The most discussed stories over the weekend on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:
1. Minnesota Lawmaker Assassinated
2. DC Military Parade
3. Israel-Iran Strikes
4. ICE Protests / “No Kings Day”
5. Big, Beautiful Bill
NRG Media’s news/talk KXEL, Cedar Rapids took over the sponsorship of the “Great Eastern Iowa Tractorcade” after another station in the Cedar Rapids and Waterloo markets discontinued its support. This
was the 26th year for the iconic Iowa summertime event that brings some 325 vintage tractors together at the Midwest Old Threshers Reunion fairgrounds in Mount Pleasant, Iowa. NRG Media says that while some entities might have been deterred from taking over such a popular and well-established event, company COO/CFO Jim Smith embraced the opportunity. He says, “We’re learning as we go, but we’re learning from people who have done this for a long time – very seasoned – so… it hasn’t been that heavy of a lift because we’re surrounded by good people.”
WCBM Adds Ted Cruz Podcast. The Baltimore news/talk station adds Premiere Networks’ podcast starring Ted Cruzand Ben Ferguson. Station PD Sean Casey says, “Talk Radio 680 WCBM is thrilled to add Senator Cruz and Verdict to our weekend lineup. We feel it’s important to feature strong conservative voices like Senator Cruz and Ben Ferguson during this crucial time. I’m confident our listeners will look forward to hearing ‘Verdict with Ted Cruz’ every Sunday night.”
America Tonight Adds Affiliate. The nationally syndicated “America Tonight” program starring Kate Delaney adds new affiliate WVLK, Lexington, Kentucky “Newstalk 590 and 97.3 FM.”
Juju Chang to Host Gracies Luncheon. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation announce that ABC News “Nightline” co-anchor Juju Chang is hosting the 50th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon in New York City on Wednesday, June 18 at Cipriani 42nd Street. The Luncheon will also feature presenters including Arielle Chambers (ESPN), Boomer Esiason (WFAN), Medha Gandhi (iHeartMedia), Erica Hill (CNN), and Vicky Nguyen (NBC News).
WWO Presents College World Series. Cumulus Media’s Westwood One is the official network audio broadcast partner of the NCAA, and in conjunction with the NCAA Radio Network, will be home to the NCAA Division I Men’s College World Series Championship Finals, live from Charles Schwab Field in Omaha, Nebraska beginning June 21. Kevin Kugler will call all the action and will be joined in the booth by Scott Graham and field reporter Connor Happer.
Lotus Communications Seattle is seeking candidates for two positions. The company seeks an experienced drive time news anchor/reporter for KNWN “Northwest Newsradio 97-7, AM 1000.” Lotus says, “The ideal candidate will help prepare and deliver an engaging prime-time newscast as part of an on-air duo, then produce a compelling story to air in other newscasts… You are the voice of your assigned show and
expected to anchor special news or breaking news coverage when it happens. This position becomes an overall ambassador for our brand, and is expected to also work at special events, and alongside our sales staff to promote the station to Northwest Newsradio clients and endorse their businesses if requested.” Candidates must submit a writing sample and an audio sample along with resume here.
Lotus is also seeking an experienced and results-driven broadcasting general sales manager. The position is responsible for delivering assigned revenue targets through managing sales team efforts, developing sales talent and monthly business planning. The General Sales Manager will maintain an account list while helping the sales team sell and develop cohesive campaigns for new direct businesses. Submit your resume here.
Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (6/9-6/13) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:
Stories
1. LA Protests / Trump Calls in Military
2. Big, Beautiful Bill / Trump Musk Feud
3. U.S.-Iran Tensions / Middle East Diplomats Recalled
4. U.S.-China Trade Negotiations / Tariffs
5. Saturday’s Military Parade
6. Russia-Ukraine War
7. FEMA Phaseout / RFK Jr Fires CDC Vaccine Panel
8. Israel-Gaza Unrest / Greta Thunberg Deported
9. Brian Wilson Dies
10.Air India Crash
People
1. Donald Trump
2. Gavin Newsom / Karen Bass
3. Elon Musk
4. Mike Johnson
5. Benjamin Netanyahu / Greta Thunberg
6. Howard Lutnick
7. Xi Jinping
8. Vladimir Putin
9. RFK Jr.
10.Brian Wilson
To see the full TALKERS Stories, Topics, and People Charts, please click HERE.
News/talk WDEL-AM/FM, Wilmington and its four music-formatted sister stations are being sold by Forever Media to Draper Media for $11 million. Draper Holdings Business Trust CEO Molly Draper Russell says, “We’re excited to add these stations, each with a long history of serving their local communities, to our company. Our family’s history of service through free over-the-air broadcasting goes back nearly 60 years.
The addition of these stations fits perfectly into our late founder, my father, Thomas H. Draper’s motto that it is our moral obligation to serve our audience and advertising partners.” In a press release, Draper says it currently operates WBOC-TV, FOX21, WRDE-TV, Telemundo Delmarva, Antenna TV, My Cozi TV, The DSN Sports Network, and multiple FM radio stations across the Delmarva Peninsula. Speaking for seller Forever Media, president Lynn Deppen comments, “We are proud of the legacy these stations have built in their communities and grateful to our dedicated teams who have served listeners with passion and professionalism. We are confident that Draper Media shares our commitment to local broadcasting and will continue to provide outstanding service to audiences and advertisers alike as these stations enter an exciting new chapter.” The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, subject to approval by the FCC.
The most discussed stories yesterday (6/11) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:
1. LA Protests / Trump’s Use of Military
2. U.S.-Iran Tensions / Middle East Diplomats Recalled
3. U.S.-China Trade Negotiations / Tariffs
4. Saturday’s Military Parade
5. Brian Wilson Dies
Woodward Communications names B.J. DeGroot market manager for its six-station cluster in Northeast Wisconsin that includes news/talk WHBY and sports talk WSCO-AM/W237AA “The Score” in Appleton. DeGroot has been serving as brand manager for WHBY and “The Score.” Woodward says that DeGroot’s understanding of the local market and his success in brand management has prepared him to lead this
diverse group of stations. DeGroot comments, “Leading the entire portfolio of Woodward Community Media stations in Northeast Wisconsin is a significant honor. I’m committed to working with our talented local teams to continue delivering relevant content and strengthening our connection with the community.” The company also announces that Kelly Radandt, who was named director of broadcast in November 2024, will oversee broadcast brands across both Northeast Wisconsin and the company’s Springfield, Illinois stations. DeGroot and Kevin O’Dea, market manager of Springfield, will both report to Radandt. Radandt comments, “This expanded role presents a unique opportunity to unify our broadcast efforts and innovate across markets. I am eager to contribute to Woodward Community Media’s continued success and evolution. Onward!”
Former WOKV-FM, Jacksonville morning drive host Mark Kaye announces that he intends to run for the
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!”
The Washington Commanders and iHeartMedia DC are extending their flagship broadcast partnership. Commanders games will continue to be heard on classic rock WBIG “BIG 100.3 FM,” as well as via the station’s website and the iHeartRadio App. iHeartMedia region president Aaron Hyland says, “We are thrilled to extend our dynamic audio partnership with the Washington Commanders, building on the momentum and shared success we’ve achieved together the past three seasons. By harnessing the power of audio across ‘BIG 100’ and our iHeartMedia platforms with broadcast, podcast, and streaming, we’re excited to deliver even more access, energy, and unforgettable gameday moments to Commanders fans throughout the region.”
The most discussed stories yesterday (6/10) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:
1. LA Protests / Trump vs Newsom
2. Big, Beautiful Bill / Musk Apologizes
3. U.S.-China Trade Talks
4. FEMA Phaseout
5. Russia-Ukraine War
By Matthew B. Harrison
TALKERS, VP/Associate Publisher
Harrison Legal Group, Senior Partner
Goodphone Communications, Executive Producer
In early 2024, voters in New Hampshire got strange robocalls. The voice sounded just like President Joe Biden, telling people not to vote in the primary. But it wasn’t him. It was an AI clone of his voice – sent out to confuse voters.
The calls were meant to mislead, not entertain. The response was quick. The FCC banned AI robocalls. State officials launched investigations. Still, a big question remains for radio and podcast creators:
Is using an AI cloned voice of a real person ever legal?
This question hits hard for talk radio, where satire, parody, and political commentary are daily staples. And the line between creative expression and illegal impersonation is starting to blur.
It’s already happening online. AI-generated clips of Howard Stern have popped up on TikTok and Reddit, making him say things he never actually said. They’re not airing on the radio yet – but they could be soon.
Then came a major moment. In 2024, a group called Dudesy released a fake comedy special called, “I’m Glad I’m Dead,” using AI to copy the voice and style of the late George Carlin. The hour-long show sounded uncannily like Carlin, and the creators claimed it was a tribute. His daughter, Kelly Carlin, strongly disagreed. The Carlin estate sued, calling it theft, not parody. That lawsuit could shape how courts treat voice cloning for years.
The danger isn’t just legal – it’s reputational. A cloned voice can be used to create fake outrage, fake interviews, or fake endorsements. Even if meant as satire, if it’s too realistic, it can do real damage.
So, what does fair use actually protect? It covers commentary, criticism, parody, education, and news. But a voice isn’t just creative work – it’s part of someone’s identity. That’s where the right of publicity comes in. It protects how your name, image, and voice are used, especially in commercial settings.
If a fake voice confuses listeners, suggests false approval, or harms someone’s brand, fair use probably won’t apply. And if it doesn’t clearly comment on the real person, it’s not parody – it’s just impersonation.
For talk show hosts and podcasters, here’s the bottom line: use caution. If you’re using AI voices, make it obvious they’re fake. Add labels. Give context. And best of all, avoid cloning real people unless you have their OK.
Fair use is a shield – but it’s not a free pass. When content feels deceptive, the law – and your audience – may not be forgiving.
Matthew B. Harrison is a media and intellectual property attorney who advises radio hosts, content creators, and creative entrepreneurs. He has written extensively on fair use, AI law, and the future of digital rights. Reach him at Harrison Legal Group or read more at TALKERS.com.
On June 4, Heroic Pictures and Patterns of Evidence Foundation hosted an exclusive VIP red carpet premiere at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. for the new film, The American Miracle: Our Nation Is No Accident. The film was inspired by talk radio host Michael Medved’s bestselling book of the same name and portrays the successful American Revolution as happening due to the intervening hand of God. The movie was produced and directed by Timothy Mahoney and stars Pat Boone and Kevin Sorbo, among numerous others. Pictured above is Michael Medved with his wife Diane and actors in period costumes.
Two programs syndicated by Mark Walters’ CCW Broadcast Media LLC are adding new affiliate stations.
The weekend program – hosted by Mark Walters – “Armed American Radio” is added to the program lineup at four stations including WZGM-AM, Asheville, North Carolina and WXZQ-FM, Columbus, Ohio. The “AAR Daily Defense Hour” adds three new affiliates including WNWS-FM, Jackson, Tennessee.
The most discussed stories yesterday (6/9) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:
1. Trump Orders National Guard and Marines to LA Protests
2. RFK Jr Fires CDC Vaccine Panel
3. U.S.-China Trade Talks
4. Israel Deports Greta Thunberg
5. Russia-Ukraine War
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
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 “Cat’s In The Cradle” and The Winstons’ “Color Him Father” and Dan Fogelberg’s wistful “Leader of the Band.”
Regardless of your format – yes, news/talk stations – hear-me-now-and-believe-me-later: “The Men in My Little Girl’s Life” by Mike Douglas. Guaranteed Kleenex material. Don’t even intro it. Just hit it cold and play the whole thing. You’ll hear about it.
GREAT call-in topic: “The best advice he ever gave you?” You will save the aircheck. Callers – some chuckling, others choking-back-tears – tell stories.
And if you still have your Dad, give the lug a hug. If he’s not still around, I suspect that you will find, as my brothers and sisters and I have, that he never really leaves you.
Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a media consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke
Talk host Tom Shattuck’s contract was not renewed at Audacy’s news/talk WTIC-AM, Hartford and his last
show was on Friday (6/6). Shattuck – whose career includes time spent as producer of Boston Herald Radio, producer and host at WRKO and WTKK-FM in Boston, as well as editor at the Boston Herald – hosted the midday show at WTIC for the past four years. He also produces and hosts the podcast, “Burn Barrel,” and will continue with that effort. Audacy is going syndicated in the daypart featuring FOX News Radio’s “The Brian Kilmeade Show” followed by “The Erick Erickson Show.”
According to a report by Axios Philadelphia, urban talk outlet WURD-AM/W241CH, Philadelphia is cutting four staffers from the payroll in a move “meant to ensure the station’s long-term survival.” Affected by the cuts are “Reality Check” host Tonya Pendleton, her lead producer Troy Wilmore, content writer Kiara
Santos, and one other employee. According to a memo to staff from WURD CEO and president Sara Lomax wrote praising those affected for their “meaningful contributions to our station, our community, and our city. This decision was not made lightly. As an independent media radio station, it is imperative that we maintain our ability to give Black Philadelphia a voice and a place to make their voices heard.” She also wrote, “I’m very confident we will survive and thrive. “It’s time like this that outlets like WURD are needed more than ever. We want to be around for another 22 years and another 22 after that.”
The most discussed stories over the weekend on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:
1. LA ICE Protests-National Guard Callup
2. Abrego Garcia Returned to U.S.
3. Gaza Aid Ship Intercepted
4. U.S.-China Trade Negotiations
5. ABC Suspends Terry Moran
Following Connoisseur Media’s proposed acquisition of Alpha Media, Connoisseur announces two changes involving company executives. Kristin Okesson, currently the senior vice president and market manager of Connoisseur Connecticut, expands her responsibilities to oversee the company’s Long Island radio stations. The company says, “Okesson brings decades of experience, a deep understanding of local
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.”
At the end of the business day today (6/6), the Federal Communications Commission is without a quorum of three commissioners. Democrat Commissioner Geoffrey Starks previously announced his exit from the
Commission and Republican Commissioner Nathan Simington abruptly announced his departure from his commissioner role earlier this week. President Trump nominated Olivia Trusty for the open seat that existed prior to Starks’ and Simington’s departures but that has been stalled in the Senate. Interestingly, FOX News reports that Simington’s chief of staff Gavin Wax is being floated as a potential nominee, according to “a source close to the FCC.” Regardless, the Senate needs to get at least one nominee confirmed soon as the Commission’s ability to do business is disrupted.
FOX News Radio nationally syndicated personality Jimmy Failla (right) is being added to the program schedule at iHeartMedia’s WOR, New York, effective June 9 airing in the 9:00 pm to 12:00 midnight daypart. WOR program director Tom Cuddy (left) says, “Known for his sharp wit, fearless takes and refreshing lightness in the political world, we are delighted to welcome Jimmy to the WOR family and to be heard in his hometown. Jimmy’s show informs and entertains, which is a perfect combination for our tri-state area audience.”
Change of Corporate Officers at iHeartMedia. In an 8-K filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, iHeartMedia states that it has transitioned Scott Hamilton from his role as the its principal accounting officer to a consulting arrangement. Michael B. McGuinness, the company’s executive vice president, deputy chief financial officer, is designated as the company’s principal accounting officer. iHeartMedia states, “Mr. Hamilton’s change in status is not the result of any dispute or disagreement with the company, including with respect to any matters relating to the company’s accounting practices or financial reporting.”
SiriusXM Announces U.S. Open Coverage. SiriusXM is the exclusive national audio broadcaster for the 125th U.S. Open Championship, and will offer live shot-by-shot coverage across all four days of Championship play – June 12-15 – from Oakmont Country Club, outside Pittsburgh. The broadcast team will feature Taylor Zarzour and Brian Katrek as the play-by-play voices, alongside analysts Steve Melnyk and Brendon de Jonge. Three-time U.S. Open Champion Hale Irwin will join the SiriusXM team on air to provide analysis during the Saturday and Sunday rounds.
Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (6/2-6/6) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:
Stories
1. Trump-Musk War
2. Big, Beautiful Bill / National Debt / Debt Ceiling
3. Medicaid Cuts
4. Trump vs Harvard & Columbia
5. ICE Raids / Deportations
6. Trump Doubles Steel & Aluminum Tariffs / U.S.-China Trade War
7. Colorado Fire Attack
8. Biden Health Coverup / Biden Actions Investigation
9. Ukraine Drone Strikes on Russia / Deadly Gaza Violence
10.Travel Ban / Iran Nukes
People
1. Donald Trump
2. Elon Musk
3. Mike Johnson
4. Rand Paul / Mike Lee
5. Linda McMahon
6. Xi Jinping
7. Volodymyr Zelensky
8. Joe Biden
9. Mohamed Soliman
10.Benjamin Netanyahu
To see the full TALKERS Stories, Topics, and People Charts, please click HERE.
Republican FCC Commissioner Nathan Simington – who joined the Commission during President Trump’s first term – surprised the industry on Wednesday (6/4) by issuing a statement announcing his exit from the Commission. He said, “I will be concluding my tenure at the Federal Communications Commission at the
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. The Commission is in excellent hands under the leadership of my distinguished colleague, Chairman Brendan T. Carr, and is supported by an extraordinary staff whose dedication to public service is second to none. Throughout my tenure, I worked to defend free expression, safeguard national security, and promote infrastructure investment to benefit all Americans… I look forward to continuing to serve the public interest in the years ahead and to contributing to the vital conversations surrounding our communications infrastructure, national security, and technological leadership. I remain committed to advancing the cause of limited government, free speech, and American innovation. These principles guided my time at the Commission and will continue to shape my future endeavors. As I move forward, I remain committed to shaping the future of communications policy and will continue to advocate for the values and priorities that have guided my public service.”