Industry News

Regarding Dominion, “Newsmax Acted Differently Than FOX”

This week’s settlement between Dominion Voting Systems and FOX News puts one chapter of post-2020 election litigation to bed, but Dominion (as well as competitor Smartmatic) has other defamation suits pending, including one against Newsmax. The news organization itself reports on the pending case and, in a piece by Marisa Herman, lays out the argument that there are stark differences between the FOX News case and its own. She cites a February 2, 2021 appearance by Mike Lindell on Newsmax TV during which anchor Bob Sellers vehemently challenges Lindell’s allegations of voter manipulation, to the point of walking off the set in frustration. The story also notes Newsmax’s defense as laid out in court filings. The company says, “It reported fairly and accurately on the public statements made by President Trump, his attorneys, and surrogates; It had a right to report on statements made by public figures, including the president; Newsmax reported on both television and online claims by multiple officials and experts that the election was not ‘stolen’ or ‘rigged.’; Newsmax reached out to Dominion, and Dominion did not accept offers to appear on the network; Newsmax published online at least a dozen articles sharing Dominion’s response to Trump campaign claims. Those headlines appeared on Newsmax TV; On Dec. 19, 2020, Newsmax published to its website a statement, ‘Facts About Dominion, Smartmatic You Should Know,’ which read, in part, ‘No evidence has been offered that Dominion or Smartmatic used software or reprogrammed software that manipulated votes in the 2020 election.’; Newsmax shared its statement over the course of months during segments related and unrelated to the 2020 election.” Finally, Newsmax adds, “It should be noted that FOX News has never made a statement, even after its settlement, as strong and specific as Newsmax’s statement of Dec. 19, 2021.”

Industry News

Larry Elder Announces Bid for White House on FOX News

Yesterday evening (4/21), attorney and talk media personality Larry Elder announced he’s throwing his hat into the ring for the GOP nomination for president in 2024. Elder, a former Salem Radio Network nationally syndicated talk radio host who has been hosting a video talk show for The Epoch Times, was the top GOP vote-getter in the unsuccessful recall election of California Governor Gavin Newsom in September of 2021. Now, Elder has his sights set on the White House and explains why in his mission statement. “America is in decline, but this decline is not inevitable. It is a choice made by detached and cynical politicians. As a California resident, I’ve seen firsthand how decades of Democrat rule have turned the Golden State, for many, into an unaffordable dystopia. I won’t let them do the same to America. We can enter a new American Golden Age, but we must choose a leader who can bring us there. That’s why I’m running for President.”

Industry News

“95.5 WSB” Names Morning Host; Shuffles Afternoon and Late Morning Talent

Cox Media Group’s news/talk WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta “95.5 WSB” announces that Chris Chandler (left) is named the host of “Atlanta’s Morning News,” airing daily from 5:00 am to 9:00 am. Chandler, a longtime afternoon drive anchor, takes over for Scott Slade, who announced he would step away from the program earlier this year. At the same time, the station moves host Mark Arum (center) from afternoon drive to the 9:00 am to 12:00 noon daypart and “The Von Haessler Doctrine” hosted by Eric Von Haessler (right) shifts to the 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm slot. Station director of branding and programming Ken Charles comments, “‘95.5 WSB’ has such a deep roster of talent, and I’m excited to promote Chris to this new role. As part of the process, we took the time to examine the entire station lineup. Additionally, we asked our audience what they expected from WSB. These changes reflect those expectations and leverage our local stars to position the station for the future.” About his new role, Chander says, “It is the honor of a career to step into one of the great heritage radio news programs in the country. Scott Slade can’t be replaced, but I’m committed to maintaining the integrity, consistency, and fairness he brought ‘Atlanta’s Morning News’ over his legendary run.”

Industry News

Dan Bongino’s FOX News Show Ends

As reported by the AP, FOX News and talk media personality Dan Bongino have parted ways. Bongino’s relationship with FOX News goes back almost 10 years. The former cop and Secret Service agent has been a commentator on FOX and has hosted the Saturday night show “Unfiltered” since 2021, as well as the “Canceled in the USA” program on FOX Nation. Bongino said on his radio show and podcast that they just couldn’t agree on a new deal. “It’s not some big conspiracy. There’s no acrimony. This wasn’t like some WWE brawl that happened. We just couldn’t come to terms on an extension.” The report indicates Bongino may even make guest appearances on FOX in the future. Read the full story here.

Industry News

Darlene Hill Named Afternoon Co-Host at WVON, Chicago

Midway Broadcasting announces that Chicago journalist and former WFLD-TV “FOX 32 Chicago” anchor Darlene Hill is named permanent co-host on news/talk WVON-AM’s “Afternoons with Buchanan & Hill” alongside Atiba Buchanan. Hill takes over for Kimberly Egonmwan who left the show to run for political office. WVON says, “Hill is a 30-year veteran journalist and a fixture in Chicago media. Her knowledge of local stakeholders, politics, and social issues makes her an asset to WVON’s news/talk format.” Hill adds, “WVON has such a rich history of being a force and a voice in Chicago this just seems right. I look forward to being part of the next generation of storytellers.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Townsquare Media, Inc announces that it will release first quarter 2023 financial results before the market opens on Wednesday, May 10. The company will host a conference call to discuss certain first quarter 2023 financial results that same day at 8:00 am Eastern Time.

SiriusXM announces its coverage of the 2023 NFL Draft, which will feature live announcements of every selection from every round and in-depth analysis on the SiriusXM NFL Radio channel. The broadcast team will be anchored by Jason Horowitz. SiriusXM’s expert analysts all three days will be former NFL scout, coach and front-office executive Pat Kirwan, former NFL quarterback Jim Miller and former coach Rick Neuheisel.

Industry News

“New Jersey 101.5” Holds Town Hall on Gun Laws

This evening (4/20) at 7:00 pm, Townsquare Media news/talk WKXW-FM, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” is presenting “On Target – Understanding New Jersey’s Gun Laws” – a Town Hall-style discussion designed to examine what the station calls “New Jersey’s changing and often confusing gun laws.” Station senior political director Eric Scott leads a discussion that will explain how the law applies to gun ownership in New Jersey as well as the responsibility of gun owners. He says, “We get many questions about gun owners and gun laws. This program will not debate the merits of the law, but rather how the law applies in New Jersey.” His guests will include: South Brunswick police chief Ray Hayducka, attorney and former Morris County prosecutor Robert Bianchi, and former military firearms instructor Dan Graber. Listeners will also be able to call in and ask specific questions about New Jersey’s gun laws.

Industry Views

Better Than a Tornado – What You Can Control

By Walter Sabo
Consultant, Sabo Media
A.K.A. Walter Sterling
Radio Host, Sterling on Sunday

The whining is non-stop. Many in radio mourn the advent of consolidation, corporate dictates, staff cuts. They miss the way the industry was – before.

A few reminders about – before. Half the radio stations in the U.S. lost money. Voice tracking? Yes, it was called automation, analog automation and it was a technical nightmare. The meta forces that control our industry today were not created by your current boss. They were created by irresponsible venture capitalists who only looked at the fifth-year projections. A budget projected to the fifth year is at best a guess, but it is most probably a lie.

What can you control? If you are a host, you can control your next show. If you are a program director, you can control your next promo, next break, next collection of shows. You control the product and that makes you the most powerful person in the radio ecosystem. You control the product. Let’s improve the product right now. Listeners know or believe that all radio is live. Live means surprises, the unexpected, the urgent!

— Prep the surprises. Rather than sourcing the New York PostDaily Mail and your local newspaper, try throwing them away for just a day and tap brand new, unexpected sources. Search “Siberia news” and “Alaska news.”  You will be stunned at the unique menu of stories and fresh material. Surprise! Did you know the biggest challenge in Siberia is rampant forest fires? How about the fact that melting permafrost has given up well preserved woolly mammoths and new breeds of humanoids? Live means surprise.

— Build the stage. Your station or network has a vast, digital production library that you don’t use. Take the time to sit with that library for a whole day and let your creativity explore the sounds and SFX. You will discover new beds, sounders and dramatic effects to build your show’s image and present the unexpected. Already use production? Scrap it and start fresh.

— Water in the basement is the most urgent news in a listener’s life. Not the debt ceiling or January 6. Water in the basement! Other urgent news is: The moving van is two days late. The mother in-law is speaking. Logan died on “Succession.” Give yourself permission to talk about what happened to you over the weekend rather than what happened in Washington, DC.

Your current list of topics is old news, no surprises, nothing urgent. Stop, it’s not working. The typical talk radio topics reach people who typically cannot stand up to change the dial. Surprises, the unexpected and the urgent could boost the survival probability of the AM band — better than a tornado.

Walter Sabo was the youngest Executive Vice President in the history of NBC. The youngest VP in the history of ABC. He was a consultant to RKO General longer than Bill Drake. Walter was the in house consultant to Sirius for eight years. He has never written a resume. Contact him at walter@sabomedia.com. or mobile 646-678-1110. Hear Walter Sterling at www.waltersterlingshow.comMeet Walter Sabo at TALKERS 2023 on Friday, June 2.

Industry News

Ramsey Network’s Brian Mayfield Retires

Ramsey Solutions announces that Brian Mayfield – a 15-year staffer who spent the past five years as executive vice president of Ramsey Network – retires from the company. The company says that under Mayfield’s leadership “The Ramsey Show” has grown into the second-largest syndicated talk radio show in America with 640 radio affiliate stations, more than 1 billion podcast downloads and over a billion YouTube views. Dave Ramsey says, “Over the last 15 years, Brian Mayfield has truly become one of the top talk radio executives in the nation and a good friend while he has been with Ramsey Solutions. His early retirement is a loss for all of us at Ramsey and the industry.” Mayfield states, “It has been an honor to work alongside Dave and the rest of the team. I am very proud of the success we have seen to date, but I am even more excited to watch and experience the success of Ramsey Network into the future as a fan. We are sometimes faced with situations that dictate change, I’m embracing mine and looking forward to quality time with my wife and family — I’m truly blessed.” Broadcast veteran Blake Thompson, Ramsey’s first producer when the show began, was named executive vice president of Ramsey Network last year. He will continue to serve in that role.

Industry News

New York Festivals Radio Awards Announces 2023 Winners

The 2023 winners of the New York Festivals Radio Awards were announced yesterday, and the BBC was named Broadcaster of the Year, while HarperCollins Publishers was honored as Radio Production Company of the Year. NY Festivals says, “Creative audio entries from storytellers around the globe captivated listeners and were recognized by the 2023 Radio Award Grand Jury. Winning entries include podcasts and audiobooks, masterful dramas, and documentaries, up-to-the-minute news coverage, entertainment, and music specials all created by world renowned storytellers.” New York Festivals Storyteller’s Gala honored “The Kalb Report” with the 13th annual New York Festivals Lifetime Achievement Award. For nearly 30 years “The Kalb Report,” moderated by eminent journalist Marvin Kalb, has provided a forum for prominent newsmakers and journalists to discuss the news media’s impact on American democracy. “Start Here” by ABC News in the News Podcast category earned the inaugural National Press Club Award. The new award launched in 2023, in partnership with the National Press Club, goes to the highest scoring entry in the following news program categories: Best Coverage of Breaking News Story, Best Coverage of Ongoing News Story, Best Nonfiction Series, and News Podcast. Other U.S.-based audio companies winning gold awards in this year’s competition include: ESPN in three podcast categories, iHeartMedia/Katie Couric Media in the Narrative/Documentary Podcast category, and SiriusXM for Best Editing. See the complete winners gallery here.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Beasley Media Group chief technology officer Mike Cooney received the 2023 NAB Radio Engineering Achievement Award on stage during the “We Are Broadcasters” session on Tuesday, April 18 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Established in 1959, the Radio and Television Engineering Achievement Awards are given to individuals who are nominated by their peers for significant contributions to advancing broadcast engineering.

iHeartMedia, Inc will issue financial results for the first quarter of 2023 on Tuesday, May 2. The company will conduct a conference call at 8:30 am ET, following the release of its earnings announcement to discuss its financial results and business outlook. A live audio webcast of the call will be available on the Investors homepage of iHeartMedia’s website.

Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc will report its 2023 first quarter financial results before the market opens on Wednesday, April 26. The company will host a conference call and webcast at 11:00 am ET that morning to review the results.

Industry News

Charly Arnolt Joins Outkick

OutKick announces that sports media personality Charly Arnolt leaves ESPN to join Outkick as co-host of a new program that is currently in development. Outkick says that Arnolt will also be “featured across OutKick platforms to discuss trending topics and to provide her authentic takes on the most pressing stories in sports.” In addition to her work with ESPN, Arnolt has been a host for WWE and is currently a reporter for UFC events. Outkick founder Clay Travis says, “Charly is an outstanding talent and will be a great asset for OutKick. It doesn’t surprise me she wanted to leave ESPN given their woke approach to sports and this is a great opportunity for her to join a platform that’s growing fast where she can speak her mind.” Arnolt says, “I’m extremely excited to join OutKick and work alongside Clay and a great stable of talent. The outspoken nature of the platform and its ability to create engaging content is what really piqued my interest. I have a lot of opinions that I haven’t been able to express, and I can’t wait get started.”

Industry Views

Monday Memo: NAB Show 2023

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

The first thing we heard was an earful from NAB president & CEO Curtis LeGeyt regarding automakers dropping AM receivers from new cars: “This is an issue we consider to be absolutely existential.”

Quoting Nielsen’s Fall 2022 survey results, Cumulus/Westwood One chief insights officer Pierre Bouvard ticked-off what he called “82 million reasons to keep AM radio in cars”

— 82,346,800 Americans listen to AM radio monthly.

— One out of three American radio listeners are reached monthly by AM radio.

— 57% of the AM radio audience listens to news/talk stations, the very outlets that Americans turn to in times of crisis and breaking local news.

 

As he presented “The State of Media, Audio and Marketing,” attendees were screen-shooting every slide in Pierre’s deck, so he offered to share (PBouvard@WestwoodOne.com). This must-see data explains and validates what he calls “The Two Jobs of Marketing: Converting Existing Demand and Creating Future Demand,” powerful ammo station reps can use to nudge advertisers who only tout special sales to instead use radio on-an-ongoing-basis.

— “If an apple orchard represents a brand’s entire customer base, converting existing demand = picking ripe apples (customers that are ‘in market’).” Those are, for instance, what he called the “3% who are looking to buy a car right now,” who will respond to the dealer’s caricature sale spots. As for the other 97%…

“If an apple orchard represents a brand’s entire customer base, creating future demand = planting new trees. It takes time and patience for new trees to bear fruit.” Thus, the worth of “emotional messaging that is designed to stand out and be enjoyed by consumers, creating positive memories of our brand that will influence future purchase decisions.”

 

Help Wanted!

Two discussions I took part in during the Small-Medium Market Forum echoed a unison I’m hearing everywhere: Where do we find on-air talent and salespeople?

— In the talent roundtable Mike McVay led, participants tended to think-young, swapping ideas for identifying entry-level candidates, possibly now podcasting. Or think-older. One participant mentioned a retired schoolteacher, comfortably pensioned, now cheerfully on-air, working fewer than 40 hours.

— The part-timer’s opportunity also came up on the sales side, in a roundtable led by Midwest Communications’ president Peter Tanz. As with industry in general post-pandemic, flexible arrangements help. And Tanz urged “Use your air, with ‘more cowbell.’” Meaning not only advertise for sellers on-air (where you’ll be talking to people who know the station); and he also suggested airing Employee Recognition salutes, of off-air staffers, which make the station sound like an appreciative employer.

— I read attendees a Help Wanted-Sales spot that has been productive at client stations, which I’ll share with you too. Simply Email me at talkradio@hollandcooke.com

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author “Spot-On: Commercial Copy Points That Earned The Benjamins,” a FREE download; and the E-book and FREE on-air radio features Inflation Hacks: Save Those Benjamins;” and “Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books.  Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Cumulus Media announces that it will host a conference call on Thursday, April 27 at 8:30 am ET to discuss its first quarter 2023 operating results. A press release containing a summary of these results will be issued before the call at approximately 8:00 am ET.

PodcastOne announces that it has acquired the network distribution and advertising sales rights to the podcasts, “I’ve Had It” hosted by Jennifer Welch and Angie “Pumps” Sullivan, as well as “Causing a Scene with Sara and Natalie” hosted by Sara Gretzky and Natalie Buck.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Good Karma Brands’ Milwaukee radio stations are launching video stream capabilities. News/talk WTMJ, sports talk WKTI-FM “ESPN Milwaukee,” and talk WGKB-AM/W269DL “101.7 The Truth” will feature video streaming and repurposed video of each brands’ prime dayparts. They will be available on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter.

iHeartPodcasts and School of Humans debut “Sanctum Unmasked,” an eight-part podcast series that explores the secretive sex empire known as SNCTM. The series takes a nuanced, fun and comedic look into money, power and sex, set in the backdrop of Hollywood. It’s hosted by American writer, television host and producer Karley Sciortino, who is the founder of Slutever, a website that focuses on sex and sexuality.

Industry News

IAB: Digital Ad Revenue Growth Slows

The IAB publishes its IAB Internet Advertising Revenue Report: Full Year 2022 and concludes that “after record-breaking growth in 2021, internet advertising revenue has slowed but still delivered double-digit growth in 2022. Between 2021 and 2022, internet advertising revenues grew 10.8% year-over-year totaling $209.7 billion and overall revenues increased $20.4 billion YoY. Q1 saw the highest growth of 21.1% followed by Q2 at 11.8%, resulting in ad revenues for the first half of the year surpassing $100 billion for the first time. Revenues slowed in Q3 (8.4%) and Q4 (4.4%).” IAB CEO David Cohen comments, “After unprecedented growth in 2021, we expected more moderation in 2022. Economic uncertainty, geo-political unrest, a shifting regulatory environment and addressability changes have all contributed to revenue growing at a slower pace. Looking ahead, there is definitely still growth to be had, but it will be harder to achieve and likely less than we have become accustomed to.” Read more here.

Industry News

Dan Dakich Renews with Outkick

Sports talk personality Dan Dakich signs a multi-year contract to continue as the host of the daily “Don’t @ Me!” show for Outkick. Dakich, who previously hosted a show on Urban One’s sports talk WFNI-AM, Indianapolis “The Fan,” has been hosting the 9:00 am to 11:00 am show on OutKick.com and its social media platforms since 2021. Outkick founder Clay Travis says, “Dan has been instrumental in the success of OutKick and I’m thrilled to have him on board. Every day his high energy, humor, and bold opinions drive fans to the platform and create awareness of the great content produced by OutKick.” Dakich comments, “I’ve had so much fun hosting my show with OutKick and am excited to keep it rolling. The team is tremendous and allows me to not only speak my mind but shed light on the most compelling sports news of the day. I can’t thank OutKick enough for giving me this platform.”

Industry News

WFAN, New York Host Rick Wolff Dies

WFAN, New York listeners and the industry are mourning the passing of the station’s Sunday morning “The Sports Edge” host Rick Wolff, who died after a brief battle with brain cancer at age 71. Coverage of his death at NJ.com notes that Wolff was a Harvard graduate “with a master’s degree who dispensed common-sense advice to parents and coaches during his WFAN weekend show.” The family’s obit states, “To know Rick or Dad or Pops was to love him. He was wise, thoughtful, sharp, funny, incredibly smart, and truly just a wonderful person. In his honor, please remember to never give up on your dreams. He never did, even after so many of them had come true.” Read the NJ.com story here.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

RAB, BMI, and Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc announce that the 15th annual Rising Through the Ranks program is open for applications. It begins on August 1 with one virtual event from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm ET prior to the participants meeting in person August 8 – 10 in Nashville. As in years past, BMI will offer 20 scholarships for this year’s program. The scholarships will cover the cost of the professional development course, which is geared toward fostering and educating the current and emerging female radio managers in broadcast radio. MIW board president Ruth Presslaff says, “Rising Through the Ranks continues to be a foundational part of the professional development of so many women. It is a transformative experience that MIW is so proud to be part of, along with the RAB and BMI. It’s also a whole lot of fun. Once again, we encourage women to apply for this wonderful opportunity and stay focused on rising through this industry.”

WBUR announces that NPR’s Beijing correspondent Emily Feng is the winner of the 2022 Daniel Schorr Journalism Prize for her “The Black Gate” story that debuted on NPR’s “Up First” podcast. For the story, Feng worked with language rights activist Abduweli Ayup and producer Phoebe Wang to examine China’s treatment of Uyghurs and other Muslim groups by following one man’s quest to reunite with his wife and children who’ve been detained by Chinese authorities.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Emmis Communications CEO Jeff Smulyan will be interviewed by Skyview Networks CEO Steve Jones on Wednesday (4/12) at 7:00 pm ET as part of the “Great Minds, Great Conversations” series sponsored by Adelphi University. The live, one-hour free webinar will cover Smulyan’s expansive career as an entrepreneur who launched WFAN, New York – radio’s first all-sports talk station – joined the exclusive MLB owners’ circle by acquiring the Seattle Mariners, and built a TV station portfolio. He will reveal hard lessons learned that can benefit today’s entrepreneurs. You can register here.

SiriusXM’s says its bipartisan political and news channel tweaks its program schedule. It says, “With the 2024 presidential race already underway, host Laura Coates will now kick-off coverage of the day’s breaking news from SiriusXM’s Washington, D.C. studios, with host Julie Mason returning to afternoons on the newly rebranded ‘The Julie Mason Show.’ Coates, who also serves as CNN’s senior legal analyst and host of ‘CNN Tonight,’ will continue to use her prosecutorial skills to analyze the top stories from a legal perspective.” Sirius XM says Mason is a veteran Washington journalist in her 12th year with the company. It adds, “Mason’s program will feature interviews with a compelling mix of journalists, strategists, and other politicos, as well as politicians from both sides of the political aisle. Mason will also host regular Town Hall events from SiriusXM’s Washington studios, as well as other locations.”

Industry News

BOB and TOM’s Kristi Lee Engaged to Be Married

“The BOB and TOM Show” cast member Kristi Lee is engaged to be married to Andy Gilbert and, as is their wont, the rest of the cast toasted – and roasted – her after she announced the engagement on the nationally syndicated show. You can see the show segment on YouTube here.

Industry Views

How to Bounce Back and Get a Job

By Walter Sabo
Consultant, Sabo Media
A.K.A. Walter Sterling
Radio Host, Sterling on Sunday

A shocking number of highly qualified broadcasters have lost their jobs.  The venture capitalists that financed the big radio companies are the people who should be fired, but that’s the next column. Let’s get you a job.

When you lose a job there are three actions that will help you land the next job.

— For the first few days, say nothing. Don’t post on social media, don’t answer the phone. You will say something very wrong.

— Every word from you should be that the company that fired you is a great company and you were proud to be there.

— File for unemployment. It’s your money.

Get the Job

— Resumes are a waste of time. I’ve never written one. Focus on the exact job you want, identify the decision maker (which is never in HR) and study. Learn everything you can about the target company and their problems. Write a solution plan. Identify exactly how you can be of service to your potential employer.

— Go to the gym. Just go. A lifetime of pizza delivery doesn’t look great! Get busy. The busier you are the faster you’ll get the job you want. Goodwill, the Salvation Army, and Dollar Tree will hire you today. Get into the stream of work life, it will change your energy.

— In your solution plan, write out how you will help your new employer. The more knowledge you show of your “new” job and company, the more flattered and impressed the decision-maker will be. No one will hire you because you need a job, they will hire you because you will solve a problem. Your plan and solutions will probably be very wrong. It doesn’t matter. You have demonstrated a sincere, studied interest in the company and have made a remarkable effort. Then they have to deal with you. A plan in a three-ring binder cannot be filed. Your plan will sit on the top of a credenza and every time an exec walks into that office, there you are at eye level!

— When you get the interview, show up 20 minutes before the meeting (not an hour). Check out in advance how the employees of the company dress and dress like that. This is no time for self-expression. After the interview, send thank you notes to everyone you met on real paper with a real postal stamp, no emails.

— The goal is to start doing the job weeks or months before you are actually hired. Bring a sales order. Write a positive critique from a listening monitor. Show up at a remote and help.

— TIP. Your odds of landing a job are much greater if you aim for one in the city where you now live.

— Go to the gym.

Walter Sabo was the youngest Executive Vice President in the history of NBC. The youngest VP in the history of ABC. He was a consultant to RKO General longer than Bill Drake. Walter was the in house consultant to Sirius for eight years. He has never written a resume. Contact him at walter@sabomedia.com. or mobile 646-678-1110. Hear Walter Sterling at www.waltersterlingshow.comMeet Walter Sabo at TALKERS 2023 on Friday, June 2.

Industry News

Audacy Insights: Radio Killed the Video Star

An Audacy Insights piece by company chief marketing officer Paul Suchman lays out the case that audio – radio/streaming/podcasts – is a more effective marketing tool than video (the traditional darling of media planners). Suchman writes that this argument “is among the ultimate tussles between media planners and publishers. While some may lean more heavily toward video, we at Audacy respectfully disagree.” He makes a five-point argument in audio’s favor saying it wins in reach, time spent using, is more immersive, activates all senses, and drives recall. Read the complete story here.

Industry News

Nikki Ramirez Joins Research Director Inc

Radio pro Nikki Ramirez (Cumulus Media Atlanta and Audacy Miami) joins Research Director Inc as sales & business development lead. Research Director says that “in this new position, Ramirez will accelerate radio stations’ awareness of Research Director’s powerful Programming & Ratings Toolbox, designed to provide a deeper understanding of market performance immediately after Nielsen’s data release.” Company CEO Marc Greenspan says, “We’re excited to leverage Nikki’s extensive radio industry knowledge and experience, both on-air and behind-the-scenes, to fuel our growth in helping radio stations across the U.S. maximize the value of data to improve both their ratings and their revenue. She joins our team at a pivotal time as we look to showcase our unique ability to help clients improve their programming effectiveness and sales success.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Saga Communications announces that it will release its First Quarter 2023 operating results at 9:00 am ET on Wednesday, May 3, 2023. The company will hold a conference call on the same date at 11:00 am ET.

Last Saturday (4/1) the ParaPod Awards were handed out at the Hyatt Regency Valencia as part of the two-day ParaPod Festival. The awards recognize the influencers and content creators working in the paranormal genre. ParaPod founder Tony Sweet says, “The mainstream awards seem to skip over paranormal content. However, it takes no less time, skill, and talent to cover our genre than it does any other. So, why not create an awards platform to celebrate these brilliant individuals?” Actress and podcaster Jillian Clare (“Days of Our Lives,” “Alien Abduction”) was on hand to present the podcast and documentary category awards.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Salem Media Group is promoting its planned coverage of the booking of former President Donald Trump in Manhattan today (4/4). Salem Radio Network talk personality Mike Gallagher leads the Special Report coverage streaming on the Salem News Channel at 2:00 pm ET.

Edison Research, in partnership with NPR, is presenting a webinar on April 13 at 2:00 pm ET titled, “Hit Play, Boomer! Podcasting’s Age 55+ Opportunity.” Edison says, “Forty-two percent of Baby Boomers in the U.S. – those age 55+ – have ever listened to a podcast. Attend the webinar to learn more about what has shaped Baby Boomers in the U.S. and what their media habits look like today. Learn how they consume audio and which podcasts index the highest for listening among Boomers.”

The National Association of Broadcasters announces its new campaign highlighting the importance of AM radio in the car for news, community engagement, entertainment and vital public safety information. The campaign includes a website with a grassroots call to action and new tools for stations to highlight the importance of AM radio. This campaign is being launched as some automakers have stripped AM radio out of certain vehicle models.

Industry News

Monday Memo: Dominion v. FOX News

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

In Dominion Voting Systems’ $1.6 billion lawsuit, testimony and internal communications demonstrate that FOX News management and talent privately doubted election fraud claims they were broadcasting. Tucker Carlson messaged Laura Ingraham: “Sidney Powell is lying by the way. I caught her. It’s insane.”

Several FOX News Radio affiliates have asked what impact these disclosures have on station credibility.

 My advice: Your affiliation remains a franchise.

— 21% percent of FOX News viewers do say they trust the network less following the release of evidence in the Dominion case, per Maru Group poll commissioned by Variety. This is notable because FOX is not reporting the story, citing that it is the defendant; and because few minds change, generally, in divided America. We choose to believe what we choose to believe, and FOX simply got caught pandering.

— Trump loyalists are especially dug-in. His legal problems galvanize supporters’ view that he’s persecuted. At CPAC he proclaimed, “I am your retribution.”

— Affiliates: The FOX brand is your asset. To my ear, FOX Radio on-hour/half-hour newscasts report the same facts as ABC or CBS Radio newscasts. I haven’t tested this, but I’d bet a Martini at the Palm that reading transcripts – side-by-side with ABC or CBS Radio copy – the target demo’ couldn’t tell which-is-whose. But listener complaints – rooted in distrust that ABC and CBS are the proverbial “Mainstream Media” – caused several of my client stations to switch to FOX. Reaction was positive.

— Think car radio and assure listeners that they can “get a quick FOX News update” on-hour/half-hour “throughout your busy day.” “Because news that matters to you is changing fast,” listeners will want to “stay close to the news.”

— Bottom line: Unless the financial consequence of these legal actions drives FOX News out of business, hang in there.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author “Spot-On: Commercial Copy Points That Earned The Benjamins,” a FREE download; and the E-book and FREE on-air radio features “Inflation Hacks: Save Those Benjamins;” and “Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books.  Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

KTBB, Tyler, Texas News Anchor John Sims Dies After Accident

KTBB, Tyler, Texas news anchor and veteran East Texas broadcaster John Sims died early this morning (3/31) from injuries he sustained on Monday (3/27) after being struck by a motor vehicle while taking a walk. He suffered severe brain trauma and was admitted to UT Health Tyler where he underwent surgery. KTBB owner Paul Gleiser says, “We are heartbroken, plain and simple. John was as good as it gets as a radio newsman. But beyond that, he was a kind and gentle soul with a heart to make his community better. The many people from all over East Texas and from across the social and political spectrum who have reached out to us following John’s accident serve as testament to a life well lived. We will miss him more than I can say.” Sims grew up near Philadelphia where his father called radio play-by-play for the Phillies. Sims had been news anchor and editor at KTBB since 1998. He was involved in many local community organizations and was respected and admired by those with whom he interacted.

Industry News

AWMF Announces 2023 Gracie Award Winners

The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF) announces the winners of the 48th Annual Gracie Awards that recognize outstanding programming and individual achievement created by women, for women, and about women in all facets of media in news and entertainment. Winners will be honored at a gala event on May 23 at the Beverly Wilshire in Los Angeles. The local and student award-winners will be recognized at the Gracie Awards Luncheon on June 20 at Cipriani in New York. AWMF president Becky Brooks says, “As we close out Women’s History Month, it is important to remember the legacy of Gracie Allen, the inspiration behind these esteemed awards. This year’s recipients exemplify Gracie Allen’s spirit through their exceptional talent, innovation, and vision. Their steadfast dedication to their craft and their tenacious resolve to break boundaries serve as a compelling testament to the essential role women play in molding the cultural landscape. We eagerly anticipate celebrating their outstanding accomplishments.” Winners in the radio category (national and local) in commercial news or talk formats include: Jai Kershner, “Good Day Show,” Outstanding News Anchor; Mandy Connell, iHeartMedia, Host Non‐Morning Drive; Christina Musson, KMJ AM/FM Fresno, Co‐host (Talk/Personality) Small/Medium Market; Marcy Williams, WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta, Outstanding News Reporter; “Talking Golf with Ann Liguori,” WFAN, New York, Talk Show ‐ Sports; and “The Gee and Ursula Show,” KIRO-FM,  Seattle, Talk Show ‐ Talk. See the complete list of winners here.

Industry News

Hofstra Grad Student Receives Gracie Live on “The View”

Hofstra University grad student Fatima Moien won a 2023 Gracie Award for her work as the on-air talent for the Lawrence Herbert School of Communication’s “Live from Studio A.” The series brings influential media and communications professionals to campus to share their personal stories, advice, and wisdom with Hofstra students. In the photo above, Moien (sixth from the left) receives her Gracie on the set of ABC’s “The View” with her parents present. Additionally, AWMF president Becky Brooks, presented Moien with a $10,000 scholarship generously donated by ABC News and “The View” in honor of the late Barbara Walters.

Industry News

Audacy Names Ed Egros to Co-Host of “BetQL Daily”

Audacy adds Ed Egros as co-host of “BetQL Daily” on the company’s BetQL Network. Egros joins co-hosts Joe Ostrowski and Erin Hawksworth on the 9:00 am to 12:00 noon ET show beginning April 3. BetQL Network VP Mitch Rosen says, “Ed has become a leading voice on sports betting and analytics over the course of his career and we’re pleased to add him and his perspective to our weekday ‘BetQL Daily’ program alongside Joe and Erin. Through his wealth of experience in sports reporting and analysis, Ed will provide valuable insights to our listeners as they make their betting decisions, while using his expertise to break down games, analyze players and teams, and provide valuable betting tips, strategies and Wagertainment.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Cumulus Media announces that news/talk WJR-AM, Detroit will serve as the official radio broadcast and play-by-play partner for the USFL’s Michigan Panthers for the 2023 season. WJR’s dedicated Panthers coverage will include live on-air and streaming broadcasts of the team’s home games from Ford Field, as well as away games. Five-time Michigan Association of Broadcasters award winner Chris Renwick will serve as play-by-play announcer. Renwick is senior news analyst for WJR and host of the station’s “SportsWrap.”

iHeartMedia and Intuit Quickbooks announce an original podcast series focused on the trials and tribulations of owning a small business. “Mind the Business: Small Business Success Stories” is hosted by personal finance influencer and investor Austin Hankwitz and creator and host of the award-winning personal finance podcast, “Yo Quiero Dinero,” Jannese Torres. It’s designed to share insights to help small business owners and entrepreneurs succeed.