Meaghan Taylor, a graduate of Florida A&M University’s School of Journalism & Graphic Communication, is making an impact in the radio industry and supporting other women to do the same, according to a March 5 announcement. Taylor has worked with major media companies such as iHeartRadio and Premiere Networks and founded Women in Radio in 2016.
Taylor originally planned to pursue television but found her calling in radio after conversations with friends and reflecting on her love for music. “I ended up in radio after speaking with a few friends. I’ve always loved music, so it was just, you know, the perfect match, and it aligned,” she said.
After graduating from FAMU, Taylor faced challenges finding work. She returned to Vero Beach, Florida, where she was initially rejected for an internship at a local station but later accepted as an assistant. This led to her own late-night show playing urban adult contemporary music. She continued her career at Beatz 96.3 in West Palm Beach before moving to Tuscaloosa, Alabama for roles both on-air and as assistant program director.
Taylor eventually returned to Florida and started Women in Radio while also joining iHeartRadio. As she approaches ten years with both organizations, Women in Radio continues to support women through initiatives like its Media Grant—a $1,000 award presented during the annual conference—to help advance women’s voices in podcasting and media.
Dymond Franklin, another FAMU alumna and member of Women in Radio, said: “I have a few close friends and colleagues in the public relations and communications industry, and when I hear Women in Radio, I think of a diverse community of women who are either in the radio and entertainment industry or looking to explore it.” Franklin added that networking at conferences creates opportunities for lasting professional relationships: “You can showcase yourself and your talents, while also meeting other professionals that could lead to lifelong relationships.”
Taylor credits leaders such as Monica Barnes of “The Steve Harvey Morning Show,” Thea Mitchem of iHeartMedia programming, and Nikki Sparrowexecutive VP of multicultural sales and marketing at iHeartMedia for helping shape her journey. She said: “I think I just show up as myself authentically… It’s like when you’re given these opportunities, you want to make sure that you come through…and show them what exactly you can do.” Taylor emphasized humility: “Always doing the work is so important…just being humble and giving thanks to God and opening doors for people.”
Women in Radio is preparing for a national tour across ten cities starting this month. At each stop they will recognize women who have made significant contributions to the industry.
