Dec 2, 2024 | Digital Media and Technology, Industry Press Highlights Executive Summary: X, formerly known as Twitter, has launched new labels for parody and fan...

Nearly half (49%) of Gen Z consumers are significantly more likely to pay attention to advertisements that incorporate humor or music they enjoy, presenting a major opportunity for local media sales teams and advertising agencies. Local advertisers have unique advantages in this space because they can tap into hyperlocal references, community inside jokes, and regional musical preferences that create authentic connections with Gen Z audiences. The key to success lies in creating "snackable, scroll-stopping creative" that feels genuine rather than trying too hard, while leveraging local radio stations' music expertise and community knowledge to craft memorable campaigns. With Gen Z's top concern being the economy, local businesses can address these worries through entertaining, music-forward campaigns that position them as accessible solutions while building long-term brand relationships.

Every season has its attractions and unique vibe, but the summer is particularly appealing. Nature is alive and green and the sun is warm, providing the perfect landscape and climate for endless fun, family gatherings and opportunities to relax and drain some stress and anxiety from our complex, busy lives. Some might think watching TV is the antithesis of summer compared to being physically active, enjoying the abundance...

You’ve got questions and we’ve got answers. Hi, I’m Kevin Eikenberry, answering the questions that new leaders ask us. Actually, it’s our goal to help all leaders be more productive, successful, and confident. Today, I am answering a question about how much leaders talk. Are you ready? Let’s get started. Lots of leaders have asked me this question: Kevin. Am I talking too much?

Understanding how different generations consume media and interact with advertising is critical for local media sales success. A recent pair of studies reveal that Gen Z favors social media and interactive content, while Baby Boomers rely on websites, reviews, and informative messaging. Gen Z still values email—particularly in professional settings—but with different expectations than older cohorts. For local media sellers, tailoring content formats and advertising strategies to each generation's preferences is key to boosting engagement and driving ad revenue.

Consumers plan to spend an average of $890.49 this holiday season—the second-highest level in 23 years—despite concerns about tariffs and rising prices. About $628 will go toward gifts, showing budgets remain strong even as shoppers grow more value-conscious. While 42% begin browsing before November, 63% plan to buy mainly over Thanksgiving weekend, with 60% finishing in December. Online leads all channels (55%), followed by grocery, department, and discount stores, underscoring the need for integrated digital and local strategies. For local media and agencies, success will hinge on value-driven, well-timed, and locally relevant campaigns that blend digital precision with community connection.

Weekly Newsletter April 13, 2026

Kick off the week strong with these must-run co-op campaigns your customers will be excited to promote!
• Bring Beauty to Every Room With Benjamin Moore! — Inspire fresh spaces with premium paints and colors that transform any home.
• Poolife Pool Opening Deals! — Help customers get pool-ready with essential supplies and seasonal savings.
• The Lincoln Spring Sales Event! — Elevate the driving experience with luxury offers on Lincoln vehicles.
• Kuhn North America’s Spring Savings! — Equip for the season ahead with dependable agricultural equipment and strong savings.
• Winchester Super X Pump Turkey Rebate! — Gear up for the season with trusted performance and limited-time rebates.
• Book a Culligan In-Home Water Test Save! — Promote cleaner, better-tasting water with convenient in-home testing and savings.
• Generac Spring Sales Event! — Stay prepared with reliable power solutions and special spring offers.

Some leaders tend to minimize or sugarcoat the truth during a crisis because they don’t want their employees or customers to worry or too stressed out to function. During a crisis, it’s often necessary for your business to continue to operating, even if on a limited basis. It is also possible, in fact, probable that you are operating with incomplete or conflicting information. “However, the worst thing you can do is deny, deceive, or deflect — this opens the door to rumors and distractions.

Radio was the first broadcast medium. Despite the growing popularity of TV during the 1950s, radio was able to thrive. Thanks to the invention of the transistor and small portable radios, teenagers made the medium essential to their lifestyles. Today, digital technologies challenge radio and TV. Just as the TV audience has fragmented, music streaming services, podcasts and a variety of audio devices have done the same to radio.

When you are building a sales force or a sales team, you will hire people that have been trained by other sales organizations. The range of different sales training will go from no training to a one-day sales training to a professional level of training that included a development plan and coaching. One of the challenges of achieving your sales goals is the variation of competencies and skills across your sales force.

Fuel your week with these can’t-miss co-op deals!

• Hustler Super Z Spotlight Sales Event! — Take your lawn care to the next level! Enjoy special pricing on Hustler Super Z mowers this week.
• Solve Hard Water Hassles With Culligan! — Cleaner water, easier life! Explore Culligan’s solutions to tackle hard water in your home.
• Serta Presidents Day Sale! — Sleep like royalty! Don’t miss exclusive Presidents Day savings on Serta mattresses.

William Randolph Hearst revolutionized American media by transforming newspapers into powerful tools of influence, starting with the San Francisco Examiner and expanding into a national empire. His bold, sensationalist style—often controversial—captivated readers and reshaped journalism, while his leadership blended visionary ambition with hands-on editorial control. Hearst overcame fierce competition, financial crises, and public scrutiny by diversifying into magazines, radio, and film, demonstrating adaptability and strategic foresight. His marketing genius lay in emotional storytelling, audience-first content, and cross-platform branding—lessons that remain vital for today’s media sales professionals. Hearst’s legacy is a testament to the power of bold ideas, relentless innovation, and the enduring impact of compelling narratives.

Micromanagement. We have all experienced it – and if you are a leader, you have mostly likely done it. Yet no one ever says that great leaders are micromanagers. If it isn’t effective and we don’t like it done to us, why do we micromanage? Not all the items on this list will affect or afflict all leaders in the same way, but all are among the reasons why we take over, step in, or “try to help.”