Industry Views

Monday Memo: Stepping-Up and Sounding Solid

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imgWith so many of us taking vacation time soon, guest hosts are often local somebodies who are not career broadcasters and don’t share our second-nature performance routines. For their benefit, these tips, based on my experience on both sides of the mic:

Get right into it. When I used to fill-in for Jim Bohannon, I figured that – to his listeners – who-the-heck was I? Lacking the back-story of “a name,” I simply, succinctly, told the truth, “I’m Jim’s pal, Holland Cooke.” Skip the biographical blah-blah-blah that devalues a show by emphasizing that the familiar host is absent. Just tee-up what the show is about this hour… why it matters to those listening… how they will benefit from not wandering-off… and how to join-in.

Make the phone ring. When “FOX Across America” host Jimmy Failla is off, my client Paul Gleiser – owner of affiliate KTBB/Tyler-Longview TX – often fills-in. Paul asked Jimmy for advice. Ever in-character, Failla quipped, “Drive it like you stole it!” So Gleiser is all about call count, teeing-up TWO tempting propositions, one topical, the other a softer “Bonus Question.” As new employment numbers were announced, “The WORST job you ever had?” got callers telling great stories.

“Know what the show was about yesterday,” Paul urges, because political topics tend to change little day-to-day. Avoid this trap: The guest host’s outspoken narrative is a point that’s already been talked-to-death BUT this is HIS shot on a big show, so this is HIS turn to me-too the unison. Better approach: Come up with a new wrinkle.

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Invite participation multiple ways. Many listeners would rather text than call. Welcome them and you’ll sound accessible and at-the-speed-of-life. Note how effectively SiriusXM’s Michael Smerconish polls listeners via social media.

Establish a relationship with the producer “BEFORE the show” Gleiser advises: “Don’t just show up.” Ascertain who-does-what. In some cases, the producer will have booked guests and may suggest or assign call-in topics. Or if – in Jimmy Failla speak – you’re driving, the producer is simply call-screening and running-the-board… which you should NOT attempt if you’re not an experienced broadcaster or if you are unfamiliar with the station’s setup.

Keep re-setting – succinctly, “matter-of-factly,” introducing yourself and your guest-or-topic — going-into and coming-out-of breaks, and at the beginning of each hour. Listeners are constantly tuning-in.

Always and only announce the call-in number immediately after you tell them WHY to call. Most common mistake I hear, even from experienced hosts: They give-out the phone number at the very beginning of the show or hour or segment, then (eventually) they tell you why to call, possibly minutes later (an eternity in live radio). So, they’re haunted by those dreaded “regulars” who already have the number memorized. Make announcing the number your punch line, whether you’re asking opinions on topic du jour or offering access to a guest they’ll want to interact with. Seems like a little thing, but this can make a big difference in how popular you make the station sound.

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

Industry News

WABC Owner John Catsimatidis Honored at Fair Media Council Folio Awards

John Catsimatidis, owner of Red Apple Media Group and WABC, New York, was honored with the 2025 Distinguished Service Award for WABC Radio, New York, from the Fair Media Council Folio Awards lastimg Thursday (6/12) in New York City. The Distinguished Service Award was presented to WABC Radio in recognition of a century of broadcasting leadership and its continued role as a vital force in American media. During his acceptance speech, Catsimatidis stated, “92% of the American people believed what Walter Cronkite said, and I think news has to get back to that situation and that’s what we’re doing at WABC.” He added, “I am honored to accept the Distinguished Service Award on behalf of WABC Radio, Margo [Catsimatidis], Chad [Lopez], and the entire team. We are committed to common sense, presenting all sides of a story, and letting the listeners decide.”

Industry News

Joe Thomas and TMN Broadcast from “Freedomfest”

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Pictured above at the weekend’s “Freedomfest” in Palm Springs, California is Joe Thomas (right) host of “First Thing Today” – syndicated nationally by Talk Media Network – and owner of WTON, Staunton, Virginia speaking with “Freedomfest” founder Mark Skousen (left).  Thomas tells TALKERS, “During a weekend where libertarians faced the debate over Israel’s missile strikes against Iran and whether US borders should be open or not, we brought all of it to our listeners from Portland to Daytona each day!”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend (6/14-15)

The most discussed stories over the weekend on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Minnesota Lawmaker Assassinated
2. DC Military Parade
3. Israel-Iran Strikes
4. ICE Protests / “No Kings Day”
5. Big, Beautiful Bill

Industry Views

SABO SEZ: Managing the Meters is a Fatal Time Waster

By Walter Sabo
a.k.a. Walter Sterling, Host
WPHT, Philadelphia, “Walter Sterling Every Damn Night”
and TMN syndicated, “Sterling on Sunday”

imgAt first, I thought it was a joke. When I realized there were serious people having serious meetings about the joke, it became both horrific and symptomatic

The sitcom is called: MANAGING THE METERS. Note: As a suited consultant I was a prime mover to get Arbitron off diaries and onto meters.

Worldly success is often the result of being highly focused on what one can control versus imagining what can be controlled. Nielsen can manage their meters. You can’t.

Imagining what can be controlled has led to wasting time playing MANAGING THE METERS.  To participate one must learn where Nielsen meters are placed, which station has which meters, and who is carrying “your” meters. Yes, one can learn, for example, that a 19-year-old in Glendale listens to KIIS-FM for 17 hours a week. More than 17 hours in radio conference rooms will be spent playing whack-a-mole with that 19-year-old’s meter; where will it land next?

Playing MANAGING THE METERS is a major time waster and cume killer. Once upon a time many music stations embraced “request line call-in research.” Shudder. Stations would tally which songs were getting how-many requests and make on-air playlists based on those counts. Obviously call-in request playlists would appeal primarily to existing listeners and do nothing to reach new listeners. Sure, P1s are appeased but cume always dies.

And here we are: Super-serving meter holders who already listen to a station will appease P1s but cume will diminish every month. It is pure myth that “talk” is high TSL and low cume.  In fact, most current talking stations do everything possible to lower cume. Casual cuming is virtually impossible. (Who is talking? What’s the number? Thanks for holding on! Who has time to hold on?). The MANAGING THE METERS fantasy gives “science” to cume-killing actions and reactions.

MANAGING THE METERS, rather than making better, bigger shows has resulted in fear, indecision, and the crime of overthinking. Nothing could be worse for a medium that thrives on emotional wallops than turning feelings into math.

What to do when tempted to play MANAGING THE METERS:

Go for a pleasant walk and imagine a better show, new promotions, fresh promos and surprising, possibly weird topics.
Eat your favorite ice cream and imagine a better show, new promotions, fresh promos and surprising, possibly weird topics.
Call your father and thank him and imagine a better show, new promotions, fresh promos and surprising, possibly weird topics.
Remember that innovative programmers who CREATE – rather than copy – great stations give all of their attention to P2s and then imagine a better show, new promotions, fresh promos and surprising, possibly weird topics.

Walter Sabo has been a C Suite action partner for companies such as SiriusXM, Hearst, Press Broadcasting, Gannett, RKO General and many other leading media outlets. His company HITVIEWS, in 2007, was the first to identify and monetize video influencers.. His nightly show “Walter Sterling Every Damn Night” is heard on WPHT, Philadelphia. His syndicated show, “Sterling On Sunday,” from Talk Media Network, airs 10:00 pm-1:00 am ET, and is now in its 10th year of success. He can be reached by email at sabowalter@gmail.com.

Industry News

Bill Spadea Loses Gubernatorial Bid

In January, talk radio host Bill Spadea took leave of his WKXW-FM, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” morning drive program to run for governor of New Jersey as a Republican. His opponent, Jack Ciattrelli, won theimg primary to take on Democrat Mikie Sherrill in November. New Jersey 101.5’s coverage noted, “Conservative radio host Bill Spadea was expected to give Ciattarelli a fight, but any hope that Spadea might have had to keep the race close ended when President Donald Trump endorsed Ciattarelli. Ciattarelli defeated Spadea on election night with a landslide victory margin of over 40 points. Ciattarelli swept every county, including Ocean County, where Spadea’s base of support was believed to be strongest.” So far, neither the station nor Spadea have stated whether Spadea intends to return to the morning radio program.

Industry News

Salem to Debut Christian Talk on WWFE, Miami

Salem Media Group is undertaking what it calls the “first new Christian Teaching and Talk radio format Salem has launched in over a decade, underscoring a renewed commitment to grow Christian media inimg underserved major markets” as it will debut “The Word Miami” on WWFE, Miami. That station has been airing Spanish language “La Poderosa.” Salem CEO David Santrella comments, “This is more than a station launch – it’s a calling fulfilled. Miami has long been underserved by strong, consistent Christian broadcast content. Salem was called to fill that gap. This expansion is a bold step in our mission to proclaim the Good News through every available channel.” The station is simulcast on AM 1550 WRHC (Miramar) and is also available via FM translators at 103.1 FM (Miami) and 98.7 FM (Miramar).

Industry News

KXEL, Cedar Rapids Takes Over “Tractorcade”

NRG Media’s news/talk KXEL, Cedar Rapids took over the sponsorship of the “Great Eastern Iowa Tractorcade” after another station in the Cedar Rapids and Waterloo markets discontinued its support. Thisimg was the 26th year for the iconic Iowa summertime event that brings some 325 vintage tractors together at the Midwest Old Threshers Reunion fairgrounds in Mount Pleasant, Iowa. NRG Media says that while some entities might have been deterred from taking over such a popular and well-established event, company COO/CFO Jim Smith embraced the opportunity. He says, “We’re learning as we go, but we’re learning from people who have done this for a long time – very seasoned – so… it hasn’t been that heavy of a lift because we’re surrounded by good people.”

Industry News

Date Set for Posting 2025 TALKERS Heavy Hundred

 

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The TALKERS editorial board has announced the date of the 2025 edition of the TALKERS “100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America” – also known as the TALKERS “Heavy Hundred.” The prestigious list will be posted Tuesday, July 8, 2025.

This will mark the 30th anniversary of one of the most popular annual features published by TALKERS magazine since its debut as a list of 25 in 1995 (it expanded to 100 in 1996) and comes in conjunction this Summer with TALKERS magazine’s 35th anniversary as a broadcasting industry trade journal.

According to TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey, “The criteria for inclusion in the class of 2025 will remain radio-centric, however, with additional weight given to influence wielded in associated talk media platforms such as audio and video podcasting along with other means of online distribution appropriate to evident changes in the industry.”  Casey adds, “But the criteria that all inductees in the Heavy Hundred must have a regularly scheduled professional show on the air at a minimum of one terrestrial or satellite radio station at ‘press time’ will continue.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

WCBM Adds Ted Cruz Podcast. The Baltimore news/talk station adds Premiere Networks’ podcast starring Ted Cruzand Ben Ferguson. Station PD Sean Casey says, “Talk Radio 680 WCBM is thrilled to add Senator Cruz and Verdict to our weekend lineup. We feel it’s important to feature strong conservative voices like Senator Cruz and Ben Ferguson during this crucial time. I’m confident our listeners will look forward to hearing ‘Verdict with Ted Cruz’ every Sunday night.”

America Tonight Adds Affiliate. The nationally syndicated “America Tonight” program starring Kate Delaney adds new affiliate WVLK, Lexington, Kentucky “Newstalk 590 and 97.3 FM.”

Juju Chang to Host Gracies Luncheon. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation announce that ABC News “Nightline” co-anchor Juju Chang is hosting the 50th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon in New York City on Wednesday, June 18 at Cipriani 42nd Street. The Luncheon will also feature presenters including Arielle Chambers (ESPN), Boomer Esiason (WFAN), Medha Gandhi (iHeartMedia), Erica Hill (CNN), and Vicky Nguyen (NBC News).

WWO Presents College World Series. Cumulus Media’s Westwood One is the official network audio broadcast partner of the NCAA, and in conjunction with the NCAA Radio Network, will be home to the NCAA Division I Men’s College World Series Championship Finals, live from Charles Schwab Field in Omaha, Nebraska beginning June 21. Kevin Kugler will call all the action and will be joined in the booth by Scott Graham and field reporter Connor Happer.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seattle Seeks Drive Time Anchor and General Sales Manager

Lotus Communications Seattle is seeking candidates for two positions. The company seeks an experienced drive time news anchor/reporter for KNWN “Northwest Newsradio 97-7, AM 1000.” Lotus says, “The ideal candidate will help prepare and deliver an engaging prime-time newscast as part of an on-air duo, then produce a compelling story to air in other newscasts… You are the voice of your assigned show andimg expected to anchor special news or breaking news coverage when it happens. This position becomes an overall ambassador for our brand, and is expected to also work at special events, and alongside our sales staff to promote the station to Northwest Newsradio clients and endorse their businesses if requested.” Candidates must submit a writing sample and an audio sample along with resume here.

Lotus is also seeking an experienced and results-driven broadcasting general sales manager. The position is responsible for delivering assigned revenue targets through managing sales team efforts, developing sales talent and monthly business planning. The General Sales Manager will maintain an account list while helping the sales team sell and develop cohesive campaigns for new direct businesses. Submit your resume here.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (June 9 – 13, 2025)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (6/9-6/13) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

                 Stories

1. LA Protests / Trump Calls in Military
2. Big, Beautiful Bill / Trump Musk Feud
3. U.S.-Iran Tensions / Middle East Diplomats Recalled
4. U.S.-China Trade Negotiations / Tariffs
5. Saturday’s Military Parade
6. Russia-Ukraine War
7. FEMA Phaseout / RFK Jr Fires CDC Vaccine Panel
8. Israel-Gaza Unrest / Greta Thunberg Deported
9. Brian Wilson Dies
10.Air India Crash

                 People

1. Donald Trump
2. Gavin Newsom / Karen Bass
3. Elon Musk
4. Mike Johnson
5. Benjamin Netanyahu / Greta Thunberg
6. Howard Lutnick
7. Xi Jinping
8. Vladimir Putin
9. RFK Jr.
10.Brian Wilson

To see the full TALKERS Stories, Topics, and People Charts, please click HERE.

Industry News

WDEL-AM/FM, Wilmington and Sister Stations to Change Hands

News/talk WDEL-AM/FM, Wilmington and its four music-formatted sister stations are being sold by Forever Media to Draper Media for $11 million. Draper Holdings Business Trust CEO Molly Draper Russell says, “We’re excited to add these stations, each with a long history of serving their local communities, to our company. Our family’s history of service through free over-the-air broadcasting goes back nearly 60 years.img The addition of these stations fits perfectly into our late founder, my father, Thomas H. Draper’s motto that it is our moral obligation to serve our audience and advertising partners.” In a press release, Draper says it currently operates WBOC-TV, FOX21, WRDE-TV, Telemundo Delmarva, Antenna TV, My Cozi TV, The DSN Sports Network, and multiple FM radio stations across the Delmarva Peninsula. Speaking for seller Forever Media, president Lynn Deppen comments, “We are proud of the legacy these stations have built in their communities and grateful to our dedicated teams who have served listeners with passion and professionalism. We are confident that Draper Media shares our commitment to local broadcasting and will continue to provide outstanding service to audiences and advertisers alike as these stations enter an exciting new chapter.” The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, subject to approval by the FCC.

Industry News

Joe Pags Gets Standing “O” at Righteous Brothers Concert

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Pictured above at the HEB Performance Hall in San Antonio is nationally syndicated talk radio star Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo (left) with music legend Bill Medley (right). Medley brought his national Righteous Brothers “Lovin’ Feelin’ Farewell Tour” to San Antonio last Sunday night with singer Bucky Heard taking over for the late Bobby Hatfield. When Medley learned that radio talker Pags was in the audience, he did a special shout-out to the hometown favorite and asked him to stand. Pags received an ovation from the crowd and later met with Medley and Heard backstage. They also recorded a conversation for Pags’ podcast. 

Industry News

FCC’s Media Bureau Publishes Foreign Government Programming Rules

Earlier this week, the FCC’s Media Bureau “released rule modifications to the sponsorship identification requirements for foreign government-provided programming, which require a public disclosure to be made, at the time of broadcast, identifying the foreign source of such programming. The Second Report and Order adopted a revised approach that provides radio and television broadcast licensees with two options forimg demonstrating that they have met their duty of inquiry in seeking to obtain the information needed to determine whether programming is sponsored, paid for, or furnished by a foreign governmental entity.” While this new sponsorship identification requirements for foreign government-provided programming was passed 3-2 by the Commission last summer, it has been challenged in the courts and remains there. Because of this, yesterday’s announcement of the publication of the rules in the federal register also adds that the implementation of the rules are being put off for six months until December 8, 2025. One of the arguments put forth by broadcasters opposed to the new rules is that they put radio and TV stations in the position of having to conduct an investigation in order to comply with the law.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (6/11)

The most discussed stories yesterday (6/11) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. LA Protests / Trump’s Use of Military
2. U.S.-Iran Tensions / Middle East Diplomats Recalled
3. U.S.-China Trade Negotiations / Tariffs
4. Saturday’s Military Parade
5. Brian Wilson Dies

Industry Views

Neutraliars: The Platforms That Edit Like Publishers but Hide Behind Neutrality

By Matthew B. Harrison
TALKERS, VP/Associate Publisher
Harrison Media Law, Senior Partner
Goodphone Communications, Executive Producer

imgIn the golden age of broadcasting, the rules were clear. If you edited the message, you owned the consequences. That was the tradeoff for editorial control. But today’s digital platforms – YouTube, X, TikTok, Instagram – have rewritten that deal. Broadcasters and those who operate within the FCC regulatory framework are paying the price.

These companies claim to be neutral conduits for our content. But behind the curtain, they make choices that mirror the editorial judgment of any news director: flagging clips, muting interviews, throttling reach, and shadow banning accounts. All while insisting they bear no responsibility for the content they carry.

They want the control of publishers without the accountability. I call them neutraliars.

A “neutraliar” is a platform that claims neutrality while quietly shaping public discourse. It edits without transparency, enforces vague rules inconsistently, and hides bias behind shifting community standards.

Broadcasters understand the weight of editorial power. Reputation, liability, and trust come with every decision. But platforms operate under a different set of rules. They remove content for “context violations,” downgrade interviews for being “borderline,” and rarely offer explanations. No appeals. No accountability.

This isn’t just technical policy – it’s a legal strategy. Under Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, platforms enjoy broad immunity from liability related to user content. What was originally intended to allow moderation of obscene or unlawful material has become a catch-all defense for everything short of outright defamation or criminal conduct.

These companies act like editors when it suits them, curating and prioritizing content. But when challenged, they retreat behind the label of “neutral platform.” Courts, regulators, and lawmakers have mostly let it slide.

But broadcasters shouldn’t.

Neutraliars are distorting the public square. Not through overt censorship, but through asymmetry. Traditional broadcasters play by clear rules – standards of fairness, disclosure, and attribution. Meanwhile, tech platforms make unseen decisions that influence whether a segment is heard, seen, or quietly buried.

So, what’s the practical takeaway?

Don’t confuse distribution with trust.

Just because a platform carries your content doesn’t mean it supports your voice. Every upload is subject to algorithms, undisclosed enforcement criteria, and decisions made by people you’ll never meet. The clip you expected to go viral. Silenced. The balanced debate you aired. Removed for tone. The satire? Flagged for potential harm.

The smarter approach is to diversify your presence. Own your archive. Use direct communication tools – e-mail lists, podcast feeds, and websites you control. Syndicate broadly but never rely solely on one platform. Monitor takedowns and unexplained drops in engagement. These signals matter.

Platforms will continue to call themselves neutral as long as it protects their business model. But we know better. If a company edits content like a publisher and silences creators like a censor, it should be treated like both.

And when you get the inevitable takedown notice wrapped in vague policy language and polished PR spin, keep one word in mind.

Neutraliars.

Matthew B. Harrison is a media and intellectual property attorney who advises radio hosts, content creators, and creative entrepreneurs. He has written extensively on fair use, AI law, and the future of digital rights. Reach him at HarrisonMediaLaw.com or read more at TALKERS.com.

Industry News

Woodward Taps DeGroot to Lead Wisconsin Stations

Woodward Communications names B.J. DeGroot market manager for its six-station cluster in Northeast Wisconsin that includes news/talk WHBY and sports talk WSCO-AM/W237AA “The Score” in Appleton. DeGroot has been serving as brand manager for WHBY and “The Score.” Woodward says that DeGroot’s understanding of the local market and his success in brand management has prepared him to lead thisimg diverse group of stations. DeGroot comments, “Leading the entire portfolio of Woodward Community Media stations in Northeast Wisconsin is a significant honor. I’m committed to working with our talented local teams to continue delivering relevant content and strengthening our connection with the community.” The company also announces that Kelly Radandt, who was named director of broadcast in November 2024, will oversee broadcast brands across both Northeast Wisconsin and the company’s Springfield, Illinois stations. DeGroot and Kevin O’Dea, market manager of Springfield, will both report to Radandt. Radandt comments, “This expanded role presents a unique opportunity to unify our broadcast efforts and innovate across markets. I am eager to contribute to Woodward Community Media’s continued success and evolution. Onward!”

Industry News

Mark Kaye to Run for Congress in Florida

Former WOKV-FM, Jacksonville morning drive host Mark Kaye announces that he intends to run for theimg U.S. House in Florida’s 5th Congressional District as a Republican. Since exiting WOKV in February of 2024, Kaye has been hosting daily podcasts, “Mark Kaye Saves the Republic,” and “The 47 Daily.” Kaye says he’ll challenge incumbent Republican Congressman John Rutherford. Kaye says, “I’ve been shouting into microphones and TV cameras about these lazy politicians for years, but nothing’s changed. So, I will go to Washington and shout at them from the House floor!”

Industry News

NAB Board Positions Announced

The National Association of Broadcasters announces the results of the 2025 NAB Executive Committee elections. Collin Jones, EVP corporate strategy and development for Cumulus Media and president of Westwood One is elected chairman of the NAB Joint Board of Directors. Jones takes over for Perry Sook,img chairman and chief executive officer of Nexstar Media Group, who will remain on the executive committee as immediate past joint board chair. Also, Chris Ornelas, EVP and general counsel for Beasley Media Group, was elected chair by the NAB Radio Board. Leonard Wheeler, president of Mel Wheeler, Inc was elected first vice chair while Allen Power, president, Broadcast Media for Salem Media Group, was elected second vice chair. Eddie Harrell, co-president, Audio Division of Urban One was elected to the major group representative seat on the NAB Radio Board.

Industry News

BFoA Giving Day Set for June 24

The Broadcasters Foundation of America will hold its annual BFOA Giving Day on Tuesday, June 24. BFoA says the campaign raises much-needed funds to support the Foundation’s sole mission of providing financial assistance to broadcast radio and television professionals who find themselves in acute need due to criticalimg illness or disaster. In addition, the campaign strives to raise awareness of the Broadcasters Foundation’s charitable purpose to ensure that anyone in radio and television who might qualify for aid can apply. BFoA president Tim McCarthy states, “Please do not stand on the sidelines. If you’re part of the broadcasting community, while we hope you never need us, we need to be here for you should disaster or illness strike. The need for aid continues to grow each year, and I ask every broadcaster to consider a personal or corporate donation.” To make a BFOA Giving Day donation, radio and television professionals may click here.

Industry News

iHeartMedia and Washington Commanders Extend Deal

The Washington Commanders and iHeartMedia DC are extending their flagship broadcast partnership. Commanders games will continue to be heard on classic rock WBIG “BIG 100.3 FM,” as well as via the station’s website and the iHeartRadio App. iHeartMedia region president Aaron Hyland says, “We are thrilled to extend our dynamic audio partnership with the Washington Commanders, building on the momentum and shared success we’ve achieved together the past three seasons. By harnessing the power of audio across ‘BIG 100’ and our iHeartMedia platforms with broadcast, podcast, and streaming, we’re excited to deliver even more access, energy, and unforgettable gameday moments to Commanders fans throughout the region.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (6/10)

The most discussed stories yesterday (6/10) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. LA Protests / Trump vs Newsom
2. Big, Beautiful Bill / Musk Apologizes
3. U.S.-China Trade Talks
4. FEMA Phaseout
5. Russia-Ukraine War

Industry Views

Is That Even Legal? Talk Radio in the Age of Deepfake Voices: Where Fair Use Ends and the Law Steps In

By Matthew B. Harrison
TALKERS, VP/Associate Publisher
Harrison Media Law, Senior Partner
Goodphone Communications, Executive Producer

imgIn early 2024, voters in New Hampshire got strange robocalls. The voice sounded just like President Joe Biden, telling people not to vote in the primary. But it wasn’t him. It was an AI clone of his voice – sent out to confuse voters.

The calls were meant to mislead, not entertain. The response was quick. The FCC banned AI robocalls. State officials launched investigations. Still, a big question remains for radio and podcast creators:

Is using an AI cloned voice of a real person ever legal?

This question hits hard for talk radio, where satire, parody, and political commentary are daily staples. And the line between creative expression and illegal impersonation is starting to blur.

It’s already happening online. AI-generated clips of Howard Stern have popped up on TikTok and Reddit, making him say things he never actually said. They’re not airing on the radio yet – but they could be soon.

Then came a major moment. In 2024, a group called Dudesy released a fake comedy special called, “I’m Glad I’m Dead,” using AI to copy the voice and style of the late George Carlin. The hour-long show sounded uncannily like Carlin, and the creators claimed it was a tribute. His daughter, Kelly Carlin, strongly disagreed. The Carlin estate sued, calling it theft, not parody. That lawsuit could shape how courts treat voice cloning for years.

The danger isn’t just legal – it’s reputational. A cloned voice can be used to create fake outrage, fake interviews, or fake endorsements. Even if meant as satire, if it’s too realistic, it can do real damage.

So, what does fair use actually protect? It covers commentary, criticism, parody, education, and news. But a voice isn’t just creative work – it’s part of someone’s identity. That’s where the right of publicity comes in. It protects how your name, image, and voice are used, especially in commercial settings.

If a fake voice confuses listeners, suggests false approval, or harms someone’s brand, fair use probably won’t apply. And if it doesn’t clearly comment on the real person, it’s not parody – it’s just impersonation.

For talk show hosts and podcasters, here’s the bottom line: use caution. If you’re using AI voices, make it obvious they’re fake. Add labels. Give context. And best of all, avoid cloning real people unless you have their OK.

Fair use is a shield – but it’s not a free pass. When content feels deceptive, the law – and your audience – may not be forgiving.

Matthew B. Harrison is a media and intellectual property attorney who advises radio hosts, content creators, and creative entrepreneurs. He has written extensively on fair use, AI law, and the future of digital rights. Reach him at Harrison Legal Group or read more at TALKERS.com.

Industry News

WWJ, Detroit News Pro Mike Campbell Dead at 65

Audacy all-news WWJ, Detroit announces that longtime reporter and anchor Mike Campbell died on Sunday at 65 years of age. No cause of death is being reported. The station posted the following to itsimg website: “He was our friend and co-worker at WWJ Newsradio 950 and also a friend to our listeners, bringing you the stories of the day from Detroit and across Southeast Michigan. Someone recently described him as a hero, and we can’t argue with that. We are heartbroken to share that WWJ reporter and anchor Mike Campbell died on Sunday. He was 65 years old, having just celebrated his birthday at the end of May. He was a fearless reporter, with unique style — a way of talking to and connecting with the people who were a part of the stories he told.” Campbell is survived by his wife Terri and is children. See the complete WWJ story here.

Industry News

The American Miracle Premieres at the Kennedy Center

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On June 4, Heroic Pictures and Patterns of Evidence Foundation hosted an exclusive VIP red carpet premiere at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. for the new film, The American Miracle: Our Nation Is No Accident. The film was inspired by talk radio host Michael Medved’s bestselling book of the same name and portrays the successful American Revolution as happening due to the intervening hand of God. The movie was produced and directed by Timothy Mahoney and stars Pat Boone and Kevin Sorbo, among numerous others. Pictured above is Michael Medved with his wife Diane and actors in period costumes.