Mike Stern Joins Zimmer for Director of Programming Post
Programming pro Mike Stern is leaving his position with Jacobs Media to join Zimmer Communications as director of programming for the company’s Missouri stations in Columbia, Springfield and Jefferson City. He says, “I couldn’t be more 
excited about the opportunity to join Zimmer Communications. I’ve consulted them for more than a decade, so I know it is a first-class radio operation that still believes in being local and connecting with listeners. I’d like to thank [general manager] Carla Leible and [operations director] Trevor Morgan for making this possible.” Morgan comments, “Mike has a genuine passion for creating great radio. His creativity, organization, and keen ear for compelling content have already made a tremendous impact on the stations he’s worked with through Jacobs Media. We’re excited to bring his expertise and experience to all our brands as we continue to create great content and find meaningful ways to connect with our listeners and advertisers.”
Zimmer argues in its filing that relief from the ownership cap would not adversely affect competition in the Springfield, Missouri market and notes that if approved, its revenue share in the market would be 33.6% (up from its current 8.5%), while SummitMedia’s revenue share is currently 34.8%. Zimmer goes on to add that in terms of audience share, Zimmer would have 21.3% of the market’s audience compared to iHeartMedia’s 22.3%. Additionally, Zimmer points out that, if approved, 18 different owners would control stations in the Springfield market.
Zimmer will take over the operation of sports talk KOSP-FM “102.1 The Won” and three music brands. It currently owns news/talk KWTO/K227KO and sports talk KBFL-AM/K245CA. Zimmer Communications president John Zimmer says,
“This is an exciting opportunity to bring together two organizations that share the same values and a deep commitment to local broadcasting. By combining our strengths, we’ll be able to offer advertisers even more effective marketing solutions while continuing to provide the trusted local content our audiences rely on.” Mid-West Family president Mike Paterson adds, “As the local radio and media landscape continues to evolve, bringing these two organizations together creates even greater opportunities for our advertising partners, our communities and especially our employees.” 
