“I love my job because I get to meet new people every day and learn so much about the world we live in.”
Phil Blauer is an award-winning broadcast journalist with 35 years of experience.
Before joining FOX 5 News as an anchor/reporter, Phil spent time across town at KFMB, in Los Angeles at KCBS, KCAL and KCOP and in Palm Springs at KESQ. He has also appeared on Crime Watch Daily, Investigation Discovery, CNN and 48 Hours.
He has covered major national and international stories and has interviewed six U.S. Presidents. Phil has received numerous Emmys, the Edward R. Murrow Award for Investigative Reporting and San Diego Press Club honors.
Raised in Santa Ana, California, Phil started honing his journalism skills while working on student newspapers all the way through high school. He went on to study Communications at Cal State Fullerton, where he received his bachelor’s degree in Print Journalism.
Phil dabbled in radio by anchoring a weekly public affairs program broadcast over several Southland stations. But there was something missing — it was the visual aspect of storytelling. He ended up getting a master’s degree in Broadcast News from USC.
When he’s not chasing stories, Phil unwinds by listening to all kinds of music, including Smooth Jazz fusion and 70’s tunes. He also enjoys sampling fine restaurants around San Diego County, especially Mexican and Italian eateries.
You asked…
If I wasn’t in TV News: I would host a radio show playing 70’s, 80’s and 90’s songs.
What is something no one knows: I was part of a pirate radio station in high school. After my first day on-the-air, my mother told me she was also a high school DJ. Broadcasting is in my blood.
On my days off, I can be found: Trying to sleep in before doing something fun anywhere in America’s Finest City.
My most memorable TV moment: While covering flooding in the Tijuana River Valley, I had my life saved by swift water rescue crews after a levee broke and nearly caused me to drown.
Favorite community contribution: Serving a hot meal during the Salvation Army’s annual Thanksgiving Day feast.
If I had free time, I would: Take a long European and Pacific Island vacation. Learn how to really play golf. Start a profitable podcast with a good friend.
My guilty pleasure is: Watching a reality TV show after a stressful news day while drinking a Dr. Pepper and eating a piece of chocolate.
