Top Radio News

MIW Study: Women Gain in GM, Programming Roles

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, February 24, 2026 | 3:07pm CT

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW)

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

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

General Managers

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

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

Sales Managers

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

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

Program Directors/Brand Managers

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

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

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

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

Andy Hawk to Lead Audacy's Sacramento Rock Outlets

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, February 24, 2026 | 11:22am CT

Andy Hawk

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

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

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

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

Podcasts Overtake AM/FM in Spoken-Word Audio

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, February 24, 2026 | 2:20pm CT

Edison Research

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

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

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

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

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

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

Report: Sports Audio Delivers Avid, Diverse Fans

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, February 24, 2026 | 11:00am CT

Audacy Insights

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read the entire Audacy Insights article here.

AWM Names 2026 National Board Leadership

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, February 24, 2026 | 4:30pm CT

Alliance for Women in Media (AWM)

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

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

Officer Roles

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

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

New Directors

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

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

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

Incumbent Directors

The following members will continue serving on the AWM Board:

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

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

Brian McKnight Sues Urban One, Raleigh Station

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, February 24, 2026 | 4:15pm CT

Brian McKnight

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read the entire article here.

Sports Radio Audience Delivers Upscale Impact

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, February 23, 2026 | 12:38pm CT

Cumulus Media | Westwood One

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read the entrie blog post here.

Civic Media Revamps News/Talk Format in Wisconsin

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, February 23, 2026 | 12:22pm CT

Civic Media

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

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

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

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

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

JVC Ups Mallory, Adds Miller in Fort Walton Beach

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, February 23, 2026 | 12:10pm CT

Scott Mallory

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

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

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

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

BFOA Announces 2026 Honorees of the Leadership Awards

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, February 23, 2026 | 11:59am CT

Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA)

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

The 2026 Leadership Award honorees are:

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

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

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

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

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

Santita Jackson to Continue ''Keep Hope Alive''

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, February 23, 2026 | 3:40pm CT

''Keep Hope Alive''

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

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

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

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

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

Salem Podcast Network Launches The Danielle Gill Show

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, February 23, 2026 | 12:31pm CT

Danielle Gill

Salem Podcast Network, a division of Salem Media, will debut a new podcast, The Danielle Gill Show, on Monday, February 23. Hosted by conservative author Danielle Gill, the program will feature analysis of cultural issues, politics, news and social trends. New episodes are scheduled for release four times per week across the Salem Podcast Network.

Gill said the podcast is intended to create space for conversations about culture, politics and Christianity, and will extend discussions she has been having about faith, family and living with conviction in what she describes as a liberal culture. The show will include interviews with guests addressing cultural debates and ideas that have influenced Western society.

Gill is the author of YGod: An Intelligent Discussion on the Relevance of Faith and The Choice: The Abortion Divide in America. She has produced digital content for PragerU and has served as an ambassador for Turning Point USA. She also appears regularly across national media platforms, including Salem properties.

Phil Boyce, Senior Vice President of Content at Salem Media, said Gill represents a new generation of conservative voices and reflects the direction of the network's audience growth strategy.

Gill resides in North Texas with her husband, Congressman Brandon Gill, and their two children. She is the daughter of conservative author and commentator Dinesh D'Souza, who said he plans to appear on the podcast.

The Danielle Gill Show will be available on major podcast platforms and distributed nationwide by Salem Podcast Network.

Jeff Liberman Exits Entravision After 25 Years

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, February 20, 2026 | 7:19pm CT

Jeff Liberman

Entravision Communications has parted ways with longtime President and Chief Operating Officer Jeff Liberman, ending a nearly 26-year run with the Spanish-language media company that owns 46 Spanish-language radio stations.

Liberman's departure closes one of the longest executive tenures in U.S. Hispanic radio. He joined Entravision Communications in 2000 following its acquisition of Latin Communications Group, where he had expanded operations from two stations to 17 across California, Colorado, New Mexico and Washington, DC.

He was named President of Entravision's Radio Division shortly after the acquisition and led the unit through a period of national expansion and digital transformation. During his tenure, the company launched the Entravision Radio Network, reaching 94% of the U.S. Latino market by 2014 through syndication efforts. He also established Entravision Solutions, a national representation firm designed to monetize broadcast inventory for partner networks.

Liberman advanced to Chief Operating Officer in 2012 and was appointed President and COO in 2017. In that role, he oversaw 98 media properties across 31 national offices, including television affiliates aligned with Fox, The CW and Univision, as well as dozens of Spanish-language radio stations.

According to his LinkedIn profile, Liberman centralized TV master control operations, generating $1.5 million in annual savings, migrated traffic systems to the cloud to strengthen cybersecurity protections, and led the launch of multiple podcasts and radio programs as part of a digital audio growth strategy. He also directed more than 270 weekly newscasts and helped guide expansion of the company's digital division through acquisitions and the appointment of a Chief Digital Officer.

WGR Brand Expands to Rochester on 95.7 FM

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, February 20, 2026 | 12:12pm CT

WROC-FM Rochester

Audacy is expanding its WGR Sports Radio brand into the Rochester market, rebranding WROC-FM as WGR Rochester on 95.7 FM. The change takes effect at 11pm ET on February 22. While the WROC call letters will remain, the station will carry WGR Rochester branding and air a lineup built around WGR's Buffalo-based programming, supplemented by a locally focused show for Rochester listeners.

The move follows a recently announced FM simulcast expansion of WGR Sports Radio in Buffalo and extends the brand's reach across Western New York.

Under the new format, Rochester mornings will begin with "The Jeremy and Joe Show" from 5:30-10am, followed by "The Northtown Automotive Extra Point Show" from 10am-noon. "Sabres Live" will air from noon-1pm, delivering updates on the NHL's Buffalo Sabres.

At 1pm, Gene Battaglia will host "The Sports Bar," a Rochester-focused program dedicated to local sports coverage, running until 3pm. "Schopp and Bulldog" will round out the weekday lineup from 3-7pm.

Tim Wenger, Senior Vice President and Market Manager for Audacy Buffalo and Rochester, said the hybrid approach combines WGR's established sports programming with a dedicated local presence tailored to Rochester fans. He noted the expansion strengthens coverage of Buffalo-area teams while maintaining a local sports voice in the Rochester market.

With the launch of WGR Rochester, Audacy further extends WGR's footprint across Western New York.

Bustos Media to Mark America's 250th Anniversay

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, February 20, 2026 | 11:00am CT

Bustos Media

Bustos Media has announced plans to mark America's 250th anniversary by airing 250 Public Service Announcements recognizing the contributions of immigrants to the United States. The campaign, titled "U.S.A Land of Opportunity," will spotlight outstanding immigrants from around the world and their role in building the nation.

The PSAs will air across Bustos Media stations for 50 days leading up to July 4 and will be produced in both English and Spanish.

President and CEO Amador Bustos said the project is the company's contribution to the national celebration. He named Chief Revenue Officer Edward Distel as executive producer of the series.

Distel, who has worked with Bustos Media for 34 years and has more than 50 years of broadcast experience, is a Vietnam Special Forces veteran who received a Purple Heart and other decorations for valor during his military service.

"As I proudly served in the armed forces to defend this nation, I will proudly honor the many immigrant men and women who have made America great," Distel said in a statement.

In addition to airing on Bustos Media stations, the company said the PSAs will be made available at no charge to other broadcasters interested in carrying the series.

Chairman Carr Announces Pledge America Campaign

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, February 20, 2026 | 3:42pm CT

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has launched the Pledge America Campaign, calling on the nation's broadcasters to support the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence with patriotic and civic-focused programming.

The initiative aligns with the White House's Salute to America 250 Task Force, established by President Donald J. Trump to coordinate a yearlong celebration culminating on July 4, 2026. Festivities are set to begin Memorial Day 2025 and continue through the semiquincentennial.

Carr said the Pledge America Campaign encourages broadcasters to air content that promotes civic education, national pride and American history in support of the anniversary. He noted that broadcasters, consistent with their public interest obligations, are positioned to provide programming responsive to the needs and interests of their local communities.

In a statement, Carr said the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence offers an opportunity to reflect on the nation's founding principles and its history. He cited concerns about declining civics education and suggested broadcasters could help address the issue through locally tailored programming.

Examples outlined by the FCC include running public service announcements or specials focused on civic education and American history; highlighting local historic sites during news programming; beginning the broadcast day with the national anthem or Pledge of Allegiance; airing music by composers such as John Philip Sousa, Aaron Copland, Duke Ellington and George Gershwin; offering daily "Today in American History" features; and partnering with community organizations engaged in related efforts.

Participation in the Pledge America Campaign is voluntary. Broadcasters may indicate their commitment and highlight relevant programming to their audiences as part of the nationwide observance leading up to America's 250th birthday in 2026.

Report: Podcasting Tops 53% Monthly Reach in U.S.

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 1:10pm CT

Triton Digital

Podcasting now reaches more than half of the U.S. population each month, with 53.6% of Americans listening to or watching podcasts, according to Triton Digital's 2025 U.S. Podcast Report. The annual study, powered by IAB Tech Lab-certified Podcast Metrics and Demos surveys of 12,000 monthly listeners, highlights continued audience growth, expanding video consumption and evolving advertiser opportunities.

Monthly reach is strongest among adults 18-34 at 68.7%, followed by 35-54 at 62.1%, while 35% of those 55+ report monthly usage. Hispanic consumers (66.1%) and Black/African American consumers (59.0%) index strongly for monthly reach.

Podcast listeners skew younger, more educated and more affluent than the general population, with above-average representation among college graduates and households earning $100,000 or more.

In RSS-based new episode downloads, Apple Podcasts leads with 49.7% share, followed by Spotify at 15.7% and iHeartRadio at 7.6%. However, YouTube continues to gain ground as the most-used platform overall for podcast consumption. In 2025, 37.7% of monthly listeners say they use YouTube most often, compared with 24.6% for Spotify and 11.3% for Apple Podcasts.

Listening remains the dominant format, but video continues to grow. Thirteen percent of the monthly audience listens only, 7% watches only, and 80% both listen and watch podcasts.

Comedy leads all genres in monthly reach at 41.5%, followed by News (26.5%) and Society & Culture (22.8%). Science, History and Fiction skew toward listening, while Music and Sports over-index for watching. Comedy bridges both behaviors.

The influx of new listeners is helping drive growth in niche categories such as Kids & Family, Arts and Music, with as much as 45% of Kids & Family consumers reporting they are new to podcasting within the past year.

Among the top 20 podcasts by downloads in 2025, nine are News programs. NPR News Now ranks as the most downloaded podcast of the year.

The iHeart Audience Network leads in overall downloads among sales networks, while "Bulwark Takes" tops the list of new podcast launches based on average weekly downloads.

As audiences diversify, new listeners show strong purchase intent across categories including wireless providers, online shopping, quick-service restaurants and weight-loss products.

Triton says it plans to expand its tools in 2026 to deliver deeper insights and support industry collaboration as podcasting continues to evolve.

The full report is available from Triton Digital at TritonRankers.com