Montana Radio: Iliad Media To Acquire Nine Stations

Iliad Media Group Holdings has acquired nine radio stations in the Helena, Montana region through the purchase of Montana Radio Company. The acquired stations, located in Montana’s capital city area, offer a variety of formats including country, rock, pop, and news.

Iliad, which transitioned to employee ownership via an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) in 2022, will integrate Montana Radio Company employees into the ESOP, expanding its roster of employee-owners. 

CEO Darrell Calton expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “We are thrilled to bring The Montana Radio Company into the Iliad family. Our mutual commitment to employee ownership and community-oriented broadcasting sets the stage for a vibrant fusion of radio cultures.”

Montana Radio Company’s CEO and Founding Owner, Kevin Terry, echoed this sentiment: “Partnering with Iliad Media Group is a natural fit with our goal of building a workplace where employees share in the company’s achievements. This transition secures both stability and a sense of ownership for our Montana team.”

The Montana stations will retain their current leadership and branding. Notably, the Nampa-based Joey & Lauren morning show, syndicated regionally by Iliad via My 102.7, is already broadcast on Helena’s Mix 102.3.

Terry founded Montana Radio Company in 2011 with a single country station and one employee. Over the years, it expanded to nine stations and over 30 staff members. In 2017, the company engaged in a complex transaction with another firm, further boosting its presence in the Helena market.

Following this acquisition, Iliad now controls 23 stations across the Boise, Twin Falls, and Helena markets.