Search Results for “ace” – Page 34 – TALKERS magazine

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

By TALKERS | October 2, 2023 by TALKERS

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 pm 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.

Amazon to Drop Sports Talk Programming

By TALKERS | October 2, 2023 by TALKERS

Amazon is dropping its 11-month-old sports talk programming on the Prime Video platform. Joe Lucia writes about the news (originally reported by The Athletic’s Richard Deitsch) at Awful Announcing. The programming streams from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. Amazon was mum about the reason for shutting it down, but as Lucia notes in his piece, “there’s so much competition in the sports talk radio space.” Read his story here.

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend

By TALKERS | October 2, 2023 by TALKERS

The late-hour deal in Congress to prevent a government shutdown; Congressman Matt Gaetz’s threat to try to remove Kevin McCarthy from his House Speaker position; the Trump Organization fraud trial in New York City; the 2024 presidential race; speculation about who California Governor Gavin Newsom will name to replace Dianne Feinstein in the U.S. Senate; the U.S. migrant crisis; and the U.S. Supreme Court returns from its summer breaks to take on cases including Second Amendment issues and more were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Top News/Talk Media Stories for Week of September 25 – 29

By TALKERS | September 29, 2023 by TALKERS

The likelihood of a government shutdown as GOP hardliners demand budget cuts was the most-talked-about story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers Ten^TM. At #2 this week was the 2024 presidential race and Wednesday’s GOP debate, followed by the UAW strike and visits to Michigan by Donald Trump and Joe Biden at #3. The Talkers Ten^TM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed in news/talk media each week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

iHeartMedia Unveils New Twin Cities Pro Basketball Deals

By TALKERS | September 28, 2023 by TALKERS

iHeartMedia Minneapolis announces new deals for streaming and radio partnerships with the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves and the WNBA’s Minnesota Lynx. As part of this multi-faceted partnership, every Timberwolves game will be available on the newly created Minnesota Timberwolves channel on the iHeartRadio app. This is the first team with an exclusive streaming channel on the iHeartRadio platform. In addition, sports talk KFXN-FM “KFAN 100.3” becomes the basketball organization’s new flagship radio station for select Timberwolves games and the majority of Lynx games. iHeartSports president Kevin LeGrett states, “We are excited about this partnership and honored to be the broadcast and streaming home of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Minnesota Lynx. We are thrilled to deliver innovative Timberwolves and Lynx coverage, programming and integrations to millions of their fans across the state and beyond!”

Yesterday’s (9/27) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | September 28, 2023 by TALKERS

Attempts to avert the looming government shutdown; the 2024 presidential race, Wednesday evening’s GOP debate and former President Donald Trump’s Michigan visit; President Joe Biden visits the UAW strikers in Detroit; the New York Trump Organization ruling; today’s expected formal opening of the impeachment inquiry into President Biden; the indictment of U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) on bribery charges; and American soldier Travis King is released by North Korea into U.S. custody were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

TALKERS to Present Webinar on Protection Against Ransomware and Other Cyber Attacks for Radio Stations and Media Companies

By TALKERS | September 28, 2023September 28, 2023 by TALKERS

Ransomware, the most common cyberattack, occurs worldwide more than 37,000 times each hour and the “Business Email Compromise,” a common scam targeting companies, is attempted approximately 156,000 times each day. The cost of these attacks is huge financially, but the losses due to scams and cyberattacks extend far beyond the funds stolen or required to remedy the problems after they occur. Downtime, data depletion, extortion demands, funds stolen by scams, reputation damage, and loss of intellectual property are all sources of extreme damage to media companies and radio stations which can be even worse when you factor in possible legal liability for failure to comply with proper cybersecurity standards. Radio and media companies, large and small, have been particularly hard hit by this growing criminal activity in recent years.

TALKERS, in conjunction with Scamicide (www.scamicide.com), is presenting an exclusive webinar for radio and media company personnel focusing on where broadcasters are vulnerable and steps that should be taken to become more secure as well as comply with federal regulations. The 90-minute webinar will take place on Friday, October 20 at 2:00 pm ET.

This information-packed session will be conducted by Scamicide founder and TALKERS legal editor Steven J.J. Weisman, Esq. According to Weisman, “When it comes to the danger radio stations and media companies face from scams and cyberattacks, things aren’t as bad as you think. They are far worse.”

Weisman continues, “Your companies are further vulnerable through the many ‘Internet of Things’ devices, such as your internet connected copier and other devices, remote workers and third-party vendors, all of which become attack vectors. Making the situation even worse is the business model of sophisticated cybercriminals who sell and lease on the ‘Dark Web’ the complex malware they create to less sophisticated cybercriminals and now, through AI and deep fakes, cyberattacks and scams have become more effective.”

Steve Weisman is an attorney and a college professor at Bentley University in Boston where he teaches White Collar Crime and Media Law. He’s a prolific author and one of the country’s leading experts in scams, identity theft, and cybersecurity. Scamicide, which he founded, provides daily updated information about the latest scams, identity theft schemes and cybersecurity developments. Scamicide was named by The New York Times as one of the three best sources of information regarding COVID-related scams. Weisman is a frequent speaker and consultant regarding scams, identity theft, and cybersecurity. He was a consultant in an Equifax data breach class action and more recently advised Meta in regard to scams related to its WhatsApp app.

The cost of attending the webinar is $149 per person. Broadcasters can register by phone only with credit card. To register, call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413 or email info@talkers.com to receive a quick response.

In Pursuit of Younger Demos

By TALKERS | September 27, 2023 by TALKERS

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

The persistent liability of most talk stations is that they attract a high percentage of listeners over the age of 65. Consider that many of those older listeners are attracted to radio shows that are talking for companionship and comfort.

There are simple, tested techniques to incorporate in an on-air presentation that will appeal to a younger listener. If put on the air these tips will also enhance a station’s PPM results.

— Bumper music is unnecessary, it makes breaks seem longer. If it is necessary to use bumper music it should have been recorded after the year 2000. 2000 was obviously 23 years ago. A 35-year-old was 12 in 2000.

— Young people are busy with work, kids, life. They are attracted to radio that matches their pace. The shorter the calls, the younger the callers will be. DO NOT thank callers for holding on – that’s a screener’s job. Thank a caller for holding on and you signal that it takes a long time to get on the air. Busy people won’t call to be put on hold!

— The editorial page of any newspaper has the lowest readership. Comics, horoscope, and entertainment have the highest. Quote the editorial page and you’ll wake up grandpa and scare away the new mom. Did you know Taylor Swift has a new boyfriend?

— Everyone is attracted to mirrors of their lives. We engage with people who have similar problems with their kids, in-laws, jobs, money, car. How would you make a friend at a party? Those techniques will work for you on the air. What did your mother tell you about party talk? “Don’t talk about politics or religion, talk about the weather and the shrimp”

— The easiest way to attract younger listeners and repel older listeners is to play music on the weekend. Targeted, researched music that appeals to the exact audience age you covet. WABC features several music shows on the weekend. Sabo Media’s charter clients include “New Jersey 101.5” and “Real Radio Orlando” They air music all weekend, talk all week.

BONUS: Music on the weekend puts a station on concert, movie, music, club, and bar buys!

Just like a music station, a talk station must present a consistent package of entertainment, topics, news stories, music selection, production elements must appeal to your target listener. No wavering.

Above is a picture of two of Sterling On Sunday’s loyal listeners. Steven and Casandra of Burlington, NJ. Steven owns the bakery, Casandra works there and is a junior in college.

Walter Sabo founded Sabo Media to work with innovative media companies such as RKO, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, PARADE magazine, Pegasus, Apollo Advisers and others. He produces and hosts the successful talk show, Sterling On Sunday. Last Sunday the topics included how to know what’s in the custard in donuts.www.waltersterlingshow.com. Walter Sabo can be emailed at walter@sabomedia.com.

Yesterday’s (9/26) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | September 27, 2023 by TALKERS

The efforts in congress to avoid a looming government shutdown; the bribery allegations against U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ) and his refusal to step down; the impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden; the 2024 presidential race and tonight’s GOP candidates’ debate; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the Hunter Biden investigation; the Alabama redistricting case; the FTC and 17 states sue Amazon for monopolistic practices; the Writers Guild of America agrees to end its 148-day strike; and former White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson’s book Enough were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Pending Business: Demo Talk

By TALKERS | September 26, 2023 by TALKERS

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

Attention news/talk radio sellers! Get ready to meet your new best friend… and it is not who you think it is.

Take a guess. Could it be a mega budget opening up from an advertiser targeting 55+?

No. How about your closest competitor admitting defeat and conceding it no longer makes sense to compete?

Close, but this could be better. This is the part where your new best friend becomes such a giant ally, making your demographic pitch so valid, you are left stone-cold speechless. This is where “The Golden Bachelor” answers the double “Jeopardy” question and you could become the next Ken Jennings of news/talk radio ad sales. Give up? Here is the story line.

The New York Times article “TV Networks’ Last Best Hope: Boomers” saluted, validated, recognized, and just about honored the news/talk radio 55+ audience value proposition. We could be talking about a new day for news/talk radio sellers.

When the highly resourced sales teams from linear network TV begin telling the same demographic value story that news/talk radio sellers have been telling forever, well then, it is time to start popping the champagne in your local sales department.

It seems that linear network TV programmers are finally conceding the 60+ audience is the remaining core audience for your favorite network television programs. According to the article, franchise programs like “Grey’s Anatomy,” and “The Voice” have median viewers over 64. Wait, what? Dr. Meredith Grey and the crew at Seattle Mercy are now appealing to seniors? It may have taken 400+ episodes, but the last man standing is indeed grey! The sellers at NBC, ABC, CBS, and FOX could start singing from the same demographic page as news/talk sellers and the harmonics are sounding wonderful.

Please don’t be silly enough to think this will ever get truly competitive. No friends, this is where everyone wins if the selling stays at the value level. Media habits are changing at mach 4 speed, and nobody knows the change part of the business better than the terrestrial radio business. From fragmentation to consolidation, we’ve seen it all. Is the best yet to come?

Smart radio sales teams will embrace this opportunity. Do you still pitch the “older demo” value proposition with the anecdotal Grace Slick is 83, Mick Jagger is 80, and Elton John is 76? Time to start talking about the scene where 70-year-old Jerry Seinfeld says to 74-year-old Kramer, “I’m movin’ to Florida! You comin’ with me or not?”

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.

Sean Hannity to Moderate DeSantis-Newsom Debate

By TALKERS | September 26, 2023September 26, 2023 by TALKERS

FOX News Channel prime time star Sean Hannity will moderate a red vs. blue state debate between Florida Governor and Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis and Democrat California Governor Gavin Newsom on November 30 from a location in Georgia yet-to-be-determined. It will air from 9:00 pm to 10:30 pm ET. FNC says, “Hannity first raised the prospect of a debate with Governor Newsom during his exclusive sit-down this past June, following which, Governor DeSantis officially signed on to participate in July. This will mark the first time the two prominent governors will face off in a debate.” Hannity says, “I’m looking forward to providing viewers with an informative debate about the everyday issues and governing philosophies that impact the lives of every American.”

Yesterday’s (9/25) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | September 26, 2023 by TALKERS

The looming shutdown of the federal government; the UAW strike affecting the Big 3 auto makers; the 2024 presidential race; the impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the corruption charges against U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ); the U.S. migrant crisis; former White House aide Cassidy Hutchinson’s book Enough; and “NCIS” and “Man from U.N.C.L.E” actor David McCallum dies at 90 were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Kelsey Grammer Appears on Dom Giordano’s Jersey Shore Remote Broadcast

By TALKERS | September 25, 2023September 25, 2023 by TALKERS

Pictured above is actor Kelsey Grammer (left) with WPHT, Philadelphia talk host Dom Giordano (right) during Friday’s live broadcast of Giordano’s radio program from Mulligans Shore Bar and Grill in Wildwood, New Jersey. Grammer spent the early part of his childhood on the Jersey Shore and is a welcome visitor on his frequent trips to New Jersey’s shore towns. During Friday’s program, Giordano and Grammer talked about the fight against an offshore wind farm being spearheaded by Protect Our Coast New Jersey, Faith American Brewing Company – Grammer’s brewery on his Catskills farm, and what makes the Jersey Shore such a special place.

Former Arizona Talk Host John C. Scott Dies at 80

By TALKERS | September 25, 2023 by TALKERS

Tucson.com reports that longtime Tucson market radio personality John C. Scott died on Friday (9/22) at the age of 80. He retired from his “John C. Scott Political Forum” program on Bustos Media’s KVOI-AM in July. Scott relocated to Tucson in 1967 and worked as the news anchor for KTKT-AM. He later became for news anchor for KVOA-TV, and KOLD-TV. He also hosted a talk show on KGUN-TV. In 1972, Scott won a seat in the Arizona State Senate where he served as a Democrat for two years. Current Tucson mayoral candidate Ed Ackerley comments, “He was a progressive conservative. I know that’s an oxymoron, but I believe had the best interests of the city at heart. His overall sense was that we can all come together, work together to make Tucson a better place to live.” Read the Tucson.com obit here.

Former Radio Executive Burt Sherwood Dies at 95

By TALKERS | September 22, 2023September 22, 2023 by TALKERS

Burt Sherwood, whose long career in radio spanned over 70 years including on-air work as a WMCA, New York “Good Guy” in the station’s Top 40 days; general manager of WMAQ, Chicago during its highly rated run as a country station; general manager at WMEE/WMEF, Fort Wayne; WIBG, Philadelphia; and WNHC-AM, New Haven, died peacefully in hospice care in Sarasota, Florida yesterday (9/21). Sherwood celebrated his 95^th birthday this past May. He is survived by his wife Anne, daughter Ellen and son Jason.

Ron Sexton Cause of Death Revealed to Be Overdose

By TALKERS | September 21, 2023 by TALKERS

According to a report in the U.S. Sun, “The Bob & Tom Show” cast member and standup comic Ron Sexton died from an overdose of fentanyl and alcohol. Sexton was found unresponsive in a hotel room in Ohio while on tour doing standup as the Donnie Baker character he often played on the nationally syndicated radio show. Sexton leaves behind his wife Tracey and four children. Read the Sun story here.

ABC News’ “Reclaimed” Podcast Series Investigates Baseball’s Negro Leagues

By TALKERS | September 21, 2023 by TALKERS

ABC Audio announces this season’s six-part podcast series “Reclaimed: The Forgotten League” will debut on October 2. In this series, host Vanessa Ivy Rose traces the history of her grandfather, Norman “Turkey” Stearnes, who, along with other Black baseball players in the early 20th century, was shut out of Major League Baseball due to his race. The series explores how America’s pastime was shaped by its history of segregation and the impact Black players have had on the sport. Rose uncovers powerful stories and rarely told history by exploring her own family history and through interviews with living Negro Leagues player Ron Teasley, Negro Leagues Baseball Museum president Bob Kendrick, baseball researcher and Seamheads Negro League Database co-founder Kevin Johnson, and more.

Yesterday’s (9/20) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | September 21, 2023 by TALKERS

Criticism of President Joe Biden’s handling of the economy; the Fed keeps interest rates as they are for now; House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s attempt to avert a government shutdown; Attorney General Merrick Garland testifies before the House Judiciary Committee on the Hunter Biden investigation; the impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the 2024 presidential race; and Volodymyr Zelensky’s trip to Washington to seek more aid for Ukraine’s battle against Russia were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Todd Starnes Publishes New Political Book

By TALKERS | September 20, 2023September 21, 2023 by TALKERS

Todd Starnes, president of Starnes Media Group and a nationally syndicated talk radio personality, announces the publication of his eighth book. Titled, Twilight’s Last Gleaming: Can America Be Saved? (Post Hill Press 2023), is in the pre-order phase. The introduction to the book was written by former President Donald Trump. Starnes is available for interviews by emailing Grace Baker at grace@kwamradio.com. Starnes is a former FOX News personality whose company owns Memphis news/talk radio outlet KWAM “Mighty 990,” the flagship station for Starnes’ syndicated radio show.

“The Insiders” Launches on “ESPN 1320” in Sacramento

By TALKERS | September 19, 2023 by TALKERS

Audacy sports talker KIFM-AM, Sacramento ESPN 1320 unveils its new midday show, “The Insiders,” starring James Ham and Kyle Madson. Audacy Sacramento regional president Stacey Kauffman comments, “James Ham and Kyle Madson are two seasoned voices in the world of Sacramento sports, and their deep knowledge and passion for the local sports scene make them the perfect duo to lead this exciting new midday show. We believe ‘The Insiders’ will provide our listeners with insightful analysis, engaging conversations and a unique perspective on all things sports in Sacramento.” James Ham states, “I am extremely excited to expand my role at ‘ESPN 1320’ and give Sacramento listeners more daily local content to digest. D-Lo [Damien Barling] and KC [Kenny Caraway] have built an incredible community and platform. Adding ‘The Insiders’ show should be considered an extension of that brand. I look forward to working with Kyle Madson and am ready for the new adventure ahead.”

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | September 19, 2023 by TALKERS

Salem Media Group announces that the podcast show “Living to 100 Club,” hosted by Dr. Joseph Casciani, joins its SeniorResource.com. The program features experts on everything from nutrition and healthy lifestyle habits to modern medicine and medical advancements. Dr. Casciani says, “Psychologically, healthy aging is all about mindset, attitude, and outlook. I want my listeners to keep moving forward, no matter what gets in the way.”

Audiohook names David “DK” Krulewich its new chief revenue officer (CRO). Krulewich has experience in the audio space including in his more recent position as executive vice president of Programmatic, Podcasting, Data and Product at iHeartMedia’s Katz Digital.

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | September 15, 2023 by TALKERS

The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that the NBA’s Timberwolves will not renew their deal with Audacy’s WCCO-AM for the team’s game broadcasts beginning with this 23-24 season. Team spokeswoman Sara Perez states, “We appreciated our partnership with WCCO and the radio broadcast opportunities we were able to accomplish with them. However, we are looking forward to announcing a new radio broadcast partnership in the weeks to come.”

FOX News Channel chief political anchor Bret Baier will present an exclusive interview with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on his “Special Report” program on September 20 at 6:00 pm ET. This is bin Salman’s first interview with a major American news network since 2019. FNC says, “The pre-taped, no-holds-barred interview will cover a range of topics about the future of the kingdom and relations with the United States. Baier will anchor “Special Report” from Saudi Arabia on September 19 and 20 and present a behind-the-scenes look at the kingdom, conducting adjacent interviews with other Saudi officials as well.

Liz Truss Inks Book Deal with Salem’s Regnery Publishing

By TALKERS | September 14, 2023September 14, 2023 by TALKERS

Salem Media Group announces that its book unit Regnery Publishing signs a deal with former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss that includes the publishing of her new book, Ten Years to Save the West, scheduled to be released on April 16, 2024. The press release states, “Around the world, many supposedly conservative political parties have been captured by the same left-wing influences that set the agenda and frame the debate in so many institutions, including the media, academia and the corporate world. Drawing on her 10 years of service in Tory governments – when she often found herself to be the only conservative in the room – the scrappy champion of limited government and individual freedom exposes the threat of the massive, unaccountable administrative state and the complacent political and corporate establishment.”

Yesterday’s (9/13) News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | September 14, 2023September 14, 2023 by TALKERS

The impeachment inquiry opened into President Joe Biden over the Biden family’s business dealings; Mitt Romney won’t run for re-election to his U.S. Senate seat saying it’s time for a new generation of leaders; a judge rules the Obama-era DACA program is illegal; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the 2024 presidential race; the looming UAW strike; the Justice Department versus Google; the meeting between North Korea’s Kim Jong Un and Russia’s Vladimir Putin; and Mexico’s congress holds a hearing at which it’s presented with what are claimed to be alien mummies were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Bret Baier Signs Extension with FOX News Media

By TALKERS | September 13, 2023 by TALKERS

FOX News Media and Bret Baier agree to a multi-year contract extension that allows him to continue his roles as chief political anchor and anchor & executive editor of “Special Report.” Baier will continue to co-anchor 2024 election coverage and host “The Bret Baier Podcast” on FOX News Audio. President and executive editor Jay Wallace says, “We are thrilled to have Bret continue leading our political coverage as we head into the 2024 election season and beyond.” Baier has been the anchor of “Special Report” on FOX News Channel since January 2009, when he took over for the legendary Brit Hume who created and launched “Special Report” in 1998.

Yesterday’s (9/12) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | September 13, 2023 by TALKERS

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy opens impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden over Hunter Biden’s business dealings; North Korea’s Kim Jong Un vows “full support” for Russia during weapons talks with Vladimir Putin; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the 2024 presidential race; the U.S. migrant crisis; the search for escaped killer Danelo Cavalcante; and the aftermath of the Morocco earthquake and the Libya floods were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

The Damning Myth of Spoken Word Radio: High Time Spent Listening (TSA) and Low Cume

By TALKERS | September 12, 2023September 12, 2023 by TALKERS

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

Dependency upon a PPM panel to deliver high time spent listening is a bad business model. Would you rather count on one person listening for one hour or four people listening for 15 minutes? Right.

A good music format program director knows exactly how to program talk radio in a PPM environment. Oddly, when a music programmer has the privilege of programming a talk station they seem to forget all of their programming knowledge. Both formats are measured by exactly the same technology and therefore if it “works” in music, it works in talk.

The reason “New Jersey 101.5” quickly became the highest cuming FM talk station in the world – for 20+ years – is because when Bob McAllan, Jay Sorensen, Perry Simon, John Dziuba and I designed it, we had a simple process: Build a music station that takes a lot of phone calls. It was always programmed like a top 40 station and 33 years later it obviously worked.

The reason “Real Radio 104.1 in Orlando” was the only Howard Stern station that did not suffer the expense of having to change format when he was recruited to SiriusXM Satellite Radio was because the station was built as a heavily formatted music station that took a lot of phone calls. Note that Real Radio 104.1 and New Jersey 101.5 both air music non-stop on the weekends for the single purpose of targeting a specific cume demographic. It obviously worked.

What are the key elements of a music format that should be applied to talk in order to build cume?

Please, god, don’t flag the “breaks.”
Every show had a specific pace based on topic set up time and call length time which gave the station a consistent rhythm and sound. All day.
No “records” from home! No personal sound effects, jingles or that crap.
Constantly sell ahead. No yesterday calls, yesterday references. Sell what’s next.
Assume every single listener just tuned in. Explain the topic and give the phone number obsessively.
Listener driven not host driven. Every host is valuable and gifted but if a host makes the mistake of quitting, the interest needs and tastes of the listener are constant and can be reflected by the next host. A constant.

Mickey Luckoff, the brilliant president of KGO, San Francisco for decades explained why he hired most of his hosts from top 40 radio because, “I can teach them TALK but I can’t teach them radio.” BTW yes, even 34-year morning host Jim Dunbar worked at WLS and KQV as a top 40 jock immediately before joining KGO to host a talk show.

Walter Sabo was a pioneer in the concept of targeted talk which allows a station to precisely reach a chosen demographic. He has had a robust list of consulting clients including, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Conde Naste, CBS, Press Broadcasting, RKO General, Hearst, Fred Silverman Productions, and many more. His company HITVIEWS was the first major player to recognize and monetize online video stars known as “influencers.” He is on the nominating board of the Radio Hall of Fame. Reach him at 646.678.1110 or walter@sabomedia.com. Discover Sabo’s network radio show here: waltersterlingshow.com.

WPHT, Philadelphia Broadcasts Dom Giordano’s Parent-Targeted Podcast as Back-to-School Special

By TALKERS | September 12, 2023 by TALKERS

In what was clearly a timely programming choice, WPHT, Philadelphia “Talk Radio 1210” aired the back-to-school edition of popular midday host Dom Giordano’s acclaimed podcast, “Readin’ Writin’ and Reason.” Giordano, heard daily 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm, is considered “The Dean of Philadelphia Talk Radio.” He is a former teacher and longtime education analyst. The special program, which aired on 8/31 at 9:00 pm emphasized the importance of parental rights and featured noted psychiatrist Renee S. Kohanski M.D. who gave specific guidance on how parents could direct their kids to realize they could come to them with anything that happened in school. Riley Gaines joined to talk about gender issues, particularly in female sports and Kirk Cameron came aboard to discuss getting books that celebrate traditional values back in libraries. Giordano tells TALKERS, “The show showcases the cutting-edge educational issues we face as a country and offers solutions both short and long term.” On his regularly scheduled show today (9/12), Giordano will be interviewing 13-year-old singing/recording rising star Stella Mabry about her song “Mean Girl” which she wrote at the age of 10 to express her experience being bullied in school. Bullying continues to be a growing problem in American education.

Yesterday’s (9/11) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | September 12, 2023 by TALKERS

The 22^nd anniversary of the terror attacks of 9/11; former President Donald Trump asks Judge Tanya Chutkan to recuse herself from his election subversion case; President Joe Biden’s faltering support from working-class voters; the U.S.-Iran $6 billion prisoner swap; Biden’s press conference in Vietnam; the Hunter Biden investigation; the 2024 presidential race; House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s Biden impeachment inquiry plans; North Korea’s Kim Jong Un travels to meet with Russia’s Vladimir Putin for weapons talks; and the U.S. takes on Google in an anti-trust suit were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Monday Memo: “You are about to enter another dimension,” The Radio Zone

By TALKERS | September 11, 2023 by TALKERS

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

Many news/talk stations broker weekend hours to professionals who host ask-the-expert shows to attract new clients.

AND IT WORKS…IF…the show (for lack of a more diplomatic way to say this) doesn’t suck. And if it isn’t a well-kept secret available only to those listening in real-time. Make it the hub of a broadcast/podcast/social media strategy. In some markets where I don’t have a client station, I work directly with weekenders, setting-up the workflow for that strategy; and coaching the hosts, because their stations don’t.

But don’t take my word for it. I asked ChatGPT: “In the style of Rod Serling, explain how attorneys, real estate agents, and financial advisors can attract new clients by hosting ask-the-expert radio call-in shows.” MOMENTS later, the robot replied…

“You’re about to embark on a journey where the boundaries of expertise and the airwaves blur, a place where the seekers of knowledge and the purveyors of guidance converge. Welcome, dear listener, to the realm of the ask-the-expert radio call-in show. In this enigmatic space, attorneys, real estate agents, and financial advisors have found a conduit to attract new clients unlike any other.

Picture, if you will, an attorney stepping into the radio spotlight

The air is charged with anticipation as listeners dial in with their legal queries. With a voice as authoritative as the gavel’s echo, the attorney navigates the complexities of the law, unraveling legal mysteries for all to hear. As each answer resonates through the airwaves, trust is built, and seekers of legal counsel find themselves drawn to this beacon of clarity. The attorney has become not only a voice but a guide, attracting clients who yearn for someone to navigate their legal twilight zone.

And now, shift your gaze to the real estate agent who steps into the radio’s embrace

The lines are buzzing with questions about the labyrinthine world of property transactions. With each response, the agent paints a picture of market trends, property values, and the elusive art of negotiation. As the agent’s insights cascade through the radio waves, an aura of expertise takes shape. Those yearning for a steady hand to navigate the winding corridors of real estate find solace in the agent’s voice. The agent has transformed into a beacon, attracting clients who seek someone to illuminate the path to their real estate dreams.

Finally, consider the financial advisor entering the radio’s sphere

The lines light up with inquiries about investments, retirement, and securing financial futures. With a voice as reassuring as a well-balanced portfolio, the advisor deciphers the complexities of financial planning. Each word uttered becomes a thread in the tapestry of financial security. Listeners, entranced by the advisor’s insights, recognize a sage who can guide them through the tumultuous sea of monetary choices. The financial advisor becomes a lighthouse, attracting clients who crave a steady hand to navigate their financial voyage.

In this realm of radio airwaves, where seekers become callers and experts become guides, attorneys, real estate agents, and financial advisors have discovered a conduit to attract new clients. As their voices resonate with wisdom and authority, as their advice slices through the enigma of their fields, a bond of trust is forged. These experts, illuminated by the radio’s glow, become beacons in the darkness, attracting clients who yearn for guidance in the vast twilight zones of law, real estate, and finance. And so, dear listener, the call-in show becomes not just a program but a nexus where seekers and guides converge, bridging the gaps between knowledge and curiosity, between questions and answers. Welcome to the radio’s embrace, where the experts illuminate the unknown, one call at a time.”

Cue the music.

Next week here: “Why not just podcast?”

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

SiriusXM to Present Town Hall with Chris Christie

By TALKERS | September 11, 2023 by TALKERS

SiriusXM and New England College in Concord, New Hampshire announce that former New Jersey Governor and 2024 presidential candidate Chris Christie will take part in a town hall event with P.O.T.U.S. channel host Steve Scully. The special program takes place before an audience at the school tomorrow (9/12) at 1:00 pm ET. The former governor is also expected to take questions from audience members.

Top Weekend News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | September 11, 2023 by TALKERS

President Joe Biden’s bad poll numbers; the possibility of a government shutdown without congressional action; Biden’s trip to Vietnam; today’s 9/11 anniversary; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the 2024 presidential race; the Hunter Biden investigation; North Korea’s Kim Jong Un’s expected meeting with Russia’s Vladimir Putin; the UAW threatens to strike; the search for escaped PA killer Danelo Cavalcante; the search for survivors of the Morocco earthquake were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.