Top Radio News

Skyview Networks Completes Ownership Transition

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 1, 2026 | 2:51pm CT

Steve Jones

Skyview Networks has completed an ownership transition, with President and CEO Steve Jones assuming full leadership of the company, effective immediately.

In a companywide message, Jones said the move strengthens Skyview's long-term direction while maintaining continuity in its operations and strategic focus. He noted that the leadership team and day-to-day priorities will remain centered on client outcomes, operational performance and teamwork.

The transition also marks a milestone for the company's founder, Ken Thiele, who launched Skyview Networks in 1996. Thiele credited the company's success to its employees and expressed confidence in Jones' leadership, citing his role in expanding the company's portfolio and driving growth.

Jones also acknowledged shareholders Diana Chamberlain and Dave Dickson for their support during the transition, noting they will continue to be involved with the company in advisory roles.

Skyview Networks has grown from a sports broadcast distribution company into a major player in audio technology, syndication and advertising sales, now reaching more than 150 million listeners weekly through over 10,000 affiliates.

Jones, who joined the company after a long career with The Walt Disney Company and ABC Radio, has led Skyview through a period of expansion, deepening partnerships across media, sports and advertising sectors.

He said he is committed to leading the company with transparency and a long-term focus on its employees and business as Skyview continues its growth trajectory.

Radio's Reach, ROI Challenge "Dead" Narrative

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 1, 2026 | 6:14pm CT

Spotset Media Network

A new commentary from media executives Howard Robertson and Ryan Robertson argues that reports of radio's demise are overstated, citing strong audience reach and return on investment despite lingering perception challenges among marketers.

According to data from Nielsen, radio reaches 93% of U.S. adults each month, making it the top-reaching media platform in the country. The authors contend that modern radio extends beyond traditional AM/FM, encompassing streaming, mobile apps, smart speakers, and connected cars.

Despite that reach, radio continues to rank low in perceived effectiveness among advertisers. The authors point to findings from Nielsen's 2025 Global Annual Marketing Report showing that radio delivers some of the highest ROI among media channels-outperforming video, display, podcasts, television, print, search, and connected TV-while still being undervalued by buyers.

The commentary emphasizes radio's strength in local connection, arguing that its ability to influence consumer behavior is tied to its community-based nature and trusted on-air personalities. Unlike broader digital campaigns focused on scale, radio's impact is driven by familiarity and relevance within local markets, the authors note.

They also highlight the role of radio hosts as early "influencers," citing live reads, endorsements, and community engagement as differentiators that cannot be easily replicated by automated or algorithm-driven platforms.

The piece concludes that while perceptions may lag, radio remains a widely consumed and effective advertising medium, with its combination of reach, trust, and local influence continuing to deliver measurable results.

Wirthlin Named Market Manager for Cumulus SLC

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 1, 2026 | 6:19pm CT

Joyce Wirthlin

Cumulus Media has appointed Joyce Wirthlin as Vice President/Market Manager for its Salt Lake City operations. In the role, Wirthlin will oversee a portfolio of five stations and associated digital assets, including KBEE-FM (B98.7), KBER-FM, KENZ-FM-KHTB-FM (Power 94.9/101.9), KKAT-AM, and KUBL-FM (93.3 The Bull), along with the company's digital marketing services for local advertisers.

Wirthlin most recently served as Market President for iHeartMedia Salt Lake City. She previously held the position of Senior Vice President of Sales in the market.

Dave Milner, President of Operations for Cumulus Media, said Wirthlin brings extensive market knowledge and strong local relationships, noting her experience in delivering integrated audio and digital marketing solutions.

Wirthlin called the appointment a "full-circle moment," citing her early career ties to several of the cluster's stations. She said the combination of established audio brands and digital capabilities positions the company to deliver results for clients and support future growth.

Andrew Festo Promoted to VP of Events at iHeart NY

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 1, 2026 | 12:40pm CT

Andrew Festo

iHeartMedia New York has promoted Andrew Festo to Vice President of Events and Experiences, effective immediately, as the company continues to expand its focus on live and experiential programming.

In his new role, Festo will lead the strategy, development and execution of franchise events across the company's New York brands, as well as select national events. His responsibilities will include overseeing event development, sponsor and partner relations, budgets, production logistics, and coordination with artists and vendors. He will report to Joe De Angelis, Senior Vice President of Promotions for iHeartMedia New York.

De Angelis said Festo has played a key role in bringing the company's brands to life, citing his creativity and drive as factors behind the promotion.

Festo will also work closely with programming, sales and on-air teams to develop integrated campaigns tied to live events, aimed at increasing audience engagement and delivering results for advertisers.

Thea Mitchem, Executive Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia, said Festo's leadership and understanding of the company's brands position him to help grow its events strategy in New York and beyond.

Festo has spent his entire career with iHeartMedia New York, starting as a promotions assistant at 103.5 WKTU-FM. Most recently, he served as Event Director, where he helped execute large-scale events and listener experiences for the cluster.

Triton Digital Powers NBC Sports Podcast Infrastructure

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, April 2, 2026 | 5:00am CT

Triton Digital

Triton Digital has been selected by NBC Sports to provide key technology supporting its podcast and digital audio operations, the companies announced. Under the agreement, NBC Sports will use Triton's suite of tools for podcast hosting, monetization, audience measurement and analytics as it continues to expand its digital audio portfolio.

The partnership is designed to streamline operations while improving measurement transparency and revenue opportunities.

NBC Sports will implement several Triton solutions, including Omny Studio for podcast hosting and distribution, Triton Ad Platform for advertising monetization and campaign management, Podcast Metrics for IAB-certified measurement, and Demos for audience demographic insights.

Triton Digital President and CEO John Rosso said the partnership reflects increasing investment by premium media companies in digital audio and the need for scalable, integrated infrastructure.

NBC Sports Vice President of Content Partnership Development Aileen Sokol added that podcasting remains a growing component of the company's broader digital strategy, and that Triton's tools will help deliver more consistent audience measurement and deeper insights for advertisers.

Triton's technology will support NBC Sports' expanding podcast lineup, enabling broader distribution and enhanced monetization of its sports audio content.

MediaCo Revenue Jumps 18% in Fourth Quarter

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 1, 2026 | 4:06pm CT

MediaCo

MediaCo Holding Inc. reported a 17.9% increase in fourth quarter revenue, driven by continued digital growth and contributions from its Estrella Media acquisition, while posting a wider net loss for the period.

For the quarter ended December 31, 2025, revenue rose to $38.7 million, up from $32.8 million a year earlier. Digital revenue accounted for 53.5% of advertising sales. However, the company reported a net loss of $32.3 million, compared to a $4.2 million loss in the prior-year period. Adjusted EBITDA fell to a loss of $3.7 million from positive $1.7 million a year ago.

For the full year, revenue increased 39.5% to $133.3 million, reflecting the addition of Estrella Media assets and gains in digital revenue. Adjusted EBITDA improved to $7.3 million from a $1.6 million loss in 2024. Net loss widened to $66.2 million, largely due to non-cash items including impairment charges and changes in warrant liabilities.

CEO Albert Rodriguez said the company's first full year following the Estrella acquisition produced "substantial gains" across its operations, citing revenue growth and expansion across television, radio, digital and streaming platforms.

The company also highlighted audience growth across its EstrellaTV network and radio portfolio, along with recent initiatives including the launch of Sigma Audio Networks and new programming on HOT 97.

SiriusXM Sets Masters Week Coverage Plans

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 1, 2026 | 1:06pm CT

SiriusXM

SiriusXM has unveiled its programming lineup for Masters week, set for April 6-12 at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, GA, featuring expanded coverage, new broadcast voices and exclusive content throughout the tournament.

Among the additions, four-time PGA Tour winner Kevin Kisner will join SiriusXM as a lead analyst for the weekend rounds, working alongside play-by-play voice Taylor Zarzour. Kisner, a native of nearby Aiken, SC, has competed in eight Masters tournaments, including a top-25 finish in 2019. He said the opportunity to call the event holds special significance given his ties to the region and experience competing in the tournament.

Brad Faxon and Brendon de Jonge will serve as analysts for the opening rounds on Thursday and Friday. SiriusXM will also feature a sit-down interview during Thursday's coverage with six-time Masters champion Jack Nicklaus and his son, Jack II, marking the 40th anniversary of Nicklaus' historic 1986 victory.

Live tournament coverage will air daily from Thursday, April 9, through Sunday, April 12, beginning at 2 p.m. ET and continuing through the completion of play. On-course reporting will be provided by Emilia Doran, John Maginnes and Brian Katrek, with 1982 Masters champion Craig Stadler joining the broadcast during Saturday's round.

In addition to its main broadcast, SiriusXM will offer early-day "look-in" coverage of featured groups, providing updates from players on the course before the official broadcast window. That coverage will include commentary from Steve Melnyk, Carl Paulson, Drew Stoltz, Gary Williams, George Savaricas and David Marr III.

DBL Down Media Adds The OG Kickoff Podcast

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 1, 2026 | 3:35pm CT

The OG Kickoff

DBL Down Media has announced a partnership with college football podcast "The OG Kickoff," expanding its lineup of sports content focused on the Southeastern Conference.

Effective April 1, "The OG Kickoff," hosted by Connor O'Gara and Will Ogburn, joins the DBL Down Media network. The show, known for its in-depth SEC football coverage and commentary, will now be distributed alongside the company's flagship platform, "The Next Round."

"The Next Round," hosted by Lance Taylor, Ryan Brown and Jim Dunaway, streams daily and reaches an estimated 200,000 to 300,000 people per day across platforms, with a monthly audience exceeding 1 million unique users. The hosts previously spent more than a decade on WJOX's "The Roundtable" before launching DBL Down Media in 2021.

"The OG Kickoff" focuses on year-round SEC football analysis, covering major storylines, players and coaches across the conference. Under the new partnership, the podcast will be available on The Next Round's YouTube channel and major podcast platforms, with new episodes released Tuesdays and Fridays.

Ryan Brown said O'Gara has built a strong reputation among college football audiences and noted his previous guest appearances on "The Next Round" have resonated with listeners.

O'Gara and Ogburn said joining DBL Down Media provides an opportunity to expand their reach and align with a platform focused on college football coverage.

Judge Blocks Trump Order to Defund NPR, PBS

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, March 31, 2026 | 4:06pm CT

US courthouse and news coverage

A federal judge has ruled that former President Donald Trump's executive order to cut off federal funding to public broadcasters NPR and PBS violates the First Amendment, declaring the action unconstitutional and unenforceable.

U.S. District Judge Randolph D. Moss in Washington, DC, found the order unlawfully targeted the broadcasters based on their perceived viewpoints. In his decision, Moss wrote that the government cannot use its authority "to punish or suppress disfavored expression," concluding that the executive order crossed that constitutional line.

The order, signed in May 2025, directed the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) to halt funding to NPR and PBS, citing concerns over alleged bias in their news coverage. Both organizations denied those claims and challenged the directive in court.

Moss said the order improperly singled out the two media organizations and barred them from federal funding programs solely due to their speech. He noted that such funding supports a wide range of services beyond news programming, including emergency broadcast systems, educational content, and journalist safety.

The ruling permanently blocks enforcement of the order, though it could still be appealed.

The decision comes after Congress previously moved to rescind approximately $1.1 billion in funding for public media, and after the CPB announced plans to shut down following the loss of federal support. While the court's ruling does not automatically restore funding, it affirms that future congressional appropriations for public media cannot be restricted by executive action based on content.

NPR called the decision "a decisive affirmation of the rights of a free and independent press," while PBS described it as a clear rejection of unconstitutional viewpoint discrimination. Their attorney, Theodore Boutrous, said the ruling represents "a victory for the First Amendment and for freedom of the press."

The White House criticized the decision, calling it an overreach by the judiciary and signaling plans to continue fighting the issue.

Woody to Receive Kidd Kraddick Award at MSBC

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 1, 2026 | 4:00am CT

Woody

Talentmasters has named Woody, host of iHeartMedia's nationally syndicated "The Woody Show," as the 2026 recipient of the Kidd Kraddick Award. The honor will be presented at the 38th Annual Morning Show Boot Camp, set for August 5-7 at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown.

The award, named after the late Kidd Kraddick, recognizes radio personalities for their success, authenticity, community service and ability to inspire others in the industry.

Last year's honorees, Johnjay Van Es and Rich Berra of "The Johnjay & Rich Show," selected Woody for this year's recognition. They cited his ability to connect with audiences while building a widely followed show with a loyal fan base.

"The Woody Show," distributed by Premiere Networks and originating from iHeartMedia's KYSR (ALT 98.7) Los Angeles, is one of the top syndicated alternative radio programs in the U.S.

Woody said the recognition is especially meaningful given the legacy of Kidd Kraddick and his influence on the radio industry, adding that radio remains his first love.

Past recipients of the award include Bert Weiss, "The Kidd Kraddick Show," "The Roula & Ryan Show with Eric," "The Ace & TJ Show," Paul Castronovo, BJ Shea, "Brother Wease," Mojo of "Mojo in the Morning," and Dave Ryan.

Connoisseur Media to Acquire Lincoln Radio Cluster

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, March 31, 2026 | 11:04am CT

Connoisseur Media

Connoisseur Media has entered into an agreement to acquire a group of stations in Lincoln, NE from NRG Media, expanding its presence in the Midwest.

The deal includes KBBK-FM (B107.3), KLIN-AM and translator K257GN (News Talk 1400/99.3), KLNC-FM (105.3 The Bone), K233AN (Red 94.5), all licensed to Lincoln, along with KFGE-FM (Froggy 98) licensed to Milford, NE. The transaction is subject to FCC approval and is expected to close this summer.

The acquisition follows Connoisseur's recent portfolio adjustments after its September purchase of Alpha Media, and reflects the company's strategy of strengthening its position in selected markets.

Connoisseur Media CEO Jeff Warshaw said the addition of the Lincoln stations and their staff will enhance the company's ability to serve listeners and advertisers. NRG Media CEO Mary Quass said the Lincoln properties have played an important role in the company's history and expressed confidence in Connoisseur's commitment to local service and programming.

Kalil & Co., Inc. served as exclusive broker for the seller. Connoisseur Media was represented by Wilkinson Barker Knauer, LLP.

iHeartMedia Names Jamie Cutburth EVP of Marketing

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, March 31, 2026 | 11:19am CT

Jamie Cutburth

iHeartMedia has appointed media veteran Jamie Cutburth as Executive Vice President of Marketing. In the newly created role, Cutburth will oversee the development and execution of iHeartMedia's marketing strategy, including positioning, go-to-market planning, sales enablement, cross-platform packaging and large-scale brand storytelling initiatives aimed at driving advertiser demand. He will report to Lisa Coffey.

Coffey said Cutburth brings decades of experience building marketing platforms and partnerships for major media companies, adding that his approach aligns with iHeartMedia's focus on innovation and growth across its multi-platform portfolio.

Cutburth joins iHeartMedia after more than ten years at NBCUniversal, where he most recently served as Executive Vice President of Marketing and Brand Partnerships. In that role, he led B2B marketing and advertiser strategy across brands including NBC, Bravo, E!, Peacock, NBC News and Telemundo, and worked on large-scale partnerships tied to franchises such as "Saturday Night Live" and "The Today Show," along with major live events.

Prior to NBCUniversal, Cutburth held partnership leadership roles at A E Networks, including work with HISTORY and A&E.

Cutburth said his new position will focus on aligning brand, revenue, content and culture to strengthen iHeartMedia's market presence and marketing capabilities.

iHeart Leads Triton February Podcast Ranker

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, March 31, 2026 | 10:57am CT

Triton Digital

Triton Digital has released its February 2026 U.S. Podcast Ranker, covering the reporting period from February 2 through March 1, based on its Podcast Metrics measurement service.

In the Top Sales Network Report, the iHeart Audience Network remained in the top position with 70.8 million average weekly downloads. Audioboom ranked second with 16.6 million, followed by Cumulus Podcast Network in third with 3.6 million average weekly downloads.

The monthly report also noted the addition of In Touch Ministries to the Sales Network ranker.

Among individual podcasts, "Pod Save America" (Audioboom) returned to the rankings and claimed the top spot for average weekly downloads. "Stuff You Should Know" (iHeart Audience Network) placed second, while "The Dan Bongino Show" (Cumulus Podcast Network) ranked third, boosted by Bongino's return as host and a resulting increase in downloads.

Several new podcasts debuted in the February rankings, including "Daily Radio Program with Charles Stanley - In Touch Ministries," "Drop Dead Serious With Ashleigh Banfield" (Audioboom), "High Strange" (iHeart Audience Network), "The Rizzuto Show" (Gamut Podcast Network), and "Smash Boom Best: A funny, smart debate show for kids and family" (Lemonada Media), among others.

NBC Sports Radio Launches on TuneIn

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, March 31, 2026 | 2:43pm CT

TuneIn

Stingray has announced that NBC Sports Radio is now available on TuneIn, expanding access to Sports/Talk programming and live play-by-play coverage across the platform.

As part of the launch, TuneIn will stream NBC Sports audio simulcasts, including daily studio shows from NBC Sports Now such as Pro Football Talk Live, The Dan Patrick Show, and Chris Simms Unbuttoned, along with select live game broadcasts.

Aileen Sokol, Vice President of Content Partnership Development at NBC Sports, said the partnership broadens distribution for the network's programming. She noted that TuneIn's reach and capabilities make it a strong platform for delivering both live events and daily shows to a wider audience.

The move reflects the continued growth of audio streaming as a complement to traditional television and subscription platforms, particularly for live sports content, which remains a key driver of real-time audience engagement.

Kevin Straley, Chief Content Officer at TuneIn, said the addition of NBC Sports Radio enhances the platform's sports offerings, combining established daily programming with live play-by-play coverage.

StreamGuys, Nueva Launch AI Audio Ad Service

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, March 31, 2026 | 4:17pm CT

StreamGuys

StreamGuys has introduced SGcreative, a new audio advertising service developed in partnership with Nueva Network, combining AI-driven technology with multi-platform audio distribution to deliver localized ad experiences at scale.

The new offering integrates real-time data such as weather, traffic and local updates into dynamically generated audio ads. Using AI and dynamic ad insertion, SGcreative creates location-specific sponsored messages tailored to individual listeners, allowing campaigns to maintain both national reach and local relevance.

Nueva Network will deploy the listener-facing product under the brand "Que Onnda Today," a format built around geo-targeted, time-sensitive audio segments designed for Hispanic and multicultural audiences. The network distributes bilingual content across terrestrial radio, streaming, podcasts and social media.

StreamGuys says the platform enables advertisers to deliver customized messaging in real time, while providing publishers access to national ad campaigns they might not otherwise secure. Campaigns will run across the StreamGuys Ad Network in major U.S. markets in both English and Spanish.

The company plans to demonstrate SGcreative at the NAB Show in Las Vegas, scheduled for April 19-22.

Family Life to Acquire WKPL-FM in Pennsylvania

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, March 31, 2026 | 2:40pm CT

Family Life

Family Life has entered into an agreement to purchase Classic Hits WKPL-FM (92.1) in Ellwood City, PA, from Forever Media for $350,000. The 2.5 kW station serves listeners in Lawrence and Beaver counties and reaches into the Pittsburgh market, located about 40 miles from the city.

Family Life is led by President/CEO Rick Snavely, while Forever Media is headed by Lynn Deppen. The transaction was brokered exclusively by Michael J. Bergner of Bergner & Co.

The deal is subject to regulatory approval.

Debbie Kenyon Named Audacy Central Region President

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, March 30, 2026 | 2:11pm CT

Debbie Kenyon

Audacy has promoted veteran executive Debbie Kenyon to Regional President for its Central U.S. markets, expanding her leadership role across several of the company's major stations.

Kenyon, who currently serves as Senior Vice President and Market Manager for Audacy's Detroit operations, will now oversee a portfolio that includes prominent brands in Chicago, Cleveland, Madison, Milwaukee and Minneapolis. Among the stations under her expanded leadership are 104.3 and 670 The Score in Chicago, 98.5 WNCX in Cleveland, 94.9 WOLX in Madison, 99.1 The Mix in Milwaukee and 830 WCCO in Minneapolis.

She brings nearly three decades of experience with the company and its predecessors, including CBS Radio and Entercom, where she advanced through roles in sales and management to senior leadership positions. During her tenure in Detroit, Kenyon has been recognized for her strategic direction and community involvement.

Audacy President and CEO Kelli Turner said Kenyon's promotion reflects her long-standing contributions and leadership within the organization, citing her ability to drive innovation and performance across markets.

In a statement, Kenyon said she looks forward to supporting teams across the Central region and building on the strength of local brands, with a focus on innovation, community impact and results for audiences and advertisers.

Kenyon joins a group of Regional Presidents that includes Jeff Federman, Mark Hannon, Claudia Menegus and Chief Business Officer Chris Oliviero, who collectively oversee key markets for the company.