Search Results for: free free

Industry News

Donovan McNabb Joins Outkick

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Sports media platform OutKick today launches a new video podcast starring former NFL star Donovan McNabb titled, “The 5 Spot with Donovan McNabb,” (co-hosted by OutKick senior NFL writer Armandoim Salguero) that will drop every Tuesday and Friday during the NFL season. Outkick founder Clay Travis states, “Donovan McNabb is an NFL legend who I always enjoyed watching, except when he played against the Titans. I’m ecstatic to have him as a teammate now and he will be a great addition to OutKick, where we are continuing to build a unique home for the most insightful personalities in sports media who are free to speak their minds.”

Industry News

Bold Gold Foundation Announces VIP Speakers for 8th Annual Event

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The Bold Gold Foundation, the non-profit arm of the Bold Gold Media Group that supports educational programs to help students prepare for careers in broadcast journalism, announces that this year’s 8th Annual Event and Dinner on October 21 at the Keystone Grand Ballroom at Mohegan Pennsylvania in Wilkes-Barre will feature General David Petraeus and Lord Andrew Roberts as keynote speakers. This year’s event is being done in partnership with the Churchill Society of Pennsylvania and will pay tribute to the United States Armed Forces and the theme will follow the title of Petraeus’ and Roberts’ forthcoming book, Conflict: The Evolution of Warfare from 1945 to Ukraine (Harper 2023). Bold Gold president Vince Benedetto says, “This year will be a most extraordinary event as we have the honor of hosting two remarkable leaders, General David Petraeus and Lord Andrew Roberts. General Petraeus is, of course, one of the all-time great U.S. military commanders and strategists, and Andrew Roberts is one of the greatest living historians and scholars. This evening will be historic, educational and prescient. Having these two giants together on the same stage will be a night to remember.” The Bold Gold Foundation is also be honoring Northeast Pennsylvania business leader, James Shook, of Lake Region IGA, with The Atlas Award for Citizenship, an honor that is bestowed on individuals who, through their hard work and bold actions, show what is possible to achieve in a free society, and who exhibit extraordinary dedication to the highest ideals of character, community service, entrepreneurialism, patriotism, leadership, and virtue. A limited number of complimentary tickets are available for students interested in a career in broadcast media, as well as for military members and first responders. Find more information about the event here.

Industry Views

Pending Business: A Little Change Can Do You Good

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

imLast week, with little time left on the clock, Disney and Charter Communications made a deal so that Charter customers could continue to watch Disney programming. Phew! Just in time for 15 million Charter cable customers to have access to that 53-year-old American institution called “Monday Night Football.”

It’s amazing how the two sides came together just in time to preserve the TV viewing habits of millions of football fans and all those millions of ad dollars sold into the broadcasts. Although both Disney and Charter lobbed streaming options at viewers to help ease the temporary pain, in the end, cooler heads prevailed, and a deal was struck.

Not so fast, somebody buried a headline.

Just before Labor Day, the Charter guys were claiming the current cable TV bundling model ain’t what it used to be, in effect acknowledging the nearly 5 million people a year who cut the cable. The cable bundle value proposition is changing before our blurry gameday eyes, and more options are becoming accessible every day. Does any of this “I can get this somewhere else” ring familiar?

Try this at home. Ask any Gen Z people you know how often they listen to the radio. (Gen Z are roughly between nine and 26 years old.) Now ask the Millennials you know (roughly 27 to 42 years old). The results will frighten you as you realize the greatest freebie electronic entertainment ever invented is losing the future faster than cord cutters on steroids.

If you have been in the terrestrial radio business for longer than five years, you are aware of the melting ice cube future of radio. Even our friends in the newspaper business are changing with the times, looking for writers who will report specifically on Taylor Swift and Beyonce. They tour the world generating crazy numbers in ticket and music sales. Their appearances and social media impact everything from fashion to politics. How is that for changing a future value proposition?

Sports fan or not, are you in touch with the Coach Prime phenomenon happening at the University of Colorado? The story was featured on the soon-to-be 56-year-old “60 Minutes.”

Deon Sanders is changing college football in Boulder as fans gobble up seats at over $500 a piece.

The point of this column is simple. From cable to pop culture to Coach Prime, leadership is innovating, finding new ways to re-invent and re-package a premise as old as song and sport, a premise much older than the terrestrial radio business. Maybe we can all learn from what we sell.

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: Why Not Just Podcast?

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imI’m occasionally asked this by attorneys, real estate agents, personal finance advisors, and other local retail service professionals who are disappointed with results they’re getting from hosting weekend ask-the-expert call-in shows.

The Good News: Anyone can podcast.
The Bad News: Anyone can podcast.

That’s evident from the way many podcasts sound, without the planning and polish of a broadcast-quality presentation that demonstrates your expertise and comforting counsel.

So here’s Part 2 of the 2-part series that began here last week: Yes, DO podcast. Data from respected Edison Research demonstrates that podcasting attained “mainstream media” status back in 2016. So do accommodate your prospective clients’ appetite for on-demand media.

im

But who will know your podcast…exists? Lots of radio listeners and social media followers…IF the podcast is part of a coordinated multi-platform marketing strategy. A well-executed, well-promoted weekend show is the hub. Picture an octopus. The torso is the radio show. Appendages include podcasts – both whole hours on-demand and “snack-size” single topic solutions – and aircheck clips linked from social media posts, informative blog posts about issues callers raise, E-newsletter, etc.

Said another way: If the weekend show is a stand-alone, return-on-investment for brokering those hours can be dubious.

And – unlike hobbyist-sounding podcasters self-publishing in obscurity – you’re “real” because you’re on radio.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Spot-On: Commercial Copy Points That Earned The Benjamins,” a FREE download. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

Liz Truss Inks Book Deal with Salem’s Regnery Publishing

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Salem Media Group announces that its book unit Regnery Publishing signs a deal with former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss that includes the publishing of her new book, Ten Years to Save the West, scheduled to be released on April 16, 2024. The press release states, “Around the world, many supposedlyim conservative political parties have been captured by the same left-wing influences that set the agenda and frame the debate in so many institutions, including the media, academia and the corporate world. Drawing on her 10 years of service in Tory governments – when she often found herself to be the only conservative in the room – the scrappy champion of limited government and individual freedom exposes the threat of the massive, unaccountable administrative state and the complacent political and corporate establishment.”

Industry News

Michael Harrison Appointed Executive Advisor to UNESCO for the UN’s Celebration of World Radio Day 2024

By Editor | by Editor

TALKERS founder and longtime radio programming pioneer Michael Harrison has been appointed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to the position of Executive Advisor for the 2024 presentation of World Radio Day (WRD), celebrated each year on February 13.

The theme of the 2024 celebration is Radio: A century informing, entertaining and educating.  

Harrison issued the following statement: “In an era marked by the dizzying speed of technological innovation and the rapid obsolescence of one shiny new platform after another, radio is beginning its second century of service as one of the most dependable and widely-utilized forms of media in the world. WRD’s mission in 2024 will be to shine a broad floodlight on radio’s remarkable past, relevant present and promise of a dynamic future. The opportunity provided by the 100-year-plus milestone of radio along with the medium’s endorsement by the United Nations begs to be trumpeted at full volume. I am honored and invigorated at this delicate time in history to be able to participate in helping to celebrate this glorious, iconic medium on a global level.”

UNESCO has posted the following statement: “For many generations, radio has remained the most far reaching, easily accessible communication medium that informs and entertains all sectors of society. While in some regions it has been used to fuel hatred, divisions and conflicts, a lot of progressive legislation and regulatory mechanisms have been passed in many countries resulting in radio that broadcasts balanced news, programs and practices independent journalism in general.”

The statement continues: “Over the years radio practitioners have received training to improve their professionalism and adapt to changing editorial and ethical demands as well as technological developments especially radio’s incorporation into new popular digital platforms. Increasing access to reliable information and reaching audiences in remotest parts of countries in different languages, regardless of literacy levels, have been some of the greatest attributes of radio, still to be surpassed by any other media.”

Every year, UNESCO offers radios stations copyright-free material and suggests some ideas that radio stations could include following the annual themes decided by the WRD Committee, such as special radio shows and audios, open house, broadcast exchanges and increased listener interaction, among others.  Harrison will play a key role in facilitating these processes for 2024.

While UNESCO coordinates World Radio Day activities at a global level, UN member countries, through their radio stations and media stakeholders, celebrate the day in a variety of ways they see fit, including offerings of some optional 13 program ideas offered by UNESCO, information, news, audio and video resources every year.

Harrison will be reaching out to radio industry leaders worldwide to, as he says, “Do our best to raise awareness of radio’s ongoing importance and value and help the broader industry achieve that worthy goal, integrating into the new technology and social norms of this remarkable new era.”

Industry News

The Tavis Smiley Show Now Heard in Chicago and Philadelphia

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The national syndication effort of the “Tavis Smiley” talk radio program accelerates with WVON, Chicago and WURD, Philadelphia adding the program to their lineups. Based at SmileyAudioMedia, Inc’s “unapologetically progressive” urban talk KBLA, Los Angeles, the program was recently put into syndication on Equity Media LLC’s talk WBOK, New Orleans. SmileyAudioMedia says WURD beganim airing the program yesterday (9/11) and WVON starts on October 2. Additional networks and stations picking up the “Tavis Smiley” show this month include the “We Believe Radio” network in Mississippi and its affiliates. Smiley says, “In little more than a month, our radio show is now heard in three of the nation’s top five markets. We’re excited that more of America now has access to our innovative and empowering programming with groundbreaking and exclusive conversations. Our rapid expansion is filling a void for African American and progressive listeners in a growing number of markets throughout the United States during this critical presidential election season.” WURD Radio CEO Sara M. Lomax comments, im“WURD Radio is excited to bring the ‘Tavis Smiley’ show to our listeners in Philadelphia and beyond. Tavis brings a powerful mix of dynamic interviews, pointed social and political commentary and a roster of A-list guests. He is a welcome addition to WURD’s lineup of progressive Black talk programming. Our listeners will be informed, entertained and enlightened by the insightful conversations with notable and influential figures Tavis hosts on his program every day.” WVON chief Melody Spann Cooper says, “We’re excited about Tavis’ return to Chicago radio. He has had a long association with WVON. His show is a perfect fit to offer a national perspective on Black America.” Tavis Smiley recently received the coveted “Freedom of Speech Award” at the Talkers 2023 conference held on June 2, 2023.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: “You are about to enter another dimension,” The Radio Zone

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imMany news/talk stations broker weekend hours to professionals who host ask-the-expert shows to attract new clients.

AND IT WORKS…IF…the show (for lack of a more diplomatic way to say this) doesn’t suck. And if it isn’t a well-kept secret available only to those listening in real-time. Make it the hub of a broadcast/podcast/social media strategy. In some markets where I don’t have a client station, I work directly with weekenders, setting-up the workflow for that strategy; and coaching the hosts, because their stations don’t.

But don’t take my word for it. I asked ChatGPT: “In the style of Rod Serling, explain how attorneys, real estate agents, and financial advisors can attract new clients by hosting ask-the-expert radio call-in shows.” MOMENTS later, the robot replied…

“You’re about to embark on a journey where the boundaries of expertise and the airwaves blur, a place where the seekers of knowledge and the purveyors of guidance converge. Welcome, dear listener, to the realm of the ask-the-expert radio call-in show. In this enigmatic space, attorneys, real estate agents, and financial advisors have found a conduit to attract new clients unlike any other.

Picture, if you will, an attorney stepping into the radio spotlight

 The air is charged with anticipation as listeners dial in with their legal queries. With a voice as authoritative as the gavel’s echo, the attorney navigates the complexities of the law, unraveling legal mysteries for all to hear. As each answer resonates through the airwaves, trust is built, and seekers of legal counsel find themselves drawn to this beacon of clarity. The attorney has become not only a voice but a guide, attracting clients who yearn for someone to navigate their legal twilight zone.

im

And now, shift your gaze to the real estate agent who steps into the radio’s embrace

 The lines are buzzing with questions about the labyrinthine world of property transactions. With each response, the agent paints a picture of market trends, property values, and the elusive art of negotiation. As the agent’s insights cascade through the radio waves, an aura of expertise takes shape. Those yearning for a steady hand to navigate the winding corridors of real estate find solace in the agent’s voice. The agent has transformed into a beacon, attracting clients who seek someone to illuminate the path to their real estate dreams.

Finally, consider the financial advisor entering the radio’s sphere

 The lines light up with inquiries about investments, retirement, and securing financial futures. With a voice as reassuring as a well-balanced portfolio, the advisor deciphers the complexities of financial planning. Each word uttered becomes a thread in the tapestry of financial security. Listeners, entranced by the advisor’s insights, recognize a sage who can guide them through the tumultuous sea of monetary choices. The financial advisor becomes a lighthouse, attracting clients who crave a steady hand to navigate their financial voyage.

In this realm of radio airwaves, where seekers become callers and experts become guides, attorneys, real estate agents, and financial advisors have discovered a conduit to attract new clients. As their voices resonate with wisdom and authority, as their advice slices through the enigma of their fields, a bond of trust is forged. These experts, illuminated by the radio’s glow, become beacons in the darkness, attracting clients who yearn for guidance in the vast twilight zones of law, real estate, and finance. And so, dear listener, the call-in show becomes not just a program but a nexus where seekers and guides converge, bridging the gaps between knowledge and curiosity, between questions and answers. Welcome to the radio’s embrace, where the experts illuminate the unknown, one call at a time.”

Cue the music.

Next week here: “Why not just podcast?”

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Spot-On: Commercial Copy Points That Earned The Benjamins,” a FREE download; and “Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

SiriusXM and Megyn Kelly Agree to New, Multi-Year Deal

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

SiriusXM announces that talk media personality Megyn Kelly signs a new contract to continue hosting “The Megyn Kelly Show” live on the platform. SiriusXM says, “Under the multi-year deal, the veteran journalist and legal expert will deliver her signature commentary and hard-hitting interviews through theim 2024 election season and beyond. ‘The Megyn Kelly Show’ will premiere exclusively on SiriusXM Triumph channel 111 on weekdays from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm ET, with the program later available on all major podcast platforms. The program will also air a special edition on September 14 when Kelly interviews former President Donald Trump. Kelly comments, “I’m thrilled to continue my relationship with the great people at SiriusXM who have been tremendously supportive of our show from the start. In an age where conversations are being stifled and news skewed to please the politics of only a small set of people, it is a privilege to work with a company that values free speech and open, respectful, elevated debate.”

Industry News

Larry O’Connor’s Over the Top Media to Produce Fisher House Shows

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Fisher House Foundation announces that Larry O’Connor of Over the Top Media is taking over production of the foundation’s talk radio program, “The Fisher House Story,” that is made available to talkim radio stations for free to air around holidays including Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Veterans Day, as well as year-round programs. The Fisher House imFoundation is a non-profit that provides housing for families of patients receiving care at major military and VA medical centers so they can be near their loved ones. O’Connor, who hosts the morning drive program at Cumulus Media’s news/talk WMAL-FM, Washington, has hosted the show in the past. Fisher House says, “This informational talk show will inspire listeners through stories of amazing service members, veterans, and their families. Producer and host Larry O’Connor’s love and respect for our military will only amplify these radio specials.”

Industry Views

Talk Host Rick Smith is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Maverick talk show host, Rick Smith is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Ranked by TALKERS at number 100 on the journal’s Heavy Hundred list, Smith – who has positioned himself as a tell-it-like-it is champion of the working class – is described by Michael Harrison as “somewhat of a square peg in a scene dominated by round holes on both the left and the right.” The Chicago-based genre-bender is a 30-year Teamster trucker-turned-working-class talker heard 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm ET on dozens of radio stations across the U.S. – a mix of commercial and public. He tells Harrison, “I’m not a red hat, I’m not a blue hat… I’m a hard hat.” His left-of-center talk media footprint is enhanced by exposure on a variety of cable TV channels including Free Speech TV, DirecTV, Dish and more. He has a successful podcast with millions of downloads, and he streams on Facebook, X, Twitch and YouTube. All this is accomplished with a modest, independent operation run by two people and a homemade studio. His show’s slogan is “Where working people come to talk.” Listen to the podcast in its entirety here.

Industry News

RAB Webinar to Present “Radio Drives Brand Conversations” Study

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The RAB announces that it will present a webinar next Wednesday (9/13) at 1:00 pm ET to reveal the results of the study it commissioned in collaboration with Engagement Labs titled, “Radio Drives Brand Conversations: Unveiling the Untapped Potential of Radio Conversations” that “uncovers the extraordinary impact of radio on purchase intent, societal discourse and the bottom line for advertiser brand goals.”im Some of the key findings of the study include: 1) Heavy radio listeners engage in a staggering 4.7 billion weekly brand conversations, outpacing heavy users of other media channels, including TV, social media, magazines and newspapers; 2) The study underscores for advertisers’ radio’s dominance across 15 business categories, including sports, financial services, technology and more; 3) A staggering 51% of brand conversations among heavy radio listeners result in an intent to purchase, surpassing the national average of 49%. This remarkable impact is particularly pronounced in sectors like automotive, sports, telecom, technology, beverages and healthcare. RAB CEO Erica Farber states, “Radio is often referred to as the original social medium because of its ability to engage listeners through conversation, entertainment and information. This study underscores radio’s ability to drive word of mouth brand conversations for advertising partners, more so than any other media.” The webinar is free for RAB members. Register for the webinar here.

Industry News

Webinar: New Rules of Podcasting on YouTube

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Steven Goldstein’s Amplifi Media and Coleman Insights’ Jay Nachlis are presenting a free 30-minute webinar today (9/7) at 2:00 pm ET that addresses what Goldstein calls “truly an important shift taking place in podcasting right now that affects how your podcast will be found. YouTube is now the top destination for podcast listening and discovery. The impact is significant in a variety of ways.” Goldstein says today’s webinar “will show you how people are using YouTube and offer seven key insights on how to maximize your podcast’s exposure in a sea of content.” The link for the webinar is here.

Industry News

Ramsey Solutions Presents Livestream to Combat Student Debt

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Next Tuesday (9/12), Ramsey Solutions presents a free livestream program titled, “Student Loan Debt in America: How We Got Here and How We Get Out” at 8:00 pm ET. Nationally syndicated radio host and bestselling author Dave Ramsey and “The Ramsey Show” co-hosts Rachel Cruze and Jade Warshaw will offer insights to make student loan repayments easier and more manageable. Ramsey says, “We want everyone in America who is scared and feeling the burden of student loan debt payments to know there’s hope. You can get through this. Making a plan now, and preparing for these payments to resume, will help you feel less anxious and more confident. And we’re here to walk you through it. In the process, you’ll learn how to better handle your finances now and in the future.” You can register for and watch the livestream here.

Industry News

MIW to Present Behind the Mic Webinar

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc announces the first in the “Tools of the Trade” webinarim series titled, “Behind the Mic,” that features radio personalities Angela Yee, Dana Cortez, and Patty Steele. The webinar takes place on Wednesday, September 20 at 2:00 pm ET. MIW board president Ruth Presslaff comments, “MIW is proud to announce this free ‘Tools of the Trade: Behind the Mic’ webinar focused on the women who have blazed trails as on-air personalities and are integral members of their communities.” Register for the webinar here.

Ratings Takeaways

August 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

imAugust 2023 PPM Data – Information for the August 2023 sweep has been released for Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis.

Nielsen Audio’s August 2023 sweep covered July 20 – August 16.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are July 2023 – August 2023 (6+).

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” steady at 3.5, ninth to seventh

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 9.1 – 9.3, +.2, anchored in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” (Nationals) 2.4 – 2.6, +.2, repeats at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU unchanged at 11.6, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, 21st month in succession, flat at 11.6

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: classic rock WBIG (+.5)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian WGTS (-1.3) 

BOSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” 3.4 – 3.5, +.1, #13 to #12

News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” 4.5 – 4.2, -.3, seventh to eighth

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” 4.9 – 5.6, +.7, fifth to third

Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” (Red Sox) 3.5 – 3.7, +.2 #12 to #11

Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 6.1 – 5.6, -.5, second to third

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.8 – 3.9, +.1, #11 to #10

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR, third month in succession, 6.2 – 6.5, +.3

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: country WBWL (+1.1)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult hits WBGB (-1.0)

MIAMI

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board-owned WLRN 3.6 – 3.9, +.3, tenth to eighth

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group urban AC WHQT, sixth straight month, 8.0 – 7.9, -.1

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLYF and country WKIS (+.7)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WFEZ (-1.1)

SEATTLE

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” 4.9 – 4.7, -.2, fifth to seventh

News: Lotus Communications-owned KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM “Northwest News Radio” 2.3 – 2.0, -.3, #17 to #19

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” (Mariners) 4.0 – 4.7, +.7, ninth to seventh

iHeartMedia’s KJR-FM “93.3 FM Seattle’s Sports Leader” 1.6 – 2.4, +.8, #22 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio-owned KUOW 4.5 – 6.8, +2.3, seventh to second

Number One 6+: Audacy country KKWF, third straight month, 7.7 – 7.9, +.2

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk KUOW (+2.3)*

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: rhythmic hot AC KHTP (-1.1)

*Represents the largest July 2023 – August 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 – and the previous 12 – PPM-markets  

DETROIT

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 2.1 – 1.9, -.2, #17 to #16

News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” 3.9 – 4.0, +.1, #10 to #11

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Tigers) 6.7 – 7.2, +.5, third to second

WXYT-FM’s internet stream 1.8 – 1.3, -.5, #18 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 1.7 – 1.6, -.1, #19 to #17

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia CHR WKQI, third successive month, 9.6 – 9.2, -.4

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: country WYCD (+1.5)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: country WDRQ (-1.4)

PHOENIX

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” 2.9 – 3.9, +1.0, #13 to #10

Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” 2.7 – 3.0, +.3, repeats at #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College-owned KJZZ 6.5 – 4.1, -2.4, second to seventh

Number One 6+: Hubbard classic rock KSLX, third consecutive month, 7.8 – 7.6, -.2

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: news/talk KFYI and rock KUPD (+1.0)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk KJZZ (-2.4)**

**Represents the largest July 2023 – August 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” (Minnesota Twins) flat at 3.5, #13 to #14

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KTMY “My Talk 107.1” 2.3 – 2.2, -.1, continues at #16

iHeartMedia’s KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” unchanged at 1.3, repeats at #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” 3.8 – 4.8, +1.0, #12 to #9

Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW 6.7 – 6.2, -.5, stays in fourth-place

KNOW’s internet stream 1.2, #20 (unlisted in July 2023)

Number One 6+: Northwestern Media contemporary Christian KTIS-FM, fifth consecutive month, 11.6 – 10.7, -.9

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: sports talk KFXN (+1.0)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian KTIS-FM (-.9)

SAN DIEGO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” 4.6 – 4.7, +.1, eighth to seventh

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” (Padres), 5.0 – 4.9, -.1, fifth to sixth

Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 5.2 – 5.8, +.6, fourth to third

Number One 6+: Local Media San Diego rhythmic hot AC XHRM, first month, 6.9 – 6.6, -.3

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: regional Mexican KLNV (+1.1)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KYXY (-1.1)

TAMPA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” steady at 5.2, sixth to fifth

iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” 4.1 – 4.3, +.2, tenth to eighth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” (Rays) 1.3 – 1.8, +.5 #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 2.7 – 2.2, -.5, #15 to #19

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, 25th month in a row, 8.1 – 7.8, -.3

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: hot AC WMTX (+.8)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian WCIE (-1.1)

DENVER

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOA “News Radio 850” (Colorado Rockies) 2.8 – 2.7, -.1, repeats at #16

KOA cluster-mate KDFD “Freedom 93.7” 1.9 – 2.0, +.1, #19 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” 2.7 – 3.8, +1.1, #17 to #11

KSE Radio Ventures’ KKSE-FM “Altitude Sports Radio 92.5” 1.8 – 2.1, +.3, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 3.7 – 4.0, +.3, #11 to #10

Number One 6+: Bonneville country KYGO, first month, 6.1 – 6.6, +.5

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: sports talk KKFN (+1.1)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: classic rock KQMT (-1.3)

BALTIMORE

News/Talk: Hearst Television’s WBAL “News Radio 1090 AM & 101.5 FM” (Orioles) 3.5 – 3.2, -.3, locked at #12

WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” 1.2 – 1.5, +.3, #19 to #18

News: Audacy-owned business news WDCH “Bloomberg 99.1 FM” 1.0 – 1.4, +.4, #21 to #19

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” 3.8 – 4.4, +.6, tenth to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 4.3 – 4.4, +.1, repeats in eighth-place

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult hits WQSR, first month, unchanged at 6.7

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: sports talk WJZ-FM and urban AC WWIN-FM (+.6)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: classical WBJC (-.8)

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” (Cardinals) 5.5 – 5.9, +.4, eighth to sixth

KMOX cluster-mate KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, #15 to #16

iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-FM “104.9 The Patriot” .7 – .9, +.2, #21 to #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” 1.7 – 2.4, +.7, #16 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 3.9 – 3.6, -.3, repeats at #12

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting adult hits WARH, eighth month in a row, 11.4 – 10.3, -1.1

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Increase: sports talk WXOS (+.7)

Largest 6+ July 2023 – August 2023 Decrease: country WIL (-1.4)

Up next: August 2023 overviews for Portland; Charlotte; San Antonio; Sacramento; Pittsburgh; Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Orlando; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Kansas City; and Columbus.

 Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry News

Yesterday’s (8/30) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The legal battles facing former President Donald Trump and his co-defendants; the New Hampshire GOP debates the legal theory that Trump cannot run for office under the 14th Amendment; the 2023 presidential race; the Hunter Biden investigation; concern about Mitch McConnell’s health as he freezes during a press conference; and Hurricane Idalia slams Florida, Georgia and South Carolina were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Improving Results from Endorsement Spots

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imThe stations I work with make big money with live endorsement spots delivered by familiar local on-air personalities. Remember them? With most AM/FM broadcast hours now robotic or non-local, your relationship with the listener is precious and can be leveraged… carefully.

Quality vs. Quantity

The more products or services you endorse, the less special each pitch will be. You’re asking the listener’s trust each time, so asking too often can sound insincere. So back-to-back “I’m [name] for [account]” is verboten, and that can happen when spots you voice air outside your show.

 “Tell me a story”

 When the late, great Don Hewitt – the father of “60 Minutes” – spoke at a NAB convention years ago, he told us that he was often asked, “Why is this the most successful TV news show of all time?” And he said, “I can tell you in four words: ‘Tell me a story,’” which every piece did.

Describe your personal experience with the advertiser’s product or service in before-and-after fashion – problem was, problem solved – in a relatable way.

im

 OOPS!  Do you say, “I haven’t sold you yet?”

Often, these are long-standing advertiser relationships.  Two cautions:

If you’ve been touting an advertiser for a while, DON’T say so. “For years, I’ve been telling you about [name of business]” = “…and I haven’t sold you yet, have I?” Instead, keep the pitch fresh.

And keep it customer-centric rather than talking about a store. In one spot I heard, for a sewing supply retailer, the well-intentioned host sounded awestruck as he recited the store’s inventory (“over fifteen hundred bolts of fabric!”). That’s the store’s problem. Instead, solve the listener’s problem: “Imagine the money you could save if you made all your kids’ back-to-school clothes this year?  [advertiser] will give you free lessons!”

Avoid saying…

 “MY GOOD FRIENDS AT [name of business],” which sounds phony.

“All-new:” Say “new,” if it IS new, AND if newness is a listener benefit (and say why).

“…AND MUCH MORE,” which means nothing. Weed-out stuff like this, and you’ll give copy more time to breathe.

“Needs,” as in: “FOR ALL YOUR [product category] NEEDS” (the ultimate “BLAH, BLAH, BLAH”).

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Spot-On: Commercial Copy Points That Earned The Benjamins,” a FREE download; and “Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

Charlamagne Tha God Hosts Third Annual Mental Wealth Expo

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

iHeartMedia personality Charlamagne Tha God, in partnership with Mental Wealth Alliance is celebrating World Mental Health Day by hosting the third annual Mental Wealth Expo on October 7 at the Marriott Marquis inim Times Square, New York City. Attendees will hear from experts on everything mental health, panels, live podcasting, and breakout rooms including the podcast “MEternal,” that addresses the complexities of the Black maternal health crisis. Charlamagne Tha God says, “The Mental Wealth Expo was created for anyone who knows they need to start on their healing journey, but don’t know the first place to begin. It’s a day for folks to get exposed to mental health experts and resources that can get them on the right path and they get to receive this information for free! It is truly a blessing to be able to do this for a third consecutive year.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Red Apple Audio Networks says it’s now affiliated with 214 stations since its launch 18 months ago and its programming is heard in 15 of the top 25 DMAs, including its flagship 77 WABC, New York.

Dick Broadcasting transitions WRNS-AM, Greenville, North Carolina to a sports betting format using content from VSiN, The Sports Betting Network. The station is being rebranded “Bet on the Bull 960 AM.”

OutKick will host a one-hour special titled, “OutKick on Fox,” that will air Sunday (8/27) at 10:00 pm ET on FOX News Channel. OutKick founder Clay Travis and hosts Tomi Lahren and Charly Arnolt will “provide their unfiltered opinions on sports, culture, and the topics Americans are talking about right now.” Special guests will include Riley Gaines, host of the “Gaines for Girls” podcast on OutKick, OutKick.com columnist Mary Katherine Ham, and former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom.

Zimmer Midwest Communications announces listeners to its Springfield, Missouri stations – including news/talk KWTO, raised a record $38,770 during the 12-hour Honor Flight of the Ozarks Radiothon on August 18. Money raised from the radiothon goes directly to send local veterans to Washington, DC on honor flight missions to visit the World War II, Korean and Vietnam War Memorials, the Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps Memorials, and many others.

The Premiere Networks syndicated “Dan Patrick Show” is broadcasting live from Ireland for the Aer Lingus College Football Classic featuring the University of Notre Dame vs. the United States Naval Academy game at Aviva Stadium on Saturday (8/26). “The Dan Patrick Show” will originate from 9 College Green in the Temple Bar district of Dublin tomorrow through Friday. The Dan Patrick crew will also be joined by actor Will Ferrell.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Embrace “Car Radio”

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imAs this week’s first Republican presidential debate looms, my FOX News Radio-affiliated client stations are irked. Thanks to their network, they’re carrying it live, and locally sponsored, and promo-ing it aplenty. A couple of my clients will travel to Milwaukee to wrap pre- and post-game color around the play-by-play. So, yuh, they’re irked.

Listen somewhere else

 FOX News Radio newscasts invite listeners to hear the debate live, at FoxNewsRadio.com. Hello?

I talked one client down-off-the-ledge, by reminding him that anyone who wants to watch the debate, and can, will. And that anyone who’s driving cannot and won’t likely drive distractedly-enough to somehow stream it from a website in-car.

For decades, I’ve scripted promos for events like this, and the Super Bowl and World Series, by offering that “if you’ll be in the car tonight,” and/or “if you can’t be near TV,” and/or “if you’ll be at work,” we’ve got it on radio.

Hey, if I was FOX News Radio, I’d do the same thing. But when one client called to complain and asked “could you at least add ‘…and many of these FOX News Radio stations?’” he was told they’d run-it-up-the-flagpole.

im

It could be worse. You’re not a TV station.

THEY should be livid, as NBC uses affiliates’ air to say watch Peacock. Channel-surf, and you will be lured to Paramount+ or Discovery+ or Disney+.

And this didn’t happen overnight, as I demonstrated several years ago in a TV report about the TV switch-pitch (https://youtu.be/2o3CpTz66JY).

So, embrace radio’s preeminence in-car, and not just when plugging special coverage. Program and promote everything as though you’re talking to busy people behind the wheel. Nobody sitting stiller will feel rushed.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Spot-On: Commercial Copy Points That Earned The Benjamins,” a FREE download; and “Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry Views

Pending Business: TV Knows Best

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

imBulletin: “Linear TV” is no longer the winner.

Linear TV is tech talk for combining over the air and cable TV, and according to Nielsen, July 2023 was the first-time streaming TV was the winner, as streaming captured most TV viewing.

From Netflix to YouTube, we are watching more content on streaming channels than linear TV. You have read about the resurgence in “Suits,” the legal drama that originally aired 2011-2019 and is now drawing 18 billion minutes of viewing on Netflix. Whether those 18 billion minutes are part Meghan Markle curiosity or part writers’ strike, does not matter. Those 18 billion minutes of viewing helped drive streaming viewership to an all-time high. Maybe streaming grabbed a page from that old radio handbook that starts with “Content is King.”

But the companies controlling the streaming ad-free experience on Netflix, Disney, Hulu, etc. seized the opportunity and raised rates. Soon, it will cost you more every month to watch your favorite content ad-free.

Wait a minute! Did I just say the ad-free experience as in commercial free or no interruptions? Did the streaming guys just take another page from the well-worn radio programming handbook and turn the commercial-free model upside down to increase income? Streaming channels will deliver commercial free programming and charge you anywhere from $13.99- $21.99 a month as the fees double and triple depending on when you started your subscription.

How about our friends at Amazon Prime jumping on “Thursday Night Football,” or Apple and Peacock pushing baseball? Do not forget the YouTube NFL packages starting at $250. No, this is not a veiled plug for paid programming, nor is it a critique of the value propositions offered in the streaming world. Time for a long look in the mirror:

— The commercial-free experience began when radio programmers dropped the commercials, programmed longer, commercial-free segments to drive listenership and ratings up. In the short term it worked. My hand is in the air, guilty as charged. Maybe I was one of the lone radio management voices who asked, “Then what, run the spots and drive the audience away? Are we sending the wrong message?” We were dumb. After commercial free came rates, packages, and promotions. None of us said, “Raise the rates when the commercial-free stops!” The streaming guys got it right – just raise the rates.

— There is no older radio programming mantra than “Content is King.” You can name the iconic talents with one word, Howard, Rush, Imus, yet major radio organizations struggle as they search for great, soon-to-be iconic talent. It is faster, easier, and more lucrative to become a Tik-Tok, YouTube, or Instagram star.

These are all just examples of how radio was first in and stopped innovating. There is some good news on the horizon. Facebook is stepping back from the news business as news organizations ban together and ask for compensation. This could be the first chink in Facebook’s 113-billion-dollar ad armor. Maybe not. Either way, the old school top-of-the-hour newscast, or large market all-news radio should be re-imagined, opening the door to the next generation of innovators.

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

Pending Business: Nobody Cut Their Way to the Top

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

EDITORS NOTE:  In addition to conveying a powerful message, the article below by industry expert, consultant and TALKERS contributor Steve Lapa contains a tremendous limited-time opportunity for the readers of this publication to partake in a free offer to receive a valuable radio sales support tool.  We strongly suggest that readers involved in any way with radio sales read this article and take advantage of Steve Lapa’s offer at the end of the piece.    

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

imRadio station personnel could be facing the worst environment – ever!

Endless bankruptcy headlines. Painful personnel cuts. Soaring retail prices. A number of radio companies are struggling, preparing for the worst and there is no cavalry in sight. No matter where we start sorting through the current tsunami of problems, every solution typically ends up in the same place: more income.

I could never understand why we don’t just cut to the chase. It would be a lot more efficient and a lot less painful if we all agreed on one premise – nobody cut their way to the top. Cost conscious, attention to expense detail and planned expansion is one thing… however destroying motivation, morale, passion and attraction for the radio business is fatal. Yet we continue to repeat the same mistakes. What do they say about doing the same thing over and over and hoping for a different outcome?

Imagine if you invented the medium today. Simple advertiser pitch: reach 83-90% of the US population for a CPM lower than your favorite Starbucks drink. Yet, radio still has the never-ending low man on the electronic media totem pole advertising image. Consider all those direct response advertisers who started on radio and “graduate” to TV. Where were the radio sellers partnered with creators focused on performance? It’s a mess, I know. What does it take to power through a mess like the one we are in now? How do we come out the other side generating income for our companies, our families, and ourselves?

Start by looking in the mirror. Re-commit to getting your skills razor sharp and get your focus laser targeted. If you are a seller, manager or owner, re-educate yourself. If you are on the programming or on-air side, passionate about your content, help your sellers and managers. Time to learn the skills necessary to help your team and yourself at the same time. The radio business is becoming so undervalued and distressed, beaten down by too much debt and not enough disciplined, strategic thinking.

Let me step up. I AM WILLING  to share my 40+ years of proven sales and management performance system with you for FREE. No risk, no exchange of dollars, because if we do not fix the radio problem NOW, we all go down together. Radio companies are preparing for the worst. Stop waiting, stop hoping. Go to https://3MinutePlanner.com and take advantage of my offer to help. Sellers, managers, owners, new-think programmers and talents, time to mount up and join the radio cavalry!

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: Entitled? Or Enabling?

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imThose are the two consultant buzzwords that hosts I coach are hearing in their sleep. And a couple more “E” words: Empathy and Empower.

“The Greatest Generation” led the way

My dad spent 3+ years half a world away during World War II and when he and the rest of “our boys” came marching home, the world we grew up in was set in motion. After all the sacrifices those years asked, life was good again, better than ever for my parents, children of the Great Depression.

Our grandfatherly president – a war hero general – built us an Interstate Highway System, and Dinah Shore sang, “See the USA in a Chevrolet.” The G.I. Bill helped vets through college, and low-interest mortgages fueled a housing boom. Life was good in the leafy cul de sac, where 78.3 million people my age were born. 65-some million of us are still around, wearing progressive lenses and comfortable shoes, insured by Medicare and collecting Social Security.

im

Now, it’s our turn

Like that two-front war we survived in the 1940s, we are again doubly challenged.

  • COVID knocked the world off-balance. Those now indignantly second-guessing a better-safe-than-sorry shutdown don’t seem to recall freezer trucks as makeshift morgues. We chuckle as Zoom tells workers to come back to the office, but labor unions are flexing their muscle in this full employment economy. That’ll happen when a virus subtracts a million Americans WHILE Boomers retire, and others reassess and subsist on the gig economy. The New Normal isn’t.
  • Anger as the new joy. And it’s not all Trump’s fault. He didn’t invent grievance and resentment. He just made it popular; and soreheads one-up each other in social media that seems like consequence-free venting, until the next gun nut opens fire.

Listeners are wondering “What NEXT???”

Eggs are down, gas is up again (since last month, though down almost 20% in a year). Tornadoes, floods, scorching heat, baseball-size hail, devastating wildfires… all of which raise prices. We shoot down China’s spy balloon, and their (and Russia’s) war ships loiter off Alaska. Trump! Hunter! 2024! After all the fuss about vaccines, polio resurfaces in New York and leprosy (!) cases are rising in Florida. No wonder Barbie is breaking box office records.

Is the appeal of solutions not obvious? More useful than argument? While everyone is coping, are we offering noise? Or news-you-can-use?

I’m cautioning any talker willing to listen… to listen. “Enabling” dialogue is the-opposite-of “entitled” monologue. Empower listeners, by letting them weigh-in. Empower them with access to guests whose advice they value. Three-way talk like that enables them (and enables them to quote you).

Your empathy is a gift.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Spot-On: Commercial Copy Points That Earned The Benjamins,” a FREE download; and “Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry Views

ENOUGH! The Selling Culture Has Failed Radio

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Walter Sabo
Consultant, Sabo Media
A.K.A. Walter Sterling
Radio Host, Sterling On Sunday
Talk Media Network

The creeping culture of sales-determines-all has brought the industry to this moment of despair. The selling culture has failed the medium. It is time to, once again, segregate the sales and programming departments. Take the budgets away from the program directors and inspire them to create exciting UNPREDICTABLE programming.

Earnings calls for most radio companies were held this week. Not pretty. Declarations of the demise of radio are constant, emotional, and desperate. Bleak conditions in the radio industry have occurred before. A review of past crises and how they were overcome is constructive, urgent, and essential.

For example, in 1952, network TV was launched and showed signs of success. NBC, ABC, and CBS moved their money from radio to TV. Longform radio shows were cancelled leaving stations across the country with a problem. At the time, most radio stations were small shops, usually family-owned, therefore the need to add hours of local programming was a financial challenge. The solution was presented by a programmer.

Todd Storz’ family owned stations in Omaha, Kansas City, Minneapolis, New Orleans, St Louis and Oklahoma City. He was young and obsessed with radio. His stations were losing money and the future, without network show blocks, was uncertain. Todd ate at a diner daily and noticed that even after it closed, the waitresses put their own money in the jukebox to hear the same songs they had heard all day. Hit after hit. Todd created a list of the top 40 songs, built a production sound and put it on his Omaha station. The station was #1 overnight. His top 40 format was aired on his owned stations with the same results.

Ruth Meyer was the program director of WMCA, New York where she established the GOOD GUYS dynasty. Before WMCA Ruth was the PD of Storz’s station in Kansas City. I asked her who did what at Storz and she said, “It was all Todd.” Todd was a programmer who never spent a day in sales. Storz’s programming idea changed and, yes, saved the industry.

When Todd died at 38 years of age his father – a businessman – took over the company. After Todd’s death, the stations died too. Why? Storz station manager Deane Johnson explained, “Todd’s death [and the control of the radio stations falling to Todd’s father] brought about a shift from a ‘programming company’ to a ‘money company.’”

Radio’s next challenge was FM. It is a popular myth that the shift from AM listening to FM was driven by the higher quality of the FM signal. FM’s signal had been available since 1948. No one listened.

You don’t go to iMAX to watch the huge, superior white screen. You go to watch a movie on the huge superior white screen. When the FCC mandated an end to AM/FM simulcasts, the general managers had no idea what to do and isn’t it time for golf?

Obsessed, very young radio fanboy programmers such as Michael Harrison and Allen Shaw joined with frustrated senior programmers like B. Mitchel Reed, Scott Muni, Murray the K and Tom Donahue to EXPERIMENT with new programming techniques. They imagined and implemented progressive rock, free-form, album rock. THEN the crowds came to FM to hear exciting UNPREDICTABLE programming.

In 1966, Tom O’Neil, the founder/chairman of RKO General owned many money-losing, major market stations. The solution? Better sellers? Better sales training? A sales master course? No. The answer was Bill Drake. O’Neil hired Bill Drake and allowed him to create exciting UNPREDICABLE programming. Drake’s programming saved many RKO stations and was copied by hundreds of stations across the country. Drake’s programming saved them, too.

ALL of radio’s challenges today can be solved with programming invented by programmers free to program. Enough with “it’s not in the budget.” Enough with “it will bring in money.” Enough with “it’s good for sales.” Enough with talent having to generate half their salary in billing to be retained. Enough!

Unleash today’s program directors to follow their instincts, their facts and no more having to check with corporate. Why? Because checking with corporate hasn’t worked. Checking with corporate stops the flow of ideas, it freezes them in time. Radio is live, in the moment. When radio programming is frozen in time it MUST fail. Give up corporate engagement. Let programmers surprise you.

To quote a mentor, ABC Radio Network’s VP Dick McCauley (a sales guy), “A great salesperson is one who has a great product.” He said it a lot.

Walter Sabo was the youngest executive vice president in the history of NBC. He was the programming consultant to RKO General longer than Bill Drake. According to a Sirius corporate EVP, “Sirius exists because of what Walter Sabo did.”  He hosts a Talk Media Network radio show as Walter M. Sterling, “Sterling on Sunday.” Find out more here: www.waltersterlingshow.com  Contact him at walter@sabomedia.com or 646.678.1110

Industry News

WTOP Names Three to News Director Roles

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Hubbard Broadcasting’s all-news WTOP-FM, Washington, DC announces that three news pros are named to news director roles for the station. Monique Hayes is promoted to AM broadcast news director; Bill McFarland joins WTOP as PM broadcast news director; and Giang Nguyen joins the station as digital news director. Hayes has been serving with the station for the past two years, most recently as assignments manager. She says, “Thisim is a great opportunity to help lead one of the best newsrooms in the area. I look forward to coaching and training future newsroom leaders and collaborating with our veteran journalists. I am excited to work with this new management team to deliver great local coverage of Washington, DC, and the surrounding communities.” McFarland comes to WTOP from NBC Boston, Telemundo Boston and New England Cable News where he was assistant news director. Nguyen recently served as a multimedia reporter in local markets in Kansas (WIBW-TV) and Illinois (WQAD-TV) as well as having worked at CNN, Radio Free Asia, NHK World and CCTV America in both reporter and assignment editor roles. WTOP director of news and programming Julie Ziegler comments, “I am so excited to have the force of Monique, Giang and Bill behind our daily newsroom operations. Having their combined talents on both the broadcast and digital sides is exactly what we need to meet our daily mission of delivering the most compelling content to our listeners and readers across all platforms.”

Ratings Takeaways

July 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

imJuly 2023 PPM Data – Information for the July 2023 sweep has been released for Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis.

Nielsen Audio’s July 2023 sweep covered June 22 – July 19.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are June 2023 – July 2023 (6+).

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 3.6 – 3.5, -.1, repeats in ninth-place

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 8.2 – 9.1, +.9, ensconced in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” (Nationals) flat at 2.4, #15 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU 11.0 – 11.6, +.6, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, 20th month in succession, 11.0 – 11.6, +.6

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WASH (+1.1)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WIAD (-.9)

BOSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” 4.1 – 3.4, -.7, #10 to #13

News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” 4.8 – 4.5, -.3, continues in seventh-place

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” 5.5 – 4.9, -.6, third to fifth

Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” (Red Sox) 3.4 – 3.5, +.1 #13 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 5.7 – 6.1, +.4, steady in the runner-up slot

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 4.0 – 3.8, -.2, anchored at #11

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR, second month in succession, 6.0 – 6.2, +.2

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult hits WBGB (+.9)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: country WKLB (-1.0)

MIAMI

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board-owned WLRN 3.7 – 3.6, -.1, repeats in tenth-place

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group urban AC WHQT, fifth straight month, 8.9 – 8.0, -.9 and co-owned adult contemporary WFEZ, first month, 7.9 – 8.0, +.1

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: Spanish contemporary WAMR (+.9)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: urban AC WHQT (-.9)

SEATTLE

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” 4.3 – 4.9, +.6, ninth to fifth

Lotus Communications’ KVI “Talk Radio 570” 1.6 – 1.9, +.3, #22 to #19

News: Lotus Communications-owned KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM “Northwest News Radio” 2.6 – 2.3, -.3, #16 to #17

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” (Mariners) 4.6 – 4.0, -.6, seventh to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio-owned KUOW 5.6 – 4.5, -1.1, fourth to seventh

Number One 6+: Audacy country KKWF, second straight month, 7.4 – 7.7, +.3

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KSWD (+.9)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk KUOW (-1.1) 

DETROIT

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 1.9 – 2.1, +.2, remains at #17

News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” 3.5 – 3.9, +.4, steady at #10

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Tigers) 7.0 – 6.7, -.3, continues in third-place

WXYT-FM’s internet stream 1.7 – 1.8, +.1, #20 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 1.8 – 1.7, -.1, #18 to #19

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia CHR WKQI, second successive month, 8.1 – 9.6, +1.5

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: CHR WKQI (+1.5)*

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: classic rock WCSX (-.9)

*Represents a tie for the largest June 2023 – July 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

PHOENIX

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” 2.4 – 2.9, +.5, #17 to #13

Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” 2.4 – 2.7, +.3, #17 to #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona’s Sports Station” (Arizona Diamondbacks) 2.1 – 2.0, -.1, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College-owned KJZZ 6.3 – 6.5, +.2, third to second

Number One 6+: Hubbard classic rock KSLX, second consecutive month, 6.8 – 7.8, +1.0

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies KAZG (+1.2)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KLNZ (-1.2)

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” (Minnesota Twins) 3.2 – 3.5, +.3, remains at #13

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KTMY “My Talk 107.1” steady at 2.3, continues at #16

iHeartMedia’s KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” 1.4 – 1.3, -.1, #20 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” 4.3 – 3.8, -.5, #10 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW 5.9 – 6.7, +.8, sixth to fourth

Number One 6+: Northwestern Media contemporary Christian KTIS-FM, fourth consecutive month, 10.3 – 11.6, +1.3

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian KTIS-FM (+1.3)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: country KEEY (-.9)

SAN DIEGO 

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” 4.5 – 4.6, +.1, repeats in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” (Padres), 5.4 – 5.0, -.4, stays in fifth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 6.2 – 5.2, -1.0, second to fourth

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KXSN, sixth successive month, unchanged at 7.1

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: rhythmic hot AC XHRM (+1.3)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KLNV (-1.3)

TAMPA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” 4.9 – 5.2, +.3, repeats in sixth-place

iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” 3.1 – 4.1, +1.0, #13 to #10

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 2.6 – 2.7, +.1, #17 to #15

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, 24th month in a row, 8.8 – 8.1, -.7

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: news/talk WFLA (+1.0)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WDUV and sports talk WDAE (-.7)

DENVER

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOA “News Radio 850” (Colorado Rockies) 3.2 – 2.8, -.4, #14 to #16

KOA cluster-mate KDFD “Freedom 93.7” 1.6 – 1.9, +.3, #22 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” 3.5 – 2.7, -.8, #10 to #17

KSE Radio Ventures’ KKSE-FM “Altitude Sports Radio 92.5” 2.4 – 1.8, -.6, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 3.4 – 3.7, +.3, steady at #11

Number One 6+: Audacy classic rock KQMT, first month, 5.5 – 6.2, +.7 and KSE Radio Ventures’ classic hits-oldies KXKL, first month, 6.4 – 6.2, -.2

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian KLDV (+1.3)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: classical KVOD (-1.2)

BALTIMORE

News/Talk: Hearst Television’s WBAL “News Radio 1090 AM & 101.5 FM” (Orioles) 3.2 – 3.5, +.3, remains at #12

WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” 1.6 – 1.2, -.4, #17 to #19

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 1.0 – 1.1, +.1, stays at #20

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” 3.7 – 3.8, +.1, repeats in tenth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 3.5 – 4.3, +.8, #11 to #8

Number One 6+: Urban One urban contemporary WERQ, first month, 5.5 – 7.0, +1.5

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WERQ (+1.5)*

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: country WPOC (-1.9)**

*Represents a tie for the largest June 2023 – July 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

**Represents the largest June 2023 – July 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” (Cardinals) 5.8 – 5.5, -.3, seventh to eighth

KMOX cluster-mate KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 2.0 – 1.9, -.1, #16 to #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” 2.2 – 1.7, -.5, #15 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 3.7 – 3.9, +.2, remains at #12

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting adult hits WARH, seventh month in a row, 10.0 – 11.4, +1.4

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult hits WARH (+1.4)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: sports talk WXOS (-.5)

Up next: July 2023 overviews for Portland; Charlotte; San Antonio; Sacramento; Pittsburgh; Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Orlando; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Kansas City; and Columbus. 

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Connie Welcomes the Stranger’s Call

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imShe was the agent I enjoyed working with most over three decades I was an active real estate investor. We remain good friends, and her technique informs the work I do coaching agents – and attorneys and financial advisors and other professionals – who host ask-the-expert radio shows.

Understand the difference between “advertising” and “marketing”

Achievers like Connie do. Do you? Erroneously, these terms are often used interchangeably.

— Advertising asks shoppers to pick your product off a crowded shelf.

— Marketing makes them want to.

High-volume agents typically allocate 30% of net income to marketing, which produces leads. Lower-volume agents spend as much, or more, on advertising, which produces fewer leads. If you’re handing out mouse pads in the era of iPad, you’re late.

And you’re bucking human nature: Every…single…day, we are bombarded by SO many advertising pitches, that we lean-back-from commercials. But we lean-into storytelling, when the story hits home. One of the few things that can keep someone sitting in a parked car with the key on Accessories is the on-air attorney untangling the caller’s dilemma when it is REAL relatable.

im

“Can you recommend a plumber?”

The caller isn’t Connie’s client…yet. The stranger got her name from someone else Connie had helped. Reputation. Word-of-mouth. “Got a pen?” she asks. “I’m going to give you his cell number. And let me know if he can’t help you and I’ll recommend someone else who’s helped me lately.” THAT is marketing GOLD. Instant relationship.

As is the attorney whose weekend call-in show offers that “the lawyer is in, the meter is off.” One that I coached offers words-to-live-by: “If you want someone to think you can help them, help them.”

Expensive syndicated TV spots – or hokey locally produced ads – and look-alike billboards – all blur-together in a wall of noise. As do agents’ radio copy that “If I can’t sell your house, I’LL buy it!” and attorneys hedging that “If we don’t win, you don’t pay.”

Yes, advertise. But rather than squandering that airtime touting yourself, do a commercial disguised as an informative feature, snack-size how-to guidance. And offer more-about-that in a free download checklist or podcast or other asset on your memorable domain name website. Or “Ask me!” by calling your memorable phone number. Tell ‘em, rather than just trying to sell ‘em, and you’ll sell more of ‘em.

Big-spending competitors look alike. You can sound different.

It’s the oldest, most-proven concept in marketing: Free samples, of your expertise and comforting counsel. Your trusted voice can differentiate you. Done right, these shows have callers asking, “May I call you at the office on Monday?” even before the host invites them to. BUT…

In too many cases, that weekend show is a well-kept secret, under-promoted by the station, and only available in real-time…UNLESS…the radio show is just one element of a coordinated interactive multi-platform strategy, which harvests and addresses your prospects’ relatable concerns via podcast, social media, email, those commercials I describe above, and a voicemail tactic SO obvious that few spot the opportunity.

Lots of work? You bet! An organized production routine is key. Find a producer – a Robin to your Batman – who can keep that conveyor belt humming, and he or she is every bit the hero as Connie’s plumber.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Spot-On: Commercial Copy Points That Earned The Benjamins,” a FREE download; and “Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Do You Still Have the Dream?

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imFellow longtime, long-ago DJs: You know what I’m talking about. And it’s a life sentence, eh?

Like The Manchurian Candidate…or Jason Bourne…we share a recurring nightmare. But in our case, the dread is fear of dead air.

You’re on-air, alone in the building, late at night, as studio equipment starts failing, one device at a time. Then the phone.

Computers? I was of the vinyl and tape era, but if you jocked later on, that early Scott Studios screen locks-up. As does the other computer. So, you can’t just…read things.

im

 

The only thing that works is the microphone. And as you vamp, desperately…the reverb seems to be getting deeper…

It could be worse. You’re not on TV.

As one of our colleagues recommended here a couple weeks ago: “Prep like the phone is broken.”

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Spot-On: Commercial Copy Points That Earned The Benjamins,” a FREE download; and the E-book and FREE on-air radio features “Inflation Hacks: Save Those Benjamins;” and Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Job Opportunity

FOX News Media Seeks Radio Announcer and Associate Producer/Writer

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

FOX News is looking for a Freelance Radio Anchor to join the FOX News Audio family as on-air talent for FOXim News Radio Network/FOX News Headlines 24/7 SiriusXM Channel 115. As the Freelance Radio Anchor, you will work under tight deadlines and deliver top-notch newscasts. You have a passion for breaking news and the flexibility to work on a day’s notice. See more and apply here.

FOX News Audio is looking for a motivated and creative Associate Producer/Writer. As an Associate Producer/Writer, you will write compelling and conversational copy on a wide variety of news topics. You have exceptional scriptwriting skills and impeccable grammar. Your news judgment is exemplary, and you have knowledge of and passion for current events and politics. You will need to work well under constant deadline pressure. The news content will be written and produced for our terrestrial syndication affiliates, affiliate website, digital audio streams and smart speaker platforms, and in addition on FOX News Headlines 24/7 platforms on SXM Radio. See more and apply here.

Industry Views

Pending Business: Pulling the Rug Out from Under

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

imWhen was the last time you went shopping for a quality living room rug? Not an oriental, because that is just too easy. We’re talking high quality living room rug that will blend in and stand the test of time… and the dog. Next to fighting with a credit card company, it’s the worst shopping experience ever.

Try this at home when you have nothing better to do. Chances are you want to find the rug of your dreams, so you check out the major department stores. Up the escalator, walk through home furnishings and an employee may or may not be available. Most likely not, so you head to an adjacent department, and someone sends someone who barely knows the product and selection.

This scenario is repeated at most major department stores today, so off we go to our favorite furniture store where rugs are an accessory, like belts in the men’s store. No go here. Time to head over to the carpet, tile, and rug store.

Employees here are a bit more available and knowledgeable, but the quality and selection are just not quite right. Time for the expensive specialty store where expertise and service are #1 and so is price. $10,000 for that!

Time for the online experience to take over with countless purchase options, reviews, and confusing virtual reality options. This is getting painful. The attempted purchase is frozen in frustration. What does this have to do with what we do? Live and learn.

— Are you always available for your advertisers? When business is soft you lob in a mandatory attempt and move on. When business is through the roof, are you quick to return a call or open a new door?

— Do you simply walk through the same motions, or reflect the energy and enthusiasm of an exciting program lineup? Think of the rug seller, flipping through those rugs. Boring!

— Do you earn the price or just blame the boss? Since day one, some sellers find it easier to blame the boss instead of earning the value proposition.

— Are your advertisers frozen in frustration? Feel free to use the phrase that pays. Defrost that frozen decision maker before your competitor does.

A great program director once told me, the best on-air talents observe life with a pad and pen. Their notes come to life when the mic goes on. The same is true for great sellers and managers. Every purchase experience can improve your next call.

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.