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Top Radio News
94.9 The Bull Names Ashley Layfield as Program Director
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 11:35am CT |
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iHeartMedia Atlanta has announced two leadership additions at Country WUBL (94.9 The Bull), appointing Ashley Layfield as Program Director and Corey Calhoun as afternoon host.
"These are two of the most exciting additions we've made to the Bull in recent years," said Jill Strada, Executive Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia. "Corey's experience across multiple markets, combined with his passion for Country music and audience engagement, makes him a perfect fit for afternoons on 94.9 The Bull, while Ashley is one of the most respected programming leaders in our industry."
Layfield joins the Atlanta cluster from iHeartMedia Tampa, where she currently serves as Director of Programming and Brand Strategy for US103.5. She brings nearly 20 years of radio experience, including a successful tenure at K92.3 Orlando, which earned the Academy of Country Music's Large Market Station of the Year honor during her time there. Layfield has also been active with industry organizations, including the Alliance for Women in Media.
"Atlanta is one of the most dynamic and influential country radio markets in the nation, and I'm honored to join the incredible team at 94.9 The Bull," Layfield said. "The station has a strong legacy with deep community roots, and I'm excited to build on that foundation."
Calhoun arrives from iHeartMedia Washington, DC, where he serves as co-host of mornings on WMZQ. His radio career includes stops in Atlanta, Louisville, Lexington, Brunswick and Washington, along with roles as Assistant Program Director and afternoon host at WAMZ Louisville and Music Director and evening host at WMZQ.
A graduate of Kennesaw State University, Calhoun began his broadcasting career as an intern in Atlanta radio.
"I started my radio career in Atlanta, so the opportunity to return with 94.9 The Bull truly feels like a full-circle moment," Calhoun said. "Nothing compares to coming home, and it makes it even more special that I'm joining this incredible team in what is a dream job for me."
RAB Highlights Growing Power of In-Car Media
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 10:51am CT |
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The Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB) is spotlighting the continued strength of AM/FM radio in the automotive environment, arguing that advances in connected vehicle technology are making in-car media more engaging, measurable, and valuable for marketers than ever before.
In a new thought leadership article published by the Association of National Advertisers (ANA), RAB Senior Vice President of Business Development Tammy Greenberg describes the automobile as "media's last high-attention environment at scale," where consumers remain highly engaged and less distracted than in many other media settings.
According to the article, AM/FM radio continues to dominate ad-supported in-car audio listening. Citing Edison Research's Share of Ear study, RAB notes that broadcast radio accounts for 84% of ad-supported listening time in vehicles. The organization also points to Jacobs Media's Techsurvey 2026, which found consumers continue to value radio for its convenience, local content, and accessibility without requiring subscriptions or internet connections.
The report highlights the growing role of connected dashboards and in-dash visual displays, which can complement audio advertising with synchronized visual messaging. RAB says research shows 83% of drivers actively engage with dashboard displays while listening, creating opportunities for advertisers to reinforce brand messages through both audio and visual channels.
Advances in connected vehicle technology are also providing marketers with new audience insights. Data from Xperi's DTS AutoStage platform, which analyzes listening behavior from 6.5 million vehicles nationwide, found drivers generated nearly 42 million hours of HD Radio listening in a single month, averaging 11.2 listening hours per vehicle. The platform also offers traffic and proximity data that can help advertisers better understand consumer movement patterns and optimize campaign targeting.
The article cites several case studies demonstrating the effectiveness of combining radio advertising with in-dash visuals. One campaign for a consumer packaged goods brand reportedly generated significant gains in brand familiarity, usage, and purchase intent, while another campaign promoting a streaming television series delivered substantial increases in show awareness and viewing intent among listeners exposed to dashboard messaging.
Greenberg concludes that while media consumption continues to fragment across platforms, the vehicle remains a rare environment that combines scale, attention, routine, and trust. She argues that new measurement tools and connected dashboard capabilities are helping transform traditional in-car listening into a more accountable and impactful marketing channel.
Read the full ANA article here.
Complex Named Brand Manager of Live 101.5 in Phoenix
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 2:27pm CT |
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Audacy has promoted Ben 'Complex' Romero to Brand Manager of KALV-FM (Live 101.5) in Phoenix. In his new role, Romero will oversee the station's content strategy, talent, operations and branding. He will continue to serve as Brand Manager for KUDL-FM (106.5 The End) and 102.5 KSFM in Sacramento.
"We are excited to elevate Complex to Brand Manager of Live 101.5," said Molly Cruz. "Complex knows Phoenix inside and out, both behind the scenes and live on the air. That unique perspective, combined with his passion for the listener experience, is exactly what will propel Live to new levels."
Romero called the appointment a return to a market that has played a significant role in his career. "Phoenix has always held a special place in my career, so the opportunity to lead KALV feels like a full-circle moment," he said. "My experiences in Phoenix, Riverside, Sacramento and San Francisco have shaped my approach to programming, talent development and brand building. I'm excited to return, work with an incredible team, and help write the next chapter for the station."
A radio veteran with more than 20 years of experience, Romero began his career in 2001 and has held programming positions in Los Angeles, Phoenix, Boise and Riverside-San Bernardino. Before joining Audacy, he spent 11 years as Program Director and Music Director for KKFR (Power 98.3/96.1) in Phoenix.
His career also includes programming leadership roles at Wild 101 and BOB FM 96.1 in Boise, Wild 96.1 in San Bernardino, and Hot 97.5 in Phoenix.
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Salem Elevates Young, Reisman to New Leadership Roles
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 3:05pm CT |
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Salem Media has announced expanded leadership responsibilities for two longtime executives, promoting Linnae Young (pictured) and Jeff Reisman to corporate leadership positions, effective October 1. Young will assume the role of President of Broadcast Media while continuing to serve as Chief Revenue Officer. In her expanded position, she will oversee Salem's broadcast operations in addition to leading the company's revenue strategy.
A Salem veteran of more than 30 years, Young has held leadership roles in sales, revenue development and broadcast operations. She currently serves on the board of the Radio Advertising Bureau and was recently appointed to the board of Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW).
"Linnae has earned the respect of people across this company and throughout our industry," said David Santrella, Chief Executive Officer of Salem Media Group. "She knows our business inside and out and has been a driving force behind Salem's success for more than three decades."
Young said she looks forward to helping guide the company's continued growth. "Salem is growing in exciting ways. From Salem Creators Agency to Salem Political Solutions, we're finding new ways to serve audiences and partners," she said.
Also effective October 1, Reisman will be promoted to Executive Vice President of Operations, overseeing operational leadership across Salem's local broadcast markets nationwide.
Reisman has spent 22 years with the company, serving in a variety of leadership positions including General Sales Manager, Director of Sales, General Manager of Salem's Chicago market, Regional Vice President and Senior Vice President.
"Jeff is a trusted leader in our company and has spent more than two decades serving Salem with excellence," Santrella said. "He understands what makes our local markets successful and has spent years building strong teams and helping people grow."
In his new role, Reisman will focus on supporting Salem's local markets and operational performance across the company's broadcast portfolio.
Salem also announced expanded responsibilities for Senior Vice President Mark Durkin, Regional Vice President Jeff Mitchell and Regional Vice President Chad Gammage as part of the leadership transition.
The appointments follow the previously announced retirement plans of Allen Power and continue the company's long-standing practice of promoting leadership talent from within its ranks.
John Beck Joins Media Services Group as Managing Dir.
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 11:05am CT |
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Media Services Group has expanded its brokerage leadership team with the appointment of veteran broadcaster John Beck as Managing Director. Beck brings more than 40 years of experience spanning radio management, ownership, sales, programming, consulting, government relations, industry leadership and brokerage. He joins Media Services Group after operating his own consulting firm, John Beck Media Strategies.
"John is one of the most respected leaders in St. Louis," said George Reed. "His track record of success, reputation for building strong teams, and deep roots in local radio are just a few of the reasons we are excited to welcome him to Media Services Group."
Most recently, Beck served four years as Area President for iHeartMedia in St. Louis and Indianapolis. Prior to that role, he spent 36 years with Emmis Communications, rising to Senior Vice President and overseeing multiple stations, including heritage St. Louis Rock outlet KSHE-95. Earlier in his career, Beck managed radio stations in Kansas City and worked with CBS in Detroit at its company-owned radio representation firm. He began his broadcasting career at WFFM in Pittsburgh.
A longtime industry leader, Beck served as president of the Missouri Broadcasters Association from 1999 to 2000 and currently chairs its Legislative Affairs Committee. He also served six years on the board of the National Association of Broadcasters and was a member of the NAB Executive Committee, serving as Radio Board First Vice Chair from 2012 to 2014. Beck currently serves as a trustee of NABPAC.
"I'm thrilled to be joining Media Services Group," Beck said. "I look forward to working with the leadership team, several of whom I have known for many years. It is an outstanding organization, and I'm excited to help broadcasters identify new opportunities and achieve their goals."
Throughout his career, Beck has received numerous industry honors, including the Missouri Broadcasters Association's Distinguished Broadcaster Award in 2002 and the Radio Wayne Award Market Manager of the Year from the Radio Advertising Bureau.
Beck is also scheduled to be inducted into the Missouri Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame during ceremonies at the Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri.
Urban One Extends CFO Peter Thompson Through 2029
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 4:55pm CT |
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Urban One has entered into a new employment agreement with Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Peter D. Thompson, extending his tenure with the company through January 6, 2029. The agreement was disclosed in a Form 8-K filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission following the company's June 11 annual shareholders meeting.
Under the new contract, Thompson will continue serving as CFO of Urban One and as Vice President of the company's wholly owned subsidiaries. He will receive an annual base salary of $750,000 and remain eligible for annual performance bonuses of up to $300,000, with the potential to earn as much as 132% of that target based on company and individual performance metrics.
The agreement also includes a one-time signing bonus of $333,333, subject to a prorated clawback if Thompson leaves the company before the contract expires. In addition, he is eligible for significant equity compensation, including grants of Urban One Class D common stock and performance-based stock awards over the four-year term.
A key provision of the agreement provides Thompson the opportunity to earn an $850,000 completion bonus if the material weaknesses identified in Urban One's 2025 Form 10-K are remediated by the end of the contract term or by the filing of the company's 2028 Form 10-K.
Thompson's employment agreement is effective retroactively to January 7, 2025, and runs through January 6, 2029, unless terminated earlier under the terms of the contract. The filing notes that he will continue to be based at Urban One's corporate headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Beasley Detroit Launches $100K Small Business Grants
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 10:56am CT |
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Beasley Media Group Detroit has partnered with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to launch the 2026 Beasley Detroit Small Business Grant Program, a $100,000 initiative aimed at helping local businesses expand through advertising and marketing support.
The program will award ten Metro Detroit small businesses a $10,000 professional advertising campaign across Beasley Media Group Detroit's radio stations and digital platforms. Eligible applicants include small and medium-sized businesses located throughout Metro Detroit and Southeast Michigan.
Applications will be accepted from July 6 through August 31, with winners to be announced in September. The advertising campaigns will run during the fall of 2026 on Beasley Detroit's stations, including 101.1 WRIF, 94.7 WCSX, 105.1 The Bounce, 105.9 KISS FM, and the Praise Network, as well as the company's digital channels.
The initiative is designed to support local entrepreneurs by providing access to marketing resources that can help increase brand awareness, attract customers, and accelerate growth. Winners will be selected based on their growth potential and impact on the community.
"Metro Detroit was built by hard-working people who bet on themselves - the small business owners who keep our neighborhoods running," said Matt Scarano, Vice President and Market Manager of Beasley Media Group Detroit. "By partnering with the MEDC, we're giving 10 deserving entrepreneurs the megaphone they need to tell their stories, reach new audiences, and grow their businesses."
Beasley and the MEDC said the program reflects their shared commitment to supporting the small businesses that play a vital role in Southeast Michigan's economy by creating jobs, driving innovation, and strengthening local communities.
Businesses interested in applying can submit applications beginning July 6 through August 31. Winners will receive customized advertising campaigns valued at $10,000 each.
AMP Media Acquires WOOF-AM & FM in Dothan AL
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 11:26am CT |
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AMP Media, LLC has completed its acquisition of the assets of WOOF, Inc., including the heritage Dothan, AL radio combo WOOF-AM and WOOF-FM, in a transaction valued at $1.3 million.
The buyer, AMP Media, is led by veteran local media personality Amie Pollard, who has built a lengthy career in both radio and television. The acquisition marks the company's entry into broadcast ownership, as AMP Media currently holds no other broadcasting interests.
"To step into ownership of WOOF-AM and FM is a profound honor and a true full-circle moment for me," Pollard told WTVY-TV. "This station is woven into the fabric of the Wiregrass area. I am dedicated to preserving the legendary, hometown heritage that Agnes Simpson and her daughter Leigh so beautifully nurtured, while continuing to serve our local listeners and business partners with the warm, family-first radio they have loved for generations."
Seller Michael Holderfield, principal of WOOF, Inc., will continue to own and operate one remaining broadcast property in Elba, Alabama following the sale.
The transaction was brokered by Eddie Esserman of Media Services Group, who served as the exclusive representative for the seller.
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Seaboard Networks Adds ''The After-Set Show''
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 3:16pm CT |
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Seaboard Networks has signed Atlanta-based Southern hip-hop program "The After-Set Show" for syndication and national distribution, expanding the show's reach to additional radio stations and digital affiliates.
Hosted by DJ Powerlord and co-hosted by Jazzy P., Big Alley Al, Big Vic XL and J-Prez, the group is collectively known as "The Disciples of Boom." The team launched the show in 2018 and has since built a growing audience through radio and internet affiliates across the United States and internationally.
Current affiliates include stations such as WMNZ in Montezuma, GA; KKAN in Nanakuli, HI; and WFLM in West Palm Beach.
"It's a gift and super exciting to be able to work with an already established program like 'The After-Set Show,'" said Bob Stei. "The show is a prime example of the professional and completely original broadcasting we seek for our formats and for stations looking for something special for their schedules."
DJ Powerlord said the partnership will help accelerate the show's growth and expand its footprint into new markets. "We're excited about being a part of Seaboard Networks to help continue The After-Set's growing audience and expansion into new and bigger markets," he said.
To become an affiliate of "The After-Set Show" visit seaboardnetworks.com.
CT40 Unveils Fourth of July ''Let Freedom Sing'' Special
| RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 3:37pm CT |
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Country Top 40 with Fitz (CT40), in partnership with Skyview Networks, is celebrating Independence Day with a special four-hour holiday program, "Let Freedom Sing," featuring country music stars, patriotic favorites and stories honoring America's 250th anniversary. The annual Fourth of July weekend special will air across CT40's growing affiliate network, which recently added KDRK-FM in Spokane, WA.
Hosted by Fitz, the special will blend the program's signature countdown format with country music's biggest hits and artist reflections on Fourth of July celebrations. This year's edition takes on added significance as the nation marks its 250th birthday.
Listeners can expect country stars' favorite Independence Day memories, patriotic songs celebrating American heritage, and a special performance of the anthem-like classic "God Bless the USA" featuring Fitz alongside Lee Greenwood.
"America is turning 250, and we are throwing the ultimate birthday party!" Fitz said. "I can't wait to play the hits and celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime milestone with our listeners. This is the soundtrack of summer for your backyard barbecue and Fourth of July fireworks show."
The special is being offered as part of the regular CT40 weekend program and is available on a first-come, first-served basis to additional stations interested in carrying the broadcast. For additional details, visit skyviewnetworks.com.
Jeff McCartney Joins Cumulus Salt Lake City Duo
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 15, 2026 | 2:22pm CT |
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Cumulus Media has named Jeff McCartney as Operations Manager and Program Director for its Salt Lake City outlets KBER-FM (KBER 101) and KENZ-FM (Power 94.9/101.9). He brings more than 30 years of experience in radio programming, brand development, and audience growth to the role. McCartney joins Cumulus after spending more than 25 years with iHeartMedia in Salt Lake City, where he held senior programming and operations leadership posts.
"We're thrilled to welcome Jeff to the team," said Joyce Wirthlin, Vice President and Market Manager for Cumulus Salt Lake City. "He's a proven programmer with a strong track record of building winning brands and developing talent. His passion for the product and his competitive mindset makes him a great fit for KBER and KENZ, and we're excited to have him leading these stations forward."
McCartney said the opportunity marks an exciting new chapter in a market he has called home for nearly three decades. "Utah has been my home for nearly three decades, and I'm excited to join the Cumulus Salt Lake team," he said. "Joyce and I have worked together for more than 20 years, and we share a deep understanding of this market, its listeners, and the relationships that drive meaningful results for both our audiences and our clients. I'm grateful for the opportunity to help lead what's next."
Brian McGhee Named CMG Jacksonville Market Manager
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 15, 2026 | 2:28pm CT |
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Cox Media Group (CMG) has appointed Brian McGhee as Vice President and Market Manager for its Jacksonville radio operations, effective immediately. McGhee succeeds Jimmy Farrell, who recently transitioned to the role of Vice President and Market Manager for CMG Miami Radio.
McGhee joins CMG with more than 15 years of leadership experience across radio, digital media, and sales management. Most recently, he served as Director of Sales for Urban One in Washington, DC, overseeing revenue operations for the company's five-station cluster in the market.
Prior to Urban One, McGhee held the positions of Market President and Chief Revenue Officer for Townsquare Media in Rockford, IL, and General Sales Manager roles with iHeartMedia in both Chicago and St. Louis. Throughout his career, he has been credited with driving revenue growth, expanding key client relationships, developing talent, and implementing training programs that strengthened organizational performance.
"Brian is a strong, people-centered leader with the right mix of sales expertise, operational discipline, and market vision," said Rob Babin, President of CMG Radio. "He knows how to build high-performing teams, develop meaningful client relationships, and create momentum. Just as importantly, he leads with authenticity, accountability, and a real understanding of what local media can mean to audiences, advertisers, and communities."
Babin added that the company is excited to welcome McGhee to both Jacksonville and CMG.
McGhee said he looks forward to building on the market's existing success. "I'm honored to join CMG and to lead the Jacksonville Radio team," he said. "CMG has an outstanding reputation for strong local brands, talented people, and meaningful service to audiences and advertisers. I'm excited to build on that foundation, work alongside this team, and help drive continued growth in Jacksonville."
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Bill Fox Named OM for Cumulus Toledo-Monroe
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 15, 2026 | 5:16pm CT |
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Cumulus Media has appointed veteran radio programmer and air personality Bill Fox as Operations Manager for its Toledo, OH-Monroe, MI cluster. Fox will also serve as PD for Country WKKO-FM (K100) and join Classic Hits station 93.5 WRQN as a morning co-host. Fox arrives at Cumulus Toledo-Monroe with programming and on-air experience spanning multiple markets and formats. Most recently, he was heard on Classic Country WSIG-FM in Harrisonburg, VA.
Prior to that role, Fox served as Program Director for Country WXCL-FM (104.9 The Wolf) and AC sister WSWT-FM (Mix 106.9) in Wausau, WI. He also worked as Brand Manager and afternoon personality for Country outlet WDEZ-FM in the same market.
His broadcasting career includes morning drive posts at stations such as WWZY-FM (107.1 The Boss) in Monmouth-Ocean, NJ, WOKQ in Portsmouth, NH, WYJB-FM (B95.5) in Albany, NY, and WFNK-FM (107.5 Frank FM) in Portland, ME.
Dana DiModica, Vice President and Market Manager for Cumulus Toledo/Monroe, said Fox's experience and creativity make him a strong addition to the cluster.
"We're beyond excited to have Bill Fox join Cumulus Toledo/Monroe," DiModica said. "His passion for building great local radio brands and his unique creative vision make him a perfect fit for our team. Bill will bring fresh energy as Operations Manager for the Toledo cluster, Program Director for WKKO-FM, and as the new voice waking up Toledo and Northwest Ohio on 93.5 WRQN."
Fox said he is eager to join the Toledo market and work with the station teams. "I'm beyond excited to join Cumulus Toledo/Monroe," Fox said. "This is a veteran air staff that knows how to do live, local radio, and I'm thrilled to get to work alongside them. And I can't wait for that 4 a.m. alarm and the chance to wake up The Glass City."
Salem Media's Allen Power to Retire After 50 Years
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 15, 2026 | 2:46pm CT |
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Salem Media has announced that Allen Power, President of Broadcast Media, will retire on September 30, concluding a broadcasting career that spans five decades. Following his retirement, Power will remain with the company in a Senior Advisor role.
The announcement coincides with the 50th anniversary of Power's first day in broadcasting, which began on June 15, 1976. He has spent the past 26 years with Salem, helping guide the company's growth across radio, digital media, and content distribution platforms.
Power joined Salem in 2000 as the company's first General Manager in Atlanta. He later advanced through a series of leadership positions, including Regional Vice President and Senior Vice President, before being named President of Broadcast Media in 2023.
During his tenure, Salem expanded its presence across broadcast, digital, and multimedia platforms while strengthening its position as a leading Christian and conservative media company.
"Allen and I have worked together for nearly 25 years in a variety of roles at Salem," said David Santrella, Chief Executive Officer of Salem Media. "His leadership, his ability to inspire those around him, and his incredible understanding of our business will be missed. Beyond his business accomplishments, he has led with integrity, humility, and a genuine commitment to serving others."
Santrella added that while the company will miss Power's day-to-day leadership, it is grateful he will continue serving Salem as a Senior Advisor.
Reflecting on his retirement, Power noted the significance of reaching the 50-year milestone in broadcasting. "Fifty years ago today, on June 15, 1976, I started my first job in broadcasting," Power said. "I have spent more than half of my career at Salem and it has been such a blessing to devote my efforts to spreading the message of the gospel through broadcasting."
He said his next chapter will focus on faith, family, and charitable organizations following a sabbatical.
Beasley Urges FCC to Scrap Radio Ownership Caps
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 15, 2026 | 3:29pm CT |
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Beasley Media Group is calling on the Federal Communications Commission to eliminate local radio ownership caps, arguing that decades-old regulations are hindering broadcasters' ability to compete in today's media landscape.
In an ex parte filing submitted to the FCC, Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley and Executive Vice President and General Counsel Chris Ornelas detailed meetings held June 10 with FCC Chairman Brendan Carr and members of his staff, as well as Acting Media Bureau Chief Alex Sanjenis, regarding the pending 2022 Quadrennial Review of the Commission's media ownership rules.
According to the filing, Beasley urged the FCC to repeal local radio ownership restrictions that have remained unchanged since 1996. The company argued that the rules were established before the emergence of satellite radio, streaming audio services, podcasts, social media platforms, digital advertising giants, smart devices, and integrated smartphone technology in automobiles.
The company contended that broadcast radio now competes in a vastly different marketplace and that ownership limits imposed solely on radio stations have become a competitive disadvantage rather than a tool for promoting competition, diversity, and localism.
Beasley told FCC officials that broadcasters lacking sufficient scale are at a disadvantage when competing for audiences and advertising dollars against larger digital and audio companies. The filing also pointed to the industry's ongoing shift of advertising revenue from traditional radio to digital platforms and argued that current ownership restrictions make it more difficult for broadcasters to attract the investment needed to support local programming and public service content.
"Continuing to starve the radio industry of the capital and scale it needs to survive will not serve the public interest," the company stated in the filing.
Beasley concluded by urging the FCC to complete the 2022 Quadrennial Review as quickly as possible and eliminate its local radio ownership rules.
The filing follows similar recent meetings between FCC officials and broadcast industry leaders seeking modernization of media ownership regulations amid increasing competition from digital media and technology platforms.
Study: AM/FM Radio Dominates Among GM Drivers
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 15, 2026 | 3:24pm CT |
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A new analysis from Cumulus Media and Westwood One's Audio Active Group finds that AM/FM radio remains the dominant audio platform among General Motors drivers, highlighting its value for automakers and dealers seeking to reach both loyal customers and owners of competing brands.
In this week's blog post, Pierre Bouvard, Chief Insights Officer for Cumulus Media and Westwood One, examined newly released data from Edison Research's first-quarter 2026 "Share of Ear" study, which measures Americans' audio consumption habits across platforms and listening environments.
The report comes as General Motors continues to post industry-leading customer loyalty numbers. According to S&P Global Mobility, approximately 68% of GM owners who purchase or lease another vehicle remain within the Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, or Buick family. The company recently earned S&P Global Mobility's Overall Loyalty to Manufacturer award for the 11th consecutive year.
Given those loyalty levels, Bouvard argues that it is critical for GM national, regional, and dealer advertising campaigns to effectively reach existing GM owners as well as drivers of competing brands.
The study found that GM drivers devote 90% of their in-car ad-supported audio listening time to AM/FM radio, making it by far the dominant audio medium while commuting and running errands. Across all listening locations-including home, work, vehicle, and other settings-AM/FM radio accounted for a 71% share of ad-supported audio consumption among GM drivers.
Podcasts ranked a distant second with a 13% share, followed by ad-supported Pandora at 8%, Spotify at 5%, SiriusXM at 3%, and YouTube Music at 1%.
The analysis also found that AM/FM radio is a powerful medium for reaching drivers of competing automotive brands. Across all vehicle owners, AM/FM radio captured an 83% share of in-car ad-supported audio listening, providing what the report describes as a significant opportunity for conquest marketing aimed at attracting customers from rival manufacturers.
Additional findings from MRI-Simmons Winter 2026 data indicate that heavy AM/FM radio listeners are among the most likely consumers to be in the market for a vehicle purchase. AM/FM radio ranked first among major media platforms in purchase intent for trucks, SUVs, and hybrid or electric vehicles, while also performing strongly among consumers considering used vehicles, sedans, and minivans.
The findings are based on Edison Research's "Share of Ear" study, which surveys approximately 4,000 Americans annually to measure daily audio consumption across broadcast radio, streaming audio, podcasts, satellite radio, and other platforms.
Read the entire blog post here.
Netflix Expands iHeartPodcast Video Deal
| RADIO ONLINE | Monday, June 15, 2026 | 11:20am CT |
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Netflix and iHeartMedia are expanding their video podcast partnership with the addition of several new iHeartPodcasts set to debut as video shows on the streaming platform.
The latest agreement brings a new collection of star-powered podcasts to Netflix, including "Suite 305 with Lele Pons," "The Martha Stewart Podcast," and "Sibling Revelry with Kate Hudson and Oliver Hudson." New episodes, along with select library content from each show, will be available to Netflix members in the coming months.
"Suite 305 with Lele Pons" features the social media personality and entertainer interviewing celebrity guests, with global music star Shakira appearing in the debut episode. "The Martha Stewart Podcast" showcases conversations between the lifestyle icon and a range of notable guests, while "Sibling Revelry" offers candid discussions from siblings Kate and Oliver Hudson alongside other famous brothers and sisters.
The new additions join an existing lineup of iHeartPodcasts already available on Netflix, including "The Breakfast Club," "Bobby Bones Presents: The Bobbycast," "My Favorite Murder," "Dear Chelsea," "Joe and Jada," "This Is Important," and several others spanning comedy, lifestyle, history, culture and sports.
The announcement follows the recent launch of "The Breakfast Club" as a live video program on Netflix. The weekday simulcast gives viewers real-time access to the show's interviews and commentary, while offering Netflix subscribers exclusive bonus content and extended segments during traditional radio commercial breaks.
Under the agreement, iHeartMedia retains all audio distribution rights. The podcasts will continue to be available on iHeartRadio and other major podcast platforms while expanding their reach through Netflix's global streaming audience.
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