Industry News

Round Three of May PPMs Released

imThe third of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s May 2023 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus. Nielsen’s May 2023 sweep covered April 27 – May 24. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In San Antonio, Alpha Media’s news/talk KTSA falls three-tenths and finishes the survey with a 3.3 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) that leaves it ranked #12, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk WOAI also dips three-tenths to wrap with a 3.1 share good for the #14 rank in the market. iHeartMedia’s talk WTKS-FM, Orlando declines six-tenths for a 4.5 share finish and the #10 rank, while Cox Media Group’s crosstown news/talk WDBO adds two-tenths to finish with a 3.7 share that leaves it locked in the #11 position. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

Ratings Takeaways

Round Two of May PPM Released

imThe second of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s May 2023 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen’s May 2023 sweep covered April 27 – May 24. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Rating Takeaways from this group of markets. In Washington, DC, Cumulus Media’s news/talk WMAL-FM rises a half share to finish the survey with a 4.7 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) and stays ranked #7, while Hubbard Broadcasting’s all-news WTOP-FM dips six-tenths to an 8.0 share but remains ranked #2. iHeartMedia’s news/talk WRKO, Boston rises eight-tenths to finish with a 4.4 share and jumps two spots to the #9 rank, while sister all-news WBZ-AM tacks on four-tenths for a 4.5 share finish and stays in the #8 spot. In Seattle, Bonneville’s news/talk KIRO-FM sheds one-tenth to wrap the survey with a 4.3 share stays ranked #8, while Lotus Communications’ crosstown all-news KNWN-AM/FM loses six-tenths for a 3.4 share finish that moves it to the #14 rank.  See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways here.

Industry News

WABC, New York Adds Roger Stone Show to Sundays

Political strategist Roger Stone joins the staff of WABC, New York for a one-hour, weekly show that airs Sundays at 3:00 pm. Stone was convicted of obstructing a congressional investigation into Trump’s 2016 campaign and possible ties to Russia, but his sentence was commuted by Trump. Stone’s program debuted onim June 11 with an interview with the former president. Red Apple Media CEO John Catsimatidis says, “Roger’s impressive career has established him as a prominent figure in American politics. His wealth of experience offers an insider’s view into the political landscape, providing listeners with rare behind-the-scenes insights, razor-sharp analysis, unparalleled insights, and dedication to the truth will captivate audiences worldwide,”

Industry News

Round One of May PPMs Released

imThe first of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s May PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey). Nielsen’s May 2023 sweep covered April 27 – May 24. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In New York City, Red Apple Media’s news/talk WABC-AM & WLIR-FM is steady at a 3.7 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) but slides from the #10 rank to #11, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk WOR dips two-tenths to a 1.7 share and remains ranked #18. iHeartMedia’s KFI, Los Angeles is flat with a 4.3 share but falls back to the #5 rank in the market. In Chicago, Nexstar Media Group’s news/talk WGN adds one-tenth to finish with a 3.3 share and rises one spot to the #9 rank, while Audacy’s all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM loses two-tenths to finish with a 4.2 share but rises to the #3 rank in the market. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways here.

Industry News

Emery Songer Named Afternoon Host at KFAB, Omaha

iHeartMedia announces that Emery Songer is the new afternoon drive talk host at KFAB, Omaha “NewsRadio 1110,” effective June 26. Songer joins KFAB, Omaha after more than five years as a host and producer with Newsradio 1040 WHO in Des Moines. iHeartMedia says,im “During that time, he has guest-hosted statewide news/talk programs as well as a regular weekend show, produced their daily morning show, worked with clients in a creative variety of ways, and spent countless evenings and weekends announcing local soccer and baseball games.” KFAB program director Scott Voorhees adds, “Emery will continue KFAB’s nearly 100-year-old tradition of on-air personalities who are passionate about connecting with the community we serve. It’s not about hammering an agenda; it’s about entertaining and relevant conversations of interest to Omaha/Council Bluffs and the surrounding area.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

“You Better You Bet,” the flagship program of Audacy’s BetQL Network joins the program schedule at CRC Broadcasting’s KQFN-AM/K257CD, Phoenix in the 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm daypart.

Salem Media Group announces that the “Main Street Matters” podcast, produced by Job Creators Network, joins the Salem Podcast Network. The small business-focused program features inspirational real-life stories of the struggles and successes of small business owners. It is co-hosted by Alfredo Ortiz and Elaine Parker.

SiriusXM unveils the new Jeff Lewis Channel on the SiriusXM app. The channel featured content from the SiriusXM Radio Andy show, plus three new shows: the “Jeff Lewis Live After Show” with comedians Brandy Howard and Julie Goldman, “Flipping Out Friday,” as well as “Chumps Happy Hour,” featuring a rotating cast of hosts.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Future-Proof Your Career

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imHow will AI tools like ChatGPT impact the way we work? The clues are everywhere. Several client stations have automated weather, and even with your consultant’s trained ear, I had to ask. And yes, she’s a robot.

From Harvard Business Review: 5 tips

— Avoid Predictability – AI isn’t generating new insights; it’s a prediction engine that merely guesses the most likely next word…its suggestions tend to homogenize, and they’re only as good as the wisdom of the crowds, which is often the exact opposite of wisdom.

— Hone the skills that machines strive to emulate – AI responses display empathy (“I am sorry my answer upset you”), self-awareness (“I’m just an AI model and my answers are based on training data”). But those responses are based on text prediction, and AI is not capable of experiencing or displaying the human version of these soft skills…so actually knowing and caring about what others think and feel, truly understanding yourself, and being capable of creating something machines cannot is an essential strategy to set yourself apart.

im

— Double down on “the real world” – Original research — actually talking to people and identifying new insights — becomes critical, because AI can only connect past dots and information it’s already been presented with. When you tap into information that isn’t (yet) online through your lived experience or novel interviews and conversations, you’re adding something genuinely new to the cultural conversation that wouldn’t be possible through AI.

— Develop your personal brand – Just as art world buyers will pay exponentially more for a “real Rembrandt” rather than an equally beautiful painting by one of his lesser-known contemporaries, corporate leaders will likely continue to pay a premium to work with people viewed as the “top of their field” — partly as a statement of quality, and partly as a brand statement about whom they associate with and what they value.

— Cultivate expertise – AI technologies are prodigious researchers that can summon a cavalcade of facts almost instantly. Unfortunately, some of those facts aren’t true. Even if AI performs “first draft” functions, it still has to be double-checked by a trusted and reliable source.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books; and “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.” Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

In three weeks (6/24), NPR White House correspondent/“NPR Politics Podcast” co-host Scott Detrow will become weekend host of the network’s “All Things Considered.” Vice president of news programming Eric Marrapodi comments, “With Scott at the helm, we’re going to be experimenting with the sound of the show and the way we produce it. We want to further integrate the ‘Consider This’ podcast with the weekend show. We also look forward to Scott bringing his original enterprise reporting on a range of topics. His experience on the White House beat had him chasing the president around the country and the world to bring our audiences great reporting with good humor. He’ll bring that same energy and commitment to bringing home stories for ‘All Things Considered’ audiences.”

“Choice Words With Samantha Bee” launched yesterday (Thursday, 6/2) via Lemonada Media. In her weekly podcast, the former host of TBS’ “Full Frontal” and correspondent for Comedy Central’s “Daily Show” will interview celebrities, politicians, and others about the choices they’ve made in their lives. Topics will reportedly range from what to eat for breakfast and which subway car to take, to who someone is voting for and what they do with their body. Bee’s initial guests were Judd Apatow and Rosie O’Donnell.

After debuting their “Aarthi and Sriram Show” in December 2020 on Clubhouse, technologists Aarthi Ramamurthy and Sriram Krishnan are bringing their weekly (Saturday) program to iHeartPodcasts. According to iHeartPodcasts president Will Pearson, “Aarthi and Sriram have created an impressive show featuring insightful conversations with top minds across industries. These two have built a highly engaged community. We are thrilled to welcome ‘The Aarthi and Sriram Show’ to iHeartPodcasts and help the show reach an even wider audience.”  

Free hourly, 60-second updates live from Wimbledon will be offered by Radio News Hub during next month’s tennis tournament (7/3 – 16). The John Cushing-hosted updates will be fed between 11:00 am and 7:00 pm (BT). Head of programming David Prever notes, “Wimbledon is one of the most highly anticipated events in the global sporting calendar and always serves in terms of drama, atmosphere, and sporting achievements. Broadcasting from the heart of the event will allow listeners to get a true sense of anticipation and excitement before, during and after each day’s events. We are once again delighted to offer this enhanced, free service to stations across the world and continue to show the quality of coverage Radio News Hub provides.”

 Five-time Emmy winner Wayne Brady will receive the “Service to America Leadership” award from the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation during the Celebration of Service to America Awards next Tuesday (6/2) in Washington, DC. NABLF president/chief executive officer Michelle Duke remarks, “Wayne Brady’s multifaceted career has showcased his unique talent and hilarious personality on-screen, on stage and on-the-air to the delight of audiences for decades. He has also used his immense gifts to support numerous charitable endeavors, raise our spirits and shine a light on worthwhile causes. NABLF and broadcasters across the country look forward to recognizing his generosity and compassion at the Celebration of Service to America Awards.”

Industry News

Status of WBZ-FM, Boston’s Fred Toucher Unknown

On Wednesday’s program, WBZ-FM, Boston “98.5 The Sports Hub” morning drive host Rich Shertenlieb spoke about the absence of co-host Fred Toucher on this week’s programs after Toucher’s concerning social media posts last weekend. Those posts have since been deleted but they made references to wishing to die. Shertenlieb told listeners that their desire to know what’s going on with Toucher is understandable but that hisim hands are tied as anything he could say has to be approved by management. The Boston Globe reports that Shertenlieb said, “The last time he was out for an extended period, I gave an update and was gently asked for a lot of different reasons that any statement regarding him has to be approved by management. There have been statements that have been submitted, some have been approved, some haven’t been. It just turns into asking, ‘What can I say? What can I say?’ Listen, no one wants to be in this position. Fred doesn’t want to be in this position, the station doesn’t want to be in this position, I certainly don’t want to be in this position, but as of now, all I’ve been approved to tell you, because you’re such great listeners and we love you, is that he’s not here today, I’m not sure exactly when he’ll be back, but I’ve been a friend of Fred’s for years and I hope the best for him.” Read the Boston Globe story here.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

FOX News Media is presenting the third installment of “The Senate Project” series on June 12 at 11:00 am ET from the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate in Boston and will feature Senators Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) in a forum moderated by FOX News Channel chief political anchor Bret Baier. The hour-long event will focus on a variety of topics, including foreign policy and homeland security.

Cumulus Media’s Westwood One announces it is broadcasting every game of the Women’s College World Series beginning with the preliminary games on June 1 through the finals on June 9. The broadcast crews for the Women’s College World Series will feature Ryan Radtke and Chris Plank as play-by-play announcers; former Oklahoma and Team USA outfielder Destinee Martinez and Hall of Famer Leah (O’Brien) Amico.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Audacy radio stations were honored with 30 Regional Edward R. Murrow Awards from the RTDNA. WCCO, Minneapolis; KNX, Los Angeles; WBBM, Chicago; WBEN, Buffalo; and WCBS, New York captured the distinguished “Overall Excellence” Award.

Edison Research announces that its Edison Podcast Metrics is launching in the U.K. The first survey is underway with data from Q2 2023 to be available for subscribers sometime in Q3. Edison SVP Melissa Kiesche says, “We are incredibly enthusiastic about the expansion of Edison Podcast Metrics to the U.K. We have seen how beneficial the data has been to those in the podcast industry in the U.S. and we are looking forward to seeing the thriving podcast community in the UK take advantage of this research.”

ABC Audio has two Memorial Day programs for news/talk stations. “Uvalde 365,” hosted by ABC News correspondent Michelle Franzen, chronicles the May 24, 2022 shooting of 19 students and two teachers. This one-hour program is part of a larger ABC News initiative in which a team embedded in the community for one year follows survivors and families of victims as they cope with the loss of their loved ones and the inaction of the police, their fight for justice, and developments in the investigation. “America Remembers,” hosted by correspondent Alex Stone, features Iraq and Afghanistan veterans still struggling with PTSD and highlights gold star family members who have lost loved ones during their time of service and who talk about how they are moving through their grief.

Industry News

Salem Front and Center at NRB Conference

im

More than 4,000 Christian broadcasters are in Orlando this week attending the 79th annual National Religious Broadcasters conference. Among those in attendance are Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, evangelist Franklin Graham, and authors like FOX News personality Raymond Arroyo (above, left) being interviewed by Salem Radio Network news correspondent Lori Tradup (right.)

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Verbs?

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imWarning: The Commonwealth of Massachusetts certified me to teach high school English, in the early 1970s, the last year certifications were for life. Though I was lured-away by VU-meter hypnosis, I still carry a red pen. And radio news has it running-dry.

This story was about a love triangle shooting.

— Here’s what listeners heard — read this aloud: “The woman’s husband arrested the wounded man taken to the hospital.”

— Here are the facts the writer obscured: Police arrested the woman’s husband, the accused shooter. The person he shot was hospitalized.

— As-is, the ear was told something very different when half-sentences ran-together.

Another example: “A cruise ship expected to take Americans out of Lebanon today.”

— I think he meant: “A cruise ship is expected to take Americans out of Lebanon today.”

— But the missing verb, the time zone difference, and the chaos in Lebanon were such that – as written — listeners could have inferred the copy to mean that a cruise ship was-expected-to evacuate Americans…until something went wrong.

im

Translation?

“A young mother murdered the suspect found dead.”

Huh?

“Woods asked directly about his future on the tour.”

It’s unclear whether this sentence means:

— Tiger Woods was asking about his future…OR…

— He was asked-about it.

Even a robot knows better

When I typed “Missing verbs confuse the ear,” ChatGPT replied:

“Yes, missing verbs can make sentences unclear and confusing to the listener or reader. Verbs are important components of a sentence as they express the action, state, or occurrence of the subject. They help to convey the intended meaning of the sentence and to show how different elements of the sentence relate to each other.”

And finally…

Never verb nouns.

KIDDING.

Old English teacher joke.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books; and “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.” Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Audacy partners with nonprofit breast cancer organization Susan G. Komen for its four Milwaukee radio stations – including sports talk WSSP-AM “1250AM The Fan” – to become the official radio media sponsor of the organization’s Wisconsin division. The stations will unite to support Susan G. Komen with a “One in Eight” program spotlighting the fact that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. On the eighth, eighteenth, and twenty-eighth day of each month, the stations will host a segment promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors. Audacy Madison and Milwaukee regional president Andrea Hansen says, “We’re proud to leverage our voice to inspire local community members to support the cause to end breast cancer in ways that unite Milwaukee and deliver much-needed funding. Susan G. Komen is the leader in breast cancer research and the fight to find a cure and we’re thrilled to team up with them to champion their mission.”

City College of New York-owned non-commercial station WHCR-FM is airing a new, weekly radio programim hosted by Barbara Askins, president & CEO of the 125th Street Business Improvement District. The title of the show is “125th Street & Beyond” and focuses on the organization’s mission. WHCR general manager Angela Harden comments, “It is also a show about the relationships the 125th St. BID is building with New York City agencies and with BIDs around the world. Perhaps no neighborhood in New York City is as storied as Harlem, long the capital of Black culture in the United States. It’s a name known around the world. And now 125th Street has its own show. I am honored to host the show and look forward to welcoming many voices that support the betterment of Harlem.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Salem Media Group announces that it will present virtually at the Singular Research Spring Select Webinar on May 24 at 4:45 ET. The presentation will be available on the investor relations portion of the company’s website prior to the company’s presentation.

Audacy Philadelphia celebrated Operation Legacy, a home rehabilitation project in partnership with Travis Manion Foundation, with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony at local veteran Kris Giuranna’s home on May 19. The stations – including news/talk WPHT, all-news KYW, and sports talk WIP-FM – teamed up to provide United States Marine Corps veteran a home fit for a hero and honor his contributions to the country. Audacy Philly SVP and market manager David Yadgaroff says, “It is so rewarding to watch this project come to life. Audacy Philly, along with our partners Travis Manion Foundation, Window Nation, Impriano Roofing and Main Line Pro Painting, are thrilled to honor Kris and his service to our country by providing him with the needed renovations for his new home.”

The Newsmax syndicated radio program “The Rob Carson Show” adds new affiliate station news/talk WGMD-FM, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware to its roster of affiliates. Resort Broadcasting also operates news/talk WUSX-FM, Seaford Delaware and simulcasts most of the programming on the two stations. Rob Carson’s show airs on WGMD’s 92.7 FM frequency.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Remote News Service adds 13 new affiliate stations to its roster, including Alpha Media’s KTSA, San Antonio; Forcht Broadcasting’s stations in Paintsville, Kentucky, and Basin Mediactive’s stations in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Remote News Service president and lead anchor Lesley Lotto says, “We’ve always provided fill-in news anchors for vacations, illness, sudden departures, etc. Across the industry there’s been an increase in fill-in requests, especially from stations that need someone on the air in 6 to 12 hours, which we are able to provide.”

The Motley Fool announces that Chris Hill, longtime host of the “Motley Fool Money” podcast and radio show, is leaving at the end of the month. Taking over host duties is head of programming Dylan Lewis. Hill comments, “Getting the chance to create and host Motley Fool Money has been the highlight of my time at The Motley Fool. One of the things I’ve always loved is the team approach we’ve taken to helping listeners understand what’s happening on Wall Street, bringing a long-term perspective to daily market news, and offering stock ideas and analysis. We have a deep bench, and that same team approach will continue after I’m gone. With the show in such a position of strength, the time is right for me to explore the next chapter in my professional life.”

iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman and COO and CFO Rich Bressler will participate in a question and answer session during the J.P. Morgan Technology, Media and Communications Conference on May 23 at 5:15 pm ET. A live webcast of the session will be available to the general public at the start of the session through a link on the Investors homepage of iHeartMedia’s website and a replay of the webcast will be available in the Events & Presentation section of iHeartMedia’s Investors homepage.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Apple Heaven and Hell

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imEver lost your phone? It’s an instant sick, sinking feeling. It’s quaint to even call it a “phone,” because it’s…everything. Including us. Like the transistor radio Boomers toted in our youth, it’s audio in your pocket.

For broadcasters and podcasters, a smartphone can be the whole toolbox. MOVIES are being shot on the newest iPhone. The cameras and editing apps are that good. TV and radio can go live, anywhere there’s a signal. And, like Alexa, Siri is conversant. Dictation isn’t just a convenient voice-to-text appliance. It makes lots of apps lots handier, and safer while driving. So, when, suddenly, my phone couldn’t hear me anymore, I went Code Red.

“Testing…testing…”

First triage: Google. But when I satisfied myself that all my settings were as they should be, I needed a person. As expected, the patient expert on Apple’s Support line had a thick foreign accent and great people skills. She had me repeating all the steps Google recommended, and told me I had to update my OS. When repeated attempts failed, I needed in-person handholding, a/k/a The Genius Bar.

Just TRY calling an Apple Store. The local number for the Providence Place Mall location rings in Texas I was told, after I cheated by reaching out to a friend who works for Apple and got me in the door. The irony is painful: They sell telephones but can’t answer one.

im

Antiques Roadshow

I’ll seem my age if it’s 2023, and I’m still toting iPhone 8. Hey, it worked…until it didn’t. And the Genius Bar person explained that it had missed too many OS updates to ever catch-up. And when she ran diagnostics, enough other issues warranted the handoff to sales.

Dazzling as the latest-greatest are, I went with SE, same size/shape/appearance as the 8 being retired. It snapped right into the decorative Block Island cover case that had saved the old phone from so many drops. In the survey Apple emailed later that day, I couldn’t say enough about Matty, the sales guy who walked me through setting-up the new phone. All better now, and although it’s now sans SIM card, the retired 8 phone is a spare tire. If I want to talk to it, I’ll need earbuds. But it’s an otherwise functional iPod that will Facetime, Email, you-name-it, via WiFi.

So then?

With most AM/FM broadcast hours now automated or syndicated, stations that make local human connections will be conspicuous; and niche-topic podcasts will ooze “community.”

I write lots of commercials, and – where pertinent – we assure that “you won’t land in voicemail.” And we’ll emphasize one-on-one support. Here’s how one client – the voice you hear is the owner, whose stations are 100 miles from Dallas – sells expensive cameras, at a store in Dallas: http://getonthenet.com/CompetitiveCameras.mp3

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books; and “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.” Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

Fred Toucher Returns to “98.5 The Sports Hub”

WBZ-FM, Boston “98.5 The Sports Hub” morning drive personality Fred Toucher returned to the program on Thursday after a medical leave of absence to deal with a throat problem that was affecting his voice. Co-hostim Rich Shertenleib had taken a sick day, so the two haven’t worked together since Toucher accused his co-workers of not reaching out to him while he dealt with what was thought to be a cancer scare. He was ultimately diagnosed with leukoplakia, something that can be caused by smoking. Toucher told his listeners, “I have two pieces of advice: Do not smoke and get a second opinion. They thought that I had cancer. If you saw pictures of the original thing they took of my throat, there was a big lump on my vocal cord, like a big lump. I wasn’t supposed to talk for two weeks. And now it just turns out to be Leukoplakia.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Cumulus Media and LEARFIELD’s Providence Friars Sports Properties renew their multi-year agreement to broadcast Providence College athletics.  Cumulus Providenc VP and market manager Holly Paras says, “I am excited to expand our relationship with the Providence College Friars to include hockey play-by-play on ‘790 The Score.’ The addition of college hockey to Southern New England’s only source for local college sports talk is a perfect fit and enhances our strong partnership with the legendary Friar Men’s Basketball program on WPRO.”

Enterprise podcast hosting solution provider Podbean achieves SOC 2 Type II compliance in accordance with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants standards for SOC for Service Organizations, also known as SSAE 18. Podbean CEO David Xu says, “This certification ensures that the platform adheres to strict security and privacy standards, safeguarding your valuable content and data. By hosting your podcasts on such a platform, you demonstrate your commitment to maintaining the highest level of trust and confidence in your enterprise’s data management practices. Ultimately, this level of assurance allows you to focus on creating and distributing exceptional podcast content while enjoying peace of mind knowing that your enterprise’s digital assets are secure and compliant.”

The “Motley Fool Money” radio program hosted by Chris Hill adds new affiliate KAOI-AM/FM, Maui, Hawaii to its roster of affiliates.

Industry News

The Ramey Show’s George Kamel Launches YouTube Channel

George Kamel, co-host of “The Ramsey Show” on the Ramsey Network, is launching a new YouTube channel designed to help “others win with money while exposing a system designed to keep Americans broke.”im The Ramsey Network says Kamel, who went from negative net worth to millionaire and has successfully navigated the money minefield, will “tackle the tough topic of money with humor and wit.” Kamel comments, “There’s so much anxiety and frustration around money. I’m so pumped about this channel because we’re going to show people personal finance doesn’t need to be complicated, and we’re going to have a lot of fun doing it.” New episodes will be posted every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Industry News

Audacy Promotes Rosen and Porth at “The Score”

Audacy announces leadership promotions at sports talk WSCR-AM, Chicago “670 The Score” as station programmer Mitch Rosen is upped to vice president and brand manager. Rosen will continue in his role asim vice president of BetQL Network. Audacy Chicago VP of programming and operations Greg Solk says, “Mitch Rosen is ‘The Score’ and has led his team for nearly two imdecades of unprecedented success. He has a keen eye for talent and has the deepest relationships in Chicago sports media. We are all excited about the future of ‘The Score’ with Mitch leading the way.” At the same time, the company promotes assistant brand manager Ryan Porth to program manager, reporting to Rosen. In this role, Porth will assume day-to-day responsibilities of the station’s programming. Rosen comments, “Ryan Porth came into “The Score Clubhouse” in January of 2022 and has fit in like a veteran. We are excited about his next step in helping to guide the future of Chicago’s sports powerhouse.”

Industry News

Fred Toucher Could Return to WBZ-FM, Boston Soon

According to a story by Brandon Contes in Awful Announcing, WBZ-FM, Boston “98.5 The Sports Hub” morning drive co-host Fred Toucher says he may get his doctor’s permission to go back on the air after anim extended absence for a chronic throat condition that led to a cancer scare. Toucher, who co-hosts the morning show with Rich Shertenlieb, says in a video he posted to Twitter, “I feel my voice is getting stronger. I think that if I go to the doctor on Monday, he is going to give me permission to go back on the air. So, what turned out as a big, big cancer scare, where I was given assurances that it was cancer in my throat, might turn out to be that I needed not to talk for a very long time.” Read the Awful Announcing piece here.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Salem Media Group Inc will report its first quarter 2023 financial results after the market closes on May 9. The company also plans to host a teleconference to discuss its results on May 9, 2023, at 5:00 pm ET.

CBS Radio is presenting a documentary program for broadcast over the Memorial Day weekend titled, “Who Killed George Polk?” that looks into the shocking murder of CBS news correspondent George Polk in 1947. The program is hosted by Steven Portnoy and executive produced by Craig Swagler. Seventy-five years ago this spring, Polk was executed and his body dumped into the Aegean Sea. Historians who have studied the case over the decades have suggested that the murder of the CBS newsman was actually a conspiracy that involved the US-backed Greek government. The theory of the case is that the CIA – aided by Polk’s fellow journalists — covered up the truth to protect American interests at the height of the Cold War. Redacted CIA documents — original copies of which cannot now be found — give rise to that suspicion.

WNYC Studios launches a new, 12-part season of “More Perfect,” the Supreme Court-focused podcast series that brings the highest court of the land down to earth. “More Perfect” debuted as the first spin-off of “Radiolab” in 2017.  In this new season, host Julia Longoria “revisits the human dramas at the Court that are driving change around core aspects of American life today — from our religious freedom to our artistic expression; from our reproductive choices to our voice in democracy.”

Industry News

Beasleys Honored by B+C Hall of Fame

Beasley Media Group late company founder George Beasley and his daughter, CEO Caroline Beasley, were among the inductees honored at the 2023 Broadcasting + Cable Hall of Fame Gala on Wednesday (5/3) in New York City. Caroline Beasley (pictured at right accepting the honors) says, “It is very humbling to be aim part of such an outstanding class of inductees. The only thing better would have been to have my late father, George, by my side, to accept this incredible honor together in person.” Other inductees included Deborah Roberts, ABC News national senior affairs correspondent, and contributing anchor of 20/20, and her husband Al Roker, weather and feature anchor and co-host of the third hour of NBC’s “Today Show,” Matt Bond, chairman, content distribution, NBCUniversal; Ray Cole, president and chief operating officer, Citadel Communications; Frank Comerford, CRO and president, local sales, NBCUniversal Advertising & Partnerships; Ray Hopkins, president, U.S. Networks Distribution, Paramount Global; Wonya Lucas, CEO, Hallmark Media; Soledad O’Brien, CEO of SO’B Productions and host/producer of “Matter of Fact with Soledad O’Brien”; and Rachael Ray, TV food personality and host of “The Rachael Ray Show.” In addition, Jim Nantz of CBS Sports received the Lifetime Achievement Award and AMC’s “The Walking Dead” was named the Iconic Series for 2023. Late past president of the Broadcasters Foundation of America, Jim Thompson, was posthumously honored with the Chairman’s Award for his career achievements and tireless dedication to helping broadcasters in need.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Weekend 101

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imIt’s the most effective tactic in marketing: Free samples. And the attorneys, financial advisors, real estate agents, veterinarians, and other ask-the-expert hosts who broker time for weekend call-in shows can drum up lots of new business…IF they execute well.

It’s a big “if,” because they’re not career broadcasters. So, technique that’s second nature to us is news to them. And because, at too many stations, there’s little or no coaching. Here are some of the fundamentals I convey to weekenders at client stations, and brokering hosts elsewhere who aren’t getting aircheck support:

— Plan each show. Re-write any news-about-your-topic or other material you will read, rather than reading verbatim paragraph-length excerpts from newspaper clippings or other source material you found on the Internet or elsewhere. That stuff wasn’t written for the ear. Put it into your own words. Practice aloud, to yourself, before the show.

— Remember: YOU are the expert. It’s Greek to them. So, avoid lingo and acronyms. Instead of percentages (“36%”) use fractions (“just over a third”).

— Listen carefully to the caller’s question. Don’t interrupt unduly…but don’t let ‘em ramble either. Once they’ve asked a question or described their situation, recommend what they should do.  Listeners in similar situations will relate.

im

Do’s and Don’ts:

— DON’T squander time at the beginning of the show with long hellos, or small talk about the weather (which aired at the end of the newscast just before your show began), or other off-topic blah-blah-blah.

— DO introduce yourself, and succinctly explain how you can help the listener. I tell weekenders I coach to begin with their elevator speech: “I’m Chuck Thompson, from Chuck’s Auto Repair, and I’m here to help you get more miles out of the-car-you’ve-already-paid-for.” If your business has a slogan, that should also be the mantra for your radio show, to keep your on-air message consistent with your other marketing.

— DON’T wait! Give out the call-in number right-off-the-top, even if your first segment is an interview or you tee-up a topic by reading news/product reviews/etc. During that segment, your call screener can be lining-up callers.

— DO solicit calls overtly. And announce the phone number real slowly, like you’re reading the winning lottery number. Say “call me right now.” And at the end of each call (unless all the lines are lit), offer that “that opens up a line for you,” and re-announce the phone number.

— DO get to the phones ASAP, best caller first. Callers call when they hear other callers, so nothing explains that it’s a call-in advice show like you answering callers’ questions with helpful advice.

— DON’T assume that anyone but you hears your whole show. Listeners constantly tune-in. So DO re-set throughout the hour. Come out of each commercial break as though the show was just beginning. “Welcome back to ‘Larry Explains the Law.’ I’m attorney Larry Jamieson, answering your legal questions right now on WXXX. So, call me! [phone number, nice and slowly, twice].”

All of the above is host technique. And there’s another character, behind the scenes, whose method is critical to brokered hosts’ return on investment: the call screener. Share with yours my 6-minute video at SolidGoldWeekend.com, where I also explain how to warm-up slow phones.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author “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

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

The 2023 Tennessee Radio Hall of Fame Banquet & Induction Ceremony will take place on Saturday, July 29 with tickets going on sale on June 1. This year, in the Legacy category, longtime WWTN-FM, Nashville personality Phil Valentine will be inducted posthumously, alongside E.G. Blackman (WLAC-AM, Nashville), Dick Ellis (WETS, Johnson City), and Sam Phillips (WREC, Memphis; WHER, Memphis).

Audacy’s all-news KYW, Philadelphia is hosting “Breakfast with the Candidates,” a 90-minute special program featuring five of the Democratic candidates for the city’s mayor, on May 4 at 8:00 am. Moderated by KYW Newsradio morning drive anchor Ian Bush, the event will also feature KYW Newsradio community impact reporter Racquel Williams, City Hall bureau chief Pat Loeb, and education reporter Mike DeNardo in asking the candidates questions about gun violence, schools, housing, leadership and more. KYW news director Kevin McCorry says, “The city is at a crossroads and with only days to go before the primary, no clear frontrunner has emerged. Philadelphians mulling their choice have one final broadcast forum to listen to as the candidates try to separate themselves from the pack, and we’re proud to offer the city this vital resource.”

Industry News

KRMG, Tulsa Doubles Down on Afternoon News Show

Cox Media Group’s news/talk KRMG-FM, Tulsa announces that it “will continue its dominance of local news coverage” by expanding the “KRMG Evening News with Skyler Cooper” to the 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm hours and rebrands the “The KRMG Afternoon News with Skyler Cooper.” CMG says, “Cooper is an 11-year KRMG veteran and took the role of host in 2021. In that time, he has become an informative and entertaining voice toim be trusted, picking up the 2022 Personality of the Year Award from the Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters earlier this month.” Station director of branding and programming Levi May comments, “Skyler is a Tulsa native and understands the landscape of our community and offers a unique perspective that you won’t find anywhere else. KRMG is dedicated to covering our community and this move shows our listeners that we follow through with our ongoing commitment to be their go-to for all things local.” Cooper adds, “I’m thrilled to expand our local news programming in the afternoons. Our listeners told us they wanted a change and we listened. We’ll keep the same news, weather, traffic, and talk that our listeners already enjoy, we’ll just be starting earlier!”

Industry News

WDBO, Orlando Expands Joe Kelley Show

Cox Media Group’s news/talk WDBO-AM/W297BB, Orlando announces the expansion of “The Joe Kelley Show” to the 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm hours, effective May 1. Station director of branding and programming Keith Memoly says, “As we embrace Joe Kelley and celebrate the expansion of his local radio show, we alsoim embrace the positive impact it will have on our community. With more time to share his insightful perspective and engaging personality, Joe will continue to uplift, connect, and strengthen the bonds that make our community thrive.” Kelley comments, “I’m really excited about the opportunity given to me by WDBO to help lead on-air discussions about such vital issues during such unstable times. Instead of talking points, I’ll just bring my natural curiosity about issues and life. Instead of screaming and yelling, I’ll engage our great listeners in compelling discussion about the day’s events. Instead of calling people names, I’ll welcome all opinions and ideas equally. Most importantly, I want ‘The Joe Kelley Show’ to be fun, interesting and easy-to-listen-to.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

The Seattle Seahawks announced today a multi-year extension with Bonneville Seattle Media Group to continue with “Seattle Sports 710 AM” and “KIRO Newsradio 97.3 FM” as the official flagship radio broadcast partners of the Seahawks. Bonneville Seattle SVP and market manager Cathy Cangiano says, “For nearly 50 years, the Seahawks and KIRO have shared a unique partnership and today we are honored and excited to once again extend our commitment to broadcast the Seahawks throughout the Pacific Northwest. Working together for so many years makes collaboration and innovation a natural part of what we do together. That spirit is present in the broadcast booth, in our respective front offices and especially in our community, where we seek to entertain and serve the 12s. Once again, we look forward to broadcasting the excitement of Seahawks football.”

Kaleidoscope and iHeartPodcasts, in collaboration with the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), announces the launch of a new eight-part series, “Silenced,” that re-examines the murders of radio broadcasters in Miami’s Little Haiti neighborhood in the early 1990s. The murders were never solved, leaving a wound in Little Haiti that is still open to this day. iHeartPodcasts president Will Pearson says, “We are proud to collaborate with Kaleidoscope on their impressive slate of scripted podcasts. Listeners everywhere have been drawn to these real-life stories of wild chocolate hunters, unsuspected astrologists and Russian cosmonauts, and we know ‘Silenced’ will do the same – hopefully leading to some answers as to who was behind these unsolved murders.”

Edison Research will present its annual “Moms and Media” study from The Research Moms in a webinar on Thursday, May 11 at 2:00 pm ET. Edison VP (and Research Mom) Melissa DeCesare will present the latest findings as well as emerging trends from the last few years. In addition to data from The Infinite Dial study from Edison Research, and sponsored by Amazon Music, Wondery, and ART19, this year’s research also incorporates results from a new, national online study.

NASCAR and SiriusXM announce a multi-year renewal of their broadcasting agreement. SiriusXM will continue to deliver 24/7 NASCAR content to its subscribers, including live broadcasts of every race, plus daily NASCAR talk and interviews with voices across the industry through its exclusive SiriusXM NASCAR Radio channel.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

iHeartMedia and P&G are again joining forces during Pride Month for the return of “Can’t Cancel Pride 2023 – The Future Starts Now,” an evening recognizing the LGBTQ+ community and celebrating organizations creating a more inclusive and equal world. The special event will feature performances from some of today’s hottest artists and appearances from influential voices in the LGBTQ+ community June 15 at the iHeartRadio Theater Los Angeles and remote locations across the country.

Award-winning public media journalist Tonya Mosley is been named co-host of “Fresh Air with Terry Gross,” the interview program produced by WHYY, Philadelphia and distributed by NPR. Terry Gross continues as executive producer and host. Mosley is a correspondent and former host of “Here & Now,” the midday radio show from NPR and WBUR, Boston, and the creator and host of the podcast “Truth Be Told.” She has been a regular contributing interviewer for Fresh Air since 2021.

Today, WNYC and Gothamist announced the new, thrice-daily podcast “NYC NOW.” The programs will present breaking news, top headlines, and in-depth coverage in three audio updates throughout the day. Each episode features WNYC and Gothamist reporters, editors, producers and hosts around New York City and across the region. “NYC NOW” is updated throughout the day in three, three-to-10 minute segments – morning headlines: WNYC newscasts available on-demand and on the go, midday news: expanded coverage of developing news stories, and evening roundup: a full collection of the day’s local news.

Industry News

TALKERS 2023 Agenda Update

The agenda for TALKERS 2023 is now posted subject to daily updates. Please check it regularly. The 26th annual edition of the talk media industry’s longest-running and most important conference will take place on Friday, June 2, 2023 on the campus of Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York in association with the prestigious university’s multi-award-winning station WRHU Radio. TALKERS 2023 will boldly address key issues – some existential – facing the talk radio and talk media industries at this dramatically critical juncture of rapidly accelerating technological and societal change, as well as identifying the remarkable opportunities inherent in these developments. It will also provide participants with unique and powerful networking opportunities. The all-inclusive registration fee covering convention events, exhibits, food, and services for the day is $379. Attendance is only open to the working media and associated industries as well as students attending accredited learning institutions. Due to space limitations and the commitment to maintaining an intimate environment, the conference is again expected to be an early sellout. Don’t be shut out!  See convention agenda, registration and hotel information here.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Audacy announces it will report its 2023 first quarter financial results before the market opens on Wednesday, May 10. The company will host a conference call and simultaneous webcast at 10:00 am ET that morning to review the results and recent progress against its strategic initiatives.

Hillsdale College announces the launch of the new podcast, “The Larry P. Arnn Show,” hosted by college president Larry Arnn who interviews distinguished guests to Hillsdale’s campus. It’s one of the school’s programs on its new integrated Hillsdale College Podcast Network that also features “The Radio Free Hillsdale Hour,” “The Hillsdale Dialogues,” and “The Hillsdale College K-12 Classical Education Podcast.” The show’s first guest is Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who visited Hillsdale’s campus on April 6.

PodcastOne launches the new podcast “Turtle Time with Ramona and Avery” starring reality television’s Ramona Singer and her daughter, Avery. PodcastOne president Kit Gray states, “We are thrilled to welcome Ramona and Avery to PodcastOne. Their mother-daughter relationship is enviable, and audiences will be wowed by their podcast. ‘Turtle Time’ is perfect for our platform, our audiences and our advertisers, all of whom have made it clear that this is the sort of content that they are looking for in podcasting.”

Audacy is gearing up for the 2023 NFL Draft with tomorrow evening’s “Audacy Draft Show” starring NFL Insiders Brian Baldinger and Jason LaCanfora, and produced by 2400Sports. Additionally, more than 12 of Audacy’s owned sports talk stations will have their own live and local draft shows, breaking down the first round for fans in several markets including Baltimore (WJZ-FM), Boston (WEEI-AM/FM), Buffalo (WGR-AM), Chicago (WSCR-AM), Cleveland (WKRK-FM), Dallas (KRLD-FM), Detroit (WXYT-AM), Houston (KILT-AM), Kansas City (KCSP-AM), New Orleans (WWL-AM/FM), Philadelphia (WIP-FM), Pittsburgh (KDKA-FM), and Washington DC (WTEM-AM), with many of those shows being available live in the Audacy app.