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The most discussed stories yesterday (1/14) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Trump Transition Hearings

2. LA Wildfires – Political Response and Accountability – Social Media Misinformation

3. Jack Smith Report – Trump Dangling Legal Issues

4. Israel-Hamas War-Hostage Situation / Russia-Ukraine War

5. Economy – DOGE / Migrant Crisis / Crime

Brian Lawlor, president, Scripps Sports, has been named the recipient of the Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) 2025 Golden Mic Award, to be presented at the annual black-tie fundraiser on Monday, March 10 at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. The BFOA is the only charity devoted exclusively to helping broadcasters in need from illness or tragedy…..Veteran broadcaster Michelle Jerson‘s weekly one-hour travel/parenting program “Passport Mommy” has been added to WPHT,Philadelphia on Saturdays at 12:00 noon.  The informational and entertaining show is distributed by Radio America.Stations interested can contact Jennifer Dedes at Radio America: jdedes@radioameria.com…..iHeartMedia announced (1/13) the latest podcast programming for iHeart Women’s Sports. Eight new shows will launch on the network in early 2025 featuring renowned female athletes like Ashlyn Harris, Mel Reid, Lexie Brown and more. The new expanded lineup further emphasizes iHeartMedia’s stated commitment to bringing equitable media coverage to women’s sports…..TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison is available to do interviews on talk shows across the nation to discuss the latest music video release by Gunhill Road (the perennial pop music ensemble in which he is a member) – an anthemic tribute to talk radio – which has been gathering tens of thousands of views and downloads around the globe. Harrison talks about the state of talk radio in 2025 and its continuing importance as a vital communications/cultural venue.  Harrison can be reached via email at info@talkers.com.  To view the video, please click HERE.

The top stories yesterday (1/13) on news/talk radio according to TALKERS research:

1. LA Wildfires – Political Response and Accountability – Social Media Misinformation

2. Jack Smith Report – Trump Legal Issues

3. Trump Transition Hearings

4. Israel-Hamas War / Russia-Ukraine War

5. Economy – DOGE / Migrant Crisis / Crime

FOX News Media (FNM) will unveil a series of programming changes across FOX News Channel (FNC) and FOX Business Network (FBN), announced FNM CEO Suzanne Scott. Beginning on January 21, FOX & Friends Weekend co-host Will Cain will take over the 4 PM/ET weekday timeslot on FNC with “The Will Cain Show.” FOX News contributor Charlie Hurt will replace Cain as co-host of “FOX & Friends Weekend” beginning January 18. “The Fox Report” and “The Big Weekend Show” will both expand to two hours on Saturdays and Sundays also starting on January 18. Additionally, FBN’s Dagen McDowell will join “The Big Money Show” which will expand from 12:00 noon – 2:00 pm ET on weekdays beginning on January 27 while she also continues to co-host “The Bottom Line” (6:00 – 7:00 pm ET).  In making the announcement, Scott said, “As the media landscape continues to evolve, we are always looking to innovate our programming lineup to meet the needs of our viewers, and we are confident the new lineup will best position FOX News Media for the future. Will Cain brings years of experience to the 4:00 pm hour as an accomplished broadcaster and a lawyer and we look forward to adding his insights to what will no doubt be another historic news cycle ahead this year.”

Cain added, “It has been an honor to wake up with America these past four years and I am thrilled to apply my background in news, law, entertainment and business to help our viewers better understand the headlines through thought-provoking content and analysis every weekday afternoon.”

Featuring conversations with newsmakers from across politics, business, culture and sports, The Will Cain Show will offer a comprehensive look at the news of the day in a signature podcast style. His last appearance on FOX & Friends Weekend will be on January 18th, following which Hurt will take over the role as co-host, joining Rachel Campos-Duffy on the curvy couch each weekend. In addition to his role as a FOX News contributor, Hurt currently serves as the opinion editor of The Washington Times. He will relinquish that position upon the start of his new role.

Beginning on January 18, “The FOX Report” anchored by Jon Scott will move to 3:00 pm ET expanding to two hours until 5:00 pm ET on Saturdays and Sundays while “The Big Weekend Show” which also airs on Saturdays and Sundays will expand to two hours from 6:00 – 8:00 pm ET beginning on the same day. Meanwhile, FOX News Live will continue airing from 10 AM-12 PM/ET on Saturdays featuring a rotating substitute anchor until a permanent replacement is named and the one-hour “Journal Editorial Report” will move to 2:00 pm ET on Saturdays.

On FBN, McDowell will join “The Big Money Show” which will expand to two hours from 12:00 noon -2:00 pm ET starting on January 27 where she will break down market news alongside co-hosts Taylor Riggs, Jackie DeAngelis, and Brian Brenberg.

As Michael Harrison wrote in TALKERS at the start of the new year’s first full week (1/6), “Each year at this time, I am invariably asked by broadcasters, reporters, and friends, ‘What do you think we’ll be talking about in the new year ahead?’  And each year I give the same answer:  THE UNEXPECTED.”

Here we go again. Within what seems like mere moments after the optimistic news broke that California was again gaining population after years of depletion, the apocalyptic wildfires that sprung out of heavy winds and dry conditions in the Pacific Palisades pounced upon L.A. County and circled its metro like a raging beast from hell – thrusting local radio into its familiar role as a vital informational first responder.  Add to that, radio’s invaluable service as an emotional support provider for a confused and terrified public is on display.  TALKERS is receiving reports from Southern California and points throughout the Golden State that radio is, indeed, rising to the occasion with many all-news, talk and public radio outlets taking a wall-to-wall, “all hands-on deck” personnel policy both in studio and remote scenarios. This is especially important in areas where the power has gone out and car or battery-driven radios provide instant access to weather, traffic and other vital facts. The fires have also set off figurative sparks in terms of political finger pointing and emotional venting regarding budgets, preparedness, and general political accountability. Major industries – housing, entertainment, sports, healthcare and public safety – are being shaken to the core. No venue performs the service of unpacking all that on a mass level better than live, local, spoken word radio.

Broadcasters Foundation to the Rescue. As the wildfires continue to rage and spread in the Los Angeles area, the Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) wants to remind broadcasters in Southern California that Emergency Grants are available for those who qualify.  “We have set aside Emergency Grant Dollars to provide financial assistance to broadcasters in LA who are in need,” stated Tim McCarthy, president of the Broadcasters Foundation.

The BFOA Emergency Grant Application Process is streamlined to deliver financial aid to those in need as speedily as possible, usually within weeks.  Historically, it can take a week or more for victims of disasters like these wildfires to apply because their lives have been upended and they may not have immediate access to the internet, etc. For those broadcasters, the BFOA has set up an emergency phone number at 212-373-8250. To apply directly on line, broadcasters may go to www.broadcastersfoundation.org

Premiere’s “Your Morning Show with Michael DelGiorno” Joins Albuquerque’s The Rock of Talk – AM 1600 KIVA.  AM 1600 KIVA announced (1/8) the addition of “Your Morning Show with Michael DelGiorno” to the station’s weekday lineup, effective immediately.  The program joins the station live in the Monday through Friday, 4:00 am – 7:00 am MST timeslot.  DelGiorno joins The Rock of Talk’s blue-chip lineup that includes “The Glenn Beck Program,” “The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show,” “The Sean Hannity Show,” “The Jesse Kelly Show,” “The Bill O’Reilly Show,” “Coast to Coast AM with George Noory” and others. “I couldn’t be happier to offer nearly 24 hours of live programming on the station, and having Michael DelGiorno on board makes this even more possible!” said Eddy Aragon, owner of AM 1600 KIVA – The Rock of Talk. “’Your Morning Show with Michael DelGiorno’ is another top-notch show from a quality company that advertisers will absolutely love.”  “I’m so thankful for the opportunity to connect with Albuquerque listeners,” said DelGiorno. “We appreciate Eddy’s trust and look forward to making our mark on The Rock of Talk!”

Dr. Daliah Wachs Celebrates TMN Syndicated Show’s “Sweet 16” Anniversary.  TALKERS Heavy Hundred member Dr. Daliah Wachs’ show turns 16 today.  The Las Vegas-based physician and highly respected talker of medical and social issues launched the show at KLAV as a single station entity back on January 9, 2009, and then added KDWN January 31st that same month. Wachs is a nationally recognized leader in healthcare media on a number of fronts from charity initiatives to consciousness raising. The program was recently picked up by syndicator Talk Media Network (TMN) where Wachs tells TALKERS she is excited to be and is optimistic about the successful program’s continuing growth. The show airs live daily during middays.

The top story yesterday (1/8) on news/talk radio and related media venues was the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. In addition to prompting around the clock public safety information, the natural disaster stirred up emotional conversation about political accountability and speculation about what lies ahead in terms of the economy, housing, the environment, and SoCal-based industries including entertainment, tourism, and sports.  That was followed by heated analysis of the changes at Meta and Facebook regarding censorship and fact checking.  Discussion also continued about the many facets of the presidential transition currently underway, the state of Trump’s dangling legal issues, and U.S. foreign relations per the Middle East and Eastern Europe according to the ongoing research of TALKERS.

FOX Sports Radio Features Live Broadcast from Orange Bowl.  FOX Sports Radio’s “Two Pros and Cup of Joe” with (pictured above l-r) Brady Quinn, LaVar Arrington and Jonas Knox will broadcast live from Fort Lauderdale, beginning this morning (1/8), as part of the network’s coverage of the Orange Bowl featuring a matchup between Quinn’s alma mater Notre Dame and Arrington’s alma mater Penn State tomorrow (1/9). With a spot in the National Championship on the line for the Fighting Irish and Nittany Lions, “Two Pros and a Cup of Joe” will bring all the excitement before, during and after the game as the show broadcasts live from 6:00 am – 9:00 am ET at Le Meridien Dania Beach, the media hotel for the game, from January 8 – 10, 2025.  “Two Pros and a Cup of Joe” featuring Quinn – former Notre Dame Quarterback who set 36 single-season and career records, and was a first-round draft pick; LaVar Arrington – College Football Hall of Famer, three-time Pro Bowl Linebacker and No. 2 overall draft pick; and sports radio veteran Jonas Knox is available nationwide on more than 380 stations, in addition to FOX Sports Radio’s channel on iHeartRadio and www.FOXSportsRadio.com.

iHeartMedia and the National Football League Extend Their Multi-Year NFL Podcast Network Partnership. iHeartMedia, the  and the National Football League (NFL) today (1/8) announced an extension to the exclusive partnership that first launched the NFL Podcast Network in 2021. As part of the deal, new original podcasts and NFL Club shows will debut each year, and existing favorites will continue to be available on the NFL Podcast Network. Additionally, iHeart will identify other existing podcasts to join the NFL Podcast Network during the deal, growing the partnership’s reach and scale.  “The NFL Podcast Network continues to grow and capture new audiences, and we’re thrilled to strengthen the successful partnership between iHeart and the NFL with new shows and the addition of more team podcasts,” said Will Pearson, president of iHeartPodcasts. “Our new extended deal is guaranteed to bring fans closer to the game, players and teams they love and keep listeners up to date on the insider information they want to hear.” “We are incredibly excited to continue our partnership with iHeartMedia,” said Brent Lawton, NFL VP of business development and strategic investments. “Since its launch in 2021, the NFL Podcast Network has delivered NFL fans best-in-class storytelling and podcast content, and we look forward to developing new podcasts and more content with iHeart.” The first new show for 2025,“Lots To Say with Bobby Bones and Matt Cassel,” will pair iHeart’s nationally syndicated personality Bobby Bones with former Pro Bowl NFL quarterback Matt Cassel as they talk football, music, current events and their personal lives. Based in Nashville, the hosts will be joined in the studio by celebrity friends as they discuss the hottest topics in football and beyond. Upcoming guests will include music sensations Tim McGraw and Parker McCollum; NFL greats Jared Allen and Boomer Esiason; and more.

Mark Walters’ Syndicated “Armed American Radio” Shows Continue Growth. The long-running, liberty-based syndicated show “ArmedAmericanRadio” and its sister property “AARDailyDefense,” owned and hosted by one of the nation’s leading Second Amendment advocates, Mark Walters, continues to add affiliates.  Walters kicks off 2025 on a roll with new affiliates: KLID-AM, Poplar Bluff, MO; WBNR, Beacon, NY; WKDP-AM Corbin/Lexington, KY; WKDP-FM, Corbin/Lexington KY; KOMY-AM, Santa Cruz, CA; WLNA-AM, Peekskill, NY; WAJZ-FM, Albany, NY; and WGHQ-AM, Poughkeepsie, NY.  Walters, among his many civic activities, is on the Board of Directors of the Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms.

Newsmax Raises $150 Million in Pre-IPO Plan.*  Newsmax CEO Christopher Ruddy reports “We did it!” According to the ascending multi-platform news organization’s founder, “When we announced our plan to go public, we also announced our plan to raise $150 million in Preferred Shares before we became listed.”  Ruddy tells TALKERS, “I am glad to report Newsmax hit the $150 million* mark over the Christmas-New Year’s holiday. In fact, we have raised $153 million*, having exceeded our target by $3 million. And we have thousands of investors who are still in the process of buying Preferred Shares! So, Newsmax has decided to extend our offering to $175 million – an increase of $25 million above our target raise.”  Ruddy concludes, “Newsmax expects to close on the remaining $22 million remaining very soon.” Read More Here *NOTE: “Raised” includes closed proceeds and investments committed / in process of closing.

Alan Jurison Joins Quu to Lead Innovation and Special Projects.  Quu, Inc., an industry leader providing convenient deployment of visual content for radio, announces today (1/7) that Alan Jurison has joined the company to focus on special projects and innovation. Reporting to Joe Marshall, Quu’s senior director of technical services, Jurison will spearhead initiatives to enhance radio broadcasts with dynamic visual programming and sales messaging.  Jurison brings extensive experience from his time as senior operations engineer at iHeartMedia, where he was known for innovative work in technology and strategy. “Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about elevating radio technology and helping the industry understand the critical role of metadata, especially in the digital dashboard,” Jurison tells TALKERS. “Joining Quu is an incredible opportunity to build on that mission. I’m eager to contribute to this talented team’s efforts to strengthen radio stations’ relationships with their listeners and advertising clients.” “Alan’s innovative mindset and technical expertise make him an exceptional addition to Quu,” said Steve Newberry, CEO of Quu. “His vision aligns perfectly with our goals to help radio boost ratings and generate new revenue through visual solutions that engage and retain audiences.” Alan will be at CES in Las Vegas this week, where he looks forward to connecting with industry peers. Interested in meeting up? Contact Alan at ajurison@myquu.com.

BIN: Black Information Network, the 24/7 comprehensive national audio news network specializing in what it describes as “objective, accurate and trusted continual news with a Black voice and perspective,” today (1/6) announced Terry Foxx has joined as VP, news and content effective immediately.  In his new role, Foxx will be responsible for the day-to-day leadership of BIN: Black Information Network’s newsroom and its team of journalists, with a focus on development of news content and original programming.  “I am excited to have Terry join BIN: Black Information Network,” said Tony Coles, the network’s president. “In today’s rapidly changing media landscape, the role of news in shaping public discourse has never been more important. We’re confident his contributions will strengthen our position as a leader in delivering inclusive and impactful news and content to our audiences.”  Prior to his new role with BIN, Foxx served as regional director of talk programming for iHeartMedia Austin/San Antonio. His career includes roles at KUT-FM, University of Texas, and major stations such as WPLJ-FM, New York; B96, Chicago; KKDA-FM, Dallas; and WZGC-FM, Atlanta.

“I am thrilled to contribute to the growth and success of BIN: Black Information Network,” Foxx tells TALKERS. “BIN is a vital platform for amplifying diverse voices and delivering trusted, relevant news to our communities. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact and further strengthen the connection between BIN and the audiences we serve.”  BIN is distributed nationally through the iHeartRadio app, available across more than 250 platforms and 2,000 devices, as well as on local AM/FM broadcast radio stations across America, including Atlanta, Chicago, New York City, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C.

After 28 years on the job, FOX News (FOX News Network and FOX Business Network) host/commentator Neil Cavuto surprised his audience at the conclusion of his “Your World” show yesterday (12/19) by announcing that it would be his final show with the network. During his long run, the business news specialist – often on the receiving end of Donald Trump‘s ire – wore a number of hats at FOX and was known for his independence even when it meant taking on positions unpopular with the network’s base viewers. Cavuto closed the show with the following remarks, “This is it. The final segment, but today I also wanted to let you know this is my final show. I’m leaving FOX. I’ve been planning this day for some time, this just seemed like a good time. Now, some of you might be thinking, ‘well, Neil, it is about time!’ After all, I’ve been doing this for nearly three decades here. You know, there are people working with me now, who weren’t even born when I started at FOX — that’s how old I am. But I’m not leaving journalism, I’m just leaving here. But I’m forever grateful to my bosses here. They have been very good to me these many years and offered a very generous opportunity for me to stay years more.”  To view Cavuto’s full closing remarks from yesterday’s broadcast, please click HERE.

TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison will be spending a large part of his holiday doing media interviews across America in support of the new Gunhill Road music video, “Don’t Stop Talking.”  The song is an anthem co-written and performed with his bandmates Steve Goldrich, Paul Reisch, and Brian Koonin in celebration of talk radio. The video component of the project, produced by TALKERS associate publisher Matthew B. Harrison, features clips and images of almost 100 different talk show hosts in action from across the industry.  The powerful words and extremely catchy music extoll the virtues of talk radio as a platform for freedom. It encourages hosts and listeners from varied positions on the ideological, geographic, and demographic spectrum to continue using the venue to exercise their First Amendment rights.  It contains lines such as “As long as you’ve got a VOICE, don’t ever stop,” “As long as you’ve got TRUTH, don’t ever stop,” and “As long as you’ve got LOVE, don’t ever stop.”  During the first week of the song’s release, Harrison has appeared on several shows including “The Todd Starnes Show” on Newsmax 2 (pictured above); Walter Sterling‘s “Sterling Every Damn Night” on WPHT, Philadelphia; Harry Hurley‘s “Hurley in the Morning” on WPG, Atlantic City;  “The Dr. Daliah Wachs Show” on Talk Media Network; “The Talk Radio Countdown Show with Doug Stephan” on Radio America and Stephan Multimedia; “The Jeff Katz Show” on WRVA, Richmond;  “Liberty Watch Radio with Charles Heller” on KVOI, Tuson; and “Joe Thomas in the Morning” on WTON, Taunton, VA and TMN.  Appearances coming up Christmas week include “The Howie Carr Show on WRKO, Boston and the Howie Carr Radio Network; “The Other Side of Midnight with Frank Morano” on the Red Apple Audio Network” (including WABC, New York, WGN, Chicago); and more. Harrison uses the opportunity to discuss the virtues and importance of talk radio in American society, the rapid changes underway in media and technology, and the evolution of pop music as a means of social/political commentary.  Harrison plans to book interviews into January of 2025 in support of the project.  To arrange an interview, please email info@talkers.com. To view the “Don’t Stop Talking” music video, please click HERE.

Rich Eisen Will Replace Jim Rome in the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET Time Slot on the Radio on Infinity Sports Network in Early 2025.According to the New York Post, “The Jim Rome Show” – nicknamed “The Jungle” – will be moving to the 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm ET slot and be independently syndicated by Westwood One. Rome hinted at the news when he teased a big show announcement for Monday in a post on X over the weekend. Infinity is a partnership between Audacy and Westwood One. Rich Eisen’s show can also be found on Roku and every relevant podcast platform, with highlights additionally posted on YouTube and through a Yahoo Sports portal. Eisen was previously a part of iHeart’s Fox Sports Radio lineup, and since exiting that network in 2020 he’s been syndicated by Westwood One.The rest of the Infinity lineup includes shows hosted by Maggie Gray and Andrew Perloff, Bill Reiter and Zach Gelb. To read the entire New York Post story, please click HERE.

Kicking off 2025, Stephanie Miller’s Live “Sexy Liberal Show” Books January Date at Warner Theater in DC. Progressive talk radio legend Stephanie Miller and her long-running, successful live review, “The Sexy Liberal Show,” have booked an upcoming appearance on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the historic Warner Theater in Washington, DC.  In addition to Miller, the program features regulars, John Fugelsang, Hal Sparks, and Frangela (Francis Callier and Angela V. Shelton). The show’s producers tell TALKERS, this evolving live road show gives Miller fans (“Steph Heads”) the opportunity “to rally the resistance, laugh through the chaos, and gear up for the fight ahead.” As is customary, the show will also feature soon-to-be-announced special guests.  For those who cannot make it in person to the show, it will be available via pay-per-view.   For more information, please click HERE.

Atlanta Hawks and Audacy today (12/13) Extend Their Multi-Year Relationship to Continue Making Sports Radio 92.9 The Game (WZGC-FM) the flagship station of the Atlanta Hawks Radio Network. As part of this agreement, all 82 Hawks NBA games can be heard throughout Georgia on the Atlanta Hawks Radio Network, which consists of affiliate stations in multiple markets and reach millions of listeners throughout the season.  Atlanta Sports Hall of Famer and Georgia Radio Hall of Famer Steve Holman, also known as the Voice of the Hawks, is in his 40th season and has never missed a Hawks’ regular season or playoff radio broadcast. Holman has totaled more than 3,000 consecutive games. Joining him on the broadcast is station brand manager Mike Conti, who has been with the Hawks Radio Network as a pregame, halftime and postgame host, and as a game commentator, since 2014. “We’ve taken great pride in seeing the growth and success of Sports Radio 92.9 The Game as the flagship station of the Atlanta Hawks Radio Network since its inception,” said Hawks’ president of business enterprise and chief commercial officer Andrew Saltzman. “We are excited that our growing fanbase will continue to enjoy Hawks basketball game coverage on The Game along with compelling sports talk every day from their line-up with the most talented hosts in the business.”  “We are proud to continue our long-standing relationship with the Atlanta Hawks,” said Rick Caffey, SVP/MM of Audacy Atlanta. “With our partnership now in its second decade, we look forward to continuing our comprehensive Hawks coverage on Sports Radio 92.9 The Game, V103, and worldwide on the Audacy app.”

Something Happenin’ Here!  The remarkable ratings rise, and buzz being created by Walter M Sterling‘s “Sterling Every Damn Night” (10:00 pm – 1:00 am) on Audacy’s WPHT, Philadelphia is worthy of the entire talk radio industry’s attention.  When he started in May, the time period was 18th with a 2.8 Total Adults in Nielsen. In his first month and first hour, the show got a 7.2, # 4. Now the November numbers are a 9.2, total adults, number 2 in Philadelphia.  This is AM only.  No FM.  All this reflects over the air listenership, no stream numbers included.  And to the best of our knowledge, there has been no marketing campaign attached to the success. It’s been organic.  Sterling (A.K.A. legendary consultant Walter Sabo) has taken quite an original approach to news/talk radio in performing the show – mixing a blend of old-time radio sounders and techniques with idiosyncratic, unexpected takes on everyday topics that impact people’s daily lives.  He is clever, funny, surprising and extremely irreverant… And it’s working big time.  A word to the wise: check it out. Don’t let this spark go unfanned.

iHeartMedia Milwaukee’s News/Talk 1130 WISN, the most listened-to radio station in Wisconsin, today announced its new prime-time lineup for 2025, effective January 2, 2025. Michael Harrison describes WISN as “one of talk radio’s pound-for-pound ratings champions.” The new programming lineup features well-known, highly rated show hosts who have decades of broadcasting experience and achievement in the Milwaukee market. “WISN is one of the great success stories in the radio industry over the past decade, in terms of both ratings and overall influence,” said Jeff Tyler, area president for HeartMedia Wisconsin. “We are confident that this latest evolution of WISN’s powerful lineup will meet and exceed the expectations of our listeners and our sponsors.”

Here is the Monday – Friday lineup with brief descriptions:

“The Jay Weber Show” (6:00 am – 9:00 am). The new WISN lineup is built on the same solid foundation as the previous lineup. “The Jay Weber Show” continues its legacy as the highest-rated morning show in Milwaukee, with Jay Weber drawing upon 30+ years of broadcast experience in Milwaukee to offer analysis on the biggest stories of the day, delivered with insight and irreverence.

“The Benjamin Yount Show” (9:00 am – 11:00 am). WISN news director Benjamin Yount retains that title and those duties, while adding an opinion-based analytical show in this late morning slot. For the past several years, Yount has been a primary guest-host on all of WISN’s local programs, and has become known for his candid, no-nonsense perspective.

“Clay Travis and Buck Sexton” (11:00 am – 2:00 pm). Syndicated by the Premiere Radio Networks, Travis and Sexton have amassed the largest radio audience in America, with over 500 affiliates nationwide. Their show tackles the highest profile topics from politics to pop culture, and everything in between.

“The Vicki McKenna Show” (2:00 pm – 3:00 pm). McKenna has been a WISN mainstay since 2007, entertaining and informing listeners with opinions and insights delivered with unparalleled passion. This hour can also be heard in Madison, via simulcast on WIBA-AM.

“The Dan O’Donnell Show” (3:00 pm – 6:00 pm). O’ Donnell takes his top-rated midday show, expands it from two to three hours in length, and moves it to afternoon drive. A former winner of an Edward R. Murrow Award for radio journalism, O’ Donnell blends investigative reporting and hard-hitting commentary with a contemporary style of using audio and the overall radio medium to craft a unique, compelling program that has exploded in popularity.

WLS 890 AM, Chicago Morning Host Ramblin’ Ray Stevens Kicks Off “The 12 Strays of Christmas,” Highlighting PAWS Chicago Pets in Need of Forever Homes This Holiday Season.  Every day for 12 weekdays starting yesterday (12/5), WLS 890 AM morning host, Ramblin’ Ray Stevens is featuring on-air and on social media a PAWS Chicago pet that’s available for adoption. PAWS Chicago is a no-kill animal shelter for homeless pets.  Kicking off the parade of adorable, adoptable pets was Finley, an energetic and playful three-month-old puppy with a heart full of love and a tail that never stops wagging! With soft, fluffy fur and floppy ears, he’s always on the move, ready for a game of fetch or a snuggle on the couch. Stevens tells TALKERS, “We call them rescues, as if we are saving them, when in fact, they are actually saving us. Nothing will ever love you like a shelter pet.”

WABC Radio Partners with GOYA Foods and Gristedes to Support PAL Annual Holiday Party.  WABC, New York has partnered with Goya Foods and Gristedes Supermarkets to support the Police Athletic League (PAL) Annual Holiday Party. Five thousand pounds of food will be handed out to 450 PAL families by WABC Radio owners John and Margo Catsimatidis and WABC Radio personalities Ernie Anastos and Dominic Carter. The event will take place at the PAL Harlem Center, 441 Manhattan Ave. and West 119th St., tomorrow (12/7).  “We are long-time supporters of PAL, an organization that has changed the lives of many at-risk youths,” said John Catsimatidis, who hosts a monthly luncheon to raise funds for PAL. “I want to thank Goya Foods for joining us to help PAL families enjoy the holidays with a healthy and satisfying meal.”  WABC is also running on-air promos, asking listeners for donations at wabcradio.com/pal.

Early Bird Deadline for the Milestone 50th Gracie Awards Approaching. The AWM Foundation invites all content creators to submit their exceptional work for the historic 50th Annual Gracie Awards. With the Early Bird Deadline approaching on December 12, 2024, now is the time to take advantage of discounted entry fees and secure your place in celebrating the best in media. As the Gracie Awards commemorate 50 years of recognizing excellence, it is more important than ever to honor the exceptional talent in front of and behind the camera and microphone across radio, podcasting, television, streaming, and online programs in news and entertainment. The Gracie Awards recognize contributions from journalists, actors, hosts, producers, showrunners, writers, directors, and other roles that bring impactful stories to life. Each entry directly supports the AWM Foundation, with the Gracies serving as the largest fundraiser of the year.  “This year’s milestone celebration reflects our continued commitment to honoring the talent that shapes the stories of our time,” said Becky Brooks, president of the AWM Foundation. “We encourage local media to participate and take advantage of the best rates and prepare to celebrate together in 2025.”  For a complete list of new and updated categories for 2025, pricing, and submission guidelines, please visit https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/call-for-entries/. Questions can be directed to gracies@allwomeninmedia.org.  The Gracie Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation which advances women in media through educational programs and scholarships. The Gracie Awards honors exemplary programming and individual talent created by, for and about women. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with the Emma Bowen Foundation, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), NCTA – The Cable and Telecommunications Association and other organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and the Gracie Awards please visit allwomeninmedia.org. For the latest news on the Gracies, follow The Gracies on Instagram, X, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Broadcasting Consultant Valerie Geller Drops Third Edition of Classic Book. Beyond Powerful Radio – The New Edition: An Audio Communicators Guide to the Digital World (Focal Press 2024).  In this newly updated edition, industry pros as well as aspirants will find a complete guide to becoming a successful communicator. Beyond Powerful Radio teaches time-tested techniques that work in any format – radio, TV, podcast, or digital. Learn how to get, keep, and grow audiences with powerful storytelling, and become a dynamic presenter. This book holds the tools needed to create winning content; tell compelling stories; build your brand; develop talent; produce a show; report the news; sell; and write commercials. Practical tips and methods from over 50 top experts from across the world of media illuminate interviewing, managing talent, becoming an authentic personality, and getting started in the business. This fully revised edition features new sections on podcasting, social media, storytelling, artificial intelligence, and cross platform synergy.  Whether you’re a professional with years in the industry, an instructor with a class full of media hopefuls, or you are just starting out as a podcaster or radio host, this book will help you reach your goals. A full Instructor Manual is available with complete lesson plans for broadcast instructors.  For more info, please click HERE.

Newsmax launched on DIRECTV Latin America’s leading media technology company in connectivity and entertainment in the region – one recognized for its multi-platform experience.  The distribution move comes as millions around the globe are tracking news about the recent presidential election and the upcoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump.

Newsmax, now one of the leading cable news channels in the United States, began broadcasting live in early November on DGO, DIRECTV Latin America’s streaming and live TV platform.  “The addition of Newsmax to our lineup is part of the ongoing actions that DIRECTV Latin America is carrying out to offer the best content and consolidates our proposal, which is known for having the best in news, sports and entertainment,” said Leo Flores, VP of Own Content at Vrio Corp. “In addition, the user experience is superior because DGO’s streaming platform addresses new consumer trends and offers the possibility of viewing content from any mobile device,” Flores added.  DGO is available at no additional cost to DIRECTV subscribers in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Uruguay. Additionally, non-DIRECTV customers will also be able to access DGO through the multiple plans available. This move further expands Newsmax’s global presence as the channel now streams to DIRECTV Latin America’s Spanish-language streaming service subscribers using advanced AI-powered dubbing and subtitles, helping it efficiently scale global business growth and live localizations.  “Latin America is the second fastest-growing streaming market globally and DIRECTV Latin America is one of the largest multichannel players in the region,” Andy Biggers, senior vice president of content distribution of Newsmax, tells TALKERS. “We’re excited Newsmax is now available to DIRECTV and DGO viewers to get a U.S. perspective on global issues, especially those affecting Latin American interests,” he said.  Newsmax is the U.S.’s fourth highest-rated cable news channel and a recent Reuters Institute study found that Newsmax is one of the top 12 news brands in the country.  The channel has enjoyed tremendous 2024 ratings growth and is available in nearly 60 million U.S. pay TV homes through every major provider, including DirecTV, Dish, Comcast, Verizon, Optimum (Altice), Verizon, Spectrum and YouTube TV.

Veteran radio broadcaster Chick Pallotta, a.k.a. Francis Chick Powers, is the creator, executive producer, and host of a long-running, syndicated radio series of individual programs collectively entitled, “The Inside Stories Behind The Christmas Songs.”  These critically-praised programs feature many legendary songwriters of fond memory who explain how their classic, holiday hits originated. Currently, there’s a total of 43 programs: 20 Short-Form programs (crafted as entertainment and informative holiday features where all the verses of a particular Christmas song are wrapped around the songwriter’s narrative), and 23 two-minute programs, suitable for the live and local talk and news/talk stations, providing a type of holiday feel to their regular programming. Additional programs are produced and released yearly. Since 2011, Pallotta has been producing and syndicating these one-of-a-kind holiday vignettes.  During that time, hundreds of stations throughout the U.S.A. and Canada in mostly small, medium-sized and suburban markets, have aired the series. Thus far, the series is being carried on stations having 14 different formats.

Soon-to-turn 78-years old in January, an item on Chick Pallotta’s Christmas wishlist, is to license his intellectual property of interviews with the Christmas songwriters to one of the major radio conglomerates to run during the 2025 Christmas Season. It would include all the elements of his original productions for that company to produce – the scripts, the interview segments, the song soundbites, the music beds, etc. – as it sees fit.  And that company’s own in-house, star radio personality would host the series, thus exposing all of this unique and original content to a new and wider listening audience, carried even on multiple-owned stations in the same city having different formats in the major markets. Pallotta’s only stipulation in a potential agreement would be to protect his current radio affiliates which have provided their loyal and steadfast support to him over the years.   For more info about these available programming elements please click HERE.

Plus there’s more: Pallotta has established another platform for his intellectual property. He’s making on-screen video segments for use in a full, theatrical musical production. A live cast of singers is envisioned to perform a mix of both the traditional Christmas carols and secular holiday hits as well. The visuals are lead-ins, prior to the songs being sung. He’s currently looking for an investor. Just as iHeartRadio produces its “Jingle Ball” concert tour in Madison Square Garden and other select cities annually, Chick is hopeful that in Manhattan’s Theater District itself,  a similar, success story is achievable in a Broadway theater during the 2-month holiday season, running every year, as well.  For more info about the theatrical opportunity, please click HERE to watch three short video segments.  Chick Pallotta can be reached by phone at 718-375-1245.

Proving how important live and local weekend news/talk radio can be, New York City Mayor Eric Adams stopped by for an in-studio interview on this past weekend’s edition of “The Rob Astorino Show” (Saturdays 4:00 – 5:00 pm on 710 WOR), where he discussed the idea of working with “Border Czar” Tom Homan in the next administration, and shared his thoughts on the Daniel Penny subway chokehold trial. Pictured above: Astorino (left) and Adams (right) at iHeart’s NYC headquarters. To listen to Saturday’s show (11/30), most of which featured Adams’ guest appearance, please click HERE.

Pew Study:  Newsmax among Top U.S. News Brands.   The ratings competition for eyeballs and eardrums between multi-platform news content providers has grown increasingly fierce as burgeoning interest in politics – especially during this remarkably heated 2024 election cycle – has driven huge audiences to information venues seeking the latest data and ideological affirmation. The correlation between MSNBC’s notable ratings declines after the “Morning Joe” visit to Mar-a-Lago illustrated the sensitivity of branding and audience expectations within this volatile arena.  So, what media outlets did Americans turn to for political news during the heated 2024 presidential election?  Pew Research did some digging to find out and Newsmax has earned bragging rights for being among the top U.S. news brands for Americans seeking political news. The Pew survey for September of 2024 asked close to 10,000 Americans: “What news source do you turn to most often for political news?”  The question was open ended — with Pew giving no possible responses as respondents gave their own answers.  The Pew Study found Newsmax ranked among the top news outlets and networks and tied with media giants X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube — as respondents’ go-to source for citizens seeking political news. Newsmax even ranked ahead of the Associated Press and local news, and was just one percentage point behind NBC, CBS, MSNBC, and The New York Times.  Major established news outlets FOX News, CNN, and ABC News led the pack. “Multiple studies continue to show Newsmax is a major news player, and we are continuing to rise,” Newsmax Inc. CEO Chris Ruddy tells TALKERS. “The credit belongs to our team here and our viewers who are tired of old media and want the quality journalism we’re providing.” The Pew study confirms a recent Reuters Institute study that found Newsmax was one of the top 12 U.S. news brands for Americans.  The Reuters study found 8% of Americans — about 25 million Americans — turn to Newsmax on cable TV for their news at least weekly.  Starting as a conservative website, Newsmax was launched as an entrepreneurial initiative in 1998 by then-independent journalist Ruddy and expanded to include a TV network in 2014 .  Today, Newsmax estimates it reaches more than 40 million Americans through its television channels, online websites, and social media. The company has raised over $100 million for its Preferred Share Offering in its pre-IPO plan and expects to close soon.

Bloomberg Audio Renews Multi-Year Deal With Audacy.  Radio syndication firm, Key Networks and Bloomberg Audio, a leading provider of radio business news in the U.S., announce that Bloomberg Audio and Audacy have renewed their agreement to deliver Bloomberg Audio business and consumer news programming across the majority of Audacy’s 26 all-news and news talk stations. Audacy owns and operates many of the most influential news and news talk stations in America, including 92.3 FM and 1010 WINS in New York, News KNX-FM 97.1 and 1070 AM News Radio (KNX-AM/FM) in Los Angeles, WBBM Newsradio (WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM) in Chicago, and more. Bloomberg Audio has been Audacy’s primary business and consumer news provider for several years. Under the new multi-year agreement, Bloomberg Audio will continue to provide Audacy stations with access to its world-class radio news content, including live, customized reports, “Bloomberg Money Minutes,” and specialty features including: “Bloomberg Business of Sports,” “Bloomberg Business of Entertainment,” “Green Report,” “Small Business Report,” “Real Estate Report,” and more.  “We’re thrilled to extend our partnership with Bloomberg Radio, a trusted leader in business news, to continue delivering top-tier, timely financial and consumer content to our listeners,” said Jeff Sottolano, chief programming officer, Audacy. “This collaboration strengthens our commitment to providing unparalleled business news coverage across our all-news and news talk stations, ensuring our audiences have access to the insights and information they need.”

Rumble Will Host the Uncensored Fourth Season of “Surviving Barstool.” Rumble, the high-growth video platform and cloud services provider, announced that the much-anticipated fourth season of “Surviving Barstool” will move to Rumble, unedited and uncensored, beginning today (12/2). Rumble users and Barstool fans can subscribe to the Barstool Sports Rumble channel here and tune in to watch this season here. YouTube will only carry the censored version of “Surviving Barstool.” “Surviving Barstool” follows 24 of the biggest Barstool employees competing against each other for a $250,000 prize while trapped in the office. The final winner will be decided by the employees who were voted out along the way.

The bombshell news of President Joe Biden‘s pardoning of his son Hunter Biden‘s recent criminal conviction dominated all local programming for half the weekend (11/30 – 12/1) on America’s news/talk media outlets and promises to be a huge topic going into this first week in December.  Other than that, talk of tariffs, trade wars, and the ongoing transition of presidential power dominated this past weekend’s conversation, highlighted by yapping over highly controversial appointments to cabinet and department head positions in the forthcoming Trump Administration. Predictions, questions, and concerns over the coming massive migrant deportation took up lots of the conversation. There was also a lot of talk about how the new administration will impact the wars in the Middle East and Central Europe as well as abortion rights and health care according to the ongoing research of TALKERS.

Mural in a Phlash! During these dark, cold days of disappearing promotional budgets and AI voice tracking, how many radio personalities get their likeness painted in a mural on the side of a building?  Well, that warm honor came in one of the coldest places east of the Mississippi River to SiriusXM “’60s Gold” channel morning personality Phlash Phelps in Bradford, PA.  Pictured above: local artists and phans, Greg Souchick (l) and Rick Minard (r) expressed their appreciation for the popular music host with a huge mural on the side of a building in downtown Bradford at 181 Main Street.  Phelps was overwhelmed by the rendering and said he’s headed up to north central Pennsylvania to see it himself.  We’re not sure if any other radio talent has ever had such a tribute.  Phelps said, “I’ve had a racehorse named after me and a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol, but I’m truly stunned by this incredible mural.  My phans are phantastic!”  Part of Phelps’ schtick is he spells all Fs with PH.  He is known for his fast-talking, retro style of broadcasting and for making American geography a focal point of his show. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, “Phelps is a remarkably creative disc jockey who uses the element of ‘talk’ in a most entertaining and productive way by tying local towns, villages and communities around America into his show and saluting each with special attention to detail. He is my seven-year-old grandson and geography buff, Oliver Harrison‘s favorite radio star. Don’t think I don’t take notice of such things.” Phelps is heard nationally on SXM’s channel 73 M-F 6:00 am – 12:00 noon ET.

We See a Pattern of Philanthropy Developing Here.77WABC, New York has continually been using its powerful platform to support charities and people in need – in addition to creating exciting live and local talk radio. The station is partnering now with Shriners Children’s™️for a multi-media campaign that will increase awareness and support for the mission of providing The Most Amazing Care Anywhere™️. Started on November 18 and running through Giving Tuesday on December 3, 77WABC is running promos on air and in its e-newsletter soliciting donations to Shriners Children’s healthcare system. WABC Radio personality and legendary New York TV anchor Ernie Anastos is the voice of the campaign. On Giving Tuesday, WABC will expand the promotion to include a stream display on the 77WABC app, video social media posts from all talent, and pre-rolls on its podcasts, with the call to action to donate to Shriners Children’s. Donations to Shriners Children’s on Giving Tuesday will be 3X matched by one of their supporters for triple the impact on children’s health. In addition, on Giving Tuesday listeners will be invited to donate $225 per person to the WABC Radio Foundation, with net proceeds earmarked for Shriners Children’s, to be part of an intimate, 40-person audience for a live broadcast of “Sid & Friends In The Morning” with host Sid Rosenberg (pictured above). The live broadcast will take place in January at Studio 77, WABC Radio’s state-of-the-art audio/video event space. These audience members will have the opportunity for a picture with Sid and will receive a Shriners Children’s “Love to the rescue” blanket. In addition, a silent auction to benefit Shriners Children’s will take place for listeners attending the live broadcast, who will have the opportunity to bid on Shriners Children’s “Love to the rescue” blankets. “Shriners Children’s gives hope to children and their families across the country and around the world, regardless of their ability to pay,” said John Catsimatidis, owner of Red Apple Media and WABC Radio. “At WABC Radio, we are proud to help support Shriners Children’s mission to deliver specialty medical care to children.”  “77WABC is committed to serving our community across the New York City area,” added Chad Lopez, president, Red Apple Media and WABC Radio. “By partnering with Shriners Children’s, we are able to bring awareness and help raise funds for their charitable mission.”

Cox Media Group’s Atlanta Radio Stations Collect Over 8,700 Pounds of Food Providing 12,272 meals for Georgia Families. Cox Media Group Atlanta’s radio stations (including heritage news/talker WSB) partnered with the Atlanta Community Food Bank to collect 8,782 pounds of food leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday. The effort by KISS 104.1 (WALR), 95.5 WSB (WSBB-FM/WSB-AM), B98.5 (WSB-FM) and 97.1 The River (WSRV) generated 12,272 meals for food-insecure individuals in Georgia. “We have the best listeners in Atlanta. Each year they support these terrific events and help us do good for the communities we serve,” said Chris Eagan, SVP audience/programming for Cox Media Group. “This is what live and local radio is truly all about.”  “We are grateful to the Cox Media Group radio station teams and personalities who continue to show an unwavering commitment to supporting the Food Bank’s efforts during the holiday season,” said Kyle Waide, president/CEO of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. “Our partnership with Cox Media Group helps us amplify the prominent issue of food insecurity among our neighbors, and these events underscore the generosity and willingness of the community to help those in need.”  During the holidays, food becomes a focal point for many family gatherings, which deepens the despair felt by many neighbors who are already struggling. Thirteen percent of Georgians and 18 percent of children in Georgia are estimated to be food insecure. Among communities of color, food insecurity can be as much as two or three times higher than their white neighbors. Every dollar donated can make a giant impact. The Food Bank’s processes and partners help them transform every dollar donated into up to three meals.

TARIFFS?  President-elect Donald Trump’s promise to hit the ground running and begin imposing tariffs on goods imported from Mexico, Canada and China coupled with the harsh response from our neighbors to the north and south topped the TALKERS Yappy List in yesterday’s conversations across talk media in America.  As reported yesterday, there is still a growing fascination – to the point of gossipy entertainment – among hosts and callers regarding the complicated alpha male relationship unfolding between Trump and Elon Musk. After that, Trump’s proposed budget cuts and layoffs of Federal employees, the economy, the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire and the Russia-Ukraine war were among the most-talked-about stories followed closely by the migrant crisis and health care/abortion rights, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.

RNC Chair Michael Whatley Credits WBT Listeners with Delivering NC to Trump.  WBT, Charlotte afternoon drive star Brett Winterble was joined by Republican National Committee chairman, Michael Whatley, yesterday (11/25) to talk about the GOP’s election victories.  During the conversation in which Whatley discussed the election’s immediate impact on issues ranging from wars in the Middle East and Central Europe to immigration and the economy, Whatley credited Radio One’s WBT listeners with helping secure the victory for Donald Trump in North Carolina.  Winterble is a rising star in the talk radio industry currently ranked at # 41 on the 2024 TALKERS “Heavy Hundred” list of the 100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America.  To listen to the conversation between Winterble and Whatley please click here.

The Performance Racing Network (PRN) Taps Brad Gillie to Assume Role of Lead Anchor Alongside Mark Garrow beginning with the 2025 NASCAR season. Gillie will be replacing longtime lead anchor Doug Rice who has retired after a distinguished 36-year career left a void few could fill. “The obvious choice to succeed me is Brad Gillie,” Rice tells TALKERS. “He has been an integral part of our broadcast team for decades. He is an excellent broadcaster that our fans trust and are very familiar with, which I know will make this a smooth transition.”  Gillie has spent more than two decades working in motorsports. His career started in 1998 at Texas Motor Speedway where he spent 16 years in a variety of positions.  In 2006, Gillie began broadcasting live NASCAR events with PRN, where he could be heard in any broadcast position. “I am truly grateful to PRN and Speedway Motor Sports for the opportunity to continue building on a long legacy of exceptional broadcasts,” said Gillie. “It is an honor to move up to the anchor chair and, along with our great team, deliver the excitement of NASCAR to our listeners and affiliate stations. I also want to thank Doug Rice for his friendship and mentorship. His values and commitment to excellence have made PRN an elite network recognized throughout the motorsports and radio industries.”

FOLLOW UP TO YESTERDAY’S STORY: 77WABC, New York Partners with AARP NY, Gristedes and D’Agostinos Supermarkets, and Catholic Charities for Annual 10,000-Turkey Giveaway During Holiday Season.  WABC Radio continues its self-stated “commitment to the community” with its annual 10,000-Turkey Giveaway, in collaboration with AARP New York, Gristedes and D’Agostinos Supermarkets, and Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York. The first 5,000 turkeys will be handed out before Thanksgiving, and the remaining 5,000 will be distributed before Christmas and the Holiday Season. The annual Turkey Giveaway kicked off at 10:00 am yesterday morning (11/25) when turkeys were handed out by John and Margo Catsimatidis, Curtis Sliwa, Sid Rosenberg, and other WABC Radio and New York celebrities from the 77WABC Trolley at St. Malachy’s Roman Catholic Church on W. 49th St. in New York City. “WABC Radio is an emergency broadcast station, a responsibility that extends to helping people in the greater New York City community year-round,” said John Catsimatidis, owner of Red Apple Media, 77WABC, and Gristedes and D’Agostinos Supermarkets. “Working with AARP New York and The Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York, we are bringing much-needed help, and hopefully joy, to those in our community who are in need and deserve happiness and a good meal for the Holiday Season.” Pictured above, John and Margo Catsimatidis participating in the holiday initiative.

Westwood One to Cease Distribution of Ben Shapiro Show.  Affiliates of Westwood One’s “Ben Shapiro Show” received a letter from company SVP affiliate sales Stuart Greenblatt on Friday (11/18) notifying them that “Westwood One is ceasing distribution of the Ben Shapiro Show. The final episode will air on Tuesday, December 31, 2024.” Beginning as a major conservative media podcast produced and distributed by The Daily Wire (co-founded by Shapiro and Jeremy Boreing), its reach greatly expanded when Westwood One picked up the program for radio syndication. In January 2019, Westwood One expanded Shapiro’s one-hour podcast-to-radio program, adding a nationally syndicated two-hour live radio show, for three hours of Ben Shapiro programming daily. According to Westwood One, The Ben Shapiro Show was being carried by more than 200 stations, including in nine of the top 10 markets. TALKERS ranks Ben Shapiro at #16 on its “Heavy Hundred” list of The 100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America.  This plan not to renew the distribution deal between Westwood One and The Daily Wire also includes programs hosted by Michael Knowles and Matt Walsh. No further information is available at press time.

77WABC, New York Partners with AARP NY, Gristedes and D’Agostinos Supermarkets, and Catholic Charities for Annual 10,000-Turkey Giveaway During Holiday Season.  WABC Radio continues its self-stated “commitment to the community” with its annual 10,000-Turkey Giveaway, in collaboration with AARP New York, Gristedes and D’Agostinos Supermarkets, and Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York. The first 5,000 turkeys will be handed out before Thanksgiving, and the remaining 5,000 will be distributed before Christmas and the Holiday Season. The annual Turkey Giveaway kicked off at 10:00 am this morning (11/25) when turkeys were handed out by John and Margo Catsimatidis, Curtis Sliwa, Sid Rosenberg, and other WABC Radio and New York celebrities from the 77WABC Trolley at St. Malachy’s Roman Catholic Church on W. 49th St. in New York City. “WABC Radio is an emergency broadcast station, a responsibility that extends to helping people in the greater New York City community year-round,” said John Catsimatidis, owner of Red Apple Media, 77WABC, and Gristedes and D’Agostinos Supermarkets. “Working with AARP New York and The Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of New York, we are bringing much-needed help, and hopefully joy, to those in our community who are in need and deserve happiness and a good meal for the Holiday Season.”

THE BUZZ CONTINUES:  The transition of presidential power dominated this past weekend’s conversation (11/23-24), highlighted by yapping over highly controversial appointments to cabinet and department head positions in the forthcoming Trump Administration. Predictions, questions, and concerns over the coming massive migrant deportation comprised the top story followed closely by speculation over what incoming Trump policies will have on inflation and a growing chorus of threats about a recession. There was also a lot of talk about how the new administration will impact the wars in the Middle East and Central Europe as well as abortion rights and health care according to the ongoing research of TALKERS.

FM NEWS 101 KXL, Portland, OR has announced (11/20) that award-winning journalist Heather Roberts is joining “Portland’s Morning News,” where she will co-anchor from 5:00 to 9:00 each morning.  Roberts comes to KXL from KBND in Bend, OR, where she was the news director and morning news anchor. She also currently owns and operates the Oregon Radio News Network, where she covers regional issues for radio stations across the state. Roberts also has experience in television, where she’s done everything from being a live truck operator, to anchoring the news, to moderating debates.  “Heather is a consummate professional, who has demonstrated her news chops across Oregon,” said KXL news director Grant McHill, “When we started the process of searching for our next anchor, we made it a priority to find someone who has a relentless sense for finding the stories that matter. So, we’re fired up to welcome Heather to the team.”  Roberts commented, “I’m thrilled to be part of such an amazing news team in my hometown.”  Roberts and her husband have two children. They call North Portland home.

Nielsen Media Research: Morning Joe Ratings Plummet After Co-hosts Meet with Trump. Nielsen numbers indicate that the MSNBC “Morning Joe” show ratings suffered a significant drop on Tuesday (11/19) after co-hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski announced that they met with President-elect Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago. “Morning Joe” delivered one of its lowest-rated programs of 2024 with just 680,000 viewers and 76,000 in the 25-54 demo on Tuesday. Tuesday was the show’s third lowest broadcast of 2024. Compared to the show’s 2024 average, Tuesday’s broadcast plummeted 38% with viewers and 37% in the 25-54 demo. And compared to Monday’s broadcast, the show was also down double digits seeing a 12% decline with both viewers and A25-54.

WPG, Atlantic City Morning Legend Harry Hurley Makes Prestigious List. The InsiderNJ.com Annual New Jersey Power List 2024 has again placed longtime WPG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley as one of the Garden State’s most politically influential citizens (11/20). It is always released on the Wednesday of the New Jersey League of Municipalities Conference. Hurley placed in the #48 position on this year’s list. Power lists are nothing new for Hurley who came in at #25 on the 2024 TALKERS “Heavy Hundred” list of the 100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison says of Hurley, “If talk radio were boxing, Harry Hurley would be its ‘pound-for-pound’ champion.”

Hercules, Hercules! Yup that is Hollywood Legend Kevin Sorbo and WRVA, Richmond Afternoon Mainstay Jeff Katz. Actor Kevin Sorbo was in town to deliver a speech and he took the time to appear on the Jeff Katz Show. Katz presented Sorbo with a Julia Katz bracelet which is made by Emily Morrissey, a local artist with special needs, who sells her work at http://www.emilysbracelets.com  and then donates the profits to a variety of charities including The Friendship Circle of Virginia which benefits from the sale of each Julia Katz bracelet. Julia Katz is the adult daughter of Jeff Katz who has faced special needs challenges since birth and has been the inspiration for the radio star’s enormous humanitarian contributions over the years to money- and consciousness-raising in the Richmond market.

Jon Hull Named Vice President Emeritus at Hope Media Group.  Hope Media Group (HMG) – a ministry of Christian-oriented media brands – announces Jon Hull as its new vice president emeritus, effective January 1, 2025.  In his new position, Hull will use his extensive experience to help lead and encourage the on-air donor acquisition teams, while also working with those teams that engage existing and lapsed donors off-air. In addition, Hull will join the leadership team that strategizes support drives and programming initiatives. “I’m so grateful Jon Hull will become Hope Media Group’s vice president emeritus. This title is one of distinction and honor – something Jon has more than earned in his 28 years of service to God through this ministry. I consider Jon a national treasure, as does the Christian radio industry,” shared Joe Paulo, CEO of Hope Media Group.

Canada’s Rogers Sports & Media Lays Off Dozens of Radio and Podcast Employees. According to an article by reporter Manuela Vega in the Toronto Star (11/19), Canadian broadcasting giant Rogers Sports & Media – reflecting major cutbacks taking place in the U.S. radio industry – has laid off more than two dozen employees in the company’s radio and podcasting divisions, citing declining revenue and challenges in advertising.  “With the radio industry continuing to feel the pressure of an uncertain advertising market, we made some difficult but necessary changes in our audio business impacting roles in several markets,” a Rogers Sports & Media spokesperson told the Star in a statement last night. The company said the job losses included a “handful” of journalists, as well as some managerial and administrative positions, but noted there would be no closures or terminations of stations, programming or podcasts. “We recognize and thank the team members who are leaving us for their dedication to our listeners and advertisers,” the statement read.  To read the complete article, please click here.

FOX Issues Statement About Duffy.  Former congressman Sean Duffy is now the second FOX TV personality to leave the network to pursue a role in the forthcoming Donald Trump administration following Pete Hegseth who was named as the president-elect’s choice to be Secretary of Defense.  Duffy – a FOX Business host – has received the Trump nod to be Secretary of Transportation.      Duffy is married to Rachel Campos-Duffy, who co-hosts “FOX & Friends Weekend” alongside – until last week – Pete Hegseth.  FOX put out the following statement per Duffy’s departure: “Sean Duffy provided valuable insights and analysis in co-hosting the FOX Business Network program, ‘The Bottom Line.’ As Duffy departs FOX News Media effective today (11/18), we wish him the best of luck in his return to Washington. Moving forward, ‘The Bottom Line‘ will continue with Dagen McDowell joined by rotating co-hosts.”

Raising Awareness All Year Long.  Nationally syndicated, Nevada-based TALKERS Heavy Hundred personality Dr. Daliah Wachs (pictured) never stops teaching and promoting health causes that lead to everything from prevention awareness to blood drives.  She tells TALKERS, “Where breast cancer awareness happens every October but education around this common disease needs to continue year-round.  Mammograms save lives and I’m grateful to Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging for helping make my mammogram and ultrasound testing easy and painless.”  The Steinberg facility has been serving South Las Vegas outpatients for more than 30 years.