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Ratings Takeaways

April 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

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

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

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

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

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

NEW YORK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LOS ANGELES

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

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

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

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

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

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

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

CHICAGO

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SAN FRANCISCO

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DALLAS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HOUSTON

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

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

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

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

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

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

ATLANTA

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

News: None in the top twenty

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LONG ISLAND

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

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

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

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

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

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

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

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

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

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

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

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

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

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

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

SAN JOSE

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

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

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

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

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

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

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

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

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

MIDDLESEX

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

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

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

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

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

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

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

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

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

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

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

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

Industry Views

Pending Business: Obstacles to Sales Productivity

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

imWhat will hurt your chances of sales success more, graduating from a low-ranked college or attending too many inefficient sales meetings?

Not exactly a trick question, but enough to make you stop and think.

Remember when having a top-tier college degree was all that mattered? A recent article in the L.A.Times recalled the classic 1999 study that proved where you received your college degree really didn’t affect your career, except for maybe the networking part, maybe not. The bottom line is you don’t need a degree from Harvard to earn a respectable income as a top seller or manager in the media industry.

On the other hand, attend or lead too many inefficient sales meetings and the result may be a career killer.

The recently released 2023 Microsoft Work Trend Report is a wakeup call for every seller and manager in any business, especially ours. The top five “Obstacles to Productivity” in the report read like a what-not-to-do if you are a leader or hope to lead a sales team in the future. There are even a few warning signs if you are a team member struggling to cope with rudderless sales meetings. Let’s review some takeaways from the report and learn how to right the ship before you take on too much water.

— Goals. Every meeting should have clear, simple, actionable goals presented in an easy-to-understand form. The seller should know exactly what action points to implement to improve performance. Can you check the box?

— Perspired or inspired? Every week I talk to a seller working for one of the larger broadcast groups who feels the ready, fire, aim of product overload. Many radio station sellers can sell anything in any market that belongs to the company represented. Would a sales rep at Home Depot in Florida sell you a snow shovel with the same expertise as a rep in Buffalo? How come the biggest companies in the radio business barely surviving on the NYSE don’t learn from the companies that sell at almost $300 a share.

— Soft sales = more meetings. Seriously? In the age of Zoom, Teams, etc. the 2023 Microsoft Work Trend Report still identified “Too many meetings” as one of the top 5 obstacles to productivity. Can we all just hit the pause button on old-school command and control meeting overload? There is a difference between re-skilling and repeating old material. There is a difference between re-strategizing and re-selling a rejected concept.

The AM radio business is in the emergency room in desperate need of a fresh approach to sales. FM radio could be next. Are you looking forward to your next sales meeting?

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

Industry Views

Monday Memo: Apple Heaven and Hell

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imEver lost your phone? It’s an instant sick, sinking feeling. It’s quaint to even call it a “phone,” because it’s…everything. Including us. Like the transistor radio Boomers toted in our youth, it’s audio in your pocket.

For broadcasters and podcasters, a smartphone can be the whole toolbox. MOVIES are being shot on the newest iPhone. The cameras and editing apps are that good. TV and radio can go live, anywhere there’s a signal. And, like Alexa, Siri is conversant. Dictation isn’t just a convenient voice-to-text appliance. It makes lots of apps lots handier, and safer while driving. So, when, suddenly, my phone couldn’t hear me anymore, I went Code Red.

“Testing…testing…”

First triage: Google. But when I satisfied myself that all my settings were as they should be, I needed a person. As expected, the patient expert on Apple’s Support line had a thick foreign accent and great people skills. She had me repeating all the steps Google recommended, and told me I had to update my OS. When repeated attempts failed, I needed in-person handholding, a/k/a The Genius Bar.

Just TRY calling an Apple Store. The local number for the Providence Place Mall location rings in Texas I was told, after I cheated by reaching out to a friend who works for Apple and got me in the door. The irony is painful: They sell telephones but can’t answer one.

im

Antiques Roadshow

I’ll seem my age if it’s 2023, and I’m still toting iPhone 8. Hey, it worked…until it didn’t. And the Genius Bar person explained that it had missed too many OS updates to ever catch-up. And when she ran diagnostics, enough other issues warranted the handoff to sales.

Dazzling as the latest-greatest are, I went with SE, same size/shape/appearance as the 8 being retired. It snapped right into the decorative Block Island cover case that had saved the old phone from so many drops. In the survey Apple emailed later that day, I couldn’t say enough about Matty, the sales guy who walked me through setting-up the new phone. All better now, and although it’s now sans SIM card, the retired 8 phone is a spare tire. If I want to talk to it, I’ll need earbuds. But it’s an otherwise functional iPod that will Facetime, Email, you-name-it, via WiFi.

So then?

With most AM/FM broadcast hours now automated or syndicated, stations that make local human connections will be conspicuous; and niche-topic podcasts will ooze “community.”

I write lots of commercials, and – where pertinent – we assure that “you won’t land in voicemail.” And we’ll emphasize one-on-one support. Here’s how one client – the voice you hear is the owner, whose stations are 100 miles from Dallas – sells expensive cameras, at a store in Dallas: http://getonthenet.com/CompetitiveCameras.mp3

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

Industry News

Cumulus Announces Modified Dutch Auction to Purchase Class A Common Stock

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Cumulus Media Inc reveals in a filing with the Securities Exchange Commission that it is commencing a “modified Dutch auction” tender offer to purchase up to $10 million of shares of its Class A common stock, or such lesser number of shares of its Class A common stock as are properly tendered and not properly withdrawn, at a price not greater than $3.25 and not less than $2.85 per share of Class A common stock, to the tendering shareholder in cash, less any applicable withholding taxes and without interest (the “Offer”). Theim Offer will expire at Midnight, New York City time, at the end of the day, on June 9, 2023 (the “Expiration Date”), unless extended or earlier terminated by Cumulus. The “modified Dutch auction” allows shareholders to select the price, within a price range specified by Cumulus, and the number of shares they are willing to sell at that price (or, should a higher price be determined as the “purchase price,” such higher price). The Offer is being made under Cumulus’s previously announced $50 million share repurchase program. The purchase price will be the lowest price per share (in increments of $0.05) of not greater than $3.25 and not less than $2.85 per share, at which shares have been properly tendered and not properly withdrawn, that will enable Cumulus to purchase the maximum number of shares having an aggregate purchase price not exceeding $10 million (or, if the Offer is not fully subscribed, all shares properly tendered and not properly withdrawn). Promptly after the Expiration Date, Cumulus will, on the terms and subject to the conditions described in the offer to purchase, determine the single per-share purchase price that Cumulus will pay, subject to proration and conditional tender provisions, for shares properly tendered at or below the purchase price in the Offer and not properly withdrawn, and accepted for payment, taking into account the number of shares tendered pursuant to the Offer and the prices specified, or deemed specified, by the tendering shareholders.

Industry News

WRVA’s Jeff Katz is Grand Marshall for VA Parade

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

im

WRVA, Richmond afternoon drive talk host Jeff Katz (pictured above at right) served as Grand Marshal of the Bon Air Victorian Day Parade in Old Bon Air, Virginia on Saturday (5/13). Katz made history as he became the only person to serve as the parade’s Grand Marshal more than once. Katz agreed to return as the Grand Marshal on one condition – he would share the parade duties with his friend Emily Morrissey (above left) – a 24-year-old with a variety of special needs and disabilities who makes beautiful bracelets which raise money for Special Olympics of Virginia via her website www.emilysbracelets.com.

Industry News

CONFERENCE CLOSER: John Catsimatidis to Tackle AM Car Radio Issue

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

WABC, New York/Red Apple Media CEO, John Catsimatidis is set to deliver the closing keynote address at TALKERS 2023 on Friday, June 2 at Hofstra University on Long Island. The speech, titled, “AM Radio and the Automobile Industry,” will be the highlight of the event’s closing reception and tackle the existential issue facingim the industry as a number of car manufacturers unveiled controversial intentions to eliminate AM radios from the dashboard of electric and even gas vehicles going forward. In making the announcement about this additional agenda element, TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison stated, “The automobile issue is rocking the industry and John Catsimatidis has been stepping up to the plate in defense of both radio and good sense. He brings his formidable influence into the arena and we are delighted that he will be delivering a major address to that effect on June 2 at the conference. He has become a radio hero, and this will be another key moment in his growing legacy… and hopefully in prolonging the valuable life of both the AM and FM bands.”

Historic conference nearing sellout

The 26th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest running and most important gathering set for Friday, June 2 at Hofstra University on Long Island is nearing an advance sellout. Conference organizers estimate it will reach that point at any time within the next two weeks. Thus 5:00 pm ET on Tuesday, May 23 has been set as the absolute cutoff point – although it could reach the limit any time before that. According to TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey, “Industry professionals who have attended the TALKERS conference in the past enjoy it and find it to be a valuable experience for a number of reasons beyond the remarkable quality of the speakers and pertinence of the agenda. They appreciate the intimacy of the environment and outstanding ‘who’s who’ in talk media makeup of their fellow attendees. We work very diligently to keep this event within those parameters. Thus, it is only open to people who work within or are associated in some way with the media industry – there is no online open registration – and it all happens within one power-packed day with absolutely no down time.” More than 60 luminaries from the talk media industry are set to speak at a power-packed day of fireside chats, solo addresses, panel discussions, workshops, award presentations, new equipment showcases and endless networking opportunities. All in a beautiful indoor/outdoor state-of-the-art environment conducive to one-on-one conversations. The time to register is now. See more about the agenda, registration, sponsorship and hotel information here.

Industry News

Edison Research: Moms Flocking to TikTok

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Edison Research releases its latest Moms and Media 2023 report and concludes that American moms “are spending more time on the Internet, increasingly embracing digital devices, and using TikTok more.” The report states that U.S. moms self-reported using the Internet 15 minutes more per day than they did in 2022, for aim total of four hours and 15 minutes per day. Ninety percent of moms access the internet from their mobile phones. It also says that TikTok is used by 50% of U.S. moms, up from 42% in 2022, while Facebook is used by 83% of U.S. moms, down from 88% in 2022. Edison Research VP Melissa DeCesare says, “U.S. moms are heavily engaged with social media and online audio, and their time on the Internet continues to increase with the ease of mobile phone access. They are busy with children and are taking advantage of the convenience offered by wireless headphones and smart watches.” Download the report here.

Industry News

WOSH, Oshkosh Wins Honor from WBA

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

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

Industry News

Premiere Networks Personalities Named to BWIR’s Inaugural 30

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

im

Black Women In Radio (BWIR), an organization committed to the historical preservation of America’s Black female broadcasters and their contributions to Black radio culture and digital media, revealed its Black Women in Radio Historic Collection and Oral History Project with the distinguished “Inaugural 30,” highlighting the impactful careers of 39 radio professionals, including Premiere Networks personalities Angela Yee, host of “Way Up with Angela Yee,” Shirley Strawberry, co-host of “The Steve Harvey Morning Show,” and Carla Ferrell, program director/co-host of “The Steve Harvey Morning Show” and program director of “The Sweat Hotel with Keith Sweat.” BWIR revealed the collection and “The Inaugural 30” during the Radio Preservation Task Force Conference April 27-29, 2023 at the Library of Congress on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.  During the conference, attendees including Carla Ferrell met with Karine Jean-Pierre, the first Black woman to serve as White House Press Secretary, and White House Public Engagement Director Steve Benjamin. The “Inaugural 30” are pictured above with Jean-Pierre (at center).

Industry News

Facebook Postings: Rock Radio Legend Mary Turner Has Died

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

At the time of this publication’s posting of the story, reactions from a number of her radio colleagues on Facebook indicate that just a half-year after the death of her husband, Westwood One and PodcastOne founder Norm Pattiz, legendary radio personality and dedicated substance abuse counselor Mary Turner has died. Turner was one of the top personalities at the iconic album rock powerhouse KMET, Los Angeles, where she served on-air between 1972 and 1982. She later achieved national radio prominence hosting theim Westwood One syndicated series “Off The Record With Mary Turner” in which she presented interviews with and personality profiles of some of the biggest musical stars of the day. Turner and Pattiz were married in the early 80s and the two shared what friends described as a happy relationship until his death this past December at 79 due to throat cancer. Turner had her own health issue battling substance abuse in the early 90s, which she bravely overcame. She became a UCLA-certified drug and alcohol counselor and received a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. She went on to be appointed chairwoman of the Betty Ford Center at Eisenhower Hospital in Rancho Mirage. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison, who worked with Turner at both KMET and Westwood One says, “Mary Turner was one of the main pillars upon which the great KMET was built.  Nicknamed ‘The Burner,’ she was a pioneer in album rock radio and an iconic role model for women in the industry.  She was solid on the air – providing music fans a panoramic window into the culture.  She related to artists with an authenticity that engendered trust and they really opened up to her.”  As of press time, further details on this story are not available.

Industry News

NBA & MBA Launch The High School Radio Project

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

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

Industry News

Urban One Unable to File First Quarter Operating Results

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Urban One files a notification of late filing with the Securities Exchange Commission explaining the reason it has not filed its 2022 year-end 10-K (and other forms), as well as its first quarter 2023 10-K. The company says, “On April 7, 2023, Urban One, Inc. (the “Company”) announced that in connection with the preparation of its financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company’s management, in consultationim with its independent registered public accounting firm, re-evaluated the Company’s accounting for the valuation of its investment interest in MGM National Harbor (the “MGM Interest”), which the Company sold for cash proceeds of approximately $136.8 million on April 21, 2023. After further review of the Company’s accounting for its MGM Interest, it was determined that adjustments are required to the Company’s financial statements as of January 1, 2021 and for each of the annual and interim periods ended December 31, 2021 and September 30, 2022 (the “Affected Periods”), due to understatements in the value of the MGM Interest… The Company’s management concluded that in light of the error described above, a material weakness exists in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting for the Affected Periods. The Company’s remediation plan with respect to such material weakness will be described in more detail in the 2022 Form 10-K. Due to the Company’s continued efforts in connection with the Restatement, preparation of the 2022 Form10-K and continued assessment of its internal controls, the Company is not able to finalize the financial statements and related information for inclusion in its quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2023 (“2023 Q1 Form 10-Q”). Accordingly, the Company is unable to file its 2023 Q1 Form 10-Q within the prescribed time period.”

Industry News

WPHT Hosts On-Air Philadelphia Democratic Party Mayoral Debate

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

WPHT noon to 3:00 pm midday host Dom Giordano continues to live up to his well-deserved reputation as the “Dean of Philadelphia Talk Radio” moderating an exclusive on-air debate between the candidates running for mayor in the City of Brotherly Love (5/8). He also furthered his emerging reputation as a diplomatic bridge-builder considering the history of Philadelphia Democrats traditionally avoiding appearing as guests or speakers on conservative news/talk radio. Pictured (l-r) are State Rep. Amen Brown; former City Councilperson Cherelle Parker; and former City Councilperson Allan Domb. Giordano tells TALKERS, “I designed the debate to match the natural flow of talk radio versus buzzing the candidates in and out in restrictive 60-second blocks.”  Giordano will be displaying his skills as a facilitator at the forthcoming TALKERS 2023 conference set for Hofstra University on June 2 as moderator of the panel, “Navigating a Radio Talk Show Hosting Career.”

Industry News

Audacy First Quarter Revenue Falls 5.7%

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The company reports net revenue for the first quarter of 2023 was $259.6 million, a decrease of 5.7% over Q1 of 2022. Audacy reports that total operating expenses increased 1.9% and it is reporting an operating loss of $12.2 million compared to the operating income of $8.5 million it reported in the first quarter of 2022. Theim company posts a Q1 2023 net loss of $35.9 million, an increase of 225% compared to Q1 of 2022. Audacy chairman, president and CEO David J. Field states, “First quarter revenues were down 5.7% with local sales significantly outperforming national as challenging ad market conditions persisted. Cash operating expenses were up 3% during the quarter but are expected to be below prior-year levels for the remainder of 2023. Notwithstanding the difficult economic headwinds, we remain steadfastly focused on delivering significantly higher future levels of Adjusted EBITDA, capitalizing on our multiple growth drivers and our differentiated premium competitive position in the dynamic audio market. We are making progress on each of our drivers, including our podcasting and digital marketing solutions businesses, our reinvented streaming audio platform, our emerging ad tech and ad products, and our enhanced national enterprise business development efforts. In addition, we are encouraged to see some positive signs in our auto business as we continue our vigorous work to weather the storm and await future improvements in market conditions.”

Industry News

Townsquare Media Q1 Revenue Rises 3%

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Releasing its operating results for the first quarter of 2023, Townsquare Media reports net revenue of $103 million, an increase of 3% over the same period in 2022. The company reports in three segments – Subscription Digital Marketing Solutions, Digital Advertising, and Broadcast Advertising. The company says Digital Advertising revenue was $33.7 million (an increase of 15.4% over the same period in 2022), whileim Broadcast Advertising revenue was $45.9 million (down 4.8% over Q1 of 2022), and Subscription Digital Marketing Solutions revenue was $21.5 million (down 1.3% over Q1 of 2022). Townsquare Media CEO Bill Wilson says, “I am pleased to share that Townsquare’s first quarter results exceeded our previously issued guidance for both net revenue and Adjusted EBITDA, due primarily to the continued strength of our digital and local advertising platform and solutions… In the first quarter, we grew cash flow from operations to $9 million, due to the strong cash generation of many of our assets, and opportunistically repurchased more than $12 million of our Unsecured Senior Notes at a discount. We ended the quarter with a strong cash balance of $42 million and maintained our all-time low net leverage multiple of 4.29x. Our growth engine has been and will continue to be our digital solutions. We believe that our Digital First business model and strategy position us to navigate the current macro-economic environment better than most, and that our revenue, profit and cash flow results will be among the best in the local media industry, particularly when compared to 2019 pre-COVID financials given our growth in revenue and profit since 2019. Our confidence is directly tied to the Townsquare team’s efforts and talent, as well as our large, growing, and profitable digital platform which contributes more than half of Townsquare’s total net revenue and profit.”

Industry News

Salem Media Group First Quarter Revenue Up 1.4%

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Salem Media Group reports its operating results for the first quarter of 2023 and reveals consolidated revenue was $63.5 million, an increase of 1.4% over the first quarter of 2022. The company’s total operating expensesim increased 17.4% to $67.7 million leading to an operating loss of $4.2 million as compared to operating income of $5 million posted in Q1 of 2022. Salem reports a net loss of $5.2 million, compared to Q1 2022’s net income of $1.7 million. Salem reports in three segments – Broadcast, Digital Media, and Publishing. Broadcast revenue for the quarter was $48.3 million (down 0.2%), Digital Media was $10.5 million (up 2%), and Publishing revenue was $4.6 million (up 19.7%). Looking ahead, the company is projecting total revenue to decline between 5% and 7% from the second quarter 2022 total revenue of $68.7 million and expects operating expenses to increase between 3% and 6% compared to Q2 of 2022.

Industry News

DraftKings Launches Channel on Samsung TV Plus

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

DraftKings strikes a deal with Samsung TV Plus to put the DraftKings Network channel on the service. DraftKings VP of content Stacie McCollum says, “In bringing together some of the most authentic sports andim entertainment voices under one umbrella, DraftKings Network is the destination for ‘In on the Action’ sports fans and content they love. We look forward to reaching fans with our deep roster of independent, credible and relatable voices that resonate with sports fans and the sports betting community.” At launch, the DraftKings Network programming lineup will feature original shows anchored by “The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz,” Jared Carrabis, “Golic and Smetty with Mike Golic Sr and Jessica Smetana, and more.

Industry News

Howie Carr “Doing Better” After Fainting

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Boston-based, syndicated talk radio host Howie Carr required medical attention after fainting during his daily, afternoon drive talk radio program. According to Patch.com, Carr had said at the beginning of his show thatim he’d undergone a medical procedure earlier in the day and was not feeling well. Carr’s family tweeted, “Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers for Howie. During his show today, he fainted. He is getting care now and doing better.” Carr’s flagship station is iHeartMedia’s WRKO, Boston and he’s heard throughout the Northeast via The Howie Carr Radio Network. Read the Patch.com account here.

Industry News

Jayne Miller to Host Weekend Show on WBAL-AM

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

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

Industry News

Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Forced to Change Award Winners

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

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

Industry News

FNC Dedicates London Bureau to Slain Photojournalist

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

FOX News Channel dedicates its London bureau to its beloved cameraman Pierre Zakrzewski (pictured), who was killed last year after his vehicle was struck by incoming fire while news gathering in a village outside Kyiv, Ukraine. The attack critically injured FNC’s State Department correspondent Benjamin Hall and killedim Ukrainian journalist Oleksandra Kuvshynova. Zakrzewski covered nearly every international story for the network during his almost 20-year tenure and was based in London. In 2021, Zakrzewski notably played a key role in rescuing Afghan freelance associates and their families from the country following the withdrawal of U.S. forces there. FOX News Media CEO Suzanne Scott says, “Pierre was renowned throughout the media industry for his passionate storytelling and remarkable skill, and he was an all-around exceptional colleague. While we are still devastated by his loss, we are extremely proud to honor his legacy by dedicating and naming our London bureau after him.”

Industry News

Detroit Radio Legends Appear on WLW, Cincinnati

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

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Pictured above are a group of Detroit radio legends gathered at a restaurant and joined by Art Vuolo of Vuolovideo. During the gathering, Vuolo connected them with Gary Jeff Walker, evening host on WLW, Cincinnati and they talked about the radio business and the history of the medium. Taking part in the on-air discussion were: Dick Purtan, Kevin O’Neill (WJR), Jo-Jo Shutty-MacGregor (ex-CKLW), Doug Podell (WLLZ), Ken Calvert (ex-WCSX).

Industry News

Wayne Allyn Root and Donald Trump Pose for Pic at Mar-A-Lago

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

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Pictured above is former President Donald Trump (center) posing for a photo with Las Vegas-based, nationally syndicated talk radio personality Wayne Allyn Root (right) and his wife Cindy (left) at Mar-A-Lago on Sunday evening. Root is one of the talk media industry’s staunchest supporters of the former president. After taking the photo, Trump announced to the dining room, “This man Wayne is the greatest. The most important man in Las Vegas.”

Industry News

Former Cuomo Aide to Host WABC Radio Show

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

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

Industry News

AFSP Honors Audacy with Public Education Lifesaver Award

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

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The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention recognized Audacy’s “I’m Listening” program and the company’s continued support of mental health with a Public Education Lifesaver Award during the organization’s annual AFSP Gala in New York City. The event honors those that have gone above and beyond in drawing attention to the cause of suicide prevention, elevating public discourse around mental health and suicide, and successfully creating actual change within our society to end this leading cause of death.  Pictured above are Audacy COO Susan Larkin (right) and actor, author, and mental health advocate Ashley Judd (left), who received the Survivor of Suicide Loss Lifesaver Award in honor of her work following her mother Naomi Judd’s suicide.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

At least nine people are killed in a shooting at a Texas outlet mall and seven others are killed by a vehicle hitting people outside a migrant shelter; the global COVID health emergency is declared over and Dr. Rochelle Walensky exits the CDC; the battle in Washington over the debt ceiling; investors remain nervous about regional banks after the failure of three; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the controversy over Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas’ accepting gifts from a prominent Republican donor; King Charles III is coronated; the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine; experts’ concerns about generative Artificial Intelligence; and the large number of race horse deaths leading up to the Kentucky Derby were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Today’s Radio Talk Show Hosts Face Unique Challenges

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

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

Industry News

Karen McCrary Mitchell Named Market President for iHM Memphis

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

iHeartMedia announces that Karen McCrary Mitchell is promoted to the role of market president for the Memphis operations that includes news/talk WREC-AM and Memphis Black Information Network. She mostim recently served the company as division vice president of digital. McCrary Mitchell says, “I am honored and thrilled to be market president for Memphis & Tupelo. iHeartMedia is engrained in both communities and my stewardship will embrace our alliances and initiate partnerships to strengthen mutual community interests. It’s a privilege to lead this talented team in sharing the iHeartMedia message.”

Industry News

Jay Philpott Joins Cumulus Appleton-Oshkosh as OM

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Cumulus Media appoints Jay Philpott operations manager for the Appleton-Oshkosh, Wisconsin station group that includes news/talk WOSH-AM and four music brands. Philpott will also serve as PD and air talent forim classic hits WVBO-FM. Philpott comments, “I knew very quickly after speaking to and meeting with [regional VP] John Rowe that rejoining Cumulus in Appleton/Oshkosh was the right move for me. I am thrilled to work with the incredible programming team there, and to continue working with [SVP programming operations] John Dimick and [chief content officer] Brian Philips. Coming over from Minnesota for my third tour of Wisconsin radio, I’ll still be wearing purple… but only the stuff related to Prince! Here’s to continue making great radio that our listeners love!”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Salem Media Group Inc will report its first quarter 2023 financial results after the market closes on May 9. The company also plans to host a teleconference to discuss its results on May 9, 2023, at 5:00 pm ET.

CBS Radio is presenting a documentary program for broadcast over the Memorial Day weekend titled, “Who Killed George Polk?” that looks into the shocking murder of CBS news correspondent George Polk in 1947. The program is hosted by Steven Portnoy and executive produced by Craig Swagler. Seventy-five years ago this spring, Polk was executed and his body dumped into the Aegean Sea. Historians who have studied the case over the decades have suggested that the murder of the CBS newsman was actually a conspiracy that involved the US-backed Greek government. The theory of the case is that the CIA – aided by Polk’s fellow journalists — covered up the truth to protect American interests at the height of the Cold War. Redacted CIA documents — original copies of which cannot now be found — give rise to that suspicion.

WNYC Studios launches a new, 12-part season of “More Perfect,” the Supreme Court-focused podcast series that brings the highest court of the land down to earth. “More Perfect” debuted as the first spin-off of “Radiolab” in 2017.  In this new season, host Julia Longoria “revisits the human dramas at the Court that are driving change around core aspects of American life today — from our religious freedom to our artistic expression; from our reproductive choices to our voice in democracy.”

Industry News

The Late Jim Thompson to Receive TALKERS “Humanitarian of the Year” Award

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The late Jim Thompson, who lost his valiant struggle against throat cancer last August at the age of 75, has been named this year’s recipient of the TALKER S magazine Sharon L. Harrison Memorial Award for Outstanding Community Service by a Broadcaster – also referred to as the “Humanitarian of the Year” award. Thompson served successfully as the president of the Broadcasters Foundation of America between 2009im and 2022 guiding the charitable organization to more than quadruple the amount of financial aid it distributes to radio and TV professionals in acute need from $400,000 to nearly $2 million last year. “I am very proud to have known Jim for nearly 40 years as a colleague and a friend,” said Scott Herman, chairman of the Broadcasters Foundation. “Jim believed deeply in helping others and his passion and enthusiasm for life always lit up a room. He always saw the positive in every person and every situation.” Prior to his service to the industry as president of the BFoA, Thompson had been president and CEO of Group W Radio, the second largest radio company in the country during his leadership, and along with Mike Craven was co-owner of Liberty Broadcasting, a 19-station radio group concentrated on the East Coast. He began his broadcasting career as an account executive at KYW-TV, Philadelphia in 1971, where he rose to vice president and general manager. An innovator and visionary, Thompson created the Radio-Mercury Awards to encourage and reward excellence in radio creative. He served on the boards of the Radio Advertising Bureau and the Advertising Council, was vice chairman of the Pennsylvania State Broadcasters Association and a member of numerous committees, including the NAB Radio Futures Committee.  A member of the U.S. Army, Thompson served in Vietnam. The presentation will be made by talk show host Harry Hurley of WPG, Atlantic City at TALKERS 2023 on Friday, June 2 at Hofstra University on Long Island.

The Humanitarian of the Year honor is one of four awards presented annually by TALKERS at its annual national conference.  The others set for this year include the Freedom of Speech award to Tavis Smiley of KBLA Talk 1580, Los Angeles; the Woman of the Year award to Martha Zoller of WDUN, Gainesville, GA; and the award for Lifetime Achievement to Kraig T. Kitchin of Sound Mind, LLC.  All three will be in attendance to make their acceptances. Jim Thompson’s award will be accepted by Broadcasters Foundation of America president Tim McCarthy.

TALKERS 2023 is nearing an advance sellout. See more about the agenda, registration, sponsorship and hotel information here.

Industry News

BIA Advisory Services: WTOP-FM Top Biller in 2022

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

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