Our History
Federated Media proudly operates 12 radio stations and a digital marketing agency located in northern Indiana. Below, you’ll see some significant events that helped Federated Media become the innovative media company it is today.
1952
John F. Dille took over responsibility of The Elkhart Truth newspaper in Elkhart, IN, which included WTRC-AM (1340) and WLTA-FM (100.7). WLTA changed its call letters to WBYT in 1994 to become B100, Today’s Best and Most Country.
1960s
1970s
Federated Media purchases WMEE-FM (97.3) and WMEF-FM in Fort Wayne, IN, and later acquires WOWO-AM (1190), WQHK-FM (105.1), WBYR-FM (98.9) and WFWI-FM (92.3). Federated Media also purchases radio stations in Cincinnati, OH, Grand Rapids, MI, and Tulsa, OK.
1993
1996
1997
2002
2003
Federated Media purchases WLRX-FM (95.7) of Nappanee, IN, to launch a new Hot AC station in the South Bend, IN, market.
2005
2010
Federated Media changes the call letters of WAOR (95.3) to WTRC, launching the first FM News/Talk format in South Bend, IN. Federated Media changes the call letters of WYPW to WAOR and switches from the hip hop format to classic rock.
2013
Federated Media becomes one of the first broadcasters to implement responsive website design for all station websites. Read more about this innovative decision.
2014
WOWO (1190am) wins the coveted NAB Marconi Award for medium market radio stations.
Federated Interactive changes its name to Federated Digital Solutions.
2015
2016
2018
WOWO (1190AM, 107.5 FM) wins the coveted NAB Service to America Award for its annual fundraiser, Penny Pitch.
2021
WRBR wins The Indiana Broadcaster’s Association’s Spectrum Award for Best Commercial – Justin Elias State Farm’s, “Ask Questions.”
2023
3/23 – WUBU was sold
5/23 – WOWO began simulcasting on 92.3 in Fort Wayne
9/23 – Radio morning hosts Jason Lee & Kluck signed a syndication deal with Audio 1
10/23 – Deb Miles was inducted into the Indiana Broadcaster’s Hall of Fame.