Here are some top headlines in industry news that you should know about:
Podcast Activity Surges in 2025, Doubling Last Year’s Pace — More than 533,000 podcasts have released new episodes so far in 2025, according to mid-year data from Listen Notes. That’s more than double the number seen in all of 2024. Inside Radio reports this marks the highest activity since the pandemic-era podcast boom, with over 100,000 new shows launching in the first half of the year alone. If trends hold, 2025 could set a new record for episode output across the industry. Find out the details.
Howell Extends PR Firm Contract to Rebuild City's Image — Howell is renewing its partnership with Michigan-based PR firm BURCH in an effort to move past the city’s complicated reputation tied to white supremacist activity. The $6,500-per-month contract, extended for up to a year, aims to promote positive changes like new development projects and local businesses. City leaders say they need professional help to change the narrative, but not all residents agree with the cost. Find out the details.
Kano Pillars FC Partners with Radio France International Hausa in Historic Deal — Kano Pillars Football Club has signed a one-year MoU with Radio France International (RFI) Hausa, naming RFI the club’s official media partner. The agreement includes N5 million in cash and a support package valued at about N100 million. Club GM Ahmed Musa called the deal historic, noting it will boost the team’s morale and visibility. RFI’s sponsorship includes new kits, media equipment, training for the club’s media team, and content publishing on RFI Hausa platforms. The press release was published in MarCom Europe, part of Affinity Group Publishing.
Rogers State University Team Wins Multiple Honors at Oklahoma PR Awards — Two members of Rogers State University's Communications and Marketing team took home five awards at the 2025 Oklahoma College Public Relations Association’s annual competition, which drew over 600 entries statewide. Graphic designer Randy Riggs earned top honors for his student box and pillowcase designs, while writer/editor Tom Fink was recognized for his photography and short-form writing. Read the full story here.
rbb Communications Acquires San Francisco Tech PR Firm UPRAISE — Miami-based rbb Communications has acquired UPRAISE Marketing + Public Relations, a San Francisco firm with deep roots in B2B tech and financial services. UPRAISE President Tim Johnson joins rbb’s leadership team as an equity partner, while the agency continues operating under its own name. The deal adds AI, cybersecurity, and enterprise tech clients to rbb’s portfolio. You can find more industry moves featured on O'Dwyer's website.
Pittsburgh PR Firm Hires Former Pitt News Writer to Support Hampton Township Schools — The Communication Solutions Group has welcomed Maria Scanga as its newest communications specialist, where she will lead media outreach, write articles, and manage social media for the Hampton Township School District. Scanga, a University of Pittsburgh alumna and former Pitt News senior writer, brings a strong background in journalism and deep ties to the region—having grown up in the nearby Deer Park school district. Find out more here.
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