Top Radio News

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.

Chris Rice Launches SoundwerkxFX Rock Library

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, April 21, 2026 | 10:34pm CT

SoundwerkxFX

Veteran radio imaging specialist Chris Rice has launched a new boutique sound design and music venture, SoundwerkxFX, aimed at serving underrepresented audio production genres.

The company's first release, Rockwerkx Vol. 1, is a guitar-driven production library designed specifically for rock formats. Rice said the new venture was created to address a gap in the marketplace, where many available production packages are geared toward Top 40 or general-use applications rather than rock-focused content.

"I created SoundwerkxFX to help provide producers of under-served genres with tools that speak specifically to their audience," Rice said, noting that his experience working with rock, classic rock and alternative formats influenced the project's direction.

Rockwerkx Vol. 1 includes more than 170 royalty-free tracks, featuring short effects, longer sound design elements and music beds built around a guitar-heavy sound. The package is designed for use in radio imaging, concert advertising, podcasts, television promos and music documentaries.

Rice said the goal is to deliver production elements that bring a more authentic rock sound to audio content across platforms.

Ruth Presslaff Named MIW 2026 Trailblazer

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, April 21, 2026 | 0:01am CT

Ruth Presslaff

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio has named Ruth Presslaff as the recipient of its 2026 Frances Preston Trailblazer Award, recognizing her leadership and long-standing contributions to advancing women in radio.

The honor, MIW's highest accolade, was presented during the NAB Show 2026 on April 20. Presslaff was recognized in a public interview with Erica Farber at TV and Radio HQ, followed by a formal presentation at the organization's annual Lipstick & Lobster Dinner.

Named after longtime Broadcast Music, Inc. President and CEO Frances Preston, the Trailblazer Award honors women who create opportunities for others and help shape the future of the radio industry.

Presslaff, founder of Presslaff Interactive Revenue, has built a career spanning on-air roles, station management, and executive positions in affiliate relations and network sales across multiple major markets. She is widely recognized for her early adoption of emerging technologies to drive revenue growth, including interactive voice response systems, digital marketing strategies, and first-party data initiatives.

She has launched and sold her company twice and later served in enterprise sales at Second Street Media. In addition to her business accomplishments, Presslaff has played a key role within MIW, including serving as Board President and helping guide the organization through its transition to a 501(c)(3), positioning it for long-term growth.

MIW Board President Sheila Kirby credited Presslaff with helping expand the organization's reach and impact, citing her leadership and commitment to mentoring women across the industry.

In accepting the award, Presslaff pointed to the influence of past MIW leaders, including Denyse Mesnik, Kay Olin, and Heidi Raphael, and acknowledged the support of broadcasters who embraced her vision for integrating technology into media and advertising.

Based in Southern California, Presslaff continues to mentor and advise emerging leaders while remaining active as a speaker at industry events, including those hosted by the National Association of Broadcasters and other media organizations.

She joins a list of past Trailblazer honorees that includes Deborah Parenti, Corinne Baldassano, Laurie Kahn, Michelle Duke, and Christine Travaglini, among others.

Trusty Highlights Broadcasters' Public Interest Role

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, April 20, 2026 | 4:46pm CT

FCC Commissioner Olivia Trusty

At the NAB Show 2026, FCC Commissioner Olivia Trusty outlined her vision for how broadcasters can fulfill the long-standing "public interest" standard, emphasizing localism, accountability and the need for updated policies in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

In remarks titled "Finding the Angel of the Public Interest," Trusty drew on historical context, referencing a 1998 speech by former FCC Chairman Michael Powell, who once described searching for an "angel" to define the public interest. Trusty said that while no such figure emerged, the concept remains central to broadcasting today.

She explained that the public interest standard is rooted in the Communications Act and shaped by FCC rules, covering a wide range of obligations-from technical requirements and business practices to content-related rules such as sponsorship identification, emergency alerts, and restrictions on indecent programming.

Trusty highlighted several longstanding duties, including the "equal opportunities" rule requiring broadcasters to provide comparable access to political candidates, as well as the importance of localism. She noted that stations must serve the needs of their communities and retain the ability to preempt network programming when local or national issues demand it.

She also pointed to the role of broadcasters in delivering critical information, particularly during emergencies, and emphasized their value as a free, universally accessible medium. Local stations, she said, remain essential for news, weather coverage, and community-focused programming that reflects local concerns.

Addressing the modern media environment, Trusty acknowledged growing competition from streaming services, podcasts and digital platforms that are not bound by the same regulatory obligations. She argued that because broadcasters accept public interest responsibilities as part of their licenses, the FCC must ensure policies allow them to remain competitive and financially viable.

Trusty identified three core policy goals guiding FCC decision-making: promoting competition, ensuring diversity of voices, and supporting localism. She suggested that some legacy regulations may need to be revisited or eliminated to better align with today's marketplace.

She also raised concerns about the migration of major sports programming to subscription-based streaming platforms, noting that such shifts could limit public access to widely shared cultural events. Maintaining free, over-the-air availability of key programming, she said, remains in the public interest.

Looking ahead, Trusty stressed the importance of strengthening broadcasters' ability to innovate, including through technologies such as ATSC 3.0, while continuing to uphold transparency and trust. She noted that local broadcasters still rank highly in public trust but face financial pressures and new challenges, including misinformation amplified by digital platforms.

Concluding her remarks, Trusty suggested that broadcasters themselves may ultimately serve as the "angels of the public interest," acting as trusted messengers for their communities-provided the FCC establishes the right policy framework to support them.

She said achieving that balance will require continued collaboration between regulators and the industry to ensure broadcasters can both compete effectively and maintain their commitment to serving the public.

Aaron Miller Returns to CMG Tampa as Director of Sales

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, April 20, 2026 | 1:07pm CT

Aaron Miller

Cox Media Group (CMG) Tampa has named Aaron Miller Director of Sales, marking his return to the organization. Miller rejoins CMG from Audacy and previously worked with CMG Tampa, where the company says he developed strong ties to the local market and client base.

In his new role, Miller will oversee the station group's sales organization, focusing on strategy, team development, and revenue generation across radio, digital, and streaming platforms.

"Aaron's experience, leadership, and passion for our Radio make him a tremendous asset to our Tampa leadership team," said Jason Meder, Vice President and Market Manager of CMG Tampa. "We're excited to welcome him back and look forward to the impact he will have on our sales organization, our clients, and our continued growth in the Tampa market."

Miller's appointment is effective immediately.

Westwood One Blog Outlines AI Best Practices

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, April 20, 2026 | 1:02pm CT

Cumulus Media | Westwood One

A new blog post from Cumulus Media's Westwood One Audio Active Group highlights how local advertisers can more effectively use artificial intelligence tools to guide media planning and buying decisions.

Authored by Cumulus Operations President Bob Walker, the piece emphasizes that AI platforms require a different approach than traditional search engines, urging advertisers to be precise and intentional when crafting queries. The blog notes that clearly stating objectives-such as increasing sales, expanding a customer base, or building awareness-can significantly improve the accuracy and usefulness of AI-generated responses.

The report also stresses the importance of incorporating trusted sources directly into prompts. Referencing organizations like the Radio Advertising Bureau or the Audio Active Group can help narrow responses to more reliable and current data, reducing the need to verify multiple sources after the fact.

Walker points out that while tools like ChatGPT can assist with tasks ranging from answering questions to generating creative ideas, users must carefully review sourcing and publication dates. AI-generated answers may rely on outdated information or, in some cases, produce inaccurate results-often referred to as "hallucinations."

The blog further explains that different AI platforms deliver different types of responses. Research from BrightEdge found that ChatGPT tends to recommend actionable tools, while platforms like Google Gemini often point users toward informational resources and articles.

Finally, the report cautions that AI outputs can vary based on several factors, including whether a user is logged in and using personalized features. As a result, advertisers are encouraged to review responses carefully and validate key data points before incorporating them into media strategies.

Read the full blog post here.