IBS/TALKERS GENERATIONS 2025 Conference Less Than One Month Away!
The launch of a new and innovative TALKERS industry conference – “GENERATIONS 2025” – that will be co-located at the forthcoming Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) national convention – IBSNYC 2025 – is set for Friday and Saturday March 7-8 at the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel. The four-hour TALKERS event will take place between 12:30 pm and 4:30 pm on Saturday, March 8 in the heart of the iconic IBS gathering. It will feature an array of six sessions with 19+ luminary industry speakers including a keynote address, fireside chat, and four panel discussions that will tackle such topics as “Launching and Managing a Career in Talk Radio / Talk Media,” “Old School, New School, Next School: Learning from Each Other,” “Radio’s Place in a Diverse, Digital World,” “Finding and Delivering Truth in an Age of Misinformation,” and much more. TALKERS is also serving as the Presenting Sponsor of the entire IBSNYC 2025 event and will make several special presentations on both days at the conference’s exhibition hall.
In making the announcement TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, “If this great institution of radio is to survive, let alone thrive in the brave new world ahead, it must meet the challenge of connecting with young broadcasters and listeners… and it needs to do it without hesitation. 2025 will be a pivotal year for radio of all formats – especially our bailiwick of talk radio and talk media – on air and online. There is no radio arena featuring such a massive concentration of young broadcasters and listeners alike as that found in the nation’s college radio community.” Harrison adds, “TALKERS is proud to also serve as the IBS convention’s official 2025 Presenting Sponsor as a show of support and recognition of the organization’s great work and importance. We will live up to the theme of this debut event: ‘Old School, New School, Next School: Learning from Each Other.’ That will be a major take away – as well as the suggestion that the time has come for all broadcasters to begin thinking like entrepreneurs!”
The TALKERS “GENERATIONS 2025” segment of the larger IBS conference will be open to all IBSNYC 2025 registrants who will receive the benefits of its notably reasonable rates to attend the conference and reserve rooms at the hotel (hurry). But it is important to move quickly on this while the discounts are still available. For up-to-date information, please click HERE.
For further information about “GENERATIONS 2025” including sponsorship opportunities, please call 413-565-5413 or email info@talkers.com.
direction. Thirty-year company veteran Dave Doetsch – who’d been managing the company’s South Bend and Southwest Michigan operations – is elevated to chief operating officer and chief revenue officer. Rockford, Illinois cluster manager Mike Paterson is promoted to chief financial officer. As a result, Kim DiGiovanni rises from VP/director of sales to general manager for Rockford. The company is in the process of selling its Springfield, Illinois stations to Woodward Communications and after that deal closes, Mid-West Family will own and operate 41 stations in seven markets: Eau Claire, La Crosse, and Madison, Wisconsin; Rockford, Illinois; South Bend, Indiana; St. Joseph-Benton Harbor, Michigan, and Springfield, Missouri.
Amazon’s ART19 hosting platform marks a major evolution for PodcastOne that enhances operational efficiencies while strengthening our monetization capabilities and audience engagement. This strategic move positions us to better serve advertisers and maximize the value of our content across our growing network.” He adds, “PodcastOne remains committed to delivering premium content while expanding our host and advertiser relationships. To date, we have grown our programming slate to 196 shows and surpassed 3.9 billion network downloads through key expansion deals, including our collaboration with A&E’s The History Channel, and the renewal of flagship podcasts hosted by Adam Carolla, Brendan Schaub, and Kaitlyn Bristowe. Looking ahead, we are focused on leveraging our leadership position in podcasting to drive sustainable growth through organic expansion, acquisitions, and strategic initiatives, creating long term value for our creators, partners, and shareholders.”
iHeartMedia Seattle’s Sports Radio 93.3 KJR-FM, announced (2/10) the debut of the new “MJ in the Midday” show, effective immediately. “MJ in the Midday” will broadcast weekdays from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm. MJ in the Midday’s host Marc James, started his sports talk radio career in Miami and Fort Lauderdale in 2004. His career highlights include afternoon drive host for an ESPN radio affiliate in Tampa, FL, WFNZ afternoon drive radio host in Charlotte, NC and morning host on 92.9 “The Game” in Atlanta, GA. His radio career led him to a TV studio anchor position for New England Sports Network (NESN) in Boston, MA, where he also hosted shows on WEEI radio station. Since 2020, James has worked for Sports Talk Florida covering sporting events in the Tampa Bay area and throughout Florida. He also hosted a college football podcast on the BLEAV Network. “Sports Radio 93.3 KJR-FM is literally my dream job,” James tells TALKERS. “I am honored and eternally grateful to become part of this legacy station and its extremely bright future in Seattle.” 
“Marc James joining our family is big for us,” said Rich Moore, VP of programming for iHeartMedia Seattle. “We’re extremely excited to be bringing in a new passionate voice to the Seattle market. Marc’s experience and love for our market will win our listeners over for years to come.” “We’re excited to welcome Marc James to the iconic call letters of KJR,” said Mark Glynn, area president for iHeartMedia Washington. “Marc’s infectious energy plus his dynamic and engaging personality will bring an exciting new spark to Seattle sports talk.”
Edison Research announces the Top 50 Podcasts in the U.S. based on reach for Q4 2024 among weekly podcast listeners age 13+. The list ranks podcasts based on total audience reach from 
To say that I am excited about the forthcoming Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) conference coming up in New York City on Friday March 7 and Saturday March 8 is an understatement. I am proud that TALKERS has taken on the role of “presenting sponsor” of the entire event and that this year’s iteration of the annual “TALKERS” conference will be taking a unique and groundbreaking turn toward the future of radio-oriented broadcasting within the context of the industry’s leading youth-oriented gathering.
If professional radio is truly concerned about an aging audience and a deteriorating “farm system” from which to recruit new talent, it’s time to connect with the largest concentration of young broadcasters and listeners found on the planet in America’s dynamic campus radio station and communications department scene.
pm on Saturday, March 8 in the heart of the iconic IBS gathering. It will feature an array of six sessions with 16+ luminary industry speakers (to be named shortly) including a keynote address, fireside chat, and four panel discussions that will tackle such topics as “Launching and Managing a Career in a Changing Media Industry,” “Old School, New School, Next School: Learning from Each Other,” “Radio’s Place in a Digital World,” “Finding and Delivering Truth in an Age of Misinformation,” and much more. TALKERS will also serve as the Presenting Sponsor of the entire IBSNYC 2025 event.
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.
optimize operations, and deliver even more value to advertisers and content creators alike. Additionally, by leveraging ART19’s advanced tools for dynamic ad insertion, PodcastOne can implement programmatic advertising and direct sponsorship integrations. PodcastOne president and co-founder Kit Gray states, “We’re not only ensuring the stability of our current monetization streams but unlocking new growth opportunities by leveraging ART19’s cutting-edge technology and advertising opportunities. This move underscores our commitment to innovation and delivering exceptional value to our talent, advertisers, listeners and shareholders.”
Offering LLC and says the deadline to apply for shares in the pre-public offering private placement is Friday (1/31). Newsmax says that its private placement investments are near the $185 million mark. Newsmax has made information about the offering available via its NewsmaxInvest.com site. The offering is available to accredited investors with an annual income of $200,000 or a $1 million-plus net worth.
platforms that emphasize conversation and create a sense of connection. To win with this community who wields $2 trillion in buying power, brands must prioritize engagement strategies that center diverse Black experiences and cultural nuances.” The study notes that social media apps have become a haven for Black consumers – Black adults overall spend more time scrolling than their peers. Black millennials (between 18 and 34-years-old) spend the most time on social media among all adults by almost an hour per week. Black adults also have high engagement with radio and podcasts. Radio averages the same as TV in weekly reach with Black adults – each medium reaches 27 million Black adults on average. 
“love notes” via the Audacy app’s voicemail feature beginning next month. In March, KYW Newsradio will feature “60 Voices” from the Philadelphia area, with quotes from local community organizers, business leaders, celebrities and hometown heroes, sharing why they love living in the Delaware Valley. Audacy SVP and market manager David Yadgaroff says, “Local radio is vital more than ever, and it’s a privilege to work at a media outlet so connected to this region. For generations, Philadelphians have turned to KYW for everything from breaking traffic updates to complex international headlines. When I walked in the door as an account executive in 1992, I was so excited to work at KYW Newsradio. That sense of pride has only grown and intensified. I’m in awe of our team and their impact on the community, and we’re excited to dedicate this year to those who have devoted their lives to reporting the facts.”
management background and expertise complement the diverse strengths and wide-ranging capabilities of our existing board, and we are excited to leverage his vision and insights to drive growth and capitalize on new opportunities.” Galbraith is currently a managing member of Kindred Capital Advisors LLC, and is among the largest shareholders of Cumulus through his personal holdings and those held through Kindred.
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.
Hello from Las Vegas, where much of what’s up at CES is technology-on-wheels.
This will be a subscription service. And THAT seems to be the real story. Ford did a U-turn after the outcry over their plan to remove AM radio; and legislation broadcasters asked for didn’t make the cut before the 118th Congress adjourned.
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.” 
“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 
With nearly 30 years of experience in journalism, Lenzi has held roles as morning editor, managing editor, and most recently, news director and program director at KNWN/KOMO. He led coverage of major events such as the 2009 Lakewood Police shooting, the 2014 KOMO TV helicopter crash, and the 2020 police dispersal of the Seattle CHOP Zone. Bonneville Seattle SVP/ market manager Cathy Cangiano tells TALKERS she’s eager for Lenzi to come aboard. “Frank’s extensive experience and proven leadership in the industry make him the perfect fit for our team. His dedication to journalistic excellence and his ability to inspire and lead will keep our newsroom standards high. We look forward to the fresh perspectives and innovative ideas he will bring to KIRO.” 
Bryan Buckalew, KIRO program director, echoed those sentiments. “Frank has a deep commitment to keeping audiences informed and connected. I’m confident he’ll be a great addition to our team.” Lenzi comments, “KIRO has always been the gold standard for radio journalism not only in the Seattle market, but across the country. It is an honor to lead this fine team of veteran broadcasters.” Lenzi will replace outgoing news director Charlie Harger, who will take over as host of “Seattle’s Morning News” on KIRO in January.
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.”
After over three decades as a talk show host, I’ve come to appreciate one essential truth about this industry: there’s no one-size-fits-all formula for success. Program directors, executives, and consultants often believe their advice applies universally, but experience has taught me otherwise. The reality? Not every tip or trick works for every host—or every audience.
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 
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 
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.
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.”