Top Radio News

Nielsen: AM/FM Radio Drives Vehicle Buying Decisions

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 14, 2026 | 2:17pm CT

Nielsen

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

Chris Flatley

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

Phil Becker

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

Broadcasters Push Congress on AM Radio Bill

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

Front Row Experiences Charity Auction

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.

NRG Media Closes on Sale of Omaha Stations

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 14, 2026 | 11:17am CT

NRG Media

Usher Media has completed its acquisition of five radio stations serving the Omaha-Council Bluffs market from NRG Media, finalizing a transaction first announced in February. The deal includes KOIL-AM (1290) in Omaha, KOPW-FM (106.9) in Plattsmouth, KOZN-AM (1620) and KZOT-AM (1180) in Bellevue, Nebraska, and KQKQ-FM (98.5) in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

Seller NRG Media, led by CEO Mary Quass, is an Iowa-based broadcaster that has operated a regional portfolio of radio stations across Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska and Wisconsin for more than two decades.

The buyer, Nebraska-based Usher Media, is headed by Alan Usher. When the transaction was announced earlier this year, Usher said the acquisition reflected his company's commitment to local broadcasting and the Omaha market.

The stations included in the sale are KOIL-AM, operating with 5 kW day and night; KOZN-AM, operating with 10 kW daytime and 1 kW nighttime power; KZOT-AM, operating with 25 kW days and 1 kW nights; KOPW-FM, operating with 25 kW at 328 feet HAAT; and KQKQ-FM, operating with 100 kW at 1,102 feet HAAT.

Kalil & Co., Inc. served as the exclusive broker for the transaction.

Elvis Duran, Paul Heyman Launch Podrophenia

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, July 14, 2026 | 11:37am CT

Podrophenia

Elvis Duran, WWE Hall of Famer Paul Heyman, Looking4Larry and MCM Studios have partnered to launch Podrophenia, a full-service podcast, vodcast and creator development company designed to help creators and brands produce, grow and monetize premium content.

The venture also includes Emmy Award-winning producer Mitchell Stuart and media entrepreneur Michael Canzoniero as co-founders. Together, the partners aim to provide creators with production, marketing, audience development, distribution and sponsorship resources in an increasingly competitive podcast landscape.

"I've seen firsthand the need for a state-of-the-art production facility for content creators, particularly podcasters," said Elvis Duran. "With Paul Heyman and MCM Studios, we're playing with the big boys!"

Heyman said Podrophenia is designed to go beyond traditional turnkey production studios by creating custom environments tailored to each show's personality and concept.

"Podrophenia is the first studio specifically customized to the host's personality and also the concept," Heyman said. "We're not just building a content hub for creators, we're building a creator hub for the content."

Through the Elvis Duran Group's relationship with iHeartMedia and the Elvis Duran Podcast Network, Podrophenia-produced shows will have access to one of the industry's largest audio distribution ecosystems.

Based at MCM Studios' production facility in Manhattan, Podrophenia will offer broadcast-quality audio and video production, customizable studio sets, post-production services and collaborative workspaces for both established talent and emerging creators.

The company also plans to produce its own original programming across entertainment, lifestyle, culture, sports, business and human-interest categories. Its first original series, Hello Randy, hosted by Say Yes to the Dress star Randy Fenoli, is expected to premiere later this year through iHeartMedia and the Elvis Duran Podcast Network, with additional original programming announcements planned throughout 2026.

Mitchell Stuart said the company was created to give creators the tools needed to build sustainable media businesses. "Creators today need more than a microphone and a platform-they need production excellence, audience development, marketing support, distribution pathways and opportunities to build sustainable businesses around their content," Stuart said.

Heidi Raphael to Lead New York Broadcasters

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 13, 2026 | 11:32am CT

Heidi Raphael

The New York State Broadcasters Association (NYSBA) has named Heidi Raphael as its next President and Chief Executive Officer, succeeding longtime President and CEO David Donovan. Raphael will take over leadership of the association later this year as Donovan transitions from the role after 15 years at the helm. Donovan will remain with NYSBA, continuing to oversee the association's government relations and advocacy efforts in Albany and Washington, DC.

During Donovan's tenure, NYSBA expanded its influence through legislative advocacy, education, professional development, public service initiatives, and industry engagement, strengthening its position as one of the nation's leading state broadcast associations.

Raphael joins NYSBA from Beasley Media Group, where she has served as Chief Communications Officer for nearly a decade, overseeing corporate communications strategy and supporting the company's growth initiatives. Before joining Beasley, she spent more than 20 years with Greater Media, rising to Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications.

A Western New York native, Raphael brings more than three decades of experience in broadcasting, communications, public affairs, and industry advocacy.

"We are thrilled to welcome Heidi Raphael as the next President and CEO of the New York State Broadcasters Association," said NYSBA Board Chairman Chris Musial, Vice President and General Manager of WBBZ-TV. "Heidi brings an exceptional combination of leadership experience, industry knowledge, and passion for broadcasting."

Donovan praised the selection, saying Raphael's experience, energy, and commitment to local broadcasting make her well-suited to lead the association into its next chapter. He added that he looks forward to working closely with her during the transition while continuing to advocate for New York broadcasters.

Raphael called the appointment both an honor and a homecoming. "I am incredibly honored and humbled to follow in the footsteps of David Donovan as President and CEO of the New York State Broadcasters Association," she said. "As someone who was born, raised, and began my broadcasting career in Western New York, the opportunity to return home, serve New York's broadcasters, and be closer to my family is truly special."

She also thanked Beasley Media Group and CEO Caroline Beasley for their support and the opportunities that helped prepare her for the new role.

John Lewis Expands Cumulus Regional VP Role

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 13, 2026 | 11:54am CT

John Lewis

Cumulus Media has promoted John Lewis to Regional Vice President, expanding his responsibilities to include oversight of the company's stations in Fort Walton Beach and Pensacola, FL. Lewis will continue to lead Cumulus' operations in Huntsville, AL, and Chattanooga, TN, while overseeing the company's audio brands across radio and digital platforms in the newly added Florida markets.

A 17-year Cumulus veteran, Lewis was named Regional Vice President for Huntsville and Chattanooga in 2022. He joined the company in 2009 and previously served as Vice President and Regional Market Manager for Chattanooga and Macon, GA. His leadership experience also includes market manager roles in Albany, NY, Pensacola, FL, Lexington, KY, and Memphis, TN.

"John is a proven leader when it comes to building a positive culture with a foundation of measurable results," said Mark Sullivan, Senior Vice President, Operations, Cumulus Media. "I am pleased that in his expanded role, he will share his deep experience and knowledge with our terrific teams in Fort Walton Beach and Pensacola."

Lewis said the promotion is especially meaningful because it brings him back to a market where he previously worked. "I'm honored and excited to work with the Pensacola and Fort Walton Beach teams," he said. "Having spent a couple of years early in my career with Cumulus Pensacola, it's especially meaningful to return. With outstanding teams, great brands, and a strong track record of success, I look forward to building on that momentum and helping both markets reach their full potential."

Cumulus operates four stations in Fort Walton Beach, including WKSM-FM (99 Rock), WNCV-FM (Coast 93.3), WYZB-FM (Y105.5), and WZNS-FM (Z96). In Pensacola, the company owns WCOA News Talk 104.9 FM/1370 AM, WJTQ-FM (Jet 100.7), WMEZ-FM (The New Hot 94.1), Magic 106.1 (WRRX-FM), and 102.7 WXBM.

Appeals Court Backs Cumulus in Nielsen Case

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 13, 2026 | 3:26pm CT

A federal appeals court has upheld a preliminary injunction blocking Nielsen from enforcing a policy that would require broadcasters purchasing its national radio ratings data to also buy its local ratings services, handing Cumulus Media a significant victory in its ongoing antitrust lawsuit against the ratings company.

In a unanimous decision issued Monday, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit affirmed a lower court's ruling that Nielsen's pricing policy likely violated antitrust law by using its dominance in national radio audience measurement to pressure customers into purchasing local ratings data they did not want.

The dispute centers on Nielsen's 2024 Network Policy, which Cumulus challenged in a lawsuit filed last year. Cumulus alleged the policy unlawfully tied access to Nielsen's Nationwide ratings service-the only national radio ratings product of its kind-to the purchase of local ratings in every market where a broadcaster operates.

The appeals court agreed with the district court's finding that Nielsen effectively coerced Cumulus by offering a standalone Nationwide subscription at what the lower court described as an "exorbitant" price. According to court filings, the standalone offer was roughly 10 times what Cumulus had previously paid under its existing agreement and would have cost the company approximately $1.2 million more than purchasing Nielsen's bundled national and local data.

The three-judge panel concluded Nielsen's pricing left Cumulus with no meaningful choice and likely had anticompetitive effects by restricting competition in the local ratings market, where Eastlan is Nielsen's primary competitor.

The injunction, first issued in December and reaffirmed in January, remains in place while the underlying antitrust case proceeds in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. It bars Nielsen from enforcing the disputed Network Policy or charging what the court considers a commercially unreasonable price for standalone national ratings data.

The appeals court also ruled that Cumulus demonstrated it would suffer irreparable harm without the injunction, citing the potential loss of customers, market share and goodwill.

Cumulus, which owns and operates 395 stations and distributes programming through Westwood One, has argued that Nielsen's policy affected hundreds of millions of dollars in commerce. The company is sought monetary damages and a permanent injunction against the policy.

The court also clarified that Cumulus' Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing does not prevent the company from pursuing its claims against Nielsen, although Nielsen's counterclaims remain stayed during the bankruptcy proceedings.

Neither Nielsen nor Cumulus immediately commented on the ruling.

Binnie Media Appoints Jodie Gallant as Executive VP

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 13, 2026 | 2:38pm CT

Jodie Gallant

Binnie Media has appointed Jodie Gallant as Executive Vice President of Strategy for Integrated Marketing, expanding the company's focus on connected TV (CTV) and integrated marketing services across New Hampshire and Maine.

Gallant, who has been working with Binnie Media since early 2026, has helped build the division's strategic framework, including campaign systems, audience-targeting methods, performance reporting standards and operational workflows designed to scale integrated marketing solutions for clients.

In her new role, she will oversee the strategic development, operational infrastructure and business growth of the company's expanding CTV and integrated marketing division.

Binnie Media CEO Massimo Rosati said Gallant has already made a significant impact on the company's growth strategy. "We have watched Jodie build something exceptional here since day one," Rosati said. "Her ability to think strategically, operate with precision, and bring clients along on the journey is exactly what this division needs at this stage of growth."

Gallant brings more than 25 years of experience in marketing, brand strategy and business leadership. She is the founder of JMG Marketing, a Lakes Region agency that has served more than 300 local and regional businesses over the past 15 years. Her experience includes brand strategy, media buying, digital marketing, campaign analytics and executive coaching.

"Binnie Media has something rare - a platform with real reach, a team that operates with integrity, and leadership that thinks big," Gallant said. "CTV and integrated marketing are where local and regional businesses are going to win or lose their visibility in the next decade, and I am proud to be leading that work here."

Gallant is based in Laconia, NH, where she also owns WORK Lakes Region, a coworking and event studio. She also serves as secretary of the Belknap Economic Development Council.

SiriusXM to Air Live Coverage of The 154th Open

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 13, 2026 | 4:52pm CT

SiriusXM

SiriusXM will provide more than 40 hours of live coverage of the 154th Open Championship from Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport, England, July 16-19.

The broadcasts will air on The Open Radio channel, available on SiriusXM channel 92 and the SiriusXM app. Live coverage begins at 2am ET on Thursday and Friday, and at 4am ET on Saturday and Sunday, continuing through the conclusion of each day's play.

SiriusXM will carry The Open Radio broadcast produced by The R&A, featuring Marcus Buckland, Sue Thearle, Robert Dinwiddie, Dave Farrar, Matt Adams, Sophie Walker, Raymond Burns, Amy Boulden, Paul Eales, Harry Ewing, SiriusXM's Brendon de Jonge and Emilia Doran, and talkSPORT 2's Rupert Bell.

Following each day's competition, SiriusXM will air a live two-hour post-round show hosted by Gary Williams, Fred Albers, Will Haskett and Robert Damron, recapping the day's action and previewing the next round.

Royal Birkdale will host The Open for the 11th time. The course last welcomed the championship in 2017, when Jordan Spieth captured the Claret Jug to earn his third major championship before turning 24.

In addition to its Open Championship coverage, SiriusXM offers year-round weekday golf programming featuring news, analysis, instruction and interviews with former tour professionals and golf experts, including Rocco Mediate, Johnson Wagner, Michael Breed, Colt Knost, John Maginnes, Taylor Zarzour, Chantel McCabe and Brian Katrek.

''Raiders'' Podcast Joins TikTok Podcast Network

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 13, 2026 | 2:27pm CT

Raiders of the Lost Podcast

iHeartPodcasts and TikTok have added the popular film and television series "Raiders of the Lost Podcast" to the TikTok Podcast Network. Hosted by identical twin brothers, filmmakers and movie enthusiasts James and Anthony Deveney, the podcast has built a large following through its in-depth reviews, analysis of new releases and classic films, and interviews with actors, filmmakers and other industry professionals.

The addition expands the lineup of the TikTok Podcast Network, a partnership launched in March between TikTok and iHeartMedia to bring leading TikTok creators into long-form podcasting. The network combines TikTok's creator community with iHeartPodcasts' production, distribution and monetization capabilities.

"We started this podcast because we could talk about movies and television for hours anyway, so we figured we might as well turn on some microphones," the Deveney brothers said. "We're thrilled to join iHeart and the TikTok Podcast Network and can't wait to bring even more reviews, deep dives and conversations to listeners everywhere."

Dan Page, TikTok's Global Head of Global Media and Licensing Partnerships, said the podcast is a natural fit for the network's entertainment-focused audience. "Raiders of the Lost Podcast is built for passionate movie fans, and we're excited to welcome James and Anthony to the network," Page said.

Will Pearson, President of iHeartPodcasts, praised the duo for building one of the world's most popular movie-focused podcasts. "Their passion, knowledge and genuine love of storytelling have resonated with audiences everywhere," Pearson said.

The TikTok Podcast Network also features podcasts hosted by Carter Gregory, Tim Martin, Clifford Taylor IV and Lele Pons, with "Caroline's Closet," hosted by Caroline Vazzana, slated to join soon.

"Raiders of the Lost Podcast" is available on the iHeartRadio app and all major podcast platforms, with new episodes released every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Clips and behind-the-scenes content will also be shared on TikTok.

Tony Reali Launches New Sports Culture Podcast

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, July 13, 2026 | 2:32pm CT

Real Deal with Tony Reali

iHeartPodcasts and Real Ones Media have launched "REAL DEAL with Tony Reali," a new weekly sports culture podcast that explores the iconic moments that continue to shape sports long after the final whistle. Hosted by longtime ESPN personality Tony Reali, the podcast debuts July 14, with new episodes released every Tuesday.

Each episode centers on a memorable sports moment-whether a play, photograph, clip or legendary figure-and uses it as a starting point for conversations about its lasting impact on sports and popular culture.

The series features interviews with athletes, broadcasters, comedians, journalists, superfans, creators and others connected to the featured moments. Through humor, nostalgia and storytelling, Reali and his guests revisit the events, uncover behind-the-scenes perspectives and examine why they continue to resonate with fans years or even decades later.

Unlike traditional sports debate or recap shows, "REAL DEAL" focuses on the emotions, memories and cultural significance of unforgettable moments in sports history.

"REAL DEAL with Tony Reali" is distributed by iHeartPodcasts and is available on the iHeartRadio app and all major podcast platforms.

Podtrac: Crime Junkie Tops June Podcast Rankings

RADIO ONLINE | Sunday, July 12, 2026 | 4:33pm CT

Podtrac

Podtrac has released its June 2026 podcast rankings, with Crime Junkie claiming the number one spot among the top U.S. podcasts, while seasonal declines in audience and downloads affected most podcast publishers and networks.

The true crime podcast from Audiochuck debuted at the top of the monthly ranking, pushing The Daily from The New York Times to No. 2. NPR's NPR News Now and Up First from NPR followed at Nos. 3 and 4, while Dateline NBC rounded out the top five.

Other top 10 podcasts included Fox News Hourly Update, Pod Save America, Pardon My Take, The Ben Shapiro Show and Stuff You Should Know. The biggest mover in the Top 20 was Rotten Mango, which climbed eight positions to No. 17, while Today, Explained rose two spots to No. 18.

Among podcast publishers, the iHeart Audience Network remained the industry's largest, reaching 55.1 million unique monthly U.S. listeners and generating 267.6 million U.S. streams and downloads across nearly 19,000 active shows. iHeartPodcasts retained the No. 2 position with 29.5 million monthly listeners, followed by NPR Sales Network, Libsyn, and Vox Media.

Rounding out the top 10 publishers were PodcastOne, The Walt Disney Company, Fox Audio Network, DailyWire+ and Barstool Sports.

Podtrac said unique monthly audiences and total downloads declined for most publishers in June, consistent with seasonal patterns observed in previous years. Despite the month-to-month softness, the rankings continued to reflect the dominance of major podcast networks and established news, true crime and sports programming in attracting U.S. listeners.

NAB Unveils Redesigned Spot Center for PSA's

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, July 10, 2026 | 2:44pm CT

National Association of Broadcasters (NAB)

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has launched a redesigned Spot Center, providing local radio and television stations with an improved way to access free public service campaigns from nonprofit organizations. The updated website features a cleaner, more intuitive interface that allows broadcasters to browse, download and voluntarily air public service announcements covering issues affecting local communities, including heatstroke, Alzheimer's disease and drug-impaired driving.

The NAB Spot Center offers broadcast-ready public service materials at no cost to stations, featuring educational campaigns from established organizations focused on important public issues.

The redesign is intended to make it easier for broadcasters to find and use trusted content that supports their longstanding commitment to serving local communities beyond news and entertainment.

NAB said the Spot Center helps connect radio and television stations with credible educational resources they can use to inform and engage their audiences through voluntary public service programming.

The Spot Center serves as a central destination for broadcasters seeking public service materials from nonprofit organizations, with stations retaining discretion over which campaigns they choose to air.

Check out the new Spot Center at psa.nab.org.

WATH/Athens Debuts ''Southern Ohio Gold'' Format

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, July 10, 2026 | 4:32pm CT

WATH-AM/Athens, GA

Total Media has rebranded WATH-AM (970/97.3) in Athens, OH, flipping from Sports to Oldies with the launch of "Southern Ohio Gold." The new format debuted Friday, July 10, at 3pm and is programmed by Seaboard Networks CEO Steve Clendenin.

The move restores an Oldies format to the heritage station, a change that holds special significance for Total Media Director of Programming JJ Hale, who grew up listening to WATH.

"This project was especially meaningful to me because I grew up listening to Athens' heritage station, 970 WATH," Hale said. "Over the years, the station went through several format changes, and it was always my hope to bring back the oldies sound and restore the heritage feel that made WATH such an important part of the community."

Hale credited Clendenin and Seaboard Networks for helping bring the format to life, saying the partnership made "Southern Ohio Gold" the right fit for the station and praising Clendenin's guidance throughout the launch process.

Clendenin said he is excited to expand the reach of the format through the partnership with Total Media. "We are excited to bring this specially curated format to WATH," he said. "Gold has proved to be a successful format and I am thrilled to partner with Total Media to bring this format to their audience."

The new format is heard on WATH's 970 AM signal and 97.3 FM translator, serving listeners throughout the Athens area.