Kayla Holt: From Newsroom Beginnings to Central Valley Today

Photo by Hannah Gonzales

For Kayla Holt, storytelling isn’t just a job, it’s a passion that’s shaped every step of her journey. Now the vibrant host of Central Valley Today on KSEE24, Kayla has built a career rooted in connection, creativity, and community.

How It All Began

“I’ve always loved storytelling and connecting with people,” Kayla says. That natural curiosity led her to study broadcast media at the University of North Texas, where she got her first real taste of life behind (and in front of) the camera working for her campus news station. “That’s where I really fell in love with being on camera and telling stories that matter.”

After graduation, Kayla dove headfirst into the industry as a multimedia journalist at KXII News in Sherman, Texas. “It was one of those jobs where you do it all, shoot, edit, write, anchor, and it taught me so much,” she recalls. Two years later, she packed her bags for California and joined KSEE24 and CBS47 in Fresno as a news reporter in 2024.

Just weeks into the new role, Kayla spotted an opening for a lifestyle host position on Central Valley Today. “I just knew I had to go for it,” she says. “I’ve always had a passion for lifestyle and entertainment, so when I got the offer, it was such a full-circle moment.”

Photo By Jacklin Yba

Proudest Career Moment for Kayla

That leap of faith paid off in a big way. “Becoming the host of Central Valley Today is definitely my proudest moment,” she shares. “It felt like everything I had worked toward finally came together — all the long hours, early mornings, and storytelling experience paid off.”

As host, Kayla gets to highlight the very best of the Central Valley; its people, places, and stories. “Getting to represent a show that shines a light on our community has been such a rewarding experience.”

A Day in the Life of Kayla Holt

Photo By Kevin Mahan

No two days ever look the same for Kayla and that’s exactly how she likes it. “I usually get to the station around 8:30 a.m., sometimes earlier if I have a morning shoot or interview,” she says. From there, she helps produce the show: coordinating guests, prepping segments, and ensuring everything’s ready for their live broadcast at 3 p.m.

Central Valley Today is a full hour of community spotlights, local businesses, and live guests plus the on-location segments Kayla films at restaurants and events across the region. “By the time the show wraps, the day’s usually flown by but there’s always something exciting around the corner.”

Looking Ahead

As she looks to the future, Kayla’s dreams are as dynamic as her energy on camera. “I’d love to continue growing my brand and creating content that entertains and uplifts people,” she says. She’s already doing that through her podcast, Krash Out With Kayla, where she dives into everything from dating and pop culture to everyday life with humor and honesty. “My ultimate dream is to keep building spaces where people can connect, laugh, and feel inspired whether it’s on TV, online, or wherever the next adventure takes me.”

Photo By Madi Barrett

Inspired By Others

Kayla’s quick to credit those who’ve inspired her along the way. “I’ve had the pleasure of working with so many amazing people early in my career,” she says. She highlights colleagues like Hannah Gonzales, Briana Byus, Vanessa Villafuerte, Mederios Babb, and Katherine Phillips. “They have this incredible ability to connect with people in such a genuine, heartfelt way. I admire how they balance warmth, professionalism, and authenticity, qualities I try to bring into my own work every day.”

How to Follow Along

You can catch Central Valley Today Monday through Wednesday at 3 p.m. on KSEE24 or explore recent segments online at yourcentralvalley.com/cvt. For behind-the-scenes fun, follow Kayla on Instagram @kaylaholt_tv.

Final Thoughts

“I feel so lucky to do what I love every day,” Kayla reflects. “Getting to share stories, meet amazing people, and shine a light on the Central Valley community truly fills me up. Whether it’s through Central Valley Today or my podcast, my hope is always to leave people feeling encouraged, entertained, and connected.”