The 2026 Barrett Media Audio Summit is coming together in a way that genuinely excites me. Months have been spent building this lineup, inviting top personalities, executives, programmers, and business leaders. Our goal is to educate, celebrate, and challenge the media business to be better. We will do just that June 30-July 2, 2026 in New York City at the SVA Theatre on West 23rd Street.
One-day, Two-day and Three-day passes are available at BarrettMedia.com. A cluster rate is also available to help GMs/MMs keep costs down. Companies can also pursue barter arrangements to keep costs down by contacting iMar Entertainment here. Be advised, our news media show takes place Tuesday, June 30th. Sports Media is the focus on Wednesday, July 1st. And music radio takes us home on Thursday, July 2nd. If you’re traveling to NYC and need a place to stay, Hotel Hayden has rooms but is almost sold out. We can not add more rooms so reach out today to book your stay. It’s first-come, first-served at this point.
Welcoming Music Radio’s Best and Brightest
These next four individuals each bring something different to our Music Summit. They have gained real experience and a strong understanding of what it takes to wins on radio’s front lines. They’ve programmed incredible brands, entertained the masses, extended their shows into syndication, and even established hall of fame resumes. It’s my pleasure to welcome Broadway Bill Lee, Frank Kramer, Chris Lloyd and Justin Johnson to the 2026 Barrett Media Audio Summit lineup.
Starting with the talent, Broadway Bill Lee is one of the most beloved voices in New York radio history. His longevity at WCBS-FM is not accidental. It is the product of a genuine connection with an audience that very few personalities ever achieve — and a masterclass in what it means to stay relevant across decades of change. The radio hall of famer will join us on Thursday, July 2nd for a special session led by Jim Ryan that includes Scott Shannon and Jim Kerr. This will be a can’t-miss conversation.
Frank Kramer brings a West Coast’s perspective on personality-driven radio with him to the big apple. The Heidi and Frank Show on KLOS has built one of the most devoted morning audiences in the country, and Frank’s understanding of how to make listeners laugh and feel connected to the show is something every programmer and talent in the room will benefit from. His involvement in our Rock panel will add a personality touch alongside some bright programming minds.
Chris Lloyd has operated at the intersection of programming and leadership for years. As WBAB 102.3’s Director of Branding and Programming since 2006, Lloyd’s station has been nominated six times for Rock Station of the Year. Serving as WBLI’s Director of Branding and Programming since 2021, Lloyd has led the brand to a Marconi Award as CHR station of the year in 2024. He also occupies the role of Director of Rock Content for all of Cox Media Group. Chris will join our Rock panel led by Barrett Media’s David Hill. Included in the panel are James Kurdziel, Frank Kramer, and Justin Johnson.
Speaking of Justin Johnson, 98ROCK’s Program Director has helped the station become one of the most talked-about brands in the rock format. Johnson’s station identity resonates beyond the dial — combining strong local presence with a digital and social strategy that reflects how modern radio audiences consume content. The brand’s creativity was especially on display around the Artemis launch. Spend a few minutes to see how 98ROCK capitalized on the moment. Justin understands that winning in 2026 requires more than playing the right songs. He’ll add his programming perspectives alongside Kurdziel, Lloyd, Kramer and Hill on July 2nd.
Though they work in different markets, different formats, and for different companies, all four understand that radio’s future depends on more than music. It needs personality, community, courage, creativity, adaptability and unique skillsets. Whether you are a morning host, music director, program director, market manager, or advertising executive — you’ll get smarter on July 2nd hearing from these gentlemen.
Join Us For the Summit
To secure your seat at the 2026 Barrett Media Audio Summit, visit the Summit section up top. In there, you’ll find additional details on speakers, hotel rooms, and our sponsors. For details on sponsorship opportunities, please contact Stephanie Eads at Stephanie@BarrettMedia.com.
We look forward to seeing you in New York this summer.
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Jason Barrett is the Founder and CEO of Barrett Media. The company launched in September 2015 and has provided consulting services to America’s top audio and video brands, while simultaneously covering the media industry at BarrettMedia.com, becoming a daily destination for media professionals. Prior to Barrett Media, Jason built and programmed 95.7 The Game in San Francisco, and 101 ESPN in St. Louis. He was also the first sports programmer for SportsTalk 950 in Philadelphia, which later became 97.5 The Fanatic. Barrett also led 590 The Fan KFNS in St. Louis, and ESPN 1340/1390 in Poughkeepsie, NY, and worked on-air and behind the scenes at 101.5 WPDH, WTBQ 1110AM, and WPYX 106.5. He also spent two years at ESPN Radio in Bristol, CT producing ‘The Dan Patrick Show’ and ‘GameNight’. JB can be reached on Twitter @SportsRadioPD or by email at Jason@BarrettMedia.com.
