Industry News

Anthony Cumia to Host Sunday Night Show on WABC

As tipped by Anthony Cumia himself via X over the weekend, the former “Opie & Anthony” personality and current host of his own show on CompoundCensored will begin hosting a Sunday evening show on Redimg Apple Media’s 77WABC Radio beginning this week (3/9). Red Apple says “The Anthony Cumia Show” will air Sundays from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm ET. Cumia says, “I am beyond thrilled to join 77WABC. They are the only ones doing great radio, and I’m looking forward to having a blast and connecting with my fans. I’m grateful to John [Catsimatidis] and Chad [Lopez] for offering me this opportunity. We’re going to have a great time!” Lopez says, “Anthony has a strong and loyal following who have missed him on New York radio. Anthony brings another element of entertainment to our weekend programming, which is about having fun.”

Industry News

Bay Area Radio Vets Launch Digital Sports Talk Network

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A group of Bay Area radio personalities are getting together to launch a digital sports talk network called Bay Area Sports Collective. Former KNBR, San Francisco personalities Tom Tolbert, Paul McCaffrey, and John Lund, along with former KNBR PD Jeremiah Crowe are co-founding the network that will initially feature three podcasts that will also be broadcast live on YouTube. The network debuts today with “The Tom Tolbert Show,” “Paulie Mac’s Particles” and “John Lund Unleashed.” Crowe will direct business operations, marketing, and sales for the sports podcast network. Additionally, the new podcast network features daily on and off-air contributions from Tony Rhein and Daniel Ogden, both longtime Bay Area radio producers. Crowe says, “This announcement marks the dawn of a new day for the underserved Bay Area Sports fan. They deserve better. We are thrilled to launch The Bay Area Sports Collective with three very influential, entertaining, and experienced hosts who all remain dedicated to their craft. We are open to additional shows and talent joining our network in the future and look forward to scaling our unique talent-friendly business model into additional markets. Multiple professional Sports franchises have already expressed strong interest in migrating programming to our network, and local blue-chip advertisers have also contacted our team. We are excited to open the floodgates and provide Bay Area Sports fans with a more convenient way of finding their favorite shows, whether live or on-demand. This is the future of sports entertainment.

Industry News

Katz Media Group Raises $47,000-plus for Broadcasters Foundation

The Broadcasters Foundation of America announces that Katz Media Group has raised more than $47,000 during its 13th annual companywide membership drive. This year’s generous contribution brings the total amount raised by Katz to nearly $500,000 since the drive’s inception. Every dollar raised directly supports the Stu Olds Memorial Fund, which commemorates Katz’s former CEO and aids broadcasters and theirimg families during life’s most challenging moments. Broadcasters Foundation of America president Tim McCarthy says, “For over 70 years, the Broadcasters Foundation has provided critical aid—ranging from medical care to emergency financial assistance—for broadcasters facing hard times. The steadfast generosity of Katz Media Group makes it possible for us to continue our mission, and I can’t thank the Katz team enough for their ongoing commitment.” Katz Media Group has been selected to receive the 2025 Philip J. Lombardo Spirit Award, which will be presented at the BFOA Golden Mic Gala on March 10. This prestigious honor recognizes Katz’s dedication to supporting the Broadcasters Foundation of America and its mission of helping broadcasters in need.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Las Vegas-based, nationally syndicated talk host Wayne Allyn Root tells TALKERS that he is a member ofimg the “Private Economic Council” – a Washington, DC-based organization composed of “influential business leaders, entrepreneurs and economists promoting free market tax policies, advocating for taxpayers, and helping to support and promote President Trump’s economic agenda.” It also includes former Trump senior economic advisor and former member of the Wall Street Journal editorial board Steve Moore, Papa John’s founder John Schnatter, and former U.S. congressman and current Liberty University School of Business Dean Dave Brat.

Cumulus Media’s KESP-AM, Modesto-Stockton “Sports Radio 970 AM” is the new Central Valley radio broadcast home of the San Francisco Giants. The station is also the official radio broadcast home for the San Francisco 49ers, the Golden State Warriors, and the San Jose Sharks. Cumulus regional VP and market manager Patty Hixson says, “We are thrilled to have this affiliation with the San Francisco Giants. This is a very special franchise and now we get to share all the baseball action with our Sports Radio AM 970 fans. Go Giants!”

Industry News

Montague Upped to Promotions Director for iHeartMedia NYC Stations

iHeartMedia New York promotes David Montague to promotions director for New York City stations news/talk WOR-AM and music outlets hip hop WWPR-FM and classic rock WAXQ-FM. iHeartMedia Newimg York director of marketing and promotions Emily Magelof says, “David’s creativity, vision, and dedication have been instrumental in driving our brands. We are excited for him to continue elevating our promotional efforts, ensuring even greater success in the future.” Montague comments, “I am truly honored for this accomplishment and excited for the future. I want to thank my support system at iHeartMedia, friends and family for their continued confidence and believing in me.”

Industry News

Dr. Daliah Wachs Show Adds New Affiliates

The Talk Media Network nationally syndicated program “The Dr. Daliah Wachs Show” is added to the program lineup at KEUN-AM, Eunice, Louisiana; WGNY-AM, Newburgh, New York; and WNRI, Woonsocket, Rhode Island.

Industry Views

Sabo Sez: Promoting Doom

By Walter Sabo
a.k.a. Walter M Sterling
Host, Sterling Every Damn Night
WPHT, Philadelphia
Sterling On Sunday, Syndicated, TMN

imgDuring my tenure at NBC, once a month the division heads would meet at the behest of the CEO to report on their progress and trends in their sector. As the executive vice president of the FM division, I took a seat in that formidable group and tried to keep my remarks as brief as possible. What could I possibly say that would be more damn important than the words of the president of NBC News or the NBC Television network? In addition to NBC’s CEO, the CEO of owner RCA would often join the fun.

Cable TV was flourishing, and CNN had just launched. I was at least 15 years younger than everyone in that meeting and had a different perspective on cable. Therefore, I was shocked by this exchange:

The CEO asked the president of NBC News what he thought of CNN. The President of NEWS said these exact words:

“It might do well for breaking news but otherwise it will not take the place of our news.”

Next on the staff meeting agenda was a discussion of HBO. Should NBC run spots for HBO? Again, the group did not think HBO would be much of a factor on the entertainment menu. They agreed to run the spots promoting HBO. Yes, I objected but lost.

In its first three decades, CNN was a serious factor for news, ratings, and revenue. CNN brilliantly made partnership deals with local TV stations to exchange stories and carriage. Independent TV stations could tap CNN feeds for breaking news coverage. Those deals, requiring no cable, established CNN at viewer level in every city.

HBO last year won more Emmys than NBC, CBS, ABC and FOX combined. In fact only one Emmy went to a traditional network last year: “Abbott Elementary,” ABC.

Radio’s inherent advantage over all other mass media is its distribution system. Elegant and free, it just works! A decision was made about 10 years ago by many radio companies to use radio’s power, clout, and credibility to promote podcasts. Podcasts… hard to find, hard to hear, and requiring expensive equipment that suffers from buffering now.  The hidden reason for the podcast push is that Wall Street doesn’t love legacy media. They like new things even if the new thing is deeply flawed. When needing money or liquidation, legacy media companies proudly point to their listening STREAMS.

Commercial broadcasters have proven to be not so great at podcasting.  Of course not. It’s a different medium: On-demand audio that can be paused and reviewed. Radio DJs and talk hosts were never trained or attracted to audio creation that is blind to time of day and repeated. It’s different. Why promote it? It’s like NBC promoting HBO.

The good news? Wall Street is realizing the proven appeal of legacy media: The George Soros Funds invested in Audacy. Apollo Advisors, the first-in money for Sirius, now owns Cox Broadcasting. Time to stop throwing our time spent listening and creative energy at podcasts that price their audience lower than legacy media. Bad business.

The wise way to benefit from the podcast revenue opportunity is to buy what works. Acquire existing, successful podcasts and aggregators.

Walter Sabo has been a C Suite action partner for companies such as SiriusXM, Hearst, Press Broadcasting, Gannett, RKO General and many other leading media outlets. His company HITVIEWS, in 2007, was the first to identify and monetize video influencers.. His nightly show “Walter Sterling Every Damn Night” is heard on WPHT, Philadelphia. His syndicated show, “Sterling On Sunday,” from Talk Media Network, airs 10:00 pm-1:00 am ET, and is now in its 10th year of success. He can be reached by email at sabowalter@gmail.com

Industry News

Former NY Governor Patterson Joins 77WABC Show

Red Apple Media announces that former New York Governor David Patterson is joining 77WABC for the program “Left vs. Right” alongside host James Flippin. The station says. “‘Left vs Right’ is a riveting debate every Saturday, from 4:00 pm-5:00 pm, of who’s right, who’s wrong, and where is the common-senseimg solution that brings both sides together for progress and unity. Patterson and Flippin battle the political, social, and economic differences, ultimately landing on common sense and the truth in every situation.” Red Apple owner John Catsimatidis says, “I have known David for many years. He is a common-sense politician, with the ability to make insightful observations about national and local politics. David represents the Democratic perspective with a level-head and a focus on finding the common ground that unites us and moves us forward. Our listeners already know David. His entrée as a regularly scheduled co-host of ‘Left vs. Right’ will be a welcome addition to our listeners.” Patterson says, “I am thrilled to be a part of the permanent WABC Radio lineup and to represent the left side of things. As Americans, we have more in common than we might realize. With common sense, we can come together as Americans and New Yorkers and solve our problems. I’m looking forward to working with James and helping to bring New Yorkers together.”

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks General Sales Manager in Seattle

Lotus Communications is seeking an experienced and results-driven broadcasting general sales manager to lead their sales team and drive revenue growth across our diverse broadcasting portfolio. The GSM directsimg the team to develop, sell and service local business. The position is responsible for delivering assigned revenue targets through managing sales team efforts, developing sales talent and monthly business planning. The GSM develops relationships with businesses, engages with networks such as chambers, business alliances etc. to uncover opportunities within the local market. The GSM will maintain an account list while helping the sales team sell and develop cohesive campaigns for new direct businesses. Send your resume here.

Industry News

SiriusXM to Launch “Page Six Radio” Program

SiriusXM is partnering with the New York Post to launch “Page Six Radio,” a new daily morning show highlighting the latest celebrity and pop culture news from the paper’s Page Six. The program is being hosted by Danny Murphy, Evan Real, and editor Ian Mohr and will debut on March 31. The two-hour showimg will air on SiriusXM’s Stars channel from 8:00 am to 10:00 am. SiriusXM president and chief content officer Scott Greenstein comments, “Page Six has been a powerhouse for all celebrity news for nearly half a century, and by teaming up with our in-house experts here at SiriusXM, this new show is sure to be the ultimate destination for pop culture fans. With the launch of ‘Page Six Radio,’ we are transforming the publication’s stories to a dynamic new format that will expand its reach and resonate with SiriusXM listeners who turn to the platform for all the latest entertainment news.”

Industry News

“New Jersey 101.5” Presents Town Hall on Terror Threats

Tomorrow evening (2/27), Townsquare Media’s WKXW-FM, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” presents a special Town Hall broadcast titled, “Today’s Terrorism Threats.” The Town Hall-style discussion explores the domestic and foreign terrorist threats facing New Jersey. Station political director Eric Scott leads theimg discussion that will include experts educating New Jersey residents about how to identify threats and what to do when one’s personal safety is in jeopardy. The program will also expose the growing threat posed to children who are increasingly being groomed and recruited by extremists online. He says, “Law enforcement is increasingly concerned about both foreign and domestic threats. But the rate at which extremists are targeting our children is particularly alarming.” On-air guests will include: Carl Priddy, acting assistant special agent in charge of counterterrorism for the Newark FBI office; Laurie R. Doran, director of the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness; Adam McMahon, assistant professor of political science at Rider University; and John Pizzuro, CEO of Raven and former commander of the New Jersey State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

Industry News

Wayne Allyn Root Show to Be Simulcast on UntamedNation Platform

Las Vegas-based talk media personality Wayne Allyn Root announces that his Talk Media Network nationally syndicated radio show will be simulcast as a two-hour podcast on UntamedNation.com andimg streamed live on Rumble, and soon on both YouTube and X. Root tells TALKERS, “I’m thrilled to announce I’m now part of ‘Untamed Nation’ two hours a day. This gives my fans a daily choice – they can listen to my talk show on the radio, or they can watch both hours streamed as a podcast. Untamed is quite a unique platform. Untamed cuts through the noise and brings the truth to light. We are bold, empowering, and disruptive. No filters, no fear. Just raw untamed truth. It’s the perfect platform for ‘the loudest MAGA mouth in the world.’”

Features

New York Radio Team Finds a Home in Cape Town

By Dr. Andrew Gladding, EdD
Chief Engineer
WMCA / WNYM, New York

 

The power of broadcast radio stems from its genesis, which is the use of audio technology and storytelling to transmit messages to large audiences. As industry professionals, we are all acquainted with the power and reach that our trade provides. However, all stories must begin with the spark of an idea. In the case of the curious collaboration between a college radio station in New York and a community radio station in South Africa, this idea started with a simple conversation.

The relationship between 88.7FM WRHU Radio Hofstra University and 89.5FM Bush Radio in Cape Town South Africa began purely as a matter of proximity. In the winter of 2018, I happened upon Bush Radio while in South Africa while on a family vacation. Meeting the passionate broadcasters at Bush Radio has resulted in a fruitful broadcast collaboration spanning six years and many exchanges of audio, information and support between our two broadcast organizations. Students at WRHU in New York, WRCT in Pittsburg and members of Bush Radio  co-produce a weekly show called “The 1World Community Radio Show,” which features interviews and music from around the world. WRHU’s Ricky Hubert, WRCT’s Cody Hmelar and Bush Radio host Lydia Marwanqana connect weekly to create a truly unique program that provides a world stage for young, aspiring talent. The show has become a centerpiece of programming for both stations and an example of how stations across the globe can work together to create engaging, community focused audio content. It has also allowed staff members from both stations to develop insight into each other’s cultures and communities.

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Pictured above (from l-r) are: Sturgeon Records President David Chapman, Salem NY Chief Engineer Andy Gladding, Bush Radio engineer Renato Van Schalkwyk, WRHU general manager John Mullen, Bush Radio managing director Brenda Leonard, Bush Radio host Jasnine Roberts, WCWP general manager Dan Cox and WKZE “Night Shade” host Paul Higgins at the Bush Radio Studios in Salt River, Cape Town.

In the fall of 2024, members of Bush Radio came to New York City and Washington DC  to cover the presidential elections. The purpose of the trip was to find new ways to combat journalistic misinformation. The visit exposed Bush Radio staff members to American journalistic values, broadcast operational practices provided the international broadcasters with an up-front look at the US democratic process in action.

In February of this year, In the spirit of maintaining and strengthening our broadcast partnership, five members of New York radio and audio media , including myself, traveled to Cape Town to see how the Bush Radio folks used their FM reach and power to serve their community. The goals of this part of the exchange were to deepen our understanding of South African media, operations, practices and workplace culture. We went into this journey with our minds and hearts wide open, ready to see how the craft that we know and love was practiced on the other side the world.

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Pictured above is Andy Gladding working with Bush Radio engineer Renato Van Schalkwyk to install Comrex hardware in the Bush Radio Air Studio.

The results of this visit were eye opening. During our visit to Cape Town, we observed several similarities between our stations in New York and our South African counterparts. The Bush Radio staff was extremely dedicated to their station and took great pride in serving their community. They used their centrally located studies as both a broadcast center and training facility, with a thriving mentorship and intern program. We also noticed that they followed almost identical practices and standards as we do in the USA, ranging from technical specifications for broadcast engineering to maintaining programmatical integrity. Even the energy and excitement among the staff in the studios and reporting from the field was comparable to any well-run US broadcast entity. This is mainly due to the fact that the folks who run Bush Radio, specifically Managing Director Brenda Leonard and Program Director Adrian Louw, execute a comprehensive and extensive training and operational workflow at the station. Bush Radio holds the proud distinction of being the first licensed community radio station in South Africa, which was achieved with great effort and sacrifice during a time when the practice of community radio was non-existent in the country. Therefore, the management is very observant and powerful of the weight that they carry and this respect is passed along to the station members.

We also noticed some stark differences. Due to the relatively young nature of the South African democracy, there appeared to be a deeper connection between station and community. Bush Radio is involved in many different aspects of Cape Town governance, culture and outreach and this is reflected in their on-air product and station ethos. We also observed that many members of the general public were familiar with the station and proudly considered themselves to be regular listeners and supporters. The station was closely intertwined within the fabric of the community, which is both wide and diverse.

We also noticed that there was an intrinsic willingness between Bush and other community stations to work together. During our visit, we had the opportunity to visit a number of stations in communities around the Western Cape region, including Zibonele FM and The Voice of the Cape. We heard the term “partnership” and “sister station” during our visit many times, which demonstrated a visible willingness between teams at different organizations to work together and collaborate. I personally believe that this positive attitude for partnership and outreach has been a driving force in the successful collaboration WRHU has enjoyed with Bush Radio.

During our visit, the New York contingent felt this energy and openness, which in turn motivated us to jump into the spirit of the occasion. I personally worked with the Bush station engineering team on some facility maintenance and technical improvements, while other members of the crew lent their wisdom and knowledge to the venture. Laura Schaffer, the General Manager of Salem Media of New York had sent us down with a “broadcasters care package,” comprised of surplus equipment and spare parts from New York. The staff at Bush Radio was happy to receive the gear and began using it almost immediately.

The exchange of knowledge was not limited to technical engineering. WRHU’s John Mullen and Dan Cox ran a workshop on sales, marketing and workflow, while Sturgeon Records owner and engineer Dave Chapman taught the station members multi-track production. WKZE’s Paul Higgins, a world music producer, worked with the station’s air staff on interviewing techniques and even conducted an interview with famed producer Steve Lillywhite on 89.5FM, which was re-broadcast to the USA live. The experience of giving and sharing knowledge was both exciting and rewarding.

However, what we received in return was even more fulfilling. Even though we were strangers from another part of the world, we felt strangely at home at 89.5FM. The folks at Bush Radio were excited to show us their station, city and culture and made sure that we enjoyed a completely immersive experience. We saw all sides of the area, from the sparkling beaches and stunning views of the harbor from the top of Table Mountain to areas that were struggling and people that were fighting to survive. Throughout all of our travels, we noticed one constant: Radio was an integral part of all of the communities that we visited. Part of this can be attributed to a lack of broadband access across the region, but I personally believe a larger factor was based around the spirit of the South African people trusting in and embracing their local radio stations.

Considering this current period of uncertainty and transition in the US, it was refreshing to experience radio being used as a force for community connectivity, outreach and positivity in a far-away part of the world. Our team returned from the trip, refreshed with new ideas on how we could use our experience to grow and improve our own stations. One of these action items has gone into effect almost immediately. Since our return, the 1World Community Show has grown into an open-source network, which includes new domestic and international partners. Stations on the network now include WRCT-Pittsburgh, WCWP-LIU Post, WKZE-Red Hook, KCSS-UC Stanislaus, WVCR-Siena College and Kinvara Community Radio in Ireland, in addition to WRHU and Bush, all eager to share audio content and ideas. I personally hope to see the connection between all of our stations, along with this beautiful collaborative relationship, grow larger and endure way into the future. As one Bush Radio station member told me, “the color of our skin may be different, we may pray to other gods and we are from separate countries and cultures. However, our love for radio is above all that, which makes us all the same.”  Considering the diversity of storytelling that we each do with the power of broadcasting, it’s nice to know that our passion for the craft and industry can unite us and break down barriers. I look forward to our next adventure with the Bush Radio staff. If anyone reading this would like to get involved in radio outreach and establish a similar program or help expand technical support for our new “sister stations,” please feel free to reach out. Your contributions will not be unappreciated. You can find out more about the 1World Community Radio Network at www.1worldcommunityradio.com

Dr. Andrew Gladding his chief engineer at Salem Media Group’s WMCA and WNYM in New York. He can be emailed at andrew.gladding@salemcommunications.com

Industry News

iHeartMedia and Qatar Partner for Regional Podcasting Hub

iHeartMedia announces a multi-year partnership with the Government Communications Office of the State of Qatar to create a thriving podcasting industry in the Middle East and North Africa. iHeartMedia says, “The partnership brings world-class podcasting infrastructure to Qatar and will spark a wave of creative storytelling across the MENA region, leading to the region becoming a global podcasting hub.” iHeartMedia will developimg a state-of-the-art podcast studio in Qatar, accompanied by a lineup of original shows and the introduction of some of the world’s most popular podcasts to Arabic-listening audiences. It will also execute specialized masterclasses to nurture local talent and host global industry events, including Web Summit gatherings, positioning Qatar as a meeting point for the world’s top podcasting voices. iHeartMedia CEO Bob Pittman comments, “Podcasting has exploded in the US and is now a mass-reach medium. And iHeartMedia, with our expansive network as the #1 podcaster in America, is in a unique position to grow strong listenership around the globe. iHeartPodcasts features a massive catalog of original shows spanning every category and this new partnership creates an opportunity to work with a long roster of incredible creators and distribute even more content to new audiences in the Middle East.”

Industry News

Matt Jones Inks New Deal with iHeartMedia Kentucky

Air personality Matt Jones and iHeartMedia sign an exclusive five-year agreement for Jones to continue his current role as host of “Kentucky Sports Radio” on NewsRadio 630 WLAP-AM in Lexington, SportsTalk 790img AM in Louisville and 51 other stations around Kentucky. iHeartMedia Kentucky/Memphis area president Kristy Beebe states, “We are incredibly excited to extend our partnership with Matt Jones and ‘Kentucky Sports Radio.’ Matt’s unique insights and engaging style have made him a beloved figure in the sports community, and we are proud to continue bringing his show to our dedicated audience. This renewal underscores our commitment to delivering top-notch sports content and maintaining our position as the leading audio company in the region.”

Industry News

Broadcasters Foundation Announces Awards Recipients

The Broadcasters Foundation of America announces the recipients of the 2025 Leadership Awards, the Lowry Mays Excellence in Broadcasting Award, and the Chairman’s Award in advance of the BFOA Annual Breakfast set for Wednesday, April 9 in the Encore Resort during the NAB Show in Las Vegas. The 2025img Leadership Award honorees are: Chris Forgy, president & CEO, Saga Communications; David Kantor, former CEO of Urban One’s Radio Division; Curtis LeGeyt, president & CEO, NAB; Susan Larkin, COO, Audacy; Dennis Lyle, president & CEO, Illinois Broadcasters Association; and Valari Staab, chairman, NBC Universal Local. The 2025 Lowry Mays Excellence in Broadcasting Award honoree is Scott Herman, former COO, CBS Radio, and chair, Broadcasters Foundation of America. The2025 Chairman’s Award honoree is Richard Bodorff, senior counsel, Wiley Law.

Industry News

MSG Broadcaster Al Trautwig Dies at 68

The New York Post reports that New York sports broadcaster Al Trautwig died on Sunday (2/23) at his home on Long Island after complications from cancer. The Post notes, “The Long Island native had been a mainstay in New York sports fans’ homes over his decades-long broadcasting career, covering everything from the Yankees to the Knicks and Rangers, as well as the New York City Marathon and the Olympics.” See the Post story here.

Industry News

Dan Bongino Chosen as Deputy FBI Director

President Donald Trump announces that Cumulus Media | Westwood One nationally syndicated talk host Dan Bongino will become the deputy director of the FBI. Prior to his career as a talk media personality, Bongino served as a police officer in New York City and as a Secret Service agent. The Wall Street Journal notes that Bongino becoming the deputy director is the first instance in 117 years that the post will be filledimg by a political appointee instead of a career agent. The role of the deputy director is to oversee the day-to-day operations of the bureau’s law enforcement. The Journal also reports that new FBI director Kash Patel had “offered Republican senators private assurances that he would name a special agent with bureau experience” in order to provide “operational expertise and experience.” The FBI Agents Association has made no public statement so far. Cumulus Media issued the following statement: “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dan Bongino on his decision to take on the role of deputy director of the FBI. Dan has entertained and informed tens of millions of listeners every day and we are grateful for our successful partnership. We look forward to welcoming Dan back in the future. We truly value our audience, advertisers, and affiliates and remain dedicated to bringing them the next exciting chapter for this programming soon. Dan’s last show will be Friday, March 14.”

Industry News

Dr. Asa Featured in Ongoing TNA Wrestling Storyline

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Nationally syndicated talk radio and talk TV star Dr. Asa (Asa Andrew, MD) has been developing a side career in the professional wrestling business in which he plays the roles of a ringside physician. You can see him in this current developing storyline at TNA Wrestling in which he’s confronted by female wrestling star Tessa Blanchard. See the video here.

Industry News

Red Apple Launches “The StoneZONE”

Red Apple Audio Networks and 77WABC Radio are debuting a new evening show starring political strategist Roger Stone titled, The StoneZONE that will air live from 8:00 pm to 9:00 pm ET. Red Apple chief Johnimg Catsimatidis says, “With the addition of The StoneZONE, radio audiences will have Roger’s perspective on news of the day in real-time. Our world is moving quicker than ever before, and listeners want to hear Roger’s insider’s understanding of what’s really going on in politics.” Following each evening’s broadcast, a video version of that StoneZONE will soon be exclusively available on Stone’s StoneZONE Rumble channel. This new show is in addition to the syndicated Sunday “Roger Stone Show” that also airs on WABC.

Industry News

Todd Starnes Show Added in St. Louis Market

The nationally syndicated “Todd Starnes Show” is joining The Real Talk Radio Network has airing daily onimg KRTK, Hermann; KVMO, Vandalia; and KRTE, Steelville in Missouri. For information on carrying Todd’s show, email todd@starnesmediagroup.com.

Industry Views

SABO SEZ: Now, the Advanced Course

By Walter Sabo
CEO Sabo Media Advisors
Walter M. Sterling
Host, “Sterling Every Damn Night,” WPHT Philadelphia
“Sterling On Sunday,” TMN Syndication

imgJim Gearhart is a remarkable on-air talent who was the AM drive host on New Jerey 101.5 for 20-plus years. In the 1960’s he was a star on WCBS-AM and WNEW. The illustration is an ad for his 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm show on WNBC circa 1968.

At first glance the ad presents a normal appeal to listen to Jim. Take another look. The message is: “Listen to Jim, he’s back,

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“AND, you can talk to the biggest stars.”

One-on-one conversation between a listener and a newsmaker was BRAND NEW. All of the WNBC ads at the time stress that listeners could talk directly with celebrities. Listeners had to be “taught” that radio took phone calls!

There are two different types of talk radio cities: legacy cities and expansion cities.

Until the mid-1980s there were approximately 48 full-time talk stations. Their host cities had embraced talk radio since the dawn of radio. Pittsburgh, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Boston, Miami. When satellites made it possible for more cities to have a talk station, expansion talk outlets had a serious challenge. A challenge I witnessed at WHBQ, Memphis.

WHBQ was the first telephone talk station in the hometown of Elvis. It was not doing well despite strong talent, signal and RKO money. Very few calls. Focus group participants revealed the answer: “Oh, I can call in? I thought those were actors.” The people of Memphis had never heard a telephone talk station and therefore didn’t know how it “worked.”

WNBC had the same challenge. It was the first TELEPHONE talk station in New York. Dominant WOR was #1 for decades but never took a listener phone call. The ad for Jim sold the innovation that listeners could talk to the radio.

To evolve the format, collectively we desperately need new programming features. Features as compelling as the power of one listener talking one-on-one to a newsmaker.

Walter Sabo has been a C Suite action partner for companies such as SiriusXM, Hearst, Press Broadcasting, Gannett, RKO General and many other leading media outlets. His company HITVIEWS, in 2007, was the first to identify and monetize video influencers.. His nightly show “Walter Sterling Every Damn Night” is heard on WPHT, Philadelphia. His syndicated show, “Sterling On Sunday,” from Talk Media Network, airs 10:00 pm-1:00 am ET, and is now in its 10th year of success. He can be reached by email at sabowalter@gmail.com

Industry News

KDKA-TV Talk Host Jon Burnett Dies; Donates Brain to Science

KDKA-TV, Pittsburgh talk host and weatherman Jon Burnett died on February 19 at the age of 71. SportSkeeda reports that Burnett died from complications for CTE (Chronic traumatic encephalopathy). He’dimg been diagnosed with suspected CTE two years ago and joined the National Sports Brain Bank at the University of Pittsburgh. He told “Pittsburgh Today Live” at the time, “If I can help anybody on this road, who is on this road or will be on this road in the years ahead, I feel better about being able to do that and being able to learn from my experiences.” Burnett played sports throughout his childhood and played college football at the University of Tennessee. (Photo: KDKA)  Read the SportSkeeda story here.

Industry News

Trump Executive Order Demands Federal Agencies Answer to the President

An executive order signed by President Donald Trump on Tuesday (2/19) titled, “Restoring Democracy and Accountability in Government requires that all federal agencies – those set up by Congress as independent agencies – run all action through the White House before it becomes official. The order implies that the agencies in question – including the Federal Communications Commission – are under the purview of theimg executive branch and must therefore: “(1) submit draft regulations for White House review—with no carve-out for so-called independent agencies, except for the monetary policy functions of the Federal Reserve; and (2) consult with the White House on their priorities and strategic plans, and the White House will set their performance standards. The Office of Management and Budget will adjust so-called independent agencies’ apportionments to ensure tax dollars are spent wisely. The President and the Attorney General (subject to the President’s supervision and control) will interpret the law for the executive branch, instead of having separate agencies adopt conflicting interpretations.” The order also argues that since the president is elected by the people and all agencies are accountable to the American people, therefore the president represents the will of the people. Critics of the move are questioning the constitutionality of the order and some expect this matter will be decided by the courts.

Industry News

Audacy Promotes Jake Vulinec at “92.3 The Fan” in Cleveland

Audacy promotes sports talk personality Jake Vulinec to host of the 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm program “Overtime on The Fan” on WKRK-FM, Cleveland “92.3 The Fan.” Station brand manager Keith Britton comments, “Jake is a rising star in this industry, and we couldn’t be more excited to see him take over ‘Overtime.’ Jake’simg dedication, enthusiasm, and fresh perspective will bring new energy to the show, and we know our audience will love what he brings to the table.” Vulinec joined “92.3 The Fan” in May 2023 as a part-time update anchor and fill-in host. He says, “It’s surreal to me to be starting my career in the place I’ve called home for my entire life. I’m incredibly excited for the opportunity to continue to grow alongside the outstanding team at ‘92.3 The Fan’ and the best fanbase in the world. The city of Cleveland and my fellow fans have given so much to me, and now I hope to be able to give some of that back to them.”

Industry News

NAB’s LeGeyt: Now is a “Challenging Time to Be a Broadcast Journalist”

National Association of Broadcasters president and CEO Curtis LeGeyt spoke at The Media Institute’s 2025 Communications Forum yesterday (2/19) and addressed a number of issues including NAB’s belief that the Federal Communications Commission’s broadcast ownership rules need to be modified. However, he also addressed what he called the “elephant in the room.” “This is a challenging time to be a broadcast journalist.img It’s not easy to report on the deluge of information (and misinformation on social media) that is shaping our world. Especially in cutting through polarized rhetoric to find the truth. And yet, there has never been a more critical time to arm Americans with the facts and let them make their own decisions. To fulfill this mission, our newsrooms must be able to report without fear or favor. This isn’t just a constitutionally protected right – it is fundamental to serving our communities. And it’s a right we’ve had to defend time and time again since our country’s founding. Efforts to limit the ability of broadcasters to report the facts hinders the public’s right to know and chills free speech. Americans deserve the full and fair reporting that broadcasters provide and NAB strongly defends our members’ First Amendment rights and their vital role in maintaining an informed public. Our democracy relies on journalists’ ability to report the news without the risk of government retribution. In a media environment flooded with social media misinformation and cable news politicization, this role has never been more important.”

Industry News

Industry Mourns Death of Radio Legend Gary Stevens (1940 – 2025) at 84

Gary Stevens at WMCA in 1967 (NET photo)
Gary Stevens at WMCA in 1967 (NET photo)

Legendary radio figure, Gary Stevens, passed away on Monday (2/17) in Delray Beach, FL, at the age of 84. Stevens succeeded in a number of phases of the radio business from being a major star DJ on groundbreaking top 40 outlet WMCA, New York in the 60s as one of the iconic “Good Guys” to achieving influence as a radio company manager, program distributor, media investment banker, and station broker (where he profitably rode the consolidation wave). He was known for his innovation in all these fields.  He served as president of Doubleday Broadcasting in the late 70s, investments advisor with Wertheim Schroeder & Co., Inc. in the late 80s and as the head of his own firm, Gary Stevens & Co. in the 90s. During his stellar career, he served on a number of boards at major radio organizations including Saga Communications, where he briefly served as interim chairman upon the death of Ed Christian in 2022, and industry associations including the NAB and RAB.  TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison comments,  “Although Gary Stevens’ accomplishments and influence on the radio industry stretched over more than half a century and was quite profound – kids of my generation, who had the opportunity to grow up in New York during the swingin’ sixties, will always remember him as one of the glorious WMCA Good Guys.  His passing truly marks the end of an era.”

Noted industry historian and video chronicler, Art “Radio’s Best Friend” Vuolo reports to TALKERS, “Gary was the last of the WMCA Good Guys still alive, I took a fantastic B&W film from NYU’s film department that I guess ran on WNET Channel 13 in NY back in 1967 and added titles (a.k.a. supers) so each DJ would be identified and put an opening slate (in color) at the start. Gary Stevens is probably the most prominently featured in this film with some great behind-the-scenes insight as to how top 40 radio was done in America’s top market.  1010 WINS had already bowed out and gone all-news in April of 1965, so it was WMCA and WABC who were dukin’ it out in 1967.  However, in the spring of 1966, WOR-FM was a new tend-setter on FM with rock n’ roll.  Here’s the link (player below) to the amazing film.  Enjoy every second!”

Industry News

Sports Journalist Lesley Visser to be Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award at NYF TV & Film Awards

NY Festival Photo
New York Festivals® Television & Film Awards
  has announced that it will honor pioneering sports journalist and broadcasting groundbreaker Lesley Visser with the New York Festivals 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award. NYF states, “A true innovator in sports journalism, Visser has made history as the first woman to achieve numerous milestones in the industry, earning her place as the most highly acclaimed female sportscaster of all time.”  NY FestThe New York Festivals Lifetime Achievement Award, launched in 2011, honors prominent industry leaders, innovators, and driving forces in the broadcast world whose groundbreaking accomplishments have advanced their field and left a lasting impact on the industry. The award recipient will be celebrated at the annual Storytellers Gala virtual event, which will recognize TV & Film Awards and Radio Awards trophy winners in May 2025.  “I am deeply honored to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from the New York Television and Film Awards,” said Visser, “and I love that it will be presented at the Storytellers Gala. The heart of any sports journalist is dedicated to telling stories. I’m grateful to CBS for giving me this opportunity for more than 30 years, and I salute the men and women who have won this honor before me.”  A nine-time Hall of Fame inductee, Lesley Visser has a long list of “firsts” to her credit. She was the first woman inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the first to win the Lifetime Achievement Sports Emmy, and the first recipient of the Vin Scully Award for Excellence in Broadcasting. Lesley’s memoir, Sometimes You Have to Cross When It Says Don’t Walk, reflects her impressive journey of breaking barriers and has been optioned for both TV and film.  The annual TV & Film Awards Storytellers Gala, featuring winners and industry executives from around the globe, will be streamed in May 2025. View the 2024 Storytellers Gala.  To view entry details, competition rules and regulations, and 2025 categories visit HERE.

 

Industry News

Cumulus/Westwood Studies: Audio Listeners are a Rich Source of In-market Financial Consumers

CumulusSeven consumer studies commissioned by the Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group® over an eight-year period find audio listeners are a rich source of in-market financial consumers and drive significant top and bottom funnel impact. The key findings from the studies are outlined on this week’s blog.

Key takeaways:

• Compared to TV viewers, audio listeners are far more likely own investment assets, to be in the market for financial services, and be interested in the category.
• Despite massive TV spending by financial service marketers, TV viewers exhibit low brand equity for financial service brands and weak interest in the category due to the older skew of TV audiences.
• MRI-Simmons: Heavy podcast and AM/FM radio listeners are the ideal audiences for financial brands as they are more likely to be premium clients willing to pay for financial services.
• Case study #1: MESH Experience: Among consumers with $500K+ of investable assets, heavy AM/FM radio listeners are three times more likely than heavy TV viewers to be in the market for a new or additional financial services company.
• Case study #2: AM/FM radio drives strong growth in top funnel measures such as awareness, favorability, and consideration.
• Case study #3: A MARU/Matchbox study of consumers with $1M+ of investable assets found over a six-month period, an AM/FM radio campaign generated double-digit lifts in most measures of brand equity.
• Case study #4: Heavy AM/FM radio listeners are more likely to be active investors and more engaged with the financial category versus heavy TV viewers.
• Case study #5: Heavy AM/FM radio listeners are +44% more likely to be financial ‘thrivers,’ those who like taking investing risks and agree that investing is important.
• Case study #6: Compared to TV viewers, audio listeners are much more likely to have investments across a broad array of assets classes and more likely to invest in major financial brands.
• Case study #7: Harris Poll Brand Tracker: A Westwood One NFL AM/FM radio campaign generates significant brand equity impact far stronger than among TV viewers.

Check out today’s blog post.

View a 15-minute video of the key findings here.

Industry News

WURD, Philadelphia to Honor Malcolm X

WURDOn Friday, Feb. 21, WURD Radio will present “Race, Manhood and Power: Commemorating 60 Years Since the Ascension of Malcolm X to Ancestorhood” in partnership with the Community College of Philadelphia from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm at CCP’s Winnet Student Life Building Lobby.  This live broadcast will be a special edition of “Groundings” with WURD host Brother Shomari. The event and conversation will reflect on the lessons of Malcolm X’s legacy and examine how succeeding generations have – or have not – put them into action. The broadcast is part of a week of programming at CCP led by Brother Shomari that addresses what the station describes as the “urgent challenges” facing Philadelphia’s Black communities today.

“This convening will serve as a re-catalyzation of our previous mobilization efforts, focused on African Diasporic community building in and around the Philadelphia region, and the important leadership linkages that must be facilitated between our culture, communities and campuses to advance Black life and wellbeing,” Brother Shomari said. “A particular lens of this convening is on the purpose, roles, responsibilities and preparation of Black youth and young adults for this cause.”

According to the station, this gathering is a sequel to WURD Radio’s historic 2015 event, “The Invitation,” which explored the impact of racial shifts in Philadelphia and the critical need for stronger Black leadership. “Race, Manhood and Power” will continue that discussion, focusing on intergenerational strategies for building Black community power.

 

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Cliché Alert

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

Delete this phrase from commercial copy you craft for local advertisers: “In these uncertain times…”

im

For two reasons. First, many people are optimistic now. Second, those who are suffering get it. Rubbing their nose in it just piles-on; and clichés risk blending-into the blah-blah-blah.

Instead, simply delete the sentence. Give copy room to breathe, to avoid radio’s commercial motormouth caricature.

That next sentence probably includes The Magic Words: “YOU” and/or “YOUR.” If it doesn’t, change that too.

For more click here.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke and connect on LinkedIn

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Hannity Trump and Musk

HANNITY TO AIR TRUMP MUSK INTERVIEW TONIGHT:  Continuing his longtime role as one of the nation’s talk media hosts most-closely-connected to Donald Trump, Sean Hannity’s recently recorded sit-down interview with both President Trump and DOGE head Elon Musk will air on the FOX News Channel’s “Hannity” program this evening (2/18) at 9:00 pm ET. Hannity is also syndicated daily on Premiere Networks and currently holds the number one spot on the TALKERS 2024 “Heavy Hundred.”  To see a preview clip of tonight’s interview, please click here.     Nebraska Broadcasters…..FIVE TO BE INDUCTED: The Nebraska Broadcasters Association will induct Dennis & Kathi Brown, Dale Johnson, Mike McKnight and Dave Wingert into the NBA Hall of Fame on August 12th in La Vista during the NBA Annual Convention. Established in 1972, the NBA Hall of Fame will grow to 123 members with these pending inductees…..Independent Broadcasters AssociationIBA AND RVA TO HOST LIVE VIDEO STREAMING WEBINAR: The Radio Vendor Alliance (RVA) is producing another “Lunch and Learn” workshop in partnership with the Independent Broadcasters Association (IBA). The workshops are free online sessions and feature industry experts with practical solutions to radio’s most pressing problems.  “Is Video the New Audio?” is scheduled for Thursday, February 20, at 1:00 pm ET.Radio Vendor Alliance The 45-minute session will include a Q&A and will be available for replay to all registrants. Registration is free (link: https://www.coolradiostreaming.com/) and IBA membership is not required.