Industry News

iHeartMedia Expands Amazon Ads Relationship

iHeartMedia says it is expanding its advertising relationship with Amazon Ads, which is serving as a local reseller of its audio and video inventory, including Prime Video, Twitch, Amazon Music, Fire TV and Alexa. The company adds that iHeartMedia customers can now leverage Amazon DSP including Amazon’s authenticated first-party shopping, browsing and streaming signals across iHeart’s imgowned-and-operated digital inventory both locally and nationally, including digital, audio, podcasts and creator-led content, creating a more unified path for advertisers to activate multi-platform campaigns at scale. iHeartMedia chief business officer Lisa Coffey comments, “Advertisers are increasingly looking for media solutions that combine scale, intelligence and simplicity across channels. By combining Amazon Ads’ shopping insights and advertising technology with iHeart’s audio leadership, we’re creating a more seamless, data-informed way for brands to create more effective campaigns across sound and sight.”

Industry News

LABF Produces America’s 250th Anniversary Content

The Library of American Broadcasting Foundation is releasing a new series of pre‑produced radio and television spots as part of its “Before It Was History, It Was Broadcast” initiative supporting America’s 250th Anniversary. LABF says the new :30 spots feature archival audio and visuals drawn from the Library of American Broadcasting Special Collection at the University of Maryland. Each piece highlights the essential role radio and television stations have played in documenting the nation’s most defining moments as they unfolded. Topics covered range from children’s programming and game shows to “I Love Lucy” and historic moments of national consequence. LABF co-chairs Deborah Parenti and Dave “Chachi” Denes say, “Broadcasters have always been the trusted link between historic events and the communities they serve. These spots celebrate the journalists, storytellers, and stations that have brought defining moments into America’s homes. They also showcase the incredible depth of the library’s archival treasures.”

Industry News

Free Fisher House Radio Special Available for Fourth of July Weekend

Fisher House Foundation is offering its Independence Day edition of “The Fisher House Story” to talk stations for free. “The Fisher House Story” radio special is available in varying lengths – three-hour, one-hour, 30-minutes and 25-minutes for news/talk stations plus a 30-minute public affairs version for all radio formats. It’s imghosted by nationally syndicated talk radio pro Larry O’Connor features interviews with wounded warriors and veterans including heroes from Operation Enduring Freedom, the Vietnam War and an incredible, emotional story of one of America’s World War II living legends. Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. Fisher Houses provide temporary free lodging so families can be close to their loved ones during medical care. Register for the show here.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (June 22-26)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (6/22-26) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

Stories

  1. U.S.-Iran Negotiations / War Powers Resolution
  2. Primary Elections
  3. Housing Bill / SAVE America Act
  4. Reflecting Pool Controversy / America 250 Kickoff
  5. SCOTUS Rulings
  6. Gas Prices / Tech Stocks
  7. AI Concerns
  8. Texas Immigration Center Shooting Convictions
  9. Keir Starmer Resigns
  10. Alan Greenspan / Clive Davis / David Clayton Thomas Deaths

People

  1. Donald Trump
  2. JD Vance / Marco Rubio
  3. Benjamin Netanyahu
  4. Bill Cassidy
  5. Mike Johnson
  6. Zohran Mamdani
  7. Darializa Avila Chevalier
  8. Keir Starmer
  9. Alan Greenspan
  10. Clive Davis / David Clayton Thomas

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

Industry News

TALKERS 2026 Video: Panel Discussion – “Gaining Traction in a Noisy Digital World”

Gaining Traction copyTALKERS 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 power-packed day’s events. Today’s entry is an extremely informative panel discussion full of takeaways titled, “Gaining Traction in a Noisy Digital World.” The featured speakers include introducer Lee Elci, host, WJJF, New London; moderator Mike McVay, president, McVay Media Consulting; and panelists (in alphabetical order) Rob Carson, host, Newsmax; Heather Cohen, president, The Weiss Agency; Sherry Goldman, founder, Goldman Communications Group; Ryan McCormick, co-founder Goldman McCormick PR; and Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo, host, “The Joe Pags Show.” Take a deep dive into the complicated world of social media and generating content designed to get noticed in a world of distraction. Don’t miss this! Stay tuned to TALKERS for daily postings of engaging 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

Rare Interview with David Clayton-Thomas About BS&T Found in TALKERS Archives – Broadcasters Invited to Use at Will

The Grammy Award-winning Canadian singer and songwriter whose powerhouse voice propelled Blood, Sweat & Tears to the summit of popular music, died peacefully last evening at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto. He was 84.

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TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison was friends with Clayton-Thomas and the group back in the early 1970s while he was the morning host at pioneering album rocker WNEW-FM, New York.  However, by the mid-seventies, Harrison lost touch with Clayton-Thomas and the group.  Move the clock ahead to March of 2020 and David Clayton-Thomas was promoting a new solo album – the latest of many that enjoyed hit status in his native Canada – and Harrison had the opportunity to catch up with his old friend in an interview conducted during the height of the COVID pandemic. Clayton-Thomas was quarantining in Toronto, and Harrison was doing the same in Massachusetts. TALKERS has isolated a segment of the archival interview with the rock legend in which Clayton-Thomas recounts the history of how he joined the band.  Interested broadcasters wishing to use any or all of this clip are free to do so.  Please click here. (Photo credit: Marie Byers)

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.”

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.

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 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.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend (June 20-21)

The most discussed stories over the weekend (6/20-21) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. U.S.-Iran Negotiations / Strait of Hormuz Status
  2. Primary Races
  3. Columbian Presidential Runoff
  4. Ukraine’s Russia Strikes
  5. Keir Starmer Resigns
Industry News

TALKERS 2026 Video: “The State of Sports Talk Radio”

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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 one-on-one discussion titled, “The State of Sports Talk Radio.” The special guest interviewee is WFAN, New York brand manager, Ryan Hurley. WPG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley (no relation) is the facilitator. Together they provide insights into a number of sports talk radio issues including the impact of betting on the culture of the genre and the nature of the format’s listener/demo profile. 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

NAB Applauds NO FAKES Act

The National Association of Broadcasters is backing the Nurture Originals, Foster Art, and Keep Entertainment Safe (NO FAKES) Act – a bipartisan bill that would protect the voice and visual likeness of all individuals from unauthorized computer-generated recreations from generative artificial intelligence (AI) and other technologies.

imgThis bill, if passed, would: 1) Hold individuals or companies liable if they produce an unauthorized digital replica of an individual in a performance; 2) Hold platforms liable for hosting an unauthorized digital replica if the platform has actual knowledge of the fact that the replica was not authorized by the individual depicted; 3) Exclude certain digital replicas from coverage based on recognized First Amendment protections; and 4) Largely preempt State laws addressing digital replicas to create a workable national standard.

NAB president and CEO Curtis LeGeyt states, “NAB applauds the Senate Judiciary Committee for advancing the bipartisan NO FAKES Act. Local broadcasters work every day to earn the trust of their communities, and unauthorized AI-generated replicas undermine that trust by enabling deception and the misuse of voices and likenesses of trusted journalists and on-air personalities. This legislation establishes important safeguards against harmful deepfakes while supporting responsible innovation and respecting the First Amendment. We thank Chairman Grassley, Ranking Member Durbin and Senators Blackburn, Coons, Tillis and Klobuchar for their leadership and look forward to working with Congress to advance this bipartisan legislation.”

Industry News

iHeartMedia Announces AudioGraph to Deliver Attribution to Broadcast Radio

iHeartMedia unveils AudioGraph – a suite of advertising capabilities that the company says will, for the first time, “bring digital-like targeting, identity-based planning and measurement, and outcome-based attribution to broadcast radio at scale.” These capabilities are powered by Triton Digital, the global technology and services leader. iHeartMedia says, “The vast majority of audio imgconsumption (64%) comes from broadcast radio, yet up until today, it has lacked the targeting and measurement infrastructure available in digital. iHeartMedia’s broadcast radio stations reach more than 278 million consumers every month, and now with AudioGraph, for the first time, advertisers can plan, target, measure, and attribute that audience using privacy-safe, ID-informed insights with digital-like precision.”

Powered by Triton Digital, AudioGraph makes it possible by connecting a privacy-safe identity spine, enriched audience attributes built from TransUnion data, and proprietary ID-level listening models that enable planning and measurement at the listener level while activating campaigns at broadcast scale. Proof of concept shows that broadcast radio campaigns planned and measured using privacy-safe AudioGraph IDs can deliver a KPI outcome 75% higher than traditional demo-based plans.

iHeartMedia chief business officer Lisa Coffey comments, “Audio has always delivered unmatched scale and human-to-human connection, but measurement and precision have lagged behind digital. With nine out of 10 Americans listening to broadcast radio every month, it’s extremely important that buyers can access this scale and impact with the precision and efficiency of digital media. With AudioGraph, we’ve closed that gap. Marketers can now use audio as an addressable and measurable performance channel at a national scale; with the same accountability they expect from every other part of their media plan.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (June 15-19)

Here are the most-talked-about stories of the past week (6/15-19) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

Stories

  1. U.S.-Iran Agreement
  2. Gas Prices / Financial Markets Activity
  3. Primary Races / Georgia Shelves Redistricting
  4. DNI Hearing Cancelled / Voter ID Law
  5. JD Vance Book-Appearance on “The View”
  6. Newsoms Investigation
  7. AI Concerns / Data Centers Pushback
  8. SpaceX IPO / Musk First Trillionaire
  9. Ukraine Strikes Moscow
  10. Obama Library Opening

People

  1. Donald Trump
  2. JD Vance
  3. Marco Rubio
  4. Benjamin Netanyahu
  5. Rick Jackson / Burt Jones / Mike Collins
  6. Mike Johnson
  7. Jay Clayton
  8. Gavin & Siebel Newsom
  9. Elon Musk
  10. Barack & Michelle Obama

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

Industry News

TALKERS 2026 Video: Panel Discussion – “Journalism, Ethics, the Law, and Credibility in an Era of Fakes”

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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 panel discussion titled, “Journalism, Ethics, the Law, and Credibility in an Era of Fakes.” The moderator is WPHT, Philadelphia midday host Dom Giordano, often referred to as the Dean of Philadelphia talk radio and respected as one of the field’s leading experts on and advocates for education. Panelists include (in alphabetical order): Lisa Wexler, host, WICC, Bridgeport; Sid Rosenberg, host, WABC, New York; Lee Harris, SVP news and programming, WABC, New York / Worldwide News Network; Joe Salzone, news director, Cayuga Media group / host WHCU, Ithaca; and Matthew B. Harrison, associate publisher, TALKERS / senior partner, Harrison Legal Group. 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

Red Apple Ups Harris to SVP of News & Programming

Red Apple Media promotes Lee Harris to SVP of news & programming, up from his vice president of news position with the Worldwide News Network. Now, Harris will also oversee imgprogramming strategy and content development for WABC Radio and Red Apple Audio Networks. Red Apple Media owner John Catsimatidis states, “Lee is a game-changing talent. His ability to build winning content, lead high-performing teams, and understand what audiences want is second to none. As we continue growing WABC Radio, the Worldwide News Network, and Red Apple Audio Networks, Lee will play a critical role in shaping our future and driving our success worldwide.” Harris, who spent nearly 30 years as a news anchor at 1010 WINS, joined Red Apple Media six weeks ago. He says, “Red Apple Media is one of the most exciting and innovative companies in broadcasting today. Under John’s vision and Chad [Lopez’s] leadership, the company is building something truly unique in American media. I’m honored by this opportunity and energized by the challenge ahead. Together, we’ll continue creating compelling programming, expanding our national and international footprint, and delivering content that informs, entertains, and connects with audiences across the country and around the world.”

Industry News

KBLA, Los Angeles Celebrates Fifth Anniversary

KBLA, Los Angeles “Talk 1580” is celebrating its fifth anniversary. The station was founded by media entrepreneur and broadcaster Tavis Smiley whose vision was “to create a station that serves as a reliable community resource, to provide information people can use to improve their lives and strengthen their families, and to engage more deeply in civic and cultural issues from a decidedly imgprogressive perspective.” KBLA contributor Dr. Cornel West says, “Tavis Smiley’s programming fills a content vacuum across the United States and is needed more now than ever. Under Tavis’ bold leadership, KBLA and its program hosts have helped to influence, educate, and engage previously marginalized people across this country. I’m excited for what the future holds.” Smiley says, “Five years ago, on Juneteenth, we launched KBLA Talk 1580, with the goal of providing news and information to a part of Los Angeles that had been ignored or pushed to the side for decades. We’re now syndicated in almost 50 markets across the United States with more growth on the horizon. The best is truly yet to come.”

Industry News

Urban One Announces New Contract with CFO Peter Thompson

Urban One inks a new deal with EVP and chief financial officer Peter D. Thompson that will pay him an annual base salary of $750,000 plus his eligibility for an annual bonus. Thompson also receives a signing bonus of $333,333 subject to a pro-rata claw-imgback if he leaves before the end of the term of the agreement. For each complete calendar year of the term of the deal, Thompson is eligible to receive an annual performance bonus of up to $300,000 with the opportunity to earn up to 132% of the target bonus for superior performance. Also, provided that the material weaknesses identified in the company’s Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2025, are remediated, at the end of the term of the Agreement, Thompson is eligible to receive bonus compensation in the amount of $850,000. He is also eligible to receive certain stock-based compensation.