Industry News

Brian Lehrer Show Announces Candidate Forum Programs

WNYC, New York’s “The Brian Lehrer Show” plans to host a series of forums with the candidates in four competitive New York Democratic primary elections this spring. In addition to these forums, WNYC and NY1 will co-host a debate with the candidates imgin the NY-12 Democratic primary race to replace US Representative Jerry Nadler on Tuesday, June 9 at 7:00 pm. Participating candidates will be state assemblymember Alex Bores; lawyer and activist George Conway; state assemblymember Micah Lasher; political commentator Jack Schlossberg; and scientist Nina Schwalbe. The debate will be hosted by NY1’s longtime host Errol Lewis, WNYC’s Brian Lehrer, and WNYC/Gothamist senior politics reporter Brigid Bergin.

Industry News

Salem Media Adds to Religious Content

Salem Media is expanding its faith-based original content with the addition of “Your Nightly Scripture” to LifeAudio’s growing lineup. Produced natively for LifeAudio, Salem says the podcast reflects the network’s continued investment in original Christian content imgdesigned to meet listeners throughout their daily lives. Salem SVP David Bingham comments, “As we’ve seen strong engagement with ‘Your Nightly Prayer,’ we recognized a natural opportunity to serve our audience even more deeply. ‘Your Nightly Scripture’ is the perfect companion for listeners who want to end their day not only in prayer but grounded in God’s Word. At night, when many people are still carrying the stress and noise of the day, Scripture has a unique way of bringing peace, calm, and renewed perspective.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (5/26)

The most discussed stories yesterday (5/26) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. Iran War / Self-Defense Strikes
  2. Redistricting Cases
  3. Paxton Beats Cornyn
  4. Pope Leo’s AI Encyclical
  5. Ballroom Project
Industry News

Joe Pags to Deliver Wrap Up Address at TALKERS Conference

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Nationally syndicated news/talk radio star Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo – whose national Compass Media Networks program (“The Joe Pags Show”) originates 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm ET daily from its flagship KTSA, San Antonio – will play a multi-faceted role at TALKERS 2026: Radio’s Next Chapter. In addition to reprising his memorable performance of the National Anthem on the saxophone and participating on the panel, “Gaining Traction in a Noisy Digital World,” Pags will deliver the conference’s closing address titled, “Be Ready When You Get That Call.”  The speech will be delivered at the event’s closing reception and wrap up the conference on what organizer Michael Harrison describes as “a positive note.”  Harrison says, “Joe Pags is an inspirational combination of superb talent and entrepreneurial energy – just what’s needed to make it during these challenging times.” Pags is a top 10 inductee in the TALKERS Heavy Hundred.  To see the latest conference registration, hotel and sponsorship information, please click here

Industry News

Audacy Expands Relationship with ABC News Audio

With the end of CBS News Radio on Friday (5/22), Audacy announces that it is expanding its relationship with ABC News Audio to use the service across many of its all-news and news/talk imgstations. Audacy says, “The move ensures listeners continue receiving trusted national and international reporting from ABC News Audio, while Audacy stations remain focused on delivering live, local journalism in the communities they serve. Existing ABC News Audio affiliates, including 1010 WINS in New York and KYW Newsradio in Philadelphia, will continue their longstanding relationships as part of the expanded collaboration.”

Industry News

Margie Tasseff Retires from iHeartMedia Mansfield and Marion

Longtime market president Margie Tasseff announces her retirement from iHeartMedia’s Mansfield and Marion, Ohio markets where she led news/talk WMAN-AM and sports talk WNCO “FOX Sports 1340” in Mansfield and news/talk WMRN in Marion plus six imgmusic brands. iHeartMedia area president Matt Bell says, “Margie’s passion for this business, her commitment to the Mansfield and Marion communities and the relationships she built over nearly four decades have left an incredible mark on our company and everyone fortunate enough to work alongside her. She has been a trusted leader, mentor and advocate for both our employees and our partners, and her presence will truly be missed. We are deeply grateful for everything she has contributed to iHeartMedia and wish her nothing but happiness and success in this next chapter.” Reflecting on her career, Tasseff comments, “Spending 39 years with one employer is truly uncommon. I’m deeply proud of what we’ve built together over the years — from the friendships and partnerships to the impact we’ve made through local radio. I’ve been fortunate to grow professionally while working with outstanding colleagues and serving a community that has meant so much to me. These stations will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Industry News

Seaboard Networks to Distribute “The Unscaled Travel Radio Show”

Seaboard Networks announces that it is the new distributor and syndicator of the weekly travel program, “The Unscaled Travel Radio Show.” The KOWS-FM, Santa Rosa, California-based program is hosted by husband-and-wife team Jeremy and Amy Long. It is currently also heard on digital stations throughout the United States, Australia, United Kingdom, New Zealand and beyond. Seaboard marketing solutions consultant Bob Stei says, “I was hooked the moment Jeremy and I first started talking about travel. Travel is a topic people are extremely passionate about. This will go well with our growing portfolio of lifestyles shows which include a wrestling show and program about pets.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend (May 23-25)

The most discussed stories over the Memorial Day weekend (5/23-25) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. Iran War Peace Talks / New U.S. Strikes
  2. Secret Service Kill White House Shooter
  3. Texas Republican Runoff
  4. Russia Announces Attacks on Kyiv
  5. Ebola Outbreak
Industry News

NAB Statement on Inclusion of the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act in House Surface Transportation Package

The House Committee on Energy and Commerce has included the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act in a larger transportation bill, moving it closer to becoming law. NAB president Curtis LeGeyt says, “NAB applauds the House Committee on Energy and Commerce for including the AM imgRadio for Every Vehicle Act in its surface transportation reauthorization package. We thank Chairmen Brett Guthrie and Gus Bilirakis and Ranking Member Frank Pallone for their continued leadership on this critical issue and for creating another path to pass this overwhelmingly bipartisan legislation. As lawmakers consider policies affecting America’s transportation infrastructure, ensuring continued access to AM radio in vehicles remains essential for public safety. Leaders on both sides of the aisle recognize AM radio’s unique and indispensable role in keeping Americans informed, especially in times of emergency. We appreciate the support of the Act’s nearly 380 House and Senate cosponsors and urge Congress to take swift action to advance this legislation into law.”

Industry News

“American Ground Radio” Launches on Salem’s WWRC, Washington

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The morning radio program “American Ground Radio” is airing on Salem Media’s news/talk WWRC-AM, Washington “AM 570 The Answer” at 7:00 am. The program is hosted by Stephen Parr and Louis R. Avallone. About the show, Salem says, “Known for their conversational style and sharp perspective, Parr and Avallone have built a growing national audience by creating a bridge between traditional American values and today’s biggest issues. Each episode features special guests, listener call-ins, and thoughtful discussion on the stories shaping the country.” WWRC general manager David Howard adds, “We’re thrilled to bring American Ground Radio to the heart of our nation’s capital. Stephen and Louis create a space where listeners can engage, be inspired, and find common ground.” Pictured above are Parr (left), and Avallone (center) interviewing House Speaker Mike Johnson (right).

Industry News

New York Festivals Radio Awards Announce Winners

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New York Festivals Storytellers Gala announces the 2026 Radio Awards winners and American media companies taking home trophies include ESPN, NPR, Alabama Media Group, WBEZ, SiriusXM, Bloomberg, iHeartMedia and CBS News. NYF says, “Engaging storytelling and audio innovation took center stage at the 2026 Storytellers Gala virtual event, celebrating the achievements of global creators in radio and podcasting. Innovative audio storytelling from creators across six continents was evaluated by the New York Festivals 2026 Radio Awards Grand Jury. This year’s winners reflect the impressive range of the medium, spanning audiobooks, podcasts, drama, documentaries, breaking news, entertainment, and music, and showcasing work from global networks, production companies, and independent storytellers.” For the second consecutive year, CBC/Radio-Canada was named New York Festivals Radio Awards Broadcaster of the Year. See all the winners here.

Industry News

MAB Names WJR, Detroit Commercial Station of the Year

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Cumulus Media’s news/talk WJR, Detroit is named Commercial Station of the Year by the Michigan Association of Broadcasters, marking the 9th consecutive year that 760 WJR has taken Station of the Year honors. The station has been honored as the top commercial station in Michigan for 28 of the last 32 years. Additionally, WJR received 11 MAB Broadcast Excellence “Best” Awards and 10 “Merit” Awards. Cumulus RVP and market manager Steve Finateri comments, “What an honor to be recognized by MAB as we continue to raise the bar for providing the highest quality news, information, and insights for our listeners and community. Congratulations to WJR program director Ann Thomas and the extraordinary WJR team, who have earned our listeners’ trust for many years and continue to build on that every day. A special thanks to the MAB and our listeners and partners for their ongoing support.” Pictured above is the WJR staff at the recent awards ceremony.

Industry News

Premiere Networks and FOX Sports Radio Celebrate Gracie Winners

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Earlier this week, the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation’s 51st Annual Gracie Awards annual gala took place at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles. Winners included FOX Sports Radio’s Carmen Vitali and former co-host Alex Curry, were honored in the Weekend Host/Personality category for their “FOX Sports Saturday” show. Pictured here are Curry and FOX EVP Scott Shapiro.

Industry News

Rao Named WNYC / Gothamist Culture Reporter

imgPublic media firm WNYC in New York names Sonia Rao the culture reporter joining the WNYC / Gothamist newsroom. Rao will cover the arts, with a specialty in film, television, and food. She has covered arts and culture for a decade, most recently as a features reporter and critic at The Washington Post.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (May 18-22)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (5/18-22) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

Stories

  1. Trump’s Primary Victories
  2. Iran War / War Powers Vote
  3. Gas-Food Prices
  4. “Anti-Weaponization” Fund / Trump Immunity
  5. U.S.-Cuba Tensions / Ebola Outbreak
  6. DNC 2024 “Autopsy”
  7. Xi-Putin Meeting / U.S.-Taiwan Relations
  8. Deadly Mosque Shooting / Rededicate 250 Prayer Rally
  9. End of Colbert Show / Springsteen vs Trump
  10. Kyle Busch Dies

People

  1. Donald Trump
  2. Thomas Massie
  3. JD Vance / Pete Hegseth
  4. Todd Blanche
  5. Joe Biden / Kamala Harris
  6. Raul Castro
  7. Xi Jinping / Vladimir Putin
  8. Lai Ching-te
  9. Stephen Colbert / Bruce Springsteen
  10. Kyle Busch

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

Industry Views

Pakman Suggests YouTube Systems are Reducing Exposure for Left-Leaning Indie Channels

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David Pakman, a major online liberal political commentator, is publicly alleging that YouTube’s recommendation and distribution systems are dramatically reducing exposure for left-leaning independent media channels, creating what he describes as an “existential crisis” for progressive political creators on the platform.

In a recent video, Pakman said that since early April, “YouTube has dramatically reduced performance for the vast majority of left-leaning independent media shows,” while asserting that right-leaning content does not appear to be experiencing the same decline.

Pakman framed the issue primarily through platform analytics rather than overt accusations of intentional censorship. He pointed to a sharp decline in impressions – the number of times YouTube displays a video thumbnail to users – while claiming audience engagement metrics remain largely stable.

“We were getting 15 million impressions a day,” Pakman said, explaining that the figure later dropped to approximately 10 million despite what he described as an unchanged audience response rate. “The click-through rate is still close to 8%. But impressions go from 15 million down to 10 million.”

Pakman argued that the consistency of click-through rates undermines the idea that audiences have simply lost interest in progressive political content. “It appears that people are just as interested in hearing from the left on YouTube right now, but they are not being shown the videos,” he said.

He also cited viewer feedback as evidence that something unusual may be occurring within YouTube’s recommendation ecosystem. According to Pakman, subscribers have repeatedly reported needing to manually search for his content despite being subscribed and having notifications enabled.

“You were being suppressed in distribution,” Pakman quoted one viewer as saying. Another viewer reportedly wrote: “I’m not seeing your new videos, and I’ve been subscribed for years.”

Pakman stopped short of alleging direct political targeting by YouTube employees or executives. “I am not arguing that someone at YouTube has flipped a switch and is deliberately suppressing left-wing channels,” he said. Instead, he suggested the platform’s recommendation systems may be reacting to engagement patterns or retention metrics in ways that inadvertently disadvantage certain political content.

At the same time, Pakman said performance on other digital platforms remains strong, including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, and podcast distribution channels. “Every single other platform is doing fine,” he said. “It’s only YouTube.”

The comments add to a broader ongoing debate among digital creators regarding algorithmic visibility, platform transparency, and the growing dependence of independent media companies on recommendation systems they neither control nor fully understand.

Pakman urged viewers to subscribe directly, enable “all notifications,” and join his Substack mailing list in an effort to reduce reliance on platform algorithms. “We don’t want to rely on AI for recommendations,” he said. “We have to go back to telling the platforms what we want.”

To view David Pakman’s recent video in which he discusses this issue in full detail, please click here.

Industry News

“The Breakfast Club” to Stream Daily on Netflix

iHeartMedia strikes a deal with streaming giant Netflix to stream the nationally syndicated urban morning show “The Breakfast Club” – the first such move for Netflix. The announcement reveals that the program co-hosted by Charlamagne tha God, will air simultaneously as a live video show on Netflix each weekday. While the radio broadcast will continue to include traditional commercial breaks, Netflix viewers will receive “an enhanced, uninterrupted experience, imgwith those breaks filled by exclusive bonus segments, behind‑the‑scenes moments, extended discussions and original content – resulting in nearly three continuous hours of programming each day.” iHeartMedia chairman Bob Pittman comments, “The Breakfast Club has always been at the center of culture, breaking artists, shaping conversations, and reflecting real life in real time. Taking this show live every day to a global audience on Netflix is a powerful example of how we’re expanding the reach of our biggest brands while giving audiences entirely new ways to experience them. Whether it’s morning in NYC or the afternoon in London, the conversation is live and reaching the world in real time.”

Industry News

Salem Media Partnership Produces New Film

Salem Media’s strategic partnership with Compel Studios results in a new documentary film, By Dawn’s Early Light. Salem says, “The film explores the enduring principles of faith, liberty, and the American spirit through compelling storytelling, historical reflection, and cultural commentary. imgThrough the partnership, Salem Media and Compel Studios will bring the film to audiences nationwide through streaming platforms, churches, and Salem’s extensive multimedia network.” SalemNOW general manager Rob Ellis adds, “By Dawn’s Early Light is exactly the kind of meaningful and culturally relevant storytelling that resonates deeply with our audience. We’re excited to partner with Compel Studios to help expand the film’s reach and bring its message to viewers across the country.”

Industry News

WOLB, Baltimore’s Larry Young Appears with MD Governor at Community Town Hall

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Longtime WOLB, Baltimore personality Larry Young (l) is pictured with Maryland’s Governor Wes Moore (r) at a Town Hall-style meeting Tuesday evening (5/19) at which the state’s first Black chief executive, a Democrat, delivered his assessment of the 2026 Maryland General Assembly session. Young, a former recipient of the TALKERS “Humanitarian of the Year” award, is legendary for his decades of community service throughout Baltimore and Maryland.

Industry News

“98.5 The Sports Hub” Holding 15th Annual Charity Golf Tournament

Beasley Media Group’s sports talk WBZ-FM, “98.5 The Sports Hub” is hosting the 15th Annual “Who’s Your Caddy” Golf Classic on Monday, June 8, at Brookmeadow Country Club that will, with a major assist from the Boston Bruins Foundation, raise funds to benefit Special Olympics Massachusetts. This year’s event will feature a new fan-imgfocused opportunity called, “We Need A 4th,” giving listeners the chance to bid online for the opportunity to join either the Fred Toucher, Rob ‘Hardy’ Poole & Jon Wallach foursome or the Tony Massarotti, Mike Felger & Jim Murray foursome. The highest bidder for each group will earn a coveted spot as the fourth player. Massarotti states, “We launched this event 15 years ago with the goal of combining our passion for sports, entertainment, and giving back. To see how much this tournament has grown over the years – and the incredible support from listeners, sponsors, and local organizations – has been truly rewarding. We’re excited to make this year’s event another memorable day for a great cause.” Since its launch in 2011, the “Who’s Your Caddy” Golf Classic has raised more than $300,000 for charities including Boston Children’s Hospital Pediatric Care Unit, Jaylen Brown’s 7uice Foundation, and now Special Olympics Massachusetts.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Assistant Production Manager in Seattle

Lotus Seattle is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Assistant Production Manager to support the daily operations of the Production Department within a fast-paced broadcast radio environment. This role assists with the coordination, scheduling, creation, and delivery of commercial imgproduction, station imaging, promotional audio, and other broadcast content across multiple stations and digital platforms. The Assistant Production Manager works closely with Programming, Sales, Traffic, Promotions, and On-Air staff to ensure all production elements are completed accurately, creatively, and on schedule while maintaining Lotus Seattle Corp. quality standards and FCC compliance requirements. This position requires strong audio production skills, creativity, technical proficiency, and the ability to effectively manage multiple deadlines in a dynamic broadcasting environment. See more and apply here.

Industry News

Heritage Band Gunhill Road Cracks a Million Listens/Views Fueled by Talk Radio Exposure

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Talk radio-fueled music group Gunhill Road has surpassed one million listens and views on a variety of online platforms including YouTube. The four-member ensemble, consisting of Steve GoldrichPaul ReischBrian Koonin, and (TALKERS founder) Michael Harrison, has found a new worldwide online audience fueled largely by interviews and airplay on news/talk radio, specifically over the past six years. The group is known for its provocative lyrics and subject matter (which makes it popular with talk show hosts), along with eye-catching videos (produced by Matthew B. Harrison) and an array of superbly played musical styles. Gunhill Road has been writing and recording a wide variety of songs contained in four albums since the late-sixties, including the 1973 top 40 hit single, “Back When My Hair Was Short.” The group’s colorful history was the subject of a 2017 feature film documentary titled, “Every 40 Years.” They will be releasing their long-awaited fifth album in late June.

​Formed in Mount Vernon, New York by Steve Goldrich and Glenn Leopold in the late-sixties and named after an iconic thoroughfare in the Bronx, Gunhill Road has grown through several musical and personnel chapters for more than a half century. In its current incarnation, Gunhill Road addresses such compelling themes as politics, technology, relationships, aging, animal welfare, modern anxiety, the First Amendment and other issues that are aligned with the topics discussed on talk radio.

​Gunhill Road’s internet hits include:

“Idiots” click here

“AI (No Robots Were Injured in the Recording of this Song)” click here

“Close My Ears” click here

“Damn Scammers” click here

“Don’t Stop Talking” click here

“I Know You’re Real” click here

For more information about Gunhill Road call Barbara Kurland at TALKERS: 413-565-5413

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (5/20)

The most discussed stories yesterday (5/20) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. Primary Results
  2. Iran War
  3. “Antiweaponization” Fund / Trump Immunity
  4. Gas-Food Prices
  5. U.S.-Cuba Tensions
Industry Views

A Thank You to TALKERS and the Voices Behind the Mic

By Jessica Crotty
CEO
C. Crane

imgRadio has always been about connection, the feeling of belonging to something larger than yourself, of being drawn into a story told by a voice you trust. Perhaps, that’s why you tune in as well. There is little that is more rewarding for us than finding a way to connect you to what you want to hear, whether that’s your favorite jazz station, a particular show, or your former alma mater’s student-run station. It’s why we do what we do, and why we show up for the people who keep those stories alive.

If you’ve ever wondered where the people who make talk radio gather – the hosts, station owners, program directors, engineers, the visionaries behind the scenes and in front of the mic – look no further than TALKERSTALKERS magazine’s annual conference is one of the industry’s premier meeting grounds, where talk radio and the evolving world of spoken-word media get taken seriously as a craft, a business, and a cultural force. Talk radio: The original influencer.

Michael Harrison has spent decades as one of radio’s most honest champions. He has consistently pushed the industry to think harder, challenge the status quo, and defend the freedom of speech that gives every great story room to breathe.

Crane was part of that world very early on, when we attended our first TALKERS conference in New York. We’ve been back many times since as attendees and sponsors, and Michael and the TALKERS crew have always been genuinely good to us. We make the radios people use to listen to radio, and being welcomed into the room where those stories get made is something we don’t take for granted.

Over the years, those rooms have introduced us to some extraordinary people. Gene Burns was a favorite long before seeing him at TALKERS. C. Crane had advertised with him on KGO, and his gift for drawing you in came through in everything he did. He hosted many shows over his career; “Dining Around with Gene Burns” was a personal favorite, and Gene and his producer Joel Riddell could point you to the best restaurant in almost any city and just nail it. The speech Gene gave on freedom of speech was one of the best I’ve ever heard, a fierce and passionate defense that stayed with you long after it ended. I also remember the head engineer ar WOR (at the time), Thomas Ray, taking the time to walk me through the mechanics of radio towers while I was manning our booth. That kind of generous, unguarded knowledge sharing is something you don’t forget.

We’ll be back in New York again this year for TALKERS 2026: Radio’s Next Chapter. The landscape continues to change, but what hasn’t changed is the seriousness with which the people in that room take their craft, and their commitment to the stories only radio tells. We’re proud to be part of it. Thank you, TALKERS. Thank you to everyone in that room, past and present, who continues to show up for this event and for radio. We certainly wouldn’t be the company we are without you.

Jessica Crotty is the CEO of C. Crane, a major manufacturer and distributor of radios and radio-oriented devices.  She can be reached via email at jcrotty@ccrane.com. Meet her at TALKERS 2026 on June 5 at Hofstra University.

Industry News

The John Kasich Show to Debut on SiriusXM’s P.O.T.U.S. Channel

Former Ohio Governor John Kasich is joining SiriusXM’s P.O.T.U.S. channel as host of the Saturday morning political talk program “The John Kasich Show,” premiering this weekend (5/23). The former presidential candidate says, img“There’s too much shouting and not enough listening in our country right now. I’ve always believed in unity over division, personal responsibility, service to others, and the ability of everyday Americans to make a difference. This show is about slowing things down, having honest conversations, and creating a place where people can reflect, find clarity, and focus on what still unites us in a noisy world.” The show airs from 11:00 am to 12:00 noon ET with a Sunday replay.

Industry News

iHeartRadio Parters with Beach Football League

iHeartMedia announces its new partnership with the BFL – Beach Football League – that will “integrate iHeart’s expansive live radio, digital, podcast, social and live event platforms into the BFL’s growing national footprint, imgsupporting event promotion, fan engagement, entertainment programming, athlete storytelling, and community initiatives surrounding BFL events across the country.” Just what is the Beach Football League? It’s a new sports league founded by former NFL linebacker Tully Banta-Cain. “The BFL combines professional tackle football on sand with music, celebrity appearances, youth camps and festival-style beachfront entertainment experiences.” The partnership began last weekend with the Santa Cruz Beach Classic and continues with this Saturday’s Fiesta Hermosa Sunset Showdown.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (5/19)

The most discussed stories yesterday (5/19) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. Primary Races / Massie Unseated
  2. Iran War
  3. “Antiweaponization” Fund / Trump Imunity
  4. Xi-Putin Meeting
  5. Ebola Outbreak
Industry News

Stephanie Tichenor Exits WLS-AM, Chicago

Programmer Stephanie Tichenor exited Cumulus Media’s news/talk WLS-AM, Chicago last Friday after seven years in the role of program director and (more recently) director of social media. She posted to LinkedIn: “Radio is changing here in Chicago and across the country. I was laid off yesterday. I worked with Cumulus Media as Program Director and Director of Social Media for over 7 years. I worked with a wonderful team of professionals and I will cherish the friendships I have made. I’m grateful for my family and friends who support me, love me, and make me laugh every day. What’s next? I’m not sure. I am anxious. I am sad. Mostly I am hopeful.”

Industry News

Beasley Tampa Brand Manager Rick Thomas Resigns

Rick Thomas is leaving Beasley Media Group effective June 1 to begin a new chapter “with a focus on spending more time with his family.” He’s been serving as brand manager for the six-station cluster that includes sports talk WJBR-AM “Florida Alumni Radio.” Beasley chief content imgofficer Justin Chase comments, “Rick has been a steady, respected leader and a true partner across our teams. From leading nationally as a format leader at Summit Media and guiding successful multi-format brands in Tampa, New York, and Los Angeles, Rick brought an incredible depth of experience and strategic vision to Beasley. He has always led with passion, integrity, creativity, and a genuine commitment to both the brands and people around him. We’re grateful for the impact he made across the Tampa cluster and throughout the company, and we wish Rick and his family nothing but the very best in the future.”

Industry News

NPR Offering Newsroom Buyouts to Meet Budget Goals

NPR is reporting that it is “restructuring its newsroom, including cutting some reporting and editing jobs, as it attempts to keep pace with changing audience habits while adjusting to an era without federal subsidies.” NPR president and CEO Katherine Maher says the organization has to find img$8 million dollars to hit its $300-million annual budget. This is due in large part to the loss of federal subsidies to member stations who pay to air NPR programming.  NPR says it is offering buyouts to approximately 300 employees in newsroom positions (not including the staff or hosts on NPR’s news programs, who are not eligible), but that “the actual number of departing journalists will be far smaller.” NPR will accept up to 30 buyouts and adds that targeted layoffs would happen if not enough employees accept buyouts by May 26.

Industry News

“The Joe Rogan Experience” Tops Triton Digital’s Q1 2026 U.S. Podcast Ranker

Triton Digital releases its Q1 2026 U.S. Podcast Ranker based on a survey of listeners/users – which is different from its monthly ranker that is based on weekly average imgdownloads for participating networks – and “The Joe Rogan Experience” is #1, followed by audiochuck’s “Crime Junkie” at #2 and The New York Times’ “The Daily” at #3. Other podcasts of interest to TALKERS readers include: “The Tucker Carlson Podcast” at #19, “The Ramsey Show” at #30, “The Ben Shapiro Show” at #34, “The Megyn Kelly Show” at #43, and “The Dan Bongino Show” at #66. Triton also notes in this quarterly report that the top podcast categories by reach remain Comedy (43.6%), News (23.7%), and Society & Culture (21.2%). See the report here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (5/18)

The most discussed stories yesterday (5/18) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. Iran War / Peace Negotiations
  2. Primary Elections
  3. Deadly Mosque Shooting
  4. “Antiweaponization” Fund
  5. Ebola Outbreak / Trump Rx
Industry News

JFMN Announces Debut of “Pennsylvania Posse” Show

The John Fredericks Media Network is expanding its one-hour, state-focused programming with a show titled, “The Pennsylvania Posse,” that will air each Monday at 9:00 am ET. JFMN says, “This isn’t scripted cable-TV nonsense. This is real talk. Real issues. Real imgfighters. ‘The Pennsylvania Posse’ brings together some of the toughest and most influential conservative voices in the Keystone State.” Appearing on the program will be GOP strategist and political insider Mike Barley, Pennsylvania State Senators Doug Mastriano and Jarrett Coleman, and Pennsylvania State Representative Stephanie Borowicz. JFMN adds, “‘The Pennsylvania Posse’ will tackle the biggest issues facing Pennsylvania and the nation: election integrity, border security, energy independence, inflation, parental rights, government corruption, the economy, and the battle to save the American Dream.” This show joins the other state-focused weekly programs: “Texas Truth Line” (Tuesdays), “Peach Crew” (Wednesdays), “DC Dispatch” (Thursdays), and “Virginia Gang” (Fridays).

Industry News

Free Memorial Day Weekend Show from Fisher House Foundation Available to Radio Stations

Fisher House Foundation is presenting a Memorial Day edition of the radio program, “Together in Mission: The Fisher House Journey,” that’s being made available to stations free of charge. It’s available in varying lengths – three-hour, one-hour, 25 minutes and 30 minutes – for news/talk stations and a 30-minuite public affairs show for all imgformats. The program is hosted by talk radio personality Larry O’Connor and tells the stories of America’s military heroes, the families who serve by their side, and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey. Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. Fisher Houses provide temporary, free lodging so families can be close to their loved ones during medical care because “A Family’s LOVE is Good Medicine.” This year’s program features a special focus on the incredibly inspiring victories our wounded warriors enjoy on the field of competitive, adaptive sports. Fisher House supports the Wounded Warrior Games and the Invictus Games as a vital part of the physical, emotional, and mental healing process for our wounded veterans. Listeners will hear about the riveting war stories detailing the injuries these heroes sustained, the ensuing medical and therapeutic healing process, right through the triumph on the field of international sports, as these brave veterans continue their dedication of service, representing America in international competition. Get information and register for the show here

Industry News

SRN News Unveils “Faith & Freedom” Series

Salem Radio Network News is launching a multi-week special series titled, “Faith & Freedom,” that will air today (5/18) through July 4th. On the series, House Speaker Mike Johnson – featured regularly on SRN’s “This Week on Capitol Hill” with Tony Perkins – will offer his perspective on the upcoming 250th birthday of our nation, along with imgmany other prominent political and religious leaders including Rev. Franklin Graham, President of Samaritan’s Purse; Pastor Allen Jackson of World Outreach Church in Tennessee; U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio; Evangelist Alex McFarland; U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC); Dr. Erwin Lutzer, former head of Chicago’s Moody Bible Institute; and United States Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. SRN vice president of News and Talk Programming Tom Tradup says, “This special series will give national prominence to the religious freedoms Americans are blessed to enjoy in the words of men and women who are strong leaders in both political and religious life in our nation.”

Industry News

“Talk of Delmarva” Host Kevin Wade Dies

Family, friends, co-workers and talk radio listeners in the Delmarva region are mourning the passing of Kevin Wade, whose radio show imgwas heard on Datatech Digital’s WGMD, Rehoboth Beach and WUSX-FM, Seaford in Delaware. Wade’s primary career was in engineering and technology. But he ran for the U.S. Senate unsuccessfully became a regular guest host on “The Talk of Delmarva.” The station says, “Friends, colleagues, and listeners remember Wade as a determined advocate who never hesitated to stand up for his beliefs. Despite facing health challenges in recent years, he remained engaged in public discourse and continued contributing to conversations important to the Delmarva community.”