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Braden Bates

KSHB

Reporter/MMJ

Send Braden an email.

When did you start working here?
I started working at KSHB 41 News in November 2025.

Where else have you worked?
Before starting at KSHB, I was in Tulsa at 2 News Oklahoma. I spent two and a half years in Tulsa as a digital content producer before making the switch to on-air reporting. My Tulsa station is also a E.W. Scipps owned station and NBC affiliate so the transition to KSHB was smooth.

Where did you go to college?
I went to Columbia College Chicago. I spent three and a half years in Chicago, finishing out my college career in Los Angeles with a Semester in LA program offered through my school. I graduated with a BA in Journalism with an emphasis in television.

What are you most proud of when it comes to your work?
I’m proud of my connection with people. I was raised to embrace empathy and use it as a strength. You’ll notice I will often try new and innovative ways to tell stories. Every day and piece I produce is different. I often surprise myself, which I find exhilarating.

What are you most proud of in your own life?
I’m most proud of my support system and the people around me. I’ve lived in several cities, which can be scary, especially in those early months. My support system is what keeps me going and gets me through any challenge I may face.

What do you love about living in the KC area?
I LOVE the people. From day one, people have shared kindness and started a conversation with me just with a simple, “hi.” My favorite thing is the two-minute elevator conversations in my apartment complex. It’s become a challenge every time I leave a shared elevator ride to know an interesting fact about the person I rode with.

What are your favorite local hangouts/places, sports & cultural institutions?
If I had an hour to burn in Kansas City, I love driving through the neighborhoods off Ward Parkway. I like the Crossroads area and the artistic murals and shops there. Mildred’s and The Wise Guy are also top favorites.

All-time favorites....
Movie: Titanic (It’s a cinematic masterpiece!)
Shows: Two comfort shows I always go back to are Grey’s Anatomy (ALL seasons) and Parks and Rec.
Music: I love a ballad or country pop. Any song that separates a vocalist from a singer. There is a difference.

Other than KSHB.com and KSHB 41, you get your news from….
Other than KSHB, I get my news primarily from NBC. I like Nightly News with Tom Llamas and the TODAY Show.

Apps you can't live without :
I’m a fan of YouTube, TikTok, and any crossword or solitaire adaptation app. I think games that keep you thinking have big benefits.

Contact Braden

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