Nielsen Ratings

August 2026

Nielsen Ratings

July 2026 Trends

Madison WI

Chattanooga TN

Huntsville AL

Jackson MS

Top Radio News

Radio News Salaries Rise for Second Straight Year

Radio news salaries increased for the second consecutive year in 2025, rising 7.64% and outpacing the 2.9% U.S. inflation rate, according to the latest RTDNA/Newhouse School at Syracuse University Survey.

The increase was considerably smaller than the 14.5% jump reported a year earlier. News reporters, sports anchors and sports reporters recorded the largest average salary gains, while news producers experienced the steepest decline. Average producer pay fell by nearly $10,000 to the low $50,000 range.

News Director salaries also declined on average, largely because of a sharp drop in the highest salary reported for the position. Median news director pay, however, increased slightly.

The survey found a widening salary gap between commercial and non-commercial radio. In the largest markets, average salaries at non-commercial stations were 30.6% higher than those at commercial outlets. Researchers said the change was primarily attributable to falling commercial station salaries rather than significant gains at non-commercial stations.

Results by market size were mixed. Major markets reported salary declines for most positions but continued to offer the highest pay overall, while large markets recorded the strongest gains.

Starting salaries also slipped. Average and median pay for employees entering radio news with no full-time experience fell more than 8%, returning to roughly 2024 levels. At the same time, the minimum starting salary reported by stations increased nearly 24%.

More radio newsroom employees were working under contracts, while the use of non-compete agreements declined for most positions. Sports anchors were an exception, with non-compete use increasing for that position.

Finding employees remains a challenge for many stations. More than one-quarter of news directors and general managers with job openings said hiring had become more difficult, increasing to more than one-third among commercial stations. About 29% said they were unable to find the right candidates for available positions.

The annual survey was conducted during the fourth quarter of 2025 and included responses from more than 1,100 television stations and nearly 600 radio stations. The research is conducted by RTDNA and the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.

BFOA Sets Chicago Media Mixer for October 7

BFOA Media Mixer

The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) will hold its next Media Mixer on October 7 at the Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago, featuring iHeartMedia Chairman and CEO Bob Pittman as a special guest.

The event, scheduled from 5:30-7:30pm CT, will serve as a kickoff to the Radio Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony the following evening. Pittman is among this year's Radio Hall of Fame inductees.

Pittman will participate in a Q&A with Premiere Networks' nationally syndicated morning personality Fred of "The Fred Show." Attendees will also have an opportunity to explore the museum's interactive exhibit, "The Evolution of Late-Night Television."

"With many executives in Chicago for the next night's Radio Hall of Fame, we expect this to be our most exciting Media Mixer to date," said BFOA President Tim McCarthy. "We are especially thankful to Bob for giving us his time and providing this rare opportunity for junior professionals to meet and interact with him."

The BFOA Media Mixer series is designed to bring together broadcast professionals while giving those earlier in their careers an opportunity to meet and network with industry executives, on-air personalities and peers. Previous events have been held in New York, Los Angeles and Cleveland.

Admission to the Chicago Media Mixer is free, with support from sponsors including the Illinois Broadcasters Association. Space is limited and advance registration is required.

The Radio Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will follow on October 8 in Chicago.

CRB Names 2026-27 Board of Directors

Country Radio Broadcasters

Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. (CRB) has announced its 2026-27 Board of Directors, adding four new members to the group that oversees the organization and its annual Country Radio Seminar (CRS).

Returning officers include Townsquare Media's Kurt Johnson as President, Country's Radio Coach's John Shomby as Vice President and The Center for Sales Strategy's Matt Sunshine as Secretary.

Joining the board are Travis Daily of Cumulus Media, Shelley Hargis of BBR Music Group, Jay Cruz of Big Machine Records/Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment and Mike Molinar of Big Machine Music.

"Our board represents so many different perspectives across country radio and the music industry, and that range of experience is incredibly important to the work we do," said Johnson. "I'm grateful to each of these leaders for their service, and I'm excited about the ideas, conversations, and collaboration as we continue to build the future of CRB and CRS."

The complete board also includes Chuck Aly, Country Aircheck; Justin Chase, Beasley Media Group; George Couri, Triple 8 Management; Tim Foisset, Spotify; Gator Harrison, K-LOVE; Debra Herman, Apple Music; Kenny Jay, Albright & O'Malley & Brenner; Jennifer Johnson, Riser House Entertainment; Ashley Layfield, WFUS/Tampa and WUBL/Atlanta; Jon Loba, BMG; Mike McVay, McVay Media; Brent Michaels, KUZZ/Bakersfield; Damon Moberly, MCA; Jordan Pettit, Big Loud; Rod Phillips, iHeartCountry; Joel Raab, Joel Raab Country Radio & Media; Tim Roberts, Audacy; Greg Strassell, Hubbard Radio; RJ Meacham, Summit House Entertainment; Stacy Waugh, Big Loud; Allison Warren, Cumulus Media; and Kristen Williams, Warner Music Nashville.

Charlie Morgan will continue as Board Member Emeritus.

The board represents radio, record labels, streaming platforms, management and other sectors of the country music industry and works throughout the year in support of CRB and CRS.

CRS 2027 is scheduled for March 17-19 at the Omni Nashville Hotel.

Topic, Hosts Drive Podcast Choices, Edison Finds

Edison Research

Podcast topic and host are the two most important factors for U.S. weekly podcast consumers when choosing a show to listen to or watch, according to new data from Edison Research at SSRS.

Edison Podcast Metrics found that 64% of weekly podcast consumers consider a show's topic important when selecting a podcast. Edison said the findings underscore the importance of creators clearly defining and marketing their subject matter as they compete for audiences across a growing number of podcast titles.

The show's host ranked second, cited as important by 53% of weekly podcast consumers. Edison noted that its previous audio and podcast research has consistently demonstrated the role hosts play in attracting and retaining audiences.

Featured guests were the third-leading consideration, with 38% saying guests are important when deciding whether to try a podcast.

Other elements of podcast presentation ranked considerably lower. Just 12% of weekly consumers said a podcast trailer is important to their selection, while 11% cited the appeal of the show's cover art.

Whether a podcast is appropriate for children ranked last among the factors highlighted by Edison, at 7%.

The findings come from Edison Podcast Metrics, the company's ongoing measurement service tracking podcast listening and viewing among U.S. consumers.

Bob & Sheri to End Syndication After 30 Years

L-R: Kary Bowser, Heather Furr, Lamar Richardson, Max Sweeten, Sheri Lynch, and Tony Garcia

The syndicated "Bob & Sheri Show" will end its radio syndication run on December 31, 2026, after 30 years and transition to a paid direct-to-consumer model beginning in January.

The show's approximately 50 affiliates have been notified of the decision. The move will end a syndication run that began in 1996, although the program's roots stretch back to 1992, when Sheri Lynch joined Bob Lacey for mornings at then-AC WBT-FM (Sunny 107.9) in Charlotte.

"It was a difficult decision to make," said Now Media co-founder and Director of Syndication Tony Garcia. "We were among the first shows to syndicate successfully, the first AC morning show, and the first to feature a woman in the lead role."

Garcia said some affiliates have carried the program for nearly three decades. "Sheri and I have determined the time is right for us to bow out. We thank our legacy and our more recent affiliates for their support."

Lynch and Garcia said changing media consumption habits and advertising economics were major factors in the decision. Since launching Now Media in 2017, they said advertising revenue for "Bob & Sheri" has declined between 20% and 40%, while members of the show's staff have taken pay cuts since 2020.

"We have been closely following the data from Edison Research, Tom Webster at Sounds Profitable, as well as the research projects we've commissioned with Fred and Paul Jacobs, and determined this is the right time to become a direct-to-consumer brand," Lynch said.

The show will move from its current free, advertising-supported distribution model to a paid direct-to-listener subscription service in January 2027.

"We're excited about bringing the show directly to them, when and where they want to listen," Lynch added. "We will miss radio, but we're incredibly excited about the new chapter ahead."

Radio Roxboro Owner David Bradsher Dies at 84

David Bradsher

Longtime Roxboro, NC broadcaster and Radio Roxboro owner and General Manager John David "Dave" Bradsher died Saturday, September 12, at his home with his family by his side. He was 84.

Bradsher had been a fixture on Roxboro radio for more than three decades after purchasing hometown stations WRXO and WKRX in 1992. Radio Roxboro remembered him as a familiar voice whose commitment to Roxboro and Person County was matched by his "large smile and unforgettable personality."

A Person County native, Bradsher began his radio career at age 16, working part-time at WRXO for Harold Taylor. After graduating from Roxboro High School, where he played trombone in the band, he attended Elon College and served in the Army National Guard.

His broadcasting career later took him to WSIC in Statesville, where he became Program Director. Bradsher subsequently worked in Reidsville and Roanoke Rapids launching new radio stations before returning to Statesville as General Manager of WSIC, WFMX and other properties operated by Statesville Broadcasting Company.

In 1983, Bradsher became a station owner with his purchase of WRNC in Reidsville. Two years later, he moved to Raleigh to work in sports sales for Capitol Broadcasting Company.

The opportunity to return home arrived in 1992, when Bradsher purchased WRXO and WKRX in Roxboro from Wharton Winstead. He would remain closely identified with the stations and the community for the next 34 years.

Person Family Medical Center, one of the local organizations that worked with Bradsher and WKRX over the years, credited him with using local radio to help promote community events, services and health information. The organization remembered his dedication to local broadcasting and his efforts to keep Person County connected.

Bradsher was a member of Roxboro Baptist Church, a Mason and Shriner and a former member of the Rotary Club of Roxboro. He was also an avid fan of University of North Carolina football and basketball and the Carolina Panthers.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret Daniel Bradsher; sons David Bradsher Jr. and Matthew Bradsher; bonus sons Guy Ferguson and Frederick Ferguson; brothers Tim Bradsher and Marcus Bradsher; grandson Nicholas Bradsher; and extended family.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Person High School Band.

Bleav Names Jim Thompson VP of Sales

Jim Thompson

Bleav has named Jim Thompson Vice President of Sales, overseeing the company's advertising sales organization and revenue efforts across its audio, video and social platforms.

Thompson joins Bleav from Gemini XIII, where he served as Vice President of Sales across the company's podcasting, radio and premium audio businesses. Previously, he held sales roles at The Athletic, working across podcasts, digital and newsletters, and at Cadence13, where he specialized in direct-response advertising and large-scale brand activations.

His background also includes sports advertising sales at ESPN New York 98.7 FM, where he handled advertising and sponsorships across ESPN programming and broadcasts of the New York Jets, Knicks and Rangers. Thompson began his career in New York radio at WOR and later served as Sales Manager for Salem Media's New York stations.

"Jim brings exactly the kind of sales leadership and experience we want as Bleav continues to grow," said Bleav Founder and CEO Bron Heussenstamm. "He understands both sports and non-sports, podcasts, creators and advertisers, and has built strong relationships throughout the industry."

In his new role, Thompson will lead Bleav's internal sales team, oversee advertising and sponsorship initiatives and manage relationships with the company's third-party sales partners.

"Bleav has built an incredible network of creators, athletes and content with tremendous opportunity ahead," said Thompson. "I'm excited to join Bron and the Bleav team, work with our sales organization and partners, and build on that foundation to create even more opportunities for advertisers, creators and the company."

Norsan Closes $3.5 Million Purchase of KGSR

Norsan Media

Norsan Media has closed on its $3.5 million acquisition of KGSR-FM (93.3) in Austin, TX, from Waterloo Media. The 100,000-watt station serves the Austin market with a Classic Hip Hop format branded as Vibe 93.3. The deal was originally announced in June.

Norsan Media, headed by Norberto Sanchez, adds KGSR to an Austin-area portfolio that includes Regional Mexican KOKE-FM and KTXX-FM, Spanish Hits KTAE-AM and Regional Mexican KZNX-AM.

Waterloo Media, controlled by the Sinclair family, retains several Austin-area stations, including Adult Hits KBPA-FM, News/Talk KLBJ-AM, Classic Rock KLBJ-FM, Regional Mexican KLZT-FM and Alternative KROX-FM.

Michael J. Bergner of Bergner & Co. served as the exclusive broker in the transaction.

U.S. House Passes AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act on Tuesday, advancing legislation that would require automakers to maintain access to AM broadcast radio in new passenger vehicles sold in the United States. The measure, H.R. 979, was approved by voice vote and now moves to the Senate.

The bill directs the Department of Transportation, in consultation with the Federal Communications Commission and Federal Emergency Management Agency, to establish a requirement for AM broadcast receivers in new passenger vehicles as standard equipment.

The National Association of Broadcasters welcomed the House action, pointing to AM radio's role in emergency communications, news and local information.

"Today's decisive House passage of the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act is a significant step forward for the millions of Americans who rely on AM radio for lifesaving emergency information, trusted news and a vital connection to their communities," said NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt.

LeGeyt thanked House leadership, lead cosponsors Reps. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and Frank Pallone Jr. (D-NJ) and the bipartisan coalition supporting the legislation. He said NAB will continue working with the Senate bill's sponsors and cosponsors to advance the measure.

iHeartMedia Chairman and CEO Bob Pittman also praised the House action, calling passage "a significant victory for public safety, local communities and the millions of Americans who rely on AM radio every day." Pittman's title is confirmed by iHeartMedia's corporate filings and website.

Pittman said AM radio remains an important source of local emergency information, news and weather alerts, particularly during natural disasters, power outages and other emergencies when other communications networks may be disrupted.

"For more than a century broadcast radio has been there when Americans need it most," Pittman said. "And today, during natural disasters, power outages and other emergencies, AM radio continues to serve as a trusted lifeline."

He also thanked Bilirakis and Pallone for building bipartisan support for the measure and cited the House Energy and Commerce Committee's earlier approval. The committee advanced H.R. 979 by a 50-1 vote in September 2025.

v Public safety organizations have also supported the legislation. Groups representing firefighters, law enforcement and emergency medical services have argued that AM broadcasting can remain available during emergencies when cellular or internet communications are limited or disrupted.

Pittman said iHeartMedia will now work with Senate leadership and Senate sponsors Sens. Ed Markey (D-MA) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) as the legislation moves to the chamber.

The House vote does not make the measure law. The Senate must also approve the legislation before it can be sent to the president.

Cumulus, Zimmer Urge FCC to End Radio Ownership Caps

Cumulus Media and Zimmer Radio

Cumulus Media and Zimmer Radio of Mid-Missouri are urging the Federal Communications Commission to eliminate its local radio ownership limits, arguing in separate ex parte meetings that rules unchanged since 1996 no longer reflect today's competitive audio and advertising marketplace.

The filings come as the FCC conducts its 2022 Quadrennial Regulatory Review, which includes consideration of the Local Radio Ownership Rule. The Commission opened the current proceeding to determine whether its broadcast ownership rules remain necessary in the public interest because of competition and whether they should be retained, modified or repealed.

Cumulus Executive Vice President of Corporate Strategy & Development Collin Jones met September 9 with advisors to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr and Commissioner Olivia Trusty, and September 11 with Commissioner Anna Gomez's Chief of Staff and Legal Advisor Deena Shetler. Jones told the Commission there is an "urgent need" to eliminate the local radio ownership rule.

Cumulus argued that while ownership caps have remained unchanged for 30 years, broadcasters now compete with streaming music, podcasts, satellite radio, social media and digital advertising platforms that did not exist when the current limits were established. The company said the restrictions hamper stations' ability to compete for audiences and advertising revenue and to maintain local service.

The broadcaster said allowing groups to achieve greater local scale would provide economies of scale, enabling them to spread operating and local programming costs across more stations while offering a broader range of programming. Cumulus also argued that current limits discourage investment in radio and called on the FCC to complete the review and eliminate the caps "as quickly as possible."

Zimmer Radio President John P. Zimmer made a similar case during September 9 meetings with Carr and his Legal Advisor Allison Howell, Trusty Senior Legal Advisor Marcus Maher and, separately, Shetler in a meeting accompanied by NAB representatives Rick Kaplan and Jerianne Timmerman. Zimmer urged the Commission to repeal the local radio ownership rules.

Zimmer, which owns ten stations in four Missouri markets, argued that competitive changes have particularly affected small and mid-sized markets. He cited competition from Spotify, YouTube, SiriusXM, Pandora, Amazon Music and Apple Music for listening, along with the shift of local advertising dollars toward digital platforms.

Zimmer also maintained that greater local scale would allow smaller broadcasters to spread programming costs across additional outlets and use those stations to offer different formats rather than duplicate existing programming. He said that could increase both programming variety and broadcasters' ability to attract listeners and advertisers.

Supporting materials submitted by Zimmer included a BIA Advisory Services study examining radio format diversity following the Telecommunications Act of 1996. The study's 2024 regression analysis found a statistically significant positive relationship between greater local ownership concentration and programming variety.

The BIA report concluded that programming variety increased substantially following the 1996 ownership changes, particularly in small and medium markets, but that growth slowed or reversed in some markets after 2006. The study argued that further relaxation of the ownership rules could lead to additional programming choices for listeners.

Tyah Sartler Named GM of Saga Milwaukee

Tyah Sartler

Saga Communications has promoted Tyah Sartler to Vice President and General Manager of its Milwaukee Media Group, succeeding longtime executive Bob Bellini, who has retired after more than 36 years with the cluster.

Sartler moves into the top Milwaukee post after 25 years with the company. She joined WJMR-FM (Jammin' 98.3) as an Account Executive in 2002 before moving to WHQG-FM (102.9 The Hog), where she became a Senior Account Executive. She was promoted to Local Sales Manager in 2012 and later became General Sales Manager.

Bellini had served as General Manager of the Milwaukee group since May 2020. His history with the operation dates to 1989, when he joined Classic Rock WKLH-FM (96.5 WKLH) as Program Director. He added Operations Manager duties for Saga's five-station Milwaukee cluster in 2015.

Before joining WKLH, Bellini held programming positions at WIBA-FM in Madison, WI, and KFMQ in Lincoln, NE.

Saga's Milwaukee Media Group includes WKLH, WJMR, WHQG, WRXS-FM (Pure Oldies 106.9) and WJYI-AM/W254CU (Joy 1340/98.7).

FCC Seeks Comment on Political Ad Rate Challenge

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seeking comment on an application asking the agency to overturn Media Bureau guidance concerning which political advertisers are entitled to broadcasters' lowest unit charge rates.

The challenge was filed by Democratic candidates Sherrod Brown, Jon Ossoff, Roy Cooper and Kristen McDonald Rivet, along with their principal campaign committees. They are asking the full Commission to set aside guidance issued by the Media Bureau on March 30 concerning lowest unit charge, or LUC, requirements under Section 315(b) of the Communications Act.

Under federal law, legally qualified candidates are entitled to a station's lowest unit charge for the same class and amount of advertising time during the 45 days before a primary election and 60 days before a general election. The Media Bureau's March guidance said the LUC requirement also applies to authorized committees engaged in joint fundraising with federal candidates and to candidate-party coordinated advertisements.

The applicants contend that the Bureau went beyond the Communications Act by extending LUC treatment to advertising purchased by two categories of non-candidate organizations: political party committees making coordinated expenditures and joint fundraising committees that include candidate and non-candidate members. They argue that Congress intended the discounted rates to benefit candidates and their candidate committees.

The dispute centers in part on whether coordinated party spending should be considered a candidate's "use" of a broadcast station. The applicants argue that such expenditures remain spending by the political party even when coordinated with a candidate. They also contend that joint fundraising committee advertising may be funded largely by non-candidate organizations that would not independently qualify for LUC treatment.

The Media Bureau, however, said its March notice reflected longstanding FCC interpretations rather than a new policy. In a separate August order involving a challenge from the Television Bureau of Advertising, the Bureau said existing industry practice was consistent with its interpretation and dismissed TVB's petition for reconsideration, while deferring action on TVB's alternative request for a declaratory ruling.

The Commission's consideration of the application comes as broadcasters enter the final weeks of the 2026 election cycle, when the statutory 60-day LUC window applies to general election candidate advertising.

Gemini XIII Adds Kelly Parker, Yea Podcast Slate

Kelly Parker

Gemini XIII is expanding its audio sales operation with the addition of veteran media executive Kelly Parker as Senior Vice President of Sales. Parker joins the company from Yea Networks.

As part of the move, Gemini XIII will become the exclusive advertising sales representative for Yea Networks' podcast portfolio, adding the slate to its growing roster of audio programming.

Parker brings extensive experience in media and audio sales, including developing advertiser relationships and new revenue opportunities. At Yea Networks, she helped drive sales across the company's audio business while working with agencies, brands and advertisers.

"Kelly is exactly the kind of sales leader we want at Gemini XIII," said COO Charles Steinhauer. "She has deep relationships, a strong understanding of the audio marketplace and, most importantly, a genuine passion for creating opportunities for content partners and advertisers."

The Yea Networks portfolio joining Gemini XIII includes "Ana's Group Chat" with Kidd Kraddick's Ana Szabo, "Hold My Crown" and "Hey Dude... The 90s Called!" with Christine Taylor and David Lascher.

Steinhauer said the combination of Parker's appointment and the addition of the Yea Networks podcasts represents a significant expansion of Gemini XIII's sales offering.

Gemini XIII will begin representing the Yea Networks podcast portfolio immediately.

Tracy Walker Named 2026 MIW Speak Up! Mentee

Tracy Walker

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW) has named Tracy Walker, General Sales Manager for Connoisseur Media in Saginaw, MI, as the 2026 mentee for its Speak Up! Mentorship Program.

Developed in partnership with Media Staffing Network and the late Laurie Kahn, Speak Up! is a year-long program for women working in any department at radio operations in small and medium markets. The mentorship focuses on building confidence, strengthening communication skills and helping participants use their voices effectively to advance their careers.

Walker leads sales strategy, team development and client growth for Connoisseur Media's radio properties and Connrex Digital solutions in Saginaw. A Saginaw native, she entered radio five years ago following 15 years in retail leadership.

Walker is also an Ambassador for the Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce and Chair of the Events Committee for the Home Builders Association of Great Lakes Bay Region.

"Learning to trust your voice and having the confidence to use it are essential parts of becoming a strong leader," said MIW Board President Sheila Kirby. "Tracy has already demonstrated a strong commitment to her team, her clients and her community, and we're excited to support her as she takes this next step in her professional growth."

Media Staffing Network President Lisa Fields said the program continues Kahn's commitment to helping women advocate for themselves, contribute their perspectives and ensure their voices are heard.

"I'm truly honored to be selected for the MIW Speak Up program," said Walker. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to grow, learn from accomplished women in our industry, and continue building confidence in my own voice and leadership."

RAB Launches Audio Marketing Certification Program

Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB)

RAB has launched Audio Marketing Professional (AMP), a new professional education and certification program designed to help marketers, agency professionals, media planners and buyers better understand and use radio and audio advertising.

The self-paced program provides training on planning, buying, creating and measuring audio as part of an integrated media strategy. The curriculum covers broadcast radio and other forms of audio, consumer behavior, creative and sonic branding, measurement and effectiveness, and emerging industry trends.

Participants will also learn how to plan and optimize audio campaigns and use the medium beyond traditional commercials through experiential opportunities, influencer marketing and other approaches.

"Audio is a powerful part of consumers' daily lives, yet marketers have lacked a dedicated professional credential focused on how to use it most effectively," said RAB President and CEO Mike Hulvey. "AMP closes that gap with practical, actionable education that helps marketers make smarter audio decisions and deliver stronger outcomes."

The first class, "Introduction to Radio and Audio in All Forms," is available now. The approximately 54-minute course consists of 13 modules that participants can complete on their own schedules. After completing a quiz, participants earn a digital completion badge that can be used in email signatures and on professional social media platforms.

"AMP gives marketers and agency professionals a clear, practical way to deepen their understanding of audio and put that knowledge to work," said Jennifer Hungerbuhler, Chair of the RAB Audio Advisory Board. She said the curriculum reflects how media is currently planned and purchased while providing tools to use audio more effectively.

Additional classes will be added to complete the AMP curriculum. Participants who successfully finish all classes and assessments will earn the Audio Marketing Professional certification.

Benztown, Zeno Media Partner on Digital Audio

Benztown and Zeno Media

Benztown and Zeno Media have formed a new partnership aimed at helping radio broadcasters expand their brands beyond their terrestrial signals through streaming, digital monetization, audience distribution and AI-powered audio tools.

Under the agreement, stations can access Zeno Media's omni-channel audio platform through Benztown on either a cash or barter basis. The platform provides cloud-based streaming infrastructure along with digital advertising and distribution capabilities.

The offering also includes Zeno's AI-powered Podcast Bot, which automatically converts live radio broadcasts into on-demand podcast content, allowing stations to repurpose existing programming and extend its reach.

"Radio broadcasters are looking for cost-effective ways to strengthen their digital presence and generate added revenue," said Benztown President Chachi Denes. "Our partnership with Zeno allows stations to pair the power and familiarity of their brands with a modern digital audio platform that can help them reach more listeners, create new revenue opportunities, and get more value from the content they are already producing."

Zeno said its streaming infrastructure is designed to integrate with stations' existing configurations and workflows. Broadcasters switching from another streaming provider will receive migration support intended to maintain service continuity during the transition.

The platform also provides SoundExchange-formatted music reports and logs to assist U.S. broadcasters with music reporting and compliance requirements.

For monetization, stations can use Zeno's programmatic advertising inventory while continuing to sell direct campaigns through their existing advertiser relationships. Campaign management, targeting and reporting are available through the company's dashboard.

"Digital listening represents an important growth opportunity for radio, and broadcasters need technology that makes streaming more accessible while giving them meaningful ways to build and monetize their audiences," said Zeno Media Chief Growth Officer Nikols Latuff. "Our partnership with Benztown brings together two companies focused on helping radio stations sound better, reach more people and make their digital operations more effective."

SiriusXM Puts SXM-11 Satellite Into Service

SiriusXM

SiriusXM has placed its new SXM-11 satellite into operational service following the completion of in-orbit testing and handover by Intuitive Machines. SXM-11 is the most powerful satellite in SiriusXM's high-powered fleet and is designed to improve signal reception, expand coverage in Alaska and support the company's satellite radio service across North America.

"Bringing SXM-11 into service strengthens our next-generation satellite fleet and reinforces the long-term resilience of our network," said SiriusXM Chief Product and Technology Officer Sean Gibbons. He said the satellite will help provide reliable in-vehicle coverage in areas where cellular service may be limited, while SiriusXM with 360L combines satellite delivery with streaming features including personalization and interactivity.

Built on Intuitive Machines' IM 1300 satellite platform, SXM-11 weighed more than 15,000 pounds at launch. It stands 28 feet tall and spans more than 106 feet with its solar panels deployed. Operating about 22,000 miles above Earth, the satellite uses a 30-foot unfurlable main-beam antenna to deliver audio and data across an estimated eight million square miles.

"SXM-11 marks another milestone in our longstanding partnership with SiriusXM," said Intuitive Machines President Chris Johnson. The companies have built 13 spacecraft together.

SXM-11 also carries an additional communications payload intended to provide expanded WCS-band coverage. SiriusXM uses its satellite network for Marine and Aviation services as well, delivering weather and other information directly to pilots and boaters.

The satellite was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station on June 28. SiriusXM and Intuitive Machines subsequently completed commissioning and testing of the spacecraft and its communications systems.

SXM-11 is the 15th satellite launched for SiriusXM and will replace XM-5 as part of the company's ongoing fleet-refresh program. SXM-9 and SXM-10 entered service in 2025, while SXM-12 is scheduled for launch in 2027.

Return to Menu