Top Radio News

Victor Giacomelli Returns to Emmis/New York as MP

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 10:05am CT

Victor Giacomelli

Emmis/New York appoints Victor Giacomelli as Market President to lead La Exitosa 98.7 FM (WEPN & WLIB-AM). La Exitosa serves the bilingual Hispanic audience there, and he'll oversee efforts to expand both audience reach and revenue growth. Giacomelli previously held senior leadership roles including Senior Vice President of Revenue at Emmis, Senior Vice President of Operations at MediaCo, and Vice President of Sales at Corus Radio in Canada.

"I'm excited to be back with Emmis and to build La Exitosa 98.7FM," said Giacomelli. "This station resonates with listeners, and there is so much potential and opportunity ahead."

"We're thrilled to welcome Vic back to the Emmis family," said Patrick Walsh, Emmis president and chief operating officer. "La Exitosa 98.7 has taken the New York market by storm with nearly one million listeners that marketers can't find on other Spanish-language stations in the market. We are rapidly advancing in the station ranker and becoming a must-have option for key agencies and advertisers."

Walsh credited the station's momentum to a multi-channel launch and marketing campaign led by Rick Cummings and Mike McVay, along with the addition of popular Spanish-language hosts such as Gloria B, George Mier, and Gino Latino. A team of seasoned account executives has also been assembled to support advertisers.

"With Victor now leading the team, we're committed to moving La Exitosa 98.7 up New York's 25-54 ranker," Walsh added.

FCC to Review Local Radio Ownership in Quadrennial Review

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 2:51pm CT

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

The Federal Communications Commission will take up its long-delayed 2022 Quadrennial Regulatory Review at its September 30 Open Commission Meeting, with a focus on whether to retain, modify, or eliminate key broadcast ownership rules. Among them is the Local Radio Ownership Rule, which restricts the number of AM and FM stations a single entity can own in a given market.

The review, required every four years under the Telecommunications Act of 1996, will consider whether these limits remain "necessary in the public interest as the result of competition." The Commission is seeking comment on whether the current tiered ownership caps - which vary based on market size and include separate AM and FM subcaps - should be loosened, tightened, or eliminated altogether. It is also asking whether the definition of the "audio marketplace" should expand to include satellite radio, streaming platforms, podcasts, and other digital competitors, or continue to treat broadcast radio as a distinct market.

For local radio, potential changes could reshape ownership consolidation across markets. The Commission noted it is particularly interested in how the rules affect competition, localism, and viewpoint diversity, as well as whether they should be adjusted to provide relief for smaller or struggling stations.

The National Association of Broadcasters praised the move. NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt said in a statement, "We commend Chairman Carr for jump-starting the long-overdue 2022 Quadrennial Ownership Review. Outdated rules have held broadcasters back for too long. Modernizing them means stronger local journalism, more investment in communities and the live sports fans count on. Broadcasters welcome this long-awaited step forward."

The NPRM (MB Docket No. 22-459) also covers the Local Television Ownership Rule and the Dual Network Rule, but the debate over radio ownership caps is expected to draw significant attention from broadcasters facing intense competition from digital audio platforms.

Public comments will be accepted following publication in the Federal Register, with reply comments due 60 days later.

CMA Announces 2025 Broadcast Award Nominations

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 3:44pm CT

CMA Broadcast Awards

Nominees for the CMA Broadcast Awards are out in the field of Country Radio. The categories are established by market size based on population as ranked by Nielsen. Entries for Broadcast Personality and Station of the Year are judged on Aircheck, Community Involvement, Ratings, and Leadership & Impact Information. Here are all the nominees:

National Personality of the Year (Weekly)

• "Country Countdown USA," Lon Helton (Lon Helton Productions)

• "The Country Top 40 with Fitz," Cory "Fitz" Fitzner (Hubbard Broadcasting)

• "The Original Country Gold," Rowdy Yates (Syndicated Media)

• "Today's Country Radio," Kelleigh Bannen (Apple Music Radio)

• "Y'all Access with Kelly Sutton," Kelly Sutton (Compass Media Group)

• "Big D & Bubba," Big D (Derek Haskins), Bubba (Sean Powell), Carsen Humphreville, Jonathan Shaffer, Garrett Freche (Silverfish Media)

• "Highway Mornings with Cody Alan," Cody Alan and Lauryn Snapp (SiriusXM)

• "Ridin' With Rowdy," Rowdy Yates (SuiteRadio / RFC Media)

• "The Rob and Holly Show," Rob Stone and Holly Hutton (Audacy)

• "Wilhite and Wall Show," Darren Wilhite and Tim Wall (Ebert Productions)

• "Chris Carr & Company," Chris Carr, Sam Sansevere, Dubs (Michael Wilczynski) (KEEY - Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN)

• "Hawkeye and Michelle," Mark Louis "Hawkeye" Rybczyk and Michelle Rodriguez (KSCS - Dallas-Fort Worth, TX)

• "The Lo Show," Lauren "Lo" Barker (KKBQ - Houston, TX)

• "Rachel Ryan," Rachel Ryan (KSCS - Dallas-Fort Worth, TX)

• "The Scotty Kay Show," Scotty Kay (WUSN - Chicago, IL)

• "Deb & Matt in the Morning," Deborah Honeycutt and Matt Malone (WFMS - Indianapolis, IN)

• "The Q Morning Crew w/ Mike & Amanda," Mike Wheless and Amanda Daughtry (WQDR - Raleigh-Durham, NC)

• "Scott and Shannen," Scott Dolphin and Shannen Oesterreich (WMIL - Milwaukee, WI)

• "Tim & Chelsea," Tim Leary and Chelsea Taylor (WIRK - West Palm Beach-Boca Raton, FL)

• "Wayne D and Tay," Wayne D Danielson and Tay Hamilton (WSIX - Nashville, TN)

• "The Doc Show with Chewy," Ken "Doc" Medek and Sean "Chewy" Medek (WGGY - Wilkes Barre-Scranton, PA)

• "Ellis and Bradley Show," Bill Ellis and Beth Bradley (WSSL - Greenville-Spartanburg, SC)

• "Joey & Nancy," Joey Tack, Nancy Barger, and Karly Duggan (WIVK - Knoxville, TN)

• "Mo & StyckMan," Melissa "Mo" Wagner and Greg "StyckMan" Owens (WUSY - Chattanooga, TN)

• "Spencer Graves Show," Spencer Graves, Megan Terry, and Blair Davis (WDXB - Birmingham, AL)

• "Ben & Arnie," Ben Butler and Arnie Andrews (WCOW - La Crosse, WI)

• "Brent Lane and The Cat Pak Morning Show," Brent Lane and Jordan Glass (WYCT - Pensacola, FL)

• "Dan Austin Show," Dan Austin (WQHK - Fort Wayne, IN)

• "Hilley & Hart," Kevin Hilley and Erin Hart (KATI - Columbia, MO)

• "Liz & Scotty in the Morning," Liz Del Grosso and Scotty Cox (KCLR - Columbia, MO)

• KKBQ/Houston, TX

• KSCS/Dallas-Fort Worth, TX

• KYGO/Denver-Boulder, CO

• WUSN/Chicago, IL

• WXTU/Philadelphia, PA

• WCTK/Providence-Warwick-Pawtucket, RI

• WMIL/Milwaukee-Racine, WI

• WSIX/Nashville, TN

• WUBE/Cincinnati, OH

• WWKA/Orlando, FL

• KUZZ/Bakersfield, CA

• WHKO/Dayton, OH

• WIVK/Knoxville, TN

• WLFP/Memphis, TN

• WQMX/Akron, OH

• KATI/Columbia, MO

• KCLR/Columbia, MO

• WCOW/La Crosse, WI

• WKML/Fayetteville, NC

• WXBQ/Johnson City-Kingsport-Bristol, TN-VA

The CMA Broadcast Awards will be presented during the 59th Annual CMA Awards, airing LIVE November 19, 2025 at 8/7c on ABC.

Connoisseur Announces Programming Leadership Team

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 2:07pm CT

Connoisseur Media

Following the recent appointment of Keith Dakin as Senior Vice President of Programming, Connoisseur Media has announced the addition of new format coordinators and expanded leadership roles across several of its key markets nationwide.

"These moves today will allow us to have a dedicated group of programmers that can work with our local markets, partners, vendors, and the record community on a one-to-one basis," stated Keith Dakin, SVP of Programming. "The idea here is that we will always have someone who can fix a problem, answer a question, and, most importantly, make a decision. Radio, to stay relevant, needs to have empowered leaders that can make things happen fast. I believe today we have that team."

New Format Coordinators

Ben Davis: Top 40
Based in Louisville, KY, Davis serves as Operations Manager and morning host of Ben and Kelly in the Morning on WDJX, which he also programs.

Kevin Begley: Hot AC
Based in Metro Fairfield, CT, Begley programs WEZN and hosts afternoons. He has played a role in the success of the syndicated Anna and Raven Show.

Darrick "Brown" Williams: Urban/Rhythmic CHR
Based in Columbia, SC, Brown is Operations Manager and has overseen the strong performance of Connoisseur's urban stations. He now adds Rhythmic CHR oversight to his role.

Ross MacLeod: News/Talk
Based in Portland, OR, MacLeod is Operations Manager and Program Director for KXL. A recent addition to Connoisseur, he joined the company this past summer.

Rob Kelley: Country
Based in Lincoln, NE, Kelley serves as Operations Manager in Lincoln and Topeka. With years of experience leading Country stations, he continues as Country Format Coordinator after previously holding the role at Alpha Media.

Allan Lamberti: Rock
Based in New Haven, CT, Lamberti currently programs WPLR and WICC. A 20-year veteran of Connoisseur Media's Connecticut stations, he brings experience to the Rock format portfolio.

Connoisseur also announced that Patrick Shea, based on Long Island, will be working with emerging technology and radio automation companies.

Dallas Cowboys Partner with iHeartMedia Austin

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 10:24am CT

Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys and iHeartMedia Austin have announced a new broadcast partnership that will bring live play-by-play coverage of every Cowboys game to Country 98.1 KVET in Austin. Beginning this season, fans across Central Texas can tune in to each game, along with pregame and postgame shows. The coverage will also stream nationwide on the free iHeartRadio app.

The broadcasts will feature the Dallas Cowboys Radio Network team, led by longtime play-by-play voice Brad Sham. Former Cowboys quarterback Babe Laufenberg returns as full-time color analyst, and Kristi Scales will provide in-game reports and updates from the sidelines.

"We're thrilled to have the Dallas Cowboys on such a legendary station in Austin," said Douglas Barricklow of the Dallas Cowboys Radio Network. "KVET's powerful signal and dedicated fan base make it the perfect home for Cowboys football fans to tune in all season long."

Jason McCollim, Director of Operations for iHeartMedia Texas, emphasized the reach of the new partnership. "From the city to the Hill Country, fans can now hear America's Team loud and clear all season long."

Christine Escobar, Market President of iHeartMedia Austin, added: "Bringing Dallas Cowboys games to our listeners will be a game-changer for our station group here in Austin. The Cowboys' legacy and the energy they inspire resonates deeply within our sports community. We're proud to be the local home for one of the most iconic franchises in sports."

Pillar Media Ups Mahaffey, Lewis and Rodriguez

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 10:42am CT

Pillar Media

Pillar Media elevates three of its veteran broadcasters into new leadership roles within its programming team. Skip Mahaffey has been named Creative Director and Talent Coach, Rob Lewis has been promoted to Programming Operations Manager, and SLiM Rodriguez has been appointed Assistant Program Director at KSRC (Star 101.5) in Denver.

"Elevating Skip to this new role means that all of the on-air team at Pillar Media stations benefit from Skip's experience and ability to connect with listeners in an authentic way," said Matt Stockman, Brand Director at Pillar Media. "Skip's passion for developing other talent is crucial to our future growth, and I'm glad we can capitalize on it."

Mahaffey, who joined Pillar Media two years ago, brings more than 40 years of radio experience to his new position. Lewis, who has spent his entire 30-year career with the company, moves into his expanded role overseeing programming operations. Rodriguez, a 32-year industry veteran, came to Pillar Media in 2024 during the company's Denver market acquisition.

"The promotion of Rob and SLiM to these new roles is a direct result of their commitment to excellence and the deep desire in our organization to cultivate leadership from within," Stockman added. "I am excited to see the ways in which each of them grow our influence."

Jacobs Media, Ten-Minute Trainer Partner on Sales Training

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 2:56pm CT

Jacobs Media

In response to rapid shifts in the media marketplace, Jacobs Media has announced a new partnership with the Ten-Minute Trainer Network to deliver digital and AI-focused training for sales teams across markets of all sizes.

The initiative will integrate Jacobs Media's Jacobs DR (Digital Revenue) program into the Ten-Minute Trainer Network's on-demand platform, offering courses designed to help media organizations adapt to digital disruption and emerging revenue opportunities.

Chris Brunt, Jacobs Media's Director of Digital and AI, will lead the effort. Brunt, who has extensive experience in digital revenue strategy, said the collaboration addresses an industry-wide need for stronger digital fluency.

"At all levels of the industry -- from local broadcasters to regional clusters -- there's a massive opportunity to evolve," said Brunt. "Whether you're in a top-10 market or a rural town, having a digital strategy is critical. This partnership helps sellers take that next step so they can take advantage of where the dollars are heading."

Training modules will cover topics including digital marketing fundamentals, audience targeting, SEO/SEM, social media, video and audio strategies, OTT, campaign attribution, and integrating traditional and digital sales efforts.

Paul Jacobs, Vice President of Jacobs Media, said the goal is to equip media professionals for long-term growth. "The future of media sales belongs to those who embrace innovation and agility. By partnering with Ten-Minute Trainer Network, we're not just reacting to change -- we're leading it."

Bryan Marriott, President and General Manager of the Ten-Minute Trainer Network, added that the partnership is designed to "reshape the media sales conversation." He noted, "Jacobs Media's digital leadership -- through Chris Brunt -- and our on-demand platform combine to create an essential resource for anyone looking to future-proof their team and business."

The new Jacobs DR courses will be available in early October on the Ten-Minute Trainer Network platform.

Rejoice Musical Soul Food Rebrands as Rejoice Networks

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 8:26pm CT

Rejoice Networks

Rejoice Musical Soul Food Network has announced a major rebrand to Rejoice Networks, reflecting its transformation into a broader platform for inspirational media, live events, and community partnerships.

"We are experiencing unprecedented growth as we transform into Rejoice Networks," said Mike Chandler, President of Rejoice Networks. "We're not just a radio network-we're a comprehensive platform for inspiration, community building, and positive impact."

As part of its expansion, Rejoice Networks has added two new affiliate stations: WIGO in Atlanta, and WTOY in Roanoke, VA. Chandler emphasized the significance of the additions: "Our expansion into Atlanta and Roanoke represents more than just increased coverage -- it's about deepening our connection with communities that share our values."

Beyond broadcasting, the company is extending its impact through new partnerships. Rejoice Networks has teamed with Higher Purpose Consulting, LLC to present the Heal the Hurt Emotional Wellness virtual series and conference, addressing mental health and emotional wellness within faith communities.

The network has also partnered with the Ubiquitous Women's Expo to deliver the Sunday Food for the Soul program lineup, featuring gospel artist Travis Malloy, singer-songwriter JJ Hairston, and a Heal the Hurt panel discussion with celebrity guests. These initiatives reinforce the company's commitment to empowering women and families through faith-based engagement.

NYSBA Names Catsimatidis 2025 Broadcaster of the Year

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 10:34am CT

John Catsimatidis

The New York State Broadcasters Association (NYSBA) has selected Red Apple Media CEO John Catsimatidis as its 2025 New York Broadcaster of the Year. He will be recognized at the Broadcast Leadership and Hall of Fame Luncheon on October 22 at the Rainbow Room in New York City.

"John has had unparalleled success turning around 77WABC and expanding Red Apple Media throughout the country," said David Donovan, President of NYSBA. "He has also led legislative efforts to keep AM radio in vehicles, a vital issue for all New Yorkers."

Catsimatidis, who purchased 77WABC in March 2020, has since grown Red Apple Media with acquisitions including WLIR-FM in Suffolk County and WRCR-AM in Rockland County, while launching Red Apple Audio Networks to syndicate WABC personalities nationwide. Today, its programming airs on 495 affiliates.

In addition to his role as CEO of Red Apple Media, Catsimatidis hosts the syndicated Cats Roundtable on Sunday mornings and co-hosts Cats & Cosby alongside Rita Cosby on weekday afternoons. He has interviewed a wide range of political and business leaders, from former presidents Donald Trump and Bill Clinton to congressional leaders across the political spectrum.

"Radio is an integral part of listeners' lives and often the only source of information during times of disaster," Catsimatidis said. "Car manufacturers are risking lives by taking AM off the dashboard of new cars. Together, we can stop this, and we must stop it."

Beyond broadcasting, Catsimatidis is a billionaire businessman and philanthropist as CEO of the Red Apple Group, which owns Gristedes supermarkets, United Refining Company, and other businesses. Along with his wife Margo, he supports numerous charitable causes through personal contributions and the WABC Radio Foundation.

More information on the NYSBA Broadcast Leadership and Hall of Fame Luncheon is available at nysbroadcasters.org.

New Generation Radio Partners with YURtix

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 2:43pm CT

Virtual Jock

New Generation Radio, through its Virtual Jock platform, has entered into a strategic partnership with YURtix, a white-label ticketing solution designed for radio companies and media groups. The collaboration enables stations to generate revenue from every ticket sold, whether tied to their own events or those hosted by clients.

Virtual Jock's network spans more than 5,500 event sites, reaching 43 million people and handling over 5 million submitted events in the past 12 years. By leveraging this reach, stations can expand their role in local event ecosystems.

YURtix offers a turnkey platform that is free for event creators and allows stations to participate for a flat annual fee, with cash or barter options. The system includes features such as reserved seating, mobile check-in, secure on-site sales, unlimited ticket types and pricing, integrated marketing and analytics, and app integrations.

"At a time when radio needs fresh, reliable revenue models, our partnership with YURtix turns stations into revenue-generating ticketing brands," said Jason Kidd, President and CEO of New Generation Radio. "Whether you're promoting your own events or acting as an event partner, you share in every ticket sold-with the flexibility of cash or barter to get started."

According to the companies, the YURtix platform can be integrated and fully operational within 60 days, supported by a growth team providing sales, marketing, and client service assistance.

Faith Podcasts Announces All-Star Cast of ''The Christ''

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 4:10pm CT

''The Christ''

Northwestern Media's Faith Podcast Network has announced the principal cast for "The Christ," a large-scale dramatized podcast that brings the story of Jesus to life with cinematic sound. The four-part series is set to debut the week of Easter 2026 on all major podcast platforms and across Northwestern Media's 15-station radio network.

Headlining the ensemble is Emmy Award-winner Tom Pelphrey (Ozark, Task) as Jesus. He will be joined by Emmy and Golden Globe-winner Paul Walter Hauser (Richard Jewell, Black Bird) as John the Baptist; Emmy and Golden Globe-nominee David Oyelowo (Selma, Lawman: Bass Reeves) as Pontius Pilate; legendary screen actor John Rhys-Davies (The Lord of the Rings) as the Narrator; Emmy Award-winner Patricia Heaton (Everybody Loves Raymond) as the Host; and Courtney Hope (The Young and the Restless) as Mary, mother of Jesus.

"We set out to create the most immersive, soul-stirring audio experience of the Gospel ever produced," said Karisa Rogers, manager of the Faith Podcast Network. "This extraordinary cast brings both dramatic weight and genuine faith to the greatest story ever told-the story of Jesus Christ. It continues to transform lives today."

Created and written by P.G. Cuschieri, and produced by Mark Ramsey and Jim Young, the series is directed by Ramsey. "THE CHRIST" will take listeners on a journey from the annunciation to the ascension. The episodes will be structured in four arcs: Advent anticipation, Jesus' public ministry, the passion story, and the hope of the resurrection.

Faith Podcasts also plans to partner with networks and stations nationwide to bring the dramatized story to a wider audience.

iHeart Debuts ''Desperately Devoted'' Podcast on Housewives

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 4:03pm CT

''Desperately Devoted''

iHeartPodcasts has debuted a new series titled "Desperately Devoted," hosted by Desperate Housewives star Teri Hatcher, her on-screen daughter Andrea Bowen, and her real-life daughter Emerson Tenney. The podcast revisits the iconic ABC drama, which premiered nearly 21 years ago, while sparking fresh conversations that connect the show's themes to today's cultural landscape.

Each week, the hosts rewatch and reflect on memorable storylines and characters from Wisteria Lane, using them as a springboard for broader discussions on topics such as relationships, women's issues, parenting, sex and identity. Hatcher and Bowen offer behind-the-scenes memories and insights from their time on the series, while Tenney-watching the show for the first time-brings a modern lens and fresh perspective.

"When I'm out and about, I'm always meeting fans who are rewatching or watching the show for the first time," said Hatcher. "So, I'm thrilled to partner with iHeartRadio on this podcast as a way to create a community for fans and to chat with my two amazing daughters about Wisteria Lane and all the life themes it inspires us to consider."

Bowen, who played Julie Mayer on the series, added, "Growing up on Desperate Housewives was a very unique and special experience and getting to revisit the show now as a 35-year-old mom-to-be will be sure to provide new perspectives, old memories and lots of interesting conversations along the way."

Tenney, a writer and podcast enthusiast, said the project combines two of her passions: "It's the combination of two things I love - the opportunity to be part of a fun and inclusive space for podcast listeners, and the chance for me to watch an iconic piece of TV history in full for the first time."

Desperately Devoted is distributed by iHeartPodcasts and is available now on the iHeartRadio app and across all major podcast platforms.

Lemonada Media Announces ''Since You Asked'' Podcast

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 4:20pm CT

''Since You Asked''

Lemonada Media has announced the launch of "Since You Asked," a new weekly advice podcast hosted by New York Times bestselling authors and longtime friends Lori Gottlieb and Gretchen Rubin. The series will debut on September 23 across all major podcast platforms.

The show aims to help listeners navigate life's everyday challenges - from nagging pet peeves to difficult personal dilemmas. Each episode will feature interactive segments, including traditional advice questions, follow-ups from previous discussions, and even moments of unsolicited advice.

Gottlieb, author of Maybe You Should Talk to Someone, also co-hosts the popular Dear Therapists podcast and pens The New York Times' "Ask the Therapist" column. Rubin, who co-hosts the podcast Happier with Gretchen Rubin with her sister Elizabeth Craft, is the author of several bestselling books including The Happiness Project and Better Than Before.

"We all wrestle with life's challenges, and sometimes the best thing we can do is ask for help," Gottlieb and Rubin said in a joint statement. "With Since You Asked, we're inviting listeners into a conversation that's both practical and personal. We're excited to share our expertise and our own stumbles and learn from our community along the way."

Jessica Cordova Kramer, CEO of Lemonada Media, added: "Lori and Gretchen are two of the most trusted voices when it comes to helping people live fuller, richer, more meaningful lives. This new show brings their friendship, humor, and wisdom together in a way that feels like sitting down with people who really get you. It's smart, warm, and exactly the kind of show we're proud to bring into the Lemonada family."

Since You Asked premieres Tuesday, September 23, with new episodes dropping weekly.

TuneIn Partners with EV Manufacturer BYD Auto

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 3:58pm CT

TuneIn

TuneIn has announced a new partnership with BYD Auto Co., LTD, the world's largest manufacturer of new energy vehicles, to integrate its catalog of live radio stations, podcasts, and audiobooks directly into BYD's lineup of vehicles.

The collaboration expands TuneIn's footprint in the automotive space, giving drivers worldwide seamless access to audio content through BYD's Intelligent Cockpit System. The in-car interface, which features the world's first rotatable PAD, allows control via touch or voice commands, enabling hands-free listening for both drivers and passengers.

"We are bringing innovative entertainment experiences to more drivers worldwide through our partnership with BYD," said TuneIn CEO Rich Stern. "Our integration with BYD, the world's largest manufacturer of electric vehicles, represents a major milestone in our mission to make high-quality audio content easily accessible wherever our listeners may be."

As part of the rollout, TuneIn will provide BYD drivers with extended free trials: a 30-day trial for new monthly subscribers and a 90-day trial for annual subscribers. Existing TuneIn Premium customers who drive BYD vehicles will also benefit, with access to ad-free news, commercial-free music, and premium sports coverage in supported regions.

Flightpath, Backyard Partner on Predictive Analytics

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 4:15pm CT

Flightpath and Backyard Ventures

Flightpath, a predictive analytics platform for on-demand media, has announced a partnership with Backyard Ventures (BV), a firm specializing in content creator partnerships. The collaboration aims to enhance BV's sales operations, planning, and data management through Flightpath's forecasting and campaign performance tools.

Under the agreement, BV will leverage Flightpath's predictive suite to gain greater visibility into inventory, performance, and delivery across its portfolio. The added insights are expected to strengthen revenue planning, support advertiser engagement, and uncover new monetization opportunities for both creators and brands.

"We look forward to partnering with Flightpath to bring additional precision to our forecasting and campaign management," said John Jarvis, VP of Partnerships & Strategy at Backyard Ventures. "Flightpath's tools are designed to strengthen our support for creators, improve advertiser engagement, and facilitate scalable growth."

Flightpath's platform is designed to streamline operations, enabling BV's team to prioritize business development and client relationships.

"We are excited to support BV's continued growth," added Laurie Belleau, Chief Revenue Officer at Flightpath. "Flightpath provides precise forecasting capabilities that will help drive sustainable revenue for the BV team."

StreamGuys Elevates LaBelle, Orr to EVP Posts

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, September 9, 2025 | 3:50pm CT

StreamGuys

StreamGuys has promoted two longtime department heads to its executive team, naming Tim LaBelle Executive Vice President of Global Sales and Jesse Orr Executive Vice President of Engineering, effective immediately. LaBelle will report to COO Jonathan Speaker, while Orr will report to President Kiriki Delany.

In his new role, LaBelle will oversee worldwide sales and business development. "My primary responsibilities are to lead global sales, ensuring media companies can leverage our extensive services and programs," he said. "My experience with bringing a technical perspective to sales helps me address emerging customer challenges, diversify our markets, and support our teams to develop business initiatives that generate clients' revenue. That includes continued development of our monetization and advertising revenue business, and helping our customers be as successful as possible."

Orr, a longtime engineering leader at StreamGuys, will focus on operational efficiency and reliability across the company's networking, infrastructure and global data centers. "I'll work with our product development and systems engineering teams to adopt modern practices for software and coding, deploy new AI and automation for service monitoring and more, and generally maintain the highest level of network service for StreamGuys and our customers," said Orr. "I'll also work closely with product management and analytics to maintain our leadership positions in product and service innovation."

"StreamGuys works for independent media companies around the world, we lead the streaming industry in quality and service, and we do that with our team of expert and friendly streaming staff," said Delany. "Tim and Jesse are two outstanding stars amongst our team. They are an invaluable resource for our customers and staff alike. Having been in business for 25 years we are excited to continue our legacy with their executive leadership."

StreamGuys said its team will be on the floor at IBC2025 at Amsterdam RAI beginning Friday, September 12, to discuss new streaming and analytics innovations, including the latest version of SGreports announced last month.

Connoisseur Media Promotes Leaders, Adds Bridges

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, September 8, 2025 | 1:59pm CT

Ed Oliveira and Robby Bridges

Connoisseur Media has announced several key leadership moves across its Connecticut and Long Island markets. Ed Oliveira (pictured left) is elevated to Operations Manager, Connecticut, after more than a decade with the company. He previously served as Director of Traffic & Creative Services and led the Ferocious Content division.

Oliveira began his career in Richmond, VA at Cox Media before moving on to co-host and produce The Sandbox morning show on WFNX Boston in 2007. He later joined Connoisseur in Connecticut in 2011, working as a producer, on-air talent, and production director.

"I am grateful for this opportunity and excited to take on this expanded role," said Oliveira. "This feels like a natural step for me, and I appreciate Kristin Okesson for believing in me and my abilities. One person that has been a near-constant in my career is Keith Dakin. Having the opportunity to receive the baton from him and building on his work is a task I take on with pride. I am beyond excited to expand my role with the amazing people on this team."

Meghan Boyd, who has led digital and design efforts for Connoisseur's Connecticut stations since 2011, will now also oversee the company's Long Island portfolio as Director of Digital & Design. "I'm excited to join the Long Island team and take on this new role as Connoisseur's heritage markets of Connecticut and Long Island continue to work together," Boyd said. "I'm very grateful to Jeff, Kristin and Connoisseur for the opportunity to start this new chapter and connect with the listeners and team on Long Island."

In addition, Robby Bridges is returning to Connoisseur as Program Director and midday host at Country WWWF (103.1 The Wolf) Long Island, while also serving as Program Director of AC WEBE 108 in Bridgeport, CT. Bridges' previous Country stints include WCTK, WFMS, WOKQ, WPKQ, WLXV, and WDRQ, as well as a previous programming role at WEBE 108. Most recently, he was Vice President of Programming and PD at 107.1/99.7 The Boss in New Jersey. He begins his new role September 22.

"I'm absolutely thrilled to join the team at Connoisseur Media during this exciting time," said Bridges. "I'm looking forward to working with Patrick Shea on Long Island to grow 103.1 The Wolf/WWWF into one of the biggest country stations in America and also to return to guide the iconic WEBE 108 in Connecticut."

Connoisseur Media Senior Vice President/Market Manager Kristin Okesson added, "The best part of my job is giving talented, passionate people opportunities to grow. For the last 10-plus years I've worked alongside Ed and Meghan, and without them, much of what we do in Connecticut wouldn't be possible. Being able to expand their roles is incredibly exciting for me, and I'm also thrilled to bring back a former colleague, Robby Bridges."