Community Corner
Jason DeRusha To Join WCCO Radio Days After Leaving Anchor Desk
DeRusha said last month that he wanted to "take a leap and try a new adventure," which will include hosting an afternoon radio show.
MAPLE GROVE, MN — Longtime WCCO anchor Jason DeRusha announced his imminent departure from the CBS affiliate’s morning shows only about two weeks ago, but he’s already lined up his next gig.
DeRusha, who lives in Maple Grove, told WCCO viewers May 24 that he "won't be the person who helps you wake up every morning" after making the "decision to take a leap and try a new adventure."
His new adventure is set to include hosting a radio show on News Talk 830 WCCO from 3-6 p.m. each weekday, starting June 27, just four days after his final day as a television news anchor.
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He has said he will continue to report on special assignments for the TV station and “anything they’ll let me do.”
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“I have always loved the creativity, the unpredictability, and the interactive qualities of radio,” DeRusha said in an article by Audacy, News Talk 830 WCCO’s parent company. “I can’t wait to bring my love for Minnesota and western Wisconsin, as well as my two decades of curiosity about our neighbors and our news to WCCO Radio.”
“Not many people get to have one dream job, let alone two,” DeRusha continued. “I’ve loved my time in television and can’t wait to dive into a new dream job in radio and podcasting.”
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DeRusha joined WCCO as a reporter in 2003 and was named a co-anchor of its morning news broadcasts in 2013 after more than five years with "Good Question" and almost two years as a weekend anchor, according to the CBS affiliate.
He earned 11 Regional Emmy Awards for anchoring, breaking news coverage and reporting during his time at WCCO.
DeRusha also produced a weekly food segment called "DeRusha Eats," and he was recognized as a James Beard Award finalist for his culinary coverage.
The award-winning reporter and anchor coaches the Maple Grove High School debate and speech team.
DeRusha and co-coach Madeline Benson are set to lead the team to the 2022 National Speech and Debate Tournament from June 12-17 in Louisville after winning the Northern Lights National Qualifiers tournament last year.
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