Meredith Corp. announced today that Learfield Communications Inc. is purchasing an ownership stake in the “Living the Country Life” brand. The new company will be managed jointly by the two companies under the name Living the Country Life LLC, but Meredith will maintain controlling interest.

The brand includes a magazine with a distribution of more than 200,000 targeted households; a weekly television show on RFD-TV; a Web site, www.livingthecountrylife.com; and a database of consumers who fit the affluent rural lifestyle category. The new business will combine Living the Country Life’s current products with a nationally syndicated radio program.

“This joint venture is an exciting opportunity for the Living the Country Life brand to expand its reach through Learfield’s extensive radio experience and distribution network,” said Tom Davis, group publisher for Meredith. “They have an outstanding record in producing marketing synergies through proven radio programming, and are experienced in working with partners to create value for consumers and advertisers alike.”

Meredith’s Julie Schwalbe will lead the group as general manager. Betsy Freese, current editor of Living the Country Life, will serve as editor in chief of the joint venture and oversee all content operations for print, television, radio and the Internet.