‘Guaranteed Human’: Audio giant iHeartMedia says real people, not AI personalities, are at the controls

by

With media companies figuring out how to use artificial intelligence, iHeartMedia, a major radio network, is aiming to differentiate itself.

Our stations won’t use artificial intelligence to create fake personalities or play music with computer-generated singers trying to sound like real people,” explained Tom Poleman, the company’s head of programming, in a message to staff.

“The podcasts we publish are also Guaranteed Human,” he wrote.

Radio DJs are now required to regularly announce they are real people, saying “Guaranteed Human” during their hourly station identifications, which already include the station’s call letters as mandated by the Federal Communications Commission. This new campaign comes from research by iHeartMedia showing people listen to the radio for connection, not just music and news.

People aren’t simply seeking information; they want genuine connections, according to Lainie Fertick, the company’s head of research. In today’s digitally saturated world, consumers are craving authenticity.

This decision comes as people in Hollywood – writers, agents, and studio leaders – are figuring out how to deal with quickly developing artificial intelligence. AI is already helping with simple tasks, but the recent appearance of lifelike AI actors, like Tilly Norwood (who has over 66,000 Instagram followers), has caused concern. Major companies like Disney and NBCUniversal have also filed lawsuits against AI businesses for violating copyright laws.

Television

The recent ‘South Park’ episode, ‘Sora Not Sorry,’ explores the tricky issue of copyright when it comes to AI-created art. The episode does this by including characters like Totoro and Bluey, and also features a storyline involving former President Trump.

According to a memo from Poleman, iHeartMedia is using artificial intelligence to improve its operations and grow its business. These AI tools assist with tasks like scheduling, understanding audiences, analyzing data, automating workflows, preparing shows, and organizing content.

iHeartMedia runs over 850 radio stations across the country, making it the largest radio operator in the U.S. In Los Angeles, they own stations like KFI-AM 640, KLAC-AM 570, KOST-FM 103.5, and KIIS-FM 102.7.

The company is expanding into podcasting, creating popular shows like “Stuff You Should Know,” “Questlove Supreme,” and “Drama Queens.” They also collaborate with major organizations like the NFL, NBA, and Shondaland Audio (founded by Shonda Rhimes) to produce podcasts, including “The Laverne Cox Show.”

Hollywood Inc.

A Dutch artist who designed an AI performer named Tilly Norwood caused controversy in Hollywood by announcing Tilly was about to be represented by a talent agency.

Formerly called Clear Channel Communications, the company has faced challenges due to relying too heavily on automated systems and centralized control.

Following a train derailment and explosion in Minot, North Dakota in 2002, which released a toxic cloud, local radio stations played pre-recorded music instead of providing emergency information. The accident resulted in one death and dozens of injuries. Afterwards, Congress investigated whether media consolidation – specifically, Clear Channel’s ownership of six of Minot’s eight radio stations – contributed to the failure to warn the public during the disaster.

Clear Channel stated that the local police didn’t turn on the emergency alert system that night, which would have enabled them to broadcast important updates.

Since then, the company has highlighted how it responds during other disasters. For example, iHeartMedia received awards for its coverage of Hurricane Helene in Asheville, North Carolina, in 2024, and provided critical support during the Eaton and Pacific Palisades fires in January. They shared vital information and collaborated with local groups to gather and distribute essential supplies. According to an iHeart spokesperson, serving their communities is the company’s top priority.

Hollywood Inc.

Morris O’Kelly believes traditional AM radio is fading out, especially after his talk show on KFI-AM (640) was cancelled due to recent budget cuts.

Like many radio and news companies, iHeartMedia is facing lower advertising revenue and is working to maintain audience interest as people get their media from more places. Recently, the company reduced staff at its well-known KFI station, including Morris “Mo” O’Kelly, who had hosted the evening talk show for almost three years.

Radio personality Chuck Dizzle shared on Instagram that he was let go from Los Angeles hip-hop station KRRL-FM, known as “Real 92.3.”

According to the company’s research, customers want to connect with actual people, and they’re worried about how AI and its increasing use might impact society.

Poleman highlighted a recent survey finding that about 66% of people are concerned AI could take their jobs.

In a memo, Poleman encouraged iHeartMedia staff to view “Guaranteed Human” as a core value, not just an advertising slogan.

Poleman explained that listeners appreciate connecting with authentic voices and genuine human experiences. He believes it’s important to champion real people and their stories, stating, “We’re on the side of humans.”

Read More

2025-11-26 01:02