Industry News

Brian Lehrer Show Announces Candidate Forum Programs

WNYC, New York’s “The Brian Lehrer Show” plans to host a series of forums with the candidates in four competitive New York Democratic primary elections this spring. In addition to these forums, WNYC and NY1 will co-host a debate with the candidates imgin the NY-12 Democratic primary race to replace US Representative Jerry Nadler on Tuesday, June 9 at 7:00 pm. Participating candidates will be state assemblymember Alex Bores; lawyer and activist George Conway; state assemblymember Micah Lasher; political commentator Jack Schlossberg; and scientist Nina Schwalbe. The debate will be hosted by NY1’s longtime host Errol Lewis, WNYC’s Brian Lehrer, and WNYC/Gothamist senior politics reporter Brigid Bergin.

Industry News

Salem Media Adds to Religious Content

Salem Media is expanding its faith-based original content with the addition of “Your Nightly Scripture” to LifeAudio’s growing lineup. Produced natively for LifeAudio, Salem says the podcast reflects the network’s continued investment in original Christian content imgdesigned to meet listeners throughout their daily lives. Salem SVP David Bingham comments, “As we’ve seen strong engagement with ‘Your Nightly Prayer,’ we recognized a natural opportunity to serve our audience even more deeply. ‘Your Nightly Scripture’ is the perfect companion for listeners who want to end their day not only in prayer but grounded in God’s Word. At night, when many people are still carrying the stress and noise of the day, Scripture has a unique way of bringing peace, calm, and renewed perspective.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (5/26)

The most discussed stories yesterday (5/26) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. Iran War / Self-Defense Strikes
  2. Redistricting Cases
  3. Paxton Beats Cornyn
  4. Pope Leo’s AI Encyclical
  5. Ballroom Project
Industry News

Joe Pags to Deliver Wrap Up Address at TALKERS Conference

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Nationally syndicated news/talk radio star Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo – whose national Compass Media Networks program (“The Joe Pags Show”) originates 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm ET daily from its flagship KTSA, San Antonio – will play a multi-faceted role at TALKERS 2026: Radio’s Next Chapter. In addition to reprising his memorable performance of the National Anthem on the saxophone and participating on the panel, “Gaining Traction in a Noisy Digital World,” Pags will deliver the conference’s closing address titled, “Be Ready When You Get That Call.”  The speech will be delivered at the event’s closing reception and wrap up the conference on what organizer Michael Harrison describes as “a positive note.”  Harrison says, “Joe Pags is an inspirational combination of superb talent and entrepreneurial energy – just what’s needed to make it during these challenging times.” Pags is a top 10 inductee in the TALKERS Heavy Hundred.  To see the latest conference registration, hotel and sponsorship information, please click here

Industry News

Audacy Expands Relationship with ABC News Audio

With the end of CBS News Radio on Friday (5/22), Audacy announces that it is expanding its relationship with ABC News Audio to use the service across many of its all-news and news/talk imgstations. Audacy says, “The move ensures listeners continue receiving trusted national and international reporting from ABC News Audio, while Audacy stations remain focused on delivering live, local journalism in the communities they serve. Existing ABC News Audio affiliates, including 1010 WINS in New York and KYW Newsradio in Philadelphia, will continue their longstanding relationships as part of the expanded collaboration.”

Industry News

Margie Tasseff Retires from iHeartMedia Mansfield and Marion

Longtime market president Margie Tasseff announces her retirement from iHeartMedia’s Mansfield and Marion, Ohio markets where she led news/talk WMAN-AM and sports talk WNCO “FOX Sports 1340” in Mansfield and news/talk WMRN in Marion plus six imgmusic brands. iHeartMedia area president Matt Bell says, “Margie’s passion for this business, her commitment to the Mansfield and Marion communities and the relationships she built over nearly four decades have left an incredible mark on our company and everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her. She has been a trusted leader, mentor and advocate for both our employees and our partners, and her presence will truly be missed. We are deeply grateful for everything she has contributed to iHeartMedia and wish her nothing but happiness and success in this next chapter.” Reflecting on her career, Tasseff comments, “Spending 39 years with one employer is truly uncommon. I’m deeply proud of what we’ve built together over the years — from the friendships and partnerships to the impact we’ve made through local radio. I’ve been fortunate to grow professionally while working with outstanding colleagues and serving a community that has meant so much to me. These stations will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Industry News

Widmann Named EVP at RAB

RAB appoints Sabina Widmann executive vice president in which she’ll oversee member engagement and success with a focus on broadcaster initiatives, enhancing member services and expanding overall offerings as RAB continues aligning its resources to support the evolving needs of the radio industry. RAB president and CEO imgMike Hulvey says, “Sabina’s leadership experience, industry knowledge and understanding of broadcasters and the local communities which they serve make her an outstanding addition to the RAB team. Her passion for helping media organizations grow and evolve will further strengthen the support, education and resources RAB provides to its members.” Widmann comments, “I’m excited to join RAB during such an important time for the industry. Radio and audio continue to play a vital role for our communities and advertisers. I look forward to working with RAB’s members and team to help provide meaningful resources, education and support that help broadcasters navigate continued change and growth.”

Industry News

Seaboard Networks to Distribute “The Unscaled Travel Radio Show”

Seaboard Networks announces that it is the new distributor and syndicator of the weekly travel program, “The Unscaled Travel Radio Show.” The KOWS-FM, Santa Rosa, California-based program is hosted by husband-and-wife team Jeremy and Amy Long. It is currently also heard on digital stations throughout the United States, Australia, United Kingdom, New Zealand and beyond. Seaboard marketing solutions consultant Bob Stei says, “I was hooked the moment Jeremy and I first started talking about travel. Travel is a topic people are extremely passionate about. This will go well with our growing portfolio of lifestyles shows which include a wrestling show and program about pets.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend (May 23-25)

The most discussed stories over the Memorial Day weekend (5/23-25) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. Iran War Peace Talks / New U.S. Strikes
  2. Secret Service Kill White House Shooter
  3. Texas Republican Runoff
  4. Russia Announces Attacks on Kyiv
  5. Ebola Outbreak
Industry News

NAB Statement on Inclusion of the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act in House Surface Transportation Package

The House Committee on Energy and Commerce has included the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act in a larger transportation bill, moving it closer to becoming law. NAB president Curtis LeGeyt says, “NAB applauds the House Committee on Energy and Commerce for including the AM imgRadio for Every Vehicle Act in its surface transportation reauthorization package. We thank Chairmen Brett Guthrie and Gus Bilirakis and Ranking Member Frank Pallone for their continued leadership on this critical issue and for creating another path to pass this overwhelmingly bipartisan legislation. As lawmakers consider policies affecting America’s transportation infrastructure, ensuring continued access to AM radio in vehicles remains essential for public safety. Leaders on both sides of the aisle recognize AM radio’s unique and indispensable role in keeping Americans informed, especially in times of emergency. We appreciate the support of the Act’s nearly 380 House and Senate cosponsors and urge Congress to take swift action to advance this legislation into law.”

Industry News

“American Ground Radio” Launches on Salem’s WWRC, Washington

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The morning radio program “American Ground Radio” is airing on Salem Media’s news/talk WWRC-AM, Washington “AM 570 The Answer” at 7:00 am. The program is hosted by Stephen Parr and Louis R. Avallone. About the show, Salem says, “Known for their conversational style and sharp perspective, Parr and Avallone have built a growing national audience by creating a bridge between traditional American values and today’s biggest issues. Each episode features special guests, listener call-ins, and thoughtful discussion on the stories shaping the country.” WWRC general manager David Howard adds, “We’re thrilled to bring American Ground Radio to the heart of our nation’s capital. Stephen and Louis create a space where listeners can engage, be inspired, and find common ground.” Pictured above are Parr (left), and Avallone (center) interviewing House Speaker Mike Johnson (right).

Industry News

New York Festivals Radio Awards Announce Winners

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New York Festivals Storytellers Gala announces the 2026 Radio Awards winners and American media companies taking home trophies include ESPN, NPR, Alabama Media Group, WBEZ, SiriusXM, Bloomberg, iHeartMedia and CBS News. NYF says, “Engaging storytelling and audio innovation took center stage at the 2026 Storytellers Gala virtual event, celebrating the achievements of global creators in radio and podcasting. Innovative audio storytelling from creators across six continents was evaluated by the New York Festivals 2026 Radio Awards Grand Jury. This year’s winners reflect the impressive range of the medium, spanning audiobooks, podcasts, drama, documentaries, breaking news, entertainment, and music, and showcasing work from global networks, production companies, and independent storytellers.” For the second consecutive year, CBC/Radio-Canada was named New York Festivals Radio Awards Broadcaster of the Year. See all the winners here.

Industry News

MAB Names WJR, Detroit Commercial Station of the Year

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Cumulus Media’s news/talk WJR, Detroit is named Commercial Station of the Year by the Michigan Association of Broadcasters, marking the 9th consecutive year that 760 WJR has taken Station of the Year honors. The station has been honored as the top commercial station in Michigan for 28 of the last 32 years. Additionally, WJR received 11 MAB Broadcast Excellence “Best” Awards and 10 “Merit” Awards. Cumulus RVP and market manager Steve Finateri comments, “What an honor to be recognized by MAB as we continue to raise the bar for providing the highest quality news, information, and insights for our listeners and community. Congratulations to WJR program director Ann Thomas and the extraordinary WJR team, who have earned our listeners’ trust for many years and continue to build on that every day. A special thanks to the MAB and our listeners and partners for their ongoing support.” Pictured above is the WJR staff at the recent awards ceremony.

Industry News

Premiere Networks and FOX Sports Radio Celebrate Gracie Winners

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Earlier this week, the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation’s 51st Annual Gracie Awards annual gala took place at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles. Winners included FOX Sports Radio’s Carmen Vitali and former co-host Alex Curry, were honored in the Weekend Host/Personality category for their “FOX Sports Saturday” show. Pictured here are Curry and FOX EVP Scott Shapiro.

Industry News

Rao Named WNYC / Gothamist Culture Reporter

imgPublic media firm WNYC in New York names Sonia Rao the culture reporter joining the WNYC / Gothamist newsroom. Rao will cover the arts, with a specialty in film, television, and food. She has covered arts and culture for a decade, most recently as a features reporter and critic at The Washington Post.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (May 18-22)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (5/18-22) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

Stories

  1. Trump’s Primary Victories
  2. Iran War / War Powers Vote
  3. Gas-Food Prices
  4. “Anti-Weaponization” Fund / Trump Immunity
  5. U.S.-Cuba Tensions / Ebola Outbreak
  6. DNC 2024 “Autopsy”
  7. Xi-Putin Meeting / U.S.-Taiwan Relations
  8. Deadly Mosque Shooting / Rededicate 250 Prayer Rally
  9. End of Colbert Show / Springsteen vs Trump
  10. Kyle Busch Dies

People

  1. Donald Trump
  2. Thomas Massie
  3. JD Vance / Pete Hegseth
  4. Todd Blanche
  5. Joe Biden / Kamala Harris
  6. Raul Castro
  7. Xi Jinping / Vladimir Putin
  8. Lai Ching-te
  9. Stephen Colbert / Bruce Springsteen
  10. Kyle Busch

To see the full TALKERS Stories, Topics, and People Charts, please click HERE.

Industry Views

Pakman Suggests YouTube Systems are Reducing Exposure for Left-Leaning Indie Channels

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David Pakman, a major online liberal political commentator, is publicly alleging that YouTube’s recommendation and distribution systems are dramatically reducing exposure for left-leaning independent media channels, creating what he describes as an “existential crisis” for progressive political creators on the platform.

In a recent video, Pakman said that since early April, “YouTube has dramatically reduced performance for the vast majority of left-leaning independent media shows,” while asserting that right-leaning content does not appear to be experiencing the same decline.

Pakman framed the issue primarily through platform analytics rather than overt accusations of intentional censorship. He pointed to a sharp decline in impressions – the number of times YouTube displays a video thumbnail to users – while claiming audience engagement metrics remain largely stable.

“We were getting 15 million impressions a day,” Pakman said, explaining that the figure later dropped to approximately 10 million despite what he described as an unchanged audience response rate. “The click-through rate is still close to 8%. But impressions go from 15 million down to 10 million.”

Pakman argued that the consistency of click-through rates undermines the idea that audiences have simply lost interest in progressive political content. “It appears that people are just as interested in hearing from the left on YouTube right now, but they are not being shown the videos,” he said.

He also cited viewer feedback as evidence that something unusual may be occurring within YouTube’s recommendation ecosystem. According to Pakman, subscribers have repeatedly reported needing to manually search for his content despite being subscribed and having notifications enabled.

“You were being suppressed in distribution,” Pakman quoted one viewer as saying. Another viewer reportedly wrote: “I’m not seeing your new videos, and I’ve been subscribed for years.”

Pakman stopped short of alleging direct political targeting by YouTube employees or executives. “I am not arguing that someone at YouTube has flipped a switch and is deliberately suppressing left-wing channels,” he said. Instead, he suggested the platform’s recommendation systems may be reacting to engagement patterns or retention metrics in ways that inadvertently disadvantage certain political content.

At the same time, Pakman said performance on other digital platforms remains strong, including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, and podcast distribution channels. “Every single other platform is doing fine,” he said. “It’s only YouTube.”

The comments add to a broader ongoing debate among digital creators regarding algorithmic visibility, platform transparency, and the growing dependence of independent media companies on recommendation systems they neither control nor fully understand.

Pakman urged viewers to subscribe directly, enable “all notifications,” and join his Substack mailing list in an effort to reduce reliance on platform algorithms. “We don’t want to rely on AI for recommendations,” he said. “We have to go back to telling the platforms what we want.”

To view David Pakman’s recent video in which he discusses this issue in full detail, please click here.

Industry Views

The Case for Radio “Trading” Shows

By Charles Heller
Host
“Swap Shop Radio”
“Liberty Watch Radio”
KVOI – AM 1030, Tucson

imgAdam Smith‘s “invisible hand” is a metaphor he used to describe how individuals pursuing their own self-interest in competitive markets can unintentionally produce socially beneficial outcomes – such as efficient allocation of resources and increased wealth. Smith uses the phrase in The Theory of Moral Sentiments in 1759 and more famously in The Wealth of Nations in1776.

Radio’s ability to connect to a phone line to air has evolved since its inception in World War II. Barry Gray is widely credited for being an establishing influence for the talk show format (although it is difficult to truly identify “firsts” in radio). As the story goes, initially a disc jockey, Gray was working for New York City radio station WOR in 1945 when bandleader Woody Herman called in while Gray was talking about him. Gray shared his end of the call with the audience, and the spontaneous live narrative was a hit with both his listeners and station managers. This led to the invention of the “delay” unit and contributed to the practice of connecting live listeners to the air.

Since the 1950s, programs all across the country began to arise that offered people the ability to buy and sell their own goods over the radio, starting first in rural markets. One of the longest running of them started in 1950 on WLIL in Tennessee and runs daily from 9:00 to 10:30 am. I have heard programs like it in my travels across the country from Sycamore, IL to Baltimore, MD, which have a Sunday morning trading program. Today, most markets have one form or another of those shows, either on a daily basis in smaller markets, or in some cases, covering large market areas. I heard one in Bentonville, AR station that took calls from Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Kansas while I was listening.

These programs enhance people’s ability to live their lives more easily, by offering a format for buying, selling, and trading goods in the free market. Those programs also use the influence of radio to form all important communities of interest that are part of the glue that keeps a free republic together, as the great Tucson Broadcaster John C. Scott said, “over this back yard fence.”

This month marks the start of my 28th year of broadcasting “The Swap Shop” on AM 1030 KVOI. In 27 years, the program has only missed two weeks of broadcast. It has become what the great Dave Sitton of ESPN and FOX used to call “appointment radio” for a lot of folks in the Tucson market. I have listeners in Maine that call in for non-rusted auto parts, and a loyal listener in Traverse City, MI and a submarine hunter in the Navy in Norfolk, VA.

I call Swap Shop, “The unregulated free market, governed only by common courtesy and common sense, where you are free to buy, sell or trade anything lawful and moral.” All of these shows do a lot more for people besides the enabling of the free market. My favorites have been a lady who called in when her parakeet got out, and a fellow who called 45 minutes later from his garage sale where the parakeet flew in. They both just happened to be listeners. Another favorite was an older lady whose husky had gotten out during a thunderstorm. She called in tears. The animal control officer who had the dog in her truck heard it and called her, returning her dog.

My point is that as broadcasters, we are all stewards of that “unseen hand” of the free market, either by enabling the free trade in goods between private parties or enabling our advertisers to become known and trusted by their communities. If you run a Swap Shop type program, or know of one in other markets, I’d like to hear from you. Let’s develop an informal network of us around the country.

Charles Heller hosts “Swap Shop Radio” and “Liberty Watch Radio” 0n AM 1030 KVOI, Tucson.  He can be reached via email at charles@libertywatchradio.com.

Industry News

“The Breakfast Club” to Stream Daily on Netflix

iHeartMedia strikes a deal with streaming giant Netflix to stream the nationally syndicated urban morning show “The Breakfast Club” – the first such move for Netflix. The announcement reveals that the program co-hosted by Charlamagne tha God, will air simultaneously as a live video show on Netflix each weekday. While the radio broadcast will continue to include traditional commercial breaks, Netflix viewers will receive “an enhanced, uninterrupted experience, imgwith those breaks filled by exclusive bonus segments, behind‑the‑scenes moments, extended discussions and original content – resulting in nearly three continuous hours of programming each day.” iHeartMedia chairman Bob Pittman comments, “The Breakfast Club has always been at the center of culture, breaking artists, shaping conversations, and reflecting real life in real time. Taking this show live every day to a global audience on Netflix is a powerful example of how we’re expanding the reach of our biggest brands while giving audiences entirely new ways to experience them. Whether it’s morning in NYC or the afternoon in London, the conversation is live and reaching the world in real time.”

Industry News

Salem Media Partnership Produces New Film

Salem Media’s strategic partnership with Compel Studios results in a new documentary film, By Dawn’s Early Light. Salem says, “The film explores the enduring principles of faith, liberty, and the American spirit through compelling storytelling, historical reflection, and cultural commentary. imgThrough the partnership, Salem Media and Compel Studios will bring the film to audiences nationwide through streaming platforms, churches, and Salem’s extensive multimedia network.” SalemNOW general manager Rob Ellis adds, “By Dawn’s Early Light is exactly the kind of meaningful and culturally relevant storytelling that resonates deeply with our audience. We’re excited to partner with Compel Studios to help expand the film’s reach and bring its message to viewers across the country.”

Industry News

WOLB, Baltimore’s Larry Young Appears with MD Governor at Community Town Hall

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Longtime WOLB, Baltimore personality Larry Young (l) is pictured with Maryland’s Governor Wes Moore (r) at a Town Hall-style meeting Tuesday evening (5/19) at which the state’s first Black chief executive, a Democrat, delivered his assessment of the 2026 Maryland General Assembly session. Young, a former recipient of the TALKERS “Humanitarian of the Year” award, is legendary for his decades of community service throughout Baltimore and Maryland.

Industry News

“98.5 The Sports Hub” Holding 15th Annual Charity Golf Tournament

Beasley Media Group’s sports talk WBZ-FM, “98.5 The Sports Hub” is hosting the 15th Annual “Who’s Your Caddy” Golf Classic on Monday, June 8, at Brookmeadow Country Club that will, with a major assist from the Boston Bruins Foundation, raise funds to benefit Special Olympics Massachusetts. This year’s event will feature a new fan-imgfocused opportunity called, “We Need A 4th,” giving listeners the chance to bid online for the opportunity to join either the Fred Toucher, Rob ‘Hardy’ Poole & Jon Wallach foursome or the Tony Massarotti, Mike Felger & Jim Murray foursome. The highest bidder for each group will earn a coveted spot as the fourth player. Massarotti states, “We launched this event 15 years ago with the goal of combining our passion for sports, entertainment, and giving back. To see how much this tournament has grown over the years – and the incredible support from listeners, sponsors, and local organizations – has been truly rewarding. We’re excited to make this year’s event another memorable day for a great cause.” Since its launch in 2011, the “Who’s Your Caddy” Golf Classic has raised more than $300,000 for charities including Boston Children’s Hospital Pediatric Care Unit, Jaylen Brown’s 7uice Foundation, and now Special Olympics Massachusetts.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Assistant Production Manager in Seattle

Lotus Seattle is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Assistant Production Manager to support the daily operations of the Production Department within a fast-paced broadcast radio environment. This role assists with the coordination, scheduling, creation, and delivery of commercial imgproduction, station imaging, promotional audio, and other broadcast content across multiple stations and digital platforms. The Assistant Production Manager works closely with Programming, Sales, Traffic, Promotions, and On-Air staff to ensure all production elements are completed accurately, creatively, and on schedule while maintaining Lotus Seattle Corp. quality standards and FCC compliance requirements. This position requires strong audio production skills, creativity, technical proficiency, and the ability to effectively manage multiple deadlines in a dynamic broadcasting environment. See more and apply here.

Industry News

Heritage Band Gunhill Road Cracks a Million Listens/Views Fueled by Talk Radio Exposure

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Talk radio-fueled music group Gunhill Road has surpassed one million listens and views on a variety of online platforms including YouTube. The four-member ensemble, consisting of Steve GoldrichPaul ReischBrian Koonin, and (TALKERS founder) Michael Harrison, has found a new worldwide online audience fueled largely by interviews and airplay on news/talk radio, specifically over the past six years. The group is known for its provocative lyrics and subject matter (which makes it popular with talk show hosts), along with eye-catching videos (produced by Matthew B. Harrison) and an array of superbly played musical styles. Gunhill Road has been writing and recording a wide variety of songs contained in four albums since the late-sixties, including the 1973 top 40 hit single, “Back When My Hair Was Short.” The group’s colorful history was the subject of a 2017 feature film documentary titled, “Every 40 Years.” They will be releasing their long-awaited fifth album in late June.

​Formed in Mount Vernon, New York by Steve Goldrich and Glenn Leopold in the late-sixties and named after an iconic thoroughfare in the Bronx, Gunhill Road has grown through several musical and personnel chapters for more than a half century. In its current incarnation, Gunhill Road addresses such compelling themes as politics, technology, relationships, aging, animal welfare, modern anxiety, the First Amendment and other issues that are aligned with the topics discussed on talk radio.

​Gunhill Road’s internet hits include:

“Idiots” click here

“AI (No Robots Were Injured in the Recording of this Song)” click here

“Close My Ears” click here

“Damn Scammers” click here

“Don’t Stop Talking” click here

“I Know You’re Real” click here

For more information about Gunhill Road call Barbara Kurland at TALKERS: 413-565-5413

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (5/20)

The most discussed stories yesterday (5/20) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. Primary Results
  2. Iran War
  3. “Antiweaponization” Fund / Trump Immunity
  4. Gas-Food Prices
  5. U.S.-Cuba Tensions