Digital video’s surge is creating a tailwind for podcasting’s push into video, with IAB projecting U.S. digital video ad spend will top $80 billion in 2026, up 11% year over year. Growth is fueled by CTV adoption and AI-driven buying. Read moreIAB Says Video Ad Spending Set To Surge Past $80 Billion In 2026.
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National Religious Broadcasters is walking a careful line as it asks the FCC to review remarks made by late-night TV host Jimmy Kimmel while also pushing back on the agency’s early license renewal action against Disney stations. The group warns selective enforcement could rattle the entire broadcast system, stressing that accountability must come without undermining confidence in the regulatory process. Read moreNRB Warns FCC Action On Disney Could Set Risky Industry Precedent.
Voting is underway for the 2026 Radio Hall of Fame nominees. Inside Radio spotlights the 2026 Radio Hall of Fame nominees, recognizing their lasting impact on the industry and listeners. Today we focus on more of the 24 nominees for this year’s award. Read moreMeet The 2026 Radio Hall Of Fame Nominees.
Magellan AI is expanding into broadcast radio while challenging how audio is planned and measured, saying the industry hasn’t kept pace with the medium’s evolution. New data shows podcasts extend reach beyond streaming, while improved attribution and host-read ads are reshaping performance, pushing buyers toward more precise, data-driven planning across audio campaigns. Read moreStudy Finds Podcasts Deliver Unique Reach Beyond Streaming Audio.
With greater challenges facing public radio when it comes to simply surviving, programmatic advertising — the automated selling of unsold digital inventory on station streams and podcasts — has become a clear choice for generating much-needed revenue, as noted in the first of a series of webinars conducted by Paragon Consulting. “Programmatic is a really strong avenue to generating new incremental revenue,” says SoundStack CMO Scott Klass. Read moreFor Public Radio, Programmatic Advertising Is More Important Than Ever.
A sharp surge in its advertising technology business powered Entravision Communications to strong first-quarter results, offsetting softer performance in its traditional media segment. The company reported triple-digit revenue growth and a return to profitability, as investments in AI-driven ad tools and expanded sales capacity drove significant gains in its global digital operations. Read moreEntravision Reports Strong Q1 Fueled By AI-Driven Ad Tech Segment.
Auto dealers spent a record $9.96 billion on advertising in 2025. Amid digital’s growth, radio continued to stand out where it matters most—locally—generating nearly $700 million while delivering consistent reach and influencing purchase-ready consumers close to the point of sale. Read moreAuto Dealer Ad Spend Nears $10B; Radio Still Delivers.
Here’s the latest in retail sales and strategy: Retailer pushes “heartbeat” vision for stores… REI and union clash over negotiations ahead of sale event… Mattel CEO says consumer demand for toys remains healthy… GameStop proposes $56 billion acquisition of eBay… Wawa and Flyers mascots launch LTO Gritty Smoothie in Philadelphia-area stores. Read moreProspecting: Target Focuses On Store Experience Revamp Under New Leadership.
The Radio Mercury Awards has announced the finalists for its 2026 competition, recognizing creative achievement in radio and audio advertising across multiple platforms. This year’s finalists include Audacy Studios, iHeartMedia’s Studio 55, Zimmer Communications, and Arnold Worldwide, among others. Read moreRadio Mercury Awards Names 2026 Finalists Ahead Of New York Ceremony.
A familiar voice in Philadelphia country radio is preparing to sign off. Mark Razz, longtime midday host and Program Director at country-formatted WXTU, will retire later this month, concluding a two-decade run with Beasley Media Group and a 26-year career in the market marked by ratings success, industry recognition, and deep listener connections. Read moreWXTU’s Razz Steps Down After Two Decades In Philly Radio.
Hubbard Radio is expanding the responsibilities of one of its top programming executives. Chris Eagan, currently overseeing stations in Chicago, will now add Minneapolis hot AC powerhouse “KS95” to his portfolio. Eagan, who joined Hubbard Radio in January 2025, currently serves as VP Brand & Content for hot AC “101.9 The Mix” WTMX-FM and adult hits “Throwback 100.3” WTBC-FM in Chicago. Read moreHubbard Expands Chris Eagan’s Role To Include ‘KS95’ Minneapolis.
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People Moves
Jodee Woods returns to mornings at Sound Management CHR “U-93” WNDV South Bend, IN. Woods previously hosted mornings solo and as part of the “Bayless and Jodee in the Morning” show with Tim Bayless until 2023. She now partners with Tommy Bickham. Woods was most recently morning co-host at Cumulus Media country “93.3 The Bull” KUBL Salt Lake City. Read moreJodee Woods
Bob Kmetz, who was a longtime reporter/anchor at KDKA Pittsburgh, has passed away. He was 83. Kmetz joined the station in 1972 and was with the station until he retired in 2004. Read moreBob Kmetz
Mercedes Rich rises to Assistant Program Director at Northwestern Media contemporary Christian “Life 107.1” KNWI Des Moines, IA. Rich joined the station last year as Creative Services Director. In her new role she will take on expanded responsibilities within the programming department. Read moreMercedes Rich
