Search Results for: michael

Industry News

TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond Sharon and Joe Madison Tribute Posted

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

im

One of the many video highlights of TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond – “A Tribute to Sharon and Joe Madison” – is now posted on the brand-new TALKERS MEDIA YouTube channel. The presentation took place at the 27th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest running, and most important national gathering held at Hofstra University on Long Island this past June 7.  The event, which took place at Hofstra’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication, was presented by TALKERS in association with the university’s multi-award winning WRHU-FM/WRHU.org. The double tribute consisted of two important elements. It was a memorial to the late African American talk radio legend Joe Madison. It was also a presentation honoring Joe’s loving wife and dedicated executive producer Sharon “Sherry” Madison who was named the 2024 recipient of the TALKERS “Woman of the Year” award (the Judy Jarvis Memorial Award for Outstanding Contributions to Talk Radio by a Woman). Mrs. Madison served as executive producer for her late husband’s long-running morning drive program on SiriusXM Satellite Radio’s Urban View channel since its debut on the platform in 2008. Prior to that she worked closely with Joe – a Radio Hall of Fame inductee – on his talk shows heard on a number of stations including WOL and WWRC in Washington, DC. The Madisons were married for more than 45 years. Joe Madison succumbed after a bravely fought battle with cancer earlier this year. The double tribute was presented by beloved radio talk show host Larry Young of WOLB, Baltimore and Dave Gorab, VP/GM of talk programming at SiriusXM.  The award was accepted for Mrs. Madison, who was unable to attend, by last year’s recipient, Martha Zoller of WDUN, Gainesville, GA. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison stated, “This is a classic case of a great woman behind a great man. This brilliant, distinguished woman has served with skill and steadiness creating a landmark program of utmost importance as one of the truly outstanding producers to ever work in talk radio. In 2024, no one deserves it more.” To watch the video, please click here

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Be Like Mike

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imRemember the old Gatorade commercial? The “Be like Mike” jingle accompanied a montage of gravity-defying Michael Jordan dunks.

If you’ve heard Mike Hulvey speak, you know his birthday and blood type, because he told you, in his enthused trademark close: “March 4th and B positive!”

Before he recently hit-the-ground-running as Radio Advertising Bureau CEO and president, Mike was my longtime client when he ran Neuhoff Media. I consulted his news/talk/sports WSOY, Decatur and trained news people at other stations in the group. And the company’s “Media Made Locally” mantra was more than a slogan: “Nothing makes us happier than knowing that while our big corporate competitors are abandoning all the things we think make local media special – we’re doubling down.”

With broadcasters now so challenged by non-AM/FM audio competitors – and coping with cost cuts – the “Core Values” that clicked in these small Midwest markets seem like a prescription for stations everywhere:

1. Grit: “Stick with it.”
2. Community: “Give back.”
3. Innovation: “Think different.”
4. Excellence: “Be exceptional.”

im

In too many places now, a legacy call letter station is referred to as “the AM” within multi-station clusters and is bundled with music stations’ inventory… not the best sales model in Mike’s estimation: “The news/talk format offers endless opportunities to local clients.” Offered properly, these stations have “unique attributes and programming that lend itself to customize sponsorship and marketing extensions in any size market;” with otherwise “hidden gems that create opportunities for naming rights inside local sports and benchmark sponsorships as the local expert,” creating what he calls “lean-in listening that benefits advertisers.”

Live-N-local 24/7 seems quaint now, so we leverage imported programming, to make it sound more like part of the station’s own on-air family, rather than sounding like we’re an affiliate plugged-into the bird. The day Mike first introduced me at WSOY, I told the morning host: “We’ve got to get your voice in Rush Limbaugh and the Cardinals games more.”

Back to the future: With Monday-Friday syndicated talk programming mostly political, I asked Mike, “Could the sort of non-political shows that were such weekday winners for the late-great KGO and Buckley-owned WOR make a comeback?” His take: “I say yes. I believe that great locally targeted content is still a winning formula of success. While we as consumers have more choices than ever, we still crave information about where we live, work, and raise our families. While national political content has a very loud voice in the market, listeners appreciate those locally ‘world famous’ voices from where they live.”

Evidence, from the vault: 2-minute video, Mike explaining how winning radio is a relationship: https://youtu.be/wcsqrN7R7Ic

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “The Local Radio Advantage: Your 4-Week Tune-In Tune-Up” and “Close Like Crazy: Local Direct Leads, Pitches & Specs That Earned the Benjamins” and “Confidential: Negotiation Checklist for Weekend Talk Radio.” Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke and connect on LinkedIn.

Industry News

TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond Glenn Beck Keynote Address Video Posted

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

im

One of the highlights of TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond – Premiere Networks syndicated star Glenn Beck’s keynote address – is now posted on the brand-new TALKERS MEDIA YouTube channel. The speech took place at the 27th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest running, and most important national gathering held at Hofstra University on Long Island this past June 7.  The event was held at Hofstra’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication presented by TALKERS in association with the university’s multi-award winning WRHU-FM/WRHU.org. Beck, who spoke for approximately 20 minutes, discussed the importance of storytelling in attracting and maintaining an audience within the multifaceted talk media paradigm. He went beyond that, however, delving into the importance of authenticity on the part of the talent in developing a lasting relationship built on trust with the audience. He was candid about his own personal life struggles over the years coming to that conclusion telling the audience that, although flawed, he tries to be a better person every day and that helps him be a better talk show host. Beck also discussed the negative impact of massive cutbacks on the product provided by radio due to its economic struggles imploring the powers-that-be in the business do whatever is possible to bring this medium into the future. TALKERS founder Michael Harrison stated, “This address was classic Beck – his performance on face value was as instructive as the important messages it conveyed.” To watch the video, please click here.

Industry News

TALKERS Launching YouTube Channel

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

im

TALKERS is adding a YouTube channel to its array of talk media platforms. The venue – titled Talkers Media Channel – will initially provide a base for the organization’s conference videos and a platform for its founder Michael Harrison’s reimagined video iteration of his pioneering audio podcast, “Up Close and Far Out.” Videos from the recently held TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond will begin being posted after the July 4th holiday. “Up Close and Far Out with Michael Harrison” soft launches today with a conversation between Harrison and radio tech star Kim Komando examining the sociological, biological, and theological implications of artificial intelligence. The Harrison talk show will take several forms including one-on-one interviews, panel discussions and solo commentaries. Harrison and his guests will sometimes appear on camera and on other occasions just be voices enhanced by stunning visuals and music provided by the channel’s producer TALKERS VP/associate publisher, Matthew B. Harrison. The series will be targeted to an audience Harrison describes as “pop culture aficionados, political junkies, media enthusiasts, fans of science, followers of technology and the philosophically curious.” The Harrisons plan to focus heavily upon a stable of guests composed of professionals from the world of talk media covered by TALKERS magazine but stretch beyond that core as well. After it is fully up and running, plans are in place to expand the channel’s menu to include shows and properties produced by an array of content providers. To visit the debut installment of “Up Close and Far Out with Michael Harrison,” please click here.

Industry News

Nationally Syndicated Jock Tom Kent Passes at 69

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Programmer, radio DJ, and independent syndicator Tom Kent died on Monday (6/24) after a two-year battle with cancer. Kent worked his entire career in music radio – mostly as a CHR jock – but his success in the CHR genre was admired by many talk radio personalities. He led the Tom Kent Radio Network for which he hosted and produced syndicated daily, weekend and, 24/7 programming each week on approximately 600im stations mostly for classic hits and adult contemporary music formats. Prior to syndication, Kent worked on the air and in programming at legendary Top 40 stations including WLS, Chicago; KLIF & KFJZ Dallas-Ft Worth; WIBG Philadelphia and more. On the passing of Tom Kent, TALKERS founder Michael Harrison states, “He was a quintessential practitioner of one of America’s great forms of audio art – top 40 radio.  The disc jockey, in that now almost completely extinct genre, was a uniquely specialized vocal performer akin to being a singer or musical instrument deftly inserted within the hyper-dynamic backdrop of a symphony known as a radio format. Art Vuolo’s video captures not only the superb talent possessed by Kent in executing this amazing audio choreography – but amply displays his passion for excellence and behind-the-scenes pride. When Kent seamlessly hits the posts on driving rock intros of songs with which he is intimately familiar and pumps his fist with glee when pulling it off, it unleashes an adrenaline rush similar to a pro basketball star landing a slam dunk and swinging that extra second from the rim. See the tribute video created by Voulo Video’s Art Vuolo here.

Industry Views

Pending Business: “Go F-Yourself”

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

imWhen it comes to advertisers who cancel, Elon Musk said it loud and clear at the NY Times Dealbook Summit, “Go F-Yourself.” He claimed advertisers who objected to content on X were “blackmailing him with money” by canceling ad campaigns on his X platform.

C’mon, Elon. I guess you never made the sales calls many of us have made pitching Rush Limbaugh, Howard Stern, or any of the many in talk radio who made the dreaded “no buy” list because an advertiser was alienated by their political lean, or content. Maybe Elon forgot that many advertisers feel the feedback of their customers and reflect customer input in their marketing dollars.

Many of us who made those sales calls tried to work alongside the content objections voiced by advertisers. The goal was to earn the advertiser’s dollars, not consider a cancellation as “blackmail.” A loud and clear, “Go F-Yourself,” was and still is the best way to kill the customer, torch the relationship, as your general manager, owner, stockholders, and about everyone including the wife and kids are amazed at your out-of-control rant.

Michael Richards, a.k.a. Kramer of Seinfeld fame, calls it “canceling yourself.” He should know. It seems after careful review Musk may be feeling the pain of his famous F-bomb message to “X” advertisers. Elon is now repackaging his pitch to include an A.I. component that could blunt those content objections. Will A.I. step in and keep the content compatible with the goals and objectives of those advertisers who cancelled X?

Wow, why didn’t I think of that? Eliminate good old-fashioned human judgement to understand the content the advertiser is identifying as incompatible with their goals. Maybe or maybe not. Think about how many of your advertisers listen to your talent and offer you, the seller, content feedback. Like the saying goes, many advertisers buy where they listen.

Back to the F-bomb comment. It is hard to be critical of one of the wealthiest people on the planet, but in this one instance, even a billionaire learned from his missteps. As time passed, perhaps cooler heads prevailed and those at X learned what those of us who made those early “no buy” list sales calls learned:

1. Advertisers who control budgets do not like to be told to “Go F-yourself”

2. Content cancellations are not “blackmail.” Those cancellations are based in:

a. Customer feedback

b. Advertiser culture

c. Misaligned goals

Next time you get the urge to blurt out your frustrations, remember a basic tenet of sales, “Never say anything that is too big to eat.”

Steve Lapa is the president of Lapcom Communications Corp. based in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Lapcom is a media sales, marketing, and development consultancy. Contact Steve Lapa via email at: Steve@Lapcomventures.com.

Industry News

Ongoing Coverage of TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The 27th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest running, and most important national event took place on Friday, June 7 at Hofstra University on Long Island. TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond was an advance sellout. The power-packed, one-day agenda featured a roster of more than 60 speakers from all ends of the talk radio and related talk media industries including talent, station owners, CEOs, programmers, technical experts, journalists, syndicators, and a wide variety of visionaries. The annual talk media industry tradition was presented by TALKERS in association with the prestigious university’s multi-award-winning station WRHU Radio and Hofstra’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication. Key discussions included “Gaining Traction in a Noisy World,” “The Case for AM Radio,” “Generating News/Talk Revenue in the Digital Era,” “The State of Sports Talk Radio,” “The Brave New World of Technological and Generational Change,” “Programming News/Talk Radio,” “Perspectives on Hosting Television Talk,” “Philanthropy and Community Service,” “The Art of Story Telling,” “Talk Radio Programming Opportunities Beyond Politics,” “Meeting the Challenges of Being a Talk Talent,” “The Big Picture of Radio’s Role in a Rapidly Changing World,” and “The State of the First Amendment” among others. As the volumes of data generated by this gathering are sorted out, TALKERS will provide in-depth, detailed coverage of the conference in the days and weeks ahead including posting videos of its key segments.  See a selection of photos from TALKERS 2024 Radio and Beyond below.

im

Salem Radio Networks star Mike Gallagher gives the TALKERS camera a big thumbs up from the halls of Hofstra University’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication. In addition to broadcasting his show that day from the state-of-the-art studios of the university’s acclaimed WRHU, Gallagher participated in the TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond “Great Debate” representing the conservative viewpoint in a refreshingly civil exchange with progressive host Thom Hartmann.

im

WABC, New York/Red Apple Audio Network star Frank Morano (standing); WDUN, Gainesville, GA midday force Martha Zoller (seated r); and WBT, Charlotte afternoon drive personality Brett Winterble (seated l) are pictured during an informal moment at TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond.

im

Noelle Huizenga, VP public policy/communications, National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) was among the attendees at TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond.

im

Nationally syndicated Talk Media Network (TMN) radio personality Kate Delaney (l) captured a cozy selfie with (l-r) Ryan McCormick, Michael Harrison, and Mark Goldman at TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond. Goldman and McCormick are the managing partners of Goldman McCormick Public Relations.

im

John Sardelis (l) is pictured at TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond with Westwood One affiliate sales manager, Laura Martinez.  

im

Broadcasters General Store (BGS) marketing executive Buck Waters attended TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond dispensing sage advice about the latest equipment and technology available to conference registrants. Waters, along with BGS tech wizard David Antoine, provided oversight to the process of video recording the sessions at the event which will soon be posted here and on YouTube.

Industry News

Ongoing Coverage of TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The 27th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest running, and most important national event took place on Friday, June 7 at Hofstra University on Long Island. TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond was an advance sellout. The power-packed, one-day agenda featured a roster of more than 60 speakers from all ends of the talk radio and related talk media industries including talent, station owners, CEOs, programmers, technical experts, journalists, syndicators, and a wide variety of visionaries. The annual talk media industry tradition was presented by TALKERS in association with the prestigious university’s multi-award-winning station WRHU Radio and Hofstra’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication. Key discussions included “Gaining Traction in a Noisy World,” “The Case for AM Radio,” “Generating News/Talk Revenue in the Digital Era,” “The State of Sports Talk Radio,” “The Brave New World of Technological and Generational Change,” “Programming News/Talk Radio,” “Perspectives on Hosting Television Talk,” “Philanthropy and Community Service,” “The Art of Story Telling,” “Talk Radio Programming Opportunities Beyond Politics,” “Meeting the Challenges of Being a Talk Talent,” “The Big Picture of Radio’s Role in a Rapidly Changing World,” and “The State of the First Amendment” among others. As the volumes of data generated by this gathering are sorted out, TALKERS will provide in-depth, detailed coverage of the conference in the days and weeks ahead including posting videos of its key segments.  See a selection of photos from TALKERS 2024 Radio and Beyond below.

im

Keynote speaker: Premiere Networks syndicated star Glenn Beck, (l) who served as keynote speaker at TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond, is pictured with Julie Talbott, president of Premiere Networks (l) and conference producer/director Michael Harrison (c). Shown at far left is Hosea Belcher, SVP affiliate marketing, Premiere Networks.

im

A gathering of friends and colleagues: Pictured (l-r), Rich McFadden, VP/operations, Radio America; Doug Stephan, CEO, Stephan Multimedia; Michelle Jerson, host/producer, “Passport Mom”; Asa Andrew, MD, host, “The Doctor Asa Show”; and Mike Paradiso, CEO, Radio America

im

Loving liberty and technology: TALKERS was pleased to welcome Sam Bushman (l) and Zak Gillies (r) of excellent content supplier LovingLiberty.net to TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond.

im

Old friends: Lots of reunions take place at the TALKERS conference.  Pictured (l-r) in the buzzy halls of Hofstra University’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communications are Scott Lakefield, APD, WOR, New York and legendary affiliate relations marketer, Willis Demalt of Talk Media Network. These two go back to their days together at the old WOR Radio Network. Scott Lakefield was a speaker on the “Programming News/Talk Radio” panel.

Industry Views

Kim Komando is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Talk media megastar Kim Komando is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Komando is a syndicated talk radio star, newspaper columnist, and internationally renowned technology expert. She’s known to her millions of listeners and readers as “America’s Digital Goddess,” For more than three decades, she has been burning up talk media as the leading authority on the evolving technology and sociological impact of the digital era. She is a Radio Hall of Fame inductee and past recipient of the TALKERS Woman of the Year award. This outstanding broadcaster and modern-day thinker produces, hosts, and distributes a weekend three-hour radio talk show, with a recently expanded fourth hour designed to stand on its own. This extra hour was recently added to the Friday evening lineup at WLS-AM, Chicago where it is exploding with ratings success. And now WSB-AM, Atlanta has added it to their Saturday menu where it is showing immediate audience traction. Komando also hosts a couple of short-form daily shows about computers and digital technology heard on stations across America including such giants as WABC, New York and WTOP-FM in Washington, DC. Harrison and Komando engage in an extraordinary conversation about AI and its looming impact on Homo sapiens. Don’t miss this! Listen to the podcast in its entirety here.

Industry News

Ongoing Coverage of TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond

By Editor | by Editor

The 27th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest running, and most important national event took place on Friday, June 7 at Hofstra University on Long Island. TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond was an advance sellout. The power-packed, one-day agenda featured a roster of more than 60 speakers from all ends of the talk radio and related talk media industries including talent, station owners, CEOs, programmers, technical experts, journalists, syndicators, and a wide variety of visionaries. The annual talk media industry tradition was presented by TALKERS in association with the prestigious university’s multi-award-winning station WRHU Radio and Hofstra’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication. Key discussions included “Gaining Traction in a Noisy World,” “The Case for AM Radio,” “Generating News/Talk Revenue in the Digital Era,” “The State of Sports Talk Radio,” “The Brave New World of Technological and Generational Change,” “Programming News/Talk Radio,” “Perspectives on Hosting Television Talk,” “Philanthropy and Community Service,” “The Art of Story Telling,” “Talk Radio Programming Opportunities Beyond Politics,” “Meeting the Challenges of Being a Talk Talent,” “The Big Picture of Radio’s Role in a Rapidly Changing World,” and “The State of the First Amendment” among others. As the volumes of data generated by this gathering are sorted out, TALKERS will provide in-depth, detailed coverage of the conference in the days and weeks ahead including posting videos of its key segments.  See a selection of photos from TALKERS 2024 Radio and Beyond below.

im

Super-agent, Heather Cohen, president of the Weiss Agency (l) pictured with her super-client Fred Toucher, morning co-host on WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” Boston (r) at TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond. Cohen spoke on the “Brave New World” panel and Toucher was the fireside chat guest on “The State of Sports Talk Radio.”

im

New England power couple: Howie and Kathy Carr played important roles at TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond. Howie Carr, host, the Howie Carr Radio Network (l) was this year’s recipient of the Jim Bohannon Memorial Award for Lifetime Achievement (2024 TALKERS Lifetime Achievement Award) in addition to speaking on the “Behind the Mic” panel discussion. Kathy Carr, president, the Howie Carr Radio Network (r) appeared on the “Generating News Talk Revenue in the Digital Era” panel.

im

This great shot of Chris Oliviero, market president, Audacy New York was captured in the ever-buzzing hallway of Hofstra University’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication – home of TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond. Oliviero spoke on the panel, “The Big Picture.”

im

Former recipient of the TALKERS Humanitarian of the Year award, Larry Young, host, WOLB, Baltimore (l) is pictured with his assistant Vernon Streeter (r). Young presented a stirring tribute to the late talk radio legend Joe Madison of SiriusXM Satellite Radio, who passed away earlier this year.

im

Kraig T. Kitchin, CEO, Sound Mind, LCC and co-chair, Radio Hall of Fame (l) is pictured right outside Hofstra University’s “Studio A” soundstage with TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond producer/director Michael Harrison (r). Kitchin – last year’s recipient of the TALKERS Lifetime Achievement award – spoke on the “Big Picture” panel which was moderated by Harrison.

im

Longtime WPHT, Philadelphia superstar, Dom Giordano smiles for the TALKERS camera during one of the very quick breaks between sessions at TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond.  Giordano, the “dean of Philadelphia talk radio” spoke on the “Behind the Mic” panel.

im

Under the lights: Another segment of the capacity crowd of attendees at TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond is pictured in the Hofstra University Lawrence Herbert School of Communication “Studio A” TV soundstage where the entire event was captured on video. TALKERS will begin posting the video recordings of the conference next week bringing its exciting content to a worldwide audience.

More pictures from TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond — as well as videos of panels and presentations — still to come!

Industry News

Ongoing Coverage of TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The 27th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest running, and most important national event took place this past Friday (6/7) at Hofstra University on Long Island. TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond was an advance sellout. The power-packed, one-day agenda featured a roster of more than 60 speakers from all ends of the talk radio and related talk media industries including talent, station owners, CEOs, programmers, technical experts, journalists, syndicators, and a wide variety of visionaries. The annual talk media industry tradition was presented by TALKERS in association with the prestigious university’s multi-award-winning station WRHU Radio and Hofstra’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication. Key discussions included “Gaining Traction in a Noisy World,” “The Case for AM Radio,” “Generating News/Talk Revenue in the Digital Era,” “The State of Sports Talk Radio,” “The Brave New World of Technological and Generational Change,” “Programming News/Talk Radio,” “Perspectives on Hosting Television Talk,” “Philanthropy and Community Service,” “The Art of Story Telling,” “Talk Radio Programming Opportunities Beyond Politics,” “Meeting the Challenges of Being a Talk Talent,” “The Big Picture of Radio’s Role in a Rapidly Changing World,” and “The State of the First Amendment” among others. As the volumes of data generated by this gathering are sorted out, TALKERS will provide in-depth, detailed coverage of the conference in the days and weeks ahead including posting videos of its key segments.  See a selection of photos from TALKERS 2024 Radio and Beyond below.

im

One of the exciting sessions of TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond was titled “The Big Picture.”  It sparked a dialogue about the state of talk media and radio in general in the face of tremendous technological and sociological change.  It put forth the premise that for “radio” to succeed in the multiplatform arena of the digital age, its health and survival will depend upon its practitioners having a clear understanding what the term “radio” means and how that definition differs from the word “audio.” The stellar panels included (l-r): Tavis Smiley, host/owner, KBLA, Los Angeles / Smiley AudioMedia; Kraig Kitchin, CEO, Sound Mind, LLC; Deborah Parenti, publisher, Radio Ink / RBR+TVBR; Chris Oliviero, market president, Audacy New York; Lisa Wexler, host, WICC, Bridgeport; and Chad Lopez, president, WABC, New York / Red Apple Audio Network. (Not pictured, moderator Michael Harrison.)

im

Westwood One host Rich Valdes, host of “America at Night,” introduced “The Big Picture” panel eloquently pointing out that for radio to successfully serve the big picture of American society it will have to grasp the demographic and ethnic changes that are rapidly taking place within the nation’s shifting population.

im

The “Beyond Politics” panel explored the programming options available to talk radio stations – particularly news/talk – to expand programming possibilities that enhance ratings and revenue beyond reliance on the popular paradigm of pure, targeted 24/7 partisan politics.  Panelists included (l-r):  Asa Andrew, MD, host, “The Doctor Asa Show”; Danielle Lin, C.N., producer/host, “The Art of Living and the Science of Life”; Lee Habeeb, CEO/host/producer, “Our American Stories”/American Private Radio; Daliah Wachs, MD, host, “The Dr. Daliah Show”; Mike “Bax” Baxendale, co-host, morning show, WAQY (Rock 102), Springfield, MA; and Walter Sabo (A.K.A. Walter M Sterling), consultant, Sabo Media Partners / host, “Sterling On Sunday,” TMN / “Sterling at Night,” WPHT, Philadelphia. (Not pictured, moderator David Bernstein.)

im

Talk radio programming legend David Bernstein, TALKERS director of broadcast operations, served as moderator of the “Beyond Politics” panel session.

im

Kevin Casey, TALKERS VP/executive editor (l) served as TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond master of ceremonies and John Fredericks, owner/host, the John Fredericks Radio Network (r) delivered the introduction to the “State of Sports Talk Radio” fireside chat. 

Industry News

REVERSE ROLES: Harry Hurley Interviews MH on Harrison Podcast About Artificial Intelligence

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

WPG, Atlantic City radio star Harry Hurley reverses roles with MH on this week’s installment of the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Actually, this week’s episode of the long-running podcast consists of provocative excerpts from Harrison’s recent guest appearance (6/4) on Hurley’s popular WPG morning show in which he was booked to discuss the technological and sociological implications of AI. This took place in conjunction with the release of the new Gunhill Road music video, “Artificial Intelligence (No Robots Were Injured in the Production of this Song).”  Harrison co-wrote and performs lead vocals on the song with the venerable band which had its world premiere on WPG that morning and kicked off Harrison’s “Obsolete Slobs” radio tour in support of the piece. The conversation is a no-holds-barred look at the implications – beneficial and destructive – of the remarkable new technology that is disrupting art, communications, and life here in the early decades of the 21st century and promises to have dramatic impact on the course of humanity going forward. Don’t miss this! Listen to the podcast in its entirety here.

Industry News

Ongoing Coverage of TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The 27th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest running, and most important national event took place this past Friday (6/7) at Hofstra University on Long Island. TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond was an advance sellout. The power-packed, one-day agenda featured a roster of more than 60 speakers from all ends of the talk radio and related talk media industries including talent, station owners, CEOs, programmers, technical experts, journalists, syndicators, and a wide variety of visionaries. The annual talk media industry tradition was presented by TALKERS in association with the prestigious university’s multi-award-winning station WRHU Radio and Hofstra’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication. Key discussions included “Gaining Traction in a Noisy World,” “The Case for AM Radio,” “Generating News/Talk Revenue in the Digital Era,” “The State of Sports Talk Radio,” “The Brave New World of Technological and Generational Change,” “Programming News/Talk Radio,” “Perspectives on Hosting Television Talk,” “Philanthropy and Community Service,” “The Art of Story Telling,” “Talk Radio Programming Opportunities Beyond Politics,” “Meeting the Challenges of Being a Talk Talent,” “The Big Picture of Radio’s Role in a Rapidly Changing World,” and “The State of the First Amendment” among others. As the volumes of data generated by this gathering are sorted out, TALKERS will provide in-depth, detailed coverage of the conference in the days and weeks ahead including posting videos of its key segments.  See a selection of photos from TALKERS 2024 Radio and Beyond below.

im

KIRO Newsradio 97.3 FM, Seattle afternoon talk show host John Curley was the 2024 recipient of the TALKERS Humanitarian of the Year award (the Sharon L. Harrison Memorial Award for Community Service). He is pictured delivering his acceptance speech discussing the importance of using your platform for good causes.

im 

Michael Harrison (l) interviewed Fred Toucher (r), morning show co-host of WBZ-FM 98.5 The Sports Hub, Boston in a fireside chat titled, “The State of Sports Talk Radio.”  The discussion included comparisons between sports talk and news/talk radio, the benefit of sports talk hosts operating in on-air teams, the relationship sports talk hosts have with home teams and their ardent fans, dealing with harsh criticism on social media, the impact of gambling on sports talk radio, the challenges hosts are facing in covering women’s basketball and more.

im

One of the many highlights of the conference was a blessedly civil “Great Debate” between WYD Media syndicated host Thom Hartmann (c) representing the left and Salem Radio Networks host Mike Gallagher (r) representing the right.  The session was moderated by Lee Harris (standing l), director of integrated operations, NewsNation/WGN Chicago.

im

The panel session titled, “Behind the Mic,” delved into the issues and challenges faced today by talk radio talent. Participants included (l-r) Jeff Katz, WRVA, Richmond; Frank Morano, WABC, New York/Red Apple Media; Martha Zoller, WDUN, Athens, GA; Moderator Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo, Compass Media Networks; Dom Giordano, WPHT, Philadelphia; Howie Carr, Howie Carr Radio Network; and Chris Krok, WBAP, Dallas.

Industry News

TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond Achieves Goals and Exceeds Expectations

By TALKERS | by TALKERS
WABC/Red Apple Media co-owners, John Catsimatidis (l) and his wife Margo Catsimatidis (r) are pictured with TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison (c) at “TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond.” This photo was taken immediately following the presentation of the 2024 Gene Burns Memorial First Amendment Award to John Catsimatidis and his acceptance address. The long-running annual honor is commonly referred to as the TALKERS Freedom of Speech Award. 

The 27th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest running, and most important national event took place this past Friday (6/7) at Hofstra University on Long Island. TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond – like its colorful predecessors – was an advance sellout. The power-packed, one-day agenda featured a roster of more than 60 speakers from all ends of the talk radio and related talk media industries including talent, station owners, CEOs, programmers, technical experts, journalists, syndicators, and a wide variety of visionaries. The annual talk media industry tradition was presented by TALKERS in association with the prestigious university’s multi-award-winning station WRHU Radio and Hofstra’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication. Key discussions included “Gaining Traction in a Noisy World,” “The Case for AM Radio,” “Generating News/Talk Revenue in the Digital Era,” “The State of Sports Talk Radio,” “The Brave New World of Technological and Generational Change,” “Programming News/Talk Radio,” “Perspectives on Hosting Television Talk,” “Philanthropy and Community Service,” “The Art of Story Telling,” “Talk Radio Programming Opportunities Beyond Politics,” “Meeting the Challenges of Being a Talk Talent,” “The Big Picture of Radio’s Role in a Rapidly Changing World,” and “The State of the First Amendment” among others. As the volumes of data generated by this gathering are sorted out, TALKERS will provide in-depth, detailed coverage of the conference in the days and weeks ahead. Check out the official Program Guide here. 

Industry Views

Pending Business: Post-Game

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

imIn case you missed it, honesty was on full display at Friday’s TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond conference.

Sometimes honest or transparent B2B conversations are difficult to digest. But when the truth is presented in an open forum designed to educate and motivate better to listen closely.

High five to keynoter Glenn Beck who shared his personal journey from the bottom to the top. His keynote was clear, honest messaging. Fame and fortune are no substitute for being true to yourself, honest about why and what you do in this business. What will you contribute that will make a difference? Love him or hate him, Beck is a proven, successful professional at what he does best: make you think.

Straight forward hallway conversations with fellow panelist Vince Benedetto, CEO of Bold Gold Media, were philosophical eye openers. Vince is a young, successful owner operator of small and medium market radio stations. Why is radio perceived as a “still is” good business when all his teams know is today’s success? Did someone tell him sales orders rolled in on fax machines? If that was the case, maybe radio stations should go back to faxing. Vince has no rear-view mirror, no experience with the “good old days” – just today’s and tomorrow’s successful opportunities. I explained to Vince, I’ve worked with the frenemy, and it is the generation ahead of him. We who overlook and assume the basics of over 90% radio listenership. It is us who need a look in the mirror!

A moment of honesty comment from John Caracciolo, CEO of JVC Media, was short and to the point, “Where are the bankers?” Nowhere near most local radio station owner operators. Maybe that will change as more terrestrial radio owners, managers, and talent fast forward embracing the future of digital and social media integration.

The research Salem Media Group SVP Phil Boyce shared was inspiring and thought provoking. His numbers tell the compelling story of audience dynamics and choices, especially when we hear how people are listening to radio for longer periods of time. Does anyone honestly care to pitch that key sales point?

Let’s wrap this column up with three key takeaways from the conference:

1. The radio business is alive but wrestling with a future crowded by aggressive competition from the new digital/social media frontier.
2. Successful leaders need trusted, experienced collaborators. Learn from the great Warren Buffet.
3. It takes passion, commitment, expertise, and a great team to stage the annual TALKERS conference. Thank you, Michael Harrison. I learned a lot!

Steve Lapa is the president of Lapcom Communications Corp. based in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Lapcom is a media sales, marketing, and development consultancy. Contact Steve Lapa via email at: Steve@Lapcomventures.com.

Industry News

Ray Stevens Back on Mornings at WLS-AM, Chicago; Steve Cochran Exits

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Cumulus Media made sweeping changes to news/talk WLS-AM, Chicago on Friday as it dropped the Steve Cochran morning drive show, “The Closing Bell” and “PM Chicago” and brings Ramblin’ Ray Stevens back to host the new morning show. The station also moves Westwood One’s Michael Knowles and Matt Walsh into the PM drive hours where “The Closing Bell” and “PM Chicago” had aired. The morning drive changeim also affects air personalities Andrea Darlas and Jane Clauss, but it appears Darlas will continue with the station for weekends and her podcast. WLS-AM program director Stephanie Tichenor says, “Ray has been part of the fabric of ‘The Big 89’ for years. We’re thrilled to have him back in morning drive on 890 WLS-AM.” Stevens comments, “I am beyond ecstatic to be back doing mornings at WLS and 890 in my hometown. Special thanks to Marv Nyren and Stephanie Tichenor for having faith and believing in me. Also special thanks to KCMO’s Donna Baker and Pete Mundo who’ve let me work middays at the radio station for the better part of the year. I can’t wait to get to work and be on the air at the legendary 890 WLS-AM talking NASCAR, politics, football, and everything that makes us the greatest city in the world!”

Industry News

TALKERS Conference is an Advance Sellout

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The 27th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest-running and most important national event is set for Friday, June 7 at Hofstra University, just outside of New York City on Long Island. TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond – like its colorful predecessors – is an advance sellout.  The power-packed, one-day agenda is spectacular! Check out the official Program Guide here. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, “Because the entire agenda of this year’s event will take place on the state-of-the-art television soundstage at Hofstra University’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication and a special staging area for individual interviews will be set up on an adjacent TV soundstage, the opportunity to create an in-depth video time capsule of this remarkably transitional moment in talk media history will be unprecedented.” Harrison adds, “The number of heavyweight players from all ends of the business gathered in one place for one day on a television soundstage will be of tremendous historical significance. We will grab the opportunity to save everything we can for posterity. This conference will be more than just another industry ‘convention.’ It will be a ‘symposium’ reflecting and preserving a remarkably colorful and historic era in American media and culture. Broadcasters and students of communications all over the world for years to come will bear witness to this ‘happening.’” The storied talk media industry tradition will again be presented by TALKERS in association with the prestigious university’s multi-award-winning station WRHU Radio and the school’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication. For last minute information, call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413.

Industry News

9th Music Industry Reunion: “The Best One Yet!”

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

im

The 9th annual Music Industry Reunion held in Los Angeles on May 22 brought together more than 120 of radio and record industry artists, managers, producers, lawyers, legends and pros to the Sagebrush Cantina in Calabasas, California. Former AllAccess publisher Joel Denver called it “The best one yet.” Legendary radio personality, actor and stand-up comedian Frazer Smith hosted the In Memoriam celebration of colleagues Dusty Street, Geno Michellini, and Jim Ladd that ended with a toast to their memory. Event organizers Jon Scott and Kenny Ryback welcomed folks who traveled from as far away as New York and Florida. Guest included: Val Garay, Michael Lloyd, Rick Frio, David Forman, J.B.Brenner, Mike Bone, Diane Bennett, Mike Gormley, David Helfant, Jean Johnson, Toby Mamis, Tommy Nast, Marsha Costa, Roy Trakin, and Steve Resnik.

Industry News

CRN Digital Announces Satellite Syndication Expansion

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

CRN Digital Talk Radio announces a new partnership with Salem Radio Network and Westwood One to expand its satellite radio syndication services and distribution. CRN president and CEO Michael Horn states, “The latest branch in the business will allow CRN to provide satellite time to those independentim shows looking for syndication opportunities. With all the changes in our industry it was the natural progression to provide a full range of services to our clients and work with our partner Salem Radio Network. CRN’s new syndication effort will use the Westwood One Wegener system. CRN says this project came to fruition with the help of radio industry affiliate relations pro Jon Patch, who comments, “I’m proud to be working with Mike and the CRN team to offer the newest technology from Westwood One and Wegener. Most radio stations already have this technology in their racks, which brings the most success to our partners.” CRN currently syndicates “The Michael Medved Show,” “The Ron Cey Show,” “The Fred Dryer Show,” “The Conversation,” “Speaking Out America,” “What’s Cookin’ Today,” “What’s Cookin’ on Wine,” “The Lounge,” and more.

Industry Views

WABC, New York Morning Host Sid Rosenberg is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

77WABC, New York morning show host Sid Rosenberg is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Rosenberg, who is a Jewish native New Yorker and outspoken supporter of Israel, risked his life this past Friday evening (5/17) on a Brooklyn-bound subway train standing up and defending an orthodox Jewish man being threatened with physical assault by an obscenity-spewing, anti-Semitic African American man who appeared dangerously amped up on drugs. The story is compelling and offers insight into the hate and dangers that are on full display in the Big Apple. Harrison and Rosenberg discuss the dangerous spread of anti-Semitism in America, the disturbing behavior of Gen Z on college campuses, and the rise in crime on the streets of America’s leading urban centers. This powerful conversation is not to be missed. Listen to the podcast in its entirety here. 

Industry News

WABC’s Sid Rosenberg Confronts Man Threatening Jewish Commuter

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

WABC, New York morning drive talk host Sid Rosenberg tells TALKERS he witnessed an anti-Semitic assault on a Jewish commuter on a New York subway train on Friday (5/17). Rosenberg says, “On the downtown 5 train from 42nd street. I get on the train, and I walk by a guy with a yarmulke standing by theim door. I sat down next to him. Seconds later an angry, half-drunk African American guy starts digging his finger into the Jewish man’s chest while yelling, ‘I aint gonna fight for you! I ain’t gonna fight for you! You genocide Jew mother*cker.’Needless to say the Jewish man was scared to death. Noticing that I stood up and proudly proclaimed, ‘I’m Jewish, too!’ I stood next to the Jewish man, arms folded, while the big-mouth bully walked to the end of the car. He continued to rant and holler but he was no longer a physical threat. The scumbag exited the train at the Brooklyn Bridge stop while I sat next to the Jewish man ‘til I got off at Wall Street. He was on his way home to Crown Heights for Shabbat. He said to me, ‘I have no doubt if you didn’t stand up that guy would’ve hurt me. I know who you are. I listen to you. I know you’re a lover of the Jews. I wish people could’ve seen this. Thank you for helping me get home safe for Shabbos. Am Yisrael Chai!’ I will fight for my people despite the potential physical harm to me. God Bless Israel and continue to protect my people!” Don’t miss Sid Rosenberg’s guest appearance on the new installment of the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” He and Harrison candidly discuss the incident and Rosenberg’s position on Israel, Hamas, Gen Z, and NYC crime. It posts tomorrow morning on Talkers.com.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: WHY Are You Podcasting?

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imBecause you can? Because you aren’t doing AM/FM radio? Because you are on radio, but can’t-do-there what you can-do podcasting? Because you are making money podcasting?

Podcasters I help must first survive a conversation about WHY. “It’s a success…if…” WHAT?

Wired magazine co-founder Kevin Kelly reckons that “a creator, such as an artist, musician, photographer, craftsperson, performer, animator, designer, video maker, or author – in other words, anyone producing works of art – needs to acquire only 1,000 true fans to make a living.”

Devour these four pages he wrote – a genuine whack-on-the-side-of-the-head – and the structure for my coaching: http://getonthenet.com/1000TrueFans.pdf

im

What you read there may change how you approach the podcast you’re doing… or nudge you into podcasting if you don’t. As does the Edison Research 2024 Infinite Dial survey. Here’s that download, and a cautionary video from TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison: http://getonthenet.com/podcasting.html

Next Monday is Memorial Day here in the USA, so I’ll be back here on “…the third of June.” If you work mornings, this is my last column you will see before your show that day, so make a note in your bumper file: Bobbie Gentry, “Ode to Billy Joe.”

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “The Local Radio Advantage: Your 4-Week Tune-In Tune-Up,” and “Close Like Crazy: Local Direct Leads, Pitches & Specs That Earned the Benjamins” and “Confidential: Negotiation Checklist for Weekend Talk Radio.” Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke and connect on LinkedIn

Industry Views

WIP Sports Talk Pioneer Howard Eskin is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Philadelphia sports talk media founding father Howard Eskin is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Eskin’s stellar career in radio and TV goes all the way back to 1972 and his impact on local media in the City of Brotherly Love is indelible. He still maintains an active presence as sports radio personality for WIP-FM 94.1 and anchor at FOX 29 News in addition to being a sideline reporter for the Eagles Radio Network. Eskin has hosted/anchored more than 8,000 sports radio programs in his career, which is likely the most by any sports radio personality in American broadcasting history. Harrison and Eskin discuss the state of sports, media, big money, the impact of gambling and the generational divide per the multi-award-winning host’s recent commencement speech at Goldey-Beacom College in Wilmington, Delaware where he received an honorary doctorate in acknowledgement of his contributions to media, culture and philanthropy. Don’t miss this! Listen to the podcast in its entirety here.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

New WZLX, Boston morning host Rich Shertenlieb announces the cast members for his program on the iHeartMedia classic rock outlet and they are going heavy on sports content from the looks of it. Joining Shertenlieb will be Boston TV personality and sports writer Michael Hurley, plus a rotating cast including former New England Patriot Ted Johnson; FOX Sports, ESPN and Sports Illustrated personality Charlotte Wilder; and NFL Network alumnus Mike Giardi.

Cumulus Media’s sports talk WMAL-AM, Washington, DC announces its partnership with National Women’s Soccer League’s The Washington Spirit that will feature the broadcast of 13 regular season matches. Bram Weinstein will serve as play-by-play voice while former Spirit player Gaby Vincent will serve as color commentator. Michael Minnich will provide additional commentary during broadcasts and serve as an alternate for both Weinstein and Vincent.

PodcastOne announces the new podcast, “We (Almost) Made It” with Bryan Greenberg and Victor Rasuk. PodcastOne will oversee the exclusive distribution, sales rights and production of the weekly TV & film podcast. Greenberg and Rasuk co-starred in the cult favorite HBO series “How to Make It in America.” PodcastOne president and co-founder Kit Gray says, “Bryan and Victor are the embodiment of making it happen. When they pitched us this podcast, their passion, their collaborative spirit and their excitement rivaled that of our own internal team at PodcastOne, and we knew instantly that this was a good fit.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s (5/14) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Michael Cohen’s testimony in former President Donald Trump’s “hush money” trial; the Biden administration’s weapons deal with Israel; President Joe Biden increases tariffs on numerous Chinese goods; the presidential race; inflation and the state of the U.S. economy; Tuesday’s primary elections; Russia ramps up attacks on Ukraine; the bird flu in cows were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.