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Jim Lyke Returns to SBS as AIRE Executive VP

Jim Lyke

Spanish Broadcasting System has appointed Jim Lyke as Executive Vice President of Network Radio and National Digital Sales for AIRE Radio Networks, marking his return to the company nearly a year after departing for a role at Nueva Network.

Lyke previously served as Senior Vice President of Network Audio Sales at SBS from November 2018 until March 2025. In his new role, he will oversee all network and national digital revenue operations for AIRE Radio Networks. His responsibilities include leading integrated national revenue strategy, driving agency development, strengthening advertiser relationships.

He will also co-lead the Network division alongside Carolina Patino, Executive Vice President of Operations, aligning revenue strategy with operational execution to optimize performance and expand the network's national footprint.

Lyke brings more than 20 years of experience in Hispanic media sales. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President at Nueva Network. His previous roles include executive leadership positions at Entravision Communications, where he was Executive Vice President of Network Audio and Integrated Marketing Solutions, as well as earlier positions with ABC Radio Networks and Citadel Media focused on Hispanic sales.

SBS Chairman and CEO Raul Alarcon Jr. said Lyke's return represents "a powerful step forward" for AIRE Radio Networks, citing his experience in national audio and digital strategy as the company continues to expand its national reach and invest in digital growth.

Report: Black Buying Power to Top $2.1 Trillion in 2026

Katz Radio Group

Black Americans now account for 49.2 million people, or 14.4% of the U.S. population, and their economic influence continues to grow, according to a new analysis from the Katz Radio Insights & Analytics team.

The report, The Importance of the Black American Consumer 2026, highlights that the Black population has increased 24% since 2005 and is projected to grow another 35.7% by 2060, even as the non-ethnic White population declines. The median age of Black Americans is 33.7, younger than the total U.S. median of 39.2, underscoring the group's long-term consumer potential.

Buying power among Black consumers has surged 71% from 2010 to 2021 and is projected to reach $2.10 trillion by 2026. The study also finds strong financial momentum, with 24% reporting they are financially better off than a year ago and 46% expecting further improvement in the year ahead.

Socioeconomic gains are evident across multiple categories. The number of Black Americans 18+ with a net worth of $500,000 or more rose 70% over the past five years, outpacing total U.S. growth. Black-owned businesses increased 61.3% between 2018 and 2023, while higher-income households and high-value homeownership segments posted substantial gains.

The report details strong consumer engagement across travel, automotive, fashion, sports and technology categories, as well as high intent for major life events such as returning to school, leasing vehicles and purchasing homes. It also notes that 72% of general market consumers say they follow trends first seen in Black culture.

From a media standpoint, Black Americans are described as avid consumers, spending more than 81 hours per week with media -- 17% more than the general population. AM/FM radio plays a central role, reaching 86% of Black adults weekly and averaging more than nine hours of listening per week. Within the audio universe, radio leads in ad-supported reach across key demographics.

Trust is also a differentiator. The Katz Media Trust study cited in the analysis finds radio earns the highest trust among Black adults at 81.6%, while nearly 40% express mistrust in social media platforms. Additionally, 78% say radio is part of their daily routine and 83% believe their station cares about their community.

Katz concludes that marketers who invest in culturally relevant, community-focused advertising -- particularly through radio -- are positioned to build brand loyalty and capture share within one of the fastest-growing and most influential consumer segments in the country.

Download the entire report here.

iHeartRadio Named Media Partner of iFlag

iFlag and iHeartRadio

The International Flag League (iFlag), formerly known as USA Flag and billed as the world's largest flag football tournament organization, has named iHeartRadio as its official media partner.

Under the agreement, iFlag will work with iHeartRadio and its parent company iHeartMedia on a cross-marketing collaboration designed to expand awareness of the league, its tournaments and athlete recruitment efforts. Promotions will run nationally across iHeartMedia's broadcast radio stations, podcasts, digital platforms and social channels.

Michael Biondo, President of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships for iHeartMedia, said the partnership reflects the company's support of emerging sports and their communities. He said combining iFlag's growth with iHeart's distribution network creates new opportunities for athletes, fans and brands to engage with the sport.

Charles Davis, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of the International Flag League, called the agreement a milestone for both the league and the broader sport of flag football. He said the collaboration will help elevate athletes, connect with new audiences and further develop a global platform centered on competition and inclusion.

As part of the deal, iHeartRadio will gain access to league-produced content and year-round promotional opportunities tied to tournaments, athletes and community events. The companies said the partnership positions iHeart to reach the growing audience for flag football, which has emerged as one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide.

BIA, AdApt Partner on AI Sales Platform

AdApt and BIA Advisory Services

BIA Advisory Services and AdApt Media Sales have announced a strategic partnership to integrate local advertising market data into sales technology used by media organizations.

Under the agreement, AdApt will incorporate BIA's market-specific revenue forecasts into its AI-enabled sales platform. The combined offering is designed to give local broadcasters and other media companies direct access to market-level insights within their existing sales workflows, supporting planning efforts and advertiser conversations.

Dave Buonfiglio, Partner at AdApt Media Sales, said the collaboration comes as local media sales faces significant change. He described the partnership as bringing together established market intelligence and modern sales execution tools to support a more data-driven advertising environment.

BIA provides media and business category forecasts along with analysis of local advertising markets. Its data is used by media owners, advertisers, and investors to evaluate revenue trends and category performance. Through the integration, BIA's market intelligence will be embedded within AdApt's platform for use by local media sales teams.

Rick Ducey, Managing Director of BIA Advisory Services, said local sellers are operating in an increasingly complex advertising landscape. He noted that incorporating market data directly into sales platforms is intended to make it easier for teams to assess market trends and dynamics as part of their day-to-day work.

The companies will also co-host a podcast episode exploring how AI-powered sales tools combined with local market data can assist media sellers in prospecting and advertiser engagement. The episode will be released the week of March 16 on BIA's "Leading Local Insights" podcast channel.

The integrated solution is now available to AdApt Media Sales clients.

FCC Seeks Comment on Sports Broadcasting Landscape

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

The Federal Communications Commission's Media Bureau has opened a new proceeding to examine the evolving sports broadcasting marketplace, citing concerns about consumer access and the impact on local television stations.

In a Public Notice released February 25, the Bureau is seeking public comment on how recent changes in the distribution of live sports programming are affecting viewers and broadcasters. Comments are due March 27, 2026, with reply comments due April 13.

For decades, the FCC noted, Americans could turn on their televisions and watch major sporting events for free over-the-air. While many games remain available on broadcast TV, the agency said there has been a significant shift toward streaming platforms and subscription services. That shift has increased the number of viewing options but also fragmented distribution, making it more difficult and potentially more expensive for fans to follow their teams.

The Bureau highlighted the historic relationship between broadcast television and live sports, dating back to a 1939 NBC telecast of a college baseball game. Over time, sports programming helped fuel television's growth, while broadcast revenues supported local station operations, including news and public affairs programming.

Today, however, major leagues have entered into multibillion-dollar media rights agreements with a wide range of national distributors, including broadcast networks, cable channels and streaming platforms. The notice points to the National Football League's current agreements with multiple companies, which collectively are valued at more than $100 billion over their terms. Other leagues and college conferences have similarly lucrative national deals.

The FCC is asking how these marketplace developments affect broadcasters' ability to obtain sports rights and whether fragmentation has made it harder for consumers to watch nationally televised and local games on free broadcast television. The agency also is seeking input on the types of rights included in current agreements, the prevalence of exclusive streaming deals and the cost implications for viewers.

In addition, the Bureau is examining whether sports rights contracts could conflict with or impede local broadcasters' public interest obligations, including the provision of local news, emergency information and other community-focused programming. The FCC is also asking what role, if any, it should play in ensuring continued consumer access to live sports through free over-the-air television.

The proceeding will be treated as "permit-but-disclose," allowing for ex parte presentations subject to the Commission's disclosure rules.

In response to the Public Notice, the National Association of Broadcasters expressed support for the review.

"NAB thanks Chairman Carr for his leadership in examining the rapid changes in the sports broadcasting marketplace and what they mean for American viewers and local communities," said NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt in a statement.

LeGeyt said consumer access to premier games on free, over-the-air television has long been central to the sports fan experience. As distribution becomes more fragmented across streaming services and paywalls, he said, fans face higher costs and confusion in following their teams.

He added that local broadcasters provide the widest reach for live events and argued that, as the FCC evaluates marketplace trends, it should ensure local stations have a fair opportunity to compete for premium sports rights. That includes modernizing ownership restrictions that NAB says limit broadcasters' ability to achieve scale in today's media environment.

Black Effect Fest to Return to Atlanta on April 25

Black Effect Podcast Festival

iHeartMedia and Charlamagne Tha God have announced the return of the Black Effect Podcast Festival, set for April 25 from noon to 8pm ET at Pullman Yards in Atlanta.

Now in its fourth year, the event will bring together Black podcasters, creators and fans for a full day of live podcast tapings, panel discussions and networking opportunities. Charlamagne Tha God will host the festival alongside DJ Envy of The Breakfast Club and Loren LoRosa, host of "The Latest with Loren LoRosa Podcast."

"Each year we return to Atlanta with purpose and intention to amplify storytelling, champion community, and celebrate excellence in podcasting with thousands of our cousins from around the world," said Charlamagne Tha God.

The festival will feature panels including "AI: The Evolution and The Future," "The Gen-Z Movement," and discussions focused on audio and media development. Scheduled participants include Carlos King, host of "Reality With The King," and finance expert Ian Dunlap, among others.

Dollie S. Bishop, President of The Black Effect Podcast Network, said the event aims to create space for creators to inspire, connect and shape culture. "From conversations on AI and investing to the future of audio, we're bringing the culture together for connection, innovation and a few surprises," she said.

In addition to live show tapings, the event will offer interactive experiences such as the "Pitch Your Podcast" booth and The Black Effect Marketplace, featuring merchandise from Black-owned businesses and local food vendors.

Launched in September 2020, The Black Effect Podcast Network has debuted more than 60 shows and produced 47 live events, spotlighting voices across social justice, pop culture, sports, mental health and comedy.

Tickets go on sale March 12 at 12pm ET at blackeffect.com/podcastfestival.

MIW Study: Women Gain in GM, Programming Roles

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW)

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW) has released its 25th Annual Gender Analysis Study, charting the progress of women in radio management roles across the U.S.

The long-running study, compiled from raw data collected by PrecisionTrak, tracks women serving as General Managers, Sales Managers, and Program Directors & Brand Managers at commercial AM and FM stations. The 2025 report reflects 11,215 U.S.-based stations as of December 31, 2025.

General Managers

Women held 22.07% of General Manager positions in 2025, representing 2,366 stations. That marks a slight increase from 21.67% in 2024 and a significant gain from 2004, when women accounted for 14.9% of GMs.

In the Top 100 markets, women managed 24.09% of stations (784 stations), nearly five percentage points higher than in 2024 and above the national average.

Sales Managers

Sales continues to represent the strongest management category for women. In 2025, 35.31% of stations (3,561) had a female Sales Manager, essentially flat compared to 35.67% in 2024.

In the Top 100 markets, women held 37.61% of Sales Manager roles (1,156 stations), still outpacing the national average but down from 42.94% the previous year.

Program Directors/Brand Managers

Programming remains the most challenging management track for women. Female Program Directors/Brand Managers accounted for 13.02% (289 stations) in 2025, up slightly from 12.38% in 2024.

In the Top 100 markets, however, women made more notable gains, rising to 15.25% of programming roles, compared to 11.23% in 2024.

"Twenty-five years of data give us clarity," said MIW Board President Sheila Kirby. "We are encouraged to see movement in General Manager and Programming roles, particularly within the Top 100 markets. At the same time, flat growth in sales leadership and the continued under-representation of women in programming nationally remind us that progress is not automatic. Sustainable advancement requires intention. MIW remains committed to mentoring, advocating, and creating pathways for women to lead at every level of the industry."

MIW noted that all figures are based on PrecisionTrak data and are subject to the accuracy and completeness of information provided by radio companies as of December 31, 2025.

Andy Hawk to Lead Audacy's Sacramento Rock Outlets

Andy Hawk

Audacy has expanded Andy Hawk's leadership role, naming him Brand Manager of Classic Rock KSEG (96.9 The Eagle) and KRXQ (98 Rock). In the new position, Hawk will oversee content strategy, talent, operations and branding for both stations, while continuing to serve as Brand Manager of KKDO (ALT 94.7).

Ryan Castle, Audacy's Rock Format Vice President, said Hawk's local roots and experience make him well-suited to guide the stations forward, calling him "the definitive choice to lead these two legendary brands into their next chapter."

Hawk, a Sacramento native, said he has longstanding ties to the stations and their programming teams. "I've grown up with these stations and have worked alongside the programmers of KRXQ and KSEG for the last two decades," he said. "It's truly an honor to get to lead these two massive Sacramento brands."

Hawk has more than 25 years of industry experience. He began his radio career as an intern at 98 Rock in 1997 and later hosted "Local Licks." From 2009 to 2015, he served as a traffic and weather anchor before moving into management in 2016 as the company's Alternative Regional Brand Manager.

Podcasts Overtake AM/FM in Spoken-Word Audio

Edison Research

Spoken-word audio platforms now account for a quarter of all daily audio listening among Americans 13 and over, according to new data from Edison Research's Share of Ear study, marking a significant shift in how consumers engage with spoken-word content.

The research shows that in 2015, AM/FM radio dominated spoken-word listening, capturing 75% of total time spent with the format. At the time, podcasts accounted for just 10% of spoken-word listening, trailing radio by 65 percentage points.

Over the past decade, however, that gap has steadily narrowed. Quarter by quarter and year over year, time spent listening to spoken-word programming on AM/FM radio has declined, while podcast consumption has grown.

As of the fourth quarter of 2025, podcasts now command 40% of all spoken-word listening time among Americans 13+, edging out AM/FM radio, which holds a 39% share. The data marks the first time podcasts have surpassed traditional radio in total share of spoken-word audio listening.

Spoken-word audio overall represents 25% of all daily audio consumption for Americans 13+, underscoring its continued importance in the broader audio landscape.

Edison Research says Share of Ear remains the only audio measurement source that captures both the amount of time Americans spend with spoken-word audio and the specific platforms used. The findings highlight what the firm describes as a "seismic" transformation in how consumers access and engage with spoken-word programming, as audiences increasingly turn to a mix of platforms, devices and on-demand services.

Report: Sports Audio Delivers Avid, Diverse Fans

Audacy Insights

New research from the Audacy Insights Team finds that today's most avid sports fans are younger, more diverse and more likely to be reached through sports audio platforms than traditional media alone.

The first half of 2026 is set to deliver a packed sports calendar, from global events such as the Winter Olympics and the FIFA World Cup to major league action across the NBA, NHL and MLB, along with tentpole events like the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament, the NCAA Division I Women's Basketball Tournament and the NFL Draft. But the research suggests the modern sports fan experience extends far beyond live game windows.

According to the report, "avidity" -- the depth of engagement rather than simple reach -- has become the new currency in sports marketing. Avid fans consume content throughout the day, listening to pre-game analysis, streaming post-game reactions and subscribing to insider podcasts. Seven in ten say they use every available medium to follow their favorite teams and sports.

The profile of today's avid sports fan also reflects broader cultural shifts. The research shows 27% of sports audiences are ages 18-34, 38% identify as Asian, Black or Latino, and 38% are women. More than a quarter consume four or more hours of sports content daily. Among younger fans, live television is no longer the primary touchpoint; sports radio, podcasts and social platforms frequently take the lead.

The study notes that younger fans are expanding the definition of premium sports content, turning to podcasts, sports talk, fantasy leagues, sports betting platforms and athlete-driven streaming channels to deepen their engagement. These outlets, the report says, are not secondary experiences but central to modern fandom.

For marketers, the findings underscore audio's role as what Audacy describes as "the hardest-working buy in sports." As media rights costs and sponsorship fees continue to climb, brands are seeking more flexible and performance-driven alternatives. Radio, streaming and podcasts offer faster turnaround, targeted alignment with teams and leagues, and measurable outcomes.

According to the report, brands advertising on Audacy Sports platforms see an average 40% lift compared to brands advertising elsewhere. Campaigns in competitive categories have shown notable gains in web traffic, including financial services (+105%), home improvement (+42%) and insurance (+32%).

The research concludes that as fans construct their own sports ecosystems across platforms, sports audio is positioned to meet them throughout the day -- not just during the game, but in the conversations and analysis that surround it.

Read the entire Audacy Insights article here.

AWM Names 2026 National Board Leadership

Alliance for Women in Media (AWM)

The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) has announced its 2026 National Board of Directors and Officers as the organization marks its 75th anniversary.

"As the Alliance for Women in Media celebrates 75 years of advancing women across the industry, strong and visionary leadership remains essential to expanding access and strengthening community," said Becky Brooks, President of the AWM Foundation. "The experience and commitment of this year's Board will help ensure that AWM continues to create meaningful opportunities, foster connection, and support the next generation of women shaping the future of media."

Officer Roles

Monica Bloom, Chief Marketing Officer of Kino Lorber Media Group, will serve as Chair. Catherine Badalamente, President and CEO of Graham Media Group, has been named Incoming/Vice Chair. Katina Arnold, Senior Vice President of Disney Advertising Communications at The Walt Disney Company, will serve as Immediate Past Chair.

Marie Tedesco, retired Chief Financial Officer of Beasley Broadcast Group, has been named Treasurer, with Chesley Maddox-Dorsey, CEO of American Urban Radio Network, serving as Treasurer-Elect.

New Directors

Four leaders will begin two-year terms on the Board:

Bridget Bogee, Head of Social at Meta AI
Rashida Jones, Founder and CEO of Imagine Strategies and former President of MSNBC
Erin O'Flaherty, Head of Creative Development at Wondery/Amazon
Michelle Duke, President of the NAB Leadership Foundation and Chief Impact Officer at the National Association of Broadcasters

Second-Term Director

Jaclyn Levin, President of Shriver Media, will serve a second term on the Board.

Incumbent Directors

The following members will continue serving on the AWM Board:

Cori Abraham, SVP of Unscripted Content for Entertainment, Versant
Jayne Bussman-Wise, VP of Growth, Strategy & New Ventures, Professional Women's Hockey League
Rebekah Dopp, CEO of IABBB and Founder and President of Exponent
Ann Hailer, President of Broadcast, Locality

The 2026 board brings together executives from across broadcast, digital, advertising, and content development sectors as AWM continues its mission to advance women in media leadership.

Brian McKnight Sues Urban One, Raleigh Station

Brian McKnight

R&B singer Brian McKnight has filed a defamation lawsuit against Urban One, WFXC-FM (Foxy 107.1) Raleigh, and on-air host Karen Clark, alleging they falsely portrayed him as an abusive and neglectful father, reports AllHipHop in an exclusive report.

According to the complaint, the dispute centers on a January 23, 2025 interview conducted at Foxy 107.1's Raleigh studio with McKnight's ex-wife, singer Julie McKnight. The interview, which also aired on the station's YouTube channel, included allegations that McKnight was "emotionally abusive, mentally abusive, and a neglectful father."

McKnight claims Clark failed to remain neutral during the segment and instead endorsed or reinforced the accusations through her commentary and questioning. The suit alleges the station did not verify the claims, provide him an opportunity to respond, or include any disclaimer.

The lawsuit also names Urban One's nationally syndicated The Rickey Smiley Morning Show, citing a December 15, 2025 podcast episode that featured a clip of McKnight's eldest son, Brian McKnight Jr. In the clip, his son alleged that McKnight refused to tell his son Niko he loved him while he was battling cancer. McKnight argues the excerpt was edited and presented without context, further damaging his reputation.

The complaint seeks more than $25,000 in compensatory damages for each claim, along with punitive damages. McKnight contends that Urban One continued to "publish, republish, and amplify" what he describes as false and misleading narratives, despite prior objections.

The legal action follows years of public family disputes involving McKnight, his former spouse, and his older children, much of which has played out on social media and in interviews. McKnight has previously denied the allegations and maintains that the public narrative surrounding his family relationships is incomplete and inaccurate.

Read the entire article here.

Sports Radio Audience Delivers Upscale Impact

Cumulus Media | Westwood One

Sports AM/FM stations featuring play-by-play and sports/talk continue to post strong gains in both audience and revenue, according to a new analysis from Cumulus Media | Westwood One's Audio Active Group. The blog reports the number of sports-formatted AM/FM stations has increased 14% over the past decade, while revenue shares have surged 38%, based on Miller Kaplan data. The format now reaches one in six American men and ranks third out of 24 AM/FM formats in household income.

Nielsen data shows sports dominates AM/FM streaming, ranking number one among adults 18-34 and 25-54. Among 18-34s, sports holds a 3.7 overall AM/FM share but posts a 13.9% streaming share -- nearly four times higher. For 25-54s, the format's 5.1 total share jumps to a 14.2% streaming share. Even among adults 35 , sports' 5.4% total share doubles to 11.4% via streaming.

According to Edison Research's "Share of Ear" study, 61% of all U.S. sports audio time spent occurs on AM/FM radio, followed by podcasts at 27% and SiriusXM at 12%. Listening is strongest during midday (33%), morning drive (29%) and afternoon drive (24%). Over-the-air sports listening primarily happens in the car (57%), though total AM/FM sports listening is evenly split between home and car when streaming is included.

The report also highlights growth in national sports broadcasts. Nielsen indicates audiences for Westwood One's NFL prime-time broadcasts have grown 26% over the past decade, while its NCAA March Madness coverage reaches 20 million Americans annually.

Research from MRI-Simmons suggests sports AM/FM listeners are more engaged than sports TV viewers across multiple measures of sports passion, including for NFL and college basketball. The format also generates strong interest in sports betting.

Financially, sports AM/FM listeners rank among the most affluent radio audiences, with household incomes rising 17% since 2020. Compared to sports TV viewers, the radio audience is more likely to be employed, college educated and married.

The blog notes sports listeners over-index across several major purchase categories. They are 24% more likely than average Americans to spend $1,000 or more on auto repair and maintenance, are frequent auto parts shoppers, and are more likely to be in the market for new vehicles or lease agreements. Luxury auto brands perform particularly well among the format's audience.

Financial services and travel brands also show strong potential, with sports listeners over-indexing for banks, credit cards, hotels, airlines and cruises. Case studies cited in the blog found hotel sponsorships tied to Westwood One sports content delivered measurable brand equity gains.

Emerging technology is another area of opportunity. A recent Quantilope study found sports AM/FM listeners are more engaged with artificial intelligence and more willing to pay for AI services compared to the total U.S. population.

The findings underscore sports AM/FM radio's continued growth and its value as a platform reaching an attentive, upscale and purchase-ready audience across a broad range of categories.

Read the entrie blog post here.

Civic Media Revamps News/Talk Format in Wisconsin

Civic Media

Civic Media has rolled out a revamped News/Talk format across several of its Wisconsin stations, expanding its programming lineup and digital content offerings. The updated Civic Media Network will air on WXCO in Wausau, WMDX in Madison, WAUK in Milwaukee, and WISS in Oshkosh-Appleton.

As part of the refresh, the company is introducing three new weekday shows to its daily schedule. "Daybreak with Brian and Jamie" will air from 6-9 a.m. CT, hosted by Jamie Martinson and Brian Noonan. The program is designed to anchor the morning lineup with a mix of news, commentary and conversation.

"The Jeff Santos Show" will be heard from 2-5pm, followed by "Nite Lite With Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach" from 5-7pm, rounding out the afternoon and early evening schedule.

Civic Media Vice President of Product Aaron Carreno said the changes reflect the company's focus on expanding both its on-air presence and digital footprint.

"We're excited to refresh our programming with the addition of new radio shows and a continuous stream of digital content that meets audiences wherever they are," Carreno said. "By strengthening both our on-air and digital presence, we're creating more opportunities for our community to connect, discover, and stay informed-anytime, anywhere."

JVC Ups Mallory, Adds Miller in Fort Walton Beach

Scott Mallory

JVC Broadcasting has promoted Scott Mallory to Operations Manager for its Forth Walton Beach cluster and added industry veteran Brad Miller as Production and Promotions Lead.

Mallory, who also handles afternoons on WHWY, steps into the operations role after taking on increasing responsibilities over the past year, performing many of its core duties. In his new capacity, he will oversee day-to-day programming operations, coordinate staff efforts, and manage brand execution across the company's Fort Walton Beach stations.

JVC leadership said Mallory had grown naturally into the role through his leadership and consistent execution, calling the promotion a reflection of both his work and the respect he has earned within the organization.

Alongside the promotion, JVC has appointed Miller as Production and Promotions Lead. He brings more than 25 years of radio experience, including work in programming, production, imaging and promotions. Management said his background and creative expertise are expected to enhance the cluster's sound, brand presence and promotional strategy.

BFOA Announces 2026 Honorees of the Leadership Awards

Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA)

The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) is proud to announce the 2026 recipients of the Leadership Awards, Lowry Mays Excellence in Broadcasting Award, and Chairman's Award. The awards honor some of the biggest names and most influential leaders in broadcasting. The honorees will be presented with their award at the BFOA Annual Breakfast, Wednesday, April 22, at 7am during the NAB Show in Las Vegas.

The 2026 Leadership Award honorees are:

Heather Cohen, President, The Weiss Agency
April Carty-Sipp, Executive Vice President, Industry Affairs at NAB
Michael J. Hayes, President, Hearst Television
Mike Hulvey, President & Chief Executive Officer, Radio Advertising Bureau
Chad Matthews, President, ABC-Owned Television Stations
Alissa Pollack, Executive Vice President, Global Music Marketing, iHeart

The Leadership Awards are given annually in recognition of career contributions to the broadcast industry and the community at large.

The 2026 Lowry Mays Excellence in Broadcasting Award honoree is John Catsimatidis, Owner & Chief Executive Officer of WABC Radio & Red Apple Media. This award is bestowed annually on an individual in broadcasting whose work exemplifies innovation, community service, advocacy, and entrepreneurship.

The 2026 Chairman's Award honoree is Deborah Norville, Emmy-winning Broadcast Journalist The Chairman's Award is bestowed on an individual in recognition of their contribution to the broadcast industry.

The Broadcasters Foundation Annual Breakfast is complimentary to everyone in broadcasting, although registration is strictly required. To register, broadcast professionals may click here.

Santita Jackson to Continue ''Keep Hope Alive''

''Keep Hope Alive''

Following the death of Rev. Jesse L. Jackson last week, Premiere Networks announced that the long-running weekend program "Keep Hope Alive with Rev. Jesse Jackson" will continue under the leadership of Santita Jackson, the program's executive producer and eldest daughter of the civil rights leader.

For more than two decades, Rev. Jackson used the nationally syndicated show to provide commentary on news and public affairs, interviewing prominent figures in politics, culture and entertainment. Over the years, guests included leaders such as Nelson Mandela and entertainer Michael Jackson, reflecting the program's wide-ranging focus.

As the show moves forward, Santita Jackson will present archival conversations from its 20-year history while adding new commentary and interviews addressing current events. The two-hour program airs Sundays from 8-10am ET in multiple markets nationwide, including Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington DC, and Houston.

Julie Talbott, President of Premiere Networks, said the company was "deeply saddened" by Jackson's passing and described Santita Jackson as well positioned to continue her father's legacy and commitment to social justice.

Bob Pittman, Chairman and CEO of iHeartMedia, called Jackson "a transformative voice in American life," noting a working relationship that dates back to "The Jesse Jackson Show" in the 1990s. Pittman said the company looks forward to honoring Jackson's lasting impact on national dialogue and culture through the continuation of the program.

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