Melissa from WKDQ makes a pretty big announcement.

A Note From Me to You

So when I first started writing this article, I thought I'd write it all professional and in third-person, but let's be so for real, that's not me and not how I do things.  But I have some news I want to share with you.  Big life-changing news.  I'm leaving radio. Radio is something that will always be a part of me.  I have loved having the opportunity to connect with you and talk on the Evansville airwaves for 15 years now.

Below is from 2011! haha wow! 

I began interning for 103 GBF in 2008, and they couldn't get rid of me, so in 2010, they finally let me crack open my first microphone.  I've had a few changes over the years, but I've always been with the same company, Townsquare Media.  In 2023, I scored my dream gig, and that was getting to host mornings on WKDQ.

But it's now time to hang up the headphones.

I Don't Like Goodbyes

I don't like goodbyes, so I'll try to keep this short, but long story short, it's time for me to see what's next.  If you've ever worked in the media industry, then you know it can be an all-consuming job. There's a lot more behind the scenes than what you hear on air.

Radio isn't a Monday through Friday, 9-5 job; it’s almost more of a lifestyle, involving evenings, weekends, and community events. There's not really an "off" switch in this industry. For years, I loved every minute of it. Connecting with people has always been my favorite part of this career.

But life looks very different now. I started in radio as a college student with endless time. Today, I’m married with two kids (3 years and 10 months). My kids are only young once, and I feel like I’m missing it.

I don’t know exactly what’s next, but I do know it’s time to put my family first and find something that fits my life a little better. I can’t give this career the time and energy it deserves, so it’s time to step away.

My last day on air will be Tuesday, September 9th. 

Thank You For Being Along for the Ride

If you've ever listened to me on air, thank you.  I appreciate you being along for the ride, and it's truly been an honor.  Walking away from this is bittersweet, but I'm excited (and terrified if we're being honest) for the next adventure.

And another big thank you to my husband, Sam.  Sam, you're my rock and my biggest supporter, and I couldn't do this without you cheering me on.

I’ll still be around Evansville, so I'm sure I'll catch you around!

Below is a video I shared on Instagram to announce my departure, and I think it may also help explain things a bit.

A post shared by Melissa (@melissaawes0me)