Mike McVay Receives Annual MIW Erica Farber Impact Award

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW) has named Mike McVay, President of McVay Media, as the recipient of the Third Annual MIW Erica Farber Impact Award.

The award recognizes individuals who drive meaningful change in the radio industry by actively supporting impactful organizations and generously contributing their time, expertise, and resources. Honorees are honored as champions of service and advocates for growth and progress within the industry.

“Mike McVay has been a consistent and powerful advocate for both the radio industry and the advancement of women within it,” said MIW Board President Sheila Kirby. 

“His willingness to share his time, expertise, and influence has made a lasting impact on MIW and the broader community we serve. Mike doesn’t just support the mission — he actively helps move it forward. That kind of leadership is exactly what the Erica Farber Impact Award represents.”

With more than four decades in broadcasting, McVay has held senior leadership roles including Executive Vice President of Content and Programming for Cumulus Media and Westwood One, where he oversaw programming for more than 500 radio stations, as well as podcasting, digital distribution, and content strategy.

A respected mentor and coach, McVay has worked with many prominent media figures, including Stephen A. Smith, Soledad O’Brien, Reba McEntire, John Tesh, Delilah, and Elaina Smith. He has played a key role in mentoring Elaina Smith, helping her become an award-winning country radio personality and host of “Backstage Country.”McVay is a 2025 National Radio Hall of Fame inductee and has received numerous industry honors, including the NAB National Radio Award, the Giants of Broadcasting Award, and multiple Programmer/Consultant of the Year distinctions.

“Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to learn from and work alongside incredible people who believe in the power of this industry,” McVay said. “Supporting organizations like MIW is important because they are helping shape the future of radio by creating opportunities and opening doors for the next generation of leaders. I’m truly honored to receive this recognition.”

McVay is the third recipient of the Erica Farber Impact Award, following Dan Spears in 2025 and Erica Farber, who received the inaugural award in 2024.