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Top Radio News
Michelle Rutkowski Named Brand Manager at WXRT Chicago
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 2, 2025 | 10:03am CT |
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WXRT-FM (93XRT) Chicago appoints Michelle Rutkowski as its new Brand Manager, effective October 13. She will oversee the station's content strategy, talent, operations, and branding, succeeding Laura Duncan, whose final day will be November 3.
"We are excited to welcome Michelle to the WXRT family. Her deep knowledge of the format, along with the strength of her relationships across the region were the drivers of her consistent success in Milwaukee," said Kevin Cassidy, Senior Vice President and Market Manager, Audacy Chicago. "We look forward to her replicating that performance on behalf of WXRT. I would also like to recognize the immense contribution that Laura Duncan made during her tenure as Brand Manager of WXRT. She hands Michelle the keys to a finely tuned muscle car."
Rutkowski, a Chicago native, brings two decades of radio experience to the role. She began her career at WKQX and WLUP before joining Milwaukee's WLUM in 2006, where she advanced from nighttime personality to Music Director and Programmer. In 2016, her responsibilities grew to include programming for three stations -- WLUM, WLDB, and FONZ. Most recently, Rutkowski served as Vice President of Programming and Operations for Milwaukee Radio Alliance, where she oversaw the 2024 launch of Froggy, a Country outlet focused on emerging artists.
"This iconic station has influenced me so much as a listener and shaped my deep love of music, and as a programmer who strives for the level of excellence that WXRT has delivered for decades," Rutkowski said. "It's an absolutely euphoric experience to be welcomed back to my beloved hometown to continue the legacies of those who made WXRT the revered Chicago treasure that it is."
Z93 Returns, 101.5 The Fridge Launches in Dayton
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 2, 2025 | 4:23pm CT |
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Dayton's radio dial is getting a major shakeup with the return of heritage brand Z93 on WGTZ-FM and the launch of new Alternative outlet 101.5 The Fridge on WCLI-FM. WGTZ was previously Adult Hits Jack FM and WCLI was Classic Country Hank FM.
Market Manager Brett Beshore said the return of Z93 brings back a powerhouse that was once a staple in Dayton radio. The revived station will feature familiar voices, including Scott Sharp and longtime Dayton personality Kim Farris, alongside a music mix built around pop and Top 40 hits from the 1980s, 1990s and early 2000s.
"By reuniting popular voices like Scott Sharp, and Dayton's most iconic personality Kim Farris, with a high-energy presentation, we're delivering a station that feels both legendary and fresh," said Beshore. "Z93, Eaton, Dayton and Springfield alive!"
Operations Manager Kevin J. Washington, who once interned at Z93, called its return "a full circle moment." Program Director Joel Murphy added that the station will spotlight artists such as Prince, Michael Jackson, Phil Collins, and Whitney Houston.
In addition, the launch of 101.5 The Fridge brings a new Alternative Rock station to Dayton, featuring artists including Foo Fighters, Green Day and Mumford & Sons. The name references the city's Frigidaire heritage while positioning the brand as "the coolest" new music option in the market.
"Alternative has been missing from Dayton for way too long, and that ends now," said Program Director Kevin Begley. "101.5 The Fridge is here to give the music, and the fans, the home they deserve. This is the soundtrack of a generation, back on the radio where it belongs."
Bobby Bones Hosts Live Taping of Bobbycast Podcast
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 2, 2025 | 2:32pm CT |
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Air personality Bobby Bones and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member Lionel Richie took to the stage at the Paramount Theatre in Austin, TX, for a one-on-one conversation celebrating the September 30 release of Richie's first-ever memoir, "Truly." The sold-out event featured intimate stories from Richie's legendary career, spanning decades of music, fame, and personal triumphs.
"Truly" is a no-holds-barred memoir from the legendary Grammy, Oscar, and Golden Globe-winning superstar who has sold more than 125 million records worldwide.
The hour-long conversation was recorded for an episode of Bones' popular iHeartRadio podcast, BobbyCast. With more than 40 million downloads to date, the podcast continues to spotlight some of the most prolific songwriters, artists and entertainment celebrities who discuss their personal and professional journeys.
Listen to the BobbyCast on iHeartRadio and everywhere podcasts are found.
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iHeartPodcasts Honors Life and Legacy of Jane Goodall
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 2, 2025 | 2:55pm CT |
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iHeartPodcasts is paying tribute to the late Dr. Jane Goodall by revisiting a 2022 episode of "Amazing Wildlife" in which the renowned primatologist reflected on her career and lifelong passion for animals.
Goodall, recognized worldwide as the leading expert on chimpanzees, recalled that her love of animals began in early childhood. "I think it must have begun in my mother's womb, because I popped out loving animals right from the very beginning," she said, noting her mother's story of her taking earthworms to bed at just one year old.
She also shared memories of her first trip from England to Africa at age 23, when her mother's presence was required for her to join expeditions. Against advice from professors not to get close to the animals, Goodall said her dog, Rusty, had taught her otherwise. "You cannot share your life in a meaningful way with any animal and not know that we're not the only beings of personalities, mind and emotion," she said.
The episode highlighted her enduring optimism, as Goodall encouraged listeners to take inspiration from people and projects making a difference. "The media is filled with gloom and doom... but we also need to know the amazing and wonderful and extraordinary projects that are going on around the world," she said.
The episode revisits Goodall's pioneering research, her bond with chimpanzees, and her call to protect the planet and its inhabitants. Listen to the full episode here.
106.7 LITE FM Hosts Touch-A-Truck Family Event
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 2, 2025 | 3:10pm CT |
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iHeartMedia New York's WLTAW (106.7 LITE FM) is bringing families together for a hands-on community experience with its upcoming Touch-A-Truck event. The station's morning show, Cubby and Christine in the Morning, will team with Lincoln Tech to host the event on Saturday, October 4, from 10am-2pm at Lincoln Tech in South Plainfield, NJ.
Touch-A-Truck invites children and adults to explore, climb inside, and interact with a variety of large vehicles, from construction rigs to emergency trucks. The day will also feature food trucks offering local bites, creating a fun and family-friendly atmosphere.
Organizers say the event isn't just about showcasing vehicles, but about giving families a safe, engaging way to spend time together. Visitors can expect plenty of photo opportunities, kids honking horns, and a festive community spirit throughout the day.
Wine on the River Returns to Louisville October 11
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 2, 2025 | 2:49pm CT |
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iHeartMedia Louisville will host its sixth annual Wine on the River event on Saturday, October 11, from 2-6pm at The Belvedere in downtown Louisville. Tickets are available now at WineOnTheRiverLou.com, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the Boys & Girls Club of Kentuckiana. The nonprofit provides safe, positive environments for youth ages 6-18 through after-school programs and mentorship.
The event will feature live performances from Radiotronic, along with a variety of food options from local trucks and restaurants, including North Lime Donuts, Graze Craze, Prepping with Peppers, Annie Up Pizza, Burger World, and Gringos Mexica.
Participating iHeartMedia Louisville stations -- 97.5 WAMZ, 98.9 Kiss FM, 95.7 QMF, 100.5 FM, Real 93.1, News Radio 840 WHAS, Talk Radio 1080, and Sports Talk 790 -- will promote the event and encourage community support.
The event is open to guests 21 and older. More details and a full list of wines and brands are available at WineOnTheRiverLou.com.
Vernon Davis Podcast Joins Cumulus Podcast Network
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 2, 2025 | 10:16am CT |
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Westwood One has announced that "The Next Role" with Vernon Davis has joined the Cumulus Podcast Network. Hosted by former NFL star, Super Bowl champion, and actor/producer Vernon Davis, the new podcast explores career transition and reinvention through cinematic storytelling and in-depth conversations.
The series features athletes, artists, comedians, and entrepreneurs as they share personal stories of transformation, risk-taking, and reinvention. Each episode examines the mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of pursuing new chapters beyond established careers.
The debut episode, released Thursday, features former NFL star and 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame nominee Delanie Walker. Upcoming guests include comedian and actor Rickey Smiley, producer and motivational speaker DeVon Franklin, comedian Jeff Ross, actor Danny Trejo, NFL Hall of Famer Jerry Rice, and model and entrepreneur Eugena Washington.
"The Next Role is more than a podcast -- it's a movement," said Davis. "I created this show to highlight the courage it takes to reinvent yourself, especially after a career in the spotlight."
Collin Jones, President of Westwood One and Cumulus Podcast Network, added, "Vernon Davis brings a rare blend of authenticity, creativity, and drive to the podcast space. His journey from the NFL to Hollywood and beyond is compelling, and The Next Role captures that spirit of reinvention that resonates with so many."
The Next Role with Vernon Davis is available Thursdays on major platforms including YouTube and Apple Podcasts. The show is a Real 85 Productions project, executive produced by Davis, Emmy-nominated filmmaker Joslyn Rose Lyons, and Henry Penzi, with DeShon Hardy as producer.
Chelsea Clinton Launches New Health Podcast
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 2, 2025 | 2:25pm CT |
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Chelsea Clinton has debuted a new weekly podcast, "That Can't Be True," focused on separating fact from fiction in public health. The show launched October 2 with its first two episodes, with new installments arriving every Thursday.
Hosted by Clinton, the podcast addresses controversial and confusing health conversations -- from vaccine hesitancy and raw milk to fluoride and wellness fads. Each week she speaks with doctors, nutrition scientists, parenting experts, and other professionals to fact-check trends, highlight credible science, and counter misinformation.
Clinton, vice chair of both the Clinton Foundation and the Clinton Health Access Initiative, has long been an advocate for health equity and public health awareness. Beyond her foundation work, she is a founding partner of Metrodora Ventures and the author of several books, including the New York Times bestseller She Persisted.
"That Can't Be True" is available now on all major podcast platforms.
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''Family Matters'' Joins Cumulus Podcast Network
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 2, 2025 | 10:29am CT |
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Westwood One has announced that "Family Matters," hosted by CJ Pearson, has joined the Cumulus Podcast Network. The show explores social, cultural, and political issues from a perspective Pearson describes as conservative, culturally aware, and authentically Black.
Each episode features straight talk on one to three hot-button topics, with Pearson aiming to spotlight voices in the Black conservative community. The debut episode, released today, includes conversations with former Biden White House official Yemisi Egbewole, conservative activist Michaelah Montgomery, and Kamala Harris delegate turned Trump supporter Audrey McNeal. Future guests include Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum Annemarie Wiley and PragerU personality Xavaier DuRousseau.
"Joining the Cumulus Podcast Network is a huge moment for Family Matters," said Pearson. "This show is about faith, family, freedom, and fearless truth-telling. I'm proud to be part of a network that values bold ideas and real conversations."
Collin Jones, President of Westwood One and Cumulus Podcast Network, added, "CJ brings a fresh, dynamic energy to our growing portfolio of personality-driven podcasts. His truly unique perspective adds depth, authenticity, and a powerful new dimension to our lineup."
Family Matters will release new episodes every Wednesday and is available on major platforms including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
AMG's Year of Revival Auction Raises $9,500 for Relief
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 2, 2025 | 2:37pm CT |
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Asheville Media Group's The Year of Revival Auction generated $9,500 to benefit the Marshall Relief Alliance, supporting its ongoing mission to help families and businesses rebuild following Hurricane Helene. The online auction ran September 18-25 and featured unique items donated by artists including Tyler Childers, Billy Strings, Joan Jett, Shawn Mendes, Rob Thomas, Bruno Mars, MJ Lenderman, Teddy Swims, Meghan Trainor and others.
"Asheville's listeners, artists, and team rallied together when Helene hit. This auction was another example of that spirit in action," said Tom Davis, Market President of Asheville Media Group.
Marshall Relief Alliance Executive Director Tasha Pumphrey noted the effort's significance. "Every dollar raised means more resources for the families and small businesses that are still rebuilding. What means just as much is the fresh energy this auction has brought to our work. The support and generosity of everyone who placed a bid sent a clear message to Marshall - our community is seen and loved."
Shannon Steele, Marketing Director of Asheville Media Group, added: "The Year of Revival Auction was more than a fundraiser. It's a reminder that we are not defined by the storm that took so much, but by the people who continue to show up and support each other time and time again."
Colleen Valkoun Named VP/Sales at iHeartMedia Milwaukee
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, October 1, 2025 | 10:14am CT |
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iHeartMedia appoints Colleen Valkoun as Vice President of Sales for its cluster in Milwaukee, effective immediately. Valkoun rejoins iHeart from the Milwaukee Radio Alliance, where she most recently served as President and General Manager. She previously held several leadership roles at iHeartMedia Milwaukee, including national sales, vice president of sales, and general manager/president positions.
"Colleen is a proven leader with a track record of success in this market," said Dan Lenz, Market President for iHeartMedia Milwaukee. "Her expertise, energy and passion for Milwaukee and the business community make her the perfect fit for this role. We're thrilled to have her back at iHeartMedia Milwaukee."
"Coming back to iHeartMedia Milwaukee feels like a full circle moment in my career," added Valkoun. "I am excited to reunite with such a talented team and to help drive growth and innovation for our partners and our brands."
A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Valkoun began her radio career with Saga Communications in Milwaukee.
Adams Launches Classic Rock Q106 in Tallahassee
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, October 1, 2025 | 11:00am CT |
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Adams Radio Group flips Hip Hop WQTL-FM in Tallahassee to Classic Rock as "Q106." The station will feature rock anthems and legendary artists from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. The launch follows a weeklong stunt as W-Q-Tay-L, an all-Taylor Swift format that captured local attention before the official rebrand to Q106. The station will also air Alice Cooper's "Alice's Attic" nightly.
"Classic Rock is back in Tallahassee," said Steve Viehmeyer, General Manager of Adams Radio Tallahassee. "For too long, this market has been without a station dedicated to the music people still turn up loud in their cars, garages, and backyards. Q106 fills that gap."
"Q106 is built for this city," added Twiggins, Operations Manager and Program Director. "We're delivering the legends, the energy, and the attitude that only Classic Rock can bring. And it starts now."
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Shifting Dollars to Podcasting Increases Campaign Reach
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, October 1, 2025 | 2:26pm CT |
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Nielsen has expanded its cross-platform media planning platform, Nielsen Media Impact (NMI), to include podcast listening data for the first time, giving the U.S. podcasting industry greater visibility in broader advertising strategies. The enhancement, powered by Edison Research, was unveiled yesterday at the IAB Podcast Upfronts.
Until now, podcast listening data was available only within individual measurement systems. By integrating podcasts into NMI, advertisers can now plan and optimize campaigns across multiple media -- radio, TV, digital, and podcasts -- using a unified system. Industry leaders say this positions podcasts to compete directly with larger media segments for a share of overall ad budgets.
A demonstration at the Upfronts illustrated how reallocating ad spend to podcasts can generate incremental reach without increasing overall budgets. In one example, shifting podcasts' share of a sample media plan from 1% to 21% among adults 18-44 increased reach from 60% to 76%, a 27% lift at no additional cost.
Nielsen Podcast Fusion provides planners with more than just broad category comparisons. The system includes network-level, genre-level, and even show-level podcast data, enabling advertisers to analyze which podcasts add reach, which demographics over-index on podcast listening, and how many impressions are needed to optimize campaigns.
NMI's integration is seen as a "critical next step" in podcasting's growth trajectory, giving the medium an opportunity to expand its share of advertising dollars and solidify its role in multi-platform media planning.
RAB, Nielsen to Host Webinar on Audio Consumption Trends
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, October 1, 2025 | 10:51am CT |
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The Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB), in partnership with Nielsen Audio, will host an exclusive webinar exploring the evolving state of national audio consumption. Scheduled for Tuesday, October 14 at 12pm CT, the presentation titled "Tune Into Growth: Engaging Consumers Across Every Audio Platform" will feature Jon Miller, Nielsen's vice president of audio insights.
Miller will break down when, where, and how consumers are listening across broadcast radio, network radio, streaming, and podcasts, while highlighting implications for advertisers.
The free virtual session aims to provide media planners, buyers, and brand marketers with strategies to effectively integrate audio into brand campaigns. Topics will include changes in consumer listening habits, cross-platform engagement, and data-driven insights from Nielsen's broadcast measurement modernization.
The webinar and supporting resources are open to the advertising community. To register for this presentation, click here.
Emily Harlan Named MIW 2025 Behind the Mic Mentee
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, October 2, 2025 | 0:05am CT |
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Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW) has selected Emily Harlan as its 2025 Behind the Mic mentee. Harlan is the afternoon drive host on KBAY (Bay Country 94.5) San Francisco and a weekend host on KUPL (98.7 The Bull) Portland, OR with Connoisseur Media.
The Behind the Mic Mentorship is a year-long program designed for U.S.-based female air personalities with at least 3-5 years of experience who are focused on advancing their broadcast careers. The mentee receives one-on-one guidance from senior industry leaders in programming, talent development, audience growth, and brand strategy, and will also attend the 2026 NAB Show in Las Vegas.
Beyond her radio roles, Harlan hosts and directs "She's Country," a weekly program highlighting women in country music, and serves as the digital and in-arena host for the NHL's San Jose Sharks.
"Emily is exactly the kind of on-air talent this mentorship was built to support-curious, audience-focused, and committed to growing her voice," said MIW Board President Sheila Kirby. "From her daily drive show to She's Country and her work with the San Jose Sharks, Emily brings range, professionalism, and purpose to every platform. We're thrilled to help accelerate her next chapter."
Harlan said she was honored to be chosen. "This is incredible news, and I'm so grateful to MIW for the opportunity. I know how many talented women are in our field, so it's an honor to be chosen. I'm excited to learn, grow, and make MIW, and our industry proud."
KUT News launches Austin Signal Daily News Magazine
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, October 1, 2025 | 2:57pm CT |
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KUT News will launch a new weekday program, Austin Signal, on October 6. The 30-minute news magazine aims to blend trusted local reporting with Austin's cultural identity, airing weekdays at 1pm on KUT 90.5. Episodes will also be released as a daily podcast and on KUT.org.
To mark its debut, Austin Signal will close its first week with a live broadcast from the Austin City Limits Music Festival on October 10. The program will feature voices from KUT News, KUTX 98.9, Texas Standard and other station podcasts, alongside reporting partners to deliver the day's news, music, arts, and sports.
"At a time when news fatigue is real, Austin Signal offers a fresh, approachable way to stay informed," said KUT News Managing Editor Ben Philpott. "We're combining reliable, award-winning reporting with the creativity of our music and culture teams to reflect the full scope of Central Texas life."
General Manager Debbie Hiott emphasized the importance of continuing to expand local coverage despite the station's loss of more than $1 million in federal funding earlier this year. "Central Texas deserves reliable, accessible news -- and much more of it," she said.
Collaboration is a central element of the new show. KUT News is working with The Texas Tribune's upcoming Austin newsroom, led by veteran journalist Melissa Barrag¡n Taboada, as a founding editorial partner. Taboada said the partnership allows the teams to pool resources and broaden reach while avoiding duplication.
Austin Signal will be hosted by local All Things Considered anchor Jerry Quijano. The production team includes managing producer Kristen Cabrera, managing editor Ben Philpott, showrunner Jimmy Maas, technical director Rayna Sevilla, and a theme composed by Rene Chavez. Fill-in hosts will include Jennifer Stayton, Syeda Carrillo and Miles Bloxson.
Deadline Nears for Lisa McKay Women in Radio Award
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, October 1, 2025 | 3:45pm CT |
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The Country Radio Broadcasters (CRB) and Country Radio Seminar (CRS) are reminding the industry that applications for the Lisa McKay Women in Radio Scholarship close Monday, October 13. The scholarship, created to honor the late Lisa McKay, recognizes her legacy as a pioneering programmer and mentor whose career continues to inspire future leaders in radio.
Eligible applicants include female college seniors majoring in broadcast communications who are involved in radio programming, as well as women with one to three years of experience in radio as a Program Director, Assistant Program Director, or Music Director.
Three recipients will each receive full registration to CRS 2026, round-trip airfare to Nashville, hotel accommodations at the Omni Nashville Hotel, and on-site recognition during CRS week. Applicants must also be first-time CRS attendees.
For more details or to apply, visit CountryRadioSeminar.com.
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