There’s a palpable “double-buzz” permeating the auto business. Autonomous and electrification are the technologies poised to change the way we get from point A to point B. How far into the future will it be before these futuristic cars become ubiquitous? We’ve come across new information that suggests it may take longer than most people think. Here’s what they could mean to radio broadcasters.

How many times have you heard that we’re living in the middle of an audio renaissance – this week? While consumers are enjoying audio from myriad sources – radio, streaming, the podcasts, etc. – the ways in which they engage with and pay attention to audio differs greatly. In today’s blog post, brand new eye-opening research that will help you – especially programmers and sellers – into perspective. This one’s big.

Yesterday, Mike McVay wrote an important column about the importance of star talent to radio in this competitive media environment. Today’s blog post takes over where Mike’s story left off, addressing the challenges of retaining rock star personalities.

Some radio stations feel like crime scenes. And wouldn’t you know it, True Crime has become a popular podcast genre. And now, a former DJ has combined the best of both worlds – a whodunit suspense novel set in – where else? – a radio station. No spoiler alerts here, but you have to read today’s post to learn how this classic radio mystery turns out.

In the 4+ decades I’ve spent in the radio business, the hue and cry from broadcasters has been the need for better ratings. Now on the TV side, there’s a new measurement product that promises to change the way the medium is bought and sold. Could it happen in radio?

Forward-thinking marketers are now hatching marketing strategies aimed at Gen Z – and even Gen Alpha, their younger siblings. Legacy brands are crafting clever ways to make inroads to these young future consumers, including a radio company that is way ahead of the game.

In the U.S., post-pandemic activity is moving quickly, especially the trend for consumers to get out of the house – and into their cars. New research from two credible sources point “windshield media” as the big winners as habits shift. That means outdoor and radio. Today’s blog has the data and the expert analysis that explains this phenomenon.

You can learn a lot about a person when you learn their all-time favorite decade for music. But these days, the traditional patterns are unpredictable, especially when you’re looking at younger generations. Their tastes are all over the music map, and that has implications for radio programmers trying to stay relevant. Today’s blog post has music research you haven’t seen before that’s an eye-opener. It should be water-cooler talk for radio this week.

Radio lost an icon yesterday. The news of TV actor Frank Bonner’s passing conjured up cringe-worthy thoughts of WKRP in Cincinnati’s top (and only) sales rep, the one and only Herb Tarlek. Aside from making us laugh at our radio selves, Herb Tarlek had more impact on the industry than you may think.

The demands on all of us in radio to be more creative are never-ending. Yet, more people are wearing “more hats” than ever before. Is multi-tasking an innovative depressant or a stimulus? I’ve got some research to share and a list of ideas about generating more creativity. Stop multi-tasking for a second and give it a read.

Generating word-of-mouth is the Holy Grail of marketing. But new research by a company that specializes in “buzz marketing” shows that radio has a built-in advantage that just needs to be nurtured and harnessed. Today’s post drills down into who can do it and how it’s done. And who knows – maybe it will generate a little buzz of its own.

One of the unanticipated impact of COVID is the rate at which consumers embraced technology in order to stay in touch with family, friends, and co-workers. This was especially true for Baby Boomers, many of whom advanced their skills, embracing mobile, smart speakers, virtual meetings, and other technology. Of course, that has an impact on the way they listen to their favorite radio stations – the subject of today’s blog post.

The competition is fierce among the audio streaming giants. Spotify has a huge lead, but there’s no quit in Apple, Amazon, or SiriusXM. They’re innovating – trying to develop features that differentiate, while attracting new subscribers. That’s why Amazon Music’s newest innovation – called DJ Mode – is worthy of your attention. For radio people, it will strike a familiar chord.

Generation X is celebrating a big birthday this year, as its members begin to turn the Big 5-0. We Baby Boomers have been there, and done that, as we’ve been pushed aside by advertisers and marketers enamored with (wait for it….) Millennials! For a look at what’s next for Gen X, today’s blog post puts generational spending in perspective. It will make you reach for your Prevagen or maybe your Tums.

There is much wisdom to be gained from every member of the organization – from the CEO to station interns. In the world of concerts, it’s the road crew – the roadies – who witness it all, soaking up those amazing experiences. In today’s guest post, Jacobs Media consultant, Mike Stern, gives us some great life lessons from roadies that can help your program director become a better manager. So, roll those cases, lift those amps, and click below to read Mike’s backstage observations.

Is there any hope for bookstores like Barnes & Noble in an industry now dominated by e-readers and e-commerce? Britisher James Daunt believes he has a plan for effectively countering Amazon, allowing his shops to thrive. The question is whether his radical tactics and strategies could be effective in radio’s ongoing battles against big digital audio competitors.

Marketing dollars are at a premium for most radio stations this year. OK, maybe they’re non-existent. That’s why a station’s most powerful weapon is its email database. Today’s blog post is a chemical breakdown of email marketing that even Bill Nye would be proud of. It combines smart science with experience to help any station become proficient. Take good notes.

As we start a new week in what looks to be a fascinating summer, more and more radio listeners are attending their first concert, sporting event, or radio station promotion in more than one year. There will be much joy to go around, and fans will want to remember these moments with merch that shows they were THERE. And that spells opportunity for stations and shows with loyal followings. I’ve provided some great resources. Hopefully, you’ll lean into the moment.

The media universe is expanding with new players continuing to enter the scene. To help us visualize this changing landscape, there’s a new map of the media universe that provides eye-opening perspective on how all the platforms fit together and compare in size. Ready to be blown away? I promise It will give you a lot to think about – and talk about – especially as it relates to the radio industry and where its fits into the scheme of things.