We are witnessing the dawn of a new age:  The rise of radio as a feature. That means “radio” isn’t simply a media category run by media institutions.  It is now a feature of other categories – a feature of brands themselves – brands which are capable of monetizing that feature in the same way traditional broadcasters do – with ads. This is another manifestation of one of my regular themes:  Brands are now media.  Brands are becoming “mediacized.” In the wake of unconfirmed go

So the other day I was in Barnes & Noble for the first time in a long time.  What a revelation! Where are the DVD’s?!  Gone!  And the music?  Gone!  Both replaced by a wide variety of “learning toys.”  Meanwhile the “Nook” section was expanded and moved to the center of the store, complete with ultra-contemporary Apple-like design aesthetic. Remember when the bookstore sold books (and music and movies)?  That was back when B&N competed against my dearly departed Borders, the

It’s a question vexing many broadcasters, especially those charged with leading the radio industry: Is Pandora “radio” or is it something else? I’m going to put that to rest right now. Yes, Pandora is “radio.”  And you are “Pandora.”  Get used to it. That is not to say Pandora is identical to “radio.”  Whether or not the two are the same is irrelevant to users, advertisers, and broadcasters alike.  You don’t have to be the same as radio to be “radio.” You simply have to be us

Those of you who are thoughtful about radio's future and its many opportunities in a digital world will appreciate this video – it's a highlight from my recent presentation at the British Columbia Association of Broadcasters conference in May, 2010. How do we redefine radio for an all-new age? The answer is here (and it's not "stick an FM receiver in a mobile phone").  At least part of the answer. The rest will be on display at the upcoming Convergence conference. Want just t