Industry News

KXEL, Waterloo Broadcasts from “Iowa’s Roast and Ride”

im

Pictured above is KXEL, Waterloo, Iowa program director and program host Jeff Stein (left) interviewing Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds (right) at the annual summertime “Iowa’s Roast and Ride” charity event at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines. The 90-minute live broadcast  on the NRG Media news/talk station’s “Iowa Talking Points” was simulcast on a live video stream by Mudd Advertising and its Studio5@Mudd remote production team. The broadcast served as the “pregame show” before the luncheon event, which boasted 1,000 attendees. Spearheaded by U.S. Senator Joni Ernst, the event is sponsored by Mission Iowa, a non-profit organization. It begins with a motorcycle fundraiser ride to the fairgrounds and culminates with a barbeque luncheon and speeches. This year’s event raised $10,000.00 for the Iowa Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation.

Industry News

WGN, Chicago Adds Frank Morano for Overnights

The Red Apple Audio Network syndicated program “The Other Side of Midnight with Frank Morano” isim added to the program schedule at Nexstar Media’s WGN, Chicago beginning Monday (7/15). WGN Radio VP and general manager Mary Sandberg Boyle says, “‘The Other Side of Midnight with Frank Morano’ is engaging, creative, and lively – a trifecta not often found in late night radio shows.”

Industry News

WRHU GM John Mullen is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast

John Mullen is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Mullen is tremendously accomplished and respected in college and university radio broadcasting holding the position of general manager at one of the most celebrated and prestigious campus stations in America – WRHU-FM and WRHU.org at Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY. WRHU has been honored with multiple NAB Marconi Awards – some in categories usually reserved for professional, commercial outlets. The high-profile station also has an impressive track record of working with New York City commercial radio in the production of major league PBP sports programming and then some. Some of the nation’s leading broadcasters – including legends – have come up through Hofstra’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication. TALKERS has partnered with WRHU for five recent installments of its 27-year run of annual national talk media industry conferences. Harrison states, “Obviously, I know our guest very well. I am proud to call him a friend and a colleague. He is a man who left a successful career in New York City radio programming and management years back to become a master educator in the field of radio and play a role, year after year, in the training and inspiring of young, fresh careers in the business of communications. He is one of the industry’s most astute experts and a man very closely in touch with the feelings and culture of the next generation of radio and television broadcasters. What he says in this interview contains important insights into the state and future of radio.” To listen to the podcast in its entirety, click here

Industry News

Stefan Jones Promoted to President of USRN

Gemini XIII announces that Stefan Jones is promoted to president of United Stations Radio Networks. Gemini XIII CEO Spencer Brown states, “We are incredibly excited to elevate Stefan Jones to this position.im His expertise, passion, and approach align perfectly with our mission to deliver exceptional audio content and services.” In his new role, Jones will oversee all aspects of USRN’s operations, including programming, services, affiliate relations, and affiliate sales. He will continue to work closely with the talented team at USRN and parent company Gemini XIII to develop innovative strategies that enhance the network’s offerings and drive value for its affiliates and partners.

Industry News

SiriusXM Shows to Broadcast from the RNC

SiriusXM announces that a number of its political talk shows will broadcast live from Milwaukee during nextim week’s Republican National Convention. “The Megyn Kelly Show” will broadcast live from the pavilion at the Fiserv Forum on both Wednesday and Thursday. Julie Mason will host her POTUS show each day from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm and will then kick off the channel’s special nighttime coverage starting on Monday at 8:00 pm ET. And David Webb will also host his Patriot channel program, “The David Webb Show,” in late mornings in addition to joining Patriot’s primetime programming starting Monday at 9:00 pm ET.

Industry News

Audacy Elevates Jeff Miller in Cleveland

Audacy names Jeff Miller SVP, market manager and director of sales for the Cleveland operations that includes sports talk WKRK-FM “92.3 The Fan” and four music brands.  Audacy regional president Markim Hannon says, “Jeff has been one of our key sales management leaders for nearly three decades, leading robust sales teams and managing salespeople of all experience levels. He has also been an integral player in making ‘92.3 The Fan’ one of the market’s dominant revenue leaders while managing the relationship with our key partner, the Cleveland Browns. I know that Jeff will advance the legacy of Tom Herschel as Audacy Cleveland’s new leader, and I look forward to working with him to set the path forward.” Miller comments, “I am humbled, motivated and very excited to accept this fantastic opportunity to lead Audacy Cleveland. I look forward to working with our team and the entire organization to build on the success we experienced under Tom Herschel’s guidance.”

Industry News

“101.7 The Truth” to Hold “Walk Against Violence”

Good Karma Brands’ urban talk WGKB-AM/W269DL, Milwaukee “101.7 The Truth” is presenting the Toryim Lowe Walk Against Violence on July 20. Hosted by afternoon talk host Tory Lowe, the two-mile walk provides “an opportunity to come together and make a strong statement against violence, striving towards creating a safer and more harmonious community.” Lowe comments, “We cannot tolerate people who exemplify dangerous and unlawful behaviors that cause harm to innocent men, women, and children. The Walk Against Violence symbolizes strength and encouragement to those who are willing to act against the recklessness and negativity harming our communities.”

Industry News

Joe Kelley Joins KRLD, Dallas; Mike Rogers Moves to Middays

Audacy announces lineup changes at all-news KRLD-AM, Dallas “NewsRadio 1080.” After serving for 19 years with Cox Media Group, most recently as host of the morning program on WDBO, Orlando, Joe Kelleyim is named the new host of “The KRLD Morning News.” Incumbent morning host Mike Rogers moves to the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon daypart. Both moves take effect on July 22. Audacy news & talk format VP and KRLD brand manager Drew Anderssen imsays, “We’re proud to unveil the next phase of KRLD’s new-look lineup by adding Joe Kelley and moving local favorite Mike Rogers to middays. Mike has resonated with our listeners for over three decades, and we have no doubt he will continue to provide informative, relevant content to them in middays. We’re equally excited to welcome Joe Kelley, who, with his rich background in news and multi-platform content distribution, will bring a wealth of experience and passion to our morning news.” Kelley comments, “I am honored to join the esteemed KRLD brand and embrace the responsibility of upholding the legacy crafted by generations of broadcasters. Returning to Texas – a place that resonates with familiarity and warmth – fills me with great enthusiasm. I look forward to further elevating KRLD’s prominence in the North Texas community.”

Ratings Takeaways

June 2024 PPM Ratings – Part One

imJune 2024 PPM Data – Information for Nielsen Audio’s June 2024 ratings period (May 23 – June 19) has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey).

No share or rank thresholds are required for spoken-word stations to be included here.

DNA – DNA = Did Not Appear – Does Not Appear

Comparisons are May 2024 – June 2024  (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk

WABC 3.3 – 3.3, #10 – #11

WOR 1.5 – 1.5, #19 – #20

WKXW 1.0 – .9, #23 – #22

WKXW Stream .2 – .3, #39 – #36

WLIR .1 – .1, #45 – #43

News

WINS-FM 4.3 – 4.2, #5 – #7

WCBS-AM 1.5 – 1.5, #19 – #20 (Mets)

Business News WBBR .4 – .4, #34 – #33

WINS-FM Stream .3 – .4, #37 – #33

WCBS-AM Stream .2 – .2, #39 – #37 (Mets)

WWRL & WWPR-HD3 Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WFAN FM & AM 2.4 – 2.3, #13 -#13 (Yankees)

WFAN FM & AM Stream .8 – .6, #26 -#27 (Yankees)

Public Radio News/Talk

WNYC-FM 3.3 – 3.7, #10 – #9

WNYC-AM .9 – .7, #24 – #26

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk

KFI 4.0 – 3.7, #7 – #7

KRLA .8 – .7, #33 – #33

KEIB .6 – .5, #34 – #34    

News

KNX-FM 3.3 – 3.1, #10 – #11

KNX-FM Stream .2 – .3, #38 – #37

KRRL-HD2 Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

Sports Talk

KLAC 1.5 – 1.5, #26 – #27 (Dodgers 

Public Radio News/Talk

KPCC 1.8 – 1.6, #22 – #26

Note: The Angels’ flagships are sports talk KLAA (DNA) and sports talk KSPN (DNA).

CHICAGO

News/Talk

WGN 3.0 – 2.5, #12 – #15

WLS-AM .9 – 1.1, #26 – #25

WVON .2 – .2, #36 – #37

WLS-AM Stream .1 – .1, #41 – #41

WLIP DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

WBBM-AM & WCFS 5.2 – 5.4, #4  – #4

WBBM-AM & WCFS Stream .1 – .1, #41 – #41

WVAZ-HD2 Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WSCR 3.2 – 2.7, #10 – #13 (Cubs)

WSCR Stream .2 – .3, #36 – #33 (Cubs)

WSHE-HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA  

Public Radio News/Talk

WBEZ 1.6 – 1.7, #21 – #22  

Note: The White Sox flagship is sports talk WMVP (DNA).

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk

KSFO 1.4 – 1.0, #22 – #23

KSFO Stream .1 – DNA, #38 – DNA 

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 5.7 – 5.4, #3 – #3

KNEW .2 – .2, #32 – #30 (Oakland A’s)  

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream DNA – .1, DNA – #35

KKSF Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

Sports Talk

KNBR 4.2 – 4.5, #6 – #5 (Giants)

KGMZ 1.7 – 1.5, #20 – #21

KNBR Stream .4 – .3, #28 – #28 (Giants)

KGO .1 – .1, #38 – #35  

KTCT .1 – .1, #38 – #35  

KGO Stream .2 – DNA, #32 – DNA  

KGMZ Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA     

Public Radio News/Talk

KQED 5.9 – 7.1, #2 – #2

KALW .3 – .3, #31 – #28

Note: Public radio news/talk KQED’s +1.2 (5.9 – 7.1) represents San Francisco’s largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 increase.

DALLAS

News/Talk

WBAP 2.6 – 3.0, #15 – #12

KSKY .6 – .7, #34 – #33

KLIF-AM .4 – .4, #36 – #35

KFXR-AM .1 – .1, #43 – #38

KSKY Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

News

News – Talk KRLD-AM 1.5 – 1.5, #26 – #27

News – Talk KRLD-AM Stream DNA – .1, DNA – #38

KKGM & KHVN Black Information Network DNA – .1, DNA – #38

Sports Talk

KTCK 5.3 – 5.1, #1 – #2

KRLD-FM 2.5 – 2.3, #19 – #20 (Texas Rangers)

KRLD-FM Stream 1.2 – .9, #28 – #30 (Texas Rangers)

Public Radio News/Talk

KERA 2.9 – 2.5, #12 – #17

HOUSTON 

News/Talk

KTRH 3.3 – 3.3, #13 – #13  (Astros)

KPRC .3 – .3, #30 – #27  

News

KXYZ Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

KILT-AM 1.1 – 1.3, #24 – #23

KBME 1.0 – .8, #26 – #26  (Astros)

KILT-AM Stream .6 – .3, #27 – #27

KFNC DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA  

Public Radio News/Talk

KUHF 3.4 – 4.1, #12 – #7

ATLANTA

News/Talk

WSB-AM & WSBB 7.1– 7.2, #2 – #3

WFOM .3 – .3, #30 – #29

WGKA .3 – .2, #30 – #31

WAOK DNA – .1, DNA – #33

WAOK Stream .1 – .1, #33 – #33

WSRV-HD3 Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

WBIN Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WCNN 4.1 – 4.2, #8 – #8 (Braves)

WZGC 3.7 – 2.8, #11 – #17

WZGC Stream .6 – .3, #25 – #29

Public Radio News/Talk

WABE 4.0 – 3.6, #9 – #11

WRAS  .5 – .4, #27 – #26

WABE-HD3 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk

WPHT 2.1 – 2.2, #18 – #16

WKXW 1.1 – .8, #24 – #25

WPHT Stream .7 – .7, #25 – #26

WURD .3 – .3, #28 – #28

WKXW Stream .1 – .1, #31 – #30

WDEL-AM .1 – DNA, #31 – DNA

WURD Stream .1 – DNA, #31 – DNA   

News

KYW & WPHI 5.1 – 5.0, #6 – #6

KYW & WPHI Stream .5 – .7, #27 – #26

WTEL & WDAS-HD2 Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WIP 7.4 – 7.5, #4 – #3 (Phillies)

WIP Stream 3.0 – 1.7, #10 – #19 (Phillies)

WPEN-FM 1.5 – 1.2, #21 – #22

Public Radio News/Talk

WHYY 2.9 – 3.1, #12 – #11

Note: The -1.3 (3.0 – 1.7) by sports talk WIP’s internet stream is tied for Philadelphia’s largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 decrease. 

NASSAU-SUFFOLK (LONG ISLAND)

News/Talk

WABC 1.7 – 1.8, #18 – #16

WOR 1.2 – 1.3, #19 – #20

WLIR .2 – .2, #27 – #27

News

WINS-FM 5.2 – 5.2, #3 – #2

WCBS-AM 1.8 – 1.7, #16 – #18 (Mets)

WINS-FM Stream .6 – .5, #23 – #24

WCBS-AM Stream .4 – .3, #24 – #25 (Mets)

Business News WBBR .4 – .3, #24 – #25

Sports Talk

WFAN-FM & AM 2.9 – 2.9, #10 – #10 (Yankees)

WFAN-FM & AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Yankees)

Public Radio News/Talk

WSUF .1 – .2, #31 – #27

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk

None

News

KFOO Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

KPWK .4 – .2, #21 – #24

Public Radio News/Talk

KVCR .4 – .4 #21 – #19

KPCC DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

SAN JOSE

News/Talk

KSFO 2.0 – 1.4, #17 – #21

KSFO Stream .3 – .2, #27 – #26  

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 3.5 – 4.1, #8 – #5

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream .2 – .2, #29 – #26

KNEW .2 – .2, #29 – #26 (Oakland A’s)  

Sports Talk

KNBR 3.5 – 3.2, #8 – #11 (Giants)

KGMZ 1.3 – 1.4, #22 – #21

KNBR Stream .3 – .2, #27 – #26 (Giants)

KGO .2 – .2, #29 – #26  

KGO Stream .8 – DNA, #26 – DNA  

KTCT DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA   

KGMZ Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

Public Radio News/Talk

None

MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION 

News/Talk

WKXW 7.0 – 6.3, #2 – #2

WOR 3.3 – 3.0, #9 – #9

WKXW Stream .8 – 1.0, #19 – #18         

News

WINS-FM 2.2 – 2.0, #12 – #14

WCBS-AM .8 – .8, #19 – #20 (Mets)

WINS-FM Stream .4 – .3, #24 – #23

WCBS-AM Stream .3 – .1, #25 – #25 (Mets)

Sports Talk

WFAN-FM & AM 2.9 – 2.3, #10 – #13 (Yankees)

WFAN FM & AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Yankees)    

Public Radio News/Talk

None 

Note: News/talk WKXW’s -.7 (7.0 – 6.3) represents a tie for Middlesex-Somerset-Union’s largest (6+)May 2024 – June 2024 decrease.

Up next: June 2024 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry News

Audacy Strikes Deal to Simulcast “Sports Daily” on Wichita TV Station

Audacy’s sports talk KFH-AM, Wichita enters into a deal with CBS television affiliate KWCH-TV, Wichita to simulcast video and audio of KFH’s morning show, “Sports Daily” starring co-hosts Jacob Albracht andim Tommy Castor, on KWCH’s streaming service, 12 News Connected, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. KFH operations and brand manager Tony Duesing comments, “We’re delighted to expand the reach of our wildly popular morning show, ‘Sports Daily,’ and introduce the program to a broader audience in video form. Co-hosts Jacob Albracht and Tommy Castor have a unique chemistry that resonates with Wichita’s biggest sports fans, and now viewers can enjoy their insights and banter on 12 News Connected every weekday morning.”

Industry News

Dan Mann Named Digital Sales Manager for Beasley NJ

Beasley Media Group announces that Dan Mann is promoted to digital sales manager at Beasley Mediaim Group’s New Jersey operations that includes sports talk WCTC-AM, New Brunswick “FOX Sports New Jersey” and six music brands. Mann most recently served as client services manager at the company’s Boston station group. Beasley SVP and regional market manager Dan Finn states, “We’re all very excited that Dan Mann will be returning to New Jersey full time and in a larger capacity as digital sales manager. Dan is a consummate professional and is the perfect person to take us to the next level.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

FOX News Media is presenting live programming surrounding the 2024 Republican National Convention beginning Sunday, July 14 through Thursday, July 18. Originating from Milwaukee, the network’s convention coverage will be presented across all of FOX News Media’s platforms, including FOX News Channel, FOX Business Network, FOX News Audio, FOX News Digital and FOX Nation.

Virtual News Center adds Lake Cumberland Broadcasters, LLC’s WJRS, Jamestown, Kentucky to its roster of radio affiliates. Virtual News Center will provide daily local newscasts anchored by Jayme Monacelli.

TuneIn and the Big 12 Conference announce a partnership that includes the launch of a 24/7 Conference-branded audio station on TuneIn ahead of the Big 12’s college football season kickoff on August 29. Additionally, TuneIn Premium will offer fans in-game coverage.

Industry News

The Case for AM Radio

One of the many video highlights from TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond – “The Case for AM Radio” – is now posted on the brand-new TALKERS MEDIA YouTube channel. The presentation took place at the 27th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest running national gathering held at Hofstra University on Long Island this past June 7. The event, which took place at Hofstra’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication, was presented by TALKERS in association with the university’s multi-award winning WRHU-FM/WRHU.org. The special address was delivered by Bill Brady, owner of news/talker KFNX-AM, Phoenix. Brady, a seasoned broadcaster, gave a thorough presentation in support of the “AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act” that is currently working its way through Congress in addition to citing all the benefits of keeping AM radios in new automobile dashboards in spite of the intention of a number of car manufacturers to phase them out. The segment was introduced by Alex Fife, VP of Southwest operations, iHeartMedia Total Traffic & Weather Network.  To watch the video, please click here.

Industry News

Salem Prepares for RNC Milwaukee Broadcasts

Salem Media Group is preparing for next week’s programming from Milwaukee – site of the 2024 Republican National Convention. This includes live broadcasts of Salem Radio Network’s “Mike Gallagher Show” from media row at Panther Arena, adjacent to the RNC venue at Fiserv Forum. Salem’s SRN News andim TOWNHALL News will provide top- and bottom-of-the-hour newscasts live from broadcast seats inside Fiserv Forum, as well as live feeds of acceptance speeches from Republican Presidential nominee Donald J. Trump (7/18) and his as-yet unannounced vice-presidential running mate (7/17). SRN VP news & talk programming Tom Tradup says, “As the 2024 presidential campaign kicks into high gear, SRN and SNC will provide live coverage of the RNC that will be second to none. Along with Mike Gallagher, SRN News White House correspondent Greg Clugston and SRN News U.S. Senate correspondent Bob Agnew, we’ll have on-site perspective from our “America First” host, Dr. Sebastian Gorka, who served as a national security strategist in the first Trump administration.”

Industry News

Peter Thiele Exits iHeartMedia Des Moines

Programming pro Peter Thiele exits his position as director of spoken word programming at iHeartMedia’sim Des Moines cluster that includes news/talk WHO and sports talk KXNO. Thiele joined the Des Moines operations in January of this year. He can be reached at 646-926-6581.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Edison Research announces that the Sports Audio Report: Female Fans with SiriusXM Media and Group M will be presented in a webinar on July 16 at 2:00 pm ET. Edison says the webinar will explore the unique audio listening habits of U.S. female sports fans and show how they interact with sports beyond the field. The webinar will be presented by Salma Aly, manager of Research at Edison Research and Sophie Anderson, associate director, podcast sales marketing at SiriusXM Media.

Salem Media Group closes on the sale of its Christian music stations in Nashville and Honolulu to Educational Media Foundation for $7 million. This transaction was previously announced on March 21, 2024.

PodcastOne announces the debut of its latest podcast, “Wholeheartedly with Kendall and Galey.” Hosted by fitness instructor and wellness influencer Kendall Toole and DIY home renovation expert and HBO MAX host Galey Alix, the podcast debuts on July 17 with weekly episodes dropping on Wednesdays. PodcastOne co-founder and president Kit Gray says, “Kendall and Galey have infectious energy and enthusiasm. Their passion for bettering the world around them is inspiring and PodcastOne is thrilled to give them a podcast platform to communicate with and grow their audiences. Their relatability strikes a chord with listeners and advertisers alike, and we’re excited to launch ‘Wholeheartedly.’”

Industry Views

SABO SEZ: Leonard H. Goldenson’s Real Open Door

By Walter Sabo
CEO, Sabo Media Action Partners
A.K.A. Walter M Sterling
Host, WPHT, Philadelphia – daily
Talk Media Network – Sundays

imLeonard H. Goldenson was the founder/chairman of ABC, Inc. Before Disney, before Capital Cities, ABC was… ABC and it was run by Mr. Goldenson. He launched the ABC Radio Networks, ABC Television Network, and the original ABC radio and television stations.

His background was as a movie theatre owner. He respected the crowd, applause, creativity, art, the show. Many top talent and executives owe their start or standards to Mr. Goldenson. I worked at ABC Radio for five years when Leonard was chairman, here’s what I absorbed.

— Risk for the show. Allen Shaw and his team largely invented the album rock format and launched it on the ABC FM stations. There was no proof it would work. But it made sense. That required seven stations to dump automation and hire seven AFTRA jocks and seven IATSE engineers at each station. Note the IATSE pay scale was higher than the AFTRA scale. It didn’t go as planned. In San Francisco, the presumed success was slow to profit. WRIF, Detroit, under the leadership of Willard Lochridge, slam dunk. Leonard didn’t blink. Imagine.

— ABC was caught up in the payola scandals in the early 1960s. Alan Freed was a jock on WABC. After the Congressional hearings, Goldenson said never again and vowed to sell the radio stations. WXYZ GM, Hal Neal went to the chairman and said, “Let me run them and I will clean them up.”  He did. Without mercy. Leonard kept them and the ABC AM/FM stations became legend. Imagine.

— Leonard had the heart of an artist. He painted. Every year, at the holidays, a beautiful book of his art was distributed to all employees with an essay written by Leonard sharing his thoughts and feelings about each work. We had a glimpse of his soul. Imagine.

The door was always open for talent. On-air talent could visit Mr. Goldenson without an appointment at any time. WPLJ morning star, Jim Kerr would regularly ride to the 40th floor and sit in Leonard’s office to chat. Imagine.

— At an executive conference, he got up early and started to leave. Being a smartass, I looked at him and asked why was he sneaking out? He explained that ABC was opening a movie that afternoon and he wanted to stand outside a theater and ask audience members how they liked his movie. That was his research. Imagine.

— When WABC-AM switched from music to talk, the plan called for profit in year 10. It took 11. Imagine

— Leonard Goldenson flew commercial, coach. Imagine.

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 at Night” is heard on WPHT, Philadelphia. His syndicated show, “Sterling On Sunday,” from Talk Media Network, airs 10:00 pm-1:00 am ET, now in its 10th year of success.

He can be reached by email at sabowalter@gmail.com.

Industry News

Neuhoff to Sell Remaining Radio Stations to Woodward Communications

Neuhoff Family Limited Partnership announces that it has entered into an agreement to sell its Springfield and Bloomington, Illinois radio stations to Woodward Communications, Inc for a sum yet to be announced. The asset purchase agreement has not been filed with the FCC yet. The stations include sports talk WFMB-AM in Springfield and four music brands plus three music FMs in the Bloomington market. This transactionim ends Neuhoff’s time in the radio business after almost 70 years. At one time, Neuhoff owned 24 stations – plus digital assets – in five markets. Woodward Communications, Inc operates eight stations – including news/talk WHBY-AM – in Appleton and Green Bay, Wisconsin. Neuhoff family trustee Julian Hickman says, “This final sale is bittersweet for our family, reflecting both a proud legacy and an emotional farewell. Our grandfather, Roger Neuhoff, poured his heart into the broadcast industry since the mid-1950s. The stations have been a vital part of our family and community, and while we cherish the incredible journey, it is time to turn the page.” Trustee Makena Neuhoff adds, “We would like to thank the incredible teams of local broadcasters in Springfield and Bloomington. We will forever cherish the memories and the significant impact our stations had on the local communities.”

Industry News

Legendary WLW, Cincinnati Host Jim Scott Dies at 81

Longtime Cincinnati morning radio personality Jim Scott lost his battle with ALS on June 28 at the age of 81,im his wife Donna Boland announced. Scott worked in Cincinnati for 47 years, first at WSAI and then at WLW as morning host. During his long and successful radio career in Cincinnati, the Binghamton, New York native immersed himself in charity work with the March of Dimes, the Salvation Army, the United Way, and others. He retired from WLW in 2015. He was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in 2021 and went public the diagnosis last year.

Industry News

Cumulus Promotes Shoshana Shapiro to SVP

Cumulus Media promotes Shoshana Shapiro to SVP, corporate communications and marketing from her current role as VP, corporate communications and marketing initiatives. In this new role, Shapiro will also oversee marketing for key revenue-generating programs across the company’s 85 markets. She will continueim reporting to president and CEO Mary G. Berner and remain a member of the company’s leadership team. Berner states, “Shoshana’s promotion is a reflection of the essential and unique role that she has played at Cumulus over the last nine years. Her communications work has helped us build one of the healthiest and most positive corporate cultures in our industry. Her revenue generation efforts have resulted in millions of dollars of incremental revenue for the company and significant improvements in the competitiveness of our local market sellers. Moreover, her insights and collaborative spirit have made her an invaluable member of our leadership team and I’m looking forward to her continued success in this new role.”

Industry News

WTKS-FM, Orlando’s Monsters Still Going Strong After 30 Years

im

Russ Rollins – the lead host of the long-running “Monsters in the Morning” program on iHeartMedia’s WTKS-FM, Orlando “Real Radio 104.1” in Orlando – checks in with TALKERS with a brand-new photo of the current cast of the program. [Above from l-r are: Deisi Del Toro, Amber Nova, Angel Rivera (back) Rollins, Angelique Martinez and Ryan Holmes (front).] Rollins says, “It’s funny to think that I’ve been doing this radio show for over 30 years now, having seen many talented individuals come and go. Like ‘Saturday Night Live,’ our show has been a launchpad for numerous talented personalities. While many in radio might find the constant change challenging, I consider myself fortunate to have worked with some of the best talent in the industry. Our new cast is young, vibrant, and incredibly funny. It’s invigorating to meet new talent and give them a platform to shine on the radio. As the host and one remaining original member of ‘Monsters in the Morning,’ I’ve witnessed the evolution of our show and its members over the decades.”

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Be Like Mike

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imRemember the old Gatorade commercial? The “Be like Mike” jingle accompanied a montage of gravity-defying Michael Jordan dunks.

If you’ve heard Mike Hulvey speak, you know his birthday and blood type, because he told you, in his enthused trademark close: “March 4th and B positive!”

Before he recently hit-the-ground-running as Radio Advertising Bureau CEO and president, Mike was my longtime client when he ran Neuhoff Media. I consulted his news/talk/sports WSOY, Decatur and trained news people at other stations in the group. And the company’s “Media Made Locally” mantra was more than a slogan: “Nothing makes us happier than knowing that while our big corporate competitors are abandoning all the things we think make local media special – we’re doubling down.”

With broadcasters now so challenged by non-AM/FM audio competitors – and coping with cost cuts – the “Core Values” that clicked in these small Midwest markets seem like a prescription for stations everywhere:

1. Grit: “Stick with it.”
2. Community: “Give back.”
3. Innovation: “Think different.”
4. Excellence: “Be exceptional.”

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In too many places now, a legacy call letter station is referred to as “the AM” within multi-station clusters and is bundled with music stations’ inventory… not the best sales model in Mike’s estimation: “The news/talk format offers endless opportunities to local clients.” Offered properly, these stations have “unique attributes and programming that lend itself to customize sponsorship and marketing extensions in any size market;” with otherwise “hidden gems that create opportunities for naming rights inside local sports and benchmark sponsorships as the local expert,” creating what he calls “lean-in listening that benefits advertisers.”

Live-N-local 24/7 seems quaint now, so we leverage imported programming, to make it sound more like part of the station’s own on-air family, rather than sounding like we’re an affiliate plugged-into the bird. The day Mike first introduced me at WSOY, I told the morning host: “We’ve got to get your voice in Rush Limbaugh and the Cardinals games more.”

Back to the future: With Monday-Friday syndicated talk programming mostly political, I asked Mike, “Could the sort of non-political shows that were such weekday winners for the late-great KGO and Buckley-owned WOR make a comeback?” His take: “I say yes. I believe that great locally targeted content is still a winning formula of success. While we as consumers have more choices than ever, we still crave information about where we live, work, and raise our families. While national political content has a very loud voice in the market, listeners appreciate those locally ‘world famous’ voices from where they live.”

Evidence, from the vault: 2-minute video, Mike explaining how winning radio is a relationship: https://youtu.be/wcsqrN7R7Ic

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of The Local Radio Advantage: Your 4-Week Tune-In Tune-Up and “Close Like Crazy: Local Direct Leads, Pitches & Specs That Earned the Benjamins” and “Confidential: Negotiation Checklist for Weekend Talk Radio.” Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke and connect on LinkedIn.

Industry News

Disruptor Radio’s Memphis LMA Creates Tennessee Radio Network

Disruptor Radio LLC – the company owned by John Fredericks – has entered into a Local Marketing Agreement with KQPN, Inc. to operate KQPN-AM, Memphis with an option to buy. Disruptor says theim addition of The John Fredericks Radio Network into the Memphis market combined with its airing on WENO, Nashville creates the Tennessee Radio Network, “part of the company’s ongoing growth.” The addition of KQPN-AM “Down And Dirty 730” makes the number signals operated by Disruptor Radio now 19. John Fredericks states, “Adding Memphis to our burgeoning Tennessee network is a critical component to our growth plan, as it complements our very successful WENO-AM 760 The Flame station in Nashville. Memphis is a growth market in Tennessee and we are excited to offer our new listeners a real choice in conservative-populist talk: The Down And Dirty 730.”

Industry News

KFNS-AM, St. Louis Drops Local Talent; Will Air FOX Sports Radio

The media reports from St. Louis indicate that sports talk KFNS-AM, St. Louis owner and general manager Dave Zobrist has let his local staff of sports talk hosts go and will begin airing FOX Sports Radio content beginning Monday (7/1). Premiere Networks is announcing that the station is its newest affiliate today.im Zobrist tells the St. Louis Post-Dispatch that the change is financial in nature as he is actively seeking a buyer for the station. Leaving KFNS-AM are morning hosts Cam Janssen, Charlie Marlow, and Jim Hayes; late morning host Frank Cusumano, and afternoon personalities Nate Lucas and Bernie Miklasz. In the FOX Sports Radio press release, Zobrist says, “We’re excited to expand our partnership with FOX Sports Radio to bring the biggest names in the sports talk format to St. Louis. Broadcasting FOX Sports Radio’s lineup, along with local play-by-play, will continue our commitment to delivering bold, exciting and entertaining sports talk to our listeners.”

Industry News

TALKERS Launching YouTube Channel

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TALKERS is adding a YouTube channel to its array of talk media platforms. The venue – titled Talkers Media Channel – will initially provide a base for the organization’s conference videos and a platform for its founder Michael Harrison’s reimagined video iteration of his pioneering audio podcast, “Up Close and Far Out.” Videos from the recently held TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond will begin being posted after the July 4th holiday. “Up Close and Far Out with Michael Harrison” soft launches today with a conversation between Harrison and radio tech star Kim Komando examining the sociological, biological, and theological implications of artificial intelligence. The Harrison talk show will take several forms including one-on-one interviews, panel discussions and solo commentaries. Harrison and his guests will sometimes appear on camera and on other occasions just be voices enhanced by stunning visuals and music provided by the channel’s producer TALKERS VP/associate publisher, Matthew B. Harrison. The series will be targeted to an audience Harrison describes as “pop culture aficionados, political junkies, media enthusiasts, fans of science, followers of technology and the philosophically curious.” The Harrisons plan to focus heavily upon a stable of guests composed of professionals from the world of talk media covered by TALKERS magazine but stretch beyond that core as well. After it is fully up and running, plans are in place to expand the channel’s menu to include shows and properties produced by an array of content providers. To visit the debut installment of “Up Close and Far Out with Michael Harrison,” please click here.

Industry News

Sottolano Rises to Chief Programming Officer at Audacy

Audacy promotes Jeff Sottolano to chief programming officer and signed him to a multi-year contract extension. In this role, Sottolano will be responsible for the content strategy and performance of Audacy’s local brands in all formats across broadcast, streaming, and podcast distribution platforms and oversee theim programming leadership team, talent, and content creators nationwide. Sottolano will also work closely with the company’s product and technology teams as it enhances its creator tools and delivers new digital experiences for consumers and advertisers. He will also collaborate with its podcast leadership team on the development and launch of new titles. Audacy chief operating officer Susan Larkin states, “Jeff has a track record of success. He and our programming and brand leaders have executed market-winning content strategies and initiatives that deliver for our listeners and advertisers. Jeff’s leadership has been instrumental in elevating our performance across all platforms, and this promotion underscores our confidence in his ability to continue growing our best-in-class brand portfolio.” Sottolano joined Audacy (then-Entercom) in 2001 as an intern and has served as EVP and head of programming since 2021.

Industry News

Edison Research: Video Appeals to Podcast Fans

According to Edison Research’s Edison Podcast Metrics, 79% of weekly podcast listeners in the U.S. have consumed a ‘video podcast’ – essentially watching, or at least listening to the content on a video streaming platform. Edison Podcast Metrics further measures whether podcast listeners are actively or passivelyim watching video podcasts. Sixty-two percent of weekly podcast listeners 13+ have enjoyed video podcasts passively, with the video content playing in the background while listening to the audio. Meanwhile, the data reveals a compelling point – 72% of weekly podcast listeners 13+ have enjoyed video podcasts actively, meaning they have watched video as they listen to the podcast. Edison says, “Podcasts with video elements also allow creators to repurpose content into short, engaging clips tailor-made for social media platforms – think YouTube shorts, TikTok, or reels on Instagram or Facebook. This strategy can work to enhance a show’s digital presence, while amplifying the reach and engagement of podcasts overall.”

Industry News

Michael Harrison Embarks Upon “Obsolete Slobs” Media Tour in Support of Provocative New Music Video

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Now that the TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond conference is in the history books, TALKERS founder (and Gunhill Road member) Michael Harrison has embarked upon what is being called the Summer of ‘24 “Obsolete Slobs” media tour in support of the perennial rock group’s latest music video endeavor. Gunhill Road, the ensemble that has been creating multi-genre rock and pop music spanning more than five decades, has released a breathtaking new song and video titled, “Artificial Intelligence (No Robots Were Injured in the Production of this Song).” The piece – which is an unapologetic examination of the potential consequences AI poses to current human civilization – is an advance release from the band’s forthcoming fifth album. Gunhill Road has developed a unique niche in recent years attracting hundreds of thousands of internet followers powered, in large part, by the attention and airplay given it on talk radio. New songs by the group typically debut on multiple radio talk shows sparking conversation about today’s pressing topics of news and social concern. The compositions feature clever, biting lyrics delivered in a highly musical and original way. The band consists of co-founding member/pianist/vocalist/songwriter Steve Goldrich, longtime guitarist/vocalist/songwriter Paul Reisch, noted Broadway theater instrumentalist/guitarist/vocalist/songwriter Brian Koonin, and vocalist/songwriter Michael Harrison. (Harrison co-wrote this song and performs lead vocals.) This production features a special guest vocal appearance by recording artist Bibi Farber, daughter of the late talk radio pioneer, Barry Farber. The visually stunning video for “Artificial Intelligence (No Robots Were Injured in the Production of this Song)” which, ironically, employs generative AI for many of its remarkable images, was produced by Matthew B. Harrison. The song, an infectious rocker marked by driving guitars, riveting keyboards, soaring horns and a multi-layered group chorus depicts the dangers human civilization faces in an increasingly uncertain environment marked by the rising corruption of deep fakes and manipulative algorithms that threaten elections and question the very premise of “self-evident” truths. It ultimately asks the question, “What does it mean to be human?” Check out the video here. To arrange a talk media interview with Michael Harrison to discuss the song and its implications, email info@talkers.com or call 413-565-5413.

Industry News

FNC’s “Gutfeld!” to Air Live from RNC in Milwaukee

FOX News Channel’s “Gutfeld!” will broadcast live from the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee atim 11:00 pm ET July 15 through July 18 before a live studio audience in Milwaukee’s Deer District. Host Greg Gutfeld, panelist Kat Timpf, and three guests will appear on each show. The live show will follow FOX News Channel’s “Democracy 24: Republican National Convention” special primetime coverage helmed by Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum.

Industry News

ESPN Chicago Announces Third Annual Football Fest Event

Good Karma Brands’ WMVP-AM “ESPN Chicago” is presenting the third annual “Football Fest” at the Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana on August 25. GKB says, “The highly anticipated event, now in its third year, is back with even more excitement, special guests, and unique experiences for fans. We are thrilled toim welcome back ESPN NFL insiders Adam Schefter and Field Yates, who will be sharing their expert insights and engaging with fans throughout the event.” ESPN Chicago director of content Danny Zederman states, “‘Football Fest’ is the unofficial kickoff of the NFL season, and I am excited about this year’s fest, from the stars we’ll have in the room to the show we have planned. We listened to fan feedback, and we’ve added new ways for fans to interact with their favorite ESPN Chicago and Bears Radio Network personalities, as well as a live onstage version of our fan-favorite, unfiltered podcast ‘Crosstalk Unhinged’ with Carm, Jurko, Waddle, and Silvy.”

Industry News

Damon Amendolara Makes News with YouTube Show in Oakland

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Veteran sportscaster Damon Amendolara (pictured above with A’s fans) made news in Northern California when he interviewed Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao at a recent Oakland Athletics’ fan convention on his live YouTube program “Watch D.A. Live.” Amendolara has been a champion for Athletics’ fans who want their team to stay in Oakland instead of moving to Las Vegas.  Mayor Thao said, “It’s frustrating… and it’s f***d up. I have warned the legislators in Vegas to watch out for John Fisher and Dave Kaval… and the majority have not listened. And that’s what pisses me off. If you just wanted a ballpark (and not the property around it), that could’ve been done.”

Industry Views

Pending Business: “Go F-Yourself”

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

imWhen it comes to advertisers who cancel, Elon Musk said it loud and clear at the NY Times Dealbook Summit, “Go F-Yourself.” He claimed advertisers who objected to content on X were “blackmailing him with money” by canceling ad campaigns on his X platform.

C’mon, Elon. I guess you never made the sales calls many of us have made pitching Rush Limbaugh, Howard Stern, or any of the many in talk radio who made the dreaded “no buy” list because an advertiser was alienated by their political lean, or content. Maybe Elon forgot that many advertisers feel the feedback of their customers and reflect customer input in their marketing dollars.

Many of us who made those sales calls tried to work alongside the content objections voiced by advertisers. The goal was to earn the advertiser’s dollars, not consider a cancellation as “blackmail.” A loud and clear, “Go F-Yourself,” was and still is the best way to kill the customer, torch the relationship, as your general manager, owner, stockholders, and about everyone including the wife and kids are amazed at your out-of-control rant.

Michael Richards, a.k.a. Kramer of Seinfeld fame, calls it “canceling yourself.” He should know. It seems after careful review Musk may be feeling the pain of his famous F-bomb message to “X” advertisers. Elon is now repackaging his pitch to include an A.I. component that could blunt those content objections. Will A.I. step in and keep the content compatible with the goals and objectives of those advertisers who cancelled X?

Wow, why didn’t I think of that? Eliminate good old-fashioned human judgement to understand the content the advertiser is identifying as incompatible with their goals. Maybe or maybe not. Think about how many of your advertisers listen to your talent and offer you, the seller, content feedback. Like the saying goes, many advertisers buy where they listen.

Back to the F-bomb comment. It is hard to be critical of one of the wealthiest people on the planet, but in this one instance, even a billionaire learned from his missteps. As time passed, perhaps cooler heads prevailed and those at X learned what those of us who made those early “no buy” list sales calls learned:

1. Advertisers who control budgets do not like to be told to “Go F-yourself”

2. Content cancellations are not “blackmail.” Those cancellations are based in:

a. Customer feedback

b. Advertiser culture

c. Misaligned goals

Next time you get the urge to blurt out your frustrations, remember a basic tenet of sales, “Never say anything that is too big to eat.”

Steve Lapa is the president of Lapcom Communications Corp. based in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Lapcom is a media sales, marketing, and development consultancy. Contact Steve Lapa via email at: Steve@Lapcomventures.com.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: NOW What?

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

Cost cuts continue. If you’re still working, it is, unfortunately, only prudent to wonder for-how-long. If your position is safe, are you being given additional responsibility without additional compensation? And/or have you had-it-up-to-here with the hours?

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The skill set you have accrued working on-air can open lots of doors elsewhere, especially because you are a local brand. Here are 18 options, most of which I, personally, have exploited. Which of these fit you?

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of The Local Radio Advantage: Your 4-Week Tune-In Tune-Up and “Close Like Crazy: Local Direct Leads, Pitches & Specs That Earned the Benjamins” and “Confidential: Negotiation Checklist for Weekend Talk Radio.” Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke and connect on LinkedIn

Industry News

Reuters Study Reveals Newsmax is a Top News Brand

The annual Digital News Report from the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism shows that Newsmax is one of the 12 online news brands that Americans turned to most. Reuters found that 8% of Americans —im about 25 million Americans — turn to Newsmax for their news at least weekly.  Newsmax CEO Christopher Ruddy says, “Newsmax’s rise is even more stunning considering the newness of our brand, Big Tech efforts to thwart us, and several virtual TV distributors still keeping us from their subscribers.” Newsmax recently announced its plans for an initial public offering later this year with a listing on the New York Stock Exchange or Nasdaq.

Industry News

Beasley Signs Up for SPECai

ENCO Systems, Inc, Benztown, and Compass Media Networks announce that they have entered into an agreement with Beasley Media Group to provide their SPECai product to Beasley’s local advertisingim executives companywide. Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley comments, “We are very excited to be among the early users of SPECai. The technology is a game-changing tool for our sales teams to quickly and easily produce great-sounding spec spots for clients in minutes that don’t sound AI-generated, making them very compelling for advertisers. It’s amazing technology for our industry.”

Industry News

Talk Host and Governor Candidate Bill Spadea to Appear Before NJ Election Commission

On Monday (6/17), WKXW-FM, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” morning drive host Bill Spadea announced his candidacy for governor of New Jersey as a Republican. Townsquare Media stated that regarding Spadea continuing to do his radio show “we have taken steps and imposed guidelines to ensure that Bill’s on-airim presence over the coming months and until he becomes a legally qualified candidate are in accordance with New Jersey election law, applicable FCC guidance, and industry standards and best practices for such circumstances.” The question that the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission has is because a gubernatorial candidate in the 2025 primary election must not knowingly accept a contribution in excess of $5,800 from a single source, is Spadea’s radio show – a valuable medium through which to campaign – an in-kind contribution that surpasses that monetary threshold? The Commission is requesting that Spadea appear before it at a hearing on June 26. The Commission has issued an Order to Show Cause at which time “Spadea for Governor, Candidate Spadea, and Townsquare Media shall appear and show cause before the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission for consideration by the Commission as to why a determination should not be made that the candidate’s radio airtime is an in-kind contribution from NJ 101.5 or Townsquare Media and therefore subject to the contribution limit.” The same parties are ordered to file written responses by Monday (6/24).