<p>About the Guest(s):</p><p><strong>Tom Malone</strong> is the newly appointed CEO of TAPT Media. With an illustrious career spanning over 20 years at Nine, Tom has held numerous key positions, including roles at the "Today Show," "60 Minutes," and in the radio division. His expertise in both executive leadership and media operations is poised to drive TAPT Media to new heights as they enter a phase of independent management.</p><p><strong>Brian Gallagher</strong>, (widely known as 'BG'), is the Chief Commercial Officer at TAPT Media. Bringing extensive commercial strategy experience, His previous accomplishments include running sales at SCA where he spearheaded initiatives like Boomtown, underscoring his capability in delivering transforming media and broadcast strategies.</p><p>Episode Summary:</p><p>In this episode of "The Quarter Hour," host Wade Kingsley sits down with Tom Malone, the newly minted CEO of TAPT Media, and Brian Gallagher, the Chief Commercial Officer. This is TAPT Media’s official debut into the world of independent media business ownership. With Tom's vast experience from his two-decade tenure at Nine and Brian's commercial strategy prowess, TAPT Media is poised to innovate within the Australian media sector. Through Wade's engaging interview style, listeners are given an intricate look at TAPT Media's strategic plans, highlighting the untapped potential that lies ahead for the company.</p><p>Tom Malone shares his vision for TAPT Media, emphasising the transition from its previous corporate ownership under Nine to a privately owned entity backed by the Laundy family. This presents new opportunities for growth, particularly in digital and independent sales channels. Brian Gallagher sheds light on the expansive potential of digital advancements, remarking on TAPT's significant share in the online listening audience and underscoring the benefits of a standalone focus on radio broadcasting.</p><p>Key Takeaways:</p><ul><li>TAPT Media emerges as a newly independent radio broadcasting entity, originating from Nine's ownership and now backed by the Laundy family.</li><li>The focus is on leveraging digital growth and independent sales channels, boosting TAPT's reach and engagement, both on and off platforms.</li><li>TAPT Media holds one-third of the digital audience within Australian radio, highlighting significant growth potential with platforms such as programmatic ad revenues and podcasting.</li><li>Ross Stephenson is highlighted as a unique radio presence, illustrating the communal and engaging character of TAPT's talent roster.</li><li>Tom and Brian emphasise a commitment to maintaining a strong, modern digital brand approach as TAPT Media continues to evolve.</li></ul><p>Notable Quotes:</p><ul><li>"There's so many other things that are possible with this business now that we're privately owned." — Tom Malone</li><li>"We've kind of vastly outperformed the market in that space at the moment and we expect that to continue for quite some time." — Brian Gallagher</li><li>"Ross Stephenson's show is full of entertainment and whimsical. It's a safe space." — Tom Malone</li></ul>