Ratings Takeaways

April 2024 PPM Ratings – Part One

imApril 2024 PPM Data – Information for the April 2024 ratings period (March 28 – April 24) 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 (New Jersey).

The only requirement for a spoken-word station to be included here is that they be a Nielsen Audio subscriber – there are no share or rank thresholds.

MLB; NBA; and NHL team names of corresponding spoken-word flagship(s) are bolded.

For context, MLB’s 2024 season officially started March 20 when the Dodgers and Padres played two games in South Korea; the other 28 teams played their first game March 28.

Meanwhile, NBA and NHL playoffs began April 20.

DNA – DNA = Did Not Appear – Does Not Appear

Comparisons are March 2024 – April 2024  (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk

WABC 4.0 – 3.2, #9 – #11

WOR 1.6 – 1.4, #20 – #20

WKXW 1.0 – 1.0, #23 – #23

WKXW Stream .3 – .3, #34 – #37

News

WINS-FM 4.6 – 4.7, #5 – #5

WCBS-AM 2.0 – 1.8, #14 – #19 (Mets)

WINS-FM Stream .4 – .4, #32 – #34

Business News WBBR .4 – .4, #32 – #34

WCBS-AM Stream .1 – .2, #45 – #39 (Mets 

Sports Talk

WFAN FM & AM 1.9 – 2.3, #15 -#13 (Yankees, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WFAN FM & AM Stream .6 – 1.1, #26 -#22 (Yankees, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils) 

Public Radio News/Talk

WNYC-FM 4.0 – 4.0, #9 – #8

WNYC-AM 1.0 – .6, #23 – #27 

Notes: The +.5 registered by sports talk WFAN’s internet stream (.6 – 1.1) represents New York’s largest (6+) March 2024 – April 2024 increase; conversely, news/talk WABC’s -.8 (4.0 – 3.2) is the market’s largest (6+) March 2024 – April 2024 decrease.

The flagship of the Knicks, Islanders, and Rangers is sports talk WEPN-FM (DNA).

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk

KFI 5.5 – 4.6, #3 – #3

KRLA .7 – .9, #33 – #32

KEIB .7 – .6, #33 – #34  (Clippers 

News

KNX-FM 3.0 – 3.4, #10 – #10

KNX-FM Stream .2 – .2, #39 – #38

Sports Talk

KLAC .8 – 1.6, #32 – #27 (Dodgers, Clippers 

Public Radio News/Talk

KPCC 2.2 – 2.1, #17 – #19

Notes: Whereas sports/talk KLAC’s +.8 (.8 – 1.6) represents Los Angeles’ largest (6+) March 2024 – April 2024 increase, news/talk KFI’s -.9 (5.5 – 4.6) is the market’s largest (6+) March 2024 – April 2024 decrease.

The flagship of the Angels and Lakers is sports talk KESN (DNA); Kings’ games are heard on the iHeartRadio app; games of the Anaheim Ducks are heard on the Ducks stream.

CHICAGO

News/Talk

WGN 3.2 – 3.8, #9 – #9  (Blackhawks)

WLS-AM 1.4 – .9, #25 – #27

WLIP .1 – .3, #40 – #35

WVON .2 – .2, #38 – #39

WLS-AM Stream .1 – DNA, #40 – DNA

News

WBBM-AM & WCFS 5.4 – 5.2, #4  – #4

WBBM-AM & WCFS Stream .1 – .2, #40 – #39

Sports Talk

WSCR 2.9 – 3.3, #11 – #10 (Cubs, Bulls)

WSCR Stream .4 – .3, #31 – #35 (Cubs, Bulls)

WSHE-HD2 .1 – .1, #40 – #45  

Public Radio News/Talk

WBEZ 2.0 – 2.0, #18 – #18  

Note: The White Sox flagship is sports talk WMVP (DNA).

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk

KSFO 1.4 – 1.4, #22 – #22

KSFO Stream .1 – .1, #34 – #37

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 6.5 – 6.2, #3 – #3

KNEW .3 – .3, #30 – #30 (Oakland A’s)  

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream .1 – DNA, #34 – DNA

KKSF DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

KNBR 3.0 – 3.9, #10 – #6 (Giants)

KGMZ 2.0 – 1.9, #18 – #19 (Golden State Warriors)

KNBR Stream .4 – .5, #28 – #28 (Giants)

KGO .1 – .1, #34 – #37  

KGO Stream DNA – .1, DNA – #37  

KTCT .1 – .1, #34 – #37  

KGMZ Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Golden State Warriors)

Public Radio News/Talk

KQED 7.2 – 7.1, #2 – #1

KALW .2 – .2, #33 – #32

Notes: Sports/talk KNBR’s +.9 (3.0 – 3.9) represents San Francisco’s largest (6+) March 2024 – April 2024 increase.

Games of the San Jose Sharks are carried on the Sharks Audio Network.

DALLAS

News/Talk

WBAP 3.6 – 3.2, #10 – #11

KEGL 1.3 – 1.3, #28 – #29  (Mavericks)

KSKY .7 – .6, #33 – #34

KLIF-AM .4 – .3, #35 – #36

KSKY Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

News

News – Talk KRLD-AM 1.3 – 1.4, #28 – #28

News – Talk KRLD-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News KKGM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

KTCK 3.6 – 3.7, #10 – #10 (Stars)

KRLD-FM 1.7 – 2.3, #24 – #20 (Texas Rangers)

KRLD-FM Stream 1.1 – 1.1, #31 – #31 (Texas Rangers)

Public Radio News/Talk

KERA 4.2 – 3.1, #5 – #12  

Note: Public radio news/talk KERA’s -1.1 (4.2 – 3.1) represents Dallas’ largest (6+) March 2024 – April 2024 decrease.

HOUSTON 

News/Talk

KTRH 3.2 – 2.8, #13 – #17  (Astros, Rockets)

KPRC .3 – .4, #28 – #27  

News

KXYZ .1 – .1 #32 – #34

Sports Talk

KBME .5 – 1.1, #27 – #23  (Astros, Rockets)

KILT-AM .8 – .9, #26 – #25

KILT-AM Stream .1 – .4, #32 – #27

KFNC .2 – DNA, #30 – DNA  

Public Radio News/Talk

KUHF 2.9 – 2.5, #17 – #18

ATLANTA

News/Talk

WSB-AM & WSBB 7.7– 7.1, #2 – #2

WFOM .5 – .2, #26 – #32

WGKA .3 – .2, #30 – #32

WAOK .1 – .1, #34 – #35

WAOK Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

WSRV-HD3 Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

WBIN DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WCNN 2.5 – 3.8, #17 – #10 (Braves)

WZGC 3.8 – 3.8, #9 – #10 (Hawks)

WZGC Stream .4 – .5, #28 – #29 (Hawks)

Public Radio News/Talk

WABE 3.7 – 3.4, #10 – #13

WRAS  .5 – .6, #26 – #25

WABE-HD3 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

Notes: Sports/talk WCNN’s +1.3 (2.5 – 3.8) represents Atlanta’s largest (6+) March 2024 – April 2024 increase, while news/talk WSB-AM’s -.6 (4.2 – 3.1) represents a four-way tie for the market’s largest (6+) March 2024 – April 2024 decrease. 

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk

WPHT 2.3 – 2.3, #15 – #15

WKXW 1.1 – 1.1, #24 – #23

WPHT Stream .5 – .7, #27 – #26

WURD .6 – .4, #26 – #27

WURD Stream .2 – .1, #29 – #31

WKXW Stream .1 – .1, #31 – #31

WDEL-AM .1 – DNA, #31 – DNA 

News

KYW & WPHI 5.8 – 5.5, #4 – #6

KYW & WPHI Stream .2 – .3, #29 – #28

WTEL .1 – .1, #31 – #31

Sports Talk

WIP 5.5 – 6.7, #6 – #4 (Phillies)

WIP Stream 3.2 – 2.8, #12 – #13 (Phillies)

WPEN-FM 1.2 – 1.3, #23 – #22 (76ers, Flyers)

Public Radio News/Talk

WHYY 3.1 – 3.1, #13 – #9      

Note: Sports/talk WIP’s +1.2 (5.5 – 6.7) represents Philadelphia’s largest (6+) March 2024 – April 2024 increase. 

NASSAU-SUFFOLK (LONG ISLAND)

News/Talk

WABC 1.5 – 1.6, #18 – #18

WOR 1.0 – 1.1, #21 – #19

WLIR .2 – .2, #27 – #28

News

WINS-FM 4.9 – 5.2, #5 – #2

WCBS-AM 1.8 – 2.2, #17 – #15 (Mets)

WCBS-AM Stream .2 – .5, #27 – #24 (Mets)

Business News WBBR .4 – .5, #26 – #24

WINS-FM Stream .6 – .5, #24 – #24

Sports Talk

WFAN-FM & AM 2.4 – 2.6, #12 – #11 (Yankees, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WFAN-FM & AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Yankees, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

Public Radio News/Talk

WSUF .2 – .2, #27 – #28

Note: The flagship of the Knicks, Islanders, and Rangers is sports talk WEPN-FM (DNA).

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk

None

News

KFOO .1 – .1, #25 – #25

Sports Talk

KPWK .2 – .3, #23 – #21

Public Radio News/Talk

KVCR .3 – .4 #19 – #19

KPCC .1 – .1, #25 – #25

SAN JOSE

News/Talk

KSFO 1.8 – 1.9, #19 – #16

KSFO Stream .2 – DNA, #27 – DNA  

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 4.7 – 3.9, #5 – #7

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream .2 – .2, #27 – #28

KNEW .2 – .2, #27 – #28 (Oakland A’s)  

Sports Talk

KNBR 2.8 – 3.2, #10 – #9 (Giants)

KGMZ 2.0 – 1.8, #18 – #19 (Golden State Warriors)

KNBR Stream .5 – .9, #26 – #26 (Giants)

KGO Stream .2 – .4, #27 – #27  

KGO .2 – .2, #27 – #28  

KTCT .2 – .2, #27 – #28   

KGMZ Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Golden State Warriors) 

Public Radio News/Talk

None

Note: Sharks’ games are carried on the Sharks Audio Network.

MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION

News/Talk

WKXW 7.5 – 7.3, #1 #1

WOR 3.6 – 3.1, #9 – #10

WKXW Stream .7 – .7, #19 – #21         

News

WINS-FM 2.4 – 2.0, #11 – #13

WCBS-AM .8 – .9, #18 – #19 (Mets)

WINS-FM Stream .3 – .3, #22 – #24

WCBS-AM Stream DNA – .1, DNA – #25 (Mets)

Sports Talk

WFAN-FM & AM 2.9 – 3.9, #10 – #8 (Yankees, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WFAN FM & AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Yankees, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)    

Public Radio News/Talk

None 

Notes: Sports/talk WFAN’s +1.0 (2.9 – 3.9) represents Middlesex-Somerset-Union’s largest (6+) March 2024 – April 2024 increase.

The flagship of the Knicks, Islanders, and Rangers is sports talk WEPN-FM (DNA).   

Up next: April 2024 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

Pennsylvania-based radio and television host John Fredericks – operator of the John Fredericks Radio Network – confirmed he is “strongly considering” a campaign for the Chair of the Pennsylvania delegation to the Republican National Convention. Fredericks says grassroots voters propelled him to a “landslide” victory to become an RNC delegate to nominate former President Donald Trump. Fredericks told The Pennsylvania Daily Star, “I’m only considering a run for delegation chairman due to the outpouring of support I’ve gotten and the number of people that have asked me to run. I am going to the convention for one purpose, and that is to make sure that President Trump’s agenda is executed to precision.”

Salem Media’s New York Christian Teach & Talk radio station WMCA “AM570/FM102.3 The Mission” is partnering with the Christian Cultural Center to host a day honoring the many hardworking pastors and ministry leaders of New York and their service to the citizens of the city. The WMCA Annual Pastors Appreciation Breakfast & Ministry Exhibition will be held on Friday, May 24.

PodcastOne’s “Baby Mamas No Drama” is named the People’s Choice Winner 2024 for Best Lifestyle Podcast in the 28th Annual Webby Awards Internet Celebration. The podcast is hosted by Kail Lowry and Vee Rivera, two hosts who are both part of the cultural phenomenon MTV television show, “Teen Mom.”

Industry News

Boomer and WFAN, New York Ink Extension

WFAN, New York morning drive personality Boomer Esiason signs a multiyear extension with the Audacy sports talk giant. Esiason co-hosts the “Boomer & Gio” show with Gregg “Gio” Giannotti. Audacy notes that this new deal brings Esiason past 20 years as morning drive host at WFAN, making him the longest-tenured morning show host in the station’s history, surpassing Don Imus. Audacy Newim York market president Chris Oliviero says, “Boomer has become a true cornerstone in the long, storied history of WFAN. He was already the highest-rated morning show in the FAN record books, and now, with this new extension, he will add longest-running to his accolades. And most excitedly, we are certain the best is still yet to come as Boomer begins this new chapter in his career by making a longterm commitment to the FAN, along with a creative vision for elevating the brand together to new heights.” Esiason comments, “For the last 17 years, it has been an honor to be the voice that New York sports fans wake up to. I could not be more excited to continue delivering four hours of entertaining conversation at the most vibrant and storied sports radio station in the country, working alongside the morning crew. I would like to thank Audacy, Chris Oliviero, and, most importantly, our passionate listeners for the opportunity to continue on this incredible ride.”

Industry News

Report: Francesa Says Tom Brady “Not Going to Be Great” TV Analyst

The publication Marca reports that former WFAN, New York afternoon drive legend Mike Francesa has a not great prediction about Tom Brady’s probability of success as a FOX Sports NFL color analyst. The seven-time Super Bowl winner will begin his 10-year, $375 million gig with FOX this September, takingim over for Greg Olsen alongside play-by-play announcer Kevin Burkhardt. Francesa is quoted saying that Brady obviously has a deep knowledge of the game but he believes Brady will struggle. “I don’t think his personality is such. I don’t think he’s going to be great at it. I really don’t. I think there’s a unique quality that you have to bring that allows you as an analyst to see the game, see the game quickly, plus bring personality into it. It’s a tricky job for the analyst in football because you’re going to spend a lot of time over replay. You’re going to spend a lot of time breaking down what happens on replay. And you also have to be very personable and glib in how you do it. I don’t see him there.” Read the Marca story here.

Industry News

Round One of March PPMs Released

imThe first of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s March 2024 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). The survey covered February 29 through March 27. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In New York, Red Apple Media Group’s news/talk WABC rises two-tenths to finish with a 4.0 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) that lifts it to the #9 rank in the market. iHeartMedia’s news/talk WOR is steady with a 1.6 share and the #20 rank, while Audacy’s all-news WINS-FM adds one-tenth for a 4.6 share good for the #5 rank. In Los Angeles, iHeartMedia’s news/talk KFI inches up one-tenth for a 5.5 share that keeps it locked into the #3 rank. In Chicago, Nexstar Media Group’s WGN-AM dips three-tenths, finishing with a 3.2 share and the #9 rank, while Cumulus Media news/talk WLS-AM falls six-tenths to a 1.4 share good for the #25 rank. Audacy all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM is steady with a 5.4 share but falls back to the #4 rank. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

Ratings Takeaways

March 2024 PPM Ratings – Part One

imMarch 2024 PPM Data – Information for the March 2024 ratings period (February 29 – March 27) 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 (New Jersey).

The only requirement for a spoken-word station to be included here is that they be a Nielsen Audio subscriber – there are no share or rank thresholds.

NBA and NHL team names of corresponding spoken-word flagship(s) are bolded.

DNA – DNA = Did Not Appear – Does Not Appear

Comparisons are February 2024 – March 2024  (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk

WABC 3.8 – 4.0, #11 – #9

WOR 1.6 – 1.6, #20 – #20

WKXW 1.0 – 1.0, #23 – #23

WKXW Stream .3 – .3, #35 – #34

News

WINS-FM 4.5 – 4.6, #7 – #5

WCBS-AM 1.7 – 2.0, #19 – #14

WINS-FM Stream .4 – .4, #33 – #32

Business News WBBR .4 – .4, #33 – #32

WCBS-AM Stream .1 – .1, #46 – #45

Sports Talk

WFAN FM & AM 2.0 – 1.9, #15 -#15 (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WFAN FM & AM Stream .8 – .6, #25 -#26 (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)   

Public Radio News/Talk

WNYC-FM 4.7 – 4.0, #4 – #9

WNYC-AM 1.1 – 1.0, #22 – #23

Notes: News WCBS-AM’s +.3 (1.7 – 2.0) represents a tie for New York’s largest (6+) February 2024 – March 2024 increase.

Conversely, public radio news/talk WNYC-FM’s -.7 (4.7 – 4.0) represents the market’s largest (6+)February 2024 – March 2024 decrease. 

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk

KFI 5.4 – 5.5, #3 – #3

KEIB .7 – .7, #32 – #33  (Clippers)

KRLA .6 – .7, #34 – #33  

News

KNX-FM 3.3 – 3.0, #10 – #10

KNX-FM Stream .3 – .2, #37 – #39

Sports Talk

KLAC .7 – .8, #32 – #32 (Clippers)

Public Radio News/Talk

KPCC 2.4 – 2.2, #15 – #17

Kings’ games are heard on the iHeartRadio app, while games of the Anaheim Ducks are heard on the Ducks stream.

CHICAGO

News/Talk

WGN 3.5 – 3.2, #8 – #9  (Blackhawks)

WLS-AM 2.0 – 1.4, #18 – #25

WVON .1 – .2, #40 – #38

WLIP .4 – .1, #34 – #40

WLS-AM Stream .1 – .1, #40 – #40

News

WBBM-AM & WCFS 5.4 – 5.4, #3  – #4

WBBM-AM & WCFS Stream .3 – .1, #35 – #40

Sports Talk

WSCR 3.1 – 2.9, #10 – #11 (Bulls)

WSCR Stream .3 – .4, #35 – #31 (Bulls)

WSHE-HD2 DNA – .1, DNA – #40

WMVP DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WBEZ 2.4 – 2.0, #16 – #18   

Note: News/talk WLS-AM’s -.6 (2.0 – 1.4) represents Chicago’s largest (6+) February 2024 – March 2024 decrease.

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk

KSFO 1.4 – 1.4, #22 – #22

KSFO Stream .3 – .1, #32 – #34

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 6.7 – 6.5, #3 – #3

KNEW .4 – .3, #28 – #30  

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream .1 – .1, #34 – #34

KKSF DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

Sports Talk

KNBR 3.2 – 3.0, #9 – #10

KGMZ 2.1 – 2.0, #16 – #18 (Golden State Warriors)

KNBR Stream DNA – .4, DNA – #28

KGO .1 – .1, #34 – #34  

KTCT .1 – .1, #34 – #34  

KGMZ Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Golden State Warriors)

KGO Stream .1 – DNA, #34 – DNA  

Public Radio News/Talk

KQED 7.6 – 7.2, #2 – #2

KALW .4 – .2, #28 – #33

DALLAS

News/Talk

WBAP 3.3 – 3.6, #12 – #10

KEGL 1.3 – 1.3, #29 – #28  (Mavericks)

KSKY .8 – .7, #33 – #33

KLIF-AM .3 – .4, #38 – #35

KSKY Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

News – Talk KRLD-AM 1.5 – 1.3, #27 – #28

News – Talk KRLD-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News KKGM .1 – DNA, #42 – DNA

Sports Talk

KTCK 4.9 – 3.6, after back-to-back months at #1, falls to #10 (Stars)

KRLD-FM 2.3 – 1.7, #19 – #24

KRLD-FM Stream 1.0 – 1.1, #30 – #31

Public Radio News/Talk

KERA 4.0 – 4.2, #8 – #5  

Note: Sports talk KTCK’s -1.3 (4.9 – 3.6) represents a tie for the most significant (6+) February 2024 – March 2024 decrease by any station in these twelve PPM-markets.

HOUSTON 

News/Talk

KTRH 3.4 – 3.2, #14 – #13  (Rockets)

KPRC .4 – .3, #28 – #28  

News

KXYZ .1 – .1 #33 – #32

Sports Talk

KILT-AM .7 – .8, #25 – #26

KBME .5 – .5, #27 – #27  (Rockets)

KFNC .1 – .2, #33- #30

KILT-AM Stream .1 – .1, #33 – #32   

Public Radio News/Talk

KUHF 2.8 – 2.9, #17 – #17

ATLANTA

News/Talk

WSB-AM & WSBB 7.3– 7.7, #3 – #2

WFOM .5 – .5, #26 – #26

WGKA .3 – .3, #30 – #30

WAOK .1 – .1, #34 – #34

WAOK Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

WSRV-HD3 Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

WBIN DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WZGC 3.6 – 3.8, #11 – #9 (Hawks)

WCNN 2.1 – 2.5, #17 – #17

WZGC Stream .5 – .4, #26 – #28 (Hawks)

Public Radio News/Talk

WABE 3.6 – 3.7, #11 – #10

WRAS  .5 – .5, #26 – #26

WABE-HD3 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk

WPHT 2.0 – 2.3, #15 – #15

WKXW 1.1 – 1.1, #24 – #24

WURD .4 – .6, #27 – #26

WPHT Stream .8 – .5, #26 – #27

WURD Stream .2 – .2, #29 – #29

WKXW Stream .1 – .1, #32 – #31

WDEL-AM DNA – .1, DNA – #31 

News

KYW & WPHI 6.0 – 5.8, #5 – #4

KYW & WPHI Stream .3 – .2, #28 – #29

WTEL DNA – .1, DNA – #31

Sports Talk

WIP 5.7 – 5.5, #6 – #6

WIP Stream 2.0 – 3.2, #15 – #12

WPEN-FM 1.2 – 1.2, #22 – #23 (76ers, Flyers)

Public Radio News/Talk

WHYY 3.3 – 3.1, #12 – #13      

Note: Sports talk WIP’s internet stream registers Philadelphia’s largest (6+) February 2024 – March 2024 increase (2.0 – 3.2, +1.2). 

NASSAU-SUFFOLK (LONG ISLAND)

News/Talk

WABC 1.8 – 1.5, #17 – #18

WOR 1.2 – 1.0, #19 – #21

WLIR .2 – .2, #27 – #27

News

WINS-FM 5.1 – 4.9, #3 – #5

WCBS-AM 1.7 – 1.8, #18 – #17

WINS-FM Stream .7 – .6, #23 – #24

Business News WBBR .4 – .4, #26 – #26

WCBS-AM Stream .2 – .2, #27 – #27

Sports Talk

WFAN-FM & AM 2.7 – 2.4, #12 – #12 (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WFAN-FM & AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)

Public Radio News/Talk

WSUF .2 – .2, #27 – #27

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk

None

News

KFOO DNA – .1, DNA – #25

Sports Talk

KPWK .5 – .2, #19 – #23

Public Radio News/Talk

KVCR .5 – .3 #19 – #19

KPCC DNA – .1, DNA – #25

SAN JOSE

News/Talk

KSFO 2.1 – 1.8, #15 – #19

KSFO Stream .2 – .2, #30 – #27  

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 5.4 – 4.7, #4 – #5

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream .3 – .2, #26 – #27

KNEW .3 – .2, #26 – #27  

Sports Talk

KNBR 3.6 – 2.8, #7 – #10

KGMZ 2.0 – 2.0, #19 – #18 (Golden State Warriors)

KNBR Stream DNA – .5, DNA – #26

KGO .2 – .2, #30 – #27  

KGO Stream .3 – .2, #26 – #27  

KTCT .3 – .2, #26 – #27   

KGMZ Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Golden State Warriors) 

Public Radio News/Talk

None

Sharks’ games are carried on the Sharks Audio Network.

MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION (New Jersey) 

News/Talk

WKXW 7.2 – 7.5, #2 – #1

WOR 3.6 – 3.6, #9 – #9

WKXW Stream 1.1 – .7, #18 – #19         

News

WINS-FM 2.4 – 2.4, #11 – #11

WCBS-AM .8 – .8, #19 – #18

WINS-FM Stream .5 – .3, #23 – #22

WCBS-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WFAN-FM & AM 2.9 – 2.9, #10 – #10 (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WFAN FM & AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)

Public Radio News/Talk

None 

Up next: March 2024 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry News

Audacy Names Ryan Hurley WFAN, New York PD

The new brand manager for Audacy’s sports talk WFAN, New York is Ryan Hurley, who comes from a two-decade stint with crosstown competitor “ESPN New York” (WEPN-FM). Hurley takes over programming WFAN and the Infinity Sports Network (formerly CBS Sports Radio) from Spike Eskin,im who is returning to Philadelphia as a host at the company’s “SportsRadio 94WIP.” Audacy New York market president Chris Oliviero says, “Ryan knows radio, sports and New York, making him a triple threat to take the reins of WFAN, which continues to be the city’s most influential and dominant sports platform. In addition, with Infinity Sports Network, Ryan will have a major impact on the sports conversation nationwide. All of us at Audacy are excited to welcome him to the team.” Hurley, who joined ESPN New York as an intern in 2004 after graduating from Hofstra University and worked his way up to PD in 2017, says, “I am excited and grateful to have the opportunity to join this legendary station. The term ‘dream job’ can get thrown around a lot, but as someone who grew up listening to ‘The Fan’ religiously, that is exactly what this is. There is an incredible team here led by Chris Oliviero, and I look forward to this journey ahead with them.” Additionally, David Mayurnik has been named assistant brand manager of WFAN and Infinity Sports Network and will report to Hurley.

Industry News TALKERS 2024

John Catsimatidis Named Recipient of 2024 TALKERS Freedom of Speech Award

im

Self-made billionaire businessman, broadcasting entrepreneur, radio talk show host and best-selling author John Catsimatidis (pictured above speaking at last year’s TALKERS 2023) has been selected by the TALKERS editorial board as the 2024 recipient of the highly prestigious Gene Burns Memorial Award for Freedom of Speech. The honor, also commonly referred to as the “TALKERS Freedom of Speech Award,” is presented each year to a talk media practitioner whose work sets an example for the exercise and preservation of the First Amendment. In addition to Catsimatidis’ founding and/or ownership of major enterprises in the fields of grocery chains and the energy industry, he is a long-running radio talk show host who began changing the course of the medium’s history by purchasing heritage radio station WABC, New York in 2019.  Since then, the Greek immigrant born on the island of Nistros in 1948 and who came to the United States with his parents when he was six months old, has made significant progress in repositioning and reinvigorating the legendary talk and music station to its role as a major cultural and political influencer in modern media. This has been accomplished by boldly bringing diverse, high-profile voices to the station’s talent lineup, focusing heavily on local news and public policy issues, eliminating paid weekend programming, adding a dash of music and pop culture to the mix, concentrating the station’s schedule on live shows in real time and investing in community-oriented events. Catsimatidis’ Red Apple Media Group has subsequently expanded the station’s national footprint by acquiring WLIR-FM, Long Island and launching its own syndication arm, Red Apple Audio Networks. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison, upon announcing the selection, stated, “John Catsimatidis is a true New York City legend and former mayoral candidate who has proven to be one of the most positive forces the radio industry has seen in decades. He embodies the spirit of what this award is all about. He joins a remarkable list of broadcasters from all ends of the political spectrum – left, right, middle, and apolitical – who’ve received this honor going back every year to the origins of TALKERS in the late 1980s.” The award will be presented at TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond at Hofstra University on Long Island Friday, June 7.

Industry News

Talk Media Industry Mourns Loss of “Popular Guest” Joe Lieberman

The death of former U.S. Senator Joe Lieberman (D-CT) yesterday (3/27) at the age of 82 sparked a wave of sad reaction across the talk media industry where he was fondly remembered as one of the most popular political guests during the height of his public career during the 90s and the first decade of the 2000s. During the turn of the century, he boldly straddled the boundaries between left and rightim ideology on an issue-by-issue basis – although infuriating his fellow Democrats on many an occasion. After leaving the Senate in 2012, he withdrew somewhat from the political spotlight to serve as an attorney in private practice and a college professor but remained outspoken on issues of politics and public policy. His most recent activities included founding the No Labels Group which condemns what Lieberman described as the “partisan polarization of our politics which prevents us from making the principled compromises on which progress in a democracy depends.” Lieberman said, “We need bipartisan leadership to break the gridlock in Washington that will unleash all the potential that is in the American people.” TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison had the opportunity to get to know Joe Lieberman very well while serving as a talk show host on Connecticut’s leading talk station, WTIC, Hartford in the early 1990s. Harrison states, “Joe Lieberman was always available at a moment’s notice to appear on the air with me during those golden days of talk radio’s modern era and it was apparent to me – as well as talk show hosts across the nation – that he wasn’t your ‘run of the mill politician’ who put party over country and avoided answering the tough questions. There was a profound honesty in his words and tone that inspired confidence, among even those who disagreed with him, that they were talking to a very solid, principles-based man.” Harrison continues, “Talk show hosts on both sides of the political divide loved him for his warmth, candor and accessibility.” Harrison concludes, “Al Gore would have been better served during his run for the presidency to have let Joe have freer reign over his media availability during the campaign, something the VP failed to do. Every request for Joe to be a guest – many of which were squashed – had to go through the Gore campaign which turned off a lot of Joe’s friends and admirers in both radio camps.”

In 2018, during the midpoint of the Donald Trump presidency, Michael Harrison scored a rare and illuminating interview with Joe Lieberman for his podcast and various platforms (including a “reunion” on WTIC).  Click here to listen. WABC, New York talk show host Frank Morano interviewed the former senator this past Friday (3/22) which is most likely his last radio interview.  Click here to listen.

Industry News

Bold Gold Media Group Unveils Bold Gold Studios

Bold Gold Media Group announces the grand opening of Bold Gold Studios – a brand-new, state-of-the-art audio and video podcast and recording studio located in the newly renovated historic Liberty Theater, on Main Street in Liberty, New York. The company says that in addition to providing interested podcasters and content creators a place to make their audio and video magic, this studio will also serveim as a satellite radio studio for Bold Gold Media’s four local broadcast radio stations, including news/talk WVOS-AM/W223DB “Catskills News Talk 92.5 & 94.9.”  Bold Gold Studios will be available for lease opportunities, and offers brand new professional audio and video recording gear, with experts available to assist in recording, producing, and even marketing branded multi-media podcast or A/V productions. The company will hold a grand opening celebration on April 19. Bold Gold New York general manager Dawn Ciorciari says, “We are grateful to Bruce Davidson at the Liberty Theater for partnering with Bold Gold Media to create and manage this state-of-the-art studio in his historic building.  This studio will extend Bold Gold Media’s reach in Sullivan and the Catskills and serve as a new professional space for audio and video content creators.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

The NAB launches the 2024 Election Toolkit – an online resource that provides local television and radio broadcasters with tips and resources to combat misinformation, drive get-out-the-vote efforts and cover local, state and federal elections. NAB president and CEO Curtis LeGeyt states, “Research suggests only about a third of Americans believe the upcoming 2024 election will be both honest and open, and nearly two-thirds believe that disinformation will influence the outcome. Broadcasters’ trusted local journalism combats the overwhelming tide of misinformation and disinformation online, making our role in providing accurate information this election season more important than ever.” Check it out here.

Former President Donald Trump sat down for a wide-ranging interview with WABC, New York’s Sid Rosenberg, on the “Sid and Friends in the Morning” program. Trump talked about his stance on abortion, the war in Gaza and his bid to win the White House this November.

Cumulus Media and MLB’s Los Angeles Dodgers agree to renew their partnership to air Dodgers games on KYVB, Oxnard-Ventura.

Cumulus Media’s Westwood One is the official network audio broadcast partner of the NCAA, and will once again be home to every game in the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament. Westwood One will present each game through the National Championship on April 8.

Industry News

Round One of February PPMs Released

imThe first of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s February 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). The February survey covered February 1 – 28. 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 adds three-tenths to finish the survey with a 3.8 share (6+, weekly AQH share) but remains ranked #11, while iHeartMedia’s news/talk WOR loses one-tenth for a 1.6 share finish and falls to the #20 rank. In Chicago, Nexstar Media Group’s news/talk WGN tacks on four-tenths to finish with a 3.5 share that lifts it to the #8 rank, while Cumulus Media’s news/talk WLS-AM adds two-tenths for a 2.0 share finish and remains ranked #18. Audacy’s crosstown all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM fell eight-tenths to a 5.4 share but only regressed one spot to the #3 rank. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

Ratings Takeaways

February 2024 PPM Ratings – Part One

imFebruary 2024 PPM Data – Information for the February 2024 ratings period (February 1 – February 28) 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 (New Jersey).

The only requirement for a spoken-word station to be included here is that they be a Nielsen Audio subscriber – there are no share or rank thresholds.

NBA and NHL team names of corresponding spoken-word flagship(s) are bolded.

DNA – DNA = Did Not Appear – Does Not Appear

Comparisons are January 2024 – February 2024  (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk

WABC 3.5 – 3.8, #11 – #11

WOR 1.7 – 1.6, #17 – #20

WKXW 1.0 – 1.0, #24 – #23

WKXW Stream .3 – .3, #35 – #35

News

WINS-FM 4.7 – 4.5, #6 – #7

WCBS-AM 1.7 – 1.7, #17 – #19

WINS-FM Stream .5 – .4, #27 – #33

Business News WBBR .4 – .4, #31 – #33

WCBS-AM Stream .2 – .1, #39 – #46 

Sports Talk

WFAN FM & AM 2.7 – 2.0, #13 -#15 (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WFAN FM & AM Stream .8 – .8, #25 -#25 (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)   

Public Radio News/Talk

WNYC-FM 4.5 – 4.7, #7 – #4

WNYC-AM 1.2 – 1.1, #22 – #22 

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk

KFI 5.5 – 5.4, #3 – #3

KEIB .8 – .7, #33 – #32  (Clippers)

KRLA .6 – .6, #34 – #34  

News

KNX-FM 2.8 – 3.3, #12 – #10

KNX-FM Stream .2 – .3, #39 – #37  

Sports Talk

KLAC .9 – .7, #32 – #32 (Clippers 

Public Radio News/Talk

KPCC 2.3 – 2.4, #15 – #15

Kings’ games are heard on the iHeartRadio app, while games of the Anaheim Ducks are heard on the Ducks stream.

CHICAGO

News/Talk

WGN 3.1 – 3.5, #10 – #8  (Blackhawks)

WLS-AM 1.9 – 2.0, #18 – #18

WLIP .4 – .4, #35 – #34

WLS-AM Stream .1 – .1, #41 – #40

WVON .1 – .1, #41 – #40

News

WBBM-AM & WCFS 6.2 – 5.4, #2  – #3

WBBM-AM & WCFS Stream .2 – .3, #38 – #35

Sports Talk

WSCR 3.4 – 3.1, #8 – #10 (Bulls)

WSCR Stream .6 – .3, #32 – #35 (Bulls)

WMVP DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

Public Radio News/Talk

WBEZ 2.7 – 2.4, #13 – #16   

Note: News WBBM-AM & WCFS’ -.8 (6.2 – 5.4) represents Chicago’s highest (6+) January 2024 – February 2024 decrease.

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk

KSFO 1.5 – 1.4, #22 – #22

KSFO Stream .3 – .3, #30 – #32

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 6.6 – 6.7, #3 – #3

KNEW .3 – .4, #30 – #28  

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream DNA – .1, DNA – #34

KKSF DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

Sports Talk

KNBR 3.9 – 3.2, #6 – #9

KGMZ 2.4 – 2.1, #14 – #16 (Golden State Warriors)

KGO .2 – .1, #34 – #34  

KGO Stream .2 – .1, #34 – #34  

KTCT .2 – .1, #34 – #34  

KGMZ Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Golden State Warriors)      

Public Radio News/Talk

KQED 7.9 – 7.6, #2 – #2

KALW .3 – .4, #32 – #28

Note: Sports talk KNBR’s -.7 (3.9 – 3.2) represents San Francisco’s highest (6+) January 2024 – February 2024 decrease.

DALLAS

News/Talk

WBAP 3.7 – 3.3, #9 – #12

KEGL 1.2 – 1.3, #29 – #29  (Mavericks)

KSKY .6 – .8, #32 – #33

KLIF-AM .5 – .3, #33 – #38

KSKY Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

News

News – Talk KRLD-AM 1.7 – 1.5, #24 – #27

News – Talk KRLD-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News KKGM DNA – .1, DNA – #42

Sports Talk

KTCK 5.6 – 4.9, second straight month at #1 (Stars)

KRLD-FM 2.8 – 2.3, #17 – #19

KRLD-FM Stream .4 – 1.0, #35 – #30

Public Radio News/Talk

KERA 4.0 – 4.0, #7 – #8  

Notes: The +.6 (.4 – 1.0) registered by sports/talk KRLD-FM’s internet stream represents a tie for Dallas’ highest (6+) January 2024 – February 2024 increase, while similarly-formatted KTCK’s -.7 (5.6 – 4.9) is the market’s highest (6+) January 2024 – February 2024 decrease.

HOUSTON 

News/Talk

KTRH 3.6 – 3.4, #9 – #14  (Rockets)

KPRC . 3 – .4, #28 – #28  

News

KXYZ .1 – .1 #34 – #33

Sports Talk

KILT-AM 1.6 – .7, #21 – #25

KBME .6 – .5, #27 – #27  (Rockets)

KILT-AM Stream .3 – .1, #28 – #33

KFNC .2 – .1, #33 – #33

Public Radio News/Talk

KUHF 2.8 – 2.8, #19 – #17

ATLANTA

News/Talk

WSB-AM & WSBB 8.6– 7.3, #1 – #3

WFOM .6 – .5, #27 – #26

WGKA .3 – .3, #30 – #30

WAOK .2 – .1, #31 – #34

WAOK Stream .1 – DNA, #36 – DNA

WSRV-HD3 Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

WBIN .1 – DNA, #36 – DNA

Sports Talk

WZGC 4.2 – 3.6, #8 – #11 (Hawks)

WCNN 2.2 – 2.1, #16 – #17

WZGC Stream .8 – .5, #24 – #26 (Hawks)

Public Radio News/Talk

WABE 4.0 – 3.6, #9 – #11

WRAS  .7 – .5, #25 – #26

WABE-HD3 .1 – DNA, #36 – DNA

Note: News/talk WSB-AM & WSBB’s -1.3 (8.6 – 7.3) represents Atlanta’s highest (6+) January 2024 – February 2024 decrease.

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk

WPHT 2.2 – 2.0, #16 – #15

WKXW 1.3 – 1.1, #23 – #24

WPHT Stream .7 – .8, #26 – #26

WURD .4 – .4, #28 – #27

WURD Stream .2 – .2, #30 – #29

WKXW Stream DNA – .1, DNA – #32

WDEL-AM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

KYW & WPHI 6.2 – 6.0, #5 – #5

KYW & WPHI Stream .1 – .3, #32 – #28

WTEL DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WIP 7.0 – 5.7, #4 – #6

WIP Stream 2.3 – 2.0, #15 – #15

WPEN-FM 1.5 – 1.2, #21 – #22 (76ers, Flyers)

Public Radio News/Talk

WHYY 3.1 – 3.3, #10 – #12      

Note: Sports talk WIP’s -1.3 (7.0 – 5.7) represents Philadelphia’s highest (6+) January 2024 – February 2024 decrease. 

NASSAU-SUFFOLK (LONG ISLAND)

News/Talk

WABC 1.5 – 1.8, #18 – #17

WOR 1.1 – 1.2, #19 – #19

WLIR .1 – .2, #32 – #27

News

WINS-FM 4.8 – 5.1, #5 – #3

WCBS-AM 2.2 – 1.7, #15 – #18

WINS-FM Stream 1.0 – .7, #20 – #23

Business News WBBR .3 – .4, #26 – #26

WCBS-AM Stream .1 – .2, #32 – #27

Sports Talk

WFAN-FM & AM 4.6 – 2.7, #7 – #12 (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WFAN-FM & AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)

Public Radio News/Talk

WSUF .3 – .2, #26 – #27

Note: Sports talk WFAN’s -1.9 (4.6 – 2.7) represents the highest (6+) January 2024 – February 2024 decrease by any station in these 12 PPM-markets.

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk

None

News

KFOO .1 – DNA, #21 – DNA

Sports Talk

KPWK .1 – .5, #21 – #19

Public Radio News/Talk

KVCR .4 – .5 #20 – #19

KPCC DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

SAN JOSE

News/Talk

KSFO 1.8 – 2.1, #20 – #15

KSFO Stream DNA – .2, DNA – #30  

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 5.2 – 5.4, #4 – #4

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream DNA – .3, DNA – #26

KNEW .2 – .3, #28 – #26  

Sports Talk

KNBR 4.7 – 3.6, #5 – #7

KGMZ 2.8 – 2.0, #10 – #19 (Golden State Warriors)

KGO Stream .8 – .3, #26 – #26  

KTCT .3 – .3, #27 – #26   

KGO .2 – .2, #28 – #30  

KGMZ Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Golden State Warriors) 

Public Radio News/Talk

None 

Notes: Sports talk KNBR’s -1.1 (4.7 – 3.6) represents San Jose’s highest (6+) January 2024 – February 2024 decrease.

Sharks’ games are carried on the Sharks Audio Network.

MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION 

News/Talk

WKXW 7.4 – 7.2, #1 – #2

WOR 2.7 – 3.6, #9 – #9

WKXW Stream .8 – 1.1, #20 – #18    

News

WINS-FM 2.7 – 2.4, #9 – #11

WCBS-AM .9 – .8, #19 – #19

WINS-FM Stream .5 – .5, #22 – #23

WCBS-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WFAN-FM & AM 2.7 – 2.9, #9 – #10 (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WFAN FM & AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)

Public Radio News/Talk

None 

Up next: February 2024 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

New York City radio personality Jim Kerr – host of the “Jim Kerr Rock and Roll Morning Show” on iHeartMedia’s Q104.3 – is celebrating 50 years on the air in the Big Apple. Kerr began hosting morning radio in New York City on March 18, 1974. The station is planning a week of special events to commemorate Kerr’s incredible achievement.

Triton Digital announces its partnership with ID5 to introduce rich audience data to Triton’s Audio Marketplace. Triton says this partnership will improve advertising targeting and addressability in the audio space while complying with privacy regulations globally. Triton chief product officer Benjamin Masse says, “ID5’s ID technology is transforming how the advertising world operates through the creation of listener profiles and its privacy-first approach. Providing access to these listener profiles, supported by rich data, will enhance the value of the inventory available in the Triton Digital Audio Marketplace. We are encouraged by the promising results we have witnessed so far and are excited to be partnering with ID5 to bring this technology to more advertisers.”

PodcastOne announces the extension of its partnership with A+E Networks for the exclusive sales and distribution rights to true crime podcasts “Cold Case Files” and “I Survived.” As part of the agreement, the two media companies will expand their relationship and introduce two new podcasts based on A&E’s long-running television programs, “American Justice” and “City Confidential.”

Industry News

Radio Pro Ron St. Pierre Dies Unexpectedly

Rhode Island native and longtime programmer and air personality Ron St. Pierre died on Monday (3/11)im at age 69 after suffering a heart attack. St. Pierre served with WABC, New York during his career but worked much of his career in Rhode Island radio and TV. He programmed talk outlets including WPRO-AM, WHJJ-AM, and sports talk WPRV-AM in Providence and anchored sports on WPRI-TV, Providence. He is a member of both the Rhode Island Radio and Television and the City of Pawtucket Halls of Fame. He is survived by his wife Patti. Read the RINewsToday.com obit here.

Industry News

TALKERS 2024: Radio and Beyond Set for Friday, June 7

im

TALKERS 2024, the 27th annual edition of the talk media industry’s longest-running and most important national conference is set and going to be one of the storied event’s most important installments. The power-packed, one-day event will again be presented by TALKERS on Friday, June 7, 2024, on the campus of Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York in association with the prestigious university’s multi-award-winning station WRHU Radio. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison says, “We are delighted to be able to join forces again with our colleagues at Hofstra – the site of our very successful 2023, 2022, 2021 and 2016 events – and enjoy the remarkable resources that its Lawrence Herbert School of Communication brings to the table.” TALKERS 2024 will boldly address key issues – some existential – facing the talk radio and talk media industries at this dramatically critical juncture of rapidly accelerating technological and societal change as well as identifying the remarkable opportunities inherent in these developments. The focus, as always, will be on talk radio and its changing relationship with the larger arena of “audio” and “video” including podcasting, satellite, and digital venues. News/talk, sports talk, all-news, and general talk will be amply covered. The conference will also provide participants with unique and powerful networking opportunities. There will be over 50 top industry speakers and registration will be limited to insure intimacy. Attendance at the conference is limited to members of the working media and directly associated industries as well as communication students enrolled in accredited learning institutions. All attendees will be required to register in advance on the phone payable by credit card. Because attendance will be limited and the agenda outstanding, the conference is again expected to be an early sellout. The all-inclusive registration fee covering convention events, exhibits, food, and services for the day is $379. Take advantage of the early bird fee of $279 available until 5:00 pm ET on Friday, March 15. Because space will be limited and a sellout is anticipated, all registrations are non-refundable. To register for TALKERS 2024 or to obtain sponsorship information, call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413. Nearby hotel information will be posted here shortly.

Industry News

Joey Reynolds Recovering from Fall

im

Radio personality Joey Reynolds is pictured here at a New York hospital recovering from a fall at his Manhattan apartment on February 28. Reynolds’ friend Art Vuolo tells TALKERS thatim Reynolds fell from his bed, head-first onto a hardwood floor where remained in various stages of unconsciousness for more than 20 hours before being found by his landlord. Vuolo will travel to New York in two weeks. Well-wishers may send cards for Reynolds to: PO Box 55 Walled Lake, MI 48390. Emails are being collected by Vuolo at artvuolo@aol.com. Pictured with Reynolds here are: Reynolds’ daughter Kristen Marti on his right and friend Karen King behind Reynolds’ sister Judy.

Industry Views

SABO SEZ: Award the Future

By Walter Sabo
Consultant, Sabo Media Implementers
A.K.A. Walter Sterling
Radio Host, “Sterling On Sunday”
Talk Media Network

imWhen reviewing our industry’s awards such as the Crystals or Marconis there are two categories missing. They are: “Best New” and “Best Innovation.” Imagine if winners were announced for these prizes:

“Best New Talent On Air”

“Best New Talent Off Air”

“Most Creative Sales Solution”

“Most Creative Station Promotion”

“Most Innovative DAB or Podcast Format”

“Best New Talent – Podcast”

“Best Innovation In Engineering”

Those awards aren’t fantasy, they are actual awards given annually by Australian Commercial Radio (ACRA). They are presented at a magnificent well-produced event for the entire country – attendance is SRO. The subliminal message to Australian radio personnel is powerful: Innovation is expected and rewarded. NEW is expected and rewarded – no need to wait for you to become legendary (!) to be recognized. “NEW” is a powerful reward and promise to the talent you hope will find a career in radio. Face it, our “on boarding” leaves a lot to be desired. (Hey, work in the promotion department while you live at home, and we’ll let you pick up pizza that you can share!)

The best gift the late PD Al Brady Law gave me was he greeted all new ideas with, “It might work.” Most other executives kill innovative thought with the worst question possible: “Who else is doing it?” The industry has a lame record of assessing new ideas. New ideas are systematically despised:

Bill Drake’s format was damned in jock-for-hire classifieds that warned, NO DRAKE JOCKS. Yes, dozens of stations wanted NO DRAKE JOCKS. Quickly Drake’s strategies slaughtered those stations and revolutionized music formats to this moment. Recorded music on the radio was actually thought to be illegal until WNEW-AM, New York fought that court fight in the 1940s and won. All news on WINS and WCBS certainly was not going to work after the 1960s New York newspaper strike ended. WFAN could never succeed as an all-sports station – soon after launch it became the highest biller in NYC.

When AC was launched in 1978 at the NBC FM and RKO FM stations, it had no future. FM was only for beautiful music and hard rock and besides who else is doing it?

Album rock, AOR, …why we have research to prove young people only want hits! Targeted FM talk – combining a hot format with hot talent would absolutely fail at KLSX-FM, Los Angeles and thanks to Bob Moore became the number one local biller – turn it back to the failed classic rock format please begged one research hit squad! “New Jersey 101.5” has a one million cume talking all week, playing music all weekend. Which award category suits that giant station? “Best New” would have been appreciated.

Todd Storz, the inventor of Top 40, passed away at 38 and his father who owned their stations in Miami, Omaha, and New Orleans couldn’t wait to change his Top 40 format creation to MOR when the kid died. As a result, when Todd died the stations died, too.

Innovators like Bill Drake, Jeff SmulyanAllen ShawBob McAllanAlan MasonL. David Moorhead, and Howard Stern are first ignored, then marginalized, then vilified… then hundreds fight for their credit.

The only way radio stays relevant and grows its place on the media landscape is with a constant flow of “Best New” and “Best Innovation.” That’s when younger listeners are attracted to radio – the same way they are attracted to everything – if it’s NEW. The radio you and your friends were drawn to, talked about at school, listened to constantly was saturated with new contests, new daring DJs, new promotions, new hits, new energy.

The delicious daily challenge of on-air talent and management is what can we put on the air today that has never been done before? If it’s new, even if it doesn’t work forever, generates buzz, attention, youthful audiences.  Of course, 20-year-olds will listen to radio, it’s at the end of their arm! But they are not going to salivate at the promise of “20 of your favorites from the 80s, 90s and today.” Or a national contest.

Why not test a NEW award in just one awards category? “Best Innovation in Engineering” The Marconi Award.

Walter Sabo is a leading media industry consultant and syndicated talk radio personality.  He can be emailed at Walter@Sabomedia.com. Website: www.waltersterlingshow.com

Industry News

Round One of January PPMs Released

imThe first of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s January 2024 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). The survey period covered January 4 – 31. 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 adds half a share to finish with a 3.5 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) and remains ranked #11, while iHeartMedia’s news/talk WOR-AM rises half a share to a 1.7 share that lifts it to the #17 rank. In Los Angeles, iHeartMedia’s news/talk KFI adds nine-tenths for a 4.5 share finish good for the #3 rank in the market. In Chicago, Nexstar Media Group’s news/talk WGN-AM is up a half share, finishing with a 3.1 share and the #10 rank, while Cumulus Media Group’s news/talk WLS-AM rises two-tenths to a 1.9 share and moves up one spot to the #18 rank. And in Atlanta, Cox Media Group’s WSB-AM/WSBB-FM claims the #1 rank after rising 1.2 shares to an 8.6 share. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

Ratings Takeaways

January 2024 PPM Ratings – Part One

imJanuary 2024 PPM Data – Information for the January 2024 ratings period (January 4 – January 31) 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 (New Jersey).

The only requirement for a spoken-word station to be included here is that they be a Nielsen Audio subscriber – there are no share or rank thresholds.

NBA and NHL team names of corresponding spoken-word flagship(s) are bolded.

DNA – DNA = Did Not Appear – Does Not Appear

Comparisons are “Holiday” 2023 – January 2024 (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk

WABC 3.0 – 3.5, #11 – #11

WOR 1.2 – 1.7, #21 – #17

WKXW .8 – 1.0, #27 – #24

WKXW Stream .2 – .3, #37 – #35

News

WINS-FM 3.9 – 4.7, #9 – #6

WCBS-AM 1.6 – 1.7, #19 – #17

WINS-FM Stream .4 – .5, #32 – #27

Business News WBBR .3 – .4, #34 – #31

WCBS-AM Stream .1 – .2, #46 – #39 

Sports Talk

WFAN FM & AM 2.3 – 2.7, #12 -#13 (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WFAN FM & AM Stream .7 – .8, #28 -#25 (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM 1.2 – DNA #21 – DNA (Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)

Public Radio News/Talk

WNYC-FM 4.1 – 4.5, #7 – #7

WNYC-AM 1.0 – 1.2, #23 – #22 

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk

KFI 4.6 – 5.5, #4 – #3

KEIB .4 – .8, #30 – #33  (Clippers)

KRLA .4 – .6, #30 – #34  

News

KNX-FM 2.5 – 2.8, #12 – #12

KNX-FM Stream .1 – .2, #40 – #39  

Sports Talk

KLAC .8 – .9, #28 – #32 (Clippers 

Public Radio News/Talk

KPCC 2.0 – 2.3, #14 – #15

Notes: News/talk KFI’s +.9 (4.6 – 5.5) represents a tie for Los Angeles’ highest (6+) Holiday 2023 – January 2024 increase.

Flagship of the Lakers is sports talk KSPN, which is unlisted in this sweep.

Kings’ games are heard on the iHeartRadio app, while games of the Anaheim Ducks are heard on the Ducks stream.

CHICAGO

News/Talk

WGN 2.6 – 3.1, #11 – #10  (Blackhawks)

WLS-AM 1.7 – 1.9, #19 – #18

WLIP .3 – .4, #38 – #35

WVON .1 – .1, #43 – #41

WLS-AM Stream DNA – .1, DNA – #41

News

WBBM-AM & WCFS 4.9 – 6.2, #4  – #2

WBBM-AM & WCFS Stream .1 – .2, #43 – #38

Sports Talk

WSCR 2.5 – 3.4, #12 – #8 (Bulls)

WMVP 1.5 – 1.5, #20 – #20

WSCR Stream .4 – .6, #36 – #32 (Bulls) 

Public Radio News/Talk

WBEZ 2.1 – 2.7, #15 – #13  

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk

KSFO 1.4 – 1.5, #22 – #22

KSFO Stream .2 – .3, #32 – #30 

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 5.7 – 6.6, #3 – #3

KNEW .3 – .3, #29 – #30  

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream .1 – DNA, #38 – DNA

KKSF DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

Sports Talk

KNBR 3.6 – 3.9, #7 – #6

KGMZ 2.0 – 2.4, #14 – #14 (Golden State Warriors)

KGO .2 – .2, #32 – #34  

KGO Stream .2 – .2, #32 – #34  

KTCT .4 – .2, #27 – #34  

KGMZ Stream .2 – DNA, #32 – DNA (Golden State Warriors)

Public Radio News/Talk

KQED 6.9 – 7.9, #2 – #2

KALW .2 – .3, #32 – #30

Note: Sports talk KNBR is the flagship of the 49ers, which lost to the Chiefs in the Super Bowl.

DALLAS

News/Talk

WBAP 2.8 – 3.7, #14 – #9

KEGL 1.4 – 1.2, #27 – #29  (Mavericks)

KSKY .6 – .6, #33 – #32

KLIF-AM .4 – .5, #34 – #33

KSKY Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

News

News – Talk KRLD-AM 1.4 – 1.7, #27 – #24

News – Talk KRLD-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

KTCK 4.2 – 5.6, #3 – #1  (Stars)

KRLD-FM 2.9 – 2.8, #13 – #17

KRLD-FM Stream .3 – .4, #35 – #35

Public Radio News/Talk

KERA 3.5 – 4.0, #6 – #7  

Note: Sports/talk KTCK’s +1.4 (4.2 – 5.6) represents Dallas’ highest (6+) Holiday 2023 – January 2024 increase.

HOUSTON 

News/Talk

KTRH 2.6 – 3.6, #17 – #9  (Rockets)

KPRC . 5 – .3, #28 – #28  

News

None

Sports Talk

KILT-AM 1.5 – 1.6, #21 – #21

KBME .6 – .6, #27 – #27  (Rockets)

KILT-AM Stream .3 – .3, #30 – #28

KFNC .2 – .2, #31 – #33

Public Radio News/Talk

KUHF 2.4 – 2.8, #18 – #19

ATLANTA

News/Talk

WSB-AM & WSBB 7.4– 8.6, #2 – #1

WFOM .4 – .6, #27 – #27

WGKA .1 – .3, #31 – #30

WAOK .1 – .2, #31 – #31

WAOK Stream DNA – .1, DNA – #36

WSRV-HD3 Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

WBIN  DNA – .1, DNA – #36

Sports Talk

WZGC 3.5 – 4.2, #9 – #8 (Hawks)

WCNN 1.4 – 2.2, #20 – #16

WZGC Stream .3 – .8, #29 – #24 (Hawks)

Public Radio News/Talk

WABE 3.3 – 4.0, #11 – #9

WRAS  .8 – .7, #24 – #25

WABE-HD3 DNA – .1, DNA – #36 

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk

WPHT 1.7 – 2.2, #19 – #16

WKXW 1.2 – 1.3, #23 – #23

WPHT Stream .7 – .7, #26 – #26

WURD .3 – .4, #27 – #28

WURD Stream .2 – .2, #29 – #30

WDEL-AM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

WKXW Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

KYW & WPHI 4.7 – 6.2, #6 – #5

KYW & WPHI Stream .1 – .1, #30 – #32

WTEL DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WIP 5.7 – 7.0, #4 – #4

WIP Stream 1.5 – 2.3, #20 – #15

WPEN-FM 1.3 – 1.5, #22 – #21 (76ers, Flyers)

Public Radio News/Talk

WHYY 2.8 – 3.1, #9 – #10      

NASSAU-SUFFOLK (LONG ISLAND)

News/Talk

WABC 1.1 – 1.5, #20 – #18

WOR 1.0 – 1.1, #22 – #19

WLIR .1 – .1, #35 – #32

News

WINS-FM 3.3 – 4.8, #9 – #5

WCBS-AM 2.5 – 2.2, #12 – #15

WINS-FM Stream .9 – 1.0, #23 – #20

Business News WBBR .2 – .3, #30 – #26

WCBS-AM Stream .1 – .1, #35 – #32

Sports Talk

WFAN-FM & AM 3.5 – 4.6, #7 – #7 (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WFAN-FM & AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM 2.7 – DNA, #11 – DNA (Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)

Public Radio News/Talk

WSUF .2 – .3, #30 – #26

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk

None

News

KFOO DNA – .1, DNA – #21

Sports Talk

KPWK .2 – .1, #18 – #21

Public Radio News/Talk

KVCR .3 – .4 #16 – #20

KPCC DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

SAN JOSE

News/Talk

KSFO 1.5 – 1.8, #19 – #20

KSFO Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA  

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 4.5 – 5.2, #4 – #4

KNEW .3 – .2, #28 – #28  

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream .2 – DNA, #30 – DNA

Sports Talk

KNBR 3.9 – 4.7, #6 – #5

KGMZ 1.5 – 2.8, #19 – #10 (Golden State Warriors)

KGO Stream .7 – .8, #26 – #26  

KTCT .8 – .3, #25 – #27   

KGO .3 – .2, #28 – #28  

KGMZ Stream .2 – DNA, #30 – DNA (Golden State Warriors)

Public Radio News/Talk

None 

Notes: Sports/talk KGMZ’s +1.3 (1.5 – 2.8) represents San Jose’s highest (6+) Holiday 2023 – January 2024 increase.

Sports talk KNBR is the flagship of the 49ers, which lost to the Chiefs in the Super Bowl.

Sharks’ games are carried on the Sharks Audio Network.

MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION 

News/Talk

WKXW 5.7 – 7.4, #4 – #1

WOR 1.6 – 2.7, #15 – #9

WKXW Stream .7 – .8, #20 – #20    

News

WINS-FM 1.8 – 2.7, #13 – #9

WCBS-AM 1.0 – .9, #18 – #19

WINS-FM Stream .3 – .5, #23 – #22

WCBS-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WFAN-FM & AM DNA – 2.7, DNA – #9 (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WFAN FM & AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM 1.0 – DNA, #18 – DNA (Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)

Public Radio News/Talk

None 

Note: News/talk WKXW’s +1.7 (5.7 – 7.4) represents Middlesex-Somerset-Union’s highest (6+)Holiday 2023 – January 2024 increase. 

Up next: January 2024 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry News

Frank Morano Added to KMOX, St. Louis Lineup

Red Apple Audio Networks nationally syndicated overnight talk host Frank Morano’s program is added to the nightly lineup at Audacy’s heritage news/talk KMOX, St. Louis. “The Other Side of Midnight with Frank Morano” airs on the station from 1:00 am to 5:00 am. KMOX brand manager Steve Mooreim states, “We are excited to air ‘The Other Side of Midnight with Frank Morano.’ We were looking for a live, informative, interactive and entertaining show that will rekindle the joy of overnight radio.” Morano comments, “I’m excited to join the KMOX lineup and bring live programming to overnights in St. Louis. St. Louis is a terrific market and KMOX is a legendary talk station, with an incredible audience and history that goes back nearly a century. I’m looking forward to being a big part of their history when the chapter on their next century is written. We’re going to have a blast.”

Industry News

NYC Radio Legend Richard Neer is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast

Long-running sports talk radio WFAN, New York personality Richard Neer is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Inspired by the approach of the United Nations’ World Radio Day 2024 on February 13, Harrison and Neer – whose careers and friendship date back to 1967 at WLIR-FM, Long Island which they launched as an historic progressive rocker – engage in an analytical conversation about the evolving role of the medium as it continues into its second century of service as a provider of information, education and entertainment. Eclipsed only by WABC’s “Cousin” Bruce Morrow, Neer is arguably the second-longest continuously running radio personality in the New York radio market, which he entered with Harrison at legendary music station WNEW-FM in 1971. A prolific author, he penned the landmark FM: The Rise and Fall of Rock Radio (Villard 2001) as well as the successful ongoing Riley King murder mystery series. Harrison states, “I always enjoy having Richard on the podcast – we have shared so much history together. He has valuable insights into the past, present and future of radio – as well as music, sports and popular culture –bringing his experience as a top personality and program director in multiple formats to the table.” Listen to the podcast here

Industry News

Round One of Holiday 2023 PPM Ratings Released

imThe first of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s Holiday 2023 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey). The ratings period covered December 7, 2023 – January 3, 2024. 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 adds two-tenths to finish with a 3.0 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) and remains ranked #11, while iHeartMedia’s news/talk WOR tacks on one-tenth for a 1.2 share finish good for the #21 rank, and Audacy’s all-news WINS-FM falls two-tenths to a 3.9 share but rises to the #9 rank. In Los Angeles, iHeartMedia news/talk KFI loses half a share to finish with a 4.6 share pulling it from the #2 to the #4 rank, while Audacy’s all-news KNX-AM/FM loses two-tenths to finish with a 2.5 share good for the #12 rank. In Chicago, Nexstar Media Group’s news/talk WGN-AM dips two-tenths for a 2.6 share finish leaving it ranked #11, while Cumulus Media’s news/talk WLS-AM is steady at a 1.7 share good for the #19 rank, and Audacy’s all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM loses three-tenths to finish with a 4.9 share and remaining ranked #4. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways here.

Ratings Takeaways

Holiday 2023 PPM Ratings – Part One

imHoliday 2023 PPM Data – Information for the Holiday 2023 ratings period (December 7, 2023 – January 3, 2024) 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 (New Jersey).

The only requirement for a spoken-word station to be included here is that they be a Nielsen Audio subscriber – there are no share or rank thresholds.

NFL; NBA; and NHL team names of corresponding spoken-word flagship(s) are bolded.

DNA – DNA = Did Not Appear – Does Not Appear

Comparisons are December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk

WABC 2.8 – 3.0, #11 – #11

WOR 1.1 – 1.2, #22 – #21

WKXW .9 – .8, #24 – #27

WKXW Stream .2 – .2, #38 – #37

News

WINS-FM 4.1 – 3.9, #10 – #9

WCBS-AM 1.7 – 1.6, #19 – #19

WINS-FM Stream .3 – .4, #36 – #32

Business News WBBR .4 – .3, #32 – #34

WCBS-AM Stream .2 – .1, #38 – #46 

Sports Talk

WFAN FM & AM 2.5 – 2.3, #12 -#12 (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM 1.3 – 1.2 #21 – #21 (Jets, Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)

WFAN FM & AM Stream .9 – .7, #24 -#28 (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils) 

Public Radio News/Talk

WNYC-FM 4.3 – 4.1, #8 – #7

WNYC-AM 1.0 – 1.0, #23 – #23 

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk

KFI 5.1 – 4.6, #2 – #4

KRLA .6 – .4, #34 – #30

KEIB .5 – .4, #35 – #30  (Clippers 

News

KNX-FM 2.7 – 2.5, #11 – #12

KNX-FM Stream .1 – .1, #41 – #40  

Sports Talk

KLAC 1.0 – . #29 – #28 (Chargers, Clippers 

Public Radio News/Talk

KPCC 2.6 – 2.0, #12 – #14

Notes: Public radio news/talk KPCC’s -.6 (2.6 – 2.0) represents a tie for Los Angeles’ highest (6+)December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 decrease.

Flagship of the Rams and Lakers is sports talk KSPN, which is unlisted in this sweep.

Kings’ games are heard on the iHeartRadio app, while games of the Anaheim Ducks are heard on the Ducks stream.

CHICAGO

News/Talk

WGN 2.8 – 2.6, #10 – #11  (Blackhawks)

WLS-AM 1.7 – 1.7, #18 – #19

WLIP .4 – .3, #36 – #38

WVON .1 – .1, #43 – #43

WLS-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

WBBM-AM & WCFS 5.2 – 4.9, #4  – #4

WBBM-AM & WCFS Stream .2 – .1, #41 – #43

Sports Talk

WSCR 2.4 – 2.5, #13 – #12 (Bulls)

WMVP 1.4 – 1.5, #20 – #20 (Bears)

WSCR Stream .9 – .4, #27 – #36 (Bulls)

Public Radio News/Talk

WBEZ 2.6 – 2.1, #12 – #15  

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk

KSFO 1.4 – 1.4, #22 – #22

KSFO Stream .2 – .2, #31 – #32 

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 6.4 – 5.7, #3 – #3

KNEW .2 – .3, #31 – #29  

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream .1 – .1, #37 – #38

KKSF DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

Sports Talk

KNBR 3.5 – 3.6, #10 – #7 (49ers)

KGMZ 2.3 – 2.0, #14 – #14 (Golden State Warriors)

KTCT .5 – .4, #27 – #27  

KGO .2 – .2, #31 – #32  

KGO Stream .2 – .2, #31 – #32  

KGMZ Stream DNA – .2, DNA – #32 (Golden State Warriors)   

Public Radio News/Talk

KQED 6.6 – 6.9, #2 – #2

KALW .2 – .2, #31 – #32

DALLAS

News/Talk

WBAP 3.4 – 2.8, #11 – #14

KEGL 1.5 – 1.4, #26 – #27  (Mavericks)

KSKY .5 – .6, #33 – #33

KLIF-AM .3 – .4, #36 – #34

KSKY Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

News

News – Talk KRLD-AM 1.8 – 1.4, #20 – #27 (Cowboys)

News – Talk KRLD-AM Stream .1 – DNA, #40 – DNA (Cowboys)

Sports Talk

KTCK 5.2 – 4.2, #2 – #3  (Stars)

KRLD-FM 3.4 – 2.9, #11 – #13 (Cowboys)

KRLD-FM Stream .2 – .3, #37 – #35 (Cowboys)

Public Radio News/Talk

KERA 4.2 – 3.5, #4 – #6  

Note: Sports talk KTCK’s -1.0 (5.2 – 4.2) represents Dallas’ highest (6+) December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 decrease.

HOUSTON

News/Talk

KTRH 3.5 – 2.6, #10 – #17  (Rockets)

KPRC . 5 – .5, #26 – #28  

News

None

Sports Talk

KILT-AM 1.5 – 1.5, #21 – #21 (Texans)

KBME .5 – .6, #26 – #27  (Rockets)

KILT-AM Stream .3 – .3, #29 – #30 (Texans)

KFNC .1 – .2, #33 – #31

Public Radio News/Talk

KUHF 2.3 – 2.4, #20 – #18

ATLANTA

News/Talk

WSB-AM & WSBB 8.3 – 7.4, #1 – #2

WFOM .4 – .4, #29 – #27

WGKA .2 – .1, #31 – #31

WAOK .2 – .1, #31 – #31

WAOK Stream .1 – .1, #33 – #31

WSRV-HD3 Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

WBIN  DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WZGC 2.8 – 3.5, #15 – #9 (Falcons, Hawks)

WCNN 1.5 – 1.4, #20 – #20

WZGC Stream .5 – .3, #27 – #29 (Falcons, Hawks)

Public Radio News/Talk

WABE 3.9 – 3.3, #8 – #11

WRAS  .6 – .8, #25 – #24

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk

WPHT 1.7 – 1.7, #19 – #19

WKXW .9 – 1.2, #24 – #23

WPHT Stream .6 – .7, #27 – #26

WURD .5 – .3, #28 – #27

WURD Stream .7 – .2, #26 – #29

WDEL-AM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

WKXW Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

News

KYW & WPHI 5.2 – 4.7, #7 – #6

KYW & WPHI Stream .1 – .1, #31 – #30

WTEL .1 – DNA, #31 – DNA

Sports Talk

WIP 6.6 – 5.7, #4 – #4 (Eagles)

WIP Stream 1.3 – 1.5, #22 – #20 (Eagles)

WPEN-FM 1.2 – 1.3, #23 – #22 (76ers, Flyers)

Public Radio News/Talk

WHYY 2.8 – 2.8, #11 – #9      

Notes: Adult contemporary WBEB makes the largest (6+) December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 increase(+7.3) of any station in these 12 PPM-markets and logs the highest (6+) share (16.8).

Conversely, country WXTU has the most significant (6+) December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 decline of any station in these 12 PPM-markets (5.3 – 3.7, -1.6). 

NASSAU-SUFFOLK (LONG ISLAND)

News/Talk

WABC 1.3 – 1.1, #20 – #20

WOR 1.0 – 1.0, #22 – #22

WLIR .2 – .1, #33 – #35

News

WINS-FM 4.4 – 3.3, #8 – #9

WCBS-AM 2.1 – 2.5, #16 – #12

WINS-FM Stream .7 – .9, #25 – #23

Business News WBBR .3 – .2, #30 – #30

WCBS-AM Stream .1 – .1, #36 – #35

Sports Talk

WFAN-FM & AM 3.7 – 3.5, #10 – #7 (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM 2.5 – 2.7, #12 – #11 (Jets, Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)

WFAN-FM & AM Stream 1.1 – DNA, #21 – DNA (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

Public Radio News/Talk

WSUF .2 – .2, #33 – #30

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk

None

News

KFOO .1 – DNA, #23 – DNA

Sports Talk

KPWK .2 – .2, #21 – #18

Public Radio News/Talk

KVCR .3 – .3 #20 – #16

KPCC DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

SAN JOSE

News/Talk

KSFO 1.3 – 1.5, #22 – #19

KSFO Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA  

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 5.7 – 4.5, #3 – #4

KNEW .2 – .3, #28 – #28  

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream .2 – .2, #28 – #30

Sports Talk

KNBR 4.1 – 3.9, #6 – #6 (49ers)

KGMZ 1.6 – 1.5, #20 – #19 (Golden State Warriors)

KTCT .6 – .8, #26 – #25   

KGO Stream .6 – .7, #26 – #26  

KGO .2 – .3, #28 – #28  

KGMZ Stream DNA – .2, DNA – #30 (Golden State Warriors)

Public Radio News/Talk

None

Notes: News KCBS-AM & KFRC’s -1.2 (5.7 – 4.5) represents San Jose’s highest (6+) December 2023 – “Holiday” 2023 decrease. 

Sharks’ games are carried on the Sharks Audio Network.

MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION 

News/Talk

WKXW 5.2 – 5.7, #4 – #4

WOR 1.1 – 1.6, #20 – #15

WKXW Stream .7 – .7, #22 – #20         

News

WINS-FM 2.0 – 1.8, #11 – #13

WCBS-AM 1.3 – 1.0, #17 – #18

WINS-FM Stream .3 – .3, #26 – #23

WCBS-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

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Industry News

Spike Eskin to Return to Philly as WIP PM Drive Co-Host

Audacy announces that Spike Eskin will return to sports talk WIP-FM, Philadelphia “SportsRadio 94WIP” as afternoon drive co-host alongside Ike Reese and on-air producer Jack Fritz. Eskin will leave his current position as vice president of programming for WFAN, New York and CBS Sports Radio andim re-join WIP once a successor is named. Audacy says a nationwide search is currently underway. The WIP co-host position opened after Jon Marks announced his exit from the station for personal reasons in December. Audacy Philadelphia SVP and market manager David Yadgaroff says, “We’re very excited to bring Spike home to Philadelphia and SportsRadio 94WIP. This is a unique opportunity to add a great talent with a long history in our marketplace to one of our most popular dayparts, and we’re looking forward to having Spike reunite with his longtime friend and colleague Ike Reese and Jack Fritz to shape the future of afternoon drive at WIP.” Eskin comments, “I am thrilled to be able to work with Ike and Jack in afternoons at 94WIP. It’s now the third job of a lifetime I’ve had the opportunity to do. Leaving WFAN and CBS Sports Radio is an incredibly difficult decision. I’m surrounded by talented, great people, and it’s been an amazing experience. I’d like to thank David Yadgaroff, Jeff Sottolano and Rod Lakin for this opportunity, and Chris Oliviero for my time in New York.”