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Top Radio News
Cumulus Media Adopts Xperi's AutoStage Analytics
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | 11:16am CT |
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Cumulus Media has become the first commercial broadcaster to license Xperi's AutoStage Broadcaster Portal Premium, a new audience intelligence platform that provides near-census-level insights into in-car radio listening.
The agreement makes Cumulus the launch partner for the next-generation analytics platform, which uses aggregated connected-car data to provide near-real-time visibility into radio listening behavior. The broadcaster will deploy the platform across all 393 of its stations in 84 markets.
Xperi said the platform measures tens of millions of monthly AM/FM listening hours from more than 16 million connected vehicles worldwide, providing audience insights across 300 U.S. markets. The data includes share of listening, audience flow, geographic listening patterns, market-level reach and near-real-time station rankings by daypart.
For advertisers, the platform offers observed audience behavior, large next-day sample sizes and market-level listening trends to support more precise media planning and campaign measurement.
Joe D'Angelo, Senior Vice President of Commercial Strategy and Partnerships at Xperi, said the agreement represents a significant step toward data-driven audience measurement for broadcast radio.
"By leveraging large-scale, aggregated in-car listening data, broadcasters can move beyond traditional sample-based measurement toward large-scale data-driven audience insights," D'Angelo said. "That enables better programming decisions, stronger advertiser accountability, and more competitive positioning in a data-driven media landscape."
Bob Walker, President of Operations for Cumulus Media, said the platform provides a new level of audience intelligence for broadcasters and advertisers. "We're proud to be the first broadcaster to deploy AutoStage Broadcaster Portal Premium as part of our broader effort to bring new sources of audience insight to radio," Walker said. "The AutoStage heat maps are a particularly compelling example, visually illustrating where listening is concentrated, on an aggregated basis, relative to advertiser locations."
The companies said the partnership addresses the industry's longstanding need for more timely, directly observed audience data, particularly for in-car listening, where the majority of radio consumption takes place. They added that the technology brings digital-style accountability and measurement to broadcast radio while helping stations optimize programming and improve advertiser return on investment.
Connoisseur Media Expands Weekend Syndication Lineup
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | 10:55am CT |
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Connoisseur Media is expanding its syndicated programming lineup through its partnership with Compass Media Networks, adding two original weekend shows to its national distribution portfolio: "Robby's Top 20 Countdown" and "She's Country." The move builds on the companies' existing relationship, which includes the syndicated Anna & Raven morning show, now heard in 85 markets.
Hosted by veteran radio personality Robby Bridges, Robby's Top 20 Countdown is a weekly retro countdown featuring the biggest hits of the 1980s and 1990s. Based at Connoisseur's WEBE-FM in Connecticut, the program will relaunch through Compass Media Networks with expanded national distribution. Current affiliates include WKJY/Long Island, WXMA/Louisville, Z93/Dayton and KDGL/Palm Springs, with additional stations expected to join.
The partnership also expands the reach of She's Country, a three-hour weekend program hosted by Emily Harlan that spotlights female country artists through music, interviews and behind-the-scenes stories. The show will relaunch nationally through Compass Media Networks and is already carried by stations including KBAY/San Jose, WWWF/Long Island, WCCQ and WXLC/Chicagoland, KUPL/Portland, KGNC/Amarillo, KLLL/Lubbock, KDES/Palm Springs, WCEN/Saginaw, KYKX/Tyler and KBRJ/Anchorage.
Connoisseur said both programs are designed as turnkey weekend offerings that integrate with existing station formats and automation systems while giving affiliates professionally produced, personality-driven programming without requiring additional local production resources.
Bridges said the partnership will help grow the reach of his countdown show and thanked Connoisseur and Compass executives for their support.
Harlan called the national expansion of She's Country "a dream come true," saying she is excited to bring the stories and music of female country artists to listeners across the country.
Keith Dakin, Senior Vice President of Programming for Connoisseur Media, said the company is excited to add both shows to the Compass Media Networks portfolio. He said She's Country arrives at a time when female country artists are enjoying strong momentum, while Robby's Top 20 Countdown gives Bridges the opportunity to deliver the chart-focused show he has long envisioned.
Nielsen: Audio Still Dominates Podcast Consumption
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | 2:27pm CT |
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Audio remains the primary way consumers engage with podcasts despite the rapid growth of video-enabled platforms, according to Nielsen's new report, Lean In vs. Lean Back: Profiling the Podcast Listener and Viewer.
The report finds that 90% of monthly podcast consumers listen to podcasts, while 62% also watch video versions. Across the top podcast genres, audio continues to dominate, with an average of just 2% of consumers watching exclusively, compared with 29% who listen exclusively. Another 69% both listen and watch podcasts.
Nielsen says sports content has emerged as the strongest crossover genre between audio and video, attracting the closest balance of listeners and viewers. The report notes that sports programming naturally lends itself to video through highlights, demonstrations and on-screen graphics, while continuing to drive strong audio engagement.
The research also identifies two distinct podcast audiences. Audio listeners tend to be married, highly educated and employed full time, using podcasts as a "secondary soundtrack" during commutes, work and other daily activities. Video viewers, by contrast, skew younger and more male, often treating podcasts as a dedicated entertainment experience watched at home.
For advertisers, Nielsen says the two formats deliver different advantages. Audio listeners are more likely to respond directly to advertising, with 46% researching products online after hearing an ad and 25% completing a web purchase. Video viewers, meanwhile, are more likely to engage with brands on social media and post a slightly higher direct online purchase rate of 29%, making them valuable for campaigns focused on visual storytelling and brand awareness.
The report concludes that marketers should view podcast audio and video as complementary rather than competing platforms. Audio remains the foundation for reaching audiences throughout the day, while video offers deeper visual engagement during consumers' dedicated viewing time.
Download the complete study here.
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Report: Howard Stern Cuts Staff, Show Schedule
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | 11:34am CT |
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Howard Stern has reportedly laid off about a dozen staff members as he prepares to reduce his SiriusXM schedule to one new show per week beginning after Labor Day.
According to a report by Page Six, staffers were notified during a Zoom meeting on Monday that the longtime host will scale back from his current schedule, with archived programming expected to fill much of the remaining airtime. Sources told the publication that Stern retained a core group of veteran producers but no longer requires as much new content. Employees affected by the layoffs were reportedly sent home immediately and will receive severance packages based on their years of service.
The reported changes come months after Stern signed a new three-year contract extension with SiriusXM in December. At the time, Stern said the agreement would allow him to have "more free time" while continuing his radio career.
"I am happy to announce that I have figured out a way to have it all," Stern said on his show following the renewal. "More free time and continuing to be on the radio."
His wife, Beth Stern, later told Andy Cohen on SiriusXM that the new arrangement was "working out really well," adding that continuing to host the show gives Stern an important creative outlet.
The latest report follows speculation last year about Stern's future with SiriusXM during contract negotiations. Those rumors ended when the broadcaster signed the extension, although financial terms were not disclosed. Page Six noted that Stern's previous five-year contract was reportedly valued at $500 million.
Neither Stern nor SiriusXM had publicly commented on the reported layoffs or programming changes at the time of publication.
Infotainment Systems Fuel Digital Audio Growth
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | 11:27am CT |
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The growing adoption of in-car infotainment systems is accelerating digital audio listening, according to new data from Edison Research's Share of Ear study. The report shows ownership of infotainment platforms such as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay has more than doubled since 2019, rising from 18% of Americans age 13 and older to 40% in 2026.
Among drivers who own one of these systems, digital listening has increased significantly over the past seven years. In 2019, 86% of their in-car listening time was devoted to non-digital audio sources, including over-the-air AM/FM radio, SiriusXM satellite radio and owned music such as CDs.
Today, digital sources account for 36% of listening time among infotainment system owners. That includes streaming music services, AM/FM station streams, podcasts and audiobooks.
Despite the growth in digital listening, traditional audio continues to dominate the dashboard. Edison reports that 64% of in-car listening by Android Auto and Apple CarPlay users still goes to non-digital sources, primarily over-the-air AM/FM radio and satellite radio.
The findings suggest that while infotainment systems are encouraging greater use of digital audio, they have not displaced traditional radio. Instead, Edison says owners appear to be making increasing use of the digital capabilities built into their vehicles, pointing to continued growth for digital audio consumption in the car.
Beasley Promotes Roldan to Tech Leadership Role
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | 11:21am CT |
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Beasley Media Group has promoted Jose Alberto Roldan to the newly created position of Head of Technology and Infrastructure. In the role, Roldan will oversee the company's technology strategy, information technology operations, infrastructure, cybersecurity and enterprise systems while continuing to lead initiatives that support Beasley's business objectives and digital transformation efforts.
Roldan joined Beasley Media Group in 2019 and most recently served as Vice President of IT. During his tenure, the company said he has played a key role in modernizing its technology environment, strengthening cybersecurity, improving operational efficiency and advancing strategic technology initiatives across the organization.
"Jose has been an exceptional leader and trusted member of our technology team since joining Beasley Media Group," said Chief Executive Officer Caroline Beasley. "His expertise, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to innovation have helped strengthen our technology infrastructure and position the Company for continued growth. We are pleased to recognize his many contributions with this well-deserved promotion."
Based in Tampa, FL, Roldan brings more than 20 years of experience in information technology and infrastructure management. He is recognized for his collaborative leadership and technical expertise in developing technology solutions that support business growth and operational performance.
"I am honored to take on this new role and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving Beasley Media Group," Roldan said. "Technology plays a vital role in every aspect of our business, and I look forward to working alongside our talented teams to further strengthen our infrastructure, enhance cybersecurity, and help drive innovation across the company."
Relevant Radio Adds Christian Music Stream
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | 11:02am CT |
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Relevant Radio has expanded its digital offerings with the launch of a 24/7 Contemporary Christian Music channel available exclusively through its free mobile app. The new streaming channel is designed to introduce new audiences to the Catholic talk network while giving existing listeners an additional music-focused option.
The move follows the March 2025 debut of the app's Sacred Music channel, which features Gregorian chants, choral works and hymns.
The CCM stream features songs that have been vetted from a Catholic perspective and includes artists such as TobyMac, Matthew West, Casting Crowns, Lauren Daigle and MercyMe. Relevant Radio said it also aims to become a leading destination for Catholic artists including Matt Maher, Seph Schlueter, Sarah Kroger, Ike Ndolo, Rita West, PJ Anderson, Taylor Tripodi and Village Lights.
Programming spans worship, pop, soft rock, country and adult contemporary music, with at least 20% of the playlist dedicated exclusively to Catholic artists.
Relevant Radio Music Director Jake Moore said the project reflects his belief in the positive impact Christian music can have on listeners. "I've listened to Christian music since I was a kid, and I am a personal testament to how this format can change lives," Moore said. "I desire to provide an impactful platform for other Catholics to have a place they can turn to for wholesome, upbeat songs, which is needed more than ever in today's world of entertainment."
The music stream also provides listeners with updates on current programming airing on the network, including The Patrick Madrid Show, The Drew Mariani Show and Family Rosary Across America.
Users can access the new channel by selecting the Christian Music icon on the app's home screen or searching for "Christian Music," and can switch between the music stream, Sacred Music and Relevant Radio's talk programming with a single tap.
TM Studios Debuts New KHMX Houston Jingle Package
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | 3:40pm CT |
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TM Studios has created a new custom jingle package for Audacy Hot AC Mix 96.5 (KHMX) Houston, giving the station an updated sonic identity designed to complement today's Hot AC and Top 40 formats.
Dubbed Mix Hot AC 2, the package features high-energy, upbeat jingles with contemporary vocals and fast-paced production intended to return listeners to the music more quickly while reinforcing the station's brand.
JR Ammons, Brand Manager of Mix 96.5 Houston, praised the collaboration. "TM created an amazing new sound for Mix; Dave and his team are ridiculously talented," Ammons said. "They took us in a different, new direction and I couldn't be happier. I'm thrilled with how it all came together. Mix has never sounded better."
Dave Bethell, Chief Operating Officer and Co-Owner of TM Studios, said the project reflects a shared vision for modern station branding. "I'm so happy to be working with JR once again," Bethell said. "We share similar visions on branding, the Hot AC format and how effective jingles are as a tool to make deeper connections with listeners, building trust and recall in a way imaging alone will never do."
The Mix Hot AC 2 package is now airing on KHMX Houston and is available for syndication to other stations. You can check out the individual cuts from the package here.
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Triton Digital Adds Amazon DSP to Audio Marketplace
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | 11:07am CT |
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Triton Digital has added Amazon DSP as a demand-side partner in its programmatic marketplace, giving advertisers new access to the company's global digital audio, streaming and podcast inventory while leveraging Amazon's first-party audience data.
The integration enables advertisers using Amazon DSP to combine Triton's premium audio inventory with Amazon's authenticated shopping, browsing and streaming signals for campaign planning, audience targeting and performance measurement.
The move expands Triton's growing roster of programmatic partners and comes as demand continues to increase for data-driven, cross-channel audio advertising. The company said the integration provides brands with a more unified way to buy digital audio campaigns at scale while improving precision and measurability.
"Amazon's addition to our programmatic marketplace gives advertisers a new, data-rich way to reach premium audio and podcast audiences at scale," said John Rosso, President and CEO of Triton Digital. "Pairing Amazon's first-party signals with Triton's global audio inventory makes campaigns smarter and more measurable, and it's another example of how we're building the connective tissue between digital audio and the broader programmatic ecosystem."
Chris Conetta, Director of Amazon DSP Supply, said the integration gives brands deeper insight into streaming audio and podcast advertising.
"Amazon DSP allows advertisers to apply signal-driven precision and measurability to digital streaming audio and podcasts - a space where brands have historically lacked that level of insight," Conetta said. "This integration with Triton Digital continues to expand that opportunity by connecting Amazon DSP's audience insights and optimization capabilities to premium streaming audio and podcast inventory at scale, so brands can confidently invest in audio as part of a full-funnel strategy."
iHeartRadio Launches Marky Ramone Digital Outlet
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | 2:31pm CT |
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iHeartMedia has launched "Marky Ramone Radio," a new digital station hosted by Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and longtime Ramones drummer Marky Ramone.
Available beginning today through the free iHeartRadio app and online, the station features a personally curated mix of music spanning punk, rock, Motown, soul, blues, British Invasion, new wave, jazz and other genres. Along with music, Ramone will share stories from his career, memories from his years with the Ramones and interviews with special guests.
"I'm happy to be joining iHeartRadio to host my own station," Ramone said. "I will play a variety of music that I like and some that I love... rock, motown, British invasion, punk, soul, new wave, jazz and a lot of surprises. I'll also talk about my musical career, my times with the Ramones and touring around the world. I'll also be talking to some cool people."
The launch coincides with the 50th anniversary of punk rock and Ramone's birthday.
Jon Zellner, President of Programming Operations & Digital Music for iHeartMedia, said the station offers fans an inside look at one of music's most influential genres. "Punk rock has always been about authenticity, individuality, and breaking the rules. No one embodies that spirit better than Marky Ramone," Zellner said. "As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of punk, Marky Ramone Radio gives fans unprecedented access to the music, stories, and artists that built one of the most influential genres of all time."
Harvey Leeds, CEO of Headquarters Media, said making the station available through the free iHeartRadio app ensures fans can enjoy the music that helped revolutionize rock and roll.
Listeners can access the station by searching "Marky Ramone" in the iHeartRadio app or at iHeartRadio.com.
TuneIn Expands to Bragi Smart Headphones
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | 2:34pm CT |
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Stingray has announced a new partnership that will bring TuneIn to Bragi's Audio Apps Space, expanding the streaming platform's availability across more than 20 million Bragi-powered smart headphones and earbuds.
The integration will give listeners easier access to TuneIn's lineup of live radio, sports, news, music and podcasts through Bragi's intelligent audio platform, which supports tap and voice controls for content discovery.
"Our mission has always been to make TuneIn available wherever people want to listen," said Rich Stern, CEO of TuneIn. "Bragi is an innovative leader that shares our vision for delivering exceptional audio experiences. Together, we're making it easier for listeners to access live radio, sports, news, music, and podcasts on Bragi-powered devices."
Bragi's software platform enables consumer audio brands to add smart features to headphones and earbuds. By integrating TuneIn, users will gain access to more than 100,000 radio stations, millions of podcasts and 100,000 audiobooks directly through compatible devices.
"At Bragi, we've built the software layer that brings today's best services onto audio products," said Bragi CEO Nikolaj Hviid. "Adding TuneIn to our platform gives our partners access to one of the world's leading live audio services and gives listeners an easier, more intuitive way to enjoy the news, sports, music, and podcasts they care about."
TuneIn, Stingray's streaming audio platform, reaches more than 75 million listeners in 122 countries. The service is integrated into more than 200 vehicle models and connected devices, allowing users to access its content on smartphones, smart speakers, in vehicles and now an expanding range of Bragi-powered headphones and earbuds.
KRCC Marks 75 Years Serving Southern Colorado
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, July 15, 2026 | 2:38pm CT |
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KRCC is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2026, marking three-quarters of a century as a public radio voice for Southern Colorado. The station signed on in 1951 as Colorado's first nonprofit FM station, originally established by Colorado College to support speech and drama education.
Since then, KRCC has evolved into a regional public media service operated by Colorado Public Radio (CPR) in partnership with Colorado College and supported by its members.
Over the decades, KRCC has expanded from a campus station using a World War II surplus transmitter into a network of stations and translators serving communities across Southern Colorado. In 1984, it became Colorado's third NPR member station and today combines local journalism with national and international news programming.
"For 75 years, KRCC has had the privilege of telling the stories of people and places across Southern Colorado," said Andrea Chalfin, Managing Editor of KRCC. "While the station has evolved over the decades, our commitment remains the same: reporting thoughtfully and shining a light on the communities that make this region such a special place to live."
Sean Nethery, Senior Vice President of Content & Planning at Colorado Public Radio, credited the station's supporters for its longevity. "We're grateful to the listeners, members, volunteers, staff and community partners who have made KRCC's first 75 years possible," Nethery said. "We look forward to continuing to serve Southern Colorado for generations to come."
As part of the anniversary celebration, KRCC will host a special open house on July 19 to coincide with the region's annual 719 Day festivities. The station is also offering a limited-edition 75th anniversary tote bag through the CPR online shop. A larger anniversary celebration is planned later this year, with additional details to be announced.
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Nielsen: AM/FM Radio Drives Vehicle Buying Decisions
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 14, 2026 | 2:17pm CT |
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A new Nielsen study suggests removing AM/FM radio from new vehicles could have a significant impact on consumer purchasing decisions, with many buyers saying they would reject vehicles that lack the feature. The report, "Tuned In: Why Removing AM/FM Radio Is a Multi-Billion Dollar Gamble for Automakers," was conducted in partnership with iHeart in May 2026 and surveyed more than 1,000 recent and prospective vehicle buyers.
The findings conclude that traditional radio remains one of the most valued in-car entertainment options despite the growth of streaming services and connected infotainment systems.
According to the study, roughly half of respondents said they would refuse to purchase a vehicle without AM/FM radio, while more than seven in 10 believe it should be included as standard equipment. Nielsen found that consumers rank AM/FM radio alongside smartphone integration such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and ahead of satellite radio and built-in subscription music services.
The research also examined actual listening habits. Drawing on Edison Research's first-quarter 2026 Share of Ear data, the report found that AM/FM radio accounts for 55% of all in-car audio listening, compared with 16% for streaming audio. Podcasts, YouTube, SiriusXM, owned music and audiobooks collectively make up the remaining 29%.
To better understand buying behavior, Nielsen employed a Choice-Based Conjoint analysis, a methodology commonly used by the automotive industry to evaluate how consumers weigh vehicle features against price. The analysis found that AM/FM radio was the second most influential infotainment feature affecting purchase decisions, trailing only smartphone integration.
The study also warns of potential brand consequences for automakers that eliminate broadcast radio. About half of respondents said they would view a manufacturer less favorably if it removed AM/FM radio from its vehicle lineup. The effect was especially pronounced among consumers age 55 and older, a demographic that represents many repeat vehicle buyers.
Beyond entertainment, respondents cited practical benefits that distinguish broadcast radio from streaming services. Eight in 10 said receiving Emergency Alert System notifications is an important vehicle feature, while a similar percentage value AM/FM radio for real-time traffic and local news. Two-thirds also said they consider zero-latency broadcasts important when listening to live sports, particularly younger drivers, men and hybrid or electric vehicle owners.
The report found consumers are not choosing between broadcast radio and connected technologies. Instead, they prefer vehicles that offer both. While 40% of drivers said connecting a smartphone is their first action when entering a vehicle, one in four said tuning to AM/FM radio is the first thing they do.
The findings come as Congress continues to consider the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, bipartisan legislation that would require AM radio capability in new vehicles. Supporters argue broadcast radio remains a critical source of emergency information and local news, while opponents contend automakers should determine vehicle features without federal mandates.
Read the entire study here.
Connoisseur Names Flatley Long Island Sales Director
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 14, 2026 | 2:10pm CT |
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Connoisseur Media has named Chris Flatley Director of Sales for its Long Island operations, effective July 13. Flatley will oversee revenue strategy and sales operations for the company's Long Island portfolio, including WALK (WALK 97.5), WKJY (KJOY 98.3), WWSK (94.3 The Shark), WWWF (103.1 The Wolf) WHLI 104.7 FM/1100 AM, Connrex Digital, and the company's live events, sponsorships and marketing solutions.
A Long Island native, Flatley brings more than 15 years of experience in media sales, advertising technology and streaming television. Most recently, he served as Vice President of Ad Sales for C15 Studio. Before that, he led advertising sales at fuboTV.
"Chris understands that this business is still about relationships, accountability and results," said Kristin Okesson, Senior Vice President and Regional Manager for Connoisseur Media. "Long Island is a unique market, and our clients and the Connoisseur Long Island team deserve a partner who knows the community, shows up every day and is willing to fight for their success."
Connoisseur said Flatley's combination of national media experience and deep local roots made him an ideal choice to lead its Long Island sales organization and support businesses through radio, digital marketing, live events and sponsorship opportunities.
"Throughout my career, I've been fortunate to work with innovative companies and talented teams, but the opportunity to lead a Long Island organization with such deep community ties was one I couldn't pass up," Flatley said. "I'm looking forward to building on the strong foundation already in place and working with our team to create new opportunities for our clients and community."
Flatley succeeds longtime Director of Sales Darren DiPrima, who recently transitioned to Station Manager. DiPrima welcomed the appointment, saying Flatley's leadership, sales expertise and digital background will help the company continue growing while strengthening relationships with Long Island advertisers.
Flatley earned a degree in Business Management from Molloy University and will be based at Connoisseur Media's Long Island offices in Airport Plaza.
CMG Appoints Phil Becker to New Growth Role
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 14, 2026 | 11:23am CT |
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Cox Media Group (CMG) has named Phil Becker Vice President, Audience & Content Growth for its radio division, a newly created executive position focused on expanding audiences across broadcast and digital platforms.
Becker will join CMG Radio on July 20 and will oversee audience growth strategies spanning over-the-air radio, streaming, podcasting, social media and emerging platforms. Working with programming leaders and market managers, he will focus on increasing audience reach, improving content performance, developing on-air talent and driving multi-platform growth.
"Phil brings a strong and unique combination of audience expertise, content leadership, and a passion for developing talent," said Rob Babin, President of CMG Radio. "His experience and audience-first approach will help strengthen our brands and position CMG Radio for continued growth."
Becker brings more than 25 years of experience in programming, content, digital media, audience development and brand strategy. Most recently, he served as Executive Vice President of Content at Alpha Media, where he led programming, content and digital strategy for more than 200 brands across 42 markets.
During his career, Becker has helped launch some of radio's first streaming apps, co-founded a radio company, developed national media brands and produced podcasts that have generated millions of downloads. His work has been featured by national media outlets including Good Morning America, NBC Nightly News, People, Rolling Stone, Wired, MTV and the Today show.
"CMG Radio has outstanding brands in tremendous markets," Becker said. "I'm excited to join Rob and the team to build on that success, deepen audience connections across platforms, and create remarkable content that matters to listeners, viewers, followers and fans."
Broadcasters Push Congress on AM Radio Bill
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 14, 2026 | 11:12am CT |
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Broadcasters from 31 states gathered on Capitol Hill Tuesday to urge Congress to pass the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, arguing that preserving AM radio in new vehicles is essential for public safety and emergency communications. Joining the broadcasters were representatives from AARP, the International Association of Fire Chiefs and local emergency management organizations, who met with lawmakers to press for final passage of the bipartisan legislation.
The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) said the measure has broad bipartisan backing in Congress, along with the endorsement of President Donald Trump and support from more than 125 organizations representing public safety, agriculture, labor and community groups.
"The time for Congress to act is now," said NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt. "Hundreds of broadcasters from across the country alongside nearly one million AM radio listeners have reached out to their members of Congress to support the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act and protect this essential public safety resource."
The Capitol Hill fly-in began Monday evening with a policy briefing and reception highlighting the coalition supporting the legislation. Broadcasters spent Tuesday meeting directly with members of Congress, urging them to send the bill to the president for signature.
The AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act (S. 315/H.R. 979), sponsored by Sens. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Ed Markey (D-MA), along with Reps. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and Frank Pallone (D-NJ), would require AM radio capability in new vehicles to ensure continued access to local news, emergency alerts and other critical public safety information.
According to NAB, the legislation has attracted 61 Senate cosponsors and 316 House cosponsors. It has already been approved by the Senate Commerce Committee, while the House Energy and Commerce Committee included it in its bipartisan surface transportation reauthorization package.
Supporters say the bill has also earned endorsements from organizations including the National Emergency Management Association, American Farm Bureau Federation, AARP, Native Public Media, SAG-AFTRA and the National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters.
MBC Launches 2026 Front Row Charity Auction
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 14, 2026 | 11:02am CT |
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The Museum of Broadcast Communications (MBC) has launched its 2026 Front Row Experiences Charity Auction, offering fans the chance to bid on more than 50 exclusive experiences with broadcasters, entertainers, athletes and media personalities while raising funds to support the museum's educational programs and preservation efforts.
Online bidding opens July 14 at 10am CT and runs through July 28 at 4pm CT via Charitybuzz and the museum's website.
Now in its 44th year, the Chicago-based Museum of Broadcast Communications continues its mission of preserving the history of television, radio, cable, streaming and digital media. The museum recently opened its new facility, featuring acclaimed exhibits including The Evolution of Late-Night Television and Johnny Carson: The Centennial. This fall, it will add the original Late Show with Stephen Colbert set from New York's Ed Sullivan Theater, donated by CBS and Colbert for permanent display.
Auction offerings include private lunches with actors Henry Winkler, Joe Mantegna and Bob Odenkirk; VIP tickets to The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon; a meet-and-greet with Billy Corgan and The Smashing Pumpkins; a Chicago Bears game-day experience with quarterback Caleb Williams; dinner with legendary Chicago meteorologist Tom Skilling; and behind-the-scenes access to NBC's One Chicago productions.
Radio fans can also bid on experiences with programs and personalities including The WGN Morning News, NBC 5 Chicago, CBS Chicago, Svengoolie, Elvis Duran and the Morning Show, Mojo in the Morning, The Breakfast Club, Jim Rome, Chris "Mad Dog" Russo, Bill O'Reilly and Chris Cuomo.
Music and sports packages feature opportunities with artists including Billy Corgan, Al Jardine of The Beach Boys and Poi Dog Pondering, as well as premium experiences with the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Blackhawks, Northwestern Football and Illinois Fighting Illini Basketball.
"Front Row Experiences is much more than a charity auction," said David Plier, Chair, President and CEO of the Museum of Broadcast Communications. "It is an opportunity to connect fans with the personalities, programs and performances that have shaped American culture."
Proceeds from the auction will support the museum's preservation initiatives, educational programming and complimentary field trips for high school students from underserved communities. This fall, the Washington, D.C.-based Library of American Broadcasting Foundation will honor the museum with its Preservation Award, recognizing its contributions to preserving America's broadcast heritage.
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