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Connoisseur Media Closes MO, MN, SD Station Sales

Connoisseur Media

Connoisseur Media has completed the sale of multiple radio outlets in Missouri, Minnesota and South Dakota, transferring the properties to regional broadcast operators in three separate transactions brokered by Kalil & Co., Inc.

The largest deal involves the sale of 17 stations and translators across several Missouri communities -- Cameron, Cairo, Lebanon, Macon, Moberly, Bethany, Waynesville and Madison - to Carter Media Too LLC. The buyer is a Carrollton, MO-based company led by Miles and Michael Carter, which also owns three additional Missouri stations and streaming platform MidVid.com.

The stations include KAAN-AM/FM in Bethany; KBNN-AM and KJEL-FM in Lebanon; KFBD-FM, KIIK-AM, KJPW-AM and KOZQ-FM in Waynesville; KIRK-FM in Macon; KKWK-FM, KMRN-AM and translator K257GU in Cameron; KRES-FM and KWIX-AM in Moberly; KWIX-FM in Cairo; KTCM-FM in Madison; and translator K279AP in Bethany.

In a separate transaction, Connoisseur has closed on the sale of KLQL-FM and KQAD-AM in Luverne, MN to Christensen Broadcasting LUV, LLC, headed by Collin Christensen. Christensen Broadcasting operates eight stations across Minnesota.

Additionally, Connoisseur completed the sale of KJAM-AM and KJAM-FM in Madison, SD to Christensen Broadcast Group, Inc., led by Wallace Christensen.

The seller Connoisseur Media LLC, based in Westport, CT and headed by Jeff Warshaw, operates 216 stations across 47 markets nationwide. With the closings, Connoisseur continues to reshape its portfolio, while the Carter and Christensen groups expand their footprints in small- and mid-market communities across the Midwest.

2026 NAB Show Expands Sports Summit to Four Days

NAB Show

The 2026 NAB Show will expand its Sports Summit to four days, bringing together leaders from professional leagues, teams, media companies and technology firms to examine the evolving business of sports media.

The NAB Show runs April 18-22, with exhibits open April 19-22 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The Sports Summit will be held in the Sports Theater on the West Hall show floor and, for the first time, will be open to all attendees with a Show Floor Pass.

Organizers said the expanded Summit will focus on how production, distribution, investment and policy are reshaping live sports and creating new revenue opportunities across platforms.

A featured session will include Jon Miller, President of Acquisitions and Partnerships at NBC Sports, in a Main Stage fireside conversation with John Ourand of Puck's "The Varsity." The discussion, titled "NBC Sports Playbook: Rights, Partnerships and What's Next," will explore the company's strategy around major rights acquisitions and distribution partnerships.

The conversation follows what NBC Sports described as a "Legendary February," during which it presented the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, Super Bowl LX and the NBA All-Star Game within the same month.

"The media world continues to evolve, but broadcast television remains stronger and more important than ever before," Miller said, adding that long-term sports agreements continue to include broadcast as a central component for partners.

Karen Chupka, Executive Vice President and Managing Director of NAB Global Connections and Events, said the economics of sports media are shifting quickly. "With Jon Miller and leaders from across leagues, teams, venues and investment groups, we're bringing together the executives who are actively shaping the future of rights, partnerships and fan engagement," she said.

Registered attendees for the Summit include executives from major leagues such as National Football League, National Basketball Association, Major League Baseball, National Hockey League, NASCAR and the Ultimate Fighting Championship, among others.

Team representation includes the Dallas Cowboys, Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, San Francisco 49ers, Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns and Liverpool F.C..

Veteran L.A. Personality Uncle Joe Benson Dead at 77

Uncle Joe Benson (Photo Credit: Michael Schwartz)

Veteran Los Angeles radio personality Uncle Joe Benson, whose distinctive baritone became a staple of Southern California rock radio for decades, has died at 77 following a battle with Parkinson's Disease.

News of his passing was shared via the Facebook page for his program, "Uncle Joe's Garage," just after midnight Pacific Time on Friday. According to family members, Benson died peacefully on February 24 from Parkinson's Disease, Parkinson's Dementia and complications from a fall.

Benson spent more than 30 years at KLOS-FM (95.5), where he became one of the heritage rocker's most recognizable voices. He first joined the station in 1980 during a fiercely competitive era in Los Angeles radio that included rivals such as KMET and the then-emerging KROQ. His tenure at KLOS spanned two stints totaling three decades.

Beyond KLOS, Benson was heard at KLSX-FM, KCBS-FM during its "Arrow 93.1" era, and KSWD-FM, where he hosted middays until the station signed off in 2017.

Among his most popular programs was "The 7th Day" on KLOS, where he played a full album every Sunday night. He also hosted "Local Licks," a show credited with helping introduce emerging Los Angeles artists - including Motley Crue - to a wider audience.

Nationally, Benson hosted the syndicated "Ultimate Classic Rock" from 2021 to 2024 and helmed the long-running weekend specialty show "Off The Record" from 1998 through January 2025. Over the years, he conducted in-depth interviews with artists including Jimmy Page, Don Felder, Pat Benatar and Steve Perry, often turning short interview slots into extended conversations.

Benson's radio career began in 1968 in Illinois, broadcasting from a double-wide trailer next to a cornfield. He later worked in Wisconsin and Cleveland before arriving in Los Angeles in 1980.

He is survived by his wife, Jan, and sons Jay and Jeremy. The family has requested that donations in his memory be made to the Brain Donor Project or the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

Noiser Launches ''Real Vikings'' Podcast

Real Vikings

Podcast network Noiser is expanding its slate of historical programming with the launch of Real Vikings, a new 10-episode series narrated by Iain Glen. The series premieres March 10. Best known for roles in Game of Thrones and Downton Abbey, Glen lends his voice to the series, which explores the historical realities behind one of history's most mythologized cultures.

Real Vikings focuses on separating fact from fiction, offering fresh historical analysis aimed at both dedicated history enthusiasts and newcomers. The series examines Viking-era raids, battles and expansion, while also highlighting lesser-known stories and cultural contributions.

Among the figures featured are legendary Norse leaders Ragnar Lothbrok, Canute and Harald Hardrada. The podcast also explores events and legacies ranging from a Viking-era murder mystery on Dorset's Chesil Beach to the founding of Iceland's Althing parliament. Additional episodes trace evidence of Viking influence as far as Istanbul's Hagia Sophia and Vinland in North America, centuries before Christopher Columbus.

Noiser says the series combines expert commentary, immersive sound design and narrative storytelling to present a broader view of the Viking Age and its continuing influence on the modern world.

Real Vikings will be available free on major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and ad-free on BBC Sounds.

Sunny 104.3 Debuts in Phoenix, Mega Moves

KAJM-FM (Sunny 104.3) Phoenix

Sierra H Multimedia has launched Sunny 104.3 in Phoenix, flipping Urban-formatted KAJM-FM (Mega 104.3) to a Soft AC format branded as "Relaxing Favorites." Effective immediately, Sunny 104.3 replaces the former Mega 104.3, introducing a mix of pop and AC hits spanning four decades. The station is targeting at-work listeners with a presentation centered on familiar songs and an upbeat, feel-good approach.

The playlist includes artists such as Adele, Celine Dion, Michael Bolton, Bruno Mars, Whitney Houston, Phil Collins, Ed Sheeran, Elton John, Chicago and Air Supply.

As part of the format change, the Mega 104.3 brand has moved to 99.3 FM. Sierra H Multimedia said the station will continue its existing programming and on-air personalities at the new dial position.

"It's a Sunny day, and we're proud to introduce a new destination for at-work listening and Relaxing Favorites for the Valley of the Sun," said Content Director Eric Rosado. He described the station as filling a gap in the market with familiar hits presented in a "Soft Adult Contemporary" format designed to resonate with Phoenix listeners.

Sierra H Multimedia Owner Ken Brentlinger said the launch expands the company's portfolio to three stations and adds what he called a proven format aimed at both listeners and advertisers.

Sunny 104.3 is now available across the Phoenix metro area on 104.3 FM, while Mega 104.3 can be heard on 99.3 FM.

Report: Hispanic Growth Outpaces Ad Spend Investment

Katz Radio Group

Katz Radio Group is urging advertisers to rethink their media allocations as Hispanic consumers continue to drive U.S. population and economic growth while receiving a disproportionately small share of ad dollars.

In its latest Sound Answers post, Katz Radio notes that although Hispanics account for the majority of recent U.S. population growth and command trillions in buying power, they receive only about four cents of every advertising dollar. That share has inched up only slightly from roughly 3% in 2000 to about 4% today.

The post frames Hispanic consumers not as a niche audience, but as a structural growth engine for brands. Hispanics now represent approximately 25% of the U.S. population under age 30, positioning the segment as central to long-term brand development. Hispanic buying power has grown from roughly $1.6-$1.9 trillion a decade ago to an estimated $2.6-$2.7 trillion in the mid-2020s. Between 2022 and 2023, Hispanics accounted for more than 70% of the overall increase in the U.S. population.

Population concentration in major and mid-sized markets further underscores the opportunity. In Los Angeles, 46.9% of residents are Hispanic, while Houston stands at 43.9%. Markets such as El Paso (81.2%), San Antonio (63.8%), and Miami (70.2%) reflect even higher concentrations, highlighting the segment's influence in key media markets.

Katz Radio argues that underinvestment carries long-term risks. Limited ad spend reduces share-of-voice, which in turn diminishes brand salience and weakens equity in the fastest-growing consumer segment. With Hispanics representing a quarter of Americans under 30, the company suggests that brands failing to invest now risk higher acquisition costs and lost generational loyalty later.

The post also positions radio as a primary channel for reaching Hispanic audiences. According to the Katz Radio Group 2026 Media Trust Study, 89% of Hispanic persons 12+ listen to radio weekly. Additionally, 87% consider radio to be very trustworthy or trustworthy -- the highest rating among major media platforms. By comparison, podcasts rated 79%, newspapers 76%, magazines 69%, television 67%, and social media 59%.

Katz describes radio's strength among Hispanic audiences as rooted in daily habit, cultural relevance, language, and community connection. In a fragmented media environment, the company says radio remains a consistent, real-time touchpoint embedded in work, family life, and cultural expression.

The post concludes that demographic momentum, economic power, and cultural influence among Hispanic consumers are clear. The remaining question for advertisers, Katz writes, is whether media investment will align with that reality.

Read the entire article here.

Triton Q4 Ranker Shows Genre, Sports Gains

Triton Digital

Triton Digital has released its Q4 2025 U.S. Podcast Ranker, the third installment in its quarterly reporting series launched in August 2025, highlighting how listening patterns shifted during the final months of the year.

The report shows podcast consumption remained strong through holiday travel, peak sports seasons and year-end reflection, with immersive storytelling and sports content driving notable engagement gains.

"Podcasting has become appointment media in moments that matter, from sports seasons and cultural milestones to end-of-year reflection and planning," said Daryl Battaglia, SVP, Measurement Products & Strategy at Triton Digital. He added that Q4 listening reflected sustained, intentional engagement tied to real-world behaviors, offering marketers insight into when audiences are most receptive.

Top Categories Hold Steady

The top podcast categories by reach were unchanged from Q3:

Comedy (40.9%)
News (26.7%)
Society & Culture (23.0%)

However, several genres posted significant quarter-over-quarter growth:

True Crime: up 23% (17.2% in Q4 vs. 14.0% in Q3)
History: up 30% (4.8% vs. 3.7%)
Fiction: up 30% (3.0% vs. 2.3%)

Triton said the gains in true crime, fiction and history reflect audiences leaning into long-form storytelling during travel and downtime.

Breakout Shows in the Top 50

Among the biggest movers into the Top 50 in Q4:

Nightcap (Sports) surged 113 spots to #49
Fresh Air (Arts) climbed 49 spots to #41
Last Podcast On The Left (True Crime) jumped 46 spots to #47
Not Gonna Lie with Kylie Kelce (Society & Culture) rose 41 spots to #34
Shawn Ryan Show (Society & Culture) moved up 38 spots to #27
The Ramsey Show (Business) advanced 36 spots to #25

Good Hang with Amy Poehler continued its steady climb, rising from #70 in Q2 to #36 in Q4.

Download Leaders

Based on server-side measurement for January and including only sales networks directly measured by Triton, the top sales networks by average weekly downloads were:

iHeart Audience Network
Audacy Podcast Network
Audioboom

Top podcasts by average weekly downloads:

Stuff You Should Know (iHeart Audience Network)
48 Hours (Audacy Podcast Network)
My Favorite Murder with Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark (iHeart Audience Network)

Sports and Multicultural Insights

Sports podcasts saw strong engagement in Q4, aligning with the NFL playoff race, college football championships and the start of the NBA season. Notable risers included The Pat McAfee Show, Nightcap, The Dale Jr. Download, Fantasy Football Today and Jim Cornette Experience.

The report also highlighted distinct listening patterns across multicultural audiences. Black/African American listeners indexed higher for Music (37.6%), Sports (21.9%) and Religion & Spirituality (18.9%). Hispanic listeners showed strong affinity for Fiction (31.5%), Education (30.1%) and Kids & Family (28.5%).

Intent-Driven Listening

Triton's Q4 data pointed to strong connections between podcast consumption and real-world intent. Business travel intenders leaned toward Technology, Business, Science, Sports and History programming, while leisure travel intenders gravitated to Business, Sports, Science, News and Education. Purchase-oriented segments, including life insurance and auto intenders, showed heavy engagement across Kids & Family, Business, Music, Sports and Comedy.

The U.S. Podcast Ranker blends audience reach and behavioral data from Demos+, developed in collaboration with Signal Hill Insights, alongside Triton's 2025 U.S. Podcast Report, offering advertisers and publishers additional insight into evolving audience habits heading into 2026.

Dana Cortez Named Dynamo In-Game Host

Dana Cortez

Houston Dynamo FC has named Dana Cortez, host of the syndicated The Dana Cortez Show, as its official in-game host for the new season. The Major League Soccer season kicked off Saturday with Houston's match against Chicago Fire FC. Cortez made her debut at the home opener, engaging fans throughout the match with her on-field presence and audience interaction.

"Hosting the Houston Dynamo is such an honor, and I'm excited to be a part of MLS and a team H-Town loves!" Cortez said.

In addition to her new role with the Dynamo, Cortez is heard in Houston on Audacy's KHMX-FM (Mix 96.5), where she co-hosts mornings alongside DJ Automatic and Anthony A. The show is syndicated by Skyview Networks and airs on more than 20 affiliates nationwide.

JR Ammons, Brand Manager of KHMX-FM, said the program has strengthened its connection to local listeners through "authentic conversations" and "a genuine connection to the community."

KERA/Dallas to Launch ''NTX Now'' Morning Talk Show

Miranda Suarez and Ron Corning

KERA in Dallas will debut a new live, daily talk show this summer aimed at covering the people and issues shaping North Texas. "NTX Now" (pronounced North Texas Now) will air weekday mornings on KERA News 90.1 FM and across digital platforms. The program will be co-hosted by Ron Corning and Miranda Suarez, both familiar voices in the region's media landscape.

The hour-long show is designed to provide a regional lens on topics ranging from politics and civic life to education, arts and culture, innovation and health. According to KERA, the program will complement its existing lineup, which includes national coverage from NPR, statewide reporting from The Texas Newsroom and the locally produced program "Think."

KERA President and CEO Nico Leone said the new show will offer deeper local context for listeners while exploring potential solutions to challenges facing North Texas communities.

In addition to the live broadcast, "NTX Now" will expand into podcast, video and social media content, along with live events and community engagement initiatives.

Corning brings more than 15 years of experience in North Texas media, including eight years as a morning anchor at WFAA. Earlier in his career, he worked for ABC News in New York, anchoring "World News Now" and contributing to "Good Morning America." He described the program as an opportunity to provide fact-based journalism at a time when audiences are seeking trusted sources.

Suarez joined KERA News in 2020 after roles at WBUR in Boston and Wisconsin Public Radio. Most recently, she covered Tarrant County government, reporting that prompted discussion at local meetings and contributed to the closure of a West Texas private prison found to be in violation of state safety standards. She said the show will serve as a gathering place for listeners to better understand local developments.

Executive Producer Stephen Becker said the station has been planning for the launch and expects the combination of Corning and Suarez to resonate with listeners.

"NTX Now" is scheduled to begin airing this summer.

Natasha Verma to Host BFOA Gala in New York

Natasha Verma

The Broadcasters Foundation of America has named Natasha Verma as host of its 2026 Gala and Fundraiser, set for Monday, March 9, at the The Plaza Hotel. Verma serves as co-anchor of the 5pm, 6pm, and 10pm newscasts on WNYW FOX 5. She joined the station in 2022 from KUSA, where she was a weekday morning anchor. Earlier in her career, she worked as a reporter and anchor at NBC10 Boston and WBBH-TV, and began as a reporter at News 12 The Bronx.

The Broadcasters Foundation provides financial assistance to broadcasters facing acute hardship due to illness or disaster.

"Verma brings a vibrancy and excitement to our evening," said Tim McCarthy, President of the Broadcasters Foundation. "The Annual Gala is our biggest fundraiser, and the money is needed more than ever. The number of requests for aid goes up every year. That means more broadcasters than ever before are aware of our mission and we must answer their cry for help."

A cancer survivor, Verma said she understands the physical, mental, and financial toll that can accompany serious illness.

"I'm happy to host this major fundraising event for the only charity that helps so many in our business," she said. "Anyone can be impacted by a life-altering disease or disaster, and the Broadcasters Foundation must always be there to help."

As previously announced, the evening will honor Mark Lazarus, CEO of Versant and former chair of NBCUniversal Media Group, with the Golden Mic Award; Judge Judy Sheindlin with the Edward F. McLaughlin Lifetime Achievement Award; Stephen A. Smith with the inaugural Broadcast Personality of the Year Award; and Ernest A. Liebre with the Philip J. Lombardo Spirit Award.

Tickets for the gala are available through the Broadcasters Foundation.

SiriusXM to Air Full 2026 NTT INDYCAR Season

SiriusXM

SiriusXM will provide nationwide coverage of the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season, beginning with the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg on Sunday, March 1. Race coverage starts at noon ET.

Subscribers will have access to live broadcasts of all 18 races on the INDYCAR calendar, including the 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge on May 24 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. SiriusXM will also air qualifying and practice sessions throughout the season.

Beyond race broadcasts, SiriusXM will offer weekly INDYCAR-focused programming. A new season of "Brick-by-Brick," hosted by Jack Arute and 2013 Indianapolis 500 champion Tony Kanaan, airs Wednesdays at 5pm ET on INDYCAR Nation and is available on demand via the app.

Fans can also listen to the podcast "Off Track with Hinch & Rossi," hosted by James Hinchcliffe and Alexander Rossi. New episodes debut weekly on the SiriusXM app and major podcast platforms, and will also air on race days on INDYCAR Nation.

In addition to NTT INDYCAR SERIES events, SiriusXM will air races from INDY NXT by Firestone throughout the season. The development series showcases emerging open-wheel drivers, many of whom have advanced to the INDYCAR ranks.

Jim Lyke Returns to SBS as AIRE Executive VP

Jim Lyke

Spanish Broadcasting System has appointed Jim Lyke as Executive Vice President of Network Radio and National Digital Sales for AIRE Radio Networks, marking his return to the company nearly a year after departing for a role at Nueva Network.

Lyke previously served as Senior Vice President of Network Audio Sales at SBS from November 2018 until March 2025. In his new role, he will oversee all network and national digital revenue operations for AIRE Radio Networks. His responsibilities include leading integrated national revenue strategy, driving agency development, strengthening advertiser relationships.

He will also co-lead the Network division alongside Carolina Patino, Executive Vice President of Operations, aligning revenue strategy with operational execution to optimize performance and expand the network's national footprint.

Lyke brings more than 20 years of experience in Hispanic media sales. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President at Nueva Network. His previous roles include executive leadership positions at Entravision Communications, where he was Executive Vice President of Network Audio and Integrated Marketing Solutions, as well as earlier positions with ABC Radio Networks and Citadel Media focused on Hispanic sales.

SBS Chairman and CEO Raul Alarcon Jr. said Lyke's return represents "a powerful step forward" for AIRE Radio Networks, citing his experience in national audio and digital strategy as the company continues to expand its national reach and invest in digital growth.

Report: Black Buying Power to Top $2.1 Trillion in 2026

Katz Radio Group

Black Americans now account for 49.2 million people, or 14.4% of the U.S. population, and their economic influence continues to grow, according to a new analysis from the Katz Radio Insights & Analytics team.

The report, The Importance of the Black American Consumer 2026, highlights that the Black population has increased 24% since 2005 and is projected to grow another 35.7% by 2060, even as the non-ethnic White population declines. The median age of Black Americans is 33.7, younger than the total U.S. median of 39.2, underscoring the group's long-term consumer potential.

Buying power among Black consumers has surged 71% from 2010 to 2021 and is projected to reach $2.10 trillion by 2026. The study also finds strong financial momentum, with 24% reporting they are financially better off than a year ago and 46% expecting further improvement in the year ahead.

Socioeconomic gains are evident across multiple categories. The number of Black Americans 18+ with a net worth of $500,000 or more rose 70% over the past five years, outpacing total U.S. growth. Black-owned businesses increased 61.3% between 2018 and 2023, while higher-income households and high-value homeownership segments posted substantial gains.

The report details strong consumer engagement across travel, automotive, fashion, sports and technology categories, as well as high intent for major life events such as returning to school, leasing vehicles and purchasing homes. It also notes that 72% of general market consumers say they follow trends first seen in Black culture.

From a media standpoint, Black Americans are described as avid consumers, spending more than 81 hours per week with media -- 17% more than the general population. AM/FM radio plays a central role, reaching 86% of Black adults weekly and averaging more than nine hours of listening per week. Within the audio universe, radio leads in ad-supported reach across key demographics.

Trust is also a differentiator. The Katz Media Trust study cited in the analysis finds radio earns the highest trust among Black adults at 81.6%, while nearly 40% express mistrust in social media platforms. Additionally, 78% say radio is part of their daily routine and 83% believe their station cares about their community.

Katz concludes that marketers who invest in culturally relevant, community-focused advertising -- particularly through radio -- are positioned to build brand loyalty and capture share within one of the fastest-growing and most influential consumer segments in the country.

Download the entire report here.

iHeartRadio Named Media Partner of iFlag

iFlag and iHeartRadio

The International Flag League (iFlag), formerly known as USA Flag and billed as the world's largest flag football tournament organization, has named iHeartRadio as its official media partner.

Under the agreement, iFlag will work with iHeartRadio and its parent company iHeartMedia on a cross-marketing collaboration designed to expand awareness of the league, its tournaments and athlete recruitment efforts. Promotions will run nationally across iHeartMedia's broadcast radio stations, podcasts, digital platforms and social channels.

Michael Biondo, President of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships for iHeartMedia, said the partnership reflects the company's support of emerging sports and their communities. He said combining iFlag's growth with iHeart's distribution network creates new opportunities for athletes, fans and brands to engage with the sport.

Charles Davis, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of the International Flag League, called the agreement a milestone for both the league and the broader sport of flag football. He said the collaboration will help elevate athletes, connect with new audiences and further develop a global platform centered on competition and inclusion.

As part of the deal, iHeartRadio will gain access to league-produced content and year-round promotional opportunities tied to tournaments, athletes and community events. The companies said the partnership positions iHeart to reach the growing audience for flag football, which has emerged as one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide.

BIA, AdApt Partner on AI Sales Platform

AdApt and BIA Advisory Services

BIA Advisory Services and AdApt Media Sales have announced a strategic partnership to integrate local advertising market data into sales technology used by media organizations.

Under the agreement, AdApt will incorporate BIA's market-specific revenue forecasts into its AI-enabled sales platform. The combined offering is designed to give local broadcasters and other media companies direct access to market-level insights within their existing sales workflows, supporting planning efforts and advertiser conversations.

Dave Buonfiglio, Partner at AdApt Media Sales, said the collaboration comes as local media sales faces significant change. He described the partnership as bringing together established market intelligence and modern sales execution tools to support a more data-driven advertising environment.

BIA provides media and business category forecasts along with analysis of local advertising markets. Its data is used by media owners, advertisers, and investors to evaluate revenue trends and category performance. Through the integration, BIA's market intelligence will be embedded within AdApt's platform for use by local media sales teams.

Rick Ducey, Managing Director of BIA Advisory Services, said local sellers are operating in an increasingly complex advertising landscape. He noted that incorporating market data directly into sales platforms is intended to make it easier for teams to assess market trends and dynamics as part of their day-to-day work.

The companies will also co-host a podcast episode exploring how AI-powered sales tools combined with local market data can assist media sellers in prospecting and advertiser engagement. The episode will be released the week of March 16 on BIA's "Leading Local Insights" podcast channel.

The integrated solution is now available to AdApt Media Sales clients.

FCC Seeks Comment on Sports Broadcasting Landscape

Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

The Federal Communications Commission's Media Bureau has opened a new proceeding to examine the evolving sports broadcasting marketplace, citing concerns about consumer access and the impact on local television stations.

In a Public Notice released February 25, the Bureau is seeking public comment on how recent changes in the distribution of live sports programming are affecting viewers and broadcasters. Comments are due March 27, 2026, with reply comments due April 13.

For decades, the FCC noted, Americans could turn on their televisions and watch major sporting events for free over-the-air. While many games remain available on broadcast TV, the agency said there has been a significant shift toward streaming platforms and subscription services. That shift has increased the number of viewing options but also fragmented distribution, making it more difficult and potentially more expensive for fans to follow their teams.

The Bureau highlighted the historic relationship between broadcast television and live sports, dating back to a 1939 NBC telecast of a college baseball game. Over time, sports programming helped fuel television's growth, while broadcast revenues supported local station operations, including news and public affairs programming.

Today, however, major leagues have entered into multibillion-dollar media rights agreements with a wide range of national distributors, including broadcast networks, cable channels and streaming platforms. The notice points to the National Football League's current agreements with multiple companies, which collectively are valued at more than $100 billion over their terms. Other leagues and college conferences have similarly lucrative national deals.

The FCC is asking how these marketplace developments affect broadcasters' ability to obtain sports rights and whether fragmentation has made it harder for consumers to watch nationally televised and local games on free broadcast television. The agency also is seeking input on the types of rights included in current agreements, the prevalence of exclusive streaming deals and the cost implications for viewers.

In addition, the Bureau is examining whether sports rights contracts could conflict with or impede local broadcasters' public interest obligations, including the provision of local news, emergency information and other community-focused programming. The FCC is also asking what role, if any, it should play in ensuring continued consumer access to live sports through free over-the-air television.

The proceeding will be treated as "permit-but-disclose," allowing for ex parte presentations subject to the Commission's disclosure rules.

In response to the Public Notice, the National Association of Broadcasters expressed support for the review.

"NAB thanks Chairman Carr for his leadership in examining the rapid changes in the sports broadcasting marketplace and what they mean for American viewers and local communities," said NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt in a statement.

LeGeyt said consumer access to premier games on free, over-the-air television has long been central to the sports fan experience. As distribution becomes more fragmented across streaming services and paywalls, he said, fans face higher costs and confusion in following their teams.

He added that local broadcasters provide the widest reach for live events and argued that, as the FCC evaluates marketplace trends, it should ensure local stations have a fair opportunity to compete for premium sports rights. That includes modernizing ownership restrictions that NAB says limit broadcasters' ability to achieve scale in today's media environment.

Black Effect Fest to Return to Atlanta on April 25

Black Effect Podcast Festival

iHeartMedia and Charlamagne Tha God have announced the return of the Black Effect Podcast Festival, set for April 25 from noon to 8pm ET at Pullman Yards in Atlanta.

Now in its fourth year, the event will bring together Black podcasters, creators and fans for a full day of live podcast tapings, panel discussions and networking opportunities. Charlamagne Tha God will host the festival alongside DJ Envy of The Breakfast Club and Loren LoRosa, host of "The Latest with Loren LoRosa Podcast."

"Each year we return to Atlanta with purpose and intention to amplify storytelling, champion community, and celebrate excellence in podcasting with thousands of our cousins from around the world," said Charlamagne Tha God.

The festival will feature panels including "AI: The Evolution and The Future," "The Gen-Z Movement," and discussions focused on audio and media development. Scheduled participants include Carlos King, host of "Reality With The King," and finance expert Ian Dunlap, among others.

Dollie S. Bishop, President of The Black Effect Podcast Network, said the event aims to create space for creators to inspire, connect and shape culture. "From conversations on AI and investing to the future of audio, we're bringing the culture together for connection, innovation and a few surprises," she said.

In addition to live show tapings, the event will offer interactive experiences such as the "Pitch Your Podcast" booth and The Black Effect Marketplace, featuring merchandise from Black-owned businesses and local food vendors.

Launched in September 2020, The Black Effect Podcast Network has debuted more than 60 shows and produced 47 live events, spotlighting voices across social justice, pop culture, sports, mental health and comedy.

Tickets go on sale March 12 at 12pm ET at blackeffect.com/podcastfestival.

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