Industry News

The Morse Report Joins Radio America’s Helios Media

Radio America is announcing that its podcast network Helios Media is adding “The Morse Report” with Matt Morse to it offerings. Radio America says, “Morse delivers daily news, imganalysis and commentary to an audience of millions who feel underserved by mainstream outlets. His direct, no-nonsense style has built one of the most loyal and engaged followings in independent media, with over 800,000 YouTube subscribers and more than 166 million total views.” Helios Media president and CEO Mike Paradiso comments, “Matt has built a loyal and highly engaged audience through his independent, insightful commentary on the news and cultural issues shaping America. His authentic voice and growing influence have made him one of the most promising rising stars in independent media.”

Industry News

iHeartMedia Cuts Hit KXNO, Des Moines Hosts

As the staffing cuts announced by iHeartMedia become public, we’re learning about some of those who worked in spoken-word formats who’ve been affected. Sports talk hosts at the company’s KXNO, Des Moines exiting the station include: Sean Roberts, imgLucas Strain and Connor Ferguson of the afternoon show “Off The Bench” are out, as are hosts of “The 1st Quarter,” Heather Burnside and Alec Busse. Roberts says in a Facebook post, “Earlier today after our show myself as many others were laid off at iHeart Des Moines. I’m not angry or am going to blame anyone… it’s part of the business. You can have good ratings, good revenue etc… Doesn’t matter… your number on that excel sheet can be picked any day. I sit here proud of my career in radio and proud of what we did at KXnO. I’ve been doing sports talk radio in Des Moines since 2014 and it’s been a hell of a ride with so many people to thank.”

Industry News

Fabian to Lead Cumulus Boise

Cumulus Media appoints Mike Fabian vice president / market manager for its Boise operations that includes news/talk KBOI-imgAM/FM and sports talk KTIK-FM “953FM The Ticket,” plus three music brands. Fabian most recently served with Townsquare Media in Arizona. Fabian states, “I am honored to join the Boise team and look forward to becoming part of both the organization and this remarkable community. Throughout my career, I have always believed that great teams and strong relationships are the foundation of success. I am excited to work alongside this talented group, serve the Boise community, and help build on the strong tradition these stations have established.”

Industry News

Today is BFoA Giving Day

Today (6/25) is the Broadcasters Foundation of America’s annual Giving Day, an effort to raise critical funds that support the organization’s mission of providing financial assistance to broadcast professionals facing severe hardship due to debilitating imgillness or disaster. The BFOA has distributed more than $20 million in aid to radio and television professionals over the past 15 years, representing over 200 broadcast companies across 45 states and U.S. territories. BFOA says, “On Giving Day, we encourage everyone in broadcasting to come together and support our broadcast community. Every contribution helps ensure that the Broadcasters Foundation can continue to provide a helping hand to broadcasters in need when tragedy strikes.” You can make a donation here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (6/24)

The most discussed stories yesterday (6/24) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. U.S.-Iran Negotiations / War Powers Resolution Fails
  2. Housing Bill / SAVE America Act
  3. Tuesday Primary Results
  4. America 250 Kickoff
  5. Reflecting Pool Controversy
Industry News

TALKERS 2026 Video: Special Presentation – “Behind the Scenes at a Major News/Talk Morning Show” – Spotlight on WBT’s Bo Thompson & Beth Troutman

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TALKERS continues to post a treasure trove of videos recorded at the TALKERS 2026: Radio’s Next Chapter conference recently held at Hofstra University (6/5). More than 65 speakers participated in the day’s events. Today’s entry is an informative and uplifting presentation titled, “Behind the Scenes at a Major News/Talk Morning Show.” The featured speakers are the wake-up duo of the highly successful “Good Morning BT” show at the legendary WBT, Charlotte – Bo Thompson & Beth Troutman. The engaging “BT” pair provide candid insights into the mechanics and chemistry that go into the creation of a modern era news/talk morning show and the very nature of the two-host paradigm. Don’t miss this! Stay tuned to TALKERS for daily postings of sessions from the 28th installment of the longest running and most important annual talk media industry gathering. To view this dynamic discussion in its entirety, please click here.

Industry News

iHeartMedia Staff Cuts Happening as Company “Evolving” Programming

iHeartMedia alerts its employees via a memo from chief programming officer Tom Poleman and Multiplatform Group CEO Ann Marie Licata that it will be eliminating some positions as the imgcompany works to become more nimble. The memo also notes that while it will be creating new roles to this end in the future, the unfortunate reality is that some people are going to lose their jobs. “We have given this a great deal of thought and do not take this step lightly; we are deeply grateful for the contributions of those affected, and we’re committed to supporting them through this transition.”

Industry News

WABC’s Sid Rosenberg to Join NYSBA Hall of Fame

WABC, New York morning drive host Sid Rosenberg is being inducted into the New York State Broadcasters Association Hall of imgFame. He’ll officially join the Hall on October 22 during a ceremony at the Rainbow Room in New York City. NYSBA says in a letter to Rosenberg,” Your career has been outstanding… while successful at WFAN and 1010 WINS, you have become a radio legend in your 10 years at 77WABC. From co-hosting the “Bernie and Sid” in 2016 to today’s “Sid and Friends in the Morning,” you have blazed a path in the tough New York City market.”

Industry News

It’s Official: Walter Sterling Named Host of The Other Side of Midnight

Red Apple Audio Networks and WABC Radio make it official that Walter Sterling is the new, permanent host of the nationally syndicated program, “The Other Side of Midnight,” that airs live Monday through Friday from 1:00 am to 5:00 am ET. In addition to its flagship WABC, New York, the program is also heard on such imgsignals as WGN, Chicago; KMOX, St. Louis and 18 other affiliate stations. Sterling says, “There is something magical about overnight radio. It’s the one part of the day when listeners let down their guard and have real conversations. They share their stories, their questions, their experiences, and together we explore the fascinating, funny, mysterious, and sometimes unbelievable side of life. To be heard on legendary stations like WABC, WGN, and KMOX is both a professional milestone and a personal honor. I’m excited to spend the nights with listeners across America and build a community where every voice matters and every story is worth telling.”

Uncategorized

Ben Cominos Exits WHBY, Appleton, Wisconsin; Local Brewery to Stream Show

Late morning talk host Ben Cominos, host of the “Outside the Box” program, exits Woodward Communications’ news/talk WHBY, Appleton, Wisconsin. The station posted the news to Facebook, saying, “WHBY will discontinue its political talk programming block from 8:30 am – 11:00 am previously held by Ben Cominos with imgOutside the Box. We wish Ben nothing but the best moving forward.” According to WFRV-TV, Green Bay, the station says it will release more details in the coming weeks “about which local programming will replace Cominos and its political block.” Cominos is not giving up his show, however. He tells the Green Bay Press-Gazette, “I’m not going to bury the lede, I’m no longer employed by WHBY. ‘Outside the Box’ will still live on though. My show has been picked up by Minocqua Brewing.” He says “Outside the Box” will stream 9:00 am to 11:00 am weekdays on the Minocqua Brewing Co. Times Substack and on his own Facebook, TikTok and YouTube accounts. Cominos describes his show as “a working class political show for the people that feel left behind by the two-party system.”

Uncategorized

Cumulus Promotes Jay Davis to RVP

Cumulus Media promotes Jay Davis to regional vice president in which he’ll add oversight of the company’s six-station Colorado imgSprings market that includes news/talk KVOR to his duties and he’ll continue to lead the Oklahoma City operations. Cumulus president of operations Bob Walker states, “Jay is an accomplished leader and the perfect partner for the team in Colorado Springs. We are eager to see the impact he and the team will continue to have in that community for our listeners and clients.”

Industry News

WCCO Helps Raise More Than $82k for Blood Cancer Patients

Audacy’s news/talk 830 WCCO in Minneapolis raised more than $82,000 during its fourth annual “Cure Blood Cancer Radio Auction,” benefitting NMDP – a global nonprofit dedicated to imghelping patients with blood cancers or disorders find matching blood stem cell donors. WCCO brand manager Brad Lane comments, “The auction experiences created excitement. Our fans created impact. In an era of infinite content and fractured attention, this event wasn’t just a fundraiser. It was a reminder that radio still matters. It still creates community, inspires generosity, and has the power to turn listeners into neighbors united behind a common cause. We’re honored to help bring people together in support of NMDP’s mission.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (6/23)

The most discussed stories yesterday (6/23) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. Tuesday Primary Races
  2. U.S.-Iran Negotiations / Senate War Powers Resolution
  3. Reflecting Pool Controversy
  4. Texas Immigration Center Shooting Convictions
  5. Housing Affordability Bill
Industry News

TALKERS 2026 Video: Panel Discussion – “Overcoming Challenges as a Talk Media Talent”

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TALKERS continues to post videos of sessions recorded at the TALKERS 2026: Radio’s Next Chapter conference recently held at Hofstra University (6/5). More than 65 speakers participated in the day’s events. Today’s entry is a fascinatingly candid panel discussion titled, “Overcoming Challenges as a Talk Media Talent.” Moderated by Salem Radio Network syndicated host, Mike Gallagher, the panelists include (in alphabetical order): Kathy Barnette, host, WPHT, Philadelphia; Tara Granahan, host, WPRO, Providence; Andy Hooser, co-owner, Hooser Media Network / host, “Voice of Reason with Andy Hooser;” Kevin McCullough, host, “That KEVIN Show,” Salem Radio Network; McGraw Milhaven, program director, KTRS, St. Louis / host, “America at Night,” Westwood One; and Dr. Daliah Wachs, host, Talk Media Network. The fast-paced conversation focuses on a wide variety of issues faced by talk media personalities in the ever-evolving landscape of today’s turbulent industry. Stay tuned to TALKERS for daily postings of sessions from the 28th installment of the longest running and most important annual talk media industry gathering. To view this dynamic discussion in its entirety, please click here.

Industry News

Dennis Malloy Returns to New Jersey 101.5 Middays; Eric Johnson Back in Management Seat

Less than a year ago, Dennis Malloy (right) retired from Townsquare Media’s WKXW, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” where he had co-hosted the midday show with Judi Franco (left) for almost 30 years. imgNow, the station announces that Malloy is returning to the station on July 13 to resume his role as co-host of the “Dennis & Judi Show.” This change doesn’t put Franco’s current co-host Eric Johnson out on the street. The former, longtime “New Jersey 101.5” program director is returning to management as operations manager and program director. He will serve as a fill-in talk host on the station and will spin records duringimg the station’s weekend music programs. Johnson says, “So here is where we are. Dennis and Judi are back together on July 13. I am moving into a role that lets me put 48 years of experience to work shaping what New Jersey radio sounds like across three markets. And I will still be here, writing about this state I have loved my whole life, and showing up on the air when you need a familiar voice.”

Industry News

Radio Talk Show Host Martha Zoller Passes Away

As TALKERS reported in a breaking news alert yesterday afternoon (6/22), North Georgia-based talk radio mainstay Martha Zoller passed away at the age of 67 on Monday.  Zoller recently announced in TALKERS that she imgwould be retiring from daily talk show hosting later this summer on Jacobs Media’s WDUN-AM/FM, Gainesville, where she presided over a hugely popular midday program since 2019. The decision was made due to heart-related health issues.  She planned to remain with the powerful station as an occasional political consultant and commentator. Zoller, the 2023 recipient of the TALKERS “Woman of the Year” award, was an influential figure in Georgia politics having run for Congress in the U.S. 9th District as a Republican in 2012. Before that she served her first stint as a radio talk show host in North Georgia for a number of years. She was also a member of the State Board of Education representing District 9 in Northeast, Georgia in addition to engaging in a number of other community-oriented activities.

TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison stated, “We knew that she was dealing with heart issues after a recent, unexpected cardiac episode and her withdrawal from a speaking role at the recent TALKERS conference, but this terrible news came as a shock because we all thought she was basically on the mend.  Martha was a woman of great strength, energy, and character – a truly beloved figure in the broadcasting industry. This is a horrible loss to her family and friends, as well as being a devastating blow to talk radio in America.”

Memorial Park Funeral Home Riverside Chapel in Gainesville will be handling funeral arrangements.

See a video excerpt of Zoller accepting the “Woman of the Year” award from TALKERS in 2023 here.

Uncategorized

James Koh Show Joins KNX-FM, Los Angeles Lineup

Audacy sports talk KNX-FM, Los Angeles “ 97.1 The Fan” adds “The James Koh Show” to its weekday lineup airing from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Station brand manager Andrew Williams says, “James brings a rare combination of local roots, national imgperspective, and multi-platform success that aligns perfectly with our vision for the new ‘97.1 The Fan.’” Audacy notes that Koh is an award-winning journalist, broadcaster, and sports personality with experience at FOX 11, NBC 4, NFL Network, DIRECTV Sports, and the Clippers Radio Network, as well as national work at Amazon Prime Sports, FuboTV, and EA’s official Madden broadcasts. Beyond the microphone, he is an entrepreneur and educator, co-owning a football analytics website and serving as an adjunct journalism professor.

Industry News

Will West Moves from On-Air to Digital Sales at Cumulus Knoxville

Knoxville sports talk host Will West announces that he is giving up his on-air position as co-host of the “Tyler and Will” show (with Tyler Ivens) on Cumulus Media’s WNML “The Sports Animal” and imgwill take on the role of digital sales manager for Cumulus Knoxville. He says he will continue to be heard on air as part of the Tennessee football postgame show. He told his listeners, “I want the next chapter in my life to be where I’m no longer the main character, but that I’m able to help other people to be the best version of the main character themselves.” He added, “I’m tired. This is a grind. This [new management position] opens up more time that I can spend with my wife. This opens up a situation where I can step in and grow other people.” See the Knox News story here.

Industry News

Caroline Beasley Inducted into Florida Broadcasters Hall of Fame

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Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley was inducted into the Florida Broadcasters Hall of Fame during a ceremony that took place during the Florida Association of Broadcasters Annual Conference on Thursday, June 18 at The Breakers Resort in Palm Beach, Florida. Pictured above at the event are (from l-r): Dr. Robert Beasley, Brian Beasley, Caroline Beasley, Bruce Beasley and Brad Beasley.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (6/22)

The most discussed stories yesterday (6/22) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. U.S.-Iran Negotiations
  2. Keir Starmer Resigns
  3. Primary Races
  4. Reflecting Pool Issues
  5. Alan Greenspan & Clive Davis Deaths
Industry News

TALKERS 2026 Video: Panel Discussion – “The Big Picture”

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TALKERS continues to post videos of sessions recorded at the TALKERS 2026: Radio’s Next Chapter conference recently held at Hofstra University (6/5). More than 65 speakers participated in the day’s events. Today’s entry is a high-powered panel discussion titled, “The Big Picture.” Moderated by TALKERS founder Michael Harrison, the panelists include (in alphabetical order): Steve Jones, president, CEO, and chairman, Skyview Networks; Frank Morano, member, New York City Council / former host, WABC, New York; Chris Oliviero, chief business officer, Audacy; Tavis Smiley, owner / host, KBLA, Los Angeles; and Rich Valdés, host, “This is America with Rich Valdés.”  The fast-paced conversation focuses on the question “What is ‘radio’ and what does it need to do to survive and thrive in the digital era?” It explores changing technology, sociology, revenue generation, entrepreneurism, algorithms, programming options, race relations, the generational divide, and more. Not to be missed! Stay tuned to TALKERS for daily postings of sessions from the 28th installment of the longest running and most important annual talk media industry gathering. To view this dynamic discussion in its entirety, please click here.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Improving Results from Endorsement Spots

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imgThe stations I work with make big money with live endorsement spots delivered by familiar local on-air personalities. Remember them? With most AM/FM broadcast hours now robotic or non-local, your relationship with the listener is precious and can be leveraged… carefully.

Quality vs. Quantity

The more products or services you endorse, the less special each pitch will be. You’re asking the listener’s trust each time, so asking too often can sound insincere. So back-to-back “I’m [name] for [account]” is verboten, and that can happen when spots you voice air outside your show.

“Tell me a story”

When the late, great Don Hewitt – the father of “60 Minutes” – spoke at a NAB convention years ago, he told us that he was often asked, “Why is this the most successful TV news show of all time?” And he said, “I can tell you in four words: ‘Tell me a story,’” which every piece does.

Describe your personal experience with the advertiser’s product or service in before-and-after fashion – problem was, problem solved – in a relatable way.

OOPS. Are you saying, “I haven’t sold you yet?”

Often, these are long-standing advertiser relationships.  Two cautions:

If you’ve been touting an advertiser for a while, DON’T say so. “For years, I’ve been telling you about [name of business].” Translation: “…and I haven’t sold you yet, have I?” Instead, keep the pitch fresh.

And keep it customer-centric; rather than talking about a store. In one spot I heard, for a sewing supply retailer, the well-intentioned host sounded awestruck as he recited the store’s inventory (“over fifteen hundred bolts of fabric!”). That’s the store’s problem. Instead, solve the listener’s problem: “Imagine the money you could save if you made all your kids’ back-to-school clothes this year?  [advertiser] will give you free sewing lessons!”

Avoid saying…

  • “MY GOOD FRIENDS AT [name of business],” which sounds phony.
  • “All-new:”Say “new,” if it IS new, AND if newness is a listener benefit (and say why).
  • “…AND MUCH MORE,” which means nothing. Weed-out stuff like this, and you’ll give copy more time to breathe.
  • “Needs,” as in: “FOR ALL YOUR [product category] NEEDS” (the ultimate “BLAH, BLAH, BLAH”).

More?

My video “Make Money with Endorsement Spots:” https://youtu.be/fReiC8WLTac

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke and connect on LinkedIn

Industry News

“The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show” Celebrates Five Years

Premiere Networks’ nationally “The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show” celebrates five years on air this month. The program debuted on June 21, 2021 airing in the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET daypart dominated for years by the late Rush Limbaugh. Now, the imgprogram is hears on more than 550 stations nationwide. Two years later, Premiere launched The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Podcast Network currently offering eight news, politics and culture podcasts. Premiere Networks president Julie Talbott says, “We’re so proud to celebrate this milestone with Clay and Buck. They had enormous shoes to fill when we launched this show, and they’ve surpassed our expectations in every way. Clay and Buck have built a dynamic, high-impact brand of talk radio that continues to grow across multiple platforms and delivers unmatched results for our affiliate and advertising partners. We look forward to celebrating many more milestones together!”

Industry News

Gelman and Clarke Join BFoA Board of Directors

The Broadcasters Foundation of America elects two media executives to its board of directors as Michael Gelman, executive producer of “Live with Kelly & Mark,” and Tim Clarke, most recently with Audacy as SVP and head of digital audio content join imgthe organization. BFoA chair Scott Herman says, “We are honored to welcome Michael and Tim to the Broadcasters Foundation board of directors. Both are highly accomplished leaders whose careers reflect excellence, innovation, and a deep commitment to our industry. Their insights, relationships, and strategic vision will be invaluable as we continue to grow awareness of the Foundation’s mission and ensure that broadcasters across the country know that help is available when they need it most.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Dr. Daliah Show Adds New Affiliate. Witchta’s Big Talker KQAM adds the Talk Media Network program “The Dr. Daliah Show” hosted by Dr. Daliah Wachs to its lineup for Sunday evenings.

Bulls and “The Score” Renew. Audacy’s sports talk WSCR-FM, Chicago “104.3 The Score” signs a multiyear multiplatform radio broadcast contract extension with the Chicago Bulls. As part of the agreement, 104.3 The Score will continue as the flagship radio station of the Bulls, airing all regular season and postseason games.

BIA Names Guerity to VP Post.  BIA Advisory Services appoints Michael Guerity vice president of market intelligence & strategic communications in which he’ll oversee strategic communications, market positioning, research storytelling, content development, and industry engagement while helping shape the development, delivery, and application of BIA’s U.S. local advertising forecast intelligence, market analysis, and strategic insights for organizations across the media and advertising ecosystem.