Meet Kristi Capel of Cleveland

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristi Capel.

Hi Kristi, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, you could tell our readers some of your backstory.
I always say my love for television started when I was a little girl performing on my grandparent’s Christian television show, “Heartbeat,” at five years old, singing, interviewing, basically doing whatever I wanted! As I grew up, my love for entertainment never faded. In 2001, I moved to Missouri on a volleyball scholarship to attend Evangel University, earning a degree in Broadcasting & Communications with a minor in Public Relations. After graduating from college, I won the ‘Miss Missouri USA 2006 title and had a wonderful opportunity to represent Missouri at the ‘2006 Miss USA Pageant.’

I always stress internships; they can create an open door to your career, and that’s how it started for me. I landed an internship at KSPR News in Springfield, Missouri, where I began my first job as a reporter. After a few short months of covering fires, accidents, and local events, they needed a weekend weather anchor, so I jumped in the driver’s seat and began my weather career studying at Mississippi State University, then continuing my career in Northeast and Central PA as the morning and midday weather anchor at WBRE.

My journey has landed me in Cleveland, Ohio, where I have many opportunities! I started as the morning traffic reporter, hosting the #1 local entertainment show in the country, “New Day Cleveland” with David Moss, anchoring the Emmy Award-winning sports show, “Friday Night Touchdown,” and now co-anchoring the #1 newscast in Cleveland, ‘Fox 8 News In the Morning.’ I’m thrilled to announce my newest project, “Off Air with Kristi Capel!” My podcast includes inspiring guests who share their journeys of where they started and how they got to where they are today!

My awesome husband Hal and I have 3 amazing kids! Kyndal is 10 years old. She is very talented. She loves ballet and is currently working hard for those pointe shoes. She’s a fabulous writer; her goal is someday to publish a kid’s book. Duke is 7. He loves the outdoors, just like Dad. Watching him grow in his love for sports has been so much fun. He enjoys soccer and baseball, and we could see him as an Olympic swimmer in the future. And our little firecracker. Kapri, who’s 3, is pretending to be a dinosaur as I write this! She’s always on the go. Ballet classes won’t cut it for her, but we may try gymnastics or wrestling! She is going to be fun to watch in sports! And then there’s our little 1-year-old mini golden doodle, Rocky, the sweetest dog who loves his kids. They all keep us busy, but I have been waiting my whole life to play taxi driver and watch them excel in what they love. Thank goodness I was blessed with the best hubby; he keeps us laughing and is the glue that holds us all together.

It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Had the path been without bumps, the opportunity to glean from life’s triumphs and setbacks would have been lost. Starting at KSPR in Springfield, MO, during my college years was exhilarating; a rarity to be hired while still in school. However, everyone was let go with new ownership, leaving me newlywed without income. I swiftly took up a job selling timeshares to sustain us and quickly learned I wasn’t a salesman. But God’s timing is always best as I look back at my journey and the doors that have opened in my career and closed at the right time.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I currently serve as a News Anchor at the Fox station in Cleveland, OH, where I’ve been fortunate to work for the past 14 years, marking the longest tenure in my career. My journey began as a traffic reporter in the station’s helicopter, a thrilling experience back then—though you’d struggle to get me up there now! Throughout my career, I’ve taken pride in various accomplishments, notably spearheading the Fox 8 St. Jude Dream Home project for the last 12 years, raising almost 24 million dollars for St. Jude, thanks to our generous viewers. It’s gratifying to contribute to changing the lives of children and their families battling cancer. I’ve also cherished the opportunity to work as a sports anchor/reporter on “Friday Night Touchdown,” where I earned my first Emmy award. Bringing joy to our viewers and helping them start their day positively fuels my passion for what I do.

I’m excited about my latest project, “Off Air with Kristi Capel!” It’s been nearly a year in the making.  My podcast promises to brighten your day with laughter, motivation, and inspiration! Throughout my 14-year journey as a news anchor, I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing incredible individuals. Often, the constraints of live news do not allow us to delve deep into their stories. That’s where my podcast comes in.

Join me as we uncover the fascinating journeys of comedians, actors, and inspirational figures from all corners of the country. These are tales that resonate, stories that inspire, and beginnings that spark the imagination.  With 20 years in the news and entertainment business, former Miss Missouri USA, and mom of 3, I might have a few stories to sprinkle into the mix! We will also delve into essential and thought-provoking discussions. I am also committed to shedding light on serious issues that matter. Through the power of storytelling, “Off-Air with Kristi Capel” will kindle inspiration and foster a connection with the narratives that shape our lives. We will uncover the beauty of human tales and find joy in shared experiences. Join me as we explore the depths of inspiration and unwavering faith. You can find more information on www.KristiCapel.com and watch it on YouTube or listen to it on your favorite podcast platform. I hope you’ll check it out!

Before we go, can you talk to us about how people can work, collaborate, or support you?
Tune in to Fox 8 for Cleveland’s top-rated morning show! With a dynamic six-hour lineup, we keep it thrilling with diverse segments. For more fun, subscribe to my podcast, “Off Air with Kristi Capel” – now you can take me anywhere, whether at the gym, in the car, or out walking your dog! Each episode promises unique content that will have you laughing out loud and making it the highlight of your day!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kristicapel.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristi_capel/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KristiCapelTV
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristi-capel-54647218b/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/kristi_capel
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KristiCapelPodcast