Industry News

KTKZ, Sacramento Helps Draw Crowd to Protest California Bill

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Salem Media Group says its news/talk KTZK, Sacramento “1380 The Answer” help bring the crowd pictured above to the California State Capitol Building to support the protest against AB 495 organized by Calvary Chapel Chino Hills pastor Jack Hibbs yesterday (8/19). Salem Radio Network VP/news & talk programming Tom Tradup says the rally was “the latest example of how talk radio’s one-on-one relationship with listeners can help promote citizen action when lawmakers endanger the rights of parents and children in California or anywhere else across America.” The bill was subsequently returned to committee pending further study.

Industry Views

The Annual (Radio Station) Physical

By Jonathan Little
TroyResearch
President

imgAn annual physical is a wise idea. Doc asks, “How are you doing?”. Then he or she asks some detailed questions based on your medical history. Then “how have you been feeling? Any issues?” Doc always orders blood draws to see what might be lurking. Is the statin drug keeping your cholesterol in check? Are you getting plenty of exercise, plenty of sleep? How’s your diet? Over the years, I’ve visited about my health with at least a dozen different doctors. I’m convinced that the good ones always ask good questions and then listen carefully. Good questioner – good listener. That’s the doc I can respect and put my trust in. 

If you operate a radio station, your station could benefit from an annual physical. You already know how it’s doing based on ratings, revenue, and profit. Your listeners know how you’re doing for them personally because they’re the users of your radio product. Is it pleasing, challenging, inspiring or annoying, irritating, and easily ignored with a click? If you ask them, they’ll tell you. You should ask them at least once a year. 

TroyResearch has been in the business of asking listeners what they think for 27 years. We recently teamed up with Midwest Communications, Inc., in Green Bay to conduct an exploratory research project with their news/talk station WTAQ. TroyResearch’s association with MCI goes back nearly 27 years, doing music and perceptual research for the Duke Wright music stations. The WTAQ project was something new. Our goal was to discover what actionable data the opinions of loyal listeners might produce. TroyResearch worked with VP Programming Jeff McCarthy and Operations Manager Jason Hillery to develop a 25-question study. 

Survey respondents were recruited over the air and were encouraged to go to the WTAQ website to take a brief survey. Clearly, we wanted to hear from P1’s, those listeners who produce 60%+ of reported listening. Their answers provided a clear picture of WTAQ loyalists – what they like, what they don’t like, their political affiliation, their listening behaviors (radio, podcasts, TV news, cable news, etc.), favorite news outlets, trustworthiness of news outlets, their thoughts about protests becoming riots, and their favorite podcasts to mention a few. 

More than 200 respondents, Persons 18+, completed the WTAQ perceptual study. (32% 18-54, 68% 55+). With Jeff’s and Jason’s permission, we share some results. 

Political Affiliation

1% Democrat
78% Republican
15% Independent
6% Other, like Libertarian, Socialist

In car listening

80% Local radio
10% Satellite radio
6% Streaming services like Spotify
3% Podcasts
1% Other like personal playlists 

Listening to WTAQ, which simulcasts

76% FM
9% AM
8% Streaming from WTAQ app
6% Streaming from a smart device
1% Streaming from WTAQ.com

Where do you get your news? (Select all that apply)

93% Radio
46% Broadcast TV (local channels)
41% Cable news like Fox, CNN, MSNBC
29% Social Media like X, Facebook, Tiktok
16% Internet news like NY Post, Washington Post
10% Newspaper
12% Other 

Your primary news source

58% Radio
15% Cable news like Fox, CNN, MSNBC
8% Broadcast TV (local channels)
7% Internet news like NY Post, Washington Post
7% Social Media like X, Facebook, Tiktok
3% Other
1% Newspaper

When does a protest/demonstration become a riot? (Select all that apply)

85%+ When protesters strike police, throw projectiles, set fires, do property damage
75% When protesters spit on police officers
60% When protesters burn the American flag
37% When protesters curse at police officers

Do you listen to podcasts?

23% Frequently
29% Occasionally
35% Rarely
13% Never

What podcast platform do you use? (Select all that apply)

32% YouTube
25% Spotify
19% iHeart
19% Apple
10% Amazon
2% Rumble
1% The Blaze
1% Daily Wire 

As a broadcaster that reports news and information, WTAQ is interested in knowing how trustworthy you consider the reporting presented by these companies. (1 = very untrustworthy, 5 = very trustworthy)

4.43 WTAQ Radio, Green Bay
3.78 Fox News
3.59 Fox 11, Green Bay
2.92 WBAY, Channel 2, Green Bay
2.83 WFRV, Channel 5, Green Bay
2.77 WHBY Radio, Appleton
2.71 NBC 26, Green Bay
2.22 Green Bay Press Gazette
2.01 Wisconsin State Journal
1.99 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
1.46 MSNBC
1.37 CNN 

WTAQ asked the 0-10 Customer Endorsement Score question – “On a scale of 0-10 how likely would you be to recommend WTAQ to a friend or colleague?” Those scores reflect the listeners’ opinions of how the station is doing and it’s a forecast of WTAQ’s future. As a rule, a CES of 50 or higher indicates a healthy and sustainable product. WTAQ scored a strong 73 Customer Endorsement Score. 

VP Jeff McCarthy and OM Jason Hillery are pleased with the results of this exploratory study. The WTAQ Sales Team is delighted with the data. 

Good questioner … Good listener! WTAQ asked good questions. And now their leadership team is “listening” to the answers and determining what adjustments, if any, may result in improved ratings, revenue, and profit, on the way to an 80 Customer Endorsement Score with the next WTAQ study. 

Jonathan Little is president of TroyResearch. He can be phoned at 608-219-1077 or emailed via: jlittle@troyresearch.net

Industry News

NPR Remains Atop Triton Digital Podcast Ranker

Triton Digital publishes its July 2025 U.S. podcast ranker based on weekly average downloads for publishers who opt in and NPR’s “NPR New Now” and “Up First” stay in the #1 and #2 spots, respectively.img Salem Podcast Network’s “The Charlie Kirk Show” remains ranked #5 while Cumulus Podcast Network’s “Shawn Ryan Show” rises one place to #6. Other talk radio related shows of note include: Cumulus Podcast Network’s “VINCE” dipping three places to #13; iHeart Audience Network’s “Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show” rising two places to # 14; and Cumulus Podcast Network’s “Mark Levin Show” falling six places to #35. See the complete ranker here.

Industry News

Michael DelGiorno Show Hits 100-Affiliate Mark

Premiere Networks is celebrating the 100-affiliate mark for “Your Morning Show with Michael DelGiorno.” This comes as iHeartMedia’s WKIP, Poughkeepsie “NewsRadio 1450/1370 WKIP” adds the show to theimg 6:00 am to 9:00 am slot. DelGiorno comments, “I love every listener and city equally, but I’d place Poughkeepsie in the memorable class alongside Nashville (my first affiliate), Detroit (my 50th), and now Poughkeepsie (100th). I’ll always remember this moment! I’m thrilled to be on the Hudson River, serving this great audience, and I look forward to seeing where the river leads me in the months and years ahead.”

Industry Views

Monday Memo: CeaseFire

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imgAs TV touts its perennial New Fall Season, our DVR is already set to “record series” so we can pick-up where the “Matlock” sequel left-us-hanging; and for a third season of quirky “Elsbeth” (a closet reboot, the female “Columbo”). And where I live – where everyone seems to know everyone – we are salivating for “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island.”

Enduring as its hourglass, “The Days of Our Lives” – which NBC punted to Peacock – is renewed for season #61. As Max reverts to the HBO brand, “The White Lotus” will be back for its 4th. “American Idol” will vet a 24th crop of crooners; “America’s Funniest Home Videos” will share a 36th batch of bloopers; and America’s argument will remain unresolved on every channel… except one.

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Nonprofit C-SPAN – the Switzerland of cable news – presents “CeaseFire,” a weekly show where “Democrats and Republicans come together to solve problems and discuss the great challenges facing our nation… during a time when division and dysfunction dominate the national conversation.”

And who better to U-turn the “Crossfire” template that pits partisan pundits against each other than the suit who oversaw it, longtime CNN EVP and Washington bureau chief Sam Feist, now C-SPAN CEO. “In a media landscape that too often rewards outrage over understanding,” he reckons “‘CeaseFire’ stands out by showing what respectful, principled conversation looks like.”

“Like sands through the hourglass,” radio’s talk format was an early 1990s Revolution. Now – like the AM band it buttressed as long as possible – WHAT IF…

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a media consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

RTDNA Announces National Murrow Winners

The Radio Television Digital News Association announces the winners of the 2025 national Edward R.img Murrow Awards for Television, Radio and Digital news operations at the network, large market and small market levels. Radio Network winners include ABC News, NPR and Canada’s CBC. Radio station winners include: KMOX, St. Louis; WSB, Atlanta; WTOP, Washington; and WWNC, Asheville. The presentation of the awards will take place on October 13 at Gotham Hall in New York City. See all the winners here.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (August 11-15, 2025)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (8/11-15) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

Stories

1. Trump-Putin Summit / Russia Ukraine War
2. Trump Tariffs / Economy / Social Security
3. Texas Redistricting Battle
4. Israel-Gaza War
5. The Epstein Files
6. National Guard in Washington, DC
7. ICE Raids
8. DOJ’s Trump-Russia Investigation
9. Artificial Intelligence
10.Trump Lincoln Center Plans / Melania to Sue Hunter Biden

People

1. Donald Trump
2. Vladimir Putin / Volodymyr Zelenskyy
3. Benjamin Netanyahu
4. Jeffrey Epstein / Ghislaine Maxwell
5. Greg Abbott
6. Kristi Noem / Pam Bondi
7. Xi Jinping / Narendra Modi
8. Sam Altman / Elon Musk
9. Sylvester Stallone / Gloria Gaynor / KISS
10.Barack Obama / Joe Biden / Melania Trump / Hunter Biden

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

Industry Views

SABO SEZ: The Future Will Include a Need for Talk Show Hosts

By Walter Sabo
a.k.a. Walter Sterling, Host
WPHT, Philadelphia, “Walter Sterling Every Damn Night”
And TMN syndicated, “Sterling on Sunday”

imgThe problem with technocrats is they believe computer programs and machines solve all problems. A technocrat in charge of a business will it kill it, for sure.  For example, once a movie theatre is automated, not requiring a pesky projectionist or even a snack counter attendant, you and I would still not buy a ticket – unless the theater was showing an actual MOVIE!

A radio company can “invest” in automation systems like Wide-orbit, saving an outrageous 15 bucks an hour for a “board op” or NexGen or NewsBoss. None of those systems win a single Nielsen meter.

The future of the radio medium is determined by its ability to attract an audience. Audience is obviously not built by technology but by compelling hosts. This phenomenon is eternal. For over 100 years, listeners have been attracted by personalities, ideas, information, songs, jokes, passion.

PREDICTION: Tech, AI will not replace any truly talented talk radio host by a mile.

One More Thought: Write a Letter

What can a host do to secure their essential participation beyond prepping a show? Write a letter! My Dad was a retailer who bought a lot of radio time. In his office he had a credenza of awards, family photos, and… framed letters from radio personalities. Spending hours in the car with a radio voice turns that voice into a star. Receiving a letter from a star is a life event. My Dad framed the letters he got from his favorite radio stars who hosted the shows he sponsored.

All the damn spots we air are actually invitations to send fan mail to the advertisers. Cheesy, yes, but the autograph industry is robust. The more ways a host engages with advertisers and listeners (touchpoints), the more secure their job becomes.

Walter Sabo has been a C Suite action partner for companies such as SiriusXM, Hearst, Press Broadcasting, Gannett, RKO General and many other leading media outlets. His company HITVIEWS, in 2007, was the first to identify and monetize video influencers.. His nightly show “Walter Sterling Every Damn Night” is heard on WPHT, Philadelphia. His syndicated show, “Sterling On Sunday,” from Talk Media Network, airs 10:00 pm-1:00 am ET, and is now in its 10th year of success. He can be reached by email at sabowalter@gmail.com.

Industry News

New Research: The Most Avid NFL Fans Live on Sports Audio

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New research from Audacy and Vision Insights reveals that the most passionate NFL fans aren’t just watching games – they’re living the NFL lifestyle through sports audio. Over 80% of NFL fans listening to sports talk radio, play-by-play, and sports podcasts identify as avid fans – outpacing TV viewers and social media followers. These listeners are also a marketer’s dream: higher incomes, more spending power, and deeper emotional connections to brands that support their teams. Audacy’s sports network claims to reach more monthly listeners than the next three competitors combined, making it the largest home for NFL diehards.

Please click here for full survey results.

Industry News

“Verdict with Ted Cruz” Reaches 200th Affiliate Milestone

Verdict With Ted Cruz Header

Premiere Networks announced today (8/12) that “Verdict with Ted Cruz” has reached the 200th affiliate milestone with the addition of Audacy’s WRVA 1140 AM / 96.1 FM – Richmond’s News & Talk. Effective immediately, the weekly one-hour program joins the station in the 9:00 pm ET timeslot on Sundays.  WRVA logo 2020The program is hosted by U.S. Senator Ted Cruz and Premiere Networks-syndicated radio personality and podcaster Ben Ferguson who break down the most important news stories of the week and what they mean for Americans. “Verdict with Ted Cruz was first launched as a podcast in January 2020. Premiere Networks expanded the podcast into a weekly one-hour radio program for talk radio stations, which debuted on 100 stations in April 2025.

Industry News

Newsmax Set to Host Major Celebration in Israel Tomorrow (8/13)

Newsmax is set to host its fourth annual “Fourth of July” celebration in Israel tomorrow (8/13) bringing together an elite gathering of political, business, and media leaders including personalities from American talk radio.  The high-profile event will take place at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in Jerusalem, which has become a highlight of the summer social calendar in Israel.

Newsmax logo

Newsmax holds this reception each year to celebrate what the company describes as “the enduring friendship and shared democratic values between the United States and Israel.” This year’s celebration will be marked by a special appearance from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.  Netanyahu is expected to speak at about 1 p.m. EST in the U.S. with the address carried live on the Newsmax and Newsmax2 networks.

“America and Israel share a deep and unbreakable bond grounded in freedom, democracy, and mutual respect,” said Christopher Ruddy, CEO of Newsmax. “This gathering is an opportunity to celebrate those ties while also fostering dialogue and cooperation among leaders in politics, media, and business.”

The event comes at a time when Newsmax’s global footprint continues to expand, with its coverage now available in more than 100 countries across five continents.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Topics That Tune-Them-In

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imgBaby Boomers (born 1946–1964) are some 20% of the U.S. population, but control more than 50% of all household wealth. They hold $70+ trillion in assets and spend an estimated $548 billion annually. They are lifelong AM/FM listeners, and they’re redefining what life after 60 looks like. Are you into what they’re up to?

Some are having the time of their lives. Others are confronting new realities. All are seeking relevance, respect, and real-world information. Consider these issues for call-in topics and guest interviews and podcasts. Possibly a sponsored series?

Lifestyle & Purpose

— “How to Make Your Bucket List Actually Happen”
— “Finding Purpose Beyond the 9 to 5”
— “Encore Careers That Start with a Volunteer Gig”

Health & Wellness

— “Sleep After 60: What Changes and What Helps”
— “The Foods That Fight Brain Fog”
— “Fitness Without the Injuries: Smarter Workouts After 50”

Financial Confidence

— “How Much is Enough? Retirement Planning Backwards”
— “Social Security Myths That Could Cost You”
— “Turning Your Home into Income” (downsizing, ADUs, Airbnb)
— “Helping Without Hurting: When Adult Kids Need Financial Help”

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Freedom & Adventure

— “How to Travel More for Less”
— “National Parks Over 60: Hidden Gems and Senior Pass Tips”
— “Cool Day Trips”

Home & Relationships

— “Downsize Without Drama”
— “Living With – or Near – Your Kids: Pros, Cons & Boundaries”
— “Home Safety Upgrades You’ll Be Glad You Made”
— “The Second Time-Around Marriage: Legal & Emotional Realities”
— “Grandparenting Without Overstepping”

Learning & Creativity

— “The Science of Lifelong Learning: Why Your Brain Craves It”
— “It’s Never Too Late to Learn an Instrument (or a Language)”
— “Turning Your Life Story Into a Book – Or a Podcast”
— “Digital Detox: How to Stay Connected Without Feeling Glued”

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a media consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (August 4 – 8, 2025)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (8/4-8) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

Stories

1. Trump Tariffs
2. The Economy / Fed Policy
3. Texas Redistricting Battle
4. Potential Trump-Putin Meeting
5. The Epstein Files
6. Fort Stewart Shooting
7. ICE Raids / Detention Camp Plans
8. Israel-Gaza War
9. DOJ’s Trump-Russia Investigation
10.Sydney Sweeney Controversy

People

1. Donald Trump
2. Jerome Powell
3. Greg Abbott
4. Vladimir Putin
5. Jeffrey Epstein / Ghislaine Maxwell
6. Quornelius Radford
7. Kristi Noem
8. Pam Bondi
9. Benjamin Netanyahu
10.Sydney Sweeney

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

Industry News

Ben Stevens Joins VSiN

VSiN, The Sports Betting Network announces the addition of Ben Stevens to it staff. Most recently,img Stevens anchored weekday mornings on SportsGrid. VSiN EVP Steve Cohen says, “Ben is a terrific addition to the most trusted brand in sports betting information at a time when sports fans across the country look to us for information that helps them make informed college football wagering decisions. A seasoned on-air sports betting talent that can speak across all major sports, ‘Big 10 Ben’ has deep expertise in college football that our viewers and listeners will enjoy.”

Industry News

Nielsen and Edison Collaborate on “Podcast Fusion”

Nielsen announces a new collaboration with Edison Research to launch Nielsen Podcast Fusion powered by Edison Research. Nielsen says, “For the first time, advertisers and agencies will be able to plan, optimize and compare all major media types – including podcasts, TV, radio, digital and social – in oneimg place. This new data fusion will integrate the industry-leading Edison Podcast Metrics into Nielsen’s widely used media planning tool, Nielsen Media Impact img(NMI).” Nielsen adds, “As podcast listenership continues to grow, it is critical for advertisers to have sophisticated tools and data to effectively plan, measure and optimize their audio investments. Nielsen Podcast Fusion in NMI will provide an even more holistic view of media planning and help users uncover valuable insights and demonstrate the effectiveness of their campaigns. NMI users will also be able to optimize media plans by specific podcast networks and genres, as well as top podcast programs.” NPR and Ocean Media are among the charter subscribers at launch.

Industry News

FOX News and Tucker Carlson Rise in July Podtrac Ranker

Podtrac releases its Top Podcasts chart based on U.S. unique monthly audience for the month of July and the only move among the top five is FOX Audio Network’s FOX News Hourly Update rises one spot to #4,img leap-frogging Dateline NBC (#5). Otherwise, the top three remain (in order): “NPR News Now,” “The Daily” (New York Times), and “Up First from NPR.” “The Tucker Carlson Show” jumps six places to finish the month at #18. See the complete ranker here.

Industry News

Cumulus and Rumble Announce Partnership

Cumulus Media announces a strategic partnership with video-sharing and cloud services provider Rumble. Cumulus says this deal “will unlock new opportunities across Cumulus Media – including Westwood One and the Cumulus Podcast Network – and Rumble.com, including expanded distribution of content from both companies.” With this agreement, Rumble and Westwood One will collaborate to maximizeimg advertising opportunities for brand partners, packaging assets across each portfolio to create unique and exclusive multi-platform solutions. Westwood One will also distribute audio and video content on Rumble’s video platform. Westwood One president and Cumulus EVP corporate strategy and development Collin Jones says, “This partnership represents a powerful alignment between two media innovators. By combining our premium podcast inventory with Rumble’s dynamic creator ecosystem, we’re creating a new frontier for host-read advertising that delivers authenticity, scale, and brand safety.” Rumble CEO Chris Pavloski, adds, “We’re excited to partner with Cumulus Media and Westwood One to bring advertisers closer to the creators and audiences they care about. This collaboration allows us to create new monetization opportunities for our creators while offering brands a trusted and effective way to connect with engaged communities.”

Industry Views

They Say YOU Infringed – But Do THEY Own the Rights?

By Matthew B. Harrison
TALKERS, VP/Associate Publisher
Harrison Media Law, Senior Partner
Goodphone Communications, Executive Producer

imgYou did everything right – or so you thought. You used a short clip, added commentary, or reshared something everyone else was already posting. Then one day, a notice shows up in your inbox. A takedown. A demand. A legal-sounding, nasty-toned email claiming copyright infringement, and asking for payment.

You’re confused. You’re cautious. And maybe you’re already reaching for the fair use defense.

But hold on. Before you argue about what you used, ask something simpler: Does the party accusing you actually own the rights?

Two Main Reasons People Send Copyright Notices

1. They believe they’re right – and they want to fix it.  Sometimes the claim is legitimate. A rights-holder sees their content used without permission and takes action. They may send a DMCA takedown, request removal, or ask for a license fee. Whether it’s a clip, an image, or a music bed – the law is on their side if your use wasn’t authorized.
2. They’re casting a wide net – or making a mistake. Other times, you’ve landed in a mass enforcement dragnet. Some companies send thousands of notices hoping a few people will pay – whether or not the claim is strong, or even valid. These are often automated, sometimes sloppy, and occasionally bluffing. The sender may not own the rights. They may not even know if what you used was fair use, public domain, or licensed.

Mistakes happen. Bots misidentify content. Images get flagged that were never protected. Even legitimate copyright holders sometimes act too fast. But once a notice goes out, it can become your problem – unless you respond wisely.

The First Thing to Check Is Ownership

Most creators instinctively argue fair use or say they meant no harm. But those aren’t the first questions a lawyer asks.

The first question is: “Do they have standing to bring the claim?”

In many cases, the answer is unclear or flat-out “no.” Courts have dismissed copyright lawsuits where the claimant couldn’t show ownership or any active licensing interest. If they can’t demonstrate control over the work – and actual market harm – they may not have the right to sue.

What To Do If You Get a Notice

Don’t panic. Not all claims are valid – and not all claimants are in a position to enforce them.
Don’t assume fair use will protect you. It might, but only after ownership is clear.
Don’t engage emotionally. Responding flippantly can escalate things fast.
Do get help early. A media attorney can help you assess whether the claim is real – and whether the sender has any legal ground at all.

Matthew B. Harrison is a media and intellectual property attorney who advises radio hosts, content creators, and creative entrepreneurs. He has written extensively on fair use, AI law, and the future of digital rights. Reach him at Matthew@HarrisonMediaLaw.com or read more at TALKERS.com.

Industry Views

TV Trend is Radio Wake-Up Call

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imgSouth Florida viewers are confused. WPLG, which brands as “Local 10,” was an ABC-TV affiliate for 69 years… until yesterday. Now it’s more local than ever, after divorcing its network, whose programming moved to the FOX affiliate’s digital channels 18.1 and 7.2, now branded “ABC Miami.” Among courteous FAQs about this change on WPLG’s web site: “How do I rescan my TV?” to find ABC programming.

FAQ #1: Why is this happening? 

WPLG GM Bert Medina explains, “We made a generous offer to ABC, but it became clear the two sides were not going to agree to a new deal.”

Citing the FCC’s “interest in and the authority to promote the public interest and to ensure that local broadcast TV stations retain the economic and operational independence necessary to meet their public interest obligations,” Chairman Brendan Carr is investigating what he calls networks’ “attempt to extract onerous financial and operational concessions from local broadcast TV stations.” His recent letter to Comcast CEO Brian Roberts announced an inquiry into NBC practices that will also scrutinize other networks’ affiliation agreements. He reckons that networks threatening long-held affiliations “could result in blackouts and other harms to local consumers of broadcast news and content.”

“That’s why we have an FCC license.”

WPLG’s GM explains that “our job is to serve this community with news and local programming.” He – and his Berkshire Hathaway ownership – determined that “if we agreed to the ABC terms, that mission would have suffered.” The last straw? “Exclusivity, which is the core to our relationship, is disappearing. Even when ABC airs high-quality programming, like the Oscars, ABC airs that same programming on other platforms. We no longer feel we are getting what we pay for.”

Proud that “a majority of our staff grew up here,” Medina announced that WPLG is staffing up. “Instead of sending our money to New York, we will keep it in our community and use that money to finance a massive expansion in local news and other local programming. We are excited for the future of Local 10. Just watch us. We are about to serve this community in an even bigger and better way.”

Music has been commoditized 

It’s all over the other platforms and devices increasingly siphoning-off radio listening time and ad revenue. And unlike six-spot (or longer) stopsets now common on FM, streams’ spots are shorter and fewer. And there are NO commercials for paid subscribers who’ve had-it-up-to-here with broadcast music radio.

TV networks aren’t shy about hijacking affiliates’ viewers. ABC offers Disney+, CBS lures us to Paramount+, NBC touts Peacock. And network radio spots are plugging iHeart podcasts.

So, yuh. Make your station as smartphone friendly as possible. But when I jump in the car, and my phone pops-up on the dashboard radio once owned, what comes out the speaker still has to compete. And what is the ONE thing that streams that your robotic FM competitors don’t offer? “Local.”

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a media consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Salem Acquires Jim Fink Investing. Salem Media Group is acquiring Jim Fink’s suite of investment advisory products, including “Seasonal Stock Alert,” “Options for Income,” “Velocity Trader,” and “Inner Circle.” Salem is launching a dedicated online platform for Fink’s services at JimFinkInvesting.com. Roger Michalski is VP and publisher of Salem’s Eagle Financial Publications and he says, “Jim brings a unique depth of expertise in option spreads and seasonal trading strategies that perfectly complements Eagle’s existing offerings. We are excited to welcome Jim and his colleague Derek Myers to our growing team and to offer their proven insights to our subscribers.”

New Adds for “Amazing Americans.” Kate Delaney’s Talk Media Network syndicated weekend show “Amazing Americans” adds new affiliates as KLIS, St. Louis; WORD-FM, Daytona, and KBNP Portland add the show to their program schedules.

Rob Carson Back in DC. Newsmax talk host Rob Carson reveals that he has relocated to the Washington, DC area after 10 years in Kansas City. Carson says that he has built a studio in Alexandria, Virginia with the assistance and generosity of WGMD owner, Mark Guiliani. He adds that he decided to make the move to be “closer to the action” in DC.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: How You Tune Them Out?

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imgUnintentionally, your poorly phrased comment, dated reference, weary cliché, or offhand remark can at least subtly distance you from your listener and could undercut your credibility, offend, or even spark backlash.

Whether you’re a broadcaster, podcaster, newscaster, or you are crafting commercial or promo copy, take a fresh look at these often-overlooked pitfalls.

Dated references: Nothing can disrupt your listener’s day quicker than quickly changing weather. Being thought of as a weather source can advantage any station in any format. But you risk that currency by calling tomorrow “…a carbon copy of today.” Few under 50 have ever used carbon paper. And with weather more erratic lately, implying otherwise can make your forecast sound – forgive me – “like a broken record.” Also antique: “Rolodex,” now that listeners’ smartphones have “Contacts.” So, purge old-speak from “the radio dial.” Listeners (and advertisers) notice when we keep-up… or don’t.

Stereotyping: 

— “Soccer mom in a SUV” sure is the retail super-consumer advertisers want to see pull-into the parking lot. Visualize her in programming and promotion planning and sales prospecting… OFF-air stuff. But reinforcing gender roles and class assumptions ON-air paints a narrow picture of parenting and lifestyle, potentially alienating women.
— “You know how Millennials are.” Yes – like “Generation X” – they dislike being typecast, and you sound out-of-touch and judgmental.
— Calling someone “a Karen” can alienate listeners who have felt ridiculed suffering a situation similar to whatever you’re describing. And there are millions in the potential ratings sample named… Karen.
— “Probably some college kid with no clue how to drive in the snow” implies incompetence based on age and background. This kind of dig can undermine younger listeners or newcomers to your market.

Stereotypes are lazy, often a shortcut to humor or imagery. Ask yourself: “Is this something I’d say to someone’s face?”

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Insensitive Humor: “Looks like someone forgot their meds today!” can offend those quietly dealing with anxiety, or depression. Pandemic silver lining: Mental health is no longer a laughing matter. You may have seen TV PSAs by Howie Mandel, sharing how ADHD has impacted his life and asking that it not be a punchline.

“Potty-mouth:” Mom and Dad’s just-the-two-of-them vocabulary is different than the way they speak with kids in the car, and what they want to hear their children repeat after hearing on radio.

— “Pissed-off” has become unnecessarily familiar, particularly with recent inflation…with which we are “annoyed,” “fed-up,” and “frustrated.”
— Even if something sounds commonplace, origins or implications may make it unsuitable for all-audience radio. “Scumbag” began as a term for condom. “Sucks” and “screwed” also have sexual roots some consider vulgar.

Taboo red flags:

— “No offense, but…” or “I’m just saying…” often precede something offensive.
— “It’s just a joke!” often follows a crack at the expense of marginalized groups.
— “Everyone thinks that…” overgeneralizes and can alienate those who disagree.
— Mocking accents or speech patterns can come across as disrespectful rather than entertaining.
— “Real [men/women] do…” Gendered assumptions can feel exclusionary or outdated.
— “This [group] is always…” Sweeping characterizations often reinforce stereotypes.

Words have weight. In a medium where tone, timing, and trust matter, what we say – and how we say it – can either strengthen listener connection or erode it.

NEXT WEEK: Topics to Tune-IN the listeners you want most.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a media consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

Edison Research’s Publishes Top 50 Podcasts for Q2 of 2025

Edison Research releases its Top 50 Podcasts in the U.S. based on reach for Q2 2025 among weekly podcast consumers ages 13+. (Edison’s rankings now incorporate data from individuals whose soleimg podcast consumption in the past week was through video.) The top five podcasts didn’t change from Q1 data. They are: “The Joe Rogan Experience,” “Crime Junkie,” “The Daily,” “Call Her Daddy,” and “This Past Weekend w/Theo Von.” Some talk radio-related podcasts of note include: NPR’s “Up First” at #22; The Daily Wire’s “Ben Shapiro Show”; Ramsey Network’s “The Ramsey Show” at #29; and Charlie Kirk’s “The Charlie Kirk Show” at #49. See the chart here.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (July 28 – August 1, 2025)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (7/28-8/1) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

Stories

1. The Epstein Files
2. Tariff Deals
3. Fed Interest Rates Policy
4. Gaza Humanitarian Crisis
5. Colleges Settle with Trump
6. U.S.-China Trade Negotiations
7. ICE Raids
8. Texas Redistricting Map
9. Russia-Ukraine War
10.Deadly NYC Shooting

People

1. Donald Trump
2. Jeffrey Epstein
3. Ghislaine Maxwell
4. Bill Clinton
5. Barack Obama / Joe Biden
6. Jerome Powell
7. Benjamin Netanyahu
8. Mike Johnson
9. Vladimir Putin
10.Shane Tamura

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

Industry News

Florida Man Radio to Air on WYOO, Panama City

JVC Broadcasting will begin airing its Florida Man Radio Network programming on recently acquired WYOO, Panama City “NewsTalk 101.1,” effective August 4.  JVC says WYOO will carry the full Florida Man Radioimg lineup anchored by Shannon Burke (PM drive) and Bubba the Love Sponge (AM drive), and will welcome Panama City’s own Brian Rust to the network as the new 9:00 am to 12:00 noon host. JVC CEO John Caracciolo says, “This is more than a format flip; it’s a statement. By bringing WYOO into the Florida Man Radio Network, we’ve created a single, dominant talk radio platform that spans from Pensacola through Panama City and beyond. The Florida Panhandle is one of the most politically engaged and conservative regions in the country. This move allows us to deliver content that speaks directly to the values, voice, and lifestyle of real Floridians.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Edison Releasing Top Podcast Badges. Edison Research announces the release of an official Top Podcast badge for shows to use that designate them as having achieved a spot within the top rankings of weekly podcast listeners, based on Edison Podcast Metrics. The Top Podcast badge is available for shows in the Top 10, Top 25, and Top 50 rankings from Edison Podcast Metrics in both the U.S. and the UK.

Compass Enters Deal with Deja Vu. Radio personality and ABC Television contributor Déjà Vu is working with Compass Media Networks to manage all aspects of marketing, distribution, and advertising sales for “The Deja Vu Show.” She says, “I love radio, and it is my mission to continue to do whatever it takes to grow our presence on the radio in every possible market in the country.”

Audacy Partners with C-Word Podcast. Audacy Podcasts partners with award-winning writer, director, actor, and producer Lena Dunham and writer, historian, and curator Alissa Bennett to handle sales and distribution for their podcast, “The C-Word,” bringing the previously paywalled podcast to all major podcast platforms for free for the first time. The two creators say, “We loved making ‘The C-Word,’ and now we’re thrilled to bring her out of the vault and into the hearts of listeners everywhere. These stories are just as resonant today as when we first told them, and partnering with Audacy allows us to reach a broader audience.”

Industry News

The Ticket’s “Musers” Debut New Podcast

Cumulus Media announces that KTCK-AM/FM, Dallas-Fort Worth “The Ticket” morning drive show “Theimg Musers” – starring George Dunham, Craig Miller, and Gordon Keith – is joining the Cumulus Podcast Network. Calling it a natural extension of the daily radio program, Cumulus says “The Musers: The Podcast” will deliver exclusive podcast-only segments that fans won’t hear anywhere else. A new episode drops each Wednesday.

Industry Views

SABO SEZ: Top 40 is Always the Answer

By Walter Sabo
a.k.a. Walter Sterling, Host
WPHT, Philadelphia, “Walter Sterling Every Damn Night”
And TMN syndicated, “Sterling on Sunday”

imgReviewing radio’s challenges:

— Trouble attracting and growing younger demos
— Trouble appealing to youth-oriented advertisers
— Trouble generating excitement in our culture
— Trouble owning a seat in the news media
— Trouble attracting out of college/high school employees
in sales, management on air.

The answer is: Top 40 or, if you must, CHR. The answer has always been Top 40.

The brilliant Allen Shaw, president ABC FM Radio, CEO Beasley Broadcasting, CEO/owner Centennial, said, “And Top 40 will always have an important place in radio because it plays the most popular music therefore it will always have an audience.”

In reviewing Spring Nielsens, it is hard to find a Top 40 station that is #1 6+ in any city. Consider how odd that is. Since 1955 there have been hundreds of Top 40 stations that attracted dominant shares of audience.

No, not audience: fans. Passionate fans because music is passion. New music is more passion. Cultural pebbles between the songs dropped by passionate radio stars compel even more passion.

Big contests. Big promotions. Breaking music trends. Huge voices. Pounding jingles. Prizes: Trips to see Taylor Swift in the studio – in England. A week off from school, on us! Free pizza for 50 of your friends – for a year. A new red, customized Z-93 car in your driveway on your birthday. Ed Sheeran plays your prom! A limo to school on opening day. Big Time Rush sings at your street fair.

Alex Warren writes a song for you – and performs it for you. Gift certificates for CAMEO. The Apple package… an iPhone, iPad and MacBook Air.

Media Buyer: Hop on the station yacht this summer, let’s go for a sunset party cruise. One buyer wins this custom Mustang. Wherever you go on vacation, tab’s on us.

Excited? Radio is good at contesting, better than any other medium. Excitement in thin air is what radio does… well, used to do.

Of course radio is a low choice among fresh grads, 18-24s, and media buyers. Radio stopped making the best radio, stunning, pulsing, sexy, unpredictable. We stopped rolling out the red carpet: Hot, current, daring, dangerous… Top 40.

You were drawn to radio because of Top 40. Make that.

Walter Sabo has been a C Suite action partner for companies such as SiriusXM, Hearst, Press Broadcasting, Gannett, RKO General and many other leading media outlets. His company HITVIEWS, in 2007, was the first to identify and monetize video influencers.. His nightly show “Walter Sterling Every Damn Night” is heard on WPHT, Philadelphia. His syndicated show, “Sterling On Sunday,” from Talk Media Network, airs 10:00 pm-1:00 am ET, and is now in its 10th year of success. He can be reached by email at sabowalter@gmail.com.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: News/Talk’s New Fall Season

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imgWhy we’re already seeing TV tout its coming attractions: They understand how, after Labor Day, routines settle in. Viewers will be ready to re-engage.

Radio stations that treat September as just another month are missing an opportunity to reintroduce our relevance, refresh our programming, and remind listeners why we matter. After a summer of disrupted routines, school vacation, and scattered attention, commutes return, and schedules normalize. And we want to be the soundtrack. How?

1. Make listeners feel like they’re rejoining a conversation they care about. “Back to the grind? We’re back with what matters.”
2. Freshen your lineup or formatics. It’s a great time to introduce new contributors – analysts, columnists, or rotating guests with fresh perspectives. Debut a new segment: deeper dives, listener town halls, daily fact-checks, etc.
3. Update Imaging.Listeners tune to news/talk for clarity. At client stations, we’re refreshing IDs, show opens, transitions. Convey momentum and immediacy, and that you’ve got your listener’s back. Adjust clocks to improve flow and appointment tune-in. Even subtle changes, well-explained and promoted, can feel significant.

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4. TV has premieres. Radio can, too. Launch a limited-run podcast series and promote it on-air?
5. Promote like you’re running for election. Off-air marketing money may be scarce, but you have other arrows in your quiver: Daily topical on-air promos explain how listening will be helpful. Use social media to tease what’s upcoming, and to post ICYMI “Feature the Moments that Matter.” Ditto e-newsletters and station app alerts and, and partner mentions via local media or civic groups.
6. Sales! Help advertisers freshen their messages similarly.

Any station, any format, should reassert its role. And – as each day’s events impact everyday life – no other format can command more attention than news/talk. So, welcome back.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a media consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

Thomas Adds Saturday Show to TMN Offering

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Talk radio host Joe Thomas says his Talk Media Network-syndicated program “First Thing Today” is launching a live Saturday morning edition beginning August 2. Thomas says, “The workplace paradigm has changed. Most Americans work just as much on Saturday as they do Monday-Friday, so they need to be up on the news and need a chance to talk about it just as much then.” He notes that his first affiliate for this Saturday edition is JVC Broadcasting’s WRCN, Riverhead, New York (Long Island). Thomas says, “WRCN is where my career really took off. I learned so much there, met my wife there, had our first child while I was there so it was a thrill to hear that John Caracciolo and JVC were bringing me back to 103.9 FM on Long Island for the first time since 1995!” Stations interested in the show can inquire via: willis@talkmedianetwork.com.

Industry News

Warshaw’s Soros Fund Management Suit Changes Venues

Both parties in Connoisseur Media CEO Jeffrey Warshaw’s suit against Soros Fund Management and Michael Del Nin agreed to moving the matter from Superior Court in Bridgeport, Connecticut to the Complex Litigation Docket in Stamford. Warshaw is suing for breach of contract, unfair trade practicesimg and more in alleging that he had a deal with Del Nin in 2022 and began working together “to try to acquiring Cox Radio, with Del Nin agreeing that Warshaw would manage the business as CEO upon successful acquisition.” Warshaw also says he steered SFM and Del Nin to the deal that made SFM a majority stake holder of the new Audacy in early 2024 and alleges he was promised he’d be the next CEO of Audacy or that he would get 5% of SFM’s profits from the Audacy acquisition. As for the change of venue, both parties agree the case involves both complex legal issues and a claim for monetary damages. The defendants says it’s likely to require resolution of “complicated legal and factual issues.” (Del Nin has already moved to dismiss on jurisdiction grounds, which involves questions of constitutional law.) Plus, SFM anticipates the case will benefit from careful discovery oversight as it will need discovery from Warshaw as well as potentially from third parties, including from Connoisseur and the other investment firms Warshaw references in the Complaint.

Industry Views

Sean Hannity Guests on Harrison Video Show

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Talk media superstar Sean Hannity guests on the new installment of “Up Close Far Out with Michael Harrison.” Hannity is the long-running, reigning champion of both news/talk radio and cable news television. He’s seen nightly on the FOX News Channel and heard daily on more than 750 radio stations via Premiere Networks. Hannity has been expanding his platforms to include a special new premium channel titled FOX Nation and is stretching the subjects he discusses well beyond the realm of politics, for which he has become famous, including history, show business, sports, and even stand-up comedy. Harrison, publisher of the broadcasting trade journal TALKERS, engages Hannity in a candid conversation about his life and career – as well as the launch of a new four-part FOX Nation program he hosts titled, “Wanted Dead or Alive,” about famous outlaws and bank robbers of the early 20th century.

To watch the program in its entirety, please click here.

Industry News

Rich Eisen Returns to ESPN

Sports talk media personality Rich Eisen is returning to the ESPN radio fold, effective September 2. ESPN says “The Rich Eisen Show” will be available nationally on ESPN Radio, in addition to Disney+ and ESPN+img live in the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm daypart. The show will be simulcast live on Disney+ every day and on ESPN+ during select weeks in the year. In addition to his weekday show, Eisen brings his full podcast lineup from The Rich Eisen Podcast Network to ESPN platforms. Eisen says, “Once we struck a deal with Disney for the video version of The Rich Eisen Show, it made complete sense to migrate the audio version to ESPN Radio, where I got started in the terrestrial radio world almost 30 years ago. It’s just another way to return to my roots with my old and now new friends at ESPN and GKB. I couldn’t be more excited about our future together on multiple platforms.”