Monday Memo: Even a Robot Knows!
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
I asked ChatGPT, “What IS ChatGPT?”
Instant reply: “ChatGPT is a pre-trained language model developed by OpenAI. It uses advanced natural language processing techniques to generate human-like text responses to questions and prompts, based on patterns it learned from a massive amount of text data. It is designed to assist with a wide range of tasks, including answering questions, generating creative writing, and translating text between languages. ChatGPT is built using the GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) architecture, which has been state-of-the-art in many NLP tasks.”
If ever there was an elevator speech that sounded robotic, that’s it. But pick almost any other topic, and – quicker than you’re expecting, ChatGPT scours the Internet – and most of what it spits-back can seem eerily conversational. Including my question about conversation itself: “What DJ or talk show host habits do listeners find most annoying?” Mere moments later…
“Here are some habits that listeners may find annoying in DJs or talk show hosts:
— Interrupting guests or co-hosts: Listening to a conversation that is constantly being cut off can be frustrating for listeners.
— Talking over music: A DJ who talks over the music can detract from the listening experience for music lovers.
— Shouting or excessive enthusiasm: An over-the-top delivery style can come across as insincere or artificial to listeners.
— Unnecessary repetition: Repeating the same jokes, phrases, or segments repeatedly can quickly become tiresome for listeners.
— Lack of preparation: A lack of research or preparation can lead to awkward silences, missed opportunities, or inaccurate information.
— Poor phone manners: Rude or abrupt treatment of callers can be off-putting to listeners and impact the overall tone of the show.
— Ignoring listener feedback: Failing to respond to listener feedback or questions can make listeners feel unvalued and disengaged.
— Being too political: Focusing exclusively on political topics or taking a one-sided approach can alienate listeners with differing opinions.
— Playing too many commercials: Excessive commercial breaks can make the listening experience feel repetitive or disjointed.”
With most AM/FM broadcast hours now automated, syndicated, and voice-tracked, even a robot knows what it takes to keep our fellow humans from wandering-off to less-cluttered music streams and greater topical variety that podcasts offer.
Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books; and “Spot-On: Commercial Copy Points That Earned The Benjamins,” a FREE download; and the E-book and FREE on-air radio features “Inflation Hacks: Save Those Benjamins.” Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke
deployed consistently over time can reinforce a visual and verbal brand identity and enhance brand recall” in a radio ad by 17% and in a podcast by 14%. Regarding voice, the study concludes that the most significant and consistent driver for success is the use of multiple voices. Ads with multiple voices increase recall by 10%. Audacy SVP of research and insights Idil Cakim says, “The study, based on an incredibly rigorous design that combines content analysis and survey methodologies, spans creative elements in OTA and podcast ads, across auto, financial service, CPG, and entertainment categories. It shows the impact of creative element choices on how brands are perceived and stay top of mind. And how sonic messaging ushers consumers through the purchase funnel to purchase.” 
the love story of intrepid French scientists Katia and Maurice Krafft, who died just as explosively as they lived – capturing the most spectacular imagery ever recorded of their greatest passion: volcanoes. The radio tour will fill up fast, so book your interview with director Sara Dosa now 
three- to five-minute long messages each weekday. Ice-T says, “I’ve always enjoyed sharing motivational quotes and words of wisdom to help people better their lives. I started sharing quotes on social media and my fans loved it so much, they wanted me to share it daily. Through this new podcast with iHeartPodcasts, I hope these quotes will reach the right people and bring them up to speed on the daily game of life.”
grateful for the support Newsmax is receiving from radio hosts, wanted to speak out directly to the medium further explaining his position. (NOTE: Newsmax also has a footprint in the news/talk radio space as syndicator of the daily Rob Carson midday program.)
bets in their ruthless pursuit to get new customers hooked on their products. In the years since the Supreme Court legalized sports betting, these unfettered advertisements have run rampant, with betting companies shelling out billions to ensure they reach every screen across America. These ads pose a particularly dangerous threat to adolescents and young adults unaware of the risks involved in gambling, and to individuals prone to addiction.” New York State Broadcasters 
Association, Inc president David Donovan states, “We oppose legislation that bans both mobile sports and casino sportsbook advertising in the United States. Advertising is essential to educate consumers in this highly competitive market. The tax revenue generated by sports betting has helped to finance essential government services for citizens throughout New York State. It has stimulated local economies in areas lacking job opportunities. Advertising revenue from these ads helps broadcast stations meet the needs of their communities by financing local news and public affairs programs. A ban on sports wagering advertising prevents all responsible adults from receiving information about a legal product in New York, raising significant constitutional issues. There are more effective options available to address issues concerning problem gambling and protecting children. We look forward to working with Congressman Tonko to explore these options.”
Securities Exchange Commission. For the company as a whole, LiveOne reports Q3 Fiscal 2023 revenue of $27.3 million – a decrease of 17% from the same period in Fiscal 2022. However, the company has reduced its net loss for the quarter from $11.8 million in Fiscal 2022 to $3.2 million. Its Audio Division that includes PodcastOne and Slacker produced record revenue of $22 million in Q3 Fiscal 2023 compared to $19.1 million in the same period in the 
prior year. LiveOne’s CEO and chairman Robert Ellin comments, “Over the past year, we have been laser focused on optimizing and streamlining our operations, led by our audio business, which includes Slacker Radio and PodcastOne. The combination of improving Contribution Margins, coupled with over $30 million in annual expense and overhead reduction, is resulting in record operating results. We are excited about the continued strong growth of paid memberships coming largely through B-to-B partnerships, including our nine-year relationship with Tesla. We expect our strong operating performance to continue for the foreseeable future led by our Audio Division and for it to collectively achieve revenue in excess of $88 million in Fiscal 2023 and generate more than $18 million in Adjusted EBITDA.”
of November during which more than 2,800 radio spots were broadcast on 21 of the most popular stations in NYC. The campaign included digital and social media marketing, trade press, and signage at venues during Advertising Week in New York City. According to independent brand lift analysis by DYNATA, ad professionals who saw or heard the campaign were 29% more likely to consider radio for their media 
campaigns compared to those that had not seen the campaign. Of those that saw the campaign, 82% said they were somewhat/extremely likely to consider using radio for their next campaign compared to 53% of respondents who did not see the campaign. Audacy New York market president and NYC Radio Committee chair Chris Oliviero says, “The outstanding results of the campaign prove when we tell our story, with data and creativity, that radio can substantially enhance its position with advertising professionals. While radio continues to earn its place as an essential part of any media plan, we still must communicate our benefits and invite more marketing partners to collaborate together. This innovative multi-platform outreach accomplished just that. My appreciation to all my colleagues in New York City, across several ownership groups, who came together with a commitment to make ‘Fall in Love with Radio’ a success.”
duties for the 13th straight year, and Kurt Warner returns for the fifth consecutive year as lead analyst. Gene Steratore will also join the radio broadcast booth. For the fourth time, Laura Okmin will patrol the sidelines, along with former defensive lineman Mike Golic, who returns for his second Super Bowl with Westwood One’s broadcast crew. Scott Graham anchors the pregame, halftime, and postgame shows and Ryan Harris provides pregame, halftime, and postgame analysis. Gameday coverage begins at 2:00 pm ET with “Super Bowl Preview,” co-hosted by Scott Graham, Mike Golic, and Kurt Warner, followed by “Super Bowl Insider” at 3:00 p.m. ET with Scott Graham, Jason McCourty, and Ian Rapoport.
communities with local news, entertainment, and community affairs programming seven days a week. The station was built to uplift the voices in the Black community, sharing their stories, ideas and experiences following the George Floyd incident and protests. The station produces a tapestry of content for fans and advertising opportunities for partners that truly represents the Black experience in our city.” The station was honored with a 2022 Anthem Award (from the creators of the Webby Awards) in the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Corporate Responsibility category. Hosts on the station have interviewed notable guests including Vice President Kamala Harris, U.S. Senator Cory Booker, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, musicians Jennifer Hudson and Mary J. Blige, and many more.
study illuminate how Black Americans consume podcasts, discover podcasts, why they listen, and more. The study is a follow-up to the original 
production, proposals and completing all CRM and management required reports for the company. KBLA is looking for a savvy, highly motivated sales professional to join our team selling traditional, digital, and event marketing solutions in Los Angeles for the only Black talk radio station west of the Mississippi. Our ideal candidate is a goal-oriented, relentless hunter who drives to win new business and has a track record of exceeding monthly goals. If you are passionate about selling, have a deep knowledge of marketing principles and products, and possess excellent presentation and closing skills, then we’d love to talk to you!
complement Manny Munoz. The ideal candidate will be well-rounded and well-informed. They must be passionate about South Florida, news savvy, and have a strong interest in current events, politics, and lifestyle issues affecting their target audience. A strong digital platform and social media skills are vital for this role. In addition, all candidates must be proactive and work well in a team environment.
Island. The duo quickly made a name for themselves for not only comedic pieces, but also for being a major part of the community. The show calls itself an on-air town hall meeting and the spot where the local community can discuss all the important, and not so important, topics of the day. They have hosted gubernatorial debates, stayed on the air around the clock during major local news and weather events, and have featured conversations with two sitting vice presidents, 11 U.S. senators, four Connecticut governors, and the biggest names in movies, TV, and rock music.” Connoisseur Media VP of programming Keith Dakin says, “Of their 20 years on the air, I’ve had the privilege to be able to work with them for over half. To see their drive and quest to continue to entertain and inform day after day is truly inspiring. It is not often that you get to work with a show like this that is so woven into the fabric of the community.”
approaching the issue of screentime with their children? Does a cellphone or social media ‘detox’ actually work? Dr. Gupta says, “I am so excited to launch this new season of ‘Chasing Life’ because it’s my most personal one yet. As a dad, I’m always thinking about how to navigate screen time and its impact on my three teenage daughters’ brains. It is one of the most challenging parts of being a parent. It was important to me to bring them into the conversation and go on this magical journey of discovery together.”
feature a new, caller-driven format in which he’ll “take calls from America’s small-business owners to help guide them through the unique challenges they face as leaders in business.” Ramsey says, “Thirty years ago, I started my business from a card table in my living room. I know how hard it is to grow a business and grow yourself. I’m more fired up than ever to come alongside leaders that are in the trenches, scratching and clawing to transform business as usual into the business they dreamed of. This show is everything you wanted to know about business and leadership, but you didn’t know who to ask.” Dave Ramsey is also the author of the #1 best-selling book, EntreLeadership.
Daytona 500 on February 19. JVC Florida director of programming Stevie DeMann says, “ESPN Radio offers the access to play-by-play, nationally known talent, and athletes that cannot be replicated. ‘ESPN 660 Orlando’ will air events like the Daytona 500 and the College Football Playoffs, giving radio listeners long-awaited access to these ‘must listen to’ sports, that previously were not available in Central Florida. We will have the largest selection of compelling sports content on ESPN 660 Orlando.”
from digital sales in 2023 and more local ad revenue coming from video streaming than audio streaming spots.” RAB president and CEO Erica Farber comments, “Digital continues to be the catalyst for growth in today’s environment. A solid foundation in digital is a key driver for today’s successful marketing professional. As technology evolves, revenue and sales gains can only be obtained via digital services and training know-how. RAB continues to provide the training, tools and services needed to realize these gains.” The annual report shows that digital sales in 2022 comprised 19% of total ad revenue, representing between $85,064 for the average small-market station and $1.2 million for a station in a large market. Some market clusters were making tens of millions of dollars from digital ad sales. The full report – an analysis of online ad revenue from 3,753 radio stations, as well as survey responses from 851 local radio buyers and 169 radio managers – is available to RAB members.
working with partners including MAP International (medicines and supplies), Brother’s Brother (medicines and supplies), Feed My Starving Children (rice casserole meals) and Water Mission (safe water). SRN talk show hosts and radio partners raising funds to provide assistance include Mike Gallagher, Hugh Hewitt, Sebastian Gorka, Brandon Tatum, and Eric Metaxas.
year and 7.5 billion engagements on social media. ESPN adds that its ESPN app had its best year with 25.4 million average monthly unique visitors and says that that is “four times more unique visitors than its closest competitor.”
During her tenure, she covered the city’s breaking news stories, including the Boulder King Soopers supermarket shooting and the December 2021 Marshall fire. She has also reported on alleged police misconduct, such as the violent arrest of Kyle Vinson in Aurora, the controversial apprehension of then-75-year-old Karen Garner in 2020 and the fallout surrounding the death of Elijah McClain following his 2019 arrest. Cotton holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in broadcast and electronic journalism from UNC-Chapel Hill. She is professionally fluent in Spanish and is a member of the National Association of Black Journalists and the National Press Photographers Association.
provide aid to radio and television professionals in acute need. BFoA president Tim McCarthy says, “We’re very excited to have Soledad host this year’s Golden Mike Award dinner. She is a multiple award-winning broadcast journalist whose reporting has brought awareness on numerous issues to the forefront. Combined with her philanthropic endeavors, she is the perfect person to host our special evening.” This year’s BFOA Golden Mike Award honoree is Jack Abernethy, CEO of FOX Television Stations. The Lifetime Achievment Award will be presented during the gala frundraiser to Richard E. Wiley, former chairman, commissioner, and general counsel of the Federal Communications Commission and one of the most prominent media and telecommunications lawyers in broadcasting.