I moved to the Rio Grande Valley in 2018, but I was born and raised in Michigan, where I got my start in media at just 15 years old. My first job was at my local radio station, managing commercials during sporting events. By the time I graduated high school, I had worked my way up to news reporter.

After a gap year working at the station, I joined the U.S. Air Force as a Munitions Systems Craftsman. My service spanned about 10 years, including both Active Duty and the DC Air National Guard. During my time in D.C., I discovered a passion for stand-up comedy and became a regular performer at the world-famous DC Improv. I later transitioned back into media, working in radio news and talk before moving to television.

In 2018, I made the move to the Rio Grande Valley — my family’s home region — to be closer to my mom and extended family. That decision opened the door to a new chapter in television news. I joined KRGV Channel 5 News in 2020, eventually becoming evening anchor before transitioning to Nexstar Media Group in 2024.

Today, I serve as the Digital Anchor and Local Content Developer for ValleyCentral.com — leading innovation for NBC 23 and CBS 4’s digital transformation. I host Border Report Live, a daily show distributed across Nexstar stations nationwide, focused on border policy, immigration, trade, and regional security. I also created and anchor NBC 23 News Now at 4 PM, a first-of-its-kind digital-first newscast built entirely from the ground up — combining interactive storytelling, live audience feedback, and production systems we designed ourselves. It’s the only show of its kind in the country, and our team is setting a new standard for how local news connects with communities in real time.

Outside the newsroom, I continue my work in real estate — serving clients across the Rio Grande Valley and helping families make confident, data-driven decisions. I also consult on marketing and communications strategy, blending my media experience with modern digital storytelling to help local businesses stand out.

Whether I’m on-air, online, or on-site with clients, my goal is the same: to inform, empower, and uplift the community I call home.

If you have a story idea, need real estate advice, or just want to connect I’d love to hear from you.

— Rudy