About this Event
Community Media Festival 2026. 'Broadcasting beyond boundaries. Driving innovation across FM, DAB, Online and Podcasting.'
After the success of the CMA Festival 2025 in MediaCity Salford and our Summer Gathering in Melton Mowbray, we are excited to announce that the CMA Festival 2026 will take place at The Lantern, the home of Bauer Media, on Saturday 3 October 2026.
This year the festival brings together innovators, emerging talent and experienced broadcasters for a full day of ideas, inspiration, and practical skills.
We’re thrilled to welcome radio futurologist James Cridland, who will present “AI for Radio – and Why You Shouldn’t Use It.” In this provocative session, James will demonstrate practical AI tools that help community broadcasters create great audio more easily, while challenging the assumption that generative AI is the future. His message is clear: as traditional barriers fall away, people remain our strongest advantage.
A series of powerful panels will explore the changing shape of the sector — from youth voices to later‑life broadcasters.
- “Under 30s – Vision of the Future”, hosted by Lauren Underwood, will spotlight the next generation of talent, featuring Jordan Blythe (Kerrang! Radio) and Johnny Jenkins (producer of Nick Ferrari at Breakfast).
- Later Life Audio and Radio Co‑operative will lead a dedicated panel on creating opportunities for people who want to start broadcasting later in life — using audio as a tool to break down barriers to inclusion and to champion lifelong creativity.
- Our 101 Marketing Ideas for Your Radio Station panel will deliver practical, low‑cost strategies to help stations grow audiences and strengthen community impact.
We’re also joined by Jo Russell (Magic Radio / Greatest Hits 80s), who will share insights from decades of commercial radio success. Community podcast expert Vic Turnbull will run a session on creating purposeful, funded podcasts that deliver real community value.
Funding is a major focus this year, with our Funding Futures panel looking beyond the Community Radio Fund. Delegates will receive guidance on preparing strong bids, alongside advice on wider grant opportunities and new income streams for community media organisations.
The festival will also celebrate the people who make community media thrive, with our Community Champions Awards, delivered in partnership with Sound Vision.
The Community Media Festival 2026 promises a full day of innovation, connection and practical insight for everyone passionate about community broadcasting — whatever stage of the journey they’re on.
– Inspiring speakers and panel sessions.
– Networking opportunities to connect, share and recharge.
– and much more to be announced!
Your ticket includes refreshments and lunch.
Agenda
James Cridland - AI for radio - and why you shouldn't use it
Host: James Cridland
Info: AI for Radio – and Why You Shouldn’t Use It
Radio futurologist James Cridland explores how AI is reshaping audio production, distribution and creativity — and why people remain radio’s strongest future. In this session, James demonstrates practical AI tools that can help community broadcasters create great audio more easily, while challenging the assumptions around automation, authenticity and human connection.
The Later Life Audio & Radio Cooperative
Host: Mervyn Eastman
Info: The Later Life Audio & Radio Cooperative (LLARC) showcases how broadcasting can begin at any age - empowering older voices, breaking down barriers, and proving that community media is for everyone.
Later Life Audio & Radio Cooperative (LLARC)
LLARC champions later‑life creativity in audio, supporting older people to develop skills, share their stories and take up space in community media. Their session explores how broadcasting can start at any age, why representation matters, and how inclusive audio strengthens communities.
Under 30s - Vision of the Future
Host: Lauren Underwood
Info: Under 30s: Vision of the Future
Hosted by Lauren Underwood, this panel features Jordan Blyth, Johnny Jenkins and rising voices from across the UK. Together they explore how under‑30s are consuming content, breaking into the industry and reshaping radio, podcasts and multi‑platform storytelling. Expect fresh perspectives, honest experiences and a look at what the future of audio could - and should - sound like.
Jo Russell - Radio Days
Host: Jo Russell
Info: o Russell, one of the UK’s most recognisable radio voices, joins Michelle Durant from Chelmsford Community Radio for an in‑depth conversation about her journey from hospital radio to national broadcasting. In Conversation: Jo Russell with Michelle Durant
Jo Russell — Magic Radio and Greatest Hits Radio presenter — reflects on her career from York Hospital Radio to national networks, sharing stories, lessons and the craft behind her warm, relatable broadcasting style. Interviewed by Michelle Durant, Station Manager at Chelmsford Community Radio, this session explores how community roots shape great presenters and why authenticity still matters in modern radio.
Funding Futures - Community Radio Fund
Host: Richard Hilton
Info: Funding is a major focus this year, with our Funding Futures panel looking beyond the Community Radio Fund. Delegates will receive guidance on preparing strong bids, alongside advice on wider grant opportunities and new income streams for community media organisations.
101 'almost free' Marketing Ideas for Community Radio (and podcast)
Host: Kevin Field
Info: 101 Almost Free Marketing Ideas
A fast‑paced, practical session packed with real examples of low‑cost, high‑impact marketing ideas used successfully across community radio (and podcast) today. From audience growth to local partnerships, social content to on‑air tactics, this session gives stations simple, actionable ways to stand out and strengthen their presence — even on the tightest budgets.
Event venue & nearby stays
Bauer Media Group, 75 Hampstead Road, London, United Kingdom
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.