WBBJ says farewell to reporter/anchor Ryan Hodges

The WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News team is saying farewell to reporter/anchor Ryan Hodges.

Whether he is in studio for Good Morning West Tennessee, talking game highlights with Zach during Football Friday Night, or out in the field covering the latest story, Ryan has worked hard to bring impactful news coverage to West Tennessee over the years.

As he signs off of WBBJ-TV for the last time, we had a few questions about his time reporting in our community.

What have you enjoyed most about reporting in West Tennessee?

This is home. This will always be home. Being able to tell the stories of my friends, neighbors, and people I consider family is something I will never take for granted. I have met so many people around West Tennessee and learned so much more than I ever knew was possible. West Tennessee is truly special. Not because of the location, but because of the people. For that I am grateful.

What are some of the most memorable stories that you’ve helped tell?

Watching the Freed-Hardeman Men’s Basketball team win the National Championship, interviewing their coach Drew Stutts, who is a close friend, directly after the game was incredibly special.

Also, while local government meetings can certainly be boring sometimes, what I learned throughout the hundreds of meetings is invaluable. City Council, County Commission, and School Board meetings are so incredibly important, and I urge everyone to pay attention to them as much as you can.

What advice do you have for future reporters preparing for their first job?

Make mistakes early. Do not be nervous to mess up. You will, and it is okay. The quicker this is learned, the more comfortable you will be. Anyone who watches Good Morning West Tennessee knows how often I mess up. It is okay, and sometimes you can have fun with your mistakes.

What would you say to the viewers who have supported you?

You are not just viewers. You are people I have known for years, some even my whole life. Some of you I have just known since I started this job three years ago. But you are more than viewers; you are my fellow community members. I would not have been able to do my job every day without your encouragement, input, ideas, and friendship. Thank you.

I may be moving out of state, but I have so much here in West Tennessee. You will still see me around more than you may think. Please come and say hello if you see me!

Ryan will be missed dearly around our newsroom. Please join us in wishing him the best of luck as he takes his next steps!

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