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The Madison Avenue Field GuideA field guide to marketing & advertising, by Brandon Mina

GlossaryCTV, Video & AudioTime Spent Listening (TSL)

CTV, Video & Audio

Time Spent Listening (TSL)

The average amount of time a listener spends tuned to a station or audio service over a given period.

By Brandon MinaCEO, BrandPilot AIUpdated November 2026

Short answer

Time spent listening (TSL) is the average amount of time a listener spends tuned to a radio station or audio service over a given period, such as a week or daypart. It reflects audience loyalty and engagement, and together with cume, or total reach, it helps determine a station's average audience and advertising value.