Tag: Detroit

Front Page News Industry News

Wednesday, May 18, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Round Two of April PPMs Released. The second of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s April PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: Washington, DC, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen’s April 2022 sweep covered March 31 – April 27. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways for this round of markets. In Boston, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WRKO sheds four-tenths to finish with a 4.3 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) but rises to the #7 rank, and sister all-news WBZ-FM dips by eight-tenths to finish with a 4.7 share and remains ranked #6. Bonneville International’s news/talk KIRO-FM, Seattle loses 1.1 shares and wraps the survey with a 6.3 share that pulls it out of first place to #2. Meanwhile, Lotus Communications’ crosstown all-news KNWN-AM/FM dips by seven-tenths for a 4.3 share finish good for the #9 rank. In the Twin Cities, Audacy’s news/talk WCCO loses half a share for a 3.8 share finish and the #13 rank, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk KTLK-AM sheds six-tenths for a 3.0 share and the #14 rank. And Hubbard Broadcasting’s talk KTMY-FM ticks up one-tenth for a 2.7 share finish good for the #15 rank. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets (as well as the first round) here.

 

WOLB-AM, Baltimore Morning Host Larry Young Recovering from Leg Amputation. The Baltimore Sun reports that WOLB-AM, Baltimore morning drive host Larry Young is recovering after having surgery to remove his leg below the knee, the result of an infection in his foot that was complicated by his Type 2 diabetes. The 72-year-old Young has been off the air since April 10. He’s been hosting the morning show on Radio One’s WOLB-AM for the past 25 years and is planning to retire from the station at the end of this year. As noted in a story below, Young is being honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from TALKERS magazine at TALKERS 2022 at Hofstra University on June 10. Young tells the paper that he expects to be back on the air in June and back to normal activities by August.

 

Cumulus-Signal Hill: YouTube Most Used U.S. Podcast Platform. The latest Podcast Download – Spring 2022 Report from Cumulus Media and Signal Hill Insights that examines weekly podcast listeners has been released. Cumulus says the report is part of its commitment to share insights and research findings with the podcast community. Cumulus EVP, marketing and president, Westwood One Suzanne Grimes says, “Our new Podcast Download Report uncovers a major surge in video podcast audiences as YouTube becomes the most-used platform to access podcasts. Podcast advertising reaches millions of younger consumers who have abandoned linear television for advertising-free video streaming services.” Some highlights from the report: 1) Six in 10 weekly podcast listeners say they prefer podcasts with video. When asked how they prefer listening to podcasts, 28% say they like a podcast video they actively watch while listening and 29% indicate they have the video in the background/minimized while listening. 43% say they use audio only with no video; 2) YouTube is now the leading audience destination. When asked which platform they listen to the most to access podcasts, 24.2% say YouTube, followed by Spotify (23.8%) and Apple Podcasts (16%); 3) The greater the time spent with podcasts, the more the podcast ads generate consumer response and business outcomes. As a result of hearing a podcast ad, heavy podcast listeners (those who listen six-plus hours per week) are more likely to have searched online for a product, discovered a new product/service, made a purchase, used a promo code, or followed a brand on social media. See the complete report here.

 

Edison Research: SiriusXM Top Podcast Network by Reach. According to just-released data from Edison Research, the Top Podcast Networks in the U.S. for the first quarter of 2022 are: SXM Media, Spotify, and iHeartRadio, respectively. This ranker measures reach as a percentage of the weekly podcasting audience. Rankings are compiled by measuring the total unduplicated reach of all the shows represented by a given network. Listening is credited to the producer and/or the network that represents the advertising for the show, not the platform or app that the listener uses to access the podcast. Rounding out the top 10 are: 4) NPR 5) The New York Times 6) Audioboom 7) Audacy 8) Cumulus Podcast Network 9) Wondery and 10) PRX. Edison Research director of research Gabriel Soto says, “Edison Podcast Metrics is the only dataset that covers the entire U.S. podcast space. By surveying listeners and measuring their actual consumption, the data doesn’t depend on opt-ins from networks and isn’t subject to the various issues with counting downloads. These top networks offer a diverse range of shows that appeal broadly to listeners.”

 

TALKERS Announces Recipients of 2022 Awards. Ian Freeman, Mandy Connell, Larry Young, and Jeff Katz to be recognized at TALKERS 2022.

Ian Freeman is the co-host, along with Mark Edge, of a long-running syndicated radio talk show titled, “Free Talk Live,” that emanates from Keene, New Hampshire evenings 7:00 pm – 10 pm ET. The main theme of the contemporary news and topics show is freedom and the ideals of the First Amendment. Although still on the air regularly, Ian Freeman is currently under federal arrest on a wide array of charges ranging from money laundering to wire fraud. He maintains his innocence and claims the FBI and other government agencies are hell bent on shutting him up after years of dealing with the nuisance of the show’s activism and controversial information on such subjects as civil disobedience, including taking a frontline stance on the emergence and controversies of cryptocurrencies. He will begin his trial later this year. Ian Freeman will receive the TALKERS Gene Burns Memorial Award for Freedom of Speech (also known as the “Freedom of Speech” award) at TALKERS 2022 at Hofstra University on Friday, June 10.

Mandy Connell is the 12:00 noon – 3:00 pm midday host at KOA, Denver. Prior to her present position, her radio background includes KHOW, Denver as well as heritage station WHAS, Louisville. She began her career in Florida doing news/talk and hot talk after having been a flight attendant who decided to attend broadcasting school and begin a career in radio. She is widely recognized as an influential, reasonable, and independent conservative political voice as well as an entertaining conversationalist whose repertoire includes all aspects of pop culture and day-to-day issues. Her star continues to be on the rise. Mandy Connell will receive the TALKERS Judy Jarvis Memorial Award for Outstanding Contributions by a Woman to Talk Radio (also known as the “Woman of the Year” award) at TALKERS 2022 at Hofstra University on Friday, June 10.

Larry Young has been the beloved morning show host on African American community talker WOLB, Baltimore for the past 25 years and is about to retire at the end of 2022. The “Larry Young Morning Show” is widely regarded as the top black radio talk show in Maryland. The “Larry Young Morning Show” was also named “Best Radio Station” by Baltimore City Paper in 2007, 2008, 2009 and in 2010. He also has been honored by the community with such awards as the 2007 Pinnacle Award given by American Development Consortium, 2009 Ed Bradley Award given by Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2011 Unsung Hero Award given by Grace Outreach Fundraising Committee, 2012 Whitney M. Young Jr. Award given by Greater Baltimore Urban League and he was the recipient of the TALKERS Humanitarian of the Year Award in 2015. Larry Young will receive the TALKERS Lifetime Achievement Award at TALKERS 2022 at Hofstra University on Friday, June 10.

Jeff Katz is the 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm host at WRVA, Richmond. He is a former police officer in Philadelphia who traded his badge for a microphone and began a successful three-decade, award-winning career as a talk show host on major stations in in Boston, Charlotte, Philadelphia, San Francisco and, since 2013, at the legendary WRVA. Jeff volunteers thousands of hours to help members of the community with a special focus on law enforcement officers and disabled children. President Donald J. Trump honored Jeff’s service by presenting him with The President’s Award for Volunteer Service. In addition, FBI Director Christopher Wray honored Jeff by naming him the winner of The Director’s Community Leadership Award for 2019. Katz will be the recipient of the TALKERS Sharon L. Harrison Memorial Award for Outstanding Community Service by a Radio Talk Show Host (also known as the “Humanitarian of the Year” award) at TALKERS 2022 at Hofstra University on Friday, June 10.

 

TALKERS News Notes. According to the latest data from Comscore, FOX News Digital finished April 2022 as the “top-performing news organization in the competitive set in multiplatform minutes.” FOX News Digital closed out the month reaching 2.9 billion total multiplatform minutes, 1.5 billion total multiplatform views, and 77 million multiplatform unique visitors. FOX News says April also marked the 14th straight month that it outpaced every news brand in the competitive set in multiplatform minutes. While FOX News Digital eclipses competitor CNN.com in multiplatform total views and total minutes, CNN.com tops FOX News Digital in unique visitors by a wide margin…..iHeartMedia Charlotte and the NFL’s Carolina Panthers strike a deal for the teams games to be heard on classic rock WRFX-FM “99.7 The Fox” starting this season. The team’s game broadcasts have been heard on Radio One’s WBT-AM/FM for the past 17 seasons. 99.7 The Fox will carry all Panthers game broadcasts, the Panthers pregame and postgame shows as well the team’s weekly coach’s show. The station will provide unique listener experiences and will have an on-site presence at Bank of America Stadium during Panthers game days. In addition, the new relationship will benefit from iHeartMedia’s audio partnership with the NFL, which features podcast distribution via the iHeartPodcast Network…..iHeartMedia chairman & CEO Bob Pittman and president, CEO & COO Rich Bressler will participate in a question and answer session during J.P. Morgan’s 50th Annual Global Technology, Media and Communications Conference in Boston on Tuesday May 24 at 3:30 pm ET. A live webcast of the session will be available to the general public at the start of the session through a link on the Investors homepage of iHeartMedia’s website.

 

Dick Rakovan Dies. Radio executive Dick Rakovan has passed, according to numerous reports, including this one from Radio Ink. Consultant and TALKERS magazine columnist Holland Cooke says, “His CapCities resume included WJR, Detroit; WKBW, Buffalo; and WPRO, Providence where he was our station manager in the 1970s – radio Camelot. Later, when he ran the radio group for Outlet Broadcasting, he vectored me into programming WSNE, Providence and WTOP, Washington. He also served with WFYR, Chicago and WWRC, Washington and was VP of the Radio Advertising Bureau.” Rakovan was honored by the Illinois Broadcasters Association with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. See that video here.

 

Buffalo Shooting/Great Replacement Theory, Midterm Primaries/Trump & the GOP, the Economy, Russia-Ukraine War/Finland & Sweden Apply to NATO, Elon Musk & Twitter, COVID-19, and UFO Hearings Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/17). The aftermath of the deadly Buffalo shooting and talk of the Great Replacement Theory; the primary races for the November midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the financial markets, inflation, and concerns about a major recession on the horizon; Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and Finland and Sweden apply to NATO; Elon Musk’s attempt to take over Twitter; the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the U.S.; and Tuesday’s congressional hearing on UFOs were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

April 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

By Editor | by Editor

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

Nielsen Audio’s April 2022 sweep covered March 31 – April 27.

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

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

All comparisons noted are March 2022 – April 2022 (6+).

Sports-Related Notes: The MLB season began on April 7; NBA playoffs got underway on May 1; and NHL playoffs started on May 2.

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 3.9 – 3.7, -.2, repeats in tenth-place

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 8.7 – 8.1, -.6, second to third

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” (Nationals) 2.7 – 2.8, +.1, continues at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU 9.6 – 9.7, +.1, #1

Pacifica’s public radio news/talk-jazz hybrid KPFW .8 – .7, -.1, #20 to #19

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, fourth month in succession, 9.6 – 9.7, +.1

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: urban contemporary WKYS (+.4)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease (Tie): news WTOP & WTLP and adult contemporary WASH (-.6)

BOSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” 4.7 – 4.3, -.4, eighth to seventh

News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” 5.5 – 4.7, -.8, repeats in sixth-place

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Celtics and Bruins) 7.3 – 8.4, +1.1, continues in the runner-up slot

Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” (Red Sox) 2.6 – 3.3, +.7, #12 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 5.0 – 3.7, -.1.3, seventh to ninth

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 2.6 – 3.5, +.9, locked at #12

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR, third month in succession, 9.2 – 8.6, -.6

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: Spanish tropical WNNW (+1.7)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: classic rock WZLX (-1.0)

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 2.7 – 2.1, -.6, #14 to #19

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WFEZ, fourth consecutive month, 9.0 – 8.6, -.4

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase (Tie): adult contemporary WLYF; urban contemporary WMIB; and Spanish news/talk WAQI (+.4)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease (Tie): public radio news/talk WLRN and Spanish news/talk WURN (-.6)

SEATTLE

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” 7.4 – 6.3, -1.1, #1 to #2

News: Lotus Communications’ KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM “Northwest News Radio” 5.0 – 4.3, -.7, sixth to ninth

Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” (Mariners) 2.9 – 3.9, +1.0, #14 to #11

Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio’s KUOW 5.9 – 5.4, -.5, third to fourth

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting adult contemporary KRWM, first month, 6.3 – 7.8, +1.5

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: adult contemporary KRWM (+1.5)*

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: sports talk KJR-FM (-1.2)**

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

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

DETROIT

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 3.4 – 3.6, +.2, repeats at #13

News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” (Pistons) 5.0 – 4.4, -.6, eighth to ninth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Tigers, Pistons, and Red Wings) 5.7 – 6.3, +.6, fifth to third

WXYT-FM’s internet stream, .9 – 1.3, +.4, #22 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM steady at 2.3, #17 to #16

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies WOMC, fourth consecutive month, 7.7 – 7.6, -.1

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: sports talk WXYT-FM (+.6)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: urban-rhythmic oldies WMGC (-.8)

PHOENIX

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” flat at 4.6, fourth to fifth

Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” (Sun) 2.7 – 2.6, -.1, #16 to #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College’s KJZZ 6.8 – 5.8, -1.0, first to third

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KESZ, first month, 6.6 – 6.9, +.3

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: regional Mexican KNAI (+.9)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk KJZZ (-1.0)

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” (Minnesota Twins and Minnesota Timberwolves) 4.3 – 3.8, -.5, #12 to #13

iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” 3.6 – 3.0, -.6, repeats at #14

Hubbard Broadcasting’s KTMY “My Talk 107.1” 2.6 – 2.7, +.1, anchored at #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” (Minnesota Wild) 5.0 – 5.8, +.8, ninth to sixth

Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW 7.3 – 7.0, -.3, continues in second-place

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC KSTP-FM, fourth month in a row, 8.5 – 9.0, +.5

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: sports talk KFXN (+.8)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: triple A KCMP (-.9)

SAN DIEGO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” 3.8 – 3.4, -.4, #9 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” (Padres) 1.4 – 1.9, +.5, #20 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 5.8 – 5.1, -.7, fourth to fifth

Number One 6+: Local Media San Diego adult hits KFBG, first month, 6.3 – 7.5, +1.2

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase (Tie): adult hits KFBG and classic rock KGB-FM (+1.2)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KXSN (-1.2)**

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

TAMPA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” steady at 3.7, #11 to #10

iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” (Lightning) 4.4 – 3.6, -.8, #7 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” (Rays) 1.0 – 1.7, +.7, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 3.0 – 2.7, -.3, #16 to #18

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, eighth month in succession, 8.1 – 7.7, -.4

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase (Tie): urban contemporary WBTP and sports talk WDAE (+.7)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: news/talk WFLA (-.8)

DENVER

News/Talk: In the iHeartMedia cluster, KOA “News Radio 850” (Colorado Rockies) 2.0 – 2.7, +.7, #16 to #12; KHOW “Talk Radio 630” 1.6 – 1.9, +.3, #18 to #17; and KDFD “Freedom 93.7” 1.6 – 1.7, +.1, #18 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” (Nuggets) 2.3 – 1.9, -.4, #14 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 4.6 – 4.5, -.1, anchored in seventh-place

Number One 6+: Audacy classic rock KQMT, third straight month, 6.8 – 6.6, -.2

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: country KWBL (+.9)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: classic rock KRFX (-.8)

BALTIMORE

News/Talk: WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” 3.6 – 2.8, -.8, #10 to #11

Hearst Television’s WBAL News Radio 1090” (Orioles) 2.4 – 2.1, -.3, #13 to #16

Cumulus Media-owned WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” flat at 1.0, unchanged at #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” 3.8 – 3.4, -.4, seventh to tenth

Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 3.7 – 3.8, +.1, ninth to eighth

Number One 6+: Radio One urban AC WWIN-FM, third month in a row, 8.4 – 8.9, +.5

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: CHR WWMX (+1.3)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WLIF (-1.0)

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” (Cardinals) 3.6 – 4.4, +.8, carries on at #11 and cluster-mate KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” flat at 2.6, #15 to #14

iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-FM “104.9 The Patriot” 1.1 – 1.2, +.1, stays at #19

The internet stream of Audacy’s KFTK .9 – .8, -.1, flat at #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” (Blues) 5.2 – 5.6, +.4, remains in ninth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 2.2 – 2.1, -.1, #16 to #17

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting rock KSHE, fourth month in a row, 9.8 – 8.8, -1.0

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: country KSD and news/talk KMOX (+.8)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: rock KSHE (-1.0)

 

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

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Front Page News Industry News

Wednesday, May 11, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Salem Media Group First Quarter Revenue Rises 5.5%. Reporting financial data for the first quarter of 2022, Salem Media Group says total revenue was $62.6 million, an increase of 5.5% over the same period in 2021. Operating income was $5 million, up 14.2% from the same period a year ago. Salem posted net income of $1.7 million in Q1 of this year compared to the net income of $0.3 million reported for the same quarter in 2021. Breaking down the company’s data by segment, net broadcast revenue increased 10% to $48.4 million from $44 million in 2021, while digital media revenue increased 7.1% to $10.3 million from $9.6 million, and publishing revenue decreased 31.8% to $3.9 million from $5.7 million. Looking ahead, Salem Media Group says that for the second quarter of 2022, it is projecting total revenue to increase between 6% and 8% from second quarter 2021 total revenue of $63.8 million.

 

The Vastness of Night. “The two most effective, engaging forms of advertising are in-theatre and overnight radio,” says Walter Sterling. “Surrounded by darkness without distractions, the audience choses to receive the advertising message in the comfort of a bed, perfectly adjusted car seat, or reclining throne. Overnight radio is 25% of the broadcast day. Twenty-five percent. A locally hosted all-night show in a major city is a gift to listeners and advertisers.” You say you can’t afford an all-night talk radio host? Read more of what Walter Sterling has to say here.

 

Tom Millikan Upped to Assistant Brand Manager for WXYT-FM, Detroit. Executive producer Tom Millikan is promoted to assistant brand manager at Audacy’s sports talk WXYT-FM, Detroit “97.1 The Ticket.” He will continue in his executive producer role for “The Morning Show with Stoney and Jansen.” Audacy Detroit SVP and market manager Debbie Kenyon says, “Tom has done an outstanding job as an executive producer and has played a vital role in the success of the station. He is very deserving of this promotion and we look forward to even greater success with Tom in his new role.” Millikan comments, “Throughout my 20-plus years in radio, I’ve been blessed with countless memories of championships and pure joy. I’m living out a dream. I wanted to work in sports radio since the format exploded in the early 90s and I’ve been blessed by the tutelage of all of my co-workers and peers. I was born and raised in Detroit and Detroit sports are part of my DNA. Listeners might not agree with my opinions or show content all of the time, but I genuinely try to produce shows that Detroit sports fans want every single day.”

 

ABC Audio Promotes Liz Alesse to VP. Rising from the director and executive producer of podcast programming position to vice president of ABC Audio is Liz Alesse. In this role, Alesse will oversee the organization’s entire audio business, including ABC News Radio, podcasts, and the entertainment content service. ABC News senior vice president of streaming and digital content Reena Mehta says, “She has been instrumental in growing and re-organizing our award-winning podcast team, developing successful content and monetization strategies, and partnering closely within the news division and across The Walt Disney Company to promote our work. Liz oversaw the successful launches of new podcasts, including, ‘Life Out Loud with LZ Granderson,’ ‘Close Up’ and ‘The Book Case with Kate and Charlie Gibson.’ She also spearheaded creating the ‘GMA’ Channel on Apple Podcasts, which holds the new ‘Good Morning America’ podcast and ABC Audio’s growing library of lifestyle, culture and entertainment on-demand audio content. Under her leadership, the team received Webby Awards, a Gracie Award, GLAAD Special Recognition honors and more.”

 

Edison Research Q1 Top 50 Podcasts Chart; Controversy Has Not Hurt Joe Rogan. The Edison Podcast Metrics chart of the top 50 podcasts in the U.S. for the first quarter of 2022 has been released and the controversy surrounding Spotify’s “The Joe Rogan Experience” in 2021 has not harmed listening; in fact, it appears to have helped it. Edison Research director of research Gabriel Soto says, “Despite a turbulent and controversial ride for Joe Rogan at the beginning of the quarter, his show not only remains the most popular in the U.S., but it has increased in listenership – distancing itself from the number two spot.” This chart by Edison ranks the 50 biggest podcasts by audience size, based on Edison Podcast Metrics (formerly known as the Podcast Consumer Tracking Report). Edison says its list is “the only podcast measurement service that measures the relative audience size and demographics of all podcast networks in the U.S. and measures based on actual podcast listening, not downloads, and does not require an opt-in from podcast networks. Some of the other podcasts making the chart connected to radio-oriented companies include: #6 “Stuff You Should Know” (iHeartPodcasts), #9 “The Ben Shapiro Show” (The Daily Wire), #18 “The Dan Bongino Show” (Cumulus Podcast Network), #31 “The Dave Ramsey Show” (The Ramsey Network), and #39 “The Mark Levin Show” (Cumulus Podcast Network).

 

TALKERS News Notes. According to data from Nielsen, Newsmax’s live coverage of former President Donald Trump’s Pennsylvania rally pushed the network ahead of CNN in audience viewership on Friday night (5/6). Newsmax says that it pulled 738,000 total viewers between 8:00 pm and 10:00 pm ET, with an evening prime-time average of 579,000 viewers. CNN peaked at 645,000 viewers during Anderson Cooper’s show, drawing an average audience of 545,000 on Friday night. Newsmax adds that for the past year, is has consistently held the position as the fourth-highest-rated cable news channel in the U.S. and a top-20 cable channel in daytime, according to Nielsen…..The Independent Broadcasters Association says it is delivering on its promise to provide an efficient way for members to share local talent in which all talent made available to members by members will be on a very affordable cash basis, eliminating the need for costly barter deals. IBA executive director Ron Stone comments, “One of the most costly expenditures for independent radio is paying for syndication, whether by cash, barter, or a combination thereof. Our goal is to provide our IBA members with an opportunity to choose cost-effective talent from other IBA members and eliminate the need to give local inventory to large networks that sell to the very clients we used to do business with nationally, and at far better prices than network pricing. This, I believe, is a huge opportunity to get back inventory used against us at extremely low prices.”

 

The Economy, Russia-Ukraine War, Mark Esper Book, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, Roe v Wade, Musk & Twitter, COVID-19, and Western Drought Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/10). The state of the U.S. economy, the high cost of food and gasoline, and concerns about a recession; Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, rumors of Vladimir Putin’s poor health, and the U.S. House approves aid to Ukraine; former Defense Secretary Mark Esper’s book,  A Sacred Oath, that paints former President Donald Trump in an unflattering light; the Trump-approved primary candidates for the November midterms and Trump’s influence over the GOP; the protests over the leaked draft of a Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v Wade; the controversial attempt by Elon Musk to acquire Twitter; the rate of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., concerns about new variants, and the Chinese zero-COVID policy; and the drought affecting the U.S. West were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Friday, May 6, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

NOW POSTED: This Weekend’s Installment of “The Michael Harrison Wrap: An Overview of the National Conversation.” The latest installment of the one-hour weekend special, “The Michael Harrison Wrap,” that looks back each week at the hottest topics discussed in American talk media per the research of TALKERS, is now posted. This new episode titled, “Mothers of Contention,” looks back at this past week of 5/2 to 5/6. The program features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS; Harry Hurley, talk show host, WPG, Atlantic City; Thom Hartmann, talk show host, WYD Media; Todd Feinburg, talk show host, WTIC, Hartford; and Gregg Stebben, correspondent, beamz.live. The show airs weekends on WONK-FM, Washington, DC; WTIC, Hartford; KSCO, Santa Cruz, CA; KDFD, Denver; KFNX, Phoenix; KTLK-FM, St. Louis; WPG, Atlantic City, NJ; SuperTalk 99.7 WTN, Nashville; KMZQ, Las Vegas;  WTPL, Manchester, NH; WEMJ, Laconia, NH; WTSN, Dover-Portsmouth, NH; WVLY, Wheeling, WV; WTRW-FM, Scranton/Wilkes Barre, PA; WVOX, Westchester, NY; KBDT, Dallas; WGDJ, Albany, NY; WJFN-FM, Richmond, VA; WZFG, Fargo; KTGO, Tioga, ND; KWAM, Memphis; K-NEWS, San Luis Obispo; WGMD, Rehoboth Beach, DE; WCHM, Clarkesville, GA; WPHM, Port Huron, MI; KSYL, Alexandria, LA; KTOE, Mankato, MN; WCED, DuBois, PA; K-NEWS 101.3, Owensboro, KY; WWTK, Sebring, FL; WSAR-AM/FM, Fall River, MA; WIZM-AM/FM, La Crosse, WI; WMVA, Martinsville, VA; KQEN, Roseburg, OR; the Virginia Talk Radio Network; CRN Digital Talk Radio Network; Podcast Radio UK and many more. To listen to this week’s episode, please click here. To view the latest TALKERS topic research, please click here. “The Michael Harrison Wrap” is now available in syndication via Talk Media Network to stations across America on a market exclusive basis. For affiliation information, please click here or call 616-884-8616.

 

iHeartMedia Reports Q1 2022 Consolidated Revenue Up 19.4%. Financial results from the first quarter of 2022 for iHeartMedia Inc. reveal consolidated revenue of $843 million, an increase of 19.4% over the same period a year ago. The company’s net loss shrank during the first quarter to $48.7 million from the $242 million net loss posted during Q1 of 2021. iHeartMedia posted operating income of $12.3 million for the first quarter, compared to the operating loss of $76.4 million it reported in Q1 of 2021. Looking at the company’s reporting by segment, broadcast radio was up 16.2% on revenue of $416.5 million, and networks was up 2.1% on revenue of $117.6 million. Those, along with sponsorships & events, comprise the company’s Multiplatform Group. The Digital Audio Group consists of digital excluding podcasting, which reported revenue of $145.7 million (up 22.2%), and podcasting, which reported revenue of $68.5 million (an increase of 78.7%). The company’s Audio & Media Services Group reported revenue of $60.9 million (up 10.4%) for the quarter. iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman states, “We’re pleased to report another quarter of strong results, and believe our performance is further evidence of the successful execution of our digital transformation and multiplatform strategy, and the power of our position as the #1 audio company in America across broadcast radio, digital radio, and podcasting. We remain committed to building on iHeart’s transformation into a data-led, digitally focused business; to investing in areas with high-growth potential; and to continuing our focus on innovation and being at the forefront of new technologies and digital platforms which create incremental growth opportunities for Audio.”

 

‘Toucher & Rich’ Morning Show Expands to Springfield, Mass. Market. The “Toucher & Rich” morning program based at Beasley Media Group’s sports talk WBZ-FM, Boston “98.5 The Sports Hub” will be heard on rock Saga Communications’ WLZX-FM/W253CD in the Springfield-Northampton, Massachusetts market beginning on May 9. The program, hosted by Fred Toucher (left) and Rich Shertenlieb (right), began expanding to affiliate stations throughout New England last fall. This is an uncommon move for Saga, which has a history of keeping its morning drive programs live and local. Toucher & Rich comment, “We’re excited to be launching ‘Toucher & Rich’ in Springfield and Northampton on ‘Lazer 99.3 and 98.5’ with our new friends at Saga Communications. We’re fortunate to have some of the most loyal listeners in radio and look forward to introducing our show to a whole new audience of potential T&R diehards.”

 

Moms & Media 2022. “Two years into COVID,” Moms’ media consumption is changed. “The Research Moms” at Edison Research updated their annual report in a Thursday webinar consultant Holland Cooke attended; and HC’s “one-sentence version” is: “To reach Mom, use smartphones, Alexa, Facebook, and TikTok.” Click here for his notes, and links to download the report and watch a video of the narrated presentation. Read more here.

 

WJR-AM, Detroit Celebrates 100 Years on the Air. On Wednesday (5/4), Cumulus Media’s news/talk WJR-AM, Detroit kicked off a year-long Centennial celebration. WJR signed on for the first time on May 4, 1922, as WCX, which changed a few years later to WJR to reflect the ownership of the Jewett Radio and Phonograph Company. Cumulus says, “The station has served the community with excellence for 100 years, with a 50,000-watt signal that can be heard across nearly half the country at night, providing the city of Detroit, the state of Michigan, and the Upper Midwest with news, music, sports, and information by some of the most talented people in the radio industry. Through the years, WJR’s legendary lineup has featured broadcasting giants such as Paul W. Smith, Jack Parr, Mitch Albom, J.P. McCarthy, Frank Beckmann, Ernie Harwell, Guy Gordon, and Rush Limbaugh.” In the last several months leading up to Wednesday’s 100th year birthday, WJR has presented dozens of on-air vignettes that mark memorable moments, tell interesting stories, and feature the unique sound and talented people from WJR’s history. In addition, the station has populated www.wjr.com with archival video, audio and photos that tell the story of WJR’s first 100 years. Cumulus Detroit VP and market manage Steve Finateri comments, “Being at WJR is like being part of an all-star team at every position in this famous Fisher Building. WJR is iconic because of the extremely high standards set by so many world class broadcasters over the past 100 years. Today, those same high standards and our ‘blow torch coverage’ is what still attracts top newsmakers from around the Great Lakes Region and is the reason for our continued success. We take great pride in our programming, our business and civic relationships, and serve the community by raising millions every year for numerous worthy charities that improve the quality of life in Detroit. The best-of-the-best seem to find their way to WJR, and I know that tradition will continue on for the next 100 years.”

 

TALKERS News Notes. Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that Windy City media personality and former WGN-AM, Chicago morning drive host Steve Cochran is going to be heard on Cumulus Media’s WLS-AM in mornings next week. Cochran will guest host the program that is without a permanent host since Bruce St. James exited the station last month. Since exiting WGN, Cochran has been producing a twice-weekly podcast titled, “Live from My Office.”…..Audio streaming service TuneIn names Tom Fuelling chief financial officer. Fuelling has served as CFO for Hulu, OpenX, ARTISTdirect and most recently, Spokeo, Inc. TuneIn CEO Richard Stern says, “Tom is an incredible addition to our growing leadership team. His experience scaling global media businesses that consumers love is unparalleled. Working in a competitive landscape, TuneIn has emerged as a leader in live audio streaming and we look forward to working with Tom as he’ll help us sustain and maintain our growth both domestically and abroad.”…..FOX News Media, in partnership with the National Merit Scholarship Program, announces the selection of the recipients of the third annual Dr. Charles Krauthammer Memorial Scholarship. This year’s scholarships will be endowed to Emmett Gaffney, son of vice president of documentary programming, Brian Gaffney and Grace LeCroy, the daughter of FOX News assignment desk manager Lillian LeCroy and FOX News Edge photojournalist Phil LeCroy. The winners will be featured on the network’s evening newscast, “Special Report with anchor Bret Baier,” on which Dr. Krauthammer was a fixture over the years. Additionally, Daniel Krauthammer will appear on the program tonight to discuss his father’s legacy. In making the announcement, FOX News Media CEO Suzanne Scott says, “We are pleased to continue the tradition of honoring Charles Krauthammer’s extraordinary and celebrated career. Emmett and Grace are exceptional students whose many talents extend beyond the classroom. It is our hope that Charles’ brilliant intellect, integrity and courage will serve as an inspiration for them throughout their next endeavors in higher education. Congratulations to Emmett, Grace, and their families.”

 

Roe v Wade Top News/Talk Story for Week of May 2-6. The leak of a draft decision indicating the Supreme Court will overturn Roe v Wade was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was partisan politics tied with the 2022 and 2024 elections, followed by January 6 committee activity tied with Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP at #3. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Front Page News Industry News

Tuesday, April 26, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

NAB2022: Don’t Blink. “As if technology hadn’t already disrupted media consumption pre-pandemic,” consultant Holland Cooke finds broadcasters gathering in Las Vegas for the first NAB Show in three years “somewhat future-shocked, yet curious and enthused.” HC’s notes from Monday sessions point to threats and opportunities in the New Normal. Read it here.

 

WWO Blog: Nielsen Data Shows Spoken-Word AM/FM Content Accounts for 36% of American Streaming. The Westwood One Audio Active Group blog post is a “comprehensive analysis of AM/FM radio streaming” based on Q4 2021 data from Edison Research’s quarterly “Share of Ear” study. Among the key conclusions from the study are: 1) The streaming shares of spoken-word AM/FM radio stations are nearly double their over-the-air shares. Spoken-word AM/FM radio station streams (news/talk, sports, talk/personality, Spanish news/talk) represent 36% of all American streaming listening, 89% greater than the over-the-air share (19%) of spoken word stations; 2) 89% of the AM/FM radio streaming audience resides in the DMA market where they stream. Marketers can purchase time on AM/FM radio station streams with the confidence that their ads will reach consumers in that local market; 3) There is wide variation in the amount of AM/FM radio stream listening that occurs in local markets. According to Nielsen’s analysis of the February 2022 Portable People Meter data, 18.4% of all AM/FM radio listening in Philadelphia occurs via the stream compared to only 3.9% of listening in Las Vegas; and 4) AM/FM radio streaming audiences are employed, upscale, and most are 35-64. The streams of AM/FM radio stations are highly desirable to advertisers. Compared to the over-the-air AM/FM radio audience in Nielsen’s 48 Portable Meter Markets, streaming audiences are 14% more likely to be employed full time, 30% more likely to have a $75K+ household income, and 11% more likely to be aged 35-64. See the complete study results here.

 

Audacy and FOX News Audio Expand Partnership. This expansion of the relationship between Audacy and FOX News Audio includes FOX News Audio’s linear talk radio streaming content migrating to AmperWave, Audacy’s cloud-based distribution and monetization platform for live and on-demand audio streams. The expanded agreement will also make Audacy the exclusive third-party ad sales representation of FOX News Audio’s streaming inventory on the audio network’s digital properties. The new agreement gives FOX streaming capabilities, sales representation, and new capabilities for live broadcasts on its streaming services. FOX News Audio will be the first of Audacy’s affiliate partners to enable “Rewind” capabilities. Audacy VP of business development Corey Podolsky says, “Audacy knows that our industry is changing with listeners consuming more audio on streams than ever before. As a strategic partner, we are excited to lean into that industry shift with FOX News Audio to deliver new capabilities via our AmperWave streaming platform. Coupled with our ability to now offer world-class hosting and ad serving capabilities, this will take our relationship to a whole new level.” FOX News audio executive director of business development and digital audio operations William Sanchez adds, “We’re thrilled to expand our partnership with Audacy and collaborate on serving the growing needs of our listeners. We look forward to improving our audience’s experience with AmperWave’s hosting technology on our platforms.”

 

TALKERS News Notes. San Antonio news/talk outlet KTSA-AM is celebrating its 100th anniversary on May 9. As part of the celebration, the Alpha Media station has produced a video that encapsulates the 300-year history of the city that you can see here…..Sports talk WBFG-FM, Parker’s Crossroads, Tennessee – in the Jackson, Tennessee market, is now owned and operated by Dan Reaves, who acquired the station from Lexington Broadcasting. The Jackson Sun reports that the change of ownership became official on April 1. Reaves is a well-known radio personality in the region and is hosting the morning drive show. George B. hosts the afternoon drive daypart and ESPN Radio content airs the rest of the day. The station will remain an affiliate for the Tennessee Volunteer Sports Network and the Memphis Grizzlies broadcasts…..SiriusXM and I Am Athlete, the media network founded by former NFL All-Pro receiver Brandon Marshall, announce a new, expansive content deal that includes a live nightly radio show and other projects. I Am Athlete and SiriusXM will produce a new show called “I Am Athlete Tonight” that will air live from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm ET hosted by former NFL defensive end Leger Douzable and include a case of rotating co-hosts including Marshall, former NFL players LeSean McCoy, Brandon Flowers and Adam “Pacman” Jones, former NBA player Antoine Walker, former WNBA player Chantel Tremitiere and journalist Omar Kelly.

 

Musk to Acquire Twitter, Russia-Ukraine War, COVID-19, January 6 Investigation, Financial Markets/Inflation, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, and Immigration Issues Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/25). After more than a week of attempts, Elon Musk’s $54.20 per share acquisition of Twitter has been accepted prompting questions about what the new Twitter will look like; Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, its effects on the global economy, and Vladimir Putin’s other European targets; the battle over mask mandates, the dominant BA.2 variant’s spread across the U.S., and the harsh lockdowns in China; the revelations of Republican politicians’ communications before and during the January 6 Capitol attack; concerns about bearish activity on the world’s financial markets and the effects of high gas and food prices on American families; the battle for control of Congress in November’s midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; and Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s transportation of migrants to Washington, DC and U.S. immigration policy were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

March 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

By Editor | by Editor

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

Nielsen Audio’s March 2022 sweep covered March 3 – March 30

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 February 2022 – March 2022 (6+).

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 4.1 – 3.9, -.2, ninth to tenth

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 7.3 – 8.7, +1.4, fourth to second

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” 2.0 – 2.7, +.7, repeats at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU 10.8 – 9.6, -1.2, #1

Pacifica’s public radio news/talk-jazz hybrid KPFW .7 – .8, +.1, stays at #20

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, third month in succession, 10.8 – 9.6, -1.2

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: news WTOP & WTLP (+1.4)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WAMU (-1.2)

BOSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” 3.6 – 4.7, +1.1, tenth to eighth

News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” 6.2 – 5.5, -.7, fifth to sixth

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Celtics and Bruins) 6.3 – 7.3, +1.0, fourth to second

Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” 2.7 – 2.6, -.1, #14 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 4.3 – 5.0, +.7, repeats in seventh-place

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.0 – 2.6, -.4, continues at #12

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR, second month in succession, 8.4 – 9.2, +.8

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: news/talk WRKO (+1.1)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: CHR WXKS-FM (-1.0)

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 2.9 – 2.7, -.2, #13 to #14

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WFEZ, third consecutive month, 9.1 – 9.0, -.1

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): Spanish news/talk WURN and the internet stream of urban AC WHQT (+.4)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: urban AC WHQT (-1.0)

SEATTLE

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” steady at 7.4, #1

News: Lotus Communications’ KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM “Northwest News Radio” 5.7 – 5.0, -.7, second to sixth

Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” 1.9 – 2.9, +1.0, #21 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio’s KUOW 5.3 – 5.9, +.6, fifth to third

Number One 6+: news/talk KIRO-FM, third straight month, unchanged at 7.4

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: sports talk KIRO-AM (+1.0)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: country KNUC (-.9)

DETROIT

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 3.2 – 3.4, +.2, #14 to #13

News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” (Pistons) 6.1 – 5.0, -1.1, fourth to eighth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Pistons and Red Wings) 5.0 – 5.7, +.7, seventh to fifth

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 2.5 – 2.3, -.2, #15 to #17

Wayne State University’s WDET 1.9 – 1.3, -.6, repeats at #20

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies WOMC, third consecutive month, 8.3 – 7.7, -.6

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): sports talk WXYT-FM and country WDRQ (+.7)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: news WWJ (-1.1)

PHOENIX

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” 5.4 – 4.6, -.8, third to fourth

Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” (Sun) 3.2 – 2.7, -.5, #11 to #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College’s KJZZ 6.3 – 6.8, +.5, second to first

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KJZZ, first month, 6.3 – 6.8, +.5

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: classic rock KSLX (+.9)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: news/talk KFYI (-.8)

Note: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KESZ had been #1 the past seventeen months.

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” (Minnesota Timberwolves) 4.9 – 4.3, -.6, #7 to #12

iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” 3.2 – 3.6, +.4, steady at #14

Hubbard Broadcasting’s KTMY “My Talk 107.1” 2.5 – 2.6, +.1, locked at #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” (Minnesota Wild) 4.9 – 5.0, +.1, seventh to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW 6.6 – 7.3, +.7, anchored in second-place

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC KSTP-FM, third month in a row, 10.1 – 8.5, -1.6

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: adult hits KZJK (+1.2)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: hot AC KSTP-FM (-1.6)*

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

SAN DIEGO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” 3.3 – 3.8, +.5, #13 to #9

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” 1.0 – 1.4, +.4, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 6.3 – 5.8, -.5, second to fourth

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KXSN, third consecutive month, 8.1 – 7.0, -1.1

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: adult hits KFBG (+2.3)**

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KXSN (-1.1)

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

TAMPA

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” (Lightning) steady at 4.4, remains in seventh-place

Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” 3.6 – 3.7, +.1, flat at #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” 1.2 – 1.0, -.2, continues at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 3.3 – 3.0, -.3, #15 to #16

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, seventh month in succession, 8.6 – 8.1, -.5

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: Spanish contemporary WYUU (+.8)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: rock WXTB (-.9)

DENVER

News/Talk: In the iHeartMedia cluster, KOA “News Radio 850” 2.6 – 2.0, -.6, repeats at #16; KDFD “Freedom 93.7” 2.3 – 1.6, -.7, #17 to #18; and KHOW “Talk Radio 630” 1.7 – 1.6, -.1, #19 to #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” (Nuggets) 2.7 – 2.3, -.4, #15 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 4.2 – 4.6, +.4, locked at #7

Number One 6+: Audacy classic rock KQMT, second straight month, 6.6 – 6.8, +.2

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: hot AC KIMN (+1.3)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: Spanish adult hits KJMN (-.9)

BALTIMORE

News/Talk: WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” 3.2 – 3.6, +.4, #11 to #10

Hearst Television’s WBAL News Radio 1090” 2.8 – 2.4, -.4, repeats at #13

Cumulus Media-owned WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 1.2 – 1.0, -.2, continues at #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” steady at 3.8, eighth to seventh

Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 3.8 – 3.7, -.1, eighth to ninth

Number One 6+: Radio One urban AC WWIN-FM, second month in a row, 8.6 – 8.4, -.2

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: classical WBJC (+.8)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease (Tie): CHR WWMX and contemporary Christian WRBS-FM (-1.1)

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” 3.8 – 3.6, -.2, repeats at #11 and cluster-mate KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 3.4 – 2.6, -.8, #13 to #15

iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-FM “104.9 The Patriot” .8 – 1.1, +.3, #20 to #19

The internet stream of Audacy’s KFTK flat at .9, #19 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” (Blues) 4.7 – 5.2, +.5, tenth to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 2.4 – 2.2, -.2, #17 to #16

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting rock KSHE, third month in a row, 8.6 – 9.8, +1.2

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: rock KSHE (+1.2)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: news/talk KFTK (-.8)

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

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Front Page News Industry News

Wednesday, March 30, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Geraldo Rivera to End WTAM, Cleveland Radio Show. The daily, local program that Geraldo Rivera hosted for iHeartMedia on Cleveland news/talk WTAM will ends after the April 1 program. Rivera has been hosting the one-hour show from 9:00 am to 10:00 am but will end the program due to his busy schedule. WTAM says, “Geraldo is a once-in-a-generation broadcaster, storied journalist, and tireless philanthropist. It shouldn’t come as any surprise that after his 50-plus years of broadcasting, the Emmy and Peabody Award-winning Rivera refuses to slow down. Unfortunately, with an increased travel schedule for the FOX News Network and additional production projects, Geraldo has decided that after nearly four years, the final episode of ‘Geraldo in Cleveland’ will air on Friday, April 1, 2022 from 9:00 am until 10:00 am on Newsradio WTAM 1100. Even though the WTAM chapter of his career is closing, Geraldo will continue to live in his adopted hometown of Shaker Heights, Ohio with his wife Erica and daughter Sol. We will always consider Geraldo to be a treasured member of the WTAM family and are honored to have had a front row seat to his storied career.”

 

 

WPHT, Philadelphia Raises $65,000 for Veterans Organization. Pictured above is the staff of Audacy’s news/talk WPHT, Philadelphia at the fifth annual “Talk Radio 1210 WPHT Travis Manion Foundation Radiothon” during which it raised more than $65,000 in support of veterans in partnership with the Travis Manion Foundation. The Travis Manion Foundation is led by veterans and families of the fallen that develops, unites and strengthens communities by training, developing, and highlighting the role models that lead them. The radiothon was broadcast live from Audacy corporate headquarters in Philadelphia on March 25 and was hosted by station talent, including  Rich Zeoli, 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.

 

Beasley Names Tim Jorgenson Integrated Sales Manager for Detroit. Sales pro Tim Jorgenson is promoted to integrated sales manager for Beasley Media Group’s Detroit operations. He was most recently the company’s national digital automotive specialist. In his new role, he’ll lead the digital sales efforts of the company’s Motor City stations that include sports talk WCSX-HD2/W228CJ “Motor City Sports Talk – The ROAR” and four music brands. Beasley Media Group director of sales Patti Taylor says, “We are beyond excited to have Tim move into the position as integrated sales manager for Detroit. Tim’s depth of knowledge in the automotive industry, coupled with his skill and passion for digital, will drive Beasley Detroit’s efforts to the next level. Tim’s approach is thoughtful and smart – and our team is so excited to be working with him.”

 

TALKERS News Notes. Pictured here is all-news WINS-AM, New York “1010 WINS” brand manager Ben Mevorach (left) accepting the 2022 World Radio Day Award, presented by the American Academy of Radio. The theme of this year’s award is citizens’ trust in radio. The award was established in 2018 as part of the worldwide UNESCO celebration of radio and its value in the lives of people across the world. Mevorach says of the Audacy station, “No station personifies the city of New York quite like 1010 WINS. We are thrilled to be recognized for our relentless dedication to our guiding principles of fairness, trust, inclusion, and information so that, together with our listeners, we improve the communities we serve.” Pictured with him are American Academy of Radio jurors Deborah Parenti, president, Streamline Publishing (center), and Heather Cohen, EVP, The Weiss Agency (right)…..A collaboration between iHeartMedia and European podcast studio Novel is producing the new program, “The Superhero Complex.” Hosted by David Weinberg, the series captures the rise and fall of Phoenix Jones, Seattle’s real-life, crime-fighting vigilante who infamously ascended from local icon and leader of The Rain City Superhero Movement, to a dejected and humiliated figure waiting for a verdict on a charge of selling MDMA to undercover cops. By day, Phoenix is a semi-pro MMA fighter — but by night, he slinks through the streets of Rain City, patrolling Seattle for crime amongst a motley crew of former soldiers, ex-cops, recovered addicts, and reformed criminals. As remarkable a group and a mission as The Rain City Superhero Movement was, ultimately, the truth behind the myth is far more complicated. Told with a balance of in-depth reportage and empathetic character study, “The Superhero Complex” reveals the betrayals, crumbling marriage, and career-ending drug charge that underscored the legacy of Phoenix Jones — confronting our society’s fascination with superheroes and figures beyond the law in the process…..C13Originals, the Peabody Award-nominated documentary division of podcast studio Cadence13, an Audacy company, announces the launch of “Origins: HBO: Present, Past, and Future,” the seventh chapter of the podcast series written and hosted by award-winning journalist and bestselling author James Andrew Miller, featuring new interviews with the most important figures who shaped HBO’s half-century drive to fundamentally change television. In his recent, critically acclaimed book Tinderbox: HBO’s Ruthless Pursuit of New Frontiers, Miller told the explosive and uninhibited true story of HBO and how it burst onto the American scene and screen to detonate a revolution and transform our relationship with television forever. Now, in “Origins: HBO: Present, Past, and Future,” Miller offers new material and interviews with top executives, programming chiefs, and executive producers for a deep dive on the business side of the blockbuster media company that has revolutionized the industry time and again.

 

Russia-Ukraine War, Recession Fears/Soaring Consumer Prices, Biden Budget/Tax Hike, Florida ‘Don’t Say Gay’ Law, Hunter Biden Investigation, COVID-19, January 6 Probe, Will Smith-Chris Rock Incident Aftermath, and Big Tech Antitrust Legislation Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/29). Russia’s continuing invasion of Ukraine and its effects on the rest of the world; financial experts fear a recession is imminent and Americans bemoan high gas and food prices; President Joe Biden unveils his fiscal 2023 budget that includes a new tax on the wealthiest Americans; the controversy over Florida’s law that prohibits schools from discussing sexuality in grades K-3; the ongoing Justice Department investigation into Hunter Biden’s foreign business activities; concerns about the Omicron BA.2 variant that’s sweeping the UK and parts of Asia; the investigation into the January 6 Capitol assault and a judge’s ruling that Donald Trump “more likely than not” intended to obstruct the election certification; the aftermath of Will Smith’s assault on Chris Rock at the Oscars; and the Department of Justice endorses antitrust proposals designed to prevent big tech from giving preferential treatment to their own products were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Monday, March 28, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Monday Memo: Is Your Show the Dog? Or the Tail? “Spoiler Alert: Both!” consultant Holland Cooke reckons. As radio faces new audio competitors, HC follows up last week’s column “Weekend Warriors: Renegotiate” by outlining tactics that make ask-the-expert hosts sound popular and preeminent and leverage on-air shows to the digital on-demand platform listeners and advertisers increasingly favor. Read more here.

 

Pending Business: Marketing Madness. Radio sales pro Steve Lapa writes in today’s column about the innovation that’s taken place in the static advertising realm – bus shelters and taxi tops, for example. He says that talk radio also has the ability to create innovative marketing opportunities for clients within its own technological parameters. In fact, it’s crucial to competing. “Developing and presenting unique, cutting-edge sales and marketing solutions is a relationship builder that can cement a long-term bond,” he says. Read more here.

 

Beasley Media Group Names Kevin Rich VP of Operations. Radio executive Kevin Rich joins Beasley Media Group as vice president of operations, effective April 18, 2022. Rich was most recently market president and chief revenue and content officer at Townsquare Media’s Albany operations in which he was responsible for overseeing and managing the market with a focus on generating revenue across the company’s media and entertainment platforms. In his new role with Beasley, Rich will work closely with company president Bruce Beasley, chief operating officer Brian Beasley and vice president of operations Brad Beasley in overseeing the day-to-day business of the company’s 62 radio stations and multiple platforms. Company CEO Caroline Beasley says, “It’s an absolute privilege to welcome Kevin into our Beasley Media Group family. His credentials and leadership skills are the perfect fit with our organization. We look forward to Kevin sharing his outstanding strategic skill set, especially on the digital side of the business, with our teams across the organization.” Rich comments, “I am thrilled to join the Beasley Media family at a pivotal moment in the company’s growth. This is an exciting time for our industry, and I am honored to be joining such a talented team as we continue to deliver the very best content, provide comprehensive solutions to advertisers, and strengthen our market presence in the communities we serve.”

 

Detroit News Radio Pro Ken Rogulski Joins WHMI-FM, Howell as News Director. Radio news pro Ken Rogulski is named news director and morning drive news anchor at Krol Communications’ full-service/classic hits WHMI-FM, Howell, Michigan. Rogulski has held down a number of assignments at WJR-AM, Detroit for almost two decades including newscaster, street reporter, fill-in talk show host for the late Frank Beckmann, and performing his live annual broadcast from the policy conference on Mackinac Island. He is recipient of numerous awards from the Michigan Association of Broadcasters, The Associated Press and The Society of Professional Journalists as well as having been a correspondent for ABC News and Westwood One News. Rogulski will lead the news staff that includes Jessica Mathews, Mike Kruzman, and Tom Tolen.

 

WLW, Cincinnati Celebrates 100 Years. The iHeartMedia station that was once a 500,000-watt signal dubbed “The Nation’s Station” celebrated its 100th birthday on March 23. WLW, Cincinnati is one of a number of heritage stations that launched in 1922. iHeartMedia’s WGY, Albany also celebrated its 100th this year. “Radio’s Best Friend” Art Vuolo has two WLW videos that TALKERS readers may find interesting. The first is from a WLW Radio reunion produced in March of 2020 by Vuolo and current Nexstar Media executive Sean Compton. The second is a tour of the station’s transmitter with Randy Michaels produced on December 9, 1985.

 

WWL, New Orleans to Commemorate 100th Year of Broadcasting. As NOLA.com reports, New Orleans news/talk WWL-AM is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its first broadcast on March 31, 1922. WWL was the first station to serve the lower Mississippi River valley. The NOLA piece notes that “WWL was an outgrowth of physics experiments and wireless radio classes offered at Loyola University as early as 1907. On March 31, 1922, WWL’s first broadcast from Loyola’s Marquette Hall consisted of an on-air fundraising appeal from Father Edward Cummings, S.J., Loyola University’s president, followed by someone playing a few songs on an upright piano.” Loyola operated the station until 1989 when it sold the station and its sister WLMG-FM to Keymarket Communications.

 

TALKERS News Notes. A partnership between iHeartMedia and Collab Inc will result in the creation of Curativity, LLC, a new podcast studio publishing creator-centric shows with Collab’s top talent, as well as the debut a new slate of family shows. The Curativity kids slate will kick off with three shows featuring popular kids Collab talent Mr. Jim, including a new weekly series, “Spyology Squad,” set to launch April 4. In addition, the kids’ programs, “Kids Animal Stories,” and “Kids Short Stories,” will join the slate…..Milwaukee Board of School Directors-owned triple A WYMS-FM, Milwaukee “88Nine Radio Milwaukee” expands its flagship “Community Stories” program into a full-length weekly podcast called, “Uniquely Milwaukee.” The podcast launch is part of Radio Milwaukee’s 15th birthday celebration this year, growing a program that has been a part of its mission-driven offerings since 2007. The first episode of “Uniquely Milwaukee” centers on bodegas in the city. Station director of content Nate Imig says, “‘Community Stories’ are a beloved part of Radio Milwaukee. By expanding this content into a weekly thematic podcast, ‘Uniquely Milwaukee’ will greatly increase the amount of stories we’re able to share with listeners.”

 

Ukraine Song Getting Airplay, Garnering Downloads. A song penned by Streamline Publishing chairman and CEO Eric Rhoads is getting airplay on radio stations in the U.S. and has also been one of the most downloaded songs the past couple of weeks. Rhoads, whose company publishes radio trades Radio Ink and RBR-TVBR, says he decided “we needed a ‘we are the world’ kind of anthem. I wrote a title called, ‘Tears for Ukraine,’ and some lyrics. I then went to Billy Craig, he co-wrote with me and produced it.” You can hear the song here.

 

Russia-Ukraine War, Biden at NATO, COVID-19, Gas Prices/Inflation, Brown Confirmation Hearings, Ginni Thomas and January 6, Midterms and Trump & the GOP, and the Oscars Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine; President Joe Biden calls for Vladimir Putin to be removed from power at NATO conference; concerns about the Omicron BA.2 variant that’s rampant in the U.K. and parts of Asia; Americans’ frustration over high gas prices and the high cost of consumer retail goods; the aftermath of the confirmation hearings for Supreme Court nominee Katanji Jackson Brown; the January 6 committee’s investigation and texts between Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas’ wife Ginni and Trump chief of staff Mark Meadows in which she appears to urge him to overturn the 2020 election results; the battle for control of congress in November’s midterm elections and speculation about Donald Trump’s potential 2024 run; and Sunday night’s Oscars telecast were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

February 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

By Editor | by Editor

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

Nielsen Audio’s February 2022 sweep covered February 3 – March 2

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 2022 – February 2022 (6+).

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 3.6 – 4.1, +.5, #12 to #9

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 8.0 – 7.3, -.7, second to fourth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” 3.0 – 2.0, -1.0, #13 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU 9.6 – 10.8, +1.2, #1

Pacifica’s public radio news/talk-jazz hybrid KPFW steady at .7, #21 to #20

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, second month in succession, 9.6 – 10.8, +1.2

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: public radio news/talk WAMU (+1.2)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: classical WETA (-1.1)

BOSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” 4.5 – 3.6, -.9, seventh to tenth

News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” 6.4 – 6.2, -.2, fourth to fifth

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Celtics and Bruins) 8.3 – 6.3, -2.0, first to fourth

Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” 3.1 – 2.7, -.4, #12 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 3.9 – 4.3, +.4, ninth to seventh

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.4 – 3.0, -.4, #11 to #12

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies WROR, first month, 6.9 – 8.4, +1.5

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WROR (+1.5)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk WBZ-FM (-2.0)

MIAMI

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WIOD “News Radio 610” unchanged at 2.0, #20 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board-owned WLRN 2.8 – 2.9, +.1, #14 to #13

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WFEZ, second consecutive month, 8.3 – 9.1, +.8

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WFEZ (+.8)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk WQAM (-.5)

SEATTLE

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” 6.9 – 7.4, +.5, #1

News: Lotus Communications’ KNWN-AM/FM “Northwest News Radio” 5.2 – 5.7, +.5, fifth to second

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio’s KUOW 5.7 – 5.3, -.4, third to fifth

Number One 6+: news/talk KIRO-FM, second straight month, 6.9 – 7.4, +.5

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: news/talk KVI (+1.0)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk KIRO-AM (-.9)

DETROIT

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 3.0 – 3.2, +.2, #13 to #14

News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” (Pistons) 6.2 – 6.1, -.1, locked in fourth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Pistons and Red Wings) 5.5 – 5.0, -.5, repeats at #7

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 2.4 – 2.5, +.1, steady at #15

Wayne State University’s WDET 2.4 – 1.9, -.5, #15 to #20

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies WOMC, second consecutive month, 7.8 – 8.3, +.5

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: country WYCD (+1.2)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: the internet stream of sports talk WXYT-FM (-.7)

PHOENIX

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” 5.7 – 5.4, -.3, repeats in third-place

Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” (Sun) 2.9 – 3.2, +.3, #13 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College’s KJZZ 6.5 – 6.3, -.2, anchored at #2

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KESZ, seventeenth consecutive month, 8.4 – 6.5, -1.9

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: regional Mexican KLNZ (+.5)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KESZ (-1.9)

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” (Minnesota Timberwolves) 5.0 – 4.9, -.1, eighth to seventh

iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” 3.0 – 3.2, +.2, unchanged at #14

Hubbard Broadcasting’s KTMY “My Talk 107.1” 2.6 – 2.5, -.1, repeats at #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” (Minnesota Wild) 6.5 – 4.9, -1.6, third to seventh

Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW 7.4 – 6.6, -.8, locked in second-place

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC KSTP-FM, second month in a row, 10.6 – 10.1, -.5

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: hot AC KTCZ (+1.3)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk KFXN (-1.6)

SAN DIEGO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” 2.9 – 3.3, +.4, repeats at #13

News: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 6.6 – 6.3, -.3, third to second

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KXSN, second consecutive month, 8.2 – 8.1, -.1

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: alternative XTRA-FM (+.9)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: rhythmic hot AC (-.7)

Statistical Oddity: There’s a six-way logjam at #4

TAMPA

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” (Lightning) 3.3 – 4.4, +1.1, #11 to #7

Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” 3.2 – 3.6, +.4, #13 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” 1.9 – 1.2, -.7, #19 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 2.6 – 3.3, +.7, #17 to #15

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, sixth month in a row, 8.1 – 8.6, +.5

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WXGL (+1.5)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WRBQ (-1.3)

DENVER

News/Talk: In the iHeartMedia cluster, KOA “News Radio 850” 3.3 – 2.6, -.7, #11 to #16; KDFD “Freedom 93.7” 1.9 – 2.3, +.4, #18 to #17; and KHOW “Talk Radio 630” 2.3 – 1.7, -.6, #17 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” (Nuggets) 3.9 – 2.7, -1.2, #9 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 4.3 – 4.2, -.1, repeats in seventh-place

Number One 6+: Audacy classic rock KQMT, first month, 5.4 – 6.6, +1.2

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic rock KQMT (+1.2)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk KKFN (-1.2)

BALTIMORE

News/Talk: WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” 3.8 – 3.2, -.6, #9 to #11

Hearst Television’s WBAL News Radio 1090” 2.5 – 2.8, +.3, #14 to #13

Cumulus Media-owned WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” .6 – 1.2, +.6, #21 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” 4.7 – 3.8, -.9, sixth to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 5.7 – 3.8, -1.9, fifth to eighth

Number One 6+: Radio One urban AC WWIN-FM, first month, 7.4 – 8.6, +1.2

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: CHR WWMX (+2.0)*

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WYPR (-1.9)

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

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk: In the Audacy cluster, KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” 3.6 – 3.8, +.2, #12 to #11; KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 4.0 – 3.4, -.6, #11 to #13; and KFTK’s internet stream .8 – .9, +.1, repeats at #19

iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-FM “104.9 The Patriot” .7 – .8, +.1, flat at #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” (Blues) 5.5 – 4.7, -.8, ninth to tenth

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 2.3 – 2.4, +.1, #16 to #17

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting rock KSHE, second month in a row, 8.5 – 8.6, +.1

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult hits WARH (+1.1)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: country KSD (-2.8)**

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

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

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Front Page News Industry News

Tuesday, March 22, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Washington, DC Radio Legend Andy Parks Passes at 68. The Washington Times reports that market radio legend Andy Parks has died at age 68 after battling a recent illness. Parks spent the majority of his radio career with news/talk WMAL but in recent years he’d been hosting the podcast, “Politically Unstable,” produced by The Times. He began his career at WMAL doing traffic reports, but management liked his commentary and made him a regular show host. He served with co-host Fred Grandy from 2003 to 2010 on the morning drive “Grandy & Andy” show. Former Iowa congressman Grandy says, “We were Washington’s wake-up call. We were the first people you heard in the morning with a breaking story. Real partnerships are rare — few and far between. And when you get one, you know it, and you want to hang on to it. I think Andy and I knew pretty quickly this was going to work out.” Times opinion editor Charles Hunt says, “More than anything, Andy was a prince of a guy. And though he spent a lifetime covering all the crazy shenanigans of this political town, he never lost the straightforward common sense that his listeners loved about him. He will be dearly missed.”

 

Round One of February PPMs Released. The first of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s February 2022 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 2022 sweep covered February 3 – March 2. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. New York City’s two big news/talk stations are tied as Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM/WLIR-FM dips one-tenth for a 2.9 share (6+, weekly AQH share) finish and iHeartMedia’s WOR-AM rises one-tenth to reach a 2.9 share. Both stations are tied at the #13 rank. In Los Angeles, iHeartMedia’s news/talk KFI is up three-tenths to finish with a 4.0 share, good for the #7 rank, while Audacy’s crosstown all-news KNX-AM/FM ticks up two-tenths for a 3.3 share finish but dips to the #11 rank. Nexstar Media Group’s news/talk WGN-AM, Chicago sheds six-tenths, falling to a 4.6 share good for the #5 rank, while Audacy’s crosstown all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM also falls six-tenths, finishing with a 5.1 share that takes it from #1 to #3. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

 

Audacy Names Jonathan Carlson AM Drive Co-Anchor on WWJ-AM, Detroit. Television news pro Jonathan Carlson is named the new morning drive co-anchor on Audacy’s all-news WWJ News Radio 950 in Detroit. Carlson joins Roberta Jasina for the 5:00 am to 10:00 am daypart, beginning April 18. Audacy Detroit SVP and market manager Debbie Kenyon says, “We are thrilled to have Jonathan – an Emmy Award-winning journalist – join our team as a morning anchor. We’re confident he will round out our morning show program while seamlessly connecting with our listeners along the way.” Carlson has anchored in major markets around the country for nearly two decades, including WXYZ-TV, Detroit and most recently WGCL-TV, Atlanta. He comments, “I’m thrilled to join the legendary WWJ news team in such a pivotal role and I am honored and humbled to soon be waking up Metro Detroiters each morning. I am passionate about Detroit and Michigan as a whole and was waiting for the right opportunity to return. I can’t wait to bring my years of television reporting experience to radio and hope to be a voice listeners can trust and lean on each day.”

 

Audacy Announces Promotions at Corporate Promotions and Experiences Team. The company announces three moves in its corporate promotions and experiences department. Most relative to spoken-word programming is Jess Clarke’s new role as director, sports and entertainment, a promotion from her current role as regional promotions director for Audacy Tri-State. The company says, Clarke will continue to oversee the New York City market, but her primary focus is going to be leading Audacy’s upcoming performance space at the soon-to-open Hard Rock Hotel in New York City. She will spearhead Hard Rock development projects and work alongside SVP promotions and experiences Chad Fitzsimmons, sports format VP Spike Eskin, and VP of sports Matt Volk to develop sport events and platforms nationally. Other promotions announced include Bethany Kent moving into a new role as director of music initiatives and Andrea Burtscher moving from her role as regional promotion director – Northern California into the newly developed role of director, country promotions and experiences.

 

TALKERS News Notes. Nationally syndicated, San Antonio-based talk radio personality Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo announces he’s giving up his position as host of iHeartMedia’s “The Weekend” talk program. Pags tells TALKERS, “After almost 12 years, I’ve decided to stop doing ‘The Weekend w/Joe Pags’ to give 100% focus on ‘The Joe Pags Show.’ It’s been an indescribable honor and I can’t thank Premiere, the stations, and the listeners enough.” Pags’ daily program is based at iHeartMedia’s WOAI, San Antonio and is syndicated nationally by Compass Media Networks…..WPG, Atlantic City morning drive personality Harry Hurley is taking part in the New Jersey GOP Statewide Leadership Summit taking place March 25-26 at Harrah’s Marina Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City New Jersey. Hurley is serving as the moderator for a very high-profile panel on Friday as well as on a talk radio panel on Saturday. The keynote speaker for the event is former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Dr. Ben Carson…..This Thursday (3/24), Townsquare Media’s WKXW-FM, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” presents the latest in a series of Town Hall broadcasts to help New Jersey residents navigate life in the Garden State. New Jersey 101.5’s Eric Scott leads a panel of educators, behavioral specialists, education advocates and policymakers to examine how best to deal with pandemic-induced learning loss. He says, “Nearly two years of remote and hybrid learning has caused significant learning issues for New Jersey school kids. Some may never catch up.” Scott says he and his guests will help parents identify areas where their kids may be struggling, and will offer ways to take corrective action. These deficits are not confined to the classroom – social anxiety, loss of interpersonal skills and an increase in bullying has also been blamed on remote learning…..Audacy announces that Sam Levitt will join sports talk KWFN-FM, San Diego 97.3 The Fan’s flagship broadcast coverage of MLB’s San Diego Padres as pregame and postgame host. Levitt will join The Padres Radio Network broadcast team alongside play-by-play announcer Jesse Agler and color analyst Tony Gwynn Jr, beginning this season. “97.3 The Fan” brand manager Adam Klug says, “We are thrilled to welcome Sam Levitt as the new pre and postgame host for Padres baseball on the Padres Radio Network. Sam has a wealth of experience and passion for baseball that will benefit Padres fans of all ages.”

 

Russia-Ukraine War, Biden in Europe, Jackson Confirmation Hearings, Gas Prices/Inflation, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, and Severe Weather in U.S. South Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/21). Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine; President Joe Biden’s trip to Europe and his warning that Russian cyberattacks on the West are a real threat; the confirmation hearing for Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson; the soaring gas prices at the pump and the high cost of consumer retail goods; the battle for control of Congress in November’s midterms and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; and tornadoes and severe weather hit the U.S. South were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Thursday, March 17, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

‘Free Talk Live’ Co-Host Ian Freeman is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. A self-described “activist for liberty” for the past two decades, Ian Freeman co-hosts (with Mark Edge) the independently syndicated radio show “Free Talk Live.” The program emanates from Keene, New Hampshire and airs seven nights a week between 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm ET. In addition to the two co-hosts, the show presents a rotating panel of regular personalities – such as one individual whose legal name is Nobody – described as ministers of the Shire Free Church (the show’s parent organization) and features various voices from New Hampshire’s liberty activist community. It has guests and takes callers from across the nation. Although still on the air regularly, Freeman is currently under federal arrest on a wide array of charges ranging from money laundering to wire fraud. He maintains his innocence and claims the FBI and other government agencies are on the mission of shutting him up after years of dealing with the nuisance of the show’s activism and controversial information. Freeman will begin his trial later this year. Stand by for a fascinating conversation about the First Amendment, freedom of speech, liberty, civil disobedience, and the role and impact of cryptocurrency in our modern society – the connection to which a number of Freeman’s legal troubles are related. To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here.

 

Weber Named Interim Broadcast Managing Editor for WBBM, Chicago. According to a report from Chicago media writer Robert Feder, Zac Weber is being promoted from his morning editor position to interim broadcast managing editor at Audacy’s all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM, Chicago. This move comes three months after Julie Mann left the managing editor post at the station to take the public information officer role with Kane County, Illinois. WBBM Newsradio brand manager Ron Gleason says in a memo to staff, “Zac has done a tremendous job as morning editor, and there’s no question his skills of scouring the world for the latest news early each morning will pay off for all of us.”

 

Micah Goldberg Rises to SVP and Market Manager for Audacy Denver. Sales and management pro Micah Goldberg is promoted to SVP and market manager for Audacy’s Denver station group that includes sports talk KAMP-AM “The Bet 1430AM,” comedy KQKS-HD2 and three music brands. Goldberg – who was most recently director of sales for the cluster – takes over for John Fullam who had been serving as interim market manager since July 2021 and returns to his executive coaching business. Goldberg says, “Team Audacy is second to none. The pride I feel being able to continue contributing and leading a team I have such respect for is nearly indescribable. Following in John Fullam’s footsteps is no easy task, but I know Audacy Denver will continue to make him proud. Thanks to Audacy, Doug [Abernethy] and Susan [Larkin] for all the support and for this amazing opportunity.”

 

Edison: 39% of Americans 12+ Have No Radio in the Home. Calling it “radio’s hardware problem,” Edison Research says that data from its soon-to-be-released The Infinite Dial 2022 report indicates that over the last two years, the number of Americans 12+ who report not having a radio in their home has risen almost 10% with 39% reporting no radio in the home. Just 14 years ago that figure was 4%. Edison Research president Larry Rosin says, “Of course, nearly all cars have AM/FM radios easily available, and people can listen to the content of radio stations on their phones or smart speakers. However, the elimination of the standard, single-use radio from so many households makes the challenge that much harder in the location that most people spend the most hours.” Many consider the smart speaker to be the new in-home radio. Edison says it will present smart speaker adoption data when it reveals The Infinite Dial 2022 at Podcast Movement Evolutions on March 23.

 

 

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi Thanks Joe Madison for Help with Antilynching Act. Pictured above at yesterday’s bill enrollment photo opportunity for H.R. 55, the Emmett Till Antilynching Act, which specifies lynching as a hate crime act, are House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (third from right) and SiriusXM talk personality Joe Madison (far right). Speaker Pelosi thanked Madison for his efforts is raising awareness of the bill. Also pictured are: Chair Bennie Thompson, House Committee on Homeland Security (far left); Chair Joyce Beatty, Congressional Black Caucus (second from left); Congressman Bobby Rush (D-IL) (third from left); and House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (second from right).

 

WJR, Detroit Named Station of the Year by MAB. News/talk WJR-AM, Detroit was named Station of the Year by the Michigan Association of Broadcasters as part of its 2021 Broadcast Excellence Awards. This is the fifth time in six years that the Cumulus Media station has been recognized as the Station of the Year. In addition, WJR was selected for 17 “Excellence” awards, and 7 “Merit” awards. Cumulus Detroit VP and market manager Steve Finateri says, “Winning so many awards reflects the depth of talent on this all-star team. Winning Station of the Year is especially gratifying, as WJR celebrates our 100th Anniversary this year! We thank the MAB for this wonderful recognition.”

 

TALKERS News Notes. The nationally syndicated “Erick Erickson Show” is being added to the program schedule at Mid-West Family Broadcasting’s news/talk WMAY-AM/FM, Springfield, Illinois. Erickson launched the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET program nationally in May of 2021. The show is based at Cox Media Group’s news/talk “95.5 WSB” in Atlanta. Erickson says, “We’re excited to be joining the lineup at WMAY in Springfield and look forward to many great things to come in 2022.”…..iHeartMedia, Inc. announces that it has named Sam Englebardt, general partner of Galaxy Interactive, to its board of directors.  Galaxy Interactive is a venture capital franchise focused on companies operating at the intersection of content, finance and technology, with a particular emphasis on video game studios, NFTs, social platforms and financial marketplaces. Englebardt is also co-founder and partner at Galaxy Digital, a technology-driven financial services and investment management firm that provides institutions and clients with a full suite of financial solutions spanning the digital assets ecosystem. iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman says, “Sam’s expertise and deep understanding of web3, exponential technologies and the potential of emerging consumer tech platforms like NFTs, tokens and shared virtual experiences, combined with his background in media and entertainment, will be uniquely valuable to us as we extend iHeart’s presence into web3 and the metaverse.”…..Audacy Pittsburgh raises funds to provide over 600,000 meals for people in need through Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank. The “Giant Eagle Feed the Need Radiothon” aired on February 25 on KDKA “News Radio 100.1 FM and 1020 AM,” KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan” and its two music-formatted sister stations. Audacy Pittsburgh SVP and market manager Michael Spacciapolli says, “Pittsburghers help their neighbors in times of need. Our community is at the core of everything we do at Audacy Pittsburgh. The results of the ‘Feed the Need Radiothon’ are a good showcase of radio’s power in our region. We are so grateful to everyone who contributed to make this another successful year.”

 

 

Broadcasters Foundation of America Announces New Board Members and Officers. The Broadcasters Foundation of America elects Curtis LeGeyt, president and CEO for the National Association of Broadcasters, Dennis Lyle, president and CEO for the Illinois Broadcasters Association and the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation, and Chad Matthews, president of ABC Owned Stations, to its board. In addition, it names Heather Cohen, EVP of The Weiss Agency, and Judy Quaranta, a highly accomplished executive in the world of finance, as officers. Quaranta will also fill the role of vice president of finance for the BFoA. Chairman Scott Herman says, “We’re delighted to announce these esteemed individuals — Curtis, Dennis, and Chad – as members of our board. Their support of the Foundation’s charitable mission and their leadership in the broadcast industry is commendable. Heather and Judy are accomplished professionals in their individual fields, and as officers of the Broadcasters Foundation, they will help us advance our cause of helping our colleagues who are in great need.”

 

Russia-Ukraine War, Gas Prices/Inflation, Fed Rate Hike, COVID-19, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, Daylight Saving Time Bill, and Cuomo Sues CNN Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/16). The Russian invasion of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky’s appeal to the U.S. Congress, and China’s role in Russia’s gambit; the high price of gas at the pumps and the high cost of consumer retail goods; the Fed approves a quarter-percent interest rate hike; concerns about the Ba.2 Omicron variant and the rolling back of mask mandates in the U.S.; the battle for control of Congress in the November midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the debate over the Senate-approved bill that would make Daylight Saving Time permanent; and Chris Cuomo sues CNN for $125 million claiming he was unlawfully fired were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to research from TALKERS magazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Tuesday, March 2, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Radio One Swaps Frequencies in Charlotte; Sports Talk WFNZ Gets Full Market FM Signal. Charlotte sports talk WFNZ-AM is getting a full-market FM signal as Radio One swaps FM frequencies between WFNZ and hip hop/R&B “92.7 The Block.” WFNZ is now heard on WFNZ-FM at 92.7 (in addition to WFNZ-AM at 610) and “The Block” airs on FM translator W273DA at 102.5. Radio One Charlotte/Richmond regional VP Marsha Landess says, “Charlotte has continued to grow as a great sports city and Sports Radio WFNZ will continue to grow with it! Now on a more powerful FM signal, with continued live and local talent, we will be able to superserve more of our listeners and clients with broader market coverage on the FM dial.”

 

Audacy Unveils New Audacy Digital Audience Network. In an effort to present advertisers with a “high-performing audience solution,” Audacy launches the Audacy Digital Audience Network, “an addressable aggregate of over 60 million listeners that other audio platforms and streaming platforms do not reach.” Audacy says that each month, it connects with 200 million fans across its broadcast and digital assets. Over 60 million of these listeners can be found on ADAN across its streaming content, on the Audacy app and on its podcasts. Through this, ADAN can target precise audiences at scale and deliver high-performing digital audio media strategies for Audacy’s advertising partners.” The company says it “continues to provide exclusive content across news, sports, talk, music and podcasts that its listeners seek and trust as a daily habit. ADAN audiences skew more affluent, are more likely to be college educated and are more diverse – collectively bringing the highest value consumers to advertisers. ADAN provides an unduplicated reach to listeners that other audio platforms do not deliver.” Components of the Audience Network include over 230 of Audacy’s broadcast brands and thousands of podcasts. Exclusive stations, curated music stations from Audacy brands, talent and influencers and digital streams of MLB play-by-play broadcasts via flagship partnerships are also included in ADAN.

 

WWO Blog: AM/FM Radio, Print, and Podcast Ads Lead in Attentiveness. The Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group releases a new Media Attentiveness and Ad Skipping Report that incorporates several new studies that examine consumer attentiveness and concentration levels when using various media platforms, ad-skipping tendencies, and the reasons why listeners choose to use various audio platforms. Cumulus EVP of marketing and Westwood One president Suzanne Grimes says, “Our new Media Attentiveness and Ad Skipping Report demonstrates that AM/FM radio leads all media in advertising attentiveness with the lowest levels of ad skipping. Consumers also devote very high levels of concentration to podcasts since listeners actively seek them out to learn something new, which justifies premium CPMs for podcasts.” Some of the highlights of the report include: 1) Attention grows in importance among marketers and agencies: Nearly half of advertisers have discussed consumer attentiveness as a metric. Two out of three say it is important for measuring media investments; 2) Traditional media ads have greater engagement compared to digital ads: AM/FM radio, print, and podcast ads lead in attentiveness. Consumers skip social and digital ads the most; 3) Social media disconnect: Agencies/marketers overestimate consumer concentration of social media. Two consumer studies reveal social media has the lowest attentiveness of media platforms; 4) AM/FM radio CPMs should be a premium to Pandora and Spotify: Pandora/Spotify audio impressions are not the same as AM/FM radio impressions. The greater proportion of spoken word content on AM/FM radio generates much higher levels of concentration and attentiveness. The information and personalities of AM/FM radio satisfy consumer needs for information and connection. See the full blog post here.

 

KLIF-AM, Dallas Adds ‘Markley, van Camp & Robbins’ Show. The Compass Media Networks nationally syndicated news/talk program “Markley, van Camp and Robbins” is added to the program lineup at Cumulus Media’s KLIF-AM, Dallas in the 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm slot. KLIF-AM program director Bruce Collins says, “These guys were just what we were looking for to add to KLIF’s lineup, news and information and a whole lot of laughs and fun. They understand entertaining radio.” The program stars Jamie Markley, David van Camp, and Scott Robbins. Van Camp says, I’m excited and honored to be on the legendary KLIF. Having spent several years in the Metroplex, being on that station means a lot to me. Many thanks to Bruce Collins, who’s been a great partner and supporter of the show from the beginning.”

 

Todd Starnes Speaks at CPAC 2022. Nationally syndicated talk radio host and best-selling author Todd Starnes was a featured speaker at last weekend’s CPAC 2022 in Orlando. In addition to appearing on the conference’s agenda, Starnes broadcast his national radio show from the CPAC radio row during which he interviewed former President Donald Trump and South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem (pictured here with Starnes).

 

 

KYW, Philadelphia Honors 2022 GameChangers. Pictured above are the recipients of the 2022 GameChangers honors from Audacy’s all-news KYW, Philadelphia. The annual GameChangers recognize people making a difference in communities of color around the Philadelphia region. This year’s honorees were recognized at a ceremony at Audacy’s Philadelphia headquarters on February 27. KYW Newsradio community impact reporter Racquel Williams, who has been highlighting the GameChangers honorees throughout February, hosted the ceremony. The 2022 recipients were nominated by members of the audience and selected by a panel of previous honorees. Audacy Philadelphia SVP and market manager David Yadgaroff says, “KYW Newsradio shines light on the stories of people from all backgrounds doing amazing things in our communities who might not otherwise get the recognition they deserve. That’s part of our mission 365 days a year, and we’re proud to award these meaningful honors to these outstanding community leaders during Black History Month.”

 

Cumulus Media’s WJR, Detroit Helps Raise $1.74 million for Salvation Army. Detroit news/talk WJR-AM helped raise more than $1.74 million for The Salvation Army of Metro Detroit during a 27-hour radio fundraiser that took place on February 24 and 25. The Cumulus Media station presented the 35th Annual Bed & Bread Club Radiothon as station personalities including Paul W. Smith (pictured here), Sean Baligian, Kevin Dietz, Lloyd Jackson, Chris Renwick, Mitch Albom, Ken Brown, Steve Courtney, Kevin O’Neill and Guy Gordon broadcast from The Salvation Army Eastern Michigan Divisional Headquarters in Southfield, Michigan.

 

Norm Lewis to Perform at BFoA’s Golden Mike Award Dinner and Ceremony. The Broadcasters Foundation of America announces that this year’s entertainment for the Golden Mike Award Gala will be Broadway, film, and TV star Norm Lewis. Following a one-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the BFOA Golden Mike Award Dinner and Ceremony returns this year on Monday, March 14 at the Plaza Hotel in New York City. The annual event is the biggest fundraiser for the Broadcasters Foundation, whose sole mission is to provide financial aid to broadcasters in acute need from critical illness, accident, or serious misfortune. This year’s BFOA Golden Mike Award honoree will be Hilton Howell, Jr., chairman of the board and CEO of Gray Television and Atlantic American Corporation. The Lifetime Achievement Award honors a broadcaster who has made invaluable contributions to the television and radio industries. This year, it will be presented to renowned sportscaster Lesley Visser.

 

TALKERS News Notes. A new podcast starring Dennis Prager and Julie Hartman is joining the Salem Podcast Network. After reading Prager’s book, Still the Best Hope, Hartman – a senior at Harvard University – realized she actually held many conservative beliefs. She reached out to Prager, who was so impressed with her that he invited her on to his national talk show. Not long after, she sat in for him for all three hours of the show. Now, the two are launching a weekly podcast titled, “Dennis and Julie.” She says, “Finding Dennis’ work changed my life. I discovered the historic significance of the American value system and just how much our society today has come to be guided by the wrong principles. I hope that Dennis and I can make the world more understandable to our audience and impart to our listeners — especially those my age — how important it is to resist the far-left push that comes at them every day. I’m honored to work with Dennis and I’m grateful to Salem for trusting me with this opportunity.”…..CNN debuts three new podcasts. “Breaking News Alerts” – previously only available to smart speaker listeners – this audio version of CNN’s breaking news alerts offer podcast listeners a more contextualized understanding of breaking news. “Tug of War” takes listeners to the most volatile corners of the world to document some of the greatest power struggles of our time – a mission that now feels more relevant than ever – and offers historical, political, and social context for the Russia-Ukraine conflict. “Diversifying” – hosted by Delyanne Barros – presents insightful discussions about how the financial system can work for us, instead of against us. It creates a space for people who have traditionally been left out of conversations around personal finance, and who are often faced with the challenge of balancing cultural expectations against their own financial needs…..ESPN Audio says that the 2021 Share of Ear from Edison Research finds that ESPN Audio accounts for over half of all sports listening, at 53%, marking a nine percentage point increase in the same category from 2020. ESPN Audio was also shown to account for 63% of the digital sports listening space and 47% of the terrestrial sports audio space, both up a significant 8% points from 2020, respectively…..SiriusXM announces that Hope Solo, the World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist goalkeeper, will launch a new and original SiriusXM podcast, “Hope Solo Speaks,” that debuts across all podcast platforms March 2. Solo will discuss a variety of topics on her mind, including her relentless fight for women’s rights and gender equality, motherhood and family, changing trends in sports and much more. Solo will be joined on episodes of the podcast by guests from various walks of life including world-class athletes, artists, and influencers for candid conversations on their experiences, passions and topics of the day.

 

Russia’s Attack on Ukraine, COVID-19, State of the Union, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, UN Climate Report, and Sacramento Murder-Suicide Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (2/28). Russia’s continued attacks on the Ukraine and the rest of the world’s response; the rate of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and relaxing mask mandates; tonight’s State of the Union address by President Joe Biden; the battle for control of Congress in the November midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the dire warning on the effects of climate change from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change; and the murder of three children and their chaperone by the children’s father in a Sacramento church were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Monday, February 14, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Report: Ryan Maguire to Lead Programming at Good Karma’s WTMJ and WKTI in Milwaukee. According to a report by Chicago media writer Robert Feder, radio programming pro Ryan Maguire is moving from his role as executive producer of the Chicago White Sox Radio Network at WMVP, Chicago “ESPN 1000” to the Milwaukee operations of Good Karma Brands where he’ll serve as director of content for news/talk WTMJ and sports talk WKTI-FM “ESPN Milwaukee.” Maguire is quoted in Barrett Sports Media saying, “I’m going to miss working with everyone in the Windy City; in particular, Len Kasper, Darrin Jackson, Connor McKnight and our entire team that put White Sox radio broadcasts together this past season. I’m happy to call them lifelong friends.”

Monday Memo: Talk Topic Two-fer. “Making the phone ring today will be easy,” consultant Holland Cooke reckons, predicting lots of calls about the Super Bowl (commercials). But next Monday, Presidents Day, is a holiday for many “whose habit listening will be disrupted.” So, in this week’s column, HC details two sure-fire call-in topics for next Monday. Read it here.

 

Pending Business: A Customer-centric Pitch. Radio sales pro Steve Lapa says he recently saw a sign in a New York dry-cleaner/laundry window that proclaimed, “We do a better shirt.” The sign then explained the seven reasons this was true in clear, simple language. “The real lesson here is how elegantly simple this merchant crafted a customer-centric ‘pitch’ that showed the difference and advantage of buying the service they offered versus the competitors down the block and across the street.” Is your pitch to radio advertising prospects as customer-focused? Read more here.

Longtime Detroit Talk Radio Personality Frank Beckmann Dead at 72. Almost a year after retiring from Cumulus Media’s news/talk WJR-AM, Detroit, Frank Beckmann has died at the age of 72. Cumulus says Beckmann died on Saturday evening. In January 2021, the WJR late morning host announced his retirement after a 48-year radio career in Detroit. He hosted “The Frank Beckmann Show” on weekdays from 9:00 am-12:00 noon for 18 years prior to his retirement. Beckmann was recognized as Michigan’s top sportscaster for his work as the only person to broadcast games for all four of Detroit’s major sports teams and his creation of Detroit’s first sports talk show, “Sportswrap,” in 1981. He was inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame in 2008 and was also inducted into the Michigan Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame, and the VIP Mentoring Coaches Challenge Hall of Fame. In 1981, he succeeded Bob Ufer as the University of Michigan football play-by-play announcer, a job he did for 33 seasons. Over the course of his storied career, Beckmann helped raise tens of millions of dollars for Detroit area charities, including: The Fallen and Wounded Soldiers Fund; Dutton Farm, which serves those with Down Syndrome; the Autism Alliance of Michigan; and numerous other nonprofit organizations. Beckmann was also a longtime major supporter of the March of Dimes and hosted an annual golf tournament fundraiser for the charity for 37 years. Fellow WJR personality Paul W. Smith commented, “In all my years of broadcasting and all the people I’ve had the privilege of working with, Frank Beckmann was one of a kind. All of us at WJR, and for that matter, all of Detroit, have been lucky to have him.”

WINA, Charlottesville Host Rob Schilling Sues Congressional Democrats Over Records Request. According to a story in the Richmond Times-Dispatch, WINA-AM/W255CT, Charlottesville midday talk show host Rob Schilling is suing Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, U.S. House clerk Cheryl L. Johnson and chief administrative officer of the U.S. House Catherine Szpindor alleging they denied him public records related to climate change hearings. The suit, filed in U.S. District Court in D.C., says Schilling’s request for documents related to House Committee on Oversight & Reform called “Fueling the Climate Crisis: Exposing Big Oil’s Disinformation Campaign to Prevent Climate Action” have been ignored or he’s been told no such records exist. Schilling’s complaint includes allegations that “the committee’s investigation into the fossil fuel industry’s climate disinformation campaign” is not in furtherance of Congress’ duty. He also argues that it appears “consultants were hired without following the process set forth in the House rules.” The Times-Dispatch story says no hearings related to this suit are currently scheduled.

WTOP, Washington to Debut ‘DMV Download’ in April. A new, daily local podcast from Hubbard Radio’s all-news WTOP, Washington will launch in April. WTOP says “DMV Download” is “the first local daily podcast that dives deeper into the biggest and most interesting news stories impacting Washingtonians – from Anacostia to Ashburn, Silver Spring to Upper Marlboro.” The program is hosted by WTOP investigative reporter Megan Cloherty and WTOP producer Luke Garrett. WTOP director of content integration and operations Craig Schwalb states, “Launching the DMV Download highlights WTOP’s continued focus on innovation with an investment in two accomplished and respected journalists excited to bring a fresh, local news podcast to life for the DC area.” Cloherty adds, “In 20 minutes, we’ll offer listeners context on the day’s biggest stories, going past the headlines with our deep bench of sources and reporters. In my mind, if we can wrap up your workday with dependable, interesting content about our community, we’ve done our job.”

TALKERS News Notes. Boston public news/talk outlet WGBH-FM announces what it is calling “a reimagined ‘Morning Edition’ with co-hosts Paris Alston and Jeremy Siegel. GBH News says alongside the NPR “Morning Edition” broadcast, Alston and Siegel “will bring audiences into the center of these stories, adding local context and depth.”  GBH general manager of news Pam Johnston says, “Our audiences have told us that mornings matter most when it comes to news. This is when people seek out the information they need to get them going and set the tone for the day ahead. Paris and Jeremy have the intelligence, energy and authenticity we need to start our mornings right. I know local audiences will relate to their informative and dynamic style.”…..Audacy’s Pineapple Street Studios announces the debut of the new five-part podcast series “Love Thy Neighbor,” that looks at the 1991 Crown Heights riots. Emmy-award winning journalist Collier Meyerson hosts the show that explores the lasting impact those four days of violence had on Crown Heights residents and the future of New York City. Through deeply personal, new and archival interviews with residents, scholars, and activists, “Love Thy Neighbor” will show how those four days in 1991 were a flashpoint that shaped a dark new era of politics, policing, anti-semitism and anti-Black racism in New York City.

Ukraine Tensions, COVID-19/Trucker Protest, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, Crime Wave-Violence Against Cops, January 6 Investigation, Beijing Olympics, and Super Bowl LVI Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The diplomatic tensions over Russia’s military buildup at the Ukraine border; the relaxing of COVID-19 mandates and the dismantling of the Freedom Convoy blocking the bridge from Windsor to Detroit; the battle for control over Congress in the November midterms and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the wave of violent crime in America’s large cities and the spate of violence against cops; the investigation into the January 6 Capitol attack and the search for Trump administration records; the politics surrounding the Beijing Winter Olympics; and the Los Angeles Ram’s victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl LVI were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Monday, February 7, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Monday Memo: But Wait, There’s More! “Are you making these six common on-air mistakes?” consultant Holland Cooke asks in this week’s follow-up to last week’s column. HC calls these “simple techniques that make your show more inviting, user-friendly, and memorable.” Read more here.

 

Pending Business: “F” is for Frequency. Radio sales pro Steve Lapa says, “The more social media I consume, the more I see the same ads over and over. Many advertisers do not bother changing creative. Others just update slightly. But the repetition is there, every day, non-stop.” He says local direct sellers must continue to show how a radio campaign can deliver targeted reach AND frequency more effectively than any other medium. Radio advertising is adaptable in ways other advertising is not. “With the right amount of repetition and updated copy with a solid call to action” radio is more effective than any other medium. Read his column here.

iHeartMedia Names Bloomdaddy Afternoon Host on WTAM, Cleveland. Three months after the passing of Cleveland talk radio icon Mike Trivisonno, iHeartMedia announces that David Blomquist, a.k.a. Bloomdaddy, is the new afternoon drive talk host on heritage news/talk outlet “Newsradio WTAM 1100, The Big One.” Bloomdaddy has been the morning show host at the company’s WWVA, West Virginia, for the past 17 years. The program was syndicated regionally to stations in Pittsburgh, Youngstown, Akron, and Parkersburg, West Virginia.  Bloomdaddy will now call WTAM 1100 his home. iHeartMedia says the newly created Cleveland-centric, issues-based afternoon show will feature broadcasting veteran Carmen Angelo, news reports from Julie Holiday, and regularly scheduled traffic reports from Olivia Muzica. iHeartMedia Cleveland president Keith Hotchkiss says, “We’re thrilled to introduce Bloomdaddy to WTAM and the city of Cleveland. His passion for sports, his quest for information, and his commonsense approach to talk radio is the perfect combination for afternoon drive on the legendary WTAM.” Bloomdaddy comments, “I’m thrilled to launch this new show on a station that means so much to Cleveland. From the minute I turned the mic on at WTAM, it’s felt like home.  I look forward to having impactful conversations with my new radio family and learning even more about this incredible city.”

Bryan Suits Named Morning Host at KTTH, Seattle. Military veteran and talk radio personality Bryan Suits is back on the radio as morning host at Bonneville’s news/talk KTTH-AM, Seattle. Suits was an evening host on sister talk outlet KIRO-FM from 1999 through 2002. He’s also hosted at iHeartMedia’s KOGO, San Diego and KFI, Los Angeles. He hosts a podcast and is a frequent guest on FOX Business. Suits says, “When we moved back to Western Washington, the last thing on my mind was radio. After filling in on KTTH mornings, I realized that I was born to do this. This is where I started and found my voice. Someone has to reflect what the sensible people are thinking and thankfully KTTH is doing that. I’m humbled and grateful to be part of the team that tells the truth every day.” Bonneville SVP and market manager Cathy Cangiano says, “KTTH is the region’s leading conservative talk station because of our passionate, local hosts. Bryan Suits makes us even stronger. As we head into the midterm elections, KTTH is poised to make some waves.”

Erin Vermeulen Promoted to Evening News Anchor on WWJ, Detroit. Radio news pro Erin Vermeulen is being promoted to evening news anchor at Audacy’s all-news WWJ, Detroit “NewsRadio 950.” She’d been serving the station as writer and editor for the station. WWJ notes that her career has taken her to the Cairo, Dubai, Oman and South Africa before returning to the United States and working at KFI, Los Angeles as a member of “The Bill Handel Morning Show” in 2015. Vermeulen says, “I am really excited to get back to my radio roots as a news presenter at one of the most iconic stations in the country. I am also very grateful to work with such talented and extraordinary people at WWJ. It is great to be back on the airwaves in my hometown, where I started my career more than 20 years ago.” Audacy Detroit SVP and market manager Debbie Kenyon comments, “Erin is well connected to the community and has a number of great ideas to keep listeners informed about the top stories and events happening across metro Detroit, the state and the country. We are excited to promote Erin to anchor and look forward to hearing her voice on WWJ.”

WGY, Albany to Celebrate 100th Anniversary with Special Broadcast and Podcast. Albany AM WGY will celebrate its 100th anniversary on air on February 20 with a number of special presentations, including a live celebration at 1:00 pm that day. On January 31, iHeartMedia began presenting the podcast series, “Wireless: 100 Years of WGY.” The program is hosted by WGY news anchor Mike Patrick and features intimate and candid interviews with many familiar WGY voices, with new episodes released weekly. On February 20, many past and present hosts, news anchors and members of New York’s Capital Region will take part in the special live event. A retelling of radio’s first radio drama, “The Wolf,” will also be presented live from the Kenmore Ballroom in Albany where WGY has a history of broadcasting from going back to 1923. The event at the Kenmore begins at 3:00 pm with a lecture from Chris Hunter from the Museum of Innovation and Science. WGY program director Jeff Wolf says, “It’s an honor and huge responsibility to lead an institution of innovation and community service such as WGY into its next 100 years. We’re looking forward to highlighting our first 100 years and commemorating important events in history throughout 2022.” iHeartMedia Albany SVP of programming John Cooper adds, “As a longtime Capital Region resident, WGY has had an impact on my life since the early 60s. Starting as a listener, it has been an honor and privilege to have been able to work directly with some of the great news/talk programmers and personalities over my last 22 years. 100 years of service to this community is an amazing milestone. WGY is the go-to station when you need to know.”

‘The Next Great Podcast’ Winner Named. The winner of the second annual “The Next Great Podcast” contest from iHeartMedia and Dan Patrick, in partnership with Tongal, is, “Hookergate: Criminals & Libertines in the South,” from Dr. Lindsay Byron. Byron is a former English professor, Southern historian and longtime stripper turned full-time artist, storyteller and community leader. “Hookergate: Criminals & Libertines in the South” takes listeners back in time to 1977 when a high-profile prostitution ring involving 11 businesses in three states was the most-talked-about headline of the day. The podcast combs through the dusty archives of the Danville Register & Bee, which were carefully clipped and preserved by Lindsay’s aunt’s mama, who held a familial connection to this web of crime. The program shares unforgettable colorful quotes from local reporters and unbelievable but true dramatic scenes pulled straight from the police reports. It’s all brought to life by Byron and presented alongside present-day interviews with individuals from the older Southern generation, who remember the madness as it unfolded in real time.

TALKERS News Notes. Clinical psychologist Dr. Ellen Kenner celebrated her 25th anniversary show with her February 5 episode of “The Rational Basis of Happiness.” Dr. Kenner tells TALKERS she enjoys the unique connection that only radio provides and is looking forward to her 26th year on air of her syndicated show. “The Rational Basis of Happiness” is distributed via Talk Media Network…..Sports talk personality Kevin Dunn leaves Genuine Austin Radio’s “The Horn” (KTXX-FM/KTAE-AM/W270CO) in Austin for a full-time position outside the radio business and Mike Hardge joins the station to co-host afternoons with incumbent host Rod Babers.

COVID-19, Ukraine Tensions, January 6 Investigation, Electoral Count Act, Spotify-Joe Rogan Controversy, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, and Beijing Olympics Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The rate of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and abroad and the Canadian truckers’ protests paralyzing Ottawa; the investigation into the January 6 attack on the Capitol and former Vice President Mike Pence’s deviation from Donald Trump’s stance on the day’s events; the re-writing of the Electoral Count Act led by Senators Joe Manchin and Lisa Murkowski; the diplomatic tensions over Russia’s military build-up; Spotify supports Joe Rogan but deletes numerous episodes of his podcast after racially tinged comments contained within them resurface; the battle for control of Congress in November’s midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; and the politics and COVID issues surrounding the Beijing Winter Olympics were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.