Cathy Csukas has been a trailblazer in the audio industry for three decades, championing the power of audio with creators and advertisers. Cathy co-founded AdLarge Media in 2011, a multi-platform audio ad sales network that launched and grew some of the industry’s biggest names and top- ranking podcasting brands. Cathy’s vision has solidified AdLarge’s reputation as an innovative leader in the media landscape, emphasizing the importance of diverse content and voices for sustainable growth and advertising impact.

In January 2024, Cathy launched the fwd. network as an audio-first creator community featuring underrepresented voices to build their audio brands and beyond intentionally and purposefully with a proven method and ecosystem. The fwd. network is built to simplify the buying experience for advertisers and aims to become the largest supplier of women-targeted audience in the audio space.

This focus on diversity and inclusion has enabled AdLarge to tap into new markets and foster a more inclusive podcasting ecosystem.  Cathy has been recognized by The Podcast Academy, The Gracies, and The Radio Hall of Fame due to her steadfast belief that audio is the most intimate media channel and her use of innovative technology to create seamless buying experiences.

Her dedication to mentorship, especially through her involvement with the Women’s Media Group and the Alliance for Women in Media, has guided numerous women in the digital and media sectors. Recognized for not only her achievements but for her ability to change the audio landscape, Cathy was recently named one of Cynopsis’ 2024 Top Women in Media as a Corporate Visionary, has been one of Radio Ink’s Most Influential Women in Radio for 14 consecutive years, and has been a Top 20 Leader in Radio for the past four years.