{"version":"https://jsonfeed.org/version/1","title":"Radio Consultant-Gary Berkowitz AC Radio Programming Consultants-Ratings Improvement-Radio Consulting-Radio Consultants-Adult Contemporary Radio - Media Consultant","home_page_url":"https://garyberk.com","description":"Radio Consultant-Gary Berkowitz AC Radio Programming Consultants-Ratings Improvement-Radio Consulting-Radio Consultants-Adult Contemporary Radio - Media Consultant","author":{"name":"Radio Consultant-Gary Berkowitz AC Radio Programming Consultants-Ratings Improvement-Radio Consulting-Radio Consultants-Adult Contemporary Radio - Media Consultant"},"items":[{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/forget-the-logo-fix-the-programming","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Radio%20Myths%20Part%20Two.png\"/><p>Last week I wrote about the language listeners actually use. This week, let's talk about something else radio people often get wrong.</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/forget-the-logo-fix-the-programming","title":"Forget The Logo. Fix the Programming!","summary":"Last week I wrote about the language listeners actually use. This week, let's talk about something else radio people often get wrong.","date_modified":"2026-06-30T17:28:20Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/i-said-it-in-2020-heres-where-we-are-in-2026","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/2020%20vs%202026--changes%20graphic.png\"/><p>Has a lot changed in just six years? Absolutely. Technology has seen massive upward swings. Back in 2020, \"AI\" wasn't even a whisper in most programming offices, and apps were often seen as something for the \"geeks\" to w...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/i-said-it-in-2020-heres-where-we-are-in-2026","title":"I Said it in 2020. Here's Where We Are in 2026","summary":"Has a lot changed in just six years? Absolutely. Technology has seen massive upward swings. Back in 2020, \"AI\" wasn't even a whisper in most programming offices, and apps were often seen as something for the \"geeks\" to w...","date_modified":"2026-06-24T13:40:48Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/radio-myths-programmers-still-believe","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Radio%20Myths%20Graphic.png\"/><p>After more than four decades in radio programming and consulting, I've learned that some of the things programmers worry about most are things listeners rarely think about at all.</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/radio-myths-programmers-still-believe","title":"Radio Myths Programmers Still Believe","summary":"After more than four decades in radio programming and consulting, I've learned that some of the things programmers worry about most are things listeners rarely think about at all.","date_modified":"2026-06-24T13:39:14Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/be-local-dont-kill-format","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Be%20Local%20Graphic%206-2026.png\"/><p>Being local has always mattered.</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/be-local-dont-kill-format","title":"Be Local & Don't Kill Format! ","summary":"Being local has always mattered.","date_modified":"2026-06-02T15:13:55Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/the-wrecking-crew-model-major-market-sound-for-less","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Carol%20Kaye%20Graphic.png\"/><p>Last week’s newsletter sparked a lot of response, and one thing was clear: you care as much about music history as you do about programming. The most common note I received wasn’t about strategy or ratings; it was this: ...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/the-wrecking-crew-model-major-market-sound-for-less","title":"The Wrecking Crew Model: Major Market Sound for Less.","summary":"Last week’s newsletter sparked a lot of response, and one thing was clear: you care as much about music history as you do about programming. The most common note I received wasn’t about strategy or ratings; it was this: ...","date_modified":"2026-04-28T15:54:28Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/programming-leadership-as-seen-in-radio-ink","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Radio%20ink%20Leadership.png\"/><p>#Radio Programming</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/programming-leadership-as-seen-in-radio-ink","title":"Programming Leadership. As seen in Radio Ink. ","summary":"#Radio Programming","date_modified":"2026-04-26T14:27:42Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/the-wrecking-crew-model-and-your-station","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Wrecking%20Crew%20Graphic.png\"/><p>Last week, I wrote about the magic Rick Sklar created at WABC. We talked about how the secret sauce was not the processing or the contests. It was the on-air people. Sklar knew that radio wins when personalities connect,...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/the-wrecking-crew-model-and-your-station","title":"The Wrecking Crew Model and Your Station!","summary":"Last week, I wrote about the magic Rick Sklar created at WABC. We talked about how the secret sauce was not the processing or the contests. It was the on-air people. Sklar knew that radio wins when personalities connect,...","date_modified":"2026-04-22T14:51:04Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/companionship-wins-everytime-advice-from-wabc-and-rick-sklar","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Why%20Companship%20Wins%20Graphic.png\"/><p>There is a lot of noise in radio land right now. Between streaming algorithms, endless podcasts, and the looming shadow of AI, it is easy to get distracted by the shiny new toys. But we need to keep our eye on the ball. ...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/companionship-wins-everytime-advice-from-wabc-and-rick-sklar","title":"Companionship Wins Everytime. Advice from WABC and Rick Sklar. ","summary":"There is a lot of noise in radio land right now. Between streaming algorithms, endless podcasts, and the looming shadow of AI, it is easy to get distracted by the shiny new toys. But we need to keep our eye on the ball. ...","date_modified":"2026-04-15T18:59:37Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/brilliant-with-the-basics-part-two","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Brilliant%20%20with%20the%20basics%20part%20two%20graphic.png\"/><p>Last week, we covered music, morning shows, and branding. I also promised to reveal the one mistake almost every station makes during a book. We’re getting to that but first, if you want to win, you have to be brilliant ...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/brilliant-with-the-basics-part-two","title":"Brilliant with the Basics Part Two","summary":"Last week, we covered music, morning shows, and branding. I also promised to reveal the one mistake almost every station makes during a book. We’re getting to that but first, if you want to win, you have to be brilliant ...","date_modified":"2026-04-07T18:44:13Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/get-ready-for-spring","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Brilliant%20with%20basics%20graphic.png\"/><p>Be brilliant with the basics.</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/get-ready-for-spring","title":"Get Ready for Spring!","summary":"Be brilliant with the basics.","date_modified":"2026-04-02T19:27:14Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/the-stream-is-your-station","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Streaming%20Graphic.png\"/><p>Six things every broadcaster must do right now to survive, and thrive, in radio's digital-first future.</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/the-stream-is-your-station","title":"The Stream is your Station","summary":"Six things every broadcaster must do right now to survive, and thrive, in radio's digital-first future.","date_modified":"2026-03-11T14:47:06Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/10-common-traits-of-winning-ac-stations-2","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/ac-stations-header.png\"/><p>Have you ever looked at the ratings and wondered: How do certain AC's always come out on top? There's a reason. Do a \"programming x-ray\" on the most successful and consistently high-rated AC stations, and you quickly see...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/10-common-traits-of-winning-ac-stations-2","title":"10 Common Traits of Winning AC Stations","summary":"Have you ever looked at the ratings and wondered: How do certain AC's always come out on top? There's a reason. Do a \"programming x-ray\" on the most successful and consistently high-rated AC stations, and you quickly see...","date_modified":"2026-01-27T17:09:09Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/why-now-is-the-time-to-market-your-station","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Marketing%20Now.png\"/><p>While your competitors cut budgets and go silent, you have a rare opening. The stations that market aggressively right now won’t just survive the downturn, they’ll own the next decade.</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/why-now-is-the-time-to-market-your-station","title":"Why NOW is the Time to Market Your Station","summary":"While your competitors cut budgets and go silent, you have a rare opening. The stations that market aggressively right now won’t just survive the downturn, they’ll own the next decade.","date_modified":"2026-01-20T19:16:58Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/as-seen-in-radio-ink-magazine","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Berkowitz%20December.png\"/><p>\"SOMETHING IS NOT RIGHT\"</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/as-seen-in-radio-ink-magazine","title":"As Seen in Radio Ink Magazine","summary":"\"SOMETHING IS NOT RIGHT\"","date_modified":"2026-01-14T21:51:51Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/pd-resolutions-for-the-new-year","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Copilot_20260106_140437.png\"/><p>The start of a new year is a good time to step back and refocus on what actually moves the needle. None of this is revolutionary, these are fundamentals that consistently make stations sound better and perform better.</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/pd-resolutions-for-the-new-year","title":"PD RESOLUTIONS FOR THE NEW YEAR","summary":"The start of a new year is a good time to step back and refocus on what actually moves the needle. None of this is revolutionary, these are fundamentals that consistently make stations sound better and perform better.","date_modified":"2026-01-06T20:23:56Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/a-consultant%E2%80%99s-letter-to-the-north-pole","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Gary%20Santa.jpg\"/><p>Another year of Adult Contemporary radio is in the books. We’ve played 'Last Christmas' about 4,000 times, and the office presets are locked in. But if Santa is looking for some last-minute gift ideas for my client stati...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/a-consultant%E2%80%99s-letter-to-the-north-pole","title":"A Consultant’s Letter to the North Pole","summary":"Another year of Adult Contemporary radio is in the books. We’ve played 'Last Christmas' about 4,000 times, and the office presets are locked in. But if Santa is looking for some last-minute gift ideas for my client stati...","date_modified":"2025-12-17T20:54:23Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/radio-like-it-should-be-as-seen-in-radio-ink","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Berkowitz%20August.png\"/><p></p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/radio-like-it-should-be-as-seen-in-radio-ink","title":"Radio. Like it should be. As seen in Radio Ink. ","date_modified":"2025-12-04T20:31:59Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/don%E2%80%99t-rush-the-season-when-to-tell-your-listeners-whats-next","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/ChatGPT%20Image%20Nov%2030%2C%202025%2C%2010_19_23%20AM-Christ.png\"/><p>If you're a PD, you know the feeling. You go all-Christmas and within 24 hours you feel it. Everyone is listening. Sure, you get a few complaints, but most people are happy and in the spirit. The station feels alive, and...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/don%E2%80%99t-rush-the-season-when-to-tell-your-listeners-whats-next","title":"Don’t Rush the Season: When to Tell Your Listeners What's Next","summary":"If you're a PD, you know the feeling. You go all-Christmas and within 24 hours you feel it. Everyone is listening. Sure, you get a few complaints, but most people are happy and in the spirit. The station feels alive, and...","date_modified":"2025-12-01T15:35:36Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/the-one-thing-that-can-derail-your-christmas-programming","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/ChatGPT%20Image%20Nov%2017%2C%202025%2C%2012_58_01%20PM.png\"/><p>Every year, the pattern is the same. You flip the switch to Christmas music and the reaction is off the charts. Ratings spike. Social media lights up. Sales is thrilled. Then, a few days in, the familiar comment pops up,...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/the-one-thing-that-can-derail-your-christmas-programming","title":"The One Thing That Can Derail Your Christmas Programming","summary":"Every year, the pattern is the same. You flip the switch to Christmas music and the reaction is off the charts. Ratings spike. Social media lights up. Sales is thrilled. Then, a few days in, the familiar comment pops up,...","date_modified":"2025-11-17T18:40:49Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/youre-in-an-unrated-market-should-you-go-all-christmas","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/unrated%20Xmas%20with%20no%20Text.png\"/><p>If you're in an unrated market, the holiday season opens up a world of programming possibilities. With no ratings pressure, you're free to experiment, connect emotionally with your audience, and build brand equity. But s...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/youre-in-an-unrated-market-should-you-go-all-christmas","title":"You're in an Unrated Market: Should You Go All Christmas?","summary":"If you're in an unrated market, the holiday season opens up a world of programming possibilities. With no ratings pressure, you're free to experiment, connect emotionally with your audience, and build brand equity. But s...","date_modified":"2025-11-06T18:55:57Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/programmers-to-the-rescue","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/ChatGPT%20Image%20Oct%2021%2C%202025%2C%2001_22_56%20PM.png\"/><p>Not a day goes by where I don’t hear about people losing their jobs, programming cutbacks, or stations struggling to meet budget. Revenues are down drastically, and it’s not an isolated issue. It’s everywhere.</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/programmers-to-the-rescue","title":"Programmers to the Rescue...","summary":"Not a day goes by where I don’t hear about people losing their jobs, programming cutbacks, or stations struggling to meet budget. Revenues are down drastically, and it’s not an isolated issue. It’s everywhere.","date_modified":"2025-10-23T14:39:40Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/fall-2025-7-steps-to-a-better-book","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/September%20newsletter.png\"/><p>With the fall book underway and year-round PPM measurement always in play, this is the time to tighten things up. Here are 8 smart programming moves that will help your station perform at its best this fall:</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/fall-2025-7-steps-to-a-better-book","title":"8 Smart Programming Moves to Win This Fall","summary":"With the fall book underway and year-round PPM measurement always in play, this is the time to tighten things up. Here are 8 smart programming moves that will help your station perform at its best this fall:","date_modified":"2025-09-09T16:27:45Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/programming-for-ratings-is-not-enough-anymore","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Newsletter%20pic.png\"/><p>For decades, programming success was measured by one thing: ratings. Get them up, and everything else would follow, revenue, reputation, job security. But in 2025, that’s no longer enough. We need to face a hard truth: r...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/programming-for-ratings-is-not-enough-anymore","title":"Programming for Ratings is Not Enough Anymore...","summary":"For decades, programming success was measured by one thing: ratings. Get them up, and everything else would follow, revenue, reputation, job security. But in 2025, that’s no longer enough. We need to face a hard truth: r...","date_modified":"2025-08-25T14:03:53Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/why-%E2%80%9Ccommercial-free-hours%E2%80%9D-are-still-a-smart-play-for-radio","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/CM%20Free.jfif\"/><p>In a world where Spotify, Apple Music, and other streaming platforms offer endless music with minimal interruption, traditional radio has to work harder to earn every quarter hour. That’s why “commercial-free hours” are ...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/why-%E2%80%9Ccommercial-free-hours%E2%80%9D-are-still-a-smart-play-for-radio","title":"Why “Commercial-Free Hours” Are Still a Smart Play for Radio","summary":"In a world where Spotify, Apple Music, and other streaming platforms offer endless music with minimal interruption, traditional radio has to work harder to earn every quarter hour. That’s why “commercial-free hours” are ...","date_modified":"2025-07-15T13:39:41Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/take-2-aspirin-call-me-in-the-morning","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/stock/yDGQw7w\"/><p>I don’t know about you but growing up my mother always told me to be a “professional man” A doctor, a lawyer, a dentist. When she heard I wanted to go into radio (a very foreign idea to her) there was a bit of disappoint...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/take-2-aspirin-call-me-in-the-morning","title":"Take 2 Aspirin & call me in the morning! ","summary":"I don’t know about you but growing up my mother always told me to be a “professional man” A doctor, a lawyer, a dentist. When she heard I wanted to go into radio (a very foreign idea to her) there was a bit of disappoint...","date_modified":"2025-06-25T14:08:51Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/the-future-program-director-will-have-these-qualities-1","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/download-0325e7d.jfif\"/><p>If you’re wondering what radio might look like (or sound like) in the future, just look at the leaders who will be shaping it, the programmers. So, what will the future PD look like? Maybe similar to todays, but then, ma...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/the-future-program-director-will-have-these-qualities-1","title":"The Future Program Director will have these qualities","summary":"If you’re wondering what radio might look like (or sound like) in the future, just look at the leaders who will be shaping it, the programmers. So, what will the future PD look like? Maybe similar to todays, but then, ma...","date_modified":"2025-06-17T18:47:03Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/common-tactics-of-winning-ac-stations","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Tactics%20of%20success.jfif\"/><p> Ever wonder how certain AC stations always seem to land at the top of the ratings? It’s not luck. There’s a clear playbook. Take a close look—do a “programming x-ray”—on the most consistently successful ACs and you’ll s...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/common-tactics-of-winning-ac-stations","title":"Common Tactics of Winning AC Stations. ","summary":" Ever wonder how certain AC stations always seem to land at the top of the ratings? It’s not luck. There’s a clear playbook. Take a close look—do a “programming x-ray”—on the most consistently successful ACs and you’ll s...","date_modified":"2025-05-28T17:26:00Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/how-programming-sales-work-together","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Berkowitz_May_2025.png\"/><p></p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/how-programming-sales-work-together","title":"How Programming & Sales Work Together (from Radio Ink)","date_modified":"2025-05-06T19:39:55Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/what-would-ac-radio-sound-like-without-ratings","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/hartford%20ratings.jpg\"/><p>Yes, I make a living helping AC and Classic Hits stations get better ratings, but just for a moment… let’s imagine life without the ratings.</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/what-would-ac-radio-sound-like-without-ratings","title":"What would AC radio sound like without ratings? ","summary":"Yes, I make a living helping AC and Classic Hits stations get better ratings, but just for a moment… let’s imagine life without the ratings.","date_modified":"2025-04-29T19:35:06Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/5-things-that-will-make-a-big-difference-this-spring","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/download-dce0197.png\"/><p>By the end of this week, every rated market in the US will be in a rating period. Small adjustments can significantly enhance your performance and listener engagement. Here are five impactful strategies to boost your rad...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/5-things-that-will-make-a-big-difference-this-spring","title":"5 Things That Will Make a Big Difference this Spring ","summary":"By the end of this week, every rated market in the US will be in a rating period. Small adjustments can significantly enhance your performance and listener engagement. Here are five impactful strategies to boost your rad...","date_modified":"2025-04-01T17:51:08Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/revitalize-revenue-preserve-your-radio-stations-soul","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Space%20travel.jpg\"/><p>Houston, We've Got a Problem: Radio isn't dying—it's facing a revenue challenge. As digital platforms expand their reach, many broadcasters have responded by gutting what makes radio special. This short-sighted strategy ...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/revitalize-revenue-preserve-your-radio-stations-soul","title":"Revitalize Revenue, Preserve Your Radio Stations' Soul","summary":"Houston, We've Got a Problem: Radio isn't dying—it's facing a revenue challenge. As digital platforms expand their reach, many broadcasters have responded by gutting what makes radio special. This short-sighted strategy ...","date_modified":"2025-03-18T18:32:44Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/stop-sabotaging-your-station-5-streaming-mistakes-to-avoid","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/stock/KpRwxo5\"/><p>The radio landscape has irrevocably shifted. While over-the-air remains a staple, your digital stream is no longer a \"nice-to-have\"—it's a lifeline. Fail to treat it as such, and you're actively pushing listeners into th...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/stop-sabotaging-your-station-5-streaming-mistakes-to-avoid","title":"Stop Sabotaging Your Station: 5 Streaming Mistakes to Avoid","summary":"The radio landscape has irrevocably shifted. While over-the-air remains a staple, your digital stream is no longer a \"nice-to-have\"—it's a lifeline. Fail to treat it as such, and you're actively pushing listeners into th...","date_modified":"2025-03-04T15:08:07Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/program-directors-looking-back-looking-ahead","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/images-0002.jpg\"/><p>We’ve all heard the line, “Radio used to be better back in the day.” While that may or may not be true, being a Program Director sure has changed. </p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/program-directors-looking-back-looking-ahead","title":"Program Directors: Looking Back, Looking Ahead","summary":"We’ve all heard the line, “Radio used to be better back in the day.” While that may or may not be true, being a Program Director sure has changed. ","date_modified":"2025-01-15T18:28:22Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/celebrate-halloween-for-a-week","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Halloween%202.jfif\"/><p>For many years, radio featured Halloween hits on October 31st only.  Since Halloween has become one of the biggest and most celebrated holidays of the year, plus, its estimated that American’s will spend 11.6 BILLION thi...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/celebrate-halloween-for-a-week","title":"Celebrate Halloween for a week! ","summary":"For many years, radio featured Halloween hits on October 31st only.  Since Halloween has become one of the biggest and most celebrated holidays of the year, plus, its estimated that American’s will spend 11.6 BILLION thi...","date_modified":"2024-10-01T13:41:33Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/we-need-a-plan-things-happen-after-hours","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/granato%20pic%20pitts.jpg\"/><p>This past Saturday’s attempted assassination of Donald Trump clearly showed off radio’s weakness. The lack of resources to handle an emergency in off hours. I was watching cable news and saw it happen firsthand. </p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/we-need-a-plan-things-happen-after-hours","title":"We Need a Plan: Things happen after hours","summary":"This past Saturday’s attempted assassination of Donald Trump clearly showed off radio’s weakness. The lack of resources to handle an emergency in off hours. I was watching cable news and saw it happen firsthand. ","date_modified":"2024-07-17T15:57:31Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/email-your-new-secret-weapon-as-seen-in-radio-ink","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/blob-1eeecc4.png\"/><p>I remember when I got my first PD gig at PRO-FM in Providence, I asked my then GM, Warren Potash, what our marketing budget was. He looked at me, and without hesitation said “$200.00.” That’s right. $200.00. Being a newb...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/email-your-new-secret-weapon-as-seen-in-radio-ink","title":"Email: Your new secret weapon (as seen in Radio Ink)","summary":"I remember when I got my first PD gig at PRO-FM in Providence, I asked my then GM, Warren Potash, what our marketing budget was. He looked at me, and without hesitation said “$200.00.” That’s right. $200.00. Being a newb...","date_modified":"2024-03-18T21:45:59Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/summer-programmingdigital-tune-up-basics","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/stock/2\"/><p>The most important click on your website (and app): LISTEN LIVE. You’d be shocked at how hard that is to find on many radio sites. Same goes for your app. </p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/summer-programmingdigital-tune-up-basics","title":"Summer Programming/Digital Tune-up: Basics ","summary":"The most important click on your website (and app): LISTEN LIVE. You’d be shocked at how hard that is to find on many radio sites. Same goes for your app. ","date_modified":"2023-07-25T17:36:55Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/say-no-to-special-weekends-and-whats-pizza-got-to-do-with-it","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/stock/2987\"/><p>A reason to say no to theme weekends….</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/say-no-to-special-weekends-and-whats-pizza-got-to-do-with-it","title":"Say no to special weekends and what's pizza got to do with it?","summary":"A reason to say no to theme weekends….","date_modified":"2023-05-08T23:54:30Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/wenja-get-in","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/download-66915e5.png\"/><p>As seen in Radio Ink- </p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/wenja-get-in","title":"Wenja Get In? ","summary":"As seen in Radio Ink- ","date_modified":"2023-04-17T19:37:09Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/my-plan-to-reduce-units-and-grow-revenue","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/stock/6313\"/><p>Let me start by saying I am not a radio sales expert. As a long-time programmer, I like commercials. They are helpful to listeners, keeping them aware of products and services they use and need. They add to a station’s p...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/my-plan-to-reduce-units-and-grow-revenue","title":"My plan to reduce units and grow revenue","summary":"Let me start by saying I am not a radio sales expert. As a long-time programmer, I like commercials. They are helpful to listeners, keeping them aware of products and services they use and need. They add to a station’s p...","date_modified":"2023-04-05T14:48:41Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/programming-resolutions-for-the-new-year","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/download-0f7ff54.jpg\"/><p>The new year is a great time to go through the station and make sure all of the basics and strategies are in place. Here are my top elements to review.  </p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/programming-resolutions-for-the-new-year","title":"Programming Resolutions for the New Year","summary":"The new year is a great time to go through the station and make sure all of the basics and strategies are in place. Here are my top elements to review.  ","date_modified":"2023-01-04T18:36:13Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/the-future-program-director-will-have-these-qualities","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/png-transparent-future-miscellaneous-angle-tex.png\"/><p>If you’re wondering what radio might look like (or sound like) in the future, just look at the leaders who will be shaping it, the programmers. So, what will the future PD look like? Maybe similar to todays, but then, ma...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/the-future-program-director-will-have-these-qualities","title":"The Future Program Director Will Have These Qualities ","summary":"If you’re wondering what radio might look like (or sound like) in the future, just look at the leaders who will be shaping it, the programmers. So, what will the future PD look like? Maybe similar to todays, but then, ma...","date_modified":"2022-11-16T14:34:35Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/what-you-listeners-really-think","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/images-0002.jpg\"/><p>Have you noticed that we (radio people) can spend hours discussing and debating programming issues? Listeners, on the other hand, have no problem boiling it down to a few words to describe how they feel. From the many fo...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/what-you-listeners-really-think","title":"What your listeners really think","summary":"Have you noticed that we (radio people) can spend hours discussing and debating programming issues? Listeners, on the other hand, have no problem boiling it down to a few words to describe how they feel. From the many fo...","date_modified":"2022-09-26T20:18:52Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/5-things-that-matter-with-ac-radio-today","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/Today.jpg\"/><p>Radio is not all that complicated. It should be easy, simple and of course, fun. In this edition, we look at 5 things that are important within AC radio today. Basic and simple. A 60 second read that could change your st...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/5-things-that-matter-with-ac-radio-today","title":"5 things that matter with AC radio today","summary":"Radio is not all that complicated. It should be easy, simple and of course, fun. In this edition, we look at 5 things that are important within AC radio today. Basic and simple. A 60 second read that could change your st...","date_modified":"2022-08-17T18:52:45Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/local-may-not-be-your-salvation-1","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/stock/854\"/><p>Maybe you've heard the line; \"We'll win cause we're local.\" Some radio folks believe that. I believe that yes, local is important, but more important is \"being good.\" The story below may change your thinking.    </p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/local-may-not-be-your-salvation-1","title":"\"Local\" may not be your salvation...","summary":"Maybe you've heard the line; \"We'll win cause we're local.\" Some radio folks believe that. I believe that yes, local is important, but more important is \"being good.\" The story below may change your thinking.    ","date_modified":"2022-07-19T17:24:54Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/turn-summer-promotions-into-cume-and-p1-building-events","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/stock/D1roeoa\"/><p>With summer here, there is a good chance you will be doing many outdoor promotions where you will get to be with current and potential listeners. Here are a few ideas you can easily implement to turn these into effective...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/turn-summer-promotions-into-cume-and-p1-building-events","title":"TURN SUMMER PROMOTIONS INTO CUME AND P1 BUILDING EVENTS","summary":"With summer here, there is a good chance you will be doing many outdoor promotions where you will get to be with current and potential listeners. Here are a few ideas you can easily implement to turn these into effective...","date_modified":"2022-06-28T19:50:25Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/flashback-10-programming-predictions-for-the-next-25-years","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/fortune-telling-4896472_1920.jpg\"/><p>Back in November of 2017, Radio Ink asked for an article about programming predictions for the next 25 years. Well, I just ran across it and thought it would be fun to see how those predictions are coming. My comments fo...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/flashback-10-programming-predictions-for-the-next-25-years","title":"Flashback: 10 Programming Predictions For The Next 25 Years","summary":"Back in November of 2017, Radio Ink asked for an article about programming predictions for the next 25 years. Well, I just ran across it and thought it would be fun to see how those predictions are coming. My comments fo...","date_modified":"2022-06-09T16:03:45Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/r-d-s-is-technology-causing-erosion-to-your-ratings","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/stock/94150\"/><p>I love technology. However, I am concerned we are losing potential recall opportunities (in the diary-based rating system) with certain uses of RDS. If you are using RDS to display title and artist with name, frequency),...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/r-d-s-is-technology-causing-erosion-to-your-ratings","title":"R-D-S: Is technology causing erosion to your ratings?","summary":"I love technology. However, I am concerned we are losing potential recall opportunities (in the diary-based rating system) with certain uses of RDS. If you are using RDS to display title and artist with name, frequency),...","date_modified":"2022-04-12T19:19:41Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/morning-drive-how-to-quickly-improve-your-morning-show-today","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/ip/7cda7bc3-7257-4cf5-b4a7-9e7da4ed1a59/download-0011.jpg\"/><p>With the spring book not far away, please consider these actionable points for a stronger morning show:</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/morning-drive-how-to-quickly-improve-your-morning-show-today","title":"Morning Drive: How to quickly improve your morning show today","summary":"With the spring book not far away, please consider these actionable points for a stronger morning show:","date_modified":"2022-03-22T20:09:03Z"},{"id":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/understanding-how-to-increase-tsl","html_content":"<img src=\"https://img1.wsimg.com/isteam/stock/WbOWBN5\"/><p>Have you ever heard this conversation? Our cume is up but TSL is down...we're too down, we need more new music (wrong) we must suck! Not necessarily. Check out todays AC Programming Today and see how you should react to ...</p>","url":"https://garyberk.com/insights/f/understanding-how-to-increase-tsl","title":"Understanding How to Increase TSL","summary":"Have you ever heard this conversation? Our cume is up but TSL is down...we're too down, we need more new music (wrong) we must suck! Not necessarily. Check out todays AC Programming Today and see how you should react to ...","date_modified":"2022-02-15T14:01:58Z"}]}