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Libby Denkmann to join KUOW as host of reimagined midday local news program

November 16, 2021 – After a nationwide search, KUOW is excited to announce Libby Denkmann will host KUOW’s midday local news program when it returns to air in early 2022.

KUOW’s midday show The Record went on hiatus in June to allow the production team to pilot new approaches, with the plan to relaunch with a new format and host. Bill Radke will continue to host Week in Review and is currently working on the development of a new program with KUOW.

“From the outset, we set a very high bar for the host search,” said Brendan Sweeney, director of new content and innovation. “We were looking for someone with a track record of journalistic excellence, an innate curiosity about local news, and a demonstrated commitment to amplifying diverse voices and perspectives.”

caption: Libby Denkmann will host KUOW's midday local news show when it returns to air in early 2022.
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Libby Denkmann will host KUOW's midday local news show when it returns to air in early 2022.

Denkmann comes to KUOW from KPCC in Los Angeles, where she was a senior politics reporter and regular fill-in host for that station’s flagship shows—AirTalk and Take Two. During the California gubernatorial recall, she was a regular fixture on national news magazines and podcasts like Vox’s Today Explained, The Takeaway, and 1A. Her October investigative report examining gender discrimination in the Los Angeles Fire Department, triggered calls for the resignation of LAFD’s chief.

A graduate of the University of Washington and Redmond High School, Denkmann has extensive experience in Western Washington. She previously worked as a producer and reporter at KIRO and Marketplace, and as DC Communications Director for Congressman Adam Smith.

“I'm beyond excited for the opportunity to tell local stories with the incredibly talented team at KUOW,” said Denkmann. “As a journalist, I will stay focused on holding power to account, helping explain how culture, politics and money shape our world, and elevating voices from diverse Pacific Northwest communities."

"The new show will focus on original storytelling, highlighting multiple voices and perspectives, and creating meaningful engagement with our local communities. We are excited to add an experienced and creative journalist to our already solid roster,” said Sweeney.

Denkmann’s first day at KUOW will be November 29. KUOW plans to debut the new show in early 2022.