Industry News

Kathy Barnette Show Goes into National Syndication

The WPHT, Philadelphia-based “Kathy Barnette Show” is going into national syndication via her non-profit Seed & Root Initiative. The weekly show airs live on Saturdays from 10:00 am to 11:00 am ET and is delivered via the Salem Radio Network and by download. Barnette announced the national launch of her program at the recent Philadelphia Seed & Roots Summit at theimg Independence Center that drew fellow Black conservatives and Democrats to discuss important issues facing families today. Barnette says, “America is at a crossroads, and I believe my voice comes at a critical time. I don’t talk about poverty or perseverance from a spreadsheet – I’ve lived it. From a pig farm in Alabama to the halls of corporate America, from serving in the military to building a national platform, I’ve seen firsthand what faith, discipline, and hard work can achieve. My show is about bringing authenticity, courage, and moral clarity back to the airwaves – and planting the kind of seeds that will offer shade for generations to come.” Barnette was the national grassroots director and senior advisor Vivek Ramaswamy’s presidential campaign and is the author of Nothing to Lose, Everything to Gain: Being Black and Conservative in America (2020, Center Street).  

Industry News

Bonneville Sports Network Targets Sports Advertisers

Bonneville International is launching the Bonneville Sports Network to leverage the power of the company’s sports brands for advertisers who wish to buy nationally across markets or fully ownimg their local market. Bonneville says, “The platform brings together Arizona Sports, Seattle Sports, Denver Sports, Sactown Sports, and KSL Sports in Salt Lake City, delivering more than 63 hours of live sports programming every day across audio, video, digital, and social channels.” Bonneville president and CEO Tanya Vea adds, “Bonneville Sports Network gives advertisers both flexibility and scale. Our network reaches fans wherever and whenever they engage with sports, across every platform. Advertisers can now leverage that strength in a way that aligns with their goals, whether they’re pursuing national reach or meaningful local impact.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (November 17 – 21, 2025)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (11/17-21) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

                Stories

  1. The Epstein Files
  2. Megyn Kelly “Pedo” Comments
  3. Trump-MBS Meeting
  4. Trump vs Reporters
  5. ICE Raids
  6. Trump -Mamdani Meeting
  7. Comey Prosecution Errors
  8. Texas Redistricting Ruling
  9. UN Approves Trump’s Gaza Plan
  10. Venezuela Military Operations

                People

  1. Donald Trump
  2. Jeffrey Epstein / Ghislaine Maxwell
  3. Megyn Kelly
  4. Mohammed bin Salman
  5. Catherine Lucey / Mary Bruce
  6. Zohran Mamdani
  7. Mike Johnson
  8. Lindsey Halligan / James Comey
  9. Jeffrey Brown / David Guaderrama
  10. Nicolás Madura

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

Industry News

KMOX. St. Louis Celebrates Centennial Anniversary

Audacy’s news/talk KMOX, St Louis is celebrating 100 years of service to its listeners. Today (11/20), KMOX celebrating its centennial anniversary with over 10 hours of exclusive programming featuring current and former KMOX talent, as well as recognizing 12 stationimg pioneers. Audacy St. Louis SVP and market manager Becky Domyan states, “For 100 years, KMOX has kept St. Louis informed and connected, a legacy we are incredibly proud of. We now honor the pioneers who helped build this station. They are the definitive voices and leaders who became synonymous with KMOX and defined a century of service. We look forward to building on their foundation and continuing to serve as the home for news St. Louisans rely on for the next hundred years.” Pioneers include former KMOX general manager Robert Hyland, sports broadcaster Bob Costas, former station hosts Jack Carney, Rex Davis, Bob Hardy, Anne Keefe, John McCormick and Jim White, former St. Louis Cardinals play-by-play announcers Jack Buck, Harry Caray and France Laux, and former St. Louis Blues play-by-play announcer Dan Kelly.

Industry News

Dan Potter Exits KRMG-FM, Tulsa

Morning drive host Dan Potter is out at news/talk KRMG-FM, Tulsa after 17 years with the station and 13 years as morning drive personality. Cox Media Group recently sold the stationimg and two of its sister music-formatted outlets to a local operator – Zoellner Media Group, led by Dr. Robert Zoellner. Potter tells the Tulsa World that his exit came as a surprise. He says he was called into a meeting with Dr. Zoellner. “Our paths hadn’t crossed yet in his ownership. Shook his hand, sat down. He said, ‘We’re not renewing your contract.’ They handed me a check, and security showed me out of the building.” Prior to joining KRMG, Potter served in Dallas with WBAP-AM in several capacities, including news director.

Industry News

Triton Digital: Charlie Kirk Podcast Remains #3 in October Ranker

Triton Digital publishes its U.S. Podcast Ranker for the month of October – ranked by weekly average downloads for participating shows – and there is no movement among the top fiveimg shows. NPR’s “NPR News Now” and “Up First” rank #1 and #2, respectively, and Salem Podcast Network’s “The Charlie Kirk Show” remains ranked #3, more than a month after his slaying on September 10. Other talk radio-related podcasts of note include Cumulus Podcast Network’s “VINCE” climbs one place to #12; iHeartRadio’s “The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show” falls two places to #18; and Cumulus Podcast Network’s “The Mark Levin Show” rises four places to #34. See the complete ranker here.

Industry News

Like Father, Like Daughter

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Pictured above is Syracuse University student Dorothy Sabo (right) with CBS News reporter, producer and event organizer Sara Kugel (left) showing off her first place JANY Award as Executive Producer best regularly scheduled TV student newscast at the Journalists Association of New York awards ceremony at SU’s Newhouse School of Communication. Pictured below are John Mullen (left) professor and general manager of Hofstra University’s WRHU-FM, winner of several JANY Awards this year, and Newhouse School alumnus Walter Sabo (right).

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Industry News

Audacy Promotes Chase Daniels to VP of Programming

Audacy announces the promotion of Chase Daniels to vice president of programming for the station group that includes sports talk WKRK-FM “92.3 The Fan.” Audacy Cleveland SVP andimg market manager Jeff Miller says in a memo to staff, “Since arriving in Cleveland almost three years ago, Chase has concentrated on our brands, our execution and our team with hopes of building on the great foundation that was already in place. His relentless focus on being the best, along with consistent coaching and leadership, has led to significant growth for individuals and our four stations. Please join me in congratulating Chase on his well-deserved elevation to VP of programming for Cleveland. Chase will continue to focus on the overall programming performance for all four of our brands as we head into 2026 and beyond.”

Industry Views

SABO SEZ: I Was Banned by WBIR-TV

By Walter Sabo
a.k.a. Walter Sterling, Host
WPHT, Philadelphia, “Walter Sterling Every Damn Night”
TMN syndicated, “Sterling on Sunday”

imgFinally. Not by Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, nope; I was banned from a WBIR anchor’s video live stream.

Background:

Throughout the country, bored local TV anchors and radio hosts set up their phone on their desk and stream their newscasts. During their breaks, they address the Live Stream with actual news, real news, top-of-minders that are far more compelling than the accident at 5th and Piedmont that gets on the air.

Some of the live streams are truly entertaining and would pull 20 shares if aired. While watching the featured TikTok WBIR-TV stream, the anchor at the desk was having her nails done. A co-worker showed off her spectacular, exotic, eccentric nails. Any father of daughters could appreciate her next level of nail art. It was news. In the live stream comments, I typed… show the nails on the air. They are fantastic. Of course, that never happened. Instead, the anchor ran with the story of a Casey’s chain store open for a third shift. “It’s kind of like a store that never sleeps,” center store manager Kimberly Hunley said.

The nails were stunning, but the passion of the anchor and her co-workers was the actual news. The team’s focus on the nails was compelling. Their passion was the news. News belongs on the air.

BANNED!  Saturday morning. After my third polite comment urging the WBIR team to show the nails on the air, I was banned from commenting on the stream. A first. Finally, I said something so offensive, so contrary to the news narrative that I was banned.

[EDITOR’S NOTE:  What the heck did you say, Walter?]

Get Your New Playlist at Thanksgiving

This holiday the rule at dinner will be, don’t talk about politics. Pay close attention to what is discussed. Make notes. If your station wants younger demos, FM music-type demos, trust that the Thanksgiving conversation is an all-hits conversation. Hosts that aren’t afraid to air the hits get ratings.

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

Fisher House Thanksgiving Edition Now Available at No Cost

Fisher House Foundation is making its Thanksgiving Week edition of “Together in Mission: The Fisher House Journey” available to stations for free. You can check out a demo and register here. “Together in Mission: The Fisher House Journey” is a radio special provided in varying lengths for news/talk radio stations as well as a 30-minute public affairs show suitable for allimg formats. The program is available in three versions: three-hour, one-hour, 25-minutes and 30-minutes and are hosted by radio personality Larry O’Connor, morning drive host at WMAL-FM, Washington, DC. It features stories of America’s military heroes, the families who serve by their side, and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey. Listeners will hear their emotional stories fighting for our freedoms, how they sustained their injuries, and the welcoming homes Fisher House provides for them and their loved ones while they endure their painful and painstaking recoveries. This year’s program features a special focus on the incredibly inspiring victories our wounded warriors enjoy on the field of competitive, adaptive sports. Fisher House supports the Wounded Warrior Games and the lnvictus Games as a vital part of the physical, emotional, and mental healing process for our wounded veterans. For more information on this radio special, available cash and barter free, contact Larry O’Connor at 562-665-9537 or loconnor@fisherhouse.org.

Industry News

Radio Executive and Station Owner Willard Lochridge Dies at 85

Longtime radio executive and station owner Willard Lochridge died on November 13 at age 85.img Lochridge entered the business in the sales department and by 1970 became the general manager of WRIF, Detroit. He was promoted by ABC to general manager for WPLJ, New York in 1973. He would serve at KAUM, Houston before returning to New York to serve with ABC Radio Networks. He later joined NBC’s The Source. In 1988 he and his wife purchased a small station in Wickenburg, Arizona.

Industry News

Connoisseur Media to Sell 15 Missouri Stations

Just a day after announcing that it is selling its three-station Bakersfield, California cluster to local operator Frequency Broadcasting, Inc, Connoisseur Media announces that it is entering into an agreement to sell its 15 radio stations in Missouri to Carter Media LLC and Carter Media Too LLC. Carter Media is based in Carrollton, Missouri which is about halfway between Kansas City andimg Columbia. The stations are in small markets and include: KAAN-AM/FM, Bethany; KWIX-FM, Cairo; KKWK-FM and KMRN-AM, Cameron; KIRK-FM, Macon; KTCM-FM, Madison; KRES-FM and KWIX-AM, Moberly; KJEL-FM and KBNN-AM, Lebanon; and KFBD-FM, KOZQ-FM, KJPW-AM, and KIIK-AM in Waynesville. Connoisseur Media founder and CEO Jeffrey Warshaw says, “These Missouri markets did not fit into our long-term plans. We are pleased to have found a trusted buyer in Miles Carter and his family-oriented company.” Carter comments, “We have wanted to expand for a while and when the opportunity came, we were eager to talk with Connoisseur. As we look toward the new markets, our mission remains the same: bring trustworthy local news, agriculture coverage, and community-focused storytelling to areas that need a stronger voice. Expansion isn’t about getting bigger, it’s about serving more people with the kind of reliable, hometown broadcasting Carter Media was built on.”

Industry News

Cumulus: YouTube Hits All-Time High as Podcast Platform

Cumulus Media and Signal Hill Insights publish the Podcast Download – Fall 2025 Report, what they call “a comprehensive evaluation of the latest podcast audience trends.” The firms say that the 15th edition of the study examines the habits of weekly podcast consumers and concludes that there are differences in consumption patterns among those who prefer listening or watching podcasts. Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group senior insights manager img Elizabeth Mayer states, “In our continued focus on YouTube and watchable podcasts, this edition of the Podcast Download reveals YouTube at an all-time high for consumption. Regardless of tenure or heavy usage, YouTube remains in the top spot, which speaks to podcast consumers seeking out watchable podcasts. 12% of weekly podcast consumers use Smart TVs where video components are intuitive and easy to access to listen to podcasts.” Signal Hill Insights president and CEO Paul Riismandel adds, “Audio is still key. While we see yet another bump in the preference to use YouTube for podcasts, we don’t see notable change in the number of weekly podcast consumers who are only watching their podcasts. This segment remains a tiny minority – just 8% in this report.” See more and download the full report here.

Industry Views

TALKERS Exclusive: Why AM Radio Still Matters – And Why Cities Must Step Up to Save It

By Frank Morano
City Councilor
New York City 51st District
Staten Island

imgFor most of my life, the sound of an AM signal has been my constant companion. Long before I ever spoke into a microphone professionally, I was the kid hiding under the covers with a transistor radio, slowly turning the dial, discovering voices, ideas, communities, and worlds far beyond my bedroom. AM radio didn’t just shape my career – it shaped who I am.

That’s why, as both a lifelong AM radio listener and a longtime AM broadcaster (77WABC and WNYM-AM “970 The Answer”), I’m introducing legislation in the New York City Council to require that all City-owned and City-contracted vehicles continue to include functioning AM receivers. I’m proud of my work in government, but this one is personal. Because AM radio isn’t just entertainment or nostalgia – it’s infrastructure. It’s public safety. It’s the backbone of our emergency communications system. And it’s in danger.

When Everything Else Fails, AM Radio Doesn’t  

We don’t have to imagine what happens when modern communications collapse. We’ve lived it.

On September 11, 2001, when cell networks jammed almost immediately, millions of New Yorkers turned to AM radio for news, instructions, and reassurance.

In the 2003 Northeast Blackout, AM signals were among the very few communications systems still functioning across multiple states.

During Superstorm Sandy, when much of the region lost power and internet for days, AM remained a critical lifeline for emergency updates, evacuation information, and weather alerts.

These weren’t theoretical scenarios. They were real moments of crisis – and AM radio proved its value every single time.

When the lights go out, AM stays on. When cell networks are overwhelmed, AM cuts through. When the internet fails, AM continues broadcasting. It is the most resilient form of mass communication ever created, and FEMA and the National Weather Service still rely on AM frequencies for a reason: they reach people when nothing else can.

AM Radio Is Still the Soundtrack of America 

Beyond emergencies, AM radio remains woven into the cultural fabric of this country. It’s where Americans talk to each other – about politics, sports, faith, overnight oddities, neighborhood issues, and everything in between. It’s one of the last places where anyone can call in, join the conversation, and be part of a community.

The same AM dial that once carried the voices announcing D-Day, the moon landing, and the gritty street reporting of New York legends still carries the news, opinions, and debates that shape American life today. There is something uniquely democratic about the AM band: it is accessible, unpretentious, inexpensive, and available to everyone.

That’s worth preserving. Especially now, as some automakers – particularly in the electric vehicle space – phase AM radios out of new models, citing interference or cost concerns.

Cities and States Can Lead Where Washington Waits 

Congress is considering the “AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act,” and I support it wholeheartedly. But federal action can take time. Cities and states can move faster.

New York City’s legislation can be a model:

  • If municipalities require AM receivers in the vehicles they procure…
  • If state governments do the same for their fleets…
  • And if enough jurisdictions stand firm…

Automakers will have no choice but to keep AM radio in every vehicle they sell.

Government can’t – and shouldn’t – tell anyone what to listen to. But we absolutely can ensure that the option to listen still exists. And that, when disaster strikes, the public can rely on a system proven over nearly a century to work under the toughest circumstances imaginable.

The Signal Must Go On 

AM radio isn’t a relic. It’s a lifeline. It’s a civic space. It’s one of the last great mediums that belongs to the people. As someone who owes much of his career – and much of his identity – to those airwaves, I feel a responsibility to protect them.

By acting locally here in New York City, I hope we inspire communities across the country to do the same. If we want the AM dial to be there for the next blackout, the next storm, or the next unthinkable moment, the time to act is now.

Because when everything else goes silent, AM radio still speaks.

And we need to make sure it always will. 

Frank Morano was recently elected City Councilor representing New York City’s 51st district. Prior to that he forged a distinguished career in talk radio at WABC and WNYM in New York. Councilor Morano can be reached via email at  frank@moranoforcouncil.com.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: The Power of Pause in Local Radio

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imgIn an industry built on speed – breaking news, live liners, commercial deadlines – “pause” can feel like a luxury radio can’t afford. But Kevin Cashman’s The Pause Principle: Step Back to Lead Forward (Wiley) argues the opposite: pausing isn’t weakness, it’s a competitive advantage. For local radio leaders, the message couldn’t be timelier.

Cashman defines pause as the conscious act of stepping back to gain perspective before moving forward. Leaders who constantly react miss opportunities for growth and innovation. Those who pause, he argues, engage with more clarity, creativity, and authenticity.

Think about the daily grind in local radio. The PD is juggling ratings pressure, expense challenges, talent issues, and a half-dozen urgent emails from corporate. The sales manager is chasing month-end, writing copy on deadline, and fielding calls from advertisers. In that swirl, it’s tempting to equate motion with progress. Yet, as Cashman warns, constant motion without reflection leads to burnout, blind spots, and missed chances to connect.

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For broadcasters, pause can take many forms:

  • Programming: Instead of cranking out another promo, take time to ask if the message really resonates with the community. What do listeners need from us right now?
  • Sales: Before pitching another rate card, pause to explore the client’s true business challenge. That deeper understanding can unlock bigger, longer-term partnerships.
  • Leadership: In staff meetings, pause to let quieter voices contribute. The next big idea might come from someone who usually doesn’t speak up.

Cashman links pause to authenticity. When leaders slow down enough to be present, they foster trust. In local radio, where credibility is everything, that authenticity builds loyalty with both audiences and advertisers.

He also reminds us that pause is not about inaction. It’s about deliberate action. A well-timed pause before responding to a crisis on-air, before agreeing to a questionable promotion, or before rushing through a strategic decision can be the difference between a misstep and a breakthrough.

For local stations, the takeaway is clear: The pace isn’t going to slow down. The emails will keep coming, the ratings will keep posting, and the deadlines will keep looming. But leaders who carve out moments of pause will not only preserve their sanity – they’ll make better decisions, inspire their teams, and serve their communities more meaningfully.

Pause. Reflect. Then lead forward.

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

Industry News

Connoisseur to Sell Bakersfield Cluster

Connoisseur Media enters into an agreement to sell its Bakersfield, California radio stations to local operator Frequency Broadcasting, Inc. The station group includes news/talk KNZR-AM/FM, CHR KLLY-FM, and rhythmic oldies KKBB-FM. This transaction is pending regulatory approvalimg by the FCC and is expected to close early next year. Connoisseur Media says the sale is “another step in the company’s efforts to concentrate on markets where it can execute its successful playbook. It is one element in the strategic plan for the markets acquired in Connoisseur Media’s acquisition of Alpha Media that took place in September.” Connoisseur Media founder and CEO Jeff Warshaw says, “Bakersfield was a market that did not fit into the long-term plans we have for Connoisseur. We looked for a local operator that we felt could devote the time and energy that Bakersfield deserves. We are confident that we have found that in Frequency and the Hill family operation.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

MIW Announces Digital Sales Mentorship Program. Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc announces the second annual Digital Sales Mentorship Program designed to accelerate the growth and professional development of women in digital radio sales. It provides one exceptional female seller or manager with personalized, hands-on mentorship from an accomplished industry leader. The selected mentee will receive monthly one-on-one coaching from an experienced mentor, access to digital subject-matter experts, and targeted guidance across key areas of digital revenue strategy. Find out more and apply here.

WABC Presents Future of NYC Presser. Red Apple Media’s WABC, New York is presenting a live press conference at 11:00 am ET on the future of New York City under Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. It’s being hosted by WABC’s Dominic Carter with panelists including Red Apple CEO John Catsimatidis, former Governor David Paterson, political activist Fernando Mateo, and Kathryn Wylde president of the Partnership for NYC.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend (11/15-16)

The most discussed stories over the weekend on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. The Epstein Files
  2. Flight Chaos
  3. S. Military Operations Near Venezuela
  4. Trump’s Pardon of Changpeng Zhao
  5. Charlotte ICE Operations
Industry News

Commissioner Gomez Criticizes FCC’s News Distortion Policy

FCC Commissioner Anna M. Gomez releases a critique of what she is calling the Commission’s “improper use of the News Distortion policy.” She says, “The FCC does not have the authority, the ability, or the constitutional right to go after broadcasters for their news content. The Communications Act forbids the Commission from censoring broadcasters, and the Firstimg Amendment protects journalistic choices from government intimidation. Nevertheless, this FCC has deployed a vague and ineffective News Distortion policy as a weapon to stretch its licensing authority and pressure newsrooms. The First Amendment is a pillar of our democracy. As federal regulators, we must respect the rule of law, uphold the Constitution, and ensure that a free press is never subjected to regulatory interference by the FCC.” The FCC’s News Distortion Policy was created in 1949 and has been criticized from time to time over the years. It has rarely been invoked until now. A Petition for Special Relief before the FCC signed by 11 people, including former FCC Chairman Thomas E. Wheeler, asks that the Commission repeal the news distortion policy. They cite case law, saying, “In Moody v. NetChoice, LLC, the Supreme Court, applying the First Amendment, reaffirmed that the government has no role in ‘un-biasing’ the media. In direct contradiction to that decision, the news distortion policy seeks to mold the speech of private broadcasters to the FCC’s own view of what is correct, complete, and accurate news. The First Amendment forbids the government from embarking on such a project.”

Industry News

Allen Sliwa Joins “AM 570 LA Sports”

iHeartMedia’s KLAC, Los Angeles “AM 570 LA SPORTS” adds NBA analyst Allen Sliwa as an on-air contributor to its NBA and Los Angeles Lakers coverage. Sliwa is host of the YouTubeimg show, “Hoops Talk.” Sliwa will provide expert insight, analysis and commentary across AM 570 LA SPORTS content throughout the NBA season, including featured segments available on the iHeartRadio app. Sliwa previously served on the Lakers Radio broadcast in pre-game, halftime, and post-game coverage. KLAC program director Brian Long says, “Allen is one of the premier voices covering the Lakers. With the excitement surrounding the team this season, his perspective and passion will be a great addition to our coverage and valuable voice for Lakers fans in Southern California and across the country.”

Industry News

WGN, Chicago Wins Three Silver Dome Awards

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Nexstar Media Group’s news/talk WGN, Chicago was honored with 2025 Illinois Broadcasters Association (IBA) Silver Dome Awards, including two for the WGN Radio newsroom. The awards were announced on November 6 at a reception held at the InterContinental Hotel in Chicago. WGN Radio won Silver Dome Awards for Best Continuing Coverage – “Trial of Michael Madigan”; Best Feature – “Chicago Teachers Told to Pass Migrant Students” by Sylvia Snowden and Ryan Burrow; and Best Radio Personality – John Williams. Additionally, IBA also recognized Dave Eanet, whose two stints on WGN Radio encompass more than 30 years, with the 2025 Chicago/W. Russell Withers Jr. Broadcast Pioneer Award. The award is named after the late W. Russell Withers Jr, founding father of the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation.

Industry Views

SABO SEZ: P1s and Meters are Not Your Friends

By Walter Sabo
a.k.a. Walter Sterling, Host
WPHT, Philadelphia, “Walter Sterling Every Damn Night”
TMN syndicated, “Sterling on Sunday”

imgOne of my first jobs out of college was working in the marketing department of WNBC-AM, New York. Yes, “Imus In The Morning” (Don Imus – not nice), Cousin Brucie (Bruce Morrow – nicest star who ever lived). One of my tasks was to pull ratings numbers from the computer for the sales department. I was fascinated by TIME SPENT LISTENING (TSL) and CUME numbers. I’d rank them, compare, trend them every way imaginable.

The station with the longest TIME SPENT LISTENING (TSL): The Greek language station. The station with the shortest TSL, WABC – a Top 40 rocker. The station with the highest cume, WABC.

Legendary WABC programmer Rick Sklar explained, “We wanted to be everybody’s second favorite station. Everybody’s!” WABC had a 5 million cume. Listeners always came back to WABC. That was the plan.

Regardless of the genre, building a station that everyone comes back to has been the successful tactic of all of my programming work: AC, urban, oldies and yes, talk. New Jersey 101.5, WTKS-FM, Orlando and others were designed to appeal to many listeners over and over rather than just a small group of people who never leave. What’s a more stable, predictable business?  One that counts on a single listener for one hour of listening or four listeners for fifteen minutes each?

A deep, profound study of P1s and TSL can only have one result: Declining cume. It is a fatal myth that talk is a “low cume, high TSL format.” It can be, and it will die.  Or it can be and has been a high cume, low TSL business that grows, is stable, and predictable. The key is careful rotation of topics, urgency, top-of-mind subjects, no theory, and lots of weather.

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

iHeartMedia Q3 Revenue Dips 1.1%

iHeartMedia’s third quarter 2025 financial results are in and the company is reporting revenue of $997 million, a decline of 1.1% from the same period in 2024. iHeartMedia’s Multiplatform Group (including radio stations) revenue was $591 million – down 5% from Q3 of 2024 – and the company’s Digital Audio Group revenue was $342 million – up 14% over Q3 of 2024). Notably, the company’s Podcast Revenue was $140 million, up 22% year-over-year. iHeartMediaimg chairman and CEO Bob Pittman comments, “We’re pleased with our third quarter performance, generating Adjusted EBITDA of $205 million, slightly above the midpoint of our guidance range, and our consolidated revenue was down 1.1% compared to prior year, at the high end of our guidance, and up 2.8% excluding political revenue. And we continue to take important steps in the evolution of our company – last week we announced our new relationship with Amazon Ads, which will provide advertisers using Amazon DSP access to our vast audio portfolio, and just this morning we announced our new TikTok partnership, which will bring TikTok creators into iHeart’s ecosystem. We are committed to exploring new ways to unlock the value of our unparalleled assets, maximizing the unique position we occupy in the evolving media landscape, and creating innovative cross-platform opportunities to bring new products and services to our consumers and our advertising partners.”

Industry News

Salem Media Group Q3 Net Revenue Falls 12.6%

Salem Media Group reveals its operating results for the third quarter of 2025 and reports that netimg revenue was $51.3 million, a decline of 12.6% from the same period in 2024. The company’s broadcast revenue was $40.7 million, down 11.5% from Q3 of 2024, and digital media revenue was $10.5 million, down 3% from the same period a year ago. The company posted a net loss of $2.3 million compared to the net loss of $6.6 million it posted in Q3 of 2024.

Industry News

St. John Upped to DOS for Bonneville Seattle

Bonneville International promotes Crista St. John to director of sales for the Seattle market that includes news/talk KIRO-FM, KIRO-AM “Seattle Sports,” conservative talk KTTH-AM “Seattle Red,” and MyNorthwest.com. St. John, who has been serving as general sales manager,img comments, “I’m honored and excited to take on this new role and continue building on the incredible momentum our teams have created. Bonneville Seattle is home to passionate, talented individuals who care deeply about our brands, our partners, and our community. I look forward to helping us grow even stronger – together.” Bonneville Seattle SVP and market manager Cathy Cangiano states, “Crista has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to relationship-building. Her promotion is a testament to the impact she’s made and the confidence we have in her ability to lead us into the future. Crista was the clear choice for this role, and I’m thrilled to partner with her as we shape the next chapter for Bonneville Seattle. Her vision and energy will be instrumental in our continued growth.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (11/10)

The most discussed stories yesterday (11/10) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. Tentative Government Reopening Deal / Air Travel Chaos
  2. Veterans Day
  3. Trump’s $2,000 Tariff Dividend
  4. Trump Asks SCOTUS to Vacate E. Jean Carroll Award
  5. SCOTUS Refuses to Overturn Gay Marriage Ruling
Industry Views

Monday Memo: “What NEXT???” is The New Normal

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imgIf you’re a news/talk station, be known-for-knowing what’s happening. My client stations routinely invite tune-in “for a quick [name of network] news update, every hour, throughout your busy day.”

Then, when The Big Story blocks-out-the-sun:

If you automate syndicated shows, who will get alerts and can take the story wall-to-wall joining continuing network coverage?

    • Got station news HR? What’s your plan for covering a major local event? Stations I work with are “news partners” with local TV stations. Radio simulcasts TV coverage…and takes them where TV otherwise isn’t, in-car. Win-win.

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  • If you’re a music station with a news/talk cluster mate, gauge whether an event warrants promoting that the brother station is on-the-story, or if you should simulcast.

Regardless of format, think car radio. People near TV will likely be watching.

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

Beasley Third Quarter Revenue Down 12.4%

Beasley Media Group reveals operating results for the third quarter of 2025 and reports net revenue of $51 million a decline of 12.4% compared to Q3 of 2024. Beasley says the performance was in line with its guidance and “reflects continued softness in the traditionalimg agency advertising market, partially offset by sustained growth in high-margin, owned-and-operated digital revenue and local direct sales.” Beasley recorded an operating loss of approximately $300,000 in the third quarter of 2025, compared to an operating income of $1.2 million in the imgprior year quarter. Beasley CEO Caroline Beasley comments, “Our third quarter results demonstrate continued operational discipline. While advertising demand remains challenging, particularly within agency channels, the quality of our revenue mix continues to strengthen, led by sustained growth and record margins in our digital business. Digital revenue now represents roughly one-quarter of total company revenue, with owned-and-operated products driving margin expansion and scalability. At the same time, our cost-reduction initiatives are yielding tangible, lasting benefits. We’ve reduced total station operating and corporate expenses by $15 million year-to-date, while improving organizational efficiency and positioning Beasley to generate higher returns on every dollar of revenue. As we move into the fourth quarter, we remain focused on disciplined execution, strengthening our balance sheet through planned asset sales, and advancing our strategy to deliver sustainable shareholder value.”

Industry News

Townsquare Media Q3 Net Revenue Falls 7.4%

Townsquare Media’s third quarter 2024 financial results are in and the company reports net revenue of $106.8 million, a decline of 7.4% compared to the same period a year ago. The company reports a net loss of $5.5 million for the period after posting net income of $11.3 million a year ago. Townsquare Media CEO Bill Wilson states, “In the first nine months of 2025,img Townsquare’s total Digital net revenue increased +2.1% year-over-year, representing 55% of the Company’s total net revenue, and Digital Segment Profit increased +3.6% year-over-year, operating at a 26% profit margin, and representing 55% of our total Segment Profit. In particular, I’d like to highlight the strong performance of our Direct Digital Advertising revenue streams img(including the direct sales of our owned and operated digital properties and our programmatic offering), which increased +7% year-over-year in the third quarter, partially offsetting the significant short-term headwinds we are currently facing due to the deterioration in online audience trends; and the strong profit performance of Townsquare Interactive, which delivered Segment Profit growth of +21% year-over-year in the third quarter (+$1.1 million) and +19% year-over-year in the September year-to-date period (+$3.0 million). Despite numerous headwinds that we have encountered, we are proud that the execution of our Digital First Local Media strategy has allowed us to deliver excellent results for our clients, while also producing strong cash flow from operations due to the thoughtful and deliberate management of our expense base.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

McVay to Consult Zeno Media. Zeno Media, a global streaming and podcast infrastructure company serving diaspora communities in over 100 countries, announces the appointment of Mike McVay as a strategic advisor. In this role he’ll work closely with Zeno’s leadership team to sharpen content strategy, strengthen programming innovation, and help scale the company’s audio business across traditional, digital, and streaming platforms.

Jones to Interview Couric at Gracies Leadership Awards. The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) announces that “TODAY” co-host Sheinelle Jones will conduct a fireside chat with award-winning journalist Katie Couric at the November 18 2025 Gracies Leadership Awards at Tribeca 360° in New York City. Couric will be honored with the distinguished Gracies Icon Award in recognition of her groundbreaking career and contributions to media.

WRKO Raises $137k for Disabled Vets. iHeartMedia Boston’s news/talk WRKO raised $137,736 during the tenth annual DAV Radiothon to benefit the Disabled American Veterans Department of Massachusetts last Friday. WRKO personalities Jeff Kuhner, Chuck Zodda, Mike Armstrong, and Howie Carr encouraged listeners to donate and raise funds for the DAV of Massachusetts’ homeless shelter and transportation programs. Since 2016, DAV Radiothon has raised over $1,263,000 to benefit veterans in the community.

Industry News

Saga Communications Q3 Net Revenue Falls 1.8%

Saga Communications reports operating results for the third quarter of 2025 and states that net revenue was $28.2 million, a decrease of 1.8% from the same period in 2024. Station operating expense increased $2 million or 8.7% for the quarter to $24.7 million compared to the sameimg period last year. Saga says this was primarily the result of an industry wide settlement with two music licensing organizations (ASCAP and BMI) resulting in a retroactive rate adjustment of approximately $2.1 million covering the period from January 1, 2022, to the quarter ended September 30, 2025. Station operating expense would have decreased $120 thousand or 0.5% for the quarter without this settlement. For the quarter, Saga had an operating loss of $626 thousand compared to operating income of $1.6 million for the same quarter last year and station operating income decreased $2.5 million to $3.5 million. Without the settlement the operating loss would have been operating income of $1.5 million compared to $1.6 million and station operating income would have been $5.6 compared to $6.0 million for the same quarter last year. Saga reports a net loss of $532,000for the quarter compared to net income of $1.3 million for the third quarter last year. Saga says its balance sheet reflects $34.2 million in cash and short-term investments as of November 3, 2025.

Industry News

Audacy Launches Detroit Sports Network

Audacy is launching “97.1 Detroit Sports Radio Network” on December 1, what it calls “a new, centralized hub for sports fans across Michigan.” The company’s “97.1 The Ticket” (WXYT-FM, Detgroit) will serve as “the flagship station of the first-of-its-kind statewide platform produced andimg distributed by Audacy to unite the biggest sports voices, markets, and fans.” Audacy Detroit SVP and market manager Debbie Kenyon says, “The launch of ‘97.1 Detroit Sports Radio Network’ represents a massive commitment to our listeners and an exciting chapter in our growth. We are excited to partner with Townsquare Media and other media companies to expand our footprint across all of Michigan and to deliver great content to the dedicated fan base we serve. We are proud to deliver best-in-class sports coverage to the entire state, solidifying our position as the essential source for Michigan sports audio content now and for years to come.” The network’s first affiliates include Townsquare Media’s WFGR in Grand Rapids, WJIM in Lansing, WBCK in Battle Creek, and WKMI in Kalamazoo, plus Blarney Stone Broadcasting’s WGRY in Roscommon. Additional affiliates will be announced in the upcoming months.