Industry News

Saga’s Chris Forgy Named to BFoA Board

The Broadcasters Foundation of America elects Saga Communications president and CEO Chris Forgy to its board of directors. BFoA chair Scott Herman says, “Chris is a well-respected leader in the broadcastim industry, and I’m delighted to welcome him to our board. His input will be valuable as we continue to deliver aid to our colleagues who are in desperate need.” Forgy comments, “I have always believed in giving back to the industry that has allowed me to be of service to local communities. Colleagues who have fallen on extremely difficult circumstances need and deserve our support. I am honored to serve on the board and contribute to the Foundation’s charitable mission.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

FOX News Digital reports that it finished May as the top news brand with multiplatform minutes and multiplatform views, according to Comscore. FOX News Digital closed out the month with 3.2 billion total multiplatform minutes, 1.7 billion total multiplatform views, and 100 million total digital multiplatform unique visitors.

Good Karma Brands adds a third station, WBEV-AM, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin “ESPN Beaver Dam” as a broadcaster for all University of Wisconsin women’s volleyball games starting in the 2024-2025 season. The station joins WTLX-FM “100.5 ESPN Madison” and WTMJ, Milwaukee is carrying the games.

Industry News

Ongoing Coverage of TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond

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

im

TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond took place on the ultra-modern TV soundstages of Hofstra University’s magnificent Lawrence Herbert School of Communication. This photo is of the stage during the 8:00 am breakfast which was attended by what was already a packed house. TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey is seen at the podium. The breakfast was sponsored by the Sean Hannity Show and Premiere Networks.

im

TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond was attended by some of the most important players in talk radio programming. Pictured (l-r) are two key members of the Audacy team: Lisa Polizzi, brand manager of WBEN, Buffalo and Greg Stocker, brand manager of WPHT, Philadelphia. Stocker appeared as a speaker on the “Programming News/Talk Radio” panel.

im

All segments of the talk media industry were represented at TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond. Pictured (l-r) mingling in the halls of Hofstra University’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication are Dave Gorab, VP/GM of talk programming at SiriusXM Satellite Radio and Steven Portnoy, ABC News Radio national correspondent. Gorab presented a touching tribute to Sirius legend the late Joe Madison and his widow (and executive producer) Sharon Madison who was the 2024 recipient of the TALKERS “Woman of the Year” award.

im

The dean of Hofstra University’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication, Mark Lukasiewicz addressed the attendees at the TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond luncheon.

im

Widely respected talk radio programmer/host Joe Thomas (r) and his wife Elaine Thomas (l) celebrated the new co-ownership of their recent acquisition of WTON, Staunton, VA by attending TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond. Joe Thomas served as introducer of the panel discussion, “Generating News/Talk Revenue in the Digital Era.”

Industry News

“The Chad Benson Show” Joins KRLD-AM, Dallas

Audacy welcomes the Radio America nationally syndicated program “The Chad Benson Show” to KRLD-AM, Dallas-Fort Worth, airing in the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm daypart. Audacy news/talk format VP and KRLDim brand manager Drew Anderssen states, “We know our listeners trust KRLD for news updates, and now more than ever, where you get your information matters. We’re excited to bring Chad and his wildly popular show to KRLD and deliver trusted news and insights to our listeners. His conversational, informative, and funny takes on issues will be a refreshing addition to our weekday programming.” Benson comments, “I’m so excited to be a part of KRLD, a legendary station with a long history in DFW and North Texas. I look forward to connecting with listeners about the biggest issues we’re facing today.”

Industry News

BFoA Holds Third Media Mixer

im

The Broadcasters Foundation of America held its third Media Mixer on June 13 at the New York City studios of iHeart Media. Approximately 150 people – from CEOs to those interested in the business – attended the soiree designed to give up-and-coming professionals in broadcasting “unprecedented access to talent, managers, and executives and to bring awareness of the mission of the Broadcasters Foundation to those that are new to the industry.” Pictured above are (from l-r): Heather Cohen, president of the Weiss Agency; Tim McCarthy, president of the Broadcasters Foundation; Gandhi, a member of the nationally syndicated “Elvis Duran And The Morning Show”; Scott Herman, chair of the Broadcasters Foundation; Maxwell, from Z-100; and Mark Simone, from WOR.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

PodcastOne unveils its newest podcast, “Tactful Pettiness,” a cultural comedy podcast from friends and co-hosts Cody Rigsby and Andrew Chappelle. PodcastOne president and co-founder Kit Gray states, “Cody and Andrew won us over from our very first conversation about developing a podcast. Their enthusiasm and energy are infectious, and their quick takes are hilarious. We cannot wait to introduce some ‘Tactful Pettiness’ into the world of podcasting.”

The Newsweek syndicated radio program “The Josh Hammer Show” joins the program schedule at iHeartMedia’s NewsRadio 610 WIOD Miami where it will air Saturdays at 5:00 pm.

Industry News

Ongoing Coverage of TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond

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

im

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

im

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

im

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

im

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

im

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

Industry News

Lonnquist to Lead Sales for iHeartMedia Twin Cities

iHeartMedia names Eric Lonnquist SVP of sales for the company’s Minneapolis stations that includes news/talk KTLK-AM, sports talk KFXN “K-Fan” and five music brands. Lonnquist most recently served inim major market sales at Paycor. iHeartMedia Minneapolis market president Greg Alexander comments, “Eric Lonnquist is a seasoned sales professional in the Minneapolis market. His extensive background in media sales, combined with his leadership roles in major market sales makes him the perfect fit for our team. We are excited to have Eric lead our sales strategy and drive our continued success across our iconic broadcast and digital platforms.”

Industry News

Radio Hall of Fame Unveils 2024 Inductees

The Museum of Broadcast Communications announces the eight 2024 inductees into the Radio Hall of Fameim who will be honored at the ceremony on September 19, at the Omni Nashville Hotel. Six of the inductees were elected by a voting participant panel comprised of more than 900 industry professionals and two inductees were voted on by the Radio Hall of Fame Nominating Committee. This year’s inductees are: “The Crook & Chase Countdown” (Lorianne Crook and Charlie Chase); Lee Harris; Phil Hendrie; Jaime Jarrin; Kraig Kitchin; Barry Mayo; Mary McCoy; and Matt Siegel.

Industry News

Ongoing Coverage of TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond

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

im

A group of top talk radio pros participated in the panel discussion “Programming News/Talk Radio.” Pictured (l-r): Doug Stephan, CEO/Founder, Stephan Multimedia; Phil Boyce, SVP, spoken word format, Salem Media Group / ops VP, New York region, WMCA / WNYM-AM 970 The Answer; Paul Vandenburgh, owner/host, WGDJ Talk 1300, Albany, NY; Scott Lakefield, APD, WOR, New York; Greg Stocker, brand manager, WPHT, Philadelphia; and Grace Blazer, VP, national NTS brand coordinator, director of news and AM programming, Florida region, iHeart Media Miami.  The panel was moderated by Mike McVay, president McVay Media Consulting (pictured below).

im

im

TMN syndicated host Dr. Daliah Wachs performed the singing of the National Anthem.

im

One of the main panel discussions at TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond was “Generating News/Talk Revenue in the Digital Era.” Pictured (l-r): Moderator Steve Lapa, president, Lapcom Communications Corp.; Vince Benedetto, CEO, Bold Gold Media Group; Josh Leng, Founder/CEO, Talk Media Network; John Caracciolo, president/CEO JVC Broadcasting; Ron Hartenbaum, managing member, Crossover Media; Kathy Carr, president, Howie Carr Radio Network; and Julie Talbott, president Premiere Networks.

im

Pictured above is a segment of the crowd at TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond giving a standing ovation during the event.

Industry News

Frank Morano Show Adds Stations in Las Vegas and the Twin Cities

The WABC, New York-based overnight talk show, “The Other Side of Midnight with Frank Morano,” is nowim airing on Audacy talk outlets WCCO, Minneapolis and KMXB-HD3, Las Vegas “K-DAWN.” Red Apple Audio Networks distributes the show live from 1:00 am to 5:00 am nightly. Morano comments, “I’m incredibly grateful to be on both of these great radio stations. I’ve dreamt of being on the radio in Minnesota ever since Jesse Ventura ran for governor. It’s great to be on a station that has so many independent thinkers. As far as ‘K-DAWN’ goes, I’m absolutely thrilled to be on the air in Las Vegas, a 24/7 city. It’s great to talk to an audience in a city that’s up all night.”

Industry News

Ongoing Coverage of TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond

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

im

Pictured (l-r) are the industry visionaries who made the “Brave New World” panel one of the most illuminating highlights of TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond – Matthew B. Harrison, Esq., VP/associate publisher, TALKERS / senior partner, Harrison Media Law; Steven Goldstein, CEO, Amplifi Media; Heather Cohen, president, The Weiss Agency; John T. Mullen, GM, WRHU-FM/WRHU.org, Hofstra University; and Scot Bertram, GM, WRFH / Radio Free Hillsdale 101.7 FM. Not pictured, moderator Harry Hurley, morning host, WPG, Atlantic City. The session explored radio’s generational divide, the impact of YouTube and social media; changing technology, the protection of intellectual property rights, artificial intelligence and more.

im

Bill Brady, owner/host, KFNX, Phoenix “The Pulse of Arizona” delivered a compelling address appropriately titled, “The Case for AM Radio” that received a standing ovation.

im

WPG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley (r) presented Broadcasters Foundation of America chairman Scott Herman (l) with a donation of $8,000 from the famous Hurley in the Morning Charty Foundation.  Each year, beginning with a $1,000 donation in 2017, Hurley has presented a gift to the BFoA at the TALKERS conference increasing the sum by a thousand dollars each year. The total now stands at $36,000. Herman delivered an emotional address detailing the tremendous work the Broadcasters Foundation does each year in providing financial support and protection to radio and TV professionals who have fallen on hard times due to catastrophic health issues or natural disasters.  For more information about the Broadcasters Foundation of America please click here.  www.broadcastersfoundation.org

im

Rob Finnerty, host of “Wake Up America” on Newsmax TV, delivered an insightful lunchtime address titled “In Front of the Camera” expressing the perspective of talk show hosts on the television side of talk media.  Newsmax sponsored the lunch at TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond.

Industry News

Aitken Named Cumulus Media Chief HR Officer

Cumulus Media promotes Kriston Aitken to chief human resources officer, effective July 1, 2024. She’ll be responsible for human resources strategy and operations, talent management, compensation and benefits, and supporting the advancement of the company culture. She succeeds Todd McCarty, who is retiring afterim nearly nine years with the company. Aitken joined Cumulus Media in 2016 and has been SVP of human resources for the past two years. Cumulus CEO Mary G. Berner says, “For the past nearly eight years, Kriston has been a stand-out HR executive, and I’m delighted that she is fully ready and able to step into this important role. Given our significant focus on culture and the fact that 94% of our surveyed employees express pride in working at Cumulus, it’s crucial to have a leader genuinely invested in cultivating our culture. Kriston’s commitment to this aspect and her proven operational skills give me full confidence that she will continue to enhance the legacy that Todd leaves behind.”

Industry News

Today is BFoA Giving Day

Today (6/13) is the annual Broadcasters Foundation of America Giving Day in which the charity hopes willim bring in much-needed funds to help radio and television colleagues who are in great need. Here is the link to make a donation.

Industry News

Ongoing Coverage of TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond

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

im

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

im 

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

im

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

im

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

Industry Views

The Evolution of Radio Station Stickers in the 21st Century

By Andy Gladding, EdD, CBT

Chief Engineer
Salem Media of New York
WRHU Radio, Hofstra University

imThe best thing about attending media conferences like TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond, which occurred last week on June 7, is the opportunity to hear diverse viewpoints from industry experts. Gatherings like these also provide the opportunity for attendees like me to “chew” on some of the great ideas presented by the expert panelists and think about solutions to some of the challenges raised during the discussions.

One of the many contemporary issues facing radio brought up during TALKERS 2024 was the evolution and need for vinyl bumper stickers in today’s branding environment. Bumper stickers have been a central component of radio station marketing over several decades, as they provide a low-cost visual aid for stations to get their logo and frequency out to the public, using a “listener-driven” mobile platform. However, as cars increase in price, value, and longevity, station owners are questioning the willingness of car owners to plaster their high-cost investment with third-party advertising. Therefore, the value of continuing to create and distribute vinyl stickers for radio stations has been called into question.

While cars may no longer be an attractive moving billboard destination for station listeners, a whole new field of organic advertising space has emerged, especially on the surface of laptop computers, tablets, and other mobile devices. Many consumers use the uniform blank space of their laptops and cellphones as a place for vinyl stickers. The idea behind this concept is that vinyl stickers allow the device owner to personalize their equipment for identity branding and theft protection. It is much easier to identify a personal device at a place like a coffee shop or airplane security line if you’ve placed a personalized vinyl sticker on it. Many Millennials and Gen-Z’ers are more willing to use the back of their electronic devices as a showcase for vinyl sticker advertising, as it helps attract attention to the user while in a public setting and lets others know “what they are about” with just a quick glance. Electronic devices are on display everywhere and are often carried around with the user in backpacks. When presented with a vinyl sticker, the recipient is usually willing to place the sticker on the device, simply because trying to store it elsewhere will usually result in the destruction of the vinyl sticker.

With this in mind, radio station marketing folks may want to rethink the footprint and layout of their vinyl stickers, choosing to migrate the wider “car bumper” format to a smaller, more concise mini-billboard that could live, display, and survive more effectively on the back of an electronic device.

Solutions like these can only happen when the listener is presented with a challenge by top industry minds. This TALKERS 2024 attendee is grateful for the chance to help provide a solution to a practical problem, made possible by the collaborative environment fostered by an in-person gathering.

Andy Gladding is the chief engineer for Salem Media of New York and WRHU, Hofstra University. He can be emailed at biggladman@aol.com

Industry News

Ongoing Coverage of TALKERS 2024 Radio and Beyond

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

im

Glenn Beck of Premiere Networks delivering TALKERS 2024 keynote address.  He spoke about the importance of developing storytelling skills as well as maintaining authenticity.  “Mean what you say and say what you mean.”

im

Howie Carr (l) of the Howie Carr Radio Network being presented the TALKERS 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award celebrating his long career as a New England talk radio staple as well as his enormous accomplishments fighting crime and corruption as an investigative journalist. Mark Goldman of Goldman McCormick PR (r) made the presentation.

im

WOLB, Baltimore veteran talk show host Larry Young paid tribute to the late SiriusXM Satellite Radio icon Joe Madison in a double ceremony honoring the memory of Joe and the outstanding career of his widow/executive producer Sharon “Sherry” Madison who was the 2024 recipient of the TALKERS Woman of the Year award.  Also speaking (but not pictured) at the presentation were Dave Gorab, VP/GM of talk programming at SiriusXM and last year’s recipient Martha Zoller of WDUN, Athens, GA who accepted on behalf of Mrs. Madison who was unable to attend.

We will post more photos from TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond tomorrow.

Industry News

Good Karma’s “101.7 The Truth” at White House Juneteenth Ceremony

im

Good Karma Brands staff from WGKB-AM/W269DL, Milwaukee “101.7 The Truth” are pictured above at the Juneteenth Regional Reporters Summit as part of President Joe Biden’s Juneteenth Celebration at the White House yesterday (6/10). From left to right are: on-air host Tory Lowe, marketing consultant Danyale Hegwood, general manager Cherie Harris, and on-air host and director of content Kyle Wallace.

Industry News

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

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

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Behold the Radio Unicorn!

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imGot young local radio news talent? CONGRATULATIONS, for five reasons:

1. They’re young, which our 100-year-old medium NEEDS.
2. Streaming and satellite competitors don’t do local.
3. Radio is still #1 in-car. And in-home again, via smart speakers.
4. As listeners wonder “What NEXT?” news has their back.
5. Talent is acquired. Hire attitude, train skills.

Just DOING local news makes you special, especially if your AM/FM competitors don’t. Six tips for taking it to the next level, and making your station more habit forming:

— Make this hour’s newscast sound different than last hour’s. A particularly clever turn-of-phrase can come back to haunt you the second time a listener hears that version. The little voice in their head says, “I already heard that.”
— Lead with the latest. Avoid telling the story in chronological order. Is there some detail that can top this hour’s version? “A third shift of state troopers has joined the search for little Sarah Johnson…”
— Write as though you were telling the listener face-to-face. The police posted: “Anyone who has seen a car matching that description is asked to contact the police.” Rewrite to say, “If you see that car, call the police.”

im

— Less is more. Long sentences can make it difficult for the listener to follow the story and understand the information. Emulate your network’s writing style. Write for the ear. Avoid using too many adjectives and adverbs.
— But don’t leave out verbs! “The woman’s husband arrested the wounded man taken to the hospital.” Huh?
— Highly recommended: “Writing Broadcast News Shorter, Sharper, Stronger” by Mervin Block (expensive on Amazon, FREE on Google Books).

Time Spent Listening is still the ballgame. Specifically, we want to add occasions of tune-in, which is easier than extending duration-per-occasion. Translation: There is very little we can do to keep someone in a parked car with the key on Accessories.

So be known for knowing. Benefit-laden imaging will earn you the information reputation that keeps listeners coming back again and again, “for a quick update.” And user-friendly copy points will be more effective than the boastful station-centric way many news promos sound.

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

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

FOX News star Brian Kilmeade’s late morning talk radio program is added to the program lineup at Audacy’s news/talk WTIC-AM, Hartford in the 9:00 am to 11:00 am slot. Kilmeade tells TALKERS, “I’m thrilled to be joining the WTIC all-star lineup especially at this critical time in our election cycle. I can’t wait to meet and greet the listeners in person this summer!”

Talk Media Network nationally syndicated personality Wayne Allyn Root was the opening speaker at two Donald Trump events in Las Vegas over the weekend. On Saturday, he spoke at a Trump fundraiser at Ahern Hotel in Las Vegas. Then on Sunday, Root opened for Trump at a public outdoor rally.

Industry Views

Sabo Sez: Do Your Show

By Walter Sabo
CEO, Sabo Media Partners
A.K.A. Walter M Sterling
Host
WPHT, Philadelphia – daily
Talk Media Network – Sundays

imWhen recently starting nightly on WPHT, Philadelphia, I asked program director Greg Stocker if there was anything else management needed from me. Greg said, “Do your show.”

Since that luncheon meeting his words have sifted through my fevered brain and I realized that at this moment in time, his words were profound: Do your show. 

What he did not say:

Meet with sales.

Meet with HR.

Be sure to hit the live reads on time.

Don’t annoy (fill in the blank).

Get all the spots in.

Make sure the studio is clean when you’re done.

David Field listens so be careful.

Meet with sales.

I do my show and nothing else and I’m very happy.  The endless whine coming from our colleagues can be traced to ignoring the prime directive:  Do your show.

 Talk radio is magic, it’s free-form radio. Your music station brethren envy your freedom. They have to call for permission to change the order of pre-programmed songs! You don’t have to do anything which means you can do what you want… which means you can do something great.

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. HITVIEWS clients included Pepsi, FOX TV, Timberland, Microsoft, and CBS Television. He can be reached at sabowalter@gmail.com. His nightly show “Walter Sterling at Night” is heard on WPHT, Philadelphia. His syndicated show, “Sterling On Sunday,” from Talk Media Network, airs 10:00 pm-1:00 am ET, now in its 10th year of success.

Industry News

NAB Elects New Board Leaders

The National Association of Broadcasters announces the results of the 2024 NAB Executive Committee elections. Collin Jones, executive vice president, corporate strategy and development of Cumulusim Media and president, Westwood One, was elected radio board chair by the NAB radio board. Kevin Perry, president and CEO of Perry Publishing and Broadcasting Company, was elected radio board first vice chair, and Leonard Wheeler, president of Mel Wheeler, Inc., was elected radio board second vice chair. Chris Ornelas, executive vice president and general counsel of Beasley Media Group, was reelected to the radio board’s major group representative seat on the NAB board’s executive committee. Perry Sook continues the second year of his role as joint board chair. The position is elected every two years. The elections took place at the NAB Board of Directors meeting, held June 3-4.

Industry News

WTEM, Washington to Broadcast the WNBA’s Mystics Games

The WNBA’s Washington Mystics and Audacy sports talk WTEM-AM Washington, DC announce a partnership to broadcast Mystics games live on “The Team 980” throughout the 2024 WNBA season.im The broadcasts will feature a simulcast live audio feed from Monumental Sports Network’s television broadcast and fans will be able to hear all 25 of the Mystics’ remaining regular season games available on the network this season. While most radio broadcasts will air on The Team 980, select games will air on “106.7 The Fan” (WJFK-FM) and The Bet Washington (WJFK-AM), and all games will be streamed locally on the Audacy app.

Industry News

TALKERS Conference is an Advance Sellout

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

Industry News

Suzyn Waldman to Be Honored at Gracies Luncheon

When the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) presents the 49th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 18, at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City, pioneering Yankees sports announcer Suzyn Waldman will be honored with the Gracies Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of herim extraordinary contributions to sports broadcasting for over four decades, notably as one of the first women to cover Major League Baseball. Serving as host for the event will be ABC News senior national affairs correspondent and “20/20” co-anchor Deborah Roberts. AWMF president Becky Brooks comments, “We are honored to have Deborah Roberts, an exemplary journalist and storyteller, host this year’s Gracies Luncheon. Her illustrious career and dedication to impactful reporting epitomize the values we celebrate at the Gracie Awards. Additionally, we are honored to recognize Suzyn Waldman’s pioneering contributions to the industry with the Gracies Lifetime Achievement Award. This event promises to be a memorable celebration of talent and achievement in media.”

Industry News

Mary Katharine Ham Named Contributor at FOX News Media

FOX News Media announces that it is signing Mary Katharine Ham as a contributor, a role in whichim she’ll provide analysis across the network’s platforms. In addition to her contributor role, she is also a columnist for OutKick and will continue to host her bi-weekly podcast “Getting Hammered” alongside Vic Matus. Ham previously was a FOX News contributor from 2007-2015. She went on to serve as a CNN contributor, departing the network after being suspended in 2022 for speaking out against then-legal contributor Jeffrey Toobin and his Zoom scandal.

Industry News

Jeff Angelo Named New Morning Host at WHO, Des Moines

At iHeartMedia’s news/talk WHO, Des Moines, Jeff Angelo moves from his most recent late morningim daypart to morning drive, taking over for Maxwell Schaeffer and Amy Sweet, who exited the station earlier this year. He posts a message to Facebook saying, in part, “Iowans are all about connecting with each other and WHO Radio has always been at the heart of that. We’ll have conversations about the most important topics of the day, and we’ll share a few laughs along the way.”

Industry News

WBNS-FM, Columbus Extends Browns Broadcast Deal

Tegna’s sports talk WBNS-FM, Columbus “97.1 The Fan” and the NFL’s Cleveland Browns announce aim multi-year extension to air Browns games on The Fan through the 2026 NFL season. In addition to the games, “The Fan” will continue to carry “Cleveland Browns Weekend,” “The Cleveland Browns Preview Show” and “The Kevin Stefanski Show.” During the season, “The Fan” will carry the two-hour “Browns Radio Network Pregame Show” as well as the two-hour “Browns Radio Network Postgame Show.”

Industry News

TuneIn Brings Audio to Discord

TuneIn and Discord announce an agreement that will have the former bring music, podcasts, news, and live radio to the Discord platform. The new ‘TuneIn Radio & Podcasts’ Activity will make it easy to shareim listening experiences with friends on Discord with a huge assortment of free audio to add to hangouts or play in the background. TuneIn CEO Rich Stern says, “We’re thrilled to bring TuneIn to the millions of people who use Discord daily to connect and build friendships through audio. This launch underscores our commitment to provide listeners with access to high-quality audio content wherever they are. To be the first audio partner of this kind on the platform is a testament to our continued investment in innovation to power listening experiences everywhere.”

Industry News

Eric Bolling Exits Newsmax

Newsmax journalist and show host Eric Bolling announce that Bolling is leaving the network. In a joint statement, they say, “After working together for three years to produce, present, and break news for the Americanim people, it’s time for Eric to embark on new endeavors. Eric and Newsmax are grateful for their time together and proud of the work they have produced.” Bolling’s program The Balance aired at 8:00 pm ET. Newsmax has replaced his show with its Prime News show with a rotating cast of hosts for the interim until a permanent replacement is named.

Industry News

Audacy Stations Collect 20 Regional Murrow Awards

Audacy radio stations in 11 markets were the recipients of 20 Regional Edward R. Murrow Awards, presented by the Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) for outstanding achievements inim broadcast and digital journalism. NewsRadio 1080 KRLD in Dallas, WWJ Newsradio 950 in Detroit, KNX News 97.1 FM in Los Angeles and WCBS 880 in New York all were honored with the “Overall Excellence” Award. Other stations receiving Regional Murrow Awards include: KMOX, St. Louis (Newscast); KYW-AM/FM, Philadelphia (Newscast, Digital, Hard News); WWL-AM/FM, New Orleans (Breaking News, Continuing Coverage); and WCCO, Minneapolis (Newscast). See the full list of winners here.