Industry News

Chris Moore to Retire from KDKA, Pittsburgh

KDKA Radio personality Chris Moore is retiring from the Audacy news/talk station after his last show on February 15. Moore delivered the news to his audience on his 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm Sunday program. Heimg said, “Having our meaningful discussions about world and local issues, as well as more mundane issues with you has been one of the highlights of my career.” In a piece posted to KDKA’s website, the station says Moore’s health and mobility issues, combined with the recent winter weather forced him to consider his future. “‘The Moore of Pittsburgh’ has been a local weekend staple since 1994 and Chris has provided countless hours of entertaining radio that made listeners smile, think and participate.” Moore is also the founder and co-chairperson of the educational committee of the Frank Bolden Urban Journalism Workshop of the Pittsburgh Black Media Federation where a Chris Moore Internship was named in his honor in 2024.

Industry News

Tanner Named to Lead New York Public Radio

New York Public Radio names Christy Tanner its next president andimg CEO. NYPR says Tanner is “known for more than two decades of transformative media industry leadership in executive roles at CBS –  where she oversaw the global expansion of CBSN, helping redefine live news for digital audiences – TV Guide, and The Washington Post Company. She serves as chair of Swerve Sports, a streaming TV company, and on the board of directors of Audacy, one of the nation’s largest audio companies.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (2/3)

The most discussed stories yesterday (2/3) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. Government Shutdown Ends
  2. ICE Operations / Protests
  3. Epstein Files
  4. U.S.-Iran Nuclear Talks
  5. Russia-Ukraine War / Peace Talks
Industry News

NRG to Sell Omaha Stations to Usher Media

NRG Media is getting out of the radio business in the Omaha market as it files to sell news/talk KOIL-AM, sports talk KOZN-AM, along with music formatted stations KQKQ-FM, KZOT-AM, and KOPW-FM to Usher Mediaimg LLC. Separately it is filing to sell KOOO-FM to Nebraska Public Media. This is NRG Media’s second deal with Usher Media. In November of last year, it agreed to sell its Tri-Cities, Nebraska station group to Usher for $3.75 million. Company officer Alan Usher comments, “This acquisition is a statement of belief in Omaha and in Nebraska. Local radio matters. Local leadership matters. We are committed to building a broadcast presence that reflects the strength of this community and delivers real value to the businesses and people who call it home.” Kalil & Co. was the exclusive broker for this deal.

Industry News

Bucky & BK Show to Air on Austin’s “1300 The Zone”

iHeartMedia brings Bucky Godbolt and Brad Kellner – “Bucky & BK” – to KVET-AM, Austin’s “1300 The Zone” to air in the 5:00 pm to 7:00 pmimg slot. The station notes that Godbolt is a former University of Texas running backs coach and the station is the radio flagship of Longhorns football. Station PD Bryan Erickson states, “‘Bucky & BK’ is already a proven, fan-favorite show and we’re thrilled to add it to The Zone’s afternoon lineup. Bucky & BK’s credibility, insight and strong UT sports connection further strengthens our unrivaled coverage of UT athletics.”

Industry News

Liebre to Receive BFoA’s Philip J. Lombardo Spirit Award

The Broadcasters Foundation of America announces that Ernest A. Liebre, SVP and institutional financial advisor at CAPTRUST, is namedimg the recipient of the Philip J. Lombardo Spirit Award. BFoA Chair Scott Herman says, “Ernest exemplifies the values at the heart of the Broadcasters Foundation — generosity, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. His dedication to our mission and his longstanding support of the broadcasting community make him an exceptionally deserving recipient of the Philip J. Lombardo Spirit Award.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (2/2)

The most discussed stories yesterday (2/2) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. Partial Government Shutdown
  2. ICE Operations / Protests
  3. Epstein Files / Clintons to Testify
  4. Trump Calls for “Nationalizing” Elections
  5. Savannah Guthrie’s Missing Mother
Industry News

Manhattan Borough President Attempting to Censor Newsmax

News outlet Newsmax is fighting an attempt by New York City Manhattan borough president Brad Hoylman-Sigal who is petitioning New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to remove Newsmax content from the city’s taxi TV screens. New York’s taxis are private entities that operate via a city license known as a medallion. Last year, Newsmax signed with Curb aimg deal to provide a one-minute news update hosted by one of the network’s anchors to over 15,000 taxis across the country, including in New York City. In a January 21 letter to Mamdani and Taxi and Limousine Commissioner Midori Valdivia, Hoylman-Sigal stated the cabs should not carry Newsmax because of its “politically charged content.” The letter went further, stating Newsmax “is not a credible news source for New Yorkers. I urge you to summarily suspend the NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission’s partnership with Curb… and demand that Curb cease its collaboration with Newsmax as a condition of licensure given the platform’s history of misinformation and disingenuous reporting.” Newsmax says, “This is a pure act of censorship targeting a news organization reaching over 50 million Americans regularly. Newsmax plays it straight and that drives the far left crazy.” See the Newsmax story here.

Industry News

KRMG, Tulsa Promotes Cooper to Morning Host and APD

Zoellner Media Group promotes Skyler Cooper to morning drive host and assistant program director. Cooper moves from host of the “KRMG Afternoon News.” KRMG says Cooper is a previous winner of theimg Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters Personality of the Year and has recently been recognized as a National Association of Broadcasters Marconi Award nominee for Medium Market Personality of the Year. He also played a key role in KRMG’s Marconi Award win for Medium Market Station of the Year. Zoellner Media Group owner Dr. Robert H. Zoellner says, “Skyler understands what local radio should be – trusted, engaged, and community focused. Promoting him into a morning and leadership role is an investment in KRMG’s future.” Cooper comments, “I couldn’t be more excited to hop in the driver’s seat of the KRMG Morning News and wake up with Tulsa each weekday morning, 5-9 am. I started my radio career here as a Sunday morning board op, and to be taking the reins of such a legacy morning broadcast is beyond what I could have ever imagined all those years ago.”

Industry News

Andrew Cuomo to Host Weekly Show on WABC, New York

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo was a guest on 77WABC Radio owner John Catsimatidis’ “Cats Roundtable” show last month and during that appearance Catsimatidis told Cuomo, “I hear you may beimg talking a little bit more on WABC radio in the near future.” That has become reality as Red Apple Media announces the launch of “The Pulse of the People,” starring Cuomo. The one-hour show premiered yesterday (2/1) at 5:00 pm. Catsimatidis states, “Today on WABC Radio we are introducing a new program, ‘The Pulse of the People,’ hosted by former Governor Andrew Cuomo. The show will focus on listener calls and open discussion about the issues, concerns, and views of New Yorkers. WABC Radio believes in bipartisan conversation and thoughtful discussion of solutions, and we invite listeners to tune in and be part of the discussion.” Cuomo comments, “This is a moment when our country has rarely felt more divided, politics more polarizing, and public discourse more toxic. ‘The Pulse of the People’ is about cutting through the noise and the rancor to have real, substantive, fact-based conversations about the issues that actually affect people’s lives. I’ve spent my career focused on making government work and getting results, and that’s the same straightforward, problem-solving approach I’ll bring to this program.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend (1/31-2/1)

The most discussed stories over the weekend (1/31-2/1) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERSresearch:

  1. Government Shutdown
  2. More Epstein Files Released
  3. ICE Operations / Protests
  4. Kennedy Center Shutdown-Renovations
  5. Grammys / Bad Bunny Wins AOTY
Industry News

WIND-AM, Chicago Announces “The Real Story” Midday Show

Salem Media’s Chicago news/talk station WIND “AM 560 The Answer” is expanding its Jeanne Ives-hosted weekend show, “The Real Story,” to a daily airing from 11:00 am to 12:00 noon with the addition of former WIND personality Amy Jacobson (left) joining as co-host. Regional VP andimg station general manager John Gallagher states. Bringing Amy Jacobson back to the station fills a huge void for our audience. She has been relentless in her quest for the truth, and she gets answers that our listeners need to hear. Jeanne Ives (right) is one of the most politically connected people in the state of Illinois. She brings a wealth of knowledge regarding so many issues that affect everyone within our listening area. I am looking forward to the in-depth conversation and new perspective this team will offer.” Ives says, “I am thankful and excited to be a part of the Salem family. Information is power and Amy and I want to bring the ‘Real Story’ on policy along with informed commentary from years of experience knowing the players and politicians to our listeners. We want listeners to be informed, so they can hold the politicians accountable.” Amy Jacobson adds, “I am thrilled to be returning home to ‘AM 560 The Answer.’ Jeanne and I will be part of the strongest conservative lineup in Chicago radio! As many of you know, life takes some unexpected turns, but when you love what you do, the signal always finds its way back.”

Industry News

“105.1 The Fan” to Serve as Portland Timbers Flagship

Audacy’s sports talk outlet KRSK-FM, Portland “105.1 The Fan” is now the flagship radio home for the Major League Soccer club the Portland Timbers. As part of the deal, Timbers matches will be broadcast across theimg FAN Sports Network. Audacy Portland SVP and market manager Ryan Cooley states, “We’re extremely excited to partner with the Portland Timbers as we continue delivering the best local sports content and growing the FAN Sports Network. Together, we’re committed to delivering high-quality coverage and meaningful access for fans, so The Fan becoming the radio home of the Portland Timbers was a natural fit. We look forward to working closely with the club to enhance the matchday and season-long experience.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (January 26-30, 2026)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (1/26-30) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

Stories

  1. Killings by ICE Agents / 2nd Amendment Uproar
  2. Dems Threaten DHS Funding
  3. Noem & Bovino Criticism
  4. Potential Government Shutdown
  5. Fed Keeps Rates Steady / Warsh Nominated for Fed Chair
  6. The Economy / Falling Dollar
  7. U.K. & Canada China Deals
  8. Trump Threatens Iran
  9. Winter Storm Aftermath
  10. Melania Movie / Belichick Snubbed by HOF

People

  1. Donald Trump
  2. Kristi Noem / Gregory Bovino
  3. Tom Homan
  4. Alex Pretti / Renee Good
  5. Chuck Schumer
  6. Jerome Powell / Kevin Warsh
  7. Keir Starmer / Mark Carney / Xi Jinping
  8. Masoud Pezeshkian
  9. Melania Trump
  10. Bill Belichick

To see the full TALKERS Stories, Topics, and People Charts, please click HERE.

Industry News

Audacy: Adding Audio to Marketing Plan Provides 11% Lift

In a post by Audacy’s Audio Insights, the company says that “when OTT runs alone, conversion rates hover around 38%. Add Audio to the mix, and conversion jumps to 42%. That’s an 11% lift, just by layering in Audio…img Streaming radio and podcasts don’t just add reach. They double down on impact by warming the audience before they ever click.” The company adds, “Audio brings something no other channel can touch. It’s literally in your audience’s ears. It’s personal. It’s focused. And it shows up during moments where screens aren’t competing for attention, like commuting, working, cooking, unwinding. That’s when messaging sticks. Audio builds familiarity and trust early in the journey, so when someone sees your display ad, social post, or paid search result later, they’re not meeting your brand for the first time. They already recognize you. And recognition drives response.”  See the complete post here.

Industry News

Townsquare Sets Q4 Operating Results Date

Townsquare Media says it will release fourth quarter 2025 financial results before the market opens on Monday, March 16, 2026. The company will host a conference call to discuss certain fourth quarter 2025 financial results that day at 8:00 am ET.

Industry News

WNYC/Gothamist Honored for Rikers Island Sexual Assault Story

Public media organization WNYC/Gothamist is being honored with an Alfred I. duPont-Columbia University Award for its investigation into allegations by 24 women of sexual assault by a single corrections officer on Rikers Island. The audio story – which aired on WNYC’s NYC Now local news podcast – revealed how an officer known as “Champagne” had been accused of abusing female inmates for years. Interim editor-in-chief Stephanie Clary says, “We are grateful for this recognition of the newsroom’s work. This investigation required months of difficult and deep reporting, and it led to meaningful change — underscoring the essential role of local journalism in holding people in power to account. We are especially thankful to the women who entrusted us with their stories. Their voices and interviews were critical to this reporting and ultimately helped make the city safer for others.”

Industry News

“America Tonight” Adds Affiliates

“America Tonight with Kate Delaney” adds new affiliate stations as Audacy’s news/talk WCCO-AM, Minneapolis is now airing the program from 12:00 midnight to 2:00 am as is Genesis Communications’ WHBO-AM, Tampa.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (1/28)

The most discussed stories yesterday (1/28) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. ICE Minnesota Operations / Agents on Leave / 2nd Amendment Uproar
  2. Dems Threaten DHS Funding / Criticism of Noem and Bovino
  3. Fed Keeps Rates Steady
  4. Potential Government Shutdown
  5. U.K.-China Deal
Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (1/27)

The most discussed stories yesterday (1/27) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. ICE Minnesota Operations / Noem Resignation Calls
  2. Second Amendment Uproar
  3. Dollar Sinks to Four-Year Low
  4. Omar Attack
  5. Extreme Winter Weather / Power Grid Concerns
Industry News

Audacy Announces Programming Changes for “ESPN 1320” in Sacramento

Audacy’s Sacramento sports talk outlet KIFM-AM “ESPN 1320” announces a new programming lineup that will take effect next Monday (2/2).  A new morning program called “The Jump” and starring Kyleimg Madson and Jesse Tapia airs live from 7:0 am to 9:00 am with a replay airing from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm the same day. The station notes that this is Tapia’s first on-air role and that he’ll continue producing the “D-Lo and KC” show. That program, starring Damien Barling & Kenny Caraway, is moving to the 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm daypart. The station adds that James Ham is expanding his role as the Sacramento Kings insider as he’ll provide breaking news updates and analysis weekly on “The Jump” and “D-Lo & KC.” Station brand manager Kyle Madson says, “Jesse brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm for sports, and we’re excited to evolve our lineup with the launch of ‘The Jump,’ bringing high-energy to Sacramento mornings. By moving the unmatched wit of D-Lo & KC to the full afternoon drive and having James as our Kings Insider across all shows, we’re doubling down on the local insight and personality that defines Northern California sports radio.”

Job Opportunity

WORT, Madison Seeks Development Director

Community radio WORT, Madison, Wisconsin is looking for an experienced fundraiser to play a key role in shaping the future of the station. You will be responsible for a $895,000 annual fundraising plan that highlights the station’s partnership with listeners and donors. Incumbent will direct on-air fundraising drives to engage with major donors, write monthly donor newsletters, and promote our many income streams. Salary range: $60,000 – $65,000. A detailed position description and complete benefits package are available here. (PDF) To apply, click HERE

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (1/26)

The most discussed stories yesterday (1/26) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. Minnesota ICE Operations-Protests
  2. Leadership Changes / Gun Rights Groups Criticize Trump Officials
  3. Winter Storm Aftermath
  4. U.S. Dollar Falling-Gold & Silver Spiking
  5. Canada-China Trade Deal
Industry News

“Seattle Red” Adds Scott Jennings to Lineup

Bonneville’s conservative talk KTTH, Seattle “Seattle Red” adds Salem Radio Network’s Scott Jennings to its lineup airing from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Station program director Jason Antebi says, “Scott Jenningsimg is a fearless communicator with unmatched credibility. His experience, intelligence, and no-nonsense delivery make him a strong addition to our primetime lineup. Scott doesn’t just react to the news — he shapes the conversation and arms listeners with insight they can use.” Jennings comments, “I’m thrilled to join the lineup at Seattle Red! My mission is to debunk liberal narratives, bring forward blockbuster news-making conversations, and give the audience a daily dose of common sense. Can’t wait to be part of this terrific station!”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend (1/24-25)

The most discussed stories over the weekend (1/24-25) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

  1. Fatal ICE Shooting in Minnesota / Homeland Security Funding
  2. Weekend Winter Storm
  3. China Accuses General of Giving Nuke Secrets to U.S.
  4. Canada-China Trade Deal
  5. Melania Movie / NFL Playoffs
Industry News

FCC’s Gomez Responds to Commission’s Equal Opportunity Memorandum

FCC Commissioner Anna M. Gomez responds to the Commission’s Guidance on Political Equal Opportunities Requirement for Broadcast Television Stations that it issued on January 21, taking an opposing view from FCC Chair Brendan Carr. She states: “Nothing hasimg fundamentally changed with respect to our political broadcasting rules. The FCC has not adopted any new regulation, interpretation, or Commission-level policy altering the long-standing news exemption or equal time framework. For decades, the Commission has recognized that bona fide news interviews, late-night programs, and daytime news shows are entitled to editorial discretion based on newsworthiness, not political favoritism. That principle has not been repealed, revised, or voted on by the Commission. This announcement therefore does not change the law, but it does represent an escalation in this FCC’s ongoing campaign to censor and control speech.

“The First Amendment does not yield to government intimidation. Broadcasters should not feel pressured to water down, sanitize, or avoid critical coverage out of fear of regulatory retaliation. Broadcast stations have a constitutional right to carry newsworthy content, even when that content is critical of those in power. That does not change today, it will not change tomorrow, and it will not change simply because of this Administration’s desire to silence its critics.”

Industry News

Good Karma Brands Ups Klimack to Director of Content

Good Karma Brands promotes Jordan Klimack to director of content atimg WKNR-AM “ESPN Cleveland.”  The station says in a social media post, “Since joining the station in 2018, he’s played a key role in shaping programming, managing content across platforms, and helping drive the station’s expanding digital strategy. We’re excited to see Jordan lead our programming and content vision now and into the future. Well deserved!”

Industry News

Edison Research Releases Top 50 Podcasts Report for Q4 of 2025

Edison Research is publishing its Top 50 Podcasts in the U.S. based on reach for Q4 2025 among weekly podcast consumers ages 13+. The listimg ranks podcasts based on total audience reach from Edison Podcast Metrics. At #1 is “The Joe Rogan Experience,” followed by “Crime Junkie” at #2 and “The Daily” at #3. Other news/talk media related shows of note include “The Megyn Kelly Show” at #13, “The Tucker Carlson Show” at #20, “The Charlie Kirk Show” at #47, and “The Ben Shapiro Show” at #48.  See the complete ranker here.

Industry News

RTDNA to Honor Steve Bertrand with Lifetime Achievement Award

Retired WGN, Chicago journalist Steve Bertrand is being honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award as part of the RTDNA Foundation’s 2026 First Amendment Awards taking place at the Watergate Hotel in Washington on March 12. RTDNA says it “is celebrating Steve Bertrandimg with the Lifetime Achievement Award, an honor designated contributions to local news. Bertrand has been a trusted voice on WGN Radio for four decades, anchoring news since 1992 and earning the confidence of generations of Chicago listeners. Over his career, he covered many of the most significant local and national events of the past 40 years while mentoring colleagues and helping define the standard for excellence in local radio journalism. His retirement in 2025 marks the culmination of a lifetime dedicated to informing the public and strengthening the role of local news.”

Industry News

TALKERS to Present IBS NYC 2026

TALKERS magazine is pleased to announce that it will again serve as the presenting sponsor of the forthcoming Intercollegiate Broadcasting System (IBS) conference.

IBS NYC 2026 – America’s preeminent annual college radio and mediaimg gathering – will take place February 19-21 at the Sheraton Times Square Hotel in midtown Manhattan.

In making the announcement, TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison stated, “Campus broadcasting continues to take on a growing importance as the radio industry (and its related fields) seeks to connect with and develop a new generation of professional practitioners as well as engaged audiences going further into the digital era. TALKERS is proud to be able to provide major financial support, encouragement, experience, and advice to the dedicated producers of this very special event for the second consecutive year. I highly recommend that radio and media professionals attend this dynamic gathering because the grass roots future of the field oozes out of its meeting rooms, exhibition areas, and hallways.  It is a great gathering at which to network with almost a thousand up and coming stars in both talent and management.”

For general information please click HERE.

The event is extremely affordable.  Attendees are encouraged to lock in the low rate of $139 (available until January 31) by clicking HERE.

A limited number of rooms at the Sheraton Times Square Hotel are available at only $199 per night.  For rooms, please click HERE 

The powerful agenda is coming together.  Check its development, thus far, by clicking HERE.

Continue to follow breaking news and details about IBS NYC 2026 during the days and weeks ahead here in TALKERS.  Register now to take advantage of remarkable discounts for those that sign up early.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (January 19-23, 2026)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (1/19-23) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

Stories

  1. Trump at Davos / Greenland Strategy
  2. ICE Raids-Protests / Administrative Warrants
  3. Affordability / Financial Markets Activity
  4. Board of Peace
  5. SCOTUS Hears Lisa Cook Case
  6. Clintons-Contempt of Congress Charges / Epstein Files
  7. Jack Smith Testimony
  8. Iran Protests-Deaths
  9. Halligan Exits Justice Department
  10. Indiana Wins Football Championship / NFL Playoffs

People

  1. Donald Trump
  2. Mark Rutte
  3. Mette Frederiksen / Lars Løkke Rasmussen
  4. Gavin Newsom
  5. Vladimir Putin
  6. Volodymyr Zelenskyy
  7. Lisa Cook
  8. Bill & Hillary Clinton
  9. Jack Smith
  10. Lindsey Halligan

To see the full TALKERS Stories, Topics, and People Charts, please click HERE.

Industry News

Audacy Sells RI Sports Signal to Pubcaster

Ocean State Media announces that it has acquired WVEI-FM, Westerly, Rhode Island from Audacy to replace its five-signal network that carries public radio content from NPR and others. WVEI has been theimg Providence market outlet for Audacy’s sports talk WEEI-FM, Boston for more than two decades. Audacy closed the WVEI offices in 2023. Ocean State Media president and CEO Pam Johnston says they are spending $4.9 million on the new FM. “From an operational and financial standpoint, we are going to be financing the cost of this frequency, which will allow us to eventually sell all the frequencies that we currently have. And so over time we believe that this transaction actually is going to pay for itself.” She says making it easier for listeners is important, “One signal reaching much farther than our current series of five different signals, a greater experience where you don’t have to change the channel as you move your way through Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts.”