After more than four decades in journalism, Fred Ehrlich, the Politics Editor at St. Louis Public Radio (STLPR), is set to retire on Friday. His departure marks the end of a significant tenure shaping reporting and mentoring young journalists in St. Louis.
Ehrlich discussed his journey and impact in an interview on “St. Louis on the Air” with host Elaine Cha. He emphasized the critical role of editors in journalism, stating that they not only polish stories but also mentor reporters, helping them to hone their skills and elevate their work.
A storied career
A native of New Jersey, Ehrlich graduated from the University of Wisconsin in Madison, earning degrees in journalism and political science. His passion for journalism began early; he started distributing newspapers as a child and served as the editor of his high school newspaper.
Following graduation, Ehrlich began his journalistic career at the Belleville News-Democrat, advancing from a business reporter to business editor and then assistant metro editor. Initially missing the writing aspect of journalism, he eventually found fulfillment in his editorial role, which he held for 13 years.
After a brief period at the Tampa Tribune, Ehrlich returned to the Midwest and became the St. Charles bureau chief for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. There, he focused on local news and public service journalism until layoffs in 2015 prompted his move to STLPR.
His transition to radio as politics editor coincided with the emergence of the Eric Greitens scandal, which dominated headlines. “It was my third day on the job,” Ehrlich recalled. The breaking news required rapid adjustments and set the tone for his subsequent years at STLPR, where he built a reputation for remaining steady under pressure.
A legacy of talent
Ehrlich has earned respect from his colleagues, who credit him with creating a supportive environment for young journalists at STLPR. Brian Heffernan, managing editor of audience and product, noted, “Fred edits with a sharp eye and leads with a big, caring heart. He’s been the STLPR office dad and a mentor to me for the better part of a decade.”
Contributions from reporters highlighted the profound impact Ehrlich had on their careers. Statehouse reporter Sarah Kellogg remarked, “You’ve been such a guiding yet calming force at the helm of the politics team, and you’re the best boss I’ve ever had.”
Jason Rosenbaum, another STLPR journalist, expressed deep gratitude, stating, “Fred deserves the best retirement ever, and I’m forever grateful for everything he’s done for me as a journalist and a person.”
What comes next
Ehrlich is ready to embrace retirement, seeking a slower pace and leisurely mornings with coffee. Despite the challenges facing journalism, he remains optimistic. “People still want news. There needs to be public service journalism, watchdog journalism,” he said, praising the public radio model as effective and community-focused.
As he departs, Ehrlich encouraged his colleagues to continue their important work, stating, “Keep doing what you’re doing because you know now more than ever, public service journalism is so needed.” More of his reflections on his career and the state of journalism will air on the November 12 episode of “St. Louis on the Air.”
