Mike Stern

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Mike Stern is a Classic Rock columnist and Features writer for Barrett Media. He has been with Jacobs Media consulting stations in the Classic Rock, Rock, Alternative and AAA world for more than a decade. Prior to that he programmed stations in Chicago, Detroit, Denver Las Vegas and other markets. He also worked as News/Talk Editor for Radio and Records, wrote about Top 40 Radio for Billboard Magazine and had his own radio talent coaching business called Talent Mechanic. 

What 20 Years of Jacobs Media Survey Data Tells Us About Radio Listening Habits

This year, over 500 stations from across a wide spectrum of formats participated, and over 30,000 people responded.

Atlanta’s ‘Q Morning Crew’ Reveals the Challenges of Replacing a Legend

"It isn’t necessarily about comparing anything to the past. It’s more like, ‘hey, let's be the best versions of ourselves."

Classic Rock Is Still Everywhere You’re Not Looking

Every now and then, the rest of the world sends a message reminding me just how universally popular this body of music is.

How ‘Chaz and AJ’ Built a Radio Partnership That Connects Nearly Three Decades Later

"Do you want a range of emotions? That’s what we try to deliver. A show with a wide variety of different feelings."

How Radio Can Beat Spotify and Apple Music for Summer Concert Listener Attention

While it might be easy to dismiss the issue of concert information as being relevant only for stations that play newer music, the fact is Classic Rock and Hits artists continue to tour and do huge business.

Breaking

The Fred Show Takes Morning Drive at Hot 99.5 and Z104.3 After Exit of Intern John

"These cities and stations are home to a legacy of remarkable voices, and we're honored for the chance to earn our place among them."

Jacobs Media Techsurvey 2026: AM/FM Radio Listening Hits All-Time Low as Digital Surges to 44%

"Last year, broadcast was five points higher, and digital was five points lower. So there's been meaningful movement this year."

NBC Sports Executive Waiting on NFL To Discuss Media Rights Agreement

"At the right time, when the NFL decides that they want to have a conversation with us, our leadership will sit down with them."

John Fanta Added to NBC Sports’ Coverage of the Kentucky Debry

"It's been an amazing first year with NBC Sports and I'm excited and honored to be taking on another new challenge and heading to Churchill Downs."