Staff Spotlight: Tonya Stoutt-Brown

Tonya Stoutt-Brown is an award-winning broadcast journalist and radio host, an East Tennessee native and a graduate of the University of Tennessee. She is also well known for her creative work as a local actor/director and social media content creator. One of Tonya‘s first jobs in college was working as a weekend DJ on WRJZ, so she’s excited to be able to come full circle and join the WRJZ Joy 620 team again to help listeners grow in the faith. 

“Jesus is my first love and radio is my second,” Tonya says. “Combining the two really is a dream job!”

Tonya also confesses that one of the things she loves most about working at WRJZ is the way each day presents new challenges. You might hear her offering encouragement during on-air breaks between shows or hear her voice on an advertisement or promotional announcement. She writes copy for ads, works with the radio station’s e-newsletter, serves as an emcee and keynote speaker for community events and has launched an effort to help the radio station become more connected to the community not only on the air, but off the air, too.

“Sometimes I start my workday thinking I have it all planned out only to discover that the plan has to be changed or even tossed out,” Tonya says. “I love the way God keeps me on my toes and on the move.”

At the age of 9, Tonya walked down the aisle at a small church in Blount County to commit her life to Christ. Many lessons, adventures, mistakes and blessings later, she says she still believes it was the best decision she ever made. Tonya is married with two grown daughters and is actively involved in ministry today. She especially enjoys sharing the love of Christ with students and young adults.

Favorite Verse: “Since my youth, O God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds. ” (Psalms 71:17)