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Tag: "Our American Stories"
Tuesday, October 15, 2019
PPM Analysis: News/Talk. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio's September 2019 PPM survey, today focusing on the news/talk format. Roughly the same number of news/talk stations were up (36%) – weekly, 6+ AQH share – as were down (38%), comparing August numbers to September numbers (the rest were flat). Gainers were led by Entercom's KMOX, St. Louis (+1.4) and Cox Media Group's WOKV-FM, Jacksonville (+1.4). Comparing September 2018 to September 2019, 48% of the stations on our panel were down, while 39% were up and the remainder were unchanged. Year-over-year gainers were led by iHeartMedia's WJNO, West Palm Beach (+1.9), CMG's WOKV-FM, Jacksonville (+1.8), and iHeartMedia's WREC, Memphis (+1.8). Four news/talk stations ranked #1 in their markets (6+) during the September PPM survey: CMG's WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta; iHeartMedia's WLW, Cincinnati; Townsquare Media's WKXW, Trenton "New Jersey 101.5"; and CMG's WOKV-FM, Jacksonville. See Mike Kinosian's entire report here.
'Our American Stories' Offers Veterans Day Special. For this year's Veterans Day on November 11, American Private Radio – the company that produces the nationally syndicated "Our American Stories with Lee Habeeb" – is making available a special two-hour Veterans Day Radio Tribute for that Monday. APR says, "The program will feature stirring letters and biographical accounts from all the major battles in U.S. history and the lessons they offer as we honor our veterans, past and present." Stations wishing to air this commercial-free, two-hour FTP downloadable program (or satellite delivered via XDS feed) should call "Our American Stories" at 855-276-8020 or visit them on online at OurAmericanNetwork.org.
Entercom Unveils 'Rewind' Technology for Sports, News, and Talk Shows. The ability to pause and rewind live radio shows is becoming available for users of Entercom's RADIO.COM, according to the company. The RADIO.COM REWIND feature automatically records the last 24 hours of broadcast content on enabled stations and makes it easy for the user to navigate to their favorite show and begin listening from any point in the broadcast. Entercom says this feature is debuting on its most popular sports, news, and talk stations with more shows added over time and adds that this new functionality marks the first-ever, all-in-one, on-demand audio experience for broadcast radio content. Entercom chief digital officer J.D. Crowley comments, "As a leader in audio, we are thrilled to introduce innovative technology that will transform the way audiences consume and engage with broadcast radio by reimaging it for a digital environment. RADIO.COM REWIND provides a best-in-class listening experience by delivering the premier news, talk, and sports audio content our audience wants, whenever and however they want it." The feature allows audiences to start their listening experience from any point in any show and select a playback speed up to two times the original speed. Listeners can also quickly and easily return to the live broadcast at any time. In the coming months, audiences will also be able to share moments of live broadcast radio content for distribution on social media and via email.
Premiere Networks to Rep FNTSY Sports Radio Network. The FNTSY Sports Radio Network – a collaboration between owner SportsGrid and the Elvis Duran Group – is announcing a partnership with Premiere Networks for the latter to serve as national ad sales rep. EDG partner/CEO David Katz comments, "This partnership propels us further into the multi-billion-dollar industry of fantasy sports, priming us to take full advantage of the medium's meteoric growth, particularly since the recent legalization of sports wagering. With industry leader Premiere Networks by our side, there's no stopping us." The Elvis Duran Group says that since partnering with FNTSY Sports Network, it has assembled broadcast teams to report live from such events as the National Fantasy Baseball Championships (NFBC) and has launched new programming, including the daily show, "Fantasy Sports Today," hosted by fantasy sports talker Craig Mish and Joe Pisapia, sports analyst and author of the number-one-selling Fantasy Black Book series.
TALKERS News Notes. A new podcast venture is coming from iHeartMedia and actor, comedian, and producer Will Ferrell. The new "Big Money Players Network" – focusing on comedy shows – will roll out in 2020. The network is preparing to launch 10 podcasts – scripted and unscripted – over the next 24 months produced by Ferrell and iHeartMedia that will be available on iHeartRadio and everywhere else podcasts are heard. iHeartPodcast Network president Conal Byrne says, "Will Ferrell is one of the greatest comedians of our lifetime and the unique synergy between Will and iHeartMedia will continue to lead us in accomplishing even more great audio content together. We've worked extremely close with Will over the past year and our listeners love what we've offered them so far. The creative opportunities that an iHeart and Will Ferrell collaboration offer are limitless and we can't wait to introduce fresh, hilarious, new content to listeners."…..Greg Likens leaves his weekend sports talk host position at Entercom's WAXY-AM, Miami "790 The Ticket" for work outside the radio business. During his career in sports media, he served as producer for WQAM, Miami's Joe Rose morning show…..Envision Networks' home improvement show host Eric Goranson of "Around The House With Eric G." is named among the Top 50 Innovators of 2019 in Kitchen and Bath Design. The list was created and voted on by kitchen and bath design industry peers to highlight innovators whose work, creativity, and professionalism are leading the industry. Goranson says, "I am honored that my industry peers and colleagues placed me in the top 50 innovators for 2019."
Impeachment Inquiry, Ukraine Controversy, U.S. Syria Policy, 2020 Presidential Race/Ohio Debate, Catch and Kill Book, and Fort Worth Cop Kills Black Woman Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (10/14). The Democrats' impeachment inquiry against President Trump; the controversy over Rudy Giuliani's and the Bidens' activities in Ukraine; the fate of the Kurds and the Trump Administration's Syria policy; the 12 Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020 and tonight's debate in Ohio; the sexual predation allegations against NBC execs and the rape allegation against Matt Lauer outlined in Ronan Farrow's Catch and Kill book; and a now-fired Forth Worth police officer kills a black woman in her home 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. A change in the programming department at SummitMedia's Springfield, Missouri station group as Bo Jaxon exits after seven months as operations manager and PD/morning drive host for country KTTS. Handling mornings for now is KTTS personality Nancy Simpson…..Pictured below at KKFR, Phoenix's "POWERHOUSE 2019" concert featuring Chris Brown and Ty Dolla $ign are (from l-r): KKFR afternoon drive host Crisco Kidd along with DJ Automatic, Dana Cortez, and Anthony A of the "Dana Cortez Show."
Monday, August 26, 2019
Joe Walsh Says He'll Challenge Trump for GOP Nomination. As teased on Friday (8/23), former Illinois GOP congressman and talk radio host Joe Walsh officially announced on Sunday that he will begin a GOP primary campaign to challenge President Trump for the GOP nomination. Walsh hosts the 9:00 pm to 12:00 midnight program on the Salem Radio Network. It's not clear right now when he'll leave his radio show, but it's a safe bet it will be very soon. As a politically conservative broadcasting company, the SRN and Salem Media Group brass can't be thrilled about Walsh's decision. However, conventional wisdom says Walsh has no chance to take the nomination from Trump since the president enjoys overwhelming support from Republicans. TALKERS founder Michael Harrison, weighing in on the syndicated host's announcement states, "The extraordinary amount of press surrounding this development illustrates just how powerful talk media has become during the age of Trump. We all know that talk radio and cable news/talk TV have been consistently influential platforms in the post-Fairness Doctrine decades. However, the sheer measurable power this bubbling influence has amassed in the age of Trump is jaw dropping to say the least. Regardless of your opinion of Donald Trump, the fact that the president of the United States is a huge talk media fan and constantly demonstrates it through his use of social media, shout-outs, and political appointments has been the most significant booster rocket imaginable in elevating talk media beyond junior status to equal-if-not-greater influence and prestige as the so-called mainstream media. Look at the amount of attention his tweets garnered for Wayne Allyn Root last week. The fact that Joe Walsh – a radio talk show host with a microscopically short resume of elective service – could get so much more coverage than former governors William Weld and Mark Sanford sends an important message. Radio and TV talk personalities are, in a growing number of cases, on the same level as major elected officials. In an industry where anecdotal qualitative influence is every bit as important as murky quantitative metrics, everyone in the talk business owes a debt of gratitude to President Trump. All I can say is, Mr. President, 'Keep listening and watching!'" Editor's Note: An earlier version of this story stated FOX News had ignored the story. Actually, FOX News published this story on Sunday and devoted reports on FOX News Channel to the story.
Neal Boortz Ends WSB-AM, Atlanta Commentary. Six years after retiring from his daily radio talk show, radio legend Neal Boortz does his last commentary feature for his old flagship station WSB-AM/WSBB-FM. In his final piece for the station, Boortz says he looks forward to paying less attention to the news because he believes the country is headed for disaster due to young people knowing more about LGBTQ history than American history. He says, "I'm going to just enjoy my friends, family and my travels while the rest of you see if you can pull this country back from the brink." Hear his commentary here.
LaDona Harvey Re-Ups with KOGO, San Diego. Longtime station personality LaDona Harvey signs a new contract with iHeartMedia's news/talk KOGO, San Diego to continue as morning personality through 2022. Harvey served as news anchor and then midday talk host before being partnered with Ted Garcia in morning drive in 2014. Station program director Brian Long says, "When we re-launched Newsradio 600 KOGO, it was clear that LaDona had the versatility needed to shift from a popular local news/talk host to become a strong morning news personality without missing a beat. LaDona and Ted Garcia together every morning share a chemistry that connects with San Diegans and serves to entertain and inform KOGO listeners every weekday morning."
New Affiliate Stations for 'Our American Stories.' The nationally syndicated "Our American Stories" radio program announces the program is being added to the program schedules at stations including: iHeartMedia's KHOW, Denver; Bustos Media's KVOI, Tucson; American General Media's KVEC, San Luis Obispo; Entercom's KNSS-AM/FM, Wichita; and Kensington Digital Media's WRSW-AM, Warsaw, Indiana. Lee Habeeb is host of the program and CEO of American Private Radio, producer and syndicator of the show. Habeeb comments that he's "grateful for the new markets and the opportunity to bring more listeners together in a positive listening environment. These stations, along with our 210 other affiliate partners are a testament that listeners want more than just political talk. They want a positive experience that radio does really well, which is just what 'Our American Stories' delivers.
Ken Lagana Named EVP of Digital Sales for Entercom. Digital sales executive Ken Lagana is appointed to the newly created position of executive vice president of digital sales for Entercom, effective September 10. Lagana was most recently head of sales and marketing for podcast technology firm Megaphone. In this new role, Lagana will lead sales strategy for the company's digital business, including RADIO.COM, and its newest podcast acquisitions – Cadence13 and Pineapple Street Studios. Entercom chief digital officer J.D. Crowley says, "I have known Ken a long time and have immense respect for the large digital businesses he's helped build. Ken has an incredible reputation in the industry for creating innovative programs at scale that solve challenges for marketers. We're excited to welcome him to the team as we continue to help shape the rapidly growing digital audio marketplace."
Envision and Radio PA State Network Partner for Sports Report. This partnership between Envision Networks and Radio PA State Network will result in EnvisionVirtualServices Sports Reports being distributed to more than 50 radio stations throughout the Keystone State. The feature his presented by sports reporter Andrew Scaglione who delivers twice-daily reports (and one report on Saturday). Scaglione says, "The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has such a rich sports history spanning from the high school level all the way up to the pros. It's a privilege to provide daily sports reports to stations around the state and keep folks up to date on Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, State College, Williamsport, and everywhere in between."
Monday Memo: YouTube Tweaks. YouTube is a powerful platform and it's real crowded. Every second, one hour of video is uploaded. If you just "throw something up there," you're probably not capitalizing on the benefits of YouTube. Consultant Holland Cooke suggests that before your video joins that torrent, take a look at some valuable tips here.
U.S.-China Trade War/G7 Summit, Hong Kong Protests, Joe Walsh to Challenge Trump in Primary/2020 Presidential Race, Israel Strikes Iranian Targets, and Andrew Luck Retires from NFL Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The tariff battle between the U.S. and China, the world's financial markets' reactions to them, and the meetings that took place at the G7 in France over the weekend; the protests against Chinese aggression in Hong Kong; talk host and former congressman Joe Walsh announces his Republican presidential bid and the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020; the Israeli military strikes against Iranian targets near Damascus, Syria; and the shocking retirement from pro football by Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Forever Media to Buy Lebanon, Pennsylvania Duo. The stations – news/talk WLBR-AM and adult contemporary WQIC-FM "Soft Rock 100.1" – are being sold by family-owned Lebanon Broadcasting Company to Forever Media. The deal gives Forever 64 stations in 11 markets. Lebanon president Lynn Deppen says, "WLBR/WQIC has been in the Etter family for over 70 years. Since my sons have independent careers, I made the decision to sell to Forever Media. Forever Media is an excellent company consisting of community-oriented radio stations. They empower local managers with key decision-making authority and encourage local community interests to be a factor in any decision." Greg Guy of Patrick Communications represented the seller in this deal.
Barr Bids Buck Bon Voyage. Pictured above is Premiere Networks personality Buck Sexton (left) with U.S. Attorney General William Barr (right) at Trump International Hotel in Washington, DC. last Thursday night (8/22). Sexton, host of "The Buck Sexton Show," had an impromptu going away celebration at the hotel as he leaves Washington to move to New York City. Barr made an appearance to wish Sexton well as he returns to his home state.
TALKERS News Notes. Sports media personality Josh Innes is launching a podcast. The former KBME, Houston and WIP, Philadelphia sports talk host tells Forbes' Jonathan Berr that he intends to target sports fans in Philly and Houston with separate shows for each market. He says he understands that there are a ton of podcasts out there and that compared to big stations, he's a small business. He says he plans to target local advertisers who can't afford to advertise on major market radio stations…..Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that Vivianne Linou is promoted to executive producer of WGN, Chicago's Steve Cochran morning show. The Tribune Broadcasting station promoted Mary Sandberg Boyle from that position to director of news and operations back in May. Linou joined WGN as a producer back in March after having previously served with Entercom's crosstown all-news WBBM-AM/WFCS-FM…..Alpha Media's Portland sports talk KXTG-AM drops the FM translator simulcast of its programming. The station signaled the end of the broadcast on K275CH with the re-branding of its social media accounts that eliminate the 102.9 FM frequency…..Saga Communications swaps FM translators as a simulcast of news/talk WGAN-AM, Portland. It goes from W288CU, PORTLAND at 105.5 FM to W253DA at 98.5 FM…..ESPN launches a new college football podcast featuring lead analysts Kirk Herbstreit and David Pollack plus SportsCenter's Kevin Negandhi. The "ESPN College Football Podcast- Herbie & Pollack" publish three times per week through the season with Negandhi hosting all episodes. Herbstreit will co-host on Mondays and Pollack will do so on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. West Palm Beach country outlet WIRK names Moriah Daniels midday personality. Daniels began her radio career eight years ago as an intern for the then-CBS Radio station, now owned and operated by Hubbard Radio. WIRK operations manager and brand/content director Bruce Logan states, "As a program director, there is nothing better than inheriting great talent! When I started the search to transition 'New Country 103.1' from a voice-tracked show to a live and local show in West Palm Beach, I was thrilled to find Moriah sitting mere feet from my office dutifully serving our sales team. She expressed interest, I went through the entire search process and in the end, there was no one I'd rather have as WIRK's At-Work host."…..Air personality Pat Gallagher returns to the Madison market to assume the morning show duties on Mid-West Family's alternative WRIS "The Resistance." Company VP of programming Randy Hawke says, "Pat helped define alternative music in Madison. It's so important to have him here and be a part of it." Gallagher worked in alternative radio in Madison for 27 years before joining Mid-West Family Madison for a brief time then heading to WCNR, Charlottesville, Virginia to do mornings…..Radio personality and doo wop enthusiast Ron Farber appeared on WMTR-AM, Morristown, New Jersey over the weekend as guest and co-host on the station's "Doo Wop Drive" program from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm on August 23. It was a homecoming of sorts as Faber hosted the Friday night doo wop show from 2005 through 2008…..Air talent Scotty Kay joins the new morning program at Entercom's country WUSN, Chicago. Kay was most recently on air at Cumulus Media's CHR KLIF-FM, Dallas "HOT 93.3." He joins morning show hosts Katie Bright, Jason Pullman, and Erin Creedon on the program…..In Los Angeles, Doug "Sluggo" Roberts is named assistant program director and music director for classic rock KLOS. Roberts currently hosts weekend programs on SiriusXM's "1St Wave" and "Lithium" channels. He's also worked at alternative KROQ and adult hits KABC-FM in Los Angeles.
Wednesday, June 19, 2019
'Our American Stories' Tops 200-Affiliate Mark. The nationally syndicated program "Our American Stories" announces that Entercom's heritage news/talk outlet WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte is one of a number of new affiliate stations that has added the program to its schedule, helping the program break the 200-affiliate plateau. Additional new stations picking up the show include: 1TV.com's KIKO-AM, Mesa, Arizona "The Bull 1340"; 3 Daughters Media Inc's WMNA-AM/FM, Gretna, Virginia and WGNA-AM, Roanoke; HRN Broadcasting's WZGM-AM, Asheville, North Carolina; and Midwest Communications' KDAL-AM, Duluth, Minnesota. The program is a production of American Private Radio and CEO and program host Lee Habeeb says, "There is no such thing as a 'sure thing' is this business. At a time when talk radio is top-heavy with what divides us as Americans, listeners are responding to our nightly program that celebrates the country so many of us love and care about – and the values that made the country what it is today. I want to say thank you to the station managers at KABC, Los Angeles; WTMJ, Milwaukee; KPRC, Houston; WCCO, Minneapolis/St. Paul; KFAB, Omaha; KMOX, St. Louis; KFXR, Dallas; WHO, Des Moines; KOA, Denver; WBOB, Jacksonville; WHFS, Tampa; KMZQ, Las Vegas; KKFT FM, Reno; KJJC, Salt Lake City; KSCO, Santa Cruz; and now the heritage blowtorch WBT in Charlotte – so many additional station managers who trust our vision of 'Our American Stories.' My team of writers, producers, and sales people are truly humbled."
Joe Pags Show Hits 125-Affiliate Milestone. The WOAI, San Antonio-based "Joe Pags Show" – hosted by Joe "Pags" Pagliarulo – is happy to announce it has surpassed the 125-affiliate mark with the recent addition of the following stations to its roster: WPHT, Philadelphia; KSEV, Houston; WLOB-AM, Portland; WOOD-AM/FM, Grand Rapids; and WIMA-AM, Lima, Ohio. Joe Pags says more stations are preparing to add the show and he hopes to be able to announce more new affiliate stations soon. The program is syndicated by Compass Media Networks and airs live from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm ET.
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 May 2019 PPM survey, today focusing on the all-news format. The big winner comparing the April survey to the May survey is Entercom's KCBS-AM, San Francisco, which rises by three-tenths to a 6.6 share (weekly 6+ AQH). Comparing May of 2018 to May 2019, KCBS-AM is again the top achiever, going up 1.2 shares in the San Francisco market. However, the same station loses 1.2 shares in the adjacent San Jose market, year-over-year. Both KCBS-AM and Hubbard Radio's WTOP-FM, Washington ranked #1 in their markets during the May survey. WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM, Chicago ranked #2. See the entire report here.
RTDNA Names 2019 National Murrow Award Winners. The Radio Television Digital News Association announces the winners of the 2019 National Murrow Awards. More than 4,600 entries were received in 16 categories and 100 local and network radio, television, and digital news organizations are being honored for 122 examples of outstanding journalism. The winners at the national level also include Student Murrow Awards in five categories of audio, video, and digital reporting. RTDNA executive director Dan Shelley says, "The RTDNA National Edward R. Murrow Awards recognize local and national news stories that uphold our Code of Ethics, demonstrate technical expertise and exemplify the importance and impact of journalism as a service to the community. Winning a Murrow Award means that a news organization has provided exemplary public service to its viewers, listeners and readers." Some highlights of this year's awards include: CBS News Radio wins for Overall Excellence, Breaking News Coverage, and for Newscast for "CBS World News Roundup; Hubbard Radio's WTOP-FM, Washington repeats its 2018 win for Overall Excellence in large market radio; ABC News Radio wins the Excellence in Innovation award for its podcast, "Start Here," and for Sports Reporting for "America's Next Pastime"; Entercom all-news station WCBS-AM, New York is honored for Excellence in Video and all-news KCBS-AM, San Francisco wins Best Newscast. See all the winners here.
WABC, New York Adds New Clint Arthur-Hosted Saturday Night Show. The program is called "The Greatest Show of All Time" and features celebrity entrepreneur Clint Arthur. It airs Saturday nights at 7:00 through November 6, 2019. Arthur says, "The mission of this show is personal, professional, and spiritual transformation for entrepreneurs, business owners, CEOs and anyone responsible for improving their own life and who wants to be more, do more and have more. As a native New Yorker, I am thrilled by this opportunity to give back to the city that made me who I am today." Arthur is the author best-selling books: What They Teach You at The Wharton Business School, Speaking Game: 7-Figure Speaker Secrets, and The Greatest Book of All Time. He's a regular guest on television, having appeared on such programs and networks as "The Today Show," "Mornings with Maria," CNN, HLN, BBC, SkyNews, and "Good Day LA."
Two Sales Pros Join Salem Surround. The new digital ad agency Salem Surround adds two media sales pros. Andy Massingill is named regional digital sales director for the West Region and Jon Latzer holds the same title for the East Region. The new agency from Salem Media Group "offers a comprehensive suite of digital marketing services to develop and execute audience-based marketing strategies for clients on both local and national levels." Massengill most recently served with Adams Publishing Group in Minnesota. Latzer was most recently with Alpha Media as the regional interactive sales director. Salem SVP of broadcast digital Jamie Cohen says, "These two new hires are the next step in Salem's strategy to provide 360-degree marketing support to our clients and partners. Jon and Andy bring a unique mix of both radio and vast digital experience to the table which I'm confident will provide our teams and our clients with the ability to see the value in all forms of audience we can deliver."
TALKERS News Notes. WNRI, Woonsocket, Rhode Island talk show host John DePetro is pictured here outside the Amway Arena in Orlando prior to last night's Trump 2020 campaign kick-off. DePetro says that with the help of Qgolive, his program will be mobile this summer. He broadcast yesterday's program from Orlando…..Former WEEI, Boston morning co-host and current Barstool Sports personality Kirk Minihane is holding a press conference today (6/19) to address the lawsuit being filed against him and Barstool Sports by Somerville, Massachusetts Mayor Joseph Curtatone. The mayor was recently interviewed by Kirk Minihane who pretended to be Boston Globe writer Kevin Cullen. A couple of weeks after finding out he'd been duped, Curtatone filed a suit alleging Minihane violated Massachusetts General Laws by using "fraudulent means" to get his permission to be recorded. Barstool CEO David Portnoy posted a statement saying he doesn't know if Minihane broke the law or not but hopes the case goes to trial to provide "the best content of all time." Portnoy implies his father, attorney Michael Portnoy, would represent Barstool.
Trump's Orlando Re-Election Rally, 2020 Presidential Race, Trump's Illegal Immigrants Deportation Promise, Iran Tensions, Slavery Reparations Hearing, and Dominican Republic Deaths/Illnesses Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (6/18). Last night's Orlando rally to kick off President Trump's re-election campaign; the Democrats competing for the nomination in the 2020 presidential race; Trump's statement that ICE will be deporting millions of illegal aliens next week; the tensions over Iran's enrichment program and the U.S.'s threat of military action; today's hearing on slavery reparations before a House Judiciary subcommittee; and the spate of deaths and illnesses among travelers to the Dominican Republic 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 Anchorage, Alaska market Last Frontier Mediactive flips rock KZND to alternative as "94.7 Alternative Anchorage." Kellen Pierce is the program director and says, "I'm thrilled to be programming Anchorage's exclusive home for alternative music! Alaskan fans of modern and present alternative will now be able find their favorite new artists alongside some of the best alternative from the 90s to now!"…..iHeartMedia appoints Don Pollnow market president for the company's four-station Wichita cluster that includes country KZSN-FM "102.1 The Bull," CHR KZCH-FM "Channel 96.3," adult contemporary KRBB-FM, "B98," and alternative KTHR-FM "ALT 107.3." Pollnow was most recently vice president and market manager for Cumulus Media's Green Bay station group…..Westwood One announces that the syndicated "Adam Bomb Show" adds three new affiliate stations to its roster. Now airing the program are KYIS-FM, Oklahoma City; KWPW-FM, Robinson, Texas; and WMXV-FM, Florence-Muscle Shoals, Alabama.
Monday, May 6, 2019
Cumulus Media Names Brian Philips EVP of Content and Audience; Mike McVay to Return to Consulting. Effective today, radio and television executive Brian Philips is being appointed executive vice president, content and audience for Cumulus Media, taking over for Michael McVay, who is returning to full-time consulting, with Cumulus as his first client. Philips previously served as president of Viacom/MTV Network's CMT channel. The press release notes that there, Philips led "the music network's successful forays into long-form script series, tentpole awards shows, concert specials, and feature films. He also developed CMT's successful national radio network." Prior to working in TV and film, Philips worked in radio programming with such stations as Cumulus' WNNX-FM and WWWQ-FM in Atlanta, and KPLX-FM, Dallas. Cumulus Media CEO Mary Berner says, "We are excited that Brian is joining our leadership team. A highly accomplished executive, leader, and innovator with substantial experience across today's media landscape, he comes to us with an impressive and successful track record of growing ratings and expanding audiences. We look forward to benefiting from the skills and expertise he brings to his new role. I would also like to thank Mike for his significant contributions to Cumulus and for being such a great partner to me." McVay underscores that the decision to leave Cumulus and return to consulting was entirely his. In praising McVay, Berner adds, "Mike's accomplishments since his appointment as EVP, content and programming in 2015 are too numerous to count. To name just a few, under Mike's leadership of the office of programming, we reversed four years of ratings share declines, and saw years of ratings share growth. We are currently posting the best ratings since 2011 on some of our biggest and most important stations. Mike has helped to expand Westwood One's programming, participating in the launch of several new shows, including the very successful 'The Ben Shapiro Show.' Mike has also led us in increasing our reach beyond over the air listening to include smart speakers and all online listening."
Monday Memo: Show Me Your Show. On smart talk stations, weekends are appointment listening and might be the two most profitable days of the week, "NOT incompatible goals" according to consultant Holland Cooke. "Yet," he notes, "programming Saturdays and Sundays can be high-maintenance for stations, and getting airtime is challenging for talent." In this week's Monday Memo, HC recommends a win-win road map to weekend airtime. Read it here.
Simonson Named Director of Sales at Hubbard Radio West Palm Beach. Radio sales pro Gregory Simonson is appointed director of sales for Hubbard Radio's recently acquired West Palm Beach station group that includes news/talk WFTL, Fort Lauderdale and sports talk WMEN, Royal Palm Beach "640 The Hurricane," and four music-formatted stations. Simonson was most recently general sales manager with Beasley Media Group's Fayetteville, North Carolina cluster. Hubbard Radio SVP and market manager Elizabeth Hamma states, "I'm very happy to welcome Gregory to the Hubbard Radio West Palm Beach family. His extensive track record of success in traditional and digital media as well as his passion for helping sales people succeed make Gregory a perfect choice to lead our sales team to new heights." Last fall, Hubbard agreed to acquire the cluster from Alpha Media for $88 million.
'Our American Stories' Passes 180-Affiliate Mark. The nationally syndicated "Our American Stories" program from American Private Radio announces the addition of eight new affiliate stations to the program's roster, putting over the 180-station mark. APR president and show host Lee Habeeb says, "Stations told us they wanted a radio program that wasn't always about politics, to give listeners a break from the news cycle. More importantly, they love the topics we share every night, and we take great pride in putting stories together that touch our listeners' hearts and minds. People walk away feeling better when they listen to 'Our American Stories.'" New stations include Entercom's news/talk WCCO-AM, Minneapolis-St. Paul.
TALKERS News Notes. A new podcast is being launched starring iHeartMedia chairman and CEO Bob Pittman, titled, "Math & Magic: Stories From the Frontiers of Marketing," on the iHeartPodcast Network beginning on May 14. The program will feature interviews with "visionary executives from the media and entertainment industries." In the first two episodes. Pittman talks with Maurice Levy, who, during his tenure as CEO of Publicis Groupe, increased the value of the company by 100 times and expanded a French agency into a true global advertising and communications leader; and Scooter Braun, renowned talent entrepreneur, investor and entertainment executive who boosted the careers of international superstars such as Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, and many others…..Boston Herald-based nationally syndicated columnist and Boston Herald Radio show host Adriana Cohen recently hosted President Trump on her weekly program. Cohen tells TALKERS that the almost-20-minute interview went viral after being picked up by Politico, Boston Globe, Newsweek, Fox News, The Blaze, The Hill, and others…..Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that staffers at Entercom's all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM are getting some backing from fellow union members as they negotiate with the company for raises for the newsroom's eight assistant producers. The Writers Guild of America will rally outside the WBBM studios in the Prudential Building today (5/6)…..Washington University in St. Louis is awarding seven people with honorary degrees at a ceremony during the school's 2019 commencement on May 17 and one of those is SiriusXM Urban View talk host Joe Madison. The commencement address will be delivered by Michael Bloomberg. Madison graduated from Washington University with a bachelor's degree in 1971…..WTMJ, Milwaukee cleaned up at the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Awards Gala in Madison over the weekend. The Good Karma Brands news/talk station won first place in 21 categories, including: News/Talk Large Market Station of the Year, Radio News Operation of the Year (Large Market); Social and Digital Operation of the Year (Large market); Best Newscast: Wisconsin's Afternoon News; and more. Pictured below with the station's awards are WTMJ staffers (from l-r): Nick Van Wagenen, Erik Bilstad, Jordan Gasiorowski, Steve Wexler, Steve Scaffidi, Jane Matenaer, Jay Sorgi, Brad Lane, Doug Russell, Melissa Barclay, and Mike Spaulding.
Mueller Report/Trump on Mueller Testimony, 2020 Presidential Politics, China Trade War Escalation, U.S.-Iran Tensions, North Korea Missile Test, Israel-Gaza Violence, 'Game of Thrones,' Avengers: Endgame, Kentucky Derby Disqualification, and NBA Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The aftermath of the release of the Mueller Report and President Trump's tweets saying Robert Mueller should not testify before congress; the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020; markets react as Trump threatens to ramp up U.S.-China trade war; U.S. carrier group heads to Iran in response to reports of Iranian threats to U.S. interests in the region; reaction to North Korea's latest missile test; the rocket attacks on Israel from Gaza; Sunday's episode of "Game of Thrones"; the Avengers: Endgame movie sets new record; the Kentucky Derby winner is disqualified; and the NBA playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
George Beasley Inducted into PA Radio Hall of Fame. Pictured above is Beasley Broadcast Group founder and chairman George Beasley at center with his wife Ann and surrounded by their family at the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters' 2019 Gold Medal Awards Dinner yesterday (5/5) in Hershey where he was inducted into the PAB's Hall of Fame. Beasley was inducted with fellow honorees: comic and actor/director Bob Saget, Pittsburgh Steelers great and Pro Football Hall of Famer Jerome Bettis, and C-SPAN correspondent Steve Scully.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Los Angeles alternative rocker KROQ announces the debut of the afternoon drive "Stryker and Klein" program featuring Ted Stryker (left) and Kevin Klein (right). Entercom Los Angeles SVP and market manager Jeff Federman says, "Pairing Stryker and Klein is something we could never have imagined just a few years ago. Individually, they've both had tremendous success throughout their careers. Adding great content to our afternoon programming is something that we're very committed to and these guys do a fantastic job connecting the music to fun and interesting conversations." Stryker has been with the station since 1999. Klein hosted mornings on the company's KITS-FM, San Francisco "Live 105." He was slated to be the morning host at sports talk KWFN, San Diego but the infamous Coronado Bridge social media post bit derailed his gig on that station…..The search is on for the new morning show at Entercom's country WUSN, Chicago "US99" after Doug Stylz and Justin Roman exited the station on Friday (5/3). The duo previously hosted the morning show at sister CHR WBBM-FM, "B96" before taking on the morning show role at "US99."…..Premiere Networks-syndicated evening personality Delilah recently hosted the "Our Town, Our Heroes Celebration," a local event recognizing listeners for their outstanding work in the Wilmington, Delaware area, produced by Beasley-owned affiliate WJBR, Wilmington "Mix 99.5." In addition to helping honor local citizen's Delilah was surprised by WJBR as the station honored her for her philanthropic efforts with her non-profit foundation, Point Hope, that serves as a voice for forgotten children in the U.S. foster care system and in West Africa.
Tuesday, April 30, 2019
Entercom Net Revenue Up 3% in First Quarter of 2019. Net revenue for Entercom Communications Corp. was $309 million in the first quarter of 2019 – an increase of 3% over the $300.6 million figure for the same period in 2018. Operating income soared to $30.4 million, up from $5.7 million in the first quarter of 2018. At the same time, total operating expenses decreased 5.6% from last year to $278.6 million. Entercom president and CEO David Field says, "I am pleased to report that Entercom delivered another strong quarter of performance as revenues increased 3% and Adjusted EBITDA surged 42%. Our transformational investments in new products and capabilities and the hard work of our team are beginning to pay off as we capitalize on our scale and the abundant growth opportunities in audio. Second quarter revenues are pacing up by more than 4% and we are excited about our progress across multiple areas of the business and by the dynamic future ahead." Today's report also states that "later today, the company expects to issue $325 million in 6.50% senior secured second-lien notes due 2027. The company plans to use the proceeds of the issuance, as well as cash on its balance sheet and borrowings under its revolver, to repay $425 million of its senior secured Term Loan and to pay fees and expenses related to the issuance." At the end of the first quarter, Entercom had outstanding $1.29 billion of senior debt under its credit facilities and $400 million in senior notes. The company reports having $68 million in cash on hand.
Nielsen Reports Q1 Financials; Audience Measurement Revenue Up 1.5%. As the company's board of directors continues to consider selling all or part of Nielsen Holdings plc, the company reveals its revenue for the first quarter of 2019 was down 2.9% (on revenue of $1.56 billion), however was up 0.4% on a constant currency basis, compared to the first quarter of 2018. The company recently renamed its Watch and Buy segments. They are now Nielsen Global Media and Nielsen Global Connect, respectively. During Q1, revenue in the Nielsen Global Media segment increased 0.2% to $826 million, or 1.3% on a constant currency basis, compared to the first quarter of 2018. Revenue in Audience Measurement increased 1.5%, or 2.2% on a constant currency basis, primarily due to continued client adoption of Nielsen's Total Audience Measurement system, partly offset by pressure in local television measurement. Nielsen CEO David Kenny states, "Our first quarter results were ahead of our expectations, reflecting solid execution and continued focus on improving operational and financial rigor across Nielsen. While I'm pleased with our first quarter results, we have a significant opportunity to accelerate our growth rate over time as we leverage and build on our incomparable data assets, our global footprint, and the critical role we play in the media and FMGC (fast moving goods company) industries. We have begun our transformation into a truly product-driven, technology organization, able to make faster, bolder decisions that drive greater value for our clients and for Nielsen."
Report: Erick Erickson Planning New Late Morning Show on Athens News/Talker. According to a report in the Atlanta Journal Constitution by Rodney Ho, WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta personality Erick Erickson noted on his Facebook page that he's planning a new talk show for the 9:00 am to 12:00 noon daypart that would focus on Georgia news and politics. Ho reports that WSB program director Pete Spriggs says the show is in the planning stages right now and the company's news/talk WGAU-AM/W254CJ, Athens would be the show's flagship. Erickson would continue to host his afternoon show at WSB. Erickson says he believes that local news outlets are failing to give enough attention to Georgia news and the drive time shows focus too much on the national political scene.
Lars Larson Receives Honor from Right to Work Organization. KXL-FM, Portland-based talk radio host Lars Larson – also heard nationally via Compass Media Networks – is being given the "Lewis and Annabelle Fetterman Right to Work Communication Award" from The National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation. The annual honor goes to an individual for their work in highlighting the injustices of compulsory unionism. Larson says, "When my flagship station, FM News 101 KXL hired me, I got my first taste of forced unionism. I arrived at my shiny new $9/hr job as afternoon anchor and editor in March of 1980. A big talk guy, whose name I have forgotten, walked up to me and introduced himself as the shop steward and told me in no uncertain terms, 'You will join the union.' I told him I had no interest in unions and no intention of joining. He told me, 'You'll join or our contract says you'll be fired in 30 days.' Needless to say, I joined, paid the union and endured its extortion. Years later at KXL, I happily joined an effort to decertify the union (it took two years but it succeeded). I believe that every American worker should have the right to join a union or to decline union membership. 27 states now recognize this 'right to work' philosophy. Nearly all of the Democratic Party candidates for president of the United States have vowed to kill section 14b of the Fair Labor Relations Act that allows for the 'right to work.' I have now worked 44 years in radio and television and have spent most of those years NOT IN A UNION by choice. Every American should have that choice."
WGN-AM and Crain's Chicago Strengthen Relationship. This enhancement of the content integration between Tribune's WGN Radio and Crain's Chicago Business will bring Crain's reporters to the air on WGN live from their Chicago newsroom, beginning Monday (5/6). Each weekday, "The WGN Radio Crain's Chicago Business Desk" will feature Crain's reporters twice daily on WGN during newscasts at 7:00 am and 5:00 pm, in addition to listeners hearing the top business news of the day at 12:50 pm during the "Wintrust Business Lunch" program. Crain's publisher and executive editor Jim Kirk says, "We're very happy to expand our relationship with WGN. The station's unique relationship with its listeners is a natural for Crain's as we continue to look for ways to grow our journalism beyond our traditional platforms."
Entercom and Waze Enter into Multiplatform Partnership. This deal between Entercom and traffic app Waze will – among other things – allow users of both Waze and Entercom's RADIO.COM app to benefit from each other's content. As part of the deal, RADIO.COM will be integrated into the Waze app, so that Waze drivers can get audio content – including local news and sports, local broadcast traffic reports, and the music stations – with ease. They'll have access to the RADIO.COM playback and discovery controls, including favorite, local, and recently played stations, directly in the Waze app. The partnership also allows Entercom to integrate the Waze community-based traffic data into its live and over-the-air traffic reporting across its radio stations. Entercom stations will utilize the Waze data to provide enhanced, real-time and hyperlocal traffic reporting to listeners on all platforms.
Progressive Insurance Named 'Radio Marketer of the Year.' The insurance company is being honored with the "Radio Marketer of the Year" award at the 2019 Radio Mercury Awards at SONY HALL in New York City on June 6. The award is being given to Progressive Insurance "in recognition of the company's long-term partnership with the radio industry to reach and engage consumers. Their powerful radio creative differentiates the brand in a crowded category and significantly contributes to record sales for Progressive." RAB president and CEO and chair of the Radio Creative Fund Erica Farber says, "Progressive Insurance and its creative advertising partner Arnold Worldwide continue to be tremendous partners to the radio industry. Broadcast radio is delighted with the ongoing collaboration with CMO Jeff Charney and his team, and we look forward to their continued innovation in the audio space." Charney comments, "Understanding the 'art and science' of the medium is key to putting out breakthrough radio campaigns. It allows us to produce compelling and disruptive content that pushes toward the creative edge in all the right ways. We sweat every second of each spot, and this recognition proves our company's out-create approach drives powerful results."
Sue McNamara Named EVP of Sales for PodcastOne. Sales pro Sue McNamara is appointed to the position EVP of sales for the Eastern U.S. for PodcastOne. She comes to PodcastOne with a resume that includes roles SVP of advertising sales at CBS Corporation, EVP of sales at Interep, and VP of sales at Total Traffic Network. PodcastOne executive chairman and founder Norm Pattiz says, "When looking for someone to fill this position, we spoke to a number of our advertisers, and the one name that kept coming up was Sue McNamara. After our first meeting at our Los Angeles headquarters, I understood exactly why. She knows audio. She not only understands advertisers' goals and needs, she's been instrumental in creating new, creative opportunities for them. She's a perfect fit for podcasting and that makes her the perfect choice for PodcastOne."
TALKERS News Notes. The online-only broadcasts from the sports talk hosts of "The Mighty 1090" have ended. As reported by KGTV-TV, San Diego, the sports talk format that was bumped off Mexican signal XEPRS on April 11 is no longer an online venture either. Broadcast Company of the America's pulled the plug on the digital feed at around 2:00 pm yesterday (4/29), ending almost three weeks of online only content. The staff were asked to come to the studios and retrieve their belongings. KGTV-TV notes that BCA previously lost two other of its Mexican signals – XHPRS, formerly a classic hits station, and XEPE, also a sports talk station – after negotiations with the Mexican owners broke down…..WMFS-FM, Memphis "ESPN 92.9" sports talk personality Eric Hasseltine is exiting the Entercom station after almost eight years hosting the 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm program. Hasseltine is also the radio play-by-play voice for the NBA's Memphis Grizzlies, a position he will continue to hold. WMFS program director Brad Carson says Jeffrey Wright, producer for the station's Geoff Calkins show, will host the 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm daypart for now. Hasseltine says the decision to leave the station was entirely his and adds that it was not an easy decision to make…..Urban news/talk WURD, Philadelphia is bringing air personality Solomon Jones back to the station to host the morning drive "Wake Up with WURD" program, effective Monday (5/6). Jones tells the Philadelphia Tribune, "I'm pleased to be able to come back. I missed the audience at WURD and I'm anxious to be able to get started again and to just impact our community. Doing what I do at WURD is familiar and I think it is ministry. I want to make sure that our community is informed and engaged. There are some things that we need to really be talking about and take action on."…..Cox Media Group's news/talk KRMG-AM/FM, Tulsa hosted nationally syndicated digital expert Kim Komando at a luncheon today (4/30). KRMG invited 225 listeners to the Women in Business Luncheon presented by Community Care College. KRMG program director Levi May states, "Kim Komando is a real power player in both the media and technology fields and it's an honor that she chose Tulsa to visit in 2019. We are thrilled to have an opportunity to put her in front of our listeners in an intimate setting where she can talk about her successes and share her tips with other women." In addition to Komando's appearance, KRMG news director April Hill moderated a panel discussion of Tulsa businesswomen.
77WABC's Sid Rosenberg Speaks at NYTimes Protest. Pictured above is WABC, New York personality Sid Rosenberg (holding mic) at a protest outside the offices of The New York Times. The co-host of the "Bernie & Sid in the Morning" program addressed the crowd gathered to protest the publication of a cartoon depicting President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that's being called anti-Semitic.
2020 Presidential Politics, Trump Sues Banks, Dems Impeachment Talk, NYTimes Cartoon Criticism, Venezuela Political Unrest, Southern Border Crisis, Game of Thrones, Avengers: Endgame Movie, NBA Playoffs, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/29). Democrat Joe Biden's rise in the polls and the politics surrounding the 2020 presidential campaign; President Trump sues to prevent Deutsch Bank and Capital One from releasing personal and Trump business financial information; the talk of presidential impeachment among congressional Democrats; the criticism of the New York Times cartoon depicting Trump and Netanyahu as being anti-Semitic; Juan Guaido's attempt to lead a military uprising against the Maduro government in Venezuela; the migrant status at the U.S.-Mexico border; Sunday's "Game of Thrones" episode in the HBO series' final season; the Avengers: Endgame movie; the NBA playoffs: and MLB action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Denver country outlet KYGO has a new program director as Bonneville names Brian Michel to the position. Michel was most recently with iHeartMedia as SVP of programming for the Atlanta station group…..iHeartMedia announces that Taylor Swift is joining the lineup of KISS-FM, Los Angeles' Wango Tango concert being held on Satuday, June 1 at The Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California…..SiriusXM is getting ready to present Florida Georgia Line performing in a special invitation-only event at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. The private show will be the first time the GRAMMY-winning duo has performed at the legendary venue and will air on SiriusXM on May 29…..LBI Media names Wynette Gallegos Ortiz director of sales for the Houston market. Ortiz will lead LBI Media's sales and operations activities for all of its radio properties and EstrellaTV's sports and event activations in Houston. Ortiz has been with LBI Media since 2001, starting as an account executive and quickly moving up the ranks and into management as local sales manager and eventually as general sales manager.
Monday, March 11, 2019
Monday Memo: Infinite Dial 2019. Consultant Holland Cooke writes in this week's Monday Memo that if you missed the Edison Research/Triton Digital "Infinite Dial 2019" webinar last week, it's well worth an hour to watch the video and flip through the slides. If you're thinking "an HOUR?" you may FIND an hour after reading his short version in this week's column that you can read here.
FNC's Tucker Carlson Unapologetic for Bubba the Love Sponge Appearances. Conservative media figure and FOX News Channel talk show host Tucker Carlson is not apologizing for comments made during his appearances on the Bubba the Love Sponge radio show between 2006 and 2011. Variety reports that liberal media watchdog organization Media Matters for America dug up some recordings of Carlson – a regular guest on the show during that period – that include him making a "pejorative statement about Arianna Huffington, Britney Spears and Alexis Stewart, Martha Stewart's daughter," as well as downplaying the actions of "Warren Jeffs, the religious leader who had been placed on the FBI's most-wanted fugitive list on charges he had arranged marriages between his adult male followers and underage girls." Last night, Carlson issued the following statement, "Media Matters caught me saying something naughty on a radio show more than a decade ago. Rather than express the usual ritual contrition, how about this: I'm on television every weeknight live for an hour. If you want to know what I think, you can watch. Anyone who disagrees with my views is welcome to come on and explain why."
'Our American Stories' Adds New Affiliates in Denver and Omaha. The nationally syndicated "Our American Stories" program from Lee Habeeb's American Private Radio adds iHeartMedia's KOA, Denver and KFAB, Omaha to its roster of affiliates. The two-hour, daily magazine-style radio drama is also now being heard on Ashley Communications' KVEL AM, Vernal, Utah; Alpha Media's WSGW-AM/FM, Saginaw, Michigan; and Tri-County Broadcastings' WLVA FM, Lynchburg, Virginia. Habeeb says he is humbled by the continued success of his non-political program that focuses on "what brings America together," and adds "these partnerships confirm Americans do love well-produced radio programs that entertain and inform."
John Batchelor Show Broadcasts from Azerbaijan This Week. The WABC, New York-based and Westwood One nationally syndicated John Batchelor show will broadcast live from the Republic of Azerbaijan this week (3/11-15) in conjunction with the Embassy of Azerbaijan and sponsored by multimedia software firm Scala Inc. Batchelor is joined by colleagues Christopher Nixon Cox and Monica Crowley "traveling the old Silk Road of Marco Polo to the new Silk Road of energy, on the shore of the vast Caspian Sea Basin in the South Caucasus." Batchelor says, "From Baku, the sparkling growing capital of Azerbaijan, I will head north to the Russian border at Dagestan. This is the mountain pass route of the ancient Silk Road. There is much to learn about how the region will prosper as the Silk Road is reawakened with highways, railroad beds and communication networks that link the savvy manufacturers of East Asia to the rich consumer markets of Asia Minor, Russia, and the European Union. Returning to Baku, I will venture to the critical oil and gas hub at Sangechal, from where energy resources are sent through Georgia to Turkey and the Mediterranean Basin — and soon via the Southern Gas Corridor to Europe. Importantly, I will be able to interview many private and public voices about the economic development of Azerbaijan and also the region."
iHeartRadio's 'Bear and a Banjo' Podcast Produced by Legendary Talent. A new, musical podcast will launch later this year on iHeartMedia's iHeartRadio platform called "Bear and a Banjo." iHM calls it a first-of-its-kind. It's created by Jingle Jared, Dennis Quaid, and five-time Grammy winner Jason "Poo Bear" Boyd ("Despacito," "Where Are You Now," "I'm the One" and "Peaches and Cream") with musical contributions from producer T Bone Burnett ("O Brother, Where Art Thou?" and "Crazy Heart") and original lyrical contribution from Bob Dylan. Each episode of the eight-part series will tell a self-contained story about a character called Mister Bear. Bear is a traveling musician who visits different towns across America and impacts people's lives before vanishing again. He is often preceded into town by J. Banjo, a charming huckster/card player/preacher/medicine salesman who acts as Bear's promoter and hype man. Quaid says, "This is the beginning of an entirely new era of podcasts. With 'Bear and a Banjo,' we are delving into a more sophisticated form of storytelling that brings the audience into a lush and rich world – not just through words, but music."
Josh Rahmani Named SVP National and Network Sales for Radio One and Reach Media. Sales pro Josh Rahmani is promoted from his vice president, national sales for Radio One post to SVP, national and network sales for Radio One and Reach Media. Company CEO David Kantor says, "Josh has led our national radio team for several years. He was instrumental in developing and implementing our corporate sales and partnership effort. Based on this success it made great sense to put our network team under his direction. All our national sales efforts are now under his direction. Josh's commitment and passion for what we do at Radio One has been exhibited over the years, consistently delivering leadership throughout the company and maintaining great relationships with our partners in advertising and sponsorship." Rahmani has served with Radio One since 2005.
TALKERS News Notes. According to a report from Chicago media maven Robert Feder, WLS-AM, Chicago news reporter Jennifer Keiper resigns from the station where she's been afternoon news anchor. The station expects to announce the new afternoon anchor soon. Meanwhile, Feder reports Keiper commenting, "WLS-AM has treated me well over the last four and a half years, but I felt I had done all I could do there and that it was time for a change. I have left on very friendly terms and look forward to my next challenge."…..The independently syndicated "Free Talk Live" show featuring Ian Freeman and Mark Edge adds new affiliate stations. Freeman notes that in some instances his libertarian-minded show has taken over the dayparts formerly held by progressive talker Norman Goldman, who recently wrapped production of his program. New affiliates for "Free Talk Live" include KBBR-AM, North Bend, Oregon. The program has also moved to air live on KABQ-AM, Albuquerque from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm…..CRN Digital Talk Radio adds "Feed Your Face with Merrill Shindler" to its network roster, effective today (3/11). CRN president and CEO Michael Horn says, "Merrill Shindler is the best culinary and travel expert in the country. Merrill has been a guest on many of our programs and we are delighted to produce his show for national consumption."
CORRECTION: Ronn Owens Report Continues on KGO. The March 7 report in TALKERS about the new program schedule at Cumulus Media's KGO, San Francisco stated the longtime KGO personality Ronn Owens was gone from the program schedule. That is incorrect and the 10-minute "Ronn Owens Report" continues to be heard three times daily as part of the revised programming schedule on KGO. TALKERS regrets the error.
TalkersRadio in the Community. Los Angeles media figure, community organizer and TalkersRadio personality Meg McDonald (r) – who was recently elected president of the Studio City Beautification Association – is pictured with California State Assembly member Adrin Nazarian (D) at the Studio City Residents Association appreciation dinner at Carla's Café on the CBS Studio Center lot in Studio City on Saturday evening (3/9). The appreciation dinner is an annual event to say thank you to SCRA volunteers, vendors, local businesses and officials who help enhance the quality of life in Studio City. Nazarian represents the 46th Assembly District which encompasses the central-southern San Fernando Valley. To listen to McDonald's short-form feature "MEG!" please click here. MEG! is now available for terrestrial radio clearances. Interested stations can call Barbara Kurland at 413-565-5413.
U.S.-Mexico Border Wall, Trump-Russia Investigation, Democrats' Omar Problem, 2020 Democratic Hopefuls/Socialism Debate, Ballooning U.S. Budget Deficit, Venezuela Blackout, Jaguar Attacks Selfie-Taker, Ethiopian Airlines Crash, and NBA/NCAA Hoops Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The state of illegal immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border and President Trump's budget request for $8.6 billion for a border wall; the status of the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents; the anti-Semitism accusations leveled against Rep. Ilhan Omar; the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020 and the internal battle between younger, more socialist-leaning Democrats and the older ones; the report of the U.S. budget deficit rising 77% in the past year; Caracas, Venezuela deals with blackouts amidst Nicolas Maduro's claim the U.S. sabotaged the substation; a zoo-goer in Phoenix is attacked by a jaguar after she jumped the boundary to take a selfie; the deadly Ethiopian Airlines crash and the mass grounding of new Boeing 737 Max 8 airplanes; and NBA and NCAA basketball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Tampa market on-air pro Nick Van Cleve is retiring from Cox Media Group's classic hits WXGL "107.3 The Eagle" at the end of this month. In addition to his 15-year gig with WXGL, he's also served with WXTB-FM, WYNF-FM and WFUS-FM in the Tampa market. He tells the Tampa Bay Time retirement is "a logical stepping off point for me and my wife. We want to spend time in North Carolina and do some traveling. I did some backpacking in Europe and got the travel bug. And I've grown weary of getting up at 4:30 am."…..Alpha Media adds programming responsibilities for rhythmic CHR KTFM, San Antonio "Energy 94.1" to national director/digital content Ernie Martinez's role with the company. Alpha VP of content Phil Becker states, "Working alongside Ernie in our corporate roles, I have witnessed time and time again his prowess as a programmer. His desire to infuse both his digital expertise and proven track record as a programmer is exactly what KTFM needs."…..Afternoon personality Rick Daniels is leaving Cumulus Media's country KIZN, Boise after almost three years for a new, yet-to-be-announced position in a market closer to his children…..Emmis Communications flips triple A KGSR-FM, Austin to adult contemporary "Star 93.3." The signal had been a simulcast of the "Austin City Limits Radio" format that continues to air on the KGSR-HD2 and K246BD signals…..This morning, country artist Maren Morris dropped by the studios of the nationally syndicated Ty Bentli Show in Nashville to talk about the release of her highly anticipated sophomore album, GIRL. Pictured below are (from l-r): TJ, Morris, and Bentli.
Our American Stories: A Fresh New Dimension for the Conservative News/Talk Radio Menu
By Michael Harrison
TALKERS magazine
JUPITER, Fla — Longtime radio innovator, Salem Radio Network VP/content Lee Habeeb longed to create something new and different for radio listeners – a show that would tell stories about American life. They would be stories about our nation's past and present including sports, the arts, business, innovation, science and everything in-between. It would be a show that would tell the story of America to Americans.
"This is a great country precisely because it is a good country," Habeeb tells TALKERS. "The American people are longing for programming that's positive, beautiful and good to lift their spirits, and tell the story of the country we all love – because the schools and colleges sure as heck aren't doing it. And radio will attract a whole bunch of new listeners if we do it right."
Tuesday, January 8, 2019
iHeartMedia Reorganization Plan Awaits Confirmation. The Modified Fifth Amended Joint Chapter 11 Plan of Reorganization for iHeartMedia is awaiting confirmation by United States Bankruptcy Court Judge Marvin Isgur. Yesterday's filing of the confirmed plan will allow iHeartMedia to erase $10.3 billion in debt off its books, leaving it with $5.75 billion in debt once Judge Isgur has signed the order. Last month, the court approved iHeartMedia's separation from Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings as part of the reorganization plan. Yesterday's filing will permit iHeartMedia to begin to implement the plan without seeking authorization from the court. As is usual in bankruptcy cases, once the plan is confirmed by the court, most other claims against the debtor are discharged. In this case, the judge rules that certain liabilities the company is required to honor after the effective date – called a Cure Claim – and that includes the BMI license agreements, an almost $600,000 payment to SoundExchange LLC, and its Framework Digital Distribution Agreement with Sony Music Entertainment. Additionally, the new iHeartMedia must honor all SAG-AFTRA contracts and must assume all contractual agreements with the Denver Broncos. Once signed, iHeartMedia will be in a period between Confirmation and the Effective Date. There are several hearing dates scheduled and they are: January 10 to consider all confirmation issues other than those scheduled to be heard on January 17, and January 22; January 17 to consider all issues concerning the CCOH separation settlement, other than those issues scheduled to be heard on January 22, and any issues continued from the January 10, hearing; January 22 to consider all remaining issues concerning consideration of the class action settlement related to the CCOH Separation Settlement and the GAMCO Motion; and January 23 to consider all remaining confirmation issues.
'Our American Stories' Surpasses 160-Affiliate Mark. The nationally syndicated "Our American Stories" program adds a number of new affiliate stations and now has 163 total affiliates. The program is hosted by Lee Habeeb who is also president of program producer American Private Radio. He says, "Stations told us they wanted a radio program that wasn't always about politics, to give listeners a break from the news cycle. More importantly they love the topics we share every night and we take great pride in putting stories together that touch our listeners' hearts and minds. People walk away feeling better when they listen to 'Our American Stories.'" The program is described as "a two-hour, daily radio magazine program that showcases Americans from various industries, including sports heroes, musicians, film performers, political or cultural icons, business leaders, military heroes and more." TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison is extremely fond of this program stating, "I fully expect 'Our American Stories' to be the surprise breakout program of 2019. It is the classiest, best-researched, meticulously produced, dependable piece of quality content to come down the pike in years. It is conservative news/talk's knock out answer to public radio and will become an institutional part of the genre for years to come."
Wayne Allyn Root: I 'Got the Ball Rolling' on Trump's Wall Option. Las Vegas-based, nationally syndicated talk show host Wayne Allyn Root says he first talked about the idea that President Trump can declare a national security emergency and use $25 billion from the Pentagon budget to build a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border. Root points to his November 17 column in the Las Vegas Review-Journal that details, among other things, that the president can declare a "national security emergency" and use military money for the project. Root says, "I shared this column and my idea with my audience on both my Newsmax TV show and USA Radio show in the days before publication. Then I flew to Wyoming as keynote speaker for the Wyoming GOP annual dinner on Friday 11/16/18. I shared my idea with that audience. Result. Two standing ovations. That column was handed directly to President Trump by my great friend Lee Lipton at Mar a Lago on 11/18/18. President Trump has talked about this exact option all week in the media. It's the hottest topic in the country. My idea started this all… I'm sure it will come up in Tuesday night's national presidential address."
Mike Gallagher Films LifeLock Ad on NYC Streets. Nationally syndicated talk radio star Mike Gallagher is pictured above on the streets of New York filming commercials for identity theft prevention firm LifeLock. Gallagher has been voicing spots for LifeLock – as have many talk radio hosts since LifeLock is a big advertiser on talk radio – but not long ago he needed the company's services. The Salem Radio Network talk host was the victim of a personal security breach when someone accessed his personal information, changed his cellphone number, and tried withdrawing $25,000 from Gallagher's checking account. He credits LifeLock with alerting him to the compromises and acting to protect his personal assets. He says, "I've proudly done their commercials for years. But after seeing for myself how they swing into action, I believe anyone is stupid not to have LifeLock protection."
Eric Zane Launches Daily Podcast. After being let go by Cumulus Media last week due to the format flip of WBBL, Grand Rapids from sports talk to country music, morning personality Eric Zane tells Mlive.com he's doing a daily podcast designed to pick up where his radio show left off. He's offering the show to listeners for free and for a fee with various options, including video. Zane tells MLive he hopes to reach a sizable audience via his 18,000 Twitter followers. He says, "Most people get some content via podcast or streaming content and they're a different audience. They're zeroed in because of the programming. They seek it out as opposed to background noise. I won't ever say radio has no place because it's still great to get in your car and push a button and there it is. This medium (podcasts), which was laughed at five, 10 years ago, isn't laughed at anymore because it's very viable."
Steve Triplett to Lead Beasley's Tampa Stations. Sales and management pro Steve Triplett is named vice president and market manager for Beasley Media Group's Tampa cluster that includes financial talk outlet WHFS-AM and six music radio stations. Triplett has been serving as interim market manager and director of sales for the Tampa operations. He says, "Over the past four years, Beasley Media Group has created something truly special in Tampa. We have a team of the finest media professionals in the industry and it's an honor to continuing serving them in this new capacity."
PodcastOne Partners with LadyGang for Podcast Network. "The LadyGang" podcast recently celebrated its 200th episode and 40 millionth download. Now, PodcastOne is entering into a deal with the brand for a podcast development, production, and marketing deal to launch The LadyGang Network on PodcastOne. The network will feature a female-driven, all-star lineup of pop culture, reality television, and motherhood trend-setters. PodcastOne says the deal combines its vast resources and reach with The LadyGang's brand power and curated talent lineup. The inaugural program under this new network will be "Mama Said with Jamie and Jenna," hosted by Jamie Lynn Sigler and Jenna Parris. Additional programs will be announced soon.
Hogenson Communications to Rep Americans for Tax Reform Campaign. Talk media is the target for Americans for Tax Reform and it has hired Hogenson Communications to represent the organization to talk media for its 12-month campaign. Scott Hogenson states, "We're proud to have been selected by Americans for Tax Reform as their talk media partner. As America's preeminent tax policy organization, ATR brings a lot to talk media audiences by breaking down complicated policy issues in a way that everyone can understand."
KNUS, Denver Hosts Boyles and Tubbs to Broadcast from Vancouver, BC During Fact-Finding Mission. Talk show hosts Peter Boyles and Steffan Tubbs – air personalities on Salem Media Group's news/talk KNUS, Denver – will broadcast live from Vancouver, British Columbia during their fact-finding mission to the city's safe injection sites. The Denver City Council passed an ordinance that will create safe or supervised injection sites for users to inject heroin, opioids and cocaine in locations that will employ trained medical personnel. The KNUS remote broadcasts will take place on Friday (1/11).
iHeartMedia Unveils New iHeartRadio Features at CES. The company announces a number of new consumer technology integrations for its digital platform, iHeartRadio. At the 2019 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, iHeartMedia unveiled new integrations including the Honda Dream Drive Platform, the new Bixby from Samsung, Roku devices, and Google's Android TV and Android Auto. It also launched the fully redesigned iHeartRadio Family app on Amazon Fire Tablet with iOS and Android coming soon.
Border Wall-Government Shutdown, U.S.-Syria Policy, Tlaib Israel Statement, Kim Jong Un-Xi Jinping Meeting, NCAA Football Championship, and NFL Playoffs Action Among Top News-Talk Stories Yesterday (1/7). The battle over funding for the U.S.-Mexico border wall and the related government shutdown; the Trump administration's military policy in Syria; the controversy over freshman congresswoman Rashida Tlaib's comments that GOP senators are more loyal to Israel than the U.S.; North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un's visit with Chinese President Xi Jinping; Monday night's NCAA football championship game; and the NFL playoffs 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. The nationally syndicated Ty Bentli show is off Cumulus Media's New York City country outlet WNSH "NASH FM 94.7." What was originally called "America's Morning Show" back when Blair Garner was lead host and has twice morphed since then has been the only morning show on the stations since its inception. Now, afternoon drive host Jesse Addy is sitting in hosting mornings as the station teases a new program…..In Los Angeles, "volunteer" air personality Greg Beharrell is named evening host on Cumulus Media's classic rock 95.5 KLOS…..Afternoon drive host, APD and music director Mark Razz is promoted to program director for Beasley Media Group's country WXTU, Philadelphia. With this new role, Razz will move from afternoon drive to middays. Beasley Philly market manager Joe Bell comments, "Nobody deserves this opportunity more than Razz. He has been an integral part of 92.5 XTU's success for years and has demonstrated the leadership, commitment and creativity that you look for in a PD. Plus, he's an amazing talent, is loved by listeners and respected within the industry."…..Midday personality Corey O'Brien is named assistant program director and music director at Broadway Media's alternative KXRK, Salt Lake City "X96."…..Buffalo market radio pro Joe Chille is named morning drive host at Townsquare Media's adult contemporary WMSX, Buffalo "96.1 The Breeze." Chille was a longtime personality at WJYE prior to its becoming WMSX. Most recently, he'd been handling part-time duties at Radio One Buffalo's oldies WECK-AM…..Beasley Media Group names Sean Varicalli host of the "KICKS Wake up Crew" morning show on country WKXC-FM, Augusta, Georgia. Varicalli was most recently midday jock and APD at Curtis Media Group's country WQDR, Raleigh…..Alpha Media's WKXI, Jackson, Mississippi "107.5 Kixie" replaces the Tom Joyner show with the Premiere Networks-syndicated "Steve Harvey Morning Show."
Monday, July 30, 2018
Larry Wilson Steps Down from Alpha Media Chairman Role. The Citadel Broadcasting chief launched Alpha Broadcasting in 2009 with stations in Portland, Oregon. The company would merge with L&L Broadcasting and Main Line Broadcasting in 2014 and become Alpha Media. Now, Larry Wilson will step away from his role as chairman of the board of directors of Alpha Media but will remain a member of the board. A press release from the company says that under Wilson's guidance, "Alpha Media has become the largest privately-owned radio broadcast company in the United States, operating 225 radio stations in 48 markets across the nation. Wilson is also known for his work within the country music industry, having served on the board of directors for the Country Music Association from 1991 to 2001 and inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2014." Alpha Media president and CEO Bob Proffitt comments, "Wilson is a respected colleague and pioneer in the broadcast industry. His vision helped craft today's broadcast and radio landscape." Alpha Media will elect a new chairman at its next scheduled board meeting.
Brett Winterble Re-Ups with KFMB-AM, San Diego. San Diego talk show host Brett Winterble signs a new contract with Tegna-owned news/talk KFMB-AM, San Diego to continue hosting the 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm show. Winterble originally joined KFMB-AM in 2012 as part of the Roger Hedgecock show and began hosting afternoons in 2015. In addition to his radio show and podcast productions, he recently began hosting a two-hour show for Newsmax TV. KFMB-AM program director Dave Sniff states, "We are excited to continue our relationship with Brett! His ability to digest the daily news cycle and make it relevant for the San Diego community is unmatched and truly impressive. Brett will play a key role in creating unique content, not only for KFMB-AM, but also for our various digital platforms."
David Haugh Assumes AM Co-Host Role on WSCR, Chicago Today. After 26 years with WSCR, Chicago "The Score," Brian Hanley did his last regular morning show with Mike Mulligan on Friday (7/27) and Chicago Tribune sports columnist David Haugh debuts on the new "Mully and Haugh" show today. Haugh says in a statement, "I'm excited to join The Score's morning show. Brian Hanley is a good friend and class act who set a high standard for me to meet. Mike Mulligan has gone from fierce competitor to trusted confidante over the years, a relationship I've always valued. I will continue to have the privilege of writing columns for the Chicago Tribune, where I have spent the last 15 years trying to serve the best interests of Chicago sports fans. The job only gets better now. Thank you to The Score for the opportunity, to the Tribune for the support and to everyone who will listen to "Mully and Haugh" do our best to entertain you every morning." Read Chicago media maven Robert Feder's story on the changes here.
United States Traffic Network Sues Entercom for $5 Million. Alleging that Entercom entered into negotiations with United States Traffic Network to buy the company and walked away from the deal at the last minute with the intent of developing a directly competitive business based on information gathered during the discovery process, USTN is suing Entercom for material and punitive damages "in excess of $5 million." The complaint, filed the District Court in Harris County, Texas, states, "During the transaction of the sale of equity in USTN, in April and the failed transaction, Defendants (Entercom) made false representations of fact, false promises or benefitted by not disclosing that a third party's representations or promises were false. The false representations or promises, set forth above, were made for the purpose of inducing Plaintiffs to enter into a contract regarding the equity of USTN. Plaintiffs relied on the false representations or promises. The reliance on the false representations, promises, and failures to disclose caused Plaintiffs injury and benefited Defendants." The suit further alleges that Entercom intentionally induced USTN to miss a scheduled debt payment to Entercom under the pretenses that this payment would be unnecessary due to the planned closing of the purchase transaction. USTN is owned by Fair and Equal LLC. For its part, Entercom issues a press release saying it has ended its reseller agreement with USTN and calls the suit "entirely baseless, frivolous and frankly insulting. Entercom has worked tirelessly and constructively with USTN over the past six months to help USTN work through its significant financial issues. Entercom is owed substantial amounts of money by USTN, and the company intends to defend itself vigorously and assert all of its rights." Entercom says it "has successfully sold traffic and other short duration advertising on its own for many years. In April, Entercom took back a portion of its broadcast inventory from USTN and is achieving great success selling that inventory through its own sales channels. The Company expects to build on that success as it begins to monetize the remaining inventory taken back from USTN." CEO David Field says, "We are relieved to no longer be mired by the difficult USTN situation that was inherited as part of the CBS Radio merger. We will move quickly to augment our strong internal sales organization to ensure that we realize the full value of this inventory."
A Visit to WRKO's New Digs. TALKERS founder Michael Harrison paid a visit to legendary outlet WRKO, Boston on Friday (7/27) to check out its new location and pristine, one-week-old studios at the iHeartMedia broadcasting complex in Medford, Massachusetts (a bustling area on Boston's north side). Until recently, WRKO was an Entercom property, but it was sold to iHeart after Entercom's merger with CBS Radio, significantly re-shuffling the playing deck in Boston. While there, Harrison sat in from 6:00 am to 10:00 am for the morning show's regular co-host, Doug "VB" Goudie – something he occasionally does on the station. Harrison (left) is pictured with the WRKO morning show's co-anchor Kim Carrigan (center) and the program's on-air producer Jim Clerkin (right). Carrigan will be the guest on the next installment of the award-winning podcast "The Michael Harrison Interview" set to be posted tomorrow (7/31).
Final Radio Talent Institute of the Summer Taking Place at Northwest Missouri State. This week begins that final 10-day Radio Talent Institute of the summer. Students from 11 different universities are converging on the campus of Northwest Missouri State University to take part in the Missouri Broadcasters Association Radio Talent Institute. MBA president Mark Gordon says, "This was made possible by the financial commitments from Northwest Missouri State University, the Missouri Broadcasters board of directors and broadcast companies that include: Hubbard Radio St. Louis; Eagle Communications St. Joseph; Zimmer Radio and Marketing Group of Mid Missouri Columbia, Jefferson City; iHeartMedia St. Louis, Springfield, Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport; Cumulus Media Kansas City, Columbia, Jefferson City; Alpha Media of Missouri: Union Broadcasting Kansas City; and Mid-West Family Broadcasting Springfield. We are pleased to bring this program taught by industry professionals to Missouri that will help fill job openings at broadcast stations with quality employees who have a true understanding of how fun and rewarding a career in our industry can be." Founder and president of the National Radio Talent System, Dan Vallie, comments, "To have so many students from so many different universities is a tribute to Mark and the MBA and their efforts as we work together to discover and prepare young talent for the industry. These are the talent we will be hiring now and will be the leaders in our industry tomorrow."
RI Talk Host John DePetro and Sean Spicer at Book Signing. Former White House press secretary Sean Spicer (left) returned to his home state of Rhode Island to promote his new book The Briefing (2018, Regnery Publishing). He's pictured here with WNRI, Woonsocket, Rhode Island talk show host John DePetro (right), who hosted him on his radio show and attended several of the book signings with him. DePetro also emceed a private VIP event in Spicer's hometown of Barrington, Rhode Island.
New Affiliates for 'Our American Stories.' Now airing in the evenings on iHeartMedia-owned news/talk WHO, Des Moines is Lee Habeeb's "Our American Stories." Additional new affiliate stations include: iHeartMedia's KPRC, Houston and Inspiration Time's WXTE, Erie. Program host Lee Habeeb is a vice president of content at Salem Media Group and a contributing editor of the weekly essay series "Across America" for Newsweek Magazine and Newsweek.com. "Our American Stories" airs on 139 radio stations across the U.S.
Trump-Russia Investigation/Trump's Mueller Tweets, Trump-Sulzberger Fake News Meeting, Government Shutdown Threat, Trump Trade Wars, Facebook Value Plummets, California Wildfires, Les Moonves Allegations, New Mission: Impossible Film, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The Robert Mueller-led investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russian agents, tied with President Trump's weekend tweets about the matter; Trump's meeting with New York Times publisher A.G. Sulzberger over the president's fake news charges; Trump threatens to let federal government shut down unless border wall is funded; the effects of Trump's trade wars on U.S. businesses; the plunging value of Facebook; the deadly California wildfires; allegations of sexual harassment against CBS chairman Les Moonves; the new Tom Cruise Mission: Impossible film; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
NuVoodoo Study Reveals Listener Misconceptions. Calling the results "startling new insights for radio stations," NuVoodoo Media Services says its 12th and latest NuVoodoo Ratings Prospects Study of more than 3,000 radio listeners between the ages of 14 and 54 across all PPM-rated markets will reveal the findings in a series of free webinars for radio professionals, beginning Wednesday (8/1). Register at http://www.nuvoodoo.com/webinars. The study was fielded this June and indicates that about half of all radio listeners under age 35 believe radio's tight playlists are a cost-saving measure to avoid paying licensing fees. Among those respondents who are likely to accept a diary or meter, the perception jumps to more than 2/3 among 14-24-year-olds. The study also shows that nearly 60% of all respondents and close to 70% of likely diary and PPM participants conclude that radio stations play the music that record companies pay them to play. NuVoodoo says the webinar series is part of its ongoing effort to inform the industry of emerging trends and to help uncover opportunities for stations to improve programming and marketing efforts. The primary focus is on those who have accepted or are more likely to accept a ratings diary or become part of the PPM panel, since this small segment of radio listeners holds the key to any station's financial success.
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. Nationally syndicated country morning personality Bobby Bones and iHeartMedia announce a renewed and expanded relationship in which Bones takes on the title vice president, creative director of iHeartCountry. In addition to continuing to host his daily morning show and the weekly "Country Top 30," Bones will executive produce a new, one-hour weekend program, "Women of iHeartCountry," co-hosted by Amy Brown from the Bobby Bones show. The program will feature music from established female artists and up-and-comers, with weekly guest appearances by other iHeartMedia female on air personalities. Bones says, "This is the opportunity I've been chasing my entire career. Thanks to Bob Pittman, Rich Bressler, and Kevin Legrett for their years of support and for the space to build this partnership."…..LARadio.com reports that CHR legend Rick Dees is joining KQLH-LPFM, Yucaipa, California to host the afternoon drive show. KQLH-LPFM serves parts of the Inland Empire and Palm Springs. It is a non-profit station but accepts sponsorships as tax deductible donations…..Entercom names Toshamakia Acevedo music director and afternoon drive personality for hip hop KQKS, Denver "KS 107.5." Acevedo transfers from the company's hip hop WJMH, Greensboro, North Carolina "102 Jamz." Entercom Denver SVP and market manager John Fullam comments, "We are excited to welcome Toshamakia to the Denver team. We believe her on-air energy and passion for being involved in the community will resonate a great deal with Denver music fans." Acevedo succeeds former APD, music director, and afternoon drive host Michael Buhrman, who recently transitioned to Entercom's KSFM, Sacramento as program director and afternoon drive host…..Cumulus Media appoints Megan Stone co-host of WEBE, Westport, Connecticut (Fairfield and New Haven markets) "WEBE Wake Up Morning Show with Jay Michaels." Operations manager Danny Lyons states, "It is exciting to welcome Megan to the Cumulus family. I know her enthusiasm for radio, as well as for her listeners, will shine through every morning on WEBE 108."…..At CHR WYRG, Indianapolis "ENERGY 93.9," Robert "Sid" Sidloski takes over the program director role on August 6. Cumulus Media Indianapolis operations manager Boomer says, "In seeking the next leader for WYRG I had the opportunity to speak with several skilled programmers from around the country, most with career credentials that would certainly be suitable for the role of PD. However, I kept coming back to Sid's positive attitude and seemingly relentless drive and determination to succeed in this situation along with his vision for the brand to pursue and achieve aggressive success right away. Sid has an understanding of our obstacles and has shared impressive plans to seize upon our opportunities here in Indianapolis. I'm absolutely looking forward to seeing his leadership in action as PD of ENERGY 93.9."…..The nationally syndicated "The Bert Show" – led by Bert Weiss – enters into an agreement to be produced and distributed by Westwood One. Cumulus Media EVP, marketing and Westwood One president Suzanne Grimes states, "We're excited to welcome 'The Bert Show' to Westwood One. His ever-evolving show has been on a steady rise for more than a decade. Bert's professionalism and level of entertainment, combined with the strength of our network, should take him to new heights." The program was previously syndicated by YEA Networks…..In Detroit, Mildred Gaddis – host of the "Mildred Gaddis Show" on Radio One's "Detroit Praise Network" is named community affairs director for Radio One's Detroit cluster. The new "Praise Network" replaces gospel WPZR-FM that was recently acquired by EMF. As part of that transaction, Radio One acquires translators W228CJ at 93.5 and W252BX at 98.3 from EMF and plans to marry them with W260CB at 99.9 to build the new "Detroit Praise Network."…..Premiere Networks syndicated adult contemporary star Delilah is publishing her latest book, One Heart At a Time (2018, RosettaBooks). In the book, Delilah uses "stories from her extraordinary off-air life – full of trials, forgiveness, faith, and adventure (along with select well-executed pranks)" in calling on us to "connect, one heart at a time, to lift others, and in the process, our communities and ourselves." Rosetta CEO Arthur Klebanoff states, "In her easygoing style and characteristic, beloved voice, Delilah shares the real woman behind the microphone. She tells her deeply moving story as the series of miracles and prayers it is."
Friday, July 6, 2018
Report: PE Firm Silver Lake Partners Interested in iHeartMedia. According to a report in the New York Post, private equity firm Silver Lake Partners is interested in buying iHeartMedia when it emerges from Chapter 11 reorganization. iHeartMedia is expected to exit Chapter 11 in October with a reduced debt load of $10 billion – down from the current $20 billion. The report says Silver Lake is in talks about the purchase with iHM's creditors, who will own the company upon bankruptcy protection exit. The report adds that leading creditors believe iHeartMedia is worth between $12 billion and $15 billion.
Remembering Ed Schultz. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the talk media career rise of Ed Schultz, who passed away on July 5 at the age of 64. The former college football quarterback spent 15 years doing sports media – mostly on television at WDAY-TV, Fargo – before launching a talk radio career. As most regular TALKERS readers are aware, Schultz was a conservative talker in the beginning, but his politics – and his radio program – morphed in large part due to an encounter with the woman who would become his wife, Wendy Schultz. Read the full piece about Schultz's life and radio career here.
Dave Bourne Named Operations Manager at KYKN, Salem, Oregon. News/talk KYKN, Salem, Oregon announces Dave Bourne joins the station to serve as operations manager. Prior to joining KYKN, Bourne led the programming at KUIK, Portland. KYKN general manager Mike Frith says Bourne brings his extensive experience developing a "large local footprint." Frith adds, "Without LOCAL we are just another station. We've had a good presence locally and we are going to have a GREAT local presence. We will begin to broadcast high school football and basketball this fall in the Salem metro with a population of 404,000. We are now going to have 150 "live remotes" at local sponsors and events over the next 12 months. We're pleased that Dave will lead us in this major effort."
TALKERS Continues Posting Videos Today of the Recent TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! Convention – Today's Post: Panel Discussion About Generating Talk Radio Revenue in 2018. Today (7/6), TALKERS magazine continues posting individual events from the recent TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! convention held in New York City on June 8. Each business day, another session will be posted in the order that they originally took place. Today's ninth installment features the panel discussion titled "Generating Talk Radio Revenue in 2018." It is moderated by TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey; introduced by Crossover Media Group managing member Ron Hartenbaum; and featuring panelists Asa RX host Asa; Bold Gold Media Group CEO, Vince Benedetto; Howie Carr Radio Network president Kathy Carr; Westwood One president Suzanne Grimes; WBAL, Baltimore president/GM Cary Pahigian; and KSCO/KOMY, Santa Cruz owner Michael Zwerling. Videos already posted include the special presentation by Amplifi Media CEO, Steven Goldstein titled "Radio Broadcasters and Smart Speakers with an introduction by GCN personality Dr. Daliah Wachs ; a special presentation by PodcastOne chairman and CEO, Norm Pattiz titled "Radio Broadcasters and Podcasting" with an introduction by Voice of America and National Public Radio anchor/reporter, Lori Lundin; a special presentation by WFAN personality Mike Francesa titled "Sports Talk's Role in Media and Popular Culture" with an introduction by author and former radio producer Bernadette Duncan; Salem SVP Phil Boyce's address titled "What Has Donald Trump Done to Talk Radio?"; the fireside chat between TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison and Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley including Harrison's presentation of the 2018 "Woman of the Year" award to Beasley; Harrison's fireside chat with FOX News Radio/FOX News Channel mega-star Brian Kilmeade with an introduction by Westwood One syndicated host Walter Sterling and special remarks by Sean Hannity; opening remarks by the convention's co-emcees, TalkersRadio GM, David Bernstein and Good Day Networks/DJV Show CEO/host, Doug Stephan; KGO, San Francisco host, Ethan Bearman delivering the event's welcoming remarks and Pioneer Valley Radio GM/host, Brad Shepard introduction of Bearman. Also posted: the presentation of the Gene Burns Memorial Award for Freedom of Speech ("Freedom of Speech Award") by TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian to SiriusXM Satellite Radio host, book publisher, Hunter College professor, and former New York Daily News/Pulitzer prize-winning journalist, Karen Hunter. To view the page, please click here.
SB Nation Promotes Larson to COO; Announces Lineup Tweaks. Sports radio network SB Nation Radio promotes network program director Craig Larson to chief operating officer. Larson says, "It's just a joy to wake up and come to work every day. As I enter my 20th year with the network, I am proud of my team and optimistic about our future." Also, SB Nation announces that the morning show "SB Nation AM" will feature Tony Desiere and Ronn Culver as co-hosts. Desiere has been with the network for six years. Culver joined back in 2014 and currently serves as executive producer. Finally, the network adds "The Gold Standard" with host Alex Gold to the lineup, airing from 10:00 pm to 1:00 am.
Radio Talent Agent Heather Cohen Is This Week's Guest on Harrison Podcast. One of the radio industry's leading talent agents, Heather Cohen, EVP of the Weiss Agency is this week's guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series "The Michael Harrison Interview." Cohen, who is also the co-chair of the Gracie Awards, discusses the state of the radio business as it applies to talent including a look at the status of women in the industry with a fascinating historical retrospective. Harrison and Cohen also discuss the methods available to young people breaking into the radio and television industries going forward. 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 on every page of Talkers.com.
TALKERS News Notes. The company that syndicated the daily, two-hour magazine-style program "Our American Stories" announces the feed time for the program is moving from 9:00 pm ET to 6:00 am ET, effective August 1. American Private Radio CEO and program host Lee Habeeb says the change reflects the desire by many programmers to get a same-day feed for earlier placement in the day. "More than half of our affiliates now carry 'Our American Stories' outside of evenings, so it made sense to provide an early morning feed to accommodate stations who wish to run the timely program earlier on the day." Our American Stories is heard in more than 130 markets…..Benztown is announcing the launch of a new, 30-second daily featuring starring radio and television sportscaster Vic "The Brick" Jacobs titled, "This Day in Sports History." The show is available to stations through Benztown's Adrenaline Sports Imaging Library.
Illegal Immigration/Abolish ICE Movement Top News/Talk Stories for Week of July 2-6. Debate about the U.S.'s illegal immigration policies and the related movement to abolish the Immigration and Customs Enforcement bureau were the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the open Supreme Court seat and President Trump's likely three top candidates. Coming in at #3 was the impending meeting between President Trump and Vladimir Putin, tied with the related Trump-Russia investigation, followed by the Scott Pruitt investigation and his subsequent resignation as head of the EPA at #4. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk 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.
Rare Audio File from 2013: The Late Nick Michaels Interviews Michael Harrison About Music and the Golden Age of Progressive Rock Radio. A rare audio interview conducted by the late Nick Michaels (left) with Michael Harrison (below, on WNEW-FM circa 1972) has been located by TALKERS archivists on the website www.thedeependwithnickmichaels.com. The legendary Michaels – the renowned radio imaging master, voice actor, and host of the classic rock syndicated show "The Deep End" – passed away on May 25 due to a sudden heart attack. The unplanned conversation took place between recording sessions when Michaels and Harrison were collaborating on a music radio two-hour special titled, "The Classic Rock Summer of '13 Kick-Off," as the temporary team of Michael and Michaels. In this 30-plus minute interview, Michaels asks Harrison about his early days as a pioneer in progressive rock radio and his opinion about various classic artists as well as the state of music radio in general. Students of music radio history and devotees of album rock will find this conversation extremely informative and entertaining. To listen to it in its entirety, please click here.
More Music Radio News and Career Moves. In the Tampa market, evening personality Terry Young "The Motormouth" moves to morning drive at NIA Broadcasting's rhythmic AC WTMP-AM/W248CA, effective July 9…..Yea Networks' syndicated "Tino Cochino Radio" program is added to the evening daypart at Mapleton Commuications' CHR KZBD, Spokane "107.5 NOW."…..SiriusXM's Heart & Soul and Kirk Franklin's Praise channels are broadcasting live interviews from the 2018 Essence Music Festival taking place in New Orleans this weekend. SiriusXM hosts Cayman Kelly, Michel Wright and Meta Washington will be live on the Ford Stage interviewing some of the biggest singers and actors.
Monday, May 14, 2018
TALKERS Magazine's 2018 Heavy Hundred to Be Published Next Monday. On May 21, TALKERS magazine will post the 2018 edition of "The 100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America" – known informally as the Heavy Hundred. This 24thedition of the Heavy Hundred is from the editors of TALKERS magazine who base their ranking of the hosts on a number of hard and soft factors, including: ratings, revenue, courage, effort, impact, longevity, potential, recognition, service, talent, and uniqueness. TALKERS VP and executive editor Kevin Casey says, "As in previous years, talk hosts must be working a regularly scheduled show on at least one terrestrial station or on satellite radio at the time the list is published in order to be considered. Our editorial staff works very hard to consider all of the numerous personalities who qualify, and then whittle it down to just 100… a difficult task. This list is admittedly subjective to one degree or another but we at TALKERS take the task very seriously. We look forward to revealing the 2018 Heavy Hundred next Monday."
'Our American Stories' Joins KABC, Los Angeles Lineup. The nationally syndicated "Our American Stories" program is being added to the program schedule at Cumulus Media's KABC, Los Angeles, "Talk Radio 790" in the 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm slot. Program host Lee Habeeb says the program is "a show about the events and people that made America great, and will keep her great." Topics range from sports to history to art and "stories about the remarkable things Americans do every day to make the country hum." Habeeb adds, "Every day, all we hear in the media is what's wrong with America and what divides us. So, we thought it would be a good idea to remind people about what unites us, what makes us all proud to call America home. This is an amazing country and we keep things focused on the positive stories that are all around us." Program affiliate rep Bryan Dawson adds, "Our affiliates have sung the praises of the show, and the production quality. Once the GMs and PDs hear the quality of the show, it practically sells itself, and we've gotten to 120-plus affiliates fast because the listeners have been longing for a show like this, with these kinds of production values and writing – and a show that makes them feel good about the country they live in."
Michael Coover Appointed Executive Producer for 'Orange & Blue 760' in Denver. The Denver Broncos-focused sports talk station KDSP, Denver "Orange & Blue 760" announces that Michael Coover is named executive producer for the station. Coover's duties include producing multiple dayparts, handling the station's digital footprint and elevating 'Orange & Blue 760' as the station enters its second year. He reports to KDSP and KHOW program director Tim Spence, who comments, "Michael's knowledge of Denver and its competitive ratings battles, his experience on a national level and his overall relationship with players and coaches makes him an ideal candidate for 'Orange & Blue 760.'" Coover served FOX Sports Radio for 15 years. He was executive producer at KKFN, Denver and, most recently, was executive talent booker for Envision Networks.
Bishop & Laurinaitis Show Debuts on 'The Fan' in Columbus. Sports talk outlet WBNS-FM, Columbus "97.1 The Fan" replaces the Tim Hall and Beanie Wells late morning program with a new show co-hosted by sports talk pro Beau Bishop and former Ohio State and NFL linebacker James Laurinaitis. The RadiOhio-owned station is plugging the duo into the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon slot, effective today (5/14). Bishop had been serving with Entercom's Cleveland sports talk outlet WKRK-FM "92.3 The Fan." Laurinaitis has been working as an analyst on the Big Ten Network.
Salem Radio Star and Media Icon Joe Piscopo to Be Special Luncheon Speaker at TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! – The organizers of TALKERS magazine's 21st annual installment of the talk media industry's longest-running and most-important national convention TALKERS 2018: Full Speed Ahead! – set for Friday, June 8 in New York City – are pleased to announce that WNYM, New York "970 AM The Answer" morning host and longtime media icon Joe Piscopo will be delivering a special luncheon address at the gathering. Piscopo gained national recognition for his comedic work as an early regular on Saturday Night Live, as well as starring in a number of motion pictures during his illustrious career. The lunch, sponsored for the second consecutive year by the Salem Media Group, is just one of a non-stop series of keynote addresses, panel discussions, fireside chats, networking socials and exhibits of the latest services and equipment available to on-air and online broadcasting professionals that make up the agenda of the sold-out gathering. The power-packed program will feature more than 65 top speakers from all aspects of the spoken-word media industry – including talent, programmers, managers and owners – with a focus on talk radio and its role in the rapidly accelerating digital age. This will include programming, sales, marketing, and technology, as well as the full spectrum of concerns, challenges and opportunities facing modern-day talk broadcasters and broadcasting organizations. See the list of speakers and up-to-the-minute agenda as well as last-minute sponsorship and hotel information by clicking here. The conference takes place at the ultra-modern Helen Mills Event Space and Theater in the colorful Chelsea District of Manhattan.
National Radio Hall of Fame Announces 2018 Nominees. Today begins the voting process for the 2018 class of inductees into the National Radio Hall of Fame. The 24 nominations in six categories were determined by the organization's nominating committee. Four of those categories will be voted on by a voting participant panel comprised of nearly 1,000 industry professionals. The other two categories will be voted on by the public. Public voting commences June 4 for eight nominations for Music Format On-Air Personality and Spoken Word On-Air Personality. This year's nominees in the publicly voted Spoken Word On-Air Personality category are: Westwood One's Mark Levin, SiriusXM's Joe Madison, Premiere Networks' George Noory, and CBS Sports Radio's Jim Rome. National Radio Hall of Fame chairman Kraig Kitchin says, "I personally appreciate the challenging task that our Nominating Committee accepts each year to officially nominate talent from an infinite list of deserving individuals. Congratulations to this year's nominees, an excellent selection of our industry's finest." Inductees will be announced June 25. See all the nominees here.
TALKERS News Notes. A Memorial Day weekend radio special that looks at the tumultuous year of 1968 is being offered to Westwood One News affiliate stations. "1968: The Year That Shook America" is hosted by Westwood One News correspondent Michael Toscano. Westwood One says that Toscano takes listeners back the year when "conflict and confusion reigned across America. The Vietnam War raged at full throttle. The assassinations of Dr. Martin Luther King and Senator Robert Kennedy stunned the nation. Inner city riots erupted. Young people were making their voices heard in protest on college campuses. New leaders emerged and the culture changed forever." The program replaces "The Week in Review" during Memorial Day weekend, May 26-27. Pictured here is Toscano (right) interviewing Pat Buchanan (left) about his work on Richard Nixon's 1968 campaign with the president-elect…..A deal between NPR and Spotify is allowing Spotify users to have access to NPR's podcast catalogue. Spotify global head of podcast partnerships Dossie McGraw says, "For both Spotify and NPR, joining forces just makes sense and we're delighted to bring NPR podcasts to Spotify users. Podcasts are gifts you give yourself in moments of the day when you want to catch up on the news or hear thoughtful commentary on issues affecting us all or just have some fun with a game show like 'Wait Wait… Don't Tell Me!'"…..SiriusXM Satellite Radio begins its first-ever free preview to non-subscribers in an effort to promote its newly re-designed app for iOS and Android. Today through May 29, anyone with an inactive satellite radio, or who has an internet connected mobile device and/or web access can sample SiriusXM's content without any registration requirements. The deal includes access to all music and talk channels, including Howard Stern's channels.
U.S. Exits Iran Nuclear Deal, Trump's ZTE Statement, Indonesia Church Bombings, Haspel Nomination, John McCain Health, U.S.'s Israel Embassy Move, MLB Action, and NBA Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The response to President Trump's withdrawing the U.S. from the Iran nuclear deal; reaction to President Trump's desire to "save" Chinese tech firm ZTE; the weekend bombings of three Christian churches in Indonesia; the confirmation hearings of CIA Director nominee Gina Haspel; the health status of Senator John McCain and the flap over a reported comment by a Trump staffer that McCain's opinions don't matter because "he'll be dead soon"; the deadly protests over the re-location of the U.S. embassy in Israel to Jerusalem; Major League Baseball action; and the NBA playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Last Thursday evening, Charlie Puth (left) took over the stage at the iHeartRadio Theater in New York to perform songs from his new album, Voicenotes, at the iHeartRadio Album Release Party. In addition to Puth performing tunes from his new record, the event included a Q&A with iHeartRadio on-air personality Maxwell (right). (Photo: Rachel Kaplan for iHeartMedia)…..Beasley Media Group's classic rock WCSX, Detroit, along with the City of Ann Arbor, Michigan and the Ann Arbor School Board, are teaming up to have a street named in honor of Detroit rock legend Bob Seger in front of his Alma Mater in Ann Arbor. WCSX morning personality Jim O' Brien worked with the City of Ann Arbor and the Ann Arbor School Board to find a stretch of boulevard on the grounds of Pioneer High School (formerly known as Ann Arbor High back then and Seger's Alma Mater) on the corner of Main Street. Big Jim is quoted saying, "Bob Seger is part of my life. The first song at my wedding reception was 'Real Love' by Seger and my favorite road trip song ever is 'Roll Me Away.' Bob Seger is everything good about Detroit… hard working, passionate and genuine. When we found this stretch of road in Ann Arbor at his high school, it just made sense to make Bob Seger Boulevard a reality. And it's connected to Main Street!"
Thursday, December 22, 2016
Nielsen Audio to Increase PPM Panel Size. The radio industry has been asking for larger panels for the PPM surveys and yesterday (12/21) Nielsen Audio granted the business that long-sought-after wish. In a press release, Nielsen announced it will increase "the effective sample size of the panel by 10% across all markets and demographics starting mid-2017. Nielsen's enhanced PPM panel will have more than 80,000 installed meters. This means that on an average day over 65,000 panelists will contribute to the ratings. The increase represents more than 6,000 additional panelists on a daily basis across the aggregate of PPM markets. The sample increase will be distributed proportionally across all demographics." President for Nielsen product leadership Megan Clarken states, "Larger sample sizes are important due to the continuing fragmentation of audiences and the need for more granular analysis of the data. This expansion will be an important step forward in the accuracy and quality of our audio estimates. Increasing the size of our PPM panel will allow our clients to continue to share their story with confidence and in a way that resonates with advertisers." The company also says that the recent acquisition of Gracenote will allow it to explore "ways to leverage Gracenote's vast footprint in over 70 million car infotainment systems as well as their expertise as the industry standard for automatic content recognition to help expand our measurement of in-car audio and in-car digital listening." Managing director for Nielsen Audio Brad Kelly, adds, "An increase in the PPM sample size is the number one priority for our clients. With this investment, Nielsen is doubling down on its commitment to the radio industry and addressing the needs of our clients. We are thrilled to rollout this enhancement that will continue to build a stronger radio advertising marketplace."
ESPN Extends Deal with Bomani Jones. Sports giant ESPN inks a contract renewal with Bomani Jones. He currently hosts the 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm ET slot on ESPN Radio – "The Right Time with Bomani Jones" – and appears on ESPN television on "Highly Questionable" with Dan Le Batard and Papi weekdays at 4:30 pm. The company says additional projects featuring Jones will be developed. Jones says, "I'm really happy to continue my relationship with ESPN. I've spent the last three-and-a-half years working with some of the best and brightest people in sports, and it's great to know that will continue. More than that, I'm excited about everything that will be possible in the next few years on television and continuing to build 'The Right Time' on ESPN Radio."
Our American Network Offers Holiday Specials. The producer of the two-hour, nightly syndicated radio show "Our American Stories" is offering a Christmas special and a weeklong, "Best of 2016" special. Lee Habeeb hosts and produces "Our American Stories." He says the Christmas special "will feature stories about how the song 'White Christmas' came to be, along with a superb story about the Bing Crosby and David Bowie duet of 'The Little Drummer Boy.' We will also delve into the origins of many of our greatest Christmas traditions, from the Christmas tree to Christmas lights, and so much more." That show airs live from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm on Friday (12/23). "Our American Stories Best of 2016" will showcase a week of some the year's most memorable segments from the year. Habeeb says, "Included are profiles and rare interviews with actor Gene Wilder, musician Merle Haggard, golf legend Arnold Palmer, plus profile segments about Johnny Carson, Frank Sinatra, Annie Oakley and Jimmy Stewart. It will be the best of the best of 'Our American Stories.'" For market exclusivity on the Christmas and/or week-long "Best of" special, contact firstname.lastname@example.com or by calling 239-470-9297.
iHeartMedia and Jingle Punks Create 'National Jingle Day'; Honor Barry Manilow for Career Jingle Work. In collaboration with audio creative agency Jingle Punks, iHeartMedia is debuting the first annual iHeartMedia's National Jingle Day Presented by Jingle Punks, taking place on Monday, December 26. The event will debut new jingles from the ACLU, Aloe Gloe, Axe Hair, Band-Aid Brand Adhesive Bandages, Chase Freedom Unlimited, Glade, Logitech, musical.ly, Outback Steakhouse, Suave, Ziploc and more. The two companies partnered with the brands to script, record and produce 13 original jingles, back-to-back in 13 hours. Select jingles will air nationwide on December 26 across hundreds of iHeartMedia radio stations and on digital platform iHeartRadio. Also, video social network musical.ly is going to share a selection of the original jingles with its community of more than 160 million users, allowing them to create videos set to their favorite jingle. Jingle Punks president and CEO Jared Gutstadt comments, "National Jingle Day was created to bring the jingle back into the spotlight in an impactful, disruptive way. Music is the most powerful way to reach people, so we teamed up with iHeartMedia to create 13 jingles for 13 brands in 13 hours, and ended up with some kick-ass audio creative that celebrates the adventure of sound in today's modern world." In connection with National Jingle Day, Barry Manilow is being honored as the first-ever inductee into the National Jingle Day Hall of Fame for his voice work on iconic brands such as McDonald's, Band-Aid, KFC and State Farm.
Nielsen Audio Releases Round Three of December 2016 PPM Data. The third of four rounds of December 2016 PPM ratings data from Nielsen Audio has been released for 12 markets including: Portland, Charlotte, Pittsburgh, Sacramento, San Antonio, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Kansas City, Orlando, and Columbus. The December 2016 survey period covered November 3-30. 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.
Odds & Sods. Portland sports talker KXTG "750/102.9 The Game" adds Seattle Mariners baseball to its programming. The Alpha Media station announced yesterday that it is adding KIRO-AM-based duo "Brock & Salk" to its lineup and today's move adds more Seattle-based sports content…..ESPN Radio is adding four new shows to its winter weekend lineup. The new shows are "Rothenberg & Medcalf" (Saturdays, 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm ET), featuring Dave Rothenberg and Myron Medcalf; "Robin & Reese" (Saturdays, 11:00 pm to 1:00 am) with Robin Lundberg and Reese Waters; "Clinton Yates, Mina Kimes & Domonique Foxworth" (Sundays, 9:00 am to 12:00 noon); and Jordan Rodgers & Jason Fitz (10:00 pm to 12:00 midnight).
Trump Transition, Popular Vote vs Electoral College, Walmart 'Black Lives Matter' Case, Iran Involvement in Syria, Search for Berlin Terror Suspect, North Carolina Bathroom Law Issue, and NFL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (12/21). The Trump Administration's transition, including Kellyanne Conway's appointment as counselor to the president; the final presidential election figures showing Hillary Clinton's popular vote margin of victory; Walmart's response to request by national Fraternal Order of Police to remove "Black Lives Matter" shirts from its website; new information indicating Iran's military is playing violent role in Aleppo, Syria; the search for the man German authorities believe was responsible for the deadly truck attack in Berlin; the failure of the North Carolina Senate to repeal the law requiring people use public restrooms that align with their gender at birth; and chatter about the NFL playoff possibilities were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Special PodcastOne Live Event. On Monday (12/19), PodcastOne host Adam Carolla (second from right) invited 100 fans to an advanced screening of the new film, Why Him? on the FOX Studios backlot. Following the showing, stars (left to right) James Franco, Megan Mullally and Bryan Cranston joined Carolla for a live podcast. The group covered everything, from growing up to current projects, and culminated with a few questions from audience members.

subset: commoncrawl