Industry News

Fisher House Veterans Day Show Available for Free to Stations

The Fisher House Foundation and talk radio star Larry O’Connor are offering a free, three-hour Veterans Day edition of, “Together in Mission: The Fisher House Journey,” to news/talk stations to air imgaround the Veterans Day holiday. O’Connor tells TALKERS the program features extraordinary stories from wounded veterans, military families, and the people who help them through some of the most difficult moments of their lives. “These are compelling, deeply personal conversations about service, sacrifice, recovery, and the remarkable work Fisher House does for our military families. This is professionally produced, ready-to-air Veterans Day programming that you can offer your listeners at absolutely no cost.” Stations can learn more and register here.

Industry News

Salem Unveils Election Night Coverage

The Salem Radio Network, Salem News Channel, and Townhall Media are planning 11 hours of live coverage of the 2026 midterm elections, featuring nationally syndicated hosts Mike Gallagher, Hugh Hewitt, Larry O’Connor and Larry Elder. Coverage will imgbegin Tuesday, November 3, at 6:00 pm ET. Senior vice president Phil Boyce says, “With control of Congress at stake, the 2026 midterms could have enormous consequences for the remaining two years of President Trump’s term. From the rise of Democratic Socialist candidates and calls to impeach the president to the question of whether pollsters are once again underestimating conservative Republican voters, there are major stories to follow on election night. Our team will be there as the results come in, bringing audiences the reporting and analysis they need to understand what is happening across the country.”

Industry News

Salem Media Plans Charlie Kirk Tribute

Salem Media announces that it will “honor the life and legacy” of Charlie Kirk on September 10, the one-year anniversary of his tragic death, with a special tribute airing across Salem Radio Network, Salem News Channel and Townhall Media platforms. The special program is being narrated by Salem hosts Mike Gallagher, Larry O’Connor, and Alex Marlow, with a special appearance by imgLarry Elder.  Salem says, “The special tells the story of how Charlie started Turning Point USA in his parents’ garage and built it into one of the largest youth organizations in the country, becoming the most consequential conservative voice of his generation. The program will tell Charlie’s remarkable story largely through his own voice, including rare audio from his first interview with longtime Salem host Dennis Prager when Charlie was just 22 years old.” Salem CEO David Santrella adds, “There was nobody quite like Charlie. He connected with young people in a way few others could and turned that connection into a movement.”

Industry News TALKERS 2026

TALKERS 2026 Video: “Brave New World” – A Look at Campus Broadcasting and Radio’s Next Generation

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TALKERS continues to post a motherlode of videos recorded at the TALKERS 2026: Radio’s Next Chapter conference recently held at Hofstra University (6/5). More than 65 speakers participated in the power-packed day’s events. Today’s entry is a panel discussion titled, “Brave New World,” which explores the future of radio by presenting an informed overview of what’s happening in campus broadcasting. Moderated by Salem Radio Network and WMAL, Washington, DC syndicated star, Larry O’Connor, the panelists include (in alphabetical order): Scot Bertram, GM, WRFH, Hillsdale College; George Capalbo, VP / chief technical officer, Backbone Networks; Dr. Andy Gladding, chief engineer, Salem Media of New York / chief engineer, WRHU, Hofstra University; Shawn Novatt, director, 90.3 WHPC, Nassau Community College / VP, conference & community colleges, Intercollegiate Broadcasting System;  and Norm Prusslin, founder, advisor, WUSB-FM, Stony Brook University. Stay tuned to TALKERS for continuous daily postings of engaging sessions from the 28th installment of the longest running and most important annual talk media industry gathering. To view this presentation in its entirety, please click here.

Industry News

Free Fisher House Radio Special Available for Fourth of July Weekend

Fisher House Foundation is offering its Independence Day edition of “The Fisher House Story” to talk stations for free. “The Fisher House Story” radio special is available in varying lengths – three-hour, one-hour, 30-minutes and 25-minutes for news/talk stations plus a 30-minute public affairs version for all radio formats. It’s imghosted by nationally syndicated talk radio pro Larry O’Connor features interviews with wounded warriors and veterans including heroes from Operation Enduring Freedom, the Vietnam War and an incredible, emotional story of one of America’s World War II living legends. Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. Fisher Houses provide temporary free lodging so families can be close to their loved ones during medical care. Register for the show here.

Industry News

Free Memorial Day Weekend Show from Fisher House Foundation Available to Radio Stations

Fisher House Foundation is presenting a Memorial Day edition of the radio program, “Together in Mission: The Fisher House Journey,” that’s being made available to stations free of charge. It’s available in varying lengths – three-hour, one-hour, 25 minutes and 30 minutes – for news/talk stations and a 30-minuite public affairs show for all imgformats. The program is hosted by talk radio personality Larry O’Connor and tells the stories of America’s military heroes, the families who serve by their side, and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey. Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. Fisher Houses provide temporary, free lodging so families can be close to their loved ones during medical care because “A Family’s LOVE is Good Medicine.” This year’s program features a special focus on the incredibly inspiring victories our wounded warriors enjoy on the field of competitive, adaptive sports. Fisher House supports the Wounded Warrior Games and the Invictus Games as a vital part of the physical, emotional, and mental healing process for our wounded veterans. Listeners will hear about the riveting war stories detailing the injuries these heroes sustained, the ensuing medical and therapeutic healing process, right through the triumph on the field of international sports, as these brave veterans continue their dedication of service, representing America in international competition. Get information and register for the show here

Industry News

Salem Media to Syndicate Larry O’Connor Morning Show

Salem Media announces that the “O’Connor & Company” morning show hosted by Larry O’Connor will begin airing across the Salem Radio Network’s 140-plus affiliates and simulcast on the Salem News Channel as its national morning drive program beginning Monday (5/4). The program will continue to air as the imgmorning program on Cumulus Media’s WMAL-FM, Washington, DC. O’Connor also serves as editor of Salem’s Townhall.com. Salem says, “By aligning O’Connor’s leadership role at Townhall.com with his national radio and television presence – and his growing digital footprint – Salem is further strengthening its integrated, cross-platform content strategy. This move positions O’Connor at the forefront of conservative political discourse while reinforcing Salem Media’s role as a leading destination for news, commentary, and influential voices.” Salem SVP of content Phil Boyce adds, “Larry is the go-to media voice for the people shaping policy in our nation’s capital. He’s built a show insiders rely on and an audience that cares deeply about the direction of the country. We’re proud to imgexpand that success across our national lineup, leading the conversation every morning across America.” O’Connor says, “We’re excited to bring ‘O’Connor & Company’ to a broader national audience while maintaining the strong foundation and audience connection the show has built in Washington. At the same time, we’re building the future of media across radio, streaming, and digital platforms with Townhall and the Salem News Channel. Salem’s integrated vision aligns perfectly with my work across platforms, including my daily streaming show “LARRY,” and makes this an incredibly exciting next chapter. I’m also thrilled that my longtime collaborator and executive producer Heather Hunter will continue with the program as we expand nationwide.”

Industry Views

Conservative Talk Media Star Larry O’ Connor Interviewed on Harrison Podcast

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Cumulus Media’s WMAL-FM, Washington, DC morning show mainstay Larry O’ Connor is this week’s guest on the TALKERS MEDIA YouTube channel video podcast, “Up Close Far Out.” The episode, hosted by radio industry icon Michael Harrison, dives into the details surrounding the just-announced expansion of O’Connor’s DC-based 6:00 am to 9:00 am ET daily “O’ Connor and Company” to now being carried on the Salem Radio Network and Salem News Network’s 140-plus affiliates. Harrison also probes O’Connor’s position on a wide variety of political and social issues making for a fascinating discussion about the brave new world into which our society is rapidly transitioning. To experience the video in its entirety, please click HERE.

Industry News

SRN Reacts Quickly to WHCD Shooting

Salem Radio Network reacted swiftly to the breach of security and shooting at the White House Correspondents Dinner on Saturday night. SRN VP of news & talk programming Tom Tradup says that SRN Special Reports were fed starting just four minutes after the first shots were fired and the president was evacuated from the head table by Secret Service agents. TOWNHALL.com’s Larry O’Connor went live on imgYouTube less than 20 minutes after the shots were fired with analysis and perspective including multiple videos from different angles, as well as his own experiences over the years attending D.C. events. Tradup adds, “I am so very proud of our Salem news professionals at SRN News and TOWNHALL.com who quickly and concisely kept our audiences up-to-the-minute as this unprecedented drama unfolded.”

Industry News

Segura Named OM for WMAL-FM, Washington

Cumulus Media appoints Luis Segura operations manager for its news/talk WMAL-FM, Washington, DC, effective May 4. Program director Bill Hess retired at the end of 2025 after a long time leading the station. Segura was most recently program director for the company’s KSFO,img San Francisco. Cumulus chief content officer Brian Philips says, “Among our strong field of Cumulus programmers, Luis leapt from the pack as the person possessing the energy and imagination to lead WMAL. Luis visualizes the multi-dimensional future of this big brand. The immense benefit of keeping Luis ‘in house’ is that he will continue to offer expert counsel to our revitalized operations in San Francisco and Los Angeles, as needed.” Segura says, “I’m incredibly excited to work with the legendary staff of Cumulus’ flagship news/talk. WMAL is packed with national names like Larry O’Connor and Chris Plante, and I can’t wait to join the team.”

Industry News

Talk Host Larry O’Connor Named Editor of Townhall.com

Salem Media Group’s Townhall Media announces that it is naming WMAL-FM, Washington morning drive talk host Larry O’Connor as editor of Townhall.com, effective immediately. Townhall Media says, “Larry O’Connor is a trusted conservative voice known for credibility,img clarity, and consistency, earning the respect of audiences, peers, and industry leaders alike. He brings decades of experience across writing, podcasts, broadcast, and live events, along with a proven record of leadership, audience growth, and editorial excellence to one of the nation’s most influential conservative platforms. O’Connor is known for his deep understanding of the political and cultural landscape. His career spans multiple media formats, and he has built a large, loyal national audience by combining sharp analysis, principled conservatism, and engaging conversations.” O’Connor has been writing for Townhall and HotAir since 2016. His daily podcast, LARRY, is streamed at 12:00 noon ET on Townhall.com and YouTube. O’Connor comments, “Townhall has been a cornerstone of the conservative movement for decades, and I’m incredibly honored and excited to take on the role of editor. This is a platform with a powerful legacy, an outstanding team of contributors, and a loyal audience that cares deeply about ideas, culture, and the future of our country. I’m eager to build on that foundation, elevate strong conservative voices, and help Townhall continue to inform, challenge, and inspire readers every day.”

Industry News

Fisher House Radio Special Available for Holiday Week

Fisher House Foundation has a Christmas and New Year Holiday Week edition of “Together in Mission: The Fisher House Journey” available for stations to air at no charge and with no barter. The radio special is available in three-hour, one-hour, 25-minute, and 30-minute radio versions and are by news/talk radio personality Larry O’Connor. They feature stories of America’s heroes, the families who serve by their side,img and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey. Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. Fisher Houses provide temporary free lodging so families can be close to their loved ones during medical care. Fisher House says, “This informational talk show will leave listeners feeling inspired during the entire Holiday Week, sharing stories of amazing service members, veterans, and their families. Your audience will hear stories of heroic service members injured in combat or during training exercises as well as veterans who need long-term medical care over the course of their lives. Whether it’s a complicated birth of a child or a devastating head injury from a motorcycle accident, Fisher House is there for the spouses, parents, and children of America’s service members every step of the way. For more information on this radio special, contact Larry O’Connor at 562-665-9537 or loconnor@fisherhouse.org.

Industry News

Fisher House Thanksgiving Edition Now Available at No Cost

Fisher House Foundation is making its Thanksgiving Week edition of “Together in Mission: The Fisher House Journey” available to stations for free. You can check out a demo and register here. “Together in Mission: The Fisher House Journey” is a radio special provided in varying lengths for news/talk radio stations as well as a 30-minute public affairs show suitable for allimg formats. The program is available in three versions: three-hour, one-hour, 25-minutes and 30-minutes and are hosted by radio personality Larry O’Connor, morning drive host at WMAL-FM, Washington, DC. It features stories of America’s military heroes, the families who serve by their side, and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey. Listeners will hear their emotional stories fighting for our freedoms, how they sustained their injuries, and the welcoming homes Fisher House provides for them and their loved ones while they endure their painful and painstaking recoveries. This year’s program features a special focus on the incredibly inspiring victories our wounded warriors enjoy on the field of competitive, adaptive sports. Fisher House supports the Wounded Warrior Games and the lnvictus Games as a vital part of the physical, emotional, and mental healing process for our wounded veterans. For more information on this radio special, available cash and barter free, contact Larry O’Connor at 562-665-9537 or loconnor@fisherhouse.org.

Industry News

Fisher House Foundation Offers Veterans Day Edition of Together in Mission: The Fisher House Journey

Fisher House Foundation is announcing a Veterans Day edition of “Together in Mission: The Fisher House Journey” is available to stations free of charge. The radio special is available to news/talk stations in varying lengths as well as a 30-minute public affairs show suitable for all radio formats in the U.S. and around the world. The three-hour, one-hour, 25-minute and 30-minute radio specials are hosted by longtime radio personality Larry O’Connor and featuresimg stories of America’s heroes, the families who serve by their side, and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey. This program is appropriate for the entire Veterans Day Weekend and is a fitting, patriotic, and inspirational holiday programming alternative for all formats. Listeners will hear their emotional stories fighting for our freedoms, how they sustained their injuries, and the welcoming homes Fisher House provides for them and their loved ones while they endure their painful and painstaking recoveries. This year’s program features a special focus on the incredibly inspiring victories our wounded warriors enjoy on the field of competitive, adaptive sports. Fisher House supports the Wounded Warrior Games and the lnvictus Games as a vital part of the physical, emotional, and mental healing process for our wounded veterans. Listeners will hear about the riveting war stories detailing the injuries these heroes sustained, the ensuing medical and therapeutic healing process, right through the triumph on the field of international sports, as these brave veterans continue their dedication of service, representing America in international competition. For more information on this radio special, available cash and barter free, contact Larry O’Connor at 562.665.9537 or loconnor@fisherhouse.org.

Industry Views

An Attack on One Is an Attack on All: Why the Radio Industry Must Respond

By Larry O’Connor
Talk Radio Host
WMAL-FM, Washington, DC

imgIn the wake of Charlie Kirk’s murder, one would expect every company that owns a talk radio station, every network that syndicates conservative voices, and every corporation that employs talk radio hosts to issue a unified statement of defiance. This was not just an attack on Charlie; it was an attack on the entire industry of talk radio, on the free exchange of ideas, and on the First Amendment itself. Yet, shockingly, most of these companies have remained silent. That silence is unacceptable. At a moment like this, the industry should stand shoulder to shoulder and declare to the world: we will not be intimidated, we will not be silenced, and we will never abandon the microphone.

 

We Will Not Be Silenced

The news of Charlie Kirk’s brutal murder has shaken us to our core. For those of us behind a microphone each day, it was not just an attack on a friend, a colleague, or a leader – it was an attack on our entire industry, our movement, and the very principle of free speech.

Charlie was more than a conservative activist. He was a broadcaster, a communicator, a man who understood the power of radio and its unmatched ability to reach Americans where they live, work, and drive. He embraced our medium because he knew it could bypass the gatekeepers and speak truth directly to millions. And for that reason – because he was effective, fearless, and unrelenting – he was targeted.

Let’s be clear: this was not random violence. This was political violence. It was meant to silence a voice. And in silencing that voice, it was meant to intimidate the rest of us. To scare us into pulling our punches. To warn us that telling the truth has consequences.

Well, here’s the truth: we will not be intimidated, and we will not be silenced.

Conservative talk radio is the last truly free public square in America. We don’t answer to corporate boardrooms in New York or Silicon Valley. We answer to our listeners – the American people. Every morning and every afternoon, millions tune in because they know they will hear what the mainstream media refuses to cover. They come to us because they trust us to tell it straight. And if anyone thinks the murder of Charlie Kirk is going to drive us off the airwaves, they don’t understand who we are.

The history of talk radio is the history of resilience. From Rush Limbaugh to Charlie Kirk, our voices have endured smear campaigns, advertiser boycotts, government threats, and now, tragically, deadly violence. Yet every time they try to shut us down, we come back stronger. Every time they think they’ve broken us, our audience grows.

Charlie’s death is a wound, but it is also a call to arms – not with weapons, but with words. Words of truth. Words of conviction. Words that cannot be cancelled, cannot be censored, and cannot be silenced by fear.

As an industry, we stand together today. Whether you broadcast from a major market station or a small-town affiliate, whether your show runs nationally or locally, we are united. Charlie’s microphone may have been forced into silence, but ours will burn brighter because of it. We will carry his message, his courage, and his relentless pursuit of truth forward.

To Charlie’s family, we grieve with you. To our listeners, we stand with you. And to those who think violence can silence ideas: you are wrong. The ideas of liberty, faith, and American exceptionalism will ring louder than ever.

Charlie Kirk is gone, but the cause he championed lives on. His voice echoes in every one of ours. And we will keep talking. We will keep broadcasting. We will keep fighting – together.

Because in the end, freedom always wins.

Larry OConnor is the morning drive host at Cumulus Media’s WMAL-FM, Washington, DC. He can be emailed at stagerightblogger@gmail.com.

Industry News

Fisher House Special Available for Holiday Weekend

Fisher House Foundation is offering an Independence Day Weekend edition of “The Fisher House Story” available to stations for free. “The Fisher House Story” is available in varying lengths for news/talk radio stations as well as a 30-minute public affairs show for all formats. The three-hour, one-hour, 25 and 30img-minute radio specials are hosted by longtime radio personality Larry O’Connor and features stories of our nation’s heroes, the families who serve by their side, and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey. Hear the demo and register today at radio.fisherhouse.org. Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. Fisher Houses provide temporary free lodging so families can be close to their loved ones during medical care.

Industry News

Fisher House Memorial Day Weekend Show Now Available

Fisher House Foundation has the Memorial Day weekend edition of “The Fisher House Story” ready for stations to download for free. Stations can check out the demo at radio.fisherhouse.org. “The Fisher House Story” in four lengths – 3-hour, 1-hour, 25 min., and the 30-minute public affairs versionimg suitable for all formats. All are hosted by WMAL-FM, Washington, DC morning personality Larry O’Connor. Fisher House says, “The inspiring and patriotic radio show features interviews with wounded warriors and veterans including heroes from Operation Enduring Freedom, the Vietnam War, and an incredible, emotional story of one of America’s World War II living legends. Listeners will hear their emotional stories fighting for our freedoms, the injuries and illnesses they endured, and the welcoming homes Fisher House provides for them and their loved ones while they endure their painful and painstaking recoveries.” For more information on this radio special, contact Larry O’Connor at: 562-665-9537 or loconnor@fisherhouse.org.

Industry News

Fisher House Offers Free Memorial Day Program

Fisher House Foundation is offering a Memorial Day Week edition of “The Fisher House Story” available free for download now. “The Fisher House Story” is a radio special provided in varying lengths for news/talk radio stations as well as a 30-minute public affairs show for all radio formats in the U.S. andim around the world. The 3-hour, 1-hour, 25-minute, and 30-minute radio specials are hosted by longtime Washington, DC radio personality Larry O’Connor and feature stories of our nation’s heroes, the families who serve by their side, and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey. The inspiring and patriotic radio show features an exclusive interview with Jessica Lynch who recounts her harrowing experience as a prisoner of war during the early days of the 2003 Invasion of Iraq during Operation Enduring Freedom. Ms. Lynch reveals details of her treatment during her captivity, her rescue, the ensuing years of medical treatment and the special role Fisher House played (and continues to play) in her recovery. Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. Fisher Houses provide temporary free lodging so families can be close to their loved ones during medical care because “A Family’s LOVE is Good Medicine.” IMPORTANT NOTE: Due to a production delay, some stations may have inadvertently downloaded last year’s holiday edition. Download the Memorial Day programs here.

Industry News

Fisher House Offers Free Thanksgiving Radio Special

Fisher House Foundation is offering the Thanksgiving Week edition of “The Fisher House Story” to stations for free. The “The Fisher House Story” programs – available now for download – are available in varying lengths: three-hours, one-hour, 25- and 30-minutes for news/talk stations as well as a 30-minute public affairs show designed for all radio formats. The programs are hosted by longtime Washington, DCim radio personality Larry O’Connor and feature stories of our nation’s heroes, the families who serve by their side, and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey. The inspiring and patriotic radio show features an exclusive interview with Jessica Lynch, who recounts her harrowing experience as a prisoner of war during the early days of the 2003 invasion of Iraq during Operation Enduring Freedom. She reveals details of her treatment during her captivity, her rescue, the ensuing years of medical treatment and the special role Fisher House played (and continues to play) in her recovery. Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. Fisher Houses provide temporary free lodging so families can be close to their loved ones during medical care because “A Family’s LOVE is Good Medicine.” For more information on this radio special, available cash and barter free, contact Larry O’Connor at 562-665-9537 or loconnor@fisherhouse.org.

Industry News

Fisher House Veterans Day Weekend Shows Available for Free

Fisher House Foundation is making its Veterans Day Weekend edition of “The Fisher House Story” available for download now for free. Just register here. “The Fisher House Story” is a radio special provided in varying lengths for news/talk radio stations as well as a 30-minute public affairs show for ALL formats in the U.S. and around the world. The three-hour, one-hour, 25 and 30-minute radio specials are hosted by long-time Washington DC radio personality Larry O’Connor and feature stories of our nation’s heroes, the families who serve by their side, and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey. Theim inspiring and patriotic radio show features an exclusive interview with Jessica Lynch who recounts her harrowing experience as a prisoner of war during the early days of the 2003 Invasion of Iraq during Operation Enduring Freedom. She reveals details of her treatment during her captivity, her rescue, the ensuing years of medical treatment and the special role Fisher House played (and continues to play) in her recovery. This informational talk show will leave listeners feeling inspired during Veterans Day weekend and through the holiday season, sharing stories of amazing service members, veterans, and their families. Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. Fisher Houses provide temporary free lodging so families can be close to their loved ones during medical care because “A Family’s LOVE is Good Medicine.” For more information on this radio special, available cash and barter free, contact Larry O’Connor at 562-665-9537 or loconnor@fisherhouse.org.

Industry News

Fisher House Offers Free Veterans Day Weekend Radio Show

Fisher House Foundation is offering to news/talk radio stations a free Veterans Day Weekend edition of “The Fisher House Story.” This program is provided in varying lengths for news/talk radio stations as well as a 30-minute public affairs show for all formats in the U.S. and around the world. The programs are hosted by radio pro Larry O’Connor (AM drive host at WMAL-FM, Washington, DC) and featuresim stories of our nation’s heroes, the families who serve by their side, and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey. Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. Fisher Houses provide temporary free lodging so families can be close to their loved ones during medical care. The inspiring and patriotic radio show features an exclusive interview with Jessica Lynch who recounts her harrowing experience as a prisoner of war during the early days of the 2003 invasion of Iraq during Operation Enduring Freedom. She reveals details of her treatment during her captivity, her rescue, the ensuing years of medical treatment and the special role Fisher House played (and continues to play) in her recovery. Hear the demo and register for the show here.

Industry News

Larry O’Connor’s Over the Top Media to Produce Fisher House Shows

Fisher House Foundation announces that Larry O’Connor of Over the Top Media is taking over production of the foundation’s talk radio program, “The Fisher House Story,” that is made available to talkim radio stations for free to air around holidays including Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Veterans Day, as well as year-round programs. The Fisher House imFoundation is a non-profit that provides housing for families of patients receiving care at major military and VA medical centers so they can be near their loved ones. O’Connor, who hosts the morning drive program at Cumulus Media’s news/talk WMAL-FM, Washington, has hosted the show in the past. Fisher House says, “This informational talk show will inspire listeners through stories of amazing service members, veterans, and their families. Producer and host Larry O’Connor’s love and respect for our military will only amplify these radio specials.”

Industry News

TALKERS 2023: Video of “Programming News/Talk Radio in the Digital Era – Part 1” Posted

During the coming days, videos of all of TALKERS 2023’s numerous sessions conducted June 2im at Hofstra University will be posted, beginning today with the panel discussion “Programming News/Talk Radio in the Digital Era – Part 1.”  The session, sponsored by Premiere Networks, is introduced by Larry O’ Connor, morning host at WMAL, Washington, DC and moderated by Mike McVay (pictured at right), CEO of McVay Media Consulting.  Panelists (pictured below from left to right) include Joe Thomas, program director/host, WCHV, Charlottesville, VA; Eric Stanger, SVP operations, Sean Hannity Show/Premiere Networks; Brett Winterble, host, WBT, Charlotte; Kevin DeLany, VP news & talk programming, Westwood One; and Tom Cuddy, program director, WOR, New York. (Note: Matt Meany, program director, WABC, New York who was originally scheduled to appear on this panel switched to the “Programming News/Talk Radio in the Digital Era – Part 2” session which will be posted tomorrow.) See the video of this session here. 

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Industry News

Fisher House Foundation Offers Free Memorial Day Programming

Fisher House Foundation is announcing The Jeff Wyatt Group has a Memorial Day Weekend edition of “The Fisher House Story: On the Road to 100 Houses” for 2023 now available for download at no cost. “The Fisher House Story” is a radio special available in varying lengths for news/talk radio stations as well as a 30-minuteim public affairs show for ALL formats in the U.S. and around the world. Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. Fisher Houses provide temporary free lodging so families can be close to their loved ones during a medical crisis. The three-hour, one-hour, 25- and 30-minute radio specials are hosted by radio personality Larry O’Connor (WMAL-FM, Washington) and feature stories of our nation’s heroes, the families who serve by their side, and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey. Hear the demo, register, and download today at radio.fisherhouse.org.

Front Page News Industry News

Thursday, September 29, 2022

Glenn Beck is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. 2022 marks the 20th anniversary that Glenn Beck’s show has been in syndication with Premiere Networks. The multi-platform star is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Heard by millions of listeners on more than 400 stations, Beck is a Radio Hall of Fame inductee, Marconi Award winner and past recipient of the prestigious TALKERS Freedom of Speech Award. He’s a communications industry entrepreneur – the co-founder of Blaze Media – who’s made his mark on radio, TV (CNN, FOX), and live events – not to mention, being a 13-time #1 bestselling author and one of the few in history to have had #1 national bestsellers in the fiction, non-fiction, self-help and children’s picture book genres. He’s also a humanitarian who has raised significant funds for a number of charitable causes including helping families in Afghanistan and Ukraine, as well as fighting global sex trafficking and more. Harrison and Beck engage in a deep-dive conversation about politics, journalism, the media, privacy and the provocative topic of his latest book, The Great Reset: Joe Biden and the Rise of Twenty-First-Century Fascism (Mercury Radio Arts, Inc., 2022). Don’t miss this! To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here.

WMAL-FM’s Larry O’Connor Joins Salem News Channel for Prime Time Show. WMAL-FM, Washington morning drive personality Larry O’Connor is joining Salem Media Group’s OTT television network Salem News Channel to host a 9:00 pm ET show titled, “O’Connor Tonight.” O’Connor will be joined by top writers and editors from Salem’s Townhall.com where O’Connor also serves as a senior columnist and creative director. He says, “Salem News Channel represents the future of news content, going over the heads of the legacy media model and delivering informative, vital content directly to a passionate and informed audience. I am thrilled and honored to be affiliated with this dynamic company and am confident that ‘O’Connor Tonight’ will be an entertaining and relevant part of our daily American conversation.” Salem Media Group SVP of spoken word Phil Boyce comments, “Larry brings a wealth of experience and credibility to SNC and we are thrilled he has chosen to join us as we build this network. SNC’s prime time lineup of Andrew Wilkow, Brandon Tatum, Dinesh D’Souza, Eric Metaxas and now Larry O’Connor is second to none in the cable TV news world.”

Adams Radio Group Acquired by Adams Radio Acquisition Co., LLC.  This deal – expected to be completed by the end of this year – has Adams Radio Group being acquired by Adams Radio Acquisition Co., LLC.  This new entity is controlled by shareholders that were investors in Adams Radio Group when the group was originally formed in 2013. The company will continue operating under the Adams Radio Group banner. Adams president and CEO Ron Stone says, “I am grateful to [chairman and majority owner of the ownership group] Steve Adams for the opportunity to build a second Adams Radio Group. I served as Steve’s CFO in the original Adams Radio Corporation and had my first opportunity as a GM at KEZK, St Louis. The opportunity to work with Steve a second time and build a new group was a dream come true for me. We formed Adams in 2013 and it has been an incredible experience and I have been surrounded by some of the brightest people in the business. I look forward to seeing the company continue to grow and our most dedicated staff prosper under the new ownership and leadership.” Adams Radio owns and operates 18 stations in four markets. The press release states that sources close to the new shareholders say “plans are to continue to build upon the past 10 years and add new markets as opportunities present themselves.” Sharon Bordwell continues with the new company as CFO.  Ron Stone will continue to manage the group until closing. Stone says he expects to be busy for a few months post close wrapping up old company business and plans to take some time to assess new opportunities that will enable him to continue to make contributions to the radio industry, including continuing as president and executive director of the Independent Broadcasters Association. Kalil & Co Inc. was the exclusive broker on this transaction representing Adams Radio Group.

McFarlands Show to Launch on WNSR, Nashville. The Tennessean reports that Southern Wabash Communications’ sports talk WNSR-AM/W240CA, Nashville is launching a new mid-afternoon program starring radio pro Darren McFarland and television personality Justin McFarland, titled, “The McFarland Show with Darren and Justin.” The 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm show will debut on Monday (10/3). Darren McFarland previously served with Cromwell Media’s crosstown sports talker WPRT-FM “The Game 102.5 FM” and has been the Nashville Predators radio studio host since 2013. Justin McFarland is a morning reporter for WZTV-TV “FOX 17 News.” WNSR general manager Ted Johnson states, “It’s great having two such talented, experienced and wonderful people joining our crew. Darren and Justin will make a great team that listeners will gravitate to and enjoy. They’ll be a great complement to our daily lineup.” The two fill the slot left open by Tennessee sports personality George Plaster’s exit from the station in April of this year.

‘The Trap Nerds’ Episode to Take Place in iHeartLand on Roblox. The podcast The Trap Nerds – a collaboration between iHeartMedia and Charlamagne Tha God’s The Black Effect Podcast Network – debuts a special metaverse episode event in iHeartLand on Roblox, streaming for users on the main stage at State Farm Park. During this inaugural podcast event, hosts Dre, Eli, Tony and Exavier will discuss the last book they read, what it means to be a Black nerd (“Blerd”), Dragon Ball Z and more. iHeartLand visitors on Roblox will experience the event beginning today (9/29) and run for 48 hours through Saturday. This will be followed by an iHeartLand encore event in Fortnite beginning October 13 at 7:00 pm ET through October 19.

TALKERS News Notes. The Washington Examiner’s Juliegrace Brufke reports that Salem Radio Network talk host Sebastian Gorka hopes to be involved with any investigation into Hunter Biden that might take place if Republicans take control of the House after November’s elections. The story indicates Gorka met with U.S. Rep Matt Gaetz (R-FL) “on Wednesday as the Florida Republican attempts to recruit the controversial conservative pundit to become a staff director if a select committee is formed to examine the business dealings of President Joe Biden’s son, according to one source familiar with the meeting.”…..Red Apple Audio Networks, the syndication arm of John Catsimatidis’ Red Apple Media, owners of WABC, New York announces it has surpassed 100 affiliates across the country since it launched in February. The network’s roster consists of eight shows and features currently running on WABC, including Catsimatidis’s “The Cats Roundtable” and “The Other Side of Midnight with Frank Morano.”…..Television and radio pro Corny Koehl – formerly a programmer at ABC Radio Networks and former executive producer of Premiere Networks’ “The Dr. Laura Show” – is producing a weekly, short-form political satire podcast titled, “Thorn in the USA,” that she calls “an effort to counter the propaganda from elected officials on the far right.” It “centers on fictional host, Margaret Penelóp Taylor, aka Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s #1 fan girl/unofficial MTG whisperer. A self-described ‘Christian Nationalist’ and ‘Pro-Putin Pawn,’ Penelóp pours fuel on the culture wars and casts aspersions on her ‘libtard’ opponents. At the end of each episode is a ‘real’ call-to-action, followed by the host’s vivid sexual fantasies with her obsession, FOX News’ Tucker Carlson.”…..Cumulus Media announces the podcast “Afford Anything” joins the Cumulus Podcast Network. Creator and host Paula Pant focuses on helping listeners make smarter decisions about money, time, and life to align daily behaviors and habits with lifestyle goals. In the podcast, she also talks with guests about investing, travel, lifestyle design, financial independence, real estate, entrepreneurship, productivity, personal development, and the philosophy of money.

Hurricane Ian, The Economy, Russia-Ukraine War, Trump Legal Issues, Harris Asia Trip, Midterms/2024 Presidential Race, Immigration/Drug Trade, and Brazil Elections Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (9/28). Hurricane Ian makes landfall in Southwestern Florida; record high inflation and the sell-off on the world’s financial markets; Vladimir Putin’s attempt to annex portions of Ukraine and his nuclear threats; the legal battles facing former President Donald Trump; Vice President Kamala Harris’ trip to Asia and her visit to the Korean DMZ; the November midterm elections and speculation about the nominees in the 2024 presidential race; the Biden Administration’s immigration policy and the influx of fentanyl from Mexico; and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro’s battle to win reelection were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.