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.

Is AM/FM Radio Still Worth It For Listeners Despite the Commercial Conundrum?

It’s a wonderful research question without a conclusive answer.

Nielsen Channels Lynyrd Skynyrd With ‘Gimme 3 Years, Gimme 3 Years, Mister’

Until Nielsen discovers that “it ain’t no fun staring straight down a forty-four” (figuratively, not literally), I expect we’ll be seeing Nielsen back at The Jug again, looking for more ways to cut costs.

Can Nielsen Fix Its Data Processing Problems?

This is troubling, and in my view, Nielsen owes the industry an explanation.

Can Broadcast Media Compete With YouTube While Wearing the FCC Muzzle?

There will always be a market for “clean” entertainment, but a “no-holds-barred” sports talk show on broadcast radio would probably have a following.

How the Nielsen Audio Analyzer Can Help Unlock Market-Level Insights

The Audio Analyzer has value for diary markets as well.

Breaking

Barrett Media’s Top 20 Advertising Executives of 2026

"Voters were asked to answer up to six questions and list which groups and individuals were most important to their business in exact order."

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.