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Top Radio News
iHeartMedia Begins Programming Restructuring
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 | 9:48pm CT |
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iHeartMedia has begun a sweeping restructuring of its programming organization that includes staff reductions across dozens of markets as the company works toward an additional $50 million in annualized cost savings announced earlier this year.
The restructuring follows iHeartMedia's first-quarter announcement that it would launch a new cost-saving initiative in the second half of 2026, adding $50 million in annualized savings to the $100 million in previously announced reductions already planned or underway. Industry reports indicate the latest layoffs affect employees in programming and on-air roles across multiple markets, although the company has not disclosed the number of positions eliminated.
In a memo to employees, Multiplatform Group CEO Ann Marie Licata and Chief Programming Officer Tom Poleman said the changes are intended to modernize how the company programs its stations by leveraging technology developed over the past several years.
"We've built new tech capabilities over the last several years that have enabled us to both deepen our relationships with the listeners and communities who depend on us and improve the support we provide to our sellers," the executives wrote. "We're now moving to scale this approach, implementing structural changes within our Programming organization and expanding responsibilities for key leaders."
According to the memo, the restructuring is designed to strengthen support for local communities and sales teams, make greater use of technology, improve operational speed across markets, and position the company for future growth. While emphasizing that "Guaranteed Human" talent remains central to iHeartMedia's strategy, the executives acknowledged that existing positions would be eliminated even as new roles are created to support the company's evolving needs.
Industy reports have confirmed layoffs in markets including Anchorage, Indianapolis, Louisville, St. Louis, Springfield, Birmingham, Pensacola, Phoenix, Little Rock, Denver, Pittsburgh, Des Moines, Allentown and Rochester. Among those reportedly departing are programmers, market executives and air personalities.
Reports also suggest additional layoffs continued into Tuesday, with sources indicating the overall reduction in programming and on-air staff could rival or exceed the scale of iHeartMedia's major workforce reductions in 2009 and 2020. The company has not confirmed those reports or provided an updated total of affected employees.
SBS Promotes Andrew Frausto to Los Angeles GSM
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 | 4:33pm CT |
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Spanish Broadcasting System (SBS) has promoted Andrew Frausto to General Sales Manager for its Los Angeles operations, effective immediately. Frausto, who joined SBS Los Angeles in 2024 as Local Sales Manager, will now oversee all sales operations for the company's Los Angeles properties, including regional and national revenue initiatives for its radio and digital platforms.
In his new role, Frausto will lead sales activities for SBS's Los Angeles stations, including KLAX-FM and KXOL-FM, while helping drive strategic growth throughout the company's multimedia portfolio.
Prior to joining SBS, Frausto built extensive experience in Hispanic media sales, including a successful tenure with Univision.
Rachel Elster, General Manager of SBS Los Angeles, praised Frausto's contributions and leadership since joining the company. "Andrew has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and a deep understanding of our business," Elster said. "Since joining SBS, he has earned the respect of our team, our clients, and our agency partners through his commitment to excellence and results."
Frausto said he is eager to continue building on the company's success in Southern California. "I am honored by the opportunity to serve as General Sales Manager for SBS Los Angeles," he said. "SBS has built an incredible team and a powerful connection with the Southern California Hispanic community. I look forward to continuing to work with our talented staff and valued partners to drive growth and deliver outstanding results for our clients."
Mike Fabian Named Cumulus Boise Market Manager
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 | 2:13pm CT |
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Cumulus Media has appointed Mike Fabian as Vice President/Market Manager for its cluster in Boise, ID. Fabian joins Cumulus from Townsquare Media, where he has served as Chief Revenue Officer/Market President in Sierra Vista, AZ, since 2022. Prior to that role, he spent more than 12 years with Cherry Creek Media, rising to Vice President while helping lead the company's sales, digital and operational growth initiatives.
In announcing the appointment, Bob Walker, President of Operations for Cumulus Media, said Fabian's experience managing radio clusters and delivering integrated radio and digital solutions will be a strong fit for the Boise operation.
"We are excited to welcome Mike to Cumulus Boise," Walker said. "His experience in leading radio clusters that serve clients with robust radio and digital solutions will complement our team in Boise well."
"I am honored to join the Boise team and look forward to becoming part of both the organization and this remarkable community," Fabian said. "Throughout my career, I have always believed that great teams and strong relationships are the foundation of success. I am excited to work alongside this talented group, serve the Boise community, and help build on the strong tradition these stations have established."
Cumulus Boise operates five stations in the market: News/Talk KBOI 93.1 FM/670 AM, Country KIZN-FM (Kissin 92.3), Classic Rock KKGL-FM (96.9 The Eagle), AC KQFC-FM (Magic 97.9), and Sports KTIK-FM (95.3 The Ticket).
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Global Study Highlights Audio's Marketing Power
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 | 1:57pm CT |
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A new global study unveiled at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity is making a strong case for audio advertising, with research showing campaigns that include audio deliver significantly stronger business and brand outcomes than those that do not.
For the first time, the leading commercial audio industry organizations in Australia, the United Kingdom, Ireland and the United States -- Commercial Radio & Audio (CRA), Radiocentre UK, Radiocentre Ireland and the Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB) -- joined forces to present a unified global message on the effectiveness of audio advertising.
The findings were presented by marketing expert Professor Mark Ritson during a session titled "The Secret to Profit and Trust: Audio" at the LBB & Friends Beach venue in Cannes. The research analyzed 1,262 campaigns from the Effie x System1 global databank, spanning 17 years and multiple international markets.
According to the study, campaigns incorporating audio outperformed those without audio across several key business measures. Audio-inclusive campaigns generated 75% greater profit, 81% higher trust levels, 81% greater price insensitivity and 19% stronger customer acquisition results. Across 14 effectiveness metrics, campaigns using audio delivered an average uplift of 22% compared to campaigns that did not include audio.
The research also highlighted audio's role in creative effectiveness. Emotionally driven campaigns that included audio nearly doubled the profit generated compared to similar campaigns without audio. The impact was amplified further when audio was paired with distinctive sonic branding and used consistently over time.
The study originated in Australia, where CRA commissioned an analysis of Effie Awards data from the Advertising Council of Australia. The work was conducted by independent marketing consultant Rob Brittain and Ritson before being expanded and tested against a larger global dataset that included campaigns from the U.S., U.K., Ireland and Europe.
RAB President and CEO Mike Hulvey said the findings provide radio sellers with valuable evidence at a time when advertisers are demanding measurable business outcomes.
"These findings reinforce what our industry has long known -- audio doesn't simply complement a media plan, it amplifies it," Hulvey said. "Whether the objective is driving profit, building trust or acquiring new customers, audio consistently strengthens campaign performance."
Ritson called the findings "beautiful data" and said the evidence for audio's effectiveness is clear across every market studied. "The case for audio's effectiveness is unequivocal," Ritson said. "Audio is the catalyst that makes your whole campaign work harder. For a relatively modest investment, it's an unfair advantage hiding in plain sight."
Following the presentation, Little Black Book Managing Editor AU/NZ Brittney Rigby moderated a discussion with System1 Chief Growth Officer Andrew Tindall, who said the data consistently demonstrates that emotional audio campaigns can roughly double profit and perform even better when supported by strong sonic branding and long-term consistency.
Kyle Youmans Named New Voice of the Ravens
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 | 10:38am CT |
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The Baltimore Ravens have named Kyle Youmans as the new "Voice of the Ravens," succeeding longtime play-by-play announcer Gerry Sandusky, who retired in April after 20 seasons in the role.
Youmans will serve as the team's radio play-by-play announcer for in-season broadcasts and call Ravens preseason television games. He also will take on a prominent role across the organization's media platforms, including radio, video, and podcast content, while contributing regularly to Hearst Baltimore programming on WBAL NewsRadio, 98 Rock and WBAL-TV.
The appointment makes Youmans just the third radio play-by-play voice in the Ravens' 31-year history, following Sandusky (2006-25) and Scott Garceau (1996-2005).
Youmans joins Baltimore after seven seasons with the Dallas Cowboys' media operations, where he worked as a television host, producer and reporter. During his tenure, he hosted more than 1,000 episodes of Cowboys programming and events, handled play-by-play duties for NFL television and radio broadcasts, anchored the team's NFL Draft coverage, and contributed to the Cowboys' "Deep Blue" documentary series.
A four-time Lone Star Emmy Award winner, Youmans also has extensive experience calling college football and basketball for Compass Media Networks and has worked across multiple ESPN platforms.
In the broadcast booth, Youmans will partner with Pro Football Hall of Famer Rod Woodson for Ravens radio broadcasts, which air on WBAL NewsRadio, 98 Rock and a 14-station affiliate network. The duo also will call Ravens preseason television games produced by Ravens Productions and carried on WBAL-TV 11 and regional television affiliates.
Ravens President Sashi Brown said Youmans brings a combination of play-by-play skill, storytelling ability and enthusiasm that will connect with fans while building on the foundation established by Sandusky.
Hearst Baltimore President and General Manager Dan Joerres praised Youmans' energy and passion, saying he will continue the tradition of excellence associated with Ravens broadcasts.
Woodson said Youmans' preparation, knowledge and situational awareness stood out during the interview process, adding that he looks forward to working alongside him in the booth.
A graduate of the University of North Texas, Youmans said being named the next Voice of the Ravens is the greatest honor of his broadcasting career. He credited Sandusky for helping define Baltimore sports broadcasting and said he hopes to build a similar connection with Ravens fans while helping usher in the next era of Ravens football coverage.
CRB Webinar Examines Country Music Generations
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 | 3:32pm CT |
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Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB) has released the latest edition of its CRS360 webinar series, offering new research into how country music fans of different generations view traditional and contemporary country music, as well as the growing number of country-pop collaborations.
The webinar, titled "Country Coalition: Family Reunion or Family Feud?," is now available for on-demand viewing and features research presented by Hal Rood, President of Strategic Solutions Research.
The session explores several long-held assumptions about country music audiences, examining whether younger listeners embrace traditional country music and whether longtime fans connect with today's contemporary country sound. It also analyzes audience reactions to the increasing number of collaborations between country and pop artists.
According to CRB, the research provides a detailed look at listener preferences by age, gender and geographic region, offering insights for radio programmers, broadcasters, record labels, artists and other industry professionals.
The webinar is moderated by Justin Chase, Chief Content Officer for Beasley Media Group, and RJ Curtis, Executive Director of CRB. Together, they review the study's findings and discuss strategies for balancing different eras and styles of country music within today's radio formats.
"'Country Coalition: Family Reunion or Family Feud?' explores one of the most important questions facing our format today: how different generations of listeners engage with country music, and it's not what has been generally assumed," Curtis said. "This CRS360 session provides meaningful data that can help broadcasters make informed and nuanced programming choices that will satisfy both longtime fans and new listeners."
For more information about CRS360 and upcoming educational opportunities, visit CountryRadioSeminar.com.
CMG Names Jules Riley Atlanta Programming Chief
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 | 11:02am CT |
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Cox Media Group (CMG) has appointed Jules Riley as Director of Operations and Programming for its Atlanta radio cluster, overseeing the programming strategy and daily operations for WSB-FM, WSRV and WALR. In her new role, Riley will oversee content and operational leadership across the stations, working closely with market management and air talent.
"Jules has achieved exceptional success throughout her career because she understands how to build strong brands, develop people, and lead high-performing teams," said David Abel, Vice President and Market Manager of CMG Atlanta Radio. "Her strategic mindset, operational expertise, and passion for connecting with audiences make her the ideal choice for this important leadership role."
Riley joins the Atlanta cluster from CMG Jacksonville Radio, where she most recently served as Director of Operations and Programming. There, she led programming efforts for the company's eight-station group.
CMG said Riley has built a reputation for driving innovation, mentoring talent, and implementing programming strategies designed to connect with local audiences while supporting broader business goals.
Cumulus Promotes Jay Davis to Regional VP
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 | 2:23pm CT |
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Cumulus Media has promoted Jay Davis to Regional Vice President, expanding his leadership responsibilities to include oversight of the company's six-station cluster in Colorado Springs, CO, while continuing to lead its Oklahoma City operations. Davis will retain his role as Vice President & Market Manager for Cumulus Oklahoma City, a post he has held since 2015, overseeing the market's radio and digital brands.
A longtime Cumulus executive, Davis joined the Oklahoma City cluster in 1989 as a Sales Representative. He was promoted to Sales Manager in 1997 and served in that role until being named Vice President/Market Manager in 2015.
Bob Walker, President of Operations for Cumulus Media, praised the appointment, saying, "Jay is an accomplished leader and the perfect partner for the team in Colorado Springs. We are eager to see the impact he and the team will continue to have in that community for our listeners and clients."
Davis said he looks forward to working with the Colorado Springs team. "I'm extremely excited to be a part of the Cumulus Colorado Springs team," he said. "They have been and remain an established, successful, and meaningful market for Cumulus, with a great and tenured staff. I very much look forward to getting to work there. I feel certain that the best is ahead."
Cumulus Media's Colorado Springs cluster includes KATC-FM (Cat Country 95.1), KCSF-AM (Xtra Sports Radio AM 1300), KKFM-FM (98.1 KKFM Classic Rock), KKMG-FM (98.9 Magic FM), KKPK-FM (92.9 Peak FM), and KVOR-AM (AM 740 KVOR).
In Oklahoma City, Davis oversees stations including KATT-FM (KATT Rock 100.5), KKWD-FM (Alice 104.9), KYIS-FM (98.9 Kiss FM), and WKY-AM (WKY The Sports Animal 930 AM), among others.
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Caroline Beasley Inducted Into FAB Hall of Fame
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 | 11:17am CT |
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Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley has been inducted into the 2026 Florida Broadcasters Hall of Fame, one of the industry's highest honors, during the Florida Association of Broadcasters' Annual Conference at The Breakers Resort in Palm Beach, FL.
The Hall of Fame recognizes broadcasters whose careers have made lasting contributions to the industry and the communities they serve. Beasley was honored for her leadership of Beasley Media Group and her commitment to local broadcasting, community engagement, and innovation amid a rapidly changing media landscape.
The induction carries special significance for the Beasley family. Caroline Beasley follows her father, the late George G. Beasley, founder of Beasley Media Group, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2024. Together, their recognition reflects nearly 65 years of the family's contributions to broadcasting and public service.
"I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this recognition from the Florida Association of Broadcasters," Beasley said. "I literally grew up in the radio broadcasting business. To be inducted into the Hall of Fame and follow my father, whose passion for this industry inspired so many, makes this recognition especially meaningful."
She added that she shares the honor with her family, colleagues, mentors, and Beasley Media Group employees whose dedication has helped drive the company's success.
Beasley was inducted alongside television broadcaster Jeannie Blaylock, anchor at First Coast News stations WTLV and WJXX, who was also recognized for her more than four decades of service to Florida viewers.
Heather Roberts Named News Director at KXL Portland
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 | 2:05pm CT |
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Connoisseur Media has promoted Heather Roberts to News Director at KXL in Portland, OR, expanding her leadership responsibilities at the heritage News/Talk outlet while she continues as co-anchor of Portland's Morning News.
In her new role, Roberts will oversee the editorial direction of KXL's newsroom, guide coverage and content strategy, and continue her daily on-air duties. She succeeds into a position that will play a key role in shaping the future of one of Portland's longest-serving news brands.
"Heather is a news force," said Grant McHill, Program Director for KXL. "She is relentless in her search for the news and will serve KXL well in this role. I'm excited to see where she takes the KXL News Department."
BFOA Giving Day Supports Broadcasters in Need
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 | 4:10pm CT |
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The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) will hold its annual Giving Day on Thursday, raising funds to support radio and television professionals facing severe financial hardship caused by debilitating illness, natural disasters, and other life-altering circumstances.
The organization, which provides financial assistance exclusively to members of the broadcasting community, has distributed more than $20 million in aid over the past 15 years. The support has benefited employees from more than 200 broadcast companies across 45 states and U.S. territories.
BFOA said the grants have helped broadcasters navigate some of the most difficult periods of their lives, providing a financial safety net when unexpected tragedies strike.
The annual Giving Day campaign encourages broadcasters, companies, and industry supporters to unite in support of colleagues in need. Funds raised help ensure the Foundation can continue providing emergency assistance to radio and television professionals facing significant personal and financial challenges.
The Broadcasters Foundation is the only charitable organization dedicated exclusively to helping broadcast professionals in acute need. Through its emergency grant program, the organization assists recipients with essential living expenses during periods of crisis.
BFOA is encouraging members of the broadcasting industry to participate in Giving Day, noting that contributions of any size can make a meaningful difference in the lives of fellow broadcasters and their families.
Donations can be made by clicking here.
WDUN Gainesville GA Host Martha Zoller Dies at 67
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 | 5:02pm CT |
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Martha Zoller, longtime WDUN/Gainesville, GA commentator, political analyst, and host of "The Martha Zoller Show," has died following a sudden illness. She was 67. According to her family, Zoller suffered a heart attack and passed away on Monday, June 22, just days before her planned retirement from daily radio hosting.
Zoller had hosted the midday program on WDUN since returning to the station in 2019, marking her second stint with the broadcaster. Over the course of her career, she spent more than 25 years at WDUN and became one of North Georgia's most recognizable media voices and political commentators.
Her final day on the air was Friday, June 19. Earlier this month, she announced plans to step away from her daily radio duties due to health concerns, with her final scheduled show set for June 26.
In addition to her broadcasting career, Zoller served on the Georgia State Board of Education and was a former candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives.
WDUN General Manager Bill Maine remembered Zoller as both a respected broadcaster and a close friend.
"I'm stunned," Maine said. "When I spoke with her before the show on Friday, she was full of energy, and we were sharing some jokes. She texted from the hospital. I think back on all the calls we shared during her time away. We kept up with each other, and I was excited when she returned to WDUN. More than a great broadcaster, she was a great friend. Always willing to help whomever she could, wherever she could."
Funeral services for Zoller have been scheduled for Monday, June 29, at 11am at Gainesville First United Methodist Church. A reception will follow in the church's Great Room. The service will also be livestreamed.
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Jeff Weber Media Takes Over History of Rock Syndication
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, June 24, 2026 | 10:41am CT |
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Jeff Weber Media will now handle radio syndication and advertising sales for the long-running History of Rock 'n' Roll weekly radio program. The announcement was made by Peter Gould, co-founder and producer of the show, which was created with legendary Wink Martindale and radio historian Gary Theroux. The program is widely recognized as one of radio's most comprehensive retrospectives of popular music and its cultural impact.
"The History of Rock 'n' Roll remains one of the most comprehensive celebrations of popular music ever produced for radio," Gould said. "I've known Jeff Weber's reputation in the radio industry for many years, so having him represent The History of Rock 'n' Roll is especially gratifying. His expertise in network radio and syndication, along with his passion for great programming, make him the ideal partner."
Weber said he is eager to expand the program's affiliate roster and introduce the show to new audiences. "I am excited to be working with Pete and this outstanding radio program," Weber said. "We look forward to growing the affiliate base and providing listeners with the music they grew up with and the stories behind those songs."
The two-hour program explores the artists, songs, and milestones that shaped rock and popular music, covering topics ranging from the rise of The Beatles and Motown to the biggest hits of the 1970s and influential female artists of the 1980s.
The History of Rock 'n' Roll is available to radio stations on a barter basis. Interested stations can reach Weber Media here.
TAB Show Puts Spotlight on Radio Innovation
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 22, 2026 | 5:36pm CT |
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The Texas Association of Broadcasters (TAB) is placing a renewed focus on radio at its 2026 TAB Show, a two-day conference expected to draw approximately 1,200 broadcasters, engineers, sales professionals and industry leaders to Austin-Round Rock on August 5-6.
Billed as one of the most radio-centric TAB Shows in recent years, the event will feature more than 25 educational sessions, over 100 exhibitors and a lineup of industry experts covering programming, sales, engineering and leadership. The agenda was developed with input from industry veterans including Gordon Borrell, Jimmy Steal and Jeff Schmidt, along with Texas radio and television executives and engineers.
In a move aimed at expanding participation, TAB is extending member pricing to broadcasters from New Mexico, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Arkansas and Louisiana.
"With all local stations facing the same challenges, we're putting out the welcome mat for broadcasters in the surrounding states so we can all grow and succeed together," said TAB President Oscar Rodriguez. "We've built a learn real stuff and put it to work kind of conference that's affordable and time-efficient, with content relevant to independent operators and station groups serving markets of all sizes."
Among the featured radio programming sessions are Phil Becker's presentation on improving radio's perception in an AI-driven and on-demand media environment, Seth Resler's discussion on building community-based revenue models, Juan Galdamez's session on leveraging audience data, and Jimmy Steal's presentation on talent development featuring Texas morning radio veterans JB and Sandy.
The conference's sales and leadership track will include a keynote from local advertising expert Gordon Borrell and a series of interactive workshops focused on revenue growth, sales strategy and business development. Radio Advertising Bureau Senior Vice President Jeff Schmidt will present "AI, AI - OH!" examining how broadcasters can incorporate artificial intelligence into the sales process.
University of Texas Athletic Director Chris Del Conte will deliver the "Breakfast for Champions" keynote, drawing parallels between building successful athletic programs and operating winning broadcast organizations.
Engineers and IT professionals will have access to two days of technical sessions covering artificial intelligence applications, transmission systems, podcast studio development, tower maintenance, hybrid distribution strategies and the latest FCC regulatory developments.
The event will conclude with the TAB Awards Gala, where Ben Downs of Bryan Broadcasting will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, Jan Fritz of Hill Country Broadcasting will be honored as Pioneer Broadcaster of the Year, Paul Gleiser of ATW Media will be recognized as Radio Broadcaster of the Year, and Cox Media Group San Antonio will receive Radio Station of the Year honors.
Florida Broadcasters Announce Leadership Changes
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 22, 2026 | 2:47pm CT |
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The Florida Association of Broadcasters (FAB) has announced a series of leadership changes, including the appointment of a new Chairman and Chairman-Elect, the addition of an Executive Committee member, and several new members to its Board of Directors.
As part of the association's leadership succession plan, John Soapes, President and General Manager of Hearst Television's Orlando and Tampa operations, has assumed the role of Chairman. Jason Meder, Vice President and Market Manager for Cox Media Group Radio in Tampa, has been named Chairman-Elect.
"I'm honored to serve as Chairman and to build on the tremendous work of Lara Kunkler, the Executive Committee, the FAB team, and this board," Soapes said. "Florida is one of the fastest growing and most dynamic states in the nation, and local broadcasters play an essential role in helping residents navigate that growth as trusted voices, first informers, and community partners."
FAB Executive Vice President and COO Heather Lomagistro and President and CEO Pat Roberts praised the appointments, noting that Soapes and Meder bring extensive experience and leadership to the association.
The association also named Carolyn Cassidy, Vice President and Regional General Manager for Salem Media, to its Executive Committee. Cassidy oversees Salem's operations in Columbus, Tampa, Orlando and Miami and serves on the company's senior leadership team.
Joining the FAB Board of Directors are Darren Moore, Senior Vice President and Chief Sales Officer of Cox Media Group Television and General Manager of its Orlando television operations, representing television; JC Campese, Vice President and Market Manager for Cox Media Group Orlando, and Roger Holler, founder and owner of MARC Media Group, representing radio; and Ralph Renzi, Chief Executive Officer of Newsmax Radio & Audio, as an associate member.
"Carolyn, Darren, JC, Roger, and Ralph each bring deep experience and a real passion for this industry, and we're proud to have them helping guide FAB forward," Lomagistro said.
The association also recognized Adib Eden, one of its longest-serving board members, as he concludes his tenure on the Executive Committee. FAB President and CEO Pat Roberts credited Eden's years of service and leadership for helping shape the organization.
Meanwhile, Lara Kunkler, who served as FAB Chair during what the association described as a transformative period, will transition to the role of Immediate Past Chair and continue serving on the Executive Committee.
Report: Video Podcasts Deliver Stronger Ad Results
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 22, 2026 | 2:42pm CT |
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Podcast campaigns running on video-enabled shows generated stronger audience response and conversion rates than audio-only podcasts during the first quarter of 2026, according to Magellan AI's latest Podcast Measurement Benchmark Report.
The report analyzed podcast advertising campaigns measured by Magellan AI between January 1 and March 31, 2026, examining response rates, conversions and listener behavior across multiple industries and podcast genres.
Among the key findings, video podcasts consistently outperformed RSS-only shows in both advertiser response and conversion metrics. The average global response rate for podcast advertising was 2.29%, meaning just over two percent of reached listeners visited an advertiser's website. Video podcasts posted a 2.49% response rate, compared to 1.39% for audio-only shows.
Host-read advertising also proved more effective than other ad formats. Host-read spots generated a 2.45% response rate, outperforming programmatic ads at 1.93% and produced ads at 1.51%. The report found that 87.4% of all listener responses occurred within 30 days of ad exposure.
On the conversion side, Magellan AI reported an average lead conversion rate of 9.74% and an average purchase conversion rate of 5.22%. Video podcasts delivered a lead conversion rate of 11.27%, significantly higher than the 6.42% recorded by RSS-only shows. However, purchase conversion rates showed less variation by podcast ranking, suggesting that audiences across show sizes can be equally likely to complete a transaction once they visit an advertiser's website.
The study also found that more than 80% of both lead and purchase conversions occur within seven days of ad exposure, highlighting the importance of short-term attribution windows when evaluating campaign performance.
For podcast promotion campaigns, the average new listener conversion rate was 2.55%, while the average repeat listener rate reached 59.4%. Business and Education podcasts were the most successful at attracting new listeners, while History podcasts posted the highest repeat-listener rate at 63.98%.
Video podcasts again led in audience acquisition, generating a 3.69% new-listener conversion rate compared to 1.70% for RSS-only shows. Mid-tier podcasts ranked between 501 and 3,000 delivered the strongest new-listener conversion performance, while long-tail shows ranked outside the top 3,000 posted the highest listener retention rates.
Magellan AI said the findings demonstrate that video-enabled podcasts, host-read advertising and strategically selected show rankings can significantly improve campaign effectiveness for advertisers and podcast publishers seeking stronger audience engagement and conversion outcomes.
BIA Names Michael Guerity VP of Market Intelligence
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 22, 2026 | 12:02pm CT |
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BIA Advisory Services has appointed Michael Guerity as Vice President of Market Intelligence & Strategic Communications, a newly created leadership post designed to strengthen the company's market forecasting, strategic insights and industry engagement efforts.
In the role, Guerity will oversee strategic communications, market positioning, research storytelling, content development and industry outreach. He will also help guide the development and application of BIA's U.S. local advertising forecasts, market analysis and strategic intelligence for media and advertising organizations.
Guerity brings more than two decades of experience across media, advertising, marketing, SaaS and business strategy. His career includes senior leadership roles at Cox Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group's Drive Auto division, where he focused on revenue growth through market intelligence, content strategy and digital innovation. Most recently, he served as Head of GTM Strategy & Marketing at Lightcast, leading growth initiatives that aligned communications, marketing, sales and customer success through data-driven and AI-enabled strategies.
"Mike brings a unique combination of media industry expertise, strategic communications leadership, digital innovation, and revenue growth strategy that aligns perfectly with BIA's mission," said BIA Advisory Services CEO Tom Buono. "As media and advertising continue to evolve, his experience will help our clients identify emerging opportunities, navigate industry change, and make more informed strategic decisions."
Buono added that Guerity's leadership will help BIA enhance the development and delivery of forecasting intelligence while leveraging artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to expand the value of its insights.
Working closely with BIA's forecasting and executive teams, Guerity will focus on delivering enhanced analytics through AI-enabled processes and identifying emerging trends that support the continued evolution of the company's local advertising forecasts.
"I've long respected BIA's reputation as one of the most trusted sources of market intelligence in the media industry," Guerity said. "The opportunity ahead for BIA is not simply to deliver more data, but to make our market intelligence more actionable, accessible, and valuable so clients can identify growth opportunities, make more informed decisions, and navigate the rapid changes shaping the future of local advertising."
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