Industry News

Glenn Beck and Mercury One Deliver Aid to Asheville Residents

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Premiere Networks nationally syndicated personality Glenn Beck and his non-profit organization Mercury One visited Asheville, North Carolina to deliver much-needed aid in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Mercury One is partnering with U.S. Rep. Cory Mills of Florida and the United Cajun Navy to deliver baby supplies, personal hygiene products, diapers, paper towels, and non-perishable food to North Carolina. Using more than 30 helicopters, they worked together to deliver more than 10 tons of supplies so far. They even flew a local woman to a hospital so she could receive lifesaving care. One hundred percent of every donation to Mercury One goes directly to providing relief to Hurricane Helene victims in desperate need. Please consider donating at MercuryOne.org. Pictured above are (from l-r): Mills, Beck, and TheBlaze’s Jill Savage.

Industry News

Beasley Announces Settlement of Exchange and Tender Offers

Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc. announces the settlement of its previously announced exchange of the company’s existing 8.625% Senior Secured Notes due 2026, cash offer to purchase up to $68.0 million of Existing Notes at a purchase price of 62.5% and new notes offer of $30.9 million aggregate principal amountim of 11.000% Superpriority Senior Secured Notes due 2028. Holders of approximately $194.7 million of Existing Notes participated in the Exchange Offer, exchanging their Existing Notes into 9.200% Senior Secured Notes due August 1, 2028 at an exchange ratio of 95.0%; a pro rata share of 179,384 shares of Class A Common Stock of the company and a consent fee of $5.00 per $1,000 principal amount of Existing Notes tendered. Additionally, as part of the Tender Offer, the company purchased $68.0 million of aggregate principal amount of Existing Notes at a purchase price of 62.5% plus accrued and unpaid interest. The Company also issued $30.9 million of New Notes in the New Notes Offer.

Industry News

Podtrac Releases September Podcast Ranker

According to data from Podtrac’s ranking of the top U.S. podcasts for September 2024 based on U.S. unique monthly audience, the top three shows remain unchanged from the August ranker: #1 is The New Yorkim Times’ “The Daily,” followed by NPR’s “NPR News Now” at #2 and NPR’s “Up First” at #3. Some moves of note include Dan Bongino’s “The Dan Bongino Show” sliding from #4 to #5, The DailyWire’s “The Ben Shapiro Show” dipping two spots to #11, and Cumulus Podcast Network’s “The Shawn Ryan Show” rising to one spot to #12. See the complete ranker here.

Industry News

BFoA Adjusts Grant Guidelines and Application Process

In the wake of the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Helene and the impending Hurricane Milton, the Broadcasters Foundation of America is taking immediate steps to make sure every broadcaster who qualifies for emergency aid receives it quickly. BFoA president Tim McCarthy states, “We’ve temporarily adjusted ourim already streamlined Emergency Grant Guidelines and Application Process to make it even easier and faster to get funds into the hands of broadcasters hit hardest by these storms. The situation is catastrophic for many of our colleagues and with insufficient or total lack of internet service, an individual or families cannot even submit an application.” Under the adjusted guidelines, broadcasters who have suffered catastrophic loss contact their market or general manager, who then fills out the Hurricanes Helene and Milton Group Submission Form for all of those within their station who are applying. To access the new temporary application form market or general managers may click here. For more information about the Broadcasters Foundation, including how to apply for aid or make a donation, visit www.broadcastersfoundation.org, or contact 212-373-8250 or info@thebfoa.org.

Industry News

New Jersey Honors Harrison and Hurley at Charity Dinner – MH Tells Attendees Technology is Rewiring the Human Brain to Induce Artificial Telepathy

In the wake of the enormous success of the 16th Annual Hurley in the Morning Foundation Charity Dinner this past Friday evening (10/4) in Atlantic City (see full story below) in which the amount of money raised by the philanthropic initiative has now exceeded $1.75 million to be distributed to worthy non-profits across the Garden State and beyond, the New Jersey State Senate and General Assembly issued separate proclamations honoring the event’s organizer and founder, Harry Hurley and its guest of honor/keynote speaker Michael Harrison.  The joint resolutions praise both media figures for their outstanding work and careers in radio and service on behalf of the public good.  In addition, Harry Hurley, 33-year veteran morning host on WPG, Atlantic City, was honored by the designation of October 4, 2024 as “Harry Hurley Day” in Atlantic Country, NJ.

MH at dinner

Michael Harrison discusses the enormous changes taking place in the human nervous system as a result of digital and AI technology at New Jersey Charity Dinner.

Michael Harrison tells attendees that modern digital technology is rewiring the human brain with shocking results. One of the many highlights of Harrison’s 48-minute presentation was his observation that due to the rewiring on the human brain by rapidly evolving digital mechanics, we humans are evolving into a “technologically induced telepathic species.”  To see a clip of Harrison’s comments please click here.

Industry News

Audacy Shares Creativity, AI and Measurement Trends to Accelerate Brand Success

Industry News

Mike Gallagher Marks Anniversary of Oct. 7 Attack Broadcasting from Israel

Industry News

GOP Eyes New York City WABC Owner John Catsimatidis as Preferred Candidate for Mayor if Adams Resigns

According to a story by reporter Kerry Picket in yesterday’s issue of The Washington Times (10/6), Big Apple Republicans want WABC owner John Catsimatidis to run for mayor of New York City if embattled Mayor Eric Adams resigns from the post and a special election follows.  The article says, according to a New York GOP source, the city’s five county chairmen prefer Catsimatidis, over any other potential Republican looking to become the next mayor of the city.  TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison reacted to the story by saying, “John Catsimatidis would make a great mayor for New York – but NYC’s gain would be radio’s loss.  He’s one of the shining lights among the ranks of today’s radio ownership.” Harrison adds, “As far as I know, this is news to Catsimatidis as well as the rest of us.  I do not believe he has spoken to anyone about this prior to the speculation based on The Washington Times sources.  Regardless, it sure makes sense.” Catsimatidis owns multiple businesses, including a chain of supermarkets in Manhattan and WABC, where he hosts two political talk shows. He also heads up the Red Apple Group, a real estate and aviation company worth about $2 billion in holdings. To read the entire article, please click here.

Industry News

Massachusetts Broadcasters Association to name WEEI’s Joe Castiglione 2024 Broadcaster of the Year

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Keith Britton Named Brand Manager of 92.3 The Fan in Cleveland

Industry News

Darren White Named PD at KKOB-AM/FM, Albuquerque

Cumulus Media names Darren White program director for its Albuquerque news/talk outlet KKOB-AM/FM and sister sports talk station KNML-AM “610AM/95.9FM The Sports Animal.” White previously served with the station from 2019 through 2021 as host of the 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm show and a weekend program. White has also served the Albuquerque community as public safety director for the Albuquerque Police and Fireim Departments, sheriff of Bernalillo County, head of public safety for the State of New Mexico under Governor Gary Johnson. Cumulus Albuquerque vice president and market manager Jeff Berry states, “I am SO excited for Darren’s return to Cumulus Albuquerque as program director. His passion for radio and vision for the future are contagious. We are fortunate to have someone with his background re-join our industry in a leadership position. Welcome home, Darren!” White comments, “I am honored to accept the position of program director for News Radio KKOB and KNML the Sports Animal, and I am humbled by the confidence Cumulus Media has placed in me for this exciting new challenge. Having been a part of Cumulus for over a decade, I have seen firsthand the incredible dedication and talent of the teams at both stations. With a proven history of delivering provocative, engaging, and informative radio that is second to none, I look forward to building on that legacy by attracting new listeners and continuing to bring dynamic programming to our loyal radio family.”

Industry News

Michael Harrison to Keynote and Be Honored Tonight at Hurley Charity Dinner in AC

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TALKERS founder Michael Harrison has been named keynote speaker and guest of honor at this evening’s 16th Annual Hurley in the Morning Charity Foundation Dinner Gala and Silent Auction. The event, organized annually by WPG, Atlantic City morning host and noted radio industryim philanthropist Harry Hurley, has raised more than $1.4 million for worthy causes across New Jersey and beyond. It has become one of the most important annual civic events in the Garden State drawing 270+ guests including government officials, media representatives and community-minded business leaders. The gala will be at Resorts Casino Hotel in Atlantic City. Harrison says, “This is a huge honor and I’m looking forward to addressing this distinguished event with observations about the media’s position at the crossroads between politics, journalism and changing social norms.” Hurley tells TALKERS, “Our special event will be taking place four weeks before one of the most consequential national elections in American history… arguably, the most important election since the Civil War era. It deserves to have a keynote speaker as even-handed and eloquent as Michael Harrison.”

Industry News

SalemNOW Releases New David Bossie Film

Salem Media Group’s conservative and Christian streaming service SalemNOW releases the new film from Citizens United president David Bossie titled, Trump’s Rescue Mission: Saving America. Bossie says,im “Citizens United is thrilled to join with SalemNOW, America’s leading online destination for conservative documentaries, in presenting our newest feature – Trump’s Rescue Mission: Saving America.” SalemNOW general manager Robert Ellis adds, “It’s a privilege for SalemNOW to offer another incredible and important film from David Bossie and his team at Citizens United.”

Industry News

Audacy and the Phillies Announce Multi-Year Broadcast Extension

Audacy and Major League Baseball’s Philadelphia Phillies announce a multi-year extension to their radio broadcast partnership. SportsRadio 94WIP will continue as the flagship station of the team, broadcasting allim regular and postseason games, as well as select Spring Training games. Audacy SVP and market manager David Yadgaroff says, “As we gear up for another Red October, we’re excited to announce our continued partnership with the Phillies. The Phillies are synonymous with this city’s great sports culture, and we’re proud to continue serving as the home for Phillies faithful – from every pitch throughout the season to yearlong updates and headlines surrounding their favorite team.”

Industry News

Presidential Race and VP Debate Top News/Talk Media Story for Week of September 30 – October 4

The presidential race and VP debate combined as the most-talked-about story in news/talk media this week and takes the top spot on the Talkers Ten. At #2 this week was the escalation of violence in the Middle East, followed by the economy, inflation, and the stock market at #3. The Talkers Ten is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed in news/talk media during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Industry News

Rob Finnerty to Lead Newsmax’s Prime Time Lineup

Newsmax names veteran news anchor and broadcaster Rob Finnerty host of “Finnerty,” leading the cableim news network’s primetime lineup at 8:00 pm ET, debuting on October 8. For the past four years, Finnerty has been co-host of Newsmax’s “Wake-Up America” morning program with Sharla McBride. Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy says, “Rob has demonstrated success in our morning show and connects with our audience in a powerful way, and we believe he will continue that success in primetime.” Finnerty comments, “For far too long cable news has been a monolith – with very few options available to the American people, but Newsmax is proof that the model is changing, and I feel incredibly honored to be a part of that change. Ever since I got here, Newsmax has kept growing and growing, which is amazing for this industry. This is the opportunity of a lifetime, and I am so grateful to Newsmax and its team led by CEO Chris Ruddy.” Pictured here is Rob Finnerty as a special guest speaker at TALKERS 2024. 

Industry News

Beasley Extends Deadline for Stock Exchange Offer

Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc. announces that the Withdrawal Deadline, Expiration Date and Subscription Form Delivery Date in connection with the previously announced exchange offer, tender offer, and offering of new notes by its wholly owned subsidiary, Beasley Mezzanine Holdings, LLC, have been extended to 5:00im pm, New York City time, on October 4, 2024, unless further extended. The Settlement Date has been extended to October 8, 2024, unless further extended. The extension was granted at the request of certain key holders of the existing 8.625% Senior Secured Notes due 2026 to amend their relative participation in the Tender Offer and the Exchange Offer. As of 5:00 pm on September 30, 2024, approximately 93% of outstanding Existing Notes have been submitted for tender or exchange in the Offers. The Company anticipates that after accommodating this request the total number of Existing Notes tendered or exchanged by the requesting Holders will remain unchanged.

Industry News

“The Benny Show” Joins Cumulus Podcast Network

Cumulus Media’s Westwood One announces that “The Benny Show” – hosted by award-winning creator, streamer, and podcaster Benny Johnson – joins the Cumulus Podcast Network. WWO says that Johnsonim has amassed “a combined 12 million subscribers across platforms. ‘The Benny Show’ has become a go-to platform for the next generation of news consumers and creators alike. The program features commentary and exclusive interviews with special guests including presidential candidates, world leaders, cultural icons and Hollywood actors.” Under Westwood One’s leadership, the Cumulus Podcast Network distributes, markets, and monetizes “The Benny Show” exclusively with this new partnership. WWO president Collin R. Jones says, “As the Cumulus Podcast Network further expands into video, ‘The Benny Show’ is a natural addition to our portfolio of personality-driven talk shows. Benny is well known on YouTube as a strong and independent voice in conservative talk. He challenges mainstream opinions with cutting-edge insight and straightforward questions, capturing both listeners and partners with his streamlined, frank approach.”

Industry News

Beasley Announces Regional Sales Management Promotions

Beasley Media Group announces promotions in the Florida market. April Brinks-Bailey, currently the national sales manager for Tampa, Fort Myers and Augusta, is now also director of agency sales for Tampaim and Fort Myers. Stacie Waldrop, who has been serving as the digital sales manager for Beasley’s Tampa-based radio cluster, is promoted to RVP of digital sales in which she’ll oversee digital sales for the Fort Myers market in addition to Tampa. And Randy Cable, formerly the director of sales for Beasley’s Fort Myers radio cluster, is promoted to regional director of sales in which he’ll oversee all sales operations for both the Tampa and Fort Myers markets. Beasley regional VP Ron deCastro says, “I am excited to announce these well-deserved promotions. Randy, April, and Stacie each bring unique skill sets that will greatly enhance our ability to serve the needs of advertisers and listeners in both markets.”

Industry News

BFoA Brings Media Mixer to Los Angeles

The Broadcasters Foundation of America is presenting the next in its series of Media Mixers to Los Angeles on October 23. The charitable organization says this comes after successful events in New York and Los Angeles. It will be held at the Universal Studios Hollywood Lot from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm with co-hostsim Colleen Williams, news anchor at KNBC, Los Angeles and KBIG, Los Angeles morning personality Valentine. BFoA says the purpose of the Media Mixers is to celebrate the camaraderie and connection within the broadcast community, to mix and mingle with peers, on-air talent, and industry executives, and to increase awareness of the Broadcasters Foundation charitable mission to junior-level broadcast professionals. BFoA president Tim McCarthy says, “I’m very excited about our first west coast Media Mixer. We’ve had remarkable success in New York and Chicago, bringing awareness of the mission of the Foundation to a new generation of broadcasters. The young professionals who attend get a great deal of value out of it. We look forward to expanding our reach on the west coast.”

Industry News

HARROWING ADVENTURE: WOR’S Michael Riedel Gets Stranded by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina For Three Days

Industry News

Mark Levin to Host Four-Part Original Podcast Series about Israel and Judaism

Cumulus Media/Westwood One today (10/2) announced the launch of a new original podcast series, “On the Frontlines with Mark Levin and Yael Eckstein,” which will be exclusively presented by the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (The Fellowship). The series marks the first time veteran broadcaster and TALKERS Levin Podcast ArtHeavy Hundred mainstay Mark Levin will host an original content series. Yael Eckstein, president/CEO of The Fellowship, will serve as co-host of the series and lend insight from her expertise as a resident of Israel. The series will explore Jewish cultures and tradition, the significance of Judeo-Christian values, the historical hatred of Jews through the centuries, and the centuries-old cycle of violence that led to the devastating attacks on October 7th. The series will feature four episodes in 2024. “I am very excited about our new podcast partnership with The Fellowship,” said Levin. “It is a fantastic organization with a wonderful mission and a truly righteous group of people, from the president and CEO Yael to her dedicated team.”  Ekstein tells TALKERS, “At a time when the world seems to have once again turned on Israel and the Jewish people, I feel so blessed to partner with Mark Levin – a strong voice for Israel,” adding, “Together, as we discuss and find inspiration in how Israel is standing up for democratic societies around the world, we are continuing to build bridges of understanding to help combat the terrifying rise in global anti-Semitism.” The four episodes will be released on 10/2, 10/23, 11/20, and 12/18.

Industry Views

SABO SEZ: Smart Quotes

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

Walter M. SterlingLike you, my guideposts come from innovators, leaders in our business. These are the words I “work” by every day that have led to consultant and host success.

“We will just have to improve security of the building. Next time you are going to stir people up, let me know so I can tell the sales department to raise the rates.” –  Bob McAllan CEO Press Broadcasting, original owners of New Jersey 101.5.

It’s a simple business, people make it hard. In any situation there are three options: Yes, No, Do Nothing. Do nothing is usually the best option.”  – Edward F McLaughlin president ABC Radio Networks, founder of Rush Limbaugh syndication.

“Local news is the most important thing a radio station does. It must be accurate, and it is our business.” – Nick Dirienzo,  New Jersey Radio Hall of Fame inductee; owner WCRV Radio, Washington Borough, NJ.

When asked why he never discusses current events on his # 1 nightly WOR show, Jean Shepherd said, “Because that’s too easy.”

While others found trouble with every single new idea, Al Brady Law, program director always said, “It just might work.”

“There is no reason a station can’t own the ‘news’ image and the ‘cool music’ image.” – George Gilbert, PD WARM, Scranton – who pulled that off.

Being offered a significant marketing budget, Donnie Simpson PD of WKYS, Washington replied, “No thank you… if we put out one wrong image or message, we could ruin our relationship with the listener”  Mr. Simpson earned # 1 in DC with an Arbitron 10.0 share.

About Spotify and Pandora: “There has always been a box of records next to the radio.” – Bob Pittman, CEO, iHeartMedia.

“If they’re not fearless and having fun, they are useless.” On high powered, talented DJs. – Ruth Meyer, Radio Hall of Fame inductee and PD of New York’s top 40 WMCA, WNEW, and WHN.

“For WABC, as a top 40, 7:00 pm to midnight was their morning drive.” – Steve Goldstein, CEO Amplifi Media.

“Imagine if TV started on a cable distribution system. Then one day, it became possible to distribute without wires… over the air! That would have been considered a spectacular advancement!” – Michael Harrison who gives us daily permission to think different!

“No, please we don’t need to hear that story. We hear your show all day in the house. Save it for your show.” – Any one of the four women who have to live with me.

Your turn.

Consultant Walter Sabo A.K.A. Walter M Sterling has a nightly show “Sterling Every Damn Night” heard on WPHT, Philadelphia 9:00 pm – 12:00 midnight. His syndicated show, “Sterling On Sunday,” from Talk Media Network, airs Sundays 10:00 pm – 1:00 am ET, and is now in its 10th year of success. He can be reached by email at waltermsterling@gmail.com or Sabowalter@gmail.com.

Industry News

Pop Music Band Invites Radio Talk Show Hosts to Appear in Music Video