KCRW Lays Off 10% of Staff After Federal Funding Cuts

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, October 21, 2025 | 10:37am CT

KCRW-FM Santa Monica CA

Santa Monica Public Radio KCRW-FM (89.9) has laid off 10% of its staff following the elimination of federal funding for public media, according to a report from the Los Angeles Times. The cuts include several of the station's most recognizable air personalities -- Jeremy Sole, Jason Kramer, and Jose Galv¡n -- each of whom confirmed their departures on social media.

In a memo to employees, KCRW President Jennifer Ferro said the changes were necessary to adapt to both the evolving media landscape and the sudden loss of federal dollars. "Like so many other public media organizations, KCRW is restructuring parts of the organization in response to our new budget reality," Ferro wrote. "The result of this restructuring is a 10% reduction in our staff."

The Times reports the memo did not identify specific individuals, but the longtime hosts each shared personal statements reflecting on their time at the station. Galv¡n, who joined KCRW 14 years ago, called his departure "a heartbreak," writing, "Growing up in LA, it was a dream come true to be a part of the elite DJs of KCRW... Sadly as of this morning, I am no longer living that dream."

Sole, who had been with the station for more than 18 years, said it was "the highest honor of my life" to share music with listeners each week. Kramer, a 27-year veteran, expressed similar gratitude, noting that "the station will always have a place in my heart."

The layoffs mark the latest contraction at the music-driven NPR affiliate. Last year, KCRW faced a $3 million deficit and offered voluntary buyouts, leading to the exits of several hosts and the cancellation of "Greater LA." The station previously cut nearly a quarter of its staff during the pandemic in 2020.

Other Southern California public outlets, including KUSC-FM (91.5), have also been hit hard by the federal funding cut. Ferro told staff that while the moment is difficult, the changes are aimed at ensuring KCRW's long-term sustainability and commitment to community connection.

Read the full Los Angeles Times article here.