Jim Ryan

88 POSTS
Jim Ryan is a Music Radio columnist for Barrett Media. In addition, he runs Jim Ryan Media LLC, a consulting company which assists major market radio brands and top talent including national radio personality Delilah. Prior to relaunching his consultancy in 2025, Jim spent 15 years with Audacy/CBS Radio, serving as SVP of Programming. Among his responsibilities included programming WNEW-FM and WCBS-FM.  His career includes additional programming stops in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Houston. Jim was voted the #2 PD of 2024 in Barrett Media's Top 20 series in the AC category. He can be reached by email at Jim@JimRyanMedia.com.

Why Countdowns & Specialty Content Still Matter in Hot AC Radio

In a world of on-demand streaming and personalized playlists, it may seem counterintuitive that something as traditional as a countdown still holds water, but it does.

How the Hot AC Radio Format Can Be Promotionally Relevant On a Limited Budget

Being promotionally relevant doesn't always require deep pockets—just creativity, strategy, and a clear understanding of the audience.

Hits On The Horizon: Kelsea Ballerini, Muse And Leon Thomas

Kelsea Ballerini / “Baggage” is worthy of a revisit with nearly 60 million streams if you are not already spinning.

Why Streaming Hits Don’t Always Equal Hot AC Radio Success

"Use the data, but don’t let it use you."

Hits On The Horizon: Jonas Brothers, Kane Brown and Lil Tecca

Top 40/Hot AC, let’s start with the just-released today Jonas Brothers / “No Time To Talk.” It is fun, catchy and for many very recognizable with a Bee Gees / “Stayin Alive” vibe.

Breaking

Sevendust’s Lajon Witherspoon on 30 Years of Rock’s Most Underrated Band

"I think we were just able to paint this portrait of that in time, in real time."

The Digital Cul-de-Sac: How Algorithms Are Limiting Music Discovery

"The algorithm is no longer just helping listeners find music. In many cases, it is deciding what discovery even means."

What Does the Future of OutKick Look Like Without Clay Travis

"In today's media landscape, audiences don't simply follow websites. They follow people. They invest in personalities, perspectives, and voices they trust."

How Daniel Cormier Is Approaching Calling UFC Freedom 250 as a Landmark Moment for the Sport of MMA

"As a guy that's represented the country in wrestling and the things that I've done, I've always wanted to go to the White House. Now, I have an opportunity to do it. Plus, to do it with fighting and representing the UFC. That's crazy to me."