Jon Grayson Retires from KMBZ After 30 Years in Radio

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, May 9, 2025 | 1:23pm CT

Jon Grayson

Jon Grayson, longtime talk host and co-host of the midday show on KMBZ-FM, has announced his retirement, closing the chapter on a radio career that has spanned more than three decades and markets from Tampa to Kansas City. Grayson joined KMBZ in 2019 and quickly became a staple of the station's 10am-2pm lineup alongside Jayme Monacelli. His final show aired this week.

"I fell in love with talk radio the day I first heard it," Grayson wrote in a heartfelt farewell message. "From calling in to shows as a college student to beating down the doors of my local station to hire me, this business always held a kind of allure I found irresistible."

Beginning his radio career as a producer and fill-in host at just 19, Grayson moved through several markets, including Tampa, Nashville, and a long stint in St. Louis, where he hosted the nationally syndicated "Overnight America." He joined KMBZ after roles at KTRS and KMOX in St. Louis.

Reflecting on his decision to retire early, Grayson cited personal reasons, including an upcoming international move and lifestyle changes aimed at protecting his and his wife's "safety and sanity." Though he's stepping away from the microphone, he hinted this may not be a permanent silence. "You know I could never keep my mouth shut for that long," he joked.

Known for his conversational and listener-focused style, Grayson said his approach to talk radio has always been about creating community. "I've always wanted my shows to be the kind of thing you'd hear people jawing about at the bar," he wrote. "We need this place where people, most of whom will never meet in person, can still hear each other."

Grayson expressed deep gratitude to colleagues and listeners, and offered a special thanks to co-host Jayme Monacelli: "Thank you Jayme for bearing with my antics long enough to have turned our show into the true partnership I believe it's been."

KMBZ has not yet announced plans for a successor in the midday time slot.