Headlines

Podcast ad revenue crossed $2.9 billion in 2025, while the broader audio category held steady growth, but new IAB/PwC data points to an AI-driven disruption in digital discovery that could reshape how audio advertising reaches listeners in the years ahead.

Total Media Group has reformatted Ironton, OH's WIRO from Conservative talker The Eagle to Star 106.7, filling the frequency with a blend of 80s and 90s hits alongside local news, weather, and sports, including Ironton High School and Ohio State athletic coverage.

(Charese Frugé) “I want my listeners to feel like I’m right there in their cubicle having a real conversation,” Cherise Richards says. “Whether it’s on the air, the text line, or social media, I just try to be a bright spot in their day.” That mindset defines her work at Rubber City Radio's WQMX.

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio's Airblazer Award goes to women redefining leadership in the industry, and this year, it's headed to Boston with Kennedy Elsey. The Karson & Kennedy co-host on Audacy's Mix 104.1 has been named the 11th recipient.

A federal bankruptcy judge has confirmed Cumulus Media's prepackaged reorganization plan, clearing the Atlanta-based radio group to restructure roughly $660 million in debt and emerge as a private company with Mary Berner remaining in the CEO role.

The Library of American Broadcasting Foundation has revealed its 2026 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts class, headlined by one of television's most beloved fictional radio hosts alongside some of the radio industry's real-life legends.

The San Francisco 49ers have entered into a multi-year partnership with Cumulus Media’s 104.5/680 The Sports Leader (KNBR-AM) in the Bay Area, continuing the duo's flagship deal of two decades. Greg Papa and Tim Ryan will continue to serve in the booth.

80s heritage brand Kelly 95.3 (KLLY) has returned to Bakersfield under local ownership following Connoisseur Media’s market exit in November, with the rebrand part of Frequency Broadcasting’s broader initiative to bolster its brand identity in the market.

Townsquare Media is extending the "white-label" division of its digital business arm to a digital advertising partnership with Kroenke Sports and Entertainment, expanding its Media Partnerships division into the Denver market through KSE’s radio assets.

The RAB is sounding the last call for audio creatives to submit their work for the 2026 Radio Mercury Awards. Friday, April 17, is the final deadline for radio pros and students to submit work across 17 categories plus Best of Show for the 35th annual contest.