Webinar notes by
consultant Holland Cooke
BLOCK ISLAND, RI — JUST in time to remind the otherwise-forgetful that Her special day is just yonder, “The Research Moms” at Edison Research update their annual report. You can download it – or watch a video of Thursday’s narrated presentation – at EdisonResearch.com.
This survey defines “Mom” as having a child 18 or younger at home. Her average age 41. And her media habits are changed since – and because of – the pandemic.
Urban One First Quarter 2022 Net Revenue Rises 23%. Reporting financial data for the first quarter of 2022, Urban One, Inc. – parent of Radio One – says its net revenue was approximately $112.3 million, an increase of 23% from the same period in 2021. Broadcast and digital operating income was approximately $48.4 million, an increase of 33% from the same period in 2021. Net income was approximately $16.4 million or
$0.32 per share (basic) compared to $7,000 or $0.00 per share (basic) for the same period in 2021. Urban One CEO and president Alfred C. Liggins, III, states, “We had extremely strong first quarter performance across the platform, with advertising revenues up double-digit percentages in all of our operating segments. Digital revenues were up 49.5%, cable TV advertising revenues were up 46.9%, and radio advertising, excluding political and digital, was up 17.4%. This enabled us to grow Adjusted EBITDA by 38.9% year-over-year, and by $14.3 million or 51.6% vs. Q1 2019. Looking back at pre-pandemic revenues, when we aggregate our radio broadcasting, syndication, events and digital operations, net revenues were up 11.5% compared to Q1 2019. Second quarter core radio advertising is pacing up mid-single digits, as we start to lap the tougher comps from 2021. Our balance sheet continues to strengthen, with $166.4 million of cash and net leverage down to 4.07x.”
Cumulus Announces $25 Million Stock Buyback. On the heels of yesterday’s first quarter financial report and the board’s authorization of a $50 million buyback program, Cumulus Media Inc. announces its intention to commence a “modified Dutch auction” tender offer to purchase up to $25 million of shares of its Class A common stock, or such lesser number of shares of its Class A common stock as are properly tendered
and not properly withdrawn, at a price not greater than $16.50 and not less than $14.50 per share of Class A common stock, to the tendering shareholder in cash, less any applicable withholding taxes and without interest (the “Offer”). Cumulus president and CEO Mary G. Berner says, “Following yesterday’s announcement of the board’s authorization of a $50 million share buyback program, we are launching this tender as a first step in our capital return plan. This action is underpinned by our strong financial and operating momentum, our continued belief that the company is significantly undervalued and our desire to allow shareholders who seek it the ability to take advantage of the liquidity we can provide them. It is also our expectation that, even with this tender offer, we will be below our target of 3.5x net leverage by year end with significant continuing liquidity and financial flexibility for accretive M&A.” Cumulus will conduct the Offer by means of a procedure commonly called a “modified Dutch auction.” This procedure allows shareholders to select the price, within a price range specified by Cumulus, and the number of shares they are willing to sell at that price (or, should a higher price be determined as the “purchase price,” such higher price). The Offer is being made under Cumulus’s previously announced $50 million share repurchase program.
Saga Communications Net Revenue Increases 12% in Q1 of 2022. For the first three months of 2022, Saga Communications, Inc. net revenue increased 12% to $25 million compared to $22.3 million for the same period in 2021. Station operating income increased 17.8% to $5.6 million and operating income was $1.7 million compared to
$883,000 for same period a year ago. Saga reports net income of $1.2 million compared to net income of $758 thousand for Q1 of 2021. The company paid a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per share on April 8, 2022. The aggregate amount of the quarterly dividend was approximately $970 thousand. Additionally, the company paid a quarterly dividend of $0.16 per share and a special dividend of $0.50 per share on January 14, 2022. To date Saga has paid over $78 million in dividends to shareholders since the first special dividend was paid in 2012. Saga Communications reports that it had $55.2 million in cash on hand as of March 31, 2022.
Russia-Ukraine War Correspondent Gregg Stebben is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. Veteran media editor/reporter Gregg Stebben is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Stebben is a former longtime editor of Men’s Health magazine who served 20 years as its radio spokesperson. He is currently reporting on a volunteer basis back to the U.S. via the beamz.live platform from Poland
and Ukraine where he has been interviewing refugees and local citizens in both adjacent nations in addition to doing whatever he can to provide comfort and support to the frightened, displaced people in conjunction with international humanitarian groups. Harrison caught up with Stebben on the Ukrainian side of the border on May 2. They discuss the human element of the crisis and the catastrophic impact and escalating deadly potential of the war. Harrison states, “Not only is the information being gathered by Stebben of great value, he is a shining example of independent talk radio reporting in action serving as a one-man field unit reporting on the war while supporting Ukraine as a volunteer. I find his effort truly inspirational.” To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here.
Premiere of 2,000 Mules Takes Place at Mar-a-Lago. The premiere of Dinesh D’Souza’s documentary film 2,000 Mules took place last night (5/4) at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida as former president Donald J. Trump presided over the event. The film was executive produced by Salem Media Group and a number of its current and former talk hosts appear in the documentary. Pictured above are (from l-r): D’Souza, Sebastian Gorka, Eric Metaxas, Trump, Larry Elder, Charlie Kirk, and Dennis Prager.
Triton Digital Streaming Metrics Ranker for March 2022 Released. The Streaming Metrics Ranker for the U.S. for March of this year has been released by Triton Digital. The ranker is based on Average Active Sessions and charts the top 25 performing
digital audio publishers. For the daypart 6am-12am Mon-Sun, iHeartMedia leads the pack with 303,162 AAS. Some of the other radio-related companies appearing in the ranker include at #2 NPR Member Stations (81,035 AAS), #3 Audacy (69,281 AAS), #4 Cumulus Streaming Network (42,569 AAS), #7 Beasley Broadcasting Corporate (19,203 AAS), #8 Hubbard Broadcasting (15,233 AAS), #11 Salem Communications (9,591 AAS), #12 Urban One (8,577 AAS), and #13 Bonneville International 7,612 AAS). See the complete ranker here.
WCKG-AM, Chicago Owner Buying Time on WLS-AM to Reach Voters for U.S. Senate Campaign. Chicagoland radio station owner Matt Dubiel – whose company DuPage Radio LLC owns and operates talk outlet WCKG-AM, Elmhurst – is running for the U.S. Senate as a Republican and is taking an interesting tack in his campaign. He says in a press release that “in the spirit of former presidential candidate and
businessman Ross Perot, Illinois businessman Matt Dubiel has purchased airtime on Cumulus Media news/talk WLS 890-AM.” He will host a two-hour show every Saturday afternoon from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm until the primary election on June 28. Dubiel adds, “Nothing can replace the reach of radio. I’m consistently being shadow-banned on social media, corporate media refuses to cover my campaign, and the issues we need to discuss like CRT/SEL in schools, medical freedom, and other hot topics are virtually banned on social platforms that censor We the People, in America! The Illinois GOP even has me blocked on Twitter, and I’m running on their ticket! Hosting my own show on the radio home of Bongino, Shapiro, and Levin will allow Dubiel to speak directly to the people. The people in every county across Illinois need to know they have a guy who will actually represent them for a change. I am looking forward to talking to ALL Illinoisians about the issues that matter to them.” The 45-year-old Dubiel says he began his career in radio at 17, interning for the legendary Steve Dahl. He worked his way up through the radio ranks in Chicago, serving as a producer and talent, before transitioning into management.
Jeff Katz Show Honored by Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin. Pictured above is WRVA, Richmond afternoon drive talk host Jeff Katz (right) with Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin (left) as the governor recognizes the 6th anniversary of Katz’s “Lt. Jan McTernan Blue Friday Honors Program” that pays tribute to Central Virginia police officers by highlighting their positive contributions.
TALKERS News Notes. Radio pro Jon Zaghloul is being promoted to sports director at DuPage Radio LLC’s WCKG-AM, Elmhurst, Illinois. In this new role, Zaghloul will continue to host his weekend program “Sports Talk Chicago” on the station. He says, “I am honored to be a part of this exciting new challenge with WCKG. Over the past two years with the station, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the chance to provide Chicagoans with hard-hitting sports opinions and insightful interviews. Now, it is time to expand our iconic brand, and I am actively on the hunt for both fresh, and established local sports talent to bolster our daily lineup.”…..Los Angeles Comic Con, partners with iHeartRadio to produce the podcast, “Comic Con Meta*Pod.” The show launched on Wednesday (5/4) with a “May the 4th Star Wars” special featuring “Mandalorian” actor Giancarlo Esposito, “Clone Wars” and “Bad Batch” composer Kevin Kiner, and more. The podcast is hosted by Hector Navarro and art/culture critic Joelle Monique…..Pictured below is “Florida Man Radio” afternoon drive host Shannon Burke (left) with former New York City police chief Bernard Kerik (right). Kerik appeared on Burke’s radio show on Wednesday (5/4) and the two discussed Kerik’s former police chief role in New York City, working with Donald Trump, the January 6 Committee, and more. “Florida Man Radio” is broadcast on WDYZ-AM/W288CJ, Orlando and WZLB-FM, Fort Walton Beach.
Roe v Wade Leak/Protests, Fed Raises Interest Rates/Economy, Midterm Primaries/Trump & the GOP, Russia-Ukraine War, January 6 Investigation, COVID-19, and Dave Chapelle Attack Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/4). The leak of a draft Supreme Court ruling that would overturn Roe v Wade and the protests taking place around the country; the Fed raises interest rates a half percent and the effect of high gas and food prices; the primary elections for November’s midterm races and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and its effects on Europe and the global economy; Donald Trump Jr. sits for testimony before the January 6 committee; concerns about new Omicron variants causing a summer wave of infections; and Dave Chapelle is attacked while on stage at the Hollywood Bowl were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Cumulus Media 2022 First Quarter Net Revenue Rises 15%. Reporting financial data for the first quarter of 2022, Cumulus Media’s total net revenue for the period was $232 million, an increase of 15% over the same period in 2021. The company says it was the fifth straight quarter of sequential improvement in revenue performance versus a comparable quarter in 2019. Cumulus also reports a Q1 net loss of just $0.9 million, down from the net loss of $21.9 million reported in the first quarter of 2021. The broadcast radio segment is broken into two parts – spot, which rose 11.9% over the same period a year ago, and network, which was up 5.2%. The company’s digital segment was up 18%, led by digital marketing services (+35%) and podcasting (+22%). Cumulus president and CEO Mary G. Berner says, “Our outstanding first quarter results once again demonstrate the positive impacts of our ‘audio-first’ strategy to transform the company from a one-dimensional radio broadcaster to a multi-dimensional audio media company. Following a strong 2021 performance, this quarter’s results underscore our ability to deliver value to our shareholders through sustained profitable top- and bottom-line growth and balance sheet de-levering. We delivered sequential revenue improvement for the fifth straight quarter versus the comparable 2019 quarter, grew EBITDA by 250% year-over-year, and generated continued strong cash from operations, which collectively allowed us to achieve the company’s lowest net leverage in over a decade. Given our best-among-peers balance sheet, strong financial momentum and the company’s positive 2022 outlook, we expect ongoing cash flow generation that will support a meaningful return of capital to shareholders now and in the future. Accordingly, as a first step, today we are announcing a $50 million share repurchase program with a plan to commence share repurchases in the near-term. This capital return program is underpinned by our continued belief that the company is significantly undervalued.”
Cumulus Rejects Unsolicited Acquisition Bid. The last sentence of Cumulus Media president and CEO Mary Berner’s statement outlining its first quarter results says it all: “The company is significantly undervalued.” That was also the theme of a memo from Berner to Cumulus shareholders regarding the unsolicited offer from a consortium led by Connoisseur Media CEO Jeffrey Warshaw to acquire Cumulus. Berner says, “The
company recently received an indication of interest in acquiring the company for $15 to $17 per share. After a careful and thorough review, conducted in consultation with our financial and legal advisors, the board unanimously concluded that the indication of interest significantly undervalues the company and is not in the best interests of its shareholders. The company’s board is open to all paths that continue to drive superior shareholder value. Our strong momentum across business lines, multiple digital revenue growth drivers, operational efficiency and superior cash flow provide the company with substantial untapped upside that it expects to continue to realize on behalf of its shareholders. Given these facts and circumstances, the board unanimously believes execution of the company’s strategy will deliver significantly more value to shareholders than this indication of interest.”
Bill O’Reilly’s ‘No Spin News’ Debuts This Week. The Bill O’Reilly-hosted program from Key Networks debuts this week on 58 stations across the U.S. Key Networks says “No Spin News” is “a full hour of trailblazing journalist and bestselling author O’Reilly’s fair, smart, fact-based analysis” airing every weeknight. The one-hour show has been
airing in New York on 77 WABC for over a year under the title, “Common Sense with Bill O’Reilly.” The program now joins the suite of shows syndicated by Key Networks that includes: “The O’Reilly Update,” “The O’Reilly Update – Morning Edition,” and “The O’Reilly Update – Weekend Edition.” O’Reilly says, “We are beyond happy that radio stations from coast-to-coast are spreading the ‘No Spin’ mantra. We provide something that’s badly needed in the USA: honest fact-based analysis.” Key Networks COO Dennis Green comments, “Based on the success of ‘The O’Reilly Update,’ the marketplace was ready for more content from Bill O’Reilly. ‘No Spin News’ provides analysis on what is happening in the world that listeners want to hear. This is content you won’t get anywhere else, and I expect stations to add Bill O’Reilly’s ‘No Spin News’ in large numbers!”
WABC-TV, New York Opens Long Island Bureau at Hofstra University. New York City’s WABC-TV is opening a new, Long Island bureau today (5/4) inside the Lawrence Herbert School of Communication at Hofstra University. The small bureau will have a full-time reporter and two production trucks in Long Island, New York. WABC has a
history of supporting the journalism program at the university, donating significant quantities of valuable equipment and providing internship and career opportunities for many students. Hofstra students will have regular exposure to WABC journalists, expanded internships, guest lectures and seminars held by WABC 
professionals. The Long Island bureau, located in the newsroom of Hofstra’s award-winning, student-run radio station, WRHU-88.7 FM, reinforces WABC-TV’s commitment to Long Island, as well as the Herbert School’s commitment to community journalism, including the newly launched community news site, LongIslandAdvocate.com. Lawrence Herbert School of Communication dean Mark Lukasiewicz states, “Our journalism program emphasizes experiential, hands-on learning and encourages our student journalists to engage with Long Island communities to tell impactful stories. The Eyewitness News Long Island bureau, located alongside WRHU’s newsroom, will provide that kind of hands-on opportunity – a daily chance for students to observe and learn from great local journalists doing the work of New York’s top broadcast news operation.”
TALKERS News Notes. The nationally syndicated “Rob Carson Show” joins the 1400
Investments, LLC-owned Nevada Talk Network. The program, syndicated by Newsmax and airing in the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET daypart, is being heard on KELY-AM, Ely; KNNR-AM, Sparks-Carson City; KDJJ-FM, Fernley-Fallon; KPKK-FM, Amargosa Valley; KAVB-FM, Hawthorne; and KPVM-TV 
25.6, Pahrump…..The syndicated “Todd Starnes Show” – airing live from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET – adds new affiliate station KTXW-AM/FM, Austin “The Bridge” to its roster of affiliate stations…..FOX Nation – FOX News Media’s “on-demand streaming service designed to complement the FOX News Channel experience with a members-only destination for its most passionate and loyal super fans” – is premiering a documentary series about music and television industry star Sharon Osbourne in September. Titled “Sharon Osbourne: To Hell & Back,” the four-part program features “a candid and heartfelt look into Osbourne’s personal and professional life, highlighting how she found herself in the crosshairs of the cancel culture movement after exiting CBS’s ‘The Talk.’”…..SiriusXM is presenting nationwide, comprehensive coverage of the Kentucky Derby this Saturday (5/7). The wire-to-wire race broadcast of the Kentucky Derby is provided by NBC Sports Audio Network.
Roe v Wade Leak, Midterm Primaries/Trump & the GOP, the Economy, Russia-Ukraine War, COVID-19 Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/3). Reactions to the leak of a draft of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v Wade; the primary elections in Ohio and Indiana, the battle for control of Congress in November’s midterm elections, and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the activity on the world’s financial markets, the supply chain woes, and concerns about a recession; Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and the effects across the globe; and concerns about new Omicron variants and the possibility of a serious summer COVID wave were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Joe Gallagher to Return to WGY, Albany for Weekend Shows. The Albany Times-Union reports that talk host Joe Gallagher is returning to iHeartMedia’s news/talk WGY-AM/FM, Albany to host a one-hour program at 9:00 am on Saturday and Sunday
mornings. Gallagher was let go from the station in 2020. He’d served as the station’s afternoon drive host for years and was hosting weekends when he departed in pandemic-related staff reductions. WGY news and program director Jeff Wolf says, “He’s been gone about two years, and pretty much on a weekly basis I get listener feedback saying ‘Bring Joe back.'” Gallagher hosted a few special programs earlier this year and that started the ball rolling in getting him back on a scheduled show. Wolf adds, “We were thrilled. He was all about it and, obviously, we are too.”
Wilson Named Operations Manager for Cumulus Media Mobile. Radio programming pro Vincent “Mojo” Wilson joins Cumulus Media’s Mobile, Alabama station group that
consists of news/talk WXQW-AM and four music brands as operations manager. He’ll also serve as PD for WXQW-AM and CHR WABD-FM. Wilson was most recently director of operations for Southern Broadcasting in Florence/Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Cumulus Mobile VP and market manager Don Boyd says, “‘Mojo’ is a talented programmer and on-air personality with a strong track record leading urban, CHR, Gospel and news/talk stations. He will be an excellent addition to our top performing team in Mobile as operations manager of our five-station group.”
Greta Van Susteren to Moderate Newsmax’s Pennsylvania Senate Primary Debate. News/talk television personality Greta Van Susteren is moderating tomorrow’s Newsmax debate between the top contenders for the GOP nomination for Pennsylvania’s open
U.S. Senate seat that’s being vacated by retiring Senator Pat Toomey. The debate will take place on the campus of Grove City College in Western Pennsylvania in which Van Susteren will moderate candidates Dr. Mehmet Oz, David McCormick, Ambassador Carla Sands, Kathy Barnette, and Jeff Bartos. Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy says, “Pennsylvania is one of the most important states on the national map. And this race will have national implications, so we’ll be hosting this Newsmax debate live for all Americans to watch.”
TALKERS News Notes. Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that former Chicago Bears great Olin Kreutz has been let go from his contributor role at the new digital sports venture CHGO Sports after he physically attacked a fellow staffer on Monday (5/2). Kreutz is also a contributor to Audacy’s sports talk WSCR “The Score” and NBC Sports Chicago. Kreutz is apparently not disputing the incident. He tweeted a picture of Mike Tyson with the text: “Social media made y’all way too comfortable with disrespecting people and not getting punched in the face for it.”…..The National Association of Broadcasters announces that Alex Siciliano is joining the organization as senior communications strategist. Siciliano reports to NAB chief of staff and EVP of public affairs Michelle Lehman. In this newly created position, Siciliano will lead NAB’s public relations efforts on key advocacy issues, developing and implementing media relations strategies to advance broadcasters’ policy agenda before Congress and the Federal Communications Commission. Siciliano was most recently VP of communications at The Petrizzo Group. NAB president and CEO Curtis LeGeyt says, “Alex has years of experience in shaping and executing effective messaging campaigns on policy issues. Broadcasters will benefit from his deep advocacy background as he shapes NAB’s communications on the most important issues facing our industry. We are thrilled to welcome him to NAB.”…..The Freakonomics Radio Network names Neal Carruth as EVP and general manager. Carruth most recently led NPR’s news podcasting strategy, and his responsibilities at Freakonomics Radio Network will include helping to set the strategic and editorial direction of the organization. His hiring follows the March appointment of Gabriel Roth from Slate as editorial director. Carruth says, “For years now, I’ve been a serious fan of the work that Stephen Dubner and the team have done on the Freakonomics Radio podcast. I love the podcast’s combination of curiosity, rigor, and delight. I can’t wait to work with the team to grow the audience for the current slate of shows and to help them develop new properties. I’m so excited about this opportunity to help increase the reach and the impact of the Freakonomics Radio Network.”…..SiriusXM announces that entrepreneur, investor, best-selling author, and founder and CEO of Zuckerberg Media, Randi Zuckerberg, will host a new SiriusXM original podcast titled, “Crypto Café With Randi Zuckerberg.” SiriusXM says, “With cryptocurrency being a hotly debated topic, Zuckerberg’s new podcast will feature both casual and educational conversations with metaverse experts, tech futurists, and top business executives who will share industry tips and explain the skills and foundational knowledge necessary to navigate the crypto ecosystem safely and successfully.”
The Economy, January 6 Conviction, Roe v Wade Leak, Midterm Primaries/Trump & the GOP, Russia-Ukraine War, COVID-19, Musk & Twitter, and Western Drought Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/2). The state of the U.S. economy, including falling stock and bond prices, ongoing supply chain issues and employment; a retired New York cop is convicted of assaulting a police officer in the January 6 Capitol attack; the unprecedented leak of a draft decision indicating the Supreme Court will overturn Roe v Wade; the primary battles ahead of the November midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine; concerns about the rising rate of COVID-19 cases in some parts of the U.S.; Elon Musk’s attempt to acquire Twitter; and the impact of the Western drought on cities in the U.S. West were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Monday Memo: R.I.P. Bill Balls. “He’s the Central Casting baritone, shouting or growling-through whatever promo copy the station sends.” And consultant Holland Cooke warns that “because radio ratings – and your advertisers’ results – are a memory test, conformity is detrimental to station imaging.” In this week’s column – and now that we’re a Month into the MLB season – HC points to baseball’s unlikeliest success story as a template for freshening station imaging. Read it here.
Pending Business: Drop These Excuses to Earn More. Radio sales pro Steve Lapa writes in today’s column about two tired old excuses that no seller should be uttering in today’s media landscape. When negotiating rates, are you still arguing with your client using the phrases, “We don’t give it away” and “We have hard costs?” If so, Steve explains why this is dated and is only harming your potential commission. Read more here.
Sarah van Mosel Named EVP of iHeart Audience Network. Digital audio revenue pro Sarah van Mosel is named executive vice president for iHeartMedia’s iHeart Audience Network. She was most recently chief revenue officer at Stitcher, where she led podcast revenue strategy across SiriusXM, Pandora and Stitcher. The iHeart Audience
Network is iHM’s new audience-based buying service that provides advertisers with inventory “sourced from the expansive iHeartRadio database and other premium publishers across streaming and podcasting.” 
In her new role, van Mosel will assist with iAN sales operations, publisher development and podcast slate partnerships and will report to Conal Byrne, CEO of the iHeartMedia Digital Audio Group. Byrne says, “The iHeart Audience Network is the first and only audio marketplace that seamlessly unifies all forms of audio with one common set of audiences, and we’re thrilled Sarah is bringing her expertise, vision and talent to take these unique capabilities to their full potential for advertisers and publishers. She’s been at the forefront of innovation in podcasting from the very beginning and her unique perspective on the rapidly growing medium will ensure this venture becomes the premier service for all brands. The team is looking forward to seeing where she takes iAN next.”
Cumulus Media Ups Brian Philips to Chief Content Officer. Rising to chief content officer for Cumulus Media is Brian Philips, who has been serving the company as EVP
of content and audience since 2019. Cumulus president and CEO Mary G. Berner says, “Brian Philips is an exceptional executive and the perfect choice to lead our programming efforts as we continue to execute our audio-first strategy, which is transforming the company from a traditional radio broadcaster into a multi-dimensional audio media company. This promotion reflects Brian’s tremendous contributions, and I have full confidence in his creative vision, operational expertise, and savvy leadership to guide us through this critical evolution.”
TALKERS TIP. Excellent Correspondent Available for Interviews from War. News directors and talk show hosts take note. Gregg Stebben, who spent years being interviewed every month by talk stations all over the country as an editor for Men’s
Health magazine, is now in Poland and Ukraine as a volunteer doing radio interviews about the Ukraine situation. He’s available to be “Your-Man-in-Poland/Ukraine.” In an interview, he can talk about the situation with refugees in Poland and all over Europe, his personal experiences with Ukrainian refugees, and the mood in Poland and Western Ukraine. Are the Polish overwhelmed by absorbing almost 3 million refugees and/or terrified they might be next on Putin’s list? He can also talk about his trip to the Ukraine border, and what he’s seen and heard in Poland that makes him fear this Russian invasion will turn into a global conflict if Putin is successful in Ukraine. To schedule an interview with him: Gregg@Stebben.com, 843.722.3100 (cell or text).
WBAP, Fort Worth/Dallas Celebrates 100 Years of Service. Fort Worth/Dallas news/talk station WBAP-AM begins celebrating its 100th year of service to the market today (5/2) from its Victory Park studios. Station program director Bruce Collins says, “We begin the celebration today and have exciting things planned throughout the year to celebrate. WBAP has
meant so much to the DFW community. It is going to be a fun year.” The celebration was kicked off this morning as the “WBAP Morning News” team featuring Hal Jay and Brian Estridge welcomed back notable contributors, including former on-air talent and executives that “helped WBAP become a trusted leader in Dallas-Fort Worth.” The station plans to continue its centennial celebration with historical audio clips played on the station daily, the launch of a podcast series highlighting the key figures in the station’s 100 years, and a celebration in the fall. WBAP signed on for the first time under the direction of famed Fort Worth businessman Amon G. Carter on Tuesday, May 2, 1922, operating at 10 watts of power. Within the first six months, WBAP established itself as a service to the community, becoming the first station to air livestock market reports and weekly church services. As the station continued to evolve, WBAP would become the first to broadcast a rodeo, air remote broadcasts, and send a war correspondent to Europe in the early days of World War II. Additionally, WBAP was the first station with regularly scheduled newscasts. Today, WBAP operates as a 50,000-watt, clear-channel station operated by Cumulus Media.
Tom Webster to Leave EVP Role with Edison Research. Announced in his “I Hear Things” blog on Friday (4/29), Edison Research SVP Tom Webster will be stepping
away from his role with the company next month. He outlines his new professional goals, saying, “…I want to continue to work to establish a podcast industry: a place where established networks and independent podcasters alike have fair access to information, revenue, and opportunity. I think there are some structural issues in podcasting, and some information arbitrage, as well. I want to work on both of these issues, and help to create the sandbox I wish to continue to play in for years to come.” You can read it here.
The Economy, White House Correspondents Dinner, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, Russia-Ukraine War/Pelosi Visit, Elon Musk & Twitter, COVID-19, NFL Draft, and Naomi Judd Dies Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The state of the U.S. economy, high gas & food prices, and threats of a recession; Saturday evening’s White House Correspondents Dinner; the primary races leading up to the November mid-term elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and Nancy Pelosi’s visit with Volodymyr Zelensky; the controversy surrounding Elon Musk’s attempt to acquire Twitter; the rate of COVID-19 infections in the U.S., the debate over masks, and China’s zero-COVID policy; the weekend’s 2022 NFL Draft; and the death of country legend Naomi Judd after a long battle with mental illness were some of the most-talked-about stars on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President
PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — Here is a tip or two to help you increase your income.
Drop these two old school excuses from your sales banter and get closer to the winning side of your business interactions.
I am as serious as your commission check. What I am about to share, fresh from the field, is as old as your first pocket calculator with the same limitations of performance, yet I hear this day after day in my marketing work. It’s old, tired, and needs to go.
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
LAS VEGAS — No matter how well-planned the agenda, I’ve always found that the most valuable part of a convention is…convening, catching-up with old friends and making new ones. And being the first NAB Show in three years, this year’s event was OH-so-quotable.
“I know what transformational moments feel like, and now we’re in one…on the cusp of the best era for radio and for audio.”
By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President
PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — Last week was one for the media history books. For stock market watchers, last Friday was a nauseating roller coaster ride. In case you were off the grid, here’s just a taste.
Netflix lost $50 billion in value, CNN+ shut down after a month, Meta (Facebook) has already lost almost half its value, and Elon Musk may still wind up with Twitter. A top 50-market radio station we use in my marketing work raised rates by 250% as ratings slid.
March 2022 PPM Data – Information for the March 2022 survey period has been released for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.
Nielsen Audio’s March 2022 sweep covered March 3 – March 30
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 February 2022 – March 2022 (6+).
AUSTIN
News/Talk: Waterloo Media-operated KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 4.7 – 4.8, +.1, ninth to seventh
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” 2.2 – 1.7, -.5, #15 to #17
Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas-owned KUT 6.3 – 6.8, +.5, third to second
Number One 6+: Waterloo Media-operated adult hits KBPA, third month in a row, 8.7 – 10.0, +1.3
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: adult hits KBPA (+1.3)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classical KMFA (-1.8)
RALEIGH
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 7.6 – 6.7, -.9, third to fourth
Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” 2.0 – 1.9, -.1, repeats at #13
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 1.8 – 2.5, +.7, #15 to #12
Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 8.5 – 7.8, -.7, first to third
Number One 6+: Capitol Broadcasting adult contemporary WRAL, first month, 7.7 – 8.4, +.7
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: classic rock WRDU (+1.3)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: news/talk WTKK (-.9)
INDIANAPOLIS
News/Talk: Emmis’ WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 9.7 – 9.5, -.2, locked in the runner-up slot
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Emmis-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” (Pacers) 3.9 – 3.3, -.6, repeats in tenth-place
iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” flat at .9, continues at #19
Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 5.9 – 4.7, -1.2, sixth to seventh
Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK, third successive month, 12.1 – 12.4 +.3
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): country WLHK and alternative WOLT (+.7)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WFYI (-1.2)
MILWAUKEE
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 9.5 – 8.3, -1.2, continues at #2
Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Bucks) 7.6 – 8.2, +.6, fourth to third
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” 1.6 – 1.5, -.1, flat at #15
Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” 1.5 – 1.2, -.3, repeats at #16
Audacy’s WSSP “1250 AM The Fan” .8 – 1.0, +.2, steady at #19
Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 5.6 – 5.9, +.3, sixth to fifth
Number One 6+: Saga Communications classic rock WKLH, first month, 8.8 – 8.9, +.1
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: news/talk WTMJ (+.6)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classic hits/oldies WRIT (-2.0)
NASHVILLE
News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 7.2 – 6.8, -.4, repeats in the runner-up slot
iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 3.3 – 3.1, -.2, #11 to #12
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” 2.4 – 2.8, +.4, steady at #14
Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) .7 – 1.0, +.3, remains at #20
Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 6.0 – 5.5, -.5, sixth to seventh
Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult hits WCJK, third month in a row, 8.2 – 7.5, -.7
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): alternative WBUZ and contemporary Christian WFFH (+.8)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: CHR WRVW (-.9)
PROVIDENCE
News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 6.9 – 6.7, -.2, stays in fourth-place
iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” flat at .8, repeats at #17
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Celtics, and Bruins) 3.7 – 3.9, +.2, steady in eighth-place
Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 3.6 – 3.7, +.1, unchanged at #9
Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 2.9 – 3.1, +.2, anchored in tenth-place
Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN flat at 2.3, steady at #11
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia rock WHJY, second straight month, 11.1 – 11.3, +.2
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: CHR WPRO-FM (+.4)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease (Tie): country WKLB and classic hits-oldies WSKP (-.4)
NORFOLK
News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 2.3 – 2.5, +.2, #14 to #13
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.1 – 1.0, -.1, #18 to #19
Sinclair’s WTAR “Sports Radio 850” .3 – .4, +.1, continues at #20
Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty
Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, third month in succession, 10.6 – 10.4, -.2
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: rock WNOR (+1.2)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WVBW (-1.5)
JACKSONVILLE
News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 10.2 – 10.5 +.3, #1
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WOKV-AM “ESPN Jacksonville 690 AM” 1.2 – .7, -.5, #16 to #18
Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT flat at 3.7, #10 to #11
Number One 6+: news/talk WOKV-FM, third consecutive month, 10.2 – 10.5 +.3
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: country WQIK (+1.6)*
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: urban contemporary WJBT (-.9)
*Represents the largest February 2022 – March 2022 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
WEST PALM BEACH
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WJNO “News Radio 1290” flat at 2.3, repeats in ninth-place
Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 1.7 – 1.3, -.4, #11 to #13
iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 1.3 – 1.1, -.2, flat at #14
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” .6 – .4, -.2, #17 to #18
Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 3.2 – 3.8, +.6, seventh to sixth
Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF, third month in succession, flat at 9.6
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: country WIRK (+.9)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WEAT (-2.5)**
**Represents the largest February 2022 – March 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
GREENSBORO
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 5.7 – 5.1, -.6, carries on in fifth-place
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 3.6 – 3.4, -.2, ninth to tenth
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.6 – 1.5, -.1, remains at #14
Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WQMG, third month in a row, steady at 13.4
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: CHR WMKS (+.6)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: country WPAW (-.8)
MEMPHIS
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 3.0 – 2.5, -.5, #13 to #14
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 3.5 – 3.4, -.1, repeats in tenth-place and WMFS’ internet stream .7 – 1.0, +.3, #18 to #19
Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications’ WKNO 1.3 – 1.8, +.5, #17 to #16
Number One 6+: Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO, third successive month, 12.4 – 13.6, +1.2
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO (+1.2)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WRVR (-1.6)
HARTFORD
News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 5.3 – 5.1, -.2, seventh to ninth
Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” 1.1 – 1.0, -.1, #14 to #15
The internet stream of Audacy’s WTIC-AM, 1.5 – .6, -.9, #13 to #18
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 1.1 – 1.0, -.1, #14 to #15
Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 9.6 – 10.1, +.5, anchored in the runner-up slot
New England Public Media’s flat at .4, #19 to #20
Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 25th successive month, unchanged at 10.9
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: rhythmic CHR WZMX (+1.0)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: hot AC WTIC-FM (-1.5)
Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.
March 2022 PPM Data – Information for the March 2022 ratings period has been released for Portland; Charlotte; San Antonio; Sacramento; Pittsburgh; Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Orlando; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Kansas City; and Columbus.
Nielsen Audio’s March 2022 sweep covered March 3 – March 30
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 February 2022 – March 2022 (6+).
PORTLAND
News/Talk: Alpha Media’s KXL “FM 101 News” 7.7 – 8.1, +.4, fourth to third
iHeartMedia-owned KEX “News Radio 1190” 3.1 – 3.3, +.2, #14 to #13
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB flat at 8.9, first to second and KOPB’s internet stream 1.9 – 1.7, -.2, #19 to #20
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLTH, first month, 8.3 – 9.1, +.8
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies KLTH (+.8)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease (Tie): adult hits KYCH and classical KQAC (-.9)
CHARLOTTE
News/Talk: Radio One-owned WBT AM & WBT-FM “Charlotte’s News Talk” 3.3 – 4.2, +.9, #14 to #10
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Radio One’s WFNZ-FM “Sports Radio 92.7” 2.1 – 1.8, -.3, repeats at #16
Beasley Media Group-owned WSOC-HD3 “Fox Sports Charlotte” .4 – .5, +.1, #20 to #19
Public Radio News/Talk: University Radio Foundation’s WFAE 4.6 – 4.2, -.4, eighth to tenth
South Carolina Educational Television Commission-owned WNSC .5 – .8, +.3, #19 to #18
Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WKQC, second consecutive month, 6.3 – 6.6, +.3
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): news/talk WBT AM & WBT-FM and alternative WEND (+.9)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: CHR WHQC (-1.3)
SAN ANTONIO
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WOAI “News Radio 1200” (Spurs) 5.1 – 6.2, +1.1, seventh to third
Alpha Media-owned KTSA “Stay Connected” 2.4 – 2.2, -.2, continues at #14
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: Texas Public Radio’s KSTX 3.3 – 2.5, -.8, #12 to #13
Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM, second straight month, 7.1 – 8.4, +1.3
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies KONO-FM (+1.3)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease (Tie): CHR KXXM and rhythmic hot AC KVBH (-.9)
SACRAMENTO
News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM “News 1530 AM & 93.1 FM” flat at 6.5, anchored in third-place and cluster-mate KSTE “Talk 650” 3.3 – 2.8, -.5, #12 to #13
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Audacy’s KIFM-AM “ESPN 1320” .9 – 1.1, +.2, #19 to #18
Public Radio News/Talk: Capital Public Radio-owned KXJZ 4.6 – 4.2, -.4, sixth to eighth
Number One 6+: Audacy classic rock KSEG, third month in a row, 10.2 – 11.3, +1.1
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: classic rock KSEG (+1.1)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KBEB (-1.1)
PITTSBURGH
News/Talk: Audacy’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020 AM” 4.8 – 3.9, -.9, seventh to ninth
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan All Sports All The Time” 7.5 – 7.6, +.1, repeats in fourth-place
Public Radio News/Talk: Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting’s WESA 2.8 – 2.4, -.4, #11 to #12
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW, fifth month in succession, 10.8 – 11.4, +.6
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: country WPGB (+.7)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: adult hits WRRK (-1.3)
SALT LAKE CITY
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM “Talk Radio” 8.4 – 9.9, +1.5, #1
Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” 6.0 – 6.3, +.3, fourth to third
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: University of Utah’s KUER 4.1 – 4.6, +.5, tenth to sixth
Number One 6+: news/talk KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM second month in succession, 8.4 – 9.9, +1.5
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: news/talk KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM (+1.5)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classic rock KAAZ (-1.4)
LAS VEGAS
News/Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned KDWN “The Talk Of Las Vegas” 2.2 – 2.0, -.2, #15 to #18
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR 2.2 – 2.3, +.1, repeats at #15
Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies KKLZ, first month, 6.8 – 7.1, +.3
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): Spanish contemporary KRGT and similarly-formatted KXLI (+.5)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: hot AC KVGS (-1.2)
ORLANDO
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKS “Real Radio 104.1” 6.3 – 5.9, -.4, fourth to sixth
Cox Media Group-owned WDBO “Orlando’s News Talk” 1.6 – 2.1, +.5, #17 to #16
iHeartMedia-owned WFLF “Orlando News Radio” 1.8 – 1.4, -.4, #16 to #17
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WYGM “96.9 The Game” (Magic) 1.5 – 1.1, -.4, #18 to #20
Public Radio News/Talk: Community Connections-owned WMFE flat at 2.4, #15 to #13
Number One 6+ (Tie): iHeartMedia CHR WXXL, third straight month, 7.9 – 8.3, +.4 and co-owned adult contemporary WMGF, first month, 6.1 – 8.3, +2.2
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WMGF (+2.2)*
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: urban AC WCFB (-.8)
*Represents the largest February 2022 – March 2022 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
CINCINNATI
News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WLW “700 Cincinnati’s News Radio” 12.3 – 12.2, -.1, second to first and cluster-mate WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” 5.3 – 5.1, -.2, fourth to fifth
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WCKY “ESPN 1530” 1.1 – .8, -.3, repeats at #19
iHeartMedia-owned WSAI “Fox Sports AM 1360” .6 – .8, +.2, #22 to #19
Public Radio News/Talk: Cincinnati Public Radio’s WVXU 5.1 – 5.4, +.3, fifth to fourth
Number One 6+: news/talk WLW, first month, 12.3 – 12.2, -.1
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: hot AC WKRQ (+1.0)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WGRR (-1.5)**
**Represents the largest February 2022 – March 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
CLEVELAND
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTAM “News Radio 1100” (Cavaliers) 5.5 – 4.9, -.6, sixth to eighth
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” 4.2 – 4.3, +.1, #11 to #9 and WKRK’s internet stream 1.0 – 1.9, +.9, #17 to #15
Public Radio News/Talk: Ideastream’s WCPN 4.4 – 3.2, -1.2, #9 to #12
Kent State University-owned WKSU 1.5 – 2.2, +.7, #15 to #14
Number One 6+: Radio One urban AC WZAK, third month in a row, 11.1 – 10.4, -.7
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): classic hits-oldies WMJI and sports talk WKRK’s internet stream (+.9)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WCPN (-1.2)
KANSAS CITY
News/Talk: Audacy’s KMBZ-FM “98.1 FM News, Traffic, Weather” 7.8 – 7.3, -.5, first to second
Cumulus Media-owned KCMO-AM “Talk Radio 710 AM” .9 – 1.6, +.7, remains at #20
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Audacy’s KCSP “Sports Radio 610 Our Teams, Our Town” 1.5 – 2.3, +.8, #18 to #17
Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KCUR 6.5 – 5.7, -.8, continues in fourth-place
Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic rock KCFX, first month, 7.6 – 8.7, +1.1
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: classic rock KCFX (+1.1)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease (Tie): public radio news/talk KCUR; urban contemporary KPRS; and country WDAF (-.8)
COLUMBUS
News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WTVN “News Radio 610” 9.3 – 8.7, -.6, #1
News: iHeartMedia’s WYTS “Columbus’ BIN 1230” .3 – .2, -.1, #20 to #19
Sports Talk: Tegna-owned WBNS-FM “97.1 FM The Fan” (Blue Jackets) 8.8 – 8.6, -.2, remains in second-place and co-owned WBNS-AM “ESPN 1460 AM”.6 – .5, -.1, #17 to #18
Public Radio News/Talk: Ohio State University’s WOSU 8.3 – 8.5, +.2, repeats at #3
Number One 6+: news/talk WTVN, second straight month, 9.3 – 8.7, -.6
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: adult hits WODC (+1.5)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: CHR WNCI (-.9)
Up next: March 2022 overviews for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.
Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.
March 2022 PPM Data – Information for the March 2022 sweep has been released for Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.
Nielsen Audio’s March 2022 sweep covered March 3 – March 30
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 February 2022 – March 2022 (6+).
WASHINGTON, DC
News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 4.1 – 3.9, -.2, ninth to tenth
News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 7.3 – 8.7, +1.4, fourth to second
Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” 2.0 – 2.7, +.7, repeats at #16
Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU 10.8 – 9.6, -1.2, #1
Pacifica’s public radio news/talk-jazz hybrid KPFW .7 – .8, +.1, stays at #20
Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, third month in succession, 10.8 – 9.6, -1.2
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: news WTOP & WTLP (+1.4)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WAMU (-1.2)
BOSTON
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” 3.6 – 4.7, +1.1, tenth to eighth
News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” 6.2 – 5.5, -.7, fifth to sixth
Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Celtics and Bruins) 6.3 – 7.3, +1.0, fourth to second
Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” 2.7 – 2.6, -.1, #14 to #12
Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 4.3 – 5.0, +.7, repeats in seventh-place
WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.0 – 2.6, -.4, continues at #12
Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR, second month in succession, 8.4 – 9.2, +.8
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: news/talk WRKO (+1.1)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: CHR WXKS-FM (-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 2.9 – 2.7, -.2, #13 to #14
Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WFEZ, third consecutive month, 9.1 – 9.0, -.1
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): Spanish news/talk WURN and the internet stream of urban AC WHQT (+.4)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: urban AC WHQT (-1.0)
SEATTLE
News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” steady at 7.4, #1
News: Lotus Communications’ KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM “Northwest News Radio” 5.7 – 5.0, -.7, second to sixth
Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” 1.9 – 2.9, +1.0, #21 to #14
Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio’s KUOW 5.3 – 5.9, +.6, fifth to third
Number One 6+: news/talk KIRO-FM, third straight month, unchanged at 7.4
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: sports talk KIRO-AM (+1.0)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: country KNUC (-.9)
DETROIT
News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 3.2 – 3.4, +.2, #14 to #13
News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” (Pistons) 6.1 – 5.0, -1.1, fourth to eighth
Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Pistons and Red Wings) 5.0 – 5.7, +.7, seventh to fifth
Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 2.5 – 2.3, -.2, #15 to #17
Wayne State University’s WDET 1.9 – 1.3, -.6, repeats at #20
Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies WOMC, third consecutive month, 8.3 – 7.7, -.6
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): sports talk WXYT-FM and country WDRQ (+.7)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: news WWJ (-1.1)
PHOENIX
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” 5.4 – 4.6, -.8, third to fourth
Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” (Sun) 3.2 – 2.7, -.5, #11 to #16
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College’s KJZZ 6.3 – 6.8, +.5, second to first
Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KJZZ, first month, 6.3 – 6.8, +.5
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: classic rock KSLX (+.9)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: news/talk KFYI (-.8)
Note: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KESZ had been #1 the past seventeen months.
MINNEAPOLIS
News/Talk: Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” (Minnesota Timberwolves) 4.9 – 4.3, -.6, #7 to #12
iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” 3.2 – 3.6, +.4, steady at #14
Hubbard Broadcasting’s KTMY “My Talk 107.1” 2.5 – 2.6, +.1, locked at #15
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” (Minnesota Wild) 4.9 – 5.0, +.1, seventh to ninth
Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW 6.6 – 7.3, +.7, anchored in second-place
Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC KSTP-FM, third month in a row, 10.1 – 8.5, -1.6
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: adult hits KZJK (+1.2)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: hot AC KSTP-FM (-1.6)*
*Represents the largest February 2022 – March 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
SAN DIEGO
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” 3.3 – 3.8, +.5, #13 to #9
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” 1.0 – 1.4, +.4, #21 to #20
Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 6.3 – 5.8, -.5, second to fourth
Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KXSN, third consecutive month, 8.1 – 7.0, -1.1
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: adult hits KFBG (+2.3)**
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KXSN (-1.1)
**Represents the largest February 2022 – March 2022 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
TAMPA
News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” (Lightning) steady at 4.4, remains in seventh-place
Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” 3.6 – 3.7, +.1, flat at #11
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” 1.2 – 1.0, -.2, continues at #20
Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 3.3 – 3.0, -.3, #15 to #16
Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, seventh month in succession, 8.6 – 8.1, -.5
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: Spanish contemporary WYUU (+.8)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: rock WXTB (-.9)
DENVER
News/Talk: In the iHeartMedia cluster, KOA “News Radio 850” 2.6 – 2.0, -.6, repeats at #16; KDFD “Freedom 93.7” 2.3 – 1.6, -.7, #17 to #18; and KHOW “Talk Radio 630” 1.7 – 1.6, -.1, #19 to #18
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” (Nuggets) 2.7 – 2.3, -.4, #15 to #14
Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 4.2 – 4.6, +.4, locked at #7
Number One 6+: Audacy classic rock KQMT, second straight month, 6.6 – 6.8, +.2
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: hot AC KIMN (+1.3)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: Spanish adult hits KJMN (-.9)
BALTIMORE
News/Talk: WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” 3.2 – 3.6, +.4, #11 to #10
Hearst Television’s WBAL News Radio 1090” 2.8 – 2.4, -.4, repeats at #13
Cumulus Media-owned WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 1.2 – 1.0, -.2, continues at #20
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” steady at 3.8, eighth to seventh
Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 3.8 – 3.7, -.1, eighth to ninth
Number One 6+: Radio One urban AC WWIN-FM, second month in a row, 8.6 – 8.4, -.2
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: classical WBJC (+.8)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease (Tie): CHR WWMX and contemporary Christian WRBS-FM (-1.1)
ST. LOUIS
News/Talk: Audacy’s KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” 3.8 – 3.6, -.2, repeats at #11 and cluster-mate KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 3.4 – 2.6, -.8, #13 to #15
iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-FM “104.9 The Patriot” .8 – 1.1, +.3, #20 to #19
The internet stream of Audacy’s KFTK flat at .9, #19 to #20
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” (Blues) 4.7 – 5.2, +.5, tenth to ninth
Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 2.4 – 2.2, -.2, #17 to #16
Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting rock KSHE, third month in a row, 8.6 – 9.8, +1.2
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: rock KSHE (+1.2)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: news/talk KFTK (-.8)
Up next: March 2022 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
March 2022 PPM Data – Information for the March 2022 ratings period has been released for New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; San Francisco; Dallas; Houston; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario; San Jose; and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.
Nielsen Audio’s March 2022 sweep covered March 3 – March 30
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 February 2022 – March 2022 (6+).
NEW YORK
News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 2.9 – 3.8, +.9, #13 to #8
iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.9 – 2.6, -.3, #13 to #16
News: Audacy’s WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 4.0 – 4.1, +.1, repeats in seventh-place and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 2.6 – 2.4, -.2, #16 to #18
Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 2.6 – 3.1, +.5, #16 to #12
Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.6 – 3.4, -.2, eighth to tenth
Number One 6+: Emmis urban AC WBLS, third consecutive month, 5.9 – 6.5, +.6
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: news/talk WABC (+.9)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classical WQXR (-.5)
LOS ANGELES
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.0 – 4.7, +.7, seventh to fifth
News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 3.3 – 3.9, +.6, #11 to #7
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.5 – 2.4, -.1, #14 to #16
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, ninth successive month, 5.8 – 5.5, -.3
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: news/talk KFI (+.7)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: Spanish adult hits KRCD (-.7)
CHICAGO
News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” (Blackhawks) 4.6 – 3.5, -1.1, fifth to seventh
News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 5.1 – 5.5, +.4, third to second
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 5.7 – 5.4, -.3, first to third
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WVAZ, third consecutive month, 5.7 – 5.8, +.1
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): triple A WXRT and classical WFMT (+.7)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: news/talk WGN (-1.1)
SAN FRANCISCO
News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.9 – 2.4, +.5, #18 to #14
News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 7.3 – 7.0, -.3, continues in second-place
Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” 2.2 – 2.1, -.1, repeats at #15
Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.’s KQED 7.9 – 9.0, +1.1, first
Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KQED, third straight month, 7.9 – 9.0, +1.1
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): public radio news/talk KQED and country KRTY (+1.1)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KOIT-FM (-.8)
DALLAS
News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 2.9 – 3.2, +.3, #14 to #12
News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” 2.5 – 2.7, +.2, #18 to #15
Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) 3.4 – 3.5, +.1, #11 to #10
Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” 1.6 – 2.2, +.6, #23 to #18
Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 3.6 – 3.8, +.2, steady in ninth-place
Number One 6+: Univision regional Mexican KLNO, second month in a row, 7.2 – 6.8, -.4
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: adult hits KJKK (+1.1)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: regional Mexican KZZA (-.7)
HOUSTON
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” 4.8 – 4.3, -.5, flat at #7
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston-owned KUHF 2.8 – 2.7, -.1, repeats at #18
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, twelfth consecutive month, 8.1 – 7.5, -.6
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: classic rock KGLK (+.9)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: CHR KRBE (-1.0)
ATLANTA
News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 7.4 – 6.9, -.5, second to third
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks) 1.6 – 2.0, +.4, #18 to #17
Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” 1.5 – 1.7, +.2, #20 to #17
Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 3.1 – 3.5, +.4, #13 to #8
Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, third successive month, 8.8 – 8.1, -.7
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: urban AC WALR (+.8)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: contemporary Christian WFSH (-1.2)
PHILADELPHIA
News/Talk: Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 1.4 – 1.3, -.1, #19 to #20
News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 4.9 – 4.7, -.2, sixth to seventh
Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” 3.7 – 3.9, +.2, locked in ninth-place
Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers and Flyers) 3.6 – 2.5, -1.1, #10 to #13
WIP’s internet stream, 2.0 – 1.9, -.1, #15 to #16
Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 6.1 – 6.9, +.8, fourth to third
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM, second successive month, 8.0 – 8.2, +.2
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: urban contemporary WUSL (+1.2)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: Spanish contemporary WUMR (-1.7)
Note: Eight days into the March 2022 sweep (3/11), adult contemporary WISX became Spanish contemporary WUMR.
LONG ISLAND
News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 4.1 – 3.7, -.4, sixth to seventh
Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 1.9 – 2.7, +.8, #18 to #13
News: Audacy’s WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 2.8 – 3.0, +.2, #12 to #11 and cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 2.5 – 2.7, +.2, #14 to #13
Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 2.4 – 2.6, +.2, #16 to #15
Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic rock WAXQ, first month, 6.1 – 6.8, +.7
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: news/talk WABC-AM & WLIR-FM (+.8)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (-1.3)
RIVERSIDE
News/Talk: None in the top twenty
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, flat at .4, #20 to #19
Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC .3 – .2, -.1, #21 to #20
Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, third consecutive month, 9.5 – 7.5, -2.0
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: rock KCAL-FM (+.9)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KOLA (-2.0)*
*Represents the largest February 2022 – March 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
SAN JOSE
News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.3 – 1.8, +.5, #22 to #13 and cluster-mate KGO “810 AM” 1.8 – 1.7, -.1, repeats at #14
News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 5.0 – 4.4, -.6, fifth to fourth
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty
Number One 6+: Empire country KRTY second straight month 7.5 – 10.9, +3.4
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: country KRTY (+3.4)**
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease (Tie): Spanish adult hits KBRG and classic rock KUFX (-1.0)
**Represents the largest February 2022 – March 2022 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
MIDDLESEX
News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.3 – 6.8, +.5, first
News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 2.1 – 1.6, -.5, #14 to #18 and cluster-mate WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 1.3 – 1.2, -.1, repeats at #20
Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 2.5 – 3.0, +.5, #13 to #9
Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty
Number One 6+: news/talk WKXW, second month in succession, 6.3 – 6.8, +.5
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): news/talk WKXW; classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM; contemporary Christian WAWZ; sports talk WFAN; and the internet stream of Spanish tropical WSKQ (+.5)
Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: CHR WHTZ (-1.1)
Up next: March 2022 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.
Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.
By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President
PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — News and talk radio sellers are boring.
Sorry if I offended you. But that’s what I see in the marketing work I do.
It’s all about numbers on paper. If ratings are not part of the pitch, it comes down to a laundry list of predictable guests, a boilerplate bio, and whatever else is fast and easy.
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
BLOCK ISLAND, RI — And the hits just keep-on comin.’ “Hits,” literally! For a couple days, that Chris Rock-Will Smith moment upstaged even the horrors in Ukraine. And now the wife of a sitting Supreme Court justice is in hot water. Infamy is nothing new. Remember the congressman who said that “in cases of ‘legitimate rape,’ the female body has ways to try to shut that whole thing down?” Or when John Lennon said, “We’re more popular than Jesus?”
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
BLOCK ISLAND, RI — Too often, we — news/talk radio – are the bearer of bad news.
Criminal Trial Attorney and Radio Talk Show Host Arthur Aidala is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. Get ready for a deep dive into an analysis of the criminal justice system, Supreme Court politics, and the causes of spiking urban crime stats. Nationally famous New York defense lawyer and high-profile on-air TV and radio legal analyst, Arthur Aidala is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” For more than 25 years, Aidala has handled high-profile cases
at the investigative, trial, and appellate levels, including a famous win for NFL Hall of Famer Lawrence Taylor in the United States District Court, Southern District of New York, and obtaining a full acquittal of William Rapetti in the highly publicized New York City crane collapse case. Now he’s been recruited to join the airstaff at New York City’s “AM 970 The Answer” (WNYM) to host a daily one-hour power-packed radio show (“The Arthur Aidala Power Hour”) currently in its third month on the air. Michael Harrison describes Aidala’s air work as “nothing short of fantastic.” Don’t miss this fast-paced, content-rich example of why “The Michael Harrison Interview” has been a favorite of media enthusiasts and talk radio junkies around the world for almost seven years. To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here.
Triton Digital Releases Streaming Rankers for February 2022. The most recent streaming ranker report from Triton Digital is released for U.S. listening in February. Triton’s rankers are based on Average Active Sesions (AAS) – the average number of
sessions at any point in time in the reported time period, with invalid sessions omitted. AAS can be calculated by dividing Total Listening Hours by the number of hours within the reported time period (AAS=TLH/Hours in period). For the period Mon-Sun 6am-12am, iHeartMedia is the #1 publisher with 291,890 AAS. NPR Member Stations is #2 with 81,180 AAS, followed by Audacy at #3 with 65,774 AAS and Cumulus Streaming Network at #4 with 41,342 AAS. Other radio-related companies of note ranking in the top 25 include Beasley Broadcasting Corporate at #7 (18,423 AAS), Hubbard Broadcasting at #8 (14,884 AAS), Salem Communications at #11 (9,498 AAS), Urban One at #12 (8,084 AAS) and Bonneville International at #13 (6,783 AAS). See the whole report here.
Cumulus Boise Names Nancy Wirth Director of Sales. Radio and television sales pro
Nancy Wirth is named director of sales for Cumulus Media’s Boise station group that includes news/talk KBOI-AM/FM, sports talk KTIK-AM/K237HA “The Ticket,” and three music brands. Wirth most recently served as faith-based radio and TV group the Dove. She says, “Cumulus has always been the best of the best. I am ecstatic to be part of the Cumulus Boise team, and I look forward to working with everyone and growing in this dynamic company.”
Montemayor Joins Beasley Detroit as General Sales Manager. Another move in the sales department at Beasley Media Group Detroit as Lynn Montemayor joins the
company as general sales manager for the cluster that includes sports talk WCSX-HD2/W228CJ “Motor City Sports Talk – The ROAR” and four music brands. Montemayor spent the past four years as a partner & chief marketing officer Detroit-based marketing firm Fortysix/5. Beasley Detroit VP of sales Tina Murley comments, “We are thrilled to welcome Lynn Montemayor to the Beasley Detroit team. Lynn is a highly respected, industry professional that has a keen understanding of client needs and how to build winning marketing plans. She is the perfect addition to our amazing team in Detroit.”
iHeartMedia Partners with Super League Gaming for Metaverse Projects. Forging ahead with its endeavors in the metaverse, iHeartMedia announces a partnership with Super League Gaming – a network of metaverse games, monetization tools, and content channels – that “will leverage iHeartMedia’s massive North American sales force of 1,500 sellers in every major market nationwide, as well as its vast roster of partners, to bring Super League’s highly-sought-after ad inventory and influencer
network to brands looking to gain entry to the metaverse.” The two companies will also collaborate on the development and rollout of iHeartMedia’s “iHeartLand” virtual spaces and fan experiences across metaverse platforms as well as the distribution of Super League’s immersive new 3D and NPC (non-player character) ad units. The press release further states that “Super League will share its deep knowledge and insights on open metaverse gaming platforms such as Roblox and Minecraft. This includes the company’s robust suite of exclusive analytics to help guide the go-to-market plans and future-forward sales strategies for iHeartMedia’s portfolio of premium brand advertisers.” iHeartMedia EVP, digital distribution and platform partnerships Jessica Jerrick says, “As we develop and introduce our unique iHeart experiences in the metaverse this year, we’re thrilled to partner with Super League to create new and compelling ways to connect our brand partners to passionate fans in our virtual spaces and beyond. Super League’s expertise, coupled with their best-in-class ad tech and expansive inventory across Roblox games, puts them at the forefront of this exciting space and makes them an ideal partner for iHeartMedia’s new extensions in the metaverse.”
Alex Jones Being Held in Contempt of Court. According to numerous reports, including one from CNN, talk media personality Alex Jones is being held in contempt of court for failing to sit for depositions in the suit against him by families who lost loved
ones in the Sandy Hook School shooting. Connecticut Superior Court Judge Barbara Bellis ruled that Jones intentionally failed to comply with the court’s orders but so far has not issued a warrant for his arrest. Jones’ attorneys say he is being advised to remain at home due to medical issues, but his attorneys also confirmed in a court filing that Jones has been hosting his daily “Info Wars” show from a studio away from his home. CNN’s report says, “Until he sits for a deposition, Bellis ordered, Jones will have to pay fines that will start at $25,000 a day on April 1 and increasing by $25,000 each business day.” Christopher Mattei is the attorney representing a number of Sandy Hook families and he argues that Jones should be jailed until he is deposed to show that refusing the court’s orders “are not worth it.”
Jesse Kelly Participates in KTLK, St. Louis’ ‘Patriot Speaker Series.’ Last weekend, Premiere Networks nationally syndicated talk host Jesse Kelly participated in the inaugural “Patriot Speaker Series” produced by iHeartMedia’s news/talk KTLK-FM, St. Louis “104.9 The Patriot” and hosted by KTLK morning personality Jamie Allman. The event took place before a sold-out crowd of more than 300 guests and featured a conversation between Allman and Kelly, who chatted about their careers in radio and the latest news headlines, before taking questions from attendees. Pictured (from l-r) are: iHeartMedia St. Louis market president John Beck, Allman, Kelly, iHeartMedia St. Louis SVP of programming Gail Austin, and iHeartMedia St. Louis SVP of sales Libby Nolan.
TALKERS News Notes. Pictured at right is nationally syndicated talk radio host and
best-selling author Todd Starnes in front of The Ronald Reagan Ranch Center where he was invited to deliver the keynote address at an event hosted by Young America’s Foundation. He also delivered a speech to hundreds of college students at West Coast Baptist College near Los Angeles…..The new book from SiriusXM Urban View talk host Joe Madison hits the #1 position on the Amazon Political 
Literature Criticism book chart. Radio Active: a Memoir of Advocacy in Action, on the Air and in the Streets (Xlibris US, 2021) is described as “the story of Madison’s decades of activism, from his childhood in a segregated neighborhood in Dayton, Ohio, to interviewing Barack Obama in the Oval Office. It’s a delightful tale, a call to action and an eye-opening commentary on the racial divide that persists in America today.”…..Audacy expands its broadcast partnership with the New York Mets by making the Audacy app the exclusive free digital streaming home for all Mets games as part of WCBS-AM’s flagship partnership with the team. English and Spanish language broadcasts of Mets baseball will be available on the Audacy app for consumers within
the Mets broadcast territory and Mets.com beginning Opening Day on April 7. Audacy New York SVP and market manager Chris Oliviero states, “Following one of the most successful off seasons in franchise history, we’re thrilled to gear up for the 2022 season by making our outstanding coverage of the Mets even more accessible to millions of local fans. In the car, on their phone or however they may be listening – in English or in Spanish – the Amazin’ faithful will now have the ability to seamlessly catch every pitch during what is sure to be an exciting season.”…..iHeartMedia announces a slate of original podcasts as part of its My Cultura Podcast Network launching in partnership with award-winning actress, producer, director and activist Eva Longoria. The company says the upcoming shows further My Cultura’s dedication to celebrating and elevating Latinx voices, stories, and content creators like Longoria. The projects span across genres – two of the series will be hosted by Longoria herself, including an interview series and a food and culture show. Longoria, along with actress Dania Ramirez, will also executively produce a scripted podcast series based on a true story. SVP, head of production and development for My Cultura, Gisselle Bances says, “We’re incredibly excited about this partnership, and the growth of our network, as we continue to tell our stories and celebrate our Latinidad. We’re thrilled to partner with Eva as we continue to increase the representation and visibility of our community and cultura in the podcast industry and beyond.”…..TuneIn announces a newly inked, multi-year partnership agreement with Major League Baseball ahead of Opening Day that will – for TuneIn Premium subscribers – include live and on-demand game coverage of all 30 MLB teams, on-demand post-game analysis, Spanish-language broadcasting coverage, and spring training play-by-play coverage.
Russia-Ukraine War, Trump’s Putin Request, Gas Prices/Inflation, January 6/Ginni Thomas, Hunter Biden Investigation, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, COVID-19, Cawthorn Allegations, and West Bank Violence Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/31). Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and the war’s effects on the European and American economies; former President Donald Trump beseeches Vladimir Putin with requests for damaging information on President Joe Biden; the high price Americans are paying at the pump and in grocery stores; the January 6 committee’s investigation and Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas’ wife Ginni’s texts to Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows asking him to overturn the 2020 election; the DOJ’s investigation into Hunter Biden’s business dealings; the battle for control of Congress in November’s midterms and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the loosening of COVID-19 restrictions and concerns about the Omicron BA.2 variant; GOP Congressman Madison Cawthorn tells a reporter powerful Republicans invited him to an orgy and did cocaine; and the Palestinian-Israeli violence in the West Bank were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Geraldo Rivera to End WTAM, Cleveland Radio Show. The daily, local program that Geraldo Rivera hosted for iHeartMedia on Cleveland news/talk WTAM will ends after the April 1 program. Rivera has been hosting the one-hour show from 9:00 am to 10:00
am but will end the program due to his busy schedule. WTAM says, “Geraldo is a once-in-a-generation broadcaster, storied journalist, and tireless philanthropist. It shouldn’t come as any surprise that after his 50-plus years of broadcasting, the Emmy and Peabody Award-winning Rivera refuses to 
slow down. Unfortunately, with an increased travel schedule for the FOX News Network and additional production projects, Geraldo has decided that after nearly four years, the final episode of ‘Geraldo in Cleveland’ will air on Friday, April 1, 2022 from 9:00 am until 10:00 am on Newsradio WTAM 1100. Even though the WTAM chapter of his career is closing, Geraldo will continue to live in his adopted hometown of Shaker Heights, Ohio with his wife Erica and daughter Sol. We will always consider Geraldo to be a treasured member of the WTAM family and are honored to have had a front row seat to his storied career.”
WPHT, Philadelphia Raises $65,000 for Veterans Organization. Pictured above is the staff of Audacy’s news/talk WPHT, Philadelphia at the fifth annual “Talk Radio 1210 WPHT Travis Manion Foundation Radiothon” during which it raised more than $65,000 in support of veterans in partnership with the Travis Manion Foundation. The Travis Manion Foundation is led by veterans and families of the fallen that develops, unites and strengthens communities by training, developing, and highlighting the role models that lead them. The radiothon was broadcast live from Audacy corporate headquarters in Philadelphia on March 25 and was hosted by station talent, including Rich Zeoli, Dom Giordano, Dawn Stensland and special guest Ryan Manion, Gold Star Sister and president of the Travis Manion Foundation, along with the team at the organization.
Beasley Names Tim Jorgenson Integrated Sales Manager for Detroit. Sales pro Tim Jorgenson is promoted to integrated sales manager for Beasley Media Group’s Detroit operations. He was most recently the company’s national digital automotive
specialist. In his new role, he’ll lead the digital sales efforts of the company’s Motor City stations that include sports talk WCSX-HD2/W228CJ “Motor City Sports Talk – The ROAR” and four music brands. Beasley Media Group director of sales Patti Taylor says, “We are beyond excited to have Tim move into the position as integrated sales manager for Detroit. Tim’s depth of knowledge in the automotive industry, coupled with his skill and passion for digital, will drive Beasley Detroit’s efforts to the next level. Tim’s approach is thoughtful and smart – and our team is so excited to be working with him.”
TALKERS News Notes. Pictured here is all-news WINS-AM, New York “1010 WINS” brand manager Ben Mevorach (left) accepting the 2022 World Radio Day Award,
presented by the American Academy of Radio. The theme of this year’s award is citizens’ trust in radio. The award was established in 2018 as part of the worldwide UNESCO celebration of radio and its value in the lives of people across the world. Mevorach says of the Audacy station, “No station personifies the city of New York quite like 1010 WINS. We are thrilled to be recognized for our relentless dedication to our guiding principles of fairness, trust, inclusion, and information so that, together with our listeners, we improve the communities we serve.” Pictured with him are American Academy of Radio jurors Deborah Parenti, president, Streamline Publishing (center), and Heather Cohen, EVP, The Weiss Agency (right)…..A collaboration between iHeartMedia and European podcast studio Novel is producing the new program, “The Superhero Complex.” Hosted by David Weinberg, the series captures the rise and fall of Phoenix Jones, Seattle’s real-life, crime-fighting vigilante who infamously ascended from local icon and leader of The Rain City Superhero Movement, to a dejected and humiliated figure waiting for a verdict on a charge of selling MDMA to undercover cops. By day, Phoenix is a semi-pro MMA fighter — but by night, he slinks through the streets of Rain City, patrolling Seattle for crime amongst a motley crew of former soldiers, ex-cops, recovered addicts, and reformed criminals. As remarkable a group and a mission as The Rain City Superhero Movement was, ultimately, the truth behind the myth is far more complicated. Told with a balance of in-depth reportage and empathetic character study, “The Superhero Complex” reveals the betrayals, crumbling marriage, and career-ending drug charge that underscored the legacy of Phoenix Jones — confronting our society’s fascination with superheroes and figures beyond the law in the process…..C13Originals, the Peabody Award-nominated documentary division of podcast studio Cadence13, an Audacy company, announces the launch of “Origins: HBO: Present, Past, and Future,” the seventh chapter of the podcast series written and hosted by award-winning journalist and bestselling author James Andrew Miller, featuring new interviews with the most important figures who shaped HBO’s half-century drive to fundamentally change television. In his recent, critically acclaimed book Tinderbox: HBO’s Ruthless Pursuit of New Frontiers, Miller told the explosive and uninhibited true story of HBO and how it burst onto the American scene and screen to detonate a revolution and transform our relationship with television forever. Now, in “Origins: HBO: Present, Past, and Future,” Miller offers new material and interviews with top executives, programming chiefs, and executive producers for a deep dive on the business side of the blockbuster media company that has revolutionized the industry time and again.
Russia-Ukraine War, Recession Fears/Soaring Consumer Prices, Biden Budget/Tax Hike, Florida ‘Don’t Say Gay’ Law, Hunter Biden Investigation, COVID-19, January 6 Probe, Will Smith-Chris Rock Incident Aftermath, and Big Tech Antitrust Legislation Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/29). Russia’s continuing invasion of Ukraine and its effects on the rest of the world; financial experts fear a recession is imminent and Americans bemoan high gas and food prices; President Joe Biden unveils his fiscal 2023 budget that includes a new tax on the wealthiest Americans; the controversy over Florida’s law that prohibits schools from discussing sexuality in grades K-3; the ongoing Justice Department investigation into Hunter Biden’s foreign business activities; concerns about the Omicron BA.2 variant that’s sweeping the UK and parts of Asia; the investigation into the January 6 Capitol assault and a judge’s ruling that Donald Trump “more likely than not” intended to obstruct the election certification; the aftermath of Will Smith’s assault on Chris Rock at the Oscars; and the Department of Justice endorses antitrust proposals designed to prevent big tech from giving preferential treatment to their own products were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
KMOX, St. Louis Talk Host Charlie Brennan to Retire. Longtime KMOX, St. Louis talk radio personality Charlie Brennan announced to his listeners on Monday (3/28) that after nearly 34 years on the station, he will retire from his radio gig after his May 12
program. The Audacy station posted a story about Brennan’s retirement on its website that notes Brennan was hired in 1988 to work evenings and weekends and that, within two years, he was hosting the mid-morning show where he’s been ever since. It also recognizes Brennan’s community efforts, especially his local clean-up projects. In 2020, Brennan launched a four-day 
KMOX campaign raising $85,000 for Cardinal Children’s Hospital with assistance from actress Jenna Fisher, singer Michael McDonald, talk show host Andy Cohen, Olympian Jackie Joyner-Kersee, and comic Nikki Glazer. Over the years he’s helped raise funds and distribute supplies for flood victims both in the St. Louis region and other parts of the country; influenced legislation regarding traffic cameras, medical benefits, and food vendors; plus he’s organized five campaigns sending care packages to troops serving overseas. Brennan is the author of four books. Brennan also is a host of KETC-TV, St Louis’ “Donnybrook” program, among the highest-rated, locally-produced talk shows on PBS, a program he will continue to be a part of.
Compass Media Networks Promotes Nancy Abramson to SVP Sales & Content. Radio syndication pro Nancy Abramson is promoted to senior vice president of affiliate sales and content for Compass Media Networks. Abramson, who joined the company
in 2014, will continue to be based out of the company’s New York office and will continue to spearhead its affiliate sales and affiliate marketing for select entertainment programming, including “DeDe in the Morning,” “Anna & Raven,” as well as services, including the Yamanair platform. Abramson comments, “The most important part of any job is that you are in a position where you admire, learn, and are stimulated by the people you work with – executives, colleagues, and clients. And if you are in sales, having great products to sell makes the job even more rewarding. I have all that at Compass Media Networks.” Prior to joining Compass, Abramson served as executive director of the Dow Jones/Wall Street Journal Radio Networks.
Mai Martinez Named Morning Co-Anchor at Chicago’s WBBM Newsradio. Television news pro Mai Martinez is named morning co-anchor and reporter for Audacy’s all-news WBBM Newsradio (WCFS-FM/WBBM-AM), effective April 4. In this
role, Martinez will spend much of her time in the field, covering the diverse communities of Chicago, while also teaming with Cisco Cotto each morning from 6:00 am to 9:00 am. Audacy Chicago regional president and market manager Rachel Williamson says, “This is a dream team of two experienced, talented journalists. Mai has a knack for uncovering the details that resonate with the people of this city. Together, she and Cisco have a passion for news plus warm and inviting voices that will greet our listeners each and every morning.” Prior to this role, Martinez spent 14 years as a general assignment reporter and weekend anchor at WBBM-TV. She comments, “Like so many Chicagoans, WBBM Newsradio has been a constant in my home and car for years. I’m honored to join such a talented team of hardworking and trusted journalists and continue the important work of informing and serving our community.”
Westwood One and NFL Renew Audio Media Partnership. Radio syndicator Westwood One and the National Football League announce the extension and expansion of their partnership with a new multi-year agreement. Westwood One, the official network audio broadcast partner of the NFL for more than 35 consecutive seasons and 50 years overall, will continue to provide play-by-play coverage for
“Monday Night Football,” “Sunday Night Football,” “Thursday Night Football,” plus Thanksgiving Day, select international games, and the entire postseason including the Super Bowl. New elements of the deal include: Westwood One’s NFL primetime game broadcasts will be available free to fans on affiliated stations’ primary digital platforms and on the NFL App; Westwood One will offer expanded coverage of NFL tentpole events throughout the year, including NFL Honors, NFL Combine, NFL Draft, and NFL Schedule Release; and Westwood One and the NFL will explore creating new alternate game broadcasts in addition to the traditional Westwood One play-by-play. Westwood One president and Cumulus Media EVP corporate marketing Suzanne Grimes says, “What an honor it is for Westwood One to continue our multi-decade programming relationship with our iconic NFL partners by extending our exclusive network audio broadcast rights. Equally exciting is the opportunity to further grow our NFL fan base by expanding our relationship to include digital distribution rights as well as innovative, new content opportunities.”
Todd Starnes Show Gets Praise from Donald Trump. Pictured above is nationally syndicated talk radio host Todd Starnes (right) providing commentary from Donald Trump’s Commerce, Georgia rally on Newsmax TV. Starnes, who also spoke at the rally, says Trump, who has been a regular guest on his program, has praised his show.
Save a Life, Maybe Your Own. Radio pro and consultant Jon Quick writes in a piece for TALKERS magazine today not about programming talk radio as he’s done recently, but about a simple test he took that likely extended his life. Quick recently underwent quadruple bypass surgery after a heart scan revealed serious blockage in several of his arteries. Thanks to the test, he’s on the mend. And now, he’s an evangelist for this simple heart test. Read more here.
Audacy Launches Two New MLB Podcasts. A partnership between Audacy’s sports podcast studio and Major League Baseball results in the launch of two new programs: “Inside the Monster” and “Beat the Streak Daily: Inside the Hits.” “Inside the Monster” is
a collaboration with the Boston Red Sox, hosted by Steve Perrault and Joey Copponi, that will have unprecedented access to Red Sox players, club personnel, reporters, front-office and beyond. Inspired by MLB’s popular “Beat the Streak” fantasy game where fans complete by picking players they think will get a hit each day in pursuit of breaking the all-time hitting streak record of 56 games, “Beat the Streak Daily: Inside the Hits” breaks down each day’s leaderboard and looks at stories that are developing around hitting. It’s hosted by WSCR, Chicago personality Matt Spiegel.
Russia-Ukraine War, Gas Prices/Inflation, COVID-19, January 6 Investigation, Midterms/ Trump & the GOP, and Will Smith-Chris Rock Incident Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/28). Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the possible poisoning of Ukrainian negotiators, and blowback over President Joe Biden’s saying Vladimir Putin must not stay in power; high gas prices and inflation pushing consumer retail prices up; concerns about the Omicron BA.2 variant; federal Judge David Carter issues ruling that Donald Trump “more likely than not” tried to subvert the 2020 election; the battle for control of Congress in November’s midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; and Will Smith’s assault on Chris Rock at Sunday’s Oscars ceremony were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Monday Memo: Is Your Show the Dog? Or the Tail? “Spoiler Alert: Both!” consultant Holland Cooke reckons. As radio faces new audio competitors, HC follows up last week’s column “Weekend Warriors: Renegotiate” by outlining tactics that make ask-the-expert hosts sound popular and preeminent and leverage on-air shows to the digital on-demand platform listeners and advertisers increasingly favor. Read more here.
Pending Business: Marketing Madness. Radio sales pro Steve Lapa writes in today’s column about the innovation that’s taken place in the static advertising realm – bus shelters and taxi tops, for example. He says that talk radio also has the ability to create innovative marketing opportunities for clients within its own technological parameters. In fact, it’s crucial to competing. “Developing and presenting unique, cutting-edge sales and marketing solutions is a relationship builder that can cement a long-term bond,” he says. Read more here.
Beasley Media Group Names Kevin Rich VP of Operations. Radio executive Kevin Rich joins Beasley Media Group as vice president of operations, effective April 18, 2022. Rich was most recently market president and chief revenue and content officer at Townsquare Media’s Albany operations in which he was responsible for overseeing and
managing the market with a focus on generating revenue across the company’s media and entertainment platforms. In his new role with Beasley, Rich will work closely with company president Bruce Beasley, chief operating officer Brian Beasley and vice president of operations Brad 
Beasley in overseeing the day-to-day business of the company’s 62 radio stations and multiple platforms. Company CEO Caroline Beasley says, “It’s an absolute privilege to welcome Kevin into our Beasley Media Group family. His credentials and leadership skills are the perfect fit with our organization. We look forward to Kevin sharing his outstanding strategic skill set, especially on the digital side of the business, with our teams across the organization.” Rich comments, “I am thrilled to join the Beasley Media family at a pivotal moment in the company’s growth. This is an exciting time for our industry, and I am honored to be joining such a talented team as we continue to deliver the very best content, provide comprehensive solutions to advertisers, and strengthen our market presence in the communities we serve.”
Detroit News Radio Pro Ken Rogulski Joins WHMI-FM, Howell as News Director. Radio news pro Ken Rogulski is named news director and morning drive news anchor at Krol Communications’ full-service/classic hits WHMI-FM, Howell, Michigan. Rogulski
has held down a number of assignments at WJR-AM, Detroit for almost two decades including newscaster, street reporter, fill-in talk show host for the late Frank Beckmann, and performing his live annual broadcast from the policy conference on Mackinac Island. He is recipient of numerous awards from the Michigan Association of Broadcasters, The Associated Press and The Society of Professional Journalists as well as having been a correspondent for ABC News and Westwood One News. Rogulski will lead the news staff that includes Jessica Mathews, Mike Kruzman, and Tom Tolen.
WLW, Cincinnati Celebrates 100 Years. The iHeartMedia station that was once a 500,000-watt signal dubbed “The Nation’s Station” celebrated its 100th birthday on
March 23. WLW, Cincinnati is one of a number of heritage stations that launched in 1922. iHeartMedia’s WGY, Albany also celebrated its 100th this year. “Radio’s Best Friend” Art Vuolo has two WLW videos that TALKERS readers may find interesting. The first is from a WLW Radio reunion produced in March of 2020 by Vuolo and current Nexstar Media executive Sean Compton. The second is a tour of the station’s transmitter with Randy Michaels produced on December 9, 1985.
WWL, New Orleans to Commemorate 100th Year of Broadcasting. As NOLA.com reports, New Orleans news/talk WWL-AM is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its first broadcast on March 31, 1922. WWL was the first station to serve the lower Mississippi
River valley. The NOLA piece notes that “WWL was an outgrowth of physics experiments and wireless radio classes offered at Loyola University as early as 1907. On March 31, 1922, WWL’s first broadcast from Loyola’s Marquette Hall consisted of an on-air fundraising appeal from Father Edward Cummings, S.J., Loyola University’s president, followed by someone playing a few songs on an upright piano.” Loyola operated the station until 1989 when it sold the station and its sister WLMG-FM to Keymarket Communications.
TALKERS News Notes. A partnership between iHeartMedia and Collab Inc will result in the creation of Curativity, LLC, a new podcast studio publishing creator-centric shows with Collab’s top talent, as well as the debut a new slate of family shows. The Curativity kids slate will kick off with three shows featuring popular kids Collab talent Mr. Jim, including a new weekly series, “Spyology Squad,” set to launch April 4. In addition, the kids’ programs, “Kids Animal Stories,” and “Kids Short Stories,” will join the slate…..Milwaukee Board of School Directors-owned triple A WYMS-FM, Milwaukee “88Nine Radio Milwaukee” expands its flagship “Community Stories” program into a full-length weekly podcast called, “Uniquely Milwaukee.” The podcast launch is part of Radio Milwaukee’s 15th birthday celebration this year, growing a program that has been a part of its mission-driven offerings since 2007. The first episode of “Uniquely Milwaukee” centers on bodegas in the city. Station director of content Nate Imig says, “‘Community Stories’ are a beloved part of Radio Milwaukee. By expanding this content into a weekly thematic podcast, ‘Uniquely Milwaukee’ will greatly increase the amount of stories we’re able to share with listeners.”
Ukraine Song Getting Airplay, Garnering Downloads. A song penned by Streamline
Publishing chairman and CEO Eric Rhoads is getting airplay on radio stations in the U.S. and has also been one of the most downloaded songs the past couple of weeks. Rhoads, whose company publishes radio trades Radio Ink and RBR-TVBR, says he decided “we needed a ‘we are the world’ kind of anthem. I wrote a title called, ‘Tears for Ukraine,’ and some lyrics. I then went to Billy Craig, he co-wrote with me and produced it.” You can hear the song here.
Russia-Ukraine War, Biden at NATO, COVID-19, Gas Prices/Inflation, Brown Confirmation Hearings, Ginni Thomas and January 6, Midterms and Trump & the GOP, and the Oscars Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine; President Joe Biden calls for Vladimir Putin to be removed from power at NATO conference; concerns about the Omicron BA.2 variant that’s rampant in the U.K. and parts of Asia; Americans’ frustration over high gas prices and the high cost of consumer retail goods; the aftermath of the confirmation hearings for Supreme Court nominee Katanji Jackson Brown; the January 6 committee’s investigation and texts between Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas’ wife Ginni and Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows in which she appears to urge him to overturn the 2020 election results; the battle for control of congress in November’s midterm elections and speculation about Donald Trump’s potential 2024 run; and Sunday night’s Oscars telecast were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to research from TALKERS magazine.
By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President
PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — Have you noticed the marketing driving the madness this March? The marketing machine seems to be present everywhere — especially the sports book marketing. It’s reinventing how marketers use some old school media.
Last time we noticed, our friends in the bus shelter business simply painted bus bench backs or posted large signage in the bus shelters. This static advertising supported branding, location-based ads, and in the case of the old school bus bench, catchy phrase, logo or headshot and phone number.
NOW POSTED: This Weekend’s Installment of “The Michael Harrison Wrap: An Overview of the National Conversation.” The latest installment of the one-hour weekend special, “The Michael Harrison Wrap,” that looks back each week at the hottest topics discussed in American talk media per the research of TALKERS, is now posted. This new episode titled, “Midnight in Moscow,” looks back at this past week of 3/21 to 3/25. The program features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS; Jennifer Horn, talk show host, KRLA (AM 860 The Answer), Los Angeles; Martha Zoller, talk show host, WDUN, Gainesville, GA; Victoria Jones, executive director, DC Radio Company; and Ivan Pentchoukov, national editor, The Epoch Times. The show airs weekends on WONK-FM, Washington, DC; WTIC, Hartford; KSCO, Santa Cruz, CA; KDFD, Denver; KFNX, Phoenix; KTLK-FM, St. Louis; WPG, Atlantic City, NJ; SuperTalk 99.7 WTN, Nashville; KMZQ, Las Vegas; WTPL, Manchester, NH; WEMJ, Laconia, NH; WTSN, Dover-Portsmouth, NH; WVLY, Wheeling, WV; WTRW-FM, Scranton/Wilkes Barre, PA; WVOX, Westchester, NY; KBDT, Dallas; KQSP, Minneapolis; WGDJ, Albany, NY; WJFN-FM, Richmond, VA; WZFG, Fargo; KTGO, Tioga, ND; KWAM, Memphis; K-NEWS, San Luis Obispo; WGMD, Rehoboth Beach, DE; WCHM, Clarkesville, GA; WPHM, Port Huron, MI; KSYL, Alexandria, LA; KTOE, Mankato, MN; WCED, DuBois, PA; K-NEWS 101.3, Owensboro, KY; WWTK, Sebring, FL; WSAR-AM/FM, Fall River, MA; WIZM-AM/FM, La Crosse, WI; WMVA, Martinsville, VA; KQEN, Roseburg, OR; the Virginia Talk Radio Network; CRN Digital Talk Radio Network; Podcast Radio UK and many more. To listen to this week’s episode, please click here. To view the latest TALKERS topic research, please click here. “The Michael Harrison Wrap” is now available in syndication via Talk Media Network to stations across America on a market exclusive basis. For affiliation information, please click here or call 616-884-8616.
Townsquare Media to Acquire Cherry Creek Broadcasting for $18.75 Million. This deal for Townsquare Media, Inc. to acquire Cherry Creek Broadcasting LLC for $18.75 million will add assets including 35 radio stations in nine markets to Townsquare’s portfolio, which will include 356 stations in 74 markets when the deal is closed sometime in the third quarter of this year. To accomplish the transaction, and due to FCC ownership regulations, Townsquare will divest six radio stations in Missoula, Montana, to Anderson Broadcasting, Legacy Broadcasting (a non-profit
organization), and Missoula Community Radio (also a non-profit organization), and place two radio stations in Tri-Cities, Washington in a divestiture trust. Townsquare says this transaction solidifies its position as the only local media and digital marketing solutions company of scale focused principally on markets outside of the top 50 in the United States, a vital differentiator for the company. Company CEO Bill Wilson comments, “We are very excited to announce the acquisition of Cherry Creek’s market leading local media 
brands. The acquisition includes many local heritage brands with strong competitive positions, meaningful audience share, and very talented local teams. This represents an excellent opportunity to deploy our Digital First Local Media strategy across a broader footprint, bringing our national scale, strong digital platform, and resources to the local communities and local businesses in these markets, building upon the strong relationships these local teams have already built with their communities. We look forward to accelerating the digital growth in these markets as we implement our flywheel of powerful and effective marketing and advertising (digital and radio) solutions and technology platforms, in combination with our highly relevant, localized content on air and online. We believe this acquisition furthers our goal of being the #1 Digital First Local Media Company in markets outside of the top 50 in the United States.” This transaction is being funded with cash on hand and Townsquare CFO Stuart Rosenstein states, “This acquisition represents a compelling use of capital that aligns with our priorities of investing in our local business through both organic investments and prudent acquisitions that support our revenue and profit growth. This acquisition is net leverage neutral and due to the strong cash generation of our business and the acquired assets, will not impact our ability to reach our goal of 4x net leverage by year end.” The Cherry Creek LLC stations in this deal are located in the following markets: Butte, Great Falls, and Missoula, Montana; Montrose, Colorado; Sierra Vista, Arizona; St. George-Cedar City, Utah; Tri-Cities and Wenatchee, Washington; and Williston, North Dakota.
Round Four of February PPM Ratings Released. The fourth of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s February 2022 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen’s February 2022 sweep covered February 3 – March 2. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In Raleigh, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WTKK-FM rises two-tenths for a 7.6 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) finish and remains #3 in the market while Curtis Media Group’s crosstown news/talk WPTF drops 1.3 shares for a 2.0 share finish and falls back to the #13 rank. Emmis Communications’ news/talk WIBC, Indianapolis sheds nine-tenths for a 9.7 share finish but remains ranked #2 in the market. In Milwaukee, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WISN falls from #1 to #2 after dipping two-tenths for a 9.5 share finish, while Good Karma Brands’ news/talk WTMJ adds four-tenths to wrap the survey with a 7.6 share that keeps it in the #4 rank. Cox Media Group’s news/talk WOKV-FM, Jacksonville posts a 10.6 share after rising six-tenths and that is good for the #1 rank in the market. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways for this group of markets (as well as the previous three groups) here.
Rhode Island Talk Radio Host John DePetro Continues Reporting from Ukraine. WNRI, Woonsocket, Rhode Island talk radio host John DePetro is pictured above (right) interviewing displaced Ukrainian Andre (left) who is serving as a volunteer in Western Ukraine helping his fellow citizens who’ve lost their homes. DePetro says that the situation in his Western Ukrainian location is “very tense.” So much so that for security reasons, journalists now face being incarcerated for taking any type of military photo or photo showing a specific location. See his video report here.
Audacy’s WJZ-FM, Baltimore Debuts ‘Baltimore Baseball Tonight’ Program. The new “Baltimore Baseball Tonight” program on Audacy’s WJZ-FM, Baltimore “105.7 The Fan” will be hosted by midday personality Bob Haynie, Orioles legends Bill Ripken and Mike Bordick, former Orioles vice president of baseball operations Jim Duquette, and
105.7 The Fan’s Orioles beat reporter Cordell Woodland. Beginning Opening Day on April 7, the show will air at 6:00 pm ET on game nights and broadcast live from Pickles Pub across the street from the stadium when the team is home. When the team is on the road, the show will be live from various locations, including the 105.7 The Fan studios. Audacy Baltimore SVP and market manager Tracy Brandys says, “‘Baltimore Baseball Tonight’ will give fans an in-depth preview of the Baltimore professional baseball team throughout the season and bring them closer to the game than ever before. We’re also extremely excited to get back out with the fans at Pickles Pub and share our collective passion for the team alongside Bob, Bill, Mike, Jim and Cordell – five individuals who have decades of insight on the team.”
TALKERS News Notes. According to data from Comscore, FOX News Digital finished February as the top-performing news brand in the competitive set in both multiplatform views and multiplatform minutes. FOX News Digital says it delivered 2.9 billion
multiplatform minutes and over 1.4 billion multiplatform views, while posting increases in multiplatform unique visitors and multiplatform minutes versus the prior month. February also marked the 12th straight month that FOX News outpaced every news organization in the competitive set in multiplatform minutes. While FOX News Digital topped primary competitor CNN.com in multiplatform total views and multiplatform total minutes, CNN.com beat FOX News 
Digital in multiplatform unique visitors by a margin of almost two to one…..As reported in Pittsburgh’s TribLive, sports radio pro Adam Crowley leaves iHeartMedia’s sports talk WBGG-AM “ESPN Pittsburgh” to join Audacy’s crosstown sports talk KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan” for weekend, fill-in, and producer duties…..Actor, director and educator LeVar Burton will receive the first-ever Insight Award from the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to broadcasting, history and American culture during the NAB Show Welcome on Monday, April 25 in Las Vegas. The Insight Award recognizes an individual or organization for an outstanding artistic or journalistic work or body of work that enhances the public’s understanding of the role, operation, history or impact of media in our society. Burton is known for his roles as Kunta Kinte in the acclaimed television mini-series “Roots” and as Lt. Commander Geordi La Forge in “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” A lifelong children’s literacy advocate, Burton was host and executive producer of “Reading Rainbow,” one of the longest-running children’s television shows in history, during its 26-year run from 1983 to 2009. The show received more than 25 
Emmy Awards, including 10 for Outstanding Children’s Series, and was honored with a prestigious George Foster Peabody Award in 1992…..Host David Marzetti’s weekend golf program, “The Shagbag Radio Show,” is celebrating its 20thanniversary on April 2. The program is heard on iHeartMedia’s KION-AM, Salinas, California each Saturday. Marzetti, who broadcasts the program remotely from the Del Monte Golf Course in Monterey, says he has never missed a live show in its 20 years on air – even during the pandemic shutdown – and has featured more than 4,000 guests on over 1,000 shows in its 20-year run.
Russia-Ukraine War Top News/Talk Story for Week of March 21-25. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the global effects of the conflict made it the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was President Joe Biden’s leading a NATO summit addressing the Ukraine invasion, followed at #3 by U.S. relations with Russia and China and tied with North Korea’s intercontinental ballistic missile test. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.
Westwood One Seeks Part-Time Producer. This is a Washington, DC-based position for a part-time producer to support the “Jim Bohannon Show,” “America in the Morning” and “First Light.” The producer performs all the functions of the producer for
vacation relief and other times and will assist with the production of the programs, including news assignments, call screening, podcast and archive uploading, and other responsibilities as needed. The ideal candidate should have a strong knowledge of news events and passion for radio. They must be able to multitask and handle a fast-paced working environment, be detail-oriented, prompt and reliable, thrive on working as part of a team and respond well to direction. Must possess excellent writing and storytelling skills. Get more information and apply here.
February 2022 PPM Data – Information for the February 2022 survey period has been released for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.
Nielsen Audio’s February 2022 sweep covered February 3 – March 2
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 January 2022 – February 2022 (6+).
AUSTIN
News/Talk: Waterloo Media-operated KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 4.4 – 4.7, +.3, eighth to ninth
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” 2.0 – 2.2, +.2, repeats at #15
Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas-owned KUT 6.8 – 6.3, -.5, second to third
Number One 6+: Waterloo Media-operated adult hits KBPA, second month in a row, flat at 8.7
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: country KASE (+1.3)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease (Tie): regional Mexican KLZT and classic rock KLBJ-FM (-1.1)
RALEIGH
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 7.4 – 7.6, +.2, remains in third-place
Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” 3.3 – 2.0, -1.3, #11 to #13
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 2.7 – 1.8, -.9, #13 to #15
Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 9.6 – 8.5, -1.1, #1
Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WUNC, second consecutive month, 9.6 – 8.5, -1.1
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult hits WBBB (+1.7)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: news/talk WPTF (-1.3)
INDIANAPOLIS
News/Talk: Emmis’ WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 10.6 – 9.7, -.9, repeats at #2
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Emmis-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” (Pacers) 4.6 – 3.9, -.7, eighth to tenth
iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” steady at .9, anchored at #19
Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 5.7 – 5.9, +.2, fifth to sixth
Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK, second successive month, 11.2 – 12.1 +.9
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WYXB (+1.4)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: news/talk WIBC (-.9)
MILWAUKEE
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 9.7 – 9.5, -.2, first to second
Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Bucks) 7.2 – 7.6, +.4, repeats in fourth-place
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” 1.8 – 1.6, -.2, flat at #15
Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” 1.8 – 1.5, -.3, #15 to #16
Audacy’s WSSP “1250 AM The Fan” 1.2 – .8, -.4, #18 to #19
Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 4.8 – 5.6, +.8, ninth to sixth
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WRIT, first month, 9.3 – 10.2, +.9
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic rock WKLH (+1.3)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: country WMIL (-1.8)
NASHVILLE
News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 6.9 – 7.2, +.3, second to third
iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 2.6 – 3.3, +.7, #13 to #11
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” 4.7 – 2.4, -2.3, #9 to #14
Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) 1.1 – .7, -.4, #19 to #20
Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 6.6 – 6.0, -.6, fourth to sixth
Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult hits WCJK, second month in a row, 7.2 – 8.2, +1.0
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase (Tie): adult hits WCJK and country WSM-FM (+1.0)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk WGFX (-2.3)
PROVIDENCE
News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 7.0 – 6.9, -.1, third to fourth
iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .7 – .8, +.1, #16 to #17
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Celtics, and Bruins) 4.4 – 3.7, -.7, sixth to eighth
Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 4.2 – 3.6, -.6, seventh to ninth
Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 2.8 – 2.9, +.1, locked at #10
Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 2.8 – 2.3, -.5, #10 to #11
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia rock WHJY, first month, 10.4 – 11.1, +.7
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WWLI (+1.0)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease (Tie): country WCTK and sports talk WBZ-FM (-.7)
NORFOLK
News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” flat at 2.3, #13 to #14
News: iHeartMedia-owned WNOH “BIN 105.3 Because Truth Matters” .5 – .3, -.2, #21 to #20
Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.5 – 1.1, -.4, #17 to #18
Sinclair’s WTAR “Sports Radio 850” .6 – .3, -.3, repeats at #20
Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty
Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, second straight month, 11.1 – 10.6, -.5
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: rhythmic CHR WNVZ (+1.0)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WVBW (-1.2)
JACKSONVILLE
News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 9.6 – 10.2 +.6, #1
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WOKV-AM “ESPN Jacksonville 690 AM” .9 – 1.2, +.3, #18 to #16
Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.4 – 3.7, +.3, #12 to #10
Number One 6+: news/talk WOKV-FM, second consecutive month, 9.6 – 10.2 +.6
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WEZI (+1.6)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: country WQIK (-1.3)
WEST PALM BEACH
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WJNO “News Radio 1290” 2.9 – 2.3, -.6, eighth to ninth
Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” flat at 1.7, unchanged at #11
iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 1.7 – 1.3, -.4, #11 to #14
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” steady at .6, repeats at #17
Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN flat at 3.2, stays in seventh-place
Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF, second month in succession, 9.1 – 9.6, +.5
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WEAT (+1.5)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: classic rock WKGR (-2.4)*
*Represents the largest January 2022 – February 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
GREENSBORO
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 6.5 – 5.7, -.8, remains in fifth-place
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Curtis Media Group-owned WSJS & WPCM 600 AM & 920 AM” .6 – .5, -.1, stays at #16
Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 4.0 – 3.6, -.4, eighth to ninth
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.8 – 1.6, -.2, repeats at #14
Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WQMG, second straight month, 14.2 – 13.4, -.8
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: country WPAW (+1.1)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease (Tie): urban AC WQMG; news/talk WPTI; and country WTQR (-.8)
MEMPHIS
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.6 – 3.0, +.4, #12 to #13
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 4.7 – 3.5, -1.2, eighth to tenth and WMFS’ internet stream flat at .7, anchored at #18
Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications’ WKNO 2.6 – 1.3, -1.3, #12 to #17
Number One 6+: Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO, second successive month, 14.1 – 12.4, -1.7
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: urban AC KJMS (+1.8)**
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO (-1.7)
**Represents the largest January 2022 – February 2022 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
HARTFORD
News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” steady at 5.3, unchanged at #7 and WTIC-AM’s internet stream .5 – 1.5, +1.0, #16 to #13
Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut”.9 – 1.1, +.2, #15 to #14
iHeartMedia’s WPOP “News Radio 1410 AM & 100.9 FM” .2, #20 (WPOP was unlisted in January 2022)
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 1.2 – 1.1, -.1, remains at #14
Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 8.6 – 9.6, +1.0, continues in second-place
New England Public Media’s WFCR .5 – .4, -.1, #16 to #19
Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 24th successive month, 11.6 – 10.9, -.7
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase (Tie): public radio news/talk WNPR and news/talk WTIC-AM’s internet stream (+1.0)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WHCN (-2.0)
Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com
Casey Daniels Named Co-Host of WIBC-FM, Indianapolis’ Late Morning Show. Radio and television pro Casey Daniels is joining Emmis Communications to co-host the late morning daypart on news/talk WIBC-FM, Indianapolis alongside Rob Kendall.
Daniels was most recently program director of Grand Rapids’ classic hits WFGR. Prior to that, she spent six years hosting and producing a daytime talk show for WSBT-TV, South Bend. Emmis Indy VP of programming David Wood says, “Casey is a storyteller with great curiosity and creativity. Pairing her with Rob Kendall and his deep knowledge of how local and state government works (or doesn’t work) will create a very entertaining and informative show.” The new “Kendall and Casey Show” will begin on April 4. Daniels says, “I’m so thrilled to be back home again in Indiana at legendary 93 WIBC. I want to thank Taja Graham, David Wood, Matt Hibbeln and Rob Kendall. I’m grateful for this amazing opportunity and what’s next. I’ll see you on the circle!”
Jon Johnson New Overnight Host on Sports Talk WIP, Philadelphia. According to a report at Crossing Broad, Jon Johnson is assuming the role of overnight sports talk host at WIP, Philadelphia. Johnson tweeted: “Some professional news: I will be taking
over for my good friend Big Daddy Graham & becoming the full-time host of the @SportsRadioWIP overnight show, starting tonight. In addition, I will still be part of @WIPMorningShow, & back at WFC, CBP covering big games again.” About Johnson’s recent role with the station, Crossing Broad’s Kevin Kinkead writes, “This is interesting. Jon has been a Swiss army knife for WIP for a long time now, filling a variety of shifts and roles. He covers for Angelo [Cataldi] in the mornings, works night and weekend shifts, and goes down to Citizens Bank Park and The Wells Fargo Center for games.” Big Daddy Graham passed away last September after a series of health issues.
Round Three of February PPMs Released. The third of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s February 2022 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 February 2022 sweep covered February 3 – March 2. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In Portland, Alpha Media’s news/talk KXL-FM tacks on one-tenth for a 7.7 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) and remains ranked #4, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk KEX-AM rises three-tenths to a 3.1 share good for the #14 rank. iHeartMedia’s KFBK-AM/FM, Sacramento falls six-tenths to finish with a 6.5 share but remains ranked #3. In Salt Lake City, iHeartMedia’s news/talk KNRS-AM/FM claims the #1 rank after climbing eight-tenths to an 8.4 share, while Bonneville’s crosstown news/talk KSL-AM/FM loses half a share to finish with a 6.0 share good for the #4 rank. Audacy’s KMBZ-FM, Kansas City adds six-tenths for a 7.8 share finish that boosts it to the #1 rank in the market. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets (as well as the first two rounds) here.
Edison Research’s Infinite Dial 2022: Online Audio Consumption Jumps. The 2022 edition of Edison Research’s The Infinite Dial study was unveiled yesterday (3/23) at the Podcast Movement: Evolutions conference in Los Angeles. The big takeaway is that online audio consumption in the U.S. showed significant gains year-over-year. According to the data, 73% of the U.S. 12+ population (an estimated 209 million
people) have listened to online audio in the last month, up from 68% in 2021. This jump was primarily driven by listeners age 35+, as the number of those age 35+ who listen to online audio monthly increased by 13% year-over-year. Weekly online audio listening also rose to 67% of the U.S. 12+ population, up from 62% in 2021. The report goes on to conclude that podcasting’s reach is wider than ever but listening behaviors have shifted a bit as Americans return to pre-pandemic routines. Sixty-two percent of those age 12+ in the U.S. (an estimated 177 million people) have ever listened to a podcast, up from 57% last year. Podcast listening – which skyrocketed during the beginning of the pandemic – has tailed off. Edison’s Tom Webster says, “Clearly, Americans went back to work and back to school last year, which brought podcasting numbers back in line with pre-pandemic figures. However, the trend line continues to go up, particularly with 35-54 year olds.”
‘On Being’ Host Krista Tippett Leaving Public Radio System. The executive producer and host of the award-winning public radio show and podcast “On Being” announces she will leave the public radio system effective this June. The national
weekly show, which began as “Speaking of Faith” in July 2003, and was renamed “On Being” in 2010, will continue this fall as a seasonally produced podcast. Krista Tippett says, “The front edge of growth of the organization I founded in 2013, The On Being Project, is at the intersection of media and long-term social healing. It’s time for us to live more fully into that mission, and for me to be differently present to this moment in the life of the world. For me personally, this is an energizing and necessary transition. After hosting 52 weeks of programming a year for close to 20 years, I’m ready to move to a more sustainable rhythm and to open space and time for writing, public engagement, and new extensions of our content in the world that is emerging.” “On Being” is distributed by WNYC/New York Public Radio and has more than 650,000 weekly radio listeners on public radio stations around the country. The podcast has had over 375 million total plays and downloads.
Veritonic: Audio Logo Index Ranks Top Audio Logos. The results of Veritonic’s annual Audio Logo Index reveal the top in-market audio logos for overall effectiveness. An audio logo is the spoken or sung portion of an audio ad that identifies the product or service. The company says that effectiveness is measured by logo recall, creative
resonance (i.e. uniqueness, trustworthiness, and innovation), and correct association to the brand and industry. Each logo is compared to Veritonic audio logo benchmarks developed and trained by 6-plus years of audio and human response data. This report was compiled based on responses from more than 2,800 panelists that represent the general U.S. population. The best audio logos score highly in 1) creative resonance because the most effective executions elicit resonant and positive feelings towards a brand; 2) in recall as memorability of a brand is paramount for winning future sales; and 3) in association because an audio logo is only effective if the brand is continuously and consistently associated with it (and not one of your competitors). The top audio logos in the 2022 study were: #1 Folgers, #2 State Farm, #3 Liberty Mutual, and #4 Farmers Insurance. You can see more about the study results and hear audio logo samples here.
KFAN’s Dan Barreiro Inducted into Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame. Twin Cities sports talk host Dan Barreiro was recently inducted into the Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame. Barreiro is host of the afternoon drive “Bumper to Bumper with Dan Barreiro” program at iHeartMedia’s KFXN-FM, Minneapolis “KFAN 100.3” as
well as the “Sunday Sermons with Dan Barreiro” weekend show. Barreiro was a sports columnist at the Star Tribune for 17 years. He joined KFAN in 1992. He also co-hosts the Fox 9 television program “Enough Said” on Friday nights. iHeartMedia market president Greg Alexander says, “Dan epitomizes the make-up of a tremendous talk show in the Twin Cities. He puts together compelling interviews and has the ability to break down any and every topic to entertain our listeners. He is a true talent.” SVP of programming Gregg Swedberg adds, “There isn’t a radio personality who has had the kind of ratings success over the last three decades than Dan Barreiro. He has done it by hosting intelligent, entertaining, and compelling radio. He’s more than the ‘Big Ticket,’ he is the blueprint.”
KMJ-AM/FM, Fresno Celebrates 100 Years of Service. Fresno news/talk KMJ celebrated its 100th birthday on March 23. Cumulus Media kicked off the station’s year-long Centennial celebration that will include a concert to be announced and a documentary film. KMJ began broadcasting on March 23, 1922 and is the 38th oldest licensed and continually operating radio station in America. It was originally owned by the San Joaquin Light and Power Corporation, was later acquired by the McClatchy
Newspaper Company in 1925 and has seen a handful of owners in the past century. Cumulus Fresno VP and market manager Patty Hixson says, “I started listening to KMJ in my 20s. Over the past 33-plus years, I have had the great honor and privilege to have worked with some of the greatest talent in the business, both on air and in sales. I am truly grateful and humbled by the fact that I have been so blessed to serve our valued listeners – this is my home! The KMJ brand will continue to serve our community and central California through continued focus on relevant content, philanthropy, and ethical business practices. Every day we aspire to be great and it’s the men and women that work here every day, and have done so for the past 100 years, who deserve all the credit for achieving such a wonderful milestone.” Station program director Blake Taylor says, “It’s been an amazing run, and it’s far from over. KMJ has covered everything from the Harding administration to the Biden White House. Terrible tragedies to inspirational triumphs and everything in between. The service to the public of Fresno and the entire Central Valley of California will continue to be our sole focus for the next 100 years.”
TALKERS News Notes. Washington, DC sports talk outlet WTEM “The Team 980” will no longer serve as the flagship station for play-by-play of the NFL’s Washington
Commanders. The station – formerly owned by Commanders team owner Dan Snyder – is now owned by Audacy and the station issued a statement on its website that host Kevin Sheehan made on air. It reads: “The organization and the company ‘disagreed on the value of the broadcasts [and] it is also very important for us as a sports talk station, even as a long-time flagship station for the team, it was important for us to continue to be able to provide honest, objective information and analysis about the [Commanders] on our talk shows.” The station obviously believed it could not report objectively while in a financial relationship with the team…..One of radio’s hardest-working talk hosts is adding some fill-in work to his schedule. WHO, Des Moines afternoon drive personality Simon Conway –
who is simulcast to WMT, Cedar Rapids and WOC, Quad Cities – is filling in on iHeartMedia sister station WFLF, Orlando “WFLA” for “Good Morning Orlando” host Bud Hedinger, who is set to undergo heart bypass surgery. In addition, Conway will also be hosting the Premiere Networks nationally syndicated “The Weekend” show on Saturday (3/26)…..G Accelerate 
Networks announces it has signed a long-term agreement with the “Lou Dobbs Financial Reports” for exclusive advertising sales, affiliate sales, and distribution. The feature – delivered three times daily Monday through Friday, will launch April 18…..SiriusXM enters into a multi-platform agreement with Crooked Media, the independent progressive media company that produces “Pod Save America,” “Lovett or Leave It,” and “Pod Save the World,” through the 2024 election cycle and beyond. The agreement gives SXM Media, the advertising sales arm of Sirius XM Holdings Inc., exclusive global ad sales rights to Crooked Media’s extensive lineup of podcasts beginning in May. SXM Media also gains sales and sponsorship rights to digital video, social media, and live events produced by Crooked Media.
Russia-Ukraine War, Biden Europe Trip, Jackson Confirmation Hearings, Gas Prices/Inflation, COVID-19, Idaho Abortion Law, and Madeleine Albright Dies Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/23). The ongoing invasion of Ukraine by Russia, Vladimir Putin’s threats to the West, and the economic effects of the disruption in Europe; President Joe Biden travels to Europe to rally support against Russia; day three of confirmation hearings for Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson; still-soaring gas prices in the U.S. and the high consumer retail prices; concerns about the Omicron BA.2 variant and the airlines ask Biden to let mask mandates expire next month; Idaho Governor Brad Little signs new, restrictive abortion policy into law; and former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright dies at 84 among top news/talk stories yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
February 2022 PPM Data – Information for the February 2022 ratings period has been released for Portland; Charlotte; San Antonio; Sacramento; Pittsburgh; Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Orlando; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Kansas City; and Columbus.
Nielsen Audio’s February 2022 sweep covered February 3 – March 2
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 January 2022 – February 2022 (6+).
PORTLAND
News/Talk: Alpha Media’s KXL “FM 101 News” 7.6 – 7.7, +.1, repeats in fourth-place
iHeartMedia-owned KEX “News Radio 1190” 2.8 – 3.1, +.3, #15 to #14
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB 10.1 – 8.9, -1.2, #1 and KOPB’s internet stream 2.1 – 1.9, -.2, flat at #19
Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KOPB, second month in succession, 10.1 – 8.9, -1.2
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: country KUPL (+.7)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KKCW (-1.5)
CHARLOTTE
News/Talk: Radio One-owned WBT AM & WBT-FM “Charlotte’s News Talk” 3.9 – 3.3, -.6, #13 to #14
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Radio One’s WFNZ-FM “Sports Radio 92.7” 2.2 – 2.1, -.1, flat at #16
Beasley Media Group-owned WSOC-HD3 “Fox Sports Charlotte” .3 – .4, +.1, stays at #20
Public Radio News/Talk: University Radio Foundation’s WFAE 4.2 – 4.6, +.4, #12 to #8
South Carolina Educational Television Commission-owned WNSC .4 – .5, +.1, remains at #19
Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WKQC, first month, 4.4 – 6.3, +1.9
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WKQC (+1.9)*
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: urban-rhythmic oldies WOSF (-.7)
*Represents the largest January 2022 – February 2022 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
Note: Roughly two weeks into the February 2022 sweep (2/16), Radio One flipped urban contemporary WQNC to sports talk WFNZ-FM.
SAN ANTONIO
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WOAI “News Radio 1200” (Spurs) 4.4 – 5.1, +.7, eighth to seventh
Alpha Media-owned KTSA “Stay Connected” 2.6 – 2.4, -.2, unchanged at #14
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: Texas Public Radio’s KSTX 3.4 – 3.3, -.1, flat at #12
Number One 6+ (Tie): Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM, first month, 6.8 – 7.1, +.3 and iHeartMedia adult contemporary KQXT, first month, 7.0 – 7.1, +.1
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: country KAJA (+1.4)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: classic rock KTKX (-1.4)
SACRAMENTO
News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM “News 1530 AM & 93.1 FM” 7.1 – 6.5, -.6, locked in third-place and cluster-mate KSTE “Talk 650” 3.7 – 3.3, -.4, #11 to #12
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Audacy’s KIFM-AM “ESPN 1320” 1.3 – .9, -.4, #18 to #19
Public Radio News/Talk: Capital Public Radio-owned KXJZ 5.0 – 4.6, -.4, seventh to sixth
Number One 6+: Audacy classic rock KSEG, second month in a row, 9.3 – 10.2, +.9
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: country KNCI (+1.1)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: rock KRXQ (-.8)
PITTSBURGH
News/Talk: Audacy’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020 AM” 5.0 – 4.8, -.2, sixth to seventh
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan All Sports All The Time” 9.1 – 7.5, -1.6, second to fourth
Public Radio News/Talk: Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting’s WESA 3.1 – 2.8, -.3, repeats at #11
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW, fourth month in succession, 10.1 – 10.8, +.7
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult hits WRRK (+.8)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk KDKA-FM (-1.6)
SALT LAKE CITY
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM “Talk Radio” 7.6 – 8.4, +.8, #2 to #1
Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” 6.5 – 6.0, -.5, repeats in fourth-place
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: University of Utah’s KUER 4.3 – 4.1, -.2, eighth to tenth
Number One 6+: news/talk KNRS, first month, 7.6 – 8.4, +.8
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classical KBYU (+1.6)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KRSP (-1.2)
LAS VEGAS
News/Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned KDWN “The Talk Of Las Vegas” 1.4 – 2.2, +.8, #23 to #15
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR 2.5 – 2.2, -.3, #14 to #15
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE, first month, 6.9 – 7.4, +.5
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: urban-rhythmic oldies KOAS (+1.5)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: rhythmic hot AC KXQQ (-.7)
ORLANDO
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKS “Real Radio 104.1” 6.2 – 6.3, +.1, sixth to fourth and cluster-mate WFLF “Orlando News Radio” 1.3 – 1.8, +.5, #19 to #16
Cox Media Group-owned WDBO “Orlando’s News Talk” 1.9 – 1.6, -.3, anchored at #17
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WYGM “96.9 The Game” (Magic) 2.0 – 1.5, -.5, #16 to #18
Public Radio News/Talk: Community Connections’ WMFE 2.5 – 2.4, -.1, #13 to #15
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia CHR WXXL, second straight month, 8.3 – 7.9, -.4
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic rock WMMO (+1.0)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: Spanish contemporary WOEX (-.7)
CINCINNATI
News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WLW “700 Cincinnati’s News Radio” 11.5 – 12.3, +.8, locked in second-place and cluster-mate WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” 7.0 – 5.3, -1.7, repeats in fourth-place
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WCKY “ESPN 1530” 1.4 – 1.1, -.3, #17 to #19
Public Radio News/Talk: Cincinnati Public Radio-owned WVXU 4.8 – 5.1, +.3, sixth to fifth
Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WGRR, second successive month, 13.4 – 12.6, -.8
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: news/talk WLW (+.8)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: news/talk WKRC (-1.7)**
**Represents the largest January 2022 – February 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
CLEVELAND
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTAM “News Radio 1100” (Cavaliers) 4.7 – 5.5, +.8, seventh to sixth
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” 5.4 – 4.2, -1.2, #6 to #11 and WKRK’s internet stream 1.1 – 1.0, -.1, #16 to #17
Public Radio News/Talk: Ideastream’s WCPN 4.1 – 4.4, +.3, #11 to #9
Kent State University-owned WKSU flat at 1.5, steady at #15
Number One 6+: Radio One urban AC WZAK, second month in a row, 11.3 – 11.1, -.2
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase (Tie): news/talk WTAM and country WGAR (+.8)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk WKRK (-1.2)
KANSAS CITY
News/Talk: Audacy’s KMBZ-FM “98.1 FM News, Traffic, Weather” 7.2 – 7.8, +.6, #3 to #1 and cluster-mate KMBZ-AM “Talk 980 AM” .5 – .9, +.4, #22 to #20
Cumulus Media-owned KCMO-AM “Talk Radio 710 AM” .5 – .9, +.4, #22 to #20
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KCSP “Sports Radio 610 Our Teams, Our Town” 2.9 – 1.5, -1.4, #12 to #18
Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri’s KCUR 6.0 – 6.5, +.5, fifth to fourth
Number One 6+: news/talk KMBZ-FM, first month, 7.2 – 7.8, +.6
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase (Tie): hot AC KZPT and country KBEQ (+.9)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk KCSP (-1.4)
COLUMBUS
News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WTVN “News Radio 610” 8.5 – 9.3, +.8, #3 to #1
News: iHeartMedia’s WYTS “Columbus’ BIN 1230” flat at .3, #19 to #20
Sports Talk: Tegna-owned WBNS-FM “97.1 FM The Fan” (Blue Jackets) 9.5 – 8.8, -.7, #1 to #2 and co-owned WBNS-AM “ESPN 1460 AM” flat at .6, #18 to #17
Public Radio News/Talk: Ohio State University’s WOSU 7.7 – 8.3, +.6, fifth to third
Number One 6+: news/talk WTVN, first month, 8.5 – 9.3, +.8
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WSNY (+1.2)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: CHR WNCI (-1.2)
Up next: February 2022 overviews for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.
Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com
Denver Talk Radio Host Peter Boyles Announces Retirement. Longtime Denver talk radio personality Peter Boyles called in to his own show on Salem Media Group’s KNUS-AM while on vacation to tell his listeners that he will be retiring from his radio
program. As reported by Westword, his March 21 call to substitute host George Brauchler included Boyles saying, “Everything has a beginning and a middle and an end. And I see an end coming.” Boyles recently suffered a 
health episode while on air that he referred to as an “event” and a “mini-stroke.” Boyles, who will soon turn 79, announced that there will be a five-hour “going away” show on April 1 that will include former KOA personality Mike Rosen. Boyles spent a large part of his Denver talk career at iHeartMedia’s KHOW where he hosted the morning drive show for almost 20 years. He was fired from KHOW in 2013 after getting into a physical confrontation with producer Greg Hollenback, but quickly landed his current gig with Salem’s KNUS. Boyles said during his call-in, “I remember the old-timers saying, ‘When the time comes, you’ll know it.’”
Charlie Kirk Latest Talk Host to Have Twitter Account Frozen. A report from Benzinga indicates that Salem Media Group personality Charlie Kirk’s Twitter account was frozen yesterday (3/22) after the social media platform ruled that his tweet about
transgender Assistant Secretary for Health Rachel Levine violated its rules against “hateful conduct.” Kirk tweeted: “Richard Levine spent 54 years of his life as a man. He had a wife and family. He ‘transitioned’ to being a woman in 2011, Joe Biden appointed Levine to be a 4-Star Admiral, and now USA Today has named ‘Rachel’ Levine as a ‘Woman of the Year’ Where are the feminists??” Kirk responded, “Everything I said was precisely accurate and yet, Twitter still suspended my account. That should terrify every American, even those who disagree with me. What they want is submission. They have become the enemy of the truth.”
Leila Rahimi Promoted at Chicago TV Station; Will Continue Part Time with ‘The Score.’ Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that sports radio personality Leila Rahimi, co-host of the late morning show on Audacy’s WSCR-AM “The Score,” is being
promoted at WMAQ-TV to full-time sports anchor. The move means that Rahimi will reduce her work with co-host Dan Bernstein at “The Score” to part time. WSCR program director Mitch Rosen says in an email to his staff, “Leila will be in studio each and every Wednesday [from 9 a.m. to noon], co-hosting with Dan and adding great commentary and her unique perspective on the world of sports. Leila is a tremendous asset to The Score, and we are grateful she remains a big part of our team and that Score listeners will continue to hear Leila across all of our platforms.”
Audacy Rebrands Greenville-Spartanburg Sports Talker as ‘The Fan Upstate.’ Sports talk WORD-AM/WYRD-AM in Greenville-Spartanburg is rebranding as “The Fan Upstate” after Audacy ends the stations’ affiliation with ESPN and signs on with CBS
Sports Radio. The company says, “‘The Fan’ will continue delivering live, local content including the award-winning ‘Rob Brown Show’ and award-winning ‘Offsides with Marc Ryan’ and will now be home to CBS Sports Radio and BetQL programming. ‘The Fan Upstate’ will also continue to serve as the play-by-play home for Furman University Paladins football and basketball as well as Byrnes High School football.” Audacy SVP and market manager Steve Sinicropi comments, “After years of constantly changing, syndicated ESPN content, we have made the exciting move to bring new and relevant sports talk content to our listeners in the Upstate. ‘The Fan Upstate’ will aim to provide the best original sports talk and sports betting content that our fans crave.”
Round Two of February 2022 PPM Ratings Released. The second of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s February 2022 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 February 2022 sweep covered February 3 – March 2. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this round of markets. In Washington, Cumulus Media’s news/talk WMAL-FM rises a half share to finish with a 4.9 share (6+, weekly AQH share) and climbs to the #9 rank. Meanwhile, Hubbard Radio’s crosstown all-news WTOP loses seven-tenths, finishing with a 7.3 share and slides from the #2 rank to #4. iHeartMedia’s news/talk WRKO, Boston drops nine-tenths to post a 3.6 share and falls from #7 to #10, while the company’s all-news WBZ-AM sheds two-tenths and wraps the survey with a 6.2 share good for the #5 rank. In Seattle, Bonneville International’s news/talk KIRO-FM sits at #1 after adding a half share and finishing with a 7.4 share while Lotus Communications’ crosstown all-news KNWN-AM/FM rises a half share to a 5.7 share and climbs from #5 to #2. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets (as well as the first round) here.
TALKERS News Notes. In the wake of the recent passing of NFL insider and KIRO-AM “Seattle Sports” personality John Clayton, the station and owner Bonneville
International are launching the “John Clayton Memorial Fund” to benefit the Multiple Sclerosis Society, an MS research organization supported by Clayton, as well as his wife, Pat. The Fund has received an initial investment of $10,000 donated by Bonneville. Bonneville Seattle SVP and market manager Cathy Cangiano says, “The MS Society was an important charity for John and his wife Pat. The John Clayton Memorial Fund is a wonderful way for everyone to honor his memory and make a difference in the lives of others through a cause that meant so much to John.” Clayton served with the station for 14 years. He died on March 18 after an illness…..SiriusXM announces the upcoming launch of “Basic!,” an original SXM Podcast series, produced in conjunction with Pantheon Media and hosted by media veteran Doug Herzog and TV critic Jen Chaney. The series explores “the glory days of cable television, celebrating an era in pop culture when networks like MTV, Comedy Central, FX and ESPN changed the television landscape with groundbreaking, innovative programming.” Each episode will include guests who thrived and starred on cable TV including Jimmy Kimmel, Amy Schumer, Fab Five Freddy, Cindy Crawford, Neal Brennan, Tim Gunn and many more. The podcast premieres on May 18 and will also begin airing on SiriusXM’s Volume channel this spring.
Russia-Ukraine War, Jackson Confirmation Hearings, Biden European Trip, COVID-19, Gas Prices/Inflation, Chinese Airliner Crash, and Severe Southern Weather Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/22). The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the rest of the world’s reactions; the confirmation hearings for Supreme Court nominees Ketanji Brown Jackson; President Joe Biden begins his visit to Europe; concerns about the spread of the Omicron BA.2 variant in the U.S.; the still-soaring price of gas at the pump and the high consumer retail prices; the mystery of the deadly crash of a Chinese passenger airliner; and the severe weather hitting the U.S. South that spawned a tornado in New Orleans were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
February 2022 PPM Data – Information for the February 2022 sweep has been released for Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.
Nielsen Audio’s February 2022 sweep covered February 3 – March 2
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 January 2022 – February 2022 (6+).
WASHINGTON, DC
News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 3.6 – 4.1, +.5, #12 to #9
News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 8.0 – 7.3, -.7, second to fourth
Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” 3.0 – 2.0, -1.0, #13 to #16
Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU 9.6 – 10.8, +1.2, #1
Pacifica’s public radio news/talk-jazz hybrid KPFW steady at .7, #21 to #20
Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, second month in succession, 9.6 – 10.8, +1.2
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: public radio news/talk WAMU (+1.2)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: classical WETA (-1.1)
BOSTON
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” 4.5 – 3.6, -.9, seventh to tenth
News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” 6.4 – 6.2, -.2, fourth to fifth
Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Celtics and Bruins) 8.3 – 6.3, -2.0, first to fourth
Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” 3.1 – 2.7, -.4, #12 to #14
Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 3.9 – 4.3, +.4, ninth to seventh
WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.4 – 3.0, -.4, #11 to #12
Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR, first month, 6.9 – 8.4, +1.5
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WROR (+1.5)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk WBZ-FM (-2.0)
MIAMI
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WIOD “News Radio 610” unchanged at 2.0, #20 to #19
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board-owned WLRN 2.8 – 2.9, +.1, #14 to #13
Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WFEZ, second consecutive month, 8.3 – 9.1, +.8
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WFEZ (+.8)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk WQAM (-.5)
SEATTLE
News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” 6.9 – 7.4, +.5, #1
News: Lotus Communications’ KNWN-AM/FM “Northwest News Radio” 5.2 – 5.7, +.5, fifth to second
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio’s KUOW 5.7 – 5.3, -.4, third to fifth
Number One 6+: news/talk KIRO-FM, second straight month, 6.9 – 7.4, +.5
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: news/talk KVI (+1.0)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk KIRO-AM (-.9)
DETROIT
News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 3.0 – 3.2, +.2, #13 to #14
News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” (Pistons) 6.2 – 6.1, -.1, locked in fourth-place
Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Pistons and Red Wings) 5.5 – 5.0, -.5, repeats at #7
Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 2.4 – 2.5, +.1, steady at #15
Wayne State University’s WDET 2.4 – 1.9, -.5, #15 to #20
Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies WOMC, second consecutive month, 7.8 – 8.3, +.5
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: country WYCD (+1.2)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: the internet stream of sports talk WXYT-FM (-.7)
PHOENIX
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” 5.7 – 5.4, -.3, repeats in third-place
Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” (Sun) 2.9 – 3.2, +.3, #13 to #11
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College’s KJZZ 6.5 – 6.3, -.2, anchored at #2
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KESZ, seventeenth consecutive month, 8.4 – 6.5, -1.9
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: regional Mexican KLNZ (+.5)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KESZ (-1.9)
MINNEAPOLIS
News/Talk: Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” (Minnesota Timberwolves) 5.0 – 4.9, -.1, eighth to seventh
iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” 3.0 – 3.2, +.2, unchanged at #14
Hubbard Broadcasting’s KTMY “My Talk 107.1” 2.6 – 2.5, -.1, repeats at #15
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” (Minnesota Wild) 6.5 – 4.9, -1.6, third to seventh
Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW 7.4 – 6.6, -.8, locked in second-place
Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC KSTP-FM, second month in a row, 10.6 – 10.1, -.5
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: hot AC KTCZ (+1.3)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk KFXN (-1.6)
SAN DIEGO
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” 2.9 – 3.3, +.4, repeats at #13
News: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 6.6 – 6.3, -.3, third to second
Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KXSN, second consecutive month, 8.2 – 8.1, -.1
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: alternative XTRA-FM (+.9)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: rhythmic hot AC (-.7)
Statistical Oddity: There’s a six-way logjam at #4
TAMPA
News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” (Lightning) 3.3 – 4.4, +1.1, #11 to #7
Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” 3.2 – 3.6, +.4, #13 to #11
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” 1.9 – 1.2, -.7, #19 to #20
Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 2.6 – 3.3, +.7, #17 to #15
Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, sixth month in a row, 8.1 – 8.6, +.5
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WXGL (+1.5)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WRBQ (-1.3)
DENVER
News/Talk: In the iHeartMedia cluster, KOA “News Radio 850” 3.3 – 2.6, -.7, #11 to #16; KDFD “Freedom 93.7” 1.9 – 2.3, +.4, #18 to #17; and KHOW “Talk Radio 630” 2.3 – 1.7, -.6, #17 to #19
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” (Nuggets) 3.9 – 2.7, -1.2, #9 to #15
Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 4.3 – 4.2, -.1, repeats in seventh-place
Number One 6+: Audacy classic rock KQMT, first month, 5.4 – 6.6, +1.2
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic rock KQMT (+1.2)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk KKFN (-1.2)
BALTIMORE
News/Talk: WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” 3.8 – 3.2, -.6, #9 to #11
Hearst Television’s WBAL News Radio 1090” 2.5 – 2.8, +.3, #14 to #13
Cumulus Media-owned WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” .6 – 1.2, +.6, #21 to #20
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” 4.7 – 3.8, -.9, sixth to eighth
Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 5.7 – 3.8, -1.9, fifth to eighth
Number One 6+: Radio One urban AC WWIN-FM, first month, 7.4 – 8.6, +1.2
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: CHR WWMX (+2.0)*
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WYPR (-1.9)
*Represents the largest January 2022 – February 2022 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
ST. LOUIS
News/Talk: In the Audacy cluster, KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” 3.6 – 3.8, +.2, #12 to #11; KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 4.0 – 3.4, -.6, #11 to #13; and KFTK’s internet stream .8 – .9, +.1, repeats at #19
iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-FM “104.9 The Patriot” .7 – .8, +.1, flat at #20
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” (Blues) 5.5 – 4.7, -.8, ninth to tenth
Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 2.3 – 2.4, +.1, #16 to #17
Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting rock KSHE, second month in a row, 8.5 – 8.6, +.1
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult hits WARH (+1.1)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: country KSD (-2.8)**
**Represents the largest January 2022 – February 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
Up next: February 2022 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
Washington, DC Radio Legend Andy Parks Passes at 68. The Washington Times reports that market radio legend Andy Parks has died at age 68 after battling a recent illness. Parks spent the majority of his radio career with news/talk WMAL but in recent
years he’d been hosting the podcast, “Politically Unstable,” produced by The Times. He began his career at WMAL doing traffic reports, but management liked his commentary and made him a regular show host. He served with co-host Fred Grandy from 2003 to 2010 on the morning drive “Grandy & Andy” show. Former Iowa congressman Grandy says, “We were Washington’s wake-up call. We were the first people you heard in the morning with a breaking story. Real partnerships are rare — few and far between. And when you get one, you know it, and you want to hang on to it. I think Andy and I knew pretty quickly this was going to work out.” Times opinion editor Charles Hunt says, “More than anything, Andy was a prince of a guy. And though he spent a lifetime covering all the crazy shenanigans of this political town, he never lost the straightforward common sense that his listeners loved about him. He will be dearly missed.”
Round One of February PPMs Released. The first of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s February 2022 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 February 2022 sweep covered February 3 – March 2. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. New York City’s two big news/talk stations are tied as Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM/WLIR-FM dips one-tenth for a 2.9 share (6+, weekly AQH share) finish and iHeartMedia’s WOR-AM rises one-tenth to reach a 2.9 share. Both stations are tied at the #13 rank. In Los Angeles, iHeartMedia’s news/talk KFI is up three-tenths to finish with a 4.0 share, good for the #7 rank, while Audacy’s crosstown all-news KNX-AM/FM ticks up two-tenths for a 3.3 share finish but dips to the #11 rank. Nexstar Media Group’s news/talk WGN-AM, Chicago sheds six-tenths, falling to a 4.6 share good for the #5 rank, while Audacy’s crosstown all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM also falls six-tenths, finishing with a 5.1 share that takes it from #1 to #3. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.
Audacy Names Jonathan Carlson AM Drive Co-Anchor on WWJ-AM, Detroit. Television news pro Jonathan Carlson is named the new morning drive co-anchor on Audacy’s all-news WWJ News Radio 950 in Detroit. Carlson joins Roberta Jasina for
the 5:00 am to 10:00 am daypart, beginning April 18. Audacy Detroit SVP and market manager Debbie Kenyon says, “We are thrilled to have Jonathan – an Emmy Award-winning journalist – join our team as a morning 
anchor. We’re confident he will round out our morning show program while seamlessly connecting with our listeners along the way.” Carlson has anchored in major markets around the country for nearly two decades, including WXYZ-TV, Detroit and most recently WGCL-TV, Atlanta. He comments, “I’m thrilled to join the legendary WWJ news team in such a pivotal role and I am honored and humbled to soon be waking up Metro Detroiters each morning. I am passionate about Detroit and Michigan as a whole and was waiting for the right opportunity to return. I can’t wait to bring my years of television reporting experience to radio and hope to be a voice listeners can trust and lean on each day.”
Audacy Announces Promotions at Corporate Promotions and Experiences Team. The company announces three moves in its corporate promotions and experiences department. Most relative to spoken-word programming is Jess Clarke’s new role as
director, sports and entertainment, a promotion from her current role as regional promotions director for Audacy Tri-State. The company says, Clarke will continue to oversee the New York City market, but her primary focus is going to be leading Audacy’s upcoming performance space at the soon-to-open Hard Rock Hotel in New York City. She will spearhead Hard Rock development projects and work alongside SVP promotions and experiences Chad Fitzsimmons, sports format VP Spike Eskin, and VP of sports Matt Volk to develop sport events and platforms nationally. Other promotions announced include Bethany Kent moving into a new role as director of music initiatives and Andrea Burtscher moving from her role as regional promotion director – Northern California into the newly developed role of director, country promotions and experiences.
TALKERS News Notes. Nationally syndicated, San Antonio-based talk radio personality
Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo announces he’s giving up his position as host of iHeartMedia’s “The Weekend” talk program. Pags tells TALKERS, “After almost 12 years, I’ve decided to stop doing ‘The Weekend w/Joe Pags’ to give 100% focus on ‘The Joe Pags Show.’ It’s been an indescribable honor and I can’t thank Premiere, the stations, and the listeners enough.” Pags’ daily program is based at iHeartMedia’s WOAI, San Antonio and is syndicated nationally by Compass Media Networks…..WPG, Atlantic City morning 
drive personality Harry Hurley is taking part in the New Jersey GOP Statewide Leadership Summit taking place March 25-26 at Harrah’s Marina Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City New Jersey. Hurley is serving as the moderator for a very high-profile panel on Friday as well as on a talk radio panel on Saturday. The keynote speaker for the event is former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Dr. Ben Carson…..This Thursday (3/24), Townsquare Media’s WKXW-FM, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” presents the latest in a 
series of Town Hall broadcasts to help New Jersey residents navigate life in the Garden State. New Jersey 101.5’s Eric Scott leads a panel of educators, behavioral specialists, education advocates and policymakers to examine how best to deal with pandemic-induced learning loss. He says, “Nearly two years of remote and hybrid learning has caused significant learning issues for New Jersey school kids. Some may never catch up.” Scott says he and his guests will help parents identify areas where their kids may be struggling, and will offer ways to take corrective action. These deficits are not confined to the classroom – social anxiety, loss of interpersonal skills and an increase in bullying has also been blamed on remote learning…..Audacy announces that Sam Levitt will join sports talk KWFN-FM, San Diego 97.3 The Fan’s flagship broadcast coverage of MLB’s San Diego Padres as pregame and postgame host. Levitt will join The Padres Radio Network broadcast team alongside play-by-play announcer Jesse Agler and color analyst Tony Gwynn Jr, beginning this season. “97.3 The Fan” brand manager Adam Klug says, “We are thrilled to welcome Sam Levitt as the new pre and postgame host for Padres baseball on the Padres Radio Network. Sam has a wealth of experience and passion for baseball that will benefit Padres fans of all ages.”
Russia-Ukraine War, Biden in Europe, Jackson Confirmation Hearings, Gas Prices/Inflation, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, and Severe Weather in U.S. South Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/21). Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine; President Joe Biden’s trip to Europe and his warning that Russian cyberattacks on the West are a real threat; the confirmation hearing for Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson; the soaring gas prices at the pump and the high cost of consumer retail goods; the battle for control of Congress in November’s midterms and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; and tornadoes and severe weather hit the U.S. South were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
February 2022 PPM Data – Information for the February 2022 ratings period has been released for New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; San Francisco; Dallas; Houston; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario; San Jose; and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.
Nielsen Audio’s February 2022 sweep covered February 3 – March 2
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 January 2022 – February 2022 (6+).
NEW YORK
News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.0 – 2.9, -.1, #12 to #13
iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.8 – 2.9, +.1, repeats at #13
News: Audacy’s WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 4.3 – 4.0, -.3, flat at #7 and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 2.8 – 2.6, -.2, #13 to #16
Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 3.8 – 2.6, -1.2, #8 to #16
Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.5 – 3.6, +.1, tenth to eighth
Number One 6+: Emmis urban AC WBLS, second consecutive month, 6.6 – 5.9, -.7
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: urban contemporary WWPR (+.7)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM (-1.2)
LOS ANGELES
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 3.7 – 4.0, +.3, steady in seventh-place
News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 3.1 – 3.3, +.2, #10 to #11
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.4 – 2.5, +.1, #15 to #14
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, eighth successive month, 6.3 – 5.8, -.5
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: smooth AC KTWV (+.5)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KOST (-.5)
CHICAGO
News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” (Blackhawks) 5.2 – 4.6, -.6, fourth to fifth
News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 5.7 – 5.1, -.6, first to third
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 5.4 – 5.7, +.3, third to first
Number One 6+ (Tie): iHeartMedia urban AC WVAZ, second consecutive month, flat at 5.7 and public radio news/talk WBEZ, first month, 5.4 – 5.7, +.3
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WRME (+.7)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease (Tie): news WBBM-AM & WCFS and news/talk WGN (-.6)
SAN FRANCISCO
News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.8 – 1.9, +.1, #17 to #18
News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 7.1 – 7.3, +.2, unchanged in second-place
Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” 4.6 – 2.2, -2.4, #4 to #15
Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.’s KQED 8.5 – 7.9, -.6, first
Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KQED, second straight month, 8.5 – 7.9, -.6,
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary KOIT-FM (+.7)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk KNBR (-2.4)*
*Represents the largest January 2022 – February 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
DALLAS
News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.1 – 2.9, -.2, anchored at #14
News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” 2.1 – 2.5, +.4, #19 to #18
Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) 3.7 – 3.4, -.3, #7 to #11
Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting’s KERA 3.5 – 3.6, +.1, #12 to #9
Number One 6+: Univision regional Mexican KLNO, first month, 5.2 – 7.2, +2.0
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: regional Mexican KLNO (+2.0)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk KRLD-FM (-1.0)
HOUSTON
News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” 4.7 – 4.8, +.1, sixth to seventh
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston-owned KUHF 2.2 – 2.8, +.6, #19 to #18
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, eleventh consecutive month, 7.4 – 8.1, +.7
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary KODA (+.7)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: CHR KRBE (-.9)
ATLANTA
News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 6.9 – 7.4, +.5, third to second
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks) 2.4 – 1.6, -.8, #15 to #18
Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” 1.9 – 1.5, -.4, #17 to #20
Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 2.8 – 3.1, +.3, #12 to #13
Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, second successive month, 7.1 – 8.8, +1.7
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WSRV (+1.7)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: gospel WPZE (-1.0)
PHILADELPHIA
News/Talk: Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 1.3 – 1.4, +.1, #20 to #19
News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 5.2 – 4.9, -.3, locked on #6
Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” 3.9 – 3.7, -.2, flat at #9
Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers and Flyers) 3.1 – 3.6, +.5, #11 to #10
WIP’s internet stream, 1.9 – 2.0, +.1, repeats at #15
Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 7.4 – 6.1, -1.3, second to fourth
Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM, first month, 7.3 – 8.0, +.7
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic rock WMGK (+.9)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WHYY (-1.3)
LONG ISLAND
News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 4.3 – 4.1, -.2, sixth
Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 1.8 – 1.9, +.1, #15 to #18
News: Audacy’s WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 3.5 – 2.8, -.7, #5 to #12 and cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 3.0 – 2.5, -.5, #8 to #14
Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 3.5 – 2.4, -1.1, #5 to #16
Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty
Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM, second straight month, 7.4 – 6.5, -.9
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic rock WBAB (+1.0)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: CHR WHTZ (-1.4)
RIVERSIDE
News/Talk: None in the top twenty
News: None in the top twenty
Sports Talk: None in the top twenty
Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, .3 – .4, +.1, #15 to #20
Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, second consecutive month, 8.4 – 9.5, +1.1
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies KOLA (+1.1)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: regional Mexican KSCA (-.8)
SAN JOSE
News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KGO “810 AM” 2.0 – 1.8, -.2, #11 to #14
News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 5.4 – 5.0, -.4, fourth to fifth
Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” 3.5 – 1.7, -1.8, #8 to #15
Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty
Number One 6+: Empire country KRTY first month 5.4 – 7.5, +2.1
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: country KRTY (+2.1)**
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease sports talk KNBR (-1.8)
**Represents the largest January 2022 – February 2022 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets
MIDDLESEX
News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 5.9 – 6.3, +.4, second to first
News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 1.9 – 2.1, +.2, #12 to #14 and cluster-mate WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 1.1 – 1.3, +.2, #16 to #20
Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 2.9 – 2.5, -.4, #10 to #13
Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty
Number One 6+ (Tie): Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish tropical WSKQ, second straight month, 6.0 – 6.3, +.3 and news/talk WKXW, first month, 5.9 – 6.3, +.4
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: the internet stream of Spanish tropical WSKQ (+1.0)
Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: CHR WHTZ (-1.9)
Up next: February 2022 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.
Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.
.gif)
