Whio Radio Personalities A Guide To Daytons Favorite Hosts

For decades, WHIO Radio has been a cornerstone of Dayton’s media landscape, delivering news, weather, traffic, and community connection through the distinct voices of its on-air talent. Whether you're tuning in during your morning commute or winding down in the evening, the personalities behind the mic shape how Dayton stays informed and entertained. This guide introduces the key figures at WHIO Radio—exploring their roles, backgrounds, and why they’ve become household names across the region.

The Voice of Morning: The WHIO News Now Team

The day begins early at WHIO Radio, where the News Now team sets the tone for listeners across Montgomery, Greene, and surrounding counties. Anchored by seasoned broadcasters, this morning block blends hard news with light-hearted banter, local updates, and timely traffic reports that keep Dayton moving efficiently.

At the helm is Kelly Rehor, a familiar voice known for her crisp delivery and calm authority. With over two decades in broadcast journalism, Rehor brings depth and reliability to every update. Her background in investigative reporting gives her a keen eye for detail, ensuring that even brief news segments are packed with context.

Joining her is Adam English, whose conversational style bridges the gap between journalist and neighbor. English often shares personal anecdotes—whether it’s his latest hike at Sugarcreek MetroPark or tips from raising two teenagers—making him one of the most relatable voices on the air.

Tip: Set your alarm 10 minutes earlier to catch the full 7:00 a.m. segment—it includes the day’s top headlines, regional forecast, and a quick community spotlight.

Behind the Headlines: What Makes the Morning Show Work

The success of WHIO’s morning programming lies in its balance. While national stories are covered, the focus remains tightly on what matters to Dayton residents: school board decisions, road closures, small business spotlights, and emergency alerts. The team operates under a simple philosophy: “Local first, always.”

“We’re not just reading the news—we’re living it alongside our audience. That changes how we report.” — Kelly Rehor, WHIO Radio Anchor

Noon and Beyond: Midday Voices You Can Trust

As the workday hits its stride, WHIO shifts into midday coverage led by Lisa Mazur, a veteran broadcaster whose career spans print, television, and radio. Known for her thoughtful interviews and ability to simplify complex topics—from healthcare policy to city budget debates—Mazur ensures that listeners stay informed without feeling overwhelmed.

Her weekday feature, “Dayton Decoded,” breaks down one major local issue each week in a five-minute segment that combines expert soundbites, historical context, and listener questions. Recent topics have included the redevelopment of downtown Dayton, opioid settlement fund allocation, and public transit improvements.

Complementing Mazur’s programming is Mark Johnson, who handles live traffic and weather updates with precision. A former NOAA meteorologist, Johnson doesn’t just recite forecasts—he explains them. His winter storm breakdowns, complete with timing windows and road condition predictions, have earned him a loyal following among drivers and parents alike.

Table: WHIO Midday Coverage Schedule

Time	Host	Segment Focus	Frequency
10:00 – 10:15 a.m.	Lisa Mazur	Dayton Decoded	Weekly
12:00 p.m. (sharp)	Mark Johnson	National & Regional Update	Daily
1:30 p.m.	Lisa Mazur	Community Interview Series	Bi-weekly
Every 30 min	Mark Johnson	Traffic & Weather Pulse	Ongoing

Weekend Warriors: The Personalities Who Keep Dayton Engaged

While weekdays are dominated by news and logistics, WHIO’s weekend lineup embraces storytelling, culture, and deeper community engagement. These programs attract a different audience—young families, retirees, and hobbyists—who tune in for substance with a relaxed pace.

Saturday Mornings with Dan Pollock stands out as a staple of local tradition. A Dayton native and lifelong Flyers fan, Pollock blends sports commentary with nostalgia, frequently inviting former coaches, alumni, and fans to reflect on the city’s athletic legacy. His annual “High School Hoops Rewind” series draws some of the station’s highest weekend ratings.

On Sundays, Dr. Alicia Turner takes the mic for “HealthLine,” a call-in program produced in partnership with Kettering Health Network. As a family medicine physician and public health advocate, Turner answers listener questions about everything from diabetes management to mental wellness resources in Montgomery County.

“It’s not about giving medical advice—it’s about connecting people to care. If one person calls a clinic because they heard us, we did our job.” — Dr. Alicia Turner, WHIO Weekend Host

How to Connect: Listener Engagement Across Platforms

Today’s radio isn’t just about tuning in—it’s about participating. WHIO encourages audience interaction through multiple channels, allowing listeners to engage directly with their favorite hosts.

• Email segments: Each host maintains a public inbox for story tips and questions.
• Live call-ins: Weekday shows feature 1–2 listener calls per hour during peak times.
• Social media integration: Real-time polls on X (formerly Twitter) influence topic choices for afternoon discussions.
• Community events: WHIO hosts quarterly “Meet the Press” mixers at the Cox Media Center.

Checklist: How to Get Involved with WHIO Programming

1. Follow @WHIORadio on X and Facebook for live updates.
2. Email your question or story idea to the relevant host (e.g., [e-mail]).
3. Call the studio line during open segments: (937) 225-WHIO (9446).
4. Attend a public taping or community forum hosted by WHIO.
5. Subscribe to the weekly “Dayton Digest” email newsletter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I request a song or dedication on WHIO?

WHIO Radio is primarily a news/talk format and does not play music or accept dedications. However, special holiday programming may include curated music segments.

Are WHIO hosts available for speaking engagements?

Yes—several WHIO personalities accept invitations for civic clubs, chamber events, and nonprofit galas. Contact the Cox Media Group public affairs office to submit a request.

How do I report an inaccurate news item aired on WHIO?

Corrections are taken seriously. Email [e-mail] with the date, time, and nature of the error. A follow-up correction is typically broadcast within 48 hours if verified.

Real Impact: A Community Moment Led by WHIO Voices

In February 2023, when severe storms knocked out power across west Dayton, WHIO became a lifeline. While internet services faltered, radio signals held strong. The team pivoted immediately: Kelly Rehor coordinated with city officials for real-time outage maps, Mark Johnson provided minute-by-minute updates on warming centers, and Lisa Mazur facilitated a live hotline for vulnerable residents needing transport.

Over 12 continuous hours, the station fielded more than 300 calls, connected dozens with aid, and partnered with Five Rivers MetroParks to mobilize volunteers. One caller later wrote: “I was alone, no heat, and scared. Hearing Kelly’s voice telling me help was coming—that kept me going.”

This moment underscored what makes WHIO unique: its people aren’t just broadcasters—they’re embedded members of the community they serve.

Conclusion: Tune In, Stay Connected

The strength of WHIO Radio lies not in technology or ratings, but in the trust built between its personalities and the Dayton audience. From the early-morning urgency of traffic alerts to the thoughtful Sunday discussions on public health, these hosts provide more than information—they offer continuity, reassurance, and a sense of shared identity.

Whether you've listened for years or are discovering WHIO for the first time, there’s value in knowing the people behind the microphone. Their expertise, empathy, and commitment to local truth make them more than voices on the radio—they’re neighbors with microphones.

💬 Have a story about how a WHIO host helped you or your community? Share it online using #MyWHIOStory—or call in during a live segment. Your voice matters too.