Industry News

Emmis to Sell Indianapolis Headquarters

Emmis Corporation is putting its corporate headquarters at 40 Monument Circle in Indianapolis up for sale and it continues to purge itself of its radio-era assets. Emmis chairman and founder Jeff Smulyanim comments, “Monument Circle has been Emmis’ home since 1998, and I’m proud of what we built, and the people who helped build it. As we divested assets, including our local radio stations, we weighed what to do with the building and ultimately decided that it made sense to look for a new owner.” Last year, Emmis sold its Indianapolis radio stations – including heritage news/talk WIBC-FM and sports talk “The Fan” – to Urban One. Those stations are still operating from the Monument Circle studios. FOX59 in Indianapolis reports that “the sale of the building would not immediately impact the current tenants, which include Star Bank and several Urban One radio stations such as WIBC. Emmis did not clarify, however, if these tenants would have to negotiate new leases with the eventual purchasers or if they could be required to relocate within a specific time following a sale.” See the FOX 59 report here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (9/12) Top News/Talk Media Stories

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy opens impeachment inquiry into President Joe Biden over Hunter Biden’s business dealings; North Korea’s Kim Jong Un vows “full support” for Russia during weapons talks with Vladimir Putin; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the 2024 presidential race; the U.S. migrant crisis; the search for escaped killer Danelo Cavalcante; and the aftermath of the Morocco earthquake and the Libya floods were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Michael Harrison Appointed Executive Advisor to UNESCO for the UN’s Celebration of World Radio Day 2024

TALKERS founder and longtime radio programming pioneer Michael Harrison has been appointed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to the position of Executive Advisor for the 2024 presentation of World Radio Day (WRD), celebrated each year on February 13.

The theme of the 2024 celebration is Radio: A century informing, entertaining and educating.  

Harrison issued the following statement: “In an era marked by the dizzying speed of technological innovation and the rapid obsolescence of one shiny new platform after another, radio is beginning its second century of service as one of the most dependable and widely-utilized forms of media in the world. WRD’s mission in 2024 will be to shine a broad floodlight on radio’s remarkable past, relevant present and promise of a dynamic future. The opportunity provided by the 100-year-plus milestone of radio along with the medium’s endorsement by the United Nations begs to be trumpeted at full volume. I am honored and invigorated at this delicate time in history to be able to participate in helping to celebrate this glorious, iconic medium on a global level.”

UNESCO has posted the following statement: “For many generations, radio has remained the most far reaching, easily accessible communication medium that informs and entertains all sectors of society. While in some regions it has been used to fuel hatred, divisions and conflicts, a lot of progressive legislation and regulatory mechanisms have been passed in many countries resulting in radio that broadcasts balanced news, programs and practices independent journalism in general.”

The statement continues: “Over the years radio practitioners have received training to improve their professionalism and adapt to changing editorial and ethical demands as well as technological developments especially radio’s incorporation into new popular digital platforms. Increasing access to reliable information and reaching audiences in remotest parts of countries in different languages, regardless of literacy levels, have been some of the greatest attributes of radio, still to be surpassed by any other media.”

Every year, UNESCO offers radios stations copyright-free material and suggests some ideas that radio stations could include following the annual themes decided by the WRD Committee, such as special radio shows and audios, open house, broadcast exchanges and increased listener interaction, among others.  Harrison will play a key role in facilitating these processes for 2024.

While UNESCO coordinates World Radio Day activities at a global level, UN member countries, through their radio stations and media stakeholders, celebrate the day in a variety of ways they see fit, including offerings of some optional 13 program ideas offered by UNESCO, information, news, audio and video resources every year.

Harrison will be reaching out to radio industry leaders worldwide to, as he says, “Do our best to raise awareness of radio’s ongoing importance and value and help the broader industry achieve that worthy goal, integrating into the new technology and social norms of this remarkable new era.”

Industry News

WPHT, Philadelphia Broadcasts Dom Giordano’s Parent-Targeted Podcast as Back-to-School Special

In what was clearly a timely programming choice, WPHT, Philadelphia “Talk Radio 1210” aired the back-to-school edition of popular midday host Dom Giordano’s acclaimed podcast, “Readin’ Writin’ and Reason.”im Giordano, heard daily 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm, is considered “The Dean of Philadelphia Talk Radio.” He is a former teacher and longtime education analyst. The special program, which aired on 8/31 at 9:00 pm emphasized the importance of parental rights and featured noted psychiatrist Renee S. Kohanski M.D. who gave specific guidance on how parents could direct their kids to realize they could come to them with anything that happened in school. Riley Gaines joined to talk about gender issues, particularly in female sports and Kirk Cameron came aboard to discuss getting books that celebrate traditional values back in libraries. Giordano tells TALKERS, “The show showcases the cutting-edge educational issues we face as a country and offers solutions both short and long term.” On his regularly scheduled show today (9/12), Giordano will be interviewing 13-year-old singing/recording rising star Stella Mabry about her song “Mean Girl” which she wrote at the age of 10 to express her experience being bullied in school. Bullying continues to be a growing problem in American education.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (9/11) Top News/Talk Media Stories

The 22nd anniversary of the terror attacks of 9/11; former President Donald Trump asks Judge Tanya Chutkan to recuse herself from his election subversion case; President Joe Biden’s faltering support from working-class voters; the U.S.-Iran $6 billion prisoner swap; Biden’s press conference in Vietnam; the Hunter Biden investigation; the 2024 presidential race; House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s Biden impeachment inquiry plans; North Korea’s Kim Jong Un travels to meet with Russia’s Vladimir Putin for weapons talks; and the U.S. takes on Google in an anti-trust suit were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry Views

Monday Memo: “You are about to enter another dimension,” The Radio Zone

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

imMany news/talk stations broker weekend hours to professionals who host ask-the-expert shows to attract new clients.

AND IT WORKS…IF…the show (for lack of a more diplomatic way to say this) doesn’t suck. And if it isn’t a well-kept secret available only to those listening in real-time. Make it the hub of a broadcast/podcast/social media strategy. In some markets where I don’t have a client station, I work directly with weekenders, setting-up the workflow for that strategy; and coaching the hosts, because their stations don’t.

But don’t take my word for it. I asked ChatGPT: “In the style of Rod Serling, explain how attorneys, real estate agents, and financial advisors can attract new clients by hosting ask-the-expert radio call-in shows.” MOMENTS later, the robot replied…

“You’re about to embark on a journey where the boundaries of expertise and the airwaves blur, a place where the seekers of knowledge and the purveyors of guidance converge. Welcome, dear listener, to the realm of the ask-the-expert radio call-in show. In this enigmatic space, attorneys, real estate agents, and financial advisors have found a conduit to attract new clients unlike any other.

Picture, if you will, an attorney stepping into the radio spotlight

 The air is charged with anticipation as listeners dial in with their legal queries. With a voice as authoritative as the gavel’s echo, the attorney navigates the complexities of the law, unraveling legal mysteries for all to hear. As each answer resonates through the airwaves, trust is built, and seekers of legal counsel find themselves drawn to this beacon of clarity. The attorney has become not only a voice but a guide, attracting clients who yearn for someone to navigate their legal twilight zone.

im

And now, shift your gaze to the real estate agent who steps into the radio’s embrace

 The lines are buzzing with questions about the labyrinthine world of property transactions. With each response, the agent paints a picture of market trends, property values, and the elusive art of negotiation. As the agent’s insights cascade through the radio waves, an aura of expertise takes shape. Those yearning for a steady hand to navigate the winding corridors of real estate find solace in the agent’s voice. The agent has transformed into a beacon, attracting clients who seek someone to illuminate the path to their real estate dreams.

Finally, consider the financial advisor entering the radio’s sphere

 The lines light up with inquiries about investments, retirement, and securing financial futures. With a voice as reassuring as a well-balanced portfolio, the advisor deciphers the complexities of financial planning. Each word uttered becomes a thread in the tapestry of financial security. Listeners, entranced by the advisor’s insights, recognize a sage who can guide them through the tumultuous sea of monetary choices. The financial advisor becomes a lighthouse, attracting clients who crave a steady hand to navigate their financial voyage.

In this realm of radio airwaves, where seekers become callers and experts become guides, attorneys, real estate agents, and financial advisors have discovered a conduit to attract new clients. As their voices resonate with wisdom and authority, as their advice slices through the enigma of their fields, a bond of trust is forged. These experts, illuminated by the radio’s glow, become beacons in the darkness, attracting clients who yearn for guidance in the vast twilight zones of law, real estate, and finance. And so, dear listener, the call-in show becomes not just a program but a nexus where seekers and guides converge, bridging the gaps between knowledge and curiosity, between questions and answers. Welcome to the radio’s embrace, where the experts illuminate the unknown, one call at a time.”

Cue the music.

Next week here: “Why not just podcast?”

Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working at the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. He is the author of “Spot-On: Commercial Copy Points That Earned The Benjamins,” a FREE download; and “Multiply Your Podcast Subscribers, Without Buying Clicks,” available from Talkers books. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke

Industry News

“The Daily” Stays Atop Podtrac’s August Podcast Ranker

According to data from Podtrac (based on U.S. unique monthly audience), The New York Times’ “The Daily” stays atop its Top Podcasts chart for the period of August 2023. The Daily Wire/Cumulus Podcast Network’s “The Ben Shapiro Show” stayed in its spot at #7, iHeartPodcast’s “Stuff You Should Know”im remained at #9, Cumulus Podcast Network’s “The Dan Bongino Show” rose one spot to #11, and FOX Audio Network’s “FOX News Hourly Update” fell one spot to #16.  Other data from Podtrac from this report includes: 1) U.S. unique monthly audience increased for all but one of the Top 20 publishers in August 2023 over July 2023; 2) The average U.S. unique monthly audience for the Top 20 publishers was up 13% month-over-month and down 3% over July 2022; 3) Total global downloads for the Top 20 publishers were up 7% month-over-month and flat year-over-year; and 4) The combined audience for the Top Sales Networks was up 15% month-over-month.

Industry News

SiriusXM to Present Town Hall with Chris Christie

SiriusXM and New England College in Concord, New Hampshire announce that former New Jersey Governor and 2024 presidential candidate Chris Christie will take part in a town hall event with P.O.T.U.S. channel host Steve Scully. The special program takes place before an audience at the school tomorrow (9/12) at 1:00 pm ET. The former governor is also expected to take questions from audience members.

Industry News

Top Weekend News/Talk Media Stories

President Joe Biden’s bad poll numbers; the possibility of a government shutdown without congressional action; Biden’s trip to Vietnam; today’s 9/11 anniversary; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the 2024 presidential race; the Hunter Biden investigation; North Korea’s Kim Jong Un’s expected meeting with Russia’s Vladimir Putin; the UAW threatens to strike; the search for escaped PA killer Danelo Cavalcante; the search for survivors of the Morocco earthquake were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

SiriusXM and Megyn Kelly Agree to New, Multi-Year Deal

SiriusXM announces that talk media personality Megyn Kelly signs a new contract to continue hosting “The Megyn Kelly Show” live on the platform. SiriusXM says, “Under the multi-year deal, the veteran journalist and legal expert will deliver her signature commentary and hard-hitting interviews through theim 2024 election season and beyond. ‘The Megyn Kelly Show’ will premiere exclusively on SiriusXM Triumph channel 111 on weekdays from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm ET, with the program later available on all major podcast platforms. The program will also air a special edition on September 14 when Kelly interviews former President Donald Trump. Kelly comments, “I’m thrilled to continue my relationship with the great people at SiriusXM who have been tremendously supportive of our show from the start. In an age where conversations are being stifled and news skewed to please the politics of only a small set of people, it is a privilege to work with a company that values free speech and open, respectful, elevated debate.”

Industry News

Larry O’Connor’s Over the Top Media to Produce Fisher House Shows

Fisher House Foundation announces that Larry O’Connor of Over the Top Media is taking over production of the foundation’s talk radio program, “The Fisher House Story,” that is made available to talkim radio stations for free to air around holidays including Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Veterans Day, as well as year-round programs. The Fisher House imFoundation is a non-profit that provides housing for families of patients receiving care at major military and VA medical centers so they can be near their loved ones. O’Connor, who hosts the morning drive program at Cumulus Media’s news/talk WMAL-FM, Washington, has hosted the show in the past. Fisher House says, “This informational talk show will inspire listeners through stories of amazing service members, veterans, and their families. Producer and host Larry O’Connor’s love and respect for our military will only amplify these radio specials.”

Industry News

RAB Webinar to Present “Radio Drives Brand Conversations” Study

The RAB announces that it will present a webinar next Wednesday (9/13) at 1:00 pm ET to reveal the results of the study it commissioned in collaboration with Engagement Labs titled, “Radio Drives Brand Conversations: Unveiling the Untapped Potential of Radio Conversations” that “uncovers the extraordinary impact of radio on purchase intent, societal discourse and the bottom line for advertiser brand goals.”im Some of the key findings of the study include: 1) Heavy radio listeners engage in a staggering 4.7 billion weekly brand conversations, outpacing heavy users of other media channels, including TV, social media, magazines and newspapers; 2) The study underscores for advertisers’ radio’s dominance across 15 business categories, including sports, financial services, technology and more; 3) A staggering 51% of brand conversations among heavy radio listeners result in an intent to purchase, surpassing the national average of 49%. This remarkable impact is particularly pronounced in sectors like automotive, sports, telecom, technology, beverages and healthcare. RAB CEO Erica Farber states, “Radio is often referred to as the original social medium because of its ability to engage listeners through conversation, entertainment and information. This study underscores radio’s ability to drive word of mouth brand conversations for advertising partners, more so than any other media.” The webinar is free for RAB members. Register for the webinar here.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories for Week of September 4-8

The various legal battles facing former President Donald Trump again came together as the most-talked-about story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was President Joe Biden’s low job ratings, followed by the 2024 presidential race and the legal theory Trump may be disqualified from the ballot due to Section 3 of the 14th Amendment 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

Tricia Walker to Lead Cumulus Media’s Tri-Cities TN Cluster

Cumulus Media appoints Tricia Walker VP/market manager for its Cumulus Tri-Cities, Tennessee station group, effective October 1. The Tri-Cities includes Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol. She was mostim recently director of sales at the company’s Beaumont, Texas/Lake Charles, Louisiana operations. The cluster includes news/talk WJCW-AM, sports talk WXSM-AM and two music brands. Walker says, “I’m extremely excited to be joining our Tri-Cities team. Cumulus Media is a great company to be a part of, supporting its employees with many great resources for our success. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to serve our Tri-Cities team, advertisers, and community. I have family in the market and can’t wait to call Tri-Cities home.”

Industry News

Ramsey Solutions Presents Livestream to Combat Student Debt

Next Tuesday (9/12), Ramsey Solutions presents a free livestream program titled, “Student Loan Debt in America: How We Got Here and How We Get Out” at 8:00 pm ET. Nationally syndicated radio host and bestselling author Dave Ramsey and “The Ramsey Show” co-hosts Rachel Cruze and Jade Warshaw will offer insights to make student loan repayments easier and more manageable. Ramsey says, “We want everyone in America who is scared and feeling the burden of student loan debt payments to know there’s hope. You can get through this. Making a plan now, and preparing for these payments to resume, will help you feel less anxious and more confident. And we’re here to walk you through it. In the process, you’ll learn how to better handle your finances now and in the future.” You can register for and watch the livestream here.

Industry News

Talk Media Commentator C.C. Carter Shares Touching 9/11 Audio Podcasts with Radio

Longtime talk media host, commentator and director of the Good For You Network (www.goodforyounetwork.comClaire Carter (a.k.a. C.C. Carter) is making the audio files of two of her compelling short-form podcasts about 9/11 available at no cost for airplay on interested radio stations in time for this coming Monday’s 22nd anniversary of the tragic attack on America.

The first titled, “Never Again Should There Be a 9/11,” (8:00) is a plea for American government andim society alike to learn from the mistakes made before, during and after the tragedy so as to prevent such an atrocity from happening again. Carter tells TALKERS, “On the Sunday after 9/11, I listened to a sermon titled, ‘Making Sense of the Senseless.’ Its overriding message was: We cannot allow all these people to have died in vain. We need to do good in their name. And so to honor and remember all those who died, all those who survived, all those involved in the rescue and recovery efforts, as well as all those whose lives will never be the same, I have written and recorded a moving, memorable and thought-provoking piece, ‘Never Again Should There Be a 9/11,’ with the music, ‘Help is on the Way’ composed and performed by composer, David Friedman. It is all the more compelling when you watch the video on YouTube.” Carter adds, “We came together then. Can we come together again for the sake of the well-being of our nation and world. And what will it take to prevent such a horrific act from happening again? Thank you for caring and getting the vocals, the music and the video to as many people as possible around the world – including government officials who need to ensure our safety and security.” View the video here.

Regarding the podcast, “Reflections on 9/11,” Carter says, “Two months after 9/11, I went down to the World Trade Center site to pay my respects. I walked over to the makeshift ‘Teddy Bear’ memorial site, where people had spontaneously left notes and cards – and teddy bears. I wanted to write down some of what was left, because it was meant to be heard. I wanted to give voice to peoples’ hearts and heartache. And so, I ask you to listen to the raw emotions emanating from their hearts. ‘Reflections on 9/11’ (4:11) with music by Gunhill Road that you can download here. Please share with everyone you know. Remembering all those beautiful souls who left us that day is the least that we can do – and so much more.” Download “Never Again Should There Be a 9/11” here. To arrange a timely interview with C.C. Carter contact Victoria Jones at DC Radio Company. 917-865-3991 or victoria@dcradiocompany.com.

Industry News

PodcastOne to Ring Nasdaq Opening Bell on Friday

Tomorrow (9/8), the Nasdaq opening bell ceremony will feature LiveOne subsidiary PodcastOne as itim celebrates the completion of its direct listing on Nasdaq and spin-out as a separate public company. After the spin-out, LiveOne will own approximately 80% of PodcastOne (on a non-fully diluted basis) and continue to consolidate PodcastOne’s financial results. LiveOne says it expects PodcastOne shares at $8 per share minimum.

Industry News

MIW to Present Behind the Mic Webinar

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc announces the first in the “Tools of the Trade” webinarim series titled, “Behind the Mic,” that features radio personalities Angela Yee, Dana Cortez, and Patty Steele. The webinar takes place on Wednesday, September 20 at 2:00 pm ET. MIW board president Ruth Presslaff comments, “MIW is proud to announce this free ‘Tools of the Trade: Behind the Mic’ webinar focused on the women who have blazed trails as on-air personalities and are integral members of their communities.” Register for the webinar here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (9/6) Top News/Talk Media Stories

President Joe Biden’s negative job ratings; former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the 2024 presidential race and the 14th Amendment argument that could keep Trump off some states’ ballots; special counsel’s intent to seek an indictment of Hunter Biden on gun charges; the migrant crisis; and Hurricane Lee expected to become a major threat by the weekend were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

WABC, New York to Honor Cousin Brucie

77WABC and owners John and Margo Catsimatidis are honoring music radio pioneer and legendary air personality Cousin Brucie (Bruce Morrow) in recognition of his more than 60 years entertaining listeners.im The gala event being held in New York tomorrow (9/7) will also celebrate 102 years of WABC broadcasting “the best in news and entertainment to millions of listeners across the greater New York City area and now – with streaming, podcasting, and the 77WABC mobile app – to listeners around the world!” John Catsimatidis comments, “I grew up listening to 77WABC and Cousin Brucie. My dream was to return 77WABC to its glory with compelling and entertaining programming and big-name personalities. Plus, I wanted to bring back music on weekends when we all need a break from news, politics, and business. I called Cousin Brucie and got him back where he belongs – on 77WABC.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s (9/5) Top News/Talk Media Stories

Former President Donald Trump’s legal battles; the state of Americans’ attitudes toward President Joe Biden’s economic policies; Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio is sentenced to 22 years in prison for seditious conspiracy in the January 6 case; the Alabama congressional map ruling; the health of Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell; the search in Pennsylvania for escaped murder convict Danelo Cavalcante; and the possibility Tropical Storm Lee becomes a dangerous hurricane were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Denver Talk Host Steffan Tubbs’ to Exit Salem’s KNUS in November

News and talk radio pro Steffan Tubbs announced last month that he’ll exit his 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm KNUS-AM, Denver talk show on November 3. Tubbs, who has served in Denver with iHeartMedia’s news/talk KOA as well as Salem Media Group’s KNUS, has been producing documentaries in addition to his radioim work. In a Westword profile, Tubbs talks about his ascent in the news business, his plans for the “final chapter” of his working life, and his current film project about the deadly drug fentanyl. Locally, Tubbs has caused controversy with his 2020 documentary, Denver in Decay. About that film, Tubbs tells Westword, “That documentary kind of put me on the map as being one of the most hated media members by local politicians in Colorado in recent memory, and I embrace that. But with all the hate and praise, the one thing no one has ever said is that Denver in Decay is inaccurate. You can say all you want if you don’t like the messaging, but you can’t attack the accuracy or the credibility.” Read the full story here.

Industry News

Joe Dubin Joins “The Game” in Nashville to Co-Host Late Mornings

Longtime Nashville sports media personality Joe Dubin (right) is returning to Cromwell Media’s WPRT-FM “The Game” to co-host the 9:00 am to 11:00 am program “The Chase & Big Joe Show” alongsideim director of operations and sports programming Chase McCabe (left). Middle Tennessee State alum Dubin was an original host on “The Game” when the station flipped to sports talk in 2012. He has also hosted programs on WNSR-AM, WKRN-TV, and WSMV-TV. McCabe says, “This is a surreal moment for me. After being able to watch Joe on TV, intern with him and then produce his shows on “The Game,” I am thrilled to be able to finally co-host with him. Joe is one of my mentors who always taught me to laugh and we will be doing a lot of that each weekday. I’m so glad to have him back on the team.” Read the Tennessean story here.

Industry News

Wyoming Station Owner Susan Patrick Pleads Guilty to Tax Fraud

According to a report in Cowboy State Daily, Susan Patrick is pleading guilty to defrauding the IRS.im Patrick – co-owner of Patrick Communications and Legend Communications with husband Larry Patrick – admits to hiding $10 million in business revenue and $9.5 million in personal income. The companies own stations in Cody, Worland, Sheridan, Buffalo and Gillette under the Big Horn brand of networks. The report indicates that Patrick could get up to three years in prison and be fined up to $250,000 when she’s sentenced on December 19. Read the full story here.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Labor Day Weekend

Former President Donald Trump’s various legal battles; leaders in Congress begin working to avoid a government shutdown; House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s challenge to begin a Joe Biden impeachment inquiry; the state of the U.S. economy and the jobs outlook; the impeachment trial of Texas AG Ken Paxton; the sentencing of various Oath Keeper members related to January 6; Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un to meet for weapons talks; and the status of the Russia-Ukraine Black Sea grain deal were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the Labor Day weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

WFDF-AM, Detroit Flips Again – to News/Talk

A little more than two weeks after dropping its local urban talk format for syndicated sports talk, Kevin Adell-owned WFDF-AM, Detroit “910 AM Superstation” becomes a conservative news/talk outlet. Theim station features Michigan talk personality Justin Barclay in morning drive, followed by Premiere Networks’ daytime lineup of “The Glenn Beck Show,” “The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show,” Sean Hannity, and Jesse Kelly, supplemented by “Our American Stories” and some FOX News Radio content. Adell bought the former Radio Disney station in January of 2015 and launched “910 The Superstation” featuring Black talk hosts who were not on the payroll but were given the platform to get their message out. Ultimately, Adell says it wasn’t financially successful. He told the Detroit Metro News, “When you look at it, no one supported it. I couldn’t get the community to support it.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories for Week of August 28 – September 1

The numerous legal battles facing former President Donald Trump combined at the most-talked-about story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the legal theory that Trump is disqualified from holding office under section 3 of the 14th Amendment, tied with the 2024 presidential race, followed by the criminal cases and legal strategies of former Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows and former Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani 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

Scalzo Promoted to Market Manager for Good Karma Milwaukee

Good Karma Brands announces the promotion of Greg Scalzo to market manager for the company’s Milwaukee station group that includes news/talk WTMJ, talk WGKB-AM/W269DL “101.7 The Truth,” and sports talk WKTI-FM “ESPN Milwaukee.” Interim market manager Emily Dillinger states, “Greg’s impressive leadership, deep knowledge of the media and advertising industry, and personal experience as a successful on-air host, makeim him the right person to lead this market and continue to raise the bar. I’m excited for our team to continue our commitment to serving our communities through local news, talk and sports with best-in-class brands in Wisconsin.” Scalzo comments, “I am honored and excited to take on the role of market manager with our GKB Milwaukee team. We are excited to work together to serve Milwaukee and the state of Wisconsin with quality, trusted content in news, sports, and talk while connecting fans with our partners and impacting the community. We are proud of the new content we will be creating on ‘ESPN Wisconsin’ and the amazing things to come across all of our brands.”

Industry News

Bendixen Named National Director of Talk for Corus

According to Broadcast Dialogue, programming pro Mike Bendixen joins Canada’s Corus Entertainment as national director of talk radio and director of talk and talent for CFIQ-FM, Toronto. Bendixen previously served with Bell Media as PD atim CFRB-AM, Toronto “Newstalk 1010” and as national format director, news & talk programming. Most recently he’s been a principal with RMR Media Strategies. Corus VP Ronnie Stanton comments, “Mike’s knowledge combined with Corus’s commitment to excellence sets the stage for a promising future for the world of talk radio.” The story indicates that Bendixen takes over for Amanda Cupido, who exits the company. Read the Broadcast Dialogue story here.

Industry News

FOX Business and Univision Hosts to Moderate Next GOP Debate

FOX BusinessStuart Varney and Dana Perino will be joined by Univision’s Ilia Calderón in co-moderating the second Republican presidential primary debate on September 27 from the Ronald Reaganim Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. It will be broadcast live on FOX Business Network, FOX News Channel and Univision. It will also be livestreamed via FOX Nation. FOX News Media president and executive editor Jay Wallace says, “We are very proud to have Stuart Varney and Dana Perino co-moderating the second debate with Univision to provide Americans with a comprehensive view of the qualifying candidates vying for the Republican nomination for president.”

Industry News

Triton Digital Releases July Streaming Ranker

Triton Digital publishes its Streaming Ranker for the July 2023 period that lists the top performing digital audio publishers based on Average Active Sessions. For the United States (6am-12mid, Mon-Sun), iHeartMediaim remains ranked #1 with 281,120 Average Active Sessions. Following at #2 is NPR Member Stations (69,006 AAS) and Audacy at #3 (62,853 AAS). Cumulus Streaming Network is #4 (36,554 AAS), Beasley Broadcasting Corporate comes in at #7 (15,728 AAS), followed by Hubbard Broadcasting at #8 (13,478 AAS), and Urban One at #9 (9,131 AAS). See the complete ranker here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (8/30) Top News/Talk Media Stories

The legal battles facing former President Donald Trump and his co-defendants; the New Hampshire GOP debates the legal theory that Trump cannot run for office under the 14th Amendment; the 2023 presidential race; the Hunter Biden investigation; concern about Mitch McConnell’s health as he freezes during a press conference; and Hurricane Idalia slams Florida, Georgia and South Carolina were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.