Radio’s Bright Future: From New York to Las Vegas to Cincinnati

September has been a vivid reminder of why I am so optimistic about radio’s future. In the span of just a few weeks, I had the opportunity to attend The Barrett Bash in New York, travel to Las Vegas for the iHeartRadio Music Festival, and return home to Cincinnati where I can tune in to the latest episodes of WKRQ’s Women In Charge podcast series. Each of these experiences reinforces what we at Point-To-Point Marketing already know: radio is not only alive, it is thriving in new and innovative ways.

The Barrett Bash: A Hub of Energy and Leadership

The Barrett Bash on September 4, 2025, was a tremendous success, bringing together leaders from across the radio industry in a way that was both celebratory and forward-looking. Hosted by Barrett Media, the event showcased the unique role that gatherings like this play in uniting executives, programmers, talent, and marketers who are all committed to advancing audio’s future.

What made this year’s Barrett Bash particularly powerful was the sense of energy in the room. Leaders from major groups, local stations, and independent voices all came together not only to reconnect, but to share ideas, successes, and challenges. The conversations underscored the resilience of the radio industry at a time when media is changing rapidly, and highlighted the ongoing need for collaboration. The presence of so many influential executives reinforced Barrett Media’s position as a central hub where the industry comes to both celebrate and strategize.

For us at Point-To-Point Marketing, the event also reaffirmed why we value our ongoing support of Barrett Media. Our partnership with Jason Barrett and Stephanie Eads continues to be a highlight, as we share the same passion for helping the industry grow and thrive. Their commitment to bringing people together and spotlighting innovation is directly aligned with our mission to drive audience development and deliver measurable results for media brands.

The Barrett Bash was more than just a social event, it was a clear signal of optimism and determination to keep radio evolving. It created space for meaningful networking, sparked new partnerships, and reminded everyone that when the industry comes together, we build momentum that carries well beyond one night in September.

The iHeartRadio Music Festival: Scale and Spectacle

From New York, I traveled to Las Vegas for one of the largest celebrations of radio’s national reach: the iHeartRadio Music Festival. Held September 19 & 20 at T-Mobile Arena, the festival once again proved that radio brands have the power to deliver unforgettable experiences for fans while creating immense value for sponsors.

Capital One, the presenting sponsor, demonstrated how smart partnerships can elevate both the customer and the brand. Capital One cardholders received priority presale access and Access Pass perks that included exclusive pre-show parties with artists like LL COOL J and Jelly Roll. Those experiences transformed financial services into lifestyle moments, reinforcing loyalty through unforgettable memories.

Other sponsors also benefitted from the festival’s scale and reach. Hyundai, Audible, M&M’s, Arm & Hammer Power Sheets, and belVita all connected with highly engaged music fans not only in Las Vegas, but across the country through broadcast, digital, and streaming on Hulu. These integrations showed that radio events are more than concerts, they are powerful marketing platforms that bridge live entertainment and national media distribution.

For listeners, the iHeartRadio Music Festival was pure magic. The lineup featured marquee acts including Ed Sheeran, Maroon 5, Mariah Carey, Tim McGraw, LL COOL J, and The Offspring, ensuring there was something for every taste. Fans in the arena were treated to once-in-a-lifetime performances, while those watching on Hulu or listening on iHeart stations across more than 150 markets still felt connected to the excitement. The festival is proof that radio’s national brands can create cultural moments that rival any other medium in entertainment.

WKRQ’s Women In Charge: Local Storytelling with Real Impact

Back home in Cincinnati, my optimism for radio’s future continues every time I hear WKRQ’s Women In Charge podcast. Q102 has always been more than a playlist, it has become a trusted voice and brand ambassador for our city. This series exemplifies how local radio can weave its way into community life while delivering compelling content listeners want.

What makes Women In Charge special is its focus on women in the Cincinnati area who are making an impact as leaders, entrepreneurs, and community builders. Renée Schuler, for example, shared her journey in food and hospitality, from founding Eat Well Celebrations and Feasts to acquiring Jeff Thomas Catering, even reminiscing about her experience cooking for Martha Stewart. Kristen Meyers, Vice President of Communications and Marketing for the Cincinnati Reds, spoke about the creativity required to promote 81 home games and how she keeps her team motivated. Dr. Mona Foad of MONA Dermatology revealed her path from art history to medicine and encouraged other women to “believe in yourself” when pursuing business dreams. Erin Satzger, President and CEO of the Northern Cincinnati Foundation, reflected on leading with authenticity and staying true to her values.

Each story builds a deeper connection between the station and its audience, while simultaneously giving local businesses and leaders a platform they might not otherwise have. The authenticity of the storytelling resonates with listeners, creating engagement that extends far beyond music programming. This is radio at its best, amplifying community voices, sparking conversations, and strengthening loyalty.

Why It All Matters

Taken together, these three experiences illustrate why Point-To-Point Marketing is so bullish on radio’s future. From the industry leadership on display at The Barrett Bash, to the scale and sponsorship power of the iHeartRadio Music Festival, to the local authenticity of WKRQ’s Women In Charge, radio continues to prove its relevance, adaptability, and ability to connect in meaningful ways.

Radio thrives because it operates on multiple levels: it can deliver national spectacle while staying deeply local, it can drive sponsor value while building listener loyalty, and it can evolve across platforms while holding onto the personal, authentic qualities that have always made it special.

At Point-To-Point Marketing, we are proud to be part of this journey. Our work is about helping audio brands, from broadcasters to podcasters to local stations and events, grow their audiences and strengthen their business models. The stories and events I experienced last month only deepen my conviction that radio’s best days are ahead.

Contact info: Tim Bronsil: tim@ptpmarketing.com, 513.702.5072