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Top Radio News
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.
iHeart Unveils AudioGraph for Broadcast Targeting
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, June 18, 2026 | 12:33pm CT |
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iHeartMedia has launched AudioGraph, a new suite of advertising capabilities designed to bring digital-style targeting, measurement and attribution to broadcast radio at scale. Powered by Triton Digital, AudioGraph combines privacy-safe identity technology, audience insights from TransUnion and proprietary listening models to enable advertisers to plan, target, measure and attribute broadcast radio campaigns with greater precision.
The company says the platform marks the first time broadcast radio can be bought and measured using identity-informed audience data similar to digital media channels.
According to iHeartMedia, broadcast radio accounts for 64% of all audio consumption and reaches more than 278 million consumers each month. The company said proof-of-concept testing found campaigns planned and measured using AudioGraph IDs delivered key performance indicator outcomes 75% higher than traditional demographic-based plans.
"Audio has always delivered unmatched scale and human-to-human connection, but measurement and precision have lagged behind digital," said Lisa Coffey, Chief Business Officer for iHeartMedia. "With AudioGraph, we've closed that gap. Marketers can now use audio as an addressable and measurable performance channel at a national scale."
AudioGraph's targeting capabilities are built on custom audience segments created from first-party listener data and TransUnion's identity graph. The platform extends across iHeartMedia's broadcast, streaming and podcast inventory, allowing advertisers to activate campaigns using consistent audience definitions across all audio channels.
The company also said AudioGraph supports modern buying methods, including direct demand-side platform (DSP) connectivity. Yahoo DSP is among the launch partners, with Yahoo's Chandra Cirulnick saying the integration will allow advertisers to reach larger audiences with measurable results across broadcast and digital audio.
On the measurement side, AudioGraph is designed to work with existing attribution and analytics providers. iHeartMedia has validated integrations with partners including Magellan AI, PlaceIQ and GroundTruth, enabling advertisers to connect radio exposure to outcomes such as store visits and foot traffic.
Magellan AI CEO and Co-Founder Cameron Hendrix said the platform helps bring broadcast radio into the same measurement framework used for digital and podcast advertising, giving marketers a more complete view of campaign performance.
iHeartMedia Chairman and CEO Bob Pittman said AudioGraph combines radio's longstanding audience trust and reach with the accountability expected by modern advertisers. He noted that radio continues to attract large audiences and serves as a trusted companion medium for listeners.
Triton Digital developed AudioGraph as an industry-wide solution and plans to expand its use beyond iHeartMedia. The platform launches initially with iHeartMedia inventory, with broader deployment across the broadcast radio industry expected in 2027.
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Triton Digital Issues its May Podcast Rankings
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, June 18, 2026 | 12:59pm CT |
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Triton Digital has released its U.S. Podcast Ranker for May 2026, with the iHeart Audience Network maintaining its position as the nation's top podcast sales network.
Covering the reporting period from May 4-31, the monthly report showed the iHeart Audience Network leading all participating sales networks with 66.7 million average weekly downloads. Audioboom ranked second with 15.4 million average weekly downloads, while the Cumulus Podcast Network placed third with 3.1 million.
Among individual podcasts, "Stuff You Should Know" from the iHeart Audience Network moved into the No. 1 position based on downloads. Audioboom's "Pod Save America" ranked second, followed by iHeart Audience Network's "My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark" at No. 3.
The May rankings also featured several new entries, including "Hey Jonas!" from the iHeart Audience Network and "Monsters Among Us" from Audioboom.
Triton's Top Sales Network Report is ranked by average weekly downloads and follows version 2.2 of the Interactive Advertising Bureau's Podcast Technical Measurement Guidelines. The report includes participating sales networks representing podcast creators, content owners and advertising sales organizations.
AdLarge Names David Cohn Chief Revenue Officer
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, June 18, 2026 | 1:07pm CT |
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AdLarge has appointed David Cohn as Chief Revenue Officer, tasking the veteran media executive with leading revenue strategy and sales operations across AdLarge and the fwd. network. In the newly created role, Cohn will oversee revenue growth initiatives spanning audio, video, social media, creator-led content and branded partnerships as the company continues to expand its cross-platform advertising and creator monetization offerings.
The appointment comes as AdLarge and the fwd. network broaden their creator roster and advertiser solutions, aiming to help brands reach audiences through premium content and integrated marketing programs while providing creators with additional revenue opportunities.
Cohn brings more than 25 years of experience in digital advertising, media sales and revenue leadership. His career includes senior roles at WWE, Spotify and Megaphone, where he helped build and scale sales organizations across media and technology platforms.
At Megaphone, Cohn served on the executive leadership team through the company's acquisition by Spotify. Following the deal, he led Spotify's East Coast and Global Podcast Sales teams, overseeing revenue initiatives across 11 international markets and helping develop the Megaphone Targeted Marketplace into what became the Spotify Audience Network.
"David's experience across audio, podcasting, digital media, and advertising makes him a strong addition to our team as we continue building for the future," said Cathy Csukas, CEO of AdLarge and the fwd. network. She said the company continues to invest in leadership and capabilities to support its ongoing growth.
Cohn said he has long admired the company and cited its industry relationships and vision for the future as key reasons for joining the organization.
Norsan Media to Acquire KGSR-FM in Austin for $3.5M
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, June 17, 2026 | 2:36pm CT |
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Norsan Media has agreed to acquire KGSR-FM (93.3) in Austin, TX, from Waterloo Media for $3.5 million. The station operates with 100,000 watts and serves the Austin market with a Classic Hip Hop format branded as Vibe 93.3.
Following the transaction, Waterloo Media will retain ownership of 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.
Norsan Media is led by Norberto Sanchez, while Waterloo Media is controlled by the Sinclair family.
The acquisition further expands Norsan Media's radio portfolio and presence in Austin, which includes Regional Mexican KOKE-FM, Spanish Hits KTAE-AM, Regional Mexican KTXX-FM, and Regional Mexican KZNX-AM.
The transaction was brokered by Michael J. Bergner, who served as the exclusive broker for the sale.
Red Apple Expands Lee Harris Leadership Role
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, June 17, 2026 | 4:10pm CT |
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Red Apple Media has promoted Radio Hall of Famer Lee Harris to Senior Vice President of News & Programming. Harris joined Red Apple Media six weeks ago as Vice President of News for the Worldwide News Network. In his new role, he will also oversee programming strategy and content development for WABC Radio and Red Apple Audio Networks.
"Lee is a game-changing talent," said John Catsimatidis, owner of Red Apple Media. "His ability to build winning content, lead high-performing teams, and understand what audiences want is second to none. As we continue growing WABC Radio, the Worldwide News Network, and Red Apple Audio Networks, Lee will play a critical role in shaping our future and driving our success worldwide."
Red Apple Media President Chad Lopez said Harris has already made a significant impact on the organization in a short period of time, citing his leadership and extensive broadcasting experience.
Harris said he is excited to help guide the company's continued expansion across radio, streaming, podcasting, and syndication. "Red Apple Media is one of the most exciting and innovative companies in broadcasting today," Harris said. "Together, we'll continue creating compelling programming, expanding our national and international footprint, and delivering content that informs, entertains, and connects with audiences across the country and around the world."
A veteran broadcaster with more than three decades of experience, Harris is best known for his 30-year tenure as morning newscaster at 1010 WINS in New York. He became one of the city's most trusted radio voices and was among the journalists providing live coverage during the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
Beyond his work in the U.S., Harris has advised broadcasters throughout Europe and Asia, helped launch Kommersant FM in Russia, lectured in China through the University of Missouri School of Journalism, and served as Director of Integrated Operations and New York Bureau Chief for NewsNation.
Rep. Tom Emmer Pushes for AM Radio Protection Bill
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, June 17, 2026 | 3:12pm CT |
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House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN) is renewing his support for the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, emphasizing the medium's critical role in public safety, local information, and community service.
Appearing on the National Association of Broadcasters' AirTime podcast, Emmer, a former broadcaster, described AM radio as "the most personal form of media that mankind has ever known" and highlighted its importance during emergencies when other communications systems may be unavailable.
"It is AM radio that everyone has access to," Emmer said, noting that local stations often provide essential information about shelter, food, water, and other resources during disasters.
The bipartisan AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act would require automakers to maintain AM radio receivers in new vehicles. Supporters argue the legislation is necessary as some manufacturers move to remove AM radio from certain models, particularly electric vehicles.
According to NAB, the bill continues to gain momentum in Congress, with more than 300 members of the House and more than 60 senators backing the measure. The legislation recently advanced through the House Energy and Commerce Committee as part of a broader surface transportation package.
Advocates say AM radio remains a vital component of the nation's communications infrastructure, particularly in rural areas and during emergencies when cellular and internet networks may be disrupted. In addition to emergency alerts, AM stations provide local news, weather, agricultural information, and community programming.
Public support for the legislation has also been growing. NAB said listeners nationwide have sent hundreds of thousands of messages to lawmakers urging passage of the bill.
Supporters are now encouraging congressional leaders to bring the measure to votes in both the House and Senate, aiming to ensure AM radio remains available in all new vehicles sold in the United States.
Read the entire blog post here.
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Jackson Named Brand Manager of Chattanooga's KISS FM
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, June 17, 2026 | 10:37am CT |
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Audacy has named Dave Jackson Brand Manager of WKXJ-FM (105.5 KISS FM) in Chattanooga, where he will oversee the CHR outlet's content strategy, talent, operations and branding. Jackson will continue in his current roles as Brand Manager of WFBC (B93.7_, The Block and Magic Upstate in Greenville, SC.
"Dave's partnership with Dex and Barbie T at B93.7 and his success in the south make him the perfect person for 105.5 KISS FM," said Molly Cruz. "We're looking forward to him bringing his creative energy, future-forward passion for tech and strong leadership experience to the station."
Jackson said he is eager to build on KISS FM's established presence in the Chattanooga market. "105.5 KISS FM already has a strong legacy in Chattanooga, and I'm excited to help shape what comes next," Jackson said. "I'm looking forward to working with our talented local team to build on what's already connected, while finding new ways to make the station an even bigger part of their daily lives."
Jackson began his radio career in 1999 as a mixer and producer at B93.7 in Greenville before moving to WIBT in Charlotte. He later advanced into programming leadership positions with Cox Radio and SummitMedia in Greenville. After returning to Audacy in 2014, Jackson took over as Brand Manager of B93.7, the station where he launched his career, and has since expanded his responsibilities to include additional leadership roles, including Director of Operations.
Podcast Listening Climbs 386% Since 2016
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, June 17, 2026 | 5:06pm CT |
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Americans are spending more time with podcasts than ever before, with total weekly podcast consumption increasing 386% over the past decade, according to new data from Edison Research's Share of Ear study conducted with SSRS.
The research shows U.S. consumers age 13 and older now spend 812 million hours per week listening to podcasts, up from 167 million hours in 2016. The dramatic growth reflects both an increase in the number of daily podcast listeners and the amount of time they spend with the medium.
In 2016, podcasts such as "My Favorite Murder" and "Revisionist History" were just beginning to gain widespread popularity. Since then, the industry has experienced rapid expansion fueled by a surge in new content, broader distribution, and the emergence of video podcasts.
The latest figures also show podcast consumption continues to grow year-over-year. Total weekly listening time increased by 39 million hours compared to 2025, underscoring the medium's ongoing momentum among consumers and advertisers.
Share of Ear measures how Americans spend their daily audio time across platforms and combines audience reach with listening duration to calculate total consumption. The study's latest findings highlight podcasting's evolution from a niche format into a major force in the audio landscape.
The 2026 total podcast consumption figures were first featured by Podnews and demonstrate the continuing strength of the podcast industry as it expands its reach across audio and video platforms.
Power4+ HBCU Esports League Unveils Name, Logo
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, June 17, 2026 | 10:43am CT |
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PlayVS and Urban One have officially unveiled the name and logo for their new national HBCU esports competition, the Power4+ HBCU Esports League, while announcing that 25 historically Black colleges and universities have already committed to participate in its inaugural season beginning in February 2027.
The announcement builds on the companies' partnership revealed earlier this year and establishes a dedicated, fee-free competitive gaming ecosystem within the PlayVS College League. The initiative is designed to expand access to esports competition while creating educational and career opportunities for HBCU students nationwide.
Among the first institutions to join the league are Bowie State University, Clark Atlanta University, Grambling State University, and Howard University.
The rollout will begin this summer with the formation of an advisory committee made up of esports leaders from participating schools. The group will help shape the league's competitive structure and determine eligible game titles. HBCU-focused invitational competitions are scheduled to launch in fall 2026, providing early opportunities for students and brand partners ahead of the official league debut.
The inaugural Power4+ HBCU Esports League season will begin in February 2027 and conclude with an in-person national championship event.
"This first wave of participating schools is just the beginning," said Charles O'Donnell, Director of Collegiate at PlayVS. "By partnering with Urban One, we are combining best-in-class competition with powerful storytelling and national reach. We're building a long-term pipeline that supports students from competition to careers in gaming, technology, and beyond."
Alvord Reese, Assistant Vice President of Sales at Urban One, said the rapid adoption among HBCUs highlights both the cultural significance and economic potential of esports within Black communities.
FCC Orders Encino to Pay Fees or Risk License Loss
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, June 17, 2026 | 3:03pm CT |
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The FCC has initiated proceedings that could lead to the revocation of three Austin-area AM station licenses held by Encino Broadcasting, LLC, citing more than a decade of unpaid regulatory fees and related penalties.
In an Order to Pay or Show Cause released June 17, the Commission directed Encino Broadcasting to either pay $166,646.79 in outstanding regulatory fee debt or demonstrate within 60 days why the fees should be waived, deferred, or deemed inapplicable.
The action involves licenses for KELG-AM in Manor, KOKE-AM in Pflugerville, and KTXZ-AM in West Lake Hills. According to the FCC, the debt stems from unpaid regulatory fees dating back as far as fiscal year 2013 and continuing through fiscal year 2025, along with accrued interest, administrative costs, and late-payment penalties.
The FCC said it previously issued collection notices and referred the debt to the U.S. Department of the Treasury for collection. The debts were later returned to the Commission for further enforcement action.
Under federal law, the Commission has authority to revoke broadcast licenses when regulatory fees remain unpaid. The order warns that failure to provide evidence of payment or a satisfactory response within 60 days could result in the loss of the stations' licenses.
The Commission noted that any request for a waiver based on financial hardship must be supported by detailed documentation demonstrating that payment of the fees would jeopardize the stations' ability to continue serving the public.
The order was adopted and released June 17 by Acting Media Bureau Chief Alexander Sanjenis and Managing Director Daniel Daly.
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94.9 The Bull Names Ashley Layfield as Program Director
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 11:35am CT |
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iHeartMedia Atlanta has announced two leadership additions at Country WUBL (94.9 The Bull), appointing Ashley Layfield as Program Director and Corey Calhoun as afternoon host.
"These are two of the most exciting additions we've made to the Bull in recent years," said Jill Strada, Executive Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia. "Corey's experience across multiple markets, combined with his passion for Country music and audience engagement, makes him a perfect fit for afternoons on 94.9 The Bull, while Ashley is one of the most respected programming leaders in our industry."
Layfield joins the Atlanta cluster from iHeartMedia Tampa, where she currently serves as Director of Programming and Brand Strategy for US103.5. She brings nearly 20 years of radio experience, including a successful tenure at K92.3 Orlando, which earned the Academy of Country Music's Large Market Station of the Year honor during her time there. Layfield has also been active with industry organizations, including the Alliance for Women in Media.
"Atlanta is one of the most dynamic and influential country radio markets in the nation, and I'm honored to join the incredible team at 94.9 The Bull," Layfield said. "The station has a strong legacy with deep community roots, and I'm excited to build on that foundation."
Calhoun arrives from iHeartMedia Washington, DC, where he serves as co-host of mornings on WMZQ. His radio career includes stops in Atlanta, Louisville, Lexington, Brunswick and Washington, along with roles as Assistant Program Director and afternoon host at WAMZ Louisville and Music Director and evening host at WMZQ.
A graduate of Kennesaw State University, Calhoun began his broadcasting career as an intern in Atlanta radio.
"I started my radio career in Atlanta, so the opportunity to return with 94.9 The Bull truly feels like a full-circle moment," Calhoun said. "Nothing compares to coming home, and it makes it even more special that I'm joining this incredible team in what is a dream job for me."
RAB Highlights Growing Power of In-Car Media
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 10:51am CT |
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The Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB) is spotlighting the continued strength of AM/FM radio in the automotive environment, arguing that advances in connected vehicle technology are making in-car media more engaging, measurable, and valuable for marketers than ever before.
In a new thought leadership article published by the Association of National Advertisers (ANA), RAB Senior Vice President of Business Development Tammy Greenberg describes the automobile as "media's last high-attention environment at scale," where consumers remain highly engaged and less distracted than in many other media settings.
According to the article, AM/FM radio continues to dominate ad-supported in-car audio listening. Citing Edison Research's Share of Ear study, RAB notes that broadcast radio accounts for 84% of ad-supported listening time in vehicles. The organization also points to Jacobs Media's Techsurvey 2026, which found consumers continue to value radio for its convenience, local content, and accessibility without requiring subscriptions or internet connections.
The report highlights the growing role of connected dashboards and in-dash visual displays, which can complement audio advertising with synchronized visual messaging. RAB says research shows 83% of drivers actively engage with dashboard displays while listening, creating opportunities for advertisers to reinforce brand messages through both audio and visual channels.
Advances in connected vehicle technology are also providing marketers with new audience insights. Data from Xperi's DTS AutoStage platform, which analyzes listening behavior from 6.5 million vehicles nationwide, found drivers generated nearly 42 million hours of HD Radio listening in a single month, averaging 11.2 listening hours per vehicle. The platform also offers traffic and proximity data that can help advertisers better understand consumer movement patterns and optimize campaign targeting.
The article cites several case studies demonstrating the effectiveness of combining radio advertising with in-dash visuals. One campaign for a consumer packaged goods brand reportedly generated significant gains in brand familiarity, usage, and purchase intent, while another campaign promoting a streaming television series delivered substantial increases in show awareness and viewing intent among listeners exposed to dashboard messaging.
Greenberg concludes that while media consumption continues to fragment across platforms, the vehicle remains a rare environment that combines scale, attention, routine, and trust. She argues that new measurement tools and connected dashboard capabilities are helping transform traditional in-car listening into a more accountable and impactful marketing channel.
Read the full ANA article here.
Complex Named Brand Manager of Live 101.5 in Phoenix
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 2:27pm CT |
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Audacy has promoted Ben 'Complex' Romero to Brand Manager of KALV-FM (Live 101.5) in Phoenix. In his new role, Romero will oversee the station's content strategy, talent, operations and branding. He will continue to serve as Brand Manager for KUDL-FM (106.5 The End) and 102.5 KSFM in Sacramento.
"We are excited to elevate Complex to Brand Manager of Live 101.5," said Molly Cruz. "Complex knows Phoenix inside and out, both behind the scenes and live on the air. That unique perspective, combined with his passion for the listener experience, is exactly what will propel Live to new levels."
Romero called the appointment a return to a market that has played a significant role in his career. "Phoenix has always held a special place in my career, so the opportunity to lead KALV feels like a full-circle moment," he said. "My experiences in Phoenix, Riverside, Sacramento and San Francisco have shaped my approach to programming, talent development and brand building. I'm excited to return, work with an incredible team, and help write the next chapter for the station."
A radio veteran with more than 20 years of experience, Romero began his career in 2001 and has held programming positions in Los Angeles, Phoenix, Boise and Riverside-San Bernardino. Before joining Audacy, he spent 11 years as Program Director and Music Director for KKFR (Power 98.3/96.1) in Phoenix.
His career also includes programming leadership roles at Wild 101 and BOB FM 96.1 in Boise, Wild 96.1 in San Bernardino, and Hot 97.5 in Phoenix.
Salem Elevates Young, Reisman to New Leadership Roles
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 3:05pm CT |
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Salem Media has announced expanded leadership responsibilities for two longtime executives, promoting Linnae Young (pictured) and Jeff Reisman to corporate leadership positions, effective October 1. Young will assume the role of President of Broadcast Media while continuing to serve as Chief Revenue Officer. In her expanded position, she will oversee Salem's broadcast operations in addition to leading the company's revenue strategy.
A Salem veteran of more than 30 years, Young has held leadership roles in sales, revenue development and broadcast operations. She currently serves on the board of the Radio Advertising Bureau and was recently appointed to the board of Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW).
"Linnae has earned the respect of people across this company and throughout our industry," said David Santrella, Chief Executive Officer of Salem Media Group. "She knows our business inside and out and has been a driving force behind Salem's success for more than three decades."
Young said she looks forward to helping guide the company's continued growth. "Salem is growing in exciting ways. From Salem Creators Agency to Salem Political Solutions, we're finding new ways to serve audiences and partners," she said.
Also effective October 1, Reisman will be promoted to Executive Vice President of Operations, overseeing operational leadership across Salem's local broadcast markets nationwide.
Reisman has spent 22 years with the company, serving in a variety of leadership positions including General Sales Manager, Director of Sales, General Manager of Salem's Chicago market, Regional Vice President and Senior Vice President.
"Jeff is a trusted leader in our company and has spent more than two decades serving Salem with excellence," Santrella said. "He understands what makes our local markets successful and has spent years building strong teams and helping people grow."
In his new role, Reisman will focus on supporting Salem's local markets and operational performance across the company's broadcast portfolio.
Salem also announced expanded responsibilities for Senior Vice President Mark Durkin, Regional Vice President Jeff Mitchell and Regional Vice President Chad Gammage as part of the leadership transition.
The appointments follow the previously announced retirement plans of Allen Power and continue the company's long-standing practice of promoting leadership talent from within its ranks.
John Beck Joins Media Services Group as Managing Dir.
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 11:05am CT |
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Media Services Group has expanded its brokerage leadership team with the appointment of veteran broadcaster John Beck as Managing Director. Beck brings more than 40 years of experience spanning radio management, ownership, sales, programming, consulting, government relations, industry leadership and brokerage. He joins Media Services Group after operating his own consulting firm, John Beck Media Strategies.
"John is one of the most respected leaders in St. Louis," said George Reed. "His track record of success, reputation for building strong teams, and deep roots in local radio are just a few of the reasons we are excited to welcome him to Media Services Group."
Most recently, Beck served four years as Area President for iHeartMedia in St. Louis and Indianapolis. Prior to that role, he spent 36 years with Emmis Communications, rising to Senior Vice President and overseeing multiple stations, including heritage St. Louis Rock outlet KSHE-95. Earlier in his career, Beck managed radio stations in Kansas City and worked with CBS in Detroit at its company-owned radio representation firm. He began his broadcasting career at WFFM in Pittsburgh.
A longtime industry leader, Beck served as president of the Missouri Broadcasters Association from 1999 to 2000 and currently chairs its Legislative Affairs Committee. He also served six years on the board of the National Association of Broadcasters and was a member of the NAB Executive Committee, serving as Radio Board First Vice Chair from 2012 to 2014. Beck currently serves as a trustee of NABPAC.
"I'm thrilled to be joining Media Services Group," Beck said. "I look forward to working with the leadership team, several of whom I have known for many years. It is an outstanding organization, and I'm excited to help broadcasters identify new opportunities and achieve their goals."
Throughout his career, Beck has received numerous industry honors, including the Missouri Broadcasters Association's Distinguished Broadcaster Award in 2002 and the Radio Wayne Award Market Manager of the Year from the Radio Advertising Bureau.
Beck is also scheduled to be inducted into the Missouri Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame during ceremonies at the Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri.
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