Industry News

Rob Finnerty to Lead Newsmax’s Prime Time Lineup

Newsmax names veteran news anchor and broadcaster Rob Finnerty host of “Finnerty,” leading the cableim news network’s primetime lineup at 8:00 pm ET, debuting on October 8. For the past four years, Finnerty has been co-host of Newsmax’s “Wake-Up America” morning program with Sharla McBride. Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy says, “Rob has demonstrated success in our morning show and connects with our audience in a powerful way, and we believe he will continue that success in primetime.” Finnerty comments, “For far too long cable news has been a monolith – with very few options available to the American people, but Newsmax is proof that the model is changing, and I feel incredibly honored to be a part of that change. Ever since I got here, Newsmax has kept growing and growing, which is amazing for this industry. This is the opportunity of a lifetime, and I am so grateful to Newsmax and its team led by CEO Chris Ruddy.” Pictured here is Rob Finnerty as a special guest speaker at TALKERS 2024. 

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Cumulus Media Announces Two New Podcasts from the Rich Eisen Podcast Network. Actor O’Sheaim Jackson, Jr. is hosting the new weekly podcast “No-Contest Wrestling” with co-host TJ Jefferson the show combines Jackson’s and Jefferson’s unique takes on sports entertainment by interviewing the biggest stars, going behind the scenes with untold stories from the world of wrestling. The second show is “The Jim Jackson Show,” hosted by two-time All-American and 14-year NBA veteran Jim Jackson. In this show, Jackson covers basketball from the college game to the highest levels of the NBA. Eisen says, “I’ve been in a constant search for new, fresh, thought-provoking, and entertaining voices to add to our growing podcast business, and I’m thrilled to add both O’Shea Jackson, Jr. and Jim Jackson to the roster.”

VSiN Partners with Interstate 15 Agency. VSiN, The Sports Betting Network, announces a strategic partnership with sports and entertainment marketing agency Interstate 15. Following the network being acquired in 2021, VSiN was bought back by Musburger Media and says it is now “poised to further enhance its brand and broaden its reach.” VSiN president and chief business officer Brian Musburger says, “We’re excited to leverage this partnership to enhance VSiN’s brand and further accelerate our growth. With Jason Gastwirth’s vast understanding of entertainment strategy and his relationships in Las Vegas, Jamie Fritz’s connections to sports legends and Greg Cannon’s track record creating, launching and building brands, Interstate 15’s proven expertise will help VSiN tap into the cache and star power that make Las Vegas the entertainment capital of the world.”

WGRT, Port Huron, Michigan Signs with Virtual News Center. Port Huron Family Radio, Inc. station will use daily newscasts anchored by JP bZett. Station GM Marty Dorn says, “We are thrilled to partner with Virtual News Center to bring timely and reliable news updates to our radio station listeners.”

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U.K.-Based Podcast Radio Now On KAUS-AM, Austin, MN.   Podcast Radio continues its U.S. expansion, having just launched on Alpha Media’s KAUS-AM in Austin, MN. Podcast RadioFocusing on being a trusted guide to podcast discovery, Podcast Radio features a diverse lineup of curated podcasts across various genres, with presenters, giving listeners in Minnesota an expanded radio experience. The station was the first Podcast Radio affiliate to feature dedicated genre hours, including business, true crime, comedy, and musical conversation. According to sources at Podcast Radio, “This genre-based scheduling allows listeners to enjoy expertly curated content that aligns with their interests, delivered through our innovative platform and partnership with Local Radio Network (LRN).” Gerard Edwards, CEO of Podcast Radio, tells TALKERS, “We are excited to have Podcast Radio on in Minnesota. Our genre-based scheduling allows us to offer something for every listener, while using the trusted radio format to connect audiences with the world of podcasts. Alpha Media has been an incredible partner, and we look forward to expanding our presence.”  Podcast Radio Minnesota joins Podcast Radio Missouri, broadcasting in dayparts on KREI-AM (Farmington), KWIX AM/FM (Moberly) and KJFF (Festus). Podcast Radio also has four 24/7 stations with Beasley Media Group in Detroit, the Carolinas, Tampa Bay and Southwest Florida. For more information on how to bring Podcast Radio to your station, contact Gerard Edwards — gerard@podcastradionetwork.com — or send general questions to info@podcastradionetwork.com.

USRN and Key Networks Announce Joint Sales Venture: Key United.  United Stations Radio Networks (USRN) and Key Networks, two players in national radio network sales and syndication, have announced the unification of their sales forces into a joint venture called Key United. According to company sources, this strategic partnership unites the strengths of both companies, creating an enhanced sales organization with expanded reach and capabilities for the advertising market.  Both Key Networks and United Stations will continue to produce, market. and distribute audio programming independently to the radio and affiliate markets. Dennis Green and Stefan Jones will continue to oversee Key and USRN production affiliations and operations. The new, combined sales force will be led by COO of Gemini XIII, Charles Steinhauer and Key Networks’ president of sales, Ron Russo.

Woodward Purchases Seven Radio Stations in Springfield and Bloomington, Illinois from Neuhoff.  Woodward Communications Inc. (WCI) has officially acquired seven radio station brands from Neuhoff Media in Springfield and Bloomington, Illinois. The sale was completed yesterday (10/1). According to sources at Woodward, the acquired brands align with WCI’s focus on local community media properties in certain market sizes that serve niche and lifestyle audiences. They expand WCI’s footprint in Illinois and bring experienced teams and talent to the employee-owned company. In addition to a variety of music formats, the acquired outlets include Sports Radio 92.3 FM and 1450 AM, Springfield and Channel 1450, a digital platform in Springfield covering high school sports.

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Industry Speculation About Soros’ Plans for Audacy News and Talk Outlets Intensifies

AudacyAudacy, Inc. announced yesterday (9/30) that it has successfully completed its financial restructuring, implementing a fully consensual, deleveraging transaction that equitized approximately $1.6 billion of funded debt, a reduction of 80% from approximately $1.9 billion to $350 million. Sources at the radio giant – owner of more than 220 local stations including major all-news, news/talk, and sports talk outlets – say the company emerges as a “healthy, scaled, multi-platform leader in the dynamic audio sector, with total net leverage of approximately 2.7x, differentiated by its #1 position in exclusive, premium audio content.”  imAudacy will continue to be led by David J. Field, its current president and CEO, and its existing management team. Field will also serve on the company’s new board of directors.  Field states, “We are pleased to have successfully achieved all of our restructuring goals, emerging with an outstanding balance sheet, delivering industry-leading growth, serving our listeners and advertisers with excellence and honoring our commitments to employees and partners,” adding, “Today, Audacy embarks on our next chapter, capitalizing on our position as a scaled, multi-platform audio leader, differentiated by our exclusive, premium audio content, including our unrivaled leadership in sports audio, powered by our industry-leading financial strength and focused on accelerating our innovation and digital transformation. We are maximizing a broad set of opportunities to further accelerate our growth for the benefit of Audacy and all its stakeholders.” In conjunction with the completion of its restructuring, Audacy is expected to become a private company. Audacy’s restructuring comes after the FCC’s commissioners gave a thumbs up on the assignment of licenses held by the radio giant to a new, post-bankruptcy version of the company on September 18, allowing the radio giant to bypass the commission’s review, at least temporarily.  According to reliable reports, the Soros Fund Management, led by billionaire investor and powerful supporter of liberal causes, George Soros, acquired over $400 million of the radio company’s debt, making it the largest contributor among a group of lenders looking to exchange loans for stock.  Concern grows in the radio industry and related political circles, including some Members of Congress, that the influence of Soros’ political leanings might be felt in the programming of Audacy’s all news stations and predominantly conservative news/talk outlets.

 

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SummitMedia Names Mike Hogan to Lead Omaha Market. SummitMedia, LLC has announced Mike Hogan as the new president and GM to oversee operations in the Omaha, Nebraska cluster. Hogan brings more than 25 years’ experience in management, sales, and marketing which, according to the company, positions him to achieve results for Summit’s Omaha team and regional clients. Most recently, he oversaw clusters in Sioux City, Iowa, and Ogallala, Nebraska. He served there for more than a decade, developing key partnerships with clients, growing revenue, building relationships within the business community, and executing plans to drive sales growth. “We’re excited to have an executive of Mike’s caliber running our Omaha cluster,” said Summit chairman and CEO Carl Parmer. He brings incredible experience, expertise, and leadership to our team.”

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Steve Jones and Mike McVay Guest on New Episodes of Benztown Podcast. Steve Jones Mike McVayBenztown, a global leader in radio imaging, voiceovers, programming, podcasting, and jingles, has released two new episodes of “Chachi Loves Everybody,” an original podcast series hosted by its president Dave “Chachi” Denes. The episodes feature Chachi’s special guests Steve Jones, president and CEO, Skyview Networks, and Mike McVay, president, McVay Media Consulting.  Jones and McVay will be among those honored this fall as Giants of Broadcasting by the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation at the 2024 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony on November 12th at Gotham Hall in New York City.  To listen to the new “Chachi Loves Everybody” podcast episodes, please click here.

 

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Seasoned Radio Journalist Veronica Carter is the New Co-Host of San Diego’s Morning News on KOGO-AM

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Audacy Extends Broadcast Partnership with Penn State Football and Basketball.  Audacy and Penn State University have extended their longtime broadcast partnership. As part of the multi-platform partnership, Talk Radio 1210 WPHT, Philadelphia will continue to serve as the flagship home for all Penn State football and men’s basketball play-by-play broadcasts.  “Penn State has been a longtime valued partner of Audacy Philadelphia and Talk Radio 1210 WPHT, and we are delighted to continue this long-standing relationship,” David Yadgaroff, SVP/market manager, Audacy Philadelphia, tells TALKERS. “Philadelphia is home to many Penn State sports fans, and we are proud that Talk Radio 1210 WPHT will provide tremendous reach for fans and alums over the air, on their smart speakers, or the free Audacy app.”

 

FOX News Media to Simulcast CBS’ Vice Presidential Debate.  In addition to simulcasting the event, FOX News Media will present live programming surrounding the CBS vice presidential debate between candidates Sen. JD Vance and Gov. Tim Walz on Tuesday, October 1st in New York City. Special programming will be available across all of FOX News Media’s key platforms, including FOX News Channel (FNC), FOX Business Network (FBN), FOX News Digital, FOX News Audio and FOX Nation.

 

iHeartMedia Joins Forces with Radio Ambulante Studios.   Radio Ambulante StudiosThe podcast publishing arm of iHeartMedia and Radio Ambulante Studios (RAS), a pioneering Spanish-language podcast production company that tells the stories of Latin America and Latino communities around the world, announced a deal that will bring RAS and its full slate of shows to iHeart’s My Cultura Podcast Network.  As part of the deal, Radio Ambulante Studios’ flagship, award-winning podcast “Radio Ambulante” along with its groundbreaking weekly news show “El Hilo” and its anthology docuseries “Central” will now be distributed by iHeartPodcasts as part of My Cultura, iHeartMedia’s podcast network dedicated to elevating Latinx voices and stories. Under the new partnership, the two companies will also develop and co-produce a minimum of two new shows over the next two years.

 

Industry News

Newsmax Wins Major Ruling in Smartmatic Case

The Superior Court of Delaware ruled yesterday (9/23) that Smartmatic will not be eligible for punitive damages in its defamation case against Newsmax. This is a major ruling in favor of Newsmax.

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The Court ruled that since Newsmax had never engaged in express malice – meaning it never intended to harm Smartmatic – the voting company could not claim punitive damages. Yesterday’s ruling means that to recover any damages Smartmatic will have to prove to a jury that Newsmax’s coverage caused Smartmatic actual losses.  Sources at Newsmax tell TALKERS, “Newsmax’s reporting did not cause Smartmatic damages and after extensive discovery Smartmatic has offered no evidence of such claimed damages.” According to Newsmax, the multimedia platform covered both sides of the dispute in the aftermath of the 2020 election and that the Smartmatic suit against Newsmax “threatens freedom of speech and freedom of press.”

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Salem Radio Network and the Salem News Channel Will Simulcast CBS News VP Debate.   Beginning at 9:00 pm ET on Tuesday (10/1), Salem will simulcast the 90-minute debate between U.S. Sen. JD Vance and Gov. Tim Walz that will be moderated by “CBS Evening News” anchor Norah O’Donnell and Margaret Brennan, host of “Face the Nation.”  Immediately prior to the simulcast, SRN and SNC will broadcast a two-hour Salem “Pre-Debate Special” beginning at 7:00 pm ET. Salem’s Larry Elder will host the program and will be joined by SRN’s Mike Gallagher, Dr. Sebastion Gorka, Dennis Prager, and Tony Perkins. Phil Boyce, SVP for Spoken Word at Salem Media Group, tells TALKERS, “Who better to host our Pre-Debate coverage than Larry Elder who ran for Governor of California and then for President. He’s been in that chair before, so he knows what to say. Stations who sign up for coverage are in for a treat!” Interested stations in the East Coast and Central regions can contact Jim Bligh at  jbligh@srnradio.com or 212-419-4663.  On the West Coast or in the Midwest region (North Dakota to Texas) contact Kelli DeShan at  kdeshan@srnradio.com or 972-707-6882.

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AM for Every Vehicle Act Approved by House Energy and Commerce Committee.  The House Energy and Commerce Committee approved the pending bill yesterday (9/19) requiring new cars to have AM radios in their dashboards. The bill was passed by the committee on a roll-call vote of 45-2 and now heads to the full House for final approval.  Titled the AM for Every Vehicle Act, the bill, if passed, would direct the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to require automakers to maintain AM broadcast radio in their vehicles “without a separate or additional payment, fee, or surcharge.” Supporters of the bill say that AM radio serves the public interest and safety during natural disasters and other events requiring emergency broadcasting information – not to mention a wide variety of programming genres not readily available on other platforms in addition to regions of the country not fully served by digital media.

SEATTLE TIMES: Major Changes Could Be Coming to the Seattle Mariners Broadcasting Booth this Off Season. According to an article in the Seattle Times by reporter Adam Jude, longtime Mariners play-by-play voice Dave Sims is thought to be a finalist for the New York Yankees radio broadcasting vacancy, a position that opened up when John Sterling abruptly retired in April.  Sims, 71, has been one of the Mariners’ primary television voices since 2007, and his iconic calls — from “Hey now!” to Giddy up, baby!” — have endeared him to many fans. A Philadelphia native, Sims interviewed with the Yankees earlier this summer. The Yankees are not expected to announce a hire until after the season. “It’s just nice to be considered,” Sims said. To read the entire article, please click here.

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WGN, Chicago Names Charlie Roumeliotis as Studio Host of Blackhawks Pre- and Postgame Shows.  WGN Radio today named Charlie Roumeliotis as the studio host of Chicago Blackhawks pre- and postgame shows for the upcoming 2024-25 hockey season. Roumeliotis will also serve as the host of WGN’s weekly “Blackhawks Live” show. Long-time broadcast duo John Wiedeman and Troy Murray continue in their roles calling Blackhawks games on WGN Radio. Roumeliotis is extremely familiar with hockey and with the Blackhawks, having worked most recently as Blackhawks Insider for NBC Sports Chicago, where he delivered exclusive coverage of the team through articles, video content, podcast analysis, and TV appearances from 2019 through 2024. He also served as a Chicago Blackhawks correspondent for the NHL. Roumeliotis assumes the role previously held by Joe Brand who was recently named the radio play-by-play broadcaster for the Pittsburgh Penguins.

 

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AUDACY STUDY: Local Radio is the Most Trusted News Source

Local news radio is the most trusted news source, besting TV and social media, according to a new study conducted by Audacy in partnership with Alter Agents – a marketing research firm.  The study – “Local News Radio: Credible, Engaging & Mobilizing” – explores news radio’s powerful connection with news enthusiasts who consider news radio to be a vital part of their day and demonstrates how unbiased journalism and trusted relationships create a safe haven for audiences and brands. The study surveyed 2,542 listeners from seven markets with Audacy news stations, including Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia and San Francisco. “In an age of information overload, Americans seek credible news sources they can rely upon. Enter local news radio,” said Paul Suchman, chief marketing officer, Audacy. “Local news radio serves as a trusted voice, delivered by brands that are deeply connected to the communities they serve. These environments create exceptional opportunities for advertisers to reach engaged audiences with significant buying power. And the premium content local news stations deliver is unparalleled in its relevance, timeliness, and humanity.”  The study indicates that at all moments throughout the day, millions of listeners turn to their trusted local news radio stations for the latest updates, insights and stories that shape their community and the world. These listeners are deeply engaged with their cities, constantly seeking information and turn to trusted news sources to stay informed. 85% of listeners find local radio news credible – more than any other medium. The study further insinuates this credibility pays immense dividends for advertisers, as 92% of listeners pay attention to advertisements they hear on local radio, with almost 80% of these listeners finding ads on news stations both trustworthy and informative.  To view the “The Power of Local News Radio” please click here.

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Audacy’s KNX News 97.1 FM and the Los Angeles Times to Co-present a Live Debate in Race for L.A. County D.A

LA DA DebateAs millions of voters across Los Angeles County decide how to cast their ballots in the pivotal race for district attorney, Audacy’s KNX News 97.1 FM and the Los Angeles Times are joining forces to present a live debate between incumbent George Gascón and challenger Nathan Hochman on October 8 at 5:00 pm PT.  Sources at Audacy Los Angeles tell TALKERS, “With criminal justice top of mind for voters across Southern California, the KNX News/L.A. Times debate will dig into the key issues impacting safety, equity, and quality of life for the residents of America’s most populous county ahead of the November 5 election. The one-hour, commercial-free debate will air on KNX News (97.1 FM & 1070 AM) with live video available on the digital and social platforms of KNX News and the Los Angeles Times. KNX News anchor Mike Simpson and chief correspondent Charles Feldman will moderate the debate. Panelists will include L.A. Times reporters James Queally and Brittny Mejia and KNX News reporter Emily Valdez. Media interested in attending should contact Alex Silverman at alex.silverman@audacy.com for details and logistics.

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Charlotte’s WBT AM/FM, Radio One, and The Carolina Journal partner to present “The Carolina Journal News Hour on WBT”

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98.5 The Sports Hub Names Ryan Johnston as New Boston Bruins Play-By-Play Announcer.  Beasley Media Group’s 98.5 The Sports Hub, WBZ-FM, Boston has named Ryan Johnston to take over play-by-play duties for the Bruins NHL broadcasts. Johnston replaces Judd Sirott, who recently left the radio seat to move over to TV. The sports radio veteran has been with The Sports Hub since 2009. He’s been the PBP fill-In on 98.5 and the Boston Bruins Radio Network since 2010. Johnston has also been the main host of the station’s Saturday morning “Sports Hub Hockey Show” since 2012. For the past three years he’s been a regular fill-in for the “Toucher & Hardy” (Fred Toucher and Rob “Hardy” Poole morning program.)

 

Joe Thomas Morning Show Now in Syndication by TMN.  2024 has been quite a year for talk broadcaster Joe Thomas of Charlottesville, VA. imHe purchased his own station – WTON, Staunton, VA after serving the Charlottesville market for years as morning host of WCHV. Now he has put his morning talk show into syndication through Talk Media Network. It has already been cleared on WZXI in Lancaster, KY and WTTB on Florida’s ‘Treasure Coast’ (as well as his own WTON in Central Virginia). Joe tells TALKERS, “This is such an honor to work with people like Josh Leng and Willis Damalt at TMN. We’re up every morning to help the new listeners get their day started just like we have been for over 20 years!” He adds, “Just like that ‘other’ guy named Thomas [Jefferson] from Charlottesville, my show promises free speech and independence and I hope that it too spreads across America.”  For information about “Joe Thomas in-the-morning,” contact Willis Damalt at TMN. 917-603-7148 or willis@talkmedianetwork.com.

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WJR AM 760 Brings Live NFL Football to Detroit Sports Fans on Monday and Thursday Nights.WJR  Cumulus Media announces that Detroit news/talk station WJR AM 760 will air NFL football on Monday and Thursday nights through a new agreement with Westwood One. WJR AM 760 will provide exclusive and comprehensive coverage of the 2024-2025 NFL season, broadcasting Monday and Thursday night regular season football games on the station and in a simulcast on Cumulus Media’s WDVD-FM HD2.  WJR AM 760 coverage will also include the NFL Playoffs, beginning with the wild card round and ending with the Super Bowl. Coming up on WJR AM 760’s NFL coverage is the Buffalo Bills match-up against the Miami Dolphins in Miami tonight (9/12) at 7:30pm.  Ann Thomas, PD of WJR AM 760, tells TALKERS, “WJR is thrilled to partner with Westwood One to bring Monday and Thursday night NFL football to Michigan residents.”

 

Ashley Sterner Sheilah Kast

Morning Host Ashley Sterner Expands Role at Baltimore Public Media’s WYPR.    Baltimore Public Media’s WYPR 88.1 FM has announced that Ashley Sterner (pictured above, left), long-time host of “Morning Edition,” will now co-host “On the Record” alongside Sheilah Kast (r). Sterner, a familiar voice at WYPR for nearly two decades, steps into her new role to expand her engagement with the community through in-depth discussions and storytelling.  Kast expressed excitement about Sterner’s new position telling TALKERS,  “Ashley has been instrumental in how our listeners start their day, and now she brings that same expertise to deepen the dialogue on ‘On the Record.’ We are delighted to welcome her as co-host and look forward to the fresh perspectives she will introduce alongside our engaging program content.” Sterner adds, “I’m excited to share more of Maryland’s stories on the radio and couldn’t dream of working with a better team!”  The program, produced by Maureen Harvie and Melissa Gerr, offers interviews involving “audacious artists, intrepid scientists, community leaders, and more.” WYPR Sterner will make her co-hosting debut tomorrow (9/13) on the NPR affiliate, with the show broadcasting every Wednesday and Friday at 9:30 am.  (Photo by Melissa Gerr/WYPR.)

 

Golf

Broadcasters Foundation Pulls Off Major Fund Raiser to Benefit Industry.   A record number of radio and television on-air personalities and executives, plus renowned athletes, turned up on Monday (9/9) for the sold-out Celebrity Golf Tournament, a major fundraiser for the Broadcasters Foundation of America, which helps broadcasters in acute need due to life-altering illness and other catastrophies. BFOA Logo Pictured above are the on-air celebrities and athletes who participated at the Siwanoy Country Club in Bronxville, NY. For more information about the BFoA, please click here www.broadcastersfoundation.org

 

Virtual News Center Adds Missouri Cluster.  Virtual News Center – a growing independent news provider for radio stations – is adding five new stations to its list of affiliates with the additions of KCGQ, KGKS, KEZS, and KGIR. The stations serve Cape Girardeau, MO. River Radio, LLC owns KSIM/KZIM Newsradio 960 and added Virtual News Center to the rest of its cluster following the success of the station. “KZIM/KSIM has been very pleased to have a relationship with Virtual News Center over the last several years. We have recently grown that relationship by utilizing the Virtual News Center news writing and production services. They provide quality, timely, news with talent that connects with our listening audience,” says general manager Mike Renick. “Mike Renick and Faune Riggin are doing great radio in Cape Girardeau, and we are excited to make their local news shine with Karen Johnson and Brandon Dickson,” says Virtual News Center owner Joel Dearing.  Johnson will anchor daily newscasts for the cluster with reporting from Dickson. Virtual News Center provides market-specific news, weather, and sports content to dozens of radio stations across the U.S.   For more information visit www.virtualnewscenter.com.

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imOne More Debate Story Out of Philly.  We must share this with you.  Last night’s spectacular was a bonanza of activity for Audacy’s swing state news/talk giant WPHT (as is this entire election).  The station is the home of Walter M Sterling’s idiosyncratic “Sterling Every Damn Night” 9:00 pm – 12:00 midnight.  Sterling (a.k.a. Walter Sabo) aired the entire debate followed by probing analysis from a male entertainer, “Donald Trunk,” in addition to “Steven a baker and bakery owner,” “Thea Landen, a smutty book author,” “Celena Ballerina a senior in college” and the station’s real midday host Dom Giordano. For one hour, they discussed how crappy their food and electrical bills are as well as how confusing the debaters were. A caller thanked Thea for her nightly smutty book readings stating, “She reminds me of my wife.”

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Connoisseur Morphs WICC, Bridgeport into “The Voice of Connecticut” to Fill Gap Left by the Late WCBS 880

WICCConnoisseur Media tells TALKERS about a variety of significant changes for its Western Connecticut news/talk powerhouse, WICC 600 AM, Bridgeport – changes inspired by the closing of Audacy’s WCBS 880 in adjacent New York City. Brigitte Quinn WICC is now “The Voice of Connecticut” expanding its reach by simulcasting on 95.9 FM, previously home to classic rock formatted “The Fox.” This strategic move is designed to strengthen WICC’s position as Fairfield County’s premier source for news, talk, and information.  A pivotal part of this transformation is WICC’s new affiliation with CBS News, which will provide national news coverage at the top of every hour. Station officials tell TALKERS, this partnership reinforces WICC’s role as the region’s trusted news source, delivering timely and credible information to the communities it serves.  “This rebranding and expansion to 95.9 FM represents a pivotal moment for WICC,” stated Keith Dakin, VP of Programming for Connoisseur Media. “The talent on our team, coupled with our new affiliation with CBS News, will allow us to meet the demand for news and talk programming in Southern Connecticut. We’re excited about this next phase and looking forward to serving a much wider geography and bigger audience.”  But, as the saying goes, that’s not all.  A new local daytime show from 12:00 noon-2:00 pm ET will be added beginning September 30th hosted by Brigitte Quinn who was the creator, host, and managing editor of “Newsline” on WCBS 880.  She was the station’s first female morning-drive anchor and later anchored mornings on 1010 WINS. Quinn’s TV career includes roles at MSNBC, NBC News at Sunrise, and Fox News Channel.  Quinn remarks, “Ever since my family and I moved back to beautiful Connecticut, I’ve become a faithful WICC listener. I’m delighted to be joining such a great news/talk radio station, ‘The Voice of Connecticut.’”  Quinn’s addition brings WICC’s entire daytime lineup local as she joins talk hosts Melissa Sheketoff 5:00 am -10:00 am, Lisa Wexler 10:00 am-12:00 noon and Paul Pacelli from 2:00 pm-6:00 pm.  New additions to weekend programming also include Emmy nominee Chef Plum, Mike Cerulli of WTNH, New Haven,  and Dave Ruden of the Ruden Report covering local high school sports.  The station plans to continue evolving in this direction with one more critical news reporter position to fill. “We invite Fairfield County listeners to tune in to ‘The Voice of Connecticut,’” says Kristin Okesson, SVP of Connoisseur Media Connecticut. Connoisseur Media Logo“Our affiliation with CBS News paired with these exciting changes in programming reinforces our commitment to deliver modern, engaging content and we’re confident that our audiences will appreciate the new ‘voice’ they hear.   I’m especially proud that our daytime shows are hosted by four incredibly talented hosts – three of them in particular are outstanding women in their own right.” WICC can be streamed at voiceofct.com.  For more insight into these changes, check out WICC host Lisa Wexler’s interview conducted on air yesterday with company CEO Jeff Warshaw by clicking here.

Industry News

Newsmax Files With SEC for Initial Public Offering, Plans to List on NYSE

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Beasley Broadcast Group Launches Exchange Offer, New Notes Offer, Tender Offer and Consent Solicitations Relating to Existing Notes. Beasley Broadcast Group is offering, to people who hold its current debt, the opportunity to exchange their existing debt for new debt with slightly better terms, as well as some shares of the company’s stock. The company is also giving an option for those debt holders to sell part of their debt for cash, though at a lower price than its original value. Beasley hopes this will help improve its financial situation by reducing its debt and extending the deadline for paying it off. Most of their debt holders are already on board with this plan.

FOX Weather Debuts Sports Weather Video Podcast.  FOX Weather meteorologists Ian Oliver and Steve Bender are debuting a one-of-a-kind sports weather video podcast entitled “Storming the Field today (9/6). The podcast, which will air each week during the NFL season, will be made available on FOXNewsPodcasts.com, FOX Weather’s YouTube page and stream Friday nights on FOX Weather from 11:00 -11:30 pm ET.  Featuring FOX Weather’s exclusive Risk of Weather Impact (ROWI) forecast, Oliver and Bender will break down how the weather will affect each week’s top NFL games and players. They will be joined by a special guest to preview each game, detail how the teams will handle the elements and explain the impact weather will have on the fan experience, fantasy football and sports betting. Free agent NFL running back Melvin Gordon III is Oliver and Bender’s guest on today’s first episode.

 

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Top News/Talk Media Stories for Week of September 2-6

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Blood Donation Event

National Blood Donation Week.  Yesterday (9/4) was National Blood Donation Day in America and this is National Blood Donation Week (9/1-9/7). Las Vegas-based TMN syndicated and TALKERS Heavy Hundred host Dr. Daliah Wachs was instrumental in creating these established annual events during which governors across the U.S. unite to help generate blood donations and raise awareness in support of the nation’s blood banks. A former recipient of the TALKERS “Humanitarian of the Year” award, she is pictured above giving blood while being interviewed yesterday by media personality Everett Cardwell on Las Vegas TV station KSNV channel 3.   Drives are being held across the country and can be found by visiting the American Red Cross website.  For media inquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Dr. Daliah Wachs at doctordaliah@hotmail.com or (702) 279-4123.

 

  Toyota and Lexus Join New Three-Year SiriusXM Subscription Program.  LexusSiriusXM today (9/5) announced that Toyota is now participating in its new three-year Extended Service Subscription program designed to empower automakers and dealerships in the United States to deliver even more value to new-vehicle buyers. Through this program, participating Toyota and Lexus retailers across the nation are now able to include the Extended Service Subscriptions to SiriusXM’s leading audio entertainment services with the purchase of select new vehicles, expanding the Toyota and Lexus Connected Services features available for customers while providing flexibility in payment options.  ToyotaSiriusXM capability is a standard feature in all Toyota and Lexus models sold in the United States. Now, participating Toyota and Lexus dealerships can choose to add the three-year Extended Service Subscription to new models featuring the latest Toyota Audio Multimedia and Lexus Interface. The three-year subscription’s cost will be added to the vehicle’s purchase or lease price. Vehicles that do not include the three-year Extended Service Subscription will continue to include a standard three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM.

 

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Anchor/Reporter in Seattle

Lotus Seattle is looking for an enthusiastic, full-time news anchor/reporter to join its newsroom. The successful candidate will work closely with the news director, editors, reporters and other anchors to gather facts, broadcast news reports, interview guests, and cover breaking stories when necessary. This person will cover local, state, national, and international events, and also stay well-informed on breaking news developments. Please submit resumes to hr@lotusseattle.com.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Cumulus/Westwood One Study:  Sports Listeners More Engaged than Sports Viewers. According to a brand-new season-long Nielsen analysis of Portable People Meter tuning for the 2023-2024 season, a total of 64 million people listened to the NFL on Westwood One. This week’s Cumulus Media/Westwood One Audio Active Group blogs break down the findings which indicate among other talking points that the sports listener is more passionate than the TV viewer, giving audio commercials greater impact;  that audio is usually closest to the point of purchase reaching busy on-the-go people whose “best available screen” is their in-car AM/FM radio; and that audio reaches desirable consumers – young, employed, upscale, and with greater spending power.  Just in time for the NFL 2024-2025 season, click here for the full study:  Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group® blog

 

WIP Extends PNC Bank Advertising Contract with Eagles in Philly.  Audacy Philadelphia and PNC Bank have extended their longtime relationship with PNC continuing as the presenting sponsor of the Eagles Radio Network on SportsRadio 94WIP (WIP-FM), the flagship radio station of the Philadelphia Eagles. The sponsorship also includes on-air promotional reads and collaboration for client events throughout the year.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Brett Pomykala Brett Pomykala Named SVP/Sales for iHeartMedia Washington, DC.   It was announced today (9/3) that Brett Pomykala has been named senior VP of sales for iHeartMedia Washington, DC effective immediately. iHeartMedia Washington, D.C. has a strong cross-platform presence and includes an array of iconic brands and franchises — both broadcast and digital — encompassing more than eight stations comprised of talk, news, and music formats. In this role, Pomykala will manage the sales efforts in Washington, DC reporting to Aaron Hyland, region president for iHeartMedia Washington, DC and Baltimore.

Tom TradupSalem’s Tom Tradup: “There’s a Growing National Appetite for Christian Films Among American Audiences.”  Salem Radio Network VP/news and talk programming Tom Tradup (pictured here over the weekend at a showing of “The Forge” with the film’s star Priscilla Shirer) tells TALKERS,  “Filmmakers the Kendrick Brothers have created a solid film with a powerful message about how mentoring can turn around the lives of troubled youth in America. ‘The Forge’ is nearing $20 million in box office receipts in only nine days and proves that theatergoers are looking for content beyond just superheroes, car crashes, and rehashed animated features.”  SONY/Affirm Films’ “The Forge” logged in at #7 in the top ten films over the competitive Labor Day weekend.  “The built-in audience for Christian films makes them much more profitable than multi-million-dollar Hollywood blockbusters,” Tradup adds. He cited 2023’s Erwin Brothers film “Jesus Revolution.” The biographical film about Southern California pastor Greg Laurie premiered in February last year, produced on a slim budget of $15 million, went on to gross more than $54 million dollars.

VSiN, The Sports Betting Network, Unveils Fall Programming LineupAnnounces New Talent and Shows.  VSiN, The Las Vegas-based Sports Betting Network (“VSiN”) announced its new programming lineup with an injection of new talent joining familiar faces. In time for the beginning of the 2024 NFL season, VSiN begins rolling out its fall schedule to cement what it describes to TALKERS as its position as the trusted authority in sports betting.

For the full schedule, please click here.

 

Heidi Harris Show Veteran Talk Show Host Heidi Harris Gaining Traction with Facebook Page Show.  Veteran Las Vegas-based talk show host Heidi Harris (formerly with KXNT, KDWN, in LA as well as KRLA, Los Angeles) has been gaining traction with her independently produced and distributed online version of “The Heidi Harris Show” She tells TALKERS, “Last week, retired Metro Traffic Sergeant Tom Page joined me for a chat about traffic stops, which are often the first contact a citizen has with police. What are they allowed to do, and what are you obligated to do during a traffic stop? Get the answers to these and other common citizenship questions here. We’ll be doing more of these informative chats in the coming weeks.” Harris is a past recipient of the Electronic Media Award (EMA) for Best Local Radio Talk Show in Las Vegas as well as being a former member of the TALKERS Heavy Hundred. She’s also an author. Check out her show by clicking here.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

KAB

Sirius XMSiriusXM to Open Technology Center of Excellence in Ireland.  SiriusXM Satellite Radio has opened of a new state-of-the-art technology facility in Dublin, Ireland. The Company’s Dublin-based employees are expected to play a critical role in the audio entertainment company’s continued digital transformation and will function as a “center of excellence” for SiriusXM’s Product and Technology organization. SiriusXM is supported by the Irish government through IDA Ireland.  SiriusXM’s Dublin workforce will primarily focus on software development, automotive technology and engineering, adtech, data science, and analytics. Talent based in the new technology hub will be charged with developing and implementing best-in-class standards for high-quality, scalable software deliveries for SiriusXM’s streaming and in-vehicle audio entertainment platforms.  Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke tells TALKERS, I congratulate SiriusXM on their expansion. Our team had the pleasure of meeting the SiriusXM management team recently, and I am pleased that they are opening a new Technology Center of Excellence in Dublin and availing of the wealth of professional talent available here.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Joe Rogan LogoEdison ResearchJoe Rogan Tops Podcast Ranking in the U.K.  Podcaster and media personality Joe Rogan’s popularity is strong on both sides of the Atlantic.  This is according to Edison Research in releasing the Top 25 Podcasts in the UK based on reach for Q2 2024 among weekly podcast listeners age 15+. Remaining in the same rank order in the top three are “The Joe Rogan Experience,” “The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett,” and “Sh**ged Married Annoyed.”  To see the entire list, please click here.

 

Rob Parker Sports RapRob Parker’s “Sports Rap Radio” in Detroit Discontinues Broadcasting.  According to reports in Barrett Media and Awful Announcing, less than 90 days after launching the country’s first all-Black sports radio station, Rob Parker’s “Sports Rap Radio” is no longer on the air.  The groundbreaking format debuted on June 4 on WXYT AM 1270 which FOX Sports Radio host Parker and a group of backers leased from Audacy. On August 27 at 5:00 pm ET, Sports Rap Radio programming was removed from WXYT, with Parker explaining the station’s second round of funding didn’t come through. “Sports Rap Radio, the idea and concept, is viable and serves the underrepresented Black community in sports-talk radio,” Parker said. “I’m proud that we were able to launch the first all-Black sports talk station in this country. I’m proud of the product the staff delivered. But I’m devastated that I couldn’t deliver this for our culture. I failed my people.”  Parker had been working on the concept since 2020 taking note of there being no Black full-time sports radio hosts in Detroit. According to the reports, it’s not just Detroit – minority hosts have long been underrepresented by sports radio stations around the country. Only 10-14 percent of the on-air talent on nearly 800 sports radio stations around the country were Black or Hispanic as recently as 2020. Audacy has flipped WXYT back to its BetQL Network.

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