Jim Bohannon Tribute Podcast Posted on TALKERS MEDIA YouTube Channel
November 12 marked the second anniversary of the passing of legendary Westwood One syndicated radio talk show host Jim Bohannon who, after waging a brave battle, succumbed to esophageal cancer in 2022. Bohannon’s stellar career in radio covered a span of almost 63 continuous years during which he was honored with just about every award the industry has to offer including induction in the Radio Hall of Fame, the NAB Broadcasting Hall of Fame, and the Missouri Broadcasters Hall of Fame. He is a recipient of the Radio Television Digital News Foundation’s Lifetime Achievement Award as well as the TALKERS Lifetime Achievement Award (which has subsequently been renamed in his honor). TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison conducted the final interview ever recorded with Jim Bohannon one month before the talk show giant’s passing. In it, the two friends and broadcasting industry colleagues engaged in a heartfelt, remarkably candid conversation about life and death, in addition to sharing observations about the changing state of radio. Reflecting on that interview, Harrison states, “For all his accomplishments on and off the air, what I remember most about Jim was the sheer bravery and good-natured wisdom that he publicly displayed during the final months, weeks, and days leading up to his death in 2022. We capture that intimacy and spirit in this interview.” Harrison adds, “Jim Bohannon’s life and work embodied the absolute best aspects of talk radio’s modern era.” In recognition of the second anniversary of Jim Bohannon’s passing, this new podcast episode honoring the great radio star consists largely of that final interview along with a general remembrance of his outstanding career and legacy. It has now been posted on the new TALKERS MEDIA YouTube channel. To listen to it, please click here.
The Salem Radio Network’s twin 24/7 news networks – SRN News and TOWNHALL News – announce extensive plans for upcoming coverage of Donald J. Trump’s Inauguration as the 47th President of the United States. SRN’s White House correspondent Greg Clugston will spearhead live broadcast coverage from the West Capitol beginning at 11:30 am ET on Monday, January 20th. He will be joined by U.S. Senate correspondent Bob Agnew and House correspondent Bernie Bennett covering events leading up to Vice President-elect JD Vance’s oath of office around 11:55 am, followed by Trump being administered the oath at 12:00 noon followed by his Inaugural Address. Live coverage will continue until the day’s ceremonies conclude. In addition to the Inauguration itself, throughout the days leading up to January 20th Salem newscasts will provide analysis and perspective from a variety of contributors including Alfredo Ortiz, CEO of Job Creators Network; SRN News military affairs analyst Col. Robert Maginnis; former U.S. Senator Rick Santorum; and TOWNHALL.com columnist Kurt Schlichter among many others. “Donald Trump’s election on November 5th represents the greatest political comeback in the history of the United States,” states Tom Tradup, SRN VP/news & talk programming, adding “Salem Radio Network’s live Inauguration Day coverage is part of SRN’s ongoing commitment to provide affiliates with Breaking News coverage 24/7.”
iHeartMedia, first starting in 1992 as chief engineer for the Cincinnati cluster. He was part of the team that created the first version of the iHeartRadio App and worked with Toyota and Ford on the first integration of iHeartRadio. More recently, Littlejohn helped spearhead a modernization of iHeart’s studio facilities and conversion to cloud-based audio systems. iHeartMedia Markets Group president Hartley Adkins says, “There are few people in the industry with the expertise and longevity that Jeff has and we’re grateful for the incredible work he’s done for iHeart. We’ve been fortunate to rely on him for over three decades and I’m so thankful we’ll keep drawing from Jeff in his new consultancy role.” 
ESPN Wisconsin programming, including weekly appearances on “The Great Dane Huddle” on ESPN Madison with former Badgers Derek Engler and Tarek Saleh. Good Karma Brands founder and CEO Craig Karmazin says, “Barry’s significance to the Wisconsin sports landscape and to Good Karma Brands can’t be overstated. I would not have visited Wisconsin as a college student and eventually started a company here had it not been for the way he and Pat Richter transformed the Wisconsin football program. To add a teammate with his leadership skills, experience, knowledge, and passion is a huge win for our fans, advertising partners, ESPN Madison, and all of GKB.”
(11/8) – Bertolucci as program director of heritage giant KFI AM 640, Los Angeles and Martin as EVP of programming, iHeartMedia Sports (which includes FOX Sports Radio) and PD of sports talk AM 570 KLAC, Los Angeles.After nearly a quarter century of exemplary service in these positions,
the ambiguous terms cited for the couple’s simultaneous departure do not mask the general industry observation that they were direct victims of the national radio cutbacks being affected by iHeartMedia as severe cost-cutting measures. Chris Berry, iHeartMedia EVP of news, will assume the role as interim program director of both KFI and KLAC.
Included in the cut – their show’s producer Terry Trahim, after more than 20 years of service to the station.
iHM SVP of programming for the Ohio-West Virginia area and PD /afternoon host of WSPD, Toledo has also been let go.
In San Antonio, although he remains one of the most successful syndicated hosts in American talk radio with a rapidly growing roster of more than 170 stations coast to coast, Compass Media Networks star Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo‘s local highly-rated afternoon show of 19 years at his flagship WOAI (where he is a market legend) has been dropped from the lineup as a cost-cutting measure. Pags is one of talk radio’s most notable rising stars and will undoubtedly be okay – but his departure from WOAI is indicative of the wrecking ball nature of these types of budget-cutting measures.
Do you wish you could get in just one more hour of focused work… but your brain won’t cooperate? You’re not alone.
DeLusant and Kurtz will report to Bernie Weiss, division president, iHeartMedia. DeLusant and Kurtz will be responsible for managing multiple platforms across New York and Chicago iHeartMedia brands. In these newly appointed positions, both region presidents will work closely with the sales, programming and digital teams for all station brands in the New York and Chicago markets and will also have direct oversight of the respective sales teams. “I’m thrilled to promote both Steve and Adam. It’s especially rewarding to find the best candidates for key leadership roles in your own buildings,” Weiss tells TALKERS. “They’re extremely knowledgeable about our ever-evolving business and have built some of the best media sales teams in the country. I’m confident that they will continue to elevate our New York and Chicago operations to even greater heights and continue to drive revenue.” Prior to his new role, Steve DeLusant has held the position of SVP of sales for iHeart New York since January 2020. 
Earlier in his career, DeLusant was senior account executive for Emmis Communications and a sales associate for WLTW. Adam Kurtz is a seasoned media veteran with 23 years of sales experience at iHeartMedia including 14 years in sales management. Kurtz began his media career at WLIT in Chicago where he was an account executive for nine years.
This presidential election cycle provided a number of insights, revelations, and takeaway lessons for news/talk radio. And by using the term “news/talk radio” I mean all spoken word platforms on the AM/FM dial including commercial, public, educational, and ethnic outlets that provide news, politics, and commentary. They are all RADIO.
Let’s continue our ongoing series of articles about fair use. A recent case highlights fair use considerations in audio media and podcasting, particularly concerning music and short audio clips used in intros, where some creators assume that brief snippets automatically qualify as “fair use.” Legal experts clarify that using a song clip, even if brief, doesn’t inherently meet fair use criteria. Courts have emphasized that fair use hinges not just on brevity but also on factors like purpose, nature, and market impact on the original work. Music clips, even short ones, are often seen as significant portions of the original content, carrying substantial value, making unauthorized use in podcasts or similar formats legally risky.
Journalism is alive and well within certain college radio circles. On Election Night (11/5), the WRFH/Radio Free Hillsdale 101.7 FM student broadcast team hosted live coverage from the Searle Center on Hillsdale College’s campus in Hillsdale, MI and invited students, faculty, and staff to attend and watch election results roll in and listen to analysis. Student anchors were joined by the presidents of Hillsdale College Republicans and Hillsdale College Democrats, three members of the Hillsdale faculty, a candidate for the Michigan State House, a candidate for the Michigan Supreme Court, and reporters from the Detroit News, the Daily Caller, the Center Square, and the Daily Signal. Back at the WRFH studios, the station’s news team worked to update listeners with results from state and local races all night long. More than 200 people came out to the broadcast in action. WRFH GM Scot Bertram tells TALKERS, “It was a home-run event! Students work hard to prep for this quite unpredictable night. There’s an enormous amount of planning and research involved to set everything up. Then the night unfolds, and they realize it’s a ton of fun, as well. I’ve heard from more than a few students who took part in our previous Election Night events that it’s one of their best experiences on campus and really drew them deeper into the journalism program here at Hillsdale.”
The Broadcasters Foundation of America has launched its annual Year-End Giving Campaign, which seeks to raise donations from tax-deductible personal contributions to the Guardian Fund and corporate contributions to the Angel Initiative. The Broadcasters Foundation, a 501c3 charity, is the only charity devoted exclusively to helping colleagues who are in dire need of monthly or emergency financial assistance due to life-altering illness or a disaster. “We are devoted exclusively to providing aid to colleagues in broadcasting who are suffering from extreme illness, or hardship from a devastating disaster,” stated Tim McCarthy, president of the Broadcasters Foundation. “We also take care of colleagues who have retired. Grants are supported solely by contributions from individuals and companies within our industry and offer a ‘hand-up’ to our colleagues during trying times. We’re asking everyone in broadcasting to please consider including the Broadcasters Foundation in your 2024 charitable giving.” Over the past 20 years, the Broadcasters Foundation has distributed over $15 million in aid to colleagues nationwide, across all states and territories, who need it most. “Requests for aid continue to grow exponentially as more of our peers and their families are affected by severe illness or disasters, such as the recent flurry of destructive hurricanes,” explained Scott Herman, chairman of the Broadcasters Foundation. “Whether it’s a monthly grant or one-time aid in response to an emergency, the Broadcasters Foundation is often a refuge and beacon of hope for colleagues whose lives have been upended by unforeseen and tragic circumstances. Please consider a donation. Donations go directly to helping our colleagues who are in desperate need.” For more information about the Broadcasters Foundation, including how to apply for aid or make a donation, visit 
more than 10,000 employees, a source with knowledge said, amounting to hundreds of job losses as the company streamlines its business and eliminates redundancies. The story also quotes iHeartMedia spokesperson Wendy Goldberg, saying the company has focused on expanding its Gen Z audience and that its broadcast radio audience has “more listeners than it did 10 years ago. Although in a company of 10,000 people very few jobs have been affected, there have been some and we never take this step lightly no matter how few jobs it entails; every team member is important to us and has our respect and appreciation.” 
“NAB congratulates President-Elect Trump and the new and returning members of Congress. Local television and radio stations are committed to working with the next administration on policies that will enable increased investment in local journalism, emergency information, sports and entertainment on which our communities rely. NAB will continue its bipartisan work with policymakers to strengthen this free, local service that is essential to our democracy.”
This drop is partly due to selling their Wilmington station and closing some digital businesses. Despite this, Beasley saw growth in digital and political advertising. They earned $1.2 million in operating income this quarter, a significant improvement from last year’s $85.5 million loss, which included large non-cash impairment costs. This quarter’s net loss was $3.6 million, much lower than last year’s $67.5 million loss, as Beasley reduced expenses and interest costs. Digital revenue continues to grow, now making up 19.4% of total revenue. Beasley’s CEO, Caroline Beasley, noted that digital transformation and political ads helped offset challenges in traditional radio advertising. She emphasized ongoing efforts to streamline operations, improve finances, and focus on their digital platforms. To see the full report please 
The Influencer Network leverages the growing impact of HRN’s syndicated personalities on their radio listeners and social media followers. “Radio personalities are the original influencers” says Clark Logan, President of HRN. “Fernando Fiore (a.k.a. Mr. Soccer), Ana Maria Canseco, Riva, (Los 40 USA) and DJ Xtreme are great talents. Their audiences on air and online identify with them while listening to their shows and reading the social posts in a lean-forward fashion. Brands can use association with these influencers to increase awareness and favorability of their brands with consumers.” For more information on the HRN Hispanic Radio Network, contact Clark Logan at 
KUT/KUTX, Austin GM Debbie Hiott has been elected to the NPR Board of Directors by NPR member station peers from across the country. Her term began yesterday (11/4) and runs through 2027. “It felt important to have a seat at the table at a critical time for NPR as it determines how to address challenging audience and underwriting trends, and how it will handle relationships with member stations,” said Hiott. 
“NPR’s health is our health, and vice versa. It’s important that the member stations and NPR work together on solutions to our audience and revenue challenges. I’m hoping I can help contribute to those solutions.”
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.”
In response to the recent lawsuit filed against CBS News, the following statement was released by NAB president and CEO Curtis LeGeyt: “A free press must report, inform and scrutinize without fear of reprisal. Frivolous lawsuits aimed at stifling this essential role risk undermining democratic principles and ignore the First Amendment’s protection of how news is reported. NAB stands firmly with our members against any attacks on their First Amendment-protected reporting.”
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Take advantage of the new media order. Initially, TiVo was a hit because you could pause live TV and go to the bathroom whenever you wanted. Bathroom breaks while watching live TV was a revelation. As you were going to the bathroom, your relationship with media was being re-wired in your brain. In a matter of months, you were able to watch what you wanted, whenever you wanted. DECADES of TV scheduling strategies became anachronistic. It’s November. Do you know when your favorite shows are airing on TV? No! No need you’ll watch them whenever you want!
WURD Radio Endorses Kamala Harris for President. For the first time in its 20+ year history, Philadelphia’s only Black-owned radio station, WURD Radio has endorsed a political candidate — Kamala Harris for President of the United States. Prompted in part by the decision from owners of the Los Angeles Times and The Washington Post to overrule planned endorsements by their editorial boards, sources at the station tell TALKERS, this decision underscores the importance of independent media ownership. From the endorsement: “Our founder, Walter P. Lomax Jr., M.D., understood that the media has the power to shape perceptions, images, narratives and, most importantly in this election, to tell the truth. He understood that the media can demonize or humanize, destroy or exalt, diminish or elevate. Dr. Lomax knew that mainstream media often marginalizes, caricatures and maligns Black people. WURD is in a unique position to speak honestly and emphatically about what matters most to our community because we are independently owned.” To read the entire text of the endorsement, please 
SiriusXM Tips Off College Basketball Coverage with 74 Games on Opening Night, November 4. SiriusXM will deliver college basketball fans an extensive schedule of live games throughout the 2023-24 college basketball season, starting with a slate of 74 women’s and men’s matchups to choose from when the season tips off this Monday (11/4). The men’s schedule includes all 19 teams from the Associated Press Top 25 that are in action on Monday night, including the season’s first matchup of Top 25 ranked teams – #8 Baylor @ #6 Gonzaga (11:30 pm ET). The opening day schedule of women’s games on SiriusXM includes 12 teams from the Associated Press Top 25 and features a couple of Top 25 matchups – #20 Ole Miss @ #3 USC (noon ET) and #5 UCLA @ #17 Louisville (2:30 pm ET). Throughout the season SiriusXM listeners will get access to dozens of game broadcasts each week involving teams from the SEC, Big Ten, Big 12, ACC, Pac-12, Big East and more.
Newsmax Launches in France on Molotov. Newsmax TV, one of America’s most popular news channels, just launched on Molotov, one of France’s leading TV platforms, as U.S. voters go to the polls to pick their next president. The Newsmax channel went live on Molotov’s platform on October 24, 2024, expanding its global footprint with 19 million Molotov users in France and French-speaking territories. Molotov is one of France’s main TV services offering streaming television to internet users across the nation and its territories. Molotov subscribers can tune to Newsmax via the platform’s free tier.
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.”