UK alum wins prestigious Gracie Award for nationally syndicated radio co-hosting
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 31, 2025) — University of Kentucky alum Kristin Klingshirn was honored in May 2025 with a Gracie Award for her work as a co-host on “The Bert Show,” an Atlanta-based morning radio show heard in more than 20 markets.
The Gracie Awards recognize outstanding programming created by, for and about women in radio, television and digital media.
Named after American performer Gracie Allen, the awards spotlight individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry.
With her Gracie Award win, Klingshirn joins an esteemed list of past recipients, including Taylor Swift, Michelle Obama, Amy Poehler and Hillary Clinton.
Klingshirn graduated from UK in 2002 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism, where she found immense support from retired School of Journalism and Media Associate Professor Scoobie Ryan.
“She was like my counselor,” Klingshirn said. “I remember her being no nonsense but also comforting and just keeping it real.”
After graduating, Klingshirn began her radio career directing promotions for 104.5 The Cat in Lexington and WEBN in Cincinnati. She returned to Lexington and moved behind the mic at WKQQ before becoming a morning show host on G105 in Raleigh, North Carolina. In 2011, she joined “The Bert Show” on Q99.7 Atlanta, which aired its final show in October 2025 after host Bert Weiss retired.
Early in her career, Klingshirn said she faced challenges working in a male-dominated field, recalling a time when she was told she wasn’t “radio friendly” and would not likely see airtime. She remained positive and focused on her passion, finding her niche in the laid-back, candid nature of “The Bert Show.”
“You’re not going to give up on your purpose just because one person says no, right?” she said. “So, just hold on to that fire and that passion. What might feel like a setback could be propelling you forward in ways you never could have.”
Now a beloved voice in Atlanta radio, Klingshirn has built a loyal following by championing women’s issues, like grief and IVF struggles, and using her platform to uplift others.
In 2024, Klingshirn spearheaded the Pinot Period Party, supplying Georgia’s baby supply bank Helping Mamas with more than 51,000 period products. She also assists with Bert’s Big Adventure, a nonprofit program of “The Bert Show,” which sends children with chronic and terminal illnesses and their families to Walt Disney World at no cost.
Klingshirn’s Gracie recognition underscores her unwavering commitment to authenticity, vulnerability and empowering women through honest conversations that blend heart and humor.
“I’m beyond proud to be a woman in the media and even prouder to be a woman in media who has won a Gracie,” Klingshirn said. “I’m honored to be in such tremendous company, and winning this award only fuels my fire to continue to speak on women’s issues with honesty, humor and compassion.”
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