Veteran WSJD Host Rodger Beard to Retire in January

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, November 3, 2025 | 10:14am CT

Rodger Beard

After more than five decades on the air, longtime WSJD/Princeton, IN radio personality Rodger Beard has announced his retirement, marking the end of an era in local broadcasting. Beard's final show will air Saturday, January 10, 2026, on the Oldies outlet, concluding a career that has connected him with generations of listeners across the Wabash Valley.

Beard has been a cornerstone of WSJD since 2014, hosting the morning show, playing Country Classics, and calling local high school sports alongside Hall of Famer Scott Allen. His warmth, professionalism, and deep community ties have made him a fixture in the Tri-State region.

"Rodger Beard is more than just a radio host-he's a part of the fabric of our community," said Kevin Madden, General Manager of WSJD. "His professionalism, dedication, and love for local radio have made an impact that will be felt for years to come. We are deeply grateful for everything he has contributed."

Over his 50-year career, Beard became a household name across southeastern Illinois and southwestern Indiana, especially known for his Saturday morning "Rodger's Country Gems" program, which has aired for nearly 30 years on various stations. His final edition of the show will broadcast January 10 from 7-9am on WSJD and wsjd.fm.

To honor his career, WSJD will host a Chamber of Commerce After Hours Mixer on January 15 from 4:30-6pm, giving friends, colleagues, and listeners a chance to celebrate his legacy and share their well-wishes.