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Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Media Partner for Integrated Marketing Solutions
Leighton Media has been a trusted media partner for businesses seeking meaningful connections and measurable growth since 1963. Originally founded as a single radio station in Detroit Lakes, MN, we have evolved into a multi-media marketing powerhouse with 26 radio stations across Minnesota and North Dakota, 7 locations, and over 150 employees. Our employee-owned structure ensures every team member has a vested interest in your success, combining local market expertise with national reach through integrated radio, digital, video, and event marketing solutions. We specialize in crafting customized advertising strategies that align with client goals and budgets, leveraging our BrandsFormation radio branding tool and sister brand Leighton Engage for comprehensive digital campaigns.

With decades of experience in live event production, podcasting services, and video storytelling, we help businesses create authentic connections with their target audiences. Our commitment to innovation is demonstrated through our 2024 rebranding initiative and continuous expansion of services, including on-air promotions, recruitment advertising, and strategic content marketing. We maintain E-E-A-T principles through transparent client partnerships, verifiable success stories from long-term clients, and a focus on delivering tangible ROI through measurable marketing solutions.
Services
Radio Advertising Digital Marketing Event Production Video Production Podcast Services Brand Development Marketing Strategy Media Planning Content Creation Community Engagement
Details
  • Year established: 1963
Highlights and features
  • We offer 60+ years of media experience with local market expertise
  • Our employee-owned structure ensures your success is our priority
  • We provide integrated marketing solutions across 26 radio stations
  • Our BrandsFormation tool creates powerful radio branding strategies
  • We combine traditional media with innovative digital marketing approaches
Associations and certifications
  • Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP)
What people say
Personal attention Helped bridge community gap Great creative ideas Effective marketing solutions Dedicated to client success
Services
Radio Advertising
Leverage our 26 radio stations across Minnesota and North Dakota to reach targeted local audiences. Our custom radio strategies include spot advertising, sponsorship opportunities, and live broadcasts that create brand awareness and drive customer engagement. With specialized formats covering music, news, sports, and community events, we help businesses connect with listeners through strategic messaging and on-air promotions.
Digital Marketing
Our sister brand Leighton Engage delivers comprehensive digital marketing solutions that complement traditional radio campaigns. Services include website development, social media management, paid advertising, and content marketing strategies that amplify brand visibility across digital platforms. We create integrated marketing plans that combine data-driven digital tactics with proven radio advertising effectiveness for maximum ROI.
Event Production
Create memorable brand experiences through our large-scale community events that attract thousands of attendees annually. From craft beer tours to family expos and seasonal celebrations, our events provide direct customer engagement opportunities through booth placements, sponsorships, and interactive promotions that strengthen local business connections and drive immediate sales.
Video Production
Our in-house video team creates compelling content that transforms marketing messages into engaging visual narratives. Services include concept development, professional videography, and post-production editing for broadcast, web, and social media platforms. We specialize in creating authentic brand stories that resonate with target audiences and deliver measurable conversion improvements.
Podcast Services
Develop professional podcasts from concept to distribution with our three-tier production packages. Our services include strategic planning, studio recording, precision editing, and multi-channel promotion through radio spots, digital ads, and social media campaigns. We help businesses establish thought leadership and connect with audiences through custom audio content tailored to specific marketing objectives.
People
Bob Leighton
President and CEO
As President and CEO, Bob Leighton leads Leighton Media with a vision for integrated marketing solutions. With decades of industry experience, he oversees strategic growth and maintains the company's community-focused approach since taking leadership in 2007.
Scott Nelson
Chief Financial Officer
Scott Nelson manages financial operations with expertise in media industry economics. He ensures fiscal responsibility while supporting strategic investments that drive the company's multi-platform expansion and service innovation.
Gary Foss
Chief Revenue Officer
Gary Foss leads revenue growth initiatives with deep understanding of advertising markets. He develops client partnerships that combine traditional media strengths with emerging digital opportunities to maximize marketing effectiveness.
Questions
What marketing services does Leighton Media offer?
We provide integrated radio advertising, digital marketing, event production, video creation, and podcast services across Minnesota and North Dakota.
How can radio advertising benefit my business?
Our 26 radio stations deliver targeted local reach through custom spots, sponsorships, and live broadcasts that build brand awareness and customer engagement.
What makes your digital marketing different?
Our sister brand Leighton Engage combines proven radio strategies with data-driven digital tactics for cohesive campaigns that maximize ROI.
Can I participate in your community events?
Yes! Businesses can join our popular events through booth placements, sponsorships, or promotional partnerships that connect directly with local audiences.
How do you measure marketing success?
We track results through audience engagement metrics, conversion rates, and client growth statistics while maintaining transparent performance reporting.
Are you truly employee-owned?
Yes, our Employee Stock Ownership Program ensures every team member has a vested interest in your business's success through shared ownership.
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