A Shift in Sound: The Rise of Online Radio

As audiences continue to move away from traditional media platforms, the decline of terrestrial radio and legacy broadcasting outlets has become increasingly evident. Changing consumer habits, the rise of on-demand content and the growing desire for personalized listening experiences have all contributed to a steady erosion of traditional radio’s once-dominant position.

In contrast, online radio audiences are flourishing. The medium has emerged as a dynamic and accessible alternative to terrestrial radio, offering global reach and specialized programming. According to a recent study by Statista, in 2025, 73% of Americans listened to online radio each week, which is up from 70% in 2024 and below 10% in 2007.

A standout example of independent online stations finding success is Handball Court Radio, created and co-founded by Sarah Livings-Walsh and Analisa Venolia. The station launched in October 2024 and this year surpassed over 250,000 listens for the month of March. The online station offers shows that explore social issues from an empathetic and solution-oriented lens, and is in the process of expanding its programming to meet the needs of its growing listener base.

“We’ve built a loyal audience based on our dedication to serving the community,” said Livings-Walsh. “Our listeners know that they can trust us not only to give them accurate information, but to care about how we can join together to tackle the problems we discuss on-air.”

Handball Court Radio goes beyond discussing topics and raising awareness for issues to its audience. In episodes of their shows and through the station’s website, Livings-Walsh and Venolia provide their listeners with tools and opportunities to engage with their communities. Their goal is to foster a sense of unity, not only amongst their audience, but among their listeners and their respective communities.

“Handball Court Radio and online radio meet a need that traditional media doesn’t fulfill,” Venolia said. “We’re not constrained by corporate interests and have the freedom and flexibility to explore topics and build community in ways that traditional media cannot.”