Industry News

Save AM Radio in Cars Campaign Wins First Round

After Ford’s Tuesday announcement that it is reversing its previous course and will not eliminate AM radios from its gasoline vehicles in 2024, supporters of the campaign are enjoying a victory lap. Ford said it would make AM radio available in all gas vehicles in 2024 and will make upgrades available for owners of 2023 electric vehicles who want an AM radio. This comes on the heels of a bi-partisan, bi-cameral bill filed by congressional leaders in Washington that would give the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration authority to require AM radios in new vehicles at no additional cost, citing safety for citizens, access to foreign language programming and more. Ford is not the only auto manufacturer to announce phasing out of AM radio in gasoline and electric vehicles and proponents of AM radio are saying this but one battle in the war to save AM radio in vehicles. TALKERS magazine publisher Michael Harrison appeared on FOX News Channel to talk about the issue. See the video of his appearance here.

Industry News

Beasley’s Deal with Waymark Brings AI Video Ads to Local Radio Markets

Beasley Media Group enters into an agreement with Waymark to use its generative AI technology to provide local advertisers with “high-quality commercials with professional voice-over in five minutes or less.” Beasley will roll out the technology across its 12 markets. The press release says, “The Waymark partnership givesim Beasley Media Group the advantage of offering their local advertising partners instant and affordable video creative that overcomes traditional barriers to video advertising… The pact with Beasley Media Group is Waymark’s first major step into radio, following recent national video deals with both Spectrum Reach and Gray Television stations. With imthe rise of connected TV and free ad-supported streaming TV channels, this opens a host of new marketing opportunities for local advertisers. Beasley’s local sales teams are already using Waymark to win small business clients by providing customized sample creative for CTV and digital opportunities.” Beasley Media Group VP of operations Kevin Rich comments, “Local advertisers are looking for more effective and cost-efficient ways to stand out and attract customers across multiple media platforms. Our partnership with Waymark allows us to help local advertisers accomplish this goal and maximize the audience that will see and hear their message.”

Industry News

Portland’s “The Game” Renews with Host John Canzano

Alpha Media’s sports talk KXTG-AM, Portland “750 AM The Game” extends its partnership with “The Bald Faced Truth” hosted by John Canzano. Canzano, who has been with the station since its launch in 2007, says,im “I’m thrilled with the momentum we have and love our team. We get the best guests and the in-depth reporting and commentary sets the show apart. But, more than anything, it’s three hours of fun. I love that the show serves as an escape for listeners.” Station content director Keith Abrams states, “‘750 The Game’ is very fortunate to have John Canzano and ‘The Bald Faced Truth’ as part of the team! He IS the voice of truth regarding the Ducks, Beavers, Trail Blazers, the Pac-12 and all things ‘sports!’”

Industry News

AJC: Research Behind Changes at CMG’s 95.5 WSB in Atlanta

In an interview with the Atlanta Journal Constitution’s Rodney Ho, program director Ken Charles reveals the reasons for the programming changes that have taken place at Cox Media Group’s news/talk WSB-AM/WSBB-FM over the past year. Charles says that when longtime morning host Scott Slade announced heim was stepping back from his duties, that allowed the station to use internal research to consider the best options to tweak its programming. That resulted in the station naming longtime station reporter and anchor Chris Chandler the new morning host, swapping late morning and afternoon hosts Mark Arum and Eric Von Haessler, and making Shelley Wynter solo host in evenings and giving his former co-host MalaniKai Massey her own Saturday night program. Charles says, “I feel very comfortable that we’ve got the right people in the right slots. We are set to grow our success.” Read the AJC story here.

Industry News

Binnie Media Partners with VSiN for New England Sports Betting Station

VSiN and New England broadcasting company Binnie Media partner to bring the New Hampshire region a full-time sports betting station on WFNQ-HD2, Nashua. Additionally, VSiN’s “Brent Musburger’s Action Updates” feature will air twice each weekday on eight of the company’s radio stations throughout the region. Binnieim Media VP of programming Heath Cole comments, “Sports betting is quickly becoming part of the daily conversation. As we evaluated the options in this space, we landed on VSiN. Their programming is best-in-class and the support from the VSiN team goes well beyond the content we air on the station. From the short-form ‘Action Updates’ to the digital content the VSiN team creates for our listeners, we think this content is, by far, the best in the space. We’re very excited about the opportunity to bring this programming to our listeners.”

Industry News

Spotify Tops Edison Research Top Podcast Networks Chart

Edison Research releases its latest ranking of the Top Podcast Networks in the U.S. based on total network reach for Q4 2022 – Q1 2023 among weekly podcast listeners age 13+. They are ranked by the reach of theim producer or network that represents the advertising for the show, not the platform or app that the listener uses to access the podcast. For this period, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast Network, and iHeartRadio take the top three spots, respectively. Other commercial radio-related networks making this ranker include: Audacy (#8), Cumulus Podcast Network (#10), The Ramsey Network(#25), and Blaze Podcast Network (#28).

Industry News

WTOP-FM, Washington Wins Regional Murrow Award

Hubbard Radio’s all-news WTOP-FM, Washington takes home a Regional Edward R. Murrow Award from the RTDNA in the Breaking News Category for its coverage of the Roe v. Wade decision.  WTOP director of newsim and programming Julia Ziegler says, “This award is one that we really won as team for our collective work as journalists committed to making a difference in our community. We are so honored to be recognized with this regional Edward R. Murrow award.” WTOP now advances to the national round of the competition where it will compete against regional winners from across the country.

Industry News

MIW Announces Mary Zukin is First “Speak Up” Mentee

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio announces that Mary Zukin, senior sales & marketing executive at Iliad Media Group in Boise, Idaho is the first “Speak Up!” mentee. Created in partnership with Media Staffing Network and Laurie Kahn before her passing, “Speak Up!” is a one-year program designed for one menteeim from any department in a small to medium radio market. MIW says, “The program is designed to encapsulate so much of what Laurie brought to the industry – a mentorship that encourages and empowers women to develop confidence and sharpen communication skills, to hone the ability to effectively speak up in order to further attain her goals.” MIW board president Ruth Presslaff says, “This program will always hold a special place in our hearts as Laurie has left an unforgettable impact on all of us in the industry. We had a number of talented candidates to choose from, so it was a tough decision. Mary’s energy and vibrant character really illuminated our reasons for curating this program and we’re excited to have her as our first inaugural mentee!”

Industry News

Yesterday’s (5/23) Top News/Talk Media Stories

Negotiations between the White House and congressional leaders over the debt ceiling; Florida Governor Ron DeSantis expected to announce presidential bid with Elon Musk via Twitter; Ford announces it will keep AM radio available in 2024 models; anti-Putin Russians attack Russia’s Belgorod region from positions in Ukraine;  the surgeon general issues a report warning of the dangers of social media for children; Donald Trump’s legal battles; and South Carolina legislature approves six-week abortion ban were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Ford Reconsiders – Will Keep AM Radio in 2024 Cars and ’23 EVs

According to a report by the AP, Ford is changing its previously announced policy regarding AM radios. Ford CEO Jim Farley states, “We’ve decided to include it on all 2024 Ford and Lincoln vehicles. For any owners of Ford’s EVs without AM broadcast capability, we’ll offer a software update.” Reacting to Ford’s earlier decision, U.S. lawmakers rolled out a bi-partisan, bi-cameral bill that would authorize the National Highway Trafficim Safety Administration to require AM in new vehicles at no additional cost, citing safety for citizens, access to foreign language programming and more. While Ford’s change of heart takes some of the immediate heat off the industry, there’s no indication legislators won’t continue pushing the legislation. Reacting to the bill, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation called the bill unnecessary and said the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Integrated Public Alerts and Warning System sends public safety messages across numerous platforms including FM radio, streaming sites, satellite radios, and cellular networks. Read the AP story here.

Industry News

Audacy Strikes Deal with AMG for New Audio Streams

Audacy and Allen Media Group announce a content distribution partnership that will allow Audacy to launch three new audio streams for AGM properties The Weather Channel television network, Pattrn, and The Weather Channel en Español. The companies say The Weather Channel stream will only be available duringim severe weather events as a live audio simulcast of The Weather Channel television channel. The Pattrn stream will be a daily live audio simulcast of the Pattrn FAST channel, which explores climate, the environment and how the Earth is changing and elevates new voices to imthe conversation. The Weather Channel en Español stream will be a daily live audio simulcast of The Weather Channel en Español network.  Audacy SVP digital audio content Tim Clarke says, “Audio and radio are time-tested, reliable ways for listeners to access critical and potentially life-saving information during severe weather events. This partnership will add a new layer to our best-in-class news content offering while expanding the reach of The Weather Channel’s broadcast weather coverage to Audacy app users across the country.”

Industry News

WBZ-AM, Boston Takes Home Four Regional Murrow Awards

iHeartMedia Boston’s all-news WBZ-AM wins four Regional Edward R. Murrow Awards from the RTDNA in the categories of Excellence in Innovation, Breaking News Coverage, Best Newscast, and Excellence in Sound. Inim 2022, WBZ NewsRadio won three Regional Edward R. Murrow Awards for excellence Breaking News Coverage, Best Newscast and Continuing Coverage. WBZ NewsRadio director of operations Bill Flaherty comments, “To be singled out in these important categories is such an honor. I couldn’t be prouder of our team and the hard work they put in over the past year.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s (5/22) Top News/Talk Stories

The negotiations between the White House and congressional leaders over the debt ceiling; the legal battles facing former President Donald Trump; the 2024 presidential race and the entrance of Senator Tim Scott into the GOP primary; reports that a second IRS whistleblower has been removed from the Hunter Biden investigation; the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine; Florida Governor Ron DeSantis versus the LGBTQ community; the three-state pact to reduce use of water from the Colorado River; and the NBA and NHL playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Audacy partners with nonprofit breast cancer organization Susan G. Komen for its four Milwaukee radio stations – including sports talk WSSP-AM “1250AM The Fan” – to become the official radio media sponsor of the organization’s Wisconsin division. The stations will unite to support Susan G. Komen with a “One in Eight” program spotlighting the fact that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. On the eighth, eighteenth, and twenty-eighth day of each month, the stations will host a segment promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors. Audacy Madison and Milwaukee regional president Andrea Hansen says, “We’re proud to leverage our voice to inspire local community members to support the cause to end breast cancer in ways that unite Milwaukee and deliver much-needed funding. Susan G. Komen is the leader in breast cancer research and the fight to find a cure and we’re thrilled to team up with them to champion their mission.”

City College of New York-owned non-commercial station WHCR-FM is airing a new, weekly radio programim hosted by Barbara Askins, president & CEO of the 125th Street Business Improvement District. The title of the show is “125th Street & Beyond” and focuses on the organization’s mission. WHCR general manager Angela Harden comments, “It is also a show about the relationships the 125th St. BID is building with New York City agencies and with BIDs around the world. Perhaps no neighborhood in New York City is as storied as Harlem, long the capital of Black culture in the United States. It’s a name known around the world. And now 125th Street has its own show. I am honored to host the show and look forward to welcoming many voices that support the betterment of Harlem.”

Industry News

Dr. Daliah Wachs Meets Donny Osmond

im

Pictured above is GCN nationally syndicated talk radio host Dr. Daliah Wachs (right) with legendary performer Donny Osmond (left). Dr. Wachs tells TALKERS magazine, “It was such an honor being invited to his amazing show and to hang out with him afterward so my family could meet him (my mom snuck a kiss on his cheek LOL).”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend

The negotiations between the White House and congressional leaders over the debt ceiling; the number of migrants applying for asylum in the U.S.; the G7 summit, Volodymyr Zelensky’s participation in the gathering and the Russia/Ukraine war; Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) enters the 2024 presidential race; Donald Trump’s legal battles; the NAACP issues travel advisory for Florida in response to Governor Ron DeSantis policies; and the NHL and NBA playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

KWAM, Memphis Nabs Regional Murrow Award

Starnes Media Group’s news/talk KWAM, Memphis “The Mighty 990” wins its first Regional Edward R. Murrow Award from the RTDNA, in which it was recognized for its digital platform. Starnes Media Group owner Toddim Starnes comments, “When I bought KWAM I promised our listeners that we were going to bring fair and balanced journalism back to the radio. I’m incredibly proud of our dedicated and hard-working team of broadcasters at KWAM.”

Industry News

Lee Habeeb of Our American Stories is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast

Going all the way back to the beginnings of language, meaningful communication between human beings has been built on the foundation of storytelling. One of modern talk radio’s greatest storytellers, Lee Habeeb, is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Habeeb is the hostim and founder of “Our American Stories,” a storytelling radio show and podcast featuring narratives that represent the best of America: history, sports, music, free enterprise, charity, faith, family and more. It can be heard five days a week, two hours a night, on well over 250 affiliates, including many heritage outlets, across the country. And archives of the show are available as an evergreen series of podcasts. In 2021, “Our American Stories” was signed to a syndication deal with Premiere Networks, giving it an added layer of distribution muscle as the property continues to show non-stop growth and display tremendous compatibility with more traditional forms of news/talk radio programming. According to Harrison, “Lee Habeeb is one of the most positive, as well as successful, players in the news/talk radio community with a compelling message of goodness and unity. He is a shining light of hope and growth for our industry and America.” Listen to the podcast in its entirety here.

Industry News

Outkick Celebrates YouTube Growth

Sports media platform OutKick announces that its YouTube subscriptions rose more than 140% from March to April 2023. Outkick also says it enjoyed a record month of video views on YouTube with 284.2 million – up 909% versus March 2023, according to Shareable. Additionally, the platform finished April 2023 ahead of itsim custom competitive set in year-over-year growth across multiplatform unique visitors, page views, and minutes spent, according to data from Comscore. OutKick delivered over 8 million multiplatform total unique visitors, up 394% year-over-year, 32 million multiplatform total views, and 36 million multiplatform total minutes. OutKick founder Clay Travis says, “OutKick continues to be the only platform that drives the sports, culture, and political intersection and that separates us from the rest of the field. Our authentic and unfiltered reporting across the board is unmatched which is a direct result of the significant increases we’re seeing every month.”

Industry News

News Pro Steve Clawson Dies at 64

Career news pro Steve Clawson has died at the age of 64. Clawson was most recently serving as managing editor and anchor for Skyview Networks. The company says of Clawson, “After beginning his career at WTRX in Flint, Michigan, he came to Arizona where he was a radio journalist at KTAR and KFYI, an assignment editorim at FOX’s KSAZ, a producer at PBS’s KAET, and whose voice was prominently featured in the 1989 award-winning documentary, Roger and Me. In 2018, Steve joined Skyview Networks’ Arizona and California News Radio teams, where he covered many news stories, including political elections and a recent interview with newly elected Arizona Governor, Katie Hobbs. Skyview Networks VP, news Jeff Scott says, “In addition to being an outstanding broadcaster and journalist, Steve was a wonderful person, with a kind word and a smile for everyone he encountered. I feel incredibly lucky to have known him for more than three decades, and for having worked alongside him at KTAR, KSAZ, and for the past several years at Skyview Networks. Please keep Steve in your thoughts and know that we will do our very best to carry on his tradition of excellence and service.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Salem Media Group announces that it will present virtually at the Singular Research Spring Select Webinar on May 24 at 4:45 ET. The presentation will be available on the investor relations portion of the company’s website prior to the company’s presentation.

Audacy Philadelphia celebrated Operation Legacy, a home rehabilitation project in partnership with Travis Manion Foundation, with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony at local veteran Kris Giuranna’s home on May 19. The stations – including news/talk WPHT, all-news KYW, and sports talk WIP-FM – teamed up to provide United States Marine Corps veteran a home fit for a hero and honor his contributions to the country. Audacy Philly SVP and market manager David Yadgaroff says, “It is so rewarding to watch this project come to life. Audacy Philly, along with our partners Travis Manion Foundation, Window Nation, Impriano Roofing and Main Line Pro Painting, are thrilled to honor Kris and his service to our country by providing him with the needed renovations for his new home.”

The Newsmax syndicated radio program “The Rob Carson Show” adds new affiliate station news/talk WGMD-FM, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware to its roster of affiliates. Resort Broadcasting also operates news/talk WUSX-FM, Seaford Delaware and simulcasts most of the programming on the two stations. Rob Carson’s show airs on WGMD’s 92.7 FM frequency.

Industry News

Marlo Thomas to Be Honored at 48th Annual Gracie Awards

The Alliance for Women in Media announces that it will honor Marlo Thomas with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 48th Anniversary Gracie Awards on May 23 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles for her exceptional contributions to the industry. The evening will support AWMF’s educational programs, charitable activities, public service initiatives, and scholarships benefiting women in media and will include a specialim performance by Sofia Carson and Diane Warren. Presenters include 2023 Gracie winner Maria Shriver, Jodi Balfour, Camilla Luddington, and Rachel Lindsay among many others. AWMF president Becky Brooks comments, “Marlo Thomas is not only a true icon of the entertainment industry, but a visionary whose work has left a lasting impact on society. Her groundbreaking role as Ann Marie in ‘That Girl’ shattered stereotypes and opened doors for women in television. Furthermore, Marlo’s charitable and activist work with the Ms. Foundation for Women and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has transformed countless lives, making her a beacon of hope and inspiration to us all. She truly exemplifies the ethos of AWMF. We’re proud to honor her with this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Stories for Week of May 15-19

The surge of migrants seeking asylum in the U.S. and the Biden administration’s immigration policies came together as the top story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the negotiations between the White House and congressional leaders over the debt ceiling, followed by special counsel John Durham’s scathing report on the FBI’s Trump-Russia investigation at #3.  The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed in news/talk media this week. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Job Opportunity

Salem Media New York Looking for Sales Pro Seasoned in the Digital Space

Salem Media has an outstanding opportunity for a digital sales rep in the company’s New York market clusterim that includes AM 570 WMCA and AM 970 The Answer. Radio broadcasting background is preferred – especially applicants with an already existing book of business and contacts – but not entirely necessary for the right candidate. Interviewing now! Find out more and apply here. Salem Media is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Opportunity

Townsquare Media Has Opportunities for News and Talk Pros

Townsquare Media has open opportunities for news/talkers with exceptional leadership and digital content skills to join a few key markets across the nation. If you’re the total package with a compelling on-air presence, exceptional writing skills, and a desire to super-serve the local community, you’ll be set up for success at TSM.

96.5 KPEL needs a morning show host to wake up Acadiana and serve the community of Lafayette, Louisiana.im You’d be joining a dynamic and high-achieving team that likes to play as much as they win. Read the full listing here.

In Lubbock, Texas, KFYO “News/Talk 95.1 & 790” needs a strong media leader with AM programming skills to oversee the station and its growing newsroom. The ideal candidate is looking for a fun, vibrant community to dig their heels into and win over the listeners of Lubbock. Check out the listing here.

If the heat isn’t your thing, consider joining the 98-year-old WIBX, Utica, New York. This station is a major fixture in the market, having served generations of central New Yorkers and is not looking to slow down anytime soon. With a big birthday right around the corner, the ideal candidate will be able to jump in and use their programming and community-building skills to keep the station fresh, friendly, and full of life. That listing can be found here.

Interested talkers can email their resume and aircheck to TSM’s content recruiter at savannah.bullard@townsquaremedia.com or apply directly. Don’t forget to mention you saw the listing in TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

April 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

imApril 2023 PPM Data – Information for the April 2023 survey period has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford.

Nielsen Audio’s April 2023 sweep covered March 30 – April 26.

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 March 2023 – April 2023 (6+).

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media Group’s KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 5.6 – 5.5, -.1, fourth to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas’ KUT 5.3 – 4.7, -.6, fifth to seventh

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media Group adult hits KBPA, fourth month in succession, 8.7 – 9.7, +1.0

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: adult hits KBPA and rhythmic CHR KPEZ (+1.0)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: Spanish adult hits KLJA (-1.3)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 8.3 – 8.8, +.5, locked in the runner-up slot

News: Capitol Broadcasting-owned WRAL-HD3 “WRAL News+” flat at .3, #23 to #15

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 3.1 – 3.4, +.3, #11 to #8

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 7.5 – 8.0, +.5, anchored in third-place

Number One 6+: Urban One urban AC WFXC, fourth straight month, 9.6 – 9.3, -.3

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WQOK and CHR WDCG (+.8)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: country WNCB (-.5)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Urban One’s WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 8.1 – 6.4, -1.7, second to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” 2.9 – 2.6, -.3, #12 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 4.9 – 5.1, +.2, repeats in seventh-place

Number One 6+: Urban One adult contemporary WYXB, third month in a row, 9.0 – 8.4, -.6 and country cluster-mate WLHK, first month, 5.9 – 8.4, +2.5

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: country WLHK (+2.5)*

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: news/talk WIBC (-1.7)**

*Represents the largest March 2023 – April 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

**Represents the largest March 2023 – April 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” unchanged at 9.7, #2 to #1

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Bucks, Brewers) 7.4 – 9.2, +1.8, fourth to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” flat at 1.3, repeats at #16

Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” 1.2 – 1.0, -.2, stays at #17

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 2.1 – 2.8, +.7, #15 to #13

Number One 6+: news/talk WISN, first month, steady at 9.7

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: news/talk WTMJ (+1.8)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WKKV (-1.1)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 6.9 – 6.7, -.2, locked in fourth-place

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 1.0 – 1.3, +.3, #20 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” 4.9 – 4.1, -.8, sixth to eighth   

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) 1.1 – 1.3, +.2, #18 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 2.8 – 2.9, +.1, #12 to #13

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA, third month in succession, 14.7 – 13.3, -1.4

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: adult hits WCJK (+.8)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WJXA (-1.4)

PROVIDENCE

 News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 6.0 – 5.7, -.3, sixth to seventh

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .3 – .4, +.1, remains at #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Bruins, Celtics) 3.6 – 3.8, +.2, anchored in eighth-place

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 2.3 – 2.5, +.2, repeats at #10

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.2 – 3.4, +.2, steady at #9

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 1.7 – 1.5, -.2, #14 to #13

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI, seventh month in succession, 9.8 – 9.0, -.8

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WWBB (+1.0)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WWLI (-.8)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 2.6 – 2.8, +.2, #13 to #12

News: iHeartMedia-owned WNOH “BIN 105.3 Because Truth Matters” flat at .3, locked at #20

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.8 – 2.0, +.2, #16 to #15

Sinclair’s WTAR “Sports Radio 850” unchanged at .3, continues at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, fourth straight month, 10.9 – 9.4, -1.5

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: rock WNOR (+1.1)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: urban AC WVKL (-1.5)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 7.0 – 6.1 -.9, repeats in sixth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.3 – 3.2, -.1, flat at #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WSOL, first month, 7.8 – 8.1, +.3 and Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WEJZ, first month, steady at 8.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WJGL-HD2 and its internet stream (+.6)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: country WQIK (-1.4)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, repeats at #11

WZZR cluster-mate WJNO “News Radio 1290” 1.6 – 1.5, -.1, #12 to #13

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 1.1 -.8, -.3, #14 to #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” (Florida Panthers) steady at .5, stays at #18

iHeartMedia-owned WBZT “Sports Radio 1230 The Gambler” flat at .2, #19 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 2.1 – 2.5, +.4, tenth to ninth

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting classic hits-oldies WEAT, third straight month, 10.4 – 11.8, +1.4

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WOLL (+1.5)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican WLLY (-.9)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 5.1 – 5.2, +.1, anchored 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 – 2.0, -.6, #11 to #12

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.3 – 1.1, -.2, #15 to #13

Number One 6+: Audacy adult hits WSMW, fourth month in a row, 12.8 – 13.4, +.6

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: CHR WKZL (+.8)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WMAG (-.7)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.3 – 2.8, +.5, remains at #11

Starnes Media Group-owned KWAM “News Talk Memphis The Mighty 990” steady at .2, #20 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 3.8 – 3.2, -.6, seventh to tenth

WFMS’ internet stream .7 – .5, -.2, repeats at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.6 – 1.4, -.2, #13 to #14

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS, second straight month, 10.1 – 11.0, +.9

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WHRK (+1.4)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: sports talk WMFS (-.6)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 5.4 – 5.3, -.1, locked in sixth-place

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” 1.3 – 1.7, +.4, #15 to #14

WTIC-AM’s internet stream .4 – .6, +.2, #19 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 1.7 – 1.3, -.4, #14 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 5.4 – 5.2, -.2, sixth to seventh

New England Public Media’s WFCR steady at .4, #19 to #18

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 39th month in a row, 11.7 – 11.0, -.7

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WHCN (+1.6)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: hot AC WTIC-FM (-1.1)

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

Industry News

Drudge: New Prime Time Lineup Coming to FNC

The Drudge Report posts a story that says a major re-tooling of FOX News Channel’s prime-time programming is about to change. The report says current 9:00 pm ET host Sean Hannity will move to the 8:00 pm slot formerly held by Tucker Carlson, while hinting that current 10:00 pm host Laura Ingraham will exit as FNCim moves Jesse Watters (currently the 7:00 pm host) and Greg Gutfeld (currently the 11:00 pm host) into prime-time slots. However, relative to this, FOX News reportedly told Mediaite the following: “No decision has been made on a new prime-time lineup and there are multiple scenarios under consideration.” The Drudge piece also makes note of the recent ratings: “MSNBC on Monday beat FOX News in prime time in both total viewers and in the key 25-54 age demographic favored by advertisers. Rachel Maddow beat Hannity at 9:00 pm on Monday and helped boost MSNBC to 1.86 million average prime-time viewers and 188,000 prime-time demo viewers. FOX came in a close second with 1.72 million prime-time viewers and 174,000 prime-time demo viewers.” Read the Drudge story here.

Industry News

KNX-FM, Los Angeles to Present Town Hall on AI

Audacy’s all-news KNX-FM, Los Angeles is presenting a one-hour town hall broadcast titled, “Reality in an A.I. World,” live today (5/18) at 4:00 pm PT from the Audacy SoundSpace on L.A.’s Miracle Mile. The station says, “With A.I. a key sticking point in the ongoing Hollywood writers’ strike, the panel will feature actor, screenwriter,im producer and director Justine Bateman. Other panelists include Ramsay Brown, chief executive officer of the A.I. Responsibility Lab, Brandie Nonnecke, co-director of the Berkeley Center for Law and Technology, and others.” Audacy Southern California regional president Jeff Federman adds, “It seems like the impact of A.I. is suddenly everywhere you look and listen. Our audience wants to know how it will affect their lives, and they trust the team at KNX News to separate fact from rumor and hype.” Mike Simpson, host of “LA’s Morning News” on KNX, and Charles Feldman, host of “KNX In Depth” and “LA’s Afternoon News,” will serve as hosts of the commercial-free event.

Industry News

NPR News Now Keeps #1 Spot on Triton Digital Podcast Chart

Triton Digital releases its ranker of the top 100 U.S. podcasts for April 2023 based on Weekly Average Downloads and NPR’s “NPR News Now” stays at #1, followed by audiochuck’s “Crime Junkie” at #2, andim NPR’s “Up First” at #3, bumping Cumulus Podcast Network’s “The Ben Shapiro Show” to the #4 rank. Other commercial radio-related podcasts ranking high on this month’s chart include Cumulus Podcast Network’s “The Dan Bongino Show” (#7), Salem Podcast Network’s “The Charlie Kirk Show” (#17), and Cumulus Podcast Network’s “The Matt Walsh Show” and “Mark Levin Podcast” at #21 and #22, respectively. See the complete ranker here.

Industry News

WSCR, Chicago Producer Expected to Return After Suspension

According to several reports, Shane Riordan, producer for the “Parks & Spiegel” show on Audacy’s sports talk WSCR, Chicago “670 The Score,” is expected back in the studios today after serving a suspension for comments he made on the air last Friday. The matter began with a Twitter spat between Riordan and FOXim Sports gambling analyst Jason McIntyre in which crosstown news/talk WIND-AM, Chicago personality Dan Proft soon became involved. In the course of this being discussed by hosts on both WIND and WSCR, Riordan said, directing his words to Proft, “Dan, I’ll have sex with your mother,” and then adding, “Dan Proft, you bring your mother over here, and I’ll bone her.” When Audacy was asked for a comment by the Chicago Sun-Times, it declined to comment. Read the New York Post’s coverage here.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Remote News Service adds 13 new affiliate stations to its roster, including Alpha Media’s KTSA, San Antonio; Forcht Broadcasting’s stations in Paintsville, Kentucky, and Basin Mediactive’s stations in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Remote News Service president and lead anchor Lesley Lotto says, “We’ve always provided fill-in news anchors for vacations, illness, sudden departures, etc. Across the industry there’s been an increase in fill-in requests, especially from stations that need someone on the air in 6 to 12 hours, which we are able to provide.”

The Motley Fool announces that Chris Hill, longtime host of the “Motley Fool Money” podcast and radio show, is leaving at the end of the month. Taking over host duties is head of programming Dylan Lewis. Hill comments, “Getting the chance to create and host Motley Fool Money has been the highlight of my time at The Motley Fool. One of the things I’ve always loved is the team approach we’ve taken to helping listeners understand what’s happening on Wall Street, bringing a long-term perspective to daily market news, and offering stock ideas and analysis. We have a deep bench, and that same team approach will continue after I’m gone. With the show in such a position of strength, the time is right for me to explore the next chapter in my professional life.”

iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman and COO and CFO Rich Bressler will participate in a question and answer session during the J.P. Morgan Technology, Media and Communications Conference on May 23 at 5:15 pm ET. A live webcast of the session will be available to the general public at the start of the session through a link on the Investors homepage of iHeartMedia’s website and a replay of the webcast will be available in the Events & Presentation section of iHeartMedia’s Investors homepage.

Industry News

WFNC-FM Food Drive Assists Fayetteville Food Bank

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Cumulus Media’s news/talk WFNC-FM, Fayetteville, North Carolina announces that the station collected a total of 15,780 pounds of non-perishable food items for Fayetteville’s Second Harvest Food Bank through a food drive and live broadcast on Saturday (5/13). Morning show host Jeff “Goldy” Goldberg (pictured above posing for a picture with some donors) broadcast live from a Food Lion grocery store.