Industry News

WSCR’s Dan Bernstein Fired After Bizarre Social Media Spat

Chicago sports talk host Dan Bernstein is out at Audacy’s sports talk WSCR “670 The Score.” This happens less than a week after Bernstein into a back-and-forth on social media with a follower. In a storyimg by Brandon Contes for Awful Announcing, he writes that Bernstein was taken off of his regular afternoon show with co-host Marshall Harris after threatening to reveal the identities of a follower’s children as retaliation for that person accusing Bernstein of lying about releasing a fish that he had caught and posted a picture of. Bernstein write on social media, “I never respond to trolls, but questioning my sportsmanship and conservation awareness sets me off. Wanna fight? I’m a bad enemy. Want your kids involved?” Read the Awful Announcing report here.

Industry News

Audacy and Royals Extend Their Partnership

Audacy and the MLB’s Kansas City Royals announce a multi-year extension to their partnership in which KFNZ-FM “96.5 The Fan” serves as the team’s flagship station, airing all of its games. Games will also beimg streamed via the Audacy app within the Royals broadcast territory. Audacy Kansas City SVP and market manager Roxanne Marati says, “We’re thrilled to extend our longstanding partnership with the Royals and, for the first time ever, bring every pitch, hit, and home run to fans on crystal-clear FM. As the premier home for everything Kansas City sports, we’re proud to be the go-to destination for Royals fans and keep them connected to their favorite team throughout the year.”

Industry News

Rich Herrera to Host “Richmond’s Morning News”

Broadcasting pro Rich Herrera is the new host of “Richmond’s Morning News” on Audacy’s WRVA/WTVR-HD2, Richmond. Audacy Virginia SVP and market manager Bennett Zier says, “Rich brings an authentic voice to the morning airwaves and a strong commitment to his community. His sharp analysis and ability toimg engage listeners in meaningful and entertaining conversation make him a valuable addition to the WRVA team. We’re excited to welcome Rich and continue delivering the news that matters most to our community.” Herrera comments, “I am thrilled to join the WRVA team, a legendary station with a great lineup of hosts and shows. After meeting with Bennett Zier and Zach McHugh and getting the chance to host Richmond’s morning news, I fell in love with the station. My family is excited to make Richmond our home. I want to thank Chris Oliviero and Jeff Sottolano for their support and mentorship, as well as Drew Anderssen, our format vice president, who encouraged me a year ago to transition from sports talk to general news.”

Industry News

Salem Media Group to Sell Remaining Hawaii Stations

Salem Media Group is selling its remaining Hawaii broadcast properties and digital assets to Malama Media Group. Malama is acquiring country KHCM-FM, sports talk KGU-AM and KHCM-AM/K236CR,img Christian KGU-FM, classic hits KKOL-FM, and news/talk KHNR-AM/K232FL. Salem CEO David Santrella says, “While Salem closes our chapter in Honolulu, I am thrilled to know that these stations are going to a buyer that has a shared passion for the formats we have there and plans to keep those formats intact, particularly the Christian teach and talk and conservative news/talk formats.”

Industry News

ESPN Chicago Names Meller White Sox Shows Host

Good Karma Brands’ sports talk WMVP “ESPN Chicago” announces that Jeff Meller is named the host of the Pregame and Postgame shows for Chicago White Sox broadcasts this season, Meller is a longtimeimg producer and host at the station. “ESPN Chicago” director of content Danny Zederman says, “We are excited to add Jeff to the ‘ESPN Chicago’ White Sox broadcast crew. We know fans of the Sox will appreciate his knowledge and will connect with him as a lifelong fan of the club. Meller has been a member of the ESPN Chicago team for 20 years! He has great passion for the Sox and all Chicago sports. This is a ‘dream job’ for him and we know he will add great value to our broadcasts.”

Industry News

Cumulus Media Shuts Down Stations in Cost Saving Move

Cumulus Media is undergoing a corporate mandate to shutter underperforming stations across the country. As reports of dark stations tickle in TALKERS can report that according to the Fulton Sun, Cumulus Mediaimg has ended operations of news/talk KLIK-AM and its translator K278CT. The station ceased broadcasting on March 14. Read the Sun story here. The company also ended operations at sports talk WLZR-AM, Melbourne, Florida and its translator W300DL at 107.9 FM. Last week it was reported that Cumulus ceased operations at KZAC-AM, formerly KSFO-AM.

Industry News

KNBR Re-Ups Host Brian Murphy

Cumulus Media’s San Francisco sports talk outlet KNBR is reportedly extending morning sports talk host Brian Murphy’s deal for another four years. SFGate reports that KNBR program director Mike Hohlerimg announced the news on-air on Tuesday. Murphy is one half of the “Murph and Markus” show. Murphy tells SFGate, “I’ve just really enjoyed my time talking to the Bay Area every morning and talking to my partners – whether it was Paulie Mac or my original partner Tim Liotta or my current partner Markus Boucher. Always enjoyed it, enjoyed the banter with our producers and board ops. I never wanted to leave ever, so it was just going to come down to could we come to an agreement and fortunately we did.” See the SFGate story here.

Industry News

Gun Talk Celebrates 30 Years on the Radio

Tom Gresham’s “Gun Talk” is celebrating 30 years on the air. The host of the nationally syndicated shooting sports talk show says, “‘Gun Talk’ radio is perhaps more important today than when it started 30img years ago. Whether it’s helping the first-time gun buyer sort out what she needs to buy, or exposing politicians who claim to be supporters of the Second Amendment while putting restrictions on this right, there’s plenty to talk about. Responsible gun ownership is strong, and I’m glad to be part of movement.” The program airs live on Sundays from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm ET and is heard on more than 260 stations.

Industry News

“790 The Score” Expands Coverage of Rhode Island FC

Cumulus Media and Major League Soccer’s Rhode Island FC are continuing their partnership and announcing that sports talk WPRV, Providence “790 The Score” is expanding its coverage of the club’s season. WPRV will air live-action coverage of all 17 RIFC away games and the first home game.img Broadcasting the matches will be WPRO-FM personalities Nick Giuliano and Tommy Quinlan. In addition, Rhode Island sportswriter and columnist Kevin McNamara will host a new feature to air on the station every Thursday at 6:20 pm throughout the season titled, “Extra Time with Rhode Island FC.” Cumulus RVP and market manager Holly Paras says, “We are thrilled to continue and expand our broadcast partnership with Rhode Island FC. It’s an exciting time for Rhode Island soccer fans, especially with the opening of the new stadium this year. We look forward to a great season.”

Industry News

TALKERS Generations 2025 at IBSNYC

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Pictured above is Bold Gold Media Group and Bold Gold Media Foundation CEO Vince Benedetto (left) with WPG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley (right). Hurley is presenting Benedetto’s Foundation with a $5,000 grant from Hurley’s own charitable organization. Benedetto also delivered the keynote address and Hurley served as a moderator at the TALKERS Generations 2025 program on Saturday (3/8) at the IBSNYC 2025 conference.

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Pictured above is WRFH, Hillsdale general manager and lecturer in journalism at Hillsdale College Scot Bertram (right) and Vince Benedetto (left). Both took part in the “Old School/New School/Next School — Learning from Each Other” panel discussion. The panel was sponsored by Comrex.

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Pictured above are (from l-r) Texas-based talk radio host Chris Krok; consultant and WPHT, Philadelphia and Talk Media Network syndicated talk host Walter Sabo; WGDJ, Albany owner and talk radio host Paul Vandenburgh; and TALKERS VP/associate publisher and Harrison Legal Strategies senior partner Matthew B. Harrison sitting on the “Launching and Managing a Career in a Changing Media Industry” panel. The panel was sponsored by Dr. Asa

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Pictured above are Harry Hurley (left) and Red Apple Media Group and WABC, New York owner John Catsimatidis (right) during a one-on-one fireside chat titled, “Setting the Stage.” This segment was sponsored by The Ramsey Show.

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Pictured above are (from l-r): Westwood One talk radio host Rich Valdes; WABC, New York journalist and talk host Dominic Carter; and Salem Radio Network talk host Mike Gallagher on the “Radio’s Place in a Diverse, Digital World” panel, sponsored by Radio America and Our American Stories.

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Pictured above are (from l-r): WICC, Bridgeport talk host Lisa Wexler; iHeartMedia VP news/talk/sports Chris Berry; and WRVA, Richmond, Virginia talk host Jeff Katz on the “Finding Truth in an Age of Misinformation” panel, sponsored by Premiere Networks.

TALKERS will present more coverage from Generations 2025 at IBSNYC 2025 throughout this week.

All photos by Olivia Mannarino

 

Industry News

iHeartMedia Presents Special Show for International Women’s Day

Over the weekend, iHeartMedia presented special programming in celebration of International Women’s Day that spotlighted four of its women staffers: Angela Yee, host of “Way Up with Angela Yee”; Eileenimg Woodbury, vice president of marketing at iHeartMedia Los Angeles; Sarah Spain, host of iHeart Women’s Sports “Good Game” podcast; and Jessica Marventano, executive vice present of government affairs. The 30-minute special aired on iHeartRadio stations nationwide on March 8 and 9. The interviews were conducted by Debra Mark from KFI, Los Angeles; Nathalie Rodriguez and Erica Rodriguez from WIOD, Miami and Kathy Walker from KOA, Denver.

Industry News

Audacy Lays Off Several Hundred Staffers in Post-Chapter 11 Move

The radio industry knew these cuts were coming as the rumors of a company-wide RIF were plentiful. On Thursday (3/6), Audacy made the staff reduction that affects people across all departments – corporate, on-air, and off-air. An Audacy spokesperson issued the following statement: “Audacy has made workforceimg reductions to ensure a strong and resilient future for the business. We are streamlining resources to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving media landscape and to best position Audacy to continue serving listeners and advertisers with excellence.” The Desk is reporting a list of those affected by the cuts and in the spoken-word formats, those people include: WINS, New York sports director Marc Ernay; KNX, Los Angeles reporter Charles Feldman; WWL, New Orleans news staffer Mark Menard; KMOX, St. Louis digital content producer Wilson Truong; and others. Read The Desk’s coverage here.

Industry News

Radio Station Owner Dies in Alaskan Avalanche

David Linder, owner of Sub Arctic Media, died in an avalanche in Alaska while on a ski trip. Linder’s Sub Arctic Media owns and operates news/sports/talk KTOE, Mankato, Minnesota, news radio KMHL, Marshall, Minnesota and a number of other stations in those markets. Linder, who was described as an expert skier, leaves behind his wife and three children.

Industry News

Dobbins to Lead Cumulus Des Moines

Cumulus Media names Adam Dobbins vice president/market manager for its Des Moines station group thatimg includes sports talk KBBG-AM “The Champ” and four music brands. He most recently served with Walnut Media in Omaha. As director of sales. Cumulus Media president of operations Bob Walker says, “We are excited to welcome Adam to Cumulus Des Moines as this is a homecoming for him, having grown up in Des Moines and being a fan of our brands. Adam is an accomplished leader that is passionate about connecting local clients to the power of radio and the digital products we offer to help them grow their business.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Las Vegas-based, nationally syndicated talk host Wayne Allyn Root tells TALKERS that he is a member ofimg the “Private Economic Council” – a Washington, DC-based organization composed of “influential business leaders, entrepreneurs and economists promoting free market tax policies, advocating for taxpayers, and helping to support and promote President Trump’s economic agenda.” It also includes former Trump senior economic advisor and former member of the Wall Street Journal editorial board Steve Moore, Papa John’s founder John Schnatter, and former U.S. congressman and current Liberty University School of Business Dean Dave Brat.

Cumulus Media’s KESP-AM, Modesto-Stockton “Sports Radio 970 AM” is the new Central Valley radio broadcast home of the San Francisco Giants. The station is also the official radio broadcast home for the San Francisco 49ers, the Golden State Warriors, and the San Jose Sharks. Cumulus regional VP and market manager Patty Hixson says, “We are thrilled to have this affiliation with the San Francisco Giants. This is a very special franchise and now we get to share all the baseball action with our Sports Radio AM 970 fans. Go Giants!”

Industry News

Audacy Expands Podcast Partnership with CBS

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Audacy announces it is expanding its exclusive, multi-year sales and distribution partnership with CBS to include CBS Entertainment, CBS Media Ventures, CBS News, and CBS Studios podcast slates. The CBS News & Entertainment portfolio has 39 titles including “The Late Show Pod Show with Stephen Colbert,” “60 Minutes,” and “CBS Evening News.” Audacy chief digital officer and president, podcast and streaming J.D. Crowley says, “CBS Sports is a thriving part of our business, and we are thrilled to expand our partnership with CBS’ storied news and entertainment slate. This stellar lineup of talent and podcasts offers a compelling slate of premium content and new scaled opportunities for our advertising partners.”

Industry News

Audacy Names Berbari Yankees Post-Game Show Host

Audacy’s sports talk WFAN-AM/FM, New York names Emmanuel Berbari postgame show host for its Newim York Yankees baseball broadcasts. Berbari, in his third year with the station, will continue to serve as a fill-in play-by-play announcer. Audacy New York market president Chris Oliviero says, “We are excited to have Emmanuel take on an expanded role as the postgame show host for WFAN’s Yankees broadcasts. Emmanuel has been a terrific contributor to our team coverage the last few seasons and his passion for the game makes him a perfect fit to wrap up each game for the fans of the Bronx Bombers.”

Industry News

Rickard and Boyd Join Bowen on “The Fan Morning Show”

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Indianapolis sports talk WFNI-AM/WIBC-HD2/W228CX/W298BB “93.5 & 107.5 The Fan” announces the addition of Jeff Rickard and James Boyd to the morning show with incumbent Kevin Bowen. The Urban One station says, “Kevin Bowen, a staple of Indy sports radio and a trusted voice on ‘The Fan,’ continues his role as your morning companion. Known for his deep roots in Indianapolis and unmatched Colts coverage, Kevin brings day-to-day expertise and the local sports passion fans love. Joining him is Jeff Rickard, an experienced and nationally respected sports media veteran who has called Indianapolis home for over a decade. Twice honored as Sports Illustrated’s National Sports Radio Host of the Year, Jeff delivers a wealth of knowledge, versatility, and charisma that guarantees compelling, high-energy discussions. Adding a fresh perspective is James Boyd, a dynamic Colts reporter for The Athletic with a sharp eye for analysis and storytelling. Alongside his insights on the Colts, James also occasionally writes on the Pacers and Fever.”

Industry News

iHeartMedia Promotes Jessica Fuller in Asheville

iHeartMedia Asheville names Jessica Fuller senior vice president of sales for the cluster that includesimg news/talk WWNC-AM, sports talk WPEK-AM “ESPN Asheville,” plus five music brands. She says, “I couldn’t be more thankful for the mentorship and support I’ve received throughout my career at iHeart, which has brought me to this exciting opportunity. Working alongside such talented colleagues in this beautiful, resilient mountain town is a true privilege. I look forward to continuing to grow with iHeartMedia and helping our amazing clients succeed with the best strategies in the business.”

Industry News

Matt Jones Inks New Deal with iHeartMedia Kentucky

Air personality Matt Jones and iHeartMedia sign an exclusive five-year agreement for Jones to continue his current role as host of “Kentucky Sports Radio” on NewsRadio 630 WLAP-AM in Lexington, SportsTalk 790img AM in Louisville and 51 other stations around Kentucky. iHeartMedia Kentucky/Memphis area president Kristy Beebe states, “We are incredibly excited to extend our partnership with Matt Jones and ‘Kentucky Sports Radio.’ Matt’s unique insights and engaging style have made him a beloved figure in the sports community, and we are proud to continue bringing his show to our dedicated audience. This renewal underscores our commitment to delivering top-notch sports content and maintaining our position as the leading audio company in the region.”

Industry News

Susan Larkin Joins NAB Radio Board of Directors

Audacy chief operating officer Susan Larkin is appointed to the National Association of Broadcasters Radio Board of Directors by Radio Board Chair Collin Jones, assuming the seat previously held by David Field.img Larkin leads Audacy’s portfolio of markets, revenue and content teams, overseeing the company’s extensive audio platform, which includes broadcasting, podcasting, digital, network, live events, music, sports and news. She is also a board member of the Radio Advertising Bureau and has served on the boards of the Florida Association of Broadcasters and Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Industry News

MSG Broadcaster Al Trautwig Dies at 68

The New York Post reports that New York sports broadcaster Al Trautwig died on Sunday (2/23) at his home on Long Island after complications from cancer. The Post notes, “The Long Island native had been a mainstay in New York sports fans’ homes over his decades-long broadcasting career, covering everything from the Yankees to the Knicks and Rangers, as well as the New York City Marathon and the Olympics.” See the Post story here.

Industry News

WQAM, Miami to Host Buckets & Bets Event

Audacy sports talk WQAM-AM, Miami will host “Buckets & Bets,” presented by Hard Rock Bet March 20-23 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood. Described as the ultimate college basketballimg tournament watch party, Buckets & Bets will “provide college basketball enthusiasts with a front-row seat to all the men’s college basketball tournament action. Massive LED screens around the room will display every game from the tournament. Fans will have access to an open bar, on-site betting, bar games, insider commentary, and more special surprises.”

Industry Views

Monday Memo: For Podcasters, “The Magic Words” Are Even MORE Magic

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imgRadio is an intimate, one-to-one medium; so “you” and “your” – speaking to one person – will resonate more than addressing “all of you.” There’s only one of me.

Podcasting is even more personal, because listeners choose content in a more intentional way than they push dashboard AM/FM buttons. And because many podcast topics are specialty topics, it’s high-affinity stuff.

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A major league sportscaster I’ve coached (who really gets it) put it this way: “We’re Fed-Exing it to their brains.” Said another way: Make eye contact.

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke and connect on LinkedIn

Industry News

iHeartMedia’s KGB-AM Named SDFC’s English Radio Partner

Major League Soccer’s San Diego FC announces that iHeartMedia’s KGB-AM “San Diego Sports 760 AM” will serve as the club’s official English-language broadcast radio partner while Grupo PSN’s TUDN 1700 AM will be the club’s official Spanish-language radio partner. The multi-year partnerships ensure comprehensiveimg live match coverage, expert analysis, and exclusive club content for San Diego FC fans across the region. San Diego FC CEO Tom Penn comments, “We are thrilled to welcome iHeartMedia and Grupo PSN as our official radio broadcast partners. These partnerships will allow us to connect with fans in both English and Spanish, ensuring that every moment of San Diego FC’s journey is accessible to our passionate supporters.”

Industry News

KDKA-TV Talk Host Jon Burnett Dies; Donates Brain to Science

KDKA-TV, Pittsburgh talk host and weatherman Jon Burnett died on February 19 at the age of 71. SportSkeeda reports that Burnett died from complications for CTE (Chronic traumatic encephalopathy). He’dimg been diagnosed with suspected CTE two years ago and joined the National Sports Brain Bank at the University of Pittsburgh. He told “Pittsburgh Today Live” at the time, “If I can help anybody on this road, who is on this road or will be on this road in the years ahead, I feel better about being able to do that and being able to learn from my experiences.” Burnett played sports throughout his childhood and played college football at the University of Tennessee. (Photo: KDKA)  Read the SportSkeeda story here.

Industry News

Audacy Promotes Jake Vulinec at “92.3 The Fan” in Cleveland

Audacy promotes sports talk personality Jake Vulinec to host of the 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm program “Overtime on The Fan” on WKRK-FM, Cleveland “92.3 The Fan.” Station brand manager Keith Britton comments, “Jake is a rising star in this industry, and we couldn’t be more excited to see him take over ‘Overtime.’ Jake’simg dedication, enthusiasm, and fresh perspective will bring new energy to the show, and we know our audience will love what he brings to the table.” Vulinec joined “92.3 The Fan” in May 2023 as a part-time update anchor and fill-in host. He says, “It’s surreal to me to be starting my career in the place I’ve called home for my entire life. I’m incredibly excited for the opportunity to continue to grow alongside the outstanding team at ‘92.3 The Fan’ and the best fanbase in the world. The city of Cleveland and my fellow fans have given so much to me, and now I hope to be able to give some of that back to them.”

Industry News

Tegna’s Columbus Studios Threatened with Powdery Substance

According to a report in the Columbus Dispatch, Tegna’s Columbus studios – from which sports talk WBNS-FM, WBNS-AM, and WBNS-TV operate – were the target of a threat on Thursday (2/13). The stationsimg received a letter that also contained a “suspicious white, powdery substance” and forced the company to evacuate the building for several hours. Station employees continued to broadcast from the parking lot while authorities, including a hazmat team, investigated. They were allowed to return to the building after a period but so far authorities have offered no details on the letter or the powdery substance. See the Dispatch story here.

Uncategorized

Deborah Norville to Emcee BFoA’s Golden Mic Gala

The Broadcasters Foundation of America announces that Deborah Norville, longtime BFoA Board member and two-time EMMY-winning anchor of “Inside Edition,” will emcee this year’s Golden Mic gala and fundraiser on Monday, March 10, at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. The Golden Mic Award will beimg presented to Brian Lawlor, president, Scripps Sports. Additionally, Scott Herman, former COO of CBS Radio and Chair of the BFOA, will pay tribute to Dan Mason, former CEO of CBS Radio and past Chair of the BFOA, with the 2025 Edward F. McLaughlin Lifetime Achievement Award, and Katz Media Group will be recognized with the 2025 Philip J. Lombardo Spirit Award. Katz Media Group CEO Mark Gray will accept the award. BFoA president Tim McCarthy says, “We’re excited about this year’s honorees and presenters and extend our thanks to Deborah for serving as the evening’s emcee. While we gather to honor these highly respected and accomplished broadcasters for their contributions to our industry, we must always keep in mind, and in our hearts, the broadcasters who we help when they need us the most.”

Industry News

Good Karma Brands’ “ESPN 106.3” Partners with Soccer’s Inter Miami CF

Good Karma Brands sports talk outlet WUUB-FM, West Palm Beach “ESPN 106.3” is the official English-language radio partner of Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami CF. Good Karma VP and market managerimg Stephanie Prince-Springmeyer says, “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Inter Miami CF to include English-language broadcasts on ESPN 106.3… The beautiful game has the unique ability to unite communities, and we’re proud to be at the forefront of bringing this excitement to all fans in South Florida via ‘Deportes 760AM’ and ‘ESPN 106.3FM.’”

Industry News

Harrison and Neer Dissect Media-Pop Culture Elements of Super Bowl LIX

MH Interview

Harrison and Neer
Harrison & Neer circa 1970

Longtime WFAN, New York sports talk host Richard Neer is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Neer is a five-decade-plus veteran of two heritage Big Apple radio stations – sports talker WFAN (where he still hosts a show) and, before that, seminal album rocker WNEW-FM. He is the author of the landmark best-seller FM: The Rise and Fall of Rock Radio (Villard, 2001) and the popular series of Riley King detective novels. Harrison and Neer – whose friendship dates back to their days together in rock radio of the late 60s/early 70s – engage in a fast-paced, spirited conversation about the confluence of pop culture elements surrounding and emerging from the just-concluded Super Bowl LIX, dissecting its ratings, commercials, politics, music, customs, and social impact.  Not to be missed.  To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here. www.MHInterview.com