New York City may have dubbed itself the Media Capital of the World, but when the Radio Wayne Awards finalists land in the Big Apple next week, they’re bringing their hometowns with them. See, the best radio sales leaders know the market isn’t just where you sell; it’s how.
In our October issue, Radio Ink asked the 2026 Radio Wayne DOS-GSM 21+ finalists what about their market’s character or personality shapes how they sell.
Here’s what they told us:
“The Atlantic City DMA is not just Atlantic City. It is all of the Southern Shore points, including Cape May. The dynamics of each of those areas differ considerably. In addition, we are evolving more and more away from a Summer Seasonal market to a more year-round consistent market. We still get a large bump in live-in population for May-October, but the shoulder months have expanded as well. With that bump, we position the market as a large and viable opportunity to reach the same customers you wish to reach in the major markets around us but for a considerably more favorable investment.”
“Baltimore is an exceptionally local market-more so than most-yet it is strategically nestled among the major markets of the East Coast and serves as steward to the beautiful Chesapeake Bay. Baltimore maintains an unmistakably close-knit identity and deeply proud character in everyday life, while simultaneously serving as an influential hub, in culture, education, medical and research, arts, music, sports, entertainment and of course… history.”
“Pittsburgh is a market with a very distinct personality. That culture has a big influence on how I sell and how I lead my team. I understand that Pittsburgh clients don’t want to feel like they are simply being sold a media solution. They want a partner who understands their business, their challenges, their customers, and the community they serve. I encourage my team to be curious, build genuine relationships, find creative solutions, and never be afraid to go after a big opportunity. What also makes Pittsburgh unique is the tremendous loyalty people have to their hometown, their teams, their neighborhoods, and their causes. I know how powerful those emotional connections can be.”
Curious about who said what? Every Radio Wayne finalist is in Radio Ink’s October issue, out now. Click HERE to subscribe today for as low as $3.33 per month. Then join us next Wednesday, October 21, at the Radio Wayne Awards at NAB Show New York to celebrate the best in sales.
