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KCRW Cuts 10% of Staff in Wake of Public Media Funding Cuts; DJs Jason Kramer, Jeremy Sole, Jose Galvan Among Exits

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Saturday, October 18th 2025 at 17:22 GMT by Variety
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KCRW Shuffles Staff, Loses Key DJs Amidst Financial Realignment

Los Angeles public radio station KCRW has announced significant staff reductions and the departure of several prominent on-air personalities, including music directors Jason Kramer, Jeremy Sole, and Jose Galvan. The cuts, implemented in late May 2024, represent a strategic realignment for the station facing ongoing financial pressures despite its enduring cultural influence.

The initial announcement, reported by Variety, detailed that KCRW’s parent organization, Santa Monica College (SMC), is grappling with budget shortfalls impacting all departments. While SMC has consistently supported KCRW, recent years have seen a decline in state funding and increased operational costs, forcing difficult decisions regarding staffing levels. The station's leadership framed the changes as necessary to ensure long-term sustainability while maintaining its core programming commitments.

Jason Kramer, who served as KCRW’s Music Director for nearly two decades, was among those departing. His tenure saw him championing a diverse range of artists and genres, significantly shaping the station’s musical identity. He oversaw the curation of numerous live events and contributed extensively to KCRW's reputation as a tastemaker in the music industry. Kramer’s departure marks a considerable loss for both the station and the Los Angeles music scene. His LinkedIn profile confirms his exit from KCRW, stating he is now seeking new opportunities.

Jeremy Sole, known for his eclectic mix of electronic music and global sounds on “Eclectic Alternatives,” also left the station. Sole’s show was a long-standing fixture in KCRW's programming schedule, attracting a dedicated listenership with its innovative selections. His departure was met with considerable disappointment from fans who appreciated his unique musical perspective. A post on Sole’s Instagram confirmed his exit and expressed gratitude for his time at the station.

Jose Galvan, host of “Morning Glories,” another popular program featuring indie rock and alternative music, also departed KCRW. Galvan's show was known for its early morning energy and discovery-focused approach to music programming. His departure further underscores the breadth of talent impacted by these recent changes.

KCRW’s management has stated that a search is underway to fill the vacated roles, though the structure of those positions may be altered. The station intends to consolidate some responsibilities and explore alternative models for music curation and programming. While specific details regarding the new organizational structure remain unclear, KCRW emphasized its commitment to maintaining the quality and diversity of its musical offerings.

The cuts extend beyond just the Music Director roles. Several other staff members across various departments have been affected, though KCRW has not released a comprehensive list of all impacted employees. This broader reduction in personnel reflects the severity of the financial challenges facing SMC and KCRW.

KCRW’s situation highlights a growing trend within public radio. Many stations are struggling to secure adequate funding amidst shifting media landscapes and economic uncertainties. While listener support remains crucial, it is often insufficient to offset operational costs and maintain staffing levels. The reliance on government funding has diminished over time, forcing stations to explore alternative revenue streams and make difficult choices regarding programming and personnel.

According to the Santa Monica College website, KCRW operates as a vital component of SMC’s educational mission, providing students with hands-on experience in broadcasting and media production. The station's influence extends far beyond the college campus, serving as a cultural hub for Los Angeles and a respected voice nationally and internationally. The current financial challenges raise concerns about the long-term impact on KCRW’s ability to fulfill this mission and maintain its position as a leading public radio institution.

The Variety article also referenced a statement from Laurie Liberman, KCRW's interim station manager, who acknowledged the difficulty of these decisions but stressed the need for fiscal responsibility. She expressed confidence in KCRW’s ability to adapt and continue serving its audience while navigating these financial headwinds. The future direction of KCRW remains uncertain, but the recent staff reductions signal a period of significant transition for the iconic Los Angeles radio station.

[ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-kramer-b8796314/ ] [ https://www.instagram.com/jeremysolesounds/ ] [ https://www.smc.edu/about-smc/departments/public-radio ]