Top Radio News

Townsquare Q3 Revenue Rises 3.9%, Suspends Dividend

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, November 4, 2026 | 12:16pm CT

Townsquare Media

Townsquare Media reported third-quarter net revenue of $110.9 million, up 3.9% from $106.8 million a year earlier, as digital advertising growth and political spending offset weakness in its subscription digital marketing business. The company also announced it is suspending its quarterly dividend to preserve approximately $14 million annually.

Adjusted EBITDA increased 2.7% to $22.6 million from $22.0 million. Townsquare narrowed its net loss to $4.0 million, or 23 cents per diluted share, compared with a loss of $5.5 million a year earlier. Adjusted net income rose to $2.3 million from $855,000, with adjusted earnings of 12 cents per diluted share.

Digital Advertising revenue, generated by Townsquare Ignite, increased 12.7% to $45.3 million from $40.2 million. CEO Bill Wilson said growth accelerated for the third consecutive quarter, led by a 22.5% increase in programmatic revenue.

"Our Media Partnerships business now serves 18 partners and extends our digital programmatic advertising platform to 122 markets across the United States, and we expect Media Partnerships revenue to more than double in 2026," said Wilson.

Townsquare Interactive's subscription digital marketing revenue declined 8.5% to $17.1 million from $18.6 million, reflecting reduced sales velocity and lower sales staffing. The segment maintained a 36% profit margin, but Wilson said it would not return to sequential revenue growth in the fourth quarter as previously projected.

Combined digital revenue increased 6.0% to $62.4 million. Broadcast Advertising revenue edged up 0.4% to $47.2 million from $47.0 million. Excluding political advertising, broadcast revenue fell 5.2% to $44.4 million. Total political revenue reached $2.9 million, compared with $200,000 in the prior-year quarter.

Excluding political advertising, companywide revenue increased 1.4%, while Adjusted EBITDA declined 7.9% to $20.1 million.

"Our local clients continue to feel pressure from higher operating costs and interest rates, and they are scrutinizing every marketing dollar, particularly those spent on traditional media," Wilson said. He added that broadcast declines excluding political are expected to deepen in the fourth quarter, partly because political advertising crowds out other inventory.

Wilson cited those challenges and higher interest costs on floating-rate debt in explaining the dividend suspension. "We do not believe that the market is ascribing value to the dividend and we believe this cash can generate greater value for shareholders elsewhere," he said. The previously declared dividend of 20 cents per share was paid November 2.

For the first nine months of 2026, revenue increased 0.7% to $323.1 million from $320.9 million. Adjusted EBITDA declined 4.2% to $63.8 million, while the net loss widened to $42.8 million from $5.0 million, primarily reflecting increased noncash impairment charges. Digital businesses represented 57% of year-to-date revenue.

Townsquare ended September with $4.6 million in cash and $467.5 million in outstanding debt.

For the fourth quarter, the company projects revenue of $107 million to $109 million and Adjusted EBITDA of $23 million to $25 million. Full-year guidance calls for revenue of $430 million to $432 million and Adjusted EBITDA of $87 million to $89 million.

Xperi Q3 Revenue Rises 2.2%, AutoStage Expands Reach

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, November 4, 2026 | 4:43pm CT

Xperi

Xperi reported third-quarter revenue of $114 million, up 2.2% from $111.6 million a year earlier, as growth in advertising and related revenue helped double its Media Platform revenue. The company also expanded its DTS AutoStage broadcaster services and reported additional automotive commitments for HD Radio.

The company narrowed its net loss to $5.2 million, or 11 cents per diluted share, from $6.1 million, or 13 cents per share, a year earlier. Operating income totaled $1.8 million, compared with an operating loss of $1.4 million.

Adjusted EBITDA was $23 million, compared with $23.1 million in the prior-year quarter, with the margin declining to 20.2% from 20.7%. Non-GAAP net income fell to $11.7 million, or 24 cents per diluted share, from $12.8 million, or 28 cents per share.

For broadcasters, Xperi expanded the DTS AutoStage Broadcaster Portal's coverage from 300 to 550 U.S. metropolitan areas and entered into data monetization agreements with eight additional broadcasters. Revenue from the portal is classified as advertising-related revenue within Media Platform.

The company said more than 18 million vehicles equipped with DTS AutoStage have shipped across 13 automotive brands, extending the platform's coverage to more than 150 countries.

HD Radio also secured a multiyear program with a large Asian Tier 1 supplier serving multiple automakers in Japan and North America. Xperi reported expanded HD Radio availability through new vehicle model launches from Hyundai, Kia, Volkswagen, Toyota, Honda and Subaru.

Advertising and related revenue grew approximately 280% during the quarter and 90% through the first nine months of 2026. TiVo One monthly active users reached 6.8 million, up 40% year over year, while its average revenue per user increased 14% sequentially to $7.65.

"As expected, our success in building our TiVo One footprint has begun to drive substantial growth in advertising and related revenue," said Xperi CEO Jon Kirchner.

Xperi also announced that European electronics retailer MediaMarktSaturn selected TiVo OS for its private-label PEAQ televisions, bringing the platform to 11 television manufacturer design partnerships.

"Given the strong strategic execution year-to-date, we are pleased to raise our full-year outlook range for adjusted EBITDA margin and operating cash flow," Kirchner said.

The company narrowed its 2026 revenue forecast to $450 million-$462 million from $440 million-$470 million. It raised its adjusted EBITDA margin outlook to 19%-21% from 17%-19% and its operating cash flow forecast to $20 million-$30 million from $15 million-$25 million.

Separately, Chief Financial Officer Robert Andersen plans to retire in 2027. He will remain in his current role until a successor joins the company.

Audio, Video Podcasts Serve Different Listener Needs

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, November 4, 2026 | 11:54am CT

Edison Research at SSRS

Audio and video podcasts play complementary roles in consumers' routines, with 70% of monthly podcast consumers reporting that they both listened to audio-only podcasts and watched video podcasts in the past month, according to new research from Edison Research at SSRS, SiriusXM Media and Publicis Media.

"The Video Podcast Consumer Report" examines how audiences move between formats and what those choices mean for advertisers. The findings suggest that listening and watching serve different needs, with audio preferred during activities and video finding a role during leisure time.

Among respondents who used both formats in the past month, 68% chose audio-only listening while in the car, 54% while working and 51% while exercising. Fifty-five percent chose to just listen when on the go.

Audio also fit more easily into daily routines. Within that same group, 53% said podcasts they only listen to fit more easily into their schedules, while 52% said they were easier to access on a mobile device.

Video offered advantages for attention and connection. Among consumers of both formats, 55% said podcasts they watch are easier to pay attention to, and 51% chose active viewing when they wanted to connect with a host. Seventy-six percent reported watching most often at home.

The two audiences also shared characteristics relevant to advertisers. Audio and video podcast consumers each had a median age of 40, and 75% of each group said they were likely to recall ads.

Social media clips provided another route to podcast discovery. Among monthly podcast consumers, 77% reported encountering podcast clips on social media, and 65% said they had listened to or watched a full podcast after seeing a short clip.

The report draws on an online survey of more than 2,000 monthly podcast consumers ages 13 and older across a national U.S. sample, conducted in the second quarter of 2026. Results were weighted to match monthly podcast consumer demographics established by The Infinite Dial 2026.

Chicago's 93.9 LITE FM Sets Christmas Flip for Nov. 5

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, November 4, 2026 | 12:11pm CT

WLIT (93.9 LITE FM) in Chicago

iHeartMedia's WLIT (93.9 LITE FM) in Chicago will begin around-the-clock holiday music November 5 at 3pm, marking its 26th year as Chicago's Christmas station.

Station personalities Melissa Forman, Producer Jim, Robin Rock and Mick Lee, along with Edison the Reindeer, will host a two-hour commercial-free kickoff broadcast live from the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago.

The seasonal programming will feature contemporary holiday recordings alongside classic Christmas hits.

"For more than two decades, listeners have trusted iHeartMedia Chicago's 93.9 LITE FM to provide the soundtrack to their holiday season," said Program Director and Afternoon Host Mick Lee. "Celebrating our 26th year as Chicago's Christmas station is a testament to the connection we've built with our audience, and we're excited to continue spreading the joy, warmth and spirit of the season throughout Chicagoland."

CT40 Sets Holiday Specials With Fitz, Lauren Alaina

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, November 4, 2026 | 11:59am CT

Country Top 40 with Fitz

"Country Top 40 with Fitz" and syndication partner Skyview Networks have announced two holiday specials, including a Christmas program co-hosted by country artist Lauren Alaina and a countdown of the biggest country songs of 2026.

"Deck the Hits with Lauren and Fitz" will be available for the weekend of December 19-20, with an option to air December 24-25. Alaina and Fitz will feature holiday classics from country artists and share their own seasonal traditions.

"Year of Hits with Fitz: The Top 40 Songs of 2026" will follow January 2-3, 2027, with optional early broadcasts December 31 or January 1.

"The holidays are CT40 at its best," said Fitz. "Deck the Hits brings the classics and the stories behind them, and Year of Hits sends the year out the way this countdown always does, with the songs that defined it. Having Lauren along makes it a weekend our affiliates and their listeners are going to remember."

Alaina joins the Christmas special following her fourth No. 1 country song, "All My Exes" with Chase Matthew, which topped the Mediabase country chart in October.

"Fitz and Lauren are the perfect duo to get affiliates and their listeners into the holiday spirit," said Skyview Networks Chief Operating Officer Andrew Kalb. "Lauren is coming off a No. 1 country radio hit and paired with the format's long-running countdown, gives CT40 affiliates two specials with real momentum behind them as we close out another strong year."

The specials are available to current and prospective affiliates on a first-come, first-served basis in open markets. Stations can visit here for information.

MaxxKonnect Acquires FCCInfo.com, Keeps Searches Free

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, November 4, 2026 | 12:22pm CT

MaxxKonnect

The MaxxKonnect Group has acquired FCCInfo.com from Cavell, Mertz & Associates, assuming ownership and operation of the FCC database and mapping service used by broadcast engineers, consultants and station operators. Financial terms were not disclosed.

MaxxKonnect plans to maintain the site's existing services while updating its underlying software and evaluating additional capabilities. All current search services will remain free. The company may introduce optional premium features but said it has no plans to put existing free tools behind a paywall.

Developed by Cavell Mertz and made publicly available in 2002, FCCInfo.com provides searchable access to FCC broadcast, auxiliary, microwave, land mobile and antenna structure records. Its Google Earth integration allows users to map station facilities, microwave paths and registered antenna structures.

"FCCInfo is an essential tool for a lot of people in broadcasting, including our own engineering staff," said MaxxKonnect Group President and CEO Josh Bohn. "We didn't acquire it to change what people like about it. Our first priority is to make sure it continues to operate reliably."

Bohn said the company intends to modernize the technology and develop additional capabilities, emphasizing that "the services people have been using for free will stay free."

Cavell Mertz will remain associated with FCCInfo.com in an advisory capacity, providing engineering expertise during the ownership transition.

"We're pleased that MaxxKonnect is taking responsibility for the service and has committed to keeping its existing resources available to the industry," said Gary Cavell. "Their engineering and software capabilities provide a good foundation for maintaining and improving the platform, and we look forward to continuing to work with them."

The service joins MaxxKonnect's broadcast engineering, consulting, connectivity and monitoring operations, which include its MonitorMaxx products.

Erick Erickson Launches Thanksgiving Meal Drive

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, November 4, 2026 | 3:12pm CT

Erick Erickson

"The Erick Erickson Show" has launched its annual Thanksgiving meal campaign with nonprofit Hungry For A Day, encouraging listeners nationwide to fund holiday dinners for families in need.

The syndicated program raised more than $265,000 during last year's drive. This year's campaign will run through Thanksgiving in support of Hungry For A Day's goal of feeding 75,000 people nationwide.

Each $40 contribution provides a ready-to-eat holiday meal for a family of four. Dinners include turkey or smoked ham, side dishes, rolls and pie, distributed through local food banks, shelters and nonprofit partners. According to the campaign, all donations go toward meals, with administrative expenses covered separately.

"Last year our listeners put food on the table for thousands of families, and that generosity still moves me," said host Erick Erickson. "This isn't about politics; it's about compassion, faith, and stepping up for our neighbors."

Hungry For A Day works with local organizations to reach recipients, including families without the resources to prepare a holiday dinner.

Erickson's show airs live weekdays from noon-3pm ET and will promote the campaign on air through Thanksgiving. Donations and additional information are available here.

Fred Jacobs to Step Down as Jacobs Media President

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, November 4, 2026 | 0:02am CT

Fred Jacobs

Jacobs Media founder and President Fred Jacobs will step down at the end of 2026, with his brother, Paul Jacobs, succeeding him. Fred will become Chairman and remain involved in research, select client work and other areas of the business.

"I've been thinking about this for a couple of years now, and I'm ready for a change," said Fred Jacobs. "I appreciate all the opportunities I've had over the years, and the people, organizations, and companies we've worked for and collaborated with."

Under Paul's leadership, Jacobs Media will emphasize overall client strategy, digital transformation and digital revenue development. Director of Digital Revenue Chris Brunt and Bill Jacobs will remain in their current roles, with additional changes still being developed.

"The core of the company will remain intact, but true to the Jacobs Media tradition, we'll be making some changes to ensure we're aligned with client and industry needs," said Paul Jacobs. "Our primary focus will be helping clients with their overall strategies, including digital transformation and building profitable digital revenue programs."

The company will continue its Techsurveys for commercial, public and Christian music radio, with Fred participating in their design and implementation. Registration for Techsurvey 2027, conducted in collaboration with Inside Radio, opens this week. The research will field in January and February and mark the company's 22nd survey of commercial radio listeners.

Fred's work at Jacobs Media has spanned the development of the Classic Rock format and initiatives focused on radio's adoption of technology. Those efforts include the Techsurveys, mobile app developer jacapps, launched in 2008, the DASH Conferences and executive tours of CES in Las Vegas.

He was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018 and received the NAB National Radio Award alongside Paul in 2022.

"Starting next year, my day-to-day life will change, but I'll still be reading the trades, checking the ratings, offering suggestions to Paul, talking strategy with select clients, giving the occasional speech or presentation, and working on the Techsurveys," Fred said. "But after nearly 4 million miles on Delta (mostly domestic), it's time."

"Fred Jacobs has spent more than four decades helping radio innovate, evolve and thrive. His impact on our industry is extraordinary. Congratulations to Fred on his next chapter and to Paul Jacobs as he takes the helm of Jacobs Media," said NAB President and CEO Curtis LeGeyt.

Civic Media's IA, IL Station Deals Total $3.3 Million

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | 10:06pm CT

Civic Media

Civic Media's planned acquisition of 16 radio signals in Iowa and Illinois carries a combined purchase price of $3.3 million, according to asset purchase agreements filed with the FCC. Financial terms were not disclosed when the transactions were announced in October.

Under agreements dated October 8, Civic Media will pay $3.2 million for Titan Broadcasting's KGRS-FM in Burlington, IA, and KBKB-FM in Fort Madison, IA. A separate agreement provides $100,000 for the stations and translators owned by Pritchard Broadcasting Corp. and Galesburg Broadcasting Company, split equally between the two sellers.

The Titan purchase will be financed through a $3.2 million seller note bearing 6% annual interest over 15 years. Payments will be interest-only for the first year, followed by monthly principal and interest payments over the remaining 14 years, with no balloon payment. The Pritchard/Galesburg purchase price is payable in cash at closing. Both prices are subject to prorations and adjustments.

The agreements also reference a separate acquisition of River Park Place Realty LLC, which owns a studio and office condominium in Burlington. The consideration for that transaction is not specified in the station APAs.

The Iowa signals include KGRS-FM (107.3), KBKB-FM (101.7), KBKB-AM (1360), KBUR-AM (1490), KKMI-FM (93.5), KDMG-FM (103.1) and KHDK-FM (97.3), along with translators K283CK (104.5) and K257GC (99.3).

In Illinois, the acquisition includes WQKQ-FM (92.1), WAAG-FM (94.9), WLSR-FM (92.7), WGIL-AM (1400), WKAY-FM (105.3) and WZIE-FM (106.1), plus translator W229BO (93.7).

The acquisitions would expand Wisconsin-based Civic Media into two additional states, joining its existing operations in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan. The company focuses on local and regional news, talk programming and community engagement.

The agreements provide for time brokerage arrangements and require FCC approval before the station acquisitions can close. Kalil & Co. is serving as the exclusive broker.

Zimmer Names Mike Stern Director of Programming

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | 4:11pm CT

Mike Stern

Zimmer Communications has named Mike Stern Director of Programming, effective November 16. The veteran programmer joins the company after 13 years as a consultant at Jacobs Media, where his clients included Zimmer for more than a decade. Stern will oversee programming, music and on-air strategy across Zimmer's radio outlets, working alongside Corporate Operations Director Trevor Morgan and General Manager Carla Leible.

"I couldn't be more excited about the opportunity to join Zimmer Communications," said Stern. "I've consulted them for more than a decade, so I know it is a first class radio operation that still believes in being local and connecting with listeners. I'd like to thank Carla Leible and Trevor Morgan for making this possible."

Morgan said Stern's work as a consultant has already made an impact on the company's stations. "Mike has a genuine passion for creating great radio," said Morgan. "His creativity, organization, and keen ear for compelling content have already made a tremendous impact on the stations he's worked with through Jacobs Media."

Leible said Stern will help strengthen the company's stations and develop its talent as Zimmer grows. "He understands our company, our culture, and our commitment to local radio," she said. "As Zimmer continues to grow, Mike will play an important role in strengthening our stations, developing our talent, and positioning us for continued success."

At Jacobs Media, Stern consulted more than 50 stations, leading audience research, developing cross-platform promotions and coaching air talent on programming and digital content.

"This ends Mike's third stint with Jacobs Media, and we couldn't be happier for him," said company President Fred Jacobs. "Zimmer is a wonderful company and is a great fit for him. We appreciate Mike's contributions to our company over the years."

Stern previously programmed stations in Chicago, Denver, Milwaukee, Detroit, Las Vegas and Dayton. As Vice President of Programming for Emmis Communications in Chicago, he oversaw Alternative WKQX (Q101) and Classic Rock WLUP (The Loop).

Voiceover Talent Steve 'Zeus' Stewart Dies at 59

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | 2:58pm CT

Steve ''Zeus'' Stewart

Steve "Zeus" Stewart, a voiceover talent whose work spanned radio imaging, television networks and sports promotions, died October 26 at age 59, according to his obituary. He lived in Little River, SC. A cause of death was not disclosed.

Born Steven Curran Stewart in Greensboro, NC, he grew up in Raleigh and graduated from the North Carolina School of Broadcasting. He worked as a radio DJ, including a stop in Cheraw, SC, before building an international voiceover career through his company, "Zeus The Voice."

A SAG-AFTRA member, Stewart's credits included FOX, FOX Sports, MSNBC, The Weather Channel, MLB Network, TNT, Discovery Channel and Smithsonian. His voice also appeared in work for the Indianapolis Colts, Colorado State University Rams and a Cotton Bowl promotion.

Radio colleagues remembered both his distinctive delivery and the humor and friendship he brought to recording sessions.

"You were always available not just for some liners but just to talk! You will be missed!" John Runyan wrote on Stewart's Facebook page.

Sammy Lee recalled working with Stewart on station imaging at Z95.3.

"He was always fun to work with," Lee wrote. "I saved a lot of the banter he would send me while doing the voice work. Always made me laugh."

Beyond broadcasting, Stewart enjoyed singing, songwriting and playing guitar, and lent his voice to church programs. His obituary also recalled his love of animals, boating and time with family.

Stewart was preceded in death by his wife of 31 years, Peggy Hamden Stewart, who died in 2024. They met while he was working as a DJ in Cheraw. Survivors include his sister, Kerri Stewart Hurley; stepchildren Mac Estridge, Ashton Estridge and Donna Green; and extended family.

A private family celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Pillar Media Adds Julia Dietrich as Digital Strategist

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | 10:57am CT

Julia Dietrich

Pillar Media has named Julia Dietrich Digital Strategist for its STAR Digital Strategies team, effective November 3. Based at the WAWZ (STAR 99.1) office in New Jersey, she will manage digital marketing campaigns, website development and search engine optimization for clients. Dietrich previously held healthcare marketing positions, including roles at Aeroflow Health and Discovery Senior Living.

"I'm excited and grateful to be joining Pillar Media and STAR Digital Strategies," said Dietrich. "It's a privilege to be part of a team whose work supports a greater mission, and I'm looking forward to contributing in a meaningful way."

Pillar Media Director of Digital Sales Dan Watts said Dietrich's experience will support the division's continued expansion.

"Her digital marketing experience will help us build on the tremendous growth we've experienced in our first 14 months and continue serving our clients well," said Watts. "Just as importantly, her longtime connection as a STAR 99.1 listener means she already understands the heart behind our ministry. She's a wonderful fit for our team."

K-Love Closes Purchase of KNTI-FM in Lakeport, CA

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | 11:04am CT

K-Love

Bicoastal Media has closed on the sale of KNTI-FM in Lakeport, CA, to K-Love, Inc. Financial terms were not disclosed. Kalil & Co. served as the exclusive broker for the transaction. KNTI broadcasts at 99.5 MHz with 2.45 kW of power and an antenna height above average terrain of 1,896 feet.

Oregon-based Bicoastal Media, headed by Mike Wilson, owns and operates radio stations in 13 markets across Northern California, Oregon and Washington. K-Love, Inc. is a Tennessee-based nonprofit led by CEO Tom Stultz. The organization owns or operates radio stations in all 50 states.

Kalil & Co. was the exclusive broker for this transaction.

Benne Acquires KMMO From Missouri Valley Broadcasting

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, November 3, 2026 | 10:18pm CT

KMMO-AM & FM in Marshall-Sedalia, MO

Benne Media has acquired KMMO-AM & FM in the Marshall-Sedalia, MO area from Missouri Valley Broadcasting, ending more than 40 years of ownership by the seller. The sale closed November 2, and the ownership transition is underway. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Denny Benne's company also operates stations in Sedalia, Warrensburg, Lake of the Ozarks and other Missouri communities. Benne said he hopes to retain KMMO's current programming while adding enhancements for listeners.

John Wilson, who began operating KMMO in 1985, said the time had come to turn over leadership and expressed confidence in Benne's ability to continue the station's community service.

Benne has worked in radio for 44 years and received the Missouri Broadcasters Association's Distinguished Broadcaster Award in 2026.

Wilson thanked listeners and community members for their support over the past four decades and said he believes Benne Media will continue KMMO's tradition of service.

NAB Seeks FCC Clarification on FM Digital Power Limits

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, November 2, 2026 | 3:55pm CT

National Association of Broadcasters (NAB)

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), Xperi and the NRSC are urging the FCC to clarify its interpretation of FM digital power limits, arguing that an apparent change in 2025 has restricted some stations' ability to optimize their operations.

In a November 2 ex parte filing in MB Docket No. 22-405, NAB detailed an October 29 meeting with Media Bureau staff concerning whether hybrid FM digital broadcasts are strictly limited to a total maximum power of -10 dBc under Section 73.404(f) of the Commission's rules.

NAB and Xperi reviewed the FCC's historical interpretation of the rule and asked the Bureau to return to an approach reflected in numerous station-specific letters issued before 2025 granting requests for increased digital power.

The association characterized the more recent interpretation as a "seeming change in 2025 that limits the ability of certain digital radio stations to optimize operations."

Meeting participants included Xperi's Jeff Detweiler and Paul Peyla, Ashruf El-Dinary representing the National Radio Systems Committee, and NAB's David Layer and Associate General Counsel Larry Walke. They met with the Media Bureau's Albert Shuldiner, James Bradshaw and Priscilla Lee.

Layer also updated FCC staff on discussions among NAB, Xperi and aviation stakeholders studying the impact of HD Radio signals on the Aeronautical Radio Navigation Spectrum.

According to the filing, aviation stakeholders have told NAB that compatibility testing is complete. NAB said it expects another meeting with those stakeholders within the next month to discuss their findings.

NYSBA Elects Chris Oliviero Chair for 2027

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, November 2, 2026 | 5:05pm CT

Chris Oliviero

The New York State Broadcasters Association (NYSBA) has elected Audacy Chief Business Officer and New York Market President Chris Oliviero as Chair of its Board of Directors for 2027. The association announced its new officers and directors following its annual Fall Meeting in New York City.

Joining Oliviero on the Executive Committee are Seven Mountains Media Owner and CEO Kristin Cantrell as Vice Chair, Radio; WPIX-TV New York Vice President and General Manager Chris McDonnell as Vice Chair, Television; WNYT-TV and WNYA-TV Albany Vice President and General Manager Jon Hitchcock as Treasurer; and iHeartMedia President of Upstate New York and Mid-Atlantic Robert Morgan as Secretary.

Oliviero succeeds WBBZ-TV Vice President and General Manager Chris Musial, who concludes his term as Chair but will remain on the Board of Directors.

NYSBA also welcomed four new directors: Pamal Broadcasting Chief Operating Officer Chuck Benfer; WDKX-FM Co-Owner Andria Langston; Nexstar Media Group Senior Vice President and Regional Manager Ron Romines; and Salem Media Group General Manager for the New York and Philadelphia markets Laura Sheaffer.

Returning board members include Alan Bishop, Amy Collins, David Feinblatt, Marilu Galvez, Johnny Green Jr., Lew Leone, Eric Lerner, Chad Lopez, Katelin Tinley, Bernie Weiss and Roberto Yanez.

Marc Jaromin of Roundtable Media and Chet Osadchey of the Buffalo Bills will continue as Associate Board Members.

The association also recognized departing directors Ed Levine, LeAnne Markins, Theresa Underwood, Maire Mason and Jason Finkelberg for their service to New York's broadcasting industry.

"This is an exceptional team," said NYSBA President and Executive Director Heidi Raphael. "Chris Oliviero brings vision and deep market leadership to the Chair, and our board reflects the full strength of broadcasting across New York."

Raphael also thanked Musial for his leadership and the departing directors for their contributions, adding that the association is positioned to serve its members and communities throughout 2027.

Coleman Insights Names Barsoian to Validate Support Role

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, November 2, 2026 | 3:34pm CT

Bethany Barsoian

Coleman Insights has named Bethany Barsoian Customer Success Manager for Validate, its attribution platform that helps radio broadcasters measure advertising campaigns' impact on consumer behavior. Barsoian will serve as the primary contact for Validate subscribers, overseeing onboarding, training, technical support and ongoing education.

She will also collaborate with the platform's development and research teams to improve the customer experience and incorporate subscriber feedback.

"Validate is an important part of our commitment to helping broadcasters demonstrate the effectiveness of radio advertising," said Coleman Insights President Warren Kurtzman. "As our subscriber base grows, providing exceptional service and helping customers get the most out of the platform is essential. Bethany will play a critical role in making that happen."

Barsoian's background spans radio, television and digital advertising. She previously supported sales organizations at Cumulus Media in Providence and USA TODAY Co., and consulted with clients at Research Director, Inc.

"I'm excited to join Coleman Insights and help broadcasters turn Validate's powerful attribution data into meaningful results for their advertisers," said Barsoian. "My goal is to make the platform as accessible and valuable as possible for every customer, while ensuring their feedback helps shape its future."