Industry News

Beasley Launches Florida Sports Talker

Beasley Media Group transitions WJBR-AM, Tampa from “Podcast Radio US” to sports talk as “Florida Alumni Radio.” Beasley says the “new sports-focused station is designed exclusively for Florida sports fans,img with a spotlight on alumni pride and community connection.” The station is featuring the syndicated “Miller and Moulton Morning Show” starring Mark Miller and David Moulton. Beasley Tampa VP and market manager Ron deCastro says, “Florida Alumni Radio is more than a station – it’s a destination for Florida sports fans and alumni to come together and celebrate the teams and traditions they love. We’re proud to provide a platform that not only delivers great sports content, but also connects alumni, students, and fans across the Tampa Bay community in a meaningful way.” The station will also serve as the exclusive home for USF Athletics content.

Industry News

“ESPN Chicago” Unveils New Program Schedule

Good Karma Brands’ WMVP-AM “ESPN Chicago” revamps its program schedule as it adds the nationally syndicated Rich Eisen Show to the midday daypart. Effective September 2, the lineup will be as follows:img ESPN Radio’s “Unsportsmanlike” starring Evan Cohen, Chris Canty and Michelle Smallmon from 5:00 am to 6:00 am; “Kap and J. Hood” from 6:00 am to 9:00 am; “Carmen and Jurko” from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon; Rich Eisen from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm; “Bleck and Abdalla” from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm; and “Waddle and Silvy” from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. ESPN Chicago director of content Danny Zederman states, “Our lineup has never been stronger. Adding a powerhouse like Rich Eisen to our midday slot not only gives our fans one of the most respected voices in sports, but we’ve also expanded our local content with an uninterrupted hour of ‘Bleck and Abdalla.’ This combination of national and local perspectives makes us the go-to station for sports fans in Chicago.”

Industry Views

Could Your Own Podcast Become Your AI Competitor?

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

mattybharrisonImagine a listener “talking” to an AI version of you – trained entirely on your old episodes. The bot knows your cadence, your phrases, even your voice. It sounds like you, but it isn’t you.

This isn’t science fiction. With enough content, it’s technically feasible today. A determined developer could transcribe archives, fine-tune a language model, and overlay a cloned voice. The result wouldn’t be perfect, but it would be recognizable.

Whether that’s legal is another question – one circling directly around fair use.

Why It Matters

For most content creators, archives are their most valuable asset. Yet many contracts with networks, distributors, or hosting platforms quietly grant broad rights to use recordings in “new technologies.” That language, once ignored, could be the legal hook to justify training without your permission.

Fair use is the fallback defense. Tech companies argue training is transformative – they aren’t re-broadcasting your show, only using it to teach a machine. But fair use also weighs market harm. If “AI You” pulls listeners or sponsors away from the real thing, that argument weakens considerably.

Not Just Theory

Other industries are already here. AI has generated convincing tracks of Frank Sinatra singing pop hits and “new” stories written in the style of Jane Austen. If that can be done with a few books or albums, thousands of podcast episodes provide more than enough material to train a “host model.”

Talk media is especially vulnerable because its product is already conversational. The line between “fan remix” and “AI imitation” isn’t as wide as it seems.

What You Can Do

This isn’t about panic – it’s about preparation.

— Review your contracts: confirm you own your recordings and transcripts.
— Register your work: enforceable rights are stronger rights.
— Decide your stance: licensing your archives for training might be an opportunity – if you control it.
— Emphasize authenticity: audiences still value the human behind the mic.

The Takeaway

Could your podcast be turned into your competitor? Yes, in theory. Will it happen to you? That depends on your contracts, your protections, and the choices you make.

Fair use may ultimately decide these battles, but “fair” is not the same as safe. Consider this example a reminder: in the AI era, your archive is not just history – it is raw material.

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

Industry News

iHeartMedia Portland Renews with Trail Blazers

The Portland Trail Blazers and iHeartMedia Portland announce a multi-year agreement to their partnership as the official broadcast carrier for Trail Blazers games across the Trail Blazers Audio Network. As part of theimg deal, KPOJ-AM “Rip City Radio 620 AM” continues as the flagship station. Travis Demers enters his seventh full season as the team’s radio play-by-play announcer with Michael Holton as color commentator and Rip City Radio’s Chad Doing hosting both pre- and post-game shows.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Marketing/Promotions Coordinator

Lotus Seattle is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented marketing/promotions coordinator. Lotus says, “Thisimg role is vital to bringing our brand to life through on-air, digital, and community engagement initiatives. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working with people, and bring creative energy to our promotions and marketing efforts. See more about this position and apply here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (8/20)

The most discussed stories yesterday (8/20) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Russia-Ukraine War Negotiations
2. Texas Redistricting
3. Fed Policy-Trump Demands Cook Resign
4. ODNI Cuts
5. Federal Takeover of DC

Industry News

Good Karma Names Lam “ESPN LA” Market Manager

Good Karma Brands promotes Tommy Lam to market manager for KSPN-AM “ESPN Los Angeles.” Lam previously served as general sales manager and senior director of marketing. Good Kama SVP Sam Pinesimg says, “Tommy’s deep roots in the Los Angeles media landscape, combined with his passion for building brands and connecting with the community, make him the ideal leader for ‘ESPN LA.’ He has excelled at leading teammates across sales, marketing, and support, serving as a strong conduit between those areas and the content team. His proven track record of innovation and results will continue to elevate the brand’s reach and impact with fans and partners.” Lam comments, “I am honored to take on this role and continue building on ESPN LA’s momentum. Los Angeles is one of the most dynamic sports markets in the world, and I’m excited to work with our talent team to deliver outstanding experiences for our fans, partners and teammates.”

Industry News

KTKZ, Sacramento Helps Draw Crowd to Protest California Bill

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

Industry News

Katz Dog to Raise Funds for Virginia Special Olympics

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WRVA, Richmond afternoon drive talk host Jeff Katz (pictured above) has a hot dog dish named after him at the Texas Inn diner (known to locals as The T-Room) in Richmond. Each sale of the Katz Dog – a Nathan’s hot dog – will provide a donation to Special Olympics Virginia.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (8/19)

The most discussed stories yesterday (8/19) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Russia-Ukraine War Meetings
2. Trump vs Smithsonian
3. Guard Troops in DC-Crime Stats Challenge
4. Texas & California Redistricting
5. Security Clearance Revocations

Industry Views

The Annual (Radio Station) Physical

By Jonathan Little
TroyResearch
President

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

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

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

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

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

Political Affiliation

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

In car listening

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

Listening to WTAQ, which simulcasts

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

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

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

Your primary news source

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

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

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

Do you listen to podcasts?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Industry News

Nielsen: Podcasts Make Up 19% of Ad-Supported Audio Listening

Nielsen releases its latest Podcasting Today report that reveals a number of things including that podcasts represent about one-fifth (19%) of daily ad-supported audio listening time – second only to radio in theimg U.S. Other takeaways include: Listeners aged 18-34 spend 32% of their daily ad-supported audio time with podcasts; and podcasts consistently drive top funnel advertising impact. Nielsen says its Podcast Brand Impact Database draws on nearly 2,000 case studies and shows that podcast ads continue to drive strong brand awareness, motivate listeners to learn more, and purchase products. See the full report here.

Industry News

Report: Stern and SiriusXM Agreeing to Extension

According to a report from Yahoo Entertainment, Howard Stern appears to have struck a new deal to remain with SiriusXM. This comes a couple of weeks after reports indicated that Stern and the satcasterimg would go their separate ways when his current contract ends later this year. The Yahoo story says, “A source affirmed that everything is a done deal in this regard, and all previous reports of him exiting the company were pure fallacy, per RadarOnline. The man of the hour himself also dropped a big hint on his social media, teasing an answer to all the questions hovering around his career very soon.” Stern’s own Instagram account posted the following: “Now we can reveal that all the questions will be answered. All the truths will be told by the one man truly on the inside: Howard Stern will speak. Tuesday, September 2.” Read the Yahoo story here.

Industry News

NPR Remains Atop Triton Digital Podcast Ranker

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

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (8/18)

The most discussed stories yesterday (8/18) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Trump-Zelensky-EU Meeting
2. More Guard Troops to DC
3. The Epstein Files
4. Trump on Mail-In and Voting Machines
5. Newsmax-Dominion Settlement

Industry News

Newsmax Settles with Dominion Voting; Claims a Fair Trial Was Impossible

Newsmax Media, Inc announces it has reached a settlement agreement with Dominion Voting Systems in which it will pay $67 million over three years to resolve the suit. The suit revolved around Newsmax’s coverage of the 2020 presidential election in which Dominion claimed certain statements made byimg Newsmax were defamatory. However, Newsmax is not admitting guilt; just the opposite. “Newsmax believed it was critically important for the American people to hear both sides of the election disputes that arose in 2020. We stand by our coverage as fair, balanced, and conducted within professional standards of journalism.” The company says Delaware Court Judge Eric Davis would not provide a fair trial wherein the company could present standard libel defenses to a jury. Newsmax CEO Christopher Ruddy says, “The Delaware Court under Judge Davis effectively enforced a confiscation of our property because our reporting was not always sympathetic to Joe Biden. The actions taken against Newsmax, and earlier against FOX News, represent a direct attack on free speech and a free press.”

Industry News

Missanelli’s Exit from “The Fanatic” Appears to Be Budget Related

Philadelphia sports talk host Mike Missanelli was abruptly let go from Beasley Media Group’s sports talkimg WPEN-FM 97.5 The Fanatic on August 8 after almost a year back behind the mic at the station. Missanelli joined sister rock WMMR’s Kathy Romano – a cast member of the “Steve and Preston Show” – was also let go. Beasley issued the following public statement: “We are very grateful for his contributions to the station and our listeners, and we wish him all the best.”

Industry News

KSPN-AM, Los Angeles Extends Rams Coverage

Good Karma Brands’ KSPN-AM “ESPN Los Angeles” extends its partnership with the NFL’s Los Angeleskspn am Rams. ESPN LA VP and market manager Sam Pines says, “The Los Angeles Rams are one of the most exciting and dynamic franchises in the NFL, and we are proud to be their partner and the radio home. This partnership allows us to deliver unmatched access, exclusive content, and the passionate game-day energy Rams fans deserve on the radio, online, on our app, and everywhere else they connect with us and our talent.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend (8/16-17)

The most discussed stories over the weekend on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Trump-Putin Meeting
2. Guard Troops in DC
3. Texas & California Redistricting
4. The Epstein Files
5. ICE Raids

Industry News

PBS cutting its budget by 21%

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According to a report in The New York Times (8/14) by writer Ben Mullin, PBS is cutting its current budget by more than a fifth in response to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting’s defunding. The cutback is in reaction to the fact that approximately 15% of PBS’s budget derived from the federal grants are about to be slashed per Congressional decision. This move eliminates roughly $500 million in federal funding from public radio and television. This is having a negative rippling impact on the entire PBS local station system. Read the entire NYTimes report here.

Industry News

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

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

Stories

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

People

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

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

Industry News

WGN Hosts Bob Sirott and John Records Landecker Return with Special Friday Three-Hour Friday Night Radio Nostalgia Show (8/15)

Bob Sirott and John Landecker WGN

WGN, Chicago announced today (8/14) its hosts Bob Sirott (left) and John Records Landecker (right) will return for another night of radio nostalgia. Back by popular demand, “For Radio Geeks Only,” sponsored by Apple Chevy, is expanded to a three-hour show airing on Friday, August 15 from 7:00 to 10:00 pm.Sirott and Landecker first united in July for an hour’s show, reminiscing about their days as music DJs.img “Listeners to our first ‘For Radio Geeks Only’ special told us they wantematthewd more – and John and I did, too! We’re glad to bring it back with an even longer show this time,” said Bob Sirott.  Go back to the days before streaming, cable, VCRs, DVDs, and smartphones when rock ‘n’ roll radio was a source of entertainment. Sirott and Landecker will play their favorite jingles and will be joined by special guests, including 1960s disc jockeys Ron Riley and Spike O’Dell, one of WGN Radio’s very own. Listeners are being encouraged to call or text the station at 312-981-7200 to share their stories of listening to radio and records. The show will be available as a podcast on wgnradio.com.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (8/13)

The most discussed stories yesterday (8/13) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:
1. Trump-Putin Meeting / Israel-Gaza War
2. Trump Tariffs / DC National Guard Deployment
3. ICE Raids
4. Texas Redistricting
5. Epstein Files / Lincoln Center

Industry Views

Who Said That? A Practical Guide to Voice Imitation Risk

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

imgArtificial intelligence now makes it possible to replicate a human voice with striking accuracy. For broadcasters, podcasters, and content creators, the central question is: When does using or imitating a voice become a legal problem? The answer depends on the person being imitated, the purpose of the use, and the rights attached to that voice. Below is a six-bucket framework to help evaluate the risk.

Bucket 1 – Human Imitation of a Living Person
Example: In Midler v. Ford Motor Co. (1988), Ford hired a singer to imitate Bette Midler’s voice for a commercial after she declined. Legal focus: Right of publicity, false endorsement, misappropriation of identity. Risk: High – especially for commercial use without parody or commentary.

Bucket 2 – AI Cloning of a Living Person
Example: AI trained on hours of a broadcaster’s work generates new scripts in that broadcaster’s voice. Legal focus: Same as Bucket 1, plus emerging AI laws in several states. Risk: Very high – AI makes imitation faster, more precise, and harder to defend as coincidental.

Bucket 3 – AI Cloning of a Deceased Person Within Post-Mortem Publicity Window
Example: An AI-generated George Carlin special, written by humans but performed in a Carlin voice model. Legal focus: Post-mortem right of publicity, lasting 20–100 years depending on the state. Risk: High without estate authorization, even if marketed as a tribute.

Bucket 4 – Historical/Public Domain Figures
Example: Voicing George Washington in an original script. Legal focus: Minimal – rights generally end at death and do not extend for centuries. Risk: Low unless portrayal implies a false endorsement of a current product or service.

Bucket 5 – Corporate Library Owner Using AI to Create New Content
Example: A company acquires a complete host archive, such as Howard Stern’s, and uses AI to create new programming in that voice. Legal focus: Copyright in recordings is separate from publicity rights in the voice. Owning the archive does not automatically permit new performances in that voice. Risk: High without explicit contractual rights to name, likeness, and voice for future works.

Bucket 6 – Inspired-By Voice Not Clearly Identifiable as a Specific Person
Example: An AI voice styled as “a gravelly, old-school talk radio host” without matching a real person. Legal focus: Minimal unless resemblance convinces listeners it is a specific individual. Risk: Low to moderate, depending on closeness to a real identity.

Decision Path
Before using a recognizable voice, ask: 1. Is the person living or deceased? 2. If deceased, are they within their state’s post-mortem publicity period? 3. Is the voice a deliberate imitation? 4. Do you have written permission? 5. Is the purpose parody, commentary, or other transformative use?

Takeaways
Talent: Protect your voice rights in contracts, including AI uses. Buyers: Archive ownership does not guarantee the right to generate new voice content. Creators: Parody and commentary may help, but they are not blanket defenses. As voice cloning becomes more accessible, securing clear rights before production remains the safest path. The cost of permission is almost always less than the cost of defending a lawsuit.

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

Industry News

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

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

Please click here for full survey results.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (8/12)

The most discussed stories yesterday (8/12) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:
1. Trump Tariffs / DC National Guard Deployment
2. Forthcoming Trump-Putin Meeting / Israel-Gaza War
3. ICE Raids / Texas Target Shooting
4. Texas Redistricting
5. Epstein Files

Industry News

Ed Herman Joins Big Toe Media, LLC as Partner in Ownership of KLIS Radio, St. Louis

KLIS
 

St. Louis-based Big Toe Media, LLC, the recently launched media company behind The Lou Information Station (KLIS 590 AM), has announced that Ed Herman, managing partner of Brown & Crouppen Law Firm, has officially joined the company as a partner (8/12).  The company tells TALKERS that Herman, a prominent voice in the St. Louis legal and media communities, brings with him a wealth of experience in brand development, audience engagement, and community impact. Herman’s investment in Big Toe Media signals a bold step forward in the company’s mission to reshape local talk radio and digital content.  “Ed has been part of building one of the most recognizable brands in St. Louis through innovation and an unwavering focus on connecting with people,” says Dave Greene, cofounder of Big Toe Media. “His belief in our vision—and his decision to invest in it—gives us the momentum and credibility to take KLIS to the next level.”  KLIS 590 AM, now branded as The Lou Information Station, is being reimagined as a locally driven platform for talk radio, live video streaming, podcasts, and real-time digital engagement. Programming focuses on the people and stories that matter most to the St. Louis region. “I’ve always believed in using media to empower and inform,” says Herman. “While I’ll continue serving as managing partner at Brown & Crouppen, joining Big Toe Media gives me the chance to be part of something that’s not just entertaining – but truly meaningful. This is local media done right.”  With Herman on board, Big Toe Media plans to continue expanding original programming, investing in local talent, and creating new advertising and sponsorship opportunities that serve both listeners and the region’s business community.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (8/11)

The most discussed stories yesterday (8/11) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Trump Tariffs / DC National Guard Deployment
2. Forthcoming Trump-Putin Meeting
3. Israel-Gaza War
4. Texas Redistricting
5. Epstein Files

Industry News

FCC Commissioner Gomez Issues Scathing Statement on Paramount-Skydance Merger

FCC Commissioner Anna M. Gomez has made no secret of the fact that she’s horrified not by the merger itself but with Paramount’s acquiescence to the Trump Administration in seeking approval to merge with Skydance. Here is her statement in full: “Today marks the final chapter of a dark moment in our nation’s history. After months of cowardly capitulation, including an unprecedented payout to settle a meritless lawsuit in exchange for regulatory approval, Paramount and Skydance have completed their merger, and ‘New Paramount’ will be created.

“This will be a new company, born in shame after trading away fundamental First Amendment principles inimg pursuit of pure profit. It embraced this Administration’s radical notion that discriminatory behavior should be tolerated and even embraced, while efforts to expand opportunity for everyone should be rejected.

“More alarmingly, the company agreed to never-before-seen forms of government control over newsroom decisions and editorial judgment – actions that violate both the First Amendment and the law. A government-sanctioned ‘truth arbiter’ will soon arrive at CBS. Their role will be to ensure that journalists at CBS do not criticize this Administration or express views that conflict with its agenda. That should alarm anyone who values the core democratic principle of a free and independent press.

“All of this is being carried out under the guise of combating so-called ‘media bias,’ a term which, in practice, appears to encompass anything or anyone who disagrees with this Administration. Never mind that those now feigning concern over media bias are the same individuals who have spent the past decade attacking the press and sowing public distrust in journalism. And even if such bias did exist to the extent they claim, the last entity the American people should entrust with defining or policing it is the federal government.

“Sadly, this will not be the end of this Administration’s campaign of intervention in media to silence critics, gain favorable coverage, and impose ideological conformity on newsrooms that should remain independent. With longstanding institutions like CBS compromised in this way, it will be up to us – as citizens – to hold this Administration accountable for its abuses.

“I urge others to take notice and find their courage. And I will continue to call out cowardly corporate capitulation for what it is: a betrayal – not just of journalistic independence, but of the public trust.

“Because if the First Amendment is to mean anything at all, it must mean that no government –regardless of party – gets to decide what is true, who gets heard, or which voices are silenced.”

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Topics That Tune-Them-In

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

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

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

Lifestyle & Purpose

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

Health & Wellness

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

Financial Confidence

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

im

Freedom & Adventure

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

Home & Relationships

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

Learning & Creativity

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

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

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend (8/9-10)

The most discussed stories over the weekend on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Tariffs Go into Effect
2. Deadly CDC Shooting
3. Trump Federal Takeover of DC
4. Trump-Putin Meeting
5. Israel’s Gaza City Takeover

Industry News

Audacy Flips WSFS, Miramar to Sports

Audacy flips alternative WSFS-FM, Miramar, Florida – between Miami and Fort Lauderdale – to a simulcast of its Miami sports talker WQAM and is petitioning the FCC to change the calls to WQAM-FM.img The station is at 104.3 FM and boasts a 100,000-watt signal. Audacy regional president Claudia Menegus says, “Miami’s sports fans have an unrivaled passion, and they deserve a destination that matches their energy. By adding this powerful FM signal, we’re not just expanding our reach – we’re solidifying WQAM’s position as the undisputed leader in South Florida sports radio.” The weekday lineup consists of “The Joe Rose Show with Hollywood” (6:00 am to 10:00 am), “Tobin & Leroy” (10:00 am to 2:00 pm) and “Hochman, Crowder & Solana” (2:00 pm to 6:00 pm).