Top Radio News

Poll: Strong Bipartisan Support for Public Radio Funding

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 15, 2025 | 5:20pm CT

National Public Radio (NPR)

A new national poll conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of NPR finds that two-thirds of Americans support continued federal funding for public radio, with broad bipartisan approval and high levels of trust in public radio's role in emergency communication and community service.

According to the survey, 66% of U.S. adults say they support federal funding for public radio, and the same percentage agree that it represents a good value for taxpayer dollars. The sentiment crosses political lines: 58% of Republicans and 77% of Democrats back the funding, while 59% of Republicans and 76% of Democrats believe it's a worthwhile investment.

The poll also found that 70% of Americans are familiar with public radio, and over one-third (36%) use it weekly - including 36% of Republicans and 40% of Democrats.

Public radio's role in public safety emerged as a strong point of consensus. Nearly three in four Americans (73%) - including 77% of Republicans and 78% of Democrats - say they rely on public radio alerts and news for emergency information.

Americans also view public radio as a trusted and valuable institution in their communities. About 71% said it is a valuable service locally, and 69% expressed trust in the news and information it provides. That includes 64% of Republicans and 81% of Democrats who see public radio as beneficial to their communities.

The Harris Poll was conducted online from July 9-11 among 2,089 U.S. adults ages 18 and older. The margin of error is ±2.5 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.

Bruce Logan Returns to Audacy Houston as VP/P

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 15, 2025 | 6:36pm CT

Bruce Logan

Veteran radio programmer Bruce Logan has reported rejoined Audacy Houston as Vice President of Programming and Program Director for Country KILT-FM (100.3 The Bull). While the company has not yet made an official announcement, the move marks a return to familiar territory for Logan, who previously held the same roles before departing in 2019. He replaces Melissa Chase, who exited the position last month.

Before his latest appointment, Logan served as Operations Manager for Hubbard Broadcasting in West Palm Beach, where he also programmed Country WIRK (New Country 103.1) and AC WEAT (Sunny 107.9). He parted ways with Hubbard earlier this year and expressed his appreciation for the company and its leadership, while signaling interest in future opportunities in the evolving audio landscape.

Logan originally joined the Houston market in 2015, then under Entercom, where he led programming efforts for both KILT-FM and KKHH-FM. Prior to that, he held a national leadership role with iHeartMedia as National Country Brand Coordinator and Regional Vice President of Programming. His earlier programming stops included WKKT/Charlotte, WTQR/Greensboro, and Country outlets WSSL and WESC in Greenville, SC.

Red Apple Media Appoints Bert Goldman as CTO

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 15, 2025 | 2:11pm CT

Bert Goldman

Red Apple Media names veteran broadcast engineer Bert Goldman as its new Chief Technology Officer. He brings more than 50 years of radio engineering experience to the role, with a deep background in station construction, facility upgrades, signal optimization, and regulatory compliance. Goldman has previously held high-level engineering roles at major broadcasting firms, including ABC/Disney, Nationwide Communications, and Shamrock Broadcasting.

"As Red Apple Media continues to enlarge its footprint in radio, we recognized a need for an engineering specialist with insights that will bolster our growth strategy as we identify properties for our expansion," said The announcement was made by Red Apple CEO John Catsimatidis. "Bert's experience made him the perfect choice."

"Bert has the major market experience we were looking for to help us take Red Apple Media to the next level," Lopez added. "He's worked with some of the biggest broadcasting companies in the industry. He understands our goals and will help us get there."

This marks a return to familiar ground for Goldman, who worked with 77WABC Radio-Red Apple's New York flagship-during his time at ABC/Disney. "I'm eager to come home to 77WABC and join Red Apple Media as it enters its next growth phase," said President Chad Lopez. "John has revived AM Talk Radio with big-name hosts and created renewed excitement for broadcast radio overall."

At ABC/Disney, Goldman served as Corporate Vice President of Engineering, overseeing more than 100 owned-and-operated stations across brands including ESPN Radio and Radio Disney, as well as the ABC Radio Network. His work included numerous signal improvement initiatives in over half of the top 25 radio markets.

Goldman is also an active contributor to industry groups such as the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and the National Radio Systems Committee (NRSC).

SiriusXM Adds Low-Cost, Ad-Supported Subscription Plan

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 15, 2025 | 6:51pm CT

SiriusXM

SiriusXM has unveiled SiriusXM Play, a new low-cost, ad-supported subscription package aimed at attracting more price-sensitive consumers and expanding its reach across North America. Priced at under $7 per month, the new plan offers access to more than 130 curated music, talk, and sports channels in vehicles, with additional streaming options available via the SiriusXM app.

Currently available on a limited basis, SiriusXM Play is expected to scale further in the coming months, with full pricing and package details to be announced later in 2025.

"With Play, we can reach and engage with new, more price-sensitive listeners... and leverage our strengths across both content and technology as the premium audio leader in-car," said Wayne Thorsen, SiriusXM's Chief Operating Officer.

SiriusXM Play brings a subset of the company's premium programming to subscribers, including music, sports, news, comedy, and talk channels. The service is compatible with 360L-equipped vehicles, allowing access to additional in-car features and channels. Outside of the vehicle, subscribers can stream content through the SiriusXM app, which includes on-demand shows, artist stations, and podcasts.

In addition to attracting new users, Play opens new opportunities for advertisers. For the first time, marketers will be able to access ad inventory on SiriusXM's music channels, historically ad-free, alongside its talk and sports content. SiriusXM says Play's ad load will be roughly half that of traditional AM/FM radio.

Scott Walker, Chief Advertising Revenue Officer at SiriusXM, called Play "an exciting net-new opportunity" for marketers. "In the short term, we are opening up new inventory for marketers, including premium, curated music," Walker said. "In the long term... we have a chance to revolutionize the in-car advertising landscape."

iHeartRadio Launches Thank a Teacher Campaign

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 15, 2025 | 6:59pm CT

Thank a Teacher

iHeartMedia has teamed up with education nonprofit DonorsChoose to launch iHeartRadio's Thank a Teacher, a month-long national campaign honoring public school teachers and raising awareness of classroom resource needs. Running through August 29, the campaign invites listeners to nominate exceptional teachers who are going above and beyond to make an impact in their communities.

Nominations can be submitted at donorschoose.org/iHeartRadio, and all entries will be verified to confirm that nominated educators work in U.S. public schools.

Throughout August, selected teachers will be spotlighted on iHeartRadio stations across the country. In September, five of those nominated will be randomly chosen to receive $5,000 in DonorsChoose gift cards to fund classroom supplies.

"Every year, millions of educators spend their own money to fill gaps in classroom resources to ensure that their students have the tools they need to succeed," said Jon Zellner, President of Programming Operations and Digital Music at iHeartMedia. "Many go even further, offering emotional support to students facing challenges both inside and outside the classroom."

In addition to the nomination campaign, iHeartMedia has committed $500,000 in public service announcements to promote DonorsChoose's mission. These PSAs will air on stations nationwide, encouraging listeners to support classroom needs in their local communities by contributing via DonorsChoose.

Alix Guerrier, CEO of DonorsChoose, emphasized the importance of the initiative as educators prepare for the new school year. "iHeartRadio's Thank a Teacher is making sure that educators feel appreciated for going the extra mile, especially as they work hard to get students what they need to kick off a new school year," he said.

PodcastOne Announces Return of Chrisley Confessions 2.0

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 15, 2025 | 10:44am CT

PodcastOne

PodcastOne has announced the relaunch of Chrisley Confessions, the podcast hosted by reality TV personalities Todd and Julie Chrisley. The revamped series, entitled Chrisley Confessions 2.0, premieres July 16, and will be available in both audio and video formats through PodcastOne.

Originally launched in 2018, Chrisley Confessions quickly built a loyal following with its blend of humor, personal reflection, and candid conversations. The Chrisleys rose to national fame with their reality series Chrisley Knows Best, and the podcast offered fans a more personal, unfiltered look into their lives.

The new version of the show marks the couple's return to the spotlight following their high-profile legal issues and subsequent Presidential pardon. The relaunch promises to explore themes of faith, family, personal growth, and starting over.

"This next chapter is rooted in grace, growth, and truth," said Todd Chrisley in a statement. "Whether you've supported us, criticized us, or simply watched from afar, we're inviting you to listen with an open heart. This is our story, told in our own words."

PodcastOne President Kit Gray said the company is "excited to welcome Todd and Julie back" and praised the podcast for its "authenticity, vulnerability, and signature Chrisley humor."

Chrisley Confessions 2.0 will include guest interviews, listener Q&A sessions, and the couple's perspectives on life, love, and lessons learned. It joins a wide lineup of PodcastOne programming, which includes The Jordan Harbinger Show, The Adam Carolla Show, Court Junkie, and The Prosecutors, among others.

New episodes will be available on PodcastOne, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and other major podcast platforms.

Nick Cannon Launches Late-Night Advice Series

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 15, 2025 | 6:45pm CT

Nick Cannon @ Night

Wondery has announced the debut of Nick Cannon @ Night, a new weekly video podcast hosted by entertainer and media personality Nick Cannon. Set to premiere July 23, the show is a modern spin on the classic late-night relationship advice format -- with Cannon responding to real listener questions about love, sex, and dating, directly from his personal DMs.

Taped in front of a live Los Angeles audience, Nick Cannon @ Night features a mix of celebrity guests, recurring expert contributors, and interactive segments aimed at blurring the line between old-school late night TV and today's social media-driven culture.

Known for his high-profile personal life and outspoken takes on fatherhood and relationships, Cannon leans into his public persona to offer candid commentary alongside seasoned experts. Regular contributors this season include Dr. Laura Berman, Dr. Viviana Coles, Dr. Mike Dow, Dr. Jamye Waxman, and Dr. Kerry-Anne Perkins -- each offering professional insight into the intimate and often unfiltered questions posed by fans.

The guest lineup also includes a mix of pop culture figures and online personalities such as Melyssa Ford, Raven-Symone, Bobbi Althoff, Hannah Stocking, Rosa Acosta, Flame Monroe, Natalie Friedman, Courtney Bee, and Sarah Fontenot.

Recurring segments include man-on-the-street interviews and Anonymous @ Night, in which Cannon and his guests tackle viewer-submitted questions anonymously. Topics range from online dating trends and the psychology of attraction to more provocative subjects like threesomes and fetishes.

The show marks Cannon's second project with Wondery, following We Playin' Spades, a podcast co-hosted with comedian Courtney Bee. Nick Cannon @ Night will be available beginning July 23 on YouTube, Wondery, and all major podcast platforms, with new episodes released weekly.

Latino USA Podcast Joins iHeartMedia's My Cultura Network

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 15, 2025 | 10:39am CT

Latino USA

Futuro Media and iHeartMedia announced today that Latino USA, the longest-running Latino-focused news and culture program in the U.S., joins iHeartMedia's My Cultura Podcast Network. Hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa, Latino USA will now be distributed as a podcast via iHeartRadio and other major platforms, while continuing its public radio distribution through PRX.

The move marks a new chapter for the Peabody Award-winning program, which has aired weekly on nearly 400 public radio stations across the U.S. and Canada since its founding in 1993. Known for its deep storytelling and investigative journalism, Latino USA aims to bring Latino voices and perspectives to a wider national audience at a time when such stories are increasingly vital.

"'Latino USA' is a cultural institution that has positively shaped the way the Latino community is perceived through high-quality journalism and relentless authenticity," said Leo Gomez, head of iHeartMedia's My Cultura. "Being able to share these stories with more listeners nationwide thanks to our new partnership matters more than ever before."

The partnership comes as My Cultura celebrates its fourth anniversary. Launched in May, 2021 in collaboration with iHeartLatino President Enrique Santos, the network now features more than 60 Latino-led podcasts. Notable titles include Chiquis and Chill, Wrestling with Freddie, Radio Ambulante, and He Said, Ella Dijo. In June, actress and producer Eva Longoria and her Hyphenate Media Group joined Wilmer Valderrama as stakeholders in the network, further reinforcing My Cultura's commitment to elevating Latino voices.

For Hinojosa, the transition to iHeart's podcast network expands the show's mission. "Our new partnership with iHeartMedia's My Cultura is proof that after three decades on the air, our show is considered essential listening for people who care about fact-based journalism, extraordinary storytelling, great conversations, and award-winning investigative reporting," she said.

In upcoming episodes, Latino USA will cover breaking news with a human-centered focus, including immigration enforcement updates, as well as stories from Latino arts and culture. Features will include a tribute to iconic telenovela villains and a spotlight on a women's soccer club in Los Angeles.

Peniley Ram­rez, executive producer of Latino USA and Co-CEO of Futuro Media, emphasized the importance of the expanded reach: "Our legendary show is entering a new era with podcast distribution through iHeart, enabling us to reach a larger audience at a time when Latino voices and stories are crucial to understanding the complexities of our country and its communities."

Despite its new distribution home in the podcast world, Latino USA remains committed to its public media roots. "We're proud to celebrate this meaningful new chapter," said Ram­rez, "remaining rooted in public media while joining a network that truly values the vital role Latinos and Latinas play in shaping U.S. society."

Hubbard Radio Seattle Appoints Nick Beyer VP/MM

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 14, 2025 | 6:06pm CT

Nick Beyer

Hubbard Radio has appointed Nick Beyer as Vice President and Market Manager of its cluster in Seattle, marking a homecoming for the longtime broadcaster whose career began over two decades ago at the same group of stations. Beyer now leads operations for a portfolio that includes KQMV-FM (MOViN 92.5), KPNW-FM (98.9 The Bull), KRWM-FM (Warm 106.9), KIXI-AM, KKNW-AM, and the Seattle office of 2060 Digital.

A Seattle native and Washington State University graduate, Beyer's broadcasting roots run deep. He began his radio career as an intern at what was then Sandusky Radio Seattle, later acquired by Hubbard. Over the years, he gained experience in promotions, sales, and on-air roles, eventually earning a place in Hubbard's inaugural NextGen Leadership program. Most recently, he held senior sales leadership roles at CRISTA Media and iHeartMedia Seattle.

"I'm incredibly honored to return to where it all began," said Beyer. "Hubbard Radio Seattle is home, and I can't wait to work with this amazing team to serve our listeners, clients, and community."

Hubbard President/Market Manager for Phoenix and Seattle Trip Reeb welcomed the move, stating, "I believe Nick is the person to elevate our Seattle cluster to the next level. I couldn't be happier he's back."

Hubbard Radio CEO Ginny Hubbard echoed the sentiment, adding, "We are thrilled to welcome Nick back into the Hubbard fold."

Beyer is also active in Seattle's advertising community and is expected to bring both local insight and strategic leadership to his new role.

Report: Majority of U.S. Voters Trust Public Media

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 14, 2025 | 10:54am CT

Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB)

As the Senate prepares to vote on the Rescissions Act of 2025 -- which would eliminate $1.1 billion in previously approved funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) -- a new national poll finds that most U.S. voters trust and value public media more than commercial media, and oppose the proposed funding cuts.

The survey, conducted online by Peak Insights between June 29 and July 1 among 1,000 likely voters, shows that 53% of respondents trust public media networks and local stations to report the news "fully, accurately and fairly," compared to just 35% who say the same about the media overall.

At the same time, 53% of voters said they oppose eliminating all federal funding for public media. Only 44% supported such a move.

"Public media is a trusted, vital part of American life, available free of charge and commercial free," said CPB President and CEO Patricia Harrison. "It delivers early learning resources to families, life-saving emergency alerts to communities, and trusted local and national programming to keep citizens connected and informed."

Among the services and programming voters said they highly value:

• 82% support public media's emergency alerts

• 66% value children's educational programming

• 66% support local programming

• 60% value national news reporting

The poll also found public media enjoys a favorable reputation with voters, especially in contrast to commercial media. Local public television and radio stations received 65% favorable ratings, PBS 61%, and NPR 54%. By contrast, 61% of voters expressed an unfavorable opinion of for-profit media.

Additional findings highlight public support for public media's mission:

• 68% agree public media serves as a lifeline for rural and underserved communities

• 66% believe it provides quality educational content for children

• 62% say it should remain free of charge

• 64% support appointing an independent ombudsman to ensure content is fair, balanced, and politically neutral

As steward of federal appropriations for public media, CPB said it remains committed to delivering unbiased, nonpartisan news and information, as well as investing in new technologies and services that enhance civic engagement and reflect local needs.

"The path to a better, more trusted public media is only possible with continued federal support," Harrison said. "Federal funding compels CPB to continually strengthen efforts to deepen trust and fulfill the mission envisioned by Congress through the content and services provided by local stations."

The Senate vote on the Rescissions Act could determine whether public media retains its federal financial support amid competing budget priorities.

Erica Osher Named NPR Vice President of AI Labs

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 14, 2025 | 6:14pm CT

Erica Osher

NPR appoints Erica Osher as its new Vice President of AI Labs, effective July 28. Osher will lead the network's artificial intelligence strategy, overseeing efforts to explore and integrate AI in ways that support NPR's public service mission.

Osher has already played a key role in shaping NPR's AI trajectory. While serving as Vice President of Sponsorship Products and NPM Creative at National Public Media (NPM), she helped launch the AI Labs initiative, co-authored NPR's AI guidelines, and developed pilot programs exploring the use of AI in journalism and operations. Since December 2024, she has served in a transitional capacity as NPR's General Manager of AI Labs.

In her new role, Osher will guide AI Labs as a business leader, tasked with developing initiatives that enhance NPR's journalistic capabilities, foster innovation, and maintain audience trust in the face of rapid technological change.

"Erica has demonstrated curiosity, leadership, and collaboration as interim GM of AI Labs -- leading pilots, seeking new partnerships, and ensuring our work drives towards innovation while upholding NPR's mission and values," said Ryan Merkley, NPR's Chief Operating Officer. "She's worked closely with member organizations, industry leaders, and NPR staff across teams and I'm thrilled she's joining our team."

"I couldn't be more excited about this opportunity," Osher said. "I'm a lifelong NPR fan, and all of my prior work at NPM has been done with the aim of supporting NPR's public service mission. We're at a transformational moment for technology and journalism, and I'm eager to explore AI solutions that reinforce our values, maintain trust among audiences, and strengthen NPR's ability to innovate."

Osher spent 14 years at NPM, where she launched and led the NPM Creative team -- an in-house agency responsible for creative and sponsorship product development across NPR's digital platforms. Her work included strategy for NPR.org, NPR apps, voice platforms, newsletters, and YouTube. She also served as executive producer on branded podcasts including Tech Unheard and The Upload, the latter of which received a PR Daily award.

Her background also includes roles in user experience design and radio production, and she holds certifications in applied business analytics, accessibility, and agile project management.

NRRC Welcomes New Natl. Radio Network & Syndication Members

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 14, 2025 | 10:59am CT

The Network Radio Research Council (NRRC)

The Network Radio Research Council (NRRC) has announced the addition of leading research professionals from several major national audio companies, including Audacy Networks, Compass Media Networks, Entravision, Key Networks-United Stations, and Reach Media. The expansion brings a broader range of perspectives to the NRRC as it works to enhance the accuracy and relevance of national radio audience measurement.

The NRRC, a coalition of network radio vendors and subscribers, is focused on improving the methods used to measure how Americans engage with radio and audio content. The expansion comes at a time when national radio reaches more Americans than traditional linear television, prompting renewed emphasis on transparent and adaptable measurement standards.

"As the ways people consume audio continue to evolve, it is critical that audience measurement adapts to accurately capture these changes," said Scott Anekstein, Vice President of Research at Cumulus Media | Westwood One and current NRRC Chair. "Expanding our roundtable of national radio leaders allows us to collectively assess and advance measurement practices with a unified voice."

Maria Barva, Senior Director of Ad Sales Research at Premiere Networks and 2024 NRRC Chair, added, "We are thrilled to welcome these esteemed media companies to the NRRC. Their expertise will enrich discussions on the future of audio measurement, ensuring that national radio and audio platforms have access to reliable, reflective data that supports industry growth."

Audacy Networks' Len Klatt emphasized the importance of broad collaboration in adapting to the rapidly evolving audio environment: "The NRRC's commitment to strengthening and diversifying audience measurement is more important than ever. By bringing together industry expertise and perspectives, we are ensuring that network radio remains at the forefront of accurate, comprehensive research."

With its expanded membership, the NRRC aims to stay ahead of media consumption trends, ensuring that measurement tools evolve alongside the growing diversity of audio listening habits.

Study Reveals How to Maximize Programmatic Audio Ads

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 14, 2025 | 9:24pm CT

Audio Creative Synergy

A new research report from MAGNA and Magnite sheds light on how brands can best deploy multiple creative audio ads in programmatic campaigns, highlighting the importance of strategic alignment to maximize engagement, recall, and purchase intent.

With U.S. digital audio advertising spend projected to reach $16 billion in 2026, the "Audio Creative Synergy" study explored the performance of different creative combinations in audio ads, particularly within podcasts and music streaming environments. The study included 2,886 participants aged 18 and older who listen to digital audio at least once a week.

Strong Synergy When Promoting the Same Product

When a branding-focused ad was paired with a sales-focused ad for the same product, the results were significantly stronger than using just one ad twice. The combination increased:

• Unaided ad recall by 17 points
• Purchase intent by 9 points
• Search intent by 10 points

Notably, sequencing mattered. Branding-first, followed by sales-focused messaging, produced greater impact than the reverse.

Multiple Creatives Work Differently When Promoting Different Products

When ads promoted different products from the same brand, the increase in recall was strong ( 39 to 45 points in aided and unaided recall), but did not significantly improve purchase intent or brand favorability among infrequent or new customers. In fact, using a single ad twice was more effective in building interest among consumers unfamiliar with the brand.

Mixing Product and Sponsored Content Ads May Backfire

Pairing a product ad with a sponsorship-focused ad (such as promoting branded content) caused mixed results. While each ad type on its own could lift brand favorability and purchase consideration by up to 16 points, combining them too closely in a single campaign diluted effectiveness. The report advises against mixing different campaign objectives in tight proximity.

Strategic Recommendations

• Capitalize on Creative Synergy: Use complementary creatives to tell a fuller story, especially when promoting the same product.

• Lead with Branding: Begin campaigns with brand-building messages to prime listeners before introducing promotional content.

• Avoid Mixing Objectives: Keep product ads and sponsorship/branded content ads in separate campaign flows to avoid message confusion.

The study provides critical insight for marketers navigating the evolving digital audio landscape and reinforces the need for strategic creative planning to drive ROI in audio ad campaigns.

Quu Visual Radio Ads Boost Purchase Intent by 89%

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 14, 2025 | 2:15pm CT

Cumulus Media and Westwood One

New research finds that in-dash visuals synced with AM/FM radio ads can dramatically increase purchase intent and brand engagement, offering a new frontier for audio advertising. In this week's Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group blog, studies from Quantilope and System1/JCDecaux examine the impact of visual AM/FM radio ads and offer best practices to enhance campaign effect.

In-dash visual ads -- powered by Quu and displayed on vehicle infotainment screens -- can boost consumer purchase intent by 89% when paired with AM/FM radio ads. The study, which tested campaigns from six national brands across 75 U.S. markets, found that listeners exposed to these synchronized visuals showed significantly higher awareness, consideration, and intent to purchase compared to those who only heard the audio.

The research reflects growing industry efforts to adapt to the blurred lines between audio and visual media, where traditional radio now competes in a landscape shaped by podcasts with video, audio streaming apps, and video-first digital platforms.

Importantly, 83% of drivers report paying attention to their vehicle's infotainment screen while listening to the radio -- an untapped opportunity for advertisers to reinforce their messages with visual cues.

Complementing these findings, a separate global study by System1 and outdoor advertising giant JCDecaux offers a roadmap for making visual creative more effective. Though designed for out-of-home advertising like billboards, the best practices can be directly applied to visual radio campaigns.

Key recommendations include:

• Brand fast: Place logos at the top of the visual frame for 4X greater brand recognition.

• Keep it short: Fewer words increase recall and engagement.

• Stay consistent: Use familiar logos, slogans, and colors to enhance recognition across platforms.

• Spark emotion: Ads that evoke happiness, humor, or surprise generate stronger brand associations and drive measurable business results.

• Design for two-second impact: Most viewers give visual ads just two seconds of attention -- so early branding and simplicity are key.

System1's data also found that 50% of global out-of-home ads fail to generate brand recognition, often due to cluttered or emotionless creative. The takeaway for radio advertisers is clear: audio-visual integration must be both strategic and emotionally engaging to be effective.

Experts say embracing these principles doesn't just improve creative -- it drives business. "The difference between average and excellent creative execution isn't just awards," the System1/JCDecaux study concludes. "It's demonstrable business growth."

Read the entire blog post here.

Rising Through the Ranks 2025 Scholarship Recipients Revealed

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 14, 2025 | 10:49am CT

Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB)

The Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB) and Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. (MIW) have revealed the 26 scholarship recipients selected for this year's Rising Through the Ranks program. Designed to foster the next generation of female leadership in the radio industry, the annual initiative combines professional development with mentorship and networking opportunities.

The 2025 program will follow a hybrid format, beginning with a virtual session on August 12 and culminating in an in-person workshop August 19-21 in Nashville, Tennessee.

A lineup of prominent media and industry leaders will present at this year's event, including:

• Rob Babin, President, Cox Media Group (CMG) Radio

• Kristin Cantrell, Owner/Operator, Seven Mountains Media

• Joe D'Angelo, SVP of Broadcast Radio and Digital Audio, Xperi

• Kelli Turner, President & CEO, Audacy

• Sheila Kirby, President, MIW

• Trisha Yearwood, award-winning artist

And many others from organizations including RAB, Salem Media Group, and the Mississippi Association of Broadcasters

"This program continues to be a cornerstone in helping advance the careers of women in radio," said Sheila Kirby, president of MIW. "This year's class represents a diverse and impressive group of professionals who are poised to make a lasting impact on our industry."

2025 Rising Through the Ranks Scholarship Recipients:

• Mallory Bouslog - Marketron Broadcast Solutions, New Orleans, LA

• Jennifer Butman - Community Broadcast Partners, Abilene, TX

• Rebecca Carroll - Rockey City Broadcasting, Huntsville, AL

• Kadie Daye - Adams Radio Group, Valparaiso, IN

• Bridget England - WFTK 96.5/Cumulus Media, Cincinnati, OH

• Nicole Eubank - WSM, Nashville, TN

• Margie Goehring - Ottumwa Radio Group, Ottumwa, IA

• Amanda Long - Broadcast House Media/NRG Media, Lincoln, NE

• Meredith McDermott - Connoisseur Media, Farmingdale, NY

• Lauren Merrill-Stakelon - Audacy, San Francisco, CA

• Jess Palmer - iHeartMedia, Cleveland, OH

• Wanda "Wanda P" Patterson - CMG Hot 106.5 FM, Jacksonville, FL

• Cassie Reimold - Salem Media Group, Tampa, FL

• Judy Remy - Salem Media Group, Sacramento, CA

• Laura Roberts - Illini Media Group, Champaign, IL

• Lori Roberts - Seven Mountains Media, Parkersburg, WV

• Jillian Sagat - Cox Media Group, Jacksonville, FL

• Kate Savage - Audacy, Farmington, NY

• Kayla Schneider - Hubbard Radio, Alexandria, MN

• Lauren Smith - Cox Media Group, Watkinsville, GA

• Kari Stoddard - Midwest Communications, Nashville, TN

• Slone Terranella - Beasley Media Group, Las Vegas, NV

• Susan Terwilleger - Saga Communications, Charlottesville, VA

• Michelle Truong - Audacy, Brooklyn, NY

• Whitney Zarder - North Central Florida Media, Saga Communications, Ocala, FL

• Sheena Ziegler - Hubbard Broadcasting, Brainerd, MN

Now in its 15th year, Rising Through the Ranks continues to provide scholarship-based access to women in radio seeking to enhance their leadership potential and further their careers within the broadcasting industry.

CPR Approves FY 2026 Budget, Welcomes Three New Members

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 14, 2025 | 11:05am CT

Colorado Public Radio (CPR)

During its annual meeting, Colorado Public Radio's board of directors approved its budget and work plan for the new fiscal year beginning July 1, while also announcing the addition of three new members to its governing board: Carrie Okizaki, Arnold Salazar, and Sruta Vootukuru. The three incoming members bring varied backgrounds spanning energy policy, mental health, and digital technology.

"I'm thrilled to welcome Carrie Okizaki, Arnold Salazar, and Sruta Vootukuro to the CPR board," said Board Chair Lori Bergen, founding dean of the College of Communication, Media, Design and Information at the University of Colorado Boulder. "With expertise that ranges from construction project oversight to technology to health care, combined with their diverse perspectives and shared passion for our mission, these new members will bring new energy and insights to the CPR board as we embark on this next chapter together."

Okizaki is President and co-founder of Modus Strategic Solutions, working on major energy initiatives. A second-generation Coloradan, her dedication to public service is rooted in her family's history, including their incarceration at the Amache internment camp during World War II. Her prior nonprofit service includes board work with Work Options, which supports individuals facing poverty or reentry after incarceration.

Salazar, whose family has resided in Colorado's San Luis Valley since the mid-1800s, is a longtime advocate for community mental health. His past roles include leading the San Luis Valley Community Mental Health Center and founding SyCare LLC and Colorado Health Partnerships. He now operates his family business, The Barn at La Manzanilla.

Vootukuru is currently Chief Digital, Content and Carrier Officer for Liberty Latin America. Her leadership background includes roles at SiriusXM, Sling TV and Dish Network, with expertise across telecom, fintech, and media. She was honored with a Technology Emmy in 2018 and is known for spearheading innovative, scalable digital solutions.

Also during the meeting, the board recognized outgoing members Ned Harding, Michelle Sobel, and Brandy Schultz for completing their terms. Amy Blair and Dr. Carlos Hipolito-Delgado were elected to a second term.

For Fiscal Year 2026, CPR's board leadership includes Lori Bergen as chair, Rishi Hingoraney as vice-chair, Ricardo Baca as treasurer, and Deidre Johnson as secretary.

BFOA to Hold Next Media Mixer During MSBC in Austin

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 14, 2025 | 5:54pm CT

Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA)

The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) will hold its next Media Mixer during the upcoming Morning Show Boot Camp (MSBC), marking the first time the charitable event is included in the annual radio industry gathering. The Media Mixer is set for Thursday, August 7, from 5:30-7:30pm CT in the Waterloo Foyer of the Austin Marriott Downtown.

The Media Mixer offers an opportunity for radio professionals -- including on-air talent, executives, producers, and program directors -- to connect and network in a casual setting. Sponsored by Benztown, the event is free to attend for all registered MSBC participants, though advance registration is required.

"We're looking forward to our first Media Mixer at Morning Show Boot Camp and thank Don Anthony for supporting our charitable mission of helping broadcasters in acute need," said Tim McCarthy, President of the Broadcasters Foundation. "With Don's help, we will reach more broadcasters, increase awareness, and generate more contributions."

Don Anthony, founder and host of MSBC, emphasized the importance of the Foundation's mission. "The Broadcasters Foundation is the only charity devoted exclusively to helping broadcasters, and it's important that we in the industry support the work they do," he said. "We cannot allow our colleagues to suffer devastating illnesses alone."

The Broadcasters Foundation provides financial aid to broadcast professionals facing severe hardship due to illness, accident, or natural disaster. Since launching its Media Mixers in 2023, the organization has held events in New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago, helping expand its reach -- especially among younger members of the industry -- and increase donations.

"It's critical that everyone in broadcasting know about the Foundation in case they or someone they know needs and qualifies for assistance," McCarthy added.