Local Programs

Host, Mike Shanin

Ruckus host Mike Shanin is a veteran Kansas City broadcaster with extensive experience in both radio and television. Mike has moderated the Ruckus program since its introduction on channel 19 in March 1995. Shanin now also serves as managing editor of the weekly program seen Thursdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 11:30 a.m.

In addition to Ruckus, Mike is a political analyst and commentator, talk show host, and news anchor at Newsradio 980-KMBZ.

A native of St. Joseph, Missouri, Mike was educated at Northwest Missouri State University in Maryville and Park University in Parkville where he graduated summa cum laude. He holds degrees in Social Science and Public Administration.

Mike and his wife Joyce live in Kansas City, Kansas. Their feline family includes Miss Piggy, Molly Golightly, and William of Orange Tabby.

Yael Abouhalkah

Yael is a columnist for the Kansas City Star and a member of the paper's editorial board.

Woody Cozad

Woody Cozad is an attorney and former chairman of the Missouri Republican Party. He now heads his own government relations and lobbying firm. Cozad is no stranger to broadcasting, having hosted a three-hour radio program called "Radio for Grown-Ups" on 1190 KPHN. The program featured his pointed political commentary and quick wit. "Food for Thought with Woody Cozad" commentaries have aired on more than twenty radio stations. Cozad is a quintessential conservative with an impressive record of public service. He has been active in politics and government in Missouri for nearly thirty years. He was appointed to the Board of Curators of the University of Missouri in 1991 and was chairman of the state Republican Party and a member of the Republican National Committee from 1995 to 1999.

Cozad graduated from Westminster College in Missouri with a degree in political science and received his law degree from the University of Missouri. Cozad made his career as a trial attorney with Morrison & Hecker in Kansas City, Missouri. He lives in Platte City.

Gwendolyn Grant

Gwendolyn Grant, president & CEO of the Urban League of Greater Kansas City, is a strong advocate for social and economic opportunity for African Americans and other minorities. In her role as the chief executive officer of the Urban League, she provides leadership, oversight and direction for advancing all Urban League programs and its mission.

Gwendolyn has a broad range of experience in all aspects of business administration, marketing, leadership development, workplace diversity, race relations, and in building and strengthening minority enterprises.

Out of the office, Mrs. Grant serves as Vice President of the Kansas City, Missouri School District Buildings Corporation Board of Directors; Arts Council of Kansas City Board of Directors; Institute for Urban Education Advisory Board; Race Equity - Race Relations Scorecard Advisory Group; Race & Ethnicity Collaborative; the Black Education Council; and she is a graduate of the FBI Citizen's Academy. In addition, Mrs. Grant writes a provocative, socially conscious op-ed column which is published monthly in The Kansas City Call.

Mary O'Halloran

Mary O'Halloran created her media and communications business after years in public office, political leadership and community service. Mary served three terms in the Iowa House of Representatives and was apointed by the President to head the Department of Energy Midwest Region. She co-founded the National Women's Political Caucus, served on the Mainstream Coaliition Board and the Kansas City Human Relations Commission. Mary is a former KMBZ radio talk show host and nationally recognized speaker and commentator. She was a former Catholic nun and teacher.