Ratings Takeaways

April 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

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

Nielsen Audio’s April 2023 sweep covered March 30 – April 26.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are March 2023 – April 2023   (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” flat at 3.7, ninth to tenth

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” steady at 1.9, repeats at #18

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 5.0 – 4.5, -.5, sixth to seventh

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.4 – 2.9, +.5, #15 to #13

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets, Yankees) 2.9 – 3.2, +.3, anchored at #12

Good Karma Brands’ WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Rangers, Islanders) unchanged at 1.3, #22 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.5 – 3.8, +.3, tenth to ninth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, sixth month in a row, steady at 7.6

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: urban AC WBLS (+.6)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: Spanish tropical WSKQ (-1.0)

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.1 – 4.3, +.2, fifth to fourth

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 3.3 – 2.9, -.4, #10 to #11

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.2 – 2.4, +.2, #17 to #16

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KRTH, second month in succession, 5.8 – 5.7, -.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: adult hits KCBS-FM (+.5)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: CHR KIIS (-.6)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” (Blackhawks) 3.4 – 3.2, -.2, ninth to tenth

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 4.8 – 4.4, -.4, anchored in fourth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WSCR “670 The Score” (Bulls, Cubs) 2.5 – 3.1, +.6, #14 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 3.4 – 3.1, -.3, #9 to #12  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, seventh straight month, 6.7 – 6.8, +.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: classic rock WDRV (+.9)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: news/talk WBBM-AM & WCFS and regional Mexican WLEY (-.4)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.3 – 1.8, +.5, #22 to #19

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 8.0 – 7.3, -.7, #1

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.1 – 3.3, +1.2, #15 to #9

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (Golden State Warriors) 2.2 – 2.7, +.5, #14 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 5.3 – 5.2, -.1, remains in fourth-place

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, first month, 7.2 – 7.3, +.1 and news KCBS-AM & KFRC, second month in a row, 8.0 – 7.3, -.7

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: sports talk KNBR (+1.2)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: news KCBS-AM & KFRC and classical KDFC (-.7)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.4 – 3.2, -.2, #12 to #13

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” 2.3 – 2.1, -.2, #18 to #20

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) steady at 5.6, #1

Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Texas Rangers) 2.3 – 3.0, +.7, #18 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 2.7 – 2.2, -.5, #16 to #19

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media sports talk KTCK, fourth straight month, flat at 5.6

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: sports talk KRLD-FM and alternative KVIL (+.7)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KMVK and public radio news/talk KERA (-.5)

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) unchanged at 3.7, #12 to #10

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF 2.6 – 2.8, +.2, #17 to #15

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, 26th consecutive month, 9.0 – 8.9, -.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: hot AC KHMX (+1.0)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: Spanish adult hits KOVE (-1.4)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 6.6 – 7.0, +.4, anchored in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) 1.3 – 2.6, +1.3, #21 to #16

Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks) 2.4 – 2.5, +.1, #17 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 3.6 – 3.4, -.2, #9 to #11

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, fourth successive month, 8.3 – 8.9, +.6

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: sports talk WCNN (+1.3)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WHTA (-1.7)*

*Represents the largest March 2023 – April 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 6.2 – 5.5, -.7, third to seventh

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies) 4.7 – 5.9, +1.2, eighth to sixth

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers, Flyers) flat at 1.4, stays at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 5.4 – 4.9, -.5, seventh to ninth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM, third month in a row, 7.2 – 7.7, +.5

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: sports talk WIP (+1.2)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: news KYW & WPHI (-.7)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.1 – 2.2, +.1, #16 to #15

Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 1.3 – 1.8, +.5, #22 to #19

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 3.5 – 3.8, +.3, ninth to seventh

WCBS-AM cluster-mate WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 3.7 – 3.3, -.4, eighth to tenth

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets, Yankees) 4.4 – 4.6, +.2, sixth to fifth

WFAN’s internet stream .4 – .6, +.2, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, second month in a row, 6.0 – 7.0, +1.0

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: classic rock WBAB (+1.0)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (-.5)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, flat at .3, repeats at #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, first month, 6.1 – 5.7, -.4

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: rhythmic CHR KGGI (+1.1)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KSCA (-1.2)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.5 – 1.7, +.2, #18 to #20

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.3 – 6.2, -.1, #1

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.6 – 4.4, +1.8, #14 to #6

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (Golden State Warriors) 1.4 – 1.9, +.5, #21 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: news KCBS-AM & KFRC, second month, 6.3 – 6.2, -.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: sports talk KNBR (+1.8)**

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: 1980s hits KOSF (-1.3)

**Represents the largest March 2023 – April 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.5 – 7.1, +.6, second to first 

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.0 – 1.3, +.3, repeats at #20

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 2.3 – 2.0, -.3, #9 to #13

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 1.6 – 1.7, +.1, #14 to #16

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets, Yankees) 3.8, #9 (non-subscriber in March 2023)

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Rangers, Islanders) 1.1 – 1.6, +.5, #17 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: news/talk WKXW, first month, 6.5 – 7.1, +.6

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: hot AC WNEW-FM (+.8)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WMGQ (-1.1)

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

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Industry News

WOSH, Oshkosh Wins Honor from WBA

Cumulus Media’s news/talk WOSH-AM/W230DB, Oshkosh, Wisconsin was honored by the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association with first place for Best Continuing Coverage for 2022 in the Medium Market Radioim – News & Talk category, for its coverage of Old Glory Honor Flight #59. “WOSH Morning News” host Phil Cianciola traveled with nearly 100 U.S. military veterans (including one WWII vet) to the D.C. memorials and submitted 19 featurettes aired throughout the one-day broadcast event on WOSH. WOSH also claimed second place honors in the Best On-Scene Reporting category for Phil Cianciola’s first-hand coverage of the aftermath of Hurricane Ian from Sanibel Island, Florida. The honors were bestowed at the 2023 Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Awards Gala on May 6.

Industry News

IAB: 2022 Podcast Revenue Rises 26%

At this year’s IAB Podcast Upfront, the IAB released the results of its U.S. Podcast Advertising 2022 Revenue & 2023-2025 Growth Projections study and concludes that “podcasting continues to be one of the fastest growing digital channels, growing two times faster than digital advertising overall.” The report, byim PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, “quantifies annual podcast advertising revenues generated over the past year, analyzes revenue share by ad category and content genre, and forecasts future revenues through 2025.” The study says the top revenue-generating content genres are Sports (15%), Society & Culture (14%), and Comedy (14%) and have taken the lead from News and Political Opinion content (down from 19% to 12%). IAB VP, media center Eric John says, “In-person sports, lifestyle events, and in-store shopping have come back in a big way, taking the lead from news which held the top revenue genre spot since 2018. Podcasting revenue naturally reflects that shift in consumer behavior and it will be interesting to watch how the balance changes going forward.” He adds, “Both mass and niche advertisers like the audiences, targeting, and ROI along with the brand-safe and suitable environments that podcasting offers.” See the complete report here.

Industry News

NBA & MBA Launch The High School Radio Project

The Nebraska Broadcasters Association and the Massachusetts Broadcasters Association have partnered to create The High School Radio Project (HSRP). The two broadcasters associations say, “Theim HSRP brings real-world radio skills to high school media students in each state, allowing students to curate and schedule music, record radio breaks, produce news and sports stories, interviews, and PSAs, all aired on a streaming radio station heard around the world, 24-hours a day on HighSchoolRadioProject.org, Live365, and Amazon Alexa.” They have recruited industry vendors to assist the students in their radio projects, allowing them to “closely mimic an actual radio station, developing critical communication skills and giving a head start to those who wish to further their radio journey by bolstering college applications and adding valuable skills to their work resumé.”

Industry News

Jayne Miller to Host Weekend Show on WBAL-AM

Baltimore investigative reporter Jayne Miller – who retired from WBAL-TV, Baltimore last year after 40 years – is hosting a talk show on Hearst Television’s WBAL “NewsRadio 1090 AM and 101.5 FM.” The Saturday 11:00im am to 1:00 pm program will “take a closer look at a variety of issues important to the greater Baltimore area, leaning on her extensive network to bring Saturday listeners interviews with key newsmakers.” WBAL director of programming Jeff Wade states, “Jayne brings a wealth of knowledge to the microphone built on decades of experience asking the tough questions and holding those in power accountable. I’m excited for her to bring that same tenacity, inquisitive nature and passion to WBAL’s Saturday lineup.”

Industry News

West Virginia’s Bob Huggins Utters Gay Slur During WLW Show

College hoops coach Bob Huggins issued an apology after using the word “fa**ots” during his appearance on the Bill Cunningham show on iHeartMedia’s WLW, Cincinnati yesterday (5/8). CBS Newsim reports that Huggins’ employer – West Virginia University – says it is taking the situation “under review and will be addressed by the University and its athletics department.” Cunningham and Huggins were talking about Huggins’ former crosstown rival, Xavier University, from his time as head coach of University of Cincinnati, when Huggins referenced incidents of Xavier students throwing rubber penises on the basketball court “and then say they didn’t do it.” He added, “…what it was, was all those fa**ots, those Catholic fa**ots, I think.” Read the CBS story here.

Industry News

Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Forced to Change Award Winners

After handing out honors at its annual awards gala over the weekend, the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association is forced to take back three awards and give them to the rightful recipients. Two of the awards were in television categories but the third affected news/talk radio outlets. Seehafer Broadcasting’sim talk/AC/sports station WOMT-AM/W300EE, Manitowoc was named News Operation of the Year winner in Medium Market News and Talk Radio. Midwest Communications’ news/talk WTAQ, Green Bay was erroneously named the winner on Saturday night. The WBA says the stations have been informed and awards will be produced and delivered to the stations. WBA president Michelle Vetterkind says, “We are very sorry for the error. The points awarded for social/digital media categories were not attributed to the News Operation of the Year award calculation. In previous years, points for those categories did not go toward News Operation of the Year. That rule change was made for the 2022 contest but wasn’t incorporated into the tabulation process.”

Industry News

Panel Discussion to Tackle the Talk Media Industry’s Key Concerns

One of the most popular sessions at the annual TALKERS Conference is “The Big Picture” panel and this year’s planned installment of the discussion promises to continue in that tradition of perspective and pertinence.  The panel will be introduced by TALKERS associate publisher/media attorney, Matthew B. Harrison, Esq. and moderated by TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison.  Panelists include (in alphabetical order): Arthur Aidala, Esq. founding partner, Aidala, Bertuna & Kamins, PC/host, AM 970 The Answer, New York; Dr. Asa Andrew, CEO/host, The Doctor Asa NetworkLee Habeeb, host/producer, Our American StoriesLee Harris, director of Integrated Operations, NewsNation; and Kraig Kitchin, CEO, Sound Mind, LLC/chairman, Radio Hall of Fame.  One more panelist has yet to be named.  The issues that the session will cover include: the existential cultural, technological and financial issues facing radio and talk media; the medium’s role in the national political conversation and culture wars; the impact of artificial intelligence on intellectual property and creative originality; the evolution of ethics, justice and journalism in American society; and an examination of potential topics and concerns that will keep the medium vibrant as we move deeper into the 21st century. “It’s all about perspective,” says panel moderator Michael Harrison. “If we are to survive as an industry as well as a community, we have to step back and look at the big picture within which we operate… and it is getting bigger and bigger with each passing moment. We must avoid becoming smaller and smaller.”  More than 60 luminaries from the talk media industry are set to speak at a power-packed day of fireside chats, solo addresses, panel discussions, workshops, award presentations, new equipment showcases and endless networking opportunities. TALKERS 2023 is nearing an advance sellout. See more about the agenda, registration, sponsorship and hotel information here

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Twitter Technique

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imTik-Tok is hot (largely among users too young to be heavy AM/FM listeners) and it’s in-the-news (about its possible ban). And, yes, Facebook remains T-Rex in the social media jungle. But people on Twitter seem to live there.

— Twitter is a useful right-now prompt, because Tweets stack-up, so there’s less value alerting Followers to what’s up much later today or tomorrow.

— Like any contact, there’s a quality/quantity trade-off. You will get a feel for how-much-is-too-much when you see your Followers number drop. So, think before you Tweet. You’ll never get un-Followed for something you didn’t Tweet.

— Best of all, like other social media, Twitter is…social. Conversations begin and spread. And any of your Followers can re-Tweet your message to all their Followers, and any of them could re-Tweet it too. Going-viral like that is powerful peer-to-peer endorsement, particularly if you’re a podcaster, because subscriptions are the ballgame.

im

REAL opportune: links and attachments.

— AM/FM transmitters are audio-only and only in real-time. But you can Tweet-out a photo or video or a link to online content. Research demonstrates that third-party content you share gets re-Tweeted more than content about yourself.

— Possibly the most-useful Tweets about your radio work are “snack-size” single-topic aircheck clips. Especially opportune: guest interview excerpts that enable listeners. “Car Coach Lauren Fix has three tips BEFORE your summer road trip.” Why expose that useful programming content only to those who happened to be listening live?

— Tweeting in that fashion not only conforms to listeners’ on-demand media preference, it puts your audio back in the pocket, where radio used to be.

Twitter does double-duty BEFORE your show.

— Note how SiriusXM/CNN host Michael Smerconish tees-up topics with quick videos and polls. People like being-asked. A real estate agent whose weekend show I coach uses Twitter “to ask an opinion on a light fixture, a paint color, an appliance.” She notes that “on HGTV’s website, they have a section called ‘Rate My Remodel.’ Regular folks send in pictures of a recent remodel that they did, and others comment. People love this stuff.” So, start a conversation that takes wings. When you read posted comments on-air, you sound accessible and popular.

— And Twitter’s characters-limit is a useful discipline. You’re pre-scripting your concise, inviting show open.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author “Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books; and “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.” Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

Former Cuomo Aide to Host WABC Radio Show

Melissa DeRosa, who served as aide to former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, is getting her own weekly radio show on WABC, New York. The New York Post reports that DeRosa, who has been serving as aim contributor to the Red Apple Media station, will host a Sunday talk show, although a firm start date has not been announced. Red Apple CEO John Catsimatidis tells the Post, “She is one smart lady and she is one tough lady and you know how much I appreciate smart tough ladies.” DeRosa says her show will tackle “the major headlines driving national news and New York news. It will be a mix of insiders conversation but also I want it to have broader appeal to everyday New Yorkers.” Read the Post story here.

Industry News

Today’s Radio Talk Show Hosts Face Unique Challenges

A special panel addressing the career management issues facing today’s talk radio talent has been set for TALKERS 2023 which will take place on Friday, June 2 at Hofstra University on Long Island. It’s always been difficult to forge a successful on-air career in radio – but today, it is particularly intense. Talk show hosts in 2023 must deal with integrating their on-air responsibilities with the multi-platform nature of modern media, fragmented pop culture, stifling budget restrictions, and highly distracted or corporately paralyzed management. This all plays out against the backdrop of controversy, political correctness, a dizzyingly non-stop news cycle and incessant technological change. The session titled, “Navigating a Radio Talk Show Hosting Career,” will be introduced by Ryan McCormick, managing partner, Goldman McCormick, PR and a syndicated talk show host in his own right; moderated by Heavy Hundred mainstay and the “Dean of Philadelphia Talk Radio,” Dom Giordano, WPHT, Philadelphia; and include panelists (in alphabetical order): super-agent, Heather Cohen, SVP, The Weiss Agency; Heavy Hundred member Mandy Connell,  KOA, Denver; Heavy Hundred member Jeff Katz, WRVA, Richmond; Heavy Hundred member Frank Morano, WABC, New York/Red Apple Audio Network, and Heavy Hundred member Martha Zoller, WDUN, Gainesville, Georgia.   More than 60 luminaries from the talk media industry are set to speak at a power-packed day of fireside chats, solo addresses, panel discussions, workshops, award presentations, new equipment showcases and endless networking opportunities. TALKERS 2023 is nearing an advance sellout. See more about the agenda, registration, sponsorship and hotel information here.

Industry News

Ovies and Giglio Launch Podcast

The Charlotte Observer reports that former WCMC-FM, Raleigh sports talk hosts Joe Ovies and Joe Giglio are launching a podcast venture after being let go by WCMC owner Capitol Broadcasting last week. The duoim have started The OG Live Podcast Co to operate their business. They say the new podcast program, titled, “Ovies & Giglio,” will drop three times a week – Monday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings – on a YouTube channel. Giglio tells the paper, “We’re going to try to do what we’ve been doing, only on our own. The outpouring from both listeners and from our sources — coaches, administrators, commissioners, (Canes owner) Tom Dundon — that part has been overwhelming and obviously super encouraging at a time when we obviously needed it. So that’s kinda why we thought we could do this. We hope we can make the most of the chance that we have.” Read the Observer story here.

Industry News

BIA Advisory Services: WTOP-FM Top Biller in 2022

im

 

BIA Advisory Services announces that in the first edition of its Investing In Radio® Market Report for 2023, that the top billing radio station in 2022 was Hubbard Broadcasting’s all-news WTOP-FM, Washington ($69 million). It also reports that the total U.S. local radio over-the-air and digital revenue for 2022 topped $13.6 billion in 2022, an increase of 7.4% over the $12.6 billion total in 2021. Over-the-air advertising grew 2.2% to $11 billion (up from $10.7 billion in 2021) and digital income rose 35% to $2.6 billion (up from $1.9 billion in 2021). BIA VP of forecasting Nicole Ovadia says, “Looking at last year’s ad revenue results, it shows that radio is maintaining an important position in their local markets, particularly as it expands and improves its online digital presence. This year, we are making a particular effort to track the digital revenue of local radio stations and believe this breakout in our forecast will be valuable to everyone in the industry.” The BIA report notes that, aside from WTOP, “other all-news stations struggled.” Compared to last year’s list, Audacy’s all-news WBBM-AM/WCFO-FM dropped to the number nine position and WCBS-AM, New York dropped to the 11th position. New to the top 10 list is Cox Media Group’s news/talk WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta ($31.6 million).

Industry News

Beasleys Honored by B+C Hall of Fame

Beasley Media Group late company founder George Beasley and his daughter, CEO Caroline Beasley, were among the inductees honored at the 2023 Broadcasting + Cable Hall of Fame Gala on Wednesday (5/3) in New York City. Caroline Beasley (pictured at right accepting the honors) says, “It is very humbling to be aim part of such an outstanding class of inductees. The only thing better would have been to have my late father, George, by my side, to accept this incredible honor together in person.” Other inductees included Deborah Roberts, ABC News national senior affairs correspondent, and contributing anchor of 20/20, and her husband Al Roker, weather and feature anchor and co-host of the third hour of NBC’s “Today Show,” Matt Bond, chairman, content distribution, NBCUniversal; Ray Cole, president and chief operating officer, Citadel Communications; Frank Comerford, CRO and president, local sales, NBCUniversal Advertising & Partnerships; Ray Hopkins, president, U.S. Networks Distribution, Paramount Global; Wonya Lucas, CEO, Hallmark Media; Soledad O’Brien, CEO of SO’B Productions and host/producer of “Matter of Fact with Soledad O’Brien”; and Rachael Ray, TV food personality and host of “The Rachael Ray Show.” In addition, Jim Nantz of CBS Sports received the Lifetime Achievement Award and AMC’s “The Walking Dead” was named the Iconic Series for 2023. Late past president of the Broadcasters Foundation of America, Jim Thompson, was posthumously honored with the Chairman’s Award for his career achievements and tireless dedication to helping broadcasters in need.

Industry News

TALKERS 2023 Nearing Early Sellout

With slightly less than a month to go, TALKERS 2023, the 26th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest running and most important national gathering, is nearing an early advance sellout. The one-day, power-packed conference will take place on Friday, June 2 at Hofstra University on Long Island. It is presented by TALKERS magazine in association with Hofstra’s nationally acclaimed radio station, WRHU-FM/WRHU.org. According to TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey, “There is particularly strong interest in the event this year – perhaps because of the huge influence talk media – especially news/talk radio, cable news/talk TV, sports/talk radio and podcasting – are exacting on the national conversation. At the same time, all of these platforms are facing major existential issues ranging from challenges generating revenue, navigating controversy, and competing against technologically induced cultural sea-changes.” Casey adds, “The magnificent setting of Hofstra really works well for this conference. The state of the art theater is wonderfully spacious – which means a lot during what will hopefully be the tail end of COVID; the broadcasting facilities for those attendees who’ll be doing their shows live from the site are second-to-none; the breakfast, lunch and closing reception events take place outdoors under an open tent in a delightful and health-minded setting; the agenda features more than 60 outstanding speakers and directly addresses the key questions facing the industry. Knowledge and connections are power. TALKERS 2023 will provide the latest information and it is a fantastic networking opportunity.” Conference director Michael Harrison says, “This industry conference is steeped in history, tradition and dynamic purpose. Careers and lives change at the TALKERS conference!” Register now to avoid being shut out. See more about the agenda, registration, sponsorship and hotel information here.

Industry News

Latino Media Network Names Sylvia Banderas Coffinet CEO

As reported by Sara Fischer for Axios, Latino Media Network – the Hispanic media company partially funded by philanthropist and activist George Soros – names Sylvia Banderas Coffinet chief operating officer. Banderas Coffinet most recently served as general manager at Vox Media. Latino Media Network’s acquisitionim of the conservative Radio Mambí network of Spanish-language news/talk stations from TelevisaUnivision aggravated some conservatives who petitioned the FCC to deny the license transfers. The petition was rejected. The Radio Mambí format goes back to Amancio Víctor Suárez’s launch of programming created by anti-communist Cuban exiles in the mid-1980s. The group of 18 radio stations will gradually be turned over to Latino Media Network throughout this year. Company co-founder Jess Morales Rocketto is quoted saying, “We’re not the first business owners with our own political leanings,” while adding that they are focused on commercial success and not “imposing a political agenda.” Read the Axios piece here.

Industry News

Museum of Broadcast Communications Launches Auction to Fund Move

The Museum of Broadcast Communications announces its first-ever online auction and fundraiser commemorating the organization’s 40th anniversary. The museum’s current space is being sold to a developer, so it is seeking a new location and anticipates being able to re-open the museum within the next 18 to 24im months. This auction to raise funds includes fun experiences on which to bid, including: lunch with Emmy award-winning actor Henry Winkler; tickets to CBS’ “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert”; sit with sports radio host Jim Rome in-studio or on-site at NFL’s Radio Row the week leading up to Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas; and more. MBC board chair David Plier says, “It’s an exciting time for the museum and our future. The enthusiasm and generosity we have received for this fundraising effort from the broadcast community and celebrities – not just in Chicago but nationwide – has been tremendous. This fundraiser is about creating access and memorable experiences – from being a producer for a day at a major network, touring a live working newsroom or even having your voicemail greeting personalized by TV and comedy great Bob Newhart – ‘Forty for 40’ is not to be missed.”

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Weekend 101

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imIt’s the most effective tactic in marketing: Free samples. And the attorneys, financial advisors, real estate agents, veterinarians, and other ask-the-expert hosts who broker time for weekend call-in shows can drum up lots of new business…IF they execute well.

It’s a big “if,” because they’re not career broadcasters. So, technique that’s second nature to us is news to them. And because, at too many stations, there’s little or no coaching. Here are some of the fundamentals I convey to weekenders at client stations, and brokering hosts elsewhere who aren’t getting aircheck support:

— Plan each show. Re-write any news-about-your-topic or other material you will read, rather than reading verbatim paragraph-length excerpts from newspaper clippings or other source material you found on the Internet or elsewhere. That stuff wasn’t written for the ear. Put it into your own words. Practice aloud, to yourself, before the show.

— Remember: YOU are the expert. It’s Greek to them. So, avoid lingo and acronyms. Instead of percentages (“36%”) use fractions (“just over a third”).

— Listen carefully to the caller’s question. Don’t interrupt unduly…but don’t let ‘em ramble either. Once they’ve asked a question or described their situation, recommend what they should do.  Listeners in similar situations will relate.

im

Do’s and Don’ts:

— DON’T squander time at the beginning of the show with long hellos, or small talk about the weather (which aired at the end of the newscast just before your show began), or other off-topic blah-blah-blah.

— DO introduce yourself, and succinctly explain how you can help the listener. I tell weekenders I coach to begin with their elevator speech: “I’m Chuck Thompson, from Chuck’s Auto Repair, and I’m here to help you get more miles out of the-car-you’ve-already-paid-for.” If your business has a slogan, that should also be the mantra for your radio show, to keep your on-air message consistent with your other marketing.

— DON’T wait! Give out the call-in number right-off-the-top, even if your first segment is an interview or you tee-up a topic by reading news/product reviews/etc. During that segment, your call screener can be lining-up callers.

— DO solicit calls overtly. And announce the phone number real slowly, like you’re reading the winning lottery number. Say “call me right now.” And at the end of each call (unless all the lines are lit), offer that “that opens up a line for you,” and re-announce the phone number.

— DO get to the phones ASAP, best caller first. Callers call when they hear other callers, so nothing explains that it’s a call-in advice show like you answering callers’ questions with helpful advice.

— DON’T assume that anyone but you hears your whole show. Listeners constantly tune-in. So DO re-set throughout the hour. Come out of each commercial break as though the show was just beginning. “Welcome back to ‘Larry Explains the Law.’ I’m attorney Larry Jamieson, answering your legal questions right now on WXXX. So, call me! [phone number, nice and slowly, twice].”

All of the above is host technique. And there’s another character, behind the scenes, whose method is critical to brokered hosts’ return on investment: the call screener. Share with yours my 6-minute video at SolidGoldWeekend.com, where I also explain how to warm-up slow phones.

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 Views

Pending Business: Harnessing Desperation

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

imAre you desperate enough to be a superstar seller or great manager?

Fellow fans of the NBA, especially all of us based in Miami or Milwaukee, know the name Giannis Antetokounmpo. The 28-year-old, 6’ 11”, 240-pound NBA superstar is affectionately nicknamed the Greek Freak, reflecting his Greek-Nigerian roots. In the past few days, his words dominated the sports news cycle. An emotional two-minute response to a question posed by the Milwaukee Bucks beat reporter Eric Nehm set off a viral frenzy.

Not a basketball fan? Antetokounmpo has 15 million Instagram and 3 million Twitter followers who know him well. Giannis Antetokounmpo, who earns about $40 million a year playing basketball, was asked by Nehm if he felt his team’s 2023 playoff performance was a failure as they lost to the lower seeded Miami Heat and were eliminated from the 2023 NBA playoffs.

Antetokounmpo’s answer was so riveting even a competing owner, the super shark himself—Mark Cuban – complimented Giannis in front of Cuban’s own 9 million Twitter followers.

In just over two minutes in the setting of a globally broadcast press conference, the Greek Freak explained how he does not process “failure.” His brain computes performance, goals, and achievement. Failure is not part of his competitive world, getting closer to his goal is. In a previous interview, Giannis described the desperation he feels from the fear of losing everything he has achieved is his motivation. The NBA MVP ego part is great, but for him it’s about the feed your family, make your parents proud part. Wow! A star performer who is honest enough to share how desperation pushes his performance meter for fear of losing it all.

How can sellers and managers relate when most are focused on “make the month?” Let’s start here:

  • What motivates you? Is it the money, the challenge, the ego gratification of a job well done?
  • Are you the hardest working seller or manager in the organization? Do you still waste your time lobbying for an “E” for effort?
  • How do you process not winning the business? Failure or one step closer on the next opportunity?
  • Are you focused on improving an important aspect of your performance? Commitment to improving is mission critical to every aspiring star.

Next time your motivation meter is low, search for a most memorable 2-minute motivator courtesy of Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Steve Lapa is the president of Lapcom Communications Corp. based in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Lapcom is a media sales, marketing, and development consultancy. Contact Steve Lapa via email at: Steve@Lapcomventures.com. Steve Lappa will be moderating the “Generating Revenue” panel at TALKERS 2023 on Friday, June 2 at Hofstra University.

Industry News

Ramona Holloway Transitions to Community Affairs Manager for Radio One Charlotte

Radio One announces that WLNK-FM, Charlotte personality Ramona Holloway is transitioning from her full-time on-air role to community affairs manager for the Charlotte cluster that includes news/talk WBT-AM/FM, sports talk WFNZ-FM and four music brands. In her new role, Holloway will “work with the Radio One Charlotteim stations and the local community and advocacy groups to grow and maintain positive relationships and provide community service throughout the Charlotte Metro.” Holloway has served with WLNK-FM for the past 22 years as co-host of “The Matt & Ramona Show” with partner Matt Harris. She comments, “I’ve been blessed to have lived my radio dreams. I’ve worked every format from country to gospel. I’ve been a news director and hosted a syndicated show with my brother from another mother, Matt Harris. It’s time to move into a new chapter, one that feeds my passion and gives me an opportunity to forge community partnerships that can make a positive contribution.  I’ll still stop by the ‘MIX 107.9’ studios on Tuesdays and Thursdays to have fun with my friends on the MIX morning show, but my goal is to expand Radio One’s philanthropic endeavors across all six stations in the cluster.”

Industry News

WRKO, Boston Adds “The Gambler with Adam Kaufman” to Lineup

iHeartMedia news/talk outlet WRKO, Boston adds the local sports betting program “The Gambler with Adam Kaufman” in the 10:00 pm to 12:00 midnight – Monday through Thursday – slot beginning this evening (5/1). Adam Kaufman – sports director at iHeartMedia Boston – hosts the show with contributions from Dan Watkinsim and Brian Antonelli. iHeartMedia Boston director of operations, news, talk and sports Bill Flaherty says, “Everyone I talk to is now betting on sports. With the interest at a fever pitch, I can’t think of a better time to launch this show.” Kaufman adds, “There’s no greater platform than live sports talk radio and, since January, there’s no greater obsession in and around Massachusetts than sports betting. I’ve been fortunate to spend many years of my career working in both areas and I couldn’t be more thrilled to have them intersect now. Boston is ready for a nightly gambling show. I’m honored to host it and can’t wait to sweat bets with listeners, industry experts, and our incredible team starting May 1.”

Industry News

NASBA: AM Radio Vital Link for Millions

The National Association of State Broadcasters Associations reports the findings of a survey conducted during April that concludes that listeners of more than 4,000 U.S. radio stations “risk losing access to breaking news, weather alerts, farm reports, favorite music, and informative talk programs” as automakers consider removing AM radios from car dashboards. It goes on to say, “Even with ‘AM modernization’ efforts that have added FM translators for many AM stations, many stations do not have an FM counterpart and do not stream their community-focused signals over Internet connections.” NASBA president Dewey Bruce says, “Theim findings show what we expected – AM radio across America is a diverse mix of music and talk and a vital link for millions of listeners. The goal of our station survey was three-fold. First, we wanted to confirm AM radio’s diverse landscape of formats, languages, and ownership. Second, we wanted to quantify AM radio’s crucial part in the nation’s Emergency Alert System. And third, we wanted feedback that will guide our state association response going forward.” The NASBA survey also found that “more than half of AM stations do not currently have a standalone mobile app and 40% are not currently found on radio aggregators. For many AM operators working diligently to keep their over-the-air signal on the air, providing the local news, music, entertainment, and emergency information that their communities rely upon, the expense of streaming their station and paying additional royalties is simply not realistic. The most telling survey result is that 8 in 10 respondents listed their level of concern a 10 out of 10 when it comes to AM being eliminated in the car.”

Industry News

WDBO, Orlando Expands Joe Kelley Show

Cox Media Group’s news/talk WDBO-AM/W297BB, Orlando announces the expansion of “The Joe Kelley Show” to the 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm hours, effective May 1. Station director of branding and programming Keith Memoly says, “As we embrace Joe Kelley and celebrate the expansion of his local radio show, we alsoim embrace the positive impact it will have on our community. With more time to share his insightful perspective and engaging personality, Joe will continue to uplift, connect, and strengthen the bonds that make our community thrive.” Kelley comments, “I’m really excited about the opportunity given to me by WDBO to help lead on-air discussions about such vital issues during such unstable times. Instead of talking points, I’ll just bring my natural curiosity about issues and life. Instead of screaming and yelling, I’ll engage our great listeners in compelling discussion about the day’s events. Instead of calling people names, I’ll welcome all opinions and ideas equally. Most importantly, I want ‘The Joe Kelley Show’ to be fun, interesting and easy-to-listen-to.”

Industry News

Kansas Law Allows Streaming of High School Post-Season Athletics

The Kansas legislature passes a bill allowing local broadcasters to video stream all post‐season high school events in the state, regardless of exclusive agreements entered into by the Kansas State High School Activities Association. The legislation came about as a result of frustrated broadcasters who were being banned from video streaming the most important games of the year. Unlike regular season, where high schools retain the rights to their activities, KSHSAA owns the rights to all post‐season games and state championships.im For the last several years, KSHSAA has opted into agreements with third parties that prevented local broadcasters from video-streaming games when the exclusive partner opted to do so. Kansas Association of Broadcasters president Allison Mazzei states, “I’m pleased that now, in post‐season, friends and families of student athletes will have access to free, quality coverage from the same broadcasters who cover their teams all season long. Local high school sports should be covered by local broadcasters. Our broadcasters depend on the revenue generated from high school sports coverage to stay on air and provide local news, weather, entertainment, and emergency alerts that communities depend on.” The KAB also notes students interested in pursuing careers in radio broadcast will also benefit from the legislation. Previously, if a local station was prohibited from video streaming a post‐season game, so were their student workers. Now, students will be able to cover all of their school’s activities regardless if it takes place in post season.

Features

Remembering Jerry Springer: Coming To America

By Mike Kinosian
TALKERS magazine
Managing Editor

 

imNotwithstanding the enormity of accomplishments that enveloped this exceptionally bright and learned broadcaster, Jerry Springer remained as humble and refreshingly an “ah shucks” individual as you’ll ever hope to meet.

Perhaps that speaks to the somber circumstances that brought him to this country at the tender and innocent age of five.

It’s a borderline crime that many people think the Tulane University (B.A. in Political Science, 1965) and Northwestern University (1968 Law degree) graduate’s resume consisted solely of watching people verbally and physically beat each other to a pulp on a daily, hour-long television show that carried his name for 27 years, starting in September 1991.

It was only natural that this passionate political voice for domestic and international issues – who was a leader in lowering the voting age from 21 to 18 with the 1971 passage of the 26th Amendment – be offered a meaningful podium to air his views.

Many observers, though, were stunned when – in January 2005 – Springer actually agreed to weave a daily radio talk show into his already hectic media schedule.

Field of dreams leveled

 Barely two weeks into Springer’s local run on Clear Channel Cincinnati flagship WCKY “The Revolution Of Talk Radio” and Clear Channel Detroit’s WDTW “Detroit’s Progressive Talk,” Air America Radio picked up his 9:00 am – 12:00 noon “Springer On The Radio” talkfest.

The experience had the resplendent one positively beaming. “Frankly, I’m just as excited as I can be,” he remarked to me. “Politics and public issues have always been my main interest. [It’s exciting] to have an opportunity to be part of the American conversation at a time when there is clearly a need for other points of view. Talk radio is overwhelmingly dominated by conservative ideas. There’s a place for that, of course, but we also need to hear other ideas and other points of view. Perhaps this is an area in which I can make a contribution.”

 Off-and-on discussions had been held between Springer and Air America even before the network’s March 31, 2004 sign-on. The former Cincinnati Mayor, however, confided he wasn’t thoroughly convinced he was ready to commit to doing a daily radio show. “With this last presidential election, I realized that, until we level the playing field, there’s not going to be any hope of having a more progressive government,” Springer proclaimed. “That’s when it suddenly became a priority for me. I’ve only been on Air America [since January 2005], but the early ratings returns are great; apparently, we’re doing well.”

 Life progresses

 Every Top 10 market except No. 2 Los Angeles carried “Springer On The Radio” and the overall affiliate count quickly grew to 50 outlets. “Our biggest non-Air America Radio station is [Clear Channel Cleveland news/talk] WTAM,” he pointed out. “It’s a powerhouse station and the interesting thing there is that I lead into [Premiere Radio’s] Rush Limbaugh. In some markets, I lead into [Air America’s] Al Franken and in others, I lead into Rush – talk about whiplash.”

The majority of the American populace, of course, knew Springer as the 14-year host of a show that wasn’t much of a threat to win many Peabody awards.

Approximately 10 years prior to his national exposure, though, Springer was an anchor/political reporter/commentator on Cincinnati television, proudly notching seven Emmy Awards for his nightly commentaries. “I loved doing it and don’t have any bad memories, but I’m in a different point in my life now,” Cincinnati Magazine’s five-time “Best TV Anchor” recipient commented. “Life moves on and I’m onto something else and I’m not sure I’d go back to that anymore.”

Stone cold memories

 Some would ascribe Chicago (the base of his TV show); New York; or Cincinnati as Springer’s birthplace. All would be incorrect, as he was born in London (1944) when his family successfully escaped the holocaust.

They arrived in New York City on January 24, 1949 and it is without any hesitation the usually glib Springer blurted out that particular date in reverence and sincere reflection. “I didn’t specifically go through Ellis Island,” he recounted in a markedly softer tone. “My parents and I had a five-day journey on the Queen Mary and I remember being called up on the top deck as we passed the Statue of Liberty. It didn’t mean that much to me, since I was just five years old and freezing cold. I do, however, remember being scared because I saw all those people huddled together. The other memory I have is that it was stone silent – nobody said a word.”

Radio’s role in the Americanization process

 In later years, his mother (Margot) told her son that he’d asked her why everyone was looking at the Statue of Liberty and what it meant. “She said in the German that she spoke at the time that one day it will mean everything,” Springer recalled still touched with emotion. “She was right. My family went from holocaust to this ridiculously privileged life I live today in one generation, so I know the ‘American Dream’ can work.”

The first year he and his family were immigrants, Springer lived in Manhattan’s now defunct Whitehall Hotel near Amsterdam Avenue.

One year later, they moved to a rent-controlled apartment where his parents would live for the next 32 years. “Everyone was trying to learn English,” emphasized Springer, who established a scholarship fund at Chicago’s Kellman School that serves inner city youth. “I was five years old, but my parents wanted me to become Americanized so we listened to the radio all day. One of my earliest memories as a little boy was listening in the morning to [Roger] Gallagher & [Joe] O’Brien [on New York City’s WMCA]. Some of my Americanization – including the news, sports, idioms, music and sense of humor – came through the radio.”

Compelling dialogue

Utterly and genuinely masterful at what he’s accomplished on television, a low-key Springer modestly admitted he tried to learn a little something from certain radio personalities, without consciously copying anybody. “I just turn on the microphone and talk,” he stated with simplicity. “Obviously, Rush and [ABC Radio’s/Fox News Channel’s] Sean [Hannity] are at the top of the heap, simply because they’ve been doing it for so long. I think [Air America’s] Randi Rhodes is just wonderful on the radio and Al Franken has a great sense of timing.”

Many on the right claim liberal-leaning talkers have heretofore failed in our medium because they lack the entertainment factor. If anyone knew how to present an entertaining product, it was the extremely adept Springer who flatly asserted, “The conversation has to be interesting – period. That can be in the way it’s presented; the way we accept different callers; or with little skits we do. People must feel they have to listen, but it doesn’t have to be entertaining in the ‘ha-ha’ sense all the time. To be honest, not every conservative show is entertaining – some aren’t interesting at all.”

The question of whether a program holds one’s interest or has a significant entertainment quotient has virtually nothing to do with a particular political philosophy, but rather, as Springer explained whether the host is capable of putting on a good show. “The reality is conservatives took to radio 20 years ago when liberals weren’t looking at that as an economic marketplace. Someone figured out that conservatives could really find an audience in radio because you were dealing, at that time, with angry white men going to work. You get them when they’re driving to [their jobs]. Clearly, Rush filled a void and is a tremendous talent. When people saw that, the industry moved in that direction.”

The face of liberal America

Firmly contended that conservatives did well on radio in large part because the liberals won, Springer opined in my 2005 interview, “America is far more liberal today than it ever was. I know we elect conservatives from time to time, but clearly in terms of the critical issues of the day, no one could look at America and say we are not liberal. The protest came from the right.”

Conservatives though were in charge when he was growing up and dissent came from the left.

Protests were for such noble movements and causes as civil rights, anti-war, women’s rights and the environment. “Finally, the liberals won and their agenda is how most Americans live,” Springer contended. “Even if you call yourself a conservative, chances are your kids are listening to the same music, going to the same movies and wearing the same clothing. The culture is clearly more liberal than it ever was. We don’t even blink if we see interracial dating or interracial marriage; it’s not an issue. We’ve clearly moved to the left. Since America is now so liberal in terms of its everyday living, the protest is coming from the right.”

TV show proves to be a non-issue

That’s certainly more than a plausible reason to explain the widespread success enjoyed by conservative talk radio. “With the emergence of the Christian right or whatever in the last couple of years, liberals have been getting nervous again,” Springer speculated. “You’ll start to see the emergence of liberal radio. Radio will always be the response to what’s going on in society. People aren’t going to call up [talk shows] if they’re happy with everything; they’ll get on with their lives. People who call are the ones who are upset. That’s why you’ve seen this trend in radio from liberal to conservative back to liberal.”

 Listener feedback to the engaging Springer was gratifying and, on at least one level, elicited a curious result. “We don’t get any calls – and I mean none – that comment on the [television show],” he stressed. “I sometimes wonder if they even know that it’s me or if they think I’m a guy with a similar name. From whatever side of the spectrum they’re from, no one seems to make reference to the television show. It’s a non-entity in terms of radio.”

Not a perfect fit

Those unaware of Springer’s legitimate political acumen could be caught off-guard by hearing him as the front person of an issue-charged talk program, but the host adamantly maintained, “Within 18 seconds of hearing the show, you’re going to realize it’s different. You may not agree with what I’m saying, but it’s impossible to listen [and not have an opinion].”

Commanding center stage approximately eighteen years ago were such topics as the war in Iraq; terrorist bombings in London; potential Supreme Court nominees; Social Security; and other pertinent headlines of the day. “Even if you were inclined to call and razz me about the [TV] show, it’s pretty hard to do,” Springer contended. “You’d be embarrassed because everyone else is talking about a woman crying because her son is fighting in Iraq and the next caller [weakly] says, ‘Hey, Jerry, I love those transvestites.’ It wouldn’t fit and we’ve found, for some reason, it also doesn’t exist.”

Mindless to mind-provoking

 Juggling both the radio and high-profile syndicated television show proved to be admittedly rough for Springer – who was generally up at 5:30 am. “I spend two hours at the studio going over my notes from the night before and checking if there’ve been any changes from [overnight]. I do the [radio] show and then we immediately have a 30-minute meeting. We tentatively pick a couple of subjects to talk about [on the next broadcast] and people start doing research.”

If it happened to be a television-taping day, he rushed to that studio to do shows at 3:00 pm and 6:00 pm and was usually back home by 9:00 at night.

Over dinner, he checked to see if there were any changes or breaking news.

“Springer On The Radio” was produced in Cincinnati, but the television show required the host to be in Chicago. “I also have a place in Sarasota; I’ve been in New York; and just recently did the show from London,” he pointed out. “It’s a lot of work and it’s a real job. I devote a couple of hours a week to the television show and the thing I do is mindless, but the radio show is real work.”    

Tongue tied

On-air radio elements consisted of Springer and caller interaction, with no emphasis placed on guests. “I’m not rushing to do it, but won’t say I’ll never do it,” he put forth. “I’m more comfortable with [the way it’s been going] and don’t want this to be a show from the top down. The idea is to have this be a middle-America show, a [program] where regular folks can [share] what they’re thinking.”

That philosophy didn’t preclude certain luminaries from voluntarily calling in, as Springer discovered when he was discussing the energy issue.

A caller identified himself to the screener as “Robert Kennedy” and it, indeed was the Robert F. Kennedy Jr. “My two idols were my father [Richard, a street vendor who sold stuffed animals] and, in terms of my political conscious, [RFK Jr.’s] father,” Springer noted. “It was a great thrill to talk with [RFK Jr.] – I was like a groupie.”                                                                    

Link to a legend

In addition to momentous, that particular conversation had to be more than a bit surreal for Springer and not simply because it was with a famous activist/fellow Air America Radio talk host. (Kennedy co-hosted Air America’s two-hour weekend “Ring Of Fire” with Mike Papantonio).

When he graduated from college, Springer worked as a presidential campaign aide to Bobby Kennedy. After the New York Senator was assassinated inside Los Angeles’ Ambassador Hotel in June 1968, Springer joined a Cincinnati law firm and, in 1971, was elected to Cincinnati’s Council-at-Large.

With the largest plurality in the city’s history, the then 33-year-old Springer was elected Mayor of Cincinnati in 1977.

Potent platform

Air America Radio colleague Al Franken made no secret of his fervent desire to represent Minnesota in the U.S. Senate (which, of course, he did), while Springer’s name was frequently mentioned in a similar capacity in Ohio or in that State’s Governor’s office. “It’s possible that the day may come where I pursue either of those [offices],” acknowledged Springer, who made a Democratic gubernatorial bid in 1982. “I must say [though] I’m concentrating on this radio job right now. I didn’t realize it would take off this way when I started. This may turn out to be a bigger [stage] than any political office. I’m sure a year from now I’ll look at how my life is going, but I’m very excited about making this radio thing work.”

In addition to being the opening act for “Achy Breaky” Billy Ray Cyrus, Springer released his own country CD (“Dr. Talk”) and once dressed to play in the nets for the IHL’s Milwaukee Admirals.

With less and less free time, there wasn’t much for Springer to do other than be enticed by an occasional movie role (he played himself in at least a half-dozen films, including “Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me”) or television appearance. “I try to enjoy my weekends,” the steadfast New York Yankees fan confided. “It’s been depressing this year because they’ve played so abysmally [entering the 2005 All-Star break in third place, 2.5 games behind the defending 2004 World Series champion Boston Red Sox]. You reach a point in life where you make time for those things that have to do with the quality of life. I admit, however, it’s difficult because I’m carrying so many jobs at once.”  

Rolling along

 Being Mayor of Cincinnati – especially at such a young age – was easily one of Springer’s greatest political accomplishments, but the longtime local co-host on Jerry Lewis’ annual “Stars Across America” Labor Day Muscular Dystrophy Telethon and VP of the national MDA knew he arrived as a celebrity when he appeared on the May 14, 1998 cover of Rolling Stone Magazine. “That’s when it suddenly hit me that this is really big,” he laughed. “I’ve always kind of taken things with a grain of salt and have said that it’s only television, not life-changing.”

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry News

“Talk Radio and Podcasting” Panel Set for TALKERS 2023

One of the many informative highlights of the forthcoming TALKERS 2023 conference will be a special panel discussion focusing specifically on the medium of podcasting as it applies to and relates to professional talk radio broadcasters. According to TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey, “So much of the discussion of podcasting we see at media events around the country approach the subject from a very broad-strokes perspective and water down their focus to the thousands of amateurs in the game and micro-niches utilized for obscure interests. The effective utilization of podcasting from the perspective of talk radio professionals – as a tool to increase revenue, expand branding, offer on-demand distribution, produce ancillary products and extend independent careers – is a specific realm of focus. That’s what this panel will explore.” The session will include an introduction by Guy Benson, host, FOX News Radio; moderation by Lisa Wexler, host, WICC, Bridgeport, CT; and panelists Steve Goldstein, CEO, Amplifi MediaRon Hartenbaum, managing member, WYD MediaChris Oliviero, market president, Audacy New York; David Pakman, host, The David Pakman Show; and Larry Young, host, The Larry Young Podcast. Casey adds, “Each of these distinguished broadcasters brings a formidable level of expertise and field experience to the subject of podcasting’s role within the talk radio universe.” There will be more than 60 distinguished industry speakers at TALKERS 2023, the 26th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest running and most important annual gathering.  For more agenda, registration, sponsorship and hotel information, see story below or click here.

Industry News

Industry Analyzes Tucker Carlson and Don Lemon Exits

The news/talk media industry spent Monday afternoon digesting the one-two punch that FOX News and Tucker Carlson had parted ways and that CNN had fired longtime anchor and host Don Lemon. Whileimage conservatives were likely to cheer the news of Lemon’s dismissal, the Carlson departure was far more nuanced as it came a week after FOX agreed to a $787 million settlement with Dominion Voting Systems and after discovery in the case revealed imagetexts that offered a behind-the-scenes look at FOX News personalities’ frank opinions about the 2020 election, January 6, and their co-workers and bosses. The breaking news even prompted the vacationing Mike Gallagher to find a studio in London from which to do a special edition of his Salem Radio Network program today (4/25). Salem VP/news & talk programming Tom Tradup says, “Mike Gallagher’s programming instincts are second to none. Despite being on vacation overseas, he recognized the importance of the Tucker Carlson departure and insisted on parachuting back into his talk show to give listeners the chance to sound off of what likely will be one of the biggest political stories on 2023.”

Industry News

WWO Audio Active Group: The Power of AM/FM Radio in Cars

This week’s blog post by Cumulus Media | Westwood One’s Audio Active Group shows a brand-new comprehensive analysis of listening data from the Nielsen Fall 2022 Survey, MRI Simmons, Edison Research‘s “Share of Ear,” and Advertiser Perceptions “that reveal 82 million reasons to keep AM radio in vehicles, illustrating why AM/FM radio is still the queen of the road.” Citing the Nielsen Fall 2022 survey, the study concludes: 1) 82,346,800 Americans listen to AM radio monthly; 2) 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; and 3)ban One out of three American AM/FM radio listeners are reached monthly by AM radio. From the Edison study: 1) AM/FM radio dominates listening in the car with an 88% share of ad-supported audio; 2) AM/FM radio’s near-90 share of in-car ad-supported audio has been steady as a rock for the last six years; 3) AM/FM radio’s ad-supported shares in the car are dominant across all demographics, even among 18-34s; and 4) ‘Perception’ vs. ‘reality’: Agencies and advertisers underestimate AM/FM radio shares and overestimate Pandora and Spotify audiences (‘Perception’ from Advertiser Perceptions data). MRI Simmons shows Ford owners represent 20% of all U.S. AM radio listeners and are more likely to listen to AM radio. Cumulus chief insights officer Pierre Bouvard comments, “AM stations serve very unique, targeted constituencies and represent many languages and voices. As automobile manufacturers consider eliminating AM radio, it’s important to underscore that the AM dial is one of the most diverse media platforms in the world. Why would we eliminate this variety from the car?” See the blog post here.

Industry News

Rounds Three and Four of March PPMs Released

Rounds three and four of Nielsen Audio’s March 2023 PPM survey have been released for 24 markets including: Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, Columbus, Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen’s March 2023 sweep covered March 2 – March 29. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from these markets. In Portland, Alpha Media news/talk KXL-FM falls 1.3 shares to a 5.7 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) but stays in the #4 rank, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk KEX-AM dips a full share for a 2.4 share finish that leaves it ranked #16. Bonneville’s Salt Lake City news/talk KSL-AM/FM adds one-tenth for a 5.1 finish that lifts it to the #4 rank, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk KNRS-AM/FM dips three-tenths to finish the survey with a 4.8 share good for the #6 rank. And in Milwaukee, iHeartMedia news/talk WISN falls one-tenth to a 9.7 share that leaves it ranked #2, while Good Karma Brands’ news/talk WTMJ rises four-tenths for a 7.4 share repeating in the #4 rank. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways here.

Ratings Takeaways

March 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways — Rounds 3 and 4

March 2023 PPM Data – Information for the March 2023 ratings period has been released for Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, Columbus, Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford.

Nielsen Audio’s March 2023 sweep covered March 2 – March 29.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are February 2023 – March 2023 (6+).

PORTLAND

News/Talk: Alpha Media’s KXL “FM 101 News” 7.0 – 5.7, -1.3, locked in fourth-place

iHeartMedia-owned KEX “News Radio 1190” 3.4 – 2.4, -1.0, #9 to #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB 7.2 – 7.4, +.2, repeats at #3

KOPB’s internet stream 1.3 – 2.0, +.7, #21 to #20

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KKCW, first month, 8.7 – 10.2, +1.5

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KKCW (+1.5)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: news/talk KXL and triple A KINK (-1.3)

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk: Urban One-owned WBT AM & WBT-FM “Charlotte’s News Talk” 5.5 – 5.2, -.3, remains in fourth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One’s WFNZ-FM “Sports Radio 92.7” (Hornets) 2.0 – 2.6, +.6, #15 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: University Radio Foundation’s WFAE 3.5 – 3.8, +.3, #13 to #11

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group urban AC WBAV, third straight month, 8.7 – 7.9, -.8

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: gospel WPZS (+.9)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: classic rock WRFX (-.9)

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk: Alpha Media-owned KTSA “Stay Connected” 3.7 – 3.6, -.1, #10 to #13

iHeartMedia’s WOAI “News Radio 1200” (Spurs) 3.3 – 3.4, +.1, continues at #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Texas Public Radio’s KSTX 2.0 – 1.8, -.2, #15 to #18

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM, third consecutive month, 8.9 – 7.8, -1.1

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: country KCYY (+1.1)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KONO-FM (-1.1)

SACRAMENTO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM “News 1530 AM & 93.1 FM” 9.5 – 9.4, -.1, #1

KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM cluster-mate KSTE-AM “Talk 650” 4.7 – 4.2, -.5, fifth to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KHTK “Sacramento Sports 1140” (Kings) 1.2 – 1.3, +.1, steady at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Capital Public Radio-owned KXJZ 3.8 – 3.5, -.3, ninth to tenth

Number One 6+: news/talk KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM, third month in succession, 9.5 – 9.4, -.1

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: rock KRXQ (+1.1)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KYMX (-.8)

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk: Audacy’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020 AM” 3.9 – 3.5, -.4, #10 to #13

KDKA-AM’s internet stream .9 – .7, -.2, flat at #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan All Sports All The Time” (Pirates) 6.0 – 6.8 +.8, locked in fourth place

Public Radio News/Talk: Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting’s WESA 4.2 – 3.9, -.3, #9 to #12

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW, fourth month in a row, 11.3 – 10.8, -.5

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: country WDSY (+1.3)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WWSW and hot AC WLTJ (-.5)

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” 5.0 – 5.1, +.1, sixth to fourth

iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM “Talk Radio” 5.1 – 4.8, -.3, fifth to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Utah’s KUER 3.2 – 3.3, +.1, #14 to #11

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KSFI, fifth straight month, 10.8 – 12.0, +1.2

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KSFI (+1.2)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: hot AC KBZN (-1.2)

LAS VEGAS

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KMXB-HD3 “101.5 K-Dawn The Talk Of Las Vegas” 2.3 – 2.0, -.3, #18 to #19

KMXB-HD3 cluster-mate KXNT “News Talk 840” 1.8 – 1.7, -.1, repeats at #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR 1.9 – 1.7, -.2, #19 to #20

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE, sixth successive month, 9.3 – 10.0, +.7

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: regional Mexican KLUC-HD3 (+.8)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian KSOS and classic rock KXPT  (-.9)

Note: KDWN signed off on March 2; its news/talk programming segued to KMXB-HD3.

ORLANDO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKS “Real Radio 104.1” 5.2 – 5.0, -.2, repeats in eighth-place

Cox Media Group-owned WDBO “Orlando’s News Talk” 4.0 – 3.7, -.3, #10 to #11

WTKS cluster-mate WFLF “Orlando News Radio” .6 – .7, +.1, #22 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Community Connections-owned WMFE 2.6 – 2.1, -.5, #15 to #16

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMGF, fifth consecutive month, 8.5 – 8.9, +.4

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: urban AC WCFB (+1.6)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: country WWKA (-1.3)

CINCINNATI

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WLW “700 Cincinnati’s News Radio” (Reds) 10.9 – 11.1, +.2, #1

cluster-mate WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” 4.1 – 3.3, -.8, #8 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Cincinnati Public Radio’s WVXU 4.3 – 4.4, +.1, repeats in seventh-place

Number One 6+: news/talk WLW, 14th consecutive month, 10.9 – 11.1, +.2

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WGRR (+1.3)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: news/talk WKRC (-.8)

CLEVELAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTAM “News Radio 1100” (Cavaliers and Guardians) 5.1 – 5.2, +.1, anchored in tenth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” 4.0 – 4.8, +.8, #12 to #11

WKRK’s internet stream 1.5 – 1.1, -.4, flat at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: Kent State University-owned WKSU 5.5 – 5.7, +.2 seventh to eighth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI, fifth month in a row, 11.1 – 10.0, -1.1

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WENZ (+1.0)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WMJI (-1.1)

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KMBZ-FM “98.1 FM News, Traffic, Weather” 4.8 – 4.4, -.4, sixth to ninth

KMBZ-FM cluster-mate KMBZ-AM “Talk 980 AM” 1.3 – 1.2, -.1, #19 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KCSP “Sports Radio 610 Our Teams, Our Town” (Royals) 3.0 – 2.1, -.9, #14 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KCUR 3.8 – 5.0, +1.2, ninth to fifth

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies KCMO-FM, first month, 8.1 – 8.3, +.2

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: country KFKF (+1.3)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: sports talk KCSP (-.9)

COLUMBUS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WTVN “News Radio 610” 6.7 – 6.0, -.7, third to sixth   

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Tegna-owned WBNS-FM “97.1 FM The Fan” (Blue Jackets) 5.8 – 6.2, +.4, fifth to fourth

Public Radio News/Talk: Ohio State University’s WOSU 7.2 – 6.2, -1.0, second to fourth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia country WCOL, fifth straight month, 8.9 – 9.5, +.6

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WNND (+.9)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk WOSU (-1.0)

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media Group’s KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 5.5 – 5.6, +.1, fifth to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio-owned KTXX “The Horn” steady at 1.9, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas’ KUT 5.6 – 5.3, -.3, fourth to fifth

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media Group adult hits KBPA, third month in succession, 9.6 – 8.7, -.9

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: classic rock KLBJ-FM (+1.0)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: adult hits KBPA (-.9)

 RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 8.0 – 8.3, +.3, anchored in the runner-up slot

News: Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” 2.4 – 2.5, +.1, #14 to #15

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 2.7 – 3.1, +.4, #13 to #11

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 7.4 – 7.5, +.1, repeats in third-place

Number One 6+: Urban One urban AC WFXC, third straight month, 10.5 – 9.6, -.9

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: regional Mexican WYMY (+.9)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: urban AC WFXC (-.9)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Urban One’s WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 8.0 – 8.1, +.1, third to second

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” steady at 2.9, remains at #12

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” .5 – .7, +.2, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 4.8 – 4.9, +.1, eighth to seventh

Number One 6+: Urban One adult contemporary WYXB, second month in a row, 9.2 – 9.0, -.2

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WZRL (+.5)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WJJK (-1.3)

MILWAUKEE

 News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 9.8 – 9.7, -.1, first to second

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Bucks and Brewers) 7.0 – 7.4, +.4, repeats in fourth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” 1.0 – 1.3, +.3, #18 to #16

Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” flat at 1.1, #15 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 3.9 – 2.1, -1.8, #11 to #15

Wisconsin Educational Communications Board’s WHAD 1.1 – 1.0, -.1, #15 to #18

Number One 6+: Saga Communications classic rock WKLH, first month, 9.2 – 10.6, +1.4

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: urban AC WJMR (+2.1)*

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk WUWM (-1.8)

*Represents the largest February 2023 – March 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 24 PPM-markets

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 6.6 – 6.9, +.3, repeats in fourth-place

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 1.1 – 1.0, -.1, #18 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” 4.4 – 4.9, +.5, eighth to sixth  

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) flat at 1.1, anchored at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 3.0 – 2.8, -.2, continues at #12

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA, second month in succession, 14.3 – 14.7, +.4

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: country WSM-FM (+.9)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WUBT (-.5)

PROVIDENCE

 News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 4.9 – 6.0, +1.1, seventh to sixth

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .4 – .3, -.1, flat at #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Bruins and Celtics) 3.8 – 3.6, -.2, locked in eighth-place

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 2.5 – 2.3, -.2, #11 to #10

The internet stream of Cumulus Media’s WPRV “790 The Score” .1, #20; unlisted in February 2023

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.8 – 3.2, -.6, eighth to ninth

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 2.0 – 1.7, -.3, #13 to #14

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI, sixth month in succession, 8.2 – 9.8, +1.6

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WWLI (+1.6)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WNBH (-1.2)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” flat at 2.6, #12 to #13

News: iHeartMedia-owned WNOH “BIN 105.3 Because Truth Matters” steady at .3, anchored at #20

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” unchanged at 1.8, remains at #16

Sinclair’s WTAR “Sports Radio 850” flat at .3, stays at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, third straight month, 10.0 – 10.9, +.9

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: urban AC WVKL (+.9)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: country WGH-FM (-1.4)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 7.4 – 7.0 -.4, third to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.8 – 3.3, -.5, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia country WQIK, first month, 9.2 – 8.7, -.5

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: rock WWJK (+.9)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WEJZ (-1.2)

 WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 2.1 – 1.9, -.2, #10 to #11

WZZR cluster-mate WJNO “News Radio 1290” 1.5 – 1.6, +.1, #13 to #12

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 1.0 -1.1, +.1, continues at #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” (Florida Panthers) .7 – .5, -.2, #16 to #18

iHeartMedia-owned WBZT “Sports Radio 1230 The Gambler” steady at .2, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 2.6 – 2.1, -.5, eighth to tenth

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting classic hits-oldies WEAT, second straight month, 10.2 – 10.4, +.2

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: regional Mexican WLLY (+1.0)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: urban AC WMBX (-.9)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 4.9 – 5.1, +.2, locked in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 2.4 – 2.6, +.2, #10 to #11

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.5 – 1.3, -.2, repeats at #15

Number One 6+: Audacy adult hits WSMW, third month in a row, 12.5 – 12.8, +.3

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: CHR WKZL (+.6)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: classic rock WKRR (-.8)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.9 – 2.3, -.6, #13 to #11

Starnes Media Group-owned KWAM “News Talk Memphis The Mighty 990” .4 – .2, -.2, #23 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 4.0 – 3.8, -.2, repeats in seventh-place

WFMS’ internet stream .5 – .7, +.2, #19 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.1 – 1.6, +.5, #16 to #13

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS, first month, 10.4 – 10.1, -.3

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: gospel WHAL (+.6)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WHRK (-.8)

Note: Number one the past 15 months, Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO is unlisted in March 2023

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 5.7 – 5.4, -.3, repeats in sixth-place

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” 1.0 – 1.3, +.3, #16 to #15

WTIC-AM’s internet stream .2 – .4, +.2, #21 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 1.6 – 1.7, +.1, continues at #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 5.3 – 5.4, +.1, seventh to sixth

New England Public Media’s WFCR flat at .4, carries on at #19

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 38th month in a row, 13.7 – 11.7, -2.0

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: hot AC WTIC-FM (+1.6)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WRCH (-2.0)**

**Represents the largest February 2023 – March 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 24 PPM-markets

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Ratings Takeaways

March 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

March 2023 PPM Data – Information for the March 2023 sweep has been released for Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis.

Nielsen Audio’s March 2023 sweep covered March 2 – March 29.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are February 2023 – March 2023 (6+).

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk: Cumulus Media‘s WMAL-FM 4.3 – 4.0, -.3, #7 rank

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 8.9 – 9.0, +.1, repeats in second-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” (Capitals and Nationals) 2.8 – 2.7, -.1, continues at #13

WJFK-FM’s internet stream 1.1 – .8, -.3, flat at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU 12.1 – 12.0, -.1, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, 16th month in succession, 12.1 – 12.0, -.1

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: urban AC WMMJ (+1.2)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian WGTS (-1.4)

BOSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” steady at 4.1, remains in ninth-place

News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” 4.6 – 4.4, -.2, sixth to seventh

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Celtics and Bruins) 7.5 – 8.1, +.6, #1

Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” (Red Sox) 3.2 – 2.6, -.6, #13 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 4.5 – 4.7, +.2, seventh to fifth

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.4 – 3.7, +.3, anchored at #12

Number One 6+: sports talk WBZ-FM, third consecutive month, 7.5 – 8.1, +.6

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: sports talk WBZ-FM (+.6)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: sports talk WEEI-FM (-.6)

MIAMI

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board-owned WLRN 5.3 – 4.3, -1.0, fourth to seventh

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group urban AC WHQT, first month, 8.4 – 9.5, +1.1

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WEDR (+1.5)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk WLRN (-1.0)

SEATTLE

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” 5.4 – 4.8, -.6, fifth to sixth

News: Lotus Communications’ KNWN-AM/FM “Northwest News Radio” 4.3 – 4.1, -.2, ninth to tenth

Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” (Mariners) 2.4 – 3.1, +.7, #18 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio’s KUOW 5.5 – 5.1, -.4, repeats in fourth-place

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KJEB, first month, 5.9 – 7.2, +1.3

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: country KKWF (+2.1)*

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: triple A KPNW (-1.5)

*Represents the largest February 2023 – March 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

DETROIT

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 2.6 – 3.0, +.4, #16 to #14

News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” (Pistons) 5.0 – 4.8, -.2, repeats in ninth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Red Wings and Tigers) 6.3 – 6.2, -.1, fourth to third

WXYT-FM’s internet stream 1.3 – 1.8, +.5, stays at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 2.8 – 2.6, -.2, #15 to #16

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia CHR WKQI, first month, 7.3 – 8.3, +1.0

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: CHR WKQI (+1.0)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: classic rock WLLZ (-1.0)

PHOENIX

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” flat at 3.0, #9 to #12

Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” (Sun) unchanged at 2.9, #11 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona’s Sports Station” (Sun and Arizona Diamondbacks) 2.8 – 2.3, -.5, #14 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College-owned KJZZ 7.4 – 6.4, -1.0, first to third

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting classic rock KSLX, first month, 6.4 – 7.5, +1.1

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: classic rock KSLX and adult hits KYOT (+1.1)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: rhythmic CHR KALV (-1.2)

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” (Minnesota Timberwolves and Minnesota Twins) 3.0 – 3.9, +.9, #15 to #12

iHeartMedia’s KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” 2.4 – 2.9, +.5, #18 to #14

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KTMY “My Talk 107.1” 3.4 – 2.8, -.6, #13 to #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” (Minnesota Wild) 5.6 – 6.1, +.5, eighth to sixth

Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW 6.6 – 6.7, +.1, repeats in third-place

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC KSTP-FM, first month, 6.0 – 7.9, +1.9

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: hot AC KSTP-FM (+1.9)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: country KMNB (-1.3)

SAN DIEGO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” 5.6 – 5.1, -.5, locked in fourth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” 1.6 – 2.6 (Padres), +1.0, #20 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS steady at 6.3, repeats in the runner-up slot

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KXSN, second successive month, 6.8 – 7.3, +.5

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: sports talk KWFN (+1.0)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: classic rock KGB-FM (-1.6)**

**Represents the largest February 2023 – March 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from the first 24 PPM-markets

TAMPA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” (Lightning) 4.4 – 4.6, +.2, ninth to eighth

iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” 2.1 – 2.3, +.2, repeats at #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” (Rays) 1.2 – 1.3, +.1, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 3.3 – 3.0, -.3, #11 to #12

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, 20th month in a row, 7.8 – 9.0

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WDUV (+1.2)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian WCIE (-.8)

DENVER

 News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOA “News Radio 850” 2.3 – 2.4 (Colorado Rockies), +.1, repeats at #17

KOA cluster-mate KHOW “Talk Radio 630” 2.0 – 2.3, +.3, continues at #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” (Nuggets) 4.2 – 3.5, -.7, #10 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 4.5 – 4.3, -.2, stays in eighth-place

Number One 6+: Bonneville country KYGO, first month, 4.9 – 6.2, +1.3

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: country KYGO (+1.3)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: classic rock KRFX (-1.2)

BALTIMORE

News/Talk: Hearst Television’s WBAL “News Radio 1090 AM & 101.5 FM” (Orioles) 3.5 – 3.4, -.1, #11 to #12

WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” 1.7 – 2.0, +.3, steady at #17

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 1.1, #19 (unlisted in February 2023)

News: Audacy-owned business news WDCH “Bloomberg 99.1 FM” .5 – .9, +.4, #25 to #20

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” 5.1 – 5.5, +.4, remains in fifth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 4.3 – 3.9, -.4, eighth to tenth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult hits WQSR, second straight month, 9.6 – 8.2, -1.4

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian WRBS-FM (+1.4)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: adult hits WQSR (-1.4)

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” (Cardinals) 5.0 – 4.9, -.1, remains in tenth-place

KMOX cluster-mate KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 2.3 – 2.1, -.2, flat at #16

iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-FM “104.9 The Patriot” .8 – .9, +.1, #19 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” (Blues) 3.2 – 3.0, -.2, continues at #13

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU flat at 3.8, repeats at #11

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting adult hits WARH, third month in succession, 9.8 – 10.6, +.8

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KEZK (+1.5)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: rock KSHE (-.6)

Up next: March 2023 overviews for Portland; Charlotte; San Antonio; Sacramento; Pittsburgh; Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Orlando; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Kansas City; and Columbus. 

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

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.