About Heartland Media
Heartland Media is a dynamic media company founded in May 2026 by veteran broadcaster Mark Bixler in Canton, Illinois. Dedicated to quality programming that celebrates the Heartland’s rich heritage, sports culture, and community spirit, Heartland Media delivers engaging content through both traditional and digital platforms.
Our Stations & Focus
Heartland Sports Radio — An internet radio station offering sports talk, commentary, and in-depth features. Hosted by Mark Bixler, popular programs include Classic Moments of Sports History in the Heartland, which explores legendary games, historic seasons, high school postseason runs, legendary coaches, and timeless sports stories from the Midwest and beyond.
Heartland OldTime Radio — Bringing back the golden age of radio with classic programming, storytelling, and nostalgic entertainment that connects listeners to simpler times.
Heartland Media emphasizes local and regional coverage, including play-by-play sports broadcasts, event coverage, community news, and interviews with athletes, coaches, and local personalities. The goal is to inform, entertain, and unite listeners across the Heartland.
Rooted in the same values that drive Mark Bixler’s work with Legacy Media Group, Heartland Media blends professional broadcasting excellence with a commitment to positive, uplifting content. Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan reliving historic moments or someone who appreciates old-fashioned radio storytelling, Heartland Media offers something for everyone.
Founded: May 2026
Based in: Canton, Illinois
Owner/Founder: Mark Bixler
Bringing the Heartland to life — one broadcast at a time.
Hello, I'm Mark Bixler, a dedicated media professional, broadcaster, and faith-driven servant based in Canton, Illinois (with ties to nearby Lewistown). Originally from Woodington, Ohio — the hometown of legendary broadcaster Lowell Thomas — I bring a lifelong passion for storytelling, community engagement, and sharing the GosAbout Heartland OldTime Radio
Heartland OldTime Radio is a nostalgic internet radio station dedicated to reviving the golden age of broadcasting. Launched in May 2026 as a flagship service of Heartland Media in Canton, Illinois, we bring back the magic of classic radio drama, comedy, mystery, westerns, detective stories, and timeless entertainment that captivated generations.
What We Offer
Classic Radio Shows: Featuring legendary programs from the 1930s through the 1960s, including favorites like The Lone Ranger, Dragnet, Gunsmoke, The Shadow, Fibber McGee and Molly, Suspense, and many more.
Old Time Storytelling: Serials, theater of the mind productions, and heartfelt narratives that transport listeners back to simpler times.
Nostalgic Music & Features: Period music, vintage newsreels, and special programming that celebrates the Heartland’s history and heritage.
Community Connection: Hosted and curated by veteran broadcaster Mark Bixler, with occasional interviews, listener requests, and local flavor woven into the schedule.
At Heartland OldTime Radio, we believe great stories never go out of style. Whether you’re a longtime fan of old time radio or discovering it for the first time, our station offers a welcoming escape from today’s fast-paced world. We deliver quality programming that entertains, inspires, and connects families and listeners across the Midwest and beyond.
Founded: May 2026
Part of: Heartland Media
Founder & Host: Mark Bixler
Based in: Canton, Illinois
Turning back the dial to a better time — one classic broadcast at a time.
Hello, I'm Mark Bixler, a dedicated media professional, broadcaster, and faith-driven servant based in Canton, Illinois (with ties to nearby Lewistown). Originally from Woodington, Ohio — the hometown of legendary broadcaster Lowell Thomas — I bring a lifelong passion for storytelling, community engagement, and sharing the Gospel through modern media.
I have been working in radio broadcasting since 1983. My career has included stops at WDRK, WPTW, WZZY, WVNN, WZYP, WUMP, WCNB, WIFE, Metro Networks, and WFCJ. I also served as the play-by-play voice for Dayton Christian and Xenia Christian athletic events on WFCJ from 1999 to 2005.
Today, I work as News Director for 94.1 BYS and Q98.1 at Spoon River Media in Canton, Illinois. This full-time “tentmaking” role supports my broader media and ministry work. In May 2026, I founded Heartland Media, where I launched Heartland OldTime Radio and Heartland Sports Radio, focusing on classic programming, local sports play-by-play, event coverage, and community content.
In 2022, I co-founded Legacy Media Group with Michael McMillion and currently serve as its President and Director. Legacy Media Group is a Christian media ministry dedicated to faith-based content, video production, and outreach — including truck stop and rest stop ministries where we visit travelers to pray with them and offer encouragement. We also have a vision to expand Bible studies at truck stops across the Midwest.
As a Holy Spirit-filled believer in Jesus Christ and a Certified Chaplain with the National Certified Chaplains Association, my faith is at the center of everything I do. I am actively involved in community events in Fulton County, such as National Day of Prayer observances in Canton, and I enjoy supporting local churches, veterans, and worthy causes through both media and personal ministry.
Whether behind the microphone delivering news, calling a game, producing content, or ministering to someone on the road, I am passionate about using media and ministry to build community, uplift others, and glorify God. I welcome connections with fellow believers, local organizations, and anyone interested in collaborating on meaningful projects.