SALISBURY — Rufus Hobson III, host and executive producer of the internationally syndicated The RH3 Show, is competing in the national Top Host 2026 competition, a search for an emerging broadcasting voice with the opportunity to reach audiences across the country.
Hobson, a Salisbury native, has spent more than a decade building a broadcasting career rooted in authentic conversation, meaningful storytelling, faith, family and culture, noted a release.
Beginning his professional radio journey in 2015, Hobson developed his broadcasting experience through internet radio, station management, and independent media production. Today, he leads The RH3 Show, a radio ministry experience reaching audiences internationally, with Gospel 107.1 FM in Nassau, Bahamas, serving as its flagship station. The program recently received finalist recognition at the SPIN Awards in the categories of Best Small Market Radio Show of the Year and Best Small Market Radio Host of the Year.
For Hobson, participating in Top Host 2026 represents more than another professional milestone. It is an opportunity to expand the reach of conversations that encourage, inform, challenge and inspire.
“Broadcasting has been part of my life for as long as I can remember,” Hobson said. “Long before I had a professional microphone, I was creating shows, interviewing friends and imagining what it would be like to connect with an audience. Today, I have the privilege of doing that through The RH3 Show. This competition is another opportunity to grow, represent where I come from, and remind people that their voices and stories matter.”
The Top Host 2026 grand prize includes a $25,000 honorarium, the opportunity to host a six-episode podcast produced by iHeart, and a guest appearance on On Air with Ryan Seacrest.
The competition also supports the Ryan Seacrest Foundation, which helps bring creative and broadcasting experiences to children receiving care in hospitals.
Hobson is encouraging his listeners, along with supporters throughout North Carolina, the United States, and internationally, to participate in the public voting process.
“Every vote represents somebody taking a moment to believe in what we’re building. Whether you’ve been listening for years or you’re just discovering The RH3 Show, I am grateful for your support. This journey has never been about one person. It’s about the people, the stories, and the connections we make along the way.”
How to support Rufus
Supporters can cast a free daily vote at https://tophost.org/2026/rufus-hobson-iii.
The current Top 5 voting round concludes Thursday at 10 p.m. Additional votes may be available through optional donations supporting the competition’s charitable beneficiary. A donation is not required to cast a free vote.
