Industry News

Armstrong & Getty Add New Affiliates

The independently syndicated “Armstrong & Getty” show says it added five new affiliate stations thisimg month: KFNX, Phoenix; KMZQ, Las Vegas; KERN, Bakersfield; KSMA, Santa Maria, and WNJD, Cape May, New Jersey. KFNX owner Bill Brady says, “‘Armstrong and Getty’ bring it all: They are funny, knowledgeable, insightful, and always play the hits. They are the prototype of the modern radio talk show. We are thrilled to have them on KFNX. They are a great addition to our lineup.”

Industry News

AWMF Announces Gracies Winners

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation unveils the winners of the 50th Annual Gracie Awards, celebrating five decades of amplifying women’s voices, stories, and achievements in media. AWMF says, “This landmark anniversary marks not only a reflection on past trailblazers but also a declaration of the continued power of women shaping the cultural and media landscape.” The winners across all categoriesimg include: Megan Thee Stallion, Mayim Bialik, Kathy Bates, Angela Yee, Keke Palmer, Rita Cosby, Jill Schlesinger, Kristin Klingshirn, Letty Peniche and more. They will be honored at the Gracie Awards Gala on May 20, 2025, at the Beverly Wilshire in Los Angeles, which will be hosted by actress, comedian, and podcaster, Fortune Feimster. Local and student award recipients will be recognized at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 18 at Cipriani’s in New York City. AWMF president Becky Brooks says, “For 50 years, the Gracie Awards have honored the storytellers who push boundaries and redefine what’s possible. This is more than an awards show – it is a movement that has championed inclusion, representation, and truth in the media. The women we celebrate today are shaping the next 50 years, ensuring that our narratives are not just seen or heard, but felt and remembered. And we are excited to have Fortune Feimster join us as the host for our Golden Anniversary Gala in Los Angeles, bringing her incredible wit and energy to this unforgettable celebration.” You can see all the winners here.

Industry News

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr Comments on Swatting

In response to the recent swatting attack on nationally syndicated talk radio host Joe “Pags” Pagliaruloimg in Texas and several other conservative talk personalities, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr posted the following to his X account, “The recent surge in ‘swatting’ attacks against conservatives is a dangerous form of political violence. I’ve been in touch with law enforcement to ensure they have access to the trace back resources that locate a call’s originating point. Bad actors will face accountability.” So far, no one has been hurt in these swatting incidents. If you missed Joe Pags’ account of what happened to him, read TALKERS’ account here.

Industry Views

How to Get a Media Job Right Out of College

Walter Sabo
a.k.a. Walter M. Sterling
Host, “Sterling Every Damn Night”
WPHT, Philadelphia
Host, “Sterling On Sunday,” TMN

imgThank you, TALKERS for placing me on two panels at the IBSNYC conference. All student conferences have one underlying goal: Attendees want to know how to land a starter job in media. Here’s the information I shared with the eager crowd.

1. Decide where you want to live. Until you have a strong, positive reputation in the industry, no company will sponsor a move. It’s not just the cost of moving, it’s the emotional responsibility. If the job doesn’t work out, the company has lost money plus it will have the added burden of taking the recruit from their homeland.

Hiring a local eliminates the risk of an on-air talent not “getting” the city. If, for example, a DJ in New York announces that the store is on “YOUS TON” street rather than HOUSE-TON street, there is all sorts of trouble. In-town candidates have established relationships that will benefit the sales, news and programming departments.

2. Don’t write a resume, you don’t have one. You have a college degree, stories, and opinions. Fresh, new opinions. A good employer will respect a graduate’s perspective on their on-air product or marketing plans. Study the station where you want to work. Listen to elements you hear that are great and those that you could improve. Write it down. Prepare a good-looking WHITE PAPER about what you think works and what could be better. You don’t have to be “right” you just have to demonstrate an understanding of the station and your willingness to do work. No one else is going to write a paper and present defensible ideas. You will win.

3. Flatter. Select the exact company you want to work for and learn every single thing you can about it. It is astonishing how many times I’ve interviewed a prospect and found out that they knew nothing about the company or the station. They just want a job. Needing a job is not a career path. The people whom you will meet have giant egos. Know what that person has accomplished for their company, express your admiration for it, express your deep desire to be a part of it. Signal that you have no desire to work for any other company in town.

Have your goals lined up in your head and be flexible. Your mission is to get in the door. An employee ID is the win. BUT when asked what you would like to do in your career have a thoughtful response. Aimless=mindless.

4. Avoid answering job postings. Companies are often legally obligated to post jobs and 95% of those jobs are already taken. Instead, search deep into your personal and student network to find any associate or friend who may have a pipeline to the higher-ups in your target company.  HR is a bad place to start. Let the CEO of the company send you to HR after they have been impressed by their conversation with you! A courtesy call to HR following the blessings of the CEO – that’s the best strategy.

5. Once you get the job, do anything, learn everything. Tips: Show up 15 minutes before your day starts, don’t leave until you ask your manager if they need you to do anything else. At first, you will be asked to wash the morning show’s dishes! Log recordings! Take in feeds! Respond to listener calls and emails! You will look for ways to showcase your skills and be given a chance to excel. Take your vacation, call in when really sick, but DO NOT take a “personal day.” Yes, that’s how it really works. Welcome to show business.

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: Delete “Our Website”

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

NOT saying delete the site. Delete the phrase “our website” when directing attention there.

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Simply say your domain name. “On our website” is 1990s-speak that evokes sitting-still at a desktop computer. By now, they understand where your domain name takes them… likely on a smartphone.

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

Industry News

Urban One to Hold Q4 Investors Call

Urban One, Inc announces that it will hold a conference call for investors, analysts and other interested parties to discuss the results from the fourth fiscal quarter of 2024 on Thursday, March 27 at 10:00 am ET.

Industry News

New York Festivals Radio Awards Unveils 2025 Shortlist

The New York Festivals 2025 Radio Awards announces the 2025 Radio Awards Shortlist. NYFestivals says, “This year’s impressive shortlist features entries across a range of categories, including audiobooks, podcasts, dramas, documentaries, breaking news coverage, entertainment, and music specials.img Pioneering work was submitted by radio stations, networks, prominent production companies, and independent producers worldwide.” Additionally, the 2025 National Press Club Award will go to the highest scoring entry in news program categories including: Coverage of Breaking News Story, Coverage of Ongoing News Story, Nonfiction Series, Investigative Journalism podcast, and News Podcast. The winner will be announced during the New York Festivals 2025 Storytellers Gala virtual event on May 22, 2025. See the entire 2025 Radio Awards Shortlist here.

Industry News

Democrat Starks to Leave the FCC

Federal Communications Commission Commissioner Geoffrey Starks announces he is resigning from the Commission. He issued the following statement: “Today I sent a letter to the president and leader Schumer indicating that I intend to resign my seat as a commissioner this spring. Serving the American people as aimg commissioner on the Federal Communications Commission has been the honor of my life. With my extraordinary fellow commissioners and the incredible career staff at the agency, we have worked hard to connect all Americans, promote innovation, protect consumers, and ensure national security. I have learned so much from my time in this position, particularly when I have heard directly from Americans on the issues that matter to them. I have been inspired by the passion, engagement and commitment I have seen from colleagues, advocates, and industry. Over the next few weeks, I look forward to working with the chairman and my fellow commissioners, and all FCC staff, to further the mission of the agency.” Starks is one of two Democrats currently serving on the Commission.

Industry News

Audacy Announces Executive Changes

Audacy makes a number of changes to its senior management team beginning with interim CEO Kelli Turner being named permanent president and CEO. In addition to a couple of promotions, the company has parted ways with four of its senior managers as COO Susan Larkin, chief digital officer J.D. Crowley, chief marketing officer Paul Suchman, and general counsel and EVP Andrew Sutor all exit. Promotionsimg include Chris Oliviero rising from market president for New York to chief business officer; Bob Philips shifting from president of networks and multi-market sales to chief revenue officer; and deputy general counsel Mike Dash rising to EVP and general counsel. Audacy chairman and lead media investor in Soros Fund Management Michael Del Nin says, “On behalf of the Audacy board, we are delighted that Kelli Turner has agreed to take on the permanent president and CEO role and lead Audacy through its next phase of reinvention and growth. She is an exceptional media executive who, along with Chris Oliviero and the rest of the Audacy team, will ensure we continue to invest in high-quality content to engage our audiences and provide best-in-class solutions to our partners.”

Industry News

Rich Herrera to Host “Richmond’s Morning News”

Broadcasting pro Rich Herrera is the new host of “Richmond’s Morning News” on Audacy’s WRVA/WTVR-HD2, Richmond. Audacy Virginia SVP and market manager Bennett Zier says, “Rich brings an authentic voice to the morning airwaves and a strong commitment to his community. His sharp analysis and ability toimg engage listeners in meaningful and entertaining conversation make him a valuable addition to the WRVA team. We’re excited to welcome Rich and continue delivering the news that matters most to our community.” Herrera comments, “I am thrilled to join the WRVA team, a legendary station with a great lineup of hosts and shows. After meeting with Bennett Zier and Zach McHugh and getting the chance to host Richmond’s morning news, I fell in love with the station. My family is excited to make Richmond our home. I want to thank Chris Oliviero and Jeff Sottolano for their support and mentorship, as well as Drew Anderssen, our format vice president, who encouraged me a year ago to transition from sports talk to general news.”

Industry News

Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Hit 550-Affiliate Mark

Premiere Networks announces that “The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show” reaches the 550-affiliate milestone. Recent affiliate additions include: WOWO-AM/FM, Fort Wayne, IN; WTAQ-AM, Green Bay;img KLIX-AM, Twin Falls, Idaho; and more. Premiere Networks EVP of affiliate sales Peter Tripi states, “We couldn’t be happier to celebrate this milestone with Clay and Buck. They’ve worked hard to develop a unique brand that stands out in the marketplace and delivers unparalleled results for our partners. In addition to producing the highest-quality program, their dedication to working directly with our affiliates to drive success in markets across the country is what sets them apart.”

Industry News

Broadcasters Elected to BFoA Board

The Broadcasters Foundation of America announces the election of Kristin Cantrell, owner/CEO Seven Mountains Media and CapCity Communications; Kate Riley, president and CEO America’s Publicimg Television Stations; and Peter H. Smyth, former chairman and CEO Greater Media, to its board of directors. Broadcasters Foundation chair Scott Herman comments, “We are delighted that broadcast executives of this caliber will serve on our Board. Their advocacy for our charitable mission is exemplary. Their input and ideas will help us continue to reach out to broadcasters across America to help those in our business who are in critical need.”

Industry News

Cumulus Media Shuts Down Stations in Cost Saving Move

Cumulus Media is undergoing a corporate mandate to shutter underperforming stations across the country. As reports of dark stations tickle in TALKERS can report that according to the Fulton Sun, Cumulus Mediaimg has ended operations of news/talk KLIK-AM and its translator K278CT. The station ceased broadcasting on March 14. Read the Sun story here. The company also ended operations at sports talk WLZR-AM, Melbourne, Florida and its translator W300DL at 107.9 FM. Last week it was reported that Cumulus ceased operations at KZAC-AM, formerly KSFO-AM.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Matter, and Money Will Follow

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imgThere has never been more news. And news has never been more quotable. It costs two-plus cents to make a penny.

Events impacting everyday life are unfolding around-the-corner, around-the-world, around-the-clock. The listeners our advertisers want as customers are in “What NEXT???” mode.

There have never been more places to get news. And the broadcasters that monetize information best have evolved what we used to call “a radio station” into a multiplatform source of content pertinent to its target listener. Trusted call letters are the surname shared by digital siblings.

Being known for helpful information is key. My client stations image relentlessly as “Your Only Local News Radio.” If you are too, rip me off, and burn-it-in.

But imaging merely talks-the-talk. All the promos in the world won’t walk-the-walk. We become habit-forming by delivering information that is relevant and useful and enabling and easily understood and seems up-to-date.

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Accordingly:

  • When we report information-given-to-us (press releases, etc.), rewrite to succinctly convey what the story means. Typically, press releases are about the sender. Our lead sentence needs to be about how-it-matters-to the listener.
  • Keep it fresh. The second and third time someone hears a story word-for-word, the little voice in his/her head says, “You already told me that.” Every effort we make to update copy is worth it.
  • Listen to your on-hour network, for three reasons: Emulate their crisp copy style, which conveys the consequence of items being reported. And emulate their delivery. Note how FOX News Radio morning anchor Dave Anthony sounds like he’s talking, not reading. And listen for opportunities to localize big national/international stories.

What is being reported by national media, how does it hit home, and who locally can comment or explain?

  • How is DOGE government downsizing impacting people in your state, in your city? Most of the federal workforce does not live in Washington/Maryland/Virginia.
  • We pray for ailing Pope Francis. When he passes, who from your diocese or parish can you interview? “The Conclave” won an Oscar and was nominated for eight.

Music radio is in the fight of its life with streams, and too much talk radio is an angry caricature. Matter most, and money will follow.

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

Industry News

Cumulus Names Gilbert Baez Host of WFNC’s “Good Morning Fayetteville”

Cumulus Media names veteran broadcast journalist Gilbert Baez host of news/talk WFNC, Fayetteville, North Carolina’s “Good Morning Fayetteville,” effective March 17. Baez has been a fixture on WRAL-TV, in Raleigh but served as WFNC’s morning news anchor from 2000 through 2001. Cumulus Fayetteville VPimg and market manager Tish Boden says, “Team Cumulus Fayetteville is excited to have Gilbert Baez join our team as the new host for ‘Good Morning Fayetteville’ on WFNC News Talk. When you say the name Gilbert Baez in the market it is synonymous with news. I look forward to Gilbert’s success on Good Morning Fayetteville.” WFNC program director Kelvin Culbreth adds, “Gilbert Baez brings a deep desire to report the news and a true sense of devotion to Fayetteville, Fort Bragg, and Cumberland County. He’ll bring his wealth of knowledge about our area and his vast cache of connections. We have heard, ‘Everyone knows Gilbert and Gilbert knows everyone.’ He is the perfect host to carry GMF into the future.”

Industry Views

Sabo Sez: The Actual Future of Radio

By Walter Sabo
a.k.a. Walter M. Sterling
Host, “Sterling Every Damn Night,”
WPHT, Philadelphia
Host, Sterling On Sunday, TM

imgThank you, TALKERS for having me on panels at the TALKERS Generations 2025 IBSNYC conference this past Saturday (3/8). Moderator and Philadelphia talk show god Dom Giordano asked us the inevitable: “What is the future of radio?”

You’ve likely had the experience of saying something funny or profound and been surprised.  “Where did that come from!??”

What’s the future of radio? I replied, “The next sentence out of your mouth. Radio will have a future if the next thing you say compels a listener to hear your next sentence.”

Where did that come from? The future is up to us. For over 100 years radio has engaged our listener to want to hear the next sentence. No wires, cable, laptop, computer. Distribution? No problem. Subscriptions? No. Technical challenges? No. Radio just works.

Your listener will want radio to just-work as long as the next sentence is our best. Ever.

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

Edison’s Infinite Dial Webinar Scheduled for March 20

Edison Research will present a webinar on March 20 at 2:00 pm ET to reveals its latest Infinite Dial data. The company says it is presenting the report with support from Audacy, Cumulus Media, and SiriusXMimg Media. “The Infinite Dial 2025 will be unveiled by Edison Research vice president Megan Lazovick alongside special guest James Cridland, editor of Podnews. With 35 years in the audio business, Cridland will offer unique analysis into the numbers and global context. Together, they will provide attendees expert insights on the latest digital audio consumption trends and their implications for the industry.”

Industry News

Saga Communications 2024 Q4 Net Revenue Falls 1.3%

Saga Communications is reporting its operating results for the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the full year of 2024. The company says net revenue for Q4 was $28.8 million, a decline of 1.3% compared to the same period in 2023. Station operating expense increased 4.1% for the quarter to $24.3 million comparedimg to the same period last year. Saga reports net income of $1.3 million for the quarter compared to net income of $2.5 million for the fourth quarter last year. For the full year of 2024, net revenue was $110.3 million, a decrease of 2.2% from the full year 2023. Net income was $3.5 million for the full year of 2024 compared to $9.5 million for the full year of 2023.

Industry News

More from TALKERS Generations 2025 at IBSNYC

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Pictured above is Talk Media Network nationally syndicated talk host Dr. Daliah Wachs introducing the “Radio’s Place in a Diverse, Digital World” panel.

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Pictured above is WGDJ, Albany owner and talk host Paul Vandenburgh making a point while speaking on the “Launching and Managing a Career in a Changing Media Industry” panel.

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Pictured above is WICC, Bridgeport talk host Lisa Wexler discussing the talk host’s responsibility to their listeners to be truthful with their audience.

All photos by Olivia Mannarino.

Industry News

Gun Talk Celebrates 30 Years on the Radio

Tom Gresham’s “Gun Talk” is celebrating 30 years on the air. The host of the nationally syndicated shooting sports talk show says, “‘Gun Talk’ radio is perhaps more important today than when it started 30img years ago. Whether it’s helping the first-time gun buyer sort out what she needs to buy, or exposing politicians who claim to be supporters of the Second Amendment while putting restrictions on this right, there’s plenty to talk about. Responsible gun ownership is strong, and I’m glad to be part of movement.” The program airs live on Sundays from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm ET and is heard on more than 260 stations.

Industry News

Rumble Acquires $17.1 Million in Bitcoin

Video-sharing platform and cloud services provider Rumble announces that it has added approximately 188 Bitcoin to its treasury at an average price of approximately $91,000 per coin, consistent with its previously announced Bitcoin treasury strategy to allocate up to $20 million to Bitcoin. The company saysimg this move further emphasizes its conviction in Bitcoin as a valuable tool for strategic planning and reinforces its expansion into cryptocurrency. Rumble chairman and CEO Chris Pavlovski comments, “We are excited to announce these purchases and allocation of Bitcoin as part of our treasury strategy as well as a larger strategic move as we further expand our ties to the crypto industry. These holdings have the potential to serve as a valuable hedge against inflation and will not be subject to dilution like so many overprinted government-issued currencies.”

Industry News

Erick Erickson Show Adds New Affiliates

The Compass Media Networks syndicated “Erick Erickson Show” adds new affiliate stations to its roster.img Now airing the program are Townsquare Media’s KONA-AM, Tri-Cities, Washington; Eifel Tower Broadcasting’s KZHN-AM, Paris, Texas; Vero Beach Broadcasters’ WTTB, Vero Beach, Florida; and Zimmer Midwest Communications’ KWTO, Springfield, Missouri. “The Erick Erickson Show” airs live weekdays from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET.

Industry News

BFoA Honors Dan Mason with Lifetime Achievement Award

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The photo above was taken at the Broadcasters Foundation of America’s Golden Mic Award gala and fundraiser in New York City on Monday evening. Pictured (from l-r) are BFoA chairman Scott Herman; former CBS Radio CEO and recipient of the 2025 Edward F. McLaughlin Lifetime Achievement Award, Dan Mason; and BFoA president Tim McCarthy. Also taking place at the Golden Mic Award gala was Katz Media Group CEO and BFOA board member Marc Gray accepting the Philip J. Lombardo Spirit Award on behalf of Katz Media, which has raised more than $450,000 with its annual company-wide donation drive to support the BFoA.

Industry News

More from TALKERS Generations 2025 at IBSNYC

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Pictured above is WABC, New York journalist and talk show host Dominic Carter giving a high-five to one of the students asking him career advice. Carter spoke on the “Radio’s Place in a Diverse, Digital World” panel.

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Pictured above is TALKERS VP and executive editor Kevin Casey showing off the new C. Crane WiFi 3 internet radio. TALKERS and C. Crane gave away five of these radios to college students who were eager to get them.

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Pictured above is consultant and WPHT, Philadelphia & nationally syndicated talk host Walter Sabo making a point during his panel discussion. A student asked for his advice about launching a career out of college and Sabo told her, “First, decide where you want to live. Once you’re in that city, you can begin to approach broadcasting companies about getting your foot in the door.”

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Pictured above is Salem Radio Network talk host Mike Gallagher speaking while taking part in the “Radio’s Place in a Diverse, Digital World” panel. All photos by Olivia Mannarino

Industry News

Audacy Gives KMOX, St. Louis a Full Market FM

Audacy does a frequency swap in St. Louis giving news/talk KMOX-AM the full-market Class C2 FM atimg 104.1 that had been the home to hip hop WHHL-FM “HOT 104.1.” In return, KMOX gives up translator K254CR at 98.7 to the hip hop outlet. These changes become effective on March 24. Audacy St. Louis and Wichita SVP and market manager Becky Domyan says, “We’re thrilled to expand KMOX’s reach and bring the trusted news and entertainment our listeners rely on, as well as Cardinals baseball, on an enhanced FM signal that covers the greater St. Louis region.”

Industry News

Cumulus Facing NASDAQ Delisting

Last week, Cumulus Media received a notification from the listing qualifications department of NASDAQ indicating that, based on the company’s stockholders’ equity of $6.95 million is not in compliance with the minimum stockholders’ equity requirement for continued listing on the NASDAQ Global Market. The ruleimg requires companies to maintain stockholders’ equity of at least $10 million or meet the alternative compliance standards relating to the market value of the listed securities or the company’s total assets and revenue. Now, Cumulus has until April 21 to provide NASDAQ with a plan to achieve and sustain compliance. If NASDAQ accepts the plan, NASDAQ may grant an extension of up to 180 calendar days to evidence compliance. Cumulus says it is continuing to evaluate potential options to resolve the deficiency and regain compliance, including the possibility of applying to transfer to the NASDAQ Capital Market.

Industry News

News/Talk KSLM, Salem, Oregon Suffers Late Night Attack on its Building

An attack on the studios of KCCS LLC’s news/talk KSLM-AM/K282BY in Salem, Oregon left three large plate glass windows shattered. The attack happened during the early morning hours of March 8. Theimg Salem Reporter says engineer Ian Carlson was at the station we he saw the windows shattered one by one. He says the glass flew in with such force that it sent shards 30 feet down the station’s hallway. He tells the Salem Reporter, “It was absolutely terrifying, and I think it was intended to terrify.” The report says that police found no evidence that anyone tried to enter the building and it was unclear what caused the damage. Station general manager Jacqueline Smith says, “From our perspective, it wasn’t vandalism. It was a targeted attack.” Photo: Salem Reporter. Read the Salem Reporter account here.

Industry News

TALKERS Generations 2025 at IBSNYC

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Pictured above is Bold Gold Media Group and Bold Gold Media Foundation CEO Vince Benedetto (left) with WPG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley (right). Hurley is presenting Benedetto’s Foundation with a $5,000 grant from Hurley’s own charitable organization. Benedetto also delivered the keynote address and Hurley served as a moderator at the TALKERS Generations 2025 program on Saturday (3/8) at the IBSNYC 2025 conference.

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Pictured above is WRFH, Hillsdale general manager and lecturer in journalism at Hillsdale College Scot Bertram (right) and Vince Benedetto (left). Both took part in the “Old School/New School/Next School — Learning from Each Other” panel discussion. The panel was sponsored by Comrex.

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Pictured above are (from l-r) Texas-based talk radio host Chris Krok; consultant and WPHT, Philadelphia and Talk Media Network syndicated talk host Walter Sabo; WGDJ, Albany owner and talk radio host Paul Vandenburgh; and TALKERS VP/associate publisher and Harrison Legal Strategies senior partner Matthew B. Harrison sitting on the “Launching and Managing a Career in a Changing Media Industry” panel. The panel was sponsored by Dr. Asa

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Pictured above are Harry Hurley (left) and Red Apple Media Group and WABC, New York owner John Catsimatidis (right) during a one-on-one fireside chat titled, “Setting the Stage.” This segment was sponsored by The Ramsey Show.

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Pictured above are (from l-r): Westwood One talk radio host Rich Valdes; WABC, New York journalist and talk host Dominic Carter; and Salem Radio Network talk host Mike Gallagher on the “Radio’s Place in a Diverse, Digital World” panel, sponsored by Radio America and Our American Stories.

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Pictured above are (from l-r): WICC, Bridgeport talk host Lisa Wexler; iHeartMedia VP news/talk/sports Chris Berry; and WRVA, Richmond, Virginia talk host Jeff Katz on the “Finding Truth in an Age of Misinformation” panel, sponsored by Premiere Networks.

TALKERS will present more coverage from Generations 2025 at IBSNYC 2025 throughout this week.

All photos by Olivia Mannarino

 

Industry News

WOR, New York Unveils “Mendte in the Morning”

iHeartMedia names Larry Mendte the new, permanent host of the morning drive program on news/talk WOR, New York. “Mendte in the Morning” airs from 6:00 am to 10:00 am on 710 WOR, The Voice of New York. WOR program director Tom Cuddy says, “Since joining our team in 2023 as our news director andimg morning drive news anchor, Larry has built a strong connection with our listeners, who have responded very positively to his time as our interim morning show host. His remarkable career, which includes an astounding 97 Emmy awards and stints at WABC Radio, Channel 7 Eyewitness News, WPIX/11 and ‘Access Hollywood,’ speaks for itself. With all of this experience, he’s the ideal choice to wake up the tri-state area.” Longtime New York radio news anchor Jacquelyn Karl will deliver updates on “Mendte in the Morning,” while Natalie Vacca will continue in her role as executive producer.

Industry News

WCCO Brings “The Henry Lake Show” Back

Reversing course after the reduction if force that saw several hundred Audacy employees lose their jobs last Thursday, the company’s news/talk WCCO, Minneapolis is bringing evening host Henry Lake and co-host Chris Tubbs back. BringMetheNews reports that the show returned to the air on Friday. Lake openedimg Friday’s show saying, “Has the last 36 hours been a little bit awkward? Not gonna sit here and lie. I am thankful. I am happy to be here. Happy to be speaking with you. Happy to be doing a show to all of you on this iconic radio station.” Lake added, “We know that there were some national layoffs yesterday, and I want to note that because we know that industries all over the country are going through some rough times – and radio is not immune to that. I’ve got colleagues in other markets that unfortunately lost their jobs, and for a short time yesterday, it looked like me and Chris were in that same situation. I feel gratitude. I’m thankful that we’ve got good leadership here at WCCO, and the higher-ups appreciate me and Chris.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

The Salem Radio Network nationally syndicated program “Armed American Radio,” hosted by Mark Walters, adds new affiliates as Steckline Communications’ KGYN-AM, Guymon, Oklahoma; K292HJ, Liberal, Kansas; and Taylor Made Broadcasting’s KGLC-FM, Miami, Oklahoma add the show to their lineups.

PodcastOne will participate in the upcoming 37th Annual ROTH Conference taking place March 16-18. PodcastOne president Kit Gray and CFO Ryan Carhart will host one-on-one meetings with institutional investors on site during this annual invitation-only event.

Industry News

IBS/TALKERS GENERATIONS 2025 Conference – Begins Today

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Presenting an innovative new industry conference. The launch of a new and innovative TALKERS industry conference – “GENERATIONS 2025” – that will be co-located at the forthcoming Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) conference – IBSNYC 2025 – is set for Friday and Saturday, March 7-8 at the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel. The four-hour TALKERS event will take place between 12:30 pm and 4:30 pm on Saturday, March 8 in the heart of the iconic IBS gathering. It will feature an array of six dynamic sessions with 19-plus luminary industry speakers including a keynote address, fireside chat, and four panel discussions that will tackle such topics as “Launching and Managing a Career in Talk Radio/Talk Media,” “Old School, New School, Next School: Learning from Each Other,” “Radio’s Place in a Diverse, Digital World,” “Finding and Delivering Truth in an Age of Misinformation,” and much more. TALKERS is also serving as the Presenting Sponsor of the entire IBSNYC 2025 event.

 Please click here for the latest, updated agenda.

 Please click here for the latest registration information

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Pictured above are TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey (left) and TALKERS VP/associate publisher and Harrison Media Law senior partner Matthew B. Harrison (right) at day one of the IBSNYC 2025 event.