Radio Influencers

Radio Influencers podcast host Andy Meadows highlights the harmful practice of radio on-air talent criticizing their station's music selection while on the air. Meadows argues that supporting the playlist is a fundamental job requirement, as disparaging the music alienates listeners and damages the station's brand. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

Host and radio consultant Andy Meadows examines the necessity of streamlining or eliminating radio show intros to better engage modern audiences. He argues that protracted, repetitive openings often alienate new listeners and cause loyal fans to lose interest, drawing parallels to how television networks have shortened their own intros. While acknowledging that some broadcasters feel these segments establish a specific atmosphere, Meadows suggests a compromise of limiting introductions to under ten seconds. This approach prioritizes immediate content delivery over self-serving production, ensuring that airtime is used effectively to hook the audience. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode, host and radio consultant Andy Meadows explores the transition from the creator economy to the AI economy, emphasizing the importance of AI tools in the future of radio and business. He discusses how AI is reshaping industries, the necessity of adopting AI for competitiveness, and practical steps for organizations to integrate AI effectively. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode, host and radio consultant Andy Meadows explores the best microphones for podcasting, considering various factors like budget, recording environment, and equipment. He provides practical recommendations for beginners and experienced podcasters alike. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode host and radio consultant Andy Meadows explores why radio on-air talent should embrace digital content creation now, not later. He discusses the disconnect between radio management and talent regarding digital efforts, the potential for talent to dominate podcasting, and practical solutions for integrating digital into radio careers. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

Host and radio consultant Andy Meadows discusses the realities of radio industry challenges, the importance of modern tools like AI, and dispels the myth of quick fixes in radio. He shares insights on effective strategies, industry trends, and how to adapt for success. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

Following up on ep 1 of this season this episode explores the evolving landscape of AI-generated music, its impact on the industry, and how radio can adapt to this technological shift. Host Andy Meadows shares insights from recent AI music trends, listener reactions, and future implications for radio stations. He also highlights more AI artists including The Velvet Sundown, Enlly Blue, Aventhis, Sienna Rose, Unbound Music and Eddie Dalton. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

This episode explores how successful radio groups empower their employees to thrive in a challenging industry. Host and radio consultant Andy Meadows shares practical strategies, tools, and cultural practices that foster innovation, accountability, and local engagement. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

Radio consultant and host Andy Meadows explores modern digital strategies for radio talent and broadcasters. Meadows highlights advice from entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk, emphasizing the importance of repurposing long-form content into short, engaging social media clips. Something that can be done efficiently using modern AI tools. Then testing those clips organically to see which ones over-index with the audience. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

Radio consultant and host Andy Meadows explores the balance between being unique and practical in radio branding, programming and content creation. He emphasizes the importance of research, adaptation, historical lessons and collaboration over always trying to be entirely original for the sake of it. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode host and radio consultant Andy Meadows explores how radio stations can establish a data-driven baseline for airplay, moving away from outdated methods and embracing modern market-level song data to enhance programming decisions. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode, host and radio consultant Andy Meadows explores how the concept of a studio is evolving in the digital age, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, portable setups, and content creation for modern radio and media professionals. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the pressing financial challenges facing the radio industry, creating the need for fewer but more skilled employees. He highlights the stark pay disparity between radio jobs and fast-food positions, emphasizing the need for radio stations to adapt to changing market conditions and embrace new technologies like AI. Meadows calls for both management and employees to enhance their skills and engagement to drive revenue and improve the industry's future. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the decline of request hours in radio and how to revive them. He shares insights from recent polls about radio station operations and emphasizes the importance of engaging listeners through live interactions. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by radio stations in maintaining listener engagement and offers strategies to modernize request hours, including the use of technology and creative content approaches. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the value of using social media clips to inform radio show content decisions. He discusses how feedback and stats from those clips can help on-air talent identify which topics their listeners are most likely to engage with. The episode also covers four practical steps for recording and editing short-form content, highlighting the role of AI in streamlining the editing process. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the critical role of radio in severe weather situations. He emphasizes the need for radio stations to be well-prepared for emergencies, the importance of local live coverage, and the challenges faced by Texas (his home state) during severe weather events. Meadows also highlights the necessity for on-air talent to have home studios and a solid severe weather plan to ensure effective communication with the public during crises. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows dives into the importance of DIY digital content creation for radio professionals. Meadows stresses that radio talent must adapt to the digital landscape by enhancing their skills in content creation, which can significantly increase their value in the industry. He shares insights on how modern tools, such as AI, can streamline the content creation process, allowing talent to produce engaging material efficiently. Meadows further explains the benefits of creating digital content, such as receiving immediate feedback from audiences, which can inform future programming decisions. He encourages radio talent to experiment with their content, suggesting that stepping away from the traditional radio format can lead to more authentic and engaging material. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the current state of radio amidst rapid technological advancements, particularly focusing on insights from CES and what they could mean for radio. He shares poll results indicating a majority of radio decision-makers are hesitant to embrace AI-generated music. Meadows emphasizes the importance of adaptation and innovation in the radio industry, likening the current transitional phase to a montage moment in a movie, where significant changes occur quickly. He encourages hiring new talent to bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the industry. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the emergence of AI-generated music and its implications for the radio industry. He shares his experience of being fooled by an AI artist, Cain Walker, and explores the challenges that real artists face in a landscape where AI can produce music at an unprecedented scale. He also highlights a few other AI-generated artists, Breaking Rust, Xania Monet, Juno Skye and ChildPets Galore. The conversation also touches on the complexities of music licensing in the age of AI. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the growing dominance of Christmas music in radio programming. He shares insights from recent polls and data showing that listeners are tuning in to holiday music earlier than ever. The conversation highlights the national and market-level data that illustrates the popularity of Christmas songs, while also addressing the challenges radio programmers face from listener feedback, particularly from a vocal minority who dislike holiday music. Meadows encourages engagement from listeners and radio professionals to share their experiences and thoughts on the topic. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses iHeart's Guaranteed Human Campaign, which promises to avoid AI voices and music. He critiques the campaign as misleading and suggests a more effective approach: a Guaranteed Live and Local campaign that emphasizes real-time listener engagement. Meadows shares insights on the importance of call-ins and how they can enhance the quality of radio shows, ultimately advocating for a more interactive and local radio experience. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode, host Andy Meadows examines the critical need for changes in how the radio industry handles digital staffing. Meadows argues that the strategy of hiring a single "digital person," which began in the early 2000s, is outdated because digital content demands have exploded to include extensive video, social media, and podcast content. Citing vast increases in global screen time and mobile usage, he concludes that radio stations are now obligated to adopt an "all hands on deck" approach where every employee contributes to the creation of digital assets. While existing digital specialists are still necessary, their roles should transition to focusing on training and coaching the entire staff rather than simply executing tasks. Prior to this discussion, Meadows also reviewed a recent poll confirming that the majority of programmers prefer to wait for official release dates before playing new popular songs, a stance Meadows disagrees with. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode, host Andy Meadows discusses the issue of radio stations adhering to traditional single release dates for new music, arguing that this practice makes them slow to adopt popular songs their audience is already hearing on digital platforms. Meadows stresses that radio should add popular songs based on local market data and audience consumption, rather than waiting for an official "single release" from a label, even if it means buying the music or creating custom radio edits. Additionally, the episode begins with a review of recent "Radio Update" poll results, which surveyed radio professionals on the easiest elements to sell during the holidays, with holiday greetings slightly edging out other options like Christmas music sponsorship and specialty programming. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this conversation, host Andy Meadows focuses on how to identify and fix "marathon breaks"—segments where radio on-air talent speaks significantly longer than intended. Meadows outlines several strategies for managing break length, including establishing clear time parameters, coaching talent to plan their breaks, prioritizing show preparation, and pre-recording interviews instead of doing them live to maintain control over segment duration. He also shares the results of recent "Radio Update" polls, revealing that radio decision-makers primarily get their news from newspapers, radio, and TV, and that a majority of stations have "little or no" local content on their websites. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the current challenges facing the radio industry, particularly in forecasting its future amidst troubling headlines of layoffs and bankruptcies. He emphasizes the importance of self-improvement and a willingness to try a different approach as we fight to maintain radio's relevance and profitability. Arguing that it's up to those of us who still have a passion for radio to decide whether we're entering the next chapter or the end. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the challenges and opportunities in the radio industry regarding digital content creation and revenue generation. It highlights the significant gap between the revenue expected from digital platforms and the actual investment made by radio groups in digital content. The discussion emphasizes the need for radio stations to adapt to a content-driven world by investing in digital tools and strategies to enhance their online presence and engagement. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the timing of Christmas music programming, highlighting listener behavior changes and the performance of classic and new holiday songs. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to audience preferences and shares insights from recent data on popular Christmas tracks. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast is recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the concept of 'game changers' in the radio industry. He encourages radio stations to think big and embrace innovative ideas, especially in a challenging economic climate. The conversation explores various potential game changers, including the use of AI tools, video content, and audience engagement strategies. Meadows invites listeners to reflect on their own game changers and share their experiences. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast was recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the detrimental effects of having problematic employees, referred to as 'A-holes', within radio groups. He highlights the challenges of balancing creativity and criticism in teams. The conversation emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive workplace culture and the long-term benefits of moving on from toxic individuals. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast was recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers host Andy Meadows focuses on the anticipated impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on radio industry jobs. Meadows opens by presenting the results of two recent polls conducted by Radio Update, one concerning on-air talent using fake names and another regarding LinkedIn profile activity among radio decision makers. The primary discussion addresses the question of which radio jobs AI will replace first, identifying roles such as administrative staff, liner DJs, and order-taking sales representatives as being at immediate risk. Meadows advises radio professionals to fully embrace AI tools to enhance their work to keep the technology from replacing them, asserting that the vast majority of jobs across all industries will eventually be impacted by AI. He also shares a clip of the new AI-generated actress Tilly. Meadows ends with a positive note about the backlash he expects from a segment of the population to AI-generated art and content and how that could benefit radio. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast was recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses why he thinks radio talent should stop using fake on-air names. He shares insights from recent polls, personal experiences, and the evolving landscape of media that emphasizes authenticity. Meadows argues that while fake names have historical significance, the current trend favors real names for better audience connection and branding. He invites listeners to share their opinions on the matter. You can also watch the full episode here. This podcast was recorded using Riverside.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the suspension and reinstatement of Jimmy Kimmel's late night show, exploring the reactions surrounding the event, the role of the FCC commissioner, and the broader implications for media and content creation. The conversation highlights the divide in public opinion based on political affiliations and raises concerns about government influence in media. You can also watch the full episode here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the evolution of radio studios and how to maximize content creation. He shares insights from industry experts and outlines eight essential steps for modernizing studio design. The conversation also touches on revenue opportunities through studio rentals and the importance of simplifying the content creation process for talent. Riverside Affiliate Link. You can also watch the full episode here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy discusses the importance of developing good on-air habits to replace bad ones. Highlighting a few bad habits that plague veteran radio talent. He emphasizes the role of routines in radio, the necessity of refreshing show content, and the impact of digital and AI tools on creativity. The episode also highlights the value of air check sessions for talent improvement. You can also watch the full episode here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows focuses on encouraging radio talent to overcome their hesitations and actively create digital content, emphasizing its importance for the industry's competitiveness. Meadows addresses common excuses for not creating digital content and then introduces various AI-powered tools and platforms like Riverside, Radio Content Pro, Captions.ai, Quso.ai, and Google's VEO3, that simplify and enhance the content creation process, particularly for short-form video. The host also discusses the growing trend of radio broadcasters engaging more with digital content and invites audience feedback on the topic.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the reliance on Mediabase AirPlay charts for programming decisions and the advantages of using market-level streaming data over traditional metrics. He addresses common pushbacks against streaming data and emphasizes the need for radio stations to adapt to changing audience behaviors. Andy also goes over the recent Radio Update poll results and emphasizes the importance of self-serve ad portals. You can also watch the full ep here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows shares the full "Big Time Content, Small Time Budget" panel he moderated at the Texas Association of Broadcasters (TAB) 2025 convention. Panel guests Erin Wilde (92.1 Hank FM), John Butler (Butler7Media), and Daniel Hyatt (DNav Inc) discuss how to create content that looks and sounds major market in any size market on a limited budget. The experts share strategies for designing video and conversation friendly studios, affordable content creation tools, how to pull off some of the big promotions we used to do in radio and more. You can also watch the full episode here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows shares insights from the Texas Association of Broadcasters (TAB) 2025 convention, and includes the full panel he moderated focusing on extending radio brands online. Panel guests RJ Ochoa (SB Nation & Blogging the Boys), John Reynolds (Middlin Creative), Jim Sherwood (Skyrocket Radio) and Brent Hoodenpyle (Persuading for Profits) discuss the importance of creating engaging video content, the value of short-form content, and optimizing digital presence. Experts share strategies for timely content creation and balancing advertising with valuable content, ultimately advocating for radio's relevance in today's marketing landscape. You can also watch the full episode here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the concept of never having a bad day on the radio and its implications for podcasting. He explores the challenges radio talent face when transitioning to long-form podcasting, advocating for a more authentic and relaxed approach to engage audiences effectively. Meadows also shares insights from a recent poll on on-air talent's digital content performance and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive demeanor on air. You can watch the full episode here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the importance of workshopping publicly to enhance digital content creation. He emphasizes the challenges faced by radio professionals in adapting to the digital landscape, where competition is fierce and audience attention is hard to capture. Meadows provides strategies for effective content creation, including leveraging on-air material and thinking like a journalist to seize content opportunities. You can also watch the full ep here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the evolving landscape of intellectual property in the age of AI. He outlines his perspective on the three phases of AI development and its implications for job markets, particularly in the radio industry. Meadows emphasizes the enduring value of human-created content amidst the rise of AI-generated material, advocating for continuous evolution and innovation in creative fields. You can also watch the full ep here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the importance of respecting the platforms used for content creation, particularly in radio and digital media. He emphasizes that failing to respect these platforms can lead to disconnection with the audience, especially new listeners. The conversation explores the challenges faced by radio talent in adapting to digital media, the necessity of pushing creative boundaries, and the importance of consistency in delivering quality content. Meadows encourages talent to embrace change and engage with their audience effectively. You can also watch the full episode here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the recent severe weather events in his old hometown of Kerrville, Texas, and the critical role of radio in emergency situations. He emphasizes the need for better training and preparedness across the radio industry to effectively cover severe weather and serve local communities. The conversation highlights the importance of local radio as a lifeline during emergencies and the responsibility of radio professionals to be ready to act in critical situations. If you feel led to donate to victims of the recent Central Texas Floods, here is a link to do that. You can also watch this full episode here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the importance of evolving in the radio industry through embracing AI tools, the necessity of coaching, and adopting a data-driven approach to programming. He emphasizes the need for local content and the role of consultants in helping individuals and stations improve their performance. You can also watch the full episode here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the critical choice between syndicated and local content in radio. He emphasizes the importance of local content for revenue generation and how local talent can compete with well-structured syndicated shows by leveraging their unique local presence and engaging with the community. Meadows also highlights the necessity of digital content creation and the value of coaching for local on-air talent. You can also watch the full episode here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the integration of AI avatars in user-generated content (UGC) for radio stations. He emphasizes the importance of content creation strategies and how AI tools can enhance audience engagement. The conversation explores various AI platforms, their capabilities, and the potential limitations they present for radio content creators. Meadows encourages listeners to experiment with these AI tools, like Captions and VEO 3, to find innovative ways to connect with their audience. You can also watch the full episode here. 

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the significance of hiring, identifying and promoting self-sufficient employees in the radio industry, especially in the context of digital transformation. He reflects on the success of Barstool Sports and how their management style fosters an entrepreneurial spirit among employees. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in content creation and the necessity for radio professionals to adapt and learn new skills to thrive in a competitive landscape. You can also watch the full episode here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the implications of AI in the radio industry, reflecting on his article 'Scary AI Quotes.' He explores the impact of AI on jobs, creativity, and the future of media, emphasizing the need for radio professionals to embrace AI tools ethically. The conversation includes notable quotes from tech leaders and insights into Google's VEO 3, a new AI video generator, while addressing the dual nature of AI as both an opportunity and a threat. You can also watch the full episode here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses the need for radio programmers to adjust their artist separation rules, using Morgan Wallen's recent album release as a case study. He highlights the evolution of these rules over time, the dominance of certain artists in various genres, and the importance of adapting to current music consumption trends. The conversation emphasizes the need for radio stations to reflect the actual listening habits of their audience rather than adhering to outdated programming norms. You can also watch the full episode here.

In this episode of Radio Influencers, host Andy Meadows discusses ways to bring joy back into the radio industry. He emphasizes the importance of community engagement, attending conventions, and outsourcing inefficiencies to enhance productivity and creativity. Meadows encourages radio professionals to reconnect with the magic of their work and to actively seek ways to make radio fun again, both for themselves and their listeners. You can also watch the full episode here.