Learfield’s rich history dates back to 1972, when Learfield Communications, Inc. started as a farm radio network heard over six Missouri radio stations – under its original name, Missouri Network, Inc. by co-founders Clyde Lear and Derry Brownfield. Three years later marked the company’s first foray into sports as the radio rights distributor for the University of Missouri, a partner still today. Since then, the company has expanded to become a national leader in intercollegiate athletics, working with institutions, conferences and arenas all across the country.
While continuing to grow in sports marketing, the company also continues to grow and support the division at its roots, News & Ag. Beyond Brownfield and Missourinet, the company now includes three more statewide radio news networks, Minnesota News Network, Radio Iowa and Wisconsin Radio Network. Plus an expanded digital marketing effort in state’s throughout the Midwest.