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GATSBY GOTTSCH SOLHEIM AND RAQUEL GOTTSCH KOEHLER TAKE THE REINS AT RURAL MEDIA GROUP
Apr. 15, 2025
Source: Rural Media Group news release
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| Gatsby Gottsch Solheim |
Nashville, TN - After 25 years of growth and success, Rural Media Group (RMG), the family-owned media company founded in 2000 by visionary Patrick Gottsch, is proud to announce its transition to second-generation leadership. Sisters Gatsby Gottsch Solheim and Raquel Gottsch Koehler--who have been part of the company's journey since day one -- now officially lead RMG forward, united by a shared commitment to their father's legacy and a deep passion for rural America.
Gatsby will oversee financial strategy, legal affairs, and operations as Chief Financial and Legal Officer. Raquel will lead brand, marketing, and creative strategy as Chief Marketing and Creative Officer. Together, they bring a powerful blend of business acumen and creative vision, positioning RMG for long-term growth while remaining deeply rooted in its family values and mission.
With a combined reach of over 50 million households through RFD-TV, RFD-TV Now, and Rural Radio on SiriusXM 147, RMG is entering a new era--driven by innovation, authenticity, and a continued focus on serving rural communities. Building on the success of flagship programs like Market Day Report, Rural Evening News, Cow Guy Close, On the Record, FarmHer and RanchHer, RMG plans to begin launching a slate of new programming and community initiatives later this year to elevate rural voices and engage a new generation of viewers.
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| Raquel Gottsch Koehler |
"We are honored to take on this responsibility and excited to carry forward the legacy our father built," said Gatsby. "We understand the challenges and opportunities facing rural communities today, and we are dedicated to making sure our platform continues to represent the values and way of life that are so important to us."
"Our father built RMG to give rural America a seat at the national media table--and we're honored to carry that mission forward," added Raquel Gottsch Koehler. "As we step into this next chapter, we're focused on growing our audience across every platform, investing in bold storytelling, and spotlighting the real people who power this country. From the fields to the boardrooms, their stories matter, and we're here to make sure they're seen, heard, and celebrated."
About the New Leadership
Raquel Gottsch Koehler brings a proven track record in media and brand growth. As CEO of RMG's The Cowboy Channel from 2017 to its successful sale in 2024, she transformed the network into a premier content destination for Western sports, producing over 600 live rodeo broadcasts annually. She also led the relaunch of FarmHer and RanchHer on RFD-TV, expanding visibility for women in agriculture.
Gatsby Gottsch Solheim has been a key architect of RMG's financial and strategic evolution since 2010. She led a $30 million debt restructuring, helped expand digital and international distribution, and played a significant role in several strategic asset sales. Her leadership has helped shape the company's operational backbone and ensure its long-term sustainability.
Raquel and Gatsby form a dynamic leadership team committed to preserving RMG's legacy while charting its future. As Rural Media Group enters this next chapter, it will continue to deliver trusted, purpose-driven content to farmers, ranchers, small businesses, and rural communities across the country--remaining a steadfast voice for rural America for generations to come.
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