FCC’s Media Bureau Publishes Foreign Government Programming Rules
Earlier this week, the FCC’s Media Bureau “released rule modifications to the sponsorship identification requirements for foreign government-provided programming, which require a public disclosure to be made, at the time of broadcast, identifying the foreign source of such programming. The Second Report and Order adopted a revised approach that provides radio and television broadcast licensees with two options for
demonstrating that they have met their duty of inquiry in seeking to obtain the information needed to determine whether programming is sponsored, paid for, or furnished by a foreign governmental entity.” While this new sponsorship identification requirements for foreign government-provided programming was passed 3-2 by the Commission last summer, it has been challenged in the courts and remains there. Because of this, yesterday’s announcement of the publication of the rules in the federal register also adds that the implementation of the rules are being put off for six months until December 8, 2025. One of the arguments put forth by broadcasters opposed to the new rules is that they put radio and TV stations in the position of having to conduct an investigation in order to comply with the law.
In the golden age of broadcasting, the rules were clear. If you edited the message, you owned the consequences. That was the tradeoff for editorial control. But today’s digital platforms – YouTube, X, TikTok, Instagram – have rewritten that deal. Broadcasters and those who operate within the FCC regulatory framework are paying the price.
U.S. House in Florida’s 5th Congressional District as a Republican. Since exiting WOKV in February of 2024, Kaye has been hosting daily podcasts, “Mark Kaye Saves the Republic,” and “The 47 Daily.” Kaye says he’ll challenge incumbent Republican Congressman John Rutherford. Kaye says, “I’ve been shouting into microphones and TV cameras about these lazy politicians for years, but nothing’s changed. So, I will go to Washington and shout at them from the House floor!”
website: “He was our friend and co-worker at WWJ Newsradio 950 and also a friend to our listeners, bringing you the stories of the day from Detroit and across Southeast Michigan. Someone recently described him as a hero, and we can’t argue with that. We are heartbroken to share that WWJ reporter and anchor Mike Campbell died on Sunday. He was 65 years old, having just celebrated his birthday at the end of May. He was a fearless reporter, with unique style — a way of talking to and connecting with the people who were a part of the stories he told.” Campbell is survived by his wife Terri and is children. 
This coming Sunday, June 15, is Father’s Day. For that day – and the Friday before (hint-hint) – you might have already readied Harry Chapin’s “
the Corporation” because it was established to be a private non-profit corporation independent from governmental control or influence. This comes after the Trump administration attempted to remove three of the CPB’s board of directors – Laura G. Ross, Thomas E. Rothman, and Diane Kaplan – earlier this year. CPB CEO Patricia Harrison says, “We are very pleased that the Court recognized CPB is an independent, non-profit corporation, free from governmental control or influence, and CPB, board and management, looks forward to continuing our work with policymakers and other stakeholders to ensure accurate, unbiased and nonpartisan public media is available for all Americans.”
suburban New York market dynamics, and a proven track record of audience engagement, operational excellence along with cultivating client and community relationships.” At the same time, Connoisseur chief operating officer David Bevins, who has been overseeing Long Island operations for the past five years in addition to his corporate responsibilities, will now focus on major corporate initiatives. The company says Bevins will play a key role in managing the transition of Alpha Media into Connoisseur Media. CEO Jeffrey Warshaw comments, “These leadership changes reflect our confidence in our team and our vision for Connoisseur’s future. Kristin and David exemplify the kind of forward-thinking, community-driven leadership that defines our brand. As we grow, we are excited to have their expertise guiding both our legacy markets and new additions.”
end of this week. It has been the greatest honor of my professional life to serve the American people as a Commissioner. I am deeply honored to have been entrusted with this responsibility by President Donald J. Trump during his first term. 
commentary on “everything beyond the world of sports – from politics and social issues to entertainment news, pop culture trends and more.” Smith comments, “To say that I’m excited would be an understatement. I’ve been on Mad Dog before, had the time of my life. So, I’m loving the fact that I get to reunite with my guy, Mad Dog, on his turf. That in itself is a beautiful thing. But to then add a weekly show where I have a potent platform to discuss riveting subjects in the world of pop culture, politics and social commentary… let’s just say it doesn’t get any better than that. September can’t come soon enough. It’s been a long time since I’ve been in radio… especially going back and forth with the callers. Can’t wait to get re-started. Buckle Up! I’m coming!” Stephen A. Smith is a featured commentator and executive producer on ESPN’s “First Take.” Since 2021 he has been an analyst on “NBA Countdown,” ESPN and ABC’s longstanding NBA pregame show.
When Georgia-based nationally syndicated radio personality, and Second Amendment advocate Mark Walters (longtime host of “Armed American Radio”) learned that ChatGPT had falsely claimed he was involved in a criminal embezzlement scheme, he did what few in the media world have dared to do. Walters stood up when others were silent, and took on an incredibly powerful tech company, one of the biggest in the world, in a court of law.
served as a fill-in host for “The Rush Limbaugh Show.” WMAL program director Bill Hess says, “We’re thrilled to have Derek’s fresh voice and perspective on our fulltime lineup. His width of interests will make for a fun and informative afternoon program as we wrestle this news cycle each day.” Hunter comments, “I couldn’t be more excited – this is a homecoming for me. Returning to where I first hosted is a great feeling. I’ve been fortunate to fill in across the lineup – from ‘O’Connor and Company’ to Chris Plante, and even for Rush Limbaugh. To now have a permanent home here is incredibly special. I want to thank Bill Hess, Jeff Boden, and all of Cumulus for this amazing opportunity.”
states, “Steve has shared his entire broadcasting career with the WGN Radio audience and built respect, trust, and friendships along the way. It’s a special relationship and four decades deserves recognition.” Bertrand started at WGN Radio as an intern and was hired full-time in 1985. He has been in the news anchor chair since 1992. Bertrand reflects, “Growing up in a small town, I always had my eye on moving to the big city. Never during those years of daydreaming would I have imagined the career I’ve had at WGN Radio. I have worked with, and still do work with, some of the best in radio. I’m so grateful. And lucky. Back in the day, many people might have considered my fantasy a pipe dream. But, it turns out, dreams can come true.”
“Fewer than half of Americans plan to travel this Summer,” according to a 
encompasses four divisions: Local TV and Radio; Network, Syndication Service, Program Service TV and Radio; Digital News Organizations; and Student Awards. RTDNA says the Murrow Awards “recognize local and national news stories that uphold the RTDNA Code of Ethics, demonstrate technical expertise and exemplify the importance and impact of journalism as a service to the community. Murrow Award-winning work demonstrates the excellence that Edward R. Murrow made a standard for the broadcast news profession.” 
iHeartRadio, the deal includes a cross-marketing collaboration of both brands throughout the BIG3 season with promotion nationally across iHeartMedia’s multiple platforms including broadcast radio, podcast digital, social and live events, with a heavy focus in “game” markets including Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, Dallas and others. iHeart Digital Audio Group CEO Conal Byrne says, “We are very excited about our new partnership with BIG3 and having the opportunity to provide play-by-play coverage and promotional support to build further brand awareness, introducing the game to millions of more fans. We look forward to bringing the passion and excitement of BIG3 to our listeners on a local and national level week after week.”
meteorologist. Froney most recently served with WLEX-TV, Lexington, Kentucky. She comments, “I’m looking forward to working with the talented group of meteorologists at FOX Weather. I can’t wait to continue exploring my fascination with meteorology and work with some of the best in the industry.”
School with Dom Giordano” – a phrase inspired by the recent TALKERS conference “Generations 2025” held earlier this year in conjunction with IBS NY 2025. The podcast will be carried on the industry’s major platforms.
together hosted the “Dave & Dujanovic” show. Dr. Holly Richardson is a former state legislator who currently serves as editor of Utah Policy and a columnist for the Deseret News. Greg Skordas is a defense attorney, former prosecutor, and former candidate for Utah Attorney General. Bonneville president and COO Tanya Vea says, “This reflects our commitment to provide Utahns with smart, solution-oriented news and analysis. Greg and Holly bring a rare depth of expertise, perspective, and connection to our community, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to the KSL NewsRadio lineup.” KSL program director Kevin Larue adds, “Our evolving lineup reflects what KSL NewsRadio stands for—credible voices, engaging conversations, and a deep connection to the community. No matter the topic or the time of day, our listeners know we have them covered.”
generator backup. About 35 minutes later the tornado moved through the city. It took Hammer about 90 minutes to go three miles through downed tress and power lines to get to the FM transmitter site and get it back on the air. Audacy SVP and market manager Becky Domyan says, “I want to give a huge shout-out to the entire team at KMOX for outstanding, minute-by-minute coverage on the storms. I can’t reiterate how much this information was life-saving, and big kudos to news brand manager Beth Coghlan for leading her team through this calmly and accurately.” Domyan adds, “I actually was driving on Mason Road near Lindbergh when it hit, and I have driven through storms many times. For the first time in my life, in this situation, I was terrified. At that moment, I tuned into KMOX to get an idea of where the storm was, so I knew what I needed to do to be safe. In times like this, we are there to provide information that truly saves lives. I couldn’t be prouder of everyone on our team.”
traffic news, drivers turn to local radio over social media or phone apps. The study asked drivers about their use of their infotainment system use and 69% said they use it for first for controlling audio content; 68% said navigation was their primary use, and 66% said they use it first for making phone calls. Audacy adds, “Today’s drivers – especially the tech-savvy ones – expect their Audio to follow them everywhere. Whether they’re finishing a podcast from the office to the car or switching from music on the road to the gym, they want their content to move with them. Nearly all AI intenders (93%) say seamless podcast listening is a must, and 73% say the same about radio.” 
regulatory burdens. We received great feedback from a range of stakeholders already and plan on eliminating onerous, antiquated, and unlawful requirements across the board.” Carr added, “And we have been delivering these results with a focus on efficiency. At the beginning of Fiscal Year 2025, the FCC employed 1,461 full-time employees. As of April 28, 2025, the FCC employed 1,383 full-time employees. The difference over the last six months can be attributed to many factors, including FCC employees who took advantage of the early retirement window opened by my predecessor, the deferred resignation program offered by President Trump, and natural turnover. The agency is well positioned to continue carrying out its statutory mission for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2025 and beyond.”
NPR’s “NPR News Now” and “Up First” remain in the #1 and #2 positions, respectively. Other radio-related podcasts of note include Salem Podcast Network’s “The Charlie Kirk Show” steady at #6, Cumulus Podcast Network’s “VINCE” falling five places to #8 and iHeartRadio’s “The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show” dipping one place to #14. 