News Director, Rob West is a 35-year veteran of radio in Kankakeeland. His voice brings comfort to local listeners interested in local headlines. His broadcasts are well informed, accurate, and relevant. His voice, smooth as butter. Starting out in the mid-80’s working part-time at a local radio station, Rob worked various air shifts and management positions through the years. Rob West took over the news director position in May of 2019.

Our News Associate, Kaleigh Swinford has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Governors State University. As a news associate, she research and develops news stories that are engaging and relevant to our local community. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors and writing poetry.

Jake is a multimedia journalist with a deep passion for community storytelling, with experience spanning podcasting, radio broadcasting, photography, video production, and writing.  He currently serves as the afternoon news reporter for WVLI and WIVR at Milner Media. In this role, Jake delivers timely, relevant news that keeps local communities informed, connected, and empowered.

In April 2025, Jake returned to Milner Media to carry on the legacy of beloved local news icon Ken Zyer, whose passing left a lasting impact. Stepping into this position is more than a job—it’s a profound honor for Jake, who is committed to continuing Ken’s tradition of trusted, community-centered journalism.

Jake’s skill set includes podcast production, news writing and reporting, conducting interviews, and an in-depth knowledge of local history, government, and events. His passion for podcasting reflects a broader shift in journalism that he wholeheartedly embraces—bringing stories to life in ways that are personal, accessible, and impactful. In 2021, he launched the Kankakee Podcast to create a fresh platform for local storytelling, civic pride, and community connection.

Earlier in his career, Jake was honored with a “Best Radio Aircheck” award from the Illinois Broadcasters Association as a student in 2015. Prior to his work in media, he played in the pop-punk band The Projection, celebrating milestones like performing on the Vans Warped Tour and having music featured on MTV’s The Real World—all before graduating high school.

Driven by a strong sense of purpose, Jake finds meaning in work that uplifts the community he proudly calls home. From co-hosting the Wake N’ Jake Morning Show on WFAV to independently building Kankakee Podcast, he has always believed in the power of storytelling to inspire connection and positive change.

When he’s not behind the mic or in the newsroom, Jake enjoys spending quality time with his wife, two children, and extended family. He’s an avid vinyl collector, a fan of long walks, and loves discovering new coffee shops—especially on sunny summer days in Southwest Michigan.