Job Opportunity

Saga Looking to Fill Weather Director/News Reporter Role

Saga Communications’ Spencer Radio Group is looking to hire a full-time weather director and news reporter for KICD-AM; BIG Country 107.7; MORE 104.9 and PURE Oldies 98.3/98.5 in Spencer, Iowa.im They seek someone who understands small-market, local radio and is willing to be involved in the community. Knowledge of radio automation software, Adobe audition, WordPress, and general computer experience is preferred. SRG offers paid vacation and great benefits including – health, vision, dental and 401K. Send your resume and demo! No phone calls. No voicetrack inquiries. Saga Communications of Iowa, LLC is an EOE. Kevin Tlam, Operations Manager, Spencer Radio Group, P.O. Box 260, Spencer, Iowa 51301 ktlam@spencerradiogroup.com

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend

The pro-Palestinian student protests and the Israel-Hamas war; Xi Jinping’s European tour; the presidential race; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; House Speaker Mike Johnson faces new ouster vote; the Russia-Ukraine war; Kim Godwin steps down from ABC News president post; and the Texas floods were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.

Industry News

Howie Carr to Receive 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award

The TALKERS editorial board has announced the selection of legendary New England radio talk show host Howie Carr as the 2024 recipient of the Jim Bohannon Memorial Award for Lifetime Achievement. Carr will be presented the honor at the forthcoming TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond conference on Friday, June 7 at Hofstra University on Long Island, NY. Carr has been a Boston-based radio talk show host since the 1980s, heard primarily on WRKO. WRKO is now one of more than 20 stations across theim region that carry Carr’s independently syndicated afternoon drive talk show. He is an inductee in the Radio Hall of Fame. With roots in investigative print journalism, Carr is the New York Times best-selling author of The Brothers Bulger and Hitman, in addition to several other Boston organized-crime books and two novels. He has remained in newspaper work that goes back prior to his radio career as an active columnist for the Boston Herald and has received a National Magazine Award for his work with Boston Magazine. Boston organized-crime boss Whitey Bulger was so infuriated by Carr’s groundbreaking reporting that he once put out a murder contract on Carr – a story detailed on “60 Minutes.” At his 2013 trial on murder and racketeering charges, Bulger tried to have Carr banned from the courtroom by calling him as a defense witness. Before he was brutally murdered in a gangland hit, the crime czar still said his greatest regret was not murdering Carr when he had the chance. Carr once taught a course at Harvard, where he had to cross a picket line against himself to get to his class. In making the announcement, TALKERS founder Michael Harrison stated, “Howie Carr is the real deal – the best of both the old and new schools in media. He was practicing ‘cross-platform’ journalism and commentary long before it became the digital-era norm. He’s got ink in his veins and RF in his brains. His impact in the Northeast has been so strong for such a long time that if the six New England States were to consolidate as one, he would possibly be its first governor.” Carr will be one of 60 industry leaders speaking at TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond. For more information, see story below.

Industry News

Beasley Appoints Kyra Ringer Chief Engineer for Boston Operations

Beasley Media Group names Kyra Ringer chief engineer for its Boston-based radio properties. Ringer was recently working as an independent contract engineer in New England. She previously served asim the chief engineer for Cumulus Media in Fort Walton Beach and Pensacola, Florida. Beasley says Ringer will be responsible for transmitter and studio maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs of the market’s RF systems, maintaining and utilizing Wheatstone and WheatNet for audio routing and broadcasting, and other related duties. Ringer comments, “Having been raised in studios and transmitter sites, I feel that broadcast engineering is in my DNA. My father has been a broadcast engineer for more than 40 years and has taught me most of what I know. I credit him with instilling an unwavering work ethic in me as I watched him work tirelessly through my childhood years. I have been working in radio for more than 25 years and love every aspect of what I do.”

Industry News

Benztown Promotes McDaniels and Castellani

Benztown promotes two audio production pros within its Commercial Production Team serving Benztownim client, Yamanair Creative. James McDaniels moves up from his role as producer to production manager for the Yamanair Commercial Production Team. He will be responsible for assigning, producing, and coordinating spots for clients. Kyle imCastellani is promoted from writer to head writer for the Yamanair Commercial Production Team. In his new role, Castellani will oversee copywriting and project management for the team. East Coast director of commercial production MJ Bloch says, “We are thrilled to have Kyle Castellani as Lead Writer. His creativity is unmatched, and we’re excited to see what the future brings. James McDaniels has been an amazing producer and voiceover artist for many decades. We are so delighted to have him on the Benztown team in this role. His talent and dedication to his craft are top notch.”

Industry News

Good Karma Stations to Air Wisconsin Volleyball

Good Karma Brands announces that WTLX-FM “100.5 ESPN Madison” and news/talk WTMJ-AM, Milwaukee will serve as the new home for University of Wisconsin women’s volleyball, beginning with the 2024-2025 season. UW Women’s Volleyball completed the 2023 season at # 3 in the AVCA Poll after aim trip to the semifinals in the NCAA Tournament. GKB founder and CEO Craig Karmazin comments, “We are proud to introduce broader coverage of Badgers Volleyball and to create additional avenues for audience expansion. It is an exciting time, and our partnership with UW Athletics will present opportunities for a team that is proven to be best in class both on and off the court.” GKB market manager Greg Scalzo adds, “We are excited to build off of the already established UW Women’s Volleyball brand and enthusiasm surrounding women’s sports to deliver the ultimate listening experience for fans.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories for Week of April 29 – May 3

The pro-Palestinian protests at U.S. college campuses were the most-talked-about story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the Israel-Hamas War and the attempts to broker a cease-fire, followed by the anti-Semitism bill being debated in the U.S. House at #3. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed in news/talk media during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Industry News

KLIF-AM, Dallas Adds Brian Kilmeade to Daily Lineup

Cumulus Media adds FOX News Channel and FOX News Audio star Brian Kilmeade to its KLIF-AM/KSCS-HD2, Dallas-Fort Worth program schedule airing his daily show in the 9:00 am to 12:00 noonim daypart, starting Monday (5/6). KLIF program director Bruce Collins says, “We are extremely excited to add Brian Kilmeade to the 570 KLIF-AM/96.3 FM-HD2 weekday radio lineup, especially as we head into the election season. Brian will be talking each day to the movers and shakers in the political world, keeping DFW up to date. Together with Sean Hannity weekday afternoons from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, we have the national political scene more than covered.” Kilmeade comments, “I am thrilled to be joining a great station with a rich history like KLIF and enter the fourth biggest market in the country. I’m honored to be a part of this first-class lineup right in the middle of this historic election season, and in short order will be in Dallas to meet all the listeners in person!”

Industry News

House Committee to Investigate Allegations of NPR Bias

Next Wednesday (5/8), the House Energy and Commerce Committee will hold an oversight hearing titled, “Examining Accusations of Ideological Bias at NPR, a Taxpayer Funded News Entity.” Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations Chair Morgan Griffithim (R-VA) will lead the investigation. They say, “NPR is entrusted with Americans’ hard-earned tax dollars. Serious allegations from a then-senior editor who spent decades at NPR reveal NPR engages in viewpoint discrimination and ideological bias that caters to a narrow, leftwing audience. From dismissing all debate over the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic to statistics about NPR’s editorial staff significantly skewing to the Democratic party, these allegations are deeply troubling and merit congressional investigation. This hearing will provide Members an opportunity to question NPR’s leadership directly about concerns we’re hearing from our constituents across the nation.” NPR president and CEO Katherine Maher is invited to testify.

Industry News

Former WJBC, Bloomington Host Scott Laughlin Dies at 65

Longtime Bloomington, Illinois radio personality Scott Laughlin died on Tuesday (4/30) at 65 after a long battle with cancer. Laughlin, who retired from Cumulus Media’s news/talk WJBC-AM in 2019 shortlyim after being diagnosed with kidney cancer, worked in the radio industry for 40 years – almost 20 of those years as morning host for WJBC. WJBC states, “Laughlin was a longtime supporter of the Salvation Army, volunteering each year to ring bells and help raise money for the Bloomington non-profit. That included the ‘Cubs vs. Cards’ challenge with his good friend Gary Morefield – and the ‘Scott vs. Scott’ challenge alongside WJBC’s Scott Miller. Last year, the Salvation Army created the ‘Scott Laughlin Spirit Award’ to honor its top fundraisers through the annual red kettle campaign.” Laughlin is survived by his wife Lori.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (5/1) Top News/Talk Media Stories

The pro-Palestinian protests at college campuses across the country and the attempts to broker an Israel-Hamas cease-fire; the presidential race; former President Donald Trump’s “hush money” trial in NYC; the House anti-Semitism bill; Marjorie Taylor Greene’s campaign to oust House Speaker Mike Johnson; the U.S. migrant crisis; and Florida’s six-week abortion ban & Arizona’s repeal of the 1864 anti-abortion law were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

The “Tavis Smiley” Show Expands into 11 Markets

The “Tavis Smiley” radio show is adding 11 new affiliate stations to its national syndication venture. SmileyAudioMedia, Inc. says the program will launch on WHBP-FM, Orlando; WGPR-FM Detroit; WNOV, Milwaukee; KMGG-FM, Albuquerque; WFOV-FM, Flint, Michigan: KLEK-FM, Jonesboro,im Arkansas; WUVS-LP, Muskegon, Michigan; WVBH-LP, Benton Harbor, Michigan; WUMO-FM, Montgomery, Alabama; WMIS-AM, Natchez, Mississippi, and KBWC-FM, Marshall, Texas. Tavis Smiley says, “The show’s expansion into media markets across the United States, including heritage stations in key battleground states like Michigan and Wisconsin, represents the continuation of our vision for this innovative, unapologetically progressive programming. We will continue to provide our growing listener base with enlightening and empowering programming geared toward African Americans and other citizens of color, and we will cover topics that other radio shows are too timid to discuss.”

Industry News

MIW Announces “Speak Up!” Mentorship Program

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. announces the opening of the application window for theim “Speak Up!” mentorship program in honor of the late Laurie Kahn (pictured). “Speak Up!” is a one-year mentorship designed for women in small to medium radio markets seeking guidance and mentorship to further their career goals. One candidate from radio broadcasting, from any department, will be selected and jointly mentored by MIW experienced executives and Media Staffing Network certified coaches. The application window closes on Friday, May 17. MIW board president Ruth Presslaff says, “This mentorship is particularly special as it continues Laurie’s mission. We are honored to have the privilege to partner with [Media Staffing Network president] Lisa Fields to carry that legacy forward.” Get information and apply here.

Job Opportunity

Stonecom Has Openings in Cookeville, Tennessee

Stonecom Cookeville has three positions open. They are seeking a broadcast journalist/news reporter who is a lover of news who wants to lead their team and do news the right way. It is radio but on-air does NOT have to be part of the job. Writing and reporting MUST be part of the job. Send writing samples,im airchecks, and salary requirements to the address below. The company also seeks an on-air talent and programming assistant to be a part of the Lite Rock 95.9, Rock 93.7, 106.9 Kicks Country, News Talk 94.1, 93-3 The Dawg, Sports Radio 104.7, 101.9 / AM 920 WLIV, 96-9 Hwy 111 Country team. Send your resume. Send an aircheck. Send two sentences describing your goal in work and why this job interests you. You must do all three. And finally, Stonecom is seeking a graphic artist who designs clean, attention-getting logos, posters, mailers and web graphics. A great opportunity to supplement your income, add additional clients to your growing repertoire, or work from home. Send at least five examples of your work – along with your resume. Reply to: Stonecom, Attn: Human Resources, 1 Stonecom Way, Cookeville, TN 38501 Or email marcia@stonecomradio.com. Stonecom is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Industry News

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

The pro-Palestinian protesting students’ takeover of Columbia U. hall and other campuses across the country; the Israel-Hamas war and work on a cease-fire; former President Donald Trump’s “hush money” trial in NYC; House Democrats announce they’ll back House Speaker Mike Johnson; the U.S. migrant crisis; Florida’s six-week abortion ban; and the Justice Department recommends easing restrictions on marijuana were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

WBZ-AM, Boston Reporter Kim Tunnicliffe Victim of Budget Cuts

Longtime WBZ-AM, Boston news staffer Kim Tunnicliffe exits the iHeartMedia all-news station. Sheim posted on X: “Some personal news to share. After 26 yrs at WBZ Radio, I’ve been let go due to corporate budget cuts. Quite the shock, but I’m taking some time for me, & spending lots of qt w/my pets. They love having me home & honestly, I don’t miss the hellish Boston commute…. I’m taking time to decide what I want to do next, but in meantime, I want to thank all the ppl I’ve interviewed over the years, esp the everyday folks who welcomed me into their homes as if I were family. Thank you for trusting me w/your stories. It’s been an absolute honor!”

Industry News

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

The pro-Palestinian protests on U.S. college campuses and the seizing of Hamilton Hall by protestors at Columbia; the Israel-Hamas war; the presidential race and the latest polling data; former President Donald Trump’s “hush money” trial in NYC; Marjorie Taylor Greene’s move to oust Mike Johnson from House Speaker post; four police officers are killed in Charlotte while serving a warrant; Antony Blinken’s trip to China; and the Supreme Court’s hearing arguments of presidential immunity were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Report: Francesa Says Tom Brady “Not Going to Be Great” TV Analyst

The publication Marca reports that former WFAN, New York afternoon drive legend Mike Francesa has a not great prediction about Tom Brady’s probability of success as a FOX Sports NFL color analyst. The seven-time Super Bowl winner will begin his 10-year, $375 million gig with FOX this September, takingim over for Greg Olsen alongside play-by-play announcer Kevin Burkhardt. Francesa is quoted saying that Brady obviously has a deep knowledge of the game but he believes Brady will struggle. “I don’t think his personality is such. I don’t think he’s going to be great at it. I really don’t. I think there’s a unique quality that you have to bring that allows you as an analyst to see the game, see the game quickly, plus bring personality into it. It’s a tricky job for the analyst in football because you’re going to spend a lot of time over replay. You’re going to spend a lot of time breaking down what happens on replay. And you also have to be very personable and glib in how you do it. I don’t see him there.” Read the Marca story here.