Audacy Highlights Radio's Digital Growth on Natl. Radio Day

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, August 20, 2025 | 9:50am CT

Audacy Insights

Audacy is marking National Radio Day by highlighting how radio has expanded into a multi-platform medium that continues to play a central role in listeners' daily lives.

In a new article from its Research & Insights team, Audacy points to radio's evolution from broadcast-only delivery to an experience available across streaming, smart speakers, mobile devices, and connected platforms. The piece emphasizes that while technology has changed, radio's core strength remains its ability to connect audiences with trusted voices and live, local content.

"Radio is not just something you tune into anymore. It's something that tunes into you, wherever you are and whatever you're doing," said Ray Borelli, Audacy's Senior Vice President of Research & Insights.

Streaming Growth

Streaming has become a significant driver of listening growth, with Audacy reporting that usage has nearly doubled over the past decade. The company notes that the ability to follow teams, personalities, and formats beyond local markets has expanded reach and engagement.

WFAN New York is cited as an example of this transition. The station, which launched as the country's first all-sports format, has grown its footprint from AM to FM, digital streaming, social media, and live events. It now ranks as the top streaming station in the U.S., with audiences that rival traditional broadcast outlets.

Talent and Connection

Audacy's research shows that listener connection to hosts continues to drive loyalty, with respondents twice as likely to say they listen more when they feel connected to on-air personalities. The company also points to research indicating that talent endorsements remain highly influential for advertisers.

"Radio's power is the talent that makes a difference in somebody's life in some way, shape, or form," said Gary Sarner of ROI360 during an Audacy Insights webinar.

Advertising Impact

The report highlights streaming radio's advertising potential, noting that it delivers 60 percent more ad-supported listening than Spotify and more than any other streaming music platform. Unlike television, which has faced disruption from cord-cutting, radio continues to provide live, original, and local programming around the clock.

Adapting Across Generations

Audacy also stresses radio's ability to adapt to shifting media habits. Gen Z, Gen X, and Boomer audiences each engage with radio through different devices, yet the medium remains consistent in providing live programming, companionship, and trusted information.

The article concludes that more than a century after its inception, radio continues to grow its role as both a daily habit and a digital companion for listeners, while offering advertisers opportunities across broadcast and streaming platforms.

Read the entire article here.