KUT News launches Austin Signal Daily News Magazine

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, October 1, 2025 | 2:57pm CT

Austin Signal

KUT News will launch a new weekday program, Austin Signal, on October 6. The 30-minute news magazine aims to blend trusted local reporting with Austin's cultural identity, airing weekdays at 1pm on KUT 90.5. Episodes will also be released as a daily podcast and on KUT.org.

To mark its debut, Austin Signal will close its first week with a live broadcast from the Austin City Limits Music Festival on October 10. The program will feature voices from KUT News, KUTX 98.9, Texas Standard and other station podcasts, alongside reporting partners to deliver the day's news, music, arts, and sports.

"At a time when news fatigue is real, Austin Signal offers a fresh, approachable way to stay informed," said KUT News Managing Editor Ben Philpott. "We're combining reliable, award-winning reporting with the creativity of our music and culture teams to reflect the full scope of Central Texas life."

General Manager Debbie Hiott emphasized the importance of continuing to expand local coverage despite the station's loss of more than $1 million in federal funding earlier this year. "Central Texas deserves reliable, accessible news -- and much more of it," she said.

Collaboration is a central element of the new show. KUT News is working with The Texas Tribune's upcoming Austin newsroom, led by veteran journalist Melissa Barrag¡n Taboada, as a founding editorial partner. Taboada said the partnership allows the teams to pool resources and broaden reach while avoiding duplication.

Austin Signal will be hosted by local All Things Considered anchor Jerry Quijano. The production team includes managing producer Kristen Cabrera, managing editor Ben Philpott, showrunner Jimmy Maas, technical director Rayna Sevilla, and a theme composed by Rene Chavez. Fill-in hosts will include Jennifer Stayton, Syeda Carrillo and Miles Bloxson.