Top Radio News

Fred Jacobs to Step Down as Jacobs Media President

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, November 4, 2026 | 0:01am CT

Fred Jacobs

Jacobs Media founder and President Fred Jacobs will step down at the end of 2026, with his brother, Paul Jacobs, succeeding him. Fred will become Chairman and remain involved in research, select client work and other areas of the business.

"I've been thinking about this for a couple of years now, and I'm ready for a change," said Fred Jacobs. "I appreciate all the opportunities I've had over the years, and the people, organizations, and companies we've worked for and collaborated with."

Under Paul's leadership, Jacobs Media will emphasize overall client strategy, digital transformation and digital revenue development. Director of Digital Revenue Chris Brunt and Bill Jacobs will remain in their current roles, with additional changes still being developed.

"The core of the company will remain intact, but true to the Jacobs Media tradition, we'll be making some changes to ensure we're aligned with client and industry needs," said Paul Jacobs. "Our primary focus will be helping clients with their overall strategies, including digital transformation and building profitable digital revenue programs."

The company will continue its Techsurveys for commercial, public and Christian music radio, with Fred participating in their design and implementation. Registration for Techsurvey 2027, conducted in collaboration with Inside Radio, opens this week. The research will field in January and February and mark the company's 22nd survey of commercial radio listeners.

Fred's work at Jacobs Media has spanned the development of the Classic Rock format and initiatives focused on radio's adoption of technology. Those efforts include the Techsurveys, mobile app developer jacapps, launched in 2008, the DASH Conferences and executive tours of CES in Las Vegas.

He was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018 and received the NAB National Radio Award alongside Paul in 2022.

"Starting next year, my day-to-day life will change, but I'll still be reading the trades, checking the ratings, offering suggestions to Paul, talking strategy with select clients, giving the occasional speech or presentation, and working on the Techsurveys," Fred said. "But after nearly 4 million miles on Delta (mostly domestic), it's time."

Civic Media's IA, IL Station Deals Total $3.3 Million

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | 10:06pm CT

Civic Media

Civic Media's planned acquisition of 16 radio signals in Iowa and Illinois carries a combined purchase price of $3.3 million, according to asset purchase agreements filed with the FCC. Financial terms were not disclosed when the transactions were announced in October.

Under agreements dated October 8, Civic Media will pay $3.2 million for Titan Broadcasting's KGRS-FM in Burlington, IA, and KBKB-FM in Fort Madison, IA. A separate agreement provides $100,000 for the stations and translators owned by Pritchard Broadcasting Corp. and Galesburg Broadcasting Company, split equally between the two sellers.

The Titan purchase will be financed through a $3.2 million seller note bearing 6% annual interest over 15 years. Payments will be interest-only for the first year, followed by monthly principal and interest payments over the remaining 14 years, with no balloon payment. The Pritchard/Galesburg purchase price is payable in cash at closing. Both prices are subject to prorations and adjustments.

The agreements also reference a separate acquisition of River Park Place Realty LLC, which owns a studio and office condominium in Burlington. The consideration for that transaction is not specified in the station APAs.

The Iowa signals include KGRS-FM (107.3), KBKB-FM (101.7), KBKB-AM (1360), KBUR-AM (1490), KKMI-FM (93.5), KDMG-FM (103.1) and KHDK-FM (97.3), along with translators K283CK (104.5) and K257GC (99.3).

In Illinois, the acquisition includes WQKQ-FM (92.1), WAAG-FM (94.9), WLSR-FM (92.7), WGIL-AM (1400), WKAY-FM (105.3) and WZIE-FM (106.1), plus translator W229BO (93.7).

The acquisitions would expand Wisconsin-based Civic Media into two additional states, joining its existing operations in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan. The company focuses on local and regional news, talk programming and community engagement.

The agreements provide for time brokerage arrangements and require FCC approval before the station acquisitions can close. Kalil & Co. is serving as the exclusive broker.

Zimmer Names Mike Stern Director of Programming

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | 4:11pm CT

Mike Stern

Zimmer Communications has named Mike Stern Director of Programming, effective November 16. The veteran programmer joins the company after 13 years as a consultant at Jacobs Media, where his clients included Zimmer for more than a decade. Stern will oversee programming, music and on-air strategy across Zimmer's radio outlets, working alongside Corporate Operations Director Trevor Morgan and General Manager Carla Leible.

"I couldn't be more excited about the opportunity to join Zimmer Communications," said Stern. "I've consulted them for more than a decade, so I know it is a first class radio operation that still believes in being local and connecting with listeners. I'd like to thank Carla Leible and Trevor Morgan for making this possible."

Morgan said Stern's work as a consultant has already made an impact on the company's stations. "Mike has a genuine passion for creating great radio," said Morgan. "His creativity, organization, and keen ear for compelling content have already made a tremendous impact on the stations he's worked with through Jacobs Media."

Leible said Stern will help strengthen the company's stations and develop its talent as Zimmer grows. "He understands our company, our culture, and our commitment to local radio," she said. "As Zimmer continues to grow, Mike will play an important role in strengthening our stations, developing our talent, and positioning us for continued success."

At Jacobs Media, Stern consulted more than 50 stations, leading audience research, developing cross-platform promotions and coaching air talent on programming and digital content.

"This ends Mike's third stint with Jacobs Media, and we couldn't be happier for him," said company President Fred Jacobs. "Zimmer is a wonderful company and is a great fit for him. We appreciate Mike's contributions to our company over the years."

Stern previously programmed stations in Chicago, Denver, Milwaukee, Detroit, Las Vegas and Dayton. As Vice President of Programming for Emmis Communications in Chicago, he oversaw Alternative WKQX (Q101) and Classic Rock WLUP (The Loop).

Voiceover Talent Steve 'Zeus' Stewart Dies at 59

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | 2:58pm CT

Steve ''Zeus'' Stewart

Steve "Zeus" Stewart, a voiceover talent whose work spanned radio imaging, television networks and sports promotions, died October 26 at age 59, according to his obituary. He lived in Little River, SC. A cause of death was not disclosed.

Born Steven Curran Stewart in Greensboro, NC, he grew up in Raleigh and graduated from the North Carolina School of Broadcasting. He worked as a radio DJ, including a stop in Cheraw, SC, before building an international voiceover career through his company, "Zeus The Voice."

A SAG-AFTRA member, Stewart's credits included FOX, FOX Sports, MSNBC, The Weather Channel, MLB Network, TNT, Discovery Channel and Smithsonian. His voice also appeared in work for the Indianapolis Colts, Colorado State University Rams and a Cotton Bowl promotion.

Radio colleagues remembered both his distinctive delivery and the humor and friendship he brought to recording sessions.

"You were always available not just for some liners but just to talk! You will be missed!" John Runyan wrote on Stewart's Facebook page.

Sammy Lee recalled working with Stewart on station imaging at Z95.3.

"He was always fun to work with," Lee wrote. "I saved a lot of the banter he would send me while doing the voice work. Always made me laugh."

Beyond broadcasting, Stewart enjoyed singing, songwriting and playing guitar, and lent his voice to church programs. His obituary also recalled his love of animals, boating and time with family.

Stewart was preceded in death by his wife of 31 years, Peggy Hamden Stewart, who died in 2024. They met while he was working as a DJ in Cheraw. Survivors include his sister, Kerri Stewart Hurley; stepchildren Mac Estridge, Ashton Estridge and Donna Green; and extended family.

A private family celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Pillar Media Adds Julia Dietrich as Digital Strategist

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | 10:57am CT

Julia Dietrich

Pillar Media has named Julia Dietrich Digital Strategist for its STAR Digital Strategies team, effective November 3. Based at the WAWZ (STAR 99.1) office in New Jersey, she will manage digital marketing campaigns, website development and search engine optimization for clients. Dietrich previously held healthcare marketing positions, including roles at Aeroflow Health and Discovery Senior Living.

"I'm excited and grateful to be joining Pillar Media and STAR Digital Strategies," said Dietrich. "It's a privilege to be part of a team whose work supports a greater mission, and I'm looking forward to contributing in a meaningful way."

Pillar Media Director of Digital Sales Dan Watts said Dietrich's experience will support the division's continued expansion.

"Her digital marketing experience will help us build on the tremendous growth we've experienced in our first 14 months and continue serving our clients well," said Watts. "Just as importantly, her longtime connection as a STAR 99.1 listener means she already understands the heart behind our ministry. She's a wonderful fit for our team."

K-Love Closes Purchase of KNTI-FM in Lakeport, CA

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | 11:04am CT

K-Love

Bicoastal Media has closed on the sale of KNTI-FM in Lakeport, CA, to K-Love, Inc. Financial terms were not disclosed. Kalil & Co. served as the exclusive broker for the transaction. KNTI broadcasts at 99.5 MHz with 2.45 kW of power and an antenna height above average terrain of 1,896 feet.

Oregon-based Bicoastal Media, headed by Mike Wilson, owns and operates radio stations in 13 markets across Northern California, Oregon and Washington. K-Love, Inc. is a Tennessee-based nonprofit led by CEO Tom Stultz. The organization owns or operates radio stations in all 50 states.

Kalil & Co. was the exclusive broker for this transaction.

Benne Acquires KMMO From Missouri Valley Broadcasting

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | 10:18pm CT

KMMO-AM & FM in Marshall-Sedalia, MO

Benne Media has acquired KMMO-AM & FM in the Marshall-Sedalia, MO area from Missouri Valley Broadcasting, ending more than 40 years of ownership by the seller. The sale closed November 2, and the ownership transition is underway. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Denny Benne's company also operates stations in Sedalia, Warrensburg, Lake of the Ozarks and other Missouri communities. Benne said he hopes to retain KMMO's current programming while adding enhancements for listeners.

John Wilson, who began operating KMMO in 1985, said the time had come to turn over leadership and expressed confidence in Benne's ability to continue the station's community service.

Benne has worked in radio for 44 years and received the Missouri Broadcasters Association's Distinguished Broadcaster Award in 2026.

Wilson thanked listeners and community members for their support over the past four decades and said he believes Benne Media will continue KMMO's tradition of service.

NAB Seeks FCC Clarification on FM Digital Power Limits

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, November 2, 2026 | 3:55pm CT

National Association of Broadcasters (NAB)

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), Xperi and the NRSC are urging the FCC to clarify its interpretation of FM digital power limits, arguing that an apparent change in 2025 has restricted some stations' ability to optimize their operations.

In a November 2 ex parte filing in MB Docket No. 22-405, NAB detailed an October 29 meeting with Media Bureau staff concerning whether hybrid FM digital broadcasts are strictly limited to a total maximum power of -10 dBc under Section 73.404(f) of the Commission's rules.

NAB and Xperi reviewed the FCC's historical interpretation of the rule and asked the Bureau to return to an approach reflected in numerous station-specific letters issued before 2025 granting requests for increased digital power.

The association characterized the more recent interpretation as a "seeming change in 2025 that limits the ability of certain digital radio stations to optimize operations."

Meeting participants included Xperi's Jeff Detweiler and Paul Peyla, Ashruf El-Dinary representing the National Radio Systems Committee, and NAB's David Layer and Associate General Counsel Larry Walke. They met with the Media Bureau's Albert Shuldiner, James Bradshaw and Priscilla Lee.

Layer also updated FCC staff on discussions among NAB, Xperi and aviation stakeholders studying the impact of HD Radio signals on the Aeronautical Radio Navigation Spectrum.

According to the filing, aviation stakeholders have told NAB that compatibility testing is complete. NAB said it expects another meeting with those stakeholders within the next month to discuss their findings.

NYSBA Elects Chris Oliviero Chair for 2027

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, November 2, 2026 | 5:05pm CT

Chris Oliviero

The New York State Broadcasters Association (NYSBA) has elected Audacy Chief Business Officer and New York Market President Chris Oliviero as Chair of its Board of Directors for 2027. The association announced its new officers and directors following its annual Fall Meeting in New York City.

Joining Oliviero on the Executive Committee are Seven Mountains Media Owner and CEO Kristin Cantrell as Vice Chair, Radio; WPIX-TV New York Vice President and General Manager Chris McDonnell as Vice Chair, Television; WNYT-TV and WNYA-TV Albany Vice President and General Manager Jon Hitchcock as Treasurer; and iHeartMedia President of Upstate New York and Mid-Atlantic Robert Morgan as Secretary.

Oliviero succeeds WBBZ-TV Vice President and General Manager Chris Musial, who concludes his term as Chair but will remain on the Board of Directors.

NYSBA also welcomed four new directors: Pamal Broadcasting Chief Operating Officer Chuck Benfer; WDKX-FM Co-Owner Andria Langston; Nexstar Media Group Senior Vice President and Regional Manager Ron Romines; and Salem Media Group General Manager for the New York and Philadelphia markets Laura Sheaffer.

Returning board members include Alan Bishop, Amy Collins, David Feinblatt, Marilu Galvez, Johnny Green Jr., Lew Leone, Eric Lerner, Chad Lopez, Katelin Tinley, Bernie Weiss and Roberto Yanez.

Marc Jaromin of Roundtable Media and Chet Osadchey of the Buffalo Bills will continue as Associate Board Members.

The association also recognized departing directors Ed Levine, LeAnne Markins, Theresa Underwood, Maire Mason and Jason Finkelberg for their service to New York's broadcasting industry.

"This is an exceptional team," said NYSBA President and Executive Director Heidi Raphael. "Chris Oliviero brings vision and deep market leadership to the Chair, and our board reflects the full strength of broadcasting across New York."

Raphael also thanked Musial for his leadership and the departing directors for their contributions, adding that the association is positioned to serve its members and communities throughout 2027.

Coleman Insights Names Barsoian to Validate Support Role

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, November 2, 2026 | 3:34pm CT

Bethany Barsoian

Coleman Insights has named Bethany Barsoian Customer Success Manager for Validate, its attribution platform that helps radio broadcasters measure advertising campaigns' impact on consumer behavior. Barsoian will serve as the primary contact for Validate subscribers, overseeing onboarding, training, technical support and ongoing education.

She will also collaborate with the platform's development and research teams to improve the customer experience and incorporate subscriber feedback.

"Validate is an important part of our commitment to helping broadcasters demonstrate the effectiveness of radio advertising," said Coleman Insights President Warren Kurtzman. "As our subscriber base grows, providing exceptional service and helping customers get the most out of the platform is essential. Bethany will play a critical role in making that happen."

Barsoian's background spans radio, television and digital advertising. She previously supported sales organizations at Cumulus Media in Providence and USA TODAY Co., and consulted with clients at Research Director, Inc.

"I'm excited to join Coleman Insights and help broadcasters turn Validate's powerful attribution data into meaningful results for their advertisers," said Barsoian. "My goal is to make the platform as accessible and valuable as possible for every customer, while ensuring their feedback helps shape its future."

RCS Names Halcomb, Kelly to Senior Leadership Roles

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, November 2, 2026 | 12:25pm CT

Tammy Halcomb and Merideth Kelly

RCS Worldwide has appointed Tammy Halcomb Senior Vice President of Products and Merideth Kelly Senior Vice President of Global Client Experience and Transformation. The broadcast software company said the appointments will support product development and improvements in client service.

Halcomb will report to Chief Technology Officer Chip Jellison and lead RCS Worldwide's global product organization, overseeing strategy and development across its broadcast technology portfolio.

She brings more than 25 years of experience in broadcast technology, enterprise software, advertising automation and artificial intelligence-driven product development. Most recently, she served as Vice President of Product Development at Gemini XIII. Her background also includes senior product leadership positions at WideOrbit and Marketron.

"Tammy is a collaborative leader who brings out the best in the teams around her," said Jellison. "Her ability to listen to customers, align development and product, and deliver solutions that truly move the needle is exactly what we need as we continue to innovate."

Kelly will report to RCS Worldwide CEO and President Susan Larkin. She will oversee global client experience, with responsibility for initiatives aimed at strengthening client relationships, improving service delivery and aligning company capabilities with customer needs.

Kelly has more than two decades of experience in media and technology. At WideOrbit, she advanced from onboarding specialist to Vice President of Strategic Solutions, working across implementation, project management, development and revenue operations, and professional services.

She began her career in radio, broadcast and cable newsrooms, including writing and producing the Emmy-nominated series "Seahawks All Access."

"Merideth's appointment reflects our commitment to putting clients at the center of everything we do and to building the future alongside them," said Larkin. "She brings a rare combination of operational depth and strategic vision, and I'm confident she will transform the way our clients experience RCS Worldwide."

Larkin said the two appointments strengthen both the company's product development and its relationships with the broadcasters and media companies using its technology.

Study: 91% of Marketers, Agencies Commute to Work

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, November 2, 2026 | 11:28am CT

Cumulus Media | Westwood One

Nine in ten marketers and media agency executives now commute to work at least some days, according to new research commissioned by the Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group. The findings are examined by Chief Insights Officer Pierre Bouvard in the group's latest blog post, which connects workplace attendance with opportunities for AM/FM radio advertisers.

An Advertiser Perceptions survey of 304 agency and brand respondents, conducted October 1-13, found that 59% commute all or most days, while 32% commute some days. The combined 91% compares with 63% in April 2022.

The share working in the office all or most days increased from 53% in October 2025, although it declined from 64% in April 2026. Eight percent reported working exclusively from home.

A separate nationally representative Quantilope survey of 1,600 adults ages 18 and older, conducted in October, found that 87% of Americans who commuted before the pandemic currently work outside the home. That places their commuting rate four percentage points below the advertising industry respondents.

However, typical Americans reported more days at the workplace, averaging 4.7 per week compared with 4.2 for marketers and agency executives. Among advertising industry respondents, 51% reported working in the office five days a week.

Bouvard argues that commuting patterns reinforce AM/FM radio's value for advertisers. The blog cites Edison Research's third-quarter 2026 "Share of Ear" report, which found that AM/FM accounted for 81% of ad-supported audio listening in cars and trucks.

Both groups were most likely to work at their workplaces Monday through Thursday, with Friday recording the lowest weekday attendance.

The advertising industry survey also found that 80% of respondents had resumed in-person meetings with media vendors, while 81% had resumed attending in-person conferences and events.

Read the full blog post here.

WKRP Plans Rubber Turkey Drop to Benefit Food Pantry

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, November 2, 2026 | 11:24am CT

WKRP in Cincinnati

Cincinnati's WKRP-FM will bring a signature moment from "WKRP in Cincinnati" to life on Thanksgiving eve, dropping miniature rubber turkeys from a fire truck ladder during a fundraiser in Hamilton, OH.

The "1st Annual WKRP Turkey Drop" is scheduled for 7:30pm Wednesday, November 25, at Riverfront Plaza between Municipal Brew Works and the Casual Pint and an adjacent parking lot, according to reporting by WVXU's John Kiesewetter.

Listeners will be able to purchase a $10 rubber turkey, with details to be announced later. The turkey landing closest to a target will earn a cash prize. All net proceeds from turkey sales and commemorative T-shirts will benefit Butler County's Open Door Food Pantry.

"WKRP is bringing the legend back," said General Manager Jeff Ziesmann, adding that "this time we've got it right."

The promotion draws its inspiration from the sitcom's 1978 Thanksgiving episode, in which a disastrous live-turkey giveaway ends with station manager Arthur Carlson declaring, "As God is my witness, I thought turkeys could fly!"

The real station's event will use rubber birds and a fire truck rather than the fictional promotion's helicopter. WKRP Vice President of Sales Laura Ziesmann said darkness and potential weather concerns made a helicopter an unreliable option.

WKRP host Dave Mason was scheduled to announce the promotion November 2, along with commemorative T-shirts and hats.

The station began broadcasting under the WKRP identity in May and airs on three stations reaching from Dry Ridge, KY, to Dayton, OH. Since its launch, listeners and sitcom fans have repeatedly asked whether it would stage a turkey drop, Kiesewetter reported.

Fisher House Offers Free Veterans Day Radio Special

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, November 2, 2026 | 11:33am CT

Fisher House

Fisher House Foundation's 2026 Veterans Day radio special, "Together in Mission: The Fisher House Journey," is now available for download by stations nationwide. Hosted by nationally syndicated personality Larry O'Connor, the three-hour program is offered without cash or barter requirements.

Produced for Talk radio, the special is available for broadcast on Veterans Day, Wednesday, November 11, or during the surrounding holiday period. Stations can register and download the program at radio.fisherhouse.org.

The program features interviews with wounded veterans, military families and people involved in Fisher House Foundation's work providing free lodging near medical facilities.

Participants include Army veteran Jonathan Turnbull and his wife, Samantha, who discuss his recovery after a 2019 ISIS suicide bombing in Syria left him blind, along with his participation in the Warrior Games. Sven Jacobs recounts his family's experience after his wife suffered a hemorrhagic stroke during pregnancy while they were stationed in Italy, leading to stays at Fisher Houses in Germany and Texas.

Additional interviews explore a Navy veteran's treatment for Wilson disease, a Coast Guard veteran's recovery from a stroke and return to activity through adaptive sports, and a Navy veteran's heart transplantation.

The special also includes conversations with Fisher House Foundation Chairman and CEO Ken Fisher and President Dave Coker about the organization's mission and expansion.

"We spend a lot of time on the radio talking about the men and women who defend this country," said O'Connor. "For Veterans Day, I want listeners to hear directly from them and from the families who have lived through the sacrifices that come with that service. These are extraordinary stories, and Fisher House is part of every one of them."

According to the foundation, its network of more than 100 Fisher Houses has served more than 570,000 families, providing over 13.4 million days of lodging and saving families an estimated $690 million in out-of-pocket expenses.

For program information and immediate download, visit fisherhouse.org.

John B. Wells Tops 2026 Paranormal 13 Show Rankings

RADIO ONLINE | Saturday, October 31, 2026 | 4:20pm CT

Paranormal Radio

Talk Stream Live's Paranormal Radio has released its 2026 "Paranormal 13" rankings, with "Ark, Caravan to Midnight with John B. Wells" leading the Top Shows category. Art Bell U7 Radio ranked first among stations, while "Into The Parabnormal with Jeremy Scott" topped the podcast list.

The annual report ranks paranormal shows, stations and podcasts based on listener sessions through Talk Stream Live's Paranormal Radio streaming platforms, including its website, apps and connected devices. Rankings are limited to programs and stations listed on the service.

Wells moved into the top show position after finishing second in 2025, trading places with "Ground Zero with Clyde Lewis." "Coast to Coast AM with George Noory" remained third, followed by "Into The Parabnormal with Jeremy Scott" and Richard C. Hoagland's "The Other Side of Midnight."

Art Bell U7 Radio retained its lead among stations, followed by Conspiracy Radio and The UN X Network. In podcasts, "Into The Parabnormal" and "Ground Zero" again held the first two positions, with Whitley Strieber's "Dreamland The Edge of the World" placing third.

The rankings cover programming exploring subjects including supernatural phenomena, UFOs, extraterrestrial life, ghosts, cryptozoology, conspiracy theories and unexplained events.

The Paranormal 13 -- Top Shows:

1. Ark, Caravan to Midnight with John B. Wells
2. Ground Zero with Clyde Lewis
3. Coast to Coast AM with George Noory
4. Into The Parabnormal with Jeremy Scott
5. Richard C. Hoagland - The Other Side of Midnight
6. Fade to Black with Jimmy Church
7. Paranormal Soup with Jason Bland
8. Spaced Out Radio with Dave Scott
9. Infinite Plane Society with Tim Ozman
10. Late Night in the Midlands with Michael Vara
11. The Secret Teachings with Ryan Gable
12. Dreamland with Whitley Strieber
13. Lionel

The Paranormal 13 -- Top Stations:

1. Art Bell U7 Radio
2. Conspiracy Radio
3. The UN X Network
4. Ground Zero Plus
5. Art Bell All Day Radio
6. Paranormal UK Radio
7. Para X Radio
8. Anomaly Radio
9. Fringe FM
10. The VARA Network
11. Alien Dreams Radio
12. Roswell UFO Radio
13. BBS Radio

The Paranormal 13 -- Top Podcasts:

1. Into The Parabnormal with Jeremy Scott
2. Ground Zero with Clyde Lewis
3. Dreamland The Edge of the World with Whitley Strieber
4. Richard Syrett Strange Planet
5. Paranormal UK Radio
6. Behind The Paranormal with Paul & Ben Eno
7. Dark History by Bailey Sarian
8. Bigfoot Terror in the Woods
9. Belief Hole Podcast
10. 13 O'Clock Podcast
11. Astonishing Legends
12. American Hauntings Podcast
13. Where Did The Road Go

Valentine Returns to Hubbard as Alexandria-Wadena GM

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 30, 2026 | 2:44pm CT

Kris Valentine

Hubbard Radio has named Kris Valentine as General Manager of its Alexandria and Wadena, MN operations, returning him to the markets where he served as Operations Manager from 2020 to 2023. He and his wife, Chelsea, will also bring the "Kris & Chelsea" show back to mornings on Country KIKV-FM (100.7 KIK-FM).

Valentine will oversee KIKV-FM, KULO-FM, KKWS-FM, KNSP-AM, KWAD-AM and 2060 Digital. Chelsea will lead social media strategy for both markets.

Valentine most recently served as Director of Country Programming for Leighton Media, where he also co-hosted afternoons with Chelsea. He became Program Director of Leighton's KZPK in St. Cloud in December 2023 before being promoted to the group programming role in November 2025.

His earlier experience includes programming KZPK from 2016 to 2018, afternoon hosting positions at KMNB in Minneapolis and KWJJ in Portland, OR, and on-air roles at KYGO in Denver, KEEY in Minneapolis and KHAK in Cedar Rapids.

"I'm incredibly excited to return to Hubbard and take on the General Manager role for Alexandria and Wadena," said Valentine. "I have a lot of history with these markets, and I'm excited to come back, build on what's already there, and help take Alexandria and Wadena to new heights."

Chelsea said returning to the company and the morning show carries particular significance because Alexandria is home. "Returning alongside Kris to bring the Kris & Chelsea Show back to mornings feels like coming full circle," she said. "I'm also excited to serve again as a community ambassador and digital brand strategist."

Hubbard Minnesota President/Region Manager Dan Seeman welcomed the pair's return. "Kris is an incredible talent and programming mind. He has proved it with great success at every stop in his career," said Seeman. "We are so excited to have him lead our heritage radio properties and 2060 Digital in Alexandria and Wadena."

Cumulus Plans ZoneCasting Launch at Boston's WXLO

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, October 30, 2026 | 1:36pm CT

WXLO-FM (104.5 XLO) in Boston

Cumulus Media plans to introduce ZoneCasting technology at WXLO-FM (104.5 XLO) in Boston during the first quarter of 2027, enabling the station to air different commercials simultaneously in separate geographic portions of the market.

The deployment, announced in partnership with Aktira, will allow WXLO to deliver targeted advertising in a designated zone east of Route 128 while listeners outside that area continue to receive the station's primary broadcast.

Advertisers could use the service to promote specific retail locations or offers to listeners within the zone while a different commercial airs elsewhere. Cumulus said the technology will give local, regional and national businesses additional flexibility to tailor campaigns within Greater Boston.

The initiative also complements Cumulus' use of Xperi's DTS AutoStage platform, which provides near-real-time information about in-car radio listening. "Cumulus is bringing together two complementary technologies to make local radio more relevant and measurable," said Cumulus Media Vice President/Market Manager Bob Goodell.

Goodell said more than 90,000 connected vehicles in Boston provide daily radio listening data through DTS AutoStage, offering insight into where in-car listening occurs. ZoneCasting will allow the station to deliver selected advertising and content to specific portions of the market.

"Together, they allow our customers to better take advantage of where people are listening, not just where they live," he said.

"Cumulus is demonstrating what the next generation of local radio can look like," said GeoBroadcast Solutions CEO Chris Devine. "This deployment preserves the broad reach of FM while giving the station greater flexibility to serve the distinct communities within a large, diverse market."