRHOF.net through midnight on Monday, August 10, 2026.

TRHOF Executive Director Doug Harris, a 2011 Inductee, reports an especially robust year of nominations, which he attributes to the recent addition of two new categories of recognition.

“Our ‘Small Markets, Big Voices’ outreach clearly hit home with those who fit that description as well as their fans,” observes Harris.  “For many of these broadcasters, this is their first exposure to Hall of Fame consideration and we welcome their involvement.” 

In 2025, the TRHOF board approved the addition of a Lone Star Legacies category to recognize influential figures in Texas Radio history who have passed on.  Harris notes that this practice returns in 2026.  

Voting members will have the opportunity to select twenty (20) 2026 inductees by reviewing their names, bios, and photos through the voting portal on the TRHOF website. 

“Our 2026 ballot is a ‘great read’ because it spotlights the amazing journeys of broadcasters from markets big and small and touches virtually every job description in our industry that connects to the on-air product.” 

Over 160 broadcast professionals with ties to Texas radio were nominated for consideration by the TRHOF’s Internal Review Committee, who independently and anonymously made their recommendations on the final fifty. Voting members of the TRHOF will now determine the twenty individuals who will be honored on November 7, 2026, during the TRHOF’s Annual Induction Ceremony at the Texas Broadcast Museum in Kilgore, TX. 

The finalists eligible for consideration are, in alphabetical order:

Doug Abernethy

Brenda Adriance Fox  

David Anderson

Brad Austin

Lisa a.k.a. “Lisa Lisa” Bonanni

Bill Bradford

Raul Brindis

Bruce (Jim Edwards) Buchanan 

John Butler

Jay Cresswell

Dave E. Crockett

Diane Day

Anna de Haro

Paris Eley

John Frost

Rex Gabriel

Jimmy “JD” Gonzalez

Ric Gonzales

Mark Grubbs

John L. Hanson

Frank Hicks

JoJo and Patches (James Paczkowski and JoJo Cerda)

Sam Jones

Joyce King 

Kevin Kline 

Tim McDermott

Charlie McGregor

Hank Moore

John “The Lama” Oakes 

Ray Odom

Parker, Mona

Phil Parr

Dave (Stone) Pinkston

Eric Raines

Tom Richards

Clyde (Kooter) Roberson 

Chrissie Roberts

Woody Roberts

Melchor (Mel) Rodriguez

JD Rose

Buzz Russell

Nathan Safir

Saunders, Gary

Jack Sellmeyer

Dr. J. Thomas Smith

Ted Stecker

Gary Stelly

Gary “Blue Eyes” Walker

Pam Wells

Scott West

Barry Wolverton

Details of the TRHOF’s annual Radio Reunion and Induction weekend are available on the organization’s website, along with information on becoming a voting member. Interested parties may still join—and vote—in this year’s selection. 

Tessa Barrera joins Sunny 99.1 Houston afternoons

As I first told you back in June, Tessa Barrera started filling in on Sunny 99.1 KODA, and now it looks like that is a permanent job.

UPDATE AUGUST 2026
Tessa Barrera joins Hello Houston

Barrera is the new weekday 3 to 7pm afternoon host. 

She takes over for afternoon host Chris Davis, who, along with Midday host Amanda Flores and overnight DJ Madison Reeves, was laid off last month.

Barrera departed KPRC 2's Houston Life in March 2026 after three years as co-host of the station's weekday 1 p.m. lifestyle show, telling viewers she wanted to be more available for her family while she figured out the next chapter of her career.

A Corpus Christi native, Barrera officially joined Houston Life in July 2023 alongside Derrick Shore after spending several months as a guest co-host following Courtney Zavala's exit.

She first arrived in Houston in 2019 after being selected through a nationwide search to join KODA's iHeartMedia sister station 94.5 The Buzz KTBZ as a member of The Rod Ryan Show. For more than a year, she balanced both her radio and television roles before leaving the morning radio show in December 2024 to focus exclusively on Houston Life.

Prior to moving to Houston, Barrera worked in Los Angeles as a news anchor and executive producer at KFI AM 640.

She began her broadcasting career in South Texas, working at KRIS 6 and KZTV Action 10 News in Corpus Christi, where she became the first Latina sports anchor in the region. During her time there, she covered the Corpus Christi Hooks, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Islanders, Texas A&M-Kingsville Javelinas, and numerous high school sports programs.

SportsRadio 610 becomes 95.7 The Fan Houston

SportsRadio 610 KILT-AM Houston announced it will rebrand as 95.7 The Fan beginning Thursday, August 13, 2026, bringing its sports programming to the FM dial in place of 95.7 The Spot KKHH. 

That's after more than three decades on the AM dial. No word on what happens to the 610 KILT-AM.  Back to Top 40?  OK, that's a Gordon McLendon era joke. UPDATE: Radio Insight reports both 610 and 95.7 will change to KIKK-AM and KIKK-FM (a nod to the 95.7 frequency's country music roots) and will simulcast the same programming.

Owner Audacy has been moving its portfolio of AM sports talkers to the FM dials across the country for years.  So when SportsRadio 610 teased a big announcement, this is what radio insiders were thinking would be announced in Houston.

However, I never would have thought they would flip 95.7 The Spot, since it is usually the company's highest-rated Houston station (I don't know about revenues, though). The Spot debuted in December 2016 as Houston's newest adult hits radio station programmed for listeners who love a variety of hits from the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and 2000’s.  Legendary Rock 101 KLOL Outlaw Radio DJ Greg "Grego" Onofrio has been the voice and brand ambassador of The Spot since 2019.

"It was fun while it lasted," Grego posted Wednesday evening after the announcement.  "My thanks and love to all. I’ll be in touch."

UPDATE:  Here is the Audacy press release:

HOUSTON, TX – July 22, 2026 – Audacy announces the launch of 95.7 The Fan in Houston, officially establishing the company's FM sports radio presence across all top ten U.S. markets. Beginning August 13, 95.7 The Fan will launch as an FM simulcast of 610 AM, delivering the market’s leading sports talk, expert analysis, and live play-by-play coverage across both frequencies.

As part of this expansion, 95.7 The Fan will serve as the flagship FM broadcast home for the Houston Texans, bringing the game-day action and year-round coverage to an even broader audience across the region.

“Houston boasts some of the most passionate sports fans in the country, and they deserve both the content and distribution that matches their energy,” said Chris Oliviero, Chief Business Officer, Audacy. “Between our incredibly entertaining and informative lineup of local hosts and our exclusive partnership with the Texans, we are the ultimate destination for Houston sports fans. Launching 95.7 The Fan as our tenth FM sports station in the top ten U.S. markets is a proud milestone and solidifies Audacy's leadership in local sports audio. We can't wait to bring this unbeatable coverage to even more fans so they can join the conversation and stay connected to the teams they love.”

95.7 The Fan will launch with the following on-air lineup.

6:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. CT: “Payne and Pendergast”

10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. CT: “In The Loop with John Lopez and Reggie Adetula”

2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. CT: “The Drive with Stoerner and Hughley”

Nightly after Texans All Access: “Area 45 with Bijani and Creighton”

95.7 The Fan is Audacy's industry-leading 23rd FM sports station. As the #1 destination for live sports talk and sports streaming, Audacy delivers a robust portfolio that includes over 40 owned-and-operated sports stations, 160 digital sports channels, and a premier sports podcast network featuring over 600 titles. Audacy is also the flagship home of more than 75 professional and collegiate teams, including the New York Yankees, Dallas Cowboys and Golden State Warriors, and is the official audio streaming partner of Major League Baseball. 

Here is the official announcement:

"For 32 years, Sports Radio 610 has been the soundtrack of Houston Sports. 

We were there when the Oilers said goodbye.  And when the Texans said hello.

We lived every heartbreaking moment, every impossible comeback, every championship celebration from the agony of a game seven loss.

To two World Series parades.

For three decades, one thing has never changed. We've been right here with Houston sports fans every day, every game, every season. 

And now, after 32 incredible years, it's time for a fresh look, an upgrade, a new era, a new era. 

Thursday, August 13th Sports Radio 610 moves to the FM dial. The voices you trust. The sports talk you love. Louder, clearer, better than ever. As 95.7 The fan, Houston sports leader with 100,000 watts of power behind us.

957 The Fan coming to you, Houston on August 13th."

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iHeartMedia layoffs in Houston and Texas in June 2026

There has been a lot of coverage of last week's iHeartMedia layoffs, and we are getting a clearer picture of what is happening in Houston and across Texas.

- KPRC 2 Houston experiences layoffs in June 2026

In fact, I understand that more cuts across Texas could be announced soon.

You can always check trade site radioINSIGHT for the latest national coverage of the iHeartRadio cuts.

HOUSTON

In Houston, Sunny 99.1 KODA Houston has been hit the hardest. 

But before I continue, I am getting reader reports that former KPRC 2 Houston Life and 94.5 The Buzz KTBZ morning co-host Tessa Barrera has recently been heard filling in on Sunny 99.1 as of this weekend.

So, here we go with the KODA cuts. 

Midday host Amanda Flores (also Star 102.1 KDGE Dallas-Fort Worth), afternoon host Chris Davis and overnight DJ Madison Reeves.

At sister station Sports Talk 790 KBME, Cole Thompson announced his exit from the recently announced  “The Morning Drive with Dan & Cole,” which just debuted in 2025.

CORPUS CHRISTI

Steven ‘Rex’ Gabriel exits the mornings at C-101 KNCN Corpus Christi after 36 years.

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A post shared by Amanda Flores (@theamandaflores)

#SupFriends!

Forever thankful to Houston. Onto the next chapter 🎙️ pic.twitter.com/9Z44BGZCHA

— Cole Thompson (@MrColeThompson) June 29, 2026

Double J’s Morning Show moves to Houston Tejano Hits app

The Houston Double J’s Morning Show has a new home and a new team.

The morning radio show, which originally debuted on the newly launched Puro Tejano 106.1 FM K291CE-FM at the end of 2025, is moving to the Houston Tejano Hits app or streaming online at houstonstejanohits.com.

The show, which broadcasts weekdays from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., now features veteran Houston broadcaster Jessika Reyna alongside her husband, Joey Leal of the Project One Band. 

Former co-host Jessica Jeanz is not featured on the new ads. When the show first premiered, it was billed as Tejano radio’s first all-female-hosted morning show. UPDATE: Jessica Jeanz is still with Puro Tejano 106.1 FM from 10am to 3pm on weekdays, starting 6-22-2026, the station tells me.

Also in the Spanish-language Houston radio news world, the 101 KLOL documentary recently won multiple Telly and Communicator Awards. 

Pat Fant addresses broken neck and upcoming surgery

Pat Fant is a legendary Texas broadcaster best known as the architect of Rock 101 KLOL, one of Houston’s most influential rock radio stations. 

Now, Fant is sharing with mikemcguff.com a bit about an accident he has been keeping quiet about lately, but he wanted to address it publicly to let the media community know what is happening as he awaits surgery.

Here is what Fant wrote:

"2026 has been a rough year for the Fants.  

On May 3 I fell at home and hit my head hard enough on the floor to break my neck.  The fall shattered my first 2 cervical vertebrae which form the spinal structure that holds up the head.  The 911 ambulance guys knew exactly what had happened and put me in a cervical stabilization collar to immobilize the neck.  I haven't had the collar off since that night 6 weeks ago.  Turns out that a broken neck is just one step away from becoming paralyzed due to resulting spinal cord damage.  That's the fear that never goes away until you can get in for the spinal fusion procedure.  

Fortunately, I am set for that on June 30 which is where the titanium rods come in to re-stabilize the whole cervical structure and help lock everything in place as the fractured vertebrae fuse back together.  I have to make it 2 more weeks to get rebuilt by the fantastic Methodist spinal neurosurgeons.  After the operation and recovery, it is spinal re-hab in a specialized facility where you'll meet your new best friend Dr Morphine.  

You may not think about any of this until you need it, but living in Houston does come with having the Texas Medical Center right up the street!  

Then there is my Lydia.  What an angel she has been through it all.  Smart, gorgeous, sweet and loving, Lydia has really kept me safe and upright throughout this entire ordeal. She has made it possible for me to survive the whole thing and I love and appreciate every minute of her help.  Thank you so much honey!  And my 2 wonderful girls came down from Dallas to help out too.  

This whole broken neck episode came right on top of a hip replacement last September (a shared experience with my friend Lanny Griffith,)  So after this mess, I promise I am going to stay out of the hospital once and for all.  I just want to go back to cold beer, hot BBQ, driving my classic Caddy around and writing another page of jokes for Uncle Otis - as is God's plan.  At least I have had Fox News to keep me entertained while lying around waiting for bones to grow back together.  

Pat's Broken Neck:  Think of it like being in a motorcycle accident but without all the laughs!"

At just 21 years old, Fant became KLOL’s first program director when the station launched on August 7, 1970, introducing Houston listeners to a new era of rock radio by playing The Who’s “I’m Free” as KLOL’s first song and serving as its first on-air voice.

Fant later returned as KLOL’s general manager in the early 1980s, helping transform the station into a cultural force through bold promotions, memorable branding, and the station’s signature “Runaway Radio” identity. He recruited the legendary Stevens and Pruett morning show in 1985 and expanded KLOL into television and live events, including the iconic Holiday Ball.

After leaving KLOL, Fant launched Houston’s The Buzz and went on to lead stations including KIOL, KFNC, KRBE, KHJK and KTXQ. A graduate of the University of Houston, he later founded RFC Media, LLC and SuiteRadio LLC and is also the creator of the KISS Kasket.

A member of the Texas Radio Hall of Fame, Fant’s innovation and influence continue to shape Houston's broadcasting landscape.

- “Runaway Radio” wins three 47th Annual Telly Awards
- “Runaway Radio” scores major wins at the 32nd Annual Communicator Awards

Houston Public Media launches Galveston County News Bureau

Houston Public Media has established a Galveston County News Bureau, expanding its hyperlocal reporting with an embedded journalist dedicated to reporting on the people, decisions and events shaping this growing county in Southeast Texas.

Launched in response to audience research and feedback, the new bureau is the second for Houston Public Media and builds on the success of its Fort Bend County News Bureau, which launched in 2023.

Houston Public Media’s Julianna Washburn has been named Galveston County bureau reporter. A journalism graduate from the University of Georgia, her prior experience includes serving as a television news reporter in Lubbock, Texas, and an education reporter for Community Impact.

“This bureau allows us to deepen our connection to Galveston County and provide the kind of community-focused journalism our audiences have told us they value and trust us to deliver,” said Josh Adams, associate vice president and general manager, Houston Public Media. “Galveston County is an important and growing part of Southeast Texas, and we are committed to covering the issues, people and developments shaping its future.”

Galveston County is the third-largest source of local listeners to News 88.7, Houston Public Media’s news and talk station. The county continues to experience significant growth in sectors such as tourism, healthcare and maritime commerce, developments that have implications throughout the Greater Houston region. According to the latest census data, Galveston County is approaching 400,000 residents.

“Stories emerging from Galveston County have an impact on the entire region,” said Scott Flannigan, senior director of news, Houston Public Media. “We will focus on stories that hold elected and appointed officials accountable, examine how transportation, health care, infrastructure and job growth are being managed, and highlight the people who live and work in the county.”

Flannigan noted that Galveston’s continued growth is an opportunity for Houston Public Media’s bureau to grow alongside the community.

With a steadfast commitment to local journalism, Houston Public Media leaders say they will continue identifying communities where dedicated local coverage can strengthen its hyperlocal journalism.

The news organization marked the launch of its new bureau with an evening reception on May 20th at The Bryan Museum in Galveston attended by donors, board members, sponsors, community partners, elected officials and local business leaders.

Houston Public Media provides audiences across Greater Houston with free access to informative and inspiring content through platforms that include TV 8 (PBS), News 88.7 (NPR), HPM Classical, digital media and connected TV audiences through HPM+.   

(This post taken from a release sent to me by HPM)

Texas TV news and radio job moves March 2026

Send tips for the monthly Texas media job list here.

DALLAS - FORT WORTH

This Texas Media Mogul Owns the Local News: Irving-based Nexstar controls more TV stations than any other company. CEO Perry Sook aims to grow it even bigger.

Dallas officials feared WFAA-TV would leave downtown over parking dispute, emails show.

After nearly 13 years, the WFAA newsroom said goodbye to assistant news director Sheena Autin.

KERA breaks ground on headquarters, prepares to launch local news show.

Audacy names Erik Bradley Brand Manager of 98.7 The Spot in Dallas.

Ricky Cody renewed his contract as Chief Meteorologist with Spectrum News and will be staying in Texas for the next three years.

FOX 4 KDFW Chief Photographer Bob Hawman retired in March 2026.

Cumulus Media’s New Country 96.3 and 99.5 The Wolf Raise $360,000 for Cook Children’s Medical Center at 5th Annual Texas Independence Jam at Billy Bob’s Texas.

- Damien Lodes joins CBS News Texas
- Ana Mafud joins Telemundo 39 DFW
- Nelly Carreno joins CBS News Texas
- Nicole Nielsen leaves CBS News Texas
- Steve Pickett celebrates 30 years with CBS 11 KTVT
- Nexstar + Tegna, what about Texas stations, plus the dissent
- Mariel Ruiz caught a meteor over Texas breaking apart while live on air

HOUSTON

iHeartMedia Houston Director of Promotions & Marketing, Rob Skinner, is celebrating his 30th year with the radio company.

The Country Radio Hall of Fame Class of 2026 was announced, and Bruce Logan, Vice President of Programming for Audacy/Houston, with direct oversight of 100.3 KILT, is an inductee.

After 70+ years of telling the stories that make our neighborhoods feel like home, The Leader will close its doors. 

Nielsen Acknowledges Houston PPM Encoder Misuse From Illegally Operating Translators.

Space City Home Network announces Astros legend Ryan Pressly joining the broadcast

Meet the 96-Year-Old Texas Legend and iconic broadcaster, René Cárdenas, who helped solidify Houston as a baseball town.

After seven years at the Houston Chronicle covering state politics, Taylor Goldenstein joins the Texas Tribune.

Demarcus Ellis joins KPRC 2 as a technical director.

Rowdy Yates continues to expand his national footprint. The SuiteRadio program “Ridin’ with Rowdy” has been added to the nightly lineup on 96.1 KWS-FM in Charleston, West Virginia. Yates is also now heard weeknights on WUUQ-FM in Chattanooga. A special Saturday-only edition of the show has been picked up by KPXZ-FM in Las Cruces, New Mexico, while his afternoon-focused program “The Rowdy Ride Home” has landed in Butte Falls, Oregon on KWWL-FM. With the latest additions, Yates’ weekday reach now climbs to an impressive 70 affiliate stations.  

- Bill Barajas gets married
- Texas 2026 NAB Crystal Radio Award Winners
- Deanna Schultz to lead Houston Times and Dallas Herald Magazines
- KPRC 2 Houston has layoffs
- Haley Hernandez interviewed by Houston Moms
- Maggie McKethan Memorial Scholarship named after FOX 26 producer
- Coppelia Acevedo on trusting God in every season
- Tim Geraghty named KHOU 11 news director
- Pat Cavlin joins WPIX New York City
- Coffee House Houston moves to The Heights
- Jillian “JJ” Simmons joins 89.3 KSBJ Houston and Worship 24/7
- Owen Conflenti after KPRC 2 Houston
- Nicole Nielsen joins KPRC 2 Houston
- Tessa Barrera to leave Houston Life
- Houston Children’s Charity Makes History with Largest-Ever “Chariots for Children” Van Distribution
- Wayne Dolcefino profiled by Houston Chronicle
- Texas CBS News correspondent reportedly laid off
- Re'Chelle Turner is pregnant
- Remember Michelle Merhar from FOX 26 Houston KRIV?
- “Frito & Katy” no longer on 100.3 The Bull KILT Houston
- Ryan Shoptaugh on KHOU 11 Houston

SAN ANTONIO

Sam Pieprzyca rises to 102.7 Jack-FM KJXK Program Director.

WOAI anchor Mandy Noell plans a perfect day in S.A.

Graham Media Group's KSAT 12 has removed the bios of producer Hardy Meredith, Content Gatherer Avery Meurer plus digital journalists Ivan Herrera, Mason Hickok, Andrew Wilson and Ryan Cerna from its website.

Landon Lowe has been promoted to KSAT12's Nightside All-Platform Executive Producer.

- KSAT 12 San Antonio layoffs
- KSAT 12 meteorologist arrested, accused of assault
- Roxy Van Ruiten is engaged

AUSTIN

101X KROX goes local in mornings with the debut of “Morning X” featuring Trevin Smith and Sawyer Stull.

Texas Monthly Contributor Elliott Woods Wins Overseas Press Club Award for Migrant Series.

Sarah Smith joins KVUE as a producer.

- CBS Austin responds to viral video
- Scott Braddock on the new Quorum Report Radio
- Where is KVUE's Rob Evans?
- Sam Stark leaves KXAN for Austin Current
- Jordan Darensbourg leaves KVUE Austin

AROUND TEXAS

After four decades on 710 KURV Rio Grande Valley, Davis Rankin is retiring. He says he'll still fill in from time to time.

Most Stations In Country’s Top 20? Texas Holds ‘Em.

KWTX 10 Waco engineer Mike Jugert is retiring after 26 years.

NewsWest 9 Anchor Victor Lopez opens up about cancer setback.

KXII 12 Sherman added multi-media journalists (MMJs) Taylor Brooks, Maresa Sisk and Mia Medellin in the last year.

TEGNA's KCEN 6 Waco-Temple-Killeen news director Jim Hice leaves the TEGNA station.

KCEN 6 Waco-Temple-Killeen director and "Director's Chair with Shawn Hobbs" host, Shawn Hobbs ' bio has been removed from the station website, with no new movie critic since January 2026.

TEGNA's 12News Now - KBMT Beaumont Nightside Executive Producer Korbyn Lee and Digital Producer Sharinna Byrd are no longer listed on the station's website bio page.

12 News KBMT Beaumont producer Nick Northrup has been announced as leaving the station.

ABC 7 KVIA El Paso reporter Tyaun Marshburn has left.

KCBD NewsChannel 11 Lubbock's Madeleine Hall has been promoted to full-time reporter.

ABC 7 KVIA El Paso adds Katrina Villarreal and Alberto Silva as producers.

Twenty Cumulus & Townsquare Media Stations cease operations, Texas included.

Emily Paulson joined KBTX as a multimedia Journalist in November 2025.

MMJ Adam Beam leaves KRIS 6 Corpus Christi for 7 News WKBW Buffalo.

KTEN 10 Sherman reporter Ryan Thorpe leaves.

Connoisseur Media has sold one of its three stations in the Sherman/Denison market.

Al Caldwell turns 90: Watch this 'PM Magazine' story from 1980 featuring radio legend.

Sarah Howard joins KBTX 3 Bryan-College Station as a Meteorology Fellow.

Emily Schmalz joins KFOX-TV/CBS4 El Paso as a weekday reporter and the weekend meteorologist.

KBTX’s Rusty Surette and Kayleigh Thomas arrested...for a good cause.

- Kellianne Klass joins KIII 3NEWS Corpus Christi
- Cristina Rodda leaves KTSM 9 News El Paso
- Lisely Garza leaves KGNS Laredo
- Priscilla Meza leaves News Channel 6 KAUZ Wichita Falls
- Lauren Margolis joins FOX 35 Orlando
- Recent Texas anchor baby announcements
- Brayel Brown joins WREG Memphis

REMEMBERING

Remembering Gary Stricklin: Former KTXS Sports Director Dies at 71.

89.7 KACC Alvin's Paula Guidry passed away after a battle with Colon Cancer. 

Rene Vasquez, a longtime radio personality on Majic 104.9 FM and known as "The Voice of Robstown" for decades, has died.