TWiRT Ep. 781 - Powering Local Radio into 2026 with Chris Marsalis

Listen to This Week in Radio Tech episode 781, “Powering Local Radio into 2026 with Chris Marsalis.” Chris and his wife own two successful FM stations in Ripley, Mississippi—The Shark 102.3 and Kudzu 104.9—and he shares how strong local programming, especially high school sports, continues to drive audience loyalty. He explains how creative sponsorships, including FM RDS messaging and integrated digital advertising across streaming and podcasts, have expanded revenue opportunities well beyond traditional spot sales. Chris also discusses his technical work with Mississippi Public Broadcasting, helping maintain two HDTV and FM+HD transmitter sites in northeast Mississippi. This episode is a practical and encouraging look at how committed local broadcasters can thrive well into the future.