Audacy has laid off approximately 300 employees, representing about 5% of its workforce, in a significant move following its emergence from Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The layoffs span local and national levels, impacting various departments such as on-air talent, traffic, sales, and management.
Notable on-air personalities affected include David O’Leary, morning host at Boston’s Magic 106.7 (WMJX); Henry Lake and Chris Tubbs, evening hosts at Minneapolis’ 830 WCCO; Trey Morgan, afternoon host at Philadelphia’s Big 98.1 (WOGL); Charley McCain, host at Greensboro’s 98.7 Simon (WSMW); and Aricka McCauley, midday host at Detroit’s 104.3 WOMC.
These layoffs come after significant leadership changes. In January, President and CEO David Field stepped down after 27 years, with Kelli Turner, who joined the board in September 2024, now serving as interim President and CEO. Additionally, Chief Financial Officer Rich Schmaeling resigned in February, with no immediate plans to appoint a replacement.
A company spokesperson stated that the reductions aim to “streamline resources to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving media landscape” and to “best position Audacy to continue serving listeners and advertisers with excellence”.
The company has faced financial challenges, including a delisting from the New York Stock Exchange after its share price fell below the required threshold. In January 2024, Audacy filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to address approximately $1.6 billion of its nearly $2 billion in debt.
These layoffs mark the first large-scale workforce reduction since Audacy’s bankruptcy exit, reflecting ongoing efforts to stabilize and adapt to a shifting media environment.