Update on Former WTOPer Paul Brandus

Paul Brandus has been spending much of his time in England in recent years while working toward a doctorate in economics. Even from overseas, the longtime Washington journalist says he still keeps a close eye on what’s happening back home. Brandus has had what he calls a “front row seat to history,” including being in Berlin when the Wall came down, in Moscow during the collapse of the Soviet Union, and in Manhattan on 9/11.

Many locally remember Brandus from his years at WTOP, where he worked under Jim Farley (the legendary news executive who passed away in 2024). Brandus says Farley first hired him as a desk assistant at NBC Radio in the early 1980s before the two later reunited at WTOP. He says Farley selected him to report from Iraq during the early days of the war, an experience he called unforgettable. Brandus added that WTOP “remains a terrific station with an important mission” and wished everyone there the best. In addition to his radio work, Brandus also spent years producing television programming for NBC, MSNBC, CNBC, and FOX.

Beyond broadcasting, Brandus has authored books, worked on Wall Street, and spent more than 20 years in venture capital. Now, he’s preparing for another media venture. He tells DCRTV that he’s a partner in a new streaming channel expected to launch in the first quarter of 2027. While the name has not yet been announced pending trademark clearance, Brandus says the service will be similar to Tubi and Roku, featuring TV shows, movies, sports, anime, and other programming.