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Top Radio News
BIA Raises 2026 Ad Forecast, Radio Holds Steady
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, April 9, 2026 | 3:00am CT |
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BIA Advisory Services has increased its 2026 U.S. local advertising forecast, projecting total spending to reach $184.5 billion, an 8.1% year-over-year gain, with radio maintaining a stable position in a rapidly evolving media mix.
The revised outlook reflects stronger-than-expected growth in digital channels such as mobile, social, streaming, and connected TV, along with a surge in political advertising. BIA now estimates $8.4 billion in local political ad spending for 2026, benefiting multiple media platforms, including radio.
For radio, the forecast points to modest but steady growth. Over-the-air (OTA) radio revenue is expected to increase 1.8% to approximately $10.08 billion in 2026, while radio digital revenue -- encompassing streaming and podcasting -- will rise 5.0% to about $2.38 billion.
Excluding political spending, however, OTA radio revenue is projected to decline slightly by 0.3%, underscoring the medium's reliance on cyclical political dollars for near-term gains. At the same time, radio digital revenue continues to grow, albeit at a slower 2.0% pace without political influence.
BIA said traditional media, including radio, continue to play a key role for advertisers seeking scale, credibility, and local connection, even as digital channels capture a growing share of budgets. The firm also highlighted opportunities for radio through digital audio extensions such as streaming and podcasts.
The updated forecast describes a "two-speed" advertising economy, with growth driven by both political spending in the near term and long-term gains from key verticals such as retail, restaurants, travel, real estate, and financial services.
Looking ahead, BIA projects total local advertising will exceed $222 billion by 2030, with success increasingly tied to media companies' ability to combine traditional reach -- where radio remains competitive -- with data-driven targeting and measurement.
SBS Reaches Deal to Restructure Debt, Files Chapter 11
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | 3:43pm CT |
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Spanish Broadcasting System (SBS) has entered into a restructuring support agreement with a group of bondholders holding more than 72% of its outstanding senior secured notes, outlining a plan to significantly reduce debt and reposition the company for long-term growth.
Under the agreement, existing common and preferred equity, along with the company's current notes, would be canceled. In exchange, noteholders would receive full ownership of the reorganized company, along with new secured notes and equity issued under a management incentive plan.
To implement the plan, SBS said it intends to file for Chapter 11 protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. The company expects to continue normal operations during the process, including paying employees and vendors, supported by debtor-in-possession financing commitments from the supporting investors.
The restructuring is designed to reduce interest expense, extend debt maturities by more than four years, and improve liquidity. SBS said the added financial flexibility will support investment in local programming, talent, broadcast infrastructure, and its LaMusica digital platform, while strengthening its ability to serve advertisers and expand audience reach.
CEO Raul Alarcon will remain in his role and continue as chairman through the restructuring process. The company also promoted Richard D. Lara to chief operating officer while he retains his general counsel responsibilities.
The transaction remains subject to court approval and regulatory clearances, including from the FCC.
Beasley Broadcast Q4 Revenue Falls, Posts Large Loss
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | 4:15pm CT |
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Beasley Broadcast Group reported a sharp decline in fourth quarter revenue and a significant net loss, driven largely by a major non-cash impairment charge, according to its latest financial filing.
Net revenue for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2025 fell 21.1% to $53.1 million, down from $67.3 million a year earlier. For the full year, revenue declined to $205.9 million from $240.3 million in 2024.
The company posted a net loss of $190.1 million for the quarter, compared to a $2.1 million loss in the prior-year period. For the full year, net loss widened to $196.5 million. Results were heavily impacted by a $224.8 million non-cash impairment related to FCC licenses, reflecting revised valuations amid ongoing pressure on the radio business.
Adjusted EBITDA declined to $0.8 million in the quarter from $10.7 million a year ago, while full-year adjusted EBITDA dropped to $10.5 million from $25.8 million.
Despite overall declines, Beasley reported continued growth in digital operations. Fourth quarter digital revenue rose 9.7% year-over-year to $12.6 million and accounted for nearly 24% of total revenue. For the full year, digital revenue increased 5.9% to $49.5 million.
Local revenue remained a key component of the business, representing 73% of fourth quarter revenue, while new business contributed 12%.
Management cited ongoing weakness in traditional agency advertising as a primary headwind but pointed to cost reductions and digital expansion as offsets. The company said it has implemented more than $30 million in annualized cost cuts over the past 18 months.
Beasley also took steps to strengthen its balance sheet, including station divestitures totaling about $26 million and a planned debt exchange expected to reduce total debt by roughly half to about $110 million upon completion.
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AM/FM Radio Leads In-Car Listening, Edison Says
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | 12:32pm CT |
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AM/FM radio continues to dominate in-car audio listening despite growing competition from digital platforms, according to newly released Q1 2026 data from Edison Research at SSRS.
The latest "Share of Ear" findings show that 55% of all in-car audio time among Americans age 13 and older is spent with AM/FM radio, whether over-the-air or via streaming. That places it well ahead of all other audio sources in the car.
Streaming audio ranks a distant second, accounting for 16% of in-car listening. While streaming usage has grown steadily over the past decade, the report notes it has yet to seriously challenge radio's lead among the total population.
Among younger listeners, streaming platforms make stronger gains but still trail radio. For Americans ages 13-34, AM/FM radio captures 46% of in-car audio time, compared with 30% for streaming audio.
The report underscores radio's continued strength in the car, even as consumers gain access to an expanding array of digital audio options.
SuiteRadio Offers Stations Oil Well Giveaway
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | 2:46pm CT |
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SuiteRadio is rolling out a new promotional contest for radio stations, offering listeners the chance to win a royalty interest in a producing oil and gas well.
The Houston-based company says the "Oil Well Giveaway" provides participating stations with a market-exclusive promotion designed to generate audience engagement. The prize includes a Royalty Deed granting an overriding interest in an active well, allowing the winner to receive ongoing royalty payments tied to production.
Stations can also execute the promotion through barter via SuiteRadio's partnership with Key Networks.
Mike McVay, a consultant for SuiteRadio and president of McVay Media, described the concept as a high-impact promotion aimed at cutting through audience clutter. He noted the appeal of offering a tangible, income-generating prize tied to energy production.
SuiteRadio COO Pat Fant said the company handles the administrative process, including filing the Royalty Deed with the appropriate county clerk's office where the well is located. Winners would then receive royalty payments based on the well's output.
SuiteRadio says the turnkey promotion is designed to be simple for stations to implement while delivering a distinctive on-air contest opportunity.
Seaboard Adds ''Whip of Cords'' for Distribution
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | 1:13pm CT |
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Newly launched Seaboard Networks has added "Whip of Cords with Matt Rhodes" to its programming lineup, offering the rock-based show to stations on a free, barter basis.
The program blends multiple rock formats with an emphasis on delivering a positive message and is available to all radio outlets, including LPFM, non-commercial, and internet stations.
Hosted by Matt Rhodes, "Whip of Cords" features a mix of new and emerging music, album promotions, and artist interviews. The show also expands beyond music, incorporating conversations with actors and celebrities, along with segments on upcoming films and food and beverage products.
Seaboard Networks Marketing Solutions Consultant Bob Stei said the show is a strong fit across a variety of rock formats, calling it a "unique product" for stations seeking fresh content.
Rhodes, a native of Western Pennsylvania, began his radio career at a young age at WKTX-FM in Cortland, Ohio, before moving to WPAO in Youngstown in 1995, where the program originated. "Whip of Cords" is currently heard on multiple stations worldwide.
Seaboard Networks says additional program announcements are expected in the coming days.
Free Q2 Radio Sales Event Targets Revenue Growth
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | 2:44pm CT |
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A free online radio sales event aimed at helping industry professionals boost revenue in the second quarter is set for this Thursday at 8 p.m. Eastern. The Q2 2026 Radio Sales Event will feature a roundtable discussion with revenue-focused guests including Kristen Cantrell, owner and operator of Seven Mountains Media & Seven Mountains Creative, and Dean Rutherford, Senior Vice President of Sales at Stingray Radio in Toronto.
The session will be co-hosted by Chris Fleming of CD Media Consulting and Loyd Ford of Rainmaker Pathway Consulting Works. Organizers say the quarterly event is designed to provide practical strategies radio sellers can use immediately to increase income.
Ford said the goal of the series is to help local radio sales professionals "increase their sales and their income this quarter," regardless of market size or location.
The event will be accessible on multiple devices, with participants able to stream it via RainmakerPathway.com or subscribe through podcast platforms including Apple, Audible and Spotify. Organizers note there is no cost or paywall to access the content.
The program is part of "The Encouragers The Radio Rally" podcast, which features nearly 300 archived episodes focused on supporting radio professionals at all levels.
Ana Szabo Launches ''Ana's Group Chat'' Podcast
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | 12:42pm CT |
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YEA Media Group has announced the launch of a new weekly podcast, "Ana's Group Chat," hosted by Kidd Kraddick Morning Show personality Ana Szabo alongside co-host Alicia Becerra.
The podcast expands on a popular segment from the Kidd Kraddick Morning Show, evolving into a longer-form audio experience built around conversations on pop culture, including television, movies, music, books, and trending topics.
Szabo said the idea grew out of an engaged online community that began as a show segment and later developed into a Facebook group. She noted the podcast format allows for deeper interaction and connection with listeners.
"Ana's Group Chat" will also incorporate audience participation, inviting listeners to share personal stories and experiences as part of the discussion, with the goal of creating a conversational, community-driven environment.
New episodes will be released each Wednesday and will be available across major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeartRadio.
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Seaboard Adds Localized Weather for Affiliates
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | 4:05pm CT |
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Seaboard Networks has entered a strategic partnership with Local Storm Center to provide localized weather services to its affiliate radio stations nationwide.
Under the agreement, Seaboard will offer professionally produced, market-specific forecasts from Local Storm Center as both a bundled feature with its 24/7 formats and as a standalone service. Stations will receive three daily forecasts tailored to their market and formatted for compatibility with automation systems.
Founder Steven Clendenin said the addition of weather strengthens Seaboard's goal of building a full-service content platform for radio stations, noting that reliable daily forecasts are essential for all broadcasters.
The partnership is designed to streamline station operations by combining programming, imaging and key content services into a single offering. Local Storm Center's Johnny Caudle said the collaboration expands the company's reach while delivering localized weather content through Seaboard's growing affiliate base.
Seaboard Networks currently offers syndicated programming, round-the-clock music formats and news services. The addition of Local Storm Center is intended to further position the company as a "station-in-a-box" solution provider.
The weather service is available immediately to Seaboard affiliates.
Audacy Partners with Suzy Welch Podcast
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 8, 2026 | 3:58pm CT |
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Audacy has announced a partnership with author and NYU Stern School of Business professor Suzy Welch to handle sales and distribution for her podcast, "Becoming You with Suzy Welch."
The show joined Audacy in March, 2026 and releases new episodes weekly on Tuesdays across major podcast platforms. The agreement expands Audacy's portfolio of personality-driven content while providing broader reach for Welch's program.
"Becoming You" draws on Welch's academic work and bestselling book, focusing on decision-making, purpose, and personal development. Each episode features conversations with guests on topics such as career changes, relationships, parenting and professional growth.
Welch said the partnership will allow the podcast to reach a wider audience while offering brands opportunities to connect with listeners interested in self-improvement and life planning.
Audacy's Head of Podcasts, Leah Reis-Dennis, said Welch's approach to mentorship and personal insight aligns with the company's strategy to grow engaging, thought-driven audio content.
KKOB Launches 250 Flags Statewide Honor Initiative
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, April 7, 2026 | 7:25pm CT |
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Cumulus Media's News Radio KKOB has unveiled "250 Flags," a statewide initiative honoring individuals across New Mexico in celebration of the nation's 250th anniversary.
Beginning April 13 through April 27, listeners are invited to nominate individuals who have made meaningful contributions to their communities. Honorees can include anyone in New Mexico-living or deceased-recognized for service, leadership, sacrifice or everyday acts that strengthen their communities. Submissions will be accepted through the station's website and must include a photo and brief description.
Starting May 4, KKOB will announce four honorees each weekday, leading up to a culminating event later this summer. Each selected individual will receive a commemorative American flag in recognition of their impact.
Program Director and Operations Manager Aaron "Buck" Burnett said the initiative is designed to highlight those who often go unrecognized. He noted that the campaign provides an opportunity to share the stories of "everyday heroes" across the state.
The effort is part of KKOB's broader focus on local storytelling and community engagement. Promotional support will come from "Partners for Impact," including KOAT-TV and Albuquerque Journal.
AI Adoption High, But Impact Lags: LeadG2 Study
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, April 7, 2026 | 3:58pm CT |
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LeadG2 has released a new research report examining how revenue teams are using artificial intelligence, finding widespread adoption but limited impact due to gaps in integration, training, and execution. The report, "Revenue Enablement in the AI Era," is based on a survey of 154 revenue leaders across industries and highlights what it describes as a disconnect between AI usage and meaningful business transformation.
According to the findings, 100% of respondents report using or piloting AI, yet only 12% say it is deeply integrated into daily workflows. While 90% of teams report efficiency gains, most describe those improvements as incremental rather than transformative.
Messaging inconsistency emerged as the top challenge, cited by 64% of respondents, particularly among frontline sales and marketing contributors. The report also identifies training-not budget-as the biggest barrier to AI adoption, with 63% pointing to a lack of internal expertise.
The research further reveals gaps in data confidence and system integration. Only 27% of respondents say they are very confident in their CRM and AI data, and just 23% report fully integrated systems across sales and marketing functions.
LeadG2 notes a perception divide between leadership and frontline teams. While 74% of executives believe their organizations are aligned around revenue enablement, only 31% of individual contributors agree, suggesting strategy is not consistently translating into execution.
The report also highlights uneven application of AI tools. Leadership tends to focus on areas such as content creation and analytics, while frontline teams are less likely to use AI in higher-impact functions like sales coaching and personalization.
LeadG2 VP and Senior Director Emily Hartzell said that while AI is already embedded in daily operations, adoption alone is not enough. She noted that without consistent messaging, integrated systems, and structured enablement, AI can amplify existing inefficiencies.
The company concludes that organizations seeing the greatest return from AI will be those that prioritize structured enablement, improved data quality, stronger system integration, and expanded use cases beyond top-of-funnel activities, while also measuring buyer experience alongside pipeline metrics.
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Sigma Expands with Don Cheto, Mero Shows
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, April 7, 2026 | 5:21pm CT |
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Sigma Audio Networks, powered by MediaCo Holding Inc., has expanded its national audio platform with the addition of two multicultural franchises: Don Cheto Show and HOT 97 Mornings with Mero.
Under the agreements, Sigma becomes the exclusive national home of Don Cheto, overseeing syndication and national advertising sales. Meanwhile, HOT 97 Mornings with Mero will be syndicated nationally, extending its reach beyond its flagship station, WQHT-FM (HOT 97).
The company said the additions enhance its ability to deliver personality-driven programming to multicultural audiences across both terrestrial radio and digital platforms. Brian Fisher, Chief Revenue Officer at MediaCo, said the move reflects increasing demand for culturally relevant audio content at scale and strengthens the company's ability to deliver reach and impact for advertisers.
Don Cheto, a veteran personality in Spanish-language radio, will expand its national footprint through centralized distribution and monetization under Sigma. HOT 97 Mornings with Mero, originally launched in New York, has quickly grown into a leading multicultural morning show, blending music, humor and culturally focused conversation.
Elisa Torres, President and CEO of Sigma Audio Networks, said both programs exemplify the type of authentic, personality-led content driving audience engagement, adding that the company aims to scale such programming nationally across broadcast and digital platforms.
NAB Names Carrie Healey VP of Communications
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, April 7, 2026 | 2:16pm CT |
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The National Association of Broadcasters has appointed Carrie Healey as Vice President of Communications. She will report to Michelle Lehman, Chief of Staff and Executive Vice President of Public Affairs.
In the role, Healey will serve as NAB's primary spokesperson and lead media relations efforts to support broadcasters' policy priorities before Congress and the Federal Communications Commission. She will oversee a communications team that includes Grace Whaley, Director of Communications and Social Media, and Judianne Meredith, Communications Coordinator.
Lehman said Healey brings extensive experience in strategic communications and public affairs, along with a strong understanding of the policymaking process that will enhance the association's advocacy efforts.
Healey joins NAB from Purple Strategies, where she served as a client engagement lead developing advocacy and public affairs campaigns. Previously, she was senior director of external communications and media relations at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Her background also includes communications roles for Rep. Donald Norcross of New Jersey and serving as national press secretary and deputy communications director for John Delaney's presidential campaign. Earlier in her career, Healey held positions with AOL, TheGrio and MSNBC.
NRG Media Closes Nebraska Station Sale to Usher
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, April 7, 2026 | 5:12pm CT |
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NRG Media has completed the sale of a group of Nebraska radio stations to Usher Media, marking another step in the company's divestiture of assets in the state. The transaction includes KGFW-AM, KQKY-FM, KRNY-FM, and translator K241CN in Kearney; KROR-FM in Hastings; and KSYZ-FM in Grand Island. Kalil & Co., Inc. served as the exclusive broker.
NRG Media, an Iowa-based broadcaster led by CEO Mary Quass, owns more than 30 stations across Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska, and Wisconsin. The buyer, Usher Media, is a Nebraska-based company headed by Alan Usher.
The stations included in the deal feature a mix of AM and FM signals across central Nebraska, with several high-power FM facilities operating at up to 100 kW.
The closing follows a previously announced agreement in February for NRG Media to sell its Omaha-Council Bluffs cluster to Usher Media, which includes KOIL-AM, KOPW-FM, KOZN-AM, KZOT-AM, and KQKQ-FM. That transaction remains subject to FCC approval.
With the latest closing, Usher Media expands its presence in Nebraska, while NRG Media continues to streamline its station portfolio.
KSE Names Ekert, Raclin to New Leadership Roles
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, April 7, 2026 | 11:21am CT |
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Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE) has appointed two senior executives to newly structured leadership positions, naming Lacy Ekert as Chief Commercial Officer and Curran Raclin as Senior Vice President, Strategy & Analytics.
Ekert will assume her role on May 1, overseeing sponsorship, naming rights, and commercial partnerships across KSE's portfolio, including the Denver Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche, Colorado Rapids, and Colorado Mammoth. She will also lead media sales integration for Altitude Sports and the company's radio assets.
She joins KSE from the Cincinnati Bengals, where she served as Chief Partnership Officer. Her background also includes partnership development roles with BSE Global and Topgolf Entertainment Group.
Raclin, who stepped into his newly created position last month, will oversee data, business analytics, and business technology for the organization. He previously spent more than seven years at the NHL, most recently as Senior Vice President of Fan Engagement, Analytics & Research. His experience also includes positions with Madison Square Garden Company, Turnkey Sports & Entertainment, and the Boston Red Sox.
Both executives will report to Kevin Demoff, President of Teams and Media Operations at KSE.
KSE's radio holdings include KKSE-FM (Altitude Sports Radio 92.5 FM), KKSE-AM (Altitude Sports Radio 950 AM), KIMN (MIX 100), and KXKL (Kool 105).
Women's Lifestyle Podcasts Drive Audience Action
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, April 7, 2026 | 2:48pm CT |
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An Audacy Insights report finds that expert-led women's lifestyle podcasts are attracting highly engaged audiences and delivering measurable results for advertisers, as listeners increasingly turn to trusted voices over celebrity influencers.
According to the company's Power of Influencers Study 2025, these podcasts-covering topics from finance and health to relationships and fitness-are building loyal followings by offering practical advice from credentialed hosts such as doctors, entrepreneurs and athletes. The approach is resonating with listeners seeking authenticity and expertise in an increasingly crowded media environment.
The study shows women's lifestyle podcast listeners are more likely to take action than general podcast audiences. Nearly half (47%) reported visiting a website after listening, while 27% made a purchase and 23% recommended products or services.
Audacy says the appeal lies in relatability. Rather than polished celebrity personas, hosts are described as candid and approachable, creating a connection that mirrors trusted friendships. That dynamic is helping advertisers integrate brands more naturally into content, often through conversations aligned with listener interests.
The report highlights several examples, including physician-hosted podcasts addressing women's health and athlete-led shows that blend sports with broader lifestyle content. In these cases, brand partnerships are woven into discussions, offering information and experiences rather than traditional ad interruptions.
The broader podcast landscape is also shifting. While overall audiences are now nearly evenly split between men and women, Audacy's lifestyle category skews more female and includes a high proportion of parents.
The study also notes that four in ten female listeners say they are more influenced by knowledgeable hosts than celebrities, underscoring the growing importance of expertise-driven content.
As a result, advertisers are expanding campaigns beyond audio to include video, social media and live events, using podcast hosts as multi-platform influencers to deepen engagement.
Audacy concludes that women's lifestyle podcasts are emerging as a powerful channel for reaching consumers, combining authenticity with measurable impact on purchasing behavior.
Read the entire Audacy post here.
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