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Top Radio News
Jack Speer Retires from NPR After More Than 25 Years
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, July 3, 2025 | 5:41pm CT |
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NPR's longtime newscaster Jack Speer has announced his retirement, closing a chapter on a career that spanned more than a quarter-century and left an enduring mark on public radio journalism. Speer, whose steady presence and clear delivery became a familiar voice to millions of listeners, joined NPR in 1998. He spent the early years of his career in local radio before making a name for himself as a business reporter at WTOP in Washington, DC.
"I came in to do a morning business segment with Bob Edwards," Speer recalled in a recent conversation with NPR's Ari Shapiro. That initial role soon evolved into a distinguished run as a reporter and later as a trusted newscaster, anchoring NPR's afternoon news updates for nearly two decades.
One of the most defining moments of Speer's career came in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, when he worked closely with NPR host Scott Simon to help guide listeners through a period of national crisis. "I referred to it as a kind of national handholding," Speer said. During that time, NPR aired special overnight call-in programs that offered both information and comfort.
Throughout his tenure, Speer emphasized the unique demands of the newscaster role - the need for precision, rapid response, and the ability to tell compelling stories within tightly confined time slots.
"We can be 30 seconds from air, and everything changes," he said. "You have to get it right, every time."
Beyond the newsroom, Speer has shared his experience with students as an adjunct instructor at Johns Hopkins University, where he teaches business communications and ethics. He says he plans to devote more time to education and personal interests following his retirement.
Though he admits he'll miss the pace and pressure of daily deadlines, Speer expressed gratitude for his time at NPR. "It's been an honor," he said. "I'm grateful for the opportunities, and I wish everyone the best."
NPR's Ari Shapiro summed up Speer's legacy succinctly: "Jack leaves behind an enormous legacy built on accuracy, consistency, and trust."
KMBY to Celebrate 90th Anniversary with Birthday Bash
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, July 3, 2025 | 2:24pm CT |
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One of Monterey Bay's most enduring broadcast institutions, KMBY (1240 AM and 106.7 FM), is turning 90 -- and the station is inviting the entire community to celebrate the milestone with a two-day birthday party next weekend. The festivities will take place at KMBY Studios at 651 Cannery Row, Monterey, on Friday, July 11 from 12-6pm, and Saturday, July 12 from 10am-7pm. The event is free and open to the public.
The celebration will include birthday cake, refreshments, behind-the-scenes studio tours, on-air remotes, and meet-and-greets with KMBY DJs from throughout the station's nine-decade history. Attendees can expect appearances from beloved radio personalities, including those who helped define KMBY's golden era, along with memorabilia and historical displays documenting the station's legacy.
Founded in 1935 as KDON and rebranded to KMBY just three years later, the station quickly became a mainstay for music and local news on the Central Coast. Notably, it was partially owned for 26 years by legendary entertainer Bing Crosby.
Since its acquisition by HYS Incorporated in 2020, under the leadership of longtime radio veterans Chris and Denise White, KMBY has doubled down on its commitment to local programming and community engagement.
"Our Local Flair lineup is made up entirely of local talent," said Denise White, President of HYS. "This isn't just a birthday party for a radio station-it's a celebration of the community that built us and the community we're proud to serve."
iHeartPodcasts Launches ''American History Hotline''
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, July 3, 2025 | 2:30pm CT |
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iHeartPodcasts has launched a new original series titled American History Hotline, a weekly show hosted by musician and history enthusiast Bob Crawford. The podcast debuts today with two inaugural episodes that take listeners on a deep dive into some of the most curious and critical moments in U.S. history.
The new series aims to answer listener-submitted questions about American history, covering topics from the Revolutionary War to modern cultural phenomena. Each episode features leading historians and subject-matter experts who bring fresh insight and perspective to historical narratives.
The premiere episode, Dead on the 4th of July, explores the striking coincidence of both Thomas Jefferson and John Adams dying on July 4, 1826-exactly 50 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Historian Lindsay Chervinsky joins Crawford to unpack the story and discuss other lesser-known tales surrounding Independence Day.
Episode two, Does the Constitution Prevent a Dictator, features Jeffrey Rosen, President and CEO of the National Constitution Center. Rosen breaks down how the U.S. Constitution was designed to guard against authoritarianism, and the role of political norms and public accountability in maintaining a stable democracy.
Crawford, best known as the bassist for the Grammy-nominated folk-rock band The Avett Brothers, brings a unique blend of storytelling and scholarship to the podcast. Beyond his music career, Crawford is deeply engaged in history and civic education. He co-hosts the podcast The Road to Now and previously led Founding Son: John Quincy's America, a limited series exploring the life of John Quincy Adams.
Episodes of American History Hotline will be released weekly on Wednesdays and are available on the iHeartRadio app and across all major podcast platforms.
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Ross MacLeod Named OM for Alpha Media in Portland OR
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 2, 2025 | 4:17pm CT |
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Alpha Media Portland names Ross MacLeod as its new Operations Manager. In addition to his leadership duties, MacLeod will also serve as Content Director for News/Talk KXL-FM and Sports outlet KXTG-AM. MacLeod joins the company with a strong programming background, most recently serving as Program Director for iHeartMedia's WBGG (Big 105.9) in Miami.
MacLeod's resume also includes roles at KJAQ (96.5 JACK-FM) in Seattle, KYRV (93.7 The River) in Sacramento, and a previous five-year stint at KFBW-FM (105.9 The Brew) in Portland.
"I'm looking forward to working with some of the amazing talent we have in Portland and leading this cluster to new heights," MacLeod said. "KXL is a heritage News/Talk leader in Portland, and I couldn't be more honored to be part of this team."
NYPR Appoints John Rose as Board Chair, Adds Trustees
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 2, 2025 | 10:04am CT |
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New York Public Radio (NYPR) has announced a series of leadership changes, including the appointment of longtime trustee John Rose as Chair of the Board of Trustees, along with the addition of three new board members and two newly named Vice Chairs.
John Rose, a Senior Advisor at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), brings decades of media and consulting experience to his new role. He previously served 20 years as a Managing Director and Senior Partner at BCG and co-founded Tenetic, a syndicated data services company serving the TV and radio sectors. Rose also holds roles on several boards, including the Metropolitan Opera, Playwrights Horizons, and the Citizens Budget Commission, and teaches media at NYU Stern.
"In my 30 years as a Trustee at NYPR, I've had the privilege of watching this organization become more innovative, vital, and essential to our city and our audiences," said Rose. "I'm honored to step into this new role as Chair at such a critical time for public broadcasting... I am excited to have [our new trustees] with us as we forge the next chapter in NYPR's evolution and that of the industry more broadly."
Joining Rose in leadership are newly named Vice Chairs Anna Quindlen, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author, and Carl Weisbrod, a veteran of New York City's urban planning and housing policy sectors.
NYPR also welcomed three new members to its Board of Trustees:
- Gary Knell, former President and CEO of NPR, Sesame Workshop, and National Geographic.
- Jenna Weiss-Berman, podcast industry leader and co-founder of Pineapple Street Studios, now Head of Podcasts at Paper Kite Productions.
- Jeremy Kuriloff, Managing Director and Partner at BCG, with a focus on consumer, media, and private equity.
LaFontaine E. Oliver, President and CEO of NYPR, praised the appointments amid a turbulent landscape for public broadcasting.
"With his deep media and business experience and long tenure as a Trustee, John is the right person to steward the Board through this consequential moment for public broadcasting," Oliver said. "The essential services we provide-trusted local news, cultural and educational programming, and free and accessible classical music-are needed more than ever."
The leadership updates come as NYPR enters its 101st year and continues to navigate rapid media industry shifts and funding challenges.
Melissa Chase Departs Audacy Houston Amid Restructuring
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 2, 2025 | 3:56pm CT |
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Melissa Chase, Vice President of Programming for Audacy Houston, has exited the company as part of a round of staffing reductions within the cluster. Chase's departure comes alongside the exit of Jay Michaels, who served as Assistant Brand Manager for KHMX (Mix 96.5) and KKHH (95.7 The Spot). Audacy has not commented publicly on the changes.
Chase joined Audacy Houston in June 2021 as Brand Manager for KKHH and KHMX, while also hosting afternoons on Mix 96.5. She was promoted to Vice President of Programming in February 2023, taking on additional oversight of KILT-FM (100.3 The Bull).
Prior to her time in Houston, Chase spent over a decade in Richmond, VA, serving as Program Director and morning host at 103.7 WURV through its various format shifts from AAA to Hot AC. She also held the role of Operations Manager for SummitMedia Richmond and programmed Classic Rock 96.5 WKLR. Earlier in her career, she was on-air at WRVQ (Q94) in Richmond, rising to Assistant Program Director and Music Director.
Chase's broadcasting background also includes on-air roles at iHeartMedia stations in Richmond, New Haven, Harrisonburg, Miami, and Houston.
Kannon Launches New Weekday Program ''The Kannon Show''
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 2, 2025 | 9:57am CT |
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Kannon and Kannon Worldwide LLC have announced the debut of "The Kannon Show," a new weekday radio program built for CHR and Hot AC outlets seeking high-energy, personality-driven content and flexibility in programming. Airing weekdays, the show is hosted by Kannon, a veteran radio personality known for his tenure on the syndicated "Open House Party" and most recently, afternoons at WSTR (Star 94) in Atlanta.
"I'm beyond pumped to connect with listeners and share my genuine passion and enthusiasm for the special connection radio creates," said Kannon. "This show is celeb-powered and designed to sound hyper-local, seamlessly blending into the unique music and vibe of each station. Let's create some loyal fans."
Affiliates will receive the program via segmented digital delivery, allowing them to maintain full control over music selection and clock management. This flexible format enables stations to integrate the show into their existing sound without compromising local identity.
Ad sales and syndication for The Kannon Show will be managed by Key-United and United Stations.
Salem Media Group Launches ''The Scott Jennings Show''
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 2, 2025 | 1:30pm CT |
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Salem Media Group has announced the debut of "The Scott Jennings Show," a new weekday program joining the Salem Radio Network (SRN) lineup beginning Monday, July 14. The one-hour show will air from 2-3pm ET and will also be available on-demand via the Salem Podcast Network (SPN).
Jennings, a conservative political commentator and strategist, is known for his appearances on CNN where he regularly represents right-leaning viewpoints. His new show aims to deliver what he describes as "fire and facts," bringing a direct challenge to what he calls "the liberal machine."
"We're going on offense," said Jennings. "Every day, I'll take calls, interview big names, and take the fight directly to the liberal machine. It's time to bust the narratives and bring back some plain old common sense."
The program will replace "The Jack Posobiec Show" in the SRN live broadcast schedule. Posobiec will continue to contribute exclusive podcast content through the Salem Podcast Network.
"Scott Jennings is a disruptor," said Phil Boyce, Senior Vice President at Salem. "He's the Lone Ranger of the CNN panel, armed with facts and fearless in delivery. He doesn't just survive in hostile territory - he dominates. Now, with a national platform on Salem, Scott becomes a daily fixture in the battle to save the country."
Jennings brings extensive political experience to the role. A former White House Special Assistant to President George W. Bush, he has worked on four presidential campaigns and is considered a seasoned Republican strategist.
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Eric White Named PD for Charlotte, Raleigh Rock Outlets
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 1, 2025 | 7:28pm CT |
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iHeartMedia has appointed Eric "E" White as Program Director for three of its Rock outlets in North Carolina: Alternative WEND (106.5 The End) and Classic Rock WRFX (99.7 The Fox) in Charlotte, and Classic Rock WRDU (106.1) in Raleigh. White steps into the role following the departure of Chris Crowley earlier this year. His appointment marks a return to iHeartMedia, where he began his career as a programming intern in Philadelphia.
"I'm honored to return to iHeartMedia and lead these iconic stations," White said. "The Carolinas offer a rich musical heritage and an engaged audience. I look forward to elevating the listener experience and driving growth in these vibrant markets."
White brings over a decade of programming and on-air experience across various formats. He previously served as Music Director, Imaging Director, and afternoon host at CHR station KKDM (107.5 Kiss FM) in Des Moines, and held an evening slot at 101.3 KDWB in Minneapolis. Most recently, he was morning host at 97.1 KZHT in Salt Lake City, departing during iHeartMedia's restructuring in late 2024.
"We searched nationwide to fill this vital role," said Trevor Morini, Senior Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia Charlotte & Raleigh.. "Eric's fresh ideas and passion for the formats were immediately evident, and I'm excited for the next chapter for these heritage brands with Eric at the helm."
"This is a dream opportunity that I still have to pinch myself about," said White. "It feels incredible to be back at iHeart, especially in a beautiful place like the Carolinas, working with the formats I love. From the on-air lineup to the management crew, this is a super team, and I'm excited to help take us to the next level. Let's get to work!"
Civic Media Expands into Michigan's Upper Peninsula
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 1, 2025 | 1:54pm CT |
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Civic Media has announced a major expansion into Michigan's Upper Peninsula through an asset purchase agreement filed with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to acquire five radio stations from J&J Broadcasting, based in Iron River, WI. The acquisition will be completed under the newly-formed Michigan Civic Media Alliance, a venture led by Civic Media with investment support from the Michigan Independent Media Group (MIMG).
The stations involved in the deal include Country WJMS (590/92.1) and Classic Rock WIMI (99.7) in Ironwood, MI; Country WUPY (101.1) in Ontonagon, MI; and Adult Hits WKMJ (Mix 93.5) and News/Talk & Sports WMPL (920/107.7) in Hancock-Houghton, MI.
"These heritage radio stations have served their local communities for years and are strong partners with local businesses and organizations," said Civic Media Vice President of Operations Kory Hartmann. "We intend to continue that legacy of service and add a wider array of products to keep people in touch with their community."
Civic Media CEO Sage Weil emphasized the organization's mission to invest in underserved markets: "At Civic Media we believe in the importance of local media, and investing in rural areas where quality news and information is too often hard to come by. We are excited by this opportunity to expand our network into the upper peninsula."
Jason Franklin, General Partner at MIMG, added, "MIMG's launch was inspired in part by Civic Media's leadership in sustaining independent media in Wisconsin. We're excited to be formally partnering with them for their first expansion into the great state of Michigan and to work with them to preserve and expand vibrant local media across our state."
Outgoing owner Jerry Hackman, President of J&J Broadcasting, reflected on the sale: "We are very pleased to announce the sale of the stations, and we could not be more pleased with the buyer. We are very comfortable turning over the customer and employee relationships over to Civic Media as they continue to stress the importance of local and small town radio. I'd like to sincerely thank everyone that has supported us in various ways over the last 42 years."
Upon regulatory approval, Civic Media will own and operate a total of 30 stations across three states: 23 in Wisconsin, two in northern Minnesota, and five in Michigan.
WLS-AM Partners with FOX News Audio to Expand Programming
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 1, 2025 | 9:41am CT |
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News/Talk 890 WLS-AM has announced a new partnership with FOX News Audio to bring a range of national news and talk content to Chicago radio audiences. The collaboration launched today and includes the addition of The Guy Benson Show, airing live weekdays from 2-5pm, along with hourly news updates, breaking news coverage, and long-form specials.
The move enhances WLS-AM's existing lineup by integrating FOX News Audio's nationally recognized programming while maintaining the station's commitment to local news and talk content.
"We are thrilled to deliver the FOX News Audio product to our listeners, as it perfectly aligns with 890 WLS-AM and will give the audience a news service that meets their expectations," said Marv Nyren, Regional Vice President and Market Manager for Cumulus Chicago.
Stephanie Tichenor, Program Director at WLS-AM, added, "We are delighted to begin this partnership with FOX News Audio on the Big 89. FOX News is a perfect fit for WLS-AM audiences."
John Sylvester, Senior Vice President of FOX News Audio, echoed the enthusiasm: "FOX News Audio is excited to partner with WLS-AM, bringing our signature talk programming, breaking news coverage, top-of-the-hour updates, and long-form specials to better serve our dedicated listeners in Chicago."
WZGV Charlotte Rebrands as InsideTheGame.bet
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 1, 2025 | 9:27am CT |
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WZGV-AM, formerly known as "ESPN Charlotte 730 The Game," has officially rebranded as "InsideTheGame.bet," becoming the first station in the Charlotte market dedicated to sports betting content. The station's new identity launches in partnership with VSiN, The Sports Betting Network, bringing 24/7 programming focused on real-time odds, expert analysis, and betting insights.
"This new format is unlike anything in the market," said Mario Washington, General Manager of WZGV-AM. "Leveraging premier sports betting content from VSiN, WZGV-AM InsideTheGame.bet will be Charlotte's sports information station. With the gold standard in sports betting content, we can give listeners the real-time news and analysis they need to make more informed wagers - straight from the sports betting capital of the world in Las Vegas."
The transition marks a significant milestone for both the station and VSiN, adding Charlotte -- a top 25 U.S. market -- to VSiN's growing national footprint. With this addition, VSiN programming is now broadcast on more than 350 stations across 46 states, reaching nearly 90% of the U.S. radio market.
"Charlotte's passionate sports fan base is ready for sports talk radio that goes beyond hot takes and brings them inside the action of the game," said Bill Adee, CEO of VSiN. "We're thrilled to partner with WZGV-AM 730 to deliver the credible, actionable sports betting information that our network is known for to this new audience."
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Ray Hopkins Elected to Board of Broadcasters Foundation
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 1, 2025 | 3:07pm CT |
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The Broadcasters Foundation of America has announced the election of Ray Hopkins, President of Paramount U.S. Distribution, to its Board of Directors. With more than three decades of experience in the media industry, Hopkins brings extensive leadership and distribution expertise to the Foundation's mission of aiding broadcast professionals in need.
At Paramount, Hopkins leads domestic content distribution strategy and oversees agreements across a portfolio that includes CBS, BET, Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, Paramount , and Pluto TV. He also manages distribution for the CBS Television Network to over 30 affiliated station groups nationwide.
"Ray is a leader in broadcasting, and we are grateful that he is donating his time and energy to our charitable mission," said Scott Herman, Chair of the Broadcasters Foundation. "Ray's addition to our Board of Directors will inspire fresh ideas on how to effectively reach broadcasters across America with our message of hope."
Hopkins expressed his appreciation for the opportunity, saying, "I am honored to join the Board of the Broadcasters Foundation of America, an organization that provides vital assistance to professionals in our industry facing critical need. As a long-time supporter, I look forward to deepening my commitment and helping expand awareness and contributions to the Foundation's essential mission."
Prior to joining Paramount, Hopkins served as Chief Operating Officer of the YES Network from 2005 to 2013, where he handled daily operations and negotiated all distribution deals. Earlier, he was Executive Vice President of Affiliate Sales and Marketing at Gemstar-TV Guide. He currently also serves on the board of the T. Howard Foundation and is a Broadcasting + Cable Hall of Fame inductee.
The Broadcasters Foundation of America is supported by a distinguished Board of Directors comprising executives from across the broadcasting industry. For more information about the Foundation's work, to apply for aid, or to make a donation, visit broadcastersfoundation.org.
New eBook Offers Updated Career Guide for Radio Industry
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 1, 2025 | 4:11pm CT |
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A new free eBook aims to modernize outdated career advice for those considering a future in the radio and digital audio industries. "SOUND ADVICE: A Guide to Navigating Careers in the Modern and Future Radio Digital Media Landscape" is a 40-page guide written by veteran broadcaster Earl Pilkington and released through Radio Copy Paste Magazine.
Pilkington, who has more than 40 years of experience in broadcasting, says most radio career guides "haven't been updated since the 1990s."
The free downloadable resource is tailored for high school and university students considering careers in traditional broadcast roles as well as emerging digital audio fields such as podcasting, streaming, and AI-driven voice technologies.
The guide includes an overview of roles in programming, news, promotions, engineering, sales, management, and digital content, as well as exploration of new tech-forward positions including transmedia storytellers, streaming platform architects, and voice tech specialists. Also included are tips for building a career path through education, internships, and self-directed learning.
Pilkington describes the eBook as "an up-to-date, global look at where radio is heading-and how students can find their place in it." The guide is also recommended for media educators and career counselors helping students explore opportunities in audio media.
"SOUND ADVICE" is available for free download at radiocopywriters.com.
''Sunday Night Slow Jams'' Adds Five New Affiliates
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 1, 2025 | 4:17pm CT |
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Benztown has announced the continued expansion of "Sunday Night Slow Jams," the country's leading weekend radio show, with five new stations joining the lineup in key markets across Florida, Tennessee, Louisiana, and Virginia.
The newly added affiliates include: WMBX-FM (X102.3) in West Palm Beach, WKVL-FM in Knoxville, WJZM-FM in Nashville, WBOK-AM in New Orleans, and WWTB-AM (105.3 The Beat) in Tri-Cities VA.
With these additions, "Sunday Night Slow Jams" is now broadcast on over 200 stations in the U.S. and internationally. The show features a blend of classic and contemporary slow jams hosted by R Dub!, whose engaging style and listener interaction -- particularly the "Oral Expressions" dedications segment -- has helped build a loyal global fan base.
Mark McCray, Program Director for WMBX-FM in West Palm Beach, expressed enthusiasm about the addition: "This has been a long time coming. I have been a fan of R Dub! and have seen him grow his show over the years. Therefore, we are excited to have him join the lineup of amazing talent on our station. Sunday nights will never be the same!!"
The show is already heard in major markets such as Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Baltimore, and continues to grow its presence as a weekend staple for lovers of slow jam R&B and romantic radio content.
''Reality with the King'' Joins The Black Effect PN
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 1, 2025 | 2:02pm CT |
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Carlos King's hit podcast "Reality with the King" has joined Charlamagne Tha God's The Black Effect Podcast Network, a move that brings one of reality television's most buzzworthy podcasts to a broader audience through iHeartMedia. The announcement was made by King during an appearance on "The Breakfast Club," confirming that new and previous episodes are now available on the iHeartRadio app and all major podcast platforms.
Produced by King's Kingdom Reign Entertainment, the podcast features candid interviews with reality TV personalities, franchise deep dives, and commentary from King himself, who has executive produced top-rated seasons of The Real Housewives and launched OWN's Love & Marriage franchise.
"The Black Effect Network represents everything I believe in - elevating Black voices and creating space for real, unfiltered conversations," said King. "'Reality with the King' has always been about giving people the tea they can't get anywhere else, and now we can serve it to an even bigger audience on a platform that truly understands our culture."
Since its 2022 debut, Reality with the King has surpassed 7 million downloads, offering fans of The Real Housewives, Love & Marriage, The Valley, and other unscripted favorites an insider's view of the genre.
Charlamagne Tha God, founder of The Black Effect, welcomed the partnership, saying, "The Black Effect Podcast Network was built to amplify Black voices who move culture forward, and 'Reality with the King' fits that vision. Our lineup is a reflection of real, unapologetic authenticity."
Dollie S. Bishop, President of The Black Effect Podcast Network, added, "We're thrilled to welcome 'Reality with the King' to a platform that aims to inspire, inform, and empower. This podcast brings funny, unfiltered commentary on the biggest reality TV and pop culture moments."
The podcast is distributed by iHeartPodcasts and continues to be available on the iHeartRadio app and across all podcast platforms.
Podcast Ad Spending Hits 11-Year High Among Brands
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 30, 2025 | 2:29pm CT |
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Marketer and agency interest in podcast advertising has surged to its highest level in more than a decade, according to the latest annual study from Advertiser Perceptions commissioned by Cumulus Media | Westwood One's Audio Active Group.
Conducted in June 2025 among 302 marketers and media buyers, the study reveals a dramatic rise in podcast ad engagement and intent. Currently, 78% of agencies and advertisers are actively running podcast campaigns -- up from just 10% in 2015, when the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) launched its first Podcast Upfront.
Podcast ad consideration is also at an all-time high, with 74% of respondents saying they are likely to invest in podcast advertising, and 69% confirming they plan to do so within the next six months. That's a sevenfold increase from 2015, when only 10% reported similar intentions.
"Podcast advertising has gone from experimental to essential," said Pierre Bouvard, Chief Insights Officer at Cumulus Media. "But despite the growth in participation, investment levels remain low relative to the opportunity."
Indeed, the study warns that while more brands are active in podcasting, many are still under-spending. A recent Q1 2025 report by Magellan AI shows that even among top 500-ranked shows, average brand spend was only $300,000 per month. Meanwhile, the 1,024 new podcast advertisers that quarter averaged just $42,100 -- enough for only about 2.1 million impressions, far below the 5 million needed to conduct effective brand impact studies.
The report cites legendary BBDO media executive Arnie Semsky's "5% solution" as a guidepost for growth. Semsky once advised brands to allocate at least 5% of their digital media budgets to emerging platforms -- in his era, cable; today, podcasting.
"Brands may be dipping their toes into the podcast waters," the blog notes, "but it's time they dive in with real commitment."
Read the entire blog post here.
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