#79 Marilyn Denis: Purpose & Passion

Women in MediaWomen in PodcastingWomen in RadioWomen in Television

Apr. 23

What an honour; this week's guest is iconic Canadian broadcaster Marilyn Denis who irecipient of the 2024 Canadian Screen Awards Lifetime Achievement Award.

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During this conversation, Marilyn reflects on her career and the changes in the media industry. She discusses her transition from the television show and her new routine. She also talks about the pride she felt when she first started hosting CityLine and some industry challenges along the way. She expresses excitement about the next generation of broadcasters and their ability to be multifaceted and flexible. She emphasizes the importance of being present in the moment and navigating social media, especially being present for her granddaughter and family. She also reflects on embracing age and wisdom and reminds young women to have purpose and passion in their work.

In 2023, Marilyn announced she would bid adieu as host of the popular Canadian Screen Award-winning series THE MARILYN DENIS SHOW, following 13 incredible seasons and a 34-year career of daily daytime television.

Formerly co-host of Roger & Marilyn, the veteran radio broadcaster now hosts Marilyn Denis and Jamar, weekday mornings on Toronto’s #1-ranked radio station CHUM 104.5. A definite trailblazer, Edmonton-born Marilyn became the first female DJ at KRPL in Moscow, Idaho. She then moved to Calgary where she held various radio and television positions including programmer, music director, and traffic reporter. But it wasn’t until she auditioned to become Roger Ashby’s co-host, that Marilyn found her niche. After interviewing dozens of broadcasters and actresses, Marilyn breezed into CHUM FM in July 1986. After chatting with her for a few brief minutes, Roger immediately remarked, “I think we’ve found the right one.”

Marilyn has always balanced her dynamic radio career with her candid television presence. She first began her career in television by reporting on sports, weather, and entertainment at CFCN-TV (CTV Calgary) and working as a freelance reporter for TSN. Marilyn also shared hosting duties on Bravo!'s Gemini Award-winning concert series LIVE AT THE REHEARSAL HALL and was host of the popular daily show CITYLINE for nearly 20 years.

A triple Gemini Award-winner (including back-to-back Viewers Choice Awards), Marilyn received The Rosalie Award, honouring Canadian women who have paved the way for others in radio broadcasting in 2006. Marilyn is the recipient of the Allan Waters Broadcast Lifetime Achievement Award, which was awarded at the 2017 Canadian Music and Broadcast Industry Awards;_ _listed as one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 by WXN; selected as the University of Idaho’s (where Marilyn studied broadcasting) 2017 Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree recipient.