Thursday, January 6, 2022

By Editor | January 6, 2022 by Editor

FCC Releases 2021 Year-End Station Totals: AM Declines by 42 Stations. At the end of December, the FCC issued its annual station totals report and the number of commercial AM radio stations in the U.S. declined by 42. Interestingly, the country also lost 23 commercial FM signals but gained nine educational FMs. However, the number of FM translators and boosters rose by 446 while Low Power FMs declined by 67. The FCC notes that the number of AM signals in the United States was at its peak in the 1990s at around 5,000. As for FM translators and boosters, there were about 6,100 such signals 10 years ago and that number is now 8,866. The category of FM educational will continue to grow soon and the FCC recently opened a window for new non-commercial educational FM construction permits and received almost 1,300 applications.

KWAM, Memphis Names Kevin Davis General Manager. Radio programming and management pro Kevin Davis returns to the Memphis market as the new general manager of Starnes Media Group’s news/talk KWAM-AM “The Mighty 990.” Davis was most recently serving as afternoon host and production director at Radio Training Network’s Christian contemporary WAFJ-FM, Augusta, Georgia. Starnes Media Group says, “Kevin brings more than 36 years of broadcast experience to KWAM. His experience includes a wide variety of radio formats – AC, CHR, Christian, classic rock, classic hits, country and news/talk radio. This isn’t the first time for Kevin in Memphis. For four-and-a-half years, Kevin was at crosstown classic hits WOWW, Memphis “Guess FM” and country WEBL “95.3 The Rebel” as operations manager/program director until departing for WAFJ, Augusta in April 2020. Kevin is eager to serve the community, grow the brand and expand KWAM’s footprint in the Mid-South region.”

CES 2022: Gadgets, Still! “They REALLY don’t want us calling this ‘The Consumer Electronics Show.’” Holland Cooke explains that “harkens back to VCRs and other things-in-boxes, as so much of the now technology on display here is software that enables experiences.” But HC reports that “acres and acres of inventions do transform Las Vegas into nerd heaven this week.” Read more here.

Former KABC, Los Angeles Host Bill Pearl Dies at 71. Former KABC, Los Angeles broadcaster, attorney, and Long Beach investigative website host Bill Pearl died on January 4 at age 71 due to complications from cancer. Consultant Valerie Geller tipped TALKERS magazine to Pearl’s passing. She says most Southern California listeners remember hearing him on KABC with co-host Bill Press on their popular point/counterpoint-style show. Pearl leaves behind his wife – former KOA, Denver and KFWB, Los Angeles radio reporter Sharon Katchen Pearl and children David, Max, and Chaya Pearl. Pictured here during the mid-1990s are (from l-r): Geller, Sharon Katchen Pearl, and Bill Pearl.

iHeartMedia Station Groups Announce Community Partners for 2022. The station groups in Indianapolis, Louisville and Lexington, Kentucky announce they have arranged community partnerships with eight local non-profit organizations in each of those regions that address needs there. iHeartMedia says each non-profit community partner will be promoted during a three-month marketing campaign based on their specific needs, including seeking volunteers, raising awareness and promoting events. The Local Advisory Boards in each market, comprised of numerous community leaders, selected the recipients through an extensive application process. The community partners vary in each market. In Indianapolis, the partners include: AccessAbility, Cancer Support, and Kids’ Voice of Indiana. In Louisville, the partners include: CASA of The River Region, Center for Women & Families, and Family & Children’s Place. In Lexington, the partners include: Alpha Beta Lambda Chapter of Lexington, Court Appointed Special Advocates of Lexington, and Central Music Academy.

TALKERS News Notes. Production pro MJ Bloch is named East Coast director of commercial production for Benztown and its client Yamanair Creative. Bloch joins Benztown from iHeartMedia, where she was creative services director for the New Orleans and Baton Rouge clusters for the past nine years. She also previously served in iHeartMedia’s national production department…..Higher Ground, President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama’s media company, and Spotify announce the new podcast, “The Big Hit Show,” a series of audio documentaries hosted by Alex Pappademas that focus on the pieces of popular culture that have defined and changed our culture. Pappademas says, “The shows and films and albums we explore have all been chosen not just because they’re massive pieces of popular culture. We’ve picked them because each has had a profound butterfly effect on our culture. Whether we’re tracing how an author’s vivid dream about a sparkly vampire led to an entirely new fan culture or how a megastar reckoning with success, expectation and survivor’s guilt crafted a masterpiece that became the soundtrack to the biggest protest movement in a generation, listeners will know from chapter to chapter they’re getting a high stakes narrative that explains how our culture has been influenced and shaped by these creations.”

January 6 Capitol Attack Anniversary, COVID-19, Midterm Elections, Border Crisis-Human Trafficking, and NYC DA’s Jail Policy Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/5). The anniversary of the January 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol building and the House Select Committee’s investigation; the soaring rate of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and abroad and the battles over school attendance and mandates; the November midterm elections and speculation about the Democrats’ ability to keep control of Congress; the migrant crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border and criticism of President Joe Biden’s border policy as the administration marks National Human Trafficking Prevention Month; and New York City DA Alvin Bragg announces plan to reduce incarceration for certain violent crimes were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Wednesday, January 5, 2022

By Editor | January 5, 2022 by Editor

Sean Hannity Cooperation Sought by House Committee in January 6 Investigation. Texts between FOX News Channel and Premiere Networks star Sean Hannity and Donald Trump staffers before, during the January 6 Capitol attack, and after have been revealed as part of the House Committee’s investigation. Now, the House Select Committee is asking Hannity for his cooperation in its investigation. According to a report in The Hill, the Select Committee tells Hannity it is interested in communications between him and Chief of Staff Mark Meadows and others, as well as President Trump himself between December 31, 2020 and January 20, 2021. Citing a number of texts, the Committee says it appears Hannity had advance knowledge of Trump’s and his legal team’s plans for January 6. Hannity’s takes and suggestions indicate he was, at least to some degree, at odds with Trump’s beliefs about his January 6 strategy regarding the election certification. The Hill reports Hannity attorney Jay Sekulow says he’s not yet been informed of the Committee’s request but says it would raise “serious constitutional issues.” Regarding that matter, the Committee’s letter states, “The Select Committee has immense respect for the First Amendment to our Constitution, freedom of the press, and the rights of Americans to express their political opinions freely. For that reason, we do not intend to seek information from you regarding your broadcasts on radio or television, your public reporting or commentary, or your political views regarding any candidate for office.” TALKERS founder and First Amendment advocate Michael Harrison states, “In the talk media business, influence is every bit as important as ratings. Sean Hannity has consistently proven to be at the top of the pack in both measurements year after year. Obviously, not everyone agrees with his opinions – that is the nature of our business, not to mention the times. Free speech, politics and democracy are untidy affairs. The role Sean has played and continues to play in being a force to be reckoned with on both sides of the microphone is the quintessential example of just how far our format – talk radio – has come in shaping the history of this era. Fortunately, those of us who know Sean personally recognize him as a man of integrity. Although some refer to his texts as ‘damning,’ I am pleased that the ‘concerns’ he expressed to the White House a year ago put him on the right side of history when it comes down to the real nitty gritty. The rest is the real-world stuff of big-time commercial media positioning. Let he who is without sin cast the first stone when it comes to attacking those who have bravely built this medium to being a lot more than a platform for the low hanging fruit of mediocre music, disingenuous promotion codes and superficial chatter.”

Salem Radio Network Talk Host Larry Elder Won’t Run for California Governor This Year. According to numerous media reports, including one from KNBC-TV, Los Angeles, Salem Radio Network talk host Larry Elder will not run for governor of California this fall. Elder ran as a Republican in last September’s recall election of Governor Gavin Newsom and of the dozens who qualified to be on the ballot was the Republican with the most votes. It was moot, however, as voters rejected the recall. Elder says he will form the Elder for America political action committee that will benefit Republicans in federal and local elections. In a statement, Elder says, “I ran for governor because I wanted to make a difference. While I may not know what the future holds for me politically, our campaign’s ability to attract millions of votes and millions of dollars in a very short time demonstrates we have a message that resonates with Americans, and I believe we can put that to good use.” The KNBC-TV story notes that Elder for America says Elder’s recall campaign raised about $22.5 million in eight weeks.

CES2022: “Pandemic Pivots.” The pandemic has accelerated trends “that have been simmering for a while and are now coming to a boil,” according to Consumer Technology Association research. 2022 tech spending is forecast to top a TRILLION dollars in the USA alone. And covering CES this week in Las Vegas, consultant Holland Cooke spots opportunities for radio sales. Read more here.

SRN’s Hugh Hewitt Named Contributor for FNC’s ‘Special Report with Brett Baier.’ Washington-based Salem Radio Network morning drive host Hugh Hewitt is named a regular contributor to FOX News Channel’s “Special Report with Brett Baier.” Hewitt was a longtime contributor on MSNBC and he currently writes a regular column for The Washington Post.

TALKERS News Notes. The sports talk radio show “Outkick 360” – hosted by Jonathan Hutton, Chad Withrow and Paul Kuharsky – recently entered national syndication via Skyview Networks. The company says that the show recently picked up new affiliate WMBH, Joplin, Missouri which joins the growing list of affiliate radio stations carrying the 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm ET program…..The National Association of Broadcasters announces that it is now accepting entries for the 35th annual NAB Crystal Radio Awards, honoring outstanding community service efforts by radio stations throughout 2021. Winners will be recognized at the NAB Show, April 23–27, 2022 in Las Vegas. A panel of judges representing the broadcast industry and community service organizations will review applications and select 50 finalists and 10 winners. The deadline for submissions is January 31 and entry information can be found here…..Newsmax announces it is premiering its new documentary, “Day of Outrage,” tonight at 9:00 pm ET. Newsmax says the program “was produced by Newsmax to accurately and fairly detail the events related to the tragic day of January 6, 2021. The film includes powerful video footage of the protests and riots that took place on January 6, as well as a careful examination of events that led up to that fateful day.”…..ESPN Radio is celebrating its 30^th anniversary this month. The national sports talk radio platform launched in January of 1992. Senior coordinating producer, content strategy & audio Amanda Gifford says, “This is an incredibly meaningful milestone for our network. Sports radio has evolved in so many ways over the past 30 years and through it all, ESPN continues to be a leader in the space thanks to the dedication and passion of everyone involved behind the scenes and on-air.”…..The Motley Fool announces that its “Motley Fool Money” weekly flagship podcast is now airing new episodes seven days a week. Weekday episodes will focus on analyzing the companies making headlines, bringing a long-term perspective to daily market news, and putting new stock ideas on the audience’s radar. Weekend episodes will feature interviews with special guests and conversations about investing styles, strategies, and psychology. Show host and head of podcast strategy Chris Hill says, “More than ever people are focused on how to achieve financial independence, and we’re excited to provide programming that’s relevant to everyone on the investing spectrum. Gen Xers are thinking about how to retire, Millennials are entering their 40s, and more members of Gen Z are starting to invest every month. Motley Fool Money is going to be a resource for all of them, seven days a week.”…..Baltimore public radio news/talk outlet WYPR-FM “Your Public Radio” is celebrating its 20^th anniversary. The station says it will celebrate its platinum anniversary with a variety of in-person and virtual events, special on-air programming, fundraising campaigns and a host of unique activities for listeners all year long. Station president and general manager LaFontaine E. Oliver says, “Our community of members and listeners is the reason that we are so successful. We have one of the best performing sustaining programs in the country with almost 70% of our members giving monthly donations. Their support has allowed the station to grow to the point where we are more than terrestrial radio – our content now reaches audiences on-air, online, on-demand, on mobile and in the community.”

COVID-19, January 6 Investigation/Trump Presser, Filibuster-Voting Rights Battle, 2022 Midterm Elections, Prince Andrew Civil Suit, and Southeastern Snow Storm Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/4). The soaring rate of Omicron variant cases in the U.S., the heated debate over in-school learning, and the scramble for COVID tests; the anniversary of the January 6 Capitol attack, the release of texts between Trump staffers and the media, and Donald Trump cancels Thursday’s press conference; the battle in the U.S. Senate over voting rights legislation and the filibuster; the potential change in power in Congress after the 2022 midterm elections; Prince Andrew fights the civil suit filed against him by Jeffrey Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre; and the stranding of hundreds of vehicles on I-95 in Virginia after the Southeastern snow storm were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Tuesday, January 4, 2022

By Editor | January 4, 2022 by Editor

Good Karma Brands to Sell Wisconsin Signals. Two Southeastern Wisconsin radio signals will change hands, pending FCC approval, and will air a news/talk format. Wisbusiness.com reports that Good Karma Brands is selling WAUK-AM, Waukesha and FM translator W266DR at 101.1 FM to New WTTN, LLC, led by Wisconsin broadcaster and company CEO Michael Crute. The terms have not been announced. The signals are currently airing sports talk but will flip to news/talk when New WTTN takes control. Crute is co-host of the Madison-based “Devil’s Advocates” program heard on the company’s WTTN-AM/W224EG, Madison “Devil Radio 92.7.” WAUK will be branded “The ‘SHA” and will “broadcast Waukesha-first news, sports, traffic, and weather in 2022 and beyond.” Initially, the station will simulcast the Madison programming that includes: “Matt Flynn Direct” from 6:00 am to 8:00 am; WYD Media’s “Thom Hartmann Program” from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm; “Dueling Tangents with Luke Mathers and Bryan Kelly” from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm; “The Devil’s Advocates” from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm; and “The Earl Ingram Show” from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm. It intends to add locally hosted programming in the spring. Bryan Kelly will serve as operations manager for the station. WAUK has leased an office space and will immediately build a studio location in downtown Waukesha. Crute says, “We are excited to serve Waukesha, a community lacking a locally focused news/talk commercial radio station. WAUK Radio will immediately offer $50,000 total in ‘Good Neighbor’ small business or non-profit grants to help serve the Waukesha community from day one. The grants are for advertising on WAUK. They will be awarded throughout January to locally owned, Waukesha businesses. We will begin accepting applications for our Good Neighbor grants on January 3, 2022.”

Westwood One Blog: Strategies for Successfully Advertising in Local Radio. This week’s CUMULUS MEDIA | Westwood One Audio Active Group blog outlines what it calls “five strategies to help build a successful local audio plan.” Stating that due to the “shift of TV audiences to advertising-free video platforms, local advertisers are turning to audio to build their brands and drive sales,” the Audio Active Group proposes the following: 1) Allocate the budget to align with how people use audio: A well-balanced audio campaign puts 63% of the budget into over-the-air AM/FM radio and 11% into AM/FM radio streaming. 26% of the budget goes to a combination of pureplay streaming and podcasts; 2) Determine the monthly campaign objective (minimum, maintenance, high impact, or launch/grand opening) and budget accordingly: To determine the monthly budget, multiply the market cost per point against the GRP levels. In a market with a $10 cost per point, the minimum monthly campaign would be $2,000. The grand opening campaign would be $5,000 per month; 3) Align impressions and media weight with listening by time period to get the largest possible campaign reach: Per Nielsen, 60% of AM/FM radio listening occurs outside of morning and afternoon drive. Spread media weight across all days and dayparts. About a quarter of media weight should run in middays. Place 20% of the budget respectively into weekends, mornings, and afternoons. 8% goes to nights and 5% to overnights; 4) Find the right audience with AM/FM radio programming formats: While the audience composition of TV shows can vary widely, AM/FM radio station programming formats are very cohesive, appealing to the same audience around the clock. Find the AM/FM radio programming formats that match your target using either median age, total reach, gender skew, presence of children, or household size; and 5) Based on the marketing objective, determine the weekly number of ads to run on a station from four types of schedules (very light, light, medium, or heavy): A very light station schedule reaches one-third of a station’s audience an average of 1.4 times. A light schedule reaches half of a station’s audience two times. A medium schedule reaches two-thirds of a station’s audience three times. A heavy schedule reaches 78% of a station’s audience 4.3 times. See more here.

KIRO-FM, Seattle Unveils ‘Leaving a Legacy’ Podcast. A new podcast from Bonneville’s KIRO, Seattle “News Radio 97.3 FM” launches today (1/4). KIRO-FM late morning personality Gee Scott hosts the “Leaving a Legacy Podcast” in which he “takes listeners on a journey to discover how some of our most influential public figures want to leave their legacy on this world, and how his own experience can be contributed to the shoulders of giants that came before him.” Scott says, “My father always talked about legacy, and this podcast connects me to him now that he’s gone. I’m so excited to learn from these powerful influencers to see what they’re passionate about and what they want their legacy to be. It’s a powerful question, and one that truly puts into perspective our why during the short time we’re all here on Earth.” The inaugural program features former Seattle Seahawks wide receiver and current “CBS Mornings” host Nate Burleson. Other guests include author, activist and journalist Amanda Knox, the ‘King of Twitter’ Josiah Johnson, and Gravity Payments CEO Dan Price, who famously decided to pay all his employees a $70,000 minimum salary.

CES 2022: 5G, 4 Wheels, 3Days. This year’s show wraps a day early, on Thursday, “as an additional safety measure” and COVID concern has scared-off major exhibitors and what TALKERS contributor Holland Cooke estimates is “less than half of 2020’s 170,000-some.” But he says “there’s still lots to see (if not touch)” and that he is “among longtime attendees who appreciate the elbow room.” Read more here.

Audacy Announces Deal with Samsung for Podcast Distribution. A new content partnership between Audacy and Samsung will make Audacy’s entire podcast library available on Samsung platforms, including the Samsung Free platform that comes on Galaxy smartphones. Users will have access to content from Audacy’s Cadence13, Pineapple Street Studios and 2400Sports podcast studios, along with hundreds of other Audacy podcast titles. Audacy EVP of strategy and corporate business development Tim Murphy says, “We’re delighted to expand the reach of our robust podcast library to Samsung Free users across the country and put our award-winning titles on more devices for more consumers.”

TALKERS News Notes. After 12 years of leadership under Gordon Smith, the National Association of Broadcasters has a new president and CEO as Curtis LeGeyt assumed the role on January 1. NAB Joint Board of Directors chairman David Santrella (CEO of Salem Media Group) says, “The broadcasting community is extremely grateful to Gordon for his many years of service as an influential advocate for our industry. We are excited to now have Curtis at the helm to guide the organization into its next chapter. He is a proven leader and skilled fighter on behalf of broadcasters, and we are thrilled to have him serve as our voice in Washington and around the world.”…..Later this month, Newsweek will build on its in-depth coverage of the British Royal Family with a new podcast. “Royal Report” will be hosted by Newsweek’s British royal correspondent Jack Royston and American culture critic, royal watcher and author Kristen Meinzer. New episodes will appear every two weeks and will provide American royal watchers with fresh reporting and analysis of the House of Windsor…..The board of directors of New England Public Media announces that Matt Abramovitz is named the new president of NEPM. “In his role as president, Abramovitz will be responsible for leading NEPM’s efforts across radio, television, and digital media platforms, furthering its mission of serving the people of western New England by providing trustworthy journalism, cultural content, events and initiatives, educational services, and community engagement.” Abramovitz has been serving as vice president of programming for New York Public Radio‘s classical station WQXR-FM.

USA Radio’s Brad Bernards Passes. Sad news from USA Radio Networks as the organization reports that USA Radio night and weekend anchorman Brad Bernards has died. USA Radio COO Janet Porter Bro says Bernards was a key component of USA’s quality broadcast team. He was a school teacher in the Valentine, Texas school district who launched an internet radio station to cover local news in Presidio County, teaching the broadcast business to student interns. Bro adds, “It has been a very trying four months for the USA Radio Networks family. We lost CEO Fred Weinberg in September and long-term Christian interest news anchor John Clemens last month.”

COVID-19, January 6 Investigation, Trump Family Subpoenas, Filibuster-Voting Rights Battle, Epstein Fallout, Holmes Verdict, and Southeastern Snow Storm Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/3). The fast-spreading Omicron variant and battles over school attendance policies; the investigation into the January 6 Capitol attack; the New York attorney general subpoenas Donald Trump Jr. and Ivanka Trump in the investigation into the Trump Organization; Senate Democrats threaten to change floor rules regarding the filibuster if it doesn’t take up voting rights legislation; Prince Andrew’s battle with U.S. courts over his relationship with Jeffery Epstein and Virginia Giuffre; Elizabeth Holmes is found guilty of three of 11 charges in the Theranos case; and the Southeastern U.S. is pounded by rare snow storms were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Monday, January 3, 2022

By Editor | January 3, 2022 by Editor

Monday Memo: CES, Carefully. Like most conventions a year ago, CES2021 settled for virtual. But this week, it’s game-on in Las Vegas. And there – vax’d, boosted, tested, masked, and toting the jug-handle-size bottle of hand sanitizer – is Holland Cooke. Read more here.

Pending Business: A New Year’s Lesson. Radio sales pro Steve Lapa says a holiday chat with a former associate recalled a memorable case of a radio seller who transitioned from newspapers and the switch was not smooth sailing at first. But persistence and management support saved the day. Read more here.

Ratings Takeaways from Nielsen’s December PPM Survey. Last week, Nielsen Audio released December 2021 ratings data for all 48 PPM markets. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from those markets for the period that covered November 11 to December 8. Audacy’s all-news WINS-AM was the top spoken-word station in New York, adding two-tenths for a 3.8 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) good for the #8 rank. In Los Angeles, although it shed four-tenths, iHeartMedia’s news/talk KFI posted a 3.1 share and rose to the #7 rank. Audacy’s all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM, Chicago fell out of first place to the #2 rank though it remained steady with a 5.7 share, while Nexstar Media’s crosstown news/talk WGN-AM was flat with a 3.7 share but rose to the #8 rank. Cox Media Group’s news/talk WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta lost 2.7 shares, finishing with a 6.6 share and falling from #1 to #4. In Washington, Cumulus Media’s news/talk WMAL-FM added two-tenths for a 3.7 share and inched up to the #11 rank while Hubbard Radio’s all-news WTOP-FM dipped nine-tenths for a 6.8 share good for the #4 rank. Even though Bonneville’s news/talk KIRO-FM, Seattle added one-tenth, its 6.6 share was only good enough for the #2 rank. The news/talk battle in Salt Lake City flipped as iHeartMedia’s news/talk KNRS-AM/FM remained ranked #2 after slipping one-tenth to a 7.1 share while Bonneville’s crosstown KSL-AM/FM lost 1.5 shares for a 6.0 share finish causing it to fall from #1 to #5. The news/talk wars in Milwaukee showed some separation as iHeartMedia’s WISN-AM remained ranked #1, posting its second consecutive 10.3 share while Good Karma Brands‘ crosstown WTMJ-AM fell five-tenths to a 7.1 share and finished ranked #4. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from all 48 PPM markets here.

Salem’s WIND-AM, Chicago Adds to News and Traffic Operations. Changes in the news and traffic departments are taking place at Salem Media Group’s Chicago news/talk WIND “AM 560 The Answer.” Long time morning news anchor Mike Scott – who has anchored newscasts on the station between 5:00 am and 12:00 noon each weekday for the past 17 years – will join Salem as full-time news director and continue anchoring news and traffic. Scott had appeared on the station through an agreement between Salem, Total Traffic and Weather Network, and NBC News Radio. That agreement is not being renewed. Scott says, “I’m incredibly gratified to be able to continue in my role on the air with AM 560 and Salem Media. We have some of the best listeners in all of Chicago radio and some of the best on-air talent. I look forward to providing the first look at the day’s news for our audience.” Scott will also assume anchoring duties for the Salem Podcast Network’s “Daybreak Insider Podcast,” which launched in September of 2021. Additionally, JoAnn Genette will join WIND as an afternoon news anchor through an agreement with Remote News Service. She will anchor weekday afternoon newscasts through 6:30 pm. Also, longtime Chicago traffic reporter Jill Urchak will begin handling afternoon traffic reports for the station. Urchak has spent close to 25 years as a traffic reporter in Chicago, including at WGN-AM, WBBM-AM, WSCR-AM, and WLUP-FM, as well as WBBM-TV. Salem regional VP and WIND general manager Jeff Reisman says, “News and traffic are cornerstone elements for our format and for our radio station. Keeping Mike Scott on our team while also adding JoAnn and Jill solidifies our commitment to serve our audience. We have a team of veteran broadcasters with experience and insight that our listeners can trust.”

Zederman Named Director of Content for ‘ESPN 1000’ in Chicago. At Chicago sports talk outlet WMVP-AM “ESPN 1000,” Good Karma Brands names Danny Zederman director of content. Zederman joins the leadership team as a 15-year veteran of “ESPN 1000.” Zederman has been serving as executive producer of the “Kap & J.Hood” show. He says, “I’m grateful to Good Karma Brands for the opportunity and am excited to work alongside ESPN 1000’s market manager Keith Williams, to lead and collaborate with our talented teammates and partners. My goal is to continue entertaining our fans, grow the ESPN Chicago brand on all platforms and add value to the community.” Williams says, “We’re excited to announce Danny Zederman as ESPN Chicago’s director of content. Danny’s strategy and vision for our team in the future will allow us to grow to serve our partners, fans and teammates.”

Jimmy Failla Featured on FOX News’ New Year’s Celebration. Pictured above in Times Square prior to Friday’s New Year’s celebration is FOX News Radio host Jimmy Failla (right). With him is FOX News Radio manager of affiliate sales & marketing Tamara Karcev (left) and KTTH, Seattle talk host Jason Rantz (center). Failla was featured as one of the FOX personalities on the “All American New Year Live from Nashville” special that aired on New Year’s Eve.

TALKERS News Notes. Over the New Year’s holiday weekend, Ric Edelman debuted his new, nationally syndicated radio program, “The Truth About Your Future with Ric Edelman,” on 26 affiliates around the country. Edelman hosted AgeWave founder Dr. Ken Dychtwald on the program. Edelman says, “If you’re alive in 2030, you will likely live to age 100 or beyond. We need to make sure that your money lasts as long as you do, and that’s why I’m focusing on the topics that matter to investors today. The investments of the past 40 years won’t deliver the results you need in the future, so I’ll be sharing the ideas and strategies you need to achieve success in the 21st century.”…..The Independent Broadcasters Association’s board of directors elects officers for the 2022-2023 term. Ron Stone was re-elected for a second term as president and executive director of the IBA. Two of the other officers were also re-elected, Darrell Calton, chairman and assistant secretary and Allen Dick, VP and treasurer. Tony Renda was elected as secretary and assistant treasurer, replacing Mike Flood. Stone says, “I am pleased that the board has re-elected three of the founding officers for an additional term. I am very excited to have Tony Renda as one of our leaders in the next term. Tony has been instrumental in helping the IBA with many of the initiatives we took on in our first two years. The IBA has succeeded in its first 18 months delivering many new ways for its members to save on operational costs, create new revenues, and benefit from all the professionals in the industry that are working with us. We have said from the beginning that a large independent membership provides scale and with scale we can deliver many great things for independent broadcasters. I am looking forward to working with our management team to establish new goals for the IBA for 2022 and 2023.”

COVID-19, New Year’s Holiday, Twitter Boots MTG, January 6 Investigation, Colorado Wildfires, NASCAR ‘Let’s Go Brandon’ Issue, Betty White Dies, Antonio Brown Incident Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The exploding rate of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., the Omicron variant, and vaccine mandates; the New Year’s holiday, 2021 retrospectives, and predictions for 2022; Twitter permanently cancels account of Marjorie Taylor Greene; the investigation into the January 6 Capitol attack; the wildfires that devastated the Boulder, Colorado area; criticism over NASCAR for “reviewing” Brandon Brown’s crypto sponsorship and the “Let’s Go, Brandon” slogan; entertainment icon Betty White dies at 99; and Antonio Brown’s bizarre exit from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the middle of Sunday’s game were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

December 2021 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

By Editor | January 3, 2022 by Editor

December 2021 PPM Data – Information for the December 2021 survey period has been released for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.

Nielsen Audio’s December 2021 sweep covered November 11 – December 8.

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 November 2021 – December 2021 (6+).

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media-operated KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 5.0 – 5.3, +.3, fifth to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” 2.0 – 2.4, +.4, #16 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas-owned KUT 6.9 – 6.8, -.1, repeats in third-place

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media-operated adult hits KBPA, tenth consecutive month, 8.0 – 8.7, +.7

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary KKMJ (+1.4)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: country KVET-FM (-1.3)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 7.3 – 7.0, -.3, fourth to third

Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” steady at 2.9, repeats at #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 2.6 – 2.5, -.1, flat at #14

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 8.1 – 8.5, +.4, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WUNC, fourteenth consecutive month, 8.1 – 8.5, +.4

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: alternative WDCG-HD2 (+1.3)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: urban AC WFXC (-.7)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Emmis’ WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 7.8 – 8.1, +.3, second to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Emmis-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” (Colts and Pacers) 7.5 – 4.2, -.3.3, third to seventh

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” .6 – .9, +.3, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting’s WFYI 7.1 – 6.8, -.3, sixth to fifth

Number One 6+: Emmis adult contemporary WYXB, first month, 7.2 – 10.7 +3.5

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WYXB (+3.5)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: sports talk WIBC-HD2 (-3.3)*

*Represents the largest November 2021 – December 2021 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” unchanged at 10.3, #1

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Green Bay Packers and Bucks) 7.6 – 7.1, -.5, second to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, #15 to #16

Audacy-owned WSSP “1250 AM The Fan” 1.3 – 1.0, -.3, #16 to #17

Good Karma Brands’ WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” .9 – .7, -.2, #17 to #19

iHeartMedia-owned WOKY “The Big 920” flat at .6, stays at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 4.2 – 4.1, -.1, locked in tenth-place

Wisconsin Educational Communications Board’s WHAD .7 – .6, -.1, #19 to #20

Number One 6+: news/talk WISN, second month in a row, steady at 10.3

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase:; urban contemporary WXSS-HD2 (+1.6)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: rock WHQG (-.7)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 5.9 – 5.3, -.6, fifth to eighth

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 2.5 – 2.0, -.5, #14 to #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” (Tennessee Titans) 5.5 – 5.2, -.3, tenth to ninth

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) 1.2 – 1.0, -.2, remains at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 5.7 – 5.8, +.1, eighth to fifth

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA, first month, 5.8 – 8.6, +2.8

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WJXA (+2.8)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: classic rock WNRQ (-2.2)

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 5.2 – 5.8, +.6, anchored at #5

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .8 – 1.1, +.3, #19 to #15

News – Talk: iHeartMedia’s WBZ-AM “1030 News Radio” 1.5 – 1.3, -.2, #12 to #14

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (New England Patriots, Celtics, and Bruins) unchanged at 4.0, ninth to seventh

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 4.4 – 3.6, -.8, seventh to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: Rhode Island Public Radio-owned WNPN 3.0 – 2.4, -.6, repeats in tenth-place

WGBH Educational Foundation’s WGBH 2.4 – 2.3, -.1, continues at #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia rock WHJY, fifth straight month, 11.3 – 10.5, -.8

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WWLI (+2.4)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: CHR WPRO-FM (-1.2)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 2.8 – 2.1, -.7, #12 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.1 – 1.2, +.1, repeats at #19

Sinclair-owned WTAR “Sports Radio 850” .5 – .4, -.1, flat at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, 38^th consecutive month, 11.0 – 10.2, -.8

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: rhythmic hot AC WMOV (+3.8)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: adult hits WNOB (-1.6)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 8.0 – 8.7, +.7, repeats in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WOKV-AM “ESPN Jacksonville 690 AM” flat at .4, remains at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.0 – 3.3, +.3, #12 to #10

Number One 6+: Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WEJZ, first month, 8.7 – 10.8, +2.1

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WEJZ (+2.1)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease (Tie): CHR WAPE and contemporary Christian WCRJ (-1.1)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 2.4 – 1.8, -.6, #12 to #15

iHeartMedia’s WJNO “News Radio 1290” (also) 2.4 – 1.8, -.6, #12 to #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board-owned WLRN 2.7 – 3.0, +.3, ninth to seventh

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting classic hits-oldies WEAT, first month, 6.7 – 9.4, +2.7

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: classic hits-oldies WEAT (+2.7)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: adult contemporary WOLL (-2.3)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 4.6 – 4.1, -.5, locked in seventh-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Curtis Media Group-owned WSJS & WPCM 600 AM & 920 AM” unchanged at .4, #16 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 3.7 – 4.1, +.4, ninth to seventh

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.5 – 1.9, +.4, anchored at #13

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WQMG, seventh month in a row, 12.1 – 13.0, +.9

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WMAG (+4.1)**

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: adult hits WSMW and classic rock WKRR (-1.1)

**Represents a tie for the largest November 2021 – December 2021 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 3.8 – 3.2, -.6, anchored in tenth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: (Three) Audacy cluster-mates WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 4.2 – 4.4, +.2, eighth to seventh; WMFS’ internet stream flat at .5, #17 to #18; and WMC-AM “ESPN 790 AM” steady at .2, continues at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications’ WKNO 2.6 – 2.3, -.3, #12 to #13

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS, tenth consecutive month, 12.0 – 11.3, -.7

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WRVR (+3.6)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: hot AC WMC-FM (-1.0)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 5.7 – 5.2, -.5, continues in seventh-place

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” .8 – .9, +.1, #14 to #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WUCS “97.9 ESPN” .8 – .9, +.1, #14 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications’ WNPR 7.0 – 7.1, +.1, locked in third-place

New England Public Media’s WFCR unchanged at .4, #16 to #17

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 21^st successive month, 10.8 – 14.9, +4.1

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WRCH (+4.1)**

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease (Tie): classic rock WDRC-FM and alternative WMRQ (-.8)

**Represents a tie for the largest November 2021 – December 2021 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

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

Ratings Takeaways

December 2021 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Three

By Editor | January 3, 2022 by Editor

December 2021 PPM Data – Information for the December 2021 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 December 2021 sweep covered November 11 – December 8.

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 November 2021 – December 2021 (6+).

PORTLAND

News/Talk: Alpha Media’s KXL “FM 101 News” flat at 7.1, second to fourth

iHeartMedia-owned KEX “News Radio 1190” 3.1 – 2.5, -.6, unchanged at #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB 6.9 – 7.2, +.3, fourth to third and KOPB’s internet stream steady at 2.2, #19 to #17

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KKCW, first month, 7.1 – 12.4, +5.3

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary KKCW (+5.3)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: hot AC KRSK (-.8)

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk: Radio One-owned WBT AM & WBT-FM “Charlotte’s News Talk” (Carolina Panthers) 4.5 – 3.8, -.7, #8 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WFNZ “Sports Radio The Fan” (Hornets) 1.0 – 1.1, +.1, remains at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University Radio Foundation-owned WFAE 4.1 – 4.3, +.2, tenth to ninth

South Carolina Educational Television Commission’s WNSC steady at .5, locked at #20

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WKQC, first month, 5.0 – 8.8, +3.8

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WKQC (+3.8)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: classical WDAV (-.8)

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WOAI “News Radio 1200” (Spurs) 4.3 – 4.2, -.1, tenth to eighth

Alpha Media-owned KTSA “Stay Connected” 2.1 – 2.2, +.1, #16 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Texas Public Radio’s KSTX 3.3 – 3.1, -.2, #13 to #12

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KQXT, first month, 5.9 – 10.8, +4.9

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary KQXT (+4.9)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KONO-FM (-1.8)

SACRAMENTO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM “News 1530 AM & 93.1 FM” 9.1 – 7.3, -1.8, first to third and cluster-mate KSTE “Talk 650” 2.7 – 2.9, +.2, #14 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KIFM-AM “ESPN 1320” 1.0 – .9, -.1, #18 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Capital Public Radio’s KXJZ 4.9 – 4.5, -.4, seventh to eighth

Number One 6+: Audacy classic rock KSEG, first month, 8.3 – 10.2, +1.9

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary KYMX (+3.1)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: adult contemporary KBEB (-2.2)*

*Represents the largest November 2021 – December 2021 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk: Audacy’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020 AM” 4.1 – 3.7, -.4, remains in ninth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan All Sports All The Time” 8.7 – 7.8, -.9, stays at #4

Public Radio News/Talk: Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting’s WESA 3.3 – 2.7, -.6, #11 to #13

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW, first month, 8.9 – 11.1, +2.2

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WSHH (+2.5)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: sports talk KDKA-FM (-.9)

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM “Talk Radio” 7.2 – 7.1, -.1, anchored in second-place

Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” 7.5 – 6.0, -1.5, first to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Utah’s KUER steady at 4.1, repeats at #8

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KSFI, first month, 5.5 – 10.9, +5.4

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary KSFI (+5.4)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: news/talk KSL (-1.5)

LAS VEGAS

News/Talk: Audacy’s KXNT “News Talk 840” 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, #21 to #16

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, first month, 6.0 – 13.1, +7.1

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary KSNE (+7.1)**

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: contemporary Christian KSOS (-2.1)

**Represents the largest November 2021 – December 2021 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

ORLANDO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKS “Real Radio 104.1” 5.6 – 5.3, -.3, seventh to eighth

Cox Media Group-owned WDBO “Orlando’s News Talk” 2.1 – 1.9, -.2, flat at #16

iHeartMedia’s WFLF “Orlando News Radio” 1.8 – 1.3, -.5, #18 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WYGM “96.9 The Game” (Magic) 2.3 – 2.2, -.1, #15 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Community Connections’ WMFE 2.5 – 1.7, -.8, #13 to #17

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMGF, first month, 6.1 – 12.0, +5.9

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WMGF (+5.9)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: rock WJRR (-1.5)

CINCINNATI

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WLW “700 Cincinnati’s News Radio” 11.8 – 10.2, -1.6, flat at #2 and cluster-mate WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” 5.8 – 5.2, -.6, fourth to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WCKY “ESPN 1530” (Bengals) locked at 1.4, repeats at #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Cincinnati Public Radio-owned WVXU steady at 3.9, tenth to eighth

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WGRR second month in a row, 12.3 – 11.0, -1.3

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WRRM (+1.8)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: news/talk WLW (-1.6)

CLEVELAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTAM “News Radio 1100” (Cavaliers) 4.7 – 4.0, -.7, stays in ninth-place

News: iHeartMedia-owned WMMS-HD2 “BIN 99.1 Because Truth Matters” unchanged at .2, #18 to #20

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” (Browns) 5.5 – 4.6, -.9, seventh to eighth and WKRK’s internet steam debuts with a 1.5, #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Ideastream-owned WCPN steady at 2.6, #13 to #12

Kent State University’s WKSU 1.3 – 1.1, -.2, #15 to #17

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WDOK first month, 9.8 – 10.4, +.6

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI (+1.4)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: sports talk WKRK (-.9)

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMBZ-FM “98.1 FM News, Traffic, Weather” 5.0 – 4.6, -.4, seventh to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KCSP “Sports Radio 610 Our Teams, Our Town” 2.1 – 2.3, +.2, remains at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KCUR 6.6 – 6.1, -.5, continues in third-place

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic rock KCFX, third consecutive month, 8.9 – 9.7, +.8

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary KCKC (+3.4)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: country WDAF (-1.6)

COLUMBUS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WTVN “News Radio 610” 6.7 – 6.5, -.2, remains in fourth-place

News: iHeartMedia’s WYTS “Columbus’ BIN 1230” .2 – .1, -.1, locked at #19

Sports Talk: Tegna-owned WBNS-FM “97.1 FM The Fan” (Blue Jackets) 9.6 – 10.3, +.7, #1 and cluster-mate WBNS-AM “ESPN 1460 AM” .6 – .5, -.1, #16 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Ohio State University’s WOSU 6.2 – 6.5, +.3, sixth to fourth

Number One 6+: sports talk WBNS-FM, fourth successive month, 9.6 – 10.3, +.7

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult hits WODC (+2.1)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: classic rock WLVQ (-1.2)

Up next: December 2021 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.

Sales

Pending Business: A New Year’s Lesson

By Editor | January 3, 2022 by Editor

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — I particularly enjoy this time of year because it’s when I usually reconnect with former associates all around the country. Sellers, managers, and on-air talent from South Florida to San Francisco who share the bond of having worked through one of the most challenging years in broadcast history checked-in with me. Those calls, texts and emails always include one “wow” moment that serves as a life lesson for all of us. Here’s one in particular that can serve as a motivator for all heading into the New Year.

(more…)

2021 Heavy Hundred – 76-100

By TALKERS | June 9, 2021August 17, 2026 by TALKERS

76. Dr. Daliah Wachs – Genesis Communications Network

77. Joe Piscopo – WNYM, New York

78. Monsters in the Morning – WTKS-FM, Orlando

79. Kevin McCullough – WNYM, New York / Syndication

80. Derek Hunter – WCBM, Baltimore / Syndication

81. Karen Hunter – SiriusXM Satellite Radio

82. John Williams – WGN, Chicago

83. Brett Winterble – WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte

84. Larry Gaydos – KTAR-FM, Phoenix

85. John DePetro – WNRI, Providence

86. John Batchelor – John Batchelor Show

87. Eric Von Haessler – WSB, Atlanta

88. Gordon Deal – Compass Media Networks

89. James T. Harris – KFYI, Phoenix

90. Jennifer Horn – KRLA, Los Angeles / KTIE, San Bernardino

91. Jimmy Failla – FOX News Radio

92. Mike Calta – WHPT-FM, Tampa

93. Jeff Wagner – WTMJ, Milwaukee

94. Frank Morano – WABC, New York

95. Ken Matthews – WHP, Harrisburg, PA

96. Martha Zoller – WDUN-AM/FM, Gainesville, Georgia

97. Charlie Kirk – Salem Radio Network

98. Grace Curley – Howie Carr Radio Network

99. Guy Benson – FOX News Radio

100. Dan Mandis – WWTN-FM, Nashville

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

2021 Heavy Hundred – 51-75

By TALKERS | June 9, 2021August 17, 2026 by TALKERS

51. Mark Belling – WISN, Milwaukee

52. Chad Benson – KTAR-FM, Phoenix / Radio America

53. Deminski & Doyle – WKXW-FM, Trenton

54. Markley, van Camp & Robbins – Compass Media Networks

55. Lincoln Ware – WDBZ-AM, Cincinnati

56. Vince Coglianese – WMAL-FM, Washington, DC

57. Todd Schnitt – Compass Media Networks

58. Terry Gross – NPR

59. Mark Simone – WOR, New York

60. Joyce Kaufman – WFTL, Fort Lauderdale

61. Tom Bauerle – WBEN-AM, Buffalo

62. Chip Franklin – KGO, San Francisco

63. Mike Trivisonno – WTAM, Cleveland

64. Charlie Brennan – KMOX, St. Louis

65. Ric Edelman – Ric Edelman Show

66. Bill Spadea – WKXW-FM, Trenton

67. Len Berman & Michael Riedel – WOR, New York

68. Simon Conway – WHO, Des Moines / WMT, Cedar Rapids

69. McGraw Milhaven – KTRS, St. Louis

70. Tom Sullivan – Talk Media Network

71. Michael Medved – The Michael Medved Show

72. John Fredericks – John Fredericks Radio Network

73. Tony Katz – WIBC-FM, Indianapolis / Syndication

74. Mark Davis – KSKY, Dallas

75. Clyde Lewis – Ground Zero Media

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

2021 Heavy Hundred – 26-50

By TALKERS | June 8, 2021August 17, 2026 by TALKERS

26. Bernie McGuirk & Sid Rosenberg – WABC, New York

27. Sebastian Gorka – Salem Radio Network

28. John & Ken – KFI, Los Angeles

29. Rich Zeoli – WPHT, Philadelphia

30. Armstrong & Getty – KSTE, Sacramento & Syndication

31. Doug Stephan – Stephan MultiMedia

32. Larry O’Connor – WMAL-FM, Washington, DC

33. Dennis Prager – Salem Radio Network

34. Larry Young – WOLB, Baltimore

35. Dan Bongino – Westwood One

36. Mandy Connell – KOA, Denver

37. Harry Hurley – WPG, Atlantic City

38. Chris Plante – Westwood One

39. Michael Smerconish – SiriusXM Satellite Radio

40. Stephanie Miller – WYD Media

41. Wayne Allyn Root – USA Radio

42. Erick Erickson – WSB, Atlanta / Cox Media Group

43. Buck Sexton – Premiere Networks

44. Todd Starnes – Starnes Media Group

45. Dan Yorke – WPRO-AM/WEAN-FM, Providence

46. Bill Cunningham – WLW, Cincinnati

47. Phil Valentine – WWTN-FM, Nashville

48. Mark Reardon – KFTK-FM, St. Louis

49. Tim Conway, Jr. – KFI, Los Angeles

50. Dr. Asa – Asa Rx

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

2021 Heavy Hundred – 1-25

By TALKERS | June 3, 2021August 17, 2026 by TALKERS

1. Sean Hannity – Premiere Networks

2. Dave Ramsey – Ramsey Solutions

3. Mark Levin – Westwood One

4. Brian Kilmeade – FOX News Radio

5. Joe Madison – SiriusXM Satellite Radio

6. Dana Loesch – Radio America

7. Mike Gallagher – Salem Radio Network

8. Thom Hartmann – WYD Media

9. Michael Berry – KTRH, Houston / Syndication

10. Joe Pagliarulo – WOAI, San Antonio / Compass Media Networks

11. Howard Stern – SiriusXM Satellite Radio

12. Glenn Beck – Premiere Networks

13. Lars Larson – KXL, Portland / Compass Media Networks

14. Lee Habeeb – Our American Stories

15. George Noory – Premiere Networks

16. Howie Carr – Howie Carr Radio Network

17. Jim Bohannon – Westwood One

18. Larry Elder – Salem Radio Network

19. Ben Shapiro – Westwood One

20. DJ Envy, Angela Yee, Charlamagne Tha God – Premiere Networks

21. Kim Komando – WestStar TalkRadio Network

22. Dom Giordano – WPHT, Philadelphia

23. Hugh Hewitt – Salem Radio Network

24. Bill Handel – KFI, Los Angeles

25. Ian Freeman and Mark Edge – Free Talk Live

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

TALKERS 2021 – Agenda (Updated Frequently)

By TALKERS | June 1, 2021 by TALKERS

TALKERS 2021

Presented by TALKERS in Association with WRHU Radio
Friday June 11, 2021 – Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY

Downloadable and printable map with directions to the exact location on the Hofstra Campus.

Sponsored by (in alphabetical order):

ABC News Radio – Asa Rx – Backbone Networks – The Michael Berry Show – Broadcasters General Store – Howie Carr Radio Network – Comrex – The DJV Show – The Ric Edelman Show – The Sean Hannity Show – Newsmax – Our American Stories – Premiere Networks – Radio America – The Ramsey Show – Talk Media Network

AGENDA

7:30 am – 6:00 pm – Registration Desk in Lobby of John Cranford Adams Playhouse

Registration Desk Open

________________________________________

8:00 am – 8:55 am – Reception Tent next to John Cranford Adams Playhouse

Breakfast

Sponsored by Sean Hannity / Premiere Networks

________________________________________

9:00 am – 5:00 pm – Lobby of John Cranford Adams Playhouse

Exhibits Open

Backbone Networks

Representative: Richard Cerny

Broadcasters General Store

Representative: Buck Waters

Comrex

Representative: Raul Hun

____________________________________________

9:00 am – 9:55 am – John Cranford Adams Playhouse

Opening Presentations

Morning Greetings

Emcee: David Bernstein, General Manager Broadcast Operations, TALKERS

Welcoming Remarks: Jimmy Failla, talk show host, Fox News Radio

Special Message: Sean Hannity, Talk Show Host, Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel (on video)

Tribute to Broadcasters Foundation of America: Harry Hurley, talk show host, WPG, Atlantic City

Sponsored by Asa RX

____________________________________________

10:00 am – 10:40 am – John Cranford Adams Playhouse

Panel Discussion

Generating Talk Radio Revenue in a Noisy Digital World

Introduction: Holland Cooke, Media Consultant / Talk Show host, RT America (on video)

Moderator: Jim Bohannon, Talk Show Host, Westwood One

Panelists:

Marc Beaven, General Manager, WCBM, Baltimore

Kathy Carr, President, Howie Carr Radio Network, Boston

Paul Gleiser, President/Owner, KTBB, Tyler, TX

Erik Hellum, Chief Operating Officer, Townsquare Media, New York/RAB

Christine Travaglini, President, Katz Radio Group, New York/RAB

Paul Vandenburgh, Owner/Morning Show Host, Talk 1300 WGDJ, Albany, NY

Sponsored by Premiere Networks

____________________________________________

10:45 am – 11:00 am – John Cranford Adams Playhouse

Welcome to the 20’s

Speaker: Michael Harrison, Publisher, TALKERS

Sponsored by Backbone Networks

____________________________________________

11:00 am – 11:25 am – John Cranford Adams Playhouse

Fireside Chat

Host: Michael Harrison, Publisher, TALKERS

Guest: Bill O’Reilly, Commentator, Key Networks

Sponsored by Comrex

____________________________________________

11:30 am – 12:10 pm – John Cranford Adams Playhouse

Programming News/Talk Radio in the ‘20s

Introduction: Doug Stephan, Talk Show Host/CEO Stephan Multimedia

Moderator: Mike McVay, President, McVay Media Consulting

Panelists:

Phil Boyce, Senior VP/Spoken Word Format, Salem Media Group/Salem Radio Network; Operations VP, New York Region

Michael Czarnecki, Program Director, WONK-FM, Washington, DC and iHeart Podcast Network

Dave LaBrozzi, Senior Vice President of Programming, Red Apple Media

Josh Leng, CEO, Talk Media Network

Greg Stocker, Executive Producer, Rich Zeoli Show/Assistant Program Director, WPHT, Philadelphia

Joe Thomas, Program Director/Morning Show Host, WCHV, Charlottesville, VA

Sponsored by the DJV Show
____________________________________________

12:15 pm – 1:15 pm – Reception Tent next to John Cranford Adams Playhouse

Lunch

Welcoming Remarks: Mark Lukasiewicz, Dean, Lawrence Herbert School of Communication, Hofstra University

Special Remarks: Lawrence Jones, Enterprise Reporter, “Fox & Friends”

____________________________________________

1:20 pm – 1:45 pm – John Cranford Adams Playhouse

Keynote Address

Introduction: Frank MacKay, Talk Show Host, (Long Island News Radio) WRCN-FM, Riverhead, NY

Speaker: Brian Kilmeade, Talk Show Host, Fox News Radio/Fox News Channel

Sponsored by the Ric Edelman Show

____________________________________________

1:50 pm – 2:30 pm – John Cranford Adams Playhouse

Panel Discussion

Strategizing a Talk Show Hosting Career

Introduction: Dick Morris, Talk Show Host, Newsmax/WABC, New York/ Blogger, DickMorris.com

Moderator: Kevin Casey, Vice President/Executive Editor, TALKERS

Panelists:

Rob Carson, Talk Show Host/commentator, Newsmax TV

Heather Cohen, Executive Vice President, The Weiss Agency

Grace Curley, Howie Carr Radio Network/WRKO, Boston

Erick Erickson, Talk Show Host, WSB, Atlanta

Dom Giordano, Talk Show Host, WPHT, Philadelphia

Harry Hurley, Talk Show Host, WPG, Atlantic City, NJ

Sponsored by the Michael Berry Show

____________________________________________

2:40 pm – 3:20 pm – John Cranford Adams Playhouse

Panel Discussion

What Radio Must Do to Survive and Thrive

Introduction: Dr. Ira Nash, Senior Vice President/Executive Director, Northwell Health Physicians Partners

Moderator: Michael Harrison, Publisher, TALKERS

Panelists:

Bruce Avery, General Manager, WRHU Radio

Vince Benedetto, CEO, Bold Gold Media Group

Chris Oliviero, Senior Vice President/Market Manager Audacy, New York

Walter Sterling, Talk Show Host, “Sterling on Sunday”

Julie Talbott, President, Premiere Networks

Sponsored by the Ramsey Show

____________________________________________

3:25 pm – 4:05 pm – John Cranford Adams Playhouse

Panel Discussion

Attracting Younger Demos and Broadening the Base

Moderator: John T. Mullen, operations director, WRHU Radio, Hempstead, NY

Speakers:

Dr. Asa Andrew, Talk Show Host, Asa RX

Mike “Bax” Baxendale, Morning Co-host, WAQY-FM (Rock 102) Springfield, MA

Derek Hunter, Talk Show Host, WCBM, Baltimore

Sid Rosenberg, Morning Co-host, WABC, New York

Brett Winterble, Talk Show Host, WBT, Charlotte

Martha Zoller, Talk Show Host, WDUN, Gainesville, GA

Sponsored by Broadcasters General Store

____________________________________________

4:10 pm – 4:50 pm – John Cranford Adams Playhouse

Panel Discussion

Maintaining Integrity in Times of Political and Cultural Change

Introduction: Brad Shepard, General Manager, Pioneer Valley Radio, Springfield, MA

Moderator: Lee Harris, Morning Drive News Anchor, WINS, New York

Panelists:

Juliet Huddy, Talk Show Host WABC, New York

Dr. Lisa Mozer, Talk Show Host, WSIC, Statesville, NC /Podcaster, “Teacher Talk”

Dr. Daliah Wachs, Talk Show Host, Genesis Communications Network

Lisa Wexler, Talk Show Host, WICC, Bridgeport/Probate Judge, State of Connecticut

Larry Young, Talk Show Host WOLB, Baltimore

Rich Zeoli, Talk Show Host, WPHT, Philadelphia

Sponsored by ABC News Radio

____________________________________________

5:00 pm – 6:00 pm – Reception Tent next to John Cranford Adams Playhouse

Closing Reception

Sponsored by Newsmax

PROGRAM SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

Expert Guests

By Editor | October 1, 2020 by Editor

How Libertarianism Can Save America. Dr. Murray Sabrin Explains Libertarianism and How It Relates to Today’s Hottest Issues. One of the nation’s most respected authorities on libertarianism, retired professor of finance, prolific author, and former Libertarian nominee for Governor of New Jersey, Dr. Sabrin pulls no punches on inflation, the Russia-Ukraine war, immigration, the polarization of America, supply chain breakdowns, COVID-19 and a whole lot more. To book a guest appearance, contact Victoria Jones at the DC Radio Company. 917-865-3991. victoria@dcradiocompany.com.

Michael Harrison “Idiots” Tour Off and Running. TALKERS founder Michael Harrison has appeared as a guest on a number of major local and national radio talk shows covering several hundred stations across the nation during the past three weeks discussing the musical track “Idiots” on which he appears as lead vocalist with the iconic classic rock band, GUNHILL ROAD. “Idiots” is a catchy song with an ear-worm hook and provocative lyrics taking aim at what Harrison describes as the “growing wave of idiocy that’s spreading across America and threatening the nation’s democracy.” Harrison wrote the song in collaboration with his bandmates – Steve Goldrich, Paul Reisch and Brian Koonin. Since its release in late August, the song’s music video (www.idiotsvideo.com) has racked up thousands of views on YouTube and gotten airplay on dozens of talk shows and radio station websites. “Ironically, the song is becoming somewhat of a talk radio hit,” says Harrison. “The music stations haven’t a clue what to do with it because it doesn’t fit conveniently into their cookie cutter categories. Today’s music radio doesn’t have the flexibility to include those ‘odd’ and ‘offbeat’ songs that would occasionally come down the pike and become hits in pop’s golden era. However, talk radio programmers get it.” One of the song’s qualities that adds to its talk show appeal and support from both liberals and conservatives is its non-partisanship. Harrison calls it an “equal opportunity offender.” Harrison plans to continue the Talk Radio Idiots Tour through the fall. Shows and hosts interested in booking him as a guest can do so by emailing info@talkers.com or calling Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413. Click here to see the video.

Jack Marshall – ProEthics, Ltd. Innovator in ethics training and consulting in law, accounting, business; national, state, local and foreign governments; non-profits and associations. President of ProEthics, an ethics and compliance firm dedicated to helping organizations and professions build ethical cultures; also Adjunct Professor of Legal Ethics at American University in Washington, D.C. A Harvard and Georgetown-educated attorney, his ethics commentary has appeared in O and The Hardball Times Annual, and heard on NPR’s “Tell Me More!” He writes about the ethics issues of current events on his website, The Ethics Scoreboard. He is also the co-editor, with Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Ed Larson, of The Essential Words and Writings of Clarence Darrow, published by Modern Library. Contact guest directly in Alexandria, VA. Main phone: 703-548-5229. jamproethics@verizon.net. More info: https://www.expertclick.com/ex/Ethics

Liza Amlani – Retail Strategy Expert. Liza Amlani is a retail industry veteran and the go-to expert in retail merchandising, product creation, and accelerating speed to market. In a career spanning 20+ years, Liza has worked with familiar brands including Holt Renfrew, Ralph Lauren Europe and Canada, Club Monaco, Nike, Walmart. Liza founded Retail Strategy Group in 2020 – a consulting practice helping companies in the retail space dramatically improve profitability and increase organizational effectiveness. Liza’s opinion is sought after and is held in high regard; Liza is a regular contributor to RetailWire, Bloomberg, Forbes, and Footwear News & Sourcing Journal. She also brings a wealth of global insight to her work given the number of stamps in her passport and countries in which she has resided – Liza has moved over 27 times in her life. Media Contact: Raj Dhiman in London, ON, Canada. Contact phone: 416-627-3008. raj@retailstrategygroup.com. More info: https://www.expertclick.com/ex/Retail-Strategy-Expert

Lifesaving Resources to Conduct 2023 Ice Rescue Instructor Academy. Gerald M. Dworkin – Consultant, Aquatics Safety and Water Rescue. The 2023 International Ice Rescue Instructor Academy is scheduled for February 16-19 in Portland, Maine. This intensive four-day luxury boot-camp style Academy is designed to train First Responders as Ice Rescue Instructors who, upon completion of the Academy, will be authorized to conduct Ice Rescue Awareness, Operations and Technician level courses to members of their own department. Tuition includes all books and materials, single-occupancy hotel lodging, all meals, and four days of intensive and comprehensive training consisting of 12+ classroom hours and 20+ on/through-the-ice practical sessions, including a Night Ops session. Lifesaving Resources has been conducting similar Academies since 1990 and has trained and authorized over 500 instructors from throughout the United States and Canada. Lifesaving Resources’ training programs meet/exceed NFPA 1670 & NFPA 1006 Standards for Technical Rescue. Contact guest directly at Lifesaving Resources, LLC. Direct phone: 207-967-8614. gerald@lifesaving.com. More info: https://www.expertclick.com/NRWire/Releasedetails.aspx?id=277434.

2020 Talkers Heavy Hundred • 76-100

By Editor | July 16, 2020August 17, 2026 by Editor

76. Roe Conn – WGN, Chicago

77. Tom Griswold – Westwood One

78. John Fredericks – John Fredericks Radio Network

79. Clyde Lewis – KXL-FM, Portland

80. Tony Katz – WIBC, Indianapolis / Syndication

81. Daliah Wachs – Genesis Communications Network

82. John Williams – WGN, Chicago

83. Jeffrey Kuhner – WRKO, Boston

84. Larry Gaydos – KTAR-FM, Phoenix

85. John DePetro – WNRI, Providence

86. Chad Benson – Radio America

87. Heidi Harris – KMZQ, Las Vegas

88. Eric Von Haessler – WSB, Atlanta

89. Todd Starnes – Starnes Media Group / Hamilton Strategies

90. Jamie Markley, David van Camp & Scott Robbins – Compass Media Networks

91. John Batchelor – WABC, New York / Westwood One

92. Mike Calta – WHPT-FM, Tampa

93. Jeff Wagner – WTMJ, Milwaukee

94. Brett Winterble – WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte

95. Gordon Deal – Compass Media Networks

96. Ken Matthews – WHP, Harrisburg

97. James T. Harris – KFYI, Phoenix

98. Dennis & Judi – WKXW, Trenton

99. Brian Whitman & Jennifer Horn – KRLA, Los Angeles / KTIE, San Bernardino

100. Andrew Wilkow – SiriusXM

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

2020 Talkers Heavy Hundred • 26-50

By Editor | July 16, 2020August 17, 2026 by Editor

26. Dom Giordano – WPHT, Philadelphia

27. Sebastian Gorka – Salem Radio Network

28. John & Ken – KFI, Los Angeles

29. Larry Elder – Salem Radio Network

30. Lee Habeeb – Our American Stories

31. Doug Stephan – Stephan Multimedia

32. Larry O’Connor – WMAL-FM, Washington

33. Dennis Prager – Salem Radio Network

34. Rich Zeoli – WPHT, Philadelphia

35. Chris Plante – Westwood One

36. Curtis & Juliet – WABC, New York

37. Karen Hunter – SiriusXM

38. Kim Komando – WestStar TalkRadio Network

39. Michael Smerconish – SiriusXM

40. Stephanie Miller – WYD Media

41. Larry Young – WOLB, Baltimore

42. Michael Medved – KTTH, Seattle / Syndication

43. Bill Cunningham – WLW, Cincinnati

44. Phil Valentine – WWTN, Nashville

45. Dan Yorke – WPRO, Providence

46. Mandy Connell – KOA, Denver

47. Harry Hurley – WPGG, Atlantic City

48. Mark Reardon – KMOX, St. Louis

49. Tim Conway, Jr. – KFI, Los Angeles

50. Todd Schnitt – Compass Media Networks

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

2020 Talkers Heavy Hundred • 1-25

By Editor | July 16, 2020August 17, 2026 by Editor

1. Sean Hannity – Premiere Networks

2. Rush Limbaugh – Premiere Networks

3. Dave Ramsey – The Dave Ramsey Show

4. Mark Levin – Westwood One

5. Brian Kilmeade – FOX News Radio

6. Joe Madison – SiriusXM

7. Howard Stern – SiriusXM

8. Thom Hartmann – WYD Media

9. Mike Gallagher – Salem Radio Network

10. Glenn Beck – Premiere Networks

11. Michael Berry – KTRH, Houston / Syndication

12. Joe Pagliarulo – WOAI, San Antonio / Compass Media Networks

13. Lars Larson – KXL, Portland / Compass Media Networks

14. Ben Shapiro – Westwood One

15. George Noory – Premiere Networks

16. Howie Carr – Howie Carr Radio Network

17. Dana Loesch – Radio America

18. Jim Bohannon – Westwood One

19. Michael Savage – Westwood One

20. DJ Envy, Angela Yee, Charlamagne Tha God – WWPR-FM, New York / Premiere Networks

21. Hugh Hewitt – Salem Radio Network

22. Bill Handel – KFI, Los Angeles / Syndication

23. Armstrong & Getty – KSTE, Sacramento / Syndication

24. Bernie & Sid – WABC, New York

25. Ian Freeman & Mark Edge – Free Talk Live

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

2020 TALKERS Sports Heavy Hundred • 1-25

By Editor | May 18, 2020August 17, 2026 by Editor

1. Colin Cowherd – FOX Sports Radio

2. Jim Rome – CBS Sports Radio

3. Dan Patrick – FOX Sports Radio

4. Boomer Esiason & Gregg Giannotti – WFAN-AM/FM New York

5. Mike Felger & Tony Massarotti – WBZ-FM, Boston

6. Dan Le Batard & Stugotz – ESPN Radio

7. Fred Toettcher & Rich Shertenlieb – WBZ-FM, Boston

8. Jason Bishop, John Auville, John-Paul Flaim & Eric Bickel – WJFK-FM, Washington

9. Michael Kay – WEPN-FM, New York

10. Mike Francesa – WFAN-AM/FM, New York

11. Angelo Cataldi – WIP-FM, Philadelphia

12. Bob Sturm & Corby Davidson – KTCK-AM/FM Dallas

13. Mike Valenti – WXYT-FM, Detroit

14. Mike Missanelli – WPEN-FM, Philadelphia

15. Tom Tolbert, Larry Krueger & Rod Brooks – KNBR, San Francisco

16. Joe Benigno & Evan Roberts – WFAN-AM/FM New York

17. Mike Mulligan & David Haugh – WSCR, Chicago

18. Carl Dukes & Mike Bell – WZGC-FM, Atlanta

19. Shan & R.J. – KRLD-FM, Dallas

20. George Dunham, Craig Miller & Gordon Keith – KTCK-AM/FM, Dallas

21. Greg Papa & John Lund – KNBR, San Francisco

22. Scott Zolak & Marc Bertrand – WBZ-FM, Boston

23. Dan McNeil & Danny Parkins – WSCR, Chicago

24. Tom Waddle & Marc Silverman – WMVP, Chicago

25. Dan Barreiro – KFXN, Minneapolis

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

2019 TALKERS Heavy Hundred 26-50

By Editor | June 3, 2019August 17, 2026 by Editor

26. Ian Freeman & Mark Edge – Free Talk Live

27. Sebastian Gorka – Salem Radio Network

28. John & Ken – KFI, Los Angeles

29. Chris Plante – Westwood One

30. Karen Hunter – SiriusXM

31. Dom Giordano – WPHT, Philadelphia

32. Lee Habeeb – Our American Stories

33. Dennis Prager – Salem Radio Network

34. Michael Smerconish – SiriusXM

35. Larry Elder – Salem Radio Network

36. Curtis & Juliet – WABC-AM

37. Stephanie Miller – WYD Media

38. Rich Zeoli – WPHT, Philadelphia

39. Bill Cunningham – WLW, Cincinnati / Premiere Networks

40. Kim Komando – WestStar TalkRadio Network

41. Larry Young – WOLB, Baltimore

42. Phil Valentine – WWTN, Nashville

43. Michael Medved – KTTH, Seattle / Independent Syndication

44. Todd Schnitt – WOR, New York / Compass Media Networks

45. Tim Conway, Jr. – KFI, Los Angeles

46. Mandy Connell – KOA, Denver

47. Dan Yorke – WPRO, Providence

48. Mark Reardon – KMOX, St. Louis

49. Alex Jones – Genesis Communications Network

50. Steve Cochran – WGN, Chicago

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

2019 TALKERS Heavy Hundred 1-25

By Editor | June 3, 2019August 17, 2026 by Editor

1. Sean Hannity – Premiere Networks

2. Rush Limbaugh – Premiere Networks

3. Dave Ramsey – The Dave Ramsey Show

4. Mark Levin – Westwood One

5. Howard Stern – SiriusXM

6. Joe Madison – SiriusXM

7. Brian Kilmeade – FOX News Channel / FOX News Radio

8. Thom Hartmann – WYD Media

9. Mike Gallagher – Salem Radio Network

10. Glenn Beck – Premiere Networks

11. George Noory – Premiere Networks

12. Ben Shapiro – Westwood One

13. Michael Berry – KTRH, Houston / Syndication

14. Joe Pagliarulo – WOAI, San Antonio / Compass Media Networks

15. Lars Larson – KXL, Portland / Compass Media Networks

16. Howie Carr – Howie Carr Radio Network

17. Dana Loesch – Radio America

18. Hugh Hewitt – Salem Radio Network

19. Jim Bohannon – Westwood One

20. Michael Savage – Westwood One

21. Armstrong & Getty – KSTE, Sacramento / Syndication

22. Bill Handel – KFI, Los Angeles

23. Bernie & Sid – WABC, New York

24. Doug Stephan – Stephan Multimedia

25. Larry O’Connor – WMAL-AM/FM Washington, DC

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

2019 TALKERS Heavy Hundred 76-100

By Editor | June 3, 2019August 17, 2026 by Editor

76. Roe Conn – WGN, Chicago

77. Tom Griswold – Westwood One

78. Lincoln Ware – WDBZ, Cincinnati

79. Clyde Lewis – KXL-FM, Portland

80. Simon Conway – WHO, Des Moines

81. Jeffrey Kuhner – WRKO, Boston

82. John Williams – WGN, Chicago

83. Daliah Wachs – Genesis Communications Network

84. Mac & Gaydos – KTAR-FM, Phoenix

85. John DePetro – WNRI, Providence

86. John Hancock – WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte

87. Heidi Harris – KMZQ, Las Vegas

88. Chad Benson – Radio America

89. John Fredericks – John Fredericks Radio Network

90. Len Berman & Michael Riedel – WOR, New York

91. John Batchelor – WABC/Westwood One New York

92. Mike Calta – WHPT-FM, Tampa

93. Jeff Wagner – WTMJ, Milwaukee

94. Jack Riccardi – KTSA, San Antonio

95. Joe Walsh – Salem Radio Network

96. Ken Matthews – WHP, Harrisburg

97. Gordon Deal – Compass Media Networks

98. Dennis & Judi – New Jersey 101.5

99. Andrew Wilkow – SiriusXM

100. Aaron Klein – WNYM, New York

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

2019 TALKERS Sports Heavy Hundred – 1-25

By Editor | April 3, 2019August 17, 2026 by Editor

1. Colin Cowherd – FOX Sports Radio

2. Jim Rome – CBS Sports Radio

3. Dan Patrick – DirecTV / FOX Sports Radio

4. Dan Le Batard & Stugotz – WAXY, Miami / ESPN Radio

5. Mike Felger & Tony Massarotti – WBZ-FM, Boston

6. Fred Toettcher & Rich Shertenlieb – WBZ-FM, Boston

7. Jason Bishop, John Auville, John-Paul Flaim & Eric Bickel – WJFK-FM, Washington

8. Angelo Cataldi – WIP-FM, Philadelphia

9. Boomer Esiason & Gregg Giannotti – WFAN-AM/FM New York

10. Mike Rhyner & Corby Davidson – KTCK-AM/FM, Dallas

11. Mike Francesa – WFAN, New York

12. Michael Kay, Don La Greca & Peter Rosenberg – WEPN-FM, New York

13. Mike Valenti – WXYT-FM, Detroit

14. Mike Missanelli – WPEN-FM, Philadelphia

15. Gary Radnich & Larry Krueger – KNBR, San Francisco

16. Mike Mutnansky & Gerry Callahan – WEEI Sports Radio Network Boston and New England

17. Mike Mulligan & David Haugh – WSCR, Chicago

18. Carl Dukes & Mike Bell – WZGC-FM, Atlanta

19. Shan & R.J. – KRLD-FM, Dallas

20. George Dunham, Craig Miller & Gordon Keith – KTCK-AM/FM, Dallas

21. Tom Tolbert & John Lund – KNBR, San Francisco

22. Dan McNeil & Danny Parkins – WSCR, Chicago

23. Tom Waddle & Marc Silverman – WMVP, Chicago

24. Mike Stone & Jamie Samuelson – WXYT-FM, Detroit

25. Sandra Golden, Steak Shapiro & Brian Finneran – WCNN, Atlanta

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

2018 TALKERS Heavy Hundred 76-100

By Editor | May 21, 2018August 17, 2026 by Editor

76. Karen Hunter – SiriusXM

77. Tom Griswold – Westwood One

78. Bill Spadea – WKXW, Trenton

79. Jeffrey Kuhner – WRKO, Boston

80. Simon Conway – WHO, Des Moines

81. Ric Edelman – Ric Edelman Show Fairfax, VA

82. John Williams – WGN, Chicago

83. Michael Brown – KHOW, Denver

84. Mac & Gaydos – KTAR-FM, Phoenix

85. Daliah Wachs – Genesis Communications Network

86. John Hancock – WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte

87. Clyde Lewis – KXL-FM, Portland

88. John DePetro – WNRI, Providence

89. Lincoln Ware – WDBZ, Cincinnati

90. Brian Joyce – WGOW-FM, Chattanooga

91. Chad Benson – Radio America

92. Mike Calta – WHPT-FM, Tampa

93. Jeff Wagner – WTMJ, Milwaukee

94. Lee Habeeb – Our American Stories

95. Joe Walsh – Salem Radio Network

96. David Webb – SiriusXM

97. Gordon Deal – Compass Media Networks

98. Dave Elswick – KHTE, Little Rock

99. John Gibson – Genesis Communications Network

100. Aaron Klein – WNYM, New York

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

2018 TALKERS Heavy Hundred 26-50

By Editor | May 21, 2018August 17, 2026 by Editor

26. Alex Jones – Genesis Communications Network

27. Ian Freeman & Mark Edge – Free Talk Live

28. John & Ken – KFI, Los Angeles

29. Larry O’Connor – WMAL-AM/FM Washington, DC

30. Stephanie Miller – WYD Media

31. Chris Plante – WMAL-AM/FM, Washington / Syndication

32. Dom Giordano – WPHT, Philadelphia

33. Michael Medved – Salem Radio Network

34. Michael Smerconish – SiriusXM

35. Dennis Prager – Salem Radio Network

36. Bill Cunningham – WLW, Cincinnati / Premiere Networks

37. Curtis & Cosby – WABC-AM

38. Chris Stigall – WPHT, Philadelphia

39. Phil Valentine – Westwood One

40. Kim Komando – WestStar TalkRadio Network

41. Kevin McCullough – XtreMEDIA LLC

42. Rich Zeoli – WPHT, Philadelphia

43. Tim Conway, Jr. – KFI, Los Angeles

44. Doug McIntyre – KABC, Los Angeles

45. Larry Young – WOLB, Baltimore

46. Mandy Connell – KOA, Denver

47. Ethan Bearman – KGO, San Francisco

48. Mark Reardon – KMOX, St. Louis

49. Bubba the Love Sponge – Bubba Radio Network

50. Steve Cochran – WGN, Chicago

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

2018 TALKERS Heavy Hundred 1-25

By Editor | May 21, 2018August 17, 2026 by Editor

1. Sean Hannity – Premiere Networks

2. Rush Limbaugh – Premiere Networks

3. Dave Ramsey – The Dave Ramsey Show

4. Mark Levin – Westwood One

5. Howard Stern – SiriusXM

6. Michael Savage – Westwood One

7. Joe Madison – SiriusXM

8. Laura Ingraham – Courtside Entertainment LLC

9. Thom Hartmann – WYD Media

10. Mike Gallagher – Salem Radio Network

11. Glenn Beck – Premiere Networks

12. George Noory – Premiere Networks

13. Michael Berry – KTRH, Houston / Syndication

14. Joe Pagliarulo – WOAI, San Antonio / Compass Media Networks

15. Lars Larson – KXL, Portland / Compass Media Networks

16. Howie Carr – Howie Carr Radio Network

17. Brian Kilmeade – FOX News Channel / FOX News Radio

18. Hugh Hewitt – Salem Radio Network

19. Jim Bohannon – Westwood One

20. Dana Loesch – Radio America

21. Bill Handel – KFI, Los Angeles

22. Doug Stephan – Stephan Multimedia

23. Todd Schnitt – Compass Media Networks

24. Armstrong & Getty – KSTE, Sacramento / Syndication

25. Bernie & Sid – WABC, New York

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

2018 TALKERS Sports Heavy Hundred – 1-25

By Editor | March 14, 2018August 17, 2026 by Editor

1. Colin Cowherd – FOX Sports Radio

2. Jim Rome – CBS Sports Radio

3. Dan Patrick – DirecTV / FOX Sports Radio

4. Dan Le Batard & Stugotz – WAXY, Miami / ESPN Radio

5. Boomer Esiason & Gregg Giannotti – WFAN-AM/FM New York

6. Mike Felger & Tony Massarotti – WBZ-FM, Boston

7. Kirk Minihane & Gerry Callahan – WEEI Sports Radio Network, Boston and New England

8. Angelo Cataldi – WIP-FM, Philadelphia

9. Fred Toettcher & Rich Shertenlieb – WBZ-FM, Boston

10. Tom Waddle & Marc Silverman – WMVP, Chicago

11. Mike Mulligan & Brian Hanley – WSCR, Chicago

12. Jason Bishop, John Auville, John-Paul Flaim & Eric Bickel – WJFK-FM, Washington

13. Mike Rhyner & Corby Davidson – KTCK-AM/FM, Dallas

14. Mike Valenti – WXYT-FM, Detroit

15. Mike Missanelli – WPEN-FM, Philadelphia

16. George Dunham, Craig Miller & Gordon Keith – KTCK-AM/FM, Dallas

17. Gary Radnich & Larry Krueger – KNBR, San Francisco

18. Dan Bernstein – WSCR, Chicago

19. Mike Stone & Jamie Samuelson – WXYT-FM, Detroit

20. Tom Tolbert & John Lund – KNBR, San Francisco

21. Carl Dukes & Mike Bell – WZGC, Atlanta

22. Doug Karsch & Scott Anderson – WXYT-FM, Detroit

23. Shan & R.J. – KRLD-FM, Dallas

24. Brock Huard & Mike Salk – KIRO-AM, Seattle

25. Anthony Gargano – WPEN-FM, Philadelphia

1 – 25 | 26 – 50 | 51 – 75 | 76 – 100

TALKERS 2021

Presented by TALKERS in Association with WRHU Radio Friday June 11, 2021 – Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY

Presented by TALKERS in Association with WRHU Radio
Friday June 11, 2021 – Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY