Tag: Mike Kinosian

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

Tuesday, May 17, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Radio One Names Jeff Rickard Program Director for Sports Talk WFNZ, Charlotte. Sports talk radio pro Jeff Rickard is named program director for Radio One’s WFNZ-AM/FM. Rickard most recently served as brand manager for Audacy’s WEEI-FM, Boston. Prior to that, he was PD and morning host at Emmis’ WFNI, Indianapolis. During his career he’s also served with Comcast, ESPN Radio, and Sirius XM. Radio One RVP Marsha Landess comments, “We are committed to making sports radio even bigger in Charlotte, adding the 92.7 FM signal in March was just the beginning of that commitment. Having a successful veteran like Jeff Rickard join our team will help take us to the level that a passionate sports city like Charlotte deserves. Jeff brings to WFNZ extensive sports experience, talent, drive, and a passion for success. He will be a great complement to our incredibly talented local Charlotte on-air team. After our first conversation I knew he was the one to take us to the next level. As the flagship station for the Charlotte Hornets as well as Charlotte FC we are looking forward to an incredibly successful future with Jeff leading the charge.” Rickard adds, “I had been planning on taking a professional sabbatical this year but after meeting with Marsha Landess and learning more about Radio One, I began to get more excited to get back to work. Radio One as a company, combined with Marsha’s leadership and the potential for WFNZ, was just too appealing to not be a part of. I am extremely grateful to Radio One for this opportunity and can’t wait to start working with the talented staff in Charlotte. My family and I are all in on this situation and can’t wait to get started on this new chapter.”

 

Round One of April PPMs Released. The first of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s April 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 April 2022 sweep covered March 31 – April 27. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In New York, Red Apple Media’s news/talk WABC-AM/WLIR-FM dips two-tenths, posting a 3.6 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) but remains ranked #8. Audacy’s crosstown all-news WINS is up one-tenth, finishing the survey with a 4.2 share and rises to #6. iHeartMedia’s news/talk KFI, Los Angeles climbs four-tenths to wrap the survey with a 5.1 share and climbs to the #3 rank, while Audacy’s all-news KNX-FM loses half a share for a 3.4 share finish and falls to the #8 rank.  In Atlanta, Cox Media Group’s news/talk WSB-AM/WSBB-FM sheds a half share but remains ranked #3 on the strength of a 6.4 share. Townsquare Media’s news/talk WKXW-FM, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” is ranked #1 in the Middlesex-Somerset-Union market despite losing seven-tenths and finishing with a 6.1 share. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

 

FMR Associates-Eastlan: Radio Listening Rises 31% in Last Six Months. According to a study conducted in March and April for FMR Associates and Eastlan Ratings clients to determine usage levels of local AM/FM radio compared to the period six months prior, a number of positive conclusions were reached. The study reveals that in the last six months, weekly AM/FM radio listening is on the increase: 31% indicate they are listening to radio more, compared to 18% listening less. This finding is regardless of sex, age or market rank. FMR Associates-Eastlan says, “This unique finding bodes well for traditional radio growing as the pandemic comes to an end and even as more audio options such as podcasts and streaming platforms are available.” Digging deeper, the study found that the increase in weekly AM/FM listening is greatest among adults 25-44 at 37%. Men and women are equally increasing their listening time with AM/FM radio. More people going back to work, commuting and some cutting back on subscription audio or video services are among the primary factors cited for increased AM/FM consumption. Also, current weekly AM/FM radio listening is at 86% in the 25 to 64 age group. Significantly, cume listening is strong and consistent regardless of age, sex, market rank or geographic region. The statistically projectable national survey of 25 to 64 year-old adults from the thousands surveyed each month by Eastlan was demographically balanced and geographically representative.

 

Audacy’s State of Audio Explores Key Audio Trends. The second edition of Audacy’s “State of Audio” e-book that details key insights relevant to the listeners, creators and advertisers revolutionizing audio has been released. Some of the key metrics from the guide include: 1) Audio revenue outpaced video in 2021. Per the latest IAB Advertising Revenue Report, audio streaming revenue is up +59% YOY. And audio streaming growth is outpacing investments in video, social and search; 2) Audio usage has eclipsed TV, including CTV Audio reaches everyone, with 99% of US adults reporting using audio monthly. And that’s more than the total use of TV, including connected devices. (Source: Nielsen, Q4 2021); and 3) Time spent listening on AM/FM streaming and podcast content has increased +64% from 2015 to Q1 2022. (Source: Edison Research, Share of Ear Study, Q4 2015-Q1 2022). Audacy chief marketing officer Paul Suchman comments, “Audio is a trusted companion to hundreds of millions of listeners and more than any other medium, the best way creators across the globe connect with their audiences authentically and intimately at scale. Our second edition of the ‘State of Audio, The Disruptors: The Listeners, Advertisers, and Creators Revolutionizing Audio’ focuses on the people, strategies, and content shaping Audio’s meteoric rise as a must have media for marketers.” See more here.

 

KBLA, Los Angeles Debuts ‘A More Perfect Union.’ A new weekend program is launching this Sunday (5/22) on Smiley Audio Media’s KBLA, Los Angeles. “A More Perfect Union,” hosted by journalist, educator, and KBLA “Talk 1580” chief national political analyst Dr. Nii-Quartelai Quartey. Airing from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon, the program is a “national public affairs program, featuring notable journalists, industry leaders, lawmakers, changemakers, tastemakers, and ordinary people motivated to do their part to reach beyond today’s divisions; make sense out of news of the day and offer listeners a chance to build a more perfect union.” Smiley Audio Media owner Tavis Smiley says, “Now more than ever the Black constituency must first be made aware, and then armed with information that can help advance the issues we care about and repel the ideas that are antithetical to the best interests of our community. The time is now for ‘A More Perfect Union,’ which is a weekly show designed to keep our community in the know with a moderator like Dr. Quartey, who keeps his ear to the ground and his heart attuned to the causes we care about.”

 

‘100 Years of WGN Radio’ to Air on WGN-TV. On Thursday (5/19) at 7:00 pm, the special program, “100 Years of WGN Radio: A Retrospective,” will air on WGN-TV, Chicago. The 45-minute documentary produced by WGN Radio tells the story of the station, starting with its beginnings in 1922 when it was founded by Chicagoans Thorne Donnelley and Elliott Jenkins as WDAP, to highlighting moments throughout its century of history up to present day. Viewers will see the faces of familiar voices, including Bob Sirott, John Williams, Lou Manfredini, Steve King and Johnnie Putman, Dave Eanet, Mary Van De Velde, Dave Plier, and others, reflecting on their experiences at the station and sharing memorable moments. The program will be re-broadcast on Sunday, May 22 at 2:00 pm CT on WGN-TV.

 

Tim Hartlage Returns to Salem to Lead Sales in Nashville. Radio management pro Tim Hartlage is returning to Salem Media Group to serve as general sales manager for the company’s Nashville operations. Hartlage served as GSM and then general manager for the company’s Louisville station group from 2005 to 2015. He says, “Leaving Salem in 2015 to plant a much-needed church and ministry in Louisville’s southwest area, my old neighborhood, with my wife Jennifer, was one of the toughest decisions we had ever made. Returning to Salem and joining the Nashville team as general sales manager was one of the easiest. Salem Nashville is in an incredibly vibrant market with a great reputation. It’s great to be a part of the Salem Family again. It feels like a homecoming.”

 

Buffalo Shooting/Great Replacement Theory, the Economy, Russia-Ukraine War, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, COVID-19, and UFO Hearing Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/16). The aftermath of the deadly Buffalo shooting and talk of the Great Replacement Theory; the financial markets, inflation, and concerns about a major recession on the horizon; Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and Vladimir Putin’s threats against Finland and Sweden; the primary races for November’s midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the U.S.; and today’s scheduled 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 One

By Editor | by Editor

April 2022 PPM Data – Information for the April 2022 ratings period has been released for New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; San Francisco; Dallas; Houston; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario; San Jose; and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.

Nielsen Audio’s 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; the NBA playoffs got underway on May 1; and the NHL playoffs started on May 2.

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.8 – 3.6, -.2, repeats in eighth-place

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.6 – 2.3, -.3, #16 to #19

News: Audacy’s WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 4.1 – 4.2, +.1, seventh to sixth and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.4 – 2.9, +.5, #18 to #13

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees and Brooklyn Nets) 3.1 – 3.5, +.4, #12 to #9

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.4 – 3.3, -.1, flat at #10

Number One 6+: Emmis urban AC WBLS, fourth consecutive month, steady at 6.5

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (+1.1)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW (-.8)

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.7 – 5.1, +.4, fifth to third

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 3.9 – 3.4, -.5, seventh to eighth

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.4 – 2.1, -.3, #16 to #19

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, tenth successive month, 5.5 – 5.8, +.3

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase (Tie): sports talk KLAC (Dodgers and Clippers) and Spanish classic hits-oldies KFWB (+.6)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: news KNX (-.5)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” (Blackhawks) 3.5 – 3.1, -.4, #7 to #11

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 5.5 – 4.6, -.9, second to fifth

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 5.4 – 4.8, -.6 third to fourth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WVAZ, fourth consecutive month, 5.8 – 6.0, +.2

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase (Tie): classic rock WDRV and hot AC WTMX (+.9)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: news WBBM-AM & WCFS (-.9)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 2.4 – 1.9, -.5, #14 to #17

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 7.0 – 6.1, -.9, second to third

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.1 – 4.3, +2.2, #15 to #6

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.’s KQED 9.0 – 7.7, -1.3, first

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KQED, fourth straight month, 9.0 – 7.7, -1.3

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: sports talk KNBR (+2.2)*

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk KQED (-1.3)

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

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.2 – 2.9, -.3, #12 to #16

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” 2.7 – 2.1, -.6, #15 to #19

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) 3.5 – 3.6, +.1, repeats in tenth-place

Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Rangers) 2.2 – 2.5, +.3, #18 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 3.8 – 3.6, -.2, ninth to tenth

Number One 6+: Univision regional Mexican KLNO, third month in a row, 6.8 – 6.1, -.7

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: regional Mexican KMVK (+1.2)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: urban contemporary KKDA-FM (-.9)

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) 4.3 – 4.2, -.1, seventh to tenth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston-owned KUHF 2.7 – 2.4, -.3, locked on #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, thirteenth consecutive month, 7.5 – 6.8, -.7

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: Spanish contemporary KLOL (+1.0)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KODA (-.7)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 6.9 – 6.4, -.5, repeats in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) 2.0 – 2.4, +.4, #17 to #15

Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks) 2.0 – 2.2, +.2, #17 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 3.5 – 3.2, -.3, #8 to #12

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, fourth successive month, 8.1 – 7.4, -.7

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: CHR WWPW (+1.2)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WSRV (-.7)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 4.7 – 5.4, +.7, repeats in seventh-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies) 3.9 – 5.2, +1.3, ninth to eighth

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers and Flyers) 2.5 – 2.4, -.1, stays at #13

WIP’s internet stream, 1.9 – 2.0, +.1, remains at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 6.9 – 5.6, -1.3, third to fourth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM, third successive month, 8.2 – 7.3, -.9

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: sports talk WIP (+1.3)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WHYY (-1.3)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 3.7 – 3.4, -.3, seventh to ninth

Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 2.7 – 2.0, -.7, #13 to #17

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets)” 2.7 – 3.2, +.5, #13 to #10 and cluster-mate WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 3.0 – 2.8, -.2, #11 to #13

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees and Brooklyn Nets) 2.6 – 3.0, +.4, #15 to #11

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM, first month, 5.2 – 5.4, +.2

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: hot AC WALK-FM (+.6)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: classic rock WAXQ (-1.5)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, steady at .4, unchanged at #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, fourth consecutive month, 7.5 – 7.6, +.1

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: hot AC KBIG (+.9)

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

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KGO “810 AM” 1.7 – 1.8, +.1, #14 to #15 and cluster-mate KSFO “Talk Radio 560” flat at  1.8, #13 to #15

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” unchanged at 4.4, continues in fourth-place

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 1.0 – 2.9, +1.9, #23 to #8

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Empire country KRTY third straight month 10.9 – 9.3, -1.6

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: sports talk KNBR (+1.9)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: country KBAY (-2.0)**

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

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.8 – 6.1, -.7, first

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 1.6 – 1.8, +.2, #18 to #16

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees and Brooklyn Nets) 3.0 – 3.1, +.1, flat at #9

Emmis’ WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” .8 – 1.6, +.8, #23 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: news/talk WKXW, third month in succession, 6.8 – 6.1, -.7

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: urban contemporary WWPR (+2.0)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (-1.4)

Up next: April 2022 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

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

Front Page News Industry News

Monday, April 25, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Monday Memo: NAB, Long Time No See. For the first time in three years there’s a NAB Show in Las Vegas, and in a Sunday ceremony Jim Bohannon was inducted into the National Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame. Covering the convention for TALKERS, Holland Cooke says, “There are still some masks, and – after three years – lots of hugs.” Also, in today’s column, HC’s notes from a conference session that asked, “What Business Are You In?” Read it here.

 

Pending Business: Raising Your Rates? Radio sales pro Steve Lapa writes in today’s column about the soaring cost of, well, just about everything and how that’s probably what forced a station he deals with to raise its rates by 250%! If you’re a seller who has to break the rising rates to your clients, how do you do it gently? He offers some thoughts on that. Read it here.

 

Round Four of March PPMs Released. The fourth of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s March PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen’s March 2022 sweep covered March 3 – March 30. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. Emmis Communications’ news/talk WIBC-FM, Indianapolis sheds two-tenths to finish the survey with a 9.5 share (6+, weekly AQH share) but remains locked in the #2 rank. In Milwaukee, the battle between iHeartMedia’s news/talk WISN and Good Karma Brands’ news/talk WTMJ tightens. WISN lost 1.2 shares to finish with an 8.3 share good for the #2 rank, while WTMJ adds six-tenths for an 8.2 share finish that moves it into the #3 rank. Cumulus Media’s news/talk WWTN-FM, Nashville dips four-tenths to wrap the survey with a 6.8 share that keeps it ranked #2, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk WLAC-AM slides two-tenths to a 3.1 share and falls back to the #12 rank. In Jacksonville, Cox Media Group’s news/talk WOKV-FM rises three-tenths to a 10.5 share and remains #1 in the market. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets (as well as the first three groups) here.

 

Beasley Promotes Tina Murley to Chief Revenue Officer. Media sales pro Tina Murley is promoted to chief revenue officer for Beasley Media Group. Murley most recently served as the vice president of sales at the company since December 2020 and prior to that was director of sales at the company’s cluster for six years. In her new role, she will be responsible for overseeing all revenue on behalf of the company. Beasley CEO Caroline Beasley states, “It is an absolute privilege to promote Tina to the position of chief revenue officer at Beasley Media Group. She has done a phenomenal job leading our company’s sales efforts over the past two years. Her ‘can do’ spirit and ability to lead our sales teams has been truly exceptional. I look forward to her continuing to drive our revenue growth across all the company’s platforms well into the future.” Murley comments, “I want to thank Caroline, Bruce, Brian, Brad and the entire Beasley family for entrusting me to lead the sales charge for Beasley Media Group. When I joined the company, I had the honor of meeting George Beasley and knew instantly that I wanted to play a larger role in his company. What I didn’t know is that I would be joining a collaborative and dedicated sales force that leads with ideas and is truly vested in client success. As CRO, I look forward to empowering our best-in-class team to succeed, grow revenue, and deliver results for our valued clients and shareholders.”

 

The Economy, Russia-Ukraine War, January 6, COVID-19, DeSantis vs Disney, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, Musk vs Twitter, and France Re-Elects Macron Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. Friday’s Wall Street sell-off, the high price of gasoline & food, and concerns about a recession; the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine and Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s trip to Ukraine; the recording of Republican House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy saying Donald Trump should resign the presidency following the January Capitol attack; the controversy over mask mandates, the watch for BA.2 variant outbreaks, and the lockdowns in China; Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ move to punish Disney by taking away its special tax status; the battle for control of congress in the November midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; Elon Musk’s negotiations with Twitter over his go-private bid; and Emmanuel Macron defeats Marine Le Pen to remain president of France were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

March 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

By Editor | by Editor

March 2022 PPM Data – Information for the March 2022 survey period has been released for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.

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+).

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media-operated KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 4.7 – 4.8, +.1, ninth to seventh

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” 2.2 – 1.7, -.5, #15 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas-owned KUT 6.3 – 6.8, +.5, third to second

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media-operated adult hits KBPA, third month in a row, 8.7 – 10.0, +1.3

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: adult hits KBPA (+1.3)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classical KMFA (-1.8)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 7.6 – 6.7, -.9, third to fourth

Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” 2.0 – 1.9, -.1, repeats at #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 1.8 – 2.5, +.7, #15 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 8.5 – 7.8, -.7, first to third

Number One 6+: Capitol Broadcasting adult contemporary WRAL, first month, 7.7 – 8.4, +.7

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: classic rock WRDU (+1.3)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: news/talk WTKK (-.9)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Emmis’ WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 9.7 – 9.5, -.2, locked in the runner-up slot

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Emmis-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” (Pacers) 3.9 – 3.3, -.6, repeats in tenth-place

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” flat at .9, continues at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 5.9 – 4.7, -1.2, sixth to seventh

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK, third successive month, 12.1 – 12.4 +.3

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): country WLHK and alternative WOLT (+.7)

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

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 9.5 – 8.3, -1.2, continues at #2

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Bucks) 7.6 – 8.2, +.6, fourth to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” 1.6 – 1.5, -.1, flat at #15

Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” 1.5 – 1.2, -.3, repeats at #16

Audacy’s WSSP “1250 AM The Fan” .8 – 1.0, +.2, steady at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 5.6 – 5.9, +.3, sixth to fifth

Number One 6+: Saga Communications classic rock WKLH, first month, 8.8 – 8.9, +.1

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: news/talk WTMJ (+.6)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classic hits/oldies WRIT (-2.0)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 7.2 – 6.8, -.4, repeats in the runner-up slot

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 3.3 – 3.1, -.2, #11 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” 2.4 – 2.8, +.4, steady at #14

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) .7 – 1.0, +.3, remains at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 6.0 – 5.5, -.5, sixth to seventh

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult hits WCJK, third month in a row, 8.2 – 7.5, -.7

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): alternative WBUZ and contemporary Christian WFFH (+.8)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: CHR WRVW (-.9)

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 6.9 – 6.7, -.2, stays in fourth-place

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” flat at .8, repeats at #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Celtics, and Bruins) 3.7 – 3.9, +.2, steady in eighth-place

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 3.6 – 3.7, +.1, unchanged at #9

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 2.9 – 3.1, +.2, anchored in tenth-place

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN flat at 2.3, steady at #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia rock WHJY, second straight month, 11.1 – 11.3, +.2

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: CHR WPRO-FM (+.4)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease (Tie): country WKLB and classic hits-oldies WSKP (-.4)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 2.3 – 2.5, +.2, #14 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.1 – 1.0, -.1, #18 to #19

Sinclair’s WTAR “Sports Radio 850” .3 – .4, +.1, continues at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, third month in succession, 10.6 – 10.4, -.2

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

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WVBW (-1.5)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 10.2 – 10.5 +.3, #1

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WOKV-AM “ESPN Jacksonville 690 AM” 1.2 – .7, -.5, #16 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT  flat at 3.7, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: news/talk WOKV-FM, third consecutive month, 10.2 – 10.5 +.3

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: country WQIK (+1.6)*

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: urban contemporary WJBT (-.9)

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

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WJNO “News Radio 1290” flat at  2.3, repeats in ninth-place

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 1.7 – 1.3, -.4, #11 to #13

iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 1.3 – 1.1, -.2, flat at #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” .6 – .4, -.2, #17 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 3.2 – 3.8, +.6, seventh to sixth

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF, third month in succession, flat at 9.6

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: country WIRK (+.9)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WEAT (-2.5)**

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

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 5.7 – 5.1, -.6, carries on in fifth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 3.6 – 3.4, -.2, ninth to tenth

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.6 – 1.5, -.1, remains at #14

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WQMG, third month in a row, steady at 13.4

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: CHR WMKS (+.6)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: country WPAW (-.8)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 3.0 – 2.5, -.5, #13 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 3.5 – 3.4, -.1, repeats in tenth-place and WMFS’ internet stream .7 – 1.0, +.3, #18 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications’ WKNO 1.3 – 1.8, +.5, #17 to #16

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO, third successive month, 12.4 – 13.6, +1.2

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO (+1.2)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WRVR (-1.6)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 5.3 – 5.1, -.2, seventh to ninth

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” 1.1 – 1.0, -.1, #14 to #15

The internet stream of Audacy’s WTIC-AM, 1.5 – .6, -.9, #13 to #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 1.1 – 1.0, -.1, #14 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 9.6 – 10.1, +.5, anchored in the runner-up slot

New England Public Media’s flat at .4, #19 to #20

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 25th successive month, unchanged at 10.9

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: rhythmic CHR WZMX (+1.0)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: hot AC WTIC-FM (-1.5)

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

Front Page News Industry News

Friday, April 22, 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, “MiGs, Masks & Musk,” looks back at this past week of 4/18 to 4/22. The program features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS; Christopher Ruddy, CEO Newsmax; Dr. Daliah Wachs, physician/talk show host, Genesis Communications Network; Bill O’Reilly, talk show host/commentator, Key Networks; and Joe Madison, talk show host, SiriusXM Satellite Radio. 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; KQSP, Minneapolis; 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.

 

Round Three of March PPMs Released. The third of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s March 2022 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus. Nielsen’s March 2022 sweep covered March 3 – March 30. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In Portland, Alpha Media’s news/talk KXL-FM adds four-tenths for an 8.1 share (6+, weekly AQH share) finish and climbs to the #3 rank, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk KEX tacks on two-tenths for a 3.3 share good for the #13 rank. Radio One’s news/talk WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte leaps nine-tenths to finish the survey with a 4.2 share and rises to the #10 rank. iHeartMedia’s news/talk WOAI, San Antonio jumps from #7 to #3 after climbing 1.1 shares for a 6.2 share finish. In Salt Lake City, iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM/FM is #1 in the market after leaping 1.5 shares to wrap the month with a 9.9 share, while Bonneville’s crosstown news/talk KSL-AM/FM is up three-tenths, finishing the survey with a 6.3 share good for the #3 rank. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeways from this group of markets (as well as the first two rounds) here.

 

Triton Digital March 2022 U.S. Podcast Report Released. Data from Triton Digital’s March 2022 U.S. Podcast Report is released. The ranking of the 100 top podcasts – based on average weekly downloads – is of the pool of programs from participating podcast networks. In March, “NPR News Now” from NPR was the #1 podcast in the U.S. But Cumulus Media podcasts fare very well in the ranker, with several in the top 25 including “The Ben Shapiro Show” at #2, “The Dan Bongino Show” at #7, “The Mark Levin Podcast” at #19, “The Matt Walsh Show” at #21, and “The Michael Knowles Show” at #24. Salem Podcast Network’s “The Charlie Kirk Show” was up to #12 in March and Audacy Podcast Network’s “Pod Save America” ranked #11. You can see the complete ranker, as well as a rank of the top 20 U.S. podcast networks, here.

 

iHeartMedia and Seneca Women Partner for Search for the Next Great Female Podcasters. This new partnership between iHeartMedia and global women’s leadership platform Seneca Women will establish the “first-ever Seneca Women Podcast Academy, a program designed to help amplify the voices of women in podcasting. The inaugural class will consist of 10 winners from iHeartMedia’s nationwide initiative, ‘Seneca Women to Hear: The Search For the Next Great Female Podcasters,’ which set out to find the next breakout female podcast stars.” The Seneca Women Podcast Academy will help these winners develop and launch their own shows on the Seneca Women Podcast Network, distributed by iHeartMedia. The six-week intensive program will kick off in May and will include one lecture per week with direct access to industry-leading mentors, all women who are at the top of their respective fields in podcasting. Creators will also receive a stipend and top-of-the-line audio equipment to produce episodes of their shows, which will all become part of the Seneca Women Podcast Network. iHeartPodcast Network COO Will Pearson says, “iHeartMedia is proud to say that 50% of our new shows over the past 12 months are hosted by women. We want to continue that growth and we believe starting the Seneca Women Podcast Academy is an exciting next step toward changing the makeup of podcasting. These 10 shows will only bolster our platform and we’re thrilled to offer these creators the space and support to become the next generation of influential podcasters.”

 

Skyview Networks Promotes Jeanne-Marie Condo to President of Network Partnerships and CRO. Media executive Jeanne-Marie Condo is promoted to president of network partnerships and chief revenue officer for Skyview Networks. Skyview CEO and president Steve Jones comments, “Jeanne-Marie has been the architect of our sales strategy, carefully integrating business partners to create unrivaled value for our advertising clients while driving significant return for the audio brands we steward. This new title recognizes Jeanne-Marie’s leadership role in the company and across the industry wherein she has become respected for her commitment to our clients and early development and implementation of integrated sales and brand awareness for our advertisers.” Condo has been with the company since shortly after its inception by executive chairman of the board Ken Thiele.

 

TALKERS News Notes. Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that WGN-AM, Chicago morning drive host Bob Sirott will be one of the personalities on Marquee Sports Network’s new program “The Reporters” when it debuts on May 1. Marquee general manager Mike McCarthy says, “We’re excited to launch ‘The Reporters’ as part of our Sunday morning programming lineup, discussing the biggest sports stories with the writers and broadcasters closest to the action. We look forward to bringing additional coverage across the Chicago sports landscape to Marquee viewers.”…..Edison Research is presenting “Moms and Media 2022” in a webinar on Thursday, May 5 at 2:00 pm ET. The company says this year’s study provides insight on U.S. moms and their media usage, social media habits, and current outlook on tech. Findings incorporate data from The Infinite Dial study from Edison Research, Wondery, and ART19, as well as new data from a national online study of adults 18 and older. You can get registration information here…..The nationally syndicated weekend program “Talkin’ Pets” with host Jon Patch celebrates 32 years on the air this month. Patch says, “Each week you get a variety of veterinarians and trainers, not just me, which keeps our show current, fresh, exciting and always new.” The program also features news on animal welfare, wildlife, farming, and environmental issues that affect animals, as well as interviews with celebrities…..AdLarge signs an ad sales partnership deal with globally recognized financial icon Tori Dunlap on the re-launch of her “Financial Feminist” podcast. AdLarge says, “The first season of Financial Feminist podcast, which wrapped in Summer 2021, it was ranked #1 in business podcasts and is currently the only woman-founded, woman-hosted, and women-focused podcast in the Top 20.”

 

The U.S. Economy Top News/Talk Story for Week of April 18-22. The state of the U.S. economy including the high price of gasoline & food, the supply chain problems, the crash of Netflix stock, and concerns about a recession combined as the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. Tied at #2 this week was the Russia-Ukraine War, U.S. foreign policy, and the French presidential race between Emmanuel Macron and Marine Le Pen, followed by COVID-19 at #3. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top 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.

Ratings Takeaways

March 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Three

By Editor | by Editor

March 2022 PPM Data – Information for the March 2022 ratings period has been released for Portland; Charlotte; San Antonio; Sacramento; Pittsburgh; Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Orlando; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Kansas City; and Columbus.

Nielsen Audio’s 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+).

PORTLAND

News/Talk: Alpha Media’s KXL “FM 101 News” 7.7 – 8.1, +.4, fourth to third

iHeartMedia-owned KEX “News Radio 1190” 3.1 – 3.3, +.2, #14 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB flat at 8.9, first to second and KOPB’s internet stream 1.9 – 1.7, -.2, #19 to #20

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLTH, first month, 8.3 – 9.1, +.8

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies KLTH (+.8)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease (Tie): adult hits KYCH and classical KQAC (-.9)

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk: Radio One-owned WBT AM & WBT-FM “Charlotte’s News Talk” 3.3 – 4.2, +.9, #14 to #10

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Radio One’s WFNZ-FM “Sports Radio 92.7” 2.1 – 1.8, -.3, repeats at #16

Beasley Media Group-owned WSOC-HD3 “Fox Sports Charlotte” .4 – .5, +.1, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University Radio Foundation’s WFAE 4.6 – 4.2, -.4, eighth to tenth

South Carolina Educational Television Commission-owned WNSC .5 – .8, +.3, #19 to #18

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WKQC, second consecutive month, 6.3 – 6.6, +.3

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): news/talk WBT AM & WBT-FM and alternative WEND (+.9)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: CHR WHQC (-1.3)

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WOAI “News Radio 1200” (Spurs) 5.1 – 6.2, +1.1, seventh to third

Alpha Media-owned KTSA “Stay Connected” 2.4 – 2.2, -.2, continues at #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Texas Public Radio’s KSTX 3.3 – 2.5, -.8, #12 to #13

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM, second straight month, 7.1 – 8.4, +1.3

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase:  classic hits-oldies KONO-FM (+1.3)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease (Tie): CHR KXXM and rhythmic hot AC KVBH (-.9)

SACRAMENTO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM “News 1530 AM & 93.1 FM” flat at 6.5, anchored in third-place and cluster-mate KSTE “Talk 650” 3.3 – 2.8, -.5, #12 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KIFM-AM “ESPN 1320” .9 – 1.1, +.2, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Capital Public Radio-owned KXJZ 4.6 – 4.2, -.4, sixth to eighth

Number One 6+: Audacy classic rock KSEG, third month in a row, 10.2 – 11.3, +1.1

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase:  classic rock KSEG (+1.1)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KBEB (-1.1)

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk: Audacy’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020 AM” 4.8 – 3.9, -.9, seventh to ninth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan All Sports All The Time” 7.5 – 7.6, +.1, repeats in fourth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting’s WESA 2.8 – 2.4, -.4, #11 to #12

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW, fifth month in succession, 10.8 – 11.4, +.6

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase:  country WPGB (+.7)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease:  adult hits WRRK (-1.3)

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM “Talk Radio” 8.4 – 9.9, +1.5, #1

Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” 6.0 – 6.3, +.3, fourth to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Utah’s KUER 4.1 – 4.6, +.5, tenth to sixth

Number One 6+: news/talk KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM second month in succession, 8.4 – 9.9, +1.5

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase:  news/talk KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM (+1.5)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classic rock KAAZ (-1.4)

LAS VEGAS

News/Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned KDWN “The Talk Of Las Vegas” 2.2 – 2.0, -.2, #15 to #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR 2.2 – 2.3, +.1, repeats at #15

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic hits-oldies KKLZ, first month, 6.8 – 7.1, +.3

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): Spanish contemporary KRGT and similarly-formatted KXLI (+.5)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: hot AC KVGS (-1.2)

ORLANDO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKS “Real Radio 104.1” 6.3 – 5.9, -.4, fourth to sixth

Cox Media Group-owned WDBO “Orlando’s News Talk” 1.6 – 2.1, +.5, #17 to #16

iHeartMedia-owned WFLF “Orlando News Radio” 1.8 – 1.4, -.4, #16 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WYGM “96.9 The Game” (Magic) 1.5 – 1.1, -.4, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Community Connections-owned WMFE flat at 2.4, #15 to #13

Number One 6+ (Tie): iHeartMedia CHR WXXL, third straight month, 7.9 – 8.3, +.4 and co-owned adult contemporary WMGF, first month, 6.1 – 8.3, +2.2

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WMGF (+2.2)*

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: urban AC WCFB (-.8)

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

CINCINNATI

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WLW “700 Cincinnati’s News Radio” 12.3 – 12.2, -.1, second to first and cluster-mate WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” 5.3 – 5.1, -.2, fourth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WCKY “ESPN 1530” 1.1 – .8, -.3, repeats at #19

iHeartMedia-owned WSAI “Fox Sports AM 1360” .6 – .8, +.2, #22 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Cincinnati Public Radio’s WVXU 5.1 – 5.4, +.3, fifth to fourth

Number One 6+: news/talk WLW, first month, 12.3 – 12.2, -.1

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: hot AC WKRQ (+1.0)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WGRR (-1.5)**

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

CLEVELAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTAM “News Radio 1100” (Cavaliers) 5.5 – 4.9, -.6, sixth to eighth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” 4.2 – 4.3, +.1, #11 to #9 and WKRK’s internet stream 1.0 – 1.9, +.9, #17 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Ideastream’s WCPN 4.4 – 3.2, -1.2, #9 to #12

Kent State University-owned WKSU 1.5 – 2.2, +.7, #15 to #14

Number One 6+: Radio One urban AC WZAK, third month in a row, 11.1 – 10.4, -.7

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): classic hits-oldies WMJI and sports talk WKRK’s internet stream (+.9)

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

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMBZ-FM “98.1 FM News, Traffic, Weather” 7.8 – 7.3, -.5, first to second

Cumulus Media-owned KCMO-AM “Talk Radio 710 AM” .9 – 1.6, +.7, remains at #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KCSP “Sports Radio 610 Our Teams, Our Town” 1.5 – 2.3, +.8, #18 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KCUR 6.5 – 5.7, -.8, continues in fourth-place

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic rock KCFX, first month, 7.6 – 8.7, +1.1

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: classic rock KCFX (+1.1)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease (Tie): public radio news/talk KCUR; urban contemporary KPRS; and country WDAF (-.8)

COLUMBUS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WTVN “News Radio 610” 9.3 – 8.7, -.6, #1

News: iHeartMedia’s WYTS “Columbus’ BIN 1230” .3 – .2, -.1, #20 to #19

Sports Talk: Tegna-owned WBNS-FM “97.1 FM The Fan” (Blue Jackets) 8.8 – 8.6, -.2, remains in second-place and co-owned WBNS-AM “ESPN 1460 AM”.6 – .5, -.1, #17 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Ohio State University’s WOSU 8.3 – 8.5, +.2, repeats at #3

Number One 6+: news/talk WTVN, second straight month, 9.3 – 8.7, -.6

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase:  adult hits WODC (+1.5)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: CHR WNCI (-.9)

Up next: March 2022 overviews for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.

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

Front Page News Industry News

Thursday, April 21, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Bill O’ Reilly is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. Multi-platform news/talk media star and best-selling author Bill O’ Reilly is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” O’ Reilly’s 40-plus year career has been colorful, controversial, and continues to be consequential. After gaining prominence as an anchor for the mainstream TV networks ABC and CBS, he served as host of the groundbreaking celebrity gossip entertainment-industry show, “Inside Edition,” and then evolved into politics going on to be the top-rated host at FOX News Channel for approximately two decades. Today, his short-form commentaries, syndicated by Key Networks, are heard on hundreds of news/talk radio stations across the nation and he’s currently in the process of launching a new nightly, long-form syndicated program titled, “No Spin News.” Harrison and O’ Reilly discuss the state and future of modern era news/talk media in addition to looking back at what it was like for the independent-minded talker to co-host and partner with former President Donald Trump on his recent four-city “History Tour.” Be sure to meet Bill O’ Reilly at the forthcoming Talkers 2022 conference at Hofstra University on Friday, June 10. To listen to the entire podcast, please click here.

 

Sean Hannity Becomes Longest-Running Primetime Cable News Host. According to FOX News Channel, primetime superstar Sean Hannity notches another industry milestone as he tops the late Larry King to assume the mantle of the longest-running primetime cable news host in U.S. television history. Today (4/21), marks 25 consecutive years, six months, and 15 days at the helm of a primetime cable news program – beating King’s run on CNN. Hannity has been a staple of FNC’s primetime lineup since the launch of the network in 1996. He was co-host of “Hannity & Colmes (with the late Alan Colmes) that debuted on October 7, 1996. FOX News Media CEO Suzanne Scott says, “Sean’s authenticity and insightful commentary have created one of the most enduring connections with our audience and it’s been an honor to watch him over the years. A FOX News original, he has helped innovate the industry, and we are incredibly proud of his extraordinary success.” Hannity comments, “I am extremely grateful to FOX News Media and to our loyal, dedicated viewers whom I am proud to serve every night.”

 

WHAM/WSYR Talk Host Bob Lonsberry Pens Blog Post About Personal Mental Health. Longtime WHAM, Rochester and WSYR, Syracuse talk host Bob Lonsberry’s April 20 post to his blog reveals a man searching for help to deal with mental health issues he confesses have plagued him his entire life. The blog doesn’t go into specific detail about his own struggles but does document to some degree his family history of mental illness, especially that which tormented his mother for most of her life. He begins the post saying, “This column is not intended to elicit sympathy or be seen as courageous. Not by any means. It is rather a report on the final desperate action of a man who has destroyed the lives of his family, hurt countless other individuals, failed at his religion, and probably devolved from narcissist to sociopath. This isn’t pretty or sweet, but neither is it manipulative or attention seeking. It’s just a column. Please, leave me the delusion that I’m a writer. And if me being nuts makes you more comfortable asking if you might be nuts, too, and maybe need some help, too, then good. That’s the point.” Read the blog post here.

 

Round Two of March PPMs Released. The second of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s March 2022 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen’s March 2022 sweep covered March 3 – March 30. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In Washington, Hubbard Radio’s all-news WTOP-FM jumps 1.4 shares for an 8.7 share (6+, weekly AQH share) finish and climbs to the #2 rank, while Cumulus Media’s crosstown news/talk WMAL-FM slips two-tenths for a 3.9 share finish good for the #10 rank. iHeartMedia’s news/talk WRKO, Boston continues its ascent, tacking on 1.1 shares to wrap the survey with a 4.7 share and the #8 rank, while sister all-news WBZ-FM slides seven-tenths to a 5.5 share and the #6 rank. In Seattle, Bonneville’s news/talk KIRO-FM remains on top posting a 7.4 share to stay ranked #1. The talk in St. Louis is dominated by Audacy as heritage news/talk KMOX finishes with a 3.6 share, after shedding two-tenths, and remains ranked #11, while sister talker KFTK-FM drops eight-tenths for a 2.6 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.

 

Meghan Ottolini Joins WEEI-FM, Boston’s ‘Merloni & Fauria’ Show. Boston sports media personality Meghan Ottolini is getting an expanded role on sports talk WEEI-FM’s “Merloni & Fauria” afternoon drive program, effective May 4. She’s been serving as a part-time host on the show since January of 2021. Audacy Boston SVP and market manager Mike Thomas says, “Meghan is a rising star in this industry, and we are very excited to have her join ‘Merloni & Fauria’ each afternoon. Writing is a passion of Meghan’s and she will be able to continue to do that for our station’s website, enabling her to create can’t-miss content for Boston sports fans – both on air and online.” Ottolini most recently served as a multimedia reporter for the Boston Herald since 2017. Additionally, she was an on-air talent for NBC Sports Boston’s “Quick Slants” television program. She comments, “I’m thrilled to join WEEI and work alongside Lou [Merloni] and Christian [Fauria] delivering premier sports talk coverage in the best sports city in the country. This opportunity is such a privilege and I look forward to having a lot of fun in this next chapter of my career.”

 

The TALKERS magazine 2022 Heavy Hundred of Talk Radio Hosts is Published. The 2022 edition of TALKERS magazine’s annual list of the 100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America – also known as the Heavy Hundred – has been published. Since the early 1990s, TALKERS editors – with input from industry leaders – have compiled this annual feature created to recognize the hard-working talk radio personalities in America. TALKERS executive editor Kevin Casey says of this 2022 edition, “Creating the Heavy Hundred is always a challenging task for our editorial staff. Our use of both hard and soft factors in evaluating candidates for the list only adds to the difficulty in selecting the “most important” radio talk show hosts, but it’s a project that allows us to really get a big-picture look at the key players in this format and it’s something that we take very seriously. Congratulations to all of the talk radio personalities who are recognized on this year’s Heavy Hundred!” See the list here.

 

FOX News Digital Top Performer in Multiplatform Minutes for March. According to the Comscore data for the month of March, FOX News Digital finished as the top-performing news brand in the competitive set in multiplatform minutes. FOX News Digital says this marks its fourth consecutive quarter ranking as number one in the category in the news competitive set. FOX News Digital delivered 3.5 billion total multiplatform minutes, topping closest rival CNN.com (3.35 billion). For the first quarter of 2022 (Jan.-Mar.), FOX News Digital delivered 9.2 billion total multiplatform minutes versus CNN.com’s 7.85 billion. However, In the multiplatform unique visitors metric, CNN.com was far and away on top with 136.3 million compared to FOX News Digital’s 79.2 million for March. For the first quarter, CNN.com’s multiplatform unique visitors total was 147.9 million to FOX News Digital’s 85.3 million.

 

Radio Pros Launch New Consulting Firm. The new firm is called the Smith Richards Collective and is being launched by radio executives Steve Smith and Tim Richards and digital marketing strategist Heidi McIvor-Allen. The organization says it “brings deep radio operations, programming, and digital marketing experience to radio stations and groups, with a fresh approach and innovative strategies to help stations grow their audience and revenues, while saving money.” It adds that in addition to podcast and radio talent coaching services, the Smith Richards Collective offers full-service white glove consulting for radio stations and groups, as well as an embedded full-service digital marketing agency, McIvor Marketing, which offers stations and groups a full spectrum of digital resources and support.

 

Salem New York’s ‘The Answer’ to Produce ‘The Salem Business Breakfast.’ Next Wednesday (4/27) Salem Media Group’s news/talk WNYM-AM, New York “AM 970 The Answer” is presenting “The Salem Business Breakfast” at Bergen Community College in Paramus, New Jersey. It takes place from 6:00 am to 10:00 am as Joe Piscopo broadcasts the morning show live. An interactive business panel discussion will be moderated by attorney and AM 970 The Answer personality Arthur Aidala that will include: Bernie Kerik, former NYPD Police Commissioner; Steve Perillo, president & owner of Perillo Tours; Ace Watanasuparp, national director of strategic sales at Citizens Bank Home Mortgage Division & founder of Chase Restaurant Group; Jason Greene, vice president of Magniflood INC; and Melanie Landano, founder & owner of Mel’s Butcher Box.

 

TALKERS News Notes. New York City Audacy radio stations are airing the podcast episodes hosted by WCBS-FM personality Patty Steele for which she won a 2022 Gracie Award in the category National Podcast – Lifestyle Limited Series. The program is titled “The Deep 6” and the episodes that will be aired on April 24 at 6:00 am consist of her interview with her 26-year-old son Jake about his heroin addiction and his journey to recovery. Steele, a mother of three,  reveals her struggle through the ordeal that simultaneously occurred with her breast cancer diagnosis. With five years of sobriety under his belt, Jake and his mom decided it was time to make their story public with the hope of helping others. Steele comments, “It’s important that we take the stigma away from addiction issues and talk openly about what is truly affecting our children. I’m so grateful that Jake and I are in such a good place that we’re able to share our journey.” WINS director of news and programming Ben Mevorach states, “Patty’s conversation with her son is heartbreaking, inspiring, life-affirming, and compelling. It is one of the most important podcasts to come along in a very long time. What makes it so powerful is its authenticity. You can feel the pain and unrelenting love for her son on this very personal journey. Patty is brave beyond words to share and explore all that has happened and because her story could be any parent’s story, every parent will find a part of themselves in it.”…..Pictured at left is Salem Radio Network talk radio host Mike Gallager(left) with 16-time WWE World Champion wrestler Ric “The Nature Boy” Flair (right). Gallagher bumped into Flair while taking his first “maskless” flight since the pandemic began in 2020…..Audacy is conducting 45 volunteer events nationwide to celebrate Earth Day as part of its 1Day1Thing Sustainability Initiative. The series of events, which will engage employees across the company, aim to make a positive impact on the communities in which the company serves and the planet. Projects including tree planting, park and waterway cleanups, recycling projects and habitat restoration, among others. Audacy director of sustainability Jaimie Field says, “We pride ourselves on our relentless commitment to supporting the health and success of the communities that are at the heart of our business, and we’re thrilled to unite our teams across the country to do some good for our planet. Sustainability is a focal point of our Audacy Serves initiative, and we’re looking forward to leveraging these actions this Earth Day to make a lasting impact on our environment, both today and for generations to come.”…..Good Karma Brands president Steve Politziner has been inducted into the 45th class of the Palm Beach County Sports Hall of Fame. Each year, the Palm Beach County Sports Commission recognizes an elite group of individuals who have made major impacts to the Palm Beach County sports landscape. By bringing ESPN to the market through the power of radio, TV and events, he helped shape Palm Beach County’s sports identity, created a home for sports fans and has provided coverage to the great sports stories, teams and athletes that make up the community.

 

Russia-Ukraine War, Netflix Crash/Financial Markets/Inflation, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, DeSantis vs Disney, College Debt Forgiveness, COVID-19, Macron-Le Pen Race, and Arizona Wildfire Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/20). Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and its ICBM test and threat of nuclear weapons use; the crash of Netflix’s stock, its effect on the financial markets and the broader issue of high gas and food prices; the battle for control of Congress in the November midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; Florida Governor Ron DeSantis pushes legislation to strip Disney of its decades-old special district benefit; the Biden administration’s move to provide 50,000 students with college debt forgiveness; the ruling that cancels the air travel mask mandate and the BA.2 variant; the tight race between Emmanuel Macron and Marine Le Pen for president of France; and the raging Arizona wildfire 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, April 20, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Drew Anderssen Jumps to Audacy’s KRLD-AM, Dallas. After a long career with Cox Media Group in Tulsa, Orlando and, most recently, at news/talk giant WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta, news/talk programming pro Drew Anderssen joins Audacy as brand manager of KRLD-AM, Dallas “Newsradio 1080” and the Texas State Networks. In this role, Anderssen will oversee content strategy, talent, operations and branding for the station and networks. Audacy regional president and market manager Brian Purdy says, “We’re delighted to bring Drew aboard to lead KRLD and TSN. For over two decades, Drew has proven to be a winning brand leader across multiple formats, which we trust will serve him well as he takes the reins of DFW’s news and information brand.” Anderssen comments, “I’m thrilled to join Audacy and work with the phenomenal team at KRLD and the Texas State Networks. This was a tremendous opportunity to return to the city where I grew up and fell in love with radio, and work with such a prestigious brand and decorated team.  I’m grateful to Susan Larkin, Jeff Sottolano, Brian Purdy and Gavin Spittle and I can’t wait to hit the ground running in the Lone Star State.”

 

Round One of March PPMs Released. The first of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s March 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 March 2022 sweep covered March 3 – March 30. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In New York, Audacy’s all-news WINS tacks on one-tenths for a 4.1 share (6+, weekly AQH share) finish to remain ranked #7. Red Apple Media’s crosstown news/talk WABC/WLIR-FM adds nine-tenths to finish with a 3.8 share good for the #8 rank. iHeartMedia’s Los Angeles news/talk KFI is up seven-tenths for a 4.7 share finish that boosts it to the #5 rank while Audacy’s crosstown all-news KNX-FM rises six-tenths to wrap the survey with a 3.9 share and the #7 rank. In Atlanta, Cox Media Group’s news/talk WSB-AM/WSBB-FM dips by half a share for a 6.9 share finish and falls from #2 to #3. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this round of markets here.

 

Ramsey Press Publishes Dr. Jon Delony’s New Book. Titled, Own Your Past, Change Your Future, the latest book from Ramsey Solutions’ Dr. Jon Delony “reminds readers there’s a better, healthier way to live.” Ramsey Press says, “Normalizing stress has left us more disconnected than ever. In fact, Americans have gotten so used to loneliness that 82% of people said they don’t even feel close to or known by the friends they spend the most time with. What we’ve failed to realize is loneliness and chronic stress debilitate our physical and mental health. Dr. John Delony reminds readers they are worth being well, meeting them in the trenches of their anxiety and loneliness with easy-to-understand concepts that ultimately lead to healing.” Dr. Delony adds, “We’re living life like every second is the Super Bowl, and we’re doing it all by ourselves. Humans were not designed to shoulder immense pressure alone. Enough is enough. We’ve got to get back to basics and connect with others in ways that are deep and meaningful.”

 

George Plaster to Leave WNSR for Main Street Media. According to a report in the Tennessean, sports media personality George Plaster is leaving Southern Wabash Communications’ sports talk outlet WNSR “Nashville Sports Radio” to launch a streaming program via Main Street Media. When the streaming platform debuts this summer, Plaster’s show will stream from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm daily. Main Street Media founder Dave Gould says, “We couldn’t be more excited about having George join Main Street Media. George is a Nashville sports icon, and we believe our audience will really enjoy listening to him and the shows we have planned.” The report indicates that Plaster’s co-host and former Vanderbilt University football coach Watson Brown will join him in the move. Plaster says, “I’m excited about the opportunity to join Watson Brown in this new venture. I am really impressed with Main Street Media; it’s an incredible media story. I also want to say a big thank you to Ted Johnson and the WNSR staff for a really fun sports talk experience. I can’t wait to get started at Main Street Media.”

 

‘Sounds of Sinatra’ Host Sid Mark Passes at 88. The man who hosted the nationally syndicated Frank Sinatra radio show based at Audacy’s WPHT, Philadelphia for the past 22 years has died. Sid Mark died at age 88 on Monday (4/18). Sid Mark’s “Sounds of Sinatra” was syndicated for 43 years and was carried by radio stations airing different formats, including full-service AM outlets and news/talk stations. Audacy Philadelphia SVP and market manager David Yadgaroff says, “He presented the music of Frank Sinatra from the standpoint of a friend as well as a fan. As the host of the longest running, single artist, syndicated radio program in America, Sid was the leading authority on Frank Sinatra and his entertainment legacy. His personal relationship with Sinatra began in the mid 1960s and allowed Sid to offer more than just the remarkable music but insights into Sinatra’s career with personal anecdotes and stories behind the timeless music.”

 

Russia-Ukraine War, Travel Mask Mandate/COVID-19, Biden Approval Ratings/Midterm Elections, the Economy/Inflation, January 6-Ginni Thomas Controversy, School Curriculum Battles, and Musk vs. Twitter Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/19). Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, NATO’s reaction, and the economic impact of the war; a judge rules the air travel mask mandate is illegal, the concerns about the BA.2 variant, and the brutal lockdowns in Shanghai and Hong Kong; President Joe Biden’s low approval ratings and the battle for control of Congress in the November midterm elections; the state of the U.S. economy and high gas & food prices; the controversy over Ginni Thomas’ purported role in the January 6 Capitol attack; the Florida-led fight over sex-gender issues and critical race theory in public school curricula; and Elon Musk’s attempt to acquire Twitter and take it private 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 One

By Editor | by Editor

March 2022 PPM Data – Information for the March 2022 ratings period has been released for New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; San Francisco; Dallas; Houston; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario; San Jose; and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.

Nielsen Audio’s 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+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 2.9 – 3.8, +.9, #13 to #8

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.9 – 2.6, -.3, #13 to #16

News: Audacy’s WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 4.0 – 4.1, +.1, repeats in seventh-place and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 2.6 – 2.4, -.2, #16 to #18

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 2.6 – 3.1, +.5, #16 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.6 – 3.4, -.2, eighth to tenth

Number One 6+: Emmis urban AC WBLS, third consecutive month, 5.9 – 6.5, +.6

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: news/talk WABC (+.9)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classical WQXR (-.5)

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.0 – 4.7, +.7, seventh to fifth

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 3.3 – 3.9, +.6, #11 to #7

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.5 – 2.4, -.1, #14 to #16

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, ninth successive month, 5.8 – 5.5, -.3

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: news/talk KFI (+.7)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: Spanish adult hits KRCD (-.7)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” (Blackhawks) 4.6 – 3.5, -1.1, fifth to seventh

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 5.1 – 5.5, +.4, third to second

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 5.7 – 5.4, -.3, first to third

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WVAZ, third consecutive month, 5.7 – 5.8, +.1

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): triple A WXRT and classical WFMT (+.7)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: news/talk WGN (-1.1)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.9 – 2.4, +.5, #18 to #14

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 7.3 – 7.0, -.3, continues in second-place

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” 2.2 – 2.1, -.1, repeats at #15

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.’s KQED 7.9 – 9.0, +1.1, first

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KQED, third straight month, 7.9 – 9.0, +1.1

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): public radio news/talk KQED and country KRTY (+1.1)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KOIT-FM (-.8)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 2.9 – 3.2, +.3, #14 to #12

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” 2.5 – 2.7, +.2, #18 to #15

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) 3.4 – 3.5, +.1, #11 to #10

Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” 1.6 – 2.2, +.6, #23 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 3.6 – 3.8, +.2, steady in ninth-place

Number One 6+: Univision regional Mexican KLNO, second month in a row, 7.2 – 6.8, -.4

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: adult hits KJKK (+1.1)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: regional Mexican KZZA (-.7)

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” 4.8 – 4.3, -.5, flat at #7

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston-owned KUHF 2.8 – 2.7, -.1, repeats at #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, twelfth consecutive month, 8.1 – 7.5, -.6

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

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

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 7.4 – 6.9, -.5, second to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks) 1.6 – 2.0, +.4, #18 to #17

Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” 1.5 – 1.7, +.2, #20 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 3.1 – 3.5, +.4, #13 to #8

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, third successive month, 8.8 – 8.1, -.7

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: urban AC WALR (+.8)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: contemporary Christian WFSH (-1.2)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 1.4 – 1.3, -.1, #19 to #20

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 4.9 – 4.7, -.2, sixth to seventh

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” 3.7 – 3.9, +.2, locked in ninth-place

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers and Flyers) 3.6 – 2.5, -1.1, #10 to #13

WIP’s internet stream, 2.0 – 1.9, -.1, #15 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 6.1 – 6.9, +.8, fourth to third

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM, second successive month, 8.0 – 8.2, +.2

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: urban contemporary WUSL (+1.2)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: Spanish contemporary WUMR (-1.7)

Note: Eight days into the March 2022 sweep (3/11), adult contemporary WISX became Spanish contemporary WUMR.

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 4.1 – 3.7, -.4, sixth to seventh

Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 1.9 – 2.7, +.8, #18 to #13

News: Audacy’s WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 2.8 – 3.0, +.2, #12 to #11 and cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 2.5 – 2.7, +.2, #14 to #13

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 2.4 – 2.6, +.2, #16 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic rock WAXQ, first month, 6.1 – 6.8, +.7

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: news/talk WABC-AM & WLIR-FM (+.8)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (-1.3)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, flat at .4, #20 to #19

Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC .3 – .2, -.1, #21 to #20

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, third consecutive month, 9.5 – 7.5, -2.0

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: rock KCAL-FM (+.9)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KOLA (-2.0)*

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

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.3 – 1.8, +.5, #22 to #13 and cluster-mate KGO “810 AM” 1.8 – 1.7, -.1, repeats at #14

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 5.0 – 4.4, -.6, fifth to fourth

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Empire country KRTY second straight month 7.5 – 10.9, +3.4

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase: country KRTY (+3.4)**

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease (Tie): Spanish adult hits KBRG and classic rock KUFX (-1.0)

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

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.3 – 6.8, +.5, first

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 2.1 – 1.6, -.5, #14 to #18 and cluster-mate WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 1.3 – 1.2, -.1, repeats at #20

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 2.5 – 3.0, +.5, #13 to #9

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: news/talk WKXW, second month in succession, 6.3 – 6.8, +.5

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Increase (Tie): news/talk WKXW; classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM; contemporary Christian WAWZ; sports talk WFAN; and the internet stream of Spanish tropical WSKQ (+.5)

Largest 6+ February 2022 – March 2022 Decrease: CHR WHTZ (-1.1)

Up next: March 2022 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

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

Features

Life-Changing Event in the Flesh

By Editor | by Editor

By Mike Kinosian
TALKERS magazine
Managing Editor

 

COOKEVILLE, Ten. — Positive outcomes haven’t exactly been the norm for several radio talk show hosts who’ve been hospitalized in the COVID-era.

Spoiler Alert: Don’t read any further unless you want to see how a popular Cookeville, Tennessee personality fashioned a warm & fuzzy post-hospital story and is now enjoying a new lease on life.

On its own, this is the type of feel-good scenario all of us can applaud; the element further enhancing it regards the part the medium itself played.

Those adhering to the English proverb, “Good things come to those who wait,” will undoubtedly nod in approval for what appears below.

(more…)

Front Page News Industry News

Wednesday, April 13, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Cindy Rollison to Lead Cumulus Tri-Cities, Tennessee. Sales and management pro Cindy Rollison returns to Cumulus Media to serve as vice president and market manager for the Tri-Cities, Tennessee station group that includes news/talk WJCW-AM and sports talk WXSM-AM plus two music brands. Rollison takes over for Debbie Caso, who is retiring after 43 years in the market. Rollison served as VP and market manager for Cumulus’ former station group in Blacksburg, Virginia from 2007-2018. She’s been serving as regional marketing consultant for Mel Wheeler, Inc. Radio and Digital Advertising since 2019. Cumulus regional VP Mark Sullivan says, “I’m thankful to Debbie Caso for making such a valuable contribution to the community and company for so many years and wish her much happiness in her retirement. At the same time, I’m very pleased that we have someone of Cindy Rollison’s caliber and experience joining our team. I’m excited to have the opportunity to work alongside Cindy again, after many successful years working together with our cluster in Blacksburg. I’m looking forward to many successes together.”

 

Justin Schaflander Named Director of Sales for ‘ESPN LA.’ Radio sales pro Justin Schaflander is named director of sales for Good Karma Brands’ sports talk KSPN, Los Angeles “ESPN LA 710 AM.”  He was most recently a region president with iHeartMedia. In the early 2000s, Schaflander was a director of sports for CBS, running the Dodgers Radio Network. He says, “I’m thrilled to join ESPN LA and Good Karma Brands. To return to LA, work with some of the most iconic brands in sports and have it wrapped up in Good Karma Brands’ culture makes this a bucket list experience! I would like to thank the team for making this process and transition seamless and fun, and I can’t wait to start learning and working with this special group of teammates.” Good Karma Brands acquired “ESPN LA 710 AM” and “ESPN 1050 AM in New York” earlier this year. The company also took over the agreement to perform ESPN’s obligations under the Local Marketing Agreement for WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN” in New York.

 

Kidney Transplant a Life-Changing Event for WHUB, Cookeville’s Brent Carl Fleshman. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian writes today about Cookeville, Tennessee talk radio host Brent Carl Fleshman who recently underwent a lifesaving – and life-changing – kidney transplant. Fleshman serves with Zimmer Broadcasting’s Cookeville station group where he hosts the morning drive show on news/talk WHUB “News Talk 107.7 and 1400 The Hub” and serves as program director, among other duties. In May of 2014, Dr. Barbara Fleming was doing a segment on Fleshman’s program when she noticed something about Fleshman that concerned her. She prompted him to seek treatment at Nashville’s Vanderbilt University and he got into the hospital’s kidney transplant program. Fleshman says, “I’ve been given a second chance with this kidney and am grateful to the man who signed that donor card [making it possible for me to] continue doing what I love every day. I intend to make the most of it. I look forward to getting back on the air soon and have asked Dr. Fleming to be on my first show. If [the host of WHUB’s 30-minute Saturday health program, ‘Your Best Health Connection’] hadn’t noticed my symptoms eight years ago and gone to Vanderbilt with me, I would never have seen this day. Radio saved my life.” Read his story here.

 

Gordon Smith Joins Beasley Board of Directors. Former NAB president and CEO Gordon H. Smith is nominated by the Beasley Media Group board of directors to be added to the slate of directors to be presented at the annual shareholders meeting on May 25. The official unanimous vote took place during the company’s board of director’s meeting on March 31, 2022. Smith, who served two terms as a Republican U.S. Senator representing Oregon, led the NAB from 2009 through 2021. Beasley board chair and CEO Caroline Beasley says, “It is such an honor and a privilege to welcome Gordon to the Beasley Media Group board of directors. His outstanding leadership, dedication and service to broadcasters and our nation is unparalleled. His understanding of Washington and how to navigate the halls of power will serve our board well for years to come. I look forward to working closely with Gordon and our board as we continue to evolve our company forward.”

 

47th Annual Gracie Award Winners Announced. The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation announces the winners of the 47th Annual Gracie Awards which will return in-person on May 24 at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles with local and student awards given on June 22 at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York. AWMF says the event will honor some of the most talented women in television, radio and digital media. AWMF chair Heather Cohen says, “Throughout this past year we have seen a number of remarkable projects by and about inspirational women.” AWMF president Becky Brooks adds, “We are honored to shine a spotlight on these women, whose stories have driven cultural awareness, offered entertainment that has made us laugh, cry, and everything in between. This year, we will be returning to the Beverly Wilshire Hotel and are delighted to return to an in-person format so that we can properly celebrate together.” Some of the national radio honorees include Allison Keyes, CBS News Weekend Roundup; Cheri Preston, ABC News Radio; Jen Horn, Victoria Keelan, and Jai Kershner, “The DJV Show”; Heather Hunter, WMAL-FM, Washington’s “O’Connor and Company”; Jeana Gondek, WOKV-FM, Jacksonville, “Jacksonville’s Morning News”; Judi Franco, WKXW, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5”; Lori Barghini and Julia Cobbs, KTMY-FM, Minneapolis “The Lori & Julia Show”; MalaniKai WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta, “Word on the Street”; and Rita Cosby, WABC, New York. See the complete list of honorees here. Pictured above at the most recent in-person ceremony (2019) are (from l-r): country artist Kelsey Ballerini, Heather Cohen, and Becky Brooks.

 

Comrex to Unveil Gagl Remote Contribution Solution at NAB Show. The newest remote contribution solution from Comrex will be showcased at the NAB Show in Las Vegas April 23-27.  Dubbed Gagl, this new cloud service delivers conferenced audio from multiple contributors in high-quality. Gagl allows between one and five users to send and receive audio from computers and smartphones. Participants can connect and send audio by simply clicking a link using any common web browser. Their audio is conferenced (if there’s more than one user) and delivered to a Comrex hardware codec such as an ACCESS or BRIC-Link. All participants can hear other participants, and the codec can send audio back to them. Comrex says Gagl could be used as the hub for a round-robin reporting program or for a large-cast radio show to support multiple simultaneous connections at once. Because it offers low latency, it’s appropriate for call-in talk radio. Gagl could also be used to allow a single contributor to connect back to the studio from a computer or smartphone. Designed with audio quality in mind, Gagl provides stable connections with limited bandwidth. Gagl uses the Opus audio encoder, with a bit rate that delivers both voice and music in excellent quality. Gagl also delivers audio directly to a Comrex codec with all the stability enhancements, pro-grade audio connections, and features that hardware codecs provide. With a simple user interface, Gagl is easy for users with any level of technical expertise to use. Gagl works with Comrex hardware IP audio codecs including the AES67-compatible ACCESS NX Rack IP audio codec and ACCESS MultiRack multi-channel IP audio codec as well as the BRIC-Link series – a sneak peak of the next addition to the BRIC-Link codec line will also be featured at the 2022 NAB Show. LiveShot (a bonded IP solution for live video) and other IP audio solutions for IFB and POTS and /ISDN replacement can be found at the Comrex booth C3024 in Central Hall along with a “behind the curtain” look at some new concept products.

 

Russia-Ukraine War, Hunter Biden/Rudy Giuliani Investigations, Inflation/Recession Fears, Brooklyn Shooter Search, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, COVID-19, Severe Southern Weather, and Gilbert Gottfried Dies Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/12). Russia’s continuing invasion of Ukraine and President Joe Biden’s use of the term “genocide”; the investigation into Hunter Biden’s international business ventures and the investigation into Rudy Giuliani’s potential violation of foreign lobbying laws; high gas and consumer goods prices in the U.S. and fears the inflation will cause a recession; the search for the man who opened fire in a Brooklyn subway injuring 26 people; the battle for control of Congress in November’s midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the reinstating of mask requirements in some places in the U.S. as the BA.2 variant dominates and the brutal lockdowns taking place in China; the severe weather affecting the Southern U.S.; and the death of comic Gilbert Gottfried were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERSmagazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Friday, March 25, 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, “Midnight in Moscow,” looks back at this past week of 3/21 to 3/25. The program features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS; Jennifer Horn, talk show host, KRLA (AM 860 The Answer), Los Angeles; Martha Zoller, talk show host, WDUN, Gainesville, GA; Victoria Jones, executive director, DC Radio Company; and Ivan Pentchoukov, national editor, The Epoch Times. 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; KQSP, Minneapolis; 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.

 

Townsquare Media to Acquire Cherry Creek Broadcasting for $18.75 Million. This deal for Townsquare Media, Inc. to acquire Cherry Creek Broadcasting LLC for $18.75 million will add assets including 35 radio stations in nine markets to Townsquare’s portfolio, which will include 356 stations in 74 markets when the deal is closed sometime in the third quarter of this year. To accomplish the transaction, and due to FCC ownership regulations, Townsquare will divest six radio stations in Missoula, Montana, to Anderson Broadcasting, Legacy Broadcasting (a non-profit organization), and Missoula Community Radio (also a non-profit organization), and place two radio stations in Tri-Cities, Washington in a divestiture trust. Townsquare says this transaction solidifies its position as the only local media and digital marketing solutions company of scale focused principally on markets outside of the top 50 in the United States, a vital differentiator for the company. Company CEO Bill Wilson comments, “We are very excited to announce the acquisition of Cherry Creek’s market leading local media brands. The acquisition includes many local heritage brands with strong competitive positions, meaningful audience share, and very talented local teams. This represents an excellent opportunity to deploy our Digital First Local Media strategy across a broader footprint, bringing our national scale, strong digital platform, and resources to the local communities and local businesses in these markets, building upon the strong relationships these local teams have already built with their communities. We look forward to accelerating the digital growth in these markets as we implement our flywheel of powerful and effective marketing and advertising (digital and radio) solutions and technology platforms, in combination with our highly relevant, localized content on air and online. We believe this acquisition furthers our goal of being the #1 Digital First Local Media Company in markets outside of the top 50 in the United States.” This transaction is being funded with cash on hand and Townsquare CFO Stuart Rosenstein states, “This acquisition represents a compelling use of capital that aligns with our priorities of investing in our local business through both organic investments and prudent acquisitions that support our revenue and profit growth. This acquisition is net leverage neutral and due to the strong cash generation of our business and the acquired assets, will not impact our ability to reach our goal of 4x net leverage by year end.” The Cherry Creek LLC stations in this deal are located in the following markets: Butte, Great Falls, and Missoula, Montana; Montrose, Colorado; Sierra Vista, Arizona; St. George-Cedar City, Utah; Tri-Cities and Wenatchee, Washington; and Williston, North Dakota.

 

Round Four of February PPM Ratings Released. The fourth of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s February 2022 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. 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. In Raleigh, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WTKK-FM rises two-tenths for a 7.6 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) finish and remains #3 in the market while Curtis Media Group’s crosstown news/talk WPTF drops 1.3 shares for a 2.0 share finish and falls back to the #13 rank. Emmis Communications’ news/talk WIBC, Indianapolis sheds nine-tenths for a 9.7 share finish but remains ranked #2 in the market. In Milwaukee, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WISN falls from #1 to #2 after dipping two-tenths for a 9.5 share finish, while Good Karma Brands’ news/talk WTMJ adds four-tenths to wrap the survey with a 7.6 share that keeps it in the #4 rank. Cox Media Group’s news/talk WOKV-FM, Jacksonville posts a 10.6 share after rising six-tenths and that is good for the #1 rank in the market. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways for this group of markets (as well as the previous three groups) here.

 

Rhode Island Talk Radio Host John DePetro Continues Reporting from Ukraine. WNRI, Woonsocket, Rhode Island talk radio host John DePetro is pictured above (right) interviewing displaced Ukrainian Andre (left) who is serving as a volunteer in Western Ukraine helping his fellow citizens who’ve lost their homes. DePetro says that the situation in his Western Ukrainian location is “very tense.” So much so that for security reasons, journalists now face being incarcerated for taking any type of military photo or photo showing a specific location. See his video report here.

 

Audacy’s WJZ-FM, Baltimore Debuts ‘Baltimore Baseball Tonight’ Program. The new “Baltimore Baseball Tonight”  program on Audacy’s WJZ-FM, Baltimore “105.7 The Fan” will be hosted by midday personality Bob Haynie, Orioles legends Bill Ripken and Mike Bordick, former Orioles vice president of baseball operations Jim Duquette, and 105.7 The Fan’s Orioles beat reporter Cordell Woodland. Beginning Opening Day on April 7, the show will air at 6:00 pm ET on game nights and broadcast live from Pickles Pub across the street from the stadium when the team is home. When the team is on the road, the show will be live from various locations, including the 105.7 The Fan studios. Audacy Baltimore SVP and market manager Tracy Brandys says, “‘Baltimore Baseball Tonight’ will give fans an in-depth preview of the Baltimore professional baseball team throughout the season and bring them closer to the game than ever before. We’re also extremely excited to get back out with the fans at Pickles Pub and share our collective passion for the team alongside Bob, Bill, Mike, Jim and Cordell – five individuals who have decades of insight on the team.”

 

TALKERS News Notes. According to data from Comscore, FOX News Digital finished February as the top-performing news brand in the competitive set in both multiplatform views and multiplatform minutes. FOX News Digital says it delivered 2.9 billion multiplatform minutes and over 1.4 billion multiplatform views, while posting increases in multiplatform unique visitors and multiplatform minutes versus the prior month. February also marked the 12th straight month that FOX News outpaced every news organization in the competitive set in multiplatform minutes. While FOX News Digital topped primary competitor CNN.com in multiplatform total views and multiplatform total minutes, CNN.com beat FOX News Digital in multiplatform unique visitors by a margin of almost two to one…..As reported in Pittsburgh’s TribLive, sports radio pro Adam Crowley leaves iHeartMedia’s sports talk WBGG-AM “ESPN Pittsburgh” to join Audacy’s crosstown sports talk KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan” for weekend, fill-in, and producer duties…..Actor, director and educator LeVar Burton will receive the first-ever Insight Award from the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to broadcasting, history and American culture during the NAB Show Welcome on Monday, April 25 in Las Vegas. The Insight Award recognizes an individual or organization for an outstanding artistic or journalistic work or body of work that enhances the public’s understanding of the role, operation, history or impact of media in our society. Burton is known for his roles as Kunta Kinte in the acclaimed television mini-series “Roots” and as Lt. Commander Geordi La Forge in “Star Trek: The Next Generation.” A lifelong children’s literacy advocate, Burton was host and executive producer of “Reading Rainbow,” one of the longest-running children’s television shows in history, during its 26-year run from 1983 to 2009. The show received more than 25 Emmy Awards, including 10 for Outstanding Children’s Series, and was honored with a prestigious George Foster Peabody Award in 1992…..Host David Marzetti’s weekend golf program, “The Shagbag Radio Show,” is celebrating its 20thanniversary on April 2. The program is heard on iHeartMedia’s KION-AM, Salinas, California each Saturday. Marzetti, who broadcasts the program remotely from the Del Monte Golf Course in Monterey, says he has never missed a live show in its 20 years on air – even during the pandemic shutdown – and has featured more than 4,000 guests on over 1,000 shows in its 20-year run.

 

Russia-Ukraine War Top News/Talk Story for Week of March 21-25. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the global effects of the conflict made it the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was President Joe Biden’s leading a NATO summit addressing the Ukraine invasion, followed at #3 by U.S. relations with Russia and China and tied with North Korea’s intercontinental ballistic missile test. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top 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.

 

 

 

Westwood One Seeks Part-Time Producer. This is a Washington, DC-based position for a part-time producer to support the “Jim Bohannon Show,” “America in the Morning” and “First Light.” The producer performs all the functions of the producer for vacation relief and other times and will assist with the production of the programs, including news assignments, call screening, podcast and archive uploading, and other responsibilities as needed. The ideal candidate should have a strong knowledge of news events and passion for radio. They must be able to multitask and handle a fast-paced working environment, be detail-oriented, prompt and reliable, thrive on working as part of a team and respond well to direction. Must possess excellent writing and storytelling skills. Get more information and apply here.

Front Page News Industry News

Thursday, March 24, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Casey Daniels Named Co-Host of WIBC-FM, Indianapolis’ Late Morning Show. Radio and television pro Casey Daniels is joining Emmis Communications to co-host the late morning daypart on news/talk WIBC-FM, Indianapolis alongside Rob Kendall. Daniels was most recently program director of Grand Rapids’ classic hits WFGR. Prior to that, she spent six years hosting and producing a daytime talk show for WSBT-TV, South Bend. Emmis Indy VP of programming David Wood says, “Casey is a storyteller with great curiosity and creativity. Pairing her with Rob Kendall and his deep knowledge of how local and state government works (or doesn’t work) will create a very entertaining and informative show.” The new “Kendall and Casey Show” will begin on April 4. Daniels says, “I’m so thrilled to be back home again in Indiana at legendary 93 WIBC. I want to thank Taja Graham, David Wood, Matt Hibbeln and Rob Kendall. I’m grateful for this amazing opportunity and what’s next. I’ll see you on the circle!”

 

Jon Johnson New Overnight Host on Sports Talk WIP, Philadelphia. According to a report at Crossing Broad, Jon Johnson is assuming the role of overnight sports talk host at WIP, Philadelphia. Johnson tweeted: “Some professional news: I will be taking over for my good friend Big Daddy Graham & becoming the full-time host of the @SportsRadioWIP overnight show, starting tonight. In addition, I will still be part of @WIPMorningShow, & back at WFC, CBP covering big games again.” About Johnson’s recent role with the station, Crossing Broad’s Kevin Kinkead writes, “This is interesting. Jon has been a Swiss army knife for WIP for a long time now, filling a variety of shifts and roles. He covers for Angelo [Cataldi] in the mornings, works night and weekend shifts, and goes down to Citizens Bank Park and The Wells Fargo Center for games.” Big Daddy Graham passed away last September after a series of health issues.

 

Round Three of February PPMs Released. The third of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s February 2022 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus. 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. In Portland, Alpha Media’s news/talk KXL-FM tacks on one-tenth for a 7.7 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) and remains ranked #4, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk KEX-AM rises three-tenths to a 3.1 share good for the #14 rank. iHeartMedia’s KFBK-AM/FM, Sacramento falls six-tenths to finish with a 6.5 share but remains ranked #3. In Salt Lake City, iHeartMedia’s news/talk KNRS-AM/FM claims the #1 rank after climbing eight-tenths to an 8.4 share, while Bonneville’s crosstown news/talk KSL-AM/FM loses half a share to finish with a 6.0 share good for the #4 rank. Audacy’s KMBZ-FM, Kansas City adds six-tenths for a 7.8 share finish that boosts it to the #1 rank in the market. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets (as well as the first two rounds) here.

 

Edison Research’s Infinite Dial 2022: Online Audio Consumption Jumps. The 2022 edition of Edison Research’s The Infinite Dial study was unveiled yesterday (3/23) at the Podcast Movement: Evolutions conference in Los Angeles. The big takeaway is that online audio consumption in the U.S. showed significant gains year-over-year. According to the data, 73% of the U.S. 12+ population (an estimated 209 million people) have listened to online audio in the last month, up from 68% in 2021. This jump was primarily driven by listeners age 35+, as the number of those age 35+ who listen to online audio monthly increased by 13% year-over-year. Weekly online audio listening also rose to 67% of the U.S. 12+ population, up from 62% in 2021. The report goes on to conclude that podcasting’s reach is wider than ever but listening behaviors have shifted a bit as Americans return to pre-pandemic routines. Sixty-two percent of those age 12+ in the U.S. (an estimated 177 million people) have ever listened to a podcast, up from 57% last year. Podcast listening – which skyrocketed during the beginning of the pandemic – has tailed off. Edison’s Tom Webster says, “Clearly, Americans went back to work and back to school last year, which brought podcasting numbers back in line with pre-pandemic figures. However, the trend line continues to go up, particularly with 35-54 year olds.”

 

‘On Being’ Host Krista Tippett Leaving Public Radio System. The executive producer and host of the award-winning public radio show and podcast “On Being” announces she will leave the public radio system effective this June. The national weekly show, which began as “Speaking of Faith” in July 2003, and was renamed “On Being” in 2010, will continue this fall as a seasonally produced podcast. Krista Tippett says, “The front edge of growth of the organization I founded in 2013, The On Being Project, is at the intersection of media and long-term social healing. It’s time for us to live more fully into that mission, and for me to be differently present to this moment in the life of the world. For me personally, this is an energizing and necessary transition. After hosting 52 weeks of programming a year for close to 20 years, I’m ready to move to a more sustainable rhythm and to open space and time for writing, public engagement, and new extensions of our content in the world that is emerging.” “On Being” is distributed by WNYC/New York Public Radio and has more than 650,000 weekly radio listeners on public radio stations around the country. The podcast has had over 375 million total plays and downloads.

 

Veritonic: Audio Logo Index Ranks Top Audio Logos. The results of Veritonic’s annual Audio Logo Index reveal the top in-market audio logos for overall effectiveness. An audio logo is the spoken or sung portion of an audio ad that identifies the product or service. The company says that effectiveness is measured by logo recall, creative resonance (i.e. uniqueness, trustworthiness, and innovation), and correct association to the brand and industry. Each logo is compared to Veritonic audio logo benchmarks developed and trained by 6-plus years of audio and human response data. This report was compiled based on responses from more than 2,800 panelists that represent the general U.S. population. The best audio logos score highly in 1) creative resonance because the most effective executions elicit resonant and positive feelings towards a brand; 2) in recall as memorability of a brand is paramount for winning future sales; and 3) in association because an audio logo is only effective if the brand is continuously and consistently associated with it (and not one of your competitors). The top audio logos in the 2022 study were: #1 Folgers, #2 State Farm, #3 Liberty Mutual, and #4 Farmers Insurance. You can see more about the study results and hear audio logo samples here.

 

KFAN’s Dan Barreiro Inducted into Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame. Twin Cities sports talk host Dan Barreiro was recently inducted into the Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame. Barreiro is host of the afternoon drive “Bumper to Bumper with Dan Barreiro” program at iHeartMedia’s KFXN-FM, Minneapolis “KFAN 100.3” as well as the “Sunday Sermons with Dan Barreiro” weekend show. Barreiro was a sports columnist at the Star Tribune for 17 years. He joined KFAN in 1992. He also co-hosts the Fox 9 television program “Enough Said” on Friday nights. iHeartMedia market president Greg Alexander says, “Dan epitomizes the make-up of a tremendous talk show in the Twin Cities. He puts together compelling interviews and has the ability to break down any and every topic to entertain our listeners. He is a true talent.” SVP of programming Gregg Swedberg adds, “There isn’t a radio personality who has had the kind of ratings success over the last three decades than Dan Barreiro. He has done it by hosting intelligent, entertaining, and compelling radio. He’s more than the ‘Big Ticket,’ he is the blueprint.”

 

KMJ-AM/FM, Fresno Celebrates 100 Years of Service. Fresno news/talk KMJ celebrated its 100th birthday on March 23. Cumulus Media kicked off the station’s year-long Centennial celebration that will include a concert to be announced and a documentary film. KMJ began broadcasting on March 23, 1922 and is the 38th oldest licensed and continually operating radio station in America. It was originally owned by the San Joaquin Light and Power Corporation, was later acquired by the McClatchy Newspaper Company in 1925 and has seen a handful of owners in the past century. Cumulus Fresno VP and market manager Patty Hixson says, “I started listening to KMJ in my 20s. Over the past 33-plus years, I have had the great honor and privilege to have worked with some of the greatest talent in the business, both on air and in sales. I am truly grateful and humbled by the fact that I have been so blessed to serve our valued listeners – this is my home! The KMJ brand will continue to serve our community and central California through continued focus on relevant content, philanthropy, and ethical business practices. Every day we aspire to be great and it’s the men and women that work here every day, and have done so for the past 100 years, who deserve all the credit for achieving such a wonderful milestone.” Station program director Blake Taylor says, “It’s been an amazing run, and it’s far from over. KMJ has covered everything from the Harding administration to the Biden White House. Terrible tragedies to inspirational triumphs and everything in between. The service to the public of Fresno and the entire Central Valley of California will continue to be our sole focus for the next 100 years.”

 

TALKERS News Notes. Washington, DC sports talk outlet WTEM “The Team 980” will no longer serve as the flagship station for play-by-play of the NFL’s Washington Commanders. The station – formerly owned by Commanders team owner Dan Snyder – is now owned by Audacy and the station issued a statement on its website that host Kevin Sheehan made on air. It reads: “The organization and the company ‘disagreed on the value of the broadcasts [and] it is also very important for us as a sports talk station, even as a long-time flagship station for the team, it was important for us to continue to be able to provide honest, objective information and analysis about the [Commanders] on our talk shows.” The station obviously believed it could not report objectively while in a financial relationship with the team…..One of radio’s hardest-working talk hosts is adding some fill-in work to his schedule. WHO, Des Moines afternoon drive personality Simon Conway – who is simulcast to WMT, Cedar Rapids and WOC, Quad Cities – is filling in on iHeartMedia sister station WFLF, Orlando “WFLA” for “Good Morning Orlando” host Bud Hedinger, who is set to undergo heart bypass surgery. In addition, Conway will also be hosting the Premiere Networks nationally syndicated “The Weekend” show on Saturday (3/26)…..G Accelerate Networks announces it has signed a long-term agreement with the “Lou Dobbs Financial Reports” for exclusive advertising sales, affiliate sales, and distribution. The feature – delivered three times daily Monday through Friday, will launch April 18…..SiriusXM enters into a multi-platform agreement with Crooked Media, the independent progressive media company that produces “Pod Save America,” “Lovett or Leave It,” and “Pod Save the World,” through the 2024 election cycle and beyond. The agreement gives SXM Media, the advertising sales arm of Sirius XM Holdings Inc., exclusive global ad sales rights to Crooked Media’s extensive lineup of podcasts beginning in May. SXM Media also gains sales and sponsorship rights to digital video, social media, and live events produced by Crooked Media.

 

Russia-Ukraine War, Biden Europe Trip, Jackson Confirmation Hearings, Gas Prices/Inflation, COVID-19, Idaho Abortion Law, and Madeleine Albright Dies Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/23). The ongoing invasion of Ukraine by Russia, Vladimir Putin’s threats to the West, and the economic effects of the disruption in Europe; President Joe Biden travels to Europe to rally support against Russia; day three of confirmation hearings for Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson; still-soaring gas prices in the U.S. and the high consumer retail prices; concerns about the Omicron BA.2 variant and the airlines ask Biden to let mask mandates expire next month; Idaho Governor Brad Little signs new, restrictive abortion policy into law; and former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright dies at 84 among top news/talk stories yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

February 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Three

By Editor | by Editor

February 2022 PPM Data – Information for the February 2022 ratings period has been released for Portland; Charlotte; San Antonio; Sacramento; Pittsburgh; Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Orlando; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Kansas City; and Columbus.

Nielsen Audio’s February 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+).

PORTLAND

News/Talk: Alpha Media’s KXL “FM 101 News” 7.6 – 7.7, +.1, repeats in fourth-place

iHeartMedia-owned KEX “News Radio 1190” 2.8 – 3.1, +.3, #15 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB 10.1 – 8.9, -1.2, #1 and KOPB’s internet stream 2.1 – 1.9, -.2, flat at #19

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KOPB, second month in succession, 10.1 – 8.9, -1.2

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: country KUPL (+.7)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KKCW (-1.5)

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk: Radio One-owned WBT AM & WBT-FM “Charlotte’s News Talk” 3.9 – 3.3, -.6, #13 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Radio One’s WFNZ-FM “Sports Radio 92.7” 2.2 – 2.1, -.1, flat at #16

Beasley Media Group-owned WSOC-HD3 “Fox Sports Charlotte” .3 – .4, +.1, stays at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University Radio Foundation’s WFAE 4.2 – 4.6, +.4, #12 to #8

South Carolina Educational Television Commission-owned WNSC .4 – .5, +.1, remains at #19

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WKQC, first month, 4.4 – 6.3, +1.9

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WKQC (+1.9)*

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: urban-rhythmic oldies WOSF (-.7)

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

Note: Roughly two weeks into the February 2022 sweep (2/16), Radio One flipped urban contemporary WQNC to sports talk WFNZ-FM.

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WOAI “News Radio 1200” (Spurs) 4.4 – 5.1, +.7, eighth to seventh

Alpha Media-owned KTSA “Stay Connected” 2.6 – 2.4, -.2, unchanged at #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Texas Public Radio’s KSTX 3.4 – 3.3, -.1, flat at #12

Number One 6+ (Tie): Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM, first month, 6.8 – 7.1, +.3 and iHeartMedia adult contemporary KQXT, first month, 7.0 – 7.1, +.1

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase:  country KAJA (+1.4)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: classic rock KTKX (-1.4)

SACRAMENTO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM “News 1530 AM & 93.1 FM” 7.1 – 6.5, -.6, locked in third-place and cluster-mate KSTE “Talk 650” 3.7 – 3.3, -.4, #11 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KIFM-AM “ESPN 1320” 1.3 – .9, -.4, #18 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Capital Public Radio-owned KXJZ 5.0 – 4.6, -.4, seventh to sixth

Number One 6+: Audacy classic rock KSEG, second month in a row, 9.3 – 10.2, +.9

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase:  country KNCI (+1.1)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: rock KRXQ (-.8)

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk: Audacy’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020 AM” 5.0 – 4.8, -.2, sixth to seventh

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan All Sports All The Time” 9.1 – 7.5, -1.6, second to fourth

Public Radio News/Talk: Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting’s WESA 3.1 – 2.8, -.3, repeats at #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW, fourth month in succession, 10.1 – 10.8, +.7

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase:  adult hits WRRK (+.8)

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

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM “Talk Radio” 7.6 – 8.4, +.8, #2 to #1

Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” 6.5 – 6.0, -.5, repeats in fourth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Utah’s KUER 4.3 – 4.1, -.2, eighth to tenth

Number One 6+: news/talk KNRS, first month, 7.6 – 8.4, +.8

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase:  classical KBYU (+1.6)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KRSP (-1.2)

LAS VEGAS

News/Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned KDWN “The Talk Of Las Vegas” 1.4 – 2.2, +.8, #23 to #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR 2.5 – 2.2, -.3, #14 to #15

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE, first month, 6.9 – 7.4, +.5

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: urban-rhythmic oldies KOAS (+1.5)

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

ORLANDO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKS “Real Radio 104.1” 6.2 – 6.3, +.1, sixth to fourth and cluster-mate WFLF “Orlando News Radio” 1.3 – 1.8, +.5, #19 to #16

Cox Media Group-owned WDBO “Orlando’s News Talk” 1.9 – 1.6, -.3, anchored at #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WYGM “96.9 The Game” (Magic) 2.0 – 1.5, -.5, #16 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Community Connections’ WMFE 2.5 – 2.4, -.1, #13 to #15

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia CHR WXXL, second straight month, 8.3 – 7.9, -.4

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic rock WMMO (+1.0)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: Spanish contemporary WOEX (-.7)

CINCINNATI

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WLW “700 Cincinnati’s News Radio” 11.5 – 12.3, +.8, locked in second-place and cluster-mate WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” 7.0 – 5.3, -1.7, repeats in fourth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WCKY “ESPN 1530” 1.4 – 1.1, -.3, #17 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Cincinnati Public Radio-owned WVXU 4.8 – 5.1, +.3, sixth to fifth

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WGRR, second successive month, 13.4 – 12.6, -.8

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: news/talk WLW (+.8)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: news/talk WKRC (-1.7)**

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

CLEVELAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTAM “News Radio 1100” (Cavaliers) 4.7 – 5.5, +.8, seventh to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” 5.4 – 4.2, -1.2, #6 to #11 and WKRK’s internet stream 1.1 – 1.0, -.1, #16 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Ideastream’s WCPN 4.1 – 4.4, +.3, #11 to #9

Kent State University-owned WKSU flat at 1.5, steady at #15

Number One 6+: Radio One urban AC WZAK, second month in a row, 11.3 – 11.1, -.2

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase (Tie): news/talk WTAM and country WGAR (+.8)

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

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMBZ-FM “98.1 FM News, Traffic, Weather” 7.2 – 7.8, +.6, #3 to #1 and cluster-mate KMBZ-AM “Talk 980 AM” .5 – .9, +.4, #22 to #20

Cumulus Media-owned KCMO-AM “Talk Radio 710 AM” .5 – .9, +.4, #22 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KCSP “Sports Radio 610 Our Teams, Our Town” 2.9 – 1.5, -1.4, #12 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri’s KCUR 6.0 – 6.5, +.5, fifth to fourth

Number One 6+: news/talk KMBZ-FM, first month, 7.2 – 7.8, +.6

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase (Tie): hot AC KZPT and country KBEQ (+.9)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk KCSP (-1.4)

COLUMBUS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WTVN “News Radio 610” 8.5 – 9.3, +.8, #3 to #1

News: iHeartMedia’s WYTS “Columbus’ BIN 1230” flat at .3, #19 to #20

Sports Talk: Tegna-owned WBNS-FM “97.1 FM The Fan” (Blue Jackets) 9.5 – 8.8, -.7, #1 to #2 and co-owned WBNS-AM “ESPN 1460 AM” flat at .6, #18 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Ohio State University’s WOSU 7.7 – 8.3, +.6, fifth to third

Number One 6+: news/talk WTVN, first month, 8.5 – 9.3, +.8

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase:  adult contemporary WSNY (+1.2)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: CHR WNCI (-1.2)

Up next: February 2022 overviews for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

 

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.

Ratings Takeaways

February 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

By Editor | by Editor

February 2022 PPM Data – Information for the February 2022 ratings period has been released for New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; San Francisco; Dallas; Houston; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario; San Jose; and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.

Nielsen Audio’s February 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+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.0 – 2.9, -.1, #12 to #13

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.8 – 2.9, +.1, repeats at #13

News: Audacy’s WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 4.3 – 4.0, -.3, flat at #7 and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 2.8 – 2.6, -.2, #13 to #16

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 3.8 – 2.6, -1.2, #8 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.5 – 3.6, +.1, tenth to eighth

Number One 6+: Emmis urban AC WBLS, second consecutive month, 6.6 – 5.9, -.7

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: urban contemporary WWPR (+.7)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM (-1.2)

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 3.7 – 4.0, +.3, steady in seventh-place

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 3.1 – 3.3, +.2, #10 to #11

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.4 – 2.5, +.1, #15 to #14

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, eighth successive month, 6.3 – 5.8, -.5

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: smooth AC KTWV (+.5)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KOST (-.5)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” (Blackhawks) 5.2 – 4.6, -.6, fourth to fifth

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 5.7 – 5.1, -.6, first to third

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 5.4 – 5.7, +.3, third to first

Number One 6+ (Tie): iHeartMedia urban AC WVAZ, second consecutive month, flat at 5.7 and public radio news/talk WBEZ, first month, 5.4 – 5.7, +.3

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WRME (+.7)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease (Tie): news WBBM-AM & WCFS and news/talk WGN (-.6)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.8 – 1.9, +.1, #17 to #18

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 7.1 – 7.3, +.2, unchanged in second-place

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” 4.6 – 2.2, -2.4, #4 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.’s KQED 8.5 – 7.9, -.6, first

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KQED, second straight month, 8.5 – 7.9, -.6,

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary KOIT-FM (+.7)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk KNBR (-2.4)*

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

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.1 – 2.9, -.2, anchored at #14

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” 2.1 – 2.5, +.4, #19 to #18

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) 3.7 – 3.4, -.3, #7 to #11

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting’s KERA 3.5 – 3.6, +.1, #12 to #9

Number One 6+: Univision regional Mexican KLNO, first month, 5.2 – 7.2, +2.0

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: regional Mexican KLNO (+2.0)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk KRLD-FM (-1.0)

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” 4.7 – 4.8, +.1, sixth to seventh

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston-owned KUHF 2.2 – 2.8, +.6, #19 to #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, eleventh consecutive month, 7.4 – 8.1, +.7

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary KODA (+.7)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: CHR KRBE (-.9)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 6.9 – 7.4, +.5, third to second

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks) 2.4 – 1.6, -.8, #15 to #18

Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” 1.9 – 1.5, -.4, #17 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 2.8 – 3.1, +.3, #12 to #13

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, second successive month, 7.1 – 8.8, +1.7

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WSRV (+1.7)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: gospel WPZE (-1.0)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 1.3 – 1.4, +.1, #20 to #19

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 5.2 – 4.9, -.3, locked on #6

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” 3.9 – 3.7, -.2, flat at #9

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers and Flyers) 3.1 – 3.6, +.5, #11 to #10

WIP’s internet stream, 1.9 – 2.0, +.1, repeats at #15

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 7.4 – 6.1, -1.3, second to fourth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM, first month, 7.3 – 8.0, +.7

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic rock WMGK (+.9)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WHYY (-1.3)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 4.3 – 4.1, -.2, sixth

Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 1.8 – 1.9, +.1, #15 to #18

News: Audacy’s WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 3.5 – 2.8, -.7, #5 to #12 and cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 3.0 – 2.5, -.5, #8 to #14

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 3.5 – 2.4, -1.1, #5 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM, second straight month, 7.4 – 6.5, -.9

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic rock WBAB (+1.0)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: CHR WHTZ (-1.4)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, .3 – .4, +.1, #15 to #20

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, second consecutive month, 8.4 – 9.5, +1.1

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies KOLA (+1.1)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: regional Mexican KSCA (-.8)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KGO “810 AM” 2.0 – 1.8, -.2, #11 to #14

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 5.4 – 5.0, -.4, fourth to fifth

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” 3.5 – 1.7, -1.8, #8 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Empire country KRTY first month 5.4 – 7.5, +2.1

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: country KRTY (+2.1)**

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease sports talk KNBR (-1.8)

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

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 5.9 – 6.3, +.4, second to first

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 1.9 – 2.1, +.2, #12 to #14 and cluster-mate WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 1.1 – 1.3, +.2, #16 to #20

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 2.9 – 2.5, -.4, #10 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+ (Tie): Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish tropical WSKQ, second straight month, 6.0 – 6.3, +.3 and news/talk WKXW, first month, 5.9 – 6.3, +.4

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: the internet stream of Spanish tropical WSKQ (+1.0)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: CHR WHTZ (-1.9)

Up next: February 2022 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

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

Features

Today’s David Grapples Goliath with Problem/Solution

By Editor | by Editor

By Mike Kinosian
TALKERS magazine
Managing Editor

 

TAMPA — When we profiled WRVA, Richmond’s Jeff Katz in this space last week (TALKERS, Wednesday, 3/9), the afternoon drive talent echoed one particular concern shared by many of his peers regarding talk radio’s future.

Specifically questioned was the depth of news/talk radio’s farm system and the source of the format’s next wave of great on-air personalities.

One budding star though might very well be developing in Central Florida: That’s where David Gornoski has been paying his dues as a podcaster and station talent, using “A Neighbor’s Choice” as his program’s unique umbrella title.

(more…)

Front Page News Industry News

Wednesday, March 16, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

John Rosso Rises to President and CEO of Triton Digital. The company’s president of market development rises to president and CEO as Triton Digital founder Neal Schore transitions to managing advisor. John Rosso says of his new role, “I am extremely proud of Triton Digital’s achievements and market-leading innovations and accomplishments and I’m looking forward to guiding the company as we continue to fuel the growth of the global online audio industry. Neal has always insisted that Triton Digital provide unparalleled service, unrivaled expertise and a commitment to excellence, and I look forward to building on that legacy, further expanding Triton Digital and contributing even more to the industry as we move into the next stage of growth.” Schore comments, “I founded Triton Digital in 2006 to reinvent the online audio industry. It has been wildly fulfilling for me to experience Triton Digital delivering innovative technology, attracting the best of the best team, and building an incredible client base in over 80 countries, and I am so grateful to our team and clients for all their loyalty and trust since launching the company over 16 years ago. I’m pleased to assume the role of managing advisor, and to continue to support Triton Digital’s clients and employees under John’s exceptional leadership as Triton Digital continues to carry on our tradition of driving and leading our industry.”

 

Brett Beshore to Lead Alpha Media Dayton Cluster. Radio executive Brett Beshore joins Alpha Media as SVP/market manager for the company’s Dayton station group that includes sports talk WING-AM and four music brands. Beshore has served as market president for iHeartMedia Indianapolis for the past 10 years. Alpha Media regional president and chief compliance officer Bill McElveen commented on the announcement, “Since our former market manager in Dayton, Keith Wright, announced his retirement earlier this year, we’ve been searching for the best possible candidate to lead our awesome team in Dayton, and Brett brings all of Alpha’s core values to the market. He knows how to lead a team and serve a great market and we’re excited to welcome him aboard.” Beshore states, “I’m thrilled for the opportunity to join ‘the Pack’ at Alpha Media. Alpha’s Dayton stations have a highly talented team and a solid track record of success in the market with heritage brands such as WDHT-FM, WROU-FM, WGTZ-FM, WCLI-FM and WING-AM.  I look forward to serving our advertiser partners and providing great content for our listeners. I can’t wait to tell the story and find ways to use our stations to build and promote the great city of Dayton.”

 

iHeartMedia Announces Deal with TicketSmarter. A new multi-year agreement between Digital Ally’s TicketSmarter and iHeartMedia is struck that includes national marketing campaigns, prominent website feature displays, and sponsorship of national contests. The national contests will be powered by TicketSmarter and allow iHeartRadio listeners the opportunity to win trips and experiences. TicketSmarter CEO Jeff Goodman says, “We are thrilled to kick off this agreement with iHeartRadio and their innovative marketing team. We look forward to building once-in-a-lifetime experiences for their listeners.”

 

Today’s David Grapples Goliath with Problem/Solution. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian today presents a profile of Tampa-based talk personality David Gornoski. The 33-year-old hosts a daily, two-hour show on Genesis Communications’ WHBO, Tampa that is also distributed as a podcast. He assesses his endeavor as “more of a mission,” rather than a conventional news/talk show, succinctly mentioning the “Neighbor’s Choice” title “felt right” when he started this project approximately seven years ago. “It actually began as an informal book club with some friends I gathered together. We try to make sense of current events through the lens of anthropology – I called our little group ‘a neighbor’s choice.’ I thought we need to shake things up by taking ideas we’ve been [discussing] in our neighborly community to the public. I wanted to introduce a new way of looking at things and began doing a podcast online in 2015.” He says that he views Joe Rogan’s podcast success as something radio should look at. “Joe Rogan does a fantastic show and has been able to build a parallel universe with a younger demographic. If we bring a young, relevant, fresh and interesting perspective to talk radio, there’s no reason why we can’t have 11 million young people tuning into a [terrestrial] radio show.” Read more here.

 

TALKERS News Notes. At 2022 SXSW yesterday (3/15), PodcastOne president Kit Gray took part in the panel titled, “Everything Old is New Again: The Podcast Biz Model, along with fellow panelists Gary Ousdahl of Advanced Management, Jenni Skaug of Sonic Influencer Marketing, and panel moderator Ilana Susnow, head of marketing & audience development for PodcastOne. The goal was to talk about the modern podcast business model and how it has adapted and adopted methods from content industries including TV, radio, streaming, and social media…..Good Karma Brands’ KSPN-AM, “ESPN Los Angeles” and the Los Angeles Lakers agree to extend their radio rights deal, continuing a long-standing partnership. The station will carry all regular-season games as well as all preseason and post-season games. The station has served as the official radio broadcast home of the Los Angeles Lakers since 2009. Handling play-by-play duties are John Ireland, currently in his 11th season as the Lakers radio play-by-play announcer, and Lakers legend and two-time World Champion, Mychal Thompson, who is in his 19th season as color commentator…..The Charlotte Observer and Raleigh News & Observer, in collaboration with iHeartRadio, announce the release of “Payback,” a new multimedia series on the years-long fight by members of the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) against what they allege is “institutionalized gender discrimination” in professional soccer. On February 22, 2022, the six-year legal battle between U.S. Soccer and the USWNT came to an end with an announced $24 million settlement and a pledge from the league’s governing body that steps would be taken to ensure equal pay between men’s and women’s teams in all competitions, including the World Cup. “Payback” examines some of the circumstances and events that led to the players’ filing.

 

Broadcasters Foundation Raises $300,000 at Golden Mike Award Gala. More than 270 radio and television broadcasters gathered at the Plaza Hotel in New York City on March 14 to honor Hilton H. Howell, Jr., chairman of the board and CEO of Gray Television and Atlantic American Corporation, with the 2022 Golden Mike Award and Lesley Visser, the first woman sportscaster to report on all major sporting events with the 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award. The gala was a fundraiser, raising over $300,000 to support the mission of the Broadcasters Foundation of America, which provides financial assistance to broadcasters in acute need. The annual event returned this year following a one-year hiatus due to the pandemic. Pictured here are Howell (left) and Visser (right).

 

Russia-Ukraine War, Gas Prices/Inflation, COVID-19, Daylight Saving Time, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, and Urban Violence Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/15). Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, the U.S.’s role in sanctions and arming the Ukrainian military, and Volodymyr Zelensky’s planned address to Congress; soaring gas prices and the still rising costs of retail consumer goods; the leveling of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., the lockdowns in China, and the still-active People’s Convoy protesting mandates in Washington, DC; the U.S. Senate approves a bill to keep Daylight Saving Time year round; the battle for control of Congress in November’s midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the capture of a man suspected of killing homeless people, the arrest of an NYC man who beat an elderly Asian woman, and other examples of violent urban crime were some of the top stories discussed on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Wednesday, March 9, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Ryan Kaufman Adds KVOR, Colorado Springs PD Duties. Radio programmer Ryan Kaufman is promoted to program director for Cumulus Media’s news/talk KVOR-AM, Colorado Springs. Kaufman has been serving the company as PD for sports talk KCSF-AM “Xtra Sports 1300” and will continue in that role. Kaufman takes over for Bobby Irwin who continues in his position as operations manager of the Cumulus Colorado Springs station group and PD for two music brands. Cumulus Colorado Springs market manager Scott Jones says, “This is a well-deserved opportunity for Ryan. He’s a rising star in our business and you won’t find anyone more dedicated to and passionate about his trade. Ryan’s instincts are spot on and when you combine that with his tremendous work ethic, you achieve great results. I’m excited for us, for Ryan, and especially, for our listeners.” Kaufman comments, “Taking over a heritage station like KVOR is an amazing opportunity. Whether it’s sports or news/talk, the most important thing is the ability to engage in a conversation with the listener, talking about the issues that matter to them and keeping them informed. KVOR has been leading that conversation in Southern Colorado for decades with thought-provoking hosts and unrivaled news coverage. I look forward to working alongside news director Jim Arthur to not just maintain that standard but exceed it.”

 

 

Michael Berry Hosts Sold-Out ‘Great Texas Barbeque, Beer & Bourbon Blowout.’ Last Friday (3/4), KTRH, Houston-based, syndicated talk radio host Michael Berry hosted the sold-out “Great Texas Barbeque, Beer & Bourbon Blowout” in Houston that featured Premiere Networks syndicated personalities Jesse Kelly and the team of Clay Travis & Buck Sexton. The event treated a packed crowd of more than 1,200 listeners and fans to live music from country music artist Tracy Byrd as well as a conversation between the hosts about their careers and current events, including the conflict in Ukraine and the impact on the U.S., the midterm elections, and more. Michael Berry says, “Jesse and I love our fellow Texans here in Houston. Our listeners were keen to meet Clay and Buck and welcome them – Texas style, to our home with good food, good drinks, good music, and a good time. Clay and Buck loved ‘em back, and it was a great event all around. Radio can be a one-way medium – we talk into a microphone and they listen. For them to meet us, and more importantly, for us to meet them, reminds us why we do what we do and for whom.” Pictured above are (from l-r): Kelly, Berry Travis, and Sexton.

 

iHeartMedia’s Seattle Sports Talk KJR Adds Full-Market FM Signal. Seattle sports talk outlet KJR-AM gets an FM simulcast as iHeartMedia Seattle moves the hip hop on KUBE-FM to KUBE-HD3 and rebrands the sports station as “Sports Radio 93.3 KJR FM, Seattle’s Sports Leader.” KJR-AM will continue to air the sports format. iHeartMedia Seattle market president Mark Glynn says, “By moving the legendary KJR brand to the FM band, we’re going to be able to grow the next generation of Seattle Sports fans. With the combination of ‘Sports Radio 93.3 KJR FM,’ ‘Sports Radio 950 KJR AM’ and the iHeartRadio app, we enhance our sports platform and become the #1 destination for sports and currently the only FM sports platform in Seattle.”

 

 

John DePetro Broadcasts Live from Eastern Poland. Pictured above is WNRI, Woonsocket, Rhode Island talk host John DePetro broadcasting his radio program live on the radio station and Facebook Live from Rzeszow, Poland. DePetro tells TALKERS, “Challenging broadcast to say the least but valuable first-hand account of situation in Eastern Europe.” DePetro notes that Rzeszow is the closest airport to the border of Ukraine and main hub for thousands of refugees. He says he’s secured a translator and security and plans to broadcast later in the week from the Ukraine border.

 

RAB Extends President and CEO Erica Farber. As part of the Radio Advertising Bureau’s spring board of directors meeting held March 2-3 in Orlando, the organization announces a few updates “intended to maintain its executive ranks and strategically position the organization for continued growth as it serves a diverse and evolving broadcast radio industry.” Among those are the contract extension for president and CEO Erica Farber keeping her in that position through April 2024. The RAB’s executive committee also has reinstated and activated several new committees, including committees focused on bylaws, nominating, finance, strategy, investment, events, network, multicultural, and the National Radio Talent System. The committees are overseen by the RAB board of directors with participation by RAB’s senior staff and are intended to help the organization manage its day-to-day business, while planning ahead for the future and benefit of the radio industry. Also, at the meeting, Carolyn Fisher, partner, Southeast & Midwest Region, StateNets, officially joins the board of directors replacing Dave Martin.

 

Russia-Ukraine War, Gas Prices/Inflation, January 6 Capitol Attack Conviction, COVID-19, House Omnibus Bill, Postal Service Reform Act, and Brittney Griner Case Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/8). Russia’s ongoing invasion of the Ukraine and the West’s reaction; the soaring price of gas at the pump and high consumer retail prices; the first person to stand trial for the January 6 attack on the Capitol is convicted; the falling rate of COVID-19 cases and the rolling back of mask mandates; the U.S. House prepares to vote on an omnibus bill that would include $14 billion in Ukraine aid; Congress passes bill to overhaul USPS finances; and WNBA star Brittney Griner is detained in Russia after hashish oil found in her luggage were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

 

 

 

FOX News Media Has News Reporter Opportunity. This is a Washington, DC-based, full-time position for an experienced reporter. You will cover a wide range of political, government, and Congressional stories for FOX News Audio (FOX News Headlines 24/7 and FOX News Terrestrial Radio). You possess strong journalism skills and thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Most importantly, you have great editorial judgement and the ability to break important news stories. See more about this position and apply here.

 

FOX News Seeks Freelance Producer/Editor. This freelance producer/editor position is based in New York and requires you to supervise the staff for FOX News Media’s network radio news operations (terrestrial and FOX News Headlines 24/7 – Channel 115 on SiriusXM Radio). As the freelance producer/news editor you are the editorial leader, working with news anchors to craft the content and structure of a 24/7 news operation. This is fast-moving news environment! Your ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven newsroom allows you to deliver top-quality segments/newscasts. You excel at multi-tasking and pay close attention to details. Your writing and editing skills are excellent and your editorial judgment is first-rate. See more about the job and apply here.

Front Page News Industry News

Monday, February 28, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Monday Memo: Read Me, Please! “Few opportunities to engage are more powerful than the ongoing email conversation you have with listeners.” Consultant Holland Cooke calls it “a relationship that Pandora and Spotify and your robotic AM/FM competitors can’t emulate.” In this week’s column, HC shares tips for the most important words of your email: its subject line. Read about it here.

 

Pending Business: Sell Carefully. Radio sales pro Steve Lapa says the war in the Ukraine has the potential to bring more information and opinion-hungry listeners to your news/talk station and provides a sales opportunity. “The loyal audience base your station has worked hard to develop will lock in regularly for information updates and the clarity your air talent can bring to a complex and intimidating situation that could affect everything from the price of gas at the local pump to a roller coaster ride in their stock portfolio.” He offers six tips for selling during this historic news storm. Read more here.

 

KNBR-AM/FM, San Francisco Promotes Adam Copeland to Afternoons. Sports talk radio pro Adam Copeland is promoted to co-host of the afternoon drive with longtime host Tom Tolbert on Cumulus Media’s KNBR-AM/FM, San Francisco. This comes after Cumulus parts ways with Tolbert’s former co-hosts Larry Krueger and Rod Brooks. Tolbert tweeted last week about their departure, saying, “Rod and Larry are no longer on the show. It sucks. I’m always saddened when something doesn’t work. I love both of those guys. I consider them friends. I can’t tell you why some things work and some don’t work. It’s a bummer. It stinks.” The new “Tolbert and Copes” show airs from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Copeland joined KNBR as an intern in 2009 and was hired in 2016 as a board operator. He eventually became the producer of “KNBR Tonight with Ryan Covay.” In 2018, after time as a fill-in host on the station, Copeland was named host of his own talk show, “The Lead Off Spot with Adam Copeland,” airing weekday mornings from 5:00 am-6:00 am. He also served as a producer of the “Murph and Mac” morning program.  Copeland says, “Having the opportunity to host ‘The Leadoff Spot’ and hang with Murph and Mac for the past four years has been a dream come true since I was 16 years old, and I’m forever indebted to all the loyal listeners, callers, and guests who made the show as fun and engaging as it was. It’s been the honor of my life. I look forward to bringing that same energy and enthusiasm to afternoon drive with the legendary Tom Tolbert. I know I have big shoes to fill, and I hope to make my fellow Bay Area sports fans proud. Onward and upward.”

 

Round Four of January PPM Survey Released. The fourth of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s January 2022 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen’s January 2022 sweep covered January 6 – February 2. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways for this group of markets. In the Raleigh market, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WTKK-FM jumps 1.1 shares for a 7.4 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) finish and the #3 rank in the market, while Curtis Media Group’s crosstown news/talk WPTF tacks on nine-tenths for a 3.3 share finish good for the #11 rank. Emmis Communications’ news/talk WIBC-FM, Indianapolis recaptures 1.8 shares to wrap the survey with a 10.6 share and climbs to the #2 rank. In Milwaukee, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WISN-AM leaps to #1 after adding nine-tenths for a 9.7 share finish, while Good Karma Brands’ crosstown news/talk WTMJ-AM rises half a share for a 7.2 share finish good for the #4 rank. Cumulus Media’s news/talk WWTN-FM, Nashville tacks on eight-tenths to put up a 6.9 share that gives it the #2 rank in the market. Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM, Jacksonville is back at #1 after shooting up 2.6 shares for a 9.6 share finish. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways for this group of markets (as well as the first three rounds) here.

 

Nielsen Holdings Reports 2021 Q4 Revenue Up 2.5%; Full Year Revenue Rises 4.1%. Ratings giant Nielsen Holdings plc reports its financial data from the fourth quarter of 2021 and for the full year, revealing Q4 revenue was $894 million, an increase of 2.5% over the same period in 2020. Revenue of the whole of 2021 was $3.5 billion, a year-over-year increase of 4.1%. For the full year of 2021, Nielsen reports net income from continuing operations attributable to Nielsen shareholders was $551 million, compared to $191 million in 2020. Nielsen CEO David Kenny says, “We delivered strong results in 2021. We successfully sold Nielsen Global Connect, hit significant product milestones, and exceeded all of our original 2021 guidance metrics despite facing some unanticipated challenges. We are strongly positioned within the media ecosystem, with growing relevance as audiences shift to streaming, and we are delivering value to clients across our three essential solutions. We made measurable progress toward becoming a digital-first company, and our strategy aligns with where growth in the industry is coming from. We are piloting the first iteration of Nielsen ONE, which we launched in January, with a representative group of clients across media buyers and sellers and feedback has been positive. We also made progress on strengthening our balance sheet, reducing our net debt leverage by over half a turn in 2021. We now have the flexibility to return more capital to shareholders while continuing to invest in organic growth initiatives and pursue strategic, tuck-in M&A. Our $1 billion share repurchase authorization reflects our board’s confidence in both our short and long-term growth prospects and enables us to deliver value to our shareholders.” The company reports its financial position, stating, “As of December 31, 2021, the company had cash and cash equivalents of $380 million and gross debt of $5.626 billion, resulting in net debt of $5.246 billion.”

 

Russian Ukraine Invasion, COVID-19, The Economy/Financial Markets, CPAC 2022/Trump & the GOP, William Barr Book, State of the Union, and SAG Awards Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The Russian invasion of the Ukraine and the domestic and global responses to Vladimir Putin’s gambit; the falling rate of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., the relaxation of mask mandates, and the U.S. trucker convoys destined for Washington, DC; the state of the U.S. economy as the Ukraine invasion affects global markets, the ongoing inflation affecting consumer retail prices, and the financial markets activities; the weekend’s CPAC 2022 conference and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; former Attorney General William Barr’s new memoir containing criticism of Donald Trump is teased; anticipation of Tuesday’s State of the Union Address; and Sunday’s Screen Actors Guild 2022 awards ceremony were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

January 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

By Editor | by Editor

January 2022 PPM Data – Information for the January 2022 survey period has been released for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.

Nielsen Audio’s January 2022 sweep covered January 6 – February 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 “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 (6+).

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media-operated KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 3.9 – 4.4, +.5, seventh to eighth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” 1.4 – 2.0, +.6, #16 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas-owned KUT 7.3 – 6.8, -.5, third to second

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media-operated adult hits KBPA, first month, 7.4 – 8.7, +1.3

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: adult hits KBPA (+1.3)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KKMJ (-5.8)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 6.3 – 7.4, +1.1, fourth to third

Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” 2.4 – 3.3, +.9, #15 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 2.5 – 2.7, +.2, repeats at #13

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 6.9 – 9.6, +2.7, third to first

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WUNC, first month, 6.9 – 9.6, +2.7

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: public radio news/talk WUNC (+2.7)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WRAL (-3.3)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Emmis’ WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 8.8 – 10.6, +1.8, third to second

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Emmis-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” (Pacers) 4.0 – 4.6, +.6, seventh to eighth

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” flat at .9, locked at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 6.2 – 5.7, -.5, stays in fifth-place

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK, first month, 9.7 – 11.2 +1.5

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: news/talk WIBC (+1.8)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WYXB (-8.5)

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 8.8 – 9.7, +.9, fourth to first

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Bucks) 6.7 – 7.2, +.5, fifth to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Good Karma Brands’ WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” 1.3 – 1.8, +.5, #17 to #15

iHeartMedia-owned WRNW “97.3 The Game” 1.5 – 1.8, +.3, repeats at #15

Audacy’s WSSP “1250 AM The Fan” 1.1 – 1.2, +.1, stays at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 4.5 – 4.8, +.3, seventh to ninth

Number One 6+: news/talk WISN, first month, 8.8 – 9.7, +.9

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: country WMIL (+2.1)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WLDB (-4.1)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 6.1 – 6.9, +.8, third to second

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 1.7 – 2.6, +.9, #16 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” flat at 4.7, eighth to ninth

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) 1.3 – 1.1, -.2, repeats at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 4.9 – 6.6, +1.7, seventh to fourth

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult hits WCJK, first month, 6.7 – 7.2, +.5

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: public radio news/talk WPLN-FM (+1.7)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WJXA (-10.1)*

*Represents the largest “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 6.7 – 7.0, +.3, fifth to third

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” 1.1 – 0.7, -.4, #14 to #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Celtics and Bruins) 3.6 – 4.4, +.8, eighth to sixth

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 3.2 – 4.2, +1.0, ninth to seventh

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 2.2 – 2.8, +.6, remains at #10

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 2.2 – 2.8, +.6, continues tied with WGBH in tenth-place

Number One 6+: Hall Communications’ country WCTK, first month, 7.8 – 10.6, +2.8

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: country WCTK (+2.8)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WWLI (-8.2)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 1.5 – 2.3, +.8, #17 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group-owned WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.0 – 1.5, +.5, #20 to #17

Sinclair’s WTAR “Sports Radio 850” .4 – .6, +.2, #22 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, first month, 10.6 – 11.1, +.5

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: country WGH-FM (+1.7)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WWDE (-6.4)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 7.0 – 9.6, +2.6, third to first

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WOKV-AM “ESPN Jacksonville 690 AM” .4 – .9, +.5, locked at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT  2.8 – 3.4, +.6, repeats at #12

Number One 6+: news/talk WOKV-FM, first month, 7.0 – 9.6, +2.6

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: news/talk WOKV-FM (+2.6)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WEJZ (-7.2)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WJNO “News Radio 1290” 2.3 – 2.9, +.6, #11 to #8

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 1.5 – 1.7, +.2, #14 to #11

iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 1.1 – 1.7, +.6, #16 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” .8 – .6, -.2, #18 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 3.0 – 3.2, +.2, sixth to seventh

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF, first month, 7.7 – 9.1, +1.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: hot AC WRMF (+1.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WEAT (-4.6)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 4.0 – 6.5, +2.5, sixth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Curtis Media Group-owned WSJS & WPCM 600 AM & 920 AM” .4 – .6, +.2, repeats at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 3.3 – 4.0, +.7, ninth to eighth

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.7 – 1.8, +.1, #15 to #14

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WQMG, first month, 11.5 – 14.2, +2.7

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: urban AC WQMG (+2.7)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WMAG (-8.1)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.2 – 2.6, +.4, #13 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 4.4 – 4.7, +.3, seventh to eighth and WMFS’ internet stream .3 – .7, +.4, remains at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications’ WKNO 2.4 – 2.6, +.2, continues at #12

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO, first month, 11.3 – 14.1, +2.8

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO (+2.8)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WRVR (-8.4)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 5.2 – 5.3, +.1, remains in seventh-place

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” unchanged at .9, #14 to #15

WTIC-AM’s internet stream .5, #16; it was unlisted in “Holiday” 2021

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” .9 – 1.2, +.3, repeats at #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 6.9 – 8.6, +1.7, fourth to second

New England Public Media’s WFCR .4 – .5, +.1, steady at #16

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 23rd successive month, 18.6 – 11.6, -7.0

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WHCN (+3.0)**

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WRCH (-7.0)

**Represents the largest “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

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

Front Page News Industry News

Thursday, February 24, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

KOA’s Mid-Morning Host Ross Kaminsky is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. One of talk radio’s leading thinkers in the realm of economics and foreign policy, Ross Kaminsky – heard 9:00 am to 12:00 noon on iHeartMedia’s news/talk giant KOA, Denver – is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Kaminsky grew up as a Navy brat and has spent most of his adult life waving his hands and yelling on the market trading floors in Chicago after studying economics, foreign policy, and politics at Columbia University. In addition, he has been to over 60 countries which adds to his perspective on a wide range of talk topics. Harrison and Kaminsky discuss a variety of current topics including the Russia-Ukraine crisis, the pandemic, political correctness, education, the economy and the changing nature of communications media. To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here.

 

Cumulus Media Q4 2021 Revenue Rises 2.6%. Reporting its financial data for the fourth quarter of 2021 and for the whole of 2021, Cumulus Media Inc says Q4 net revenue was $252.3 million, an increase of 2.6% over the same period in 2020. Net income for the quarter was $17.6 million compared to the net loss of $249,000 posted in Q4 of 2020. For Cumulus, digital revenue was the savior in the fourth quarter. The company reports broadcast radio spot revenue of $121.8 million, down 4.8% from Q4 of 2020, and network revenue of $71.3 million, a year-over-year decrease of 1.8%. However, digital revenue was $35 million, an increase of 47.3% compared to Q4 of 2020. Looking at the whole of 2021, net revenue was $916.4 million, up 12.3% over the whole of 2020. Broadcast radio spot revenue was up 6.1% over 2020 and network revenue was up 8.5%. Digital revenue for 2021 was $126.8 million, an increase of 47.6% over 2020. Cumulus reports net income of $17.3 million for 2021 compared to the net loss of $59.7 million it posted for 2020. Cumulus Media president and CEO Mary G. Berner says, “2021 was a year of tremendous progress and accomplishment for Cumulus. We not only achieved meaningful revenue growth in core radio, delivered substantial growth in digital, and greatly improved our operating leverage through material fixed cost reductions, but we also further and significantly de-levered our balance sheet, and executed many initiatives which bolstered our position as a true audio-first media company. As we carry this momentum into 2022, we continue to see significant upside with multiple pathways to enhance shareholder value.”

 

Round Two of January 2022 PPMs Released. The second of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s January 2022 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen’s January 2022 sweep covered January 6 – February 2. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways for this group of markets. In Washington, Hubbard Radio’s all-news WTOP jumps 1.6 shares to finish with an 8.0 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) and rises to the #2 rank, while Cumulus Media’s crosstown news/talk WMAL-FM is flat with a 3.6 share and remains ranked #12. Bonneville’s KIRO-FM, Seattle adds three-tenths to finish with a 6.9 share and jumps to #1, while Lotus Communications’ crosstown all-news KNWN-AM/FM dips three-tenths and falls to the #5 rank with a 5.2 share. In Phoenix, iHeartMedia’s news/talk KFYI shoots up 2.3 shares for a 5.7 share finish and the #3 rank as Bonneville’s crosstown news/talk KTAR-FM is up a half share and climbs to the #13 rank. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways for this group of markets (and yesterday’s round one) here.

 

 

Jim Bohannon Emcees Polar Plunge. Pictured above is Westwood One late night talk host Jim Bohannon serving as master of ceremonies for the annual Polar Plunge fundraiser for the Special Olympics in Westminster, South Carolina on Saturday, February 19. Bohannon said, “Air temperature? 44 degrees. Water temperature? We were afraid to check.”

 

TALKERS News Notes. As the conflict in the Ukraine escalates, ABC News Radio correspondent and anchor Aaron Katersky (pictured here in Lviv, Ukraine) continues to report from inside Ukraine where he’s been for the past week. Katersky also leads ABC News Radio’s live anchored coverage and is sharing his insights directly with affiliates through more than two dozen daily two-ways. Katersky’s experience as a war correspondent in network radio goes back to 2003 when he embedded with the Marines in Iraq…..At CBS News Radio, foreign correspondent Charlie D’Agata co-anchored from the Ukraine “The World News Roundup” with Steve Kathan in New York. CBS says that today’s broadcast was eerily reminiscent of the origin of “The World News Roundup” which debuted 84 years ago when Nazi Germany annexed Austria in March of 1938. The broadcast, which was hosted by Robert Trout, first gave the world the voices of Edward R. Murrow and William Shirer, pioneering a top-of-the-hour news format that linked foreign correspondents around the globe with an anchor in New York City, giving listeners first-hand reporting from CBS journalists who were, and continue to be, eyewitnesses to the most important events in world history…..The Talk Shows USA-syndicated radio program “The Money Pit Home Improvement Show” adds new affiliate stations as WSGW, Saginaw, Michigan; WORK, Canandaigua, New York; WTSN, Dover, New Hampshire; and WKYX, Paducah, Kentucky pick up the program for their lineups. Show host Tom Kraeutler says, “Across the country, home improvement projects have increased as more people work from home and stay at home. The continued growth of our affiliates shows that now more than ever, ‘The Money Pit’ is a great tool for advertisers to reach active, engaged homeowners.”

 

WRVA, Richmond Host Jeff Katz Helps Raise Funds for Virginia Charity. Talk radio host Jeff Katz – pictured here his with daughter Julia – just finished a 36-hour fundraising blitz for The Friendship Circle of Virginia that pairs typically developing teens with disabled children. Katz says, “It’s always believed that the special needs kiddos will get the most out of the friendship that develops but the typically developing teens are the ones who always rave about the experience. These friendships last for lifetimes!” Katz says the charity does one fundraiser per year and his team – “Julia’s Jewels” was the big “winner” this year, setting a fundraising record of $21,351 in 36 hours.

 

GBH President Jonathan Abbott to Step Down at Year’s End. Longtime GBH president and CEO Jonathan Abbott announces he’ll step down from that post he’s held with the public media organization for 15 years at the end of 2022. GBH says that during his tenure, Abbott “reimagined the ways that GBH, the largest producer for PBS, creates and distributes content locally and nationally across new platforms, offering greater access to its award-winning journalism, educational and cultural programs for millions of Americans. He invested in public media’s essential role as a community resource, expanding coverage of local issues with the re-launch of GBH 89.7 as an audience-focused NPR news service.” Under Abbott’s leadership GBH has grown to encompass 10 digital and broadcast media channels and he’s grown the organization’s endowment from $63 million to $523 million. He comments, “The mission to share knowledge, inspire learning and strengthen community is why I’ve devoted my career to expanding the reach and impact of public media. There is no more exciting place to do this work than GBH. It has been my great privilege to work with an extraordinary group of talented and dedicated colleagues, supporting the creation of compelling, world class content and trusted journalism that helps us understand the critical issues of our times. I am grateful to our community for its enduring support of GBH and public media.”

 

Russia Invades Ukraine, Financial Markets/Inflation, COVID-19, Midterm Elections/Trump & the GOP, Trump Org Investigation, and Winter Weather Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (2/23). The Russian military begins its move into separatist regions of the Ukraine as Vladimir Putin warns the U.S. not to interfere and former President Donald Trump praises Putin as a “genius”; the world’s financial markets reel on the news of Russia’s invasion of the Ukraine and soaring retail prices for consumer goods and gasoline; the falling rate of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and the truckers’ “People’s Convoy” headed for Washington, DC; the battle for control of Congress in November’s midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the grand jury investigation into the Trump Organization stalls as two NYC prosecutors quit; and the frigid and snowy weather affecting much of the U.S. 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

Wednesday, February 23, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

iHeartMedia 2021 Fourth Quarter Revenue Up 14%. Reporting its financial results from the fourth quarter of 2021 and the year as a whole, iHeartMedia, Inc. says Q4 revenue was $1.06 billion, up 14% over the same period in 2020. Reporting by segment, iHeartMedia says its Digital Audio Group revenue was $273.2 million, up 59% over Q4 in 2020; Podcast Revenue was $96.6 million, an increase of 130% year over year; and Broadcast Radio revenue was $519.1 million, up 4.9%. Net income for Q4 of 2021 was $112 million compared to net income of $2.9 million in Q4 of 2020. For the whole of 2021, the company reports a net loss of $8.4 million compared to the net loss of $1.9 billion reported for all of 2020. iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman states, “We are pleased to report another strong quarter and to wrap up a very strong year, further evidence of our momentum and the continuing digital transformation of iHeartMedia into a data-led, digital business with important new platforms like podcasting built on the unparalleled scale and audience reach of our broadcast radio assets. We believe that this strong performance in Q4 and full year positions us well for continued growth in 2022.”

 

Audacy Q4 2021 Revenue Climbs 8%. The company reveals that net revenue for the fourth quarter of 2021 was $344.7 million, an increase of 8% over the same period in 2020, led by double digit growth in both digital and spot radio. Audacy reports that core spot revenue (local plus national excluding political) was $218.4 million, up 10% compared to the fourth quarter of 2020 while digital revenue was $68.1 million, up 16% year over year. Operating income for the quarter was $48.1 million, compared to an operating loss of $204.8 million in the fourth quarter of 2020. Audacy reports Q4 2021 net income of $21.4 million compared to the net loss of $162.3 million reported in Q4 2020. For the whole of 2021, Audacy reports a net loss of $3.6 million compared to the net loss of $242.2 million reported for all of 2020. President and CEO David J. Field states, “In 2021, we accelerated our organizational development through a number of important strategic acquisitions, organic growth initiatives, structural improvements, and content and senior talent additions. This was also the year in which we rebranded the company to reflect our evolution into a leading, multi-platform audio content and entertainment company with scaled audience reach and important leadership positions across the full spectrum of the dynamic, growing audio market. Our 2021 acquisitions of Podcorn and AmperWave, plus BetQL just prior to the start of the year, are important additions to our capabilities that will fuel accelerated growth and enhance how we serve our listeners and customers. Audacy today is well positioned to capitalize on the exciting growth opportunities within audio at the same time as we anticipate the continuing recovery of radio ad spending. We are off to a very good start to 2022 and our team is excited about the year ahead.”

 

Live From Donetsk. The Russia-Ukraine crisis has escalated to the major news/talk radio topic on the table triggering a scramble for hosts to sort out the facts from the fiction as a variety of perspectives – some quite controversial – are being aired out in the national conversation. WABC, New York all-night host Frank Morano provided the listeners of his program “The Other Side of Midnight” with something to think about early Monday morning (2/21) in terms of the “other side” of the story.  He conducted a long-distance, live phone interview with a man named Russell Bentley, an American expat and avowed communist who has lived in Donetsk for eight years after moving there to fight, alongside the separatists, against the Ukrainian government. Morano tells TALKERS, “I think Bentley did a good job not only describing what’s happening there with Russian troops being on the ground, but also explaining the mentality of how people there feel. I think it’s so unique compared to what folks are doing with this in talk radio. Russia’s recognition of Donetsk People’s Republic and Luhansk People’s Republic has drawn global condemnation, with the U.S. and several European countries agreeing to move quickly to respond with economic penalties. This was truly something different.” To listen to the entire interview, please click here.

 

Round One of January PPMs Released. The first of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s January 2022 PPM survey is 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 January 2022 sweep covered January 6 – February 2. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In New York City, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WOR rose seven-tenths to a 2.8 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) to finish ranked #13 while Red Apple Media’s crosstown news/talk WABC-AM/WLIR-FM also rose seven-tenths to finish with a 3.0 share good for the #12 rank in the market. Audacy’s all-news WBBM-AM/WFCS-FM, Chicago is back in the #1 spot after adding a full share for a 5.7 share finish. Across town at Nexstar’s news/talk WGN-AM, a 1.7 share increase gives the station a 5.2 share finish good for the #4 rank in the market. After a series of declines, Cox Media Group’s news/talk WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta tacks on 1.1 shares for a 6.9 share finish that pushes it up to the #3 rank. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

 

 

WOR-AM, New York Turns 100. Pictured above is the staff of iHeartMedia’s news/talk WOR-AM, New York celebrating the station’s 100th anniversary on the air. It was on February 22, 1922 that the station first went on air and the celebration included on-air reminiscences from past WOR personalities including: John R. Gambling, George Meade, Joan Hamburg, Shelly Strickler, Bill Korbel, and Daria Dolan. Above are (from l-r): assistant program director Scott Lakefield, creative services director Howard Hoffman; morning co-host Len Berman, morning show executive producer Natalie Vacca, morning co-host Michael Riedel, midday host Mark Simone, and program director Tom Cuddy.

 

 

Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Broadcast from Mar-a-Lago. The Premiere Networks nationally syndicated talk program “The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show” did a live remote broadcast from The Mar-a-Lago Club resort in Palm Beach on Tuesday (2/22) during which former President Donald Trump joined the program for a full hour to talk about subjects including the current crisis in Ukraine, COVID mandates, Democratic contenders in 2024, the Canadian Trucker protests, his future political goals and more. Trump also complimented the duo on the success of their show, saying “Congratulations. You’re knocking it dead. And that’s good. Rush would be proud of you.”

 

Michael Harrison Discusses the Concept of the “Media Station” on New Podcast. TALKERS founder Michael Harrison presents a detailed explanation of the emerging concept he calls the “media station” in the debut installment of a new podcast titled, “Masters In Media,” hosted by Mark Goldman and Ryan McCormick of the firm, Goldman/McCormick Public Relations. Harrison explains the impact multimedia cross-platform branding is having on 20th century analog entities such as radio stations, TV stations, newspapers, magazines, movie theaters and record companies. He states, “All these different entities operated within their own lanes and were quite isolated from each other in terms of their mother platforms. Now there is no solitary mother platform for any media organization and companies cannot put all their ‘eggs in one basket.’ Today’s radio station is actually a media station. So are today’s newspapers and the like. They are all in the business of producing and distributing audio, video, graphics, text, information and entertainment.” Harrison also discusses what it takes to make it these days as a radio talk show host. Don’t miss this! To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here.

 

TALKERS News Notes. Radio syndication pro Adam Wilbur is promoted to SVP of affilaites sales & operations at Compass Media Networks. Wilbur continues to be based out of the company’s Los Angeles office and continues to spearhead the company’s affiliate sales, affiliate marketing, affiliate technical operations, and select content relationships. He says, “This 13-year journey has been an incredible ride. Thank you to all the hosts, producers, colleagues, affiliates and potential affiliates that make each day unique and unpredictable. I love it.”…..CNN Audio expands its podcast programming with the upcoming debut of “Diversifying” on February 28. Fostering insightful discussions about how the financial system can work for us, instead of against us, host Delyanne Barros creates a welcome space for people of color, women, single households, and others who have traditionally been left out of conversations around personal finance. Throughout the series, Barros speaks with real people, as well as with money experts, who are faced with the challenge of balancing cultural expectations with their own financial needs. Whether that’s struggling to negotiate pay as a woman of color, or supporting one’s parents as they enter retirement, “Diversifying” offers listeners actionable steps toward better financial health, all while validating struggles with money, no matter what the starting point.

 

Ukraine Tensions, COVID-19, SCOTUS Trump Ruling, Midterm Elections/Trump & the GOP, Arbery Verdict/Floyd Case, Inflation/The Economy, and Winter Weather Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (2/22). The Western condemnation of Vladimir Putin’s Ukraine incursion after his recognition of separatist provinces; the slowing rate of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., Canada’s prosecution of trucker protesters, and threats of a trucker protest in Washington, DC; the Supreme Court rules against Donald Trump in his bid to keep his records from the January 6 committee; November’s midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the jury deliberates in the federal hate crime trial of the three men found guilty if killing Ahmaud Arbery; the soaring rate of inflation and the sliding financial markets; and the frigid winter weather affecting much of the U.S. were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

January 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

By Editor | by Editor

January 2022 PPM Data – Information for the January 2022 ratings period has been released for New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; San Francisco; Dallas; Houston; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario; San Jose; and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.

Nielsen Audio’s January 2022 sweep covered January 6 – February 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 “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 2.3 – 3.0, +.7, #16 to #12

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.1 – 2.8, +.7, #18 to #13

News: Audacy’s WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 4.4 – 4.3, -.1, fifth to seventh and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 2.6 – 2.8, +.2, steady at #13

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 3.0 – 3.8, +.8, tenth to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 2.7 – 3.5, +.8, #12 to #10

Number One 6+: Emmis urban AC WBLS, first month, 6.2 – 6.6, +.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase (Tie): sports talk WFAN and public radio news/talk WNYC-FM (+.8)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW (-5.2)

Note: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW had been #1 the past six months

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 3.0 – 3.7, +.7, eighth to seventh

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 3.1, #10

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 1.9 – 2.4, +.5, #19 to #15

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, seventh successive month, 13.4 – 6.3, -7.1

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies KRTH (+1.2)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KOST (-7.1)

Note: KNX-FM was unlisted in “Holiday” 2021, while KNX-AM was #11 (2.8); the latter is unlisted in January 2022.

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” (Blackhawks) 3.5 – 5.2, +1.7, seventh to fourth

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 5.6 – 5.7, +.1, third to first

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WSCR “670 The Score” (Bulls) 1.5 – 2.0, +.5, #23 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 4.8 – 5.3, +.5, fourth to third

Number One 6+ (Tie): news/talk WBBM-AM & WCFS, first month, 5.6 – 5.7, +.1, and iHeartMedia urban AC WVAZ, first month, 5.9 – 5.7, -.2

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: news/talk WGN (+1.7)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WLIT (-9.3)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.4 – 1.8, +.4, #22 to #17

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.7 – 7.1, +.4, third to second

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” 3.3 – 4.6, +1.3, seventh to fourth

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.’s KQED 7.9 – 8.5, +.6, second to first

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KQED, first month, 7.9 – 8.5, +.6

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: hot AC KLLC (+1.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KOIT-FM (-5.2)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.0 – 3.1, +.1, locked at #14

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” 1.6 – 2.1, +.5, #22 to #19

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) 2.6 – 3.7, +1.1, #16 to #7

Audacy-owned KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Cowboys) 2.4 – 2.6, +.2, repeats at #17

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting’s KERA 3.1 – 3.5, +.4, #13 to #12

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic rock KZPS, first month, 4.9 – 5.3, +.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: sports talk KTCK (+1.1)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KDGE (-6.3)

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” 4.2 – 4.7, +.5, seventh to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston-owned KUHF 2.1 – 2.2, +.1, #20 to #19

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, tenth consecutive month, 12.8 – 7.4, -5.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: CHR KRBE (+2.2)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KODA (-5.4)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 5.8 – 6.9, +1.1, fifth to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks) 2.3 – 2.4, +.1, #13 to #15

Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” 1.1 – 1.9, +.8, #22 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 2.2 – 2.8, +.6, #14 to #12

Number One 6+ (Tie); Cox Media Group urban AC WALR, first month, 7.4 – 7.1, -.3 and co-owned classic hits-oldies WSRV, first month, 7.3 – 7.1, -.2

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: CHR WWWQ (+1.7)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: contemporary Christian WFSH (-4.3)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 1.2 – 1.3, +.1, #19 to #20

In the Audacy cluster, WPHT “Talk Radio 1210” .9 – 1.3, +.4, #23 to #20 and WPHT’s internet stream, which posts an identical .9 – 1.3, +.4, #23 to #20

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 4.7 – 5.2, +.5, anchored in sixth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” 3.7 – 3.9, +.2, eighth to ninth

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers and Flyers) 1.6 – 3.1, +1.5, #17 to #11

WIP’s internet stream, .7 – 1.9, +1.2, #25 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 5.9 – 7.4, +1.5, fourth to second

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group rock WMMR, first month, 7.1 – 7.6, +.5

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: country WXTU (+2.4)*

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WBEB (-9.6)**

*Represents the largest “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

**Represents the largest “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 1.8, #15

News: Audacy’s WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 2.7 – 3.5, +.8, #13 to #5 and cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 3.1 – 3.0, -.1, repeats at #8

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 3.1 – 3.5, +.4, eighth to fifth

Emmis’ WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” 1.2 – 1.3, +.1, #22 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM, first month, 7.5 – 7.4, -.1

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: rock WWSK (+1.0)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: hot AC WALK-FM (-4.7)

Note: WABC-AM & WLIR-FM was unlisted in Long Island’s “Holiday” 2021 sweep.

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC .2 – .3, +.1, #22 to #15

San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, flat at .3, #21 to #15

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, first month, 6.6 – 8.4, +1.8

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies KOLA (+1.8)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: country KFRG (-.9)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KGO “810 AM” 1.4 – 2.0, +.6, #16 to #11 and cluster-mate KSFO “Talk Radio 560” .7 – 1.4, +.7, #23 to #15

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” unchanged at 5.4, continues at #4

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” 2.4 – 3.5,+1.1, #11 to #8

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” flat at .9, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Bonneville classic rock KUFX first month 5.4 – 6.0, +.6

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase (Tie): country KRTY and regional Mexican KSOL (+1.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease adult contemporary KOIT-FM (-6.2)

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 4.9 – 5.9, +1.0, seventh to second

News: In the Audacy cluster, WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 1.6 – 1.9, +.3, #19 to #12; WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” flat at 1.1, #22 to #16; and WINS’ internet stream .4, #20

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets) 2.0 – 2.9, +.9, #16 to #10

Emmis’ WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” 1.5 – 1.0, -.5, #20 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Spanish Broadcasting System Spanish tropical WSKQ, first month, 6.6 – 6.0, -.6

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Increase: rhythmic CHR WQHT (+1.3)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2021 – January 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WMGQ (-2.8)

Note: WINS’ internet stream was unlisted in “Holiday” 2021.

 

Up next: January 2022 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

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

Front Page News Industry News

Monday, January 31, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Monday Memo: Talk Radio 101 – LISTEN. “Streaming has music radio on its heels, because,” in consultant Holland Cooke’s view, “The Sentence Never Spoken is ‘Alexa, please play six commercials.’” Yet Cooke warns that “talkers should avoid taking false comfort that we’re less vulnerable to digital competitors, because people are using social media to talk to each other without us.” In this week’s column, HC details techniques to engage callers. Read it here.

 

Pending Business: It’s a Matter of Trust. Radio sales pro Steve Lapa says that it’s not unusual for news/talk radio sellers to unwittingly overlook the importance of the trust and credibility that their station’s hosts have engendered with their listeners. Too often, this important quality that’s not easy to match is left out of proposals for one reason or another. Read his column here.

Adriana Rizzo Named SVP of Consumer Marketing for Audacy. Marketing pro Adriana Rizzo joins Audacy as SVP of consumer marketing, effective January 31. In this role, Rizzo will lead the company’s audience growth initiatives across brand strategy, creative, messaging, media planning and attribution, while also managing the company’s Alchemy function, focused on the strategic integration of exclusive content and programming to Audacy’s over 200 million listeners. Audacy chief marketing officer Paul Suchman says, “We’re thrilled to have Adriana join our growing team. Her hire underscores our commitment to world-class marketing and our vision to become the audio platform of choice for consumers. The timing of Adriana’s hire is well aligned with our deep investments in technology and our future-proofed digital platform. Adriana will be a key partner to our business lines and to our marketing leads across broadcast, digital, sports betting and podcasting.” Rizzo was most recently with Discovery and launched streaming service Discovery+. She’s also served with ESPN. She comments, “I’m very excited to be joining Audacy at such an important and strategic time for the company and the industry. I look forward to working closely with this talented team and helping Audacy achieve new heights.”

After YouTube Snub, Heidi Harris Launches Vimeo Show. Twenty-four-year veteran Las Vegas-based radio talk show host Heidi Harris, currently heard at “97.1 FM Talk St. Louis” (KFTK-FM), is another conservative commentator recently banned from YouTube because of political content that the mega-platform says doesn’t meet its standards. In response, she has launched a new channel on Vimeo which will feature her daily “Headlines with Heidi” program. TALKERS founder Michael Harrison served as her first guest. Harris and Harrison discussed the current Big Tech censorship controversy as well as a number of “behind-the-scenes” talk media issues. To see the program, please click here.

2022 iHeartRadio Podcast Awards Take Place Virtually on Thursday. A number of celebrities will make guest appearances on this Thursday’s 2022 iHeartRadio Podcast Awards. The program was originally to take place live at the iHeartRadio Theater in Los Angeles but will now happen virtually at 9:00 pm ET on February 3 streaming on iHeartRadio’s YouTube channel and Facebook page as well as broadcast across select iHeartMedia radio stations nationwide. iHeartMedia says stars appearing include: Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes and Will Arnett, Martha Stewart, Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, Paris Hilton, Shonda Rhimes, Will Ferrell, Wilmer Valderrama, and many more. While winners from most categories will be decided by a panel of industry leaders and creatives, the Podcast of the Year award is decided by social voting on Twitter. The nominees for Podcast of the Year are: “Code Switch,” “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend,” “Crime Junkie,” “Louder Than a Riot,” “Office Ladies,” “SmartLess,” “Stuff You Should Know,” “The Daily,” “The Midnight Miracle” and “You’re Wrong About.”

Round Four of Holiday PPM Ratings Released. The fourth and final round of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s Holiday PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen’s Holiday 2021 sweep covered December 9 – January 5. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. Due to holiday listening habits influenced by Christmas music, spoken-word stations often lose share during this period, but not all stations saw losses this time around. In Indianapolis, Emmis Communications’ news/talk WIBC-FM adds seven-tenths for an 8.8 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) but remains ranked #3 in the market. Cumulus Media’s WWTN-FM, Nashville “SuperTalk 99.7” is up eight-tenths for a 6.1 share finish and climbs from the #8 rank to #3. In Providence, Cumulus Media news/talk WPRO-AM/WEAN-FM rises nine-tenths to a 6.7 share but is still ranked #5 in the market. iHeartMedia’s WJNO, West Palm Beach adds a half share for a 2.3 share finish good for the #11 rank. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets (as well as the first three rounds) here.

Ukraine Tensions/Sanctions, COVID-19, U.S.-China Relations/Olympics, Midterm Elections/Trump & the GOP, Spotify’s COVID Issue, Supreme Court Opening, North Korea Missile Test, and NFL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories over the Weekend. Russia’s military build-up at the Ukraine border and the West’s threatened sanctions if Russia invades; the rate of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and abroad, and mask & vaccine mandates; the Biden Administration’s relations with China and the Beijing Winter Olympics; the battle for control of Congress in the November midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence on the GOP; Spotify deals with artists pulling their music in response to what they term medical misinformation being spread on the “Joe Rogan Experience”; the controversy over President Joe Biden’s promise to nominate a Black woman to fill retiring Justice Stephen Breyer’s Supreme Court seat; North Korea tests a new missile causing concern over its military ambitions; and the Cincinnati Bengals will face the Los Angeles Rams in the Super Bowl after Sunday’s games 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

Friday, January 28, 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 magazine, is now posted. This new episode titled, “Back in the USSR,” looks back at this past week of 1/24 to 1/28. The program features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, TALKERS executive editor, John Batchelor, talk show host, CBS Radio; Harry Hurley, talk show host, WPG, Atlantic City; Victoria Jones, executive director/commentator, DC Radio Company; Josh Hammer, opinion editor/podcaster, Newsweek; and Nanette Holt, reporter, The Epoch Times. 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; WVLY, Wheeling, WV; WTRW-FM, Scranton/Wilkes Barre, PA; WVOX, Westchester, NY; KBDT, Dallas; KQSP, Minneapolis; KBKW, Aberdeen, WA; 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 magazine 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.

Bonneville Names Sean Thompson PD for ‘Arizona Sports.’ Sports radio pro Sean Thompson is named program director for Bonneville’s Phoenix sports talk properties, KMVP-FM “98.7 FM Arizona Sports” and KTAR-AM “ESPN 620 Phoenix.” Thompson comes to Bonneville from his most recent position as assistant brand manager for Audacy’s WZGC-FM, Atlanta “92.9 FM The Game.” Thompson comments, “It was going to need to be the ultimate opportunity for me to leave ‘The Game’ and I’ve found it. With the talented talk shows, flagship relationships with all the local teams and full commitment to digital content, the potential for the ‘Arizona Sports’ super brand is limitless.” Bonneville Phoenix SVP and market manager Ryan Hatch adds, “Sean is the perfect person to lead ‘Arizona’s Sports Station’ to new heights. He is strategic, creative, collaborative and we can’t wait to see what he will do to continue to grow the ‘Arizona Sports’ brand on all channels.” Thompson takes over for Rod Lakin, who assumed the brand manager post with Audacy’s sports talk WIP, Philadelphia in October.

KFI-AM Launches Weekly Show with LA County Sheriff Alex Villanueva. Los Angeles news/talk KFI-AM announces the return of the weekly radio program, “Live and Unscripted with LA County Sheriff Alex Villanueva.” The iHeartMedia station will air the program on Sundays from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm from its studios in Burbank. The station says, “The new weekly program is back by popular demand and is hosted by Alex Villanueva, who runs the country’s largest sheriff’s department. Every Sunday, listeners can join the show to hear the hottest topics on the mind of LA County residents: homelessness, crime, corruption and politics. Villanueva will also feature guests who will explain the inner workings of the various bureaus in his department.” Station program director Robin Bertolucci says, “Sheriff Alex Villanueva is a straight talker and KFI has always welcomed bold talk.”

Round Three of Holiday PPMs Released. The third of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s Holiday 2021 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus. Nielsen’s Holiday 2021 sweep covered December 9 – January 5. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. Radio listening patterns change during this period due to the seasonal implementation of Christmas music but some spoken-word stations were able to buck that trend. Audacy’s news/talk KDKA-AM, Pittsburgh tacked on seven-tenths for a 4.4 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) and rose to the #8 rank. iHeartMedia’s news/talk WTAM, Cleveland was up four-tenths for a 4.4 share and climbed to the #7 rank. In Kansas City, Audacy’s KMBZ-FM rose four-tenths for a 5.0 share finish good for the #5 rank in the market. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets (as well and the first two rounds) here.

Audacy Partners with Podchaser for Podcasting Insight. A new partnership between Audacy and Podchaser will allow Audacy to use Podchaser’s metadata and podcast technology capabilities to gain insight into the performance and influence of podcasts across the entire industry, enhancing Audacy’s value proposition for agencies and clients. Audacy EVP of digital sales Ken Lagana says, “As Audacy continues to build out our industry leading, measurement and attribution suite, we are excited to partner with Podchaser to help our client and agency partners continue to make smart decisions routed in data when placing their podcast buys with Audacy.”

WABC, New York Honors Memory of Fallen NYPD Officer Jason Rivera. New York City news/talk “77 WABC Radio” is honoring fallen New York City Police Officer Jason Rivera today (1/28), the day of his funeral. The station is asking its listeners to recognize Rivera’s service. “On behalf of John Catsimatidis, chairman and chief executive officer of The Red Apple Group and subsidiary Red Apple Media and the entire staff of 77 WABC, we encourage you to join us and support a hometown hero at the NYPD by ‘standing with us’ on Friday, January 28 at 9:00 am EST to honor the life of Jason Rivera. 77 WABC will pause the airwaves and take a moment of silence to show support and ask ALL of New York City and America to STAND, outside your home, inside your home, place of work or school. All of our communities are deeply saddened and affected, and we are asking to show your support.” 77 WABC and One Times Square have collaborated to display the image of Jason Rivera on the side of their building at 8:58 am, 9:15 am, 9:30 am, 9:45 am. The station is also distributing free “Back The Blue” pins to wear to show support for police officers via its website.

TALKERS News Notes. Seattle’s all-news KOMO-AM/FM “KOMO News” is losing its heritage call letters and the “KOMO News” slogan as part of the deal that transferred the station from Sinclair Broadcast Group to Lotus Broadcasting. The Seattle Times reports that since the deal allows Sinclair to keep the KOMO calls off the stations, it will take up the new calls KNWN for “Northwest News.” Station PD and afternoon personality Rick Van Cise tells the paper, “There won’t be any difference in the sound of the radio station. The personalities, the reporters are all staying the same.”…..Austin public radio outlet KUT-FM names Jerry Quijano permanent host of the “All Things Considered” host seat at the NPR member station. Quijano began his career with KUT in 2017 as a weekend local host. After graduating from Texas A&M University-San Antonio and participating in NPR’s Next-Generation Radio project, he started full-time the following year…..“Radiolab” founder Jad Abumrad announces he’s leaving the podcast he founded almost 20 years ago and to honor and celebrate him, WNYC is releasing the very first episode of the show that was broadcast only once on WNYC’s AM station in 2002 and then locked away in the vault. WNYC says it had to literally digitize the show from several CDs to get it on air. Speaking about his departure, Abumrad says, “For the last few years – since 2016 really – I’ve told myself that there’d come a point when the team would be ‘ready’ for me to leave. When they might even need me to. I wasn’t sure when that would be or how I’d know, but I made a pact with myself to stay watchful, to create space rather than filling it, and to listen rather than talk. We’re at that point.”

COVID-19 Vaccines, Masks & Mandates Top News/Talk Story for Week of January 24-28. Controversy surrounding COVID-19 vaccine and mask mandates and the rate of infection from the Omicron variant in the U.S. and around the world came together as the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the global tensions over the Russian military build-up at the Ukraine border, tied with relations between the U.S. and China. Coming in at #3 this week was the announced retirement of Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer and speculation about President Joe Biden’s potential nominee. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top 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

Thursday, January 27, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Newsweek Opinion Editor Josh Hammer is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. The opinion editor of Newsweek, Josh Hammer, is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Hammer is also a podcaster, constitutional lawyer, and rising young conservative thought-leader. Newsweek is planning the launch of his new podcast, “The Josh Hammer Show” in February. The one-hour podcast will conform to the format clock of a terrestrial radio show making it conveniently translatable as a syndicated product. Harrison describes Hammer as follows: “At 32 years of age, he has already made a huge splash within the print news community as an editor and political commentator reflective of a young conservative perspective. I suspect he will be doing the same in talk media via radio and podcasting.” Harrison continues, “With such an emphasis being placed on lowering the demos, talk media practitioners – especially conservatives – should hear what he has to say.” Hammer focuses on conservative intellectual trends, contemporary domestic and foreign policy debates, constitutional and legal issues, and the intersection of law, politics and culture. His pieces have appeared in a number of major publications including the Los Angeles Times, the New York Post and many others. Harrison and Hammer take a deep-dive into the future of print versus digital, the legal complications of updating Section 230 and holding Big Tech accountable for the control they have seized over the public square, as well as the schism between traditional conservative politics and a viable next-gen approach. They discuss the impact and future of Donald Trump within the GOP and Newsweek’s strategy to appeal to a readership that spans the political spectrum. To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here.

Dan Bongino Booted from YouTube; Focuses His Content on Rumble. After violating the terms of his weeklong suspension from YouTube, Westwood One nationally syndicated talk host Dan Bongino has been permanently banned from the social media video channel. Bongino shared a video on his website in which he says that he was suspended for saying nothing different than what Dr. Tony Fauci told “60 Minutes” in a March 2020 interview in which he said there’s no need for people to be walking around wearing masks because it’s not providing the protection that people think it is. Bongino questions why he’s being banned but Fauci is not. Bongino’s violation of the suspension came after he tried to post a video explaining to his fans why he’s leaving YouTube and will put all of his content on Rumble. Bongino says he had 871,000 YouTube subscribers and says he has more than 2 million subscribers on the Rumble channel.

Former Florida Sports Talk Host ‘Big Joe’ Ellicott to Cooperate with Feds’ Investigation of Rep. Matt Gaetz. According to a report by CNN, Joseph “Big Joe” Ellicott has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and distribution of a controlled substance (Adderall) and has agreed to cooperate with the U.S. Justice Department’s investigation into allegations that U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) had sexual contact with a minor. Ellicott previously worked for Star Over Orlando at sports talk WRSO “CBS Sports Radio Orlando” on the “Bauman and Big Joe” program. CNN reports that Ellicott pleaded guilty to the charges that stemmed from “a bribery scheme between an unnamed contractor and an unnamed elected government official. Ellicott delivered $6,000 cash from the contractor to the government official in 2017.” Other media sources are concluding that the unnamed elected government official is his friend Joel Greenberg, a former confidant of Gaetz’s who is also cooperating with investigators in the Gaetz case.

Round Two of Holiday 2021 PPMs Released. The second of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s Holiday 2021 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen’s Holiday 2021 sweep covered December 9 – January 5. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. Although the Holiday PPM survey usually reveals listening patterns skewed by stations breaking format to air Christmas music, some spoken-word stations were able to avoid ratings declines. Bonneville’s news/talk KIRO-FM, Seattle was steady with a 6.6 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) that kept it in the #2 rank. Lotus Communications’ crosstown all-news KOMO-AM/FM rose two-tenths for a 5.5 share finish and climbed to the #3 rank. Audacy’s news/talk WCCO-AM, Minneapolis was up seven-tenths for a 5.2 share finish good for the #6 rank in the market. iHeartMedia’s news/talk KOA, Denver added nine-tenths to wrap the survey with a 3.8 share and climbed to the #8 rank. You can see all of Mike Kinosian’s Ratings Takeways from this group of markets (as well as round one) here.

Religious Broadcasters Hope Media Group and WAY Media to Merge. Religious broadcasting companies Hope Media Group and WAY Media announce their intention to merge into one media organization. The formal merger is expected to close by later this year pending FCC approval. The new Christian media organization will be headquartered in Houston and will operate under the name Hope Media Group. Hope Media Group was founded 40 years ago with radio station KSBJ-FM, Houston. WAY Media was formed 35 years ago with WAYJ-FM, Fort Myers. The companies say this is a merger of equals and a cash-free transaction that received a unanimous vote from both boards of directors. Currently, Hope Media Group is a family of media brands that include Houston-focused KSBJ, the brand-new Spanish Christian “Vida Unida,” digital content outlets NGEN Radio (Christian hip-hop and pop), Hope On Demand and Amen: The Prayer App, plus a concert and event brand, Special Events. WAY Media owns and operates a national network of more than 20 “WayFM” stations in markets that include Dallas-Fort Worth, Denver, Portland, Nashville, and South Florida plus more than 30 translators from Florida to Washington State, in addition to digital content outlets.

TALKERS News Notes. Streaming audio service TuneIn announces a partnership with Estrella Media to bring its content to the TuneIn platform. In addition, TuneIn has partnered with Grupo Fórmula to bring its Spanish-language entertainment and news content to the platform. TuneIn CEO Richard Stern states, “Both Estrella Media and Grupo Fórmula are market leaders in Spanish-language entertainment and news radio content. We are extremely pleased to be expanding our Spanish-language offerings to a new generation of Latin radio fans and listeners around the world through the TuneIn platform. We’re also thrilled to help Estrella Media’s local stations increase monetization outside of their local markets as an added benefit of our partnership.”…..The Luminary original podcast, “The Roxane Gay Agenda,” launches with writer Dr. Roxane Gay as host and welcoming The New York Times writer Tressie McMillan Cottom and acclaimed author Terry McMillan as her first guests. The program is produced in partnership with iHeartMedia.

Stephen Breyer to Retire, Ukraine Tensions, COVID-19, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, Financial Markets/Inflation/Crypto Plunge, Urban Violent Crime Spike, and the Beijing Olympics Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/26). News of Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer’s retirement and President Joe Biden’s possible nominations; the ongoing tensions between Vladimir Putin and the West over Russia’s military build-up at the Ukraine border; the Omicron variant infection rate and legal battles over mask & vaccine mandates; fight to control Congress in this November’s midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the turbulent financial markets, the high retail and oil prices and the plummet in cryptocurrency value; the blowback against liberal law & order polices as violent crime in America’s major cities surges; and the Beijing Olympics 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

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

By Editor | by Editor

Darren Moore Named Vice President/General Manager for Cox Media Group Ohio. Television sales executive Darren Moore is named vice president and general manager for Cox Media Group Ohio that includes heritage news/talk WHIO-AM/FM, two music formatted stations and WHIO-TV. Moore will oversee all operations at the outlets including news, programming, sales, digital, engineering, production and community affairs. Moore joined CMG 26 years ago as an intern for WPXI-TV, Pittsburgh. He served with WAXN-TV, Charlotte before returning to CMG Pittsburgh where he served in various sales management roles.  CMG EVP of Television Paul Curran says, “Darren’s passion for people, the broadcasting industry and CMG is infectious and inspiring. His strong track record of forging internal and external relationships will make a positive impact on our Dayton operations and in the Dayton community. I look forward to watching him excel in this new role as our approach to broadcasting in Dayton continues to evolve.” Moore comments, “I am honored to join the outstanding broadcasters at CMG Ohio, home to some of the most iconic TV and radio brands in the entire industry. I can’t wait to start working with the Dayton team, further enhancing our award-winning brands, serving our customers and viewers, and partnering with the local Miami Valley community.”

Steve Moore Promoted to OM for Audacy St. Louis. Programming pro Steve Moore is promoted to operations manager for Audacy St. Louis. In this role, Moore will oversee the markets’ six brands, including heritage news/talk KMOX-AM and news/talk KFTK-FM and its four music formatted sister stations. Audacy St. Louis VP and market manager Becky Domyan says, “I am beyond delighted to have Steve ascend into this new role. He has been so instrumental in building operational alignment, collaboration, and synergy across our St. Louis footprint. I am looking forward to Steve helping us continue to grow our incredible brands.” Moore comments, “I couldn’t be more excited for this new opportunity. I appreciate the trust that Becky Domyan and Audacy have shown me and I’m looking forward to working more closely with Derrick, Leo and the talented broadcasters on these incredible music stations.”

FOXNews.com Tops in Multiplatform Minutes in 2021. According to data from Comscore, FOX News Media’s FOXNews.com finished 2021 as “the top-performing news brand in the competitive set, delivering 38 billion total multiplatform minutes… FOXNews.com also toppled nearly every news organization in the competitive set, outpacing NYTimes.com and WashingtonPost.com in all categories for the entire year.” In its head-to-head battle with CNN.com, FOXNews.com had 37.8 billion multiplatform total minutes compared to CNN.com’s 35.5 billion. CNN.com topped FOXNews.com in the multiplatform total views metric (20.3 billion versus 18.4 billion) and in the average monthly multiplatform unique visitors metric (139 million versus 86 million). FOX News says 2021 marked its highest non-election year on record in social engagement. The digital network hit a new high in Instagram interactions, reaching over 286 million, its best year to date. 2021 also was a record year for the highest amount of video views ever for FOX News, driving nearly 4 billion video views across YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook. The network saw increases of nearly 10% in YouTube Video Views versus the prior year, driving slightly over 3 billion views.

Round One of Holiday PPMs Released. The first of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s Holiday 2021 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 Holiday 2021 sweep covered December 9 – January 5. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. Nielsen’s annual Holiday PPM survey is traditionally not good to spoken word radio stations as so much listening is attributed to music outlets playing Christmas music. Bucking the trend, both of Audacy’s New York all-news stations were up compared to the December survey. WINS added six-tenths to finish with a 4.4 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) and rose to the #5 rank while WCBS-AM added four-tenths for a 2.6 share finish good for the #13 rank. In Dallas, Cumulus Media’s news/talk WBAP-AM tacked on two-tenths for a 3.0 share but remained in the #14 rank. Cox Media Group’s news/talk WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta dipped eight-tenths to a 5.8 share and sliding to the #5 rank. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

Wendy Bell Gets Weekend Show on Newsmax. Longtime Pittsburgh television and radio personality Wendy Bell is joining Newsmax for a weekend program titled “Wendy Bell Common Sense.” The program will debut this Saturday (1/29) at 4:30 pm ET and “will examine the news of the day with a lively approach to national issues.” (It will air again on Sundays at 3:30 PM ET.) Bell says, “People are hungry for common sense in this country, and that’s what this new program is about. Telling the truth, having great conversations, talking about what really matters. It’s going to be outstanding.” Bell also hosts a syndicated talk radio program that airs live from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon ET. Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy comments, “Wendy Bell has had a remarkable career as a television journalist and radio host, and throughout it all has been an advocate of common sense and American values. We are glad to have her on the Newsmax team.”

Salem Media Group Names Ron DeSantis ‘Culture Warrior of the Year.’ Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is named “2021 Salem Culture Warrior of the Year” by Salem Media Group. The honor is the result of voting by Salem listeners and DeSantis received 52% of the vote among the six finalists. Salem listeners were given the chance to nominate anyone who fits the category. Salem SVP of spoken word Phil Boyce says, “Governor DeSantis is well deserving of this honor, and it proves how strong he is not only in Florida, but also across the country. Last year this award was given to Candace Owens, so both honorees are well deserving of the respect and admiration of the Salem audience across the country.”

MIW Offers ‘Understanding Broadcast Law’ Program. The Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio organization – dedicated to the advancement of female leadership in radio broadcasting – announces a new career enhancing program titled, “Understanding Broadcast Law,” sponsored by Fletcher, Heald & Hildreth Law, PLC.  The “Understanding Broadcast Law” program is built to clarify the numerous legal issues inherent to the radio business. In addition to underwriting the program, which runs throughout 2022, Fletcher, Heald & Hildreth partners Frank Montero and Kathleen Victory and their team will host a series of free and on-demand videos dedicated to answering questions and providing practical and applicable information as it pertains to radio law. From EEO to FCC license renewals and contracts, to conversations with corporate lawyers, each unique and informative video will be easily accessible on a variety of platforms. MIW board president Ruth Presslaff says, “Knowledge is power, and the opportunity to empower more women by demystifying legal issues is huge. We are beyond grateful for Fletcher, Heald and Hildreth’s sponsorship of this important series. Frank and his team are providing an invaluable opportunity to the MIW community and the industry.” To ensure that these instructive videos focus on areas of highest need and priority, MIW is asking for feedback from interested participants. They have created a survey that you can take here.

WhyHunger ‘Hungerthon’ Raises $920,000 from Holiday Campaign. The 36th annual Hungerthon campaign raised more than $920,000 “to support true solutions to hunger and build social justice for all.” The organization WhyHunger partnered with Audacy New York, iHeartMedia New York and SiriusXM to engage listeners and raise funds. Celebrity supporters like vitafusion Gummy Vitamins ambassador Tiffany Haddish, Yoko Ono Lennon and Bruce Springsteen lent their voices to the issue. The radio partners hosted live broadcasts featuring exclusive interviews on topics such as hunger and health, the root causes of hunger, women in food justice and COVID-19’s impact on hunger, while raising funds through auction items, donation drives and social media engagement. The Audacy New York stations – including sports talk WFAN, all-newsers WINS and WCBS-AM – hosted a radiothon on November 23 raising more than $400,000. Items donated for auction included a Bruce Springsteen autographed guitar, a Bob Weir autographed guitar, a chance to sit in on WFAN’s “Boomer & Gio” show, and more.

Broadcasters Foundation of America Receives Top Score from Charity Navigator. The Broadcasters Foundation of America proudly announces it has achieved a rating of 100 from Charity Navigator, the world’s largest and most trusted nonprofit evaluator. The evaluation process takes place over a seven-year period and uses Charity Navigator’s Encompass Rating System. The Broadcasters Foundation received a score of 100 in finance & accountability, reflecting its solid financial health (stability, efficiency, and sustainability) and commitment to governance practices and policies. In addition, the Broadcasters Foundation also received full credit at 72% for its Program Expense Ratio, which measures the percent of total expenses spent on the programs and services it exists to deliver. BFoA co-president Jim Thompson says, “We are very proud to receive this high level of accreditation from Charity Navigator. We have worked diligently to maximize our budget to provide the aid that so many in our industry desperately need. Life-altering illness or accident can devastate a family’s financial situation, and the Broadcasters Foundation is committed to easing that strain for our colleagues who qualify.” For more information, visit www.broadcastersfoundation.org.

Ukraine Tensions, COVID-19, Financial Markets/Inflation/Crypto Plunge, Urban Violent Crime Spike, Midterms/Trump & GOP, Boris Johnson Troubles, the Beijing Olympics, and Baseball Hall of Fame Snubs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/25). The global tensions over Russia’s military build-up at the Ukraine border; COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and abroad plus legal battles over mask & vaccine mandates; the skittish world financial markets, high retail and oil prices & the plunge in cryptocurrency; the spike in violent crime in America’s large cities; the battle for control of Congress in the November midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson on the ropes for violating his own COVID regulations; the drama surrounding the Beijing Olympics; and the Baseball Hall of Fame doesn’t admit Roger Clemens or Barry Bonds on their final ballots were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.