Anticipation of tonight’s presidential debate topped the list of yesterday’s topics followed closely by the economy. Gun control, the migrant crisis, the Israel-Hamas war, the Russia-Ukraine war and the Tyreek Hill detainment were also some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday (9/9), according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
Listeners now expect what-they-want when-they-want-it. And advertisers want their attention wherever they can get it. So, yes, archiving on-air programming for on-demand consumption has value. Respecting how scarce attention is, this tip: In addition to whole-hour airchecks, offer short, single-topic show excerpts, and title them as obviously as possible. Don’t expect listeners to click-click-click through or sit-through an hour-long aircheck for three great minutes about “How to keep Alexa from spying on you.” So post-and-Tweet that. Otherwise, understand how broadcasting and podcasting are cousins, not siblings.
How podcasting is unlike radio: AM/FM broadcasters’ content is mass-appeal, and locally-oriented. But the best podcast topics are “narrowcast” stuff. And you’re on what we used to call “the Worldwide Web.” So going real narrow is opportune. Example?
Do a podcast about gardening, and you’ll get lost-in-the-weeds. Do one about growing vegetables year-round in a vertical hydroponic garden in a closet and you’ll click.
How successful podcasts are like radio: You’re asking for attention. And with so much competition for it now, that’s a big ask.
That’s where professional broadcasters have an advantage over amateurish podcasters. Best practices that radio has spent 100 years proving are techniques that can earn you habitual listening.
More, including what TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison considers the #1 success factor in podcasting, here: http://getonthenet.com/podcasting.html
Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “The Local Radio Advantage: Your 4-Week Tune-In Tune-Up” and “Close Like Crazy: Local Direct Leads, Pitches & Specs That Earned the Benjamins” and “Confidential: Negotiation Checklist for Weekend Talk Radio.” Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke and connect on LinkedIn.
The presidential race was the dominant topic in news/talk media over the weekend, including anticipation of the forthcoming debate between former President Donald Trump and VP Kamala Harris. This was followed by the Israel-Hamas war, the Russia-Ukraine war, the economy-inflation, the migrant crisis and the kickoff of the NFL season with attention given to the detainment of Dolphins star Tyreek Hill by Miami police on his way to the game which were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Connoisseur Media tells TALKERS about a variety of significant changes for its Western Connecticut news/talk powerhouse, WICC 600 AM, Bridgeport – changes inspired by the closing of Audacy’s WCBS 880 in adjacent New York City. 
WICC is now “The Voice of Connecticut” expanding its reach by simulcasting on 95.9 FM, previously home to classic rock formatted “The Fox.” This strategic move is designed to strengthen WICC’s position as Fairfield County’s premier source for news, talk, and information. A pivotal part of this transformation is WICC’s new affiliation with CBS News, which will provide national news coverage at the top of every hour. Station officials tell TALKERS, this partnership reinforces WICC’s role as the region’s trusted news source, delivering timely and credible information to the communities it serves. “This rebranding and expansion to 95.9 FM represents a pivotal moment for WICC,” stated Keith Dakin, VP of Programming for Connoisseur Media. “The talent on our team, coupled with our new affiliation with CBS News, will allow us to meet the demand for news and talk programming in Southern Connecticut. We’re excited about this next phase and looking forward to serving a much wider geography and bigger audience.” But, as the saying goes, that’s not all. A new local daytime show from 12:00 noon-2:00 pm ET will be added beginning September 30th hosted by Brigitte Quinn who was the creator, host, and managing editor of “Newsline” on WCBS 880. She was the station’s first female morning-drive anchor and later anchored mornings on 1010 WINS. Quinn’s TV career includes roles at MSNBC, NBC News at Sunrise, and Fox News Channel. Quinn remarks, “Ever since my family and I moved back to beautiful Connecticut, I’ve become a faithful WICC listener. I’m delighted to be joining such a great news/talk radio station, ‘The Voice of Connecticut.’” Quinn’s addition brings WICC’s entire daytime lineup local as she joins talk hosts Melissa Sheketoff 5:00 am -10:00 am, Lisa Wexler 10:00 am-12:00 noon and Paul Pacelli from 2:00 pm-6:00 pm. New additions to weekend programming also include Emmy nominee Chef Plum, Mike Cerulli of WTNH, New Haven, and Dave Ruden of the Ruden Report covering local high school sports. The station plans to continue evolving in this direction with one more critical news reporter position to fill. “We invite Fairfield County listeners to tune in to ‘The Voice of Connecticut,’” says Kristin Okesson, SVP of Connoisseur Media Connecticut. 
“Our affiliation with CBS News paired with these exciting changes in programming reinforces our commitment to deliver modern, engaging content and we’re confident that our audiences will appreciate the new ‘voice’ they hear. I’m especially proud that our daytime shows are hosted by four incredibly talented hosts – three of them in particular are outstanding women in their own right.” WICC can be streamed at voiceofct.com. For more insight into these changes, check out WICC host Lisa Wexler’s interview conducted on air yesterday with company CEO Jeff Warshaw by clicking here.
Newsmax Inc. tells TALKERS it has confidentially filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission an offering statement and expects to conduct an initial public offering later this year or in early 2025. The company seeks to raise up to $75 million in its public offering under Regulation A+, the largest offering of its kind to date on a national securities exchange. The company expects to apply to be listed on the NYSE under the ticker symbol “NMAX.”
The company’s subsidiary, Newsmax Media Inc., operates the nation’s fourth highest-rated cable news channel. In July, Nielsen reported that Newsmax was the seventh highest-rated cable channel overall among daytime viewers. Newsmax reaches more than 40 million Americans regularly through its platforms in television, streaming, online, and in print. “The success of our mission to provide Americans with honest and real news is reflected by our loyal and growing following,” Newsmax founder and CEO Christopher Ruddy tells TALKERS. In advance of this contemplated initial public offering, Newsmax has launched a private placement offering to raise $150 million.
For a limited time, eligible investors will be able to invest in this private offering. The private offering is solely available to accredited investors. Individuals interested in learning more about these Newsmax investment opportunities and registering an indication of interest can go to the green sign-up box at www.NewsmaxInvest.com to receive information.
Longtime talk media host, commentator and director of the Good For You Network Claire Carter (a.k.a. C.C. Carter) is making the audio files of two of her compelling short-form podcasts about 9/11 available at no cost for airplay on interested radio stations and talk media shows in time for this coming Wednesday’s 23rd anniversary of the tragic attack on America. The first titled, “Never Again Should There Be a 9/11,” (8:00) is a plea for American government and society alike to learn from the mistakes made before, during and after the tragedy to prevent such an atrocity from happening again. Carter tells TALKERS, “On the Sunday after 9/11, I listened to a sermon titled, ‘Making Sense of the Senseless.’ Its overriding message was: We cannot allow all these people to have died in vain. We need to do good in their name. And so to honor and remember all those who died, all those who survived, all those involved in the rescue and recovery efforts, as well as all those whose lives will never be the same, I have written and recorded a moving, memorable and thought-provoking piece, ‘Never Again Should There Be a 9/11,’ with the music, ‘Help is on the Way’ composed and performed by composer, David Friedman. It is even more compelling when you watch the video on YouTube.” Carter adds, “We came together then. Can we come together again for the sake of the well-being of our nation and world. And what will it take to prevent such a horrific act from happening again? Thank you for caring and getting the vocals, the music and the video to as many people as possible around the world – including government officials who need to ensure our safety and security.” View the video here. Regarding the podcast, “Reflections on 9/11,” Carter says, “Two months after 9/11, I went down to the World Trade Center site to pay my respects. I walked over to the makeshift ‘Teddy Bear’ memorial site, where people had spontaneously left notes and cards – and teddy bears. I wanted to write down some of what was left, because it was meant to be heard. I wanted to give voice to peoples’ hearts and heartache. And so, I ask you to listen to the raw emotions emanating from their hearts. ‘Reflections on 9/11’ (4:11) with music by Gunhill Road that you can download here. To arrange an interview with Carter please email info@talkers.com.
WABC, New York/Red Apple Media owner/CEO John Catsimatidis continues to add intriguing live elements to the lineup of his radio station and leverage them into product for his growing syndication platform, Red Apple Audio Networks. The latest such addition to the station and network is unapologetically controversial political strategist Roger Stone. Since the 1970s, Stone has worked on the campaigns of Republican politicians, including Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, Jack Kemp, Bob Dole, and most recently, Donald Trump. Stone’s show is heard on WABC, Sunday afternoons from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm ET. The first two hours focus on national and world news and are available to radio stations across the nation via the Red Apple Audio Network. The third hour is specific to WABC and issues focused on the New York area. In making the announcement about his new association with Stone, Catsimatidis tells TALKERS, “His insightful commentary on the political landscape and what’s ahead for America will be of tremendous value to our listeners in New York, around the country, and around the world.” Stone adds, “John has done a great job bringing in big names from politics, business, and entertainment and I’m looking forward to enjoying being on the radio, sharing my perceptions about what’s going on in Washington and the world, and connecting with listeners across America.”
The horrific Georgia school shooting topped the list of yesterday’s topics followed closely by the presidential race. Donald Trump’s ongoing legal issues, the economy, the migrant crisis, the Israel-Hamas war, and the Russia-Ukraine war were also some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday (9/4), according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Hubbard Radio’s innovative Twin Cities talk outlet, “myTalk 107.1” (KTMY, Minneapolis-St. Paul) is teaming up with noted filmmaker/author/social activist Justin Baldoni 
and two domestic violence agencies to host a roundtable to discuss the pain and trauma of domestic violence. myTalk 107.1’s Brittany Arneson, Kendall Mark and Colleen Lindstrom will lead the conversation live on the radio from 3:00 to 4:30 pm CT tomorrow (9/5). The program will also be available on demand. Station officials tell TALKERS, the goal of the discussion is “to create an open dialogue to help remove unwarranted shame from victims and bring the issue into the light to work toward a solution.” Justin Baldoni produced, directed, and played a leading role in the film “It Ends With Us” which has brought domestic violence to the forefront,
spurring honest and open conversations about an issue that is too often not discussed. The film has grossed over $275 million worldwide. Joining the conversation will be representatives from two agencies – No More Foundation and Tubman. 
No More Foundation is a national agency with a mission to “end domestic and sexual violence by increasing awareness, inspiring action, and fueling culture change.” Tubman is a Minneapolis-St. Paul-based domestic abuse agency with a mission “to advance opportunities for change so that every person can experience safety, hope, and healing.” myTalk 107.1 has hosted a series of award-winning roundtable discussions about important issues inspired by current events and pop culture news. Past roundtables have tackled teen suicide, sexual harassment, and transgender issues.
The presidential race/latest polls/U.S. accuses Russia of trying to influence election; Israel-Hamas tensions/protests; the Russia-Ukraine war; the economy/inflation; the migrant crisis; and a former NY State official accused of spying for China were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday (9/3), according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Brett Pomykala Named SVP/Sales for iHeartMedia Washington, DC. It was announced today (9/3) that Brett Pomykala has been named senior VP of sales for iHeartMedia Washington, DC effective immediately. iHeartMedia Washington, D.C. has a strong cross-platform presence and includes an array of iconic brands and franchises — both broadcast and digital — encompassing more than eight stations comprised of talk, news, and music formats. In this role, Pomykala will manage the sales efforts in Washington, DC reporting to Aaron Hyland, region president for iHeartMedia Washington, DC and Baltimore.
Salem’s Tom Tradup: “There’s a Growing National Appetite for Christian Films Among American Audiences.” Salem Radio Network VP/news and talk programming Tom Tradup (pictured here over the weekend at a showing of “The Forge” with the film’s star Priscilla Shirer) tells TALKERS, “Filmmakers the Kendrick Brothers have created a solid film with a powerful message about how mentoring can turn around the lives of troubled youth in America. ‘The Forge’ is nearing $20 million in box office receipts in only nine days and proves that theatergoers are looking for content beyond just superheroes, car crashes, and rehashed animated features.” SONY/Affirm Films’ “The Forge” logged in at #7 in the top ten films over the competitive Labor Day weekend. “The built-in audience for Christian films makes them much more profitable than multi-million-dollar Hollywood blockbusters,” Tradup adds. He cited 2023’s Erwin Brothers film “Jesus Revolution.” The biographical film about Southern California pastor Greg Laurie premiered in February last year, produced on a slim budget of $15 million, went on to gross more than $54 million dollars.
VSiN, The Sports Betting Network, Unveils Fall Programming LineupAnnounces New Talent and Shows. VSiN, The Las Vegas-based Sports Betting Network (“VSiN”) announced its new programming lineup with an injection of new talent joining familiar faces. In time for the beginning of the 2024 NFL season, VSiN begins rolling out its fall schedule to cement what it describes to TALKERS as its position as the trusted authority in sports betting.
For the full schedule, please click here.
Veteran Talk Show Host Heidi Harris Gaining Traction with Facebook Page Show. Veteran Las Vegas-based talk show host Heidi Harris (formerly with KXNT, KDWN, in LA as well as KRLA, Los Angeles) has been gaining traction with her independently produced and distributed online version of “The Heidi Harris Show” 
She tells TALKERS, “Last week, retired Metro Traffic Sergeant Tom Page joined me for a chat about traffic stops, which are often the first contact a citizen has with police. What are they allowed to do, and what are you obligated to do during a traffic stop? Get the answers to these and other common citizenship questions here. We’ll be doing more of these informative chats in the coming weeks.” Harris is a past recipient of the Electronic Media Award (EMA) for Best Local Radio Talk Show in Las Vegas as well as being a former member of the TALKERS Heavy Hundred. She’s also an author. Check out her show by clicking here.
92.5 FOX News, WFSX-FM, Fort Myers/Naples, FL is looking for an “energetic and experienced” talk host to join their team. The Sun Broadcasting-owned station describes the opportunity as follows: “This isn’t just a job; it’s a golden opportunity to secure your dream role in sunny Southwest Florida. We’re on the hunt for a seasoned broadcaster who can captivate our loyal and massive audience with compelling story-telling skills, unique insights, and a strong grasp of conservative values.” For more information about the opportunity and its benefits along with contact information, please click here.
The presidential race was the dominant topic in news/talk media over the long holiday weekend, including continuing analysis of the recent Harris–Walz CNN interview and escalating outrage over the Trump Arlington National Cemetery incident. This was followed by the massive protests in Israel, the Russia-Ukraine war, the hotel workers strike, the economy-inflation, and the migrant crisis which were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
The presidential race including the mic muting debate and CNN interview with VP Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz was the most talked-about story in news/talk media this week landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the Arlington National Cemetery incident; At #3 former president Donald Trump’s legal issues; the economy with a focus on inflation at #4; the migrant crisis at #5; Israel-Hezbollah tensions at #6; and the Russia-Ukraine war at #7. 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.
Beasley Media Group has announced the official launch yesterday (8/28) of Augusta Today, a new online news site. Augusta Today will focus on local news in, around, and about the Greater Augusta metro area. Developed with the goal of giving people both “the stories they want and the news they need,” the hyper-local publication features established Augusta-area writers and media figures such as Ashley Brown, Austin Rhodes, and Kris Fisher. Augusta Today will be free. “Free and easy – that’s the mantra,” says editor-in-chief Steven Uhles. “We wanted to make sure that these stories were not blocked by a paywall and that our conversations with the community remain unfettered and unencumbered.” Inspired by both the classic daily newspaper model and the more free-wheeling approach of alternative weeklies, Augusta Today has been developed “to educate as well as entertain” featuring breaking local news, sports coverage, lifestyle features and an array of columns. “We all are extremely excited about Augusta Today and what we believe it will mean to this community,” Kent Dunn, VP/market manager of Beasley Media Group tells TALKERS. “We see this as a great addition to our portfolio of radio stations here in the Augusta market and a real extension of our local-first approach to engaging with the community.” To visit Augusta Today please click here.
Renowned radio and media consultant Mike McVay is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” McVay is a radio industry innovator and trailblazer. His consulting firm, McVay Media, has been at the top of the game for more than 30 years and he’s been a major player in just about all aspects of the radio business for more than four decades. During that time, he also served eight years as the executive vice president of content and programming for Cumulus Media and the Westwood One radio network. In that role, he oversaw the programming for Cumulus’ then 450 owned radio stations and Westwood One, the company’s national network/syndication arm. He’s a talent coach who has influenced the careers of scores of major personalities on the air in America and abroad, a podcasting and new media visionary, and an all-around expert on entertainment and communications. Harrison and McVay take a deep dive into the past, present and future of radio as well as the burgeoning impact of the digital era on society. Don’t miss this! To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here.
The presidential race; the debate “to mute or not to mute” debate; the Trump team Arlington National Cemetery incident; Trump’s legal issues; the Facebook-Covid-19 censorship Zuckerberg revelation; Israel’s West Bank raid; and the late-summer heatwave affecting parts of the U.S. were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday (8/28), according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
New York City business news reporter Joe Connolly – who served as business reporter for WCBS-AM for more than 30 years – joins Red Apple Media’s WABC Radio to host the one-minute feature “Business
Success Stories with Joe Connolly.” The program will highlight local business success stories and air on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Red Apple owner John Catsimatidis says, “Joe is the best business news reporter in New York and a highly trusted source for business intelligence. In the midst of questions about the economy and where it’s going, Joe will find success stories that inspire others. New York radio listeners, especially those who own or run businesses, will benefit from these uplifting interviews.”
The presidential race; Jack Smith files a new indictment against Donald Trump; the Trump team Arlington National Cemetery incident; a federal judge pauses the Biden administration’s citizenship pathway for undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens; Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg says Biden administration pressured Facebook to censor COVID-19 content; Israel launches a West Bank raid; January 6 rioter sentenced to four years in prison; and the late-summer heatwave affecting parts of the U.S. were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
The presidential race, the debate microphone disagreement, RFK, Jr’s endorsement of former President Donald Trump, the polls, the economy, the migrant crisis, the Israel-Hamas war, and the Russia-Ukraine war were some of the most talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday (8/26) according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
WCBS 880 Final Tribute. Radio videographer and historian Art Vuolo has provided the industry with an aircheck of the three-hour WCBS 880 special from when it was repeated yesterday 8/25. With digital spot remover, he got it down to a total running time of 2:11:20. Reflecting on the special and the legendary station’s times, Vuolo tells TALKERS, “It was well done with a lot of news memories. Another great AM goes away. Sad.” The special can be heard by clicking here.
“This Old House” Personality Roger Cook Dies. TV Personality Roger Cook, a longtime landscape contractor on “This Old House,” passed away last week at the age of 70 after bravely waging a long battle with illness. “This Old House” got its start at Boston public media producer GBH in 1979. GBH president/CEO Susan Goldberg tells TALKERS, “Roger was a beloved mainstay of “This Old House” and he fully embodied the spirit of public television in his dedication to educating his audience in plain language about all nuances of landscaping. Roger leaves behind an unforgettable legacy for so many ‘This Old House’ fans and for GBH. He will be missed.” Please click here for more information.
The aftermath and analysis of the Democratic National Convention; the presidential race; RFK, Jr’s endorsement of former President Donald Trump; the escalation of the Israel-Hamas War; the economy; and the mpox outbreak in Africa were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
The Democratic National Convention was the most talked-about story in news/talk media this week landing atop the Talkers TenTM including a wide array of issues connected to the presidential race. At #2 this week was the economy including inflation and jobs, followed by the U.S. migrant crisis at #3, the Israel-Hamas war at #4, and the Russia-Ukraine war at #5. 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.
IBS National Conference Set for 2025. The Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) has announced its annual conference will be coming back to New York City next year. Set for March 7-8, 2025, the nation’s longest running, largest and most important gathering of college radio broadcasters will be held again at the Sheraton Times Square in the heart of Manhattan. Organizers have plans in the works for activities like additional sessions and tours during the day on Thursday, March 6 as well. Early registrants can save big bucks. $109 per person for up to 10 attendees, then the rest of your staff goes for free! This offer ends October 15, (and then prices and group deals go up). TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison, who was a featured speaker at last year’s conference says, “One of the most dynamic scenes in radio today connecting the present with the future is playing out on college campuses across the nation. Professional broadcasters interested in the future of this medium and industry should attend this event. I always come away from it invigorated and inspired.” For more info on IBSNYC 2025, please click here.
Sterling Shines in Philly. In the first two months since the debut of “Sterling Every Damn Night” on WPHT, Philadelphia, the quirky 9:00 pm – 12:00 midnight talk show hosted by Walter M Sterling (a.k.a. legendary media consultant Walter Sabo) has been gathering jaw dropping metrics. The show has delivered five times the total share of audience 12+ since the same time last year and has proven to be formidably competitive in every key news/talk radio demo. What makes it so interesting on an industry level is its departure from the standard left-right partisan politics that dominates the news/talk format. It covers what is described as “nightly life” – such as the trouble with customer service, in-laws, schools, and romance. What one talks about with their best friends is what the show discusses. Features on the show include listener calls, plus “People of Walmart,” “True Detective Stories,” and new perspectives on current events: Sterling had the first interview with a citizen of Ukraine while bombs were going off, and a Tel Aviv bus driver sharing thoughts on America’s alleged lack of support for Israel. The show is designed for guards up all night in the building lobby, people getting done with second shift, going on third shift, cramming for finals or trying to get the baby to sleep. This is a show that deserves radio industry attention.
The Democratic National Convention, the presidential race, the economy with a focus on inflation and jobs, the U.S. migrant crisis, the Israel-Hamas war, the Russia-Ukraine war, and mpox were some of the most talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday (8/21) according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Rich Valdés is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” He is a seasoned communications professional with extensive experience in multiple media formats including radio, podcasting, television, and print journalism as well as a demonstrated passion for policy, education, and community volunteerism. He is the host of Westwood One’s “America at Night” airing weeknights from 10:00 pm to 1:00 am ET. An eclectic generalist, he talks with guests and callers about a spectrum of topics ranging from current events and politics to entertainment and pop culture. Valdés was named permanent host of the show in October of 2022 filling the big shoes of the late Jim Bohannon, who passed away shortly thereafter following a brave battle against esophageal cancer. He’s a proud American of Puerto Rican heritage – a Gen-X’er who was born in Brooklyn and grew up in New Jersey. He’s known as “your liberty-loving Latino amigo” as well the “voice of Hispanic conservatives.” Harrison and Valdés discuss the important role Puerto Ricans play in U.S. politics as well as a number of other contemporary topics. Listen to the podcast here.
Audacy’s legendary station 830 WCCO, Minneapolis is planning a series of special endeavors to celebrate its 100th anniversary, including a double album with commemorative content, a gubernatorial proclamation and a grand centennial event. As part of its century-long “good neighbor” heritage, WCCO will also donate the proceeds from the double album release and centennial event to four of its non-profit partners: Disabled American Veterans Minnesota (DAVMN), Second Harvest Heartland, Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities (UGMTC), and the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP). “As we honor 100 years of being a local and regional broadcasting leader, we’re not just reflecting on our past legacy, but also spotlighting the community’s continuous support,” says Brad Lane, station brand manager and program director. “Our centennial events and philanthropic efforts are testaments to 830 WCCO’s enduring commitment to positively impacting Minnesota!” Tomorrow (8/22) WCCO will launch its 100th anniversary double album, offering 88 minutes of audio spanning WCCO’s colorful history. Each vinyl will include a unique digital download code with the audio and bonus content, including an additional eight hours and 30 minutes of outtakes, tributes, memories and over 200 images. Gov. Tim Walz (and Democratic VP nominee), has officially designated August 30 “8-3-0 Day,” and the station is gearing up to fill the day with festivities, including live broadcasts and in-person appearances at the Minnesota State Fair from WCCO’s talent alumni, who will share their favorite station stories. Longtime personality Chad Hartman will throw the first pitch at Target Field prior to the Twins game against the Toronto Blue Jays. On October 21, WCCO will host a centennial celebration at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre, featuring a live show with current and former talent. The station will continue to air “100 Days, 100 Moments Presented by General Mills,” a series of vignettes highlighting the most significant events and personalities heard on-air over the years. For more information about WCCO’s 100th anniversary celebrations, please visit here.
The Democratic National Convention, the presidential race, the economy, the U.S. migrant crisis, Ukraine’s incursion into Russia, and Gaza cease-fire talks were some of the most talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday (8/20) according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
The presidential race and the Democratic National Convention; the economy; the U.S. migrant crisis; Gaza cease-fire talks; Ukraine’s incursion into Russia; Iran accused of hacking Donald Trump and Kamala Harris campaigns; former U.S. Rep. George Santos pleads guilty to identity theft and wire fraud; and Phil Donahue dies at 88 were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Forum Communications’ news/talk WDAY-AM/FM, Fargo is considering its legal options with regard to its news headlines that were edited and then used by Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign. According to The National Desk, WDAY managing partner Steve Hallstrom says the campaign edited the headline of a WDAY
story that was used in a Google ad to read: “Harris Picks Tim Walz – 215,000 MN Families Win.” WDAY says it wrote no such headline. Hallstrom tells The National Desk, “They lied to everybody who saw that ad, and they misled them into believing that there is a news organization, with a 100-year history in our community of doing good solid journalism, that not only took sides in a political debate, if you will, but also openly performed cheerleading exercises on behalf of that candidate in their news headlines in their story. That’s wrong.” Washington, DC television outlet WJLA-TV writes, “A source familiar with the Harris campaign’s advertisement team told Axios the campaign buys ads with news links to give more context to voters searching for information about Harris.” Hallstrom responds to that saying, “I don’t care what their intent was or what they were hoping to do. All I care about is what happened to us. We have reporters in our newsroom who have been working in this market for decades to build their credibility as an objective and unbiased reporter.” See the full WJLA-TV story here.
The presidential race and this week’s Democratic National Convention; the economy; Ukraine’s incursion into the Kursk region of Russia; the negotiations over a cease-fire in Gaza; GOP report accuses Joe Biden of “impeachable conduct”; George Santos expected to plead guilty to federal charges; charges in the death of actor Matthew Perry; and the mpox outbreak in Africa were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
The presidential race was the most-talked-about story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the Economy and the announcement that prescription drug costs will be lowered, followed by the U.S. migrant crisis at #3 and the various primary races at #4. 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.