Monday Memo: Be Like Mike
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
Remember the old Gatorade commercial? The “Be like Mike” jingle accompanied a montage of gravity-defying Michael Jordan dunks.
If you’ve heard Mike Hulvey speak, you know his birthday and blood type, because he told you, in his enthused trademark close: “March 4th and B positive!”
Before he recently hit-the-ground-running as Radio Advertising Bureau CEO and president, Mike was my longtime client when he ran Neuhoff Media. I consulted his news/talk/sports WSOY, Decatur and trained news people at other stations in the group. And the company’s “Media Made Locally” mantra was more than a slogan: “Nothing makes us happier than knowing that while our big corporate competitors are abandoning all the things we think make local media special – we’re doubling down.”
With broadcasters now so challenged by non-AM/FM audio competitors – and coping with cost cuts – the “Core Values” that clicked in these small Midwest markets seem like a prescription for stations everywhere:
1. Grit: “Stick with it.”
2. Community: “Give back.”
3. Innovation: “Think different.”
4. Excellence: “Be exceptional.”
In too many places now, a legacy call letter station is referred to as “the AM” within multi-station clusters and is bundled with music stations’ inventory… not the best sales model in Mike’s estimation: “The news/talk format offers endless opportunities to local clients.” Offered properly, these stations have “unique attributes and programming that lend itself to customize sponsorship and marketing extensions in any size market;” with otherwise “hidden gems that create opportunities for naming rights inside local sports and benchmark sponsorships as the local expert,” creating what he calls “lean-in listening that benefits advertisers.”
Live-N-local 24/7 seems quaint now, so we leverage imported programming, to make it sound more like part of the station’s own on-air family, rather than sounding like we’re an affiliate plugged-into the bird. The day Mike first introduced me at WSOY, I told the morning host: “We’ve got to get your voice in Rush Limbaugh and the Cardinals games more.”
Back to the future: With Monday-Friday syndicated talk programming mostly political, I asked Mike, “Could the sort of non-political shows that were such weekday winners for the late-great KGO and Buckley-owned WOR make a comeback?” His take: “I say yes. I believe that great locally targeted content is still a winning formula of success. While we as consumers have more choices than ever, we still crave information about where we live, work, and raise our families. While national political content has a very loud voice in the market, listeners appreciate those locally ‘world famous’ voices from where they live.”
Evidence, from the vault: 2-minute video, Mike explaining how winning radio is a relationship: https://youtu.be/wcsqrN7R7Ic
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.
addition of The John Fredericks Radio Network into the Memphis market combined with its airing on WENO, Nashville creates the Tennessee Radio Network, “part of the company’s ongoing growth.” The addition of KQPN-AM “Down And Dirty 730” makes the number signals operated by Disruptor Radio now 19. John Fredericks states, “Adding Memphis to our burgeoning Tennessee network is a critical component to our growth plan, as it complements our very successful WENO-AM 760 The Flame station in Nashville. Memphis is a growth market in Tennessee and we are excited to offer our new listeners a real choice in conservative-populist talk: The Down And Dirty 730.”
trade publication’s most popular features. He also recently appeared as the moderator of the “Generating News/Talk Revenue” panel at the recent TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond conference – a role he also played at the 2023 installment of the TALKERS conference. Lapa was highly active as an advisor to Newsmax Media for the past decade in the development of its multimedia operations including Newsmax Radio. Starting on-air, then working through the ranks of programming, production and sales, Steve Lapa, at age 25, became the youngest general manager in the US of a group owned top 30 DMA radio station WGRQ, Buffalo. Continually assigned to lead turnaround properties, Steve focused on delivering revenue and audience growth through the insightful opportunities blending on-air talent creating unique programming with high-profile event partnerships. He quickly became a category innovator. Steve’s first-mover concept, developed in the early era of superstar stadium concerts, proved highly profitable across program channels, talents, and venues at all levels. Steve held upper-level management positions at 28 radio and TV stations for public and privately held companies from South Florida to San Francisco. One of his most recent positions was as VP/GM of talker WFTL, Fort Lauderdale/Miami. After successfully managing and innovating for others, Steve and financial partner Myer Feldman co-founded Ardman Broadcasting of Florida and Cape Cod, to acquire underdeveloped broadcast assets, which were developed then divested at 200-400% returns. Steve went on as founder of his own Lapcom Communications generating the same results at his wholly owned stations. Lapcom Communications was the parent company for Lapa’s current business activities until his death today. More information including arrangements will be posted when available.
Zobrist tells the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that the change is financial in nature as he is actively seeking a buyer for the station. Leaving KFNS-AM are morning hosts Cam Janssen, Charlie Marlow, and Jim Hayes; late morning host Frank Cusumano, and afternoon personalities Nate Lucas and Bernie Miklasz. In the FOX Sports Radio press release, Zobrist says, “We’re excited to expand our partnership with FOX Sports Radio to bring the biggest names in the sports talk format to St. Louis. Broadcasting FOX Sports Radio’s lineup, along with local play-by-play, will continue our commitment to delivering bold, exciting and entertaining sports talk to our listeners.”
contribution limit of $5,800. Spadea, Townsquare Media and two other candidates – Jon Bramnick and Jack Ciattarelli – have submitted their responses to the ELEC’s Order to Show Cause. Spadea and his attorneys argue that the ELEC’s Order jumps the gun. “The attempt here to treat the policy and news discussions of Mr. Spadea’s radio program as an in-kind contribution to his campaign unambiguously violates the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the US Constitution and cannot and would not survive judicial scrutiny. What is rotten is the concept that Mr. Spadea should have to—on short notice in a newly created process, and without any complaint or evidence of a campaign finance violation in this Commission’s jurisdiction— ‘show cause’ and defend himself in advance of exercising his right to free speech.” For their part, lawyers for Bramnick and Ciattarelli cited examples of Spadea discussing issues relevant to New Jersey voters, including how state funds are spent, regularly on his show. The attorney for Ciattarelli writes, “Spadea and Townsquare cannot credibly suggest that allowing Spadea to be on the radio for four hours per day to discuss his opinions on politics and policy issues is not providing his candidacy with a ‘thing of value’ or contribution while at the same time they are charging Ciatarelli $500 per minute for airtime. Once Spadea declared as a candidate and filed a Form-D1 he and his employer became subject to the New Jersey Campaign Contributions and Expenditures Reporting Act.”
programming leadership team, talent, and content creators nationwide. Sottolano will also work closely with the company’s product and technology teams as it enhances its creator tools and delivers new digital experiences for consumers and advertisers. He will also collaborate with its podcast leadership team on the development and launch of new titles. Audacy chief operating officer Susan Larkin states, “Jeff has a track record of success. He and our programming and brand leaders have executed market-winning content strategies and initiatives that deliver for our listeners and advertisers. Jeff’s leadership has been instrumental in elevating our performance across all platforms, and this promotion underscores our confidence in his ability to continue growing our best-in-class brand portfolio.” Sottolano joined Audacy (then-Entercom) in 2001 as an intern and has served as EVP and head of programming since 2021. 
the John Fredericks Radio Network. Carson’s show airs in the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm daypart. Additionally, Jeri Lyn Broadcasting’s KHTS-AM, Santa Clarita, California picks up the weekend edition of the “Rob Carson Show” for broadcast Saturdays at 3:00 pm. 
watching video podcasts. Sixty-two percent of weekly podcast listeners 13+ have enjoyed video podcasts passively, with the video content playing in the background while listening to the audio. Meanwhile, the data reveals a compelling point – 72% of weekly podcast listeners 13+ have enjoyed video podcasts actively, meaning they have watched video as they listen to the podcast. Edison says, “Podcasts with video elements also allow creators to repurpose content into short, engaging clips tailor-made for social media platforms – think YouTube shorts, TikTok, or reels on Instagram or Facebook. This strategy can work to enhance a show’s digital presence, while amplifying the reach and engagement of podcasts overall.”
to Bones’ Nashville Podcast Network. In each show, Dr. Josie sits down with co-host Shannon Ella to answer questions she’s constantly hearing at the office, including: What should I feed my dog? How do I potty train my puppy? Do I really need to brush my pet’s teeth? She helps listeners navigate pet ownership through sharing cases she’s seen in her 15+ year career as a veterinarian, answering listener calls, and giving her weekly “Paw & Order” list of things she would never do with her own pets. 
Leland Conway and Mark Larson host from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. KOGO program director Mary Ayala says, “I’m thrilled about our new afternoon lineup. It showcases some incredible local talent who are ready to tackle tough San Diego issues head on in addition to providing listeners with insights and perspectives on national news and politics as we navigate this crucial election year.” Penrose comments, “I am excited about the announcement of this new contract with iHeartMedia and proud to be serving under a great San Diego leadership team. Onward and upward for Newsradio 600 KOGO and San Diego. Let’s GO!”
Kelley is taking the high road, writing in a Facebook post, “Nothing lasts forever. I have spent the last 19 years of my career working for Cox Media Group. But that ended today. I can honestly say that CMG has been the best part of my 41-year career. I walk away with marketable skills, good friends, and countless contacts. Shed no tears for me. I’m blessed beyond words. If you ever get a job offer from CMG, take it. You won’t regret it.”
11:00 pm ET July 15 through July 18 before a live studio audience in Milwaukee’s Deer District. Host Greg Gutfeld, panelist Kat Timpf, and three guests will appear on each show. The live show will follow FOX News Channel’s “Democracy 24: Republican National Convention” special primetime coverage helmed by Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum.
states in a press release, “It’s with a great deal of regret that I announce today the end of an era in local broadcasting. KURM has been a mainstay in this region for nearly 45 years, dedicated to the coverage of local events across a three-state region. Our style of radio is hard to do. That, coupled with some unfortunate health circumstances, have led to this decision.” Steve Womack put the station on the air in 1979 and the Herald Leader says he managed it for 11 years before leaving to join the Army ROTC program at the University of Arkansas. Steve Womack tells the paper, “It’s a sad day, to be sure. But over time, not only has this business changed dramatically, but the listening habits of people have changed. There are simply too many outlets competing for consumers. My father is an institution. He’s among the last of a vanishing breed. He is KURM, and if he is unable to continue, it is fitting that the station retires with him.” 
am to 10:00 am with “news, interviews, and entertainment, with a relaxed vibe that listeners want on weekends.” Red Apple chief John Catsimatidis states, “Presenting listeners with captivating, interesting programming and big-name hosts always wins, and we have seen proof of that with our growing weekend audience. Our listeners on WABC Radio have gravitated towards the interesting programs we deliver on weekends, including ‘The James Golden Show’ on Saturday mornings.”
Celebrity Golf Chair. This year, the Broadcasters Foundation will debut The BFOA Pickleball Challenge, which will take place from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm, followed by cocktails and dinner. The Pickleball Challenge is designed to give junior-level broadcast professionals the opportunity to network with their peers and executives, learn more about the Foundation’s charitable purpose, and have fun. MacCourtney states, “The Celebrity Golf Tournament is the second largest Fundraiser for the Broadcasters Foundation. The funds we raise are essential to continuing the Foundation’s mission. Requests for aid continue to escalate and we must be there to help every broadcaster who qualifies.” 
available through both major podcast platforms is a testament to SuperTalk Mississippi Media’s commitment to keeping more and more listeners up to date with what’s going on across the state. I’m very proud of our news team and their ability to not only broadcast accurate news but deliver it to the masses in more ways than just the radio dial.” SuperTalk Mississippi Media news director J.T. Mitchell adds, “While radio is still incredibly effective in delivering news and I don’t believe that’s ever going to change, we want to offer more ways for our listeners to have news at their fingertips. I am so thankful for the team’s willingness to adapt and thrive as we find more ways to reach Mississippians and keep them informed on a daily basis.”
welcome back ESPN NFL insiders Adam Schefter and Field Yates, who will be sharing their expert insights and engaging with fans throughout the event.” ESPN Chicago director of content Danny Zederman states, “‘Football Fest’ is the unofficial kickoff of the NFL season, and I am excited about this year’s fest, from the stars we’ll have in the room to the show we have planned. We listened to fan feedback, and we’ve added new ways for fans to interact with their favorite ESPN Chicago and Bears Radio Network personalities, as well as a live onstage version of our fan-favorite, unfiltered podcast ‘Crosstalk Unhinged’ with Carm, Jurko, Waddle, and Silvy.”
stations mostly for classic hits and adult contemporary music formats. Prior to syndication, Kent worked on the air and in programming at legendary Top 40 stations including WLS, Chicago; KLIF & KFJZ Dallas-Ft Worth; WIBG Philadelphia and more. On the passing of Tom Kent, TALKERS founder Michael Harrison states, “He was a quintessential practitioner of one of America’s great forms of audio art – top 40 radio. The disc jockey, in that now almost completely extinct genre, was a uniquely specialized vocal performer akin to being a singer or musical instrument deftly inserted within the hyper-dynamic backdrop of a symphony known as a radio format. Art Vuolo’s video captures not only the superb talent possessed by Kent in executing this amazing audio choreography – but amply displays his passion for excellence and behind-the-scenes pride. When Kent seamlessly hits the posts on driving rock intros of songs with which he is intimately familiar and pumps his fist with glee when pulling it off, it unleashes an adrenaline rush similar to a pro basketball star landing a slam dunk and swinging that extra second from the rim. 
of Virginia teamed up with the Richmond Flying Squirrels baseball team for an awareness campaign and fundraiser called, “Pie Dad in the Face,” which takes place during home games at The Diamond. Katz says, “I ‘volunteered’ knowing full well that my kids were unavailable, but my best friend Jamal offered the services of his son Judah who was more than happy to lay the whipped cream down on Uncle Jeff.”
show will be an extension of his humor and expansive knowledge in sports and culture that’s highlighted every day on @Super70sSports. In addition to the show, Cobb will also make appearances across OutKick programs, including “Don’t @ Me with Dan Dakich,” “OutKick The Morning with Charly Arnolt,” “OutKick The Show with Clay Travis” and “Hot Mic with Jonathan Hutton & Chad Withrow.”
$63,000 for unit members in New York or Los Angeles and $58,000 for members in other locations; Annual minimum salary increases of 3% in the first year of the contract, and 2% in the second and third year of the contract; Continued 401(k) match, after the company cut the match for non-union employees; and the right to bargain over any implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace. In a statement, the iHeart Podcast Network’s bargaining unit states, “We are incredibly proud to announce the ratification of our first contract. After two long years of bargaining, we’ve landed on a contract that we feel greatly improves our working and everyday lives. We are excited to begin life under a union contract and to continue to advocate for our entire unit.”