New Media Seminar 2009
NEW YORK – Set for June 5-6 at the modern Concierge Conference Center in New York City, the 12th annual installment of TALKERS magazine’s New Media Seminar is shaping up to be one of the most forward thinking in the pre-eminent talk media convention’s colorful history. Squarely targeting broadcasters’ concerns about surviving the perfect storm of recession and techno-cultural change while prospering in a new era of unlimited opportunity, this conference is being designed to provide its attendees with a productive, educational, inspirational and networking experience.
According to conference director Michael Harrison, “This year’s NMS is about keeping and creating jobs, starting new businesses, integrating old media with new media, trailblazing entrepreneurial opportunities and keeping the First Amendment alive. It will feature an impressive array of speakers, panels, workshops, exhibits and networking galas in two high-powered days of non-stop information. We put a lot of thought, hard work and careful planning each year into organizing what we always envision as nothing less than the perfect media conference for the times. Plus, with 2009 being a serious recession year in which the industry is facing unprecedented challenges, we feel a heightened sense of responsibility and urgency to present something truly helpful and of value.”
Conference highlights include:
• Keynote address by Premiere Radio Networks and Fox News Channel superstar Sean Hannity on “What’s Next for Conservative News/Talk Radio?” As we pass through the early days of the Obama era, and a new political environment unfolds, conservative news/talk hosts are faced with a number of challenges in mapping out positions and strategies. It will be fascinating to hear what one of the two most listened-to talk show hosts in America sees for this vital segment of the industry, as well as radio in general, as he shares his front-line perspective. Sean Hannity will be introduced by Citadel Media talk superstar and best-selling author Mark Levin.
• Solo presentations. Legendary consultant and industry pioneer Walter Sabo of Sabo Media/HitViews speaks about the phenomenal rise of superstar grass roots video programmers and marketers on the internet and lessons that can be drawn from them by radio broadcasters; successful consultant and industry visionary Holland Cooke of McVay Media speaks about broadcasters’ need to develop a career Plan B; talk radio maverick Ed Schultz of MSNBC/Dial Global speaks about the state of progressive talk media and his own personal career odyssey from Fargo to 30 Rock; Montel Williams of Air America Media speaks about his transition from talk television to talk radio and his multi-media original perspective on progressive broadcasting; Talk Radio Network president of programming Phil Boyce speaks and presents research about the growth and enormous potential of the news/talk format on FM; and internationally famous travel reporter/expert and best-selling author Peter Greenberg of Syndicated Solutions speaks about making money while maintaining journalistic credibility without selling out to advertisers or commercial interests.
• Digital Media Workshop. By popular demand, this wildly acclaimed segment of the past two New Media Seminars, directed by Ellen Ratner and featuring a lineup of internet wizards, has been expanded to three hours. It provides talk broadcasters with everything they need to know –– right up to the present second –– about the internet, including harnessing the power of social networking, the whys and wherefores of intelligent podcasting and enhancing the effectiveness of a website. And, yes, “monetizing” these systems!
• Fox News Channel presentation of its leading-edge innovation, the Strategy Room. This will be the first time Fox will publicly bring broadcasters behind the scenes to explain the workings and theory underlying its eight-hours-per-day online experiment that could prove to be the precursor of where both radio and television are heading in the not-so-distant future.
• The Washington Times presentation of its amazing evolution into 21st century journalism and the emergence of the “media station” concept from the newspaper perspective. Times publisher Tom McDevitt and media expert John Solomon will talk about the exciting new relationship emerging between newspapers and radio/television, giving attendees a keen insight into a major arena in which talk practitioners will all be playing to one degree or another.
• Timely and informative panel discussions. Panels this year include: “The State of Terrestrial Talk Radio,” “Making Money with Talk,” “Life on the Frontier: Pioneers of Internet Talk,” “FM Talk Radio: The Invasion is Now,” and the legendary “Talk Rumble.” These panels will feature a diverse array of industry luminaries and experts (see www.talkers.com for ongoing updates of participants).
• Major networking opportunities. As attendees of past seminars can attest, the NMS isn’t all sessions and work. It features gala parties, great food and refreshments and fabulous one-on-one opportunities to make valuable connections. Stories abound about career- (and life-) changing encounters at the NMS over the years. There might be a recession going on but you won’t be able to tell as attendees will be generously lavished with opening and closing night cocktail bashes (sponsored by Talk Radio Network and Air America Media respectively), the now-famous Hannity After Hours wine and dessert party (sponsored by Premiere Radio Networks), the Freedom of Speech luncheon (sponsored by Altria and Young American Broadcasters) and Saturday morning brunch (sponsored by Rosland Capital).
• Exhibits of new products and services. Attendees will see the latest equipment and talk with experts from such industry leaders as Comrex Corporation, Broadcasters General Store, C. Crane Company and Talk Radio News Service among others. A variety of public policy organizations such as Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), Americans for Free Choice in Medicine, and The People Decide among others will also be exhibiting their services and materials.
• Live broadcasts. A number of radio shows, stations and networks will originate their programs from the heart of the action at the NMS. Call 413-739-8255 to inquire about opportunities to be a part of this year’s NMS Radio Row.
Lionel to serve as emcee
Reprising his memorable role as emcee back in 2007, Air America talk star Lionel will again serve in 2009 as New Media Seminar official emcee demonstrating his iconoclastic wit during Saturday morning opening remarks and his satirical skills recapping the conference at the Farewell Bash.
Award recipients selected
The TALKERS magazine editorial board has selected the 2009 recipients of the three major industry awards presented at the New Media Seminar as follows:
The Freedom of Speech Award will be presented to Rush Limbaugh, who is now the first two-time recipient of the prestigious honor, for the massive attention he garnered in the mainstream press as a result of statements made on the air critical of the President of the United States and particular branches of the Federal government that went on to spark a national dialogue and debate –– a process that reflects the very heart of the First Amendment. TALKERS magazine’s editorial board released the following statement of purpose in making the selection, “The granting of this award neither endorses nor repudiates the recipient’s philosophy and opinions. Its sole function is to recognize the significance of the recipient’s contribution during the past year to keeping the principles of the First Amendment viable through highly visible example and practice.” The award will be presented by TALKERS magazine publisher Michael Harrison at a brief ceremony following the Freedom of Speech luncheon. The ceremony will open with the presentation of the annual State of the First Amendment address. This year’s presenter is Radio America syndicated talk host Roger Hedgecock. This speech is traditionally presented by a broadcaster considered by the editorial board to be one of the strong runners up for the Freedom of Speech Award. Last year’s presenter was Salem Radio Network’s Michael Medved. Roger Hedgecock will be introduced by Brian Jennings, former Citadel Media programming executive and author of the popular new book about the Fairness Doctrine, Censored (Simon & Schuster).
The Judy Jarvis Memorial Award for Outstanding Contributions to Talk Radio by a Woman will be presented to WTKK-FM, Boston program director Grace Blazer. She is being honored for her achievements in talk programming management. Grace Blazer rose through the ranks to become program director at CBS O&O WPHT, Philadelphia where she served successfully as one of only a handful of females to hold that position in the nation. She then assumed the same position at Greater Media’s WTKK-FM, Boston where she is now at the forefront of pioneering a new localism in talk radio as well as being a field general in the news/talk invasion of the FM band. The award will be presented to Grace Blazer by last year’s recipient, Talk Radio Network superstar Laura Ingraham, at the Friday evening opening cocktail reception.
The Sharon L. Harrison Memorial Award for Outstanding Community Service by a Radio Talk Show Host will be presented to WZFG, Fargo owner and talk show host Scott Hennen. Hennen, supported by his dedicated staff and a team of volunteer community leaders, has used the influence of his 50k station and personal organizational skills to spearhead the “2009 Flood Fight” –– a remarkable multifaceted (and ongoing) community service campaign that is making a huge difference in helping the people of the region afflicted by the Red River floods. His work has achieved national attention and has been acclaimed by government officials as serving as a model for communities around America to respond to future disasters. The award will be presented to Scott Hennen by Dr. Joy Browne at the Freedom of Speech luncheon.
More than 60 speakers
The New Media Seminar presents as many official speakers as some industry conferences have total attendees. In addition to the above named participants, this year’s roster of speakers includes (in alphabetical order): Gary Baumgarten, Mike Baxendale, Jim Bohannon, Kevin Casey, Mark Chernoff, Monica Crowley, Blanquita Cullum, James Davis, James Derby, Jerry Doyle, Ann Druyan, Ben Ferguson, Roberta Gale, Jessica Gillette, Dom Giordano, Steven Goldstein, Rebecca Hagelin, Matthew B. Harrison, Michael Harrison, Ron Hartenbaum, Thom Hartmann, Gabe Hobbs, Jim Horn, Eric Johnson, Scott Lakefield, Jack Landreth, Lars Larson, Andrew Lee, Steve Malzberg, Mancow, Carole Marks, Mark Masters, John O’ Brien, Dan Patterson, Mark Pfeifle, Jack Rice, Nicole Sandler, Curtis Sliwa, Doug Stephan, Alan Stock, Cenk Uygur; Steven J.J. Weisman, Andrew Wright, Larry Young and many more to be announced (see www.talkers.com for continual updates and additions).
Registration and hotel
The New Media Seminar is always a sellout and registrations are not sold at the door. It is therefore advisable to register as early as possible. The $395 fee covers all NMS events including panels, sessions, workshops, speeches, exhibits, meals, refreshments and parties. Registration can be done with a credit card by calling 413-739- 8255 or online at the link below.
The official hotel of New Media Seminar 2009 is the beautiful and historic Marriott New York East Side, conveniently located right around the corner from the conference center.
Sponsors and promotional opportunities
Sponsors of New Media Seminar 2009 include (in alphabetical order): Air America Media, Altria, Allen Hunt Show, Americans for Free Choice in Medicine, Ayn Rand Institute, Broadcasters General Store, C. Crane Company, Comrex Corporation, Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), Free Talk Live, GuestBooker.com, Sean Hannity, Harrison Strategies, Hit Views, Newsmax, The People Decide, PM Direct, PodJockey, Radio America, Rosland Capital, Sandy Frazier PR, Silas Media, Stephan Multimedia, Talk Radio First Amendment Committee, Talk Radio Network, Talk Radio News Service, The Washington Times, Young American Broadcasters and Zwerling Broadcasting System.
As of press time, sponsorships and promotional opportunities are still available. For information call 413-739-8255.
Register online now! Click here.
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NEW YORK – Set for June 5-6 at the modern Concierge Conference Center in New York City, the 12th annual installment of TALKERS magazine’s New Media Seminar is shaping up to be one of the most forward thinking in the pre-eminent talk media convention’s colorful history. Squarely targeting broadcasters’ concerns about surviving the perfect storm of recession and techno-cultural change while prospering in a new era of unlimited opportunity, this conference is being designed to provide its attendees with a productive, educational, inspirational and networking experience.
According to conference director Michael Harrison, “This year’s NMS is about keeping and creating jobs, starting new businesses, integrating old media with new media, trailblazing entrepreneurial opportunities and keeping the First Amendment alive. It will feature an impressive array of speakers, panels, workshops, exhibits and networking galas in two high-powered days of non-stop information. We put a lot of thought, hard work and careful planning each year into organizing what we always envision as nothing less than the perfect media conference for the times. Plus, with 2009 being a serious recession year in which the industry is facing unprecedented challenges, we feel a heightened sense of responsibility and urgency to present something truly helpful and of value.”
Conference highlights include:
• Keynote address by Premiere Radio Networks and Fox News Channel superstar Sean Hannity on “What’s Next for Conservative News/Talk Radio?” As we pass through the early days of the Obama era, and a new political environment unfolds, conservative news/talk hosts are faced with a number of challenges in mapping out positions and strategies. It will be fascinating to hear what one of the two most listened-to talk show hosts in America sees for this vital segment of the industry, as well as radio in general, as he shares his front-line perspective. Sean Hannity will be introduced by Citadel Media talk superstar and best-selling author Mark Levin.
• Solo presentations. Legendary consultant and industry pioneer Walter Sabo of Sabo Media/HitViews speaks about the phenomenal rise of superstar grass roots video programmers and marketers on the internet and lessons that can be drawn from them by radio broadcasters; successful consultant and industry visionary Holland Cooke of McVay Media speaks about broadcasters’ need to develop a career Plan B; talk radio maverick Ed Schultz of MSNBC/Dial Global speaks about the state of progressive talk media and his own personal career odyssey from Fargo to 30 Rock; Montel Williams of Air America Media speaks about his transition from talk television to talk radio and his multi-media original perspective on progressive broadcasting; Talk Radio Network president of programming Phil Boyce speaks and presents research about the growth and enormous potential of the news/talk format on FM; and internationally famous travel reporter/expert and best-selling author Peter Greenberg of Syndicated Solutions speaks about making money while maintaining journalistic credibility without selling out to advertisers or commercial interests.
• Digital Media Workshop. By popular demand, this wildly acclaimed segment of the past two New Media Seminars, directed by Ellen Ratner and featuring a lineup of internet wizards, has been expanded to three hours. It provides talk broadcasters with everything they need to know –– right up to the present second –– about the internet, including harnessing the power of social networking, the whys and wherefores of intelligent podcasting and enhancing the effectiveness of a website. And, yes, “monetizing” these systems!
• Fox News Channel presentation of its leading-edge innovation, the Strategy Room. This will be the first time Fox will publicly bring broadcasters behind the scenes to explain the workings and theory underlying its eight-hours-per-day online experiment that could prove to be the precursor of where both radio and television are heading in the not-so-distant future.
• The Washington Times presentation of its amazing evolution into 21st century journalism and the emergence of the “media station” concept from the newspaper perspective. Times publisher Tom McDevitt and media expert John Solomon will talk about the exciting new relationship emerging between newspapers and radio/television, giving attendees a keen insight into a major arena in which talk practitioners will all be playing to one degree or another.
• Timely and informative panel discussions. Panels this year include: “The State of Terrestrial Talk Radio,” “Making Money with Talk,” “Life on the Frontier: Pioneers of Internet Talk,” “FM Talk Radio: The Invasion is Now,” and the legendary “Talk Rumble.” These panels will feature a diverse array of industry luminaries and experts (see www.talkers.com for ongoing updates of participants).
• Major networking opportunities. As attendees of past seminars can attest, the NMS isn’t all sessions and work. It features gala parties, great food and refreshments and fabulous one-on-one opportunities to make valuable connections. Stories abound about career- (and life-) changing encounters at the NMS over the years. There might be a recession going on but you won’t be able to tell as attendees will be generously lavished with opening and closing night cocktail bashes (sponsored by Talk Radio Network and Air America Media respectively), the now-famous Hannity After Hours wine and dessert party (sponsored by Premiere Radio Networks), the Freedom of Speech luncheon (sponsored by Altria and Young American Broadcasters) and Saturday morning brunch (sponsored by Rosland Capital).
• Exhibits of new products and services. Attendees will see the latest equipment and talk with experts from such industry leaders as Comrex Corporation, Broadcasters General Store, C. Crane Company and Talk Radio News Service among others. A variety of public policy organizations such as Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), Americans for Free Choice in Medicine, and The People Decide among others will also be exhibiting their services and materials.
• Live broadcasts. A number of radio shows, stations and networks will originate their programs from the heart of the action at the NMS. Call 413-739-8255 to inquire about opportunities to be a part of this year’s NMS Radio Row.
Lionel to serve as emcee
Reprising his memorable role as emcee back in 2007, Air America talk star Lionel will again serve in 2009 as New Media Seminar official emcee demonstrating his iconoclastic wit during Saturday morning opening remarks and his satirical skills recapping the conference at the Farewell Bash.
Award recipients selected
The TALKERS magazine editorial board has selected the 2009 recipients of the three major industry awards presented at the New Media Seminar as follows:
The Freedom of Speech Award will be presented to Rush Limbaugh, who is now the first two-time recipient of the prestigious honor, for the massive attention he garnered in the mainstream press as a result of statements made on the air critical of the President of the United States and particular branches of the Federal government that went on to spark a national dialogue and debate –– a process that reflects the very heart of the First Amendment. TALKERS magazine’s editorial board released the following statement of purpose in making the selection, “The granting of this award neither endorses nor repudiates the recipient’s philosophy and opinions. Its sole function is to recognize the significance of the recipient’s contribution during the past year to keeping the principles of the First Amendment viable through highly visible example and practice.” The award will be presented by TALKERS magazine publisher Michael Harrison at a brief ceremony following the Freedom of Speech luncheon. The ceremony will open with the presentation of the annual State of the First Amendment address. This year’s presenter is Radio America syndicated talk host Roger Hedgecock. This speech is traditionally presented by a broadcaster considered by the editorial board to be one of the strong runners up for the Freedom of Speech Award. Last year’s presenter was Salem Radio Network’s Michael Medved. Roger Hedgecock will be introduced by Brian Jennings, former Citadel Media programming executive and author of the popular new book about the Fairness Doctrine, Censored (Simon & Schuster).
The Judy Jarvis Memorial Award for Outstanding Contributions to Talk Radio by a Woman will be presented to WTKK-FM, Boston program director Grace Blazer. She is being honored for her achievements in talk programming management. Grace Blazer rose through the ranks to become program director at CBS O&O WPHT, Philadelphia where she served successfully as one of only a handful of females to hold that position in the nation. She then assumed the same position at Greater Media’s WTKK-FM, Boston where she is now at the forefront of pioneering a new localism in talk radio as well as being a field general in the news/talk invasion of the FM band. The award will be presented to Grace Blazer by last year’s recipient, Talk Radio Network superstar Laura Ingraham, at the Friday evening opening cocktail reception.
The Sharon L. Harrison Memorial Award for Outstanding Community Service by a Radio Talk Show Host will be presented to WZFG, Fargo owner and talk show host Scott Hennen. Hennen, supported by his dedicated staff and a team of volunteer community leaders, has used the influence of his 50k station and personal organizational skills to spearhead the “2009 Flood Fight” –– a remarkable multifaceted (and ongoing) community service campaign that is making a huge difference in helping the people of the region afflicted by the Red River floods. His work has achieved national attention and has been acclaimed by government officials as serving as a model for communities around America to respond to future disasters. The award will be presented to Scott Hennen by Dr. Joy Browne at the Freedom of Speech luncheon.
More than 60 speakers
The New Media Seminar presents as many official speakers as some industry conferences have total attendees. In addition to the above named participants, this year’s roster of speakers includes (in alphabetical order): Gary Baumgarten, Mike Baxendale, Jim Bohannon, Kevin Casey, Mark Chernoff, Monica Crowley, Blanquita Cullum, James Davis, James Derby, Jerry Doyle, Ann Druyan, Ben Ferguson, Roberta Gale, Jessica Gillette, Dom Giordano, Steven Goldstein, Rebecca Hagelin, Matthew B. Harrison, Michael Harrison, Ron Hartenbaum, Thom Hartmann, Gabe Hobbs, Jim Horn, Eric Johnson, Scott Lakefield, Jack Landreth, Lars Larson, Andrew Lee, Steve Malzberg, Mancow, Carole Marks, Mark Masters, John O’ Brien, Dan Patterson, Mark Pfeifle, Jack Rice, Nicole Sandler, Curtis Sliwa, Doug Stephan, Alan Stock, Cenk Uygur; Steven J.J. Weisman, Andrew Wright, Larry Young and many more to be announced (see www.talkers.com for continual updates and additions).
Registration and hotel
The New Media Seminar is always a sellout and registrations are not sold at the door. It is therefore advisable to register as early as possible. The $395 fee covers all NMS events including panels, sessions, workshops, speeches, exhibits, meals, refreshments and parties. Registration can be done with a credit card by calling 413-739- 8255 or online at the link below.
The official hotel of New Media Seminar 2009 is the beautiful and historic Marriott New York East Side, conveniently located right around the corner from the conference center.
Sponsors and promotional opportunities
Sponsors of New Media Seminar 2009 include (in alphabetical order): Air America Media, Altria, Allen Hunt Show, Americans for Free Choice in Medicine, Ayn Rand Institute, Broadcasters General Store, C. Crane Company, Comrex Corporation, Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), Free Talk Live, GuestBooker.com, Sean Hannity, Harrison Strategies, Hit Views, Newsmax, The People Decide, PM Direct, PodJockey, Radio America, Rosland Capital, Sandy Frazier PR, Silas Media, Stephan Multimedia, Talk Radio First Amendment Committee, Talk Radio Network, Talk Radio News Service, The Washington Times, Young American Broadcasters and Zwerling Broadcasting System.
As of press time, sponsorships and promotional opportunities are still available. For information call 413-739-8255.
Register online now! Click here.
