The escalation of violence in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict and the danger of it leading to World War III was again the most talked about story. The presidential race, various polls, and anticipation for the VP debate; the Russia-Ukraine war; the economy; the migrant crisis, and the aftermath of Hurricane Helene were also among the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday (9/24), according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
As listener attention and advertising dollars continue to go-digital, stations now sell more than spots, to monetize advertiser demand that will otherwise be satisfied by other vendors. With you or without you, local retailers need/want to be seen.
Many local businesses are already on YouTube. And whether their video is polished or embarrassingly amateurish, they crave traffic. Stacks of research demonstrate that NO other companion medium drives online traffic better than radio. We train station reps to ask prospects with online assets: “Unless we tell our listeners, how will they know it’s there?” And if your station web site is content-rich and properly promoted, your traffic runs rings around theirs.
Low-hanging fruit: Local service retailers, explaining. Example: A bicycle shop demonstrates how to change a flat tire. Doing so identifies the business as helpful and helps sell spare tires and patch kits. One video I saw so thoroughly explained the process that it left me thinking I’d let them do it! 😉
How-to-do-something videos are among YouTube’s most-watched. Second-only to entertaining videos. Tips, based on what’s up at stations I work with, and sources cited:
• Keep ‘em short, based on viewing data which demonstrates that people stop watching after two minutes, if they watch that long (the first five seconds is critical). And so, you can sell the advertiser a series of videos.
• From YouTube Marketing by QuickStudy.com: Create videos that solve [the advertiser’s] customers’ problems. Each video should address one concern, narrowly focused on one problem end users face and how to overcome it. Doing a series invites viewers back to see that series of episodes.
• Depict advertisers demonstrating their expertise, so consumers are confident that your client is the right choice; and to personalize the business.
• Use keywords that the viewers you want would likely search, in your self-explanatory title (“How to change a flat bicycle tire”) and in the video’s Description and Tags.
• Early in your YouTube Description copy, include a link to more information, i.e., “Step-by-step instructions: example.com/flat.pdf”
• Research from Kinetic: More than half of viewers watch without sound. So, consider how you can get your message across without it.
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
FCC Approves Audacy’s Post-Bankruptcy Vote In Split Vote. According to a report this morning (9/30) by Adam Jacobson in Radio+Television Business Report, the FCC, as expected, has approved of Audacy Inc.’s plan to emerge from debtor-in-possession status – a move that makes Soros Fund Management the controlling interest holder in the audio content creation and distribution company founded by the Field family. While the release of the Commission’s Memorandum Opinion and Order came early Monday, it was adopted in a divisive 3-2 vote on September 18, with Republicans Brendan Carr and Nate Simington vociferously disapproving the deal over Soros’ ties to liberal and Democratic causes. Timing of the Memorandum Opinion and Order’s release comes as Audacy’s Debtor-in-Possession Forbearance Agreement was scheduled to expire today, after an extension granted by Houston-based U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Christopher Lopez in mid-August. Lopez approved all of the necessary paperwork to allow Audacy Inc. to emerge from Chapter 11 bankruptcy on February 20.
Dave Krieger Joins Forces with LibertyNewsRadio.com. Award-winning investigative journalist, author, reporter, and radio commentator Dave Krieger has joined Sam Bushman and the broadcast team on LibertyNewsRadio.com, as well as streaming live on the Galaxy 19 Satellite network GlobalStar with The Krieger Files. The show airs from 8:00 am to 9:00 am CT Monday through Friday on both LibertyNewsRadio.com and on Galaxy 19 and then re-broadcasts at 11:00 am CT on Galaxy 19 and re-broadcasts again at 5:00 pm CT on Krieger’s new internet broadcast network, Squirrel Radio (sqrradio.com), without news breaks. The Squirrel also carries Truth Seekers, Liberty Round Table and The Big Mig’s radio re-broadcasts. Krieger’s focus centers around what affects government behaviors have on the nation’s economy, legal system, and Constitutional rights. Krieger is available for syndication, commentary, and interviews at: TheKriegerFiles.com.
SummitMedia Names Mike Hogan to Lead Omaha Market. SummitMedia, LLC has announced Mike Hogan as the new president and GM to oversee operations in the Omaha, Nebraska cluster. Hogan brings more than 25 years’ experience in management, sales, and marketing which, according to the company, positions him to achieve results for Summit’s Omaha team and regional clients. Most recently, he oversaw clusters in Sioux City, Iowa, and Ogallala, Nebraska. He served there for more than a decade, developing key partnerships with clients, growing revenue, building relationships within the business community, and executing plans to drive sales growth. “We’re excited to have an executive of Mike’s caliber running our Omaha cluster,” said Summit chairman and CEO Carl Parmer. He brings incredible experience, expertise, and leadership to our team.”
Steve Jones and Mike McVay Guest on New Episodes of Benztown Podcast. 
Benztown, a global leader in radio imaging, voiceovers, programming, podcasting, and jingles, has released two new episodes of “Chachi Loves Everybody,” an original podcast series hosted by its president Dave “Chachi” Denes. The episodes feature Chachi’s special guests Steve Jones, president and CEO, Skyview Networks, and Mike McVay, president, McVay Media Consulting. Jones and McVay will be among those honored this fall as Giants of Broadcasting by the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation at the 2024 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony on November 12th at Gotham Hall in New York City. To listen to the new “Chachi Loves Everybody” podcast episodes, please click here.
PodcastOne Debuts “Beat It Out” Podcast from Adam Carolla with Co-Host Jay Mohr Exclusively on Adam Carolla Show Substack. 
PodcastOne, a leading podcast platform and a subsidiary of LiveOne, announces the launch of “Beat It Out,” a podcast from Podcasting Hall of Fame member Adam Carolla exclusively on the Adam Carolla Show Substack featuring Season One co-host, comedian Jay Mohr. The addition of “Beat It Out” to the network’s roster of podcast programming further strengthens the 15 years long relationship between PodcastOne and Carolla who has been with the network since its inception in 2009. Paid subscribers to the Adam Carolla Substack will have full access to “Beat It Out,” as well as ad free and video content for all new episodes of “The Adam Carolla Show,” “Adam and Drew,” and “Carolla Classics.” Additionally, subscribers will receive an exclusive newsletter, access to archival content and be the first to experience planned live recording sessions and live chats. “Beat It Out” marks a podcasting return for Mohr who previously hosted the long running and fan favorite podcast “Mohr Stories” and “Mohr Sports” from Los Angeles through his Fake Mustache Studios. PodcastOne president Kit Gray tells TALKERS, “Podcasting remains the most exciting and fastest growing medium in entertainment, and we’re always thrilled when we can exhibit content in new ways and across new channels reaching fans like never before. Our use of Substack allows PodcastOne and Adam Carolla to uniquely package exclusive content to the most passionate of podcast listeners.” Adam Carolla’s impact on the medium of podcasting is unmatched. Across his numerous podcasts he has received over 700 million downloads to date and is often credited as one of the founding hosts in podcasting.
Vikings and iHeartMedia Sign Seven-Year Broadcast Extension. The Minnesota Vikings and iHeartMedia Minneapolis’s KFAN Sports Radio FM 100.3 and Twin Cities News Talk 1130 have announced a seven-year extension renewing both stations’ broadcast rights of Vikings preseason, regular season, and postseason games. “We are delighted to continue our long-term partnership with the Minnesota Vikings,” says Greg Alexander, market president, iHeart Minneapolis. “Next season will mark our 25th anniversary together. Our relationship has been fantastic over the years, and as we keep collaborating, we will uncover new opportunities to create outstanding experiences for our listeners.”
The presidential race, polls, and “dirt” constituted the week’s #1 story in the talk media. It was followed by the escalation of Middle East violence at #2. The economy placed #3. #4 was the federal criminal indictment of NYC Mayor Eric Adams. #5 was the migrant crisis and #6 was the Russia-Ukraine war. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed in news/talk media during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.
Kevin Washington Rises to Operations Manager Alpha Media-Dayton. 
Effective 10/1, Kevin Washington has been named operations manager for Alpha Media’s five Dayton, OH stations (WDHT-FM, WROU-FM, WGTZ-FM, WCLI-FM and sports talk, WING-AM). Washington has 20+ years of experience with Alpha Dayton and most recently held the position of APD/promotions director. Alpha Media’s SVP/market manager Brett Beshore tells TALKERS, “I’m thrilled to be promoting Kevin into this pivotal role with Alpha Dayton. He’s consistently demonstrated strong commitment to the organization’s values and goals, delivering exceptional results with everything he’s undertaken. There’s no one more deserving. He’s the absolute best choice to lead our highly[1]talented team with our heritage brands.” Washington adds, “I’m excited to take on this new role with Alpha Media. We have great stations in the market and greater people inside the building. I’m looking forward to this next chapter.”
Bob Longo to Retire as VP/GM of Cox Media Group TV – Jacksonville. 
After 35 years of service and leadership in local broadcasting, Bob Longo is retiring as VP/GM of Cox Media Group (CMG) TV – Jacksonville (WJAX-TV and Hoffman Communication’s WFOX-TV), effective Dec. 31. Longo’s career has deep roots in journalism. He started in radio as a reporter, anchor, news director, and talk host before moving to TV as a reporter and anchor, executive producer, and news director. He led newsrooms in Binghamton, Buffalo, Hartford, Pittsburgh, Orlando, and Jacksonville. He joined CMG in 2014 and was promoted to VP/GM in 2017. “Bob has been successful at every stop because he’s a personable and engaged leader with an unwavering commitment to journalistic excellence and financial performance,” said Dan York, CMG’s president/CEO. “He’s consistently brought passion to serving his local communities and has been an ardent advocate for the value of local news and investigative journalism. While we’re happy for him, we’re going to miss Bob’s optimism and leadership.”
The escalation of violence in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict and the danger of it leading to World War III was again the most talked about story. The presidential race and various polls; the Russia-Ukraine war; the federal criminal indictment of NYC Mayor Eric Adams; the Mark Robinson flap; the economy; the migrant issue, and the intensification of hurricane Helene were also among the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday (9/24), according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Audacy Extends Broadcast Partnership with Penn State Football and Basketball. Audacy and Penn State University have extended their longtime broadcast partnership. As part of the multi-platform partnership, Talk Radio 1210 WPHT, Philadelphia will continue to serve as the flagship home for all Penn State football and men’s basketball play-by-play broadcasts. “Penn State has been a longtime valued partner of Audacy Philadelphia and Talk Radio 1210 WPHT, and we are delighted to continue this long-standing relationship,” David Yadgaroff, SVP/market manager, Audacy Philadelphia, tells TALKERS. “Philadelphia is home to many Penn State sports fans, and we are proud that Talk Radio 1210 WPHT will provide tremendous reach for fans and alums over the air, on their smart speakers, or the free Audacy app.”
FOX News Media to Simulcast CBS’ Vice Presidential Debate. In addition to simulcasting the event, FOX News Media will present live programming surrounding the CBS vice presidential debate between candidates Sen. JD Vance and Gov. Tim Walz on Tuesday, October 1st in New York City. Special programming will be 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.
iHeartMedia Joins Forces with Radio Ambulante Studios. 
The podcast publishing arm of iHeartMedia and Radio Ambulante Studios (RAS), a pioneering Spanish-language podcast production company that tells the stories of Latin America and Latino communities around the world, announced a deal that will bring RAS and its full slate of shows to iHeart’s My Cultura Podcast Network. As part of the deal, Radio Ambulante Studios’ flagship, award-winning podcast “Radio Ambulante” along with its groundbreaking weekly news show “El Hilo” and its anthology docuseries “Central” will now be distributed by iHeartPodcasts as part of My Cultura, iHeartMedia’s podcast network dedicated to elevating Latinx voices and stories. Under the new partnership, the two companies will also develop and co-produce a minimum of two new shows over the next two years.
The escalation of violence in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict and the danger of it leading to World War III was again the most talked about story. The presidential race, the Mark Robinson flap; the economy including the price of eggs; the Russia-Ukraine war, the migrant issue, and tropical storm Helene were also among the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday (9/24), according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
The Superior Court of Delaware ruled yesterday (9/23) that Smartmatic will not be eligible for punitive damages in its defamation case against Newsmax. This is a major ruling in favor of Newsmax.
The Court ruled that since Newsmax had never engaged in express malice – meaning it never intended to harm Smartmatic – the voting company could not claim punitive damages. Yesterday’s ruling means that to recover any damages Smartmatic will have to prove to a jury that Newsmax’s coverage caused Smartmatic actual losses. Sources at Newsmax tell TALKERS, “Newsmax’s reporting did not cause Smartmatic damages and after extensive discovery Smartmatic has offered no evidence of such claimed damages.” According to Newsmax, the multimedia platform covered both sides of the dispute in the aftermath of the 2020 election and that the Smartmatic suit against Newsmax “threatens freedom of speech and freedom of press.”
Remote News Service Continues Growth. 
Remote News Service (RNS), a boutique news network providing hyper local, and custom news and traffic remotely, has added four new affiliates. These include station clusters in Wisconsin in both Prairie du Chien and Viroqua, and in Michigan two more markets, Soo and Sault Ste. Marie. Gabe Buch, OM/PD at Robinson Media’s WQPC, Prairie du Chien tells TALKERS, “Remote News has a been a life saver! Very easy to work with and they went the extra step to make our news local. The transition to Remote News was very easy and the anchor we chose is easy to work with and sounds great.” Michael SanAngelo, OM for Sovereign Communications adds, “Our company is on the Canadian border, and we’ve struggled for years to find the right person to collect, write and deliver solid local and regional news on our seven-radio station group. In just two weeks with Remote News Service, our news content has been night and day better and exactly what we have always wanted.” RNS owner Lesley Lotto tells TALKERS, “I’m floored once again at the tremendous growth! 54% this year so far. But this is not about me, it’s our amazing team who continues to attract new clients due to their dedication and hard work. I’m beyond proud.” To learn more about RNS, click here.
The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Podcast Network Launches “Normally” Podcast. 
Premiere Networks announces the addition of “Normally” hosted by Karol Markowicz and Mary Katharine Ham to The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Podcast Network, effective today (9/24). Markowicz is a New York Post and FOX News columnist, author, and host of “The Karol Markowicz Show” podcast. 
Ham is a prominent journalist, FOX News contributor, speaker, author, and co-host of the news podcast “Getting Hammered.” The “Normally” podcast will feature Markowicz and Ham as they discuss the latest happenings in news, politics, and pop culture from the perspective of two “normal moms.” 
The duo will help listeners navigate the headlines that matter most to American families and understand how they affect them. Known for being funny and a bit irreverent, yet serious and thoughtful about important issues, Markowicz and Ham have one purpose in mind: to keep the audience informed without wearing them out.
Salem Radio Network and the Salem News Channel Will Simulcast CBS News VP Debate. Beginning at 9:00 pm ET on Tuesday (10/1), Salem will simulcast the 90-minute debate between U.S. Sen. JD Vance and Gov. Tim Walz that will be moderated by “CBS Evening News” anchor Norah O’Donnell and Margaret Brennan, host of “Face the Nation.” Immediately prior to the simulcast, SRN and SNC will broadcast a two-hour Salem “Pre-Debate Special” beginning at 7:00 pm ET. Salem’s Larry Elder will host the program and will be joined by SRN’s Mike Gallagher, Dr. Sebastion Gorka, Dennis Prager, and Tony Perkins. Phil Boyce, SVP for Spoken Word at Salem Media Group, tells TALKERS, “Who better to host our Pre-Debate coverage than Larry Elder who ran for Governor of California and then for President. He’s been in that chair before, so he knows what to say. Stations who sign up for coverage are in for a treat!” Interested stations in the East Coast and Central regions can contact Jim Bligh at jbligh@srnradio.com or 212-419-4663. On the West Coast or in the Midwest region (North Dakota to Texas) contact Kelli DeShan at kdeshan@srnradio.com or 972-707-6882.
The escalation of violence in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict was yesterday’s most talked about story. The presidential race, world leaders (including President Joe Biden) speaking at the UNGA, the economy, the Russia-Ukraine war, the migrant issue, and tropical storm Helene were also among the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
The National Association of Broadcasters chief legal officer and executive vice president, legal and regulatory affairs, Rick Kaplan has posted a blog protesting the FCC’s proposed rule requiring disclaimers on political ads that use AI. Here’s a key excerpt:
“The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is considering new rules that would require broadcasters to insert a disclaimer on political ads that use AI in any form. Unfortunately, due to the FCC’s limited regulatory authority, this rule risks doing more harm than good. While the intent of the rule is to improve transparency, it instead risks confusing audiences while driving political ads away from trusted local stations and onto social media and other digital platforms, where misinformation runs rampant.”
To read the entire post, please click here.
The presidential race and polls constituted the week’s #1 story in the talk media. It was followed by the migrant crisis at #2 with ongoing conversation about the Springfield, OH controversy. Escalating Middle East tensions took the #3 spot. #4 was the economy, inflation, and interest rates. #5 was the Russia-Ukraine war. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed in news/talk media during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.
AM for Every Vehicle Act Approved by House Energy and Commerce Committee. The House Energy and Commerce Committee approved the pending bill yesterday (9/19) requiring new cars to have AM radios in their dashboards. The bill was passed by the committee on a roll-call vote of 45-2 and now heads to the full House for final approval. Titled the AM for Every Vehicle Act, the bill, if passed, would direct the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to require automakers to maintain AM broadcast radio in their vehicles “without a separate or additional payment, fee, or surcharge.” Supporters of the bill say that AM radio serves the public interest and safety during natural disasters and other events requiring emergency broadcasting information – not to mention a wide variety of programming genres not readily available on other platforms in addition to regions of the country not fully served by digital media.
SEATTLE TIMES: Major Changes Could Be Coming to the Seattle Mariners Broadcasting Booth this Off Season. According to an article in the Seattle Times by reporter Adam Jude, longtime Mariners play-by-play voice Dave Sims is thought to be a finalist for the New York Yankees radio broadcasting vacancy, a position that opened up when John Sterling abruptly retired in April. Sims, 71, has been one of the Mariners’ primary television voices since 2007, and his iconic calls — from “Hey now!” to Giddy up, baby!” — have endeared him to many fans. A Philadelphia native, Sims interviewed with the Yankees earlier this summer. The Yankees are not expected to announce a hire until after the season. “It’s just nice to be considered,” Sims said. To read the entire article, please click here.
The Springfield, OH migrant crisis remains in the top position among stories discussed in the talk media yesterday (9/17). That was followed closely by controversy and concerns over the Israel-Hamas war and the Hezbollah pager/walkie-talkie explosions. The presidential race, the Russia-Ukraine war and the economy-inflation were also among the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Longtime New York radio market executive Jerry Crowley has announced that he will be retiring at the end of 2024. 
Crowley has had a long and illustrious career in New York talk radio. He has served as vice president/general manager of the Salem Media Group New York – WNYM 970 AM The Answer and WMCA 570 AM The Mission – since 2013. Prior to that, he held key management positions for 18 years as sales manager and VP/GM at WOR, New York. In an internal memo issued to Salem management and corporate staff (9/17), company senior VP East region Jeff Reisman states, “Jerry has been an integral part of our team since 2013, leading both WMCA and WNYM with visionary guidance and unwavering dedication. His remarkable leadership and unique skills have strengthened Salem’s presence in the New York market. Throughout his tenure, Jerry has consistently demonstrated an exceptional ability to blend his gifts and expertise, fostering a positive impact on our NY staff, our [WMCA] ministry partners, and our local advertising clients. His commitment to excellence and his innovative approach has set a high standard for all of us.” Reisman concludes, “There is only one Jerry Crowley, and we are deeply grateful for his 11 years of hard work and dedication. While we will certainly miss his presence and leadership, we wish him all the best as he embarks on this new chapter of his life.”
WGN, Chicago Names Charlie Roumeliotis as Studio Host of Blackhawks Pre- and Postgame Shows. WGN Radio today named Charlie Roumeliotis as the studio host of Chicago Blackhawks pre- and postgame shows for the upcoming 2024-25 hockey season. Roumeliotis will also serve as the host of WGN’s weekly “Blackhawks Live” show. Long-time broadcast duo John Wiedeman and Troy Murray continue in their roles calling Blackhawks games on WGN Radio. Roumeliotis is extremely familiar with hockey and with the Blackhawks, having worked most recently as Blackhawks Insider for NBC Sports Chicago, where he delivered exclusive coverage of the team through articles, video content, podcast analysis, and TV appearances from 2019 through 2024. He also served as a Chicago Blackhawks correspondent for the NHL. Roumeliotis assumes the role previously held by Joe Brand who was recently named the radio play-by-play broadcaster for the Pittsburgh Penguins.
CEO Christopher Ruddy Offers TALKERS Readers the Opportunity to Become Co-owners of Newsmax! The CEO of Newsmax, Inc. tells TALKERS readers and professional members of the broadcasting industry, “You can join and be part of our success! You can even buy shares today in Newsmax’s pre-IPO Preferred Share offering and become a co-owner of Newsmax!” Ruddy continues with the following statement and information:
Newsmax just made major news again when we officially filed with the SEC seeking to go public. And the ratings for Newsmax in Q3 2024 continue to be strong:
• Newsmax viewership is up 25% across key demos
• Newsmax remains a top 10 cable channel, according to Nielsen
• N2, our streaming channel, is up 30% in viewers
• Newsmax.com is up 54% in online viewers
And Newsmax is #1 in Facebook social media interactions per follower!
As we wait for SEC approval on our public offering, you can buy early Preferred Shares now, if eligible. These special shares come with benefits: First, you get a 7% dividend. Second, these shares will trade soon after a public offering is approved at a 25% discount to the IPO share price. This locks in your value early.
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The Springfield, OH migrant crisis moved back into the top position among stories discussed in the talk media yesterday (9/17). That was followed closely by problems facing the Secret Service in the wake of the second assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump’s life as well as finger pointing casting blame. The Israel-Hamas war and the Hezbollah pager explosions; the Russia-Ukraine war; and the economy-inflation were also among the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Written in 1787, signed on September 17, 1787, ratified in 1788, and in operation since 1789, the United States Constitution is the world’s longest surviving written charter of government. Today is the anniversary of that initial signing. After spending all summer crafting the original seven articles of the historic document, an assemblage of the nation’s founding fathers in Philadelphia at the Constitutional Convention, under the leadership of George Washington, created what would prove to be the ideological and legal backbone of the United States of America. The 39 remarkable individuals who put their signatures to the document included such icons as Benjamin Franklin, Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and Gouverneur Morris.
The document opens with its iconic preamble:
We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
In noting this historic milestone, TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, “Although the Bill of Rights wasn’t ratified until December 15, 1791 – which, of course, includes the all-important First Amendment – the anniversary of the signing of the Constitution should not go unacknowledged by practitioners of talk media, especially during this tense time of political strife and turmoil. Honoring and analyzing the tenets of this precious document is the very foundation of this vital medium. Constitution Day provides an opportunity to promote understanding and clarity when most needed.”
Elder and Kennedy attend Carlson Event in Milwaukee. Salem Radio Network talk host Larry Elder (pictured above center) joined conservative icon Tucker Carlson (l) and Robert F. Kennedy, Jr yesterday evening (9/16) as the commentator’s “Tucker Carlson LIVE” national tour stopped at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. Over 6,000 attendees heard discussion of issues ranging from Sunday’s second assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump to immigration and even the federal government’s response to COVID-19 including whether Trump bears any culpability for vaccines produced during Operation Warp Speed. Elder returns to his nationally syndicated SRN talk show this evening (9/17), which will feature highlights of a Donald Trump “town hall” in Flint Michigan, being moderated by Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders. That event – which begins tonight at 7:00 pm ET – will also be distributed live on the Salem Radio Network longform news channel to affiliates.
WJCT Public Media Appoints Dr. Stephanie Murray as Director of Education. WJCT Public Media, Jacksonville, FL today announced the appointment of Dr. Stephanie Murray as the organization’s director of education. 
In her new role, Murray will lead WJCT’s early childhood education team, overseeing an expanded program of family engagement workshops at six early learning centers and three Head Start sites throughout the academic year. She also manages long-standing initiatives such as the annual children’s writers contest, the Jax PBS KIDS Club, WJCT’s Parenting Minutes, and more. Murray will also manage WJCT Public Media’s relationships with local and national partners and stakeholders, develop new programs and services, and serve as an early childhood education resource for the Northeast Florida community – all with the goal of expanding WJCT Public Media’s impact in this essential service area. Murray has an extensive background in the field and has worked with WJCT Public Media as a consultant over the past two years – while also consulting for the WNET Group in New York, the Fred Rogers Company, and public media stations throughout Florida.
Wayne Allyn Root Prays for Trump. Colorful commentator Wayne Allyn Root, host of a nationally syndicated radio show on Talk Media Network (TMN) and two national TV shows on Real America’s Voice TV, was the opening speaker for former President Donald Trump at his Las Vegas rally on Friday (9/13)… and then landed his 16th interview with Trump on Saturday in his suite at Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. 
At a time when interviews with the former president are a common talk media occurrence, Root tells TALKERS the interview was significant for several reasons. “First, while I’ve done 16 interviews with President Trump (even he admits this might be the all-time media record), he was always my guest on the phone… this was my first exclusive, face-to-face, one-on-one TV interview. Second, this might have been the last interview he did before Sunday’s assassination attempt. I’m so proud I opened and closed the interview by telling him, ‘My fans and I pray for you every day. We appreciate everything you’ve done for us and this country. Thank you and God bless you.’ And third, when President Trump said a certain slide about illegal immigration saved his life… I corrected him and said, ‘God saved your life. And he continues to protect you – because I believe you are the chosen one – chosen by God to save this country, and economy, and secure this border, and make America great again.’” Root concludes, “I’m so proud I said all of that considering what happened the next day that could have changed the future of this country. He needed to know how much he is loved and appreciated by the American people.”
News Talk 1110/99.3 WBT, Charlotte, is looking for the next great multimedia journalist to join the WBT news team as a full-time news reporter. If you’re a compelling storyteller on air and on the page, have a sense for where the next breaking story might originate, and understand that there is a critical difference between news reporting and simple dictation, WBT would love to hear from you. What will set you apart? Journalistic objectivity, the desire to enterprise and produce investigative reports, the flexibility to cover breaking news whenever it happens and, most importantly, to be a great teammate and collaborator, working with the entire WBTeam of hosts, anchors, reporters, and producers for the benefit of the Charlotte listeners. If this sounds like you, please upload your resume, air checks and writing samples on this page.
The second attempt on former President Donald Trump’s life over the weekend remained the most talked about story in talk media yesterday (9/16). The Israel-Hamas war and rising Middle East tensions; the Russia-Ukraine war; the migrant crisis; and situation in Springfield, OH; the economy-inflation and the indictment of Sean “Diddy” Combs were also some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
Lately, life is anything-BUT. Examples: the 2024 presidential race, extreme weather, the consumer economy, recurring gun violence. We’re all wondering, “What NEXT???”
So being-known-for-knowing will earn your station more occasions of tune-in. “Stay close to the news.” And exploit your network by offering, for example, “a quick FOX News update, every half-hour.”
Admittedly, what your network is reporting is also available on smartphones, smartwatches, and smart speakers. But your station may also be, as my clients tout, “Your Only Local News Radio.”
Simply doing local news is a start… BUT… I wish there was a more diplomatic way to say this: Are your newscasts boring?
Too often, local news copy doesn’t enable the listener by telling what a news item means to him or her. I heard a local news voice seeming to read a press release, announcing that: “The [name of] County government’s new website has gone live. The revamped site [URL] was unveiled at this week’s [name of] County commissioners meeting. The board’s chairman said the revamped site has a much more professional appearance, and offers quick, user-friendly navigation. The county’s IT director added that the feedback she’s received so far from county employees and residents has been positive.”
Zzz…
Don’t just recite process. Explain consequence. To Larry & Lisa Listener, typically self-congratulatory source material like that copy is irrelevant blah-blah-blah.
Bothering to actually explore the website, I found how it enables listeners to get help with: “potholes, damaged curb, traffic signals, weeds, dogs barking, abandoned vehicles, chemical discharge, water leaking, litter, road striping, ADA compliance, blocked drainage channel, street lights, damaged sidewalk, traffic/road signs, overhanging trees/shrubs, noise nuisance, hazardous parking, storm sewer leaking/blockage, water leaking on roadway, loose/protruding manhole cover, discrimination complaint, Fair Housing complaint.”
Unwrap the package.
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
Detroit Broadcast Exec Kevin Adell to Sell All Stations, Including 910 AM, WADL-TV. According to a report in the Detroit Free Press (9/12) by reporter Violet Ikonomova, longtime Detroit broadcast executive Kevin Adell has listed all his media properties for sale as he seeks to retire. Adell launched WADL-TV (Channel 38) 35 years ago. He later started The Word Network, a religious television station, and WFDF-AM (910), a longtime, locally-focused urban talk radio station that abruptly flipped to a largely syndicated conservative talk format last year. According to the report, Adell texted, “Passion is somewhere else,” adding, “Decided to [engage in] sport fish.” Adell also attributed his decision to industry turbulence as more people abandon traditional television and radio for streaming services. 
“Our industry is going to take a while to reset itself, like the newspaper industry,” he said, estimating that this “reset” would come in 10 years, or not at all. “This might be the new normal.” Pictured above: Adell (l) with radio historian and videographer Art Vuolo (r). Vuolo tells TALKERS, “He invited me to video in studio the launch of Super Station 910 the first week of September a year ago as he re-branded WFDF-AM 910 as news/talk. He wanted to go after WJR, but with mostly syndicated programming from Premiere Networks. Interestingly 910 now with 50 kw is the third biggest AM signal in Michigan!” For more info, see the entire Detroit Free Press article here. https://www.freep.com/story/money/business/2024/09/12/kevin-adell-sell-radio-tv-staions-wadl-wfdf-world-network/75189174007/
MIW and NABLF Announce Rachel Haggerty as the 2024 MIW NABLF Launch Program Mentee. 
Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. (MIW), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of female leadership in radio broadcasting, and the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF), name Rachel Haggerty as the 2024 MIW NABLF Launch Program mentee. Started in 2023, Launch is a partnership between MIW and the NAB Leadership Foundation dedicated to supporting and guiding women in radio who are relatively new to the industry. 
The first of its kind, this program fosters the development and curation of talent. Haggerty graduated from Seton Hall University in 2019, where she was actively involved with WSOU-FM, serving as assistant technical operations director and later as student manager. After graduation, she completed the National Association of Broadcasters Technology Apprenticeship Program, interning with iHeartMedia’s New York City radio stations. She then worked locally and with a national support team at iHeartMedia before becoming the assistant chief engineer at WABC-AM. Since 2023, she has returned to iHeartMedia New York, working with Premiere Networks on nationally syndicated talk shows. Rachel is also an active member of the Society of Broadcast Engineers and holds a Certificate in Broadcast Radio Engineering.
MH Interviewed by Heidi Harris about AI. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison was interviewed by former Heavy Hundred Las Vegas-based talk veteran Heidi Harris (KXNT, KDWN, Salem, and others) on her rapidly growing independent video “Heidi Harris Show” posted to Rumble.
Harrison addressed the issue of artificial intelligence’s impact on talk show hosts as well as society in general presenting a mixed forecast of both good and bad news. To watch the video in its entirety please click here https://rumble.com/v5f32ed-will-ai-replace-talk-radio-hosts-or-djs-guest-talkers-magazine-publisher-mi.html. For more info about Harris, visit HeidiHarrisShow.com.
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.
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 TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed in news/talk media during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.
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.
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.
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, 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.
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.”