Ross Peterson of KXNO. Where is he now?

Audio-only version

Ross Peterson, an Iowa sports broadcasting icon, discussed his storied 21-year career with iHeartMedia, his departure from KXNO, and his evolving role in sports and beyond. He also discussed Iowa and Iowa State’s bowl prospects, why bowl games might go out of style, and discusses the prospect of Caitlin Clark kissing the WNBA goodbye for Europe. (Update: Ross has announced a new show with Travis Justice called The Rush.)

Where did Ross Peterson Of KXNO Go?

Known for his candor and thoughtful analysis, Peterson shares the highs and lows of his journey on KXNO radio, offering valuable lessons about reinvention, identity, and finding purpose after seismic career changes.

Peterson, a familiar voice on Iowa’s airwaves, discussed being laid off from iHeart Media, ending his career at KXNO. He described the departure as a mix of expectation and shock. “I knew it was coming,” Peterson admitted, reflecting on the volatile nature of corporate media. “But the day it happens, you go, ‘I want more time.’” He likened the experience to grieving, emphasizing the challenges of rediscovering purpose after losing a long-held role.

Peterson leaves on a high-note with strong ratings and revenue, following a trend of other high-profile, strong shows being cancelled like Max and Amy on WHO Radio, Andy Petersen of The Big Show, and others.

Having taken to residential real estate with Agency Iowa, Peterson credits this pivot to home buying and selling to Mark Charter who owns the agency. “Mark, my mentor, really helped change my life. Without real estate, I don’t know where I’d be,” he said, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and support during career transitions. Charter has been a previous show guest discussing 2025 Iowa Real estate trends and first-time home buyers in Iowa.

Sports Trends, Bowl Games, and Caitlin Clark

Shifting to sports, Peterson covered the evolving dynamics of college football, including the proliferation of bowl games and their diminishing relevance amid playoff changes. Peterson noted the financial and cultural shifts driving this trend, predicting significant restructuring in the coming years.

Peterson also tackled the growing trend of athletes like Cam Moore potentially opting out of bowl games to protect their professional futures. “It’s becoming common,” he explained, highlighting how these decisions reflect broader shifts in collegiate sports economics.

Is Caitlin Clark leaving WNBA for Europe?

Brady also asked about Caitlin Clark’s impact on women’s basketball, speculating on her potential to play in Europe.

Peterson praised Clark’s transformative effect on the WNBA, comparing her to cultural icons like Tiger Woods and Michael Jordan. “She’s done things for that league we haven’t seen in decades,” he said, while noting the challenges Clark has faced from peers and the league itself.

It’s no secret Clark has not been given the respect she deserves, despite transforming women’s basketball—having the tar beaten out of her. So, is she in a good position to collect endorsement money, kick the WNBA to the curb, and take a bigger paycheck by playing in Europe? “That’s a brilliant move.” said Peterson, reacting to Brady’s question.

Clark has not announced she will be leaving, but that didn’t stop Peterson and show host Brady from wondering if this possibility has crossed her mind.

“The Rush” with Ross Peterson and Travis Justice

Ross Peterson recently announced a new virtual show with longtime host Travis Justice called The Rush. The show will continues the tradition of sports broadcasting the due were known for on KXNO via virtual channels.

Peterson’s career has been defined by his influential roles as a host on popular programs such as SoundOff and The Morning Rush where he worked alongside Justice, contributing significantly to the sports radio landscape in Iowa.

Peterson’s journey reflects the challenges of maintaining identity and purpose beyond the microphone, as he candidly speaks about the struggle to define himself beyond the role of a broadcaster. His ability to blend life lessons from sports, personal loss, and career change resonates deeply with his audience, positioning him as not just a sports broadcaster, but a relatable figure in the broader Iowa community.