iHeartMedia, the largest radio operator in the United States, has initiated a widespread round of layoffs affecting on-air talent across multiple markets as part of a cost-saving effort. The company, which owns 860 stations in 160 markets, is aiming to cut $50 million in annualized expenses beginning July 1, 2026.

In a memo circulated to employees and shared publicly online, iHeart described the layoffs as a strategic move to “fully leverage our technology” and position the company to adapt to and lead future industry changes. The initiative follows an announcement during the company’s first-quarter earnings report in May, which outlined the cost-reduction program set to take effect in the second half of the year.

A consolidation of reports on RadionInsight.com indicates that at least 114 employees, chiefly on-air personalities, have been laid off in more than 60 markets nationwide. It remains unclear whether any staff in iHeart’s Chicago operations have been affected. However, Josh Martínez, a New York-based host whose show aired nightly on Chicago’s 103.5 KISS-FM, confirmed his departure from the company. Martínez posted on social media that he had “just lost [his] dream job,” and his profile has since been removed from iHeart’s website.

iHeart’s Chicago station group includes WKSC-FM 103.5 (KISS-FM), WVAZ-FM 102.7 (V103), WLIT-FM 93.9 (Lite FM), and WGCI-FM 107.5. The corporation has not provided details on specific layoffs at these individual stations. A spokesperson for iHeart did not respond to requests for comment on the ongoing staffing changes.

This round of cuts reflects broader challenges for traditional radio companies as they navigate shifts in audience behavior, rising operational costs, and growing competition from digital and streaming platforms. iHeartMedia’s efforts to reduce expenses through technology integration point to an industry-wide push to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving media landscape.