OnTheGoMedia flips Iowa AC station to 90s Hits format. The move adds another outlet to Shawn Dietz’ growing Iowa radio network.
What We Know: Effective Monday, July 6, OnTheGoMedia flipped KDAO-FM Eldora/Marshalltown from AC “Soft Rock 92.9” to 90s Hits “Rewind 93.” The format centers on Pop and Rock hits from the decade, with core artists including Matchbox 20, Sheryl Crow, Alanis Morissette, and Goo Goo Dolls. OnTheGoMedia began operating KDAO-FM and its sister station, Oldies 1190 KDAO, under an LMA agreement on May 1.
What They Said: Owner Shawn Dietz made clear the flip is about more than music. “We are incredibly excited to introduce Rewind 93 to our listeners, but this transition is about much more than a new music format,” Dietz said. “By bringing KDAO-FM into the RadioOnTheGo network, we are doubling down on local news, sports, and weather.” He added that the goal is keeping audiences informed and engaged while delivering advertisers meaningful access to listeners.
What Remains Unclear: It’s unknown how quickly Rewind 93 will build a distinct audience identity in the market. Additionally, programming specifics — such as local air talent, syndicated content, or automation — have not been disclosed. How the format will differentiate from other 90s-leaning stations in the region also remains to be seen.
What It Means: OnTheGoMedia is steadily expanding its Iowa footprint. Beyond KDAO-FM, the company operates Classic Hits 98.9 KQCR-FM Parkersburg and Country/Classic Rock 104.9 KLMJ-FM Hampton, along with the Hampton Chronicle newspaper. The Rewind 93 launch signals Dietz is building a multi-format cluster with a clear local-first strategy. If executed well, the move could strengthen the network’s overall position across Central Iowa.
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David Hill serves as a Music Radio Editor, Columnist and Features writer for Barrett Media. A radio lifer with more than 30 years behind the mic, in the control room, and in the program director’s chair, David’s career spans influential stops at brands such as WIYY 98 Rock, WBAL-AM, and 99X. He has worked across multiple formats and ownership groups, including iHeartMedia and Cumulus Media, developing talent, breaking music, and navigating every major industry shift from diary to PPM and terrestrial dominance to streaming disruption. When he’s not writing or analyzing the industry, Dave runs The Tune Farm, a marketing firm built to help artists and brands grow audience the same way great radio always has—by creating connection, not just impressions. He can be reached at David@BarrettMedia.com.