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2026 NAB Marconi Radio Award Finalists Announced


Marconi Radio Awards
Marconi Radio Awards

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has announced the finalists for the 2026 NAB Marconi Radio Awards during a livestreamed presentation hosted by Toby Knapp and Chilli Amar, co-hosts of "Toby + Chilli in the Morning" on 97.1 WASH-FM in Washington, DC.

The winners of the 2026 NAB Marconi Radio Awards will be announced during a special dinner program on Tuesday, October 20, at the Edison Ballroom in New York City, the evening before NAB Show New York 2026 begins.

This year's NAB Marconi Radio Award finalists:

Legendary Station of the Year

  • KFI-AM, Los Angeles, CA 
  • WCBS-FM, New York, NY 
  • WIVK-FM, Knoxville, TN 
  • WJR-AM, Detroit, MI 
  • WLW-AM, Cincinnati, OH 
Legendary Radio Manager of the Year
  • Joey Cummings, South Seas Broadcasting, Pago Pago, AS 
  • Tery Garras, KXLY-FM, Spokane, WA 
  • Julie Koehn, WLEN-FM, Adrian, MI 
  • Mitch Rosen, WSCR-AM, Chicago, IL 
  • David Yadgaroff, Audacy, Philadelphia, PA 
Network/Syndicated Personality of the Year
  • Anna & Raven, WEZN-FM, Cumulus, Metro Fairfield, CT 
  • El Free Guey Show, TelevisaUnivision, Houston, TX 
  • Ryan Fox, Westwood One, Dallas, TX 
  • Ryan Seacrest, Premiere Radio Networks, Inc., Los Angeles, CA 
  • The Bob & Sheri Show, WKQC-FM, Beasley, Charlotte, NC 
Major Market Personality of the Year
  • The Andie Summers Show, WXTU-FM, Philadelphia, PA 
  • Ellen K, KOST-FM, Los Angeles, CA 
  • Patty Jackson, WDAS-FM, Philadelphia, PA 
  • Karson and Kennedy, WBMX-FM, Boston, MA 
  • Riggs, Katelyn & Erica, KKBQ-FM, Houston, TX 
Large Market Personality of the Year
  • Paul Castronovo, WBGG-FM, Miami, FL 
  • Rebecca Cressman, KSFI-FM, Salt Lake City, UT 
  • Karen Dalessandro, KSLX-FM, Phoenix, AZ 
  • Heather & Matty, WWLI-FM, Providence, RI 
  • Justin, Scott and Spiegel, WIYY-FM, Baltimore, MD 
Medium Market Personality of the Year
  • The Blake Show with Kelly and Todd, WMGX-FM, Portland, ME 
  • Buzz Jackson, KIIM-FM, Tucson, AZ 
  • Joe & Tina Mornings, WZSR-FM, Crystal Lake, IL 
  • Ron Olson and Karen Perrin, WRVR-FM, Memphis, TN 
  • Ben Davis & Kelly K, WDJX-FM, Louisville, KY 
Small Market Personality of the Year
  • The Cosmo & Kat Show, KTXY-FM, Columbia, MO 
  • Chris Lawrence, WCHS-AM, Charleston, WV 
  • Ian Rambo, KQRQ-FM, Rapid City, SD 
  • The Ryan Smetzer Show, WIKZ-FM, Hagerstown, MD 
  • Stafford and Frigo, KDXY-FM, Jonesboro, AR 
Major Market Station of the Year
  • WBEB-FM, Philadelphia, PA 
  • WBMX-FM, Boston, MA 
  • WCBS-FM, New York, NY 
  • WSCR-AM, Chicago, IL 
  • WTMX-FM, Chicago, IL 
Large Market Station of the Year
  • KTMY-FM, Saint Paul, MN 
  • WALK-FM, Long Island, NY 
  • WHQG-FM, Milwaukee, WI 
  • WWRM-FM, Tampa, FL 
  • WYXB-FM, Indianapolis, IN 
Medium Market Station of the Year
  • WBTJ-FM, Richmond, VA 
  • WHBC-AM, Canton, OH 
  • WMFS-FM, Memphis, TN 
  • WPOR-FM, Portland, ME 
  • WYCT-FM, Pensacola, FL 
Small Market Station of the Year
  • KBHP-FM, Bemidji, MN 
  • KMMX-FM, Lubbock, TX 
  • KNDE-FM, College Station, TX 
  • WIOG-FM, Saginaw, MI 
  • WYOT-FM, Rochelle, IL 
AC Station of the Year
  • KBIG-FM, Los Angeles, CA 
  • KRWM-FM, Seattle, WA 
  • KSTP-FM, Minneapolis-Saint Paul, MN 
  • KUIC-FM, San Francisco, CA 
  • WKJY-FM, Long Island, NY 
Best Radio Podcast of the Year
  • "Flying Through Fog: A Podcast for PANS/PANDAS Caregivers," WTRC-FM, South Bend, IN 
  • "Purple Daily," KSTP-AM, Saint Paul, MN 
  • "Supporting Sobriety," WIBC-FM, Indianapolis, IN 
  • "The Install with Greg Cosell," WGFX-FM, Nashville, TN 
  • "Uinta Triangle," KSL-FM, Salt Lake City, UT 
CHR Station of the Year
  • KNDE-FM, College Station, TX 
  • KQMV-FM, Seattle, WA 
  • KRBE-FM, Houston, TX 
  • KTXY-FM, Columbia, MO 
  • WBLI-FM, Long Island, NY 
Classic Hits Station of the Year
  • KONO-FM, San Antonio, TX 
  • KOOL-FM, Phoenix, AZ 
  • WCBS-FM, New York, NY 
  • WGTZ-FM, Dayton, OH 
  • WSRV-FM, Atlanta, GA 
College Station of the Year
  • WHPC-FM, Nassau Community College, Garden City, NY 
  • WMSC-FM, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ 
  • WOLF Radio, University of West Georgia, Carrollton, GA 
  • WRRC-FM, Rider University, Lawrenceville, NJ 
  • WSOU-FM, Seton Hall University, South Orange, NJ 
Country Station of the Year
  • KCLR-FM, Columbia, MO 
  • KFGE-FM, Lincoln, NE 
  • KIKV-FM, Alexandria, MN 
  • KKBQ-FM, Houston, TX 
  • WUSY-FM, Chattanooga, TN 
News/Talk Station of the Year
  • KFI-AM, Los Angeles, CA 
  • KXL-FM, Portland, OR 
  • WHPT-FM, Tampa, FL 
  • WLW-AM, Cincinnati, OH 
  • WSB-AM, Atlanta, GA 
Religious Station of the Year
  • WFMV-AM, Columbia, SC 
  • WGTS-FM, Washington, DC 
  • WJOU-FM, Huntsville, AL 
  • WLVU-FM, Nashville, TN 
  • WMCA-AM, New York, NY 
Rock Station of the Year
  • WIIL-FM, Chicago, IL 
  • WIYY-FM, Baltimore, MD 
  • WNCX-FM, Cleveland, OH 
  • WPLR-FM, New Haven, CT 
  • WXTB-FM, Tampa, FL 
Spanish Language Station of the Year
  • KOVE-FM, Houston, TX 
  • WAMR-FM, Miami, FL 
  • WLZL-FM, Washington, DC 
  • WZTU-FM, Miami, FL 
Sports Station of the Year
  • KTCK-FM, Dallas, TX 
  • WEEI-FM, Boston, MA 
  • WGFX-FM, Nashville, TN 
  • WIP-FM, Philadelphia, PA 
  • WJOX-FM, Birmingham, AL 
Urban Station of the Year
  • WCFB-FM, Orlando, FL 
  • WDAS-FM, Philadelphia, PA 
  • WDZZ-FM, Flint, MI 
  • WEDR-FM, Miami, FL 
  • WHQT-FM, Miami, FL 

Known as "radio's biggest night," the annual event brings together broadcasters from across the country to celebrate excellence in radio and recognize the year's outstanding stations, personalities, podcasts and industry leaders. Tickets, tables and sponsorship opportunities are now available.

K-LOVE Names Andrew Lambeth as Marketing Chief


Andrew Lambeth
Andrew Lambeth

K-LOVE Inc., parent company of the K-LOVE and Air1 Christian radio networks, has named Andrew Lambeth as its new Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, effective September 1. Lambeth will join the ministry's Leadership Team and oversee its communications, creative and marketing departments. He joins K-LOVE from Centricity Music, where he most recently served as Co-General Manager and Senior Vice President of Marketing.

During more than a decade at Centricity, Lambeth helped guide marketing campaigns for artists including Lauren Daigle, Katy Nichole and Jordan Feliz, contributing to multiple Billboard No. 1 hits as well as gold and platinum-certified releases.

"I've spent my entire career inside Christian music because I believe these songs and artists do something special," Lambeth said. "K-LOVE is where many of these songs and stories meet the most people, and I'm honored to join K-LOVE's excellent team in working to inspire people to move closer to Jesus."

K-LOVE CEO Tom Stultz said Lambeth's industry experience and strategic vision make him well suited for the role. "Andrew is an industry leader who brings a brilliant strategic focus to this Ministry," Stultz said. "His inside knowledge of the Christian music industry along with his many established contacts position him to make meaningful contributions to this Ministry quickly and in ways that are sustainable for years to come."

Audacy: Trusted Podcast Hosts Drive Holiday Sales


Audacy Insights
Audacy Insights

As brands prepare for the 2026 holiday shopping season, a new Audacy Insights report argues that trusted podcast hosts have become one of the most influential factors in driving consumer purchase decisions, particularly as shoppers begin researching gifts earlier and rely more heavily on recommendations.

According to the report, today's consumers are taking a more deliberate approach to holiday shopping, comparing retailers, searching for the best prices and increasingly using artificial intelligence to research products and generate gift ideas. Audacy says that longer consideration periods make trusted recommendations more valuable when shoppers are ready to make a purchase.

The company points to podcast creators as uniquely positioned to influence buying decisions because of the strong relationships they build with their audiences. Rather than delivering traditional advertisements, podcast hosts often integrate sponsored products into gift guides, wish lists and personal recommendations that feel authentic to listeners.

Audacy cites research showing that 64% of heavy podcast listeners follow podcast host recommendations for products and services while shopping. The report also notes that 27% of podcast listeners say they engage more with their favorite shows during the holiday season, giving advertisers continued access to audiences throughout the busiest shopping weeks.

The report also highlights the role of emotion in holiday marketing, noting that familiar voices and storytelling can create stronger consumer connections than conventional display advertising. Audacy says emotionally driven campaigns can improve brand perception and cites research indicating that emotional advertising can generate an 8.2% increase in consumer action.

The report concludes that successful holiday campaigns are built well before the shopping season begins through long-term partnerships with podcast hosts, allowing brands to establish authentic connections before consumers reach the final stages of their purchasing decisions.

Read the Audacy Insights post here.

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Pattison Media Adopts Quu Visual Radio Platform


Quu
Quu

Pattison Media has partnered with Quu Inc. to bring visual radio technology to 39 of its stations, enabling programming and advertising content to appear on compatible vehicle dashboards and online audio streams.

The agreement expands Pattison Media's digital capabilities by adding Quu's patented visual messaging platform, which displays song information, station branding, promotions and advertiser messages alongside the audio experience. The company said the technology creates new advertising inventory while enhancing listener engagement both in connected vehicles and through streaming platforms.

"We're committed to delivering audio and digital solutions that create greater value for our audiences and clients," said Rod Schween, President of Pattison Media. "Quu's visual messaging strengthens our radio offering while complementing the other innovation initiatives underway across our business, like Validate and Resonate. This agreement with Quu is another way Pattison Media is investing in the future of radio."

Quu CEO Steve Newberry said the partnership reflects the growing importance of visual engagement as radio listening expands beyond traditional receivers.

"Radio is no longer just an audio experience. As more listening happens in connected vehicles and through digital streams, broadcasters have new opportunities to engage audiences visually," Newberry said. "We're proud to partner with Pattison Media and put every screen to work for its stations."

Pattison Media is one of Canada's largest privately owned Western-based radio and television broadcasters.

Jack Abernethy to Chair BFOA Golf Tournament


Jack Abernethy
Jack Abernethy

Jack Abernethy, Chief Executive Officer of FOX Television Stations, has been named Chair of the Broadcasters Foundation of America's 2026 Celebrity Golf Tournament, scheduled for Monday, September 14, at Siwanoy Country Club in Bronxville, NY.

The annual tournament is the Foundation's second-largest fundraiser, bringing together leaders from broadcasting, entertainment and sports to raise money for the BFOA's mission of providing financial assistance to radio and television professionals experiencing acute hardship due to serious illness or natural disasters.

"The BFOA Celebrity Golf Tournament is one of the industry's signature events," Abernethy said. "It offers a unique opportunity to play one of the region's premier courses while spending the day with colleagues, industry leaders, and celebrities, all in support of a charity that provides a vital lifeline to our fellow broadcasters when they need it most."

Tournament proceeds will directly support the Foundation's charitable programs, which provide aid to broadcasters facing unexpected financial crises.

"For twenty-eight years, the BFOA Celebrity Golf Tournament has brought our industry together for a day of camaraderie, competition, and compassion," said BFOA President Tim McCarthy. "We're grateful to have Jack's leadership as Chair this year. His commitment to our mission will help make this another outstanding event while raising critical funds to assist broadcasters facing extraordinary challenges."

Edison: Radio Dominates Ad-Supported Audio Reach


Cumulus Media | Westwood One
Cumulus Media | Westwood One

A new analysis of Edison Research's Q2 2026 "Share of Ear" study concludes that AM/FM radio continues to dominate ad-supported audio listening, while challenging common perceptions about Spotify's advertising reach and audience demographics.

The findings, highlighted in a new Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group blog by Chief Insights Officer Pierre Bouvard, show that 78% of all time spent with Spotify occurs on its ad-free subscription tier, leaving only 22% of listening available to advertisers.

According to the report, marketers and media agencies significantly overestimate Spotify's advertising reach. While many believe Spotify commands a 25% share of the audio audience, Edison found its ad-supported service accounts for just a 6% share of ad-supported audio, compared with AM/FM radio's 62%.

The study also found that Spotify's ad-supported audience differs sharply from its subscription audience. Ad-supported users are more likely to have household incomes below $50,000, less likely to work full-time and less likely to have completed at least four years of college. By contrast, Spotify's ad-free subscribers tend to be more affluent and better educated.

The report argues that these differences can lead advertisers to misjudge the platform's audience. An Advertiser Perceptions survey cited in the analysis found agencies and marketers perceive Spotify and Pandora together to hold a 41% share of audio listening, while estimating AM/FM radio at just 26%. Edison data, however, places AM/FM radio's actual ad-supported audio share at 62%.

The research also emphasizes radio's role in campaign reach. Digital audio platforms-including Spotify, Pandora and podcasts-reach 32% of Americans on a typical day. Adding AM/FM radio increases that reach to 74%, according to the study. v In the car, AM/FM radio remains the dominant ad-supported audio platform with an 82% share overall and a 75% share among adults ages 18-34.

While radio continues to lead, the study found podcast listening is growing. After holding steady at a 19% share of ad-supported audio for three years, podcasts increased to a 22% share among adults 18 and older in the second quarter of 2026.

The quarterly "Share of Ear" study, now in its 11th year, surveys approximately 4,000 Americans annually to measure daily audio consumption across platforms.

Read the entire blog post here.

Seven Mountains Debuts 98 Jamz in Bowling Green


98 Jamz in Bowling Green
98 Jamz in Bowling Green

Seven Mountains Media has launched a new Classic Hip-Hop and R&B outlet in Bowling Green, KY, flipping its former Point Rock format to 98 Jamz, branded as "Straight Throwbacks." Airing on 98.1, 98.3 and 102.7 FM, the new station features Hip-Hop, R&B and Rap hits spanning the past three decades.

The lineup is anchored by Bowling Green native Shawn "Big Hamp" Hampton, who hosts weekdays from 10am-3pm. The new format also features Compass Media Networks' DeDe in the Morning, The Baka Boys in afternoon drive, and R-Dub's Weekday Slow Jamz nightly from 10pm-midnight. Sunday Night Slow Jams also moves to 98 Jamz from sister station WUHU 107.

While the Point rock brand has been retired, Seven Mountains Media says several listener-friendly programming elements will remain. The station will continue its "2-Minute Promise," limiting commercial breaks to no more than two minutes outside syndicated programming, while the former Commercial-Free Music Hour shifts to noon as the new "60 Minute Flex."

The company acknowledged longtime Point listeners may be disappointed by the change but noted that sister 105.3 The Goat will continue serving rock fans, including carrying The Local Show on Thursday evenings along with personalities Dave & Mahoney, Andy Morgan and Axe.

Focus on the Family Selects ARC Software


ARC Software
ARC Software

ARC Software announced that Focus on the Family has selected its affiliate relationship management platform to support affiliate research and ongoing station maintenance across the organization's broadcast network.

The implementation will allow Focus on the Family to centralize affiliate research, maintain station and contact information, streamline contract workflows and strengthen long-term relationships with its affiliate stations. ARC Software said its platform provides real-time data and connected tools that give users a single, up-to-date view of affiliate activity.

"ARC has been an amazing tool to work with," said Joel M., Director of Broadcast and Affiliate Operations at Focus on the Family. "There are so many components that would need to be built into a CRM for it to equal the capability of ARC. From affiliate coverage maps to Nielsen integration, the tool has been powerful and allowed us to wisely assess our media spend."

Jason Bailey, Founder and CEO of ARC Software, said the company is pleased to add Focus on the Family to its client roster.

"We are honored to welcome Focus on the Family to ARC Software," Bailey said. "ARC brings affiliate research, CRM, contract automation and a nationwide station database together in one platform. We look forward to giving their team the real-time affiliate intelligence and connected workflows they need to strengthen relationships, maintain accurate information and operate efficiently."

ARC Software's platform combines affiliate research, customer relationship management, agreement management, digital signatures and relationship maintenance into a single system designed to reduce manual processes while improving visibility and accountability across affiliate operations.

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Howard Stern Fans Threaten SiriusXM Boycott


Howard Stern
Howard Stern

Howard Stern is facing growing backlash from longtime listeners after reports that The Howard Stern Show will reduce its live schedule to one new three-hour episode per week this fall, prompting some fans to say they are canceling their SiriusXM subscriptions.

According to media reports, including The Sun, the new format will debut after the show's annual summer hiatus, replacing its current schedule of multiple live broadcasts each week with a single weekly program supplemented by archived content.

The programming changes reportedly coincide with a significant downsizing of the show's staff. Reports indicate that about a dozen employees were laid off as part of the restructuring, with several longtime contributors confirming their departures on social media.

Reaction from fans has been swift, with many taking to X and Reddit to criticize the reduced schedule and question the value of maintaining a SiriusXM subscription for one live show each week. While some listeners said they had already canceled subscriptions they had held for years, neither Howard Stern nor SiriusXM has released any data indicating how many subscribers, if any, have actually canceled in response to the changes.

Stern joined Sirius Satellite Radio in 2006 under a landmark contract after years in terrestrial radio. Over time, his live schedule gradually decreased from five weekly broadcasts during his terrestrial radio years to four and then three shows per week on SiriusXM.

The reported changes come less than a year after Stern signed a three-year contract extension with SiriusXM that keeps him on the platform through 2028. At the time, Stern said the new agreement would allow him to continue broadcasting while giving him "more free time."

Neither SiriusXM nor Stern has publicly detailed the reported new programming format or commented on the cancellation threats circulating on social media.

Surfer Network Names Kellogg SVP of Strategy


Matt Kellogg
Matt Kellogg

Surfer Network has appointed digital audio executive Matt Kellogg as Senior Vice President of North American Sales Strategy, bolstering its leadership team as the company expands its streaming, podcasting and audio advertising business.

In the newly created role, Kellogg will oversee strategic sales initiatives across North America, with responsibility for driving revenue growth, expanding partnerships and strengthening Surfer Network's technology and monetization platform for broadcasters, podcasters, publishers and advertisers.

Kellogg joins the company from SoundStack, where he served as Vice President of Sales & Business Development. He brings more than 20 years of experience in streaming audio, podcasting, advertising technology and enterprise business development.

"Surfer Network has established itself as a leader in streaming, podcasting, and monetization, serving broadcasters, publishers, advertisers, and media partners across North America," said Justin Diller, Chief Operating Officer of Surfer Network. "As we continue to innovate, expand our capabilities, and grow our premium advertising marketplace, Matt's proven ability to build strategic partnerships and scale commercial organizations makes him the ideal leader to help drive our next phase of growth."

Throughout his career, Kellogg has worked with major broadcasters and media organizations, specializing in podcast content management systems, streaming content delivery infrastructure and advertising technology.

"Surfer Network has built an extraordinary business and I'm excited to join the company at such a pivotal moment," Kellogg said. "The team has created a powerful combination of streaming, podcasting, monetization, and AI-driven solutions that are solving real challenges across the digital ecosystem. I look forward to helping accelerate the company's growth, deepen partner relationships, and expand the impact of the platform across North America."

Texas Radio Hall Names 2026 Induction Nominees


Texas Radio Hall of Fame (TRHOF)
Texas Radio Hall of Fame (TRHOF)

The Texas Radio Hall of Fame (TRHOF) has announced the 50 nominees for its 2026 induction class, with voting now open to eligible Hall of Fame members through August 10. The final ballot was selected from more than 160 broadcast professionals with ties to Texas radio who were nominated for consideration. Voting members will choose 20 inductees, who will be honored during the TRHOF Annual Induction Ceremony on November 7 at the Texas Broadcast Museum in Kilgore, TX.

TRHOF Executive Director Doug Harris said this year's nomination process was especially strong, driven in part by the addition of two newer recognition categories.

"Our 'Small Markets, Big Voices' outreach clearly hit home with those who fit that description as well as their fans," said Harris, a 2011 Hall of Fame inductee. "For many of these broadcasters, this is their first exposure to Hall of Fame consideration and we welcome their involvement."

The Hall also continues its Lone Star Legacies category, introduced in 2025, which recognizes influential figures in Texas radio history posthumously.

"Our 2026 ballot is a 'great read' because it spotlights the amazing journeys of broadcasters from markets big and small and touches virtually every job description in our industry that connects to the on-air product," Harris added.

The 2026 nominees, listed alphabetically, are:

  • Doug Abernethy
  • Brenda Adriance Fox
  • David Anderson
  • Brad Austin
  • Lisa "Lisa Lisa" Bonanni
  • Bill Bradford
  • Raul Brindis
  • Bruce "Jim Edwards" Buchanan
  • John Butler
  • Jay Cresswell
  • Dave E. Crockett
  • Diane Day
  • Anna de Haro
  • Paris Eley
  • John Frost
  • Rex Gabriel
  • Jimmy "JD" Gonzalez
  • Ric Gonzales
  • Mark Grubbs
  • John L. Hanson
  • Frank Hicks
  • JoJo and Patches (James Paczkowski and JoJo Cerda)
  • Sam Jones
  • Joyce King
  • Kevin Kline
  • Tim McDermott
  • Charlie McGregor
  • Hank Moore
  • John "The Lama" Oakes
  • Ray Odom
  • Mona Parker
  • Phil Parr
  • Dave "Stone" Pinkston
  • Eric Raines
  • Tom Richards
  • Clyde "Kooter" Roberson
  • Chrissie Roberts
  • Woody Roberts
  • Melchor "Mel" Rodriguez
  • JD Rose
  • Buzz Russell
  • Nathan Safir
  • Gary Saunders
  • Jack Sellmeyer
  • Dr. J. Thomas Smith
  • Ted Stecker
  • Gary Stelly
  • Gary "Blue Eyes" Walker
  • Pam Wells
  • Scott West
  • Barry Wolverton

Information about the Hall's annual Radio Reunion and Induction Weekend as well as voting membership is available through the Texas Radio Hall of Fame website. Eligible members may still join the organization in time to participate in this year's voting.

Portland Radio Legend Craig Walker Dies at 80


Craig Walker
Craig Walker

Veteran Portland radio and television personality Craig Walker, whose warm on-air style made him one of Oregon's most recognizable broadcasters, died peacefully at his home on July 22. He was 80. Walker's death was announced by longtime friend and radio partner John Erickson, who praised his decades-long impact on Portland broadcasting.

"Craig redrew the landscape of Portland broadcasting with his intelligence, wit, and personality, and he did so with integrity and wisdom," Erickson wrote in a Facebook tribute. "The morning show he led on 62 KGW and later KKCW (K103) was consistently among the market leaders, and he was a longtime prime-time presence on KGW-TV as well."

Walker spent more than three decades as one of Portland's most popular broadcasters, first joining KGW Radio in 1972 before taking over its morning drive program in 1977. In 1986, he moved to KKCW-FM (K103), where he continued to host a top-rated morning show until retiring in 2005. He also became a familiar television personality as host of KGW-TV's PM Magazine and Good Evening.

Born in Nebraska in 1946, Walker moved to Dallas, OR, as a child, where his father owned a radio station. After graduating from Oregon State University in 1968 and serving in the National Guard, he began his broadcasting career in Corvallis before moving to Portland.

Throughout his career, Walker became known not only for his success on the air but also for sharing his personal life with listeners. In 1993, he publicly documented his battle with a rare liver disease and his wait for a life-saving liver transplant, later becoming a passionate advocate for organ donation and raising awareness of diabetes, bone cancer and breast cancer.

Following his retirement, Walker remained active in community events, including appearances at the Portland Rose Festival. His final public appearance came just a week before his death, when he reunited with former broadcasting colleagues at Portland's Lloyd Center.

K103 announced it will honor Walker's legacy during K103 Mornings with Stacey and Mike on Monday. Funeral arrangements are pending.

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WYPC Flips to Seaboard's Great Oldies Format


WYPC/Wellston-Jackson, OH
WYPC/Wellston-Jackson, OH

Total Media has flipped WYPC in Wellston-Jackson, OH, to Oldies using Seaboard Networks' "Good Time, Great Oldies" programming, marking the company's second format conversion with Seaboard in as many weeks.

The move follows Total Media's recent launch of "Southern Ohio Gold" on WATH in Athens, OH, after that station transitioned from Sports to Oldies. Both stations are programmed by Seaboard Networks CEO Steve Clendenin.

According to Clendenin, the WYPC launch represents Total Media's second station to adopt Seaboard's Gold 24/7 format. He said the format was customized for the local market in collaboration with JJ Hale and the Total Media team to create the desired sound and presentation.

"The flip represents the second for Total Media Group using Seaboard's Gold 24/7 format," Clendenin said. "The format was customized for the local market while working closely with JJ Hale and the team at Total Media to ensure the sound and presentation they were looking for."

KIRO Adds Tami Michaels Weekend Home Show


Tami Michaels
Tami Michaels

KIRO (Newsradio 97.3 FM) Seattle is expanding its weekend lineup with the addition of Inside Out with Tami Michaels, a new one-hour lifestyle and home improvement program debuting Saturday, August 8. Hosted by interior designer and licensed general contractor Tami Michaels, the show will air Saturdays from 2-3pm PT.

Michaels, who has more than 25 years of experience in interior design and home renovation, said the new program will blend practical advice with entertaining conversations tailored to Pacific Northwest homeowners.

"I am incredibly honored to join the legendary team at KIRO Newsradio 97.3 FM and to start this new chapter in a city that truly lives and breathes local radio," Michaels said. "My goal has always been to spark entertaining and helpful conversations on home improvement from an interior designer's perspective. There simply is no better way to do that than right here on KIRO Newsradio."

Bryan Buckalew, Director of News and Talk Programming at KIRO, said Michaels' expertise and approachable style make her a strong addition to the station's weekend schedule.

"We couldn't be more excited for Tami to join KIRO Newsradio's weekend lineup," Buckalew said. "She brings a rare combination of expertise and warmth to the microphone. The addition of Inside Out to our weekend programming underscores our ongoing commitment to providing Seattle-area listeners with content that is both informative and directly relevant to their everyday lives."

Connoisseur Media Reshuffles West Coast Programming


Brian ''Fig'' Figula
Brian ''Fig'' Figula

Connoisseur Media has announced a series of programming leadership changes across its West Coast radio stations following the recent expansion of 98.5 KBAY (Bay Country) in San Jose. Brian "Fig" Figula has been promoted to Regional Operations Manager for the Bay Area, overseeing Connoisseur's stations in San Jose, San Francisco and the East Bay.

In addition to remaining Operations Manager for the San Francisco cluster, Figula will take on day-to-day programming responsibilities for KEZR (Mix 106.5) and 98.5 KBAY while continuing to oversee programming for 96.5 KOIT. He previously programmed KOIT, KBLX and KUFX.

"These changes allow us to align our programming leadership with the continued growth of our West Coast brands," Figula said. "We're fortunate to have an incredibly talented team, and this structure gives each market experienced local leadership while creating new opportunities for collaboration across the region."

Jim "Jazzy" Archer has expanded his role to include day-to-day programming duties for KBLX in San Francisco and KBFF (Live 95.5) in Portland. He will continue programming KMVQ (99.7 NOW) in San Francisco.

In Portland, Ross MacLeod will add programming oversight of KUPL (98.7 The Bull) while continuing to oversee 101.9 KINK-FM and KUFO-FM. He also remains Operations Manager for Connoisseur Media's Portland cluster.

"The changes we made today in San Francisco, San Jose, and Portland better position us for continued success," said Keith Dakin, Senior Vice President of Programming for Connoisseur Media. "I have tremendous confidence in Fig, Jazzy, and Ross. They are talented programmers who understand their markets, know how to put the right people in the right positions, and have a proven ability to work with talent to create programming that is relevant, engaging, and locally connected."

The reorganization also includes several on-air changes. Chris Jackson joins KEZR (Mix 106.5) as midday host following the transition of KUFX to K FOX, which will continue as a digital-only Classic Rock brand on HD2 and online. In Portland, Jamie Tanchyk moves from middays on 98.7 The Bull to afternoons on Live 95.5, while Emily Harlan joins 98.7 The Bull as the new midday personality.

iHeart Tops Triton Digital's June Podcast Rankings


Triton Digital
Triton Digital

iHeart Audience Network continued to dominate Triton Digital's U.S. Podcast Ranker for June 2026, maintaining the top position among podcast sales networks while several new shows entered the rankings.

According to Triton Digital's latest Podcast Ranker, covering the period from June 1-28, iHeart Audience Network led all sales networks with 64.7 million average weekly downloads. Audioboom remained in second place with 15.5 million average weekly downloads, followed by Cumulus Podcast Network with 2.9 million.

Among individual podcasts, Stuff You Should Know from the iHeart Audience Network ranked as the most downloaded show for the month. Audioboom's Pod Save America held the No. 2 spot, while iHeart's My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark ranked third.

The June rankings also featured several new entries, including Big Take and The Mark Belling Podcast from the iHeart Audience Network, along with Insight with Chris Van Vliet from the Cumulus Podcast Network.

Triton said the latest rankings demonstrate continued growth in available podcast inventory, with new shows providing additional advertising opportunities while established networks continue to deliver large-scale audiences.

SiriusXM Launches 24/7 WWE Radio Channel


SiriusXM
SiriusXM

SiriusXM and WWE have announced the launch of WWE Radio, a new 24/7 channel dedicated to professional wrestling that will become the official audio home of WWE beginning Monday, July 27.

Taking over SiriusXM channel 156, WWE Radio will feature live audio broadcasts of WWE's biggest Premium Live Events, daily original programming, and a lineup of WWE-themed podcasts, giving fans around-the-clock access to wrestling coverage.

The channel will provide live play-by-play coverage of major events including WrestleMania, SummerSlam, Royal Rumble and Survivor Series, along with select audio simulcasts of WWE's weekly flagship television programming.

WWE Radio will debut its first live event coverage during SummerSlam weekend from Minneapolis on August 1-2. Lead play-by-play announcer Vic Joseph will be joined by WWE Hall of Famer Booker T to call the action from the two-night event.

"We're excited to bring the WWE Universe closer to all of the in-ring action at WWE's biggest events on SiriusXM, beginning with wall-to-wall coverage of SummerSlam in Minnesota," Booker T said.

Leading up to SummerSlam, SiriusXM will originate several live shows from the Minneapolis Convention Center featuring Dave LaGreca, Bully Ray, Mark Henry, Tommy Dreamer, Sam Roberts and Peter Rosenberg. The hosts will preview storylines, interview WWE personalities and interact with fans.

The channel's daily lineup will be anchored by SiriusXM's long-running Busted Open, airing weekdays from 9am to noon ET with LaGreca and WWE legends Bully Ray, Mark Henry and Nic Nemeth. Additional programming includes Notsam Wrestling Live with Sam Roberts, Cheap Heat Live with Peter Rosenberg, The Hart Beat with Natalya, Off the Ropes, and the nightly call-in show Busted Open After Dark.

WWE Radio will also feature episodes of several WWE podcasts produced in partnership with Fanatics, including What Do You Want to Talk About? hosted by Cody Rhodes, Six Feet Under with The Undertaker, What's Your Story? with Steph McMahon, and WWE Now, Raw Recap hosted by Sam Roberts and Megan Morant.

"The WWE Universe is always looking for new ways to engage with WWE, and our partnership with SiriusXM will deliver exclusive access, original programming and live event coverage that brings fans closer to the action wherever they are," said Alex Varga, WWE Executive Vice President.

Jared Fox, SiriusXM's Senior Vice President of Sports Programming, Content Marketing & Partnerships, said the new channel combines SiriusXM's established wrestling programming with WWE's marquee events to create "the most comprehensive wrestling audio platform in the industry."

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