Top Radio News

Jeff Hurley Named SVP of Programming in Philadelphia

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, April 23, 2026 | 1:06pm CT

Jeff Hurley

iHeartMedia Philadelphia has appointed Jeff Hurley as Senior Vice President of Programming, overseeing a portfolio that includes 105.3 WDAS-FM, WUSL-FM (Power 99), WRFF (ALT 104.5), WIOQ (Q102), WUMR (Rumba 106.1), and Fox Sports The Gambler.

In the new role, Hurley will lead programming operations across the Philadelphia market while continuing his current responsibilities as Executive Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia regions including Upstate New York, the Mid-Atlantic, and New England. He will report to Thea Mitchem, Executive Vice President of Programming.

Mitchem said Hurley brings a strong track record of leadership and strategic programming expertise, citing his ability to strengthen station brands and develop teams as key factors in the appointment.

Hurley called the move a "dream come true," noting his Pennsylvania roots and the significance of the stations within the community. He added that he looks forward to working with Market President Derrick Corbett and the local teams to build on the stations' growth in the years ahead.

The appointment comes as Corbett transitions to Vice President of Programming, where he will focus on the continued development of WDAS-FM and Power 99.

iHeartMedia, CitizenSkull Ink Audio Content Deal

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, April 23, 2026 | 1:11pm CT

iHeartMedia

iHeartMedia has entered into a multi-year first-look development agreement with CitizenSkull to create and produce premium scripted audio content, the companies announced. The partnership establishes an ongoing, multi-project relationship focused on elevated genre storytelling, particularly in sci-fi and horror, with an emphasis on developing franchise-ready intellectual property that can expand across multiple platforms.

The first project under the deal, Prodigal, is a sci-fi thriller created and written by comic book writers Jackson Lanzing and Collin Kelly. The duo is known for work with Marvel Comics and DC Comics, including titles such as Batman Beyond, Captain America, and Kang the Conqueror. The series is scheduled for release this fall.

CitizenSkull's Sean M. Butler said the collaboration is designed to develop high-concept projects that can extend beyond audio into broader entertainment franchises, calling Prodigal a strong example of that strategy.

Will Pearson, President of iHeartPodcasts, said the agreement reflects iHeartMedia's continued investment in high-end scripted audio and partnerships with top creative talent.

The series will be showrun by Kevin Arbouet, whose credits span film, television and audio. Executive producers for CitizenSkull include Butler and Mark Myers, with Paul Yurick co-producing alongside Butler and Boye Akolade serving as co-executive producer.

Butler previously helped develop the sports podcast All The Smoke, later adapted for Showtime, and served as executive producer on The Move: The Untold Story of an American Tragedy in collaboration with MACRO.

iHeart Leads Triton Digital's March Podcast Rankings

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, April 23, 2026 | 1:31pm CT

Triton Digital

Triton Digital has released its U.S. Podcast Ranker for March 2026, showing continued dominance by major audio networks alongside shifts in listener engagement.

For the reporting period of March 2-29, the Top Sales Network Report again placed the iHeart Audience Network at No. 1 with 71.5 million average weekly downloads. Audioboom ranked second with 16.3 million, followed by the Cumulus Podcast Network at No. 3 with 3.6 million.

On the podcast chart, Stuff You Should Know moved into the top spot based on downloads. Pod Save America ranked No. 2, while The Dan Bongino Show placed third.

The March ranker also reflected continued expansion in the podcast ecosystem, with Al Jazeera and KUOW joining as new sales networks.

New podcast debuts during the month included Love Trapped (iHeart Audience Network), Someone Knows Something (CBC/Radio-Canada), Al Jazeera News Updates (Al Jazeera), Focus: Adults in the Room (KUOW), The Next Level (Audioboom), and American Nightmares - Gardens of Evil: Inside The Zion Society Cult (Gamut Podcast Network), among others.

Bubbler Media Group Launches With iHeart Partnership

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, April 23, 2026 | 2:39pm CT

Bubbler

A new marketing venture, Bubbler Media Group, has launched with a focus on driving creativity and conversation in an increasingly AI-driven landscape, according to an announcement.

Founded by industry executives Gayle Troberman and David Alberts, Bubbler is positioned as a "conversation company" aimed at helping brands move beyond traditional marketing approaches. The company plans to engage marketers through podcasts, live experiences, research, and planning tools designed to foster new ideas and audience engagement.

The company's strategy is built around three core areas: podcasts featuring industry voices and original content, solutions that translate ideas into actionable marketing strategies, and experiential events intended to bring together leaders from multiple industries.

As part of its launch, Bubbler has partnered with iHeartMedia to develop and distribute more than 10 original business and marketing podcasts this year. Will Pearson said the initiative reflects continued expansion into business-focused podcasting, creating a platform for deeper conversations among marketing professionals.

Bubbler is also teaming with Summit to produce live experiences, including programming for marketing executives at Summit's flagship Summit at Sea event, along with additional events across the U.S. Chris Stakich said the collaboration aims to bring together leaders across industries to drive innovation through shared ideas.

Founding partners for the new venture include State Farm and Sam's Club, as Bubbler looks to build a community centered on curiosity, collaboration, and conversation-driven growth.

The Financial Exchange Expands to BizTV Lineup

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, April 23, 2026 | 1:27pm CT

The Financial Exchange

The Financial Exchange with Michael Armstrong and Chuck Zodda is expanding its distribution with a new simulcast on BizTV, effective Monday, April 27.

The business radio program, currently heard on 14 stations across New England-including WRKO-and nationally on SiriusXM's Business Radio Channel 132, will now be added to BizTV's weekday lineup. The network is available via streaming platforms such as YouTube, Apple TV, Google Play, Fire TV and Roku, and reaches viewers through over-the-air affiliates across 36 states, along with its app.

Jason Wolfe, Chief Operating Officer of Money Matters Radio, said the move extends the program's reach to a broader national audience, bringing its business and financial coverage to millions of additional viewers.

BizTV Programming Director Marley Shropshire said the show's real-time analysis of market activity and top business stories aligns with the network's programming strategy.

Launched in September 2010 as a one-hour show on WRKO-AM, The Financial Exchange has grown into a leading business news program in Boston. Hosted by Michael Armstrong and Chuck Zodda, the show features interviews with executives, analysts and other business leaders, while covering regional and national financial developments.

Jay Shannon Named CMG San Antonio Ops Manager

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | 2:12pm CT

Jay Shannon

Cox Media Group San Antonio Radio has named Jay Shannon as Operations Manager, effective May 4. In the role, Shannon will oversee programming strategy and day-to-day operations for the cluster's stations, including KISS, KONO, KCYY, KTKX, KSMG and KKYX.

Shannon joins CMG from iHeartMedia, where he held senior programming leadership roles across several Texas markets, including Dallas, Austin and San Antonio. His more than 30-year career spans multiple formats, including CHR, Rhythmic CHR, Hot AC, Alternative, Urban and AC, with experience in programming, branding, marketing and talent development.

Mark Shecterle, Vice President and Market Manager of CMG San Antonio, said Shannon brings extensive industry experience and leadership to the role and will work alongside the existing team to support the cluster's stations.

Shannon said he is looking forward to joining the San Antonio group, describing the opportunity to work with established stations and formats as significant.

Study: AM/FM Dominates Honda Drivers' Audio Time

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | 11:21am CT

Cumulus Media | Westwood One

A new blog post from the Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group highlights how artificial intelligence can assist local advertisers in media planning, while also pointing to new data showing the continued dominance of AM/FM radio among auto buyers.

The report, citing findings from Edison Research's "Share of Ear" study, examines audio consumption habits among Honda drivers and other vehicle owners. The quarterly study, based on surveys of 4,000 Americans annually, tracks daily audio usage across platforms and locations.

According to the Q1 2026 data, Honda drivers devote 83% of their in-car ad-supported audio time to AM/FM radio, underscoring radio's continued strength during commutes and errands. The study notes that in-car listening remains largely insulated from digital media competition, as drivers are less likely to engage with social media or video platforms while on the road.

Across all environments -- including home, work and in-car -- AM/FM radio also leads, accounting for 62% of Honda drivers' total ad-supported audio time. Podcasts rank second with a 23% share, while ad-supported streaming platforms such as Pandora, Spotify, YouTube Music and Amazon Music each capture single-digit shares.

The findings also highlight radio's reach among competitive auto brand drivers. Among all drivers, AM/FM radio commands an 83% share of in-car ad-supported audio and a 64% share across all listening locations, making it a key channel for reaching both loyal Honda owners and potential buyers from competing brands.

The analysis points to strong brand loyalty for Honda as well, citing data from J.D. Power showing loyalty rates of 55% among mass market vehicles and 62% among SUVs.

The blog emphasizes that while AI tools are becoming increasingly important for advertisers, understanding real-world media consumption -- particularly radio's reach in the car -- remains essential for effective campaign planning.

Read the entire blog post here.

FCB Faith Expands to WNWV-HD in Cleveland

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | 3:06pm CT

FCB Faith

First Class Broadcasting Corporation has expanded its FCB Faith brand to broadcast radio, launching the Christian Pop format on 107.3 WNWV-HD2 in Cleveland. The move marks FCB Faith's transition from a digital-only platform to over-the-air availability across Northeast Ohio. The brand is already distributed via iHeartRadio, Audacy and its own FCB Faith app.

With the addition of WNWV-HD2, the format now reaches listeners throughout both the Cleveland and Akron markets. FCB Faith features a blend of Contemporary Christian music, gospel pop and Christian R&B under its "Christian Pop" positioning.

Founder and CEO Darvio Morrow said the expansion allows the company to reach audiences on traditional radio while continuing to build on its digital growth.

The HD Radio launch is part of a broader strategy for the company's FCB Faith Media division, which aims to integrate radio, television, streaming, live events and original content.

In addition to music programming, FCB Faith plans to serve as a platform for original and syndicated content as it looks to expand regionally and pursue wider distribution.

SiriusXM, YouTube Strike Audio Ad Partnership

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | 4:03pm CT

SiriusXM

SiriusXM has announced a new audio advertising partnership with Google that links YouTube's audio inventory with one of North America's largest audio ad platforms.

Under the agreement, SiriusXM Media will serve as the exclusive U.S. advertising representative for YouTube's audio ad inventory. The deal gives advertisers access to guaranteed audio ad impressions at scale for the first time, along with targeting and measurement capabilities aligned with YouTube's broader advertising ecosystem.

SiriusXM Chief Advertising Revenue Officer Scott Walker said the partnership combines the company's audio expertise with YouTube's audience reach, creating new opportunities for brands and creators. YouTube's Senior Director of Product for Ads, Romana Pawar, added that the collaboration simplifies how advertisers connect with audiences consuming audio-first content on the platform.

YouTube has increasingly become a destination for podcasts, music, and talk content, with listeners engaging across devices including smartphones and smart speakers. SiriusXM Media, citing research conducted with Edison Research, said more than 212 million U.S. users engage monthly with audio-first content or listening environments on YouTube.

Beginning this fall, advertisers will be able to purchase guaranteed audio ad placements across YouTube through SiriusXM Media. The offering will integrate with the company's broader portfolio, allowing brands to manage campaigns across multiple audio platforms in a single buying environment powered by AdsWizz Inc.

MediaCo Names Roberto Castro SVP, Controller

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | 3:55pm CT

MediaCo

MediaCo has appointed Roberto Castro as Senior Vice President and Corporate Controller, adding a veteran finance executive as the company continues to expand its multimedia operations.

Castro brings three decades of experience across the media and entertainment industry. He joins MediaCo after nearly 24 years with Spanish Broadcasting System, where he most recently served as Vice President of Finance, a role he held since 2015. During his tenure, he worked across multiple senior finance positions.

Earlier in his career, Castro spent more than six years with DIRECTV Latin America, serving as Accounting & Consolidation Manager and Senior Auditor. He began his career as an auditor at Coopers & Lybrand. Castro holds a Master of Professional Accounting from the University of Miami Herbert Business School and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Loyola University New Orleans.

MediaCo CEO and President Albert Rodriguez said the company continues to build out its leadership team as it executes its growth strategy. Chief Financial Officer Debra DeFelice added that Castro's experience will support the company's focus on financial reporting, internal controls, and disciplined financial management.

In a statement, Castro said he looks forward to joining MediaCo during a period of growth, citing the company's portfolio of content and distribution assets and its reach with multicultural audiences.

Scripted ''American Afterlife'' Podcast Debuts

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | 11:08am CT

American Afterlife

Benztown + McVay Podcast Networks has launched "American Afterlife," a cinematic podcast adaptation of the bestselling novel by Pedro Hoffmeister, produced in partnership with William Stuart and Aurora Productions.

The scripted series is set after a catastrophic earthquake in the Pacific Northwest and follows a young woman navigating a fractured world. The story blends survival themes with an emotional journey centered on resilience and rebuilding.

Actress Scarlett Estevez, known for roles in "Lucifer" and Disney Channel productions, voices the lead character, Cielo. The six-episode series is designed as a premium audio experience, combining cinematic sound design with character-driven storytelling.

Stuart said the project aims to create an immersive and transportive listening experience, adding that the story is already drawing interest beyond the podcast space. Dave "Chachi" Denes, Co-Founder and President of Benztown + McVay Podcast Networks, described the adaptation as a passion project and said early audience response has been strong.

The podcast is available on major platforms including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Radio Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Nominees

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | 3:00am CT

Radio Hall of Fame

The Museum of Broadcast Communications has announced the 24 nominees for the 2026 Radio Hall of Fame class.

Nominees were selected by the Radio Hall of Fame Nominating Committee, with input from both industry professionals and listeners. Voting will begin April 24 and run through May 8, with nearly 1,000 industry members receiving ballots to vote for up to six candidates. The confidential voting process will be conducted by Votem.com and overseen by Miller Kaplan's Andrew Rosen.

The top six vote-getters will earn induction, with additional honorees selected by the nominating committee. The 2026 inductees will be announced May 20 and formally honored during the induction ceremony October 8 at the Fairmont Hotel in Chicago.

Dennis Green, Co-Chairman of the Radio Hall of Fame, called the nominees an "outstanding group of broadcasters" representing the 38th class of inductees. Co-Chairman Kraig T. Kitchin added that the nominees reflect the breadth of talent across the radio industry.

The 2026 Radio Hall of Fame nominees (alphabetical by first name) are:

• Andie Summers
• Big D & Bubba
• Bob Stroud
• Boomer Esiason
• Charlie Van Dyke
• Enrique Santos
• Fred Winston
• Funkmaster Flex
• Helen Little
• Joey Reynolds
• John & Ken
• Johnny Magic
• Kevin Matthews
• Kid Leo
• Larry Elder
• Lee Arnold
• Monica May
• Pat Hughes
• Raul Brindis
• Rickey Smiley
• Ryan Cameron
• Shotgun Tom Kelly
• The Electrifying Mojo
• Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!

The Radio Hall of Fame was founded by the Emerson Radio Corporation in 1988, with operations assumed by the Museum of Broadcast Communications in 1991.

Cumulus Names Bill Smith VP/Market Mgr in Oxnard

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, April 21, 2026 | 11:13am CT

Bill Smith

Cumulus Media has appointed William E. "Bill" Smith as Vice President and Market Manager for its Oxnard-Ventura, CA, operations. Smith joins Cumulus from American General Media, where he served as General Manager of its Bakersfield stations. His previous experience includes roles as Local Sales Manager for Hearst Television in Sacramento and Director of Sales for News-Press & Gazette Company in Idaho Falls.

In his new position, Smith will oversee Cumulus' Oxnard-Ventura cluster, which includes The New 95.1 KBBY-FM, 100.7 KHAY-FM, KRUZ 103.3, and Groovy 106.3 KVYB-FM, along with the company's digital marketing services in the market.

Bob Walker, President of Operations for Cumulus Media, said Smith brings a strong track record of building and leading sales organizations and fostering collaboration with programming teams to drive results for local businesses.

Smith said he looks forward to working with the Oxnard-Ventura team and focusing on strengthening partnerships with clients and the community while building on the cluster's existing foundation.

Gator Harrison Named K-LOVE Chief Media Officer

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, April 21, 2026 | 2:08pm CT

Gator Harrison

K-LOVE has named Gator Harrison as Chief Media Officer, overseeing the K-LOVE and Air1 radio networks, as well as live events and partnerships. Harrison joins the organization after a nearly 40-year career in radio, most recently serving as Senior Vice President of Programming at iHeartMedia. His background also includes roles as a Program Director, Operations Director and air personality.

In addition to his broadcasting career, Harrison founded the Believers ministry in 2015, focused on serving professionals in the music industry. His work has earned recognition from organizations including the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association.

K-LOVE CEO Tom Stultz said Harrison's experience and industry relationships will support the organization's continued growth and mission. Harrison said he is honored to join K-LOVE and sees the role as a continuation of both his professional and ministry efforts.

Harrison will officially assume the role on May 11.

Mike McVay Honored with MIW Impact Award

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, April 22, 2026 | 0:01am CT

Mike McVay

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW) has named Mike McVay, President of McVay Media, as the recipient of the third annual Erica Farber Impact Award.

The award recognizes individuals who contribute time, expertise and resources to drive meaningful change and support industry advancement. McVay was presented with the honor by Erica Farber on April 20 during the MIW Lipstick & Lobster Dinner at Maggiano's.

MIW Board President Sheila Kirby said McVay has been a consistent advocate for both the radio industry and the advancement of women within it. She noted his willingness to share his experience and influence has made a lasting impact on MIW and the broader community.

McVay leads McVay Media, a consulting firm focused on content creation, programming, podcast development, digital strategy and talent coaching. His career spans more than four decades and includes leadership roles such as Executive Vice President of Content and Programming for Cumulus Media and Westwood One, where he oversaw programming for more than 500 stations along with podcasting and digital initiatives.

Throughout his career, McVay has worked with and coached a range of media personalities, including Stephen A. Smith, Soledad O'Brien, Reba McEntire, John Tesh, Delilah and Elaina Smith. He has also been a longtime mentor to Elaina Smith, contributing to her development as a Country radio host and the voice of "Backstage Country."

McVay was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2025 and has received multiple industry honors, including the NAB National Radio Award and the Giants of Broadcasting Award.

In a statement, McVay said supporting organizations like MIW is important because they help create opportunities for the next generation of industry leaders. He added that he was honored to receive the recognition.

McVay is the third recipient of the Erica Farber Impact Award, following Dan Spears in 2025 and Farber herself, who received the inaugural award in 2024 at NAB.

S&P: Podcast Listening Jumps as Video Drives Growth

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, April 21, 2026 | 4:50pm CT

S&P Global Market Intelligence

Podcast consumption in the U.S. continues to expand, with nearly 60% of online adults now reporting they listen to podcasts, according to a new analysis from S&P Global Market Intelligence. The report shows a 10-percentage-point increase in early 2026, driven in part by the growing influence of video podcast platforms.

The analysis highlights a widening generational divide in podcast usage. While adults age 55 and older account for 44% of the survey population, they represent just 17% of listeners. By contrast, the 25-34 demographic makes up the largest share of podcast consumers, while those 65 and older show the lowest engagement at 7%.

Gender also plays a significant role in content preferences. Sports podcasts skew heavily male, with men making up 75% of listeners, while 63% of true crime podcast listeners are female. News and politics ranks as the most popular category overall, followed by comedy, sports and true crime. Health and wellness content attracts a majority female audience, while business and entrepreneurship programming leans male.

Video is emerging as a key driver of consumption habits. Among podcast listeners, 62% report watching video podcasts on YouTube, with additional viewing on Netflix (34%), Spotify (23%) and Apple platforms (11%).

Spotify leads overall platform usage at 45% of podcast listeners in 2026, up from 40% a year earlier, followed by YouTube Music at 39% and Amazon Prime Music at 30%. Apple Podcasts held steady at 23% year over year.

Engagement levels remain high, with 67% of listeners tuning in at least weekly and 69% of listening taking place at home, underscoring the medium's continued integration into daily routines.

Bleav Adds Alvarez, Waller to Ad Leadership

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, April 21, 2026 | 2:57pm CT

Maryann Alvarez and Gretchen Waller

Bleav has expanded its advertising leadership team with the hiring of Maryann Alvarez (far left) and Gretchen Waller as Directors of Partnerships. Alvarez and Waller will be responsible for developing partnerships with brands and agencies, while driving sponsorship, advertising and integrated marketing opportunities across the company's portfolio of more than 500 shows distributed via podcast platforms, YouTube and social media.

Alvarez joins Bleav with experience spanning audio, media partnerships and brand strategy, having held roles at The New York Times, PRX, Warner Bros. Discovery and New York Public Radio. Waller most recently worked at REALM and True Native Media, focusing on podcast and digital campaign development and revenue growth through sponsorships and performance-driven partnerships.

Both will report to Jonathan Dianora, Head of Advertising and Revenue Partnerships, who joined the company earlier this year to build out its internal sales organization.

Dianora said the additions come at a key time as Bleav looks to expand its presence in the sports and lifestyle space and deepen relationships with brands and agencies. The company has seen continued audience growth as consumers increasingly turn to creator-driven and team-focused content across audio and digital platforms.