In this episode, Steve Shultis, Morgan Chosnyk, Marc Maison, Sami Tenkanen, and Gabrielle Jones discuss RadioWeek 2026, focusing on radio's evolving role and audience engagement strategies. They explore how Bauer Media and KEXP attract younger listeners, New York Public Radio's digital ecosystem, and funding for African digital audiences. The conversation covers social media's impact, Farm Radio, video content evolution, music's role, and live content's importance for the African diaspora. They also touch on monetization strategies, radio vs. new media strengths, and creating impactful, community-focused content.

(0:00) Introduction to Radio Week 2026

(0:17) Overview of the day's topic and housekeeping

(1:25) Introduction of panelists

(5:05) The evolving role of radio and audience engagement strategies

(11:45) Engaging younger audiences with Bauer Media and KEXP

(18:43) Digital ecosystems and audience engagement at New York Public Radio

(24:51) Sponsor: RCS and audience questions on playlists and trends

(27:26) Funding strategies and adapting to digital audiences in Africa

(29:47) Social media engagement and Farm Radio's impact

(33:33) Engaging the African diaspora and the importance of live content

(39:53) Evolution of video content and building digital audiences

(50:03) Visuals in broadcasts and the role of music as a hook

(52:15) Listener engagement through digital interaction and local artists

(55:28) DJ curation flexibility and paying homage to artists

(58:10) Apps and playlists for audience engagement

(1:01:44) Radio's monetization strategies and third-party platform promotion

(1:06:21) Live performance logistics and the strengths of radio vs. new media

(1:08:08) Human connection and community-focused content

(1:10:05) Creating impactful content and closing remarks