Industry News

Dan Patrick Announces Retirement in 2027

Sports Illustrated’s Kevin Sweeney reports that sports media personality Dan Patrick announces to his fans thatim he plans to retire from the business in four years at the end of 2027. Patrick’s radio program is nationally syndicated via Premiere Networks and is simulcast via YouTube. The former ESPN personality responded to fans who questioned his decision by saying, “This is a young man’s game. I’m the oldest guy doing this. And I enjoy doing it, but by the end of 2027, that’ll be it. You have my word, so plan accordingly.” Read the SI story here.

Industry News

Salem Media Group Unveils “Retire Repurposed” Podcast

Salem Media Group announces the launch of the podcast show “Retire Repurposed” on Salemim-owned SeniorResource.com. Salems says, “‘Retire Repurposed’ challenges the notion that imretirement is simply an end to one’s working life. Instead, it’s an opportunity to repurpose one’s skills, passions, and experiences in a way that can impact the world in a meaningful way.” The program is hosted by Ben Taatjes and Jerrid Sebesta, who add, “The two most dangerous years of a person’s life are the year they were born and the year they retire. That’s why ‘Retire Repurposed’ aims to provide practical advice and inspiration to help listeners navigate this important life transition.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Stories for Week of July 17-21

The various legal battles facing former President Donald Trump was the most-talked-about story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the 2024 presidential race, followed by the Hunter Biden investigation at #3. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed in news/talk media and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Industry News

Tim Wenger Leading Audacy’s Buffalo Stations

Audacy promotes Tim Wenger to SVP and market manager of its Buffalo market. In this role, Wenger will oversee the market’s portfolio of stations that includes news/talk WBEN-AM, sports talkers WGR-AM and WWKB-AM, plus three music brands. Wenger is taking over for Tim Holly who recently announced his retirement. Wenger worked his way up to this role from the programming side of the business. He launched his radio career as a news reporter and anchor at WBEN in 1986. He subsequently rose to news director, program director and brand manager/operations director for the spoken-word stations. Wenger is a recent inductee into the Buffalo Broadcasters Hall of Fame. Audacy regional president Mark Hannon states, “Tim has been a leading presence in our building for nearly 40 years, and it seems only fitting that he now takes over the reins of the market. He has intimate knowledge of our local brands, and I can think of no one better to pick up the mantle from Tim Holly and lead us into the future.” Wenger comments, “As a lifelong Buffalonian, it’s surreal to be assuming the leadership role for Audacy Buffalo’s group of stations. The unique content and personalities on the brands, combined with strong client and sports play-by-play partnerships, positions Audacy for growth and success in Buffalo.”

Industry News

FOX News Digital Posts Positive Q2 Audience Data

FOX News Digital reports that it finished the second quarter of 2023 with year-over-year growth that and its continuing lead in the news competitive set with both multiplatform minutes and views, according to data fromimn Comscore. FOX News Digital bested CNN.com and NYTimes.com in both multi-platform total views and multi-platform total minutes. CNN.com still leads the news competitive set in multi-platform unique visitors, but its numbers in this measure were down 2% (120.2 million) while FOX News Digital’s numbers were up 19% (95 million).

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Beasley Broadcast Group announces that it will report its 2023 second quarter financial results before the market opens on Thursday, August 3.

The Society of Broadcast Engineers announces that the Robert W. Flanders SBE Engineer of the Year award for 2023 is presented to Joseph Conlon of Inver Grove Heights, MN, and a current member of SBE Chapter 17 Central Minnesota. The James C. Wulliman SBE Educator of the Year award is Andrew Gladding, CBT, of Brooklyn, NY, and a member of SBE Chapter 15 New York City. Gladding has been an SBE Member for eight years and is the secretary of Chapter 15. In his role as adjunct professor for audio production at Hofstra University, he has taken numerous steps to recruit and engage new SBE members by teaching them about the broadcasting business and engineering in particular. He is solely responsible for the addition of 40 student members to Chapter 15.

SiriusXM sports talk personality Christopher “Mad Dog” Russo is making his return to Bar Anticipation in Lake Como, New Jersey, for a special live broadcast of his show on August 4 from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. This is Russo’s first broadcast at the popular Jersey Shore venue since 2007. He says, “Bar A, I’m back, baby! The summer show was always a blast. I’m excited to be at it again and we’ve got a great show planned on August 4. Love all our Jersey Shore fans!!!”

Industry News

Yesterday’s (7/19) Top News/Talk Media Stories

Donald Trump legal battles; the 2024 presidential race; the IRS whistleblowers and the Hunter Biden investigation; the controversy over Jason Aldean’s “Try That in a Small Town”; the global summer heatwave and climate change; Texas abortion lawsuit; Russia steps up bombing of Ukraine; and the $1 billion Powerball jackpot were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Salem Announces Five Market Managers Doing Double Duty

Salem Media Group makes changes to its management structure in five markets as market managers currently leading other markets will now also oversee a new, additional market. The company says, “These changes provide some cost savings and will allow Salem’s most seasoned leaders to expand their impact on the performance of the company.” Terry Fahy, regional VP/GM for Los Angeles will now also oversee Oxnard; Steve Brodsky, GM for San Diego, will also manage Honolulu; Dennis Hayes, GM for Portland, will now overseeim Seattle as well; Kevin Isaacs, GM for Cleveland, will now also manage Pittsburgh; and Mark Durkin, regional VP/GM for Sacramento, will also manage Phoenix. This comes months after Carolyn Cassidy was assigned both Tampa and Columbus and John Gallagher began leading Chicago and Little Rock. Salem adds, “In some cases, the former GM will stay on in a sales/sales management role.” Company CEO David Santrella comments, “These changes were made to allow Salem to continue to innovate and invest in our business and to allow the very best leaders to oversee our radio stations.” Salem is also combining the sales efforts of Salem Media Reps and the Salem Web Network with the combined sales team reporting to Mike Reed and Mike DeAmicis at Salem Media Reps. Company COO David Evans adds, “This unified sales team will now have easier access to all digital assets within our company to more fully grow into a ‘One-World’ company that offers ministries, advertisers, and our audiences’ multiple platforms with which to consume content and reach communities.”

Industry News

Round Four of June PPM Released

imThe fourth and final round of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s June 2023 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen’s June 2023 sweep covered May 25 – June 21. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In Milwaukee, iHeartMedia news/talk WISN remains ranked #1 in the market even after losing four-tenths to finish with a 9.8 share, while Good Karma Brands’ crosstown news/talk WTMJ leaps 1.3 shares for 9.5 share finish that lifts it to the #2 rank. In Providence, Cumulus Media’s news/talk WPRO-AM/WEAN-FM tacks on seven-tenths for a 5.9 share finish but stays in the #7 spot, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk WHJJ is up one-tenths for a 0.5 share and remains ranked #17. And in Hartford, Audacy’s news/talk WTIC-AM rises six-tenths to finish with a 5.5 share good for the #6 rank, while Red Wolf Broadcasting’s crosstown news/talk WDRC-AM dips one-tenth to a 1.5 share good for the #15 rank. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings takeaways from this group of markets here.

Industry News

McDowell & Kemp Exit KTCK, Dallas

According to the Dallas Morning News, the early afternoon duo of Dan McDowell and Jake Kemp have resigned their positions with Cumulus Media sports talk outlet KTCK-AM/FM, Dallas after being unable to come to termsim on new contracts to continue “The Hang Zone” show. The report indicates that Cumulus and the two hosts had been negotiating for the better part of seven months on new, long term deals but McDowell & Kemp and the company were split over digital media projects that the two wanted to pursue beyond their work with “The Ticket.” They resigned on Tuesday (7/17). Cumulus has not officially named a new host or hosts for the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm daypart.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (7/18) Top News/Talk Media Stories

Donald Trump receives target letter from special prosecutor Jack Smith regarding January 6 case and Judge Aileen Cannon hears arguments about timeline in classified documents case; the 2024 presidential race; IRS whistleblowers to testify before House committees regarding Hunter Biden investigation; U.S. Army private Travis King crosses the DMZ and is taken into custody by North Korea; immigration and controversy over border police policies; Israeli President Isaac Herzog to address a joint session of Congress; and CMT pulls Jason Aldean video after criticism erupts were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

June 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

imJune 2023 PPM Data – Information for the June 2023 survey period has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford.

Nielsen Audio’s June 2023 sweep covered May 25 – June 21.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are May 2023 – June 2023 (6+).   

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media Group’s KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 5.4 – 4.4, -1.0, fourth to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio-owned KTXX “The Horn” 1.2 – 1.4, +.2, #21 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas’ KUT steady at 4.4, ninth to seventh

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media Group adult hits KBPA, sixth month in succession, 10.5 – 11.4, +.9

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: adult hits KBPA (+.9)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: rhythmic CHR KPEZ (-1.1) 

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 8.3 – 8.2, -.1, second to third

News: Capitol Broadcasting-owned WRAL-HD3 “WRAL News+” .1 – .3, +.2, repeats at #15

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” 3.1 – 2.4, -.7, stays in ninth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 7.9 – 8.3, +.4, third to second

Number One 6+: Urban One urban AC WFXC, sixth straight month, 9.4 – 9.8, +.4

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: urban AC WFXC; public radio news/talk WUNC; and adult contemporary WRAL (+.4)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: sports talk WCMC (-.7)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Urban One’s WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 6.6 – 6.8, +.2, fifth to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” 3.3 – 3.2, -.1, #13 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 4.6 – 5.3, +.7, ninth to seventh

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media adult hits WJJK, first month, 7.6 – 8.0, +.4

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk WFYI and alternative WOLT (+.7)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: country WLHK (-1.0)

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 10.2 – 9.8, -.4, #1

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Brewers) 8.2 – 9.5, +1.3, third to second

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” flat at 1.1, #16 to #17

Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” .9 – .6, -.3, #18 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 3.3 – 2.3, -1.0, #12 to #14

Number One 6+: news/talk WISN, third straight month, 10.2 – 9.8, -.4

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: news/talk WTMJ (+1.3)*

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk WUWM (-1.0)

*Represents a tie for the largest May 2023 – June 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 5.0 – 5.2, +.2, repeats in sixth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” 4.4 – 4.7, +.3, ninth to seventh   

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” 1.4 -1.3, -.1, #18 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 3.3 – 2.8, -.5, flat at #14

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA, fifth month in succession, 13.3 – 11.8, -1.5

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WUBT (+1.1)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WJXA (-1.5)

PROVIDENCE 

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 5.2 – 5.9, +.7, locked in seventh-place

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .4 – .5, +.1, repeats at #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” 3.5 – 2.8, -.7, anchored in eighth-place

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” flat at 2.2, #11 to #12

Cumulus Media’s WPRV “790 The Score” .0 – .1, +.1, #19

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 2.1 – 2.4, +.3, #12 to #9

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN steady at 1.6, unchanged at #14

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWBB, first month, 8.4 – 9.0, +.6

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: news/talk WPRO-AM & WEAN (+.7)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: country WCTK (-.9)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 3.0 – 3.7, +.7, remains at #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group-owned WVSP “Sports Radio 94.1 ESPN” 2.2 – 2.5, +.3, #15 to #12

WVSP cluster-mate WGH-AM “Fox Sports 1310” .2 – .5, +.3, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, sixth straight month, 10.7 – 10.3, -.4

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WTWV (+1.1)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WWDE (-1.4)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 5.5 – 6.3 +.8, seventh to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.5 – 3.7, +.2, #11 to #10

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WJGL, second month in a row, 8.7 – 10.0, +1.3

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WJGL (+1.3)**

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: country WQIK (-2.1)

**Represents a tie for the largest May 2023 – June 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 1.9 -1.6, -.3, repeats at #12

iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” flat at 1.4, continues at #13

WZZR cluster-mate WJNO “News Radio 1290” 1.3 – .9, -.4, #14 to #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida”.5 – .4, -.1, anchored at #18

iHeartMedia-owned WBZT “Sports Radio 1230 The Gambler” steady at .2, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 2.6 – 3.2, +.6, tenth to sixth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WOLL, first month, 7.6 – 8.7, +1.1

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WOLL (+1.1)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WEAT (-3.7)**

**Represents the largest May 2023 – June 2023 decrease (6+) of any station in all 48 PPM-markets  

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 5.0 – 4.2, -.8, continues in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 2.0 – 1.6, -.4, repeats at #12

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC .9 – 1.0, +.1, flat at #13

Number One 6+: Audacy adult hits WSMW, sixth month in a row, 13.3 – 14.0, +.7

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: urban AC WQMG (+1.2)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: news/talk WPTI; country WTQR; and CHR WKZL (-.8)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.2 – 2.1, -.1, #11 to #10

Starnes Media Group-owned KWAM “News Talk Memphis The Mighty 990” steady at .2, #19 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” 3.1 – 2.4, -.7, eighth to ninth

WFMS’ internet stream .4 – .2, -.2, repeats at #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO flat at 1.5, #12 to #13

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS, fourth straight month, 11.8 – 12.2, +.4

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WRVR (+.8)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WHRK (-1.1)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 4.9 – 5.5, +.6, seventh to sixth

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” 1.6 – 1.5, -.1, #14 to #15

WTIC-AM’s internet stream flat at .4, #18 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” .9 – 1.6, +.7, #15 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 5.6 – 3.5, -2.1, sixth to ninth

New England Public Media’s WFCR .7 – .5, -.2, #17 to #18

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 41st month in a row, 10.0 – 9.9, -.1

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: sports talk WUCS (+.7)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk WNPR (-2.1)

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Industry News

Salem Co-Founder Stu Epperson Passes at 86

Salem Media Group co-founder Stuart Epperson has died at 86. The company says that Epperson, along with his brother-in-law Edward Atsinger, founded Salem Communications (now Salem Media Group) in 1986 and expanded Salem’s influence with Christian andim politically conservative news/talk formatted radio stations and media assets nationwide. Epperson was a longtime leader in Christian radio as a former member of the board of directors of the National Religious Broadcasters Association. In 2005, Time Magazine named him one of the 25 most influential evangelicals in America. Salem executive chairman Ed Atsinger comments, “Stuart will be greatly missed by many. I will miss him, but I take comfort in realizing that he is already receiving his reward for a life well-lived. A life that personifies the words of the Apostle Paul in 2 Timothy 4:7-8: ‘I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. Now there Is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.’”

Industry News

Carolyn Carver Named GM for Curtis Media Group

Curtis Media Group announces that Carolyn Carver joins the company as general manager of news/talk WPTF-AM/FM, Triangle Traffic Network and “Rock 929.” The company says, “Carver brings many years ofim experience in radio and digital sales management having worked in markets including Toronto, Buffalo, Greensboro and Houston.” She most recently was vice president of sales for the Greater Wilmington (NC) Business Journal. Curtis Media Group president/COO Trip Savery comments, “Carolyn is a great addition to our management team in Raleigh. Her experiences in radio, digital, and publishing align with the opportunities we have at WPTF, Triangle Traffic Network and ‘Rock 929.’ I am looking forward to seeing her leading our teams to even greater heights.”

Industry News

Swagler Joins Baltimore Pubcaster

News radio pro Craig Swagler, who recently left his vice president and general manager position with CBS News Radio, is joining Your Public Radio’s WYPR and WTMD in Baltimore as president and general manager. Your Public Radio board chair Lisa Manzoneim says, “We are thrilled to welcome Craig Swagler as the new general manager and president of Your Public Radio. His extensive experience in the broadcast industry, coupled with his innovative mindset and community-building approach, will be invaluable as we continue to provide exceptional programming and expand our reach. We are confident that Craig’s leadership will lead Your Public Radio to even greater heights.” Swagler states, “I am thrilled to be joining the outstanding team of content creators, storytellers, and journalists at Your Public Radio. It is an honor to serve Baltimore by amplifying issues, stories, and events of the community’s rich cultural heritage.”

Industry News

Nexstar Media Group Extends Networks President Sean Compton

Nexstar Media Group, Inc announces the extension of employment agreements with Sean Compton, president, networks, and Dana Zimmer, president, distribution and strategy. Compton is responsible for the long-term strategy and business operations of The CW Network, NewsNation, Antenna TV, Rewind TV, Nexstar’s programming acquisitions, The Hill and WGN Radio. Prior to joining Nexstar, Compton was president of strategic programming and acquisitions for Tribune Company from 2008 to 2019. Prior to joining Tribune, he spent a combined 16 years at Clear Channel Radio and Premiere Radio Networks where he served as vice president of programming for 10 years before joining Tribune.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Gridiron Network, LLC announces an 11-game slate of college football games available to radio stations beginning with the first broadcast on September 23. Gridiron Network president & general manager Noah Britt serves as the play-by-play announcer, with color analysts Jon Reynolds and Danny Wuerffel with sideline reporters Jason Crowder, Kurt Kretzschmar, and Patrick Johnson. Key Networks is the exclusive network advertising sales representative for the Gridiron Network and Gow Media is providing broadcast infrastructure support.

Religious broadcaster Hope Media Group announces that Coppelia joins the company as director of media fundraising. In this role, she will coordinate and host on-air fundraising for KSBJ, WayFM, Vida Unida and NGEN. She was most recently with Central Florida Educational Foundation’s WPOZ-FM, Orlando.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (7/17) Top News/Talk Media Stories

Today’s hearing before Judge Aileen Cannon in the Donald Trump classified documents case; the Georgia Supreme Court denies Trump’s attempt to shut down 2020 election investigation; the global heatwave and climate change; the 2024 presidential race and Joe Manchin’s third party run tease; a judge blocks Iowa’s six-week abortion ban; Russia backs out of Ukraine grain deal and bombs Ukraine grain port; and the Hollywood writers and actors strikes were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Does Your Station Sound “On-Vacation?”

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imBy 2009, I had been making my living consulting and coaching talk hosts for 14 years, but I myself had not yet hosted a talk show. Like Rush Limbaugh before he went-talk, I had lots of on-air time under my belt as a music DJ. And that same skill set contributes to talk radio success: “Play the hits” (topics) and convert Cume to AQH (technique).

This month and next, when so many take vacation time, guest-hosts are often local somebodies who are not career broadcasters and don’t share our second-nature performance routines. For their benefit, these tips, based on my experience on both sides of the mic:

My hosting debut was “The Jim Bohannon Show.” And Jimbo told me I was only the third person to ever guest-host, after Joan Rivers and Chris Matthews jump-started their broadcast careers there. But, to these listeners, who-the-heck was I? Lacking the back-story of an A-list comedian or former presidential speechwriter, I simply told the truth, saying, “I’m Jim’s pal, Holland Cooke” as I quickly invited callers into the hour’s topic or teed up the guest. I had promised myself I would avoid “The Sitting-In For Rush Syndrome:” unscripted monologue about myself and blah-blah-blah until the first break. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison – himself a well-traveled guest host – recommends nonchalance and warns against, “It’s such an honor to be here!”

So, if you’re filling-in, that’s Tip #1: Cut to the chase. Don’t devalue the show by committing lots of time explaining that the familiar host is away and who you are. Tee-up what the show is about this hour… why it matters to those listening… how they will benefit from not wandering-off when they hear a stranger… and how to join-in.

im

Demonstrating this technique when “FOX Across America” host Jimmy Failla is off: my long-suffering client Paul Gleiser. His day job is owning KTBB, Tyler-Longview, Texas; and his side hustle is guest-hosting Jimmy’s show, which he’s done a half-dozen times this month. Understanding Tip #2: You’re a guest in someone’s home, Paul asked Jimmy for advice. Always in-character, Failla quipped “Drive it like you stole it!” So Gleiser is all about call count, teeing-up TWO tempting propositions, one topical, the other a softer “Bonus Question.” As I write this, he’s asking, “Which Democrat do we [Republicans] want to run-against in 2024?” and – as new employment numbers are announced – “The WORST job you ever had?” Callers are telling stories.

That’s Tip #3: Invite callers. Admittedly, my debut was a snap, with Jimbo’s show on 500-plus stations. But later, when then-PD Bill White had me do three nights on WBT, Charlotte, he texted me after my first hour to say that I had taken more calls that hour than other hosts get-around-to in a week. In a recession, I asked if callers were “Seeing ‘green shoots’ of recovery?” and “The best car you ever owned?” They all told stories about both. “DON’T beg for callers,” Harrison says. And bring more than just your voice, i.e., guests and sound bites from news feeds. Gleiser: “Prep like the phone is broken.”

 Tip #4: Invite participation multiple ways. Many listeners would rather text than call. Do so and you’ll sound accessible and at-the-speed-of-life. And follow @smerconish to see how (effectively) he polls listeners via social media.

Tip #5: “Know what the show was about yesterday,” Gleiser urges, because political topics tend to change little day-to-day. Avoid this trap: The guest host’s outspoken narrative is a point that’s already been talked-to-death BUT this is HIS shot on a big show, so this is HIS turn to me-too the unison. Better approach: Come up with a new wrinkle; like Paul’s aforementioned “Who [Democrat] do we [Republicans] have the best chance of beating in 2024?”

 Tip #6: Empower callers, by asking their FEELINGS, rather than asking for facts or their expertise. They’re not experts. Instead, use The Magic Words (“you” and “your”): “Should you be fined for installing or replacing your gas stove?” Or empower them with access to a guest they can Q+A about matters that matter to their lives. When the fill-in host is “a somebody” – the mayor or an athlete or an expert – the host him/herself is an opportune topic. As we say when inviting calls to hosts who broker weekend airtime: “The lawyer is in, the meter is off.”

Tip #7: Establish a relationship with the producer “BEFORE the show” Gleiser advises: “Don’t just show up.” Ascertain who-does-what. In some cases, the producer will have booked guests and may suggest or assign call-in topics. Or – in Jimmy Failla speak – you’re driving, if the producer is simply call-screening and running-the-board (which you should NOT attempt if you’re not an experienced broadcaster or if you are unfamiliar with this particular station’s set-up).

Tip #8: Keep re-setting – succinctly, “matter-of-factly” as Michael Harrison puts it — introducing yourself and your guest-or-topic — when you’re going-into and coming-out-of breaks, and at the beginning of each hour. Why: Listeners are constantly tuning-in.

Tip #9: Always and only announce the call-in number immediately after you tell them WHY to call. Most common mistake I hear, even from experienced hosts: They give-out the phone number at the very beginning of the show or hour or segment, then (eventually) they tell you why to call, possibly minutes later (an eternity in live radio). So, they’re haunted by those dreaded “regulars” who already have the number memorized. Make announcing the number the punch line, whether you’re asking opinions on topic du jour or offering access to a guest they’ll want to interact with. ‘Seems like a little thing, but this can make a big difference in how popular you make the station sound.

Tip #10: “Be a convenience to the station,” not high maintenance. Harrison: “If you’re a diva they won’t ask you back.”

Tip #11: Afterward, give it a listen. If you do this for a living, wait a week, so you hear your work with fresh ears. Not a broadcaster? Was there a segment worth sharing on your blog or via social media? Did you or a guest explain something real useful? On Twitter, link to an audio clip of “Pet Pro Dr. Donna Johnson’s tips for helping your critters keep their cool during a long, hot summer,” so you’re useful to those who weren’t listening live. For LOTS of clicks and shares, include pictures of cuddly kittens and puppies.

Tip #12: If you are a career broadcaster, “always be available (and prepared) on short notice,” Michael Harrison recommends. 😉

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Spot-On: Commercial Copy Points That Earned The Benjamins,” a FREE download; and the E-book and FREE on-air radio features Inflation Hacks: Save Those Benjamins;“and Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

Round Two of June PPMs Released

imThe second of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s June 2023 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen’s June 2023 sweep covered May 25 – June 21. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways for this group of markets. In Boston, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WRKO sheds three-tenths for a 4.1 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) that drops it to the #10 rank, while sister all-news WBZ-AM rises three-tenths to finish with a 4.8 share good for the #7 rank. In Phoenix, iHeartMedia’s news/talk dips four-tenths to a 2.4 share and falls to the #17 rank, while Bonneville’s crosstown news/talk KTAR-FM loses two-tenths to also finish with a 2.4 share that leaves the two stations tied for the #17 rank. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

Ratings Takeaways

June 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

imJune 2023 PPM Data – Information for the June 2023 sweep has been released for Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis.

Nielsen Audio’s June 2023 sweep covered May 25 – June 21.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are May 2023 – June 2023 (6+).

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 4.7 – 3.6, -1.1, seventh to ninth

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 8.0 – 8.2, +.2, anchored in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” (Nationals) flat at 2.4, continues at #15

Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU 11.4 – 11.0, -.4, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, 19th month in succession, 11.4 – 11.0, -.4

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: urban AC WHUR (+1.0)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: news/talk WMAL (-1.1)

BOSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” 4.4 – 4.1, -.3, ninth to tenth

News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” 4.5 – 4.8, +.3, eighth to seventh

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” 8.3 – 5.5, -2.8, first to third

Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” (Red Sox) 3.5 – 3.4, -.1 #11 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 5.5 – 5.7, +.2, third to second

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.5 – 4.0, +.5, repeats at #11

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR, first month, flat at 6.0

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: hot AC WWBX (+1.1)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: sports talk WBZ-FM (-2.8)*

*Represents the largest May 2023 – June 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from the 24 PPM-markets we’ve analyzed thus far

MIAMI

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board-owned WLRN 4.1 – 3.7, -.4, seventh to tenth

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group urban AC WHQT, fourth straight month, 9.1 – 8.9, -.2

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: rhythmic hot AC WFLC (+1.7)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WFEZ (-.8)

SEATTLE

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” flat at 4.3, eighth to ninth

News: Lotus Communications’ KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM “Northwest News Radio” 3.4 – 2.6, -.8, #14 to #16

Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” (Mariners) 4.3 – 4.6, +.3, eighth to seventh

Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio’s KUOW 4.0 – 5.6, +1.6, tenth to fourth

Number One 6+: Audacy country KKWF, first month, 6.5 – 7.4, +.9

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk KUOW (+1.6)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KJEB; contemporary Christian KCMS; and sports talk KJR-FM (-.9)

DETROIT

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” unchanged at 2.4, #14 to #17

News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” flat at 3.5, #11 to #12

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Tigers) 7.6 – 7.0, -.6, second to third

WXYT-FM’s internet stream 2.0 – 1.7, -.3, repeats at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 2.2 – 1.8, -.4, #17 to #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia CHR WKQI, first month, 7.2 – 8.1, +.9

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: urban AC WMXD (+1.3)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: classic rock WCSX; sports talk WXYT-FM; and rock WRIF (-.6)

PHOENIX

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” 2.8 – 2.4, -.4, #13 to #17

Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” 2.6 – 2.4, -.2, #15 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College-owned KJZZ 5.6 – 6.3, +.7, fourth to third

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting classic rock KSLX, first month, 6.5 – 6.8, +.3

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: rock KUPD (+.8)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KESZ (-1.1)

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” (Minnesota Twins) 3.7 – 3.2, -.5, #14 to #13

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KTMY “My Talk 107.1” 2.4 – 2.3, -.1, #15 to #16

iHeartMedia’s KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” 1.8 – 1.4, -.4, #18 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” 5.4 – 4.3, -1.1, seventh to tenth

Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW 6.1 – 5.9, -.2, fifth to sixth

Number One 6+: Northwestern Media contemporary Christian KTIS-FM, third consecutive month, 9.5 – 10.3, +.8

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: hot AC KSTP-FM (+1.3)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: sports talk KFXN (-1.1)

SAN DIEGO

 News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” 5.1 – 4.5, -.6, sixth to eighth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” (Padres), 4.9 – 5.4, +.5, seventh to fifth

Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 5.9 – 6.2, +.3, third to second

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KXSN, fifth successive month, 6.8 – 7.1, +.3

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: Spanish contemporary XLTN (+.9)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: adult hits KFBG (-1.2)

TAMPA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” 6.0 – 4.9, -1.1, fourth to sixth

iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” 3.0 – 3.1, +.1, #15 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” (Rays) flat at 2.0, repeats at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 2.7 – 2.6, -.1, #16 to #17

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, 23rd month in a row, 7.9 – 8.8, +.9

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WDUV and country WQYT (+.9)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: news/talk WHPT (-1.1)

DENVER

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOA “News Radio 850” (Colorado Rockies) 3.0 – 3.2, +.2, anchored at #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” 4.0 – 3.5, -.5, #11 to #10

KSE Radio Ventures’ KKSE-FM “Altitude Sports Radio 92.5” flat at 2.4, #17 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 4.1 – 3.4, -.7, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: Bonneville country KYGO, first month, 5.8 – 6.5, +.7

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: country KYGO (+.7)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: hot AC KIMN (-.9)

BALTIMORE

News/Talk: Hearst Television’s WBAL “News Radio 1090 AM & 101.5 FM” (Orioles) 3.6 – 3.2, -.4, #11 to #12

WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” steady at 1.6, repeats at #17

News: Audacy-owned business news WDCH “Bloomberg 99.1 FM” 1.3 – 1.0, -.3, #19 to #20

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” .9 – 1.0, +.1, #21 to #20

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” 4.8 – 3.7, -1.1, eighth to tenth

Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 3.9 – 3.5, -.4, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WLIF, third month in succession, 8.1 – 7.6, -.5

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: country WPOC (+1.9)**

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: rock WIYY (-1.6)

**Represents the largest May 2023 – June 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” (Cardinals) 6.0 – 5.8, -.2, eighth to seventh

KMOX cluster-mate KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 2.1 – 2.0, -.1, locked at #16

iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-FM “104.9 The Patriot” flat at .8, steady at #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” 2.4 – 2.2, -.2, repeats at #15

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 3.6 – 3.7, +.1, #11 to #12

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting adult hits WARH, sixth month in a row, 10.5 – 10.0, -.5

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: country WIL (+1.1)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: alternative KPNT (-1.4)

Up next: June 2023 overviews for Portland; Charlotte; San Antonio; Sacramento; Pittsburgh; Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Orlando; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Kansas City; and Columbus.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Rob and DonFormer President Trump Effectively Working Talk Radio.  Syndicated Newsmax Radio star Rob Carson conducted an exclusive interview with former President Donald Trump yesterday morning (6/13) for his popular midday radio show (12:00 noon – 3:00 pm EDT).  Newsmax played it at 12:00 noon and then repeated it during the 2:00 pm hour to the delight of the show’s national roster of affiliates.  According to a Newsmax spokesperson, “President Trump called Rob this morning and we were supposed to have 15 minutes. After 20 minutes, the former President’s people started asking us to wrap up but Trump said to ignore them, stating that he wanted to spend more time with Rob, and that he is a fan of Rob’s TV and radio shows. The two ended up speaking for a half hour.”  The interview covered topics including the White House cocaine controversy, Trump’s criticism of the Dept. of Justice, the 2024 campaign, the border, human trafficking, the economy and even Elvis Presley. The full interview can be heard by clicking here: Listen Page (newsmax.com)  In recent weeks, the former president has made several appearances on talk radio shows around the country indicating his respect for the ongoing influence of the medium and its listeners.

 

Lynn MontemayorLynn Montemayor Promoted to Director of Sales at Beasley Media Group Detroit.  The Beasley Media Group announces sales pro Lynn Montemayor has been promoted to director of sales at the company’s Detroit-based radio properties. Montemayor most recently served as the GSM of 101 WRIF-FM, 94.7 WCSX-FM, 105.1 The BOUNCE, 105.9 KISS-FM, Detroit PRAISE Network, and Motor City Sports Talk The ROAR. Beasley Media Group Detroit VP/market manager Patti Taylor tells TALKERS, “Lynn is one of the most passionate and adept leaders I have ever worked with. She is thoughtful and fair, a creative teammate and a tenacious partner. I feel lucky and grateful to be working alongside Lynn in this next chapter of the Beasley Detroit cluster.”  Montemayor is stepping up to fill the shoes of Taylor who was also recently promoted to her current position.

Ratings Takeaways

June 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

im

June 2023 PPM Data – Information for the June 2023 ratings period has been released for New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; San Francisco; Dallas; Houston; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario; San Jose; and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.

Nielsen Audio’s June 2023 sweep covered May 25 – June 21.

Managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are May 2023 – June 2023 (6+).

 

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.7 – 3.4, -.3, #11 to #10

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.7 – 1.4, -.3, #18 to #20

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” flat at 4.3, seventh to eighth

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.8 – 2.7, -.1, locked at #13

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 3.0 – 3.1, +.1, repeats at #12

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.8 – 3.4, -.4, eighth to tenth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, eighth month in a row, 8.4 – 7.6, -.8

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: rhythmic CHR WKTU (+.6)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW (-.8)

 

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” steady at 4.3, repeats in fifth-place

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” flat at 2.8, #11 to #12

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.2 – 1.8, -.4, #18 to #20

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KRTH, fourth month in succession, unchanged at 5.9

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KOST (+.7)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KBUE (-1.8)

 

 

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” 3.3 – 3.0, -.3, #9 to #11

Cumulus Media-owned WLS-AM “890 AM” 1.8 – 1.9, +.1, #22 to #20

News: Audacy’s WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 4.2 – 4.6, +.4, repeats in third-place

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WSCR “670 The Score” (Cubs) 2.9 – 2.6, -.3, #13 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media’s WBEZ 3.0 – 2.5, -.5, #12 to #15  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, ninth straight month, 7.3 – 7.2, -.1

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: classic rock WDRV and country WUSN (+.6)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk WBEZ (-.5)

 

 

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.4 – 2.0, +.6, #23 to #18

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.4 – 5.9, -.5, repeats in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.6 – 2.7, +.1, #13 to #11

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 4.5 – 5.3, +.8, fifth to fourth  

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, third month in succession, 9.0 – 7.8, -1.2

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: alternative KITS (+.9)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: sports talk KGMZ (-1.8)

 

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.3 – 3.7, +.4, #11 to #9

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” 6.6 – 5.1, -1.5, first to second

Audacy-owned KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Texas Rangers) 2.3 – 2.4, +.1, #18 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting’s KERA 1.9 – 2.3, +.4, #20 to #17

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KLUV, first month, 5.1 – 5.4, +.3

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: alternative KVIL (+.8)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: sports talk KTCK (-1.5)

 

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) 3.9 – 3.6, -.3, #9 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF 2.7 – 2.3, -.4, repeats at #17

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, 28th consecutive month, 9.2 – 8.9, -.3

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: country KILT-FM (+1.0)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian KSBJ (-.7)

 

 

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 6.7 – 6.5, -.2, remains in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Dickey Broadcasting’s WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) 2.3 – 2.8, +.5, #18 to #14

Audacy-owned WZGC “92.9 The Game” 2.6 – 2.2, -.4, repeats at #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools’ WABE 2.9 – 2.7, -.2, #14 to #15

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, sixth successive month, 8.7 – 10.4,+1.7

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WSRV (+1.7)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: urban AC WAMJ (-1.5)

 

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 5.1 – 5.3, +.2, locked in seventh-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies) 4.9 – 3.8, -1.1, eighth to tenth

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 4.4 – 4.2, -.2, repeats in ninth-place

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic rock WMGK, second straight month, 8.5 – 10.6, +2.1

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: classic rock WMGK (+2.1)*

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: sports talk WIP’s internet stream (-1.2)

*Represents the largest May 2023 – June 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

 

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.2 – 2.5, -.7, #10 to #16

iHeartMedia’s WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.6 – 1.4, -.2, repeats at #20

News: Audacy-owned WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 3.2 – 3.7, +.5, tenth to ninth

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 3.4 – 3.3, -.1, ninth to tenth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 4.0 – 4.4, +.4, seventh to fifth

WFAN’s internet stream 1.1 – 1.4, +.3, #22 to #20

Good Karma-owned WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” 1.6 – 1.4, -.2, flat at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, fourth month in a row, 6.4 – 6.7, +.3

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (+1.0)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: news/talk WABC (-.7)

 

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KPWK “Fox Sports AM 1350” flat at .1, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, steady at .3, anchored at #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, third straight month, unchanged at 7.2

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: regional Mexican KSCA (+.6)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: country KFRG and hot AC KBIG (-.6)

 

 

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.5 – 1.4, -.1, #20 to #18

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.5 – 6.3, -.2, repeats in third-place

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 4.0 – 4.5, +.5, continues at #7

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” 2.3 – 1.1, -1.2, #16 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Bonneville classic rock KUFX, second month in a row, 6.6 – 7.1, +.5

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: hot AC KEZR (+1.0)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: sports talk KGMZ (-1.2)

 

 

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.4 – 5.5, -.9, fourth to third 

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” steady at 1.0, #20 to #19

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 1.8 – 1.5, -.3, repeats at #16

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 1.2 – 1.0, -.2, #18 to #19

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 3.2 – 4.6, +1.4, ninth to sixth

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” 1.2 – 1.0, -.2, continues at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group contemporary WMGQ, first month, 7.2 – 8.7, +1.5

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WMGQ (+1.5)

Largest 6+ May 2023 – June 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW (-2.0)**

**Represents the largest May 2023 – June 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

 

Up next: June 2023 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories for Week of July 10 – 14

The 2023 Vilnius Summit (NATO Summit) was the most-talked-about story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the Russian-Ukrainian war, followed by Inflation tied with Biden-nomics at #3. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed in news/talk media and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Industry News

Round One of June PPMs Released

The first of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s June 2023 PPM survey has been released for New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; San Francisco; Dallas; Houston; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario; San Jose; and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey). Nielsen Audio’s June 2023 sweep covered May 25 – June 21. Among his “Takeaways,” TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian notes that Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM notches the largest spoken-word (news/talk; all-news; sports talk; and public radio news/talk) month-to-month improvement in these dozen metered markets. “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” elevates by +1.4 in Middlesex-Somerset-Union (3.2 – 4.6, 6+) and advances from ninth to sixth. Conversely, another sports talk outlet suffers the sharpest month-to-month decline, as Cumulus Media Dallas’ KTCK falters by -1.5 (6.6 – 5.1, 6+). Thus, after five months at #1, “Sports Radio The Ticket” slips to the runner-up slot. Off by three-tenths each in New York are Red Apple Media news/talk WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” (3.7 – 3.4, #11 to #10, 6+) and iHeartMedia-owned/similarly-formatted WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” (1.7 – 1.4, #18 to #20, 6+). Spoken-word outlets from these dozen PPM markets boasting the highest market rank are Audacy San Francisco’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” (6.4 – 5.9, -.5, steady at #2) and Dallas’ aforementioned “Ticket.” See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways here.

Industry News

Gomez FCC Nom Gains Senate Commerce Committee Approval

Despite protests from nine Republican senators asking to be recorded as “no” votes, the nomination of Anna Gomez to fill the open seat on the FCC moves to the full Senate. This comes after the Senate Commerce Committee endorsed her nomination without a roll call. Committee chair Maria Cantwell (D-WA) remarks, “Ms. Gomez is a dedicated public servant with 25 years of experience in the telecommunications industry. If confirmed, she will be the first Latina on the Commission in more than 20 years. Ms. Gomez has demonstrated she has the experience and judgment to be highly effective in this role as commissioner and has earned bipartisan support for her nomination.” Gomez has been with the State Department since January as senior adviser for International Information and Communications Policy. She previously spent more than 13 years as a deputy assistant secretary at the US National Telecommunications and Information Administration. Meanwhile, the re-nominations of FCC commissioners (Democrat) Geoffrey Starks and (Republican) Brendan Carr for new terms were approved and sent to the full Senate for a final vote. Starks has been on the FCC since 2019; Carr since 2017. Ranking member Ted Cruz (R-TX) opposed the nominations of Gomez and Starks. He accused Gomez of not being sufficiently in support of free speech because she opposes disinformation. Cruz criticized Starks for opposing “key recommendations to reduce fraud in the Affordable Connectivity Program, apparently because he doesn’t want to bar illegal aliens from receiving taxpayer-funded subsidies.” If the full Senate votes to approve Gomez, the Commission will be at full strength for the first time under President Biden’s administration.

Industry News

Napolitano’s Podcast, CMG Partner for Sales and Marketing

Judging Freedom LogoJudge Andrew Napolitano, his Ampere Parkway Productions, Lapcom Communications, and Crossover Media Group enter into a partnership to expand sales/marketing of Napolitano’s “Judging Freedom” podcast. Crossover Media Group managing partner Sue Freund tells TALKERS, “The addition of the ‘Judging Freedom’ podcast to our portfolio is an honor. This partnership signifies our commitment to bringing diverse voices to the forefront. CMG has seen the positive results the judge delivers for advertisers which has further reinforced our enthusiasm for being involved with – and taking –  this podcast to the marketing community.” Lapcom Communications president Steve Lapa – who writes a weekly (Monday) column for TALKERS – comments, “The ‘Judging Freedom’ brand resonates with over five million fans each month. We look forward to the expertise of the Crossover Media Group team as they take ‘Judging Freedom’ to the next level.” Napolitano adds, “We are thrilled to embark on this exciting marketing partnership with everyone at CMG. Their expertise and dedication fit perfectly with our vision for the ‘Judging Freedom’ podcast.” Napolitano’s storylines have included legal, government, and national security issues. The partnership begins with Napolitano’s 30-minute interview of Democratic presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Hand to Host WWTN Middays. After being a fill-in talent on WWTN “Super Talk 99.7 WTN” last October through this past April, Chris Hand will return to the Cumulus Media Nashville news/talk outlet next Monday (7/17) for 9:00 am – 12:00 noon duties. He succeeds Michael Delgiorno, who exited several months ago. Hand previously was media director for Turning Point USA and worked in Pittsburgh at hot AC WLTJ.

KNX to Cover SAG-AFTRA Strike in Special.  Following the SAG-AFTRA National Board’s vote to strike today, Audacy’s all news KNX, Los Angeles will present a KNX In Depth “Instant Special” – Hollywood on Strike: What Now? It will dig into how the dynamics of the strike change with the actors joining the writers on the picket lines, what the long-term impact will be, and how it’s affecting the larger SoCal economy. The program will air at 1:00 pm PT in the normal KNX “In Depth” timeslot and will re-air in afternoon drive at 5:00 pm and again at 8:00 pm. The station will release it on-demand at the conclusion of the program.

KTXX To Jettison Sports Talk on 104.9. Per a Twitter post, Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” will drop its sports talk programming on 104.9 FM as of the first of August. “The Horn,” however will continue on KTAE 1260 AM and K270CO 101.9 FM.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories for Yesterday July 12

The most discussed story on news/talk radio yesterday (7/12) was the direction of inflation and the impact of President Joe Biden’s “Bidenomics” initiative.  At #2, the Russia-Ukraine War.  At #3, the 2024 presidential race.  At # 4, former President Donald Trump’s legal battles. At # 5, the heat and flooding conditions facing various parts of the nation this summer.  The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed in news/talk media and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See last week’s complete chart here.

Job Opportunity

Cumulus Media Eugene Seeks PD For Talk Brands

Cumulus Media Logo

Cumulus Media Eugene (Oregon) is looking for an experienced program director for two iconic brands — news/talk KUGN-AM/FM (home of the Pac 12 Oregon Ducks) and sports talk KUJZ-FM. The program director will be responsible for growing and operating these brands and must have a strong background and passion for sports programming and spoken-word radio. Energy, enthusiasm, and experience within the genre is a must. You will be responsible for all aspects of programming including managing on-air staff; imaging; station strategy; developing/executing revenue-generating sales & programming promotions; website & social media; digital content; and have a strong understanding of the core audience(s). Find out more about this position and apply here.

Industry News

WDET Imports Fox As PD

Having thus far spent his entire broadcasting career north of the border, native Canadian L. Adam Fox relocates to Detroit to program Wayne State University public radio news/talk WDET. He will report to WDET general manager Mary Zatina who states, “Adam’s experience and skills in programming L Adam Fox
are exceptional. He also brings a leadership style that will enhance both staff and listener experiences. WDET is on a fast-track to excellence in all areas; Adam will be steering our sound in a way that fully maximizes the community service we deliver.” Fox comments, “I’m thrilled to be joining the team to support the critical mission of WDET. This station has always been a beacon for me, reflecting the stories and culture of my favorite city in the world, and bringing the news of the world with a Detroit perspective.” For the past ten years, Fox has been program director for Calgary-based National Music Center. Prior to that, he programmed Toronto’s CHRY; was content director for CKUA Radio Network, Alberta; and was station manager of Windsor’s CJAM-FM. After registering a 1.0 in February and March, WDET has repeated a .9 in April and May (#22, 6+, Nielsen Audio).