Industry News

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

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.

Industry News

Todd Starnes Publishes New Political Book

Todd Starnes, president of Starnes Media Group and a nationally syndicated talk radio personality,im 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.

Industry News

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

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,im 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.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

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.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

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.

Industry News

Liz Truss Inks Book Deal with Salem’s Regnery Publishing

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 supposedlyim 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.”

Industry News

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

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.

Industry News

Bret Baier Signs Extension with FOX News Media

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 coim-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.

Industry News

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

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.

Industry News

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

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

imDependency 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 McAllanJay SorensenPerry SimonJohn 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.

Industry News

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

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.”im 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.

Industry News

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

The 22nd 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.

Industry Views

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

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imMany 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.

im

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

Industry News

SiriusXM to Present Town Hall with Chris Christie

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.

Industry News

Top Weekend News/Talk Media Stories

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.

Ratings Takeaways

August 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

imAugust 2023 PPM Data – Information for the August 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 August 2023 sweep covered July 20 – August 16.

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 July 2023 – August 2023 (6+).   

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media Group’s KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 4.0 – 3.3, -.7, #10 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas’ KUT 5.4 – 6.1, +.7, fifth to third

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media Group adult hits KBPA, eighth month in succession, 10.4 – 9.7, -.7

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: rhythmic CHR KPEZ (+.9)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: country KASE (-1.3)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 7.9 – 9.2, +1.3, third to second

News: Capitol Broadcasting-owned WRAL-HD3 “WRAL News+” flat at .1, repeats at #16

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” 1.8 – 2.3, +.5, #12 to #9

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 9.9 – 9.5, -.4, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WUNC, second consecutive month, 9.9 – 9.5, -.4

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: news/talk WTKK (+1.3)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WRAL (-.7)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Urban One’s WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 5.7 – 6.0, +.3, sixth to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” 2.2 – 2.8, +.6, #16 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 6.6 – 6.3, -.3, remains in third-place

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media adult hits WJJK, third successive month, 8.4 – 7.8, -.6

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: hot AC WNTR (+2.7)*

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: country WLHK (-1.5)

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

MILWAUKEE 

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 9.7 – 10.7, +1.0, #1

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Brewers) 7.9 – 8.7, +.8, fourth to third  

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” 1.0 – 1.4, +.4, steady at #17

Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” .8 – 1.0, +.2, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM flat at 2.5, #13 to #14

Wisconsin Educational Communications Board’s WHAD 1.5 – 1.7, +.2, repeats at #16

Number One 6+: news/talk WISN, fifth straight month, 9.7 – 10.7, +1.0

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: news/talk WISN (+1.0)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: rock WHQC (-.7)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 5.6 – 5.8, +.2, sixth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” 4.3 – 4.8, +.5, ninth to eighth    

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” 1.3 – 1.6, +.3, #20 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 3.4 – 4.2, +.8, #13 to #11

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA, seventh month in succession, 11.4 – 10.3, -1.1

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: adult hits WCJK (+1.0)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WJXA (-1.1)

PROVIDENCE 

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 6.2 – 6.8, +.6, sixth to fifth

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .2 – .4, +.2, repeats at #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” 2.5 – 2.6, +.1, continues in eighth-place

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 2.1 – 2.6, +.5, tenth to eighth

Cumulus Media’s WPRV “790 The Score” steady at .1, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 1.9 – 2.0, +.1, unchanged at #11

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 1.5 – 1.4, -.1, anchored at #14

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI, second month in a row, 9.6 – 9.7, +.1

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: Spanish tropical WKKB (+.8)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: CHR WPRO-FM (-1.0)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 3.9 – 3.1, -.8, ensconced at #11

News: iHeartMedia-owned WNOH “BIN 105.3 Because Truth Matters” flat at .2, #22 to #20

Max Broadcast Group’s business talk WGH-FM-HD2 “Money Radio” steady at .2, #22 to #20

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group-owned WVSP “Sports Radio 94.1 ESPN” 2.5 – 2.6, +.1, repeats at #14

WVSP cluster-mate WGH-AM “Fox Sports 1310” unchanged at .2, #22 to #20

Sinclair’s WTAR “Sports Radio 850” flat at .2, #22 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, eighth straight month, 10.0 – 11.3, +1.3

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WWDE (+2.1)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WTWV (-1.0)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 6.1 – 6.5, +.4, sixth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.6 – 3.2, -.4, #10 to #12

Number One 6+: Renda adult contemporary WEJZ, first month, 9.5 – 9.3, -.2

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: country WQIK (+1.4)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WJGL (-.8)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, #12 to #10

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 1.3 -1.6, +.3, #13 to #12

WZZR cluster-mate WJNO “News Radio 1290” 1.1 – 1.3, +.2, repeats at #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” .2 – .4, +.2, anchored at #18

iHeartMedia-owned WBZT “Sports Radio 1230 The Gambler” flat at .2, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 2.8 – 2.3, -.5, eighth to ninth

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting classic hits-oldies WEAT, second straight month, 10.2 – 9.2, -1.0

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian WAYF (+1.3)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WOLL (-1.7)**

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

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 3.9 – 4.7, +.8, anchored in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 2.3 – 2.8, +.5, #11 to #9

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC flat at 1.4, repeats at #13

Number One 6+: Audacy adult hits WSMW, eighth month in a row, 12.3 – 12.5, +.2

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: country WPAW (+1.6)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: country WTQR (-1.0)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.5 – 2.0, -.5, eighth to ninth

Starnes Media Group-owned KWAM “News Talk Memphis The Mighty 990” steady at .2, #16 to #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” 2.5 – 2.8, +.3, eighth to seventh

WFMS’ internet stream .4 – .2, -.2, #13 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.4 – 1.8, +.4, #11 to #10

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS, sixth straight month, 13.7 – 12.9, -.8

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WRVR (+1.0)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: gospel WHAL (-1.6)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 4.7 – 4.8, +.1, repeats in seventh-place

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

WTIC-AM’s internet stream steady at .8, unchanged at #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 1.6 – 1.3, -.3, #14 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 3.7 – 4.0, +.3, eighth to ninth

New England Public Media’s WFCR unchanged at .6, continues at #18

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 43rd month in a row, 9.6 – 10.1, +.5

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WRCH; rhythmic CHR WZMX; and CHR WKCI (+.5)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: alternative WMRQ (-1.4)

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

Industry News

John Howell Exits WLS-AM, Chicago

Afternoon drive personality Big John Howell has exited Cumulus Media’s news/talk WLS-AM, Chicagoim after more than 10 years with the station. WLS posted the following to Facebook: “Yesterday was John Howell’s last show on The Big 89. He has been a staple of 890 WLS for over a decade. His wit, political prowess, and focus on Chicago conversations has given our audience a destination for smart, local radio in the afternoons. Thank you, John, for being a part of the fabric of The Big 89.” Howell has not commented publicly on his departure from the station.

Industry Views

Talk Host Rick Smith is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast

Maverick talk show host, Rick Smith is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Ranked by TALKERS at number 100 on the journal’s Heavy Hundred list, Smith – who has positioned himself as a tell-it-like-it is champion of the working class – is described by Michael Harrison as “somewhat of a square peg in a scene dominated by round holes on both the left and the right.” The Chicago-based genre-bender is a 30-year Teamster trucker-turned-working-class talker heard 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm ET on dozens of radio stations across the U.S. – a mix of commercial and public. He tells Harrison, “I’m not a red hat, I’m not a blue hat… I’m a hard hat.” His left-of-center talk media footprint is enhanced by exposure on a variety of cable TV channels including Free Speech TVDirecTVDish and more. He has a successful podcast with millions of downloads, and he streams on FacebookXTwitch and YouTube. All this is accomplished with a modest, independent operation run by two people and a homemade studio. His show’s slogan is “Where working people come to talk.” Listen to the podcast in its entirety here.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories for Week of September 4-8

The various legal battles facing former President Donald Trump again came together as the most-talked-about story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was President Joe Biden’s low job ratings, followed by the 2024 presidential race and the legal theory Trump may be disqualified from the ballot due to Section 3 of the 14th Amendment 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 this week’s complete chart here.

Ratings Takeaways

August 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Three

imAugust 2023 PPM Data – Information for the August 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 August 2023 sweep covered July 20 – August 16.

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 July 2023 – August 2023 (6+).

PORTLAND

News/Talk: Alpha Media’s KXL “FM 101 News” 5.8 – 6.7, +.9, fourth to third

iHeartMedia-owned KEX “News Radio 1190” 1.4 – 1.9, +.5, #20 to #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB 6.2 – 6.1, -.1, third to fourth

KOPB’s internet stream 1.4 – 1.7, +.3, anchored at #20

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KKCW, first month, 8.8 – 10.3, +1.5

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KKCW (+1.5)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: triple A KINK (-1.6)

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk: Urban One-owned WBT AM & WBT-FM “Charlotte’s News Talk” 6.1 – 6.4, +.3, fourth to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One’s WFNZ-FM “Sports Radio 92.7” 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, locked at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: University Radio Foundation’s WFAE 3.6 – 4.6, +1.0, #11 to #6

Number One 6+: Urban One urban-rhythmic oldies WOSF, fourth straight month, 8.0 – 8.2, +.2

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk WFAE (+1.0)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult hits WLKO (-1.5)

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk: Alpha Media-owned KTSA “Stay Connected” 2.5 – 2.6, +.1, #16 to #15

iHeartMedia’s WOAI “News Radio 1200” 2.6 – 2.4, -.2, #15 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Texas Public Radio’s KSTX 1.7 – 1.9, +.2, #19 to #20

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM, eighth consecutive month, 9.1 – 8.6, -.5

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: country KCYY (+1.5)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KQXT (-1.3)

SACRAMENTO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM “News 1530 AM & 93.1 FM” 12.6 – 9.7, -2.9, #1

KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM cluster-mate KSTE-AM “Talk 650” flat at 3.7, seventh to tenth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Capital Public Radio-owned KXJZ 2.1 – 2.3, +.2, #15 to #14

Number One 6+: Audacy classic rock KSEG, first month, 10.7 – 9.7, -1.0 and iHeartMedia news/talk KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM, second month in a row, 12.6 – 9.7, -2.9

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KBEB (+2.0)*

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: news/talk KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM (-2.9)**

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

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

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk: Audacy’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020 AM” 3.6 – 3.8, +.2, repeats in tenth-place

KDKA’s internet stream .7 – .8, +.1, #21 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan All Sports All The Time” (Pirates) 6.7 – 6.8, +.1, continues at #4

Public Radio News/Talk: Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting’s WESA flat at 4.6, sixth to eighth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW, ninth month in a row, 12.8 – 11.4, -1.4

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: alternative WXDX (+.8)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WWSW (-1.4)

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” 4.3 – 4.9, +.6, sixth to fifth

iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM “Talk Radio” 4.6 – 3.4, -1.2, #4 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Utah’s KUER 2.1 – 2.6, +.5, #20 to #17

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KSFI, tenth straight month, 11.6 – 10.8, -.8

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: hot AC KBZN (+1.3)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: news/talk KNRS and adult contemporary KBEE (-1.2)

LAS VEGAS

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

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, second month in succession, 8.1 – 9.3, +1.2

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: rhythmic hot AC KXQQ (+1.4)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: Spanish adult hits KWID (-2.1)

ORLANDO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKS “Real Radio 104.1” 4.0 – 4.4, +.4, tenth to seventh

Cox Media Group-owned WDBO “Orlando’s News Talk” 3.9 – 3.4, -.5, #11 to #13

WTKS’ cluster-mate WFLF “Orlando News Radio” 1.6 – 1.7, +.1, #17 to #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WYGM “96.9 The Game” 1.3 – 1.4, +.1, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Community Connections-owned WMFE 2.4 – 2.9, +.5, repeats at #14

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMGF, third consecutive month, 8.5 – 9.1, +.6

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WOCL (+1.9)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: Spanish tropical WPYO (-1.2)

CINCINNATI

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WLW “700 Cincinnati’s News Radio” (Reds) 16.0 – 14.0, -2.0, #1

WLW’s cluster-mate WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” 4.2 – 4.4, +.2, seventh to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WCKY “ESPN 1530” .8 – 1.2, +.4, #22 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Cincinnati Public Radio’s WVXU 4.1 – 4.0, -.1, repeats in eighth-place

Number One 6+: news/talk WLW, 19th consecutive month, 16.0 – 14.0, -2.0

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WGRR (+1.8)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: news/talk WLW (-2.0)

CLEVELAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTAM “News Radio 1100” (Guardians) 5.1 – 5.5, +.4, continues in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” 3.1 – 4.0, +.9, #12 to #11

WKRK’s internet stream .4 – .5, +.1, repeats at #18

iHeartMedia-owned WARF “Fox Sports 1350 AM The Gambler” flat at .2, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Kent State University’s WKSU 4.9 – 5.2, +.3, steady at #9

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI, tenth month in a row, 10.3 – 10.5, +.2

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: sports talk WKRK +.9)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: urban AC WZAK (-1.6)

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KMBZ-FM “98.1 FM News, Traffic, Weather” 4.9 – 5.1, +.2, fifth to third

KMBZ-FM cluster-mate KMBZ-AM “Talk 980 AM” 1.2 – 1.3, +.1, #20 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KCSP “Sports Radio 610 Our Teams, Our Town” (Royals) 2.6 – 2.7, +.1, repeats at #13

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KCUR 3.4 – 3.5, +.1, #12 to #10

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

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: country KBEQ (+.9)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KCKC (-1.1)

COLUMBUS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WTVN “News Radio 610” 6.9 – 7.4, +.5, third to second   

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Tegna-owned WBNS-FM “97.1 FM The Fan” 4.9 – 5.6, +.7, sixth to fifth

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

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia country WCOL, tenth straight month, 10.9 – 10.4, -.5

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: classic rock WLVQ and rock WRKZ (+.6)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: classical WOSA (-.7)

Up next: August 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

Webinar: New Rules of Podcasting on YouTube

Steven Goldstein’s Amplifi Media and Coleman InsightsJay Nachlis are presenting a free 30-minute webinar today (9/7) at 2:00 pm ET that addresses what Goldstein calls “truly an important shift taking place in podcasting right now that affects how your podcast will be found. YouTube is now the top destination for podcast listening and discovery. The impact is significant in a variety of ways.” Goldstein says today’s webinar “will show you how people are using YouTube and offer seven key insights on how to maximize your podcast’s exposure in a sea of content.” The link for the webinar is here.

Industry News

MIW to Present Behind the Mic Webinar

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc announces the first in the “Tools of the Trade” webinarim series titled, “Behind the Mic,” that features radio personalities Angela Yee, Dana Cortez, and Patty Steele. The webinar takes place on Wednesday, September 20 at 2:00 pm ET. MIW board president Ruth Presslaff comments, “MIW is proud to announce this free ‘Tools of the Trade: Behind the Mic’ webinar focused on the women who have blazed trails as on-air personalities and are integral members of their communities.” Register for the webinar here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (9/6) Top News/Talk Media Stories

President Joe Biden’s negative job ratings; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the 2024 presidential race and the 14th Amendment argument that could keep Trump off some states’ ballots; special counsel’s intent to seek an indictment of Hunter Biden on gun charges; the migrant crisis; and Hurricane Lee expected to become a major threat by the weekend were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

August 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

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

Nielsen Audio’s August 2023 sweep covered July 20 – August 16.

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 July 2023 – August 2023 (6+).

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” steady at 3.5, ninth to seventh

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 9.1 – 9.3, +.2, anchored in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” (Nationals) 2.4 – 2.6, +.2, repeats at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU unchanged at 11.6, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, 21st month in succession, flat at 11.6

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: classic rock WBIG (+.5)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian WGTS (-1.3) 

BOSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” 3.4 – 3.5, +.1, #13 to #12

News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” 4.5 – 4.2, -.3, seventh to eighth

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” 4.9 – 5.6, +.7, fifth to third

Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” (Red Sox) 3.5 – 3.7, +.2 #12 to #11

Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 6.1 – 5.6, -.5, second to third

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.8 – 3.9, +.1, #11 to #10

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR, third month in succession, 6.2 – 6.5, +.3

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: country WBWL (+1.1)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult hits WBGB (-1.0)

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 3.6 – 3.9, +.3, tenth to eighth

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

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLYF and country WKIS (+.7)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WFEZ (-1.1)

SEATTLE

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” 4.9 – 4.7, -.2, fifth to seventh

News: Lotus Communications-owned KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM “Northwest News Radio” 2.3 – 2.0, -.3, #17 to #19

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” (Mariners) 4.0 – 4.7, +.7, ninth to seventh

iHeartMedia’s KJR-FM “93.3 FM Seattle’s Sports Leader” 1.6 – 2.4, +.8, #22 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio-owned KUOW 4.5 – 6.8, +2.3, seventh to second

Number One 6+: Audacy country KKWF, third straight month, 7.7 – 7.9, +.2

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk KUOW (+2.3)*

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: rhythmic hot AC KHTP (-1.1)

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

DETROIT

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 2.1 – 1.9, -.2, #17 to #16

News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” 3.9 – 4.0, +.1, #10 to #11

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Tigers) 6.7 – 7.2, +.5, third to second

WXYT-FM’s internet stream 1.8 – 1.3, -.5, #18 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 1.7 – 1.6, -.1, #19 to #17

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia CHR WKQI, third successive month, 9.6 – 9.2, -.4

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: country WYCD (+1.5)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: country WDRQ (-1.4)

PHOENIX

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” 2.9 – 3.9, +1.0, #13 to #10

Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” 2.7 – 3.0, +.3, repeats at #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College-owned KJZZ 6.5 – 4.1, -2.4, second to seventh

Number One 6+: Hubbard classic rock KSLX, third consecutive month, 7.8 – 7.6, -.2

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: news/talk KFYI and rock KUPD (+1.0)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk KJZZ (-2.4)**

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

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” (Minnesota Twins) flat at 3.5, #13 to #14

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KTMY “My Talk 107.1” 2.3 – 2.2, -.1, continues at #16

iHeartMedia’s KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” unchanged at 1.3, repeats at #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” 3.8 – 4.8, +1.0, #12 to #9

Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW 6.7 – 6.2, -.5, stays in fourth-place

KNOW’s internet stream 1.2, #20 (unlisted in July 2023)

Number One 6+: Northwestern Media contemporary Christian KTIS-FM, fifth consecutive month, 11.6 – 10.7, -.9

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: sports talk KFXN (+1.0)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian KTIS-FM (-.9)

SAN DIEGO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” 4.6 – 4.7, +.1, eighth to seventh

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” (Padres), 5.0 – 4.9, -.1, fifth to sixth

Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 5.2 – 5.8, +.6, fourth to third

Number One 6+: Local Media San Diego rhythmic hot AC XHRM, first month, 6.9 – 6.6, -.3

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: regional Mexican KLNV (+1.1)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KYXY (-1.1)

TAMPA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” steady at 5.2, sixth to fifth

iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” 4.1 – 4.3, +.2, tenth to eighth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” (Rays) 1.3 – 1.8, +.5 #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 2.7 – 2.2, -.5, #15 to #19

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, 25th month in a row, 8.1 – 7.8, -.3

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: hot AC WMTX (+.8)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian WCIE (-1.1)

DENVER

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOA “News Radio 850” (Colorado Rockies) 2.8 – 2.7, -.1, repeats at #16

KOA cluster-mate KDFD “Freedom 93.7” 1.9 – 2.0, +.1, #19 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” 2.7 – 3.8, +1.1, #17 to #11

KSE Radio Ventures’ KKSE-FM “Altitude Sports Radio 92.5” 1.8 – 2.1, +.3, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 3.7 – 4.0, +.3, #11 to #10

Number One 6+: Bonneville country KYGO, first month, 6.1 – 6.6, +.5

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: sports talk KKFN (+1.1)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: classic rock KQMT (-1.3)

BALTIMORE

News/Talk: Hearst Television’s WBAL “News Radio 1090 AM & 101.5 FM” (Orioles) 3.5 – 3.2, -.3, locked at #12

WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” 1.2 – 1.5, +.3, #19 to #18

News: Audacy-owned business news WDCH “Bloomberg 99.1 FM” 1.0 – 1.4, +.4, #21 to #19

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” 3.8 – 4.4, +.6, tenth to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 4.3 – 4.4, +.1, repeats in eighth-place

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult hits WQSR, first month, unchanged at 6.7

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: sports talk WJZ-FM and urban AC WWIN-FM (+.6)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: classical WBJC (-.8)

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” (Cardinals) 5.5 – 5.9, +.4, eighth to sixth

KMOX cluster-mate KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, #15 to #16

iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-FM “104.9 The Patriot” .7 – .9, +.2, #21 to #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” 1.7 – 2.4, +.7, #16 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 3.9 – 3.6, -.3, repeats at #12

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting adult hits WARH, eighth month in a row, 11.4 – 10.3, -1.1

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: sports talk WXOS (+.7)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: country WIL (-1.4)

Up next: August 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

Talk Host Mark Simone Inks New Deal with WOR, New York

New York City talk radio personality Mark Simone signs a new, three-year deal with iHeartMedia’s news/talk 710 WOR to continue hosting the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon show. Simone says, “There’s no betterim place to be in the radio world than iHeartRadio. Thanks to the finest broadcasting executives around, Tom Cuddy, Thea Mitchem and Bernie Weiss for making it all happen. Walking to work every day is like walking through the Radio Hall of Fame. Just to get to my studio, I pass Elvis Duran, Jim Kerr, Charlamagne tha God, Angela Yee and other all-stars.” WOR program director Tom Cuddy adds, “When I joined WOR almost 11 years ago, Mark was my first hire. Since then, it’s been a blast watching Mark grow into becoming the highest-rated radio talk host in his time slot, along with digital numbers that are among the highest in the country.”

EDITOR’S APOLOGY:  The above story about Mark Simone’s new contract at WOR originally ran yesterday (9/5) in TALKERS.  Unfortunately, our art department utilized a combination of hand-rendered illustration, CGI and AI in creating a headline banner image that apparently missed its mark.  The premise was to depict Simone as the proverbial “800 pound gorilla” of New York radio in which his avatar – a Simone lookalike – inspired by the legend of King Kong, was depicted as a determined figure climbing the Empire State Building.  As it turned out, the King Kong reference was not clear to our readers because there was no actual ape depicted and Simone received a large number of emails telling him that TALKERS ran a photo of the wrong guy.  We meant it to be a caricature but our creative plan backfired.  Simone was upset by the image telling TALKERS, “I have had dozens of caricatures done of me in the past. They are usually somewhat cute.  Never had a problem with them. Yours looked hideous and really cheap. When radio people try to do it, they have no skill at it… no one thought it was a caricature and no one thought it was me. The 13 emails I got from radio execs asked me why you used a picture of someone else, so they never thought for a second it was supposed to be a caricature and no one noticed anything to do with the Empire State Building.”  TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison issued the following statement, “Simone is right.  Looking back at it now, with the increased objectivity of having a full day to think it over, I can understand why he was upset, although there was nothing specifically disparaging about the image. It just wasn’t clear that it was meant to be him and that he was supposed to be climbing a building in an iconic scenario.  After all, a media personality’s sound and image are their brand and they must be protective of its depiction.  We have subsequently pulled the banner from the website and replaced it with a more standard format with the same copy but a different graphic (see above).  The irony is Mark Simone and I have been friendly for more than three decades and I’ve often stated that he is one of the greatest and most successful radio personalities in New York and the nation, not to mention a top notch human being. I still think that.  All of us at TALKERS deeply regret this mistake which was the result of an overly-zealous attempt at being creative. In the world of publicity there’s the old saying ‘as long as they spell your name correctly.’ Well, I guess in this case we spelled Mark Simone’s face wrong.”

Industry News

Lars Larson’s Nationally Syndicated Show Celebrates 20 Years

The Compass Media Networks nationally syndicated Lars Larson show celebrates its 20th anniversary this month. Larson hosts a daily afternoon show on Alpha Media’s news/talk KXL-FM, Portland from 12:00im noon to 4:00 pm in addition to the syndicated program heard 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm PT. Larson states, “20 years ago this month, Peter Kosann (then CEO of Westwood One) asked me to do a nationally syndicated radio talk show to replace a departing host. When Peter and I both left WWO and he formed Compass Media Networks, he asked if I would continue the partnership we had forged in the first six years. I quickly and happily agreed. One of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

Industry News

Cumulus and Rich Eisen Expand Partnership

Cumulus Media and sports media personality Rich Eisen announce a new deal with the Cumulus Podcast Network to distribute, market, and monetize all existing and forthcoming podcasts with the newly formed Rich Eisen Podcast Network. This includes Eisen’s latest production, “What The Football with Suzy Shuster and Amy Trask,” which debuts on September 12. Most recently, Eisen launchedim “Overreaction Monday” on September 4 that expands on the most popular segment of his flagship podcast, “The Rich Eisen Show,” into its own weekly podcast with Eisen and co-host Chris Brockman reflecting on the biggest fan- and hysterical media-driven overreactions from the previous weekend’s professional and college football games. To support his growing podcast network, Eisen has built an expanded studio and team in El Segundo, California with state-of-the-art recording equipment and set design. Eisen says, “Since joining the Cumulus family, they have shown unwavering support for my vision in growing my brand. As I have expanded my suite of services, they were the only ones I wanted to do business with, and I couldn’t think of a better place for my voice and productions to be heard over the coming years.” In addition to his podcast network, Eisen hosts the pregame and halftime shows for Westwood One’s syndicated “Monday Night Football” coverage and anchors “The Rich Eisen Show,” also syndicated by Westwood One for national radio.

Ratings Takeaways

August 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

imAugust 2023 PPM Data – Information for the August 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 August 2023 sweep covered July 20 – August 16.

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 July 2023 – August 2023 (6+). 

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.2 – 3.1, -.1, #11 to #10

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” flat at 4.9, sixth to seventh

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.6 – 2.5, -.1, locked at #13

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 2.8 – 2.9, +.1, anchored at #12

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.7 – 3.1, -.6, remains in tenth-place

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, tenth month in a row, 7.7 – 8.1, +.4

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: rhythmic CHR WKTU (+.8)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (-.9) 

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.2 – 4.8, +.6, fifth to third

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 2.8 – 2.9, +.1, #11 to #12

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 1.9 – 2.0, +.1, #21 to #20

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KRTH, sixth month in succession, 6.8 – 6.4, -.4

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: news/talk KFI and regional Mexican KBUE (+.6)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: smooth AC KTWV (-.9)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” 3.2 – 3.0, -.2, #10 to #11

News: Audacy’s WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 5.0 – 4.6, -.4, repeats in fourth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WSCR “670 The Score” (Cubs) 2.5 – 3.0, +.5, #14 to #11

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media’s WBEZ 2.7 – 2.9, +.2, #12 to #13  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, eleventh straight month, 7.0 – 7.7, +.7

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLIT (+.7)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: triple A WXRT (-.7)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.9 – 2.0, +.1, #17 to #18

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.7 – 7.1, +.4, locked in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.9 – 3.6, +.7, tenth to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 4.6 – 5.3, +.7, fourth to third  

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, fifth month in succession, 8.1 – 8.0, -.1

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk KQED; sports talk KNBR; and CHR KMVQ (+.7)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KISQ (-.9)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.9 – 4.3, +.4, ninth to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” 4.7 – 4.4, -.3, second to third

Audacy-owned KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Texas Rangers) 2.5 – 2.7, +.2, #16 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting’s KERA 2.7 – 2.8, +.1, repeats at #15

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KSPF, third month in a row, 5.3 – 4.9, -.4 and country KSCS, first month, 4.5 – 4.9, +.4

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: hot AC KDMX and news – talk hybrid KRLD-AM (+.5)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian KLTY (-1.2)

HOUSTON 

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) 4.0 – 3.7, -.3, #9 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF 1.8 – 2.3, +.5, #21 to #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA first month, 6.9 – 7.5, +.6

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: urban AC KMJQ (+.9)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: country KKBQ and regional Mexican KQQK (-.6)

Note: KODA was #1 28 straight months before slipping to second in July 2023 and returns to the top spot.

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 6.5 – 6.6, +.1, ensconced in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WZGC “92.9 The Game” 2.3 – 2.8, +.5, #18 to #15

Dickey Broadcasting’s WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) 3.3 – 2.5, -.8, #14 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools’ WABE 3.5 – 3.7, +.2, ninth to tenth

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, eighth successive month, 9.6 – 9.2, -.4

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: CHR WWPW (+.7)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WWSZ (-.9)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 5.6 – 4.6, -1.0, fourth to ninth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies) 4.6 – 5.5, +.9, ninth to fourth

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 4.2 – 3.8, -.4, repeats in tenth-place

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic rock WMGK, fourth straight month, 9.8 – 9.5, -.3

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: sports talk WIP (+.9)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: news KYW (-1.0)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, repeats at #18

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.5 – 1.4, -.1, #21 to #20

News: Audacy-owned WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 3.7 – 4.7, +1.0, seventh to third

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 3.2 – 2.3, -.9, #9 to #17

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 3.4 – 3.5, +.1, steady in eighth-place

Good Karma Brands-owned WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” 1.4 – 1.7, +.3, #22 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, sixth month in a row, 8.5 – 7.1, -1.4

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: news WINS-FM (+1.0)*

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: classic rock WBAB (-1.4)

*Represents a tie for the largest July 2023 – August 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, .4 – .5, +.1, #19 to #18

Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC .0 – .2, +.2, #20

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, fifth straight month, 8.9 – 9.9, +1.0

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies KOLA (+1.0)*

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: Spanish adult hits KLYY (-1.3)

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

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.3 – 6.5, +.2, #1 

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 5.2 – 5.5, +.3, fifth to fourth

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” 1.2 – 1.7, +.5, #22 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: news KCBS-AM & KFRC, second month in a row, 6.3 – 6.5, +.2 and Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, first month, 5.9 – 6.5, +.6

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: CHR KMVQ (+.8)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: classic rock KUFX (-1.4)

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.5 – 5.5, -1.0, continues in third-place 

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 2.3 – 2.0, -.3, #13 to #12

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) .9 – 1.0, +.1, #20 to #19

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 4.2 – 3.3, -.9, eighth to ninth

WFAN’s internet stream .7 – 1.2, +.5, #23 to #18

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” .9 – 1.0, +.1, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic rock WAXQ, second straight month, 7.8 – 6.7, -1.1

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: sports talk WFAN’s internet stream and contemporary Christian WAWZ (+.5)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WMGQ (-2.5)**

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

Up next: August 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 Views

Pending Business: Persistence vs Passion

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

imWhich is the more important “check the box” trait – persistence or passion?

Is it easier for your air talent to answer that one? Of course, we want passionate on-air talent – those who live for the opportunity to get behind the mic, break it all down for the audience or deliver the critical information that can save lives and calm the fears of an anxious audience.

In a week, for the 22nd time we will remember the events of 9/11. During that historic window of time, I had the privilege of experiencing firsthand the passion that drives great on-air talent to power through the most difficult unknown to stay close to their audience and calm the fears of an audience in shock.

But we must also consider the day-to-day. How about your on-air talent and their producers who compete every day for that exclusive interview that will surely drive audience levels, advertiser results, and maybe a bonus or promotion?

They power through the multiple calls that are not returned, the polite put-off and unkept promises. Especially stinging is when a competitor winds up with the prize.

Persistence or passion? Stop. Right there you must consider the Abraham Lincoln theory of persistence. His mother died when he was nine, he went bankrupt at 27, had a nervous breakdown before he was 30, lost eight elections, finally in 1860 was elected president of the United States and one year later faced the greatest internal conflict in the history of our country – the Civil War.

Let’s go to sales.

Anyone passionate about selling? My number one theory in recruiting sellers from South Florida to San Francisco was and still is, nobody grows up wanting to sell radio advertising. On the other hand, many of us were and still may be passionate about being ON the radio (before or alongside podcasting, YouTube, Rumble, Tik-Tok and Instagram). The passion to perform runs deep through all media, music, theatre, sports, the law, medicine, even business. The passion to sell? Now that is one complicated conversation.

For what it’s worth, here is my theory. It takes both passion and persistence to be great. What attracts any high achiever to a long-term career typically begins with a passion play. A love for the game and the need to achieve. The harder you chase the dream, the more persistence comes into play. The more you learn the ins and outs of refining persistence, the more you will hit your stride in performing.

And there you have it! Touch those three magic “Ps” every day, passion, persistence, performance and the fourth will come your way: Profit!

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

Denver Talk Host Steffan Tubbs’ to Exit Salem’s KNUS in November

News and talk radio pro Steffan Tubbs announced last month that he’ll exit his 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm KNUS-AM, Denver talk show on November 3. Tubbs, who has served in Denver with iHeartMedia’s news/talk KOA as well as Salem Media Group’s KNUS, has been producing documentaries in addition to his radioim work. In a Westword profile, Tubbs talks about his ascent in the news business, his plans for the “final chapter” of his working life, and his current film project about the deadly drug fentanyl. Locally, Tubbs has caused controversy with his 2020 documentary, Denver in Decay. About that film, Tubbs tells Westword, “That documentary kind of put me on the map as being one of the most hated media members by local politicians in Colorado in recent memory, and I embrace that. But with all the hate and praise, the one thing no one has ever said is that Denver in Decay is inaccurate. You can say all you want if you don’t like the messaging, but you can’t attack the accuracy or the credibility.” Read the full story here.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

SiriusXM and New England College announce that former Vice President Mike Pence will take part in a town hall event with P.O.T.U.S. channel hosts Julie Mason and Steve Scully. The special will take place before an audience at New England College outside Concord, New Hampshire on September 6, with the one-hour special premiering at 3:00 pm ET.

LiveOne announces that its subsidiary, PodcastOne, secures a long contract extension with co-founder and president, Kit Gray. LiveOne CEO and chairman Robert Ellin comments, “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Kit Gray. His visionary leadership has been instrumental in building PodcastOne into the success it is today.”

FOX Sports Radio announced the addition of NFL pro tight end and two-time Pro Bowler Kyle Rudolph to its lineup as co-host of “FOX Football Sunday” with FSR weekend personality Mark Willard.

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc and the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation announce that Lucretia Lee-Arceneaux is the first  2023 MIW NABLF Launch program recipient. Launch is a brand-new partnership between MIW and the NAB Leadership Foundation dedicated to supporting and guiding women in radio who are relatively new to the industry. The first of its kind, this program will target the development and curation of talent, this year focused on the engineering side of radio. Lee-Arceneaux serves as a broadcast IT engineer with iHeartMedia.

Industry Views

Politeness, Punctuality and Power

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

imFor decades the power-lunch spot in Manhattan was the beautiful Four Seasons restaurant. Check it out: A history of the Four Seasons Restaurant in New York City – Four Seasons new ownership (townandcountrymag.com)

Top clients would host luncheons at the Four Seasons with Sabo Media. These included Walter Anderson, former chairman/CEO of PARADE magazine who was a regular customer. If the lunch was scheduled for 12:30 pm and I arrived at 12:15 pm, Anderson was already there. Next time, I would arrive at 12:05 pm for the 12:30 pm lunch; he was already there.

The restaurant manager/maître d’ explained that, “The most powerful person always arrives first.” Of course. The most powerful person could control where she sat, where she faced and what your view of the room would be. When Walter Anderson hosted future lunches, I arrived at about 11:15 am for the 12:30 pm meet!

If I had any early career success it was not because I knew anything, it was because of Eleanor Ranft, my assistant. Prior to working with me she had been Robert Sarnoff‘s assistant for 20 years. Robert, as-in-son of the General. (Eleanor knew how to address letters to ambassadors.) At the end of the workday, she would go over the telephone call sheet and make sure I had returned every call. Neither of us were going home unless I returned every call.

When addressing emails, the most powerful people return the emails instantly. Test it, send a note to the most powerful people you know, see what happens. Mel KarmazinBob PittmanHoward SternMichael HarrisonChris OlivieroKraig KitchinDavid YadgaroffBill WhiteLee HarrisDan MasonJarl MohnMarc Rowan instant answers. Instant response keeps a person in the deal-flow, the conversation and the action. Instant response makes them powerful.

Conversely, for weeks I tried to have lunch with a local market EVP, no answer. I didn’t want a job; I was trying to place a sales order for an agency friend! No answer. Finally, I asked the market program director why I never heard from his boss. Answer, “He doesn’t think you can do anything for him.” Obviously, the order went to a different company.

A common trait of every star I’ve had the privilege to know is that they are all extremely polite. For example, Randy ThomasCharlie VanDykeBruce Morrow, Howard Stern, the late Casey KasemElvis Duran are kindness and manners personified. They send thank you notes. Their interpersonal attitude is to share experience rather than to say look it up yourself. Many top executives built their entire career by sending thank you notes.

That being said, THANK YOU for being a client of Sabo Media. Thank you for clearing “Sterling On Sunday” on stations like KMOX, KMBZ-FM, WPHT, KDKA and Albany’s Talk 1300.  Have a pleasant Labor Day.

Walter Sterling-Sabo can be contacted at Walter@sabomedia.com or 646.678.1110 mobile. He’ll answer immediately. Sabo Media’s robust client list over the years has included PARADE magazine, Sirius Satellite Radio, The Wall Street Journal Radio Service, RKO, Salem, and CBS. Sabo was the first to monetize online video stars and influencers through his company HITVIEWS.