NAB Marconi Submission: Personality of the Year - Kayla Blakeslee

Kayla Blakeslee hosts Fort Wayne’s Morning News from 5AM-9AM on WOWO, one of America’s most historic radio stations, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2025! Blakeslee expanded WOWO’s audience reach far beyond traditional radio through streaming, podcasts, social media, video and events. For example, FWMN reached nearly 33,000 weekly terrestrial listeners in FALL 2025 morning drive according to Nielsen, while FWMN’s stream generated more than 35,000 weekly listening sessions and over 26,000 hours of weekly streaming consumption. Her social media platforms consistently generated millions of views and thousands of engagements, helping connect local news and civic conversations with multiple audiences. Throughout 2025, Blakeslee covered major political and civic discussions, including debates and exclusive interviews with local, state, and national leaders. She also helped lead WOWO’s local centennial events featuring Glenn Beck, Clay Travis, and Buck Sexton, while supporting America’s 250th planning efforts for 2026. Blakeslee also spearheaded WOWO’s 78th annual Penny Pitch radiothon, raising more than $140,000 for a local nonprofit, while supporting Teddy Bear Patrol efforts, collecting hundreds of stuffed animals for children at emergency scenes. As she approaches her 15th year with WOWO, Blakeslee continues to demonstrate a long-term commitment to local journalism, community storytelling, and civic engagement.     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.