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Why Radio Should Embrace AI – Not Fear It

By David Kidd, BPR

For decades, radio has thrived by adapting—whether it was the arrival of television, streaming services, podcasts or smart speakers. Each “threat” ultimately became an opportunity. Artificial Intelligence is no different.

The headlines can be alarming: AI writing scripts, cloning voices, building playlists. But for radio, AI isn’t a replacement—it’s a tool. Used wisely, it frees programmers, presenters and producers to do what machines cannot: create connection, tell stories and build community.

Imagine AI handling the heavy lifting of data crunching, so that content teams can spend more time focusing on creativity and local relevance. Picture talent using AI as a personal producer: instantly generating show prep and sourcing local news.

Far from erasing jobs, AI can elevate them. It gives programmers sharper insights, presenters smarter support and stations a faster path from idea to execution. At its best, AI is like having an extra team member—one who never sleeps and loves spreadsheets.

Radio has always been at its strongest when it blends technology with humanity. AI is just the latest evolution.