Advertisement
|
Top Radio News
Ian Rambo Named OM for Connoisseur Fredericksburg
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 29, 2026 | 10:29am CT |
|
 |
Connoisseur Media has appointed veteran programmer Ian Rambo as Operations Manager for its Fredericksburg, VA, cluster. Rambo joins the company after more than a decade in Midwest broadcasting. Most recently, he served as Operations Manager for Riverfront Broadcasting in Rapid City, SD.
Prior to Riverfront Broadcasting, Rambo worked for Haugo Broadcasting, advancing to Operations Manager while directing programming for four stations. He has also held programming, promotions and on-air positions with Cumulus Media in Topeka, KS, and Great Plains Media in Lawrence, KS.
In his new role, Rambo will oversee programming for WFLS-FM, WVBX-FM, WWUZ-FM and WNTX-AM. He will also host mornings on WFLS, expanding the station's focus on live and local programming.
"I'm excited to join Connoisseur Media Fredericksburg and work with such a talented and passionate team," Rambo said. "Thank you to Keith Dakin, Brian Foster, and Debbie Patten for putting their trust and confidence in me. I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity and look forward to building meaningful relationships with listeners throughout Fredericksburg and the surrounding communities."
TM Studios Brings TRIL Imaging Library to U.S.
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 29, 2026 | 10:35am CT |
|
 |
TM Studios has partnered with Capital Of Media to bring TRIL -- The Radio Imaging Library to broadcasters across the U.S., offering producers a growing collection of production elements designed to speed workflow while supporting creative station imaging.
Already in use by major European broadcasters including 538, NRJ and Virgin Radio, TRIL provides instant access to an expanding library of sweeper shells, music beds, branded intros, show openers, transitions and other production elements. New content is added daily, allowing producers and programmers to create updated station imaging in minutes.
Developed in collaboration with TM Studios, the platform combines production techniques and creative concepts from both Europe and the U.S. with contributions from radio imaging talent worldwide. TRIL also includes a U.S.-focused production calendar featuring key holidays, playlists and workflow tools.
"We're delighted to be partnering with TM Studios to make TRIL available to broadcasters across the USA," said Anthony Timmers, Founder of Capital Of Media. "The Radio Imaging Library combines high-quality audio created by the very best producers around the world with a super-fast online platform that makes finding great content much easier. We understand that radio producers are under more pressure than ever to create great-sounding stations with limited time and resources. TRIL was built to make that easier."
TM Studios Chief Operations Officer Dave Bethell said the platform is designed to enhance, not replace, the creative process.
"TRIL doesn't replace creativity, it unlocks it," Bethell said. "If you're looking to refresh your station sound, or simply looking for production elements, idea starters or a creative collaborator, TRIL is packed with ideas, tools and shells that can transform your workflow. Producers are going to love it."
TRIL is available in four formats, including CHR/Hot AC, Modern AC, Country and Classic Hits.
Allison Demers Joins WIHS as News Director
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 29, 2026 | 2:03pm CT |
|
 |
Religious WIHS-FM in Middletown, CT has named veteran Connecticut broadcaster Allison Demers as its new Faith & Ministry News Director and weekday afternoon host. Demers will make her on-air debut Monday, August 3, hosting afternoons from 2-6pm.
A Waterbury native with three decades of radio and television experience, Demers began her broadcasting career in 1996 with MetroNetworks in Hartford, serving in several news and traffic reporting roles. She later became morning show co-host and newscaster on WKCI-FM's The Glenn Beck Show with Vinnie Penn before joining WRCH-FM as a morning personality, News Director and Public Affairs Director.
Her career also includes roles at WTIC-AM, where she worked as a fill-in newscaster and traffic reporter, and WATR-AM, where she served as morning co-host and News Director. In 2017, she joined the Archdiocese of Hartford's Office of Radio and Television as a television co-host and reporter for Crossroads Magazine while also serving as an on-air announcer for WJMJ-FM.
Most recently, Demers worked as a lifestyle reporter for WTNH-TV's CT Buzz, co-hosted Fuch's Financial, and held multiple roles at iHeartMedia's WHCN "The River," including on-air host, Public Service Director, Director of Programming and host of Community Access. She was laid off by iHeartMedia in April as part of company budget reductions.
Connecticut Radio Fellowship Board President Drew Crandall said Demers' broadcasting background and Christian faith make her an ideal addition to the station. "I've known Allison for decades and highly respect her as a broadcasting professional and admire her as a long-time, committed Christian," Crandall said. "I believe that she will be an outstanding addition to the WIHS staff."
Demers added, "I love the Lord and people, so to me, this isn't work, it's ministry," Demers said. "I'm grateful for and enthused about this opportunity to minister in my home state through WIHS."
Advertisement
|
2026 NAB Marconi Radio Award Finalists Announced
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 28, 2026 | 2:05pm CT |
|
 |
The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has announced the finalists for the 2026 NAB Marconi Radio Awards during a livestreamed presentation hosted by Toby Knapp and Chilli Amar, co-hosts of "Toby + Chilli in the Morning" on 97.1 WASH-FM in Washington, DC.
The winners of the 2026 NAB Marconi Radio Awards will be announced during a special dinner program on Tuesday, October 20, at the Edison Ballroom in New York City, the evening before NAB Show New York 2026 begins.
This year's NAB Marconi Radio Award finalists:
Legendary Station of the Year
- KFI-AM, Los Angeles, CA
- WCBS-FM, New York, NY
- WIVK-FM, Knoxville, TN
- WJR-AM, Detroit, MI
- WLW-AM, Cincinnati, OH
- Joey Cummings, South Seas Broadcasting, Pago Pago, AS
- Tery Garras, KXLY-FM, Spokane, WA
- Julie Koehn, WLEN-FM, Adrian, MI
- Mitch Rosen, WSCR-AM, Chicago, IL
- David Yadgaroff, Audacy, Philadelphia, PA
- Anna & Raven, WEZN-FM, Cumulus, Metro Fairfield, CT
- El Free Guey Show, TelevisaUnivision, Houston, TX
- Ryan Fox, Westwood One, Dallas, TX
- Ryan Seacrest, Premiere Radio Networks, Inc., Los Angeles, CA
- The Bob & Sheri Show, WKQC-FM, Beasley, Charlotte, NC
- The Andie Summers Show, WXTU-FM, Philadelphia, PA
- Ellen K, KOST-FM, Los Angeles, CA
- Patty Jackson, WDAS-FM, Philadelphia, PA
- Karson and Kennedy, WBMX-FM, Boston, MA
- Riggs, Katelyn & Erica, KKBQ-FM, Houston, TX
- Paul Castronovo, WBGG-FM, Miami, FL
- Rebecca Cressman, KSFI-FM, Salt Lake City, UT
- Karen Dalessandro, KSLX-FM, Phoenix, AZ
- Heather & Matty, WWLI-FM, Providence, RI
- Justin, Scott and Spiegel, WIYY-FM, Baltimore, MD
- The Blake Show with Kelly and Todd, WMGX-FM, Portland, ME
- Buzz Jackson, KIIM-FM, Tucson, AZ
- Joe & Tina Mornings, WZSR-FM, Crystal Lake, IL
- Ron Olson and Karen Perrin, WRVR-FM, Memphis, TN
- Ben Davis & Kelly K, WDJX-FM, Louisville, KY
- The Cosmo & Kat Show, KTXY-FM, Columbia, MO
- Chris Lawrence, WCHS-AM, Charleston, WV
- Ian Rambo, KQRQ-FM, Rapid City, SD
- The Ryan Smetzer Show, WIKZ-FM, Hagerstown, MD
- Stafford and Frigo, KDXY-FM, Jonesboro, AR
- WBEB-FM, Philadelphia, PA
- WBMX-FM, Boston, MA
- WCBS-FM, New York, NY
- WSCR-AM, Chicago, IL
- WTMX-FM, Chicago, IL
- KTMY-FM, Saint Paul, MN
- WALK-FM, Long Island, NY
- WHQG-FM, Milwaukee, WI
- WWRM-FM, Tampa, FL
- WYXB-FM, Indianapolis, IN
- WBTJ-FM, Richmond, VA
- WHBC-AM, Canton, OH
- WMFS-FM, Memphis, TN
- WPOR-FM, Portland, ME
- WYCT-FM, Pensacola, FL
- KBHP-FM, Bemidji, MN
- KMMX-FM, Lubbock, TX
- KNDE-FM, College Station, TX
- WIOG-FM, Saginaw, MI
- WYOT-FM, Rochelle, IL
- KBIG-FM, Los Angeles, CA
- KRWM-FM, Seattle, WA
- KSTP-FM, Minneapolis-Saint Paul, MN
- KUIC-FM, San Francisco, CA
- WKJY-FM, Long Island, NY
- "Flying Through Fog: A Podcast for PANS/PANDAS Caregivers," WTRC-FM, South Bend, IN
- "Purple Daily," KSTP-AM, Saint Paul, MN
- "Supporting Sobriety," WIBC-FM, Indianapolis, IN
- "The Install with Greg Cosell," WGFX-FM, Nashville, TN
- "Uinta Triangle," KSL-FM, Salt Lake City, UT
- KNDE-FM, College Station, TX
- KQMV-FM, Seattle, WA
- KRBE-FM, Houston, TX
- KTXY-FM, Columbia, MO
- WBLI-FM, Long Island, NY
- KONO-FM, San Antonio, TX
- KOOL-FM, Phoenix, AZ
- WCBS-FM, New York, NY
- WGTZ-FM, Dayton, OH
- WSRV-FM, Atlanta, GA
- WHPC-FM, Nassau Community College, Garden City, NY
- WMSC-FM, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ
- WOLF Radio, University of West Georgia, Carrollton, GA
- WRRC-FM, Rider University, Lawrenceville, NJ
- WSOU-FM, Seton Hall University, South Orange, NJ
- KCLR-FM, Columbia, MO
- KFGE-FM, Lincoln, NE
- KIKV-FM, Alexandria, MN
- KKBQ-FM, Houston, TX
- WUSY-FM, Chattanooga, TN
- KFI-AM, Los Angeles, CA
- KXL-FM, Portland, OR
- WHPT-FM, Tampa, FL
- WLW-AM, Cincinnati, OH
- WSB-AM, Atlanta, GA
- WFMV-AM, Columbia, SC
- WGTS-FM, Washington, DC
- WJOU-FM, Huntsville, AL
- WLVU-FM, Nashville, TN
- WMCA-AM, New York, NY
- WIIL-FM, Chicago, IL
- WIYY-FM, Baltimore, MD
- WNCX-FM, Cleveland, OH
- WPLR-FM, New Haven, CT
- WXTB-FM, Tampa, FL
- KOVE-FM, Houston, TX
- WAMR-FM, Miami, FL
- WLZL-FM, Washington, DC
- WZTU-FM, Miami, FL
- KTCK-FM, Dallas, TX
- WEEI-FM, Boston, MA
- WGFX-FM, Nashville, TN
- WIP-FM, Philadelphia, PA
- WJOX-FM, Birmingham, AL
- WCFB-FM, Orlando, FL
- WDAS-FM, Philadelphia, PA
- WDZZ-FM, Flint, MI
- WEDR-FM, Miami, FL
- WHQT-FM, Miami, FL
Known as "radio's biggest night," the annual event brings together broadcasters from across the country to celebrate excellence in radio and recognize the year's outstanding stations, personalities, podcasts and industry leaders. Tickets, tables and sponsorship opportunities are now available.
K-LOVE Names Andrew Lambeth as Marketing Chief
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 28, 2026 | 11:07am CT |
|
 |
K-LOVE Inc., parent company of the K-LOVE and Air1 Christian radio networks, has named Andrew Lambeth as its new Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, effective September 1. Lambeth will join the ministry's Leadership Team and oversee its communications, creative and marketing departments. He joins K-LOVE from Centricity Music, where he most recently served as Co-General Manager and Senior Vice President of Marketing.
During more than a decade at Centricity, Lambeth helped guide marketing campaigns for artists including Lauren Daigle, Katy Nichole and Jordan Feliz, contributing to multiple Billboard No. 1 hits as well as gold and platinum-certified releases.
"I've spent my entire career inside Christian music because I believe these songs and artists do something special," Lambeth said. "K-LOVE is where many of these songs and stories meet the most people, and I'm honored to join K-LOVE's excellent team in working to inspire people to move closer to Jesus."
K-LOVE CEO Tom Stultz said Lambeth's industry experience and strategic vision make him well suited for the role. "Andrew is an industry leader who brings a brilliant strategic focus to this Ministry," Stultz said. "His inside knowledge of the Christian music industry along with his many established contacts position him to make meaningful contributions to this Ministry quickly and in ways that are sustainable for years to come."
Audacy: Trusted Podcast Hosts Drive Holiday Sales
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 28, 2026 | 4:51pm CT |
|
 |
As brands prepare for the 2026 holiday shopping season, a new Audacy Insights report argues that trusted podcast hosts have become one of the most influential factors in driving consumer purchase decisions, particularly as shoppers begin researching gifts earlier and rely more heavily on recommendations.
According to the report, today's consumers are taking a more deliberate approach to holiday shopping, comparing retailers, searching for the best prices and increasingly using artificial intelligence to research products and generate gift ideas. Audacy says that longer consideration periods make trusted recommendations more valuable when shoppers are ready to make a purchase.
The company points to podcast creators as uniquely positioned to influence buying decisions because of the strong relationships they build with their audiences. Rather than delivering traditional advertisements, podcast hosts often integrate sponsored products into gift guides, wish lists and personal recommendations that feel authentic to listeners.
Audacy cites research showing that 64% of heavy podcast listeners follow podcast host recommendations for products and services while shopping. The report also notes that 27% of podcast listeners say they engage more with their favorite shows during the holiday season, giving advertisers continued access to audiences throughout the busiest shopping weeks.
The report also highlights the role of emotion in holiday marketing, noting that familiar voices and storytelling can create stronger consumer connections than conventional display advertising. Audacy says emotionally driven campaigns can improve brand perception and cites research indicating that emotional advertising can generate an 8.2% increase in consumer action.
The report concludes that successful holiday campaigns are built well before the shopping season begins through long-term partnerships with podcast hosts, allowing brands to establish authentic connections before consumers reach the final stages of their purchasing decisions.
Read the Audacy Insights post here.
Pattison Media Adopts Quu Visual Radio Platform
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 28, 2026 | 5:00pm CT |
|
 |
Pattison Media has partnered with Quu Inc. to bring visual radio technology to 39 of its stations, enabling programming and advertising content to appear on compatible vehicle dashboards and online audio streams.
The agreement expands Pattison Media's digital capabilities by adding Quu's patented visual messaging platform, which displays song information, station branding, promotions and advertiser messages alongside the audio experience. The company said the technology creates new advertising inventory while enhancing listener engagement both in connected vehicles and through streaming platforms.
"We're committed to delivering audio and digital solutions that create greater value for our audiences and clients," said Rod Schween, President of Pattison Media. "Quu's visual messaging strengthens our radio offering while complementing the other innovation initiatives underway across our business, like Validate and Resonate. This agreement with Quu is another way Pattison Media is investing in the future of radio."
Quu CEO Steve Newberry said the partnership reflects the growing importance of visual engagement as radio listening expands beyond traditional receivers.
"Radio is no longer just an audio experience. As more listening happens in connected vehicles and through digital streams, broadcasters have new opportunities to engage audiences visually," Newberry said. "We're proud to partner with Pattison Media and put every screen to work for its stations."
Pattison Media is one of Canada's largest privately owned Western-based radio and television broadcasters.
Jack Abernethy to Chair BFOA Golf Tournament
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 28, 2026 | 4:55pm CT |
|
 |
Jack Abernethy, Chief Executive Officer of FOX Television Stations, has been named Chair of the Broadcasters Foundation of America's 2026 Celebrity Golf Tournament, scheduled for Monday, September 14, at Siwanoy Country Club in Bronxville, NY.
The annual tournament is the Foundation's second-largest fundraiser, bringing together leaders from broadcasting, entertainment and sports to raise money for the BFOA's mission of providing financial assistance to radio and television professionals experiencing acute hardship due to serious illness or natural disasters.
"The BFOA Celebrity Golf Tournament is one of the industry's signature events," Abernethy said. "It offers a unique opportunity to play one of the region's premier courses while spending the day with colleagues, industry leaders, and celebrities, all in support of a charity that provides a vital lifeline to our fellow broadcasters when they need it most."
Tournament proceeds will directly support the Foundation's charitable programs, which provide aid to broadcasters facing unexpected financial crises.
"For twenty-eight years, the BFOA Celebrity Golf Tournament has brought our industry together for a day of camaraderie, competition, and compassion," said BFOA President Tim McCarthy. "We're grateful to have Jack's leadership as Chair this year. His commitment to our mission will help make this another outstanding event while raising critical funds to assist broadcasters facing extraordinary challenges."
Advertisement
|
Edison: Radio Dominates Ad-Supported Audio Reach
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 27, 2026 | 2:43pm CT |
|
 |
A new analysis of Edison Research's Q2 2026 "Share of Ear" study concludes that AM/FM radio continues to dominate ad-supported audio listening, while challenging common perceptions about Spotify's advertising reach and audience demographics.
The findings, highlighted in a new Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group blog by Chief Insights Officer Pierre Bouvard, show that 78% of all time spent with Spotify occurs on its ad-free subscription tier, leaving only 22% of listening available to advertisers.
According to the report, marketers and media agencies significantly overestimate Spotify's advertising reach. While many believe Spotify commands a 25% share of the audio audience, Edison found its ad-supported service accounts for just a 6% share of ad-supported audio, compared with AM/FM radio's 62%.
The study also found that Spotify's ad-supported audience differs sharply from its subscription audience. Ad-supported users are more likely to have household incomes below $50,000, less likely to work full-time and less likely to have completed at least four years of college. By contrast, Spotify's ad-free subscribers tend to be more affluent and better educated.
The report argues that these differences can lead advertisers to misjudge the platform's audience. An Advertiser Perceptions survey cited in the analysis found agencies and marketers perceive Spotify and Pandora together to hold a 41% share of audio listening, while estimating AM/FM radio at just 26%. Edison data, however, places AM/FM radio's actual ad-supported audio share at 62%.
The research also emphasizes radio's role in campaign reach. Digital audio platforms-including Spotify, Pandora and podcasts-reach 32% of Americans on a typical day. Adding AM/FM radio increases that reach to 74%, according to the study. v In the car, AM/FM radio remains the dominant ad-supported audio platform with an 82% share overall and a 75% share among adults ages 18-34.
While radio continues to lead, the study found podcast listening is growing. After holding steady at a 19% share of ad-supported audio for three years, podcasts increased to a 22% share among adults 18 and older in the second quarter of 2026.
The quarterly "Share of Ear" study, now in its 11th year, surveys approximately 4,000 Americans annually to measure daily audio consumption across platforms.
Read the entire blog post here.
Seven Mountains Debuts 98 Jamz in Bowling Green
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 27, 2026 | 11:01am CT |
|
 |
Seven Mountains Media has launched a new Classic Hip-Hop and R&B outlet in Bowling Green, KY, flipping its former Point Rock format to 98 Jamz, branded as "Straight Throwbacks." Airing on 98.1, 98.3 and 102.7 FM, the new station features Hip-Hop, R&B and Rap hits spanning the past three decades.
The lineup is anchored by Bowling Green native Shawn "Big Hamp" Hampton, who hosts weekdays from 10am-3pm. The new format also features Compass Media Networks' DeDe in the Morning, The Baka Boys in afternoon drive, and R-Dub's Weekday Slow Jamz nightly from 10pm-midnight. Sunday Night Slow Jams also moves to 98 Jamz from sister station WUHU 107.
While the Point rock brand has been retired, Seven Mountains Media says several listener-friendly programming elements will remain. The station will continue its "2-Minute Promise," limiting commercial breaks to no more than two minutes outside syndicated programming, while the former Commercial-Free Music Hour shifts to noon as the new "60 Minute Flex."
The company acknowledged longtime Point listeners may be disappointed by the change but noted that sister 105.3 The Goat will continue serving rock fans, including carrying The Local Show on Thursday evenings along with personalities Dave & Mahoney, Andy Morgan and Axe.
Focus on the Family Selects ARC Software
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 27, 2026 | 2:46pm CT |
|
 |
ARC Software announced that Focus on the Family has selected its affiliate relationship management platform to support affiliate research and ongoing station maintenance across the organization's broadcast network.
The implementation will allow Focus on the Family to centralize affiliate research, maintain station and contact information, streamline contract workflows and strengthen long-term relationships with its affiliate stations. ARC Software said its platform provides real-time data and connected tools that give users a single, up-to-date view of affiliate activity.
"ARC has been an amazing tool to work with," said Joel M., Director of Broadcast and Affiliate Operations at Focus on the Family. "There are so many components that would need to be built into a CRM for it to equal the capability of ARC. From affiliate coverage maps to Nielsen integration, the tool has been powerful and allowed us to wisely assess our media spend."
Jason Bailey, Founder and CEO of ARC Software, said the company is pleased to add Focus on the Family to its client roster.
"We are honored to welcome Focus on the Family to ARC Software," Bailey said. "ARC brings affiliate research, CRM, contract automation and a nationwide station database together in one platform. We look forward to giving their team the real-time affiliate intelligence and connected workflows they need to strengthen relationships, maintain accurate information and operate efficiently."
ARC Software's platform combines affiliate research, customer relationship management, agreement management, digital signatures and relationship maintenance into a single system designed to reduce manual processes while improving visibility and accountability across affiliate operations.
Howard Stern Fans Threaten SiriusXM Boycott
| RADIO ONLINE | Sunday, July 26, 2026 | 3:55pm CT |
|
 |
Howard Stern is facing growing backlash from longtime listeners after reports that The Howard Stern Show will reduce its live schedule to one new three-hour episode per week this fall, prompting some fans to say they are canceling their SiriusXM subscriptions.
According to media reports, including The Sun, the new format will debut after the show's annual summer hiatus, replacing its current schedule of multiple live broadcasts each week with a single weekly program supplemented by archived content.
The programming changes reportedly coincide with a significant downsizing of the show's staff. Reports indicate that about a dozen employees were laid off as part of the restructuring, with several longtime contributors confirming their departures on social media.
Reaction from fans has been swift, with many taking to X and Reddit to criticize the reduced schedule and question the value of maintaining a SiriusXM subscription for one live show each week. While some listeners said they had already canceled subscriptions they had held for years, neither Howard Stern nor SiriusXM has released any data indicating how many subscribers, if any, have actually canceled in response to the changes.
Stern joined Sirius Satellite Radio in 2006 under a landmark contract after years in terrestrial radio. Over time, his live schedule gradually decreased from five weekly broadcasts during his terrestrial radio years to four and then three shows per week on SiriusXM.
The reported changes come less than a year after Stern signed a three-year contract extension with SiriusXM that keeps him on the platform through 2028. At the time, Stern said the new agreement would allow him to continue broadcasting while giving him "more free time."
Neither SiriusXM nor Stern has publicly detailed the reported new programming format or commented on the cancellation threats circulating on social media.
Advertisement
|
Surfer Network Names Kellogg SVP of Strategy
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 27, 2026 | 11:03am CT |
|
 |
Surfer Network has appointed digital audio executive Matt Kellogg as Senior Vice President of North American Sales Strategy, bolstering its leadership team as the company expands its streaming, podcasting and audio advertising business.
In the newly created role, Kellogg will oversee strategic sales initiatives across North America, with responsibility for driving revenue growth, expanding partnerships and strengthening Surfer Network's technology and monetization platform for broadcasters, podcasters, publishers and advertisers.
Kellogg joins the company from SoundStack, where he served as Vice President of Sales & Business Development. He brings more than 20 years of experience in streaming audio, podcasting, advertising technology and enterprise business development.
"Surfer Network has established itself as a leader in streaming, podcasting, and monetization, serving broadcasters, publishers, advertisers, and media partners across North America," said Justin Diller, Chief Operating Officer of Surfer Network. "As we continue to innovate, expand our capabilities, and grow our premium advertising marketplace, Matt's proven ability to build strategic partnerships and scale commercial organizations makes him the ideal leader to help drive our next phase of growth."
Throughout his career, Kellogg has worked with major broadcasters and media organizations, specializing in podcast content management systems, streaming content delivery infrastructure and advertising technology.
"Surfer Network has built an extraordinary business and I'm excited to join the company at such a pivotal moment," Kellogg said. "The team has created a powerful combination of streaming, podcasting, monetization, and AI-driven solutions that are solving real challenges across the digital ecosystem. I look forward to helping accelerate the company's growth, deepen partner relationships, and expand the impact of the platform across North America."
Texas Radio Hall Names 2026 Induction Nominees
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, July 24, 2026 | 8:00am CT |
|
 |
The Texas Radio Hall of Fame (TRHOF) has announced the 50 nominees for its 2026 induction class, with voting now open to eligible Hall of Fame members through August 10. The final ballot was selected from more than 160 broadcast professionals with ties to Texas radio who were nominated for consideration. Voting members will choose 20 inductees, who will be honored during the TRHOF Annual Induction Ceremony on November 7 at the Texas Broadcast Museum in Kilgore, TX.
TRHOF Executive Director Doug Harris said this year's nomination process was especially strong, driven in part by the addition of two newer recognition categories.
"Our 'Small Markets, Big Voices' outreach clearly hit home with those who fit that description as well as their fans," said Harris, a 2011 Hall of Fame inductee. "For many of these broadcasters, this is their first exposure to Hall of Fame consideration and we welcome their involvement."
The Hall also continues its Lone Star Legacies category, introduced in 2025, which recognizes influential figures in Texas radio history posthumously.
"Our 2026 ballot is a 'great read' because it spotlights the amazing journeys of broadcasters from markets big and small and touches virtually every job description in our industry that connects to the on-air product," Harris added.
The 2026 nominees, listed alphabetically, are:
- Doug Abernethy
- Brenda Adriance Fox
- David Anderson
- Brad Austin
- Lisa "Lisa Lisa" Bonanni
- Bill Bradford
- Raul Brindis
- Bruce "Jim Edwards" Buchanan
- John Butler
- Jay Cresswell
- Dave E. Crockett
- Diane Day
- Anna de Haro
- Paris Eley
- John Frost
- Rex Gabriel
- Jimmy "JD" Gonzalez
- Ric Gonzales
- Mark Grubbs
- John L. Hanson
- Frank Hicks
- JoJo and Patches (James Paczkowski and JoJo Cerda)
- Sam Jones
- Joyce King
- Kevin Kline
- Tim McDermott
- Charlie McGregor
- Hank Moore
- John "The Lama" Oakes
- Ray Odom
- Mona Parker
- Phil Parr
- Dave "Stone" Pinkston
- Eric Raines
- Tom Richards
- Clyde "Kooter" Roberson
- Chrissie Roberts
- Woody Roberts
- Melchor "Mel" Rodriguez
- JD Rose
- Buzz Russell
- Nathan Safir
- Gary Saunders
- Jack Sellmeyer
- Dr. J. Thomas Smith
- Ted Stecker
- Gary Stelly
- Gary "Blue Eyes" Walker
- Pam Wells
- Scott West
- Barry Wolverton
Information about the Hall's annual Radio Reunion and Induction Weekend as well as voting membership is available through the Texas Radio Hall of Fame website. Eligible members may still join the organization in time to participate in this year's voting.
Portland Radio Legend Craig Walker Dies at 80
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, July 24, 2026 | 3:23pm CT |
|
 |
Veteran Portland radio and television personality Craig Walker, whose warm on-air style made him one of Oregon's most recognizable broadcasters, died peacefully at his home on July 22. He was 80. Walker's death was announced by longtime friend and radio partner John Erickson, who praised his decades-long impact on Portland broadcasting.
"Craig redrew the landscape of Portland broadcasting with his intelligence, wit, and personality, and he did so with integrity and wisdom," Erickson wrote in a Facebook tribute. "The morning show he led on 62 KGW and later KKCW (K103) was consistently among the market leaders, and he was a longtime prime-time presence on KGW-TV as well."
Walker spent more than three decades as one of Portland's most popular broadcasters, first joining KGW Radio in 1972 before taking over its morning drive program in 1977. In 1986, he moved to KKCW-FM (K103), where he continued to host a top-rated morning show until retiring in 2005. He also became a familiar television personality as host of KGW-TV's PM Magazine and Good Evening.
Born in Nebraska in 1946, Walker moved to Dallas, OR, as a child, where his father owned a radio station. After graduating from Oregon State University in 1968 and serving in the National Guard, he began his broadcasting career in Corvallis before moving to Portland.
Throughout his career, Walker became known not only for his success on the air but also for sharing his personal life with listeners. In 1993, he publicly documented his battle with a rare liver disease and his wait for a life-saving liver transplant, later becoming a passionate advocate for organ donation and raising awareness of diabetes, bone cancer and breast cancer.
Following his retirement, Walker remained active in community events, including appearances at the Portland Rose Festival. His final public appearance came just a week before his death, when he reunited with former broadcasting colleagues at Portland's Lloyd Center.
K103 announced it will honor Walker's legacy during K103 Mornings with Stacey and Mike on Monday. Funeral arrangements are pending.
WYPC Flips to Seaboard's Great Oldies Format
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, July 24, 2026 | 7:24pm CT |
|
 |
Total Media has flipped WYPC in Wellston-Jackson, OH, to Oldies using Seaboard Networks' "Good Time, Great Oldies" programming, marking the company's second format conversion with Seaboard in as many weeks.
The move follows Total Media's recent launch of "Southern Ohio Gold" on WATH in Athens, OH, after that station transitioned from Sports to Oldies. Both stations are programmed by Seaboard Networks CEO Steve Clendenin.
According to Clendenin, the WYPC launch represents Total Media's second station to adopt Seaboard's Gold 24/7 format. He said the format was customized for the local market in collaboration with JJ Hale and the Total Media team to create the desired sound and presentation.
"The flip represents the second for Total Media Group using Seaboard's Gold 24/7 format," Clendenin said. "The format was customized for the local market while working closely with JJ Hale and the team at Total Media to ensure the sound and presentation they were looking for."
KIRO Adds Tami Michaels Weekend Home Show
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, July 24, 2026 | 7:20pm CT |
|
 |
KIRO (Newsradio 97.3 FM) Seattle is expanding its weekend lineup with the addition of Inside Out with Tami Michaels, a new one-hour lifestyle and home improvement program debuting Saturday, August 8. Hosted by interior designer and licensed general contractor Tami Michaels, the show will air Saturdays from 2-3pm PT.
Michaels, who has more than 25 years of experience in interior design and home renovation, said the new program will blend practical advice with entertaining conversations tailored to Pacific Northwest homeowners.
"I am incredibly honored to join the legendary team at KIRO Newsradio 97.3 FM and to start this new chapter in a city that truly lives and breathes local radio," Michaels said. "My goal has always been to spark entertaining and helpful conversations on home improvement from an interior designer's perspective. There simply is no better way to do that than right here on KIRO Newsradio."
Bryan Buckalew, Director of News and Talk Programming at KIRO, said Michaels' expertise and approachable style make her a strong addition to the station's weekend schedule.
"We couldn't be more excited for Tami to join KIRO Newsradio's weekend lineup," Buckalew said. "She brings a rare combination of expertise and warmth to the microphone. The addition of Inside Out to our weekend programming underscores our ongoing commitment to providing Seattle-area listeners with content that is both informative and directly relevant to their everyday lives."
Advertisement
|
Advertisement
|
Advertisement
|
Advertisement
|
Advertisement
|
Advertisement
|
|
Copyright © 1989-2026 RADIO ONLINE ® |
