Motor Racing Anchor Jeff Striegle to Take the Checkered Flag on His NASCAR Career
As NASCAR crowns a Premier Series Champion this Sunday, November 10th at Phoenix Raceway, Jeff Striegle, Motor Racing Network lead anchor, will sign off for the last time capping a 27-year career with the network. Striegle has witnessed some incredible moments with MRN including in recent years the introduction of the Busch Clash at the L.A. Coliseum and Chicago Street Course, the closest finish in the history of the sport just this spring at Kansas Speedway, but for him “It’s hard to pick out just one racing
moment.” Striegle tells TALKERS, “There are so many amazing memories. For me, what I will miss most are the people. Everywhere we go, we meet wonderful people, great race fans that tell us, ‘We have been listening to MRN for years…’ they always want to thank us for what we do. Without the fans, there would be no need for the Motor Racing Network.” “Throughout his time with the network Jeff has lent his talents to a number of positions around the racetrack before finding his way to the broadcast booth in 2013,” said MRN president Chris Schwartz. “His broadcast career began like so many others by working the public address booth providing the soundtrack for thousands of fans at his local racetrack, in Jeff’s case Berlin Raceway in Marne, Michigan. He has been involved with calling some of the sport’s most iconic moments, and it is fitting that the checkered flag will fall on his broadcast career by calling the final laps of another NASCAR Cup Series Championship.” Motor Racing Network will have flag to flag coverage of the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race Sunday, November 10th beginning at 2pm ET. The NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race will be carried LIVE on approximately 300 radio station partners across the United States, the NASCAR mobile app, and at MRN.com. For affiliation in your area, contact Bob Quick, director, radio partnerships & traffic at Motor Racing Network by email at bquick@mrn.com or by calling 704-262-6713.
Audacy names Jonathan Peterlin (pictured above right) as afternoon show co-host on 92.3 The Fan (WKRK-FM) in Cleveland. Peterlin will join co-host Nick Wilson (above left) and be heard weekdays from 2:00 to 7:00 pm ET. Peterlin had previously served as the station’s evening host since 2022. “We believe Jonathan’s addition and presence on the show will bring a unique passion and energy to afternoon drive,” said Keith Britton, the station’s brand manager. “He has shown both the ability and readiness for this move and we are full speed ahead in our commitment to providing our listeners with the most engaging sports talk and entertainment on a daily basis.” “92.3 The Fan and its listeners have been with me through every major chapter of my life, and this station has been a constant presence in my world,” said Peterlin. “Afternoon drive in Cleveland is the pinnacle of what I’ve always aspired to, and I truly couldn’t imagine a better person to share this journey with than my good friend, Nick Wilson. I’m extremely thankful for the chance to continue this journey with the listeners and the team at 92.3 The Fan.”
Cumulus Media Inc. today (11/4) announced operating results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024. Mary G. Berner, president and CEO of Cumulus Media, said, “During the third quarter, we delivered revenue and EBITDA in-line with pacing commentary and analyst estimates. Given the market challenges, we maintained our focus on what we can control. Specifically, we continued investing to drive growth in our digital businesses, including in digital marketing services which increased revenue nearly 40% in the quarter; capitalizing on areas of improvement in national and political ad spending; maximizing operating cash flow; and improving operating leverage through ongoing expense reductions.” Berner continued, “Looking forward, the advertising environment remains uncertain. Nonetheless, Cumulus has a valuable set of assets with which to navigate that uncertainty including: profitable and fast-growing digital businesses; a vast national platform that can reach audiences whenever and wherever they choose to listen; extensive feet-on-the-street local sales capabilities which allow us to walk product through the door; premium programming with particular strength in sports and news/talk; an extensive untapped audio library; and a leadership team with a strong track record of expense management and disciplined stewardship of capital. As we continue to execute against our priorities, we see many paths for leveraging these assets to maximize the value they produce for our shareholders.”
As the Company continues its re-imagination, Borelli will lead Audacy’s audio research and insights practice, closely supporting its forward growth agenda and client enablement strategies. He will report to Paul Suchman, chief marketing officer, and work closely with Audacy’s leadership team across revenue, digital and programming. Suchman tells TALKERS, “Ray’s research experience across channels and media, coupled with his unique ability to turn data into powerful narratives, will make him an excellent addition to the team as we execute our forward strategy,” adding, “With tenure spanning some of the most influential media companies, his expertise in driving meaningful outcomes for clients will be a strong asset as Audacy continues to elevate our value to the advertising community.” “I am thrilled to be joining Audacy at such an exciting time for the audio industry,” said Borelli. “Audacy’s portfolio of brands and research platform is best in class, and I look forward to working closely with our team and advertising partners to help fuel exponential growth for the business.” Borelli previously served as VP of ad sales research at Warner Bros. Discovery, directing the go-to-market sales narrative for WBD’s portfolio. He also previously served as SVP for CNBC, leading the company’s research and scheduling teams and helping build the brand’s market-leading digital business. His research and leadership experience was also built on tenures at the National Basketball Association and FOX Sports.
Cumulus Media, which describes itself as a top “audio-first” media company, and TuneIn, self-proclaimed world’s leader in “live audio,” today (10/29) announced that they have renewed and expanded their existing content partnership. Under the terms of the deal, TuneIn will continue to make Cumulus Media’s local sports, news, talk and entertainment programming available to its 75 million monthly global listeners. The extended agreement also includes a new, non-exclusive sales and supply partnership to optimize digital audio advertising monetization for Cumulus’ diverse radio stations. Cumulus owns and operates 400 radio stations across 84 markets with an extensive collection of nationally syndicated sports, news, talk and entertainment programming.
“When iHeartMedia New York partnered with the New York Road Runners (NYRR) to produce this inaugural radio broadcast of the marathon, it was a no-brainer to put Len at the helm of the broadcast,” said Tom Cuddy, program director for 710 WOR. “His association with New York sports, during his more than 50-year television career, and his ‘second life’ as co-host of the WOR morning show since 2015, ensure that Len will make this a can’t-miss broadcast.” “I’m honored to be hosting WOR’s maiden voyage with the TCS New York City Marathon,” said Berman. “I’ve hosted TV coverage of the event many times and it’s consistently one of the best days of the year in the city. We look forward to conveying that same message to our listeners.”
“I have been blessed to call WGN Radio home for the past three decades,” Manfredini tells TALKERS. “But in the end, it’s all about our listeners. I’m excited to continue to help them better understand how their homes work, show them they can have fun, and, of course, remind them to never hold a nail for someone else.” The Chicagoland native will be celebrating his 30th anniversary on WGN Radio in 2025. Mr. Manfredini first appeared on the station as a guest on the Bob Collins Show in 1995 following a letter writing campaign to pitch a call-in home improvement show on WGN.
“We are delighted that Lou will be with us for his 30th year and beyond,” said WGN Radio VP/GM Mary Sandberg Boyle. “In the nearly 30 years since first appearing on WGN Radio, Lou’s presence across the media world has evolved considerably. Yet, what truly sets him apart is his natural gift of connecting to and interacting with our listeners in the special way that only radio does. Making those listener ‘connections’ has historically been – and will continue to be – the very fabric of WGN 720.” Manfredini can also be heard on weekday segments with John Williams (Mondays), Lisa Dent (Thursdays) and Bob Sirott (Fridays). 
It will be carried by LibertyNewsRadio.com or video stream at TheBigMigShow on Rumble. For additional information or press inquiries, please contact Sam Bushman at 801-756-9133 or LibertyRoundTable@gmail.com.
iHM Portand Adds Sean Highkin as Trail Blazers Correspondent on WPOJ-AM. iHeartMedia Portland’s Rip City Radio 620, “Your Home of the Portland Trail Blazers,” announced today (10/24) that acclaimed sports journalist Sean Highkin will join the station as the Portland Trail Blazers correspondent, effective immediately. He will provide comprehensive coverage of the games, practices, press conferences and everything revolving around the Portland Trail Blazers on their flagship station. Highkin brings over a decade of experience covering the NBA, including seven years dedicated to the Portland Trail Blazers. As a trusted voice in basketball, his experience includes contributing to national outlets such as Bleacher Report, USA Today, The Athletic and NBC Sports. In 2023, Highkin was named Oregon Sportswriter of the Year by the National Sports Media Association. “Sean’s knowledge, expertise and impressive track record will elevate and take our Trail Blazers coverage to the next level,” said Marshal Burgess, metro president of iHeartMedia Portland. “His insightful analysis and in-depth reporting have made him a respected voice in the sports journalism community, and we are thrilled to have him join the iHeartRadio Portland team.”
New York Festivals 2025 Radio Awards Announces Distinguished Grand Jury. The New York Festivals® Radio Awards has announced its 2025 Grand Jury. The 2025 Radio Awards Grand Jury features over 100 global leaders from the radio industry across six continents. This distinguished panel comprises world-class content creators, industry visionaries, and iconic voices. Recruited from renowned companies, these directors, producers, journalists, writers, and sound artists are celebrated for their innovation and engaging storytelling. “The robust world of audio storytelling today is fully represented in the 2025 edition of the Grand Jury,” said Rose Anderson, EVP/executive director, New York Festivals Radio Awards. “From audiobooks to podcasts, from investigative journalism to live events, and from mystery to social justice, this year’s jury members volunteer their time and lend their expertise.” The New York Festivals Radio Awards provides a platform to celebrate creative storytellers from around the world. For 67 years, NYF has recognized both innovation and exceptional quality in broadcast audio content across all genres and platforms since 1957. Since 2023, The National Press Club, has partnered with New York Festivals to honor the highest scoring news program across the Coverage Of Breaking News Story, Coverage Of Ongoing News Story, Nonfiction Series, Investigative Journalism Podcast, and News Podcast categories. The winner will be announced during the 2025 Storytellers Gala in April. NYF’s Radio Awards receives entries from radio stations, networks, and independent producers from over 30 countries around the globe. The mission of the competition is to honor the achievements of the men and women who make up the global audio storytelling community. To see complete list of Grand Jurors click here 
The hallmark awards ceremony, presented by CalViva Health in the New Exhibit Hall of the Fresno Convention & Entertainment Center. The awards paid tribute to 10 Central Valley women who have excelled professionally, served as role models, and given back to their communities, as well as one business honored for its support of women and women’s issues. Patty Hixson’s successful radio career spans 32 years serving the Central Valley. An active leader in the community, she has been a member of the Fig Garden Rotary Club for 30 years, serving as president in 2018, and was a longtime member of the California State University-Fresno’s Bulldog Foundation. Hixson also served on the Board of Directors of the Greater Fresno Area Chamber of Commerce. Patty Hixson said: “I’m honored and humbled to be recognized among this astute group of leaders. Giving back to the community is a central part of my DNA, and I thank the Marjaree Mason Center for this award and for its important efforts supporting all women in our community.”
The agreement extension will feature Jeff Lewis expanding his popular show, “Jeff Lewis Live” to two hours a day giving listeners more of Jeff Lewis promoted as “just the way you want him…live and uncensored.” Lewis tells TALKERS, “SiriusXM has given me the freedom to build a show that is unfiltered, unapologetic, and morally corrupt. I’m grateful for the opportunity to grow my show and my cult…I mean, listeners.” The show will now air Monday through Fridays from 12:00 noon – 2:00 pm ET on SiriusXM’s 
The 22nd annual Children’s Miracle Network Radiothon benefitting McLeod Children’s Hospital was recently held in Florence, SC. During the Radiothon, Community Broadcasters’ stations WWKT 99.3 The Cat, (news/talker) WFRK Live 95.3, WPDT Almighty 105.1 and WSIM 93.7 Frank FM hosted live broadcasts from McLeod Children’s Hospital. Pictured above: former SC Lt. Gov. Ken Ard and station VP operations Dave Baker (r) during broadcast on news/talk Live 95. “As always, at Community Broadcasters, we are always doing our best to live up to our name, and stand for the communities that we broadcast in,” company VP Wayne Mulling tells TALKERS. “And we are proud of what we have been able to do in hosting the Children’s Miracle Network Radiothon each year to raise funds for McLeod Children’s Hospital and Children’s Miracle Network. We are humbled by the amount of people that have been helped directly through the years by these organizations, and glad to play a small part in keeping this active and ongoing to continue to help others every year. We invite you to be a part as well.” DJs and talk show hosts asked listeners for donations in support of the programs and technology that McLeod offers to families in the Pee Dee. Listeners also had the opportunity to hear real stories from those who have benefited directly from the McLeod Children’s Hospital, in addition to interviews with doctors, nurses and employees who all share the same passion. “What an exciting Radiothon we had this year raising more than $127,000 for the McLeod Children’s Hospital!” says Davis Sawyer, Children’s Hospital fund manager. “The hard work and dedication from all involved truly make a difference in the lives of the children treated in McLeod Children’s Hospital. I value the partnership and friendship we have with Community Broadcasters and look forward to growing this partnership as we continue to impact the children we serve.” There was also a live auction throughout the week, with some bids surpassing $500. Auction items were donated from collegiate and professional sports teams, nationally known musicians and local businesses. At the conclusion of the Radiothon, this year’s donations equaled $127,098. All donations will remain here in the Florence area to help fund life-saving McLeod programs, and purchase new technology to better serve the Pee Dee families. To learn more about the annual Radiothon, check out this year’s sponsors, or make a donation, visit 
Keenan coached big time teams in the Soviet Union, Russia, Canada, China, the U.S. and more for over five decades! What does it take to be a leader in the competitive and often cutthroat world of major league professional sports? How have the generations of young athletes changed over this stretch of time? What is the state of sportsmanship in today’s culture? What is it like dealing with the media from a professional sports perspective? How is sports culture different around the world? How is gambling impacting sports? Is hockey enjoying healthy growth as both a sport and a business? These questions and more are tackled in an informative and universally interesting conversation between Harrison and Keenan. Keenan, considered one of hockey’s most controversial and intriguing figures, has just released an autobiography titled Iron Mike: My Life Behind the Bench (Randon House Canada, 2024).
“The Doug Gottlieb Show” will debut on Northeast Wisconsin airwaves, alongside the return of “The Mike Heller Show” to WSCO, while “The Show” continues with host Eric Balkman. Starting October 28, “The Doug Gottlieb Show,” a FOX Sports Radio nationally syndicated program, will air weekdays from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm. “Our show is so excited to expand our footprint in Wisconsin!” said Doug Gottlieb. “Everywhere I go, people ask where they can hear us…now the answer is WSCO! Let’s go!” Woodward Community Media’s talk brand manager, B.J. DeGroot, shared, “With Doug now serving as head coach for UW-Green Bay Men’s Basketball and continuing his national show, it was essential to bring his voice to sports fans in Northeast Wisconsin.” Additionally, WSCO will welcome back the statewide syndicated “Mike Heller Show,” which will air weekdays from 12:00 noon – 2:00 pm. Heller, a local favorite and graduate of Appleton East High School and UW-Oshkosh, previously hosted the show on WSCO from 2016 to 2019. “The Show with Leo and Balky’ will now be rebranded as “The Show with Balky” following John Leopold’s decision to step back to focus on his sales executive role. Balky will continue as the solo host from 11:00 am – 12:00 noon. DeGroot added, “We are thrilled to enhance our local and regional sports coverage by bringing Doug’s show to our audience and welcoming Mike back to Northeast Wisconsin.”
The station will continue to be heard on 1250 AM. Concurrent with the FM relaunch, the station will introduce two new local weekday shows. “The Pack-A-Day Radio Show” will air weekdays from 8:00 am to 9:00 am CT. Hosted by Green Bay Packers insider Andy Herman, the show will serve as a destination for all things green and gold. Herman currently hosts the “Pack-A-Day Podcast” and “Packer Report.” The station will also launch “The Mason Crosby Show,” starring 17-year NFL kicker, Super Bowl champion and Packers all-time leading scorer Mason Crosby, weekdays from 9:00 am to 11:00 am CT. The show will also feature Mitch “Thunder” Nelles as co-host and veteran producer Tommy Wortz. “We couldn’t be more excited to bring The Fan back to FM and expand the reach of the best sports talk in Milwaukee,” said Jason Bjorson, SVP/market manager, Audacy Madison and Milwaukee. “Milwaukee has long been a premier market for football coverage, and through the addition of ‘The Pack-A-Day Radio Show’ and ‘The Mason Crosby Show,’ coupled with our existing must-listen programming, we’re elevating the listening experience and keeping fans connected to their favorite teams.” The station’s weekday lineup rounds out with “The Jim Rome Show” from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm CT and “Wisconsin Sports Daily” with station APD Steve “Sparky” Fifer from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm CT.
According to a report in The Forum, Fieldstone Group, which owns Fargo heritage radio station “The Flag” at AM 1100 / FM 92.3, is planning to purchase WDAY Radio from Forum Communications, owner of WDAY-TV and The Forum. In November 2020, Fargo-based Fieldstone Group began managing WDAY. If the sale is approved by the FCC, Fieldstone will own the 102-year-old AM radio station, its online properties, social media accounts, and transmitter/tower site. Terms of the sale were not immediately disclosed by the buyer or the seller. “We are thrilled to see this day arrive,” said Steve Hallstrom, president and managing partner of Fieldstone Group. “We thank the Marcil family and the leaders and staff of Forum Communications for a great partnership these last four years. WDAY Radio has always had a tradition of serving the community with great news, weather, ag, and sports and we’ve enjoyed the journey of growing those elements with the help of our friends and partners at Forum Communications.” Hallstrom said it’s been important to have WDAY Radio “serve the community with quality local programming from sunrise to sunset, which is becoming a rarity in our business. I also want to thank our listeners for their loyalty and the many local businesses and organizations that have trusted us with their advertising and marketing dollars.” Fieldstone Group also owns KTGO “The Flag” in Tioga, N.D, at AM 1090 and FM 92.7, three stations in Grand Rapids, Minn: KOZY 1320 AM / 93.1 FM, KMFY 96.9 FM and KBAJ 105.5 FM; and The McKenzie County Farmer newspaper based in Watford City, N.D. “WDAY Radio is North Dakota’s longest-serving broadcast operation,” said Scott Hennen, VP/partner of Fieldstone Group and general manager of WDAY Radio from 2001-2009. “It is an honor to take ownership of this iconic community source of information.”
language sports network FOX Deportes. It will also be available in podcast form via FOX News Audio. Ahead of the debut, FOX News Digital will launch a Spanish-language version of the FOXNews.com website beginning today which will be machine translated. Campos-Duffy comments, “I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to host ‘FOX Noticias.’ As the fastest-growing electorate, accounting for nearly 20% of the population, the Hispanic American community is thriving, and I am proud to bring a new show that breaks down the news of the day with a focus on the kitchen table issues that matter most to our community.”
Storm specialist Mike Seidel is currently reporting from Madeira Beach, FL while correspondent Robert Ray is in Fort Myers Beach, FL. On Tuesday, Seidel will report from St. Petersburg, FL with Ray remaining in Fort Myers. FOX Weather will also deploy meteorologists Britta Merwin and Steve Bender to Sarasota, FL, Bob Van Dillen to Tampa Bay and Haley Meier to Daytona Beach, FL while meteorologists Michael Estime, Craig Herrera, Ari Sarsalari, Ian Oliver and Kiyana Lewis will anchor coverage from FOX Weather headquarters in New York. FOX Weather hurricane specialist Bryan Norcross will also provide continuous updates from New York. FOX Weather Digital will provide comprehensive coverage of Hurricane Milton, available 24/7 on FOXWeather.com and in the FOX Weather app, including the exclusive Hurricane HQ tab. FOX Weather Digital will include leading meteorological analysis, exclusive expertise from Norcross, coverage from all FOX Weather field resources and related content of every angle related to US impacts of the storm.
With its state-of-the-art technology capabilities that includes satellite and IP distribution and live sports production, the company is available to offer additional services to those in need. “At Skyview Networks, our top priority is the safety of our partners and the continuity of their operations,” Aaron Mellis, VP, business services, Skyview Networks tells TALKERS. “With Hurricane Milton approaching, our team is fully prepared and ready to step in with services to support our clients’ needs, ensuring they are met seamlessly.” For inquiries on extended services in preparation of Milton, please contact 
This edition explores game-changing shifts in creativity, artificial intelligence, measurement, and audience activation—highlighting key trends crucial for navigating the evolving ad environment. KEY FINDINGS: According to research compiled in the guide, emotional messaging is gaining renewed importance in audio advertising, driving an 8.2% increase in consumer action with ads that evoke positive feelings. In the creator economy, “test and see” strategies are becoming obsolete, as authentic creator partnerships are now essential to media plans. In fact, 40% of advertisers are shifting from one-off campaigns to year-long collaborations with creators, recognizing the lasting value these partnerships offer.
Britton had previously served as the station’s assistant brand manager since 2019. “Keith’s deep understanding of the station, his passion for sports radio, and his proven leadership make him the ideal person to drive The Fan’s continued success,” says Jeff Miller, SVP, market manager and director of sales, Audacy Cleveland. “Keith has played an integral role in shaping the station’s identity over the years, and we look forward to seeing him grow in this new position.” Britton tells TALKERS, “I’m humbled and excited to lead this radio station and our incredible staff. Having been here since the station flipped to sports in 2011, it’s been a phenomenal experience to help build a strong foundation with unlimited potential,” adding, “There are big shoes to fill in this position, and I want to personally thank Andy Roth for his endless mentorship, former market manager Tom Herschel, current market manager Jeff Miller, and operations manager Chase Daniels. This opportunity is one that I’ve looked forward to for a long time and one that I will value and approach with enthusiasm every day to help build the legacy of Audacy Cleveland.”
The one-hour show is live weekdays from 6:00 -7:00 pm. WGCH covers Fairfield County, CT as well as neighboring Westchester County, NY. The station serves the community with extensive local news, sports and talk programming. Boyer tells TALKERS, “My show will be fast paced, very informative, full of joy and very uplifting, for my listeners.” Boyer hosts two other syndicated shows – “Cannabis Talk A-Z” and “Frankie Boyer Radio.” For more information contact 508-878-1782 or 
He will report directly to PodcastOne’s president Kit Gray and will leverage his industry expertise to expand internal sales and publishing synergies, increase talent revenues and the company’s prominence with both media buyers and content creators. 
Departments, sheriff of Bernalillo County, head of public safety for the State of New Mexico under Governor Gary Johnson. Cumulus Albuquerque vice president and market manager Jeff Berry states, “I am SO excited for Darren’s return to Cumulus Albuquerque as program director. His passion for radio and vision for the future are contagious. We are fortunate to have someone with his background re-join our industry in a leadership position. Welcome home, Darren!” White comments, “I am honored to accept the position of program director for News Radio KKOB and KNML the Sports Animal, and I am humbled by the confidence Cumulus Media has placed in me for this exciting new challenge. Having been a part of Cumulus for over a decade, I have seen firsthand the incredible dedication and talent of the teams at both stations. With a proven history of delivering provocative, engaging, and informative radio that is second to none, I look forward to building on that legacy by attracting new listeners and continuing to bring dynamic programming to our loyal radio family.”
regular and postseason games, as well as select Spring Training games. Audacy SVP and market manager David Yadgaroff says, “As we gear up for another Red October, we’re excited to announce our continued partnership with the Phillies. The Phillies are synonymous with this city’s great sports culture, and we’re proud to continue serving as the home for Phillies faithful – from every pitch throughout the season to yearlong updates and headlines surrounding their favorite team.”
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.”
Focusing 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 
Audacy, 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.” 
Audacy 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.
Benztown, 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. 
PodcastOne
Effective 10/1, Kevin Washington has been named operations manager for Alpha Media’s five Dayton, OH stations (WDHT-FM, WROU-FM, WGTZ-FM, WCLI-FM and sports talk, WING-AM). Washington has 20+ years of experience with Alpha Dayton and most recently held the position of APD/promotions director. Alpha Media’s SVP/market manager Brett Beshore tells TALKERS, “I’m thrilled to be promoting Kevin into this pivotal role with Alpha Dayton. He’s consistently demonstrated strong commitment to the organization’s values and goals, delivering exceptional results with everything he’s undertaken. There’s no one more deserving. He’s the absolute best choice to lead our highly[1]talented team with our heritage brands.” Washington adds, “I’m excited to take on this new role with Alpha Media. We have great stations in the market and greater people inside the building. I’m looking forward to this next chapter.”
After 35 years of service and leadership in local broadcasting, Bob Longo is retiring as VP/GM of Cox Media Group (CMG) TV – Jacksonville (WJAX-TV and Hoffman Communication’s WFOX-TV), effective Dec. 31. Longo’s career has deep roots in journalism. He started in radio as a reporter, anchor, news director, and talk host before moving to TV as a reporter and anchor, executive producer, and news director. He led newsrooms in Binghamton, Buffalo, Hartford, Pittsburgh, Orlando, and Jacksonville. He joined CMG in 2014 and was promoted to VP/GM in 2017. “Bob has been successful at every stop because he’s a personable and engaged leader with an unwavering commitment to journalistic excellence and financial performance,” said Dan York, CMG’s president/CEO. “He’s consistently brought passion to serving his local communities and has been an ardent advocate for the value of local news and investigative journalism. While we’re happy for him, we’re going to miss Bob’s optimism and leadership.”
The 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 “
Midday show host Laurence Holmes (pictured left) will transition to afternoon drive and join co-host Matt Spiegel. “The Spiegel and Holmes Show” began being heard weekdays from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm CT yesterday (9/23). The station also installs local broadcast veteran Marshall Harris as midday show co-host. Harris succeeds Holmes and will be heard alongside Dan Bernstein on weekdays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm CT beginning September 30. “We’re thrilled to debut the future of afternoons on The Score by pairing Laurence Holmes with Matt Spiegel,” said Kevin Cassidy, SVP/market manager, Audacy Chicago. “Laurence’s deep knowledge of Chicago sports, coupled with Matt’s existing rapport with our afternoon listeners, promises to deliver compelling, insightful content that resonates with our audience. We’re equally thrilled to welcome Marshall Harris, a seasoned sports broadcaster with deep local ties, to our midday lineup.” Holmes joined The Score in 1998 and covered the Bears for 10 years. He has also been a sports anchor on NBC5 and NBC Sports Chicago. He succeeds Danny Parkins, who recently left the station. Harris joins 670 The Score after serving as sports director for CBS2 in Chicago. He has also served as a fill-in host for 670 The Score since 2022 and has been heard on sister station Sports Radio 94WIP in Philadelphia.