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Top Radio News
Cumulus Media Ups Pete Mundo to VP of News/Talk
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 22, 2025 |
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Cumulus Media promotes Pete Mundo to Vice President of News/Talk, providing content counsel for the company's 43 News/Talk-formatted radio brands across the U.S. He takes the reins as VP of News/Talk from Bill Hess, who has held the position since 2015 and continues as Operations Manager of Cumulus Washington, DC and Program Director of WMAL-AM & FM.
Mundo is based in Kansas City, MO, and will continue as Program Director and morning host of KCMO Talk Radio in Kansas City, positions he's held with Cumulus Media since 2018. Mundo previously hosted national shows on FOX News Radio and CBS Sports Radio Network and was an on-air analyst for Sports Illustrated. He holds a BBA degree in Finance and Real Estate from Villanova University.
Cumulus Media Chief Content Officer Brian Philips said, "Pete has risen to stardom quickly with his on-air performance and innovative program architecture in Kansas City. Pete is among our most dynamic leaders, in ANY format. It also matters that Pete is Bill Hess's hand-chosen successor, as Bill returns to oversight of our News/Talk flagship WMAL, in the nation's capital. Bill has served with distinction in this corporate role, and Cumulus News/Talk is positioned for continued success under Pete's leadership."
Mundo commented, "I'm thrilled for the opportunity to join the content leadership team at Cumulus and am grateful for the confidence that the company has shown in me. Learning from Bill Hess in recent years has been a terrific way to make the transition seamless. The News/Talk format is changing rapidly but remains dominant in the audio industry."
He added, "The format has exceptional upside during this transitional political period, as people continue to seek news and information about their cities, states, and country. I am eager to work with my fellow News/Talk programmers across the nation to make our brands stronger."
Audio Listening Trends Return to Pre-Pandemic Normalcy
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 22, 2025 |
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A recent study by Edison Research reveals that while the COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered audio listening habits, with a marked increase in at-home audio consumption, trends are now showing a return to pre-pandemic norms.
According to Edison Research's Share of Ear report, which tracks audio consumption of Americans aged 13 and older, the majority of listening has historically occurred at home. This trend saw a sharp increase during the early months of the pandemic in 2020, with at-home listening surpassing all other locations by an additional 50 minutes per day at its peak.
The report details that at-home audio consumption did not reach its zenith until the fourth quarter of 2022, two and a half years after the initial lockdowns, where daily listening at home averaged over two and a half hours. However, as restrictions eased and normal activities resumed, audio consumption began to shift back toward a more balanced distribution across different locations.
As 2024 draws to a close, Edison's research indicates that audio listening habits are stabilizing, resembling the patterns observed before the pandemic. This shift suggests a reversion to the norm in how and where Americans consume audio content, despite initial speculations that the pandemic might have permanently changed listening behaviors.
This normalization in audio consumption patterns reflects broader societal adjustments as Americans gradually return to their pre-pandemic lifestyles, balancing at-home and out-of-home activities.
Cumulus/Shreveport Appoints Paul Farnham Jr. as VP/MM
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 22, 2025 |
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Cumulus Media appoints Paul Farnham, Jr. as the new Vice President and Market Manager for its five-station cluster in Shreveport-Bossier City, LA. Returning to his hometown, Farnham brings a deep connection to the area. His career with Cumulus Media began in 2003, and over an 11-year period, he advanced through the ranks from Key Account Manager to Director of Sales. In 2015, he moved to Townsquare Media in Lafayette, serving as General Sales Manager.
Cumulus Media Senior Vice President of Operations Mark Sullivan stated, "I am so pleased to work with Paul again as he returns home to both the market and the company. We've enjoyed many successes together and I look forward to many more in the years to come."
For Farnham, this new role is more than a job -- it's a homecoming. "Returning to Cumulus Shreveport is an incredible opportunity," he said. "The properties here are truly outstanding, and I'm excited to build on the remarkable success already established in this vibrant market. Our listeners and advertisers are the heart of our community, and I look forward to continuing to deliver exceptional value and engagement for them. Together, we'll elevate our presence and make a lasting impact."
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CJ Jackson Returns to Cumulus Savannah as PD/Afternoons
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 22, 2025 |
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CJ Jackson is appointed as Program Director and afternoon host at Urban WEAS-FM (E93) in Savannah, GA. He'll also handle nights at Urban AC WTYB-FM (Magic 103.9). The appointment marks Jackson's return to Cumulus Savannah, where he previously aired in nights from 2012 to 2015. Most recently, he served as Music Director at Cumulus in Charleston, SC, since August. Before his stint in Charleston, Jackson was PD for iHeartMedia in Savannah, overseeing WLVH-FM and WQBT-FM from 2016 through 2024.
Cumulus Savannah Vice President and Market Manager Eric Mastel expressed enthusiasm about Jackson's return, citing his "deep community and client relationships and great passion for this market" as key factors that will "elevate our brands."
Jackson added, "It feels good to come back to the two stations that gave me my start," he said. "I look forward to helping usher in this new era of radio with my Cumulus family."
Westwood One Expands ''America at Night with Rich Valdes''
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 22, 2025 |
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Westwood One's syndicated talk show, "America at Night with Rich Valdes," has kicked off 2025 with a new live time slot, while welcoming 25 new affiliates across the U.S. in January. The program now airs live each weekday from 9pm-12midnight ET, and is heard in over 250 markets nationwide, including all the top 10 U.S. DMA markets.
Among the notable new affiliates are WMAL-FM in Washington DC, KSEV-AM in Houston and KKAT-AM in Salt Lake City. Valdes, known for his engaging and lively presentation, discusses various topics with politicians, influencers, entertainers and everyday Americans, providing a platform for a wide array of voices and perspectives.
Recent notable guests on the show include President Donald Trump, sportscaster Steven A. Smith and television personality Dr. Phil. The show also features "Open Phone America," a segment that invites listeners to share their opinions and contribute to the conversation, enhancing the show's interactive nature.
Valdes expressed his enthusiasm about the show's expansion, saying, "Thank you, Jesus! I'm super excited to be on all of these new stations in great cities, and welcome all of our new listeners to join our live late-night national town hall conversation and encourage them to call in on Open Phone across America."
Cumulus Expands Board with Financial Expert Galbraith
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 22, 2025 |
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Cumulus Media has officially appointed Steven M. Galbraith, an experienced investor and financial strategist, to its board of directors. This addition comes as part of the company's ongoing efforts to enhance its strategic planning and growth initiatives.
Andrew W. Hobson, the Chairman of Cumulus Media, expressed his enthusiasm about Galbraith's appointment. "Steve brings a wealth of expertise in investment management, which will be invaluable as we seek new avenues for growth and enhancement of shareholder value," Hobson stated. Galbraith's deep-rooted involvement as a major shareholder also positions him uniquely to understand the company's operational and financial dynamics intimately.
Galbraith currently manages Kindred Capital Advisors LLC and holds a significant investment in Cumulus through both personal and institutional avenues. His career includes pivotal roles such as the Chief Investment Officer at Morgan Stanley, where he significantly influenced investment strategies. Beyond his corporate achievements, Galbraith's academic involvement includes a stint as an Adjunct Professor at Columbia University Business School, where he taught securities analysis from 1998 to 2008.
His advisory role at the Office of Financial Research following the Dodd-Frank Act illustrates his commitment to enhancing financial stability and transparency in the U.S. financial system. Furthermore, Galbraith's philanthropic and advisory endeavors span across prominent organizations such as the Success Academy Charter Schools and the National Constitution Center.
FCC Chairman Carr Announces New Acting Leadership
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 22, 2025 |
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FCC Chairman Brendan Carr today announced a series of appointments to key acting leadership positions within the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), including the designation of an Acting General Counsel and Managing Director. These changes come as part of a broader initiative to ensure the FCC continues its mission effectively.
Joel Taubenblatt has been named Acting Chief of the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau. With a deep background in various leadership roles within the Bureau, Taubenblatt's expertise spans from economic to broadband policies. He holds law and economics degrees from Duke University and the University of Pennsylvania respectively.
Trent Harkrader will serve as the Acting Chief of the Wireline Competition Bureau. Harkrader has played a crucial role in the implementation of significant broadband policy initiatives and universal service reforms. His experience includes a focus on broadband adoption and telehealth under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021. Harkrader received his legal education at Southern Methodist University.
Erin Boone takes over as Acting Chief of the Media Bureau. Boone, who has previously advised on wireless and enforcement issues and worked in both the private and public sectors, brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She earned her law degree from the Catholic University of America.
Debra Jordan has been appointed Acting Chief of the Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau. Her extensive experience includes leading emergency preparedness efforts and managing critical communications systems within the Department of Defense before joining the FCC. Jordan is a recipient of multiple Navy civilian service awards.
Jacob Lewis has been named Acting General Counsel. A veteran of the FCC and the U.S. Department of Justice, Lewis's extensive legal background will be instrumental in guiding the FCC's legal strategies. He is a Harvard Law School graduate.
Patrick Webre, previously involved in various capacities within the FCC, is now the Acting Chief of the Enforcement Bureau. His broad experience across different bureaus and in private practice will serve him well in this role. Webre holds a law degree from Tulane University Law School.
Eduard Bartholme has been designated Acting Chief of the Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau. Before this appointment, Bartholme was deeply involved in the FCC's broadband data initiatives and consumer outreach programs.
Finally, Mark Stephens has been appointed as the Managing Director of the FCC. Stephens, formerly the Chief Financial Officer in the Office of Managing Director, will oversee the FCC's operational and administrative functions. He holds a Master's in Telecommunications from George Washington University.
Chairman Carr expressed his gratitude for the new appointees, stating, "I am grateful that these talented public servants have agreed to join me in leading the FCC's work and ensuring that we deliver great results for the American people. They will play integral roles in carrying out the FCC's important mission."
Podtrac Adds Smartlinks and Apple & Spotify Rankings
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 22, 2025 |
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Podtrac, a podcast analytics and marketing platform, has unveiled two new tools aimed at helping podcasters grow their audiences and optimize promotional strategies: Smartlinks and Apple & Spotify Rankings.
Smartlinks, a major addition to Podtrac's toolkit, allows podcasters to create custom links that track the efficacy of various promotional campaigns. When a listener uses one of these links, they are directed to a Podtrac landing page that gathers comprehensive data such as click counts, download totals, new listener figures, and conversion rates. This real-time tracking enables podcasters to precisely measure the success of their promotional activities across different platforms like social media and email newsletters.
Complementing Smartlinks, Podtrac has also expanded its services to include detailed tracking of podcast rankings on major platforms such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Podcasters can now access daily updates on their show's standings, comparing performance across different countries, categories, and subcategories for up to two years. This feature offers invaluable insights into audience engagement and competitive positioning.
Available through Podtrac's Grow Your Show subscription plan, these features provide podcasters with a set of tools to monitor their show's performance and strategize effectively. The plan also grants access to historical data, further aiding in trend analysis and long-term planning.
A spokesperson for Podtrac expressed enthusiasm about the launch, stating, "We're excited to introduce these features, which will make it easier than ever for podcasters to track, analyze, and optimize their shows and promotional strategies. These tools are designed to help podcasters grow their audience and continue to innovate in the dynamic world of podcasting."
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''The Other Moonshot'' Spotlights Forgotten Black Engineers
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 22, 2025 |
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LAist Studios is set to premiere "The Other Moonshot" on January 29, a new podcast series that brings to light the pivotal yet overlooked contributions of three Black aerospace engineers to the Apollo missions. Hosted by Joanne Higgins, the four-part series will delve into the stories of Charlie Cheathem, Nathaniel LeVert, and the late Shelby Jacobs who faced significant racial barriers while shaping America's lunar ambitions.
The series is part of KPCC (LAist)'s "LA Made," which profiles California's trailblazers. This season focuses on the trio's herculean efforts during the 1960s at North American Aviation in Los Angeles, where they overcame rampant discrimination to solve some of NASA's most challenging engineering problems.
Higgins, inspired by her godfather Cheathem's legacy, embarked on this project to ensure the engineers' stories are remembered. "It's been an ambition of mine for many years to get their story out there. And now it is. It's my gift to Charlie," said Higgins.
"Blood, Sweat & Rockets," the first season of "LA Made," initially brought LAist Studios to these engineers' stories, sparking the creation of "The Other Moonshot." According to Shana Naomi Krochmal, VP of Podcasting at LAist, the podcast not only explores the scientific achievements of these engineers but also their struggle for recognition and equality in the workplace.
The series promises an intimate look at the professional and personal battles these engineers faced, narrated through firsthand accounts from Cheathem and LeVert, as well as archival insights from Jacobs.
Listeners can subscribe to "The Other Moonshot" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms, with episodes to be released weekly starting next Wednesday.
TuneIn to Stream ''Jeopardy! Tournament of Champions''
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, January 22, 2025 |
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TuneIn in collaboration with Sony Pictures Television, has announced the premiere of the Jeopardy! Tournament of Champions Exhibition Game. This special event, free to all listeners, will feature the top three Jeopardy! champions from the recent season. The exhibition game is scheduled to air live on January 24 at 7pm ET on Jeopardy! Radio, available through TuneIn, with on-demand access following the premiere.
The game will showcase Adriana Harmeyer, Isaac Hirsch and Drew Basile, the highest-ranked champions from this year's Jeopardy! season. These players, with 15, 9, and 7 wins respectively, will be seeded directly into the semifinal round of the upcoming 2025 Tournament of Champions. The exhibition match offers a unique preview, allowing these top contenders to test their knowledge against each other before the official tournament begins.
Sally Umsted, Vice President of Consumer Products and Licensing for Sony Pictures Television, emphasized the significance of this event. "The Tournament of Champions is always full of surprises, and this exhibition game is a great opportunity for this season's top-ranked champions to sharpen their skills," Umsted said.
In addition to debuting the new exhibition game, the partnership between Sony Pictures Television and TuneIn will extend to continue the exclusive distribution of Jeopardy! Radio and Jeopardy! Radio Classic. These platforms offer fans a curated experience of the show's most memorable episodes and nearly 40 years of gameplay, providing an engaging way for listeners to test their knowledge.
Kevin Straley, Chief Content Officer at TuneIn, highlighted the enduring popularity of Jeopardy! among listeners. "The fast-paced gameplay of Jeopardy! is perfect for audio and continues to be a fan favorite," Straley noted. "Our extended partnership with Sony allows us to keep offering round-the-clock access to America's favorite quiz show and introduce exciting, new content like the Tournament of Champions Exhibition Game."
Fans can tune into the special exhibition game via Jeopardy! Radio on TuneIn this January 24.
Brian Long Named PD for iHeartMedia/Los Angeles Trio
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, January 21, 2025 |
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iHeartMedia taps Brian Long as Program Director for three of its Los Angeles stations, including KFI-AM, KLAC-AM (570 LA Sports) and KEIB-AM (1150 The Patriot), effective January 27. Long most recently served as Director of Programming for Bonneville's cluster in Phoenix and PD of KMVP and KTAR-AM. Before that Long was PD for News/Talk KOGO-AM and Sports KGB-AM in San Diego. Previously, he worked for co-owned Sports KIRO-AM (710 ESPN) in Seattle as PD.
iHeartMedia Los Angeles Executive Vice President of Programming John Peake praised Long's appointment, noting his comprehensive expertise and proven success in the industry. "Brian brings a wealth of experience that is perfectly suited for the diversity of our Los Angeles market. His record of achieving both ratings and revenue growth, as well as his experience with professional play-by-play broadcasting, aligns with our strategic goals, especially as we continue our partnerships with major sports teams like the Dodgers and the Los Angeles Chargers," Peake said.
"I am thrilled to take on this role and eager to contribute to the continued success of these esteemed stations," Long commented. "Los Angeles is a vibrant and dynamic market, and I look forward to delivering exceptional content to our diverse listenership."
John Peake Adds Programming Duties for KOST in Los Angeles
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, January 21, 2025 |
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John Peake will take over as Program Director for KOST-FM in Los Angeles, effective immediately. In addition to the PD role, Peake will maintain his positions as Program Director of 104.3 MYFM, Hot AC Brand Manager and Executive VP of Programming for iHeartMedia in Los Angeles. Peake has previously served as the Operations Manager for iHeartMedia Seattle, and spent four years as the Regional Senior Vice President for iHeartMedia's Riverside and San Diego stations.
Prior to joining iHeartMedia in 2009 as the Show Director for the "Johnjay & Rich Show" in Phoenix, Peake's radio career included stops in San Francisco, Houston, Tucson, Denver and Birmingham.
"I am thrilled to be taking over as Program Director of KOST," said Peake. "This is an exciting opportunity to be part of the talented team including Ellen K in the Morning. I look forward to leveraging the KOST brand to drive exceptional engagement for our listeners, clients and other stakeholders."
"John is a super-star performer and icon in the industry," said iHeartMedia Division President Paul Corvino. "I have full confidence that his leadership will propel KOST 103.5 to even greater success."
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Christopher Layfield Joins VOX AM FM Digital as OM/PD
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, January 21, 2025 |
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VOX AM FM Digital appoints Christopher "Boomer" Layfield as its new Operations Manager and Program Director, effective February 14. Layfield will also take on roles as an air talent across the company's cluster, which includes Country WCPV-FM, Sports WEAV AM & FM, AC WEZF-FM, and several others reaching Burlington VT, Plattsburgh NY, and parts of Montreal, Canada.
In his new role, Layfield will oversee the programming and operational aspects of seven radio brands. He brings a wealth of experience from various markets across the U.S. to his new post. Layfield will also serve as the Program Director for WCPV-FM (101.3 The Wolf) and host afternoons on WEZF-FM (Star 92.9).
Commenting on his appointment, Layfield expressed enthusiasm about aligning his career with a company that values local, live content and community engagement. "Private ownership with a passion for great radio and community service aligns perfectly with my principles. I am excited to join such a talented team and to elevate these already successful brands," he said.
Layfield also humorously noted his anticipation to utilize his French language skills, acquired during his college years, in the culturally rich region of Montreal.
David Goddette, General Manager of VOX AM FM Digital stated, "Boomer's diverse background and passion make him an ideal fit for this crucial role. We are thrilled to have him on our Vermont team."
iHeartMedia/San Francisco Appoints Alan Hirschbein VP/Sales
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, January 21, 2025 |
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iHeartMedia/San Francisco appoints Alan Hirschbein as its new Vice President of Sales for the Bay Area. With a career spanning over two decades in the media industry, Hirschbein brings extensive experience in broadcast and digital media to his new role. He previously worked in media sales and strategy at companies such as CBS Radio, Inner City Broadcasting and most recently, SiriusXM.
In his new position, Hirschbein will report directly to AJ Punjabi, Region President of iHeartMedia San Francisco. Punjabi praised Hirschbein's comprehensive background in both traditional and digital media, highlighting his results-driven approach and dedication to client success as key factors in strengthening iHeartMedia's market presence across various platforms.
"Alan's deep experience and success in integrating advertising campaigns that span both traditional and digital platforms make him the ideal leader to propel our business objectives forward," Punjabi commented.
Hirschbein expressed enthusiasm about his new role, emphasizing iHeartMedia's leadership in both the broadcast radio market and the evolving fields of podcasting and digital audio. "Joining iHeartMedia's outstanding leadership team presents a unique opportunity to further innovate and leverage the vast reach and engagement capabilities of this industry leader," he stated.
Townsquare Media Previews 2024 Financial Results
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, January 21, 2025 |
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Townsquare Media has released its preliminary estimated financial results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2024, aligning closely with the forecasts made during the third quarter earnings call. The company expects the full year net revenue to fall between $450 million and $452 million, and Adjusted EBITDA to reach approximately $100 million, both figures meeting the upper bounds of their previous guidance.
The fourth quarter saw significant strides in Townsquare's digital divisions, with Townsquare Interactive achieving year-over-year revenue growth and Digital Advertising net revenue soaring beyond 15%, spurred by national digital advertising and robust digital programmatic business. Consequently, digital revenue is projected to represent 52% of the company's total net revenue in 2024, marking a significant shift from its original local broadcast radio origins.
Bill Wilson, CEO of Townsquare Media, commented on the company's trajectory, "Our transformation into a Digital First Local Media Company has not only diversified our revenue streams but also solidified our position as a leader in the local media landscape." He highlighted the expansion of the Media Partnerships division, which provides digital advertising solutions to other local media firms. Recent partnerships, including a new agreement with a local media provider in two non-overlapping markets, are set to further extend Townsquare's digital footprint.
In terms of financial health, Townsquare ended the year with a strong balance sheet, retiring approximately $12 million of Senior Secured Notes in the fourth quarter alone and concluding 2024 with $467 million of debt and $33 million in cash reserves. These moves underscore the company's ability to generate cash and manage liabilities effectively.
RAB to Host Webinar on Nielsen Audio's Measurement
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, January 21, 2025 |
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The Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB) has announced an upcoming webinar entitled "Better Together in 2025: A Unified Approach to Nielsen's Measurement Modernization," scheduled for January 29 at noon CT. This event marks the first in a series of live online presentations aimed at exploring the impact of Nielsen Audio's recent shift to a 3-minute qualifier for radio metrics.
RAB President and CEO Mike Hulvey will lead the webinar, featuring insights from C-Suite executives across the radio industry. The session is designed to equip radio broadcasters and advertisers with strategies to effectively harness this change, showcasing radio's enduring value from local markets to national investors.
The webinar is open to all professionals within the radio and advertising sectors. Interested parties are encouraged to register to gain access to this critical discussion on adapting to Nielsen's updated measurement standards and to explore tools that will enhance their engagement with audiences and advertisers alike. To register, click here.
Inrush Broadcast Services Expands Leadership Team, Reach
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, January 21, 2025 |
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Inrush Broadcast Services appoints Rob Bertrand as a new partner. Bertrand has extensive experience in public and commercial broadcasting and will focus on expanding the firm's East Coast operations. He joins a team of partners at Inrush, including founders Mike Dorris, Brian Sapp, Shaun Dolan and Cameron Boswell, in steering the 14-person firm toward new heights in technological innovation and operations.
"Rob's addition to our team aligns with our core values of innovation and service excellence. His impressive background in technology leadership within public media and major-market broadcasting will be invaluable as we look to broaden our reach and enhance the quality of our services," said Mike Dorris, Founder of Inrush.
Prior to joining Inrush, Bertrand served as the technology head at WAMU in Washington, DC, where he was instrumental in overseeing the construction of DC's largest community antenna system and spearheading the launch of several critical multiplatform content management systems. His leadership during the pandemic guided WAMU through a transition to 100% remote production, a critical shift in continuing operations during unprecedented times.
With a background that includes a tenure as Market Chief Engineer for CBS Radio in New York, Bertrand brings a deep understanding of the needs and challenges faced by broadcast operations. His career began at Greater Media in New Jersey, and he plans to continue residing in the DC area, where he will serve Inrush's growing East Coast client base.
"I am excited to join a team that not only values technological innovation but also deeply cares about the development of their people and the communities they serve," Bertrand commented. "I look forward to contributing to our future successes and pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve in the broadcasting industry."
Brian Sapp, Partner at Inrush, echoed this enthusiasm, noting, "The growth we've achieved in the last five years has been phenomenal, and Rob's expertise will undoubtedly help us continue on this upward trajectory."
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