Industry News

Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Produce New Election Coverage Podcast

Premiere Networks announces the launch of “24,” a weekly election coverage podcast hosted by Clayim Travis and Buck Sexton. The show debuted yesterday (1/14) and will be available as part of The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Podcast Network. Premiere says, “‘24’ is a highlight reel of that week’s most important election news from ‘The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show’ – one of the leading talk radio shows in America reaching millions of listeners on more than 470 stations nationwide. Whether it’s astute political analysis or candidate interviews, ‘24’ is a curated sampling of Travis and Sexton’s comprehensive coverage of the week in politics.”

Industry News

“Paper Boys” at Dinner

im

Legendary New England radio talk show host/newspaper reporter-columnist/prolific author Howie Carr (right) and TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison (left) shared dinner and conversation last night (1/14) at the renowned hotspot Trevini in Palm Beach, Florida where they discussed Carr’s forthcoming guest appearance on the award-winning podcast, “The Michael Harrison Interview” and Carr’s latest bestseller, Paper Boy: Read All About It (2023 Frandel, LLC). The book is a fascinating memoir following Carr’s life in the media “from the early days at Boston City Hall to hanging out at Mar-a-Lago with President Donald Trump.” Carr is heard daily across New England on his HCRN syndicated four-hour radio show, an hour of which is carried on the Newsmax streaming service. He is also a long-running columnist for the Boston Herald.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend

The 2024 presidential race and today’s Iowa caucuses; House Speaker Mike Johnson’s efforts to avoid a government shutdown; the U.S. migrant crisis; the Israel-Hamas war and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza; U.S. military strikes against the Houthis in Yemen; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the Hunter Biden contempt case; Taiwan elects China-named “troublemaker” Lai Ching-te president; the Martin Luther King, Jr holiday; and the brutal winter cold affecting much of the U.S. were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

13 Ideas to Celebrate World Radio Day 2024

By Michael Harrison
Founder
TALKERS

imThe United Nations and its specialized agency, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) have given the radio industry all around the globe an invaluable gift. It’s called “World Radio Day 2024.” Now in its 13th installment, WRD takes place annually on February 13 with the purpose of spotlighting the accomplishments, importance, and ongoing relevance of the radio medium as it evolves deeper into the 21st century. This year’s theme is “Radio: A Century Informing, Educating and Entertaining.” By officially designating the platform as worthy of its own officially sanctioned UN International Day, the august world body has recognized, spotlighted, and endorsed radio’s continuing relevance and potential for being a vital force for the betterment of humanity.

On a global level, the scope of radio is huge. However, we, practitioners of radio in America, face formidable challenges keeping the spirit and uniqueness of the platform viable as both a business and iconic connector as it faces the growing risk of simply getting lost in the noise and distractions of the ceaselessly evolving digital era. I strongly encourage my American colleagues to embrace WRD 2024 for the fabulous opportunity it offers our industry to make a compelling case for the ongoing importance and positive impact of radio to inform, educate and entertain.

Please read and consider any or all of the following “13 Ideas to Celebrate World Radio Day 2024” posted on the UNESCO website and in TALKERS magazine.

1. World Radio Day Minutes. Air the UNESCO package of 20 pre-produced “World Radio Day Minutes”. They are 60-second audios discussing interesting aspects of the radio medium during its first 100 years of service to humanity. The texts figure in their descriptions so that you have the option of producing your own episodes in other languages. These short-form audios can be programmed on a schedule of your choosing leading up to and on February 13, World Radio Day (WRD). You can run them as non-commercial announcements or offer them for local sponsorships.

2. Talk Shows Celebrating Radio. Program (pre-produced or live) talk shows with local and national experts talking about the importance of radio for quality information, highlighting its 100-year history and continuing relevance. Recruit legendary and retired radio personalities known to your audience to participate in these programs supplemented by real clips from the past to be aired leading up to or on February 13.

3. World Radio Day 2024 Live Event.  Schedule a live indoor or outdoor event (depending upon climate) on February 13 celebrating World Radio Day 2024. Invite listeners free (or charge admission in conjunction with a charity). Feature a panel discussion about the relevance of the entire audio sector in a changing media world as well as local legends telling stories about their service to the public through radio. Supplement it with display tables presenting local businesses and sponsors. Consider holding it on a local college or university campus in conjunction with the school’s communication department. Organize a group of diverse stations (either under one corporate umbrella/cluster or actual competing ones) to join forces in support of information, entertainment and education through radio in general. The results will be beneficial for everyone involved.

4. World Radio Day 2024 Sponsorship with Local Consumer Electronics Store/Chain. Arrange a sales promotion with a local store or chain of stores within your market to offer listeners a significant one-day discount (February 13) on all AM/FM radios and radio-related equipment.

5. International Dialogue. Schedule interviews/conversations (either live or prerecorded) with your broadcast colleagues from other countries to compare and contrast the history and strength of radio in their respective countries on or leading up to February 13. These shows can be simulcast on both stations or simply be one host interviewing another.  For Partnership Opportunities, please check here which stations or partners around the world are interested in collaborative programming and you could contact now.

6. The Greatest “Radio Songs” of All Time.   There are songs in almost every pop music format that contain the word “radio” in them or refer to the medium of radio.  Highlight the “Greatest Radio Songs of All Time” into your playlist intermittently or as a “countdown show” on February 13 in commemoration of World Radio Day 2024. This is an easy and simple way to highlight World Radio Day and create a fun and entertaining programming element.

7. Visit to a Radio Station. Offer guided tours of your facilities to listeners or local school classes leading up to and on February 13 in celebration of World Radio Day 2024. This will be an effective outreach to a younger generation of new listeners and create community goodwill.

8. Radio and Emergencies. Emphasize radio’s impact as an informational public safety net entering its second century of service. Use World Radio Day 2024 as a reason to talk about and remind listeners of the value of the medium to provide a lifeline to the public when the electricity goes out and the internet goes down. There are numerous examples in just the past year alone to draw from in terms of earthquakes, wildfires, and storms in which radio news helped people in distress in real time. This is also a talking point in the current issue about some automobile manufacturers choosing to not equip new car models with AM radios.

9. Theater of the Mind. Use World Radio Day 2024 as a focal point for radio being the “Theater of the Mind” by producing your own locally produced radio dramas and airing them on February 13. You’ll provide intelligent entertainment, support cultural expression, and stimulate listener interest.

10. Radio, the Original Interactive Mass Medium. Recognize radio’s claim to the title “The Original Interactive Mass Medium” and “The Original Social Media” by using these phrases as often as appropriately possible on February 13. Radio pioneered the concept of taking live calls from listeners on the air to give opinions and receive advice in addition to playing musical requests and announcing dedications in real-time on the air. Highlight the interaction with listeners.

11. Take Me Out to the Stadium. Radio was the first mass medium to provide live, real-time play-by-play coverage of sporting events. The history of radio’s connection to sports is deep and rich. There is a lot of colorful sports broadcasting history to discuss in celebration of World Radio Day 2024 and nourish vibrant conversations.

12. Podcasts. Post several new and timely podcasts featuring quality conversations and panel discussions with experts and leaders in the radio profession from around the world as supplemental World Radio Day 2024 content on your station or network website.  You can also generate your own podcasts and programs about radio for placement on your website or general distribution.

13. Positive and Pro-Active – Accomplishment, Pride and Hope. World Radio Day 2024 provides you with a supportive platform and focal point to pursue business, civic and social relationships within your community, and protect free, independent, pluralistic radio.  WRD 2024 symbolizes radio’s century of accomplishment, pride in the present and hope for the future.  Celebrate World Radio Day 2024 spreading this optimistic perspective leading up to, during and following February 13.

For more information, visit https://www.unesco.org/en/days/world-radio

Michael Harrison is a legendary American broadcaster who has served as executive advisor to UNESCO for World Radio Day 2024. He can be contacted via email at michael@talkers.com.

Industry News

Radio Vermont Group Sells WDEV-AM/FM, Waterbury

The family-owned Radio Vermont Group is selling full service WDEV-AM/FM, Waterbury, Vermont to Manchester, Vermont-based Mermel & McClain Management LLC for an undisclosed price. The station had been led by Ken Squier – who took over management from his father Lloyd Squier – for the pastim 44 years. Ken Squier passed away in November and his daughter Ashley tells WCAX-TV, Burlington that the station that’s provided local sports, news, commentary, and more will be in good hands. “I feel that this is a very good day and a very good development. Dad loved community radio.” The station says that former Republican U.S. Senate candidate and former Ethan Allen Institute leader Myers Mermel will serve as owner-operator. Mermel tells WCAX-TV he wants the station to remain local. “We want to look at different ideas and new ideas in order to increase our ability to discover and identify and bring in content.” Read the WCAX-TV story here.

Industry News

CES100th, Radio Roots

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imIf you’ve been seeing CES coverage on network and cable newscasts this week, you’ve heard it called “the Consumer Electronics Show,” despite we-the-media being told not to. They want us to say “CES,” although, years ago, the Consumer Electronics Association changed its name to the Consumer Technology Association, not its first rebrand.

Back in 1924, it was the Radio Manufacturers’ Association, and eventually it became the Radio & Television Manufacturers’ Association. For all those years – and for decades after it morphed into the CEA – this organization advocated for companies that made… things.

Back-to-the-future: Many of the big stories at CES2024 aren’t about products that come in a box. Artificial Intelligence is big here this year, nonchalantly referred to as “AI.” But – because we should avoid initials that aren’t self-explanatory – you’re hearing CES called “the Consumer Electronics Show;” and smart reporters use “Artificial Intelligence” on first reference.

And one particularly insightful session I attended got me thinking about radio’s “initials.” When we say our call letters, do listeners think about what we were, or what we can do now do?

“All Media is Social Media” panelist Isabel Perry, VP of emerging technology at pioneering digital agency DEPT said a mouthful, in a savvy British accent: “Your brand is not what you tell your customers. It’s what your customers tell each other about you.” And declaring that “media is now communal,” fellow panelist and former TikTok executive Melissa Eccles urged “Invite people to participate.”

Robotic music stations with too many commercials are disadvantaged. Swifties don’t need FM to hear Taylor. She’s already on their phones…and Alexa, and SiriusXM, and YouTube, and streams. Talk radio that’s I-talk-you-listen is a caricature. Media consumers expect to interact. As Larry King said, “I never learned anything while I was talking.”

Yes, there are huge TVs and flying cars here, and CES is still gadget heaven. But 100 years ago – when families sat around large AM receivers, seeming to watch what they were hearing – simply broadcasting at-them was a business. I leave Las Vegas reaffirmed that ENGAGING people is now, in gambling parlance, table stakes.

Covering CES this week for TALKERS, I’m also offering stations 60-second reports. Help yourself at HollandCooke.com.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Close Like Crazy: Local Direct Leads, Pitches & Specs That Earned the Benjamins” and “Confidential: Negotiation Checklist for Weekend Talk Radio.” Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

WBT-AM/FM to Present Congressional GOP Primary Debate

Urban One’s news/talk WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte is hosting a debate between candidates in the Republican primary race for North Carolina’s 8th Congressional District seat on Wednesday, January 31,im at Wingate University’s Batte Fine Arts Center. The event will be moderated by personalities Bo Thompson and Beth Troutman and will feature questions for the candidates presented by the station’s late morning host Vince Coakley, afternoon host Brett Winterble, evening host Brett Jensen, and news director Mark Garrison.  It will also include a 30-minute lead-in show hosted by Thompson and Troutman. All six registered candidates for the seat have accepted invitations to take part in the commercial-free broadcast.

Industry News

Dan Patrick to Broadcast from Fontainebleau Las Vegas During Super Week

Fontainebleau Las Vegas will welcome sports media personality Dan Patrick and “The Dan Patrick Show” to Las Vegas for five days of live “Big Game” coverage leading up to the 58th professional football championship at Allegiant Stadium. Patrick’s show, part of FOX Sports Radio’s 24th annual “Superim Week” coverage, will be staged before a live audience – February 5 through 9 on the Fontainebleau Las Vegas third floor Oasis Pool Deck. Patrick says, “Every year when we plan where to take the show for this week – the biggest week in sports – we look to try something new, something fresh and the Fontainebleau is the newest and freshest spot in Las Vegas. The coolest part of this partnership is that over the past few months the people at the Fontainebleau have sent us pictures and videos of the final stages of development. We got a sneak peek. This place is cutting edge with a big nod to old school Vegas throughout. We can’t wait to get out there to do the show, see the fans and enjoy the property.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories for Week of January 8 – 12

The 2024 presidential race was the most-talked-about story in news/talk media during the week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the U.S. migrant crisis tied with the related move to impeach Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, followed by the closing arguments in the Trump Organization civil trial in New York at #3. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed in news/talk media during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Industry News

WHNZ-AM, Tampa Returns to English-Language Talk as “Impact Radio”

iHeartMedia Tampa Bay flips WHNZ-AM from Spanish-language news back to English-language talk radio as “1250 WHNZ, Impact Radio.” It is also heard on 105.9 FM in Hillsborough County. iHeartMedia says, “1250 WHNZ’s programming will bring informative content focused on financial talk as well asim national news and entertainment. The station will play host to nationally syndicated programs like “The Ramsey Show,” “The Michael Berry Show,” “The Joe Pags Show,” “Armstrong & Getty” and “Michael DelGiorno” as well as “Bloomberg Radio.” iHeartMedia Tampa Bay SVP of programming Tommy Chuck adds, “Tampa Bay is one of the fastest-growing communities in the United States. As the region’s economy continues to grow, we are pleased to offer programming tailored to the people making that happen. Around the clock, the programming will keep listeners informed on issues affecting their everyday lives and pocketbooks.”

Industry News

NAB’s LeGeyt Testifies on AI Impact on Broadcasters

NAB president and CEO Curtis LeGeyt testified before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology and the Law yesterday (1/10) at the hearing, Oversight of A.I.: The Future of Journalism. LeGeyt testified that while broadcasters embrace technologies thatim can advance their mission and enable them to better-serve communities with quicker alerts and more local news, he shared broadcasters’ concerns about AI without appropriate guardrails in place. He presented three primary concerns; 1) that the use of broadcasters’ news content in AI models, without authorization, diminishes their audience trust and their reinvestment in local news; 2) the use of AI to doctor, manipulate or misappropriate the likeness of trusted radio or television personalities risks spreading misinformation or even perpetrating fraud; and 3) the rising prevalence of deepfakes make it increasingly burdensome for both newsrooms and users to identify and distinguish legitimate, copyrighted broadcast content, from the unvetted and potentially inaccurate content being generated by AI.

Industry News

iHeartMedia Central Florida’s Barbara Latham to Retire

Longtime iHeartMedia Central Florida executive and current area president Barbara Latham will retire, effective March 29. The 39-year iHeartMedia veteran has served as region president for Central Florida that includes talk WTKS-FM and news/talk WFLF-AM in Orlando, plus numerous music brands since April 2021. iHeartMedia division president Tom McConnell states, “Barb has excelled in multiple roles throughout her tenured career at iHeart. Although we will miss her leadership and strategic thinking, we wish her nothing but the best as she begins this exciting new chapter.” Latham says, “I am so excited about this new chapter in my life. Thirty-nine years flew by! I’m happy to have worked for iHeart for almost four decades, and I’m honored to have had the opportunity to work with and lead a tremendous team of professionals and iconic brands.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Audacy sports talk KRLD-FM, Dallas-Fort Worth “105.3 The Fan” announces a multi-year extension to its flagship broadcast and digital partnership with the MLB’s world-champion Texas Rangers through 2027. As part of the extended partnership, English broadcasts of Rangers baseball will continue to be heard on “105.3 The Fan” and streamed digitally via the Audacy app for fans within the Rangers broadcast territory.

PodcastOne announces the January 24 premiere of “Varnamtown,” a limited eight-episode true crime genre podcast from Epic Magazine, Picture Perfect Federation and Full Picture. Hosted by Golden Globe Award winning actor Kyle MacLachlan and investigative journalist Joshua Davis, the series tells the little-known story of a small fishing village in North Carolina that reputedly did a deal with drug kingpin Pablo Escobar.

Audacy and Amy Poehler’s Paper Kite Podcasts announce the launch of “The Chris Chatman Do-Over,” an improvised comedy podcast series starring actor, comedian, writer, director, and producer Ike Barinholtz. In the series, Barinholtz plays controversial shock jock Chris Chatman striving to improve his reputation after his hit podcast is canceled. Guest stars include Fred Armisen, Ashley Nicole Black, Jessica St. Clair, Ego Nwodim, Busy Philipps, and Alice Stanley, Jr.

iHeartMedia and Charlamagne Tha God announce that the podcast “Woman Evolve with Sarah Jakes Roberts” joins The Black Effect Podcast Network. Charlamagne Tha God says, “The way she is able to showcase the intersectionality between GOD, faith, the word and how to navigate our mental health is extremely powerful. It is a privilege and honor to partner with ‘Woman Evolve’ and assist in amplifying her life changing messages.”

AdLarge announces today that “Infertile AF” has joined the company’s podcast portfolio. The program is hosted by New Jersey-based journalist, author and mother of two, Ali Prato, who keeps it “very real” while diving into the messy, frustrating, painful, absurd and sometimes humorous journey to have a baby. Or in some cases, to not have a baby.

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation extends the deadline to submit entries for the 49th Annual Gracie Awards through January 25 (11:59 pm ET). The regular deadline, with no additional fee, is January 18 (11:59 pm ET). The Gracie Awards, presented by AWMF, has recognized programming and individual achievement by women across all media for nearly five decades. Submissions from television, streaming, radio, audio, and digital media are encouraged.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (1/10) Top News/Talk Media Stories

The 2024 presidential race, the Nikki HaleyRon DeSantis CNN debate, and Donald Trump’s FNC Town Hall; today’s Trump Organization civil trial closing arguments; the Israel-Hamas war; Congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s ex-husband is arrested following an incident between the two; Hunter Biden attends congressional committee meeting about his contempt of congress: U.S. regulators approve ETFs investing in Bitcoin; House Speaker Mike Johnson under fire for spending deal; Houthi Red Sea attacks; and the Aaron RodgersPat McAfee-ESPN relationship were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

UNESCO Offering Radio Broadcasters License-Free Series of “World Radio Day 2024” 60-second Vignettes

World Radio Day 2024 (WRD 2024) takes place on February 13 and TALKERS encourages its subscribers to get involved and take advantage of its many resources. Among these elements, broadcasters around the globe are invited to tap into a set of preproduced “World Radio Day Minutes” – a series of 20 one-minute vignettes exploring and celebrating radio’s past, present and future being made available license-free by the United Nations. Stations, networks and shows can run these in any way they choose as a promotion for radio either commercial-free or attach them to sponsorships by local advertisers. The produced versions in English feature the voices of Michael Harrison and noted commentator Victoria Jones (of DC Radio Company). Unvoiced scripts are available for broadcasters who choose to produce their own versions of these vignettes. Subjects include the invention, history and influence of radio – suitable for every format. Harrison, who has served as executive advisor to the UN for World Radio Day 2024 and wrote the vignettes, says, “The UN’s endorsement of radio as a vital platform for the 21st century by devoting an ‘official day’ honoring it is a welcome credential underscoring the ongoing viability of the medium on a global level. It is to the advantage of every radio broadcaster in America to get on board with this.” The theme of this year’s edition of World Radio Day is “A Century Informing, Educating, and Entertaining.” Hear and download these 20 one-minute produced programs and scripts here.

Industry News

Audacy Receives Approval of “First Day” Motions

Audacy obtains approval from the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas for all first day motions related to its prepackaged Chapter 11 proceedings. As part of these motions, the Court grants Audacy access to $57 million in financing from certain of its existing lenders. This financing is comprised of a new $32 million debtor-in-possession (“DIP”) term loan and a $25 million upsize of theim company’s existing $75 million accounts receivables financing facility to $100 million. The DIP financing, the upsize of the accounts receivables financing facility and the company’s cash from operations and available reserves will enable Audacy to fulfill commitments to employees, advertisers, partners and vendors. The court also authorizes Audacy to continue to pay employee wages, salaries and benefits without interruption and to pay vendors and suppliers. This latest news comes after the company entered into a restructuring support agreement (“RSA”) with a supermajority of its debtholders. Under the terms of the RSA, the debtholders committed to vote in favor of a plan of reorganization that, when consummated, will equitize approximately $1.6 billion of funded debt, a reduction of 80% from approximately $1.9 billion to approximately $350 million. Audacy says it does not expect any operational impact from the restructuring, and trade and other unsecured creditors will not be impaired.

Industry News

Sarkes Tarzian Stations Unite Under ST Radio Banner

Indiana-based Sarkes Tarzian consolidates is six radio properties under the new banner ST Radio and will be led by Brad Holtz, who is named president of the group. He continue in his role as vice president of Sarkes Tarzian Inc. The company owns news/talk WGCL-AM, Bloomington, Indiana in addition to five music brands in the Indianapolis, Bloomington, and Fort Wayne markets. Holtz says, “Consolidating our Indiana radio properties into a single, unified group will make ST Radio more competitive while strengthening our core business. I welcome the opportunity to lead such a talented group of professionals across our three markets and I offer my humble gratitude to Sarkes Tarzian, Inc. for the faith they have placed in me.” Sarkes Tarzian, Inc also owns two television stations and a digital marketing unit.

Industry News

Compass Promotes Robert Blum to VP of Sales Post

Compass Media Networks promotes of Robert Blum to vice president of affiliate sales for sports & news/talk programming. Blum comments, “It is a privilege to work with over 1,200 news/talk/sports affiliates and our awesome array of talent and sports partners. The best part of my job is the meaningful friendships that I have been fortunate enough to build over the years. The best is yet to come.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Edison Research unveils the Top 25 Podcasts in the UK for Q3 2023. This list ranks the 25 biggest podcasts based on total weekly audience reach as measured by Edison Podcast Metrics UK. Interestingly, the American podcast “The Joe Rogan Experience,” ranks #1 in this chart. Other American podcasts making the top 25 include “Stuff You Should Know” from iHeartPodcasts and “Crime Junkie” from audiochuck.

Programming executive Andy Denemark is stepping away from day-to-day operations at United Stations Radio Networks. Gemini XIII Media acquired the company in July of 2023 and Denemark remained on to assist with transitioning several facets of the business. He’ll continue to advise United Stations on various topics and to develop special projects including content for emerging audio platforms.

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc introduces four new members to its board of directors: Becky Brenner, consulting partner at Albright & O’Malley & Brenner Consulting; Dawn Krause, vice president of finance for Midwest Communications, Inc; Maria Laing-Smith, SVP of Mr. Master; and Leslie Scott, VP of digital audio content for Audacy.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (1/9) Top News/Talk Media Stories

Donald Trump’s attorneys argue presidential immunity before DC appeals court; the 2024 presidential race and tonight’s Nikki HaleyRon DeSantis debate; Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s hospitalization controversy; the U.S. migrant crisis and the move to impeach Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas; the aftermath of Boeing’s 747 Max 9 door plug incident; the Israel-Hamas war; 2023 hottest year on record report; the Jeffrey Epstein list and the related Jimmy KimmelAaron Rodgers spat; and the winter weather affecting much of the Eastern and Southern U.S. were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

iHeartMedia Expands Partnership with Magnite

iHeartMedia and independent sell-side advertising company Magnite are launching a marketplace that brings together iHeartMedia’s broadcast radio, streaming radio and podcast assets for inclusion in omnichannel programmatic media buys. Built from a custom implementation of Magnite’s SpringServe ad serving technology, the marketplace enables advertisers to transact with a data-driven approach viaim real-time-bidding across iHeartMedia’s broadcast and digital audio inventory through a single activation channel. iHeartMedia chief data officer and president of revenue strategies Brian Kaminsky says, “With today’s consumers spending a third of their media time with audio, expanding programmatic’s access to iHeart’s audio assets is imperative for the industry. Not only are we expanding what role programmatic can play for advertisers, we are also improving the efficacy of their campaigns by allowing them to use real-time data to message their audience in the most engaging way possible, in an environment of trust and interest. We’re excited to expand our partnership with Magnite because they have proven expertise in programmatic and the ability to build technology fit for the unique needs of audio advertising to take its place in omnichannel.”

Industry News

Brewer Media to Sell Two Chattanooga Signals to Religious Broadcaster

According to the Times-Free Press, Brewer Media is committed to selling sports talk WALV-FM “ESPN Chattanooga” and FM translator W295BI at 106.9 to Lakeland, Florida-based Radio Training Network for $900,000. Brewer sold two other signals to American Family Association in 2021. Company VP Kira Brewer Headlee tells the paper, “Just like any other business, we have to evaluate our operations and make upgrades and changes in our missions.” The company is also planning to move from its current downtown Chattanooga office space to a smaller space in East Brainerd. See the Times-Free Press story here.

Industry News

iHeartPodcast Awards to Emanate from SXSW in March

iHeartMedia announces that its iHeartPodcast Awards will take place live and in-person during the SXSW Conference and Festivals in Austin at the Fairmont Hotel on Monday, March 11 at 8:00 pm CT.im The awards “honor the best and most innovative industry podcasts and creators of 2023.” The ceremony will broadcast live on select iHeartMedia radio stations nationwide, through the iHeartRadio app and via a video stream in partnership with YouTube on iHeartRadio’s YouTube Channel. iHeartMedia Digital Audio Group CEO Conal Byrne comments, “Each year we look forward to celebrating the podcast industry’s most groundbreaking and innovative voices as the medium continues to evolve and explode. Over the past few years, SXSW has become a dynamic and effective setting for us to host many of our interactive podcast panels, discussions, and experiences. There’s no better location to bring this celebratory industry event back, live and in person, than Austin at South by Southwest.”

Industry News

“America in the Morning” Added to Cumulus Podcast Network

Cumulus Media announces that Westwood One’s daily news magazine program, “America in the Morning,” is joining the Cumulus Podcast Network. The John Trout-hosted program presents “up-to-the-imminute news reports from around the country and across the globe, with the latest overnight developments in business, breaking news, politics, sports, entertainment, and weather.” This year, “America in the Morning” celebrates its 40th anniversary and adds the “America in the Morning” podcast to its distribution. The program was originally hosted by the late Jim Bohannon beginning in 1984. He hosted the show through December of 2015, when Trout took over. The show has been recognized multiple times as Best News Magazine by the New York Festivals Radio Awards, and John Trout is a two-time recipient of the Achievement in Radio Award.

Industry News

Lara Trump’s “The Right View” Joins Salem Podcast Network

Salem Media Group announces that the Lara Trump-hosted podcast “The Right View” joins its Salemim Podcast Network on January 16. New shows will be delivered three times per week. Salem SVP of spoken word Phil Boyce says, “Lara Trump is a true star in conservative political circles and has developed a fan base of millions. She is committed to doing her part to save America, and we are thrilled to have her join our excellent lineup.”

Industry News

Deborah Norville to Be Honored with BFoA’s Lifetime Achievement Award

The Broadcasters Foundation of America will honor two-time, Emmy-winning anchor of “Inside Edition” and 23-year member of the Broadcasters Foundation board of directors Deborah Norville with the 2024 Edward F. McLaughlin Lifetime Achievement Award. The Award is given annually to anim individual who has made invaluable contributions to the television and radio industries and will be presented to Norville during the Golden Mic gala and fundraiser on March 4 at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. BFoA chair Scott Herman says, “Deborah is an accomplished broadcaster who has selflessly given a tremendous amount of time and energy to the Broadcasters Foundation. She has led the way on several initiatives, including using her talents on the Foundation’s video and serving as host of the Golden Mic Award gala numerous times. It is our privilege to honor Deborah’s achievements and contributions to broadcasting.” For more information or to reserve a seat or table at the Golden Mic Award gala and fundraiser, please contact the Broadcasters Foundation at 212-373-8250 or info@thebfoa.org.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

The new radio program, “Lou Dobbs Tonight,” officially launched on the John Fredericks Media Network. The program airs daily from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm ET. JFMN says, the program “will provide a platform for robust discussions on politics, culture, and current affairs. The show aims to engage listeners in conversations that challenge conventional narratives and offer a fresh perspective on the issues that matter most. It is a radio news/talk show for lovers of America!”

Triton Digital announces its integration with Amazon Publisher Services, expanding access to premium audio inventory at scale for Amazon DSP advertisers. Triton says, “This integration enables Amazon Ads’ unique interactive audio ads on Alexa-enabled devices to appear across shared APS and Triton Digital publishers, delivering an engaging advertising experience to listeners and enhanced inventory monetization to publishers.”

CNN Audio says award-winning journalist and CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay  Gupta “will delve deeper into how weight fits into our understanding of what it means to be healthy in the ninth season of his podcast, ‘Chasing  Life  with Dr.  Sanjay  Gupta,’ beginning January 16.”

AdLarge announces its partnership with Fable & Folly Podcast Network for exclusive ad sales. AdLarge says, “This partnership underscores AdLarge’s dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices within the podcast community. With over 100 audio fiction podcasts, featuring compelling stories ranging from small town conspiracies, to sci-fi comedies, to Dungeons & Dragons improv, the Fable & Folly Network pushes the boundaries of representation in media.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s (1/8) Top News/Talk Media Stories

Today’s oral arguments before an appeals court over former President Donald Trump’s claim of immunity from prosecution in the 2020 election interference case; the presidential election race; the aftermath of the Boeing 747 Max 9 door plug incident; the Israel-Hamas war; the release of the Jeffrey Epstein documents; Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s hiding his illness and hospitalization; Pope Francis calls for international ban on surrogate motherhood; and Sunday evening’s Golden Globes awards were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Audacy Files for Chapter 11 and Enters into Restructuring Support Agreement

On Sunday (1/7) Audacy, Inc entered into a restructuring support agreement (RSA) with a supermajority of its debtholders on the terms of a comprehensive restructuring that the company says will “significantly deleverage its balance sheet and further position Audacy for long-term growth.” Through the restructuring, Audacy and its debtholders will undertake a deleveraging transaction to equitize approximately $1.6 billion of funded debt, a reduction of 80% from approximately $1.9 billion to approximately $350 million. The company does not expect any operational impact from the restructuring, and trade and other unsecured creditors will not be impaired. To implement the deleveraging transaction contemplated in the RSA, Audacy and certain of its subsidiaries commenced prepackaged Chapter 11im proceedings in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas and has filed a proposed Plan of Reorganization that incorporates the terms of the RSA and is subject to approval by the Court. Under the terms of the RSA, a supermajority of debtholders committed to vote in favor of the Plan, which, when approved, will reduce Audacy’s funded debt from approximately $1.9 billion to approximately $350 million. Audacy’s debtholders will receive equity in reorganized Audacy. Audacy expects that the Court will hold a hearing to consider the approval of the Plan in February and to emerge from bankruptcy once regulatory approval is obtained from the Federal Communications Commission. Audacy has filed with the Court a series of customary “First Day Motions” to obtain Court authority for the Company to continue operating its business in the ordinary course without disruption to its advertisers, vendors, partners or employees. Audacy expects to operate normally during this restructuring process under its current leadership team. During the Chapter 11 process, certain of Audacy’s existing lenders have committed to provide $57 million in debtor-in-possession (“DIP”) financing, comprised of $32 million of a new term loan and a $25 million upsize of the Company’s existing accounts receivables financing facility from $75 million to $100 million. Subject to the Court’s approval, the DIP financing and the Company’s cash from operations and available reserves is expected to enable Audacy to fulfill commitments to employees, advertisers, partners and vendors. Audacy common stock will continue to trade over-the-counter under the symbol “AUDA” through the pendency of the Chapter 11 process. The shares are expected to be canceled and receive no distribution as part of Audacy’s restructuring. Audacy chairman, president and CEO David J. Field states, “Over the past few years, we have strategically transformed Audacy into a leading, scaled multi-platform audio content and entertainment company through our acquisition of CBS Radio and by building leading complementary positions in podcasting, audio networks, live events, digital marketing solutions and our direct-to-consumer streaming platform. While our transformation has enhanced our competitive position, the perfect storm of sustained macroeconomic challenges over the past four years facing the traditional advertising market has led to a sharp reduction of several billion dollars in cumulative radio ad spending. These market factors have severely impacted our financial condition and necessitated our balance sheet restructuring. With our scaled leadership position, our uniquely differentiated premium audio content and a robust capital structure, we believe Audacy will emerge well positioned to continue its innovation and growth in the dynamic audio business.”

Industry News

WNZE-AM, Clarksville, Adds Ramsey Show and Glenn Beck; Rebrands as “The Patriot”

5 Star Media Group rebrands news/talk WNZE-AM/W288DQ, Clarksville, Tennessee as “The Patriot.” The station also adds two new programs to its daily lineup as The Ramsey Network’s “The Ramsey Show” and Premiere Networks’ “The Glenn Beck Show” are added to the program schedule. The station says,im “105.5 FM/1400 AM has a strong history in Clarksville as a source for trusted local news and exciting national commentary. And now, 5 Star Media Group is excited to relaunch the station in a way that honors the spirit of this city and the people who live here. Welcome to ‘The Patriot,’ Clarksville’s newstalk station, featuring local news from ClarksvilleNow every hour Monday through Friday, along with national news from CBS Radio.” 5 Star Media Group operations director Ryan Ploeckelman adds, “In a community with so many military connections – from active duty to veterans, and all the connected families – Clarksville has a deep spirit of patriotism. We’re proud to honor that spirit with this new name and new look for the station.”