U.K.-Based Podcast Radio Now On KAUS-AM, Austin, MN. Podcast Radio continues its U.S. expansion, having just launched on Alpha Media’s KAUS-AM in Austin, MN. 
Focusing on being a trusted guide to podcast discovery, Podcast Radio features a diverse lineup of curated podcasts across various genres, with presenters, giving listeners in Minnesota an expanded radio experience. The station was the first Podcast Radio affiliate to feature dedicated genre hours, including business, true crime, comedy, and musical conversation. According to sources at Podcast Radio, “This genre-based scheduling allows listeners to enjoy expertly curated content that aligns with their interests, delivered through our innovative platform and partnership with Local Radio Network (LRN).” Gerard Edwards, CEO of Podcast Radio, tells TALKERS, “We are excited to have Podcast Radio on in Minnesota. Our genre-based scheduling allows us to offer something for every listener, while using the trusted radio format to connect audiences with the world of podcasts. Alpha Media has been an incredible partner, and we look forward to expanding our presence.” Podcast Radio Minnesota joins Podcast Radio Missouri, broadcasting in dayparts on KREI-AM (Farmington), KWIX AM/FM (Moberly) and KJFF (Festus). Podcast Radio also has four 24/7 stations with Beasley Media Group in Detroit, the Carolinas, Tampa Bay and Southwest Florida. For more information on how to bring Podcast Radio to your station, contact Gerard Edwards — gerard@podcastradionetwork.com — or send general questions to info@podcastradionetwork.com.
USRN and Key Networks Announce Joint Sales Venture: Key United. United Stations Radio Networks (USRN) and Key Networks, two players in national radio network sales and syndication, have announced the unification of their sales forces into a joint venture called Key United. According to company sources, this strategic partnership unites the strengths of both companies, creating an enhanced sales organization with expanded reach and capabilities for the advertising market. Both Key Networks and United Stations will continue to produce, market. and distribute audio programming independently to the radio and affiliate markets. Dennis Green and Stefan Jones will continue to oversee Key and USRN production affiliations and operations. The new, combined sales force will be led by COO of Gemini XIII, Charles Steinhauer and Key Networks’ president of sales, Ron Russo.
Woodward Purchases Seven Radio Stations in Springfield and Bloomington, Illinois from Neuhoff. Woodward Communications Inc. (WCI) has officially acquired seven radio station brands from Neuhoff Media in Springfield and Bloomington, Illinois. The sale was completed yesterday (10/1). According to sources at Woodward, the acquired brands align with WCI’s focus on local community media properties in certain market sizes that serve niche and lifestyle audiences. They expand WCI’s footprint in Illinois and bring experienced teams and talent to the employee-owned company. In addition to a variety of music formats, the acquired outlets include Sports Radio 92.3 FM and 1450 AM, Springfield and Channel 1450, a digital platform in Springfield covering high school sports.