Top Radio News

NAB Announces 2026 Crystal Radio Award Finalists

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 2:10pm CT

NAB Crystal Radio Awards

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has announced the 50 finalists for the 2026 NAB Crystal Radio Awards. Since 1987, these awards have honored radio stations for their outstanding community service efforts, from radiothons for their local children's hospitals and support for veterans to food drives after severe weather events.

Ten Crystal Radio Award winners will be chosen from the finalists by a panel of judges representing the broadcast industry, community service organizations and public relations firms.

The 2026 Crystal Radio Awards finalists are:

• KBHP-FM, Bemidji, MN
• KBLB-FM, Brainerd, MN
• KCLR-FM, Columbia, MO
• KFGE-FM, Lincoln, NE
• KFI-AM, Los Angeles, CA
• KFRG-FM, Riverside, CA
• KGLK-FM, Houston, TX
• KIKV-FM, Alexandria, MN
• KIRO-AM, Seattle, WA
• KIRO-FM, Seattle, WA
• KKBQ-FM, Houston, TX
• KKFN-FM, Denver, CO
• KNDE-FM, College Station, TX
• KNDE-HD3, College Station, TX
• KOSI-FM, Denver, CO
• KRMG-FM, Tulsa, OK
• KRSP-FM, Salt Lake City, UT
• KSL-FM, Salt Lake City, UT
• KSTP-FM, Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN
• KTAR-FM, Phoenix, AZ
• KTMY-FM, Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN
• KTXY-FM, Columbia, MO
• KUPD-FM, Phoenix, AZ
• KXKT-FM, Omaha, NE
• KYGO-FM, Denver, CO
• WALR-FM, Atlanta, GA
• WAMO-AM, Pittsburgh, PA
• WBAL-AM, Baltimore, MD
• WBZZ-FM, Pittsburgh, PA
• WCCO-AM, Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN
• WCFB-FM, Orlando, FL
• WCLU-AM, Bowling Green, KY
• WDRV-FM, Chicago, IL
• WDSY-FM, Pittsburgh, PA
• WDUV-FM, Tampa, FL
• WEEI-FM, Boston, MA
• WFLS-FM, Fredericksburg, VA
• WFMS-FM, Indianapolis, IN
• WHJX-FM, Jacksonville, FL
• WHPT-FM, Tampa, FL
• WIYY-FM, Baltimore, MD
• WKIS-FM, Miami-Fort Lauderdale, FL
• WMMR-FM, Philadelphia, PA
• WNOR-FM, Norfolk, VA
• WOKV-FM, Jacksonville, FL
• WSB-AM, Atlanta, GA
• WTBC-FM, Tuscaloosa, AL
• WTMX-FM, Chicago, IL
• WYOT-FM, Rockford, IL
• WZPL-FM, Indianapolis, IN

The awards will be presented during a special ceremony at the NAB State Leadership Conference in Washington, DC, on March 3, 2026.

SBS Posts Lower Q3 Revs, Sees 2025 Strong Sequential Gains

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 4:01pm CT

Spanish Broadcasting System (SBS)

Spanish Broadcasting System (SBS) reported third-quarter 2025 financial results on Wednesday, highlighting improved performance compared to earlier this year despite continued softness in the broader advertising market. The company said sequential gains in revenue, Station Operating Income, and Adjusted OIBDA point to progress in its cost-reduction and digital-expansion strategies.

SBS posted Q3 net revenue of $31.3 million, down 13% from the same period in 2024, with declines in local, national, and network advertising partly offset by increases in digital and barter sales. Operating expenses fell 12% year-over-year to $21.4 million, driven by lower compensation, programming costs, commissions, and affiliate payments. Station Operating Income totaled $9.8 million, a 14% drop from last year, while Adjusted OIBDA declined 15% to $7.9 million.

Chairman and CEO Raul Alarcon said the company's long-term initiatives are beginning to show results. "Despite the very challenging economic environment impacting our industry this year, we believe the strategic steps underway will position us to deliver significantly improved results as the overall economy regains its footing," he said. Sequentially, SBS reported gains from the first quarter with net revenue up 5%, Station Operating Income up 35%, and Adjusted OIBDA up 61%.

Digital growth continues to be a key focus, with LaMusica's Monthly Active Uniques up 13.4% year-over-year. Recent distribution partnerships-including a ROKU rollout that contributed a 34% quarter-to-quarter increase in new users-have expanded the company's streaming footprint. SBS now produces nearly 70 hours of daily live video content across digital platforms at minimal incremental cost.

For the first nine months of 2025, SBS reported net revenue of $93.3 million, down 15% from the prior year, reflecting declines in special events and core advertising categories and the impact of non-cash impairment charges tied to uncertain market conditions and earlier wildfires in Los Angeles. Adjusted OIBDA for the nine-month period fell 32% to $15.1 million.

SBS completed the sale of its Puerto Rico television stations on August 15, generating $5.7 million in proceeds and a $2.8 million gain on the transaction. The company continues to pursue a broader sale of its remaining television and real estate assets.

SBS will hold a conference call to discuss its quarterly results on December 22 at 11am ET. A webcast and replay will be available on the company's website.

103.3 The APP Revives Alternative in San Antonio

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 10:43am CT

103.3 The APP in San Antonio

Connoisseur Media has relaunched 103.3 The APP on K277CX, bringing the Alternative format back to San Antonio for the first time in nearly ten years. The station officially debuted Monday, December 1, becoming the city's only dedicated Alternative outlet and offering more than three decades of influential music from the genre.

Broadcasting from the Tower of the Americas, 103.3 The APP features a deep playlist spanning artists such as Linkin Park, Green Day, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Imagine Dragons, The Lumineers, Sublime, and Nirvana. The brand also launches with a new companion mobile app -- available now in the Apple App Store and Google Play -- designed to give listeners an easy, on-the-go digital experience.

San Antonio native DJ Mighty Iris returns to local radio as the afternoon drive host from 3-7pm. "I'm honestly still in shock and honored that I will soon be able to return to the S.A. airwaves and be part of someone's drive home," Iris said. "We all love this station because it's different... Alternative music is timeless, and I'm beyond excited to reunite with 103.3 The APP."

Program Director Greg Martin said audience enthusiasm for the format's revival has been immediate. "San Antonio has always been a rock town, but there has been a void in this city for this body of music," he said. "103.3 The APP was received with great praise when it debuted nearly a decade ago, and the excitement is absolutely here again for this second run."

The launch also underscores Connoisseur Media's expanding national commitment to alternative radio. "With the launch of 101.5 The Fridge in Dayton, the reimaging of 106.3 The Core in Saginaw, our heritage ALT properties in Columbia and Louisville, and now 103.3 The APP in San Antonio, Connoisseur Media is making a strong commitment to the health and future of alternative music," said Keith Dakin, Vice President of Programming.

Power 105.1 Elevates Prostyle, Wilson to Leadership Roles

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 10:31am CT

Alexander Santelises and Symantha Wilson

iHeartMedia's Hip Hop WWPR (Power 105.1) New York has announced two leadership promotions, naming Alexander Santelises -- known on-air as DJ Prostyle -- as Assistant Program Director and elevating Symantha Wilson to Music Director for Power 105.1 and Producer for The Breakfast Club. Both appointments are effective immediately.

In their expanded roles, Prostyle and Wilson will help direct the station's programming vision, refine its music strategy, and strengthen listener engagement. They will work closely with the senior programming team, including Executive Vice President of Programming Thea Mitchem and Eddie Fennell, Assistant Program Director and Executive Producer for The Breakfast Club. Prostyle will also continue as evening air talent at co-owend WKTU (103.5 KTU).

"I'm incredibly honored and thrilled to step into this next chapter of my career as APD at Power 105.1," said DJ Prostyle. "This station has been a defining voice in Hip-Hop, and I'm excited for the opportunity to help shape its next era alongside the best in the business. Thank you, Thea, for this incredible opportunity. I'm happy to be back-let's go!"

Wilson called the promotion a "full-circle moment," adding, "This station shaped my earliest years, so joining Thea Mitchem, Eddie Fennell and Prostyle on the leadership team is an honor."

Mitchem praised both leaders for their long-standing contributions. "Prostyle and Symantha have truly earned these promotions through their hard work, creativity and dedication to the Power 105.1 brand," she said. "Both bring an unmatched passion for music and a deep understanding of how to engage listeners and grow audiences in today's competitive landscape."

Westwood One Launches New Drake C. Toll Morning Show

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 10:16am CT

Drake C. Toll

Westwood One is expanding its sports lineup with the debut of a new national morning show hosted by sports media personality Drake C. Toll. The program will air weekdays from 6-9am, positioning Toll as the network's latest voice. Toll brings a fast-paced, high-energy approach shaped by his work as a play-by-play broadcaster for the wildly popular Savannah Bananas.

Toll launched his media career in Vilonia, AR, co-founding EagleVision -- named the 2019 Arkansas Sports Network of the Year. While at Baylor University, he contributed to SicEm365 and later Sports Illustrated's Baylor Bears platform. He went on to host Locked On Baylor and later Locked On Big 12, growing it into the top Big 12 podcast in the country. His work has been featured by ESPN, TNT, SI, and Front Office Sports. Toll will continue calling games for the Savannah Bananas alongside the new show.

"Westwood One is the gold standard in audio, and it's an honor to join a brand creatively steeped in sports storytelling," said Toll. "I'm prepared to push the limits of sports talk... We're going to create something special, I promise you that."

"Drake represents exactly what we're building -- a modern, interactive sports experience that is driven by personalities and fueled by fans," added Bruce Gilbert, Senior Vice President, Sports/Content & Audience. "His ability to entertain, connect, and innovate makes him the ideal voice for mornings on Westwood One."

FCC Closes More Than 2,000 Inactive Proceedings

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 4:05pm CT

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has closed 2,048 inactive proceedings, marking the largest single termination of dormant dockets in the agency's history. The move is part of an ongoing effort to streamline operations, modernize internal processes, and improve overall regulatory efficiency.

FCC Chairman Brandon Carr called the action an example of strong, practical governance. "By closing dormant proceedings, the FCC can help provide the regulatory certainty needed for investments and deployments in communities across the country," Carr said, commending staff for their work on the record-setting initiative.

The Consumer and Government Affairs Bureau led the review of the inactive dockets in coordination with multiple FCC bureaus and offices as part of the Ninth Dormant Proceedings Termination Public Notice. Once the Termination Order is published in the Federal Register, the dockets will be formally removed from the FCC's Electronic Comment Filing System. All documents associated with the closed proceedings will remain accessible as part of the Commission's official records.

The FCC noted that this action is separate from its recent "In Re: Delete, Delete, Delete" proceeding. While both efforts aim to improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary burdens, the termination of dormant dockets focuses on clearing inactive proceedings, rather than eliminating outdated or unnecessary regulations.

BBC Introducing Debuts U.S. Show via TN College Radio

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 2:36pm CT

BBC Introducing in America

BBC Introducing is making its official U.S. debut with the launch of "BBC Introducing in America," premiering Friday, December 5, through a new partnership with the College Radio Foundation. The monthly program will air on the first Friday of each month and will pilot in Tennessee before expanding to more states.

The show will broadcast from 90.3 FM WUTK (The Rock) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Senior students Sherleen Mwaura and Cade Beasley will co-host the series, with each edition also featuring another campus station -- beginning with WRVU at Vanderbilt University.

Designed to elevate emerging talent, BBC Introducing in America will highlight independent artists from across Tennessee and showcase a UK act in every episode. The first featured UK artist will be Nectar Woode, originally supported by BBC Introducing in 2022 and a performer on the BBC Introducing stage at Glastonbury in 2025.

Local musicians can submit songs through the College Radio Foundation for a chance to be featured on-air.

Launched in 2007, BBC Introducing has played a pivotal role in nurturing new UK artists and has seen continuous growth in independent submissions. The expansion into the U.S. aims to create a global platform for undiscovered music and strengthen ties between American college radio and the BBC's artist development efforts.

"I'm incredibly grateful to co-host the first BBC Introducing in America show and pour into the local live music space," said Mwaura. Beasley added, "If you told me a year ago I would be doing this, I'd call you a liar."

BBC Introducing Editor Kelly Betts called the U.S. launch an exciting next chapter. "I'm so excited to take Introducing across the pond to see who we can uncover and support in the US and what opportunities this brings to UK and US artists alike."

College Radio Foundation founder Rob Quicke said the partnership offers student broadcasters "an incredible, unprecedented experience." Quicke, Lori Quicke, and Tim Craig will serve as executive producers of the program.

BBC Introducing in America will be available beginning December 5 at collegeradio.org.

New Study Reveals How Americans Use and View TikTok

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 3, 2025 | 3:50pm CT

Edison Research

Edison Research has released new findings from The Infinite Scroll: A TikTok Report, offering a detailed look at how Americans use and perceive the platform. Presented during a webinar by Senior Director of Research Alex Bargiacchi and Associate Director of Research Salma Aly, the study examined user habits, attitudes toward TikTok, ad recall, content discovery, and concerns about time spent on the app.

According to the research, 29% of Americans age 13 and older use TikTok daily. Another 10% use the app once or twice a week, while 8% check in once or twice a month.

Among U.S. weekly TikTok users 13 plus, perceptions of the platform remain overwhelmingly positive. Three-quarters say they feel "entertained" when using TikTok, while 48% report feeling "happy" and 41% feel "relaxed." More than a third (36%) say the app makes them feel "connected."

TikTok also plays a major role in media discovery. Sixty-four percent of weekly users have found new music on the platform, 47% have discovered new podcasts, and 30% say TikTok has helped them find new audiobooks. Younger users (13-24) over-index in all three categories.

Demographic differences are notable as well. Weekly TikTok users skew younger and more diverse than the general U.S. population: 34% are 13-24 (vs. 20% of all Americans), 43% are 25-44 (vs. 30%), and just 23% are 45 plus (vs. 50%). Seventeen percent identify as Black or African American (vs. 11% nationally), and 22% are Hispanic or Latino (vs. 15%).

TikTok users also show strong ad recall, with 78% of weekly users reporting they have seen or heard an ad for a product or service on the platform.

But many also acknowledge concerns about time spent on the app. Forty-two percent of weekly users say they spend too much time on TikTok, and 34% have tried to stop or limit their usage. Younger users are significantly more likely to feel they overuse the platform and to attempt cutting back.

"TikTok demands attention as a discovery platform for audio content," said Bargiacchi. "If you have music, a podcast, or even an audiobook you want to promote, you must have a TikTok presence and strategy."

Aly added, "TikTok isn't just a Gen Z thing anymore. People of all ages are showing up, connecting, and building real communities. You can watch it in real time -- a song starts trending, a podcast gains a new wave of listeners, or a film clip becomes a cultural moment."

Additional findings show that 58% of weekly TikTok users have posted a video, while 87% say the platform helps them escape daily stress. Another 87% believe TikTok brings people together. Feelings of connection are especially strong among men, Black/African American users, and those 13-24.

On the question of ownership, views remain split: 31% of weekly users say it is very important that TikTok be owned by an American company, while 35% say it is not important. The divide widens along political lines -- 50% of Republicans consider it very important, compared with 30% of Democrats and 20% of Independents.

Audio Drives Big Gains for Cellular Brands, Study Finds

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, December 2, 2025 | 10:52pm CT

Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group

AM/FM Radio continues to play an outsized role in the nation's wireless marketplace, according to new insights from the Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group. An analysis of consumer behavior, media usage, and ROI reveals that America's three largest carriers -- Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T -- rely heavily on AM/FM audio to build brand equity and attract new subscribers.

MediaRadar reports that AM/FM Radio now ranks fourth in telecom ad spending for the first half of 2025. Despite investing three times more in TV, cellular brands see stronger brand equity among audio audiences than among heavy TV viewers.

AM/FM Radio's reach is a major factor. Among adults 25-54, it delivers the highest monthly reach of any media, and it surprisingly leads all platforms among 18-34s. MRI Simmons data shows audio consumers are especially valuable to wireless marketers. Heavy AM/FM listeners are:

• 8% more likely to be in the market for a new provider than heavy TV viewers

• Strongly aligned with the profile of consumers planning to switch carriers in the next year

• More likely to fall within the key 18-44 demo, which makes up 57% of upcoming switchers

Podcast listeners and heavy radio users match the in-market consumer profile across age, household size, income, and employment -- something TV can't match.

A Nielsen case study found that AM/FM advertising generated $14 in incremental cellular brand sales for every dollar spent. In one quarter, a $15 million radio investment produced $209 million in incremental sales, highlighting radio's efficiency in driving real purchase behavior.

Listeners in several audio formats are more likely to be shopping for a new carrier, including:

• Urban
• Hispanic
• CHR/Top 40
• Christian
• Adult Standards
• Adult Hits
• Soft AC

Dozens of podcast genres also index high for wireless shoppers.

A Harris Poll Brand Tracker study of 8,913 respondents showed that a major cellular brand enjoyed much higher momentum, quality perception, familiarity and consideration among audio listeners than among heavy TV viewers.

Despite heavy linear TV spending, brand usage and recommendation actually declined among heavy TV audiences, suggesting those consumers are simply not engaged with the wireless category.

Radio's superpower continues to be incremental reach, especially among younger and more mobile consumers -- the same people most likely to change wireless carriers. For telecom marketers seeking growth, the data suggests AM/FM Radio remains one of the most potent tools in their media arsenal.

Read the entire blog post here.

Jeff Warshaw Appointed to NAB Radio Board Seat

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, December 2, 2025 | 10:19am CT

Jeff Warshaw

The National Association of Broadcasters has named Jeff Warshaw, founder and CEO of Connoisseur Media, to the NAB Radio Board, filling the District 24 seat previously held by Bob Proffitt. The appointment is effective immediately under NAB bylaws.

Warshaw leads one of the largest radio groups in the country. After Connoisseur Media's 2025 acquisition of Alpha Media Group, the company now operates more than 200 stations reaching roughly 20% of U.S. listeners. A longtime advocate for the industry, he currently chairs the Nielsen Audio Advisory Council and recently completed his term as chair of the Radio Advertising Bureau board. Warshaw began his career by building a campus radio station while a student at the Wharton School and has since guided two major broadcast companies.

The NAB also filled two vacancies on its Television Board, appointing TelevisaUnivision executive Veronica Rodriguez and NBCUniversal's Matt Schnaars. Their additions round out the organization's leadership as it continues navigating rapid change across the media landscape.

Sports Audio: Where Fan Passion Becomes Brand Power

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, December 2, 2025 | 10:28am CT

Insights From Audacy

Insights From Audacy highlights the growing influence of sports Audio as one of the most trusted and emotionally charged environments for brand advertisers. Far beyond the roar of the crowd, Audacy says the daily voice of hometown sports hosts has become the true heartbeat of fans in cities like Philadelphia, Buffalo and Kansas City -- and a potent asset for marketers.

According to the report, fans rely on local sports hosts to celebrate victories, dissect losses, and provide the daily sense of community that national feeds can't replicate. In Philadelphia, that fan connection runs deep, where listeners turn to 94WIP's Spike Eskin for pregame intensity or celebrate with iconic play-by-play voice Merrill Reese. They even call in to vent about the latest coaching decisions -- a level of passion brands can tap into.

Audacy notes that this trusted bond powers a "halo effect" for advertisers: when a host endorses a product, audiences perceive it as genuine advice rather than a scripted pitch. The report says 44% of listeners feel more connected to a brand after hearing it recommended by a favorite Audio creator.

Stations like WFAN in New York, 670 The Score in Chicago and WEEI in Boston foster interactive communities where fans shape the conversation as much as the hosts. The impact can even cross into the game itself - Phillies star Bryce Harper once credited a fired-up WIP caller for motivating him to hit a home run.

That emotional connection translates into real business results. Audacy cites data showing sports talk listeners are three times more likely to visit a brand's website, four times more likely to make a purchase and six times more likely to download a brand's app after hearing an endorsement.

Authenticity remains the cornerstone of effective partnerships. Former NFL running back and WFAN host Tiki Barber emphasized that he only promotes products he genuinely uses, explaining that authenticity is what resonates with listeners and drives results.

As fan engagement evolves across social media, podcasts and constant call-ins, Audacy concludes that the most successful sports marketing blends seamlessly into the broader fan conversation. When brands align with the right voice, the voice of the fan can become their most powerful advocate.

Read the entire article here.

River Radio Flips Three Ohio Signals to Boost Radio

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, December 2, 2025 | 2:48pm CT

Boost Radio

River Radio Ministries has expanded its reach to younger Christian audiences with the launch of Boost Radio on multiple Ohio signals through a new partnership with Gateway Media's St. Louis-based Boost Radio network.

As of Monday, December 1, The River has flipped three stations -- 90.1 Canton, 88.9 Tiffin and 88.7 Findlay -- to Christian Hip-Hop. Boost Radio is also now heard on 104.9 HD2 in Columbus and 104.5 HD2 in Wooster. Another River Radio signal, 91.1 Ashland, will transition to Boost on January 1.

River Program Director Josh Hooper said the new format aligns with the organization's strategy to serve younger listeners across college-heavy regions.

"These frequencies are strategically placed to serve the next generation of Christian music consumers, with vibrant college campuses within each broadcasting area," Hooper said. "One of our main goals over the next three years is to bring new formats to the state of Ohio and reach more people with the Good News of who Jesus really is. We're excited to partner with Boost Radio to do just that through 'Hip Hop Built Different.'"

Boost Radio's Mike Couchman echoed that enthusiasm, noting the organizations' shared mission.

"Boost Radio is thrilled to officially partner with River Radio Ministries," he said. "Their heart to reach Ohio with the love of Jesus, and do it with excellence, syncs up perfectly with ours. We're excited to see how God moves."

The Wally Show Podcast Tops 20 Million Downloads

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, December 2, 2025 | 10:33am CT

Hope Media Group

Hope Media Group is marking a major digital milestone as "The Wally Show Podcast" has surpassed 20 million total downloads, a significant achievement for the long-running Christian radio program.

Launched in 2009, the podcast has grown into one of Christian radio's most recognizable digital brands, now nearing 2,000 episodes. Hosted by Wally, Betty Rock and producer Gavin, the show delivers two episodes each day: highlights from that morning's WayFM broadcast and The Aftercast, a podcast-only segment known for longer, looser and often funnier conversations.

The Aftercast was created for fans who wanted even more of the trio's humor, chemistry and candid discussions about life, faith, culture and whatever topic is sparking Wally's spirited commentary that day. Despite the occasional deeper dive, the show's trademark light-hearted tone keeps listeners coming back.

Fans -- lovingly dubbed "Poddies" -- have built a tight-knit community around the show. One listener described it as "not like church; it's like hanging out at lunch with your friends after church."

"Hitting 20 million downloads is wild," Wally said. "We started the Aftercast because we wanted space for deeper conversations... mixed with the usual chaos of our show. Knowing people still want to spend more time with us after all these years means more than they know. Our Poddies make this possible."

Shawn Farrington, HMG's SVP of Digital, added: "To succeed in podcasting, you have to understand your audience, show up consistently, and commit to the long game. The Wally Show has done that since 2009. Every download represents a real moment where someone found encouragement, laughter or a step closer to Jesus."

PickleJar Up All Night Expands Nationwide on LRN

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, December 2, 2025 | 10:57pm CT

PickleJar Entertainment Group & Local Radio Networks

PickleJar Entertainment Group is expanding its flagship Country radio program, "PickleJar Up All Night," across more than 80 Local Radio Networks (LRN) affiliates in a nationwide rollout. The show is offered weeknights from 7pm-midnight or midnight-6am ET and is hosted from Nashville by Katie Cook and Scott Gaines.

The expansion is powered in part by growing adoption of PickleJar's Venue Management System (VMS) inside local music venues, as well as new monetization pathways for affiliates through PickCaster digital signage installed in those same locations.

PickleJar is also in discussions with several national brands regarding studio naming rights, aiming to integrate commercial partnerships across broadcast platforms, venue systems, and PickCaster advertising networks.

"This partnership is more than expanded airtime -- it's expanded access," said Kristian Barowsky, President and Co-Founder of PickleJar Entertainment Group. "Reaching millions of new listeners gives us the opportunity to showcase talent on a national stage while strengthening VMS distribution in small and mid-sized markets."

Chris Reeves, VP of Programming at Local Radio Networks, added, "PickleJar Up All Night is the kind of modern, fan-forward content we love to bring to our affiliates. This is only the beginning of where PickleJar and LRN are going."

FCC Fines Sun Signals, Clears Way for W230CP Renewal

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, December 2, 2025 | 4:23pm CT

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

The FCC's Audio Division has adopted a Consent Decree resolving multiple rule violations involving FM translator W230CP in Pittsfield, MA, licensed to Sun Signals LLC. The action clears the way for renewal of the station's license once the company meets several conditions, including payment of fines and corrections to its filings.

The case stems from a petition to deny filed by Townsquare License, LLC, licensee of WBEC-AM, alleging that W230CP rebroadcast WBEC without authorization, operated for months with "dead air," failed to provide required station IDs, and submitted inaccurate information in its 2021 license renewal application.

According to the FCC, Sun Signals continued to rebroadcast WBEC even after Townsquare notified the company -- starting February 2021 -- that it no longer had permission to do so. The Commission found this violated Section 325(a) of the Communications Act, which bars retransmitting another station's programming without consent.

Sun Signals argued it believed it still had permission from WBEC's former owner, but the FCC concluded the translator operator must stop rebroadcasting once the current licensee revokes consent.

Monitoring by Townsquare in 2021 and 2022 found the translator running without any audio input, a condition the FCC says violates multiple technical rules. The station also failed to transmit its required Morse code or relay-based station identification.

Sun Signals later acknowledged a failure in the translator's audio input circuitry caused loss of both program audio and CW ID.

Under the Consent Decree adopted December 2, the FCC will terminate its investigation once Sun Signals pays a $6,000 Voluntary Contribution to the U.S. Treasury, pays the overdue filing fee and penalty, and files an amendment correcting its fee-exemption certifications and confirming that proper online public notice has now been given.

Sun Signals formally admitted violating multiple FCC rules, including those governing unauthorized retransmission, false statements, translator operations, and notice obligations.

The FCC denied Townsquare's petition to deny the license renewal, concluding the violations -- while numerous -- did not rise to the level of "serious violations" or a "pattern of abuse" under Section 309(k) of the Communications Act.

Once Sun Signals completes all required payments and amendments, the FCC will grant the renewal application for W230CP by separate action.

Rob Parker Named NSMA Hall of Fame Finalist

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, December 2, 2025 | 2:33pm CT

Rob Parker

FOX Sports Radio's Rob Parker has been selected as a finalist for the 2026 National Sports Media Association (NSMA) Hall of Fame in the Living Sportswriter category. Parker -- co-host of The Odd Couple with Rob Parker & Kelvin Washington, MLB Network analyst, and founder/editor of MLBbro.com -- is among 40 all-time greats advancing to the final round following a month-long nomination ballot by NSMA members.

"It's an absolute honor to be considered with so many journalism heavyweights," Parker said.

Winners will be notified in the first week of January, with inductions set for the NSMA's 66th Awards Weekend & National Convention, June 28-29, 2026, at Grandover Resort & Spa in Greensboro, NC.

The recognition adds to a growing list of honors for Parker. He was inducted into the NABJ Hall of Fame in 2023, and earlier this year his alma mater, Southern Connecticut State University, dedicated the Jess Dow Field press box in his name.

YouTube Reveals 2025 Trends, Top Podcasts & New Recap Tool

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, December 2, 2025 | 10:42am CT

YouTube

YouTube is closing out its 20th anniversary year with two major end-of-year releases: its annual Trending Lists and the launch of YouTube Recap, a personalized year-in-review feature for users.

The 2025 Trending Lists highlight the creators, songs, cultural moments-and for radio and audio fans, the top podcasts-that shaped viewing and listening habits this year. The rankings are based on in-country activity across views, uploads, fan engagement and other signals, according to YouTube's Culture & Trends team.

YouTube's Top Podcasts list is driven by total U.S. watch time for full-length podcast playlists (excluding clips and Shorts). This year's top 10 reflect a mix of talk, comedy, true crime and political commentary:

1. The Joe Rogan Experience
2. Kill Tony
3. Good Mythical Morning
4. Rotten Mango
5. The MeidasTouch Podcast
6. 48 Hours
7. Shawn Ryan Show
8. Smosh Reads Reddit Stories
9. This Past Weekend w/Theo Von
10. The Diary Of A CEO

Among the top trending topics were Squid Game, user-generated Roblox experiences, KPop Demon Hunters, and the rising popularity of collectible character Labubu. Classic songs like Connie Francis' "Pretty Little Baby" and the Black Eyed Peas' "Rock That Body" also surged in Shorts creations, showing how older tracks can find new life on the platform.

For the first time, YouTube users can access YouTube Recap, a personalized highlight reel summarizing their 2025 watch patterns. Recap includes up to 12 cards showing top channels, interests, watch-time evolution, and even a user "personality type." Music listeners can also explore their top artists, songs, and podcast listening via the YouTube Music app.

Recap is available now on the YouTube homepage or under the You tab across mobile and desktop.

"YouTube remains the ultimate engine for shared pop culture experiences," said Kevin Allocca, Global Director of YouTube Culture & Trends, citing the platform's ability to propel creators, songs and new formats into the mainstream.