Jason DeRusha; WCCO Radio, Education, and Where is He Now?
Jason DeRusha
Jason DeRusha is a well-known media personality based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He currently hosts the afternoon drive-time show “Drivetime with DeRusha” on WCCO Radio (830 AM) from 3 to 6 p.m. Additionally, he serves as the food critic for Minnesota Monthly magazine and is active in digital content creation and public speaking engagements.
Before transitioning to radio, DeRusha spent two decades at WCCO-TV, where he was a morning and noon news anchor. During his tenure, he earned multiple Emmy Awards and was recognized for his engaging reporting style and community involvement. His popular segment “DeRusha Eats” highlighted local food scenes and earned him a James Beard Foundation Award finalist nomination.
Beyond broadcasting, DeRusha is active in public speaking and event hosting, often emceeing fundraisers and corporate events. He is also a Marquette University alumnus and has been honored with several accolades, including being named one of the “10 Outstanding Minnesotans” by the Jaycees and receiving the Edward R. Murrow Award for Overall Excellence in Large Market Radio.
Jason DeRusha Education
Jason DeRusha is a proud graduate of Maine West High School in Des Plaines, Illinois. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Broadcast Communication from Marquette University, graduating magna cum laude—a reflection of both his academic excellence and passion for media and public affairs.
Jason DeRusha Age
How old is Jason DeRusha? As of 2025, Jason is 50 years old. He was born on January 24, 1975, in Des Plaines, Illinois. Each year, he celebrates his birthday on January 24 with his family and friends.
Jason DeRusha Nationality and Ethnicity
Jason holds American nationality and was born and raised in the United States. He is of White American ethnicity and has deep Midwestern roots that have shaped both his personality and career in broadcasting.
Jason DeRusha Height
How tall is Jason? Jason DeRusha stands at a height of 5 feet 10 inches (approximately 1.79 meters), giving him a presence that’s both grounded and approachable—much like his on-air personality.
Wife
Jason DeRusha is married to Alyssa DeRusha, a financial analyst. The couple met while attending Marquette University and have been married since 2003. Alyssa is active on social media, sharing insights into her life and interests.
Jason DeRusha’s Children
Jason and Alyssa DeRusha have two sons, Seth and Sam. The family resides in the Minneapolis area and often shares moments from their lives on social media, highlighting their close-knit family dynamic.
Jason DeRusha at WCCO-TV
DeRusha spent 19 years at WCCO-TV, beginning his tenure in 2003. He served as a reporter and later as the morning news anchor, becoming a familiar face to viewers in the Twin Cities. His final broadcast was on June 23, 2022, after which he transitioned to radio broadcasting.
Jason DeRusha at WCCO Radio
After leaving WCCO-TV, DeRusha began hosting “Drivetime with DeRusha” on WCCO Radio, airing weekdays from 3 to 6 p.m. The show features discussions on current events, lifestyle topics, and interviews with various guests.
Jason DeRusha’s Weight Loss
DeRusha has publicly shared his weight loss journey, attributing his success to the Livea Weight Control Centers program. He reported losing over 45 pounds through the program and has maintained his weight loss over time.
Jason DeRusha’s Hair Transplant
DeRusha has openly discussed undergoing hair restoration procedures. He has shared his experiences with hair transplants and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy on social media platforms, providing insights into his personal journey with hair loss treatments.
What Happened to Jason DeRusha?
In 2022, DeRusha decided to leave his role at WCCO-TV to pursue new opportunities. He transitioned to radio broadcasting, taking on the afternoon drive-time slot at WCCO Radio. This move allowed him to explore different facets of media and connect with audiences in new ways.
WCCO-TV and Jason DeRusha
During his tenure at WCCO-TV, DeRusha covered a wide range of stories and became a trusted news source for viewers. His contributions to the station were significant, and his departure marked the end of a notable chapter in his broadcasting career.
Did Jason DeRusha Leave WCCO?
Yes, DeRusha left his position at WCCO-TV in June 2022 after 19 years with the station. He transitioned to WCCO Radio, where he currently hosts an afternoon show.
Where Is Jason DeRusha Now?
As of 2025, DeRusha continues to host “Drivetime with DeRusha” on WCCO Radio and serves as the food critic for Minnesota Monthly. He remains an active figure in the Minneapolis media scene, engaging with the community through various platforms.
Salary
While specific salary figures are not publicly disclosed, reports suggest that DeRusha earns an average salary of approximately $79,500 in his current roles as a radio host and food critic.
