Radio’s not the only traditional media platform struggling in the revenue column of those harsh spreadsheets. In fact, network television has had a financial famine for some years now, due in large part to its aging demographics. But now a philosophical shift in marketing focus is spreading throughout the TV industry. Could it provide radio “cover” to make an attempt at the same “silver strategy?” Today’s “Best of 2024” blog post looks at a familiar conundrum – radio’s inability or unwillingness to take advantage of its growiing 55+ audience.

It is anyone’s guess whether 2025 turns out to be a rebound year for radio or a continuation of arduous times for the business. Thus, here’s a “Best of” blog post that’s almost one year-old that brought much-needed positive news about radio, defying conventional wisdom about the state of the medium. No, it didn’t change anything, but it felt good to start the new year on a positive, uplifting note. So, let’s try it again. And if no one’s said it to you recently, Happy New Year!

The big – and rather shocking – radio stories this past year came from across the border. It wasn’t that Bell Media was selling off more that 40% of their radio group to seven different broadcast companies – it was that one of their corporate officers announced the reason for the sale: radio is no longer a viable business, according to the company. In today’s “Best of” post, I’ll revisit what it meant to say the quiet part out loud, and why the effects of their announcement was most definitely felt in the 50 states in 2024 – and perhaps, beyond.

The “Best of JacoBLOG” starts this holiday week off, and brother Paul gives me an always welcome writing break. Today, he takes control of the keyboard to author what became one of the most ambitious posts of 2024. It’s all about about the state of radio digital transformation. It’s a tough read, but an important one we hoped would stimulate thought, criticism, and new ideas. Change is hard. But not changing is even harder. This post also marked the launch of Jacobs D.R., our digital revenue initiative spearheaded by Chris Brunt. We’re looking forward to big things in the new year and hope we can be part of the solution.

We always hear “Radio needs to do a better job telling its story.” But where would the creative come from and how could broadcasters pay for it – especially in this economy? OK, here’s some back of the napkin math for you.