In a world where attention is scarce and trust is earned, audio advertising stands out. Consumers are bombarded by screens and growing more skeptical as the relentless and sometimes unpredictable pace of tech changes. Audio offers a different kind of engagement—one that’s personal, trusted, and memorable.

With 9 out of 10 Americans tuning in, audio is relevant and essential. Brands that use it strategically are building stronger connections and driving results.

Why Audio Works

The answer is in the fundamentals: reach × response rate = results. Audio delivers both.

Audio, specifically Broadcast Radio, leads the way in mass reach.

• AM/FM radio, reaching 9 out of 10 Americans every month, is the most ubiquitous ad‑supported audio channel in America.¹
• Podcasting is now mainstream. 55% of Americans listen monthly, and global growth is accelerating.²
• Broadcast + Podcasts own ad‑supported listening; together they account for over 83% of all ad‑supported listening—delivering the lion’s share of attention and unmatched impact for advertisers.⁴

Strong response rates come from reaching people at the right moments and doing it through voices they trust. That’s exactly what audio advertising does best.

• Trusted voices drive action. Listeners trust their favorite hosts, and that credibility transfers to the brands they endorse. Podcast hosts are seen as 3× more non-judgmental than social media influencers, and radio hosts are viewed as nearly 2× more authentic. Radio is the most trusted medium, with 79% of consumers saying they trust it.
• Timing matters. 85% of consumers say radio is the last thing they hear before shopping, making it a powerful trigger for action and a key driver of response.
• Emotional engagement boosts performance. Audio reaches people during high-attention moments like traffic, sports, and weather updates—when they’re tuned in and receptive.
• Short, frequent ads keep brands top of mind. Repetition in the right context helps drive recall and consideration.
• Real-world reach meets real-time intent. Whether in the car, on a walk, or mid-errand, audio connects with consumers right when decisions are being made.

That’s why audio works—it delivers reach at scale and response you can measure. With trust, timing, and emotional connection at play, audio drives results.

Why It Matters Now More Than Ever

Today’s savvy marketers understand the importance of reach. While hyper-targeting and algorithm-based buys can address precise, narrow audiences, we know consumers don’t make decisions in a silo. Deploying audio across each stage of the funnel enables brands to reach both the targeted consumers and those who influence them.

What’s most impressive about how audio advertising works? It makes your other media work harder, improving social performance by 83%, digital and social engagement by 109%, and branded search activity by 47%.

How to Get Started with Audio Advertising

Getting started with audio is easier than you think.

• Define your audience & work with a trusted team that can help. Audio platforms offer scale and precision, from national reach to hyper-local targeting.
• Craft messaging that’s conversational, authentic, and aligned with your brand voice. Trusted hosts and influencers can amplify your message.
• Consider when your message will resonate. Use high-attention moments like traffic, weather, and sports updates to stay top of mind.
• Collaborate with leaders in the audio ad space like the iHeart team to craft the right media mix with strategic allocation across Broadcast Radio, Podcasts and Digital Audio.
• Use short, frequent ad units to boost recall and consideration. Activate in-car moments when consumers are ready to act. And lean into passion points (sports, music, lifestyle) to connect emotionally and drive performance.

For marketers wondering how to get started with audio advertising, it begins with clarity—on your audience, your message, and your timing. And your team at iHeart is ready to help with all three.

With a monthly reach of 276 million, and response rate rooted in real trust & strategic timing, iHeart continues to be the clear front-runner among the top audio advertising companies in the US.

Ready to Make Audio Work for You?

Audio connects in ways that feel personal and real. iHeartMedia is among the best audio advertising platforms, with the tools, talent, and reach to help your brand stand out.

Let’s talk. Connect with iHeart today to explore how audio can elevate your next campaign.