Tag: TALKERS News Notes

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Research Director, Inc promotes Nicole Somerville to chief operating officer. Somerville joined the company in July of 1998 and has held several prominent positions over the past 25-plus years. In 2022, she began her role as data and production manager where she oversaw the process of transforming raw data into specific, actionable client deliverables.

iHeartPodcasts, Dan Patrick, and Never Ever Productions announce the addition of “Playing Dirty: Sports Scandals” to The Dan Patrick Podcast Network. The new podcast features stories from the dark side of sports – from passport doping and armed assault to car chases and sex scandals. The series is narrated by veteran ESPN personality Jay Harris and written by Emmy Award-winning sports broadcaster Jenn Brown and federal prosecutor Francey Hakes.

Audacy launches “Superfly,” a new, weekly spinoff of the comedy podcast, “Fly on the Wall,” created and hosted by Dana Carvey and David Spade. On “Superfly,” Carvey and Spade will riff on current events, pop culture, social clips, and audience submissions with their trademark hilarity, absurdity, and impressions, with guests appearing from time to time.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Audacy files applications for entry of an order authorizing the retention and employment of four firms with the bankruptcy court. Those include Porter Hedges LLP as co-counsel for the debtors, FTI Consulting Inc as financial advisor to the debtors, PJT Partners LP as investment banker to the debtors, and Latham & Watkins LLP as bankruptcy co-counsel for the debtors and debtors in possession.

Benztown, P1 Media Group, and Global Radio Ideas Facebook Group are hosting a free webinar for radio professionals around the globe, titled, “How Radio Talent Can Survive and Thrive in 2024.” It features special guest Paul Anderson, CEO of Workhouse Media. The 40-minute webinar will be hosted by Benztown CEO Andreas Sannemann and P1 Media Group partner Ken Benson. Get more info and register here.

AUN Television Network president and CEO Rick Trader announces the launch of a 12-part special designed to educate Americans about the Constitution and its amendments. Titled, “Our Country, Our Freedoms, Our Constitution: Lessons for Freedom,” the programs debut on February 4 across the network and its 11 broadcast television stations.

New England Public Media unveils a new, weekly radio show and podcast called, “The Rundown with Carrie Saldo,” that premieres Friday (2/2) 9:00 am to 10:00 am following NPR’s “Morning Edition” on WFCR-FM, Amherst, Massachusetts “88.5 NEPM.” The station says, “Each week, listeners will hear a lively conversation with reporters from newsrooms around western Massachusetts, giving their take on the news and events that shaped the week, and providing analysis, context, insights, and varying perspectives.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Cable news network NewsNation launches a new Sunday public affairs program titled, “The Hill Sunday with Chris Stirewalt.” The show will debut on March 3 at 10:00 am ET. NewsNation president of news Michael Corn states, “We are delighted that Chris will be joining the new weekend lineup. He is a legendary figure in Washington and one of the most respected, intelligent, and well-sourced journalists covering U.S. politics.”

Digital sports platform OutKick announces that it finished 2023 with the most growth year over year amongst its competitive set in total multiplatform unique visitors, delivering a monthly average of 7.2 million total multiplatform unique visitors, up 65% versus 2022, according to Comscore. OutKick founder Clay Travis says,“2023 was a tremendous year for OutKick. We’ve added new shows, top-tier talent, and most importantly continued to generate engaging content with a roster that’s unfiltered and fearless.”

PodcastOne renews the exclusive sales and distribution rights for the “Our Fake History” podcast, created and hosted by Canadian high school history teacher Sebastian Major. PodcastOne chief content officer Eli Dvorkin says, “We’re thrilled to continue our long-term relationship with Sebastian and ‘Our Fake History.’ This podcast is a leader in debunking or verifying historical myths and legends while instilling the sort of knowledge that makes any listener just that much smarter.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Edison Research unveils the Top 25 Podcasts in the UK for Q3 2023. This list ranks the 25 biggest podcasts based on total weekly audience reach as measured by Edison Podcast Metrics UK. Interestingly, the American podcast “The Joe Rogan Experience,” ranks #1 in this chart. Other American podcasts making the top 25 include “Stuff You Should Know” from iHeartPodcasts and “Crime Junkie” from audiochuck.

Programming executive Andy Denemark is stepping away from day-to-day operations at United Stations Radio Networks. Gemini XIII Media acquired the company in July of 2023 and Denemark remained on to assist with transitioning several facets of the business. He’ll continue to advise United Stations on various topics and to develop special projects including content for emerging audio platforms.

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc introduces four new members to its board of directors: Becky Brenner, consulting partner at Albright & O’Malley & Brenner Consulting; Dawn Krause, vice president of finance for Midwest Communications, Inc; Maria Laing-Smith, SVP of Mr. Master; and Leslie Scott, VP of digital audio content for Audacy.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The WOKV-FM, Jacksonville-based Mark Kaye Show did a bit on Friday (1/5) in which U.S. Representative Aaron Bean from Florida’s Fourth Congressional District appeared to “take over” the show to “discuss the grim truth about Joe Biden’s open border crisis in Texas.” Bean traveled to the border recently as part of a congressional delegation led by Speaker of the House Mike Johnson. The bit continued as “eventually, Mark Kaye was able to regain control of the show, but only by agreeing to a sit-down interview hosted by Congressman Bean. Kaye said ‘It was really weird being a guest on my own show.’”

WABC, New York presented a special program on Saturday (1/6) at 4:00 pm titled, “The Left vs The Right with Anthony Weiner and John Catsimatidis.” As the show name implies, Weiner and Catsimatidis debated current events including the U.S. migrant crisis and more.

Key Networks enters into an agreement with Digitent Podcasts to serve as ad sales representative for the health and wellness influencer and podcast network. Key Networks president of sales Jason Wilberding says, “The timing for our Digitent partnership couldn’t be better, as health and wellness are top of mind in the new year for consumers and for so many of our advertisers. The highly influential Digitent hosts are eager to voice for endemic and lifestyle brands and the Key Networks team is excited for the myriad of possibilities in 2024 and beyond!”

NuVoodoo Media Services announces that it is appointing media sales pro Matt Parvis to the newly created position vice president of sales. Parvis will report to NuVoodoo founder and president Carolyn Gilbert and will be based in Los Angeles. Parvis joins NuVoodoo after 25 years as vice president of sales for AllAccess.com.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The Newsweek-syndicated talk radio program “The Josh Hammer Show” adds new affiliate station KFTK-FM, St. Louis as the station airs the show on Saturdays from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Hammer says, “I am absolutely thrilled to join the weekend lineup of ‘97.1 FM Talk’ in St. Louis. I grew up hearing about how my great-grandparents on my mother’s side immigrated to St. Louis from Eastern Europe, so this is personal for me. I can’t wait to take my own brand of hard-hitting, pull-no-punches conservatism to 97.1 FM Talk’s powerful airwaves.”

iHeartPodcasts announces the launch of “Native Land Pod” hosted by Angela Rye, Tiffany D. Cross and Andrew Gillum. The iHeartPodcasts president Will Pearson says, “This new, groundbreaking podcast brings together an electrifying ensemble of hosts, hailing from a wide range of media backgrounds. As we head into an election year, we’re excited to see how ‘Native Land Pod’ elevates the political discourse and empowers listeners with new knowledge and diverse perspectives.”

Audacy enters into a sales and distribution agreement with the Women’s Meditation Network. Founded by Katie Krimitsos, the Women’s Meditation Network offers 17 different guided meditation podcasts created to be easily accessible, approachable, and deeply fulfilling for people of all ages and experience levels, as well as children.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

News/talk WGDJ, Albany and owner Paul Vandenburgh are the subjects of an interesting piece by Chris Churchill in the Times-Union. Vandenburgh has been the owner of the standalone station (it also broadcasts on W254DA at 98.7 FM) for 17 years. In addition to owning and running the ship, he also hosts the local morning program. His success – Vandenburgh says the station is in the black – bucks the trend of consolidation. Read the full story here.

Cumulus Media announces that “The Ed Mylett Show” joins the Cumulus Podcast Network. The program showcases interviews with the greatest peak performers across all industries – including business, health, collegiate and professional sports, politics, entrepreneurship, science and entertainment – sharing their journeys, knowledge and thought leadership to help inspire listeners to become their best selves.

ABC News Radio adds Hubbard Broadcasting’s WTOP-FM, Washington, DC as its newest affiliate station. ABC News Radio says, “This new partnership will support WTOP-FM by providing the station access to live two-ways with ABC News correspondents, including chief Washington correspondent Jonathan Karl, White House correspondent Karen Travers, national correspondent Steven Portnoy and many others.

iHeartMedia Connecticut adds FOX Sports Radio to the lineups at WUCS-FM, Hartford “97-9 FM” and WAVZ-AM, New Haven. Stations programmer Ben Darnell comments, “We’re thrilled to now have FOX Sports Radio’s powerful lineup on 97-9 and on 1300AM. This addition, along with ‘The Rob Dibble Show,’ play-by-play and the UConn Sports Network, will continue our position as the broadcast sports leader in Connecticut.”

FOX News Media promotes Scott Wilder to EVP of production and operations. In this capacity, Wilder will oversee all technical, field and production operations of FOX News Media’s special events and breaking news coverage, including the 2024 presidential election.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

PodcastOne acquires the exclusive distribution and sales rights to the award-winning podcast, “Was I In A Cult?” from hosts Liz Iacuzzi and Tyler Measom.  PodcastOne co-founder and president Kit Gray says, “The cultural impact that this podcast had and the watercooler talk left a lasting impression in the world of podcasting, and we cannot wait to bring new episodes to listeners and to advertisers in 2024.”

Cumulus Media announces that the podcasts from real estate investment focused BiggerPockets join the Cumulus Podcast Network. BiggerPockets says it helps those interested in finding financial freedom through real estate investing by providing useful tools, education, and support with their network of six podcasts that garner more than four million downloads each month.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Florence, Alabama news/talk/sports WBCF-AM notifies the FCC that it will cease broadcast operations effective December 31, 2023 and will go silent. The station, owned by Benji Carle, simulcasts on translator W246BS at 97.1 FM, also licensed to Florence.

Radio programmer Michael Czarnecki leaves his position with Binnie Media as vice president of programming for that company’s Maine radio stations and “The Pulse of New Hampshire” network of talk stations to join Saga Communications as PD for WMLL, Manchester, New Hampshire “96.5 Live Free Country.”

The OutKick digital sports media platform says it saw strong growth month over month in November 2023 with over 6.4 million total multiplatform unique visitors (up 6% versus the prior month), 24 million total multiplatform views, (up 2% versus the prior month), and 23 million total multiplatform minutes (up 1% flat versus the prior month), according to data from Comscore. On Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, OutKick saw over 1.3 million total social actions in November 2023, up 48% versus the prior month and up 93% versus November 2022.

Josh Krulewitz is named ESPN SVP, communications and assumes leadership of ESPN’s communications department effective December 31. Krulewitz takes over for Chris LaPlaca who is retiring at the end of the year after more than 43 years at ESPN.

VSiN adds two new affiliate stations to its roster as WKCT-AM and WDNS-AM in Bowling Green, Kentucky and WTKG-AM, Grand Rapids, Michigan are now airing content from the network.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Audacy Buffalo raises $117,000 for the SPCA Serving Erie County during its SPCA Radiothon, held on December 13 and hosted by news/talk WBEN-AM and country WLKK-FM. Audacy Buffalo SVP and market manager Tim Wenger says, “We’re thrilled to have been able to spearhead the radiothon effort for the SPCA in 2023 and excited we exceeded the goal and expectations for the event. The money raised is a testament to our listeners’ commitment to community and will go a long way toward helping the SPCA meet a growing need.”

ARC Software, Inc announces that RADIO.CLOUD enters into an agreement establishing ARC as its primary affiliate research and maintenance platform. RADIO.CLOUD account director Andrew Scaglione says, “Switching to ARC is a no brainer. Speaking from experience using both ARC and other systems in the past, it’s hands down the best CRM for the radio industry with reliable contact information and a seamless digital contract process. It’s going to play a key role in our future growth across the North American radio landscape.”

SiriusXM announces it is presenting 46 games this college football postseason. SiriusXM will carry live play-by-play of every Division I FBS bowl game – including the College Football Playoff Semifinals and National Championship – as well as the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) National Championship game and other postseason All-Star games. SiriusXM will carry Westwood One’s broadcast of the FCS Football Championship on January 7.  

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The Weather Channel Radio Network and Skyview Networks announce the renewal and expansion of their audio network partnership. Starting January 1, 2024, The Weather Channel Radio Network will expand its existing sales partnership Skyview Networks to include short-form terrestrial radio inventory and podcasting inventory.

SiriusXM signs multiple active NFL players to host a new, entirely player-helmed show on its SiriusXM NFL Radio channel. Miami Dolphins running back Alec Ingold, Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Allen Robinson and veteran tight end Colin Thompson serve as rotating hosts of “The Players’ Point,” which airs Tuesdays from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm ET. The program teams two of the players up each week to host their own show, conduct interviews and drive the weekly conversation from an active player’s perspective. Robinson, Ingold and Thompson are former participants in the NFL’s Broadcasting and Media Workshop, a program created by the league and run with the help of several veteran media executives and broadcasters, including those from SiriusXM, to help players develop careers in media.

KUT and KUTX Public Media deputy general manager Sylvia Ponce-Carson announces she’ll retire on December 31 after 22 years of service to the station and more than three decades in public media. The organization says, “When she arrived in January 2002, KUT was a hybrid news and music station, carrying a mix of NPR, BBC and other programs, as well as locally hosted music. She strengthened the station’s revenue model – both underwriting and membership, helping the station grow at a rate beyond similar-sized operations.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Actress Shannen Doherty teams up with iHeartPodcasts for her podcast, “Let’s Be Clear.” A press release says, “Shannen Doherty will open up like never before in her new live memoir podcast. ‘Let’s Be Clear’ promises to be a raw and candid exploration of Shannen’s personal journey covering everything from her TV and film credits to her stage four cancer battle, friendships, divorces and more. The podcast will also provide a platform for Shannen to share her life experience, the strength that carried her through difficult times, and her hopes and dreams for the future.”

FOX News Audio debuts a new weekly podcast hosted by FOX News correspondent Benjamin Hall called, “Searching for Heroes with Benjamin Hall.” The podcast highlights inspiring stories of community and compassion, while providing a voice to America’s unsung heroes. The first episode features a look back at the catastrophic injuries Hall sustained while covering the war in Ukraine and the extraordinary efforts that aided his road to recovery. While news gathering in Ukraine in March of 2022, Hall’s car was hit by a projectile missile, leaving him with one working limb and tragically taking the lives of his colleagues, FOX News photojournalist Pierre Zakrzewski and Ukrainian journalist Oleksandra Kuvshynova. Since the attack, Hall has been inspired by the incredible efforts of everyday heroes similar to those who went above and beyond to help him throughout his arduous journey of recovery.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

FOX News Channel correspondent Benjamin Hall traveled to Kyiv, Ukraine this past weekend for the first time since the attack that left him catastrophically injured in March of 2022. The trip, organized by Fox Corporation executive chairman and CEO Lachlan Murdoch, included a sit-down interview with Volodymyr Zelenskyy that will air on “Special Report with Bret Baier” November 21. Amid enduring more than 30 surgeries over the last 20 months, Hall chronicled his journey in Saved: A War Reporter’s Mission to Make it Home which was published in March 2023 and became a New York Times bestseller.

Cox Media Group Atlanta’s radio stations partnered with the Atlanta Community Food Bank to collect 14,478 pounds of food between November 11-18. The effort by news/talk WSB-AM/WSBB-FM and its three music-formatted sister stations, generated 16,965 meals for food-insecure individuals in Georgia. CMG Atlanta VP and market manager Jaleigh Long says, “This year was a record-breaking year for pounds of food collected that will make a positive impact on our community. We’re thankful for the partnership with Atlanta Community Food Bank and grateful to be able to help struggling families during this time of ‘thanks’ and ‘giving.’”

Benztown president Dave “Chachi” Denes has dropped new episodes of his “Chachi Loves Everybody” podcast and one is an interview with newly elevated president of The Weiss Agency, Heather Cohen.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Legendary comic and talk show host Jimmie Walker is filling in at Audacy’s news/talk KXNT-AM, Las Vegas this week and next, hosting the 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm show. Walker is available for fill-in work and can be reached at: dynomitecomic1@hotmail.com.

PodcastOne acquires the exclusive sales and distribution rights to “The Consult: The Real FBI Profilers” from retired FBI agent and profiler Julia Cowley. The podcast is produced by Alice LaCour and Brett Talle. PodcastOne co-founder and president Kit Gray says, “Being introduced to Julia and her show ‘The Consult’ by Alice and Brett was a win for us at PodcastOne. This program fits perfectly into our existing roster of top-notch true crime genre shows and we are thrilled to offer ‘The Consult’ to our listeners and to our advertisers who are looking to add to their playlists.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

PodcastOne is planning a studio launch party on Monday in Beverly Hills with special guests including its longtime star podcaster Adam Carolla.

Benztown is releasing the holiday imaging and programming library “Christmas in a Box” that comes free to stations with Benztown library subscriptions. It includes more than 5,000 tracks of audio Christmas cheer.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

UK radio and outdoor firm Global inks an exclusive platform distribution and ad sales deal with iHeartMedia in which Global and iHeartMedia will license, distribute and represent each other’s podcast portfolios.

The Philadelphia Eagles and Audacy announce a multi-year extension to their 30-year partnership through the 2028 NFL season. As part of the new agreement, “SportsRadio 94WIP” will continue to serve as the team’s official flagship radio partner. The broadcast team is led by Eagles Hall of Famers Merrill Reese and Mike Quick in the radio booth and longtime 94WIP personality Howard Eskin on the sideline.

iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman & president COO/CFO Rich Bressler will participate in a question and answer session during the Wells Fargo TMT Summit on November 29 at 3:45 pm ET. A live webcast of the session will be available to the general public at the start of the session through a link on the Investors homepage of iHeartMedia’s website.

PodcastOne acquires the exclusive sales and distribution rights, as well as certain ownership and IP/derivative rights, to true crime podcast, “Lost In Panama.” PodcastOne president and co-founder Kit Gray comments, “We continue our stated strategy of rolling up the fragmented podcast industry to deliver the best podcast library with the lowest cost per acquisition. We are excited and look forward to more announcements in the near future.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) announces a new partnership with the International Coaching Federation Foundation (ICF) that will provide AWM members with the unique opportunity to access professional coaching at an exclusive discounted rate. Participants in the AWM Coaching program can anticipate a series of six to 10 coaching sessions with their individual ICF Coach, ensuring a productive and tailored coaching experience. The schedule and goals for these coaching sessions will be established between the coach and participant. Learn more about the program here.

Gemini XIII’s United Stations Radio Networks announces a new partnership with Yea Networks to represent the advertising sales for “The Kidd Kraddick Morning Show.” Gemini XIII CEO Spencer Brown states, “The Kidd Kraddick Morning Show is one of the most popular and successful morning shows in the country, and we are confident that sponsorships, cross-platform opportunities and activations for brands will once again be a part of the media mix for clients looking to activate with female demos in a meaningful way.”

FOX News Audio expands its partnership with Audacy to include FOX Weather, FOX News Media’s free, ad-supported streaming television (“FAST”) weather service. This deal expands FOX News Audio’s existing relationship with Audacy, which also distributes FOX News Podcasts and the FOX News Talk audio streams.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

PodcastOne announces deals to extend top performing and fan favorite podcasts “LadyGang,” “Gals on the Go” and “Melissa Gorga On Display.” PodcastOne president and co-founder Kit Gray comments, “PodcastOne prides itself on being talent first and ‘LadyGang,’ ‘Gals on the Go’ and ‘Melissa Gorga On Display’ are some of the most talented hosts in the medium. We’re incredibly fortunate to build on a legacy of groundbreaking audio driven entertainment for women. Being able to grow these podcasts in partnership with their hosts has truly been a pleasure over the last several years, and we look forward to what the future has in store.”

VSiN, The Sports Betting Network, adds new affiliate stations in Medford, Oregon and Abilene, Texas. VSiN general manager Len Mead says, “Following new radio affiliates in New Hampshire and North Carolina late this summer, the new football season brings continued expansion of VSiN’s leading sports betting radio network. We’re excited to welcome new fans in Medford and Abilene as we continue to expand our distribution footprint to inform and entertain more listeners than ever before.”

iHeartPodcasts and Novel announce the launch of brand-new weekly podcast, “28 Dates Later with Grace Campbell.” Comedian and writer Campbell goes on 28 dates across two months, only dating people who are the total opposite of her usual type. Listeners not only hear audio from the actual dates, but are also be given a ringside seat to the post-date debrief between Grace and her friends Roz and Dan.

NASCAR crowns it’s Premier Series Champion this Sunday (11/5) at Phoenix Raceway capping its historic 75th Anniversary season. When Motor Racing Network completes its live broadcast from Phoenix, it will signal the end of approximately 350 hours of NASCAR related content produced by the network in 2023.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

iHeartMedia Inc will hold an earnings call to discuss its financial results from the third quarter of 2023 and its business outlook on Thursday, November 9 at 8:30 am ET. The company will release its Q3 2023 financial report prior to the earnings call.

Beasley Broadcast Group Inc will report its 2023 third quarter financial results before the market opens on Wednesday, November 1. The company will host a conference call and webcast at 11:00 am ET that morning to review the results.

Red Apple Media’s 77WABC is saluting law enforcement today (10/25) with “Respect the Blue, Trust The Blue, Back the Blue, “an all-day tribute honoring the men and women in law enforcement who risk their lives every day to keep New York City and America safe.” The day’s events include a drive to raise money for the 77WABC Foundation’s Back the Blue Fallen Officer Family Fund.

iHeartMedia Memphis — including news/talk WREC-AM — announces the 8th annual “Cognac, Cars & Cigars” on Saturday, November 4. A portion of the ticket proceeds will benefit local charity Merge Memphis, a non-profit with a mission to serve homeless women.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Townsquare Media announces it will release third quarter 2023 financial results before the market opens on Thursday, November 9. The company will host a conference call to discuss certain third quarter 2023 financial results at 8:00 am ET that morning.

The NHL’s Minnesota Wild and iHeartMedia Minneapolis announces a five-year partnership extension through the 2027-28 season to broadcast all preseason, regular season and Stanley Cup Playoff games on KFXN-FM “KFAN 100.3 FM.” KFAN 100.3 is currently in its 13th season as the official radio flagship home of the Minnesota Wild.

Salem Media Group announces that WWFE-AM “La Nueva Poderosa 670 AM” and The Weather Channel en Español have entered into a strategic partnership that will enhance weather coverage and climate reporting in Spanish, specifically curated for South Florida.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Salem Radio Network talk host Mike Gallagher began yesterday’s program launching an emergency campaign raising funds for Israeli victims through the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews. Gallagher’s campaign is also being highlighted on other Salem Media Group platforms including SRN News, TOWNHALL.com, and several local morning shows including Mark Davis’ program on KSKY, Dallas and Joey Hudson’s show on WGTK-FM in Greenville, South Carolina as well as TOWNHALL News.

According to an article in the New York Post (10/7) by reporter Brooke Kato, scientists have unsheathed an electrifying new treatment for erectile dysfunction that’s possibly better than popping a little blue pill — AM radio waves!  New research published in the International Journal of Impotence Research suggested that self-administered, low-intensity radio frequency zaps to the penis could be effective for ED treatment due to anatomical and physiological changes in the penile tissue. When used at lower frequencies, the radio waves create heat, due to the interaction between molecules and ions, triggering “structural changes” and the creation of collagen and elastic fibers, according to study author Dr. Ilan Gruenwald. Read the complete article here.

International imaging firm Benztown and research company P1 Media Group are hosting a free webinar for radio professionals titled, “Checking in on the World’s First AI Presenter – Is This Radio’s Future?” The 40-minute webinar will be hosted by Andreas Sannemann, CEO, Benztown, and Ken Benson, partner, P1 Media Group, and will feature AI pioneer Dylan Salisbury, content director, “Live 95.5,” in Portland, OR, and creator of the first AI radio personality in the world, “AI Ashley.”

The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) announces that radio legend Delilah will be honored with the inaugural Gracies Icon Award at the 2023 Gracies Leadership Awards. The Premiere Networks nationally syndicated personality “will be celebrated for her outstanding contributions to the world of radio and her unwavering commitment to uplifting and empowering listeners.” AWM will honor her at the Gracies Leadership Awards on November 13 at Tribeca 360° in New York City, alongside previously announced honorees.

The Broadcasters Foundation of America elects Adrienne Roark, president of content development and integration for CBS News, Stations, and CBS Media Ventures to its Board of Directors.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

iHeartMedia and Will Ferrell’s Big Money Players Podcast Network announce the “Big Money Players Circle” in which Ferrell has hand selected the freshest and funniest social sensations to join the network and be showcased across iHeartMedia’s multi-platform ecosystem. The Big Money Players Circle will be announced during the first-ever “The Big Money Players Comedy Hour Presented by Straight Talk Wireless,” which will broadcast across iHeartMedia radio stations nationwide tonight (10/5) at 7:00 pm local time.

Stingray Radio’s “Sports 1440 Edmonton” adds several FOX Sports Radio programs to its weekday and weekend lineup. The station is now airing “Two Pros and a Cup of Joe with LaVar Arrington, Brady Quinn & Jonas Knox,” “The Jason Smith Show with Mike Harmon,” and “The Ben Maller Show.” It is also featuring FOX Sports Radio around the clock on weekends.

SiriusXM and New England College announce that GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy will take part in a town hall event with Patriot channel host David Webb. The program is being recorded at the school near Concord, New Hampshire tomorrow (10/6) and will premiere on Monday (10/9) 9:00 am ET with replays throughout the week.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Benztown and Envisionwise are hosting a free webinar for radio professionals titled, “Keeping it Real in the Digital Age,” with host Mike McVay, president of McVay Media, and guests Jackie Parks, founder/CEO of Envisionwise; Peter Smyth, former chairman and CEO of Greater Media, Inc; and Sheri Lynch, co-host of “The Bob & Sheri Show.” The 45-minute webinar on Friday (10/6) at 1:00 pm ET will provide specific tools and strategies for increasing stations’ digital revenue. You can register here.

Audacy announces an expansion of its relationship with Puck and the launch of “About a Boy: The Story of Vladimir Putin” – a five-part documentary podcast series exploring the forces that shaped Russian President Vladimir Putin’s childhood (and life) and why it’s critical to understanding what he might do next in the war against Ukraine. The series is written and narrated by Julia Ioffe, Puck founding partner and Washington correspondent, and one of the leading journalists covering Russia and Putin.

Salem Media Group says “Grace and Truth with Owen Strachan” is joining the Salem Podcast Network. Owen Strachan is provost and research professor of Theology at Grace Bible Theological Seminary and is the author of 20 books, including his latest, The War on Men: Why Society Hates Them and Why We Need Them (Salem Books, 2023). Salem SVP of spoken word Phil Boyce comments, “Salem Podcast Network continues to add multi-talented podcasters who share our worldview. Owen is an amazing voice for what is true and right in America, and adding him to our platform is a home run. I can’t wait to become a regular listener when he gets started.”

iHeartPodcasts announces the return of the “Work in Progress” podcast for its third season. The program features actor, producer, and activist Sophia Bush and in the first two episodes she interviews former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki along with an interview with actor Matthew McConaughey.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Salem Media Group announces that the podcast show “Living to 100 Club,” hosted by Dr. Joseph Casciani, joins its SeniorResource.com. The program features experts on everything from nutrition and healthy lifestyle habits to modern medicine and medical advancements. Dr. Casciani says, “Psychologically, healthy aging is all about mindset, attitude, and outlook. I want my listeners to keep moving forward, no matter what gets in the way.”

Audiohook names David “DK” Krulewich its new chief revenue officer (CRO). Krulewich has experience in the audio space including in his more recent position as executive vice president of Programmatic, Podcasting, Data and Product at iHeartMedia’s Katz Digital.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that the NBA’s Timberwolves will not renew their deal with Audacy’s WCCO-AM for the team’s game broadcasts beginning with this 23-24 season. Team spokeswoman Sara Perez states, “We appreciated our partnership with WCCO and the radio broadcast opportunities we were able to accomplish with them. However, we are looking forward to announcing a new radio broadcast partnership in the weeks to come.”

FOX News Channel chief political anchor Bret Baier will present an exclusive interview with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on his “Special Report” program on September 20 at 6:00 pm ET. This is bin Salman’s first interview with a major American news network since 2019. FNC says, “The pre-taped, no-holds-barred interview will cover a range of topics about the future of the kingdom and relations with the United States. Baier will anchor “Special Report” from Saudi Arabia on September 19 and 20 and present a behind-the-scenes look at the kingdom, conducting adjacent interviews with other Saudi officials as well.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Compass Media Networks kicked off year 15 of college football coverage this month that’s part of its 16-game CFB schedule. Compass SVP and general manager for sports Michelle Salvatore states, “There is nothing quite like the fan frenzy and pageantry of the college game day experience. Each week Compass Media Networks brings our national audience the absolute best matchups from the Power 5. We cannot wait to broadcast #5 LSU at Mississippi State this weekend!”

Art Vuolo of Vuolo Video shot video of the flip of WFDF, Detroit to news/talk on September 5. The video includes a history of the 910 AM frequency in the market and its most recent programming under owner Kevin Adell’s Adell Media. See the video here.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

ABC Audio enters into a multiyear podcast advertising deal with Libsyn’s AdvertiseCast. ABC Audio vice president Liz Alesse says, “ABC Audio’s podcast business is flourishing, and we’re poised to make several exciting content announcements this fall. We’re thrilled to have AdvertiseCast in our corner as we expand our podcasting footprint even further and take this business to new heights.”

Westwood One is again providing exclusive play-by-play coverage of the National Football League’s entire primetime regular season as well as every postseason game, marking the 37th consecutive season that Westwood One is the exclusive network radio partner of the NFL. This will be the 51st time that the network will broadcast the Super Bowl to a national audience.

OutKick debuted “OutKick the Morning with Charly Arnolt” this morning (9/7) at 8:00 am ET. The daily, half-hour show will be live each morning and comes ahead of OutKick’s plan to roll out a two-hour morning show with Arnolt and a co-host later this year.

Audacy’s BetQL Network ushers in the football season with a fall lineup that includes 99 hours of original content each week. BetQL Network brand manager Andrew Williams says, “As anticipation for the upcoming football action reaches its zenith, we’re proud to present an array of engaging shows, expert analysis, and thrilling insights that are set to redefine sports betting entertainment. With this fall football lineup, BetQL Network continues to set the gold standard in sports entertainment, offering a comprehensive experience that spans the spectrum from analysis to excitement, predictions and pulse-pounding action.”

Research Director, Inc brings Chuck Sullivan aboard to lead business development. Sullivan most recently served with Milwaukee Radio Alliance and Audacy in Denver. Research Director CEO Marc Greenspan comments, “When I was first introduced to Chuck, I saw right away that he would be a great fit for our company and especially, our clients. I am so excited to welcome Chuck to the RDI family and look forward to working with him.”

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

ABC Audio’s Labor Day weekend special programs include, “What’s Next? Life & Tech,” hosted by ABC News technology reporter Mike Dobuski who explores the role of artificial intelligence and the future of technology and the internet. The program also includes ABC News Radio correspondent Jim Ryan reporting on space travel developments and speaking with astrophysicist Hakeem Oluseyi and Eric Ingram, the founder and CEO of SCOUT, a U.S.-based company developing orbital products and services.

American Forces Network is moving the talk content it currently airs on radio as AFN PowerTalk to its digital platform AFN Go.

Westwood One is broadcasting the 2023 Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic live from Canton, Ohio, on Sunday (9/3) featuring the Virginia Union University Panthers vs the Morehouse College Maroon Tigers. The team of Troy Clardy, Anthony Herron, and AJ Ross will handle the game broadcast and Scott Graham will host the pregame and halftime coverage live from Westwood One’s studios.

Consulting and research firm Paragon promotes Michelle Conrad to marketing director in which she’ll oversee its marketing and communication efforts. The company also adds Jasper Logan as community engagement consultant.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

FOX News Media says that according to data from Nielsen Media Research, its “Democracy 24: FOX News Republican Primary Debate” was the most-watched telecast in all of linear television, digital and streaming on Wednesday (8/23), averaging 12.8 million viewers and 2.8 million viewers in the 25-54 demo. That, FOX says, tops more than 70% of all presidential primary debates in the last two cycles (2016 and 2020).

SiriusXM announces it opens the 2023 college football season offering 87 live games during the week (8/26-9/4). SiriusXM says this slate includes games from every team from the Associated Press Top 25 poll, including the top-ranked Georgia Bulldogs vs UT Martin; #13 Notre Dame vs Navy in Dublin, Ireland; and #5 LSU vs #8 Florida State.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

CBS News is presenting the Labor Day special “Workers Across America,” hosted by Gil Gross. The three-hour show investigates the future of organized labor, the re-thinking of the importance of a college degree, toxic co-workers, how AI will radically change the workplace and more.

Bonneville’s news/talk KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” and sports talk KMVP-FM “Arizona Sports” hosted the 15th annual Phoenix Children’s Give-A-Thon August 14-18 and raised $2,168,483 to support care at Phoenix Children’s. Bonneville Phoenix SVP and market manager Ryan Hatch states, “It is incredible to see $2.16 million raised through powerful storytelling that inspires our generous community to step up for the kids in Arizona. We are so grateful for our caring audiences, sponsors, team partners, and the hundreds of volunteers for their wonderful support of Give-A-Thon.”

iHeartMedia and the NFL announce an exclusive multi-year deal to bring “The Fantasy Footballers Dynasty Show” podcast to the NFL Podcast Network. A spin-off of the “Fantasy Footballers Show” started in 2014 by hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore and Mike Wright, the recently launched podcast dives into the Dynasty world of fantasy football including NFL rookie scouting, NFL draft coverage, Dynasty draft advice, player breakdowns and more.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman and COO CFO Rich Bressler will participate in a question and answer session during the Goldman Sachs Communacopia + Technology Conference on September 7 at 3:25 pm ET. A live webcast of the session will be available to the general public at the start of the session through a link on the Investors homepage of iHeartMedia’s website. A replay of the webcast will be available in the Events & Presentation section of iHeartMedia’s Investors homepage.

Triton Digital announces that it is integrating data with YouTube views of podcast episodes into its Triton Podcast Metrics. With this data, publishers can now view how their content is consumed on YouTube in conjunction with their overall podcast downloads.

The Kansas Association of Broadcasters announces the Hall of Fame inductees and Distinguished Service Award honoree for 2023. KSU professor and longtime broadcaster (WGN, Chicago; WGST, Atlanta; Coast to Coast AM) Ian Punnett is the Distinguished Service Award honoree. Mike Manns, Dale Morrell, and Randy Picking are the Hall of Fame inductees. See more about them here.

Industry News

TALKERS News Notes

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Religious broadcaster Hope Media Group names Tate Luck director of audio streaming. Luck as been a programming consultant and talent coach with his Jacksonville-based Tate Luck Media since 2015. Hope Media Group chief of innovation Shawn Farrington says, “I’ve worked with Tate for the past four years. His ear for texture and strength as a talent coach has helped NGEN Radio grow as an all-digital brand. Tate is among the best imaging producers in our industry. I’m looking forward to working with Tate to innovate on the digital streaming formats to create even more (future) experiences of God’s transforming love.”

The Society of Broadcast Engineers – the association for broadcast and multimedia technology professionals – elects Ted D. Hand its president. Hand says, “I look forward to working with the officers, board and SBE membership to further the goals of the Society, including the SBE education and mentoring efforts, which are important to me. I also want to keep the SBE on the forefront of RF spectrum protection.”

FOX Sports Radio’s “The Doug Gottlieb Show” hit the road bringin fans live, on-location coverage from the network’s annual NFL Training Camp Tour in which he got an insider’s look at the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers, including interviews with players, coaches and franchise executives.