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Industry News

Todd Herman to Host Weekend Show for KVI, Seattle

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Seattle talk radio personality Todd Herman joins Lotus Communications’ conservative news/talk KVI, Seattle as host of the Sunday 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm program. He’ll also provide a commentary feature that will air three-times daily – at 7:15 am, 12:30 pm and 5:15 pm. KVI program director Rick Van Cise tells TALKERS, “Todd is a Northwest favorite and brings a unique take on current events and daily life. We are pleased to have him part of our team.” Previously, Herman hosted his eponymous show on Bonneville’s news/talk KTTH-AM for six years and was part of the “Candy, Mike & Todd” show that aired on Bonneville’s KIRO-FM. Radio America is the syndicator for Todd Herman’s daily show and short form feature.

Industry News

Industry News

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

News Notes

  • Broadcast audio firm Telos Alliance appoints co-CEO Scott Stiefel to the role of CEO, effective immediately. Now running the day-to-day operations of the company, Stiefel will assume the reins from co-CEO Tom Swidarski who will serve on the board of directors as vice chairman and will remain part of the senior leadership team. Telos Alliance founder, Frank Foti remains chairman of the board and continues to lead the Omnia development at the highest level.
  • GCN Nationally syndicated talk radio host Dr. Daliah Wachs is celebrating her 14th anniversary as a radio personality today (1/9). She first went on the air on January 9, 2009 and says she’s excited about the next 14 years!
  • Conan O’Brien’s Team Coco Radio channel heard on SiriusXM presents its first original special on the new channel as O’Brien interviews Neil Young. O’Brien talks with the music icon about his legendary career, his musical influences, and some of his most famous performances.
Industry News

WCHV, Charlottesville to Debut Show Starring Former Virginia Tech Coordinator Bud Foster

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Monticello Media’s WCHV-AM/FM, Charlottesville is partnering with former Virginia Tech defensive coordinator Bud Foster aboard to host a one-hour, regional program that will air Saturday mornings at 11:00. Foster is currently special assistant to athletic director Whit Babcock at Virginia Tech. He served on the football staff for 33 years. Former Virginia radio play-by-play man Mac McDonald will serve as Foster’s co-host and show producer.

Industry News

The Weekend’s Hottest News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy is named House Speaker after 15 rounds of voting; the issue of border security at the U.S.-Mexico border and President Joe Biden’s weekend visit to El Paso; the weekend attacks by Russia’s and Ukraine’s militaries; supporters of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro storm the country’s National Congress and other government buildings; Prince Harry’s 60 Minutes interview; and the California floods were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend.

Industry Views

How Hot Is Podcasting?

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

How hot is podcasting? The topic dominated a CES session billed in broader terms: “The Disruption: Media, Platforms & Advertising.” Panelists – executives from social media, major content brands, and radio mega-groups – also discussed “linear” (live) programming and streaming video. But all kept coming back to podcasting, which iHeartMedia CMO Gayle Troberman characterized as “exploding, driving massive growth in audio.”

Not unexpected, since her company is a major player. But, from the other side of the equation, World Wrestling Entertainment SVP Craig Stimmel acknowledges that, post-pandemic, “habits have changed as to where to go” for media; so “we want to make sure our content is everywhere.” His stars are among celebrities whom podcasting connects with fans in what Troberman describes as “live, human, unscripted conversation with people you come to know;” particularly welcome post-pandemic-shutdown. “The more isolated and alone people feel, the more audio delivers intimacy.”

It’s not a radio show

Every panelist spoke of “authenticity,” rather than the slick, polished texture of traditional AM/FM programming. SXM Media SVP Lizzie Widhelm challenges broadcasters: “How can we let go of our playbook, and walk away from norms that have been comfy-cozy?”

“More creators coming into audio than ever before” from politics, sports, and other walks of life, “to engage more deeply.” Audacy CMO Paul Suchman says that delivers advertisers “super-relevant, contextually relevant” places to tell their stories. So “this is a medium that deserves GREAT creative,” not just audio of a TV spot. “Advertising that gets ‘inserted’” doesn’t work as well as “the deep human connection” of podcaster’s very personal delivery. Thus “the lowest ad-skipping rates of any media.”

Podcasting plusses

Just as music streams offer lots more variety than safe-list FMs, spoken-word podcasting is a topical cornucopia compared to talk radio’s largely political fare.

And panelists ticked-off other advantages podcasts offer advertisers:

  • “Quicker and much less-expensive production than video.”
  • “Lower CPM” ad rates, increasingly attractive as recession likely looms.
  • “Really young, and diverse audiences coming into audio in a big way.”
  • “The audiences you’re not getting on TV anymore.”

“Voice has always been how humans communicate”

Troberman describes the iHeart app Talkback feature, which listeners use to send messages stations play, a tool some of my client stations have built-into their apps.

And this interactivity isn’t just a media thing. Audacy’s Suchman mentioned how drivers now converse with Cadillac’s state-of-the-art dashboard: “The next phase of computing will be voice-driven.” Yet – accustomed as we have become to dealing with supermarket self-checkout and other robots almost everywhere – the “intimacy,” “authenticity,” and “diversity” panelists speak of suggest that, as iHeart’s Troberman reckons, “the future of voice is the future of two-way communication via audio.”

Help yourself!

I’ve been reporting from CES all this week for TALKERS…and for you. You can download five 60-second radio reports at HollandCooke.com.

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

Industry News

This Week’s Hottest News/Talk Media Topics

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

According to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine, the most-talked-about story in news/talk media for the week of January 2 – 6, 2023 was the turmoil surrounding U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy’s bid to become House Speaker. At #2 this week was former President Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP tied with his ongoing legal issues, followed by the case of incoming U.S. Rep George Santos (R-NY) on the heels of his fabricated curriculum vitae 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 of the top 10 stories here.

Industry Views

Valerie Geller to Present Free Webinar Titled “Never Be Boring”

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Media consultant Valerie Geller – president of Geller Media International – is presenting a free seminar for radio and audio salespeople called, “Never Be Boring.” Geller says the four things that participants will learn are: 1) the three mistakes salespeople make, 2) how you can communicate more effectively, 3) how to tell your story and help clients tell their stories, and 4) how to never be boring. You can get more information and register here.

Industry News

New England Public Media Brings Monte Belmonte Aboard for New Radio Show and Podcast

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

New England Public Media tells TALKERS that it is hiring Western Massachusetts morning personality Monte Belmonte as host and executive producer of a new radio show and podcast “celebrating life in Western Massachusetts.” Belmonte has been hosting “Mornings with Monte” at Saga Communications’ triple A WRSI, Turners Falls, MA “93.9 The River.” Also joining Belmonte at NEPM is Kaliis Smith, who served as evening personality at WRSI and served as a regular guest on Belmonte’s show. With NEPM, Smith will be the show’s digital producer and will join Belmonte on air.

NEPM president Matt Abramovitz says, “When you listen to Monte Belmonte, you hear not only a great host with a devotion to his craft, but also a person who is committed to building and bolstering his community. Sharing the unique voices and stories of our region and using the airwaves for the common good is what public media is all about. We are excited to have Monte bring his enthusiasm and love of western Massachusetts to NEPM each day.” The programming will launch later this winter. Belmonte comments, “I’ve been a huge fan of New England Public Media since I moved west of Worcester 20 years ago. The station’s trusted reputation and broad reach was a big draw for me, as was the opportunity to work alongside people I’ve known and admired for years. I’m excited to get to work building a new show that’s all about celebrating what’s good about living here, meeting interesting neighbors and being a better community because of it.”

Industry News

Wednesday’s Hottest News/Talk Media Topics

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

According to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine, the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media on January 4 were: the machinations behind U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy’s ongoing bid to be Speaker of the House for the 118th Congress; special counsel Jack Smith’s investigation into former President Donald Trump’s alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 election results and his keeping of classified documents at Mar-a-Lago; the health status of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin, the NFL’s rescheduling quandary and the issue of player safety in the NFL; the migrant problem at the U.S.-Mexico border and in Florida; the Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and President Joe Biden’s willingness to supply Ukraine with Bradley fighting vehicles; concerns about the new XBB Covid variant; the coming release of Prince Harry’s book; and the extreme weather hitting California.

Industry News

KFI, Los Angeles Makes New Year Program Schedule Changes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Los Angeles news/talk giant KFI adjusted its program schedule that took effect this week. The iHeartMedia station didn’t issue a press release but the station’s website reveals the following changes: Bill Handel’s morning drive show is airing from 6:00 am to 9:00 am – following Jennifer Jones Lee’s “Wake Up Call” that airs from 5:00 am to 6:00 am; “Gary & Shannon” air from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm; the “John & Ken” program moves from its longtime afternoon drive slot to the 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm slot while evening host Tim Conway Jr. moves to the 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm daypart; and weekend talk host Mo’Kelly moves into the 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm slot. Premiere Networks’ “Coast to Coast AM” with George Noory is heard in the late-night slot.

Industry News

iHeartMedia Unveils New Deals for Voice Assistant and Automotive App Integrations

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The company reveals five new integrations for the iHeartRadio digital audio app. Two of these are with electric vehicle companies Fisker Auto and VinFast as the iHeartRadio app will be included in the infotainment systems of those companies’ cars. Mobility AI firm Cerence teams with iHeartRadio to provide voice recognition for the app in vehicles while Native Voice – an on-demand voice assistant library that enables users to communicate directly by voice – collaborates with iHeartRadio for voice recognition to access content. Also, iHeartRadio is now integrated into the TomTom Digital Cockpit for seamless use on the vehicle display.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Hottest News/Talk Media Topics

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

House Speaker Stalemate, Damar Hamlin Status, Border Security, Abortion Pill Ruling, Russia-Ukraine War, New Covid Variant, and Extreme Weather are among the top News/Talk stories yesterday (1/3). U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy’s thrice-failed bid to be Speaker of the House for the 118th Congress; the health status of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin, the NFL’s rescheduling quandary and the issue of player safety in the NFL; the migrant problem at the U.S.-Mexico border and in Florida; the FDA finalizes rules to allow the abortion pill to be available at retail pharmacies; the Ukrainian attack on a makeshift Russian base that killed possibly hundreds of soldiers; concerns about the new XBB Covid variant; and the extreme weather in California and other parts of the country were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry Views

2023 and Beyond:
Radio Going Forward

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

During a virtual meeting of the TALKERS editorial board over the holiday break, Michael Harrison outlined a simple prescription for radio to thrive in 2023 and beyond.  Updating an ongoing message that he’s delivered several times in recent years at industry conventions, the trade journal’s founder stated that in order for radio to survive – let alone thrive – in the ever-changing digital era, it must provide the absolute best audio communications available anywhere.

Harrison explained, “Broadway has to provide the absolute best live theater experience in the nation for people to go put up with the cost and hassle of attending. Professional sports leagues must produce a product better than sandlot for people to continually take notice. Hollywood must produce the best movies for people to actual go back to the cinema or pay for streaming.  Real news organizations have to be more credible, reliable and factual than some guy on a computer in his parents’ basement.   In turn, radio must ooze the definition of ‘big time’ through the speakers when it comes to the presentation of audio communications.  The medium and its industry cannot afford on any level – local or national – to be schlock. I don’t care if there are 10 zillion podcasts out there – other than the specialty ones that target extremely limited and niche audiences – the cream of the crop will always come down to a rarified handful.”  According to Harrison, radio has to be “the big-time audio medium with the best information, personalities, talk shows, musical presentation and production values or it will surely perish in the face of the growing onslaught of grassroots digital media.” He concludes, “Only then can it restore the magic and prestige to the word ‘radio’ that has kept the medium alive for the past 100 years – regardless of its current technological platforms or receiving appliances. To use a popular sports phrase, radio controls its own destiny.”

Industry News

WTOP, Washington, DC Debuts New Morning Team

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

All-news WTOP-FM, Washington, DC unveils its new morning drive anchor team as Michelle Basch and John Aaron begin hosting the program that airs from 5:00 am to 10:00 am. Basch and Aaron take over for Bruce Alan and Joan Jones, who exited the station after taking the voluntary buyout from owner Hubbard Broadcasting. Basch has been with the station since joining in 2006 as a reporter, and Aaron started his career with WTOP in 2007. Basch comments, “After years of working as part of WTOP’s wonderful night crew, I am so lucky to get the opportunity to help Washingtonians wake up and get informed every weekday morning. The fact that I’m teaming up with John – a really nice guy whose work I’ve always admired – makes it even more exciting!” Aaron adds, “It’s truly surreal to now be anchoring weekday mornings for the station I grew up listening to. I look forward to spending more mornings with our listeners, bringing them the important news of the day and having some fun along the way.” WTOP director of news and programming Julia Ziegler states, “Michelle and John bring years of experience and incredible news judgment to mornings. They are both so excited to bring their passion for news to morning drive. Our listeners are in good hands with John and Michelle.”

Industry News

Syndicated Host Rob Carson Debuts on ‘The Pulse of New Hampshire’ Network

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Newsmax Radio’s “The Rob Carson Show” begins airing live today (1/3) on Binnie Media’s multi-signal network of news/talk stations branded “The Pulse of New Hampshire.” Carson’s program airs from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm on WTSN-FM, Dover; WTPL-FM, Hillsborough; WEMJ-FM, Laconia; as well as two HD2 signals. Newsmax says the network reaches a combined population of nearly a million listeners. Newsmax Radio CEO Lee Kinberg says, “I know firsthand the power of Binnie Media’s talk stations and we look forward to working with their great team and bringing Rob Carson to one of the most politically influential audiences in the country.” Binnie Media VP of programming Michael Czarnecki comments, “In the world of talk radio, we find so much of the same programming. We are thrilled at the addition of Rob Carson as this move, along with the recent addition of ‘America at Night’, and the rest of our dynamic lineup, make for a unique form of talk radio. Offering educated discussions and different perspectives on the topics of each day.” Carson’s program is now airing in 16 rated markets. In addition to the radio show and podcast, “Rob Carson’s What in the World,” a humorous review of the week’s news, airs every weekend on Newsmax TV.

Industry News

Louisiana Talk Host Moon Griffon Joins WBRP-FM, Baton Rouge for Late Mornings

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Talk radio pro Moon Griffon begins hosting the 9:00 am to 11:00 am talk show on Guaranty Media’s news/talk WBRP-FM, Baton Rouge “Talk 107.3” today (1/3). Guaranty Media VP and general manager Gordy Rush states, “We are excited to add Moon Griffon to the ‘Talk 107.3’ weekday lineup and increase the amount of local programming. The Hayride calls Moon Griffon the state’s ‘most prominent talk host,’ and we think the timing is perfect with the upcoming elections in 2023.” Griffon’s addition to the lineup forces some changes with the “FOX News Rundown” moving to a 4:00 am start and FOX News Radio’s “The Brian Kilmeade Show” airing from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. WBRP morning host and program director Brian Haldane adds, “With Moon’s voice and opinions on Louisiana politics, it just makes sense for him to be on in the Capital City. This means we’ll be covering Louisiana for five straight hours from 6:00 am to 11:00 am every weekday morning.”

Industry News

St. Louis News Pro Larry Conners Joins NewsTalkSTL

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Next Monday (1/9), St. Louis market television and radio personality Larry Conners joins Gateway Creative Broadcasting’s conservative talk simulcast KNBS-FM, Bowling Green; K270BW, Bellefontaine; and KLJY-HD2, Clayton to host “The Larry Conners USA Daily Report” airing at 6:00 pm nightly. Additionally, the station will air “The Conners Commentary” feature at 12:03 pm, and 3:30 pm. Conners says, “The fabric of my journalistic soul still requires that I am fair, but now, I freely express my opinions. I am thrilled to join the ‘NewsTalkSTL’ family and be part of the city’s newest and fastest-growing radio station.” Conners anchored St. Louis television news broadcasts from 1975 to 2014 before making the move to radio. Station president of programming Jeff Allen says, “This is the first, major change to our weekday line up since signing on a year and a half ago. That speaks to how significant we feel adding Larry is. Larry Conners is a strong, local, conservative voice that needs to be heard.”

Industry Views

PENDING BUSINESS – Hello New Year

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

 
By Steve Lapa
President
Lapcom Communications Corp.

The calendar has officially changed. Hopefully your checks will start saying 2023 and it’s time to dig in and get back to work. Wait, does anyone still write checks? For sure your Q1 plan is complete and ready for action.

Let’s look at the first two major events in Q1, as each represents sales opportunities for virtually every radio format.

The Super Bowl is in five weeks. You don’t need to be selling sports talk radio or the gameday play-by-play to capitalize on the most-viewed sporting event in the media. The audience numbers connected to this event are now legendary. Nearly 1 billion viewers watched the 10 highest-rated TV broadcasts of the Super Bowl. As we sell the value and results of radio/audio, the TV numbers simply support the social impact of the event. Whether your radio station will broadcast the game or not, there is a sales opportunity for the seller pitching the right package to the right advertiser. This year the competition for local ad dollars will be heightened as we deal with inflation, recession, and lingering supply chain issues. The traditional “bars and cars,” big screen TV sales and even gameday gear-up may all be impacted at the local advertiser level. Sharpen your pencil and package creatively with all assets on board.

Valentine’s Day in six weeks. We are projected to spend nearly $ 24 billion on Valentine’s Day – or about $175 per person. That puts Valentine’s Day neck-and-neck with Mother’s Day. So, wining and dining, flowers, jewelry, spa day, greeting cards, gift certificates, it’s all part of this great tradition that has defined February for nearly 1,600 years. Yes, you can go back to the Romans for the first celebration. For sure the Romans had a way to promote the Valentine’s Day festivals that spread the word far and wide leading to the traditions we have today. The sales opportunity connected to Valentine’s Day is a simple four step process:

1. Cover the traditional categories.
2. Open your thinking to new opportunities.
3. Be ready to respond to “We sell out, anyway.”
4. Full asset packaging.

Getting back in the saddle and regaining your sales rhythm may take a few cranks of the engine. But like riding a bike, the muscle memory kicks in and before you know it, you’re coasting again. Happy Selling!

Steve Lapa is the president of Lapcom Communications Corp. based in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Lapcom is a media sales, marketing, and development consultancy. Contact Steve Lapa via email at: Steve@Lapcomventures.com

Industry News

Nationally Syndicated Talk Host Wayne Allyn Root Named to Best-Dressed List

By TALKERS | by TALKERS


Pictured here is USA Radio nationally syndicated talk radio host Wayne Allyn Root showing off the style that has named to the 14th Annual International Best Dressed List. He joins other notables on this year’s list including Melania Trump, President Joe Biden, and new Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Root’s style was described as “former President Donald Trump’s New York-style of dressing meets Vegas flair!”

Industry News

Past Weekend: Top News/Talk Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

New Congress/McCarthy Speaker Bid, U.S. Rep. Santos, Trump Tax Releases, Border Security, Russia-Ukraine War, COVID XBB Subvariant, Idaho Murders Case, and Winter Storms were among the top news/talk stories discussed over the weekend. Today’s beginning of the 118th Congress and Republican Kevin McCarthy’s bid to become House Speaker; the case of incoming freshman U.S. Rep. George Santos who’s admitted to falsehoods on his curriculum vitae; the release of former President Donald Trump’s tax returns by the outgoing Democrat-controlled House; the state illegal immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border; the latest escalation in the Russia-Ukraine war; concerns about the new COVID Omicron subvariant XBB; the arrest of Bryan Kohberger in connection with the deaths of four Idaho college students; and the winter storms affection much of the U.S. were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Wednesday, November 16, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

WPHT, Philadelphia Midday Star Dom Giordano is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. The “Dean of Philadelphia Talk Radio,” Dom Giordano is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Giordano is a former public school teacher considered one of the media’s leading advocates for education and activists for education reform. He has also been an outspoken voice of reason in the conversation about Philadelphia’s alarming crime, drug and homelessness problems. Harrison and moderate conservative Giordano take a deep-dive into these topics in addition to discussing fascinating post-midterms Pennsylvania politics as well as the strong possibility that the GOP and news/talk radio are approaching a major fork in the road regarding their support of baggage-laden Donald Trump versus rising new Republican stars such as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation! To listen to the podcast in its entirety please click here.

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Skippy Leaves KMJ-AM/FM Fresno After Three Years Co-Hosting Afternoons. The Fresno Bee reports that Frances Echeverria – a.k.a. Skippy (right) – has left Cumulus Media’s news/talk KMJ-AM/FM, Fresno. After leaving alternative rock KFRR-FM’s morning show in 2019, she joined KMJ-AM/FM to host the afternoon drive show alongside Philip Teresi (left). But on Friday (11/11), she announced that she’s retiring from radio. She told her audience, “The station has meant more for me personally that I can ever explain.” Echeverria called the change a lifestyle change, as much as a career change. The Bee notes that she wrote in a post on the website, “I didn’t want to do radio anymore. It wasn’t that it was bad. In fact, the chemistry with my partner was continually evolving into something better. I had good bosses. I felt like I was making a difference, whatever that means. Working there made me smarter. And yet I was done. Deep in my heart and down in my soul. Done.” Echeverria also works as a therapist and is a professor at Fresno State.

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FOX News Media Extends Deal with Mark Levin. Talk media personality Mark Levin and FOX News Media agree to an extension of Levin’s current multi-year deal in which he’ll remain host of “Life, Liberty & Levin” that airs Sunday nights at 8:00 pm ET on FOX News Channel. Levin says, “FOX News Channel and I are extending my show. Suzanne Scott trusted that I could do a show and I want to thank her and her team and all the folks in between who’ve supported this. I want to thank you. I want to thank FOX. I want to thank my family.” FOX News Media says “Life, Liberty & Levin” is the second highest-rated cable news program on weekends, averaging 1.7 million viewers on Sundays at 8:00 pm for 2022 to date. “With Levin at its helm, the show’s total audience almost triples CNN’s programming in the timeslot and nearly quadruples MSNBC’s total and A25-54 demo viewership. In October 2022, the program earned 1.6 million viewers and 127,000 in the demo, making it the number one program in weekend primetime programming.”

WNYC Produces Podcast Series Titled ‘The Divided Dial’ That Focuses on Salem Media Group. The latest news organization to present a report on news/talk radio is WNYC. In this case, the project from WNYC Studio’s On The Media is a five-part podcast titled, “The Divided Dial,” that “charts the growth of broadcasting company Salem Media Group.” WNYC says Salem is “a once small, conservative Christian radio network that quietly expanded their reach in far-right media through the hard to monitor, difficult to fact check, and minimally scrutinized medium of talk radio. With holdings of over 100 radio stations (many in the top 25 markets) and shows syndicated to over 3,000 stations across the country, the series uncovers how Salem exerts influence behind many conservative figures in America — while receiving considerably less media attention than other far-right news sources. The series also puts Salem’s growth in the context of nearly nine decades of radio history, illuminating how conservative dominance of the airwaves was aided by long-term regulatory erosion and strategic pressure from the right.” The project is reported and hosted by Katie Thornton and includes conversations with scholars, journalists, and media experts, as well as a “rare on-the-record” interview with Salem SVP Phil Boyce. You can find the first podcast in the series here.

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LABF Celebrates ‘Industry Trailblazers’ at ‘Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts’ Event. The 2022 Library of American Broadcasting Foundation’s “Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts” event took place last night (11/15) at Gotham Hall in New York. The annual event was hosted by ABC News’ “Nightline” co-anchor Juju Chang and celebrated “distinguished individuals who have – for the past century – been the creators, innovators, journalists, leaders, performers, and producers that have brought the electronic arts to the prominence they occupy in the United States and the world today, and who have set the stage for the future.” Net proceeds from the event will benefit the Library of American Broadcasting collection located at the University of Maryland and support LABF awards for students and scholarly works about the history of broadcasting and their impact on American society and culture. Pictured above are: (standing, l-r) Chang; Jack Goodman, LABF co-chair; Adam Symson, president & CEO, E.W. Scripps; Bob Pittman, chairman & CEO, iHeartMedia; Pete Williams, justice correspondent, NBC News (ret.); Sean McManus, chairman, CBS Sports; Joyce Tudryn, IRTS president & CEO; Heidi Raphael, LABF co-chair; Fareed Zakaria, CNN anchor, author, columnist, The Washington Post; (sitting l-r) Alex Prud’homme; Deb McDermott, CEO, Standard Media Group; S. Epatha Merkerson, actress; and Bud Walters, president, Cromwell Media. Photo: Wendy Moger-Bross

TALKERS News Notes. A new content distribution deal between VSiN, The Sports Betting Network and Gow Media will put VSiN’s longform sports betting shows and Brent Musburger’s one minute “Action Updates” on Gow Media’s SportsMap network. VSiN says it expects the deal to more than double its terrestrial radio affiliates. Gow Media CEO David Gow says, “We are thrilled to be working with VSiN. VSiN has set the standard for sports gambling content. Through this content distribution deal, we will bring together some of the most influential personalities in sports radio to entertain and inform our combined audiences.” VSiN founder and CEO Brian Musberger adds, “David Gow has created a powerhouse in the U.S. radio industry, and we couldn’t be more excited to be his choice to deliver real-time sports betting news, analysis and insights to the growing SportsMap radio audience.”…..CNN Audio announces that Matt Martinez joins the network as showrunner for “The Assignment with Audie Cornish” – CNN’s newest weekly podcast premiering tomorrow (11/17). Previously, Martinez was a senior producer at On Being Studios, producing radio shows and podcasts for “On Being with Krista Tippett.” He was also the director of content at KNKX Public Radio in Tacoma.

Colorful Radio Station Owner Michael Zwerling Announces That He Is Offering Heritage Talker KSCO, Santa Cruz for Sale. According to an extensive article published by the Times Publishing Group, Inc. of California’s Central Coast (and an advertising campaign in TALKERS) legendary broadcasting industry owner and personality Michael “MZ” Zwerling is offering KSCO and associated properties for sale after a 31-year stint at the operation’s helm. The article states, Michael Zwerling has been in love with KSCO since he was a high school kid broadcasting Santa Cruz High On The Air in the mid-1960s. As the station owner since 1991, he’s created a radio station that’s a voice for pretty much everyone. But now, at 71 — his birthday was Nov. 9 — he has a new love in his life, Amy Hao, co-host of the “China Watch” show on KSCO and a veteran traveler, and he wants to spend his time traveling with her. The couple, who met in 2019, are “totally into free speech,” Zwerling said. They recently returned from a two-week safari in Africa. “Amy’s not happy unless she’s traveling, and she wants to take me to all these places,” Zwerling said. That’s why he’s looking for a buyer for KSCO 1080 AM and its FM translators, along with sister station KOMY 1340, and the one-acre of flat land at 2300 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, overlooking Corcoran Lagoon. The asking price is $1.5 million cash for the two radio stations and the broadcasting business. The asking price is $6 million cash for the property, which includes the Art Deco studio building, garage, parking lot, concrete event patio, plus the three broadcast towers in the lagoon, which give the 10-kilowatt station the power of a 50-kilowatt station on dry land, according to Zwerling. To read the entire story, please click here. Photo: KSCO GM Michael Olson standing in front of KSCO’s historic Art Deco studios along Silicon Beach in Santa Cruz, CA. Times Publishing Group.

Trump Announces ’24 Bid, Midterms Aftermath, The Economy/FTX Collapse, Immigration, Abortion, Biden-Xi Meeting, G-20/Russia-Ukraine War, Trump Org Trial, and NASA’s Artemis Launches Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (11/15). Former President Donald Trump announces his run for president in 2024; the aftermath of the midterm elections, including the Republicans’ expected control over the U.S. House and Rick Scott’s challenging Mitch McConnell as top Republican in the U.S. Senate; the rate of inflation, concerns about a recession, and the collapse of cryptocurrency exchange FTX; a judge halts the use of Title 42 to expel migrants from the U.S.; Georgia’s strict abortion ban is struck down in court; the meeting between President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping; the G-20 summit in Bali, Indonesia and its condemnation of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine; former Trump Org CFO Allen Weisselberg testifies at the company’s fraud trial; and NASA launches its Artemis rocket that re-boots the U.S. moon program were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

 

The Radio Sales Arena is Changing and We Are On the Leading Edge. The key to sales growth in radio going forward is multi-platform digital marketing. In the coming decade, “radio” will simply be the engine driving an increasingly complex and sophisticated array of digitally powered platforms creating endless packages and options for the advertiser. The keys to success will be in branding that cuts through the noise and surgical targeting that delivers optimum efficiency for agencies that know exactly what they want. The Salem Media Group is leading the way and the opportunities for our sales team are endless. But, right now, we need that special individual who has the tools, the vision and the ambition to get it done. That one special person who truly “gets it.” Jerry Crowley, the longest-running GM in the nation’s largest market, says, “We want one outstanding seller who can take it to the moon! Compensation will reflect potential and performance – salary will range from 50k- 85k plus substantial bonuses and generous commissions.” Candidates should send cover letter and resume to Jerry Crowley, VP/GM, Salem Media Group, NY (WMCA 570am The Mission/WNYM 970am The Answer) at Jcrowley@nycradio.com.

Sales

Pending Business: When the Crystal Ball Is Foggy

By Editor | by Editor

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

 

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — Its seems the current economic cycle is being driven by a sweeping round of cutbacks and strategic business re-focus now moving into the mainstream.

From Disney and Meta (parent of Facebook) to Walmart, the pressure is on to deliver positive performance in a cloudy economy. In plain English, it’s time to cut costs and push suppliers to share the pain. Yet prices continue to go up. Maybe it’s the fault of COVID’s unpredictable economic impact or some international collusion, or better yet, just a plain old foggy crystal ball in the CEO’s office. My vote is all of the above. But what does any of this have to do with your day-to-day sales? The short answer is: Everything.

(more…)

Front Page News Industry News

Wednesday, November 9, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Townsquare Media’s 2022 Third Quarter Net Revenue Soars 8.4%. Third quarter net revenue was $120.6 million – an increase of 8.4% over the same period in 2021. Townsquare Media reveals in its 2022 Q3 financial report that net income for the quarter decreased $10.1 million to $2.8 million, as compared to $12.9 million in the same period in 2021, primarily driven by non-cash impairment charges to the company’s FCC licenses of $10.3 million. Townsquare Media breaks its financial reports in to three operating segments. For the third quarter of this year, Digital Advertising net revenue increased $6.5 million, or 21.3%; Subscription Digital Marketing Solutions net revenue increased $2.1 million, or 9.7%, as compared to the same period in 2021 due in part to the addition of approximately 850 additional net subscribers during the third quarter of 2022; and Broadcast Advertising net revenue increased $2 million, or 3.4%, compared to Q3 of 2021. Townsquare CEO Bill Wilson comments, “I am proud to report another record setting quarter of results that clearly demonstrate the undeniable success and differentiation of Townsquare’s transformation into a Digital First Local Media company. The Townsquare team reached all-time Q3 highs with net revenue growth of 8% year-over-year, and Adjusted EBITDA growth of 6% year-over-year, meeting our Q3 guidance. In addition, net leverage declined to an all-time low of 4.54x as we continue to make progress towards our 4x net leverage target. Our growth engine has been and will continue to be our digital solutions, which were the primary driver of our third quarter growth, accounting for half of Townsquare’s total revenue and total profit. Total digital revenue increased 17% year-over-year in the third quarter, and trailing 12-month digital revenue grew to $225 million. As a uniquely positioned Digital First Local Media Company focused principally on markets outside of the top 50 in the United States, Townsquare has a resilient digital growth engine supported by both a recurring subscription digital marketing solutions business, with a large addressable market and limited competition, and a highly differentiated digital advertising technology platform.”

Ramsey Solutions to Give Free Finance Course to 1,000 Veterans in Recognition of Veterans Day. In honor of Veterans Day this Friday (11/11), Dave Ramsey announces that he is giving away access to his company’s Financial Peace University for 1,000 veterans on “The Ramsey Show.” Ramsey Solutions says the nine-lesson digital personal finance course has helped millions take control of their money for 30 years. Veterans who enter their information on the company’s website and are selected, will be able to join a class in-person or go online to watch videos on-demand as they learn the fastest way to pay off debt, save for emergencies and invest for the future. Military members list financial troubles among their top stressors. In the first 90 days of working the FPU plan, the average household pays off $5,300 of debt and saves $2,700 for emergencies.

KFI, Los Angeles Set to Begin 12th Annual Pastathon with SoCal Wendy’s Restaurants Joining the Cause. The annual KFI Pastathon charity event that encourages listeners to donate money, pasta, and sauce to benefit Caterina’s Club gets underway on Tuesday (11/15) and includes new partner Wendy’s restaurants in Southern California. The iHeartMedia news/talk station says that Caterina’s Club provides more than 25,000 nutritious meals every week to children in need in Southern California. The charity also helps families get back into stable home environments and teaches teens the skills they need to work in the hospitality industry. This year, all 168 Wendy’s restaurants in Southern California will offer their customers a donation option from November 16 through December 4.  In addition, on November 29, ‘Giving Tuesday,’ these Wendy’s will also donate $1 from every Frosty sold to the KFI PastaThon. With the help of listeners, local businesses, and the continued partnership with Smart & Final stores and Barilla Pasta, the 2021 event raised a record-breaking $1 million dollars and 115,000 lbs of pasta and sauce. Since 2010, the KFI PastaThon event has raised over $4.6 million and 700,000 pounds of pasta and sauce for children in need in the community. KFI program director Robin Bertolucci states, “We are so delighted to have Wendy’s partner with us on our efforts to feed Southern California kids. Because of generous partners like Wendy’s, Chef Bruno is feeding over 25,000 kids every week. As we embark upon our 12th annual KFI PastaThon we know the need is bigger than ever but so are the hearts of our listeners and partners. Our goal this year is to once again raise over a million dollars.  Thank you to Wendy’s for helping us make that dream a reality!”

Radio and Podcast Power Session Being Made Available for Colleges & Universities. The Library of American Broadcasting Foundation (LABF), in partnership with Benztown, the University of Maryland and the Broadcast Education Association (BEA), are creating a produced 90-minute, on-demand recorded Zoom video session focused on radio and podcasting for colleges and universities utilizing the LABF collection. The LABF Radio and Podcasting Power Session initiative, led by LABF board members Dave “Chachi” Denes – Benztown president – and BEA executive director Heather Birks, features University of Maryland reference specialist Michael Henry hosting a virtual walk-through of the library, followed by an insightful conversation about the vast collection highlighting incredible moments in U.S. history captured through the eyes and voice of television and radio broadcasters. Additionally, industry professionals from across different disciplines of the podcasting and radio business, including radio executive Mike McVay along with Benztown’s R Dub! from “Sunday Night Slow Jams”, Darren Silva and MJ Bloch, Tom Green, Susan Aksu, Beasley Media Group chief revenue officer Tina Murley and other experts speak to the students about the many career opportunities available to them in the industry. Denes says, “Everyone involved with this program is passionate about radio and podcasting. It’s an absolute honor to be able to share our knowledge with students that will someday be leading the industry.” The initiative initially launched as a semester-long course with Clark Atlanta University in 2021. The school is the first to utilize the 2022 90-minute abridged class-offering. It will be available to colleges and universities.

TALKERS News Notes. A new deal between Cumulus Media’s news/talk WLS-AM and Motor Racing Network will have the station airing the NASCAR Cup Series beginning in 2023. This three-year pact comes on the heels of the news that the City of Chicago has signed a three-year deal with NASCAR as the home of the first-ever Chicago Street Race. The unprecedented 12-turn, 2.2-mile Chicago Street Race will take the Cup Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series past and through many of Chicago’s most renowned downtown landmarks during Fourth of July Weekend, July 1-2, 2023. WLS program director Stephanie Tichenor says, “We are thrilled to be the new Chicago radio home of NASCAR and we look forward to growing this new partnership as we gear up for the first-ever Chicago Street Race next summer – and what promises to be an unforgettable Fourth of July weekend.”…..SiriusXM announces the launch of a new original comedy channel, Team Coco Radio. Executive produced by Conan O’Brien, the channel will feature exclusive audio content as well as select Team Coco podcasts, including the popular “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend.” The channel debuts on November 15. Subscribers can hear the biggest interviews and the funniest stand-up moments from Conan’s iconic TBS show, as well as select Team Coco podcasts, including “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend,” plus “Inside Conan” and “Conan O’Brien Needs a Fan.” Fresh commentary from Conan will also be weaved throughout the programming, as he recalls funny behind-the-scenes stories and other entertaining and insightful anecdotes.

Midterms/Trump’s 2024 Aspirations, The Economy, China COVID Lockdowns, Meta Layoffs/Twitter Chaos, January 6 Cases, Russia-Ukraine War, Powerball Jackpot, and Tropical Storm Nicole Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (11/8). Tuesday’s midterm elections, the battle for control of Congress combined with former President Donald Trump’s expected announcement he’ll run in 2024; inflation and fears of a recession; the COVID lockdowns in China and their effect on the global supply chain; Facebook parent Meta to lay off 11,000 workers and Elon Musk’s mercurial leadership of Twitter; the trials of Oath Keepers for seditious conspiracy relative to the January 6 Capitol attack; Russia’s attack on Ukrainian infrastructure; a ticket for the record $2 billion Powerball jackpot sells in California; and Florida braces for Tropical Storm Nicole were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

October 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

By Editor | by Editor

October 2022 PPM Data – Information for the October 2022 survey period has been released for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.

Nielsen Audio’s October 2022 sweep covered September 15 – October 12.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are September 2022 – October 2022 (6+).

The NHL season began October 7; NHL and NFL flagships are noted where applicable.

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media-operated KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 4.2 – 4.9, +.7, eighth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” 2.5 – 2.9, +.4, #16 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas-owned KUT 5.7 – 5.9, +.2, third to second

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media-operated adult hits KBPA, tenth month in a row, 9.8 – 10.6, +.8

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: hot AC KGSR (+1.1)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: country KASE (-1.4)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 8.8 – 9.1, +.3, first

Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, repeats at #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 2.0 – 2.5, +.5, #13 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 7.4 – 7.9, +.5, anchored in the runner-up slot

Number One 6+: news/talk WTKK, second month in a row, 8.8 – 9.1, +.3

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: urban AC WQOK (+.8)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WRAL (-1.1)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Urban One’s WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 9.9 – 8.8, -1.1, continues in the runner-up slot

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” (Colts) 2.2 – 2.5, +.3, repeats at #12

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” .3 – .5, +.2, #20 to #19

Audacy’s WXNT “CBS Sports 1430” .5, #19 (did not appear in September 2022)

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 4.1 – 3.9, -.2, stays in tenth-place

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK, tenth successive month, 11.2 – 12.0, +.8

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: rhythmic CHR WHHH (+1.4)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease (Tie): news/talk WIBC and jazz-classical WICR (-1.1)

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 9.6 – 10.6, +1.0 second to first

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” 10.0 – 8.1, -1.9, first to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” (Green Bay Packers) 1.3 – 2.1, +.8, #15 to #14

Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” 1.2 – 1.1, -.1, repeats at #16

iHeartMedia’s WOKY “The Big 920” .6 – .8, +.2, #22 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM flat at 4.1, ninth to tenth

Wisconsin Educational Communications Board’s WHAD 1.0 – .8, -.2, #17 to #18

Number One 6+: news/talk WISN, first month, 9.6 – 10.6, +1.0

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: rock WHQG (+1.3)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: news/talk WTMJ (-1.9)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 5.9 – 5.0, -.9, sixth to ninth

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 1.6 – 1.5, -.1, repeats at #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” (Tennessee Titans) 6.1 – 7.9, +1.8, fifth to second

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) .9 – 1.2, +.3, steady at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 5.4 – 4.3, -1.1, #9 to #11

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult hits WCJK, tenth month in a row, 9.0 – 8.3, -.7

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk WGFX (+1.8)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WPLN-FM (-1.1)

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 5.5 – 6.4, +.9, sixth to fifth

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” flat at .4, unchanged at #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Bruins, New England Patriots) 3.7 – 4.7, +1.0, eighth to seventh

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 3.2 – 2.7, -.5, ninth to tenth

Cumulus Media’s WPRV “790 The Score” flat at .1, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 2.7 – 3.1, +.4, #11 to #9

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 2.8 – 2.6, -.2, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia rock WHJY, ninth straight month, 9.8 – 8.7, -1.1

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WNBH (+1.7)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WWBB (-1.2)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 4.1 – 5.0, +.9, ninth to seventh

News: iHeartMedia-owned WNOH “BIN 105.3 Because Truth Matters” .6 – .4, -.2, repeats at #20

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.9 – 2.3, +.4, #15 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, tenth month in succession, 9.2 – 9.7, +.5

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: urban contemporary WOWI (+2.2)*

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: adult hits WNOB (-1.3)

*Represents the largest September 2022 – October 2022 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 7.8 – 7.9 +.1, fourth to third

News: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 2.5 – 3.0, +.5, continues at #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia country WQIK, fourth consecutive month, 11.5 – 10.6, -.9

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase:  gospel WKSL-HD3 (+.8)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: country WQIK (-.9)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 2.2 – 2.3 +.1, eighth to ninth and cluster-mate WJNO “News Radio 1290” flat at 1.3,  #11 to #12

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” .9 – .6, -.3, #14 to #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” (Florida Panthers) .5 – .6, +.1, #16 to #15

iHeartMedia-owned WBZT “Sports Radio 1230 The Gambler” flat at .2, repeats at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 3.8 – 3.4, -.4, anchored in seventh-place

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF, tenth month in succession, 10.5 – 8.9, -1.6

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: contemporary Christian WAYF (+1.6)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: hot AC WRMF (-1.6)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 4.8 – 5.0, +.2, repeats in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 2.6 – 2.5, -.1, flat at #12

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.7 – 1.8, +.1, stays at #14

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WQMG, tenth month in a row, 10.9 – 11.0, +.1

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: adult hits WSMW (+1.6)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: classic rock WKRR (-1.0)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 3.3 – 3.0, -.3, #11 to #13

Cumulus Media-owned WKIM “News/Talk 98.9, The Roar of Memphis” 1.0 – 1.3, +.3, #19 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” 3.0 – 3.4, +.4, #13 to #12 and WMFS’ internet stream .3 – .4, +.1, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.2 – 1.5, +.3, repeats at #16

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO, tenth successive month, 16.7 – 12.5, -4.2

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: hot AC WMC-FM (+1.6)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO (-4.2)**

**Represents the largest September 2022 – October 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from all 48 PPM-markets

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 3.6 – 4.7, +1.1, ninth to eighth

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” flat at 1.0, #14 to #15

iHeartMedia’s WPOP “News Radio 1410 AM & 100.9 FM” steady at .2, repeats at #20

Audacy-owned WTIC-AM’s internet stream unchanged at .2, stays at #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 1.0- 1.4, +.4, continues at #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 8.5 – 6.1, -2.4, third to fifth

New England Public Media’s WFCR .2 – .4, +.2, #20 to #19

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 32nd month in a row, 12.1 – 11.2, -.9

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase (Tie): country WWYZ and news/talk WTIC-AM (+1.1)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WNPR (-2.4)

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.  

Ratings Takeaways

October 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Three

By Editor | by Editor

October 2022 PPM Data – Information for the October 2022 ratings period has been released for Portland; Charlotte; San Antonio; Sacramento; Pittsburgh; Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Orlando; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Kansas City; and Columbus.

Nielsen Audio’s October 2022 sweep covered September 15 – October 12.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are September 2022 – October 2022 (6+).

Note: The NHL season began October 7; NHL and NFL flagships are noted where applicable.

PORTLAND

News/Talk: Alpha Media’s KXL “FM 101 News” 8.4 – 7.3, -1.1, repeats in fourth-place

iHeartMedia-owned KEX “News Radio 1190” 3.5 – 3.9, +.4, tenth to ninth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB steady at 8.8, second to first and KOPB’s internet stream flat at 1.4 remains at #20

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KOPB, first month, unchanged at 8.8

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: regional Mexican KRYP (+1.7)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KLTH (-2.1)*

*Represents the largest September 2022 – October 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets, as well as the previous 24 PPM-markets

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk: Radio One-owned WBT AM & WBT-FM “Charlotte’s News Talk” (Carolina Panthers) 4.5 – 4.6, +.1, tenth to ninth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Radio One’s WFNZ-FM “Sports Radio 92.7” 1.4 – 2.8, +1.4, #17 to #15

Beasley Media Group-owned WSOC-HD3 “Fox Sports Charlotte” .2 – .3, +.1, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University Radio Foundation’s WFAE 4.8 – 4.2, -.6, ninth to tenth

South Carolina Educational Television Commission-owned WNSC .4 – .6, +.2, repeats at #18

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group urban AC WBAV, second straight month, 7.4 – 7.0, -.4

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk WFNZ (+1.4)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease:  classic rock WRFX (-1.0)

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WOAI “News Radio 1200” 3.9 – 3.6, -.3, repeats in tenth-place

Alpha Media-owned KTSA “Stay Connected” 3.4 – 3.3, -.1, #11 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Texas Public Radio’s KSTX 2.1 – 2.2, +.1, steady at #16

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM, ninth straight month, 9.7 – 9.5, -.2

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase:  country KAJA (+.5)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: hot AC KSMG (-.8)

SACRAMENTO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM “News 1530 AM & 93.1 FM” 8.9 – 10.8, +1.9, first and cluster-mate KSTE-AM “Talk 650” 4.5 – 4.1, -.4, repeats in sixth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KHTK “Sacramento Sports 1140” .9 – 1.1, +.2, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Capital Public Radio-owned KXJZ 4.1 – 3.3, -.8, #7 to #12

Number One 6+: news/talk KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM, second successive month, 8.9 – 10.8, +1.9

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: news/talk KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM (+1.9)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk KXJZ (-.8)

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk: Audacy’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020 AM” flat at 2.8, anchored at #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan All Sports All The Time” 6.0 – 6.6, +.6, repeats in fourth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting’s WESA steady at 3.7, #12 to #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia rock WDVE, third straight month, unchanged at 10.5

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: country WPGB (+1.2)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: country WDSY (-1.3)

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM “Talk Radio” 11.6 – 12.3, +.7, first

Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” 6.7 – 7.3, +.6, repeats in the runner-up slot

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Utah’s KUER 3.7 – 2.9, -.8, #10 to #13

Number One 6+: news/talk KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM, ninth month in succession, 11.6 – 12.3, +.7

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: news/talk KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM (+.7)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: rock KBER (-.9)

LAS VEGAS

News/Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned KDWN “The Talk Of Las Vegas” flat at 2.4, #16 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Lotus Spanish adult hits KWID, second month in a row, 7.1 – 5.8, -1.3

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: rhythmic CHR KVEG (+.7)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: regional Mexican KQRT (-1.4)

Note: KDWN is being acquired by Audacy.

ORLANDO

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WDBO “Orlando’s News Talk” 5.0 – 6.0, +1.0, eighth to fifth

iHeartMedia’s WTKS “Real Radio 104.1” 5.9 – 5.6, -.3, fifth to sixth

iHeartMedia-owned WFLF “Orlando News Radio” 1.0 – 1.3, +.3, remains at #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WYGM “96.9 The Game” .9 – 1.3, +.4, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Community Connections-owned WMFE 2.8 – 3.4, +.6, #13 to #12

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WMMO, third consecutive month, 8.5 – 8.0, -.5

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: Spanish tropical WPYO (+1.3)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: CHR WXXL (-.9)

CINCINNATI

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WLW “700 Cincinnati’s News Radio” 11.1 – 9.8, -1.3, #1 and cluster-mate WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” 3.9 – 3.4, -.5, repeats in tenth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WCKY “ESPN 1530” (Bengals) 1.0 – 1.7, +.7, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Cincinnati Public Radio’s WVXU 4.4 – 5.1, +.7, steady at #7

Number One 6+: news/talk WLW, eighth month in a row, 11.1 – 9.8, -1.3

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WGRR (+1.6)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: news/talk WLW (-1.3)

CLEVELAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTAM “News Radio 1100” 7.8 – 8.7, +.9, third to first

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” (Browns) 4.8 – 5.3, +.5, repeats in ninth-place and WKRK’s internet stream flat at 1.2, stays at #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Kent State University-owned WKSU 3.6 – 3.8, +.2, continues at #12

Number One 6+: news/talk WTAM, first month, 7.8 – 8.7, +.9

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: news/talk WTAM (+.9)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: country WGAR (-.6)

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KMBZ-FM “98.1 FM News, Traffic, Weather” 4.1 – 3.8, -.3, eighth to tenth and cluster-mate KMBZ-AM “Talk 980 AM” flat at 1.2, #21 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KCSP “Sports Radio 610 Our Teams, Our Town” 3.0 – 2.4, -.6, #14 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KCUR 4.0 – 4.1, +.1, ninth to seventh

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies KCMO-FM, seventh straight month, 8.3 – 9.2, +.9

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies KCMO-FM (+.9)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: urban contemporary KPRS (-.9)

COLUMBUS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WTVN “News Radio 610” 6.7 – 7.5, +.8, fourth to third  

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Tegna-owned WBNS-FM “97.1 FM The Fan” (Blue Jackets) 9.4 – 10.2, +.8, first

Public Radio News/Talk: Ohio State University’s WOSU 7.9 – 6.6, -1.3, third to fifth

Number One 6+: sports talk WBNS-FM, second consecutive month, 9.4 – 10.2, +.8

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: country WCOL (+2.4)**

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WOSU (-1.3)

**Represents the largest September 2022 – October 2022 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets, as well as the previous 24 PPM-markets

Up next: October 2022 overviews for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.  

Front Page News Industry News

Wednesday, November 2, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Round Two of October PPMs Released. The second of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s October PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen’s October 2022 sweep covered September 15 – October 12. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In Washington, although Hubbard Broadcasting’s all-news WTOP added nine-tenths for a 9.0 share (6+, weekly AHQ share), it remains locked in the #2 spot, while Cumulus Media’s news/talk WMAL-FM drops four-tenths for a 4.1 share finish that keeps it ranked #7. iHeartMedia’s news/talk WRKO, Boston is steady with a 3.8 share and remains ranked #9 while sister all-news WBZ-AM is also unchanged at a 5.3 share and continues in the #5 spot. In Seattle, Bonneville’s sports talk KIRO-AM tacks on six-tenths for a 7.6 share and holds the #1 spot for a second straight month while sister news/talk KIRO-FM adds half a share for a 7.1 share finish lifting it to the #2 rank. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways for this group of markets (as well as the first round) here.

SiriusXM Reports Third Quarter Net Revenue Up 4%. Reporting its third quarter 2022 financials, SiriusXM says its revenue was $2.28 billion, an increase of 4% over the same period in 2021. Net income was down from $343 million in Q3 of 2021 to $247 million in Q3 of this year. The company says it added 187,000 self-pay subscribers during the quarter. Chief executive officer Jennifer Wirtz comments, “We are pleased to report third quarter results that reflect strong execution during the period while leaning into investments designed to ensure SiriusXM will thrive long-term. This quarter we focused on enhancing the listener experience and expanding our unparalleled stable of programming and talent to continue providing our subscribers with the best in audio, both in-car and in the SXM App. From live sports and election coverage to exclusive artist channels and live Small Stage performances, we are thrilled to offer a diverse and differentiated content slate paired with technology that makes it easier than ever to discover new favorites.”

Radio Hall of Fame Inducts Class of 2022. The 2022 Radio Hall of Fame inductees were inducted at a ceremony last night (11/1) at Chicago’s Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel. This year’s inductees were: “Broadway” Bill Lee, WCBS-FM, New York (inducted by Beth Bacall); Carol Miller, WAXQ-FM, New York (inducted by Jim Kerr, a 2018 inductee); Chris “Mad Dog” Russo, SiriusXM (inducted by Stephen A. Smith); Ellen K, KOST-FM, Los Angeles (inducted by Ryan Seacrest, a 2018 inductee); Jeff Smulyan, chairman & CEO, Emmis Communications (inducted by Rick Cummings); Lon Helton, “Country Countdown USA” (inducted by Charlie Cook); Marv Dyson, radio executive (accepting on his behalf were Marv’s son Victor Dyson and Elroy Smith); Suzyn Waldman, WFAN & NY Yankees Radio Network (inducted by Mike Francesa, a 2018 inductee); and Walt “Baby” Love, Gospel Traxx (inducted by Donnie Simpson, a 2020 inductee). Also honored on stage was Mark Thompson, co-host of “Mark & Brian,” and a 2020 inductee. The evening was emceed by KFI, Los Angeles morning star Bill Handel who is pictured here (left) with Radio Hall of Fame co-chair Kraig Kitchin (right). Photo: David Kindler Photography

Baseball Legend Ron Cey Launches New Show with CRN Digital Talk Radio. Baseball legend Ron Cey is joining CRN Digital Talk Radio to host the new program, “We’ll See About That with Ron Cey,” that will be heard Saturdays at 2:00 pm ET. CRN Digital president and CEO Michael Horn says, “One of the iconic stars of the Los Angeles Dodgers and a fan favorite on any team, we are thrilled to have Ron Cey join the CRN team. Ron is entertaining! He brings his expertise and unique perspective to radio and is ready to talk about sports, newsmakers and tell stories that will inspire you!” Joining Cey on his inaugural broadcast is Dodger Hall of Fame broadcaster Jaime Jarrin, who recently retired after being known as the “Spanish Voice of the Dodgers” for 63 years.

Triton Digital Releases Top Streamers for September 2022. The ranking of streaming publishers for September from Triton Digital is released and in the U.S. (6AM-12AM Mon-Sun), iHeartMedia continues its hold on the #1 spot. Based on Average Active Sessions, iHeartMedia is far and away the top dog with 304,338 AAS. At #2 is NPR Member Stations (68,620 AAS), followed by Audacy at #3 (63,410 AAS) and Cumulus Streaming Network at #4 (42,246 AAS). Some of the other radio-centric companies making the ranker are Beasley Broadcasting Corporate at #7 (19,129 AAS), Hubbard Broadcasting at #8 (14,566 AAS), and Salem Communications at #10 (8,568 AAS). This Triton ranker only includes clients that participate for the full month for which the ranker is being released. You can see the complete ranker of the top 25 streaming publishers here.

TALKERS News Notes. The NFL’s Chicago Bears will be heard on Good Karma Brands’ WMVP-AM “ESPN Chicago” beginning with the 2023 season. In addition to operating and distributing the Bears Radio Network, “ESPN 1000” will add pre- and post-game programming as well as create unique content to air on its local shows. GKB SVP and Chicago market manager Keith Williams says, “The Chicago Bears are a best-in-class organization, and we are excited to partner with a charter franchise of the NFL. We are dedicated to delivering a top-notch broadcast for our partners and fans around the Midwest and the world. Our teammates are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to get started and execute at the highest level.” “ESPN 1000” director of content Danny Zederman adds, “‘ESPN Chicago’ is thrilled to be adding the Chicago Bears to our play-by-play roster alongside the Chicago White Sox. Our on-air talent is incredibly passionate about our hometown team, and that passion will show within and beyond the in-game broadcasts, integrated throughout our programming year-round.”…..This past weekend, Penn State and the National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame jointly honored FOX Sports Radio’s LaVar Arrington – co-host of the network’s weekday morning program, “Two Pros and a Cup of Joe,” with Brady Quinn and Jonas Knox, and co-host of the nationally-syndicated weekend program/podcast, “Up On Game,” with TJ Houshmandzadeh and Plaxico Burress – with an NFF Hall of Fame On-Campus Salute during halftime at the Penn State vs. Ohio State game at Beaver Stadium. Arrington was recognized for his time at Penn State and his upcoming induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in December 2022.

Midterm Elections/Trump 2024, The Economy/Fed Rate Hike, Pelosi Attack Aftermath, January 6/Trump Legal Issues, Russia-Ukraine War, Israeli Politics, RSV Cases Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (11/1). The midterm elections and the fight for control of the House and the Senate tied with former President Donald Trump’s expected run for president in 2024; inflation, fears of a recession and the Fed’s expected interest rate hike; the conspiracy theories surrounding the attack on Paul Pelosi; subpoenas issued in the January 6 investigation and Trump’s other legal issues; Russia’s assault on Ukrainian infrastructure and its weapons deals with Iran; Benjamin Netanyahu’s bid for a third term as Israel’s prime minister; and the soaring rate of RSV in the U.S. were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

October 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

By Editor | by Editor

October 2022 PPM Data – Information for the October 2022 sweep has been released for Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Nielsen Audio’s October 2022 sweep covered September 15 – October 12.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are September 2022 – October 2022  (6+).

The NHL season began October 7; NHL and NFL flagships are noted where applicable.

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 4.5 – 4.1, -.4, repeats in seventh-place

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 8.1 – 9.0, +.9, locked in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” (Capitals) 2.6 – 2.8, +.2, #15 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU 11.1 – 11.8, +.7, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, tenth month in succession, 11.1 – 11.8, +.7

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: news WTOP & WTLP (+.9)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: urban AC WMMJ (-.8)

BOSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” flat at 3.8, repeats in ninth-place

News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” steady at 5.3, continues in fifth-place

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Bruins, New England Patriots) 7.3 – 9.4, +2.1, second to first

Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” 4.0 – 4.9, +.9, seventh to sixth

Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 4.0 – 4.3, +.3, seventh to eighth

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 2.3 – 3.0, +.7, #19 to #11

Number One 6+: sports talk WBZ-FM, first month, 7.3 – 9.4, +2.1

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk WBZ-FM (+2.1)*

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: country WBWL (-.7)

*Represents the largest September 2022 – October 2022 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets – as well as the previous 12-PPM markets

MIAMI

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board-owned WLRN 3.4 – 3.5, +.1, repeats in ninth-place

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WFEZ, third consecutive month, 8.3 – 8.4, +.1

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: Spanish tropical WRTO (+1.0)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: Spanish tropical WXDJ (-1.7)

SEATTLE

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” (Seahawks) 6.6 – 7.1, +.5, third to second

News: Lotus Communications’ KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM “Northwest News Radio” 3.5 – 4.8, +1.3, #14 to #6

Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” (Seahawks) 7.0 – 7.6, +.6, first

iHeartMedia’s KJR-FM “93.3 FM Seattle’s Sports Leader” 1.3 – 2.3, +1.0, #23 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio’s KUOW 4.3 – 4.5, +.2, seventh to ninth

Number One 6+: sports talk KIRO-AM, second month in succession, 7.0 – 7.6, +.6

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: news KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM (+1.3)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: adult hits KJAQ (-1.0)

DETROIT

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 3.5 – 3.4, -.1, anchored at #13

News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” 4.6 – 4.8, +.2, remains in eighth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Red Wings, Lions) 5.6 – 7.1, +1.5, fourth to second and WXYT-FM’s internet stream 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, repeats at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 2.1 – 2.4, +.3, carries on at #17

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic rock WCSX, first month, 7.0 – 7.4, +.4

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk WXYT-FM (+1.5)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WOMC (-.7)

PHOENIX

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” 3.5 – 3.1, -.4, #10 to #12

Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” (Arizona Cardinals) 2.6 – 2.3, -.3, #17 to #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona’s Sports Station” 2.3 – 3.9, +1.6, #20 to #8

Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College-owned KJZZ 7.3 – 7.9, +.6, second to first

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KJZZ, first month, 7.3 – 7.9, +.6

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk KMVP-FM (+1.6)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KESZ (-1.0)

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” 5.6 – 4.8, -.8, seventh to tenth

iHeartMedia’s KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” 3.1 – 3.5, +.4, #15 to #13

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KTMY “My Talk 107.1” 3.1 – 2.9, -.2, #15 to #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” (Minnesota Wild, Minnesota Vikings) 6.7 – 8.2, +1.5, third to first

Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW 6.2 – 5.7, -.5, fifth to sixth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia sports talk KFXN, first month, 6.7 – 8.2, +1.5

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk KFXN (+1.5)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KQQL (-1.8)**

**Represents the largest September 2022 – October 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

SAN DIEGO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” 5.0 – 4.6, -.4, fourth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” 1.9 – 2.9, +1.0, #17 to #15 and KWFN’s internet stream .8 – 1.6, +.8, #23 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 5.6 – 6.1, +.5, repeats in third-place

Number One 6+: Local Media San Diego adult hits KFBG, seventh consecutive month, 8.1 – 6.8, -1.3

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk KWFN (+1.0)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: rhythmic hot AC XHRM (-1.5)

TAMPA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” (Lightning) 4.2 – 4.7, +.5, eighth to seventh

iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” 2.7 – 3.1, +.4, #16 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” 2.1 – 1.9, -.2, repeats at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 2.2 – 2.4, +.2, continues at #18

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, fourteenth month in a row, 9.1 – 9.4, +.3

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: rhythmic CHR WLLD (+.9)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: contemporary Christian WCIE (-1.7)

DENVER

News/Talk: In the iHeartMedia cluster, KHOW “Talk Radio 630” 2.1 – 2.5, +.4, #18 to #17; KOA “News Radio 850” (Broncos) 2.4 – 2.3, -.1, #17 to #18; and KDFD “Freedom 93.7” flat at 1.7, #21 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” 3.3 – 4.1, +.8, tenth to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 3.9 – 4.1, +.2, ninth to eighth

Number One 6+: Audacy hot AC KALC, first month, 6.2 – 6.9, +.7

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase (Tie): classic hits-oldies KXKL and sports talk KKFN (+.8)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: triple A KBCO (-1.4)

BALTIMORE

News/Talk: Hearst Television’s WBAL “News Radio 1090 AM & 101.5 FM” (Ravens) 3.8– 3.9, +.1, repeats in ninth-place

WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” 1.7 – 1.3, -.4, #17 to #18

Cumulus Media-owned WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” .7 – .8, +.1, #22 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” 4.2 – 5.9, +1.7, seventh to fifth

Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 3.3 – 3.4, +.1, stays at #11

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WLIF, second consecutive month, 9.5 – 9.0, -.5

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk WJZ-FM (+1.7)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: urban AC WWIN-FM (-.9)

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” 6.5 – 6.9, +.4, fifth to fourth and cluster-mate KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 1.7 – 1.9, +.2, repeats at #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” (Blues) 3.6 – 3.7, +.1, #11 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 3.0 – 3.9, +.9, #14 to #11

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting adult hits WARH, first month, 8.1 – 9.3, +1.2

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: adult hits WARH (+1.2)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: alternative KPNT (-1.0)

Up next: October 2022 overviews for Portland; Charlotte; San Antonio; Sacramento; Pittsburgh; Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Orlando; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Kansas City; and Columbus.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Ratings Takeaways

October 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

By Editor | by Editor

October 2022 PPM Data – Information for the October 2022 sweep has been released for Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Nielsen Audio’s October 2022 sweep covered September 15 – October 12.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are September 2022 – October 2022  (6+).

The NHL season began October 7; NHL and NFL flagships are noted where applicable.

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 4.5 – 4.1, -.4, repeats in seventh-place

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 8.1 – 9.0, +.9, locked in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” (Capitals) 2.6 – 2.8, +.2, #15 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU 11.1 – 11.8, +.7, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, tenth month in succession, 11.1 – 11.8, +.7

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: news WTOP & WTLP (+.9)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: urban AC WMMJ (-.8)

BOSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” flat at 3.8, repeats in ninth-place

News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” steady at 5.3, continues in fifth-place

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Bruins, New England Patriots) 7.3 – 9.4, +2.1, second to first

Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” 4.0 – 4.9, +.9, seventh to sixth

Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 4.0 – 4.3, +.3, seventh to eighth

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 2.3 – 3.0, +.7, #19 to #11

Number One 6+: sports talk WBZ-FM, first month, 7.3 – 9.4, +2.1

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk WBZ-FM (+2.1)*

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: country WBWL (-.7)

*Represents the largest September 2022 – October 2022 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets – as well as the previous 12-PPM markets

MIAMI

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board-owned WLRN 3.4 – 3.5, +.1, repeats in ninth-place

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WFEZ, third consecutive month, 8.3 – 8.4, +.1

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: Spanish tropical WRTO (+1.0)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: Spanish tropical WXDJ (-1.7)

SEATTLE

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” (Seahawks) 6.6 – 7.1, +.5, third to second

News: Lotus Communications’ KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM “Northwest News Radio” 3.5 – 4.8, +1.3, #14 to #6

Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” (Seahawks) 7.0 – 7.6, +.6, first

iHeartMedia’s KJR-FM “93.3 FM Seattle’s Sports Leader” 1.3 – 2.3, +1.0, #23 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio’s KUOW 4.3 – 4.5, +.2, seventh to ninth

Number One 6+: sports talk KIRO-AM, second month in succession, 7.0 – 7.6, +.6

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: news KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM (+1.3)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: adult hits KJAQ (-1.0)

DETROIT

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 3.5 – 3.4, -.1, anchored at #13

News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” 4.6 – 4.8, +.2, remains in eighth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Red Wings, Lions) 5.6 – 7.1, +1.5, fourth to second and WXYT-FM’s internet stream 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, repeats at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 2.1 – 2.4, +.3, carries on at #17

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic rock WCSX, first month, 7.0 – 7.4, +.4

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk WXYT-FM (+1.5)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WOMC (-.7)

PHOENIX

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” 3.5 – 3.1, -.4, #10 to #12

Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” (Arizona Cardinals) 2.6 – 2.3, -.3, #17 to #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona’s Sports Station” 2.3 – 3.9, +1.6, #20 to #8

Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College-owned KJZZ 7.3 – 7.9, +.6, second to first

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KJZZ, first month, 7.3 – 7.9, +.6

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk KMVP-FM (+1.6)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KESZ (-1.0)

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” 5.6 – 4.8, -.8, seventh to tenth

iHeartMedia’s KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” 3.1 – 3.5, +.4, #15 to #13

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KTMY “My Talk 107.1” 3.1 – 2.9, -.2, #15 to #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” (Minnesota Wild, Minnesota Vikings) 6.7 – 8.2, +1.5, third to first

Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW 6.2 – 5.7, -.5, fifth to sixth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia sports talk KFXN, first month, 6.7 – 8.2, +1.5

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk KFXN (+1.5)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KQQL (-1.8)**

**Represents the largest September 2022 – October 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

SAN DIEGO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” 5.0 – 4.6, -.4, fourth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” 1.9 – 2.9, +1.0, #17 to #15 and KWFN’s internet stream .8 – 1.6, +.8, #23 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 5.6 – 6.1, +.5, repeats in third-place

Number One 6+: Local Media San Diego adult hits KFBG, seventh consecutive month, 8.1 – 6.8, -1.3

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk KWFN (+1.0)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: rhythmic hot AC XHRM (-1.5)

TAMPA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” (Lightning) 4.2 – 4.7, +.5, eighth to seventh

iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” 2.7 – 3.1, +.4, #16 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” 2.1 – 1.9, -.2, repeats at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 2.2 – 2.4, +.2, continues at #18

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, fourteenth month in a row, 9.1 – 9.4, +.3

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: rhythmic CHR WLLD (+.9)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: contemporary Christian WCIE (-1.7)

DENVER

News/Talk: In the iHeartMedia cluster, KHOW “Talk Radio 630” 2.1 – 2.5, +.4, #18 to #17; KOA “News Radio 850” (Broncos) 2.4 – 2.3, -.1, #17 to #18; and KDFD “Freedom 93.7” flat at 1.7, #21 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” 3.3 – 4.1, +.8, tenth to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 3.9 – 4.1, +.2, ninth to eighth

Number One 6+: Audacy hot AC KALC, first month, 6.2 – 6.9, +.7

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase (Tie): classic hits-oldies KXKL and sports talk KKFN (+.8)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: triple A KBCO (-1.4)

BALTIMORE

News/Talk: Hearst Television’s WBAL “News Radio 1090 AM & 101.5 FM” (Ravens) 3.8– 3.9, +.1, repeats in ninth-place

WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” 1.7 – 1.3, -.4, #17 to #18

Cumulus Media-owned WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” .7 – .8, +.1, #22 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” 4.2 – 5.9, +1.7, seventh to fifth

Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 3.3 – 3.4, +.1, stays at #11

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WLIF, second consecutive month, 9.5 – 9.0, -.5

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk WJZ-FM (+1.7)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: urban AC WWIN-FM (-.9)

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” 6.5 – 6.9, +.4, fifth to fourth and cluster-mate KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 1.7 – 1.9, +.2, repeats at #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” (Blues) 3.6 – 3.7, +.1, #11 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 3.0 – 3.9, +.9, #14 to #11

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting adult hits WARH, first month, 8.1 – 9.3, +1.2

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: adult hits WARH (+1.2)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: alternative KPNT (-1.0)

Up next: October 2022 overviews for Portland; Charlotte; San Antonio; Sacramento; Pittsburgh; Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Orlando; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Kansas City; and Columbus.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Ratings Takeaways

October 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

By Editor | by Editor

October 2022 PPM Data – Information for the October 2022 ratings period has been released for New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; San Francisco; Dallas; Houston; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario; San Jose; and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey).

Nielsen Audio’s October 2022 sweep covered September 15 – October 12.

TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are September 2022 – October 2022 (6+).

The NHL season began October 7; NHL and NFL flagships are noted where applicable.

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” flat at 3.0, #11 to #12

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.7 – 1.5, -.2, #18 to #19

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 2.9 – 3.2, +.3, #13 to #11 and co-owned WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” unchanged at 3.0, #11 to #12

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (NY Giants) 3.2 – 3.7, +.5, tenth to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s 4.1 – 3.6, -.5, eighth to ninth

Number One 6+: Mediaco Holding-owned/Emmis operated urban AC WBLS, second month in a row, 6.6 – 6.9, +.3

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase (Tie): sports talk WFAN and Spanish contemporary WXNY (+.5)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease (Tie): adult contemporary WLTW; CHR WHTZ; and public radio news/talk WNYC-FM (-.5)

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” flat at 4.7, continues in fourth-place

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 3.5 – 3.2, -.3, eighth to ninth

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.6 – 2.7, +.1, #14 to #12

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, third month in a row, 5.8 – 5.7, -.1

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: urban contemporary KRRL (+.7)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: adult hits KCBS-FM (-.6)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” 3.5 – 2.9, -.6, ninth to tenth

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” (Bears) 4.9 – 5.3, +.4, third to fourth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WSCR “670 The Score” (Blackhawks) 2.5 – 2.6, +.1, #14 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 4.4 – 4.0, -.4, fifth to seventh  

Number One 6+: Hubbard Radio classic rock WDRV, sixth month in a row, 6.6 – 6.1, -.5

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: urban AC WVAZ (+.7)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: news/talk WGN (-.6)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KGO 1.7 – 1.6, -.1, repeats at #20

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.4 – 7.0, +.6, second to first

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (49ers) 3.6 – 3.3, -.3, sixth to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 7.8 – 6.6, -1.2, first to third

Number One 6+ (Tie): news KCBS-AM & KFRC, first month, 6.4 – 7.0, +.6 and Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, first month, 6.0 – 7.0, +1.0

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: adult contemporary KOIT-FM (+1.0)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk KQED (-1.2)

Note: KGO transitioned from news/talk to sports betting (10/10/2022)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 4.9 – 4.8, -.1, repeats in third-place

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” (Cowboys) 2.6 – 2.7, +.1, steady at #16

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) 4.0 – 4.4, +.4, seventh to fourth

Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Cowboys) 1.9 – 2.8, +.9, #21 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA flat at 3.0, #13 to #14

Number One 6+: Univision regional Mexican KLNO, ninth month in a row, 5.4 – 5.2, -.2

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk KRLD-FM (+.9)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KDGE (-1.0)

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” 3.3 – 3.7, +.4, repeats at #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston-owned KUHF flat at 2.0, continues at #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, nineteenth consecutive month, 8.7 – 9.8, +1.1

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: adult contemporary KODA (+1.1)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease (Tie): contemporary Christian KSBJ; alternative KTBZ; and Spanish contemporary KLOL (-.7)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 6.3 – 5.9, -.4, fifth to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” 3.2 – 3.6, +.4, #11 to #9

Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Falcons) 2.7 – 2.4, -.3, #15 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 6.8 – 7.2, +.4, third to second

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, tenth successive month, 8.3 – 8.4, +.1

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase (Tie): urban AC WAMJ; contemporary Christian WFSH; and CHR WWPW (+.8)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease (Tie): urban AC WALR and country WKHX (-.8)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” flat at 5.2, repeats in seventh-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Eagles) 5.3 – 6.5, +1.2, sixth to third and WIP’s internet stream, 2.6 – 2.2, -.4, #12 to #14

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (Flyers) 1.2 – 1.5, +.3, #22 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 4.6 – 4.8, +.2, continues in eighth-place

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group rock WMMR, third straight month, 8.7 – 7.9, -.8

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk WIP (+1.2)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: rock WMMR (-.8)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” steady at 2.1, #17 to #16

Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 2.1 – 1.9, -.2, remains at #17

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 3.9 – 4.0, +.1, continues in seventh-place and cluster-mate WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 2.4 – 2.2, -.2, repeats at #14

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (NY Giants) 3.8 – 4.7, +.9, eighth to fifth

Emmis-owned/Good Karma Brands-operated WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Islanders, Rangers) 1.3 – 1.6, +.3, steady at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, sixth month in succession, 6.6 – 6.1, -.5

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk WFAN (+.9)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: CHR WBLI (-.8)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, flat at .4, anchored at #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, tenth consecutive month, 7.7 – 9.2, +1.5

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies KOLA (+1.5)*

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: rhythmic CHR KGGI (-.5)

*Represents the largest September 2022 – October 2022  increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.5 – 2.0, +.5, #21 to #15 and cluster-mate KGO 2.7 – 1.9, -.8, #13 to #20

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 5.7 – 6.6, +.9, second to first

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (49ers ) 3.7 – 3.9, +.2, eighth to sixth

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+ (Tie): news KCBS-AM & KFRC, first month, 5.7 – 6.6, +.9 and Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, fourth straight month 7.3 – 6.6, -.7

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: news KCBS-AM & KFRC (+.9)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: regional Mexican KSOL (-1.0)

Note: KGO transitioned from news/talk to sports betting (10/10/2022)

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.0 – 6.5, +.5, second to third

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” .5 – 1.2, +.7, #23 to #19

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 2.6 – 2.5, -.1, #12 to #13 and co-owned WINS 1.4 – 1.2, -.2, #17 to #19

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (NY Giants) 2.8 – 3.4, +.6, #11 to #8

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, fourth month in a row, 8.6 – 6.9, -1.7

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: Spanish tropical WSKQ (+1.2)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW (-1.7)**

**Represents the largest September 2022 – October 2022  decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

Up next: October 2022 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Advice

Monday Memo: Earwitness News

By Editor | by Editor

By Holland Cooke
Consultant

 

BLOCK ISLAND, RI — Buzz-of-The-Biz in recent days: WTOP-FM, Washington offers newsroom staffers voluntary separation buyouts. Even radio’s top-billing station – owned by venerable Hubbard – is feeling the pinch. “Welcome to the club,” broadcasters elsewhere shrug.

Disclosure: I programmed that station for seven years in the 1980s, and hired some of the voices still heard there. And in today’s “gig economy,” with remote work now so commonplace, there’s new opportunity for the nimble.

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Front Page News Industry News

Wednesday, October 26, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Embattled Los Angeles City Councilmember Kevin de León Sits for Interview with KBLA, Los Angeles’ Tavis Smiley. One of the several Los Angeles city officials who were recorded using racist language during a closed-door meeting appeared for a sit-down interview with KBLA, Los Angeles owner and air personality Tavis Smiley. Kevin de León, who is refusing to resign from his council seat, again apologized to Smiley and the station’s listeners while admitting that saying sorry is not enough. KTLA-TV’s coverage of the interview includes Smiley telling de León, “When I hear that tape and when other Black folk I know hear that tape, they hear y’all plotting and planning in that meeting to come for Black folk. Y’all shanked us in that meeting. You don’t see it that way?” While two other council members have resigned in the wake of the scandal, de León tells Smiley he won’t because, while he should not have used the language he did, he believes the council ultimately protected Black districts.

Shawn Kiser Named Brand Manager for KFIZ, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. The Mountain Dog Media news/talk station announces that Shawn Kiser – who served with the station from 1995 through 2004 – is returning to take on the brand manager role. The Fond du Lac native will also host the morning drive program and serve as vice president and assistant general manager for the company. Kiser says, “KFIZ is one of America’s radio pioneers, and I’m honored to be back home to once again serve as its leader as well as the host of its flagship morning show. I’m looking forward to building on the station’s legacy and making it an even greater source of information, entertainment, and advocacy for the community.” The station says, “Kiser possesses a wealth of broadcasting experience, spending more than 16 years in radio and television. He’s also spent more than 10 years helping non-profits across northeast Wisconsin raise millions of dollars and has served as emcee for dozens of fundraising galas.” Earlier this year, Kiser began producing a special series celebrating KFIZ’s historic 100th anniversary called “Inside the Studio: KFIZ @ 100” featuring conversations with some of the station’s biggest and brightest all-time personalities. Kiser’s first day on-air as morning show host will be October 31 as he replaces the retiring Jerry St. John.

WOLB-AM, Baltimore’s Larry Young to Be Honored for 25 Years of Service. Morning drive talk host Larry Young will be honored tomorrow (10/27) at an anniversary and retirement dinner ahead of his planned retirement from the Urban One station at year’s end. On June 10 of this year, Young was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award from TALKERS magazine at the TALKERS 2022 Convention at Hofstra University at which he announced he would be retiring from the station in December. Young served in Maryland government for 28 years – first in the House of Delegates, then in the State Senate – before launching his full-time radio career in 1998. You can see Young speak about his career during his acceptance speech at TALKERS 2022 here.

KFI, Los Angeles News Department Produces New Podcast Series, ‘Deadly Pill.’ This new iHeartMedia Los Angeles/iHeartRadio Podcast Network limited series podcast and radio news documentary airs on KFI, Los Angeles on Sunday 10/30 at 4:00 pm. “Deadly Pill” is hosted by award-winning investigative journalist Steve Gregory and is co-produced by award-winning producers Jacob Gonzalez and Alex Razo. It investigates the fentanyl crisis and begins with an introduction to the issue by Bill Bodner, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s special agent in charge of Los Angeles. Bodner explains how illicit fentanyl took everyone by surprise and how the agency had to change tactics to go after the makers and the sellers. The podcast also features an associate professor of clinical pharmacy from the University of Southern California who walks us through the history of fentanyl and how future pharmacists are being trained to watch for signs of opioid abuse. The series also explores the challenges of the medical field to catch up with the overwhelming number of people who have become addicted to opioids or have caused severe injury to themselves. The medical examiner of Los Angeles County provides sobering stats on the number of bodies his operation has had to handle because of overdose deaths, on top of the COVID-19 pandemic.

TALKERS News Notes. A new sports podcast from Audacy launches titled, “The Best Football Show.” The 15-minute daily podcast is hosted by WIP-FM, Philadelphia “SportsRadio 94WIP” Eagles reporter and host of the “Go Birds” podcast Eliot Shorr-Parks. Audacy SVP of sports Matthew Volk says, “We are excited to marry the unique perspectives of Eliot Shorr-Parks with the full breadth of our robust podcast network and iconic sports brands. This launch provides our fans with the most topical, entertaining and complete coverage from the people who live and breathe the sport.”…..Global Media Services announces the nationwide syndication of “Spiritual Food For Thought,” a 60- second, weekday feature hosted by Malone that contains an original uplifting, and engaging thought from a positive perspective. She says, “In a world where listeners are barraged with an almost steady stream of negativity and bad news, I give them something positive every day. Most of the time, it’s as simple as looking at things in our daily lives with a new perspective.”…..Virtual News Center is adds new affiliate stations has added Bay and Beyond Broadcasting’s classic hits KKHA, country KIOX, and KMKS to its roster.

Debates/Midterms, January 6/Trump Legal Issues, The Economy, Russia-Ukraine War, and Ye Controversies Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (10/25). This week’s debates taking place ahead of the November midterm elections and speculation about which party will control the House and Senate in January; the DOJ’s attempt to force former White House counsel Pat Cipollone and former deputy White House counsel Patrick Philbin to testify about their conversations with former President Donald Trump and the other legal battles facing Trump; inflation and concerns about a recession; Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and its destruction of Ukrainian infrastructure; and the compounding loss of deals and contracts for Ye in the aftermath of his latest anti-Semitic comments were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Sales

Pending Business: The ‘Who Cares?’ Test

By Editor | by Editor

By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President

 

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — Time to sharpen up, drill down and pass the “Who Cares?” test. This is where we take a hard look at how you present your on-air talent for host reads.

If you are like most sellers or managers, you look for a comfortable rhythm in your proposals that works for your style and now fits the cut and paste culture. There is nothing wrong with time-saving technique — except when the shortcuts take you to an outdated comfort zone. In radio sales we all get hypnotized by what worked for years. After all, we are creatures of habit and why mess with past success? It’s a challenging but important part of radio sales strategy.

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