Ron Harrell

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Ron Harrell is a columnist for Barrett Media. He founded Harrell Media Group, specializing in radio and audio brand consultation, fractional management, and talent coaching. He has worked in every role on the Programming and Branding side during his career, becoming management and executive-focused in the post-Telecom Act era. Ron has held leadership roles for media groups such as ABC/Citadel, CBS Radio, Chancellor Media, Cumulus Media, Hope Media Group, Hubbard Broadcasting, and WAY Media. 

Interested parties are invited to learn more about his company Harrell Media Group and reach out by email at Ron@HarrellMediaGroup.com.

Three Minutes And Emotional Impact = Better Ratings

Reducing the quarter-hour impact from five to three minutes changes the math. But it doesn’t change the emotional impact of what we’re playing and saying in the moment.

What Happens When Your Radio Station Gets COVID-19?

Radio station brands get sick. Sometimes, the healthiest brands struggle through the illness because those stations are unfamiliar with the experience.

Radio Just Saying ‘Local’ Doesn’t Make It So

“Why do we think local makes our brand more appealing to the listener?”

A Branding Lesson From Pretzels, Napkins, And Coffee Mugs

Pretzels, napkins, coffee mugs. What’s the big deal? The attempt to make the mundane more imaginative or the routine a bit unusual is the deal.

Yacht Rock’s Final Season Of Emotional Significance

If you follow the genre of music identified by soft rock artists like Michael McDonald, Hall & Oates, Steely Dan, Ambrosia, Pablo Cruise, and Kenny Loggins, you know Yacht Rock has become more than a weekend feature for radio station critics.

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Dianna Russini Reportedly Hiring Crisis Publicist Ahead Of Potential Sports Media Return

"Russini resigned from The Athletic in April amid controversy over her relationship with Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel."

Katie Zacharia, Former Fox News and Newsmax Commentator, Named White House Press Secretary

Zacharia’s appointment continues Trump’s practice of choosing communicators with experience in conservative media and administration messaging.

Gracie Awards Open Nominations for 2027 Ceremony

"We look forward to honoring the content that moved audiences in 2026 and continuing the Gracies’ long-standing investment in the people who will shape what comes next.”