Industry News

Save AM Radio in Cars Campaign Wins First Round

After Ford’s Tuesday announcement that it is reversing its previous course and will not eliminate AM radios from its gasoline vehicles in 2024, supporters of the campaign are enjoying a victory lap. Ford said it would make AM radio available in all gas vehicles in 2024 and will make upgrades available for owners of 2023 electric vehicles who want an AM radio. This comes on the heels of a bi-partisan, bi-cameral bill filed by congressional leaders in Washington that would give the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration authority to require AM radios in new vehicles at no additional cost, citing safety for citizens, access to foreign language programming and more. Ford is not the only auto manufacturer to announce phasing out of AM radio in gasoline and electric vehicles and proponents of AM radio are saying this but one battle in the war to save AM radio in vehicles. TALKERS magazine publisher Michael Harrison appeared on FOX News Channel to talk about the issue. See the video of his appearance here.

Industry News

Portland’s “The Game” Renews with Host John Canzano

Alpha Media’s sports talk KXTG-AM, Portland “750 AM The Game” extends its partnership with “The Bald Faced Truth” hosted by John Canzano. Canzano, who has been with the station since its launch in 2007, says,im “I’m thrilled with the momentum we have and love our team. We get the best guests and the in-depth reporting and commentary sets the show apart. But, more than anything, it’s three hours of fun. I love that the show serves as an escape for listeners.” Station content director Keith Abrams states, “‘750 The Game’ is very fortunate to have John Canzano and ‘The Bald Faced Truth’ as part of the team! He IS the voice of truth regarding the Ducks, Beavers, Trail Blazers, the Pac-12 and all things ‘sports!’”

Industry News

Spotify Tops Edison Research Top Podcast Networks Chart

Edison Research releases its latest ranking of the Top Podcast Networks in the U.S. based on total network reach for Q4 2022 – Q1 2023 among weekly podcast listeners age 13+. They are ranked by the reach of theim producer or network that represents the advertising for the show, not the platform or app that the listener uses to access the podcast. For this period, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast Network, and iHeartRadio take the top three spots, respectively. Other commercial radio-related networks making this ranker include: Audacy (#8), Cumulus Podcast Network (#10), The Ramsey Network(#25), and Blaze Podcast Network (#28).

Industry News

WTOP-FM, Washington Wins Regional Murrow Award

Hubbard Radio’s all-news WTOP-FM, Washington takes home a Regional Edward R. Murrow Award from the RTDNA in the Breaking News Category for its coverage of the Roe v. Wade decision.  WTOP director of newsim and programming Julia Ziegler says, “This award is one that we really won as team for our collective work as journalists committed to making a difference in our community. We are so honored to be recognized with this regional Edward R. Murrow award.” WTOP now advances to the national round of the competition where it will compete against regional winners from across the country.

Industry News

MIW Announces Mary Zukin is First “Speak Up” Mentee

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio announces that Mary Zukin, senior sales & marketing executive at Iliad Media Group in Boise, Idaho is the first “Speak Up!” mentee. Created in partnership with Media Staffing Network and Laurie Kahn before her passing, “Speak Up!” is a one-year program designed for one menteeim from any department in a small to medium radio market. MIW says, “The program is designed to encapsulate so much of what Laurie brought to the industry – a mentorship that encourages and empowers women to develop confidence and sharpen communication skills, to hone the ability to effectively speak up in order to further attain her goals.” MIW board president Ruth Presslaff says, “This program will always hold a special place in our hearts as Laurie has left an unforgettable impact on all of us in the industry. We had a number of talented candidates to choose from, so it was a tough decision. Mary’s energy and vibrant character really illuminated our reasons for curating this program and we’re excited to have her as our first inaugural mentee!”

Industry News

Yesterday’s (5/23) Top News/Talk Media Stories

Negotiations between the White House and congressional leaders over the debt ceiling; Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expected to announce presidential bid with Elon Musk via Twitter; Ford announces it will keep AM radio available in 2024 models; anti-Putin Russians attack Russia’s Belgorod region from positions in Ukraine;  the surgeon general issues a report warning of the dangers of social media for children; Donald Trump’s legal battles; and South Carolina legislature approves six-week abortion ban were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Ford Reconsiders – Will Keep AM Radio in 2024 Cars and ’23 EVs

According to a report by the AP, Ford is changing its previously announced policy regarding AM radios. Ford CEO Jim Farley states, “We’ve decided to include it on all 2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles. For any owners of Ford’s EVs without AM broadcast capability, we’ll offer a software update.” Reacting to Ford’s earlier decision, U.S. lawmakers rolled out a bi-partisan, bi-cameral bill that would authorize the National Highway Trafficim Safety Administration to require AM in new vehicles at no additional cost, citing safety for citizens, access to foreign language programming and more. While Ford’s change of heart takes some of the immediate heat off the industry, there’s no indication legislators won’t continue pushing the legislation. Reacting to the bill, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation called the bill unnecessary and said the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Integrated Public Alerts and Warning System sends public safety messages across numerous platforms including FM radio, streaming sites, satellite radios, and cellular networks. Read the AP story here.

Industry News

Audacy Strikes Deal with AMG for New Audio Streams

Audacy and Allen Media Group announce a content distribution partnership that will allow Audacy to launch three new audio streams for AGM properties The Weather Channel television network, Pattrn, and The Weather Channel en Español. The companies say The Weather Channel stream will only be available duringim severe weather events as a live audio simulcast of The Weather Channel television channel. The Pattrn stream will be a daily live audio simulcast of the Pattrn FAST channel, which explores climate, the environment and how the Earth is changing and elevates new voices to imthe conversation. The Weather Channel en Español stream will be a daily live audio simulcast of The Weather Channel en Español network.  Audacy SVP digital audio content Tim Clarke says, “Audio and radio are time-tested, reliable ways for listeners to access critical and potentially life-saving information during severe weather events. This partnership will add a new layer to our best-in-class news content offering while expanding the reach of The Weather Channel’s broadcast weather coverage to Audacy app users across the country.”

Industry News

Fisher House Foundation Offers Free Memorial Day Programming

Fisher House Foundation is announcing The Jeff Wyatt Group has a Memorial Day Weekend edition of “The Fisher House Story: On the Road to 100 Houses” for 2023 now available for download at no cost. “The Fisher House Story” is a radio special available in varying lengths for news/talk radio stations as well as a 30-minuteim public affairs show for ALL formats in the U.S. and around the world. Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. Fisher Houses provide temporary free lodging so families can be close to their loved ones during a medical crisis. The three-hour, one-hour, 25- and 30-minute radio specials are hosted by radio personality Larry O’Connor (WMAL-FM, Washington) and feature stories of our nation’s heroes, the families who serve by their side, and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey. Hear the demo, register, and download today at radio.fisherhouse.org.

Industry News

Katz Named Honorary Captain for Police Charity Hockey Squad

im

WRVA, Richmond afternoon drive talk host Jeff Katz (above, left) has been “drafted” by the Prince George Patriots! Katz, a former police officer, was named Honorary Captain of the team of Central Virginia law enforcement officers who play charity hockey games throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. Katz, who himself used to play defense, said, “I’m honored to help! While I’m not sure if I will lace up a pair of skates or put on the foil, I will definitely be cheering for my favorite cops on skates!” The Patriots face off against the United States Secret Service team in Richmond on June 3 for a benefit to fight colorectal cancer.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (5/22) Top News/Talk Stories

The negotiations between the White House and congressional leaders over the debt ceiling; the legal battles facing former President Donald Trump; the 2024 presidential race and the entrance of Senator Tim Scott into the GOP primary; reports that a second IRS whistleblower has been removed from the Hunter Biden investigation; the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine; Florida Governor Ron DeSantis versus the LGBTQ community; the three-state pact to reduce use of water from the Colorado River; and the NBA and NHL playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

RIP: Shane Finch

The industry is mourning the untimely death of Shane Finch, who died on Saturday (5/20) at the age of 59im after suffering a cardiac event. Finch was director of sales for Broadcasters General Store. Previously, he held sales positions with Enco Systems and MusicMaster Inc. For many years, he served as an air personality on Gainesville/Ocala, Florida music stations WTRS-FM and WMFQ-FM.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Audacy partners with nonprofit breast cancer organization Susan G. Komen for its four Milwaukee radio stations – including sports talk WSSP-AM “1250AM The Fan” – to become the official radio media sponsor of the organization’s Wisconsin division. The stations will unite to support Susan G. Komen with a “One in Eight” program spotlighting the fact that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. On the eighth, eighteenth, and twenty-eighth day of each month, the stations will host a segment promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors. Audacy Madison and Milwaukee regional president Andrea Hansen says, “We’re proud to leverage our voice to inspire local community members to support the cause to end breast cancer in ways that unite Milwaukee and deliver much-needed funding. Susan G. Komen is the leader in breast cancer research and the fight to find a cure and we’re thrilled to team up with them to champion their mission.”

City College of New York-owned non-commercial station WHCR-FM is airing a new, weekly radio programim hosted by Barbara Askins, president & CEO of the 125th Street Business Improvement District. The title of the show is “125th Street & Beyond” and focuses on the organization’s mission. WHCR general manager Angela Harden comments, “It is also a show about the relationships the 125th St. BID is building with New York City agencies and with BIDs around the world. Perhaps no neighborhood in New York City is as storied as Harlem, long the capital of Black culture in the United States. It’s a name known around the world. And now 125th Street has its own show. I am honored to host the show and look forward to welcoming many voices that support the betterment of Harlem.”

Industry News

Dr. Daliah Wachs Meets Donny Osmond

im

Pictured above is GCN nationally syndicated talk radio host Dr. Daliah Wachs (right) with legendary performer Donny Osmond (left). Dr. Wachs tells TALKERS magazine, “It was such an honor being invited to his amazing show and to hang out with him afterward so my family could meet him (my mom snuck a kiss on his cheek LOL).”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend

The negotiations between the White House and congressional leaders over the debt ceiling; the number of migrants applying for asylum in the U.S.; the G7 summit, Volodymyr Zelensky’s participation in the gathering and the Russia/Ukraine war; Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) enters the 2024 presidential race; Donald Trump’s legal battles; the NAACP issues travel advisory for Florida in response to Governor Ron DeSantis policies; and the NHL and NBA playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Round Four of April PPMs Released

imThe fourth of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s April 2023 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen’s April 2023 sweep covered March 30 – April 26. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In Milwaukee, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WISN is unchanged at a 9.7 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) but rises from #2 to #1, while Good Karma Brands’ crosstown news/talk WTMJ jumps 1.8 shares to finish the survey with a 9.2 share lifting it to the #3 rank. Cumulus Media’s news/talk WWTN-FM, Nashville dips two-tenths to a 6.7 share and remains ranked #4, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk WLAC-AM rises three-tenths to a 1.3 share that lifts it to the #17 rank. In Memphis, iHeartMedia’s WREC-AM adds a half share to wrap the month with a 2.8 share and stays locked in the #11 spot, while Starnes Media Group’s crosstown news/talk KWAM is steady at .2 share but rises to the #19 rank. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

Industry News

News Pro Steve Clawson Dies at 64

Career news pro Steve Clawson has died at the age of 64. Clawson was most recently serving as managing editor and anchor for Skyview Networks. The company says of Clawson, “After beginning his career at WTRX in Flint, Michigan, he came to Arizona where he was a radio journalist at KTAR and KFYI, an assignment editorim at FOX’s KSAZ, a producer at PBS’s KAET, and whose voice was prominently featured in the 1989 award-winning documentary, Roger and Me. In 2018, Steve joined Skyview Networks’ Arizona and California News Radio teams, where he covered many news stories, including political elections and a recent interview with newly elected Arizona Governor, Katie Hobbs. Skyview Networks VP, news Jeff Scott says, “In addition to being an outstanding broadcaster and journalist, Steve was a wonderful person, with a kind word and a smile for everyone he encountered. I feel incredibly lucky to have known him for more than three decades, and for having worked alongside him at KTAR, KSAZ, and for the past several years at Skyview Networks. Please keep Steve in your thoughts and know that we will do our very best to carry on his tradition of excellence and service.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Salem Media Group announces that it will present virtually at the Singular Research Spring Select Webinar on May 24 at 4:45 ET. The presentation will be available on the investor relations portion of the company’s website prior to the company’s presentation.

Audacy Philadelphia celebrated Operation Legacy, a home rehabilitation project in partnership with Travis Manion Foundation, with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony at local veteran Kris Giuranna’s home on May 19. The stations – including news/talk WPHT, all-news KYW, and sports talk WIP-FM – teamed up to provide United States Marine Corps veteran a home fit for a hero and honor his contributions to the country. Audacy Philly SVP and market manager David Yadgaroff says, “It is so rewarding to watch this project come to life. Audacy Philly, along with our partners Travis Manion Foundation, Window Nation, Impriano Roofing and Main Line Pro Painting, are thrilled to honor Kris and his service to our country by providing him with the needed renovations for his new home.”

The Newsmax syndicated radio program “The Rob Carson Show” adds new affiliate station news/talk WGMD-FM, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware to its roster of affiliates. Resort Broadcasting also operates news/talk WUSX-FM, Seaford Delaware and simulcasts most of the programming on the two stations. Rob Carson’s show airs on WGMD’s 92.7 FM frequency.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Stories for Week of May 15-19

The surge of migrants seeking asylum in the U.S. and the Biden administration’s immigration policies came together as the top story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the negotiations between the White House and congressional leaders over the debt ceiling, followed by special counsel John Durham’s scathing report on the FBI’s Trump-Russia investigation at #3.  The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed in news/talk media this week. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Job Opportunity

Salem Media New York Looking for Sales Pro Seasoned in the Digital Space

Salem Media has an outstanding opportunity for a digital sales rep in the company’s New York market clusterim that includes AM 570 WMCA and AM 970 The Answer. Radio broadcasting background is preferred – especially applicants with an already existing book of business and contacts – but not entirely necessary for the right candidate. Interviewing now! Find out more and apply here. Salem Media is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Opportunity

Townsquare Media Has Opportunities for News and Talk Pros

Townsquare Media has open opportunities for news/talkers with exceptional leadership and digital content skills to join a few key markets across the nation. If you’re the total package with a compelling on-air presence, exceptional writing skills, and a desire to super-serve the local community, you’ll be set up for success at TSM.

96.5 KPEL needs a morning show host to wake up Acadiana and serve the community of Lafayette, Louisiana.im You’d be joining a dynamic and high-achieving team that likes to play as much as they win. Read the full listing here.

In Lubbock, Texas, KFYO “News/Talk 95.1 & 790” needs a strong media leader with AM programming skills to oversee the station and its growing newsroom. The ideal candidate is looking for a fun, vibrant community to dig their heels into and win over the listeners of Lubbock. Check out the listing here.

If the heat isn’t your thing, consider joining the 98-year-old WIBX, Utica, New York. This station is a major fixture in the market, having served generations of central New Yorkers and is not looking to slow down anytime soon. With a big birthday right around the corner, the ideal candidate will be able to jump in and use their programming and community-building skills to keep the station fresh, friendly, and full of life. That listing can be found here.

Interested talkers can email their resume and aircheck to TSM’s content recruiter at savannah.bullard@townsquaremedia.com or apply directly. Don’t forget to mention you saw the listing in TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

April 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

imApril 2023 PPM Data – Information for the April 2023 survey period has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford.

Nielsen Audio’s April 2023 sweep covered March 30 – April 26.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are March 2023 – April 2023 (6+).

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media Group’s KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 5.6 – 5.5, -.1, fourth to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas’ KUT 5.3 – 4.7, -.6, fifth to seventh

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media Group adult hits KBPA, fourth month in succession, 8.7 – 9.7, +1.0

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: adult hits KBPA and rhythmic CHR KPEZ (+1.0)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: Spanish adult hits KLJA (-1.3)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 8.3 – 8.8, +.5, locked in the runner-up slot

News: Capitol Broadcasting-owned WRAL-HD3 “WRAL News+” flat at .3, #23 to #15

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 3.1 – 3.4, +.3, #11 to #8

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 7.5 – 8.0, +.5, anchored in third-place

Number One 6+: Urban One urban AC WFXC, fourth straight month, 9.6 – 9.3, -.3

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WQOK and CHR WDCG (+.8)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: country WNCB (-.5)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Urban One’s WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 8.1 – 6.4, -1.7, second to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” 2.9 – 2.6, -.3, #12 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 4.9 – 5.1, +.2, repeats in seventh-place

Number One 6+: Urban One adult contemporary WYXB, third month in a row, 9.0 – 8.4, -.6 and country cluster-mate WLHK, first month, 5.9 – 8.4, +2.5

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: country WLHK (+2.5)*

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: news/talk WIBC (-1.7)**

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

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

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” unchanged at 9.7, #2 to #1

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Bucks, Brewers) 7.4 – 9.2, +1.8, fourth to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” flat at 1.3, repeats at #16

Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” 1.2 – 1.0, -.2, stays at #17

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 2.1 – 2.8, +.7, #15 to #13

Number One 6+: news/talk WISN, first month, steady at 9.7

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: news/talk WTMJ (+1.8)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WKKV (-1.1)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 6.9 – 6.7, -.2, locked in fourth-place

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 1.0 – 1.3, +.3, #20 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” 4.9 – 4.1, -.8, sixth to eighth   

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) 1.1 – 1.3, +.2, #18 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 2.8 – 2.9, +.1, #12 to #13

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA, third month in succession, 14.7 – 13.3, -1.4

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: adult hits WCJK (+.8)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WJXA (-1.4)

PROVIDENCE

 News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 6.0 – 5.7, -.3, sixth to seventh

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .3 – .4, +.1, remains at #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Bruins, Celtics) 3.6 – 3.8, +.2, anchored in eighth-place

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 2.3 – 2.5, +.2, repeats at #10

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.2 – 3.4, +.2, steady at #9

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 1.7 – 1.5, -.2, #14 to #13

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI, seventh month in succession, 9.8 – 9.0, -.8

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WWBB (+1.0)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WWLI (-.8)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 2.6 – 2.8, +.2, #13 to #12

News: iHeartMedia-owned WNOH “BIN 105.3 Because Truth Matters” flat at .3, locked at #20

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.8 – 2.0, +.2, #16 to #15

Sinclair’s WTAR “Sports Radio 850” unchanged at .3, continues at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, fourth straight month, 10.9 – 9.4, -1.5

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: rock WNOR (+1.1)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: urban AC WVKL (-1.5)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 7.0 – 6.1 -.9, repeats in sixth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.3 – 3.2, -.1, flat at #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WSOL, first month, 7.8 – 8.1, +.3 and Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WEJZ, first month, steady at 8.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WJGL-HD2 and its internet stream (+.6)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: country WQIK (-1.4)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, repeats at #11

WZZR cluster-mate WJNO “News Radio 1290” 1.6 – 1.5, -.1, #12 to #13

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 1.1 -.8, -.3, #14 to #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” (Florida Panthers) steady at .5, stays at #18

iHeartMedia-owned WBZT “Sports Radio 1230 The Gambler” flat at .2, #19 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 2.1 – 2.5, +.4, tenth to ninth

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting classic hits-oldies WEAT, third straight month, 10.4 – 11.8, +1.4

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WOLL (+1.5)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican WLLY (-.9)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 5.1 – 5.2, +.1, anchored in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 2.6 – 2.0, -.6, #11 to #12

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.3 – 1.1, -.2, #15 to #13

Number One 6+: Audacy adult hits WSMW, fourth month in a row, 12.8 – 13.4, +.6

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: CHR WKZL (+.8)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WMAG (-.7)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.3 – 2.8, +.5, remains at #11

Starnes Media Group-owned KWAM “News Talk Memphis The Mighty 990” steady at .2, #20 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 3.8 – 3.2, -.6, seventh to tenth

WFMS’ internet stream .7 – .5, -.2, repeats at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.6 – 1.4, -.2, #13 to #14

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS, second straight month, 10.1 – 11.0, +.9

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WHRK (+1.4)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: sports talk WMFS (-.6)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 5.4 – 5.3, -.1, locked in sixth-place

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” 1.3 – 1.7, +.4, #15 to #14

WTIC-AM’s internet stream .4 – .6, +.2, #19 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 1.7 – 1.3, -.4, #14 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 5.4 – 5.2, -.2, sixth to seventh

New England Public Media’s WFCR steady at .4, #19 to #18

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 39th month in a row, 11.7 – 11.0, -.7

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WHCN (+1.6)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: hot AC WTIC-FM (-1.1)

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

Industry News

Save AM Radio in Cars Legislation Introduced

The bill – sponsored by a bi-partisan, bi-cameral group including Senators Ed Markey (D-MA), Ted Cruz (R-TX),Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) and J.D. Vance (R-OH), and Representatives Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-5), Bruce Westerman (R-AR-4), Tom Kean, Jr. (R-NJ-7), Rob Menendez (D-NJ-8) and Maria Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA-3) – would “direct federal regulators to require automakers to maintain AM broadcast radio in their new vehicles at no additional charge.” Specifically, the bill would do three things: 1) Direct the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to issue a rule that requires automakers to maintain AM broadcast radio in their vehicles without a separate or additional payment, fee, or surcharge; 2) Require any automaker that sells vehicles without access to AM broadcast radio before the effective date of the NHTSA regulation to clearly disclose to consumers that the vehicle lacks access to AM broadcast radio; and 3) Direct the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to study whether alternative communication systems could fully replicate the reach and effectiveness of AM broadcast radio for alerting the public to emergencies. NAB president and CEO Curtis LeGeyt comments, “NAB commends Sens. Markey, Cruz, Baldwin, Fischer, Luján and Vance, and Reps. Gottheimer, Westerman, Kean, Menendez and Gluesenkamp Perez, for their leadership in advocating for AM radio listeners. This legislation ensures that the tens of million Americans who depend on AM radio for news, entertainment and critical safety information each month can continue to have access to this reliable communications medium. As the backbone of the Emergency Alert System, AM radio is instrumental in promptly disseminating vital information across all mediums during crises, ensuring that communities remain safe and well-informed. America’s local broadcasters applaud the bill’s authors and supporters for recognizing AM radio’s critical role in our nation’s public safety infrastructure.”

Industry News

Drudge: New Prime Time Lineup Coming to FNC

The Drudge Report posts a story that says a major re-tooling of FOX News Channel’s prime-time programming is about to change. The report says current 9:00 pm ET host Sean Hannity will move to the 8:00 pm slot formerly held by Tucker Carlson, while hinting that current 10:00 pm host Laura Ingraham will exit as FNCim moves Jesse Watters (currently the 7:00 pm host) and Greg Gutfeld (currently the 11:00 pm host) into prime-time slots. However, relative to this, FOX News reportedly told Mediaite the following: “No decision has been made on a new prime-time lineup and there are multiple scenarios under consideration.” The Drudge piece also makes note of the recent ratings: “MSNBC on Monday beat FOX News in prime time in both total viewers and in the key 25-54 age demographic favored by advertisers. Rachel Maddow beat Hannity at 9:00 pm on Monday and helped boost MSNBC to 1.86 million average prime-time viewers and 188,000 prime-time demo viewers. FOX came in a close second with 1.72 million prime-time viewers and 174,000 prime-time demo viewers.” Read the Drudge story here.

Industry News

Round Three of April PPMs Released

imThe third of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s April 2023 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus. Nielsen’s April 2023 sweep covered March 30 – April 26. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In San Antonio, Alpha Media’s news/talk owned KTSA is unchanged at a 3.6 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share), but rises to the #10 rank, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk WOAI also remains steady at a 3.4 share and moves up to the #12 rank. iHeartMedia’s KFBK-AM/FM, Sacramento is steady with a 9.4 share that keeps it ranked #1, while sister news/talk KSTE-AM falls half a share for a 3.7 share finish good for the #9 rank. In Salt Lake City, Bonneville’s news/talk KSL-FM adds 1.4 shares to finish the survey with a 6.5 share and shoots up to the #2 rank, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk KNRS-AM/FM tack on two-tenths for a 5.0 share and remains ranked  #6. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways here.

Industry News

KNX-FM, Los Angeles to Present Town Hall on AI

Audacy’s all-news KNX-FM, Los Angeles is presenting a one-hour town hall broadcast titled, “Reality in an A.I. World,” live today (5/18) at 4:00 pm PT from the Audacy SoundSpace on L.A.’s Miracle Mile. The station says, “With A.I. a key sticking point in the ongoing Hollywood writers’ strike, the panel will feature actor, screenwriter,im producer and director Justine Bateman. Other panelists include Ramsay Brown, chief executive officer of the A.I. Responsibility Lab, Brandie Nonnecke, co-director of the Berkeley Center for Law and Technology, and others.” Audacy Southern California regional president Jeff Federman adds, “It seems like the impact of A.I. is suddenly everywhere you look and listen. Our audience wants to know how it will affect their lives, and they trust the team at KNX News to separate fact from rumor and hype.” Mike Simpson, host of “LA’s Morning News” on KNX, and Charles Feldman, host of “KNX In Depth” and “LA’s Afternoon News,” will serve as hosts of the commercial-free event.

Industry News

NPR News Now Keeps #1 Spot on Triton Digital Podcast Chart

Triton Digital releases its ranker of the top 100 U.S. podcasts for April 2023 based on Weekly Average Downloads and NPR’s “NPR News Now” stays at #1, followed by audiochuck’s “Crime Junkie” at #2, andim NPR’s “Up First” at #3, bumping Cumulus Podcast Network’s “The Ben Shapiro Show” to the #4 rank. Other commercial radio-related podcasts ranking high on this month’s chart include Cumulus Podcast Network’s “The Dan Bongino Show” (#7), Salem Podcast Network’s “The Charlie Kirk Show” (#17), and Cumulus Podcast Network’s “The Matt Walsh Show” and “Mark Levin Podcast” at #21 and #22, respectively. See the complete ranker here.

Industry News

WSCR, Chicago Producer Expected to Return After Suspension

According to several reports, Shane Riordan, producer for the “Parks & Spiegel” show on Audacy’s sports talk WSCR, Chicago “670 The Score,” is expected back in the studios today after serving a suspension for comments he made on the air last Friday. The matter began with a Twitter spat between Riordan and FOXim Sports gambling analyst Jason McIntyre in which crosstown news/talk WIND-AM, Chicago personality Dan Proft soon became involved. In the course of this being discussed by hosts on both WIND and WSCR, Riordan said, directing his words to Proft, “Dan, I’ll have sex with your mother,” and then adding, “Dan Proft, you bring your mother over here, and I’ll bone her.” When Audacy was asked for a comment by the Chicago Sun-Times, it declined to comment. Read the New York Post’s coverage here.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Remote News Service adds 13 new affiliate stations to its roster, including Alpha Media’s KTSA, San Antonio; Forcht Broadcasting’s stations in Paintsville, Kentucky, and Basin Mediactive’s stations in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Remote News Service president and lead anchor Lesley Lotto says, “We’ve always provided fill-in news anchors for vacations, illness, sudden departures, etc. Across the industry there’s been an increase in fill-in requests, especially from stations that need someone on the air in 6 to 12 hours, which we are able to provide.”

The Motley Fool announces that Chris Hill, longtime host of the “Motley Fool Money” podcast and radio show, is leaving at the end of the month. Taking over host duties is head of programming Dylan Lewis. Hill comments, “Getting the chance to create and host Motley Fool Money has been the highlight of my time at The Motley Fool. One of the things I’ve always loved is the team approach we’ve taken to helping listeners understand what’s happening on Wall Street, bringing a long-term perspective to daily market news, and offering stock ideas and analysis. We have a deep bench, and that same team approach will continue after I’m gone. With the show in such a position of strength, the time is right for me to explore the next chapter in my professional life.”

iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman and COO and CFO Rich Bressler will participate in a question and answer session during the J.P. Morgan Technology, Media and Communications Conference on May 23 at 5:15 pm ET. A live webcast of the session will be available to the general public at the start of the session through a link on the Investors homepage of iHeartMedia’s website and a replay of the webcast will be available in the Events & Presentation section of iHeartMedia’s Investors homepage.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (5/17) Top News/Talk Media Stories

The influx of migrants, the cities straining to integrate them, and the Biden administration’s immigration policies; Montana Governor Greg Gianforte signs a bill into law banning TikTok in the state; the negotiations over the debt ceiling, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ anti-LGBTQ legislation; President Joe Biden attends the G7 conference in Japan; and the Russia-Ukraine war were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

April 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Three

imApril 2023 PPM Data – Information for the April 2023 ratings period has been released for Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus.

Nielsen Audio’s April 2023 sweep covered March 30 – April 26.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are March 2023 – April 2023 (6+).

PORTLAND

News/Talk: Alpha Media’s KXL “FM 101 News” 5.7 – 5.3, -.4, anchored in fourth-place

iHeartMedia-owned KEX “News Radio 1190” 2.4 – 1.7, -.7, #16 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB 7.4 – 7.5, +.1, remains at #3

KOPB’s internet stream steady at 2.0, #20 to #19

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KKCW, second straight month, 10.2 – 10.4, +.2

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Increase: country KWJJ (+1.2)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Decrease: news/talk KEX and jazz KMHD’s internet stream (-.7)

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk: Urban One-owned WBT-AM/FM “Charlotte’s News Talk” flat at 5.2, fourth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One’s WFNZ-FM “Sports Radio 92.7” (Hornets) 2.6 – 2.0, -.6, repeats at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: University Radio Foundation’s WFAE 3.8 – 3.7, -.1, #11 to #10

South Carolina Educational Television Commission-owned WNSC .5 – .7, +.2 #21 to #20

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group urban AC WBAV, fourth straight month, 7.9 – 8.7, +.8

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Increase: urban-rhythmic oldies WOSF (+1.3)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Decrease: hot AC WLNK (-1.0)

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk: Alpha Media-owned KTSA “Stay Connected” unchanged at 3.6,  #13 to #10

iHeartMedia’s WOAI “News Radio 1200” (Spurs) steady at 3.4, #14 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Texas Public Radio’s KSTX 1.8 – 2.0, +.2, repeats at #18

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM, fourth consecutive month, 7.8 – 8.3, +.5

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Increase: adult contemporary KQXT (+1.3)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Decrease: rhythmic hot AC KVBH (-1.0)

SACRAMENTO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM “News 1530 AM & 93.1 FM” steady at 9.4, #1

KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM cluster-mate KSTE-AM “Talk 650” 4.2 – 3.7, -.5, sixth to ninth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KHTK “Sacramento Sports 1140” (Kings) 1.3 – 1.7, +.4, #19 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Capital Public Radio-owned KXJZ 3.5 – 3.1, -.4, #10 to #12

Number One 6+: news/talk KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM, fourth month in succession, steady at 9.4

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Increase: urban-rhythmic oldies KHYL (+1.0)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Decrease: classical KXPR (-.6)

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk: Audacy’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020 AM” 3.5 – 3.8, +.3, #13 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan All Sports All The Time” (Pirates) 6.8 – 7.1 +.3, anchored in fourth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting’s WESA 3.9 – 4.0, +.1, #12 to #9

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW, fifth month in a row, 10.8 – 10.1, -.7

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Increase: CHR WKST and hot AC WLTJ (+.6)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Decrease: country WDSY (-.8)

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” 5.1 – 6.5, +1.4, fourth to second

iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM “Talk Radio” 4.8 – 5.0, +.2, repeats in sixth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Utah’s KUER 3.3 – 3.0, -.3, #11 to #14

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KSFI, sixth straight month, 12.0 – 11.9, -.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Increase: news/talk KSL (+1.4)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Decrease: country KSOP-FM (-1.5)

LAS VEGAS

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KMXB-HD3 “101.5 K-Dawn The Talk Of Las Vegas” 2.0 – 1.8, -.2, #19 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE, seventh successive month, 10.0 – 11.2, +1.2

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Increase: CHR KLUC (+1.6)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Decrease: Spanish contemporary KRGT  (-.8)

ORLANDO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKS “Real Radio 104.1” 5.0 – 5.1, +.1, locked in eighth-place

Cox Media Group-owned WDBO “Orlando’s News Talk” 3.7 – 3.5, -.2, repeats at #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WYGM “96.9 The Game” (Magic) .4 – .7, +.3, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Community Connections-owned WMFE 2.1 – 2.2, +.1, #16 to #14

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WMMO, first month, 6.3 – 9.4, +3.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Increase: classic rock WMMO (+3.1)*

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Decrease: urban contemporary WTKS-HD2 (-1.5)

*Represents the largest March 2023 – April 2023  increase (6+) of any station from all 36 PPM-markets analyzed thus far

CINCINNATI

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WLW “700 Cincinnati’s News Radio” (Reds) 11.1 – 11.6, +.5, #1

cluster-mate WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” 3.3 – 3.5, +.2, #11 to #9

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Cincinnati Public Radio’s WVXU 4.4 – 4.9, +.5, seventh to sixth

Number One 6+: news/talk WLW, 15th consecutive month, 11.1 – 11.6, +.5

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Increase: rock WEBN (+.7)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Decrease: rhythmic hot AC WREW (-.6)

CLEVELAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTAM “News Radio 1100” (Cavaliers, Guardians) 5.2 – 6.6, +1.4, tenth to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” 4.8 – 4.4, -4, #11 to #10

WKRK’s internet stream flat at 1.1, remains at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: Kent State University-owned WKSU 5.7 – 6.0, +.3 eighth to ninth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI, sixth month in a row, unchanged at 10.0

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Increase: rock WMMS (+1.9)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Decrease: urban contemporary WENZ (-3.1)**

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

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KMBZ-FM “98.1 FM News, Traffic, Weather” 4.4 – 4.6, +.2, repeats in ninth-place

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

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KCSP “Sports Radio 610 Our Teams, Our Town” (Royals) 2.1 – 3.2, +1.1, #16 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KCUR 5.0 – 4.6, -.4, fifth to ninth

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic rock KCFX, first month, 7.8 – 8.5, +.7

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Increase: sports talk KCSP (+1.1)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Decrease: classic hits-oldies KCMO-FM’s internet stream (-.9)

COLUMBUS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WTVN “News Radio 610” 6.0 – 6.4, +.4, sixth to third   

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Tegna-owned WBNS-FM “97.1 FM The Fan” (Blue Jackets) 6.2 – 5.3, -.9, repeats in fourth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: Ohio State University’s WOSU 6.2 – 4.9, -1.3, fourth to eighth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia country WCOL, sixth straight month, 9.5 – 9.2, -.3

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Increase: rock WRKZ (+1.0)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023  Decrease: classic rock WLVQ and public radio news/talk WOSU (-1.3)

Up next: April 2023 overviews for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.

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

Industry News

Audacy Faces Stock Delisting from NYSE

Just eight days before its 2023 shareholder meeting at which it planned to put a reverse stock split to a vote, Audacy, Inc receives notice from the New York Stock Exchange that it is commencing proceedings to delist Audacy’s Class A Common Stock from the exchange due to Audacy’s stock reaching “an abnormally low selling price.” Trading of Audacy’s Class A Common Stock was halted on Tuesday (5/16) after the share price fell about 12% to $0.09 per share. Now, the NYSE will apply to the Securities and Exchange Commission toim delist the company’s common stock pending completion of applicable procedures. Trading of Audacy’s common stock on the NYSE is suspended but the common stock will continue to be able to be traded over the counter. Audacy says it intends to appeal this determination by the NYSE by filing a written request within 10 business days after receiving the notice. Audacy chairman, president and CEO David J. Field says, “Over the past few years, we have taken a number of transformational actions to give Audacy a leading, differentiated, and scaled position in the dynamic audio space, including podcasting, streaming audio, and our leadership presence across the country’s largest markets and our unrivaled strength in sports and news radio. While we are disappointed by the NYSE’s decision, we are hopeful we will find our way back to the exchange later this year as we execute our action plans which include a reverse stock split to satisfy NYSE rules, the continued execution of our liability management plans and working with our financial advisors to refinance our debt. Further, as macroeconomic conditions stabilize, we believe we will benefit from a general market recovery and will be able to capitalize on our investments in strategic transformation that position Audacy well for the future.”