KDHX Donor Spotlight: Jean Emling

Jean Emling has been listening to and supporting KDHX for more than 20 years.

Jean demonstrates that she tunes in all the time by always including wonderful notes with her gifts that reflect the moment she is listening. Here are some samples: “John U has found my jam today with the funky Roma music.” “Howz it by me? It’s great when I’m listening to KDHX!” “The Mega show is making me so happy!!!!” “I give in gratitude for all that Ron Edwards teaches us every week about our culture and the blues. His knowledge and his talent are priceless.” “Just back from the Blues game and we could all use some Positive Vibes.” 

We thank Jean for her longtime commitment to KDHX and for demonstrating her ambassadorship over the last two decades with her financial support and her kind and powerful words. 

Where do you live?

South City, Saint Louis!!!

Tell us about yourself: 

I grew up in Southern Illinois, in what felt like at the time, WAY out in the country. Music was always playing in our house and my clock radio was definitely my connection to the world from grade school on. Everyone in my family played an instrument at one time or another, and I am a proud, former Marching Saluki! The student-run radio station at SIU, WIDB, was really diverse, which is what I love about KDHX.

How long have you been listening to KDHX?

21 years.

Do you remember when you first discovered KDHX? Do you have a KDHX "origin story?"

I discovered KDHX right after I moved to STL from Chicago in 2001. I used to just drive around St. Louis checking things out, finding my way around, learning the city and listening to the radio in my jeep. I couldn't believe that this radio station existed!  KDHX would mention an event or place in the Lou and I would check those things out, so in a way KDHX was my guide to this beautiful city.

Why is KDHX important?

KDHX is like the Arch for me. When I see the Arch, I just smile. It's so much a part of this area and all of our lives, which is how I think of KDHX. Yes, there is great music all day but KDHX is also taking care of and creating a community with a wide offering of cultural and historical information. For example, I've learned so much from the collaboration with the Missouri History Museum. Great Stuff!!

Do you have any favorite KDHX programs?

I turn on the radio everyday before I start my coffee, so the morning programs are pretty special. I could probably name all of the DJ's by the sound of their voice. The Thursday afternoon block of music has been one I don't want to miss lately. DJ sheBEATZ, Orlandez on Friday nights and Walter and Willa on Sunday are some of my favorites.

How do you listen to KDHX? Live radio? Via the stream? Through the recorded archives?

Live radio and the TuneIn app.

Is there anything else you would like to share about how KDHX has impacted your life?

I'll take this opportunity to agree with Wayne Schell (featured in the Donor Spotlight in April 2022) and what he said there. Corporate for-profit media is not always a great thing for us. The airwaves are a public space (like a park) owned by the citizens and the media should serve the community not manipulate us for profit.