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WLS 890 AM, Chicago Morning Host Ramblin’ Ray Stevens Kicks Off “The 12 Strays of Christmas,” Highlighting PAWS Chicago Pets in Need of Forever Homes This Holiday Season.  Every day for 12 weekdays starting yesterday (12/5), WLS 890 AM morning host, Ramblin’ Ray Stevens is featuring on-air and on social media a PAWS Chicago pet that’s available for adoption. PAWS Chicago is a no-kill animal shelter for homeless pets.  Kicking off the parade of adorable, adoptable pets was Finley, an energetic and playful three-month-old puppy with a heart full of love and a tail that never stops wagging! With soft, fluffy fur and floppy ears, he’s always on the move, ready for a game of fetch or a snuggle on the couch. Stevens tells TALKERS, “We call them rescues, as if we are saving them, when in fact, they are actually saving us. Nothing will ever love you like a shelter pet.”

WABC Radio Partners with GOYA Foods and Gristedes to Support PAL Annual Holiday Party.  WABC, New York has partnered with Goya Foods and Gristedes Supermarkets to support the Police Athletic League (PAL) Annual Holiday Party. Five thousand pounds of food will be handed out to 450 PAL families by WABC Radio owners John and Margo Catsimatidis and WABC Radio personalities Ernie Anastos and Dominic Carter. The event will take place at the PAL Harlem Center, 441 Manhattan Ave. and West 119th St., tomorrow (12/7).  “We are long-time supporters of PAL, an organization that has changed the lives of many at-risk youths,” said John Catsimatidis, who hosts a monthly luncheon to raise funds for PAL. “I want to thank Goya Foods for joining us to help PAL families enjoy the holidays with a healthy and satisfying meal.”  WABC is also running on-air promos, asking listeners for donations at wabcradio.com/pal.

FOX Nation’s Patriot Awards  will be held this evening at the Tilles Center for Performing Arts in Brookville, NY on Long Island featuring an array of the network’s top personalities and a variety of award recipients. The Patriot Awards honors and recognizes America’s patriots, including military veterans, first responders and other inspirational everyday heroes. America’s heroes will be honored in a number of categories, including the “T2T Stephen Siller Back the Blue Award,” “FOX Weather Ultimate Patriot Award,” “FOX Nation Award for Service to Veterans,” “FOX Nation Salute to Service Award,” “FOX Nation Young Patriot Award,” “FOX Nation Culture Warrior Award,” “FOX Nation Award for Bravery” and “FOX Nation Award for Courage.” It will be streamed live on FOX Nation beginning at 8 pm ET. An encore presentation will air on FNC on Sunday, Dec. 8, at 10 pm ET. It was announced last night by Sean Hannity (who will serve as emcee of the event) on FOX News Channel that president-elect Donald Trump will be attending the event and receive the Patriot of the Year award. For more information, please click HERE.

Early Bird Deadline for the Milestone 50th Gracie Awards Approaching. The AWM Foundation invites all content creators to submit their exceptional work for the historic 50th Annual Gracie Awards. With the Early Bird Deadline approaching on December 12, 2024, now is the time to take advantage of discounted entry fees and secure your place in celebrating the best in media. As the Gracie Awards commemorate 50 years of recognizing excellence, it is more important than ever to honor the exceptional talent in front of and behind the camera and microphone across radio, podcasting, television, streaming, and online programs in news and entertainment. The Gracie Awards recognize contributions from journalists, actors, hosts, producers, showrunners, writers, directors, and other roles that bring impactful stories to life. Each entry directly supports the AWM Foundation, with the Gracies serving as the largest fundraiser of the year.  “This year’s milestone celebration reflects our continued commitment to honoring the talent that shapes the stories of our time,” said Becky Brooks, president of the AWM Foundation. “We encourage local media to participate and take advantage of the best rates and prepare to celebrate together in 2025.”  For a complete list of new and updated categories for 2025, pricing, and submission guidelines, please visit https://allwomeninmedia.org/gracies/call-for-entries/. Questions can be directed to gracies@allwomeninmedia.org.  The Gracie Awards is the largest fundraiser of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation which advances women in media through educational programs and scholarships. The Gracie Awards honors exemplary programming and individual talent created by, for and about women. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has created partnerships and joint initiatives with the Emma Bowen Foundation, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), NCTA – The Cable and Telecommunications Association and other organizations that are philosophically aligned with the mission of the Foundation. For more information about The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation and the Gracie Awards please visit allwomeninmedia.org. For the latest news on the Gracies, follow The Gracies on Instagram, X, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Broadcasting Consultant Valerie Geller Drops Third Edition of Classic Book. Beyond Powerful Radio – The New Edition: An Audio Communicators Guide to the Digital World (Focal Press 2024).  In this newly updated edition, industry pros as well as aspirants will find a complete guide to becoming a successful communicator. Beyond Powerful Radio teaches time-tested techniques that work in any format – radio, TV, podcast, or digital. Learn how to get, keep, and grow audiences with powerful storytelling, and become a dynamic presenter. This book holds the tools needed to create winning content; tell compelling stories; build your brand; develop talent; produce a show; report the news; sell; and write commercials. Practical tips and methods from over 50 top experts from across the world of media illuminate interviewing, managing talent, becoming an authentic personality, and getting started in the business. This fully revised edition features new sections on podcasting, social media, storytelling, artificial intelligence, and cross platform synergy.  Whether you’re a professional with years in the industry, an instructor with a class full of media hopefuls, or you are just starting out as a podcaster or radio host, this book will help you reach your goals. A full Instructor Manual is available with complete lesson plans for broadcast instructors.  For more info, please click HERE.

Premiere Networks nationally syndicated personality Elvis Duran, host of “Elvis Duran and the Morning Show,” was featured on “CBS Sunday Morning” this past weekend (12/1).  Duran was interviewed by correspondent Mo Rocca for an in-depth piece about the magic of radio and how his personality has won him loyal fans, including some of the biggest names in pop music. Duran also discussed how his love for radio began when he was a young child. He shared that the special connection with on-air personalities is what originally drew him to the platform and that unique friendship continues to inspire him every day.  Duran stated, “We are in the friendship business. I think about you (the listener) when you hop in your car in the morning. You’re either leaving a house that may be full of turmoil or going to a job with a boss you don’t like, but I have you for 20, 30 minutes, and I can be your friend,” said Duran. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, “CBS Sunday Morning really nailed it with this piece. When the radio industry started telling DJs to ‘shut up and play the music’ and then backed it up by firing almost all the talented disc jockeys to save money, they basically forfeited their ownership of the popular music culture in America – not to mention the very backbone of radio itself, friendship and companionship. Endangered species like Elvis Duran are among the greatest ‘talkers’ out there and prove the potential for integrating talk and pop culture successfully can still keep the idea of ‘radio’ alive for years to come. The terms ‘disc jockey’ and ‘top 40’ are so obsolete.  This is a wonderful permutation of ‘talk radio’ and should be regarded as such.  I hope everyone in the business watches this past Sunday’s report.” Click HERE to watch.

Proving how important live and local weekend news/talk radio can be, New York City Mayor Eric Adams stopped by for an in-studio interview on this past weekend’s edition of “The Rob Astorino Show” (Saturdays 4:00 – 5:00 pm on 710 WOR), where he discussed the idea of working with “Border Czar” Tom Homan in the next administration, and shared his thoughts on the Daniel Penny subway chokehold trial. Pictured above: Astorino (left) and Adams (right) at iHeart’s NYC headquarters. To listen to Saturday’s show (11/30), most of which featured Adams’ guest appearance, please click HERE.

Pew Study:  Newsmax among Top U.S. News Brands.   The ratings competition for eyeballs and eardrums between multi-platform news content providers has grown increasingly fierce as burgeoning interest in politics – especially during this remarkably heated 2024 election cycle – has driven huge audiences to information venues seeking the latest data and ideological affirmation. The correlation between MSNBC’s notable ratings declines after the “Morning Joe” visit to Mar-a-Lago illustrated the sensitivity of branding and audience expectations within this volatile arena.  So, what media outlets did Americans turn to for political news during the heated 2024 presidential election?  Pew Research did some digging to find out and Newsmax has earned bragging rights for being among the top U.S. news brands for Americans seeking political news. The Pew survey for September of 2024 asked close to 10,000 Americans: “What news source do you turn to most often for political news?”  The question was open ended — with Pew giving no possible responses as respondents gave their own answers.  The Pew Study found Newsmax ranked among the top news outlets and networks and tied with media giants X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube — as respondents’ go-to source for citizens seeking political news. Newsmax even ranked ahead of the Associated Press and local news, and was just one percentage point behind NBC, CBS, MSNBC, and The New York Times.  Major established news outlets FOX News, CNN, and ABC News led the pack. “Multiple studies continue to show Newsmax is a major news player, and we are continuing to rise,” Newsmax Inc. CEO Chris Ruddy tells TALKERS. “The credit belongs to our team here and our viewers who are tired of old media and want the quality journalism we’re providing.” The Pew study confirms a recent Reuters Institute study that found Newsmax was one of the top 12 U.S. news brands for Americans.  The Reuters study found 8% of Americans — about 25 million Americans — turn to Newsmax on cable TV for their news at least weekly.  Starting as a conservative website, Newsmax was launched as an entrepreneurial initiative in 1998 by then-independent journalist Ruddy and expanded to include a TV network in 2014 .  Today, Newsmax estimates it reaches more than 40 million Americans through its television channels, online websites, and social media. The company has raised over $100 million for its Preferred Share Offering in its pre-IPO plan and expects to close soon.

Bloomberg Audio Renews Multi-Year Deal With Audacy.  Radio syndication firm, Key Networks and Bloomberg Audio, a leading provider of radio business news in the U.S., announce that Bloomberg Audio and Audacy have renewed their agreement to deliver Bloomberg Audio business and consumer news programming across the majority of Audacy’s 26 all-news and news talk stations. Audacy owns and operates many of the most influential news and news talk stations in America, including 92.3 FM and 1010 WINS in New York, News KNX-FM 97.1 and 1070 AM News Radio (KNX-AM/FM) in Los Angeles, WBBM Newsradio (WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM) in Chicago, and more. Bloomberg Audio has been Audacy’s primary business and consumer news provider for several years. Under the new multi-year agreement, Bloomberg Audio will continue to provide Audacy stations with access to its world-class radio news content, including live, customized reports, “Bloomberg Money Minutes,” and specialty features including: “Bloomberg Business of Sports,” “Bloomberg Business of Entertainment,” “Green Report,” “Small Business Report,” “Real Estate Report,” and more.  “We’re thrilled to extend our partnership with Bloomberg Radio, a trusted leader in business news, to continue delivering top-tier, timely financial and consumer content to our listeners,” said Jeff Sottolano, chief programming officer, Audacy. “This collaboration strengthens our commitment to providing unparalleled business news coverage across our all-news and news talk stations, ensuring our audiences have access to the insights and information they need.”

Rumble Will Host the Uncensored Fourth Season of “Surviving Barstool.” Rumble, the high-growth video platform and cloud services provider, announced that the much-anticipated fourth season of “Surviving Barstool” will move to Rumble, unedited and uncensored, beginning today (12/2). Rumble users and Barstool fans can subscribe to the Barstool Sports Rumble channel here and tune in to watch this season here. YouTube will only carry the censored version of “Surviving Barstool.” “Surviving Barstool” follows 24 of the biggest Barstool employees competing against each other for a $250,000 prize while trapped in the office. The final winner will be decided by the employees who were voted out along the way.

iHeartMedia Philadelphia is teaming up with Boost Mobile and Cradles to Crayons® to launch the “Boost Up for Winter” campaign, a large-scale community coat drive in support of the Cradles to Crayons® Gear Up for Winter initiative. From now (12/2) until Sunday, December 22 the drive will aim to collect and distribute 20,000 warm winter coats and other essential items to children and families in need across the Greater Philadelphia area. Cradles to Crayons® distributes donated items via a robust network of Service Partner organizations including hospitals, schools, and community centers.  As winter approaches, many families face the harsh reality of inadequate protection against cold weather. Too often, the cost of winter wear and boots are out of reach for the more than 300,000 children living in low-income or homeless situations in Greater Philadelphia. Through this campaign, iHeartMedia Philadelphia and its partners are committed to ensuring that local children have the clothing and essentials necessary to stay warm at home, at school, and at play throughout the season. For more information on the campaign, including participating Boost Mobile store locations please click HERE.

Mural in a Phlash! During these dark, cold days of disappearing promotional budgets and AI voice tracking, how many radio personalities get their likeness painted in a mural on the side of a building?  Well, that warm honor came in one of the coldest places east of the Mississippi River to SiriusXM “’60s Gold” channel morning personality Phlash Phelps in Bradford, PA.  Pictured above: local artists and phans, Greg Souchick (l) and Rick Minard (r) expressed their appreciation for the popular music host with a huge mural on the side of a building in downtown Bradford at 181 Main Street.  Phelps was overwhelmed by the rendering and said he’s headed up to north central Pennsylvania to see it himself.  We’re not sure if any other radio talent has ever had such a tribute.  Phelps said, “I’ve had a racehorse named after me and a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol, but I’m truly stunned by this incredible mural.  My phans are phantastic!”  Part of Phelps’ schtick is he spells all Fs with PH.  He is known for his fast-talking, retro style of broadcasting and for making American geography a focal point of his show. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, “Phelps is a remarkably creative disc jockey who uses the element of ‘talk’ in a most entertaining and productive way by tying local towns, villages and communities around America into his show and saluting each with special attention to detail. He is my seven-year-old grandson and geography buff, Oliver Harrison‘s favorite radio star. Don’t think I don’t take notice of such things.” Phelps is heard nationally on SXM’s channel 73 M-F 6:00 am – 12:00 noon ET.

We See a Pattern of Philanthropy Developing Here.77WABC, New York has continually been using its powerful platform to support charities and people in need – in addition to creating exciting live and local talk radio. The station is partnering now with Shriners Children’s™️for a multi-media campaign that will increase awareness and support for the mission of providing The Most Amazing Care Anywhere™️. Started on November 18 and running through Giving Tuesday on December 3, 77WABC is running promos on air and in its e-newsletter soliciting donations to Shriners Children’s healthcare system. WABC Radio personality and legendary New York TV anchor Ernie Anastos is the voice of the campaign. On Giving Tuesday, WABC will expand the promotion to include a stream display on the 77WABC app, video social media posts from all talent, and pre-rolls on its podcasts, with the call to action to donate to Shriners Children’s. Donations to Shriners Children’s on Giving Tuesday will be 3X matched by one of their supporters for triple the impact on children’s health. In addition, on Giving Tuesday listeners will be invited to donate $225 per person to the WABC Radio Foundation, with net proceeds earmarked for Shriners Children’s, to be part of an intimate, 40-person audience for a live broadcast of “Sid & Friends In The Morning” with host Sid Rosenberg (pictured above). The live broadcast will take place in January at Studio 77, WABC Radio’s state-of-the-art audio/video event space. These audience members will have the opportunity for a picture with Sid and will receive a Shriners Children’s “Love to the rescue” blanket. In addition, a silent auction to benefit Shriners Children’s will take place for listeners attending the live broadcast, who will have the opportunity to bid on Shriners Children’s “Love to the rescue” blankets. “Shriners Children’s gives hope to children and their families across the country and around the world, regardless of their ability to pay,” said John Catsimatidis, owner of Red Apple Media and WABC Radio. “At WABC Radio, we are proud to help support Shriners Children’s mission to deliver specialty medical care to children.”  “77WABC is committed to serving our community across the New York City area,” added Chad Lopez, president, Red Apple Media and WABC Radio. “By partnering with Shriners Children’s, we are able to bring awareness and help raise funds for their charitable mission.”

Cox Media Group’s Atlanta Radio Stations Collect Over 8,700 Pounds of Food Providing 12,272 meals for Georgia Families. Cox Media Group Atlanta’s radio stations (including heritage news/talker WSB) partnered with the Atlanta Community Food Bank to collect 8,782 pounds of food leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday. The effort by KISS 104.1 (WALR), 95.5 WSB (WSBB-FM/WSB-AM), B98.5 (WSB-FM) and 97.1 The River (WSRV) generated 12,272 meals for food-insecure individuals in Georgia. “We have the best listeners in Atlanta. Each year they support these terrific events and help us do good for the communities we serve,” said Chris Eagan, SVP audience/programming for Cox Media Group. “This is what live and local radio is truly all about.”  “We are grateful to the Cox Media Group radio station teams and personalities who continue to show an unwavering commitment to supporting the Food Bank’s efforts during the holiday season,” said Kyle Waide, president/CEO of the Atlanta Community Food Bank. “Our partnership with Cox Media Group helps us amplify the prominent issue of food insecurity among our neighbors, and these events underscore the generosity and willingness of the community to help those in need.”  During the holidays, food becomes a focal point for many family gatherings, which deepens the despair felt by many neighbors who are already struggling. Thirteen percent of Georgians and 18 percent of children in Georgia are estimated to be food insecure. Among communities of color, food insecurity can be as much as two or three times higher than their white neighbors. Every dollar donated can make a giant impact. The Food Bank’s processes and partners help them transform every dollar donated into up to three meals.

The celebration of Thanksgiving and Black Friday this week marks the start of one of the biggest shopping seasons of the year. With money on the table, both brick and mortar and e-commerce retailers need to capture consumer attention. This week’s Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group® blog examines how AM/FM radio can deliver results for retailers this holiday season. Insights include:

• AM/FM radio advertising drives retail results:AM/FM radio reaches 77% of adults 18+ during Thanksgiving week and 78% during Christmas week

• AM/FM radio reaches consumers on the path to purchase:AM/FM radio has an 86% ad-supported in-car share of audio

• AM/FM radio drives store traffic:AM/FM radio boosted store traffic for home improvement, quick service restaurants, beauty retailers, and car dealers all saw store traffic lift

• AM/FM radio delivers digital impact for e-commerce retailers:AM/FM radio increases site traffic and has strong conversion from awareness to sales

• AM/FM radio has a proven track record for retail:AM/FM radio generates $16 of retail sales for every $1 of radio advertising.

Check out today’s blog post by clicking here..

KIRO Newsradio is announcing the upcoming retirement of one of Seattle’s most influential and trusted broadcasters, Dave Ross. After 47 years with the station, Dave will step down on December 19, leaving a legacy that has deeply impacted both KIRO Newsradio and the Seattle community. In addition to Dave’s retirement, Colleen O’Brien, who has been a key voice on “Seattle’s Morning News” alongside Dave for many years, will also be stepping away from her role. Colleen’s last day on air will also be Friday, December 19th. Colleen has been an integral part of the morning show, providing sharp insights and a compassionate presence to Seattle listeners.

“Dave has not only been a trusted voice in Seattle but a powerful example of journalistic excellence,” said Tanya Vea, president/CEO of Bonneville International. “For nearly five decades, his dedication to truth and commitment to the Seattle community have left a lasting impact on KIRO Newsradio and beyond. We are deeply grateful for his service and the legacy he leaves behind.”  “Dave’s curiosity and talent for making complex topics accessible is truly unique,” Bryan Buckalew, KIRO Newsradio director of news and talk programming said. “While his daily presence will be greatly missed, we honor his extraordinary career and the lasting legacy he has created at KIRO Newsradio.” Dave joined KIRO Newsradio in 1978 as a news reporter and anchor, quickly becoming a trusted voice for listeners across the Pacific Northwest. Known for his thoughtful commentary and balanced perspective, he has encouraged listeners to think critically about important issues for nearly half a century.

In 1987, he began hosting “The Dave Ross Show,” where his engaging storytelling and sense of humor made complex topics accessible and relatable. Since 2013, Dave has anchored “Seattle’s Morning News,” guiding Seattleites through daily headlines with clarity and insight. To celebrate Dave’s remarkable career, KIRO Newsradio will feature special on-air tributes, including appearances and messages from current and former colleagues. Local VIPs and prominent figures in the Seattle community will honor Dave’s legacy. Listeners are invited to share their own memories and tributes on MyNorthwest.com/DaveRoss, commemorating the moments that Dave has touched their lives. The station tells TALKERS, “‘Seattle’s Morning News’ will continue with a new host in 2025, aiming to uphold the high standards that Dave has set over his 47 years with KIRO Newsradio.”

Today (11/21), Triton Digital released its Canada and U.S. Podcast Rankers for October 2024. The rankers are measured by Triton’s Podcast Metrics measurement service, and both include a reporting period of September 30, 2024 – November 3, 2024.

U.S. highlights include:

• Top podcasts based on downloads included “NPR News Now“ (NPR) at #1, “Up First” (NPR) at #2, and “The Dan Bongino Show” (Cumulus Podcast Network) climbing to #3.

• Top podcasts for listeners were “NPR News Now” (NPR) at #1, “Up First” (NPR) climbing to #2, and “Morbid” (Wondery) climbing to #3.

• Top podcast debuts included “Kill List” (Wondery), “Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus” (Lemonada Media), “The Colin Cowherd Podcast” (iHeart Audience Network), “Two Girls One Ghost” (Audioboom), and “The Political Scene | The New Yorker“ (Soundrise/PRX).

• Triton Digital also welcomed a new network to both its U.S. and Canada Podcast Rankers – Lemonada Media.
Please see the Canada release HERE and the U.S. release HERE for the full findings.

Nielsen Media Research: Morning Joe Ratings Plummet After Co-hosts Meet with Trump. Nielsen numbers indicate that the MSNBC “Morning Joe” show ratings suffered a significant drop on Tuesday (11/19) after co-hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski announced that they met with President-elect Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago. “Morning Joe” delivered one of its lowest-rated programs of 2024 with just 680,000 viewers and 76,000 in the 25-54 demo on Tuesday. Tuesday was the show’s third lowest broadcast of 2024. Compared to the show’s 2024 average, Tuesday’s broadcast plummeted 38% with viewers and 37% in the 25-54 demo. And compared to Monday’s broadcast, the show was also down double digits seeing a 12% decline with both viewers and A25-54.

WPG, Atlantic City Morning Legend Harry Hurley Makes Prestigious List. The InsiderNJ.com Annual New Jersey Power List 2024 has again placed longtime WPG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley as one of the Garden State’s most politically influential citizens (11/20). It is always released on the Wednesday of the New Jersey League of Municipalities Conference. Hurley placed in the #48 position on this year’s list. Power lists are nothing new for Hurley who came in at #25 on the 2024 TALKERS “Heavy Hundred” list of the 100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison says of Hurley, “If talk radio were boxing, Harry Hurley would be its ‘pound-for-pound’ champion.”

Hercules, Hercules! Yup that is Hollywood Legend Kevin Sorbo and WRVA, Richmond Afternoon Mainstay Jeff Katz. Actor Kevin Sorbo was in town to deliver a speech and he took the time to appear on the Jeff Katz Show. Katz presented Sorbo with a Julia Katz bracelet which is made by Emily Morrissey, a local artist with special needs, who sells her work at http://www.emilysbracelets.com  and then donates the profits to a variety of charities including The Friendship Circle of Virginia which benefits from the sale of each Julia Katz bracelet. Julia Katz is the adult daughter of Jeff Katz who has faced special needs challenges since birth and has been the inspiration for the radio star’s enormous humanitarian contributions over the years to money- and consciousness-raising in the Richmond market.

Jon Hull Named Vice President Emeritus at Hope Media Group.  Hope Media Group (HMG) – a ministry of Christian-oriented media brands – announces Jon Hull as its new vice president emeritus, effective January 1, 2025.  In his new position, Hull will use his extensive experience to help lead and encourage the on-air donor acquisition teams, while also working with those teams that engage existing and lapsed donors off-air. In addition, Hull will join the leadership team that strategizes support drives and programming initiatives. “I’m so grateful Jon Hull will become Hope Media Group’s vice president emeritus. This title is one of distinction and honor – something Jon has more than earned in his 28 years of service to God through this ministry. I consider Jon a national treasure, as does the Christian radio industry,” shared Joe Paulo, CEO of Hope Media Group.

Canada’s Rogers Sports & Media Lays Off Dozens of Radio and Podcast Employees. According to an article by reporter Manuela Vega in the Toronto Star (11/19), Canadian broadcasting giant Rogers Sports & Media – reflecting major cutbacks taking place in the U.S. radio industry – has laid off more than two dozen employees in the company’s radio and podcasting divisions, citing declining revenue and challenges in advertising.  “With the radio industry continuing to feel the pressure of an uncertain advertising market, we made some difficult but necessary changes in our audio business impacting roles in several markets,” a Rogers Sports & Media spokesperson told the Star in a statement last night. The company said the job losses included a “handful” of journalists, as well as some managerial and administrative positions, but noted there would be no closures or terminations of stations, programming or podcasts. “We recognize and thank the team members who are leaving us for their dedication to our listeners and advertisers,” the statement read.  To read the complete article, please click here.

Lotus Seattle Corp in Seattle, Washington is seeking an enthusiastic, highly motivated Account Executive/Radio Sales-Account Executive. The company is looking for someone who can connect with clients and help them achieve their business objectives through effective Broadcast and digital advertising. The ideal candidate will possess excellent communication skills, have an enthusiastic and outgoing personality, along with a drive to succeed. Most importantly – they are looking for hard-working salespeople who want to have FUN at work, make money, and help local businesses grow.  Compensation: · $55,000 – $70,000. Salary plus commission which varies by product and platform.  This role is also eligible for various benefits, including the following:  medical and dental insurance, vision, basic life insurance, 401K plan, plus more.  Lotus Seattle Corp. is a subsidiary of Lotus Communications Corp. and is a media, entertainment and digital marketing services company that owns and operates radio properties. Lotus Communications Corp. operates 48 radio stations in the Western United States including stations in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Sacramento, Boise, Tucson, Fresno, Seattle and Bakersfield.  To apply, please send your resume to hr@lotuscorp.com.  For more information about the position and its requirements, please click here. 

For the last 10 years, Edison Research’s quarterly “Share of Ear” study has been a highly respected examination of time spent with audio in America. Edison surveys 4,000 Americans annually to measure daily reach and time spent with all forms of audio. Each report is based on a four-quarter rolling average. The most recent Q3 2024 survey is comprised of Q4 2023, Q1 2024, Q2 2024, and Q3 2024. This week’s Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group® blog is an analysis of the just released Q3 2024 data and focuses on what advertisers care most about – ad-supported audio.

• Among major demographics, AM/FM radio is the dominant ad-supported audio platform. Podcasts have significant shares among younger age groups.

• Among African Americans, AM/FM radio is particularly strong. Podcast shares are not as strong as the general market.

• Among Hispanics, podcast shares are stunningly strong. Among 18-34 Hispanics, podcasts are now the number one ad-supported audio platform.

• In the car, AM/FM is the “queen of the road” with an 86% share. Even among 18-34s, AM/FM radio has an 82% share of ad-supported audio.

• 13% of all AM/FM radio listening occurs via streaming, steady over the last three years. On the smart speaker, AM/FM radio dominates with a 50% share of ad-supported listening.

• Sadly for advertisers, most of Spotify’s audience is unavailable to place advertising. While Spotify’s ad-free subscription audience soars, its ad-supported shares stagnate at a two share.

• Streaming music audience growth comes at the expense of owned music rather than AM/FM radio.

Check out today’s blog post here.

To download the Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group analysis report of Edison Research’s “Share of Ear,” click here.

New Gunhill Road song celebrating talk radio dropping soon.  The group is currently in the final stages of production with an anthem celebrating talk radio. Titled “Don’t Stop Talkin’” – the song is an uplifting and infectiously catchy tune about the vital role talk radio plays in serving the cause of American freedom of speech.  With lines that include “As long as you’ve got a voice, don’t ever stop!” and “As long as you’ve got the truth, don’t ever stop!” the original composition co-written by band members Steve Goldrich, Paul Reisch, Brian Koonin, and Michael Harrison encourages talk radio practitioners to keep up the good work and great service they provide the nation. The images accompanying the music include a dynamic montage of individual radio talk hosts in the process of doing their shows.

Formed in New York back in the late-1960s, Gunhill Road music has received more than a quarter million downloads worldwide in recent years with such songs as “Artificial Intelligence (No Robots were Injured in the Production of this Song)” www.obsoleteslobs.com, “I Know You’re Real” www.IKnowYouAreReal.com, “Damn Scammers” www.ScammersVideo.com,  “I Got a Line in New York City” www.IGotaLine.com, and more.

For more information about Gunhill Road please visit www.GunhillRoadMusic.com.

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. (MIW) tells TALKERS they are thrilled to introduce Nikki Kuniej as the first mentee for the non-profit’s newly launched Digital Sales Mentorship Program. As director of digital strategy at Saga Communications’ Charleston Media Solutions, MIW states, “Nikki exemplifies the spirit of this program with her dedication to growth and community service. She brings a passion for driving strategic growth for local businesses.” Beyond her career, Kuniej is deeply involved in her community, serving as a Big Sister and board member for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry. She is active with the Charleston Chamber, where she contributes to the Regional Policy Committee, Thrive Ladies Networking, and the Regional Housing Coalition. Her contributions have not gone unnoticed; she was honored as a 2023 “One to Watch,” a Charleston Business Journal 40 Under 40 recipient, and a 2024 recipient of the RAB’s “Rising Thru the Ranks” award. Supported by its sponsor, Beasley Media Group, this program will provide Nikki with invaluable mentorship from top digital leaders. As the 2024-2025 mentee, Kuniej will engage in monthly coaching sessions with a Digital Mentor and leading digital experts, gaining valuable insights and guidance to drive her career forward. “I am overjoyed to be selected as the MIW Digital Mentee,” says Kuniej. “It’s the opportunity of a lifetime to have personal access to such accomplished and high achieving women for a year. Heading into 2025, I set a personal goal to focus on professional development, and this is the ideal way to start the year.”  “We are thrilled to support such an impactful mentoring program that underscores the critical role of digital innovation in our industry,” said Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley. MIW board president Ruth Presslaff adds, “Nikki’s dedication to her professional growth and community service truly embodies the spirit of this mentorship. We’re eager to see the impact she’ll make as she continues to thrive in her career. With leaders like Nikki, the future of radio is promising – and with the support of companies like Beasley Media Group, our ability to offer meaningful mentorship opportunities is stronger than ever.” For more information on all MIW mentorship programs, please visit www.radioMIW.com.

Today is Veterans Day 2024 (11/11) – an extremely important date on the news/talk media calendar.

In honor of Veterans Day and to support the veteran community, Beasley Media Group is dedicating the entire month of November to shining a spotlight on the important services available for veterans and their families. Through its Beasley Best Community of Caring initiative, the company will air public service announcements, conduct interviews with veteran organizations, and share stories across its 57 radio stations to raise awareness about resources and services for those who have served.

Beasley Media Group has partnered with organizations such as the Cohen Veterans Network and Home Base Veteran and Family Care to help provide critical information and support. These organizations provide a variety of services ranging from mental health support and family care to employment resources for veterans and their families.

In the Fort Myers market, special public service announcements will air across all five Beasley radio properties throughout Veterans Day, highlighting the valuable programs and services offered by Home Base Florida.

“We would like to thank our valued veterans for their outstanding service and show support to them and their families,” said Beasley Media Group chief communications officer, Heidi Raphael.

Throughout the initiative, Beasley Media Group will encourage listeners to learn more about the services offered by these organizations and to support veterans not just during the month of November, but year-round.

The West Coast’s highly popular talk radio “power couple,” Robin Bertolucci and her husband Don Martin have stepped away from their longtime positions with iHeartMedia (11/8) – Bertolucci as program director of heritage giant KFI AM 640, Los Angeles and Martin as EVP of programming, iHeartMedia Sports (which includes FOX Sports Radio) and PD of sports talk AM 570 KLAC, Los Angeles.After nearly a quarter century of exemplary service in these positions, the ambiguous terms cited for the couple’s simultaneous departure do not mask the general industry observation that they were direct victims of the national radio cutbacks being affected by iHeartMedia as severe cost-cutting measures.  Chris Berry, iHeartMedia EVP of news, will assume the role as interim program director of both KFI and KLAC.

In the New York City market, the morning team of generalist Michael Riedel and sports talker Len Berman has met a similar fate at the legendary AM 710 WOR. Included in the cut – their show’s producer Terry Trahim, after more than 20 years of service to the station.

Multi-talented Scott Sands, iHM SVP of programming for the Ohio-West Virginia area and PD /afternoon host of WSPD, Toledo has also been let go.

Joe Pags impacted. In San Antonio, although he remains one of the most successful syndicated hosts in American talk radio with a rapidly growing roster of more than 170 stations coast to coast, Compass Media Networks star Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo‘s local highly-rated afternoon show of 19 years at his flagship WOAI (where he is a market legend) has been dropped from the lineup as a cost-cutting measure. Pags is one of talk radio’s most notable rising stars and will undoubtedly be okay – but his departure from WOAI is indicative of the wrecking ball nature of these types of budget-cutting measures.

There are more cutbacks being reported at iHM stations throughout the industry.

TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, “It is a dark moment in talk radio when the cutback ax falls on such good people who have devoted so much precious time, talent, and loyalty to their company, this industry and our professional community.  I’m in no position to tell companies how to run their businesses and protect their embattled assets in times of financial distress… but on a human level – not to mention in recognition of the fragility of this historic cultural scene to which we all contribute and hold an emotional stake – it’s downright heartbreaking.”

To see a recent interview with Joe Pags conducted by Michael Harrison on the video podcast “Up Close Far Out,” please click here.

BFoA Launches Annual Year-End Giving Campaign For Donations to Help Colleagues in Need.  The Broadcasters Foundation of America has launched its annual Year-End Giving Campaign, which seeks to raise donations from tax-deductible personal contributions to the Guardian Fund and corporate contributions to the Angel Initiative. The Broadcasters Foundation, a 501c3 charity, is the only charity devoted exclusively to helping colleagues who are in dire need of monthly or emergency financial assistance due to life-altering illness or a disaster. “We are devoted exclusively to providing aid to colleagues in broadcasting who are suffering from extreme illness, or hardship from a devastating disaster,” stated Tim McCarthy, president of the Broadcasters Foundation. “We also take care of colleagues who have retired. Grants are supported solely by contributions from individuals and companies within our industry and offer a ‘hand-up’ to our colleagues during trying times. We’re asking everyone in broadcasting to please consider including the Broadcasters Foundation in your 2024 charitable giving.”  Over the past 20 years, the Broadcasters Foundation has distributed over $15 million in aid to colleagues nationwide, across all states and territories, who need it most. “Requests for aid continue to grow exponentially as more of our peers and their families are affected by severe illness or disasters, such as the recent flurry of destructive hurricanes,” explained Scott Herman, chairman of the Broadcasters Foundation. “Whether it’s a monthly grant or one-time aid in response to an emergency, the Broadcasters Foundation is often a refuge and beacon of hope for colleagues whose lives have been upended by unforeseen and tragic circumstances. Please consider a donation. Donations go directly to helping our colleagues who are in desperate need.”  For more information about the Broadcasters Foundation, including how to apply for aid or make a donation, visit www.broadcastersfoundation.org, or contact 212-373-8250 or info@thebfoa.org.

Benztown, a global leader specializing in radio imaging, voiceover, programming, podcasting and jingles, announces the release today (11/7) of two new episodes of its series “Chachi Loves Everybody,” an original podcast hosted by its president Dave “Chachi” Denes. These episodes feature Chachi’s special guests Al Roker, longtime weatherman on NBC’s The Today Show and co-anchor of the iconic morning show’s third hour, and Patsy Smullin, owner/president of California Oregon Broadcasting, and host of the successful television interview series, Up Close and Personal.  Roker and Smullin will be among those honored next week as Giants of Broadcasting by the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation at the 2024 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony. The event will be held on Tuesday, November 12th at Gotham Hall in New York City.  To listen to these new “Chachi Loves Everybody” podcast episodes, please click here. For more information about the 2024 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony, and for a full list of honorees, please click here.

In an example of just how contentious sports talk radio can be, long-time Boston sports talk radio host Fred Toucher did not hold back in slamming his old partner, Rich Shertenlieb, whose new show was cancelled this week. Toucher, who now co-hosts “Toucher & Hardy“ on 98.5 The Sports Hub, WBZ-FM, Boston took some time on this morning’s show (11/5) to address ”the elephant in the room.” Shertenlieb‘s new show on local classic rock outlet WZLX had been canceled after five months, and Toucher didn’t seem to have any sympathy for his former partner.  In a story by reporter Nick O’ Malley posted on the news site MassLive.com, “I hate him,” Toucher said. “So, I was happy yesterday when I heard about this. But I was a little disheartened that he still carries none of the responsibility and takes none of the blame and still just can’t be honest.”   Toucher and Shertenlieb co-hosted the “Toucher & Rich” show from 2009-2023, working together to produce one of Boston’s most popular morning shows. However, the show ran into issues in 2023. Toucher missed time due to personal and physical issues, including a stretch of time at an alcohol detox facility. In November, parent company Beasley Media said in a statement that Shertenlieb declined to accept a new contract.  On Monday, Shertenlieb announced that he was “disappointed” that his show was being canceled after just five months. The radio host complained that management forced him to “alter the format” of the show by adding music.  However, Toucher noted Tuesday that Shertenlieb’s show was a “ratings disaster.”  “He not only did not bring in a new audience to that show, he alienated – based on ratings – their entire existing audience,” Toucher said. “He had like a third of the ratings that they got jockless in the morning … Yeah, management might have been a little concerned.”  Toucher said that critics can paint the picture of his reaction however they like. But he did note that he and co-host Jon Wallach say they weren’t alone in celebrating the demise of Shertenlieb’s show.  To see the complete article in MassLive.com, please click here.

According to an article published yesterday (11/3) in The New York Times written by reporter Andrew Higgins, when a state-funded Polish radio station canceled a weekly show featuring interviews with theater directors and writers, the host of the program went quietly, resigned to media industry realities of cost-cutting and shifting tastes away from highbrow culture. But his resignation turned to fury in late October after his former employer, Off Radio Krakow, aired what it billed as a “unique interview” with an icon of Polish culture, Wislawa Szymborska, the winner of the 1996 Nobel Prize for Literature. The terminated radio host, Lukasz Zaleski, said he would have invited Szymborska on his morning show himself, but never did for a simple reason: She died in 2012. The station used artificial intelligence to generate the recent interview – a dramatic and, to many, outrageous example of technology replacing humans, even dead ones. Zaleski conceded that the computer-generated version of the poet’s distinctive voice was convincing. “It was very, very good,” he said, but “I went to her funeral, so I know for sure that she is dead. ”The technology-enabled resurrection of the dead poet was part of a novel experiment by Off Radio Krakow, an arm of Poland’s public broadcasting system in the southern city of Krakow. The aim was to test whether A.I. could revive a moribund local station that had “close to zero” listeners, according to the head of public radio in Krakow. The station also planned from-the-grave interviews with other dead people, including Jozef Pilsudski, Poland’s leader when it regained its independence in 1918. Novelty value – and a storm of public outrage – worked to bolster Off Radio Krakow’s audience, which the head of Radio Krakow said grew to 8,000 overnight from just a handful of people after the introduction of three A.I.-generated Generation Z presenters – Emilia, 20, Jakub, 22, and Alex, 23, each of whom had a computer-generated photograph and biography on the station’s website. Less welcome than the audience surge, however, has been a barrage of abuse directed at the public broadcasting system and accusations that it was sacrificing humans on the altar of technology.  To read the entire article published yesterday in The New York Times, please click here.