TALKERS magazine - The Bible of Talk Radio and the New Talk Media

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | September 13, 2024September 13, 2024 by TALKERS

98.5 The Sports Hub Names Ryan Johnston as New Boston Bruins Play-By-Play Announcer. Beasley Media Group’s 98.5 The Sports Hub, WBZ-FM, Boston has named Ryan Johnston to take over play-by-play duties for the Bruins NHL broadcasts. Johnston replaces Judd Sirott, who recently left the radio seat to move over to TV. The sports radio veteran has been with The Sports Hub since 2009. He’s been the PBP fill-In on 98.5 and the Boston Bruins Radio Network since 2010. Johnston has also been the main host of the station’s Saturday morning “Sports Hub Hockey Show” since 2012. For the past three years he’s been a regular fill-in for the “Toucher & Hardy” (Fred Toucher and Rob “Hardy” Poole morning program.)

Joe Thomas Morning Show Now in Syndication by TMN. 2024 has been quite a year for talk broadcaster Joe Thomas of Charlottesville, VA. He purchased his own station – WTON, Staunton, VA after serving the Charlottesville market for years as morning host of WCHV. Now he has put his morning talk show into syndication through Talk Media Network. It has already been cleared on WZXI in Lancaster, KY and WTTB on Florida’s ‘Treasure Coast’ (as well as his own WTON in Central Virginia). Joe tells TALKERS, “This is such an honor to work with people like Josh Leng and Willis Damalt at TMN. We’re up every morning to help the new listeners get their day started just like we have been for over 20 years!” He adds, “Just like that ‘other’ guy named Thomas [Jefferson] from Charlottesville, my show promises free speech and independence and I hope that it too spreads across America.” For information about “Joe Thomas in-the-morning,” contact Willis Damalt at TMN. 917-603-7148 or willis@talkmedianetwork.com.

Top News/Talk Media Stories for Week of September 9-13

By TALKERS | September 13, 2024September 13, 2024 by TALKERS

The presidential race highlighted the aftermath of the ABC News debate was this week’s #1 story in the talk media. It was followed by abortion at #2. Donald Trump’s legal issues took the #3 spot. #4 was the economy, inflation, and health care. #5 was the migrant crisis and the eating dogs tale. The Talkers Ten^TM 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. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

BOSTON GLOBE: FCC Cracking Down on Unlicensed Radio Stations in Mass – the Majority Cater to Haitians

By TALKERS | September 12, 2024 by TALKERS

The feds call them “pirate radio.” Haitians call them “a bulletin board for the community.” According to an extensive piece by reporter Tiana Woodard in the Boston Globe (9/9) the FCC has issued at least 18 violations to pirate radio stations in Massachusetts since 2020, as part of an ongoing effort by the agency to snuff out unlicensed, low-power FM stations, which the agency said can clog the airwaves during emergencies or play over other licensed, commercial stations. Two-thirds of those infractions, according to a Globe review of an FCC database, were issued to unlicensed Haitian radio stations, which for years have served the country’s third-largest Haitian community outside of the Caribbean country – a population that continues to grow as the state contends with new waves of migrants. Facing fines to the tune of thousands of dollars each, some stations – run by operators with limited financial resources – have left the radio airwaves entirely, choosing to instead take their shows digital with the hopes their listeners will follow. The evolving landscape of Haitian radio in Boston has left many concerned that listeners of these shows – many of whom are older with little internet access, don’t speak fluent English or are recently arrived migrants. These actions have triggered a wave of concern and pushback by community leaders. “They need people to guide them,” said Patricia Sanon, owner of the Pathway Access Services, an interpretation, translation, and immigration services business in Brockton. “They need the right radio station to provide such information to them so they can navigate the system.” She added: “But they don’t have that.” For decades, the FCC has tried to remove unlicensed radio hosts from the airwaves with little success. Operators such as those in Boston would get letters asking them to stop broadcasting, but there was little enforcement to back those warnings; the agency had limited manpower to go after several violators. When the Preventing Illegal Radio Abuse Through Enforcement Act, or PIRATE, became federal law in 2020, the FCC received funding to pursue offenders and issue penalties that are more than 13 times than previously allowed by law. “They’re using these huge fines again as a cudgel, like a stick, to say, ‘Look, we’re really going to get you with these $2 million fines,’” said David Goren, a longtime radio journalist and creator of the Brooklyn Pirate Radio Sound Map, a digital archive of unlicensed shows in the New York borough. An FCC spokesperson said pirate radio can pose public safety concerns, like intercepting emergency alerts or air traffic control. Since the law went into effect, the FCC has issued 115 infractions to pirate radio broadcasts nationwide, according to the agency’s website. Massachusetts is second only to New York, which has 41. To see the entire Boston Globe story, please click here

Audacy Podcasts Enters Strategic Partnership with Non-Profit “The Moth”

By TALKERS | September 12, 2024 by TALKERS

Audacy Podcasts is entering a strategic partnership with acclaimed storytelling nonprofit “The Moth” to handle sales and distribution for the organization’s award-winning podcast, including video, social and sponsorships for live events. To date, “The Moth” podcasts have been brought to listeners in partnership with PRX. PRX will continue to represent The Moth on public radio, which includes continued distribution of “The Moth Radio Hour” to more than 560 stations nationwide. “The Moth” podcast feed will move to Audacy on January 1, 2025, and be accessible on the Audacy app and everywhere podcasts are available. “The Moth” will continue its release schedule with new and encore episodes of “The Moth Radio Hour” on Tuesdays and original episodes of “The Moth Podcast” on Fridays. For over 27 years, “The Moth” has been an instrumental force in the modern storytelling movement, presenting over 60,000 true, personal stories to standing-room-only crowds at events and through storytelling workshops worldwide. Since 2008, these stories have reached tens of millions of listeners each year through “The Moth Radio Hour” and “The Moth Podcast.” Sarah Haberman, executive director of “The Moth” tells TALKERS, “As a nonprofit organization, the opportunity to broaden our reach with Audacy perfectly aligns with our mission of building a more connected world through the art of true personal storytelling. We’re thrilled to partner with their talented team to ensure these vital stories are amplified and heard by more listeners – and help brands connect with our community meaningfully through our audio programming, 600+ live events yearly, 1.3MM+ social media followers, and our digital extensions.”

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | September 12, 2024September 12, 2024 by TALKERS

WJR AM 760 Brings Live NFL Football to Detroit Sports Fans on Monday and Thursday Nights. Cumulus Media announces that Detroit news/talk station WJR AM 760 will air NFL football on Monday and Thursday nights through a new agreement with Westwood One. WJR AM 760 will provide exclusive and comprehensive coverage of the 2024-2025 NFL season, broadcasting Monday and Thursday night regular season football games on the station and in a simulcast on Cumulus Media’s WDVD-FM HD2. WJR AM 760 coverage will also include the NFL Playoffs, beginning with the wild card round and ending with the Super Bowl. Coming up on WJR AM 760’s NFL coverage is the Buffalo Bills match-up against the Miami Dolphins in Miami tonight (9/12) at 7:30pm. Ann Thomas, PD of WJR AM 760, tells TALKERS, “WJR is thrilled to partner with Westwood One to bring Monday and Thursday night NFL football to Michigan residents.”

Morning Host Ashley Sterner Expands Role at Baltimore Public Media’s WYPR. Baltimore Public Media’s WYPR 88.1 FM has announced that Ashley Sterner (pictured above, left), long-time host of “Morning Edition,” will now co-host “On the Record” alongside Sheilah Kast (r). Sterner, a familiar voice at WYPR for nearly two decades, steps into her new role to expand her engagement with the community through in-depth discussions and storytelling. Kast expressed excitement about Sterner’s new position telling TALKERS, “Ashley has been instrumental in how our listeners start their day, and now she brings that same expertise to deepen the dialogue on ‘On the Record.’ We are delighted to welcome her as co-host and look forward to the fresh perspectives she will introduce alongside our engaging program content.” Sterner adds, “I’m excited to share more of Maryland’s stories on the radio and couldn’t dream of working with a better team!” The program, produced by Maureen Harvie and Melissa Gerr, offers interviews involving “audacious artists, intrepid scientists, community leaders, and more.” Sterner will make her co-hosting debut tomorrow (9/13) on the NPR affiliate, with the show broadcasting every Wednesday and Friday at 9:30 am. (Photo by Melissa Gerr/WYPR.)

Broadcasters Foundation Pulls Off Major Fund Raiser to Benefit Industry. A record number of radio and television on-air personalities and executives, plus renowned athletes, turned up on Monday (9/9) for the sold-out Celebrity Golf Tournament, a major fundraiser for the Broadcasters Foundation of America, which helps broadcasters in acute need due to life-altering illness and other catastrophies. Pictured above are the on-air celebrities and athletes who participated at the Siwanoy Country Club in Bronxville, NY. For more information about the BFoA, please click here www.broadcastersfoundation.org

Virtual News Center Adds Missouri Cluster. Virtual News Center – a growing independent news provider for radio stations – is adding five new stations to its list of affiliates with the additions of KCGQ, KGKS, KEZS, and KGIR. The stations serve Cape Girardeau, MO. River Radio, LLC owns KSIM/KZIM Newsradio 960 and added Virtual News Center to the rest of its cluster following the success of the station. “KZIM/KSIM has been very pleased to have a relationship with Virtual News Center over the last several years. We have recently grown that relationship by utilizing the Virtual News Center news writing and production services. They provide quality, timely, news with talent that connects with our listening audience,” says general manager Mike Renick. “Mike Renick and Faune Riggin are doing great radio in Cape Girardeau, and we are excited to make their local news shine with Karen Johnson and Brandon Dickson,” says Virtual News Center owner Joel Dearing. Johnson will anchor daily newscasts for the cluster with reporting from Dickson. Virtual News Center provides market-specific news, weather, and sports content to dozens of radio stations across the U.S. For more information visit www.virtualnewscenter.com.

Bill O’ Reilly is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Video Podcast

By TALKERS | September 12, 2024September 12, 2024 by TALKERS

Is the new communications technology a threat to free speech and privacy? Has the presidency become too much of a media and cultural focal point in our society? How important is character versus competency in judging public officials? What impact is AI having on academic honesty? Is YouTube creating a sea change in the national media landscape? These questions and more are tackled in a fascinating interview conducted by TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison with radio, TV, and online talk icon, Bill O’ Reilly on this week’s installment of “Up Close Far Out” presented by the new TALKERS Media YouTube channel. In addition to being a major cable news/talk TV pioneer and a successful cross-platform talk media commentator still going and growing in the digital era, O’ Reilly is the author of 18 consecutive #1 New York Times best sellers. Harrison and O’ Reilly discuss his new release, Confronting the Presidents: No Spin Assessments from Washington to Biden among an array of topics. Don’t miss this! To view the program in its entirety, please click here.

Yesterday’s (9/11) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | September 12, 2024September 12, 2024 by TALKERS

The aftermath of the presidential debate dominated talk media conversation yesterday followed by remembrances of 9/11. The economy/inflation, abortion, the migrant crisis, the Israel-Hamas war, the Russia-Ukraine war and climate change were also some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday (9/11), according to ongoing research from TALKERS.

Talk Media Had a Dynamic Night – FOX and Other Networks Propose Additional Debate in October

By TALKERS | September 11, 2024September 11, 2024 by TALKERS

Across the nation, talk media hosts from radio, television, cable, podcasting, and YouTube channels were literally working overtime immediately before, during, and after the historic ABC News presidential debate between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris in Philadelphia. TALKERS received reports from across the talk industry that, unlike so many events of this nature that prove disappointing, this debate delivered an edge-of-the-seat, non-stop drama that evoked comparisons to an emotional sporting event like a 12 round heavyweight championship bout during the golden age of boxing. Legendary WPHT, Philadelphia midday host Dom Giordano was in attendance reporting for his station as well as hundreds of others across America that tapped into his swing state perspective on an ad hoc basis. Giordano tells TALKERS, “Being in the Spin Room was like being in the middle of multiple simultaneous rugby scrums while trying to discuss the most sensitive issues for our country.” During post-debate coverage, lead election anchors Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum announced that FOX News Media sent letters to both the Harris and Trump campaigns around 7:30 pm before last night’s debate requesting the opportunity to host an additional debate in October. Here’s an excerpt from the letter:

We propose to host a debate in October while early in-person voting gets underway in multiple battleground states. We’d like to offer the following options:

Wednesday, October 9 in Arizona
Tuesday, October 15 in Georgia
Wednesday, October 16 in North Carolina

Media critic Brian Stelter of CNN reports, “Multiple TV networks are eager to host a presidential debate in October. The Harris campaign, exuding confidence after Harris baited Trump on stage Tuesday night, immediately said she would agree to a second debate with the ex-president. But Trump is not committing, and his overnight comments suggest he is not serious about a sequel.” On Fox & Friends this morning Trump rejected Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum, the aforementioned anchors that FOX suggested as potential debate moderators in October proposing Sean Hannity, Jesse Watters or Laura Ingraham instead.

The next big event in this World Series of politics will be the VP debate between Gov. Tim Walz and Sen. JD Vance to be hosted by CBS on October 1.

Industry Marks 23rd Anniversary of 9/11

By TALKERS | September 11, 2024September 11, 2024 by TALKERS

Although not a five- or 10-year marker of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, talk media hosts across the nation are paying tribute today to the victims and heroes of the catastrophe that has defined a generation.

For touching audio and video material that could possibly be used on air today, please see the story published in TALKERS this past Friday about pieces being made available by political/social commentator C.C. Carter about her recollections of that awful day by clicking here.

Noted videographer and radio historian Art Vuolo contributes an overview of NYC radio from that fateful day. See it by clicking here.

Also, please see a video about 9/11 produced by the talk radio friendly band Gunhill Road titled “My Friend is Going Away” by clicking here or on the player above.

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio Announces Free Virtual Digital Sales Webinar

By TALKERS | September 11, 2024September 11, 2024 by TALKERS

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. (MIW), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to advancing female leadership in radio broadcasting, in conjunction with Beasley Media Group, has announced an upcoming Digital Sales Webinar. This productive and valuable event will feature three of the industry’s most respected leaders and innovators in the digital space: Tina Murley, chief revenue officer of Beasley Media Group; Jenny Sutton, SVP of digital media sales and operations for Audacy; and Shannon Knoepke, market president of Townsquare Media, Minnesota. The webinar is scheduled for Thursday, September 19th at 4:00 pm ET. Topics will include:

• The growing importance of Digital Audio, with a focus on streaming and podcasting.

• Leveraging Social Media as a powerful tool for audience engagement and revenue generation.

• Maximizing the potential of Local Digital initiatives.

• Best practices for Impression-Based Selling, including pricing strategies and performance metrics.

• The role of Third-Party Partnerships in driving success.

• Strategies for enhancing Advertiser ROI through innovative digital approaches.

• The synergistic value of combining Over-the-Air (OTA) and Digital platforms to boost client returns.

“This webinar is a unique opportunity to learn from the top minds in digital sales and gain insights that can help navigate the complexities of today’s media landscape,” said Ruth Presslaff, MIW board president. “We encourage everyone to join us for what promises to be a compelling and educational event, beautifully arranged by Sheila Kirby and generously sponsored by Beasley Media Group.” Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley adds, “We are thrilled to support this important MIW webinar that underscores the vital role digital plays in our business today.”

Register for the webinar here. To learn more about Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc., visit radiomiw.com.

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | September 11, 2024September 11, 2024 by TALKERS

Fox Weather Names Former Weather Channel Exec Jason Hermes as VP/Ad Sales and Partnerships. FOX Weather, FOX News Media’s free ad-supported streaming television “FAST” weather service, has hired Jason Hermes as vice president of advertising sales and partnerships, announced Trey Gargano, EVP of FOX News Media advertising sales. Hermes, who was most recently the VP of content marketing sales at The Weather Channel, began his new role yesterday (9/10) reporting to Dan Realson, SVP, FOX News digital sales. Gargano said, “We are thrilled to welcome Jason to the FOX Weather team as we’re certain his decades of experience in developing and executing innovative strategies will help drive monetization and operations across our growing weather platform.” Hermes tells TALKERS, “In just three years, FOX Weather has become the fastest growing weather service in the country, and I am excited to work with the team to help drive further innovations and brand expansions.” FOX Weather is a 24/7 free ad-supported television service (FAST) operated by FOX News Media.

Dickey Broadcasting Company Names Andy Roth As Director Of Programming For Atlanta’s Sports Radio 680/93.7FM The Fan. Dickey Broadcasting Company (DBC) appoints Andy Roth as director of programming for DBC’s heritage sports-talk radio station, Sports Radio 680/93.7FM The Fan, Atlanta. A 30-year radio veteran, Roth takes the reigns of the region’s oldest sports radio station – home of the Atlanta Braves, the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, and the Official Sports Talk Station of the Georgia Bulldogs. Prior to joining Atlanta-based DBC, Andy had been the sole brand manager for 92.3 The Fan in Cleveland since it signed on in 2011. “We are thrilled to welcome Andy Roth to the Dickey Broadcasting Company family,” says David Dickey, president of DBC. “His extensive experience and strategic acumen will be instrumental in driving our programming and content-creation strategies forward to provide Atlantans and the region’s sports fans with the best shows, insight, and analysis. We are very confident that Andy’s experience and leadership will help us achieve new levels of consumption and listener engagement for our listeners, our team partners, and our great sponsors.”

One More Debate Story Out of Philly. We must share this with you. Last night’s spectacular was a bonanza of activity for Audacy’s swing state news/talk giant WPHT (as is this entire election). The station is the home of Walter M Sterling’s idiosyncratic “Sterling Every Damn Night” 9:00 pm – 12:00 midnight. Sterling (a.k.a. Walter Sabo) aired the entire debate followed by probing analysis from a male entertainer, “Donald Trunk,” in addition to “Steven a baker and bakery owner,” “Thea Landen, a smutty book author,” “Celena Ballerina a senior in college” and the station’s real midday host Dom Giordano. For one hour, they discussed how crappy their food and electrical bills are as well as how confusing the debaters were. A caller thanked Thea for her nightly smutty book readings stating, “She reminds me of my wife.”

Yesterday’s (9/10) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | September 11, 2024September 11, 2024 by TALKERS

Anticipation of last night’s presidential debate and coverage thereof topped the list of yesterday’s topics followed closely by the economy. Abortion, gun control, the migrant crisis, the Israel-Hamas war, the Russia-Ukraine war and climate change were also some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday (9/10), according to ongoing research from TALKERS.

Talk Media Gears Up for Tonight’s Big Debate

By TALKERS | September 10, 2024September 10, 2024 by TALKERS

Proclaiming it “the most important presidential debate in history,” talk media stations and networks across the nation are gearing up with special programs and live coverage to precede, accompany and follow the ABC Network debate between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris in Philadelphia tonight at 9:00 pm ET. Several outlets have requested and received special permission from ABC to simulcast the debate itself. These include CNN (which will be running special shows beginning at 4:00 pm ET as if it were a Super Bowl); Salem Radio Network, which will also run a pre-debate special between 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm ET featuring its top personalities, Dr. Sebastian Gorka, Dennis Prager, Mike Gallagher, and Tony Perkins; and local stations such as WGMD, Rehoboth Beach, DE (“The Talk Of Delmarva”) on 92.7 FM and 98.5 FM, as well as streaming on the WGMD app, and TalkOfDelmarva.com. That will be accompanied by a real-time, interactive blogging event at RealNewsTalk.com. FOX News Media will present live coverage surrounding the debate with special programming available across all of FOX News Media’s key platforms, including FOX News Channel (FNC), FOX Business Network (FBN), FOX News Digital, FOX News Audio and FOX Nation. Cumulus media/Westwood One host Dan Bongino will host a special live edition of his podcast on Rumble preceding and during the debate beginning at 8:00 pm ET.

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | September 10, 2024September 10, 2024 by TALKERS

PodcastOne Names Steve Lehman Vice Chairman. PodcastOne – a leading podcasting platform – announced today (9/10) the appointment of Steve Lehman as its vice chairman, focusing on helping the firm drive both organic and inorganic growth opportunities, as well as advising its senior management with regard to mergers and acquisitions efforts, as well as overall strategy and increasing its shareholder value. Lehman will leverage his extensive background in business and finance having headed both Nasdaq and NYSE companies, as well as start-up businesses in the media, entertainment, and tech industries. “We are pleased to welcome Steve Lehman to PodcastOne. His unique knowledge of content and media, and his successful track record and history in merger, roll-up, and consolidation, perfectly aligns with PodcastOne’s strategy and vision for its long-term growth. We continue to launch new revenue channels with high margins atop of our existing strong infrastructure, and we look forward to leveraging Steve’s experience, leaning into his expertise and relationships as PodcastOne further builds its global brand,” said company president and co-founder, Kit Gray.

Dylan Douglas to Host New Gen Z Political Program Exclusively for SiriusXM’s Progress Channel. SiriusXM announced today the launch of a new “limited engagement” political program, “Young American with Dylan Douglas,” designed to engage Gen Z and other young listeners during the run-up to the highly-anticipated November elections. Starting September 14, “Young American with Dylan Douglas” will air every Saturday at 11:00am ET on SiriusXM’s Progress channel 127, with replays throughout the weekend. Douglas, a ‘22 graduate of Brown University has spent much of his young adult life working on political campaigns and grassroots movements, including as a deputy campaign manager for a high-profile congressional race. Despite growing up as the son of Academy Award-winning actors Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones, Dylan has to this point chosen to work mainly behind-the-scenes in the political world. He’s now stepping in front of the microphone because he feels strongly that his generation needs to play a more active and integral role in shaping the future of the country. Douglas will focus on topics that will be driving young voters to the polls in this year’s election, including some of the defining issues of his generation, such as reproductive rights, climate change, gun control, and much more. He will also speak with politicians and activists to exchange ideas on how Gen Z and politicians can work together to address issues and reach goals that are important to young Americans. Dylan will also regularly engage with his social media followers, including on Instagram, and have them submit questions and topics they’d like him to ask our nation’s leaders.

Annual “Grassroots Radio Conference” Focusing on Progressive Media and Issues Set for New Orleans

By TALKERS | September 10, 2024September 10, 2024 by TALKERS

The annual Grassroots Radio Conference 2024 (GRC2024) has announced that it will be held at the historic Gallier Hall in New Orleans from September 26 to 29, with the theme “Using Our Platforms to Protect Democracy.” Local New Orleans radio stations 102.3FM WHIV-LP and 99.1FM WXDR-LP are hosting the event with a consortium of other local nonprofit radio stations, including WRBH (radio for the blind), WAMF-LP, WTUL and HOWL (Loyola University’s new online radio station). The GRC2024 will be a gathering of community radio stations, independent media outlets, and grassroots organizations nationwide. It is a networking, learning, and collaboration space in independent media. The conference’s stated mission is to empower and amplify diverse voices often marginalized by mainstream media. “We are thrilled to bring the Grassroots Radio Conference to New Orleans this year,” said Liana Elliott, co-founder of host radio station 102.3FM WHIV-LP and GRC2024 co-chair. “As a city with such a rich history of activism and community organizing, we feel that New Orleans is the perfect location to explore how grassroots media can protect our democracy.” The conference will feature workshops, panels and discussions on various topics, including media ethics, diversity and inclusivity in media, fundraising strategies for independent outlets and more. The agenda will include keynote speeches from Thom Hartmann, host of the Thom Hartmann Show and named by TALKERS the nation’s #1 progressive talk show host for over a decade; David Sirota, founder of The Lever and campaign writer for Bernie Sanders in 2020; Monica Pierre, Emmy award-winning journalist and author of several books; Sam Seder, actor, left-wing political commentator, media host; Wade Rathke from ACORN and WAFM-LPFM; and Wajahat Ali, author of Go Back To Where You Came From: And, Other Helpful Recommendations on Becoming American. “The Grassroots Radio Conference 2024 aims to address systemic oppression and amplify the voices of marginalized communities in our efforts to protect democracy,” said co-founder of host radio station 102.3FM WHIV-LP and GRC2024 co-chair Dr. MarkAlain Déry. “This conference is not just about protecting our democracy but also about creating a more just and fair society for everyone.” Registration for the conference is now open.

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

By TALKERS | September 10, 2024September 10, 2024 by TALKERS

Anticipation of tonight’s presidential debate topped the list of yesterday’s topics followed closely by the economy. Gun control, the migrant crisis, the Israel-Hamas war, the Russia-Ukraine war and the Tyreek Hill detainment were also some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday (9/9), according to ongoing research from TALKERS.

The Stars Turned Out for John Catsimatidis 76th Birthday Bash

By TALKERS | September 9, 2024 by TALKERS

WABC CEO/owner John Catsimatidis was joined by a wide array of friends and stars from the worlds of radio, television, politics, and entertainment this past Friday evening (9/6) at his annual charity gala celebrating his 76^thbirthday. The event took place at Cipriani, the swank hotspot on 42nd Street near Grand Central Station. Joining the billionaire mogul of the broadcasting, grocery, and energy industries, were WABC figures including “Cousin” Bruce Morrow and Red Apple Media president Chad Lopez. This year’s event benefited the Tunnel To Towers Foundation, the New York City Police Athletic League, and St. Francis Feed the Hungry. The event drew more than 600 attendees, including politicians, celebrities, and WABC Radio clients. The evening included performances by Tony Orlando and Dawn, Andy Kim, and more. Pictured at the party (left to right): Vinnie Medugno, Joe Piscopo, Tony Orlando, Margo Catsimatidis, Cousin Brucie Morrow, and John Catsimatidis. For more extensive coverage of the spectacular event, check out the New York Post’s Page Six by clicking here.

Monday Memo: Podcasting and Broadcasting

By TALKERS | September 9, 2024September 9, 2024 by TALKERS

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

Listeners now expect what-they-want when-they-want-it. And advertisers want their attention wherever they can get it. So, yes, archiving on-air programming for on-demand consumption has value. Respecting how scarce attention is, this tip: In addition to whole-hour airchecks, offer short, single-topic show excerpts, and title them as obviously as possible. Don’t expect listeners to click-click-click through or sit-through an hour-long aircheck for three great minutes about “How to keep Alexa from spying on you.” So post-and-Tweet that. Otherwise, understand how broadcasting and podcasting are cousins, not siblings.

How podcasting is unlike radio: AM/FM broadcasters’ content is mass-appeal, and locally-oriented. But the best podcast topics are “narrowcast” stuff. And you’re on what we used to call “the Worldwide Web.” So going real narrow is opportune. Example?

Do a podcast about gardening, and you’ll get lost-in-the-weeds. Do one about growing vegetables year-round in a vertical hydroponic garden in a closet and you’ll click.

How successful podcasts are like radio: You’re asking for attention. And with so much competition for it now, that’s a big ask.

That’s where professional broadcasters have an advantage over amateurish podcasters. Best practices that radio has spent 100 years proving are techniques that can earn you habitual listening.

More, including what TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison considers the #1 success factor in podcasting, here: http://getonthenet.com/podcasting.html

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “The Local Radio Advantage: Your 4-Week Tune-In Tune-Up” and “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 and connect on LinkedIn.

iHeartMedia Tulsa Expands 1300 “The Patriot” to FM and HD

By TALKERS | September 9, 2024September 9, 2024 by TALKERS

iHeartMedia Tulsa has expanded the reach of 1300 The Patriot (KAKC-AM), “Oklahoma’s home for Real Talk,” to additional platforms. The station is now simulcasting to its new home on 93.5 FM and 106.1 HD2, in addition to its current frequency at 1300 AM and streaming on iHeartRadio. “‘The Patriot’ has become a trusted voice in Oklahoma, and this expansion is a testament to its success,” says JC Lowe, area president for iHeartMedia Tulsa. “By broadening our reach to FM and HD, we’re ensuring that even more listeners can engage with the high-quality talk and news content that ‘The Patriot’ delivers every day.” JJ Ryan, SVP/programming iHeart Media Tulsa adds, “The expansion to FM and HD radio allows our audience to enjoy ‘The Patriot’ on whichever platform they prefer — whether that’s on AM, FM, HD radio, or digitally through iHeartRadio. Regional news director and PD Brian Gann has done an outstanding job in transforming KAKC-AM into a trusted source for both local and national news. We’re proud to continue offering top-tier programming from national personalities including Michael DelGiorno, Glenn Beck, and Clay Travis & Buck Sexton.”

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | September 9, 2024September 9, 2024 by TALKERS

Canceled (WOKV-FM, Jacksonville) Talk Radio Host Returns With Political Podcast “Mark Kaye Saves the Republic!”Radio talk show host and Newsmax TV personality Mark Kaye tells TALKERS that he’s launching an entertaining new political podcast, “Mark Kaye Saves the Republic!” The new daily podcast and livestream promises to deliver fun and informative takes on breaking news and political headlines. Mark approaches the show with his trademark high energy and quick wit to create what he describes as “a cool atmosphere for all his loyal listeners affectionately called Kayetriots.” Kaye states, “I am beyond excited to create entertaining and informative daily content again. Since I was canceled [by WOKV-FM, Jacksonville], my audience has been struggling to find real news and true conservative values on the radio or anywhere else. This is not just another news podcast. It’s an online world where patriotic Americans come together to get the daily information and inspiration they need to keep fighting for this great country. My listeners and I are going to save the republic and we’re going to have a lot of fun doing it!” The show kicks off this week with live coverage from the Presidential Debate in Philadelphia. “Mark Kaye Saves The Republic!” is produced by Kayetriot Media.

Heidi Harris Inducted Into the Nevada Broadcasters Hall of Fame. After 26 years in radio including stints at KXNT and KDWN in Las Vegas, veteran talk show host Heidi Harris was inducted into the Nevada Broadcasters Hall of Fame this past weekend (9/7). Harris tells TALKERS, “It’s an honor to be recognized by the Nevada Broadcasters Association, which works tirelessly on behalf of the broadcasting community, and awards generous scholarships every year to the next generation of broadcasters.” Harris continues to be a trailblazer presenting “The Heidi Harris Show” as an online streaming and video podcast production.

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend (9/7-8)

By TALKERS | September 9, 2024September 9, 2024 by TALKERS

The presidential race was the dominant topic in news/talk media over the weekend, including anticipation of the forthcoming debate between former President Donald Trump and VP Kamala Harris. This was followed by the Israel-Hamas war, the Russia-Ukraine war, the economy-inflation, the migrant crisis and the kickoff of the NFL season with attention given to the detainment of Dolphins star Tyreek Hill by Miami police on his way to the game which were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.

Connoisseur Morphs WICC, Bridgeport into “The Voice of Connecticut” to Fill Gap Left by the Late WCBS 880

By TALKERS | September 6, 2024September 6, 2024 by TALKERS

Connoisseur Media tells TALKERS about a variety of significant changes for its Western Connecticut news/talk powerhouse, WICC 600 AM, Bridgeport – changes inspired by the closing of Audacy’s WCBS 880 in adjacent New York City. WICC is now “The Voice of Connecticut” expanding its reach by simulcasting on 95.9 FM, previously home to classic rock formatted “The Fox.” This strategic move is designed to strengthen WICC’s position as Fairfield County’s premier source for news, talk, and information. A pivotal part of this transformation is WICC’s new affiliation with CBS News, which will provide national news coverage at the top of every hour. Station officials tell TALKERS, this partnership reinforces WICC’s role as the region’s trusted news source, delivering timely and credible information to the communities it serves. “This rebranding and expansion to 95.9 FM represents a pivotal moment for WICC,” stated Keith Dakin, VP of Programming for Connoisseur Media. “The talent on our team, coupled with our new affiliation with CBS News, will allow us to meet the demand for news and talk programming in Southern Connecticut. We’re excited about this next phase and looking forward to serving a much wider geography and bigger audience.” But, as the saying goes, that’s not all. A new local daytime show from 12:00 noon-2:00 pm ET will be added beginning September 30^th hosted by Brigitte Quinn who was the creator, host, and managing editor of “Newsline” on WCBS 880. She was the station’s first female morning-drive anchor and later anchored mornings on 1010 WINS. Quinn’s TV career includes roles at MSNBC, NBC News at Sunrise, and Fox News Channel. Quinn remarks, “Ever since my family and I moved back to beautiful Connecticut, I’ve become a faithful WICC listener. I’m delighted to be joining such a great news/talk radio station, ‘The Voice of Connecticut.’” Quinn’s addition brings WICC’s entire daytime lineup local as she joins talk hosts Melissa Sheketoff 5:00 am -10:00 am, Lisa Wexler 10:00 am-12:00 noon and Paul Pacelli from 2:00 pm-6:00 pm. New additions to weekend programming also include Emmy nominee Chef Plum, Mike Cerulli of WTNH, New Haven, and Dave Ruden of the Ruden Report covering local high school sports. The station plans to continue evolving in this direction with one more critical news reporter position to fill. “We invite Fairfield County listeners to tune in to ‘The Voice of Connecticut,’” says Kristin Okesson, SVP of Connoisseur Media Connecticut. “Our affiliation with CBS News paired with these exciting changes in programming reinforces our commitment to deliver modern, engaging content and we’re confident that our audiences will appreciate the new ‘voice’ they hear. I’m especially proud that our daytime shows are hosted by four incredibly talented hosts – three of them in particular are outstanding women in their own right.” WICC can be streamed at voiceofct.com. For more insight into these changes, check out WICC host Lisa Wexler’s interview conducted on air yesterday with company CEO Jeff Warshaw by clicking here.

Newsmax Files With SEC for Initial Public Offering, Plans to List on NYSE

By TALKERS | September 6, 2024September 6, 2024 by TALKERS

Chris Ruddy

Newsmax Inc. tells TALKERS it has confidentially filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission an offering statement and expects to conduct an initial public offering later this year or in early 2025. The company seeks to raise up to $75 million in its public offering under Regulation A+, the largest offering of its kind to date on a national securities exchange. The company expects to apply to be listed on the NYSE under the ticker symbol “NMAX.”

The company’s subsidiary, Newsmax Media Inc., operates the nation’s fourth highest-rated cable news channel. In July, Nielsen reported that Newsmax was the seventh highest-rated cable channel overall among daytime viewers. Newsmax reaches more than 40 million Americans regularly through its platforms in television, streaming, online, and in print. “The success of our mission to provide Americans with honest and real news is reflected by our loyal and growing following,” Newsmax founder and CEO Christopher Ruddy tells TALKERS. In advance of this contemplated initial public offering, Newsmax has launched a private placement offering to raise $150 million.

For a limited time, eligible investors will be able to invest in this private offering. The private offering is solely available to accredited investors. Individuals interested in learning more about these Newsmax investment opportunities and registering an indication of interest can go to the green sign-up box at www.NewsmaxInvest.com to receive information.

iHeart Atlanta Names Jill Strada SVP of Programming

By TALKERS | September 6, 2024September 6, 2024 by TALKERS

iHeartMedia announced today (9/6) that Jill Strada has been named Senior Vice President of Programming for Atlanta, effective immediately. iHeartMedia Atlanta has six radio stations in the market comprised of talk, news, and music formats. Estrada will be responsible for oversight of all the Atlanta stations. She will report to market president Spencer Bynes who tells TALKERS, “We are thrilled to welcome Jill Strada to the iHeart Atlanta team. Jill has a remarkable talent for launching, developing, and elevating brands in fiercely competitive markets. Her proven track record of success and unwavering dedication to excellence make her an outstanding addition to our leadership team.” Strada joins the Atlanta market from Cox Media Group Miami, where she most recently served as director of operations.

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | September 6, 2024September 6, 2024 by TALKERS

Beasley Broadcast Group Launches Exchange Offer, New Notes Offer, Tender Offer and Consent Solicitations Relating to Existing Notes. Beasley Broadcast Group is offering, to people who hold its current debt, the opportunity to exchange their existing debt for new debt with slightly better terms, as well as some shares of the company’s stock. The company is also giving an option for those debt holders to sell part of their debt for cash, though at a lower price than its original value. Beasley hopes this will help improve its financial situation by reducing its debt and extending the deadline for paying it off. Most of their debt holders are already on board with this plan.

FOX Weather Debuts Sports Weather Video Podcast. FOX Weather meteorologists Ian Oliver and Steve Bender are debuting a one-of-a-kind sports weather video podcast entitled “Storming the Field” today (9/6). The podcast, which will air each week during the NFL season, will be made available on FOXNewsPodcasts.com, FOX Weather’s YouTube page and stream Friday nights on FOX Weather from 11:00 -11:30 pm ET. Featuring FOX Weather’s exclusive Risk of Weather Impact (ROWI) forecast, Oliver and Bender will break down how the weather will affect each week’s top NFL games and players. They will be joined by a special guest to preview each game, detail how the teams will handle the elements and explain the impact weather will have on the fan experience, fantasy football and sports betting. Free agent NFL running back Melvin Gordon III is Oliver and Bender’s guest on today’s first episode.