Industry News

WVMT, Burlington Host Kurt Wright to Retire

Kurt Wright, who served in numerous political roles in Vermont including as a state representative and as a Burlington city council member, tells his listeners that he will retire from his role at the Voximg AM FM Digital-owned news/talk WVMT, Burlington on May 30. Wright told his audience, “I’ve made the decision to move on… I’m going to miss it. But I’ve never been a morning person and getting up at 4:00 am is a bear for me… once I get here the adrenaline gets me going but my wife and I want to travel. We haven’t seen nearly enough of this country. When you have a health event like I had a couple months ago, it puts things into focus for you.” Wright says it will have been six-and-a-half years that he’s been hosting the program on WVMT.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (April 28 – May 2, 2025)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (4/28-5/2) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

Stories

1. Trump’s First 100 Days / Polling Numbers
2. Tariffs / U.S.-China Trade War / The Economy
3. U.S.-Ukraine Minerals Deal
4. Russia-Ukraine War
5. DOGE / Musk and Tesla
6. Canadian Elections
7. Deportations / Abrego Garcia Case
8. Trump vs Harvard
9. Kamala Harris Speaks Out
10.Belichick-Girlfriend Flap

People

1. Donald Trump
2. Xi Jinping
3. Volodymyr Zelensky
4. Vladimir Putin
5. Elon Musk
6. J.D. Vance
7. Mark Carney
8. Kilmar Abrego Garcia
9. Joe Biden / Kamala Harris
10.Bill Belichick / Jordon Hudson

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

Industry News

WBT, Charlotte to Launch the “TJ Ritchie Show”

Radio One’s news/talk WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte announces the debut of “The TJ Ritchie Show” that will air from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm weeknights beginning May 27.  Ritchie is one half of the longtime syndicated radio show “Ace & TJ” (with the late David “Ace” Cannon) now titled “TJ & Riggins” andimg co-hosted by Bryan “Riggins” Weber. Ritchie says, “This is something I’ve always wanted to do, and getting to do it on the legendary WBT is such a thrill. The timing is perfect because there are so many people who are just starting to become interested in the political landscape of our culture. Being ‘America’s Coolest Conservative,’ I’ll be able to engage them with a high energy, fun, and humorous show. It’s going to be spectacular. All of that AND I get to keep my day job!” WBT program director Mike Schaefer adds, “WBT’s history of night-time programming boasts some of radio’s biggest names – Bob Lacey, ‘Hello’ Henry Boggan, and ‘Charlotte’s Most Beloved,’ John Hancock. When the opportunity to add TJ to that list presented itself, there was nothing to think about besides a start date. We are beyond excited for TJ to bring entertaining late, live, and local programming back to Charlotte on WBT!”

Industry News

FNC’s Doocy Takes New Coast-to-Coast Co-Host Role

FOX News Channel’s “FOX & Friends” founding co-host Steve Doocy is taking on a new coast-to-coast co-hosting role for the show in which he’ll relocate to Florida and broadcast from cities andimg towns across the country, “bringing viewers unparalleled access and insight to the people, places and issues that make up America.” FOX News Media EVP of morning programming & program development Megan Albano says, “For nearly 30 years, Steve has been a force on the curvy couch with his signature smile and wit. His relationship with our audience is unmatched and we are looking forward to him taking his trademark style from the couch to cities across America’s heartland where he will co-host from diners to pickleball courts and more and finally not have to drive across the George Washington Bridge at 3:30 am every morning.”

Industry News

Leon Williamson to Lead Memphis/Tupelo for iHeartMedia

iHeartMedia names Leon Williamson market president for the Memphis/Tupelo area. Williamson most recently served as market president and SVP of sales for the company’s Indianapolis operations. iHeartMedia Kentucky/Memphis area president Kristy Beebe. She says, “Leon brings a wealth ofimg experience and a proven track record of success in our industry. His leadership and vision will be instrumental in driving our continued growth and success in the Memphis and Tupelo markets. Leon is not only a seasoned professional but also a dedicated supporter of the community actively involved in various initiatives, demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact. This passion for service and his strategic approach to market challenges make him the perfect fit for this role. I am confident that under Leon’s leadership, we will achieve new heights and continue to deliver outstanding results for our clients and partners.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (4/30)

The most discussed stories yesterday (4/30) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Trump’s First 100 Days
2. Tariffs / U.S.-China Trade War / The Economy
3. U.S.-Ukraine Minerals Deal
4. DOGE
5. Russia-Ukraine War

Industry News

FCC’s Simington Argues for American Reindustrialization

In an op-ed piece published in The Daily Caller, FCC Commissioner Nathan A. Simington – with newly appointed chief of staff Gavin M. Wax – makes the case for American reindustrialization to effectively compete with China. He says, “Today, a growing fraction of China’s manufacturing strengthimg lies in its ability to deploy high-end, labor-light, automation-heavy processes at scale. It’s a productivity story now, driven by robotics, industrial AI, and, most crucially, advanced 5G infrastructure deployed as an industrial platform — not just as a consumer gimmick.” He adds, “Compare this with our own policy environment, where even the best private sector players are hamstrung by outdated regulations, capricious permitting processes, and the dogma that government shouldn’t pick winners — especially in telecom or manufacturing. That ideology might have made sense in the 1990s, but it’s lethal to the future of our telecommunications industry now, and in consequence, our manufacturing future.” See the entire op-ed here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (4/29)

The most discussed stories yesterday (4/29) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Trump’s First 100 Days
2. Tariffs / U.S.-China Trade War / The Economy
3. Deportations / Abrego Garcia Case
4. Trump vs Harvard
5. Canadian Elections

Industry News

Key Networks to Syndicated Audio from NewsNation’s “CUOMO Town Hall”

Key Networks is partnering with cable news network NewsNation to syndicate a radio simulcast of NewsNation’s primetime two-hour special, “CUOMO Town Hall: The First 100 Days,” that will air liveimg on Wednesday (4/30) from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm ET. The special is being moderated by anchor Chris Cuomo, along with Bill O’Reilly and Stephen A. Smith, plus a live phone interview with the president. The program originates from New York and will showcase Trump administration officials including Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., alongside leaders of the Democratic Party. The town hall will be held in front of a live studio audience comprised of Democrats, Republicans, and independent voters.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend (4/26-27)

The most discussed stories over the weekend on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Trump Approval Ratings
2. Tariffs / U.S.-China Trade War
3. Colorado Underground Nightclub Raid
4. Deportations-Detentions
5. Pope Francis Funeral

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (April 21 – April 25, 2025)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (4/21-25) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

                          Stories

1. Tariffs / U.S.-China Trade War
2. Financial Markets / Fed Chair Powell’s Status
3. Russia-Ukraine War / Israel-Gaza War
4. Abrego Garcia Deportation Case
5. Pope Francis Dies
6. Google Anti-Trust Ruling/Meta Anti-Trust Case
7. Hegseth Signal Chat Controversy
8. Iran Nuclear Talks
9. State Dept. Reorganization
10.“60 Minutes” Producer Quits

              People

1. Donald Trump
2. Xi Jinping
3. Jerome Powell
4. Volodymyr Zelensky
5. Kilmar Abrego Garcia
6. Pope Francis
7. J.D. Vance
8. Elon Musk
9. Pete Hegseth
10.Bill Owens

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

Industry News

Cumulus Media Moving Stock from NASDAQ to OTC

A statement from Cumulus Media indicates that the company is moving its stock from trading on the NASDAQ to trading on the OTC (over-the-counter) market. Cumulus was set to be delisted fromimg NASDAQ after failing to bring its stock price above $1 for the required period of time. The statement says the company will do this “rather than investing time, effort, and cost into developing a plan to remain on NASDAQ.” The change takes effect on May 2 and solely impacts the trading venue. “The CMLS ticker remains the same and it does not affect the company’s operations. Cumulus remains focused on executing its strategy and driving long-term growth.”

Industry News

FCC Commissioner Gomez Begins First Amendment Tour

FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez announces she’s partnering with consumer and civil society organizations for speaking engagements and listening sessions focused on protecting the rights andimg freedoms enshrined in the First Amendment and fighting back against what she calls the Trump administration’s ongoing campaign of censorship and control. Gomez says, “Since the founding of our country, the First Amendment has protected our fundamental right to speak freely and hold power to account. Today, the greatest threat to that freedom is coming from our own government. Silencing dissenting voices is not a show of strength – it’s a sign of fear. We must continue to speak out against this growing campaign of censorship and control before this dangerous new normal becomes the status quo.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (4/23)

The most discussed stories yesterday (4/23) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Tariffs / U.S.-China Trade War
2. Russia-Ukraine War
3. Francis Funeral-New Pope Selection
4. “60 Minutes” Controversies
5. Trump’s Anti-DEI Actions

Industry News

Ted Cruz Podcast Being Made Available to Radio Stations

Premiere Networks is making the podcast, “Verdict with Ted Cruz,” available to news/talk stations as a one-hour weekend show. The show is co-hosted by Texas Senator Ted Cruz and radio personality Ben Ferguson.img Premiere Networks president Julie Talbott says, “Senator Cruz is a political insider whose views and opinions are valued by audiences. We’re always looking for engaging and entertaining programming that resonates with listeners, and the continued success of ‘Verdict’ made the decision to expand the program to radio a no-brainer. By harnessing the immense power of broadcast radio, we’re confident Verdict with Ted Cruz will reach millions more listeners across America every week.”

Industry News

John Sterling to Host Weekly Show on WABC, New York

Longtime New York Yankees play-by-play announcer John Sterling is going back on the radio to host a Saturday afternoon radio show on Red Apple Media’s WABC, New York. Sterling tells NorthJersey.com that he’simg hosting a one-hour show airing Saturdays from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Sterling spent 35 years as the voice of the Yankees prior to retiring last spring. Sterling says he is no stranger to sports talk radio having hosted a show on WMCA, New York during the 1970s. See the NorthJersey.com story here.

Industry News

Changes Coming to “97.1 The Fan” in Columbus

The Columbus Dispatch reports that Tegna’s sports talk WBNS-FM, Columbus “97.1 The Fan” will be seeing some programming changes soon. The longtime afternoon drive show “Common Man & T-Bone,” starring Mikeimg Ricordati and Jonathan Smith, will be split up with Smith moving to mornings alongside Tyvis Powell. The current morning show, “Morning Juice,” hosted by Brandon Beam and Bobby Carpenter is going away with Beam moving to the evening “Buckeye Show” and Carpenter going to the digital side for a 6:00 am to 8:00 am streaming show. See the Dispatch story here.

Industry News

PodcastOne Partners with Flightpath for Predictive Analytics

PodcastOne partners with Flightpath to use its predictive analytics platform. PodcastOne says the move will provide its sales and operations teams with the tools to optimize yield, unlock revenue potential, execute faster,img and make more strategic decisions. PodcastOne director of podcast business Michal Ksepko says, “Flightpath gives us the clarity and efficiency we need as our business scales. From forecasting to cross-platform analysis, their tools are helping us operate smarter and drive stronger results for both our creators and brand partners.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (4/22)

The most discussed stories yesterday (4/22) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Trump’s Trade War/Powell Status
2. Pope Francis Death
3. Hegseth Criticism
4. State Dept. Reorganization
5. “60 Minutes” Boss Quits

Industry News

Nationally Syndicated Host Joe Pags to Host Podcast for Salem Media

Salem Media Group brings talk media personality Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo aboard to host a new podcast titled, “Unshaken and Unafraid,” across its platforms. Pagliarulo’s daily, three-hour talk radio show is syndicatedimg nationally with affiliate relations and sales handled by Compass Media Networks. Pags says, “This is more than a podcast. It’s a platform for real talk in a world drowning in propaganda. They’ve tried everything to shut me up, but I’m getting louder. Salem understands our fight, and I’m honored to team up with them.” Salem chief strategy officer Brad Parscale says, “We’re thrilled to welcome Joe Pags to the Salem Podcast Network. He brings massive credibility, a loyal national audience, and the courage that’s desperately needed right now. This show is going to shake things up.”

Industry News

Former WRVA, Richmond Host’s Path to Virginia Lt. Governor Nominee Solidifies

Back in January, John Reid left his post as host of the morning program on Audacy’s news/talk WRVA,img Richmond to run for lieutenant governor in Virginia. Now, his opponent for the Repubican nomination – Pat Herrity – has exited the race due to health issues. Reid is an unusual candidate in that he’s openly gay but a conservative Republican who says he’s “against boys in girls’ sports and the extreme trans-agenda being forced upon our children.” Prior to his work at WRVA, Reid once served as communications chief for then-Virginia Governor George Allen. WRVA named Rich Herrera host of the morning show last month.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (4/21)

The most discussed stories yesterday (4/21) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Pope Francis Dies
2. Tariffs/U.S.-China Trade War
3. Trump vs Fed / The Economy
4. Pete Hegseth Signal Controversies
5. Google Anti-Trust Ruling

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend (4/19-20)

The most discussed stories over the weekend on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Abrego Garcia Deportation Case
2. Google Anti-Trust Ruling
3. Hegseth Signal Chat Controversy
4. Tariffs / U.S.-China Trade War
5. Financial Markets Activity

Industry News

Report: Mark Levin Among Those Named to Homeland Security Advisory Council

The New York Post is reporting that President Trump has appointed Cumulus Media | Westwood One nationally syndicated talk radio and FOX News personality Mark Levin to the “revamped” Homeland Security Advisory Council. The former members of the council were dismissed shortly after Trump wasimg sworn in. According to the report, Levin will join ex-NYPD detective and former “Don Imus” show contributor Bo Dietl, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, and Florida State Senator Joseph Gruters. President Trump posted to Truth Social: “Under Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem’s leadership, HSAC will work hard on developing new Policies and Strategies that will help us secure our Border, deport Illegal Criminal Thugs, stop the flow of Fentanyl and other illegal drugs that are killing our Citizens, and MAKE AMERICA SAFE AGAIN.” See the Post story here.

Industry News

IAB Report Dives into 2024 Digital Advertising Data

IAB just released its Internet Advertising Revenue Report for 2024 and the results of the study indicate the digital advertising industry saw ad revenue climb to $259 billion, a 15% year-over-year increase from 2023. IAB says, “This record growth reflects the industry’s ability to adapt to evolving technologies, regulatory changes, and shifting consumer behaviors. In parallel, the streaming landscape continues to shift, with ad-supported streaming becoming dominant and live sports driving premium ad investments.” Other takeaways from the study including that Digital Video is the fastest-growing format, with revenueimg increasing 19.2% YoY to $62.1 billion, now accounting for 24% of total ad revenue, and that Podcast advertising revenues show a strong YoY growth of 26.4%, a significant acceleration from 5.5% last year. IAB adds, “This growth was fueled by shifting consumer media habits, with cord-cutting driving greater engagement with on-demand audio, and podcasts emerging as a key platform for political advertisers seeking to connect with voters ahead of the election.” Overall, digital audio – including podcasting – has continued to grow, earning $7.6 billion in revenue with an 8.5% YoY growth from FY23 which is a slowdown in growth compared to last year’s 18.9% rate. Podcasting however saw a surge in growth at 26.4%, while other related formats such as Streaming Music and Radio stifled overall Audio growth. IAB concludes, “As audio consumption trends rise our data suggests that there will be continued digital audio advertising expansion and growth in the year ahead as brands and platforms invest more in podcasts, streaming music, and voice-based advertising.” See more about the study here.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (April 14 – April 18, 2025)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (4/14-18) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

Stories

1. Abrego Garcia Deportation Case/Judge Threatens Contempt Charges
2. Trump vs Harvard
3. Tariffs / U.S.-China Trade War / Powell Speech
4. Meta Anti-Trust Case
5. FCC’s Carr Threatens Comcast / Trump’s 60 Minutes Criticism
6. DOGE
7. U.S. – Iran Nuclear Talks
8. Russia – Ukraine War / Israel-Gaza War
9. Bernie Sanders-AOC Rallies
10.RFK Jr Promises Autism Cause

People

1. Donald Trump
2. Kilmar Abrego Garcia/Nayib Bukele
3. Alan Garber
4. Pam Bondi
5. Jerome Powell / Xi Jinping
6. Mark Zuckerberg / Elon Musk
7. Brendan Carr
8. Vladimir Putin / Volodymyr Zelensky
9. Bernie Sanders / AOC
10.RFK Jr

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

Industry News

“Rich on Tech” Show Added to WOR, New York Lineup

img

Nationally syndicated technology expert Rich DeMuro is going to be heard on iHeartMedia’s news/talk WOR, New York. His weekly program, “Rich on Tech,” will air Sunday nights from 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm, and he’ll join WOR morning personality Larry Mendte for a weekly segment every Thursday. WOR program director Tom Cuddy says, “We are excited to welcome ‘Rich on Tech’ to the new WOR Sunday lineup. Rich’s expertise and passion for technology make him a perfect fit for our audience, and we look forward to providing our listeners with Rich’s valuable and entertaining content, including hidden features of your iPhone, Androids, how AI can help around your home, the best new smart TVs, cybersecurity tips and much more.” In addition to his Premiere Networks radio show, DeMuro is a tech reporter for KTLA-TV, Los Angeles. Pictured above are Larry Mendte (left) and Rich DeMuro (right). 

Industry News

Top Four Unchanged in Triton Digital’s March U.S. Podcast Ranker

Triton Digital releases its U.S. Podcast Ranker for March based on weekly average downloads for participating networks and the top four shows keep their places on the ranker: 1) NPR’s “NPR News Now,”img 2) NPR’s “Up First,” 3) Cumulus Podcast Network’s “VINCE,” and 4) iHeart Audience Network’s “Stuff You Should Know.” Moves of note from March include Salem Podcast Network’s “The Charlie Kirk Show” rising three spots to #6, Cumulus Podcast Network’s “The Shawn Ryan Show” falling four places to #9, and iHeart Audience Network’s “The Sean Hannity Show” soaring 24 places to #14. See the complete ranker here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (4/16)

The most discussed stories yesterday (4/16) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Trump vs Harvard
2. Abrego Garcia Deportation Case/Judge Threaten Contempt Charges
3. Trump Tariffs/Jerome Powell Speech
4. FCC Chair Attacks Comcast Over News Coverage
5. RFK Jr. Promises Autism Cause

Industry News

KILT-AM, Houston’s Clint Stoerner in Arkansas Sports HoF

Houston sports talk personality and former University of Arkansas star quarterback Clint Stoerner was inducted into Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame on April 11 during their 67th annual induction banquet at theimg Oaklawn Event Center in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Stoerner co-hosts “The Drive with Clint Stoerner and Ron Hughley” in afternoon drive at Audacy’s sports talk KILT-AM, Houston “SportsRadio 610.” Audacy Houston SVP and market manager Sarah Frazier comments, “We are so proud of Clint and his accomplishments both on and off the field. Not only is he a premier sports radio host who was a finalist the same night for Media Alliance of Houston as Sports Specialist, but he is a great teammate to all of us in the building.” Stoerner began as a fill-in host on “SportsRadio 610” in 2018 and joined as a full-time host in 2019.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (4/15)

The most discussed stories yesterday (4/15) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Abrego Garcia Deportation Case
2. Harvard Refuses Trump Demands
3. Trump Tariffs/Financial Markets Activity
4. FTC’s Anti-Trust Case Against Meta
5. Joe Biden’s Public Comments on Trump

Industry News

Pat Boyle to Host Overnight Show on Infinity Sports Network

Audacy adds “The Pat Boyle Show” to its Infinity Sports Network, airing in the 2:00 am to 6:00 am ET daypart. Ryan Hurley, brand manager for Infinity Sports Network and WFAN, says, “We are happy to haveimg Pat continue to bring his passion to Infinity Sports Network, this time on a nightly basis. He puts everything he has into entertaining his audience, keeping them informed and involving them in his show for a great listening experience.” Since 2019, Boyle has held multiple positions at WFAN and Infinity Sports Network, serving as a host, anchor, and producer. He currently co-hosts, “Sunday’s Bets” on Audacy’s BetMGM Network and anchored the eight-hour NFL show “Gridiron Gameday with Pat Boyle.”