We are truly excited and honored to have Chad Rufer on this month’s episode of Trailblazers. Chad discovered his passion for music during his teenage years while involved with his high school’s radio station, KWDM. At just sixteen, he landed his first real radio job hosting a Saturday night “Party Song” show on KLYF in Des Moines, IA, while also anchoring news for its sister station, WHO-AM.

With over 30 years of radio experience, Chad has risen from weekend on-air talent to Vice President of Programming for one of the most respected radio groups in the industry. His expertise has earned him recognition as one of the "Best Program Directors in America" by Radio Ink in 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2023, as well as being named one of Country Radio's Top Program Directors in 2023 and 2024.

Chad has worked in various cities across the country, including Des Moines, IA; Fort Myers, FL; Clarksville, TN; and Colorado Springs, CO, before finding a home in Sacramento. In addition to his impressive career, he is a sought-after speaker at broadcasting conventions and has contributed articles to industry publications like Radio & Records, FMQB, and All Access Music Summit.

When he’s not behind the mic, Chad enjoys exploring Northern California with his wife, Karen, indulging in delicious food and fine wine, often wandering through the wineries of Napa or hiking local trails. Their travels have taken them around the world, with memorable experiences ranging from their engagement on the canals of Venice to wine adventures in Argentina. And don’t be fooled—Chad holds a third-degree black belt in Tae Kwon-Do and has maintained his pilot’s license for nearly 30 years.

We hope you enjoy this month's episode featuring Chad Rufer, a true Trailblazer. Find out how you can become one too!

You can find the episode wherever you listen to podcasts. Check it out on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.