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Westwood One Study Challenges Eight AM/FM Radio Myths
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, October 26, 2026 | 2:16pm CT |
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A new analysis from Cumulus Media's Westwood One Audio Active Group challenges eight common advertiser perceptions about AM/FM radio, citing research that shows the medium continues to deliver substantial audience reach, advertising effectiveness and return on investment.
In the latest Audio Active Group blog, Chief Insights Officer Pierre Bouvard examines findings from Nielsen, Edison Research, LeadsRx and an August 2026 Advertiser Perceptions survey of 302 media agency and advertising professionals. The analysis identifies significant differences between how advertisers perceive radio audiences and actual listening behavior.
According to the Advertiser Perceptions survey, agencies and marketers estimated that AM/FM radio reaches just 43% of Americans weekly. However, Nielsen data places the medium's weekly reach at 86%, twice the industry estimate.
The report also challenges the perception that younger audiences have abandoned traditional radio. Nielsen data provided through Katz Radio Group indicates that adults 18-34 represent AM/FM radio's largest listening demographic, with more than 63 million weekly listeners.
Another misconception involves radio's audience share compared with streaming services. Advertisers estimated that Spotify and Pandora command a combined 46% share of ad-supported audio listening, compared with 26% for AM/FM radio. However, Edison's Q3 2026 "Share of Ear" study places AM/FM radio's actual share at 62%, approximately 13 times that of ad-supported Spotify and 16 times that of ad-supported Pandora.
In-car listening remains another area of strength. According to Edison Research, AM/FM radio accounts for 81% of ad-supported audio listening in vehicles, despite growing availability of connected-car entertainment options.
The analysis also examines radio's potential contribution to advertising campaigns. Nielsen Media Impact research cited by the Radio Advertising Bureau found that reallocating just 10% of a media budget from connected television, digital and linear television to AM/FM radio increased campaign reach by 20% without increasing overall spending.
Daily audience reach provides another distinction. Edison's research indicates that ad-supported Spotify, Pandora and podcasts collectively reach 32% of Americans on a typical day, compared with 56% for AM/FM radio.
Bouvard also addresses advertiser skepticism about radio's return on investment. Nielsen's Global Media Mix Modeling Benchmarks rank AM/FM radio second globally in advertising ROI, generating an average return of $2 for every dollar invested. In the U.S., radio ranks fourth among 12 measured media categories, delivering $2.14 for every advertising dollar.
Additional attribution research conducted by LeadsRx for Westwood One found that AM/FM radio advertising generated an average 14% increase in website traffic across 17 campaigns measured over five years.
The report concludes by challenging the perception that radio advertising cannot be measured as effectively as television or digital media. Westwood One maintains that modern attribution and measurement tools can evaluate radio's contribution to website visits, sales and other advertising outcomes.
The findings underscore the gap between advertiser assumptions and audience measurement data, with Bouvard arguing that radio remains an important component of advertising strategies seeking broader reach and measurable results.
Read the complete Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group blog here.
SummitMedia Names Aaron Wilborn Omaha Market President
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, October 26, 2026 | 2:09pm CT |
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SummitMedia has appointed Aaron Wilborn as Market President of its Omaha operations, overseeing the company's radio stations, digital platforms and events business. Wilborn joins SummitMedia from Dick Broadcasting Company, where he has served as President since 2018, directing the company's radio group along with its digital and events divisions.
A broadcast executive with more than 25 years of experience in radio and digital sales, Wilborn previously served as President and CEO of Apex Media Corporation in Charleston, SC, where he oversaw radio, digital, outdoor advertising and information technology operations.
Earlier in his career, he held senior sales and market leadership positions with Clear Channel/iHeartMedia in Jacksonville, FL, West Palm Beach/Treasure Coast, FL, and Washington, DC.
"I'm incredibly excited to join SummitMedia," said Wilborn. "Omaha is an outstanding market, and I look forward to working alongside our talented team to strengthen our advertiser relationships and make a lasting impact in the community."
SummitMedia Executive Vice President Randy Chase welcomed Wilborn, citing his leadership experience and the company's growth opportunities in Omaha. "Aaron brings discipline, focus and energy to the Omaha market," said Chase. "With Omaha growing at an accelerated pace, we see tremendous potential for our stations, our advertisers and our team."
SummitMedia's Omaha cluster includes KQCH-FM (Channel 94.1), KSRZ-FM (Star 104.5), KEZO-FM (Z92), home of the syndicated "Todd N Tyler Radio Empire," and KKCD-FM (Classic Rock 105.9).
WUSW Launches US Country Format in Buffalo
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, October 26, 2026 | 12:21pm CT |
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Buddy Shula's Radio One Buffalo has launched US Country on WUSW in Buffalo, NY, introducing a Classic Country format featuring hits from the 1980s, 1990s and early 2000s. The station targets listeners throughout Western New York and Southern Ontario.
Branded as "US Country - Buffalo's Country Favorites," the station features a "Retro Hot Country" playlist highlighting artists including Garth Brooks, George Strait, Alan Jackson, Kenny Chesney, Shania Twain, Brooks & Dunn, Reba McEntire and Dolly Parton.
The station's on-air lineup includes veteran Buffalo Country personalities Buddy Shula, Wendy Lynn, Greg Ireland and Aaron James. Liz Mantel is scheduled to join the morning lineup in December.
"US Country is built around a clear promise: great country music and a station that feels connected to the people who listen," said Radio One Buffalo owner Buddy Shula. "We're bringing Buffalo country artists and songs that they have been craving, and that you can't find anywhere else on the radio, locally."
Shula, who previously worked at Buffalo's heritage Country station WYRK, said the new format is designed to fill a gap in the market by featuring familiar artists and songs that receive limited exposure on contemporary Country radio. "In Buffalo, WYRK is the heritage country station. I was on the air at WYRK earlier in my career, and it's where I found my love for country music," Shula said. "However, the artists and songs we were playing back then cannot be heard anymore... until now."
Veteran Country programmer Ken Johnson has also joined US Country as a special advisor. Johnson served as WYRK's first Program Director from 1982 to 1997 before moving to Country WXTU in Philadelphia. He subsequently worked as a Program Director and consultant for multiple Country music channels at XM Satellite Radio from 2001 to 2009.
The launch positions WUSW as an alternative to Buffalo's existing Country offerings, emphasizing established hits and familiar personalities from the format's earlier decades.
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Country Radio Hall of Fame Nominations Due October 30
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, October 26, 2026 | 5:05pm CT |
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The Country Radio Hall of Fame (CRHoF) is reminding industry professionals that nominations for its Class of 2027 must be submitted by Friday, October 30, to receive consideration for next year's induction.
Established in 1974, the Country Radio Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the country radio and music industries. Eligible nominees must have worked in radio for at least 20 years, including a minimum of 15 years in the Country format.
The Hall of Fame recognizes professionals in two categories: Radio, honoring those who have worked behind the scenes in programming, management, sales and other industry positions; and On-Air Personality, recognizing broadcasters who have made significant contributions through their on-air work.
Nominations are accepted throughout the year, but submissions received after the October 30 deadline will be considered for the Class of 2028 rather than 2027.
The Class of 2027 inductees will be announced during Country Radio Seminar (CRS) 2027, scheduled for March 17-19 at the Omni Nashville Hotel in Nashville.
Industry professionals wishing to nominate a candidate can complete the official nomination form here.
WFUV New York Promotes Rich McLaughlin to GM
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 23, 2026 | 1:21pm CT |
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Fordham University's AAA WFUV-FM (90.7) New York has promoted Program Director Rich McLaughlin to General Manager. McLaughlin has served as interim GM since July 2026. A Fordham University graduate, McLaughlin began his broadcasting career at WFUV as a student before moving into satellite radio in 2001 as Format Manager for the then-new Sirius Satellite Radio, where he programmed the Alt Nation and Left of Center channels.
He returned to WFUV as Content Director in 2008 before joining Clear Channel New York as Digital Program Director in 2009. His subsequent positions included Senior Director of Digital Programming at Merlin Media and Director of Digital Programming and Senior Vice President of Programming for iHeartRadio.
McLaughlin later served as Senior Music Curator and Global Programming Lead for Amazon Music before returning to WFUV as Program Director in June 2021.
"WFUV has been a cornerstone of my life since my college days, and I know firsthand how transformative this station is for students discovering their potential," said McLaughlin.
"We have an incredible team, a passionately loyal community of listeners, and a vibrant connection to New York's cultural fabric. I am honored to lead WFUV as we continue championing music discovery, mentoring our students, and finding creative new ways to serve our community."
In his new role, McLaughlin will oversee the station's operations, programming and continued development as a public radio outlet serving the New York metropolitan area.
UNT Names Zac Babb Operations Manager for KNTU
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 23, 2026 | 4:36pm CT |
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The University of North Texas (UNT) has named Zac Babb Operations Manager for its three audio brands, including KNTU-FM (88.1), its Indie/Alternative-AAA station, Jazz-formatted KNTU-HD2 (The One) and student-operated MeanGreenHits.com.
Babb, a 2017 UNT graduate and former KNTU student, returns to the station after previously serving as Sports and Events Manager from September 2022 through January 2025.
He also maintains an extensive relationship with North Texas Athletics, serving as the radio play-by-play voice for the university's women's basketball team. Additionally, he works as sideline reporter, engineer and producer for North Texas football broadcasts.
"UNT has been an important part of both my personal and professional journey for more than 10 years now, and I'm very grateful to be given the opportunity to rejoin my alma mater's radio station," said Babb.
"KNTU has a tremendous history of developing talent, and I'm excited to build on that tradition and legacy while helping provide students with the tools and experience they need to succeed in the industry."
KNTU General Manager Todd Pitts, known professionally as Todd Shannon, welcomed Babb's return, citing his experience and commitment to student development.
"Having worked with Zac in the past, I know his heart for broadcasting, coaching students and without a doubt he bleeds Mean Green," said Pitts. "We are now well poised to serve our ever-growing base of students who have a genuine interest in our medium."
In his new position, Babb will oversee operations across UNT's three audio platforms while supporting the university's efforts to provide students with hands-on broadcasting experience.
Edison Reveals Top 50 U.S. Podcasts for Q3 2026
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 23, 2026 | 12:49pm CT |
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Edison Research at SSRS has released its Top 50 Podcasts in the U.S. for the third quarter of 2026, with "The Joe Rogan Experience," "Crime Junkie" and "The Daily" retaining the top three positions for the second consecutive quarter.
The rankings, based on reach among weekly podcast consumers ages 13 and older, are compiled through Edison Podcast Metrics.
"Call Her Daddy" ranked fourth, followed by "SmartLess" in fifth. "New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce" climbed one position to sixth, while "This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von" also gained one spot to seventh.
"Dateline NBC" slipped two positions to eighth, while "Rotten Mango" posted the largest gain among the top 10, climbing four places to ninth. "The Breakfast Club" rounded out the top 10, moving up one position.
Among the quarter's notable developments, "Dumb Blonde," hosted by Bunnie Xo, entered the top 20 for the first time. The program attracted attention in August following the posting and subsequent removal of an episode discussing her divorce from country music artist Jelly Roll.
Three additional programs moved into the top 25: "The Pat McAfee Show," "Pardon My Take" and "Kill Tony." The gains came amid increased visibility for the shows, including the release of a country-rock album by McAfee, a 10th-anniversary book from the creators of "Pardon My Take" and live performances by "Kill Tony" at Madison Square Garden.
Five podcasts made their first appearances in the top 50: "StarTalk Radio," "Club 520," "The Stephen A. Smith Show/Straight Shooter," "Hang Out with Sean Hannity" and "Smosh Reads Reddit Stories."
Meanwhile, "True Crime with Kendall Rae" recorded one of the quarter's largest improvements, jumping 44 positions to No. 55, just outside the top 50.
Edison Podcast Metrics measures podcast listening behavior and ranks programs by audience reach rather than download totals, providing a view of the most widely consumed podcasts among U.S. weekly listeners.
MIW Names Callie Luttman 2026 Behind the Mic Mentee
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, October 26, 2026 | 0:01am CT |
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Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW) has named Callie Luttman, morning host of Saga Communications' WLRW-FM (Mix 94.5) in Champaign-Urbana, IL, as the recipient of its 2026 Behind the Mic Mentorship.
The year-long program provides professional development opportunities for women in on-air broadcasting through one-on-one mentorship with senior industry executives. The initiative focuses on programming, talent development, audience growth and brand strategy. As part of the program, Luttman will also attend the 2027 NAB Show in Las Vegas.
Luttman currently hosts mornings on Mix 94.5, having previously spent four years co-hosting "The Tommy and Callie Morning Show." She also handles afternoon drive on 97.9 The Vibe, where she oversees music programming.
Additionally, Luttman hosts "Focus," a weekly public affairs program airing across all seven Illini Media Group stations. The program addresses community issues including domestic violence prevention, food and hygiene insecurity, and resources for veterans and first responders.
Her broadcasting career began at WEIU Hit Mix 88.9 and Cromwell Radio Group. Beyond her on-air duties, she remains active in event planning, community outreach and local initiatives throughout the Champaign-Urbana area.
"Callie represents the kind of talent this mentorship was created to support," said MIW Board Member Leslie Scott. "She's already demonstrated tremendous initiative by taking on multiple on-air roles, programming responsibilities and meaningful community engagement."
Scott added that Luttman's commitment to professional growth and connecting with listeners made her an ideal candidate for the mentorship. "I am beyond grateful to have been selected for this incredible opportunity," said Luttman. "I'm motivated and ready to explore new areas of growth while learning from some incredible women in this industry. I truly appreciate this opportunity and can't wait to get started!"
The Behind the Mic Mentorship is part of MIW's ongoing efforts to develop and advance women in radio broadcasting through professional guidance, industry connections and leadership development.
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Recharge Media Brings KGSR Calls Back to Texas
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 23, 2026 | 1:11pm CT |
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Recharge Media PBC has secured the historic KGSR-FM call letters through the FCC's call sign availability system, replacing KCRQ-FM in Junction, TX, as the company prepares to expand its CRUSH FM Adult Contemporary format across the Texas Hill Country.
Recharge Media holds a construction permit to relocate the station from Junction to Cherry Spring, TX, approximately 75 miles west of Austin. Upon completion of the move, anticipated during the first quarter of 2027, the station will launch as CRUSH 103.3 FM, expanding the format's coverage throughout the region.
CRUSH FM features an Adult Contemporary format celebrating the music, people and lifestyle of the Texas Wine Country. The programming is currently available on KMSN 104.1 FM in Mason, 101.3 FM in Fredericksburg, the Sun Radio app and online at Crushstream.com.
The network's studios are located at the new Grand Central Great Lawn in Fredericksburg, overlooking the venue's live music stage.
In addition to CRUSH FM, Recharge Media owns KJFK-AM 1490 HD in Austin, KJFK-FM 96.3 (Jack FM), serving Llano and Austin, and KGID-FM 96.3, licensed to Giddings, TX.
The KGSR-FM call letters have a long history in Central Texas radio, dating back to the 1980s when they were assigned to stations serving the Austin area. Their return marks another chapter for the familiar call sign as Recharge Media prepares to introduce CRUSH 103.3 FM to a broader Hill Country audience.
NYSBA Announces 2026 Rising Leaders Fellowship Graduates
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 23, 2026 | 3:35pm CT |
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The New York State Broadcasters Association (NYSBA) has announced the graduation of eight broadcast professionals from its 2026 Rising Leaders Fellowship, a leadership development program designed to prepare emerging executives for expanded responsibilities in radio and television.
The MBA-style fellowship focuses on the business and operational skills required of today's broadcast leaders, combining personal leadership development with training in revenue generation, news and content management, broadcast accounting, strategic planning and community engagement.
The 2026 Rising Leaders Fellowship graduates are:
- Danielle Ashworth, Sales Manager, Regional Radio Group
- Candace Curby, Promotions Director and On-Air Personality, Albany Broadcasting
- Josh Koumjian, News Director, WNYT and WNYA
- Kathleen O'Hare-Stewart, Controller, WHEC-TV
- Rob Taylor, News Director, NewsChannel 9 WSYR
- Brielle Travis, Account Executive, Pamal Broadcasting
- Veronica Volk, Executive Producer/Director of Podcast Strategy, WXXI
- Natasha Yurek, Senior Executive Producer, Nexstar/WIVB-TV
"The future of local broadcasting depends on leaders who understand both our evolving business and the responsibilities of serving our local communities," said NYSBA President and Executive Director Heidi Raphael. "This year's graduates represent the talent, dedication and potential that will move our industry forward."
Raphael added that investing in the development of emerging leaders strengthens New York's radio and television stations and their commitment to local communities.
Marc Jaromin, President of Roundtable Media, NYSBA Board member and Fellowship Program Dean, emphasized that the program is designed to develop leadership capabilities beyond participants' current positions.
"Our goal is not simply to help talented people take the next step in their careers. Our goal is to help build leaders who make the people and organizations around them better," said Jaromin.
He noted that the fellowship encourages participants to recognize their personal strengths, develop a broader understanding of broadcast operations and appreciate the connection between station success and community service.
NAB Show New York Draws 6,700 Attendees
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 23, 2026 | 4:30pm CT |
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NAB Show New York 2026 concluded Thursday at the Javits Center, recording more than 9,000 registrations, with approximately 6,700 people actually attending the two-day event. The conference focused on artificial intelligence, streaming, live sports and emerging media technologies.
According to preliminary figures released by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), 57% of attendees were first-time participants. Representatives from 72 countries attended, while approximately 250 exhibiting companies and sponsors showcased products and services. The conference featured 101 educational sessions and 156 speakers.
"From new business models to next-gen tools, industry leaders shared how they're using emerging technology to move their businesses forward," said NAB Executive Vice President of Global Connections and Events Karen Chupka. "That's part of the value of bringing the people into the same room who finance content, produce it and develop the technology."
Artificial intelligence's impact on production costs, changing content distribution models and the growing importance of live sports were among the major topics discussed throughout the event.
During a session titled "Game On: The Power of Sports on Broadcast," sports commentator Clay Travis encouraged broadcasters to experiment with new approaches to audience development rather than expecting immediate results.
"I think you have to be experimental. I'm a data guy, but I'll try a lot of things," Travis told NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt. "Scale comes with time, but it also comes with experiment."
LeGeyt emphasized the importance of sports programming to local broadcasters, noting that major sports rights help support the financing of local news and community programming.
New York Islanders co-owner Jon Ledecky also participated in discussions about attracting new audiences to professional sports, including efforts to increase interest in individual NHL players.
Looking ahead, NAB announced that NAB Show New York and the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) Summit will co-locate at the Javits Center in 2027.
The SMPTE Summit will take place September 28-30, featuring three days of technical sessions addressing emerging technologies, industry standards and production workflows. NAB Show New York will return September 29-30.
"We're excited to bring the SMPTE Summit back to New York alongside NAB Show," said SMPTE Executive Director Sally-Ann D'Amato. "This is a natural fit for our organizations and a tremendous opportunity for the industry."
Meanwhile, the 2027 NAB Show in Las Vegas is scheduled for April 3-7, with exhibits open April 4-7.
Katz Study Shows Radio's Impact on Digital Engagement
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 22, 2026 | 2:08pm CT |
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A new Katz Radio Group insights report highlights radio's ability to drive measurable online consumer activity, with a summer 2026 advertising campaign generating more than 16,000 radio-attributed website sessions and hundreds of modeled purchases.
The study, titled "From the Airwaves to Action: How Radio Drives Digital Engagement," examined a campaign for a leading experiential brand to determine how radio advertising contributed to website traffic, product interest and purchasing behavior.
According to Katz, the campaign's 15- and 30-second radio commercials generated an estimated 16,000-plus website sessions from nearly 10,000 unique visitors during the summer 2026 tracking period.
The analysis also examined consumer activity beyond initial website visits. Across 82 radio spots, the campaign was associated with an estimated 1,410 product views, more than 100 checkouts and over 260 modeled purchases.
Katz said the findings demonstrate how radio advertising can influence consumer behavior beyond traditional brand awareness, encouraging listeners to visit websites, explore products and move closer to making purchases.
The study used Katz Analytics, powered by Magellan AI, to evaluate website activity in relation to radio campaign timing and estimate the advertising's contribution to digital engagement.
For advertisers, Katz said this approach provides additional insight into radio's role in broader marketing strategies by connecting broadcast exposure with measurable online actions.
The findings reinforce the potential for radio to serve not only as an awareness-building medium but also as a driver of consumer engagement and purchasing activity.
Read the full Katz Radio Group insights report here.
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FCC Affirms $60,000 in Fines for Pirate Radio Operations
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 22, 2026 | 3:29pm CT |
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The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued three forfeiture orders totaling $60,000 against individuals operating unauthorized radio stations in New York and Massachusetts. The orders, released October 22, impose $20,000 penalties in each case for violations of the Communications Act's provisions prohibiting pirate radio broadcasting. The actions involve unlicensed FM operations in Spring Valley, NY; Brooklyn, NY; and Hyannis, MA.
Spring Valley, NY: The FCC imposed a $20,000 forfeiture against Etzer Toussaint for operating an unauthorized station known as "Radio Telemodel" or "Radio Tele Model" on 88.9 MHz. The Commission determined that Toussaint engaged in illegal broadcasting on January 14, 2025.
The Enforcement Bureau initially proposed the penalty on January 12, 2026. Toussaint did not respond to the Notice of Apparent Liability, prompting the FCC to affirm the full $20,000 forfeiture.
Hyannis, MA: Shane Kelly was assessed a $20,000 penalty for operating "87.9 The Test" on 87.9 MHz. FCC field agents traced the unauthorized signal to a residential property on June 6, 2023, and determined that its signal strength exceeded the limits permitted for unlicensed operations.
Kelly subsequently acknowledged operating the station as a hobby without an FCC license. Following a $20,000 proposed forfeiture in April 2024, Kelly requested leniency, stating that he had discontinued broadcasting and disposed of his equipment.
The FCC rejected his request, noting that Kelly did not dispute the violations and had not provided documentation supporting his claim that the equipment had been dismantled. The Commission affirmed the full penalty.
Brooklyn, NY: The FCC also imposed a $20,000 forfeiture against Henderson Lennox Elcock for operating an unauthorized station identified as "Wild FM" on 106.3 MHz.
The Commission determined that Elcock engaged in pirate broadcasting on January 30, 2025. A Notice of Apparent Liability was issued on January 12, 2026, but Elcock did not respond. The Enforcement Bureau subsequently finalized the proposed penalty.
All three actions were taken under Section 511 of the Communications Act, which was strengthened by the Preventing Illegal Radio Abuse Through Enforcement (PIRATE) Act of 2020.
The FCC emphasized that unauthorized broadcasting can interfere with licensed radio stations and public safety communications, including Emergency Alert System transmissions that provide critical weather and emergency information.
Each individual has 30 calendar days from the release of the forfeiture orders to pay the assessed penalty. Failure to pay could result in referral to the U.S. Department of Justice for collection.
Veteran Radio Executive Matt Hanlon Dies
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 22, 2026 | 3:28pm CT |
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Veteran radio executive Matt Hanlon, whose career included senior leadership positions at Citadel Broadcasting, Entercom, Townsquare Media and Saga Communications, died Tuesday, October 20, after suffering a heart attack.
Hanlon spent decades in radio management, sales and operations, overseeing major market clusters and helping develop regional programming networks. He was perhaps best known for his leadership at Citadel Broadcasting, where he served as Midwest Division President, overseeing 85 stations across 14 markets and approximately 1,500 employees.
During his tenure at Citadel, Hanlon played a pivotal role in developing Michigan's statewide sports radio network, recognizing the potential to expand Bill Simonson's local sports talk program, "The Huge Show," into a statewide offering. The initiative helped establish the program as a prominent sports radio brand while creating new revenue opportunities.
In November 2016, Hanlon was named Vice President and Market Manager for Entercom's newly acquired Charlotte cluster, which included WFNZ-AM (The Fan), WLNK-FM (The Link) and WBT-AM/FM. He also held leadership positions with Townsquare Media and Saga Communications, most recently serving as Director of Sales for Saga in Des Moines, IA.
Earlier in his career, Hanlon spent a decade with Katz Media Group and held sales leadership positions with AM/FM.
Simonson, who announced Hanlon's passing in a Facebook tribute, credited the executive with helping shape his broadcasting career and remembered him as both a mentor and close friend.
"Matt was the brainchild behind launching my radio show statewide," Simonson wrote. "Hanlon was a man of passion and vision. I wouldn't be where I'm at today if it wasn't for Matt Hanlon."
Simonson also recalled Hanlon's support during significant personal milestones, describing him as a devoted father who maintained strong relationships with his family and colleagues.
"He was a good friend. He was a great leader," Simonson said, adding that Hanlon's influence extended well beyond the stations and networks he managed.
Hanlon is survived by his five children. Funeral and memorial arrangements have not yet been announced.
WHAS Host Meiners Named 2026 Louisvillian of the Year
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 22, 2026 | 11:24am CT |
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iHeartMedia Louisville and the American Advertising Federation (AAF) Louisville have announced that longtime NewsRadio 840 WHAS personality Terry Meiners has been named the 2026 Louisvillian of the Year, recognizing his contributions to broadcasting, community service and charitable organizations.
Meiners has been a fixture in Louisville radio for nearly five decades, including 40 years at WHAS-AM, where he has hosted his afternoon drive talk show since 1986. His program features interviews with newsmakers, celebrities, political leaders and other prominent figures, establishing him as one of the market's most recognizable radio personalities.
"For generations, Terry Meiners has been one of Louisville's most trusted and recognizable voices," said iHeartMedia Louisville Region President Kristy Beebe. "Through his commitment to our community, his passion for local storytelling, and his unwavering support of organizations like the Crusade for Children, Terry has made an immeasurable impact on Louisville."
Beyond his broadcasting career, Meiners has been closely involved with the WHAS Crusade for Children, serving as its longest-tenured host for 27 consecutive years. Founded in 1954, the charitable organization has raised more than $230 million to support children with special needs and their families.
Meiners has also supported numerous community organizations, including Metro United Way, the Louisville Police Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana, the Louisville Urban League and Gilda's Club.
The Louisvillian of the Year award is among Kentucky's longest-running community honors, recognizing individuals whose contributions extend beyond their professional accomplishments to benefit the Louisville community.
AAF Louisville, founded in 1908, will recognize Meiners during a reception on December 2 at The Olmstead, 3701 Frankfort Avenue, from 5-7pm.
iHeart Leads Triton's September U.S. Podcast Rankings
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 22, 2026 | 11:14am CT |
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Triton Digital has released its September 2026 U.S. Podcast Ranker, with iHeart Audience Network maintaining its lead among podcast sales networks while posting an increase in average weekly downloads.
According to the report, iHeart Audience Network ranked first with 67.3 million average weekly downloads, up from 65.9 million in August. Audioboom remained second with 15.5 million, an increase from 14.9 million the previous month, while Cumulus Podcast Network held third place with 2.9 million average weekly downloads.
The rankings cover the reporting period of August 31 through September 27, and are based on data collected through Triton's Podcast Metrics measurement service.
Among individual podcasts, "Stuff You Should Know" from iHeart Audience Network retained the top position based on downloads. "Pod Save America," represented by Audioboom, remained second, followed by iHeart's "My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark" in third place.
The September rankings also included several new entries, among them "The Right Time with Bomani Jones" from iHeart Audience Network.
Triton's Top Sales Network Report ranks participating networks by average weekly downloads in accordance with version 2.2 of the Interactive Advertising Bureau's Podcast Technical Measurement Guidelines.
CMG Atlanta Promotes Abby Jessen to B98.5 Brand Manager
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | 1:55pm CT |
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Cox Media Group (CMG) Atlanta has promoted Abby Jessen to Director of Branding and Programming for AC WSB-FM (B98.5) Atlanta, effective immediately. Jessen will oversee the station's programming, brand strategy and audience development while continuing her midday airshift.
An Atlanta native and University of Georgia graduate, Jessen has spent more than a decade with Cox Media Group, holding programming and on-air positions in several markets.
She began her radio career with CMG in Athens, GA, where she programmed WGAU and WXKT (103.7 Chuck FM). She also served as a Saturday news anchor for Atlanta's 95.5 WSB (WSB-AM/WSBB-FM). Jessen later moved to CMG Tulsa, where she spent three years as Director of Branding and Programming and afternoon personality for Hot AC KRAV-FM (Mix 96.5). She subsequently returned to Atlanta as Assistant Director of Branding and Programming and midday host at B98.5.
"Abby's promotion to B98.5 Director of Branding and Programming is incredibly well deserved," said Jules Riley, Director of Operations and Programming for CMG Atlanta Radio. "Throughout more than a decade with CMG, she has continued to grow as a leader and has brought creativity, passion and a deep commitment to every role she has held."
Riley credited Jessen's leadership with helping strengthen the station's position in the Atlanta market. "Since returning to Atlanta, Abby's leadership and guidance have helped strengthen B98.5's position as a leading adult contemporary brand," Riley added. "I'm excited to see how her vision and creativity take B98.5 to even greater heights."
In addition to her new programming responsibilities, Jessen will continue hosting middays on B98.5 and three other CMG stations: WEZI (Easy 102.9) Jacksonville, FL; WNGC (106.1 WNGC) Athens, GA; and KSMG (Hits 105.3) San Antonio, TX.
"I'm incredibly grateful to the mentors, teammates, friends and my wonderful husband who have supported me throughout my career," Jessen said. "I grew up listening to B98.5, so it is truly a privilege to continue working with this amazing team to serve our listeners and the community we call home."
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