Industry News

Spotify Posts Q4 2023 Financial Date: Revenue Up 16%

Reporting both its fourth quarter 2023 and full-year 2023 operating results, Sweden-based Spotify reveals Q4 2023 revenue of €3.67 billion, an increase of almost 16% over the same period in 2022. Forim the full year of 2023, Spotify posted revenue of €13.25 billion, an increase of almost 13% over the full year of 2022. However, the company also reports a net loss of €70 million for Q4 of 2023 and a net loss of €532 million for the full year of 2023, the latter an increased loss of almost 24% from 2022 to 2023.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Audacy announces the launch of “One Handshake Away: Peter Bogdonavich & The Icons of Cinema,” a seven-part limited-run series featuring Academy Award-nominated director, writer, actor, producer, critic, and film historian Peter Bogdanovich in conversation with some of the greatest directors past and present including Orson Welles, Greta Gerwig, Quentin Tarantino, and Alfred Hitchcock from both new and never-before-heard archival interviews.

BIN: Black Information Network and iHeartMedia announce “Black Land,” a new podcast that will “look into the lives of ordinary people and bring to life their extraordinary tales of triumph and circumstance through the lens of community.” Hosted by Emmy-award winning, BIN: Black Information Network journalist Vanessa Tyler, the new series will dive deep into uncharted stories and give an overdue and deserving voice to those who have often experienced the other side of the American dream. Tony Coles, president, BIN: Black Information Network, says, “These stories are not just important – they are essential. We will continue to use this platform to amplify marginalized voices, foster understanding and contribute to a more inclusive, understanding, and compassionate world.”

Industry Views

Pending Business: One Special Person

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

imOne person can make a difference.

I thought my first boss invented that quote. Seems he borrowed the first half of JFK’s “One person can make a difference, and everyone should try.” It seems in 1964 former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy was describing JFK’s philosophy to a historian as opposed to offering a direct quote. Ultimately, the press attributed the quote to JFK. It’s the thought that counts.

Fast forward to my first management job in Buffalo, New York and the quote became a goal. Consider the GOATS we see in professional sports. Michael Jordan or Tom Brady could put a team on their back and 13 World Championships followed.

Now we see the phenomenon in the explosive intersection of pop culture and sports. Stand back fans, this is a lot bigger than Joe DiMaggio and Marilyn Monroe. This is about the two biggest brands on the planet today joining forces to move the needle in every measurable media metric and drive the commercial value of a partnership through the stratosphere while staying within the confines of good taste.

This is about Taylor Swift and NFL future hall of famer Travis Kelce. This storyline has driven the average ticket to Super Bowl 58 to over $6,000, gameday VIP treatment will run over $35,000.

What does all this heady superstar stuff have to do with us everyday radio/audio sellers and managers watching at home? The “one person can make a difference” theory can work for you.

Here is how:

1. Practice makes perfect. Ever think about how many hours Taylor Swift rehearses? Rumor has it she sings while jogging on a treadmill. Pass the oxygen. When Payton Manning worked out at full speed on an inclined treadmill, we asked him about that grueling drill. His answer was classic, “Ever been chased by a 300-pound lineman who can run 40 yards in 4.6 seconds?” How about you? What is your sales practice routine?

2. The need to be different. Every great athlete, performer, scientist, and innovative businessperson told themselves and anyone who would listen they had the need to achieve. What would your manager say if you said, “I am ready to deliver more sales than anyone else who ever worked here!”

3. The long haul. On the way to achieving their goals, the great ones have no clock, just focus. Even the great James Madison, the youngest framer of our Constitution would “sit for ideas” waiting until he could clearly process and communicate the concepts he was developing.

Too many sellers and managers take short cuts, give up before the 9th contact or move on to other jobs thinking the grass is greener. Be the one person who makes a difference and enjoy the game!

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 Views

Monday Memo: Calculating Taylor Swift

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imNow that every single thing is a political argument, the angry social media conversation about Taylor Swift is unsurprising. And with the Super Bowl looming, the decibel level amps-up.

So, kudos to SiriusXM and CNN host Michael Smerconish. I’ve previously cited him here as technique worth emulating when it comes to:

– Polling the audience on an ongoing basis (a sponsored feature on smart radio stations)
– Leveraging social media to give audience ownership of the show; and
– Genuine curiosity. His centrist approach earns him scorn from both sides in this Cold Civil War we’re living through. I can relate. When I managed WTOP, Washington, the quickest way to make the phone explode was to announce a crowd estimate for an abortion rally. Both sides jammed the lines to damn the number.

This preposterous Swift kerfuffle had been all heat until Smerconish shed light on it this past weekend. Noting rumors shared by FOX News that she would photobomb the Super Bowl with a Joe Biden endorsement, his poll question was “Could Taylor Swift determine the outcome of the presidential election?”

im

Just now, you answered that question in your own mind. But – for our purposes – the more useful approach is to consider information Smerconish curated unfiltered by personal politics:

– Swift has 279 million Instagram followers
– She has (so far) sold 4.35 million pricey tickets for The Eras Tour. Its “record-shattering revenue” (so far) is $1 billion+
– $200 million (so far) in tour merchandise. Her gray $45 T-shirt is now sold-out in all but 3XL and 4XL.
– 26 billion+ Spotify streams in 2023.
– SSRS polling: 59% of USA adults identify as Swift fans, 63% of women; and her fans are evenly divided 50/50 between Democrat or Dem-leaning and Republican or GOP-leaning.
– On her urging, several hundred thousand Americans younger than 25 have registered to vote.

Add it all up? “Taylor knows your social media interactions, where you saw her on tour, how much merch’ you’ve bought from her website, she knows the size of your T-shirt, the number of downloads you’ve made. We’re embarking on an election cycle which will be (a) the most expensive in history, and (b) will see much of the money spent on ‘micro-targeting,’ the use of online data to tailor – pun intended – advertising messages to individuals based on the identification of recipients’ personal vulnerabilities and interests. In order to target effectively, data is essential. And Taylor’s got lots and lots of it, and on a demographic that is exactly what the Biden team needs the most: disproportionally female, young, and passionate. With truly the touch of a button Taylor Swift is uniquely situated to use the data at her disposal to impact the presidential race.”

Leave it to your nerdy consultant to ask: Are WE using OUR listener data to OUR benefit?

Bigger-picture issues:

– Privacy: We have all volunteered LOTS of information about ourselves. Look what pops up in your email and your social media.
– Vulnerability of the Electoral vote process: The last two Republican presidents took office after losing the popular vote. Taylor Swift is my coastal Rhode Island neighbor, and if she votes here, neither of us matter. Our state has four electoral votes. Just 40 thousand-some popular votes in three key states gave Biden his 2020 win.
– Tone: The measurable appeal of Swift’s sunny disposition vs. “I am your retribution.”

Good for us. News/talk radio is in the suspense business. “What JUST happened??? What happens NEXT???” So, we should wish Nikki Haley well.

Inquisitive Smerconish sounds like dispassionate Mr. Spock: “What [Swift detractors on the right] should be worried about is her data.”

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

RAB Announces Staff Promotions

RAB announces the promotions of three staff members; Kim Johnson to vice president of professional development, Cynthia Pham to vice president of digital services, and Madison Wright to director of events and communications. Kim Johnson joined RAB in 2015 as account development manager. She joined RAB’s professional development department as director of sales in 2018. Cynthia Pham joinedim RAB in 2000 to help create databases and programming as RAB.com was emerging on the internet. Since then, she has designed RAB’s proprietary systems touching nearly every aspect of RAB services and operations including, RAB’s CRM product Account Manager, GoCart (RAB’s e-commerce platform), training and education management platform and Radio Mercury Awards’ database and entry platform. Promoted in July 2023, Madison Wright is the director of events and communications for RAB, intertwining her passions for public relations, social media and creating “memory-making moments” with her love for radio. RAB president and CEO Erica Farber states, “RAB is proud and delighted to promote all three dedicated and accomplished team members. I am truly excited to see how they will continue to grow professionally and super serve RAB’s membership.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

PodcastOne enters into a new agreement with Kelly Stafford for her “The Morning After with Kelly Stafford & Hank” podcast for exclusive distribution and advertising sales rights. The podcast starring the wife of LA Rams QB Matthew Stafford and Detroit TV news personality Hank Winchester launched in 2021 and joined the PodcastOne network in 2022. PodcastOne president and co-founder Kit Gray comments, “Kelly is a leading voice in the parenting influencer space. She has been a big part of our network, and we are thrilled to have her extend with us. We love the recent addition of Hank as co-host of ‘The Morning After’ and can’t wait to see where the show goes moving forward.”

GCN-syndicated talk host Dr. Daliah Wachs adds Jeri Lyn Broadcasting’s adult contemporary KHTS-AM/K251CF, Santa Clarita, California to its roster of affiliate stations. KHTS airs the program on Saturdays from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Virtual News Center adds Four Corners Broadcasting, LLC’s five stations serving the Durango, Colorado market to is roster of affiliates. Local newscasts are being anchored by Sandi Conner.

Industry News

SiriusXM Reports Q4 and 2023 Full Year Financials

Satellite and digital broadcaster SiriusXM reports its operating results for the fourth quarter of 2023 and the full year of 2023. For Q4, the company reports total revenue was basically flat at $2.28 billion compared to the same period in 2022. For the full year of 2023, total revenue was $8.9 billion, down just a half percent from the full year of 2022. For Q4, SiriusXM reports net income of $350 million, a decline of 3.5% from Q4 of 2022. For the full year of 2023, net income was $1.25 billion, up 3.7% over the netim income of $1.21 billion reported for the full year of 2022. The company says, “SiriusXM added approximately 131,000 new self-pay subscribers in the fourth quarter of 2023. For the full-year 2023, self-pay subscribers decreased by 445,000 and we ended 2023 with approximately 34 million total subscribers.” SiriusXM CEO Jennifer Witz comments, “In 2023, SiriusXM laid the groundwork for future growth through the successful launch of our next-generation platform and the new SiriusXM app. Our commitment to growth was also demonstrated by strategic content investments that expanded our reach to new listeners and by staying true to our identity as a hub for curated, live and on-demand audio experiences. As we look to 2024, our guidance reflects substantial efforts and investments to enhance the value proposition of our subscription and advertising businesses, which we believe will strengthen our long-term growth profile.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Research Director, Inc promotes Nicole Somerville to chief operating officer. Somerville joined the company in July of 1998 and has held several prominent positions over the past 25-plus years. In 2022, she began her role as data and production manager where she oversaw the process of transforming raw data into specific, actionable client deliverables.

iHeartPodcasts, Dan Patrick, and Never Ever Productions announce the addition of “Playing Dirty: Sports Scandals” to The Dan Patrick Podcast Network. The new podcast features stories from the dark side of sports – from passport doping and armed assault to car chases and sex scandals. The series is narrated by veteran ESPN personality Jay Harris and written by Emmy Award-winning sports broadcaster Jenn Brown and federal prosecutor Francey Hakes.

Audacy launches “Superfly,” a new, weekly spinoff of the comedy podcast, “Fly on the Wall,” created and hosted by Dana Carvey and David Spade. On “Superfly,” Carvey and Spade will riff on current events, pop culture, social clips, and audience submissions with their trademark hilarity, absurdity, and impressions, with guests appearing from time to time.

Industry News

Frank Morano Added to KMOX, St. Louis Lineup

Red Apple Audio Networks nationally syndicated overnight talk host Frank Morano’s program is added to the nightly lineup at Audacy’s heritage news/talk KMOX, St. Louis. “The Other Side of Midnight with Frank Morano” airs on the station from 1:00 am to 5:00 am. KMOX brand manager Steve Mooreim states, “We are excited to air ‘The Other Side of Midnight with Frank Morano.’ We were looking for a live, informative, interactive and entertaining show that will rekindle the joy of overnight radio.” Morano comments, “I’m excited to join the KMOX lineup and bring live programming to overnights in St. Louis. St. Louis is a terrific market and KMOX is a legendary talk station, with an incredible audience and history that goes back nearly a century. I’m looking forward to being a big part of their history when the chapter on their next century is written. We’re going to have a blast.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

iHeartPodcasts debuts episode two of “Finding Matt Drudge,” a limited series podcast hosted by longtime political journalist Chris Moody, who sets out to uncover the mysteries surrounding the Internet’s most enigmatic media mogul. The new investigative audio series will delve deep into the life and career of Matt Drudge, the reclusive figure and founder of The Drudge Report, with the ultimate goal of convincing Drudge to sit down for his first interview in years. Moody says, “Matt Drudge pushed the news industry into the Internet age and his site has remained relevant and engaging for decades. But he hasn’t given an interview in years. We’d like to hear his thoughts on his career, the media, politics and the state of the world. Drudge matters, and we’re interested in what he has to say. Call us, Matt!”

FOX Sports Radio, a division of Premiere Sports Network announces its plans to broadcast live from Las Vegas during Super Week. A number of the network’s programs will broadcast from Las Vegas all week long including “The Dan Patrick Show” from Fontainebleau Las Vegas and several other shows broadcasting from Radio Row at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center.

SiriusXM announces that subscribers will get access to full coverage of the 2024 NHL All-Star Weekend beginning today through Saturday (2/1-3) as SXM broadcasts from Scotiabank Arena in Toronto on the SiriusXM NHL Network Radio channel.

Industry News

Broadcasters Encouraged to Participate in United Nations World Radio Day 2024 on February 13

American radio broadcasters are invited and encouraged by UNESCO to participate in the forthcoming celebration of the UN “World Radio Day (WRD) 2024” which, among a number of facets, provides the industry with the opportunity to create connections with colleagues around the globe to generate international interviews and co-productions. TALKERS readers can register their shows, stations, and networks as being available for these connections and discover potential partners in the process. Find out more here. WRD 2024 will take place on February 13.

According to TALKERS founder Michael Harrison, executive advisor to UNESCO for World Radio Day 2024, “The time to get your platform listed on the international map of shows, stations and networks is now.  American radio professionals, as well as campus station staffers, can schedule interviews/conversations – either live or prerecorded – with their broadcast colleagues worldwide to compare and contrast the history and role of radio in their respective countries on or leading up to February 13.  These shows can be simulcast on both stations or simply be one personality interviewing another. Simply register as being open to joint initiatives for the 2024 celebration and fill out the form that will pop up if you, your station or network would be interested in partnering with others in this exciting process. Check regularly to see fellow broadcasters or partners who will keep registering between now and February 13.”

Industry News

FNC Marks 22 Years as Top Cable News Channel in 25-54 Demo

FOX News Channel announces that based on data from Nielsen Media Research, the cable news network achieves its 22nd consecutive year as the number one cable news network in total day and primetime. The company adds, “Since January 2002, FNC has remained the most-watched cable newsim network across both total day and primetime with total viewers and the 25-54 demographic. FNC continued its ratings dominance for the month of January and grew its primetime audience in total viewers versus January 2023. Additionally, FNC was the only cable news network to show year-over-year growth in the younger 18-34 demo, growing 18% in total day and 25% in primetime, while MSNBC and CNN are experiencing double-digit declines.” FOX News Media CEO Suzanne Scott comments, “Marking another historic feat is a true reflection of the unwavering dedication and outstanding talent that we have throughout the entire organization of FOX News Channel.”

Ratings Takeaways

Has All-News Taken A “Holiday?”

By Mike Kinosian
TALKERS magazine
Managing Editor

imEver since Arbitron (now Nielsen Audio) instituted the Portable People Meter as ratings currency in 2007, the “Holiday” ratings period has been a veritable goldmine for stations employing the wall-to-wall Christmas music programming strategy.

Adult contemporary comprises the overwhelming majority of those outlets.

Usually substantial, however, is the negative impact on many other formats in “Holiday” sweeps.

With that in mind, let’s review how all-news stations have performed in the last four “Holiday” survey periods.

The 2020 presidential election was held on November 3, thus exactly one month prior to the start of that year’s “Holiday” sweep (December 3). It should additionally be remembered that the COVID pandemic was roughly entering its tenth month. Eerily, the final day of that survey period was January 6, 2021, the day of domestic terrorism/insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

Over the course of the “Holiday” 2023 ratings period (December 7, 2023 – January 3, 2024), all-news operations again battled for listenership in the ongoing annual all-Christmas music environment. Ostensibly working in their favor, however, was that the 2024 presidential campaign was waging and the previous president was embroiled in a record number of legal cases/charges/indictments.

The following chart summarizes ratings performances of all-news stations in the four most recent “Holiday” sweeps.

                                                                 2020       2021       2022       2023

“Holiday” 6+ Share                                       3.70        3.32        3.50        2.88

December – “Holiday” Increase                       35%        40%        30%        5%

December – “Holiday” Decrease                      50%        50%        65%        85%

December – “Holiday” Flat                             15%        10%        5%          10%

Average December – “Holiday” Increase           +.31        +.22        +.28        +.40

Average December – “Holiday” Decrease          -.68         -.21         -.29         -.40

“Holiday” 6+ Market Rank                             #10.40    #12.15     #10.55     #13.20

  • The typical (6+) high-water mark logged by an all-news facility was 2020’s 70, more than eight-tenths of a share better than 2023’s 2.88
  • Four of ten (40%) all-news stations improved December 2021 – “Holiday” 2021 (6+)
  • On the other hand, 85% of these formatted stations witnessed (6+) December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 erosion
  • Note the virtual identical average increases/average decreases for all-news outlets in the last three “Holiday” sweeps
  • It was customary for an all-news facility to rank tenth in “Holiday” 2020 (#10.40), but thirteenthin “Holiday” 2023 (#13.20)

“Holiday” 2023 6+ Share (Highest to Lowest)

WTOP & WTLP, Washington            6.3

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Francisco    5.7

WBBM-AM & WCFS, Chicago          4.9

KYW, Philadelphia                         4.7

WBZ-AM, Boston                          4.7

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Jose           4.5

WWJ, Detroit                                4.3

WINS-FM, New York                      3.9

WINS-FM, Long Island                   3.3

KNX-FM, Los Angeles                     2.5

WCBS-AM, Long Island                  2.5

KNWN, Seattle                              2.3

WINS-FM, Middlesex                      1.8

WCBS-AM, New York                     1.6

KRLD-AM, Dallas                          1.4

WTOP & WTLP, Baltimore               1.0

WCBS-AM, Middlesex                     1.0

WDCH, Baltimore                          .8

WRAL-HD3, Raleigh                       .2

WNOH, Norfolk                             .2

“Holiday” 2023 6+ Fluctuation from December 2023

WCBS-AM, Long Island                  2.5   +.4

WWJ, Detroit                                4.3   Flat

WDCH, Baltimore                          .8     Flat

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Jose           4.5   -1.2

WINS-FM, Long Island                   3.3   -1.1

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Francisco    5.7   -.7

WTOP & WTLP, Washington            6.3   -.6

KYW, Philadelphia                         4.7   -.5

KRLD-AM, Dallas                          1.4   -.4

WBZ-AM, Boston                          4.7   -.4

WBBM-AM & WCFS, Chicago          4.9   -.3

KNWN, Seattle                              2.3   -.3

WCBS-AM, Middlesex                     1.0   -.3

WINS-FM, New York                      3.9   -.2

KNX-FM, Los Angeles                     2.5   -.2

WINS-FM, Middlesex                      1.8   -.2

WCBS-AM, New York                     1.6   -.1

WTOP & WTLP, Baltimore               1.0   -.1

WRAL-HD3, Raleigh                       .2     -.1

WNOH, Norfolk                             .2     -.1

  • WCBS-AM’s four-tenths uptick in Long Island represents the only all-news December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 increase (6+).

“Holiday” 2023 By Market Rank  

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Francisco    5.7   #3

WBBM-AM & WCFS, Chicago          4.9   #4

WTOP & WTLP, Washington            6.3   #4

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Jose           4.5   #4

WBZ-AM, Boston                          4.7   #5

KYW, Philadelphia                         4.7   #6

WINS-FM, New York                      3.9   #9

WWJ, Detroit                                4.3   #9

WINS-FM, Long Island                   3.3   #9

KNX-FM, Los Angeles                     2.5   #12

WCBS-AM, Long Island                  2.5   #12

WINS-FM, Middlesex                      1.8   #13

WCBS-AM, Middlesex                     1.0   #18

WCBS-AM, New York                     1.6   #19

KNWN, Seattle                              2.3   #20

WTOP & WTLP, Baltimore               1.0   #20

WDCH, Baltimore                          .8     #22

WRAL-HD3, Raleigh                       .2     #24

WNOH, Norfolk                             .2     #24

KRLD-AM, Dallas                          1.4   #27

  • Forty-five percent (45%) of all-news stations ranked in the top ten (“Holiday” 2023, 6+).

“Holiday” 2022 6+ Share (Highest to Lowest)

WTOP & WTLP, Washington            7.8

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Jose           7.0

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Francisco    6.7

KYW, Philadelphia                         6.2

KNWN, Seattle                              5.5

WBBM-AM & WCFS, Chicago          4.8

WBZ-AM, Boston                          4.8

WINS-FM, New York                      4.6

WWJ, Detroit                                4.5

WCBS-AM, Long Island                  3.8

WINS-FM, Long Island                    3.0

KNX-FM, Los Angeles                     2.5

KRLD-AM, Dallas                          2.2

WCBS-AM, New York                     2.0

WINS-FM, Middlesex                      1.7

WCBS-AM, Middlesex                     1.2

WNOH, Norfolk                             .8

WDCH, Baltimore                          .6

WRAL-HD3, Raleigh                       .2

WYTS, Columbus                          .1

“Holiday” 2022 6+ Fluctuation from December 2022

WINS-FM, New York                      4.6   +.4

KYW, Philadelphia                         6.2   +.4

WCBS-AM, Long Island                  3.8   +.4

KNWN, Seattle                              5.5   +.3

WBZ-AM, Boston                          4.8   +.1

WINS-FM, Long Island                   3.0   +.1

WYTS, Columbus                          .1     Flat

WTOP & WTLP, Washington            7.8   -.8

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Francisco    6.7   -.7

WNOH, Norfolk                             .8     -.7

KNX-FM, Los Angeles                     2.5   -.4

KRLD-AM, Dallas                          2.2   -.3

WCBS-AM, New York                     2.0   -.2

WBBM-AM & WCFS, Chicago          4.8   -.1

WWJ, Detroit                                4.5   -.1

WDCH, Baltimore                          .6     -.1

WRAL-HD3, Raleigh                       .2     -.1

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Jose           7.0   -.1

WINS-FM, Middlesex                      1.7   -.1

WCBS-AM, Middlesex                     1.2   -.1

“Holiday” 2022 By Market Rank  

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Francisco    6.7   #2

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Jose           7.0   #2

WTOP & WTLP, Washington            7.8   #3

KYW, Philadelphia                         6.2   #3

KNWN, Seattle                              5.5   #3

WBBM-AM & WCFS, Chicago          4.8   #4

WINS-FM, New York                      4.6   #5

WBZ-AM, Boston                          4.8   #6

WWJ, Detroit                                4.5   #7

WCBS-AM, Long Island                  3.8   #7

WINS-FM, Long Island                   3.0   #10

KNX-FM, Los Angeles                     2.5   #12

WINS-FM, Middlesex                      1.7   #14

WRAL-HD3, Raleigh                       .2     #16

WCBS-AM, New York                     2.0   #17

WCBS-AM, Middlesex                     1.2   #18

KRLD-AM, Dallas                          2.2   #20

WDCH, Baltimore                          .6     #20

WNOH, Norfolk                             .8     #20

WYTS, Columbus                          .1     #22

  • One of every two (50%) all-news facilities finished in the top ten (“Holiday” 2022, 6+).

“Holiday” 2021 6+ Share (Highest to Lowest)

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Francisco    6.7

WBZ-AM, Boston                          6.5

WTOP & WTLP, Washington            6.4

WBBM-AM & WCFS, Chicago          5.6

KNWN, Seattle                              5.5

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Jose           5.4

WWJ, Detroit                                5.0

KYW, Philadelphia                         4.7

WINS, New York                            4.4

WCBS-AM, Long Island                  3.1

KNX-FM, Los Angeles                     2.8

WINS, Long Island                         2.7

WCBS-AM, New York                     2.6

KRLD-AM, Dallas                          1.6

WCBS-AM, Middlesex                     1.6

WINS, Middlesex                           1.1

WNOH, Norfolk                             .4

WDCH, Baltimore                          .1

WMMS-HD2, Cleveland                  .1

WYTS, Columbus                          .1

“Holiday” 2021 6+ Fluctuation from December 2021

WINS, New York                            4.4   +.6

WCBS-AM, New York                     2.6   +.4

KNX-FM, Los Angeles                     2.8   +.2

KNWN, Seattle                              5.5   +.2

KYW, Philadelphia                         4.7   +.1

WINS, Middlesex                           1.1   +.1

WCBS-AM, Middlesex                     1.6   +.1

WNOH, Norfolk                             .4     +.1

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Francisco    6.7   Flat

WYTS, Columbus                          .1     Flat

WTOP & WTLP, Washington            6.4   -.4

WBZ-AM, Boston                          6.5   -.4

KRLD-AM, Dallas                          1.6   -.3

WCBS-AM, Long Island                  3.1   -.2

WDCH, Baltimore                          .1     -.2

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Jose           5.4   -.2

WBBM-AM & WCFS, Chicago          5.6   -.1

WWJ, Detroit                                5.0   -.1

WINS, Long Island                         2.7   -.1

WMMS-HD2, Cleveland                  .1     -.1

“Holiday” 2021 By Market Rank  

WBBM-AM & WCFS, Chicago          5.6   #3

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Francisco    6.7   #3

WBZ-AM, Boston                          6.5   #3

KNWN, Seattle                              5.5   #3

WTOP & WTLP, Washington            6.4   #4

WWJ, Detroit                                5.0   #4

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Jose           5.4   #4

WINS, New York                            4.4   #5

KYW, Philadelphia                         4.7   #6

WCBS-AM, Long Island                  3.1   #8

KNX-FM, Los Angeles                     2.8   #11

WCBS-AM, New York                     2.6   #13

WINS, Long Island                         2.7   #13

WCBS-AM, Middlesex                     1.6   #19

WMMS-HD2, Cleveland                  .1     #21

WYTS, Columbus                          .1     #20

WNOH, Norfolk                             .4     #22

WINS, Middlesex                           1.1   #23

KRLD-AM, Dallas                          1.6   #26

WDCH, Baltimore                          .1     #32

  • Mirroring what happened in “Holiday” 2022, half the all-news facilities placed in the top ten (“Holiday” 2021, 6+).

“Holiday” 2020 6+ Share (Highest to Lowest)

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Francisco    8.1

WTOP & WTLP, Washington            8.1

WBBM-AM & WCFS, Chicago          6.8

WBZ-AM, Boston                          6.5

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Jose           5.6

KYW, Philadelphia                         5.4

KOMO, Seattle                              4.6

WWJ, Detroit                                4.5

WINS, New York                            3.6

KNX, Los Angeles                          3.2

WCBS-AM, Long Island                  2.9

WCBS-AM, New York                     2.7

WINS, Long Island                         2.6

WCBS-AM, Middlesex                     2.4

WBZ-AM, Providence                       1.4

KRLD-AM, Dallas                           1.3

WINS, Middlesex                            1.2

WNOH, Norfolk                             1.2

WDCH, Baltimore                          0.8

WMMS-HD2, Cleveland                  0.1

“Holiday” 2020 6+ Fluctuation from December 2020

KYW, Philadelphia                         5.4   +.5

WBZ-AM, Providence                       1.4   +.4

WINS, New York                            3.6   +.3

WCBS-AM, Middlesex                     2.4   +.3

WNOH, Norfolk                             1.2   +.3

WCBS-AM, New York                     2.7   +.2

WINS, Middlesex                           1.2   +.2

WBBM-AM & WCFS, Chicago          6.8   Flat

KRLD-AM, Dallas                          1.3   Flat

WMMS-HD2, Cleveland                  0.1   Flat

WTOP & WTLP, Washington            8.1   -1.6

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Jose           5.6   -1.4

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Francisco    8.1   -1.0

KOMO, Seattle                              4.6   -.7

WCBS-AM, Long Island                  2.9   -.7

WWJ, Detroit                                4.5   -.6

WBZ-AM, Boston                          6.5   -.3

WINS, Long Island                         2.6   -.3

KNX, Los Angeles                          3.2   -.1

WDCH, Baltimore                          0.8   -.1

“Holiday” 2020 By Market Rank  

WBZ-AM, Boston                          6.5   #2

WBBM-AM & WCFS, Chicago          6.8   #3

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Francisco    8.1   #3

WTOP & WTLP, Washington            8.1   #3

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Jose           5.6   #4

KYW, Philadelphia                         5.4   #5

KOMO, Seattle                              4.6   #6

WWJ, Detroit                                4.5   #6

WINS, New York                            3.6   #7

KNX, Los Angeles                          3.2   #9

WCBS-AM, New York                     2.7   #12

WCBS-AM, Long Island                  2.9   #12

WNOH, Norfolk                             1.2   #12

WINS, Long Island                         2.6   #13

WBZ-AM, Providence                       1.4   #13

WCBS-AM, Middlesex                     2.4   #14

WMMS-HD2, Cleveland                  0.1   #17

WDCH, Baltimore                          0.8   #21

WINS, Middlesex                           1.2   #22

KRLD-AM, Dallas                          1.3   #24

All-News Composite Arranged By Market Rank    

                                                  “Hol” 2020     “Hol” 2021     “Hol” 2022     “Hol” 2023

WINS-FM, New York                      3.6   #7           4.4   #5           4.6   #5           3.9   #9

WCBS-AM, New York                     2.7   #12         2.6   #13         2.0   #17         1.6   #19

KNX-FM, Los Angeles                     3.2   #9           2.8   #11         2.5   #12         2.5   #12

WBBM-AM & WCFS, Chicago          6.8   #3           5.6   #3           4.8   #4           4.9   #4

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Francisco    8.1   #3           6.7   #3           6.7   #2           5.7   #3

KRLD-AM, Dallas                          1.3   #24         1.6   #26         2.2   #20         1.4   #27

WTOP & WTLP, Washington            8.1   #3           6.4   #4           7.8   #3           6.3   #4

KYW, Philadelphia                         5.4   #5           4.7   #6           6.2   #3           4.7   #6

WBZ-AM, Boston                          6.5   #2           6.5   #3           4.8   #6           4.7   #5

KNWN, Seattle                               4.6   #6           5.5   #3           5.5   #3           2.3   #20

WWJ, Detroit                                4.5   #6           5.0   #4           4.5   #7           4.3   #9

WINS-FM, Long Island                   2.6   #13         2.7   #13         3.0   #10         3.3   #9

WCBS-AM, Long Island                  2.9   #12         3.1   #8           3.8   #7           2.5   #12

WDCH, Baltimore                          .8     #21         .1     #32         .6     #20         .8     #22

WTOP & WTLP, Baltimore               DNA DNA        DNA DNA        DNA DNA        1.0   #20

WMMS-HD2, Cleveland                  .1     #17         .1     #21         DNA DNA        DNA DNA

WYTS, Columbus                          DNA DNA        .1     #20         .1     #22         DNA DNA

WRAL-HD3, Raleigh                       DNA DNA        DNA DNA        .2     #16         .2     #24

KCBS-AM & KFRC, San Jose           5.6   #4           5.4   #4           7.0   #2           4.5   #4

WINS-FM, Middlesex                      1.2   #22         1.1   #23         1.7   #14         1.8   #13

WCBS-AM, Middlesex                     2.4   #14         1.6   #19         1.2   #18         1.0   #18

WBZ-AM, Providence                       1.4   #13         DNA DNA        DNA DNA        DNA DNA

WNOH, Norfolk                             1.2   #12         .4     #22         .8     #20         .2     #24

Notes

  • WINS-AM, New York added FM simulcast WINS-FM on October 27, 2022
  • KNX-AM, Los Angeles added FM simulcast KNX-FM on December 21, 2021
  • KRLD-AM, Dallas and WBZ-AM, Boston are news – talk hybrids
  • KOMO, Seattle changed calls to KNWN on February 2, 2022
  • WDCH, Baltimore is business news
  • WMMS-HD2, Cleveland and WNOH, Norfolk are Black Information Network affiliates
  • “DNA” indicates a station “Did Not Appear” in that particular survey and/or wasn’t a Nielsen Audio subscriber in that sweep
  • All above data is based on news stations that appeared in the top twenty in at least one of the four “Holiday” survey periods noted (2020, 2021, 2022, 2023)

Contact managing editor Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry News

Triton Digital Releases U.S. Podcast Report 2023

Triton Digital released its second annual U.S. Podcast Report that “provides insights into the evolving U.S. podcast landscape over the course of 2023, including listening habits, audience demographic data, and insights into the top podcasts, networks, and debuts from the Triton U.S. Podcast Ranker.” The report indicates the number of monthly podcast listeners continues to rise with 12% growth over the past two years. In 2023, 40% of the U.S. population reported listening to a podcast within the past month.im Other notable findings: 1) Older Americans and women are listening to podcasts at a faster rate, with a 22% increase in listeners over the age of 55 and a 19% increase in female listeners 18+ over the past two years; 2) Top podcast genres of 2023 were News (22% of downloads), True Crime (18%), and Comedy (15%). Of True Crime podcast listeners, 67% were female, of Comedy podcast listeners 62% were male, and of News podcast listeners 58% were male; 3) The top sales networks of 2023 in the Triton U.S. Podcast Ranker were SiriusXM Podcast Network at #1, NPR at #2, and Wondery at #3. The top podcast of the year was “NPR News Now.” Triton Digital SVP measurement products & strategy Daryl Battaglia says, “2023 was another year of significant growth for the podcast industry, and with increasing female and over 55+ audiences, we can expect more content production to serve those groups in the coming year. As podcast listenership continues to rise and reach new audiences, we’ll continue to provide our customers with in-depth insights around podcast consumption and listener habits in the coming year.” Get the full report here.

Industry News

Cumulus Media’s Dallas-Fort Worth Stations Raised Record Sum for Local Charities

Cumulus Media announces that its Dallas-Fort Worth radio station group raised $2,696,127 for charities in the region during 2023, topping the 2022 total by more than $400,000. In the Dallas-Fort Worthim market, Cumulus operates news/talk WBAP-AM/FM, news/talk KLIF-AM/FM, sports talk KTCK-AM/FM and two country music brands. Cumulus regional vice president Dan Bennett says, “I can’t say enough about our air talent and programming team who understand that serving our community in Dallas-Fort Worth means raising awareness for organizations that give a lift to people who need it. They give so much of their time to make a difference and 2023’s efforts show the incredible results.”

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Baseball Station? Own It!

By Holland Cooke
Consultant 

imAs The Beatles sang, “It’s been a long, cold, lonely winter.” ‘Still is, eh?

Baseball – even Spring Training while it’s still chilly in March – says “Here Comes The Sun.” That’s what baseball means…to listeners. But with games also on SiriusXM and Tune-In and team apps, baseball isn’t the exclusive franchise AM/FM affiliates used to enjoy. So, BE KNOWN for having the games.

im

To local advertisers? In the words of one GM – who has made a pile of money selling baseball – “It’s ego and envy.” And while second and third-generation retailers might family-feud about other things, grandfather AND father AND son can agree on this expenditure lots quicker than you can get consensus about a ROS spot package on Kiss or Lite or Magic or Froggy.

Help yourself to your February Baseball To-Do List: http://getonthenet.com/BaseballFebruary.pdf

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

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Audacy files applications for entry of an order authorizing the retention and employment of four firms with the bankruptcy court. Those include Porter Hedges LLP as co-counsel for the debtors, FTI Consulting Inc as financial advisor to the debtors, PJT Partners LP as investment banker to the debtors, and Latham & Watkins LLP as bankruptcy co-counsel for the debtors and debtors in possession.

Benztown, P1 Media Group, and Global Radio Ideas Facebook Group are hosting a free webinar for radio professionals around the globe, titled, “How Radio Talent Can Survive and Thrive in 2024.” It features special guest Paul Anderson, CEO of Workhouse Media. The 40-minute webinar will be hosted by Benztown CEO Andreas Sannemann and P1 Media Group partner Ken Benson. Get more info and register here.

AUN Television Network president and CEO Rick Trader announces the launch of a 12-part special designed to educate Americans about the Constitution and its amendments. Titled, “Our Country, Our Freedoms, Our Constitution: Lessons for Freedom,” the programs debut on February 4 across the network and its 11 broadcast television stations.

New England Public Media unveils a new, weekly radio show and podcast called, “The Rundown with Carrie Saldo,” that premieres Friday (2/2) 9:00 am to 10:00 am following NPR’s “Morning Edition” on WFCR-FM, Amherst, Massachusetts “88.5 NEPM.” The station says, “Each week, listeners will hear a lively conversation with reporters from newsrooms around western Massachusetts, giving their take on the news and events that shaped the week, and providing analysis, context, insights, and varying perspectives.”

Industry News

PodcastOne Renews with Adam Carolla and Dr. Drew Pinsky

PodcastOne announces that it enters into a new agreement with podcast host and comic Adam Carolla to continue producing and representing his long-running “The Adam Carolla Podcast”  and “The Adam and Dr. Drew Show.” PodcastOne says, “Since 2009, ‘The Adam Carolla Podcast’ with its host Adam Carolla has entertained millions of listeners. Completely uncensored, Carolla welcomes a wide range of guests such as Jimmy Kimmel, Jay Leno, Nicolas Cage, and Matt Damon in the studio for in-depth interviews and a front row seat to his unparalleled ranting. With an unsurpassed library of episodesim available, ‘The Adam Carolla Podcast’ has remained one of the most popular podcasts on the planet for well over a decade. Fans grew to love the pairing of Adam Carolla & Dr. Drew Pinsky that originated on the world famous KROQ radio and became a cultural touchstone and in 2012 they reunited the partnership for ‘The Adam and Dr. Drew Show.’ In each episode Adam and Dr. Drew take uncensored, nothing-off-limits, calls about sex, drugs, medical and relationship issues. Dr. Drew brings the medicine while Adam’s comedic rants are the spoonful of sugar to make it go down.” PodcastOne president and co-founder Kit Gray adds, “Adam Carolla’s contributions to the medium of digital audio entertainment are immeasurable.  From his devoted audience of listeners and advertisers, Adam has inspired legions of loyal fans who tune in daily to hear his comedic take on a wide array of topics. His camaraderie with Dr. Drew is the stuff of legends. This is a podcasting duo that will go down in history as one of the greatest partnerships. As we have grown as a network, so have Adam and Drew and we are thrilled to keep the momentum growing.”

Ratings Takeaways

Holiday 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Three

imHoliday 2023 PPM Data – Information for the Holiday 2023 ratings period (December 7, 2023 – January 3, 2024) has been released for Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus.

The only requirement for a spoken-word station to be included here is that they be a Nielsen Audio subscriber – there are no share or rank thresholds.

NFL; NBA; and NHL team names of corresponding spoken-word flagship(s) are bolded.

DNA – DNA = Did Not Appear – Does Not Appear

Comparisons are December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 (6+).

PORTLAND

News/Talk

KXL 5.9 – 4.9, #3 – #6

KEX 1.2 – 1.1, #22 – #21

KUFO .6 – .5, #26 – #25

KPAM .1 – .1, #33 – #34

News

None

Sports Talk

KFXX 2.0 – 1.7, #20 – #20

KXTG 1.2 – 1.1, #22 – #21

KPOJ .7 – .7, #24 – #24 (Trailblazers)

KFXX Stream  .1 – .1, #33 – #34

KMTT .1 – .2, #33 – #31

Public Radio News/Talk

KOPB 6.1 – 5.5, #2 – #3

KOPB Stream  1.4 – 1.4, #21 – #21 

Note: News/talk KXL’s -1.0 (5.9 – 4.9) represents Portland’s largest (6+) December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 decrease.

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk

WBT-AM 4.2– 4.0, #11 – #9

News

WRFX-HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WFNZ-FM 2.7 – 2.5, #13 – #15 (Hornets)

WSOC-HD3 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WFAE 5.0 – 3.5, #8 – #11

WNSC 1.3 – 1.4, #18 – #18

WFAE-HD3 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA  

Notes: Public radio news/talk WFAE’s -1.5 (5.0 – 3.5) represents Charlotte’s largest (6+) December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 decrease.

The Carolina Panthers’ flagship is classic rock WRFX.

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk

WOAI 2.7– 2.4, #14 – #15 (Spurs)

KTSA 2.0 – 1.8, #19 – #19

News

None

Sports Talk

KTFM 1.3 – 1.1, #22 – #23

KTKR .8 – .7, #27 – #25

KZDC .3 – .2, #30 – #32

Public Radio News/Talk

KSTX 2.3 – 2.3, #17 – #17 

SACRAMENTO

 News/Talk

KFBK-AM 6.6 – 6.1 #3 – #3

KSTE-AM 3.1 – 2.1, #12 – #16

News

None

Sports Talk

KHTK 1.7 – 1.6, #18 – #19 (Kings)

KIFM .9 – .9, #22 – #21

KIFM Stream  .1 – DNA, #29 – DNA 

Public Radio News/Talk

KXJZ 2.3 – 2.4, #15 – #15

KQED .1 – .3, #29 – #28

KQEI .3 – .1, #28 – #30

KUOP DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk

KDKA-AM 3.8 – 3.6, #9 – #8

KDKA-AM Stream  .3 – .4, #24 – #22

News

None

Sports Talk

KDKA-FM 7.2 – 7.2, #5 – #4

KDKA-FM Stream  .2 – .1, #25 – #27

WBGG .1 – DNA, #27 – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WESA 4.2 – 3.9, #7 – #7

Flagships of the Steelers and Penguins are rock WDVE and alternative WXDX, respectively.

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk

KSL-AM 5.4 – 3.6, #3 – #9

KNRS-FM 2.8 – 2.2, #14 – #17

KKAT .1 – DNA, #30 – DNA

News

None

Sports Talk

KALL 1.9 – 1.1, #20 – #22

KZNS-FM .5 – .6, #26 – #25 (Utah Jazz)

KZNS-AM .7 – .2, #24 – #27 (Utah Jazz)

KZNS-AM Stream  .1 – .1, #30 – #30 (Utah Jazz)

KZNS-FM Stream  DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Utah Jazz)

KOVO DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

KUER 2.4 – 2.2, #18 – #17

KBYU-HD2 Stream  .2 – .2, #28 – #27

KUMT .1 – .1, #30 – #30    

Notes: Adult contemporary KSFI’s +6.3 (13.9 – 20.2) is the largest (6+) December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 increase in these 12 PPM-markets. Moreover, KSFI is the first station to reach a 20-share (6+) in the first three rounds of “Holiday” 2023 PPM results.

Conversely, news/talk KSL’s -1.8 (5.4 – 3.6) represents Salt Lake City’s largest (6+) December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 decrease. 

LAS VEGAS

News/Talk

KMXB-HD3 .3 – .6, #29 – #28

KXNT .2 – .3, #31 – #31

KMZQ DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

None

Sports Talk

KWWN .8 – .8, #26 – #27

KKGK .4 – .3, #28 – #31 (Golden Knights)

KRLV .2 – .2, #31 – #33 (Raiders)

KENO .2 – .2, #31 – #36

Public Radio News/Talk

KNPR 1.6 – 1.5, #21 – #21

ORLANDO

News/Talk

WDBO 3.2 – 3.1, #13 – #12

WTKS 3.6 – 3.1, #10 – #12

WFLF .7 – .6, #20 – #20

WFYY-HD3 .1 – DNA, #27 – DNA

News

None

Sports Talk

WYGM .9 – .9, #18 – #19 (Magic)

WOCL-HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WMFE 2.8 – 2.7, #14 – #14

CINCINNATI

News/Talk

WLW 11.2 – 10.8, after 23 consecutive months at #1, slips to #2 (Bengals)

WKRC 4.9 – 4.5, #6 – #6

News

None

Sports Talk

WCKY 1.3 – 1.2, #19 – #18 (Bengals)

WSAI .5 – .5, #21 – #21

Public Radio News/Talk

WVXU 3.8 – 3.2, #9 – #10

CLEVELAND

News/Talk

WTAM 4.8 – 4.8, #10 – #8 (Cavaliers)

News

WMMS-HD2 .1 – DNA, #24 – DNA

Sports Talk

WKRK 5.8 – 6.5, #7 – #6  (Browns)

WKRK Stream .7 – .8, #21 – #20 (Browns)

WARF .2 – .1, #23 – #23

Public Radio News/Talk

WKSU 5.2 – 4.1, #9 – #10

WKSU-HD4 .1 – DNA, #24 – DNA

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk

KMBZ-FM 5.3 – 4.1, #5 – #7

KCMO-AM 1.9 – 1.8, #17 – #17

KMBZ-AM 1.6 – 1.4, #18 – #19

KMBZ-FM Stream .7 – .5, #21 – #23

KCMO-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

KMBZ-FM HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

None

Sports Talk

KCSP 2.6 – 2.1, #15 – #15

KCSP Stream  .2 – .2, #25 – #28

KWOD .1 – DNA, #29 – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

KCUR 2.8 – 2.4, #13 – #13

KANU-HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Note: Country WDAF is the flagship of the Chiefs.

COLUMBUS

News/Talk

WTVN 6.0 – 4.5, #4 – #7    

News

WYTS DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WBNS-FM 9.8 – 6.9, #2 – #4 (Blue Jackets)

WBNS-AM .3 – .3, #21 #21 (Blue Jackets)

WBNS-FM HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

WMNI DNA – .1, DNA – #23

Public Radio News/Talk

WOSU 4.0 – 3.6, #9 – #9

Note: Sports talk WBNS-FM’s -2.9 (9.8 – 6.9) is the largest (6+) December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 decrease by any station in the first three rounds of “Holiday” 2023 PPM results.

Up next: “Holiday” 2023 overviews for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.

Mike Kinosian can be reached at: Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry Views

SABO SEZ: Howard Stern Deserves a Big Thank You

By Walter Sabo
Consultant, Sabo Media Implementers
A.K.A. Walter Sterling
Radio Host, “Sterling On Sunday”
Talk Media Network

imNO ONE has done more to elevate the status and improve the working conditions of on-air talent as much as Howard Stern.

Howard turned 70 this month and he has been on the air for 50 years – half of the time of the existence of radio. During his brilliant career, he has elevated the capabilities of radio to a scientific, pristine art. His success is neither an accident nor luck. It’s not even God-given talent. It’s all work. Nobody has ever worked harder on their radio show than Howard and, as a result, no radio star has ever earned as much money or deserved as much acclaim.

Several important notes:

— For Howard, radio always comes first. When he made the movie Private Parts the production fit around his radio show.

— “America’s Got Talent” ended taping at the pre-agreed times to accommodate Howard’s radio show.

— I made the first call to his agent to recruit Howard to SiriusXM Satellite Radio. He was already making a lot of money… his motivation for moving was to give his radio show the support and freedom necessary to see just how great he could make it.

— He loves radio.

Whatever you’ve heard Howard earns, it’s probably close. That’s good for everybody on the air in the world. He earns more than any TV star. He earns more than 99.9% of all movie stars. I think it’s pretty much Taylor SwiftPaul McCartney and Howard. A radio star is actually in that conversation!

When he started in the 1980s, he was suspended for saying douche bag. Now you can say douche bag. Thank him for winning that fight.

Thank him for proving that radio stars do better with real writers and producers. Radio stars can create four hours a day of magic with little help. (TV Sitcoms produce 22 minutes a week, for 22 weeks a year with 11 writers.) Thank him for moving millions of dollars of products a week with his live reads, enhancing the value of your live reads.

Thank him for being harassed by the federal government. Thank him for not blinking. Thank him for raising the profile and stature of American radio. Thank him for being funny.

I just don’t think he’s been thanked enough…

Walter Sabo was a founding architect of SiriusXM Satellite Radio and began the recruitment of Howard Stern. He has consulted RKO General, PARADE magazine, Hearst BroadcastingPress Broadcasting, and other premium brands. He launched the first company to engage online video influencers, Hitviews. As an executive, he was EVP of NBC FM RADIO giving Dr. Ruth Westheimer her first media job and fostering the creation of adult contemporary. As VP ABC Radio Networks, Sabo hired Ringo Starr to be a DJ for a 24-hour special.

Industry News

Salem and Dennis Prager Agree to Contract Extension

Salem Media Group and Salem Radio Network nationally syndicated talk host Dennis Prager agree to terms on a contract extension. As part of the new deal, and at Prager’s request, the midday show – currently airing from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET – will air live from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm, effective February 5. Salem says Prager requested the shortened show time “in order to complete hisim monumental five-volume Bible commentary, The Rational Bible, as well as three other books.” Salem adds that each hour of Prager’s show will contain six more minutes of talk than at present and that third-hour affiliates are being offered the opportunity to take an hour of the Charlie Kirk show, which airs at the same time as Prager’s program. Additionally, Prager will do a monthly virtual “hangout” with subscribers to his Pragertopia +. Salem SVP of spoken word Phil Boyce comments, “Dennis Prager is a true talk radio icon and has been for the last 42 years since he first began on the radio at KABC in Los Angeles hosting the original ‘Religion on the Line.’ Millions of listeners spend the day with Dennis, enjoying his wit, wisdom, and knowledge. He is one of the most viral talk hosts on the air today, and we wanted him to remain on the Salem Radio Network for years to come.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories

The presidential race and Donald Trump’s victory in New Hampshire’s primary; the efforts in congress to pass border security legislation and provide aid to Ukraine; Trump’s legal battles; the Israel-Hamas war and Benjamin Netanyahu’s criticism of Qatar’s mediation efforts; the U.S. military’s battles against Houthi rebels; the FAA begins an inspection process to get Boeing’s 737 Max 9 back in the air; the Russia-Ukraine war and the downing of a military plane carrying 74 people; and the Arizona GOP’s Kari LakeJeff DeWit controversy were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

WXNT-AM Brings Dan Dakich Back to Indy Airwaves

Cumulus Media is bringing Indianapolis sports media personality Dan Dakich back to the radio in the market as host of “The Dan Dakich Show” on WXNT-AM “Indy’s Sports Ticket 1430 AM,” effective Monday (1/29). Dakich, who played basketball at Indiana University under Bobby Knight and coached basketball there (as well as at Bowling Green State University), was most recently on air at Urbanim One’s WFNI, Indianapolis “The Fan.” After leaving “The Fan,” Dakich began hosting a late morning program streamed on the Outkick Network. Cumulus Indianapolis VP and market manager Darlene Park says, “Indiana’s very own Dan Dakich returns to the airwaves as opinionated as ever and ready to break down all things sports on ‘Indy’s Sports Ticket 1430 AM’ every weekday from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm. He is an Indiana sports legend, and we are so excited he is bringing his game to our team.” Dakich comments, “Couldn’t be more thrilled to join the fantastic team at ‘Indy’s Sports Ticket 1430 AM.’ The state of Indiana and I have had a lifetime love affair that extends way beyond sports and sharing that daily is going to, once again, be a blast! Can’t wait to get started as we build ‘Indy’s Sports Ticket 1430 AM’ into Indy’s go-to home for all things sports.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories

The presidential race and Donald Trump’s victory in the New Hampshire primary; Trump’s legal battles and the Fani Willis controversy; U.S. migrant crisis and the SCOTUS razor wire ruling; the Israel-Hamas war and Benjamin Netanyahu’s opposition to a Palestinian state; more troubles crop up for Boeing; financial troubles at the Los Angeles Times; the Doomsday Clock; AI and social media; the Oscar nominations and the snub of Barbie director Greta Gerwig and lead actor Margot Robbie were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

Holiday 2023 PPM Ratings – Part One

imHoliday 2023 PPM Data – Information for the Holiday 2023 ratings period (December 7, 2023 – January 3, 2024) has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey).

The only requirement for a spoken-word station to be included here is that they be a Nielsen Audio subscriber – there are no share or rank thresholds.

NFL; NBA; and NHL team names of corresponding spoken-word flagship(s) are bolded.

DNA – DNA = Did Not Appear – Does Not Appear

Comparisons are December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk

WABC 2.8 – 3.0, #11 – #11

WOR 1.1 – 1.2, #22 – #21

WKXW .9 – .8, #24 – #27

WKXW Stream .2 – .2, #38 – #37

News

WINS-FM 4.1 – 3.9, #10 – #9

WCBS-AM 1.7 – 1.6, #19 – #19

WINS-FM Stream .3 – .4, #36 – #32

Business News WBBR .4 – .3, #32 – #34

WCBS-AM Stream .2 – .1, #38 – #46 

Sports Talk

WFAN FM & AM 2.5 – 2.3, #12 -#12 (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM 1.3 – 1.2 #21 – #21 (Jets, Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)

WFAN FM & AM Stream .9 – .7, #24 -#28 (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils) 

Public Radio News/Talk

WNYC-FM 4.3 – 4.1, #8 – #7

WNYC-AM 1.0 – 1.0, #23 – #23 

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk

KFI 5.1 – 4.6, #2 – #4

KRLA .6 – .4, #34 – #30

KEIB .5 – .4, #35 – #30  (Clippers 

News

KNX-FM 2.7 – 2.5, #11 – #12

KNX-FM Stream .1 – .1, #41 – #40  

Sports Talk

KLAC 1.0 – . #29 – #28 (Chargers, Clippers 

Public Radio News/Talk

KPCC 2.6 – 2.0, #12 – #14

Notes: Public radio news/talk KPCC’s -.6 (2.6 – 2.0) represents a tie for Los Angeles’ highest (6+)December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 decrease.

Flagship of the Rams and Lakers is sports talk KSPN, which is unlisted in this sweep.

Kings’ games are heard on the iHeartRadio app, while games of the Anaheim Ducks are heard on the Ducks stream.

CHICAGO

News/Talk

WGN 2.8 – 2.6, #10 – #11  (Blackhawks)

WLS-AM 1.7 – 1.7, #18 – #19

WLIP .4 – .3, #36 – #38

WVON .1 – .1, #43 – #43

WLS-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

WBBM-AM & WCFS 5.2 – 4.9, #4  – #4

WBBM-AM & WCFS Stream .2 – .1, #41 – #43

Sports Talk

WSCR 2.4 – 2.5, #13 – #12 (Bulls)

WMVP 1.4 – 1.5, #20 – #20 (Bears)

WSCR Stream .9 – .4, #27 – #36 (Bulls)

Public Radio News/Talk

WBEZ 2.6 – 2.1, #12 – #15  

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk

KSFO 1.4 – 1.4, #22 – #22

KSFO Stream .2 – .2, #31 – #32 

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 6.4 – 5.7, #3 – #3

KNEW .2 – .3, #31 – #29  

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream .1 – .1, #37 – #38

KKSF DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

Sports Talk

KNBR 3.5 – 3.6, #10 – #7 (49ers)

KGMZ 2.3 – 2.0, #14 – #14 (Golden State Warriors)

KTCT .5 – .4, #27 – #27  

KGO .2 – .2, #31 – #32  

KGO Stream .2 – .2, #31 – #32  

KGMZ Stream DNA – .2, DNA – #32 (Golden State Warriors)   

Public Radio News/Talk

KQED 6.6 – 6.9, #2 – #2

KALW .2 – .2, #31 – #32

DALLAS

News/Talk

WBAP 3.4 – 2.8, #11 – #14

KEGL 1.5 – 1.4, #26 – #27  (Mavericks)

KSKY .5 – .6, #33 – #33

KLIF-AM .3 – .4, #36 – #34

KSKY Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

News

News – Talk KRLD-AM 1.8 – 1.4, #20 – #27 (Cowboys)

News – Talk KRLD-AM Stream .1 – DNA, #40 – DNA (Cowboys)

Sports Talk

KTCK 5.2 – 4.2, #2 – #3  (Stars)

KRLD-FM 3.4 – 2.9, #11 – #13 (Cowboys)

KRLD-FM Stream .2 – .3, #37 – #35 (Cowboys)

Public Radio News/Talk

KERA 4.2 – 3.5, #4 – #6  

Note: Sports talk KTCK’s -1.0 (5.2 – 4.2) represents Dallas’ highest (6+) December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 decrease.

HOUSTON

News/Talk

KTRH 3.5 – 2.6, #10 – #17  (Rockets)

KPRC . 5 – .5, #26 – #28  

News

None

Sports Talk

KILT-AM 1.5 – 1.5, #21 – #21 (Texans)

KBME .5 – .6, #26 – #27  (Rockets)

KILT-AM Stream .3 – .3, #29 – #30 (Texans)

KFNC .1 – .2, #33 – #31

Public Radio News/Talk

KUHF 2.3 – 2.4, #20 – #18

ATLANTA

News/Talk

WSB-AM & WSBB 8.3 – 7.4, #1 – #2

WFOM .4 – .4, #29 – #27

WGKA .2 – .1, #31 – #31

WAOK .2 – .1, #31 – #31

WAOK Stream .1 – .1, #33 – #31

WSRV-HD3 Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

WBIN  DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WZGC 2.8 – 3.5, #15 – #9 (Falcons, Hawks)

WCNN 1.5 – 1.4, #20 – #20

WZGC Stream .5 – .3, #27 – #29 (Falcons, Hawks)

Public Radio News/Talk

WABE 3.9 – 3.3, #8 – #11

WRAS  .6 – .8, #25 – #24

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk

WPHT 1.7 – 1.7, #19 – #19

WKXW .9 – 1.2, #24 – #23

WPHT Stream .6 – .7, #27 – #26

WURD .5 – .3, #28 – #27

WURD Stream .7 – .2, #26 – #29

WDEL-AM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

WKXW Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

News

KYW & WPHI 5.2 – 4.7, #7 – #6

KYW & WPHI Stream .1 – .1, #31 – #30

WTEL .1 – DNA, #31 – DNA

Sports Talk

WIP 6.6 – 5.7, #4 – #4 (Eagles)

WIP Stream 1.3 – 1.5, #22 – #20 (Eagles)

WPEN-FM 1.2 – 1.3, #23 – #22 (76ers, Flyers)

Public Radio News/Talk

WHYY 2.8 – 2.8, #11 – #9      

Notes: Adult contemporary WBEB makes the largest (6+) December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 increase(+7.3) of any station in these 12 PPM-markets and logs the highest (6+) share (16.8).

Conversely, country WXTU has the most significant (6+) December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 decline of any station in these 12 PPM-markets (5.3 – 3.7, -1.6). 

NASSAU-SUFFOLK (LONG ISLAND)

News/Talk

WABC 1.3 – 1.1, #20 – #20

WOR 1.0 – 1.0, #22 – #22

WLIR .2 – .1, #33 – #35

News

WINS-FM 4.4 – 3.3, #8 – #9

WCBS-AM 2.1 – 2.5, #16 – #12

WINS-FM Stream .7 – .9, #25 – #23

Business News WBBR .3 – .2, #30 – #30

WCBS-AM Stream .1 – .1, #36 – #35

Sports Talk

WFAN-FM & AM 3.7 – 3.5, #10 – #7 (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM 2.5 – 2.7, #12 – #11 (Jets, Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)

WFAN-FM & AM Stream 1.1 – DNA, #21 – DNA (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

Public Radio News/Talk

WSUF .2 – .2, #33 – #30

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk

None

News

KFOO .1 – DNA, #23 – DNA

Sports Talk

KPWK .2 – .2, #21 – #18

Public Radio News/Talk

KVCR .3 – .3 #20 – #16

KPCC DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

SAN JOSE

News/Talk

KSFO 1.3 – 1.5, #22 – #19

KSFO Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA  

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 5.7 – 4.5, #3 – #4

KNEW .2 – .3, #28 – #28  

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream .2 – .2, #28 – #30

Sports Talk

KNBR 4.1 – 3.9, #6 – #6 (49ers)

KGMZ 1.6 – 1.5, #20 – #19 (Golden State Warriors)

KTCT .6 – .8, #26 – #25   

KGO Stream .6 – .7, #26 – #26  

KGO .2 – .3, #28 – #28  

KGMZ Stream DNA – .2, DNA – #30 (Golden State Warriors)

Public Radio News/Talk

None

Notes: News KCBS-AM & KFRC’s -1.2 (5.7 – 4.5) represents San Jose’s highest (6+) December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 decrease. 

Sharks’ games are carried on the Sharks Audio Network.

MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION 

News/Talk

WKXW 5.2 – 5.7, #4 – #4

WOR 1.1 – 1.6, #20 – #15

WKXW Stream .7 – .7, #22 – #20         

News

WINS-FM 2.0 – 1.8, #11 – #13

WCBS-AM 1.3 – 1.0, #17 – #18

WINS-FM Stream .3 – .3, #26 – #23

WCBS-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WEPN-FM 1.3 – 1.0, #17 – #18 (Jets, Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)

WFAN-FM & AM 2.7 – DNA, #9 – DNA (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WFAN FM & AM Stream .9 – DNA, #21 – DNA (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

Public Radio News/Talk

None

Up next: “Holiday” 2023 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Features

Remembering Charles Osgood

By Mike Kinosian
TALKERS magazine
Managing Editor

imDespite his seemingly nonchalant, bad boy on-air persona, David Letterman is exceptionally respectful of broadcasting and its history.

An easily discernable gleam could be seen in the late-night talk host’s eyes when – in 1993 – he formally announced he was jumping to CBS-TV.

One would be naïve not to think that the astonishingly lucrative payday played a significant part in his exhilaration, but Letterman was genuinely enthusiastic about joining the “Tiffany Network.” The entertainment division helped sculpt that vaulted reputation, but the Eye Network’s image was also greatly enhanced by its stellar news department.

Names of those who’ve graced CBS news broadcasts read like a veritable “Who’s Who” of the industry, with the incomparable Walter Cronkite at the very top.

Additionally, there’s Murrow. Sevareid. Collingwood. Rather. Reasoner. Wallace. Edwards. Kuralt. Safer. Mudd. Bradley. Schieffer. Stahl. Rooney. Burdett. Pauley. Hottelet. Chung. Threlkeld. O’Donnell. That just scratches the surface.

Perhaps no one on that – or any similar – list is more erudite, witty and thought provoking than Charles Osgood (Wood).

In a special April 18, 2005 NAB presentation in Las Vegas, the man who did as much for boosting bowtie sales (far pre-dating Tucker Carlson) received the Paul White Award from the RTNDA.

Established in 1956, the recognition carries on the name of CBS’ first news director.

Illustrious company

Past Paul White Award recipients have included Edward R. Murrow, Dan Rather, Bob Schieffer, Ed Bradley, Tom Brokaw, Ted Koppel, Peter Jennings, and Jane Pauley, who succeeded Osgood on CBS-TV’s “Sunday Morning” in 2016. Osgood humbly noted, “I’ve known about the Paul White Award for a long time and have been there to see others get it. It’s obviously a very distinguished company I join. I was there when [former CBS News Division President] Richard Salant [received] it and certainly regard it with a lot of respect. If you hang around long enough, it finally gets to be your turn.”

There’s a parallel with this recognition and Osgood’s 1990 induction to the NAB Hall of Fame. “[Neither] one is the kind of thing you campaign for,” he remarked. “The first I heard about it is when they called and told me it happened. There’s no tension about it and no disappointment that you didn’t get it.”    

Mistaken identity

Rich, God-given voice with which Osgood was blessed became evident at an early age. “My dad was a textile salesman and executive. His name was Charles Osgood Wood – I’m actually Charles Osgood Wood, the third. I’d answer the phone and the person on the other end would [automatically assume they were talking to my father]. He and I talked almost exactly alike.” 

Somewhat of a built-in schizophrenia existed in the famed broadcaster. A friend with whom he’d frequently play tennis noticed that when the multiple Peabody and Emmy Award winner screwed up he’d say, “Come on Osgood.” As a result, “I’d be harder on ‘Osgood’ than I would be on ‘Wood.’ You don’t talk to yourself when you do something right – you just sort of smile.”

Distinctive difference

Understandably, the natural tendency was to automatically link the instantly likable Osgood to CBS for his impeccable long-running role as voice/writer of CBS Radio’s “The Osgood File” and for hosting duties of CBS-TV’s “Sunday Morning.” In addition, he spent six years (1981-1987) as anchor of “The CBS Sunday Night News.”

Many, however, forget that predating those résumé credits, he toiled for ABC.

When he began there, ABC – as luck would have it – already had an announcer named Charles Woods. “In those days, some staff announcers did newscasts,” Osgood explained. “They hired me, but said they didn’t want to have a Charles Woods and a Charles Wood. When they told me to pick a name, I used my middle name as my last name. It’s worked out well and is a little more distinctive and professional.”

Safe haven

Selection of another type made a great impact on his life, as the broadcaster with the industry’s most stylish writing style was an Economics major at New York’s Fordham University. “I never really had an idea that this is what I was cut out to do,” Osgood candidly stated. “As a result, I never took any writing or editing courses. When I started [in broadcasting], I really hung on by my fingernails and just did it the best way I could think of. It took more than a couple of years to get a sense of what I could do. If I’d started the kinds of things in journalism school that I do now, they would have said, ‘No – that’s not how you do it.’ I would have had it drummed out of me early on.” 

Thankfully though, someone realized a broadcaster existed within Osgood and the New York native became actively involved at Fordham’s campus radio station. “That was my locker – the place I’d go between classes,” he pointed out. “At least in those days, regardless of your [declared major], you really majored in Philosophy. You learned things like ethics, logic and cosmology. That really turned out to be pretty useful for what I’m doing.”

Never was there a moment’s regret for the father of five that he didn’t pursue a career in economics. “I’m not even sure I understood what economics was when I decided to make it my major,” Osgood sheepishly admitted. “I knew it had something to do with money and I thought it would be good to know something about that.” 

Sailing with Uncle Walter

As things eventuated, it was immaterial that Osgood never took any college journalism courses. “I went to the best school of broadcast journalism that you could go to, [because] I got to work with Walter Cronkite and a pretty potent lineup of [other] people,” Osgood asserted. “I was often in the same room and could see how Walter’s mind worked and his idea of telling a story. He’s the most centered guy you’re ever going to meet and is very tough.”

Fabled anchorman Cronkite was also managing editor of “The CBS Evening News,” a responsibility he took very seriously. “He was a newsman and kept asking questions of everybody; I have all the respect in the world for him,” Osgood reverently recalled of Cronkite, who was 92 when he died in 2009. “Within a year after I went to work in the CBS newsroom, I found myself sailing in a boat with Walter Cronkite. I felt like I died and went to heaven.” 

Mid-1950s on-air job at Washington, DC classical outlet WGMS enabled Osgood to display his familiarity with – and dexterity to handle –  names like Nikolay Rimsky-Korsakoff. “I really did like that kind of music,” the long time ASCAP member emphasized. “They [eventually] gave me a job that was like the assistant to the GM. It paid all of about $25 a week, but I learned a little bit about station management. WGMS was sold to RKO General and I ended up being program director and, for a time, co-manager.”

Ahead of its time

Also dotting Osgood’s notable vitae is a 1963 stint as general manager of Hartford’s WHCT, the country’s first pay television station. “It was an over-the-air station that CBS owned at one time. It had a mechanism that would encode both picture and sound.”

Subscribers paid $125 for a decoder that needed to be attached to their television set; however, Osgood readily conceded it wasn’t exactly the ideal system. “Color was starting to come on strong, but this only worked in black and white, [so] we had a few strikes against us going in. We were, however, able to play ‘subsequent first-run’ movies – [films] that hadn’t yet been seen in local theaters.”

A tape inside the decoder recorded what a subscriber watched and customers were sent a bill once a month. “The system as an experiment failed, but it was not a bad idea,” Osgood maintained. “Now, of course, we have pay-per-view television, which is essentially the same thing.” 

Shared versus singular responsibilities

Each Osgood-fronted “Sunday Morning” broadcast concluded with the affable host reminding viewers that he would, “See you on the radio,” which was his way of reinforcing that radio is a visual medium. “You create pictures in your own mind and those are much richer than the ones that can be shown on television,” Osgood contended. “On television, what you see is what you get and [that medium] is very pre-occupied with the picture. There’s often wonderful writing there, but television people don’t tend to think about that or the sound at all.”

Images are their main focus and having had vast experience in each medium, Osgood opined that radio is a much more individual effort. “You decide what you’re going to do; you write it; and you do it. You can take all the credit or blame for whatever you do on radio. Television is a collaborative process. There are producers, writers and photographers. One person really can’t take any bows.”

Demanding schedule

One hour separated each of his four daily “Osgood File” features. The general rule was that Osgood didn’t start writing the next one until he finished delivering the last. “If it takes more than an hour, I’m in a lot of trouble,” he deadpanned. “I have to write it in somewhat less than an hour.”

Preparation for that Monday through Friday workday ritual began at the petrifying time of 2:30 am. “It somehow always feels like a horrible mistake when the alarm goes off then,” Osgood declared in his perfectly inflected trademark delivery. “I’m usually in the office at 4:30 am. I have to get my ducks in a row before [doing the first piece] so I know what I’m going to do the rest of the morning. You spend part of that time reading to see what’s there in the way of tape and to see what news stories are of interest that morning.” 

Newspapers, wire sources and the internet provided plenty of possibilities, so Osgood didn’t start worrying about what he was going to put on paper until he arrived at the office. “The news is a constantly refreshing source of material,” he commented. “If you’re doing something that has to last for a long time, you have a different problem. It’s just a question of what you can get your teeth into.”

Road to Sunday Morning

Four-year tour of duty (1967 – 1971) as morning anchor/reporter at New York City’s all-news WCBS-AM got Osgood accustomed to getting up early; he had the luxury of sleeping in until 4:30 am each Sunday. “You have no idea how much later 4:30 am is than 2:30 am,” he convincingly put forth. “I don’t have to get up early on Saturdays. There are [‘Osgood File’] shows, but they’re repeats of things that were done during the week. It’s a great delight to wake up on a Saturday and then realize I can go back to sleep, but it’s still never that late. I get up by 7:00 am.”

Energetic Osgood actually preferred a slow news day when it came to doing his 90-minute Sunday television broadcast. “I’m certain I’m the only network TV anchor who hopes there’s no news. We’ve worked on the show all week and want to do the broadcast that was planned. Some of our shows have themes or, at least, have connections between the pieces. If there’s a big story, you might have to throw something out and that may – or may not – hold up the following week.”                                                    

Succeeding Charles Kuralt as host of “Sunday Morning” nearly 30 years ago (4/10/1994) was a tough act for Osgood to follow, especially since he viewed “On The Road” legend Kuralt as a great personal hero. “He was one of the best who ever came along,” Osgood succinctly stressed. “Charles was a country boy with that wonderful North Carolina accent and had a way of using the language. I thought he was simply terrific. He taught me a lot, [including] not to imitate or copy what you hear. He was in control of every sentence he put down and had an idea of how he wanted to come across to the audience; he was really brilliant.”

Admiration for his predecessor

No advance notice was given to Osgood that his colleague – who would die of complications from lupus in 1997 at just 62 – was planning to leave the Sunday morning show. “I remember getting up one day at the usual hour and putting on my socks in a dark room,” Osgood recollected. “I had the radio on and heard Charlie had announced his retirement. That was terrible news and it never even occurred to me that CBS might ask me to replace him. For one thing, I was older than Charles [by approximately 20 months]. You don’t replace a person who retires with someone older, but that’s what happened. The real reason I got the job was they needed someone whose first name is Charles.”       

Sunday’s audience was conditioned to expect a high-level broadcast, and Osgood acknowledged that made the transition much easier. “As long as I didn’t try to be Charles and try to do an imitation of him, I thought I’d be okay [provided] the audience would put up with me long enough to get used to me.”

Certain things about the CBS-TV show were the same every week. “When we change something, the audience usually doesn’t like it at first,” Osgood contended. “It was especially daunting for me at the beginning because [Kuralt] was so terrific.” 

All tied up

Play a visual word association game about Osgood and “bowtie” will invariably be the first response, but he viewed that fashion statement as a relatively new choice. “I’ve only been doing it for 20 years,” he quipped tongue-in-cheek.

It all began when he wore a clip-on bowtie to work one day. CBS-TV “Evening News” writer John Mosedale admonished Osgood to never wear a clip-on. “He actually walked me into the men’s room and taught me how to tie a bowtie. When you teach an old dog a new trick, he wants to keep doing it. I wear a bowtie when I do speaking dates or television. The excuse I use for my attire is that I get dressed in the dark.”

Write stuff

This author of six books (the last one, 2004’s “Defending Baltimore Against Enemy Attack”) also formerly wrote a “USA Weekend” column and a King Features’ syndicated column. Moreover, he had a full plate with four daily CBS Radio shows (via Westwood One) and a weekly morning television show. “I always have a book that I’m either thinking about or actually in the process of writing,” CBS’ “Poet In Residence’ disclosed. “I’ve been talking with publishers about several book ideas, but they’re not far enough along to really [discuss] at this point. The [leisure time] thing I do more than anything else is fooling around at the piano; I like doing that.”

Unexpected situations like receiving the Paul White Award; being inducted into the NAB Hall Of Fame; and replacing Charles Kuralt as host of CBS Sunday Morning seemed to be the norm for the 1999 International Radio & Television Society Foundation award winner for Significant Achievement.

Long-range plans

With that as a backdrop, it was noteworthy that Osgood never considered himself to be a permanent replacement for Dan Rather on the “CBS Evening News” – a job that would eventually go to Katie Couric in 2006. “I’m not a candidate for anything,” Osgood vehemently insisted to me in our conversation, “[although] I do think it’s important that the ‘CBS Evening News’ be our flagship show. When they asked Bob Schieffer what he thought about doing ‘The Evening News,’ he said it was something to keep him busy until he was old enough to be on ‘60 Minutes.’”   

More than satisfied to have carried on with his radio and television assignments, Osgood – who had a summer residence in France – didn’t look forward to retirement. “I like vacations, but I like them because they are vacations. It’s nice to get away from work, but that’s only if you’re working. I hope they realize I intend to continue to do this for a long time. If it stops being fun, that’s when it’s time to hang it up.”

Mike Kinosian can be emailed at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry News

2024 Radio Mercury Awards Call for Entry Open

The Call for Entry for the 2024 Radio Mercury Awards is open. Entrants will have the chance to be awarded in 19 categories along with the Best of Show award. The awards are a project of the nonprofit Radio Creative Fund and are produced by the RAB. For 2024, new and revised categories have beenim introduced to expand the opportunity to win, including “Spanish-Language Single Broadcast Radio Spot: Agency, Production Company, Advertiser, Radio Station or Group,” and “Use of Emerging Technology in Radio or Audio: Agency, Production Company, Advertiser, Radio Station or Group.” Additional categories include the use of innovation in broadcast radio, branded podcasts, multi-platform campaign with broadcast radio and short (:15) broadcast radio commercials. The Call for Entry deadline is April 8. Finalists for the show will be announced in early May and winners will be announced at the live Radio Mercury Awards on June 6, at SONY Hall in New York City. In addition, the 2024 Final Round Jury, led by chief judge Mitch Bennett, executive creative director, Baldwin&, is comprised of agency creative leaders from across the U.S. Get all the information here.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Salem Radio Network’s 24/7 SRN News service focuses on the T.D. JAKES FOUNDATION – created by Pastor T.D. Jakes to help lift children in underserved communities into what he hopes become life-changing experiences. SRN News is highlighting interviews with former Wells Fargo Bank executive Kelly Cornish, who serves as CEO, in special reports zeroing-in on private/public partnerships that are opening doors for black and brown children in Science, Technology, Math and the Arts.

Media Staffing Network’s new owner is Lisa Fields, who most recently served as SVP and general manager for Broadcast1Source. Fields’ decision to pursue ownership of Media Staffing Network is uniquely rooted in her deep and meaningful friendship with Laurie Kahn, the previous owner of the company, who sadly passed away last year.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Are Your Weekend Promos Upside-down?

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imAvoid THE most-common mistake I hear in promos for talk stations’ weekend ask-the-expert shows: Opening with the Close.

I coach attorneys/real estate agents/personal finance advisors and other pay-for-play weekend hosts, both on-behalf of client stations, and working directly with these professionals in other markets. Done right, these shows ROI like crazy… but too often they’re well-kept secrets. So, it’s important that weekday promos invite weekend tune-in.

Tip: DON’T begin the promo with the host introducing him/herself and naming the show and when it airs. Instead: Like good commercial copy, the Close (asking for tune-in in this case) comes at the end of the promo.

im

Open by stating the listener issues that tuning-in can help inform. Examples:

Attorney: “Have you been injured? Before you accept the insurance company’s offer…”

Real estate agent: “Are you shopping for your first home? Or downsizing?”

Money-talk host: “Is there too much month left at-the-end-of the money?”

Note The Two Magic Words: “you” and “your.”

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

Industry News

Four New Affiliates Airing “The Joe Pags Show”

The Compass Media Networks nationally syndicated “Joe Pags Show” adds four new affiliate stations as iHeartMedia’s WHNZ, Tampa “Impact Radio”; Bustos Media’s KVOI, Tucson “The Voice”; Simmonsim Multimedia’s KNDK- AM/FM, Langdon and KXPO-AM/FM, Grafton, North Dakota add the program to their lineups. “The Joe Pags Show,” hosted by Joe Pagliarulo, is based at flagship WOAI, San Antonio where Pagliarulo and iHeartMedia recently signed an extension through 2026. The program is now heard on more than 170 markets across the country. Joe Pags comments, “I’m incredibly excited to welcome Tampa, Tucson and North Dakota listeners to the show to start off the 2024 presidential election year.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend

Ron DeSantis exits the presidential race as Donald Trump and Nikki Haley trade blows; Benjamin Netanyahu rejects Hamas terms for release of hostages; U.S. military strikes on Houthi rebels in Yemen; Donald Trump’s legal battles; abortion rights; the negative news on China’s economy; Alec Baldwin faces manslaughter charges in “Rust” shooting; and the severe winter weather affecting much of the U.S. were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Report: Jon Marks Booted from CBS Sports Radio Gig by Audacy Brass

Former WIP, Philadelphia afternoon drive sports talk host Jon Marks – who left his daily gig with the Audacy station for personal reasons but planned to continue his weekend work with CBS Sports Radio Network – was ousted from the CBS gig after appearing on a talk show with Crossing Broad’s Kevinim Kinkead and talking about Audacy’s impending bankruptcy. Kinkead reports that Audacy executives weren’t happy with Marks broaching the subject and consequently fired him from the CBS Sports Radio position. Marks told Kinkead, “I am no longer doing CBS Sports Radio because I was terminated by the company following the interview with you…. I wanted to be honest and candid about it. I didn’t rip the company. I wasn’t killing the company. I was very fair and spoke very highly of everybody that worked at WIP, and I wasn’t blaming Audacy (like) it was their fault, I was just talking about the financials of being in the radio business today…” Read the Crossing Broad piece here.