about us
Welcome to the new Heart of the Rockies Radio and Media Group. Since 1948, we’ve broadcasted from the same Salida, Colorado, studio, nestled at the base of the Continental Divide. Today, we’re the leading multimedia company in the Central Mountains, resulting in more than 90 awards for broadcast excellence in the past decade. We’re proud to have been named Best Small Market Radio in the state four out of the past 10 years.
On-air, we reach thousands of listeners every day – from Fairplay and Leadville in the north, to Cañon City and Westcliffe in the east, to Alamosa and Del Norte in the south – our five stations reach more listeners than any other local media across the Upper Arkansas Valley, South Park, the San Luis Valley, and the Wet Mountain Valley.
With a fresh vision honoring our historic legacy, we’re expanding our digital reach through online streaming that reaches tens of thousands of listeners around the globe, an advertiser-friendly new website, enhanced social media presence, and numerous new podcast series. We’re also introducing social media marketing and paid campaigns, blending trusted local content with innovative programming to deepen our community connection.
DAN R
News Director & Operations Manager
Danny “Dan R” Ridenour has been in radio and television broadcasting for over 40 years, starting as a senior in high school in Rogers, Arkansas. His radio career has had stops in Nashville, Memphis, Oklahoma, and eventually, Colorado. Dan enjoys being involved in the community, having been a member of the Upper Arkansas Service Club and is currently on the board of directors for the Salida Community Center and is a member of the Chaffee County Fair Committee. He and his wife Carrie spend their days doing everything the mountains have to offer: hiking, camping, fishing, and skiing. They’ve raised three children and have two grandchildren.
SPORTS DIRECTOR
Andrew has been blessed to work in TV and radio for the past two decades in five states. He says there’s nothing like being home in Colorado. He’s done play-by-play sportscasting for big-time events and has been fortunate to work with many amazing people. For Andrew, the players, the coaches, and the families don’t just make each day exciting to go to work, they also make being part of the community so special.
ANDREW STOSSMEISTER
Ximena Wheeler
Digital Marketing Strategist And Account Executive
Ximena Wheeler is a dynamic storyteller and executive show producer with a passion for creating impactful, community-focused experiences. Her journey began in theater and has evolved to encompass a wide range of live productions, including concerts, musicals, and corporate events. As a key force behind ThexUniverse Studio, an independent production company, she has produced thought-provoking shows addressing critical social issues such as inequality, violence, and mental health, which have been showcased in the USA, Argentina, Guatemala, and Panama.
In 2018, Ximena expanded her creative expertise into digital and graphic design as well as copywriting, further enhancing her ability to craft compelling narratives across multiple media. A trained actress and director, she has performed in and directed numerous plays, blending her artistic sensibilities with a sharp production acumen. Whether on stage, on air, or behind the scenes, Ximena is dedicated to bringing innovative ideas to life and making a meaningful impact through her work.
Natural Resources Correspondent
Joe Stone is an award-winning journalist and science writer with an extensive background in water and public lands issues. Joe has reported on local, regional and state water issues for more than 20 years, and he wrote and edited numerous reports about water, ecology and environmental issues while working at Oak Ridge National Lab. Joe’s background also includes serving on the South Platte River Basin Roundtable, the Chaffee County Planning Commission, the Friends of Browns Canyon Board, and the Harris Park Water and Sanitation District Board. Joe is currently the editor of “Forest News,” where he researches and writes about issues affecting our national forests.
JOE STONE
LISTEN LIVE
Heart of the Rockies Radio and Media Group is the premier media company in Central Colorado. Our radio stations (four FM and one AM) reach the entire Upper Arkansas Valley as well as South Park and the San Luis Valley.
COMING SOON TO HEART OF THE ROCKIES RADIO
With a fresh vision that honors our legacy, we’re expanding into new frontiers, including a complete website overhaul, an elevated social media presence, and the launch of several podcast series to engage our audience in new ways. Additionally, we’re introducing services like social media marketing and paid performance campaigns. By combining trusted local content with innovative programming, we continue to grow and strengthen our connection with the community.
NEW PODCASTS
From business and innovation to wellness, adventure, outdoor rec, and everything in between.
NEW EVENTS
Think intimate studio performances, community concerts, and networking events.
New services
Listener Text Line: 719-530-7943, sponsored by the Golf Cabin Bar & Grill