Melanie Renate

At 14, a class project led Melanie Renate to the world of radio broadcasting. Through her many mentors at KROC in Rochester, Minnesota, she learned how to splice tape in tandem with learning how to use her voice. Life took its familiar twists and turns and after nearly a decade on-air, she left broadcasting to focus on caring for adults with disabilities and work with AmeriCorps.

Through these experiences, she found her path combining her ability to care for people with her love of radio broadcasting. Some side quests she has taken on this journey include improv classes through the esteemed Groundlings Theatre in Los Angeles and a discovered passion of comedy sketch writing. After a brief time in the Pacific Northwest, she returned home to the Twin Cities and began working with American Public Media/Minnesota Public Radio as a tape logger for APM Reports. She helped MPR Members and listeners for four years as a Member & Audience Services rep and has led volunteer efforts within the organization.

As a certified health and wellness coach and a passionate yogi and mental-health advocate, she has developed a deep appreciation for ways in which music can aid in overall wellness. She is excited to bring her passion for people with her as she steps back behind the microphone as a classical host.