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Beasley Media Group Partners with WideOrbit for Live Broadcasting at NAB Show 2026

4/15/2026, 2:59:09 PM

Innovative Broadcasting Initiative

Beasley Media Group is set to showcase its commitment to the future of live broadcasting through a collaboration with WideOrbit at the 2026 NAB Show in Las Vegas. The event will feature a live broadcast from the WideOrbit booth (C3038) in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center on April 20 and 21, from noon to 3 PM Pacific Time. Shawn Stevens, the Program Director and midday host of KCYE-FM "102.7 Coyote Country," will conduct the broadcast using WideOrbit's WO Aurora platform, which allows for remote control of broadcasts and real-time programming through its "Live Mic" feature.

Lamar Smith, Vice President of Engineering at Beasley Media Group, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “This is a great example of how we’re continuing to evolve as a company and embrace tools that help us work smarter and connect with audiences in new ways.” He highlighted the integration of new technology with existing systems as a means to innovate while maintaining operational consistency across markets.

Broader Industry Engagement

In conjunction with Beasley Media Group's live broadcast, the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation (LABF) and the Broadcast Education Association (BEA) will host the 2026 Career Fair and Graduate School Showcase during the NAB Show. Scheduled for April 20 from 11 AM to 3 PM in the West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, this event aims to connect leading media organizations with emerging talent. Deborah Parenti and Dave “Chachi” Denes, Co-Chairs of the LABF, expressed pride in facilitating networking opportunities that strengthen the industry's future.

Criticism & Opposition

While Beasley Media Group's initiative has been met with enthusiasm, some industry observers question the long-term viability of traditional broadcasting methods in an increasingly digital landscape. Critics argue that despite technological advancements, the core challenges of audience engagement and competition from streaming services remain significant hurdles for traditional radio.

Official Statements & Responses

Beasley Media Group has reiterated its focus on leveraging innovative technologies to enhance content delivery. Lamar Smith noted the importance of adapting to new tools while ensuring operational flexibility, stating, “What makes this especially exciting is the ability to integrate new technology with our existing systems.”

What's Next

As the NAB Show approaches, Beasley Media Group's live broadcast will serve as a focal point for discussions on the future of radio broadcasting. The outcomes of this initiative may influence how traditional media companies adapt to the evolving landscape of content delivery and audience engagement.