10 Most Frequent Questions Radio Industry People Ask Me, Kevin Ross, About Radio in 2025
Radio in 2025 is a wild ride—part legacy medium, part digital disruptor, and all about adaptation. Here’s what I hear most from folks in the trenches, plus my no-nonsense take on how to survive and thrive.
1. How Do I Make Money Online in 2025?
The fundamentals haven’t changed much, but the tools sure have leveled up. You still need a solid passive income base before chasing the shiny stuff. No shortcuts—consistency and passion remain your best friends.
- Leverage AI and automation: Use AI to draft content, automate social media scheduling, and analyze audience data to optimize your efforts.
- Own your platform: Don’t rely solely on Instagram or TikTok. Build your own monetized website, newsletter, or podcast channel where you control the revenue streams.
- Monetize smartly: Google AdSense, affiliate marketing, and creator economy platforms like Patreon or Substack can provide steady income.
- Apps and mobile-first: Mobile apps still offer passive income opportunities, but expect upfront investment and ongoing maintenance.
In 2025, creators who combine AI tools with genuine passion and diversified income streams are the ones winning.
2. Blogging vs. Social Media for Revenue?
Social media is great for reach but exhausting for sustained revenue without owning your audience. Blogs, newsletters, and websites still offer better control and monetization options through ads and affiliate programs.
Social platforms demand constant trend-chasing and advertiser hustle. My advice: secure your passive income base first, then use social media to amplify your brand and funnel traffic to your owned channels.
3. Building a YouTube Channel in 2025
YouTube is still a powerhouse, but the bar is higher. Professional-grade content, consistent uploads, and savvy marketing are essential. Monetization requires 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the past year, but AI tools can speed up editing and content planning.
Creators who combine creativity with data-driven strategies and community engagement can build sustainable income, often enough to live comfortably within a year.
4. What Is the Future of Radio?
Radio is not dead, but it’s morphing fast. Traditional over-the-air (OTA) radio still holds sway, especially in cars and local markets, but streaming, podcasts, and digital audio platforms are eating its lunch.
Radio ad revenue might dip slightly, but local advertising overall is growing, with radio stations increasingly offering integrated digital campaigns. The key is embracing podcasts, audiobooks, and streaming to stay relevant.
The pandemic accelerated industry shakeups, forcing layoffs and restructuring. If you’re in radio, diversify your income and build digital side hustles. Radio’s strength remains its local trust and immediacy, but innovation is non-negotiable.
5. Should I Look for a Job or Stay Where I Am?
Keep your options open. Radio is a springboard, not a recliner. Set clear goals for each gig and always be scouting for your next move. The industry is consolidating, and only a few shows dominate, so your time is precious—use it wisely.
6. Why Are Program Directors (PDs) Often Older, and When Is My Time?
Consolidation and syndication slowed turnover, so older PDs still dominate. But the game is changing—new management roles favor those who can innovate and connect with younger audiences.
If you’re young talent, diversify your skills and income streams. Don’t wait for opportunities—create them. Legacy experience alone won’t cut it anymore.
7. How Do I Get a Syndicated Show?
Syndicators want fresh, unique content that fills market gaps. Being different beats being experienced. In 2025, relevance and influence trump tenure. Show you’re dynamic and can engage younger, digital-savvy listeners.
8. How Can I Increase My Income?
Become indispensable by expanding your skill set and creating opportunities. Side projects, digital content, and entrepreneurial ventures are your best bets. Use AI tools to automate repetitive tasks and free up time for growth.
9. How Can I Maximize My Potential at My Current Station?
Excel where you are but plan your exit strategy simultaneously. Hustle visibly, volunteer for cross-department projects, and never settle. Stagnation is career kryptonite.
10. How Do I Avoid Getting Laid Off?
Develop side hustles and volunteer for extra projects, especially outside your usual role. Broaden your skill set to increase your value and make yourself harder to replace.
I learned this firsthand by taking on magazine production on weekends, which paid off when layoffs hit.
Bonus: Why Isn’t My PD Noticing My Efforts?
If it’s safe, ask directly. If not, focus on growth beyond your current role. Avoid lateral moves; always aim higher. Don’t be the person stuck in the same job for decades.
What’s Next?
Trust your instincts and build opportunities outsid
