UK

Podcast Radio with Krantz Media Group have signed a deal with Local Radio Networks marking LRN’s first venture into all-talk formats.

LRN is the network organisation that operates and syndicates Jack FM in the US.
The new deal will make Podcast Radio’s format available through the Local Radio Networks delivery platform, allowing it to be inputted directly into each affiliates automation system to offer talk content both 24/7 and throughout the schedule as dayparts.
Gerry Edwards, CEO of Podcast Radio said: “We are beyond excited to be partnering with LRN. Our respective teams have engaged like kindred spirits in the sharing of tech and platform advancements.
“We cannot wait to hear Podcast Radio brands executing on the LRN platform that will allow stations an unparalleled degree of programming flexibility that is simply not common in the Talk syndication industry.”
Steve Swick, President and CEO of Local Radio Networks commented: “We’re excited to partner with Podcast Radio to bring this innovative format to our partner’s and broadcast groups. It’s an excellent opportunity to diversify our 24/7 music formats and content offerings and introduce a fresh, dynamic listening experience to our audience and affiliates alike across radio dials.”
Gary Krantz, CEO of Krantz Media Group, who is overseeing the management of Podcast Radio’s syndication, added: “We are excited to expand Podcast Radio’s presence into Local Radio Network’s ecosystem. Together, we’re creating a new way for listeners to discover and enjoy the best in podcast content through the familiar and trusted medium of radio.” […]

Former BBC Radio Merseyside presenter Roger Lyon is joining Liverpool Live to host a regular weekend show.

In a post on Facebook, he said that he’s covering Frankie Connor’s Saturday afternoon Retro Show for the next two weeks and then he’ll begin his own regular Sunday evening show.
Roger, who joined BBC Radio Merseyside in 1988, previously presented the Retro Sunday programme as well as a range of other shows on the station.
His new show on Liverpool Live starts on Sunday 16th June from 7pm to 10pm.
Roger said: “Really hope that some of you who were so kind and loyal to me at Radio Merseyside for so long, will join me now on Liverpool Live.” […]

Radio TechCon supported by Broadcast Bionics will return to IET London: Savoy Place on Monday 25th November.

There will be no change to ticket prices and discounts for the third year, and the Radio TechCon Bursary Scheme will be offered to support accessibility and inclusion in the industry.
The sessions from Radio TechCon 2023 will be available to watch for free, thanks to Broadcast Bionics . Each week over the summer, a new video from the 2023 event will be released on the Radio TechCon website and YouTube channel.
Aradhna Tayal Leach, from organisers TBC Media Ltd. Says: “We can’t wait to bring together our radio and audio tech community again this November. As the only event focused on engineering and technical concerns, it’s an important highlight of the calendar, where colleagues from across UK and international broadcasters and suppliers can learn, share and network.
“Our committee of industry professionals is busy working on this year’s programme, so please get in touch if you have an idea for a topic or speaker. Enjoy watching last year’s videos for a bit of inspiration in the meantime!”
Find out more on the Radio TechCon website. […]

Davina McCall is to co-host on Heart Breakfast while Amanda Holden takes time off to film a TV show.

She will co-host with Jamie Theakston from Monday 10th to Friday 21st of June.
Davina says: “I’m so excited to be stepping in for Amanda to guest host Heart Breakfast. I’ve known Jamie for forever, so this isn’t going to be like work, more like a two-week playdate!
“I love listening to Heart, on the train, at home, anywhere really! I can’t wait to get into the Heart studios and play all the best feel-good music for you all!”
Amanda Holden will return to Heart Breakfast on Monday 24th June. […]

Magic Breakfast co-host Ronan Keating is leaving the show after seven years on-air at the Bauer station.

Ronan made the announcement on the show this morning, saying he’s going to get back to concentrating on his music.
He said: “It’s been very difficult to come to this decision. I have loved every single minute and this has not been an easy decision at all.
“It was an honour to be in people’s homes, but I’ve missed doing the school run and waking up with my wife in the morning!”
He went on to thank all his producers and show team past and present and big up his co-host Harriet as a radio legend.
His last show will be on 31st July, but he’ll still host ad-hoc shows in the future, including weekends throughout August.
Harriet Scott will remain on the show and a new co-host will be announced in the coming weeks. […]

A website offering the ability to manage live reads, show planning, schedules and artist information has been released with added AI.

Radio Prep, which offers a free plan as well as a premium service, uses AI to help presenters and producers generate talk topics and music look ups.
Features include managing station reads, displaying news feeds, show planners, schedules, listener generation, talk-up ideas and winner selections.
Radio Prep is the brainchild of industry veteran Matt James, whose 25 years of experience with Global Radio, Disney, and Nickelodeon have culminated in this new software.
Since its conception in 2006 and subsequent Radio Academy Award win over BBC Radio 1 in 2007, Radio Prep has been rebuilt to empower stations and presenters with unparalleled content creation tools.
There’s an explainer video at radioprep.ai to show what the service can offer. […]