Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

KIRO-FM Debuts Home Improvement Show. Bonneville’s KIRO-FM, Seattle “Newsradio 97.3 FM” will launch “Inside Out with Tami Michaels” on August 8 airing from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. KIRO says the home improvement show will bring listeners an entertaining and informative mix of interior design trends, practical how-to advice, innovative home and lifestyle products and services, pet topics, and more.

WPEN-FM Becomes “97.5 LeBron – Home of King James.” Following Friday’s news that LeBron James is joining the Philadelphia 76ers, Beasley’s sport talk WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” is celebrating by temporarily rebranding the station “97.5 LeBron… Home of King James!” Program director Scott Masteller comments, “These are the moments sports radio is built for. Philadelphia has been waiting for this day, and every conversation is about LeBron and the Sixers. From the first show this morning through the final segment tonight, we’re bringing fans everything they need to know about one of the biggest stories in NBA history.”

Industry News

Bonneville Seattle and Premier Media Group Announce Content Deal

Bonneville Seattle begins a partnership with the Premier Media Group that will allow Bonneville’s local news destination MyNorthwest.com to share select content from Premier Media imgGroup’s network of magazines. Bonneville Seattle SVP Cathy Cangiano says, “We’re excited to partner with Premier Media Group to bring compelling, high-quality content to our audiences across the Pacific Northwest. By combining the trusted brands of KIRO Newsradio and MyNorthwest.com with Premier Media Group’s exceptional storytelling, we’re creating new ways to inform, inspire, and engage our communities.” 

Industry News

Gregg Bell Returns to KJR-AM, Seattle

Sports media personality Gregg Bell is returning to iHeartMedia’s “KJR Sports Radio” as host of the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon program. This comes a week after talk host Marc James exited the station. The new program, “The Gregg Bell Show with Christopher Kidd” leads into “The imgIan Furness Show,” which moves to an earlier start by an hour. The Seattle Times notes that Bell has covered the Seahawks for the Tacoma News Tribune since 2014, and Kidd is an executive producer with KJR who co-hosts the “Seahawks Man 2 Man” podcast. Bell comments about working Kidd, saying, “We have great rapport. I value his input. He’s a Seattle kid, born and raised, and a Coug. He’s a little younger than I am, so that gives another perspective.” See the Seattle Times’ coverage here.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Part-Time News Staffer in Seattle

Lotus Seattle is looking for an experienced part-time news anchor, reporter, and news editor for all-news KNWN “Northwest Newsradio 97-7, AM 1000.” The ideal candidate will help prepare and deliver engagingimg news content, report on breaking news events, serve as board operator for special programming, and produce special projects and programming as assigned. This position does feature regular hours of board operator work, writing, producing, as well as anchoring newscasts. On occasion the position will offer extra hours during the week to cover shifts for those who are ill or on vacation. Learn more and apply here.

Industry News

Lotus Names New Managers for Seattle Stations

Lotus Communications names Andrew Adams as general manager for its Seattle stations that includes news/talk KVI-AM, all-news KNWNimg-AM/FM and country KPLZ-FM. At the same time, the company announces that Jeff Connell is the new director of operations & brand management. Adams most recently served with Stephens Media Group in Spokane. Connell rises from his role as regional PD for KPLZ and KTHI-FM, Boise. In his new role, Connell will give up his programming role at KTHI.

Industry News

Judge Rules Against Talk Hosts Denied Washington State Capitol Press Access

A trio of conservative media figures – including KVI, Seattle afternoon drive host Ari Hoffman – failed in their bid to get a temporary restraining order that would force the state legislature in Washington to give them access to parts of the Capitol building only accessible to bona fideimg journalists. The attorney for Hoffman and co-litigants Brandi Kruse and Jonathan Choe argued that the “process used to deny them press credentials was vague and arbitrarily applied, violating their due-process rights, and withholding access because of they disagree with the lawmakers’ political views violates their constitutional rights of free speech and free press.” U.S. District Judge David Estudillo denied the TRO, saying, “The three failed to show that they are likely to succeed on their free press or due process claims, and the ‘House has a substantial interest in ensuring the reporters it permits to access the House floor meet the credential standards promulgated so the House may debate and pass laws without interruption or lobbying in that space.’” This story, as reported by KSL-FM, Salt Lake City, says, “The Washington State Capitol Correspondents Association guidelines for granting press passes says the person must be ‘a bona fide journalist’ and there must be a line ‘between professional journalism and political or policy work.’ The association shifted the credentialing process to the Legislature after the three threatened a lawsuit in 2025. The Senate eventually issued the passes, but the House took over the process and denied the pass requests.” The three say they will appeal. See the KSL story here.

Industry News

KIRO-FM, Seattle Adds Chad Benson for Evenings

Bonneville’s KIRO Newsradio in Seattls is adding Radio America’s nationally syndicated “Chad Benson Show” to its daily lineup, airing fromimg 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm beginning tonight (2/2). KIRO-FM director of news and talk programming Bryan Buckalew states, “Chad has a unique ability to break down complex issues in a way that’s engaging and accessible. He respects the intelligence of the audience, values facts, and understands how to connect with listeners in a meaningful way. He’s a strong addition to our evening programming.”

Industry News

“Seattle Red” Adds Scott Jennings to Lineup

Bonneville’s conservative talk KTTH, Seattle “Seattle Red” adds Salem Radio Network’s Scott Jennings to its lineup airing from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Station program director Jason Antebi says, “Scott Jenningsimg is a fearless communicator with unmatched credibility. His experience, intelligence, and no-nonsense delivery make him a strong addition to our primetime lineup. Scott doesn’t just react to the news — he shapes the conversation and arms listeners with insight they can use.” Jennings comments, “I’m thrilled to join the lineup at Seattle Red! My mission is to debunk liberal narratives, bring forward blockbuster news-making conversations, and give the audience a daily dose of common sense. Can’t wait to be part of this terrific station!”

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Marketing/Promotions Coordinator

Lotus Seattle is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented marketing/promotions coordinator. Lotus says, “Thisimg role is vital to bringing our brand to life through on-air, digital, and community engagement initiatives. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working with people, and bring creative energy to our promotions and marketing efforts. See more about this position and apply here.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Marketing/Promotions Coordinator

Lotus Seattle is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented marketing/promotions coordinator. Lotus says, “Thisimg role is vital to bringing our brand to life through on-air, digital, and community engagement initiatives. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working with people, and bring creative energy to our promotions and marketing efforts. See more about this position and apply here.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Marketing/Promotions Coordinator

Lotus Seattle is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented marketing/promotions coordinator. Lotus says, “Thisimg role is vital to bringing our brand to life through on-air, digital, and community engagement initiatives. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working with people, and bring creative energy to our promotions and marketing efforts. See more about this position and apply here.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Marketing/Promotions Coordinator

Lotus Seattle is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented marketing/promotions coordinator. Lotus says, “Thisimg role is vital to bringing our brand to life through on-air, digital, and community engagement initiatives. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working with people, and bring creative energy to our promotions and marketing efforts. See more about this position and apply here.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Marketing/Promotions Coordinator

Lotus Seattle is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented marketing/promotions coordinator. Lotus says, “Thisimg role is vital to bringing our brand to life through on-air, digital, and community engagement initiatives. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working with people, and bring creative energy to our promotions and marketing efforts. See more about this position and apply here.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Marketing/Promotions Coordinator

Lotus Seattle is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented marketing/promotions coordinator. Lotus says, “Thisimg role is vital to bringing our brand to life through on-air, digital, and community engagement initiatives. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy working with people, and bring creative energy to our promotions and marketing efforts. See more about this position and apply here.

Industry News

Bonneville Rebrands KTTH as “Seattle Red”

Bonneville announces that news/talk KTTH-AM, Seattle is underscoring its conservative content as it rebrands the station as “Seattle Red.” Bonneville says, “Seattle Red’s identity reflects fresh conservative voices and growing influence in the Pacific Northwest. This transformation marks more than just a nameimg change; it’s the launch of a dynamic new digital platform delivering hard-hitting conservative news, thought provoking opinions, and exclusive investigative reports headlined by Jason Rantz. ‘Seattle Red’ will be the definitive home for conservative content, expanding our reach, sharpening our brand, and doubling down on our mission to challenge the status quo.” It adds, “At the heart of ‘Seattle Red’ is Jason Rantz, whose live and local content brings a distinctly Seattle perspective to issues that matter most.” KTTH program director Jason Antebi says, “Our new identity as Seattle Red introduces a thriving community and home for conservatives in the Pacific Northwest. We’re building a media platform that amplifies bold voices, breaks real news, and isn’t afraid to challenge the narrative.”

Industry News

Hubbard Names Beyer VP/ Market Manager for Seattle

Hubbard Radio names Nick Beyer the new VP/market manager for its Seattle cluster that includes alternative talk KKNW-AM, four music brands and the 2060 Digital Seattle office. Beyer began his radio career at theimg Hubbard Seattle stations (then owned by Sandusky) and rose through the ranks in promotions, sales, and on-air roles, and was selected for Hubbard’s inaugural NextGen Leadership program. Most recently, Beyer held senior sales leadership positions at CRISTA Media and iHeartMedia Seattle. Beyer says, “I’m incredibly honored to return to where it all began. Hubbard Radio Seattle is home, and I can’t wait to work with this amazing team to serve our listeners, clients, and community.”

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seeks Weekend Anchor/Editor/Reporter

Lotus Seattle is seeking an experienced weekend anchor/editor/reporter for all-news station KNWS-AM/FM, Seattle “Northwest Newsradio 97-7, AM 1000.” Lotus says, “The ideal candidate will help prepare and deliver engaging news content, report on breaking news events, and produce special projects and programming as assigned. This position at Northwest Newsradio is a vital news delivery and content creatorimg for our station. Your material is used throughout the day on several different broadcasts. This individual in this position is also an overall ambassador for our brand, and is expected to also work at special events, and alongside our sales staff promote the station to Northwest Newsradio clients. The perfect candidate has a minimum of two years’ experience in large market media, is proficient and aggressive in social media, is an excellent writer, and embraces using digital platforms (podcasting, streaming audio, streaming video) to promote the Northwest Newsradio brand. Candidates need to submit an audio demonstration of their on-air ability with their resume, along with a sample of radio news writing. Candidates should also be prepared to take a writing test if requested. Applications should be sent here.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seattle Seeks Promotions Staffers

Lotus Seattle Corp is seeking staff for its part-time Promotions Event Staff ON-CALL team members to work at station events and represent stations in a positive, professional manner. Lotus says, “This is a great opportunity to earn extra money by working at various stations’ events including local sporting events,img community events, retail/client events, local fairs and more. You will meet new people and engage with the public. Plus, interact with multi-media marketing pros to get an edge on your career with real world experience. This is a great job for all ages over the age of 18. If you are retired, a veteran, looking to fill some time on the weekends, in college looking for some extra part-time work or interested in the radio and television industry this is a great opportunity.” The position pays $21 per hour. Send your resume here.

Job Opportunity

Lotus Seattle Seeks Drive Time Anchor and General Sales Manager

Lotus Communications Seattle is seeking candidates for two positions. The company seeks an experienced drive time news anchor/reporter for KNWN “Northwest Newsradio 97-7, AM 1000.” Lotus says, “The ideal candidate will help prepare and deliver an engaging prime-time newscast as part of an on-air duo, then produce a compelling story to air in other newscasts… You are the voice of your assigned show andimg expected to anchor special news or breaking news coverage when it happens. This position becomes an overall ambassador for our brand, and is expected to also work at special events, and alongside our sales staff to promote the station to Northwest Newsradio clients and endorse their businesses if requested.” Candidates must submit a writing sample and an audio sample along with resume here.

Lotus is also seeking an experienced and results-driven broadcasting general sales manager. The position is responsible for delivering assigned revenue targets through managing sales team efforts, developing sales talent and monthly business planning. The General Sales Manager will maintain an account list while helping the sales team sell and develop cohesive campaigns for new direct businesses. Submit your resume here.

Industry News

Terry Fahy Retires from Salem

Salem Media Group announces that company executive Terry Fahy retires from the company he’s served for the past 43 years. Fahy began his career with Salem in 1982 as general manager of KDAR-FM and quickly rose through the ranks to hold key leadership roles, including as general salesimg manager at KKLA-FM, market manager for Los Angeles, and regional vice president overseeing major markets such as Seattle, Sacramento, San Francisco, Oxnard, San Diego, and most recently, Honolulu. Salem Media Group CEO David Santrella comments, “Terry’s vision, integrity, and deep commitment to Salem’s mission have left a lasting mark on everyone who has had the privilege to work with him. His contributions extend beyond radio programming into building meaningful community experiences and nurturing strong leadership in our teams.” Fahy reflects, “I am grateful for the opportunities and support Salem’s leadership has afforded me to make a spiritual impact in Southern California and other West Coast markets. I also treasure the talented and hard-working broadcast and media professionals I have had the privilege to work alongside. I am proud of what we accomplished, not only on air but also with our community events. Many people hope to look back on their careers with a sense of purpose and accomplishment. By God’s grace that has been my experience and privilege at Salem.”

Industry News

“The Dana Show” Joins KTTH, Seattle

The Radio America nationally syndicated program “The Dana Show” – hosted by Dana Loesch – is joining the daily lineup at Bonneville’s news/talk KTTH, Seattle in the 9:00 am to 12:00 noon daypartimg starting Monday (4/21). KTTH program director Jason Antebi says, “We’re thrilled to welcome Dana Loesch to KTTH’s weekday lineup. Dana’s bold, no-nonsense style and sharp political insights have built a loyal national following, and we’re confident her wit and fearless commentary will strike a chord with our Seattle audience. She’s a powerhouse voice in conservative media, and we’re proud to have her on board.” Loesch states, “I love my listeners in the Emerald City, and I’m thrilled to now be part of the great lineup at KTTH. Thanks to Jason and his team at Bonneville Seattle for making this opportunity possible.”

Industry News

Manda Factor Named KIRO-FM, Seattle Morning Co-Host

Bonneville announces that award-winning journalist Manda Factor is joining news/talk KIRO-FM, Seattle as co-host of “Seattle’s Morning News” alongside Charlie Harger, who assumed the role of host in January. Bonneville Seattle director of news and talk programming Bryan Buckalew says, “We’re thrilledimg to have Manda Factor join ‘Seattle’s Morning News.’ Her reputation in the Pacific Northwest and genuine enthusiasm for connecting with our community make her a fantastic addition. With Manda and Charlie Harger at the helm, we’re excited to bring our listeners a morning show that’s both informative and engaging.” About her new position, Factor says, “I am beyond excited to join Charlie and the KIRO Newsradio team. Charlie has been an integral part of the Seattle community, and I look forward to collaborating with him to bring important news and meaningful conversations to our listeners every morning. There is so much happening in the world, and I am passionate about delving into those stories to share with our community.”

Industry News

“Seattle Sports” Debuts “The Cal Raleigh Show”

Bonneville’s sports talk KIRO-AM “Seattle Sports” announces “The Cal Raleigh Show,” starring the Seattleimg Mariners catcher that will air Thursdays at 5:00 pm throughout the 2025 season.  On the program, Raleigh sits down with Mariners insider Shannon Drayer for “engaging and in-depth conversations on “Wyman & Bob.” “Seattle Sports” program director Kyle Brown says, “We’re thrilled to provide our fans with more access to Mariners players and the stories behind the scenes. Cal’s insights into his leadership, his role on the team, and the Mariners’ season will offer fans an even closer connection to the team in 2025.”

Industry News

Kate Stone Exits Bonneville’s KIRO-FM, Seattle

In a post on X, reporter and anchor Kate Stone announces that she is no longer with Bonneville’s news/talk KIRO-FM, Seattle. She states, “As many of you have probably ascertained, I am no longer at KIRO radio. Iim loved my time there, but circumstances change and it was time to move on. I’m deciding next steps, and took some time away to collect myself and reassess my priorities. I still love telling stories, and want to continue to do so. What form that takes is still to be decided. It may end up that I start giving a more pointed (read: opinionated) take on some news and issues than I was able to before. But I also cherish impartial reporting and fairness. It’s the backbone of what I’ve always done and strive to do. That’s why I have remained silent thus far. But I continue to read and listen to both sides of the issues critical to Washington. I remain committed and engaged, even if I don’t have the same platform to speak through.”