The Jacobs Media Blog

There’s a reason why there have been exponentially more radio station startup failures than successes. Two-year formats or stations that are so irrelevant they are tossed in to sweeten up a cluster pitch go against the potential that consolidation offered when it became radio’s answer to competitive pressures.

The Google initiative is replacing outdated phone booths with WiFi kiosks so that people will be able to stay connected whenever they like and wherever they are. While radio has improved in most areas, there are some where they still need to make strides: the user experience, awareness, and content.

For radio to stay in the game, they need to focus a little more attention on Generation Z. They are more tech savvy and connected than other generations.

Warren Buffett once said, “Don’t ask the barber whether you need a haircut.” Outside, unbiased consulting has never been more important to executives.

Even though Facebook has updated its “Like” button to show more emotional icons, it still does not replace the connection people have with radio. Radio can provide a more personal experience and is not limited to a few emoticons.

As media organizations assess their missions, it’s never been more important for radio to redefine its mission in a rapidly changing environment.

Taxi companies are being disrupted by competitive services like Lyft and Uber. They will need to make changes or risk the chance of becoming extinct.

Radio has to keep abreast of its competition and continue making strides in the business. Here are several points that radio should consider in order to survive in this evolving environment.

More and more people are streaming audio and video content while on the road, whether it is in the automobile or taking public transportation.

Broadcast radio’s ability to reflect the local zeitgeist gives it an edge. WCSX’s campaign to name a street after Eagle Glenn Frey is a great example.

Public radio star Ira Glass is changing the way programs sound, as well as legitimizing the podcasting movement.

Sir Paul McCartney is dabbling in virtual reality and recording signature sounds for Skype, proving that digital natives aren’t just Millennials.

Autonomous cars are coming faster than we thought, with implications for radio and other in-dash media providers.

There are many explanations for why the Classic Rock radio format has endured. Here’s our theory.

Company culture cards are a way for even the biggest companies to communicate their values and missions to all their employees.

As radio grapples with serious questions about its content and how to access it, the mobile revolution continues to provide a pathway to success.