Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Audacy’s Cadence13 podcast studio launches, “WEAPONIZED with Jeremy Corbell & George Knapp,” a multi-platform, investigative podcast series hosted by investigative filmmaker Jeremy Corbell and award-winning investigative journalist George Knapp in which they “pull back the veil on the world of the known to explore the world of the unexplained. They break news and share never-before-seen footage, previously suppressed documents, original recordings, and hard evidence related to UFOs, the paranormal, cutting-edge science, cover-ups, conspiracies, and big-time crimes.”

The nationally syndicated travel show “RMWorldTravel” starring Robert and Mary Carey officially surpasses the 500-station mark and is now heard on 510 affiliate stations across the U.S.

The Weather Channel and Skyview Networks announce the expansion of their partnership with the inclusion of SnoCountry Ski Reports. With this expansion, The Weather Channel and SnoCountry will utilize Skyview Networks’ network audio sales platforms and regionalization capabilities to provide winter ski reports to unique geographic audiences, giving listeners valuable ski resort conditions through the winter season.

SiriusXM PGA TOUR Radio is broadcasting from this year’s PGA Show in Orlando today (1/24) through Friday (1/27). The PGA Show is not open to the public and SiriusXM’s hosts will share with their audience insight into the latest in golf instruction, equipment, apparel and more. Listeners will also hear one-on-one interviews with many of the PGA Professionals in attendance at the event.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (1/23) Top News/Talk Media Stories

The ongoing special counsel investigation into the government documents in the possession of President Joe Biden; the two mass shootings in Northern California that have claimed the lives of 18 people; the battle between the Biden administration and House Republicans over raising the United States’ debt ceiling; today’s court hearing of arguments over whether to publicly release the grand jury report on allegations former President Donald Trump and his allies tried to overturn the 2020 Georgia election results; the debate in Europe over supplying Ukraine with tanks to fight Russia; the precarious state of Republican Congressman George Santos’ political career as questions about campaign funding are raised; and the NFL’s Divisional playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry Views

How to Justify Your Ad Rates

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

Why did the chicken cross the road?  To go to the bank!

Have you been to the supermarket lately? The dairy section where eggs are typically available is looking more and more empty. I shop at the biggest supermarket chain in Florida where a dozen and half eggs cost $8.70, or $5.70 a dozen.

The price of a dozen large eggs has gone up from around $2 to nearly $5. So where are all those rich chickens? Some families are raising their own chickens to beat the high cost of eggs. Others are looking for alternatives to the traditional supply chain, like buying eggs directly from the farm. Talk about adopting the farm-to-table concept! Why haven’t we all adopted an alternative to that simple protein packed egg? Later for the nutrition questions and suggestions, for now let’s learn the basic lessons in this game of chicken or the expensive egg.

1)         Classic supply and demand. Welcome, Captain Obvious. Demand stays constant, supply goes down, prices go up. What’s in your pricing formula?

2)         We are creatures of habit. Unless you have an allergy or other medical prohibition, chances are you’ve been eating eggs as a source of protein since childhood. Most will pay more to stay with the same tried-and-true rather research an alternative. How are you motivating your prospects to move away from habitual buying to trying your station/concept today?

3)         What happens when supply improves? Once accustomed to paying more, we may never see that $2 dozen again. Let’s face it, most radio stations never sell out 100% of their inventory. So how do you keep that value proposition high year-round through various economic cycles.

4)         One year in the making. The price of those now expensive eggs increased 60% in a year. Do you have a mid-term or long-term strategy or are you still stuck on making the month?

5)         The rationale. Our skyrocketing price of eggs is being reported as the result of an avian flu. Almost anyone can understand that cause and effect equation. How about your sales strategy? Is yours that easy to understand?

Maybe this “eggcersize” seems a bit of a stretch. But consider this simple reality. The price of almost everything has increased, yet my radio friends still struggle with price management. It’s the same for almost every audio-based medium. Let’s not chicken out of the innovative pricing approaches we need during this challenging economy.

Steve Lapa is the president of Lapcom Communications Corp. based in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Lapcom is a media sales, marketing, and development consultancy. Contact Steve Lapa via email at: Steve@Lapcomventures.com

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Baseball Bonanza

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

As The Beatles sang, “It’s been a long, cold, lonely winter.” Baseball – even Spring Training while it’s still chilly in March – says “Here Comes the Sun.” That’s what baseball means… to listeners.

To local advertisers, it’s an opportunity for The Little Guy to sound big. In the words of one GM – who has made a pile of money selling baseball – “It’s ego and envy.”

Sales: It’s a thing, not a number

 The sponsorship package cannot be quantified on a-cost-per-ANYTHING basis. It’s not “efficient” in agency terms, but baseball is powerful “reputation appropriation.” Translation: Advertisers can tell the world they’re big-enough for baseball.

— The rapid-response plumber, the roofing repair guy, and the lumber yard or hardware store or any independent local retailer slugging-it-out against big box competitors can be part of the Astros or the Braves or the Cardinals or the Dodgers or the Rangers or the Giants brand.

— Low-hanging fruit: Prospects who are, personally, fans. For decades, we’ve been telling reps at conservative talk stations to pitch businesses that fly big American flags. So which local retailers do you know to be baseball fanatics?

— Milk the value-added stuff affiliates get. Include some tickets in the package. Take ‘em to a game and bring ‘em up to the broadcast booth for a selfie with the radio team. Can you rent a sky box for a game and throw a client party?

— Make a list of guys-who-own-guy-stuff businesses. Home improvement and auto repair have always been opportune.

— Second and third-generation retailers might family-feud about other things. But grandfather AND father AND son can agree on this expenditure lots quicker than you can get consensus about a ROS spot package on “Kiss” or “Lite” or “Magic.”

— Baseball is a high-affinity branding opportunity. I don’t know when I will need to buy a tire…because nails lurk. But I already know where I’ll buy it, because they advertise in Red Sox games. And get this! All year long, that particular advertiser says, in all his commercials, in a thick Boston accent, “You go, Red Saux!”

— Warm list: Who’s advertising on stadium signage? That’s an ego clue. But it’s just branding. Radio can add-value to that expense by “telling your story,” and adding a call-to-action.

— Baseball = beer, so prospect DUI defense attorneys, and auto body shops. 😉

— Reps: You’re not calling from KXXX. You’re calling from Padres Radio. The team logo is in your email and sales material.

— Way-back-when: As Mickey Mantle launched one into the cheap seats, Mel Allen would proclaim it “another Ballentine Blast!” Back to the future: I’ve been at games where everyone there got a free something because the team did such-and-such. Can you invent a cool feature for local sponsorship? Every listener who says they heard ___ gets free ____ the next day.

IMPORTANT: Update copy as the season progresses. This is a franchise, not plug-N-play programming that babysits nights and weekends. Nothing says auto-pilot and disserves clients like spots and promos that crow “Baseball is back!” in July.

I was the Motor-Mouth Manager

War story: I programmed WTOP, Washington in the 1980s, long before there were Washington Nationals. We were your Orioles Baseball Station; and I was managing a union shop…but I ended up joining AFTRA because our announcers were newscasters who couldn’t say “Mid-Atlantic Milk Marketing Association” as rapidly as I, an ex-1970s Top 40 DJ.

— So – believe it or not – the company paid my initiation fee. And every time there was a change in that 65 seconds-of-copy-crammed-into the 60-second opening billboard that ticked-off all the sponsors, I got ‘em all in, and I got $10-something in my Pension & Welfare Fund. Sweet. But I digress…

— To OUR ear, that whole word salad sounds hellishly rushed. But to ADVERTISERS, it’s like having your caricature on the wall at the see-and-be-seen steak house. Every business named there is a someone, associated with everyone else there. They’re part of a local Orioles or Mariners or Mets Baseball Who’s Who. And everyone who isn’t isn’t.

— I’ve been on calls with reps closing baseball packages because “It’s worth it just for the promos!” So, include sponsor mentions in ROS promos.

— That said, sell enough in-game frequency to be heard. Two or three spots per game won’t be.

Next week: Avoiding the most common error I hear baseball stations make.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books; and “Spot-On: Commercial Copy Points That Earned The Benjamins,” a FREE download; and the E-book and FREE on-air radio features Inflation Hacks: Save Those Benjamins.” Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

Andrew Giuliani Joins WABC’s On-Air Team

77 WABC Radio announces that Andrew Giuliani, son of former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani and Donna Hanover, joins the on-air staff at the station. Andrew Giuliani will be a contributing friend on “Sid & Friends In the Morning,” hosted by Sid Rosenberg. In addition, Giuliani will also guest co-host the 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm “Cats At Night” show hosted by Red Apple Media CEO and WABC owner John Catsimatidis. Catsimatidis states, “I’m happy to welcome Andrew to our WABC family. After working in the White House and taking a run at the governorship of New York, Andrew brings an insider’s perspective on national, state, and local political issues to WABC Radio and its listeners.” Giuliani says, “It’s an honor to be a part of the #1 news/talk station in New York. WABC Radio is a combination of its rich history and incredible rebirth. I’m excited to get on the air and connect with the WABC Radio listeners in New York and around the world.” Giuliani was a special assistant to the president and associate director of the Office of Public Liaison during the Trump administration. In his position, he interfaced between the White House and business, nonprofit, and other groups, meeting with President Donald Trump up to four times a week. He also represented his office in White House meetings on the opioid crisis. A lifelong New Yorker, Giuliani ran for governor of New York in 2021.

Industry News

SRN’s Greg Clugston Covers 50th March for Life

Pictured above is Salem radio Network White House correspondent Greg Clugston (left) covering the 50th annual March for Life in Washington, DC over the weekend. Clugston is interviewing Scott Coburn (right), chief marketing officer for conservative Christian mobile phone company Patriot Mobile, who was among the participants in the march.

Industry News

The Weekend’s Top News/Talk Media Stories

The discovery of more classified documents at President Joe Biden’s home in Wilmington, Delaware; 10 people are slain by a lone gunman at a Lunar New Year party in Monterey Park, California; the battle in congress to raise the U.S.’s debt ceiling; Biden is expected to name Jeff Zients his new chief of staff after Ron Klain exits the post; immigration and security at the U.S.-Mexico border; the international debate over arming Ukraine in its defense against Russia; and the NFL playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Westwood One Unveils NFL Postseason Audience Data

Cumulus Media | Westwood One’s Audio Active Group releases its comprehensive analysis of the NFL postseason audience using 2022 data from Nielsen Scarborough USA+ and MRI Simmons USA. WWO says, “The data revealed that the AM/FM radio audience is far more passionate about football compared to the more casual sports fan found in the TV audience.” Westwood One is the official network radio partner of the NFL, and this year’s Super Bowl coverage marks the 50th time that the network will broadcast the game. Some of the key takeaways from this study are: 1) NFL postseason AM/FM radio listeners are a desirable group of consumers: They are more likely to work full time and have higher disposable incomes compared to NFL postseason TV viewers; 2) The NFL postseason AM/FM radio audience is more engaged with sports: MRI Simmons finds NFL postseason AM/FM radio listeners attend more sporting events, seek out sports information on their phones more often, and play more fantasy sports than NFL postseason TV watchers. The higher levels of engagement translate into greater advertising effectiveness; and 3) NFL postseason AM/FM radio listeners are more likely to make purchases across key consumer categories: Compared to the NFL postseason TV audience, AM/FM radio delivers more consumers who are likely to buy a new or used vehicle, start a new business, or hire a financial advisor.  You can see the complete report here.

Industry News

RTDNA to Present “How to Win a Murrow” Webinar

The RTDNA is presenting a webinar on Tuesday, January 24 from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm ET that answers the question: “Besides doing excellent work, are there things you can do to improve your chances at winning an Edward R. Murrow award?” The webinar is titled “How to Win a Murrow: Tips & Tricks Webinar – All you need to know to win an Edward R. Murrow Award. ” It is being presented by RTDNA director of awards programs Kate McGarrity, the RTDNA Awards committee, and experienced Murrow judges and winners. The RTDNA says, “We will answer your questions about the entry process, judging criteria, and how to put your best foot forward with your entries. See what’s new and different for 2023. Learn the secrets of putting together a compelling entry, the most common mistakes to avoid, and judges’ pet peeves. Anyone involved in the entry process will gain valuable insights to get you set up for success this entry season.” You can find out more and register here.

Industry News

WBAP, Dallas-Fort Worth Host Hal Jay Awaiting Heart Transplant

Dallas-Fort Worth morning radio personality Hal Jay is currently in Baylor Scott & White University Medical Center awaiting heart transplant. On Monday of this week, Jay called in to the WBAP morning show to speak with hosts Ernie Brown and Brad Barton and to explain to listeners why he was not in the studio. He said, “Last Tuesday night (1/10), I had a ventricular tachycardia event and fell to the floor, and my cardiologist Dr. Shaw, had me transferred to Baylor Scott & White University Medical Center.” He spent the week at the hospital continuing to rest and undergo testing as doctors monitored the situation. But Saturday night (1/14), he had another ventricular tachycardia event. Jay says, “I asked the doctor, ‘How sick am I?’ And he said you are really sick; your heart is done.” Jay has been placed on the heart transplant list. Of the four levels of the list, pending severity, Jay is listed as a level two and it is unknown at this time when a transplant will take place. Jay finished his on-air appearance on Monday by thanking listeners for their prayers, mentioning he intends to document his transplant journey, and check in with the “WBAP Morning News” as he is able.

Industry News

Richard E. Wiley to Receive BFoA’s Lifetime Achievement Award

Richard E. Wiley is a former chairman, commissioner, and general counsel of the Federal Communications Commission and one of the most prominent media and telecommunications lawyers. He will be honored with the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Broadcasters Foundation of America during the Golden Mike Award gala on Monday, March 6, at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. The Lifetime Achievement Award honors an individual who has made invaluable contributions to the television and radio industries. BFoA chairman  Scott Herman says, “Dick’s commitment to fight for our industry in Washington has given broadcasters the opportunity to grow their business. His strong belief in our industry has extended to his support of the mission of the Broadcasters Foundation to help those in our business who need it most. We are honored to present him with the Lifetime Achievement Award.” Wiley comments, “I am honored to receive this Lifetime Achievement Award from the Broadcasters Foundation. Since arriving at the FCC more than 50 years ago and co-founding our DC law firm almost 40 years ago, it’s been a privilege to work with broadcasters on landmark innovations including the development of high-definition TV. I’m proud to be a part of this great industry’s evolution, and to support the Foundation’s mission of providing a critical safety net for members of the broadcast profession.” The annual Golden Mike Award gala is a major fundraiser for the Broadcasters Foundation, the only charity devoted exclusively to helping broadcasters in acute need. For information, or to reserve a seat or table at the Golden Mike Award gala and fundraiser, please contact the Broadcasters Foundation at 212-373-8250 or info@thebfoa.org.

Industry News

LiveOne Issues Preliminary Fiscal Q3 Data

LiveOne announces some preliminary financial figures ahead of the official posting of its fiscal year 2023 third quarter report. LiveOne says it has achieved all-time record growth of 160,000 paid members. For the third quarter of fiscal year 2023, the company expects revenue to be $27 million. It adds that the audio division that includes Slacker and PodcastOne will report revenue of $21.6 million for FY/2023 Q3 and for the first nine months of the fiscal year expects to report revenue of $63.5 million. LiveOne previously announced its intent to spin out PodcastOne as a separate, publicly traded company and plans to IPO Slacker this year.

Industry News

Joe Madison to Receive Harriman Award from Red Cross

SiriusXM talk host Joe Madison will receive the Harriman Award for Distinguished Volunteer Service from the American Red Cross at the organization’s Leadership Awards Luncheon taking place in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, April 26, 2023. The Harriman Award for Distinguished Volunteer Service was established in 1973 by E. Roland and Gladys Harriman and is the highest recognition for volunteer service in the American Red Cross. It was designed to promote superior performance among all volunteers and demonstration of extraordinary accomplishments.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Stories for Week of January 16 – 20, 2023

The investigation into President Joe Biden’s possession of government documents by a special counsel was the most-talked-about story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the U.S. debt ceiling and the politics surrounding raising the limit to avoid default, followed by state of the U.S. economy under the Biden administration tied with Microsoft’s announcement of the layoff of 10,000 workers and Google’s laying off of 12,000 workers at #3. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed in news/talk media during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. You can see this week’s complete chart here.

Job Opportunity

KICD, Spencer, Iowa Seeks PD and Morning Host

The Spencer Radio Group – part of Saga Communications – is looking to hire a full-time program director and morning show host for heritage station 1240 AM and 102.5 FM KICD in Spencer, Iowa. For 80 years – KICD-AM has been the “local information source” for northwest Iowa and portions of southwest Minnesota. Here’s what they tell TALKERS: We’re looking for someone with the ability, talent and passion to continue KICD’s long tradition into the future. The person for this position will need to live in Spencer, Iowa (or surrounding area). We need someone who understands small-market, local radio and is willing to be involved in the community. Knowledge of radio automation software, Adobe Audition and general computer experience is preferred. This person should also have previous experience on-air; production/imaging creativity; and website/social media skills. The Spencer Radio Group is owned and operated by Saga Communications – a company that invests back into their stations and their people! SRG offers great benefits including – health, vision, dental and 401K. Send your resume and demo to operations manager Kevin Tlam at ktlam@spencerradiogroup.com. No phone calls. No voicetrack inquiries. Saga Communications of Iowa, LLC is an EOE.

Industry News

WSJS, Winston-Salem Dealing with Effects of Tower Vandalism

According to a report from WXII-TV, Winston-Salem, Truth Broadcasting Corporation’s news/talk/sports WSJS-AM, Winston-Salem is off the air today (1/19) as it works to repair damage to three of its towers that’s taken place over the past five weeks. Truth Broadcasting owner Michael Carbone tells WXII-TV that when the first tower was damaged, they thought bad weather was the culprit. But, after the second tower was affected, they realized that it was intentional and done by someone who knew what they were doing. The report states that after the second tower was damaged “Truth Broadcasting then hired security, and then the morning after security left the third tower was damaged. Police say someone used a tool to cut through parts of the towers anchoring them to the ground. ‘The person who did this had a real good idea of what they were doing,’ Carbone said. ‘Because they picked the point that was the safest to do what they were going to do.’” Police continue to investigate but so far, they have not made any arrests. Carbone says they are working on another location for the WSJS transmitter and hope to return to the air in a few days.

Industry News

Salem Promotes Dan Nelson

Salem Media Group, Inc. announces that it is promoting Dan Nelson to vice president, Salem events and marketing. Nelson has been serving as director, Salem events and marketing since 2018. In his new role Nelson will focus on expanding both Salem Media’s brand image and revenue generation in the area of special events and travel experiences. Salem Media CEO Dave Santrella comments, “Dan and I have worked together since my earliest days at Salem. He always impressed me as one of those people that can take an idea and bring it to life. To this day, I can give Danny just the seed of an idea and the next thing you know he has a full-blown working model. I am thrilled to see Danny get this well-deserved promotion.” Salem Media’s president of broadcast media, Allen Power, adds “Dan has consistently set a high standard for everything he has undertaken. His talents are many including creativity, attention to detail, excellence in follow-through, and giftedness in visual marketing and production. Perhaps, his greatest strength is his ability to work with leaders at literally every level of our company to advance Salem’s brand and image. He does all of this with passion, humility, and a great sense of humor. If you look up the definition of ‘go-to’ person, it’s highly likely you’ll see Dan’s smiling face.”

Industry News

Iverson Joins Key Networks as Senior Account Executive

Key Networks appoints Mike Iverson senior account executive in which he’ll represent Key Networks’ clients, including Bloomberg Radio, to create new sales opportunities and revenue streams for the company. Las Vegas-based Iverson will report directly to Jason Wilberding, president of sales for Key Networks. Iverson most recently served Ryan Seacrest Enterprises as SVP, sales and corporate partnerships. Wilberding says, “Mike is the consummate marketing and sales innovator with excellent relationships spanning his 30-plus years as a broadcast professional. I have worked with Mike at Viacom/CBS, Spanish Broadcasting and iHeart/Premiere, and have competed with him, as well. His creative approach to working with clients makes him an outstanding addition to Key Networks.” Iverson comments, “I’m excited to be a part of the incredible team at Key Networks and to work with a fresh-thinking, entrepreneurial company setting new standards for radio syndication with pre-eminent brands like Bloomberg Radio. It is energizing to have the opportunity to move quickly and effectively for clients in an environment that feels much like a start-up. I’m also thrilled to join forces once again with Jason Wilberding.”

Industry News

Triton Digital Ranks “Crime Junkie” Top U.S. Podcast for December

Triton Digital’s ranking of the top 100 U.S. podcasts from participating networks for the period of December 2022 based on weekly average downloads is published and audiochuck’s “Crime Junkie” is again #1. At #2 again this month is NPR’s “NPR News Now,” followed by NPR’s “Up First” at #3, Wondery’s “Morbid” at #4, NBCUniversal News Group’s “Dateline NBC” at #5 and Cumulus Podcast Network’s “The Ben Shapiro Show” at #6. Podcasts from radio-related companies making the top 20 for the period include: Cumulus Podcast Network’s “The Dan Bongino Show” at #9 and Salem Podcast Network’s “The Charlie Kirk Show” at #17. You can see the complete ranker of the top 100 podcasts here.

Industry News

FOX News Wraps 2022 as Tops in Multiplatform Views and Minutes

According to data from Comscore, FOX News Digital closed out 2022 as the top-performing news brand with multiplatform views and minutes. For the year, FOX News Digital secured more than 18 billion multiplatform views, over 34 billion multiplatform minutes and averaged 82.7 million monthly multiplatform unique visitors. FOX News states that it was also “the most engaged news brand on social media throughout 2022, according to Emplifi, reaching over 445 million social media interactions. FOX News Digital drove 179.7 million Facebook interactions, 49.6 million Twitter interactions and 215.9 million Instagram interactions. On YouTube, FOX News delivered its best year ever, driving over 3.4 billion views, finishing first in the news competitive set.” While FOX News Digital topped rival CNN.com in the multiplatform minutes and multiplatform views category, CNN.com was the leader in multiplatform unique visitors – the digital equivalent of cume – with 124.9 million compared to NYTimes.com’s 89 million and FOX News Digital’s 82.7 million.

Industry News

Veritonic Expands Sales and Product Teams

Audio research and analytics platform Veritonic announces that it welcomes Lindsay Beach, Kate Judge, and Casey Hartigan to the company as sales directors, and Madeline Ngo as head of product. Lindsay Beach joins Veritonic from iHeartMedia where she was VP of connections. Kate Judge was most recently with audio creative company SpokenLayer, and Casey Hartigan was most recently senior director of strategic partnerships at Nativo. Madeline Ngo joins Veritonic from Career.io/Talent Inc where she was director of product management/head of product. Veritonic founder and CEO Scott Simonelli comments, “At Veritonic, we remain committed to providing brands, agencies, and platforms with the technology and data they need to harness the tremendous power of audio, and that starts from within. Our employees are the heart and soul of our company and the value that we provide. We look forward to the contributions that Lindsay, Kate, Casey, and Madeline will bring to the utility and advancement of our platform moving forward.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s (1/18) Hottest News/Talk Media Stories

The U.S. debt ceiling is reached today and the political battle over raising it; the special counsel investigation into President Joe Biden’s possession of government documents; the Supreme Court allows New York’s Concealed Carry Improvement Act to stand; the Biden administration’s softening on providing Ukraine with weapons needed to attack Russian positions in Crimea; the World Economic Forum taking place in Davos, Switzerland; Microsoft announces plans to lay off 10,000 workers; and the weeks of deadly storms that have battered and flooded California were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry Views

Stars and Their Platforms

By Walter Sabo
Host/Producer, Sterling on Sunday
Media Consultant

Lucille Ball earned 50 shares with her classic TV series, “I Love Lucy.” Every year during her summer hiatus she would make a movie. Name a Lucille Ball movie.

Lucy was the all-time star of television but couldn’t open a movie. Each medium creates its own stars and rarely does a star transfer from one medium to another.

Some examples: “NYPD Blue” first season star David Caruso couldn’t wait to break out from TV and become a movie star. He recently retired from 10 years of work on the TV show “CSI Miami.” Exceptions? Maybe three: Michael J FoxWill SmithSteve McQueen.

The phenomenon of single medium stardom is true throughout all crafts. Great magazine writers struggle to turn in a publishable book. Book authors are challenged to condense their thoughts to 1,000 words. Megyn Kelly is a cable star but couldn’t cross the golden bridge to broadcast TV.

Every year a local TV weather person bugs the local talk station to fill-in on a talk show over a holiday. How does it go? Beware the fifth minute. After five minutes all of the passionate feelings the TV talent has about their pet topic have been expressed. With two hours and 55 minutes to go, the local weatherman is in trouble hosting an unscripted radio show. Where is the prompter? Where are the phone calls? But put a radio morning host on TV and the results are just as awful. The radio host looks fat because they have no idea how to dress for TV, they don’t understand the cue lights on the cameras and the prompter is confusing.

Which brings us to the relationship between radio and podcasting

One of the burdensome falsehoods of the moment is that radio talent should be churning out original content podcasts. It’s just audio right? Radio is good at talking! Podcasting has fostered its own stable of stars including Joe RoganAdam CarollaAnna Farris and Ben Shapiro (I know he’s a radio guy, but he’s a better podcaster). To a listener, the production styles of a podcast and live radio are strikingly similar, but you know that the production environments are completely different. Talent who intuitively understand on-demand audience preferences thrive hosting commercial-free podcasts. Radio talent excel within the disposable, often-interrupted flow of a live broadcast. Podcasts allow for thinking time, pausing, editing, correcting and fancy production beds. Live radio? You just better get to the next thing. The mindset of a podcast star versus a radio star must of necessity be appropriate to their unique performance stage.

Most radio managers have met with resistance when asking their talent to make original content podcasts. (Not air checks.) Radio talent is right to resist! Creating a very good radio show is demanding and often exhausting. After three or more hours on the air, no performer has the energy to hop into a production chair and attract a million downloads. Tragically mandatory podcast dictates leave little opportunity for talent to say, “I can’t do a podcast well. I’m a radio performer and isn’t that what you hired me for?” My goodness – such a radio talent would be labelled insubordinate, not a team player, and not part of the future!!!

To be productive and on-brand podcasts offered by a radio station should be hosted by podcast stars. The odds of a radio star creating a winning podcast are about the same as finding a Lucille Ball hit movie.

Walter Sabo is a long-time radio industry consultant and thought leader.  He hosts and produces a network radio show titled “Sterling on Sunday” 10:00 pm-1:00 am ET.  www.waltersterlingshow.com.   walter@sabomedia.com

Industry News

Ryan Edwards Moves to PM Drive at KOA, Denver

Radio personality Ryan Edwards moves from his role as co-host of KOA, Denver’s evening “Broncos Country Tonight” program with Benjamin Allbright to afternoon drive as part of “The KOA Sports Zoo” alongside hosts Dave Logan and Alfred Williams. Edwards began his radio career at Bonneville’s crosstown sports talk KKFN “104.3 The Fan” before joining iHeartMedia Denver and co-hosting “First & Ten at 10” on KDFD-AM “Orange & Blue 760.” Edwards says, “I am thrilled to join radio and football legends Dave Logan and Alfred Williams on ‘The KOA Sports Zoo.’ I look forward to bringing a fans’ perspective to the Denver Broncos and all things Denver sports.”

Industry News

Lidia Curanaj Exits WABC for Newsmax TV

Media personality and WABC, New York talk host Lidia Curanaj tweets that she is leaving the Red Apple Media news/talk station for a position with Newsmax TV. She says, “I made the incredibly difficult decision to leave WABC Radio and take a job with Newsmax where I’ll have my own show – a national show. (Not bad for an Albanian girl from the Bronx!) The premiere date will be announced soon, but I am super excited yet sad to leave all the amazing people at WABC!”

Industry News

Rick Thomas Named Brand Manager at Beasley Tampa

Radio programming pro Rick Thomas joins Beasley Media Group to serve as brand manager of the company’s Tampa radio cluster that includes business talk WHFS-AM “Moneytalk Radio 1010” and five music brands. Thomas most recently served as the national format leader and day to day program director at Summit Media’s CHR WWST-FM, Knoxville. Beasley Media Group Tampa VP and market manager Ron deCastro says, “I am excited to once again get the chance to work with Rick Thomas. Rick is one of the best programming minds and Culture builder and I look forward to teaming up again with him in Tampa.”

Industry News

New Affiliates and Distribution Change for Erick Erickson Show

The nationally syndicated “Erick Erickson Show” moves to the Westwood One Wegener distribution systemErick Erickson - WSB from its previous place on the Premiere XDS system. At the same time, program host Erick Erickson tells TALKERS magazine that his show is now heard on Tri-City Radio LLC’s news/talk WJNZ-AM, Mobile daily and on Radio One’s news/talk WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte on weekends.

Industry News

Randi P’Pool Joins MIW Board of Directors

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. (MIW), announces that it is elevating Randi P’Pool to its board of directors. P’Pool previously served three years as a volunteer on the MIW PR committee. She takes over for longtime board member and former national spokeswoman, Denyse Mesnik, who rises to the MIW advisory council. MIW board president Ruth Presslaff says, “We are so lucky to have someone of Randi’s caliber join our board. Randi has worked diligently on the PR committee and has earned this board seat. Knowing Randi, I suspect we’ll get a lot done and have a whole lot of fun doing it! That said, I will miss working side-by-side with my dear friend and now advisory council member Denyse Mesnik. She has given immeasurably to this organization and can’t be thanked enough.”

Industry News

2023 Gracies Deadline Extended to January 23

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announces that the deadline to submit entries for the 48th Annual Gracie Awards is being extended through January 26, 2023 (11:59 pm ET). The regular deadline, with no additional fee, is January 19, 2023 (11:59 pm ET). The Gracie Awards, presented by AWMF, celebrate programming and individual achievement by, for and about women in television, radio/audio and digital media.  Submissions from all facets of media are encouraged. A full list of the categories can be found here. AWMF president Becky Brooks says, “As our largest fundraiser of the year, the Gracie Awards empower the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation to deliver on its promise of advancing all women in media by strengthening their connection, education and recognition in our industry.” The Gracie Awards Gala will be May 23 at the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire hotel and the Gracie Awards Luncheon will be held on June 20 at the Cipriani 42nd Street, New York.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (1/17) Hottest News/Talk Media Stories

The cache of government documents in the possession of President Joe Biden and special counsel Robert Hur’s investigation into the matter; the federal debt limit will be reached on tomorrow and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen cautions “extraordinary measures” will be needed to pay the nation’s bills if congress doesn’t act; the House GOP prepares to begin impeachment proceedings against Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas for failing to secure the U.S.-Mexico border; the military assistance the U.S. is providing to Ukraine as Russia continues its attacks on the country; the World Economic Forum taking place in Davos, Switzerland; Elon Musk’s fraud trial for 2018 tweets about taking Tesla private; China’s population decline and its slowed economic growth; and the aftermath of the storms that have been battering California for the past month were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry Views

Dr. Murray Sabrin Guests on Harrison Podcast

One of the most prolific talk radio interviewees of the past three decades, Murray Sabrin, Ph.D. is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Sabrin is professor emeritus of finance at Ramapo College of New Jersey.  Sabrin, who made New Jersey political history in 1997 for his groundbreaking third-party gubernatorial candidacy as the Libertarian Party nominee, is widely recognized as one of America’s leading voices on libertarian ideology. Harrison and Sabrin take a deep-dive into the ongoing problems of our times – inflation, health care, endless wars, excessive taxation, illegal immigration, and the alleged erosion of civil liberties under the crushing overreach of big government. Harrison, a First Amendment advocate who maintains a neutral partisan philosophy, says, “Libertarianism is an ideology with which I do not necessarily fully agree in terms of practical application – but one that I support as a guideline to keeping the unwieldy task of running 21st century America within the compass direction and spirit intended by the Founding Fathers.” Harrison wrote the foreword in Sabrin’s latest Amazon paperback best-seller, From Immigrant to Public Intellectual: An American Story (Talkers Books, 2022). The book follows Sabrin’s rise as an immigrant child with humble beginnings to forge a stellar career as an educator, author, history-making third party political candidate and media influencer. To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here.