President-elect Donald Trump’s controversial department head nominations topped the list again in yesterday’s conversations across talk media in America. The economy and escalation of war in the Middle East and Central Europe were also among the most-talked-about stories followed closely by the migrant crisis and health care/abortion rights, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Last night (11/17), President-elect Donald Trump announced his selection of Brendan Carr to be the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Trump praised Carr as a “warrior for free speech” and someone who has “fought against the regulatory lawfare that has stifled Americans’ Freedoms and held back our Economy.” Trump further stated, Carr will “end the regulatory onslaught that has been crippling America’s Job Creators and Innovators and ensure that the FCC delivers for rural America.” Carr is currently the leading Republican in the FCC. He is one of five commissioners leading the agency, all of whom are appointed by the president pending Senate confirmation. In response to the nomination, Carr thanked Trump in a post on X, saying, “I am humbled and honored to serve as chairman of the FCC. Now we get to work.” In a follow up post, Carr stated, “We must dismantle the censorship cartel and restore free speech rights for everyday Americans.” Carr was the central figure in the complaint against NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” for having VP Kamala Harris in a skit on the program without extending a similar opportunity to Donald Trump to remain in accordance with FCC rules to ensure equal time is granted on networks. At that time, Carr posted to X, “This is a clear and blatant effort to evade the FCC’s Equal Time rule,” he said on X. “The purpose of the rule is to avoid exactly this type of biased and partisan conduct – a licensed broadcaster using the public airwaves to exert its influence for one candidate on the eve of an election.” (EDITOR’S NOTE: Some of the recent information being disseminated about broadcasting “networks” being licensed by the FCC has been misstated or misinterpreted by politicians and the media alike. For the most part, TV networks are non-licensed content providers. The licenses are held by the individual stations, groups of stations and their owners with whom they affiliate.)
NAB response to selection of Carr: In response to the announcement that Commissioner Brendan Carr will be named Federal Communications Commission (FCC) chairman, the following statement can be attributed to National Association of Broadcasters (NAB president and CEO, Curtis LeGeyt: “NAB congratulates Commissioner Carr on his selection as the next chairman of the FCC. Commissioner Carr has been a steadfast leader in holding Big Tech accountable and supporting policies that will allow local broadcast stations to better compete with these behemoths and thrive. We are excited to continue our work with the chairman-designate to level the playing field and remove regulatory barriers that impede investment in local broadcast newsrooms. Together we will ensure local television and radio stations can innovate and continue to serve communities across the country.”
iHeartMedia announced today (11/18) that Mark Glynn has been appointed area president for Washington, effective immediately. The iHeartMedia Washington markets include sixteen iconic station brands across both broadcast and digital formats, offering a diverse lineup of music, talk and news programming. In his new role as area president, Glynn, who is currently market president in Seattle, will add oversight of the Spokane market operations to his responsibilities. He will report to Nick Gnau, division president for iHeartMedia. “Mark is a dynamic leader with a proven track record of success in the media industry. Since the day I met him, his passion for his team and his ability to foster a collaborative and creative work environment has been effective and impressive, making him the perfect person to lead Spokane to the success he’s achieved in Seattle,” Gnau tells TALKERS. “I’m honored to lead iHeartMedia Washington. In an era where audio thrives as a powerful medium, our brands in Seattle and Spokane stand at the forefront, poised to continue our legacy of success. I am grateful for the support of our dedicated sales teams and leaders in both markets,” says Glynn.
The transition of presidential power dominated this past weekend’s conversation (11/16-17), highlighted by buzz over highly controversial appointments to cabinet and department head positions in the forthcoming Trump Administration. Speculation over the coming massive migrant deportation was the top story followed closely by speculation over what incoming Trump policies will have on inflation and a growing chorus of threats about a recession. There was also a lot of talk about how the new administration will impact the wars in the Middle East and Central Europe as well as abortion rights and health care according to the ongoing research of TALKERS.
The aftermath of the election and a “postmortem” of the circumstances leading to its results were the dominant topics of conversation on talk media programs this past week (11/11-15). In addition, here’s how the stories stacked up: Trump Controversial Appointments; The Economy; Migrant-Border Crisis; Abortion / Health Care; Russia-Ukraine War; U.S.-Israel Relations; Climate Change / Race Relations /Gender Relations; Big Tech / Media Corruption-Bias; and Crime / Homelessness. To see the complete chart of the most talked about stories and people, please click here.
Nothing changes at the top of the Edison Research Top 50 Podcasts chart for the third quarter of 2024 –
“The Joe Rogan Experience,” “Crime Junkie,” and “The Daily” remain in the top three spots, respectively. This chart is based on total audience reach for weekly podcast listeners 13+ in the U.S. Other news/talk podcasts of note on this quarter’s chart include: “The Dan Bongino Show” at #17; “The Tucker Carlson Show” at #20; “The Ben Shapiro Show” at #22; “The Ramsey Show” at #30; and “The Megyn Kelly Show” at #50. See the complete ranker here.
According to a report from SFGate.com’s Alex Simon, Cumulus Media’s Bay Area sports talk outlet KNBR has parted ways with a number of staffers in a wide-ranging, budget-related downsizing. Afternoon
personality Tom Tolbert – who co-hosted the “Tolbert & Copes” show with Adam Copeland – and midday personality John Lund – co-host of “Papa and Lund” are both out. Additionally, the San Francisco Chronicle reports that the company also cut producer Danny Dunn, executive Lee Hammer, morning show producer Erik Engle and digital team members Jake Hutchinson, Danny Emerman, Austin Scott and Maureen Mahoney.
Nexstar Media Group appoints Bill Sammon SVP of Washington, D.C., editorial content for The Hill and NewsNation. In this newly created position, Washington-based Sammon will be responsible for directing
Nexstar’s national news content. He says, “I’m grateful for the chance to work with Nexstar’s incredible team of outstanding journalists. Last week they accurately informed the world who would win the presidency, and this week did the same with the House of Representatives – before any other news outlet – demonstrating yet again, Nexstar’s unwavering commitment to accurate, quality journalism.”
FOX News Channel reports that according to data from Nielsen, it was the “number one network in all of television” in weekday primetime. In that daypart, FNC had 5.4 million viewers, beating ABC’s 4.9 million
viewers, and CBS and NBC which saw 4.1 million viewers. On Election Day, FOX News Media’s primetime coverage of election night across FNC, FOX Network, FOX Business Network and FOX News Digital topped all television networks with nearly 13.6 million viewers and 4.4 million in the 25-54 demo. FNC’s “Democracy 2024” primetime coverage averaged nearly 10.3 million in total viewers and 3.1 million in the 25-54 younger demographic beating ABC, NBC, CBS and all cable news networks.
President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination of Matt Gaetz as attorney general and Gaetz’s resignation from his House seat; the GOP takes the majority of seats in the U.S. House giving Trump support from the Senate and the House; Trump’s promised migrant deportation; the expected pardons for January 6 convicts; and the economy were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Subject to Senate confirmation, FOX News Channel personality Pete Hegseth has been selected by President-elect Donald Trump to serve as defense secretary in his forthcoming administration.
Hegseth is co-host of “FOX & Friends Weekend” and a decorated U.S. Army veteran who was deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. He unsuccessfully ran for Senate in Minnesota in 2012, has authored several books supportive of the MAGA philosophy, and has been involved in grass roots conservative political activism. His selection has come as a surprise to Washington-watchers of all political stripes, and it is expected that his nomination will be met with a strong level of political resistance questioning his experience to take on and manage such an enormous responsibility. Regardless, his nomination illustrates the continuing growth and influence of talk show hosts in the modern-era political arena.
Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. (MIW) tells TALKERS they are thrilled to introduce Nikki Kuniej as the first mentee for the non-profit’s newly launched Digital Sales Mentorship Program. As director of digital strategy at Saga Communications’ Charleston Media Solutions, MIW states, “Nikki exemplifies the spirit of this program with her dedication to growth and community service. She brings a passion for driving strategic growth for local businesses.” Beyond her career, Kuniej is deeply involved in her community, serving as a Big Sister and board member for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry. She is active with the Charleston Chamber, where she contributes to the Regional Policy Committee, Thrive Ladies Networking, and the Regional Housing Coalition. Her contributions have not gone unnoticed; she was honored as a 2023 “One to Watch,” a Charleston Business Journal 40 Under 40 recipient, and a 2024 recipient of the RAB’s “Rising Thru the Ranks” award. Supported by its sponsor, Beasley Media Group, this program will provide Nikki with invaluable mentorship from top digital leaders. As the 2024-2025 mentee, Kuniej will engage in monthly coaching sessions with a Digital Mentor and leading digital experts, gaining valuable insights and guidance to drive her career forward. 
“I am overjoyed to be selected as the MIW Digital Mentee,” says Kuniej. “It’s the opportunity of a lifetime to have personal access to such accomplished and high achieving women for a year. Heading into 2025, I set a personal goal to focus on professional development, and this is the ideal way to start the year.” “We are thrilled to support such an impactful mentoring program that underscores the critical role of digital innovation in our industry,” said Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley. MIW board president Ruth Presslaff adds, “Nikki’s dedication to her professional growth and community service truly embodies the spirit of this mentorship. We’re eager to see the impact she’ll make as she continues to thrive in her career. With leaders like Nikki, the future of radio is promising – and with the support of companies like Beasley Media Group, our ability to offer meaningful mentorship opportunities is stronger than ever.” For more information on all MIW mentorship programs, please visit www.radioMIW.com.
President-elect Donald Trump’s initial cabinet and government power-job appointments was the top subject discussed yesterday (11/12) in the talk media. That was followed by continuing and growing speculation over Trump’s promised migrant deportation, his expected pardons for January 6 convicts, and the economy according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
According to a report from WHTM-TV, WSBA, York, Pennsylvania morning host Gary Sutton was let go from
the Cumulus Media news/talk station on November 7. Sutton began working full time at the station in 1997. He tells WHTM that he does not plan on retiring. “Tomorrow is the first time in 52 years that I don’t have to work, but I hope that doesn’t last long because I am not retiring. God is in control, and I know there are new opportunities ahead and a new chapter in my life.” Sutton says he and producer Mark McKenzie were dismissed due to budget cuts.
The latest blog post from the Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group looks at data from a study the company commissioned by MARU/Matchbox analyzing the auto aftermarket category. Some of the key findings from the study include: 1) The segment has recovered to pre-pandemic levels. Annual spend,
number of retailers shopped, retailers shopped most often, brand perceptions, and advertising recall have recovered; 2) Brand equity and shopping patterns for the top two performers (AutoZone and O’Reilly Auto Parts) are stable to up. The second-tier players are slightly off; 3) AM/FM radio and podcasts are the ideal platforms to advertise auto aftermarket. TV underperforms with category usage and brand equity: Heavy AM/FM radio and podcast listeners visit more retailers in the category, make more shopping trips, and spend far more than the average. Two key consumer segments, do-it-yourselfers and ultra-heavy shoppers are more likely to be heavy AM/FM radio listeners. TV viewers are weak category users. See the blog post here.
iHeartMedia Wilmington names Katie Ewell market president for the Wilmington, Delaware group. She has
been serving the company as market president for the Salisbury, Maryland operations. iHeartMedia Mid-Atlantic Area president Brit Goldstein says, “Katie has done incredible work in Salisbury, consistently demonstrating exceptional leadership and creativity. By adding the Wilmington market to her purview, she will bring her outstanding approach to partnership and innovative solutions to the entire Delmarva Peninsula. I’m excited to see Katie and the team flourish in her expanded leadership role.”
iHeartMedia news/talk outlet WRKO, Boston raised more than $67,000 during the station’s ninth annual DAV Radiothon to benefit the Disabled American Veterans Department of Massachusetts. The radiothon took place on Friday (11/8) and featured talk hosts Jeff Kuhner, Chuck Zodda, Mike Armstrong, Grace Curley
and Howie Carr encouraging listeners to donate and raise funds for the DAV of Massachusetts’ homeless shelter and transportation programs. iHeartMedia Boston director of operations, news, talk and sports Bill Flaherty says, “Once again, the WRKO listeners responded in support of our Veterans. Their generosity provides much needed services for those who sacrificed so much for our country.” Since 2016, the DAV Radiothon has raised over $1,125,000 to benefit veterans in the community.
Westfield Community Programming (WCPC) is launching a new, eight-week series, “Survivor Stories,” which profiles people who have experienced catastrophic circumstances and survive (and thrive). Their stories include recovery from cancer, Bell’s Palsy, suicide of a spouse and more. Mark G. Auerbach, longtime area
media producer and host of WCPC’s “Arts Beat” and “On The Mark” serves as producer and host. Auerbach, who survived simultaneous kidney failure, a massive heart attack, and complicated surgery in the last year, tells TALKERS, “As I fought to get back on my feet, friends and total strangers reached out to tell me how they had coped, survived, and moved on. Thanks to great healthcare people and friends, I’m here to tell my story and share others’ stories. We can learn and be inspired, as we see people conquer what appears impossible.” “Survivor Stories,” premiers this Friday, November 15, at 7:00 am on Westfield Community Programming, 89.5 FM WSKB, Southwick Community TV, and Agawam Media. It will be archived on YouTube under WSKB Community Radio.
The aftermath of the presidential election and President-elect Donald Trump’s potential cabinet appointments; speculation over Trump’s promised migrant deportation; Wall Street’s ongoing post-election rally; the rise in anti-Semitic activity in the U.S. and Europe; Trump’s expected pardons for January 6 convicts; and the Veterans Day holiday were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
iHeartMedia announced today (11/11) that Lisa DiMartini has been appointed market president for the Allentown and Reading markets, effective immediately. 
The iHeartMedia Allentown and Reading markets include seven iconic station brands across both broadcast and digital formats, offering a diverse lineup of music, talk and news programming. In her new role, DiMartini will oversee sales, programing, promotions, and operations for both the Allentown and Reading markets. She will report to Brit Goldstein, president of the iHeartMedia Mid-Atlantic area. “Lisa is the consummate professional – unflappable, positive, and centered. She has rejuvenated the Allentown market with her unique approach to fostering culture and partnerships,” said Goldstein. “I’m very excited to see Lisa apply her business principles to the Reading market and beyond.” DiMartini most recently served as the VP of sales for iHeartMedia Allentown, where she played a pivotal role in driving growth and fostering innovation. Prior to that, she served successfully as account executive for iHeart Allentown. Her career began at The Morning Call in Allentown and she is a graduate of Millersville University. “I am honored to expand my role to lead both the Allentown and Reading markets,” DiMartini tells TALKERS. “I look forward to working with the talented teams in both locations to drive continued success and growth while delivering value to our partners and listeners.”
The aftermath of the presidential election dominated this past weekend’s talk media discussions (11/9-10), highlighted by buzz over potential appointments to positions of power in the forthcoming Trump Administration and followed by an abundance of “Monday Morning Quarterbacking” about why the election went the way it did. Speculation over the coming massive migrant deportation was the top story along with interest on how the new administration will impact the wars in the Middle East and Central Europe. Other topics in the mix were the economy, and talk of Donald Trump’s plan to put Elon Musk and Robert Kennedy Jr. in positions of influence in his administration according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
The lead up to Election Day and its aftermath dominated all news/talk media platforms this week including a rehash of the key issues of this cycle: Election Postmortem; Economy; Migrant-Border Crisis; Abortion / Health Care; Russia-Ukraine War; Middle East Violence; Climate Change / Race Relations /Gender Relations; Big Tech / Media Corruption-Bias; and Crime / Homelessness. To see the complete chart of the most talked about stories and people, please click here.
Benztown, a global leader specializing in radio imaging, voiceover, programming, podcasting and jingles, announces the release today (11/7) of two new episodes of its series “Chachi Loves Everybody,” an original podcast hosted by its president Dave “Chachi” Denes. 
These episodes feature Chachi’s special guests Al Roker, longtime weatherman on NBC’s The Today Show and co-anchor of the iconic morning show’s third hour, and Patsy Smullin, owner/president of California Oregon Broadcasting, and host of the successful television interview series, Up Close and Personal. Roker and Smullin will be among those honored next week as Giants of Broadcasting by the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation at the 2024 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony. The event will be held on Tuesday, November 12th at Gotham Hall in New York City. To listen to these new “Chachi Loves Everybody” podcast episodes, please click here. For more information about the 2024 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony, and for a full list of honorees, please click here.
ELECTION POST MORTEM: “Monday Morning Quarterback” analysis of the presidential election was dominant on the top talk media stories list yesterday (11/7) as the dust slowly settles on an industry that just ran a marathon. Other top issues of discussion emanating from that included abortion rights, the economy, media bias, war and rising tensions in the Middle East and Central Europe, and the ever-present migrant/border crisis according to ongoing TALKERS research.
As NASCAR crowns a Premier Series Champion this Sunday, November 10th at Phoenix Raceway, Jeff Striegle, Motor Racing Network lead anchor, will sign off for the last time capping a 27-year career with the network. Striegle has witnessed some incredible moments with MRN including in recent years the introduction of the Busch Clash at the L.A. Coliseum and Chicago Street Course, the closest finish in the history of the sport just this spring at Kansas Speedway, but for him “It’s hard to pick out just one racing
moment.” Striegle tells TALKERS, “There are so many amazing memories. For me, what I will miss most are the people. Everywhere we go, we meet wonderful people, great race fans that tell us, ‘We have been listening to MRN for years…’ they always want to thank us for what we do. Without the fans, there would be no need for the Motor Racing Network.” “Throughout his time with the network Jeff has lent his talents to a number of positions around the racetrack before finding his way to the broadcast booth in 2013,” said MRN president Chris Schwartz. “His broadcast career began like so many others by working the public address booth providing the soundtrack for thousands of fans at his local racetrack, in Jeff’s case Berlin Raceway in Marne, Michigan. He has been involved with calling some of the sport’s most iconic moments, and it is fitting that the checkered flag will fall on his broadcast career by calling the final laps of another NASCAR Cup Series Championship.” Motor Racing Network will have flag to flag coverage of the NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race Sunday, November 10th beginning at 2pm ET. The NASCAR Cup Series Championship Race will be carried LIVE on approximately 300 radio station partners across the United States, the NASCAR mobile app, and at MRN.com. For affiliation in your area, contact Bob Quick, director, radio partnerships & traffic at Motor Racing Network by email at bquick@mrn.com or by calling 704-262-6713.