Industry News

Changes in Executive Positions at Audacy

Audacy chairman, president and CEO David J. Field announces that Audacy president of sports Mike Dee is leaving his full-time position with the company and EVP and head of corporate business development Tim Murphy is exiting the company. Dee is transitioning to a new role as a senior advisor to the company. Field says, “During his tenure, Mike spearheaded our company’s foray into the rapidly growing sports betting space, including his work establishing record-breaking, multi-year partnerships with FanDuel and BetMGM, acquiring BetQL and the launch of the BetQL Network. Mike approached me in February about redefining his role within Audacy, where he could continue contributing but free up some bandwidth to pursue other professional interests.” Regarding Murphy, Field says, “Tim has been with Audacy for 15 years, playing a critical leadership role. Early in his tenure, he was the visionary behind WEEI.com, a landmark radio digital platform that blazed a new trail of innovation for its time… Tim has led corporate business development and provided outstanding leadership with key strategic, entrepreneurial, and industry partners and customers. Tim helped lead a number of important company business initiatives and technological, digital, and enterprise enhancements, including spearheading Audacy’s expansion into the podcasting space – developing strategy, and driving the acquisitions of Cadence13, Pineapple Street, and Podcorn. He has also played an important leadership role in working in collaboration with NAB and others on industry issues.”

Industry News

KMOX, St. Louis Personality Carol Daniel to Retire

The Audacy news/talk station announces what it calls “a bittersweet day at KMOX” as longtime station personality Carol Daniel announces her retirement. KMOX says, “Carol has been a fixture of KMOX for 28 years of her 40-year-long broadcast career. She’s told the stories of St. Louisans with care, compassion and curiosity, and her work has been recognized throughout the region — she was named Press Club Media Person of the Year, she received the Greater St. Louis Association of Black Journalists Living Legend Award and the Media Hall of Fame Award, and she is a nominee for the Lincoln University Alumni Hall of Fame. Outside of her career in radio, Carol is a wife and mother, author, motivational speaker, and ministry co-leader, and looks forward to spending time with family in her retirement. Carol has produced countless impactful, in-depth interviews in her time here, most recently as the host of the expanded ‘Total Information AM.’ Her last day with KMOX is May 25. We will be sad to see her go but are so excited for her as she takes on this new chapter.”

Industry News

Audacy Feeling Out Users’ Interest in Paid, Commercial-Free Tier

According to a report by Matthew Keys at The Desk, Audacy has begun surveying users of its digital platform to see what they might be willing to pay for commercial-free streaming of its content. Keys writes, “The plan would see Audacy replace commercial breaks on its traditional AM and FM radio stations with ‘exclusive content like additional news, interviews or songs, all while remaining in sync with the live broadcast.’… The survey asked Audacy listeners to choose how much they’d be willing to pay for commercial-free radio, with the prices starting at $1 per month and going as high as $11 a month, according to a copy of the survey reviewed by The Desk. A follow-up question presented a similar list of options, but asked users to weigh in on the maximum price they’d be willing to pay before they thought a premium radio subscription was too expensive.” Read the story here.

Industry News

Report: Audacy Closes WEEI Offices in Rhode Island

GoLocalProv reports that Audacy is shutting down the Rhode Island offices of sports talk WEEI. Programming from WEEI, Boston airs on WVEI-FM, Westerly, Rhode Island and the company has operated sales and some programming out of offices in Warwick. There’s nothing to indicate the simulcast programming from WEEI will change or that any staff were let go in the move. It sounds as though the company is looking to cut the costs of operating the offices. Read the story here.

Industry News

TALKERS 2023 Panel Examines Podcasting Talk Radio Perspective

There’s a lot being said lately about podcasting but much of it is from the consumer or amateur perspective.  Within the talk radio business, podcasting plays an important but idiosyncratic role that has specific ties to talent, sales, and the extension of branding. The forthcoming TALKERS 2023 conference on June 2 at Hofstra University on Long Island will present a panel discussion charged with tightly focusing on the relationship between the talk radio industry – specifically its talent, stations and networks – and the burgeoning-but-murky world of podcasting.

Moderated by Lisa Wexler, talk show host, WICC, Bridgeport, CT, the panel will consist of (in alphabetical order): Heather Cohen, SVP, The Weiss AgencySteve Goldstein, CEO, Amplifi Media;  Ron Hartenbaum, managing partner, WYD MediaChris Oliviero, market president, Audacy New York;  David Pakman, talk show host/commentator, The David Pakman Show; and Larry Young, talk show host, The Larry Young Podcast.

 The session will aggressively address such questions as: What are the different types of podcasts associated with radio and what are their purposes? How can radio companies utilize podcasting to expand their brands while not watering down ratings or personnel energy?  What are the developing models for podcast monetization?  How can a talk talent use podcasting to forge an independent career? Plus a whole lot more.

The details of other panels and sessions addressing programming, sales, sports talk, career navigation, news and more will be posted in TALKERS during the next few days and weeks leading up to the big event.

TALKERS 2023 will take place on Friday, June 2 at Hofstra University on Long Island is on its way to an early sellout.  You can see the list of in-person speakers and get registration and hotel information here.

Industry News

NYPost: Could Carton Be Leaving WFAN for TV Gig?

Andrew Marchand’s New York Post column on Thursday (4/6) looks at the status of sports talk personality Craig Carton with Audacy’s WFAN, New York as his sources say management at cable TV’s FS1 – where Carton hosts a daily morning program – “are looking to own his exclusive rights.” Carton has been hosting “The Carton Show” weekdays from 7:00 am to 9:30 am on FS1 since September of last year in addition to the daily WFAN afternoon drive show he does alongside Evan Roberts. As Marchand writes, doing both shows is time consuming. Carton is up in the middle of the night to get to Midtown for the FS1 show, then does the WFAN show and gets home around 8:30 in the evening. Marchand also speculates that FS1 might believe that Carton’s TV show would draw more viewers if he wasn’t also on “The Fan.” It’s reported that Carton’s contract with Audacy expires later this year so WFAN would like to know what Carton’s plans are sooner rather than later.

Industry News

Audacy Insights: Radio Killed the Video Star

An Audacy Insights piece by company chief marketing officer Paul Suchman lays out the case that audio – radio/streaming/podcasts – is a more effective marketing tool than video (the traditional darling of media planners). Suchman writes that this argument “is among the ultimate tussles between media planners and publishers. While some may lean more heavily toward video, we at Audacy respectfully disagree.” He makes a five-point argument in audio’s favor saying it wins in reach, time spent using, is more immersive, activates all senses, and drives recall. Read the complete story here.

Industry News

Nikki Ramirez Joins Research Director Inc

Radio pro Nikki Ramirez (Cumulus Media Atlanta and Audacy Miami) joins Research Director Inc as sales & business development lead. Research Director says that “in this new position, Ramirez will accelerate radio stations’ awareness of Research Director’s powerful Programming & Ratings Toolbox, designed to provide a deeper understanding of market performance immediately after Nielsen’s data release.” Company CEO Marc Greenspan says, “We’re excited to leverage Nikki’s extensive radio industry knowledge and experience, both on-air and behind-the-scenes, to fuel our growth in helping radio stations across the U.S. maximize the value of data to improve both their ratings and their revenue. She joins our team at a pivotal time as we look to showcase our unique ability to help clients improve their programming effectiveness and sales success.”

Industry News

Robert Mangino Exits KDKA-AM, Pittsburgh

For reasons unexplained – but most likely due to budget cuts facing some Audacy stations – personality Robert Mangino exits the company’s news/talk KDKA-AM, Pittsburgh where he’s been host of the 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm program for the past 13 years. In a Facebook post, Mangino calls the KDKA gig his “dream job” and says, “I couldn’t be more thankful to program director Marshall Adams and GM/VP Michael Young, who brought me on at KDKA; to Jim Graci, who kept me around all of those years and Dave Labrozzi & Michael Spacciocoli, who helped keep my dream alive. And finally, there’s PJ Kumanchik, who was integral in bringing me to KDKA, he was there during my entire ride and in the process became one of my dearest friends.”

Industry News

Triton Digital Publishes February Streaming Ranker

Triton Digital releases its latest ranker of the top U.S. streaming companies for February, based on Average Active Sessions (Mon-Sun, 6AM-12AM). iHeartRadio remains in the #1 spot with 302,332 Average Active Sessions, followed by NPR Member Stations (77,381 AAS) at #2 and Audacy (54,141 AAS) at #3. Other commercial radio firms in the top 30 ranker this month include: Cumulus Streaming Network (40,953 AAS) at #4, Beasley Broadcasting Corporate (40,953 AAS) at #6, Hubbard Broadcasting (15,540 AAS) at #8, Urban One (10,281 AAS) at #10, and Salem Communications (8,533 AAS) at #12. See the complete ranker here.

Industry News

Audacy Names Ed Egros to Co-Host of “BetQL Daily”

Audacy adds Ed Egros as co-host of “BetQL Daily” on the company’s BetQL Network. Egros joins co-hosts Joe Ostrowski and Erin Hawksworth on the 9:00 am to 12:00 noon ET show beginning April 3. BetQL Network VP Mitch Rosen says, “Ed has become a leading voice on sports betting and analytics over the course of his career and we’re pleased to add him and his perspective to our weekday ‘BetQL Daily’ program alongside Joe and Erin. Through his wealth of experience in sports reporting and analysis, Ed will provide valuable insights to our listeners as they make their betting decisions, while using his expertise to break down games, analyze players and teams, and provide valuable betting tips, strategies and Wagertainment.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

WKBN-TV, Youngstown, Ohio reports that a Northeast Ohio couple are in custody in Columbiana County jail after an incident at The Original Road House in East Palestine. Ohio where John Fredericks, Steve Bannon and others were broadcasting live at a radio town hall event. The station reports Alfred Ferrara of Cleveland and Mary Schroeder of Hudson, Ohio showed up at the restaurant and created a disturbance. Ferrara is being charged with inducing panic and resisting arrest after threatening to shoot up the restaurant. The two left the scene and ended up at the village’s water and sewer plant where their car got stuck in a tank of raw sewage.

Audacy’s sports talk outlet WJFK-FM, Washington, DC “106.7 The Fan” announces a multi-year extension to its flagship broadcast and digital partnership with MLB’s Washington Nationals. As part of the extended partnership, Nationals baseball will continue to be heard on “106.7 The Fan” and streamed digitally via the Audacy app for fans within the Nationals broadcast territory. Audacy Washingon SVP and market manager Ivy Savoy-Smith says, “Opening Day is finally here, and we’re thrilled to celebrate the return of baseball season by extending our partnership with the Washington Nationals. We’re looking forward to continuing to serve as the home for everything Nats for the foreseeable future and give the team’s fans a front row seat to the action on the field and top storylines throughout the year.”

Focus360 promotes longtime director of sales planning Robbie Eisen to vice president of planning. The company says he has been instrumental in delivering results for hundreds of Focus360 clients since 2015. Also promoted is Erick Siqueira, who has been with the company as business development manager. He is now director of client services. In this new role within Focus360’s sales division, Siqueira will be working with agency planners and buyers across the country to promote the network programming.

Industry News

Jenna Weiss-Berman Rises to EVP of Podcasts for Audacy

Audacy promotes Jenna Weiss-Berman to EVP of Podcasts, taking over for Chris Corcoran, who leaves the company to pursue other opportunities. In this role, Weiss-Berman will oversee Audacy’s podcast network and studios, including Pineapple Street Studios and Cadence13, along with strategy and development of new podcast content and distribution partnerships. She will also collaborate with programming leadership in sports and news in the growth and development of new original podcast content for podcast studio 2400Sports and across Audacy’s 28 local newsrooms in top U.S. markets. Audacy chief digital officer and president, podcast and streaming J.D. Crowley says, “As we commit to accelerating our digital growth and enhancing performance, we’re thrilled to expand Jenna’s role to further unify and streamline our content and business efforts across our leading podcast portfolio, enabling even more rapid development of new and original IP and better leveraging our talent across the entire Audacy portfolio. Jenna’s strong leadership and deep industry relationships will propel us forward on our mission to be a leading partner of audio creators, while super-serving listeners of all backgrounds and interests and enabling our sales teams to better serve our customers and partners with unique and compelling podcast opportunities.”

Industry News

WPHT Raises $92,000+ for Travis Manion Foundation

Audacy’s news/talk WPHT, Philadelphia raises more than $92,000 in support of veterans in partnership with the Travis Manion Foundation. The funds were raised during the sixth annual “Talk Radio 1210 WPHT Travis Manion Foundation Radiothon” that took place on March 24. The event was hosted by station talent, including Rich Zeoli, Nick Kayal, Dom Giordano, Dawn Stensland and special guest Ryan Manion, Gold Star Sister and president of the Travis Manion Foundation, along with the team at the organization. Audacy Philadelphia SVP and market manager David Yadgaroff states, “Our WPHT listeners are extremely passionate and generous and it’s so gratifying when our friends, neighbors and advertisers rally together for a great cause. Our Philadelphia brands are long supporters of Travis Manion Foundation and the great work they do for veterans and families of the fallen in our local community and we’re pleased to team up with them once again to support their mission.”

Industry News

Audacy to Seek Reverse Stock Split

Audacy has filed a schedule 14a with the Securities Exchange Commission providing notice of its annual meeting of shareholders scheduled for May 24. At that meeting, shareholders will consider a number of proposals, including one to permit the board of directors to affect a reverse stock split of the company’s outstanding Class A and Class B Common Stock, at a ratio within a range between one-for-two and one-for-30. A reverse stock split reduces the number of shares that each shareholder owns but increases the value of each remaining share. Audacy says, “We are seeking shareholder approval for the authority to effectuate the reverse stock split as a means of increasing the share price of our Class A Common Stock to be at or above $1.00 per share in order to attempt to avoid delisting by the NYSE. We expect that the reverse stock split will increase the closing price per share of our Class A Common Stock to be above the $1.00 per share minimum price for the required number of days, thereby satisfying this listing requirement. However, there can be no assurance that the reverse stock split will have that effect, initially or in the future, or that it will enable us to maintain the listing of our Class A Common Stock on the NYSE. We are not aware of any present efforts by anyone to accumulate our Class A Common Stock, and the proposed reverse stock split is not intended to be an anti-takeover device.” Audacy was put on notice last August 1 that it was not in compliance with the minimum average closing price of $1.00 per share and faces delisting.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Today and tomorrow (3/28-29) the John Fredericks Media Network, Steve Bannon’s “War Room,” and Real America’s Voice are teaming up to conduct a live, two-day town hall meeting for residents of East Palestine, Ohio to tell their stories about the aftermath of the toxic train derailment that’s affected their lives on the air. The town halls take place today (3/28) from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm and Wednesday (3/29) from 6:00 am to 12:00 noon at The Original Road House in East Palestine.

Audacy’s Cadence13 Studios announces a partnership with Emmy and Golden Globe Award-winning writer, actress, producer and director Amy Poehler’s Paper Kite Productions – the production company behind shows including “Russian Doll,” “Broad City,” and “Harlem” – for a 30-episode comedy franchise featuring stories that parody and pay homage to popular themes in the podcast space. The franchise will be broken out into three seasons of 10 episodes. Each will focus on a central character and distinct theme; however, characters will make crossover appearances across stories and seasons.

Ratings Takeaways

February 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

February 2023 PPM Data – Information for the February 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 February 2023 sweep covered February 2 – March 1.

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 January 2023 – February 2023 (6+).

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media Group’s KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 5.1 – 5.5, +.4, anchored in fifth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio-owned KTXX “The Horn” 2.1 – 1.9, -.2, flat at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas’ KUT 5.3 – 5.6, +.3, remains in fourth-place

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media Group adult hits KBPA, second month in succession, 9.9 – 9.6, -.3

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: hot AC KAMX (+1.4)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KLQB (-1.0)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 8.3 – 8.0, -.3, locked in second-place

News: Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” 1.8 – 2.4, +.6, #16 to #14

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 3.1 – 2.7, -.4, repeats at #13

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 8.3 – 7.4, -.9, second to third

Number One 6+: Urban One urban AC WFXC, second straight month, 8.5 – 10.5, +2.0

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: urban AC WFXC (+2.0)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: gospel WNNL (-1.1)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Urban One’s WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 7.2 – 8.0, +.8, carries on in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” 3.0 – 2.9, -.1, locked at #12

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” .7 – .5, -.2, #18 to #19

Audacy’s WXNT “CBS Sports 1430” flat at .4, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 4.3 – 4.8, +.5, tenth to eighth

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK, second month in a row, 10.4  – 9.2, -1.2 and Urban One adult contemporary WYXB, first month, 9.3 – 9.2, -.1

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: news/talk WIBC (+.8)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: country WLHK (-1.4)

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 9.6 – 9.8, +.2, #1

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Bucks) 7.5 – 7.0, -.5, fifth to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” steady at 1.1, #16 to #15

iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” 1.7 – 1.0, -.7, #15 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 4.5 – 3.9, -.6, #7 to #11

Wisconsin Educational Communications Board’s WHAD unchanged at 1.1, #16 to #15

Number One 6+: news/talk WISN, second successive month, 9.6 – 9.8, +.2

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLDB (+1.0)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: country WMIL (-1.2)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 6.2 – 6.6, +.4, sixth to fourth

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 1.0 – 1.1, +.1, #19 to #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” 5.5 – 4.4, -1.1, seventh to eighth  

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) 1.2 – 1.1, -.1, locked at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 3.8 – 3.0, -.8, #10 to #12

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA, first month, 7.5 – 14.3, +6.8

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WJXA (+6.8)*

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WUBT (-1.8)

*Represents the largest January 2023 – February 2023 increase (6+) of any station from the 48 PPM-markets

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 5.0 – 4.9, -.1, anchored in seventh-place

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” flat at .4, repeats at #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Bruins, Celtics) 4.2 – 3.8, -.4, continues in eighth-place

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” steady at 2.5, #12 to #11

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.2 – 3.8, +.6, ninth to eighth

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 2.6 – 2.0, -.6, #11 to #13

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI, fifth month in succession, 10.5 – 8.2, -2.3

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: CHR WPRO-FM (+1.6)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WWLI (-2.3)**

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

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 2.8 – 2.6, -.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” steady at 1.8, repeats at #16

Sinclair’s WTAR “Sports Radio 850” .2 – .3, +.1, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, second straight month, 10.1 – 10.0, -.1

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WTWV (+1.7)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: rhythmic CHR WNVZ (-1.2)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 7.8 – 7.4 -.4, repeats in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.0 – 3.8, +.8, #13 to #10

Number One 6+: Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WEJZ, first month, 8.1 – 9.3, +1.2

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WEJZ (+1.2)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WJBT (-1.1)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 1.7 – 2.1, +.4, #11 to #10

cluster-mate WJNO “News Radio 1290” 1.7 – 1.5, -.2, #11 to #13

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” .9 -1.0, +.1, repeats at #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” (Florida Panthers) .9 – .7, -.2, #14 to #16

iHeartMedia-owned WBZT “Sports Radio 1230 The Gambler” flat at .2, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 3.1 – 2.6, -.5, seventh to eighth

co-owned WLRN-HD2’s internet stream flat at .2, #18 to #20

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting classic hits-oldies WEAT, first month, 7.3 – 10.2, +2.9

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WEAT (+2.9)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: classic rock WKGR (-.7)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 3.9 – 4.9, +1.0, remains 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 2.8 – 2.4, -.4, stays at #10

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.9 – 1.5, -.4, #14 to #15

Number One 6+: Audacy adult hits WSMW, second month in a row, 12.2 – 12.5, +.3

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: country WTQR (+1.1)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WMAG (-.9)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 3.9 – 2.9, -1.0, #8 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 3.9 – 4.0, +.1, eighth to seventh

WFMS’ internet stream .4 – .5, +.1, stays at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.4 – 1.1, -.3, #15 to #16

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO, 15th successive month, 11.8 – 10.6, -1.2

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WRVR (+1.5)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: hot AC WMC-FM (-1.3)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 5.1 – 5.7, +.6, eighth to sixth

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” unchanged at 1.0, continues at #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 2.0 – 1.6, -.4, repeats at #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 5.7 – 5.3, -.4, remains in seventh-place

New England Public Media’s WFCR and its internet stream are both steady at .4 and stay at #19

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 37th month in a row, 10.9 – 13.7, +2.8

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WRCH (+2.8)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: CHR WKSS (-2.0)

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

Ratings Takeaways

February 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Three

February 2023 PPM Data – Information for the February 2023 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 February 2023 sweep covered February 2 – March 1.

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 January 2023 – February 2023 (6+).

PORTLAND

News/Talk: Alpha Media’s KXL “FM 101 News” 6.6 – 7.0, +.4, repeats in fourth-place

iHeartMedia-owned KEX “News Radio 1190” 3.0 – 3.4, +.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 7.9 – 7.2, -.7, steady at #3

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLTH, first month, 9.1 – 8.9, -.2

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classical KQAC; alternative KNRK; and rhythmic CHR KXJM (+.7)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: adult hits KYCH (-1.6)

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk: Urban One-owned WBT AM & WBT-FM “Charlotte’s News Talk” 4.3 – 5.5, +1.2, eighth to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One’s WFNZ-FM “Sports Radio 92.7” (Hornets) 3.1 – 2.0, -1.1, #14 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: University Radio Foundation’s WFAE 3.3 – 3.5, +.2, #12 to #13

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group urban AC WBAV, second straight month, 8.3 – 8.7, +.4

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: news/talk WBT AM & WBT-FM (+1.2)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: sports talk WFNZ (-1.1)

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk: Alpha Media-owned KTSA “Stay Connected” 3.2 – 3.7, +.5, #13 to #10

iHeartMedia’s WOAI “News Radio 1200” (Spurs) 3.5 – 3.3, -.2, #9 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Texas Public Radio’s KSTX 2.2 – 2.0, -.2, #16 to #15

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM, second consecutive month, 7.2 – 8.9, +1.7

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies KONO-FM (+1.7)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: CHR KXXM (-1.6)

SACRAMENTO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM “News 1530 AM & 93.1 FM” 10.9 – 9.5, -1.4, #1

cluster-mate KSTE-AM “Talk 650” 3.8 – 4.7, +.9, eighth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KHTK “Sacramento Sports 1140” (Kings) 1.6 – 1.2, -.4, #17 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Capital Public Radio-owned KXJZ 3.9 – 3.8, -.1, seventh to ninth

Number One 6+: news/talk KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM, second month in succession, 10.9 – 9.5, -1.4

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: news/talk KSTE (+.9)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: news/talk KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM (-1.4)

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk: Audacy’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020 AM” 3.5 – 3.9, +.4, #12 to #10

KDKA-AM’s internet stream 1.1 – .9, -.2, #19 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan All Sports All The Time” 6.2 – 6.0 -.2, repeats in fourth place

Public Radio News/Talk: Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting’s WESA 4.5 – 4.2, -.3, eighth to ninth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW, third month in a row, 9.9 – 11.3, +1.4

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WWSW (+1.4)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: rock WDVE (-1.3)

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM “Talk Radio” 5.9 – 5.1, -.8, third to fifth

Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” 5.5 – 5.0, -.5, fifth to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Utah’s KUER 3.1 – 3.2, +.1, remains at #14

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KSFI, fourth straight month, 9.9 – 10.8, +.9

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: hot AC KBZN (+1.1)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease:  news/talk KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM (-.8)

LAS VEGAS

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KDWN “The Talk Of Las Vegas” 3.0 – 2.3, -.7, #13 to #18

co-owned KXNT “News Talk 840” 1.6 – 1.8, +.2, #23 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR 1.7 – 1.9, +.2, #20 to #19

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE, fifth successive month, 7.8 – 9.3, +1.5

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KSNE and classic hits-oldies KKLZ (+1.5)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: Spanish adult hits KWID (-1.8)

ORLANDO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKS “Real Radio 104.1” 6.1 – 5.2, -.9, fifth to eighth

Cox Media Group-owned WDBO “Orlando’s News Talk” 4.7 – 4.0, -.7, eighth to tenth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Community Connections-owned WMFE 2.4 – 2.6, +.2, #16 to #15

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMGF, fifth consecutive month, 8.2 – 8.5, +.3

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: country WWKA (+2.5)*

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: Spanish news/talk WRSO (-1.0)

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

CINCINNATI

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WLW “700 Cincinnati’s News Radio” 12.3 – 10.9, -1.4, #1

cluster-mate WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” 3.8 – 4.1, +.3, ninth to eighth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WCKY “ESPN 1530” 3.1 – 1.4, -1.7, #11 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Cincinnati Public Radio’s WVXU 4.8 – 4.3, -.5, fifth to seventh

Number One 6+: news/talk WLW, 13th consecutive month, 12.3 – 10.9, -1.4

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WRRM (+1.1)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease:  sports talk WCKY (-1.7)

CLEVELAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTAM “News Radio 1100” (Cavaliers) 5.0 – 5.1, +.1, repeats in tenth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” 5.5 – 4.0, -1.5, #8 to #12

WKRK’s internet stream 1.6 – 1.5, -.1, #15 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: Kent State University-owned WKSU 4.2 – 5.5, +1.3 #11 to #7

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI, fourth month in a row, steady at 11.1

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk WKSU (+1.3)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: sports talk WKRK (-1.5)

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KMBZ-FM “98.1 FM News, Traffic, Weather” 3.6 – 4.8, +1.2, #11 to #6

Cumulus Media’s KCMO-AM “Talk Radio 710 AM” .8 – 1.3, +.5, #21 to #19

Audacy-owned KMBZ-AM “Talk 980 AM” 1.4 – 1.3, -.1, #20 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KCSP “Sports Radio 610 Our Teams, Our Town” 3.2 – 3.0, -.2, #13 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KCUR 4.1 – 3.8, -.3, seventh to ninth

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic rock KCFX, first month, 7.8 – 8.2, +.4

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: news/talk KMBZ-FM (+1.2)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: alternative KCJK (-.5)

COLUMBUS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WTVN “News Radio 610” 7.0 – 6.7, -.3, fourth to third   

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Tegna-owned WBNS-FM “97.1 FM The Fan” (Blue Jackets) 8.7 – 5.8, -2.9, second to fifth

Public Radio News/Talk: Ohio State University’s WOSU steady at 7.2, third to second

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia country WCOL, fourth straight month, 9.5 – 8.9, -.6

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WZCB-HD2 (+.6)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: sports talk WBNS-FM (-2.9)**

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

Up next: February 2023 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. 

Industry News

“105.7 The Fan” Brings Back “Baltimore Baseball Tonight”

Audacy sports talk outlet WJZ-FM, Baltimore “105.7 The Fan” announces the return of “Baltimore Baseball Tonight” to its program lineup with the new season coinciding with the Baltimore Oriole’s Opening Day on March 30. New to the “Baltimore Baseball Tonight” broadcast team is Ryan Ripken, son of baseball legend Cal Ripken Jr. Ripken joins Bob Haynie – host of the midday “Vinny & Haynie” show – Baltimore Hall of Famer Mike Bordick, and longtime voice of Baltimore baseball Jim Hunter. 105.7 The Fan brand manager Chuck Sapienza comments, “We are thrilled to be bringing ‘Baltimore Baseball Tonight’ back to Baltimore baseball fans. The show was received so well last season, and we look forward to building off that momentum again this season. Adding Ryan to the team brings a critical young voice to the show, and his perspective having been a part of the organization and his deep family ties to the team are invaluable.” When the Orioles are home, the show is broadcast on-site at Pickles Pub near Oriole Park at Camden Yards.

Ratings Takeaways

February 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

February 2023 PPM Data – Information for the February 2023 sweep has been released for Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis.

Nielsen Audio’s February 2023 sweep covered February 2 – March 1.

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 January 2023 – February 2023 (6+).

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 3.4 – 3.8, +.4, repeats in seventh-place

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 7.8 – 8.6, +.8, third to the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” (Capitals) 2.7 – 3.1, +.4, #14 to #10

WJFK-FM’s internet stream 1.0 – .9, -.1, flat at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU 12.9 – 12.1, -.8, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, 15th month in succession, 12.9 – 12.1, -.8

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classical WETA (+.9)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk WAMU (-.8)

BOSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” 3.7 – 4.1, +.4, #11 to #9

News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” 5.3 – 4.6, -.7, fifth to sixth

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Celtics, Bruins) 8.8 – 7.5, -1.3, #1

Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” 3.9 – 3.2, -.7, #10 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR flat at 4.5, sixth to seventh

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.5 – 3.4, -.1, repeats at #12

Number One 6+: sports talk WBZ-FM, second consecutive month, 8.8 – 7.5, -1.3

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WMJX (+.9)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: sports talk WBZ-FM (-1.3)

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 4.1 – 5.3, +1.2, eighth to fourth

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WFEZ, second month in succession, steady at 8.9

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk WLRN (+1.2)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: classic rock WBGG (-.9)

SEATTLE

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” 6.1 – 5.4, -.7, second to fifth

News: Lotus Communications’ KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM “Northwest News Radio” 5.5 – 4.3, -1.2 third to ninth

Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” 3.0 – 2.4, -.6, #15 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio’s KUOW 4.9 – 5.5, +.6, sixth to fourth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic rock KZOK, first month, 4.3 – 6.5, +2.2

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classic rock KZOK (+2.2)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: triple A KPNW (-1.7)*

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

Note: KNUC flipped from country to triple A KPNW on February 14.

DETROIT

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 2.5 – 2.6, +.1, repeats at #16

News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” (Pistons) 4.6 – 5.0, +.4, eighth to ninth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Red Wings) 6.8 – 6.3, -.5, third to fourth

WXYT-FM’s internet stream 1.9 – 1.3, -.6, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 2.7 – 2.8, +.1, steady at #15

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic rock WCSX, first month, 7.3 – 7.4, +.1

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: CHR WKQI (+1.4)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WNIC (-1.1)

PHOENIX

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” 3.2 – 3.0, -.2, tenth to ninth

Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” (Sun) 2.4 – 2.9, +.5, #17 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona’s Sports Station” (Sun) 2.4 – 2.8, +.4, #17 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College-owned KJZZ 8.0 – 7.4, -.6, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KJZZ, second month in a row, 8.0 – 7.4, -.6

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: country KNIX (+.9)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KAZG (-.9)

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KTMY “My Talk 107.1” 3.1 – 3.4, +.3, #14 to #13

Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” (Minnesota Timberwolves) flat at 3.0, repeats at #15

iHeartMedia’s KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” 1.7 – 2.4, +.7, #17 to #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” (Minnesota Wild) 7.1 – 5.6, -1.5, second to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW 6.5 – 6.6, +.1, fifth to third

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KQQL, first month, 6.7 – 7.3, +.6

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: jazz KBEM (+1.2)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: sports talk KFXN (-1.5)

SAN DIEGO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” 6.1 – 5.6, -.5, repeats in fourth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” 1.9 – 1.6, -.3, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 6.9 – 6.3, -.6, first to second

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KXSN, first month, 6.4 – 6.8, +.4

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: rock KIOZ (+1.1)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KYXY (-1.3)

TAMPA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” (Lightning) 4.5 – 4.4, -.1, continues in ninth-place

iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” 2.4 – 2.1, -.3, #17 to #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” 1.8 – 1.2, -.6, #19 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 2.8 – 3.3, +.5, #15 to #11

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, 19th month in a row, flat at 7.8

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: country WFUS (+1.1)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: hot AC WMTX (-1.2)

DENVER

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOA “News Radio 850” 3.0 – 2.3, -.7, #15 to #17

co-owned KHOW “Talk Radio 630” 1.9 – 2.0, +.1, repeats at #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” (Nuggets) 4.7 – 4.2, -.5, sixth to tenth

Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 4.7 – 4.5, -.2, sixth to eighth

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOSI, fifth consecutive month, 6.2 – 6.1, -.1

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classic rock KRFX; classic hits-oldies KXKL; and public radio news/talk KUNC (+.6)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: news/talk KOA (-.7)

BALTIMORE

News/Talk: Hearst Television’s WBAL “News Radio 1090 AM & 101.5 FM” 3.9 – 3.5, -.4, #8 to #11

WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” steady at 1.7, #18 to #17

Cumulus Media-owned WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 1.2 – .7, -.5, #19 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” 5.4 – 5.1, -.3, sixth to fifth

Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 3.4 – 4.3, +.9, tenth to eighth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult hits WQSR, first month, 6.8 – 9.6, +2.8

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult hits WQSR (+2.8)**

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: CHR WWMX (-1.6)

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

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” 5.2 – 5.0, -.2, ninth to tenth

cluster-mate KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 1.8 – 2.3, +.5, #17 to #16

iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-FM “104.9 The Patriot” .7 – .8, +.1, remains at #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” (Blues) 3.5 – 3.2, -.3, #12 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 4.4 – 3.8, -.6, flat at #11

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting adult hits WARH, second month in succession, 10.2 – 9.8, -.4

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies KLOU (+1.0)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: triple A KDHX (-1.1)

Up next: February 2023 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

Industry News

Round One of February PPMs Released

The first of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s February 2023 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including 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’s February 2023 sweep covered February 2 – March 1. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeways from this group of markets. In New York City, Red Apple Media’s news/talk WABC-AM is flat with a 3.9 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) and falls to the #10 rank, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk WOR-AM is steady with a 1.9 share but rises one spot to the #18 rank. iHeartMedia’s news/talk KFI, Los Angeles is flat with a 4.1 share but rises one spot to the #5 rank in the market. In Chicago, Nexstar Media Group’s news/talk WGN-AM sheds two-tenths to finish with a 3.2 share good for the #10 rank, while Audacy’s all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM rises three-tenths to finish with a 4.8 share and remains ranked #4. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

Industry News

WEEI, Boston Host Suspended After Racist Remark

A number of media outlets are reporting on the incident that took place on the Wednesday edition of the “Greg Hill Show” on Audacy’s WEEI, Boston, including the Philadelphia Inquirer, that’s led to the suspension of co-host Chris Curtis. Hill, Courtney Cox and Curtis were discussing a local proposal to ban the 1.7-ounce liquor bottles commonly known as nips. When Cox asked about each host’s favorite nip and named several brands of liquor, Curtis replied, “I’d probably go Mina Kimes.” Nip is also a pejorative term for Japanese. Kimes is of Korean descent. When the Boston Globe reached out to Audacy for comment, the spokesperson declined to address it specifically but suggested Curtis meant to say Mila Kunis. Today, Curtis apologized on air and said he’s been suspended until next week. Curtis explained he didn’t intend to say Mina Kimes. “In a pathetic, failed attempt at a one-liner, I attempted to bring up Mila Kunis, which was not really that funny, sophomoric and sexist. But for reasons I don’t understand, I said Mina Kimes.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

— Cumulus Media’s Westwood One, the official network audio broadcast partner of the NCAA, is broadcasting live coverage of the Men’s Sweet Sixteen today (3/23) and tomorrow. It will also broadcast live coverage of the Men’s Elite Eight on Saturday and Sunday, as well as the NCAA Men’s Final Four on Saturday, April 1 and the national championship game on Monday, April 3 in both English and Spanish. It is also presenting exclusive live coverage of the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Championship, beginning with the Sweet Sixteen this weekend.

— PureFlix founder/CEO Michael Scott (right) poses for a picture with Salem Radio Network VP/news & talk programming Tom Tradup (left) at the SRN offices in Dallas while participating in the SRN News week-long series on Christian films titled, “Faith-based Films: Hollywood’s Brass Ring.” The SRN News special series focuses on the evolution of Christian movies from early, not-well-acted films to 2023’s smash hit Jesus Revolution, which has become Lions Gate Studios’ biggest-grossing film since 2019 with $45 million in box office receipts.

— Audacy announces a new programming lineup for CHANNEL Q, the Audacy Original Station and audio destination for music, news and entertainment by and for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. Audacy says that for the first time, CHANNEL Q will be live for East Coast mornings. The lineup is: CJ Robinson 6:00 am to 9:00 am ET, Jordin Silver 9:00 am to 3:00 pm ET, Alex Donati 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm ET, and Corey Crockett 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm ET.

— PodcastOne announces the release of a new podcast from Jax Taylor and Brittany Cartwright titled, “When Reality Hits with Jax Taylor and Brittany Cartwright.” PodcastOne president Kit Gray states, “Some of the biggest headlines splashed across today’s media are the ones about reality television and ‘When Reality Hits’ brings two of the biggest names to have ever starred in the genre together for a podcast that covers the ‘reality’ of reality TV, as well as the reality that sets in when you become a parent. We’re excited to unleash this show on fans and to bring a bird’s eye view of what happens when reality TV becomes real life.”

Ratings Takeaways

February 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

February 2023 PPM Data – Information for the February 2023 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.

Nielsen Audio’s February 2023 sweep covered February 2 – March 1.

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 January 2023 – February 2023 (6+). 

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” flat at 3.9, ninth to tenth

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” steady at 1.7, #19 to #18

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” locked at 4.6, remains in seventh-place

Co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 2.0 – 2.1, +.1, #17 to #16

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 3.3 – 2.6, -.7, repeats at #12

WFAN’s internet stream 2.0 – 1.4, -.6, #17 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.8 – 4.0, +.2, tenth to ninth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, fourth month in a row, 6.5 – 7.0, +.5

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (+1.0)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: sports talk WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM (-.7) 

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” steady at 4.1, sixth to fifth

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 2.8 – 2.9, +.1, #9 to #12

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.3 – 2.7, +.4, #16 to #14

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, eighth month in succession, 6.8 – 5.5, -1.3

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: urban contemporary KRRL (+1.1)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KOST (-1.3)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” (Blackhawks) 3.4 – 3.2, -.2, ninth to tenth

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 4.5 – 4.8, +.3, anchored in fourth-place

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 3.9 – 3.7, -.2, eighth to seventh  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, fifth straight month, 7.3 – 8.0, +.7

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLIT (+.7)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: CHR WKSC (-1.6)*

*Represents a tie for the largest January 2023 – February 2023  decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.9 – 6.0, -.9, second to third

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (Golden State Warriors) 2.7 – 2.3, -.4, #11 to #14

Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” 3.9 – 2.3, -1.6, #7 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 6.1 – 4.6, -1.5, repeats in fourth-place

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, fourth successive month, 8.1 – 7.9, -.2

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classical KDFC and alternative KITS (+.7)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: sports talk KNBR (-1.6)*

*Represents a tie for the largest January 2023 – February 2023  decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.4 – 2.6, -.8, #10 to #16

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” 2.5 – 2.3, -.2, #17 to #20

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) 6.2 – 5.6, -.6, #1

Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” 3.5 – 2.9, -.6, #9 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 3.1 – 3.0, -.1, #14 to #13

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media sports talk KTCK, second straight month, 6.2 – 5.6, -.6

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: urban contemporary KKDA-FM (+.6)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: news/talk WBAP (-.8)

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” flat at 3.8, stays at #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF steady at 3.1, repeats at #13

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, 24th consecutive month, 9.6 – 8.0, -1.6

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classic rock KGLK (+.8)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KODA (-1.6)*

*Represents a tie for the largest January 2023 – February 2023  decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 6.3 – 7.2, +.9, fourth to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks) 2.4 – 2.3, -.1, #14 to #18

Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” 1.7 – 1.6, -.1, #18 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 3.8 – 3.6, -.2, ninth to tenth

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, second successive month, 8.3 – 8.1, -.2

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classic rock WNNX (+1.2)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian WFSH (1.2)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 5.8 – 5.9, +.1, fifth to fourth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” 6.9 – 5.9, -1.0, second to fourth

WIP’s internet stream 1.6 – 1.8, +.2, repeats at #19

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers and Flyers) 1.6 – 1.7, +.1, #19 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 5.0 – 4.8, -.2, seventh to eighth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM, first month, 6.6 – 6.7, +.1

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WOGL (+.8)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: sports talk WIP (-1.0)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.2 – 1.9, -.3, continues at #16

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 4.4 – 4.2, -.2, seventh to sixth

Cluster-mate WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 3.6 – 3.3, -.3, eighth to tenth

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 5.1 – 4.2, -.9, fourth to sixth

Good Karma Brands’ WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Rangers, Islanders) flat at 1.6, #17 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic rock WAXQ, first month, 5.9 – 6.1, +.2

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: CHR WBLI (+1.6)**

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: sports talk WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM (-.9)

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

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, steady at .4, continues at #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, 15th consecutive month, 6.8 – 7.1, +.3

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: regional Mexican KSCA (+1.2)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: Spanish adult hits KLYY (-1.0)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.3 – 1.6, +.3, repeats at #19

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 7.4 – 6.8, -.6, locked in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” 4.3 – 2.7, -1.6, #7 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, ninth consecutive month 8.5 – 7.6, -.9

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: 1980s hits KOSF (+1.5)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: sports talk KNBR (-1.6)*

*Represents a tie for the largest January 2023 – February 2023  decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 7.1 – 6.3, -.8 remains in the runner-up slot

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 1.9 – 2.2, +.3, #14 to #12

Co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 1.1 – 1.5, +.4, #20 to #18

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 3.9 – 3.1, -.8, seventh to ninth

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Rangers, Islanders) 1.6 – 1.3, -.3, #18 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WMGQ, second consecutive month, 7.4 – 6.6, -.8

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: Spanish tropical WSKQ (+.8)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WMGQ; news/talk WKXW; and sports talk WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM (-.8)

Up next: February 2023 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.

Industry News

Bill Frady Named Late Morning Host at 106.3 WORD, Greenville

Audacy’s Greenville, South Carolina news/talk WYRD-FM “106.3 WORD” names Bill Frady host of the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon program. Frady has been with the station hosting the Sunday program “LockNLoad” and serving as a fill-in host. He now expands his role with the station to the new daily program, “Straight Talk with Bill Frady.” Audacy Greenville-Spartanburg SVP and market manager Steve Sinicropi states, “Bill Frady has provided great content doing swing shifts on ‘106.3 WORD’ for years. Bill is a native Greenvillian, a recognized firearms expert, and a tremendous conservative voice that will complement WYRD-FM’s incredible news and talk talent lineup. Adding Bill Frady to our full-time, on-air team will provide great content for listeners and new opportunities for advertisers. I look forward to hearing Bill on the air and on the station’s expanded 100,000-watt signal.” Previously, Audacy announced the plan to move WORD’s talk programming to the 98.9 frequency in which the station will be branded “News/Talk 98.9 WORD.”

Industry News

Black Business Beat Clears Audacy’s Hip Hop WXBK-FM, New York

Bloomberg Radio announces that its clearing of “Bloomberg Black Business Beat” content on Audacy’s hip hop WXBK-FM, New York “94.7 The Block” represents its “breakout into music radio formats, with business and money stories of interest to Black Americans that complement and enhance the music programming they love.” Bloomberg Radio is distributed and repped by Key Networks. The “Bloomberg Black Business Beat” is hosted by journalist Justin Milliner and topics addressed range from the latest trends in Black-owned businesses and profiles of Black entrepreneurs, to a continuing look at diversity in the workplace and an inside look at the business of entertainment. Bloomberg Radio Syndication head Michael Lysak says, “‘The Block’ is such an important part of the soundtrack of New York City. We are proud to be a part of it. Justin Milliner does a masterful job of sharing stories of vital importance to Black Americans, without The Block’s music missing a beat. Here’s to Audacy for recognizing that reports like this don’t interrupt the programming – they enhance it.”

Industry News

Audacy Announces BetQL Countdown to Tip-Off

Audacy announces the return of “BetQL Countdown to Tip-Off,” a three-episode series of special men’s college basketball tournament programming. The series airs on March 18, March 25 and April 1 from 8:00 am to 10:00 am ET on BetQL Network, Audacy’s network of sports betting content heard across its broadcast portfolio and digital platforms. The program is hosted by Nick Kostos and Ken Barkley, co-hosts of “You Better You Bet.” The show on March 18 will broadcast live from the BetMGM Sportsbook at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas as part of Audacy’s exclusive partnership with BetMGM. Audacy president of sports Mike Dee says, “The men’s college basketball tournament is the premier playoff tournament in American sports, and we’re excited to bring back this informative and entertaining program. Whether you’re trying to win your office pool or cash in on this year’s bracket, ‘Countdown to Tip-Off,’ with Nick and Ken will have you covered with their expert analysis of all the madness this March.”

Industry News

“92.9 The Game” in Atlanta Unveils New Morning Show

Audacy sports talk outlet WZGC-FM, Atlanta “92.9 The Game” announces the launch of its new “morning sports and lifestyle show” called “The Morning Shift on 92.9 The Game” that stars (pictured from l-r) Tiffany Blackmon, Mike Johnson and Beau Morgan and airs from 6:00 am to 9:00 am. The trio takes over for current morning host John Fricke, who will continue with the station in a new role to be announced at a later date. “92.9 The Game” brand manager Mike Conti says, “Tiffany, Mike and Beau are going to offer a unique combination of perspectives on sports, culture, current events and day-to-day life that our listeners will find to be informative, entertaining and funny. They’ve quickly developed a chemistry that I think will lead to a fast-paced, fun, high-energy show each morning.” Blackmon also serves as a sideline reporter on ESPN’s coverage of college football and the XFL. Johnson played for the Atlanta Falcons for five years and has been working in TV and radio in Birmingham and Atlanta. He’ll also be a part of the Atlanta Falcons Radio Network’s pre- and post-game shows. Morgan is a 15-year veteran of sports radio in Atlanta, most recently as the executive producer of the station’s afternoon drive show, “Dukes and Bell,” and the Atlanta Falcons Radio Network. Along with the new morning show, the station will also launch a new early morning show called, “The Hometown Take,” hosted by morning show producer Dylan Mathews that airs from 5:00 am to 6:00 am.

Industry News

“95.7 The Game” San Francisco Drops PM Show, Unveils New Lineup

Audacy announces the new program lineup at sports talk KGMZ-FM, San Francisco “95.7 The Game.” Gone from the afternoon drive daypart are Damon Bruce and Ray Ratto, who exit the station. Moving to the afternoon show (2:00 pm to 6:00 pm) is the duo of Mark Willard and Dan Dibley. The station’s morning show featuring Bonta Hill and Joe Shasky adds an hour and is now heard from 6:00 am to 10:00 am, while midday hosts Matt Steinmetz and Daryle “The Guru” Johnson are now heard weekdays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Industry News

Audacy Names Chase Daniels OM for Cleveland Stations

Audacy announces that programming pro Chase Daniels is the new operations manager for the Cleveland station group that includes sports talk WKRK-FM “92.3 The Fan” and four music stations. Daniels moves to Cleveland from the company’s Madison, Wisconsin cluster where he served in a similar role. He takes over for Dave Popovich, who recently retired. Audacy Cleveland SVP and market manager Tom Herschel says, “Having Chase join us from our stations in Madison is a testament to the depth of talent at Audacy and the work he’s done there. We couldn’t be more pleased to welcome Chase to Cleveland.”

Industry News

Audacy Boosts Coverage Area for Greenville’s News/Talk WYRD-FM

A frequency swap between Audacy’s news/talk WYRD-FM and adult contemporary WSPA-FM on March 28 will give the news/talk outlet substantially better coverage in the Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina market. WYRD-FM will rebrand as “News/Talk 98.9 WORD, The Voice of the Carolinas” and enjoy the expanded reach provided by the 100,000-watt Class C signal while WSPA-FM moves to the 25,000-watt Class C3 signal at 106.3 FM. Audacy says the change gives WORD access to a quarter million more adults 35+ from the South Carolina/Georgia border to Asheville, North Carolina, while covering parts of four South Carolina congressional districts and several North Carolina congressional districts. Audacy SVP and market manager for Greenville-Spartanburg Steve Sinicropi comments, “We are committed to delivering quality audio and content with our massive reach to our audiences. There is a tremendous demand for news/talk content in the Greenville-Spartanburg-Anderson-Asheville area. The signal flip allows us to maximize our reach even further across the region and more broadly meet the needs of our listeners and advertisers across the Carolinas.”

Industry News

Audacy Using Veritone Attribute for Enhanced Data and Analytics

Veritone, Inc announces that Audacy is using its Veritone Attribute to improve and enhance data and analytics reporting for advertising customers. Veritone says, “Through the addition of Veritone Attribute, Audacy will supplement their ability to prove the efficacy of broadcast ad campaigns by sharing directional insights with advertisers as to how their campaigns are performing over a cross section of Audacy’s portfolio of radio brands. With these insights, advertisers will be better able to evaluate campaign performance on Audacy stations in comparison to other mediums. Research has shown that advertisers who receive attribution reporting spend more year-over-year and cancel their ad campaigns less often on average than those who don’t measure performance.” Audacy chief revenue officer Brian Benedik states, “As we aim to best serve our clients, Veritone Attribute will further enable us to optimize advertisers’ campaigns and maximize their ad dollars. There has never been a better time to leverage the power of audio to tap consumers, and this technology will complement our existing capabilities.”