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Melissa Rios Takes Reyna 103.1 FM To The Streets With LA’s First Live Mobile Morning Show

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 28, 2026 - Entravision has launched La Tiendita Mornings with Melissa Rios on Reyna 103.1 FM (KDLD) in Los Angeles. The weekday show airs 6:00–10:00 a.m. PT and is billed as LA’s first live mobile morning broadcast. Inspired by the corner stores where everyone knows your name, La Tiendita is designed as a daily gathering place for Latinas. “It’s more than a morning show. It is a seat at the table,” a release notes.

Melissa Rios, a radio and TV veteran with more than a decade of experience and a community of over one million followers, hosts the program. A wife and mother of three, she is known for her quick wit and honest style. “Authenticity isn’t just something I talk about. It’s something I’ve built my entire career,” she said. “In this new chapter, I’m excited to lead a show that will connect with Latinas like no other program can.”

The format splits the week: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from the Reyna studio; Tuesday and Thursday live from the streets visiting neighborhood cafes, local businesses, and hidden gems across LA. “La Tiendita doesn’t wait for listeners to come to us,” said Isabel Gonzalez, Interim Head of Programming. Eduardo Maytorena, President of Audio at Entravision, added that Melissa’s authenticity and energy make the show a place where Latina voices and stories come together.

Reyna, the first creator-led multi-media platform curated by Latinas for Latinas, launched in August 2026 with flagship station Reyna 103.1 FM. Los Angeles is home to 4.9 million Latinas, and the show is positioned as a new way for brands to reach them across radio, mobile, social, and streaming.

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From Near-Miss To Mission: John McConnell’s 20 Years of Driving Hope At The Reeve Foundation

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 28, 2026 - As we enter the giving season, EVP of Talent & Content at Workhouse Media John McConnell has compelling insights on how to drive philanthropic impact. In November 2005, he suffered a severe cycling accident that left him briefly paralyzed with C1 and C2 spinal fractures. Exactly one year to the day after his injury, he joined Team Reeve, the peer-to-peer endurance fundraising program of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, and completed the New York City Marathon.

That single race sparked a 20-year commitment. John has since run nine marathons for Team Reeve, joined the Foundation’s board of trustees and currently serves as Vice Chair, and helped raise millions of dollars for spinal cord injury research and the National Paralysis Resource Center. Today, his story stands as a compelling model of industry leadership turned into long-term advocacy for the 5.4 million Americans living with paralysis.

He encourages members of our industry to join him in this cause and can be contacted directly at john@workhousemedia.com to learn how. Please let him know if you would be interested in speaking with John; otherwise, I hope you’ll run this to inspire others in our industry to join John in advocacy. Photos/The Reeve Foundation = Read Article HERE

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SNAPS: myTalk 107.1 Says It Out Loud: 'Enough!' Ad Impact Reports Midterm Spending Tops $11B

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 28, 2026 - In Hubbard | Media That Connects’ latest creative use of billboards, myTalk 107.1 makes it clear that Minnesotans overwhelmed with election ads and political talk may have had enough. This week they posted a message via a digital billboard campaign in Minneapolis-St. Paul promoting Jason, Colleen and Holly in morning drive with the caption 'Escape From Politics.'

Speaking of political advertising, NPR reports that ad spending for midterms has now surpassed a record $11 billion, according to Ad Impact. An NPR analysis found that candidates in four major Senate races spent more than $15 million on fundraising ads in the 2025-26 election cycle. Read more HERE

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HONORS: Audacy Honored With Five Buffalo Broadcasters Awards And Hall of Fame Induction

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 28, 2026 - Audacy received five awards at the 2026 Buffalo Broadcasters Awards and Hall of Fame induction. The annual ceremony was hosted by the Buffalo Broadcasters Association, whose mission is to celebrate the rich legacy of broadcasting in Western New York while helping shape its future.

The list of Audacy winners include: Station of the Year WGR Sports Radio 550 - Radio Program of the Year “A New Morning” WBEN Newsradio - Sports Professional of the Year Sal Capaccio WGR Sports Radio 550 - Podcast of the Year “It’s Always Gameday in Buffalo” with Sal Capaccio and Matt Bove, produced by Mike Rabiej Audacy Sports Podcast - Breakout Talent of the Year Owen Parker WGR Sports Radio 550.

Photo - Left to right: Pat Malacaro, Alan Davis, Mike Schopp, Sal Capaccio, Sharon Metz, Jim Fink, Owen Parker and Susan Rose

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Mason Pradt Tapped For Middays On Radio One’s KKBQ/93Q Houston

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 28, 2026 - Radio One’s KKBQ (93Q) Houston has named Houston native Mason Pradt its new midday host. Pradt joined 93Q in 2014 as a promotions assistant and has since worked part-time on air, nights and as a producer.

“Mason is a Houstonian through and through, and you can hear it every time he’s on the air,” said 93Q Program Director Travis Moon. “He talks to listeners like a neighbor, because he is one. We’re really proud of him and excited to hear middays on 93Q shine even brighter.”

“Growing up in Houston, 93Q was always one of those stations I had on the radio, so getting the opportunity to be part of it in this way is pretty surreal,” said Pradt. “I started here as a promotions assistant back in 2014, and to now have the chance to be on the air every day at a station that’s meant so much to me and to this city is incredibly special."

Pradt added, "I’m so grateful to work alongside this hardworking and talented air staff that gives so much to this station and the Houston community, and makes coming to work every day something to look forward to. A big thank you to Travis Moon, Doug Abernathy, and everyone at Radio One for believing in me and giving me this amazing opportunity!”

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'The John Cast' With Intern John & Shelby Sos Officially Draws Over A Million Views

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 28, 2026 - After Intern John & Sos were laid off earlier this year and had to shelve their old podcast, they decided to launch something new. Following a brief "hiatus" The John Cast relaunched in the beginning of summer 2026, and has weekly episodes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

"The beauty of radio in 2026 is...it's not 1995...talent can't just 'vanish' after an station exit" says Intern John. " I spent 14 years building relationships with our listeners in DC and Baltimore, and we always believed they would follow us wherever we go"

Recently, Intern John & Sos co-hosted The Kramer Show on Audacy's MIX 106.5 from 9/28 - 10/1 - According to Intern John, during that time Mix saw their streaming numbers QUADROUPLE. "That was really emotional to see. That was also a huge test. We always believed our listeners would show up for us. The fact that they did after we'd been off the air for 6 months show the lasting power they have given us, it was amazing"

John added, "We were blessed that they day we were laid off, nearly every company called asking where we wanted to go next. Now that we're out of that non-compete window, we've been starting to have serious talks, and we can't wait to have a fresh start. Contact Intern John HERE

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iHeart Welcomes The Creekers As Guest Hosts of iHeart Bluegrass Radio Oct. 30- Nov. 1

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 28, 2026 - iHeart announced that The Creekers will takeover as hosts of iHeartBluegrass radio on October 30-November 1, 2026 in celebration of the release of their sophomore album, Follow The Sound (Warner Records Nashville). iHeartBluegrass is a live commercial-free streaming radio station available exclusively on iHeart.com and the iHeartRadio App.

The Creekers will join iHeartBluegrass to showcase songs like their hit “Tennessee” and their newest single “Follow The Sound.” The Creekers’ takeover will also feature songs from Billy Strings, Molly Tuttle, Zach Top and Rhonda Vincent.

It happens Friday, October 30 - Sunday, November 1, 2026, at 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. EST on iHeartBluegrass Radio available exclusively on the iHeartRadio app and online at iHeart.com.

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d'People' Names Noah Wyle Sexiest; Val Chmerkovskly Talks Suspension

 

Noah Wyle Is People's Sexiest Man Alive!

‘Crystal Lake’ Hits 1.3 Billion Minutes Watched in 11 Days

Val Chmerkovskiy Addresses Suspension ‘Chaos’ in ‘Dancing With the Stars’ Return

'The View' Cancels Halloween Costumes Episode for Third Year in a Row Amid FCC Drama

CNN’s Scott Jennings Hit With $72.5M Suit By Hasan Piker

Savannah Chrisley Announces She Is Pregnant, Engaged to Mystery Fiancé

Matthew Perry 'Struggled' With Sobriety Ahead of 'Friends' Reunion Special

Game Of Thrones: Malachite Officially Announced

The Best States for Trick-or-Treating

William Shatner Pays Tribute To Star Trek Costar Walter Koenig After His Death

Eric Bauza, Who Voiced Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck And Other Cartoon Characters, Dies at 46

Photo/Jeff Lipsky - People

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BLOG: AM/FM Radio Still Rules Ad-Supported Audio In-Car; Over 63M (18-34) Listen To Radio Weekly

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 27, 2026 - Ad industry perceptions of media audiences are often the opposite of reality. Using data from research firms Nielsen (via Katz and the Radio Advertising Bureau), LeadsRx, and Edison Research, this week’s Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group® blog disproves eight of the biggest misperceptions brands hold about AM/FM radio.

86% of Americans are reached by AM/FM radio weekly, twice what advertisers perceive. Persons 18-34 is the largest AM/FM radio listening demographic. Over 63M persons 18-34 listen to AM/FM radio weekly. The audience share of AM/FM radio is 16X larger than ad-supported Pandora and 13X larger than ad-supported Spotify.

AM/FM radio rules ad-supported audio in the car.​ Shifting just 10% of the media plan to AM/FM radio generates a +20% increase in reach with the same spend. In a typical day, digital audio only reaches a third of America; AM/FM radio reaches over half of America.

Click HERE to read the full blog.

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SummitMedia Omaha Names Aaron Wilborn Market President

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 27, 2026 - SummitMedia has named Aaron Wilborn Market President of its Omaha broadcast, digital and events operations. Wilborn joins Summit from Dick Broadcasting, where he has served as President since 2018, overseeing the company’s radio group along with its events and digital divisions. With more than 25 years in broadcast and digital sales, he previously served as President and CEO of Apex Media Corporation in Charleston, SC, leading its radio, digital, outdoor and IT businesses.

“I’m incredibly excited to join SummitMedia,” said Wilborn. “Omaha is an outstanding market, and I look forward to working alongside our talented team to strengthen our advertiser relationships and make a lasting impact in the community.”

“Aaron brings discipline, focus and energy to the Omaha market,” said Randy Chase, Executive Vice President of SummitMedia. “With Omaha growing at an accelerated pace, we see tremendous potential for our stations, our advertisers and our team.” SummitMedia’s Omaha stations include KQCH – Channel 94.1, KSRZ – Star 104.5, KEZO – Z92 (home of the Todd N Tyler Radio Empire) and KKCD – Classic Rock 105.9.

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WGN Radio’s Mary Sandberg Boyle Named GM Of The Year In Radio Ink’s 34th Annual Radio Wayne Awards

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 27, 2026 - WGN Radio Vice President and General Manager Mary Sandberg Boyle was officially named General Manager of the Year (Markets 1–20) at Radio Ink’s 34th Annual Radio Wayne Awards. Presented on Wednesday, October 21 at the NAB Show New York.

As the first female Vice President and General Manager in WGN Radio history, Boyle emerged from hundreds of nominees nationwide and five major-market finalists to take home the top honor. In addition to winning General Manager of the Year, Boyle has been recognized on Radio Ink’s Most Influential Women in Radio list for five consecutive years (2021–2026) and was honored as one of Radio Ink’s Best Managers in Radio in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

Leading the flagship station of the Chicago Blackhawks and Northwestern Wildcats, Boyle has played a pivotal role in shaping WGN Radio’s culture and operational success since joining in 2015. She spearheaded the launch of the weekday morning business program The Opening Bell in 2016 and served in key leadership positions including Executive Producer, Contributor, and Director of News and Operations. In September 2019, she was named Acting General Manager before being officially promoted to Vice President and General Manager in 2020.

Boyle’s distinguished career spans more than 25 years in Chicago radio, having previously served as Executive Producer for The Steve Dahl Show and the WBBM 96.3-FM Morning Show.

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Beharrell Show 'Somehow' Lands In Vancouver

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 27, 2026 - In an effort to show there's no shame in settling, Pattison Media Vancouver has added The Greg Beharrell Show 6pm-11pm, on CKPK "The Peak." Pattison Media Vancouver Market Manager, Russell James said, "Greg Beharrell does a great show for his abilities, and we are lucky he's part of our team, but we're not half as lucky as Greg."

Greg Beharrell commented, "when I heard the news, I didn't think I would be able to contain myself, but it turns out that the body naturally does this via a complicated structure of tissues and thin membranes." This Friday is Beharrell's first show on The Peak, his Halloween special.

To add The Greg Beharrell Show to your station, contact Scott Kerr at Yea Media Group (Scott@YeaMediaGroup.com), or contact Greg Beharrell directly, at your own peril.

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Hubbard's myTalk 107.1’s Project Down & Dirty Raises $132,000 For Minnesota Charities

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 27, 2026 - Hubbard Radio's myTalk 107.1’s Project Down & Dirty – Airport raised $132,000 for four Minnesota charities. Project Down & Dirty is an annual fundraiser where the myTalk hosts and producers are challenged to produce an event or immerse themselves in a project to raise money for local charities. In 16 years myTalk 107.1’s Project Down & Dirty has raised over $1,567,000 for Minnesota charities. This year’s Project Down & Dirty was themed PD&D Airport. The entire programming staff moved to the Intercontinental Hotel located at the MSP Airport and for three days broadcast live and learned jobs at the airport, including gate agents, baggage handling, pet therapy and the managing duty-free shops.

“For three days the staff of myTalk 107.1 donated their time to work at the MSP airport, tell important stories about the people that work there, and entertain and inform myTalkers,” commented Brand and Content Director, Amy Daniels. “Most importantly, they brought to life our four charity partners. Their missions, their people and the love and humanity they bring to the Twin Cities. The Twin Cities is a place we all love - and I heard from listeners on Friday that the airport and the stories you told made them all walk a little taller and feel proud to live in this place.”

Dan Seeman, President and Minnesota Region Manager for Hubbard | Media That Connects added, “myTalk 107.1 demonstrated the power of radio once again this year when they hosted their 16th annual Project Down & Dirty. Special thanks to the myTalk hosts and producers who give up three days to move to a hotel and immerse themselves in a PD&D project. I can tell you that it has a direct effect on making lives better for our listeners and fans in Minnesota.

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KTSA Raises $155,425 For San Antonio's Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 27, 2026 - Connoisseur Media's News Talk 550 KTSA and FM 107.1, along with its sister stations, raised $155,425 during the 19th Annual KTSA Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner Radiothon, continuing a longstanding partnership that helps ensure thousands of San Antonio residents can enjoy a warm meal and a sense of community on Thanksgiving Day. The funds will benefit the Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner, recognized as the nation's largest Thanksgiving dinner. Founded 47 years ago by San Antonio restaurateur Raul Jimenez, the event began by serving a few hundred guests and has grown into a cherished holiday tradition, welcoming more than 25,000 people in downtown San Antonio each Thanksgiving.

“The support from News Talk 550 KTSA and its sister stations is a true blessing,” said Patricia Jimenez, President of the Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner and daughter of its founder. “They're more than partners, they're family. Thanks to them and their amazing listeners, hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised to ensure no one in need goes hungry on Thanksgiving Day. KTSA is both the giver and the gift!” For longtime KTSA host Trey Ware, the radiothon is an opportunity to give back to the community he and his family have called home for generations. “It's such an honor to lead the KTSA Radiothon for the Jimenez Thanksgiving Dinner,” said Ware. “I love giving back to the community that has given so much to my family for 70 years. I LOVE YOU SAN ANTONIO!”

Photo courtesy of Connoisseur Media: Pictured: Trey Ware (center) and Sean Rima (2nd from right), KTSA morning hosts join Patricia Jimenez ( 3rd from left) Raul Jimenez, III (5th from the left), Yolanda Valenzuela, Kym Rapier Foundation (4th from left) and volunteers at the Alamo Lounge.

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[WATCH] 99.9 KISW-FM Seattle's The Daly Migs Show Spends A Night In Rumored Haunted Hotel

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 27, 2026 - As we recently reported, 99.9 Seattle's The Daly Migs Show took part in paranormal challenge as Taryn Daly, Steve Migs, and Danny V spent the night inside Seattle's legendary Hotel Sorrento, a historic landmark with more than a century of ghost stories. But they stay in just any room. The trio spent the night in the infamous Room 408, rumored to be one of the most haunted hotel rooms in the world.

Steve Migliore declared: 'We pulled it off! The idea started with me questioning ghost stories on air, which led to a listener challenging us to spend the night in Room 408 at Seattle’s Hotel Sorrento. We turned it into a couple weeks of content, interviewing people about haunted Seattle locations, and sharing ghost stories It all led to us spending the night at the hotel and broadcasting live the next morning from its haunted Fireside Room!

Check out the event HERE

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Edison Research Announces Top 50 Podcasts For Q3 2026 - 'Dumb Blonde,' 'Pat McAfee On The Rise

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 26, 2026 - Edison Research at SSRS announced the Top 50 Podcasts in the U.S. from Edison Podcast Metrics™ based on reach for the third quarter of 2026 among weekly podcast consumers ages 13+.  The Joe Rogan Experience, Crime Junkie, and The Daily top the list, as they did in Q2 2026. Other rank changes in the Top 10 noted below parenthetically. The full list of Top 50 podcasts link is below. Call Her Daddy, Smartless, New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce, (+1 rank position since Q2 2026), This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von (+1 rank position since Q2 2026), Dateline NBC (-2 rank positions since Q2 2026), Rotten Mango (+4 rank position since Q2 2026) The Breakfast Club (+1 rank position since Q2 2026).

Breaking into the Top 20 Dumb Blonde breaks into the top 20 for the first time; The Pat McAfee Show debuts in the top 25. Another sports podcast, Pardon My Take, breaks into the top 25. The show's creators published a book to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the podcast, appropriately titled: Pardon My Book. Kill Tony also breaks into the top 25.

Joining the Top 50: Startalk Radio, Club 520, The Stephen A. Smith Show/Straight Shooter, Hang Out with Sean Hannity, and Smosh Reads Reddit Stories all enter the top 50 for the first time. Bubbling under: True Crime with Kendall Rae climbs 44 positions to 55th, just missing the top 50. See complete list HERE

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Salt Air Broadcasting Purchase of CCB Media Leads To Exits of Key On-Air And Management Staff On Cape Cod

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 26, 2026 - As Salt Air Broadcasting completes its acquisition of CCB Media’s Cape Cod stations, a group of full-time morning show personalities, programming leaders, and other staff members with their employment ending November 30. Those departing include: Jon Reilly, Operations Manager / Director of Programming for WQRC, WKPE, and WOCN, and morning host on Cape Country 104 Kristina Carlyle, morning host on 99.9 The Q and afternoon host on Cape Country 104 John Willis, morning host on Ocean 104.7 and midday host on Cape Country 104.

Additional full-time staff whose employment ends November 30 include Brian Barth, General Manager; James Bone, Director of Digital; and Pete Schmeck, social media and digital team member. Part-time departures include Cheryl Parks, midday host on Ocean 104.7, and Megan Ward, weekend air talent on Ocean 104.7.

Salt Air Broadcasting has indicated it will retain existing sales and back-office staff while planning to relaunch CapeCod.com and introduce a new non-profit Classical format on an HD subchannel.

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Lazer 103.3 Des Moines Debuts Ryan Gibbons In Mornings

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 26, 2026 - Des Moines Media Group and LAZER 103.3 announced the addition of Ryan Gibbons as the station’s new morning show host. “I’m thrilled beyond words to join the legendary crew at LAZER 103.3,” said Gibbons. “Huge thanks to OM, Leigh McNabb, PD, Styles, and GM, Amber Battani for believing in me and giving me this phenomenal opportunity. Let’s make some noise, LAZER Hellraisers!”

LAZER 103.3 Program Director, Wes Styles added, “We’re excited to have Gibbons join the LAZER team, bringing his amazing level of energy and sense of humor to Des Moines. He’s already hitting the streets, meeting the Hellraisers, and invading the jumbotron at the Iowa Wild with one of the greatest air guitar solos in history.”

Gibbons will officially debut on LAZER 103.3 mornings beginning today October 26, 2026. There will also be a programming change on that day. Styles will take over middays 10am – 2pm, while Ethan anchors afternoon drive 2pm – 6pm. Samantha Knight remains in evenings 6pm – 11pm.

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MIW Names Callie Luttman As 2026 ‘Behind The Mic’ Mentee

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 26, 2026 - Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio announced Callie Luttman, morning show host on Saga Communications' Mix 94.5 (WLRW) in Champaign-Urbana, Illinois, as the recipient of its 2026 Behind the Mic Mentorship. The year-long program is designed to support the professional growth of women on-air personalities through one-on-one mentorship with senior industry leaders in programming, talent development, audience growth and brand strategy.

Before taking over as solo morning host on Mix 94.5, she spent four years co-hosting The Tommy and Callie Morning Show. She also hosts afternoon drive on 97.9 The Vibe, where she oversees music programming, and leads Focus, a weekly public affairs program airing across all seven Illini Media Group stations. She began her broadcasting career at WEIU Hit Mix 88.9 and Cromwell Radio Group.

“Callie represents the kind of talent this mentorship was created to support,” said Leslie Scott, MIW Board Member. “She's already demonstrated tremendous initiative by taking on multiple on-air roles, programming responsibilities and meaningful community engagement. What stands out is her commitment to growing beyond the microphone while continuing to strengthen her connection with listeners.

“I am beyond grateful to have been selected for this incredible opportunity,” said Luttman. “I'm motivated and ready to explore new areas of growth while learning from some incredible women in this industry. I truly appreciate this opportunity and can't wait to get started!” For more information on MIW and the Behind The Mic Mentorship program, please visit www.radioMIW.com.

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Popcrush Nights Presents Our Halloween Special 2026    

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 26, 2026 - Get ready for Pop, Pumpkins + the Paranormal, where PopCrush Nights hosts Donny and Lauryn dive into all things spooky, strange and pop-culture. The special is 100% ad-free and available to both affiliates and non-affiliates.

Broadcast Air Date: October 30-31, 2026 — Show download is available Tuesday, October 27.

To get the PopCrush Nights Halloween Special For CHR and HOT AC Stations Contact: Sydney Sperling Compass Media Networks 914-708-1456 - For Availability and Access Code: Email Here

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Black Box Group Offers Free Halloween Takeover Of The Drop

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 26, 2026 - Black Box Group is giving radio shows a a free special edition of The Drop with five daily content anchors and more than 10 bonus segments including games, topics and features for Halloween week. The one-page edition includes Horror Victim Auditions, Ask A Gravedigger, No BS Ghost Stories, Candy Corn Court and much more. Each includes a clear setup and execution direction so shows can put their own personalities into the material.

“Talent doesn’t need another list of Halloween facts or links to 30 scary stories. They need something worth putting on the air right now,” said Keith Cunningham, Founder of Black Box Group. “Give callers ten seconds to audition their horror-movie death scene. Make listeners defend questionable costumes. Put candy corn on trial. Shows want to stand out, especially when everyone’s on the same subject.”

The special edition of The Drop is available for free to any station or show, with no subscription required. “Today’s talent are covering multiple jobs, and critical prep time gets squeezed,” Cunningham added. “This is something useful we can put in their hands. Take it, make it yours, have a great week, trick or treat.”

For a free Halloween Takeover edition or regular subscription availability, click on keithblackboxgroup@gmail.com

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The NAB Show Wraps Up In NYC; Will Co-Locate With SMPSTE Summit At Javits Center In 2027

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 23, 2026 - NAB Show New York 2026 wrapped up yesterday at the Javits Center after two days centered on media transformation, AI’s impact on production costs, and the evolving value of live sports. About 57% of attendees were first-timers, representing 72 countries. The event featured 250 exhibitors and sponsors, 101 sessions, and 156 speakers.

Creator sessions explored turning influence into sustainable businesses, with dentsu’s Christine Cotter urging brands to treat influencers as true partners rather than vendors. On sports, commentator Clay Travis pushed broadcasters to experiment rather than wait for guaranteed results. New York Islanders co-owner Jon Ledecky noted that the drama Heated Rivalry has driven a 45% rise in women’s NHL attendance. Live-production leaders stressed that technology still requires experienced improvisation when plans fail.

The 2027 NAB Show and SMPTE Summit will co-locate at the Javits Center in 2027, bringing together two leading events serving the media and entertainment industry. Taking place Sept. 28-30, 2027, the SMPTE Summit, the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers, premier annual technical conference, will feature three days of sessions and discussions exploring the technologies, standards and workflows shaping the future of media and entertainment.

“We’re excited to bring the SMPTE Summit back to New York alongside NAB Show,” said Sally-Ann D’Amato, Executive Director of SMPTE. “This is a natural fit for our organizations and a tremendous opportunity for the industry. Together, we can connect the people developing the standards and technologies of tomorrow with those putting them to work today.”

The NAB Show returns to Las Vegas April 3-7, 2027, with exhibits April 4-7.

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Steve Goldstein: 'The Death of The Follower.' Why Your Podcast Audience Can No Longer Reach You

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 23, 2026 - For years, the ritual was simple and reliable: “Like, follow, and subscribe so you never miss an episode.” Creators asked, listeners clicked, and the platforms delivered. A follow functioned as a social contract — you posted, your audience saw it. That contract has quietly expired. On YouTube (now the leading platform for podcasts), Spotify, and even Apple Podcasts, the follow button no longer guarantees delivery. Recommendation algorithms, optimized for time spent and retention rather than the people you deliberately chose, now decide what surfaces. The result is a widening gap between the audience creators think they have and the one that actually sees their work.

In this week's blog: The Death of the Follower' by Amplify Media's Steven Goldstein, he explains why that deal has changed. "YouTube says only about 1 in 10 subscribers who see a new episode actually click on it. Apple stops downloading episodes for followers who drift away. What Changed? For most of social media’s history, feeds were built around the people you chose. Follow a friend or celebrity and their posts showed up in your feed. To break through as a creator, you built a following so you had an audience you could reach. The follow was a social contract. TikTok broke it. Its “For You” page serves up whatever holds your attention, from anyone. It worked so well that everyone followed. Instagram added Reels, YouTube added Shorts, and Facebook and X rebuilt their feeds around recommendations."

Goldstein touched on a conversation he had about vertical video. Some now call it “interest media.” Patreon CEO Jack Conte calls it the death of the follower. On Taylor Lorenz’s Power User podcast, he described creators who spent years building a community and now can’t reach it when they post. “That’s insane,” he said. Conte’s not a neutral observer. Patreon does well when creators worry about losing their audience. But he is right? Click HERE for the complete blog.

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New York State Broadcasters Association (NYSBA) Celebrates Rising Leaders Fellowship Class of 2026

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 23, 2026 - The New York State Broadcasters Association (NYSBA) announced the graduation of its Rising Leaders Fellowship Class of 2026. The NYSBA Rising Leaders Fellowship is an MBA-style program designed to prepare emerging broadcast leaders for the evolving 360-degree responsibilities of today’s station, c-suite, and community leadership. The Class of 2026 graduates are Danielle Ashworth, Sales Manager, Regional Radio Group, LLC; Candace Curby, Promotions Director & On-Air Personality, Albany Broadcasting; Josh Koumjian, News Director, WNYT and WNYA; Kathleen O'Hare-Stewart, Controller, WHEC-TV; Rob Taylor, News Director, NewsChannel 9 WSYR; Brielle Travis, Account Executive, Pamal Broadcasting; Veronica Volk, Executive Producer / Director of Podcast Strategy, WXXI; and Natasha Yurek, Senior Executive Producer, Nexstar / WIVB-TV.

“The future of local broadcasting depends on leaders who understand both our evolving business and the responsibilities of serving our local communities,” said Heidi Raphael, President and Executive Director of NYSBA. “This year’s graduates represent the talent, dedication and potential that will move our industry forward. By investing in our fellow's development, we are investing in the future of New York’s radio and television stations and the commitment we make to our local communities.”

“Our goal is not simply to help talented people take the next step in their careers. Our goal is to help build leaders who make the people and organizations around them better,” said Marc Jaromin, President of Roundtable Media, NYSBA Board member and Fellowship Program Dean. “For our fellows that means knowing, and building on, your personal strengths, understanding the entirety of the business and recognizing that station success and community service are deeply connected.".”

Shown above L-R: Caption (L-R:) NYSBA President Heidi Raphael with Rising Leaders 2026 Fellowship Graduates Kathleen O’Hare-Stewart, Danielle Ashworth, Natasha Yurek, Josh Koumjian, Candace Curby, Rob Taylor, and Brielle Travis.

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Radio Mercury Awards Announce Flor Leibaschoff As 2027 Chief Judge

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 22, 2026 - The Radio Mercury Awards is pleased to announce Flor Leibaschoff, co-founder and chief creative officer of BeautifulBeast, as the 2027 chief judge for the 36th annual Radio Mercury Awards competition.

With more than 25 years of experience in the advertising industry, Leibaschoff is a passionate storyteller and creative leader known for developing ideas that drive business growth and connect with audiences across cultures. She made history as the first Hispanic woman to serve as a chief creative officer in the United States and has been recognized as a Shining Star by the American Advertising Federation and was named a Woman to Watch by DMN (Data. Strategy. Technology), New York.

A pioneer in the industry, she was among the first Young Creatives (YC) to win a Silver Cannes Lion representing the U.S. Hispanic Market, and she served as president of Círculo Creativo USA and was on the boards of industry organizations. Her work has earned recognition at leading international advertising festivals, including two 2026 Radio Mercury Awards.

“Flor has been a longtime friend and champion of the Radio Mercury Awards, and we’ve valued our partnership with her in strengthening and elevating the competition,” said Mike Hulvey, president and CEO of RAB. “We’re thrilled to welcome her as chief judge for our 36th annual awards and look forward to the creative vision and leadership she’ll bring to this year’s competition,” said Mike Hulvey, president and chief executive officer of RAB and chair of the Radio Creative Fund.

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Nicole Passero Named APD/Afternoon Host On Country 'Big Froggy 101' State Colleg PA

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 22, 2026 - Seven Mountains Media has appointed Nicole Passero as APD/afternoon host at Country "Big Froggy 101" WFGY State College PA - Passero will also over its social media. Passero previously served as an intern for iHeart's Elvis Duran Show and served as student PD at Montclair State University's 90.3 WMSC Montclair NJ. According to Radio Insight, Passero will use the on-air name 'Daisy Green.'

"I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped me get to this point in my journey, whether it was through career advice, conversations, encouragement, or simply being there when I needed to make a decision. A special thank you to Anabella Poland, Corey Dylan, Charlie Maxx, and Tony Lorino for being such an important part of my journey! Thank you to JC Burton and Jerry Valeri for this incredible opportunity. I’m so excited to join the team and see where this journey takes me!"

Seven Mountains Chief Programming Officer JC Burton said, "Nicole brings a great combination of confidence, creativity and personality. She made an immediate impression on me and our entire 7MM State College team, and we couldn’t be more excited to have her on board. Her enthusiasm, engaging personality and infectious energy will be a tremendous addition to our team and the market.” Special thanks to Radio Insight's Lance Venta with this story. Photo/Facebook - Morning Show Boot Camp Austin.

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MIW And NABLF Remind Women To Apply For 2026 Launch Mentorship Program

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 23, 2026 - Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. (MIW) and the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) are reminding women pursuing careers in broadcast engineering, audio production and technical operations that applications for the 2026 LAUNCH Mentorship Program close Friday, October 30, 2026. The year-long program is proudly sponsored by Mr. Master. New this year, eligibility has expanded to include women working for broadcast technology partners and vendors, opening the door for more professionals across the industry to benefit from mentorship and career development opportunities.

Launched in 2023, LAUNCH pairs a rising female professional with an experienced industry leader for one-on-one mentorship, technical guidance and professional development. The program provides exposure to key areas of broadcast technology, including FCC compliance, RF systems, automation, IP-based broadcast systems, streaming and digital audio. The selected mentee will also have the opportunity to attend the 2027 NAB Show in Las Vegas, gaining valuable industry connections and firsthand exposure to the latest broadcast technologies.

Whether pursuing technical certification, advancing an engineering career or expanding expertise in broadcast operations, LAUNCH is designed to help women strengthen their skills, build professional relationships and prepare for future leadership opportunities.

Applications are open through October 30, 2026. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline. APPLY HERE

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dCharli xcx To Star In Scorsese Film, Actor Tom Skerritt Has Died At 93

 

Beloved Actor, Tom Skerritt, Star of Top Gun, Steel Magnolias And Alien, Passes Away At 93

Amazon MGM Reportedly Down To Fiinal Three Actors For 'Bond' Lead

Charli xcx Joins Martin Scorsese’s ‘What Happens At Night’ With DiCaprio And Jennifer Lawrence

Ryan Gosling’s Band Dead Man’s Bones Announces Comeback With New Music

Harry Styles Busted Getting Into Heated NYC Exchange With Autograph Seeker

Britt Mchenry Gets Into Heated Confrontation With Unruly Sports Fan At NBA Game

Miley Cyrus Helps Shave Head Of Fan Undergoing Chemo

Golden Bachelor's Mel Owens and Peg Munson Break Up One Year After Finale

UH Oh: Time To Turn Clocks Back Coming Soon - What You Need To Know

Photo/Tri-Star Picures

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BFOA Expands Aid To Help Those Facing Financial Challenges Beyond Illness And Disasters

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 22, 2026 - The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) is expanding its charitable assistance to help more radio and television professionals facing financial hardship. The Foundation has introduced Hardship Grants for broadcasters on unpaid or reduced-pay leave and those confronting extraordinary expenses related to family care, housing emergencies, relocation, or theft. The new grant program was unanimously approved by the BFOA Board of Directors at its most recent meeting and is already accepting applications from those in need of assistance.

“This expands our ability to reach broadcasters who are struggling to meet their expenses because of extraordinary circumstances,” said Scott Herman, Chair of the Broadcasters Foundation of America. “I was delighted that the Board unanimously approved this initiative. We are up and running and ready to help more members of our broadcasting community when they need it most.”

Hardship Grants represent the third category of assistance offered by the BFOA, which has supported broadcasters facing financial distress for decades. The BFOA also provides Monthly Grants to broadcasters dealing with prolonged illnesses and Emergency Grants to those affected by disasters, including floods and hurricanes. “Our mission is to help broadcasters in need, and that commitment continues to guide everything we do,” said Tim McCarthy, President of the Broadcasters Foundation of America. “By expanding our grant programs, we can respond to a broader range of circumstances and provide critical assistance to more people in our industry when they need a helping hand.”

For more information, radio and television professionals who currently or previously worked in broadcasting may visit www.broadcastersfoundation.org, or contact 212-373-8250 or info@thebfoa.org.

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Buzz Knight Media Donates More Of His Podcasts Episodes To The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Library

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 22, 2026 - Buzz Knight Media Productions (BKMP) announced that a new selection of episodes from its flagship podcast 'Takin' A Walk' and its sister show 'Music Saved Me' have been accepted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Library and Archives in Cleveland, Ohio, adding to the growing permanent collection of BKMP conversations preserved by the Hall.

This latest donation from Takin' A Walk, hosted by media executive and podcast producer Buzz Knight, includes episodes featuring guitar legends Joe Satriani and Steve Vai (SATCHVAI), actor and musician David Duchovny, Danish singer-songwriter Lukas Graham, the band AdLeen Rose, featuring Tina Rose, daughter of Leon Russell, and Amy Nelson, daughter of Willie Nelson, legendary Boston radio personality Chuck Nowlin, and acclaimed music video director Nigel Dick. For 'Music Saved Me,' hosted by Lynn Hoffman, the Rock Hall has accepted episodes featuring singer-songwriter Ben Kweller and musician and Reimagine founder Brad Wolfe.

"Every one of these conversations captures an artist reflecting on the moments that shaped them — the risks, the breakthroughs, the songs that mattered," said Buzz Knight. "To have them preserved permanently at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, alongside the history of the music itself, is something I don't take for granted. This one means as much to me as the first donation did."

This marks the latest in an ongoing relationship between BKMP and the Rock Hall's Library and Archives, which first accepted select Takin' A Walk episodes into its permanent collection in 2024. Takin' A Walk has produced more than 600 episodes since its launch, becoming known for its signature closing Dream Walk question posed to every guest: "If you could take a walk with anyone, living or dead, who would it be?" The show is part of the BKMP network and distributed through iHeartPodcasts.

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TikTok And iHeart Announce Three New Podcasts Joining The TikTok Podcast Network This Fall

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 22, 2026 - TikTok and iHeartPodcasts are adding three original shows to the TikTok Podcast Network this fall.

Oh My Kosh with Hannah Kosh (premieres Oct. 28, Wednesdays): Weekly deep dives into internet trends, headlines, and culture by creator/“internet historian” Hannah Kosh.

Born to Become with Diana Flores (premieres Nov. 5, Thursdays): Interviews with athletes, creators, and leaders about personal journeys and defining moments, hosted by the two-time flag football world champion and NFL/IFAF Global Flag Ambassador.

Caroline’s Closet (premieres Dec. 10, Thursdays): Fashion editor/author Caroline Vazzana interviews guests in their closets about style, identity, and the stories behind what they wear.

The network, launched in March 2026 as a TikTok–iHeart partnership to expand creators into long-form audio (with GEICO as exclusive launch partner), already includes shows like Sports Slice, The Clifford Show, Suite 305 with Lele Pons, and Delivering Happiness. The new additions reflect TikTok and iHeart’s continued focus on creating new opportunities for creators to grow and reach new audiences, while giving fans more ways to discover and connect with the personalities they love.

All podcasts on the TikTok Podcast Network are published by iHeartPodcasts and are available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard.

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United Stations, Gemini XIII And YEA Podcast Combine To Create Gemini Networks

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 22, 2026 - Gemini XIII announced the creation of Gemini Networks through the combination of United Stations Radio Networks (USRN), Gemini XIII Podcast Network and YEA Podcast Network. The combined network will reach more than 200 million consumers each month. As Gemini Networks continues to expand its portfolio across podcasting, YouTube and digital entertainment, the company is extending its brand to encompass the programming and services historically associated with United Stations.

Going forward, United Stations Radio Networks will no longer operate as a separate brand, with its programming and services becoming part of the broader Gemini Networks offering. The move brings together national radio programming and services with Gemini XIII’s digital-first approach to content, distribution and monetization.

“Gemini Networks will now have offerings and capabilities operating under one management team which will span across podcasting, streaming, broadcast radio, YouTube and social media,” said Charles Steinhauer, President and COO of Gemini Networks. “There’s a real opportunity for our programming, talent and advertising partners to leverage these assets together in a complementary fashion.”

For existing customers and partners of United Stations, the transition will be seamless. There will be no changes to the day-to-day operations of existing programming or services, and current relationships, programming and support will continue without interruption. Key-United will remain as a joint sales venture with Key Networks and will continue to serve its existing clients and partners while gaining access to the company’s broader portfolio.

For more information on Gemini XIII and Gemini Networks, visit www.geminixiii.co.

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KMOX St. Louis Adds 'The Last Show With David Cooper' To Its Weekly Roster

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 22, 2026 - Audacy's KMOX 1120 AM & 104.1 FM, the station that pioneered talk radio, continues to innovate in the space by adding a dynamic new show to its roster: The Last Show with David Cooper. KMOX Brand Manager Steve Moore said “The show is quirky, curious, unexpected and entertaining — a fresh voice in a crowded radio landscape that gives people something they won’t find anywhere else on the dial. We’re excited to bring David’s unique perspective to KMOX and think St. Louis is going to love it.” The Last Show with David Cooper now airs weeknights from 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM on KMOX (1120 AM / 104.1 FM). The program already boasts major market clearances across North America, including Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary.

David Cooper, a recovering Silicon Valley software engineer, created the show to focus on curiosity rather than outrage and divisiveness. “I spent 15 years writing software, and the core question never leaves you: ‘Why does anyone keep using this past the first ten seconds?’ That’s the driving force of the show,” says Cooper.

“Thank you to Steve Moore and the entire Audacy team in St. Louis for the privilege of joining one of America’s most successful stations.” KMOX serves as the U.S. flagship station for The Last Show with David Cooper. Learn more about the show at: www.lastshow.pizza

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Abby Jessen Rises To Brand Manager For Cox Media Group's B98.5 Atlanta

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 22, 2026 - Cox Media Group’s Atlanta Radio announced the promotion of longtime radio programmer and on-air talent Abby Jessen to Director of Branding and Programming for B98.5 (WSB-FM), where she will lead the station’s programming, brand strategy and audience growth.

An Atlanta native and University of Georgia graduate, Jessen began her radio career with CMG in Athens, Georgia, where she programmed WGAU and WXKT (103.7 Chuck FM) and anchored Saturday news for 95.5 WSB (WSB-AM/WSBB-FM) in Atlanta. She later spent three years with CMG Tulsa as Director of Branding & Programming and afternoon talent for Hot AC station KRAV (Mix 96.5). Jessen returned to CMG Atlanta as Assistant Director of Branding & Programming and midday host for

“Abby’s promotion to B98.5 Director of Branding and Programming is incredibly well deserved,” said Jules Riley, Director of Operations and Programming for CMG Atlanta Radio. “Throughout more than a decade with CMG, she has continued to grow as a leader and has brought creativity, passion and a deep commitment to every role she has held. Since returning to Atlanta, Abby’s leadership and guidance have helped strengthen B98.5’s position as a leading adult contemporary brand. I’m excited to see how her vision and creativity take B98.5 to even greater heights.”

In addition to her new role, Jessen will continue hosting middays on B98.5, as well as on CMG’s Easy 102.9 (WEZI/Jacksonville, Florida), 106.1 WNGC (WNGC/Athens, Georgia) and Hits 105.3 (KSMG/San Antonio, Texas).

“I’m incredibly grateful to the mentors, teammates, friends and my wonderful husband who have supported me throughout my career,” said Jessen. “I grew up listening to B98.5, so it is truly a privilege to continue working with this amazing team to serve our listeners and the community we call home.”

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Bonneville Denver Promotes Nathan Gilbert To Director Of Sales Denver

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 22, 2026 - Bonneville Denver has appointed Nathan Gilbert as its Director of Sales, effective immediately. Nathan most recently served as the General Sales Manager at Bonneville Denver, a position that he has held for the past year. “I’m honored and excited to accept the Director of Sales position at Bonneville Denver. This is an opportunity to build on a strong foundation of trusted brands, talented people, and meaningful connections with the communities we serve,” shared Nathan.

Nathan added, “My priority is to create an environment where our people feel supported, challenged, and equipped to succeed. By investing in their development, encouraging collaboration, and keeping our clients’ needs at the center of our work, we can drive lasting growth for both our partners and Bonneville Denver. I’m grateful for the trust placed in me and confident in what we can accomplish together,” added Nathan.

“This was an easy decision and a natural transition given Nathan’s proven track record,” said Katie Reid, Senior Vice President and Market Manager for Bonneville Denver. “He has built trust with our sales team and made a huge impact over the past year. I’m excited to see him build on that momentum as our Director of Sales.”

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NEW 102.7's 'Intern Ant' Walks 13.8 Miles To Raise Over $16,000 For VEG Cares in New York

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 22, 2026 - Audacy's NEW 102.7 (WNEW-FM) New York raised over $16,000 for VEG Cares during its third “Anthony’s Walk for Animals.” Anthony “Intern Ant” Malerba, co-host of “Karen Carson in the Morning,” walked 13.8 miles on October 16 across Hylan Boulevard, the longest street in Staten Island, to encourage the community to donate and help local animals in need.

“The tristate area came out on a rainy and cold day to bring the heat and sunshine, with over $16,000 donated to the animals in need,” said Malerba. “Our listeners were the motivation to keep walking all the way to the very end. Every year, it’s such an incredible experience to see the power of radio and what ‘Karen Carson in the Morning’ listeners can do. We can’t wait for next year!”

Listeners and the local community came out to support Intern Ant during his trek, including the Staten Island Tech High School Marching Band and Anthony’s Paninoteca, who delivered him a delicious meal to fuel his walk. Co-hosts Karen Carson and Johnny Mingione supported him on the airwaves, giving listeners live updates on the walk’s progress. VEG Cares helps provide lifesaving emergency care to pets whose families have exhausted their options for paying for treatment, giving them hope when they need it most.

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NAB Celebrates Its 2026 Marconi Radio Award Winners At The Edison Ballroom In New York City

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 21, 2026 - The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) last night announced the winners of the 2026 NAB Marconi Radio Awards during a memorable evening at the Edison Ballroom on the eve of the NAB Show New York

Presented by NAB with Xperi as title sponsor, the celebration was also supported by Quu, the Winners’ Scorecard sponsor, and ENCO, the closed-captioning sponsor. The evening was hosted by Deja Vu, the nationally syndicated radio personality with Compass Media Networks. Matt Cord, a veteran Philadelphia radio personality and longtime public address announcer for the Philadelphia 76ers, lent his distinctive voice to the evening’s prerecorded announcements.

The evening also paid tribute to Joel Huxley, president and general manager of Hubbard Radio Washington, D.C., who received the 2026 NAB National Radio Award in recognition of his extraordinary leadership and lasting contributions to the industry.

Established in 1989 and named for inventor and Nobel Prize winner Guglielmo Marconi, the NAB Marconi Radio Awards honor radio stations and on-air personalities demonstrating outstanding achievement and service to their communities.

This year’s NAB Marconi Radio Award winners are: Legendary Station of the Year - WIVK-FM, Knoxville, Tenn. - Legendary Radio Manager of the Year- - Julie Koehn, WLEN-FM, Adrian, Mich. - Network/Syndicated Personality of the Year The Bob & Sheri Show, WKQC-FM, Beasley Media Group, Charlotte, N.C. - Major Market Personality of the Year- Karson and Kennedy, WBMX-FM, Boston - Large Market Personality of the Year - Karen Dalessandro, KSLX-FM, Phoenix - Medium Market Personality of the Year-- Ron Olson and Karen Perrin, WRVR-FM, Memphis, Tenn. - -Small Market Personality of the Year-- Chris Lawrence, WCHS-AM, Charleston, W.Va. - Major Market Station of the Year WBMX-FM, Boston - -Large Market Station of the Year WYXB-FM, Indianapolis - Medium Market Station of the Year WYCT-FM, Pensacola, Fla. -Small Market Station of the Year- - KBHP-FM, Bemidji, Minn.Best Radio Podcast of the Year- -“Purple Daily,” KSTP-AM, Hubbard Broadcasting, St. Paul, Minn. - AC Station of the Year KBIG-FM, Los Angeles - CHR Station of the Year KRBE-FM Houston - Classic Hits Station of the Year - WCBS-FM, New York - -College Radio Station of the Year WRRC-FM, Rider University, Lawrenceville, N.J. - Country Station of the Year KKBQ-FM, Houston - News/Talk Station of the Year WSB-AM, Atlanta - Religious Station of the Year-- WGTS-FM, Washington, D.C. - Rock Station of the Year WIYY-FM, Baltimore - Spanish Language Station of the Year - KOVE-FM, Houston - Sports Station of the Year - WEEI-FM, Boston - Urban Station of the Year- - WHQT-FM, Miami

Marconi finalists were selected by a committee of broadcasters, and the winners were determined by the NAB Marconi Radio Awards Selection Academy.

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Longtime WHAS Louisville Host Terry Meiners To Be Honored As 2026 'Louisvillian Of The Year'

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 21, 2026 - Longtime iHeart WHAS radio host Terry Meiners will be honored as recipient of the American Advertising Federation as Louisville’s 76th Louisvillian of the Year Award.. He'll be honored at a ceremony on Dec. 2. The award honors individuals whose contributions extend beyond professional accomplishments to strengthen civic life, shape the city’s future and celebrate Louisville’s creative legacy. Meiners began his radio career in Louisville in 1976 and joined WHAS-AM in 1986.

According the The Lane Report, among his most significant contributions is his work with the WHAS Crusade for Children, which has raised more than $230 million since 1954 to support children with special needs and their families. Meiners has served as the longest-tenured host in the fundraiser’s history, completing 27 consecutive years in the role. He has also supported numerous community organizations, including Metro United Way, the Louisville Police Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana, the Louisville Urban League and Gilda’s Club.

“Terry has been a giant in the Louisville media scene for decades,” said Monica Bischoff, board chair of AAF-Louisville. “His voice and impact span decades and he has contributed to the community in so many ways. We are thrilled to recognize him as Louisvillian of the Year.” A Louisville native, Meiners He studied journalism and broadcasting at the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville.

Photo: Mario Maitland, iHeart Radio Louisville

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Laurie DeYoung Returns To Baltimore Morning Radio As Guest Host On Mix 106.5 'Kramer Show'

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 21, 2026 - One of Baltimore’s most recognizable radio voices is coming back to mornings this week. Country Radio Hall of Famer Laurie DeYoung will be heard on The Kramer Show on Mix 106.5 as a special guest cohost today, October 21, through Friday, October 23. For nearly four decades, DeYoung helped Baltimore wake up on 93.1 WPOC, becoming a familiar presence through school drop-offs, morning commutes and generations of listeners’ lives. Now, she’s stepping into Kramer’s studio for a three-day encore.

“Some people work in Baltimore radio. Laurie is part of Baltimore radio history,” Kramer said. “People didn’t just listen to her. They grew up with her, raised their families with her and made her part of their mornings. Getting to welcome her into our studio is a pretty incredible moment.”

DeYoung joined WPOC in 1985 and concluded her longtime morning-show run in December 2024. Her return to mornings brings together two personalities who built their relationships with Baltimore listeners on competing stations. “For years, we were trying to get people to choose between our shows,” Kramer said. “This week, they get both of us. I can’t wait to see where the conversations go.”

DeYoung joins a growing list of special guest cohosts on The Kramer Show, including Frank Ski, JoJo Girard, Intern John and Shelby Sos, Jeff St. Pierre, and Mix 106.5’s Corinna Delgado. The series has brought together former competitors and familiar radio personalities for unexpected morning-show collaborations. “Baltimore has so many personalities people have a real connection with,” Kramer added. “Getting them into the same studio, sharing stories and letting listeners hear a different side of them has been so much fun. Having Laurie join us is another huge moment.”

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Study: 'The Most Valuable Podcast Consumers Are Not Living In A Separate Universe From Radio'

Final webinar highlights the power of radio hosts, host-read ads Superfans, and opportunities to deepen audience relationships 

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 21, 2026 - Strategic Solutions Research along with Point-To-Point Marketing presented the final webinar in The Podcast Study 2026 series on Tuesday, examining what the research can teach radio leaders about talent, advertising, audience development, and the growing overlap between radio and podcast consumers. “What Radio Can Learn from The Podcast Study” used findings from the national study of 1,205 U.S. podcast consumers to look specifically at the behavior of radio listeners within the podcast audience. The Podcast Study 2026 was made possible with the support of Crooked Media, NPR, and PRX. Strategic Solutions Research and Point-To-Point Marketing thanked all three organizations for helping make the national research and webinar series possible. 

One of the clearest findings was just how much the two audiences overlap. Seventy-four percent of podcast consumers in the study listen to local radio at least weekly, while 46% listen every day.That overlap also extends to podcasting’s most engaged consumers. Forty-three percent of daily radio listeners qualified as either a Podcast Superfan or Prime Prospect, compared with 26% of podcast consumers who are not regular radio listeners. 

Looking at the relationship from the other direction, 79% of Podcast Superfans listen to local radio at least weekly and 58% listen every day. Among Prime Prospects, 82% are weekly radio listeners and 56% listen daily. “The most valuable podcast consumers are not living in a separate universe from radio,” said Hal Rood, Partner/EVP of Strategic Solutions Research. “They are already using radio at very high levels. That creates an important opportunity for radio to think about how talent, content, community, and direct audience relationships can deepen the engagement it already has.” 

The webinar also focused heavily on the selling power of the host. Among daily radio listeners, 47% said host-read ads strongly influence them to try or buy a product, compared with 34% for prerecorded advertising. Sixty-two percent of daily radio listeners said they stay through host-read ads. The effect of a host endorsement also appears to carry beyond the host-read commercial itself. Among radio listeners, 54% said they are more likely to notice an ad after hearing a host endorsement, 56% are more likely to remember the brand, 49% are more likely to trust the ad, and 46% are more likely to consider buying. “Your hosts aren’t just why people tune in. They’re why people buy,” Rood said. “Nearly half of daily radio listeners say host-read ads strongly influence them to try or buy. That’s much more than just an ad. The data gives radio a strong case for treating talent as both a programming and advertising asset.” 

The research also suggested that radio’s opportunity extends well beyond its current heaviest users. Among the 26% of podcast consumers who do not listen to local radio weekly, 75% have listened to local radio before. Nearly half, 48%, still listen at least every few months. The findings suggest that much of this audience is better described as lapsed or light radio users than consumers who have completely abandoned the medium. 

The study also found that the host remains important among those lighter radio users. About half of consumers who listen to radio monthly or less said recognizing or liking a host can influence them to try a new podcast. “This is a useful reminder that radio already has a meaningful relationship with many of the consumers that podcast companies most want to deepen,” said Tim Bronsil, Owner and CEO of Point-To-Point Marketing. “A significant number of the people most willing to follow, join, and pay are already radio users. The opportunity is to give them more ways to engage with the host, the content, and the brand.” “The goal is not simply to create one more listener, download, or view,” Bronsil explained.

Additional information from The Podcast Study 2026 is available at ThePodcastStudy.com.

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SNAPS: America's Best Small Airport Has A Radio Station In Baggage Claim Area of The Terminal

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 20, 2026 - Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) topped USA TODAY’s 2026 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards as the Best Small Airport in America, rising from No. 2 in 2025. The ranking is especially meaningful for JVC Broadcasting, which has operated a live LI News Radio 103.9 FM studio in the airport’s baggage claim area since 2013. The glass-fronted studio puts live radio in the middle of daily airport activity, with travelers watching broadcasts and local leaders stopping by for interviews.

“Most broadcasters spend a fortune trying to get their stations in front of people,” said JVC President and CEO John Caracciolo. “We decided years ago to put our radio station where the people already are.” Since 2019, JVC has also served as the airport’s advertising concession partner, combining live radio, digital ads, and other media to connect local businesses with travelers. The company used its stations and platforms to promote the airport’s 10Best campaign.

" At a time of industry consolidation and reduced physical presence, JVC continues to emphasize local visibility and community ties,: said Caracciolo. "The airport win reinforces that approach: “Get out of the building. Get involved in your community. Do things differently.” He added that JVC has more plans for its partnership with the airport.

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Premiere Networks Launches 'Animal Thunderdome With Clay Travis And Danny G'

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 21, 2026 - Premiere Networks has launched “Animal Thunderdome with Clay Travis and Danny G.” Hosted by Clay Travis - co-host of the Premiere Networks-syndicated talk radio program “The Clay & Buck Show” and founder of the sports media platform SportandState.com. He's join by veteran FOX Sports Radio producer Danny Garite.

Travis' former FOX Sports Radio program, “Outkick the Coverage,” “Animal Thunderdome” expands the feature into a dedicated weekly podcast. From viral wildlife stories and unbelievable attacks to bizarre escapes, unexpected heroes and the strange moments only nature can create, each episode mixes outrageous true stories with Travis' reactions, Danny G's latest discoveries, spirited debate and occasional expert insight to help explain what really happened.

“America has demanded that the ongoing battle between humans and animals not be ignored,” said Travis. “Danny G and I are excited to reunite and share these unbelievable stories with listeners every week. We are here to save the humans!” “Clay and I had a blast with Animal Thunderdome on FOX Sports Radio, and I'm excited to take the madness to a whole new level with Premiere!” said Garite. “There's never a shortage of unbelievable man-versus-animal stories!”

“Animal Thunderdome” is distributed by iHeartPodcasts. New episodes will be released weekly on iHeartRadio and everywhere podcasts are heard, and full video episodes are available on YouTube.

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KROQ’s Iconic 'Almost Acoustic Christmas' Returns To KIA Forum In Los Angeles On December 12

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 21, 2026 - KROQ (KROQ-FM), Audacy’s alternative rock station in Los Angeles, is bringing one of Southern California’s most enduring music traditions back for its 35th year. KROQ Almost Acoustic Christmas returns to the Kia Forum on December 12, featuring performances by Foo Fighters, Weezer, Sublime, Interpol, Joyce Manor, Julia Wolf, Almost Monday and The Linda Lindas. The annual event unites generations of alternative music fans while giving back to the local community, with proceeds benefiting Para Los Niños and Al Wooten Jr. Youth Center.

“Almost Acoustic Christmas has always been about the bands and their connection with our listeners,” said Kevin Weatherly, Senior Vice President of Programming, KROQ. “That’s what makes this show so special, and we’re incredibly grateful to the artists who take the time to be part of it. Celebrating 35 years of this together is pretty amazing. And to be able to give back to two great organizations supporting local youth makes it that much more meaningful.”

lmost Acoustic Christmas sponsors include Southern California Kia Dealers and San Bernardino International Airport. Media interested in covering the event on-site.

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Audacy's Star 94 Atlanta Debuts 'The Mega Show' Featuring Bret Mega And Anna Bohlmann

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 20, 2026 - Audacy's Star 94 (WSTR-FM) in Atlanta, has officially added “The Bret Mega Show” co-hosted by Bret Mega and Anna Bohlmann to its weekday lineup.

“Bret and AB bring an authentic, high-energy connection to the airwaves every morning that listeners will instantly resonate with,” said JR Ammons, Brand Manager, Star 94. “I couldn’t be prouder of how ‘The Bret Mega Show’ continues to evolve by bringing their big laughs and real talk to Atlanta mornings. This marks an exciting new chapter for Star 94.”

“The Bret Mega Show” can also be heard on: 99.7 The Point (KZPT-FM) in Kansas City: 6:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. CT X, Facebook and Instagram Y98 (KYKY-FM) in St. Louis: 6:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. CT X, Facebook and Pentagram 105.3 The Buzz (KFBZ-FM) in Wichita: 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. CT.

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Celina Martinez Joins YEA Media Group's 'Tino Cochino Show'

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 20, 2026 - The Yea Media Group nationally syndicated Tino Cochino Show continues its evolution with the addition of Celina Martinez. Celina joins the TCS after 4 years at iHeart's KHKS in Dallas where she hosted middays. Before that she hosted pm drive in Tucson at KRQ while simultaneously doing middays on KHUD 92.9 The Bull.

Celina commented "To say that I'm grateful for this opportunity is an understatement. Ever since I started my radio career seven years ago, I've dreamed of being part of a team, and joining The Tino Cochino Show is truly a dream come true. I'm so excited for the opportunity to connect with our audience across the country and bring my own personality, humor, and perspective to a show that already has so much of it. I can't wait to see what we create together!"

Tino added “The success of this show has always been built on personality, chemistry, and authenticity. Celina brings all three. She has a natural confidence, a fresh perspective, and an energy that I think is going to connect with our audience in a big way. We’re at a really exciting point in the evolution of this brand. We’re expanding what we create, how we create it, and where people can experience it. "

"The Tino Cochino show is available for all dayparts via barter. Hit Mikey@tinocochinoshow.com or Scott@Yeamediagroup.com to get the TCS on-air and their social content on your station today.

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Legendary Boston Host Carter Alan Announces Retirement From WZLX-FM After 47-Years

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 20, 2026 - iHeart Boston announced the upcoming retirement of legendary Boston radio personality Carter Alan from 100.7 WZLX, Boston’s Classic Rock, after 47 years. Alan will continue to host his weekday midday show from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m where he'll host his final show on Friday, December 18, 2026.

His career began at the former WBCN where he spent 19 years as a DJ and music director, helping launch the Rock ‘n’ Roll Rumble, the longest running battle of the band’s competition in the United States. He is also credited with helping introduce U2 to American radio in 1980 by playing “I Will Follow” on air. In 1998, Alan joined 100.7 WZLX, where he has served as Assistant Program Director and midday host, building a lasting legacy in the industry.

“After 47 remarkable years in Boston radio at WZLX and WBCN, it’s time for my boot heels to be wanderin’! What an endless parade of friends, characters, stars and hopefuls; I’ve met and interviewed seemingly everyone,” said Alan. “Time to move over, rover! Retirement means no schedule and staying up as long as I want - I’m ready for that!” Chris Tyler, WZLX Program Director and co-host of The Chuck Nowlin Morning Show, will take over middays.

“Working with Carter for the past decade has been one of the highlights of my career,” says Tyler. “He's a legendary talent, and an even better human being. It's been a true honor. Rock on Carter!” To celebrate Alan’s career, WZLX will air a special retrospective featuring highlights from the audio and photo archives, with additional content available on WZLX’s social media accounts.

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Radio One Houston Announces Leadership And Programming Changes, Plus Welcomes Bay Bay To The 97.9 The Box

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 20, 2026 - Radio One Houston has announced a series of strategic programming leadership appointments across KMJQ-FM Majic 102.1 and KBXX-FM 97.9 The Box. As part of these changes, Yonni Rude (shown), formerly Program Director for 97.9 The Box, has been promoted to Operations Manager for Radio One Houston and Dallas.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to lead the programming efforts across both Houston and Dallas, working alongside the talented teams in each market to showcase the best voices, personalities, and content our cities have to offer. Our goal is to continue building strong, relevant programming that reflects the unique culture of each community, connects with our listeners, and reinforces the powerful brands we represent."

"Houston radio veteran and Texas Radio Hall of Famer The Madd Hatta, currently the station's afternoon drive host, will step into the role of Program Director. Supporting the station's programming efforts will be India “Queen Indy Bee” Brewton, who will serve as Assistant Program Director/Music Director (APD/MD) for both KRNB-FM in Dallas and KMJQ-FM in Houston. At KBXX-FM 97.9 The Box, JQue, host of “Good Morning H-Town” morning show, will take the reins as Program Director. Theo “Big Bink” Turner will serve as Assistant Program Director/Music Director (APD/MD) for both KBFB-FM in Dallas and KBXX-FM in Houston.

In another major programming announcement, radio icon Bay Bay is joining the 97.9 The Box family. Beginning October 19, 2026, The Bay Bay Show officially took over afternoon drive. “Everything is bigger in Texas, and that includes our vision, our talent, and the way we think about radio! These changes reflect our commitment to delivering fresh, relevant, and engaging content that speaks to the unique spirit of the communities we serve while continuing to push our brands forward,” remarked Doug Abernethy, Regional Vice President.

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Audacy Flips To Country In Philadelphia With US 96.5

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 20, 2026 - Starting this week, Audacy has launched US 96.5 in Philadelphia, delivering a mix of the biggest country hits and newest releases, including music from top artists such as Morgan Wallen, Ella Langley, Luke Combs and Jelly Roll. The new US 96.5 is commercial-free until October 24 and begins its weekday programming on October 26.

“Country music has a special way of connecting people, and we are excited to bring a brand-new destination to this important market,” said Tim Roberts, Country Format Vice President, Audacy. “Adding US 96.5 in Philadelphia expands our footprint and brings even more world-class entertainment to our listeners - it’s a terrific addition to Audacy’s strong station lineup in the city.” US 96.5 is Audacy’s 24th country station.

It debuts the following weekday programming lineup beginning October 26. 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. ET: “Katie and Company” 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. ET: “Coop” 7:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. ET: “Rob and Holly” 12:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. ET: “Mo and StyckMan” The station will shortly announce a new morning show that will air weekdays from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

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Connoisseur Rebrands WWUZ As 96.9 The Cannon In Fredericksburg, VA

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 20, 2026 - Connoisseur Media has launched 96.9 The Cannon (WWUZ-FM) in Fredericksburg, VA, introducing a new identity and expanded Rock format that combines the station's established Classic Rock library with rock hits from the past 25 years.

The rebranding marks a new era for WWUZ, which has been the go-to Classic Rock station for Fredericksburg since October 1998. The evolution builds on almost three decades of heritage while expanding the station's musical range to appeal to a wider audience of rock fans.

The Cannon name pays tribute to Fredericksburg's rich history and its significant role in the Civil War, giving the station a distinctly local identity to match its expanded sound. "As P.O.D. sang, 'Here comes the boom!'" said Ian Rambo, Operations Manager. "We're taking the rock our listeners already love and we're giving them more of it! From the classics that built the format to the biggest rock hits of the past 25 years. If it rocks, it belongs on The Cannon. The name is a nod to Fredericksburg's history, and the sound is built for the people who live here. The frequency hasn't changed, but everything else just got a little louder."

The station's local programming team includes award-winning personalities Brady DeAngelo, a six-time Virginia Association of Broadcasters award winner, and Rambo, a five-time National Association of Broadcasters Marconi Radio Award nominee and one-time winner.

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'This Morning, America’s First News With Gordon Deal' Adds 20 New Affiliates

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 20, 2026 - This Morning, America’s First News with Gordon Deal celebrates 325 affiliates with the latest surge of 20 new affiliates including KMOX St. Louis, WCCO Minneapolis, and KMBX Las Vegas. “It's both humbling and motivating to grow listenership and find new partners. We promise to continue leading in the news space," said Gordon Deal, host, This Morning, America's First News.

“Gordon Deal is a great fit for KMOX and our commitment to keeping St. Louis informed. He delivers smart, engaging coverage of the stories that matter, giving our listeners a strong start to their day.” — Steve Moore, Brand Manager, KMOX “I remember being an 'early adopter' of Gordon's content and shows way back to the Wall Street Journal Radio days, so I've been a big fan of his for many years. We are thrilled that this program is available for our fans at WCCO to wake up to...a comprehensive 'scene-setter' and primer for the day!” — Brad Lane, PD, WCCO.

This Morning, America’s First News with Gordon Deal is produced and distributed by Compass Media Networks. The program broadcasts daily and is also available on weekends via 325 news/talk stations in 91 of the top 100 markets and covering over 92% of the country*. To find out more about availability in your market contact Robert Blum at rblum@compassmedianetworks.com . *Nielsen Data Spring 2026

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Rob Wagman Joins SonicTrek To Launch 'Manna'

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 20, 2026 - SonicTrek Media has named veteran programmer and consultant Rob Wagman to lead Manna, its new fully localized Contemporary Christian format featuring on-air personality Sparkle.

Designed as a market-specific alternative to traditional syndicated programming and generic voice-tracking, Manna pairs SonicTrek’s localization technology with real radio personalities, customized content, and music strategies tailored to each affiliate and its audience.

Wagman brings extensive mainstream and Christian radio experience. He worked on-air, in programming, and as VP of Marketing in Alternative, Top 40, Urban, and Classic Rock formats across Tampa, New Orleans, Charlotte, Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York. In 2013 he joined KFSH/Los Angeles, helping the station post some of its strongest ratings in Los Angeles and Orange County, before serving as Network Program Director for WAY-FM. He is also known for creating localized, customized music charts used in Christian, Country, and Pop radio.

SonicTrek Managing Partner and CEO/Formats Division Joel Denver said Wagman was the company’s first choice for the format. “Rob understands both great radio and the mission behind Christian radio,” Denver said. “He immediately grasped what we’re building: using real personalities and their AI personas to deliver timely, localized content while keeping the warmth and connection that great radio requires."

For information on bringing Manna to your market, contact Rob Wagman at Rob@SonicTrek.ai or (646) 745-4290.

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Condolences: Rod Calarco, Longtime Industry Executive, Has Passed Away At 79

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 20, 2026 - Rod Calarco, longtime industry leader, beloved husband, father, and storyteller, passed away on October 12, 2026. He was 79. His signature words of wisdom came to be known as “Rodisms.” Whether offering sage advice, sharing a story, or simply making people laugh, Rod made an impact on everyone in his sphere. Family was important to Rod and he loved his time with them, especially during the holidays.

Professionally, Rod built a distinguished career spanning some of the most prominent brands in radio. Rod spent 28 years at CBS Radio, beginning as a salesperson at WCBS-AM before rising to Vice President and General Manager of WCBS-FM, where he led the station during its ascent to No. 1 and met his future wife of 26 years, Cathleen (Cathy) Kelly Calarco. He subsequently became Vice President and Group Head, overseeing operations across CBS-owned and operated FM radio stations. Although his last position at CBS was the most prestigious, WCBS-FM was always his heart and soul.

His career also included positions at ABC Television, CBS-owned WCAU-AM in Philadelphia, CBS-owned KRQR-FM in San Francisco and The CBS National Sales Rep Firm in Chicago. He later joined WorldSpace International Radio, an early satellite radio venture that paved the way for the satellite radio services that followed.

A funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 920 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains, NY, on Tuesday, October 27, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

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Cumulus Successfully Emerges From Chapter 11; Will Remain Under Its Existing Management Team

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 19, 2026 - Cumulus Media Inc. announced that it has successfully completed its financial restructuring and emerged from the Chapter 11 reorganization process, following receipt of all required approvals, including from the Federal Communications Commission. The restructuring was completed on an accelerated timeline consistent with the Company's original expectations, and Cumulus continued to operate in the ordinary course throughout the process, with no disruption to operations, audiences, or advertisers.

Mary G. Berner, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cumulus Media said, "I am grateful to our lenders and noteholders for their collaboration throughout this process, and to our employees, vendors, affiliates, customers, and partners for their continued trust and support. Emerging with a significantly stronger balance sheet, we are more committed than ever to providing engaging content across our national footprint, serving as a lifeline and voice for the local communities we serve, driving meaningful growth for our advertising partners, and delivering value for our new shareholders."

Upon completing its restructuring and emerging from Chapter 11 as a privately owned company, Cumulus has appointed a new Board of Directors and will remain under the leadership of its existing management team. As previously announced, Cumulus and certain of its subsidiaries commenced a prepackaged Chapter 11 process in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas on March 4, 2026, pursuant to a comprehensive restructuring support agreement with a group of its lenders.

Under the terms of the Company's confirmed plan of reorganization, Cumulus has canceled 100% of its existing funded indebtedness — approximately $600 million — in exchange for 100% of the Company's reorganized equity and $50 million of new convertible notes issued to former lenders. The Company also amended and restated its asset-based revolving credit facility to provide continued liquidity going forward. Read complete report HERE

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Ellen K Among Honorees At Children’s Hospital LA's Historic $1.35 Billion Anniversary Campaign

Michael Bublé Delivers Special Performance at the Celebration Hosted by Gina Rodriguez And Honoring Ellen K and Kourtney & Justin Turner

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 19, 2026 - Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) celebrated a defining milestone in its 125-year history at the 2026 CHLA Gala, announcing the successful completion of its landmark Anniversary Campaign, which raised a record-breaking $1.35 billion to advance pediatric care, research, and education for generations to come.

Held at The Event Deck at L.A. Live, the gala brought together philanthropists, community leaders, celebrities, patients, and supporters to celebrate the historic achievement while honoring radio personality Ellen K and philanthropists Kourtney and Justin Turner with the 2026 Courage to Care Award. The evening also featured a special performance by GRAMMY Award-winning global superstar Michael Bublé. Event host and Golden Globe Award-winning actress Gina Rodriguez kicked off the evening by sharing her personal experience as a patient parent, when her daughter, Lucy, came to the Neurological Institute at CHLA for care.

"On behalf of everyone at CHLA, it is my pleasure to thank Nikki DeLoach and Jeff Worthe for so beautifully leading the Campaign," said CHLA Senior Vice President and Chief Development Officer Alexandra Carter. "I would also like to recognize Jimmy Kimmel, Sugar Ray Leonard, Chuck Lorre, and Jamie Lee Curtis for serving as Honorary Campaign Chairs. Most importantly, it is generous individuals like all of you, who ensure CHLA will have a brilliant future for the next 125 years." Bottom Photo L-R: Ellen K, Michael Buble, Ryan Manno & John Peake

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Cumulus Indianapolis Debuts 'The Morning Mix With Toni & Ryan' On 107.9 The Mix/WNTR-FM

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 19, 2026 - Cumulus Media announces that Adult Contemporary station 107.9 The Mix/WNTR-FM in Indianapolis debuts a new local morning show today featuring well-known on-air personalities, Toni DeKeyser and Ryan Swiger as Co-Hosts. "The Morning Mix with Toni & Ryan” can be heard on 107.9 The Mix Monday through Friday from 6:00am-10:00am. Toni DeKeyser was previously a Producer and Co-Host on Cumulus Media sister Top 40 station 99.5 ZPL/WZPL-FM’s "Smiley Morning Show," as well as Midday Personality on 107.9 The Mix. She will continue to be heard on 99.5 ZPL in Middays.

Producer Will from the “Smiley Morning Show” and Midday Personality on 99.5 ZPL swaps Midday shows with DeKeyser and will host the 10:00am-3:00pm slot on 107.9 The Mix. In addition to his new role on the 107.9 Mix morning show, Ryan Swiger will continue to be heard on 99.5 ZPL weekdays from 3:00-7:00pm as Afternoon Drive Personality “Crash.”

Toni DeKeyser commented: "I couldn’t be more excited about this new morning show! We’re hoping to bring a fresh, upbeat energy to mornings — lots of positivity, fun and, hopefully, a reason to smile before you’ve even had your first cup of coffee." Ryan Swiger added: " Toni brings experience and a winning record to the show that can't be matched. I'm super excited to see what the future brings for The Mix Morning Show!”

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Chris Jones Joins CMG Atlanta As General Sales Manager

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 19, 2026 - Cox Media Group (CMG) announced that Chris Jones joined CMG as General Sales Manager for CMG Atlanta’s Radio cluster— 95.5 WSB, B98.5, 97.1 The River and KISS 104.1. Jones is a media veteran and comes to CMG from his role as SVP of Sales at IHeart Media.

“We’re excited to welcome Chris to an already exceptional sales team at CMG Atlanta. He brings fresh energy and proven leadership that will help us build on our momentum and raise the bar even higher,” said Kris Hackett Lucas, CMG Atlanta Director of Sales. “I’m confident Chris will make an immediate impact—creating new opportunities for our clients, inspiring our team, and helping drive our sales organization forward.”

“I’m excited to join CMG Atlanta and honored to serve in this role,” Jones said. “I can’t wait to work alongside some amazing individuals combined with the top ranked stations in the market to leverage my relationships and deliver results for our partners.”

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Comrex Releases New FieldLink Cloud Subscription Service

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 19, 2026 - Comrex has officially released its new FieldLink Cloud subscription service. Introduced in 2025, the FieldLink sideline reporter codec from Comrex was designed to replace expensive wireless mic/IFB solutions and efficiently move audio to and from sideline reporters and the press box using smartphones.

\With a directional, private, wireless access point, sideline reporters use their smartphones to send and receive high-quality, low-delay audio using the free Comrex FieldTap app. FieldLink Cloud expands the reach of the FieldLink codec by providing more connectivity options such as 4G/5G, and public Wi-Fi services. An additional upgrade, FieldLink Studio, is now available to allow FieldLink to also be your connection back to the studio. Compatible with all Comrex IP codecs, FieldLink can send and receive audio to/from the public Internet, while simultaneously handling sideline reporter audio.

FieldLink and Comrex’s suite of broadcast reliable products will be on display at the NAB New York Show October 21st and 22nd at the Javits Convention Center. Visit Comrex at Booth 445 and register for a free guest pass by using code . ‘NS4695’ For more information on FieldLink or other Comrex products, visit the Comrex website at or contact Comrex at 1-978-784-1776 (Monday through Friday, 9AM to 5PM EDT) or email.

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MIW's Upcoming Webinar Explores How Radio Hosts Are Putting AI to Work

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 19, 2026 - Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. (MIW) is reminding radio professionals to register for its upcoming free webinar, AIfor Content Creators, taking place Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET / 11:00 AM PT. As artificial intelligence continues to reshape how content is developed, produced and distributed, this timely discussion will bring together radio personalities and programmers who are actively using AI to enhance creativity, streamline workflows and connect with audiences across broadcast, digital, social and podcast platforms.

AI for Content Creators When: Wednesday, October 28 AT 2:00 PM ET / 11:00 AM PT . IT will be Moderated by MIW Board Member Meg Dowdy, Regional Content Director + National Contesting Director at Townsquare Media, the webinar will feature: Andre Yancey, Brand Manager, 102 JAMS (Audacy) Lauren “Lo” Sessions, Host & Digital Personality, Urban One / KKBQ Carolyn McArdle & Cort Johnson, Co-Hosts, The Morning Breeze (iHeartMedia San Francisco)

The webinar will feature a 45-minute panel discussion followed by a 15-minute audience Q&A. Registration is free. REGISTER HERE

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FREE WEBINAR: Jacobs Media Webinar To Answer Digital Revenue Questions Ahead of 2027

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 19, 2026 - Jacobs Media will host "Digital Revenue Questions Answered for 2027," a free 45-minute webinar for broadcasters, on Monday, November 2 at 2:00 PM ET / 11:00 AM PT. The session follows Jacobs Media's July webinar, "10 Things We Learned Helping Radio Stations Build Digital Revenue," which drew far more questions than the hosts could answer. This time, broadcasters take over.

With most stations finalizing 2027 budgets now, it's the right time to get answers before plans are locked in. "Digital revenue generation is one of the most important and dynamic areas for radio station growth," said Chris Brunt, director of digital revenue, Jacobs Media. "We've been working with many stations at all stages of their development and success, and at every level, there are a lot of questions because this is a departure from the way radio and television have been sold for decades."

Questions submitted by Wednesday, October 28 will be on the list, and more can be asked live. The webinar will be hosted by Jacobs Media VP/GM Paul Jacobs and will feature Chris Brunt.

REGISTER HERE

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NAB Show New York Set To Kickoff Next Week With 250 Exhibitors, 60+ Sessions And More

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 16, 2026 - NAB Show New York 2026 returns Oct. 21–22 at the Javits Center as the East Coast’s hands-on marketplace for media technology buyers. Roughly 250 companies will participate, including at least 37 first-time exhibitors and about 23% international firms, covering production, AI, streaming, cloud, infrastructure and related tools.

Production remains the largest category (about 42% of exhibitors), followed by infrastructure/IT/security (33%) and asset management, automation or media supply chain solutions (roughly 25% each). Streaming (66 companies), cloud (51) and remote production (42) technologies are increasingly integrated, while at least 33 firms highlight AI and machine learning applications.

The show also offers about 64 hours of programming on investment, creator businesses, sports economics and practical AI, with theater sponsors including CNN Newsource, Electric Sheep, Katapy, MM Digital Collective and Shure. “The show floor is a real-time look at where media organizations are investing,” said Karen Chupka, EVP, Global Connections and Events at NAB. “NAB Show New York gives buyers an opportunity to compare solutions and talk directly with the companies building what comes next.”

Buyers are expected to make up 80% of attendees, including more than 3,300 executive buyers. Corporate and brand studios represent the largest segment (29%), followed by film/TV professionals (18%), content creators (17%) and broadcasters (15%). Registration for NAB Show New York 2026 is still open.

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Megan Moroney, Michelle Branch, Bebe Rexha And Ashe Headline Audacy’s We Can Survive Concert

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 16, 2026 - Audacy’s We Can Survive, presented by VEG, ER for Pets, makes its New York debut at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, NY, for its 13th annual concert on October 28, featuring performances by Megan Moroney, Michelle Branch, Bebe Rexha and Ashe.

Funds raised from the annual celebration of music and mental health will benefit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and support Audacy’s “I’m Listening” mental health initiative, which encourages open conversations about mental health and reminds people they are not alone.

It takes place on Wednesday, October 28.

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KISW 99.9 Seattle's The Daly Migs Show To Spend The Night In Long-Rumored Haunted Hotel Room

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 16, 2026 - Things are about to get spooky for The Daly Migs Show! On Thursday, October 22nd, Taryn, Migs and Danny V. are spending the night at Seattle's historic Hotel Sorrento…in the infamous Room 408, rumored to be one of the most haunted hotel rooms in the country!

Will they make it through the night? Will they encounter a ghost? Or will Migs spend the entire night trying to prove the place isn't haunted? Then on Friday, October 23rd, listeners are invited to come hang out, hear all about their overnight experience in Room 408, and see if the Daly Migs show survived their night in one of Seattle's most legendary haunted hotels.

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The Flag/92.3 FM Fargo Adds The Clay & Buck Show To Its Weekday Lineup

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 16, 2026 - Flag Family Media announced the addition of The Clay & Buck Show to Fargo’s AM 1100 The Flag/92.3 FM (WZFG-AM), effective immediately. 'Clay Travis and Buck Sexton are proven winners, and we are thrilled to welcome their show to our Flag Family team," said Scott Hennen, Co-Owner of Flag Family Media. "The combination of our proven local talk programming and Clay and Buck will be unbeatable."

“Buck and I have very different backgrounds, but we work well together since we share three key things: we’re smart, fun and sane,” shared Travis. “Sounds simple enough, but you’d be surprised how lacking that is out there! Listening to us is guaranteed learning, laughing and sanity-restoring. Happy to bring it to Fargo!”

“We are thrilled to be part of the Flag Family,” added Sexton. “The Wall Street Journal recently described us as having ‘buddy-cop energy’ and I think that sums it up well. We’re a couple of guys who also happen to be dads that you could hang out with at a BBQ. We’re huge patriots, love our families, and make laughter part of the program every day. We couldn’t be happier and more humbled to add Fargo as an affiliate.”

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Emma Klipstein’s Podcast 'Too Much' Joins iHeartPodcasts

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 16, 2026 - Media personality, entrepreneur and creator Emma Klipstein announced that her hit podcast “too much.” has joined iHeartPodcasts marking a major milestone for a show she launched independently from the ground up in January 2025.

“There is something incredibly surreal about building this show from the ground up and now getting to say that ‘too much.’ is an iHeartPodcast,” said Klipstein. “When I started over in January 2025, there was no guarantee any of this was going to work. I just knew I had something to say and was willing to bet on myself enough to build it. To go from wearing every hat because I had to, to having the largest podcast network behind the show feels like proof that sometimes starting over isn’t actually starting from zero — it’s starting with everything you learned the first time.”

“For so much of my life, ‘too much’ was something I thought I needed to fix about myself,” Klipstein added. “This show turned it into the thing that built my career. The thing you’re being told to make smaller might actually be the thing you’re supposed to build bigger.”

“Too Much” with Emma Klipstein is now distributed by iHeartPodcasts. New episodes are released weekly and are available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard. Video episodes will be available on iHeart and YouTube.

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Radio Vet' Jeremy Robinson Expands JPR Multimedia With Jeremy FM Launch

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 16, 2026 - Jeremy FM features the country music of the 70s, 80s, and 90s, along with artist spotlights, behind-the-song stories, country music history, and plenty of personality.

Our tagline is 'Big Country. Big Personality.' Jeremy Robinson also explains there's also a special reason behind the launch date. "Thursday was my grandfather's 98th birthday. He's the man who introduced me to radio when I was a little boy. I used to grab sticks from the yard and pretend to interview him, and he eventually took me to our hometown radio station, where my broadcasting career began."

Robinson says his grandfather also grew up listening to the Grand Ole Opry, sometimes having to go underneath his house because that was the only place he could get reception on his radio. "I grew up hearing those stories, and his love of radio and country music has stayed with me all these years."

The station is already streaming at JeremyFM.com, and our dedicated mobile app is being introduced as part of yesterday's official public launch.Jeremy Robinson Founder & CEO | JPR Multimedia Nationally Syndicated Radio Personality JeremyFM.com

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CRB/CRS Now Accepting Applications For The Rusty Walker Scholarship 

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 16, 2026 - Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB) is now accepting applications for the Rusty Walker Scholarship, offering one first-time attendee the opportunity to experience Country Radio Seminar (CRS) 2027.

Established in 2012 in honor of the late Rusty Walker, the scholarship recognizes promising radio professionals and provides opportunities to connect, learn, and grow within the country music industry. The deadline to apply is Thursday, Nov. 12. REGISTER HERE

Eligibility is limited to full-time radio station employees who will be attending CRS for the first time. To be considered, applicants must complete the online application and submit an essay of no more than 500 words explaining why they should be selected as this year’s recipient. Interested parties can apply here. The recipient will be recognized during CRS 2027, and receive a package that includes full registration to the event, round-trip airfare to Nashville, and hotel accommodations at the Omni Nashville Hotel.

CRS 2027, scheduled for March 17–19, For more information, visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com and follow CRS on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also call 615-327-4487

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Edison: How Voters Of Different Political Groups Spend Their Daily Audio Time

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 14, 2026 - As November 3 approaches, the latest Share of Ear® data from Edison Research at SSRS reveals meaningful differences in how political groups spend their audio time — and a new Crosstab Explorer feature lets subscribers dig into those differences (and many others) with a few clicks. Republicans devote 41% of their daily audio time to AM/FM radio, ten points more than Democrats or Independents. Independents, meanwhile, allocate the highest share to podcasts (15%), while Democrats edge out the others on streaming music (27%).

The Share of Ear team recently added a new feature within its interactive dashboard platform: The Crosstab Explorer. Subscribers are now able to toggle among a variety of different crosstabs (Party ID, age, gender, ethnicity, location, and daypart) and listening usage categories (audio platform, online audio service, ad-supported vs. ad-free, location, content, and device) to compare usage across audience segments.

Our insight this week uses the Crosstab Explorer dashboard to better understand how Republicans, Democrats, and Independents spend time with audio. AM/FM Radio (which includes over-the-air and streams) accounts for 41% of daily audio time for Republicans and 31% of time for both Independents and Democrats. Streaming Music is the second-most listened-to platform and has less of a spread across political parties; Democrats spend 27% of their daily audio time with Streaming Music platforms, Independents spend 25%, and Republicans spend 21% of their daily audio time with Streaming Music.

As of our latest release, Democrats and Republicans spend a similar percentage of their daily audio time listening to podcasts with Independents devoting the largest share of their time on podcasts, at 15% of time.

Contact our team today to learn more about how audio can be used strategically to reach and engage specific audience segments. Email info@edisonresearch.com to talk to a member of our team today.

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The Bret Mega Show To Split Between 2 Markets; Will Still Air On Y98, 'Just Look A Little Different'

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 - Audacy's popular Bret Mega Show which originates from Y98/KYKY St. Louis, posted on Instagram that Bret Mega and co-host Anna “AB” Bohlmann are moving to a new city to continue with their show, while co-host Hannah Gibbs and executive producer Kevin Berghoff will remain in St. Louis.⁠ According to the post: “The Bret Mega Show will still air on Y98, it will just look a little different.”

Bret Mega joined Y98 in April 2021 as morning co-host following stints at Hot 93.3 in Dallas and Power 96.1 in Atlanta, among others. In September 2023, Hannah Gibbs joined Mega and executive producer Kevin Berghoff. The show was rebranded as The Bret Mega Show, with Anna “AB” Bohlmann added to the show. Starting in 2024, Audacy expanded the show to Kansas City's 99.7 The Point/KZPT, 105.3 The Buzz/KFBZ in Wichita, and added mornings on The New 96.5/WTDY in Philadelphia in 2025.⁠

Amid Audacy’s pending sale of its St. Louis cluster to Hoffmann Media Group, all indications suggests Bret & Anna are moving to Atlanta's Star 94 which has been without a permanent morning show since August 2026. This would allow for them to continue its national syndication while maintaining their presence in St. Louis.

The Instagram post added: "One thing isn’t changing: we’re all still connected, still working together, and still here for YOU. We can’t wait to share what’s next with you! This is just the beginning.

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The Wolf Welcomes Deerock's Club Rodeo Country Takeover To Weekend Lineup

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 - Connoisseur Media Long Island's WWWF-FM/103.1 The Wolf has added New York-based DJ and producer Deerock to its weekend lineup with Club Rodeo Country Takeover. The new mix show airs regularly on Fridays at 5 p.m. with Robby Bridges to kick off the weekend, and Saturdays at midnight for a full hour of high-energy country mixes.

The New York-based artist has generated more than 232 million career streams through his original releases, viral mashups and remixes, building a national following while bridging the worlds of country and electronic dance music. His live performance credits include major music events such as Stagecoach, EDC Las Vegas, CMA Fest and ACM Awards activations, where he has introduced his distinctive sound to audiences across both genres.

"Deerock is one of the New York area's best mixers who loves, understands and specializes in high-energy country mixes," said Bridges, Program Director of 103.1 The Wolf. "We're pumped to kick up the fun on weekends by adding him to our roster!"

"I'm excited to bring my passion for music to The Wolf and help bring music to the masses!" said Deerock. The addition of Club Rodeo Country Takeover brings a new dimension to The Wolf's weekend programming, combining the station's country music format with Deerock's signature dance-driven mixes and strong New York connections. Club Rodeo Country Takeover airs Fridays at 5 p.m. and Saturdays at midnight on 103.1 The Wolf (WWWF-FM).

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Audacy Partners With 'We Do Not Care Club' Founder Melani Sanders For Podcast Series

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 - Audacy announced a partnership with Melani Sanders, founder of the viral We Do Not Care ClubⓇ movement, New York Times bestselling author, speaker, creator, and entrepreneur. Along with Best Case Studios, Sanders will produce and Audacy will handle sales and distribution for “The We Do Not Care Club Podcast,” a series featuring candid, unfiltered conversations about midlife, menopause, health, wellness, relationships, reinvention, and more.

PEOPLE’s 2025 Creator of the Year, Sanders has built a global community of more than 7.6 million followers across social platforms. Her We Do Not Care ClubⓇ movement has become a space where women come together to talk openly about the experiences, challenges, and opportunities that come with midlife. “The We Do Not Care Club Podcast with Melani Sanders” will launch on October 21, 2026, on YouTube and everywhere podcasts are available.

“I had reached my limit with the demands of life. I was tired of being everything to everybody, and I just needed somebody to hear me. When I hit record that day, I had no idea what was about to come out of my mouth. I ended up inviting women who understood me to join me in starting a club,” said Melani Sanders. “We would name it the We Do Not Care Club (WDNC). I hit publish, and the rest is history. What started as one woman having a moment became a Global Movement rooted in SISTERHOOD, and I’m excited to partner with Audacy and Best Case to bring this show to life.”

“Melani has turned a conversation women were having in private into a movement millions are proud to be part of. The We Do Not Care Club community is deeply engaged, highly relatable, and unafraid to have the conversations that matter to women,” said Leah Reis-Dennis, Head of Podcasts, Audacy. “Melani’s humor and honesty create a space where listeners and viewers can laugh, learn, and feel seen, while giving advertisers an authentic way to connect with women around the topics that matter to them.”

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Newstalk 580/105.9 KMJ And Gar Raise More Than $400,000 For California Food Bank

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 - Cumulus Media Fresno’s NewsTalk 580/105.9 KMJ recently teamed with local agriculture company Gar Inc. for the 2026 Annual Feeding Families Fund Drive, to raise funds for the Central California Food Bank - and WOW did KMJ listeners respond!

During a day-long broadcast on September 18th at The Market, KMJ listeners came through with amazing generosity, donating nearly $300,000. Fresno Madera Farm Credit/CoBank chipped in an additional $30,000 while Gar Inc. added a whopping $100,000 - bringing the total raised for the Central California Food Bank to $428,492. That equates to more than 1.7 million meals for the less fortunate in California’s San Joaquin Valley.

Patty Hixson, Vice President/Market Manager, Cumulus Fresno, commented: “Our community overwhelms me with its graciousness, and we are most grateful to the Gar team, who step up every year to assist us in continuing to care for our neighbors in need. It is such a blessing to have these incredible partners!”

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MIW Announces Its 3rd Annual Digital Sales Mentorship Program

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 - Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. announced the return of its Digital Sales Mentorship Program, now in its third year. The year-long program is designed to strengthen the digital expertise and leadership skills of women working in radio and digital media sales, providing one selected mentee with personalized, hands-on mentorship from an accomplished industry leader.

As digital continues to play an increasingly important role in how broadcasters engage audiences, serve advertisers and drive revenue, the program provides practical guidance across the platforms, strategies and skills shaping today’s media business. The selected mentee will receive monthly one-on-one coaching from an experienced mentor.

“Digital acumen is no longer a specialized skill in the broadcast industry, it’s an essential part of being an effective leader,” said Sheila Kirby, MIW Board President. “Today’s leaders need to understand how audiences are consuming content across platforms, how digital is creating new opportunities for advertisers and revenue, and how technology continues to reshape our business. This mentorship gives women the opportunity to strengthen those skills and apply them directly to their careers, positioning them to take on bigger roles and help shape where our industry goes next.”

Applications for the 2027 Digital Sales Mentorship Program are open now and will be accepted through November 6, 2026. Apply today to take the next step in your digital sales career.  Apply Here!

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SNAPS: 25 Former CBS News Radio Staff Members Take The Stage For 'Overall Excellence Award'

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 15, 2026 - Nearly five months after CBS shut down its service, twenty-five former staff members and colleagues took the stage together on Monday, October 12, to accept one of broadcast journalism’s highest honors, holding signs that read: “Fired for Overall Excellence." The moment at the Radio Television Digital News Association’s Edward R. Murrow Awards Gala at Gotham Hall was both a celebration of exceptional journalism and a reminder of the newsroom’s closure. CBS News Radio received the national awards for Overall Excellence and Best Newscast in the Network Radio catagory.

Among those accepting the honor were former Operations Manager Dustin Gervais, former Affiliate Sales Manager, Amy Bolton, former Executive Editor and unit manager Jennifer Brown, former Executive Editor Tara Lipinsky, and former Vice President and General Manager Craig Swagler, now CEO of Baltimore Public Media. They joined writers, producers, anchors, reporters, contributors and other colleagues whose work had informed audiences across America.

CBS announced the shutdown in March and ended the service on May 22, eliminating all positions within the audio team that was also responsible for much of the news divisions podcasts. The network supplied approximately 700 affiliated stations nationwide. CBS leadership cited economic pressures and changes in station programming strategies as reasons for the closure. According to Swagler, the service reached approximately 23 million weekly listeners. The awards carried particular historical significance. World News Roundup began on March 13, 1938, with a groundbreaking broadcast anchored by Robert Trout and featuring Edward R. Murrow reporting from Vienna.

Swagler said, "The signs held above their heads captured the bittersweet atmosphere of the evening—pride in their work, sorrow over its loss, and the painful irony of the words: “Fired for Overall Excellence.”

Special thanks to Craig N. Swagler for contributing this story

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[WATCH] Why Radio Matters In The Battle For The Commuter Vote - 'Nearly 90% Travel By Car'

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 14, 2026 - With Election Day approaching, Audacy’s Haley Teare-Lombardo and Ray Borelli recently spoke with Campaigns & Elections' Shane Greer about a growing challenge for political advertisers: how to reach more of the voters who matter without simply paying to reach the same people again. In the interview, they discuss new Audacy research with YouGov and MRI-Simmons that reveals why commuters may be a particularly important audience in the 2026 midterms — and how radio can help campaigns reach voters beyond traditional TV and digital buys.

The findings offer a compelling look at the intersection of economic anxiety, voter behavior and media consumption: The economy is top of mind: 59% of likely voters who commute say the economy and cost of living are the most important issues shaping their vote, rising to 73% among commuting homeowners with children.

Commuters are a significant audience: 78% of employed Americans commute at least two days a week, and nearly 90% travel by car. Radio reaches voters during the commute: AM/FM radio captures 82% of ad-supported audio listening during weekday commuting hours. Radio can extend TV/CTV reach: In the 2022 midterms, radio added 676,000 incremental voters (+10%) to John Fetterman’s TV/CTV reach in Pennsylvania and 659,000 (+18%) to Raphael Warnock’s in Georgia.

The interview offers a timely entry point into a broader story about how campaigns can navigate audience fragmentation, reach voters with pressing economic concerns and make their media investments work harder in the final weeks before Election Day.

Borelli said the company’s recent commuter study that found the economy is the No. 1 issue for voters this cycle isn’t surprising. But it’s the intensity of that feeling among voters who commute to work every day that campaigns have the opportunity to capitalize on. “We saw what everyone else was seeing – that the economy is by far the number one issues on the minds of voters heading to the polls this November,” Borelli said. “But when you isolate the people who are commuting to work, they’re feeling the pressure so much more and it shows up in the data. They’re more motivated to vote.” Watch the full interview HERE

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The Podcast Study 2026 Shows How 'Host Trust, Relationships And Superfans' Are Driving Revenue

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 14, 2026 - Traditional pre-roll and mid-roll inventory still matters, but the data is clear: simply loading more ads into shows is a limited strategy. In a national study of 1,205 U.S. podcast consumers, more than half (54.8%) already say podcasts carry too many ads, and only 8.6% would accept more advertising to keep shows free. At the same time, host-read ads substantially outperform prerecorded spots on influence, attention, trust, and purchase consideration. The opportunity is not just to make existing ads work harder, but to build direct audience relationships that unlock memberships, premium offerings, and other high-margin revenue streams.

Strategic Solutions Research along with Point-To-Point Marketing presented “Beyond the Pre-Roll: Revenue Opportunities Beyond Traditional Commercials” on Tuesday, examed how podcast companies can create more value from their audiences without simply adding more ad inventory. The Podcast Study 2026 is made possible with the support of Crooked Media, NPR, and PRX. Strategic Solutions Research and Point-To-Point Marketing. The national study of 1,205 U.S. podcast consumers showed that traditional advertising remains important, while also revealing opportunities to expand revenue through host-read advertising, memberships, premium offerings, events, and direct audience relationships.

“The opportunity here is bigger and more exciting than simply adding more ads,” said Hal Rood, Partner/EVP of Strategic Solutions Research. “Podcast companies have a chance to make existing advertising work harder while also creating new revenue through memberships, premium offerings, events, and direct audience relationships.” Another major focus was building the audience relationship before asking consumers to pay."

“For us, the next step is applying what we learned,” said Tim Bronsil, CEO of Point-To-Point Marketing. “We have much more knowledge now about how people discover content, what makes them stay, and what separates a highly engaged consumer from everyone else. We can use that intelligence to continue improving the audience development campaigns we build for our Point-To-Point Marketing clients.”

The Podcast Study 2026 webinar series will conclude October 20 with “What Radio Can Learn from Podcasting’s Trust Economy.” The free session will focus on findings relevant to radio leaders, programmers, personalities, and sellers, including trust, talent, advertising, host influence, and audience development. Registration and information are available at ThePodcastStudy.com.

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CMA Unveils Its 2026 Broadcast Award Winners

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 14, 2026 - Reigning CMA New Artist of the Year Zach Top surprised radio stations and broadcast hosts yesterday with personal calls to reveal this year’s recipients.

“Country radio is an important part of our ecosystem, and we’re delighted to celebrate the people who show up for their listeners and communities every day,” says Brittany Schaffer, incoming CMA CEO. “Congratulations to every personality and station, and thank you for all you do for Country Music.”

2026 CMA Broadcast Awards winners Include: 

CMA BROADCAST PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR:

WEEKLY NATIONAL “The Highway Hot 30 Countdown with Buzz Brainard” (Buzz Brainard) – SiriusXM

DAILY NATIONAL - “Big D & Bubba” (“Big D” Derek Haskins, “Bubba” Sean Powell, Carsen Humphreville, Jonathan Shaffer, and Garrett Freche) – Silverfish Media

MAJOR MARKET - “The Andie Summers Show” (Andie Summers, Jeff Kurkjian, Donnie Black, and Shannon Boyle) – WXTU, Philadelphia, Pa.

LARGE MARKET - "The Jesse & Anna Show” (Jesse Tack, Anna Marie, and Jake Thomson) – WUBE, Cincinnati, Ohio

MEDIUM MARKET - “Steve & Gina in the Morning on Kat 103.7” (Steve Lundy and Gina Melton) – KXKT, Omaha-Council Bluffs, Neb.-Iowa

SMALL MARKET - “Officer Don and DeAnn” (“Officer Don” Evans and DeAnn Stephens) – WBUL, Lexington, Ky. 

CMA RADIO STATION OF THE YEAR:

MAJOR MARKET - KSCS – Dallas-Ft. Worth, Texas

LARGE MARKET - WQDR – Raleigh-Durham, N.C.

MEDIUM MARKET - KXKT – Omaha-Council Bluffs, Neb.-Iowa

SMALL MARKET - WKML – Fayetteville, N.C.

“The 60th Annual CMA Awards,” hosted by Lainey Wilson will air live from Bridgestone Arena in Nashville Wednesday, Nov. 18 at 8/7c on ABC and Disney+, and the next day on Hulu. Winners of the CMA Broadcast Awards will also be recognized during the Pre-Telecast Ceremony earlier that evening, prior to the live primetime show.

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Mia Amor Returns To The Air For Afternoons In The Bay Area On Connoisseur's 102.9 KBLX

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 14, 2026 - Connoisseur Media announced the addition of Mia Amor to 102.9 KBLX, where she will host weekday afternoons from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., beginning Monday, October 19. Area listeners will recognize her from her time in San Francisco, where she was on the air from 2014 to 2018. Her career also includes positions with Sacramento and San Francisco.

"Mia is the perfect choice for 102.9," said Jim "Jazzy" Archer, Program Director of 102.9 KBLX. "She's Bay Area through and through, and that connection is something you can't teach. She knows the people, the culture and the energy that make this community so special because she's lived it her entire life. Mia brings an incredible spirit, genuine warmth and a dynamic presence to everything she does. We're thrilled to welcome her to the 102.9 family and bring her energy to afternoons."

Mia Amor began her radio career at 18 as a station intern and has since built a diverse background as an on-air personality, author, voice-over professional and event emcee. Beyond radio, she is actively involved in community initiatives and embraces the Bay Area's diverse culture, music and food scene. Her passion for live music, pop culture and connecting with listeners has remained central to her career.

102.9 KBLX features Freska and Big Reid in the Morning, Billy Vidal in middays, and with Mia joining the afternoon lineup, the station continues its commitment to delivering engaging personalities with strong ties to the communities it serves.

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Anna & Raven Reach 100 Affiliate Milestone With Addition Of KZNY-FM/Sunny 104.3 Phoenix And Warm 103.3 York

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 14, 2026 - Compass Media Network syndicated Anna & Raven, the nationally syndicated morning radio show, has reached a major milestone: 100 radio stations across the country. The milestone comes as Anna & Raven continues to expand its national footprint from their flagships at Connoisseur Media's WEZN-FM in Metro Fairfield, CT, and WALK-FM on Long Island, partnering with broadcasters in markets across America.

The show's latest affiliates extend its reach into communities including Phoenix AZ, York PA, Portland OR, Joliet Il, Youngstown OH, Lansing MI, Pocomoke City MD, St. George UT, and dozens more further establishing Anna & Raven as a growing force in nationally syndicated morning radio for AC, HOT AC, CHR and Classic Hits stations.

"Reaching 100 stations is an incredible milestone for Anna & Raven,” said Anna Zap. “We are grateful to the broadcasters who believe in us and to every listener that who lets us be part of their day. Growing relationships with our partners while sharing laughs with our listeners in more communities is a dream come true.” Raven adds "The fun of developing real relationships, sales success stories, and wins with our affiliates can't be overstated. The dream is alive!"

Ken Brentlinger, Sierra H Multimedia Owner, comments “I am happy to welcome the Anna & Raven Show to the growing Sunny 104.3. We know that morning drive sets the tone for listening throughout the day at work and the commute. I am looking forward to hearing them wake up the Valley!” Eric Rosado, Sierra H Multimedia Director of Content & Programming, adds “The Anna & Raven show was a no brainer for mornings on our new brand Sunny 104.3.

To find out more about the show and how to bring it to your market contact Nancy Abramson at nabramson@compassmedianetworks.com.

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Raheem Devaughn To Host “The Garden Of Love,” A New Nightly Radio Show From Urban One’s Reach Media And Radio On

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 14, 2026 - Urban One’s Reach Media and Radio One today announced the launch of “The Garden of Love,” a new nighttime radio show hosted by Grammy Award winning R&B artist Raheem DeVaughn. Premiering this past, the show will air Sunday - Thursday from 7 PM to midnight on Majic 102.3 WMMJ Washington, D.C.

"We are thrilled to have Raheem DeVaughn join the Urban One family. He brings an energy, talent set, and connection to our audience that is second to none," says Eddie Harrell, Jr., Co-President/Audio Division for Urban One. ”The Garden of Love” will provide our listeners with a unique experience as they settle in for great music and interaction on a nightly basis."

“Raheem DeVaughn brings an incredible passion for R&B and a natural ability to connect with people. With The Garden of Love, we're bringing that connection to nighttime radio through great music and meaningful conversations about love, relationships, and life. We want listeners to have a place to unwind, feel heard and end their day with Raheem,” said Colby Tyner, Senior Vice President of Programming for Urban One’s Radio One and Reach Media.

"Grateful to everyone who has supported my radio journey! This new chapter with Urban One is about building a new nighttime syndicated tradition and truly something special for the listeners. The future is bright, and we’re just getting started!" said Raheem DeVaughn.

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Civic Media Reaches Agreement To Acquire Station Assets In Iowa And Illinois

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 14, 2026 - Civic Media, Inc. has reached an agreement with Pritchard Broadcasting Corp., Titan Broadcasting, LLC, and Galesburg Broadcasting Company to acquire their Iowa and Illinois radio assets, with an application for the sale to be filed with the Federal Communications Commission.

Pritchard Broadcasting Corp., Titan Broadcasting, LLC, and Galesburg Broadcasting Company represent a legacy of locally focused radio broadcasting in the Midwest, with a longstanding commitment to serving their communities through trusted news, sports, community engagement, and locally relevant programming across their station portfolios.

Civic Media, Inc. is a Wisconsin-based radio network that prioritizes local and regional news with engaging conversation. Civic Media operates radio stations in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan.

KALIL & CO., INC. is the exclusive broker for this transaction.

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Art Vuolo's 'Massive Video Archive' Honored In The New Museum of Broadcast Communications

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 - One can only imagine the shock, surprise and tears when "Radio's Best Friend," Art Vuolo walked into the Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago last week while attending the 2026 Radio Hall of Fame ceremony and seeing this huge vertical tribute (shown).

It announced that his massive video archive of many of the greatest radio personalities to ever grace the airwaves will finally be available to fans and enthusiasts beginning in the fall of 2027! Now that the museum has been successfully relocated to 440 W. Randolph in the Windy City, this amazing display was erected to proclaim the good news.

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Audacy's KYW Newsradio Inducts Yadgaroff Into The KYW Hall of Fame

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 - Audacy's KYW Newsradio (103.9 FM and 1060 AM) has inducted longtime Philadelphia radio executive David Yadgaroff into the KYW Newsradio Hall of Fame, recognizing his decades of leadership, dedication and contributions to one of the region’s most trusted news organizations.

“David’s connection to KYW Newsradio spans more than three decades, and his impact on the station and the people who have worked here is immeasurable,” said Kristina Koppeser, Brand Manager, KYW Newsradio. “He has been a tremendous advocate for KYW, its journalists and its role in this community. This honor is a fitting recognition of a career defined by leadership, mentorship and an unwavering belief in the power of local radio.”

Yadgaroff joined KYW Newsradio’s sales department in 1992, rising through the organization to serve as Director of Sales, Vice President, General Manager, and ultimately Senior Vice President and Market Manager for Audacy Philadelphia. Throughout his career, he championed local radio, mentored colleagues and helped guide KYW Newsradio through an evolving media landscape while maintaining its commitment to trusted local journalism.

Yadgaroff retired from Audacy in May 2026 following a 36-year radio career. The KYW Newsradio Hall of Fame celebrates individuals whose passion, talent and dedication have helped shape the station’s enduring legacy of trusted journalism. Yadgaroff exemplifies that legacy through his leadership, his commitment to developing others and the lasting impact he has made on Philadelphia’s broadcasting community.

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Kathy 'KB' Brown Rises to VP/Urban Formats For Cumulus

Will Continue as PD/On-Air Talent for Z93 JAMZ/WWWZ-FM and Magic 107.3/ WMGL-FM in Charleston, SC

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 - Cumulus has promoted Kathy “KB” Brown to VP/Urban Formats. In her new role, Brown will serve as a senior programming leader for Cumulus Media, and will be a key resource for Cumulus Media’s 40 Urban-formatted radio stations across the U.S. She will oversee the programming of Cumulus Media’s Urban stations across four formats, Urban Mainstream, Urban AC, Classic Hip Hop, and Gospel. The promotion is effective immediately.

Brown, who joined Cumulus Media in 2017, is based in Charleston, SC, and will continue in her roles as Program Director and On-Air Talent for Cumulus Charleston Urban stations Z93 JAMZ/WWWZ-FM and Magic 107.3/WMGL-FM. A seasoned Urban programmer, Brown was previously Program Director and On-Air Personality for iHeart Media Urban stations KMJM-FM and KATZ-FM in St. Louis, MO. Prior to that, she was Assistant Program Director for CBS Radio (Audacy) Urban station V103/WVEE-FM in Atlanta, GA, also served Radio One as VP/Regional Program Director and Operations Manager for its seven-station cluster in Washington, D.C. and Baltimore, MD.

“By virtue of her veteran major-market leadership skills and perennial high achievement, KB became the clear choice of both our programming leaders and her peers in the Cumulus Urban fleet ,” said Brian Philips, Chief Programming Officer, Cumulus. “Kathy already wears much programming responsibility gracefully and successfully in her Charleston role and in the region. This confirms our trust in her proven steady guidance and her stellar reputation within Cumulus.” Kathy Brown commented:

"I am excited to join the Cumulus senior content leadership team. I am fortunate to support a stellar group of Urban programmers who oversee legendary stations. We will continue our legacy of excellence."

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Serina Perez Exits The Tino Cochino Show Following Six-Year Run

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 - Changes are underway On YEA Media Group's ’ “Tino Cochino Show” as co-host Serina Perez exits following a six-year run. Perez first joined the show in December of 2020 after a multi-year stint dat Audacy Phoenix.

In a video announcing her exit, she said in part, “I don’t know what this next chapter holds but I know how incredibly grateful I am for the people around me, the family and friends who continue to show up for me."

The Tino Cochino show addressed her departure in a social media post stating "Today marks the end of a chapter as Serina is no longer a part of The Tino Cochino Show. Serina has been a huge part of this show and our journey for many years. We’re incredibly grateful for everything she brought to the show – her energy, her personality, her contributions and the many laughs and memories we’ve shared along the way. We genuinely wish Serina nothing but success and happiness in her future endeavors. The Tino Cochino Show is entering an exciting new era, and we can’t wait to share what’s ahead with you all."

The show also announced earlier it's changing its name from “Tino Cochino Radio” to “The Tino Cochino Show” Reportedly, multiple new cast members will be added in the coming weeks as well.

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'B-Dub Saturday Nights' Comes To KSOP-FM Salt Lake City

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 - B-Dub Saturday Nights launched on KSOP-FM in Salt Lake City this past Saturday, October 10. ACM Award-winning host B-Dub brings big energy, great country music and his unmistakable personality to the weekend, building a Saturday night destination for country listeners.

Salt Lake City joins WWWF-FM Long Island, KPNW-FM Seattle, KUPL-FM Portland, KBAY-FM San Jose and KYGO-FM Denver. More on the show and affiliation at skyviewnetworks.com/b-dub.

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McVay Media Signs Coaching & Production with Myron Mullins

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 - Myron Mullins, a two-time author and former leader of multimillion-dollar enterprises, has launched a new mission focused on helping men—particularly former executives and high-achieving professionals—rediscover purpose, confront personal struggles, and build lives defined by faith, family, freedom, and intentionality.

His podcast, 'Regret Free with Myron Mullins,' extends his mission beyond the stage and coaching room, creating a space for honest conversations about the experiences that shape our lives. The podcast features conversations with entrepreneurs, executives, faith leaders, authors, and individuals who have faced adversity and found ways to move forward.

In 2006, Mullins surrendered his life to faith, beginning a transformation that would eventually lead him to turn his experiences—both the victories and the failures—into a platform for mentoring, coaching, speaking, and storytelling. His work addresses the often-overlooked challenges that can emerge after years of high-pressure leadership: isolation, addiction, loss of identity, regret, and the struggle to determine what comes next.

“Leadership can be a lonely and daunting assignment—transparency and vulnerability perceived as weakness and disqualifying. There is an amazing paradox that transcends these wrong beliefs that occur when people lay their insecurities aside for a greater life purpose that abides in each of us,” Mullins shares.

McVay Media President Mike McVay added “Ryan Kershner and I are honored to work with Myron and join this journey.” For testimonials, books, and more information about Myron Mullins' speaking and coaching programs, please visit www.myronmullins.com.

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Longtime Florida Host Doc Reno Inks Multi-Year Representation Agreement With Creative Talent

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 - Doc Reno, one of South Florida’s established radio personalities with a coast-to-coast broadcasting career spanning more than two decades, has entered into a multi-year representation agreement with Creative Talent led by President and CEO Steve Gallagher. The agreement will encompass Reno’s work across radio, podcasting, syndication, spokesperson opportunities and digital media, positioning the veteran broadcaster for continued growth across multiple platforms.

“Doc Reno is the hardest-working talent in broadcast media today,” said Steve Gallagher. “He has an incredible work ethic and is strongly loyal to his friends, family and the people he works with. Doc is a mega talent driven to create winning and great radio. There are exciting days ahead for Doc, and I am thrilled to be helping him get his message out!”

“Steve and I have been working together for over a decade, and I trust his judgment and guidance like no other,” said Reno. “He’s an exceptional person, and I’m honored we’re beginning a new multi-year agreement. Now, go get me something great!”

Reno previously hosted afternoon drive on Big 105.9 FM (WBGG-FM) in South Florida. Since 2009, his radio career has included iHeartRadio’s The Red Eye Rock Lounge, the Classic Rock Channel and nights and late nights on Big 100 FM (WBIG-FM) in Washington, D.C.

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K-LOVE Partners With Trans World Radio To Take Its Broadcasts And Content Global

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 13, 2026 - K-LOVE (parent of the K-LOVE and Air1 networks) is partnering with Trans World Radio (TWR) to expand positive, encouraging Christian content worldwide. The collaboration combines nearly 120 years of ministry experience, aiming to reach up to 190 countries—with special focus on closed or restricted nations and unreached people groups.

TWR’s local teams in more than 200 languages will adapt K-LOVE’s music and encouragement-focused programming for cultural and linguistic relevance. K-LOVE is also growing its Spanish-language efforts through a new K-LOVE Global initiative. Leaders from both organizations framed the partnership as a way to combine strengths: K-LOVE’s brand of positive music and encouragement with TWR’s international infrastructure and local presence. K-LOVE previously began limited international distribution in 2025 (Italy, Zambia, Lithuania).

To lead the expansion, Ed Lenane, a nearly 30-year K-LOVE veteran with broad industry experience, has been named Vice President of K-LOVE Global. He will report to Chief of Staff Dr. Bobby Wood and work closely with TWR while exploring additional outreach opportunities. Funding for the initiative will initially come from supporters interested in international radio ministry.

“We believe God has brought these two ministries together to help move more people closer to Jesus by combining our strengths, expanding our reach, and creating more opportunities for lives to be transformed,” says K-LOVE's Dr. Bobby Wood, who has extensive missionary experience. “Together, we are seeking to make a greater impact than we could alone, advancing the mission of sharing Christ's love with those around the world that need to hear it the most.”

Sports Fandom Doesn’t End With The Final Whistle

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 12, 2026 - At Advertising Week New York’s Podcast Zone, Audacy President of Digital Sales Michael Biemolt joined John-Paul “J.P.” Flaim and John “Cakes” Auville of 106.7 The Fan’s “The Sports Junkies” for a conversation about how this always-on fandom is reshaping the sports media landscape and creating new opportunities for brands to connect with audiences beyond the live game.

The discussion explored how the longtime Washington, D.C., sports radio hosts have built a loyal community over 30 years, extending their reach far beyond their home market through podcasting and on-demand content. They also shared how authentic host endorsements, personalized advertising and long-term brand partnerships can translate audience trust into meaningful engagement for advertisers.

A few key takeaways from the conversation:

  • Fandom is a 24/7 experience. Fans increasingly engage with sports through podcasts, fantasy sports, betting platforms and digital content before and after games, creating opportunities for brands to reach them beyond live broadcasts.

  • Trust drives influence. When audiences have a genuine connection with talent, authentic product recommendations can inspire discovery, conversation and action.

  • Relationships create lasting value. From personalized ad reads to long-running brand partnerships, collaboration between talent and advertisers can build deeper connections than transactional campaigns alone.

The conversation offers a timely perspective on how broadcasters, creators and advertisers can adapt to changing consumer habits while building lasting audience relationships.

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iHeart Chairman/CEO Bob Pittman And Fred of The Fred Show Featured At BFOA Media Mixer Chicago

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 12, 2026 - The Broadcasting Foundation of America (BFOA) brought its Media Mixer tour to Chicago on Wednesday, October 7, at the Museum of Broadcast Communications. More than 150 broadcast professionals attended the networking, educational, and social event, which featured guests Bob Pittman, Chairman & CEO of iHeartMedia, and Fred of The Fred Show for an evening celebrating the industry and supporting BFOA's mission to help broadcasters in need.

The Media Mixer was presented in partnership with the Museum of Broadcast Communications and the Illinois Broadcasters Association. The 2026 Media Mixer tour recently stopped in New York and Cleveland, with more dates to come in 2027.

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Phil Stone And Brent Douglas Named To 2027 Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 12, 2026 - The OAB announced Phil Stone and Brent Douglas, the legendary Tulsa radio team known simply as “Phil & Brent,” as the newest members of the Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame Class of 2027.

For nearly 27 years, Phil & Brent entertained Oklahoma listeners as hosts of the KMOD Morning Zoo, building one of the most successful and recognizable morning radio programs in the state. Their creativity produced countless memorable comedy sketches and characters, but none became more famous than Roy D. Mercer, the fictional prank-calling character created by Stone and Douglas and voiced by Douglas.

“There are certain broadcasters who become more than voices on the radio. They become part of the lives and memories of their listeners. Phil Stone and Brent Douglas did exactly that. For nearly three decades, they made Oklahoma laugh, built an incredibly loyal audience and created comedy that reached far beyond Tulsa," said Will Payne President, Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters

Douglas initially contributed celebrity impressions and comedy to the show while working as a pharmacist. When the opportunity came to join Stone full time, Douglas took a chance on radio, beginning a partnership that would ultimately become part of Oklahoma broadcasting history. Together, Stone and Douglas developed a style of personality-driven morning radio built around quick wit, memorable characters, comedy and a genuine connection with their audience. The pair received the Tulsa Press Club Radio Icon Award in 2005 and earned numerous Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters morning show personality nominations during their career. Photo: L-R, Brent Douglas, Phil Stone

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Michelle McKormick Returning To Mornings On iHeart's BIG 101.3 Grand Rapids And WMRR-FM Muskegon

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 12, 2026 - iHeartMedia has confirmed that veteran radio personality Michelle McKormick will join the company as morning host on BIG 101.3 (WBFX-FM) in Grand Rapids and WMRR-FM (101.7) in Muskegon. McKormick, a Grand Rapids native and staple of West Michigan radio for more than four decades, will officially begin on-air over both stations on October 19th.

“Michelle is one of the most recognizable and beloved voices in West Michigan radio,” said Tim Feagan Regional President iHeartMedia Multiplatform Group for iHeartMedia West Michigan. “Her authenticity, passion for the community, and ability to connect with listeners every morning made her a natural fit for BIG 101.3 and WMRR. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the team.”

McKormick began her on-air career in 1984 at WGRD-FM in Grand Rapids while attending Central Michigan University. Over the subsequent decades she worked at stations including WOOD-AM, WJRW-AM, WKRK-FM in Detroit, and WKXW in New Jersey before returning to Grand Rapids. Most recently, she co-hosted mornings on Cumulus Media’s classic rock WLAV-FM for 15 years until her position was eliminated as part of company-wide reductions in August 2026. Her final show on WLAV aired August 28.

“I’m so excited to be back on the air in my hometown and to join the iHeartMedia team,” McKormick said. “West Michigan listeners have been incredible to me for decades, and I can’t wait to wake them up again every morning on BIG 101.3 and WMRR. This feels like the right next chapter.” BIG 101.3 serves Grand Rapids with classic hits and “Fun Hits You Know,” while WMRR-FM delivers classic rock to the Muskegon market.

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Gerardo Sproet Joins KTEX 106.1 Texas For Afternoons

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 12, 2026 - KTEX 106.1 Brenham, TX welcomes Gerardo Sproet, formerly of Houston’s 93Q Country (KKBQ), to its on-air lineup. Sproet officially joins KTEX on Monday, October 12, 2026, and will be heard weekdays from 2 to 6 p.m. Sproet brings major-market radio experience and a strong background in country music programming and community involvement. During his time at 93Q, he advanced from weekend nights to weekday evenings before taking over the station’s full-time midday show in 2024.

“He’s choosin’ KTEX, I can tell!” said KTEX Program Director Cowboy Dave. “Gerardo brings big- market experience, a passion for country music and the kind of energy that fits right in with our team. We’re excited to have him on board and look forward to getting him connected with our friends and partners throughout the country music industry.”

KTEX 106.1, based in Brenham, Texas, serves listeners across 12 counties between Houston and Austin. The station was named 2026 Small Market Radio Station of the Year at the Texas Regional Radio Music Awards and continues to invest in experienced on-air talent.

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CRB/CRS Now Accepting Applications for Lisa McKay Women in Radio Scholarship

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 12, 2026 - Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB) and Country Radio Seminar (CRS) are now accepting applications for the Lisa McKay Women in Radio Scholarship, created to honor the legacy of Lisa McKay, an influential radio programmer whose career and leadership continue to inspire women pursuing careers in the industry.

Eligible applicants must be either a female college senior studying broadcast communications who is involved in radio programming or a female professional with one to three years of experience in the radio business as a Program Director, Assistant Program Director, or Music Director. Applicants must also be first-time CRS attendees. Applications are open now through Thursday, Oct. 22.

Three scholarship recipients will be recognized during CRS 2027, and each will receive a package that includes full registration to the event, round-trip airfare to Nashville, and hotel accommodations at the Omni Nashville Hotel. Interested parties can apply here.

CRS 2027, scheduled for March 17–19. For more information, visit www.CountryRadioSeminar.com and follow CRS on Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can also call 615-327-4487 for additional information.

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The Radio Hall of Fame Inducted Its Class of 2026 Last Night In Chicago From The Fairmont Hotel

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 9, 2026 - Last night, Thursday, October 8, 2026, at the 2026 Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony and dinner at the Fairmont Chicago, 2017 Radio Hall of Fame Inductee, Bobby Bones was Master of Ceremonies for the event, with Radio Hall of Fame Co-Chairmen, Kraig Kitchin and Dennis Green (also a 2026 Radio Hall of Fame inductee), welcoming attendees with opening remarks.

The 8 Class of 2026 Inductees are: Boomer Esiason-WFAN-AM/FM, New York City Dennis Green- COO Sun & Fun Media/Key Networks - Shotgun Tom Kelly - Sirius XM 60s Gold - Helen Little - WLTW-FM, New York City - Bob Pittman, Chairman and CEO, iHeartMedia, Inc. Rickey Smiley - Urban One/Reach Media Charlie Van Dyke and Fred Winston.

Paul Harvey Aurandt Jr., son of radio legend Paul Harvey, paid a special introductory tribute to inductees, the Radio Hall of Fame and the Museum of Broadcast Communications. For more information about the Radio Hall of Fame and the 2026 Inductees, visit: www.radiohalloffame.com.

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Steve Goldstein Takes A Look 'Inside Gen Z’s Media Mind' During A Live Focus Group In New York

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 9, 2026 - Nikolai Kovach never pressed play. The NYU junior had already watched the whole podcast—or so he thought—because the best moments kept landing in his TikTok and Instagram feeds, polished and sequenced until the full episode felt like a leftover. Sitting on stage at Podcast Movement 2026 with two classmates, he put the problem in one sentence: once the greatest parts had already found him, there was nothing left to go get. That is the quiet bargain Gen Z is striking with shows. The clip is no longer the trailer. Sometimes it is the show.

In Steve Goldstein's latest blog titled "MediaGen Z, Unfiltered: When Clips Become the Show, he shares that his Amplifi Media put three of my NYU students on stage at Podcast Movement 2026 for a conversation about their media habits. "We dug into how they discover podcasts, listen to or watch them, and decide when to bail. Some had consumed shows entirely through clips, without playing a full episode. I found that I was watching the entire podcast on these clips… I wasn’t interested in going to listen or watch the podcast, because I had just seen the greatest part of it.

Nikolai Kovach, NYU (Bottom Line Up Front) said , "Four years ago, when NYU and I piloted The Business of Podcasting course, ChatGPT wasn’t on the radar and YouTube barely came up. Today, video dominates our conversations, and the robots haven't taken over the planet yet, but they've definitely taken over the syllabus." The class has become a weekly Gen Z focus group where students share how they choose and use podcasts and other media.

At the recent Podcast Movement in New York, three students from this semester’s class joined Goldstein for “Inside Gen Z’s Media Mind: A Live Focus Group.” Elizabeth Nelson and Yuyoung Chung are seniors at Tisch. Kovach is a junior in Communication. Three students certainly can’t speak for a generation. But their experiences offer useful clues about how young audiences discover shows and decide what deserves their time. Click HERE for the complete blog and other top takeaways

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The Bob & Tom Show’s Chick McGee To Celebrate 50 Years In Broadcasting

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 9, 2026 - Chick McGee, longtime co-host and “sports director” of the nationally syndicated The Bob & Tom Show, will celebrate 50 years in broadcasting on Monday, October 12, 2026. The milestone recognizes five decades behind the microphone and a career spent bringing information, personality and laughter to radio listeners. Reflecting on this milestone, Chick McGee said, “I feel kind of silly saying this but it’s true, it really does not seem possible. Fifty years on the radio. I am reminded of that quote ”Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.”

McGee added, "However, burnout is so real and it must be handled. Thank goodness, I work with the best at keeping everything, and everyone, fresh. Growing up I had no idea whatsoever what I was going to do as an adult. Then I discovered radio. It is not an overstatement to say that it saved me. It hit me all at once, and remembered this, “The two most important days in your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why.” This is what I was born to do.”

Known for his quick wit, unmistakable voice and spirited exchanges with his fellow cast members on The Bob & Tom Show, McGee has become a familiar part of listeners’ morning routines. His contributions extend beyond the sports desk to some of the show’s best-known comedy bits, including Mr. Obvious. The BOB & TOM Show is exclusively distributed by Westwood One, the largest audio network in America.

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Edison: YouTube Tops List of Platforms Weekly Podcast Consumers Use Most During Q3 2026

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 - YouTube is now the platform U.S. weekly podcast consumers use most often, according to Edison Podcast Metrics data for Q3 2026. The ranking has shifted sharply over time: Spotify is second at 17%, Apple Podcasts is third at 9%, and Netflix has entered the top tier in seventh place at 3%. Podcast video on YouTube has redrawn where listening and watching happen, and the quarterly numbers show the lead is still expanding rather than settled.

According to Edison Podcast Metrics®, as of Q3 2026, Podcast content on YouTube has dramatically changed the entire ecosystem and continues to gain ground as a destination for podcast consumption. In this latest release of Edison Podcast Metrics data, even though 3% of weekly consumers say Netflix is the platform they use most often to listen to or watch podcasts may seem small it tells only part of the story. Over the summer this newsletter covered how much overall podcast consumption is happening on Netflix among U.S. weekly podcast consumers.

Nothing about this space is static, and Edison Podcast Metrics subscribers have the power to see how these numbers expand and shrink each quarter. Subscribe now to follow this data and more from Edison Podcast Metrics.

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'The Morning Show With Trey And Loren Raye' Take Mornings On 101.1 WCBS-FM New York

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 7, 2026 -  101.1 WCBS-FM (WCBS-FM) announces a new morning show featuring Trey Morgan and Loren Raye. “The Morning Show with Trey and Loren Raye” can be heard weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. ET. “Trey and Loren love radio. They love connecting with people, and each brings a very different take on life to the microphone. Put those personalities in a room, and you’ve got the makings of great conversations and something worth turning up,” said John Foxx, Brand Manager, 101.1 WCBS-FM. “I’m excited for our listeners to get to know them and find a little of themselves in the show every morning."

“There are very few opportunities in radio that feel this special. WCBS-FM has an incredible history and a unique relationship with New York, and I’m grateful for the chance to build this show with Loren Raye,” said Morgan. “I’ve been fortunate to have learned from great mentors and am excited to continue learning from John Foxx, Jim Ryan, and Chris Oliviero. My goal is to make a show Loren and I are proud of, have a lot of fun and earn our place in people’s mornings.”

“As a born and raised Jersey girl, I could not be more excited to launch this new morning show alongside my friend Trey on the legendary WCBS-FM,” said Raye. “I’m so grateful to John Foxx, Jim Ryan, Chris Oliviero, Jeff Sottolano and Heather Cohen for believing in me and making my dreams come true. Let’s get to work!”

Morgan is a veteran broadcaster whose career spans many of the country’s largest radio markets. Beginning at 95.1 The Beat in Melbourne, FL, he went on to hold key roles at KC101 in New Haven and Kiss 108 in Boston. His resume also features stops at Z100 and Audacy’s NEW 102.7 in New York City, ALT 98.7 in Los Angeles, 99.5 The Wolf in Dallas and Audacy’s BIG 98.1 in Philadelphia.

Raye began her radio career in New York on Z100 with “Elvis Duran and the Morning Show.” She then co-hosted “The TJ Show” on Audacy’s 103.3 AMP Radio in Boston throughout its seven-year run, earning her two Gracie Awards for Outstanding Morning Drive Personality. She is also a voiceover artist represented by Atlas Talent Agency, with credits including Peacock, The Louvre and McGraw-Hill.

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iHeart Launches New Nightime Show 'The Social Club' On TikTok Radio With Jon, Becky & Kayla

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 - While no official release as of yet, iHeart posted on social: 'Everyone's Watching LIVE Every Night' - Your FYP moves fast. Between work, life, and the group chat, keeping up with every song, creator, and viral moment is a full-time job. So pull up a seat. Every night at 8 PM ET, Jon, Becky, and Kayla go LIVE on TikTok with TikTok Radio Presents 'Social Club' from iHeart, breaking down the biggest songs, trends, and creator drama with zero filter and plenty of oversharing." The show premiered Monday, October 5, 2026.

All three hosts already hold shifts on TikTok Radio (the iHeart channel that launched in March 2026 after the SiriusXM version ended) and have their own TikTok followings. The trio includes Jon Comouche (C), Becky Mits (L) and Kayla Thomas (R).

The Social Club is available weeknights on the TikTok Radio channel in the free iHeartRadio app (phone, web, smart speakers, or car). Reportedly, it's also cleared on a 'handful of iHeart CHR/Top 40 stations. Among them include: 96.7 KISS FM (KHFI) in Austin who promoted the premiere as airing weeknights 7–11 p.m.

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Tracy Johnson: 13 Days of Halloween - The Complete Countdown Plan For Your Show

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 - Instead of sprinkling random Halloween content across October and hoping someone notices, consultant Tracy Johnson suggests you package it into a branded, building campaign that runs for 13 shows and ends with a bang on Halloween. And because it’s built from a library of ready-to-execute features and games, it’s also one of the easiest. Here’s how to plan it, build it, and execute it, including a complete day-by-day plan you can steal.

13 Days of Halloween - Every show should reflect the holidays. Listeners live in the season, and a show that ignores it sounds like it was recorded in a bunker. But “reflecting the season” usually means a Halloween topic here and there, with no shape or momentum. 13 Days of Halloween fixes that. It works for four reasons: It’s a package. A branded campaign is easier to promote, easier to remember, and easier to sell than a collection of random topics. It’s the principle behind Theme Weeks: bundle content into a container, and it becomes special. It builds. Each day gets a little bigger, a little longer, and a little more intense, just like a good horror movie. The audience can feel the momentum heading toward October 31. It creates appointments. A daily segment at the same time every day gives listeners a reason to tune in on purpose. That’s the difference between content people stumble across and content people seek out. The name does the work. Thirteen is the unluckiest number there is. The title explains the concept, sets the mood, and signals that this is an event. No explanation required.

Count Backward: Set Your 13 Days - The first step is simple math, and it changes every year. Start on Halloween and count back 13 shows (not 13 calendar days). For a Monday-through-Friday show, that’s about two and a half weeks. When Halloween falls on a weekend, your finale moves to the Friday before.

In 2026, Halloween is on a Saturday. That means a weekday morning show would: Launch Day 1 on Wednesday, October 14. Run through the week of October 19. Build through the week of October 26. Stage the big finale, Day 13, on Friday, October 30. If you’re a six-day show or have a weekend edition, adjust accordingly. Read complete article HERE

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Tim Bronsil: 'One of The Biggest Opportunities In Podcasting May Be Hiding In Plain Sight'

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 7, 2026 - In its second webinar from Point-To-Point Marketing and Strategic Solutions Research, it finds the next wave of podcast Superfans may already be in the audience. Researchers identified an 18% segment of U.S. podcast consumers — “Prime Prospects” — who already mirror Superfans on host affinity, social following, willingness to pay, and interest in VIP clubs and communities, yet have not reached Superfan-level listening frequency.

Superfans themselves account for 17% of podcast consumers under a strict behavioral definition (daily full-episode listening, at least five hours a week, host importance, and at least one deeper action such as Patreon, merch, events, or email). The gap for the larger adjacent group is usage, not interest—pointing to a concrete conversion opportunity for creators who can turn existing engagement into habit.

The Podcast Study 2026 surveyed 1,205 U.S. podcast consumers, with the sample balanced according to the most recent U.S. Census. The study is sponsored by Crooked Media, NPR, and PRX. For this analysis, researchers created a strict definition of a podcast Superfan based not simply on attitude, but also on behavior. Superfans listen to full podcast episodes daily, consume at least five hours of podcasts per week, say the host is an important reason they listen, and have taken an additional action such as joining Patreon, purchasing merchandise, attending an event, or receiving podcast emails.

“One of the biggest opportunities in podcasting may be hiding in plain sight,” said Point-To'Point's Tim Bronsil. “Prime Prospects already act like Superfans. We walked through a tangible action plan to begin the conversion process. If you can move that group forward, you have the potential to significantly grow your Superfan base.” Prime Prospects resemble established Superfans on measures that were not used to create the groups. Eighty-one percent of Prime Prospects follow podcasts on social media, compared with 79% of Superfans. Sixty-nine percent say they would definitely join a free VIP Club from a favorite podcast, compared with 64% of Superfans.

Prime Prospects also dramatically outpace other podcast consumers in existing engagement. Eighty-one percent follow podcasts on social media, compared with 54% of all other listeners, while 57% receive podcast emails compared with 27% of all others. “The surprise isn’t how different Prime Prospects are from Superfans. It’s how similar they already are,” said Strategic Solutions' Hal Rood. “They are nearly as willing to pay, even more interested in joining a VIP Club, and are just as socially engaged. The biggest gap is usage and HOW they use. The findings give podcast creators a very tangible opportunity to grow their most valuable audience.”

Video also appears particularly important among this emerging group. Thirty-eight percent of Prime Prospects prefer video over audio, compared with 27% of the total podcast audience. Fifty-five percent say they finish more episodes when watching them as video. Taken together, the findings suggest that the path to greater fandom does not depend on one tactic.

The Podcast Study 2026 webinar series will continue October 13. For previous webinar recordings, registration, webinar information, and findings from The Podcast Study 2026, visit ThePodcastStudy.com.

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Snaps: The Museum of Broadcast Communications Officially Unveils Its Newest Exhibit In Chicago

THE MOUTH, OCTOBER 5, 2026 - The Museum of Broadcast Communications (MBC) welcomed special guests Tanya Michnevich Bracco, Co-Executive Producer of 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert' and a longtime executive producer with Stephen Colbert, and Jim Fenhagen, Principal Set Designer. This exhibition features the Late Show set, now preserved as part of the Museum’s permanent collection, giving visitors the opportunity to step into television history and experience a piece of the iconic Ed Sullivan Theater.

The MBC officially unveiled its newest exhibit, "The Evolution of Late Night Television: The Late Show with Stephen Colbert," on September 28, 2026. Following a private unveiling event with the show's producers and set designers, the exhibit officially opened to the general public a few days later on Friday, October 2, 2026.

In a Facebook post, they said, "We are deeply grateful to CBS and Stephen Colbert for entrusting the Museum of Broadcast Communications with this remarkable piece of television history. A very special thank you to our presenting sponsor Wintrust, along with CBS 2 Chicago and Conti Dolan, for believing in the Museum, this exhibition and our mission to preserve, present and celebrate broadcasting history.

BTW - The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) will hold it’s next Media Mixer in Chicago on October 7, 5:30pm CT to 7:30PM CT, at The Museum of Broadcast Communications with special guest iHeart Media Chairman and CEO Bob Pittman, one of this year’s Radio Hall of Fame inductees. The Chicago Media Mixer is scheduled as a kick-off to the next evening’s Radio Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. Pittman will participate in a Q&A with Premiere Networks’ nationally syndicated morning radio host Fred of The Fred Show.

The Media Mixer will also highlight the Museum of Broadcast Communications’ interactive exhibit, The Evolution of Late-Night Television. Attendance to the BFOA Media Mixer is free thanks to event sponsors, including the Illinois Broadcasters Association. Space is limited and registration is required. To reserve their spot, radio and television professionals may click here.

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EDISON: 66% of Weekly Podcast Listeners React Negatively To AI Versions of Their Favorite Hosts

THE MOUTH, OCTOBER 1, 2026 - Podcast listeners have long treated their favorite hosts as trusted companions — voices that feel personal, consistent, and human. New data suggests many are unwilling to accept a synthetic stand-in. In a Q1 2026 survey added to Edison Podcast Metrics, two-thirds of weekly podcast consumers reacted negatively to the idea of their favorite host being replaced by an AI-generated version of themselves. Feelings of being deceived, upset, skeptical, or betrayed far outpaced any positive response, while only a small share said they would be indifferent.

Edison Research has spent years researching the relationship between podcast hosts and their audiences, with countless studies illustrating the strong connection hosts have with consumers. With the recent explosion of AI, we’ve started to investigate the role AI should play in podcasting. Custom survey questions were added to Edison Podcast Metrics® in Q1 2026 to help us understand how consumers would feel if their favorite hosts were replaced by AI.

Edison Podcast Metrics asked weekly consumers how they would feel if their favorite podcast host started using an AI-generated version to host their podcast (see graph above). Most weekly podcast consumers, 66%, reacted negatively to the idea. One-third of weekly podcast consumers said they would feel “deceived”, with another third feeling “upset”. Thirty-two percent said “skeptical”, followed by 28% who felt “betrayed”. Only 27% of weekly podcast consumers selected any positive emotion. 14% of weekly podcast consumers were “impressed” by the usage of an AI-generated host. Another 12% were optimistic, and 10% were “fascinated”, all at the bottom of the list.

The survey did include an option for weekly podcast consumers who felt neutral on this topic. Only 18% said they would feel “indifferent” to their favorite podcast host using an AI-generated version of themselves on their podcast.

Interested in understanding more about the usage of AI in podcasting? Subscribe to Edison Podcast Metrics to learn more about the data we already have, as well as an opportunity to add more custom questions.

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Fred Jacobs: Why Radio’s In-Car Share Has Fallen 19% Since 2018 - 'The Shocking Truth'

THE MOUTH, SEPTEMBER 30TH, 2026 - Broadcast radio still accounts for about half of all in-car audio listening. That sounds like a durable position — until you look at the trend and the generations. Since 2018, AM/FM’s share of time spent in vehicles has fallen 19%. Millennials moved first. Gen X has now followed. Only Boomers and older listeners still give over-the-air radio a clear lead behind the wheel.

The driver isn’t mysterious. Once a car becomes a connected car, the dashboard stops being a radio with a few extra buttons and becomes an open audio platform. Phone pairing, satellite trials, streaming apps, and podcasts all sit one tap away. In those vehicles, AM/FM’s share drops to 44%. Radio didn’t just get more competition. It lost the scarcity that once made it the default.

In Fred Jacobs blog: The Shocking Truth About In-Car Radio Listening, he refers to an article over the weekend, by futurist James Cridland in his newsletter, “Radioland,” In the current issue, the lead story was a data slide from an Edison “Share of Ear” study that broke down in-car listening among young people from 2015 – Q2 2026 (see above graph). James admitted he was shocked by this finding, truly an alarming piece of research for anyone in the broadcast radio business. But this is old news. Young people have been gravitating away from radio for several years.

Our Techsurveys focus on core radio listeners. If anything, you’d expect them to be more loyal to the medium most of them grew up with than Edison’s sample of the general public. But the fact is, we show young respondents already favoring “other audio” (streaming, satellite, etc.) among Millennials well-ahead of broadcast radio in the car. And in fact, Gen Xers also now spend more time listening to digital sources than over-the-air radio when listening to audio while on four wheels. Now, that’s shocking.

Only Boomers and members of the Greatest Generation (born pre-1946) listen to more radio while driving. Let’s walk through this. For the entire Techsurvey sample (those who spend time in motor vehicles), broadcast radio has a narrow lead over other entertainment and information in sources. Keep in mind, this isn’t 18-34 year-olds—it’s the entire all-ages base of nearly 31,000 people.

Read complete blog HERE

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[LISTEN] Race Taylor Announces His Departure From CBS-FM New York After Seven Year Run

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 - CBS-FM New York's Race Taylor called it just another ordinary morning on Friday, but it was hardly the case as he announced at the shows end he was exiting his post after 7 years. "Hi this is Race Taylor and I do have some news to share - and that is this morning is my last at CBS-FM. I know it's just an ordinary morning, no fanfare or long drawn out goodbyes ––– But you showed up for 27 years - you followed me across the dial."

He closed by suggesting he wasn't retiring and hoped to be back on the air soon, adding: "This isn't goodbye forever. I'm certainly planning on another opportunity here in New York City. But it is goodbye from CBS-FM.

Taylor's tenure in New York City covered nearly 20 years at 95.5 WPLJ in both middays and afternoons. In 2019, he joined classic hits WCBS-FM 101.1, first in middays and moving to mornings in June 2025. On Friday he announced at the end of his show he was leaving. No successor has been named but we're told to learn more later this week. Listen to his announcement HERE

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Classic Rock U Brings Huey Lewis To RAB Fall Meetings For Exclusive RRHOF Conversation

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 - Classic Rock U and Skyview Networks hosted a special Rock & Roll Hall of Fame session during the 2026 RAB Fall Meetings, featuring an exclusive conversation between legendary artist Huey Lewis and Classic Rock U host Adam Reader. The session, titled "Classic Rock U Presents: The Heart of Rock & Roll with Huey Lewis” was held Wednesday, Sept. 23, at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, where the meetings capped off with an intimate conversation with Lewis, hosted by Reader.

“Gathering broadcast leaders, advertisers and industry partners creates an important opportunity to connect and engage around what’s happening across radio today,” said Mike Hulvey, president and CEO of RAB. “We’re grateful to Skyview Networks and Classic Rock U for sharing this special experience with our attendees and celebrating radio’s unique ability to connect people through stories and shared experiences.”

"Classic Rock U gives listeners a deeper connection to the artists and stories behind the music they love," said Andrew Kalb, COO of Skyview Networks. "Adam has a unique ability to bring those conversations to life, creating memorable moments for audiences, affiliates and advertisers alike." Classic Rock U's affiliate lineup includes newly added KQMT-FM Denver and major-market stations including WDRV-FM Chicago, KSLX-FM Phoenix, KGLK-FM Houston, KSHE-FM St. Louis and WNCX-FM Cleveland, among others.

Photo, L-R: Steve Jones, President, CEO and Chairman of Skyview Networks; Adam Reader, the Professor of Rock; Ginny Hubbard, CEO of Hubbard; Huey Lewis

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97.1 The River Atlanta's Rockin’ '26 Birthday Bash With 20 Years of Classic Rock Celebration

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 - 97.1 The River (WSRV/Atlanta, GA) marked its 20th anniversary in true rock-and-roll style with The River’s Rockin’ Birthday Bash 2026, a three-night celebration featuring some of the biggest names in classic rock at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre and Truist Park. Lynyrd Skynyrd x Foreigner: Double Trouble Double Vision Tour on July 23 at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre Mötley Crüe: The Return of the Carnival of Sins tour with performances by Tesla & Extreme on August 12 at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre Guns N’ Roses on September 19 at Truist Park.

Since launching on January 1, 2006, the station has remained Atlanta’s home for classic hits, fueled by a powerhouse on-air lineup including Axel Lowe, English Nick, Kaedy Kiely and Debra Green. “For 20 years, 97.1 The River has been the soundtrack for generations of Atlanta rock fans. Celebrating this milestone with three unforgettable nights of live music was our way of thanking the listeners who have made The River a part of their lives for the past two decades. We're proud of our history and excited for what's ahead,” said Jules Riley Director of Operations for CMG Atlanta Radio. For photos, visit 971theriver.com.

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STUDY: 'Say It, Show It, And Make Them Laugh: A Playbook For Driving Live Reads & Endorsements'

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2026, By Pierre Bouvard - A new WPP Media/System1 study (with insights also applied from TikTok creator work) shows that podcast host reads and AM/FM radio talent endorsements outperform many other ad formats when they follow two simple rules: name the brand in the first two seconds and make the spot entertaining.

Combined with Effie Awards data presented at Cannes, the findings position radio and podcasts as “Super Touchpoints” that drive both short-term sales and long-term brand building. The report offers outstanding insights and best practices for audio talent endorsements and host reads. The global study found that entertainment earns emotion and early branding gives the brand credit.

Creator/host-read ads produce stronger brand memory lift (awareness + recall) than typical ads. Radio listeners already form warm, long-term relationships with DJs and hosts; those feelings transfer directly into sales effect for talent endorsements. Jacobs Media and MARU/Matchbox research confirm hosts are a primary reason people listen, after “easy in the car” and “free.”

Key findings:

  • Host-read ads generate greater impact: System1 and WPP Media find creator ads (a.k.a. “host reads”) drive greater brand memory lift, which is the combination of brand awareness and ad recall.
  • Two best practices: Say the name of the advertiser within the first two seconds and ensure strong positive emotion via entertainment.
  • “Say it and show it”: Saying the brand and showing it in the first two seconds of the ad drives the strongest brand recognition.
  • Conduct a “brand early and often” creative audit: Watch/listen to all your ads. Check off if your brand is mentioned in the first two seconds and if there are at least five or more audio track brand mentions in 30-second ads.
  • Use both salesmanship and showmanship: Emotion-based creative that is funny and entertaining builds stronger brands and generates greater business outcomes.
  • Utilize right brain elements such as characters with vitality, story unfolding, clear sense of place, sounds of the living, dialogue, word play, distinctive accents, and music with discernable melody.

The WPP Media and System1 study measured creative responses for 1,217 paid ads among 182,500 TikTok users and connected that to in-market brand lift data. The study covered 8 global markets and $71M of media spend, which generated 23.6 billion impressions. The “Super Media Touchpoints” matrix reveals short-term sales effect and long-term brand building performance A major study from Effie released at the prestigious Cannes Advertising Festival named AM/FM radio and podcasts as deserving of the “Super Touchpoints” effectiveness honor.

Podcasts and AM/FM radio also performed strongly in long-term brand building with impressive brand effects beyond six months. See complete report HERE

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The Dana Cortez Show Takes Over Mornings Lotus Communications KSEQ-FM Fresno Q97.1

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 - The Dana Cortez Show, through its national syndication partner, Skyview Networks, announced the addition of Lotus Communications’ KSEQ-FM (Q97.1) Fresno, CA to its affiliate network. Beginning this week, Dana Cortez and her co-hosts, DJ Automatic and Anthony A., take over morning drive on Q97.1, succeeding the Greg & Dre Morning Show after a 25-year run in Central California.

Fresno joins a growing network of major market affiliates carrying The Dana Cortez Show, including KHMX-FM Houston, KKFR-FM Phoenix, KBBT-FM San Antonio, KQKS-FM Denver and KSFM-FM Sacramento. The show is heard daily across those markets and many more, reaching a Latino audience among the fastest growing and most underserved in American radio.

For Cortez, DJ Automatic and Anthony A., it was important to be in Fresno in person for the launch, celebrating the new partnership alongside the station and the audience they will now be connecting with every day. The team joined listeners at the Party in the Park Festival at Woodward Park on Sunday, September 20th, where the lineup featured Wiz Khalifa, Fetty Wap, DaBaby, Bow Wow, Soulja Boy and Petey Pablo. Being in the market the same weekend a 25-year local franchise hands over the daypart gives Q97.1 a live local moment rather than a switch.

“Being handed the baton from legendary show Greg and Dre Mornings is one of the biggest honors I’ve ever received in radio,” said Dana Cortez. “I’m both humbled and excited to join the winning team at Q97.1! DCS in the 559, lessgoo!”

“Taking over a 25-year morning franchise is not something a station hands to just anyone, and getting on a plane to be there for it tells you who Dana and her team are,” said Andrew Kalb, Chief Operating Officer of Skyview Networks. “What matters to advertisers is not how long an affiliate list runs, but where those affiliates are and how present the talent is in those markets.” The Dana Cortez Show is available mornings, middays or afternoons, Monday through Friday, and The Dana Cortez Weekend Show is available Saturday or Sunday with delivery via FTP. For additional information, visit skyviewnetworks.com/dcs or contact affiliation@skyviewsat.com.

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Anatomy of Launching A New Show: 'A Launch Should Feel Like An Event'

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026, By Robby Bridges - Following Connoisseur Media's recent launch of Cane & Sabrina on Connoisseur Media’s 103.1 The Wolf in Long Island’, we caught up with Robby Bridges, host, Program Director of WEBE/FM & WWWF/FM) to share his playbook for kicking off a new local country show in New York.

d“I like to create radio that not only translates into ratings and revenue, but lives in the tradition of radio’s storied past, " says Bridges. "With the launch of Cane and Sabrina on The Wolf, I think we did that. ”Here’s how it came together.

A launch should feel like an event. A station brand and a flagship show are a never-ending local political campaign: you’re trying to win the market every day. Combine that with circus theatrics that pull people in, and you’ve got the job. Today, with more competition for ears than ever, that matters even more. The work breaks down the same way every time:

The show had to sound like New York. With Cane and Sabrina, we wanted a show that would really make sense here: live on Long Island, with attitude, grit, edge, heart, sass — and real passion for the country music we play. In the Northeast, you still have to be a pied piper. You’re spreading the word to people who haven’t yet discovered how good country is. Sabrina From Queens already had a brand in New York’s country scene and deep roots in the market. Pair that with an iconic, rock-star talent like Cane, and we had a shot at cutting through the noise.

Once you have the team, step one is anticipation. We used Labor Day weekend to grab attention when listening patterns were already disrupted. We went jockless, stunted, and did something unique with imaging and theater of the mind. The message to core listeners, P2s, and P3s was simple: you know what to expect from us, and we’ll still deliver that — but we’re throwing you a curve you might just love.

We framed everything around the brand we wanted for the show: irreverent, fun, country, New York. We teased for three days and raised the curiosity factor by adding teasers from the Boss Jock himself, Scott Shannon, to signal this was a radio event, not same-old, same-old.

Social matched the air every step of the way — When we announced, we pivoted: bright color logo, new Cane & Sabrina social pages and web links, welcome messages from country artists from Luke Bryan to Scotty McCreery, New York-centric voices like Jackie Martling, and clips that showed both talents and different shades of what the show would be — all before official day one.

Then you have to keep the event going. We produced the show, promoted the show, and used social to put listeners inside it: in-show clips, off-site moments, behind-the-scenes sneak peeks. The invitation was clear: be part of this, and give us real-time feedback. It was a whirlwind first week. We’ve moved into media ads and branded swag — donuts, coffee thermoses — and we’re just getting started.

The playbook : Have a plan for the launch, its premiere, and the first regular shows. • Build anticipation • Roll out strategically, then market after premiere so momentum keeps building. • Tie the show into everything on the station. • Use socials to stay in front of listeners — and prospective listeners. • Keep the show present on the air even outside the daypart.

Robby oversees programming of AC WEBE in CT and country WWWF/The Wolf Long Island for Connoisseur Media in addition to pm drive. He hosts the weekend “Robby’s Top 20” nationally syndicated by Compass Media and the daily afternoon slot on LRN’s “True Oldies Channel”. His pas stints have included Z100 and WPLJ, in Boston, Philadelphia and Detroit.

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iHeart Philadelphia’s Q102 and ALT 104.5 Give One Couple 'The Ultimate Halloween Wedding'

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026 - iHeart Philadelphia’s Q102 and ALT 104.5 announced “Til Death Do Us Part,” a one-of-a-kind promotion giving one lucky couple the opportunity to get married at Pennhurst Asylum on Halloween night, October 31, 2026.

From September 17 - October 11, eligible couples can enter through the Q102 and ALT 104.5 websites by sharing why they want to say “I do” at one of the region’s most legendary haunted destinations. The winning couple will receive a wedding experience, including a ceremony and reception at Pennhurst Asylum. Q102 personality Nico will host the celebration and provide the music.

“Q102 and ALT 104.5 are always looking for unforgettable ways to connect with our listeners, and it doesn’t get more unforgettable than getting married at Pennhurst Asylum on Halloween weekend,” said Jeff Hurley, Senior Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia Philadelphia. “For the adventurous couple who believes love can survive anything—even a haunted asylum—this is the wedding of a lifetime.”

 

DeDe McGuire Honored With City of Jacksonville Proclamation During Annual Community Event

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2026 – DeDe McGuire, host of the nationally syndicated DeDe in the Morning, was recently honored with an official City of Jacksonville Proclamation during the 27th Annual Ritz Theatre & Museum Community Appreciation Day celebration. DeDe in the Morning can be heard locally on Cox Media Group Jacksonville's HOT 106.5 and Power 106.1.

Presented at the historic Ritz Theatre & Museum in Jacksonville's LaVilla district, the annual celebration commemorated 27 years since the reopening of the Ritz Theatre & Museum and brought together families, community leaders, local businesses, and residents from across Northeast Florida for a day dedicated to culture, entertainment, and community appreciation. A major highlight of the celebration was the DeDe's Duval Day Party, hosted by DeDe McGuire and presented in partnership with Cox Media Group Jacksonville's HOT 106.5 and Power 106.1.

According to DeDe, "Being a part of the Ritz Theater and Museum's 27th Annual Community Day was pure magic! The building and museum hold so much history and to celebrate it with the community was a highlight for me. Big thank you to our Power 106.1 and Hot 106.5 listeners and the city of. Jacksonville for the honor and recognition. It was a moment I'll never forget.”

Elroy Smith, Director of Branding and Programming for Hot 106.5 & Power 106.1 Jacksonville highlighted the significance of honoring talent that continues to make a difference in the communities served by the stations. “Connecting with the community is paramount for CMG-Jacksonville. In addition, hosting this special day at an iconic venue made this day special for us and our honoree, DeDe McGuire, who has evolved into a treasure in the radio industry. To see DeDe’s reaction when receiving this honor was priceless. She was surprised and humbled.”

(Pictured from Left: Market Manager-CMG-Brian McGhee, City Councilman, Raham Johnson, DeDe, & Program Director of HOT 106-5 & Power 106-1, Jacksonville, Elroy Smith.

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SiriusXM's SXM-11 Satellite Completed In-Orbit Testing And Has Entered Operational Service

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2026 – Earlier his week, SiriusXM’s SXM-11 satellite successfully completed in-orbit commissioning and testing, and has been handed over by Intuitive Machines and entered operational service. The milestone completes the spacecraft’s post-launch journey following its June 28 Falcon 9 mission and advances SiriusXM’s next-generation satellite fleet.

Built on the Intuitive Machines IM 1300 platform, SXM-11 weighed more than 15,000 pounds at launch, stands 28 feet tall, spans more than 106 feet with its solar arrays deployed and carries a 30-foot unfurlable S-band reflector.

SXM-11 will replace XM-5 and is the 15th satellite launched for Sirius, XM and SiriusXM. It is part of a broader fleet-refresh program that also includes SXM-12, currently scheduled for launch in 2027. Photo/Space X

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AUDACY: Further Proof Why Passage of The 'AM Radio For Every Vehicle Act' Is So Important

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026 – As a follow-up to the House's Passing the AM Radio For Every Vehicle Act, Audacy’s recent 'The Commuter Election' data pointed out that 66 million Americans are now commuting to work, described by MRI/Simmons as the largest commuting workforce of the post-pandemic era. 78% of employed adults commute at least two days per week, while 45% commute all five days.

Add to this nearly 90% of Americans who commute to work travel by car, making the vehicle a particularly important environment for reaching commuters. AM/FM accounts for 82% of ad-supported audio listening during weekday commuting hours (6–10 a.m. and 3–7 See Audacy Insights article HERE

The legislation would require automakers to keep AM radio access available in new passenger vehicles without charging drivers an extra fee. The push has gained urgency as some automakers have moved to remove AM radio from electric vehicles, citing technical concerns and changing consumer habits. Broadcasters, emergency officials and AM radio advocates have warned that removing AM from dashboards would cut off millions of Americans from a reliable source of local news, traffic, weather and emergency information.

The Senate bill, known as S. 315, was approved by the Senate Commerce Committee in April 2025 and remains on the legislative calendar. The next step is for Senate leaders to bring the measure to the floor. If the Senate passes matching legislation, the bill could then be sent to President Trump’s desk.

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Edison: Why The Car Still Favors AM/FM Radio

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2026 – Recently, we highlighted how younger Americans over-index for daily audio listening. This week in Edison's Insights, thy again turn to Share of Ear® to understand how young Americans are spending time with audio in one very important location: the car.

Americans between the ages of 13 and 34 spend an average of just under one hour per day listening to audio in the car. Most of that time (63%) is spent with ad-supported audio platforms. 13-34-year-olds utilize a variety of ad-supported audio platforms, but one platform clearly surpasses the rest in the car. AM/FM Radio, including over-the-air and radio streams, accounts for 70% of the time spent with ad-supported audio sources in the car.

Podcasts rank a distant second, accounting for 11% of ad-supported in-car audio time. Streaming Music accounts for a significant amount of in-car audio time, but most of that listening is ad-free. When we filter consumption by ad-supported platforms, Streaming Music comes in third at 10%. Music and Music Videos on YouTube close out the fourth slice of the pie at 7%. SiriusXM, where only their non-music channels have ads, gets 2% of listening time among this younger group. Distribution across all platforms shown above, captures audio consumption across locations, devices, and platforms, in addition to numerous filtering capabilities.

Share of Ear® captures audio consumption across locations, devices, and platforms, in addition to numerous filtering capabilities. Contact our team today to learn more about Share of Ear. 

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Cane And Sabrina Kick Off Today In Mornings On Connoisseur's 103.1 FM The Wolf Long Island

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2026 – Connoisseur Media’s 103.1 The Wolf (WWWF-FM) welcomes Cane Peterson and Sabrina Sergio to mornings. Cane and Sabrina will host their first show on Thursday, September 10th on 103.1 FM. The move marks a return to the New York market for Peterson, who previously hosted mornings on WNEW and WNYL and was also heard on K-Rock 92.3 and Z100. Sergio, known on-air as “Sabrina From Queens,” joins The Wolf from Audacy, where she was heard on Country 94.7. In addition to mornings, Sergio will serve as Assistant Program Director for 103.1 The Wolf.

“Every single person who ever gets a new job and gives quotes sounds like a fake goober,” said Peterson. “The laundry list of people to thank for the wonderful opportunity they've always dreamed about working at. Blah. But also, Robby (Bridges) is my boy, Keith (Dakin) and Kristin (Okesson) are awesome and Connoisseur is killing it. So yeah thank you. I'm ready to get to work and dominate!”

“Joining 103.1 The Wolf is such an exciting next chapter for me!” said Sergio. “Country music has been such a huge part of my life and career, and there’s nothing I love more than connecting with listeners, discovering new music, and sharing it with people. I’m incredibly grateful to Robby, Keith and Kristin for the opportunity to bring my energy, my love of country music, and my New York perspective to The Wolf. "

“The opportunity to create a country radio morning show in one of the largest media markets in the country requires talent who are compelling, edgy, relatable, have a point of view and are completely connected to both the market and the format,” said Robby Bridges, Program Director, 103.1 The Wolf.

With the addition of Cane and Sabrina to mornings, the station has finalized its programming lineup, with Big D & Bubba moving to Saturday mornings, Carsen hosting middays, Robby Bridges in PM drive and Blitz at night.

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Mix 100 Names Nina Blanco And Josh Griesemer To Lead Denver’s New Morning Show

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2026 – As we await an official release, KSE's Hot AC Mix 100/KIMN 100.3 FM Denver announced late Friday via social that Nina Blanco and Josh Griesemer will debut as 'Denver’s Morning Show With Nina & Josh' starting today, September 8, 2026. A Chicago native with more than a decade in radio, Nina joined Mix 100 in 2023 in marketing, went on-air in April, moved to afternoons in 2024, and was named Music Director in 2025. She also serves as Marketing Coordinator for KSE Entertainment.

Griesemer, a Mix 100 morning show veteran since 2020, most recently was part of 'The Jeremy, Katy & Josh Morning Show, where he served as producer and third mic. As reported on Sept. 2, Joel Clary, Senior Vice President & General Manager of KSE Radio said in part, that MIX 100 would announce its new morning programming lineup soon as the station continues evolving to meet the needs of Denver’s listeners.

In addition to mornings, Blanco also hosts The Nina Blanco Podcast, emcees live events (including Morning Show Boot Camp), and has earned The Colorado Broadcasters Association awards for Best Afternoon Show. “I’m thrilled to wake up with Denver every morning,” Blanco said. “This city has been home for nearly a decade, and I can’t wait to start the day with Josh and our listeners.”

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Bone's The BobbyCast' Celebrates 10th Anniversary

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2026 – Ten years and almost 700 episodes later, Bobby Bones has turned a microphone and an insatiable curiosity into a global media franchise. This month, iHeartPodcast Bobby Bones Presents: The BobbyCast celebrates its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of genuine and surprising conversations with the biggest stars in music, entertainment, sports and culture.

What started as a place for Bobby to have more intimate and in-depth discussions with those he admired has grown into a podcast juggernaut with a worldwide platform, garnering over 92 million monthly social media impressions and 5.4 million social media followers. In January, The BobbyCast became the first Nashville-based podcast to debut on Netflix, as part of the streamer’s inaugural deal with iHeartMedia, bringing Bobby to a global audience.

“The BobbyCast started as an opportunity to have real, candid conversations with people I was curious to learn more about,” said Bobby Bones. “Ten years later, I’m still curious, and I’m incredibly grateful that people continue to want to confide in me.”

“For the past 10 years, 'The BobbyCast' has earned a reputation as one of podcasting’s most respected interview shows. Bobby’s curiosity and ability to create genuine conversations make the podcast a favorite among listeners and guests, and we’re proud to celebrate this milestone with him," said Will Pearson, President of iHeartPodcasts. Additionally, Bobby’s podcast network in partnership with iHeartMedia (Nashville Podcast Network) includes series like 25 Whistles with Bobby Bones (A Football Podcast), Battleground Podcast, Feeling Things with Amy & Kat, Get Real with Caroline Hobby, In The Vet's Office with Dr. Josie Horchak, Movie Mike's Movie Podcast, Sore Losers, The Upload with Brooke Taylor and more.

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Feature: Ben Davis Get's 'The Last Word' - 'I Once Did A Promotion For AARP - 'We Gave Away Bidet’s'

THE MOUTH, SEPTEMBER 8, 2025 - Welcome back to 'The Last Word' — where we pull back the curtain and get a closer look at some of radio’s biggest stars, diving into their deepest thoughts, personal stories, and maybe even a few nosy questions. In a world flooded by TikTok chaos and endless scrolling, 'The Last Word' is your oasis of personal insight, fun facts and more.

Today, we cast the spotlight on Ben Davis, Operations Manager | Program Director | CHR Format Coordinator for Connoisseur Media Louisville, who arrived there in 2003 and is one half of The Ben Davis & Kelly K Show. This award-winning, Marconi-nominated show they've helmed throughout Kentuckiana since 2008. Now he gets the last word:

I FIRST GOT THE RADIO BUG as a listener growing up and would call up and try to say something to get on the air. Even still, radio really wasn’t on the radar for me coming out of high school. I went to college as a pre-med major. I switched after a few weeks to broadcast journalism thinking I would be on TV, but then needed credit hours, so snagged an internship with the morning show at WSNY Columbus, Ohio and it was only then that I got the bug and turned this into a career. My mom has only recently stopped asking me what I’m going to do with my life, so that’s a plus.

BACK THEN My favorite station was Q-FM96, so I would listen to Wags and Elliott in the morning and Joeshow in the afternoon. It was either them or the Morning Zoo on WNCI, along with Chris Davis, and Mark Dantzer. Back then I used to hassle night jocks with requests too, so karma let me experience nights on a Top 40 station.

THE FIRST TIME I CRACKED OPEN A MIC was when I interned at Sunny 95 Columbus working on the morning show. I was lucky that Dino and Stacy put me on the air doing various stunts and bits. But the first time I got the chance to crack the mic for my own shift was after a call from Chuck Knight at 10:30pm on a Friday night. I was at a party at the time and he had someone call in sick. So I hung up the phone, announced to everyone I was going to be on the radio in an hour, slammed some coffee to sober up a little, and pulled a Midnight to 6am shift.  It was terrible, but that was the beginning!

I RECALL ONE OF MY FIRST STUDIO in Terre Haute, I could tap the control board on the upper left and take the station off the air. That was a fun “quirk” I learned the hard way!

AND YES, I WAS HANDED MY SHARE OF LAME PROMOTIONS - always a sales thing isn’t it? Before I learned the power of “no” or “let’s try something else.” I once did a promotion for AARP on a Top 40 station. Oh, and we gave away bidet’s, but that was something we wanted to do.

WHAT KEEPS ME AWAKE AT NIGHT is probably the 800mg of caffeine I ingest every day. No, but honestly, I will go back and rethink decisions I made that day along with going over everything I have to do the following day. But really it’s the caffeine.

SOME OF MY BEST INTERVIEWS are surprisingly not with celebrities but the mini interviews I have every day with listeners. They are so interesting and have some great stories to tell, you’ve just gotta ask.  Anyyyyyway, for celebrities on the air, it is probably Charlie Puth. This man doesn’t get enough credit because he was hysterical, would answer any question, and was a literal genius. Comedians like Kevin Hart, Bert Kreischer, Norm MacDonald, and John Pinette are some of my favs that come to mind too. Now, for interviews that never aired, it was with Taylor Swift and that’s all I can probably legally say about that. haha.

MY PRE-SHOW RITUAL includes that once everything is prepped and I’ve got my coffee, I’ll work on the NYT crossword puzzle for a little bit before showtime just to reset my brain.

WHAT I’VE LEARNED ABOUT RADIO is that aside from being very challenging to make it look and sound great, it’s all about the people and storytelling.

 

 

 

Edison: True Crime Overtakes Comedy As The Most Popular Podcast Topic In The First Half of 2026

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 – In Edision's latest Insights it says True Crime, like podcasting, is sometimes hard to describe. Many people might say that you know it when you hear it, just as podcasts are sometimes described. Many of the largest podcasts, like Crime Junkie, MrBallen and Rotten Mango, are often classified as True Crime podcasts. Q2 2026 data from Edison Podcast Metrics shows that True Crime is now the most popular topic among U.S. weekly podcast consumers. Since 2019, we have asked podcast listeners which topics they ever listen to from a long list of possibilities.

“Comedy” has been the most popular topic since the start of Edison Podcast Metrics in 2019. But in the first half of 2026, there is new leader, with True Crime edging ahead of Comedy to take first place. This rise to the top is part of a long pattern of increased popularity for True Crime. In 2019, True Crime ranked fifth. As the above graph shows, this rank has steadily climbed.

Edison Podcast Metrics also has the unique capability to capture unaided podcast listening among weekly listeners, which can then be mapped back to Apple’s API for assigned primary and subgenres. Genre ranking using that measurement tool is also available to Edison Podcast Metrics subscribers.

Industry experts from Edison Research at SSRS are available to be featured in your next podcast, event, or media story. Email info@edisonresearch.com to talk to a member of our team today. 

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Audacy Debuts 'The Morning Bull With Matt & Lois' On Houston's 100.3 The Bull On September 17

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 – Audacy's 100.3 The Bull (KILT-FM) welcomes Lois "Double-L" Lewis and Matt Wood as co-hosts of the station’s new morning show “The Morning Bull with Matt & Lois.” The show kicks off September 17.

“I am so excited about the pairing of Matt Wood and Lois Lewis. Both have had very impressive careers and have set themselves apart from their contemporaries, and when we put them together, the chemistry was almost instantaneous,” said Bruce Logan, Brand Manager, 100.3 The Bull. “We wanted to build Houston's best morning show, a show that cares about the community and wakes up every morning wanting to make Bull Nation Laugh. The Morning Bull with Matt & Lois is going to change the landscape of Houston mornings.”

“They say everything’s bigger in Texas, and my first conversation with Matt Wood proved it! Our very first FaceTime lasted two hours and 14 minutes, with big energy and morning-show chemistry right outta the chute,” said Lewis. “I’ve admired Hall of Famers Bruce Logan and Chris Huff for years, and it didn’t take long to understand why Sarah Frazier is the Ultimate Boss Lady. I’m so grateful they’ve invited me to join this team. I can’t wait to dive into Houston, connect with our community and clients, and bring our BIG ENERGY to The Morning Bull every day. You can't spell THE BULL without Double-L!”

"I could not be more excited to be joining The Bull in Houston. Getting the chance to work with this team is a dream come true. Coming in every day and learning from Bruce and Chris, alongside Lois in the mornings, is about as perfect a situation as anyone could ask for,” said Wood. “Everything I have learned so far about Houston has me excited to jump into the community and be part of the city.”

Lewis began her career at KNIX in Phoenix, followed by a tenure at KIIM-FM in Tucson. Lewis spent seven years at Big Machine Label Group/Republic Nashville. She returned to radio, holding drive-time roles at 95.5 The Bull in Las Vegas in 2016, then had a homecoming at KNIX in Phoenix in 2017.

Wood has enjoyed a career encompassing sports journalism, high-profile morning shows and national syndication. He began at Atlanta’s WQXI, followed by a tenure in Minnesota as Sports Director at KNSI and co-host of the syndicated “Kelly & Wood” program on KZPK. Most recently, Wood co-hosted the nationally syndicated “Taste of Country Mornings” in Nashville.

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Jack Daniel To Retire After 54-Year Radio Career

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 3, 2026 – Beasley Media Group announced today that WKQC-FM Program Director and midday personality Jack Daniel will retire on Sept. 18, 2026, concluding an accomplished 54-year broadcasting career that helped shape the Charlotte radio landscape and influenced generations of broadcasters. Daniel joined Beasley Media Group in 2018 as afternoon host on WKQC-FM (K 104.7). Later he was named Program Director of WSOC-FM (Country 103.7) before assuming programming leadership of WKQC in 2021.

His career began on Sept. 18, 1972, at East Carolina University's campus station, WECU. Daniel went on to hold programming and leadership roles at several Carolinas stations before becoming one of Charlotte's most recognizable broadcast professionals. His career included key leadership positions at WROQ, WBCY, WRFX, WEND and other influential stations including WPEG-FM where, in 1979, he launched Urban icon and current cluster sister-station POWER 98.

"Retirements like this give us the opportunity to reflect on careers that truly make a difference, and Jack Daniel has certainly done that," said Justin Chase, Chief Content Officer of Beasley Media Group. "Since joining Beasley Media Group in 2018, he has demonstrated unwavering professionalism, outstanding leadership, and a genuine passion for local radio. Beyond his professional achievements, he has represented our company with integrity throughout the Charlotte community and has generously invested his time in mentoring the next generation of broadcasters. We thank him for everything he has done for our listeners, our team, and our company."

Daniel said, "What is it they say, if you love what you do, it's not work? I've had a great ride and can't think of a better place to wrap it all up than Beasley Media Group in Charlotte, a company that was born in North Carolina. I've met so many great friends in this business."

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KISS-FM Appleton Names Eddie Yberra Permanent Morning Show Co-Host Along With Katie & Nick

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 – Woodward Community Media's 95.9 KISS FM Appleton, WI announced Eddie Yberra has officially joined the morning team with Katie and Nick as a permanent co-host reports WBAY 2's First Alert. Yberra, who also serves as the radio station’s assistant brand manager, stepped into the co-hosting role in April. “As assistant brand manager, Eddie already knows the heartbeat of this station and our listeners. Making his morning role permanent was the absolute right move for the brand and our audience at this time,” brand manager Joe Marroe said.

“I’m thrilled to officially lock in this role and keep building something special in the mornings, while continuing to help lead 95.9 KISS FM behind the mic,” Eddie said. “I’ve had an absolute blast working alongside Katie and Nick every morning since April. The connection we’ve built with each other and with the KISS FM listeners has been incredible.”

In addition to his on-air duties as a permanent member of Eddie, Katie, and Nick on KISS FM, Eddie will continue serving in his role as Assistant Brand Manager for 95.9 KISS FM.

Shown L-R: Nick Vitrano, Katie Schurk and Eddie Yberra - Photo/Woodward Community Media

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Samantha Blake Set To Exit 'Smith & Sam Morning Show' On The Arrow In SLC For Move To Portland

JOCKLINE DAILY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2026 – After a 6-year run, Samantha Blake will soon be headed to Portland, OR following her exit from the 'Smith & Sam Morning Show On The Arrow Salt Lake City.

Jon Smith tipped the move on Instagram, posting: "What can I say about a co-host that has stuck it out with me for 6 years. That’s 1,792 shows. Sitting 4 feet away from me for at least 5 hours a day. Sam is my pal. And she’s leaving. I’m sad. But I’m also happy for her! Sam is moving to Portland and continuing on to be an amazing talent in whatever she decides to do next. I always knew that this day would come, and Sam would move on. I would be disappointed in her if she didn’t. But that being said. I’m going to miss my friend. Good luck, Sam!"

It was noted that Blake will be relocating to Portland OR for a new radio opportunity. Stay tuned for update.

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[WATCH] Jess Announces She's Leaving Mix 106.5 'Kramer & Jess Show,' Calling It A 'Family Decision'

JOCKLINE DAILY, AUGUST 31, 2026 – Mix 106.5 Baltimore's Jessica 'Jess' Dutra, co-host of the popular Kramer & Jess Show for the last six years, announced that she'll be leaving the show this Friday, September 4, 2026, to relocate to Las Vegas with her husband. Kramer will remain and the station is now searching for a new co-host. Jess' called it a family decision to be closer to relatives in Las Vegas. Kramer supported her choice and said the station is looking for a new co-host.

She tells Jockline: “After six incredible years, saying goodbye to The Kramer & Jess Morning Show, Mix 106.5 and the Baltimore community is truly bittersweet. Maryland became home, and I’ll always be grateful for the listeners who welcomed me, grew with me and allowed me to share so much of my life with them. I’m also incredibly thankful for everything I’ve learned and all of the opportunities I’ve had during this chapter of my career with Audacy Baltimore."

Kramer added, "I am so insanely proud of her. It was a big decision and not an easy one to come to, but she’s always been one to follow her heart. That’s something to be admired."

In a staff memo, Director of Programming Tom Cook wrote, 'Jess moved here with Kramer six years ago, tasked with building a fantastic morning show that connected with listeners on-air and on social media. That wouldn't have been an easy task at any time, but especially was challenging in the middle of the pandemic. In the last six years, Jess ingrained herself in Baltimore and Central Maryland," Cook continued. "She bought all the Old Bay, Natty Bo, Ravens, and O's gear, and lived her life on-air and on social with a transparency and openness seldom found in content creators. Jess, we're gonna miss you, no doubt. But we're all excited to see your next chapter as we follow along on IG."

Cook added: "The good news is Kramer has signed a new contract and is staying here! So the search is on for a new co-host. If you know anyone with the skills for this role, please let me know. ... Good Luck, Jess! We love you!" Look for job posting coming soon to the Audacy Job site.

Watch Jess; announcement HERE - and connect with Jess at jess.r.dutra@gmail.com or her website: jessdutra.com

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Tributes Pour In Following The Death of Global Icon Dolly Parton Who Passed Away At 80

JOCKLINE DAILY, AUGUST 26, 2026 – Dolly Parton, the singer, songwriter, actress and philanthropist whose appeal stretched far beyond country radio, died Tuesday in Nashville at 80. An official statement posted at DollyParton.com called her a “global icon and humanitarian” and said she “died peacefully today in Nashville, Tennessee.” Fans were asked to pay tribute on social media and, in lieu of flowers, to donate to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

Radio stations responded quickly. Some aired special programming. Others took the tribute into public view like Hubbard’s myTalk in Minneapolis who put multiple billboards on the street. “She was and is a beloved across nearly every divide that can split people apart,” posted myTalk’s Amy Daniels. “Her famous line ‘it takes a lot of money to look this cheap’ was the Dolly we loved — disarming, relatable and genuine. She was honest about her rags-to-riches upbringing, and humble despite being one of the most gifted and influential artists of all time. Her work and life should inspire us all to leave every place a little more loved and a little more fun than you found it.”

Hosts across all formats added their own notes and memories in massive social media post. Among them included KLOS 95.5 Los Angeles’ Nik Carter who posted on Facebook: “Can’t lie, pretty stoked my boss let me talk about Queen Dolly, and play ‘Jolene’ in the middle of afternoon drive in market number two on a rock station.”

Network TV also turned to radio for perspective. ABC News’ Linsey Davis spoke with iHeartRadio’s Bobby Bones, host of “The Bobby Bones Show.” Asked about Parton’s reach, Bones said she never left the story that made her: “I think she wrote about where she came from and she continued to write about that and never changed, so we always felt she was the same person that represented rural America — that represented even the American Dream. She was born very poor in a very small house. Her dad had to paid the doctor's bill with a bag of corn meal.” Listen HERE

Other outlets like CNN spoke with Audacy's Katie Neal host of the Audacy syndicated 'Katie & Company.' NewsNation reached out to Rowdy Yates - Watch HERE

Country Radio Seminar Executive Director RJ Curtis placed the moment alongside other losses that still define a generation of listeners. “Dolly Parton’s iconic status — and the enormous wave of shock, sadness and grief following her death — reminds me of three other music and entertainment giants who died during my lifetime: Elvis, John Lennon and Michael Jackson,” he wrote. “Though Dolly was 80 and had acknowledged recent health challenges, she still somehow seemed immortal. A force of nature. Someone who would simply keep going, forever. ”

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iHeart Insights: Fear of Online Judgment Is Fueling Radio’s Resurgence Among Gen Z

JOCKLINE DAILY, AUGUST 21, 2026 – On a panel discussion with the Jonas Brothers this week at the iHeartMedia Headquarters in New York, Lainie Fertick, President of Insights for iHeart released new research showing that Gen Z is driving a quiet resurgence in broadcast radio. According to Nielsen, radio reaches 90% of teens (13–19) monthly—ahead of YouTube (75%), TikTok (58%), and ad-supported Spotify (26%). Edison Share of Ear data further shows radio capturing 47% of Gen Z’s ad-supported audio time, outpacing streaming music (31%) and podcasts (21%).

Growing up amid social media and constant evaluation has left many young people wary of judgment. Forty percent have withheld posts out of fear of embarrassment, 44% have cut back on social media, and roughly 7 in 10 worry about being judged for the music they play—more than double the rate among those 35 and older. Radio removes that pressure: 85% of Gen Z feel less likely to be judged when listening with others, 77% call it safer in group settings, and 84% default to it in the car with company.

This makes Gen Z the strongest co-listening generation—63% frequently or almost always listen with others (versus 42% overall), especially with friends, parents, and siblings, often in the late afternoon or evening. Shared listening sparks conversation: 80% like talking about what they hear on the radio, 91% say it gives their circles something to discuss, and many are more likely to search for songs, artists, or brands mentioned out loud.

In short, radio offers Gen Z external curation, emotional validation, and conflict-free entertainment that streaming’s solitary, on-demand model cannot match—creating a natural environment for cultural moments and brand engagement as the generation’s purchasing power grows. The findings were shared during a panel with the Jonas Brothers at iHeartMedia’s New York headquarters on August 19.

Top Photo - iHeartRadio's Bob Pittman speaks at Gen Z x Radio Event - Bottom Photo - (L-R) Joe Jonas, Kevin Jonas, Nick Jonas and Will Pearson join for panel. Photos by Manny Carabel/Getty Images for iHeartRadio

Read complete report HERE

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ABC Sues FCC, Alleging First Amendment Violations

JOCKLINE DAILY, AUGUST 19, 2026 – The ABC network and its parent company, the Walt Disney Co., filed a federal lawsuit on Tuesday against the Federal Communications Commission, accusing the current administration of violating the network’s First Amendment rights. According to a report from NPR, the complaint alleges that the FCC has launched investigations and forced early license-renewal reviews of eight ABC-owned stations as retaliation for the network’s news coverage, the satirical commentary of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, and opinions expressed on the daytime talk show The View.

NPR notes that the lawsuit opens with a stark declaration—“Government censorship is deeply un-American”—and cites a recent unanimous Supreme Court ruling that the government may not use its power to punish or suppress disfavored speech. ABC and Disney argue that these regulatory moves are designed to appease President Trump, who has repeatedly called for the network to be stripped of its broadcast licenses over content that has drawn his public criticism.

"This case concerns the Administration's sustained effort to do just that," the ABC/Disney lawsuit argues. "The Administration has waged a retaliatory campaign against ABC for a single reason: it disapproves of what ABC broadcasts." In an interview with NPR on Tuesday evening, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said that Disney and ABC were jumping the gun. He noted that the agency had not yet made any decision about whether to renew the licenses.

"We're very principled on this," Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro told CNBC's Julia Boorstin last week. "We're going to stand up to what we believe is journalistic integrity, and we're not going to be told how to run that side of our business."Read article HERE

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Now For A Limited Time: MSBC's Special 'Alliance For Women In Media' Membership Offer Extended

18 Months of Membership For The Price of 12

JOCKLINE DAILY, AUGUST 19, 2026 – The Alliance for Women In Media (AWM) was proud to once again sponsor the Women’s Networking Lunch at this year’s Morning Show Boot Camp. As an extension of that partnership, we’re excited to offer attendees a special AWM membership opportunity: 18 months of membership for the price of 12.

AWM is an organization for women and men across all media segments, helping members expand networks and celebrate accomplishments. It is the only organization where members can connect with others in radio and audio while also meeting colleagues in television, streaming and digital media. We want to personally invite you to become a member and help support and recognize women across all media.

As a member, you’ll gain access to exclusive benefits like AWM Office Hours where you can learn from and build connection with senior-level media executives; the Gracie Interview Series, featuring insights from honorees across all segments of media; and online Knowledge Center that provides access to past sessions and masterclasses on media topics - plus more.

Through this special Morning Show Boot Camp offer, your membership will be active through February 2028 — giving you 18 months of membership for the price of 12. The membership application is online at allwomeninmedia.org/membership. Click the “Professional Members Join Now” button and enter Code AWMWB26 to receive your discounted rate.

This offer will be good through September 15, 2026. Please email amy.burton@allwomeninmedia.org with questions. There has never been a better time to join and be part of an organization that has championed women across all media for nearly eight decades.

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Hot Takes From Fred Jacobs 'One-On-One' 'With Connoisseur Media's Jeff Warshaw At MSBC 38

JOCKLINE DAILY, AUGUST 17, 2026 – In Fred Jacob's Friday Blog titled 'An Update From The Corner Office,' he wrote: "These days, when a company schedules deep reductions in force, there is rarely an accompanying letter of explanation or even rationalization. And even when companies attempt to position its cost-savings pivot, most radio people don’t seem especially convinced of the rationale, the reasoning, or the reality.

Of course, while the numbers are the numbers, adept company officers have the ability to spin a good yarn, leaning into the best news while evading results that are more difficult to explain away. Most of the time, these calls aren’t especially unique. Tune in enough of them, and you begin to get the nagging feeling you’ve heard it all before. But this quarter’s calls seem to be landing differently as chief executives try to make sense of their own numbers.

Jacobs referenced recent quotes on today's industry climate by a few company heads before adding, "Then there’s Connoisseur Media's Founder/CEO, Jeff Warshaw - a free-speaking chief executive with no shortage of hot takes on the radio broadcasting industry. I should know. I interviewed him during a free-wheeling 'one-on-one' at the 38th Morning Show Boot Camp in Cleveland."

Greeted by a cheering section of a Connoisseur attendees who attended, including executives, format captains, and talent, Jeff took the stage ready to answer my questions. "You won’t read any of his responses in Wall Street proforma for Connoisseur, but you’ll read why Jeff is most certainly cut from a different cloth," said Warshaw.

Among Warshaw's memorable quotes: “The single greatest contributor to a station’s success is the market manager. They make decisions, keep morale high, meet with the Mayor when he needs to talk, or the big local car dealer. You need someone local who is responsible for the local market strategy.”

And this led to Jeff’s final quote – "The concept of running this business without any people just isn’t interesting to me.” Read entire blog HERE - Photo/Courtesy of Paul Jacobs

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Edison: Streaming Music Now Has Highest Daily Music Reach With 46% of Americans 13+

JOCKLINE DAILY, AUGUST 13, 2026 – Countless editions of Edison's Insights have illustrated the power of music in reaching audiences daily. Eighty-seven percent of Americans 13+ engage with music listening in some form daily. Share of Ear® from Edison Research at SSRS, shows which music platforms have the highest daily reach, and how that has changed over time.

AM/FM radio was the clear and decisive music leader in Share of Ear’s first releases, but the platform’s music dominance has fallen over time. In 2015, 61% of Americans 13+ reported listening to any music via AM/FM Radio or Radio Streams during their listening day. At that time just over one-quarter, 27%, of Americans reported listening to any Streaming Music during their day, significantly below Radio’s daily music reach.

As of Q2 2026, Streaming Music now has the highest daily music reach, at 46% of Americans 13+. AM/FM daily music reach is not too far behind at 43%. However, advertisers might be more interested in the reach of ad-supported music, and in that case AM/FM music radio enjoys more than double the reach of Streaming Music, as much of Streaming Music’s listening goes to paid, non-commercial options.

For ad-supported music listening reach, AM/FM Radio and radio streams lead Streaming Music 43% to 19%. Share of Ear not only captures daily music reach for AM/FM Radio and Streaming Music, but for all platforms across the audio ecosystem.

Contact our team today to learn more about a full Share of Ear subscription. Industry experts from Edison Research at SSRS are available to be featured in your next podcast, event, or media story. Email info@edisonresearch.com to talk to a member of our team today.

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[WATCH] What The Listener Truth Project Revealed About Radio; Convenience, Connection Ring Loud

JOCKLINE DAILY, AUGUST 11, 2026 – Last Friday, Coleman Insights presented the results of its 'Listener Truth Project' at Morning Show Boot Camp in Cleveland. Ten listeners from various Top 50 markets across the United States, between 24 and 46, shared why they still listen to radio in 2026 and what keeps them away. The twist? Morning Show Boot Camp attendees were invited to submit the questions.

The though-line throughout this study is connection. Connection manifests itself in several ways in which these listeners talk about radio. It is not unique when listeners tell us they use radio as an escape, but many of these ten listeners express an elevated type of emotional trauma from the world. They talk about being “overwhelmed” and “bombarded” and use words like “onslaught” and “horrors” when mentioning their exposure to the news cycle. FM music radio is an escape hatch, essentially playing the role of a therapist. Here, they explain a few things they want from radio, and also what they don’t, starting with 24-year-old Cyan.

Convenience, Connection, and Mood are consistent themes that emerge in this research. Listen to Jesus towards the end of his clip, who describes how he chooses his morning station. It’s not driven by a certain personality or segment – rather, he listens to his local Contemporary Christian station when he wakes up feeling down, and an Adult Contemporary station when he’s feeling good and wants to stay that way.

In the last section, Alex gives an honest assessment of why radio needs to remain vital, which again ties back to a crucial connection. Even when talking about commercials, the idea of connection comes up. Listeners understand that commercials are the price to pay for radio being free, and their frustration isn’t so much with the commercials themselves. Rather, it’s with the quality and number of spots played in a row. They recognize that good commercials provide a connection to their community.

There are fascinating insights from several Gen Z listeners. While song repetition is a universal frustration with radio, 24-year-old Carolyn believes radio is more random than Spotify and that she loves the nostalgia aspect.

Other themes addressed in the study include whether FM music stations still need to offer weather and traffic; if teases work; how valuable contesting is; and their feelings on AI DJs vs. humans. Keep an eye out for more from The Listener Truth Project. Special thanks to Don Anthony at Morning Show Boot Camp and Radio Resources for their sponsorship support. - WATCH HERE

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Audacy’s Mix 104.1 Host Kennedy Elsey Accepts The 2026 MIW Airblazer Award At MSBC Cleveland

JOCKLINE DAILY, AUGUST 10, 2026 – Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. (MIW), in partnership with Talentmasters MSBC, shares that Kennedy Elsey, co-host of The Karson & Kennedy morning show on Audacy's MIX 104.1 (WBMX-FM) in Boston, officially accepted the 2026 MIW Airblazer Award during last Friday's Talentmasters MSBC Luncheon in Cleveland, Ohio.

Established through a partnership between MIW and Talentmasters MSBC in 2015, the MIW Airblazer Award recognizes women who have made outstanding contributions to the radio industry while using their platform to positively impact the communities they serve. As tradition dictates, each year's recipient is selected by the previous year's Airblazer honoree.

Kennedy was chosen by 2025 recipient Karen Carson of Karen Carson In The Morning on Audacy's NEW 102.7 FM in New York. Previous MIW Airblazer recipients include Delilah (2024), Dana Cortez (2023), Patty Steele (2022), DeDe McGuire (2021), Angela Yee (2020), Kellie Rasberry (2019), Mercedes Martinez (2018), Roula Christie (2017), Angie Martinez (2016), and Ellen K (2015).

For more information about MIW and the Airblazer Award, please visit www.RadioMIW.com. Photo, Kennedy at podium, with MIW Preseident-elect/Urban One's Lori Flowers seated.

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REPORT: DTS AutoStage Delivers Radio’s Big Data Moment: Daily Ratings From 6 Million Vehicles

JOCKLINE, JULY 21, 2026 – Xperi’s DTS AutoStage is now reporting in-car AM/FM radio audiences in over 300 local U.S. markets from 6 million vehicles. In a first for the radio industry, the new data includes overnight ratings in all 300 markets. This week’s Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active® group blog examines how AM/FM radio’s “big data” moment has arrived. TV has long had cable set top data and smart TV data to generate large samples of tuning data. It’s now radio’s turn!

Just like cable set top data, there are no demographics but all markets have large samples. Overall, sample sizes are 5-10X bigger than current ratings samples. Overnight ratings in over 300 markets: In an industry first, every market now has audience shares from yesterday. See your station’s daily audience trends refreshed each day.

All listening occurs with humans present: 25% of TV viewing occurs to an empty room but AM/FM radio listening in traveling vehicles always has humans present! Large samples mean stable listening trends: In all sized markets and for all sized stations, daily share trends are stable and consistent. AM/FM radio now has modern, cutting edge, timely measurement, which does not rely on a consumer's memory or require a consumer to do something (like wear a gizmo).

In-car AM/FM radio listening represents the largest exposure to Americans Edison’s “Share of Ear” report reveals AM/FM radio has a stunning 85% share of in-car ad-supported time spent. See Report HERE

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Dollar General Literacy Foundation Launches 2026 Yellow Glasses Project With Bobby Bones & iHeart

JOCKLINE, JULY 21, 2026 – The Dollar General Literacy Foundation kicked off its seventh annual Yellow Glasses Project on July 20, 2026, in partnership with iHeartRadio and country radio host Bobby Bones. Customers can buy the signature yellow sunglasses for $2 at participating Dollar General stores through September 8, 2026 (International Literacy Day), while supplies last. All proceeds benefit the Foundation’s grants for literacy and education programs at schools, libraries, and nonprofits in Dollar General communities.Since launching in 2020, the campaign has raised more than $7 million, supporting millions of learners nationwide.

"I know firsthand how education can impact your life,” shared Bobby Bones. “I was the first person in my family to graduate high school, and that opened a door I didn't know was there, which is why I'm so passionate about partnering with the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. A little bit of support at the right moment can open a world of possibilities. Literacy isn’t just about learning to read. It’s about having the confidence to dream bigger."

Additionally, iHeart has committed both a cash donation and in-kind media support through a series of on-air PSAs helping to raise awareness around the importance of literacy in communities and to amplify the Foundation’s mission.

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Edison: AI Multi-Cast Narration Outperforms Human Narration In Largest Study of Its Kind

JOCKLINE, JULY 15, 2026 – Spoken, the AI Audiobook Company, released results from an independent Edison Research study showing that its multi-cast AI narration was rated higher than professional single-narrator human productions for character-driven fiction.

Over 1,000 U.S. fiction audiobook listeners were randomly assigned blinded excerpts of a new sci-fi thriller. One group heard a traditional human-narrated version; the other heard Spoken’s unedited Multi-Cast™ version.

Key findings: Overall favorability: Spoken Multi-Cast 61% vs. human 53%. Perceived narration quality: Spoken 66% vs. human 60% Engagement: Spoken 58% vs. human 49% After hearing the excerpts, listeners’ likelihood of listening to an AI-narrated audiobook more than doubled (from 31% to 65%). 61% of those who heard Spoken’s version believed it was human-narrated. Spoken 46% vs. human 49%), even after learning it was AI. Frequent audiobook listeners showed strong preference for distinct character voices (81% interested).

The study found that human narration performed better on pure exposition, while Spoken’s multi-cast approach excelled in character-driven scenes.“Quality matters more than whether the narration is human or AI,” said Megan Lazovick, VP of Edison Research. “Listeners are open to whatever improves their experience.”Spoken CEO Phil Marshall added: “Readers want to get lost in the story. High-quality multi-cast narration is what they want, and our one-click solution delivers it at a fraction of the cost of traditional production.” The full study is available at: https://spoken.press/edisonsurvey

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WSM Radio Host Eryn Cooper Featured In 2nd Season of Acclaimed German Music Docuseries

JOCKLINE, JULY 14, 2026 – Popular WSM Radio and Grand Ole Opry personality Eryn Cooper is featured in the fourth episode of the second season of 'Song Trip,' the acclaimed German music docuseries that pairs major European artists with musicians and creatives around the world for a deep dive into local music scenes.

The episode, Peter Maffay x Nashville, follows legendary German rocker Peter Maffay as he explores Music City’s rich country music heritage, collaborating with local artists and recording a new interpretation of his song “Sonne in der Nacht.” Along the way, Maffay sits down with Cooper and veteran Nashville creative David Graham to gain a deeper understanding of the stories, traditions, and songwriting culture that have shaped the genre.

Maffay, one of the most successful artists in German music history, has spent more than five decades at the top of the industry. Across his career, he has released more than 50 albums, sold over 50 million records, and holds the record for the most No. 1 albums by any artist in a single country, with more than 20 chart-toppers in Germany.

Now in its second season, Song Trip airs on German public broadcaster ZDF and sends internationally known artists outside their comfort zones to immerse themselves in musical communities across the globe. Episodes are available to stream worldwide through ZDF’s platform.

For Cooper, whose career spans more than a decade across sports, news, country, and pop music, the appearance marks another milestone in her growing international profile. In addition to hosting On Air With Eryn on WSM Radio and The NashUp on the UK’s CountryLine Radio, Cooper has also appeared on outlets including the BBC and Germany’s ZDF. The new season of Song Trip premiered on June 29 and will remain available to stream globally on ZDF for five years. Watch the full episode here.

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'The Dave & Mahoney Show' Adds 60th Affiliate WZRH-FM ALT 92.3 New Orleans

JOCKLINE, JULY 7, 2026 – The Dave & Mahoney Show, built on friendship, curiosity and a love of the absurd, welcomes Cumulus Media owned ALT 92.3 New Orleans Rock Alternative. Hosted by Dave Farra, Jason Mahoney along with Audrey Drake, the show focuses on humor, sports and pop culture. Chris Stryker OM, Program Director WZRH states, “We are excited to welcome Dave & Mahoney to the Alt 92.3 family in New Orleans! We’re looking forward to a show that matches the energy of Crescent City.”

Dave Farra, co-host of Dave and Mahoney, said, “We are thrilled to be adding our 60th affiliate with Alt 92.3. The trust that top-level programmers and executives, like the team at Cumulus New Orleans, are putting in our show is humbling. And you can bet your last dollar that we are going to work our butts off to make sure this is a win for everyone involved.”

Compass Media Networks’ Vice President Music & Entertainment, Doug Ingold adds, “The addition of the New Orleans market represents another significant step in the growth trajectory of The Dave & Mahoney Show. The show has proven it can succeed across formats, delivering a unique content blend that fits Rock, Classic Rock, and Alternative stations in morning drive. ALT 92.3 is a major player in the Alternative orbit and marks our 60th affiliate.”

For more info, contact Doug Ingold (310) 242-8746 or email dingold@compassmedianetworks.com.

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Building Shows To Last - 'Get In Your Lane And Own It - Be The Mayor' - Paul Castronovo

JOCKLINE, JULY 6, 2026 – Among the featured sessions at this year’s 38th Annual MSBC Cleveland is “Building Shows To Last,” led by talent specialist Angela Perelli. She'll moderate a panel of veteran radio hosts who have built careers defined by both longevity and consistent ratings success. In advance of next month's session, Jockline spoke with a few top radio personalities about what it takes to create and sustain a show over the long term. Even one that's aired in the same market for over 40-years.

For more than four decades, Paul Castronovo (center) has been one of South Florida’s most familiar and beloved radio voices. He got his start at the University of Florida and quickly became a fixture on Miami’s airwaves. He’s best known for the legendary 26-year run of The Paul & Young Ron Show, which defined morning radio for a generation. Since 2016, he’s continued flying solo as host of The Paul Castronovo Show on iHeart's Big 105.9, recently signing a new long-term deal that keeps the show going strong.

After many years of being part of the wildly successful 'Paul & Young Ron Show,' Ron left and you had to literally rebuild the show - and more than once. Where's the show today?

When Young Ron left the show in 2016, my ego said that it doesn’t matter who does the show with me. It will be fine. I was wrong. The first incarnation of the program didn’t last very long and within a year I had to start all over. One of the key players we brought in was Mike Anderson (top left), who is with me now and most recently we brought in a comedian in Luis Diaz (top right), who was part of the original show right after Ron left. I feel that the chemistry we have, and the addition of Wendi Grossman doing the news has made the show the best it’s been since Ron left, and the listeners are responding and so are the ratings.

Having been on the air for over 40-years in the same city, how do you keep the show feeling fresh and personal to listeners even after thousands of hours on air?

One of the things that I do with my crew is I ask each player to put together a list of things going on in their lives, things they found online, whether it’s audio, ideas,  thoughts, whatever, and we each email a one sheet to each other every day, that way each of us brings elements of our personality to the show. I’m funniest when I don’t have to present everything and I can just react to other people stories.

What does your ongoing show prep or content development process look like today compared to when you started?

** When I first started, all we had was newspapers and magazines, so my show prep was basically me with a pair of scissors clipping stuff to talk about on the radio. When I read Phil Rosenthal’s book - he’s the guy that created 'Everybody loves Raymond - Something really jumped out at me when he talked about the episodes of that show all came from his personal life and that’s when the lightbulb really went off… because content like that really  resonates with listeners.

What’s something about building and sustaining a top-rated show for decades that newer talent usually misunderstand or underestimate?

One thing I’ve seen from some of the younger people that have come through, is that they want success instantly. I’ve had them ask me questions like, “how come you get to drive a free car just for doing commercials?” Well, it’s about the relationships I've made over the past 40+ years in the market. For the first 25 years, I hosted every event, every Bar gig, every charity event, and I still do that. I don’t think the younger generation gets or understands that…you need to be a politician. I understand social media is a big deal now and I’m all over it, but shaking hands and getting to know people is very important.

Looking across your entire run, what’s one piece of conventional radio wisdom you’ve come to believe most, or least?

Someone once said to me, “radio is just like another appliance in your house, it’s way more important to us than to them” I call BS on that one. People remember so much that I’m always amazed by them. And we are working way too hard! I always hated replaying bits over and over but research has shown me that most people don’t listen nearly as long as we think they do, so replaying your A material is crucial!

What advice would you give someone at this year's MSBC who's navigating a fairly new show who wants it to still be relevant and successful 10–20 years from now?

Figure out what you want the show to be. Are you the funny show? The relationship show? Get in your lane and own it. Don’t be a dick. Own the market. Be the Mayor. Buy listeners a drink now and then. Do charity work!

What do you hope the show’s legacy will be, beyond ratings or awards?

**Well at this point, I’m the longest running show in South Florida history, I’d like to be remembered as the funniest. (And maybe being a member of Radio's Hall of Fame)

Connect with Paul, Mike and Luis at this year's 'Boot Camp.

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EDISON: Weekly AI Usage Up 36 Million In 3 Mos., Estimated 175.5 Million Adults Use AI Weekly

JOCKLINE, MAY 28, 2026 – Brand new data from AI User Metrics, a subscription service from Edison Research at SSRS, measures monumental growth in weekly AI usage among Americans 18+. AI User Metrics fields twice a month to capture overall AI platform awareness and usage, with tracking data back to Q1 of 2026.

In February of this year, we published an insight showing that 52% of Americans use any AI chatbot weekly. The latest AI User Metrics release shows a significant increase in weekly AI usage, jumping from 52% to 65%. Overall, an estimated 175.5 million American adults use AI weekly, an increase of over 35.6 million people over the past three months.

It’s hard to think of any recent media platform or technology that has experienced the same or similar growth in such a short amount of time.

More results and findings from the latest release of AI User Metrics can be found in our May 2026 AI User Metrics Report. AI User Metrics leverages the probability-based SSRS Opinion Panel, with 100+ demographic variables to append the data, accurately measuring American adoption of AI. Contact our team to learn more about AI User Metrics and our other AI research.

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iHeartMedia And Netflix Deepen Partnership With Daily Live Video Stream of 'The Breakfast Club'

 

 

The 2% Trap: Why Your Contests Are Boring 98% of Your Audience To Death - Tracy Johnson

Read article HERE

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'The Real Reason Your Show Isn’t Working (It’s Probably Not What You Think) - Tracy Johnson

Read article HERE

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iHeart And TikTok To Launch TikTok Radio Today And Inaugural TikTok Podcast Network

 

Tracy Johnson: Five Fresh Formats That Go Beyond The Rules And Mechanics Of Legacy Formats

JOCKLINE, FEBRUARY 24TH, 2026 – n part six of Tracy Johnson's 'Radio In 2026' series, he says If you accept the premise of my previous article, that relevance requires sacrifice, then the natural next question is this: What would radio look like if it stopped protecting legacy rules and started building formats for how people actually consume audio now?

We need new ideas that can attract a fanbase beyond the mechanics and formatics of traditional formats like news/talk, Classic Rock, and AC. There are hundreds of possibilities for new radio station formats or show themes, but these ideas are not tweaks. It’s not a solution for PDs looking for easy wins or managers who would prefer to cherry-pick an idea or two. Nor are they blanket recommendations for every station cluster or market. There is no magic pill that will win every ratings battle or elevate you from irrelevance to dominance.

But maybe these could work for you. Or maybe it will inspire a fresh idea of your own.

1. Contests and Games This format is designed for stations that still want to compete inside the ratings system, flaws and all, but understand that engagement beats mechanics. It turns contests into recurring, recognizable franchises that listeners follow, anticipate, and talk about even when they’re not playing. Radio thinks of contests as a utility. They are designed to promote, drive tune-in, and meet sales targets. And then they’re gone. That mindset is why most contests attract prize pigs instead of fans. Compatible content from one quarter-hour to the next creates a ratings snowball far more than changing the type of content. This has dramatic TSL implications.

Games are entertainment focused on the play-along factor. They can succeed with or without prizes. Contests appeal to greed based on incentivized call-to-actions and are a transactional ratings grab. The combination is a tactical ratings juggernaut with a brand-building content benefit. A game-show format includes incentives for the prize pigs and engaging fun for the masses. This is how you create appointment listening (contests) and habits (games) without a massive promotions budget. Most importantly, a game-show format reclaims something radio has quietly lost. Fun!

Next up: 2. 'The Drama Channel: Lifestyle Storytelling' - Read entire blog HERE for more detail on all five.

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iHeart Chicago Stations Raised $925,831.00 During Its Annual 'Lurie Children’s Radiothon'

JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 15TH, 2025 – iHeartMedia Chicago announced that “Lurie Children’s Radiothon” raised $925,831.00 in support of the patients and families at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. The “Lurie Children’s Radiothon” was broadcast live on Thursday, December 11

“The Lurie Children’s Radiothon is more than an event—it’s a celebration of hope and community,” said Adam Kurtz, Region President for iHeartMedia Chicago. “We are honored to join forces with our partners and listeners to support the incredible care Lurie Children’s provides to patients and families across Chicagoland.” "The Radiothon represents a truly vital partnership that allows us to spotlight the resilience of our young patients and the dedication of our care teams who champion children's health every day," said Dr. Thomas Shanley, President & CEO of Lurie Children's.

"Our collaboration with iHeartMedia Chicago and the incredible generosity of their listeners empowers us to transform the lives of children in our community and across the broader region we serve." For the past six years, the radiothon has raised over $4.6 million to benefit Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.

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Q3 2025 Edison: Podcast Audiences Older Demos Surge From 29 To 39 Median Age Since 2017

JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 12TH, 2025 – Westwood One's analysis of Edison Research’s Q3 “Share of Ear.” study of 4,000 Americans shows that AM/FM radio still dominates ad-supported audio with a 64% share, followed by podcasts (20%). Ad-supported music streaming platforms have audience shares in the low to mid-single digits: Spotify (6%), Pandora (5%), YouTube Music (1%), and Amazon Music (1%).

Of note, As older demographics flock to podcasts, the median age of the podcast audience ages sharply In 2017, podcasts’ daily reach was greatest among 18-24s. Eight years later, podcasts’ daily reach has surged, especially in older demographics. The older the age group, the greater the growth in the podcast daily audience.

Today, podcasts’ greatest reach centers on 25-44s, with significant growth among 45-64s. The podcast median age soars from 29 in 2017 to 39 due to a massive influx of older listeners The last two years have seen podcasts’ median age grow from 34 in 2023 to 39 in this recent Q3 2025 report. Still, podcasts remain one of the youngest media platforms.

You’ll miss two-thirds of America if your audio media plan only has digital audio; Adding AM/FM radio causes reach to surge from 33% to 74% of the U.S. The net reach of Spotify, Pandora, and podcasts only reaches one-third of Americans. Adding AM/FM radio to the media plan causes reach to surge from 33% to 74%. Read full report HERE

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Edison: The Radio Receiver Remains The Dominant Device For Listening To AM/FM By 13+ In The U.S.

JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 20TH, 2025 – According to Edison's latest Insights, it shares that listening to streamed audio content on phones, computers, smart speakers, and smart televisions now dominates the audio sphere. While AM/FM radio is available on all these digital devices, the radio receiver remains the dominant device the U.S. 13+ population uses to listen to AM/FM radio during an average day.

Back in 2015, 93% of time spent listening to AM/FM radio was done using a radio receiver. Smart speakers were just being released, and households were less likely to own smart TVs than they are now. Ten years later, the portion of AM/FM listening done over a traditional receiver has dropped to 87%. The mobile device and smart speaker have made small gains over the past ten years, chipping away at the radio receiver’s primacy. Broadcast radio companies have made efforts to embrace digital platforms and technologies, but the traditional radio receiver continues to dramatically outperform all other devices for radio listening.

Naturally, in-car listening is a very large portion of time spent with AM/FM, and listening in this environment is almost entirely on a traditional receiver. But even in other locations, radio listening is mostly happening to the ‘over-the-air' signal on receivers. Share of Ear® captures listening habits across platforms, devices, locations, and content types. Trending analyses like the one shown above are available for full subscribers.

The Record from Edison Research and Nielsen is a quarterly report card on how U.S. consumers spend their listening day, specifically focused on the adsupported audio environment. For Q3 2025, daily audio consumption of ALL audio among those ages 13+ totaled 3 hours and 53 minutes across ad-supported and ad-free platforms like radio, podcasts, streaming music services, and satellite radio. Ad-supported audio accounted for 64% of all listening in Q3 2025. In looking only at this ad supported audio universe, listeners age 13+ spent 62% of their daily time in the third quarter with radio, 20% with podcasts, 15% with streaming music and 3% with satellite radio.

Click here to see The Record for Q3 2025.

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WRVW-FM Ricki Sanchez Gets 'The Last Word' 'Being A Woman On The Air Is My Super Power'

THE MOUTH, SEPTMEMBER 1, 2026 - It's time again for 'The Last Word' where we cast the spotlight on Ricki Sanchez, host and chaos coordinator of 'Ricki, Zac & Manno In The Morning' on iHeart's 107.5 The River/WRVW-FM Nashville. Her résumé includes a whole lot of "fake it 'til you make it" moments, she has a background in radio, podcasting, and creating digital content that focuses on building connections through honest and amusing conversations. When she’s not on air, she’s probably petting someone else’s dog, avoiding adulthood, or making yet another glass of pinot noir disappear. Now Ricki gets the 'Last Word' with Jockline's Don Anthony.

 

I FIRST GOT THE RADIO BUG

MY FIRST STUDIO (something weird about it)

WHAT I’VE LEARNED ABOUT RADIO

THE TRICK TO SURVIVING A NEW OWNER/NEW PARTNER

FIVE YEARS FROM NOW....

OTHER SHOWS I LEARNED FROM (when nobody’s looking)

BEST INTERVIEW QUESTION EVER

CELEBRITY I PISSED OFF

WHAT KEEPS ME AWAKE

WHAT I TELL YOUNG JOCKS

WAS TERRIFIED THE FIRST TIME

THE LISTENER MOMENT THAT GOT ME THINKING

MY PRE-SHOW RITUAL

IF RADIO DISAPPEARED TOMORROW

 

 

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Submission Window Is Now Open For 2026 MIW & NAB 'LAUNCH' Program

THE MOUTH, OCTOBER 8, 2026 - Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. (MIW) and the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) announce that applications for the 2026 LAUNCH Mentorship Program will be accepted October 6–30, 2026. The year-long mentorship program, proudly sponsored by Mr. Master, has expanded eligibility this year to include women working for broadcast technology partners and vendors.

This year, MIW and the NAB Leadership Foundation are expanding eligibility for the program to include women working for technology partners and vendors serving the broadcast industry, widening the applicant pool beyond those working directly for broadcasters and creating an opportunity for more women pursuing careers across the technical side of the industry to participate. In addition, the selected mentee will have the opportunity to attend the 2027 NAB Show in Las Vegas

MIW Board President Sheila Kirby said, “As technology continues to transform every part of the broadcast business, we need more women building, operating and leading the systems that will take our industry forward. Expanding LAUNCH to include women working with our technology partners and vendors allows us to reach talented professionals across a much broader part of the broadcast ecosystem. This program is about giving women access to the mentorship, technical knowledge and relationships that can help turn career potential into long-term leadership.” APPLY HERE

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91X’s Nightmare Before X-Mas Holiday Show With Interpol

JOCKLINE DAILY, OCTOBER 20, 2026 - 91X has announced Interpol will return to San Diego for 91X’s Nightmare Before X-Mas holiday concert on Friday, December 11th. Following a sold-out show in August at The Rady Shell and leading up to a 2027 Spring tour through the Mexican peninsula, the band will perform an intimate show at SOMA San Diego. A local opening band will be announced in late November. “What a dream to see the iconic Interpol at a small venue like SOMA! We can’t wait to share this special night with our listeners.” said 91X Brand Manager and afternoon DJ Hilary Doneux. The band’s latest album, This Mirror Weighs A Ton, was released in August to critical acclaim and an 83 Metascore. The first single “See Out Loud” is spinning on 91X and joins classics like “Obstacle 1,” “PDA,” “Evil,” and “All The Rage Back Home” in the legendary 91X catalog. The concert is produced by LiveNation. 91X (XTRA-FM) is owned by Local Media San Diego, LLC, a San Diego-based media company. LMSD also owns and operates Z90.3 (XHTZ-FM), Magic 92.5 (XHRM-FM), Local Media Digital Labs, a locally-focused digital solutions provider, Local Media San Diego Events for lifestyle event production, and offers in-house video and audio production.

 

 

Hope all is awesome. Wanted to get you this pic of Randy Houser, the star of our latest Secret Session. The best part of the entire show is when he noticed a little girl Baylee Rae, (I would say no more than 7) who was singing every word to his song “Like a Cowboy”. Randy turned and invited Baylee Rae up on stage with him and sang the rest of the song with her. (And she crushed it!) if you haven’t a sec, here’s the link: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/19n2N3wDJv/?mibextid=wwXIfr Let me know what you think. Pic l-r: Rand Houser Manager Nick Hartley, WIRK’s Eddie E, Program Director Grover Collins, Chelsea Taylor, Randy Houser, WIRK’s Beth Stibal, Tim Leary, Magnolia Music Group’s Heather Propper.