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The lineup of industry speakers set to speak at the forthcoming GENERATIONS 2025 conference being presented by TALKERS at the forthcoming Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) convention – IBSNYC 2025 – continues to grow.

A stellar line-up of speakers have already signed up to speak at this groundbreaking industry event including (in alphabetical order): Vince Benedetto, CEO, Bold Gold Media Group; Chris Berry, VP News/Talk/Sports, iHeartMedia; Scot Bertram, General Manager, WRFH, Hillsdale College, Hillsdale, MI / Lecturer In Journalism; Mike Gallagher, talk show host, Salem Radio Network; Dom Giordano, talk show host, WPHT, Philadelphia; Lee Harris, Director of Integrated Operations, NewsNation / WGN, Chicago; Michael Harrison, Publisher, TALKERS; Matthew B. Harrison, Esq., VP/Associate Publisher, TALKERS; Harrison Media Law, Senior Partner; Harry Hurley, morning talk show host, WPG, Atlantic City; Jeff Katz, talk show host, WRVA, Richmond, VA; Chad Lopez, President, WABC, New York, Red Apple Media Group; John T. Mullen, general manager, WRHU-FM/WRHU.org, Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY; Walter Sabo (a.k.a. Walter M Sterling), consultant / talk show host / WPHT, Philadelphia / Talk Media Network; Rich Valdés, talk show host, Westwood One; and Lisa Wexler, talk show host, WICC, Bridgeport; with several more to be announced in the next few days. See agenda and accompanying stories below.

Sheraton Times Square New York Hotel
New York East Room
Saturday March 8, 2025
12:30 pm – 4:30 pm

AGENDA

12:30 – 1:00 pm Keynote Address “Welcome to the Brave New World”

Speakers:
Michael Harrison, Publisher, TALKERS
Matthew B. Harrison, Esq., VP/Associate Publisher, TALKERS; Harrison Media Law, Senior Partner

1:10 – 1:40 pm Fireside Chat “Setting the Stage”

Facilitator: Michael Harrison, Publisher, TALKERS
Special Guest: Chad Lopez, President, WABC, New York, Red Apple Media Group

1:50 – 2:20 pm Discussion: “Launching and Managing a Career in Talk Radio / Talk Media”

Moderator: Dom Giordano, talk show host, WPHT, Philadelphia
Speaker: John T. Mullen, general manager, WRHU-FM/WRHU.org, Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY
Speaker: Paul Vandenburgh, owner / talk show host, WGDJ Talk 1300 AM & 98.7 FM, Albany, NY
Speaker: TBA

2:30 – 3:00 pm Discussion: “Old School/New School/Next School – Learning from Each Other”

Moderator:  Harry Hurley, morning talk show host, WPG, Atlantic City
Speaker:  Vince Benedetto, CEO, Bold Gold Media Group
Speaker: Scot Bertram, General Manager, WRFH, Hillsdale College, Hillsdale, MI / Lecturer In Journalism
Speaker: Walter Sabo (a.k.a. Walter M Sterling), consultant / talk show host / WPHT, Philadelphia / Talk Media Network

3:10 – 3:40 pm Discussion: “Radio’s Place in a Diverse, Digital World”

Moderator: TBA
Speaker: Mike Gallagher, talk show host, Salem Radio Network
Speaker: Rich Valdés, talk show host, Westwood One
Speaker: TBA

3:50 – 4:20 pm Discussion: “Finding Truth in an Age of Misinformation”

Moderator: Lee Harris, Director of Integrated Operations, NewsNation / WGN, Chicago
Speaker:  Chris Berry, VP News/Talk/Sports, iHeartMedia
Speaker: Jeff Katz, talk show host, WRVA, Richmond, VA
Speaker: Lisa Wexler, talk show host, WICC, Bridgeport

4:20 – 4:30 pm Wrap Up:  Group Chat

For more information, please see story below.

 

SmileyAudioMedia, Inc. announced today (1/31) that its flagship Los Angeles-based radio station, KBLA Talk 1580, will launch year two of its Climate Justice work. This $2 million, 12-month campaign will link and combat the relationship between climate change and poor health outcomes for African Americans, other people of color, and the poor. The campaign was recently named a national semifinalist for the American Climate Leadership Awards 2025 by ecoAmerica. Climate inequities have taken a toll with multiple health triggers in the Black community, such as extreme heat and poor air quality, made worse by the recent wildfires.

Building on the success of last year’s campaign, KBLA will tailor brand-specific health messaging to the Black community, use strategic alliances to create a healthful behavior pipeline, create culturally and socially sensitive health education opportunities, and enhance knowledge and awareness among Black community stakeholders.

The initiative plans a robust schedule of climate/Black health-themed broadcasts and special programming during the next 12 months, free community events each quarter, a one-of-a-kind Black health online portal, two town halls broadcast nationally from Los Angeles, and a savvy social media and marketing campaign. Last year, KBLA Talk 1580 hosted a national conversation live on C-SPAN. It will do so again this year with the theme, “Narrowing the Gap: Addressing Health Disparities Among African Americans.” KBLA is being joined in this effort by an array of public and private partners.

“The harsher impacts of climate change weigh heavily on communities of color, as we can see with the impact of the wildfires on historic Black communities like Altadena where lives were lost, property was destroyed, and these toxic air pollutants are likely to cause even greater harm in the months and years to come,” stated Tavis Smiley, KBLA’s chief visionary officer, host of the nationally syndicated “Tavis Smiley Show,” and 2023 recipient of the coveted “Freedom of Speech” Award from TALKERS.  “There is real concern that these wildfires may leave even more inequity in their wake.”

As a Black-owned and operated major media company focused on these underserved communities, and as the most ‘trusted, credible and reliable’ media source in Southern California for African Americans and beyond, we are committed to doing more than talk in these troubled times,” added Smiley. “KBLA assigns itself the task of elevating the climate conversation connected to Black health outcomes by amplifying the voices of those who are most impacted by the climate catastrophes we are all witnessing in real-time.”

Beasley Media Group announces the appointment of AJ Lurie as vice president and cluster manager of the company’s New Jersey-based radio properties. Lurie, who also works with Beasley’s Fort Myers radio stations, will lead a diverse portfolio of stations across New Jersey, including WDHA-FM, WMGQ-FM, WCTC-AM, WRAT-FM, WMTR-AM and WJRZ-FM.  Prior to managing Beasley’s Fort Myers market, Lurie served as the director of local market integrated partnerships, where he played a key role in fostering strategic collaborations and increasing revenue opportunities across the company. Lurie also served as MM of Beasley’s Wilmington, Delaware radio property, WJBR-FM, and contributed to the sales development of Beasley Esports. He began his career as an account executive at Beasley’s Southwest Florida cluster.  “AJ’s proven experience, ability to drive results and commitment to localism made him the perfect choice to lead our New Jersey cluster into the future,” said Beasley Media Group COO and EVP, Brian Beasley.  “I look forward to working alongside the talented team in New Jersey to build on their success and continue delivering exceptional results for our listeners, advertisers, and communities,” said Lurie. “I am honored to follow in the footsteps of Dan Finn, whose legacy of excellence has set a high bar for all of us.”  He succeeds Dan Finn, who will officially retire from Beasley at the end of March 2025 after a distinguished career in broadcasting.

 

As Michael Harrison wrote in TALKERS at the start of the new year’s first full week (1/6), “Each year at this time, I am invariably asked by broadcasters, reporters, and friends, ‘What do you think we’ll be talking about in the new year ahead?’  And each year I give the same answer:  THE UNEXPECTED.”

Here we go again. Within what seems like mere moments after the optimistic news broke that California was again gaining population after years of depletion, the apocalyptic wildfires that sprung out of heavy winds and dry conditions in the Pacific Palisades pounced upon L.A. County and circled its metro like a raging beast from hell – thrusting local radio into its familiar role as a vital informational first responder.  Add to that, radio’s invaluable service as an emotional support provider for a confused and terrified public is on display.  TALKERS is receiving reports from Southern California and points throughout the Golden State that radio is, indeed, rising to the occasion with many all-news, talk and public radio outlets taking a wall-to-wall, “all hands-on deck” personnel policy both in studio and remote scenarios. This is especially important in areas where the power has gone out and car or battery-driven radios provide instant access to weather, traffic and other vital facts. The fires have also set off figurative sparks in terms of political finger pointing and emotional venting regarding budgets, preparedness, and general political accountability. Major industries – housing, entertainment, sports, healthcare and public safety – are being shaken to the core. No venue performs the service of unpacking all that on a mass level better than live, local, spoken word radio.

Broadcasters Foundation to the Rescue. As the wildfires continue to rage and spread in the Los Angeles area, the Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) wants to remind broadcasters in Southern California that Emergency Grants are available for those who qualify.  “We have set aside Emergency Grant Dollars to provide financial assistance to broadcasters in LA who are in need,” stated Tim McCarthy, president of the Broadcasters Foundation.

The BFOA Emergency Grant Application Process is streamlined to deliver financial aid to those in need as speedily as possible, usually within weeks.  Historically, it can take a week or more for victims of disasters like these wildfires to apply because their lives have been upended and they may not have immediate access to the internet, etc. For those broadcasters, the BFOA has set up an emergency phone number at 212-373-8250. To apply directly on line, broadcasters may go to www.broadcastersfoundation.org

iHeartMedia announced (1/6) that Nicky Sparrow has been elevated to EVP of multicultural sales and Dee Dee Faison has been elevated to VP of multicultural partnerships and alliances effective immediately. Sparrow and Faison will report to Tony Coles, president of multicultural business and development.  In her new role, Sparrow will continue to focus on driving results for advertising partners by leveraging iHeartMedia’s assets including broadcast radio, podcast, digital, data and events platforms as well as The Black Effect Podcast Network and My Cultura Podcast Network serving multicultural audiences across the country. In her new position, Faison will play a pivotal role in building and driving comprehensive partner programs, including the development and execution strategy to further expand and scale iHeartMedia’s strategic multicultural initiatives. “We’re excited to officially elevate Nicky and Dee Dee to our executive team,” said Coles. “These talented leaders bring a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective that will be instrumental in driving our mission forward of connecting our clients and partners with iHeartMedia’s multicultural audiences.”

 

Newsmax Raises $150 Million in Pre-IPO Plan.*  Newsmax CEO Christopher Ruddy reports “We did it!” According to the ascending multi-platform news organization’s founder, “When we announced our plan to go public, we also announced our plan to raise $150 million in Preferred Shares before we became listed.”  Ruddy tells TALKERS, “I am glad to report Newsmax hit the $150 million* mark over the Christmas-New Year’s holiday. In fact, we have raised $153 million*, having exceeded our target by $3 million. And we have thousands of investors who are still in the process of buying Preferred Shares! So, Newsmax has decided to extend our offering to $175 million – an increase of $25 million above our target raise.”  Ruddy concludes, “Newsmax expects to close on the remaining $22 million remaining very soon.” Read More Here *NOTE: “Raised” includes closed proceeds and investments committed / in process of closing.

Alan Jurison Joins Quu to Lead Innovation and Special Projects.  Quu, Inc., an industry leader providing convenient deployment of visual content for radio, announces today (1/7) that Alan Jurison has joined the company to focus on special projects and innovation. Reporting to Joe Marshall, Quu’s senior director of technical services, Jurison will spearhead initiatives to enhance radio broadcasts with dynamic visual programming and sales messaging.  Jurison brings extensive experience from his time as senior operations engineer at iHeartMedia, where he was known for innovative work in technology and strategy. “Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about elevating radio technology and helping the industry understand the critical role of metadata, especially in the digital dashboard,” Jurison tells TALKERS. “Joining Quu is an incredible opportunity to build on that mission. I’m eager to contribute to this talented team’s efforts to strengthen radio stations’ relationships with their listeners and advertising clients.” “Alan’s innovative mindset and technical expertise make him an exceptional addition to Quu,” said Steve Newberry, CEO of Quu. “His vision aligns perfectly with our goals to help radio boost ratings and generate new revenue through visual solutions that engage and retain audiences.” Alan will be at CES in Las Vegas this week, where he looks forward to connecting with industry peers. Interested in meeting up? Contact Alan at ajurison@myquu.com.

 

2024 has been a dramatic year of challenges, struggles, and measurable change for the nation, society, and our industry of talk radio and its related talk media platforms.  The chart below lists the 10 most talked about Stories, Topics and People discussed on talk shows across the nation during the past 12-month period, according to the research of TALKERS. In some cases, we listed several items as ties – because words and ideas overlap and can be somewhat amorphous. None of these items were discussed in a vacuum – the connections between individual stories and news items, the topics they cover, and the people who played them out under the spotlight of public scrutiny are quite entangled to say the least. We describe some issues as “umbrella” topics. Talk radio also has its own unique focus on populist issues that in many cases tend to be ignored by what is still referred to as the so-called “mainstream” or “legacy” media. (For example, talk radio was talking about public concern over immigration reform long before Donald Trump came down that elevator in 2015.) Conversely, there are “big” stories out there that talk radio leaves to the other media and generally ignores.

The biggest and most challenging issues that faced our industry in 2024 include:

• Economics of the radio industry.  Major companies continued to be preoccupied with financial survival and avoiding bankruptcy. The growing preponderance of layoffs across the industry has been heartbreaking. Can radio afford to do “radio” properly anymore? Talk radio is subject to the trials and tribulations of the larger radio industry. It is not surrounded by a protective force field simply because it is important.

• Podcasting and fractionalization. The burgeoning digital media ecosystem originally spawned and inspired by talk radio’s lead now competes with the medium within the interactive marketplace of ideas.  Talk radio faces the challenge of expanding to a multi-platform environment such as podcasting and video streaming while maintaining its special “radio” esthetic.

• Growing demographic divide.  With each passing year, radio (including talk) faces increasing abandonment by the new crop of adults who weren’t born until after 9/11.  This is a major problem no matter what pro-radio research and ratings company report.

• Freedom of speech.  Not only was the First Amendment under assault in 2024 from a number of directions – but so was an increasing level of intolerance by corporate America and the disease of hyper-wokeness for controversy.  Not good.

• AM radio in the dashboard.  The stated intention of the automobile manufacturers to eliminate AM radios from the dashboards of new vehicles is at least five years premature and extremely damaging to the interests of the public as well as the radio industry. The problem is compounded by the damage this issue does to radio’s image in the business world simply by having it being a much-discussed issue at all.

Let’s resolve to overcome some of these challenges in 2025.  Happy New Year!

 

iHeartMedia Tampa Bay announced (12/18) the addition of several FOX Sports Radio programs to the weekday and weekend lineup at 95.3 WDAE – “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio,” effective Monday, December 23, 2024.  WDAE’s weekday lineup, which already features “The Dan Patrick Show” and “The Herd with Colin Cowherd,” will now also broadcast FOX Sports Radio from 7:00 pm to 6:00 am ET, which includes “The Odd Couple with Kelvin Washington & Rob Parker,” “The Jason Smith Show with Mike Harmon,” and “The Ben Maller Show.” Additionally, WDAE will broadcast FOX Sports Radio around the clock on weekends. “We are thrilled to announce the further expansion of FOX Sports Radio programming to our lineup, which features the best sports content and personalities, both local and national,” said Nick Wize, WDAE program director. “We believe this expansion will provide our audience with even more engaging and insightful sports talk, continuing WDAE’s legacy as the ultimate meeting spot for the Tampa Bay sports fan.”

 

Edison Research with support from LWC Studios, Latino Media Network, Libsyn, SiriusXM Podcast Network, and Uforia Podcasts unveiled the fifth-year anniversary of the “Latino Podcast Listener Report 2024” in a webinar hosted by Gabriel Soto, senior director of research at Edison Research, Elsie Escobar, director of community and content at Libsyn, and Briana Mendez, senior sales marketing manager at SiriusXM Media. The webinar offered up to five years of trending data and new findings about Latino podcast listeners as well as video interviews of podcast creators discussing how they’ve utilized the studies throughout the years. According to the study, 43% of U.S. Latinos age 18+ are monthly podcast listeners, a 72% increase since 2020 (25%).

Key findings include:

• Female listenership is up: Women now account for half of the U.S. Monthly Latino Listening population, making the composition of Latino podcast listeners 50% women and 50% men for the first time.

• Social media is a dominant source for podcast discovery: 47% of U.S. Latino monthly podcast listeners age 18+ first discovered podcasting by seeing it on social media, compared with 30% in 2020.

• YouTube gains share as the service used most often to listen to podcasts: 40% of U.S. Latino monthly podcast listeners age 18+ say they use YouTube the most to listen to podcasts – a 12-point increase from 2020. Thirty percent search on YouTube most often to find out about podcasts.

• Latino podcast listeners’ preference for video podcasts is up: Since 2021, U.S. Latino monthly podcast listeners age 18+ have increased their consumption of video that they actively watch while listening by 23% (2021: 70% vs. 2024: 86%), surpassing audio only podcasts at 72%.

• Gen Z and Millennial U.S. Latino listeners are more likely to listen or watch podcasts with other people: 43% of U.S. monthly Latino podcast listeners age 18+ have listened to or watched podcasts with others. Listeners aged 18–24 are 47% likely to share their podcast listening experience with others, those aged 25–34 are 46%, and those aged 35–44 are the most likely to listen to or watch podcasts with others at nearly half (49%).

• Latinos are spending most of their days with podcasts for entertainment: 78% of U.S. monthly Latino podcast listeners age 18+ “strongly agree” or “somewhat agree” that they listen to podcasts when they want to be entertained – an 8-point increase since 2020.

“Latinos have been trailblazers in podcasting, driving trends from leading the early adoption of YouTube to fueling the rise of video podcast consumption,” said Elsie Escobar, Director of Community and Content at Libsyn. Beyond educational content, Latino listeners are embracing a broader range of podcasts, from entertainment to inspirational stories. This growing diversity creates exciting opportunities for advertisers to connect with a vibrant audience and align brand messaging with their lifestyle interests and values.”

Soto says, “The number of Latinos consuming video podcasts has surpassed the number of those listening to audio-only shows. If the young Latino demographic is any indication of how listening will take shape among the rest of the podcast audience, podcasters will have another reason to consider video as part of their content.”

Click here to download the report.

 

By Walter Sabo
A.K.A. Walter M Sterling, Host
Sterling Every Damn Night, WPHT, Philadelphia
Sterling On Sunday, TMN

A grim day. They fired the whole band. You know who “they” are! Bloated management. The future of radio… ruined!

Year: 1936. Bandleaders took WNEW, New York, to court claiming that it was illegal to play recorded music on the air. Recorded music, conductors believed, stole performance rights fees from musicians. Consequently, Radio stations hired live bands to play music and networks offered live bands to affiliates until the court made a decision on the complaint.

Ultimately, the courts said that as long as a radio station owned the record, they could play it on the air.

Local bands were fired, network bands were fired. The radio industry embraced recorded music when it realized that WNEW’s

DJ Music show, “The Make-Believe Ballroom” was pulling a 25 audience share.

Airing recorded music was legal and moral. But many talented, capable, often union musicians lost their jobs. The radio industry changed.  That change resulted in the viability of modern radio.  Recorded music birthed the business of top 40.  Kids in an Akron record shop discovered “race” music in the back of the store and bought it with passion and speed compelling the retailer to reveal the phenomenon to local DJ Alan Freed. Freed put the songs on the air for a few hours a week… then he labelled the music rock ‘n’ roll.

Rock might never have defined our culture if music selection had been left up to the in-studio live bands. And a one and a two.

But a lot of musicians were fired in 1936.

This month, tragically at the holidays, many of our colleagues have lost their jobs. Time to challenge the aging legacies and rock.

The stage awaits.

Consultant Walter Sabo A.K.A. Walter M Sterling has a nightly show “Sterling Every Damn Night” heard on WPHT, Philadelphia 10:00 pm – 1:00 am. His syndicated show, “Sterling On Sunday,” from Talk Media Network, airs Sundays 10:00 pm – 1:00 am ET, and is now in its 10th year of success. He can be reached by email at waltermsterling@gmail.com or Sabowalter@gmail.com.

 

 

Early Bird Deadline for the Milestone 50th Gracie Awards Approaching. The AWM Foundation invites all content creators to submit their exceptional work for the historic 50th Annual Gracie Awards. With the Early Bird Deadline approaching on December 12, 2024, now is the time to take advantage of discounted entry fees and secure your place in celebrating the best in media. As the Gracie Awards commemorate 50 years of recognizing excellence, it is more important than ever to honor the exceptional talent in front of and behind the camera and microphone across radio, podcasting, television, streaming, and online programs in news and entertainment. The Gracie Awards recognize contributions from journalists, actors, hosts, producers, showrunners, writers, directors, and other roles that bring impactful stories to life. Each entry directly supports the AWM Foundation, with the Gracies serving as the largest fundraiser of the year.  “This year’s milestone celebration reflects our continued commitment to honoring the talent that shapes the stories of our time,” said Becky Brooks, president of the AWM Foundation. “We encourage local media to participate and take advantage of the best rates and prepare to celebrate together in 2025.”  For a complete list of new and updated categories for 2025, pricing, and submission guidelines, please visit https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/call-for-entries/. Questions can be directed to gracies@allwomeninmedia.org.  The Gracie Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation which advances women in media through educational programs and scholarships. The Gracie Awards honors exemplary programming and individual talent created by, for and about women. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with the Emma Bowen Foundation, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), NCTA – The Cable and Telecommunications Association and other organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and the Gracie Awards please visit allwomeninmedia.org. For the latest news on the Gracies, follow The Gracies on Instagram, X, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Broadcasting Consultant Valerie Geller Drops Third Edition of Classic Book. Beyond Powerful Radio – The New Edition: An Audio Communicators Guide to the Digital World (Focal Press 2024).  In this newly updated edition, industry pros as well as aspirants will find a complete guide to becoming a successful communicator. Beyond Powerful Radio teaches time-tested techniques that work in any format – radio, TV, podcast, or digital. Learn how to get, keep, and grow audiences with powerful storytelling, and become a dynamic presenter. This book holds the tools needed to create winning content; tell compelling stories; build your brand; develop talent; produce a show; report the news; sell; and write commercials. Practical tips and methods from over 50 top experts from across the world of media illuminate interviewing, managing talent, becoming an authentic personality, and getting started in the business. This fully revised edition features new sections on podcasting, social media, storytelling, artificial intelligence, and cross platform synergy.  Whether you’re a professional with years in the industry, an instructor with a class full of media hopefuls, or you are just starting out as a podcaster or radio host, this book will help you reach your goals. A full Instructor Manual is available with complete lesson plans for broadcast instructors.  For more info, please click HERE.

Cumulus Media (NASDAQ: CMLS) announces that Nashville’s SuperTalk 99.7 WTN (WWTN-FM) has strengthened its weekday news and talk coverage with multiple lineup additions and moves debuting in January of 2025. Sources at the powerhouse 100,000-watt news/talk station and SuperTalk TV (YouTube)  tell TALKERS the station is committed to providing the best in news and compelling live and local content, and these exciting lineup changes reflect this dedication to delivering top-notch local news coverage and engaging talk programming to listeners.

On-air host Brian Wilson (weekdays from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm), announced his retirement earlier this month, after a 50-year career in broadcasting that included stints at FOX News and WMAL-FM in Washington, D.C., before landing at SuperTalk 99.7 in 2018. Wilson will continue to contribute to SuperTalk 99.7 in a host-at-large role.

Matt Murphy steps in as on-air host, afternoon drive (weekdays from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm), after hosting weekdays on the station from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm for the last three years. Murphy joined SuperTalk 99.7 in 2021 after a 19-year stint with Talk 99.5 WZRR in Birmingham, AL, as both morning show host and program director.

Joining Cumulus Nashville and the new SuperTalk 99.7 lineup is Chad Benson, who will host a live and local show airing weekdays from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm. Benson will continue as host of his syndicated program, “The Chad Benson Show” with Radio America Network. Chad Benson said, “I’m so excited to be a part of this legendary radio station and to work with an incredible team in an amazing city. I look forward to contributing and building strong connections with both listeners and advertisers.”

The station further enhances its news coverage with the addition of veteran broadcast journalist Joan Jones as news anchor in morning drive with current host and 2024 Marconi winner Dan Mandis. Jones is known for her successful 10-year career as morning news anchor for news/talk station WTOP-FM in Washington, D.C. Current SuperTalk 99.7 news anchor Ken Weaver will continue to cover the news desk weekday afternoons from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Allison Warren, VP/MM, Cumulus Nashville, tells TALKERS, “We are thrilled to introduce these exciting changes to our lineup at SuperTalk 99.7 WTN. Each addition and shift reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering the highest quality news and talk programming to our listeners. With a blend of seasoned professionals and fresh voices, we are poised to provide even more engaging and comprehensive coverage for Nashville and Middle Tennessee. We look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence and connecting with our community in new and meaningful ways.”

 

Cumulus Media announces(11/21) that it has promoted Marv Nyren to regional vice president of Cumulus Media in Chicago, IL, and Minneapolis, MN. Nyren currently serves as VP/MM for Cumulus Chicago and adds oversight responsibilities for Cumulus Minneapolis to his purview.  Nyren joined Cumulus Media in 2017 as VP/MM of Cumulus Chicago. Prior to that, he was vice president, corporate sponsorships for Chicago Public Media’s WBEZ-FM. Nyren also held roles as president/regional vice president for iHeartMedia’s 13 radio stations in Jacksonville, FL, and Brunswick, GA, and was regional VP/MM for Emmis Media for 12 years, managing the company’s stations in Chicago, Atlanta, Phoenix, and Indianapolis.  Dave Milner, president, operations, Cumulus Media, tells TALKERS, “Marv brings a wealth of experience across multiple U.S. markets to this expanded role. Known for his highly effective and impactful leadership in Chicago, Marv will be a tremendous asset to our talented teams and strong brands in the Twin Cities.” Marv Nyren comments, “I’m deeply honored and grateful for the opportunity to lead the Cumulus Chicago team, and now, expanding to the Minneapolis market is truly a dream come true. Being part of both teams is a privilege, and I’m excited to contribute and make a positive impact in both markets.”

KIRO Newsradio is announcing the upcoming retirement of one of Seattle’s most influential and trusted broadcasters, Dave Ross. After 47 years with the station, Dave will step down on December 19, leaving a legacy that has deeply impacted both KIRO Newsradio and the Seattle community. In addition to Dave’s retirement, Colleen O’Brien, who has been a key voice on “Seattle’s Morning News” alongside Dave for many years, will also be stepping away from her role. Colleen’s last day on air will also be Friday, December 19th. Colleen has been an integral part of the morning show, providing sharp insights and a compassionate presence to Seattle listeners.

“Dave has not only been a trusted voice in Seattle but a powerful example of journalistic excellence,” said Tanya Vea, president/CEO of Bonneville International. “For nearly five decades, his dedication to truth and commitment to the Seattle community have left a lasting impact on KIRO Newsradio and beyond. We are deeply grateful for his service and the legacy he leaves behind.”  “Dave’s curiosity and talent for making complex topics accessible is truly unique,” Bryan Buckalew, KIRO Newsradio director of news and talk programming said. “While his daily presence will be greatly missed, we honor his extraordinary career and the lasting legacy he has created at KIRO Newsradio.” Dave joined KIRO Newsradio in 1978 as a news reporter and anchor, quickly becoming a trusted voice for listeners across the Pacific Northwest. Known for his thoughtful commentary and balanced perspective, he has encouraged listeners to think critically about important issues for nearly half a century.

In 1987, he began hosting “The Dave Ross Show,” where his engaging storytelling and sense of humor made complex topics accessible and relatable. Since 2013, Dave has anchored “Seattle’s Morning News,” guiding Seattleites through daily headlines with clarity and insight. To celebrate Dave’s remarkable career, KIRO Newsradio will feature special on-air tributes, including appearances and messages from current and former colleagues. Local VIPs and prominent figures in the Seattle community will honor Dave’s legacy. Listeners are invited to share their own memories and tributes on MyNorthwest.com/DaveRoss, commemorating the moments that Dave has touched their lives. The station tells TALKERS, “‘Seattle’s Morning News’ will continue with a new host in 2025, aiming to uphold the high standards that Dave has set over his 47 years with KIRO Newsradio.”

FOX Issues Statement About Duffy.  Former congressman Sean Duffy is now the second FOX TV personality to leave the network to pursue a role in the forthcoming Donald Trump administration following Pete Hegseth who was named as the president-elect’s choice to be Secretary of Defense.  Duffy – a FOX Business host – has received the Trump nod to be Secretary of Transportation.      Duffy is married to Rachel Campos-Duffy, who co-hosts “FOX & Friends Weekend” alongside – until last week – Pete Hegseth.  FOX put out the following statement per Duffy’s departure: “Sean Duffy provided valuable insights and analysis in co-hosting the FOX Business Network program, ‘The Bottom Line.’ As Duffy departs FOX News Media effective today (11/18), we wish him the best of luck in his return to Washington. Moving forward, ‘The Bottom Line‘ will continue with Dagen McDowell joined by rotating co-hosts.”

Raising Awareness All Year Long.  Nationally syndicated, Nevada-based TALKERS Heavy Hundred personality Dr. Daliah Wachs (pictured) never stops teaching and promoting health causes that lead to everything from prevention awareness to blood drives.  She tells TALKERS, “Where breast cancer awareness happens every October but education around this common disease needs to continue year-round.  Mammograms save lives and I’m grateful to Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging for helping make my mammogram and ultrasound testing easy and painless.”  The Steinberg facility has been serving South Las Vegas outpatients for more than 30 years.

 

By Andy Gladding, Ed.D.
WMCA 570 / WNYM 970 Radio, New York
WRHU 88.7 FM, Hofstra University
Chief Engineer

Following the 2024 election cycle, there has been a flurry of conversation and speculation over the diminishing role linear media played in deciding the outcome of high-profile national races. With both the Trump and Harris teams choosing to heavily engage with social media influencers, digital media outlets and podcasters, campaign operatives have demonstrated that they are willing to shift their political ad spending into newer forms of broadcast messaging. This has called into question just how much influence and effectiveness legacy media has over audiences in the current media market.

However, not every country shares this perception. In 2020, WRHU Radio Hofstra University in New York formed an alliance with 89.5FM Bush Radio in Cape Town, South Africa. Bush Radio is the oldest community radio station in South Africa, having long been an established voice for the Cape Town area since the early 1990s. With programming in three languages and a highly diverse staff, the station is deeply ingrained in the fabric of the Cape Town media space. The parallel goals of WRHU and Bush Radio, specifically emphasis on local journalism, community programming and educational radio training, provided a strong foundation for the stations to build this joint venture. The purpose of this partnership was to explore the power and reach of community radio in each station’s respective broadcast area. Since the inception of this relationship, both stations have enjoyed a continuous flow and exchange of ideas, goals and programming, even co-producing a weekly show called “1World Radio,” which highlights news, talk and music content featured WRHU and Bush Radio.

Bush Radio journalists Jasnine Roberts, Lydia Marwanqana, Renato Van Schalkwyk, and Adrian Louw tour the Salem Radio New York facilities with chief engineer Andy Gladding (pictured in rear) and assistant production manager Alex Garrett (pictured in front).

As part of this alliance, the stations were able to engage in a radio exchange program commencing just before the 2024 U.S. elections. With monies gained from a cultural grant, Bush Radio sent five radio journalists abroad to New York and Washington, DC to cover the national elections. The purpose of this trip was for the Bush Radio journalists to have the opportunity to see the American democratic process up close and later report their findings back to the Cape Town listening audience.

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Dr. Andrew Gladding is the chief engineer of the Salem Media stations in New York City – WMCA 570 / WNYM 970 – as well as WRHU 88.7 FM, Hofstra University, where he also serves as a lecturer on communications. He can be reached at 516-527-0764 or andyg@nycradio.com.

iHeartMedia announced today (11/8) that Steve DeLusant has been named region president for the New York market and Adam Kurtz region president for the Chicago market, effective immediately. DeLusant and Kurtz will report to Bernie Weiss, division president, iHeartMedia.  DeLusant and Kurtz will be responsible for managing multiple platforms across New York and Chicago iHeartMedia brands. In these newly appointed positions, both region presidents will work closely with the sales, programming and digital teams for all station brands in the New York and Chicago markets and will also have direct oversight of the respective sales teams.  “I’m thrilled to promote both Steve and Adam. It’s especially rewarding to find the best candidates for key leadership roles in your own buildings,” Weiss tells TALKERS. “They’re extremely knowledgeable about our ever-evolving business and have built some of the best media sales teams in the country. I’m confident that they will continue to elevate our New York and Chicago operations to even greater heights and continue to drive revenue.” Prior to his new role, Steve DeLusant has held the position of SVP of sales for iHeart New York since January 2020.  Earlier in his career, DeLusant was senior account executive for Emmis Communications and a sales associate for WLTW.  Adam Kurtz is a seasoned media veteran with 23 years of sales experience at iHeartMedia including 14 years in sales management.  Kurtz began his media career at WLIT in Chicago where he was an account executive for nine years.