Industry News

Urban One Announces Management Promotions

Urban One announces a number of promotions in operations and programming across several of its markets. At the Radio One Washington DC station group, A Plus is named operations manager for the cluster that includes news/talk WOL. In Cleveland Matt Myers is the newimg operations manager for the station group that includes news/talk WERE-AM. Urban One SVP of programming Colby Tyner comments, “These leadership changes reflect the incredible depth of talent within Radio One. It’s exciting to see so many of our team members grow within the company and take on new challenges across markets. By empowering our brightest minds to share fresh ideas and perspectives, we ensure our stations remain dynamic, creative, and deeply connected to the communities we serve.”

Industry News

NAB to Host Next BFoA Media Mixer

The Broadcasters Foundation of America announces that the next Media Mixer will take place at NAB headquarters in Washington DC on Thursday, November 6, from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm and will be hosted by NAB president and CEO Curtis LeGeyt, with special guests Kelly O’Donnellimg of NBC and Hubbard Radio president and general manager Joel Oxley. The Media Mixer series is designed to “celebrate the camaraderie of the broadcasting community and bring to light the charitable mission of the BFOA to provide a lifeline to colleagues in acute need from illness or disaster.” BFoA chair Scott Herman says, “We thank the NAB for providing this impressive event space at their headquarters, and we’re grateful to Curtis, Kelly, and Joel for their support in making this event a success for all attendees. Our Media Mixers bring together junior and senior level broadcast professionals and on-air celebrities, while raising the profile of our mission to help every broadcaster who qualifies for aid.” Registration for the event is required and you can do that here.

Industry News

KMJ-AM/FM, Fresno Helps Raise Funds for Central California Food Bank

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Cumulus Media’s KMJ-AM/FM, Fresno “NewsTalk 580/105.9 KMJ” recently partnered with local agriculture company GAR to present the 12th Annual Feeding Families Fund Drive and raised a record-breaking $534,917 for the Central California Food Bank. KMJ broadcast live from The Market in Fresno on September 19. Over the past 12 years the annual event has raised more than $35 million for the Central California Food Bank. Pictured above at the radiothon are KMJ morning drive personalities Greg Lane (left) and Randy James (right). KMJ VP and market manager Patty Hixson says, “Our listeners continue to overwhelm me with their generosity and graciousness. We are so thankful for them and for the GAR team, who always assist us in taking care of those people in need in our community. Such a blessing to have these incredible partners!”

Industry News

WMAY-AM/FM, Springfield Raises Funds for Local Charity

Woodward Community Media news/talk WMAY-AM/FM, Springfield, Illinois presented a remote radio broadcast on October 3 during morning drive to raise funds for the St. Martin De Porresimg Center and raised more than $47,000 thanks to an anonymous donor who matched every dollar given with an additional $2, effectively tripling the impact of each contribution. AM Springfield host Sam Madonia states, “St. Martin de Porres Center is one of our favorite causes because it helps with a large need in our city. Many residents get the food they need as well as clothing and other items through the work of the center and its volunteer-only staff.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

AURN Exec Honored with NAN Award. The CEO of American Urban Radio Networks parent company A Wonder Media Company, Chesley Maddox-Dorsey, received the President’s Award for her role in amplifying Black voices in media at the National Action Network’s 2025 Triumph Awards on October 6. at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Frederick P. Rose Hall.

iHM Recognizes Five Years of The Black Effect Podcast Network. iHeartMedia and Charlamagne Tha God are celebrating five years of The Black Effect Podcast Network – a podcast publisher dedicated to Black listeners. Charlamagne Tha God says, “Our mission has always been to build a dedicated platform where Black voices can thrive. We have accomplished that mission and more. The past five years have been extraordinary, and the future of the Black Effect excites us. We will keep inspiring, empowering and creating culture and opportunities for all.”

Saga to Present at Noble Capital Markets Conference. Saga Communications executives Christopher S. Forgy, president and CEO, and Samuel D. Bush, EVP, chief financial officer and treasurer, will presenting at today’s Noble Capital Markets’ Emerging Growth Virtual Equity Conference at 4:00 pm ET. The presentation will feature a fireside style Q&A session with Michael Kupinski, director of research and senior media & entertainment analyst at Noble Capital Markets.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (10/7)

The most discussed stories yesterday (10/7) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. 1. Government Shutdown / FAA Shortages-Flight Delays
    2. Pam Bondi Senate Hearing
    3. Maxwell Pardon Speculation
    4. ICE Raids / Guard Troops to Chicago
    5. Gaza Ceasefire Talks
Industry News

WJR, Detroit Promotes Osborne to Director Position

Cumulus Media’s news/talk WJR, Detroit promotes award-winning broadcast journalist Marie Osborne to the newly created position of director of community affairs & news. She previously served as senior news analyst. Cumulus regional VP and Detroit market manager Steveimg Finateri says, “Marie Osborne is one of Michigan’s most respected broadcasters. Her high standards for broadcasting integrity have earned her this important role with WJR, helping us to maintain our brand as Michigan’s most trusted media outlet serving listeners throughout the Great Lakes region.” Osborne comments, “Being able to help our listeners process all that is unfolding in this impactful moment in history is a privilege and being able to do it at WJR is an honor. The commitment to community and news here at WJR runs deep, it is at the heart of all we do and I’m looking forward to carrying on this vital tradition in my new role.”

Industry News

Charlie Kirk Show Soars in Podtrac’s September Ranker

The Top Podcasts ranker from Podtrac based on U.S. unique monthly audience for the month of September saw Salem Podcast Network’s “Charlie Kirk Show” rise 28 places to #6 in theimg aftermath of his slaying in Utah on September 10. The top three podcasts remain in order from the August ranker with NPR’s “NPR News Now” at #1, followed by The New York Times’ “The Daily” at #2 and NPR’s “Up First” at #3. Other talk radio related shows include FOX Audio Network’s “FOX News Hourly Update” rising one place to #4 and DailyWire’s “The Ben Shapiro Show” falling four places to #12. See the complete ranker here.

Industry News

AM/FM and Podcasts Honored for “Super Touchpoints” Effectiveness

The latest blog from Cumulus Media | Westwood One’s Audio Active Group reports on AM/FM and podcasts receiving the “Super Touchpoints” effectiveness honor from marketing effectiveness firm Effie. The blog post that at this year’s Cannes Advertising Festival, Effie examined 19 media and its study showed AM/FM radio and podcasts ranked fourth in achievingimg sales effect within six months. Podcasts and AM/FM radio also performed strongly in long-term brand building with impressive brand effects beyond six months. The story notes that the Effie Awards are based on growth factors such as incremental revenue, profit, market share, new customers, loyalty, and price sensitivity. Brands that win Effie Awards drive impressive revenue, profit, and brand effects. The stronger the Effie performance, the greater the ROI and business results. The key takeaway is that “some media do well with short-term impact but have a harder time creating future demand (contesting, promotions, search, digital display). Other media are adept at brand building and creating future demand but have difficulty with short-term sales effect (creators/influencers, TV, PR, online video/CTV, and print). AM/FM radio and podcasts are unique in their ability to drive both short-term sales as well as long-term brand effects.” See the full blog post here.

Industry News

Wayne Allyn Root Visits Trump at the White House

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Nationally syndicated talk media personality Wayne Allyn Root recently visited the White House and met with President Donald Trump. Root says, “I’ve had the honor of interviewing President Trump on my TV and radio shows 16 times. I’ve also opened for him at many Las Vegas rallies. And I’ve been honored to attend many White House events – including White House Christmas and Hanukkah parties and the Abraham Accords. But this was my first Oval Office visit. What an honor. God bless America. I know my dad – a blue collar Jewish butcher from Brownsville, Brooklyn – is watching down from heaven with pride!” Pictured above are (from l-r): Cindy Root, Wayne Allyn Root, and President Donald Trump.

Industry News

Rob Parker Press Box Dedicated at His Alma Mater

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FOX Sports Radio’s Rob Parker – co-host of “The Odd Couple with Rob Parker & Kelvin Washington,” MLB Network analyst, and founder/editor of MLBbro.com – was honored by his alma mater, Southern Connecticut State University at the school’s homecoming last Saturday (10/4) as the Jess Dow Field press box was officially dedicated in his honor. Parker, a 1986 grad, says, “I’m so grateful to Southern for laying the groundwork for my career. This is where it all began and where I learned to be a reporter. It’s an absolute honor to have my name on Southern’s press box. I hope this will inspire others to excel and do what most think can’t be done.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (10/6)

The most discussed stories yesterday (10/6) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. 1. Government Shutdown / Furloughs
    2. Guard Troops to Chicago / Portland Guard Battle
    3. Hamas Israel Attack Anniversary
    4. SCOTUS Denies Maxwell Appeal Hearing
    5. Mark Sanchez Incident
Industry News

Sean Casey Goes Solo in Mornings at WCBM

WCBM, Baltimore morning drive personality Bruce Elliott is stepping away from the “Theimg Morning Drive with Casey & Elliott” after almost six years co-hosting the program with Sean Casey. WCBM announces that the program is being re-branded as “Casey & Company” and will feature newscaster Maggie Hunter, the “king of all traffic” Chuck Whitaker, sportscaster Gary Stein and executive producer Kristen Haegerich. Elliott originally joined the program as a part-time guest in 2015 before rising to co-host in 2019.

Industry News

Joel Clary Joins KSE Media Ventures

Media pro Joel Clary joins KSE Media Ventures in Denver as SVP and general manager for theimg company’s four stations that includes sports talk KKSE-AM/FM. Clary most recently served with Salem Media Group as regional multimedia sales manager and takes over for Dave Fleck who left the company to start up his own company. Clary comments, “I am incredibly excited to join an organization with such a passionate fan base and an unparalleled portfolio of teams and venues. I look forward to contributing to the continued success and growth of the KSE family.”

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Social Media Checklist for Radio

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imgThese aren’t just bulletin boards. They’re extensions of your station, where listeners expect to be acknowledged and advertisers expect to see results.

Michelle Krasniak’s “Social Media Marketing All-in-One For Dummies,” 6th Edition (Wiley, 2025) really is “9 Books in One.” Haven’t got time for all 739 pages? I’ve boiled-it-down to five fundamentals that tee-up useful brainstorming.

Her core message: stop treating social media as a sideline. It is as important to your brand as what comes out of the transmitter. And it’s sponsorable.

Here are five fundamentals:

Pick your platforms wisely.You don’t need to be everywhere. As our superstar traffic reporter Bob Marbourg used to say when I managed WTOP: “Pick your lane and stay with it.” Figure out where your target listeners already spend time and go-deep there. For most stations that’s Facebook and Instagram, but TikTok and YouTube Shorts are big with younger demos.

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  • Treat it as programming. Every social post is content marketing. That means it needs the same creativity and discipline as an on-air break. Recycle strategically: a morning show prank becomes a 15-second Reel, a newscast becomes “WXXX News Now, Top Stories.”
  • Post consistently. Social media isn’t set-it-and-forget-it. Build an editorial calendar. Balance evergreen content (i.e., music trivia or host Q&As) with timely, trending posts. Post predictably.
  • Measure what matters. Stop obsessing over likes. Engagement — comments, shares, saves, direct messages — is where the action is. Track what kinds of posts spark conversation and what falls flat. Advertisers will also expect hard numbers, so get comfortable with analytics.
  • Bring advertisers along. Clients want more than a schedule of spots. They want campaigns that include social media integration — from sponsored live streams to Instagram Reels with product tie-ins. Package these with on-air buys and show ROI with real data.

Krasniak stresses that “content is everywhere” — the trick is connecting the dots. For stations, that means breaking down silos between the studio, the stream, and the screen. Social feeds aren’t bulletin boards. They’re extensions of the studio, where listeners expect to be acknowledged and advertisers expect to see results.

Bottom line: Social media done right isn’t an add-on; it’s table stakes. If your station isn’t treating it with the same rigor as on-air programming, you’re leaving audience and revenue on the table.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a media consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

Harry Hurley Charity Foundation Hosts 17th Dinner & Silent Auction

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The Harry Hurley Charity Foundation held its 17th annual Charity Dinner & Silent Auction at Resorts Casino Hotel Atlantic City over the weekend and welcomed more that 300 guests to the event that featured guest of honor Republican nominee for governor of New Jersey Jack Ciattarelli. As usual, this annual charity event, hosted by WPG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley, brings out the “Who’s Who” of New Jersey potentates from business and politics including hundreds of New Jersey legislators, county leaders, mayors, council members, and a broad section of business and industry leaders. It raised a record $82,000. Over the past 18 years, The Harry Hurley Charity Foundation has raised more than $2 million. Hurley tells TALKERS that next year’s guest of honor and keynote speaker has already been selected and it will be none other than the legendary Tony Orlando. Pictured above are Ciattarelli (left) and Hurley (right).

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend (10/4-5)

The most discussed stories over the weekend on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. 1. Court Blocks Guard to Portland Order
    2. Government Shutdown / Furloughs
    3. Bad Bunny Controversy
    4. Israel-Hamas Negotiations
    5. Mark Sanchez Incident
Industry News

FCC Chair Agrees to Testify Before Senate Commerce Committee

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr is agreeing to testify before the Senate Commerce Committee about the issues surrounding ABC/Disney’s suspension of Jimmy Kimmel form comments about the death of Charlie Kirk. The date for Carr’s testimony is not setimg but sources tell Reuters that it would likely be sometime after November. Senate Commerce Committee Chair Ted Cruz criticized Carr for comments he made on the Benny Johnson podcast about late night talk host Jimmy Kimmel’s joke that appeared to threaten ABC/Disney and promise FCC action against the company if it didn’t take action on its own. On his Premiere Networks distributed podcast, “The Verdict with Ted Cruz,” Cruz said of Carr’s comments, “I got to say that’s right out of ‘Goodfellas.’ That’s right out of a Mafioso coming into a bar going, ‘Nice bar you have here. It would be a shame if something happened to it.’” Carr recently said that’s not what he meant and stated, “We don’t want to see weaponization of government by any administration against any perspective – and that’s certainly not what we’re doing here.”

Industry News

Chris Michaels to Exit WFMD, Frederick

WFMD, Frederick, Maryland program director and morning drive host Chris Michaels announces via Facebook that he’s leaving the station. He posted, “After two and a half wonderful years as co-host of the ‘Morning News Express’ on Free Talk 930 WFMD and as programimg director, I have submitted my notice. I’m grateful to Connoisseur Media, a fantastic company that, at the time, owned WFMD, and to Frank Mitchell, who hired me and trained me, for the opportunity to be part of this legendary station, and to my close friend and mentor, Bob Miller. My passion for radio is strong, and I look forward to returning to the airwaves as soon as my time at WFMD comes to an end. I love the radio industry. Who knows where this journey will take me next, but I hope it will still be in this area. You will hear me on the air again one day, because my radio career is NOT over. I still have a month here, and I am looking forward to finishing my time here. Primarily working with the fantastic team that I get to work with every day.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

SalemNOW Documentary Series Launches. Salem Media Group says that its SalemNOW conservative and Christian streaming service is now streaming “Prescription to Kill,” a true crime docuseries hosted by actor and filmmaker Kevin Sorbo. Salem says the series originated from director Andrew Thibault’s two-year legal battle with the Food and Drug Administration under the Freedom of Information Act that uncovered hundreds of previously withheld reports it says link prescription medications to acts of homicide, including multiple school shootings.

Audacy Hosts Phillies Party. Audacy’s sports talk WIP, Philadelphia – flagship of the MLB’s Phillies – is hosting the second annual Red October Rally today (10/3) from Stateside Live! in celebration of the Phillies’ National League Division Series appearance. WIP is hosting a live broadcast from the team’s postseason rally from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

iHeartMedia Presents Wine on the River Event. iHeartMedia Louisville is producing the sixth annual Wine on the River event on October 11 at The Belvedere in Downtown Louisville. The company’s Louisville stations – including news/talk WHAS – are promoting the event that will benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Kentuckiana.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (September 29 – October 3, 2025)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (9/29-10/3) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

Stories

  1. 1. Government Shutdown / Furloughs
    2. The Economy / BLS Data
    3. ICE Raids / Guard Troops to Memphis & Portland
    4. Hegseth & Trump Address Military Brass
    5. Deadly Michigan Church Attack
    6. SCOTUS Lisa Cook Ruling
    7. Comey Indictment
    8. Gaza Flotilla Intercepted
    9. LaGuardia Planes Collision
    10.Jane Goodall Dies

People

  1. 1. Donald Trump
  2. 2. Russell Vought
  3. 3. Chuck Schumer / Hakeem Jeffries
  4. 4. Mike Johnson
  5. 5. Pete Hegseth
  6. 6. Thomas Sanford
  7. 7. Lisa Cook
  8. 8. James Comey
  9. 9. Greta Thunberg
  10. 10.Jane Goodall

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

Industry News

“Hello Future” Launches on iHeartPodcasts Network

Premiere Networks and veteran journalist and mtf.tv founder Kevin Cirilli partner for a new podcast titled, “Hello Future with Kevin Cirilli,” to be featured on the iHeartPodcasts platform. “Hello Future” is described as “a daily podcast where tomorrow’s biggest questions come alive.img With topics ranging from Mars and UFOs to flying cars and ‘civilization starter kits,’ each episode blends science, technology, and imagination with the real choices shaping our world.” For example, on this week’s program Cirilli welcomes Harvard astrophysicist Dr. Avi Loeb for a conversation about comet 3I/ATLAS, alien tech, and the future of space exploration. He also chats with Rich Cooper, vice president of strategic communication and outreach for Space Foundation, about America’s $1 trillion space economy and why investing in space isn’t just about exploration – it’s about building America’s economic future. Premiere Networks president Julie Talbott states, “We’re thrilled to welcome ‘Hello Future’ to the network. With years of experience as a journalist covering global affairs, technology and policy, Kevin has the unique ability to connect the dots between science and the future for listeners who crave bold ideas and fresh perspectives on what’s ahead.”

Industry News

“Family Matters” and “Next Role” Join Cumulus Podcast Network

Cumulus Media’s Westwood One today announces two additions to the Cumulus Podcast Network. The “Family Matters” podcast is hosted by CJ Pearson and “tackles the most pressing social, cultural, and political issues in America as told from a perspective rarely heard in podcasting: conservative, culturally aware, and authentically Black.” Pearson says, “Joining the Cumulus Podcast Network is a huge moment for ‘Family Matters.’ We’re bringingimg unapologetically conservative, culturally aware, and authentically Black voices to the forefront – voices that have been ignored for far too long. This show is about faith, family, freedom, and fearless truth-telling. I’m proud to be part of a network that values bold ideas and real conversations, and I can’t wait to shake things up.” Separately, Cumulus announces that “The Next Role with Vernon Davis” also joins the Cumulus Podcast Network. Former NFL star and Super Bowl champion turned actor and producer Vernon Davis’ podcast focuses on career transition and reinvention. Davis says, “The Next Role is more than a podcast – it’s a movement. I created this show to highlight the courage it takes to reinvent yourself, especially after a career in the spotlight. Partnering with the Cumulus Podcast Network gives me the platform to amplify these powerful stories and connect with listeners who are navigating their own transitions. I’m excited to bring these conversations to life and inspire others to embrace their next chapter.” 

Industry News

RTDNA: Improving Trust in News Among Younger Consumers

Trust in the news and journalism is an issue that all news platforms are struggling with during this ear of increasing mis- and disinformation. The Radio Television Digital News Association notes that this is especially true with younger news consumers. Working with research andimg solutions organization Magid, the RTDNA examines trust in journalism among younger news consumers in 2025. It published the findings earlier this summer. Now, news pros can watch a recording of the webinar that the two organizations conducted to walk journalists through the findings and help them understand how they can improve trust among the next generation of news consumers. Magid VP Pat Maday presents the webinar you can view here.

Industry News

NAB Crystal Radio Awards Entry Window Open

The National Association of Broadcasters is now accepting entries for the 40th annual NAB Crystal Radio Awards that honor outstanding community service efforts by radio stations fromimg the past year (October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025). A panel of judges representing the broadcast industry and community service organizations will review applications and select 50 finalists and 10 winners. Stations must submit an online entry through My NAB detailing their community service efforts from the past year. The deadline for entry submissions is October 31. Finalists will be announced in February.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Townsquare Media Announces Q3 Financial Results. Townsquare will release third quarter 2025 financial results before the market opens on Monday, November 10 and will hold a conference call at 8:00 am ET on that day. The company will also announce its participation in an upcoming investor conference.

Saga Communications Appoints New Board Member. Saga announces the increase of its number of board members to eight and the appointment of Gregg Sutherland to its board of directors. Sutherland was previously a senior partner at Ernst & Young where he served as the strategy consulting practice leader, Global and Americas.

Industry News

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

The most discussed stories yesterday (10/1) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. 1. Government Shutdown
    2. The Economy / BLS Data
    3. SCOTUS Lisa Cook Ruling
    4. ICE Raids / Guard Troops to Portland
    5. Israel Orders Palestinians from Gaza
Industry News

Radio CEOs Applaud FCC’s Ownership Rules Review

The Federal Communications Commission is announcing a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to begin its 2022 Quadrennial Review of the broadcast ownership rules. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has indicated that he is interested in relaxing the current ownership rules for broadcastersimg and radio industry CEOs are pleased with the probability that they will be loosened. Cumulus Media president and CEO Mary G. Berner states, “We’re encouraged that Chairman Carr and the FCC are advancing the 2022 Quadrennial Review. Quickly modernizing the radio ownership rules is essential for listeners who rely on local radio every day. With updated imgrules, companies like ours can invest more locally, diversify our offerings, and compete effectively in today’s rapidly evolving audio landscape. We look forward to working with the Commission to make these updates.” Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley comments, “We would like to thank Chairman Carr for moving forward with the quadrennial review on this critical endeavor. This is a defining moment for our industry to ensure that local radio can continue to fulfill its essential public service mission for decades to come. We look forward to working with the Commission to implement common-sense reforms that will allow broadcasters to compete fairly and keep serving the local audiences who rely on us every day.”

Industry News

Long Joins iHeartMedia as Region President for Dallas

iHeartMedia announces that Chris Long has been appointed region president for Dallas. Long most recently served as chief revenue officer for Gemini XIII. iHeartMedia division presidentimg Eddie Martiny states, “I am excited to have Chris lead our talented Dallas team. Over the past 20 years, I’ve seen him inspire and drive growth across some of the most well-respected companies in our industry. His diverse background and leadership, makes him the perfect person to lead the Dallas market to the next level.”

Industry News

Valkoun Named VP of Sales for iHeartMedia Milwaukee

iHeartMedia names Colleen Valkoun vice president of sales for its Milwaukee station group thatimg includes news/talk WISN. Valkoun was most recently president and general manager for Milwaukee Radio Alliance, which recently divested itself of its radio properties in the market. Milwaukee market president Dan Lenz says, “Colleen is a proven leader with a track record of success in this market. Her expertise, energy and passion for Milwaukee and the business community make her the perfect fit for this role. We’re thrilled to have her back at iHeartMedia Milwaukee.”

Industry News

Texas Town Chamber Names KLVI Host “Man of the Year”

Beaumont, Texas talk radio host Al Caldwell is named the 2025 Man of the Year by The Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce. Caldwell is the morning drive host on iHeartMedia’s KLVI, Beaumont “News Talk 560.” iHeartMedia says that Caldwell has been a cornerstone ofimg Beaumont region for over five decades known for his authenticity, passion, and a deep love for Beaumont and its people. Caldwell is now 89 yet he continues to wake up at 4:00 am to entertain and inform his long standing and loyal fan base. Chamber president Amy Lavoi says, “Al Caldwell is more than just a radio personality – he’s the voice of our community. Through decades of broadcasting and public service, Al has uplifted this city with his humor, insight, and compassion. We are honored to recognize him as our 2025 Man of the Year.” Caldwell comments, “This community has given me so much over the years and being recognized by the Chamber as ‘Man of the Year’ is truly humbling. I love telling stories, sharing laughs, connecting with listeners, and waking up before the sun to be part of their day.”  The award will be presented at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting on October 7 at the Beaumont Civic Center.

Industry News

Urban One: Study Shows Importance of Black Cultural Influence

Urban One commissioned a study titled, “Influence to Impact: Black Culture’s Role in Brand Growth,” that the company says quantifies “just how deep that influence runs and demonstrates that brands failing to authentically engage with Black consumers risk missing out on exponential opportunities for growth in relevance, trust, and revenue.” Urban One EVP, head of brandedimg entertainment & integrated marketing Jeff Meza says, “Cultural ROI is the vehicle for us at Urban One to further our mission to help educate the industry and brand partners alike on the importance that intentions must be rooted in strategy, and this new economy requires development of total market plans that are inclusive and representative of authentic experiences.” Urban One VP, television and digital research Audrey Cochran adds, “I am incredibly proud of the work we’ve done to quantify the undeniable impact that Black consumers have on U.S. culture. This study not only demonstrates their impact and influence on broader consumer behavior but also underscores the value of authentically connecting with this segment – and the business risks of failing to do so.” See more about the study here.