A native of Independence, Missouri, Joe McLean began his work in journalism contributing to ABC 17 News (KMIZ) in Columbia, Missouri. There, he worked his way through multiple roles including production assistant, photographer, multimedia journalist, investigative reporter, anchor and bureau chief. Joe also anchored hourly radio news updates for 93.9 The Eagle FM and other properties of Zimmer Radio & Marketing Group.
In 2015, Joe earned a Bachelor of Journalism degree from the University of Missouri, emphasizing convergence and emerging media. He also earned a certificate of multicultural studies at Mizzou. In 2019, Joe was appointed as an adjunct faculty member at the prestigious Missouri School of Journalism, teaching applied projects for journalism and strategic communication. He is also a member of Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE), the National Association of Television Arts and Sciences and the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ).
Joe has a great passion for journalism and fact-driven storytelling. His investigative and breaking news reporting yielded multiple accolades from the Missouri Broadcasters Association, the Kansas City Press Club and the Florida Association of Broadcast Journalists.
With WJXT, Joe covers education and breaking news. He is a frequent contributor to the News4Jax I-team and Trust Index coverage. Additionally, Joe has been a repeated guest on WJCT News' First Coast Connect Friday Media Round Table, offering analysis and commentary on the week's top stories.