Over the last year, CKUA listeners have heard Spencer Streichert take the reins as a guest host on a variety of programs. Now, we’re thrilled to announce his permanent role as a host of On The Rise!
“The day I found out, I was filling in for OTR that afternoon,” recalls Streichert. “I got a text from Jasmine [Vickaryous, CKUA host and Senior Producer] asking to call… When she told me, I literally jumped up in our house and scared my cat (and my wife) by shouting with glee.”
Since joining CKUA in December 2024, Streichert has filled in numerous time slots, including two-week tenures on Discoveries, Thoroughfare, and Traffic Jams, as well as plenty of time on The Upload and On The Rise. As a guest host, he’s been able to connect with artists including Jake Vaadeland, Jed and the Valentine, William Prince, and more, sharing their stories with CKUA listeners. This experience has deepened his appreciation for the art of radio, something he hopes to bring to On The Rise.
“It takes a lot of creative energy to plan out a show and balance information, music, and fun,” he explains. “But when you strike that balance it feels so natural.”
Streichert is quick to point to the support of his fellow hosts when it comes to honing his craft over the past year.
“Lisa Wilton and Kate Stevens really took me through a crash course on radio broadcasting and instilled so much confidence in me, and Amy van Keeken helped me relax and have fun being myself on air,” he says. “And, of course, Joe Hartfeil understands both hosting and the production side of radio on such a molecular level. Having him there to offer feedback and insight was critical.”
Looking ahead, Streichert says he’s excited to share the latest and most requested music with CKUA listeners on a regular basis.
“I think it’s so important to highlight artists and know firsthand how important it is to showcase fresh work,” he explains. “The reason listeners tune into CKUA is because of the effort that we put into learning about the artists and amplifying their voices.”
Streichert is also excited to keep building his relationship with CKUA listeners and donors. The community connection is one of the things he’s most excited about continuing in his new permanent role.
“CKUA isn’t possible without our audience,” Streichert explains. “Seeing them at events or at my comedy shows has been really cool because it proves just how much of a community we are.”
Tune into On The Rise every Friday afternoon from 1-3pm MT to hear inspiring interviews, thrilling features, fun factoids and the best from CKUA’s Weekly Top 30!
