Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

SiriusXM announces that Hall of Fame basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski will host the premiere episode of the 19th season of his exclusive weekly SiriusXM show, “Basketball and Beyond with Coach K,” today (10/19) at 6:00 pm ET with Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo, whose team faces the Phillies in game three of the NLCS this evening. Also on the program will be NBC broadcaster Maria Taylor.

Audacy announces the launch of the third season of “Gone South,” the Edward R. Murrow Award-winning original investigative franchise. In “Gone South, Season 3: The Sign Cutter,” Audacy and Emmy- and Peabody Award-nominated producer and journalist Jed Lipinski team up to unravel the story behind the 2018 killings of four sex workers in the border town of Laredo, Texas. Those murders triggered a manhunt for a serial killer that would lead to a shocking standoff with a man once tasked with protecting the town.

AdLarge announces that Headspace Studios joins its podcast portfolio, expanding content focused on mental health, wellness and mindfulness. Headspace’s podcast collection includes “Dear Headspace,” “Radio Headspace,” and “Sunday Scaries.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s (10/18) Top News/Talk Media Stories

Congressman Jim Jordan (R-OH) fails in his second bid to become Speaker of the House; the Israel-Hamas war and President Joe Biden’s visit to Israel; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the 2024 presidential race; the Russia-Ukraine war and Vladimir Putin’s meeting with China’s Xi Jinping; and Joran van der Sloot admits to killing Natalee Holloway in Aruba in 2005 were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

“New Jersey 101.5” Honored by NJ Society of Professional Journalists

Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW-FM, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” is recognized by the New Jersey Society of Professional Journalists for its service to the community with three first-place awards in its 2023 Excellence in Journalism Contest. In the category of Best Public Affairs Show (TV and Radio), the station’s town hall special, “Class Disrupted – Pandemic Learning Loss,” which broughtim together a panel of educators, behavioral specialists and policymakers to examine how best to deal with pandemic learning loss won first place and will be received by the leading team members behind the town halls: anchor Eric Scott, director of content Anne Gress, news director Annette Petriccione, managing editor Sergio Bichao, and operations specialist Dan Alexander. The station also won in the Broadcast – Best Breaking News Coverage category for its coverage of the mayhem that erupted in Long Branch at the start of the summer season at the Jersey Shore. Managing editor Sergio Bichao, reporter Dan Alexander and then-producer and weekend host Jordan Jansson worked late into the night to chronicle a developing story that had far-reaching impacts on public opinion and policy relating to law and order. Finally, the station won in the Best Use of Sound for Radio News Story for reporter Dino Flammia’s series of on-air and online reports marking the 10th anniversary of Superstorm Sandy.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (10/17) Top News/Talk Media Stories

Congressman Jim Jordan (R-OH) fails in his bid to become Speaker of the House; hundreds sheltering in a hospital in Gaza die as Israel and Hamas blame each other; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the 2024 presidential race; the Russia-Ukraine war and Vladimir Putin’s meeting with China’s Xi Jinping; and Alec Baldwin to face new charges in Rust shooting were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Beasley Receives Non-Compliance Notice from Nasdaq

On Friday (10/13), Beasley Broadcast Group received a delisting warning from Nasdaq because its Class A common stock had traded at less than $1 for the past 30 business days.  There’s no immediate effect on the BBGI stock as it has a “cure period” that gives it until April 10, 2024 to trade for at least a dollar per share for 10 consecutive business days. Even if that doesn’t happen, Beasley could getim another 180-calendar day compliance period if it moves its stock to the Nasdaq Capital Market and satisfies other certain requirements. Beasley is the fourth audio company to face delisting this year. Audacy received notice from the New York Stock Exchange and in June engineered a 1-for-30 reverse stock split. Its stock closed at 35 cents per share on Monday (10/16). Salem Media Group received a delisting notice from Nasdaq in June giving it 180 days to rise above the $1 threshold. It closed at 68 cents per share on Monday (10/16). Urban One also received a delisting notice from Nasdaq but not for its share price. That company is late with quarterly reports due to independent accounting issues.

Industry News

WGN, Chicago Recognizes Longtime Employees

im

WGN Radio celebrates staffers Marlene Wells (left) and Jim Holland (right, with WGN Radio vice president and general manager Mary Sandberg Boyle at center), who have a combined 106 years of service to the station. This year marks the 56th anniversary for promotions, sales, and merchandising coordinator Marlene Wells and the 50th anniversary for engineer in charge Jim Holland. Wells, a Chicago native who recalls fondly the first day she walked in to start the job, has been an integral part of the promotions of the station, from guiding on-site broadcasts to organizing events over the years like PumpkinFest, the Kathy and Judy Conventions and countless others. Holland, a graduate of Northwestern University, was instrumental in the station moves over the years from Bradley Place to the Tribune Tower and to its current location at 303 E. Wacker. Holland did work on “Bozo’s Circus” and designed and constructed a studio switcher system that served WGN for over 20 years. Both appeared in the 45-minute documentary “100 Years of WGN Radio: A Retrospective” that aired in 2022 as part of the station’s anniversary. You can see the documentary here.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Cumulus Media Inc is hosting a conference call on Friday, October 27 at 8:30 am ET to discuss its third quarter 2023 operating results. A press release containing a summary of these results will be issued before the call at approximately 8:00 am ET.

Public media organization GBH announces a “major expansion” of its local arts and culture programming as it launches “The Culture Show,” a one-hour daily local radio program on WGBH-FM, Boston offering listeners a wide-ranging look at society through art, culture and entertainment. The program begins airing from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm on Fridays on November 3 and transitions to a daily show on December 4. GBH GM of news Pam Johnston comments, “‘The Culture Show’ builds on GBH’s deep legacy in the arts and culture space. We are proud of our seven-decade commitment to bringing local audiences vibrant and inspirational culture programming. Culture is the lens through which our audiences experience the world. We’re proud to be expanding our arts and culture team, offering people daily engaging conversations about what we see, watch, taste, hear, feel and talk about.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s (10/16) Top News/Talk Media Stories

Congressman Jim Jordan’s push to become the next House Speaker; the Israel-Hamas war and President Joe Biden’s planned Wednesday trip to Israel; the gag order imposed on former President Donald Trump and his legal battles; the 2024 presidential race; U.S. migrant crisis; and Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett calls for a SCOTUS ethics code were some of  the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend

The GOP’s maneuvering to elect a new Speaker of the House; Israel’s war against Hamas and the destruction of Gaza; an Illinois landlord kills a six-year-old Muslim boy and injured his mother; the 2024 presidential race; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the U.S. migrant crisis; and the “ring of fire” solar eclipse were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry Views

The Problems Facing Radio Were Not Caused by Consolidation

By Walter Sabo
Consultant, Sabo Media Implementers
A.K.A. Walter Sterling
Radio Host, “Sterling On Sunday”
Talk Media Network

imAs your friends get fired and on-air hosts are replaced with WideOrbit and Profitable Software, the mournful refrain is to unfairly blame consolidation. Consolidation has, in fact, made the medium financially viable and brought hundreds of individual stations from a river of red ink to the glow of black ink. Prior to consolidation, over half the radio stations in the U.S. lost money – year after year. Not a secret stat, those numbers were revealed annually by the NAB.

The flaw in the deregulation law was the elimination of the rules regarding financing of station acquisitions. Previous regulations required a licensee to prove it had the financial resources to cover expenses through the term of the license. Licenses could not be purchased with debt. Licensees could not sell the license until it expired. Radio stations could not be used for speculatory financial gain. When those rules were tossed, the industry hit a financial tailspin from which it has not recovered. That’s the problem.

That is not a “problem” with radio. In talks with publisher Michael Harrison about his exciting role in the United Nations as executive advisor to World Radio Day 2024, we shared a key observation: The world’s radio industry is overwhelmingly enthusiastic. Working with clients in London, Toronto, Montreal, Amsterdam, Athens and Sydney, the passion for the medium continues to grow and is supported by audience engagement and response.

Internationally, there is a robust radio set design and manufacturing industry. European listeners seek clothing featuring radio set themes and artwork. Believe me, the food at the NAB Europe is much better than that crap served here.

Follow the money. Radio is not legacy media. Radio is proven media – proven for over 100 years. Local retail advertisers are a practical lot. They buy advertising that works for this weekend. If it doesn’t bring feet to the floor and dollars to the door, sponsors just don’t repeat-buy.

I was the in-house programming guru at SiriusXM Satellite Radio for eight years starting pre-launch. The reason Sirius exists is test after test revealed that Americans liked radio so much, used radio so much, they wanted more stations. More choice. More.

Consolidation, with considerable credit to Randy Michaels, allowed radio to convert from a frequency media buy to a reach media buy. That puts radio in budgets with TV. The opportunity right now is to actually monetize radio’s clout as a reach medium. Create scarcity. More spots mean cheaper spots, smaller budgets and higher expense. More spots mean much less efficiency for media buyers. Media buyers have to spend their budgets. They would prefer to spend that money with one or two outlets before lunch rather than having to “make the buy” by purchasing dozens and dozens of stations acquiring spots that are cheap, bonused, thrown in, flanked, and here are some tickets.  The fix starts with raising the price to meet the public’s perception and usage levels of radio.

Walter Sabo has grown audience share for a roster of clients that has included SiriusXM Satellite Radio, RKO, ABC, Apollo Advisors, Hearst, Wall Street Journal Radio and many others. Reach him at walter@sabomedia.com. Learn about his unique radio show at www.waltersterlingshow.com

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

PodcastOne president and co-founder Kit Gray will present at the ThinkEquity Conference on Thursday, October 19 at 4:00 pm ET. The event will be held in-person at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in New York City and Gray will meet with professional investors throughout the day.

Ingstad Family Media’s news/talk KNUJ/K247CU, New Ulm, Minnesota adds the GCN-syndicated “Dr. Daliah Wachs Show” to its lineup airing 1:00 am to 4:00 am ET.

Boston-based public media firm GBH is covering the Worcester, Massachusetts mayoral race with a debate live from the organization’s Worcester bureau on Monday (10/16) at 6:00 pm. Reporter Sam Turken will moderate an open-format debate among the five candidates. The debate will be broadcast as a video livestream on the GBH News website and the GBH News YouTube channel.

WJCT Public Media names Anne Schindler permanent host of the flagship daily public affairs program “First Coast Connect” on WJCT-FM, Jacksonville “News 89.9,” effective October 30. , 2023. Schindler is a producer, journalist, and editor who has served as executive producer of special projects for “First Coast News” and editor-in-chief of Folio Weekly.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (10/11) Top News/Talk Media Stories

Republicans nominate Steve Scalise to be the next Speaker of the House; the Israel-Hamas war and the controversy over Americans voicing support for Palestinians in Gaza; pressure on President Joe Biden to freeze Iranian assets in response to the Hamas attacks on Israel; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the 2024 presidential race; the Supreme Court hears arguments in the South Carolina redistricting case; new charges against Congressman George Santos and his tenuous hold on his seat; the ongoing UAW strike against the big three U.S. automakers; and the $1.72 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

NYTimes: Radio Preferred Medium for Many in India

A piece in The New York Times by Karan Deep Singh that explores how radio is used by women in rural India to learn and to communicate shows just how important the medium is to many people in the world’s most populous country. The piece focuses on the community radio station “Alfaz-e-Mewat,” – the voice of the Mewati people. Singh notes that “even in a digital era, radio remains the preferred medium for millions of Indians.” Of the radio station he writes, “Its listeners are the million or so people of Nuh, a rural, agrarian district in the foothills of the Aravali mountains in the northern Indian state of Haryana. In this region — which has some of the country’s lowest female literacy rates, where early marriages are common and where violence against women is the norm — the station is the voice of change.” TALKERS founder Michael Harrison, who was recently appointed by UNESCO as executive advisor to the United Nations celebration of World Radio Day on February 13, 2024, states, “This story illustrates just how important the medium of on-air radio is to millions of people around the world. Not only for its accessibility in the many places on Earth, including the United States, that are not fully digitized – but as a grassroots weapon against poverty and injustice in all their many forms. What could be more important?” Read the Times piece here.

Industry News

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

The Israel-Hamas war and the political repercussions in the U.S.; the vacant House Speaker post and the renewed threat of a government shutdown; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the 2024 presidential race; new felony charges against U.S. Rep. George Santos; Kari Lake announces bid for Arizona U.S. Senate seat; California’s new forced treatment law affecting the “gravely disabled”; the Supreme Court hears arguments in the South Carolina redistricting case; and the $1.7 billion Powerball jackpot were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry Views

Pending Business: In Radio Sales, It Pays to Be a Great Listener

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

Do you still struggle with keeping the dialogue moving in the right direction on your sales calls? Let’s face it, if you are not careful you could violate one of the golden rules of selling talk radio – be a great listener.

First calls are the most difficult, especially in this era of Zoom, Teams, etc. You try your best to develop rapport, build chemistry and move through a needs analysis as you learn about your potential advertiser. High achieving sellers have that special skill of blending questions and fun facts that build common ground while navigating the needs analysis through a range of questions designed to qualify the prospect and confirm a follow-up call.

Sounds simple enough, but why do most sellers fall short in the starting blocks. There is no mystery here to solve, this is Selling 101 that starts with preparation and ends with a commission check. Let’s walk through some start points:

If you are responsible for any of the 26.5 billion minutes viewed of “Suits” on Netflix, you know that Harvey Spector (lead character) earned millions doing homework and knowing how to ask the right questions. How about you? Are you prepared to ask the right questions and listen to the answers that will lead you to comeback with the right proposal? Sometimes keeping the dialogue moving can be challenging. Perhaps you’ve asked too many questions that went nowhere or just resulted in one-word answers. What to do? A recent article in Make It quoted Matt Abrahams, a public speaking expert at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business, who suggests saying, “Tell me more” during a conversation is the secret sauce behind improving the communication flow.

Makes sense. Showing genuine interest in what your advertiser is saying, allowing more information to be shared, with you spending more time as the listener helps everyone develop better rapport and move closer to a win-win. I have always been a big fan of another Golden Rule of Sales: “Words matter.” Have you ever finished a call and asked yourself, “Why did I say that!?” It all goes back to preparation. If you know what to ask, how to allow your advertiser to expand on a key point, and do more listening than talking, your sales should increase, and your commission checks will show it!

Steve Lapa is the president of Lapcom Communications Corp. based in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Lapcom is a media sales, marketing, and development consultancy. Contact Steve Lapa via email at: Steve@Lapcomventures.com.

Industry News

KYW, Philadelphia to Broadcast Mayoral Debate

Audacy’s all-news KYW-AM/FM, Philadelphia is hosting a mayoral debate ahead of the Philadelphia general election. Democratic nominee Cherelle Parker will face Republican nominee David Oh live on the “Philadelphia’s Morning News” program on October 26 from 8:00 am to 9:00 am. The debate will feature KYW journalists, including morning drive anchor Ian Bush, city hall bureau chief Pat Loeb,im education reporter Mike DeNardo and community impact reporter Racquel Williams. KYW news director Kevin McCorry says, “Since the primary election was decided in May, we have been working diligently to ensure that we could provide this service to our audience. The next mayor of Philadelphia will shape our city for years to come. We need urgent solutions to the city’s most pressing issues, including the gun violence crisis, the opioid crisis, the economy and public schooling. Presenting a format where candidates get to exchange ideas in real time is a fundamental building block of the democratic process, and we’re proud to break our normal format to offer this program.”

Ratings Takeaways

September 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

imSeptember 2023 PPM Data – Information for the September 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 September 2023 sweep covered August 17 – September 13.

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 August 2023 – September 2023 (6+).

Note: The NFL season began September 7 – applicable flagships are bolded. 

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media Group’s KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 3.3 – 3.4, +.1, #12 to #10

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas’ KUT 6.1 – 5.3, -.8, repeats in third-place

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media Group adult hits KBPA, ninth month in succession, 9.7 – 9.6, -.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: triple A KUTX (+.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk KUT (-.8) 

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 9.2 – 9.4, +.2, repeats in the runner-up slot

News: Capitol Broadcasting-owned WRAL-HD3 “WRAL News+” .1 – .3, +.2, #16 to #15

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” 2.3 – 3.1, +.8, ninth to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 9.5 – 9.1, -.4, first to third

Number One 6+: Urban One urban AC WFXC, first month, 8.5 – 10.1, +1.6

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WRAL (+1.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WQOK (-2.2)**

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

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Urban One’s WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 6.0 – 6.1, +.1, repeats in fourth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” (Colts) 2.8 – 3.5, +.7, #15 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting’s WFYI 6.3 – 6.4, +.1, third straight month in third-place

Number One 6+: Urban One adult contemporary WYXB, first month, 6.9 – 8.2, +1.3

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WYXB (+1.3)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: hot AC WNTR (-1.0)

MILWAUKEE 

News/Talk: Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Brewers) 8.7 – 9.8, +1.1, third to first 

iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 10.7 – 9.6, -1.1, first to second

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” (Green Bay Packers) 1.4 – 2.4, +1.0, #17 to #13

Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” steady at 1.0, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 2.5 – 2.4, -.1, #14 to #13

Wisconsin Educational Communications Board’s WHAD 1.7 – 2.1, +.4, fifth straight month at #16

Number One 6+: news/talk WTMJ, first month, 8.7 – 9.8, +1.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: news/talk WTMJ (+1.1)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: news/talk WISN (-1.1)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 5.8 – 6.1, +.3, fifth to fourth

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” .9 – 1.1, +.2, #21 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” (Tennessee Titans) 4.8 – 7.2, +2.4, eighth to third    

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” 1.6 – 1.4, -.2, repeats at #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 4.2 – 5.5, +1.3, #11 to #6

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA, eighth month in succession, 10.3 – 9.3, -1.0

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk WGFX (+2.4)**

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: country WSM-FM (-2.0)

**Represents a tie for the largest August 2023 – September 2023 increase (6+) of any station in all 48 PPM-markets

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 6.8 – 6.1, -.7, fifth to sixth

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .4 – .3, -.1, third straight month at #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” 2.6 – 3.3, +.7, anchored in eighth-place for the twelfth consecutive month

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 2.6 – 2.3, -.3, eighth to tenth

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 2.0 – 1.9, -.1, #11 to #12

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 1.4 – 1.5, +.1, fifth straight month at #14

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WCAI .1, #19 (did not appear in August 2023)

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI, third month in a row, 9.7 – 10.9, +1.2

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: country WCTK (+1.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: news/talk WPRO-AM (-.7)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 3.1 – 3.5, +.4, fifth consecutive month at #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group-owned WVSP “Sports Radio 94.1 ESPN” 2.6 – 2.7, +.1, #14 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, eighth straight month, 11.3 – 10.2, -1.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: rhythmic CHR WNVZ (+.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: country WUSH (-1.2)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 6.5 – 8.2, +1.7, fifth to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.2 – 2.6, -.6, repeats at #12

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WJGL, first month, 9.1 – 10.6, +1.5

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: news/talk WOKV-FM (+1.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: rock WWJK (-1.1)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 1.8 – 1.9, +.1, repeats in tenth-place

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 1.6 -1.8, +.2, repeats at #12

WZZR cluster-mate WJNO “News Radio 1290” 1.3 – 1.1, -.2, third straight month at #14

News: None in the top twenty

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

Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” .4 – .2, -.2, #18 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 2.3 – 2.6, +.3, ninth to eighth

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting classic hits-oldies WEAT, third month in a row, 9.2 – 7.9, -1.3

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: hot AC WRMF (+1.3)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WEAT (-1.3)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 4.7 – 4.5, -.2, locked in eighth-place for the eleventh straight month

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 2.8 – 3.5, +.7, repeats in ninth-place

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC flat at 1.4, sixth straight month at #13

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WQMG, first month, 11.2 – 13.6, +2.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: urban AC WQMG (+2.4)**

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: country WPAW (-1.2)

**Represents a tie for the largest August 2023 – September 2023 increase (6+) of any station in all 48 PPM-markets

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.0 – 2.1, +.1, repeats in ninth-place

Starnes Media Group-owned KWAM “News Talk Memphis The Mighty 990” .2 – .4, +.2, #15 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” 2.8 – 2.4, -.4, seventh to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.8 – 1.7, -.1, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS, seventh straight month, 12.9 – 11.8, -1.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WHRK and CHR WEGR (+1.5)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WRVR (-1.7)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 4.8 – 5.2, +.4, seventh to sixth

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” 1.5 – 2.3, +.8, #14 to #12

WTIC-AM’s internet stream flat at .8, third straight month at #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 1.3 – 1.7, +.4, repeats at #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 4.0 – 3.7, -.3, repeats in ninth-place

New England Public Media’s WFCR flat at .6, fourth straight month at #18

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 44th month in a row, 10.1 – 10.5, +.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: news/talk WDRC-AM (+.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: country WWYZ (-1.1)

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

Industry News

LABF to Present Webinar Series

The Library of American Broadcasting Foundation is presenting a webinar series titled “LABF Radio & Podcast Power Session.” The series was created by Benztown president and LABF board member Dave “Chachi” Denes with support from the Broadcast Education Association (BEA) and theim University of Maryland. Industry experts presenting in the three-part series include: programming with consultant Mike McVay; promotion and marketing insight with Benztown marketing director Susan Aksu-Magarian; and behind the scenes of owning a station with Emmis CEO Jeff Smulyan, among others. Denes says, “I was honored to lead the ‘LABF Radio & Podcasting Power Session,’ and I want to thank the incredible talent and executives that participated for their contributions and presentations as well as technical producers, Robby Gessel and Trevor Adams. We have high hopes that this session will prove valuable to students and ignite their enthusiasm for the radio and podcasting mediums that hold a special place in our hearts.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories for Week of October 2 – 6, 2023

The ouster of Kevin McCarthy as Speaker of the U.S. House was the most-talked-about story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the legal battles of former President Donald Trump, followed by the 2024 presidential race at #3. 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 magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See the complete chart here.

Ratings Takeaways

September 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Three

imSeptember 2023 PPM Data – Information for the September 2023 ratings period has been released for Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus.

Nielsen Audio’s September 2023 sweep covered August 17 – September 13.

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 August 2023 – September 2023 (6+).

Note: The NFL season began September 7 – flagships are bolded, where applicable.

PORTLAND

News/Talk: Alpha Media’s KXL “FM 101 News” flat at 6.7, repeats in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB 6.1 – 6.3, +.2, repeats in fourth-place

KOPB’s internet stream 1.7 – 20, +.3, #20 to #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLTH, first month, 8.7 – 8.5, -.2

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: triple A KINK and hot AC KRSK (+.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KKCW (-2.0)*

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

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk: Urban One-owned WBT-AM & WBT-FM “Charlotte’s News Talk” 6.4 – 5.2, -1.2, third to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One’s WFNZ-FM “Sports Radio 92.7” 1.8 – 2.4, +.6, #16 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: University Radio Foundation’s WFAE 4.6 – 5.2, +.6, sixth to fifth

South Carolina Educational Television Commission-owned WNSC .5 – 1.0, +.5, #20 to #18

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group country WSOC, first month, 7.2 – 7.4, +.2

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk WFNZ and public radio news/talk WFAE (+.6)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: news/talk WBT-AM & WBT-FM (-1.2) 

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk:  iHeartMedia’s WOAI “News Radio 1200” 2.4 – 2.6, +.2, #17 to #15

Alpha Media-owned KTSA “Stay Connected” 2.6 – 2.2, -.4, #15 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM, ninth consecutive month, 8.6 – 7.1, -1.5

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: classic rock KTKX (+.6)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KONO-FM (-1.5)

SACRAMENTO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM “News 1530 AM & 93.1 FM” 9.7 – 10.1, +.4, #1

KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM cluster-mate KSTE-AM “Talk 650” 3.7 – 3.3, -.4, #10 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KHTK “Sacramento Sports 1140” .8 – 1.1, +.3, #24 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Capital Public Radio-owned KXJZ 2.3 – 1.9, -.4, #14 to #15

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia news/talk KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM, third month in a row, 9.7 – 10.1, +.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: urban-rhythmic oldies KHYL (+1.3)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KBEB (-1.0)

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk: Audacy’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020 AM” 3.8 – 4.0, +.2, #10 (third straight month)

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan All Sports All The Time” (Pirates) 6.8 – 7.9, +1.1, fourth to third

Public Radio News/Talk: Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting’s WESA 4.6 – 4.1, -.5, repeats in eighth-place

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW, tenth month in a row, 11.4 – 11.2, -.2

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk KDKA-FM (+1.1)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk WESA and classical WQED (-.5)

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” 4.9 – 5.2, +.3, repeats in fifth-place

iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM “Talk Radio” 3.4 – 4.0, +.6, #11 to #9

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Utah’s KUER 2.6 – 2.5, -.1, repeats at #17

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KSFI, eleventh straight month, 10.8 – 10.3, -.5

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: rock KBER (+1.2)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: hot AC KJMY (-1.0) 

LAS VEGAS

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KMXB-HD3 “101.5 K-Dawn The Talk Of Las Vegas” 1.1 – 1.9, +.8, #26 to #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE, third month in succession, 9.3 – 9.5, +.2

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: Spanish adult hits KWID and classic rock KXPT (+1.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: CHR KLUC (-1.2)

ORLANDO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKS “Real Radio 104.1” 4.4 – 4.6, +.2, seventh to eighth

Cox Media Group-owned WDBO “Orlando’s News Talk” steady at 3.4, #13 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WYGM “96.9 The Game” 1.4 – 1.1, -.3, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Community Connections-owned WMFE 2.9 – 2.4, -.5, #14 to #15

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMGF, fourth consecutive month, 9.1 – 10.1, +1.0

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: Spanish tropical WRUM (+1.4)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: alternative WQMP (-1.0)

CINCINNATI

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WLW “700 Cincinnati’s News Radio” (Reds, Bengals) 14.0 – 13.9, -.1, #1

WLW’s cluster-mate WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” 4.4 – 4.6, +.2, repeats in sixth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WCKY “ESPN 1530” (Bengals) 1.2 – 1.6, +.4, #20 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Cincinnati Public Radio’s WVXU 4.0 – 3.6, -.4, eighth to ninth

Number One 6+: news/talk WLW, 20th consecutive month, 14.0 – 13.9, -.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: rock WEBN (+1.2)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: rhythmic hot AC WREW (-.9)

CLEVELAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTAM “News Radio 1100” (Guardians) 5.5 – 6.1, +.6, eighth to seventh

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” (Browns) 4.0 – 5.1, +1.1, #11 to #10

WKRK’s internet stream .5 – .8, +.3, #18 to #17

iHeartMedia-owned WARF “Fox Sports 1350 AM The Gambler” .2 – .3, +.1, repeats at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Kent State University’s WKSU 5.2 – 4.9, -.3, #9 to #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI, eleventh month in a row, 10.5 – 11.8, +1.3

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WMJI +1.3)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: rock WMMS (-1.1)

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KMBZ-FM “98.1 FM News, Traffic, Weather” flat at 5.1, third to fourth

KMBZ-FM cluster-mate KMBZ-AM “Talk 980 AM” 1.3 – 1.2, -.1, repeats at #19

Cumulus Media’s KCMO-AM “Talk Radio 710 AM” unchanged at 1.0, #22 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KCSP “Sports Radio 610 Our Teams, Our Town” (Royals) 2.7 – 3.1, +.4, #13 (third successive month)

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KCUR 3.5 – 3.2, -.3, #10 to #12

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies KCMO-FM, second straight month, 10.6 – 9.8, -.8

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian KJNW (+.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: country KBEQ (-1.1)

COLUMBUS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WTVN “News Radio 610” 7.4 – 7.3, -.1, second to fourth    

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Tegna-owned WBNS-FM “97.1 FM The Fan” 5.6 – 7.9, +2.3, fifth to second

Public Radio News/Talk: Ohio State University’s WOSU 4.4 – 4.5, +.1, ninth to eighth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia country WCOL, eleventh straight month, 10.4 – 9.8, -.6

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk WBNS-FM (+2.3)**

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WSNY (-.9)

**Represents the largest August 2023 – September 2023 increase (6+) of any station from the 36 PPM-markets analyzed thus far

Up next: September 2023 overviews for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.

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

Industry News

AWM Announces Gracies Leadership Awards Honorees

The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) announces the distinguished recipients of the 2023 Gracies Leadership Awards, celebrating the remarkable achievements and groundbreaking contributions of women in leadership. The awards luncheon will take place at Tribeca 360° in New York on Monday,im November 13. This year’s honorees include: Rebekah Dopp, EVP of distribution, acquisitions and affiliate relations, The CW; Rosalyn Durant, EVP, programming and acquisitions, ESPN; Suzanne Grimes, president Westwood One and EVP corporate marketing, Cumulus Media; Rashida Jones, president, MSNBC; Susan Larkin, COO, Audacy; and Lori Locke, EVP and chief accounting officer,Warner Bros. Discovery. Additionally, AWM will recognize Kay Olin, owner and president of Olin and Associates, and former president of Local Focus, with the Legacy Leadership Award.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (10/4) Top News/Talk Media Stories

The House Speaker vacancy after Kevin McCarthy ouster; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the U.S. migrant crisis and President Joe Biden’s move to continue building a wall in South Texas; the 2024 presidential race; the Kaiser Permanente and UAW strikes; the Biden administration’s efforts to aid Ukraine against Russia; the state of the U.S. economy and recent financial markets activities; and the $1.4 billion Powerball jackpot for Saturday’s drawing were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

September 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

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

Nielsen Audio’s September 2023 sweep covered August 17 – September 13.

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 August 2023 – September 2023 (6+).

Note: The NFL season began September 7 – flagships are bolded, where applicable.

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 3.5 – 3.9, +.4, repeats in seventh-place

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 9.3 – 8.7, -.6, ensconced in the runner-up slot for the ninth straight month

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” (Nationals) steady at 2.6, #16 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU 11.6 – 12.0, +.4, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, 22nd month in succession, 11.6 – 12.0, +.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian WGTS (+1.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WKYS (-.7)

BOSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” 3.5 – 2.8, -.7, #12 to #15

News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” 4.2 – 3.8, -.4, eighth to tenth

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (New England Patriots) 5.6 – 7.8, +2.2, third to first

Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” (Red Sox) 3.7 – 4.2, +.5, #11 to #9

Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 5.6 – 5.4, -.2, repeats in third-place

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.9 – 3.6, -.3, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group sports talk WBZ-FM, first month, 5.6 – 7.8, +2.2*

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk WBZ-FM (+2.2)*

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WROR (-1.5)

*Represents a tie for the largest August 2023 – September 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 – and the previous 12 – PPM-markets

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 3.9 – 3.8, -.1, repeats in eighth-place

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group urban AC WHQT, seventh straight month, 7.9 – 8.0, +.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: Spanish contemporary WAMR (+1.9)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WMIB (-.8)

SEATTLE

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” (Seahawks) steady at 4.7, seventh to sixth

News: Lotus Communications-owned KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM “Northwest News Radio” 2.0 – 2.2, +.2, #19 to #20

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” (Mariners, Seahawks) 4.7 – 6.0, +1.3, seventh to third

iHeartMedia’s KJR-FM “93.3 FM Seattle’s Sports Leader” 2.4 – 2.3, -.1, #17 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio-owned KUOW 6.8 – 5.9, -.9, second to fourth

Number One 6+: Audacy country KKWF, fourth straight month, 7.9 – 6.8, -1.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: rhythmic hot AC KHTP (+1.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KSWD (-1.2) 

DETROIT

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, #16 to #17

News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” flat at 4.0, repeats at #11

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Tigers, Lions) 7.2 – 8.6, +1.4, second to first 

WXYT-FM’s internet stream 1.3 – 2.0, +.7, #19 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 1.6 – 1.8, +.2, continues at #17

Wayne State University’s WDET 1.0 – 1.1, +.1, #21 to #20

Number One 6+: sports talk WXYT-FM, first month, 7.2 – 8.6, +1.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk WXYT-FM (+1.4)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: CHR WKQI (-.8)

PHOENIX 

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” 3.9 – 4.1, +.2, tenth to fifth

Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” (Arizona Cardinals) 3.0 – 2.9, -.1, #15 for the third straight month

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College-owned KJZZ 4.1 – 3.9, -.2, seventh to sixth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KESZ, first month, 6.1 – 7.5, +1.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KESZ (+1.4)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KAZG (-1.7)

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” (Minnesota Twins) 3.5 – 3.3, -.2, #14 to #12

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KTMY “My Talk 107.1” 2.2 – 2.3, +.1, #16 for the fourth straight month

iHeartMedia’s KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” 1.3 – 1.4, +.1, #19 for the third month in succession

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” (Minnesota Vikings) 4.8 – 8.8, +2.0, ninth to fourth

Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW flat at 6.2, fourth to fifth

Number One 6+: Northwestern Media contemporary Christian KTIS-FM, sixth consecutive month, 10.7 – 10.1, -.6

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk KFXN (+2.0)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: hot AC KTCZ and country KMNB (-.7)

SAN DIEGO 

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” steady at 4.7, seventh to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” (Padres), 4.9 – 4.7, -.2, sixth to fifth

Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 5.8 – 6.2, +.4, repeats in third-place

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KXSN, first month, 6.5 – 6.8, +.3

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: Spanish contemporary XRST (+1.0)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult hits KFBG (-2.1)**

**Represents a tie for the largest August 2023 – September 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 – and the previous 12 – PPM-markets 

TAMPA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” 5.2 – 5.3, +.1, repeats in fifth-place

iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” 4.3 – 4.0, -.3, #8 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” (Rays) 1.8 – 2.0, +.2 #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 2.2 – 2.3, +.1, #19 to #17

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, 26th month in a row, 7.8 – 8.0, +.2

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: country WQYK (+1.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: country WFUS (-1.5)

DENVER 

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOA “News Radio 850” (Colorado Rockies, Broncos) 2.7 – 3.7, +1.0, #16 to #13

KOA cluster-mate KDFD “Freedom 93.7” 2.0 – 1.7, -.3, #20 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” 3.8 – 4.6, +.8, #11 to #7

Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 4.0 – 4.2, +.2, tenth to ninth

Number One 6+: Bonneville country KYGO, second consecutive month, 6.6 – 6.2, -.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KOSI (+1.0)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: hot AC KIMN and sports talk KKSE (-.7)

BALTIMORE

News/Talk: Hearst Television’s WBAL “News Radio 1090 AM & 101.5 FM” (Orioles, Ravens) 3.2 – 4.1, +.9, #12 to #8

WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” 1.5 – 1.8, +.3, repeats at #18

News: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” .9 – 1.0, +.1, #21 to #19

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” 4.4 – 4.0, -.4, eighth to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 4.4 – 4.5, +.1, eighth to seventh

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WLIF, first month, 6.4 – 8.6, +2.2

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLIF (+2.2)*

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: urban AC WHUR (-.8)

*Represents a tie for the largest August 2023 – September 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 – and the previous 12 – PPM-markets

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” (Cardinals) 5.9 – 5.8, -.1, sixth to eighth

KMOX cluster-mate KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 1.8 – 1.9, +.1, repeats at #16

iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-FM “104.9 The Patriot” .9 – 1.0, +.1, #18 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” 2.4 – 2.3, -.1, repeats at #15

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 3.6 – 3.5, -.1, #12 to #13

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLOU, first month, 9.0 – 8.7, -.3

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: urban AC WFUN (+1.2)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult hits WARH (-2.1)**

**Represents a tie for the largest August 2023 – September 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 – and the previous 12 – PPM-markets

Up next: September 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

Benztown and Envisionwise are hosting a free webinar for radio professionals titled, “Keeping it Real in the Digital Age,” with host Mike McVay, president of McVay Media, and guests Jackie Parks, founder/CEO of Envisionwise; Peter Smyth, former chairman and CEO of Greater Media, Inc; and Sheri Lynch, co-host of “The Bob & Sheri Show.” The 45-minute webinar on Friday (10/6) at 1:00 pm ET will provide specific tools and strategies for increasing stations’ digital revenue. You can register here.

Audacy announces an expansion of its relationship with Puck and the launch of “About a Boy: The Story of Vladimir Putin” – a five-part documentary podcast series exploring the forces that shaped Russian President Vladimir Putin’s childhood (and life) and why it’s critical to understanding what he might do next in the war against Ukraine. The series is written and narrated by Julia Ioffe, Puck founding partner and Washington correspondent, and one of the leading journalists covering Russia and Putin.

Salem Media Group says “Grace and Truth with Owen Strachan” is joining the Salem Podcast Network. Owen Strachan is provost and research professor of Theology at Grace Bible Theological Seminary and is the author of 20 books, including his latest, The War on Men: Why Society Hates Them and Why We Need Them (Salem Books, 2023). Salem SVP of spoken word Phil Boyce comments, “Salem Podcast Network continues to add multi-talented podcasters who share our worldview. Owen is an amazing voice for what is true and right in America, and adding him to our platform is a home run. I can’t wait to become a regular listener when he gets started.”

iHeartPodcasts announces the return of the “Work in Progress” podcast for its third season. The program features actor, producer, and activist Sophia Bush and in the first two episodes she interviews former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki along with an interview with actor Matthew McConaughey.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (10/3) Top News/Talk Media Stories

Congressman Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) is removed as Speaker of the House; the legal battles facing former President Donald Trump and the gag orders imposed on him; the 2024 presidential race; the weapons charges against Hunter Biden; the U.S. migrant crisis; President Joe Biden’s push for more aid to Ukraine; and the U.S. economy and financial markets activity were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

September 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

imSeptember 2023 PPM Data – Information for the September 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 (New Jersey).

Nielsen Audio’s September 2023 sweep covered August 17 – September 13.

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 August 2023 – September 2023 (6+).

Note: The NFL season began September 7 (flagships are bolded).

NEW YORK

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.4 – 1.2, -.2, #21 to #19

Red Apple Media‘s WABC-AM 3.1 — 3.4, +.3, #10 to #11

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 4.9 – 4.6, -.3, seventh to fifth

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) steady at 2.5, #13 to #10

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees, Giants) 2.9 – 3.1, +.2, #12 to #9

Good Karma Brands‘  WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Jets) flat at 1.1 #23 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.1 – 3.6, +.5, tenth to eighth

WNYC-FM cluster-mate WNYC-AM 1.3 – 1.4, +.1, #22 to #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, eleventh month in a row, 8.1 – 7.3, -.8

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk WNYC-FM (+.5)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW (-.8)

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” flat at 4.8, third to fourth

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 2.9 – 3.7, +.8, #12 to #8

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.0 – 2.1, +.1, repeats at #20

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KRTH, seventh month in succession, 6.4 – 6.1, -.3

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: news KNX (+.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: Spanish contemporary KLLI (-.7)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” 3.0 – 3.4, +.4, #11 to #8

News: Audacy’s WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 4.6 – 4.9, +.3, fourth to third

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WSCR “670 The Score” (Cubs) 3.0 – 3.2, +.2, stays at #11

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media’s WBEZ 2.9 – 3.0, +.1, remains at #13  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, twelfth straight month, 7.7 – 6.8, -.9 and Hubbard Broadcasting classic rock WDRV, first month, 6.2 – 6.8, +.6

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: hot AC WTMX (+.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLIT (-.9)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” steady at 2.0, #18 to #16

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” unchanged at 7.1, anchored in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants, 49ers) 3.6 – 3.7, +.1, eighth to seventh

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED flat at 5.3, repeats in third-place  

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, sixth month in succession, 8.0 – 8.4, +.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: CHR KMVQ (+.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KSOL (-.7)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 4.3 – 4.6, +.3, fourth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” 4.4 – 4.7, +3, repeats in third-place

Audacy-owned KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Texas Rangers, Cowboys) 2.7 – 2.9, +.2, #17 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting’s KERA 2.8 – 2.7, -.1, #15 to #16

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KSPF, fourth month in a row, flat at 4.9, and Cumulus Media country KPLX, first month, 4.1 – 4.9, +.8

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian KLTY (+1.2)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary KKDA-FM (-.7)

HOUSTON 

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) flat at 3.7, repeats at #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF 2.3 – 2.2, -.1, continues at #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA second month in a row, 7.5 – 7.9, +.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: alternative KTBZ (+.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KLTN (-.6)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 6.6 – 7.3, +.7, locked in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Falcons) steady at 2.8, #15 to #14

Dickey Broadcasting’s WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) 2.5 – 1.5, -1.0, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools’ WABE 3.7 – 3.5, -.2, #10 to #12

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, ninth successive month, 9.2 – 7.9, -1.3

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: classic rock WNNX (+1.0)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WSRV (-1.3)*

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

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: Audacy’s WPHT “Talk Radio 1210” 1.2 – 1.5, +.3, #22 to #19

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 4.6 – 5.8, +1.2, ninth to fifth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies, Eagles) 5.5 – 5.8, +.3, fourth to fifth

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 3.8 – 3.6, -.2, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic rock WMGK, fifth straight month, 9.5 – 10.1, +.6

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: news KYW (+1.2)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult hits WBEN-FM (-1.1)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 1.8 – 3.9, +2.1, #18 to #8

News: Audacy-owned WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 4.7 – 4.0, -.7, third to seventh

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.3 – 2.5, +.2, #17 to #14

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees, Giants) 3.5 – 3.8, +.3, eighth to tenth

Good Karma-owned WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Jets) steady at 1.7, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, seventh month in a row, 7.1 – 8.0, +.9

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: news/talk WABC (+2.1)**

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: news WINS and Spanish tropical WSKQ (-.7)

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

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, .5 – .4, -.1, #18 to #19

Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC flat at .2, repeats at #20

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, sixth straight month, unchanged at 9.9

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: urban-rhythmic oldies KDAY (+1.0)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KSCA (-.4)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.5 – 6.6, +.1, #1 

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants, 49ers) 5.5 – 4.8, -.7, repeats in fourth-place

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” 1.7 – 2.2, +.5, #19 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: news KCBS-AM & KFRC, third month in a row, 6.5 – 6.6, +.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: 1980s-based KOSF (+.9)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: classic rock KUFX (-1.0) 

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 5.5 – 5.2, -.3, third to fourth   

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 2.0 – 2.1, +.1, #12 to #13

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 1.0 – 1.2, +.2, #19 to #17

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees, Giants) 3.3 – 4.1, +.8, ninth to eighth

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Jets) 1.0 – .9, -.1, remains at #19

WFAN’s internet stream 1.2 – .8, -.4, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic rock WAXQ, third straight month, 6.7 – 6.3, -.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk WFAN (+.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW (-.8)

Up next: September 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

Dallas Sports Radio Host and Producer Mark Friedman Dies

Longtime Dallas sports radio host and producer Mark “Friedo” Friedman has died after a years-long health battle. The Morning News piece notes that Friedman “spent over two decades working in Dallasim sports radio, starting at 570 KLIF in 1994 and eventually joining host Norm Hitzges in moving to 1310 The Ticket [KTCK-AM] in 2000.” Friedman’s brother Joel posted the news of his passing on Facebook, says, “It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of my brother’s passing. Many of you knew about his health battle over the past several years, and he had been doing remarkably well considering everything he had gone through.” Read the Dallas Morning News story here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (10/2) Top News/Talk Media Stories

Congressman Matt Gaetz’s efforts to strip Kevin McCarthy of his House Speaker position; the Trump Organization fraud trial; the 2024 presidential race; Hunter Biden to be arraigned on gun charges; the U.S. migrant crisis; President Joe Biden’s push for more aid to Ukraine; and a nine-year-old girl is found safe after being kidnapped for ransom at an upstate New York campground were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

iHeartMedia Names Terry Foxx Director of Talk for San Antonio and Austin

iHeartMedia appoints Terry Foxx to the position of director of talk programming for San Antonio and Austin. He was most recently director of programming and audience for the University of Texas’ public media outlet KUT-FM, Austin. iHeartMedia says, “As director of talk programming, Terry Foxx will beim responsible for redefining ‘News Radio 1200’ WOAI, ‘Ticket 760, and AM 1300 The Zone’s on-air experience by synergizing with local talent to deliver unparalleled talk, news, and sports broadcasts. As the flagship broadcast partner for the San Antonio Spurs, University of Texas and ‘The Joe Pags Show,’ among others, Terry will deepen these partnerships to offer exclusive content, ensuring the stations remain the region’s primary touchpoint for sports, news, and insightful commentary.” iHeartMedia San Antonio & Austin SVP of programming Jason McCollim says, “In Terry Foxx, we’ve found more than an expert, we’ve embraced a true team player who values respect as deeply as we do. His commitment to bettering our processes is evident, but it’s his unique blend of diplomacy, empathy, and patience in every interaction that truly sets him apart. With Terry, it’s not just about work, it’s about building lasting relationships.”

Industry News

Audacy Provides Update on Capital Structure

Audacy issues a statement regarding its ongoing discussions with lenders to refinance its debt and “optimize the Company’s balance sheet to position the Company for long-term growth, capitalizing on its scaled leadership position across the audio market.” Audacy is employing the 30-day grace period for the cash interest payment of approximately $18 million, due on September 30, 2023, to holders of itsim 6.75% senior secured second-lien Notes due March 31, 2029. The decision to use the grace period will not trigger an event of default under the indenture governing the Notes, and the Company retains the right to make the interest payment to the holders of the Notes through the end of the grace period. Audacy says it intends to utilize the 30-day grace period to continue its dialogue with lenders “regarding a potential plan to strengthen its capital structure to support Audacy’s strong operating business and position Audacy for long-term growth.” Audacy chairman, president and CEO David Field comments, “We continue to engage in discussions with our lenders as we execute on our overall growth strategy and remain focused on investing in our people, platform, content and technology capabilities to serve our listeners and customers. We continue to drive progress across our key performance metrics, meaningfully advance our ad tech and product roadmap and enter new partnerships to enhance content, distribution and monetization opportunities.”

Industry News

15th Annual “Hurley in the Morning” Charity Dinner & Silent Auction Succeeds in Spite of Weather in AC

im

One of the most respected and impactful local talk radio-related charities in America – Townsquare Media-owned WPG, Atlantic City, NJ host Harry Hurley’s “Hurley in the Morning Charity Dinner & Silent Auction” – took place Friday evening (9/29) at the Resorts Casino Hotel’s iconic Ocean Ballroom. This marks the 15th installment of one of the Garden State’s most important annual civic events. More than 263 paid guests attended including a who’s who of elected officials, business leaders and broadcast industry luminaries as well as various members of the community. FOX News Radio and FOX News Channel superstar Brian Kilmeade was this year’s guest of honor and keynote speaker. Kilmeade autographed copies of his soon-to-be released historical book, Teddy and Booker T.: How Two American Icons Blazed a Path for Racial Equality (Sentinel, 2023). Former State Senator Bill Gormley (R-NJ) received the event’s first-ever lifetime achievement award. Since its establishment, the Hurley in the Morning Charity Foundation has raised more than $1.3 million to help non-profit public service organizations throughout New Jersey and beyond including the Broadcasters Foundation of America. Both houses of the legislature voted to officially make this past Friday “Harry Hurley Day” in Atlantic County, New Jersey. Adding a dramatic note to the event, Kilmeade’s appearance was jeopardized at the last minute by the terrible flooding that took place in New York City that day. Hurley tells TALKERS, “The effort that Brian made to be our guest of honor and keynote speaker in the face of severe weather obstacles was truly extraordinary.” Hurley wrote the details of this experience dealing with the official state of emergency declared in New York City due to a second strike by tropical storm Ophelia in his WPG blog that you can read here. Hurley says, “Brian has materially and directly helped me to raise more than $100,000 for the Harry Hurley in the Morning Charity.” 

Industry News

Rob Brown Moves to AM Drive at “The Fan Upstate” in Greenville

Audacy’s sports talk outlet “The Fan Upstate” (WORD-AM/WFBC-HD3/W249DL/W246CV), Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina announces that “The Rob Brown Show” moves from middays to morning drive with CBS Sports Radio’s “Reiter Than You” with Bill Reiter taking over the 10:00 am to 2:00 pmim slot. Audacy Greenville-Spartanburg SVP and market manager Steve Sinicropi says, “‘The Rob Brown Show’ has been a winner in middays for ‘The Fan Upstate’ and will be even better in morning drive. Rob and Lonzo deliver an engaging, fast-paced sports talk show and are fresh off winning the best sports show in South Carolina for the second time. We’re equally as excited to debut Bill Reiter and his highly popular program to middays to carry listeners through their day. Upstate sports fans will love this new lineup and the quality sports radio content it will deliver.” This year, “The Rob Brown Show” won “Best Sports Show” at the annual State Television and Radio (STAR) Awards presented by the South Carolina Broadcasters Association.