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Tag: "WTEM"
Friday, January 31, 2020
NOW POSTED: New Installment of "The Michael Harrison Wrap: An Overview of the National Conversation." The vibrant, one-hour weekend special, "The Michael Harrison Wrap," that looks back each week at the hottest topics discussed in American talk media per the research of TALKERS magazine, is now posted on the website of its flagship station, WONK-FM, Washington, DC. The new episode titled, "Can I Get a Witness?" looks back at this past week of January 27-31, 2020 and features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS; Chris Stigall, talk show host, WNTP, Philadelphia "AM 990 The Answer"; Howard Monroe, talk show host/owner WKKX/WVLY, Wheeling, WV; Victoria Jones, executive director, DC Radio Company; Joshua Philipp, senior investigative reporter, The Epoch Times; Pamela Garber, counselor and therapist, New York City; and Bali Samra, human resources consultant/commentator, Pioneer Valley Radio, Springfield, MA. This acclaimed news/talk radio show airs each week on WONK-FM, Washington, DC on Friday evenings between 6:00-7:00 pm ET. It also airs throughout the weekend on WRKO, Boston; KSCO, Santa Cruz, CA; KFNX, Phoenix; WVOX, Westchester, NY; KBDT, Dallas; KQSP, Minneapolis; KBKW, Aberdeen, WA; the Virginia Talk Radio Network and Pioneer Valley Radio in Springfield, MA as well as appearing on the iHeartRadio App. To listen to this week's episode (and the program's complete archives), please click here. To view the latest TALKERS magazine topic research, please click here.
iHeartMedia Re-Brands Sports WTSO, Madison; Cancels Two Local Shows. In Madison, Wisconsin, iHeartMedia makes changes to sports talker WTSO-AM, re-branding the station from its current "The Big 1070" to "1070 The Game," and altering the daily lineup. Effective Monday (2/3), "The Crossover with Ted Davis & Dan Needles" and "Drew & K.B." are gone from the lineup. Longtime Wisconsin sports media personality Mike Heller moves from mornings to afternoon drive (without current morning co-host Dolphin), and Steve Czaban takes over the 6:00 am to 9:00 am daypart. Czaban also hosts the afternoon drive show on Radio One's WTEM, Washington, DC "The Team." In middays, "The Dan Patrick Show" airs from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon, followed by FOX Sports Radio's "The Herd with Colin Cowherd" from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm. iHeartMedia Madison market president Drew Lautner says, "Wisconsin has a strong and diverse sports fan base. We believe we have assembled the best of the best to deliver news, commentary, differing opinions, on-field insight and an occasional laugh to our loyal listeners."
Townsquare Media Begins Operating Duluth Sports Talk Station. Ahead of its intended purchase of WWAX-FM, Duluth, Townsquare Media enters into a time brokerage agreement with owner Twin Ports Radio and will move the sports format to its own WEBC-AM. It will also move its classic rock format from translator W293CT to WWAX-FM as "Sasquatch 92-1." the changes are expected to take place the week of February 17. WWAX "92.1 The Fan" airs content from iHeartMedia's The Fan Radio Network" emanating from KFXN, Minneapolis. Townsquare has acquired the Duluth-Superior radio broadcast rights for the Minnesota Vikings for the next four seasons. Townsquare Media Duluth market president and chief revenue officer Mary Niemeyer says, "All of these programming moves greatly improve the experience for our local listeners and the marketing solutions we can provide for our local advertising partners, enhancing our position as a premiere local media company in the Northland. We are thrilled to bring 'The Fan' back home to WEBC along with the Minnesota Vikings, while providing our rabid 'Sasquatch' audience extended reach on 92.1 FM."
Report: Changes on Tap for Sports Talk KFNS-AM, St. Louis. According to Dan Caesar's story in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, KFNS-AM, St. Louis co-owner Randy Markel has reached an agreement to sell a 50% interest in the station to local attorney Mark Goldenberg and Archford Capital Strategies CEO Jim Maher. The story indicates that lineup changes are a possibility as the newly constituted ownership group considers the station's future. Markel tells the paper that afternoon host – longtime St. Louis talk radio figure – Frank O. Pinion currently hosts the afternoon drive show but his general interest show is not as sports intensive as the new ownership may desire. Other St. Louis sports talk personalities mentioned as possible additions to the station include Kevin Slaten, Brian McKenna, and Jeff Gordon.
PPM Analysis: All-News. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio's Holiday 2019 PPM survey, today focusing on the all-news format. Not surprisingly, 87% of all-news stations saw their weekly 6+ AQH share decline from the December survey to the Holiday survey. Sixty percent of all-news stations lost weekly 6+ AQH share from Holiday 2018 to Holiday 2019. Entercom's KCBS-AM, San Francisco was the highest ranked all-news station during the Holiday PPM survey, ranking #2 in the market. See Mike Kinosian's entire report here.
Impeachment Trial Top News/Talk Story for Week of January 27-31. The impeachment trial of President Donald Trump was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the status of the Wuhan coronavirus, tied with U.S.-China Relations and the economy. Coming in at #3 was the Democrats battling to challenge President Trump in November, followed by the death of NBA legend Kobe Bryant 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. See this week's complete chart here.
Kal Rudman Shutters FMQB. After almost 52 years in business, founder and publisher Kal Rudman is shutting down the radio industry tip sheet Friday Morning Quarterback, better known as FMQB. Rudman has sold the assets of the publication to Deane Media Solutions. In a statement, Rudman says, "I am retiring from the music industry, but not the radio business. For a long time, I have focused much of my philanthropic efforts in the medical world, and now I am merging that with radio. For over 50 years, I have been the specialist in predicting countless hits for numerous artists, and I've received unique recognition by the music industry as not only a tastemaker but a star maker. However, times have changed drastically, along with the industry, and it was time for me to move on to my original passion, medicine."
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. At Waterloo Media's classic rock KLBJ-FM, Austin shifts the "Dudley & Bob with Matt" show from morning drive to afternoon drive, effective Monday (2/3). Station program director and PM drive host LA Lloyd moves to mornings. Waterloo SVP and market manager Scott Gillmore states, "Austinites listen to the radio in their cars. Afternoon traffic is worse and afternoon commutes are longer. Now, the drive home just got way more fun with 'Dudley & Bob with Matt' – and the boys get to sleep in for the first time in decades, too. Everybody's talking in the mornings. But now there's a true Austin pro playing great classic rock and getting you to work in a great mood. LA Lloyd on 93.7 KLBJ-FM."…..iHeartMedia launches a classic hits station on translator W265CV, Madison, Wisconsin as "U-100.9, Madison's Super '60s and '70s Station, effective tomorrow (2/1). iHeartMedia Madison market president Drew Lautner says, "I'm extremely excited to be part of this new station launch. Madison missed having a station that is dedicated to airing top '60s and '70s music – so we're excited to step up and give listeners what they want with the new 'U-100.9.'"…..NRG Media flips KPTY-AM/K297BS from CHR to country as "107.3 HANK FM – Playing the Legends of Country." NRG Media operations manager Jeff Winfield says, "Country music is about great stories. In addition to playing classic county on 'HANK' we will go behind the music and share those stories with our listeners. We'll have features like 'HANK's Music Vault,' 'Stories Made the Music,' 'HANK Artist Spotlight' and 'Rewind County.'"
Tuesday, July 16, 2019
APOLLO 11 ANNIVERSARY: CBS News Radio Correspondent Peter King is This Week's Guest on Harrison Podcast. In commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing (7/20) and the stellar 45-year career of a CBS News Radio reporter who has been covering the Kennedy Space Center in Florida for the past two decades, Peter King is this week's guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series "The Michael Harrison Interview." Harrison (a passionate space enthusiast) and King discuss a wide variety of topics including NASA, US space exploration, memories of the Apollo 11 mission, their love of radio, and the state of journalism in America. 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 daily TALKERS email newsletter and every page of Talkers.com.
Esiason Gets The Call to NY State Broadcaster's Association HOF. Twelve-year Entercom New York City sports talk WFAN morning show co-host, Boomer Esiason, has been selected to the New York State Broadcaster's Association's Hall of Fame. The legendary former NFL quarterback will be inducted at the Broadcast Leadership and Hall of Fame luncheon during the NAB New York Show in October. Entercom New York regional president/market manager Susan Larkin remarks, "Boomer has been a cornerstone of this station since his arrival. This distinguished recognition represents his invaluable contributions to our station and industry overall." In thanking the NY State Broadcaster's Association "for this incredible honor," Esiason comments, "It is extremely humbling to be recognized alongside hardworking, accomplished individuals in our industry." He and Gregg Giannotti form "Boomer and Gio" weekday mornings on WFAN, which is the flagship of the Yankees, Giants, Brooklyn Nets, and New Jersey Devils. After his 14-year NFL career, Esiason debuted as a commentator on ABC-TV's "Monday Night Football." For nearly two decades, he has called games for Westwood One/CBS Radio Sports and served as a studio analyst for "The NFL Today" on CBS-TV and Showtime's "Inside the NFL."
Talkers 2019: Telling the Story Videos Continue Posting Today with Special Luncheon Address by Salem Radio Network Host Sebastian Gorka. TALKERS is continuing to post key speeches, presentations and sessions from the recent 22nd annual edition of the talk media industry's longest-running and most-important national convention – Talkers 2019: Telling the Story. Today's (7/16) post presents a special luncheon address by former Trump Administration advisor Sebastian Gorka, now a personality syndicated by Salem Radio Network. Yesterday's (7/15) post presents the panel discussion "Adding the Video Component to Talk Radio" featuring Howie Carr, host of the Howie Carr Show (Howie Carr Radio Network and Newsmax TV), Jared Hart, former PD, WPHT, Philadelphia, and Art Vuolo, president, Vuolo Video. The session was introduced and facilitated by Scott Lakefield, APD, WOR, New York. Already posted: the special keynote address delivered by CBS Sports Radio syndicated host Jim Rome with an introduction from Yappy Days author/college professor Bernadette Duncan; the panel discussion, "Generating Talk Radio Revenue in 2019" featuring (in alphabetical order) Asa Andrew, host, AsaRx; Vince Benedetto, CEO, Bold Gold Media Group; Suzanne Grimes, EVP/marketing, Cumulus Media and president, Westwood One; and Dave Robinett, chief marketing officer, #250-America's Mobile Speed Dial – moderated by Erica Farber, president and CEO of the Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB) and introduced by renown independent station owner Michael Zwerling of KSCO/KOMY, Santa Cruz, CA; the special keynote address by Key Networks syndicated personality Bill O'Reilly; the one-on-one discussion, "Sports Talk Radio's Role in Popular Culture" featuring a conversation between Mark Chernoff, senior VP/programming WFAN/Entercom, NY and captain/sports format, CBS Sports Radio and Mike Thomas, PD, WBZ-FM "98.5 The Sports Hub," Boston and brand manager/spoken word, podcasts, esports, Beasley Broadcasting with Kate Delaney, host, GCN and correspondent NBC Sports Radio, serving as facilitator; the panel discussion, "Broadcasting and Podcasting," featuring (in alphabetical order) Greg Batusic, chief operating officer, PodcastOne; Steven Goldstein, founder/CEO Amplifi Media; Michael Czarnecki, program director, WONK-FM, Washington, DC and iHeartRadio Podcast Channel; and Craig Schwalb, former program director WABC, New York and WPRO, Providence with moderation by Mike Kinosian, managing editor/West Coast bureau chief, TALKERS; the keynote "fireside chat" in which TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison interviews Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel star Sean Hannity in a casual one-on-one conversation introduced by DC Radio Company executive director Victoria Jones; the opening address titled, "Telling the Story," delivered by Lee Habeeb, host and producer of the successful syndicated program, "Our American Stories;" RAB president/CEO Erica Farber receiving the Woman of the Year award and SiriusXM Satellite Radio star "Cousin" Bruce Morrow receiving the Lifetime Achievement award. The convention took place in New York City on Friday, June 7 and was one of the most positively received in the event's colorful history. TALKERS plans to add one or two videos per day to those posted until all the major events of the conference are posted here at Talkers.com where they will remain on view for the rest of the year. To see the videos and convention video page, please click here.
Preliminary iHM Q2 Results, NASDAQ Listing. Under the Global Select Market ticker symbol "IHRT," NASDAQ approves the listing of iHeartMedia's Class A common stock, par valued at $0.001 per share. Class A shares are expected to begin trading on NASDAQ this Thursday (7/18). Meanwhile, preliminary SEC-filed second-quarter financial show year-to-year revenue rose 2.4% to $913 million. Operating income (OI) was off $1 million to $180, while Adjusted EBITDA grew 3.1% ($255 million to $263 million). Preliminary results have not been audited or reviewed by the company's independent accountants, and remain subject to review by iHeartMedia's management and audit committee. Results may differ from actual results, which remain subject to completion of management's and the audit committee's final review, as well as the interim review by its independent accountants.
Study: Podcast Ads Least Likely To Be Skipped. Monthly podcast listeners skip digital ad formats the most – online pop-up ads, online banner ads, e-mail advertising, direct mail, and online video. That's among the nuggets Westwood One uncovered when it teamed with Canadian media research consultancy Audience Insights in a study focused on podcast consumers and their listening habits. Fielded this past March, the report examines podcast consumption habits of 1,407 monthly podcast listeners. It addresses four distinct segments based on when people began listening to podcasts: 313 "Podcast Pioneers" who started listening four or more years ago; 415 who began listening two to three years ago; 327 who began listening in the past seven to 12 months; and 352 "Podcast Newcomers" who began listening within the last six months. Westwood One president/Cumulus Media executive vice president of marketing Suzanne Grimes states, "The finding that emerging podcast listeners are using a diverse number of platforms signals a turning point for the podcast industry. When compared to the 'Podcast Pioneers,' who use Apple Podcasts almost exclusively, 'Podcast Newcomers' are open to using multiple platforms to access podcasts." Audience Insights president Jeff Vidler notes, "This podcast download report expands on much of what we have seen as we put our microscope on Canadian podcast listeners. Podcasting is uniquely engaging, on trend with on-demand content platforms like Netflix or paid music streaming services, but the only one accessible to advertisers." Other study highlights include: Roughly three of ten (31%) "Podcast Newcomers" typically discover podcasts by hearing about them on terrestrial radio. While the average monthly podcast listener accesses 2.7 podcast platforms, "Podcast Newcomers" use 3.5 platforms. Two of three "Power" podcast listeners follow their favorite podcast hosts on social media. Podcast listeners equally use Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube to follow their favorite hosts. Approximately two of five (42%) "Power" podcast listeners follow their favorite podcast host on Twitter, compared to 22% of U.S. adults who ever use Twitter. Spotify and Google Podcasts are attracting consumers who recently began listening to podcasts. Among those listening to podcasts over four years, Apple is the leading destination.
SBG President: "Case Is Far From Over." As we reported yesterday (TALKERS, 7/15), a Los Angeles superior court jury ruled unanimously in favor of independent syndicator of radio live play-by-play Sports USA in its multi-year violation of contract suit against Sun Broadcasting Group. The jury awarded Sports USA damages in excess of $2 million as compensation for Sun's breach of its advertising representation agreement with Sports USA. Sun Broadcast Group president Jason Bailey, however, stresses, "This case is far from over. We were shocked and saddened by the verdict in Pacific West Radio Sports, LLC (d/b/a Sports USA) v. Sun Broadcast Group, Inc. Despite establishing wrongdoing by Sports USA from even before the inception of the agreement between the parties, the jury granted judgment in favor of Sports USA. The jury reached that verdict without the benefit of being able to consider key evidence of Sports USA's wrongdoing. Sun was barred from introducing that evidence at trial on hearsay grounds. We remain determined to see that justice is done, and plan to pursue every available avenue to overturn this result so that Sports USA's improper business practices are exposed and no other company falls victim. This verdict involves the old Sun, which has not traded since late 2018. It does not involve the current SBG-owned and operated by Gen Media Partners." Bailey further notes, "This will be the only statement I will make on the matter while we work through the appeal process."
Three Moody Radio AM Stations Are On The Block. With plans to exit the AM radio business, Moody Radio is set to spin off its three AM facilities. Chicago-based operator Moody Bible Institute will focus on FM network expansion. Senior vice president of media Greg Thornton writes, "Moody Radio seeks to transform the world for Jesus Christ, one listener at a time, by producing and delivering quality, creative, biblical content, which helps people take the next step in their journey with Jesus. In looking to the future, Moody Radio is committed to double [our] overall impact by 2030. Our strategic roadmap to achieving this bold vision includes audience growth through market expansion/realignment, and content development strategies." Thornton recognizes "the limitations of AM broadcasting today, including [that] many AM stations only broadcast in the daytime." Thus, Moody Radio will be selling Spanish religion WMBI W268AY "Moody Radio – AM 1110," Chicago; Spanish religion WDLM "Moody Radio – AM 960," East Moline/Quad Cities, Illinois; and Spanish religion WGNR "Moody Radio – AM 1470," Anderson, Indiana. According to Thornton, "Listeners in these cities will still hear Moody Radio 24 hours a day on our strong FM signals. Proceeds from the sale of these three AM licenses will be used to further the expansion of Moody Radio through the addition of digital/online content, new apps in both English and Spanish, and the acquisition of select FM broadcast licenses."
TALKERS News Notes. As part of a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing investigating charges of bias against conservatives, Salem Radio Network host Dennis Prager will testify at 2:30 pm (ET) today (Tuesday, 7/16). Prager's opening statement has already been submitted and, in part, he states, "I have been communicating this appreciation of America for 35 years as a radio talk show host, the last 20 in national syndication with the Salem Radio Network, an organization that is a blessing in American life." According to Salem Radio Network vice president of news & talk programming Tom Tradup, videos from Prager's "online Prager University have been blocked as 'controversial' by Google and other search engines. Google officials deny any political bias or filtering of conservative viewpoints." Texas Republican senator Ted Cruz is the chair of today's hearing ….. In two weeks (7/30 & 7/31), Westwood One News' coverage of the Democratic National Committee-sanctioned/CNN-produced Democratic Presidential Debates will air from Detroit. Westwood One News correspondent Evan Haning will anchor, starting at 7:59 pm (ET) both nights, while Bob Costantini handles on-scene reporting and will be available for live Q&A from the Motor City. The network will offer stations an unanchored feed and one-minute special reports each night at the top and bottom of the hour (8:00 pm – 12:00 midnight) ….. Set to rejoin WTEM "980 The Team" in three weeks (8/5) is Kevin Sheehan, who wasn't retained when Radio One acquired the Washington (DC) sports talk outlet late last year. Sheehan co-hosted mornings with Chris Cooley and will return for 7:00 am – 10:00 am duty. Radio One senior regional vice president Jeff Wilson comments, "I'm elated to have Kevin Sheehan back home on 'The Team.' His unique approach to the sports landscape, combined with his overwhelming passion, provides an entertainment destination for listeners throughout the Nation's Capital." Prior to departing last year, Sheehan had been with WTEM 14 years and states, "I'm looking forward to coming home – it's great to be back." ….. The first three Jim Rutt Show podcasts went live yesterday (Monday, July 15) on JimRuttShow.com. The series will examine "cutting-edge thinking" in science and technology, and the future of our economic, political and social systems and institutions. The past chair of The Santa Fe Institute; former chief executive officer of Network Solutions; and first CTO of Thomson-Reuters, Rutt was called "the internet's bad boy" by The New York Times for his reputation for creative mischief. A complete collection of Rutt's podcasts, including show transcripts, episode highlights, guest biographies, and links are available on the aforementioned website.
Line Drives. This past weekend, NBC Sports Radio produced seven radio shows from the driving range at Edgewood Tahoe golf course in Lake Tahoe (Nevada), site of the American Century Championship celebrity golf tournament. Flanking MLB Hall of Fame pitcher John Smoltz (center) are Tim Murray and Michael Jenkins, hosts of NBC Sports Radio's "The Daily Line." Launched this past January in conjunction with Westwood One, "The Daily Line" is a weekday, 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm sports talk show, focusing on sports betting.
Trump's Controversial Tweets; US Immigration Policy/Detention Facilities; 2020 Presidential Race; and US-China Trade War Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/15). President Donald Trump's Tweets attacking four Congressional Democratic women of color; conditions for migrants detained at the border; the relative standing and contributions raised by Democratic Party presidential candidates; and the US-China trade war's impact on the Chinese economy were the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
CRB Elects 2019 – 2020 Board of Directors. Returning as board president of the Country Radio Broadcasters is Townsquare Media's Kurt Johnson; Cumulus Media's John Shomby is elected vice president; and SummitMedia's Beverlee Brannigan returns as secretary. Johnson remarks, "This is one of the strongest boards CRB has ever had. [I am] so proud to work with this group of radio and Music Row leaders to present country with the best CRS ever – February 19 – 21, 2020." This year's board of directors are: Chuck Aly (Country Aircheck); Beverlee Brannigan (SummitMedia); Becky Brenner (Albright & O'Malley & Brenner Consulting); Johnny Chiang (KKBQ-FM, Houston); George Couri (Triple 8 Management); Andy Denemark (United Stations); Ryan Dokke (Curb); Mike Dungan (UMG); John Esposito (Warner Music Nashville); Dan Halyburton (Falls Media); Debra Herman (Apple); Steve Hodges (Sony Nashville); Clay Hunnicutt, Dave Kelly (Big Machine Label Group); Jon Loba (BBR/BMG); Mike McVay (McVay Media); Charlie Morgan (Emmis Communications); Rod Phillips (iHeartCountry); Tim Roberts (WYCD, Detroit); Royce Risser (UMG); Bob Richards (Emmis Communications/WLHK, Indianapolis); Brittany Schaffer (Spotify); John Shomby (Cumulus Media); Lesly Simon (Pearl Records); Matt Sunshine (CFSS); Joel Raab (Joel Raab Country Radio/Media); Ryan Redington (Amazon Music); Kristen Williams (Warner); and Charlie Monk continues as a lifetime director emeritus.
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. Many stations are noting the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11 astronaut Neil Armstrong's first-ever "moon walk" (July 20, 1969) with Apollo lunar module pilot Buzz Aldrin. Without question, one of the cleverest promotions is being done by the program director of Cumulus Media Salt Lake City country-formatted KUBL "K-Bull 93" … Travis Moon. As part of the "Travis Moon Walk," which began today (Tuesday, 7/16) at 7:00 am and is expected to end Saturday (7/20) coinciding with that history-making mission, Moon plans to "walk" more than 80 miles to raise money for Salt Lake City-based Shriner's Hospitals For Children. Hoping to travel approximately 16 miles a day, Moon admits it will be a "long, tough walk. The exciting part is the unknown – if I can actually do this physically. I guess we will all find out." While on foot from (Utah cities) Provo to Ogden, Moon will discuss the hospital's purpose and invite listeners to make donations ….. "California Live," a 30-minute lifestyle/entertainment show, which airs on Los Angeles' KNBC-TV (as well as KNTV-TV, San Jose and KNSD-TV, San Diego) has added "On Air with Ryan Seacrest" co-host Sisanie as a correspondent. In her latest segment, Sisanie visits Los Angeles' first cat cafe experience, where customers can drink coffee while cuddling rescue cats that are up for adoption ….. Starting next Monday (7/22), Sytonnia "Toni" Moore joins Cox Media Group Atlanta urban AC WALR "Kiss 104.1" as co-host/news anchor on the (5:00 am – 9:00 am) "Morning Groove" with Art Terrell and Corey "Zooman" Miller. The station's director/branding and programming, Terri Avery, declares, "Toni Moore is the real deal. Her experience and passion for radio is beyond compare and will take 'Kiss 104.1' to new levels." Moore remarks, "This is an incredible opportunity: I'm thrilled and honored to be joining the powerhouse that is Cox Media Group and 'Kiss 104.1.' It's a dream I've had for a few years. It's beyond exciting to see it come to fruition." Moore previously was an on-air personality for cross-town Entercom urban contemporary and sports talk siblings WVEE "V-103" and WZGC "92.9 The Game," as well as a sports reporter for the Atlanta Hawks and Atlanta Falcons ….. Continuing his role as afternoon-drive host, Andy Chanley adds music director duties at California State University – Northridge's KCSN & Saddleback College's KSBR, Mission Viejo (both California, simulcast on 88.5). General manager Patrick Osborn proclaims, "Andy has done it all in this market – mornings, middays, afternoon drive – and has vast experience in all the rock format genres. I'm happy to say we are operating at full strength with great, experienced broadcasters in every position." Program director Marc "Mookie" Kaczor notes, "Andy is such an asset for us. He's an incredible personality and he's been a great sounding-board for me. We're constantly bouncing ideas off of each other." Chanley adds, "There's no station in the world like 88.5 FM. It's a special blend of music and people — on both sides of the transmitter — that makes radio fun again. I'm really proud to be on this team, and beyond excited at the opportunity to help steer the rudder even more." KCSN and KSBR began simulcasting just over two years ago …. Three-year WUSN "US-99" nighttime talent Kimmie Caruba departs the Entercom country outlet. Caruba was previously heard in the same day-part in Phoenix on co-owned KMLE "Country @ 107.9," and she did mid-days in that Arizona market on cluster-mate KALV "Live 101.5." ….. A six-episode podcast on Milwaukee's hip-hop history, "Backspin," debuted yesterday (Monday, 7/15) on Radio Milwaukee triple A WYMS "88Nine." Hosted by hip-hop expert Tyrone Miller ("DJ Bizzon") and "88Nine" music director Justin Barney, "Backspin" provides an insightful view into black America in the late-1970s and early-1980s, through the lens of hip-hop. Miller comments, "The series is about so much more than who recorded Milwaukee's first hip-hop song. It's about the journey of getting to that song. Hip-hop is more than a genre: It's connected everywhere – radio, movies, TV, and fashion. It's in every piece of culture." ….. After departing two months ago from Townsquare Media, "Taste of Country Nights" host Sam Alex surfaced yesterday (Monday, 7/15) on the eponymous "Sam Alex Show." Affiliate licensing and sales for the syndicated program are being handled by Sun Broadcast Group. Alex notes (in Forbes Magazine) that he's "so excited about this new chapter. The world of radio," he opines, "has changed so much in the past decade, with continued consolidations, new technology, and increased competition to discover new music. This change positions me to have full creative control and reach listeners in new ways." ….. KDVV "V-100 Topeka's Rock Leader" 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm talent Randy Raley adds PD duties at the Cumulus Media rocker and classic hits cluster-mate KWIC "99.3 The Eagle." Cumulus Topeka operations manager Amber Lee notes, "Randy brings significant on-air experience and format knowledge to these stations and to our programming team." According to Raley, "I've been a radio geek since an early age – I'm happy to be taking the programming reins at the legendary 'V-100.' Amber Lee has put together an incredible staff and we're going to do great things together." St. Louis Classic Rock Hall of Famer Raley did afternoon drive on St. Louis' KSHE for 13 years and has worked in Kansas City at KYYS "KY-102," and KCFX "101 The Fox." ….. Among the latest affiliates for Envision Networks' "The Wolfman Jack Radio Show" is Metro Radio Berkeley Springs, West Virginia classic hits-oldies WXDC. The show airs Saturday nights starting at 7:00 pm on "Cool 92.9 – Good Times/Great Oldies."
June 2019 PPM Data – Part Four. June 2019 ratings information has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen Audio's June 2019 survey period covered May 23 – June 19. See all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here.
Monday, July 8, 2019
Talkers 2019: Telling the Story Videos Continues Posting Today with "Radio Broadcasting and Podcasting" Panel Discussion. TALKERS is continuing to post key speeches, presentations and sessions from the recent 22nd annual edition of the talk media industry's longest-running and most-important national convention – Talkers 2019: Telling the Story. Today's (7/8) post presents the panel discussion titled, "Radio Broadcasting and Podcasting," featuring (in alphabetical order) Greg Batusic, chief operating officer, PodcastOne; Steven Goldstein, founder/CEO Amplifi Media; Michael Czarnecki, program director, WONK-FM, Washington, DC and iHeartRadio Podcast Channel; and Craig Schwalb, former program director WABC, New York and WPRO, Providence. The discussion is moderated by Mike Kinosian, managing editor/West Coast bureau chief, TALKERS. Already posted: The convention's keynote chat in which TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison interviews Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel star Sean Hannity in a casual one-on-one conversation. The two discuss a variety of topics including Hannity's special relationship with President Donald J. Trump; what it takes to be successful on both radio and television talk media; the challenges facing talk radio in terms of ratings and marketing; Hannity's feelings about his life and career; plus more. The session is introduced by DC Radio Company executive director Victoria Jones. Also already posted on the page: The convention's official opening address titled, "Telling the Story," delivered by one of the industry's great storytellers, Lee Habeeb, host and producer of the tremendously successful syndicated program, "Our American Stories" as well as RAB president/CEO Erica Farber receiving the Woman of the Year award and SiriusXM Satellite Radio star "Cousin" Bruce Morrow receiving the Lifetime Achievement award. The convention took place in New York City on Friday, June 7 and was one of the most positively received in the event's colorful history. TALKERS plans to add one or two videos per day to those posted until all the major events of the conference are posted here at Talkers.com. To see the videos and convention video page, please click here.
'Delaware 105.9' Ends Local Susan Monday Show; Adds Syndicated Programming. The new owner of news/talk WXDE-FM, Lewes "Delaware 105.9" is dropping local talk personality Susan Monday. At the same time, early afternoon host Ed Tyll resigns from the station that Forever Media acquired along with nine other signals from Delmarva Broadcasting for $18.5 million earlier this year. WXDE is adding Salem Radio Network's Mike Gallagher show in the late morning daypart and the Compass Media Networks-syndicated "Markley, van Camp and Robbins" show in the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm slot. Monday is ready for her next opportunity. She can be reached at firstname.lastname@example.com.
SB Nation Radio Launches New Afternoon Show. Current SB Nation Radio personalities Cody Stoots and Jake Asman are being paired up to co-host "The Main Event with Cody Stoots and Jake Asman" show in the SB Nation Radio lineup. The network is operated by Houston-based Gow Media. Stoots has been with Gow' Sportsmap and Asman has been hosting the network's 7:00 pm ET "The Power Hour" program. The new show airs from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm ET. Gow Media and SB Nation Radio CEO David Gow comments, "It's been a joy listening to Jake and Cody in various roles the last couple of years. They both are so versatile. The perfect combination of humor and constructive sports debate. It's going to be a very entertaining program."
Levin Broadcasts from Israel. Pictured above is Westwood One nationally syndicated radio star Mark Levin (left) interviewing British intelligence and military officer Colonel Richard Kemp (right) in the Christian Broadcasting Network studios in Jerusalem. The two discussed Iran, the war in Afghanistan, and Kemp's collaboration with the CIA and Israeli intelligence and defense agencies. Kemp was one of a number of expert guests Levin interviewed during his international remote broadcast.
Confer Radio Institute Opens Today. Today at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, 25 students are beginning the 10-day Confer Radio Talent Institute in which they will learn from a group of more than 40 broadcast professionals, including: Kristin Cantrell, CEO of CapCity Communications and Seven Mountains Media and Jim Loftus, COO of Seven Mountains Media; Lynn Deppen, president of Forever Media; Joe Bell, VP/market manager of Beasley Media Group Philadelphia; Karen Richards, VP/sales, Cumulus Media Harrisburg; Jon Zellner, president of programming operations, National Programming Group, iHeartMedia New York; Shelly Easton, VP of music programming, Entercom Philadelphia; Brian Check, SVP of programming, iHeartMedia Philadelphia; Eric Johnson, program director of Beasley Media Group's WPEN-FM, Philadelphia "97.5 The Fanatic," and many more. The institute is being underwritten by the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters and Kerby Confer to underwrite the institute. Lifelong broadcaster Kirby Confer (pictured at right teaching at a previous institute) says, "We want to make a difference and give this next generation a firm foundation in the industry. We are going to birth a whole new generation of radio people and are so pleased the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters offer both their time and financial support, investing in radio's future." All students will be certified Radio Marketing Professionals after completing the RMP sales training course from the RAB.
Beasley Unveils New XP Studio in Detroit. The new Beasley Media Group broadcast space pictured above will serve as the official headquarters for Beasley's nationally syndicated Esports lifestyle-driven program, "Checkpoint XP." The program is seen daily on Twitch and heard weekly on 74 affiliate stations via the Sun Broadcast Group network, and via a lineup of original content Esports-focused podcasts. Seen sitting in the state-of-the-art studios are (from l-r): "Checkpoint XP" personalities Norris Howard and Joe Sloan, Beasley CEO Caroline Beasley, Checkpoint XP's Robbie Landis and Nate Bender.
Media Staffing Network and Radio Ink Partner for 2019 Radio Sales Compensation Study. The 2019 Radio Sales Compensation Study results will be presented at this year's NAB/RAB Radio Show in Dallas. It's a partnership between Media Staffing Network (MSN) and our friends at Radio Ink. The study begins with a two-minute survey for managers and sellers that launches today (7/8) and runs through Friday, July 26. The goal of the study is to guide radio owners, operators, and managers to develop sales compensation packages that attract – and keep – the best candidates, including those from younger demographics, in today's highly competitive hiring landscape. All survey participants will be entered in a random drawing to win one of three licenses to MSN's Local Sales Recruitment Online Learning Program. Radio Ink EVP and president/publisher Deborah Parenti says, "We are delighted to team up with MSN in a project that will hopefully help provide guidance, especially to smaller groups and individual stations, in crafting the kind of compensation packages that encourage young people to consider radio sales as a career path. With so much competition from digital media, making radio 'sexier' to prospective hires has to, first and foremost, include a more competitive pay structure." To access the survey, click here.
WTEM, Washington Adds FOX Sports Radio Programming. Washington, DC sports talker WTEM "The Team 980" adds evening and overnight programming from FOX Sports Radio to its daily program schedule. Effective immediately, the Radio One-owned station begins airing "The Odd Couple with Chris Broussard and Rob Parker" in the 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm slot, "The Jason Smith Show with Mike Harmon" from 10:00 pm to 2:00 am, and "The Ben Maller Show" in the 2:00 am to 6:00 am daypart. The station also airs FOX Sports Radio's full lineup of weekend programming when play-by-play sports is not on the schedule.
NAB to Honor Mary Quass with National Radio Award. At this year's NAB Radio Show in Dallas, NRG Media chairman and CEO Mary Quass will receive the National Radio Award from the National Association of Broadcasters. The award – given for "outstanding leadership in the radio industry" – will be presented during the September 25 luncheon program, "2020 and Beyond: Insights from the Top." NAB president and CEO Gordon Smith says, "We are pleased to honor Mary Quass for her many achievements and impact on radio. She is a true catalyst in our industry who exemplifies the meaning of the National Radio Award through her leadership, integrity and success."
Trump's Fourth of July Celebration, 2020 Presidential Race, Iran Nuclear Ambitions, California Earthquakes, U.K. Ambassador's Trump Criticisms, Jeffrey Epstein Arrest, and U.S. Women's Soccer Victory Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The Washington, DC Fourth of July celebration, including President Trump's speech and the military component; the Democrats vying to challenge Trump in 2020; Iran's uranium enrichment program and tensions with the U.S.; the earthquakes in Southern California since the July 4 temblor; British Ambassador Kim Darroch's criticism of President Trump; the arrest of billionaire Jeffrey Epstein on sexual assault charges; and the U.S. Women's Soccer team's World Cup victory were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the holiday weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Air personality Jasmine Lee is named co-host of the "Big Mama and the Wild Bunch" morning show on Beasley Media Group's CHR WXKB, Fort Myers "B103.9." She was most recently morning host at Stillwater Broadcasting's CHR KSPI-FM, Stillwater, Oklahoma. WXKB operations manager Adam Star comments, "Jasmine has great charm and charisma on the air. Her energy and fun personality is infectious. She is the final piece that we were looking to add to 'Big Mama and The Wild Bunch Morning Show.'"…..In the Salisbury-Ocean City, Maryland market, Don Harrison is the new brand manager at Adams Radio's rock WZBH "The Beach" and classic rock WGBG "Big 107.7." He was most recently operations manager at Townsquare Media's operations in the Cheyenne and Laramie, Wyoming markets. Harrison says, "I'm honored to join Adams Radio Group and be working with the entire team. It's refreshing to be part of a company that believes in local radio, super-serving the community, and creating a great working environment. I also can't wait to team up with Lisa Layne – she's a rock star."…..iHeartMedia Boston brings Hisham Fayed aboard as director of marketing to work with the cluster's music brands: WXKS-FM "Kiss 108," WJMN-FM "JAM'N 94.5," WBWL-FM "101.7 The Bull," WZLX-FM, and WKAF-FM. In this role, Fayed will work closely with the promotions, events, sales, and programming teams in developing and executing marketing plans. iHeartMedia VP of marketing Adam Ralston says, "Hisham has a proven track record of impactful marketing campaign creation and execution in Boston. We are thrilled to add him to our superstar marketing team, and we know he will contribute to our brands' ongoing success."
Tuesday, September 25, 2018
It's a New Deal for Cumulus Programmer Bill Hess. Programming pro Bill Hess and Cumulus Media sign a new, multi-year contract extension. Hess is the company's vice president of news/talk, program director for WMAL-AM/FM, Washington, and operations manager for the Washington, DC cluster. During his 41-year career, Hess has programmed WTEM, Washington; WHJJ, Providence; and WHYN-AM/FM, Springfield, Massachusetts. He served as SVP of programming for Air America Media and has programmed music outlets WASH and WBIG in Washington. Cumulus Media Washington VP/market manager Jake McCann says, "This is an exciting time for news/talk in our nation's capital and we have the privilege of being led by one of the strongest program directors in the country. Under Bill Hess' leadership and hands-on approach, WMAL has consistently grown ratings. He works daily with on-air staff to guarantee they are delivering a top-level product to their audience."
Stone Canyon Buys Northern Arizona Station Group. This deal has three broadcast management pros organized as Stone Canyon Radio and Marketing, LLC buying four Northern Arizona signals from Grenax II Broadcasting for an as yet undisclosed sum. The stations are: news/talk KBTK-FM/K246AA "97.1 The Big Talker," country KSED "107.5 KOLT Country," classic rock KWMX "The Wolf-Classic Rock 96.7," and 80s rock KFLX "Rewind 92.5/104.1." Stone Canyon's principals are former Cherry Creek Media CEO Joe Schwartz (left), Emmis SVP John Beck (right), and Withers Broadcasting and Dana Communications president Dana Withers (center). Schwartz states, "This is a wonderful opportunity for three veteran broadcasters to pool our years of broadcast experience to create exceptional programming, on-the-street marketing, top digital assets, and to bring the best advertising services available to the Flagstaff-Prescott area. In addition, I can't wait to work with current VP & general manager Stan Pierce and his team." Schwartz will be relocating to the Flagstaff area to work with the cluster team and Beck and Withers will remain in their current positions in St. Louis and Mt. Vernon, respectively. The start of an LMA is expected to be announced in the near future.
WMAL's Mary Walter to Host Fisher House Foundation's Talk Radio Special. The Fisher House Foundation's annual talk radio special, "Home Away from Home – The Fisher House Story," is being hosted this year by WMAL-AM/FM, Washington morning co-host Mary Walter. The Fisher House Foundation and The Jeff Wyatt Group are producing the program for talk stations around the country to be aired any time from Veterans Day (11/11) through the holidays. Regular TALKERS readers are aware that the Fisher House program provides "a home away from home" for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. The homes provide temporary, free lodging so families can be close to their loved ones during a medical crisis. This year's three-hour radio special will feature stories of our nation's heroes, families who serve by their side, and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey. Show producer Jeff Wyatt says Mary Walter's love of the military will add to the quality of the program. "Her talent, well known support for our military, and broad base of listening across the U.S. makes her a great fit to support our wounded, injured, and ill service members and their families." Stations interested in the program can contact Wyatt at: email@example.com
TALKERS News Notes. Rhode Island talk radio host John DePetro is celebrating 20 years on talk radio in the Ocean State this month. DePetro says that he was working part-time air shifts on WABC, New York while also serving as national sales manager for WABC and sister WPLJ when he was offered a weekend show on WHJJ, Providence in his home state. After a few months, he took over the full-time job of mid-morning host on WHJJ in January of 1999. He currently is heard in Rhode Island on WNRI, Woonsocket, Rhode Island.…..iHeartMedia announces the fruit of its partnership with technology platform creators Jelli and Foursquare is a new attribution product for broadcast radio that will offer marketers "a unique combination of iHeartMedia's massive reach and Jelli's programmatic buying capabilities, with the attribution and insights tools from location technology company Foursquare." iHeartMedia says this is the next step in its effort to make radio easier to buy and measure. It says it "invested in Jelli's programmatic platform to make the purchase of data driven radio campaigns as easy as digital, and now with the addition of Foursquare, more in-depth campaign measurement and real-world attribution data is now available to advertisers who buy via Jelli's demand side platform SpotPlan." iHM president of revenue and data operations Brian Kaminsky adds, "This initiative with Foursquare and Jelli is the next evolution in the development of our platform, providing retailers and QSRs the same measurement and accountability for broadcast radio as Google is in search and Facebook is in social."…..Entercom and Telemundo's KTMD-TV, Houston announce a multi-platform media partnership that includes distribution of content across all partner channels, including KTMD-TV and Entercom's Houston stations sports talk KILT-AM "Sports Radio 610" and KIKK "CBS Sports Radio 650," plus country KILT-FM, Spanish KLOL, and hot AC KHMX. Content will also be distributed across each entity's websites and social media platforms. Entercom Houston SVP and market manager Sarah Frazier says, "We are excited to partner with Telemundo and further serve our community with enhanced coverage. We're looking forward to continue bringing our listeners improved access and coverage of live, local news."…..Sun & Fun Media announces it has hired Tim Closson to join the company as a senior AE. He was previously manager of affiliate sales for country & sports at Westwood One. Sun & Fun Media offers a "suite of products and services designed to increase sales, improve ratings, and reduce expenses for 100% barter."…..Donna Hardwick is appointed chief marketing officer for PRX, the public media program supplier that recently merged with PRI. Hardwick was most recently senior director of communications & distribution for ITVS.
Kavanaugh Assault Allegations/Cruz Restaurant Protest, Trump-Russia Investigation/Rosenstein's Status, Midterm Elections, U.S.-China Trade War, Iran Threatens Attacks, NFL Action, and MLB Playoff Push Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (9/24). The allegations of sexual assault against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh and the related restaurant protest that forced Senator Ted Cruz and his wife to leave; the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents and the related uncertainty over the status of Deputy AG Rod Rosenstein; the coming midterm elections; the trade war between the U.S. and China; Iran's threats against Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the U.S. after the deadly attacks on its military parade; the weekend's NFL action; and the Major League Baseball playoff push 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 the Charlotte market, Beasley Media Group announces promotions at urban contemporary WBAV "V 101.9" and hip hop WPEG "Power 98." Brian "Mr. Incognito" Robinson is upped to program director for both stations. He was most recently APD for WPEG and previously held the music director, afternoon drive host, and morning drive co-host positions. At the same time, the company bumps Janine Davis up from traffic correspondent for both stations to midday personality at "V 101.9." Nikki "Ya Girl Nikki" Davis rises from evening host to afternoon drive personality on "Power 98." Finally, John Reynolds is promoted to operations manager for the entire cluster. Reynolds most recently served as the program director and operations manager at CHR WNKS "KISS 95.1" and Adult contemporary WKQC "K 104.7." Beasley Charlotte VP and market manager Bill Schoening comments, "John is an exceptional leader and very committed to the success of all of our Beasley Media Group Charlotte radio stations. I am looking forward to seeing him continue to build our strong brands for many years to come."…..The Envision Networks-syndicated "Collin Raye's Rewind Country" adds new affiliate stations WVWF-FM, Waverly, Tennessee and WPAY-FM, Garrison, Kentucky. "Rewind Country" is a daily, one-minute vignette that "highlights amazing stories behind the greatest country hits, shared by Raye and friends such as Dolly Parton, John Michael Montgomery, and Lorrie Morgan…..ABC Radio, Skyview Networks, and Front and Center Entertainment are introducing radio versions of the PBS programs "The Front and Center Sessions" — for country stations — and "The Speakeasy Sessions" for rock outlets. Both series will feature 12, two-hour programs that are being produced exclusively for ABC Radio's distribution. ABC Radio VP and general manager Steve Jones says, "We are excited to work with today's greatest performers in country and classic rock music. We're taking a wealth of content and weaving it into fast-paced radio programming that features great music and riveting behind-the-scenes stories and never-before-shared anecdotes from some of the biggest country and rock stars."…..Westwood One is launching a new urban morning show on its 24/7 network starring former WHQT, Miami "Hot 105 FM" personality Rick Party (right) and former WALR, Atlanta "Kiss 104.1" jock Sasha the Diva (left). Comedian Benji Brown is also named as part of the cast. WWO says it has 20-plus stations initially lined up to carry the program that is targeted to females 35-44.
Friday, February 17, 2017
KMOX, St. Louis Extends Calhoun and Ackerman. St. Louis heritage news/talk KMOX announces it has signed staffers Michael Calhoun and Tom Ackerman to new, multi-year contracts that include some new duties for both. Calhoun and Ackerman are part of the CBS RADIO station's "Total Information AM" morning drive program – Calhoun as co-host and news reporter and Ackerman as a personality and the station's sports director. KMOX program director Steve Moore states, "Tom and Michael are talented personalities who play integral roles at the station. Tom was born and raised in St. Louis so reporting the news and sports in the city he loves is a natural progression for him. Michael is an award-winning field reporter who brings a unique voice to KMOX that instantly connects with listeners." Ackerman expands his role to serve as co-host of "Total Information AM" alongside Debbie Monterrey and Calhoun. Calhoun adds field and spot news reporting to his responsibilities. Calhoun will also continue to serve as KMOX's lead reporter on St. Louis' "Start Up, Entrepreneurs and Innovation" initiatives and continue to host "Nothing Impossible," a show that informs listeners about how innovators are transforming and revitalizing the St. Louis region.
Grayson Exits KMOX; Headed for Crosstown KTRS? A report by Joe Holleman in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says that Jon Grayson has exited CBS RADIO's news/talk KMOX where he was hosting the 12:00 midnight to 4:00 am show. Grayson's "Overnight America" show had been syndicated nationally in a deal with Westwood One but that was shut down at the end of 2016. Now, after 16 years at KMOX, Grayson may be headed across the street to news/talker KTRS. Holleman reports that's the industry chatter. KTRS reportedly has an opening for the 10:00 am to 1:00 pm show. The station also recently hired former KMOX personality Doug McElvein.
Madison Talk Host Mitch Henck Moves Forward on Digital Platform. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian writes about Madison talk radio personality Mitch Henck – one of a number of personalities cut free with the demise of the progressive talk format on iHeartMedia's WXXM, Madison last fall. Henck has recently launched the web-based platform MadisonTalks.com, where his program and others continue to provide the market with "outside the box" digital content. Though he was heard on WXXM for years, Henck says his political leanings are not so easily qualified. "I am center-right on economics and more libertarian on social issues. I like splitting hairs and challenging callers to make their argument." Read the whole story here.
11th Annual 'Hold Their Feet to the Fire' Radio Row Scheduled for June 28-29. This year's 11th annual Hold Their Feet to the Fire/Let's Make America Great Again radio row broadcast will take place on June 28 and 29 at the Phoenix Park Hotel in Washington. The Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) is again producing the event at which talk hosts from across the country will broadcast live, debating immigration policy while interviewing members of congress, law enforcement officials, experts, activists, White House officials and those who live and work along the southern border. FAIR executive director Bob Dane states, "This event has always been about holding our elected leaders accountable and educating the public. In particular, this year, lawmakers must be reminded that Americans strongly support President Trump's immigration policies. Otherwise, the noise made by vocal special interests – which the mainstream media loves to amplify – will dominate. Talk radio remains the bullhorn of the 'silent' majority." Reservations are required and hosts/producers should contact event manager Cassie Williams at 202-328-7004 or firstname.lastname@example.com to reserve their spot. There is no cost to attend and all technical engineering and expenses are taken care of by FAIR. Congressional guests, activists, high-profile media personalities, and immigration experts will be in attendance and available throughout the event for wall-to-wall interviews with an expected crowd of 60 talk hosts.
FCC Chairman Ajit Pai Touts AM Revitalization at NABA Symposium. The new chairman of the Federal Communications Commission addressed the attendees at yesterday's "Future of Radio and Audio" symposium presented by the North American Broadcasters Association. Among the topics he discussed was AM revitalization. He kicked that off by stating, "It's no secret that many stations in the AM band are struggling. The band's overall listenership has declined, and advertising revenues along with it. This stems mainly from the band's technical problems. Every day, it seems harder to get a quality AM signal." Pai boiled his solution down to the two-pronged approach of making it easier for AM operators to acquire FM translators and encouraging the activation and use of FM chips in smartphones. Regarding FM translators, Pai said AM station owners have complained that it can be difficult finding a location for translators. "That's why we've proposed a new reform that my fellow Commissioners and I will vote on next week. This measure would give AM stations greater flexibility in siting their translators. It's a small step that would be a big help to AM broadcasters. This year, we also plan to open two new windows in which AM stations that still don't have an FM translator can apply directly to the FCC to get one authorized. And we'll keep working on ways to improve signal quality on the AM band and reduce AM broadcasters' operating costs." As for FM chips in smartphones, Pai said he's against mandating those chips be activated – he's a free-market guy who doesn't approve of such a heavy-handed approach, and he thinks it's outside of the FCC's purview. He noted that in the U.S., "only about 44% of the top-selling smartphones in the United States have activated FM chips, and the percentage is lower in Canada. By comparison, in Mexico that number is about 80%…[but] despite the low numbers, we are seeing progress; in the last two years, the percentage of top-selling smartphones in the United States that have activated FM chips has risen from less than 25% to 44%."
Andy Pollin Joins WJFK-FM, Washington for Weekends and Fill-Ins. Washington, DC sports talk personality Andy Pollin is no longer a free agent. The market sports media figure was recently set free by Red Zebra's WTEM "ESPN 908" after almost 25 years at the signal. Now, he's being heard on CBS RADIO's crosstown WJFK-FM on weekends and in fill-in situations. The Washington Post reports that Pollin will host a regular Saturday show with (also former WTEM) personality Thom Loverro from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon starting February 25. WJFK-FM program director Chris Kinard tells the Post, "It just gives us more great talent. You can never have enough good people, and to have someone the caliber of Andy Pollin available is a pretty rare thing. He hasn't been available for 25 years, because he's done such a good job. So to have someone like that available, we'd be crazy not to work something out with him."
WQAM, Miami Re-Ups with the Miami Hurricanes. Miami sports talker WQAM inks a new multi-year deal to continue serving as the flagship station for University of Miami football and men's basketball. Pictured at the contract signing in Coral Gables on Thursday (2/16) are (from l-r): WQAM program director Ryan Maguire, "The Voice of the Hurricanes" Joe Zagacki, WQAM host Curtis Stevenson, Miami football coach Mark Richt, Miami athletic director Blake James, and WQAM host Joe Rose.
Nielsen: 2016 Election Year Good for News Radio. Ratings giant Nielsen issues data – illustrated in the graphic above – showing the rise in listenership to news radio during the 2016 election year. Nielsen notes that just as in the previous election year of 2012, the number of people tuning in to all-news stations, news/talk stations and public radio NPR affiliates spiked, making it the most-listened-to radio format by persons 6+ in PPM markets during 2016.
Allegations of Trump Campaign's Russia Connections and Michael T. Flynn's Resignation Top News Talk Stories for Week of February 13-17. The allegations that members of the Trump campaign were in contact with Russian agents prior to Donald Trump's inauguration and the subsequent resignation of National Security Advisor Michael T. Flynn tied for the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 was the Trump travel ban issue and the related Mexican wall matter. Coming in at #3 was President Trump's contentious relationship with the news media, followed by Andrew Puzder's withdrawal as nominee for labor secretary 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.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Chicago media maven Robert Feder reports that Windy City radio programming pro Patty Martin is joining digital platform AccuRadio to program its world music and Celtic channels. He says she'll also be involved in programming adult rock and adult alternative formats. Martin – who served in the market programming Hubbard's classic hits WDRV and CBS RADIO's triple A WXRT – tells Feder, "It's all the fun of radio programming without the headaches!"…..KSWD, Los Angeles "100.3 The Sound" midday personality "Uncle Joe" Benson signs a new contract to continue with the Entercom classic rock station. Program director Dave Beasing says, "Joe is the best-known and most-loved classic rock DJ in Los Angeles. The reason is simple. He's literally written the book on classic rock, and he's one of the nicest people you'll ever meet."…..A new Sunday night show dedicated to the women of alternative rock is launching on Cumulus Media's alternative KCJK, Kansas City "X1015" featuring host Lauren O'Neil…..iHeartMedia Fort Myers announces media personalities Lulu and Lala are joining hot AC WZJZ "Y100.1, 90s to Now" as 7:00 pm to 12:00 midnight hosts effective immediately. The station says, "The 'Y100.1' night show with Lulu and Lala will feature the dynamic pair's unique take on pop culture news and fun antics with listeners, along with special celebrity guest interviews and Y100.1's unique blend of today's hits and 90's throwbacks."
Friday, January 20, 2017
Shocker: Dan Snyder's WTEM, Washington Parts Ways with Andy Pollin. Respected Washington, DC sports talk radio personality Andy Pollin was notified by management that his contract with WTEM, Washington "ESPN 980" – coming to an end next month – would not be renewed and that his Thursday afternoon edition of "The Sports Reporters" with co-host Steve Czaban was his last. Pollin had been on the air talking sports in DC for the past 25 years. Czaban will go forward as solo host of the afternoon drive show. The Washington Post's Dan Steinberg covers the story and Pollin tells him, "I'm not in any way bitter about this. I'm disappointed that it wouldn't continue. I thought Czabe and I were humming along there in our second run, but it didn't happen. That's life." Czaban tweeted that he is "gutted" by management's decision. He says, "Andy started this station 25 years ago, and he has done more and seen more than you can imagine in this business. He hired me off a driving range in 1994, and I owe my entire career in sports radio to him from the opportunities that followed." Read Steinberg's Post column here.
Mark Mason Returns to KEX, Portland for New Midday Talk Show. Portland radio personality Mark Mason is returning after a three-year hiatus to iHeartMedia's "News Radio 1190" KEX to host a new midday talk show, beginning Monday (1/23). Mason co-hosted the "Mark & Dave" show with Dave Anderson on the station for 18 years. Anderson lost his battle with pancreatic cancer last year. Mason says, "After I lost my good friend and co-host Dave Anderson, my perspective on life changed and I wanted to return to the Portland community that embraced me. I'm excited to return to the KEX family and bring my 100% hate-free brand of talk radio back to Portland." KEX says the new 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm program will offer Mason's "uplifting perspective on pop culture, national news, politics and currents events, as well as reports on local news, traffic and weather." KEX program director Cort Webber comments, "We are thrilled to have Mark back home at KEX where he belongs. The place just hasn't been the same without him. We're excited to kick off a new year and a new administration with a new show from an old friend." Mason continues to serve as the public address announcer for the Portland Trailblazers, a role he has held for the past 21 years.
Emmis Promotes Conner to Lead Network Indiana. Longtime Emmis Terre Haute general manager James Conner is taking over the general manager role for the company's Network Indiana, effective January 30. Network Indiana is a statewide service providing news, sports and business programming to affiliated radio stations. Emmis Indianapolis senior vice president and general manager Chuck Williams states, "James will lead Network Indiana with a mission to continue our history of building meaningful value with our Network Indiana team and for our affiliates. Network Indiana is a strong brand and an important ingredient in the success of our Emmis Indianapolis Radio Division. James will be focused on helping our team grow Network Indiana relationships, operations and of course, growing value for this historic Emmis Brand." The company says Conner has successfully managed the radio stations in Terre Haute the last 22 years, noting that the cluster has consistently accounted for more than 40% of the market revenue.
Trump Inauguration Top News/Talk Story for Week of January 16-20, 2017. The Inauguration of the 45th President of the United States and the protests against Donald Trump tied for the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the last days of the Barack Obama presidency. Coming in at #3 was the several cabinet confirmation hearings, followed by the Chelsea Manning commutation 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.
Covering the Trump Inauguration. Pictured above are staffers from two of the radio networks covering the Inauguration of the 45th President of the United States in Washington DC today (1/20). At left are (from left to right) Jeff Matzka, Salem Radio News chief engineer; Linda Kenyon, SRN U.S. Senate correspondent, and Greg Clugston, SRN News White House correspondent. At right is Westwood One News correspondent Bob Costantini in position at Westwood One's broadcast post overlooking the Inauguration at the West front of the Capitol.
Beasley Names Randy Bliss to Programming Role and Promotes Tap Money in Fayetteville. At the Fayetteville, North Carolina cluster of Beasley Media Group, a new programmer comes aboard and another adds new PD duties. First, Randy Bliss joins the company as operations manager of the Fayetteville cluster, he takes on the program director role at adult contemporary WAZZ-AM/W232CI "Sunny 94.3," and he'll host the afternoon drive show on country WKML. Market manager Erika Beasley comments, "Randy brings his hands-on experience and success in a number of formats, which we welcome in Fayetteville. From his extensive research skills to his ability to incorporate both sales and programming to ensure success, Randy has proven he is a tried-and-true radio pro!" At the same time, hip hop WZFX "FOXY 99" program director Tap Money adds programming duties for sister rhythmic oldies WUKS "Old School 107.7 JAMZ" to his responsibilities. Beasley EVP of programming Justin Chase states, "Beasley is an organization that enjoys promoting good people from within and it is especially exciting when it's a rock star like Tap Money! Tap is a radio hero who has lifted WZFX to an entirely new level in ratings and revenue. We have no doubt he will improve our urban footprint in Fayetteville as he begins working with WUKS."
Cassiday Proctor Joins 106.5 The Arch's 'Spencer's Neighborhood' Morning Show. In St. Louis, radio personality Cassiday Proctor becomes a cast member on the "Spencer's Neighborhood" show at Hubbard Radio's adult hits WARH "106.5 The Arch," effective January 30. Proctor was most recently with Entercom in Atlanta appearing on the WSTR "Star 94" morning program. During her career she's served with CBS RADIO in Charlotte where she also did television, hosting "The Edge" on WCCB-TV. WARH program director Scott Roddy says, "Hubbard is known to be the platinum standard for live, local talent. Cassiday is not only pure class, but hilariously fun and genuine – the perfect complement to Spencer's and Brando's humor."
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. The WMMS, Cleveland-based "Rover's Morning Glory" show is airing on iHeartMedia's rock WBFX, Grand Rapids "101.3 The Brew," effective Monday (1/23). Shane "Rover" French comments, "We're excited to be on '101.3 The Brew' in Grand Rapids, a city that has more craft beer breweries than anywhere else on the planet. It's a perfect match since my staff has consumed more craft beer than any other radio show on the planet."…..In Jacksonville, iHeartMedia debuts the new "Rumba, #1 Para Éxitos y Música Variada" simulcasting on translator W295AZ at 106.9 FM and the HD2 channel of country WQIK. Rumba's broadcasting a variety of Spanish tropical music…..Talk about dedication to the cause, in Peoria, WSWT PD and morning host Randy Rundle and WXCL afternoon personality Joe Greenwood spent 12 hours overnight in cardboard boxes in 25-degree weather to call attention to the homelessness problem in Peoria. The "Gimme Shelter – A Night to End Homelessness" event took place last Friday and together the two jocks raised $2,675. The event, as a whole, exceeded its goal of $50,000 – hitting the $63,000 mark. Proceeds benefit the South Side Office of Concern and its efforts to provide permanent, supportive housing and to end homelessness in the community…..CBS RADIO Houston and BBVA Compass are teaming up to host "Live Bright Bash," a free stadium party tomorrow (1/21) for city ambassadors and volunteers during Super Bowl week. The event – intended to inspire the community to welcome visitors and encourage local volunteerism – will feature live music and speeches from city leaders and radio hosts. Radio personalities from KILT-FM, KHMX-FM, KLOL-FM, and KILT-AM will be on hand to reinforce the "Live Bright" message…..CBS RADIO triple A WXRT, Chicago "93XRT" is presenting two nights with Los Lobos at the Tivoli Theatre on February 15 and 16. XRT music director Kelly Ransford says, "Long-time XRT favorite Los Lobos is the ideal band for two nights of high-energy fun at the historic Tivoli Theatre in Aurora. Emerging from East LA in the early '80s, Los Lobos has become one of America's greatest live rock 'n' roll bands and we couldn't be more thrilled to host them for two special shows."
Laura Alaina Visits 'NASH Nights Live.' Stopping by the NASH Campus in Nashville on Thursday evening (1/19) was Mercury Nashville/19/Interscope Records artist Lauren Alaina (center) pictured here with "NASH Nights Live" co-hosts Shawn Parr (right) and Elaina Smith (left). Alaina chatted about her new album, Road Less Traveled.
Thursday, September 22, 2016
NAB/RAB Radio Show: 'A Snapshot of Where the Radio Industry Is.' Radio consultant Holland Cooke is in Nashville covering the NAB/RAB Radio Show for TALKERS and he presents a compact report of some of day one's key takeaways. Among them are sound bites from radio's captains of industry and key players from the "Broadcast Finance Forecast 2016 Leadership Breakfast." Also included are Cooke's notes from Edison Research's "Share the Road: The Changing In-Car Audio Space" report presented at Tuesday's RAIN Summit and David Oxenford's invaluable "Legal Snapshot: Issues for Audio Services" presentation from that event. See it all here.
Steve Czaban Exits SB Nation Radio. Washington, DC-based sports media pro Steve Czaban blogs that his contract with SB Nation Radio – formerly Yahoo! Sports Radio – has not been renewed so he's ended his morning radio show there. Czaban writes, "I want to thank David Gow, Craig Larson, and the rest of the network for having me for 6 great years. They always treated me right, and let me do the kind of show that I wanted to do, a show that I was energized to do every morning." Czaban remains on the air as he also co-hosts the afternoon drive "Sports Reporters" show on Red Zebra's WTEM, Washington "ESPN 980" with Andy Pollin.
Radio Tips Wells Fargo Troubles. Sunday evening talk host Walter Sterling – heard on CBS RADIO's WPHT, Philadelphia – says he was the first to reveal the Wells Fargo apparent fee scam. The federal investigation has resulted in the CEO being grilled before Congress and more than 5,000 Wells Fargo employees being let go for opening fake accounts and charging fees to those accounts. Sterling says, "I noticed charge after charge on my Wells account that made no sense and I yelled about it. On my show, my goal was not to go after any one bank but to empathize with the listener who is being screwed by their bank. I also talk about my suspicious cell phone bill and last week the FCC announced an investigation of Verizon fees." Sterling says his show is unique because he doesn't talk election politics, "I talk about the politics of my life: the phone bill, bank nonsense, cheap relatives, parent-teacher conferences and the 11-year-old who doesn't like the way I make her lunch."
The Presidential Race, Cop Shootings and Protests in Charlotte and Tulsa, NYC/NJ/Minn. Terror Attacks Aftermath, Islamic State Chemical Weapons Use, Weiner Teen Sexting Accusation, Pitt-Jolie Divorce, and Major League Baseball Playoff Push Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (9/21). The activities of presidential candidates Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump; the fatal shootings of black men in Charlotte and Tulsa and the violent protests rocking Charlotte; the aftermath of last weekend's bombings in New York, the bombs found in New Jersey and the stabbings in St. Cloud, Minnesota; the U.S. military's determination that Islamic State is using chemical weapons; allegations that Anthony Weiner had been sexting a 15-year-old girl; the flap over Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt's divorce; and the playoff push in Major League Baseball were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
WPHT, Philadelphia's Rich Zeoli Welcomes New Daughter. Afternoon drive personality Rich Zeoli spent the past couple of weeks doing his WPHT, Philadelphia from Utah – via the reliable Comrex Access – while going through the process of adopting his new daughter Clare Megan Zeoli (pictured with dad here). Zeoli, who also adopted a son named Patrick in 2014, tells TALKERS, "I was fortunate enough to interview Ivanka Trump about her maternity leave plan while feeding my daughter from my makeshift Utah studio…a closet! Irony?"
'Heard' at the RAIN Summit. While media consultant Holland Cooke is covering the panels and presentations taking place at this week's NAB/RAB Radio Show in Nashville, TALKERS special features correspondent Jeff McKay is talking to people in the hallways about what's being said at the events. From yesterday's day one of the annual convention, click here to see what people are telling Jeff.
Job Opportunities at WBT and WLNK in Charlotte. There are three positions available at Greater Media's Charlotte operations. First, News Talk 1110 WBT is looking for a fun, outgoing, hands-on and dedicated individual with entry level event planning experience for a full-time position in our Marketing and Promotions Department. This position works to ensure the timely and successful execution of promotions, contests and events through teamwork and coordination with other departments and staff. See more about that position here. Second, WBT/WLNK seek part-time Event Relations Team Members. They are committed to providing extraordinary customer service to WBT/WLNK radio station listeners and event guests at WBT or WLNK sanctioned events. Find more here. And last, News Talk 1110 WBT and 107.9 The Link is looking for an outgoing, sharp, dedicated individual for a full-time, seasonal position as our Ice Rink Project Leader. The project leader will help in the planning, building, operation, and execution of the Holiday Outdoor Ice Rink, to ensure the successful execution of the promotion through guidance, teamwork, and coordination with other staff. Find out more about that here.
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.
Thursday, July 14, 2016
KNBR Staffers Picket at AT&T Park Over Wage Negotiations. It's been almost two years since the staffers at Cumulus Media's sports talker KNBR, San Francisco voted to unionize under SAG-AFTRA, but negotiations between the union and the company are moving slowly. A number of Cumulus employees picketed outside AT&T Park — home of the MLB's Giants (whose games are broadcast on KNBR) — on Wednesday to draw attention to their case. According to a story in the San Francisco Chronicle, the union is seeking a minimum wage of $17 an hour for off-air staff and $30 an hour for on-air talent. Cumulus has reportedly countered with the new San Francisco minimum wage of $13 an hour, plus 1%. Despite Cumulus Media's enormous corporate debt, KNBR staffers say the station is making plenty of money. The union commissioned a study that indicates the station brings in the fifth-most revenue of Cumulus' 453 stations. SAG-AFTRA San Francisco executive director Len Egert tells the paper that a work stoppage is not out of the question. The story notes that when sister news/talk station KGO voted to unionize, contract negotiations took four years before a pact was finally signed. Read the SFGate story here.
NPR and iHeartMedia Strike Deal for Streaming. This new relationship between iHeartMedia and NPR will allow NPR's more than 260 member stations to make their live news/talk programming available via iHeartRadio. iHM says that "in support of the public radio mission, all stations that join iHeartRadio will also have access to 50% of their individual iHeartRadio landing page's digital banner inventory to encourage listeners to donate and directly support the station's public programming." iHeartRadio & iHeartMedia Networks president Darren Davis comments, "The addition of NPR's member stations helps to create even more signature audio content for iHeartRadio listeners. By joining forces, it is the perfect way for public radio stations to reach listeners on new platforms and to provide iHeartRadio users with additional high-quality news/talk programming wherever they are."
Radio Business Reacts to Music Biz Study on Millennial Listening Habits. The release of the study from Music Biz and LOOP titled "Music & Millennials" is raising the hackles of AM/FM radio operators, some of whom are vigorously challenging the study's findings. The study, made available to members of the Music Biz Consumer Insights portal, was conducted by LOOP (which stands for Lots Of Online People) in May and used information from 3,014 U.S. respondents. It should be noted that the summary made public focuses on 15-19 year olds, so any comparison to the larger group of Millennials – often described as those between 18 and 35 – cited in other studies, is a mismatch from the start. Regardless, here are some of the study's findings: AM/FM radio reaches 65% of 15-19 year olds. That's much lower than the 93% reach of 18-34 year olds Nielsen says are reached by AM/FM. The Music Biz study reports that 15-19 year olds only spend 12% of their time with AM/FM radio. It also concludes that, for the first time, YouTube is the primary source of new music discovery, surpassing AM/FM radio. That conflicts with other research that traditionally serves the radio industry. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison had the following to say about the topic at this morning's editorial meeting, "As Bob Dylan wrote and sang, 'You don't need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows.' This is as much a matter of using your powers of observation, day-to-day experience and gut-based intuition to read the tea leaves on the generational divide impacting both radio and music. All of these so-called official surveys and research studies are as wrong as they are right. They are like out-of-date GPS systems. Now is not the time for the radio industry to seek temporary victory through the use of limited statistical surveys and numbers-bending persuasion, but rather to find sustainable truth through accurate, first-hand observation and intelligence. With all due respect to Nielsen, the worst thing radio can do in 2016 is put its head in the sand of comforting statistics that fly in the face of observation and reality. We have work to do to remedy a growing and inevitable problem facing this industry."
The Presidential Race, Police Violence Against Blacks/Dallas Cop Slayings Aftermath, Hillary Clinton Email Investigation, and Pokemon Go Craze Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/13). The activities of presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton; deadly violence against blacks at the hands of police and the aftermath of the slaying of five Dallas police officers last week; ongoing talk about the FBI investigation into Hillary Clinton's use of a private email server for State Department business; and the Pokemon Go game that's sweeping the nation were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Radio One Announces Plans to Cover RNC and DNC Conventions 'From the Black Perspective.' The largest Black-owned and targeted media company is announcing it will cover the Republican and Democratic National Conventions "from the Black perspective." Host Roland Martin will broadcast TV One's "News One Now" live from the convention sites each morning at 7:00 ET. The company also says WKYS, Washington midday personality EZ Street will provide daily live coverage from the convention floor, along with recaps on all of Reach Media's nationally syndicated morning shows. Radio One VP of corporate communications Yashima White AziLove states, "There couldn't be a more critical time in our country for Black media to engage in the political process. More now than ever the outcry of Black people continues to reverberate throughout this country for equality, justice and reform. Our entire platform will be represented at each convention to ensure our community is informed of each presidential nominee's plan to address the issues plaguing America, especially those that impact daily Black life. "
Redskins Great John Riggins to Co-Host Pre-Game Show on 'ESPN 980' in Washington. NFL Hall of Famer and Washington Redskins great John Riggins is joining Red Zebra Broadcasting's WTEM, Washington "ESPN 980" for the co-host role on the official "Washington Redskins Pregame Show." The Super Bowl XVII MVP will work with WTEM's Kevin Sheehan. Riggins says, "I solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God, well, most of the time… maybe… I think. Oh, yeah, El Riggo is back. And, that means the circus is back in town!" Riggins will also serve as a contributor to regularly scheduled "ESPN 980" shows.
SiriusXM to Launch Star-Hosted Series Called 'The Source.' The four-week show is a co-operative effort between SiriusXM and IMG and it's described as "a unique new radio program curated and hosted by stars from every genre" that "will give listeners an opportunity to connect with celebrities in a new way as they share their insights on everything from fashion, art and entertainment to businesses, politics, and pop culture." The program is presented by the AARP-created Life Reimagined, "a platform that helps people navigate transitions and pursue their goals in life." Celebs involved in the project include: Arianna Huffington, Ricky Williams and Donovan McNabb, Ashley Graham, Jerry Springer, Niecy Nash, Carolyn Murphy, Jenna Elfman, Ashley Judd, and Chanel Iman. SiriusXM president and chief content officer Scott Greenstein says, "Bringing new voices to radio has been a hallmark of SiriusXM, and we are excited to work with IMG to bring this eclectic slate of personalities for our listeners. This new show will draw talent from the fields of music, sports and entertainment and beyond, and give them the opportunity to speak at length and in uncensored fashion about their work, passions, views, and life experiences."
Friday, February 12, 2016
Johnson Joins WTEM as PD. More accurately, as of next Monday (2/15), Chris Johnson will again occupy the programming chair at Red Zebra Broadcasting sports outlet WTEM "ESPN 980," Washington, DC – just as he did from 2005 to 2008. Red Zebra Broadcasting chairman Terry Bateman states, "We are excited to have someone with Chris' experience and skill to help us build and grow 'ESPN 980.' We have a great lineup of talent and great content. We look forward to putting it all together to give our listeners the best sports talk radio in the Washington, DC market." Most recently, Johnson covered MLB's Washington Nationals as a reporter for the Mid-Atlantic Sports Network. He previously was a producer of NFL and NCAA games for Westwood One; Johnson's prior connection with WTEM lasted from 1996 – 2008. Down for the third straight ratings period (2.3 – 2.1 – 1.9 -1.6, 6+), "ESPN 980" finishes #20 in the "Holiday" 2015 report, while its format challenger – CBS Radio-owned WJFK-FM "The Fan" – also off for the third successive sweep (2.5 – 2.3 – 2.1 -1.9, 6+) – is #18. The market leader is iHeartMedia adult contemporary WASH (5.9 – 6.1 – 7.0 – 12.0, 6+).
Trevor Carey Promoted to Afternoons at 'PowerTalk 96.7' in Fresno. Radio pro Trevor Carey had been hosting the afternoon drive show on iHeartMedia's sister "PowerTalk" brand in the Stockton-Modesto market – "PowerTalk 1360" on KFIV and KWSX – in addition to hosting the 6:00 pm hour on "PowerTalk 96.7" (KALZ-FM and KRZR-AM in Fresno-Visalia). Now, with Christopher Gabriel's recent exit from the PM drive slot, Carey takes over the 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm show. He'll also host the 6:00 pm hour on the Stockton-Modesto duo.
New Hampshire Primary/Presidential Race Tops Talkers TenTM for Week of February 8-12. Tuesday's New Hampshire primary and the activities of the candidates for president were the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio during the week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 was the Hillary Clinton email case investigation. Coming in at #3 was the recent financial markets activity and related concerns about a recession followed by the effects of the Syrian civil war at #4. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week. It is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine and it is published every Friday at Talkers.com. View this week's entire chart here.
Sean Hannity to Speak and Host Breakfast at TALKERS 2016: Bridging the Generations. In what has become an annual talk media industry tradition, Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel superstar Sean Hannity will host "Breakfast with Hannity" and preside over the opening keynote discussion at the forthcoming 19th annual installment of the field's largest, longest-running and most important national convention. In making the announcement, TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, "Sean's contributions to this storied event, as well as to the industry in general, are incalculable. He has spearheaded discussions about crucial issues attendant to the ratings, consolidation, lowering the demos and free speech, just to scratch the surface. He has provided inspiration and encouragement to new generations of broadcasters coming into the field. When Sean walks in the door at this event, all politics are left outside and he becomes a true statesman of the business offering insight, experience and intelligence about the many issues and challenges we face in common. We are delighted that he will again play such an important role in this conference – especially considering its forward-motion theme of bridging the generations." Over 60 outstanding speakers will participate in TALKERS 2016, set for Friday, May 20 at Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York.
Beasley Broadcast Group 2015 Q4 Net Revenue Up 6.2%. That figure is based on Beasley's reporting of combined operations – both continuing and discontinued operations – and that's relative to the 2014 Q4 asset swap with CBS RADIO that saw Beasley exchange five radio stations in the Philadelphia and Miami-Fort Lauderdale markets for 14 CBS stations in the Tampa-St. Petersburg, Charlotte and Philadelphia markets. Net revenue of combined operations for the whole of 2015 was $105.9 million, an increase of 4.4% over 2014. Beasley CEO and chairman George Beasley states, "Throughout 2015 we implemented a broad range of operating, programming, sales and local strategies intended to extract operating and financial synergies from the stations acquired in the 2014 Asset Exchange. I am pleased to report that we achieved our goal of our clusters outperforming the markets that report to Miller Kaplan for the first time in December 2015 and expect this trend to continue in 2016. Success with our integration and profitability initiatives is also reflected in fourth quarter 2015 station operating income of $9 million and an SOI margin of 31.7%, as well as net income of $3.3 million or $0.14 per diluted share."
CBS RADIO Revenue Dips 5%. Radio is not the primary focus of CBS Corp. but new CBS chairman, president and CEO Les Moonves has always said he likes the radio business – especially its cash flow. Radio is lumped in with CBS Television Stations to make up the Local Broadcasting category, but the company breaks the two apart in these reports and radio's revenue was down 5% on "continued softness in the radio advertising marketplace and lower political advertising." The television sector was down 11% compared to the same Q4 period in 2014 – a period that benefitted from mid-term election political spending.
Odds & Sods. WOR, New York's "Len Berman and Todd Schnitt in the Morning" spoke on the radio with GOP presidential candidate and fellow New Yorker Donald Trump yesterday morning (2/11). Responding to criticism that he doesn't have the temperament to be president, Trump told the WOR audience, "as we get closer, you will be shocked at how presidential I will be."…..Talk host Bill Carroll had been doing an afternoon talk show for Corus-owned news/talk CFMJ, Toronto from Los Angeles while he was still working at iHeartMedia's KFI (a gig he exited in early January). Now, he's also leaving the CFMJ show with rumors he's soon to land at a new station in Canada…..A special edition of the Joan Hamburg show will air on Cumulus Media's news/talk WABC, New York this weekend as the Big Apple radio host covers New York's annual Fashion Week. For the second year, Hamburg speaks with New York's fashion elite in "The Business of Fashion Week" airing on Saturday (2/13) from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm ( a special replay will air Sunday night at 9:00 pm). Hamburg speaks with New York Fashion Week founder Fern Mallis, "The Real Housewives of New York City" star Countess Luann de Lesseps, New York style icon Nick Wooster, Harpers Bazaar editor Avril Graham, and Ben Stiller, director and star of the Zoolander films…..AccuWeather appoints Sarah Katt vice president of product development and operations for the AccuWeather Network. She'll report to John Dokes, general manager of the AccuWeather Network and chief marketing officer of AccuWeather.
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Time Magazine Recognizes Dave Ramsey Podcast. Dubbing it one of the top 10 podcasts on iTunes in 2015, Time magazine gives the Dave Ramsey podcast recognition for its popularity. The Ramsey podcast averages more than 2 million downloads per week. Numerous publications, including iTunes Charts, Digital Trends and Stitcher, list the Dave Ramsey show among the most frequently downloaded and streamed podcasts. Ramsey Media vice president Brian Mayfield comments on the news. "We are excited to see the development of a completely new audience in the digital space. Our roots are embedded in radio where we began, and our audience continues to grow. This recent success on the digital side allows us to introduce our show to the next generation of listeners. Our goal is simple: we want to be there for our listener when, where, and how they want to listen. Digital distribution allows those constantly on the go the ability to listen to their favorite programs on their time schedule. We offer a variety of solutions including podcast, a dedicated channel on iHeartRadio, online audio streaming, and an online video channel." Mayfield says that these efforts combined with the existing radio audience reaches a total audience of 11 million listeners every week.
Mike Francesa to Leave WFAN, New York When Contract Expires. New York sports talk radio icon Mike Francesa tells Fox 1's Katie Nolan that he will exit CBS RADIO's sports talk WFAN, New York when his contract ends in December of 2017. On Nolan's "Garbage Time" podcast, Francesa also tells Nolan that he has spoken with CBS brass about exiting early but the two sides haven't found terms for an exit that are mutually agreeable. He also says it won't be the end of his sports talk career, just the end to his time with WFAN. Fox Sports reports the news from the taping of Nolan's video podcast that will be published tomorrow (1/21).
Cumulus Promotes McCann to Market Manager and Cohen to VP of Sales in Washington. Two are promoted in the executive ranks at Cumulus Media's Washington station group. Jake McCann moves up to vice president/market manager from his VP of sales post and Beth Cohen is upped from director of sales to VP of sales for the cluster. Cumulus SVP Gary Pizzati states, "Jake McCann and Beth Cohen are the leadership team needed to achieve our goals in D.C. In the past year, they've accomplished that and more. Both promotions are well deserved. We look forward to their continued contributions as they advance the growth trajectory of Cumulus DC." Cumulus owns hot AC WRQX "Mix 107.3" and news/talk WMAL-AM/FM in the market.
Presidential Candidates Radio Ads Tracked by Media Monitors; Hillary Clinton Top Spender. Two of the nation's earliest primary elections – the Iowa caucuses and the New Hampshire primary – are just weeks away and Media Monitors reports it is tracking the radio ads for candidates heard in markets within or near those states during the first 15 days of January. Media Monitors reports the following: Hillary Clinton numbers from Des Moines and the Quad Cities show a total of 482 spots run with none run in the adjacent Omaha market. Radio spots for Ted Cruz, whose numbers from Des Moines, the Quad Cities and Omaha totaled 218 that were part of the Cruz For President buy, however, his Super PAC – Keep The Promise ran a total of 26 spots in the three Iowa markets. Donald Trump radio spots that ran in Des Moines, the Quad Cities and Omaha totaled 187 ads. Bernie Sanders did not buy Omaha, but ran spots in Des Moines and the Quad Cities totaling 123 spots. Marco Rubio's Super PAC – Conservative Solutions – also ran in Des Moines, Omaha and the Quad Cities to the tune of 74 units counted. And finally, Mike Huckabee's Super PAC – Pursuing America's Greatness – aired 50 times in Des Moines, the Quad Cities and Omaha. Targeting New Hampshire voters, Hillary Clinton ran 1,110 spots in both Boston and Portsmouth-Dover. Bernie Sanders was next with 899 spots in the two markets. Marco Rubio's Super PAC aired 358 ads. Next was Ted Cruz with 109 spots appearing in Boston and Portsmouth-Dover. Donald Trump played 76 times in the Portsmouth-Dover and 10 times in Boston. Chris Christie aired 24 spots in Portsmouth-Dover, while his Super PAC – American Leads – ran 21 spots in Portsmouth-Dover and Boston. Mike Huckabee did not run any spots in Portsmouth-Dover or Boston.
Presidential Race, Hillary Clinton Emails Investigation, Oscars Boycott, Flint Water Scandal, 13 Hours Film, Sinking Oil Prices/Tumultuous Financial Markets, and Battle Against Islamic State Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/19). The activities of the candidates for president; the FBI's investigation into Hillary Clinton's use of her private email server for sensitive State Department business; the Spike Lee and Jada Pinkett Smith-led boycott of the Academy Awards for the lack of black nominees; the lead water contamination scandal in Flint, Michigan; controversy surrounding the Benghazi film, 13 Hours; the continuing drop in oil prices and the activity in the world's financial markets; and the battle against Islamic State were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Dan Zampillo Exiting WTEM, Washington. There are more changes coming to the Dan Snyder-owned sports talker WTEM, Washington "ESPN 980." Program director Dan Zampillo – on the job since April of 2015 – is leaving the company, according to numerous reports, including one from the Washington Post's Dan Steinberg. Citing an internal memo, the Post reports Zampillo will stay on as a search for his replacement commences. Recently, station manager Rick Carmean exited and the company has eliminated that position. Zampillo came aboard from SiriusXM's sports programming division after Chuck Sapienza resigned the PD post during the bizarre "Man Cave" episode. To refresh your memory, "The Man Cave" show – co-hosted by Chris Paul and Jason Reid – got off to an inauspicious start in March. The launch of the show was delayed by two weeks during which there were reports Dan Snyder didn't like the idea because Reid was critical of the Redskins while writing for the Post. Sapienza quit during this time. The show was eventually cancelled in October. Read Steinberg's Post piece here.
Round One of Holiday PPM Data Released. The first of four rounds of Holiday 2015 PPM data from Nielsen Audio has been released for 12 markets including: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey). The survey period was December 3 – December 30. TALKERS magazine's sister publication RadioInfo has all of the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. In addition, managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his "Twelve Takeaways" from this batch of ratings on the main page at RadioInfo.com here.
Michael Harrison and 'America's Digital Goddess' Discuss the Culture of Technology. Nationally syndicated radio star and newspaper columnist Kim Komando of WestStar TalkRadio Network joins TALKERS magazine publisher Michael Harrison as a special guest on this week's installment of PodcastOne's international hit, "Up Close and Far Out with Michael Harrison" (1/19). The two conduct an in-depth discussion about the state of the digital era as we are experiencing its unfolding in the early decades of the 21st century from both technological and cultural perspectives. Highlights include a prognostication of where the technology is headed going forward. Will humans increasingly merge (physically, mentally, spiritually) with silicon technology as chips are increasingly embedded not only in our clothing and all around us in the "Internet of Things" – but in our bodies as well? How can parents, who are natives of the 20th century, exercise control and guidance over their digitally precocious children, who are natives of the 21st century? What is the present state and future of privacy? Komando, whom Harrison describes as a "remarkable woman," discusses her early days as a teenage prodigy in New Jersey who graduated high school at 15, headed west on her own, and went on to build a multi-million dollar empire blazing new trails in radio and contributing greatly to the advancement of this amazing new era. To listen to the entire conversation, click here or click on the "Up Close and Far Out" player box located in the right-hand column of every page on Talkers.com.
Talk Host Kevin Jackson Named Fox News Contributor. Independently syndicated talk personality Kevin Jackson joins the Fox News organization as a contributor. The news was announced to Fox News Channel viewers on last night's edition of "The Kelly File" with host Megyn Kelly. Jackson has made numerous appearances on FNC shows over the years, including "Hannity" and "Fox & Friends." Jackson comments, "I am grateful and proud that Roger (Ailes) appreciates my talent enough to have added me to the Fox News family. What a great honor to have Fox News as part of my distribution platform. My message has been leaking through for some time and this should help me to extend that message a lot further."
Odds & Sods. As reported by Blaine Thompson's Indiana Radio Watch, Emmis Communications' Indianapolis news/talker WIBC-FM names Chris Davis news director. Davis, who most recently was news director for the News Mississippi Network, takes over for Mike Wilson who left the radio biz…..Westwood One is providing radio play-by-play for this weekend's NFL conference championship games on Sunday. WW1's doubleheader coverage begins at 2:00 pm ET.
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Armstrong & Getty Top Goal for Fisher House Fundraiser. The weeklong Fisher House Foundation fundraiser held by KSTE, Sacramento-based morning drive talk hosts Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty raised more than $544,000, pushing the show's five-year total past the $2.3 million mark. The 5th annual Armstrong & Getty fundraiser was held last week with the stated goal of $500,000. Fisher House Foundation CEO Ken Fisher says that the money raised is important. "But just as important is the awareness they have brought to listeners about the needs of our veterans, military and their families – a reminder that as Americans we owe a huge debt to these men and women. The listeners of A&G have certainly taken that to heart. Joe and Jack were the catalyst for this important donation, but it was their listeners who made it happen. To all of you, on behalf of the thousands of lives you will touch, I say thank you." Armstrong & Getty are also heard in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Honolulu, and San Diego.
Tom Gresham Joins Washington Times as Opinion Columnist. The column will be written on a bi-monthly basis by firearms experts, author and talk show host Tom Gresham for the conservative Washington Times newspaper. Gresham has a lot of experience writing about guns. At age 18 he began working as a columnist and became editor of Southern Outdoors Magazine. He's served as editor for several other outdoor magazines, authored multiple books, including Weatherby: The Man, The Gun, The Legend, created and, of course, hosts the weekly radio program Guntalk, heard on more than 200 affiliate stations. Gresham states, "I'm delighted that the Washington Times is carrying an opinion column that refutes the constant support for more gun control being pushed by much of the media. Recent polls show that a large majority of Americans disapprove of additional gun laws. These readers are underserved in most papers."
'ESPN 980' in Washington Reports 3 Million-plus Podcast Downloads; Adds New Content. Washington, DC sports talk station WTEM "ESPN 980" reports it notched more than 3 million downloads of its podcasts during the month of October. The Red Zebra Broadcasting station's Tony Kornheiser show led the pack with more than 2 million downloads for the month. In addition to podcasts of all of its shows being available, the station is adding four new original podcasts and two aggregated podcasts. Director of programming Dan Zampillo states, "Creating original digital content and developing relationships with those doing it successfully is an important part of our mission to bring the best DC sports content to listeners on all platforms."
Odds & Sods. Nationally syndicated ESPN Radio morning show Mike & Mike broadcasts live from Ohio State in Columbus this Friday (11/20) prior to the Michigan State vs Ohio State game. It's the fifth of six stops on the "Fall Football Tour." It's tied in to the "Mike & Mike at the College Football Playoff" contest that will allow one grand prize winner to accompany Mike Golic and Mike Greenberg to the College Football Playoff National Championship on January 11…..Sun Broadcast Group announces it is celebrating its 7th anniversary and promises big news at its agency and programming upfront event titled, "2016 – The Preview," scheduled for this Friday in New York City…..Beasley Media Group announces Bob Turner joins the company's Southwest Florida radio group to serve as general sales manager. He was most recently president of Azteca America, an international television network and spot sales company. Turner says, "Working with Beasley Media Group is a terrific opportunity. In Southwest Florida, businesses are absolutely thriving. The business surge in this market offers an abundance of untapped potential to my entire sales team. Our timing is ideal for a new level of sales success!"
WPGG, Atlantic City Morning Host Harry Hurley Makes PolitickerNJ.com's 2015 Power List. Atlantic City talk radio personality Harry Hurley tells TALKERS magazine it's an honor and a privilege to make PolitickerNJ.com's 2015 Power List of the top 100 most politically powerful people in the state of New Jersey. It's the 9th time the WPGG, Atlantic City morning host has made the list (he landed at #83 this year, up six places from #89 a year ago) and Hurley says, "Considering we're the most densely populated state in America, with 9 million people, it's a high honor, privilege and a very difficult list to make. In New Jersey, this Power List is the 'gold standard.' It's the list you want to make in The Garden State."
WGOW, Chattanooga's Brian Joyce Assists Marine Corps' Toys for Tots. WGOW, Chattanooga midday talk show host Brian Joyce (left) poses for a photo at a recent remote broadcast from local mortgage lender Peoples Home Equity at which he was helping collect toys for the Marine Corps' Toys for Tots program. Joyce tells TALKERS the event resulted in a phenomenal turnout, at which they collected plenty of toys and cash donations for the program. Pictured here with Joyce are Marine Sgt. Donovan Walters (right) and, at center, Philip, whom Joyce describes as his "littlest/biggest fan" who comes to all of his remote broadcasts.
Paris Terrorist Attacks, Battle Against ISIS, 2016 Presidential Race/Democratic Debate, Syrian Refugees/U.S. Immigration Policy, Russian Airliner Bombing, and Charlie Sheen AIDS Report Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (11/16). The aftermath of Friday's deadly terrorist attacks in Paris; military strikes on ISIS strongholds in Syria; the activities of the candidates for president in 2016 tied with discussion about the Democratic candidates' debate on Saturday; the state of Syrian refugees in the U.S. and debate over immigration policy in America; Moscow's conclusion that the Russian airliner downed in the Sinai Desert was the result of a bomb; and reports that actor Charlie Sheen is HIV positive were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
WW1 Partners with CNBC for Tonight's Republican Primary Debate. The third Republican primary debate takes place this evening (10/28) live from the Coors Events Center at the University of Colorado Boulder and carries a money theme: "Your Money, Your Vote." The debate is being produced for television by CNBC and the radio partner is Westwood One which reports that more than 160 affiliate stations are signed up to air the debate. WW1 presents some data from its simulcast of the October 13th Democratic candidates' debate, noting "one out of 10 adults (10.8%), 18+, report listening to the Westwood One News' Democratic debate coverage, representing over 26 million people ages 18+," and "one out of 10 Millennials, 18-34 (9.8%) report that they were reached; one of 10 Generation Xer's, 35-54 (11.5%) report that they were reached." WW1 EVP of news & talk programming Bart Tessler comments, "We are thrilled to partner with CNBC and to provide voters access to this debate so they can hear the candidates' positions on their money and other issues. We are also filling a void for those Americans who don't subscribe to a pay TV service or who live in broadcast-only households. Our radio coverage offers tremendous reach."
Jeff Sottolano Named VP of Programming for CBS RADIO. This is a promotion from his current director, programming position he assumed in January of this year. Prior to that promotion, Jeff Sottolano had been program director of sports talk WIP-FM, Philadelphia. He was also program director at rock WYSP, Philadelphia from 2008 through 2011 when he moved to WIP. About his new role as VP of programming, CBS RADIO EVP of programming Chris Oliviero comments, "Jeff has made significant contributions to our content platform, not just over the air, but also to our strong digital and live event assets. With today's announcement, he will now be better positioned to take a leadership role as we continue to craft our growth strategy, one which is squarely founded on CBS RADIO's best in class brands."
WGN, Chicago's Justin Kaufmann Explains Absence from Evening Show. The host of WGN, Chicago's 7:00 pm to 11:00 pm program "The Download" pens an explanation/apology for his now-three-week absence from the show. Chicago media writer Robert Feder tips us to Justin Kaufmann's letter that reads, in part, "I made a mistake. As a husband, I let my wife and my family down. And I will also tell you that this issue is between me and my wife. Also please know that my lapse in judgement was not the reason I have been off the air. The fact that an individual tried to take advantage of my private situation, and make it public, was. That's the consequence of a bad decision in the first place. And for that I apologize." Part-time staffers have been filling in hosting the show since October 6. It's not clear when Kaufmann will return to the air. Read Feder's report here.
WTEM, Washington Cancels 'The Man Cave.' The Red Zebra-operated Washington, DC sports talker WTEM "ESPN 908" will return ESPN's Mike & Mike in the Morning to the AM drive and has cut ties with Chris Paul and Jason Reid, co-hosts of the seven-month-old "The Man Cave" show. The program had an inauspicious debut. Back in late February it was announced the duo would be joining the station's programming schedule but then the show's launch was killed and program director Chuck Sapienza exited the station. Jason Reid is a former Washington Post columnist who's been critical of the Washington Redskins operation and Dan Snyder owns both the team and WTEM. There was chatter Snyder was not happy with Sapienza's decision. Then in late March the show debuted, two weeks after it had first been planned. Now, seven months later, the program is cancelled with director of programming Dan Zampillo saying, "Unfortunately we were not able to obtain the consistent level of ratings success needed in morning drive over the last 7 months, and therefore felt the need to make this change."
Round Two of October PPM Ratings Released – Minus Tampa, Again. The second of four rounds of October 2015 PPM data from Nielsen Audio is released for 11 markets including: Washington, Boston, Detroit, Miami, Seattle, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. As was the case in September, Tampa numbers are being delayed. The September delay (ratings came a week later minus WBRN-FM) was due to a ratings tampering charge against WBRN-FM-based Bubba the Love Sponge. This time Nielsen only tells clients the reason is for "completion of additional quality assurance steps." You can find all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. Additionally, TALKERS and RadioInfo managing editor Mike Kinosian provides his Twelve Takeaways from this round of data at our sister publication's site here. The October 2015 PPM survey covered September 10 through October 7.
WVNJ 1160 'The Voice' Gets Serious About Competing with Tuned-Up News/Talk Format in Big Apple. WVNJ 1160 AM – licensed to Oakland, NJ but covering a wide swath of the New York Metropolitan Area — has begun making moves that indicate it is getting serious about becoming more competitive in the nation's number one market. The family-owned-and-operated, (Universal Broadcasting of NY) strategically located (in Teaneck), independent outlet pumps out a formidable 20k signal that can be heard throughout much of the Tri-State area including heavily populated portions of New Jersey, New York City, Hudson Valley, Western Connecticut, and Long Island. Recent additions to the station's daily lineup, catching the eyes and ears of industry observers, include live clearances of syndicated major league stars Premiere Networks' Glenn Beck (11:00 am – 1:00 pm) and GCN's Dr. Joy Browne (1:00 pm – 3:00 pm). Both have strong followings in the New York area. Other significant players now on-air include Doug Stephan, Alex Jones, Ian Freeman and Mark Edge of "Free Talk Live," and Dr. Daliah Wachs, marking a partial departure from the station's former reliance on brokered programming to constitute most of its schedule. Many of these changes are being initiated by the hiring of radio veteran and consultant Luis Felix as the station's director of operations under a management/consultant agreement in which Felix is responsible for the day-to-day operations. Felix tells TALKERS, "There is still tremendous value in AM radio stations with large market reach." He explains, "My plan is to appeal more to local listeners while offering the best national talent. The priority will be to target our local communities and offer opportunities for brokered broadcasts during certain times of the day. It's a balancing act that can work. Just imagine brokered hosts on the same station with the industry's leading talkers. Take Jerry Hickey from Invite Health Radio — he's a pharmacist and nutritionist, but he loves radio. His radio show is produced utilizing professional broadcast ethics. This practice helps us maintain consistency in our quest to offer quality broadcast standards." Felix adds, "I will also develop and expand our digital offerings so that our advertisers can achieve a better ROI. Combining top radio personalities with brokered programming, I believe, is talk radio's winning combination. By finding efficiencies in our broadcast operations and enhancing our offerings, I may be able to turn things around. I've spent 34 years in this industry and have learned quite a few things. It's in my blood." Known on-air as Albert Lewis, the gregarious Felix's career started back in 1981 as an intern at urban powerhouse WBLS, New York working for the legendary Frankie Crocker and includes subsequent positions at WWRL, WNYG and WGBB – all in the New York/Long Island Metropolitan area. He was also involved in designing the online local news site, DNAinfo.com, for Chicago Cubs owner Joe Ricketts.
Herskovitz: Somebody's Listening. Radio sales pro Al Herskovitz writes in a column for TALKERS that he believes a lot of talk radio's "wounds" are self-inflicted. Not that new technology isn't disrupting radio (not to mention the TV, newspaper, etc. industries), but proving that digital is an effective advertising vehicle is hardly a slam dunk. He provides an example from his work of a client so happy with the return on investment in a national talk radio campaign that he's currently working on a renewal package for 2016 for that client. Read Herskovitz's piece here.
Cool Job Opportunities – Howie Carr Radio Network Expanding Personnel Roster. TALKERS has learned that the Boston-based Howie Carr Radio Network – producer and distributor of the mega-successful, regionally syndicated Howie Carr Show — is adding to its staff with openings in the following positions: event planners and facilitators, full-time and part-time sales positions, part-time associate producers, and part-time marketing promotions. Interested parties should email their resumes to Kathy Carr at: email@example.com.
Talent Search! WGR SPORTS RADIO 550 is looking for the next great personality to add to Western New York's sports leader. Are you talented, creative, driven and focused? Can you create compelling sports content and do you have a passion for connecting with sports fans? The ideal candidate will have 3 to 5 years sports talk experience, a deep knowledge of sports teams and the business of sports, plus a strong list of sports contacts. Must have excellent written and social media skills, work well in a team setting, and be reliable and disciplined. Are you that next great talent? Tell us your story and submit your materials including resume, aircheck and written samples to program director Allan Davis at: email@example.com.
2016 Presidential Candidates/GOP Debate, U.S.-China Military Tensions, South Carolina School Cop Case, Russia-Syria Relationship, Congressional Budget Deal, European Migrant Problems, and World Series Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (10/27). The activities of the candidates for president in 2016 and tonight's GOP primary debate; the military tensions between the U.S. and China over a U.S. Navy patrol near disputed islands in the South China Sea; the case of a school cop's use of force on a disobedient high school student in South Carolina; Russia's military involvement in the Syrian civil conflict; the proposed two-year budget deal agreed to in Congress; the flood of immigrants into Europe and the strain being put on resources in the affected countries; and the World Series between the New York Mets and the Kansas City Royals were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Friday, July 24, 2015
CBS RADIO Announces Market Manager Changes. Taking over for Marc Rayfield at the CBS RADIO Philadelphia cluster as SVP/market manager is current director of sales David Yadgaroff. Rayfield was recently named market manager for the New York market. Elsewhere in the company, current Boston SVP/market manager Mark Hannon adds the same duties for Hartford, replacing the retiring Suzanne McDonald. CBS combines the SVP/market manager post for both Miami and Orlando and appoints Steve Carver, who replaces Joe Bell in Miami and Dave Robbins in Orlando. They both exit the company. Director of sales Tony Perlongo is promoted to SVP/ market manager in Las Vegas, taking over for the exiting Jerry McKenna; and Mike Valenzuela rises from VP/director of sales in the Riverside cluster to SVP/market manager, replacing Harvey Wells who's returning to the Chicago area to be closer to family.
Orban Addresses Nielsen-Voltair Issue. Audio processor competitor Orban has been very quiet during the industry-wide discussion about 25-Seven's Voltair processor but breaks that silence with a press statement released on Thursday (7/23). The statement says, in part, "Some have argued that Voltair is 'just another form of audio processing.' However, we believe that there is an essential and fundamental difference between audio processing (like that done by our Optimods) that increases the opportunity of the Nielsen encoder to insert audibly undetectable watermark tones and processing that directly manipulates the level of the watermark, potentially breaking Nielsen psychoacoustic masking model and allowing the tones to become audible. Based on their testing, Nielsen concluded that Voltair can degrade perceptual quality. In an environment where traditional radio is suffering ever-increasing competition from new media, we believe that it is unwise for radio to degrade its audio in an internecine battle whose ultimate winner could be non-broadcast providers. Because Nielsen is a large, global business that depends on producing credible audience measurements, we expect that it will soon solve any problem (if it actually exists) by making improvements to its encoder. Accordingly, we have decided not to add processing to Optimods that directly manipulates the Nielsen watermark signal because we expect that any such effort would degrade audio quality and would soon be rendered obsolete by Nielsen's encoder improvements. Moreover, we trust the Media Rating Council to thoroughly evaluate any such improvements, as they have already done for the Nielsen PPM system in its current form. While it is true Orban's Optimod processors are compatible with Voltair, we urge caution."
Doug Steckler Ends Friday Appearances with Tim Conway Jr. on KFI, Los Angeles. For the last four years, Doug Steckler has been co-hosting the Friday evening edition of Tim Conway Jr.'s show on iHeartMedia's KFI, Los Angeles. But that is ending and Steckler says in a statement, "I am leaving the Tim Conway Jr. show on KFI where I enjoyed sharing Friday evenings with the funniest, nicest guy in radio. We had more fun than should be legal. All good things must come to their finish and it's always better (if still difficult) to get out while you can still hear the laughter. I want to wish everyone connected with the Tim Conway Jr. show the very best in every way. I would like to especially express my profound gratitude to Sheron Bellio, our executive producer, whose creativity, original thinking, laser wit, and supernatural administrative abilities made every Friday a wonderfully conspiratorial caper." Conway and Steckler co-hosted a talk show on the old hot talk-formatted KLSX-FM, Los Angeles (now CHR KAMP) from 1996 through 2005. Doug Steckler is represented by Jason Insalaco's Kelton Agency.
WTEM, Washington Adds Craig Hoffman for Redskins Beat Reporter Gig. This will be a year-round gig at Red Zebra Broadcasting's Washington Redskins flagship WTEM "ESPN 980" for Craig Hoffman as he is named the new Redskins beat reporter. Hoffman was most recently with ESPN O&O KESN, Dallas "103.3 FM ESPN" as a host and update anchor. Red Zebra says he has experience "covering both professional and college teams along with reporting from large national events like the NCAA Final Four. Craig will cover the Redskins year-round and will contribute content to the station's local shows. He will also be part of the game-day broadcasts on the Redskins Radio Network while producing content for ESPN 980's website and social media outlets."
Paul Vandenburgh Takes Top Talk Show Honors in Metroland 'Best Of.' WGDJ, Albany owner, general manager and morning talk host Paul Vandenburgh's daily show was named the Best Talk Radio Program in the market by Albany alternative weekly Metroland. Here's how the entry reads: "This is the show for local issues. Special mention must be made of the must-listen interviews he conducted with local reporters on scene in Dannemora during the prison break. Standard disclaimer: We're a bunch of liberals and disagree with 75 percent of his opinions, but so what? Who didn't enjoy it when he went after Troy's City Hall clown show during the frozen pipes scandal?"
Odds & Sods. Los Angeles-based talk legend Tom Leykis is streaming his program live from the Maximum Yield Indoor Gardening Expo at the Los Angeles Convention Center tomorrow (7/25) from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm PT from the Aqua Camel booth. What is Aqua Camel? It's a self-watering plant pot system that uses 65% less water. The company is co-founded by Tim Sabean, former Sirius Satellite Radio and CBS RADIO programmer…..Hearst-owned WBAL, Baltimore "NewsRadio 1090" agrees to a new multi-year partnership with the Naval Academy Athletic Association to continue serving as radio flagship for Navy football. This will be the 11th consecutive year WBAL has broadcast Navy football.
Got Old Radio Shows? Opportunity to Monetize Content in Your Basement. One of the largest independent audiobook companies in the world, Blackstone Audio, is looking to expand its product offerings beyond audiobooks into spoken-word, including comedy, opinion pieces, soundtracks (non-musical), old-time radio and TV shows, sports broadcast highlights, and any other forms of spoken-word or subject matter that would be interesting to the audio-listening public. Blackstone would offer the content owners of recorded audio programs that they choose to license or distribute an arrangement under which the content owners would receive the majority of the net revenue from the sale of their content to the public by Blackstone. If you have recorded spoken-word content and would be interested in having Blackstone Audio consider it for licensing or distribution contact Larry Harris at firstname.lastname@example.com.
2016 Presidential Candidates and Trump Criticisms Tie for Top Spot on Talkers TenTM. The activities of the candidates for president in 2016 and the criticism of Donald Trump's recent statements tied for the top spot on the Talkers TenTM for the week of July 20-24. At #2 this week was the Iran nuclear deal. Coming in at #3 was talk about the U.S, immigration policy and the sanctuary city concept followed by threats from ISIS 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. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. View this week's entire chart here.
Thursday, July 23, 2015
Nielsen Audio-Voltair Debate Rages On. The industry is still aflutter with chatter – and quite a few blogs – over Tuesday's Nielsen Audio webinar in which the ratings giant told clients its tests of Telos Alliance's Voltair audio processor showed no conclusive evidence that the unit positively impacted the PPM unit's ability to pick up the embedded codes in any way that could affect ratings. Although Nielsen did admit that in some circumstances, Voltair did give the watermark a boost that would allow the PPM to pick up more codes. Broadcasting consultant Randy Kabrich responded to that conclusion in a recent blog post in which he explained that – due to the U.S. system of Quarter Hour measurement – picking up some extra codes via Voltair which might have gone undetected without it, still would not increase ratings because the Media Rating Council testing done on PPM concluded the measurement system "hears" enough of the codes to get an accurate record of listening. The Voltair unit has only been in the field for less than a year and it appears there isn't enough data, available publicly anyway, to produce sound conclusions about whether – or exactly how – the unit affects the audio and the PPM's reception of it across all radio formats. Even Telos Alliance doesn't seem to have all the answers about its product as Kabrich points out in today's blog post that focuses on contrary opinions about whether certain music "encodes well" for PPM. Read it here.
Cumulus-Commissioned Study Indicates Radio Advertising Helped Drive Awareness of Amazon Prime Day. The Ipsos study commissioned by Cumulus Media/Westwood One analyzing how advertising drove awareness of the July 15 Amazon Prime Day was done to "understand how effective advertising and radio is to drive online purchases." The study concluded that: 81% of Americans aware of Amazon Prime said they were exposed to some form of advertising for the event; one out of five Americans reported making a purchase during Amazon Prime Day because of advertising; three out of five Amazon Prime subscribers (18-49) exposed to advertising said they purchased something during Amazon Prime Day; and radio advertising was the most effective at converting awareness into Prime Day purchases when compared to TV and online. Of those exposed to radio ads, 52% made a purchase versus TV (39%) and online (48%). Cumulus and Westwood One chief marketing officer Pierre Bouvard comments, "Advertising put Amazon Prime Day on the map, and radio was the most effective at converting awareness into purchases. The greatest Amazon Prime Day purchases occurred among Millennials, households with children, and those with a full-time job — precisely the profile of the American radio listener."
Dave Ramsey Show to Air on WRKO, Boston. The Dave Ramsey program will air in the evening daypart, immediately following the Howie Carr afternoon drive show on Entercom's news/talk WRKO, Boston, effective July 27. Entercom Boston market manager Phil Zachary says, "After a long day reporting and talking about hard news, Dave's show invites our listeners into the homes of America's working class to hear their stories, struggles and triumphs. It's radio 'comfort food' ideally suited to New England values." This addition comes shortly after other changes to the station's program lineup that include the move of former morning host Jeffrey Kuhner to the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm slot and the addition of Kim Carrigan as host of the "Boston.com Morning Show."
WTEM, Washington Inks Clinton Portis for Redskins Coverage. Washington Redskins great Clinton Portis is joining Red Zebra Broadcasting to serve as an analyst for the upcoming football season. Portis played seven seasons for the Redskins. WTEM "ESPN 980" says that in addition to joining afternoon show personalities Chris Cooley, Steve Czaban, and Al Galdi every Monday during the football season, Portis will also co-host a monthly one-hour show, Fridays during the season, where he'll provide a detailed look at the Redskins performance. Portis comments, "I am so excited to finally be on the air covering the team I love. Chris Cooley was a great teammate and close friend and we promise to make it as memorable as we did during our playing career."
Odds & Sods. After a Tweet from ESPN Radio's Ryen Russillo, we now know that the 10-year ESPN personality will remain with the sports media giant. Russillo reports "I'm staying at ESPN" after his status with the company was being questioned. His former radio partner Scott Van Pelt recently leaving the radio gig for new roles in ESPN's cable programming and other highly publicized cuts at the company had industry watchers wondering if Russillo would remain…..At Calvary-owned Pittsburgh news outlet KQV, Bruce Sakalik resigns from the station after 15 years — the last 10 as morning news anchor. He leaves radio for a position with Comcast.
Boomer & Carton Host Daniel Bryan. WFAN, New York morning hosts Boomer Esiason (left) and Craig Carton (right) pose for s photo with WWE superstar Daniel Bryan on the show's set today (7/23). Bryan appeared on the program to plug his new book, Yes! My Improbable Journey to the Main Event of WrestleMania (St. Martin's Press 2015). During the interview Bryan spoke about his career, his marriage to Bella Twin, Brie Bella, and his story of the couple's house being robbed.
2016 Presidential Candidates, Iran Nuclear Deal, Planned Parenthood Videos, Immigration Policy-Sanctuary Cities, Chattanooga Slayings Aftermath, ISIS Threat, and Sandra Bland Death Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/22). The activities of the candidates for president in 2016, the state of the deal with Iran over its nuclear program; fallout over the two recent videos showing Planned Parenthood doctors haggling over the price for human tissue from abortions; the conversation about the immigration policy in the U.S. and the cases of sanctuary cities; the memorials to the Marines slain in the Chattanooga attacks and questions about the radicalization of shooter Mohammed Abdulazeez; the U.S. intelligence community's assessment of the threat posed by ISIS; and scrutiny of the arrest and death of Sandra Bland were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Monday, June 15, 2015
Packed Talkers New York 2015 Conference a Hit with Attendees. Talk media industry practitioners jam-packed the India House in Manhattan's Financial District on Friday, June 12 for a full day of presentations, panels and speeches as TALKERS magazine celebrated its 25th anniversary serving the talk radio industry at its 18th annual New York-located national conference. The day began with a continental breakfast and reception titled, "Breakfast with Hannity," sponsored by the Premiere Networks-syndicated talk radio superstar. WFAN, New York sports talk legend Mike Francesa kicked off the presentations with a powerful and informative welcoming speech. Panel discussions included such topics as "The State of Radio Ratings," "The Big Picture," "Generating Talk Radio Revenue," "Programming Talk Radio in 2015," "Variety, The Spice of Life," and "Navigating a Talk Host Career." The program also included a one-on-one "Fireside Chat" between TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison and Cumulus Media EVP, content & programming John Dickey, plus the TALKERS Awards Presentation during which WOLB, Baltimore morning host Larry Young received the "Humanitarian of the Year Award," Howard Stern co-host Robin Quivers received the "Woman of the Year Award," CBS Radio News VP Harvey Nagler was presented the "Lifetime Achievement Award," and ABC Television, director, business continuity Howard B. Price received the "Freedom of Speech Award." Michael Harrison states, "We are deeply gratified, humbled and grateful by the SRO turnout and the tremendous love and support we have consistently received that has allowed TALKERS and all its various projects to make it to the quarter-century milestone. This conference exuded a level of confidence about the future of the talk industry held by its key players that we haven't seen in years!" Video of each of the sessions and presentations will be made available online via Talkers TV, along with detailed story and photographic coverage of the conference, beginning next week. Above right, FOX News' Brian Kilmeade, WFAN's Mike Francesa and Sean Hannity share a joke. Lower left, Premiere Networks' Julie Talbott (left) presents the Woman of the Year Award to Robin Quivers (right).
iHeartMedia to Create New Boston Home for Rush Limbaugh on WKOX. Dropping the Spanish music format "Mia 1430," iHeartMedia will launch "Talk 1430" WKOX on Monday, June 29 with Premiere Networks' Rush Limbaugh as the centerpiece along with company stalwarts Sean Hannity and Glenn Beck surrounding him. WKOX is licensed to Everett, Massachusetts and its primary signal covers the city of Boston and reaches many of its suburbs. iHeartMedia is going with a sports and talk hybrid using FOX Sports Radio content in addition to syndicated talk programming. Here's the lineup: "FOX Sports Daybreak with Andy Furman & Mike North" in AM drive; Glenn Beck from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon; Limbaugh; Sean Hannity from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm; "America Now" from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm; Westwood One's Mark Levin from 9:00 pm to 12:00 midnight; and FOX Sports Radio during overnights. iHeartMedia Boston market president Alan Chartrand says, "We are excited to bring this powerful lineup of talk show hosts to our cluster here in Boston. We are confident that the biggest names in the talk radio format will serve our listeners and advertisers well."
Canada's Numeris Orders Voltair Units Disabled Until Further Notice. Canada's Numeris – formerly called the Bureau of Broadcast Measurement – has ordered all Canadian radio stations to disconnect their Voltair units from their audio chains. The audio processor manufactured by 25-Seven – a division of TelosAlliance – has been a controversial topic within U.S. broadcast circles recently for reportedly enabling stations in Nielsen's PPM markets to "amplify" the encoding that PPM receivers use to "hear" in order to give stations credit for listening. As was discussed at the Talkers New York 2015 conference on Friday (6/12) on the "State of Radio Ratings" panel, Voltair is currently being tested by Nielsen but no such edicts have been issued here. Canada's Numeris states in a letter to station owners that the order to shut off Voltair comes because of the "importance of a level playing field." Numeris admists it doesn't know if the technology is affecting ratings or not but that it expects to have an analysis of Voltair done within 60 days.
Cumulus Media Elevates Hess to Corporate PD of News/Talk. A session moderator at last Friday's (6/12) "TALKERS New York 2015," Bill Hess takes on corporate responsibilities in addition to his role as program director of Cumulus Media Washington, DC news/talker WMAL-AM/FM. According to Cumulus executive vice president of content and programming John Dickey, "Bill is one of the format's best minds. We look forward to sharing him within our company." Senior vice president of content and programming Mike McVay comments, "This promotion enables us to take advantage of Bill's previous experience as a corporate programmer and rewards him for the amazing job that he is doing at WMAL." Hess remarks, "I deeply appreciate – and am incredibly energized by – this opportunity to work with John Dickey, Mike McVay, and our team of talented programmers as we continue to drive the success of the industry's leading platform of news-talk brands, both on-air and digitally." Formerly senior vice president of programming for Air America Radio, Hess was brand manager for Clear Channel/iHeartMedia and was PD of talk stations in Providence (WHJJ); Springfield, Massachusetts (WHYN-AM); and Worcester, Massachusetts (WTAG), as well as operations manager of Washington, DC progressive talker WWRC, sports WTEM, and conservative talk WTNT. The Philadelphia native has programmed FM music stations in Washington, DC (adult contemporary WASH and classic rock WBIG); Providence (hot AC WSNE and classic hits-oldies WWBB); Springfield, Massachusetts (hot AC WHYN-FM); and Worcester, Massachusetts (adult contemporary WSRS).
New Course Set at WRKO, Boston. In a press statement announcing the hiring of Alison Harris as sales manager for Entercom's news/talk WRKO, Boston, VP and market manager Phil Zachary says filling this two-year-vacant post signals the station's readiness to forward with the next step in its evolution. He comments, "Like every talk radio station in America, WRKO has been evolving with the changing media habits and demographic shifts in our society. We did not want to fill this important position until our course was set for the future and we found the perfect candidate. I'm thrilled we're now at that point and that Alison was available to us." Harris is a 22-year media pro who was most recently with Clear Channel Outdoor's Washington, D.C./Baltimore Division as vice president of sales. The Boston news/talk will part with Premiere Networks' Rush Limbaugh next month and says it will announce its new, official lineup a little later this month.
Odds & Sods. Boston journalist and talk show host Michele McPhee told her listeners on Friday afternoon that she expects to beat the charges leveled against her after a late night incident on Thursday that resulted in her being arrested for DUI, resisting arrest and assaulting an officer. McPhee – heard on WMEX, Boston in afternoon drive – says she can't comment specifically on the advice of her attorney. She was pulled over after a police officer reported seeing her car swerve on I-93 in South Boston. The Boston Herald reports she became belligerent with the officer and even sustained a head injury while the officer was arresting her…..Salem Media Group names Randy Bush general manager of its Little Rock station group that includes Christian contemporary KKSP, Christian teaching KDIS and news/talk KHTE "96.5 The Answer."…..Townsquare Media announces Mike "Sandman" Sanders is the new operations manager for its Billings, Montana cluster that includes news/talk KCHH "Newstalk 95.5." He was most recently with Riverbend Communications as music director and afternoon personality at adult contemporary KCLE, Idaho Falls "Classy 97.3."
Nielsen Audio Releases Fourth Round of May 2015 PPM Data. The fourth and final round of May 2015 PPM ratings data from Nielsen Audio has been released for 12 markets including: Austin, Milwaukee, Indianapolis, Providence, Raleigh, Norfolk, Nashville, Greensboro, West Palm Beach, Jacksonville, Memphis, and Hartford. The May 2015 survey period covered April 23 through May 20. You can find the complete ratings from subscribing stations here. Additionally, TALKERS and RadioInfo managing editor Mike Kinosian provides his "Ten Takeaways" from this group on the main page of our sister publication here.
NJBA Conference and Gala Begins This Week. The annual New Jersey Broadcasters Association Conference and Gala opens this week in Atlantic City with his year's theme: "Broadcast Has New Attitude." NJBA president & CEO Paul Rotella states, "We're going to hear from a variety of voices during this conference which will provide you with the latest and most substantial evolution in research, technology and advancement in audience measurement." During the conference, the NJBA will be honoring FOX News' Judge Andrew P. Napolitano as its recipient of the Howard L. Green Humanitarian of the Year. Also, Greater Media's Peter Smyth will induct Dan Finn, Harry Hurley, Dick Swetits, and Kevin Williams into the NJBA Hall of Fame.
'Get Well' Wishes to Gabe Hobbs. Longtime radio pro and Gabe Hobbs Media principal, Gabe Hobbs is recovering from a ruptured disc in his lower back. He writes to the industry that he's been largely unable to communicated while literally "on his back" in the hospital for the better part of the last two weeks. He writes, "As some of you may have heard, I have been hospitalized with a ruptured disk in my lower back for a couple of weeks. My back just seemed to explode on the afternoon of May 26th and I've been largely unable to answer emails, phone calls or texts ever since. I couldn't even sit up or walk for 9 days. I'm finally able to do a little work on the computer and have somewhat cogent phone conversations at this point…My apologies as I know many of you are wondering if I just dropped off the face of the earth. Everyone at TALKERS wishes Gabe a speedy recovery.
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Talk Radio Superstar Mark Levin Interviewed on New Installment of 'Up Close and Far Out.' Nationally syndicated Westwood One talk show host, author and legal scholar Mark Levin joins TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison on this week's installment of "Up Close and Far Out," PodcastOne's international hit podcast for media freaks. The two outspoken media figures discuss the endless nuances of political labeling, the state of the First Amendment, the U.S. Constitution, the balance of power between the Federal Government and the individual states, the American Civil War, and differences between statesmanship during the American Revolution and today. Levin admits that he is a "media freak" having been a fan of talk radio since his early teens when he listened to all-night shows on his transistor radio. Regarding the nature of the times during which some 56 American "politicians" signed a document for freedom risking certain death if the colonists couldn't defeat the world's most awesome military power on the planet, Levin wistfully says, "I actually wish I lived during those days." To hear the entire podcast, please click here or click on the "Up Close and Far Out" player in the right hand column of every page of Talkers.com.
WGMD, Rehoboth Beach Cuts Ties with Todd Schoenberger. It appears that Resort Broadcasting has parted ways with talk host and former hedge fund manager Todd Schoenberger. All references to him have been removed from the station's website. In a follow-up to the story TALKERS reported yesterday (6/8), Schoenberger was to be part of the station's new lineup hosting afternoon drive and three days into his gig it was reported that he was sanctioned by the Securities and Exchange Commission for fraud. Schoenberger admitted to fraudulent conduct in a case in which he convinced four investors to invest $130,000 for a hedge fund he said had $65 million under management, but in reality contained no assets at all. Schoenberger had been a regular guest on FOX News, CNBC, CNN and Bloomberg.
WTEM, Washington Extends Deal with Doc Walker. Washington Redskins great Rick "Doc" Walker will remain part of the "Inside the Locker Room" afternoon show with Brian Mitchell and Scott Jackson after agreeing to terms on a contract extension with Red Zebra Broadcasting's WTEM, Washington "ESPN 980." Walker also serves as a sideline reporter for the Redskins Radio Network. Walker comments, "ESPN 980 is my anchor. We're building a championship team and I'm honored to be a part of it!"
Odds & Sods. Chattanooga talk show host Brian Joyce will interview former Pennsylvania Senator and current presidential candidate Rick Santorum in the studios of WGOW "Talk Radio 102.3" on Wednesday (6/10). Joyce tells TALKERS that his program was chosen for the appearance by Hamilton County GOP officials and that it's the first time in station history that an active, major presidential candidate has visited the studios. Santorum is in town to speak to a local GOP chapter…..Dallas market talk radio pro Mark Davis renews his deal with Salem Media Group to continue hosting the 7:00 am to 10:00 am program on KSKY "660 AM The Answer" through 2018. Davis also hosts the Friday morning edition of Salem Radio Network's "Morning in America" with Bill Bennett and will continue in that role. For years Davis was heard on Cumulus Media's crosstown news/talk WBAP…..At the iHeartMedia Albany cluster, Jeff Wolf is promoted to program director for news/talk WGY-AM/FM and sports talk WOFX "FOX Sports 980." Wolf replaces Josh Everett who recently moved to the company's Denver station group to serve as program director of talk outlets KHOW and KKZN…..In Washington, DC, Hubbard Radio's WTOP and WFED receive accolades from the Chesapeake Associated Press Broadcasters Association. WTOP was honored with nine CAPBA Awards, including an Outstanding Website award for WTOP.com. "Federal News Radio" was for best Multimedia/Online Journalism. Hubbard Washington SVP and general manager Joel Oxley says, "We have an outstanding group of journalists here in Washington, and it's always great to see their accomplishments recognized by our industry peers. It's particularly satisfying to see us awarded across the board – from commentary, to sports, to online journalism."
TalkersRadio Launching a New Talk Program about Animal Rights. TalkersRadio is launching a new show today (6/9) designed to "raise consciousness about the rights, feelings and dignity of our fellow earthly creatures." The magazine/interview program, titled "Vox Animali," is produced and hosted by award-winning radio journalist Lori Lundin. It will investigate industrial, corporate and domestic examples of institutionalized animal abuse in our society and spotlight progress being made in the animal rights movement to reverse the situation. Upon making the announcement of this new program's launch, TALKERS GM of broadcast operations David Bernstein states, "This is the kind of creative, leading-edge talk show that TalkersRadio was initially conceived to spawn and incubate. It is a subject that addresses a huge moral, societal need and there's a significant audience ready for it." TalkersRadio is an experimental, online radio platform launched two years ago to serve as a workshop for new, innovative programming concepts. Michael Harrison adds, "It is a privilege and pleasure working with so gifted a radio journalist as Lori Lundin. She brings tremendous experience, intelligence and integrity to all her work. Her compassion for the mistreated and suffering creatures of our world runs deep with authenticity and she brings an uncommon passion to this worthy project that is compelling indeed." Lori Lundin is a news anchor for WTOP, Washington, DC and a reporter for the Washington Examiner. She joined WTOP after hosting a national news program for the now-defunct America's Radio News Network. Prior to that she spent four-and-a-half years anchoring morning drive for FOX News Radio. She credits her reporting skills to the years she spent in Sacramento with heritage news/talker KFBK. Lundin has received a number of journalism awards, including a recent national Gracie, a regional Edward R. Murrow and National Headliner Award for a hard news feature, as well as the Northern California Radio and Television News Directors Association Award for breaking news coverage. She is also a recent breast cancer survivor who works to help and support other women "find meaning from a meaningless disease." Vox Animali episodes will feature new installments produced monthly and all will be available on demand on TalkersRadio (www.talkers.com/talkersradio). On launching the program, Lundin tells TALKERS, "I am so grateful to TalkersRadio for giving me this wonderful platform to talk about issues I care deeply about. I hope listeners find it interesting and informative as we talk to amazing people working to make this a more compassionate world. If being a voice for the voiceless can in some small way open hearts and minds, this will be a success." Vox Animali features a new theme intro/outro written and recorded for the program by Gunhill Road pianist Steve Goldrich. TalkersRadio is presently home to "Healed Planet," a monthly show about the human consciousness movement hosted by FOX News Radio host Alan Colmes and a variety of programs hosted and produced by Lionel of LionelMedia.com. It launched "American Family Farmer" hosted by Doug Stephan and "The Brent & Meg Show" hosted by Brent Seltzer and Meg McDonald – both now doing well in terrestrial radio syndication. To visit TalkersRadio, please click here.
Paul Williams and Tracey Jackson to Host 'Gratitude and Trust' Podcast. The "Gratitude and Trust" podcast featuring Oscar and Grammy-winning songwriter, and recovery advocate Paul Williams, and screenwriter and author Tracey Jackson, is available on PodcastOne. The two hosts are adapting ideas from their New York Times bestselling book Gratitude and Trust: Six Affirmations That Will Change Your Life to an audio program "through spirited conversation that educates and entertains, as much as it inspires and enlightens listeners with new insights on how to get what you want and how to keep it." The first episode features comedian and media personality Chris Hardwick followed by producer, director and screenwriter Judd Apatow on June 16. PodcastOne founder and CEO Norm Pattiz says, "I've known Paul forever and Tracey is someone you feel like you've known forever after spending 10 minutes in the same room. The stories, the guests, and the service that will permeate this new podcast make us all proud. I'm more than happy to welcome Paul and Tracey's 'Gratitude and Trust' podcast to our network."
Police Protests/Dallas Pool Party Incident, SCOTUS Born in Jerusalem Decision, Escaped New York Convicts, 2016 Presidential Race, ISIS Military Progress, TSA SNAFUs, Dennis Hastert Case, Obama Trade Deal, and NBA-NHL Finals Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (6/8). The controversial video of police breaking up a pool party in Texas and protests over police brutality against minorities; the Supreme Court's ruling on Jerusalem-birth certificate matter; the hunt for two murderers who escaped from a New York State prison; the activities of the candidates for president in 2016; the military progress of ISIS in Iraq and Syria; the TSA's missing 73 airport/airline employees on the terror watch list; the legal case surrounding former House Speaker Dennis Hastert; the controversy over the TTP trade deal; and the NBA and NHL Finals action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Jason Barrett to Leave KGMZ, San Francisco for Family Reasons. In an emotional-yet-reasoned blog post, sports talk programmer Jason Barrett explains the reason for his imminent departure from the PD position at Entercom's KGMZ "95.7 The Game." Barrett has been travelling from California to Upstate New York every two or three weeks to visit his son who is living with Barrett's parents. He says the physical and psychological toll on the arrangement is too much and, as much as he loves his gig in San Francisco, he's moving to New York to be with his son. Read the entire blog post here.
KCBS-AM, San Francisco's Cavagnaro Sets His Retirement. After spending 37 years at KCBS-AM, San Francisco, Ed Cavagnaro will retire in early-April as the station's director of news & programming. Senior vice president and market manager Doug Harvill states, "Ed Cavagnaro built and led KCBS-AM into its status as the Bay Area's number one radio station. He did this by hiring and managing an intelligent and capable news staff and empowering them to do their very best. Personally, I will greatly miss working with Ed. He's truly an inspirational leader and one of the best news people on the planet." The 63-year-old Cavagnaro comments, "There is a lot more to do and see – I didn't want to wait too long to try new things. I have been lucky to work at [KCBS-AM] for so long. It has been an honor to be the news and program director at such a great radio station working with so many talented people." The San Francisco native has a Masters degree from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University. He previously worked for the Medill News Service and he was an aide to a member of the San Francisco board of supervisors before joining KCBS-AM in 1977 as a promotion assistant. Cavagnaro subsequently held a variety of jobs at the station – including managing editor and assistant director of news & programming before being promoted to his present role in 1988.
Sports Talker Steve Czaban Celebrates 25th Anniversary. Sports talk personality Steve Czaban is celebrating his 25th year in the sports talk biz this year. Czaban co-hosts the afternoon drive show on Red Zebra-owned WTEM, Washington (with Chris Cooley) and also hosts the morning drive show on the Yahoo! Sports Radio network. Czaban comments, "Twenty five years presiding over some of the dumbest arguments in sports has flown by in a blink. I guess that's what happens when you are just trying to have fun with listeners every day on the radio. I am thankful to Yahoo! Sports Radio and WTEM for letting me do the kind of radio that is fun and engaging, and doesn't take itself or the sports we cover, too seriously."
Odds & Sods. Former KOTV-TV, Tulsa anchor/investigative reporter Tami Marler joins Journal Broadcast Group's KFAQ "Tulsa's Talk Radio" as executive producer/news director. Elsewhere at the station, part-time technical producer David Prock is boosted to full-time and will handle afternoon news updates…..After a year off terrestrial radio in the wake of the changes at Talk Radio Network, Rusty Humphries announces, via a video at The Washington Times, that he's beginning a weekly podcast called "The Rusty Humphries Rebellion."…..According to a story in The Oregonian, iHeartMedia's sports talk KPOJ will add a local morning drive show to the lineup beginning in March. The paper reports that current KIRO-AM, Seattle evening personalities Justin Myers and Andy Bunker will host the program. Myers tells the paper, "It's a huge opportunity because Portland doesn't have a morning show. That's the biggest thing – having a local morning show that people can listen to on their way to work is huge." An official announcement is expected in the next week…..Amanda Gifford is promoted to senior director, daytime programming, ESPN Audio. The sports giant says that Gifford will continue to oversee all aspects of "Mike & Mike," in addition to "The Herd with Colin Cowherd," "SVP & Russillo," and the Dan Le Batard show.
The Continuing Evolution of Dr. Joy Browne. The outstanding talk radio career of psychologist Dr. Joy Browne has spanned more than 35 years but the GCN-syndicated, nationally-known personality says her show is not the same as it was at the beginning. "The show has evolved so much in the last 30 years and I would argue that it even evolves on a day-to-day basis. It is never the same." Having survived a variety of movements and trends within the news/talk genre, including the present one marked by the domination of partisan politics, the Dr. Joy Browne show has remained a mainstay of talk radio programming in New York City as well as across America. "That," in the words of TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison, "is a remarkable accomplishment, considering how timid programmers can be about stretching the boundaries of their stationality and a stunning tribute to the universality of this remarkable talent's appeal." Now, Dr. Browne is again expanding her horizons with the enormous undertaking of entrepreneurship by assuming ownership of her show and all the responsibilities that such a commitment involves. In the words of TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey, "In an era when so many 'talent' are now facing the viable option of being in business for themselves, Dr. Joy Browne is setting an inspirational example of how it can be done." In a profile piece by TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian, Browne says that taking on the task of owning her show (as opposed to being an employee of a station or network) in today's business climate is challenging, but something she's set out to do because she loves what she does and successfully helping people is not only what makes the show work, but gives her satisfaction. "The only behavior I can help change is yours, but that isn't what a caller wants to hear. They want me to tell them that the other person is to blame. I have to change their mind but I don't have a lot of time to do it. We talk about the guts of a person's life – their job, income, relationship, sex life, kids, or a next-door neighbor. My job is to get through and when I do, there is nothing else like it in the world." Read the entire piece here.
Matt Patrick Helps Raise $$ for Fisher House Houston. Texas talk show host Matt Patrick (left) accepts a couple of awards from Fisher House manager Frank Kelley (right) on behalf of his listeners who pledged close to $40,000 to Fisher House in Houston last Veteran's Day weekend during the annual radiothon Patrick spearheads. Patrick is heard on iHeartMedia's KTRH, Houston; sister talk station KPRC, Houston and the company's talk KFXR, Dallas. The funds raised go to the two Fisher Houses in Houston's Medical Center.
Former Chicago Attorney, Talk Host, Sentenced on Fraud Conviction. Former attorney Kathleen Niew was sentenced to five years and 10 months in prison after defrauding a Chicago-area couple of $2.3 million. At one time Niew hosted a brokered, weekend call-in show on Salem Communications-owned WIND. According to a report in the Chicago Tribune, Niew led the couple to believe their money was being held for closings on commercial real estate deals. Instead, Niew was using their cash for wildly speculative gold mining operation investments around the world. Niew, who lost all of the couple's money, pleaded guilty last June to the fraud charges.
Brian Williams Suspended, ISIS Violence/Death of Kayla Mueller, 2016 Presidential Prospects, Net Neutrality Proposal, Bobbi Kristina Fate, and Jon Stewart to Leave 'Daily Show' Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (2/10). The controversy surrounding NBC's Brian Williams and his suspension from the network's news department; the violence being waged by ISIS and the death of American missionary Kayla Mueller; the potential candidates for president in 2016; the FCC's proposal to regulate the internet; the fate of Whitney Houston's daughter Bobbi Kristina; and Jon Stewart's announcement he'll leave the "Daily Show" this year were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Station Snapshot:
WMAL, Washington, DC
Cumulus talk outlet regaining prominence in nation's Capital Region
By Mike Kinosian
Managing Editor
LOS ANGELES — Even if not somewhat excusably misused, "heritage" is among the buzzwords many broadcasters hyperbolically invoke when proudly discussing their station and/or a particular on-air talent.
Not limited to a particular genre, it could apply to any format, although scores within the industry still choose to link "heritage" to dominant, institutional, full-service stations with larger-than-life personalities.
In the nation's capital, for instance, the mighty morning team of "Harden & Weaver," who beginning in 1960, prevailed in DC for approximately three decades, reinforced WMAL as "heritage" calls there.
Simultaneous with "Harden & Weaver" solidifying their own place in radio history (Frank Harden is now 92 — Jackson Weaver passed away in 1992), they were largely aiding to foster the station's legacy — the Cumulus Media-owned talker is flourishing in 2014.
Morning mall entertainment
Overseeing then Citadel-owned WMAL from Chicago, where he programmed sister talker WLS-AM, Drew Hayes in August 2010 brought in former Air America programming honcho Bill Hess as assistant program director. Approximately one year later, Cumulus acquired Citadel and Hess was elevated to program director.
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Chip Franklin Named Midday Host at KGO, San Francisco. The next step in returning KGO to its talk roots from the newsy experiment that began a few years ago comes as Chip Franklin takes over the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm slot beginning December 8. Franklin has had long talk radio stints – most recently with KOGO, San Diego from 2007 to 2013 and with WBAL, Baltimore from 1999 to 2007 – and is also working writing position pieces and prep for guests on "Real Time with Bill Maher," "Good Morning America" and "Face the Nation." He also regularly appears at comedy clubs across the U.S. On his new gig, Franklin comments, "The current narrative is that San Francisco is all liberals, progressives and Democrats mixed in with the occasional 4.9. Maybe, but I see it more as a city that simply embraces freedom and more to the point, the free expression of ideas regardless of ideology. Whether it's politics, art, music or comedy, it all starts with a passion for discovery – discovery of life here in the Bay area, the wider world, and our inner lives." Cumulus Media EVP of content and programming John Dickey says, "KGO strives to inform and entertain the Bay Area with relevant news and compelling talk hosted by big personalities. Chip Franklin's point of view, intelligence and wit are going to drive some amazing conversations on KGO."
Odds & Sods. WABC, New York and CBS "Inside Edition" special correspondent Rita Cosby celebrated her 50th birthday hosting a special benefit for the Wounded Warriors Project at the Hotel Edison in New York City recently. Among the 1,000-plus guests and celebs attending the fundraiser were fellow WABC personalities Curtis Sliwa and Geraldo Rivera. Cosby is pictured here in this photo, (courtesy of Nicole Vranjican), with Broadway's Tomaczek Bednarek at the event. Read more about the party here…..WPGG, Atlantic City talk show host Harry Hurley is named to the PolitickerNJ's "2014 Power List." This is the eighth time Hurley – morning personality on the Townsquare Media news/talk station – has been named to the list…..Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that Tribune's WGN, Chicago adds former Sun-Times columnist and critic Dave Hoekstra who will host his weekly "Evening Journal" radio program on the station beginning in December. The program will air Saturday evenings.
'Sports Fix' Celebrates Five Years on WTEM, Washington. Washington, DC midday sports talk show "The Sports Fix" with Kevin Sheehan and Thom Loverro is celebrating its fifth anniversary on Red Zebra Broadcasting's WTEM "ESPN 980." The station says the program "has been a ratings leader, achieving #1-ratings in its time slot throughout the five-year run." Vice president of programming Chuck Sapienza adds, "'The Sports Fix' has been a constant performer. Kevin, Thom and producer Marc Sterne perform at a high level every day and it shows in their consistency and ratings success."
Clear Channel Satellite Services to Serve iHeartMedia Only. In a story by Leslie Stimson at Radio World, iHeartMedia, the parent company of Clear Channel Satellite Services, is informing clients that it will no longer provide satellite services to non-iHeartMedia operators. Contracts currently existing will be honored until they expire and the company will not accept new ones. A memo from CCSS reads, in part: "In the coming weeks, our team will be working with the existing customers to discuss the best way for a smooth transition to a new provider. Customers with soon-expiring contracts will have the option to continue their service on a month-to-month basis until we've found a suitable assignee for the business."
October Revenue Gains Reported in Los Angeles, San Diego. According to Miller Kaplan Arase's October summary report, Los Angeles posted increases of 3% for local spot and nearly double that (5.7%) for national spot. Meanwhile, San Diego was +1.3% local spot and a substantially higher +18% for national spot. Southern California Broadcasters Association president Thom Callahan comments, "Our entire region produced a very robust October as the critical fourth quarter began. The sluggish third quarter performance we had is a distant memory, as advertisers once again looked to Southern California radio for increased market share and real revenue results. Our combined market growth in October should set the stage for a dramatic and positive finish for [fourth quarter] and 2014. Our members' efforts to provide proactive solutions to client challenges really came together in October. We see enormous positive energy in our markets and our continued regional focus on radio's ROI is making a difference for all of our member sales teams." Revenue in the "NTR/Network/Other" category improved last month by a whopping (approximately) 63% in Los Angeles and 26.3% in San Diego. October's total market revenue for Los Angeles was 7.1%, while San Diego's was 8.8%. Year-to-date total market revenue though is -2.2% (Los Angeles) and 2.9% (San Diego).
Ferguson Grand Jury Tensions, Jerusalem Terror Attacks, Keystone Bill Vote, Early Cold and Snow, ObamaCare/Gruber Controversy, and Bill Cosby Rape Allegations Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (11/18). The simmering tensions in Ferguson as the public awaits the grand jury's decision whether to indict Darren Wilson in the shooting death of Michael Brown; Tuesday's slayings in a Jerusalem temple; the failed vote in the U.S. Senate to move ahead with the Keystone Pipeline project; the six feet of snow that blanketed Buffalo and the cold affecting the rest of the country; the ObamaCare controversy surrounding plan architect Jonathan Gruber; and the new allegations of rape against Bill Cosby were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Monday, August 11, 2014
ESPN Suspends Kellerman. There is yet more fallout related to the ugly domestic violence incident that led to Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice's two-game ban for domestic violence. As we have already reported, ESPN suspended Stephen A. Smith for a week after the commentator suggested that women should be careful not to "provoke" domestic violence incidents. Smith labeled those comments the biggest mistake of his career and he apologized for making the inference. The network has now reportedly handed out a suspension to ESPN Los Angeles (KSPN) and "SportsNation" host Max Kellerman, who acknowledged hitting his girlfriend quite a few years ago. Kellerman was talking with Steve Mason & John Ireland, whose radio program precedes the one co-hosted by Kellerman and former NFL player Marcellus Wiley ("Max & Marcellus," weekdays 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm). Kellerman was recollecting a college-era incident involving his then-girlfriend. She and Kellerman had been drinking and according to Kellerman, they slapped each other. Kellerman stressed that the two have been happily married (for roughly 20 years). In a statement ESPN released last Friday (8/8), the network would not confirm the suspension, but stated, "Max Kellerman will return to ESPN Los Angeles Radio and SportsNation on Thursday [8/14]." In addition to his ESPN duties, Kellerman is an HBO Sports boxing analyst. As you might recall, Rice and his then-fiancée, Janay Palmer, who is now his wife, were involved in a physical altercation with each other this past February. Rice was suspended by the NFL for violating its personal-conduct policy.
Cumulus Rumored to Be Eying Dan Snyder's Red Zebra DC Properties. The story is reported by Dave Hughes' DCRTV.com that Cumulus Media is interested in the four signals that make up the Red Zebra Washington, DC-area cluster, including WTEM, Washington; WSPZ, Bethesda, Maryland; WWXT-FM, Prince Frederick, Maryland; and WWXX, Buckland, Virginia. The station group has been on the block for a while and DCRTV.com speculates that Cumulus would like to get its country "NASH FM" format into the Washington metro.
Joe Pags to Be Interim 'America Now' Host. The 130 affiliates of Premiere Networks' "America Now" program will be getting San Antonio-based talk personality Joe "Pags" Pagliarulo. Joe Pags tells TALKERS magazine that the syndicated program – which until recently featured Andy Dean as host – will carry his daily show based at WOAI and that is also heard on Clear Channel-owned stations KPRC, Houston; KEX, Portland; KHOW, Denver; and KTLK, Minneapolis, for the foreseeable future while a new host for the show is sought.
Saga Communications Reports Flat Q2. On 2014 second quarter operating revenue of $33.8 million, Saga Communications announces it was compared to the same period a year ago. Other figures reported include: operating income from continuing operations was $8.2 million; net income for the period was $4.8 million; and free cash flow was $5.9 million. Station operating expense was $23.5 million (station operating expense includes depreciation and amortization attributable to the stations). Net operating revenue for the period ended June 30, 2014 increased 0.7% to $63.3 million compared to $62.8 million for the same period last year.
WRHD, Greenville Flips to Sports Talk. Dropping the adult contemporary format for sports talk is Inner Banks Media-owned AC WRHD, Greenville, North Carolina "Star 94.3" which begins a new life as "94.3 The Game." The station is using regional sports talk from Capitol Broadcasting's Raleigh-Durham sports stations "ESPN Triangle" and Fox Sports Radio content. Morning drive features WDNC, Durham personalities Mike & Mark (Mike Maniscalco and Mark Thomas) and WCMC, Raleigh afternoon drivers Adam Gold and Joe Ovies. Middays include FSRN's Andy Furman and Mike North followed by Jay Mohr. Evenings and weekends feature FSRN programming.
New Production Facility to Coincide with Kim Komando TV Show Evolution. As the Kim Komando program continues its evolution from a pure radio program to a combo radio/digital TV show, WestStar MultiMedia Entertainment announces it is procuring a new 24,000 square foot live facility in central Phoenix to be the new home of the company. WestStar president and CEO Barry Young says, "Over the past year, we have been experimenting with a live HD video production of the Kim Komando show. While we cannot envision any scenario whereby we would move away from our core product, radio, we also realize that the 'core product' is changing rapidly. Radio producers who rely on a 'one-camera web-shot' video product will be caught short of the new standard. For this reason, we believe that nothing less than a full digital HD video production, suitable to network and broadcast syndication, is appropriate for an established benchmark program such as the Kim Komando show. That level of production, together with future projects still under wraps, is not possible with anything less than a major-league production facility, such as the one we are building here in Phoenix." The company says that the new facility (seen in the artist's rendering here) will be fully operational by May of 2015 and will serve as the new home to WestStar Corporate Offices, broadcast, digital sales, entertainment, film operations, 24-hour network broadcast operations center and all online operations. The plant will incorporate five digital radio broadcast studios, two voice-over studios, two digital radio production rooms, three digital video production edit rooms, radio master control, television master control, a 2,500 square foot television sound stage and a high-security server hosting facility.
Setting Up WordPress and PodPress for a Podcast. Syndicated talk show host Michael W. Dean began his radio program as a podcast. He writes a brief column for TALKERS today (8/11) that introduces his philosophy of podcasting and provides a link to a step-by-step video that shows talk show producers how to navigate WordPress and the PodPress plugin to get their programs up and running. Check it out here.
Kenny Loggins Guests on 'The Saturday Café' on WABC, New York. Music icon Kenny Loggins was Laura Smith's guest on WABC's "Saturday Café" this past weekend. The show aired at 7:00 pm on Saturday during which Loggins talked about writing songs as a teen, touring the world with his new shows, and his passion for music. He also promoted his latest project – a new album with a country/rock trio called The Blue Sky Riders – that is being released through a Kickstarter campaign. Pictured here are Loggins (left) and Smith (right).
Los Angeles Radio Mourns George Nicholaw's Passing. Owing to the fact that George Nicholaw was among a rare group of radio general managers who passionately and regularly delivered on-air editorials, listeners to Los Angeles all-news operation KNX were very familiar with his name and voice. The longtime Southern California broadcaster was 85 when he passed away this past Saturday (8/9). Nicholaw had been with CBS Radio-owned KNX for 36 years (1967-2003), including when the station adopted its all-news format in 1968. Exiting the station at the age of 74, he filed what proved to be an unsuccessful lawsuit against KNX ownership for age discrimination. Regarding Nicholaw, veteran KNX business anchor Frank Mottek commented, "He was a fine gentleman and a broadcast pioneer. He took an enormous amount of pride in journalism, and in excellence in broadcasting." On his Facebook page, former KNX anchor Larry Van Nuys notes, "I am saddened by the passing of broadcasting giant George Nicholaw. While I can't claim to have known him well, I can say it is a great loss to all of us who admired him. I, along with so many others, benefitted from his journalistic integrity, broadcasting courage and lasting legacy. He had talent, great understanding, and class." Nicholaw died at his home after being hospitalized with an infection.
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
Dan Mandis Hosts Early Afternoon Show at WWTN, Nashville. Talk radio pro Dan Mandis is the new 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm personality at Cumulus Media's WWTN, Nashville "SuperTalk 99.7." Mandis, who spent years as executive producer of the Dr. Laura Program, has most recently been programming such talk radio outlets as Clear Channel's KHOW and KKZN in Denver and Federated Media's WOWO, Fort Wayne. He also hosted the Saturday morning show on KOA, Denver. With Mandis' arrival at "SuperTalk 99.7," the station is now live and local from 5:00 am to 7:00 pm. He'll follow morning host Ralph Bristol and late morning personality Michael DelGiorno while leading into PM drive host Phil Valentine. WWTN program director Brian Wilson states, "We think Dan's view of the world is just familiar enough to be comfortable for our audience and at the same time just different enough that he'll make a lot of people stop and think twice about the disease behind the symptoms. As the fourth leg to the table, we think all our core shows will complement each other. The effect is that the whole will be greater than the sum of the parts." Mandis comments, "There are so many reasons to be excited about this opportunity. Being part of an amazing talk radio station on FM is one, and living in a great city like Nashville is another. I honestly can't wait to get started."
'PowerTalk 96.7' Fresno Host Bill Manders Receives Kidney from Teen Suicide Victim. Afternoon drive personality Bill Manders returned to his show on Clear Channel's news/talk duo KALZ and KRZR in Fresno after kidney transplant surgery three weeks ago. According to local TV station KFSN, Manders received a kidney from a local teen who had just committed suicide. It turns out 17-year-old Lexi Morris' father Jason is a regular listener to Manders' program and made the unusual request that Manders receive his daughter's kidney. As the story notes, this is not the usual procedure but the kidney was a perfect match. Manders tells the TV station, "I was in tears when I heard her story, but I would rather concentrate on the plusses in her life. She was smart, athletic, she has a great family, and I know she's there looking down on me, so I've got to honor her." Read the whole story here.
Marc Hochman Officially Signs with Beasley to Host PM Drive on WQAM, Miami. Nothing is ever official until the contract is signed but Marc Hochman's departure from Lincoln Financial Media's crosstown WAXY last fall with the intent on sitting out his non-compete and landing in PM drive at WQAM was one of radio's worst-kept secrets. As soon as it was legal (at 12:01 am on 4/1), Hochman (second from left) inked a pact with WQAM to begin his run as the station's afternoon personality. The new Marc Hochman show will also feature Zach Krantz (right), former Miami Dolphins cheerleader Sha Tabb (second from right), and longtime WQAM producer Victor Bermudez (left). WQAM program director Andy King says, "Marc is an incredible talent and one of the most creative minds in radio. His ability to blend sports, pop culture and humor into an entertaining show has led him to tremendous success throughout his career and I'm excited for him to continue that success here at 560 WQAM." Hochman adds, "I am the quintessential 'radio nerd,' so the opportunity for me to host an afternoon drive show on the most legendary sports talk station in Miami was one that I couldn't pass up. When I first moved to Miami in 1987, I listened to WQAM all the time. Now, a little over 25 years later, I'll be sitting behind that microphone, and I couldn't be more thrilled!" The station also announces that one of the most legendary voices in South Florida sports history, Howard Schnellenberger, has signed on as the imaging voice of the Marc Hochman show. All the show intros and production will be voiced by Schnellenberger.
Melanie Morgan Returns to Radio in Santa Rosa. Long time Bay Area news radio and talk radio pro Melanie Morgan (formerly with Cumulus Media's KGO and KSFO, San Francisco and, for a time, with TRN's "America's Morning News") joined Sonoma Media Group-owned KSRO, Santa Rosa, California as news director and morning anchor. She began her news director duties yesterday (3/31) and starts on-air next Monday (4/7). Melanie replaces a heritage morning news anchor, David Wesley Page, who retired from radio about a month ago after nearly 30 years on the KSRO morning news. Morgan is married to former longtime KGO program director Jack Swanson.
Brian Mitchell and Scott Jackson Re-Up with WTEM, Washington. Two of Doc Walker's co-hosts on Red Zebra Broadcasting's WTEM, Washington "ESPN980" are in the fold for another three years. The company announces that Brian Mitchell and Scott Jackson have extended their contracts with the station, keeping them on the "Inside the Locker Room" with Walker through 2017. The mid-afternoon show teams former Washington Redskins Doc Walker and Brian Mitchell along with veteran talk show host Scott Jackson. Mitchell has been a part of the "ESPN980" family for five years. Brian also is a contributing member of the Washington Redskins Radio Network, offering analysis pre-game, post-game and during halftime. Jackson has worked at WTEM for nine years and will serve in many additional roles, including hosting "Redskins Recap," Mondays after Washington Redskins games and as the station's lead NBA analyst. Vice president of programming Chuck Sapienza says, "'Inside the Locker Room' has been a ratings success. To have all three guys under contract for the next few years makes our station stronger. Doc, B-Mitch and Jack have so much fun on the air, you can't help but laugh along with them while listening."
Business Rockstars Radio Affiliates with CRN Digital Talk Radio. This week "Business Rockstars Radio," hosted by Ken Rutkowski began an affiliation relationship with CRN Digital Talk Radio. The program that features "Rockstar" CEOs, entrepreneurs, and start-ups targeting the 30 million "Wantrepreneurs" in the U.S., joins CRN's integrated audio platform combining television, radio and social media. CRN Digital Talk Radio CEO Mike Horn says, "We're thrilled about our new partnership with 'Business Rockstars Radio,' a show with such compelling content, we've decided to air it three different times across our platform. 'Business Rockstars Radio' is the only national entrepreneurial radio show that brings in 'Rockstar' CEOs and entrepreneurs combined with the magic of Ken Rutkowki's talent and continuing with each guest on the show. We are also excited to partner with the legendary Steve Lehman, a name synonymous with cutting-edge talk radio." Lehman adds, "We're excited to expand the Business Rockstars Radio footprint by joining Mike Horn's renowned CRN Digital Talk Radio Network. This new alliance will add an additional 11 million television households across the U.S. to the Business Rockstars Radio Network, allowing us to reach more 'Wantrepreneurs' with fun, fast-paced, and compelling content about growing, starting, and funding businesses." Business Rockstars Radio guests include some of the biggest CEOs and entrepreneurs daily, including: Nolan Bushnell (Atari and Chuck E. Cheese Founder), Akon (musician and entrepreneur), Daymond John (Host of ABC's "Shark Tank"), Cheryl Tiegs (model, actress and entrepreneur), Thom Beers (CEO of Freemantle Media), Scott Painter (Founder and CEO of TruCar) and many others.
Sports Talk Post-Super Bowl. The American sports (and money!) juggernaut that is the National Football League plays a huge role in the success of sports talk radio in America. Not to disparage the MLB, NBA, NHL and NCAA, but it's clearly the most successful and popular league in professional sports in America. So, what effect does the end of the NFL's season the first weekend in February have on sports talk stations? TALKERS managing editor and West Coast bureau chief Mike Kinosian takes an in-depth look at sports talk radio's performance in PPM markets leading up to the Super Bowl and in the month that follows. Check out his report here.
McHale Named VP/CTO for Journal Broadcast Group. The Milwaukee-based company announces Brian McHale is its new vice president and chief technology officer, overseeing "the leadership, management, implementation and long-term planning of the company's technical and physical infrastructure across its 13 television stations and 35 radio stations in 11 states." Journal Broadcast Group also says McHale will "ensure the efficient and on-schedule delivery of media content, identify emerging technologies and how to profitably deploy them, and work closely with Journal's leadership team to develop the company's operational and strategic direction." McHale comes to Journal from Seattle's Fisher Communications where he was vice president of technology.
How to Help Your Remote Guests Shine. Radio is a busy business and sometimes hosts must process guests with a level of assembly-line speed that doesn't always allow for the kind of attention to detail that can make the difference between a quality broadcast and a tune-out. Many interviews on radio sound like there was no forethought to audio quality. And many guests sound like they were thrown into an unfamiliar situation with no preparation. In a very helpful, extensive advice piece posted today (4/1) Genesis Communications Network (GCN) talk show host Michael W. Dean ("The Freedom Feens" and "Michael Dean After Dark") offers advice on how to maximize the quality of your remote guests covering everything from programming content to technical delivery in today's frenzied radio environment. To read it in its entirety, please click here.
ObamaCare Criticism, Russian Aggression, North and South Korean Tensions, Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 Discrepancies, Global Warming, and "Noah" Criticism Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/31). Scrutiny of the rollout and effects of the Affordable Care Act; the international implications of Russia's aggression in Ukraine and Eastern Europe and President Obama's dealings with Vladimir Putin; heating tensions between North and South Korea; conflicting information from the Malaysian government about the disappearance of Flight 370; renewed debate about global climate change; and criticism of the new film "Noah" were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Bid4Spots: Auction an Alternative to Unsold Inventory. In a piece published today (7/23), TALKERS managing editor and West Coast bureau chief Mike Kinosian profiles Dave Newmark's successful Bid4Spots digital auction initiative. There was a time when numerous players were getting into the business of using the internet to deal with unsold inventory on radio stations. Dave Newmark tells Mike Kinosian why the others failed and how he struggled to find the right business model that would eventually lead to success. It was during a casual conversation with a software developer when he had an epiphany. "I immediately thought of those ad exchanges and I realized what they all had wrong. They had the supply and demand equation backwards. Forward auctions work well only when the demand is high and the supply is low. If I could figure out when demand would be at its lowest point – when regular airtime buyers were pretty much gone from the store – it would be as close to 'next week' as possible." Newmark's road to success was not a smooth one. In this fascinating piece he details his trials and tribulations. He also explains why stations and advertisers are happy with his model of moving unsold inventory. Read it all here.
Are You a Thinker or a Feeler? More importantly, are your listeners and callers thinkers or feelers? In a new TALKERS column posted today (7/23) by branding specialist Dr. John Tantillo, he states that understanding the difference between these two approaches to the issues of the day can have an impact on your show and determine how effectively you orchestrate discussions of them on the air. Using the examples of the current Zimmerman verdict and Rolling Stone cover controversy, Dr. Tantillo examines the relationship between branding and controversy pointing out that the most important thing to focus upon is how the controversy directly impacts the customer's (or fan's) loyalty to the brand and nobody else's. He says we should be less concerned about public relations and more interested in "targeted relations." To read the entire column, please click here.
Emmis CEO Jeff Smulyan Named Among 'Giants of Broadcasting' Honorees. This is the 11th annual staging of the "Giants of Broadcasting" that is sponsored by the Library of American Broadcasting. It celebrates "distinguished leadership or performance in television and radio" and will take place October 16 at New York's Gotham Hall. Smulyan is among 11 honorees this year including Anne Sweeney, Alex Trebek, Barry Diller, Morley Safer, Dick Cavett, Robert L. Johnson, David E. Kelley, Richard E. Wiley, Richard Leibner and Carole Cooper. The Library of American Broadcasting is located at the University of Maryland and the organization states it is "entering its 42nd year serving as the national information resource for the radio and television industries and the academic communities that rely upon it for depth and expertise. Its collections of historic documents, professional papers, oral and video histories, books and photographs are among the nation's most extensive."
Red Zebra Re-Tools Afternoons on WTEM, Washington. Recently retired Washington Redskins star Chris Cooley becomes part of the new "The Drive with Cooley and Czabe" afternoon program on Red Zebra-owned sports talk outlet WTEM, Washington "ESPN 980". Cooley – who just joined the station for Washington Redskins game broadcasts with the company – joins Steve Czaban and WTEM weekend host Al Galdi for the new program that will debut August 1 and will air from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Czaban currently hosts "The Sports Reporters" with Andy Pollin in the afternoon drive slot. Red Zebra says Pollin remains with the station and will sub for the vacationing Tony Kornheiser beginning August 5. About the new show, Czaban jokes, "I will work tirelessly to make Chris Cooley the second-most-beloved ex-Redskin tight end on radio in the DC market."
MEDIA BROKER SPOTLIGHT: Mark Jorgenson of Jorgenson Broadcast Brokerage. In this week's installment of Media Broker Spotlight, Sandi Bergman of RadioTVDeals.com interviews media broker Mark Jorgenson of Jorgenson Broadcast Brokerage of Greenville, South Carolina. Jorgenson was a 12-year veteran of television sales and radio ownership in Southeastern markets before deciding that he liked putting deals together better than he did operating stations. He says, "I enjoy matching people up with great opportunities and that's what the brokerage business is all about." Jorgenson describes today's radio station market as "sluggish due to a lack of capital to finance deals." He says, "There are plenty of potential buyers and even more potential sellers but without institutional financing to make the deals happen, we won't see the volume of transactions we've seen in the past. Brokers have to be creative and persistent to make deals happen in today's financial climate." He continues, "There are even radio deals where some portion of the purchase price might be handled with a seller note. The key is for the buyer to have access to at least some cash. Private investors, family, and friends are the most likely source to finance new ventures these days." To read the entire installment of Media Broker Spotlight, please click here.
Talkers Los Angeles 2013 Is Set for Thursday, October 10. The third annual installment of TALKERS magazine's West Coast convention has been set for Thursday, October 10 and its outstanding agenda is shaping up to be a blockbuster. It is again being presented in association with the Los Angeles Press Club and held at the historic Steve Allen Theater on Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm. TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey states, "We are very enthusiastic about the growth and positive impact of this Southern California gathering. It started out three years ago as an experimental LA regional get-together and blossomed into an exciting companion to our big New York convention." The event – open only to members of the working media – will feature a power-packed day of panel discussions, keynote addresses, special presentations, technology and services exhibits, tremendous networking opportunities and abundant food and refreshments (lunch is sponsored by Premiere Networks and Fox News Channel star Sean Hannity who will address the attendees from New York). Speakers already set include (in alphabetical order): Robin Bertolucci, PD, KFI, Los Angeles; Phil Boyce, VP spoken word format, Salem Communications; Holland Cooke, radio consultant; Skip Essick, PD, KMJ-AM/FM, Fresno; Erica Farber,CEO/president, RAB; Ron Hartenbaum, president, WYD/WYM Media; Rusty Humphries, host, Talk Radio Network; Kraig Kitchin, CEO, Sound Mind, LLC; Tom Leykis, president, The New Normal; Don Martin, senior VP sports programming, Fox Sports Radio/Clear Channel Media and Entertainment; Kevin McCullough, CEO, XtreMedia; Mike McVay, senior VP programming, Cumulus Media; Harvey Nagler, VP, CBS Radio News; Norm Pattiz, CEO, Courtside Entertainment/Podcast One; Chris Pendl, creative director, Bonneville Seattle; Walter Sabo, CEO, Sabo Media; Eric Stanger, VP of operations and affiliate marketing, The Sean Hannity Show/Premiere Networks; Alan Stock, host, KDWN, Las Vegas; Paul Vandenburgh, president/GM/host, WGDJ, Albany; and Michael Zwerling, owner, KSCO, Santa Cruz with many more to be announced in the coming days. The latest broadcasting equipment and remote gear will be on display as presented by Broadcasters General Store and Comrex Corporation. Registrations – $149 per person – can only be taken over the phone and the event is expected to be a very early sellout. So don't wait – avoid being shut out. For sponsorship information or to register, call 413-565-5413.
WFAS, White Plains Afternoon Host Lisa Wexler to Run for Judicial Office. Lisa Wexler is an attorney and currently the PM drive talk host on Cumulus Media's news/talk WFAS, White Plains, New York. She tells TALKERS magazine she's being nominated to run as a Republican for the Probate Judge of Weston and Westport (Connecticut) in November. "I've practiced this area of law for many years, and I'm very excited to run and be able to serve the people with knowledge and compassion." Wexler notes the position is part time and, if elected, she will be able to continue her radio work.
WRSB, Canandaigua, New York to Flip to Business Talk. The station was purchased earlier this summer by Genesee Media Corporation and has been serving the area south of Rochester with a religious format. According to YNN.com, GMC will brand the station "Business 1310" and will use programming from Bloomberg, NBC News and Marketwatch. The report also indicates that Genesee intends to add the programming to other AM signals in the region.
Sonoma Media Group Announces Kevin Wodlinger Is New Local Business Development Manager. The company says Kevin Wodlinger comes to its five-station Santa Rosa, California cluster from his most recent position in Grand Junction, Colorado as market manager for the Cumulus Media cluster that is now owned by Townsquare Media. Wodlinger replaces longtime employee Jeriann D'Elicio, who recently announced her resignation. Michael O'Shea, president of Sonoma Media Group, comments, "Kevin is the real deal – a consummate sales executive with a great track record of teaching, coaching and leading in local business development. We are delighted to have his expertise and leadership in our building." The company operates news/talk KSRO, country KFGY "Froggy 92.9," classic rock KVRV "97.7 The River FM," hot AC KMHX "Mix 104.9," and CHr KHTH "Hot 101.7."
New Motor Sports Network to Begin Operations. The Midwest Racing Radio Network announces it is preparing to begin operations and has named Brian Douglas vice president of broadcast operations. Douglas also serves as host. The company states it will initially feature one two-hour motorsports show via live audio stream and podcast in a format for broadcast stations to air daily five days a week. Also, the network will feature a live one-hour Sunday evening program and a national highlights podcast show containing results, interviews, and the upcoming regional racing schedules as submitted from tracks across the country.
Cigar Dave Goes Live on TV. Nationally syndicated media personality "Cigar Dave" Zeplowitz is pictured here (at right) hosting the first-ever live televised broadcasts from the 2013 International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers Convention at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas. The telecasts aired live on Sunday, July 14, Monday, July 15 and Tuesday, July 16. Cigar Dave reports his telecasts featured new premium cigar releases and accessories, interviews with premium cigar manufacturers and personalities, and presented viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the IPCPR Convention, that up to now, has been closed to the general public and only open to the trade. "Cigar Dave" says, "This marks the next evolution of the Cigar Dave Show as we transition into a digital, multi-platform provider of relevant content for Alpha Males. Eighteen years ago, I was the first broadcaster to host a radio show dedicated to cigars and the Alpha Male-lifestyle. This year's live IPCPR telecasts commence a major expansion into televised and digital content that appeals to Alpha Males and a new generation of Millennial Males who enjoy cigars, spirits, manly pursuits, and the Good Life."
Odds & Sods. Public radio station WKSU, Kent, Ohio drops some of the daily classical music programming to add NPR's "The Takeaway" with John Hockenberry and "On Point" with Tom Ashford to the midday schedule…..Sun Broadcasting changes the news/talk trimulcast of WFSX-AM and FM and WNOG-AM in Fort Myers. It keeps WFSX-FM news/talk as "92.5 Fox News" and pairs up the AMs as a sports talk duo "The Fan."
ObamaCare Implementation, Detroit Bankruptcy, Zimmerman Verdict Aftermath, 2016 Presidential Race, U.S. Syria Policy and British Prince Born Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/22). The delay of the employer mandate and the implementation of the Affordable Care Act; the bankruptcy case of the city of Detroit; the aftermath of the George Zimmerman verdict; the potential candidates in the 2016 presidential race; the United States' policy regarding Syria; and the birth of the son of Prince William and Kate Middleton were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Monday, June 24, 2013
Arbitron Files Complaint Against Renda's Jacksonville Stations. Renda is a subscriber to Arbitron in some markets but hasn't been a subscriber for its Jacksonville stations since 2010. In the complaint filed in United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida Jacksonville Division, Arbitron alleges that Renda Jacksonville general manager Bill Reese received printed and emailed data from a senior executive at a local advertising agency of whom Reese is a professional and personal friend on numerous occasions throughout 2011 and 2012. The complaint also cites sales manager Charlie Jennings, program director Chuck Beck and air personality Arthur Crofton as receiving the data. Arbitron is seeking $150,000 per act in an amount not less than $500,000 plus attorneys' fees.
Possible Sports Talk Shake-Up in Dallas. The Dallas Morning News' Barry Horn is reporting that sports KTCK, Dallas early afternoon duo Bob Sturm (l) and Dan McDowell (r) – known as BaD Radio – are in negotiations to move to CBS Radio's crosstown KRLD-FM "105.3 The Fan" for the 10:00 am to 2:00 pm slot. Horn reports that "Ticket types" are not confident the duo will remain with Cumulus Media's KTCK and expects that the deal could be done as soon as today (6/24).
Tavis Smiley and BlogTalkRadio Ink Deal. According to a report in The New York Times, public radio broadcaster Tavis Smiley is entering into a deal with Alan Levy's BlogTalkRadio in which Smiley will produce and anchor a daily program for the internet talk radio site and will produce shows for other contributors under his Tavis Smiley Network banner. Levy tells the paper Smiley is the first broadcaster to be paid to work for BlogTalkRadio. As with the other talk show hosts on the service, Smiley and BlogTalkRadio will split any revenue that is brought to the programs. Smiley's program – which will last 20 minutes or as long as he feels like talking – will consist of interviews and interaction with listeners.
You Only Need 1,000 Fans to Make a Living in this Business. That was one of the eye-opening facts presented by radio consultant Holland Cooke at the recent Talkers New York 2013 conference (6/6). In a concise, information-packed presentation titled "Resourceful and Remarkable," Cooke outlines the tremendous benefits talk radio broadcasters can achieve and exploit by properly and effectively using Twitter. Now, you can see the entire not-to-be-missed Holland Cooke presentation, power point slides and all, at TalkersTV by clicking here.
Sam Huff Retires from Washington Redskins Radio Network. Washington Redskins great Sam Huff announces that after 38 years in the radio booth broadcasting the team's games, he's ending his regular work with the team's network. Huff states, "I've enjoyed every game that I played, coached and provided color commentary over the last 50 years with the Washington Redskins. I look forward to joining Larry, Sonny and Doc on the pregame show a few times this season." Red Zebra Brodcasting CEO Rick Carmean says, "This is truly the end of an era. You cannot think Redskins Radio without Sam and Sonny. We support Sam's decision and look forward to having him as a special guest during the season." The team says Huff will be honored during a pregame ceremony at a to-be-determined Redskins game. Red Zebra's WTEM, Washington "ESPN 980" serves as flagship for the network.
Seattle Broadcast Legend Pat O'Day to Host Seafair Hydro Race Special on KIRO-FM. The news was shocking to many Emerald City residents when it was announced that local broadcast legend Pat O'Day would not host television coverage of the Hydroplane Race that takes place during the city's Seafair in early August – something he's done since 1966. Bonneville's KIRO-FM is bringing O'Day aboard to host the coverage of the race on the radio. The announcement was made on the station's "Ron and Don Show." The show's Don O'Neill states, "Pat is a Seattle broadcasting legend, and we're really excited to share his longtime experience as the voice of Seafair on our airwaves. Pat and the Seafair hydros have both been a part of our community for many years and we're not ready for that to end." O'Day became known as the "Godfather of Northwest Rock" while making his name as an afternoon DJ in the 1960s. He says of joining KIRO-FM for the race, "It's been my joy to make contributions to the sport, but above all to make a contribution to our great, treasured festival called Seafair. I feel very honored to be a part of Seafair for the past 46 years and am looking forward to sharing my perspective with KIRO Radio listeners."
KODI, Cody, Wyoming Host Arrested for Voting as a Convicted Felon. "Speak Your Piece" co-host David Koch was arrested on Friday, June 21 state officials for allegedly voting in elections in the state as a convicted felon – a crime in Wyoming. Koch was convicted of first-degree burglary and second-degree theft in Alaska in 1993 and he admitted to voting in elections over the past couple of years after taking an oath in 2009 that he had never been convicted of a felony. The issue came to light when a caller to his radio program who had obviously researched Koch's past, pressed him on the voting issue and he admitted to the convictions and to voting. The Casper Star Tribune reports Big Horn Radio Network general manager Roger Gelder states Koch is still employed with the radio station and will let the legal system decide his fate. Each count is punishable by up to five years in jail and a $10,000 fine.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Conclusion of Election Raises Inevitable Questions. The dramatic and contentious election of 2012 has finally come to a conclusion. As President Barack Obama prepares to begin his second term as the nation's chief executive with control of the House and Senate split between the parties, inevitable questions arise about the path and positioning of news/talk radio in the new political environment. How does the re-election of Obama impact the agendas of conservative and liberal talk radio? How long will it take before political presidential jockeying overtly begins as the periods between election cycles grow shorter? What are the economic implications of this election? How will the economy affect the radio industry in general? Will the current advertising agency hostility toward conservative talk radio intensify or dissipate? What will be the new, unexpected issues that dominate on-air conversation as we move beyond the deafening chatter of Election 2012? TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison has already begun fielding these questions from the nation's radio-watchers in the mainstream press. According to Harrison very little will change in terms of the on-air party lines: "As much as I encourage talk radio to expand the menu of its subject matter and spread out into a diversity of formats and subjects – which I actually believe will happen in the coming year or two — don't expect to see a sudden change or modification of positioning among the ranks of established, opinionated political hosts. These next two years will be no picnic for the president. If you look back at Bill Clinton and Richard Nixon – two polarizing figures in American politics – their second terms were far more turbulent generating more contentious media conversation than their first. Even Ronald Reagan had his Iran-Contra issue in his second term. You can probably expect the same with Obama." Harrison expects the next congressional election to start immediately and the next presidential election to begin shortly thereafter. "Biden might be flirting with the idea of running in 2016 but you can count on all eyes and ears being focused on the Clintons and perhaps another Bush." As far as the economic picture is concerned, Harrison is optimistic stating, "I think things are destined to improve regardless of who is president. Let us all do our best to make the radio industry relevant and prosperous in the exciting days and years ahead." Of course there will be a spectrum of contrasting views on this subject. For example, TRN talk show host Jerry Doyle tells TALKERS that he plans to call out a number of his fellow conservative hosts on his show today for "being cheerleaders for the GOP and not questioning some of their positions that are tarnishing the Republican brand." He uses the analogy, "I love Corvettes, but I won't be buying one because of all the as***les driving them today. The same thing with the Republicans – I find it hard to call myself a Republican because of so many of their ridiculous opinions and terrible candidates that fly in the face of today's reality."
Will Obama's Re-Election Cause Programmers to Reflect? Consultant Holland Cooke makes strong statements about what the re-election of Barack Obama should mean to talk radio hosts and programmers. He says, "Heavy early voting and long lines yesterday say 'Hear me!' to talk radio's default I-talk-you-listen model," and Cooke states that voters didn't conform to the prevailing talk radio narrative. Do you agree or disagree that there's a lesson in the election results for talk radio? Before you answer, read Holland Cooke's entire piece here.
Radio One to Flip WMOJ, Cincinnati to Sports in January. Radio One's rhythmic oldies WMOJ, Cincinnati "Mojo 100.3" has gone all Christmas but after the holidays the station will not return to "jammin' oldies" but will be an outlet for CBS Sports Radio Network's new 24/7 sports talk format. Program director Steve Harris tells the Cincinnati Enquirer's John Kiesewetter that the opportunity to do sports on FM was too great to pass up. The station is expected to carry the bulk of the national lineup – John Feinstein, Jim Rome, Doug Gottlieb and Scott Ferrall – but Harris says there has been no decision made about whether to do a local AM drive show or take what CBS Sports Radio Networks has to offer in that daypart. Cincinnati currently has two AM sports talk outlets – WSAI, a Fox Sports Radio Network affiliate, and WCKY, an ESPN Radio affiliate – in addition to news/talk WLW which airs a fair amount of sports programming as well.
New Jersey 101.5 Partners with Governor's Office in Storm Relief. Townsquare Media's WKXW, Trenton "New Jersey 101.5" is announcing its own "Restore New Jersey" and restorenewjersey.com are officially working with Governor Chris Christie's and his wife Mary Pat's "Sandy NJ Relief Fund." The station's group marketing director Ray Handel says the station is immediately beginning to inform listeners about donation efforts. He issues this statement: "New Jersey 101.5 will continue to be involved with restoring New Jersey from the devastation of Hurricane Sandy. We informed millions of Jersey listeners on news and survival information before, during and after the storm. The station served as a lifeline to millions who lost power, and gave those millions a voice. Now as our attention turns to long term recovery, we introduce 'Restore New Jersey,' an on-going fundraising effort that will be featured on New Jersey 101.5 and nj1015.com for at least the next six months. We will be working with Governor and Mary Pat Christie so we can partner with their 'Sandy NJ Relief Fund.' Governor Christie is very much a part of NJ101.5, as he has a monthly show on our station. The governor has received much praise in his leadership during this crisis. This past Saturday the governor introduced this state wide charity, and we feel this will merge perfectly with the state wide help New Jersey 101.5's 'Restore New Jersey' will provide. All funds raised will stay right here in New Jersey, and we think New Jersey 101.5 can really take the lead with this effort."
NAB 'Licensed to Serve' Newsletter Recognizes Broadcasters Covering Sandy. The National Association of Broadcasters released its most recent "Licensed to Serve" newsletter detailing many of the efforts of broadcasters – both radio and television – that provided news and information to the regions affected by Hurricane Sandy. NAB EVP of media relations Dennis Wharton and his staff have put together an excellent summary of the work done by over-the-air broadcasters in serving the needs of their communities. Wharton is passionate about the role of radio and television broadcasters in times of crisis and the NAB's work showcasing it in this regard serves the broadcasting community well. See the NAB's "Licensed to Serve" page here.
Radio Personality Robinson to PM Drive on KCJF, Jonesboro, Arkansas. Tall Cotton Media's new sports talk KCJF, Jonesboro, Arkansas "103.9 The Game" names radio personality Robinson PM drive host. He comes to sports talk radio after a career in rock radio at Entercom's Rochester, New York music outlets classic rock WCMF and rock WBZA. Tall Cotton took over ownership of the outlet in September from Catherine Joanna Flinn. The station is a Fox Sports Radio Network affiliate.
Red Zebra Extends Play-by-Play Deal with Georgetown. The Hoyas will be heard on Red Zebra's Washington, DC sports talk duo WTEM and WSPZ "ESPN 980 and SportsTalk570; Powered by ESPN" for seasons to come as the two partners extend their contract. Under the terms of the deal, Red Zebra will broadcast the school's men's basketball games. Red Zebra president and CEO Rick Carmean says, "We are excited to team with Georgetown University and Coach Thompson's squad as they continue the tradition as one of the best teams the area has to offer." The Hoyas open their season Friday, November 9 aboard the USS Bataan in Jacksonville against the Florida Gators. All Hoya games will be broadcast by Rich Chvotkin who is in his 40th season calling Georgetown games.
Longtime KSL, Salt Lake City Weekend Gardening Show Host Larry Sagers Dead at 63. Horticulture expert and radio talker Larry Sagers, whose weekend gardening program the "Greenhouse Show" co-hosted with Tim Hughes was a mainstay for years on KSL, Salt Lake City has succumbed to his long battle with mesothelioma, a form of cancer often associated with exposure to asbestos. Sagers was a horticulture agent with the Utah State University Extension and an extremely popular local figure.
The 2012 Election and Hurricane Sandy Aftermath Dominate News/Talk Radio Yesterday (11/6). As is usually the case on a presidential election day, the election itself – not only the presidential race but the Senate and House races as well as controversial ballot issues around the nation – dominated the discussion on news/talk radio on Tuesday. Additionally, there was still considerable talk about the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, especially in the Northeast where New Jersey and New York are still recovering from the storm.
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Talk Media Personality Ed Schultz Reveals Wife Wendy is Battling Ovarian Cancer. Syndicated talk radio host and MSNBC personality Ed Schultz has been off of both of his programs for the past week and took the time yesterday to call in to his radio show to speak with guest host Mike Papantonio to announce that his wife Wendy is being treated for ovarian cancer. Schultz told his audience they received the diagnosis last Wednesday and Wendy underwent surgery on Tuesday of this week. "The doctors feel like they got all of it. It was a very successful surgery, but we got a long way to go." Schultz took the opportunity to thank the staffs of both of his programs for their help in covering while he's been away and said he will be missing from both programs for some time, although how long is not known. "Doing a radio and TV show isn't exactly what I'm thinking about right now. I'm going to be with my wife through all of this…We both feel like we've been through the wringer and you lose track of time, you lose track of what you're doing. And everything changes, but we're going to be OK. We're going to get through it." The staff of TALKERS magazine wishes the best to Ed and Wendy at this challenging time in their lives.
Clear Channel Names Clay Hunnicutt EVP of Programming. This is a big move up for the SVP eastern region and VP of country as Clear Channel Media and Entertainment announces Clay Hunnicutt becomes executive vice president of programming for the company. The promotion also puts Hunnicutt in charge of programming in markets including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Washington, Baltimore and San Diego.
Morning Hosts, Former Employer Settle in Potentially Precedent-Setting Case. When Q92 (WDJQ, Canton, Ohio) morning hosts Pat DeLuca and Charlotte DiFranco left the D.A. Peterson, Inc.-owned station after their contracts expired in February of this year and began an internet radio show, Peterson demanded the two cease their project saying it was in violation of their non-compete. The two sued Peterson and in April Stark County Common Pleas Judge Charles E. Brown Jr. ruled the two forms of communicating – webcasting and terrestrial radio – were different enough that the duo were not in violation of their non-compete. Peterson responded by asking they be prohibited from webcasting or streaming within a 60-mile radius of the station (although TALKERS is not sure how that would be accomplished or enforced). Judge Brown denied that request but did rule DeLuca and DiFranco may not use tapes of programs they did while working for Peterson and that they must return the tapes. Also, Brown ruled Peterson owes the two back pay for vacation. As it stands the sides are agreeing to settle the dispute and Peterson says the two will be paid when all the tapes have been returned. Whether this case sets any sort of precedent regarding the difference between terrestrial and internet broadcasting in future disputes is obviously unknown at this point, but is nonetheless an interesting ruling as far as talent and employers are concerned.
Courtside Entertainment's "One Minute Clinic with Dr. Drew Pinsky" Clears Boston. The twice-daily medical advice and "life enhancing insight" feature from Courtside Entertainment gets a major-market clear on Greater Media's WTKK, Boston, adding the city to its other major markets — New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington DC. Courtside Entertainment Group president Bob Moore says the power of Dr. Drew Pinsky's brand is astounding. "There are 15 million Google searches related to health and wellness every day, and 75 million related to celebrities. Calling Dr. Drew! Drew knows what listeners want and we are pleased to partner with the legendary WTKK to ensure they get it."
Red Zebra's WTEM, Washington Brings Fox 5 Washington Sports Director Aboard for Football Show. WTTG-TV, Washington, DC acting sports director Dave Ross will join Red Zebra's ESPN980 — WTEM – for the month of August to fill in for Tony Kornheiser in the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon slot and host the "NFL This Morning" program. WTEM says the show will cover everything Redskins and the entire NFL. "Over the five weeks, Dave will have daily Redskins guests as well as live reports from all 32 NFL cites while going in-depth on every team in the league. The show will originate from Redskins Park, where ESPN980 has an exclusive studio." WTEM president and CEO Rick Carmean states, "Redskins coverage is our wheelhouse and this show will continue our dominance in that area. There is no better way to begin that coverage than with Dave Ross at Redskins training camp."
Delmarva Broadcasting to Debut FM Talk Station on September 4. The station will be positioned as Delaware 105.9 and former WGMD, Rehoboth Beach, Maryland program director and morning host Dan Gaffney – who just last week announced his departure from that station – will be part of the new station's lineup. Delmarva is splitting the FM simulcast of country WKTT, Salisbury, Maryland – currently broadcast on both the 97.5 signal of WKTT and WZKT's 105.9 licensed to Lewes, Delaware to the northeast.
WTKK, Boston Adds Andelmans for Friday Middays. The Andelman brothers – Dave, Dan and Michael – have hosted "The Phantom Gourmet Radio Show" on Saturdays on the station since April of 2007. Dave Andelman is CEO of Phantom Gourmet, Inc. which produces not only the radio show but a TV show of the same name that airs in Boston, Providence and in Maine in addition to some of Beantown's biggest food-centric public events. Now, the three will host a Friday show from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm that will "cover anything that's topical," according to Dave Andelman. Program director Grace Blazer tells TALKERS, "The Phantom Gourmet and the Andelman Brothers are staples on Boston radio, TV, and genius at throwing big events all over New England. Over the past five-plus years, the Andelman brothers have connected on-air, online and in person with 96.9's listeners and advertisers and we're delighted to bring their family to yours on Fridays in addition to Saturdays. Let the fader begin." The three are the sons of well-known Boston sports media personality Eddie Andelman. Doug Meehan continues to host the 10:00 am to 1:00 pm show Monday through Thursday.
Mark Tauscher Joins Journal's Packers Broadcasts. Retired Green Bay Packers lineman Mark Tauscher becomes part of the broadcast team for Journal Broadcast Group's radio and TV coverage of the team's games this season. Tauscher will provide pre- and post-game analysis on the Packers Radio Network and pre-game analysis on the Packers TV Network. Journal director of network operations Carl Moll states, "Mark brings listeners and viewers a fresh perspective on how players think and react to game situations in the NFL. His knowledge adds dimension to the Packers coverage originated by Journal's radio and TV networks."
Midwest Communications Buys Backyard Broadcasting's Sioux Falls Cluster. There's no price on the transaction being disclosed yet but the seven-station cluster that includes news/talk KELO and sports KWSN but the stations will become part of Midwest Communications' portfolio pending FCC approval. The sale leaves Backyard Broadcasting with stations in three markets: Muncie, Indiana; Williamsport, Pennsylvania; and Olean, New York.
Odds 'n' Sods. XtreMedia CEO Kevin McCullough, host of his own nationally syndicated daily talk radio program and co-host of the "Baldwin/McCullough Live" weekend program with Stephen Baldwin, announces his company is producing a new TV program beginning in September called, "Hannah Help Me." The show stars former PBS personality and mother of seven Hannah Keeley who will help mothers who are wrestling with the mess of life to gain insight and strategies in coping with the worries of parenthood…..WFED, Washington AM drive co-host Francis Rose is filling in for Cumulus Media Networks talk host John Batchelor on his Saturday evening WABC, New York-based program this weekend…..Cloud-based advertising software company Abacast announces veteran media executives Ivan Braiker of Hipcricket and John Maffei of Playsino are named to the company's board of directors…..The syndicated weekend automotive show "America on the Road," hosted by Mike Anson and Jack Nerad, ends production this weekend after 23 years. Anson says, "We've been contemplating shutting down for about a year, but wanted to wait until all of our current advertising contracts had concluded."…..NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion Tony Stewart will be guesting on the United Stations Radio Networks-syndicated program, "The Final Lap Weekly" this coming weekend. The program is produced and co-hosted by Kerry Murphey in California…..SiriusXM delves into the vast "Twitter-verse" with its newest program, "Politics Powered by Twitter," heard on the satcaster's POTUS political talk channel. The one-hour daily show airs live at 6:00 pm ET and is described as a "new radio format that reports to listeners exclusively what politics are being talked about on Twitter, including trends and Tweets from politicians, journalists and celebrities who have active voices on the key political issues, electoral races and breaking news."
Overflow Crowds Attend Dallas Premiere of Obama Movie. The Dallas premiere of the Dinesh D'Souza-produced political film "2016: Obama's America" was a huge hit as two theaters in a local multiplex were filled with viewers for the film that goes into national theatrical release the first week of August. Pictured here with D'Souza (c) are Salem Radio Network nationally syndicated talk host Mike Gallagher (r) and Salem Communications talk host Mark Davis (l) who is hosting morning drive on the company's 660 The Answer – KSKY, Dallas.
Presidential Campaign, Aurora Massacre Aftermath, Syria Instability, and Jobs Market Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/25). The ongoing presidential campaign; the aftermath of the Aurora, Colorado movie theater shooting; the violence and political implications associated with Syria's instability and the flat jobs market were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Thursday, July 5, 2012
"Independence Day Wednesday" Provides Talk Radio with Interesting Programming Opportunities. According to a TALKERS magazine survey of talk stations across the country, the rare occurrence of July 4th falling on a Wednesday this year and not lending itself to a convenient four-day weekend, gave talk radio programmers an array of options in filling the schedule. Many gave their star performers the day off and replaced them with their own "best ofs." Others used fill-in hosts – some cleverly taking it upon themselves to create their own Fourth of July "specials." Others just did their shows as per the usual schedule. Almost all report that they spent extra time and attention revisiting the meaning of the holiday and the historic roots of American independence. Independence Day gives radio stations the opportunity to become engaged with local military, public safety, emergency response, community service and charitable organizations in their regions. WHYN, Springfield, Mass. morning co-host Brad Shepard performs his annual ritual of serving as master of ceremonies at the local East Longmeadow Independence Day Parade – a major two-hour regional tradition in Western Massachusetts drawing thousands of people. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison, a resident of the area who attends the event each year, states, "Brad Shepard does a wonderful job announcing the details and color of this superb local parade for a large crowd of people who line the sidewalks and pack the town square in an idyllic New England small-town setting. It is an example of a beloved hometown radio personality engaging in true community involvement and a joy to behold." Harrison (l) is greeted by Shepard (r) at the parade reviewing stand during a break in the action for a quick TALKERS photo.
When Is a Death Threat Free Speech? TALKERS legal editor Steven J.J. Weisman explains some of the legal background in the murky area of free speech and language that can appear to be a threat to someone's health or life. In the wake of the case of Timothy Demeuse – a Milwaukee man charged with a misdemeanor for writing threatening language about WIBA, Madison-based talk host Vicki McKenna – Weisman says what is considered a punishable offense is not always easy to predict. Read his column here.
Red Zebra's Washington Redskins Radio Network Re-Inks Sam Huff and Sonny Jurgensen. National Football League Hall-of-Famers Sam Huff and Sonny Jurgensen have both re-signed with the Washington Redskins Radio Network for the 2012-2013 football season. The two will be in the booth with play-by-play man Larry Michael and WTEM, Washington's Rick "Doc" Walker will serve as sideline reporter. Due to the rigors of travel, the 78-year-old Huff will work 12 of the 20 games – all home games and two road contests. Sonny Jurgensen and Sam Huff have been broadcasting Washington Redskins games together since 1981 – a span of over 600 broadcasts, including 25 playoff games and all three Super Bowl victories.
Odds 'n' Sods. Clear Channel Media and Entertainment promotes programmer Tony Travatto who moves from his post as OM and PD at CHR WNCI, Columbus to Detroit where he'll serve as operations manager for the cluster that includes progressive talk WDTW and sports talk WDFN…..Spanish-language broadcaster Univision unveils the Univision America national talk radio network lineup that debuted on July 4. The lineup – which is expected to be heard on all of the company's AM talk stations – includes a morning drive news block; relationships expert Dra. Isabel; current events talk with Fernando Espuelas; political talk with Helen Aguirre; and a sports talk show featuring Rafael Hernandez Brito…..Carl Amari's "Hollywood 360" weekly nostalgia and trivia show is being syndicated nationally via Syndication Networks Corp. and Salem Radio Networks. The WIND, Chicago-based show is expected to be carried on many Salem Communications-owned stations.
Newspaper Decline Spells Opportunity for Talk Radio Sales. The problems facing daily newspapers are opportunities for local talk radio sales executives writes H & H Communications president Al Herskovitz. In this column, Herskovitz explains talk radio's proven ability to drive traffic to the web combined with the unique personalities on the stations give it a one-two punch of marketing effectiveness. Read Al's column here.
Fourth of July Holiday, SCOTUS ObamaCare Decision Aftermath, 2012 Presidential Race, Mid-Atlantic Storm Damage, and National Malware Threat Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/4). Holiday topics discussed on news/talk radio on July 4th included the holiday itself; the aftermath of the Supreme Court's ruling on President Obama's Affordable Care Act; the 2012 presidential race; the lingering effects of the recent Mid-Atlantic storms; and the threat of a nationwide malware attack on internet users, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Monday, June 4, 2012
Tom Leykis and Lionel to Discuss Their High-Profile Pioneering Digital Efforts at NMS. Two questions (or variations thereof) regularly fielded by the TALKERS editorial staff these days are "How's Tom Leykis doing with his new online talk show?" and "What's Lionel up to these days with his online project?" Both will be answered in detail straight from the horses' mouths at the New Media Seminar's Digital Workshop in New York City this Thursday, June 7. As West Coast-based Leykis approaches the two-month mark into the launch of his "New Normal Network" online project and East Coast-based Lionel chalks up two years of operating "LionelMedia.com," both individualistic graduates of the terrestrial talk show scene continue to gain traction on both the audience and revenue fronts as the industry watches with great interest. Leykis tells TALKERS, "We had over 1.1 million sessions from our debut on April 2nd until April 30th. That number would most closely approximate cume. In our first week of 24/7 streaming, we had exactly 401,180 listeners. That was more listeners than the weekly cumes of 14 L.A./Orange County radio stations in March." On the revenue front, Leykis is also very pleased with immediate results saying, "At the current pace, we will make over 100K in revenue, but we are conservatively estimating 100K for the year." Leykis explains the key to making an online radio operation work is to provide specific listeners something they cannot get anywhere else. He tells TALKERS, "You really have to super-serve your P1s…even in the process of selling advertising. We go out into the marketplace and ask radio-friendly businesses the question, 'Are you being priced out of radio?' Because our operating costs are so much lower than radio we can offer these small businesses very affordable deals. And when you specifically target business owners who are already in your audience as listeners, well it just makes a lot of sense. This is what we are doing and it is working." Lionel describes his digital effort to TALKERS as follows: "This month is the second anniversary of the launch of LionelMedia.com, a paid subscription podcasting outlet. I podcast an hour daily of uninterrupted, unedited, commercial and break-free freeform-yet-structured spoken word. It, frankly, knows no peer. Every day I post news stories, columns, ideas, opinions and the like that supplement the subject or content of that day's podcast. I'll also attach a YouTube video of my latest PIX11 commentary on myriad subjects. To be most precise: I do exactly what I want. Let that sink in. My podcasts are not profane or blue in the least — in fact they could be played in their entirety on terrestrial radio. That, I feel, is a drawing point and basis for much of our success." Although Lionel no longer does a terrestrial radio talk show, he does regularly scheduled commentaries on Tribune television stations including New York's WPIX channel 11 and Merlin Media's all-news FMs in New York, Philadelphia and Chicago in addition to appearing as a regular guest on a number of terrestrial radio talk shows…exposure that helps drive traffic to his online media station. The Digital Workshop will be moderated by Ellen Ratner of Talk Radio News Service and Dan Patterson of KoPoint. The June 7 industry-only New Media Seminar/NYC is an advance sellout. For information call 413-565-5413.
Wisconsin Recall Spurs Question of "Equal Time" on Milwaukee News/Talk Outlets – and Beyond. Progressive political groups are charging Clear Channel's WISN, Milwaukee and Journal Broadcasting's WTMJ, Milwaukee with violating the FCC's "Zapple Doctrine" which mandates "equal time" to all qualified political candidates within 60 days of an election under certain circumstances. TALKERS legal editor Steven J.J. Weisman writes that talk hosts often benefit from exemption from the "Zapple Doctrine" by qualifying as a "news interview program." But that exemption is not always a slam dunk. Read Weisman's column about how the courts tend to interpret this section of FCC regulations here.
WPLJ-FM, New York OM Tony Mascaro to Program WABC? Some posts on the New York Radio Message Board indicate inside sources are reporting Cumulus Media New York is naming CHR WPLJ-FM operations manager Tony Mascaro program director of its news/talk WABC. As of the posting of this item, there is no confirmation or denying of the report from Cumulus. WABC APD Chuck Armstrong has been serving as interim program director for the station filling the role left vacant when Laurie Cantillo exited the post last fall. Stay tuned.
Tony Kornheiser Re-Ups with WTEM, Washington for Two Years. The Red Zebra Broadcasting station announces high-profile personality Tony Kornheiser renews his deal to remain host of the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon program on ESPN 980 WTEM, Washington, DC. As part of the new contract, Kornheiser will contribute to the Washington Redskins Radio Network's "Official Pre-Game Show" during the football season. WTEM CEO Rick Carmean states, "Tony's unique brand of humor and entertainment fits perfectly into our strong and highly rated midday lineup." Kornheiser is joined weekdays by a rotating cast of co-hosts including Gary Braun, Jeanne McManus, Torie Clark, David Aldridge and longtime producer Nigel. Frequent contributors include Tony's "Pardon the Interruption"co-host Michael Wilbon.
WSB-AM/FM, Atlanta Gives Adam Goldfein Nightly Program. Local attorney and auto dealership owner Adam Goldfein has hosted a weekend program about cars on Cox Media's WSB-AM/FM for some time. Now, the station adds more air time to his schedule. The consumer issues expert begins hosting a program airing nightly from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Goldfein had been filling in for Clark Howard on the station and Cox Radio Atlanta VP and market manager Dan Kearney tells the Atlanta Journal Constitution, "He was doing a great job filling in for Clark Howard and his Sunday show was getting great ratings. We wanted him on more consistently."
Stephen King's WZON, Bangor Drops Local Sports Talk; Dismisses Two. Give WZON, Bangor owner Stephen King credit for manning up and personally delivering the news to sports talk hosts Dale Duff and Clem LaBree that they were being dismissed for financial reasons. Duff and LaBree hosted the 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm sports talk show on WZON-AM as well as covering a slew of local sports events, including high school and college games. The Bangor Daily News reports King told the two the change had nothing to do with the quality of their work but because the programming was losing money. WZON-AM had ceased being a full-time sports talk station in November of 2010 and was carrying much of the progressive talk format from sister WZON-FM - The Pulse. Duff had been with the station for 19 years. Both are receiving severance from the company. Duff and LaBree's show will be replaced by a simulcast from WZON-FM although the station will continue to air sports play-by-play.
SRN's Tom Tradup Makes Statement on End of "Richard Land Live" Program. The Ethics and Religious Liberty Committee of the Southern Baptist Convention issued two reprimands to Dr. Richard Land for comments he made about the Trayvon Martin case that it deemed "irresponsible, insensitive and racially charged." It also ended his radio program that it produced that was distributed via Salem Radio Network. The controversy surrounding the statements was enhanced further by allegations Land read them from another published opinion that was not cited. SRN vice president of news/talk programming Tom Tradup tells TALKERS, "Theologians have a different perspective on talk radio than the rest of our industry does. What some see as "hurtful language" on the Trayvon Martin case is, in reality, part of a free and open exchange of ideas and opinions that is the keystone of talk radio. And by talk radio standards, nothing Dr. Land may have failed to "fully attribute" on the air or on his website rose to the level of so-called plagiarism. Nevertheless, we respect the ERLC's decision and thus the final edition of 'Richard Land Live' aired Saturday, June 2.
Twin Cities Radio Personality Dark Star Dies at Age 66. Longtime Minneapolis radio personality Dark Star – real name George Chapple – was found dead in his home in Minnetonka, Minnesota. He co-hosted the "Sports Show" along with Sid Hartman on CBS Radio's WCCO, Minneapolis during part of his 25 years on the air there before accepting a buyout from the station in November of 2010. Recently he had been working at crosstown KFAN. He failed to show up for his Friday show there and authorities found him dead in his apartment.
Compass Media Marketing Named Exclusive Radio Sales Agent for Point-of-Purchase Service. This story is really about the acquisition of InStore Broadcasting Network by POP Radio and the new company becomes InStore Audio Network. It delivers in-store advertising messages to more than 33,000 retail outlets – grocery, drug stores, etc. – and provides music content to some 14,000 stores. The company is enlisting Compass Media Marketing as exclusive national radio sales agent. Compass CEO Peter Kosann says, "I have been a longtime partner with POP Radio and the expanded footprint of the new company creates an exciting and compelling media product that network radio buyers will need to consider."
KSFO, San Francisco Listeners Help Raise $135k for Fisher House Construction. Cumulus Media's news/talk KSFO, San Francisco held a Memorial Day weekend fundraiser for the Fisher House Foundation that began with a live remote broadcast of Brian Sussman's morning drive show. Sussman (r) is pictured here interviewing Fisher House representative Cindy Campbell (l). Fundraising continued over the Memorial Day weekend and more than $135,000 was collected for the construction of the Palo Alto Fisher House which provides no-cost housing and the comforts of home for family members of military personnel while their loved ones rehab and recover from various injuries and ailments. Sussman states, "This gift of over $135,000 illustrates the abundant generosity of our KSFO radio family. The Fisher House provides our troops and their families with genuine American hospitality and it's an honor to be associated with their vital endeavor."
Iowa Farm News Broadcaster Mark Pearson Dead at 54. Mark Pearson worked at Iowa Public Television where he hosted the "Market to Market" show and at Clear Channel's WHO, Des Moines where he co-hosted "The Big Show," a program that highlighted agricultural news. Pearson died of an apparent heart attack at his home on Sunday. WHO talk show host Jan Mickelson told the Des Moines Register, "Everyone at every level in the farm community respected the guy."
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Clark Howard Takes on Expanded Role at HLN. Consumer affairs expert and nationally syndicated talk radio host Clark Howard is going to get more face time at Time Warner's HLN cable channel. Howard, who does a weekend program at HLN and contributes to the channel's "Morning Express" program, will be part of an ensemble weekday afternoon news program titled, "Evening Express" airing from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm ET. Howard will be partnered with TruTV's Ryan Smith, who will handle lead anchor duties, and British journalist Isha Sesay who has worked for CNN International and serves as a correspondent for CNN's "Anderson Cooper 360." In a statement, HLN says the new program is designed to take a "solutions-oriented look at the day's news, accompanied by deeper discussions and reporting on stories and issues that resonate in the American household – including parenting, education, health, personal finance and relationships."
Utah Jazz Owner Confirmed to Buy Salt Lake City Sports Talk Combo. The reported sale of the former Simmons Media sports talk duo KZNS-AM/FM, Salt Lake City to the Larry H. Miller Group is being confirmed by broker Patrick Communications. The price for the two signals is $3.25 million. The deal means Utah Jazz play-by-play will move to the new stations after being heard on Cumulus Media's KFNZ which the Larry H. Miller Group had been operating under an LMA. At the same time, Fox Sports Radio Network announces it will continue to provide programming for the stations under the new ownership with both the AM and FM sides airing "Fox Sports Tonight," JT the Brick and the slate of weekend Fox Sports shows. Premiere Networks' Jim Rome will also be heard on the stations. The FM side of the broadcast will also carry "Fox Sports Daybreak" and the "Petros & Money" show. Larry H. Miller Sports & Entertainment SVP of broadcasting Chris Baum states, "We are very pleased to continue our affiliation with Fox Sports Radio as we move to 1280 The Zone and Fox Sports Radio 97.5. The FSR shows complement our local lineup very well on our new 50,000-watt AM signal, and the additional coverage on our FM signal will allow us to better reach and serve sports fans, and Jazz fans in particular, all along the Wasatch Front."
Kevin Sheehan Extends Deal with Red Zebra's WTEM, Washington. Red Zebra Broadcasting announces midday co-host Kevin Sheehan – who co-hosts "The Sports Fix" with Thom Loverro – has signed a two-year deal to remain with the company. Sheehan also continues with the Washington Redskins Radio Network where he hosts the "Official Redskins Pre-Game Show." Sheehan will also contribute to the Tony Kornheiser program and co-host the "Monday Morning Quarterback" after each Redskins game. Vice president of programming Chuck Sapienza says, "Kevin is as versatile as anyone in the field. He does so much for us. I look forward to working with him through 2014 and many years to come."
Former New York Parks Commissioner Bernadette Castro Co-Hosting with WOR's Governor David Paterson. As per New York Post gossip columnist Cindy Adams, former New York Parks Commissioner Bernadette Castro is sitting alongside former Governor David Paterson as he hosts the PM drive show on WOR, New York as a sort of tryout to see if a duo concept works for the program.
ESPN Hosts Affiliates at "Audio Avenue II" Day in Bristol, Connecticut. The outdoor quad at ESPN's headquarters in Bristol, Connecticut will be busy today as the company hosts talent from its four O&O stations and from 12 affiliate stations for a daylong live broadcast event. ESPN Audio SVP Mo Davenport states, "Audio Avenue brings the concept of 'ESPN Everywhere' to life. Each of these shows and markets represent what our listeners love, the opportunity to hear from experts locally, nationally and globally." Along with the hosts and producers broadcasting from "Audio Avenue," participants will include network and affiliate management, account executives, program directors, clients, ESPN employees and those involved with ESPN Audio's promotions, marketing and sales. The day will also include two "Block Party Breakout" luncheons focusing on the production of "Mike & Mike in the Morning" and listener demographic research.