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Newsmax Raises $150 Million in Pre-IPO Plan.*  Newsmax CEO Christopher Ruddy reports “We did it!” According to the ascending multi-platform news organization’s founder, “When we announced our plan to go public, we also announced our plan to raise $150 million in Preferred Shares before we became listed.”  Ruddy tells TALKERS, “I am glad to report Newsmax hit the $150 million* mark over the Christmas-New Year’s holiday. In fact, we have raised $153 million*, having exceeded our target by $3 million. And we have thousands of investors who are still in the process of buying Preferred Shares! So, Newsmax has decided to extend our offering to $175 million – an increase of $25 million above our target raise.”  Ruddy concludes, “Newsmax expects to close on the remaining $22 million remaining very soon.” Read More Here *NOTE: “Raised” includes closed proceeds and investments committed / in process of closing.

Alan Jurison Joins Quu to Lead Innovation and Special Projects.  Quu, Inc., an industry leader providing convenient deployment of visual content for radio, announces today (1/7) that Alan Jurison has joined the company to focus on special projects and innovation. Reporting to Joe Marshall, Quu’s senior director of technical services, Jurison will spearhead initiatives to enhance radio broadcasts with dynamic visual programming and sales messaging.  Jurison brings extensive experience from his time as senior operations engineer at iHeartMedia, where he was known for innovative work in technology and strategy. “Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about elevating radio technology and helping the industry understand the critical role of metadata, especially in the digital dashboard,” Jurison tells TALKERS. “Joining Quu is an incredible opportunity to build on that mission. I’m eager to contribute to this talented team’s efforts to strengthen radio stations’ relationships with their listeners and advertising clients.” “Alan’s innovative mindset and technical expertise make him an exceptional addition to Quu,” said Steve Newberry, CEO of Quu. “His vision aligns perfectly with our goals to help radio boost ratings and generate new revenue through visual solutions that engage and retain audiences.” Alan will be at CES in Las Vegas this week, where he looks forward to connecting with industry peers. Interested in meeting up? Contact Alan at ajurison@myquu.com.

After making great strides with ratings, revenue, podcasts, local in-market promotions, and a national, live political forum (“The Gathering”) in 2024, which included expanding to 27 affiliates, the Compass Media Networks syndicated Erick Erickson Show starts today (1/6) with an additional 29 affiliates, bringing the total to 56.   Effective today, the following stations will start airing the Erick Erickson Show: KBYR, Anchorage, AK; KLOO, Corvallis, OR; WDBT, Dothan, AL; KSLM, Salem, OR; KSUE, Susanville, CA; WTNY, Watertown, NY; and the Supertalk FM network in Mississippi (WRQO, Brookhaven, MS; WXRZ, Corinth, MS; WTCD, Greenwood, MS; WOSM, Gulfport, MS; WFMM; Hattiesburg, MS; WFMN, Jackson, MS; WLAU, Laurel, MS; WZKR, Meridian, MS; WTNM, Oxford, MS; WKBB, Starkville, MS; WMPK, Summit, MS; WFTA in Tupelo, MS and it will also move into the live spot on KROF in Lafayette, LA. The show is a longtime staple of Cox Media Group’s 95.5 WSB, Atlanta where it airs 12:00 noon- 3:00 pm daily. In 2024, Erickson conducted live events in Las Vegas, Tulsa, Atlanta, Jacksonville, Athens, and Orlando, covering his own costs so stations could make more money.  “The Gathering” attracted 1,000 attendees from 47 states to hear from key Republican figures like Mike Pence, Ron DeSantis, and Mitch McConnell. In 2025, Erickson tells TALKERS, “We plan to expand this event to other markets.”

Today (1/6), KBLA Talk 1580 kicks off its bold new weekday lineup, which includes some of the nation’s most progressive and provocative voices. The new programming includes Dr. Cornel West, renowned scholar and former independent presidential candidate, former U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson, Jr. and former Ohio State Senator Nina Turner. They join KBLA White House correspondent Dr. Nii-Quartelai Quartey, and nationally syndicated hosts Tavis Smiley and D.L. Hughley, who already appear weekdays on KBLA Talk 1580, the flagship station of SmileyAudioMedia, Inc., based in Los Angeles.

“I am both humbled and proud that Dr. Cornel West, Nina Turner, and Jesse Jackson, Jr. have joined the KBLA Talk 1580 team as we continue to build the nation’s most innovative and empowering Black talk media platform,” said Smiley, Founder of SmileyAudioMedia, Inc. and chief visionary officer for KBLA Talk 1580. “No talk station in America can match the intellectual firepower that launches today, January 6th. KBLA Talk 1580 is proud to have more Black women talk show hosts than any talk station in the country, including Dominique DiPrima, the first Black woman to host her own radio talk show, “First Things First,” in LA morning drive time (6:00 am to 9:00 am).

“After all the rhetoric about Black men during the 2024 presidential campaign, now is the time to pass the mic to Black men of different generations to facilitate conversations people won’t find anywhere else,” concluded Smiley. “It’s going to be a challenging four years. KBLA Talk 1580’s new line-up represents what resistance looks like.”

BIN: Black Information Network, the 24/7 comprehensive national audio news network specializing in what it describes as “objective, accurate and trusted continual news with a Black voice and perspective,” today (1/6) announced Terry Foxx has joined as VP, news and content effective immediately.  In his new role, Foxx will be responsible for the day-to-day leadership of BIN: Black Information Network’s newsroom and its team of journalists, with a focus on development of news content and original programming.  “I am excited to have Terry join BIN: Black Information Network,” said Tony Coles, the network’s president. “In today’s rapidly changing media landscape, the role of news in shaping public discourse has never been more important. We’re confident his contributions will strengthen our position as a leader in delivering inclusive and impactful news and content to our audiences.”  Prior to his new role with BIN, Foxx served as regional director of talk programming for iHeartMedia Austin/San Antonio. His career includes roles at KUT-FM, University of Texas, and major stations such as WPLJ-FM, New York; B96, Chicago; KKDA-FM, Dallas; and WZGC-FM, Atlanta.

“I am thrilled to contribute to the growth and success of BIN: Black Information Network,” Foxx tells TALKERS. “BIN is a vital platform for amplifying diverse voices and delivering trusted, relevant news to our communities. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact and further strengthen the connection between BIN and the audiences we serve.”  BIN is distributed nationally through the iHeartRadio app, available across more than 250 platforms and 2,000 devices, as well as on local AM/FM broadcast radio stations across America, including Atlanta, Chicago, New York City, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C.

2024 has been a dramatic year of challenges, struggles, and measurable change for the nation, society, and our industry of talk radio and its related talk media platforms.  The chart below lists the 10 most talked about Stories, Topics and People discussed on talk shows across the nation during the past 12-month period, according to the research of TALKERS. In some cases, we listed several items as ties – because words and ideas overlap and can be somewhat amorphous. None of these items were discussed in a vacuum – the connections between individual stories and news items, the topics they cover, and the people who played them out under the spotlight of public scrutiny are quite entangled to say the least. We describe some issues as “umbrella” topics. Talk radio also has its own unique focus on populist issues that in many cases tend to be ignored by what is still referred to as the so-called “mainstream” or “legacy” media. (For example, talk radio was talking about public concern over immigration reform long before Donald Trump came down that elevator in 2015.) Conversely, there are “big” stories out there that talk radio leaves to the other media and generally ignores.

The biggest and most challenging issues that faced our industry in 2024 include:

• Economics of the radio industry.  Major companies continued to be preoccupied with financial survival and avoiding bankruptcy. The growing preponderance of layoffs across the industry has been heartbreaking. Can radio afford to do “radio” properly anymore? Talk radio is subject to the trials and tribulations of the larger radio industry. It is not surrounded by a protective force field simply because it is important.

• Podcasting and fractionalization. The burgeoning digital media ecosystem originally spawned and inspired by talk radio’s lead now competes with the medium within the interactive marketplace of ideas.  Talk radio faces the challenge of expanding to a multi-platform environment such as podcasting and video streaming while maintaining its special “radio” esthetic.

• Growing demographic divide.  With each passing year, radio (including talk) faces increasing abandonment by the new crop of adults who weren’t born until after 9/11.  This is a major problem no matter what pro-radio research and ratings company report.

• Freedom of speech.  Not only was the First Amendment under assault in 2024 from a number of directions – but so was an increasing level of intolerance by corporate America and the disease of hyper-wokeness for controversy.  Not good.

• AM radio in the dashboard.  The stated intention of the automobile manufacturers to eliminate AM radios from the dashboards of new vehicles is at least five years premature and extremely damaging to the interests of the public as well as the radio industry. The problem is compounded by the damage this issue does to radio’s image in the business world simply by having it being a much-discussed issue at all.

Let’s resolve to overcome some of these challenges in 2025.  Happy New Year!

iHeartMedia Tampa Bay announced (12/18) the addition of several FOX Sports Radio programs to the weekday and weekend lineup at 95.3 WDAE – “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio,” effective Monday, December 23, 2024.  WDAE’s weekday lineup, which already features “The Dan Patrick Show” and “The Herd with Colin Cowherd,” will now also broadcast FOX Sports Radio from 7:00 pm to 6:00 am ET, which includes “The Odd Couple with Kelvin Washington & Rob Parker,” “The Jason Smith Show with Mike Harmon,” and “The Ben Maller Show.” Additionally, WDAE will broadcast FOX Sports Radio around the clock on weekends. “We are thrilled to announce the further expansion of FOX Sports Radio programming to our lineup, which features the best sports content and personalities, both local and national,” said Nick Wize, WDAE program director. “We believe this expansion will provide our audience with even more engaging and insightful sports talk, continuing WDAE’s legacy as the ultimate meeting spot for the Tampa Bay sports fan.”

CBS Radio is Offering its News/Talk Radio a Holiday Special.  The show, titled “CBS News Radio Winter Holiday Special,” is three hours in length and hosted by legendary broadcaster, Gil Gross. It contains holiday fun and facts for airing December 20 through January 1 and available on FTP for multiple airings.  Content includes: The story behind the most recorded holiday song of all time: “The Christmas Song,” written by Mel Torme and first recorded by Nat King Cole; The Anti-Santas: The scary monsters from legends around the world who frighten children into being good at Christmastime; and a celebration of the U.S. Marines Toys for Tots campaign, which has provided Christmas cheer around the globe for almost 80 years. Eight (8) minutes local / Six (6) minutes Net each hour.  For information contact Amy Bolton at 646-734-2095 or BoltonA@cbsnews.com

Todd Starnes Offering Christmas Special to News/Talk Stations.  KWAM, Memphis station owner and nationally syndicated TALKERS Heavy Hundred member Todd Starnes is hosting a three-hour radio Christmas special available free of charge to radio stations around the nation.Special guests include Gov. Mike Huckabee, actress Sam Sorbo, and Pastor Robert Jeffress. Stations interested in broadcasting the show should reach out to todd@starnesmediagroup.com.

“Inaugural History Minute” Original Scripts and Produced Features Available During Run Up to January 20. Reckoning that “Americans have never seemed more optimistic, eager for the second Trump administration agenda,” consultant Holland Cooke urges that radio “share the buzz” already building ahead of January 20.Cooke’s client stations are selling “Inaugural History Minute” features for air beginning January 5; and he’s offering the scripts for use elsewhere at HollandCooke.com. Worth looking into!

Edison Research with support from LWC Studios, Latino Media Network, Libsyn, SiriusXM Podcast Network, and Uforia Podcasts unveiled the fifth-year anniversary of the “Latino Podcast Listener Report 2024” in a webinar hosted by Gabriel Soto, senior director of research at Edison Research, Elsie Escobar, director of community and content at Libsyn, and Briana Mendez, senior sales marketing manager at SiriusXM Media. The webinar offered up to five years of trending data and new findings about Latino podcast listeners as well as video interviews of podcast creators discussing how they’ve utilized the studies throughout the years. According to the study, 43% of U.S. Latinos age 18+ are monthly podcast listeners, a 72% increase since 2020 (25%).

Key findings include:

• Female listenership is up: Women now account for half of the U.S. Monthly Latino Listening population, making the composition of Latino podcast listeners 50% women and 50% men for the first time.

• Social media is a dominant source for podcast discovery: 47% of U.S. Latino monthly podcast listeners age 18+ first discovered podcasting by seeing it on social media, compared with 30% in 2020.

• YouTube gains share as the service used most often to listen to podcasts: 40% of U.S. Latino monthly podcast listeners age 18+ say they use YouTube the most to listen to podcasts – a 12-point increase from 2020. Thirty percent search on YouTube most often to find out about podcasts.

• Latino podcast listeners’ preference for video podcasts is up: Since 2021, U.S. Latino monthly podcast listeners age 18+ have increased their consumption of video that they actively watch while listening by 23% (2021: 70% vs. 2024: 86%), surpassing audio only podcasts at 72%.

• Gen Z and Millennial U.S. Latino listeners are more likely to listen or watch podcasts with other people: 43% of U.S. monthly Latino podcast listeners age 18+ have listened to or watched podcasts with others. Listeners aged 18–24 are 47% likely to share their podcast listening experience with others, those aged 25–34 are 46%, and those aged 35–44 are the most likely to listen to or watch podcasts with others at nearly half (49%).

• Latinos are spending most of their days with podcasts for entertainment: 78% of U.S. monthly Latino podcast listeners age 18+ “strongly agree” or “somewhat agree” that they listen to podcasts when they want to be entertained – an 8-point increase since 2020.

“Latinos have been trailblazers in podcasting, driving trends from leading the early adoption of YouTube to fueling the rise of video podcast consumption,” said Elsie Escobar, Director of Community and Content at Libsyn. Beyond educational content, Latino listeners are embracing a broader range of podcasts, from entertainment to inspirational stories. This growing diversity creates exciting opportunities for advertisers to connect with a vibrant audience and align brand messaging with their lifestyle interests and values.”

Soto says, “The number of Latinos consuming video podcasts has surpassed the number of those listening to audio-only shows. If the young Latino demographic is any indication of how listening will take shape among the rest of the podcast audience, podcasters will have another reason to consider video as part of their content.”

Click here to download the report.

Audacy has received the Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) Award, highlighting the company’s commitment to serving the military community. This award is presented to organizations that go above and beyond to support fallen heroes, veterans, and military families.  Audacy, led by the Philadelphia team and 1210 WPHT has been a long-time supporter of TMF, raising money and awareness for the organization’s mission. TMF is the beneficiary of WPHT’s annual “Talk Radio 1210 Radiothon” and Sports Radio 94WIP’s annual “WIP Birds at the Bye” event.  The company was honored (12/12) at TMF’s 2024 “If Not Me, Then Who…” Gala. Audacy CEO/president David Field accepted the award and offered remarks: “On behalf of my colleagues at Audacy, we are humbled to receive this recognition. We admire and salute the Foundation for its extraordinary work making a meaningful, often life-changing impact on the lives of veterans, the families of fallen heroes, and young people finding their way in our increasingly challenging world,” said Field. “TMF makes an enormous difference through its various programs that elevate lives, foster strong character and leadership and add meaning, purpose, and comfort. We hope to serve TMF as a loyal partner for many years to come.” The Travis Manion Foundation is a non-profit organization that empowers veterans and families of fallen heroes to develop character in future generations. TMF offers a variety of programs that help veterans and families of fallen heroes to heal, grow, and serve others. The inspiration for the foundation comes from 1st Lt Travis Manion, USMC, who made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety of his patrol in 2007. TMF carries on the legacy of selfless service and leadership embodied by Travis and all those who have served or continue to serve our nation.  Pictured above: members of Audacy Philadelphia at TMF’s 2024 “If Not Me, Then Who…” Gala.

Audacy has extended the contract of talk show host Steve Sanchez for another year through 2025. Sanchez is heard weekdays 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm and hosts a “carefully curated best-of” program Sundays 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm.  Sanchez was recently featured on Soledad O’ Brien‘s documentary with Scripps Media regarding Latinos in talk radio and how they were swaying the election in the swing state of Nevada (“In Real Life: War on La Radio).   Sanchez says, “It is a thrill to be dominating my daypart in format and I feel my audience growing exponentially right now. It’s a pleasure serving the Las Vegas market with the legendary station KDWN.”  Sanchez has been named one of the 100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America with his inclusion in the TALKERS 2022 Talkers Heavy Hundred. In 2020, this rising talk radio star was named #25 of the top 30 influencers in Las Vegas by LV magazine.

Rich Eisen Will Replace Jim Rome in the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET Time Slot on the Radio on Infinity Sports Network in Early 2025.According to the New York Post, “The Jim Rome Show” – nicknamed “The Jungle” – will be moving to the 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm ET slot and be independently syndicated by Westwood One. Rome hinted at the news when he teased a big show announcement for Monday in a post on X over the weekend. Infinity is a partnership between Audacy and Westwood One. Rich Eisen’s show can also be found on Roku and every relevant podcast platform, with highlights additionally posted on YouTube and through a Yahoo Sports portal. Eisen was previously a part of iHeart’s Fox Sports Radio lineup, and since exiting that network in 2020 he’s been syndicated by Westwood One.The rest of the Infinity lineup includes shows hosted by Maggie Gray and Andrew Perloff, Bill Reiter and Zach Gelb. To read the entire New York Post story, please click HERE.

Kicking off 2025, Stephanie Miller’s Live “Sexy Liberal Show” Books January Date at Warner Theater in DC. Progressive talk radio legend Stephanie Miller and her long-running, successful live review, “The Sexy Liberal Show,” have booked an upcoming appearance on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the historic Warner Theater in Washington, DC.  In addition to Miller, the program features regulars, John Fugelsang, Hal Sparks, and Frangela (Francis Callier and Angela V. Shelton). The show’s producers tell TALKERS, this evolving live road show gives Miller fans (“Steph Heads”) the opportunity “to rally the resistance, laugh through the chaos, and gear up for the fight ahead.” As is customary, the show will also feature soon-to-be-announced special guests.  For those who cannot make it in person to the show, it will be available via pay-per-view.   For more information, please click HERE.

Fisher House Foundation is announcing a Holiday Season edition of “The Fisher House Story.” Hear the demo and register today at radio.fisherhouse.org. “The Fisher House Story” is provided in varying lengths for news/talk radio stations as well as 30-minute public affairs show for all formats in the U.S. and around the world.  The free 3-hour, 1-hour, 25- and 30-minute radio specials are hosted by long-time WMAL, Washington, DC radio personality Larry O’Connor and feature stories of our nation’s heroes, the families who serve by their side, and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey.  This program is appropriate for the entire Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year season and is a fitting and inspirational holiday programming alternative for all formats.  The show features interviews with wounded warriors and veterans including heroes from Operation Enduring Freedom, the Vietnam War and an incredible, emotional story of one of America’s World War II living legends. Listeners will hear their stories fighting for our freedoms, the injuries and illnesses they endured. and the welcoming homes Fisher House provides for them and their loved ones while they go through their painful and painstaking recoveries.  Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. For more information on this radio special, available cash and barter free, contact TALKERS Heavy Hundred member Larry O’Connor at 562-665-9537 or loconnor@fisherhouse.org.

Clay Travis meets with Amir Ohana, Speaker of the Israeli Knesset

Clay Travis pays his respects at the Nova Music Festival Memorial where he laid a wreath.

Premiere Networks-syndicated personality Clay Travis, co-host of “The Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show,” broadcast live from Israel this week (12/9-12) in partnership with the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ), the leading non-profit organization building bridges between Christians and Jews while providing humanitarian care and lifesaving aid. In addition to co-hosting the radio show live from JNS – Jewish News Syndicate, Travis toured the region with the IFCJ, learning about the country’s rich history and the challenges faced in the current climate. He shared his first-hand accounts with millions of listeners this week as he traveled throughout the country, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. In the North, Travis toured the town of Metula near the border with Lebanon that endured attacks from Hezbollah. He also met with a farmer who is struggling to maintain his crops in the face of constant rocket fire and who lost his son and several workers in an attack on October 31, 2024. In the South, Travis visited the Nir Oz Kibbutz near the border with Gaza that was horrifically attacked by Hamas on October 7. He also visited the Nova Festival site and toured a special facility that is helping traumatized families and children. Additionally, Travis met with Amir Ohana, Speaker of the Israeli Knesset, who joined the program mid-week. He also interviewed Idit Ohel, mother of an Israeli hostage taken at the Nova Festival and met with other families of hostages at the weekly Saturday night rally in Hostage Square in Tel Aviv.  Plus, Travis toured the Tel HaShomer hospital where he met with injured IDF soldiers, and visited the Palmachim IAF Base and learned about the “Adopt a Battalion” program supported by IFCJ.  “Given the importance of the American-Israel relationship, I thought it was important to see with my own eyes the challenges and successes of Israel in the wake of October 7th and bring those perceptions to our audience,” Travis tells TALKERS. “Our team did a phenomenal job, and I couldn’t be happier with what we delivered to our audience this week.”

iHeartMedia San Diego’s eight music and talk radio stations participated in the seventh annual “iHeart Rady Children’s Giveathon” in partnership with Rady Children’s Hospital-San Diego this week (12/11-12).  These include talkers Newsradio 600 KOGO, San Diego Sports 760, and The Patriot AM 1360.  The stations broadcasted live from their studios each day of the Giveathon between 6 am – 6 pm. During the broadcasts, station personalities interviewed former patients, physicians and the parents and families of patients currently being treated at the hospital, who shared their stories and experiences with station listeners.  Over the course of the two-day Giveathon, $437,264 in donations was raised by listeners who made their contributions via phone, text and an online portal. Many listener donations were matched by local businesses, families and individuals. “The generosity of our listeners will help ensure that every child gets the best care possible, right here in our community,” Noreen Ippolito, market president for iHeartMedia San Diego tells TALKERS. Donations made to Rady Children’s Hospital help fund lifesaving technology and research, provide a safety net for children with little or no private medical insurance and create a healing environment for patients and their families.

Las Vegas-based, nationally syndicated (TMN) talk radio star, Daliah Wachs, M.D. continues her philanthropic ways.  Each year, Opportunity Village holds its Magical Forest event in Southern Nevada that runs from Thanksgiving through the New Year.  Opportunity Village helps those with intellectual disabilities and their families through enrichment, empowerment, and employment programs and services.  Sponsors decorate a tree that comprises a huge beautiful magical forest, one of their largest fundraisers to fund their programs and employment placement.  Wachs (pictured above with her “medical tree”) tells TALKERS, “It’s super cool and our show has helped support their mission for years.  We create a medical tree with an EKG sign and it’s one of our favorite local charities we support.”  Wachs is a member of the TALKERS Heavy Hundred and a past recipient of the TALKERS Humanitarian of the Year award.

Gunhill Road, the perennial pop music ensemble that has attracted hundreds of thousands of worldwide followers with its growing repertoire of issue-oriented songs and music videos, has released an anthem celebrating talk radio. “Don’t Stop Talking” is an uplifting and infectiously catchy tune about the vital role talk radio plays in supporting American freedom of speech and the First Amendment.  Non-partisan lyrics ring out: “As long as you’ve got a voice, don’t ever stop!” and “As long as you’ve got the truth, don’t ever stop!”  The original composition co-written by band members Steve Goldrich, Paul Reisch, Brian Koonin, and Michael Harrison encourages dedicated talk radio practitioners to keep up the good work and valuable service they provide the nation. The images accompanying the music include a dynamic montage of individual radio talk hosts in the process of doing their shows. Matthew B. Harrison, who produced the video visual components states, “Gunhill Road has achieved enormous internet recognition around the nation and world – much of it fueled by the attention and exposure its unique songs and videos have received on talk radio.  This amazing piece is the group’s way of giving back.” To view the video in its entirety, please click talkradioforever.com. To arrange an interview with Michael Harrison about the song and talk radio’s vital role in the marketplace of ideas, please email info@talkers.com.  For more information about Gunhill Road please visit www.GunhillRoadMusic.com.

Atlanta Hawks and Audacy today (12/13) Extend Their Multi-Year Relationship to Continue Making Sports Radio 92.9 The Game (WZGC-FM) the flagship station of the Atlanta Hawks Radio Network. As part of this agreement, all 82 Hawks NBA games can be heard throughout Georgia on the Atlanta Hawks Radio Network, which consists of affiliate stations in multiple markets and reach millions of listeners throughout the season.  Atlanta Sports Hall of Famer and Georgia Radio Hall of Famer Steve Holman, also known as the Voice of the Hawks, is in his 40th season and has never missed a Hawks’ regular season or playoff radio broadcast. Holman has totaled more than 3,000 consecutive games. Joining him on the broadcast is station brand manager Mike Conti, who has been with the Hawks Radio Network as a pregame, halftime and postgame host, and as a game commentator, since 2014. “We’ve taken great pride in seeing the growth and success of Sports Radio 92.9 The Game as the flagship station of the Atlanta Hawks Radio Network since its inception,” said Hawks’ president of business enterprise and chief commercial officer Andrew Saltzman. “We are excited that our growing fanbase will continue to enjoy Hawks basketball game coverage on The Game along with compelling sports talk every day from their line-up with the most talented hosts in the business.”  “We are proud to continue our long-standing relationship with the Atlanta Hawks,” said Rick Caffey, SVP/MM of Audacy Atlanta. “With our partnership now in its second decade, we look forward to continuing our comprehensive Hawks coverage on Sports Radio 92.9 The Game, V103, and worldwide on the Audacy app.”

Something Happenin’ Here!  The remarkable ratings rise, and buzz being created by Walter M Sterling‘s “Sterling Every Damn Night” (10:00 pm – 1:00 am) on Audacy’s WPHT, Philadelphia is worthy of the entire talk radio industry’s attention.  When he started in May, the time period was 18th with a 2.8 Total Adults in Nielsen. In his first month and first hour, the show got a 7.2, # 4. Now the November numbers are a 9.2, total adults, number 2 in Philadelphia.  This is AM only.  No FM.  All this reflects over the air listenership, no stream numbers included.  And to the best of our knowledge, there has been no marketing campaign attached to the success. It’s been organic.  Sterling (A.K.A. legendary consultant Walter Sabo) has taken quite an original approach to news/talk radio in performing the show – mixing a blend of old-time radio sounders and techniques with idiosyncratic, unexpected takes on everyday topics that impact people’s daily lives.  He is clever, funny, surprising and extremely irreverant… And it’s working big time.  A word to the wise: check it out. Don’t let this spark go unfanned.

By Walter Sabo
A.K.A. Walter M Sterling, Host
Sterling Every Damn Night, WPHT, Philadelphia
Sterling On Sunday, TMN

A grim day. They fired the whole band. You know who “they” are! Bloated management. The future of radio… ruined!

Year: 1936. Bandleaders took WNEW, New York, to court claiming that it was illegal to play recorded music on the air. Recorded music, conductors believed, stole performance rights fees from musicians. Consequently, Radio stations hired live bands to play music and networks offered live bands to affiliates until the court made a decision on the complaint.

Ultimately, the courts said that as long as a radio station owned the record, they could play it on the air.

Local bands were fired, network bands were fired. The radio industry embraced recorded music when it realized that WNEW’s

DJ Music show, “The Make-Believe Ballroom” was pulling a 25 audience share.

Airing recorded music was legal and moral. But many talented, capable, often union musicians lost their jobs. The radio industry changed.  That change resulted in the viability of modern radio.  Recorded music birthed the business of top 40.  Kids in an Akron record shop discovered “race” music in the back of the store and bought it with passion and speed compelling the retailer to reveal the phenomenon to local DJ Alan Freed. Freed put the songs on the air for a few hours a week… then he labelled the music rock ‘n’ roll.

Rock might never have defined our culture if music selection had been left up to the in-studio live bands. And a one and a two.

But a lot of musicians were fired in 1936.

This month, tragically at the holidays, many of our colleagues have lost their jobs. Time to challenge the aging legacies and rock.

The stage awaits.

Consultant Walter Sabo A.K.A. Walter M Sterling has a nightly show “Sterling Every Damn Night” heard on WPHT, Philadelphia 10:00 pm – 1:00 am. His syndicated show, “Sterling On Sunday,” from Talk Media Network, airs Sundays 10:00 pm – 1:00 am ET, and is now in its 10th year of success. He can be reached by email at waltermsterling@gmail.com or Sabowalter@gmail.com.

By Robert Pearl

EXCLUSIVE TO TALKERS

Noted real estate industry figure and radio personality Suzanne Miller, the founder of Empire State Properties and host of “The Miller Report,” was honored last night (12/11) in a dazzling awards party featuring speakers, food, music, and dancing in the Manhattan offices and studios of WABC Radio. The event brought together New York media luminaries, and close friends of Miller for a night, in a packed room, celebrating not only her accomplishments but the resilience and vibrancy of the city she loves.

WABC Radio and Red Apple Media owner John Catsimatidis set a festive tone by introducing legendary entertainer (and multi-station NYC radio personality) Joe Piscopo. Piscopo delivered an unforgettable performance of Frank Sinatra classics, including “New York, New York,” igniting a chorus of guests singing along. “This is what makes New York the greatest city in the world!” exclaimed Catsimatidis, who shared the stage with WABC stars Rita Cosby, Sid Rosenberg, and Frank Morano, alongside his wife (and WABC co-owner), Margo Catsimatidis, and WABC/Red Apple Media president Chad Lopez.

Lopez lauded Miller’s career. “Suzanne has achieved over $5 million in sales and transactions, created 500 jobs, and played a pivotal role in rebuilding Battery Park after 9/11,” he remarked. “But if you ask Suzanne, she’ll tell you her greatest accomplishments are her two children. That humility is what makes her so special.”

Miller, visibly moved, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the audience. “A year and a half ago, I was at my kitchen table with my kids, dreaming about ‘The Miller Report,’” she shared. “Today, we’ve touched over 5.5 million people, discussing New York, real estate, and life itself. This city, these people, it’s what drives me.”

She recounted her journey as a Brooklyn-born daughter of immigrants, whose parents arrived with just $30 after surviving immense hardships during World War II. Recounting her humble beginnings in Canarsie, she gave a shout out to another Canarsie kid, radio host and Guardian Angels founder, Curtis Sliwa, also in the room. Her mother’s investment in a Brooklyn property sparked Miller’s lifelong passion for real estate. “That’s when my love for New York began,” she said. “This city is tough, but its heart is unbreakable. Never bet against New York!”

Rita Cosby highlighted Miller’s impact on the city. “Suzanne, you’ve been a cornerstone of WABC and a vital part of New York’s growth,” Cosby praised. “You embody what makes this city thrive – vision, grit, and compassion.”

Sid Rosenberg delivered his assessment of the Big Apple: “Real estate is booming here in New York, but we’ve got to vote smart. It’s time to bring back our beautiful city and state to what they should be – but we need to have the right leadership,” he said in his signature New York style.

As the evening progressed, Miller’s humor and candor shone. She thanked her team, family, and key supporters, including Gary Brody, who helped brand “The Miller Report.” She also paid tribute to Margo Catsimatidis, calling her “the First Lady of New York” for her “elegance and influence.” As for the city’s future. “We’ve got work to do,” she said passionately. “But New York isn’t just going to survive – it’s going to thrive.”

The WABC Awards Party was a testament to the enduring spirit of New York City and the power of community. In the words of Chad Lopez, “Tonight, we honor Suzanne Miller not just for what she’s done, but for what she inspires us all to be.”

Robert Pearl is a Brooklyn-based journalist who writes about New York City media, politics, and culture.  He can be emailed at pearlknows@yahoo.com.  

iHeartMedia Milwaukee’s News/Talk 1130 WISN, the most listened-to radio station in Wisconsin, today announced its new prime-time lineup for 2025, effective January 2, 2025. Michael Harrison describes WISN as “one of talk radio’s pound-for-pound ratings champions.” The new programming lineup features well-known, highly rated show hosts who have decades of broadcasting experience and achievement in the Milwaukee market. “WISN is one of the great success stories in the radio industry over the past decade, in terms of both ratings and overall influence,” said Jeff Tyler, area president for HeartMedia Wisconsin. “We are confident that this latest evolution of WISN’s powerful lineup will meet and exceed the expectations of our listeners and our sponsors.”

Here is the Monday – Friday lineup with brief descriptions:

“The Jay Weber Show” (6:00 am – 9:00 am). The new WISN lineup is built on the same solid foundation as the previous lineup. “The Jay Weber Show” continues its legacy as the highest-rated morning show in Milwaukee, with Jay Weber drawing upon 30+ years of broadcast experience in Milwaukee to offer analysis on the biggest stories of the day, delivered with insight and irreverence.

“The Benjamin Yount Show” (9:00 am – 11:00 am). WISN news director Benjamin Yount retains that title and those duties, while adding an opinion-based analytical show in this late morning slot. For the past several years, Yount has been a primary guest-host on all of WISN’s local programs, and has become known for his candid, no-nonsense perspective.

“Clay Travis and Buck Sexton” (11:00 am – 2:00 pm). Syndicated by the Premiere Radio Networks, Travis and Sexton have amassed the largest radio audience in America, with over 500 affiliates nationwide. Their show tackles the highest profile topics from politics to pop culture, and everything in between.

“The Vicki McKenna Show” (2:00 pm – 3:00 pm). McKenna has been a WISN mainstay since 2007, entertaining and informing listeners with opinions and insights delivered with unparalleled passion. This hour can also be heard in Madison, via simulcast on WIBA-AM.

“The Dan O’Donnell Show” (3:00 pm – 6:00 pm). O’ Donnell takes his top-rated midday show, expands it from two to three hours in length, and moves it to afternoon drive. A former winner of an Edward R. Murrow Award for radio journalism, O’ Donnell blends investigative reporting and hard-hitting commentary with a contemporary style of using audio and the overall radio medium to craft a unique, compelling program that has exploded in popularity.

Mike Gallagher and Hugh Hewitt Fill in for Dennis Prager on the High Seas.  With his Salem Radio Network (SRN) colleague Dennis Prager still sidelined after a serious back injury suffered during a fall last month, talk host Mike Gallagher boarded the Rotterdam – one of Holland America’s newest ships – to pinch hit on a Prager Listener Cruise to Aruba and other Caribbean destinations last week.  SRN’s Hugh Hewitt hosted the first half of the cruise which offered daily in-person presentations for listeners in the ship’s theater. (Ever the showman, Gallagher also entertained Prager listeners with a rendition of the “Guys and Dolls” Broadway hit “Sit Down You’re Rockin’ The Boat.”) Gallaher (pictured above during one of the events onboard) admits, “Dennis’s listeners are so loyal, I initially feared they might make Hugh and me walk the plank, but we had a fantastic time, and it was a great tribute to Dennis on the high seas.”

PodcastOne Officially Launches PodcastOne Pro.  PodcastOne has announced the launch of a full-service solution that specializes in transforming podcasts into polished on-air productions for brands and professionals. PodcastOne Pro offers customizable services, with à la carte options to meet exact production needs, or a full 360° solution.Services include access to top-of-the-line podcasting studios and equipment (audio and video), strategy, program production, editing, guest booking, distribution, paywall options and promotion across PodcastOne’s existing network of podcasts. “As the only public pure-play podcast company in the United States, PodcastOne is uniquely positioned to help brands, businesses and content creators reach their target audiences more effectively while keeping loyal podcast listeners entertained and engaged,” said Jim Lally, head of business development for PodcastOne. “Branded podcasts are financially and logistically challenging for many companies to produce in-house. With the official launch of PodcastOne Pro, we’re able to offer a tailored podcast production solution to our clients that leverages our current infrastructure, which ultimately, drives higher margins, diversifies our revenue streams, and lowers costs for clients.”  Coinciding with the launch of PodcastOne Pro, PodcastOne is set to debut its new state of the art podcast production studio in Beverly Hills.  To learn more about PodcastOne Pro or get a quote for plans starting at $500, please visit www.podcastonepro.com.

FOX Nation’s sixth annual Patriot Awards ceremony took place last evening in a sold-out event at the Tilles Center for Performing Arts in Brookville, New York on Long Island. Emceed by Long Island native and FOX News Channel’s top-rated primetime host Sean Hannity, the Patriot Awards honor and recognize America’s finest patriots, including military veterans, first responders and other inspirational everyday heroes. President-elect Donald Trump (pictured above) spoke at the event and was honored with the inaugural “Patriot of the Year” award.  Introduced by Hannity, who presented the award, Trump delivered an upbeat address in which he outlined his goals, thanked FOX News and specifically praised Hannity for his friendship and service to the country.

Cumulus Media announced yesterday (12/5) that KCMO 95.7 FM and 710 AM, has added longtime Kansas City broadcaster Kevin Kietzman to the station’s weekday programming lineup with the launch of his new midday show, “Kevin Kietzman Uncanceled.” The program debuted this week and airs on KCMO Monday through Friday from 10:00 am-11:00 am.  Kietzman is a well-known voice in the Midwest, having hosted his highly successful sports/talk radio show in Kansas City for over two decades. He is currently the host of the “Kevin Kietzman Has Issues” podcast, covering Kansas City news, sports, and politics.  Donna Baker, regional VP/MM, Cumulus Kansas City, tells TALKERS, “Under Pete’s leadership, KCMO Talk Radio is one of the fastest growing stations in the Midwest. Kevin’s passion and commitment to his craft make him the perfect fit for the KCMO Talk Radio audience and our client partners.” Pete Mundo, KCMO PD and morning show host, commented: “During my years in Kansas City, we have delivered on our promise, ‘If it’s happening IN KCMO, it’s ON KCMO.’ There are few who have entertained and informed Kansas City listeners for over two decades like Kevin Kietzman. Kevin’s ability to engage fans, whether the topic of today is our Championship sports teams, the local news landscape, national politics, or the pop culture world, make him the ideal addition to KCMO Talk Radio.”  Kevin Kietzman said: “It’s great to be back on radio but even better to be a part of something as exciting as KCMO Talk Radio, now on 95.7 FM. I’ve known Pete Mundo for years and absolutely nobody in KC media works harder or is more dedicated to serving listeners than Pete and the management team at Cumulus Media. It’s a sweet spot to follow his popular morning show where Kansas City listens every day to learn what’s going on throughout Missouri and Kansas.”  Kietzman added: “These are historic times. Americans have spoken loudly that we are a free speech society, we have the most popular sports team in the world in our city, and I can’t wait to be back on air to talk about it all. I look forward to hearing from so many of you that have listened throughout the years. Let’s go!”

SiriusXM announced yesterday (12/5) the launch of the “Women’s Empowerment Network,” a new podcast network executive produced by SiriusXM Urban View host and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Karen Hunter. Launching on Monday, December 9, the “Women’s Empowerment Network” will debut with two new podcasts, with more original content set to premiere in the coming months.  Available on the SiriusXM app and all other major podcast platforms, “The Women’s Empowerment Network” will offer a variety of new original shows, which will feature interviews with influential women from various industries and backgrounds, self-improvement tips, financial advice, mental health discussions, and more news relevant to women’s lives and careers. The network will also spotlight stories of resilience, activism, entrepreneurship, and community, with a focus on uplifting women in all walks of life.  Among the first podcasts to premiere under the network is “Karen Hunter Is Awesome!”, a daily podcast where Hunter dives deep into a wide range of thought-provoking topics. In what she considers a companion piece to her regular Urban View radio show, Hunter will set out to challenge her listeners in new ways, covering everything from Bible prophecy to the purpose of race, and even the latest TV shows and movies, while still delivering her signature blend of intellect and candidness.  Also launching on December 9 is “Financially Speaking,” a daily podcast designed specifically to help women navigate the complex and evolving financial landscape. Hosted by a team of renowned financial experts, including Dr. Tonya Evans (cryptocurrency and intellectual property), Dr. Tisa Silver Canady (financial wellness and student loan debt eradication), Jacquette Timmons (financial behaviorist), and Ruchi Pinniger (financial coach and founder of “Watch Her Prosper”), this podcast will offer listeners practical advice and insights to help them make informed financial decisions and build lasting wealth. “The Women’s Empowerment Network is a destination where women can come together and be heard in ways that are authentic, uplifting, and transformative,” said Karen Hunter. “I’ve always believed in the power of women supporting each other, and I’m excited to have this new platform where we can rise together.”  “Karen has a great talent for identifying emerging voices and building communities through audio,” Dave Gorab, VP/GM of SiriusXM’s talk programming. “I’m excited to see Karen’s vision for a new podcast network thrive while it has a meaningful impact on all who listen.”  In addition to her new podcast, Hunter will continue to host “The Karen Hunter Show” weekdays from 3-6pm ET on Urban View channel 126.