Versant posted mixed second quarter financial results. The company reported lower revenue and earnings during the quarter.
What We Know: Versant generated $1.6 billion in second quarter revenue as distribution and advertising revenue both declined from a year ago. Meanwhile, adjusted EBITDA and net income also fell year-over-year. Even so, the company highlighted continued audience reach across its portfolio, recent long-term distribution renewals in the U.S. and Canada, and several strategic investments completed during or immediately after the quarter. Those moves included acquiring Full Swing, expanding its premium sports rights, growing Fandango’s consumer platform, and advancing direct-to-consumer offerings for CNBC and MS NOW.
What the Numbers Show:
Metric
2026 2nd Quarter
Year-Over-Year Change
Total Revenue
$1.6 billion
▼3.8%
Linear Distribution
$954 million
▼ 6.3%
Advertising
$423 million
▼ 0.6%
Net Income
$211 million
▼ 30.1%
Adjusted EBITDA
$624 million
▼ 8.9%
What They Said: “Versant’s brands once again demonstrated strength, durability and scale, reaching more than 120 million viewers each month during the quarter while reinforcing our leadership across news, sports and entertainment. That performance was reflected in the recent multi-year renewals with two large distribution partners, one in the U.S. and one in Canada. At the same time, we continued executing our strategy by investing in opportunities that will drive the next phase of our growth … Together, we believe these initiatives build on the foundation of our portfolio, deepen consumer engagement, and position Versant for long-term growth.” -Versant CEO Mark Lazarus
What It Means: Although Versant’s financial results softened, management continues to prioritize long-term growth over short-term performance. As traditional television distribution remains under pressure, the company is leaning into sports rights, consumer platforms, and direct-to-consumer products to diversify its business. Those investments could strengthen Versant’s competitive position, especially if they offset continued declines in its legacy television operations.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.
Nexstar Media Group posted record second-quarter financial results. Revenue climbed as political advertising and acquisitions fueled growth.
What We Know: Nexstar Media Group reported record second quarter revenue of $2 billion, driven by its acquisition of TEGNA, robust political advertising, FIFA World Cup programming on its FOX affiliates, and continued digital growth. The company also highlighted momentum for NewsNation, which it said remained the fastest-growing ad-supported cable news network in both primetime and total day viewership. Meanwhile, Nexstar pointed to expanded distribution for The CW through new partnerships with ESPN and Roku as another key growth driver heading into the second half of the year.
What the Numbers Show:
Metric
2026 2nd Quarter
Year-Over-Year Change
Distribution Revenue
$1.1 Billion
▲ 52.3%
Advertising Revenue
$862 Million
▲ 81.5%
Net Revenue
$2 Billion
▲ 62.2%
Net Income
$113 Million
▲ 24.0%
Adjusted EBITDA
$633 Million
▲ 62.0%
What They Said: “In a record second quarter, Nexstar generated all-time high quarterly revenue driven by our acquisition of TEGNA Inc., strong political advertising revenue, incremental advertising revenue from highly rated FIFA World Cup events on our FOX-affiliated stations and continued streaming advertising revenue growth in Nexstar’s legacy local markets. During the quarter, NewsNation maintained its position as the fastest-growing ad-supported cable news network in prime time and total day viewership. At the same time, The CW accelerated its transformative evolution through distribution partnerships with ESPN and Roku, which will expand The CW’s reach to new streaming audiences … We remain confident that the case challenging our acquisition of TEGNA is without merit and we will continue to vigorously defend it.” – Nexstar Media Group Founder, Chairman, and CEO Perry Sook
What It Means: The quarter reinforces Nexstar’s strategy of combining broadcast television, cable news, and streaming distribution to diversify revenue. Furthermore, the TEGNA acquisition continues to reshape the company’s financial profile while political advertising provides a significant near-term lift. If NewsNation and The CW sustain their recent momentum, Nexstar could enter the back half of 2026 with multiple businesses contributing meaningful growth beyond its traditional local television operations.
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Andrew Kautz launched Kautz & Associates in Nashville. The bespoke consulting firm serves a small group of hand-selected private clients.
What We Know Kautz built a three-decade career at the music industry’s operational heart. He worked his way up from college intern to Chief Operating Officer at Emerald Sound Studios. Later, Scott Borchetta brought him on as Big Machine’s first hire in 2005. For the next 20 years, Kautz served as General Manager, Chief Operating Officer, and President of Label Operations. The pair scaled Big Machine into the world’s most successful independent record label. Most recently, he led Strategy & Operations at HYBE Label Service. His new firm advises labels, founders, investors, artists, and their management teams. He offers counsel on operations, publishing, distribution, royalties, catalog, rights, finance, M&A, and business development. Prospective clients can reach him at andrew@kautz.llc.
What’s at Stake The music industry faces unprecedented complexity alongside genuine opportunity. Technology now shapes the business as much as talent does. Industry leaders currently face critical decisions about their strategies and operations. Kautz’s deep operational expertise directly addresses these pressing challenges for executives.
What Remains Unclear The firm hasn’t disclosed its specific client roster publicly yet. Pricing models and engagement structures remain unannounced at launch. It’s unclear how his positioning compares to existing advisory practices in music.
What It Means Veteran executives increasingly build boutique consulting practices in music. This trend reflects how technology reshapes industry structures and demands. As the landscape shifts, specialized advisors help organizations navigate transitions effectively. Kautz’s “depth over volume” positioning represents a broader movement toward high-touch consulting in music.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.
Townsquare Media posted nearly flat second-quarter revenue despite continued broadcast advertising pressure. Digital businesses again fueled the company’s overall performance.
What We Know: Townsquare Media reported second-quarter net revenue of $115.4 million, a slight 0.1% decline from the same period last year. However, digital advertising continued to offset weakness in traditional broadcast operations. Meanwhile, the company generated $47.1 million in digital advertising revenue, marking another quarter of double-digit growth. Broadcast advertising revenue, however, fell as advertisers remained selective with spending. Broadcast advertising continued to face headwinds during the quarter. Even so, the business remained a meaningful contributor to overall cash flow while Townsquare Media continued expanding its digital portfolio.
What the Numbers Show:
Metric
Result
Year-Over-Year Change
Net Revenue
$115.4 million
▼ 0.1%
Net Income
-$41.8 million
▼ -2181%
Adjusted EBITDA
$24.8 million
▼ 6.2%
Digital Advertising Net Revenue
$47.1 million
▲ 11.0%
Broadcast Advertising Net Revenue
$46.5 million
▼ 5.5%
What They Said: “Our Digital businesses represented 57% of Townsquare’s net revenue and 59% of Segment Profit in the first six months of the year. We believe the combination of multiple scalable, high-margin digital growth platforms and a durable Broadcast cash flow business creates a differentiated company with significant long-term opportunities to drive shareholder value through sustained net revenue, Adjusted EBITDA and cash flow growth, net leverage reduction, and future dividend payments.” -Townsquare Media CEO Bill Wilson
What It Means:Townsquare Media‘s latest results reinforce the company’s long-term digital transformation strategy. While broadcast advertising remains under pressure, expanding digital revenue continues to represent a larger share of the business. Consequently, investors will likely watch whether digital growth can further offset traditional media declines in the coming quarters while improving profitability.
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Here we are again. Another round of layoffs from one of the top radio broadcast companies in the country. Didn’t we just go through this exercise literally a month ago with iHeartMedia? Also, didn’t this happen in April with Audacy? Yesterday, it was Cumulus Media’s turn at the wheel. The company is battling bankruptcy while working through a reorganization plan to stay alive in the broadcast radio business. Of course, all while engaged in a lawsuit with Nielsen over its ratings business.
As someone who’s sat in meetings making staffing decisions and has also been on the giving and receiving end of the news, I know these decisions aren’t easy. I don’t envy the people responsible for making the selections or delivering the news. At the end of the day, people are being cut from an industry built on people, passion, and connection. That’s not good for business or the future of radio.
Why?
Because the business of radio continues to be its own worst enemy. Cumulus is the country’s third-largest radio broadcast group with more than 400 stations in 82 markets. For the second time in six years, the company filed for Chapter 11 protection to restructure $600 million in corporate debt.
Everyone Follows, No One Leads
iHeartMedia did the same in 2018, and Audacy followed in 2024. Are they better off today? Some would argue business has rebounded slightly. But the industry isn’t reinforcing the very foundation that makes radio the most unique audio medium available. People.
Radio served as a trusted companion for generations. Today, it finds itself struggling to maintain the audience share it still has. Why? Because there are fewer people available to create the local connections that made radio indispensable.
Radio’s foundation was built on informing, entertaining, connecting, and supporting the communities it serves through its talent. Instead, here we are again. More people are losing their jobs, and radio continues chipping away at the very soul that made the medium special.
Does this seem all too common for the good of the industry?
I’ve worked for Barrett Media since February 2025. That’s 18 months. In that year and a half, iHeartMedia has conducted layoffs twice (October 2025 and June 2026). They’re not alone. Audacy had rounds of cuts in March 2025, August 2025, and April 2026. Cumulus now adds its latest roster reductions this week to those in November 2024 and late spring 2025.
All the names and stations affected. Is that a winning formula?
A Flawed Formula
Former KXnO program director Sean Roberts talked earlier this week about how his radio brand was gutted by the recent iHeartMedia layoffs last month. By no means is Des Moines, Iowa, a major market. But KXnO was still a vital piece of the daily ecosystem connecting sports fans to their local teams.
“For a sports format to work in Des Moines, you need local voices talking about the local teams,” said Roberts. “I don’t think you’ll get that support nationally because people aren’t hearing what they want to listen to.”
After 25 years of providing the people of Des Moines with live and local coverage, they now get national syndication. Turn on the syndicated feed and let the system run itself.
Is that a winning formula?
Earlier this week, we saw the complete gutting of legendary classic rock station KCAL in the Riverside/San Bernardino area. Talent with up to four decades of experience and deep connections to the local market disappeared without warning. Instead of personalities, listeners get music. All the time. Every day. A jukebox on repeat with zero local connection.
Is that a winning formula?
What executives too often forget is that the people matter most. It’s a forgotten metric in the abyss of numbers used to measure success. By cutting their own people, companies are losing the battle for their own future. You can’t expect talent and staff that remain to work harder, generate more revenue, and remain fully invested when there are so few examples that loyalty is rewarded.
Working at a radio station today has become a “look over your own shoulder” business. There are more fires to put out than sparks to ignite. If companies like Cumulus, Audacy, and iHeartMedia continue neglecting to invest in people, they have to ask themselves: Why should people continue investing their time in them?
Try Something Different
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve written about this, but it still rings true.
It’s long past time for major radio broadcasters to try something different and get back to investing in people. Technology will continue to evolve. Cars will become even more connected, and consumers will gain easier access to every audio option imaginable. Radio needs to get back to earning every listener instead of assuming they’ll stay at the party.
Radio executives spend countless hours asking how to win back listeners. The answer isn’t hidden in another spreadsheet, another restructuring plan, or another round of layoffs. It’s the same answer it’s always been: give audiences compelling local personalities, meaningful community connections, and reasons to choose your station over every other audio option available to them.
Every layoff may improve the balance sheet for a quarter, but it also chips away at the product listeners fell in love with. You want to make a guaranteed human campaign count? Invest in more humans than cut costs for new technology or another podcast to purchase for your platform.
At some point, the industry has to stop asking why audiences are leaving and start asking what it has done to give them a reason to stay.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.
SiriusXM Mad Dog Sports Radio host Adam Schein is addicted. For more than 25 years, he’s been fueled by a passion for what he calls the greatest form of media around. Sports radio was the destination Schein knew would be his calling from a very young age. Now, 22 years after leaving WFAN for Sirius Satellite Radio, that addiction has only grown. More passion has provided more fuel for a career built on informed opinion and entertainment that continues to reach new heights.
“I still get the rush every single day for preparation, execution, and collaboration. There’s nothing like rolling up your sleeves and embracing the process and the fun of Schein on Sports,” said Schein. “The most important minute on my show is when you are listening. Simple as that.”
Schein is a Sirius original, beginning his career with the satellite radio platform in August 2004, just two years after it became commercially available. He was the first talk show host heard on SiriusXM NFL Radio. Schein spent years hosting programs alongside gridiron legends such as John Riggins, Rich Gannon, and John Madden.
In 2013, Schein moved to the all-sports Mad Dog Sports Radio channel, expanding his scope and commentary beyond the NFL. He considers Mad Dog Sports Radio the best sports radio station in the country. He’s surrounded by some of the industry’s biggest names, from Stephen A. Smith to Chris “Mad Dog” Russo.
“When I left WFAN, people thought I was crazy,” notes Schein, who joined Sirius before its merger with XM Radio in July 2008. “Now, we’re a behemoth. I’m not remotely surprised by the growth of SiriusXM. Every year there’s an example of how we get that much better.”
Growth Of Schein On Sports
Today, Schein is a cornerstone of consistency on the Mad Dog Sports Radio lineup. His nationally focused show tackles the biggest stories of the day, features a guest list that rivals few, and has built a passionately loyal audience that continues to grow each year. Schein has never taken the opportunity for granted, nor has he become comfortable enough to ease off the gas.
For Schein, the culture of the channel drives every host and every show to a higher level.
“The ultimate thing in radio, there’s a feeling of the next show is going to be better than the next. Whether it’s [Mike] Babchik, Katie Nolan, Mad Dog [Chris Russo], or Stephen A. Smith. There’s great camaraderie between shows,” said Schein. “When you have that kind of togetherness on a channel, it goes a long way in terms of what hits your ears and the chemistry between the hosts. Right now, it’s at a fever pitch and an unprecedented level.”
The results speak for themselves, and recognition often follows. Earlier this year, four Mad Dog Sports Radio programs ranked among the top 10 in Barrett Media’s annual national sports radio rankings. Schein on Sports finished sixth overall, its highest placement to date.
“It means the world. It also speaks to the respect level that people in the industry have for what we do on our channel,” said Schein. “Lineups can change, but we’re in such an unbelievable place right now with our lineup. For all of us collectively and individually, we’re in a groove right now and hotter than ever. On a day-to-day basis, there is a ‘first’ from the hosts and the audience that every show is going to be a rock and roll performance you can’t miss.”
Expanding Beyond Sports Radio
Success often creates additional opportunities. Schein’s success with Schein on Sports has been no exception. Last year, he began handling in-game updates for the NFL on CBS. Then, in March, he launched another daily program, Schein Time, a streaming sports talk show for the New York Post and California Post Sports.
“Everything always revolves around the radio show. That’s the only way it works for me. I’ve always been loyal to SiriusXM, and they’ve been incredible to me,” said Schein. “I’m lucky with CBS and the Post, they absolutely understand the radio show is the daily priority.”
For years, Schein has maintained a disciplined approach to preparing Schein on Sports. However, Schein Time requires a different strategy. Rather than planning for a structured three-hour national radio show, the streaming format allows greater flexibility. The target is about 45 minutes, but the show can run longer or shorter depending on the conversation. While many of the topics overlap, the audience and presentation differ.
“It’s totally different in terms of the mediums. One is a national radio program, the other is YouTube. It’s so different in the time spent on topics and the method to the madness,” notes Schein, who launched the show’s dedicated YouTube channel last week. “It’s more about what’s going to be a break out. What will hit on social. Different things work differently on Schein Time.”
The feedback during Schein Time’s first few months has been overwhelmingly positive. Schein said the analytics the Post hoped to achieve have met and exceeded expectations. While he doesn’t obsess over every metric, Schein pays close attention to what resonates with digital audiences and why, especially across different platforms.
“I’m a big believer in the beginning of the show taking chances. Let’s see what hits, what doesn’t in the court of public opinion and learn from it,” said Schein. “I pay a lot of attention to the Instagram numbers in particular, and always take a look at that more than anything else. I find that the data Instagram provides gives great insight for our team on what is working for us.”
With the NFL season just over a month away, Schein said launching the show’s YouTube channel before kickoff was critical, especially as every platform battles for attention during what could be the biggest season yet for sports content consumption.
More The Merrier
The sports media industry is highly competitive. As brands across the country prepare for the fall season, many are searching for new ways to reach consumers. Next month, SiriusXM will add 42 Audacy-owned local radio stations to its platform, including 23 sports radio brands with established audiences across the country.
Rather than viewing those additions as competition, Schein sees the opportunity differently.
“I learned a long time ago at SiriusXM, the more the merrier. You want people to subscribe and be a part of the SiriusXM family,” says Schein. “NBA Radio is great for us. College Sports Radio is great for us. I don’t think of Audacy’s brand being added as competition… People get ancy, and those listening to those local brands may discover us.”
Schein said the additional stations don’t create extra pressure because those expectations have been part of the culture since day one.
“It’s my job to make sure you’re also simultaneously hooked when you come to us,” says Schein. “That news to me was just awesome. It takes the bigness of SiriusXM to a level that’s just off the charts. I was pumping my fists when I saw the news.”
One familiar brand making its SiriusXM debut in September is Schein’s former home, New York City’s WFAN, where he reportedly was rumored to be returning following Mike Francesa’s retirement.
Years later, Schein insists the thought of leaving SiriusXM for a return to WFAN has never entered his mind.
“In all sincerity, my goal is to be at Mad Dog Sports Radio and SiriusXM for my entire career. That’s not spin in any way. I love what I do,” said Schein. “I’m smart enough to not close doors elsewhere, but I haven’t thought about it. Not once.”
In an industry where personalities constantly chase the next platform, Adam Schein has built his career by remaining loyal to the one that first hooked him. Television, streaming, social media, and YouTube have expanded his reach, but they haven’t changed his identity.
More than two decades after discovering his calling—and 22 years after betting on SiriusXM—Schein is still chasing the same feeling. The microphone comes on, the adrenaline kicks in, and the addiction to sports radio is as strong as ever.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.
The Country Radio Hall of Fame ceremony is always a powerful reminder of why our format is completely unmatched in broadcasting and often the envy of other formats. Notably, it is not just an industry dinner. Instead, it is an intergenerational family reunion packed with genuine laughter, emotional acceptance speeches, and surprise video cameos on screen. Major country artists thank the programmers who built their careers during these touching moments.
Before a single award was handed out, the room paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Bill Cody, a 2008 inductee. His legendary presence at WSM set the standard for our business. Finding a new host would be no small task, but my former West Coast colleague Heather Froglear did a masterful job as MC. She brought warmth, dignity, and perfect energy to the evening — all in a stunning pink dress!
Honoring a Legend: Lon Helton
The night kicked off by recognizing Lon Helton with the 2026 CRB President’s Award. Lon has spent over four decades making country radio smarter, stronger, and more honest. Through Country Aircheck and Country Countdown USA, his dedication has been unmatched. He advocates for our format, asks the tough questions, and welcomes the next generation of broadcasters.
Roots at KSON and Beyond
For me personally, celebrating this class hit close to home. Specifically, it started with Rick Jackson. Rick was the General Manager at KSON who hired me as Program Director. Over those years, Rick and his wife Gina became dear family friends. I learned a massive amount from Rick, and I place him squarely at the top of the heap — the best GM I have ever worked with. From launching KYGO to building a syndicated classic country powerhouse reaching over 160 stations, Rick represents the absolute best of station leadership. Furthermore, Rick was always one of my biggest cheerleaders, so there was no way I’d miss celebrating his induction.
The KSON connections ran deep all night. John Marks, who programmed KSON before heading to SiriusXM and later Spotify, was rightfully inducted. His remarkable 51 year career spanned terrestrial, satellite, and streaming platforms. Taking over at KSON after John left meant filling big shoes, but his legacy of innovation set a high bar.
Additionally, Chris Carr is someone I got to know well during my time with KSON. Chris is a killer talent and a six-time CMA winner. Equally important, he is a good human whose work raising millions for St. Jude and local military families embodies what local radio is all about.
Storytellers, Humor, and Leaders
What made the acceptance speeches stand out this year was the incredible balance of humor and raw storytelling. Phil Hunt, who worked closely with one of my most treasured mentors, Rusty Walker, delivered a masterclass. His unique storytelling ability should literally be bottled for our industry. Storytelling remains our ultimate weapon on the air.
Michael J had the room in stitches sharing career mishaps. Subsequently, he reminded everyone that radio’s true impact comes from caring, not perfection. His work raising over $30 million for St. Jude speaks volumes. Bruce Logan was honored for over three decades of risk-taking programming leadership. Moreover, he dedicated a quarter century to the CRS agenda committee across multiple major markets.
Rounding out this legendary class is Marci Brown from Audacy. Marci and I worked together as Regional Vice Presidents at Audacy. Seeing her become the youngest inductee in Hall of Fame history was proof of her passion and accomplishments. She rose to the occasion with relentless work ethic and passion. Demonstrably, community-first leadership always yields long-term success. Marci also rose to a challenge set by her peers and friends at her table — I learned about it after the ceremony. I couldn’t contain my laughter. She’ll need to be the one to share it with you.
The Future Remains Bright
Every single one of these eight honorees proves that country radio is alive and well. Furthermore, it is deeply human. When you look at the sheer level of talent, heart, humor, and mentorship in this class, optimism about our medium’s future is impossible to resist. Congratulations to the class of 2026. You make our industry proud.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.
I was reminded the other day of the passing of Kidd Kraddick. It was a Barrett Media post on the day we lost Kidd 13 years ago. I only knew him for a short time, but felt I knew him well. With Morning Show Boot Camp happening this week, where Kidd is annually honored with the Kidd Kraddick award, this week’s column celebrates the man I had the pleasure of knowing.
The Consulting Years
Between my time at Clear Channel (now iHeartMedia) and CBS back in 2009, I had a brief foray into consulting. I worked with several Clear Channel stations I had been previously involved with, along with Delilah. Greater Media was a client, as was Kidd Kraddick. The first time we spoke, I told him I was in awe of his show and believed there was nothing I could do for him. He replied that he heard I understood the new PPM methodology and wanted my help to grow his ratings even higher. Who would say no to Kidd?
I went back through my email folder and uncovered one of my first notes to Kidd, sent at 1:20 p.m.: “I’m so impressed with that entertainment feature in the 6 a.m. hour… that is the best scoring show biz segment I have ever seen in PPM.” Kidd’s reply at 2:08 p.m.: “I just ran around my building and quoted that. And yes, the whole morning show is still here at 2 p.m. We’re sick.” That was the moment I learned there was significant hard work behind all that talent. Moreover, I realized I had met my match.
Learning from Excellence
Every Sunday, when Media Monitors released their raw data, I would listen to each day’s shows. The data I gave Kidd hopefully helped shape the content on the show, as PPM was new and I learned from it as well. Specifically, his interview with Taylor Swift proved revelatory. Long before the Eras tour, I saw his conversation with Tay take his meters to heights I had never witnessed before. So much for people dismissing interviews in PPM. The right conversations with the biggest artists could drive ratings. Ultimately, what I learned from this relationship 17 years ago still applies today.
When I joined CBS, I had to say goodbye to Kidd — until the summer of 2011. At that point, I took on additional duties as Program Director of KVIL in Dallas, directly across the street from Kidd. That’s when our relationship changed. We shifted from my being his client to becoming his friend. He would pick me up in his hot car a block away from KVIL so nobody could see. We would have a long lunch — a very long lunch. It was always about radio, and he did most of the talking.
A Man Obsessed with Relevance
He shared how he was obsessed with keeping the show relevant as he aged. Notably, that was the key word I remember him using more than any other — relevant. Not only with the cast but with the content they did on the show. He kept the evolution of the cast so relevant that when he passed away, the ratings of the show actually grew. His number two, Kellie Rasberry, led the team and continues to perform exceptionally today.
He was as passionate about his charity as his show — and how much it meant to him. Kidd’s Kids should be the blueprint for every long-running successful show. It would take me years to realize how the charity efforts of a show deepen audience relationships. Additionally, these efforts help drive ratings. But Kidd was the one who planted that seed. I felt he wanted me to try putting his show on at WNEW in New York since that would have been a huge boost to his syndication efforts. Yet, he never asked for the order. A great talent rarely does — there is shyness when it comes to that.
A Legacy of Hard Work
Yes, Kidd was talented. However, he was also one of the hardest working, most obsessed with relevance and caring people I have ever met. To the show that gets the Kidd Kraddick award at this year’s Morning Show Boot Camp, you have some enormous shoes to fill.
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When you’re running a radio station in a market as competitive and diverse as New York City, the pressure to stand out is immense. The Hot AC format — blending contemporary hits with established favorites — faces particular challenges in an era of infinite streaming options and music discovery tools. Yet terrestrial radio remains a powerful medium for reaching commuters, office workers, and listeners who value personality-driven programming. Ultimately, for Rob Miller, Program Director at NEW 102.7, the answer isn’t complicated — it’s about authenticity, community, and understanding your audience.
“In a world where people can get their music anywhere, what’s the thing about the brand that you have that’s going to make a difference in their lives?” Miller explains. “For us, it’s about giving back. It’s about talent that listeners can relate to because they live here. Our personalities understand when to step up and utilize the platform for the greater good.”
What separates a successful Hot AC station from the rest? “You’ve got stability, young stars, new stars — a little bit of everything,” Miller notes. “That’s a good recipe for success.”
Miller agrees, but with a caveat about execution. “It’s really about how all the members of the team work solo and how they work together as a unit. Notably, we’re diverse in terms of backgrounds and ages. Still, what’s consistent is that they all understand our audience and can connect with listeners on a personal level. Ultimately, we win when we’re leaning in on local and relatable things.”
The Talent Lineup: A Formula for Local Connection
Karen Carson, proud Jersey girl, anchors NEW 102.7’s top rated morning show, rooted in fun and positivity. It’s the only female-led morning drive show in New York City. After more than 3 decades on air, she’s joined by Anthony Malerba, who started as an intern. He’s evolved into an integral part of the show. Now 30 and a new father, Anthony brings authentic New York energy to the mic — literally. A Brooklyn native and wrestling enthusiast, his zero-filter presence resonates with the core audience.
The combination of Carson’s experience and Malerba’s youthful perspective creates a natural balance. Long Island’s own John Mingione completes the trio. Importantly, he brings viral creativity, sharp comedy and real-life chaos to the show. As an award-winning filmmaker, musician and producer, his ability to capture shareable moments and engage listeners beyond traditional radio has become invaluable for the station’s digital footprint.
Middays and Afternoons: Versatility and Reach
Emily West brings a grounded, feel-good energy to middays to keep workdays moving. As a suburban Mom of two, with one heading to college, she’s totally living the life of so many NEW 102.7 listeners. Additionally, she contributes as an on-camera traffic reporter for NBC 4. This extends her brand reach across platforms and builds credibility as a local media personality. In afternoons, Mike Adam’s vibe is deeply immersed in music and entertainment culture. He’s built a career at the intersection of radio, television, celebrity interviews and social media. His work has appeared across major platforms like MTV, VH1, Music Choice and Inside Edition and his artist interviews drive significant engagement across Audacy’s social platforms, creating value beyond the traditional radio broadcast.
The New Guard: Bru and the Influencer Crossover
“We were talking earlier about how there are influencers with followings much bigger than many radio personalities,” Miller noted. “Bru is the perfect example. He built a solid fandom on TikTok and now with more than 130 million combined social followers, Bru’s become one of the most recognizable digital-first voices in music and entertainment culture. The biggest names in pop music want to sit and chat with Bru…Taylor Swift, BTS, Harry Styles and Olivia Rodrigo were among his guests this past year.”
Added to the lineup in April, Bru produces a custom, interactive show for New York every weeknight. Always engaging with callers about what’s happening in pop culture and the big events in the greatest city in the world! Importantly, this strategy capitalizes on his digital presence while introducing his social media audience to terrestrial radio. Meanwhile, it maintains local relevance for the station’s core audience and bridges the gap between traditional and digital media consumption.
The Responsibility of Broadcasting
Miller grew reflective when discussing the role radio plays in increasingly disconnected times. The medium remains uniquely powerful for communities, particularly in sprawling metro areas where audiences are dispersed across multiple boroughs and surrounding regions. “In a world that’s become more disconnected, it’s an opportunity for local radio to lean in on connecting people again.”
The responsibility, he argues, extends beyond entertainment. “Our duty is to create an uplifting positive atmosphere where people tune in to get the music they love, the news they need to know about their area, and everything pop culture. Furthermore, we make sure our personalities represent the audience we seek and understand what matters to them.”
For listeners in a sprawling market like New York, where commutes can stretch for hours and neighborhoods often feel isolated from one another, the radio station becomes something more. It becomes a community touchstone beyond mere background music. The station serves as a unifying force during rush hour drives, morning routines, and afternoon workdays.
“Listeners discover artists they’ll love for years to come,” Miller said. “They hear about great new spots for dinner or cool things happening this weekend that they can do with their families. In a city like New York, that responsibility to inform and connect is more important than ever.”
The Bottom Line
NEW 102.7’s success isn’t an accident. Rather, it’s the result of thoughtful talent development, genuine community investment, and an unwavering commitment to local relevance. In a media landscape increasingly fractured by streaming, social platforms, and infinite choice, that formula feels increasingly valuable. The station has built something that can’t be replicated through algorithms or corporate radio playbooks — genuine local connection.
As Miller put it simply: “We win when we’re leaning in on local and relatable things.”
In New York — a city of eight million stories — that’s not just smart radio strategy. It’s essential. For a market where listeners are searching for authentic voices and real connection, NEW 102.7 has found its formula.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.
For the average person, beach days and sweltering temperatures signal the start of August. But for football fans, August means only one thing: the start of NFL training camps. And if those football fans watch TV, August also means the return of Inside Training Camp on NFL Network.
I caught this past Monday’s live edition of the program, hosted in studio by Rhett Lewis. He was joined by a host of NFL Network and ESPN reporters in the field at various team training sites.
Daniel Jeremiah opened the show live from the Dallas Cowboys’ camp in Oxnard, CA. Once again, the NFL’s most compelling team gave Jeremiah plenty to discuss. As he spoke about new arrivals on the roster, viewers got a live look at the Cowboys running through offensive and defensive drills.
This is one of the best parts of Inside Training Camp. The show gets fans fired up for the upcoming NFL season with visuals of training camp. Sunshine, rabid fans, tackling dummies and JUGS machines. Coaches bellowing instructions and blowing whistles. Equipment managers tweaking helmets and pads.
I love it all.
Action From Around The Country
NFL Network’s Stacey Dales was up next, live from Packers training camp in Green Bay, interviewing Packers safety Xavier McKinney. Despite the loss of the talented Tom Pelissero in the recent layoffs, NFL Network still has a bevy of outstanding reporters. Dales is certainly one of them. She has an easygoing, personable interviewing style. Dales made McKinney feel comfortable as they talked about his development as a player and the Packers’ outlook for the upcoming season.
An interesting trio was next on this edition of Inside Training Camp. NFL Network’s Maurice Jones-Drew joined ESPN’s Alex Smith and 49ers President of Football Operations and General Manager John Lynch live from the team’s training camp in Santa Clara, California. Once again, San Francisco is battling injuries with a banged-up receiving corps. Ever the optimist, Lynch said that despite the injuries, he likes where the roster stands.
Back in Oxnard, Jeremiah interviewed an enthusiastic Cowboys Head Coach Brian Schottenheimer. It was the first day of padded practice, and Schottenheimer revealed that the coaching staff eases players into workouts rather than throwing too much at them immediately.
The NFL Network and ESPN now essentially operating under the Disney umbrella. Moreover, the crossover of talent from both networks is in full force. Jeremiah welcomed ESPN’s Mina Kimes for a segment from the Chargers’ training camp in El Segundo, California. El Segundo is Spanish for “The Second,” which is fitting because the Chargers finished second in the AFC West last season. The team hopes to make the jump to division champion in 2026.
This segment put Kimes in a completely different role. Normally an analyst on NFL Live and other ESPN productions, she seemed a bit uneasy at first in the unfamiliar position of interviewer. It was a different vibe for her as she asked Khalil Mack what fans can expect from the Chargers’ defense this season.
Interviews With The Stars
NFL Network reporter Mike Garafolo and analyst Brian Baldinger reported live from the Patriots’ training camp in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The pair conducted a lively interview with one of the newest threats in New England’s receiver room, A.J. Brown. The rejuvenated Brown was clearly pleased to be in New England.
“It’s been so much fun. Each and every day, we come to work with our hard hats on. Each and every day, you know, it’s a blessing,” said Brown.
Baldinger asked a key question about Brown’s relationship with Patriots Head Coach Mike Vrabel, who coached him in Tennessee. Brown predicted that his game is going to reach another level because of the support system Vrabel provides.
As always, the technical staff on Inside Training Camp supplied terrific, relevant graphics and statistics while adding excellent visual energy to the broadcast. Jones-Drew was front and center in a feature on the Los Angeles Rams’ Super Bowl expectations. Since he serves as the Rams’ radio color analyst during the season, he offers unique insight into the team.
Rams Head Coach Sean McVay — who, when he gets on a rant, is more intensely motivating than Tony Robbins, David Goggins, and Mel Robbins combined. He reflected on last year’s loss to the Seahawks in the NFC Championship Game. Then looked ahead to the upcoming season. It was a strong feature, and Jones-Drew did a nice job as the reporter.
One of the more interesting interviews on this edition of Inside Training Camp featured Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby. The All-Pro was traded to the Ravens during the offseason, but the deal was nixed because Crosby failed Baltimore’s team physical. In true fashion, Crosby showed up with nearly no fashion. He went completely bare-chested for the interview.
A definite future broadcasting star, Crosby remains one of the most candid, articulate, and engaging players in the NFL.
NFL Network’s Omar Ruiz and David Carr conducted the interview with Crosby from Raiders camp in Henderson, NV. To his credit, Carr jumped right in by asking Crosby about the ill-fated Ravens deal and his mindset now that he was back with Las Vegas. Crosby did not back down from that or any other question. He offered thoughtful, insightful answers throughout.
Inside Training Camp certainly gets around. Coming back from a break, viewers saw Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels and wide receiver Terry McLaurin looking sharp in drills as both players continued returning from injuries. ESPN NFL Insider Jeremy Fowler then interviewed McLaurin from Commanders camp in Ashburn, VA. Like Kimes, Fowler is not known as an interviewer, but he seemed relaxed and comfortable in the role.
Celebrating Football’s Arrival
Two hours into this three-hour edition of Inside Training Camp, Mike Yam and Mike Robinson took over studio duties. Yam is one of the best hosts on NFL Network, while Robinson can only be described as personality-plus, openly sharing his joy and passion for football with viewers. Yam then tossed to Insider Ian Rapoport, who was joined by veteran NFL Network personality Steve Wyche at Ravens camp in Owings Mills, MD.
I compare Wyche to ESPN’s Jay Harris. Both are consummate professionals who have been around for years, know exactly how to do their jobs, and consistently bring their A-game.
Fast-rising ESPN reporter Ben Solak was at Colts camp in Westfield, IN, discussing the return of Indianapolis quarterback Daniel Jones from a torn Achilles suffered in 2025. I like Solak a lot. He blends reporting and analysis exceptionally well and is going to be a staple at ESPN — or wherever else he chooses to be — for years to come.
Similarly, Inside Training Camp has become a summer staple on NFL Network. More importantly, it serves as a joyous reminder that the weekly drama that is NFL football has finally returned.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.
