Industry News

Audio Tribute Memorializing 9/11 Available to TALKERS Subscribers

The 24th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center in New York City takes place tomorrow. The day – in what has become a historic tradition – will be commemorated by a wide variety of solemn events across the nation.  TALKERS is once again making a special four-minute and eleven-second audio file titled, “Reflections on 9/11,” to its readers and subscribers for on-air, online, or personal use at no cost. Originally produced in 2023 as an audio podcast for Podjockey.com, the emotionally powerful and touching piece was written and delivered by longtime talk media host, commentator and director of the Good For You Network (www.goodforyounetwork.comClaire Carter (a.k.a. C.C. Carter). It also features an original musical backdrop scored and performed by the renowned pop music ensemble Gunhill Road whose “songs with a message” are often played on talk radio. Carter says, “Two months after 9/11, I went down to the World Trade Center site to pay my respects. I walked over to the makeshift ‘Teddy Bear’ memorial site, where people had spontaneously left notes and cards – and teddy bears. I wanted to write down some of what was left, because it was meant to be heard. I wanted to give voice to peoples’ hearts and heartache. And so, I ask you to listen to the raw emotions emanating from their hearts.” To download “Reflections on 9/11” by C.C. Carter and Gunhill Road, please click here.

Industry News

WABC Gala Marks Patriotism, Prestige, and Power Launching America’s 250th Anniversary Celebration

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by Robert Pearl
Exclusive to TALKERS

imgNew York’s Cipriani 42nd Street once again played host to one of radio’s most anticipated annual events of the year: the annual “77 WABC Gala,” held this past Friday (9/5). The spectacular evening blended star-studded entertainment, heartfelt tributes, and plenty of radio family camaraderie – all while raising funds for three cornerstone charities: Tunnel to Towers Foundation, the Police Athletic League, and Shriners Children’s Hospital.

The night doubled as the unofficial kickoff to America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, with patriotic spirit filling the storied hall. Guests were treated to a spectacular mix of tradition and pageantry: bagpipes opened the evening, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and a soaring rendition of the national anthem from tenor Chris Macchio, fresh from performing at President Donald Trump’s 2025 inauguration. Later, country music legend Lee Greenwood brought the house to its feet with “God Bless the USA,” a fitting soundtrack to the night’s theme.

Radio Legend Served as Emcee

The event was emceed by “Cousin” Bruce Morrow, who set the tone with trademark warmth and humor. Featured performances by Vinnie Medugno, and Joe Piscopo with homage to Frank Sinatra classics. Fellow WABC hosts and personalities were out in force: Sid Rosenberg (with wife Danielle), Curtis and Nancy SliwaDominic CarterGreg Kelly (joined by his father, longtime NYPD commissioner Ray Kelly), Lionel and his wife Lynn Shaw (founder of Lynn’s Warriors), Brian KilmeadeRita CosbyLisa GAnthony Cumia, news director James Flippant, and anchor Liz Ratoballi.

WABC owner John Catsimatidis and Red Apple Media president Chad Lopez anchored the front row, alongside Margo Catsimatidis, who was celebrated as the event’s “First Lady of WABC.”  Longtime friend (and WOR personality) Mark Simone – dubbed “Mr. New York”- was on hand, underscoring the collegiality of the broader talk radio community. The gala also drew figures beyond radio, including Mayor Eric Adams and his electoral rival Curtis Sliwa sitting a few tables apart, economic voice Larry Kudlow, the relentless patriot and activist artist Scott LoBaido, Newsmax’s Johnny Tobacco of Wiseguys, and philanthropist Frank Siller of Tunnel to Towers.

Charity with Purpose

While the evening sparkled with entertainment and personality, its heart was rooted in the causes it championed. The Tunnel to Towers Foundation, founded in honor of fallen firefighter Stephen Siller, continues its mission of supporting first responders and veterans, promising to pay off the mortgages of the fallen. The Police Athletic League, New York City’s largest independent youth development nonprofit, provides educational and recreational programs to children in need. And Shriners Children’s Hospital, a global leader in pediatric specialty care, ensures children receive treatment regardless of a family’s ability to pay. These organizations were not just beneficiaries but central characters in a story of service, community, and giving back.

A Night of Theater and Patriotism

Beyond the music, the gala leaned into a spectacle. Impersonators dressed as George WashingtonAbraham Lincoln, and Uncle Sam strolled the ballroom, taking pictures with guests. Later, Lady Liberty herself dramatically popped out of a massive birthday cake as red, white, and blue balloons cascaded from the ceiling. Guests waved WABC-branded light sticks in rhythm with the performances, further amplifying the carnival-like energy.

And as tradition dictates, September’s Virgo birthdays were honored in grand style. Joe Piscopo led a rousing “Happy Birthday” for John Catsimatidis and fellow celebrants, which seamlessly transitioned into a full-throated “God Bless America,” with the entire ballroom on its feet.

Political Undertones in a Festive Setting

While the evening was designed as a patriotic celebration, politics were never far from the surface. Just hours before the gala, Mayor Adams publicly doubled down on his mayoral campaign, brushing aside speculation of a possible exit. At Cipriani, Adams was greeted politely – but the room roared when Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa was announced, highlighting the unique political currents swirling through the city and this radio community.

Still, the prevailing message was unity and celebration. “We celebrate America together,” said Greenwood before launching into his anthem. It was a fitting capstone to an event that blended entertainment, politics, and philanthropy in a way unique to WABC.

As the gala wound down, guests departed with gift bags in hand, many still humming Greenwood’s refrain. With its mix of glamour, gravitas, and good causes, the 2025 WABC Gala set the stage not just for America’s 250th birthday, but also for the enduring influence of talk radio as a cultural and political force.

Robert Pearl is a New York City-based freelance journalist.  He can be reached at pearlknows@yahoo.com.

Industry Views

Are Your AI Logos Actually Kryptonite?

By Matthew B. Harrison
TALKERS, VP/Associate Publisher
Harrison Media Law, Senior Partner
Goodphone Communications, Executive Producer

imgSuperman just flew into court – not against Lex Luthor, but against Midjourney. Warner Bros. Discovery is suing the AI platform, accusing it of stealing the studio’s crown jewels: Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Scooby-Doo, Bugs Bunny, and more.

At first glance, you might shrug. “That’s Warner Bros. vs. Silicon Valley – what does it have to do with my talk media show?” Here’s the answer: everything. If you or your producer are using Midjourney, DALL·E, or Stable Diffusion for logos, promos, or podcast cover art, you’re standing in the same blast radius.

AI Isn’t Neutral Paint

The romance of AI graphics is speed and cost. Need a logo in five minutes? A flyer for a station event? A podcast cover? Fire up an AI tool and you’re done.

But those images don’t come from a blank canvas. They come from models trained on copyrighted works – often without permission. Warner Bros. alleges that Midjourney not only trained on its characters but knowingly let users download knockoff versions.

If Warner wins – or even squeezes a settlement – AI platforms will clamp down. Suddenly, the “free” art you’ve been posting may not just vanish; it may become a liability.

Too Small to Matter? Think Again

Here’s the legal catch: infringement claims don’t scale by size. A podcaster with a Facebook page is just as liable as a network if the artwork copies protected content.

It’s easy to imagine a rival, competitor, or ex-producer spotting an AI-made graphic that looks “too much like” something else – and firing off a takedown. Once that happens, you’re judged not by intent but by what you published.

Unlike FCC guardrails for on-air speech, there’s no regulator to clarify. This is civil court. You versus the claimant – and the billable hours start immediately.

Even Elon Musk Just Got Burned

Neuralink – Elon Musk’s brain-computer startup – just lost its bid to trademark the words “Telepathy” and “Telekinesis.” Someone else filed first.

If Musk’s lawyers can’t secure simple branding terms, what chance does your station or company have if you wait until after launch to file your new show name? Timing isn’t just strategy; it’s survival.

The Playbook

  1. Audit Your AI Use. Know which graphics and promos are AI-generated, and from what platform.
  2. File Early. Register show names and logos before the launch hype.
  3. Budget for Ownership. A real designer who assigns you copyright is safer than a bot with murky training data.

The Bottom Line

AI may feel like a shortcut, but in media law it’s a trapdoor. If Warner Bros. will defend Superman from an AI platform, they won’t ignore your podcast artwork if it looks too much like the Man of Steel.

Big or small, broadcaster or podcaster – if your AI Superman looks like theirs, you’re flying straight into Kryptonite.

Matthew B. Harrison is a media and intellectual property attorney who advises radio hosts, content creators, and creative entrepreneurs. He has written extensively on fair use, AI law, and the future of digital rights. Reach him at Matthew@HarrisonMediaLaw.com or read more at TALKERS.com.

Industry News

Ben Shapiro Show Jumps in August Podcast Ranker

Podtrac releases its Top Podcasts ranker for August based on unique monthly audience for participatingimg publishers and the top three shows remain, in order, “NPR News Now” at #1, The New York Times’ “The Daily” at #2 and “Up First from NPR” at #3. The big mover during August was The DailyWire’s “The Ben Shaprio Show,” which leaped five places to land at the #8 spot. See the complete ranker here.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Water You Known For?

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imgMy kitchen faucet wouldn’t shut off. It died, of old age. Things start doing that when your “new” house turns 25.

With replacement hardware inbound from – where else? – Amazon, we’re coping, filling pitchers in the first-floor loo. Yet, days later, we still reach for the broken kitchen faucet, force-of-habit.

WHAT IF someone pushes your station’s button, or goes to download your podcast, and nothing comes out?im

What are you known-for? What would be missed if you weren’t still doing it?

Explain that-you-do what-you-do-well, things listeners thirst for, especially things they can only get from you. And make every effort to deliver.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a media consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

Shelli Sonstein Shares Loss of Adult Daughter

Q104 New York morning personality Shelli Sonstein reveals that the reason she was off the air last week was due to the death of her daughter Dina Sonstein Berman, who they believe intentionally overdosed at age 38. Sonstein asked that her message be shared with our industry and beyond. You can read it here.

Industry News

Brother Wease Out as iHeartMedia Flips WAIO-FM, Rochester to Rock

imgAfter 40 years on the air in the Rochester market, legendary radio personality Brother Wease is exiting iHeartMedia’s talk WAIO-FM where he’s been hosting the late morning show for the past two years (he’d been hosting the morning drive show there since November of 2008). According to the Democrat & Chronicle, Brother Wease told his audience that the company is flipping the talk station to rock and he, along with air personality Deanna King, are being let go. Brother Wease launched his on-air career on rock WCMF in 1984 in overnights and moved to morning drive in 1985. The show took off and became a highly successful one in the market for years. He left WCMF in late 2007 after contract talks with then-Entercom broke down and resurfaced on WAIO. Read the Democrat & Chronicle story here.

Industry News

War of Words Breaks Out Between FOX and Newsmax Over Lawsuit

Yesterday, TALKERS reported the anti-trust lawsuit Newsmax is filing against Fox Corporation and Fox News Network, LLC in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida in which Newsmaximg accuses FOX of “engaging in an extensive and unlawful campaign to block competition in the market for right-leaning pay television news, including Newsmax.” imgA FOX spokesperson responded with the following: “Newsmax cannot sue their way out of their own competitive failures in the marketplace to chase headlines simply because they can’t attract viewers.” Newsmax issued the following statement in response to that saying, “If Newsmax was such a ratings failure, why has FOX spent so much time, energy, and resources to suppress us, block us, and denigrate us? The answer is obvious. Also please note that FOX in its statement does not deny any of our serious allegations.”

Industry News

Kentucky Governor’s Podcast Joins SiriusXM

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear signs a new deal to bring his podcast to the SiriusXM Podcast Network. Episodes will also air on the SiriusXM Progress channel. As part of the deal, SiriusXM Media acquires exclusive global ad sales rights to the audio edition of the podcast. In addition to the podcast, Governorimg Beshear will host a new series of live specials, “Andy Beshear Presents,” airing exclusively on SiriusXM Progress. The series will premiere Tuesday, September 9 at 12:00 noon ET. Beshear will be joined by fellow Progress host John Fugelsang and will take calls from listeners across the country. Governor Beshear says. “I want this podcast to be a space to bring people together – especially in such a stressful and divisive time in our country. This is a conversation with friends and we talk about things that matter to all of us: sports, politics, pop culture, our kids. I’m excited to expand this conversation with listeners across the country on SiriusXM, highlighting a wide range of voices and ideas that can help move us all forward, together.”

Industry News

Bold Gold Newsman Mike Sakell to Retire

Bold Gold Media announces that Catskills news & sports director Mike Sakell is retiring from his role with the company after more than four decades broadcasting in the region. Sakell first began working in Sullivan County in 1980 when he joined WVOS. Bold Gold Media NY region general manager Dawn Ciorciari says,img “There are certain sounds that define a place, and for Sullivan County, Mike’s voice is one of them. For 45 years, it’s been the sound of calm, trust, and perseverance. His life has been a true lesson in resilience. His legacy will live far beyond the airwaves.” Bold Gold Media CEO Vince Benedetto adds, “Mike’s retirement is truly an end of an extraordinary and historic era in local broadcasting. In every way, he was ‘The Voice of Sullivan County.’ He will be missed by all of our listeners, and most of all, by all of us in Bold Gold. His example of broadcast excellence will endure and be carried on by all of us who have learned so much from him. We wish him a wonderful retirement and thank him for his long, distinguished service to our communities.” Sullivan County native Dylan Price is assuming the  Catskills news & sports director role.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Marketing/Promotions Coordinator

Lotus Seattle is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented marketing/promotions coordinator. Lotus says, “Thisimg role is vital to bringing our brand to life through on-air, digital, and community engagement initiatives. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working with people, and bring creative energy to our promotions and marketing efforts. See more about this position and apply here.

Industry News

WHYY and PRX to Syndicate “Sports in America”

WHYY, Philadelphia and public media distributor PRX are launching “Sports in America,” a new weekly public radio show and podcast hosted by journalist David Greene, on Tuesday, September 30. PRX is representing the show from WHYY in the public radio marketplace and also serves as podcast distributor. Greene comments, “I’ve always felt unique in the public radio world. I love immersive conversations thatimg breathe, peel back layers, and allow a person to reveal their truth. I’m also an obsessive – and my wife would say, annoying – sports fan who will joyously listen to hours of loud Pittsburgh sports talk radio. What’s missing in my life? A show that honors the best of what we do in public media and also brings the spark and energy sports fans relish. We’ve nailed it with ‘Sports in America.’ And what better time than now, as sports are one rare thing we all still show up for together.” Greene hosted NPR’s “Morning Edition” for more than a decade and hosted NPR’s morning news podcast, “Up First.” He also serves as the host of public radio’s politics program “Left, Right & Center” from KCRW and PRX.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Marketing/Promotions Coordinator

Lotus Seattle is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented marketing/promotions coordinator. Lotus says, “Thisimg role is vital to bringing our brand to life through on-air, digital, and community engagement initiatives. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working with people, and bring creative energy to our promotions and marketing efforts. See more about this position and apply here.

Industry News

Report: Bernstein Owns Mistakes That Led to Firing

Chicago sports media personality Dan Bernstein tells Axios that his dismissal from Audacy’s WSCR “Theimg Score” in March as the result of a social media rant against a critic was his fault. He says, “I own my mistakes. This was the culmination of a slow, rolling mental health crisis.” Bernstein recently began working with Hubbard’s 312 Sports platform on the daily podcast “Dan Bernstein: Unfiltered” with co-host Matt Abbatacola. He says, “I learned a lot in therapy, and I’m continuing to learn a lot about the dopamine outrage cycle and how real that is and how my brain chemistry works.” He adds, “I think I’ll be better served by the pace and tone of podcasting.” Read the Axios piece here.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Marketing/Promotions Coordinator

Lotus Seattle is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented marketing/promotions coordinator. Lotus says, “Thisimg role is vital to bringing our brand to life through on-air, digital, and community engagement initiatives. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working with people, and bring creative energy to our promotions and marketing efforts. See more about this position and apply here.

Industry Views

When “Sharing” Becomes Stealing: TALKERS’ 90-Second Lesson in Fair Use

By Matthew B. Harrison

TALKERS, VP/Associate Publisher
Harrison Media Law, Senior Partner
Goodphone Communications, Executive Producer

imgNinety seconds. That’s all it took. One of the interviews on the TALKERS Media Channel – shot, edited, and published by us – appeared elsewhere online, chopped into jumpy cuts, overlaid with AI-generated video game clips, and slapped with a clickbait title. The credit? A link. The essence of the interview? Repurposed for someone else’s traffic.

TALKERS owns the copyright. Taking 90 seconds of continuous audio and re-editing it is infringement.

Could they argue fair use? Maybe, but the factors cut against them:

  • Purpose: Clickbait, not commentary or parody.
  • Nature: Original journalism leans protective.
  • Amount: Ninety seconds may be the “heart” of the work.
  • Market Effect: If reposts draw views, ad revenue, or SEO, that’s harm.

And here’s the key point: posting free content doesn’t erase its market value. Free journalism still generates reputation, sponsorships, and ad dollars. Courts consistently reject the idea that “free” means “up for grabs.”

Enforcement options exist. A DMCA notice can clear a repost quickly. Repeat offenders risk bans. On-screen branding makes copying obvious, and licenses can set terms like “share with credit, no remix.”

But here’s the hard truth: a takedown won’t stop the AI problem. Once a clip circulates, it’s scraped into datasets training text-to-video and voice models. Deleting the repost doesn’t erase cached or mirrored copies. Think of it like pouring a glass of water into the ocean – you can’t get it back. And to make matters worse, enforcement doesn’t stop at U.S. borders. Different countries have different copyright rules, making “justice” slow, uneven, and rarely satisfying.

That TALKERS interview may now live inside billions of fragments teaching machines how people speak. You can win the takedown battle and still lose the training war. Courts are only starting to address whether scraping is infringement. For now, once it’s ingested, it’s permanent.

Creators face a constant tension: content must spread to grow, but unchecked sharing erodes control. The challenge in 2025 is drawing that line before your work becomes someone else’s “content.”

The law is still on your side – but vigilance matters. Use takedowns when necessary. Brand so the source is clear. Define sharing terms up front. And remember: free doesn’t mean worthless.

The real question isn’t just “Is it fair use?” It’s “Who controls the story?”

Matthew B. Harrison is a media and intellectual property attorney who advises radio hosts, content creators, and creative entrepreneurs. He has written extensively on fair use, AI law, and the future of digital rights. Reach him at Matthew@HarrisonMediaLaw.com

Industry News

Charlamagne Tha God Partners with Mental Wealth Alliance for Mental Wealth Expo

iHeartMedia New York and Charlamagne Tha God are partnering with Mental Wealth Alliance to celebrate World Mental Health Day by hosting the fifth annual Mental Wealth Expo on October 11, 2025 at the Joel and Diane Bloom Wellness and Events Center at NJIT in Newark, NJ. Charlamagne Tha God says, “As we prepare for the fifth annual Mental Wealth Expo, my excitement continues to grow. Partnering with iHeartRadio and Mental Wealth Alliance each year to invest in our collective mental wealth, fills me with pride. With the guidance and support of Dr. Alfiee [Breland-Noble] as our chief mental wealth officer, we are creating spaces of hope, healing and empowerment that uplift Black communities and beyond. This isn’t just about talking about mental health, it’s about transforming how we experience it together.”

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Marketing/Promotions Coordinator

Lotus Seattle is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented marketing/promotions coordinator. Lotus says, “Thisimg role is vital to bringing our brand to life through on-air, digital, and community engagement initiatives. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working with people, and bring creative energy to our promotions and marketing efforts. See more about this position and apply here.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Unmet Needs?

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imgLast week’s column previewed “CeaseFire,” C-SPAN’s antidote to the caricature cable news shouting match. Thanks to all who offered feedback when we wondered “WHAT IF…?” for talk radio.

Recent report from Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism: People are disabling news alerts, “either because they feel they get too many or because they are not useful.”

People are anxious. Even a robot can read-the-room, as I learned by asking ChatGPT: “In USA society generally, list unmet needs.” Among them:

Belonging Without Division

— People crave community but are tired of being forced to choose sides.
— Unmet need: A way to feel connected and purposeful without being tribalized by politics, race, class, or ideology.

Trusted, Nuanced Information

— There’s information overload, but trust is at an all-time low.
— Unmet need: Sources that feel both credible and fair-minded, without sensationalism, bias, or agenda-chasing.

Civility in Public Discourse

— Public conversation often feels like a battleground.
— Unmet need: Spaces — digital or real-world — where disagreement is safe, not destructive or humiliating.

im

Mental & Emotional Support

— Rising anxiety, loneliness, and burnout affect people across all ages.
— Unmet need: Accessible, non-stigmatized mental health support, including community-based emotional infrastructure (not just therapy apps).

Work That Feels Worthwhile

— Many jobs pay the bills but feel meaningless.
— Unmet need: Opportunities to do work that’s valued, not just productive — where dignity and contribution matter as much as output.

Financial Security That Isn’t Fragile

— Even middle-class households feel one emergency away from disaster.
— Unmet need: Stability and predictability — not just income, but housing, healthcare, and retirement that won’t evaporate with one bad break.

Intergenerational Connection

— Older and younger generations increasingly live in separate realities.
— Unmet need: Meaningful contact across age lines, where wisdom flows both directions — not just tech tutoring and nursing homes.

Shared Purpose

— Many feel like they’re drifting — or living someone else’s script.
— Unmet need: A sense of contribution to something bigger than self, not through ideology but through everyday roles, responsibilities, and relationships.

Consider as you pose call-in topics and choose interview guests.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a media consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Marketing/Promotions Coordinator

Lotus Seattle is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented marketing/promotions coordinator. Lotus says, “Thisimg role is vital to bringing our brand to life through on-air, digital, and community engagement initiatives. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working with people, and bring creative energy to our promotions and marketing efforts. See more about this position and apply here.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Marketing/Promotions Coordinator

Lotus Seattle is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented marketing/promotions coordinator. Lotus says, “Thisimg role is vital to bringing our brand to life through on-air, digital, and community engagement initiatives. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working with people, and bring creative energy to our promotions and marketing efforts. See more about this position and apply here.

Industry Views

The Annual (Radio Station) Physical

By Jonathan Little
TroyResearch
President

imgAn annual physical is a wise idea. Doc asks, “How are you doing?”. Then he or she asks some detailed questions based on your medical history. Then “how have you been feeling? Any issues?” Doc always orders blood draws to see what might be lurking. Is the statin drug keeping your cholesterol in check? Are you getting plenty of exercise, plenty of sleep? How’s your diet? Over the years, I’ve visited about my health with at least a dozen different doctors. I’m convinced that the good ones always ask good questions and then listen carefully. Good questioner – good listener. That’s the doc I can respect and put my trust in. 

If you operate a radio station, your station could benefit from an annual physical. You already know how it’s doing based on ratings, revenue, and profit. Your listeners know how you’re doing for them personally because they’re the users of your radio product. Is it pleasing, challenging, inspiring or annoying, irritating, and easily ignored with a click? If you ask them, they’ll tell you. You should ask them at least once a year. 

TroyResearch has been in the business of asking listeners what they think for 27 years. We recently teamed up with Midwest Communications, Inc., in Green Bay to conduct an exploratory research project with their news/talk station WTAQ. TroyResearch’s association with MCI goes back nearly 27 years, doing music and perceptual research for the Duke Wright music stations. The WTAQ project was something new. Our goal was to discover what actionable data the opinions of loyal listeners might produce. TroyResearch worked with VP Programming Jeff McCarthy and Operations Manager Jason Hillery to develop a 25-question study. 

Survey respondents were recruited over the air and were encouraged to go to the WTAQ website to take a brief survey. Clearly, we wanted to hear from P1’s, those listeners who produce 60%+ of reported listening. Their answers provided a clear picture of WTAQ loyalists – what they like, what they don’t like, their political affiliation, their listening behaviors (radio, podcasts, TV news, cable news, etc.), favorite news outlets, trustworthiness of news outlets, their thoughts about protests becoming riots, and their favorite podcasts to mention a few. 

More than 200 respondents, Persons 18+, completed the WTAQ perceptual study. (32% 18-54, 68% 55+). With Jeff’s and Jason’s permission, we share some results. 

Political Affiliation

1% Democrat
78% Republican
15% Independent
6% Other, like Libertarian, Socialist

In car listening

80% Local radio
10% Satellite radio
6% Streaming services like Spotify
3% Podcasts
1% Other like personal playlists 

Listening to WTAQ, which simulcasts

76% FM
9% AM
8% Streaming from WTAQ app
6% Streaming from a smart device
1% Streaming from WTAQ.com

Where do you get your news? (Select all that apply)

93% Radio
46% Broadcast TV (local channels)
41% Cable news like Fox, CNN, MSNBC
29% Social Media like X, Facebook, Tiktok
16% Internet news like NY Post, Washington Post
10% Newspaper
12% Other 

Your primary news source

58% Radio
15% Cable news like Fox, CNN, MSNBC
8% Broadcast TV (local channels)
7% Internet news like NY Post, Washington Post
7% Social Media like X, Facebook, Tiktok
3% Other
1% Newspaper

When does a protest/demonstration become a riot? (Select all that apply)

85%+ When protesters strike police, throw projectiles, set fires, do property damage
75% When protesters spit on police officers
60% When protesters burn the American flag
37% When protesters curse at police officers

Do you listen to podcasts?

23% Frequently
29% Occasionally
35% Rarely
13% Never

What podcast platform do you use? (Select all that apply)

32% YouTube
25% Spotify
19% iHeart
19% Apple
10% Amazon
2% Rumble
1% The Blaze
1% Daily Wire 

As a broadcaster that reports news and information, WTAQ is interested in knowing how trustworthy you consider the reporting presented by these companies. (1 = very untrustworthy, 5 = very trustworthy)

4.43 WTAQ Radio, Green Bay
3.78 Fox News
3.59 Fox 11, Green Bay
2.92 WBAY, Channel 2, Green Bay
2.83 WFRV, Channel 5, Green Bay
2.77 WHBY Radio, Appleton
2.71 NBC 26, Green Bay
2.22 Green Bay Press Gazette
2.01 Wisconsin State Journal
1.99 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
1.46 MSNBC
1.37 CNN 

WTAQ asked the 0-10 Customer Endorsement Score question – “On a scale of 0-10 how likely would you be to recommend WTAQ to a friend or colleague?” Those scores reflect the listeners’ opinions of how the station is doing and it’s a forecast of WTAQ’s future. As a rule, a CES of 50 or higher indicates a healthy and sustainable product. WTAQ scored a strong 73 Customer Endorsement Score. 

VP Jeff McCarthy and OM Jason Hillery are pleased with the results of this exploratory study. The WTAQ Sales Team is delighted with the data. 

Good questioner … Good listener! WTAQ asked good questions. And now their leadership team is “listening” to the answers and determining what adjustments, if any, may result in improved ratings, revenue, and profit, on the way to an 80 Customer Endorsement Score with the next WTAQ study. 

Jonathan Little is president of TroyResearch. He can be phoned at 608-219-1077 or emailed via: jlittle@troyresearch.net

Industry News

NPR Remains Atop Triton Digital Podcast Ranker

Triton Digital publishes its July 2025 U.S. podcast ranker based on weekly average downloads for publishers who opt in and NPR’s “NPR New Now” and “Up First” stay in the #1 and #2 spots, respectively.img Salem Podcast Network’s “The Charlie Kirk Show” remains ranked #5 while Cumulus Podcast Network’s “Shawn Ryan Show” rises one place to #6. Other talk radio related shows of note include: Cumulus Podcast Network’s “VINCE” dipping three places to #13; iHeart Audience Network’s “Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show” rising two places to # 14; and Cumulus Podcast Network’s “Mark Levin Show” falling six places to #35. See the complete ranker here.

Industry News

Michael DelGiorno Show Hits 100-Affiliate Mark

Premiere Networks is celebrating the 100-affiliate mark for “Your Morning Show with Michael DelGiorno.” This comes as iHeartMedia’s WKIP, Poughkeepsie “NewsRadio 1450/1370 WKIP” adds the show to theimg 6:00 am to 9:00 am slot. DelGiorno comments, “I love every listener and city equally, but I’d place Poughkeepsie in the memorable class alongside Nashville (my first affiliate), Detroit (my 50th), and now Poughkeepsie (100th). I’ll always remember this moment! I’m thrilled to be on the Hudson River, serving this great audience, and I look forward to seeing where the river leads me in the months and years ahead.”

Industry News

RTDNA Announces National Murrow Winners

The Radio Television Digital News Association announces the winners of the 2025 national Edward R.img Murrow Awards for Television, Radio and Digital news operations at the network, large market and small market levels. Radio Network winners include ABC News, NPR and Canada’s CBC. Radio station winners include: KMOX, St. Louis; WSB, Atlanta; WTOP, Washington; and WWNC, Asheville. The presentation of the awards will take place on October 13 at Gotham Hall in New York City. See all the winners here.

Industry Views

SABO SEZ: The Future Will Include a Need for Talk Show Hosts

By Walter Sabo
a.k.a. Walter Sterling, Host
WPHT, Philadelphia, “Walter Sterling Every Damn Night”
And TMN syndicated, “Sterling on Sunday”

imgThe problem with technocrats is they believe computer programs and machines solve all problems. A technocrat in charge of a business will it kill it, for sure.  For example, once a movie theatre is automated, not requiring a pesky projectionist or even a snack counter attendant, you and I would still not buy a ticket – unless the theater was showing an actual MOVIE!

A radio company can “invest” in automation systems like Wide-orbit, saving an outrageous 15 bucks an hour for a “board op” or NexGen or NewsBoss. None of those systems win a single Nielsen meter.

The future of the radio medium is determined by its ability to attract an audience. Audience is obviously not built by technology but by compelling hosts. This phenomenon is eternal. For over 100 years, listeners have been attracted by personalities, ideas, information, songs, jokes, passion.

PREDICTION: Tech, AI will not replace any truly talented talk radio host by a mile.

One More Thought: Write a Letter

What can a host do to secure their essential participation beyond prepping a show? Write a letter! My Dad was a retailer who bought a lot of radio time. In his office he had a credenza of awards, family photos, and… framed letters from radio personalities. Spending hours in the car with a radio voice turns that voice into a star. Receiving a letter from a star is a life event. My Dad framed the letters he got from his favorite radio stars who hosted the shows he sponsored.

All the damn spots we air are actually invitations to send fan mail to the advertisers. Cheesy, yes, but the autograph industry is robust. The more ways a host engages with advertisers and listeners (touchpoints), the more secure their job becomes.

Walter Sabo has been a C Suite action partner for companies such as SiriusXM, Hearst, Press Broadcasting, Gannett, RKO General and many other leading media outlets. His company HITVIEWS, in 2007, was the first to identify and monetize video influencers.. His nightly show “Walter Sterling Every Damn Night” is heard on WPHT, Philadelphia. His syndicated show, “Sterling On Sunday,” from Talk Media Network, airs 10:00 pm-1:00 am ET, and is now in its 10th year of success. He can be reached by email at sabowalter@gmail.com.

Industry News

Newsmax Set to Host Major Celebration in Israel Tomorrow (8/13)

Newsmax is set to host its fourth annual “Fourth of July” celebration in Israel tomorrow (8/13) bringing together an elite gathering of political, business, and media leaders including personalities from American talk radio.  The high-profile event will take place at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Jerusalem, which has become a highlight of the summer social calendar in Israel.

Newsmax logo

Newsmax holds this reception each year to celebrate what the company describes as “the enduring friendship and shared democratic values between the United States and Israel.” This year’s celebration will be marked by a special appearance from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.  Netanyahu is expected to speak at about 1 p.m. EST in the U.S. with the address carried live on the Newsmax and Newsmax2 networks.

“America and Israel share a deep and unbreakable bond grounded in freedom, democracy, and mutual respect,” said Christopher Ruddy, CEO of Newsmax. “This gathering is an opportunity to celebrate those ties while also fostering dialogue and cooperation among leaders in politics, media, and business.”

The event comes at a time when Newsmax’s global footprint continues to expand, with its coverage now available in more than 100 countries across five continents.

Industry News

FCC Commissioner Gomez Issues Scathing Statement on Paramount-Skydance Merger

FCC Commissioner Anna M. Gomez has made no secret of the fact that she’s horrified not by the merger itself but with Paramount’s acquiescence to the Trump Administration in seeking approval to merge with Skydance. Here is her statement in full: “Today marks the final chapter of a dark moment in our nation’s history. After months of cowardly capitulation, including an unprecedented payout to settle a meritless lawsuit in exchange for regulatory approval, Paramount and Skydance have completed their merger, and ‘New Paramount’ will be created.

“This will be a new company, born in shame after trading away fundamental First Amendment principles inimg pursuit of pure profit. It embraced this Administration’s radical notion that discriminatory behavior should be tolerated and even embraced, while efforts to expand opportunity for everyone should be rejected.

“More alarmingly, the company agreed to never-before-seen forms of government control over newsroom decisions and editorial judgment – actions that violate both the First Amendment and the law. A government-sanctioned ‘truth arbiter’ will soon arrive at CBS. Their role will be to ensure that journalists at CBS do not criticize this Administration or express views that conflict with its agenda. That should alarm anyone who values the core democratic principle of a free and independent press.

“All of this is being carried out under the guise of combating so-called ‘media bias,’ a term which, in practice, appears to encompass anything or anyone who disagrees with this Administration. Never mind that those now feigning concern over media bias are the same individuals who have spent the past decade attacking the press and sowing public distrust in journalism. And even if such bias did exist to the extent they claim, the last entity the American people should entrust with defining or policing it is the federal government.

“Sadly, this will not be the end of this Administration’s campaign of intervention in media to silence critics, gain favorable coverage, and impose ideological conformity on newsrooms that should remain independent. With longstanding institutions like CBS compromised in this way, it will be up to us – as citizens – to hold this Administration accountable for its abuses.

“I urge others to take notice and find their courage. And I will continue to call out cowardly corporate capitulation for what it is: a betrayal – not just of journalistic independence, but of the public trust.

“Because if the First Amendment is to mean anything at all, it must mean that no government –regardless of party – gets to decide what is true, who gets heard, or which voices are silenced.”

Industry Views

When the Library Talks Back

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By Matthew B. Harrison
TALKERS, VP/Associate Publisher
Harrison Media Law, Senior Partner
Goodphone Communications, Executive Producer

imgImagine SiriusXM acquires the complete Howard Stern archive – every show, interview, and on-air moment. Months later, it debuts “Howard Stern: The AI Sessions,” a series of new segments created with artificial intelligence trained on that archive. The programming is labeled AI-generated, yet the voice, timing, and style sound like Stern himself.

Owning the recordings might suggest the right to create new works from them. In reality, the answer is more complicated – and the music industry offers a useful comparison.

Music Industry Precedent

Sony, Universal, and others have spent hundreds of millions buying music catalogs from artists such as Bob DylanBruce SpringsteenPaul Simon, and Queen. These deals often include both composition rights and master recordings, giving the buyer broad control over licensing and derivative works.

In music, the song and the recording are the assets. In talk content, the defining element is the host’s persona – voice, cadence, and delivery – which changes the legal analysis when creating new material.

Copyright and Persona Rights

Buying a talk archive usually transfers copyright in the recordings and any scripts. That permits rebroadcast, excerpts, and repackaging of original programs.

It does not automatically transfer the host’s right of publicity – control over commercial use of their name, likeness, and in many states, their distinctive voice. In Midler v. Ford Motor Co. (1988), the court ruled that imitating Bette Midler’s voice in a commercial without consent was an unauthorized use of her identity.

This means a company can own the shows without having the right to make new performances in the host’s voice unless the contract clearly grants that right.

The AI Factor

AI technology can replicate a host’s voice, tone, and style with high accuracy, producing entirely new programming.

Outside broadcasting, a recent AI-generated George Carlin special – written by humans but performed by a voice model trained on decades of his work – sparked debate about rights and legacy.

In talk radio, similar AI use could create “new” episodes featuring well-known hosts. Even with clear labeling, right-of-publicity claims may arise if the host or their estate never authorized it. Disclaimers may address consumer confusion but do not remove identity-rights issues.

Why It Matters

This applies to more than national figures. Any broadcaster or podcaster with a substantial archive could face it. Selling or licensing a library could give the buyer the tools to replicate your voice without your participation.

For buyers, the ability to produce new content from archived material has commercial appeal. But without the right to use the host’s voice for new works, it carries significant legal and reputational risk.

Contracts Decide

The key is in the contract:

— Did the talent assign rights to their name, likeness, and voice for future works?
— Is use limited to original recordings or extended to derivative works?
— Does it address future technologies, including AI?

Older agreements often omit these points, leaving courts to decide. Future contracts will likely address AI directly.

Takeaways

For talent: Know what you are transferring. Copyright ownership does not necessarily include your future voice.

For buyers: Owning an archive does not automatically give you the right to create AI-generated new material in the original host’s voice.

For everyone: As AI advances, control over archives will depend on the contracts that govern them.

Matthew B. Harrison is a media and intellectual property attorney who advises radio hosts, content creators, and creative entrepreneurs. He has written extensively on fair use, AI law, and the future of digital rights. Reach him at Matthew@HarrisonMediaLaw.com or read more at TALKERS.com.

Industry News

WGN’s Dave Eanet to Retire; Andy Masur Named AM Sports Anchor

WGN Radio morning drive sports anchor Dave Eanet is retiring from his role on the Bob Sirott morning show. The station announces that Andy Masur will assume the sports anchor position effective August 28. Eanet is not retiring from broadcasting as he’ll continue as play-by-play voice for Northwestern Wildcatimg football and men’s basketball games broadcast on WGN and he’ll also serve as a fill-in anchor on the WGN-TV sports desk. Eanet says, “Can’t believe it’s been 41 years since I first set foot in the WGN studios. As I close this chapter of my career, imgthe word that comes to mind is ‘grateful.’ I’m so thankful to the entire WGN family for their friendship and support over the years. It’s not just the names you know, but the entire crew on and off the air. I’m forever indebted to the managers, engineers, producers, newspeople, sales team, and all the others who have made WGN such a special place to work. Most of all, I’m thankful to the listeners who have a special relationship with this station.” WGN Radio VP and general manager Mary Sandberg Boyle says, “I am thrilled to share that our own Andy Masur will assume morning show sports duties going forward. Andy is a talented broadcaster who has built a rapport with the WGN Radio audience as a regular fill-in for Dave and as our weekend sports anchor. We are lucky to have him.”

Industry News

NewsTalkSTL Hosts to Broadcast from Israel

NewsTalkSTL hosts Tim Jones and Chris Arps will be broadcasting their program from Israel on Tuesday and Wednesday of next week. The station (KNBS-FM, Bowling Green; K270BW, Bellefontaine; and KLJY-HD3, Clayton in Missouri) says the duo will be in Israel all next week providing special coverage as part ofimg a partnership between NewsTalkSTL and Newsmax. NewsTalkSTL says this will be Chris Arps’s second visit to Israel in the past month. His previous trip, which took place during Iranian airstrikes, was a sightseeing tour. This time, he returns as part of a diplomatic delegation organized by Newsmax in coordination with the Israeli government. Tim Jones says, “Traveling to Israel, especially during this consequential time, will be a life changing trip. Experiencing the Holy Land, visiting with top Israeli officials, all while literally walking in the footsteps of Jesus, will be an incredible experience for all of us in NewsTalkSTL nation.” NewsTalkSTL president of programming Jeff Allen says, “It should be an incredible week of content from Tim and Chris. They won’t just be sharing their impressions; they’ll have stories you can only get by being there on the ground.”

Industry News

Nielsen and Edison Collaborate on “Podcast Fusion”

Nielsen announces a new collaboration with Edison Research to launch Nielsen Podcast Fusion powered by Edison Research. Nielsen says, “For the first time, advertisers and agencies will be able to plan, optimize and compare all major media types – including podcasts, TV, radio, digital and social – in oneimg place. This new data fusion will integrate the industry-leading Edison Podcast Metrics into Nielsen’s widely used media planning tool, Nielsen Media Impact img(NMI).” Nielsen adds, “As podcast listenership continues to grow, it is critical for advertisers to have sophisticated tools and data to effectively plan, measure and optimize their audio investments. Nielsen Podcast Fusion in NMI will provide an even more holistic view of media planning and help users uncover valuable insights and demonstrate the effectiveness of their campaigns. NMI users will also be able to optimize media plans by specific podcast networks and genres, as well as top podcast programs.” NPR and Ocean Media are among the charter subscribers at launch.