I recently met with consultant, strategist, and all-around radio sage Tracy Johnson to get his insights on how stations can stop dabbling in digital and start banking on it. From his Nebraska beginnings to building an AI content engine that curates 13+ format-specific versions of every story in under two minutes, Tracy unpacks the playbook that turns "we're too busy" into "we can't believe the ROI." If you’ve ever wondered how to sell a divorce giveaway, hire digital-first sellers, or put an AI sidekick in every programmer’s pocket, buckle up.

Meet our guest: Tracy Johnson

• CEO, Tracy Johnson Media Group
• Creator, Radio Content Pro and the upcoming Ava Hart Studio AI assistant
• 35+ years of programming, consulting, and market-managing stations from San Diego to Jacksonville
• Former Triton Digital VP who helped 200+ stations grow on-air and online audiences

Action Steps for Station Leaders

1. Audit Your Digital Mindset – Pinpoint whether you’re still merely “accepting” digital or actively investing in it.
2. Segment Your Sales Force – Split traditional and digital sellers; let each excel in their lane.
3. Program Your Website – Assign a content “PD” and purge anything outdated (yes, even the 2021 blog draft).
4. Leverage High-Value Promotions – Package results, not just spots. Ask clients the lifetime value of one lead—price accordingly.
5. Experiment with AI Today – Start small: have an AI tool write teases, blog intros, or promo copy. Measure the time saved.
6. Prepare for Ava Hart – List the repetitive coaching questions you field; soon an AI can handle 80 % of them.

Links & Resources