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TALKERS magazine presents The Heavy Hundred – Page 2 of 8
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Heaviest Hundred
Originally Published in TALKERS magazine in 2010. Click to see the latest Heavy Hundred published in 4/2012.
Industry News
Mateo to Host Sunday Show on WABC
Red Apple Media unveils a new weekend program on WABC, New York hosted by former NYC mayoral candidate, co-founder and spokesman for United Bodegas of America, and chairman of the New York State
Federation of Taxi Drivers, Fernando Mateo. The new show, “No Excuses with Fernando Mateo” airs Sundays and 6:00 pm. Station owner John Catsimatidis says, “There are 65 million Hispanics in the U.S. and New York City is home to nearly three million of this fast growing population… With Mateo as part of our on-air lineup, we can super serve the needs and interests of the Hispanic community.”
Industry News
TALKERS News Notes
WYPR Announces Local Programming. Baltimore Public Media announces an update. To WYPR’s daily programming schedule that programming director Maxie Jackson says “aligns with Baltimore Public Media’s mission to connect, inform, and enrich the voices and communities of Baltimore and the world.” This includes news director Mat Bush hosting the live “WYPR News Roundup” every Friday at 2:00 pm as well as the addition of staffers including executive producer Amy Walters, senior producer Malarie Pinkard-Pierre, producer Elizabeth Nonemaker, and senior podcast producer Mark Gunnery. Jackson adds, “This growth would not be possible without our members, who have stepped up in a major way since the dissolution of the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. We’re seeing historic levels of engagement in our fundraising drives and translating that investment into action and expanded options for our audiences.”
WRFH Wins College Station of the Year from MAB. Hillsdale College’s radio station WRFH-FM, Hillsdale “Radio Free Hillsdale 101.7 FM” is named 2026 College Audio Station of the Year by the Michigan Association of Broadcasters during its 2026 College Audio Awards. This is the fourth consecutive year and fifth time since 2019 WRFH has won the honor.
Industry Views
Monday Memo: “Tell Me What Happened”
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
Good News/Bad News: Fender‑benders, slip‑and‑falls, and other “injuries caused by the negligent, careless, or reckless actions of others” will always happen. That’s the good news…for personal injury attorneys. Their bad news is that supply WAY-exceeds demand, and their advertising reflects it.
It all looks the same. The billboards are interchangeable: a headshot and a promise of six-figure settlements. When everyone is saying the same thing, differentiate with gimmicks. TV spots are either goofy shtick or tough-guy talk. Where I live, “The Heavy Hitter” has a phone number jingle Southern New Englanders can sing from memory. Competitors’ numbers are even easier, 444-4444 and 777-7777.
If you will be in Las Vegas for the NAB Show, turn on local TV there. You will howl. Some firms pitch “we charge less,” like a radio station dropping trou’ on rate to grab the whole buy. And there are the nationally syndicated spots, customized for local firms, in which cartoonishly terrified insurance executives beg to settle. Or the hard-boiled attorney threatens to “beat them in court.” Baloney! A jury trial is the last thing most personal injury firms want. Too time consuming, too risky.
Like radio’s, a lawyer’s inventory is perishable. We can’t monetize yesterday’s unsold avail. And lawyers can’t add the client who didn’t come in yesterday for that free, no obligation consultation. No “intake,” no sale. Which is exactly why they should be using radio.
“The lawyer is in, the meter is off” is the proposition when attorneys host brokered weekend talk shows and take listener calls. No look-alike billboard or tacky TV spot can humanize the attorney – and demonstrate comforting counsel – like eavesdropping on a conversation with a caller’s relatable situation. So instead of slogans or shouting about settlements, build the client’s message around four words that are turning callers into clients on weekend talk radio: “Tell me what happened.”
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
Hubbard Launches New Cubs Podcast
Hubbard Radio announces that via its 312 Sports network it is launching, “Off the Ivy: A Chicago Cubs Podcast,” hosted by Dan Bernstein, Matt Abbatacola, and Cody Delmendo. Hubbard says “Off the Ivy” marks the
latest addition to Gamut’s growing 312 Sports network, a Chicago-focused lineup anchored by “Dan Bernstein Unfiltered” and featuring shows such as “Forward Progress: A Chicago Bears Podcast” and “Organizations Win Championships,” a Chicago Bulls podcast. Gamut Podcast Network head John Goforth comments, “This isn’t just another recap show. Chicago fans don’t think about their teams in a vacuum, and we’re not going to talk about them that way either. ‘Off the Ivy’ is about what it all means – what a win says, what a loss exposes, and where this team is actually headed. If you care about the Cubs, this is the conversation you want to be part of.”
Industry News
Urban One’s 2025 Q4 Net Revenue Down 16.5%
Urban One’s operating results for the fourth quarter of 2025 show net revenue of $97.8 million, down 16.5% from the same period in 2024. The company reports broadcast and digital operating income was approximately $23.8 million for Q4, a decrease of 38.3% from the same period in 2024. Urban One reports a net loss of $54.4 million for Q4 of 2025, compared to a net loss of $35.7 million for the same period in
2024. Urban One CEO and president Alfred C. Liggins, III, states, “As expected, we had a tough fourth quarter due to a combination of non-recurring political advertising, soft radio markets and declining audience delivery in our cable television business. Despite this, we were able to achieve full-year Adjusted EBITDA within our previous guidance range at $56.7 million. The biggest revenue drag in the fourth quarter resulted from weak cable TV prime delivery, down approximately 20.0% from the third quarter, although we have seen a significant recovery in the first quarter 2026 as the revised Nielsen methodology has given us an approximate 40.0% – 50.0% lift compared to the fourth quarter 2025. Radio pacings in the first quarter of 2026 are currently down 5%, but we remain positive on the outlook for mid-term political revenues later in the year. I was pleased that we were able to repurchase a significant amount of our 2028 Notes at a discount, extend out the maturity on all but a small stub of the notes, and increase the size and term of our ABL Credit Agreement. This transaction sets up the company with a stable capital structure and extended maturity runway to allow us to continue to de-lever the business. In January 2026 we also regained compliance with the Nasdaq listing requirements by effectuating a 1-for-10 reverse stock split.”
Industry Views
Monday Memo: Your Local Advantage
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
Small businesses often underestimate their greatest competitive edge. It’s not price. It’s not selection.
It’s localness. Big companies spend millions trying to sound personal and relatable. Small businesses already are those things – yet they often fail to exploit their advantage.
Common small business marketing mistake: Trying to sound big, speaking in an unnatural tone, a kind of “corporate costume.” It sounds like: “We are committed to excellence” or “Our mission is to provide unparalleled service” or “We pride ourselves on quality and customer satisfaction.” That’s verbal Styrofoam. Nobody talks like this and nobody remembers this.
Local isn’t just location
It’s a feeling. When customers say they prefer to “shop local,” they don’t necessarily mean geographically close, independently owned/noncorporate. Those things do matter, but they’re not the heart of it.
What customers really mean is:
- “I feel like these people understand me.”
- “They get what matters here.”
- “They’re part of this place.”
- “They care about the same things I do.”
Local is emotional
It’s relational, human. Show that you understand the place your customers live by referencing familiar landmarks, acknowledging local quirks, using neighborhood names, mentioning local events, speaking the way locals speak. Explaining that the advertiser is “just off the rotary at the bridge” tells would-be customers: “We’re here. We get it.” Big brands can’t fake that.
Tout personal service:
“You can buy the same shed from Lowe’s or Home Depot, cash-N-carry. Buy yours at Lorraine Lumber and Paul Jr. will set it up in your back yard.”
This is the second installment in a 3-part series about optimizing commercial copy, the fundamentals we’re covering in Sales meetings as I visit client stations this spring. If you missed last week’s column, here’s “If It Doesn’t Matter to the Customer, It Doesn’t Matter.” Next week here: “Anatomy of a Results-Producing Spot.”
Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke and connect on LinkedIn
Industry News
TALKERS News Notes
Koehl Named Senior Fellow at D2C. Longtime talk radio professional Corny Koehl, whose career includes positions producing Dr. Laura Schlessinger, Suze Orman, Satellite Sisters, and Harpo Radio, is named Inaugural Senior Fellow at The Dedication to Community (D2C) Justice Institute at University of Mount St.Vincent. In this new role. Koehl will play a foundational role in shaping the Institute’s mission to advance justice-centered communication, public engagement and narrative change.
Tom Donahue Show to Launch on April 4. Talk media pro Tom Donahue says his program Truth Matters will debut on April 4 and will transition from SRN satellite distribution to online streaming and podcast audio file delivery to stations. The show will still air at 9:00 pm ET Saturday nights via direct stream from K-Star Talk Radio Network and will be heard on Talk Stream Live, World Broadcasting Network, “930 AM The Answer,” and later Sunday nights on KCAA Radio.
Industry News
Top Podcasts Steady on Podtrac’s Latest Ranker
There was no movement in the top five on Podtrac’s February 2026 Top U.S. Podcasts ranker based on unique U.S. monthly downloads for
participating networks. In order from #1 to #5 are NPR’s “NPR News Now,” The New York Times’ “The Daily,” “Up First from NPR,” NBC Universal’s “Dateline NBC,” and FOX Audio Networks’ “FOX News Hourly Update.” Other talk radio-related shows of note include DailyWire’s “The Ben Shapiro Show” at #7 and Silverloch’s “The Dan Bongino Show” at #9. See the complete chart here.
Industry Views
SABO SEZ: What Happened to Sex?
By Walter Sabo
A.K.A. Walter M Sterling
WPHT, Philadelphia
Sterling Every Damn Night
Sterling on Sunday Syndicated, TMN
Talk radio has a long incredibly successful run of shows about sex.
SEX SELLS. What happened to shows on radio that talk about sex? In the olden days, numerous shows focused on sex and relationships. Traditionally, time liberates cultural tolerance of conversations about sexual intimacy. Television, films and print have progressed to broaden the variety of subjects welcomed by the audiences.
Our history was lusty:
Dr. Ruth Westheimer launched on WYNY-FM, New York in 1980 on Sunday nights for 15 minutes. She read letters on the air. Quickly the show progressed to one, then two hours taking live phone calls. GM Dan Griffin never blinked. The station was owned by NBC/RCA, which housed the original standards and practices department, a department, not a deeply disliked single corporate attorney. Every week NBC Standards visited my office (I was the EVP in charge of the division not some hack from finance) and Dan Griffin’s office. We invited Standards to share their concerns with Dr. Ruth directly. She was 4’11”, had two bullet wounds in her legs from fighting for the Israeli Army, and two PhDs. That suggestion sent the censors back to their martinis.
After one year, Dr. Ruth, a radio star, was on the cover of PEOPLE and represented by William Morris Talent.
To this day, no one has achieved a higher share of 18–34-year-olds than Dr. Ruth on WYNY. Dr. Ruth was brought to WYNY by Betty Elam and Mitch Lebe. We told Dr. Ruth to say “blow jobs” and “vagina” as often as possible.
Sally Jesse Raphael hosted a show on NBC Talknet for 14 years. Sally’s was a national show about personal relationships and sex. Previously, she had won audience shares on local stations, WMCA, New York and WIOD, Miami. Then she launched 19 years of success on TV talking about relationships and sex!
Dr. Judy Kurianski, Dr. Toni Grant, and Dr. Laura Schlesinger were major, highly paid stars from discussing sex and relationships in highly entertaining shows.
Many top talk stations added relationship shows to their schedule hosted by skilled broadcasters such as on WRKO, Boston’s “Two Chicks Dishing,” Mary Walter on New Jersey 101.5, and Erin Sommers on WTKS, Orlando… “A lot of my friends who don’t like anal sex really enjoy rimming.” Number 1 men 18-34 first book. And, of course, the legendary morning stars such as Bubba the Love Sponge, Steve Dahl, Stevens and Pruitt, and the king, Howard Stern.
Oh, and please no nonsense about advertiser sensitivity to sex talk. Brands are spending billions on “influencers” whose videos run next to images of extreme sex acts and TV shows celebrating drugs, nudity and other good stuff.
Sex talk equals women ratings, younger ratings, engaged listens. This one’s easy.
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. He can be phoned at 646-678-1110.
Industry News
TALKERS News Notes
New York Archbishop to Host New Program. SiriusXM announces that new Archbishop of New York Ronald Hicks will host a new program for SiriusXM’s Catholic Channel, titled, “All Good Things with Archbishop Hicks. The program takes over the time slot previously held by Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who hosted “Conversations with Cardinal Dolan.”
Louisville Public Media Adds New Programs. Louisville Public Media expands its lineup with three new programs: “Sports in America” with David Greene from PRX and WHYY; “Click Here” with Dina Temple-Raston from PRX and Recorded Future News; and “Eastern Standard” from WEKU in Richmond, Kentucky. LPM president and CEO Kenya Young comments, “In listening to our audiences — those who have supported LPM for years and those we have yet to reach — one thing is unmistakably clear: people value programming that speaks to where they live. They want journalism and storytelling grounded in their communities, their state and the issues that shape their lives.”
Kevin Frazier to Appear at BFOA Gala. Broadcasters Foundation of America announces that “Entertainment Tonight” co-host Kevin Frazier will introduce Stephen A Smith, the recipient of the BFOA’s inaugural Broadcast Personality of the Year Award at the organization’s Gala and Fundraiser taking place Monday (3/9) at the Plaza Hotel in New York City.
Industry News
Dan Brady Promoted at Take On the Day LLC
Dr. Laura Schlessinger’s Take On the Day, LLC and Crossover Media Group Dan Brady is promoted to vice president/general manager in which he’ll oversee the day-to-day operations of the company. Brady moves up from chief call producer, director of podcast operations &
program audio, and vice president of operations roles. Take On The Day CEO Ron Hartenbaum says, “Dan has been critical to the on-going success of the radio program, podcast, live events, and pushing the growth of the video product to new levels of engagement. His ability to get things done is simply amazing.” Brady comments, “I’m humbled to be recognized in this elevated role by the managing partners and more importantly Dr. Laura as we continue to propel her legendary brand. Continuing to work with our partners at SiriusXM and their team in this new capacity is a true honor.”
Industry News
BFOA Annual Breakfast Honorees Announced
The Broadcasters Foundation of America announces the 2026 recipients of the Leadership Awards, Lowry Mays Excellence in Broadcasting Award, and Chairman’s Award that will be presented at the BFOA Annual Breakfast on April 22 during the NAB Show in Las Vegas. The 2026
Leadership Award honorees are: Heather Cohen, president, The Weiss Agency; April Carty-Sipp, EVP, Industry Affairs at NAB; Michael J. Hayes, president, Hearst Television; Mike Hulvey, president & CEO, Radio Advertising Bureau; Chad Matthews, president, ABC-Owned Television Stations; Alissa Pollack, EVP, Global Music Marketing, iHeartMedia. The 2026 Lowry Mays Excellence in Broadcasting Award honoree is John Catsimatidis, owner & CEO, WABC Radio/Red Apple Media. The 2026 Chairman’s Award honoree is Emmy-winning broadcast journalist Deborah Norville.
Industry News
WDUN Talk Star Martha Zoller Suffers Heart Attack
WDUN (AM 550 / FM 102.9), Gainesville, GA talk show host Martha Zoller was struck by a heart attack this past Thursday (2/5). Fortunately, she received immediate medical attention, and doctors say she is likely on the path to a smooth recovery. The 
conservative star of Northern Georgia’s most powerful and influential news/talk outlet is also an author, columnist, former U.S. Congressional candidate, and ubiquitous media presence. She is the recipient of numerous local, regional, and national awards including being named the TALKERS “Woman of the Year” in 2024. Zoller tells TALKERS, “Thankfully, I was at church when this happened. Thank you to my church and the fantastic paramedics at the Hall County Fire Department and the team at Northeast Georgia Health System. I’m going home with a lot of work to do. Thankfully, we live in the community I’m in. There are too many people to thank. You know who you are, thank you! I will see you, hear you soon.” Zoller can be reached via email at martha@marthazoller.com.
Industry Views
SABO SEZ: Bad AM Shows Don’t “Get Good” on FM
By Walter Sabo
A.K.A. Walter M Sterling
WPHT, Philadelphia
Sterling Every Damn Night
Sterling on Sunday Syndicated, TMN
“Darn, if we were on FM everything would get better.” Not true. This writer launched many of the successful talk formats on FM stations in the early 1990s. The ones that worked, such as KLSX, Los Angeles; WTKS, Orlando; and New Jersey 101.5 in Trenton, were produced for the unique demands of FM. Then and today, the FM band cume utilized the radio in a completely different manner than AM audiences. The competition on FM isn’t another talk show. It’s Chapelle Roan and Taylor Swift. Ya know, billion-dollar Taylor Swift. The production values of FM music stations set the expectations of “the sound.” “Let’s pay some bills…” Followed by bumper music! Followed by eight minutes of commercials for Med Alert is just not what FMers are used to hearing on Elvis Duran. (Elvis is doing a talk show.)
FM music stations are laser focused on precise demographics and marketing goals
Every moment of a music station is heavily considered for its ability to capture and hold a listener. Nothing is left to chance. Compare that reality with the odd feature of, “Let’s open the phones for whatever is on your mind!” The ancient demographics delivered by most talk shows are not an accident; it’s the net result of a product that appeals to people who need companionship, a voice talking, a voice to soothe them to sleep. Put that weary product on FM and get the same result.
FM Requirements, the short list
Every city is unique and an FM talk station that will succeed has some key ingredients:
- Well-defined target listener. Everyone at the station has to buy in to this target. Including the sales department.
- A production format. Each show should “sound” the same. That helps the cume flow show to show rather than starting and stopping show to show. Rules for call length, stop sets, and other elements should be the same at 10:00 am and 10:00 pm.
- Topic playlist. Each host should have a clear understanding of which topics make the meters bounce, and which don’t. That’s right, there are some you just shouldn’t do.
- Audio processing. If your chief thinks “those settings” will result in listener fatigueuse them.
- Music on the weekends. No infomercials. The music should be super-tight appealing to your target listener. Music blows off chronic talk radio listeners and brings in young cume for Monday morning.
Happy to share more success strategies for FM at 646-678-1110.
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
Andrew Cuomo to Host Weekly Show on WABC, New York
Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo was a guest on 77WABC Radio owner John Catsimatidis’ “Cats Roundtable” show last month and during that appearance Catsimatidis told Cuomo, “I hear you may be
talking a little bit more on WABC radio in the near future.” That has become reality as Red Apple Media announces the launch of “The Pulse of the People,” starring Cuomo. The one-hour show premiered yesterday (2/1) at 5:00 pm. Catsimatidis states, “Today on WABC Radio we are introducing a new program, ‘The Pulse of the People,’ hosted by former Governor Andrew Cuomo. The show will focus on listener calls and open discussion about the issues, concerns, and views of New Yorkers. WABC Radio believes in bipartisan conversation and thoughtful discussion of solutions, and we invite listeners to tune in and be part of the discussion.” Cuomo comments, “This is a moment when our country has rarely felt more divided, politics more polarizing, and public discourse more toxic. ‘The Pulse of the People’ is about cutting through the noise and the rancor to have real, substantive, fact-based conversations about the issues that actually affect people’s lives. I’ve spent my career focused on making government work and getting results, and that’s the same straightforward, problem-solving approach I’ll bring to this program.”
Industry News
TALKERS News Notes
SiriusXM Reveals Super Week Programming. SiriusXM says it is presenting comprehensive coverage of Super Bowl LX Week from San Francisco next week. Subscribers will get multiple game broadcasts, a dedicated pop-up channel, plus exclusive live sports and entertainment programming originating from the Super Bowl LX Media Center.
Benztown Offering Free Winter Games AudioPack. Benztown is offering radio stations its Winter Games AudioPack at no charge. Benztown says it “brings the excitement and action of the upcoming Winter Olympic Games Milano Cortina 2026 to stations and includes sound effects, music beds, and sweepers – everything stations need to quickly produce timely, high impact imaging that will take their listeners to Italy for all the Olympic feels and chills.”
Industry Views
Monday Memo: The Fearless Cold Caller
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
Often, when visiting client stations, I ride shotgun on a sales call, and it’s always a masterclass. Retailers have a canny, insightful feel for their customers (our listeners). And accompanying these reps, I feel like I’m “Dancing With The Stars.”
Cold calling still rattles many new sellers, even some veterans. The fear is understandable: interrupting strangers to ask for their time sounds like a recipe for rejection. And seems old-school, but the cold call isn’t a relic – it’s a differentiator. Done right, it’s not a pitch. It’s about discovery.
Here’s what successful sellers I work with seem to have in common:
- — Their goal isn’t a cold close.It’s to open a conversation about helping a business grow. They are confident in what radio advertising – done right – can accomplish.
- — They do homework beforehand, checking the prospect’s website, social feeds, Google reviews, and its other advertising. So, they can go in with something specific to reference. Some bring “an actual commercial that got results for a business like yours, somewhere else.” When I do a station sales meeting, I leave behind a thumb drive of successful spots from other markets. Retailers are wary of experiments, and curious for proven concepts.
- — They lead with curiosity. Like a job interview, you are judged more by the-questions-you-ask than the-information-you-give. Productive questions I hear include, “How are you attracting new customers right now?” and, “What’s been working best for you lately… and what’s been frustrating?” and, “Have you ever used local radio to tell your story?” Ask, “What’s the biggest mistake consumers make when planning a kitchen remodel [or purchasing whatever else the prospect sells]?” And, “Why buy from YOU?” Entrepreneurs like to talk about their business. Let them, and take notes, recording on your smartphone.
- — They present a no-risk offer that invests in the prospect’s growth. Hearing is believing, so “Let me take what-you’ve-told-me and bring back a message that tells your story, at no cost or obligation to you.” Rather than describing that story, spec spots demonstrate it. Note: “spots,” plural.
- — They bring back two spec spots, so the choice is this-or-that rather than yes-or-no. Not two versions of the same concept, but two different approaches. One might be a live read mock-up; the other a fully produced commercial, incorporating copy points from the prospect’s existing marketing material, and from that first-call interview…
- — If possible, they use the prospect’s voice. If he or she can read without sounding sing-songy, bring back a draft script. Here’s a straight pitchI wrote for the guy who maintains my home water system. More often, the most productive use of the prospect’s voice is unscripted sound bites lifted from the smartphone after that first call, wrapped with lean announcer copy, like this. Either way, spots like these can get people telling the advertiser “I heard you on the radio.” 😉
- — If that doesn’t close, they offer to re-do the spec spot, based on feedback from that second call. This persistence demonstrates a partnership with the prospect’s success, and shares authorship of the final version.
- — They anticipate rejection, and prep responses to common objections. They understand that “no” often means “not now.” Seeming super-appreciative for the prospect’s time, they thank him or her and ask “to check-back with you” in the future. They track attempts, conversations, and follow-ups.
Lately, I’m impressed by how reps are using Artificial Intelligence… not as a crutch, but to collaborate. Various vendors are hawking apps that will write – even voice – spots. Whenever I’m given a demo, I ask for copy about a restaurant my wife and I frequent. And what comes back is painfully generic – “in a relaxing atmosphere” – rather than capturing the experience. DO exploit AI. But ask it for copy concepts, and use it as a first draft, always to frame the prospect’s words.
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
“Stugotz & Company” to Debut Monday
FOX Sports Radio announces that “Stugotz and Company LIVE!” will debut on Monday (1/19), originating from iHeartMedia’s studios in South Florida. FSR says the show will air from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm daily on
more than 270 stations nationwide as well as on FOX Sports Radio’s channel on iHeartRadio and on FOXSportsRadio.com. The full radio show will also be available as a podcast immediately following each broadcast. In December, TALKERS reported that longtime Dan LeBatard producer and co-host Jon “Stugotz” Weiner would join FSR in a deal that would also feature an upcoming slate of original sports talk programming, including Stugotz’s podcasts “Stugotz and Company” and “God Bless Football.”
Industry News
TALKERS News Notes
AdLarge Acquires Inlet Media. AdLarge is acquiring the assets of technology platform Inlet Media, Inc that it has used for nearly two years to onboard, distribute, and monetize audio and video content through its AI-powered podcast and creator workflows. As part of the transaction, Patrick Cedrowski, co-founder of Inlet Media, has been named chief technology officer of AdLarge and the fwd. network. Brian Egan, co-founder of Inlet Media and longtime AdLarge and fwd. network team member, has been promoted to vice president and head of product.
NHPR Partners with The Podglomerate. New Hampshire Public Radio enters into an exclusive sales partnership with Portsmouth-based podcast agency The Podglomerate,, in which The Podglomerate will serve as the exclusive sales partner for podcasts produced by NHPR. NHPR director of on-demand audio Rebecca Lavoie says,“Partnering with The Podglomerate is a natural next step in our relationship. We’ve worked with them on several marketing campaigns, and are impressed with their steadfast advocacy for our journalism. They also have some of the most innovative approaches to monetization I’ve seen in the industry.”
Edison Presenting “Evolving Ear” Webinar. Edison Research will present, “The Evolving Ear: How New Listeners are Shaping Podcast’s New Chapter,” in a webinar on January 27 at 2:00 pm ET. Edison says, “The future of podcasting may be unpredictable, but listener trends offer the best clues about where it’s headed. Drawing from over 20 years of Edison Research data, senior research director Gabriel Soto will explore how the next wave of podcast consumers is shaping the medium.” Get more info and register here.
Radio Mercury Awards Call for Entry. Call for Entry for the 2026 Radio Mercury Awards is officially open. Entrants have the opportunity to be awarded in 17 categories along with the Best of Show recognition. Call for Entry deadline is Monday, April 6, 2026. Finalists for the show will be announced in early May, and winners will be announced at the live Radio Mercury Awards event on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at SONY Hall in New York City. For more information regarding entry categories, guidelines, entry fees and deadlines, available sponsorship information and more, click here.
Industry News
TALKERS News Notes
WABC and Cuomo Talking About a Weekend Show. Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and WABC, New York owner John Catsimatidis are talking about a new, weekend talk show that the Cuomo would host. The New York Post reports that during Cuomo’s appearance on Catsimatidis’ “Roundtable” show, Catsimatidis stated, “I hear you may be talking a little bit more on WABC radio in the near future,” with Cuomo replying, “I think your station has an audience that is participatory, and large. It’s very important… that we understand what’s going on and have informed dialogue and your station is a great vehicle to do that.”
WWO and Barbasol Celebrate 20 Years. Cumulus Media’s Westwood One and Barbasol are celebrating the 20th anniversary of one of sports media’s longest running brand partnerships: Barbasol’s sponsorship of the NFL on Westwood One. Westwood One president & Cumulus EVP Collin Jones says, “Long-term partnerships like this aren’t built on transactions, they’re built on alignment, honesty, and a willingness to evolve together. Barbasol activates with authenticity and consistency, whether supporting our talent, engaging fans, or backing causes that mean something to the players and analysts our listeners know and love. That’s why it works, why it’s lasted—and why we’re thrilled to mark 20 years with the brand. A special thanks to the Barbasol team and Murray family for their enduring partnership.”
Skyview Brings Doughty Aboard. Skyview Networks names Brian Doughty director, network sales. The company says that in this role, he’ll will work closely with its experienced sales team to continue elevating the overall sales strategy, utilizing his knowledge of the industry to deliver results for sports and network audio partners.
MIW Names Four to Board of Directors. Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc announces the addition of four new members to its Board of Directors, along with the appointment of current Board Member Randi P’Pool to the Executive Board as Secretary. New board members include: Townsquare Media’s Allyson Hillman, Audacy’s Kieran Geffert, Radio One’s Lauren “Lo” Sessions-Barker, and Salem Media Group’s Linnae Young.
Industry News
Joe Thomas Broadcasts from CES2026
Nationally syndicated morning drive host Joe Thomas (center) is pictured here at last week’s CES2026 trade show in Las Vegas where he broadcast to his “First Thing Today” show to his 50-plus affiliates via Talk Media Network. Thomas says, “It’s an amazing event and if you dig past the robot lawn mowers and giant TV’s you’ll find amazing folks like Commonwealth Fusion Systems’ Dr. Alex Creely (left) and Siemens’ Dr. Thiago Ribeiro (right). Thanks to Holland Cooke who convinced me years ago that it doesn’t matter what your politics are, this impacts everybody! (and you all should read Lawrence Ford‘s new book, The World DOES Need You!)”
Industry News
TALKERS News Notes
“Truth Matters” Show to Launch. A new weekend program titled, “Truth Matters with Tom Donahue & Angeline Marie” is debuting next Saturday (1/17) on the Salem Radio Network. Donahue says, “We have been friends and colleagues for over 15 years. We co-hosted several popular podcast series in the past. We hold similar political views, and we are both inspired to deliver our takes reporting on the most compelling topics from a factual and rational perspective. Always from a Christian, America First, independent conservative vantage point. We plan to shed light and insight on the prevailing controversies, coverups, and conspiracies.”
WBUR to Debut New Business Show. Public radio outlet WBUR, Boston announces the debut of a new business-focused series titled, “The WBUR Breakfast Club,” designed to bring Boston decision makers together to connect and explore the most pressing issues facing business leaders today. The inaugural event on Thursday, January 22, features Patagonia CEO Ryan Gellert in conversation with Ari Shapiro, former host of NPR’s “All Things Considered.”
Industry News
John Terrett to Host Red Apple Market Reports
Red Apple Media announces that John Terrett is the host of the twice-daily Red Apple AM/PM Market Reports. CEO John Catsimatidis says, “More than ever before, listeners need clarity on what’s happening on Wall Street. John has been a guest on my Sunday program, ‘The Cats Roundtable,’ many times, and his exceptional understanding of the financial world arms listeners with the knowledge they need to make smart financial decisions.”
Industry News
TALKERS News Notes
Compass Presents 18th Season of College Hoops. Compass Media Networks is launching its 18th season of broadcasting men’s college basketball with 20 top-ranked, regular season matchups that includes top 25 ranked schools from the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12 and SEC conferences.
WTOP Partners with Top Workplaces. Hubbard Radio’s WTOP News is partnering with TOP Workplaces (formerly of the Washington Post) to recognize and celebrate the best places to work across the Washington, D.C. region. WTOP president Joel Oxley says, “WTOP is proud to carry forward the Top Workplaces program, recognizing and supporting exceptional local employers. As the go-to place for news and information in Washington D.C. this partnership felt like a natural fit.”
FCC’s Carr Names Chief Economist. Federal Communications Chairman Brendan Carr names Dr. Jonathan Williams chief economist for the Commission in addition to his current role as chief of the office of economics and analytics. The chief economist advises the chairman, commissioners, and bureaus & offices on economic issues and works with the agency’s Office of Economics and Analytics.
Industry Views
CES2026: Come for the Gadgets, Stay for the Power Struggle
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
Hello from Las Vegas, where 150,000+ of us – from around the world — are swarming. Think: hand sanitzer. And comfortable shoes.
To give you a sense of the scope of what’s up, here’s a PDF link to the slide deck from the Consumer Technology Association’s perennial “Tech Trends” research reveal: https://www.cta.tech/media/chwotebs/ces26_techtrendsdeck.pdf
They click “Buy,” then they click “Return.”
Now, Artificial Intelligence is cracking-down on E-commerce return fraud. In 2025, scammers cost us consumers an estimated seventy-six-and-a-half billion dollars, by applying for a product refund, then sending back something else of less value, like a cheap knock-off that can’t be resold.
“Happy Returns” is a UPS-owned company accepting no-box and no-label returns…which scammers LOVE, because it offers immediate refunds. So a new Artificial Intelligence tool called “Return Vision” will flag suspicious returns by analyzing patterns — early or frequent return requests, linked email addresses and past suspicious activity that could evade human detection. So, scammers, no matter how-quick-you-click, AI is watching.
When U.S. senators show up here, you know that CES isn’t just a gadget expo.
Broadband access is the new oxygen, and Artificial Intelligence is quietly creeping into the background of almost everything we do. Washington now sees consumer technology as a policy issue, impacting jobs, national security, and the USA economy. So lawmakers and high-ranking government officials come to CES to get face‑to‑face with companies building the tools they may soon be regulating; and to talk about new rules for how AI is used in phones, cars, and workplaces.
Tech companies want a say in those rules — so this is where the negotiations happen. Most CES coverage you see features shiny new gadgets, but the real action here is the growing partnership — and sometimes tension — between Big Tech and Big Government.
Help yourself to my 60-second CES reports.
They’re updated daily, for air all this week. Simply download from HollandCooke.com. No charge, no paperwork, no spot.
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
Salem Launches Jake Underwood Show on WHK, Cleveland
Salem Media names Jake Underwood host of the new late morning show on its O&O WHK-AM, Cleveland “1420 The Answer.” Underwood began his media career as a news anchor and reporter at WTAM, Cleveland covering state and local politics with a focus on
accountability in government spending and policy. He has also served as executive director of the Medina County Republican Party and as national director of state legislation for Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Action. Un Durwood says, “We’re creating a space where Northeast Ohioans can engage with the issues that matter most to them. Whether you agree or disagree, this show is about elevating the conversation and encouraging active participation in our community’s future. Educating and enlightening our fellow Ohioans in a style that encourages active audience engagement is what drives and motivates me. I look forward to mixing it up with those in our audience with whom I agree — and with those with whom I disagree.”
Industry News
TALKERS News Notes
New Affiliates for Erick Erickson. Nationally syndicated talk host Erick Erickson adds new affiliate stations including WMAC, Macon, Georgia; Virginia Talk Radio Network’s WIQO-FM, WBLT-AM/FM and WMNA-FM; WUSX-FM, Seaford, Delaware; WETR-AM/FM, Knoxville; and WBRP-FM, Baton Rouge.
MIW Management Webinar Set for January 15. Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc are presenting a webinar titled, “Management 101: Becoming an Impactful Leader,” next Wednesday, January 15 at 2:00 pm ET. Media executives including Townsquare Media Group COO Erik Hellum, StreamGuys’ Dara M. Kalvort, Audacy San Francisco’s Kieran Geffert, and WGN Radio’s Mary Boyle will appear as panelists. You can register here.