WOKV-FM | TALKERS magazine

Mark Kaye Show Giving Away Twitter Blue Checks

By TALKERS | April 24, 2023 by TALKERS

WOKV-FM, Jacksonville-based, syndicated talk host Mark Kaye is helping listeners get those coveted “blue check marks” for their Twitter accounts. The day after millions of legacy-verified accounts lost their checks, Kaye announced his contest to give away five Twitter Blue subscriptions to listeners who can explain why they are most deserving of the prize. Kaye says, “We are always looking for fun and unique ways to help our audience. Many of our listeners lost their blue check marks in the purge. Several others never had one to begin with. Either way, the twitter blue check mark has once again become a hot commodity and a major status symbol in the war to protect free speech. What better prize could we offer our listeners?” Kaye is giving away one subscription each day this week.

Ratings Takeaways

February 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

By TALKERS | March 28, 2023 by TALKERS

February 2023 PPM Data – Information for the February 2023 survey period has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford.

Nielsen Audio’s February 2023 sweep covered February 2 – March 1.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are January 2023 – February 2023 (6+).

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media Group’s KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 5.1 – 5.5, +.4, anchored in fifth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio-owned KTXX “The Horn” 2.1 – 1.9, -.2, flat at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas’ KUT 5.3 – 5.6, +.3, remains in fourth-place

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media Group adult hits KBPA, second month in succession, 9.9 – 9.6, -.3

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: hot AC KAMX (+1.4)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KLQB (-1.0)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 8.3 – 8.0, -.3, locked in second-place

News: Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” 1.8 – 2.4, +.6, #16 to #14

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 3.1 – 2.7, -.4, repeats at #13

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 8.3 – 7.4, -.9, second to third

Number One 6+: Urban One urban AC WFXC, second straight month, 8.5 – 10.5, +2.0

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: urban AC WFXC (+2.0)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: gospel WNNL (-1.1)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Urban One’s WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 7.2 – 8.0, +.8, carries on in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” 3.0 – 2.9, -.1, locked at #12

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” .7 – .5, -.2, #18 to #19

Audacy’s WXNT “CBS Sports 1430” flat at .4, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 4.3 – 4.8, +.5, tenth to eighth

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK, second month in a row, 10.4 – 9.2, -1.2 and Urban One adult contemporary WYXB, first month, 9.3 – 9.2, -.1

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: news/talk WIBC (+.8)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: country WLHK (-1.4)

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 9.6 – 9.8, +.2, #1

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Bucks) 7.5 – 7.0, -.5, fifth to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” steady at 1.1, #16 to #15

iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” 1.7 – 1.0, -.7, #15 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 4.5 – 3.9, -.6, #7 to #11

Wisconsin Educational Communications Board’s WHAD unchanged at 1.1, #16 to #15

Number One 6+: news/talk WISN, second successive month, 9.6 – 9.8, +.2

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLDB (+1.0)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: country WMIL (-1.2)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 6.2 – 6.6, +.4, sixth to fourth

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 1.0 – 1.1, +.1, #19 to #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” 5.5 – 4.4, -1.1, seventh to eighth

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) 1.2 – 1.1, -.1, locked at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 3.8 – 3.0, -.8, #10 to #12

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA, first month, 7.5 – 14.3, +6.8

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WJXA (+6.8)*

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WUBT (-1.8)

*Represents the largest January 2023 – February 2023 increase (6+) of any station from the 48 PPM-markets

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 5.0 – 4.9, -.1, anchored in seventh-place

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” flat at .4, repeats at #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Bruins, Celtics) 4.2 – 3.8, -.4, continues in eighth-place

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” steady at 2.5, #12 to #11

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.2 – 3.8, +.6, ninth to eighth

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 2.6 – 2.0, -.6, #11 to #13

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI, fifth month in succession, 10.5 – 8.2, -2.3

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: CHR WPRO-FM (+1.6)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WWLI (-2.3)**

**Represents the largest January 2023 – February 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 2.8 – 2.6, -.2, #13 to #12

News: iHeartMedia-owned WNOH “BIN 105.3 Because Truth Matters” flat at .3, locked at #20

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” steady at 1.8, repeats at #16

Sinclair’s WTAR “Sports Radio 850” .2 – .3, +.1, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, second straight month, 10.1 – 10.0, -.1

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WTWV (+1.7)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: rhythmic CHR WNVZ (-1.2)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 7.8 – 7.4 -.4, repeats in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.0 – 3.8, +.8, #13 to #10

Number One 6+: Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WEJZ, first month, 8.1 – 9.3, +1.2

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WEJZ (+1.2)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WJBT (-1.1)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 1.7 – 2.1, +.4, #11 to #10

cluster-mate WJNO “News Radio 1290” 1.7 – 1.5, -.2, #11 to #13

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” .9 -1.0, +.1, repeats at #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” (Florida Panthers) .9 – .7, -.2, #14 to #16

iHeartMedia-owned WBZT “Sports Radio 1230 The Gambler” flat at .2, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 3.1 – 2.6, -.5, seventh to eighth

co-owned WLRN-HD2’s internet stream flat at .2, #18 to #20

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting classic hits-oldies WEAT, first month, 7.3 – 10.2, +2.9

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WEAT (+2.9)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: classic rock WKGR (-.7)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 3.9 – 4.9, +1.0, remains in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 2.8 – 2.4, -.4, stays at #10

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.9 – 1.5, -.4, #14 to #15

Number One 6+: Audacy adult hits WSMW, second month in a row, 12.2 – 12.5, +.3

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: country WTQR (+1.1)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WMAG (-.9)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 3.9 – 2.9, -1.0, #8 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 3.9 – 4.0, +.1, eighth to seventh

WFMS’ internet stream .4 – .5, +.1, stays at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.4 – 1.1, -.3, #15 to #16

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO, 15^thsuccessive month, 11.8 – 10.6, -1.2

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WRVR (+1.5)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: hot AC WMC-FM (-1.3)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 5.1 – 5.7, +.6, eighth to sixth

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” unchanged at 1.0, continues at #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 2.0 – 1.6, -.4, repeats at #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 5.7 – 5.3, -.4, remains in seventh-place

New England Public Media’s WFCR and its internet stream are both steady at .4 and stay at #19

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 37^th month in a row, 10.9 – 13.7, +2.8

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WRCH (+2.8)

Largest 6+ January 2023 – February 2023 Decrease: CHR WKSS (-2.0)

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

Industry News

Talk Host Mark Kaye Creates Biden “Top Secret” Gag Memo Pads

By TALKERS | March 1, 2023 by TALKERS

WOKV-FM, Jacksonville-based talk radio host Mark Kaye is selling notepads that he designed to look like top secret government documents found at President Joe Biden’s home and he says they’ve been “selling like hotcakes and have been found inside the offices of several congressional republicans.” Kaye says, “When we found out Joe Biden was keeping top secret documents in an old cardboard box in his garage, we just couldn’t believe it. I turned to my producer and said, ‘He’s treating them like scrap paper. I bet he uses them to take notes, or write out grocery lists, or doodle!’ That’s how I got the idea for the notepads. Two days later we had a prototype ready to go and began selling them like crazy!”

Pictured above is U.S. Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL) showing off her note from Kaye and to the right is what the notepads look like.

Features

January 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

By TALKERS | February 27, 2023 by TALKERS

January 2023 PPM Data – Information for the January 2023 survey period has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford.

Nielsen Audio’s January 2023 sweep covered January 5 – February 1.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 (6+).

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media Group’s KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 4.4 – 5.1, +.7, repeats in fifth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio-owned KTXX “The Horn” flat at 2.1, #17 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas’ KUT 5.2 – 5.3, +.1, continues at #4

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media Group adult hits KBPA, first month, 8.8 – 9.9, +1.1

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: adult hits KBPA (+1.1)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KKMJ (-4.6)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 10.4 – 8.3, -1.1, repeats in the runner-up slot

News: Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” 1.8, #16 (did not appear in the “Holiday” 2022 report)

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 3.9 – 3.1, -.8, #8 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 9.2 – 8.3, -.9, fourth to second

Number One 6+: Urban One urban AC WFXC, first month, 9.6 – 8.5, -1.1

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: country WNCB and contemporary Christian WCCE (+.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WRAL (-6.3)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Urban One’s WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 5.7 – 7.2, +1.5, locked in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” (Colts) 3.3 – 3.0, -.3, repeats at #12

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” .4 – .7, +.3, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 4.0 – 4.3, +.3, ninth to tenth

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK, first month, 7.9 – 10.4, +2.5

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WJJK (+2.5)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WYXB (-7.8)

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 8.8 – 9.6, +.8 third to first

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Bucks) 6.2 – 7.5, +1.3, anchored in fifth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” (Green Bay Packers) 1.6 – 1.7, +.1, repeats at #15

Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” 1.0 – 1.1, +.1, #17 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 3.3 – 4.5, +1.2, #11 to #7

Wisconsin Educational Communications Board’s WHAD .6 – 1.1, +.5, #21 to #16

Number One 6+: news/talk WISN, first month, 8.8 – 9.6, +.8

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: country WMIL (+2.1)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLDB (-3.4)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 4.9 – 6.2, +1.3, seventh to sixth

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 1.2 – 1.0, -.2, #17 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” (Tennessee Titans) 6.6 – 5.5, -1.1, fourth to seventh

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) 1.1 – 1.2, +.1, repeats at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 2.6 – 3.8, +1.2, #13 to #10

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult hits WCJK, first month, 8.1 – 9.3, +1.2

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WUBT (+1.5)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WJXA (-6.9)

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 4.5 – 5.0, +.5, repeats in seventh-place

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .5 – .4, -.1, #18 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Bruins, Celtics, New England Patriots) 4.0 – 4.2, +2, locked in eighth-place

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 2.2 – 2.5, +.3, #11 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.3 – 3.2, -.1, continues in ninth-place

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN flat at 2.6, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI, fourth month in succession, 16.9 – 10.5, -6.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WWBB (+1.5)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WWLI (-6.4)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” flat at 2.8, #11 to #13

News: iHeartMedia-owned WNOH “BIN 105.3 Because Truth Matters” .8 – 1.3, +.5, repeats at #20

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.6 – 1.8, +.2, #17 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, first month, 9.0 – 10.1, +1.1

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic rock WAFX (+2.5)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WWDE (-6.6)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 6.1 – 7.8 +1.7, fifth to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 2.8 – 3.0, +.2, #11 to #13

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia country WQIK, first month, 7.1 – 10.0, +2.9

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: country WQIK (+2.9)*

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WEJZ (-10.0)**

*Represents the largest “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

**Represents the largest “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WJNO “News Radio 1290” 1.1 – 1.7, +.6, #13 to #11 and cluster-mate WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” flat at 1.7, #10 to #11

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 1.0 -.9, -.1, #15 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” (Florida Panthers) 1.1 – .9, -.2, #13 to #14

iHeartMedia-owned WBZT “Sports Radio 1230 The Gambler” unchanged at .2, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 3.2 – 3.1, -.1, repeats in seventh-place and the stream of co-owned WLRN-HD2 .2, #18 (unlisted in “Holiday” 2022)

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF, first month, 7.6 – 8.2, +.6

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian WAYF (+1.1)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WOLL (-1.2)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 3.2 – 3.9, +.7, locked in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 2.6 – 2.8, +.2, ninth to tenth

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.3 – 1.9, +.6, #13 to #14

Number One 6+: Audacy adult hits WSMW, first month, 9.8 – 12.2, +2.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: adult hits WSMW (+2.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WMAG (-9.5)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.6 – 3.9, +1.3, #13 to #8

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 3.6 – 3.9, +.3, ninth to eighth and WFMS’ internet stream flat at .4, #21 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.1 – 1.4, +.3, #17 to #15

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO, 14^thsuccessive month, 13.2 – 11.8, -1.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: gospel WHAL (+1.3)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WRVR (-3.5)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” flat at 5.1, sixth to eighth

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” steady at 1.0, #17 to #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” unchanged at 2.0, #13 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR flat at 5.7, fifth to seventh

New England Public Media’s WFCR steady at .4, #18 to #19 and WFCR’s internet stream .2 – .4, +.2, #20 to #19

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 36^th month in a row, 15.8 – 10.9, -4.9

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: CHR WKSS (+2.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WRCH (-4.9)

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

Industry News

Erick Erickson Inks Extension with CMG’s “95.5 WSB”

By TALKERS | February 16, 2023 by TALKERS

Talk radio host Erick Erickson and Cox Media Group announce that Erickson will continue hosting his popular show for three more years from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm on WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta “95.5 WSB.” His program is also heard on CMG news/talk stations WDBO, Orlando; WGAU, Athens, Georgia; KRMG-FM, Tulsa; WOKV-FM, Jacksonville, and WHIO-AM/FM, Dayton. WSB director of branding and programming Ken Charles says, “For more than a decade, Erick has done a great job of entertaining and informing the WSB audience about the biggest news stories of the day. I’m proud we’ll continue our partnership for another three years, and I’m excited about what new things we can create moving forward. The best is yet to come!” Erickson says, “‘95.5 WSB’ is not just home, it’s the gold standard of talk radio, with incredible leadership from Ken Charles and Jaleigh Long. I fell into the role by accident 12 years ago. It’s not just the longest job I’ve had, it’s three hours of joy every day working with the best people in radio. I simply cannot imagine doing anything else anywhere else with any team other than the hard-working talent at ‘95.5 WSB.’”

Ratings Takeaways

Holiday 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

By TALKERS | January 30, 2023 by TALKERS

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

Nielsen Audio’s Holiday 2022 sweep covered December 8 (2022) – January 4 (2023).

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 (6+).

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media Group KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 4.7 – 4.4, -.3, sixth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” 2.3 – 2.1, -.2, flat at #17

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas-owned KUT 5.7 – 5.2, -.5, third to fourth

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary KKMJ, second month in a row, 9.0 – 10.7, +1.7

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary KKMJ (+1.7)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: regional Mexican KLZT (-1.7)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 9.2 – 10.4, +1.2, first to second

News: Capitol Broadcasting-owned WRAL-HD3 “WRAL News+” .3 – .2, -.1, #23 to #16

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 2.7 – 3.9, +1.2, #13 to #8 and co-owned WCMC-HD2 flat at .3, #23 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 8.2 – 9.2, +1.0, second to fourth

Number One 6+: Capitol Broadcasting adult contemporary WRAL, first month, 6.9 – 11.6, +4.7

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WRAL (+4.7)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: classic rock WRDU (-.4)

Note: Seven (7) Curtis Media Group-owned stations that appeared in the December 2022 top twenty are no longer subscribers and are unlisted in “Holiday” 2022. In addition to news/talk WPTF (#18 in December 2022), the others are: classic hits-oldies WKIX-FM (#5); adult hits WBBB (#7); country WQDR-FM (#8); classic hits-oldies WKIX-AM (#15); CHR WPLW (#15); and regional Mexican WYMY (#15).

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Urban One’s WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 7.1 – 5.7, -1.4, repeats in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” (Colts) 3.7 – 3.3, -.4, #11 to #12

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” .7 – .4, -.3, #18 to #19

Audacy’s WXNT “CBS Sports 1430” .3 – .4, +.1, #21 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 4.4 – 4.0, -.4, anchored at #9

Number One 6+: Urban One adult contemporary WYXB, second month in a row, 11.5 – 17.1, +5.6

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WYXB (+5.6)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WJJK (-1.8)

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 9.9 – 8.8, -1.1, first to third

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Bucks) 6.6 – 6.2, -.4, locked in fifth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” (Green Bay Packers) 2.4 – 1.6, -.8, #14 to #15

Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” steady at 1.0, #19 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 4.1 – 3.3, -.8, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WRIT, first month, 8.3 – 11.2, +2.9

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WRIT (+2.9)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: news/talk WISN (-1.1)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “SuperTalk 99.7” 4.4 – 4.9, +.5, eighth to seventh

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 1.3 – 1.2, -.1, #18 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” (Tennessee Titans) 7.3 – 6.6, -.7, third to fourth

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) 1.4 – 1.1, -.3, #15 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 4.0 – 2.6, -1.4, #10 to #13

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA, second month in succession, 11.9 – 14.4, +2.5

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WJXA (+2.5)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WPLN-FM (-1.4)

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 5.3 – 4.5, -.8, fifth to seventh

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” flat at .5, continues at #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Bruins, Celtics, New England Patriots) 4.5 – 4.0, -.5, anchored in eighth-place

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 2.8 – 2.2, -.6, remains at #11

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.5 – 3.3, -.2, repeats in ninth-place

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 2.9 – 2.6, -.3, stays at #10

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI, third month in succession, 10.5 – 16.9, +6.4

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WWLI (+6.4)*

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease (Tie): CHR WPRO-FM and country WCTK (-1.4)

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

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 4.4 – 2.8, -1.6, #7 to #11

News: iHeartMedia-owned WNOH “BIN 105.3 Because Truth Matters” 1.5 – .8, -.7, #17 to #20

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” flat at 1.6, #16 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WWDE, second month in a row, 10.2 – 14.4, +4.2

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WWDE (+4.2)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: news/talk WNIS (-1.6)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 6.9 – 6.1 -.8, fourth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WOKV-AM “ESPN Jacksonville 690 AM” .3 – .6, +.3, #21 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.0 – 2.8, -.2, locked at #11

Number One 6+: Renda adult contemporary WEJZ, second consecutive month, 14.0 – 18.1, +4.1

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WEJZ (+4.1)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: country WQIK (-1.9)**

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

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 2.1 – 1.7, -.4, repeats in tenth-place and cluster-mate WJNO “News Radio 1290” 1.3 – 1.1, -.2, flat at #13

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” .9 – 1.0, +.1, anchored at #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” (Florida Panthers) .8 – 1.1, +.3, #16 to #13

iHeartMedia-owned WBZT “Sports Radio 1230 The Gambler” steady at .2, remains at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s flat at 3.2, carries on at #7

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting classic hits-oldies WEAT, first month, 7.0 – 7.8, +.8

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WOLL (+1.3)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: contemporary Christian WAYF (-1.3)

Note: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF had been #1 the past 12 months

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 4.7 – 3.2, -1.5, repeats in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 2.5 – 2.6, +.1, #11 to #9

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.9 – 1.3, -.6, flat at #13

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMAG, second month in a row, 12.8 – 17.4, +4.6

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WMAG (+4.6)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: news/talk WPTI (-1.5)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.7 – 2.6, -.1, remains at #13

Cumulus Media-owned WKIM “News/Talk 98.9, The Roar of Memphis” 1.9 – 2.1, +.2, continues at #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 3.8 – 3.6, -.2, repeats in ninth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.3 – 1.1, -.2, #18 to #17

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO, 13^thsuccessive month, 11.7 – 13.2, +1.5

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: urban contemporary WHRK (+1.6)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: urban contemporary KXHT (-1.6)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 5.6 – 5.1, -.5, fifth to sixth

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” flat at 1.0, stays at #17

iHeartMedia’s WPOP “News Radio 1410 AM & 100.9 FM” unchanged at .2, #21 to #20

WTIC-AM’s internet stream steady at .2, #21 to #20

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 1.8 – 2.0, +.2, #14 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 7.0 – 5.7, -1.3, third to fifth

New England Public Media’s WFCR unchanged at .4, #20 to #18 and WFCR’s internet stream .2, #20 (did not appear in the December 2022 sweep)

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 35^th month in a row, 15.0 – 15.8, +.8

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WRCH (+.8)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WNPR (-1.3)

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

Front Page News Industry News

Friday, November 4, 2022

By Editor | November 4, 2022 by Editor

iHeartMedia Q3 Revenue Up 7%. Reporting its financial data for the third quarter of 2022, iHeartMedia says revenue was $989 million, an increase of 7% over the same quarter a year ago. The company is also posting an operating loss of $211 million for the third quarter of 2022 compared to the operating income of $80 million it reported for Q3 of 2021. Additionally, iHeartMedia reports a net loss of almost $310 million compared to the net income of $3.6 million it posted in the third quarter of 2021. iHeartMedia breaks its operations into three segments. Third quarter results for those segments are as follows: the Multiplatform Group that includes its radio stations and program networks was basically flat with a revenue increase of 0.1% “as a result of increased political advertising revenue as 2022 is a midterm election year, partially offset by a decrease in revenue due to a more challenging macroeconomic environment. Broadcast revenue grew $2.1 million, or 0.4% year-over-year, driven by higher political advertising revenue and an increase in trade and barter revenue, partially offset by lower spot revenue, while Networks declined $(0.7) million, or 0.5% year-over-year.” The Digital Audio Group was up 23.4% on revenue of $254 million. This group’s revenue increased by $48.2 million compared to the prior year, “including growth from Digital, excluding Podcast revenue, which grew $21.1 million to $162.7 million, driven by increased demand for digital advertising as well as Podcast revenue which increased by $27.1 million to $91.3 million, driven by higher revenues from the development of new podcasts as well as growth from existing podcasts. Digital Audio Group revenue increased as a result of general increased demand for digital advertising and the growing popularity of podcasting.” And the Audio & Media Services Group was up 17.7% on revenue of $77.8 million. Chairman and CEO Bob Pittman says, “We’re pleased to report another quarter of solid operating results for iHeart, and our performance in the midst of the current climate of economic uncertainty is a strong indication of the successful transformation this company has undergone in which our high-growth digital revenues comprises 26% of total company revenues. Our Digital Audio Group continues to deliver industry-leading growth, and our Multiplatform Group has again demonstrated its resiliency during a difficult economic environment. We believe the strong positions of both of these groups with both consumers and advertisers give us the ability to both navigate through this period of economic uncertainty and position us for continued growth through the recovery and beyond.”

Salem Media Group Total Revenue Rises 1.3%. The company reports that its total revenue for the third quarter of 2022 was $66.9 million, an increase of 1.3% over the same period in 2021. Salem Media Group also reports an operating loss of $8.8 million compared to operating income of $15.8 million in Q3 of 2021, and a net loss of $11.9 million compared to the net income of $22.1 million is reported during the same period in 2021. Salem presents its financial data in three segments. The Broadcast segment reports revenue of $51.1 million, an increase of 3.1% over Q3 of 2021, Digital Media revenue was $10.2 million, down 4.3% from the third quarter of 2021, and Publishing revenue was $5.5 million, a decrease of 3.7% from the same period a year ago.

Round Four of October PPMs Released. The fourth and final round of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s October 2022 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen’s October 2022 sweep covered September 15 – October 12. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In the Raleigh market, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WTKK-FM tacks on three-tenths to wrap the survey with a 9.1 share that puts it in the #1 spot, while Curtis Media Group’s news/talk WPTF sheds one-tenth for a 1.8 share finish to remain ranked #15. The top dogs in Milwaukee flip as iHeartMedia’s news/talk WISN adds a full share for a 10.6 share finish that lifts it from #2 to #1, while Good Karma Brands’ WTMJ loses 1.9 shares for an 8.1 share finish that drops it from #1 to #4. Cumulus Media’s news/talk WPRO-AM/WEAN-FM, Providence adds on nine-tenths for wrap the survey with a 6.4 share that lifts it from #6 to #5. And in Jacksonville, Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM is up one-tenth to a 7.9 share good for the #3 rank in the market. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets (as well as the previous three groups) here.

Comrex Unveils New BRIC-Link III Audio Codec. The company officially unveils BRIC-Link III – the newest addition to its popular BRIC-Link family of codecs. Comrex says there are more than 10,000 BRIC-Link codecs circulating world-wide, and BRIC-Link III is an updated version that takes advantage of the latest improvements in IP audio transmission technology. BRIC-Link III is a true codec, offering a full-duplex stereo encoder and decoder in each box. A jitter buffer manager is incorporated that automatically balances delay and stability, dynamically increasing and decreasing delay based on network performance. BRIC-link III offers a wide range of encoding algorithms including stereo and mono linear mode, FLAC modes, AAC/HE-AAC modes, Opus, G.722 and G.711. BRIC-Link III features a new, more powerful processor for improved reliability. It also features enhanced front panel indicators, including four buttons which will trigger contact closures by default and configurable for auto-connections to other Comrex IP audio codecs. BRIC-Link III is compatible with all other Comrex IP audio codecs, including the ACCESS codec line as well as older BRIC-Link models. BRIC-Link III also works with Gagl, a new service now available for purchase for audio contribution. Gagl turns any Comrex IP audio codec into a hub for up to five remote participants. Like other BRIC-Link codecs, BRIC-Link III includes CrossLock VPN technology, Comrex’s proprietary suite of reliability tools. In addition to bonding technology, CrossLock also includes a Redundancy Mode for mission-critical applications. BRIC-Link III can take advantage of HotSwap, meaning that users can set a 4G/5G modem as a backup connection to only be engaged when the primary internet fails, providing an extra layer of reliability. Customers can also choose to purchase an optional one-time license per codec to utilize SwitchBoard, a private server that Comrex maintains which allows for easy connections between IP codecs. You can get more information on this and other Comrex products here.

GAB Radio Talent Institute Returns to University of Georgia. The RAB’s National Radio Talent System announces the return of the GAB Radio Talent Institute at the Grady School of Journalism at the University of Georgia. The institute takes place in person May 15 – 24, 2023 thanks to sponsorship from The Georgia Association of Broadcasters. The talent incubator spans 10 days and is led by broadcast professionals that bring their real-world industry knowledge from around the state and country to educate students. RAB says that college students from universities throughout the state and region apply to be accepted into the GAB Radio Talent Institute. This provides an ideal networking pool for the students and a wide variety of potential interests within the classroom for industry professionals to identify and actively recruit from. Upon completion of the Institute, students can further their networking capabilities with the ability to access the National Radio Talent System’s Career Center. RAB president and CEO Erica Farber states, “We are delighted to have the GAB Radio Talent Institute make its return after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic. Collaborating with Bob Houghton and the Georgia Association of Broadcasters enables us to bring this world-class program to life in the southeast and further develop the next generation of broadcasters.”

TALKERS News Notes. Inside Towers’ Leslie Stimson writes an interesting piece about the FCC’s creation of a Space Bureau. Stimson writes that FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel announced the move at the Satellite Industry Association meeting yesterday (11/3). “She said the growth of satellite broadband internet plays a big part in why the agency is making the move. ‘Ninety-eight percent of all satellite launches in 2021 were deployed into low-earth orbit to provide internet connectivity back here on Earth. They can help advance the FCC’s goals to connect everyone, everywhere,’ Rosenworcel said. ‘More than that, the success of these low-earth orbit communications satellites could be seen as an early litmus test for the broader commercialization of space.’” Read Stimson’s entire piece here…..Three Hillsdale College students have won national College Broadcasters, Inc. awards for their work with “Radio Free Hillsdale 101.7 FM.” The awards were announced at the National Student Electronic Media Convention in Baltimore. Sophomore Lauren Smyth placed first in Best Newscast or Sportscast category for “Lauren Smyth News,” senior Josh Barker placed third in Best Hard News Reporting for his feature “The Policy Corner: Michigan Voting Laws,” and Rachel Kookogey (class of ’22) received both first and second place for two segments of her feature, “Sports Story Time.” WRFH general manager Scot Bertram says, “I’m very proud of our students for their well-deserved wins. It is great to see our students being recognized on the national level for their continued hard work and dedication.”…..SiriusXM announces its play-by-play coverage of the 2022-23 college basketball season that begins Monday (11/7). The opening night schedule features 24 teams from the men’s Associated Press Top 25, including defending national champion and #5-ranked Kansas facing Omaha and top-ranked North Carolina, coming off their 12th National Championship appearance, hosting UNC Wilmington…..Host Bethenny Frankel, the most successful business mogul to emerge from “The Real Housewives” franchise, and iHeartPodcasts launch a first-of-its-kind rewatch podcast titled, “ReWives.” Frankel, formerly of Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of New York,” breaks down the franchise that launched her career. In each episode, she’s “joined by unexpected celebrity guests ranging from superfans to Housewives newbies for hilarious conversations and surprising insight on real topics.” “ReWives” premieres on November 14 with Elisabeth Moss as Frankel’s first guest. New episodes will post each Monday with additional guests including Jerry Springer, Suze Orman, Kevin Nealon, Dave Portnoy, Griffin Johnson and more.

Broadcaster Raising Awareness of Need for Organ Donors. Western Massachusetts broadcaster and public relations pro Mark Auerbach (pictured) is revealing his battle with kidney disease in an effort to raise awareness of the need for organ donors. Auerbach hosts “ArtsBeat,” “On The Mark” and “Athenaeum Spotlight” on WCPC15 and 89.5fm/WSKB. He’s also the ArtsBeat reporter for Pioneer Valley Radio. On today’s program that you can see here, Auerbach reveals his battle with Stage 5 kidney disease and the need for donors. Auerbach says people can help by taking any of three steps: 1) becoming an organ donor upon your death; 2) consider donating while you’re alive (get details at kidney.org); and 3) donating to him at Mass General Hospital’s living donors program (https://mghlivingdonors.org/).

Politics and Midterms Top News/Talk Story for Week of October 31 – November 4. The politics leading up to Tuesday’s midterm elections were the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio, landing atop the Talkers Ten^TM. At #2 this week was the economy combined with the Fed’s rate hike, followed by the aftermath of the Pelosi home invasion at #3. The Talkers Ten^TM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Ratings Takeaways

October 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

By Editor | November 4, 2022 by Editor

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

Nielsen Audio’s October 2022 sweep covered September 15 – October 12.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are September 2022 – October 2022 (6+).

The NHL season began October 7; NHL and NFL flagships are noted where applicable.

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media-operated KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 4.2 – 4.9, +.7, eighth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” 2.5 – 2.9, +.4, #16 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas-owned KUT 5.7 – 5.9, +.2, third to second

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media-operated adult hits KBPA, tenth month in a row, 9.8 – 10.6, +.8

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: hot AC KGSR (+1.1)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: country KASE (-1.4)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 8.8 – 9.1, +.3, first

Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, repeats at #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 2.0 – 2.5, +.5, #13 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 7.4 – 7.9, +.5, anchored in the runner-up slot

Number One 6+: news/talk WTKK, second month in a row, 8.8 – 9.1, +.3

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: urban AC WQOK (+.8)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WRAL (-1.1)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Urban One’s WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 9.9 – 8.8, -1.1, continues in the runner-up slot

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” (Colts) 2.2 – 2.5, +.3, repeats at #12

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” .3 – .5, +.2, #20 to #19

Audacy’s WXNT “CBS Sports 1430” .5, #19 (did not appear in September 2022)

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 4.1 – 3.9, -.2, stays in tenth-place

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK, tenth successive month, 11.2 – 12.0, +.8

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: rhythmic CHR WHHH (+1.4)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease (Tie): news/talk WIBC and jazz-classical WICR (-1.1)

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 9.6 – 10.6, +1.0 second to first

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” 10.0 – 8.1, -1.9, first to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” (Green Bay Packers) 1.3 – 2.1, +.8, #15 to #14

Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” 1.2 – 1.1, -.1, repeats at #16

iHeartMedia’s WOKY “The Big 920” .6 – .8, +.2, #22 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM flat at 4.1, ninth to tenth

Wisconsin Educational Communications Board’s WHAD 1.0 – .8, -.2, #17 to #18

Number One 6+: news/talk WISN, first month, 9.6 – 10.6, +1.0

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: rock WHQG (+1.3)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: news/talk WTMJ (-1.9)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 5.9 – 5.0, -.9, sixth to ninth

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 1.6 – 1.5, -.1, repeats at #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” (Tennessee Titans) 6.1 – 7.9, +1.8, fifth to second

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) .9 – 1.2, +.3, steady at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 5.4 – 4.3, -1.1, #9 to #11

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult hits WCJK, tenth month in a row, 9.0 – 8.3, -.7

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: sports talk WGFX (+1.8)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WPLN-FM (-1.1)

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 5.5 – 6.4, +.9, sixth to fifth

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” flat at .4, unchanged at #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Bruins, New England Patriots) 3.7 – 4.7, +1.0, eighth to seventh

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 3.2 – 2.7, -.5, ninth to tenth

Cumulus Media’s WPRV “790 The Score” flat at .1, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 2.7 – 3.1, +.4, #11 to #9

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 2.8 – 2.6, -.2, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia rock WHJY, ninth straight month, 9.8 – 8.7, -1.1

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WNBH (+1.7)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WWBB (-1.2)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 4.1 – 5.0, +.9, ninth to seventh

News: iHeartMedia-owned WNOH “BIN 105.3 Because Truth Matters” .6 – .4, -.2, repeats at #20

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.9 – 2.3, +.4, #15 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, tenth month in succession, 9.2 – 9.7, +.5

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: urban contemporary WOWI (+2.2)*

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: adult hits WNOB (-1.3)

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

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 7.8 – 7.9 +.1, fourth to third

News: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 2.5 – 3.0, +.5, continues at #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia country WQIK, fourth consecutive month, 11.5 – 10.6, -.9

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: gospel WKSL-HD3 (+.8)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: country WQIK (-.9)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 2.2 – 2.3 +.1, eighth to ninth and cluster-mate WJNO “News Radio 1290” flat at 1.3, #11 to #12

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” .9 – .6, -.3, #14 to #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” (Florida Panthers) .5 – .6, +.1, #16 to #15

iHeartMedia-owned WBZT “Sports Radio 1230 The Gambler” flat at .2, repeats at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 3.8 – 3.4, -.4, anchored in seventh-place

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF, tenth month in succession, 10.5 – 8.9, -1.6

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: contemporary Christian WAYF (+1.6)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: hot AC WRMF (-1.6)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 4.8 – 5.0, +.2, repeats in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 2.6 – 2.5, -.1, flat at #12

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

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WQMG, tenth month in a row, 10.9 – 11.0, +.1

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: adult hits WSMW (+1.6)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: classic rock WKRR (-1.0)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 3.3 – 3.0, -.3, #11 to #13

Cumulus Media-owned WKIM “News/Talk 98.9, The Roar of Memphis” 1.0 – 1.3, +.3, #19 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” 3.0 – 3.4, +.4, #13 to #12 and WMFS’ internet stream .3 – .4, +.1, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.2 – 1.5, +.3, repeats at #16

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO, tenth successive month, 16.7 – 12.5, -4.2

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase: hot AC WMC-FM (+1.6)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO (-4.2)**

**Represents the largest September 2022 – October 2022 decrease (6+) of any station from all 48 PPM-markets

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 3.6 – 4.7, +1.1, ninth to eighth

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” flat at 1.0, #14 to #15

iHeartMedia’s WPOP “News Radio 1410 AM & 100.9 FM” steady at .2, repeats at #20

Audacy-owned WTIC-AM’s internet stream unchanged at .2, stays at #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 1.0- 1.4, +.4, continues at #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 8.5 – 6.1, -2.4, third to fifth

New England Public Media’s WFCR .2 – .4, +.2, #20 to #19

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 32^nd month in a row, 12.1 – 11.2, -.9

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Increase (Tie): country WWYZ and news/talk WTIC-AM (+1.1)

Largest 6+ September 2022 – October 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WNPR (-2.4)

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

Ratings Takeaways

July 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

By Editor | August 12, 2022 by Editor

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

Nielsen Audio’s July 2022 sweep covered June 23 – July 20.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are June 2022 – July 2022 (6+).

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media-operated KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 5.2 – 3.2, -2.0, #7 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” 1.8 – 1.5, -.3, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas-owned KUT 5.9 – 5.8, -.1, third to fourth

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media-operated adult hits KBPA, seventh month in a row, 8.7 – 10.1, +1.4

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Increase: adult hits KBPA (+1.4)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Decrease: news/talk KLBJ-AM (-2.0)*

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

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” flat at 8.0, repeats in third-place

Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” 1.7 – 1.8, +.1, #17 to #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” 1.9 – 1.2, -.7, #14 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 7.7 – 8.1, +.4, fourth to second

Number One 6+: Capitol Broadcasting adult contemporary WRAL, fifth successive month 9.4 – 10.2, +.8

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Increase (Tie): classic rock WRDU and regional Mexican WYMY (+.9)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Decrease: urban AC WFXC (-1.1)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Emmis’ WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 9.4 – 7.9, -1.5, locked in second-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Emmis-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” 2.8 – 2.4, -.4, #12 to #14

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” flat at .3, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 4.0 – 4.2, +.2, tenth to ninth

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK, seventh successive month, 12.6 – 11.4, -1.2

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Increase: country WFMS (+1.4)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Decrease: news/talk WIBC (-1.5)

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 9.0 – 9.9, +.9, third to first

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Brewers) 11.4 – 9.6, -1.8, first to second

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” steady at .9, #17 to #15

iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” .8 – .9, +.1, #18 to #15

Audacy’s WSSP “1250 AM The Fan” .8 – .7, -.1, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 4.2 – 4.4, +.2, repeats in ninth-place

Number One 6+: news/talk WISN, first month, 9.0 – 9.9, +.9

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Increase: classic rock WKLH (+1.1)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Decrease: news/talk WTMJ (-1.8)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 6.9 – 6.2, -.7, fourth to sixth

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 1.7 – 2.5, +.8, #16 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” flat at 2.1, #13 to #15

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” .9 – .8, -.1, remains at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 5.4 – 5.1, -.3, eighth to ninth

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult hits WCJK, seventh month in a row, 9.8 – 10.4, +.6

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Increase: classic rock WNRQ (+1.4)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Decrease: country WKDF (-1.5)

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 4.6 – 4.0, -.6, sixth to seventh

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .6 – .7, +.1, #17 to #16

Cumulus Media’s WPRV “AM 790” .2, #20 (unlisted in June 2022)

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 3.8 – 3.7, -.1, locked in eighth-place

Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” 3.3 – 2.8, -.5, ninth to tenth

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 2.9 – 3.2, +.3, tenth to ninth

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 2.3 – 2.5, +.2, #12 to #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia rock WHJY, sixth straight month, 11.5 – 10.0, -1.5

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WWBB (+1.3)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Decrease: rock WHJY (-1.5)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 3.3 – 3.4, +.1, locked in tenth-place

News: iHeartMedia-owned WNOH “BIN 105.3 Because Truth Matters” .3 – .4, +.1, stays at #20

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.2 – 1.6, +.4, repeats at #18

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

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, seventh month in succession, 10.0 – 9.7, -.3

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Increase (Tie): adult contemporary WWDE and hot AC WPTE (+.7)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Decrease: rock WNOR (-.7)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 9.2 – 8.1 -1.1, second to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WOKV-AM “ESPN Jacksonville 690 AM” .6 – .5, -.1, #19 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.1 – 2.8, -.3, flat at #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia country WQIK, first month, 8.7 – 10.2, +1.5

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Increase: country WQIK (+1.5)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Decrease: news/talk WOKV-FM (-1.1)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 1.0 – 3.4, +2.4, #13 to #7

iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 2.4 – 2.1 -.3, eighth to tenth and cluster-mate WJNO “News Radio 1290” 1.4 – 1.7, +.3, #12 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” .6 – .4, -.2, #15 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 3.0 – 2.4, -.6, seventh to eighth

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF, seventh month in succession, 8.9 – 9.7, +.8

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Increase: news/talk WFTL (+2.4)**

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Decrease (Tie): adult contemporary WOLL; urban AC WMBX; and public radio news/talk WLRN (-.6)

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

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” flat at 5.8, seventh to eighth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 2.5 – 2.2, -.3, repeats at #12

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.1 – 1.6, +.5, stays at #14

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WQMG, seventh month in a row, 11.0 – 10.2, -.8

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Increase: country WPAW (+1.8)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Decrease: classic rock WKRR (-.9)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 3.0 – 4.0, +1.0, #11 to #8

Cumulus Media-owned WKIM “News/Talk 98.9, The Roar of Memphis” unchanged at .7, remains at #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” 3.0 – 3.1, +.1, repeats at #11 and WMFS’ internet stream .6 – .5, -.1, stays at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.9 – 1.5, -.4, #16 to #17

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO, seventh successive month, 13.4 – 12.5, -.9

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Increase: urban AC KJMS (+1.1)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Decrease: gospel WHAL (-1.5)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 5.3 – 4.9, -.4, repeats in eighth-place and WTIC-AM’s internet stream .2 – .6, +.4, #21 to #17

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” .6 – .4, -.2, #18 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” .8 – .7, -.1, #15 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 7.5 – 7.9, +.4, second to fourth

New England Public Media’s WFCR .4 – .2, -.2, flat at #20

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 29^th month in a row, 12.0 – 11.0, -1.0

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Increase: hot AC WTIC-FM (+2.2)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022 Decrease: alternative WMRQ (-1.1)

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

Front Page News Industry News

Monday, July 18, 2022

By Editor | July 18, 2022 by Editor

Pending Business: SiriusXM’s Chutzpah. Radio sales pro Steve Lapa says AM/FM radio needs a stronger response to attacks like the broadside leveled at it by SiriusXM last week in its “Why waste your time with AM/FM radio? campaign. “Timing is everything and as much as it hurts, the “Why waste your time?” ad was well played. AM/FM radio can’t afford to ignore a broadside attack. Playing the local, free and emergency cards is a solid first step. Every AM/FM radio listener and advertiser can use a reminder. Just like a utility, we take it for granted until it’s not there when you need it.” He offers three concepts for development that support radio’s value. Read it here.

Monday Memo: Dine with Seinfeld’s Parents. Consultant Holland Cooke continues his month-long series “Inflation Hacks, money-saving tactics for your listeners (and yourself).” In this week’s column, HC offers “escape from Ramen, and your dentist!” Read it here.

‘The Big Picture’ Panel Video from TALKERS 2020 Posted. Today (7/18), the video of the panel discussion titled, “The Big Picture,” from the recent TALKERS 2022 convention at Hofstra University is posted. The panel was moderated by TALKERS magazine publisher Michael Harrison (who was introduced by Dottie Herman, vice-chair, Douglas Elliman Real Estate and host of “Eye on Real Estate” heard on WNYM, New York “AM 970 The Answer”) Panelists included: Vince Benedetto, CEO, Bold Gold Media Group; Lee Habeeb, host/producer, “Our American Stories”; Kraig Kitchin, CEO, Sound Mind, LLC; Josh Leng, CEO, Talk Media Network; and Chris Oliviero, president/market manager, Audacy New York. See the video here.

Salem Rises to Prominence in Conservative Media. In a profile piece published in TALKERS magazine today (7/18), executive editor Kevin Casey chronicles some of the history of Salem Media Group and highlights the company’s steadily growing prominence in the conservative media universe. At the very heart of Salem Media Group is its philosophy and mission. Co-founder and executive chairman of the board Ed Atsinger says, “Salem’s leadership enthusiastically embraces the concept of American exceptionalism – that America is unique in human history as a place where no matter your social status, your ethnicity, your religion, or your country of origin the American dream is available for the taking. Today there are ideologies conspiring to tear us apart by promoting identity politics under such euphemisms as ‘critical race theory.’ Salem is committed to do all that we can to counteract the forces that would tear us apart, and we have created a company uniquely positioned to achieve that goal. Fortunately, there are enough Americans committed to religious faith and conservative values to help us achieve that goal.” Company SVP of spoken word format Phil Boyce states, “When I joined Salem’s team in early 2012, I had no idea the company was positioned to explode onto the conservative landscape like it did. My 14 year’s experience programming WABC in New York – the most-listened-to news/talk station in the nation – had prepared me well for the explosive times we were about to enter at Salem. We’ve been in a culture war for years in this country, and Salem is able to use its assets to further the cause, doing good, while informing and entertaining our audience.” Read the entire story here.

LiveOne to Spin Off PodcastOne into Separate Company. On Friday (7/15), LiveOne revealed its intention to spin off wholly owned subsidiary PodcastOne, as a separate public company to be listed on a national exchange and its plan to dividend a portion of PodcastOne’s common equity to LiveOne’s more than 15,000 stockholders as of a future record date. LiveOne says it hopes to complete the spin-off be year’s end. Related to the anticipated spin-off, PodcastOne closed a private placement financing of convertible notes and warrants totaling approximately $8.1 million prior to offering expenses, including $3 million invested by LiveOne, whereby the terms of the financing value PodcastOne at a pre-money valuation of $60 million. LiveOne CEO Robert Ellin states, “The goal of both our management team and board of directors is to maximize stockholder value. PodcastOne has been a tremendous addition to LiveOne since our acquisition in 2020, and we feel strongly that the market value of our stock dramatically undervalues the sum of our parts, which includes our PodcastOne subsidiary. Upon the successful completion of the spin out, we believe PodcastOne will be the only major pure play podcast company trading on a national exchange.” PodcastOne president, Kit Gray comments, “The podcasting business has exploded over the past five years and PodcastOne is one of the largest independent podcast companies in the world. The company is one of only two independent podcasting publishers in the top 10 of Podtrac’s list of Top Publishers. We believe that by trading as a separate public company, PodcastOne will have the opportunity to access the public capital markets as well as be better positioned to both acquire podcast platforms and attract significant podcast talent.”

Round Four of June PPMs Released. The fourth and final round of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s June 2022 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen’s June 2022 sweep covered May 26 – June 22. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In Raleigh, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WTKK-FM adds eight-tenths to finish the survey with an 8.0 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) that lifts it to the #3 rank, while Curtis Media Group’s crosstown news/talk WPTF is up two-tenths for a 1.7 share good for the #17 rank. Good Karma Brands’ news/talk WTMJ, Milwaukee solidifies its #1 finish after adding 1.1 shares for an 11.4 share finish, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk WISN sheds six-tenths for a 9.0 and falls back to the #3 rank. Cumulus Media’s news/talk WWTN-FM, Nashville adds a full share for a 6.9 share finish but remains in the #4 rank. Cox Media Group’s news/talk WOKV-FM, Jacksonville remains ranked #2 after dipping four-tenths for a 9.2 share finish. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets (as well as the first three rounds) here.

Up on the Roof. Posing for promo shots on the roof of the Imperial Square Building (that housed the radio station) in Hempstead, Long Island during the Winter of 70-71 is the original airstaff of the legendary progressive rock station WLIR. Pictured (l-r): Richard Neer, Pete Larkin, Don K. Reed and Michael Harrison. All went on to colorful and groundbreaking careers in the media. Reed, who would serve for many years at WCBS-FM, New York, died over the weekend. His cause of death was not reported but it is believed he had been battling heart issues. You can see the memorial tribute video created by Art Vuolo here.

KXEL, Cedar Rapids Celebrates 80^th Anniversary. Pictured above is Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signing the document declaring Thursday, July 14 “KXEL Radio 80th Anniversary Day” in the state. Standing next to her looking on is KXEL host and program director Jeff Stein. The NRG Media news/talk station was the first station in the U.S. to sign on with the maximum 50,000-watts on a clear channel signal. It first took to the air at 5:30 am on July 14, 1942, from studios in downtown Waterloo, Iowa. It was founded by Joe DuMond, a Waterloo native who came to national prominence portraying “Josh Higgins of Finchville” on NBC Radio in the 1930s and 1940s.

Biden in Middle East, Midterms/2024 Presidential Race, The Economy, Uvalde Report, January 6 Hearings, Russia-Ukraine War, COVID-19, European Heatwave/Wildfires Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. President Joe Biden’s trip to the Middle East and his meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud; the November midterm elections and speculation about the nominees for president in 2024; the high inflation rate, unstable stock market, and fears of a recession; the release of the Uvalde School Shooting report; the ongoing January 6 hearings; Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and its impact on the global economy; the climbing rate of subvariant BA.5 COVID cases in the U.S.; the intense heatwave gripping Europe and the Mediterranean wildfires were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Wednesday, July 13, 2022

By Editor | July 13, 2022 by Editor

Hannah Guile Named Executive Producer of Mark Kaye Show. WOKV-FM, Jacksonville air personality Hannah Guile is promoted to executive producer for Cox Media Group’s syndicated “Mark Kaye Show.” In her new role, Guile will handle affiliate relations for the program in addition to continuing her on-air role on the daily news/talk show. WOKV-FM director of branding and programming Jim Graci states, “I love the chemistry that comes through the speakers with Mark and Hannah. You can hear the passion and fun they have working together. I’m anxious to hear this next evolution of the ‘Mark Kaye Show.’” Guile has served with CMG Jacksonville since 2018, starting as a board operator and working her way to an on-air position as one of WOKV-FM’s traffic reporters. She joined the cast of the “Mark Kaye Show” in 2019. Guile comments, “I am overjoyed for this opportunity to expand my role on the ‘Mark Kaye Show.’ I’m super passionate about the show and its ingenious approach to talk radio.” Guile takes over for Josh McCarthy who moved to Orlando to assume the executive producer role for news/talk WDBO.

Round One of June PPMs Released. The first of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s June 2022 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey). Nielsen’s June 2022 sweep covered May 26 – June 22. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In New York City, Red Apple Media’s news/talk WABC slips from #10 to #11 after shedding two tenths for a 3.1 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) finish, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk WOR also loses two-tenths for a 2.0 share finish but rises to the #18 rank. iHeartMedia’s KFI, Los Angeles dips seven-tenths to wrap the survey with a 4.3 share and falls from #3 to #5. Across town, Audacy’s all-news KNX-AM/FM slips one-tenth to finish with a 3.1 share good for the #11 rank. In Chicago, Audacy’s all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM rises three-tenths for a 5.0 share finish that pushes it from the #5 rank to #2. Cumulus Media’s news/talk WBAP, Dallas rises from #10 to #6 after adding four-tenths for a 4.0 share finish, while Audacy’s crosstown all-news KRLD-AM tacks on four-tenths for a 2.5 share and rises to the #18 rank. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeways from this group of markets here.

Curiosity Audio Network to Debut. A partnership between factual media and entertainment company Curiosity Inc. and iHeartMedia launches the Curiosity Audio Network that will develop and release several podcast projects throughout the year. The companies say that Curiosity’s first foray into podcasting will feature original content as well as podcasts to complement programming from Curiosity’s library of documentary films, shows and series. iHeartPodcast Network COO Will Pearson states, “We are thrilled to join forces with Curiosity Inc. to develop premium podcasts for an audience who loves to learn. The Curiosity team has built such an incredible library of knowledge for curious minds and are adding to it all the time, and we can’t wait to bring it to our millions of listeners across the globe.” The first podcast series available is the “One Day University” podcast series, showcasing fascinating lectures delivered by the most beloved professors from some of the world’s top colleges and universities, with episode topics ranging from “Eight Books that Changed the World” to “Abraham Lincoln: Fact vs. Fiction.”

Salem Personality Amanda Carroll Signs with Life Audio Podcast Network. Joining Salem Media Group’s Life Audio Podcast Network is company air personality Amanda Carroll. She is heard on the company’s Sacramento Christian music station “The Fish” and in national syndication via Today’s Christian Music Network. She is founder of the “Get Your Brave On” podcast. The weekly podcast inspires “women to live a strong and courageous life while featuring guests like Joel Smallbone from King and Country, Tasha Layton, and Ben Fuller.” Carroll states, “I’m honored to partner with Salem to help inspire women going through plot twists in life to bounce back with the help of their faith. It’s exciting to see all the years of work growing the ‘Get Your Brave On’ digital platform recognized by Salem for its impact and potential.”

Brett Andrews Named SVP of Programming for iHeartMedia Milwaukee and Madison. Programming pro Brett Andrews is named SVP of programming for iHeartMedia’s Milwaukee and Madison markets. In addition to serving as program director for two of the music-formatted stations, Andrews will be in charge of more than 12 stations including news/talk WISN and sports talk WRNW-FM and WOKY-AM in Milwaukee and news/talk WIBA-AM in Madison. Andrews will report to Colleen Valkoun, market president for iHeartMedia Milwaukee and Jeff Tyler, area president for iHeartMedia Wisconsin.

The Economy, Biden in the Middle East, Midterms/2024 Presidential Race, Abortion Controversy, Twitter vs Musk, January 6 Hearings, Russia-Ukraine War, Uvalde Video Leaked, and Webb Telescope Images Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/12). The inflation causing high prices for gasoline & food, sinking tech stocks, and concerns about a recession; President Joe Biden embarks on a trip to the Middle East; the November midterm elections and speculation about who will be the nominees for president in 2024; the contentious battle over abortion rights in the wake of the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v Wade; the legal battle between Elon Musk and Twitter over his attempt to acquire the social media platform; the ongoing January 6 hearings; Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its impact on the global economy; a leak of the video from the Uvalde school massacre reveals police taking no action against the gunman; and the images from the James Webb Space Telescope were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

May 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

By Editor | June 17, 2022 by Editor

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

Nielsen Audio’s May 2022 sweep covered April 28 – May 25.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are April 2022 – May 2022 (6+).

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media-operated KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 4.7 – 5.1, +.4, eighth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” 1.6 – 1.3, -.3, #19 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas-owned KUT 6.5 – 6.2, -.3, repeats in third-place

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media-operated adult hits KBPA, fifth month in a row, 9.0 – 8.7, -.3

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase (Tie): classic rock KLBJ-FM and rhythmic CHR KPEZ (+.6)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: country KASE (-1.6)*

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

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 7.4 – 7.2, -.2, third to fourth

Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” 2.0 – 1.5, -.5, #14 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” 2.5 – 2.4, -.1, #12 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 8.0 – 7.6, -.4, second to third

Number One 6+ (Tie): Capitol Broadcasting adult contemporary WRAL, third successive month 9.0 – 7.8, -1.2 and Radio One urban AC WFXC, first month 7.4 – 7.8, +.4

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase (Tie): adult hits WBBB and country WNCB (+1.2)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: classic rock WRDU (-1.6)*

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

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Emmis’ WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 9.0 – 8.5, -.5, locked at #2

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Emmis-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” 2.6 – 2.8, +.2, steady at #12

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” .6 – .4, -.2, #19 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 5.3 – 4.8, -.5, continues in seventh-place

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK, fifth successive month, 12.8 – 11.8 -1.0

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase (Tie): CHR WZPL and triple A WTTS (+.7)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WYXB (-1.3)

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Brewers) 9.9 – 10.3, +.4, #1

iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 7.5 – 9.6, +2.1, fourth to second

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” 1.3 – 1.5, +.2, repeats at #15

iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” .7 – 1.0, +.3, #21 to #17

Audacy’s WSSP “1250 AM The Fan” .8 – 1.0, +.2, unchanged at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 5.3 – 5.1, -.2, flat at #7

Number One 6+: news/talk WTMJ, second month in succession, 9.9 – 10.3, +.4

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: news/talk WISN (+2.1)**

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: classic rock WKLH (-1.1)

**Represents the largest April 2022 – May 2022 increase (6+) of any station from all 48 PPM-markets

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 6.1 – 5.9, -.2, sixth to fourth

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 3.2 – 2.7, -.5, #12 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” 2.2 – 3.2, +1.0, #15 to #12

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” 1.2 – 1.6, +.4, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 6.4 – 5.6, -.8, fifth to seventh

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult hits WCJK, fifth month in a row, 9.4 – 8.9, -.5

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: country WKDF (+1.5)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: contemporary Christian WFFH (-1.2)

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 5.0 – 4.8, -.2, repeats in fifth-place

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” flat at .6, steady at #17

Cumulus Media’s WPRV “AM 790” .1 – .2, +.1, #21 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” flat at 4.4, seventh to eighth

Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” 4.1 – 3.5, -.6, eighth to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.1 – 2.7, -.4, anchored in tenth-place

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 2.0 – 2.1, +.1, #12 to #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia rock WHJY, fourth straight month, 11.5 – 11.7, +.2

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WWLI (+.8)

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

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 2.9 – 3.4, +.5, #11 to #10

News: iHeartMedia-owned WNOH “BIN 105.3 Because Truth Matters” flat at .4, repeats at #20

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.3 – 1.8, +.5, #18 to #15

Sinclair’s WTAR “Sports Radio 850” unchanged at .4, continues at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, fifth month in succession, 10.5 – 8.9, -1.6

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WWDE (+1.3)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: urban AC WVKL (-1.6)*

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

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 10.6 – 9.6 -1.0, first to second

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WOKV-AM “ESPN Jacksonville 690 AM” .7 – .9, +.2, remains at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 2.9 – 3.4, +.5, #11 to #10

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WJGL, first month, 9.7 – 9.8 +.1

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: country WGNE (+1.3)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease (Tie): news/talk WOKV-FM and CHR WAPE (-1.0)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 1.1 – 2.1 +1.0, #13 to #9 and cluster-mate WJNO “News Radio 1290” 2.2 – 19, -.3, #10 to #11

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” flat at 1.3, unchanged at #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” .5 – .8, +.3, #17 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 2.7 – 3.3, +.6, continues in seventh-place

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF, fifth month in succession, 9.8 – 10.0, +.2

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: urban AC WMBX (+1.2)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: country WIRK (-1.3)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 5.6 – 6.6, +1.0, carries on in fifth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD steady at 2.8, #12 to #11

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.1 – 1.0, -.1, repeats at #14

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WQMG, fifth month in a row, 12.6 – 13.0, +.4

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WMAG (+1.2)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease (Tie): adult hits WSMW and CHR WKZL (-.7)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.7 – 2.4, -.3, #12 to #14

Cumulus Media-owned WKIM “News/Talk 98.9, The Roar of Memphis” .5 – .7, +.2, repeats at #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” 3.2 – 3.7, +.5, tenth to ninth and WMFS’ internet stream .7 – .8, +.1, steady at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.8 – 1.5, -.3, unchanged at #16

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO, fifth successive month, 12.1 – 12.6, +.5

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: urban contemporary WHRK (+1.1)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: gospel WHAL (-1.0)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 4.5 – 4.8, +.3, continues in ninth-place and WTIC-AM’s internet stream flat at .8, #16 to #15

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” .8 -.6, -.2, #15 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 1.0 – .8, -.2, #14 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 7.8 – 7.9, +.1, third to second

New England Public Media’s WFCR .8 -.4, -.4, #16 to #20

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 27^th month in a row, 12.5 – 11.6, -.9

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Increase: urban AC WBOM (+.8)

Largest 6+ April 2022 – May 2022 Decrease: country WWYZ (-1.6)**

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

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

Front Page News Industry News

Friday, May 20, 2022

By Editor | May 20, 2022 by Editor

NOW POSTED: This Weekend’s Installment of “The Michael Harrison Wrap: An Overview of the National Conversation.” The latest installment of the one-hour weekend special, “The Michael Harrison Wrap,” that looks back each week at the hottest topics discussed in American talk media per the research of TALKERS, is now posted. This new episode titled, “Primary Directives,” looks back at this past week of 5/16-20. The program features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS; Mandy Connell, talk show host, KOA, Denver; Brett Winterble, talk show host, WBT, Charlotte; Victoria Jones, executive director, DC Radio Company; Dom Giordano, talk show host, WPHT, Philadelphia; and Matthew B. Harrison, VP/associate publisher, TALKERS/media attorney. The show airs weekends on WONK-FM, Washington, DC; WTIC, Hartford; KSCO, Santa Cruz, CA; KDFD, Denver; KFNX, Phoenix; KTLK-FM, St. Louis; WPG, Atlantic City, NJ; SuperTalk 99.7 WTN, Nashville; KMZQ, Las Vegas; WTPL, Manchester, NH; WEMJ, Laconia, NH; WTSN, Dover-Portsmouth, NH; WVLY, Wheeling, WV; WTRW-FM, Scranton/Wilkes Barre, PA; WVOX, Westchester, NY; KBDT, Dallas; WGDJ, Albany, NY; WJFN-FM, Richmond, VA; WZFG, Fargo; KTGO, Tioga, ND; KWAM, Memphis; K-NEWS, San Luis Obispo; WGMD, Rehoboth Beach, DE; WCHM, Clarkesville, GA; WPHM, Port Huron, MI; KSYL, Alexandria, LA; KTOE, Mankato, MN; WCED, DuBois, PA; K-NEWS 101.3, Owensboro, KY; WWTK, Sebring, FL; WSAR-AM/FM, Fall River, MA; WIZM-AM/FM, La Crosse, WI; WMVA, Martinsville, VA; KQEN, Roseburg, OR; the Virginia Talk Radio Network; CRN Digital Talk Radio Network; Podcast Radio UK and many more. To listen to this week’s episode, please click here. To view the latest TALKERS topic research, please click here. “The Michael Harrison Wrap” is now available in syndication via Talk Media Network to stations across America on a market exclusive basis. For affiliation information, please click here or call 616-884-8616.

Round Four of April PPMs Released. The fourth of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s April PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen’s April 2022 sweep covered March 31 – April 27. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In Raleigh, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WTKK-FM grows by seven-tenths for a 7.4 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) finish that pushes it up from #4 to the #3 rank, while Curtis Media Group’s crosstown news/talk WPTF tacks on one-tenth to finish with a 2.0 share and ranking #14. Emmis Communications’ news/talk WIBC-FM, Indianapolis loses half a share, finishing the survey with a 9.0 share and remains ranked #2. In Milwaukee, Bucks playoff hoops and Brewers baseball helps Good Karma Brands’ news/talk WTMJ leap from #3 to #1 after adding 1.7 shares for a 9.9 share finish. iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk WISN sheds eight-tenths to finish with a 7.5 share and falls from #2 to #4. Cumulus Media’s WWTN-FM, Nashville loses seven-tenths and its 6.1 share causes it to fall from #2 to #6. Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM, Jacksonville continues its hold on the #1 rank after tacking on one-tenth to wrap the survey with a 10.6 share. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets (as well as the previous three groups) here.

Triton Digital Releases April 2022 U.S. Podcast Report. The April 2022 edition of Triton Digital’s ranking of the top 100 U.S. Podcasts (the report also includes the Top 20 U.S. Networks) based on Average Weekly Downloads is released and NPR’s “NPR News Now” remains in the #1 spot. Some of the other podcasts affiliated with radio-centric companies that made the April chart include Cumulus Podcast Network’s “The Ben Shapiro Show” at #3 and its “The Dan Bongino Show” at #8. Salem Podcast Network’s “The Charlie Kirk Show” remains ranked at #12. Three more Cumulus Podcast Network shows finished in the top 25, including “The Mark Levin Podcast” at #18, “The Matt Walsh Show” at #23, and “The Michael Knowles Show” at #24. The chart is comprised of networks and programs that opt in for measurement. You can see the complete chart here.

Public News/Talk WYPR, Baltimore Partners with The Baltimore Banner. Baltimore public radio organization Your Public Radio and The Baltimore Banner – a multi-platform news organization established by The Venetoulis Institute for Local Journalism – are beginning a joint operating agreement that will allow the nonprofit organizations to work collaboratively to deliver quality journalism across the state. WYPR “Your Public Radio” has three signals in the region – WYPR, Baltimore; WYPF, Frederick; and WYPO, Ocean City, Maryland. The two organizations say they will “work together to cover stories, special reports and develop joint programming to serve the needs of communities throughout Baltimore and around the state. This includes content sharing across platforms accessible to Baltimore Banner subscribers and the Your Public Radio audience and members. One of the first collaborations will be to cover the upcoming local elections.” Your Public Radio president LaFontaine E. Oliver says, “We are looking forward to the possibilities of this unique model of nonprofit news as we work to preserve and strengthen local journalism here in greater Baltimore. This partnership between Your Public Radio and The Baltimore Banner is an important step to bolster our local newsrooms in Maryland – with trusted, community reporting at the core of the agreement between the two organizations.”

TALKERS News Notes. Leadership from Hope Media Group and WAY Media announce the official close of their merger into a single media organization headquartered in Houston has taken place. The new company says, “This merger combines the rich heritage of two like-minded organizations, who together engage an audience of more than 4 million individuals worldwide with positive multimedia content over radio and online mediums.” President Joe Paulo comments, “We’re thrilled to officially join forces with Way Media to expand our combined impact. This merger is much more than a business matter. Aligning our efforts is a positive shift within Christian media to create and share uplifting content that encourages and inspires audiences across the country. We could not be more excited for this next chapter as our media brands continue to be a beacon of Hope for all.”…..The Radio Television Digital News Association is revealing winners of the local Edward R. Murrow Regional Awards for the numerous regions in the U.S. and iHeartMedia San Diego’s “Newsradio 600” KOGO, San Diego is honored with the award for a Newscast. A broadcast made by KOGO reporter Phil Farrar was singled out for the honor. “KOGO News with Phil Farrar” will now compete with fellow regional winners for the national award. The national award winners will be announced this summer and presented at the Edward R. Murrow National Awards Gala on October 10, 2022…..SiriusXM announces the launch of an all-new, original podcast “Basic!,” hosted by media veteran Doug Herzog and TV critic Jen Chaney, which explores the groundbreaking programming and glory days of cable television. The first three episodes of “Basic!” are now available on all major podcast platforms. Episode #1 features guest Jimmy Kimmel chatting with Herzog and Chaney about his breakthrough on cable television with Comedy Central’s “Win Ben Stein’s Money” and “The Man Show.” Amy Schumer joins in for episode #2 where she talks about creating and starring in her sketch comedy cable show, “Inside Amy Schumer,” and Fab Five Freddy is the guest for episode #3 where he shares stories about the creation of MTV’s groundbreaking hip-hop show, “Yo! MTV Raps.”

Partisan Politics and Elections Top News/Talk Story for Week of May 16-20. The partisan politics surrounding the primary elections leading up to November’s midterms was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers Ten^TM. At #2 this week was the economy – including high gas & food prices, the selloff on Wall Street, and concerns about a recession, tied with the shortage of baby formula. At #3 this week was the Russia-Ukraine war and the related U.S. foreign affairs. The Talkers Ten^TM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

FOX News Media Seeks Freelance Radio Anchor. This is a New York or Washington, DC-based position. FOX News is looking for a freelance radio anchor to join the FOX News Audio family as on-air talent for FOX News Radio Network/FOX News Headlines 24/7 Sirius XM Channel 115. As the freelance radio anchor, you will work under tight deadlines and deliver top-notch newscasts. You have a passion for breaking news and the flexibility to work on a day’s notice. Find out more and apply here.

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

Podcast Producer Position Open at FOX News Media. FOX News Audio is looking for a producer for The Will Cain Podcast to be part of the fast-paced and growing FOX News Podcast Network. The producer for The Will Cain Podcast will develop ideas, pitch stories, and work with FOX News Channel talent in crafting daily and weekly podcasts. The producer will also direct bookings, edit shows, and work with production teams to create high-quality content every day. In addition to their production duties, they will also lead creative on social media posts and website write-ups to promote the product. This is a New York, Washington, or Nashville-based position. Find out more and apply here.

Ratings Takeaways

April 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

By Editor | May 20, 2022 by Editor

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

Nielsen Audio’s April 2022 sweep covered March 31 – April 27.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are March 2022 – April 2022 (6+).

Sports-Related Notes: The MLB season began April 7; NBA playoffs got underway May 1; and NHL playoffs started May 2.

AUSTIN

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

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” 1.7 – 1.6, -.1, #17 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas-owned KUT 6.8 – 6.5, -.3, second to third

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media-operated adult hits KBPA, fourth month in a row, 10.0 – 9.0, -1.0

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

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: classical KMFA (-1.4)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 6.7 – 7.4, +.7, fourth to third

Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” 1.9 – 2.0, +.1, #13 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) flat at 2.5, steady at #12

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 7.8 – 8.0, +.2, third to second

Number One 6+: Capitol Broadcasting adult contemporary WRAL, second successive month 8.4 – 9.0, +.6

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase (Tie): news/talk WTKK and CHR WDCG (+.7)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: country WQDR-FM (-.8)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Emmis’ WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 9.5 – 9.0, -.5, anchored in the runner-up slot

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Emmis-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” (Pacers) 3.3 – 2.6, -.7, #10 to #12

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” .9 – .6, -.3, remains at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 4.7 – 5.3, +.6, repeats in seventh-place

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK, fourth successive month, 12.4 – 12.8 +.4

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase (Tie): country WLHK and public radio news/talk WFYI (+.6)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: sports talk WIBC-HD2 (-.7)

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Brewers and Bucks) 8.2 – 9.9, +1.7, third to first

iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 8.3 – 7.5, -.8, second to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” 1.2 – 1.3, +.1, #16 to #15

Audacy’s WSSP “1250 AM The Fan” 1.0 – .8, -.2, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 5.9 – 5.3, -.6, fifth to seventh

Number One 6+: news/talk WTMJ, first month, 8.2 – 9.9, +1.7

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: news/talk WTMJ (+1.7)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: classic rock WKLH (-.9)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 6.8 – 6.1, -.7, second to sixth

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 3.1 – 3.2, +.1, repeats at #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” 2.8 – 2.2, -.6, #14 to #15

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) 1.0 – 1.2, +.2, stays at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 5.5 – 6.4, +.9, seventh to fifth

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult hits WCJK, fourth month in a row, 7.5 – 9.4, +1.9

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: adult hits WCJK (+1.9)*

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: CHR WNFN (-.9)

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

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 6.7 – 5.0, -1.7, fourth to fifth

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .8 – .6, -.2, continues at #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 3.7 – 4.4, +.7, ninth to seventh

Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Celtics, and Bruins) 3.9 – 4.1, +.2, locked in eighth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH flat at 3.1, carries on in tenth-place

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 2.3 – 2.0, -.3, #11 to #12

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia rock WHJY, third straight month, 11.3 – 11.5, +.2

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WNBH (+1.2)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: country WCTK (-2.2)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 2.5 – 2.9, +.4, #13 to #11

News: iHeartMedia-owned WNOH “BIN 105.3 Because Truth Matters” .3 – .4, +.1, #21 to #20

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.0 – 1.3, +.3, #19 to #18

Sinclair’s WTAR “Sports Radio 850” flat at .4, repeats at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, fourth month in succession, 10.4 – 10.5, +.1

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: country WUSH (+.6)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: hot AC WPTE (-.9)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 10.5 – 10.6 +.1, #1

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WOKV-AM “ESPN Jacksonville 690 AM” flat at .7, stays at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.7 – 2.9, -.8, repeats at #11

Number One 6+: news/talk WOKV-FM, fourth consecutive month, 10.5 – 10.6 +.1

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: urban AC WSOL (+1.3)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease (Tie): adult contemporary WEJZ and rock WWJK (-1.4)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WJNO “News Radio 1290” 2.3 – 2.2, -.1, ninth to tenth

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” steady at 1.3, #13 to #12

iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” unchanged at 1.1, #14 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” .4 – .5, +.1, #18 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 3.8 – 2.7, -1.1, sixth to seventh

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF, fourth month in succession, 9.6 – 9.8, +.2

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: country WIRK (+1.2)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WLRN (-1.1)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 5.1 – 5.6, +.5, anchored in fifth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 3.4 – 2.8, -.6, #10 to #12

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.5 – 1.1, -.4, stays at #14

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WQMG, fourth month in a row, 13.4 – 12.6, -.8

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: CHR WMKS (+.7)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: urban AC WQMG (-.8)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.5 – 2.7, +.2, #14 to #12

Cumulus Media-owned WKIM “News/Talk 98.9, The Roar of Memphis” .7 – .5, -.2, #20 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 3.4 – 3.2, -.2, continues in tenth-place and WMFS’ internet stream 1.0 – .7, -.3, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO flat at 1.8, steady at #16

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO, fourth successive month, 13.6 – 12.1, -1.5

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: urban AC KJMS (+1.6)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO (-1.5)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 5.1 – 4.5, -.6, repeats in ninth-place

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” 1.0 – .8, -.2, #15 to #16

The internet stream of Audacy’s WTIC-AM, .6 – .8, +.2, #18 to #16

iHeartMedia’s WPOP “News Radio 1410 AM & 100.9 FM” .2, #20 (unlisted in March 2022)

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” steady at 1.0, #15 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 10.1 – 7.8, -2.3, second to third

New England Public Media’s WFCR .4 -.8, +.4, #20 to #16

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 26^th month in a row, 10.9 – 12.5, +1.6

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WRCH (+1.6)

Largest 6+ March 2022 – April 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk WNPR (-2.3)**

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

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

Front Page News Industry News

Monday, April 25, 2022

By Editor | April 25, 2022 by Editor

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

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

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

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

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

Front Page News Industry News

Wednesday, April 13, 2022

By Editor | April 13, 2022 by Editor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Front Page News Industry News

Friday, March 25, 2022

By Editor | March 25, 2022 by Editor

NOW POSTED: This Weekend’s Installment of “The Michael Harrison Wrap: An Overview of the National Conversation.” The latest installment of the one-hour weekend special, “The Michael Harrison Wrap,” that looks back each week at the hottest topics discussed in American talk media per the research of TALKERS, is now posted. This new episode titled, “Midnight in Moscow,” looks back at this past week of 3/21 to 3/25. The program features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS; Jennifer Horn, talk show host, KRLA (AM 860 The Answer), Los Angeles; Martha Zoller, talk show host, WDUN, Gainesville, GA; Victoria Jones, executive director, DC Radio Company; and Ivan Pentchoukov, national editor, The Epoch Times. The show airs weekends on WONK-FM, Washington, DC; WTIC, Hartford; KSCO, Santa Cruz, CA; KDFD, Denver; KFNX, Phoenix; KTLK-FM, St. Louis; WPG, Atlantic City, NJ; SuperTalk 99.7 WTN, Nashville; KMZQ, Las Vegas; WTPL, Manchester, NH; WEMJ, Laconia, NH; WTSN, Dover-Portsmouth, NH; WVLY, Wheeling, WV; WTRW-FM, Scranton/Wilkes Barre, PA; WVOX, Westchester, NY; KBDT, Dallas; KQSP, Minneapolis; WGDJ, Albany, NY; WJFN-FM, Richmond, VA; WZFG, Fargo; KTGO, Tioga, ND; KWAM, Memphis; K-NEWS, San Luis Obispo; WGMD, Rehoboth Beach, DE; WCHM, Clarkesville, GA; WPHM, Port Huron, MI; KSYL, Alexandria, LA; KTOE, Mankato, MN; WCED, DuBois, PA; K-NEWS 101.3, Owensboro, KY; WWTK, Sebring, FL; WSAR-AM/FM, Fall River, MA; WIZM-AM/FM, La Crosse, WI; WMVA, Martinsville, VA; KQEN, Roseburg, OR; the Virginia Talk Radio Network; CRN Digital Talk Radio Network; Podcast Radio UK and many more. To listen to this week’s episode, please click here. To view the latest TALKERS topic research, please click here. “The Michael Harrison Wrap” is now available in syndication via Talk Media Network to stations across America on a market exclusive basis. For affiliation information, please click here or call 616-884-8616.

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

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

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

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

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

Russia-Ukraine War Top News/Talk Story for Week of March 21-25. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the global effects of the conflict made it the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers Ten^TM. At #2 this week was President Joe Biden’s leading a NATO summit addressing the Ukraine invasion, followed at #3 by U.S. relations with Russia and China and tied with North Korea’s intercontinental ballistic missile test. The Talkers Ten^TM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

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

Ratings Takeaways

February 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

By Editor | March 25, 2022 by Editor

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

Nielsen Audio’s February 2022 sweep covered February 3 – March 2

Managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are January 2022 – February 2022 (6+).

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media-operated KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 4.4 – 4.7, +.3, eighth to ninth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” 2.0 – 2.2, +.2, repeats at #15

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

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media-operated adult hits KBPA, second month in a row, flat at 8.7

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: country KASE (+1.3)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease (Tie): regional Mexican KLZT and classic rock KLBJ-FM (-1.1)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 7.4 – 7.6, +.2, remains in third-place

Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” 3.3 – 2.0, -1.3, #11 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 2.7 – 1.8, -.9, #13 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 9.6 – 8.5, -1.1, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WUNC, second consecutive month, 9.6 – 8.5, -1.1

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult hits WBBB (+1.7)

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

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Emmis’ WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 10.6 – 9.7, -.9, repeats at #2

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Emmis-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” (Pacers) 4.6 – 3.9, -.7, eighth to tenth

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” steady at .9, anchored at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 5.7 – 5.9, +.2, fifth to sixth

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK, second successive month, 11.2 – 12.1 +.9

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WYXB (+1.4)

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

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 9.7 – 9.5, -.2, first to second

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Bucks) 7.2 – 7.6, +.4, repeats in fourth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” 1.8 – 1.6, -.2, flat at #15

Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” 1.8 – 1.5, -.3, #15 to #16

Audacy’s WSSP “1250 AM The Fan” 1.2 – .8, -.4, #18 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 4.8 – 5.6, +.8, ninth to sixth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WRIT, first month, 9.3 – 10.2, +.9

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic rock WKLH (+1.3)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: country WMIL (-1.8)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 6.9 – 7.2, +.3, second to third

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 2.6 – 3.3, +.7, #13 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” 4.7 – 2.4, -2.3, #9 to #14

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) 1.1 – .7, -.4, #19 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 6.6 – 6.0, -.6, fourth to sixth

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult hits WCJK, second month in a row, 7.2 – 8.2, +1.0

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase (Tie): adult hits WCJK and country WSM-FM (+1.0)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: sports talk WGFX (-2.3)

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 7.0 – 6.9, -.1, third to fourth

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .7 – .8, +.1, #16 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Celtics, and Bruins) 4.4 – 3.7, -.7, sixth to eighth

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 4.2 – 3.6, -.6, seventh to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 2.8 – 2.9, +.1, locked at #10

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 2.8 – 2.3, -.5, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia rock WHJY, first month, 10.4 – 11.1, +.7

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WWLI (+1.0)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease (Tie): country WCTK and sports talk WBZ-FM (-.7)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” flat at 2.3, #13 to #14

News: iHeartMedia-owned WNOH “BIN 105.3 Because Truth Matters” .5 – .3, -.2, #21 to #20

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.5 – 1.1, -.4, #17 to #18

Sinclair’s WTAR “Sports Radio 850” .6 – .3, -.3, repeats at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

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

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: rhythmic CHR WNVZ (+1.0)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WVBW (-1.2)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 9.6 – 10.2 +.6, #1

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WOKV-AM “ESPN Jacksonville 690 AM” .9 – 1.2, +.3, #18 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.4 – 3.7, +.3, #12 to #10

Number One 6+: news/talk WOKV-FM, second consecutive month, 9.6 – 10.2 +.6

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WEZI (+1.6)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: country WQIK (-1.3)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WJNO “News Radio 1290” 2.9 – 2.3, -.6, eighth to ninth

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” flat at 1.7, unchanged at #11

iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 1.7 – 1.3, -.4, #11 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” steady at .6, repeats at #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN flat at 3.2, stays in seventh-place

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF, second month in succession, 9.1 – 9.6, +.5

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WEAT (+1.5)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: classic rock WKGR (-2.4)*

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

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 6.5 – 5.7, -.8, remains in fifth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Curtis Media Group-owned WSJS & WPCM 600 AM & 920 AM” .6 – .5, -.1, stays at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 4.0 – 3.6, -.4, eighth to ninth

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.8 – 1.6, -.2, repeats at #14

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WQMG, second straight month, 14.2 – 13.4, -.8

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

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease (Tie): urban AC WQMG; news/talk WPTI; and country WTQR (-.8)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.6 – 3.0, +.4, #12 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 4.7 – 3.5, -1.2, eighth to tenth and WMFS’ internet stream flat at .7, anchored at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications’ WKNO 2.6 – 1.3, -1.3, #12 to #17

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO, second successive month, 14.1 – 12.4, -1.7

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase: urban AC KJMS (+1.8)**

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO (-1.7)

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

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” steady at 5.3, unchanged at #7 and WTIC-AM’s internet stream .5 – 1.5, +1.0, #16 to #13

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut”.9 – 1.1, +.2, #15 to #14

iHeartMedia’s WPOP “News Radio 1410 AM & 100.9 FM” .2, #20 (WPOP was unlisted in January 2022)

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 1.2 – 1.1, -.1, remains at #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 8.6 – 9.6, +1.0, continues in second-place

New England Public Media’s WFCR .5 – .4, -.1, #16 to #19

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 24^th successive month, 11.6 – 10.9, -.7

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Increase (Tie): public radio news/talk WNPR and news/talk WTIC-AM’s internet stream (+1.0)

Largest 6+ January 2022 – February 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WHCN (-2.0)

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Front Page News Industry News

Monday, February 28, 2022

By Editor | February 28, 2022 by Editor

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

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

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

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

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

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

Front Page News Industry News

Wednesday, February 16, 2022

By Editor | February 16, 2022 by Editor

MIW Reveals Gender Analysis Study Results. The Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio organization reveals the results of the 22^nd MIW Gender Analysis Study that tracks the progress of female professionals holding general manager, sales manager, and program director/brand manager titles. MIW says the study reflects data from the calendar year 2021 and was accounted for by PrecisionTrak. In the general manager category, women hold the position at 20.79% of U.S. radio stations. This is an increase of almost a full percentage point from 2020, which was 19.9%. Notably, this number continues to show consistent growth from 2004, when the percentage of female general managers was only 14.9%. Looking at sales managers, 33.59% of stations had a woman in the position last year. MIW says the management position that poses the greatest challenge for women is program director/brand manager. Only 12.09% of U.S. stations had women in the position in 2021, versus 12.2% in 2020. MIW board president Ruth Presslaff says, “If the glass is half full we should celebrate any upward movement, even if it’s incremental, as jobs continue to be eliminated in the continuing pandemic. However, it’s disappointing that the glass isn’t filling faster for those in programming and MIW is paying close attention to this issue. We encourage you to register at radiomiw.com to learn about our multiple opportunities for mentoring and career development!”

iHeartMedia to Celebrate WOR, New York’s 100^th Anniversary. WOR-AM, New York owner iHeartMedia is preparing to celebrate the news/talk station’s 100^th anniversary of its first broadcast on February 22, 1922. Next Tuesday (2/22), “Len Berman and Michael Riedel in the Morning” will kick off the tribute by interviewing on-air hosts from WOR’s history to share memories of their time at the station. WOR will also air audio of historic moments and invite listeners to call in with their favorite WOR recollections. On February 23, the Empire State Building will light up in the colors of the station’s logo beginning at 5:40 pm. WOR program director Tom Cuddy says, “A station broadcasting for over a century is truly incredible. 710 WOR has a strong connection with the communities we serve, and as the media landscape continues to evolve, it’s exciting to see our reach has continued to grow as WOR listeners adopt streaming on smart devices and the iHeartRadio app.” WOR was initially launched to sell radios and other merchandise at Bamberger’s department store in Newark, New Jersey.

Talk Host Mark Kaye Announces 15-Year-Old Sickle Cell Patient as New Voice of the Program. WOKV-FM, Jacksonville-based, syndicated radio talk show host Mark Kaye (left) names 15-year-old Quincy Chapman (right) the new voice of “The Mark Kaye Show.” Kaye met Chapman during his “Kaye’s Kids” charity event called “The 12 Days of Christmas.” Kaye says, “Every Christmas we surprise local children who are battling life-threatening illnesses with dream gifts. This past December, Quincy was one of those kids.” Chapman suffers from the painful Sickle Cell Disease that’s required several blood transfusions, spleen removal, and a recent hip transplant. “Quincy lives in constant pain,” says Kaye. “But you would never know it if you met him. He has an incredible personality, an amazing smile, and as soon as he spoke on the air we were blown away by the power of his voice. He sounds incredible!” After being at the station, Chapman posted a message on Instagram describing how much fun he had on the show and how he was “hooked” on radio. Kaye saw the post and came up with the idea of bringing him back into the studio to record elements for his show. Kaye says, “As soon as he walked in the studio you could tell by the look on his face how happy it made him. We asked him to record some liners and promos for us. Dude was a natural.”

Alpha Media’s Chris Schmidt Named NSMA’s Nebraska Sportscaster of the Year. Lincoln, Nebraska radio personality Chris Schmidt is named the National Sports Media Association’s 2021 Nebraska Sportscaster of the Year. Schmidt serves with Alpha Media’s news/talk KFOR-AM and sports talk KLMS-AM as play-by-play announcer, host of the “Hail Varsity” program, and cast member of the “KFOR Morning Show.” Alpha Media Lincoln market manager Katie Philipi says, “Chris is an exceptional broadcaster and his passion cannot be rivaled. He is so deserving of this award. The entire Alpha Lincoln family celebrates his achievement.” Schmidt comments, “I’m humbled and honored by this award. Thank you to the many folks I have worked with over the years and get to work with today. I have fun going to ‘work’ every day, talking about news and sports.”

Edison Research to Host Black Podcast Listener Report Networking Event. On February 28, Edison Research is hosting an online “networking” event to further the discussion of the results of the Black Podcast Listener Report it, SXM Media, and Mindshare released in October of 2021. Edison says the virtual event will give podcasters and other interested parties a chance to network and discuss various relevant podcast topics, such as key findings from the Black Podcast Listener Report, feedback for the next report, and other topics helpful to creators in the space. The study participants consisted of over 2,500 Black Americans age 18+. It concluded that 36% of Black Americans now listen to podcasts monthly. Black listeners are closing the gap with the general market. In 2020, 17% of Black Americans were listening to podcasts weekly, compared with 24% of all Americans. Just a year later, the number of weekly Black listeners jumped to 26% (while the general market grew slightly to 28%). Also, 42% of Black monthly podcast listeners say they’ve been streaming shows for one year or less. You can read the report here and you can register for the networking event here.

Ukraine Tensions, COVID-19, Durham Probe, S.F. School Board Recall, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, Palin-NYTimes Case, Alec Baldwin Suit, and Beijing Winter Olympics Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (2/15). The threat of war over Russia’s military buildup at the Ukraine border; the rate of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., the planned relaxing of mask mandates in numerous states, and the truckers’ protests; special counsel John Durham’s investigation into allegations of Hillary Clinton’s digital spying on Donald Trump; the successful recall of three liberal San Francisco School Board members; the battle for control of Congress in November’s midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; a judge tosses Sarah Palin’s defamation suit against The New York Times; Alec Baldwin is sued in connection with the shooting death on the Rust set; and the politics behind the Beijing Winter Olympics were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Ratings Takeaways

December 2021 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

By Editor | January 3, 2022 by Editor

December 2021 PPM Data – Information for the December 2021 survey period has been released for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.

Nielsen Audio’s December 2021 sweep covered November 11 – December 8.

Managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are November 2021 – December 2021 (6+).

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media-operated KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 5.0 – 5.3, +.3, fifth to sixth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio’s KTXX “The Horn” 2.0 – 2.4, +.4, #16 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas-owned KUT 6.9 – 6.8, -.1, repeats in third-place

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media-operated adult hits KBPA, tenth consecutive month, 8.0 – 8.7, +.7

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary KKMJ (+1.4)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: country KVET-FM (-1.3)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 7.3 – 7.0, -.3, fourth to third

Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” steady at 2.9, repeats at #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 2.6 – 2.5, -.1, flat at #14

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 8.1 – 8.5, +.4, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WUNC, fourteenth consecutive month, 8.1 – 8.5, +.4

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: alternative WDCG-HD2 (+1.3)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: urban AC WFXC (-.7)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Emmis’ WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 7.8 – 8.1, +.3, second to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Emmis-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” (Colts and Pacers) 7.5 – 4.2, -.3.3, third to seventh

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” .6 – .9, +.3, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting’s WFYI 7.1 – 6.8, -.3, sixth to fifth

Number One 6+: Emmis adult contemporary WYXB, first month, 7.2 – 10.7 +3.5

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WYXB (+3.5)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: sports talk WIBC-HD2 (-3.3)*

*Represents the largest November 2021 – December 2021 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” unchanged at 10.3, #1

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Green Bay Packers and Bucks) 7.6 – 7.1, -.5, second to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, #15 to #16

Audacy-owned WSSP “1250 AM The Fan” 1.3 – 1.0, -.3, #16 to #17

Good Karma Brands’ WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” .9 – .7, -.2, #17 to #19

iHeartMedia-owned WOKY “The Big 920” flat at .6, stays at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 4.2 – 4.1, -.1, locked in tenth-place

Wisconsin Educational Communications Board’s WHAD .7 – .6, -.1, #19 to #20

Number One 6+: news/talk WISN, second month in a row, steady at 10.3

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase:; urban contemporary WXSS-HD2 (+1.6)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: rock WHQG (-.7)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 5.9 – 5.3, -.6, fifth to eighth

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 2.5 – 2.0, -.5, #14 to #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” (Tennessee Titans) 5.5 – 5.2, -.3, tenth to ninth

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) 1.2 – 1.0, -.2, remains at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 5.7 – 5.8, +.1, eighth to fifth

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA, first month, 5.8 – 8.6, +2.8

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WJXA (+2.8)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: classic rock WNRQ (-2.2)

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 5.2 – 5.8, +.6, anchored at #5

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .8 – 1.1, +.3, #19 to #15

News – Talk: iHeartMedia’s WBZ-AM “1030 News Radio” 1.5 – 1.3, -.2, #12 to #14

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (New England Patriots, Celtics, and Bruins) unchanged at 4.0, ninth to seventh

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 4.4 – 3.6, -.8, seventh to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: Rhode Island Public Radio-owned WNPN 3.0 – 2.4, -.6, repeats in tenth-place

WGBH Educational Foundation’s WGBH 2.4 – 2.3, -.1, continues at #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia rock WHJY, fifth straight month, 11.3 – 10.5, -.8

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WWLI (+2.4)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: CHR WPRO-FM (-1.2)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 2.8 – 2.1, -.7, #12 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.1 – 1.2, +.1, repeats at #19

Sinclair-owned WTAR “Sports Radio 850” .5 – .4, -.1, flat at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, 38^th consecutive month, 11.0 – 10.2, -.8

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: rhythmic hot AC WMOV (+3.8)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: adult hits WNOB (-1.6)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 8.0 – 8.7, +.7, repeats in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WOKV-AM “ESPN Jacksonville 690 AM” flat at .4, remains at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.0 – 3.3, +.3, #12 to #10

Number One 6+: Renda Broadcasting adult contemporary WEJZ, first month, 8.7 – 10.8, +2.1

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WEJZ (+2.1)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease (Tie): CHR WAPE and contemporary Christian WCRJ (-1.1)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 2.4 – 1.8, -.6, #12 to #15

iHeartMedia’s WJNO “News Radio 1290” (also) 2.4 – 1.8, -.6, #12 to #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board-owned WLRN 2.7 – 3.0, +.3, ninth to seventh

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting classic hits-oldies WEAT, first month, 6.7 – 9.4, +2.7

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: classic hits-oldies WEAT (+2.7)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: adult contemporary WOLL (-2.3)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 4.6 – 4.1, -.5, locked in seventh-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Curtis Media Group-owned WSJS & WPCM 600 AM & 920 AM” unchanged at .4, #16 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 3.7 – 4.1, +.4, ninth to seventh

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.5 – 1.9, +.4, anchored at #13

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WQMG, seventh month in a row, 12.1 – 13.0, +.9

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WMAG (+4.1)**

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: adult hits WSMW and classic rock WKRR (-1.1)

**Represents a tie for the largest November 2021 – December 2021 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 3.8 – 3.2, -.6, anchored in tenth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: (Three) Audacy cluster-mates WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 4.2 – 4.4, +.2, eighth to seventh; WMFS’ internet stream flat at .5, #17 to #18; and WMC-AM “ESPN 790 AM” steady at .2, continues at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications’ WKNO 2.6 – 2.3, -.3, #12 to #13

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS, tenth consecutive month, 12.0 – 11.3, -.7

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WRVR (+3.6)

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease: hot AC WMC-FM (-1.0)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 5.7 – 5.2, -.5, continues in seventh-place

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” .8 – .9, +.1, #14 to #15

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WUCS “97.9 ESPN” .8 – .9, +.1, #14 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications’ WNPR 7.0 – 7.1, +.1, locked in third-place

New England Public Media’s WFCR unchanged at .4, #16 to #17

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 21^st successive month, 10.8 – 14.9, +4.1

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Increase: adult contemporary WRCH (+4.1)**

Largest 6+ November 2021 – December 2021 Decrease (Tie): classic rock WDRC-FM and alternative WMRQ (-.8)

**Represents a tie for the largest November 2021 – December 2021 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

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

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