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Top Radio News
Cumulus Promotes Jay Davis to Regional VP
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 | 2:23pm CT |
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Cumulus Media has promoted Jay Davis to Regional Vice President, expanding his leadership responsibilities to include oversight of the company's six-station cluster in Colorado Springs, CO, while continuing to lead its Oklahoma City operations. Davis will retain his role as Vice President & Market Manager for Cumulus Oklahoma City, a post he has held since 2015, overseeing the market's radio and digital brands.
A longtime Cumulus executive, Davis joined the Oklahoma City cluster in 1989 as a Sales Representative. He was promoted to Sales Manager in 1997 and served in that role until being named Vice President/Market Manager in 2015.
Bob Walker, President of Operations for Cumulus Media, praised the appointment, saying, "Jay is an accomplished leader and the perfect partner for the team in Colorado Springs. We are eager to see the impact he and the team will continue to have in that community for our listeners and clients."
Davis said he looks forward to working with the Colorado Springs team. "I'm extremely excited to be a part of the Cumulus Colorado Springs team," he said. "They have been and remain an established, successful, and meaningful market for Cumulus, with a great and tenured staff. I very much look forward to getting to work there. I feel certain that the best is ahead."
Cumulus Media's Colorado Springs cluster includes KATC-FM (Cat Country 95.1), KCSF-AM (Xtra Sports Radio AM 1300), KKFM-FM (98.1 KKFM Classic Rock), KKMG-FM (98.9 Magic FM), KKPK-FM (92.9 Peak FM), and KVOR-AM (AM 740 KVOR).
In Oklahoma City, Davis oversees stations including KATT-FM (KATT Rock 100.5), KKWD-FM (Alice 104.9), KYIS-FM (98.9 Kiss FM), and WKY-AM (WKY The Sports Animal 930 AM), among others.
CMG Names Jules Riley Atlanta Programming Chief
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 | 11:02am CT |
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Cox Media Group (CMG) has appointed Jules Riley as Director of Operations and Programming for its Atlanta radio cluster, overseeing the programming strategy and daily operations for WSB-FM, WSRV and WALR. In her new role, Riley will oversee content and operational leadership across the stations, working closely with market management and air talent.
"Jules has achieved exceptional success throughout her career because she understands how to build strong brands, develop people, and lead high-performing teams," said David Abel, Vice President and Market Manager of CMG Atlanta Radio. "Her strategic mindset, operational expertise, and passion for connecting with audiences make her the ideal choice for this important leadership role."
Riley joins the Atlanta cluster from CMG Jacksonville Radio, where she most recently served as Director of Operations and Programming. There, she led programming efforts for the company's eight-station group.
CMG said Riley has built a reputation for driving innovation, mentoring talent, and implementing programming strategies designed to connect with local audiences while supporting broader business goals.
Caroline Beasley Inducted Into FAB Hall of Fame
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 | 11:17am CT |
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Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley has been inducted into the 2026 Florida Broadcasters Hall of Fame, one of the industry's highest honors, during the Florida Association of Broadcasters' Annual Conference at The Breakers Resort in Palm Beach, FL.
The Hall of Fame recognizes broadcasters whose careers have made lasting contributions to the industry and the communities they serve. Beasley was honored for her leadership of Beasley Media Group and her commitment to local broadcasting, community engagement, and innovation amid a rapidly changing media landscape.
The induction carries special significance for the Beasley family. Caroline Beasley follows her father, the late George G. Beasley, founder of Beasley Media Group, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2024. Together, their recognition reflects nearly 65 years of the family's contributions to broadcasting and public service.
"I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this recognition from the Florida Association of Broadcasters," Beasley said. "I literally grew up in the radio broadcasting business. To be inducted into the Hall of Fame and follow my father, whose passion for this industry inspired so many, makes this recognition especially meaningful."
She added that she shares the honor with her family, colleagues, mentors, and Beasley Media Group employees whose dedication has helped drive the company's success.
Beasley was inducted alongside television broadcaster Jeannie Blaylock, anchor at First Coast News stations WTLV and WJXX, who was also recognized for her more than four decades of service to Florida viewers.
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Heather Roberts Named News Director at KXL Portland
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 | 2:05pm CT |
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Connoisseur Media has promoted Heather Roberts to News Director at KXL in Portland, OR, expanding her leadership responsibilities at the heritage News/Talk outlet while she continues as co-anchor of Portland's Morning News.
In her new role, Roberts will oversee the editorial direction of KXL's newsroom, guide coverage and content strategy, and continue her daily on-air duties. She succeeds into a position that will play a key role in shaping the future of one of Portland's longest-serving news brands.
"Heather is a news force," said Grant McHill, Program Director for KXL. "She is relentless in her search for the news and will serve KXL well in this role. I'm excited to see where she takes the KXL News Department."
BFOA Giving Day Supports Broadcasters in Need
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 23, 2026 | 4:10pm CT |
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The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) will hold its annual Giving Day on Thursday, raising funds to support radio and television professionals facing severe financial hardship caused by debilitating illness, natural disasters, and other life-altering circumstances.
The organization, which provides financial assistance exclusively to members of the broadcasting community, has distributed more than $20 million in aid over the past 15 years. The support has benefited employees from more than 200 broadcast companies across 45 states and U.S. territories.
BFOA said the grants have helped broadcasters navigate some of the most difficult periods of their lives, providing a financial safety net when unexpected tragedies strike.
The annual Giving Day campaign encourages broadcasters, companies, and industry supporters to unite in support of colleagues in need. Funds raised help ensure the Foundation can continue providing emergency assistance to radio and television professionals facing significant personal and financial challenges.
The Broadcasters Foundation is the only charitable organization dedicated exclusively to helping broadcast professionals in acute need. Through its emergency grant program, the organization assists recipients with essential living expenses during periods of crisis.
BFOA is encouraging members of the broadcasting industry to participate in Giving Day, noting that contributions of any size can make a meaningful difference in the lives of fellow broadcasters and their families.
Donations can be made by clicking here.
TAB Show Puts Spotlight on Radio Innovation
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 22, 2026 | 5:36pm CT |
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The Texas Association of Broadcasters (TAB) is placing a renewed focus on radio at its 2026 TAB Show, a two-day conference expected to draw approximately 1,200 broadcasters, engineers, sales professionals and industry leaders to Austin-Round Rock on August 5-6.
Billed as one of the most radio-centric TAB Shows in recent years, the event will feature more than 25 educational sessions, over 100 exhibitors and a lineup of industry experts covering programming, sales, engineering and leadership. The agenda was developed with input from industry veterans including Gordon Borrell, Jimmy Steal and Jeff Schmidt, along with Texas radio and television executives and engineers.
In a move aimed at expanding participation, TAB is extending member pricing to broadcasters from New Mexico, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Arkansas and Louisiana.
"With all local stations facing the same challenges, we're putting out the welcome mat for broadcasters in the surrounding states so we can all grow and succeed together," said TAB President Oscar Rodriguez. "We've built a learn real stuff and put it to work kind of conference that's affordable and time-efficient, with content relevant to independent operators and station groups serving markets of all sizes."
Among the featured radio programming sessions are Phil Becker's presentation on improving radio's perception in an AI-driven and on-demand media environment, Seth Resler's discussion on building community-based revenue models, Juan Galdamez's session on leveraging audience data, and Jimmy Steal's presentation on talent development featuring Texas morning radio veterans JB and Sandy.
The conference's sales and leadership track will include a keynote from local advertising expert Gordon Borrell and a series of interactive workshops focused on revenue growth, sales strategy and business development. Radio Advertising Bureau Senior Vice President Jeff Schmidt will present "AI, AI - OH!" examining how broadcasters can incorporate artificial intelligence into the sales process.
University of Texas Athletic Director Chris Del Conte will deliver the "Breakfast for Champions" keynote, drawing parallels between building successful athletic programs and operating winning broadcast organizations.
Engineers and IT professionals will have access to two days of technical sessions covering artificial intelligence applications, transmission systems, podcast studio development, tower maintenance, hybrid distribution strategies and the latest FCC regulatory developments.
The event will conclude with the TAB Awards Gala, where Ben Downs of Bryan Broadcasting will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, Jan Fritz of Hill Country Broadcasting will be honored as Pioneer Broadcaster of the Year, Paul Gleiser of ATW Media will be recognized as Radio Broadcaster of the Year, and Cox Media Group San Antonio will receive Radio Station of the Year honors.
Florida Broadcasters Announce Leadership Changes
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 22, 2026 | 2:47pm CT |
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The Florida Association of Broadcasters (FAB) has announced a series of leadership changes, including the appointment of a new Chairman and Chairman-Elect, the addition of an Executive Committee member, and several new members to its Board of Directors.
As part of the association's leadership succession plan, John Soapes, President and General Manager of Hearst Television's Orlando and Tampa operations, has assumed the role of Chairman. Jason Meder, Vice President and Market Manager for Cox Media Group Radio in Tampa, has been named Chairman-Elect.
"I'm honored to serve as Chairman and to build on the tremendous work of Lara Kunkler, the Executive Committee, the FAB team, and this board," Soapes said. "Florida is one of the fastest growing and most dynamic states in the nation, and local broadcasters play an essential role in helping residents navigate that growth as trusted voices, first informers, and community partners."
FAB Executive Vice President and COO Heather Lomagistro and President and CEO Pat Roberts praised the appointments, noting that Soapes and Meder bring extensive experience and leadership to the association.
The association also named Carolyn Cassidy, Vice President and Regional General Manager for Salem Media, to its Executive Committee. Cassidy oversees Salem's operations in Columbus, Tampa, Orlando and Miami and serves on the company's senior leadership team.
Joining the FAB Board of Directors are Darren Moore, Senior Vice President and Chief Sales Officer of Cox Media Group Television and General Manager of its Orlando television operations, representing television; JC Campese, Vice President and Market Manager for Cox Media Group Orlando, and Roger Holler, founder and owner of MARC Media Group, representing radio; and Ralph Renzi, Chief Executive Officer of Newsmax Radio & Audio, as an associate member.
"Carolyn, Darren, JC, Roger, and Ralph each bring deep experience and a real passion for this industry, and we're proud to have them helping guide FAB forward," Lomagistro said.
The association also recognized Adib Eden, one of its longest-serving board members, as he concludes his tenure on the Executive Committee. FAB President and CEO Pat Roberts credited Eden's years of service and leadership for helping shape the organization.
Meanwhile, Lara Kunkler, who served as FAB Chair during what the association described as a transformative period, will transition to the role of Immediate Past Chair and continue serving on the Executive Committee.
Report: Video Podcasts Deliver Stronger Ad Results
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 22, 2026 | 2:42pm CT |
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Podcast campaigns running on video-enabled shows generated stronger audience response and conversion rates than audio-only podcasts during the first quarter of 2026, according to Magellan AI's latest Podcast Measurement Benchmark Report.
The report analyzed podcast advertising campaigns measured by Magellan AI between January 1 and March 31, 2026, examining response rates, conversions and listener behavior across multiple industries and podcast genres.
Among the key findings, video podcasts consistently outperformed RSS-only shows in both advertiser response and conversion metrics. The average global response rate for podcast advertising was 2.29%, meaning just over two percent of reached listeners visited an advertiser's website. Video podcasts posted a 2.49% response rate, compared to 1.39% for audio-only shows.
Host-read advertising also proved more effective than other ad formats. Host-read spots generated a 2.45% response rate, outperforming programmatic ads at 1.93% and produced ads at 1.51%. The report found that 87.4% of all listener responses occurred within 30 days of ad exposure.
On the conversion side, Magellan AI reported an average lead conversion rate of 9.74% and an average purchase conversion rate of 5.22%. Video podcasts delivered a lead conversion rate of 11.27%, significantly higher than the 6.42% recorded by RSS-only shows. However, purchase conversion rates showed less variation by podcast ranking, suggesting that audiences across show sizes can be equally likely to complete a transaction once they visit an advertiser's website.
The study also found that more than 80% of both lead and purchase conversions occur within seven days of ad exposure, highlighting the importance of short-term attribution windows when evaluating campaign performance.
For podcast promotion campaigns, the average new listener conversion rate was 2.55%, while the average repeat listener rate reached 59.4%. Business and Education podcasts were the most successful at attracting new listeners, while History podcasts posted the highest repeat-listener rate at 63.98%.
Video podcasts again led in audience acquisition, generating a 3.69% new-listener conversion rate compared to 1.70% for RSS-only shows. Mid-tier podcasts ranked between 501 and 3,000 delivered the strongest new-listener conversion performance, while long-tail shows ranked outside the top 3,000 posted the highest listener retention rates.
Magellan AI said the findings demonstrate that video-enabled podcasts, host-read advertising and strategically selected show rankings can significantly improve campaign effectiveness for advertisers and podcast publishers seeking stronger audience engagement and conversion outcomes.
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BIA Names Michael Guerity VP of Market Intelligence
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 22, 2026 | 12:02pm CT |
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BIA Advisory Services has appointed Michael Guerity as Vice President of Market Intelligence & Strategic Communications, a newly created leadership post designed to strengthen the company's market forecasting, strategic insights and industry engagement efforts.
In the role, Guerity will oversee strategic communications, market positioning, research storytelling, content development and industry outreach. He will also help guide the development and application of BIA's U.S. local advertising forecasts, market analysis and strategic intelligence for media and advertising organizations.
Guerity brings more than two decades of experience across media, advertising, marketing, SaaS and business strategy. His career includes senior leadership roles at Cox Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group's Drive Auto division, where he focused on revenue growth through market intelligence, content strategy and digital innovation. Most recently, he served as Head of GTM Strategy & Marketing at Lightcast, leading growth initiatives that aligned communications, marketing, sales and customer success through data-driven and AI-enabled strategies.
"Mike brings a unique combination of media industry expertise, strategic communications leadership, digital innovation, and revenue growth strategy that aligns perfectly with BIA's mission," said BIA Advisory Services CEO Tom Buono. "As media and advertising continue to evolve, his experience will help our clients identify emerging opportunities, navigate industry change, and make more informed strategic decisions."
Buono added that Guerity's leadership will help BIA enhance the development and delivery of forecasting intelligence while leveraging artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to expand the value of its insights.
Working closely with BIA's forecasting and executive teams, Guerity will focus on delivering enhanced analytics through AI-enabled processes and identifying emerging trends that support the continued evolution of the company's local advertising forecasts.
"I've long respected BIA's reputation as one of the most trusted sources of market intelligence in the media industry," Guerity said. "The opportunity ahead for BIA is not simply to deliver more data, but to make our market intelligence more actionable, accessible, and valuable so clients can identify growth opportunities, make more informed decisions, and navigate the rapid changes shaping the future of local advertising."
104.3 The Score Extends Chicago Bulls Radio Rights Deal
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 22, 2026 | 11:53am CT |
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Audacy and the Chicago Bulls have agreed to a multi-year extension of their multiplatform broadcast partnership, ensuring that WSCR-FM (104.3 The Score) remains the flagship radio home of Bulls basketball.
Under the renewed agreement, The Score will continue to air all Chicago Bulls regular season and postseason games. Fans will also be able to listen through the station's digital stream on the Audacy app and The Score website.
Audacy Chicago Vice President of Sports Programming Mitch Rosen said the extension reflects the longstanding relationship between the station and the NBA franchise.
"We are proud to continue our partnership with the Chicago Bulls and remain the voice of Chicago sports fans," Rosen said. "Our broadcast team of Chuck, Bill and Alyssa, paired with our talented production staff, consistently delivers a premier experience across the Midwest on all digital platforms."
Chicago Bulls Chief Operating Officer Ram Padmanabhan said the team views its radio broadcasts as an important part of the overall fan experience. "We consider our broadcasts an essential part of the Bulls offering and a key component of our fan experience, and we know that The Score feels the same," Padmanabhan said. "That's why we are excited to again extend our partnership and look forward to continuing to entertaining Bulls fans together."
The Score's game coverage will continue to feature play-by-play announcer Chuck Swirsky, color analyst Bill Wennington and on-air host Alyssa Bergamini. Broadcasts will also include a 15-minute pregame show hosted by Swirsky and a 30-minute postgame show featuring a rotation of hosts.
NAB Urges FCC to Scale Back Earth Station Fee Hike
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 22, 2026 | 3:18pm CT |
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The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) is urging the FCC to reduce a proposed 46% increase in regulatory fees for earth station licenses, arguing the hike would place an unfair burden on broadcasters that rely on satellite facilities to distribute programming.
In an ex parte filing detailing a June 12 teleconference with officials from the FCC's Space Bureau and Office of Economics and Analytics, NAB said the proposed fee increase would have a significant financial impact on broadcasters that use earth stations to distribute and contribute programming. The trade group emphasized that broadcaster-operated earth stations are fixed facilities that require minimal FCC oversight because they do not move or change operating parameters.
NAB also noted that broadcasters already pay regulatory fees for their broadcast licenses and, in some cases, could end up paying more in regulatory fees for operating an earth station than for maintaining a broadcast license itself. The association argued that broadcasters use these facilities to provide free over-the-air service to the public and should not be disproportionately burdened by the proposed increase.
During the discussion, NAB pointed to what it described as a disparity between the proposed earth station fee increase and fee changes for other entities regulated by the Space Bureau. The group noted that fees for non-geostationary orbit (non-GSO) small constellation space stations are proposed to rise by roughly 9%, compared with the 46% increase proposed for earth stations. While acknowledging that the number of licensed earth stations has declined from 2025 to 2026, contributing to a higher per-license fee, NAB argued that the increase does not appear consistent with the level of FCC resources devoted to earth station regulation, particularly as total Space Bureau staffing is projected to decline from 51 to 48 full-time employees.
As an alternative, NAB asked the Commission to cap earth station fees at no more than $2,500 per license. The association said that would still represent a 21.36% year-over-year increase while bringing earth station fees more in line with increases proposed for other Space Bureau-regulated services.
NAB further proposed that any additional regulatory fee burden be shifted to non-GSO space station operators, arguing that those systems are better positioned to absorb the costs and are the primary focus of the Space Bureau's current regulatory activities. The filing cited the substantial regulatory demands associated with non-GSO systems and the Commission's recent actions involving those operators.
The association concluded by expressing appreciation for the FCC's efforts, including Chairman Brendan Carr's initiatives to modernize the regulatory fee process through revisions to full-time-equivalent staff allocations, and said it remains committed to working with the Commission on future improvements to earth station fee assessments.
BFOA Adds Gelman, Clarke to Board of Directors
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 22, 2026 | 0:20am CT |
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The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) has elected two veteran media executives, Michael Gelman and Tim Clarke, to its board of directors.
Gelman serves as Executive Producer of Live with Kelly & Mark and is widely recognized as one of television's most influential producers. His career spans decades, from Live with Regis and Kathie Lee through the program's current incarnation. Clarke recently served as Senior Vice President and Head of Digital Audio Content for Audacy, where he helped shape digital audio strategy and innovation across broadcast and streaming platforms.
The BFOA said the appointments strengthen its board as the organization continues to expand outreach, fundraising initiatives and support services for radio and television professionals facing financial hardship due to illness or disaster.
"We are honored to welcome Michael and Tim to the Broadcasters Foundation Board of Directors," said BFOA Chairman Scott Herman. "Both are highly accomplished leaders whose careers reflect excellence, innovation, and a deep commitment to our industry. Their insights, relationships, and strategic vision will be invaluable as we continue to grow awareness of the Foundation's mission and ensure that broadcasters across the country know that help is available when they need it most."
The Broadcasters Foundation of America is the only charitable organization dedicated exclusively to providing financial assistance to broadcasters in acute need. Through monthly grants and emergency aid, the Foundation assists radio and television professionals facing severe financial challenges resulting from critical illness or natural disasters.
The organization serves as a safety net for broadcasters who have spent their careers serving local communities and audiences, offering financial support when unexpected hardships arise.
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Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Mark Five Years on Air
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 22, 2026 | 0:01am CT |
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Premiere Networks is celebrating the fifth anniversary of The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show, which launched nationwide on June 21, 2021 airing from 2-3pm ET. The syndicated program, hosted by Clay Travis and Buck Sexton, succeeded the late Rush Limbaugh in the midday block he occupied for more than three decades.
Since its debut, the show has expanded its reach to more than 550 affiliate stations nationwide, including major markets such as New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Boston, Seattle, Miami, Detroit, Phoenix, San Diego, Tampa, Las Vegas and Austin.
In addition to its radio success, the program serves as the foundation of The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Podcast Network, launched in March, 2023. The network features a lineup of news, politics and culture-focused podcasts, including The Buck Brief, The Tudor Dixon Podcast, The Truth with Lisa Boothe, The Karol Markowicz Show, Normally, and Nation States, among others.
"We've exceeded every goal - not just for the radio show, where we've added more than 130 new affiliates, but across podcasting and digital as well," said Travis. "We couldn't be more thrilled."
Sexton added, "And the best part is, we're just warming up. We have big plans on deck that we're excited to share with our amazing audience - because that's why we do this. It's for them."
Premiere Networks President Julie Talbott praised the hosts for building on Limbaugh's legacy while creating a successful multimedia brand.
"We're so proud to celebrate this milestone with Clay and Buck," Talbott said. "They had enormous shoes to fill when we launched this show, and they've surpassed our expectations in every way."
WBA Hall of Fame Adds Four New Inductees
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, June 19, 2026 | 1:12pm CT |
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The Wisconsin Broadcasters Association (WBA) inducted four broadcasting leaders into the Wisconsin Broadcasters Hall of Fame on Thursday during its Summer Conference at the Grand Geneva Resort in Lake Geneva.
The newest Hall of Fame members are Dave Magnum, founder of Magnum Media and a key figure in building a statewide group of radio stations; Kelly Radandt, recognized for her leadership, commitment to community service, and dedication to broadcasting; Jeff Tyler, whose nearly 50-year career has left a lasting mark on local radio; and Steve Wexler, whose career has spanned on-air talent, executive leadership, and industry mentorship.
Established in 1989, the Wisconsin Broadcasters Hall of Fame honors individuals who have devoted at least 25 years to Wisconsin broadcasting while demonstrating exemplary leadership and service to their communities and the industry. The Hall of Fame is housed at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center and online through the WBA Hall of Fame website.
With the addition of this year's inductees, Hall of Fame membership now totals 172 broadcasters.
The WBA also honored four recipients with its Local Broadcast Legends Award during the conference.
Recognized this year were Randy Allen, a longtime country radio personality serving listeners in the Green Bay, Appleton, and Oshkosh markets; Dave Luczak, a familiar and trusted voice in Milwaukee radio; Rod Perry, whose broadcasting career has spanned more than 65 years; and Susan Siman, a respected Wisconsin television journalist known for her professionalism and community service.
The Local Broadcast Legends Award recognizes broadcasters who exemplify localism and community service, often working behind the scenes to fulfill broadcasting's commitment to serving local audiences. The award extends recognition of their contributions beyond the communities they serve.
Border Media Acquires WLGR in Ownership Transition
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, June 19, 2026 | 1:06pm CT |
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New York-based Border Media has announced that it has assumed ownership of Adult Hits WLGR-FM (93.5), serving Glens Falls, Queensbury and the Lake George region. The station is being acquired from Sticks Media LLC, owned by Todd Nixon, in lieu of a promissory note held by Border Media.
According to the company, the transition is intended to provide operational continuity and a seamless experience for listeners and local advertisers. Border Media said it plans to bring its focus on local broadcasting and audio technology innovation to the station as it begins a new chapter under the company's ownership.
"We are very pleased to bring WLGR into the Border Media portfolio," said Border Media CEO Ricki Lee. "While this transition stems from a financial restructuring, we view it as a great opportunity to invest our resources and long-term vision into the station. Our goal is to provide stability and high-quality local media that genuinely connects with the community."
Nixon expressed confidence in the station's future under the new ownership. "I am glad to see the station land with a team as capable and forward-thinking as Border Media," he said. "I know WLGR is in excellent hands for its next phase of growth."
Katz Study Highlights Radio's Emotional Connection
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, June 18, 2026 | 2:47pm CT |
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A new Katz Radio Group study finds that AM/FM radio continues to play a deeply ingrained role in consumers' daily lives, driven by habitual listening, emotional connections, and trusted air personalities. According to Katz's latest Sound Answers report, more than 86% of radio listeners tune in frequently, underscoring radio's position as a regular companion despite an increasingly crowded media landscape.
The study found that radio listening is closely tied to daily routines. Weekday mornings remain the most popular listening period, with 64% of listeners tuning in between 6am and 10am. Afternoon drive attracts 52% of listeners, while 41% listen during midday hours.
The automobile continues to be radio's dominant listening location, accounting for half of all listening. Katz noted that this gives advertisers an opportunity to reach consumers during commutes and other key moments away from screens.
The research also revealed strong emotional bonds between listeners and their favorite stations. More than 91% of respondents said their preferred station improves their mood, while 84% said it is connected to their local community. Nearly 93% said they would miss their favorite station if it disappeared.
Long-term loyalty remains a hallmark of radio listening. One in four respondents reported listening to their favorite station for more than 20 years.
The study highlighted the importance of air personalities in building those relationships. Nearly two-thirds of listeners said DJs and hosts are very or extremely important to their enjoyment of a station, while 57% could name a favorite personality.
That connection extends to advertising effectiveness. Sixty-one percent of listeners said they are more likely to consider a brand endorsed by a radio personality, while nearly 40% said such endorsements feel more personal and authentic than traditional advertising. Additionally, 59% said they pay attention to commercials aired on their favorite stations, and 57% said they trust brands advertised there.
Katz concluded that radio continues to deliver a combination of reach, trusted voices, emotional engagement, and advertising influence that remains difficult for other media channels to replicate.
Read the entire Sound Answers report here.
Rivian Drops FM Radio from R2, Sparks Listener Backlash
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, June 18, 2026 | 1:18pm CT |
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Rivian's decision to eliminate AM and FM radio receivers from its new R2 electric SUV is drawing criticism from radio advocates, lawmakers and potential buyers, as concerns grow over the industry's broader move away from traditional broadcast radio in vehicles.
According to media reports, the Rivian R2 replaces conventional radio tuners with a digital audio platform centered around the iHeartRadio app and other streaming services. While listeners can still access many AM and FM stations through internet-based apps, the system relies on cellular connectivity rather than over-the-air broadcasts.
The move makes Rivian one of the latest automakers to abandon traditional radio hardware. Tesla has removed AM and FM tuners from some newer vehicle trims, while several manufacturers began eliminating AM receivers in recent years, citing interference issues associated with electric vehicle powertrains.
The decision has generated pushback from consumers, particularly outdoor enthusiasts who say cellular coverage is often unreliable or unavailable in remote areas where Rivian vehicles are frequently used. Critics argue that relying exclusively on streaming services could leave drivers without access to entertainment, local information and emergency alerts when traveling beyond cellular coverage.
The debate comes as Congress moves closer to passing legislation that would require automakers to retain AM radio in new vehicles. The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act has attracted broad bipartisan support and has been incorporated into larger transportation legislation currently advancing through Congress.
The National Association of Broadcasters has used Rivian's decision to highlight concerns about the removal of broadcast radio from dashboards. NAB officials argue that AM radio remains a critical component of the nation's Emergency Alert System and provides a resilient communications platform during natural disasters and other emergencies when wireless networks may fail.
Rivian has never offered AM radio in its vehicles and has indicated that usage of FM radio among its customers is relatively low. However, industry data shows broadcast radio continues to play a significant role in in-car listening. Edison Research reports AM/FM radio accounts for roughly 55% of all in-car listening time nationally, while Nielsen estimates more than 82 million Americans listen to AM radio each month.
The controversy also raises broader questions about the future of FM radio. While current legislative efforts focus on preserving AM radio access, Rivian's decision to eliminate both AM and FM receivers has prompted concerns that automakers may increasingly shift toward internet-based audio platforms, particularly in electric vehicles.
With the Rivian R2 now on the market and other manufacturers evaluating similar moves, the battle over radio's place in the connected car is likely to intensify as lawmakers, broadcasters and automakers continue to debate the balance between technological innovation and public access to free, over-the-air broadcasting.
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