Dr. Ed Cohen

169 POSTS
One of the radio industry’s most respected researchers, Dr. Ed Cohen writes a weekly business column, heavily focused on ratings research for Barrett Media. His career experiences include serving as VP of Ratings and Research at Cumulus Media, occupying the role of VP of Measurement Innovation at Nielsen Audio, and its predecessor Arbitron. While with Arbitron, Cohen spent five years as the company's President of Research Policy and Communication, and eight years as VP of Domestic Radio Research. Dr. Ed has also held the title of Vice President of Research for iHeartMedia/Clear Channel, and held research positions for the National Association of Broadcasters and Birch/Scarborough Research. He is adjunct faculty in the Department of Broadcast Communications at Western Kentucky University and welcomes your thoughts. Reach him by email at doctoredresearch@gmail.com.

Radio and the Battle for Attention in the Age of Brainrot

We 2025 humans don’t focus well, and while it’s easy to blame social media or other options on our smartphones — and that may be true — it is the reality.

Should Nielsen Ratings Turn Attention to More Futuristic Measurement Data?

I’m sure others can come up with interesting ideas, but the real question is: “What do we want the radio/audio audience measurement system to look like in 2030? In 2035?”

Why Both Radio and Nielsen Need to Prioritize Cume Instead of AQH

Is this a perfect solution? Of course not.

Radio Ratings Metrics At Nielsen Are Outdated — Here’s What Needs to Change

Any update to the system must take advantage of all data available today and some data that may not exist yet.

Why It’s Time for Nielsen and the Radio Industry to Reimagine Ratings

When your career prospects are contingent on whether someone wears a watch on a given day or a near-illiterate draws a line in a paper diary, that’s an unusual way to make a living.

Breaking

Radio Hall of Fame Class of 2026 Delivers Laughs, Tears and Gratitude in Chicago

“Radio changes lives when people show up, trust their teammates and serve the audience.”

Is Disney+ the First Step Toward a Super Bowl Paywall

"The Super Bowl is still free. Enjoy it while you can. Someday, the most expensive part of your Super Bowl party might not be the beer, the wings or the ridiculous price of guacamole."

Why College GameDay Is a Blueprint for News/Talk Radio Success

It’s about belonging. Viewers feel like they’re part of something bigger than themselves. The best News/Talk stations create that same feeling. They become a gathering place for listeners who share common interests, concerns, passions and experiences.

How KUTX Turned Connection Into Ratings Success in Austin

“People will say, ‘I don't like that one song you're playing,’ but they don't leave because they want to know what's coming up next.”