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Tag: "Norm Pattiz"
Monday, June 24, 2019
Big Changes at KNBR, San Francisco as Gary Radnich and Bob Fitzgerald Exit. Sports talk fans in the Bay Area are shocked by the unexpected tweet from KNBR, San Francisco personality Gary Radnich in which the 27-year station host announced he's retiring immediately. He wrote, "Plan was to retire at the end of the year but with my 70th birthday ahead it makes sense now. Thank you audience for 36 years of TV-Radio!" Radnich has been partnered with Larry Krueger in middays. There's considerable scuttlebutt in the Bay Area as to whether the sudden retirement was really Radnich being forced out by station owner Cumulus Media. The announcement comes on the heels of a report in The Athletic that Bay Area sports personality Greg Papa is exiting Entercom's crosstown KGMZ-FM "95.7 The Game" for an on-air position with KNBR (he'd also handle radio play-by-play for 49ers games). For what it's worth, The Athletic writes that Radnich was "let go." Shortly after the Radnich news hit, we learned that KNBR also is parting ways with Bob Fitzgerald, who co-hosted the "Fitz and Brooks" show with Rod Brooks. It appears Brooks will continue hosting the show solo.
Drew Horowitz to Retire from Hubbard Radio. At the end of 2019, radio executive Drew Horowitz will retire from his president and COO position with Hubbard Radio. Horowitz has been with the company since it acquired Chicago stations (and clusters in three other markets) from Bonneville in 2011. Chicago media maven Robert Feder broke the news today. Horowitz says he'll take some time off after December "and explore other opportunities, including serving on corporate boards, teaching, and taking classes." Horowitz began his sales career with WFYR-FM, Chicago in 1976. During his career he served as chief of Lakeshore Communications, GSM at WCLR (now WTMX) including 19 years with Bonneville. In a memo to Hubbard staffers, chair and CEO Ginny Morris says, "Drew came to Hubbard Radio as a part of our transformational acquisition of four Bonneville markets in 2011. Since that time, Drew has been instrumental in helping us further grow the company as we added clusters in Phoenix and Seattle, bolstered our cluster in St. Louis and most recently, acquired our operations in West Palm Beach."
Monday Memo: Retire 'Trivia.' In this week's edition of the Monday Memo, consultant Holland Cooke recommends that you DO call-in questions that ask listeners to think, but that you DON'T call it "Trivia," for four reasons. See what those reasons are here.
TALKERS News Notes. Veteran Philadelphia and New Jersey broadcaster Gary R'nel, guest-hosted last night (6/23) for Walter M. Sterling on the Westwood One syndicated "Sterling on Sunday" show…..Also from Philadelphia, several reports out of that city indicate that the KYW-AM air staff represented by SAG-AFTRA and Entercom have agreed to terms on a new contract for the on-air employees at the all-news station. The KYW staffers had been working without a contract for the past eight months…..Chicago media writer Robert Feder reminds us that Windy City radio legend Garry Meier, who is currently producing his own podcast, is sitting in on Cumulus Media's WLS-AM all this week for morning drive personality Mancow Muller…..The most recent episode of the "Opie Radio" podcast from Gregg "Opie" Hughes is titled "R.I.P" in which Hughes says his deal with Westwood One for the podcast is ending. He says he intends to keep producing the podcast…..Westwood One News manager John Stolnis is pictured at right accepting the Society of Professional Journalists' Sigma Delta Chi Award won by the news staff for breaking news coverage of last year's Parkland Florida School shooting. The awards dinner was held Friday night at the National Press Club in Washington, DC…..Entercom's WSCR, Chicago "The Score" announces the inaugural "McNeil and Parkins Charity Golf Outing" (named for afternoon drive duo Dan McNeil and Danny Parkins) taking place on August 5 at Seven Bridges Golf Club in Woodridge, Illinois to benefit Turning Pointe Autism Foundation. Entercom Chicago SVP and market manager Jimmy de Castro says, "We're very excited to launch the inaugural 'McNeil and Parkins Charity Golf Outing' and to raise money for a fantastic organization like Turning Pointe. It should be a great day of golfing with 'The Score' talent and local sports celebrities."…..Podcast producer Cadence13 launches the new program "Hacks on Tap," a weekly podcast hosted by longtime campaign strategists and friends David Axelrod, chief strategist for Barack Obama's presidential campaigns, and Mike Murphy, a veteran political consultant for Senator John McCain's presidential campaign and many others. The two take listeners behind the scenes of top-level American politics and campaigns, offering their insider perspectives and analyses on the state of American politics in the lead up to the 2020 presidential election.
PPM Analysis: Public News/Talk Radio. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio's May 2019 PPM survey, today focusing on public radio news/talk. Big gainers from April to May are KNPR, Las Vegas (+1.2); KXJZ, Sacramento; KCUR, Kansas City; and WPLN, Nashville – all up 1.0 share. Both KNPR and KCUR realized big year-over-year weekly 6+ AQH share increased with KNPR rising 3.8 shares and KCUR going up 2.2 shares. Just three public radio news/talk stations ranked #1 in their markets in May: KUOW, Seattle; KPBS, San Diego; and KCFR, Denver. See the whole report here.
The Harry Hurley Charity Juggernaut Keeps Rolling. WPG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley's "Hurley in the Morning" 12th Annual Charity Golf Open held this past Friday (6/21) at the Harbor Pines Golf Club was a huge success. The event, in conjunction with Hurley's 11th Annual Charity Dinner at Resorts Casino Hotel (with Fox News personality Todd Starnes) held earlier this year, has raised a record $100,000 thus far in 2019 and has surpassed $900,000 over the past 12 years. Hurley, a former TALKERS "Humanitarian of the Year" recipient recently named the New Jersey Broadcasters Association "Broadcaster of the Year" for 2019, distributes the funds raised by his charity to worthy causes throughout New Jersey, the Northeast and across the nation.
Partying with Howie Carr. The two photos here are from the annual Summer Kick-off Party for affiliates, sponsors and industry friends of "The Howie Carr Show." Howie and Kathy Carr held their annual get-together at their Boston-area home this past Friday evening (6/21). Above are Howie Carr (left) and TALKERS founder Michael Harrison (right). Below are (from l-r): Yappy Days author, Bernadette Duncan; "Howie Carr Show" producer and on-air personality Grace Curley; and WBSM, New Bedford, morning host Phil Paleologos.
Steve Austin's New Podcast Tops 1 Million Downloads. Returning from a six-month hiatus, Steve Austin's latest podcast episode on PodcastOne gets more than 1 million downloads. PodcastOne founder and executive chairman Norm Pattiz says, "Since January, we've been running Steve's classic podcasts from the last five years. There is no substitute for original content from the 'global icon and national treasure,' Steve Austin. He hits the ground running and is reaching his biggest audience ever. Welcome home, Steve."
Three Named to Broadcasters Foundation of America Board of Directors. The Broadcasters Foundation of America announces it has elected John David, senior advisor to the National Association of Broadcasters; Jinny Laderer, co-founder and CEO of vCreative; and Deborah Roberts, award-winning ABC News correspondent for "20/20," "Nightline," "Good Morning America," and "ABC World News Tonight with David Muir," to its board of directors. BFoA chairman Dan Mason says, "John, Jinny, and Deborah are industry leaders who have exemplified the Foundation's philosophy of 'giving back' through their tireless efforts to advance broadcasting and to support our charitable mission of helping colleagues in need. It is with great pleasure that I welcome these highly respected professionals to our board of directors."
Trump Calls Off Iran Strike, 2020 Presidential Race/Dem Primary Debates, Mayor Pete Town Hall, Immigration Policy/Deportation Ramp-Up, and Boris Johnson PM Bid Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The downing of a U.S. Air Force drone by Iran and President Trump's calling off a retaliatory strike; the 2020 presidential race and this week's TV debates between 20 of the Democratic candidates; presidential candidate and South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg faces angry constituents over the police killing of a black man; the Trump Administration's illegal immigration policy and the delay of a deportation program; and the call for British prime minister candidate Boris Johnson to explain a domestic incident in which police were called to his home were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. New York City hot AC WKTU has a new program director as Chris Conley – who also programs sister adult contemporary WLTW "106.7 LITE FM" – assumes the responsibilities. Conley is also brand manager for AC for iHeartMedia…..In Los Angeles, Taxi License Corporation names Jamillah Muhammad operations manager for urban contemporary KJLH-FM. She was most recently vice president for the marketing and management firm The Lewis-Kortez Group. She says, "I am extremely excited to join the KJLH family as the new operations manager. With my passion for radio, serving the community, and improving brands, I know we can lead this heritage station to success."…..On-air pro Carmine Gialanella moves up from his evening show shift at iHeartMedia's CHR WLDI, West Palm Beach "WiLD 95.5" to afternoon drive. Market SVP of programming Rad Messick says, "Carmine's the ultimate team player for 'WiLD 95.5.' His enthusiasm and commitment is second to none. It's a thrill to reward his performance with this well-deserved new afternoon opportunity."…..Albany Broadcasting names Jeff Weber market manager for its six music-formatted stations in the Albany market. Weber joins the company from Charleston, South Carolina where he was general sales manager for a two-FM combo. Company COO Steve Borneman says, "Jeff has tremendous experience in radio and he has a local connection to Albany which makes him the perfect choice. We're thrilled to have him…..Cumulus Media is spending $250,000 in technology to boost the signal strength of Worcester market hot AC WXLO-FM (licensed to Fitchburg, Massachusetts) to reach into the adjacent Boston market. Cumulus says, "Thanks to MaxxCasting, WXLO has the ability to bring its programming to as many as one million more listeners in the Boston area." Cumulus RVP Bob Goodell adds, "We're excited that the 450,000-plus listeners who tune into '104.5 XLO' on a weekly basis, many of whom commute in and out of the City of Boston, will now be able to hear the radio station on their entire commute. MaxxCasting has also given us the opportunity to reach new listeners who live in the greater Boston area, giving us the opportunity to expand our footprint."
Thursday, February 7, 2019
Midwest Communications Paying $21.6 Million for Peoria Stations. When broker KALIL & Co. announced the deal between Alpha Media and Midwest Communications on Tuesday, it did not include the price. Now that the contract is showing up in the FCC database, we know that Midwest will pay Alpha $21.6 million for the six-station cluster in the Peoria market that includes: news/talk WMBD-AM, hot AC WSWT-FM, country WXCL-FM, classic hits WPBG-FM, classic hip hop WNGY-FM and oldies WIRL-AM.
Media Exec Peter I. Morris Named CEO of PodcastOne. Media and business executive Peter I. Morris joins PodcastOne as chief executive officer in a new role in which he'll manage all day-to-day operations while exploring growth opportunities, strategic partnerships, and new content initiatives. He joins the management team led by executive chairman Norm Pattiz and president Kit Gray. Morris comes to PodcastOne with 10-plus years of experience in senior management, business development, and business affairs across film, television, and digital media. He was most recently EVP of Barstool Sports. He's also served as EVP of entertainment at IMAX, and head of business affairs & strategy and general counsel at Funny or Die. Morris says, "Personally, I'm a huge fan of podcasts and a strong believer in the power of the fan communities this medium champions. The opportunity to work with a legend like Norm Pattiz at PodcastOne, a market leader, is one I couldn't pass up. I look forward to leading PodcastOne's evolution and next chapter of growth."
Entercom's Radio.com Strikes Deals with CNN and Bloomberg. This content sharing deal between Entercom and CNN and Blomberg Media provides for Entercom's RADIO.com platform to air 10 live simulcasts of CNN and Bloomberg programs, in addition to making podcasts from Turner Podcast Network available on the platform. Simulcast content will include: CNN International, CNN en Español, and HLN from CNN and Bloomberg Radio National as well as New York, D.C., Boston, Bay Area, and London editions. Entercom chief digital officer JD Crowley says, "We are thrilled to welcome CNN and Bloomberg to RADIO.COM as we increase our premium content offerings. Through our deep roster of industry-leading radio stations and premium live and on-demand content, RADIO.COM is quickly becoming an important part of the daily audio habit for the tens of millions of listeners we reach per month. These agreements further cement RADIO.COM's position as the premiere destination for on-demand audio news, entertainment, music and sports content on a national scale."
ABC News to Launch 'The Investigation' Podcast. Beginning next Tuesday (2/12), ABC News is tackling the special counsel's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election in podcast form. The new podcast, "The Investigation," is hosted by ABC News correspondent Kyra Phillips and the ABC News investigative team, led by senior executive producer Chris Vlasto. ABC says it will provide a weekly, behind-the-scenes look at Robert Mueller's investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and will focus on the lead-up to the highly anticipated report and explore its aftermath, analyzing the potential fallout and political consequences. ABC Radio vice president and general manager Steve Jones comments, "We've provided extensive coverage of the Mueller probe on our daily podcast 'Start Here,' but there's so much more that Kyra Phillips and our investigative team can provide, that launching a dedicated podcast made spectacular sense. 'The Investigation' will break news, offer context, and make our growing ABC Radio podcast network even more attractive for advertisers hoping to reach an informed and engaged audience."
TALKERS News Notes. Last Saturday evening, Hubbard Radio's Washington, DC all-news WTOP-FM officially moved from its Idaho Ave studios in Northwest DC to its new studios on Wisconsin Ave in Chevy Chase, Maryland. Check out the video of the station making the flip from the old studio to the new one here…..WJFN-FM, Goochland, Virginia announces a special Saturday program to address the political scandals affecting Democratic politicians that have the state in the national discussion. WJFN is operated by conservative talk radio personality John Fredericks and he has been determined to broaden the conversation about Virginia politics by adding Democratic talk hosts to the program schedule. This weekend, Democrat Susan Platt, who hosts the "Find Your Roar" hourly interview program Saturdays at 9:00 am and Democrat Gene Rossi, host of the "Gene Rossi Show" on Saturdays at 12:00 noon, will team up for a special, two-hour show from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm to address the scandals involving Governor Ralph Northam, Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax, and Attorney General Mark Herring. Fredericks says, "At WJFN, our mission is to provide listeners with timely updates, behind-the-scenes details, and clear analysis about the world of Virginia politics. In the past week, Virginia has been rocked by three distinctive scandals related to race relations and sexual conduct. These are serious and sensitive subjects involving prominent public officials. Many Virginians are reeling from these revelations. In such highly charged moments, we recognize our responsibility to accurately inform our listeners as they put these events into context."…..Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that Newsweb Radio's progressive talk outlet WCPT is losing the host of its 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm daily program as Los Angeles-based Norman Goldman's program will end in the near future. Goldman has told his listeners that the show will end because it is losing money and has "no more money to lose."…..A new podcast called "Mama Said with Jamie and Jenna" is launching on the LadyGang on PodcastOne Network. The program features "Sopranos" actress Jamie-Lynn Sigler and musician Jenna Parris as Sigler, a working and traveling mother, and Parris, a stay-at-home mom and avid researcher, bring together their different perspectives and delve into parenthood with celebrity guests…..iHeartMedia's news/talk WERC, Birmingham is partnering with the Alliance of American Football club the Birmingham Iron to air all 10 of the team's games. The inaugural season of the new football league begins on Sunday (2/10). Veteran broadcaster Thom Abraham serves as the play-by-play voice with former Alabama All-American Mike Johnson as the color commentator.
Trump-Russia Investigation, House Intel Committee Investigation, State of the Union Address, 2020 Presidential Hopefuls/Elizabeth Warren Native American Issue, AOC's Green New Deal, Virginia's Political Chaos, Border Wall Battle, Chicago Cubs Racism Troubles, Venezuela Unrest, James Brown Murder Allegation, and NBA Trade Deadline Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (2/6). The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; House Intelligence Committee chairman Adam Schiff's expansion of his committee's investigation into President Trump; Tuesday evening's State of the Union Address; the Democrats intending to run for president in 2020 and the related story of Senator Elizabeth Warren's claim to be Native American; freshman Rep. Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez's "Green New Deal" legislative agenda; the issues of racism and an allegation of sexual assault dogging Virginia Governor Ralph Northam, attorney general Mark Herring, and Lt. Governor Justin Fairfax; the political battle over President Trump's plan for a wall at the U.S.-Mexico border; the racist emails associated with Joe Ricketts, patriarch of the family that owns the Chicago Cubs; the political unrest in Venezuela; the allegation that both James Brown and the legendary performer's wife were murdered; and the deals taking place at the NBA's trade deadline were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Atlanta, Cumulus Media names Corey Dylan co-host of the "Caddy & Corey" morning show on country WKHX, Atlanta "Kicks 101.5" alongside Cadillac Jack. Dylan has worked in radio at hot AC WMTX, Tampa and news/talk WFLA-AM, Tampa. She most recently has been on television's TMZ and HSN as a guest host. WKHX program director Brian Thomas comments, "I feel so fortunate for Corey to join Cadillac Jack in mornings. Her multi-media experience will create one of the best country shows in radio."
Grapplers Guide to Grinding Out Pinpoint Podcasts
By Mike Kinosian
Managing Editor
LOS ANGELES — On-air personalities have enhanced their "celebrity status" in recent years via personal websites; social media and professional homepages (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.); and by becoming bloggers.
Such platforms have also simultaneously provided a strong voice heretofore largely unavailable to the non-broadcaster.
If not in the traditional over-the-air or satellite-delivered sense, virtually anyone with a computer can achieve their own degree of "stardom" on the internet and there's been no shortage of those giving it a go through podcasting.
Tuesday, November 20, 2018
Minihane Says 'Difference of Opinion' Led to Departure from WEEI, Boston. Appearing on public television outlet WGBH-TV, Boston's "Greater Boston" program with host Jim Braude on Monday (11/19), former WEEI, Boston morning personality Kirk Minihane explained his exit from the "Kirk & Callahan" program, saying he and station owner Entercom had a "difference of opinion" on how the morning show should go forward. He said, "There was just a philosophical difference between the station — Entercom, the ownership — and me. They wanted to go one way. I didn't want to go that way." Minihane said he was asked to sign a document that he wasn't comfortable with. "It basically said you can't be interesting, you can't be mean-spirited, you can't take chances, you can't rip the Red Sox, you can't rip the Boston Globe. And I said, 'I'm not going to participate.'" As reported last week, Minihane will launch a national program on Entercom's RADIO.COM in 2019, he'll host his own podcast and will write for the digital platform as well. Mike Mutnansky now co-hosts the WEEI morning show with Gerry Callahan. Read coverage of the WGBH-TV appearance here.
Nielsen Names IBM SVP David Kenny New CEO. Ratings and consumer behavior giant Nielsen Holdings LLC names former IBM senior vice president David Kenny its new chief executive officer, effective December 3. Kenny takes over for the retiring Mitch Barns at a time when the company is reviewing its corporate strategy – led by board chairman James Attwood – and that could lead to a sale of either its Watch (ratings) or Buy (consumer behavior) segments or a sale of the entire company. Kenny will earn $1.3 million in base salary, the opportunity to earn up to $1.9 million in the Annual Incentive Plan, and participation in the Long Term Incentive Plan. Additionally, Nielsen agrees to compensate Kenny for his loss of unvested equity in IBM with 487,505 Nielsen RSUs (Make Whole RSUs) that will vest in three equal annual installments through 2021; Nielsen will pay him $2.5 million on February 15, 2019 for his loss of an IBM cash retention award; and will pay him $1.5 million upon starting his employment for his loss of the IBM 2018 annual incentive payout.
PodcastOne Launches Four New Podcasts. New programs launching on PodcastOne this month include: "Chad's World," starring "Bachelorette" villain Chad Johnson; "Zane's World" in which world traveler Zane digs deeper into places he's featured on his other travel shows and shares unheard, amazing stories and interviews celebrities about their experiences; "Selfie Made," with author Meredith Rojas on building one's online brand; and "Just Between Us," with "Good Witch" star Bailee Madison and her sister Kaitlin Vilasuso. PodcastOne chairman and CEO Norm Pattiz says, "We're really proud to have created a prime space for social and on-screen influencers to extend their digital brands in the rapidly growing podcast space. We have seen great success in the last year with influencers like Kaitlyn Bristowe, Spencer and Heidi Pratt, Kim Zolciak, and more and we're excited to welcome these four new programs to the party!"
TALKERS News Notes. Talk radio dynamo Simon Conway (left) – heard in afternoon drive on iHeartMedia's WHO, Des Moines and sister WMT-AM, Cedar Rapids – is pulling a couple of days of double duty this week. In addition to his own show, he's also sitting in for WOAI-AM San Antonio-based, nationally syndicated talk show host Joe "Pags" Pagliarulo (right)…..As Major League Baseball's New York Mets change flagship stations from iHeartMedia's WOR to Entercom's WCBS-AM, Mets color analyst of the past six seasons Josh Lewin is leaving New York to return to San Diego to host pre- and post-game shows for San Diego Padres radio broadcasts. Lewin also handles play-by-play for UCLA football. He previously worked in San Diego doing radio broadcasts for the NFL's Chargers…..This Thanksgiving weekend, ABC News is making available a three-hour special titled, "America Gives Thanks," hosted by ABC News correspondent Aaron Katersky that will "highlight tales of prosperity, hope, and kindness that Americans across the country have experienced. It will feature stories of Americans in diverse situations including survivors of wildfires, students from Africa given a chance to succeed in the United States, and recipients of kidney transplants."…..Voxnest announces that podcast producer and host Jonathan Zenti joins the company as head of content. Voxnest notes that Zenti is an award-winning podcast producer and host with more than a decade of distinguished experience across the industry who was most recently made a member of the advisory committee for PRX's Google Podcast creator program.
Acosta Pass Restored/New WH Press Rules, Democrats' Internal House Speaker Battle, Democrats' Whitaker Challenge, Federal Asylum Claims Ruling, Gun Violence Incidents, California Wildfires, Sinking Dow, and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (11/19). The White House restores CNN reporter Jim Acosta's press pass and institutes new rules for reporters covering the White House; the Democrats' battle over Nancy Pelosi as next House Speaker; Senate Democrats challenge appointment of acting AG Matthew Whitaker; the federal ruling blocks President Trump's asylum ban; Monday's spate of gun violence; the devastation from California's wildfires; the reeling Dow loses 400 points and the plummeting of tech stocks; and the weekend's NFL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
'Stuttering' John Melendez Is Guest on Harrison Podcast. Media personality John Melendez, who spent 15 years as an outrageous sidekick and field reporter on Howard Stern's radio and TV shows, followed by a 10-year stint as announcer and writer on the "Tonight Show with Jay Leno," is this week's guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, "The Michael Harrison Interview." Melendez, whose "Stuttering John" character rose to fame in the Howard Stern universe for asking unsuspecting celebrities extremely intimate and embarrassing questions, has just published a memoir, Easy for You to Say (Rare Bird Books, 2018). It discusses his lifelong battle against stuttering going all the way back to his experiences being bullied in school as well as his colorful media career and the major stars with whom he interacted. Melendez talks to Harrison quite candidly about his relationships with both Stern and Leno as well as his perspective on the industry and life. According to Harrison, "This guy is extremely interesting. He's lived both a charmed life and career which he discusses in candid detail in our conversation. What a great guest!" To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the player box marked "The Michael Harrison Interview" located in the right-hand column of the TALKERS email newsletter and on every page of Talkers.com.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Pittsburgh, Michael "Frogman" Ovadia exits Forever Media's country WOGI, "Froggy 104.3" after four years there. Erika "Aligator" Hink – co-host of the "Frogman & Gator" show – continues to host the program solo…..Madison, Wisconsin morning personality Pat O'Neill announces via social media that he's exiting Mid-West Family Broadcasting's adult contemporary WMGN "MAGIC 98" for a yet-to-be-named gig he'll start in January…..WXKS-FM, Boston "Kiss 108" morning drive icon Matt Siegel – host of the "Matty in the Morning" show – comes home with the Broadcaster of the Year award from the Massachusetts Broadcasters Association's "Sound Bites" event. The honor is given annually to "a Massachusetts radio or TV broadcaster who has shown an unwavering dedication to the evolution of broadcasting, breathing life into his/her work by being creative, enthusiastic, and committed to the community." The iHeartMedia personality says, "I am thrilled to receive this honor. I can't believe I've gotten to wake up the city of Boston for the past 38 years while working alongside some of my closest friends. I am very humbled and appreciative to be recognized with such high honors."…..Also from the MBA Sound Bites Awards, Entercom rock WAAF, Boston grabs first place in the "Digital Media" category for "LB's Big Decision," featured on the station's website…..Entercom unveils its "Channel Q" format on KKHH-HD2 in Houston. Entercom Houston SVP and market manager Sarah Frazier comments, "Since its inception in October, 'Channel Q' (formerly known as 'Out Now') has provided a voice for the LGBTQ+ community and we are very excited to bring that voice to the Houston area. We believe this is a perfect fit considering our long-term partnership with Pride Houston."
Wednesday, November 14, 2018
Laura Ingraham to Transition Radio Show to Podcast in January. Talk media personality Laura Ingraham will end her 17-plus years of hosting a live radio talk show in January and launch an original podcast via PodcastOne. Ingraham, who joined FOX News Channel's prime-time lineup last fall, has also been hosting her late morning radio show syndicated via Courtside Entertainment. She says, "While hosting a prime-time television show and raising three children on my own, continuing a three-hour morning radio show was no longer feasible. Although I will greatly miss my radio listeners and affiliates, working late nights and early mornings has taken a toll on my family life. Plus, my radio audience is smart, savvy and committed, and I know most will follow my new show in the format that is revolutionizing the audio world – digital podcasting." She adds, "Without phenomenal producers, a committed sales team, great station managers and program directors — and of course my loyal advertisers – this show wouldn't have been possible. Now it's time for a new adventure." PodcastOne chairman and CEO Norm Pattiz states, "Due to her HUGE success on the FOX News channel, daily podcasts are a much better fit for Laura's hectic schedule and provides her listeners in all markets access at any time to the new Laura Ingraham show podcast. She's at the top of her game and her new original podcasts will fit perfectly on PodcastOne."
Cumulus Q3 Net Revenue Down 1.7%. The third quarter financial numbers for Cumulus Media have been released and the company reports Q3 net revenue of $282.3 million – an dip of 1.7% from the same period in 2017. Net income was $12.7 million and adjusted EBITDA was $62.1 million. Due to its emergence from Chapter 11 reorganization earlier this year, the company notes in its report that "for the purposes of the analysis of the results presented herein, the company is presenting the combined results of operations for the period June 4, 2018 to September 30, 2018 of the Successor Company with the period January 1, 2018 to June 3, 2018 of the Predecessor Company. Although this presentation is not in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, the company believes presenting and analyzing the combined results allows for a more meaningful comparison of results for the nine month period ended September 30, 2018 to the nine months ended September 30, 2017." Cumulus president and CEO Mary Berner comments, "In our first full quarter of operations since emerging from Chapter 11, our positive momentum continued and we remain focused on the path ahead. We delivered another quarter of Adjusted EBITDA growth – approximately 50 basis points on a reported basis and 3.9% when adjusting for the impact of USTN and our exit from WLUP-FM in Chicago. Additionally, in early October, we completed a $50 million prepayment of our term loan using cash generated from operations, demonstrating both our ability to produce significant free cash flow and our commitment to pay down debt with that cash. We continue to believe that our key growth initiatives, including our digital businesses at the Cumulus Radio Station Group, our rapidly expanding podcast business and pricing and inventory management improvements across the Company, as well as our substantial free cash flow generation, position the Company well to create value for all our stakeholders."
iHeartMedia Names Future Board of Directors. When iHeartMedia emerges from Chapter 11 reorganization, it will have a new board of directors and today the company announces who will sit on the board. Current board chairman and CEO Bob Pittman and current president, COO and CFO Rich Bressler will continue to serve on the board with five new board members. They are: former Walt Disney Company executive Jay Rasulo; Spyglass Entertainment co-founder and former MGM Inc. chairman and CEO Gary Barber; Altimeter Capital founder and CEO Brad Gerstner; private investor and director for both Aptiv plc and Arconic Inc Sean Mahoney; and Drawbridge founder and CEO Kamakshi Sivaramakrishnan. Bob Pittman comments, "We are excited about both the depth and range of our new board members. We know our ability to draw on the experience of this unique combination of leaders in their respective fields will give us an unparalleled competitive advantage as we build our next level of growth."
Premiere Networks' Sean Hannity Hits 600-Affiliate Mark. After a little more than 17 years in national syndication, Premiere Networks talk radio superstar Sean Hannity reaches the milestone of 600 affiliate stations. Premiere states, "Hannity's provocative, informed, and passionate commentary on news and politics has amassed a loyal following of more than 18 million listeners monthly. Broadcasting live on weekdays from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm ET, the 2017 National Radio Hall of Fame inductee and two-time Marconi Award winner is one of the most prominent and influential talk radio hosts in the country, whose political foresight and focus on the American agenda has made him the second most-listened-to talk radio host in the U.S." Hannity comments, "I am humbled and appreciative to not only our 600 amazing affiliates, but also to the listeners of this radio show in each and every city. Thank you for this honor!"
Good News for Comrex ACCESS and BRIC-Link II Users; HotSwap Feature Now Available. This new HotSwap feataure allows users of Comrex's IP audio codecs ACCESS and BRIC-Link II to back up dedicated links. This long-sought reliability feature allows users to back up their studio-to-transmitter link or other dedicated link with a wireless modem. CrossLock is Comrex's powerful technology for increasing network reliability and allows codecs to use multiple IP networks at once. CrossLock lets users bond networks together so that more bandwidth is available. Alternately, in redundancy mode, users can send identical streams down both networks. Until now, however, it hasn't been possible to designate one network as primary and a second network to be used only when the primary fails. HotSwap lets users select a network that will only be engaged if the primary network fails. The system will warn of this status with a contact closure, and automatically fallback to the primary once it's restored. Fall-over to backup happens in a matter of seconds, and fallback is seamless. For ACCESS codecs, any supported modem can be used as a back-up. For BRIC-Link II, only Comrex Connect Modems are supported. 4G LTE Comrex Connect Modems are available for purchase through any Comrex dealer. When ordering, ask for the NX model of Connect Modem. Verizon, AT&T, and International versions are available. HotSwap is included in firmware version 4.3, which is available now for all ACCESS and BRIC-Link II codecs. Users can download it for free using Device Manager.
TALKERS News Notes. Sports talk personality Orlando "Big O Alzugaray exits Entercom's WQAM, Miami after a four-year stint hosting the 10:00 am to 2:00 pm program. He'd previously served with the station from 1997 through 2010…..The National Radio Hall of Fame announces it is creating a new award called the "One to Watch," chosen by the NRHoF nominating committee. It was inspired by radio legend Art Laboe, the active radio performer with the longest continuous period of service on air for 75 years and a 2012 National Radio Hall of Fame Inductee. The inaugural "One to Watch" award will be given to Westwood One's Ben Shapiro…..At Salem Media Group's Pittsburgh cluster, Brad Marshall is named general manager. The station group includes news/talk WPGP "1250 The Answer" and its two Christian-formatted outlets. During his career, Marshall has served with iHeartMedia and Cumulus Media in Youngstown, Ohio…..In more Salem Media Group news, the company chooses software provider Aptivada to power the company's contesting, promotions, database management, and newsletters…..AdLarge Media's digital audio advertising unit cabana adds the investigative podcast "Bear Brook" from New Hampshire Public Radio to its content portfolio. The podcast, hosted by NHPR reporter Jason Moon, centers around a decades-old mystery involving four unidentified bodies found in two barrels in New Hampshire's Bear Brook State Park in the 1980s. The first six episodes of "Bear Brook" garnered more than 1.1 million downloads…..NuVoodoo Media Services promotes Eric Cohen to the newly created position of executive vice president, finance. New York-based Cohen joined NuVoodoo Media Services earlier this year as vice president of finance…..iHeartMedia's sports talk KBME, Houston re-ups with the Houston Astros to continue serving as the ballclub's flagship radio station for play-by-play broadcasts.
Deadly California Wildfire, CNN-White House Suit, Florida Recount/Kemp-Abrams Contest/AZ Senate Race, Melania Trump-Mira Ricardel Matter, New Amazon HQs Revealed, Dow Dips Again, Michelle Obama Book Tour, and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (11/13). The California wildfire that has claimed 48 lives so far; CNN's suit against the White House requesting the return of Jim Acosta's WH credentials pass; the re-count troubles in Florida, the Stacey Abrams–Brian Kemp Georgia governor's race, and Kyrsten Sinema's AZ senate seat victory; Melania Trump's move to oust deputy national security adviser Mira Ricardel; Amazon reveals new HQ locations; the Dow loses another 100 points; Michelle Obama's Becoming book tour; and the week's NFL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Program director Derek Harper announces Jarard J is the new evening personality at Urban One's urban AC WAMJ-FM, Atlanta "MAJIC 107/5/97.5," effective November 19. About his new gig, Jarard J says, "When Hurricane Dave and Derek Harper chose me, it illustrated the confidence and faith that the leadership team has in me and I was both humbled and honored. I feel like a first round draft pick. I am excited and ready to ball."…..On-air pro Karen Blake exits Cape Cod Broadcasting's hot AC WQRC, H "99.9 The Q" after five years as the morning personality…..Envision Networks' "Full Metal Jackie Radio" joins the program schedule at AJG Corporation's rock WCLG-FM, Morgantown, West Virginia to air from 10:00 pm to 12:00 midnight on Fridays. And check out host Jackie Kajzer at right holding her KILPOP 2018 Metal Programmer of the Year award.
Tuesday, April 24, 2018
Hannity Named to TIME Magazine's '100 Most Influential.' Talk radio and talk television superstar Sean Hannity is named to TIME Magazine's list of the "100 Most Influential People of 2018." The annual list highlights "pioneers, leaders, titans, artists and icons with insights from peers and contemporaries detailing the honoree's impact" and the Premiere Networks and FOX News Channel personality is listed in the "leaders" section. Each list-maker's entry is written by a fellow celebrity or newsmaker. Hannity's entry is written by former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich, who says: "Sean Hannity has a remarkable impact between three hours of radio and an hour of TV every day. His fans listen to him and learn from him. One of his biggest fans is President Donald Trump, who routinely watches the TV show and talks with Sean as a fellow New Yorker. Hannity played a major role in helping Trump get the nomination and win the general election. Sean is both a principled conservative and a ferocious opponent of the left and the deep state. He has made and is making a difference." See the whole list here.
New York Media on a 'Mike Francesa Watch.'That New York sports talk icon Mike Francesa misses being on the radio talking sports is no secret – he's said as much publicly. But is he, as the New York Post puts it, "desperate?" The Post's Andrew Marchand writes that Francesa is "desperately" trying to get back on the New York airwaves four months after retiring from the afternoon drive gig at Entercom's WFAN-AM/FM "The Fan." Marchand reports that sources indicate he's talked with ESPN about a gig on WEPN and iHeartMedia about a sports talk show on WOR. When asked by Marchand about a return to WFAN, he replied, "I'm not answering questions about any specific stations." See the Post piece here.
Freund Joins PodcastOne as Co-COO. Digital media and sales pro Billy Freund (left) is joining PodcastOne as co-chief operating officer, based in Beverly Hills. Freund will work with fellow COO, East Coast-based Greg Batusic. In making the announcement, PodcastOne founder and executive chairman Norm Pattiz (right) says, "Billy – his actual legal name – and I worked together at Westwood One for several years. He understands the space, and his background – not only in sales but also technology, operations and affiliations – will provide us with even more unique and valuable input to power the growth of the company." Freund's experience includes time spent with Chancellor Media and the Katz Media Group, Westwood One/Metro Networks, and his work co-founding Triton Digital Media. He later served with Clip Interactive. Freund comments, "I am very excited to join the PodcastOne team, working shoulder-to-shoulder with Norman Pattiz, Kit Gray, and Greg Batusic to continue the company's explosive growth across its 250 exclusive podcast programs and highly effective, non-cluttered advertising environment in more than 2.9 billion annual user sessions."
TALKERS News Notes. Nationally syndicated radio talk show "Phil's Gang" featuring host Phil Grande – is added to the program schedule at KCAA, Loma Linda, California. Program executive producer Thomas Biggs Sr. says, "Over two decades now, radio listeners consistently turn to Phil Grande and his 'Phil's Gang' show for the most up-to-date market business news and what Wall Street will not tell you. We are always looking to partner with the strongest programming affiliates and we are excited to be teaming up with KCAA Radio."…..The news division of Westwood One is being honored with the prestigious Sigma Delta Chi award from The Society of Professional Journalists for its breaking news coverage of the Las Vegas concert shooting last October 1. The "Radio Breaking News Reporting Award" recognizes "resourceful and complete coverage of a major breaking news event, emphasizing both deadline reporting and continuing coverage as the story develops over succeeding days." Westwood One News says that its winning entry "represents the scope and scale of Westwood One News coverage, including on-scene reporting by lead correspondent Jim Roope and contributions from the entire Westwood One News staff."…..The Virginia Associated Press Broadcasters Association is honoring Hubbard Radio's WTOP-FM, Washington with nine awards – including five first place finishes. WTOP was recognized for Best Website and Best On-Air Newscast. WTOP director of news and programming Mike McMearty says, "We are proud of the work our team does as a whole to provide relevant news coverage, in a timely and creative fashion. We all share in these awards and consider our successes as a team, a testament to the work we do each day in an effort to serve our community."…..ABC News names Amy Robach the new, permanent co-anchor for its "20/20" news magazine program. She'll work alongside current anchor David Muir…..SiriusXM is providing coverage of this week's 2018 NFL Draft. In addition to broadcasting round-by-round coverage of the draft itself, SiriusXM will present four days of special programming, live from Arlington, Texas featuring the on-site broadcast team of: Gil Brandt, Pat Kirwan, Jim Miller, Phil Savage, Mark Dominik, Jason Horowitz, and Alex Marvez.
Radio News Pro Reid Collins Dies. Radio news pro Reid Collins has died at age 88. Collins spent 20 years of his career with CBS Radio Network – a stint that saw him serve as anchor for the network's flagship news program, "CBS World News Roundup." Prior to his time with CBS, he worked at such signals as WHAM, Rochester and WNEW-AM, New York. After leaving CBS, he served with CNN.
Trump-Russia Investigation, Deadly Toronto Van Attack, Trump-Macron Meeting, Iran Nuclear Deal, Waffle House Killer Apprehended, Pompeo Nomination, Kanye West's Trump Support, and MLB and NBA Playoff Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/23). The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; the van attack in Toronto that took the lives of 10; the meeting in Washington between French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte and President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania; President Trump's threat to exit the nuclear deal with Iran; alleged Waffle House shooter Travis Reinking is apprehended; the confirmation process for Secretary of State nominee Mike Pompeo; the controversy over Kanye West's professed love of President Trump; and Major League Baseball and NBA playoffs action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Beasley CEO Caroline Beasley Named TALKERS Woman of the Year. The TALKERS editorial board has announced this morning (4/20) that Caroline Beasley has been named the 2018 recipient of the TALKERS Woman of the Year award. The award (officially titled "The Judy Jarvis Memorial Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Radio Industry by a Woman") will be presented to Beasley at the forthcoming national talk media industry convention TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! in New York City on Friday, June 8 during her morning fireside chat with Michael Harrison. Caroline Beasley was appointed chief executive officer of Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc. on January 1, 2017, previously serving as interim chief executive officer from March 18, 2016 until December 31, 2016 and as executive vice president, chief financial officer, treasurer and secretary beginning in 1994. Beasley has served as a director of Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc. since she joined the company in 1983. Over her tenure prior to 1994, she was employed in various positions, including business manager, assistant controller and corporate controller. She also serves as the joint board chair of the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) board of directors and is a past chair of the NAB radio board. In addition, she is of the BMI board of directors and the Broadcasters Foundation of America board of directors. Beasley received the 2016 "Distinguished Service Award" from the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters and was the 2012 recipient of the "Frances Preston Trailblazer Award" from the Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio Group (MIW), a national organization dedicated to promoting the advancement of women to senior positions in the radio industry. Harrison states, "Caroline Beasley is an extraordinarily bright rising star among the captains of industry in the radio business and one of the most influential executives operating with a realistic vision of what this medium can do and where it is heading. She was born and raised in a great media family and has had a bird's-eye view of all the changes this business has gone through since her legendary dad started it as a small family enterprise. Radio is in her DNA." Recipients of the prestigious award include: Mary Berner, Ginny Morris, Julie Talbott, Robin Quivers, Robin Bertolucci, Heather Cohen, Grace Blazer, Laurie Cantillo, Stephanie Miller, Randi Rhodes, Laura Ingraham, Kim Komando, Adriane Gaines, Lynn Distler, Lisa Evers, Gloria Allred, and more going all the way back to 2000 when it was originally presented posthumously to pioneering talk show host, Judy Jarvis. For information about TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! please click here.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. The Los Angeles-based "The Woody Show" returns to the San Francisco market after a four-year absence. But this addition to the program's roster is not an iHeartMedia station, it's Cumulus' KFOG. Beginning April 30, Premiere Networks' "The Woody Show" with Woody, Ravey, Greg, Menace, and Sebas will be heard on KFOG and KFFG, Los Altos (San Jose market) from 5:00 am to 10:00 am. KFOG program director Matt Bates says, "The opportunity to align KFOG with such unique and compelling talent doesn't come along often. We recognized this and locked them in. As a fan of 'The Woody Show,' it's remarkable that it's taken this long for them to have a major platform from which they can take back the Bay. 'The Woody Show' represents that bright and entertaining spot in our morning routine. YOU KNOW!"…..iHeartMedia is rewarding KISQ, San Francisco "The Breeze" morning personality Jack Kulp for his success as co-host of "The Morning Breeze" with Carolyn McArdle with a contract extension. At the same time, the company happily boasts the two-year-old adult contemporary station is "the #1 music station in total audience share (6+) — up from # 17 when it was a rhythmic oldies station." iHeartMedia SVP of programming for the San Francisco region Don Parker says, "Launching 'The Breeze' was a game-changer for KISQ. The station's steady growth pattern to # 1 station in the market, surpassing such an iconic brand as heritage KOIT, is a direct result of the right mixture of programming and talent that resonates well with the Bay Area community. Ricci Filiar, the station's program director, has really done a fantastic job establishing 'The Breeze' as one of the Bay's premiere radio stations. We are also thrilled to extend our relationship with talent like Jack who joined the station at launch and continues to build a strong relationship with our listeners."…..Cumulus Media promotes Adam "Kash" Kashner to assistant program director for country WFMS, Indianapolis. Kash retains his roles as on-air host, weekends/fill-ins on WFMS and on sister classic hits WJJK. Cumulus Indy VP and market manager Tom Stemlar says, "Adam is an essential piece of our programming, sales and marketing organizations and I couldn't be more excited that he's decided to continue his career at Cumulus Indianapolis as APD of WFMS."…..iHeartMedia elevates media management and sales pro Aaron Hyland to market president for the company's Baltimore market, including country WPOC, CHR WZFT, adult hits WQSR, and Gospel WCAO-AM. Hyland will also continue to oversee sales for the Washington, D.C. region as regional senior vice president.
Wednesday, February 7, 2018
KTRH, Houston's Michael Berry Chats On Air with iHM CEO Bob Pittman. During a visit to the Houston offices of iHeartMedia, company CEO Bob Pittman took a few minutes to sit in on the Michael Berry show based at flagship station KTRH, Houston. He talked with Berry about his belief in the audio experience. "I'm bullish on audio…depends on how you count it, we're probably the number two podcaster in the U.S., behind NPR. Podcasting has shown that, oh my gosh, people actually want to listen to people go in depth. Certainly, radio has this enormous listenership…but we're adding these pieces to it to make this even better and we're doing this because the audience wants it." He also expressed his belief that smart speakers – such as Google's Alexa – are the new clock/radio for the consumer's home, citing their growth in popularity and ease of use. Check out the segment here.
PodcastOne Series "Up Close and Far Out with Michael Harrison" Rebranding with Expanded Scope. Beginning this week, in marking its third anniversary, the weekly PodcastOne series "Up Close and Far Out with Michael Harrison" will transition to a new name and incorporate a wider scope of guests and topics. Under the new title, "The Michael Harrison Interview," the program will be less targeted to the talk media and radio industries and more aimed at a worldwide general audience consisting of what its host,TALKERS founder Michael Harrison, describes as "media freaks,pop culture aficionados, political junkies and the philosophically curious." Although the newly positioned podcast will still include guests from the talk media field, it will also delve deeper into politics, science, the arts, technology, sociology, sports and philosophy. As far as the weekly audio interviews with talk media figures that "Up Close and Far Out" has encompassed are concerned, Harrison will continue to conduct them and post them on Talkers.com. According to Harrison, "Nothing will change in that regard. We have been very successful with the Talkers interviews and will continue to do them. I will basically be doing an extra podcast each week with this expanded vehicle." In announcing the expansion of the PodcastOne series, company founder and executive chairman Norm Pattiz states, "I met Michael Harrison decades ago in Los Angeles when he was managing editor of Radio & Records. He also was a leading major market music and talk personality on KMET and syndicated nationally as a star performer on several of the top networks including Westwood One. He had an amazing range and skill set as a broadcaster. He voluntarily gave that up as the years passed to concentrate on his role as a trade magazine publisher and industry thought-leader. In time, most folks in the business forgot that he was one of the best interviewers and all around broadcasters in radio. I'm pleased to say that his performance on 'Up Close and Far Out' these past three years caused many people in the industry to take notice of his outstanding talent as an interviewer beyond just the topic of radio. It has led to a number of stand-out, major market fill-in appearances and now, this new podcast. I'm delighted to roll out one of the best kept secrets in the radio business – Michael Harrison as a world class talk show host." To listen to the debut installment of "The Michael Harrison Interview" featuring a deep-dive conversation with The Federalist publisher Ben Domenech, please click here.
Judge Shoots Down Request by Nielsen and Bubba Attorneys to Use Electronic Devices in Pre-Trial Conference. When the pre-trial conference gets underway on Friday (2/9) at 11:30 in U.S. District Court in Tampa, the lawyers for both sides in the Nielsen vs Bubba the Love Sponge case will be without their laptops, iPads and smartphones. Lawyers for both parties filed a Joint Motion to Permit Use of Electronic Equipment, but were denied. Nielsen is suing Bubba the Love Sponge for $1 million for damages related to the ratings manipulation case in the Tampa market. Bubba is countersuing.
TALKERS News Notes. There's a programming change at Dickey Broadcasting's sports talk WCNN-AM/W229AG, Atlanta "680 and 93.7 The Fan" as the morning drive and late morning shows flip-flop. "The Front Row" with Steak Shapiro, Sandra Golden, and Brian Finneran moves to the morning drive slot and the Nick Cellini and Chris Dimino show moves from mornings to the 9:00 am to 12:00 noon daypart. The rest of the program schedule stays as is…..Another high-profile departure from NPR happens amidst allegations of sexual impropriety. This time, award-winning investigative journalist Daniel Zwerdling exits the organization, according to a report in The Current. The story says that all NPR would confirm is that Zwerdling is no longer on the staff. Zwerdling himself states that allegations of sexual harassment are untrue and that he retired from NPR in January. But, the story notes that "at least two NPR staffers reported Zwerdling to human resources in November." It also reports that subsequent allegations go back to the mid-1990s. Zwerdling is quoted saying, "The allegations are not true. When the movement started sweeping across the nation recently to expose sexual harassers and predators, I applauded it. I still do. The current national reckoning regarding sexual harassment is a momentous opportunity for America to make itself a better, safer and more equitable country. Yet as many have already observed, there are also perhaps predictable and troubling collateral casualties along the way. The allegations against me are one of those instances."
Former WFNI-AM/WIBC-FM, Indianapolis Staffer Loses Harassment Case Against Emmis. The complaint against Emmis by former WFNI and WIBC, Indianapolis digital brand manager Kristine Esser Slentz was dismissed after Emmis sought a Motion to Strike and a Motion for Summary Judgement and was granted those motions. The court also sustained Emmis' objections to Slentz's evidence as hearsay. In her complaint, Slentz said that two show producers with whom she interacted in the course of her job, called her a "bitch" behind her back and criticized her work, among other actions she says created a hostile work environment. But the court granted Emmis' motions due to its agreement that any name-calling was hearsay – never heard by Slentz herself, and that the actions alleged on the part of the two producers, if true, did not cross the thresholds necessary for a hostile work environment claim.
Nominees Being Accepted for National Radio Hall of Fame. March 30 is the deadline for nominations for the 30th Annual National Radio Hall of Fame Induction that will take place in New York City in November. The NRHOF nominating committee wants you to know you should make suggestions for individuals in the following categories: Longstanding Local/Regional (20 years or more), Active Local/Regional (10 years or more), Networks/Syndication (10 years or more), Longstanding Network/Syndication (20 years or more), Music Format On-Air Personality, and/or Spoken Word On-Air Personality. National Radio Hall of Fame chairman Kraig T. Kitchin says, "We're looking forward to celebrating this milestone anniversary in New York City. As we prepare for the special evening, it's our priority to provide everyone the opportunity to be a part of it, starting with suggestions for our 2018 nominees."
RAB: Radio's Digital Revenue Grew 13.4% in 2017. This data comes from the Radio Advertising Bureau and Borrell Associates study called, "Benchmarking Local Radio Stations' Online Revenues." This is the 6th annual RAB-Borrell report that analyzes online ad revenue from more than 10,000 radio stations, as well as survey responses from more than 1,300 local businesses that buy radio advertising. Among the findings: 1) 85% of radio advertisers are also buying some form of digital advertising, and that three-quarters of them are buying digital and radio together; 2) digital ad revenue now accounts for 7.5% of the average station's ad revenues, up from 6.3% last year; 3) digital revenue grew 13.4% in 2017, to a total of $700 million. The forecast for 2018 is even higher; and 4) radio advertisers' top marketing goal is to acquire new business, and they rank social media and radio as the top two methods to achieve those goals. RAB president and CEO Erica Farber comments, "Digital has been integrated into all facets of broadcast radio's offering both in programming and sales, and the results are definitely paying off. As radio continues to provide integrated marketing solutions to its advertisers we expect to see continued growth. The RAB is focused on providing digital training and continued knowledge building for our members so they can better serve their clients." RAB members can get the full report here.
Dow Activity/Bitcoin Value Swings, Trump-Russia Investigation, Trump Requests Military Parade, Government Shutdown Threat/Immigration Policy, FBI Surveillance Memo/Texting Scandal, Illegal Charged with NFL Player's Death in DUI, Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, Black Panther Film, LA Times Sale, and NBA Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (2/6). The Dow returns more than 500 points and the related fluctuating value of Bitcoin; the Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives; President Trump requests the Pentagon stage a military parade; the renewed threat of a government shutdown and President Trump's insistence on immigration reform being tied to a spending bill; the release of the Nunes FBI surveillance memo and the suggestion that the FBI texting scandal involved Barack Obama; a twice-deported illegal alien is charged in the DUI death of Indianapolis Colts player Edwin Jackson; the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea; the political messages within The Black Panther film; the Los Angeles Times is sold to a SoCal billionaire doctor; and NBA action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. St. Louis morning drive personality Courtney Landrum re-ups with Entercom's hot AC KYKY "Y98" on a multi-year deal. At the same time, the name of the morning show is being changed to "Courtney and Company." The station says that "Y98" personalities Jen Myers, Kevin "The Intern" Berghoff, and Lance Hildebrand will remain on the show. Landrum began her professional career as producer for "The Steve and DC Morning Show" in St. Louis in the early 1990s. She joined "Y98" in 1999 as producer and co-host of "The Phillips and Company Morning Show," and has been with the morning show ever since…..In Los Angeles, SVP/market manager Val Maki and VP/sales Janet Brainin make an unexpected exit from Meruelo Media Los Angeles, operator of classic hip hop simulcast "KDAY" – KDAY, Redondo Beach and KDEY, Ontario – and hip hop KPWR "Power 106." Both transitioned to Meruelo after having been with Emmis at KPWR for years prior to the sale of the station to Meruelo…..KUPL, Portland "98.7 The Bull" evening personality Cassidy Quinn is covering the Winter Olympics embedded as a reporter for NBC. KUPL program director MoJoe Roberts says, "There is no better-suited person to capture the stories and behind-the-scenes moments than Cassidy! We can't wait to see and hear these highlights come to life from her perspective."…..Indiana-based Woof Boom flips former Christian contemporary WKHL, West LaFayette to adult contemporary (with new calls WLQQ) as "Q106.7" after purchasing the station from Educational Media Foundation…..Eric Garcia exits his audio revenue chief position at Spanish Broadcasting System and his additional position as VP/GM of WSKQ/WPAT, New York. At SBS New York, Albert Rodriguez COO of SBS is the interim general manager and Elizabeth "Liz" Paulino was promoted to general sales manager.
PPM Analysis: Adult Contemporary. Managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio's Holiday 2017 PPM survey, today focusing on adult contemporary. The Holiday survey is usually a bonanza for adult contemporary outlets since Christmas music is such a part of their programming and the fluctuations in 6+ numbers from the December survey to the Holiday survey bear that out as "eight of 10 adult contemporary facilities noted here (80%) are up December 2017 – Holiday 2017, while 18% are down; the remaining 2% are steady." Looking at a comparison of Holiday 2016 to Holiday 2017, "approximately the same number of adult contemporary stations on this sample decline year-to-year (49%) as improve (46%), while the remaining 5% are flat." An amazing 38 AC stations ranked #1 in their respective markets (6+) during the Holiday survey. See the whole report here.
Wednesday, January 31, 2018
Talking with Kellyanne Conway at the White House Radio Row. Talk40.com News publisher Bryan Crabtree (center) and conservative media figure Robyn Walensky (right) interview White House spokesperson Kellyanne Conway (left) at today's (1/31) White House radio row. Crabtree tells TALKERS the administration-sponsored event at the Old Executive Office Building "included a few strategic radio and blogging hosts to be able to speak with cabinet and top White House officials in order to react to the State of the Union." Some of the other administration officials who took part included: Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, Energy Secretary Rick Perry, Education Secretary Betsy DeVos. Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta, Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, and Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin, among others.
It's Official: WSCR Grabs Bulls by the Horns. Seeking to shed unprofitable contracts, Chapter 11-ensconced Cumulus Media asked the bankruptcy court to allow it out of a number of deals that are losing money, including its WLS-AM, Chicago contracts to air Chicago Bulls and Chicago White Sox games. Now, one of those contracts is void after the Bulls and Entercom agreed to terms to air the NBA club's games on its sports talk WSCR "The Score." The announcement was made on this morning's "Mully & Hanley" show with market manager Jimmy de Castro and operations director Mitch Rosen breaking the news. The first Bulls game on WSCR will air on Saturday (2/3) as they play at the LA Clippers. The question that remains is where will the White Sox end up? At Tribune's WGN, at ESPN's WMVP, or somewhere else? Stay tuned.
WXDE, Salisbury-Ocean City, Delaware Adds Talk Pro Ed Tyll to New Program Lineup. Salisbury-Ocean City news/talker WXDE, Lewes "Delaware 105.9" announces another addition to its new lineup as talk radio pro Ed Tyll joins to host the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm show. Recent arrival Rob Sussman is hosting the 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm daypart. Sussman had been serving at KBUR, Burlington, Iowa as news director. Station programmer Dan Gaffney continues as morning personality and Susan Monday – whose show is simulcast to Delmarva Broadcasting sister station WDEL, Wilmington – airs from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. Gaffney states, "Ed Tyll is one of the most passionate talk show hosts I have heard and it is exciting to hear his energy blasting out of the speakers from WXDE. And, if anyone ever wanted to know where the next generation of great talk show host talent is, we have that too in 26-year-old Rob Sussman!"
TALKERS News Notes. The January cable news/talk numbers are in and, according to a report by TVNewser, FOX News Channel's Sean Hannity led all competitors in total viewer average with 3.27 million. FNC had seven of the top 10 cable news/talk shows in January in total viewer average – Tucker Carlson finished #3 and Laura Ingraham's "The Ingraham Angle" was #4. In the adults 25-54 demo, MSNBC's Rachel Maddow was #1, edging FNC's Sean Hannity 678,000 to 660,000. The rest of the adults 25-54 top five were "Tucker Carlson Tonight" (597,000), "Last Word With Lawrence O'Donnell (518,000), and "The Ingraham Angle" (504,000)…..Former FOX News Channel and Talk Radio Network star Andrea Tantaros is continuing her legal battle against FNC, now claiming that the late Roger Ailes used a closed circuit video system to view female staffers changing their clothes in the wardrobe department. This amended complaint is part of Tantaros' ongoing allegation that FNC engaged in retaliation against her. For its part, FOX replied to the report in The Hollywood Reporter, saying, "Fox News moved for sanctions against the lawyer who filed Andrea Tantaros' original lawsuit and he has since withdrawn. None of the four lawyers currently representing Tantaros in the action signed her new complaint, which she purports to have written herself. Her outlandish claims lack any factual basis."
Jim Bohannon Celebrates 25 Years of Nightly Program. Nationally syndicated late-night talk show host Jim Bohannon is pictured above celebrating his 25th anniversary hosting his eponymous Westwood One radio talk show. Bohannon took over the time slot back on January 29, 1993 from Larry King. Bohannon's staff surprised him with a special celebratory broadcast that included: a customized montage, a surprise call-in greeting from Larry King, plus congratulatory messages from Westwood One personalities Dennis Miller, Charles Osgood, and Michael Savage. Check out the audio here. Westwood One EVP news & talk Bart Tessler comments, "It's been a highlight of my career working with Jim over a very fast 25 years and producing programs with him across the country and around the world. Jim Bohannon has long been the standard bearer for a great talk show host: intelligent, informed, passionate, and funny. Congratulations to Jim on a superb 25 years."
1,000 Smackeroos for PodcastOne Staffers. In celebration of the new corporate tax rate, PodcastOne founder and executive chairman Norm Pattiz announces the company is awarding $1,000 bonuses to all of the company's full-time employees. Pattiz says, "There's no question that cutting the corporate federal tax rate to 21% will have a positive effect on business, ours included. We want our employees to feel the direct benefit of these cuts, especially since because of their efforts we are coming off another record year in 2017. So, we say, 'Thank you' to our dedicated staff and 'job well done.'"
State of the Union Address, Trump-Russia Probe, Andrew McCabe Resignation, DACA Status/Immigration Policy, FISA Abuses Memo, U.S.-Turkey-Russia Relations, Flu Epidemic, Anti-Military Teacher Rant, Super Blue Blood Moon, and Super Bowl LII Among News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/30). Tuesday evening's State of the Union Address by President Trump; the Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives; Deputy FBI Director Andrew McCabe resigns from his position under pressure from President Trump; the status of the Obama-era DACA Act and the Trump administration's immigration policy; the House Intelligence Committee's vote to release a memo detailing alleged surveillance abuses by the FBI and the Justice Department; the tenuous relations between the U.S. and Turkey over the latter's attacks on Kurds in Northern Syria and Russia's involvement in Turkish policy in Syria; the flu epidemic that's sweeping the U.S.; the viral video of a Los Angeles-area teacher's rant about U.S. military policy in which he called U.S. soldiers "the lowest of the low"; Wednesday's rare "super blue blood moon"; and Sunday's Super Bowl LII were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Cox Media Group Joins Trustworthy Accountability Group. In an effort to improve transparency and combat criminal activity in digital advertising, Cox Media Group announces it is now a participant in the TAG Registry by the Trustworthy Accountability Group. TAG is a digital industry program created to fight fraudulent traffic and improve transparency in the digital ecosystem. TAG Registered companies have been verified as legitimate participants in the digital advertising industry through a proprietary background check and review process powered by Dun & Bradstreet and approved by TAG. TAG Registration is also the baseline requirement for companies to apply for TAG's four certification programs around fighting fraudulent traffic, stopping ad-supported piracy, reducing malware, and improving transparency. Vice president of CMGdigital Joe Weir comments, "Reliable data, transparency, and a brand safe environment are very important to Cox Media Group. We are committed to delivering quality inventory for our advertisers and our participation in the TAG Registry is a sign of that commitment. The digital ad supply chain is very complex and can be challenging to navigate. The TAG Registry is an important tool for companies to confirm they are doing businesses with legitimate counterparties in the digital advertising space."
Doing Relief Aid in Haiti. Pictured above is Salem Radio Network vice president news & talk programming Tom Tradup with a group of children in Citi de Soleil, Haiti. Tradup is working with the relief organization Food For The Poor.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. RAMP24/7.com reports that KINK, Portland program director and afternoon drive host Sean Demery is recovering from a brain-stem stroke suffered on January 20. Demery has been programming the Alpha Media triple A station since March of last year. RAMP published the following: "It is with heavy hearts but positive spirits that the family and friends of Sean Demery…would like to inform you of his recent medical issue. Sean suffered a brain-stem stroke on January 20. We are told that Sean's spirits are good, as he's been requesting his favorite bands, checking in on KINK daily, and conversing with family and friends and checking email and texts. There is a long road to recovery ahead for Sean, and we ask for your continued support, positive thoughts and prayers. Sean's wife Jennifer has asked that you check in on Sean's Facebook page for updates and to post supportive messages, videos and photos for Sean. We also ask that you respect the privacy of Sean's family and please direct your messages, posts and well-wishes to the Facebook Group. Hearing from his friends and listeners is the best therapy he can receive, so thank you!"…..Los Angeles CHR KAMP "97.1 AMP Radio" adds Chelsea Briggs to the morning show with Edgar Sotelo and Brian Moote. Entercom Los Angeles SVP and market manager Jeff Federman comments, "Chelsea is a social media superstar and we are thrilled to bring her unique personality to the new 'AMP Morning Show' with Edgar and Brian. Their chemistry is unparalleled and I'm confident that the three of them will create sensational mornings for our listeners." Briggs has most recently been serving as a correspondent for Billboard News…..iHeartMedia and KGB, San Diego morning personality Bob Buchman come to terms on a contract extension to keep him working alongside Coe Lewis on the classic rock morning station. KGP program director Shauna Moran states, "Bob has been a vital piece of our programming puzzle here in San Diego and we look forward to more successful years. Bob and Coe have been a favorite of the rock radio morning commute and we are excited that it will continue."…..Chelsea Alayne is the new morning host at Sun Broadcasting's rock WXNX, Fort Myers "93X." She takes over the daypart from Spam, who exited in December of 2017.
CHR KZIA, Cedar Rapids Owner Killed in Deadly Auto Crash. According to a report by KCRG-TV, Cedar Rapids, KZIA Inc. owner Robert Norton Jr. was driving the wrong way on I-380 when he struck a car driven by 28-year-old Jennifer Koenighain. Both were declared dead at the scene. Norton's company owned and operated CHR KZIA "Z102.9," sports KGYM, and adult hits KZIA-HD2/K236AA.
Tuesday, January 30, 2018
Emmis Reaches Agreements in Principle to Sell Its Four St. Louis Stations. These agreements in principle are exactly that and subsequent definitive agreements mean more, but Emmis Communications announced today (1/30) that it will sell classic rock KSHE and alternative rock KPNT "The Point" to Hubbard Radio and news/talk KFTK-FM and CHR KNOU to Entercom. Terms – including price – are not available at this time. If the sales are finalized and pass regulatory approval, Entercom would own both heritage news/talk KMOX and news/talk KFTK. It seems unlikely that Entercom would operate two conservative news/talk stations in the same market and KFTK's Class C1 FM signal would be a prime candidate for a flip to a music format.
Imus in the Morning/WABC Update. From the mouth of WABC, New York morning legend Don Imus comes the news that when his show ends on March 29, certain staff members are leaving along with him. The I-man said that show engineer Lou Rufino, along with cast members Rob Bartlett and Tony Powell will not continue with Cumulus Media's 77WABC. TALKERS magazine sources also say that, effective today (1/30), Lisa Ritchie moves from evening news anchor position to weekday afternoon news anchor. Also, weekday street reporter Jerry Barmash assumes the evening news anchor role.
Ralph Bristol Exits WWTN-FM, Nashville Morning Show. There's a change in mornings at Cumulus Media's news/talk WWTN-FM, Nashville "Super Talk 99.7 WTN" as morning personality Ralph Bristol exits the station. There's no official word from Cumulus on this change, but former WMAL-AM/FM, Washington morning host Brian Wilson has been sitting in on the morning show, so far. The rest of the weekday lineup on WTN is Michael Del Giorno in late mornings, Dan Mandis in early afternoons, and Phil Valentine in afternoon drive.
PodcastOne Founder and Executive Chairman Norm Pattiz to Present a "Podcasting for Radio Broadcasters" Clinic at TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! The founder and executive chairman of one of the talk media industry's leading podcasting platforms, PodcastOne, will address the attendees at the forthcoming TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! on the subject of "Podcasting for Radio Broadcasters." As podcasting grows into a major communications business and modern-day cultural phenomenon, it is becoming clear that the practice is an extension of the radio industry's platform projection into the digital space. According to Norm Pattiz, "There are unlimited potential and yet untapped opportunities for radio broadcasters to expand their programming, brands and potential for revenue generation in this exciting field. We will discuss some of them at the TALKERS conference."
TALKERS News Notes. Talk show host Jeremy Leahy's "Standing Ground" program picks up another affiliate as WLBB, Carrollton, Georgia adds the show to its program schedule. TalkAmericaRadio.US operations manager Ron Phillips comments, "We are extremely proud to be carrying Jeremy's program. In his unfiltered style, he guides the listener through all aspects of our political landscape. He is well on his way to being a headliner on our national network."…..USA Radio Network is reporting that "WAR Now: The Wayne Allyn Root Show" has added new affiliate stations, including KBDT, Dallas (USA Radio's new flagship station) and KSPK, Minneapolis. Additionally, the 8:00 pm ET hour of the program is carried by Newsmax TV, reaching some 50 million households…..Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that sources tell him the rights to Chicago Bulls play-by-play could transfer from Cumulus Media's news/talk WLS-AM to Entercom's sports talker WSCR "The Score," as a deal is close to being struck. As part of its Chapter 11 bankruptcy and company-wide cost-cutting measures, Cumulus is asking out of its deals with the Bulls and MLB's White Sox. It's hard to say where the White Sox rights may end up. WSCR also carries the Cubs. Tribune's WGN let go of the Cubs several years ago, presumably for financial reasons. And, it's not certain if sport talker WMVP parent ESPN is interested in the White Sox. Stay tuned…..Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie is entering the news media game. He was introduced on ABC's "Good Morning America" program today (1/30) by George Stephanopoulos as the newest ABC News contributor. He was referred to as a friend and adviser to President Trump. Christie – a former U.S. prosecutor gave his takes on the exit of FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe and the Robert Mueller special investigation…..Cumulus Media news/talk KABC, Los Angeles was honored by Southern California's RTNA with five top honors at the 68th Annual RTNA Golden Mike Awards on Saturday (1/27). The station took home the following: Best Newscast Under 15 Minutes: Leeann Tweeden, anchor; Sharon Reardon, editor; Best Sports Segment: Randy Wang; Best Government and Political Reporting: James Rojas; Best Traffic Reporter: Bill Thomas; and Best News Reporting by Radio Network or Content Syndicator: Westwood One's Jim Roope.
Merlin Media Still Negotiating with Cumulus. WKQX-FM and WLUP-FM, Chicago owner Merlin Media filed yesterday (1/29) with the bankruptcy court handling Cumulus Media's Chapter 11 case, informing it that it is still working with Cumulus to seek a mutually beneficial solution to the ownership of the two stations. Those following the Cumulus bankruptcy case recall that the company is asking the court to let it out of a number of contracts that are losing money. One of those is the LMA of WKQX and WLUP. Under the terms of the deal, Cumulus is also under obligation to buy the two signals for around $50 million. Merlin acknowledges that, in the event negotiations fail and pending a court ruling, it is preparing to either operate the alternative and classic rock stations itself and/or seek another buyer. Also, Merlin is objecting to Cumulus classifying the Merlin contract as a subordinating claim – which would make it payable only after senior claims are settled.
Andrew McCabe Resignation, Trump-Russia Investigation/Kremlin List, FISA Abuses Memo, State of the Union Address, Criticism of Politicized Grammys, DACA Status/Immigration Policy, Strava Security Concerns, Flu Epidemic, and Super Bowl LII Among News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/29). Deputy FBI Director Andrew McCabe resigns from his position under pressure from President Trump; the Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russia agents and Vladimir Putin's response to the U.S. Treasury Department's "Kremlin list" of Russian politicians and oligarchs who've thrived under Putin; the House Intelligence Committee's vote to release a memo detailing alleged surveillance abuses by the FBI and the Justice Department; President Trump's State of the Union Address; criticism of the political speeches at Sunday night's Grammy Awards; the status of the Obama-era DACA Act and the Trump administration's immigration policy; concerns of the security of U.S. service personnel after use of the Strava workout app appears to reveal their locations; the flu epidemic that's sweeping the U.S.; and Sunday's Super Bowl LII were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Morning radio personality John Forsythe is retiring from iHeartMedia's adult contemporary WMGF, Orlando "Magic 107.7" where he's been co-hosting AM drive with Leslye Gale since 2010. During his 50-year career, Forsythe has worked at such stations as WQAM-AM, Miami; KLIF-AM, Dallas; KKOB-FM, Albuquerque; and KCBQ, San Diego. About retirement, Forsythe says, "It's been a difficult decision to step away from such a successful show but it's time. Radio has given me so many amazing life experiences. From the early days in Miami with the Bee Gees living on the same canal as 'QAM in the '70s, to being part of the Chargers broadcast team in the '80s, to raising millions for children's hospitals in the '90s and 2000s, radio has enriched my life in so many ways! I'm grateful for the opportunity to try and make someone's day better through warmth and laughter."…..The Atlanta Journal Constitution's Rodney Ho reports that Entercom urban contemporary WVEE, Atlanta "V-103" will replace departing morning personality Ryan Cameron with familiar voices – Frank Ski and Miss Sophia, along with Wanda Smith. Ski returns to the station after exiting in 2012 and Miss Sophia returns after an almost eight-year absence…..When the new Justin Timberlake album Man of the Woods drops this Friday (2/2), it will be available on demand via iHeartRadio starting at 12:00 midnight ET. iHeartRadio and Timberlake have teamed up to gift fans with the access to stream the album all weekend long during iHeartRadio's "All Access Free Preview Weekend." At 8:00 pm ET on Friday, iHeartMedia's digital platform will host an iHeartRadio Album Preview with Justin Timberlake across broadcast stations nationwide and digitally on iHeartRadio's Hit Nation featuring an exclusive interview about the making of the album…..iHeartMedia rock station KEGL, Dallas "97.1 The Eagle" announces the lineup for this year's "BFD 2018" concert at Starplex Pavilion on May 26. The day-long concert will feature performances from A Perfect Circle, Stone Temple Pilots, Theory of a Deadman, I Prevail, Nothing More, Candlebox, 10 Years, and The Blue Stones…..SiriusXM is devoting a channel to the music of Billy Joel all during February. The Billy Joel Channel will feature the works of Joel plus a new series, "BJ the DJ" in which Joel plays some of the artists he admires most. Each show will be focused on a different genre of music including pop, rock and R&B. Billy will host this series while sitting at his piano illustrating musically and verbally each song he selects.
Thursday, September 28, 2017
FCC Chairman Pai Asks Apple to Activate FM Chips. In a statement issued today (9/28), Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai is asking Apple – the lone major smartphone manufacturer holdout – to agree to activate the FM chips installed in phones. Pai says, "When wireless networks go down during a natural disaster, smartphones with activated FM chips can allow Americans to get vital access to life-saving information. I applaud those companies that have done the right thing by activating the FM chips in their phones. Apple is the one major phone manufacturer that has resisted doing so. But I hope the company will reconsider its position, given the devastation wrought by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. That's why I am asking Apple to activate the FM chips that are in its iPhones. It is time for Apple to step up to the plate and put the safety of the American people first." There has been no public response to Pai's statement by Apple.
Price Tag for Entercom-EMF Deal: $57.75 Million. We know the price for the three Entercom radio stations sold to Educational Media Foundation after Entercom filed with the FCC. These three stations are the first of the divestitures required to facilitate the merger of Entercom and CBS RADIO. Educational Media Foundation is paying Entercom $57.75 million for KSWD, Los Angeles; KSOQ, Escondido (San Diego market), and WGGI, Benton, PA (Wilkes-Barre/Scranton market).
WSB, Atlanta's Condace Pressley Receives Local Honor. The Atlanta Business League has just announced its 2017 list of "Atlanta's Top 100 Black Women of Influence" and WSB Radio manager of program operations and community affairs Condace Pressley is honored as a member of this year's list. Pressley was recognized during the "Women of Vision" breakfast on Tuesday (9/26) at the Sheraton Atlanta Hotel. Since 1994, the list has reflected the names of black women in the metro Atlanta community who have reached senior level positions within their profession, are leading entrepreneurs in their industry, or have attained the ability to influence large public bodies politically and in government. WSB-AM/WSBB-FM director of branding and programming Pete Spriggs comments, "Condace quietly and humbly moves through Atlanta's communities and serves, mentors and leads every day. And, she's done that throughout her entire career with WSB and 'KISS 104.' I am so proud and pleased that she gets this kind of due fanfare."
Financial Talker Ray Lucia Seeks Supreme Court Ruling to Get Back into Investment Business. Financial talk radio host Ray Lucia is taking his ouster from the securities industry by the Securities and Exchange Commission to the U.S. Supreme Court. The San Diego Reader has a lengthy story on the matter here. The short version is that Lucia was banned in 2013 after the SEC ruled that his "Buckets of Money" investment plan was not "backtested." He has appealed the ruling to no avail. Now, he's arguing that the administrative law judge responsible for the decision to kick him out of the industry was appointed unconstitutionally. Lucia's attorney tells the paper he believes the SCOTUS will hear the case. Lucia's program is syndicated via the Biz Talk Radio network.
TALKERS News Notes. As part of its "Community Conversation" series, Scripps' Milwaukee news/talk WTMJ's news department is presenting a program addressing the controversy surrounding player protests during the national anthem at NFL games. The uninterrupted, one-hour special takes place this afternoon (9/28) at 4:00 pm CT. The conversation will lead directly into WTMJ Radio pregame coverage of the Green Bay Packers vs Chicago Bears game at Lambeau Field. WTMJ director of programming and news Eric Brooks states, "The protests by NFL players during the national anthem have sparked debate and raised awareness of the issues of social justice in the country. WTMJ Radio is the flagship station of the Green Bay Packers and the de facto town hall for the state of Wisconsin. We feel it's our duty to provide a high-profile place for all sides of the conversation to be heard." WTMJ hosts John Mercure and Melissa Barclay will moderate the special that is also being streamed at wtmj.com and via Facebook Live…..Dallas talk show host Jon-David Wells announces via Facebook that his talk show "The Wells Report" is soon to be heard in the market on Salem Media Group's KVCE-AM, Highland Park as it flips from a simulcast of Christian teaching KWRD-FM to news/talk as "1160 AM KBDT – Big D Talk." Wells says his program, previously heard on Salem's news/talk KSKY, is also being distributed via USA Radio Network…..Pictured at right is Salem Radio Network East Coast affiliate relations manager Jim Bligh in a still shot from a promo for this weekend's season premiere of "Saturday Night Live." Bligh plays a security guard who won't let guest star Ryan Gosling upstairs without a guest pass. See the video here. When Bligh is not scratching his acting itch (he's appeared in motion pictures such as Man on a Ledge and Ricki and the Flash), he's securing new affiliate stations for SRN's Hugh Hewitt, Mike Gallagher, Larry Elder and others.
PodcastOne and Former Staffer in Legal Tangle. Former PodcastOne producer Raymond Hernandez and company founder and chairman Norm Pattiz have very different views of the issues surrounding Hernandez's claims against Pattiz. As reported first in Variety, Hernandez is suing PodcastOne for unlawful termination, claiming that he was let go for protesting instructions from Pattiz to "inflate download numbers" of the company's podcasts. PodcastOne attorney Marvin Putnam, however, says, "Mr. Hernandez was fired for stealing intellectual property from PodcastOne — a theft he has admitted to committing." In the complaint, Hernandez says Pattiz, who is a reserve sheriff's deputy, set his revolver on a desk with the barrel pointing toward him in order to intimidate him. Pattiz reponds, "This guy must be crazy. I've never met alone with him. I didn't hire him or fire him. I barely know who he is. The fact that I'm a law enforcement reserve is well known as I have public service awards in my office. I didn't and would never act in the manner that's been described… His allegations are absurd."
Alliance for Women in Media 'Women Who Lead' Honorees Named. At this November's Women Who Lead luncheon, five women media executives are being honored by the Alliance for Women in Media at the Marriott Marquis in New York City. The event "recognizes and celebrates women who have had a significant impact on the media industry, as trailblazers and extraordinary leaders in their chosen field." This year's honorees are: Caroline Beasley, CEO, Beasley Broadcast Group; Amy Emmerich, chief content officer, Refinery29; Kathleen Finch, chief programming, content & brand officer, Scripps Networks; Susan Swain, co-CEO, C-SPAN; and Julie Talbott, president, Premiere Networks. For more information about the event or to reserve your seat, click here.
Trump Tax Reform Plan, Roy Moore Victory, NFL Protests, Cost of Illegal Immigration, Puerto Rico Devastation, ObamaCare Repeal Efforts, Hugh Hefner Dies, Rick Pitino Corruption Case, MLB Playoff Push, and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (9/27). The outline of President Trump's tax reform plan and his speech promoting the effort in Indianapolis; controversial former judge Roy Moore wins the GOP primary in the Alabama U.S. Senate race; ongoing debate over NFL players protesting during the singing of the national anthem; the FAIR study concluding illegal immigration costs taxpayers almost $116 billion per year; the lack of power, potable water and food in Hurricane Maria-stricken Puerto Rico; the efforts by the GOP to repeal the Affordable Care Act with the Graham-Cassidy Bill; Playboy founder Hugh Hefner dies at age 91; the federal investigation into corruption in Louisville basketball coach Rick Pitino's program; the final week of the regular season in Major League Baseball; and NFL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Cool News Radio Opportunity. WNRP seeks a morning drive news anchor/reporter. "NewsRadio1620 ▪ FM92.3" in Pensacola, Florida has an immediate opening for an experienced AM drive radio news anchor. Join the team that local newspaper readers have twice voted "Best Morning Show." Includes news on sister station "CatCountry98.7." Strong writer, fast audio producer, conversational style, plus a passion for local news gathering. Seven Edward R. Murrow awards for local news coverage. FOX Radio News affiliate. Independent and locally owned. Excellent employee benefits, including 401k plan and health/dental/vision insurance. Great lifestyle near beaches in NW Florida panhandle. EOE. Send audio with resume here.
Clive Davis Visits 'Jonesy's Jukebox.' Music biz legend Clive Davis visited Cumulus Media's classic rock KLOS, Los Angeles on Tuesday (9/26) to chat with "Jonsey's Jukebox" host Steve Jones about his new documentary film, Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives, that opened in LA at Cinerama Dome/ArcLight Hollywood. From KLOS, Davis also spoke with Matt Pinfield for "Flashback"; with WKQX, Chciago's Brian & Lou; and WLS-AM, Chicago's Bob Sirott and Marianne Murciano. Pictured above are (from l-r): Evan Saxon of film distributor Abramorama, Davis, Jonesy, and film and music promoter Elliot Kendall. Photo: Mark "Mr. Shovel" Sovel.
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Baltimore, rock programming pro Steve Huber moves from Hearst Communications' WIYY "98Rock" to Times-Shamrock's crosstown classic rocker WZBA "100.7 The Bay." The move lifts him from assistant PD to program director and takes effect on October 2. WZBA general manager Jefferson Ward states, "We had a tremendous response to our open PD position and I had the chance to talk to a number of excellent programmers, people that might have easily been hired had Steve not come into our picture. Steve is deeply passionate about radio and has a broad and strong skill set. Those qualities along with his understanding of radio's opportunities today and his vision about where radio can go made Steve a perfect fit for '100.7 The Bay.'"…..Alternative rock WRMR, Wilmington, North Carolina "Modern Rock 98.7" names Laura Lee program director and afternoon drive host. Sunrise Broadcasting sought to replace Paul Cannell, who exited last month to join Cumulus Media's New Orleans operations. Lee was most recently with Adams Radio Group where she handled promotions director duties in Salisbury-Ocean City in addition to programming classic rock WGBG "BIG 98.5" and serving as music director and midday personality…..As reported in Billboard, Apple is now saying that it has hit the 30 million paid subscribers mark. That compares with Spotify's 60 million paid subscribers. Neither service offers a free tier as do Pandora and iHeartRadio. The story notes that income from the service is part of Apple's larger Services segment that reported third quarter 2017 revenue of $7.3 billion, a year-over-year increase of 22%…..Superadio Networks announces an affiliation and sales agreement with Marvin Sapp's Praise Place, LLC to syndicate his eponymous weekly Gospel radio show. All affiliate and national advertising sales will be handled by Superadio and American Urban Radio Networks.
Wednesday, August 2, 2017
CBS News Radio and Skyview Partner. Another big network news deal for Skyview Networks after the company announced its renewed deal with ABC Radio last week. This partnership with CBS News Radio for distribution, inventory management and sales begins on January 1 of 2018. A press statement says, "The new exclusive multi-year agreement will enable CBS News Radio to further strengthen its direct relationship with its prominent family of affiliated stations and control its affiliate relations, marketing, sales, distribution and best-in-class technology in-house." Skyview president Ken Thiele says, "We are proud to forge a new partnership with CBS News Radio. This agreement powers CBS News Radio on sales and broadcast distribution operations to provide the finest and most accessible experience for affiliates, listeners and advertisers." CBS News CFO Charles Pavlounis adds, "Our new agreement with Skyview Networks will strengthen our distribution and advertising sales efforts. This collaboration will assure our 30 million weekly listeners that they will continue to get the highest level of quality journalism they are accustomed to, while also providing for new opportunities for growth." CBS News Radio is currently distributed by Westwood One.
Urban One Q2 Net Revenue Down 4.1%. Citing net revenue of $117.6 million during the second quarter of 2017, Urban One – formerly Radio One – reports that figure represents a decrease of 4.1% compared to the same period a year ago. Breaking it down, the company says broadcast and digital operating income was approximately $41.8 million, a decrease of 14.6% from the same period in 2016. Operating income was approximately $12.1 million for the quarter, compared to $27.7 million for the same period in 2016. Urban One CEO and president Alfred C. Liggins, III, says, "Our radio broadcasting revenues improved sequentially from Q1, and also within the quarter itself with June being up 2.3% vs 2017. According to Miller Kaplan, we outperformed our markets by 190Bps in June, which is encouraging. This sequential improvement looks likely to continue for Q3, which is currently pacing (–2.9%). Reach Media continued to experience a soft marketplace for multi-cultural network advertising spend, which was somewhat offset by the success of their Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage cruise. TV One experienced soft ratings, which resulted in a 5.9% decline in net advertising revenues for the quarter. We still believe that TV One will achieve the Adjusted EBITDA guidance of $82-84 million provided on the last earnings call, driven by improved affiliate revenues projected for H2. Our digital segment revenues benefitted from the acquisition of the Bossip and Madame Noire brands, and we have continued to invest in short-form video and data analytics which should help drive long-term growth for our digital businesses."
WFLA, Tampa Morning Co-Host Tedd Webb Recovering from Heart Attack. Officials at iHeartMedia Tampa are not saying how long they expect morning personality Tedd Webb to be away from the microphone but station manager David Bell tells the Tampa Bay Times, "We want him to do what is best for him." Webb – who co-hosts the AM drive show on news/talk WFLA-AM with Jack Harris – has a history of heart issues. He had a quadruple bypass in 1999 and has since battled congestive heart failure, according to the Times piece. Read it here.
Dean Canter Named SVP of National Sales for PodcastOne. Media sales pro Dean Canter joins PodcastOne as SVP of national sales. Canter will "oversee all regional sales offices for the company, in addition to developing strategic initiatives, innovating new advertiser opportunities, and driving industry trends in the rapidly growing podcast market." PodcastOne executive chairman and founder Norm Pattiz says, "It's rare to find someone with an extensive radio background who understands podcasting as well as Dean does. Working with Kit Gray, Greg Batusic, and our existing management team and sales force, Dean brings history and an uncanny appreciation of the medium that fits perfectly with our expansion."
Entercom New Orleans Market Manager Chris Claus to Retire. Thirty-five-year broadcasting pro Chris Claus will retire from his current position as vice president and market manager for Entercom's New Orleans cluster on August 31. Claus has been in this position with Entercom since 2007. Entercom president of sales Deborah Kane says, "Chris championed New Orleans during the critical post-Katrina period, during Hurricane Gustav in 2008 and throughout the Deepwater Horizon/BP Oil spill in 2010. Chris' engaging style of management, his unwavering professionalism and his heart has made an indelible imprint on Entercom employees and the community at large." Claus says, "I am grateful for these 10 years in the New Orleans cluster working with exceptional colleagues and being a part of this great community. I had a wonderful experience and now I look forward to spending time with my family."
TALKERS News Notes. TVNewser reports the July ratings for the cable news/talk channels and notes that MSNBC "finished No. 1 across cable news in weekday prime time among viewers from the ad-friendly A25-54 demographic as well as in the younger A18-49 demo." MSNBC's Rachel Maddow finished the month #1 across all demos – A18-49, A25-54, and total viewers. Although MSNBC was tops A25-54 in prime time (8:00 pm to 11:00 pm) for the month, Fox News Channel maintained its #1 standing among all viewers…..In Denver, former college and pro football star Mike Pritchard joins the KKFN-FM "Sports Radio 104.3 The Fan" staff as a contributor. Pritchard will also co-host the "Pritchard and Cecil" program alongside Cecil Lammey weekdays from 9:00 am to 10:00 am, starting August 16. Pritchard most recently co-hosted a show on Lotus Broadcasting's KWWN, Las Vegas "1100 ESPN." He's also been doing color commentary for UNLV football…..American Urban Radio Networks elevates Lenore Williams to SVP/affiliate operations and compliance. Williams began her career as traffic manager with one of AURN's owned-and-operated stations. Since 2006, she's been VP of affiliate operations and compliance…..Yesterday (8/1), Ken Lormand celebrated his 18th year with Salem Radio Network as managing editor and Washington bureau chief.
Congressional Health Care Hearings, Trump West Wing Changes, North Korea Nuke Threats, Sessions Opioid Crisis Speech, Maduro's Venezuelan Dictatorship, Seth Rich Story Lawsuit, Peanut Butter Jailbreak, MLB Action, and NFL Training Camps Open Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (8/1). The Senate agrees to hold bi-partisan health care hearings on fate of Affordable Care Act; the various changes in the Trump Administration's West Wing, including the exit of Anthony Scaramucci and Reince Priebus and the arrival of new Chief of Staff John Kelly; North Korea's nuclear threats and the U.S.' military options; Attorney General Jeff Sessions' scheduled speech in Ohio today addressing the nation's opioid crisis; the U.S.'s response to Nicolas Maduro's ruling of Venezuela; Fox News and the White House alleged to conspire in creating Seth Rich-Wikileaks connection in private investigator's lawsuit; Alabama cons escape prison using peanut butter; Major League Baseball action; and NFL training camps underway among top news/talk stories yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
TALKERS 2017 Convention Videos Continue Posting Today (8/2) with luncheon address by Salem Radio Network host Joe Walsh (with introduction by Phil Boyce). The entire agenda of the recent Talkers 2017: A New Era national talk media convention has been video recorded and its sessions are being posted to Talkers.com – one event per day. Already posted are:
– The "Welcoming Remarks" by WMAL, Washington, DC afternoon drive host Larry O' Connor (including an introduction by TalkersRadio GM David Bernstein).
– The special presentation "You HAVE Options" by consultant Holland Cooke (including an introduction by Yappy Days author Bernadette Duncan).
– The "Fireside Chat" between TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison and Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel host Sean Hannity (with introduction by Westwood One host Jim Bohannon).
– The "Fireside Chat" between TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian and WFAN, New York sports talk show host Mike Francesa (with introduction by Sabo Media CEO Walter Sabo).
– The special presentation "The Trump Effect: Latest Research of Interest to News/Talk Radio" by Salem Radio Network SVP Phil Boyce (with introduction by Pioneer Valley Radio GM/host Brad Shepard).
– The special presentation "Podcasting and Local Radio" by PodcastOne excutive chairman Norm Pattiz (with introduction by Hubbard Radio SVP/programming Greg Strassell).
– The first, second and third in a series of three consecutive "one-on-one" sessions discussing the topic "Maximizing Talk Radio's Multi-Platform Potential for Reach and Revenue" featuring conversations between WABC, New York, PD Craig Schwalb and KGO, San Francisco host Ethan Bearman, Bold Gold Media Group president/CEO Vince Benedetto and DGital Media managing partner Ron Hartenbaum, and nationally syndicated host Dr. Asa Andrew and TalkersRadio GM David Bernstein. All three sessions are facilitated by Sirius/XM Satellite Radio host Karen Hunter.
– A "one-on-one" dialogue titled "Radio That Makes a Difference" featuring the SiriusXM Satellite Radio husband/wife team of host Joe Madison and executive producer Sharon Madison (introduced by Sirius/XM Satellite Radio VP/GM talk programming Dave Gorab).
– A "Fireside Chat" featuring former CBS Radio president/CEO and Broadcasters Foundation of America chairman Dan Mason being interviewed by WPGG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley (with introduction by BOB-FM, London morning host Graham Mack).
– A "Fireside Chat" featuring Emmis Communications CEO/chairman Jeff Smulyan being interviewed by TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey (with an introduction by Bentley University professor/TALKERS legal editor Steve Weisman).
– The series of four "one-on-one" dialogues titled "The Challenges of Doing Talk Radio in 2017." They feature a conversation between WYD Media syndicated host Thom Hartmann and Cumulus Media corporate PD/WMAL, Washington PD Bill Hess(introduced by Moceri Media president Greg Moceri), a conversation between morning co-host of WAQY-FM (Rock102), Springfield, MA Mike "Bax" Baxendale and morning host of WOLB, Baltimore Larry Young, and a conversation between Cumulus Media EVP programming and content Mike McVay and Premiere Networks president Julie Talbott (facilitated by ABC News Radio VP/GM Steve Jones).
– The series of four "one-on-one" dialogues collectively titled, "Where Does Talk Media Go From Here?" featuring a conversation between WRHU, Hofstra University OM John T. Mullen and WRFH, Hillsdale College GM Scot Bertram; a conversation between The New Normal CEO/founder/host Tom Leykis and syndicated host Michael Berry; a conversation between The Weiss AgencyEVP Heather Cohen and Fox News Radio/Fox News Channel host Brian Kilmeade; and a conversation between WPHT, Philadelphia host Dom Giordano and GCN syndicated host Dr. Daliah Wachs (facilitated by WOR, New York APD Scott Lakefield). At the conclusion, Dr. Wachs is presented the TALKERS "Humanitarian of the Year" award by Michael Harrison.
– Three memorial tributes by Westwood One host Jim Bohannon dedicated to major talk show personalities and longtimeTALKERS Convention participants who passed away this past year: Tom Marr, Dr. Joy Browne and Alan Colmes. (Introduction by Stephan Multimedia CEO/host, Doug Stephan.)
– Presentation of the 2017 "Woman of the Year" award to Cumulus Media president/CEO Mary Berner by TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison.
– TODAY (8/2) we post the special luncheon greeting by Salem Radio Network syndicated host Joe Walsh (with introduction by SRN VP Phil Boyce).
Within the following days, every session will be posted and will remain on Talkers.com for the rest of the year. The Talkers 2017: A New Era video page is sponsored by Backbone Networks, Broadcasters General Store and Comrex Corp. To view the video page of Talkers 2017: A New Era, please click here.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Rock programmer Mat Bates is the new program director at Cumulus Media's San Francisco triple A KFOG. Most recently Bates was with Pandora as head of programming – rock formats. He'd also served with Rdio as global head of music and curation; as senior manager/radio programming with Slacker; and at KXTE, Las Vegas; XETRA, San Diego and more. Cumulus Media San Francisco vice president and market manager Justin Wittmayer says, "Mat Bates is poised to take the Bay Area's most indelible rock brand – KFOG – into the future with his unique professional background and successes marrying broadcast radio with digital platforms. He lives the format, is well connected in the Bay Area, and brings a new mindset to KFOG. Mat will work with the KFOG team to bring rock's past and future together in a powerful alchemy that listeners and advertisers will respond to in a big way." Bates adds, "I've spent the last decade applying the best parts of broadcast radio to emerging digital platforms. I'm really excited to now take the things that music tech does well and apply those to such a legendary and beloved radio station. KFOG already has all the necessary pieces; it's up to us to assemble them correctly now."…..In Milwaukee, market radio pro Wes McKane is let go by Entercom where he was co-hosting the morning drive program with Elizabeth Kay on hot AC WMYX. McKane wrote on Facebook, "Today I close a long chapter in my life. After almost 16 years at '103.7 KISS FM' and '99.1 The Mix' I am no longer with the company. I accept that my former management had to make a difficult decision. I got a chance to work with some of the best radio personalities in the industry with Rahny, Riggs, Elizabeth Kay, David Stein, other personalities, sales staff, promotions, business office and management."…..It's official in Atlanta as Cox Media Group CHR WSB-FM "B98.5" names Charly Morgan midday personality. CMG Atlanta director of branding and programming Chris Eagan says, "I've been listening to Charly on WNGC for years – her sound, personality and style are a perfect fit for 'B98.5.' She's warm, friendly, and fun on the air and off, a great addition to our Atlanta team."…..CBS RADIO adult contemporary outlet KYKY, San Diego announces the addition of the "AJ Mornings" program – featuring AJ Machado and Sara Perry – starting August 7. KYKY program director Chris Patyk comments, "We're super excited about this new morning show and have been looking forward to making this announcement. AJ's been waking up San Diego for 17 years and counting. The addition of Sara – who has logged nearly the same amount of time on the air – will make the new KYKY morning show an exciting and fresh way for our listeners to start their day."…..The "Sunday Night Blues Room," featuring long time radio veteran Steve Pringle, returns to the Portland airwaves on Entercom's classic rock KGON. Program director Chris Crowley says of the 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm show, "The 'Sunday Night Blues Room' began on KGON and it's only fitting that we host it once again. The addition of the show and host Steve Pringle only serve to prove that KGON is committed to our community and committed to playing the greatest music ever recorded."
Tuesday, August 1, 2017
Dr. Ron Paul Guests on This Week's Harrison Podcast. Former congressman and three-time former presidential candidate, Dr. Ron Paul is this week's guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series "Up Close and Far Out with Michael Harrison." Now in his early 80s and still going strong, he served almost a quarter-century in Congress representing Texas's 22nd district between 1976 and 1977 and then again between 1979 and 1985. He later represented Texas's 14th district from 1997 to 2013. He is a three-time, former candidate for the presidency of the United States running as the Libertarian Party's nominee in 1988 and later as a candidate for the Republican nomination in 2008 and 2012. Paul is a medical doctor who served as a flight surgeon in the US Air Force. Harrison questions Paul about some of his disagreements with many of the GOP's policies as well as those of the Democrats that include fiscal issues, such as the Federal Reserve, tax policy, foreign interventionism, the war on drugs, and mass surveillance. They also talk about his son, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), and his recent candidacy for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination. To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the "Up Close and Far Out" player box located in the right-hand column on every page of Talkers.com.
Bloomberg to Buy Suburban Boston AM and Translator. WNBP-AM is licensed to Newburyport, Massachusetts on the North Shore of the Boston metro, as is its translator W291CC at 106.1 FM. Effective today (8/1), Bloomberg Radio begins operating the station, airing business and financial news content from Bloomberg Radio. At the same time, Bloomberg enters into a deal to buy the station from Port Broadcasting. Bloomberg Radio and Television global head Al Mayers says, "We are excited to extend our broadcast footprint in the Boston market. Programming this station in Newburyport gives us the opportunity to provide timely financial information and world news to our listeners during their commute to and from the North Shore. Over the next few weeks, technical upgrades will be completed to make the experience even better." Previously, Bloomberg and Beasley struck a deal to air Bloomberg Radio programming on suburban Boston signals WRCA, Watertown, Massachusetts and its translator W291CZ at 106.1 FM.
New Leadership Atop CBS News Radio. The retirement of longtime CBS News Radio general manager Constance Lloyd after 17 years in the post prompts two promotions in the organization. CBS News Radio names Craig Swagler general manager, in which he'll oversee the business operations and editorial direction, and Linda Coombs rises to director of operations, in which she'll run the day-to-day and personnel management. Both report to CBS News SVP Ingrid Ciprian-Matthews. Coombs has worked at CBS for more than 30 years producing breaking news, coordinating special events, and staffing the copy and assignment desks. Swagler has been with the company for 16 years, since 2013 he's been overseeing the editorial content and management of the network's morning hour broadcasts, including the "World News Roundup."
TALKERS News Notes. Today in Washington, DC, Salem Radio Network talk host Dennis Prager is addressing the Young America's Foundation's 39th annual National Conservative Student Conference at George Washington University. Prager will address hundreds of college students from 34 states and more than 120 schools. Other speakers will include Vice President Mike Pence, HUD Secretary Ben Carson, and former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich. Prager is originating his syndicated talk show from Hillsdale College's Kirby Center radio studio…..Joining Westwood One's sales ranks are sales pros Linda Ramsey and Jean Ferrari. Ramsey joins the company as vice president, strategic partnership, Midwest sales, based in Detroit. Ferrari becomes director, national partnerships, based in New York. Ramsey was most recently with Atlantic Media Company. Ferrari joins from PodcastOne…..There's been a three-year deal struck between NPR's unionized staff and SAG-AFTRA. Both sides say in a joint statement, "NPR and SAG-AFTRA have shared a long and productive relationship throughout the years. This was evident in the recent negotiations, as NPR and SAG-AFTRA's bargaining teams worked tirelessly and constructively to find common ground. Today NPR and SAG-AFTRA together celebrate the tremendous talents of NPR's news and programming teams and look forward to supporting NPR's mission and service to the American public."…..The 17th annual WSB Care-a-Thon raised a record $1.75 million-plus for Aflac Cancer & Blood Disorders Center of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. The Cox Media Group news/talk station's two-day event ran from 5:00 am on July 27 to 6:00 pm on the 28th. WSB manager of program operations and community affairs Condace Pressley states, "Seventeen years ago, we were introduced to the lifesaving work happening at the Aflac Cancer Center. WSB shared those amazing stories with our listeners and their response has been overwhelming. To raise a record-setting $1,750,000 shows the power radio can have for good in the local community." Local personalities participating in the Care-a-Thon included: Scott Slade, Clark Howard, Herman Cain, Neal Boortz, Erick Erickson, Eric Von Haessler and Mark Arum…..SiriusXM announces the launch of a new show featuring well-known British intellectual Noreena Hertz, called "MegaHertz: London Calling." The live show will debut on August 28 from London at 1:00 pm ET. Hertz is joining SiriusXM as its first foreign-based host for news and talk programming and will serve as chief Europe correspondent across all talk radio channels. Hertz comments, "The world has never been more vibrant, complex and controversial. I have plenty to say about the big topics affecting us all and will be inviting an eclectic and energetic mix of guests to debate them with me here in the UK and our listeners across America."…..Nationally syndicated talk show host Dr. Daliah Wachs is pictured here (right) with celebrity chef Robert Irvine (left) at the opening of his new restaurant in Las Vegas Public House. Wachs tells TALKERS magazine, "We were able to hang with him opening week and the food and service were amazing – especially the Shepherd's Pie!"….."Success Journal" host Chris Witting launches a podcast version of his long-running radio show. "Success Journal" airs on more than 100 affiliate stations and has been in syndication for 20-plus years. Witting comments, "Radio is our primary focus but our podcast is reaching a new set of listeners. And the podcast audience growth we're seeing is gratifying."
Trump Fires Scaramucci/John Kelly New Chief of Staff, Fate of ObamaCare, North Korea Nuclear Threats, Maduro Cracks Down in Venezuela, #NoConfederate Campaign, Rising Dow, Sam Shepard Dies, MLB Action and NFL Camps Open Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/31). After 11 days on the job, President Trump fires White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci, and the related naming of John Kelly as Chief of Staff; ongoing efforts by Republicans to repeal the Affordable Care Act and pass a GOP-authored health care plan; North Korea's nuclear threats and intelligence about its heightened submarine activity; the U.S. puts sanctions on Venezuela as Nicolas Maduro rounds up political opponents in the wake of disputed election results; the campaign against HBO's planned series "Confederate" that explores an alternate history with the South seceding from the Union; the still rising U.S. financial markets; actor and playwright Sam Shepard dies; Major League Baseball action, and the opening of NFL camps were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
TALKERS 2017 Convention Videos Continue Posting Today (8/1) with Presentation of the "Woman of the Year" award to Cumulus Media President/CEO Mary Berner. The entire agenda of the recent Talkers 2017: A New Era national talk media convention has been video recorded and its sessions are being posted to Talkers.com – one event per day. Already posted are:
– The "Welcoming Remarks" by WMAL, Washington, DC afternoon drive host Larry O' Connor (including an introduction by TalkersRadio GM David Bernstein).
– The special presentation "You HAVE Options" by consultant Holland Cooke (including an introduction by Yappy Days author Bernadette Duncan).
– The "Fireside Chat" between TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison and Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel host Sean Hannity (with introduction by Westwood One host Jim Bohannon).
– The "Fireside Chat" between TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian and WFAN, New York sports talk show host Mike Francesa (with introduction by Sabo Media CEO Walter Sabo).
– The special presentation "The Trump Effect: Latest Research of Interest to News/Talk Radio" by Salem Radio Network SVP Phil Boyce (with introduction by Pioneer Valley Radio GM/host Brad Shepard).
– The special presentation "Podcasting and Local Radio" by PodcastOne excutive chairman Norm Pattiz (with introduction by Hubbard Radio SVP/programming Greg Strassell).
– The first, second and third in a series of three consecutive "one-on-one" sessions discussing the topic "Maximizing Talk Radio's Multi-Platform Potential for Reach and Revenue" featuring conversations between WABC, New York, PD Craig Schwalb and KGO, San Francisco host Ethan Bearman, Bold Gold Media Group president/CEO Vince Benedetto and DGital Media managing partner Ron Hartenbaum, and nationally syndicated host Dr. Asa Andrew and TalkersRadio GM David Bernstein. All three sessions are facilitated by Sirius/XM Satellite Radio host Karen Hunter.
– A "one-on-one" dialogue titled "Radio That Makes a Difference" featuring the SiriusXM Satellite Radio husband/wife team of host Joe Madison and executive producer Sharon Madison (introduced by Sirius/XM Satellite Radio VP/GM talk programming Dave Gorab).
– A "Fireside Chat" featuring former CBS Radio president/CEO and Broadcasters Foundation of America chairman Dan Mason being interviewed by WPGG, Atlantic City morning host Harry Hurley (with introduction by BOB-FM, London morning host Graham Mack).
– A "Fireside Chat" featuring Emmis Communications CEO/chairman Jeff Smulyan being interviewed by TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey (with an introduction by Bentley University professor/TALKERS legal editor Steve Weisman).
– The series of four "one-on-one" dialogues titled "The Challenges of Doing Talk Radio in 2017." They feature a conversation between WYD Media syndicated host Thom Hartmann and Cumulus Media corporate PD/WMAL, Washington PD Bill Hess(introduced by Moceri Media president Greg Moceri), a conversation between morning co-host of WAQY-FM (Rock102), Springfield, MA Mike "Bax" Baxendale and morning host of WOLB, Baltimore Larry Young, and a conversation between Cumulus Media EVP programming and content Mike McVay and Premiere Networks president Julie Talbott (facilitated by ABC News Radio VP/GM Steve Jones).
– The series of four "one-on-one" dialogues collectively titled, "Where Does Talk Media Go From Here?" featuring a conversation between WRHU, Hofstra University OM John T. Mullen and WRFH, Hillsdale College GM Scot Bertram; a conversation between The New Normal CEO/founder/host Tom Leykis and syndicated host Michael Berry; a conversation between The Weiss AgencyEVP Heather Cohen and Fox News Radio/Fox News Channel host Brian Kilmeade; and a conversation between WPHT, Philadelphia host Dom Giordano and GCN syndicated host Dr. Daliah Wachs (facilitated by WOR, New York APD Scott Lakefield). At the conclusion, Dr. Wachs is presented the TALKERS "Humanitarian of the Year" award by Michael Harrison.
– Three memorial tributes by Westwood One host Jim Bohannon dedicated to major talk show personalities and longtimeTALKERS Convention participants who passed away this past year: Tom Marr, Dr. Joy Browne and Alan Colmes. (Introduction by Stephan Multimedia CEO/host, Doug Stephan.)
– TODAY (8/1) we posted the presentation of the 2017 "Woman of the Year" award to Cumulus Media president/CEO Mary Berner by TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison.
Within the following days and weeks, every session will be posted and will remain on Talkers.com for the rest of the year. The Talkers 2017: A New Era video page is sponsored by Backbone Networks, Broadcasters General Store and Comrex Corp. To view the video page of Talkers 2017: A New Era, please click here.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Allentown market adult contemporary WLEV announces Kevin Crockett joins the station to serve as co-host of the morning drive "Selena and Crockett" program. Crockett joins Cumulus Media from his most recent position as executive producer of "The Breakfast Club" on WOGL, Philadelphia. WLEV program director Jerry Padden says, "I am extremely excited to welcome Kevin to the Cumulus team. From the time that he and Selena first met, the fireworks went off. I'm sure that our current and new LEV listeners will feel the same way."…..Beasley Media Group names Steve Mills program director classic hits WDRR, Augusta, Georgia. Mills was most recently with Cumulus Media's Sound Solutions as a producer. Beasley Augusta operations manager Chris O'Kelley says, "We are extremely excited to welcome Steve to the Beasley Augusta team and look forward to Steve bringing his multi-format and digital experience to WDRR's classic hits format."…..Entercom tweaks KXSN, San Diego from a soft AC format to classic hits as "Sunny 98.1!"…..The Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio Group announces that Roula Christie, host of the "Roula and Ryan" show on Cumulus Media's CHR KRBE, Houston, is named the 2017 MIW Airblazer, an honor bestowed by MIW annually to a deserving on-air personality in radio broadcasting. MIW Group spokeswoman Denyse Mesnik says, "Roula is a consummate MIW Airblazer. She professionally navigates responsibilities that are unique to a morning show, while contributing to her hometown community and, most importantly, as a working mom raising three young children. We look for leadership and a selfless understanding of giving back in our Airblazer honoree. Roula leads by example and serves as a reminder to Houston listeners, and frankly to all of us in radio, that the true power behind a radio microphone lies in establishing genuine emotional connections with the people and communities we serve."
Jason Bailey Emcees BB&T Atlanta Open. WNNX, Atlanta "Rock 100.5 FM" morning personality Jason Bailey – of the "Bailey and Southside" show – was the stadium voice of the just-concluded BB&T Atlanta Open tennis tournament. Bailey also emceed a Venus Williams vs Genie Bouchard exhibition match. To kick off the tournament, Bailey, an avid tennis player himself, challenged his listeners to guess how many points he could score in a 10-point, tie-breaker match with professional tennis player, Taylor Fritz. The winning listener received VIP seats for the semi-finals. Pictured here are (from l-r): Genie Bouchard, Bailey, BB&T regional president Heath Campbell, and Venus Williams.
Thursday, July 6, 2017
Kagan: WGN-AM, Chicago Valued at $58.4 Million. Media analysis firm Kagan, now an offering of S&P Global Market Intelligence, issues a report on the volume of mergers and acquisitions in the U.S. broadcasting market during the second quarter of this year and concludes that Tribune Media's news/talk WGN-AM, Chicago is worth $58.4 million. Tribune Media – the television stations and sole radio property – is being acquired by Sinclair Broadcast Group and WGN-AM will become one of just four stations owned by the TV giant. The others are Seattle properties hot AC KPLZ, all-news KOMO-AM/FM, and news/talk KVI. The Kagan report focuses largely on television deals but also reports on Emmis' sale of KPWR, Los Angeles and notes Saga Communications' exiting the TV business with its sale of television assets to Morgan Murphy Media. See the report here.
Newsmax Granted White House Briefing Room Seat. The Boca Raton, Florida-based conservative news organization was one of three to be granted a designated, permanent seat in the White House briefing room by the White House Correspondents' Association. Newsmax joins Westwood One and Britain's The Daily Mail in gaining the coveted full seat that puts the organizations on equal footing with outlets such as the Washington Post, Fox News and MSNBC. Newsmax Media CEO Christopher Ruddy says, "This is truly an honor to be selected by our journalistic peers for this privilege. It testifies to Newsmax's strong news brand and our enormous reach." Reuters staffer Jeff Mason serves as WHCA president and he says, "The board considered multiple criteria during this decision-making process, including regular briefing attendance and commitment to the White House beat. We did not want scarce real estate going unused. We also looked at news outlets' audiences, both in terms of reach and in terms of preserving (or in some cases adding) diversity in the briefing room. We took stock of the changing landscape of our industry."
Gilbert to Host Night Show on 'Real Talk KGX' in Palm Springs. Coachella Valley radio personality Marshall Gilbert is joining Desert Broadcasters' news/talk KKGX, Palm Springs "Real Talk KGX" to host the nightly 7:00 – 9:00 program, beginning Monday (7/10). Gilbert has been a presence on the radio in the market for the past 23 years. Station GM Garry Wing comments, "He's been an integral voice in talk radio in the desert for more than two decades and we're delighted that he's chosen to join KGX as we continue to build on the notion that talk radio can be entertaining, compelling and interesting, without the anger, yelling and fake outrage that has permeated the airwaves for years." The station notes that Gilbert learned a lot about local politics from his mentor Sonny Bono, serving as his campaign manager, and later as a member of the Palm Springs Airport Commission.
TALKERS News Notes. Well-known talk radio consultant Walter Sabo has for some time been dabbling first hand in the on-air aspect of the business, hosting a Sunday evening talk program on CBS RADIO's WPHT, Philadelphia as Walter Sterling. Now, Mr. Sterling will be testing the waters of nationally syndicated radio as he fills in for Westwood One's Jim Bohannon next Monday and Tuesday (7/10-11)…..Sports media pro Rock Riley is now the afternoon drive host on Genesis Communications' Florida spots talk duo WHBO, Tampa and WHOO, Orlando – collectively branded SportsTalkFlorida. Riley is a former Bright House sports television personality who was with the network for 18 years…..With its new relationship with Fishnet Syndication full steam ahead, Dave Graveline begins offering a daily, consumer tech tips feature to radio stations. It's called, "Into Tomorrow Daily with Dave Graveline," and the program launches on Monday (7/10). Graveline says, "We give an entertaining and informative glimpse about consumer tech in a short, 60-second vignette every weekday. It's kind of a condensed version of our weekly, three-hour weekend show that's been on the air for 22 years!"…..In the wake of the controversy surrounding CNN's decision to seek out the creator of the Trump vs CNN wrestling video and allegations the news organization is blackmailing that person, the Melanie Morgan/Brian Maloney-operated Media Equality Project is demanding CNN terminate reporter Andrew Kaczynski. His "KFile" project is responsible for tracking down the creator of the video that President Trump tweeted. The Media Equality Project is encouraging supporters to contact CNN advertisers to let them know they won't support their products until Kaczynski is gone.
TALKERS 2017 Convention Videos Continue Posting Today (7/6) with Norm Pattiz Podcasting Presentation. The entire agenda of the recent Talkers 2017: A New Era national talk media convention has been video recorded and its sessions are being posted to Talkers.com – one event per day. Already posted are the "Welcoming Remarks" by WMAL, Washington, DC afternoon drive host Larry O' Connor (including an introduction by TalkersRadio GM David Bernstein); the special presentation "You HAVE Options" by consultant Holland Cooke (including an introduction by Yappy Days author Bernadette Duncan); the "Fireside Chat" between TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison and Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel host Sean Hannity (with introduction by Westwood One host Jim Bohannon); the "Fireside Chat" between TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian and WFAN, New York sports talk show host Mike Francesa (with introduction by Sabo Media CEO Walter Sabo) and the special presentation "The Trump Effect: Latest Research of Interest to News/Talk Radio" by Salem Radio Network SVP Phil Boyce (with introduction by Pioneer Valley Radio GM/host Brad Shepard). Posted today (7/6) is the special presentation "Podcasting and Local Radio" by PodcastOne excutive chairman Norm Pattiz (with introduction by Hubbard Radio SVP/programming Greg Strassell). Within the following days and weeks, every session will be posted and will remain on Talkers.com for the rest of the year. The Talkers 2017: A New Era video page is sponsored by Backbone Networks, Broadcasters General Store and Comrex Corp. To view the video page of Talkers 2017: A New Era, please click here.
NAB to Honor David Field with National Radio Award. At the Radio Luncheon at this year's 2017 Radio Show in Austin on September 6, Entercom Communications president and CEO David Field will be presented with the National Radio Award. NAB executive vice president John David says, "David's passion for radio and his business savvy have led Entercom to new heights. We look forward to recognizing him for his continuous dedication and significant contributions to the business."
North Korea ICBM Test-Trump Warning, CNN-Trump Wrestling Video Blowback, NPR-Declaration of Independence Flap, Trump Antietam Donation, NYC Cop Slain, Trump Visits Poland, Violent Chicago Fourth Weekend, Wimbledon Matches, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/5). North Korea's successful test of an ICBM and President Donald Trump's warning to the hermit kingdom; CNN faces blowback from critics accusing the news organization of blackmailing the Reddit user who originated the Trump-CNN wrestling video; the flap over NPR's 4th of July tweeting of the Declaration of Independence and numerous critics' failure to recognize the document and calling it an incitement to violence against the president; President Trump donates his paycheck to restoration projects at Antietam battlefield; the high-profile slaying of a New York City policewoman; Trump's visit to Poland prior to this week's G20 Summit; the aftermath of Chicago's violent 4th of July weekend in which more than 100 were shot with 15 dead; the matches at the Wimbledon tournament; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Doug Gottlieb Coaches USA Team in 20th World Maccabiah Games. Pictured above is FOX Sport Radio syndicated sports talk personality Doug Gottlieb (left) with the USA Open Men's Basketball team competing at the 20th World Maccabiah Games from July 4-18 in Israel. Gottlieb is leading a team of twelve Jewish athletes, ages 18-35, at the games, which is the world's third-largest international sporting event, with more than 9,000 total participants representing 75 countries. While there, Gottlieb is broadcasting his program live from Israel. He is a three-time alumnus of Maccabi USA, having represented the United States as a member of the Open Men's Basketball Team at the 15th World Maccabiah Games in 1997, the Pan-American Maccabi Games in Mexico City in 1999, and the 16th World Maccabiah Games in 2001, winning bronze, gold and gold medals, respectively.
Former CNN Anchor Frank Sesno Guests on Harrison Podcast. Former CNN anchor, White House correspondent and Washington, DC bureau chief Frank Sesno joins host Michael Harrison as this week's guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series "Up Close and Far Out." Sesno is currently the director of the School of Media and Public Affairs at The George Washington University. He's written a new book, Ask More: The Power of Questions to Open Doors, Uncover Solutions, and Spark Change (Amacom, 2017) in which he dissects the art and importance of asking the right questions as a journalist and in everyday life. Harrison and Sesno discuss the techniques of good interviewing plus the current relationship between the White House press corps and the Donald Trump administration, as well as the profound effects that social media and digital technology are having on society. To listen to the entire podcast, please click here or click on the "Up Close and Far Out" player box located in the right-hand column on every page of Talkers.com.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. A new urban format officially launches on low-power FM KTGP, St. Louis as "Mix 99.5." According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the station is being run by SVP and operations manager Lou Thimes, Jr and features a number of well-known St. Louis radio personalities, including: Jim Gates, Niecy Davis, Tossin' Ted, Nappy DJ Needles, Calvin King, Edie B, DJ VuDu, and Darrel "EZ" Eason. Music runs the gamut from mostly classic R&B to specialty shows including gospel music, blues, jazz, old-school hip-hop and talk…..Air personality "Hot Rod" Thompson joins Entravision's country KNTY, Sacramento "101.9 The Wolf" to host the afternoon program. Thompson was most recently at Townsquare Media's country KCTR, Billings, Montana "Cat Country 102.9."
Tuesday, March 14, 2017
Washington Post Writes About the Evolving Glenn Beck. Industry watchers and regular TALKERS readers are aware of Premiere Networks syndicated talk radio star Glenn Beck's long-held distaste for President Donald Trump. Throughout the election, Beck was a Never Trumper and it was the focus of his radio show during that period. Now he's walking a difficult road of staying true to his self-described libertarian principles while expressing regret for how he conducted himself for so many years. Beck and his efforts to make amends for the things he's said and done in the past is the focus of a feature piece in the Washington Post by senior editor Marc Fisher. Not only has Beck changed how he approaches his radio and TV shows, he's going out on the road with some heretofore very unlikely company. Read the Post piece here.
Bye Partnered with Stokley on KKFN, Denver. Moving from Townsquare Media's sports talker WTMM, Albany "104.5 The Team" to Bonneville's sports KKFN, Denver "104.3 The Fan" is Zach Bye. He partners with Brandon Stokley for the 12:00 nooon to 3:00 pm "Stokley and Zach" show, effective March 31. In addition to co-hosting the "Big Board Sports" show on WTMM, Bye served for the past seven years as a play-by-play and color analyst for University of Albany sports radio broadcasts. KKFN program director Armen Williams states, "After a national search, we were thrilled to find the perfect fit for Brandon and '104.3 The Fan' in Zach.
GOP ObamaCare Alternative, Obama Wiretapping Accusations, Trump's Budget Proposal, North Korea Missile Threats, Tennessee Sues Federal Government, Northeast Snowstorm, and March Madness Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/13). The Trump Administration/GOP's alternative to the Affordable Care Act; the ongoing debate over what President Trump meant by his accusation that President Obama wiretapped the Trump Tower during the 2016 campaign; the Trump Administration's federal budget proposal and its effort to shrink Washington's administrative power; North Korea's nuclear missile program and related tensions between China and the U.S.; Tennessee sues the federal government over the latter's refugee resettlement program; the late-winter blizzard hitting the Northeast today; and the NCAA Men's Basketball tournament were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Rotella: Local Radio Is on Alert. Local radio advocate – and president and CEO of the New Jersey Broadcasters Association – Paul Rotella, is using today's winter storm affecting the Northeast to point out the positives of local, terrestrial radio – and advocate for the broad activation of the FM chip and the prevention of any Performance Tax. Read his letter to members of the NJBA and the industry here.
Alana Lynn Joins KMLE, Phoenix for Afternoons/Music Director Post. Phoenix country outlet KMLE @ 107.9 announces Alana Lynn takes over the music director and afternoon personality position at the CBS RADIO station. She assumes the duties from Bryan "B-Dub" Washington, who's exiting for new position elsewhere. CBS RADIO Phoenix VP of programming Tim Richards comments, "Alana is an amazing talent and we couldn't be more excited for her to join the KMLE family." She was most recently morning personality at Townsquare Media's classic hits KTRR, Loveland, Colorado "Tri 102.5" and midday host at sister country KUAD "K99."
Tony Russell Joins 'McKinzie & Jake' on '98.7 The Bull' in Portland. Effective Monday (3/20), radio pro Tony Russell becomes part of the KUPL, Portland "98.7 The Bull" morning drive show with current AM show personalities McKinzie Roth and Jake Byron. KUPL program director MoJoe Roberts comments, "Tony's passion for super-serving the community line up with the core values of Alpha Media. He brings a wealth of experience, a great sense of humor and is no stranger to our audience. We're thrilled to turn him loose with 'McKinzie & Jake' in mornings."
Demery to Program KINK, Portland. Radio pro Sean Demery is the new program director at Alpha Media's triple A KINK, Portland. Alpha Media VP of programming Scott Mahalick says, "Sean is a world class programmer, digital maverick, and talent coach who gets the vibe of Portland and will be dedicated full-time to the growth of KINK. We are looking forward to Sean's impact in taking us to new heights." Demery has served with stations across the country including: WNNX, Atlanta; KITS, San Francisco; KMTT, Seattle; KXRK & KLRZ, Salt Lake City; WYMS, Milwaukee; and KGGI, Riverside/San Bernardino. Demery comments, "101.9 KINK? Are you kidding? It's already a great station. I look forward to working with the crew to make it an indisputable cultural landmark. I also look forward to exploring and eating at all the cool places that have been taunting me from Sunset magazine."
KMGA, Albuquerque Names Simmons PD/PM Host; Adds Durocher to AM Show. Albuquerque adult contemporary KMGA "99.5 Magic FM" announces the addition of Bryan Simmons to the staff as program director and afternoon drive host and on-air pro Doug Durocher as morning drive co-host. Durocher pairs up with Meredith Dunkel for the "Meredith & Doug" show. Cumulus Media Albuquerque FM operations manager Brad Hansen states, "Bryan and Doug both bring an amazing track record of success and are already having a very positive impact on 'Magic' and the Albuquerque community."
iHeartRadio Music Festival Returns to Las Vegas September 22-23. The main stage acts won't be announced until a later date but iHeartMedia says its annual iHeartRadio Music Festival is back in Sin City September 22 and 23. The evening performances will happen at T-Mobile Arena. The Daytime Village, presented by Capital One, takes place on Saturday (9/23) in the Las Vegas Village across from the Luxor Hotel and Casino. Featured acts for the Daytime Village include: Flume, French Montana, Noah Cyrus, Judah & The Lion, Kelsea Ballerini, Hey Violet, and All Time Low, with more to be announced.
Monday, March 13, 2017
Townsquare Media Announces Q4 2016 Net Revenue Up 5.8%; Up 3% for 2016 on Pro Forma Basis. Those numbers are for the company as a whole. Townsquare Media breaks its quarterly financial reports into two segments: Local Marketing Solutions (including broadcast and digital products) and Entertainment (live event experiences and music and lifestyle content directly to consumers, and promotion, advertising and product activations). For the fourth quarter of 2016, Townsquare Media reports the Local Marketing Solutions segment's net revenue was $119.5 million – an increase of 5.1% on an actual basis. For all of 2016 on a pro forma basis (pro forma for the acquisition of NAME and the divestiture of 43 of its towers on September 1, 2015), the segment's net revenue was $342.2 million – also up 5.1%. For the company as a whole, 2016 pro forma net revenue was $516.9 million, an increase of 3% over all of 2015. Townsquare chairman and CEO Steven Price adds, "In 2016, we delivered net revenue, net income and Adjusted EBITDA growth of 17%, 127% and 9%, respectively. On a pro forma basis, net revenue growth of 3.0% was driven by the strong performance of our local products and offerings within our Local Marketing Solutions segment, where pro forma net revenue increased 5.1% over the prior year. This year we focused on strengthening our balance sheet; through EBITDA growth and debt repayment we reduced net leverage from 5.5x at the start of the year, to 4.9x at year end."
FCC Chairman Ajit Pai to Address 2017 NAB Show. New FCC Chairman Ajit Pai will address the 2017 NAB Show at a general session on Tuesday, April 25 in Las Vegas. The address is expected to provide insight into the FCC's policy and regulatory objectives related to broadcasting, technology and communications law and regulation. Pai was appointed as an FCC Commissioner by President Obama and confirmed in May of 2012. President Trump designated him chairman in January. NAB president and CEO Gordon Smith states, "We know from his tenure as FCC commissioner that Ajit Pai believes deeply in the value of free and local broadcasting. Chairman Pai's appearance at NAB Show represents a tremendous opportunity for attendees to hear first-hand about his regulatory philosophy and priorities."
Phil Valentine Now Airing in Afternoons on KCMO-AM, Kansas City. Local talk show host Mike Ferguson is leaving the Cumulus Media station to take on the communications director role at the Show Me Institute. That opens up the 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm slot for Westwood One's Phil Valentine show to take over. In announcing the move, WW1 notes that in Valentine's home market of Nashville, Valentine "is #1 Persons 25-54 in Nashville. His show draws more listeners in his home market than Limbaugh, Hannity, and Beck combined." Commenting on joining KCMO-AM, Valentine says, "If ever there were a perfect market for our show it's Kansas City. What a heritage station! They have big plans to take this station to the top and we're thrilled to be a part of it."
Alpha Media Drops Local Morning Show on Sports Talk WMEN, West Palm Beach. The duo of Joe Raineri and Steve Zemach have exited Alpha Media's sports talk WMEN, West Palm Beach "FOX Sports 640." The station is now running the full lineup of FOX Sports Radio programming. Replacing Raineri and Zemach is the "Outkick the Coverage with Clay Travis" program.
PodcastOne Executive Chairman Norm Pattiz Guests on Harrison Podcast Tomorrow (3/14). The executive chairman of PodcastOne and noted industry pioneer, Norm Pattiz joins TALKERS founder Michael Harrison tomorrow (3/14) for an in-depth conversation about the general state of radio and podcasting on the award-winning weekly series, "Up Close and Far Out." The compelling dialogue was recorded this past Friday, inspired by the Thursday release (3/9) of the annual Edison Research/Triton Digital 2017 Infinite Dial Study. Don't miss it, posted bright and early tomorrow morning right here on Talkers.com, PodcastOne and iTunes.
Trump's Obama Wiretapping Accusations, Trump Fires Preet Bharara, GOP Health Care Plan, the "Deep State" concept, Trump-Russia Connection, North Korea Threats, NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. President Donald Trump's accusation the Obama Administration ordered the wiretapping of Trump Tower; President Trump fires U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara after Bharara refused to resign in accordance with the administration's request that he and 45 other U.S. Attorneys do so; questions about what the GOP-engineered replacement of the Affordable Care Act will entail; talk about the existence of a "Deep State" that operates the government behind the scenes; Democrats' wishes to appoint a special prosecutor to investigate the possible connection between Russian agents and the Trump campaign; the growing nuclear missile capabilities of North Korea; and the Sunday afternoon revelation of the teams making the 2017 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
TALKERS News Notes. At last week's annual Great Lakes Broadcasting Conference presented by the Michigan Association of Broadcasters, the MAB presented its 2016 broadcast excellence awards. Cumulus Media's WJR reports that it won 22 awards across numerous categories, including: 2016 Commercial Station of the Year; Best Regularly Scheduled Weekday Broadcast – The Mitch Albom Show; Best Morning Show Broadcast Personality – The Paul W. Smith Show; and Best Regularly Scheduled Weekday Broadcast Personality – The Frank Beckmann Show. WJR program director Mike Wheeler says, "We're really proud of the way the WJR team serves our audience, advertising partners and community. It is gratifying to have the MAB validate our efforts."…..Westwood One will tip off coverage of the 2017 NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Championship on Tuesday (3/14) with play-by-play coverage of all 67 games. In addition, Westwood One will broadcast the NCAA Men's Final Four on Saturday, April 1, and the National Championship Game on Monday, April 3, in both English and Spanish, live from University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Charleston, South Carolina, Cumulus Media appoints 20-year radio programming pro Kathy Brown as program director for hip hop WWWZ "93 Jamz" and urban contemporary WMGL "Magic 107.3." She comes to Cumulus from her most recent position with iHeartMedia programming hip hop KMJM "100.3 The Beat" and Gospel KATZ-AM "Hallelujah." Cumulus Media Charleston operations manager Bill West says, "Kathy is a pro and I've already been inspired by hearing her ideas for our brands here in Charleston."…..Mapleton Communications ups Jamie Patrick to program director for country KDRK, Spokane "93.7 the Mountain." Patrick host the morning show, is music director and assistant operations manager – all duties he will continue while ascending to PD…..Entercom names Lindsey Martin director of promotions for its five-station Sacramento cluster…..Cumulus brings Appleton/Oshkosh market radio pro Dan Markus aboard to host the morning drive show on its adult standards WNAM and middays on classic hits WVBO. Markus spent 17 years programming the company's Green Bay classic hits outlet WOGB…..iHeartMedia classic rock KZPS, Dallas "Lonestar 92.5" is presenting the return of the "Bo and Jim Bash VI" taking place on August 18 at Starplex Pavilion in Dallas. This annual event, presented by the station and the morning team of Bo Roberts and Jim White, will this year feature Foreigner, Cheap Trick, Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience and Stone Cold Sweat featuring Bo and Jim. KZPS program director Don Davis says, "Foreigner is coming off a sold-out show last month in Dallas and we have been after Cheap Trick since year one, so to say we are excited about this lineup would be an understatement. And if Foreigner and Cheap Trick weren't enough, I couldn't think of a better way to kick off the night than having Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin Experience and Bo and Jim's Stone Cold Sweat open the show this year."…..Beasley Media Group's Fayetteville, North Carolina hip hop WZFX "Foxy 99" adds the Premiere Networks-syndicated morning show "The Breakfast Club" – hosted by Charlamagne Tha God, Angela Yee and DJ Envy – to the station's program lineup for morning drive…..Entercom launches new urban station "Hot 103.7 FM" on translator K243AV, New Orleans. Entercom New Orleans VP and market manager Chris Claus says, "We are focused on delivering the content and music that we know listeners in New Orleans are looking for. The combination of well-known and live local talent and the R&B hits that fans want to hear on 103.7 FM is a magical one that has not been on the dial in New Orleans." Tom "Jammer" Naylor – who programs sister CHR WEZB "B97" – will serve as the program director. Urban radio pro Jay Dixon is consulting the station. On air is Abraham "Big Abe" Johnson on the "Big Abe in the Morning" program. Terrence "Terry Bello" Burton is hosting afternoon drive…..JVC Media has partnered with major Long Island retail locations and DNS publications to publish a quarterly country music newspaper called This Is Country. JVC says the free, full-color magazine will contain exclusive interviews, stories, pictures, news, album and movie reviews, up-coming events around Long Island "and other information a country music lover will not want to miss." JVC's country WJVC-FM, Center Moriches, New York "My Country 96.1" is promoting the publication that launches April 15.
Friday, February 10, 2017
PodcastOne-Commissioned Brand Lift Studies Indicate Positive Results for Advertisers. This series of comprehensive studies by Edison Research was commissioned by PodcastOne and scrutinized the results of advertising tests with five major national consumer brands across five different product and service categories. PodcastOne founder and executive chairman Norm Pattiz and Edison Research VP of strategy Tom Webster say that this is a "first-ever study of pre- and post-campaign brand lift for podcast advertisers" and was conducted over the last half of 2016. It shows "significant positive impact of podcast advertising on brand recall, intent to purchase and recall of specific messaging." Some of the key findings include: 1) More than 60% of listeners mentioned a specific grocery brand post-campaign, up from 7% among listeners in the pre-study; 2) Unaided product awareness increased from the pre-study to the post-study by 47% for a financial services product, by 37% for an automobile aftermarket product and by 24% for a lawn and garden product; 3) In the post-study, over one-third of respondents had a "very favorable" opinion of an automobile aftermarket product, up from 18% in pre-study. In the post-study, 22% said they were "very likely" to consider using a lawn and garden product, up from 16% in the pre-study; 4) Awareness of a specific campaign message for an automobile aftermarket product increased by 60% from the pre-study to the post-study, and for a casual dining restaurant by 76%. Edison says it conducted three separate studies in 2016 on behalf of PodcastOne to examine the effectiveness of podcast advertising for five national brands. Some of these brands were well known, but launching new messaging, while others were lesser-known brands looking for increased awareness and trial. Edison reports that in all cases, online surveys of the audiences of several leading podcasts were conducted before the podcast advertising campaigns ran, and again after each brand had run 4-6 weeks' worth of advertisements on those podcasts, using the same methodology in each case. The results of these pre- and post-campaign studies showed that these podcast audiences were receptive to brand messages, and showed an increased willingness to consider and/or purchase those brands. PodcastOne's Pattiz comments, "Our core focus has always been to independently verify that the podcast format provides enhanced brand impact well beyond traditional advertising formats. These results further validate our mult-tiered approach to integrated advertising and measurement."
TALKERS News Notes. After just five months on the job, it appears that radio personality Arnie States has exited Lotus' sports talker KUUB, Reno "ESPN Radio 94.5" where he hosted the 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm show. States' info has been scrubbed from the station website. States was previously one-third of the "Rob, Arnie and Dawn" show at KRXQ, Sacramento…..The nationally syndicated "America Outdoors Radio" reports three new stations joining its list of affiliate stations: KPAY, Chico, California; KZWY, Sheridan, Wyoming; and KXLE, Ellensburg, Washington. The weekly show is hosted by John Kruse and covers topics including fishing, hunting and the shooting sports.
Trump Travel Order Battle Tops Talkers TenTM. The court – and public opinion fight – over President Donald Trump's order temporarily banning travel to the U.S. from seven predominantly Muslim nations was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the confirmation hearings for Attorney General Jeff Sessions and the related rebuke of Senator Elizabeth Warren for impugning Sessions. Coming in at #3 was Democratic senators' attacks on labor secretary nominee Andrew Puzder, followed by criticism of the U.S.' Yemen raid on Islamic State targets at #4. The Talkers TenTM 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. View this week's entire chart here.
Does the Trump Era Present Fresh Opportunity for a New Chapter in Progressive Talk Media? The leading progressive talk radio host in America, Thom Hartmann, is this week's guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series "Up Close and Far Out with Michael Harrison." They discuss how the passionate galvanization of a large segment of the American public described as the "resistance" movement (to the Donald Trump administration) is sparking new opportunity for the expansion of progressive talk media. Hartmann describes the "explosion" of growth being enjoyed by his multi-platform syndicated radio and television talk shows in terms of affiliates, viewers, callers and social media traffic since the election of the 45th president. Harrison and Hartmann explore the social dynamics involved in tapping into under-served American passions erupting on all ends of the political spectrum – basically agreeing that these are extremely fertile times for news/talk radio of all political persuasions. To listen to this not-to-be-missed conversation in its entirety, please click here or click on the "Up Close and Far Out" player box located in the right-hand column on every page of Talkers.com.
Greg Solk Named PD for CBS Radio's WXRT and WJMK in Chicago. Programming pro Greg Solk has a new gig and he gets to remain in his hometown of Chicago. The former Hubbard Radio SVP of programming joins CBS Radio's crosstown station group to serve as program director and operations manager for legendary rocker WXRT and classic hits WJMK "KHits 104.3." The company says Solk "joins the Chicago team with a goal of building loyalty among KHits' engaged adult listeners while also spearheading a new era of growth at XRT, one of Chicago's most respected radio brands." CBS Radio Chicago VP of programming Todd Cavanah comments, "Greg grew up listening to XRT as a teenager and spent decades programming against it. This is an unbelievable opportunity for us to have not only a true fan of XRT but a strategic thinker to make XRT the number one rock choice in Chicago. His deep knowledge of music's past, present and future will keep XRT evolving forward by remembering the heritage of this unique Chicago brand. For 'KHits,' Greg brings tremendous knowledge to the classic hits format and we welcome him as a partner on our programming team." Speaking about this new opportunity, Solk states, "I have been blessed in my career to work for some amazing stations in my hometown, but this opportunity is off the charts. Everyone knows there is no station or staff anywhere in the world that can rival the 45-year heritage of WXRT — 'Chicago's Finest Rock.' I am humbled to be a part of its brilliant legacy. To be asked to also take the reins of 'KHits' makes this the most exciting move I can imagine. I can't wait to join the great team of professionals at CBS Radio. I am honored by the confidence Tim Pohlman, Todd Cavanah and Chris Oliviero have placed in me."
Music Radio News and Career Moves. In an ongoing effort to illustrate the importance of broadcast radio to the discovery of new music, iHeartMedia is engaging in a world premiere of Katy Perry's latest single, "Chained to the Rhythm." All day today, the song will air at the top of every hour (until 11:00 pm) on 150 iHM CHR, hot AC and rhythm stations. iHeartMedia says that "research shows that more than 70% of listeners – including users of on-demand services like Spotify or Pandora – discover new music first on broadcast radio. That's why broadcast airplay is critical in the success of breaking new music."…..On Sunday (2/12), WDVD, Detroit morning personality Blaine Fowler partners with Sweet Magnolia's Southern Cooking in Southfield, Michigan to honor exceptional local women at the "Blaine's Best Banquet." The event honors women from Southeastern Michigan who've "made outstanding contributions in their community, their workplace, or at home." Fowler says, "The response has been overwhelming and extremely heartening. We knew we'd get some great stories, though we never expected that we would receive so many! These stories tell of extraordinary commitment, determination, strength, selflessness, caring, and love." Ten nominated ladies who were hand-selected by Blaine will be honored in front of their friends and families. Blaine will be telling each of their stories, as well as presenting the honorees with a Blaine's Best commemorative award…..Pictured here at Wednesday evening's "A Heroes and Friends' Tribute to Randy Travis" at Nashville's Bridgestone Arena are (from l-r) Kelly Lynn Janson (singer/songwriter Chris Janson's wife), Chris Janson, NASH director of programming John Shomby, and singer/songwriter and "Mornings with Ty, Kelly & Chuck" co-host Chuck Wicks. Wicks was one of the 30 performers at Wednesday's tribute. Proceeds from the event went to the Randy Travis Foundation for stroke research.
Charlie XCX Visits Beasley Las Vegas. Pop star and Road Runner/Atlantic Records recording artist Charlie XCX poses for a photo backstage with some of the staff of Beasley Media Group's hot AC KVGS "Star 107.9." From left to right are: KVGS morning show co-host Aimee Montgomery, afternoon personality and APD/MD Brian Hammer, Charlie XCX, night jock Chad Letts, and OM/PD John Candelaria.
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
Nielsen: November PPMs Show Strong Listenership for News/Talk and Sports Talk Radio. Although, compared to the PPM survey period in 2012 (the last presidential election), the numbers were not quite as high for the news/talk format. Nielsen Audio reports that its aggregate share for news/talk stations in the PPM markets in the 2016 November survey was 10.2% (6+), 4.5% (18-34), and 7.6% (25-54). These numbers compare with the November 2012 survey accordingly: 11.1% (6+), 4.6% (18-34), and 8.4% (25-54). Still, the November 2016 numbers represent an increase over last month's (October 2016) shares in all three demos: 9.9% (6+), 4.3% (18-34), and 7.3% (25-54). For sports talk radio, the November PPM survey falls in the middle of the NFL season and during the MLB playoffs and World Series. As a format, sports talk has performed steadily over the past three years during the November survey. Persons 6+ garnered a 5.4 share in 2014, 2015, and 2016. In the 18-34 demo, the shares were 4.1%, 4.0%, and 4.2%, respectively. And in the 25-54 demographic, the format's share was 6.0%, 6.1%, and 6.1%, respectively. See the whole report from Nielsen here.
WSCR, Chicago's Terry Boers to Retire in January. In a lengthy post on WSCR, Chicago's website, sports talk personality Terry Boers announces he's retiring from "one of the greatest jobs you can have," effective after his and partner Dan Bernstein's last show together on January 5. The 66-year-old Boers has missed a lot time on the air this year dealing with health issues that have resulted in two surgeries. Nowhere in his message does he directly relate his decision to retire from "The Score" to his health, but it appears to have some bearing on the decision. WSCR has not announced its plans for the afternoon drive shift just yet, but it's likely a new partner for Dan Bernstein will be found. Read Boers' letter to listeners here.
Cumulus' WNMQ-FM, Columbus, Mississippi Adds Local PM Drive Show. At Cumulus Media's Columbus, Mississippi, sports talker WNMQ "103.1 The Team," a new afternoon show has launched titled, "The Drive w/ Steve & The Professor," featuring Steve Rogers (right) and Glenn "The Professor" Lautzenhiser (left). The station states that the 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm show covers "all things related to local SEC teams – Mississippi State Bulldogs, the Ole Miss Rebels and the Alabama Crimson Tide – along with local high school athletics from the Columbus High Falcons to the West Point Green Wave and the Starkville Yellow Jackets. The show will feature news and opinions from Lautzenhiser and Rogers, as well as sports history and trivia, local guests, and listener call-ins." Rogers was previously a city editor for the Commercial Dispatch in Columbus before becoming assignment editor and assistant news director at WCBI-TV and later news director at WTVA-TV. Lautzenhiser is deeply involved in local community service work and has served for many years as a member of the Society for American Baseball Research.
Trump Transition Process, Trump Flag Burning Flap, Carrier Jobs Deal, Election Recount, Syria Civil War, Gatlinburg Wildfires, and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (11/29). The Trump Administration's transition and the ongoing selection of cabinet members; President-Elect Donald Trump's statement about jail time or loss of citizenship for flag burners; the announcement that Trump and Indiana-based Carrier have struck a deal to keep 1,000 jobs headed for Mexico in Indiana; the controversy over the election recount started by Green Party candidate Jill Stein; the deteriorating conditions in Aleppo, Syria, the ongoing civil war, and Russia's military involvement; the wildfires that are causing destruction in the Gatlinburg, Tennessee area; and the weekend's NFL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
PodcastOne Launches Sports Show with Chris Webber. The name of the new podcast hosted by five-time NBA All-Star and current TNT basketball analyst Chris Webber is "Fearless or Insane." PodcastOne calls it a "weekly discussion of sports and athletes and their impact on culture, politics, society, and the life issues that affect everyone." Webber says, "I am excited about my new podcast 'Fearless or Insane,' where we will discuss sports, athletes and their impact on society. It is my hope that this show will both inform and inspire by going beyond the court and the field, and tapping into real life where humanity thrives. I'd also like to thank Norm Pattiz and PodcastOne for the opportunity to bring important dialogue to such a great platform."
Odds & Sods. Boston news pro Diane Stern is retiring from CBS RADIO's all-news WBZ-AM after a 33-year career with the station. The award-winning anchor joined WBZ in 1983. She'd previously served with WEEI and WITS/WMEX in the market…..iHeartRadio and Arianna Huffington's new venture Thrive Global are partnering for a new, bi-weekly podcast to be available on iHeartRadio. The companies say that The Thrive Global Podcast will "explore ways to enhance the lives of listeners nationwide." It'll be hosted by Arianna Huffington and will feature interviews with notable leaders, celebrities, athletes and influencers who will discuss how they thrive by prioritizing their well-being….. Programmer Bob Neumann is taking on the SVP of programming role at iHeartMedia's six-station Savannah/Hilton Head cluster that includes news/talk WTKS-AM.
Friday, November 4, 2016
Dickey Broadcasting Inks 10-Year Deal with Atlanta Braves. From Atlanta comes news of Dickey Broadcasting Company's new deal with MLB's Atlanta Braves that's described by the WCNN owner as "an unprecedented" 10-year extension for the company to continue to serve as exclusive radio rights-holder for Braves baseball through 2026. In addition, Dickey Broadcasting is announcing it will move its studios and offices to a new space in The Battery Atlanta, leasing loft office space on the 4th floor, overlooking the plaza and next to the Coca-Cola Roxy Theater in the new mixed-use development adjacent to the team's new home – SunTrust Park. As part of the deal, Dickey's WCNN and FM translator W229AG at 93.7 will air all regular season, preseason and post-season games – in addition to a plethora of Braves-related out-of-game programming. Dickey Broadcasting president David Dickey states, "This extension represents a new era for our relationship with one of the most storied franchises in professional sports. We've long been proud partners of the Atlanta Braves and now we're excited that we can call them our neighbors at The Battery Atlanta. From expanded coverage opportunities to exclusive programming, we'll be able to share the best stories from the team to all of Braves Country." Dickey Broadcasting will also continue to manage the Braves Radio Network.
Sid Rosenberg to Replace Warner Wolfe on 'Imus in the Morning.' There's been no official statement from Cumulus or WABC, New York, but it's being widely reported that longtime "Imus in the Morning" sports anchor Warner Wolfe has "retired" from the Imus show effective immediately. Former Imus sports anchor (and current late morning WABC personality) Sid Rosenberg tells TALKERS he makes his return to that slot on Monday (11/7).
Devils, Prudential Center and iHeartMedia Launch The One Jersey Sports and Entertainment Network. A collaboration between the NHL's New Jersey Devils and Prudential Center, along with iHeartMedia New York results in the launch of The One Jersey Sports and Entertainment Network, a "first-of-its-kind digital platform featuring all live regular season Devils hockey games and original Devils and New Jersey entertainment programming." The platform is accessible via the Devils app and via iHeartRadio. Twenty-three regular season Devils games will be exclusively available on the platform and the rest of the regular season games will be simulcast along with broadcast partner CBS RADIO's WFAN, New York. A press release adds, "Original programming on The One Jersey Network will include exclusive live and on-demand content from the Devils and Prudential Center featuring Devils coaches, players, alumni and fans; Devils, sports, entertainment, community and cultural podcasts; and diverse, world-class New Jersey-focused entertainment content from The Rock – the home of New Jersey sports and entertainment. The network will showcase prominent New Jersey personalities, journalists and up-and-coming talent from around the Garden State. A full programming schedule will be announced at a later date."
ESPN New York's Michael Kay and Don La Greca Face Off in 'The Great Sports Debate.' On Monday, ESPN O&O WEPN, New York "ESPN New York 98.7 FM" is presenting "The Great Sports Debate" at Fordham University's Keating Hall, live on the radio and simulcast on the YES Network from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm ET. Afternoon drive personalities (Fordham alum) Michael Kay and Don La Greca "will face each other in a battle of wits about the hottest topics in sports, with Kay show co-host Peter Rosenberg as the moderator. Celebrity judges Rick DiPietro, Chris Canty and Bill Daughtry from the Hahn & Humpty show decide on the champion. The live showcase is being presented in conjunction with the school's Department of Communication and Media Studies. It's open to students, faculty and administrators at Fordham. In addition, a few lucky listeners who won an on-air contest will be in attendance.
Election 2016 Issues Top Talkers TenTM for Week of October 31-November 4. The presidential race between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week. At #2 on the Talkers TenTM was the FBI's Hillary Clinton emails investigation. Coming in at #3 was the down-ticket U.S. House and Senate Races, followed by concerns about potential voter fraud and poll tampering at #4. The Talkers TenTM 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. View this week's entire chart here.
PodcastOne Debuts Horror Series Starring Malcolm McDowell. On Halloween Day, PodcastOne launched a new dramatic, suspense series starring Golden Globe nominee Malcolm McDowell. "Dreadtime Stories" features McDowell taking on roles written by top writers, including Max Allan Collins ("Road to Perdition") and featuring celebrity guest stars. Each story has new characters with the recurring elements of nail-biting suspense and dark humor. New podcasts will be available Mondays on a bi-weekly schedule. PodcastOne founder and CEO Norm Pattiz states, "This is a great new addition to our dramatic lineup, hosted by Malcolm McDowell, no less. I just listened to the first episode, and it's great." The series was co-created by Carl Amari, Tom DeFeo and Max Allan Collins and produced/directed by Carl Amari and Fangoria. Check it out here.
Carole Marks Honored for Contributions to the Preservation of Nature. In a ceremony at their facility in Mystic, Connecticut, the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center honored Focus Communications CEO Carole Marks for her tremendous contributions over the years to supporting the organization and its work in preserving nature – specifically flowers, pollinators (butterflies) and birds. Marks, who hosts the long-running, syndicated upper-demo talk radio weekend show, "A Touch of Grey," is widely recognized as one of the nation's leading experts on issues of concern to senior citizens and their families. She is also a dedicated champion in the battle against ageism in American society. Marks (left) is pictured at the event with the center's executive director, Maggie Jones (right).
Wednesday, September 14, 2016
Tribune's WGN, Chicago to Provide News for 'Me-TV FM' as Part of Partnership. Chicago media writer Robert Feder has the story on this interesting partnership between Tribune news/talker WGN and the Weigel Broadcasting-operated soft AC-oldies format airing on low-power analog VHF TV signal at 87.7 FM (WRME-LP). Under the terms of the deal, WGN news staffers will provide two one-minute news/weather/sports updates per hour during morning drive for "Me-TV FM." Additionally, the two companies will enter into a joint sales agreement with WGN selling time on "Me-TV FM." The unique music format – programmed by Rick O'Dell – is surprising some industry watchers as it recently pulled a 2.0 share in the August Nielsen PPM survey with a cume of 684,000. Read Feder's piece here.
Cumulus Media Providence Promotes Paras to VP/MM. Ten-year Cumulus Media Providence director of sales Holly Paras is elevated to vice president and market manager for the company's five-station cluster in that Rhode Island metro. Cumulus Media senior vice president Jeff Brown comments, "Holly's fingerprints are on many of the successes that our cluster in Providence has enjoyed over the years. She is the first to tell you that those wins are due to our very talented, market-leading team. She is the leader and the team is fired up to follow her." Paras states, "I am excited and humbled to be asked to lead such a talented team of people and the tremendous radio brands at Cumulus Providence." Before her director of sales tenure, Paras was national sales manager for three Cumulus Media Providence outlets, and was a Katz Radio Group New York City account executive. Fourteen (14) stations are listed in Nielsen Audio's August 2016 PPM report for Providence. With their August 2016 6+- market rank and 6+-share in parentheses, Cumulus Media Providence's five station cluster consists of adult contemporary WWLI "Lite Rock 105" (#1, 9.7); CHR WPRO-FM "Today's Hit Music" (#2, 8.5); talk WPRO-AM (#7, 4.6); rhythmic CHR WWKX "Hot 106" (#8, third successive 2.6); and talk WPRV (#13, .5).
PodcastOne to Launch Virtual Reality Programming. Stating that it will be the first company to "enter the virtual reality space," PodcastOne announces a partnership with Mandt VR to launch its new PodcastOne 360 platform. Mandt VR was founded by multi-Emmy Award winning producer Neil Mandt. The firms report they plan to produce more than 200 original 360-video experiences and expect to become the largest producers of high-quality, serialized virtual reality content in the world. They also intend to develop a proprietary camera system, specifically for PodcastOne's high-volume production. PodcastOne says the potential of providing the virtual reality experience to its listeners, who deliver more than 400 million monthly impressions, and Mandt VR's unique ability to activate large quantities of captivating content, will create a robust catalogue of compelling, serialized content. "The Adam Carolla Show" will be the first podcast available to listeners on PodcastOne 360. PodcastOne founder and executive chairman Norm Pattiz states, "Virtual reality is the future of entertainment and Mandt VR's leading technology delivers quality video, and in large quantities. This is key when you churn out about 350 podcast episodes weekly. This provides the next dimension in consuming our on-demand audio programming. It's especially germane to an audience that wants to consume PodcastOne's content on an ever-more connected basis. This is exactly the kind of partnership and cutting-edge direction that floats our collective boats." Pictured above are (from l-r): PodcastOne CEO Jim Berk, Mandt, Pattiz, and Mandt VR chief strategy officer Chadwick Turner.
Zac Davis Appointed SVP of Programming for iHeartMedia Richmond. This move keeps programming pro Zac Davis in the iHeartMedia family. He's been serving as program director for the company's CHR outlets WKSS, Hartford "Kiss 95-7" and WKCI, New Haven "KC101." Now, he moves south to Richmond, Virginia to take on the SVP of programming position for the eight-station cluster that includes: CHR WRVQ "Q94," CHR W241AP "96.1 The Planet," adult contemporary WTVR "Mix 98.1," AC W253BI "BIG 98.5," alternative WRXL "XL 102," hip hop WBTJ "106.5 The Beat," sport talk WRNL "FOX Sports 910" and news/talk WRVA "News Radio 1140." Market president Rick Green comments, "I'm thrilled that Zac is joining our great programming team. Zac is a proven leader with great success in a diversity of formats which makes him a great fit for our eight-station cluster in Richmond."
Odds & Sods. A new podcast series from PodcastOne launches titled, "How I Got Here." It's the work of recently graduated college roommates Tim Barnicle and Harry Hill who started wondering how to "make it" in the world, then decided to ask those who have "made it" to share their inspiring stories. The series kicks off September 20 with Emmy Award winner Tom Brokaw. This will be followed by Peabody Award winner and legendary interviewer Larry King in week two. New episodes will be available every Tuesday…..DGital Media and Learfield Sports are working together on a podcast project that will create original, non-event audio content for fans by the familiar, hometown radio voices associated with some of the nation's most recognizable collegiate athletic programs, including the Alabama Crimson Tide, North Carolina Tar Heels, Oklahoma Sooners and Oklahoma State Cowboys, with additional programs to be added soon…..The Genesis Communications Network-syndicated "Dr. Daliah Show" is added to the program schedule at WTNW, Jasper, Tennessee…..NBC Sports Radio announces sports media personality Mike Tirico is joining the network as an NFL commentator this football season. Tirico is host of NBC's "Football Night in America" and will be a featured contributor across NBC Sports Radio programming. He'll also do interviews with affiliated stations……Salem Radio Network host Mike Gallagher (left) is pictured here with Eric Trump (right) during a meeting at the World Bar of the Trump World Tower in Manhattan. Gallagher, along with SRN hosts Hugh Hewitt and Dennis Prager (plus actor Jon Voight) stopped in NYC on the network's "Decision 2016" tour that stops today (9/14) in Washington, Philadelphia, and Columbus, Ohio.
Client Story. The photo above shows WGOW, Chattanooga "Talk Radio 102.3 FM" personality Brian Joyce (left), Peachtree Auto Painting & Collision owner Bobby Socol, and Joyce's beloved 1964 Chevy Impala. Joyce tells TALKERS that when he decided his car needed a new paint job, the station contacted Peachtree in Chattanooga and came up with an endorsement deal he casually referred to as "Pimp Brian's Ride!" "They put a beautiful new two-tone paint job on the car, I talked it up on the air and social media (Facebook and Instagram, primarily), and the results were fantastic. Peachtree says their phones have been ringing off the hook since we started the campaign, and they've generated a ton of phone calls and inquiries, not to mention, new business!" Joyce says Peachtree has continued to advertise with the station.
Wednesday, August 31, 2016
Retrospective: The Life and Career of Dr. Joy Browne. In February 2015, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian conducted a lengthy interview with talk radio personality Dr. Joy Browne that resulted in a life and career retrospective of the radio star as she worked in the fourth decade of her broadcasting life. As a way of honoring the woman who passed away unexpectedly on August 27, TALKERS magazine is re-publishing the piece so that those who may have missed it can read it, and so that broadcasters and non-broadcasters alike can have a look back at the life of a complex and dedicated woman who used her outstanding listening and problem-solving skills to both help others and entertain radio listeners for so many years. Read Mike Kinosian's story here.
Millennials Schmillennials! On Tuesday, September 5, TALKERS magazine will post a video presentation from media consultant Holland Cooke that will offer some eye-popping facts about the value of upper-end Baby Boomers to retailers. Calling it an "instant sales meeting," Cooke says this is not to be missed by anyone charged with marketing via radio. While the full video presentation will be available on 9/5, check out this teaser video here.
Tribune Tower to Be Sold; WGN Radio to Remain There at Least Through June 2018. Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports today that although the Tribune Tower is being sold to Los Angeles-based developer CIM Group, WGN Radio staffers are being assured that the station's operations will continue there through the current lease that expires in June of 2018. Station officials say "when the time is right" they will begin negotiations to extend their lease in the historic downtown building. Currently, the station operates in the street-level Allstate Showcase Studio overlooking Michigan Avenue and Pioneer Court in addition to its offices on the 7th floor that were expanded back in 2012. However, it's expected the new owners will seek to lease the street-level space out to retailers. Read Feder's piece here.
PodcastOne and Forbes Partner for Podcast Network. The just-announced deal between Forbes and PodcastOne includes "joint efforts in podcast development and production, as well as distribution, promotion, marketing and advertising sales." A press release indicates the companies plan to collaborate on podcasts in the areas of video gaming, sports, tech, hip-hop and more, initially launching with four programs focused on business, women and tech. For the launch, beginning the first week of October, the roster will comprise "The Limit Does Not Exist," "Mentoring Moments," and "Hiding in the Bathroom" – podcasts produced internally by Forbes for its women's digital network Women@Forbes, launched in April, that have resonated with millennial and entrepreneurial women. The fourth program is a tech podcast, "The Premise," developed and launched by Forbes several months ago. PodcastOne founder Norm Pattiz says, "We've had a lot of 'oh, wow' moments at PodcastOne, none bigger than this. An exclusive podcast partnership with Forbes is a very big deal for our network. The Forbes brand brings with it the history and credibility in not only business, finance and tech, but also sports, women's issues, entertainment, plus everything and anything that the Forbes and PodcastOne teams will develop together."
Tony Kornheiser Show Re-Emerges as Podcast Via DGital and IMG. Sports media personality Tony Kornheiser returns to the audio world after recently exiting his daily sports talk radio show on WTEM, Washington via podcast through a collaboration between DGital Media and IMG. A press statement says Kornheiser will be "joined by longtime show regulars from the world of sports, politics and news, as well as the wide array of special guests that his longtime listeners have come to expect." DGital Media chief content officer Chris Corcoran says, "Tony is one of the few national personalities who continues to generate both buzz and news on a daily basis. His storytelling expertise and sports knowledge are unmatched and we are excited to create an exciting new home for his show and his fans."
Nielsen Audio Releases Second Round of August 2016 PPM Data. The second of four rounds of August 2016 PPM ratings data from Nielsen Audio has been released for 12 markets including: Washington, Boston, Detroit, Miami, Seattle, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. The August 2016 survey period covered July 14 through August 10. You can find the complete 6+ ratings numbers from subscribing stations here. Additionally, TALKERS/RadioInfo managing editor Mike Kinosian provides his "Twelve Takeaways" from this group on the main page of our sister publication here.
TALKERS magazine Publisher Michael Harrison Discusses Talk Radio's Effect on Election Discourse (and More) on KNPR, Las Vegas. During a 20-minute discussion with KNPR, Las Vegas' Joe Schoenmann about talk radio's effect on the nation's discussion about the political process and elections in America, TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison talks about that and much more. The discussion involved a lot of media theory as well as Harrison's thoughts about Millennials and their attitudes toward AM/FM radio and commercial media. Listen to the interview here.
The Presidential Race, Tuesday Primary Races, Weiner-Abedin Split, Kaepernick 'Anthem' Flap, EU-Apple Tax Controversy, Looming G20 Summit in China, Fears of Election Fraud, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (8/30). The activities of presidential candidates Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump; the primary elections in several states involving Marco Rubio, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, and John McCain; the separation of Hillary Clinton aid Huma Abedin and husband Anthony Weiner after a recent sexting episode; the ongoing flap over Colin Kaepernick's "National Anthem" protest; the EU slaps Apple with a $14.6 billion tax bill the tech company is disputing; this weekend's G20 Summit in China and growing anti-globalization sentiments; fears of election fraud after indications polling systems in Arizona and Illinois; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
WEEI Jimmy Fund Radio-Telethon Raises $3.5 Million. The annual two-day radio-telethon that happens every August to raise funds for Boston's Dana Farber Cancer Institute took place on Monday and Tuesday of this week at Fenway Park. This week's event was the 15th annual radio-telethon (also seen on regional cable channel NESN). Pictured here are (from l-r): WEEI's Jerry Thornton, Boston Celtics coach Brad Stevens, WEEI's Michael Holley, Boston Red Sox manager John Farrell, and WEEI's Dale Arnold.
Wednesday, July 27, 2016
Entercom Second Quarter Pro Forma Revenue Rises 5%. This second quarter report from Entercom includes the impact of last year's acquisition of Lincoln Financial Media stations and the swap with Bonneville International. As such, net revenue for the second quarter of 2016 was up 20% on income of $120.5 million. On a pro forma basis, revenue was up 5%. President and CEO David Field states, "Entercom continues to deliver strong and consistent organic, top-line and bottom-line growth, driven by the great work of our talented programming and sales teams and our strategic investments in building powerful local brands and content and excellent customer marketing capabilities. Looking forward, we expect a strong second half of the year as we benefit from our excellent ratings performance, enhanced sales execution, multiple growth initiatives and election year political revenue."
SiriusXM Reports Q2 Revenue Up 10%. The satellite radio service is reporting 2016 second quarter revenue of $1.2 billion, up 10% from the same quarter in 2015. CEO and director Jim Meyer notes that SiriusXM added 580,000 net new subscribers during the quarter, bringing the satcaster's total subscriber base to 30.6 million. During yesterday's investor conference call, Meyer spoke about the company's efforts to continue advancing the service's technology. He says they are investing in the new SiriusXM17 "next-generation platform" 360 L, short for 360-degree listening. Meyer says, "360 L is proceeding ahead and gaining traction with OEMs. I'm very pleased at the progress we are making building and deploying this platform. 360 L breaks down the big barrier we live with today as a one-way broadcaster by integrating satellite radio with two-way cellular connectivity. It lets us offer non-linear content to our subscribers, such as customized music playlists, on-demand content and personalized recommendations based on the tastes of our individual subscribers." Meyer also outlined the company's continuing work expanding its connected vehicle services.
Nielsen Revenue Up; Net Income Dips. Ratings giant Nielsen reported 2016 second quarter financial numbers yesterday and while revenue was up 2.4% during the period compared to the same period a year ago (4.5% in constant currency), net income was down 1.7% because of foreign exchange. Nielsen says audio revenue grew 1.7% on a reported and constant currency basis.
The Podcasting Session from TALKERS 2016: Bridging the Generations Posted Today. One of the highlights of the recent TALKERS 2016: Bridging the Generations convention – The Podcasting Session – is posted today on Talkers.com. The panel discussion was part of the 19th annual installment of the talk media industry's longest-running and most important national convention that took place May 20 on the campus of Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY. Moderated by PodcastOne founder and CEO, Norm Pattiz, speakers include (in alphabetical order): Andy Bowers, chief content officer/co-founder, Panoply/The Slate Group; Tom Cuddy, program director, WOR, New York; Greg Strassell, SVP programming, Hubbard Radio; and Tom Webster, VP strategy, Edison Research. The session is introduced by Brad Shepard, general manager/host, Pioneer Valley Radio, Springfield, MA. To view the panel discussion in its entirety, please click here. Stay tuned to Talkers.com for more videos from Talkers 2016: Bridging the Generations that will be posted in the days and weeks to come.
The Presidential Race/Democratic National Convention, DNC Server Hack Case, South China Sea Tensions, Black Lives Matter Movement, ISIS Attack on French Church, NYC Trump Jr. vs Weiner Mayoral Tiff, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/26). The action at the Democratic National Convention and the activities of presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton; the hack into the DNC's server and speculation that Russia is behind it in order to help Trump win the presidency; military tensions between the U.S. and China in the South China Sea and the territorial dispute; controversy over the actions of the Black Lives Matter movement; the murder of a Catholic priest in Northern France by ISIS terrorists; Anthony Weiner's statement he would come back to politics to challenge Donald Trump Jr. if he ran for NYC mayor; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Odds & Sods. This year's NAB Marconi Radio Awards Dinner & Show will be hosted by WCBS-FM, New York morning personality Scott Shannon. The event will take place September 22 at the 2016 NAB Radio Show at the Omni Nashville Hotel…..NBC Sports Group announces it is making the entire NBC Sports Radio portfolio of programming available on-demand via podcast. It also announced the new program, "Tara and Johnny," hosted by Tara Lipinski and Johnny Weir. It debuts today (7/27) and will "touch on hot topics in sports, pop culture, and fashion." Weir and Lipinski are serving as NBC Olympic correspondents during the Rio Games.
Radio Biz Figure Jim Carnegie Dies at 66. Radio pro and longtime publisher of the trades RBR and TVBR Jim Carnegie has died at the age of 66. Carnegie's RBR/TVBR was acquired by Eric Rhoads' Streamline Publications in 2013, a year after Carnegie's wife and business partner Cathy unexpectedly passed away from complications due to a brain aneurysm.