John Clay Wolfe Inks Expansive New Deal with iHeartMedia
Weekend talk show host John Clay Wolfe expands his national profile via a new multiyear agreement with iHeartMedia that will, effective July 11, have the “John Clay Wolfe Show” on 116 iHeartMedia radio stations across the United States. The four-hour Saturday morning program will also continue its live, interactive simulcast on YouTube. In celebration of the rollout, the July 25 
edition of the show will emanate from Jay Leno’s Garage, with special guest, Jay Leno. Wolfe says, “For 20 years we’ve never tried to fit into a radio format. We’ve simply tried to make people laugh. The cars brought people to the show, but the stories, characters, the guests and the friendships are what kept them coming back every Saturday. We’re grateful to everyone who’s been part of the journey and excited to welcome a whole new audience.” iHeartMedia division president Eddie Martiny states, “John Clay Wolfe has built one of the most entertaining and engaging programs in radio, and we’re excited to expand his reach across our platform. Growing ‘The John Clay Wolfe Show’ to nearly 120 iHeart stations is a testament to the strength of the show and our shared commitment to delivering compelling, relevant programming to our listeners. We’re proud to partner with John and look forward to continuing this incredible growth together.”
hour-long morning program with Josh Albrecht. The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports the program will also air across Audacy’s Wisconsin Sports Radio Network in markets including Greeb Bay-Appleton, Wausau, Madison, and Duluth-Superior. Czaban previously hosted a morning program on iHeartMedia’s then-sports WRNW-FM “97.3 The Game” that iHeartMedia flipped to AC last fall. 
November to co-host “The Morning Drive with Dan & Cole” alongside Dan Mathews, who continues to host mornings solo. 
owned-and-operated digital inventory both locally and nationally, including digital, audio, podcasts and creator-led content, creating a more unified path for advertisers to activate multi-platform campaigns at scale. iHeartMedia chief business officer Lisa Coffey comments, “Advertisers are increasingly looking for media solutions that combine scale, intelligence and simplicity across channels. By combining Amazon Ads’ shopping insights and advertising technology with iHeart’s audio leadership, we’re creating a more seamless, data-informed way for brands to create more effective campaigns across sound and sight.”
Lucas Strain and Connor Ferguson of the afternoon show “Off The Bench” are out, as are hosts of “The 1st Quarter,” Heather Burnside and Alec Busse. Roberts says in a Facebook post, “Earlier today after our show myself as many others were laid off at iHeart Des Moines. I’m not angry or am going to blame anyone… it’s part of the business. You can have good ratings, good revenue etc… Doesn’t matter… your number on that excel sheet can be picked any day. I sit here proud of my career in radio and proud of what we did at KXnO. I’ve been doing sports talk radio in Des Moines since 2014 and it’s been a hell of a ride with so many people to thank.”
company works to become more nimble. The memo also notes that while it will be creating new roles to this end in the future, the unfortunate reality is that some people are going to lose their jobs. “We have given this a great deal of thought and do not take this step lightly; we are deeply grateful for the contributions of those affected, and we’re committed to supporting them through this transition.”
consumption (64%) comes from broadcast radio, yet up until today, it has lacked the targeting and measurement infrastructure available in digital. iHeartMedia’s broadcast radio stations reach more than 278 million consumers every month, and now with AudioGraph, for the first time, advertisers can plan, target, measure, and attribute that audience using privacy-safe, ID-informed insights with digital-like precision.”
commitment to fueling the future of sport by connecting fans with the athletes and moments that define the next generation of the game. We’re proud to amplify NXXT Golf’s mission through the power of radio, podcasts and streaming audio – bringing new audiences to the sport and supporting the next generation of elite talent.” As a cornerstone of the partnership, iHeartMedia will serve as a title and presenting sponsor across NXXT Golf’s premier event portfolio – including the NXXT Faldo Junior Tour, the NXXT Women’s Pro Tour, and the season’s most prestigious championship events.
Cumulus Media VP of programming operations Doug Hamand says that he is retiring at the end of June. Hamand served for more than two decades with iHeartMedia and its predecessors before joining Cumulus Media in the corporate programming role. He posts to Facebook, “I’ve had a ball. It’s hard to believe that when I started 48 years ago, this day would ever come — but here we are. I’m excited to share that I will be retiring at the end of June.”
only stations and its catalog of podcasts will now be available on the LG Radio+ app that’s included on LG Smart TVs running webOS 6.0 and above. iHeart Digital Audio Group CEO Conal Byrne comments, “We are excited to integrate iHeartRadio into LG Radio+. This integration reflects our commitment to meeting listeners everywhere they are, making premium audio content even more accessible in a seamless experience across the connected home.”
off – at least for now. That the two media firms were in preliminary talks first broke in early May. As DealBook notes, there is a history between the two companies: “Liberty SiriusXM Group, once an affiliate of John Malone’s media empire, used to hold significant stakes in both companies. Liberty SiriusXM eventually sold its stake in iHeartMedia (primarily a broadcast radio company) and split off its ownership of SiriusXM (primarily a satellite radio company) into a separate entity.”
music brands. iHeartMedia area president Matt Bell says, “Margie’s passion for this business, her commitment to the Mansfield and Marion communities and the relationships she built over nearly four decades have left an incredible mark on our company and everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her. She has been a trusted leader, mentor and advocate for both our employees and our partners, and her presence will truly be missed. We are deeply grateful for everything she has contributed to iHeartMedia and wish her nothing but happiness and success in this next chapter.” Reflecting on her career, Tasseff comments, “Spending 39 years with one employer is truly uncommon. I’m deeply proud of what we’ve built together over the years — from the friendships and partnerships to the impact we’ve made through local radio. I’ve been fortunate to grow professionally while working with outstanding colleagues and serving a community that has meant so much to me. These stations will always hold a special place in my heart.”
with those breaks filled by exclusive bonus segments, behind‑the‑scenes moments, extended discussions and original content – resulting in nearly three continuous hours of programming each day.” iHeartMedia chairman Bob Pittman comments, “The Breakfast Club has always been at the center of culture, breaking artists, shaping conversations, and reflecting real life in real time. Taking this show live every day to a global audience on Netflix is a powerful example of how we’re expanding the reach of our biggest brands while giving audiences entirely new ways to experience them. Whether it’s morning in NYC or the afternoon in London, the conversation is live and reaching the world in real time.”
The Radio Hall of Fame announces this year’s class of inductees and among them are iHeartMedia chairman Bob Pittman and WFAN, New York morning drive personality Boomer Esiason. The 2026 inductees will be honored at the 2026 Induction Ceremony on Thursday, October 8 at the Fairmont Hotel in Chicago. 
supporting event promotion, fan engagement, entertainment programming, athlete storytelling, and community initiatives surrounding BFL events across the country.” Just what is the Beach Football League? It’s a new sports league founded by former NFL linebacker Tully Banta-Cain. “The BFL combines professional tackle football on sand with music, celebrity appearances, youth camps and festival-style beachfront entertainment experiences.” The partnership began last weekend with the Santa Cruz Beach Classic and continues with this Saturday’s Fiesta Hermosa Sunset Showdown. 
dcast and an extension of The Breakfast Club’s popular “Front Page News” radio segment. Black Effect says host Mimi Brown expands her on-air coverage of the most-talked-about news stories each weekday into easily digestible 10-to-12-minute episodes that will give listeners more of the headline-making details they crave.
1300” in New Haven. iHeartMedia SVP of programming Dylan Sprague says, “Michael’s energy, passion and leadership make him a strong fit to lead our Sports and Talk portfolio in Hartford and New Haven. These are powerful brands and we’re excited to build on their success under Michael’s leadership.” Johnson comments, “I am thrilled to begin this next chapter at iHeart. Sports fans are passionate and engaged. I am eager to grow all of the stations, deepen the connections with listeners and continue expanding our digital presence.”
platform via a “Live Radio” button in the upper right corner of the dashboard. The companies say mobile app integration is planned for a future phase. iHeartMedia president of business development and strategic partnerships Michael Biondo says, “This partnership puts iHeart’s live radio in front of MapQuest’s millions of monthly users, giving consumers more of the content they seek. It’s a simple, intuitive way to extend our reach and enhance how people experience audio on the go.”
across audio and digital channels within a unified framework.” Magellan AI’s platform will leverage iHeartMedia’s simulcast data, which maps listeners exposed to broadcast radio to measurable outcomes. Attribution reporting powered by that data will be available exclusively to advertisers working with iHeartMedia. Magellan AI says, “Advertisers using the solution will gain deeper insights into how radio campaigns deliver full-funnel results, including web visits, form fills, leads and purchases. By combining measurement across the full spectrum of audio and digital channels, Magellan AI provides a complete view of how campaigns perform across the media mix.” iHeartMedia Insights president Lainie Fertick states, “iHeartMedia has always focused on helping advertisers understand the power of audio. By combining Magellan AI’s attribution technology with our proprietary in-market simulcast data, we’re providing brands with deeper visibility into how broadcast radio works alongside podcasts, streaming audio, connected TV, and other channels to drive meaningful results.”
requests for comment. The report states, “Liberty SiriusXM Group, once an affiliate of John Malone’s media empire, formerly held significant stakes in both companies. But it eventually sold its stake in iHeartMedia, primarily a broadcast radio company, and split off its ownership of SiriusXM, the satellite radio company, into a separate entity.” The story goes on to underscore that the talks are in the early stages, and a deal may not take place. 
Louisville area president Kristy Beebee says, “Christopher brings an exceptional track record of leadership, creativity and strategic vision, and will be a tremendous asset to our teams and listeners. Louisville is a dynamic, growing market, and we’re excited to see the impact he’ll make as we continue to elevate and strengthen our brands, talent and community connections.” Layfield most recently served with Cumulus Media as SVP of programming for Indianapolis. 
responsibilities outside of Philadelphia, including the Upstate New York, Mid-Atlantic and New England areas. iHeartMedia EVP of programming Thea Mitchem says, “Jeff is a proven leader with a deep understanding of our brands, our audiences and the power of strong programming. His ability to strategically elevate stations while developing great teams makes him the right choice to lead programming in Philadelphia, and I’m confident he’ll continue to drive success in this important market.”
Jennifer Arnise says, “Winning the ‘Pitch your Podcast’ contest was so validating and made me feel like my voice and the hidden stories of Black women really matter. This podcast is a love letter to Black girls who never felt seen or heard by their mothers and feels like getting the best advice from your tough but loving big sister and your drunk bestie. It’s what I wish I would’ve had when I started my healing journey.” The launch comes ahead of the fourth annual Black Effect Podcast Festival taking place April 25 at Pullman Yards in Atlanta where the “Pitch Your Podcast” booth will once again be available for festival attendees. The activation allows creators to pitch their shows to members of the Black Effect team for the chance to join the network.
TALKERS “Heavy Hundred” national prominence for years, originally launching his daily three-hour “The Dr. Asa Show” on its flagship radio affiliate, iHeart’s WLAC, Nashville. Andrew has subsequently and simultaneously returned to his roots as a professional wrestler and recently joined TNA Wrestling as the company’s ringside physician and head of sports medicine.
Markets Group, including the radio stations, the iHeart live events and sponsorships; the radio networks businesses, including Premiere and TTWN; the Enterprise Business Development Group; and data targeting and attribution products for broadcast radio. iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman states, “We couldn’t be more pleased that Ann Marie will be leading the growth and innovation efforts for our company’s largest segment. In addition to helping businesses and brands grow effectively and efficiently, the Multiplatform Group has been an important engine to develop our own important new businesses – including podcasting and the iHeartRadio digital service – as well as our iconic live music events and awards shows. We look forward to the additional growth that will come as we move broadcast radio into the digital buying world through our data services and programmatic platforms.” The company also announced that Bernie Weiss will be promoted to president of the Markets Group. Weiss will oversee the operations of the company’s 160 markets. Weiss was previously COO of the iHeartMedia Markets Group.
longtime “Voice of the Colorado Rockies” Jack Corrigan and executive producerJesse Thomas. Goodman – a Colorado native – joins the broadcast team after spending the past two seasons as the radio voice of the Arizona Diamondbacks AA affiliate, the Amarillo Sod Poodles in Texas. KOA and Rockies Radio PD Dave Tepper says, “I was immediately impressed by Zach’s natural, versatile talent first hearing him nearly two years ago. Rockies fans will appreciate his passionate, descriptive style, fueled by years of playing college baseball, alongside one of the great voices of the game, Jack Corrigan.”
greater access to trusted news and talk at a time when local information matters more than ever. This expansion reflects our ongoing commitment to serve Asheville and the surrounding communities with credible voices, local connection and meaningful conversations.” iHeartMedia area SVP of programming Zac Davis adds, “After our post–Hurricane Helene broadcast, it became clear just how essential WWNC is to Western North Carolina. Over the past year, we’ve focused on expanding our ability to serve the community, and this next step allows us to reach even more listeners. It’s a natural extension of the incredible work our Asheville team has already done.”
Milner comments, “Joyce is an experienced market leader with deep relationships across Salt Lake City, enabling her to bring sharp local insight and credibility to every client partnership. She excels at delivering integrated marketing solutions, helping clients leverage our multi-platform strategies that maximize the combined power of audio and digital to drive results. Joyce will be a tremendous asset to our Salt Lake City team and a growth catalyst for our clients.”
-platform footprint, we’re thrilled to welcome Jamie and his decades of expertise in driving meaningful success for blue chip media companies. Jamie swings big, experiences that inspire action, drive growth and leave lasting impressions on the audience. He will fit right in as our team continues to push innovative ideas at the leading edge of the industry.” Cutburth says, “My role sits at the intersection between brand, revenue, content and culture, and will ensure that iHeart shows up in the market with a clear story and a modern marketing engine. I am excited to bring my years of building successful partnerships and experiences to this team and to a company so clearly focused on innovation and growth.”
iHeartMedia division president Jeff Thomas says, “Over the past three months I have had the opportunity to work with Care and I can say without hesitation that she is the best person for this important role. Her leadership and coaching skills make her a perfect fit for the position.” Jones comments, “I’m absolutely thrilled to step into the role of market president at iHeartMedia — it’s an incredible honor and an even greater opportunity. I can’t wait to celebrate big wins, chase bold goals and grow alongside a truly exceptional team.”
and Sliwa” airs daily from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Sliwa most recently served with the Los Angeles Lakers Radio Network. Station PD Mary Ayala says, “I’m incredibly excited to welcome Allen to our team. His experience, sports knowledge and natural connection with listeners make him an outstanding addition to our station. Pairing Allen with Jon creates a team we believe will deliver one of San Diego’s premier sports talk shows.”
Worldwide provides audio creation tools, media intelligence, music analytics and television operations technology. She takes over for Philippe Generali. RCS says, “Her leadership roles in major markets further shaped her as an operator who understands scale, complexity, and the disciplined, data‑driven decision‑making required to deliver strong performance across diverse portfolios.”