Top Radio News

Townsquare Q2 Digital Growth Offsets Broadcast Decline

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, August 6, 2026 | 11:03am CT

Townsquare Media

Townsquare Media reported second quarter 2026 results that met its previously issued guidance, as accelerating digital advertising growth helped offset continued weakness in broadcast advertising. The company posted second-quarter net revenue of $115.4 million, essentially flat from a year earlier, while adjusted EBITDA totaled $24.8 million.

CEO Bill Wilson said the company's "Digital First Local Media Strategy" continued to gain traction, with digital advertising revenue increasing 11% year-over-year, up from 7% growth in the first quarter. He also highlighted the rapid expansion of Townsquare's Media Partnerships business, which now serves 16 partners across 41 additional markets and is expected to more than double its revenue in 2026. Digital operations accounted for 57% of Townsquare's first-half net revenue and 59% of segment profit.

For the quarter, Townsquare reported a net loss of $41.8 million, compared with net income of $2.0 million a year earlier. The company said the decline was largely driven by significant non-cash FCC license impairment charges, while adjusted net income improved slightly to $3.7 million. Broadcast advertising revenue fell 5.5%, while digital advertising revenue climbed 11%. Subscription Digital Marketing Solutions revenue declined 8.5%.

Looking ahead, Townsquare expects third-quarter 2026 net revenue between $108 million and $110 million, with adjusted EBITDA projected between $22.5 million and $23.5 million. The company reaffirmed its full-year guidance of $425 million to $431 million in net revenue and adjusted EBITDA of $87 million to $90 million. Its board also approved a quarterly cash dividend of $0.20 per share, payable November 2 to shareholders of record on October 26.

UF, Saga Form Seven-Year WRUF Sales Partnership

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, August 6, 2026 | 3:19pm CT

Saga Communications

The University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications and Saga Communications have entered into a seven-year Joint Sales Agreement and strategic partnership for WRUF-AM (ESPN 98.1/850 WRUF) and Country WRUF-FM (103.7 The Gator) in Gainesville, FL.

Effective September 1, Saga will market the advertising inventory for both stations while collaborating with the university on student education, professional development and media innovation initiatives.

The agreement extends beyond commercial sales, creating opportunities for students, faculty and broadcast professionals to work together on projects involving media sales, digital media, sports broadcasting, audience development, content strategy, internships and mentorships.

"This partnership reflects our commitment to preparing students for successful careers while strengthening the future of local media," said Hub Brown, Dean of the University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications. "By combining the University of Florida's educational mission with Saga Communications' industry leadership, we are creating new opportunities for students to learn alongside professionals, serve our community and help shape the future of broadcasting."

The University of Florida has owned and operated WRUF since 1928. WRUF-AM serves as the flagship station for the Florida Gators Radio Network, while 100,000-watt WRUF-FM airs a country music format throughout the Gainesville-Ocala market.

Saga Communications owns and operates WOGK-FM (K Country) and WYND-FM/WNDD-FM (WIND-FM) in the Gainesville-Ocala market. The company said the partnership aligns with its long-standing strategy of serving markets anchored by major universities.

"This collaboration reflects Saga's commitment to investing in our present and future by working with outstanding local media properties as well as investing in our next generation of media professionals," said Saga President and CEO Chris Forgy.

University officials said the agreement will provide advertisers with expanded marketing opportunities while giving students greater access to industry professionals and hands-on experience with one of the nation's leading broadcast companies. The Joint Sales Agreement runs through September 2033.

Cumulus Denies Reports of Podcast Network Shutdown

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, August 6, 2026 | 11:36am CT

Cumulus Podcast Network

Cumulus Media says reports claiming it eliminated the entire staff of the Cumulus Podcast Network are inaccurate, following a new round of layoffs affecting the company's broadcast, network and digital operations as it continues its financial restructuring.

In a statement, a Cumulus spokesperson said the company "made the difficult decision to eliminate certain roles as part of a broader organizational realignment," but emphasized that the Cumulus Podcast Network "is operating in full force," with dozens of employees continuing to support production, content acquisition, operations and monetization. The company added that it remains committed to its podcast network, as well as its podcasters, partners and advertisers.

The latest layoffs include Senior Vice President of Marketing and Podcasting Carolyn Chauncey, who had overseen the Cumulus Podcast Network's day-to-day operations, content acquisition, editorial and production since August 2024. Chauncey was also a founding member of the team that launched the podcast network and previously led marketing, audience development and creative services for Westwood One.

Also departing is Vice President of Podcast Operations and Production Jason "Jay" Soderberg, who managed the network's audio and video production. In a social media post, Soderberg acknowledged his exit, writing that he had received the familiar "good luck with your future endeavors" call.

The workforce reductions also extend beyond the podcast division. Reports indicate sales and programming positions have been eliminated in multiple markets, including Washington, DC, Columbia, SC, Mobile, AL and Shreveport, LA. Among the highest-profile departures are KNBR/San Francisco sports broadcaster and San Francisco 49ers play-by-play voice Greg Papa and co-host Greg Silver.

Podcasting has been one of Cumulus' stronger-performing businesses in recent years, helping offset declines in traditional broadcast revenue. While podcast revenue posted solid gains during 2025, company executives reported more modest growth during the first quarter of 2026 as Cumulus continues working toward its emergence from bankruptcy.

iHeart Philadelphia Promotes Daija Moore-Evans

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, August 6, 2026 | 11:24am CT

Daija Moore-Evans

iHeartMedia Philadelphia has promoted Daija Moore-Evans to Digital Content Manager, effective immediately. In her new role, she will oversee digital content strategy for the company's six-station Philadelphia cluster, leading audience growth and engagement across its music, talk and news brands through broadcast, digital and social media platforms.

Reporting to Senior Vice President of Programming Jeff Hurley, Moore-Evans will direct the cluster's digital content initiatives, including the development and execution of strategies designed to expand audience reach, strengthen brand engagement and support iHeartMedia's on-air and online presence.

"Daija has already made a tremendous impact on our team, and this promotion is well deserved," Hurley said. "Her creativity, work ethic, and vision make her the perfect person to lead our digital efforts into the future."

Moore-Evans began her broadcasting journey at Montgomery County Community College before continuing her studies at Temple University. She joined iHeartMedia Philadelphia in 2019 as a board operator and has steadily advanced through the organization, moving into an on-air role at WUSL (Power 99) while taking on increasing digital responsibilities. She has helped shape the social media presence and digital content strategy for both Power 99 and WDAS, leading to her promotion.

"I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunities I've had to grow with iHeartMedia Philadelphia," Moore-Evans said. "It's been an amazing journey from board operator to leading digital strategy, and I'm excited to continue working with such talented teams to connect with our audiences in innovative and meaningful ways."

Shawn Scheffler Named PD at Spirit FM Missouri

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, August 6, 2026 | 11:28am CT

Shawn Scheffler

Spirit FM (KCVO) in Camdenton, MO has promoted Shawn Scheffler to Program Director. Scheffler previously served as the station's Assistant Program Director.

Station Manager Jenn Pooler said Scheffler has spent the past year developing his programming skills while learning all aspects of station programming. She praised his commitment to the ministry and team, describing him as a servant leader who will help move Spirit FM forward in his new role.

"I'm honored to step into the role of Program Director at Spirit FM, and I'm excited to see how God continues to use this ministry to bring hope to listeners across Missouri," Scheffler said.

Spirit FM is part of the Northwestern Media network, a ministry of the University of Northwestern-St. Paul.

SiriusXM Names Jenny Tartikoff Communications Chief

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, August 6, 2026 | 11:10am CT

Jenny Tartikoff

SiriusXM has appointed Jenny Tartikoff as Senior Vice President and Head of Communications, effective August 10. She will report to President and Chief Content Officer Scott Greenstein and oversee the company's communications and public relations strategy, including promoting SiriusXM's content and business initiatives while advising senior leadership on major corporate developments.

Greenstein said Tartikoff's background across entertainment, streaming, podcasting and advertising makes her well-suited to help position SiriusXM as the premier destination for audio content and fandom. He said she will play a key role in advancing the company's communications strategy across its portfolio of audio businesses.

Tartikoff joins SiriusXM from Paramount Pictures, where she served as Executive Vice President of Global Communications. In that role, she led internal and external corporate communications, corporate social responsibility and awards strategy for the studio's live-action and animation divisions, while guiding communications through the industry's post-pandemic recovery and Paramount's evolving multi-platform release strategy.

Prior to Paramount, Tartikoff was Head of Content and Advertising Communications at Spotify. She also served as Senior Vice President of Global Communications for Universal Filmed Entertainment Group and was a Senior Vice President at Rubenstein, advising clients including Paramount Pictures, HBO, Sony, News Corporation and the New York Post. She began her career in broadcast journalism communications with NBC News and CBS News.

Hope Media Group Creates Chief Impact Officer Role

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, August 6, 2026 | 11:16am CT

Hope Media Group

Hope Media Group has named Nicholas "Nick" Skytland as its first Chief Impact Officer, a newly created executive leadership position designed to expand the ministry's reach across its growing portfolio of media platforms. Skytland will assume the role on August 17.

As a member of the organization's Executive Leadership Team, Skytland will oversee an integrated strategy spanning content, technology and marketing to strengthen audience engagement and enhance the overall listener and user experience. The new role is intended to translate Hope Media Group's mission into compelling content, scalable platforms and deeper connections with audiences.

Hope Media Group President and CEO Joe Paulo said adding Skytland to the leadership team will accelerate the organization's vision for innovation while helping develop new ways to reach more people with its mission. He praised Skytland's passion and leadership, saying the appointment will strengthen the ministry's efforts to inspire people to love Jesus, serve others and spread hope.

Skytland joins Hope Media Group after serving as Vice President of AI at Gloo, where he led product development, research and platform strategy. He also spent years in senior executive roles at NASA, overseeing early-stage technology development, organizational transformation, business development, strategic partnerships and innovation initiatives.

"I am honored to join Hope Media Group and contribute to a mission with a powerful legacy and an exciting future," Skytland said. "The opportunity to help reach and form people at scale is deeply compelling to me."

CRB Releases CRS360 Webinar on Contract Negotiations

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, August 6, 2026 | 3:13pm CT

CRS360

Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB) has released the latest installment of its CRS360 webinar series, "Perfectly Legal: How Air Talent Gains Leverage Before Sitting Down to Negotiate," now available for on-demand streaming.

The webinar features Denise Shackelford, founder of The Primacy Firm, legal counsel for CRB, and an associate professor in Middle Tennessee State University's Department of Recording Industry within the Scott Borchetta College of Media and Entertainment.

Originally presented as a workshop during Country Radio Seminar 2026, the session is designed to help on-air personalities approach employment contract negotiations with greater confidence and preparation.

Drawing on more than three decades of experience in the Nashville music industry, Shackelford offers practical guidance on understanding employment agreements, identifying negotiating leverage, recognizing key contract provisions and protecting long-term career interests. Before launching her entertainment law practice in 2010, she held positions with Arista Records and artist management executive Clarence Spalding.

The webinar is intended for air personalities at every stage of their careers, whether negotiating a first contract, seeking a renewal or evaluating a new opportunity. CRB said participants will gain actionable strategies to maximize their value before entering contract negotiations.

WABC Joins Spreaker Prime Publisher Program

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, August 6, 2026 | 3:05pm CT

WABC Radio and the Red Apple Podcast Network have joined Spreaker Prime, the premium publisher program from Spreaker, part of Triton Digital.

Spreaker Prime provides established podcast publishers with access to programmatic advertising, premium advertiser demand and dedicated publisher support designed to help grow podcast revenue. Spreaker serves as Triton Digital's podcast hosting, creation and monetization platform, offering tools for independent creators, broadcasters and podcast networks to publish, distribute and monetize their content.

"WABC is one of the most recognized names in American broadcasting, and their decision to join Prime reinforces what we're building the program to give established media brands the infrastructure and revenue tools to succeed in podcasting," said Sharon Taylor, Chief Revenue Officer at Triton Digital. "Advertisers continue to gravitate to premium audio content, and Spreaker provides the tools and products for podcasters to focus on producing the best shows possible."

Chad Lopez, President of Red Apple Media and WABC Radio, said the partnership supports the company's podcast growth strategy while maintaining the standards listeners expect.

"WABC has built its reputation on trust and reach across generations of New York listeners, and we want the Red Apple Podcast Network to reflect that same standard," Lopez said. "Joining Spreaker Prime gives us the monetization tools and dedicated support to grow our audio audience while maintaining the quality our listeners expect."

Cumulus Cuts Staff in Multi-Market Layoff Round

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, August 5, 2026 | 4:36pm CT

Cumulus Media

Cumulus Media has enacted a new round of layoffs affecting air talent, programmers and management across multiple markets as the company continues its financial restructuring. The company has not disclosed how many employees were impacted, but departures confirmed through media reports span stations in California, Michigan, Arkansas, South Carolina, Alabama, Louisiana, Illinois and New York, with additional exits expected to emerge in the coming days.

Among the most prominent departures are longtime KNBR San Francisco midday hosts Greg Papa and Greg Silver. Papa, who also serves as the play-by-play voice of the NFL's San Francisco 49ers, has been with KNBR since 2019 after previously hosting at KGMZ-FM. Silver joined KNBR in 2023 as a producer before moving to middays last November.

Other confirmed exits include Dave Fuller, afternoon host at WDVD Detroit; McConnell Adams, Program Director of KURB and KLAL in Little Rock; Leo "LB" Baldwin, Program Director of WOMG and WTCB in the Columbia, SC market; and Cami Marlowe, Program Director and afternoon host at WABD Mobile.

Also out are Anthony "Big Ant" Simmons, Program Director at KMJJ and KRMD-FM in Shreveport; Wes Jordan, Production Director for the Bloomington/Peoria cluster and afternoon host at WZPW; Jordan Lass, Assistant Program Director for WHTS and WKLQ in Grand Rapids and afternoon host at WLAV; and Jay Soderberg, Vice President of Digital Programming Operations, Podcasts and Digital Operations in New York.

The layoffs come as Cumulus continues to await FCC approval to complete its Chapter 11 restructuring. The company's court-approved plan would eliminate approximately $592 million in debt, reduce annual cash interest expense by about $49 million and transfer ownership to its lenders.

Cumulus has not commented publicly on the reductions or announced programming plans for the affected stations. Several vacancies, including morning and programming leadership positions, are expected to require replacement in the coming weeks.

Magnum to Acquire Sparta-Tomah Radio Outlets

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, August 5, 2026 | 3:04pm CT

Magnum Media

Magnum Communications has reached an agreement to acquire four western Wisconsin radio outlets from Sparta-Tomah Broadcasting Co., with an application for the sale to be filed with the FCC.

The transaction includes Country WCOW-FM (97.1), News/Talk WKLJ-AM (1290), translator W271CM (102.1), all licensed to Sparta, and WFBZ-FM (105.5), licensed to Trempealeau. Sparta-Tomah Broadcasting said the stations represent the company's remaining media holdings.

WCOW-FM is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year and has been named Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Small Market Station of the Year seven times. In 2025, the station's Ben & Arnie morning show earned the Country Music Association's Best Small Market Personality of the Year award.

Magnum Communications is part of Wisconsin-based Magnum Media, which operates six full-power AM stations, 14 full-power FM stations and 18 FM translators across Wisconsin, eastern Minnesota and northern Illinois.

Reid Magnum noted the acquisition has personal significance for his family. "In June, when my Dad was inducted into the Wisconsin Broadcasters Hall of Fame, he spoke in the video about WCOW being the very first radio station he was ever in at age 4," Magnum said. "His uncle, Len DeSomer, was an announcer at WCOW in 1967. On top of that, my Mom and Dad sat with Pink Rice at the first Wisconsin Broadcasters Association dinner they attended in 1990."

Kalil & Co., Inc. is serving as the exclusive broker for the transaction.

97 Rock Adds Peck, Sylvester to Bills Coverage

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, August 5, 2026 | 11:05am CT

Paul Peck and Kevin Sylvester

As Buffalo Bills football returns to WGRF-FM (97 Rock), the station is expanding its game day coverage with the addition of veteran Buffalo sportscasters Paul Peck and Kevin Sylvester. The pair will host the first two hours of the station's pregame coverage, beginning four hours before kickoff each week.

They will be followed by NFL Draft and Bills analyst Chris Trapasso and former Bills center Mitch Morse, giving listeners four hours of pregame analysis, commentary and entertainment leading into every Bills game.

The Bills will play their first full game at the new Highmark Stadium during a preseason matchup against the Carolina Panthers on August 15. Buffalo opens the regular season on September 13 with a Sunday Night Football road game against the Houston Texans before hosting the Detroit Lions in its home opener on Thursday Night Football.

"Together, Paul Peck and Kevin Sylvester bring decades of experience covering the teams, players, and moments that have defined Buffalo sports," said 97 Rock Program Director Joe Russo. "Their deep local roots, combined with their passion for entertaining fans, make them the perfect team to help launch a new era of Bills coverage on 97 Rock."

Peck brings more than 30 years of Buffalo sports broadcasting experience, including 24 years at WIVB-TV, where he served as the station's primary Bills beat reporter for 15 seasons and covered all four of the team's Super Bowl appearances. He currently serves as the play-by-play voice for University at Buffalo football and basketball. Peck also previously worked on 97 Rock's Bills broadcasts from 1998 to 2008.

Sylvester is well known to Buffalo fans through his work with the Buffalo Sabres as a television host and analyst on MSG Network, along with his radio hosting and reporting. Earlier in his career, he was part of the Bills Radio Network, hosting game day, pregame, halftime and postgame programming, as well as weekly shows featuring Hall of Fame coach Marv Levy and former Bills General Manager John Butler.

WWNN Launches Weekend Business Reports

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, August 5, 2026 | 4:40pm CT

Worldwide News Network (WWNN)

Worldwide News Network (WWNN) has expanded its programming lineup with the launch of WWNN Weekend Business Reports, a new weekend feature focused on business, financial markets and the economy. The reports debuted Saturday, August 1, on Hubbard's WTOP in Washington, DC, becoming the first affiliate to carry the new service.

Designed to go beyond traditional market recaps, the reports examine the industries and economic sectors shaping the future, including automotive, technology and entertainment, while highlighting emerging companies and innovation trends.

The reports are anchored and produced by veteran business journalists John Terrett and Jake Novak. Terrett previously served as a New York correspondent for the BBC and CNBC, including nearly eight years reporting from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Novak brings more than 25 years of broadcast experience covering financial markets, economics and geopolitics.

"Our listeners want and need insightful financial and business news they can trust, and they depend on us to deliver it every day of the week," said Julia Ziegler, Director of News and Programming at WTOP. "As the industry has contracted over the last few years, it has left a void. It is exciting to work with a company like WWNN that understands the importance of providing quality reporting seven days of the week."

Lee Harris, WWNN's Senior Vice President of News & Programming, said the service is intended to provide a fresh approach to weekend business coverage.

"WWNN is not simply filling the gap left by the demise of the CBS Radio Network," Harris said. "We're building something stronger and more relevant for today's audience. John and Jake bring extraordinary experience and credibility, and they know how to make complicated financial and economic stories understandable, compelling and actionable."

Family Life to Acquire WOGI-FM for $1 Million

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, August 5, 2026 | 4:48pm CT

Family Life Radio

Family Life has reached an agreement to acquire Country WOGI-FM (104.3) in Moon Township, PA, and Pittsburgh translator W288BO (105.5) from Forever Media for $1 million. WOGI-FM operates with 13,000 watts and serves the greater Pittsburgh area. The acquisition will add the station and its FM translator to Family Life's growing broadcast portfolio.

Family Life is led by Rick Snavely, while Forever Media is headed by Lynn Deppen.

The transaction was brokered by Michael J. Bergner of Bergner & Co., who served as the exclusive broker for the sale.

Shalom South Florida Marks 40 Years on the Air

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, August 5, 2026 | 4:53pm CT

Roni

Shalom South Florida, one of the nation's longest-running Jewish radio programs, will celebrate its 40th anniversary with special broadcasts on Sunday, August 9 and August 16. Hosted by Roni since its debut in August 1986, the weekly program airs Sundays from 9:30-11am and features Israeli, Chassidic and Yiddish music, along with interviews, news, comedy, contests and programming tailored to South Florida's Jewish community.

The anniversary celebration will culminate with the show's extended 2,000th episode on August 16. The special broadcast will include prize giveaways, tickets, gift certificates and a countdown of the program's most-requested Jewish songs, including the first song played during Roni's inaugural broadcast four decades ago.

Roni, who holds a master's degree in mass communication from Florida International University, is recognized as Florida's longest-running Jewish radio host and one of the state's longest-serving radio personalities. A South Florida resident for 48 years, he also maintains one of the world's largest collections of Jewish music.

"What a privilege it has been to unite the Jewish community and share music and culture every Sunday for four decades," Roni said. "I never imagined we would still be going strong and gaining in popularity forty years later."

Shalom South Florida airs on the Palm Beach Gardens-based True Oldies Channel, heard on AM 1420 and 1450, as well as FM translators at 95.3, 95.9 and 106.9, and is also available worldwide via streaming, radio apps and podcast.

Entravision Expands AI Co-Hosted Show to Five Markets

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, August 5, 2026 | 2:52pm CT

Geraldine ''GeeGee'' Guzman and Coyotec

Entravision has expanded its AI-powered radio show featuring Geraldine "GeeGee" Guzman and Coyotec, the industry's first Latino AI radio personality, to five additional markets across its Fuego Network.

The multi-market rollout began Monday, August 3, bringing the duo's bilingual, culture-focused program to Fuego stations in Sacramento, Las Vegas, Modesto, Palm Springs and McAllen. The expansion builds on the success of Al Aire y Sin Permiso on Jose 97.5 FM in Los Angeles, where the show attracted audience growth, particularly among younger Hispanic male listeners.

To better match the Fuego Network's Latin Urban and Musica Mexicana format, the syndicated version incorporates more English-language content while maintaining the bilingual style that reflects the everyday conversations of bicultural Latino audiences.

The program now airs on KHHM-FM (Fuego 101.9) in Sacramento, KRRN-FM (Fuego 92.7) in Las Vegas, KCVR-FM (Fuego 98.9) in Modesto, KPST-FM (Fuego 103.5) in Palm Springs, and KKPS-FM (Fuego 99.5) in McAllen.

"This expansion is a prime example of how content innovation drives our industry forward," said Eduardo Maytorena, President of Audio. "GeeGee and Coyotec represent the future of multi-market audio -- delivering authentic culture, seamless versatility, and unmatched value for our brand partners."

LeaAnna Hernandez, Entravision's Executive Vice President of AI Strategy, said the project demonstrates how AI can complement on-air talent while adapting naturally across languages and audiences.

For Guzman, the move to the Fuego Network reflects the way many younger Latino listeners communicate. "So many of us grew up bouncing between English and Spanish without even thinking twice about it," she said. "Getting to bring that same energy to Fuego feels like a blessing."

Throwback Nation Adds Three Connoisseur Affiliates

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, August 5, 2026 | 11:11am CT

Throwback Nation with Tony Lorino

Throwback Nation with Tony Lorino has expanded its national reach with the addition of three Connoisseur Media stations through its syndication partner, Skyview Networks. The nightly program launched Monday on KRBI-FM in Mankato, MN, KYTC-FM in Mason City, IA, and KLAK-FM in Sherman, TX. All three stations will air the show weeknights.

"We're thrilled to be expanding with Connoisseur!" said Tony Lorino, Founder and CEO of Throwback Brands and host of Throwback Nation. "We share their belief that radio connects with listeners unlike any other traditional medium, and we are thrilled to be a part of their plan to re-engage and re-energize these brands. Big thanks to Keith Dakin and the entire Connoisseur content development team."

Andrew Kalb, Chief Operating Officer of Skyview Networks, said the latest additions continue the program's steady national growth. "It's exciting to see Throwback Nation with Tony Lorino continue to expand across the country," Kalb said. "These three new Connoisseur affiliates bring even more engaged, loyal listeners to the network. Each new station creates additional opportunities for advertisers to connect with engaged listeners, and we're proud to be part of the show's continued success."