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Dave Ryan, the legendary voice of Minneapolis mornings, is hanging up his microphone after 33 years. The KDWB morning show host just announced his final broadcast arrives Friday, May 22. An era ends for Twin Cities radio fans who’ve woken up to his voice since June 1993.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Final Broadcast: Friday, May 22, 2026 on 101.3 KDWB
- Tenure: 33 years since launching The Dave Ryan Show in June 1993
- Hall of Fame: Inducted into Minnesota Broadcasters Hall of Fame in March 2026
- Awards: Two-time Marconi Award winner for large market personality in 2011 and 2023
An Icon Ends 33 Years at the Microphone
Dave Ryan has been the sound of Minneapolis mornings since launching his show on June 4, 1993. For over three decades, he became synonymous with KDWB, building one of radio’s longest-running morning shows. The announcement comes as Twin Cities listeners prepare to say goodbye to their favorite radio personality.
Ryan expressed gratitude for decades of listener support. His 5:30 AM to 10:00 AM time slot has made him a fixture in Minnesota commutes. The timing of his retirement marks a symbolic shift for the station that has defined his entire career.
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A Legacy of Entertainment and Awards
The radio icon has earned widespread recognition for his distinctive hosting style. Ryan won prestigious Marconi Awards in both 2011 and 2023, cementing his status as a national broadcast talent. These honors reflect decades spent entertaining millions of devoted listeners.
Just months before announcing retirement, Ryan was inducted into the Minnesota Broadcasters Hall of Fame in March 2026. The honor recognized his transformative impact on regional radio. His longevity, creativity, and influence made him a natural candidate for the prestigious induction.
The Dave Ryan Show Team Continues
| Team Member | Role |
| Dave Ryan | Main Host (retiring May 22) |
| Jenny Luttenberger | Co-host |
| Bailey Hess | Co-host |
| Vont Leak | Co-host |
Jenny Luttenberger, Bailey Hess, and Vont Leak have become integral parts of The Dave Ryan Show. These co-hosts joined the broadcast team in recent years, adding new energy to the program. As Ryan departs, the show’s future remains focused on maintaining the quality listeners expect from KDWB‘s morning slot.
“All I can say is thank you to the incredible fans and listeners who made this journey unforgettable.”
— Dave Ryan, KDWB morning host
What’s Next for Twin Cities Radio
The KDWB morning show represents one of radio’s most important time slots. Listeners now face the prospect of welcoming new voices into their daily routines. The station has a responsibility to honor Ryan’s legacy while introducing fresh talent to the 5:30 AM slot.
For three decades, Dave Ryan set the tone for Minneapolis mornings. His departure marks an end of an era. However, his influence on broadcasting and impact on Twin Cities culture will endure long after his final broadcast fades away.
Will Dave Ryan’s Influence Extend Beyond May 22
Ryan’s retirement raises questions about the future direction of KDWB and he personally navigates life beyond the microphone. After decades of waking up before dawn, what comes next? Twin Cities listeners wonder whether Ryan will remain connected to radio or explore entirely different pursuits in his next chapter.
Sources
- RadioInsight – Announcement of Dave Ryan’s retirement from KDWB mornings on May 22, 2026
- RadioInk – Minneapolis morning man Dave Ryan retirement coverage and final broadcast date
- RBR Communications – Twin Cities morning radio icon retirement story and career legacy
