Industry News

Worldwide News Network to Air in Germany

Red Apple Audio Networks’ Worldwide News Network announces entry into its first European market as it begins a distribution partnership with BLR, a Germany leading radio news and content syndicator based in Garching near Munich. Worldwide News Network’s top- and bottom-of-the-hour newscasts and special reports are now available to German broadcasters. Red Appleimg CEO John Catsimatidis states, “Audiences around the globe deserve the facts about what is going on in our world and that is why we created the Worldwide News Network. We’re delighted to partner with BLR and look forward to working with them as we continue to expand our reach into more European markets and around the world.” Worldwide News Network SVP of news and programming Lee Harris comments, “Expanding beyond the U.S. is an important milestone for Worldwide News Network. We’re excited to partner with BLR to bring an authentic American perspective on world events. This is the first step in building an international network of partners who value trusted, high-quality radio journalism.”

Industry News

Former Trump Fixer Michael Cohen to Host Show on 77WABC

This coming Saturday (7/12), former Trump Organization attorney Michael Cohen will get behind the microphone for his first radio show on Red Apple Media’s WABC, New York. Cohen is taking over the Saturday 5:00 pm show while former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo takes the summer off. Cohen – who ended up imgtestifying against his former boss in cases revolving around Stormy Daniels – has apparently made up with President Donald Trump. Or so says WABC owner John Catsimatidis. He tells the New York Post, “I checked with the White House and they had no objection. I understand everything is fine.” Cohen tells the Post, “I was told the president gave me a glowing recommendation for this gig because he believes I’m going to be the next Rush Limbaugh.” Red Apple Media says Cohen program, titled, “When You Know… You Know,” will be a “provocative and bold new one-hour program that promises to expose the truth behind politics, power, betrayal, and the stories the headlines never tell. Drawing on firsthand experience from the highest levels of American politics to federal prison, Cohen will challenge conventional wisdom, expose deception, and deliver the kind of insider perspective few people on the planet can match.” In addition to the radio show, Cohen is also doing a weekly podcast called, “When You Know… You Know Unleashed.”

Industry News

Red Apple Ups Harris to SVP of News & Programming

Red Apple Media promotes Lee Harris to SVP of news & programming, up from his vice president of news position with the Worldwide News Network. Now, Harris will also oversee imgprogramming strategy and content development for WABC Radio and Red Apple Audio Networks. Red Apple Media owner John Catsimatidis states, “Lee is a game-changing talent. His ability to build winning content, lead high-performing teams, and understand what audiences want is second to none. As we continue growing WABC Radio, the Worldwide News Network, and Red Apple Audio Networks, Lee will play a critical role in shaping our future and driving our success worldwide.” Harris, who spent nearly 30 years as a news anchor at 1010 WINS, joined Red Apple Media six weeks ago. He says, “Red Apple Media is one of the most exciting and innovative companies in broadcasting today. Under John’s vision and Chad [Lopez’s] leadership, the company is building something truly unique in American media. I’m honored by this opportunity and energized by the challenge ahead. Together, we’ll continue creating compelling programming, expanding our national and international footprint, and delivering content that informs, entertains, and connects with audiences across the country and around the world.”

Industry News

TALKERS 2026 Video: Keynote One-On-One with Red Apple Media CEO, John Catsimatidis

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One of the highlights of the recent presentation of TALKERS 2026: Radio’s Next Chapter on June 5 at Hofstra University is a candid one-on-one keynote conversation between special guest, Red Apple Media CEO John Catsimatidis and TALKERS founder & publisher Michael Harrison. The video recording of the session is now posted on the TALKERSMEDIA YouTube channel (@talkersmedia).

Catsimatidis is a self-made grocery business and energy industry mogul whose media holdings include radio stations 77 WABC, New York and WLIR-FM, Long Island; syndication firm, Red Apple Audio Networks; and the recently launched Worldwide News Network. He is also a very active radio talk show host in his own right.

Harrison and Catsimatidis discuss an array of broadcasting topics including the future of radio as a viable business and platform, as well as his plans for the expansion of the Red Apple Media companies. The conversation includes Catsimatidis’ non-filtered views on journalism and politics, as well as his foray into motion picture acting. To view the interview in its entirety, please click here.

Industry Views

SABO SEZ: Look at the Actual Numbers

By Walter Sabo
A.K.A Walter Sterling
Host, The Other Side of Midnight
WABC, New York / Red Apple Audio Networks

imgBillionaires make predominantly good investments, which is why they are billionaires.

John Malone saved Sirius with a $500 million investment just days from the company missing payroll. He remains the controlling shareholder.

Warren Buffett just made a significant investment in highly profitable SiriusXM.

George Soros owns Audacy. Audacy’s robust list of major market radio stations are jewels that require a better financial structure. Soros Fund Management bought $400,000,000 of the company’s debt and controlling ownership. Note that Soros now owns all but one of the country’s all-news stations.

Apollo Advisor’s billionaire CEO Marc Rowan  a former candidate for Secretary of the U.S. Treasury – owns Cox Radio and Television. Apollo was an original investor in Sirius.

John Catsimatidis wrote a check for WABC-AM and is buying more properties. Radio properties. Cats owns an oil refinery, land, and the Gristedes supermarket chain, but his focus is on WABC Radio.

The health of radio? The future? Those sharp investors, brutal businesspeople, determine the business future of radio, and they are apparently very optimistic!

Failing industries don’t expand

In 1970, there were 2,126 commercial stations in the U.S.

Today there are:

  • AM stations: 4,342
  • FM commercial stations: 6,589
  • FM noncommercial (educational) stations: 4,755

Sell the biggest number

Cable channels are investor valued by “Homes Passed.” Not audience or cash flow. How many people who can see the programming rather than how many people actually see the programming.  Now apply that logic to radio station values.

BILLBOARDS sell impressions. Impressions represent the total number of people who could potentially see a billboard ad.  That is the biggest number by which billboard can be measured, so that’s what they sell.

DIRECT MAIL is the number one local ad medium. It is data driven beyond your wildest dreams. Direct mail automation uses real-time signals and integrated data to deliver mail at the most meaningful point in the customer journey. For example, when someone abandons a shopping cart or repeatedly views a product online, you can design a programmatic mailing campaign to automatically send print pieces in response to that specific consumer behavior.

Rather than pushing the biggest, stable number – CUME – radio sells the smallest measurements. Radio’s 100+ years of success, astonishing outlet growth, 92% penetration of American homes, 65% daily population usage deserve has earned a much higher commercial unit price.

Walter Sabo has been a C-Suite action partner for companies such as SiriusXM, Hearst, Press Broadcasting, Gannett, RKO General, and many other leading media outlets. His company, HITVIEWS, in 2007, was the first to identify and monetize video influencers. His nightly show “The Other Side of Midnight” is heard on WABC, New York and the Red Apple Audio Network 1:00 am – 5:00 am. His syndicated show, “Sterling On Sunday,” from Talk Media Network, airs 10:00 pm-1:00 am ET, and is now in its 10th year of success. He can be reached by email at sabowalter@gmail.com.  He can be phoned at 646-678-1110.

Industry News

John Catsimatidis Set to Keynote 28th TALKERS Conference Heading Stellar Lineup of 60-plus Speakers

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WABC, New York / Red Apple Audio Networks / Worldwide News Network owner John Catsimatidis has been named keynote speaker for TALKERS 2026: Radio’s Next Chapter set for Friday, June 5 on the campus of Hofstra University. Publisher Michael Harrison states, “The selection of ‘Cats’ as keynoter is in keeping with one of the major themes of this year’s edition of the iconic industry event – entrepreneurism. John Catsimatidis is presently setting a stunning example of entrepreneurism at work in giving an injection of much needed energy, focus and life to the medium of radio.” Harrison will serve as facilitator of the presentation in a Q&A / interview style format – a role he has played before with the dynamic billionaire media, grocery, and energy mogul. The entire agenda of TALKERS 2026 will be video recorded including one-on-one interviews with attendees as well as speakers for later playback to a worldwide audience. For the latest agenda, hotel and sponsorship info, please click here.

Industry News

Red Apple’s News Network Announces Journalist Hires; Announces Launch Date of May 23

Red Apple Audio Networks will launch its 24-hour national radio news service – Worldwide News Network – on Saturday, May 23. The company says the previously announced venture led by VP of news Lee Harris will deliver to stations “professionally produced top and bottom of the hour newscasts every hour, seven days a week, while simultaneously igniting one of the most aggressive newsroom staffing initiatives in radio imgsyndication.” Red Apple says is has brought aboard former CBS Radio broadcast journalists Michael Wallace, Cooper Lawrence, Bill Rehkopf, and Matt Pieper as “the first major hires in what will be a rapid buildout of the network’s team of elite news anchors, correspondents, writers, and producers.” Harris says, “We are assembling top-tier journalists and building a modern radio news operation rooted in speed, authority, and facts – one that stations can rely on and listeners can trust.” Red Apple Media owner and CEO John Catsimatidis adds, “Our mission is to be the most trusted news gathering organization in media. We are creating a powerful, around-the-clock newsroom designed to compete at the highest level of broadcast audio news. Facts are what will drive the Worldwide News Network. We’re looking forward to our expansion in the European markets.”

Industry Views

SABO SEZ: Jay Clark, A Real Program Director

By Walter Sabo
A.K.A Walter Sterling
Host, The Other Side of Midnight
WABC, New York / Red Apple Audio Networks

imgJay Clark was the first program director of WABC as a talk station. He set the tone and path for modern talk radio. This week I had Jay on as a special guest on the Red Apple Audio Networks all night show, “The Other Side of Midnight.” We celebrated the anniversary, May 10, (1982) of WABC’s switch from music to talk on the giant signal at 770 AM.

There could not have been a better owner at launch: ABC Inc. Facts about ABC Inc (that’s it, it was just ABC Ink):

  • ABC Inc. had launched KABC, Los Angeles and KGO, San Francisco in the mid 1960s. By 1982, when WABC switched to talk, those two stations were golden businesses. KABC was the highest grossing station in any imgformat in America. KGO was the killer biller in San Francisco. The execs who ran them were mighty proud: Ben HobermanEd McLaughlinAl RaccoChuck Debere. Yes, they ran those stations, but they also invented the caller-driven talk format. There were other winning talk stations, but they were guest centric rather than listener centric (i.e. WOR, WGN). At the time, there were 43 stations listed as “talk” stations. 43. Not many models.
  • Clark explained that KABC and KGO took 10 years to turn a profit. The business assumption was that WABC would also take 10 years to achieve that goal. Audience research, which came back after the switch, showed it would take 10 years to win a viable audience. 10 years was fine with ABC management. That’s what it would take. It took 11.
  • WABC launched primarily as live and local. Upper radio management was passionate about the talk format, they freakin’ loved everything about it. They understood its prestige. It was and is a sales format. Management nurtured talk radio and evolved it. They were committed to talk and understood the key fact for growth: YOU CAN’T SAVE YOUR WAY TO SUCCESS. At the time management’s love was essential to success because New York’s feelings for WABC as a rocker ran deep, and not many citizens or clients were in a hurry to witness its end. They were, however, in a hurry to tune to the FM band.

When walking the halls of WABC during the first talk year, one could feel the excitement and the pride. Those feelings permeated the airwaves and propelled success. One can’t find feelings on a spreadsheet, one can’t find success on a spread sheet either.

The return of feelings

When John Catsimitidis bought WABC, pride and passion returned to the halls and to the air. John and bride Margo love the station, the staff, the format, and the potential. “Cats” and station president Chad Lopez have a simple goal: “We want it to be number one.” You would be shocked at how many managers I’ve met who will never be number one – of any format – because they don’t want to be. They actually say they don’t want to be number one… or can’t.

As of today, as it was at launch, WABC’s owner is proud and passionate and will be number one. PD Kevin Droesch is very much in the Jay Clark school of understanding talent and winning.

Sure, sure you could be a cynic and assume I’m writing this because I work for Red Apple Media. But I don’t assume that you’ve met me.

Walter Sabo has been a C-Suite action partner for companies such as SiriusXM, Hearst, Press Broadcasting, Gannett, RKO General, and many other leading media outlets. His company, HITVIEWS, in 2007, was the first to identify and monetize video influencers. His nightly show “The Other Side of Midnight” is heard on WABC, New York and the Red Apple Audio Network 1:00 am – 5:00 am. His syndicated show, “Sterling On Sunday,” from Talk Media Network, airs 10:00 pm-1:00 am ET, and is now in its 10th year of success. He can be reached by email at sabowalter@gmail.com.  He can be phoned at 646-678-1110.

Industry News

Red Apple to Acquire WCRN-AM, Worcester

Red Apple Media files applications with the FCC to acquire WCRN-AM, Worcester, Massachusetts from Carter Broadcasting for $1.45 million. This will be the first signal acquired by John Catsimatidis’ media imgcompany outside of the New York City market. The station is currently airing a news/talk format of local, syndicated and brokered programming. Local air personalities include the daily morning show hosts Hank Stolz and Ben White (“Talk of the Commonwealth”) and longtime New England talk host Frankie Boyer who is heard in middays. Red Apple will assume operations under a local marketing agreement until the deal closes. Red Apple and Catsimatidis have made no indication of the company’s intent for future programming.

Industry News

Lee Harris Joins Red Apple as Company Launches The Worldwide News Network

Red Apple Media is unveiling its new global audio news platform “created to deliver fair, balanced, and real-time reporting to listeners across the United States and around the world.” The new service is called The Worldwide News imgNetwork, and Red Apple has recruited New York radio news legend Lee Harris to serve as vice president of news for WABC Radio and The Worldwide News Network. The company says, “The move positions WABC Radio and Red Apple Audio Networks for a dramatic next chapter, transforming the iconic New York news/talk station’s reach into a 24/7 global audio news presence fueled by streaming technology, smart speakers, mobile platforms, syndication, and digital distribution.” Red Apple owner John imgCatsimatidis says, “Today’s digital technology gives us the power to deliver the truth instantly, not just across America, but across Europe and around the globe. WABC Radio is already heard in all 50 states and in 178 countries through our multi-platform distribution. The Worldwide News Network is the natural next step in building a global destination for fair, balanced, no-nonsense news people can trust.” Lee Harris was the morning news anchor at 1010 WINS in New York for 30 years. Additionally, he has advised broadcasters throughout Europe and Asia, helped launch Moscow’s Kommersant FM as a U.S.-style all-news station, lectured at television and radio outlets across China through the University of Missouri School of Journalism, and served as director of integrated operations and New York bureau chief for cable startup NewsNation. Harris comments, “John Catsimatidis has never thought small, and this venture is no exception. The Worldwide News Network is an ambitious, forward-looking news platform designed for how people consume information today. I am thrilled to join Red Apple Media and WABC Radio at such a transformational moment and help build a news organization with both national strength and international reach.”

Industry News

John Catsimatidis Set to Keynote 28th TALKERS Conference Heading Stellar Lineup of 60+ Speakers

WABC, New York / Red Apple Audio Networks owner John Catsimatidis has been named keynote speaker for TALKERS 2026: Radio’s Next Chapter set for Friday, June 5 on the campus of Hofstra imgUniversity on Long Island. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, “The selection of ‘Cats’ as keynoter is in keeping with one of the major themes of this year’s edition of the iconic industry event – radio, talk media, and entrepreneurism.  John Catsimatidis is presently setting the greatest example of entrepreneurism at work in giving an injection of much needed energy, focus and life to the medium of radio.”  Harrison will serve as facilitator of the presentation in a Q&A / interview style format – a role he has played before with the dynamic billionaire media, grocery, and energy mogul.

imgCatsimatidis will be joined by more than 60 speakers comprised of legendary industry figures as well as fresh faces and rising stars. A detailed agenda including speakers and schedule – a “who’s who” of industry luminaries – will be posted in TALKERS this coming Tuesday (4/28).   See the link below for the names of all speakers booked to date.

The power-packed, one-day agenda is being organized and designed to address the field of talk media’s most pressing and existential issues. imgHarrison continues, “This important conference will illuminate the forward path of the expanding talk media universe, including all aspects of digital communications from AI and podcasting to streaming networks. As has been its tradition, this latest TALKERS conference will approach the onrushing future of the talk business from a radio perspective. This crucial gathering will cover the new undeniable realities of the radio business for those who not only want to survive but thrive as well. It will be about opportunities, networking, and entrepreneurism for individuals in talent, programming, sales, marketing, and management who are serious about staying in the game.”

Attendance at the conference is only open to members of the working media and directly associated industries as well as students enrolled in accredited learning institutions. All attendees will be required to register in advance on the phone payable by credit card. Because attendance will be limited to maintain intimacy, the conference is again expected to be an early sellout. The all-inclusive registration fee covering convention events, exhibits, food, and services for the day is $260. All registrations are non-refundable. This power-packed, one-day event is being presented in association with Hofstra’s multi-award-winning station, WRHU Radio, and the school’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication.

For more detailed agenda info please click here 

Conference Registration and Hotel Information

To register for TALKERS 2026: Radio’s Next Chapter or to obtain sponsorship information, call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413.

To book a hotel room at the nearby Long Island Marriott – Uniondale, please click here: www.TalkersRoomRate.com  or call 516-794-3800 and mention TALKERS 2026.  Act quickly because the number of rooms available at the hotel for this event are limited.

Industry News

John Catsimatidis’ Presence Growing with Role in Marty Supreme

In a piece by Stephen Battaglio in the Los Angeles Times, billionaire businessman and WABC, New York owner John Catsimatidis is profiled as his image soars nationally due to his role in the Oscar-nominated Timothée Chalamet film, Marty Supreme. Battaglio writes, “‘Marty Supreme’ director Josh Safdie cast Catsimatidis as Christopher Galanis, imga financial backer of the table tennis phenom played by Timothée Chalamet in the film. Safdie told Vanity Fair he liked Catsimatidis’ ‘larger-than-life regional businessman’ look, which he noticed when the mogul ran for New York City mayor in 2013.” Interestingly, a key focus in the piece is on Catsimatidis’ ownership of news/talker 77WABC. He writes, “Catsimatidis made millions from buying New York real estate on the cheap in the 1970s when the city was in deep economic trouble. So, he recognized a bargain when his Red Apple Media group bought WABC for $12 million from Cumulus Media.” See the LA Times piece here.

Industry News

Mateo to Host Sunday Show on WABC

Red Apple Media unveils a new weekend program on WABC, New York hosted by former NYC mayoral candidate, co-founder and spokesman for United Bodegas of America, and chairman of the New York Stateimg Federation of Taxi Drivers, Fernando Mateo. The new show, “No Excuses with Fernando Mateo” airs Sundays and 6:00 pm. Station owner John Catsimatidis says, “There are 65 million Hispanics in the U.S. and New York City is home to nearly three million of this fast growing population… With Mateo as part of our on-air lineup, we can super serve the needs and interests of the Hispanic community.”

Industry News

WOR’s Curtis Sliwa Raises Ire of NY GOP After Skit with Mamdani

Some of New York’s Republicans are up in arms over former New York City mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa’s performing a skit with New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani that promoted adoption of cats. Sliwa – a well-known cat lover and proponent of cart adoption – recorded the skit withimg Mamdani that was shown at the Inner Circle, the annual press corps roast. Some Republicans are accusing Sliwa of cozying up to the Democrat mayor who beat him in November. But Sliwa, who is now part of the WOR, New York morning show, tells The New York Times that its hypocritical of Republicans and WABC owner John Catsimatidis to complain, noting that “Mr. Catsimatidis met with Mr. Mamdani last week and that Mr. Trump has met with the mayor in the Oval Office.” See The New York Times story here.

Industry News

New York News Icon Ernie Anastos Dies at 82

Longtime Emmy-winning New York City news anchor Ernie Anastos hasimg died at the age of 82. Anastos worked at the local New York affiliates of ABC, CBS and FOX. In recent years, he hosted a feature on WABC Radio titled, “Positively Ernie.” Red Apple Media Group CEO John Catsimatidis commented on Anastos’ passing saying, “Ernie was a friend for 50 years. He was always there for every charity and worked tirelessly to help people — especially New Yorkers.”

Industry News

WABC, New York Spices Up Sunday Mornings

WABC Radio is adding a one-hour show hosted by former White House press secretary Sean Spicer to its Sunday morning lineup. “Full Court Press with Sean Spicer” will debut this Sunday (3/1) at 10:00 am ET.img Station owner John Catsimatidis says, “Big name personalities define WABC Radio. Sean is a powerful addition to our Sunday lineup and another example of WABC’s unmatched ability to attract major talent and deliver must-hear talk. The show is going to be fast, fearless, and honest, with smart conversation, sharp opinion, and honest discussion about the stories driving the country.” Spicer comments, “WABC Radio doesn’t whisper, it leads! It is one of the most iconic and influential radio stations in the U.S. WABC Radio listeners expect truth, energy, and authenticity, and that’s exactly what I’m going to give them. I couldn’t be more excited to join the incredible 77WABC lineup.”

Industry News

Andrew Cuomo to Host Weekly Show on WABC, New York

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo was a guest on 77WABC Radio owner John Catsimatidis’ “Cats Roundtable” show last month and during that appearance Catsimatidis told Cuomo, “I hear you may beimg talking a little bit more on WABC radio in the near future.” That has become reality as Red Apple Media announces the launch of “The Pulse of the People,” starring Cuomo. The one-hour show premiered yesterday (2/1) at 5:00 pm. Catsimatidis states, “Today on WABC Radio we are introducing a new program, ‘The Pulse of the People,’ hosted by former Governor Andrew Cuomo. The show will focus on listener calls and open discussion about the issues, concerns, and views of New Yorkers. WABC Radio believes in bipartisan conversation and thoughtful discussion of solutions, and we invite listeners to tune in and be part of the discussion.” Cuomo comments, “This is a moment when our country has rarely felt more divided, politics more polarizing, and public discourse more toxic. ‘The Pulse of the People’ is about cutting through the noise and the rancor to have real, substantive, fact-based conversations about the issues that actually affect people’s lives. I’ve spent my career focused on making government work and getting results, and that’s the same straightforward, problem-solving approach I’ll bring to this program.”

Industry News

Report: Giuliani Suing WABC’s Catsimatidis

The New York Post reports that Rudy Giuliani — who previously hosted a daily show at Red Apple Media’s WABC, New York — is suing the station and owner John Catsimatidis over his exit from WABC. Catsimatidis tellsimg the Post that he’s “been left with ‘tears in my eyes’ amid a bitter feud with his longtime ‘brother’ Rudy Giuliani — which escalated when the former mayor filed suit against him Monday.”  He tells the Post, “I’m very, very disappointed in my friend right now… I always supported him during his tough times.” Giuliani alleges in his suit that he was fired for going to bat for his co-host Dr. Maria Ryan for what he alleged was WABC’s wage-based sex discrimination against her. Ryan is also suing the station for wage-based sex discrimination. Meanwhile, regarding Giuliani, Catsimatidis tells the Post, “We didn’t fire him — we suspended him pending a cooling-off period, Friday to Monday. He just didn’t come back.” See the Post story here. 

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

WABC and Cuomo Talking About a Weekend Show. Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and WABC, New York owner John Catsimatidis are talking about a new, weekend talk show that the Cuomo would host. The New York Post reports that during Cuomo’s appearance on Catsimatidis’ “Roundtable” show, Catsimatidis stated, “I hear you may be talking a little bit more on WABC radio in the near future,” with Cuomo replying, “I think your station has an audience that is participatory, and large. It’s very important… that we understand what’s going on and have informed dialogue and your station is a great vehicle to do that.” 

WWO and Barbasol Celebrate 20 Years. Cumulus Media’s Westwood One and Barbasol are celebrating the 20th anniversary of one of sports media’s longest running brand partnerships: Barbasol’s sponsorship of the NFL on Westwood One. Westwood One president & Cumulus EVP Collin Jones says, “Long-term partnerships like this aren’t built on transactions, they’re built on alignment, honesty, and a willingness to evolve together. Barbasol activates with authenticity and consistency, whether supporting our talent, engaging fans, or backing causes that mean something to the players and analysts our listeners know and love. That’s why it works, why it’s lasted—and why we’re thrilled to mark 20 years with the brand. A special thanks to the Barbasol team and Murray family for their enduring partnership.”

Skyview Brings Doughty Aboard. Skyview Networks names Brian Doughty director, network sales. The company says that in this role, he’ll will work closely with its experienced sales team to continue elevating the overall sales strategy, utilizing his knowledge of the industry to deliver results for sports and network audio partners.

MIW Names Four to Board of Directors. Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc announces the addition of four new members to its Board of Directors, along with the appointment of current Board Member Randi P’Pool to the Executive Board as Secretary. New board members include: Townsquare Media’s Allyson Hillman, Audacy’s Kieran Geffert, Radio One’s Lauren “Lo” Sessions-Barker, and Salem Media Group’s Linnae Young. 

Industry News

John Terrett to Host Red Apple Market Reports

Red Apple Media announces that John Terrett is the host of the twice-daily Red Apple AM/PM Market Reports. CEO John Catsimatidis says, “More than ever before, listeners need clarity on what’s happening on Wall Street. John has been a guest on my Sunday program, ‘The Cats Roundtable,’ many times, and his exceptional understanding of the financial world arms listeners with the knowledge they need to make smart financial decisions.”

Industry News

WABC, New York Adds Concha to Weeknights

Red Apple Media’s news/talk WABC, New York adds Joe Concha to its weeknight lineup,img airing from 9:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Concha has been hosting a Sunday show from 11:00 am to 12:00 noon and will continue in that role. Red Apple CEO John Catsimatidis says, “Joe is exactly the kind of smart, credible, non-nonsense voice we promised our listeners. Listeners trust Joe and his ratings success backs that up. We are delighted to add him to our weeknight programming.” Concha is a columnist, author, and FOX News contributor. 

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

CMG Atlanta Collects Food for Charity. Cox Media Group Atlanta’s radio stations partnered with the Atlanta Community Food Bank to collect 10,700 pounds of food leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday. CMG Atlanta VP and general manager David Abel says, “Congratulations to our CMG Atlanta radio team and our incredible listeners for their hard work and generosity. It is an honor serving the needs of our communities and our team couldn’t be happier with the results of this year’s food drive. Being able to provide 20,188 meals will make a real difference for local families who need it most.”

77WABC Partners with Shriners Children’s. 77WABC in New York City partnered with Shriners Children’s for a multi-media campaign that will increase awareness and support for the mission of providing children with The Most Amazing Care Anywhere for Giving Tuesday. Station owner John Catsimatidis says, “Children are our future. We are proud to partner with Shriners Children’s and support their mission of providing specialty medical care to children across the country and around the world.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

MIW Announces Digital Sales Mentorship Program. Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc announces the second annual Digital Sales Mentorship Program designed to accelerate the growth and professional development of women in digital radio sales. It provides one exceptional female seller or manager with personalized, hands-on mentorship from an accomplished industry leader. The selected mentee will receive monthly one-on-one coaching from an experienced mentor, access to digital subject-matter experts, and targeted guidance across key areas of digital revenue strategy. Find out more and apply here.

WABC Presents Future of NYC Presser. Red Apple Media’s WABC, New York is presenting a live press conference at 11:00 am ET on the future of New York City under Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. It’s being hosted by WABC’s Dominic Carter with panelists including Red Apple CEO John Catsimatidis, former Governor David Paterson, political activist Fernando Mateo, and Kathryn Wylde president of the Partnership for NYC.

Industry News

WABC’s John Catsimatidis Mulls Moving to Florida

As New York City businesspeople prepare for Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani to assume control of the city, some are saying they will re-locate their businesses from New York City for fear of how Mamdani policies will affect their bottom line. Red Apple Media and WABC owner John Catsimatidis is one of those. He is featured in a piece in Forbes in which he says, “I think a lotimg of businesspeople are reducing their exposure to New York City.” He tells Forbes he’s looking for “friendly states.” “The key word is a commonsense place to do business in.” Catsimatidis, whose business interests include Gristedes supermarkets and a controlling share of D’Agostino stores, was irked by Mamdani’s promise of opening “cheap city-run grocery stores” in each of the boroughs. Catsimatidis tells Forbes, “‘We don’t have any profit margins,’ he says, explaining that his stores have been losing money for ‘at least two years.’ He blames the state of the city: ‘Shoplifting is up to an all-time high. A lot of stuff is being closed up, which means that it’s not easy for people to shop, so sales are down.’” Catsimatidis does not talk about his radio businesses in the article but given how much effort he’s put into covering local New York news and his hiring local talk hosts and journalists, it’s hard to imagine him running the radio stations from another state such as Florida. Read the Forbes story here.

Industry News

News/Talk Radio Covers Elections

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New York City’s mayoral race was being watched across the country and Red Apple Media’s WABC, New York presented a bi-partisan Roundtable of its hosts and local political figures to analyze and discuss the race. Pictured above in the station’s Studio 77 in Manhattan are (from l-r): WABC owner and talk host John Catsimatidis; Rabbi Joseph Potasnik, co-host of 77WABC’s “The Rev & The Rabbi”; Fernando Mateo, NYC businessman, activist, and politician; Dominic Carter, host of the “Dominic Carter Show” on 77WABC; former New York Governor David Paterson; and former Congressman Anthony Weiner. Elsewhere, on the nationally syndicated “Erick Erickson Show,” media personality Megyn Kelly joined to discuss the New York City mayoral election and key races across the country. She and Erickson also explored Charlie Kirk’s influence, the future of the Republican Party, and its path forward. Former Vice President Mike Pence also appeared on the program to discuss his upcoming book, What Conservatives Believe. He and Erickson discussed Pence’s unique relationship with the late Dick Cheney, key accomplishments of the Trump-Pence administration, and the troubling rise of antisemitism on both the left and the right. Photo by Michelle Jerson