Kai Ryssdal is a radio journalist well known for hosting Marketplace since 2005. Marketplace is a business program that highlights anything economic happening around the United States and all over the world. The program airs on public radios in the United States every weekday.
Kai Ryssdal on Marketplace Today
Kai began hosting Marketplace in August 2005 replacing David Brown who hosted the program from 2003 to 2006. He initially hosted Marketplace Money on weekends and Marketplace Morning Report.
Since Kai took over, Marketplace grew with over 12 million listeners which in turn increased the revenue of the show. Kai also hosts the podcast Make Me Smart alongside Reema Khrais.
Other programs under Marketplace include; Marketplace Minute, This Is Uncomfortable, The Uncertain Hour, and Million Bazillion among others.
Related: Who is Jessica Tarlov From The Five?
Radio Career
Before becoming the host of Marketplace, Kai worked for The California Reports as a reporter and substitute host.
Military
Kai served in the United States Navy from 1985 to 1993. He began his career by flying a Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye from the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier.
Later, he worked as a staff officer at the Pentagon. After completing his Master’s degree, Kai joined the U.S. Foreign Service and served in Beijing, China, and Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Kai Ryssdal Parents
Ryssdal was raised by his parents in Europe. He first lived in England and then relocated to Denmark for three years before settling in the United States. His father, who is Norwegian came to the United States with only a high school level education but later soared to enlist in the Air Force.
He had a hard time learning English and would often watch shows and learn with his mother who taught him after school. Kai graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Emory University in 1985.
Age
Ryssdal is 60 years old as of 2023. He was born on October 8, 1963, in Briarcliff Manor, New York.
Kai Ryssdal Wife
Ryssdal has been married to his wife Stephanie Fossan since 1997. They met in the foreign service orientation before moving to Ottawa, Canada for his assignment. They have four children; Liv, Adin, Soren, and Tait.
Kai Ryssdal’s Salary and Net Worth
Ryssdal’s actual salary and net worth are to be known. As he has been hosting the Marketplace for around 10 years, his salary is said to have significantly increased over the years. He reportedly earns an annual salary of $300k as of 2024. His net worth is said to be in five figures.
Related: Who is ABC Journalist Whit Johnson?
Did Kai Ryssdal serve in the military?
Yes, Ryssdal served in the United States Navy from 1985 to 1993. He served as a Lieutenant.
How long has Kai Ryssdal hosted Marketplace?
Kai has hosted a Marketplace for 18 years as of 2023. He began hosting Marketplace in August 2005 replacing David Brown.
Where does Kai Ryssdal live?
Ryssdal lives in Los Angeles California with his family. During the 2020 pandemic, Ryssdal gave his listeners a tour of his working space in his house. He had to set up his studio at his house due to the lockdown.
