Monday, October 21, 2019

Monday Memo: TV Synergy. The two biggest hits radio suffers during ongoing cost cuts are off-air promotion and local news.  In this week’s column, consultant Holland Cooke lists resourceful tactics that smart stations share with equally challenged TV stations.  Read it here.

Impeachment Inquiry, Mulvaney-Ukraine Controversy, 2020 Presidential Race/Clinton-Gabbard Spat, G7 Summit Flap, Canadian Election, U.S.-China Relations/Hong Kong Protests, and Brexit Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The impeachment inquiry against President Donald Trump; acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney and FOX News’ Chris Wallace spar over Mulvaney’s Ukraine quid pro quo explanation; the 2020 presidential race and the spat between Hillary Clinton and Tulsi Gabbard; the controversy over the White House reversing its decision to hold the 2020 G7 summit at the Trump National Doral; Canada goes to the polls today as Justin Trudeau fights for his political life; the trade negotiations between China and the U.S. and the ongoing protests in Hong Kong; and Boris Johnson’s Brexit strategy were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Celebrity Presenters Announced for Radio Hall of Fame Induction. When the 31st Annual Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony takes place at Gotham Hall in New York City on November 8, it will feature a star-studded lineup of presenters that includes: “Tonight Show” host Jimmy Fallon, actor and producer Christian Slater, “Entertaintment Tonight” co-host Kevin Frazier, veteran radio and cable television programmer and music industry entrepreneur Andy Schuon, SiriusXM vice president/general manager talk programming Dave Gorab, WYNY-FM, New York retired general manager of Frank Osborne, longtime WCBS-FM program director Joe McCoy, and actress, producer, and radio host Connie Sellecca.  This year’s inductees are: Sean “Hollywood” Hamilton, Harry Harrison, Kevin Ryder and Gene “Bean” Baxter (Kevin & Bean), Joe Madison, Jim Rome, Ryan Seacrest, John Tesh, and Dr. Ruth Westheimer.  Radio Hall of Fame chairman Kraig Kitchin comments, “This event is traditionally heartfelt and emotionally charged as the talented inductees are honored for accomplishments that most only dream of.  But this year will be even more magical with this A-list group of presenters who share a special connection with our inductees.”

Hofstra’s WRHU-FM Wins Third Marconi Award. At this year’s Marconi Awards at the NAB/RAB Radio Show in Dallas, Hofstra University’s WRHU, Hempstead, New York took home its third Marconi Award.  The school’s station won the Noncommercial Station of the Year in 2014 and 2017.  This year, the station won the inaugural College Station of the Year honor.  TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a feature-length look at Hofstra’s WRHU.  Kinosian writes that several things make WRHU unique.  “Operated primarily by a roughly 250-member student staff, which in itself is fairly mind-blowing, the noncommercial, educational, community-oriented facility has another 20 or so ‘community volunteers.’”  Read the entire piece here.

‘New Jersey 101.5’ to Hold Opioid Town Hall. On Wednesday (10/23) at 7:00 pm, Townsquare Media news/talk outlet WKXW, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” is presenting a special Town Hall broadcast confronting the opioid crisis and how it affects New Jersey residents.  The program includes “New Jersey 101.5” special projects director and morning news anchor Eric Scott leading the news and digital departments in bringing listeners personal stories of addiction and recovery, a discussion of the physical and physiological effects of opioids that lead to addiction, and information about state programs designed to help.  The on-air guest panel is comprised of alumni of New Jersey recovery programs: Leah Butacavoli, a residential tech at GenPsych; Alton Robinson, founder of Flanders, New Jersey-based Community Recovery Center of Morris County; and Cheryl Semiz, director of outreach for Sparta, New Jersey-based Garden State Treatment Center.  They will answer live, call-in questions from listeners throughout the hour.  “New Jersey 101.5” brand manager Anne Gress says, “As the opioid crisis continues to threaten New Jersey, we understand our responsibility to use our powerful voice and multiple platforms to continue the conversation on this pervasive epidemic.  I am proud to be part of a station and media company that understands this responsibility and is bringing this critically important information to the community.”  The program will be streamed via Facebook Live.  The “New Jersey 101.5” news department, under the direction of Annette Petriccione, will air a series of special news segments from station investigative reporter David Matthau titled, “Battling Addiction,” beginning today (10/21) and continuing up to the Town Hall broadcast.  Online versions of those stories are being made available on NJ1015.com and the free “New Jersey 101.5” app.

TALKERS News Notes. WHO, Des Moines afternoon drive personality Simon Conway’s Puppy Jake Foundation raised more than $40,000 in two hours on Friday (10/18) to acquire, raise, and train service dogs for veterans.  The sixth annual free BBQ sandwich giveaway raised $4,000 in its first year and raised incrementally more each successive year.  A local supermarket donated more than 200 pounds of meat and a local barbecue grilling champion donated buns and sauce and did the cooking.  Pictured at right are some of the cars lining up to get their free BBQ.  Conway says, “I have the best audience in talk radio.  They are astonishing!  I also have to thank some of my show’s sponsors who have taken this charity to their hearts.”…..SiriusXM is again offering NBA fans extensive coverage of the 2019-20 season with live play-by-play of every game from Opening Night through The Finals, plus daily in-depth talk and analysis on its SiriusXM NBA Radio channel.  The NBA begins its 74th season tomorrow (10/22)…..iHeartMedia teams up with Mental Floss to launch a new history podcast titled, “History Vs.”  The iHeartRadio Original Podcast explores the lives of historical figures who made a lasting impact on today’s society and culture, with this season examining U.S President Theodore Roosevelt.  Mental Floss editor-in-chief Erin McCarthy hosts the show.

iHeartMedia Names Yesenia Bello SVP of Multicultural Sales. In this newly created position, Yesenia Bello will be responsible for developing sales opportunities with key multicultural advertisers and their agencies across iHeartMedia broadcast stations, digital, podcast, events and Premiere Networks.  She will also work closely with Enrique Santos, chairman and chief creative officer of iHeartLatino, to create an innovative go-to-market audio strategy for iHeartMedia’s Hispanic portfolio.  In addition, she will also lead sales efforts for the iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina annual concert in Miami.  Bello most recently worked at Google, where she focused on Multicultural strategy and sales for YouTube advertisers.  Bello says, “I’m thrilled to join iHeartMedia during a time when cultural sound is creating a seismic shift in the music industry and is reshaping how we consume and how we experience music.  iHeart has a great history of embracing its Hispanic and African-American listeners and I can’t wait to help create an innovative, strategic focus in multicultural audiences that will deliver incremental growth across iHeartMedia’s portfolio of assets.”

Jim Bohannon Is Guest on Harrison Podcast. Perennial TALKERS “Heavy Hundred” star Jim Bohannon guests on the award-winning PodcastOne series “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Next year marks the Cumulus Media/Westwood One personality’s 60^th anniversary in radio. Harrison and Bohannon discuss the mega-changes that have occurred in the radio business over the past six decades, taking a seasoned look at the current state of the medium and its trajectory going forward including a fascinating analysis on the ever-changing relationship between content and platform. They also discuss the implications of the disappearance of the local radio station as a community cultural center. To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the player box marked “The Michael Harrison Interview” located in the right-hand column of the TALKERS email newsletter and on every page of Talkers.com.

Sales Assistant Gig in Charlotte. At its Charlotte station group that includes news/talk WBT-AM/FM, sports talk WFNZ-AM/FM, and hot AC WLNK-FM, Entercom is seeking a detail-oriented and energetic individual to serve as a sales assistant. Entercom says, “The primary role of this position is to help coordinate all aspects of the local business and sales efforts – order entry, traffic coordination, promotional fulfillment, and communication with clients and vendors. Other duties include editing and formatting sales proposals, creating client recaps, and assisting in sales and business reporting. Secondary duties include coordinating on-air promos, assisting with employee and client meetings, and assisting in office management. Get more info and apply here.

Station Manager Position in Cincinnati. Christian broadcaster Pillar of Fire has a station manager position open in Cincinnati. The post says: Are you looking for a job with purpose? Contemporary Christian music station “STAR 93.3” (WAKW) Cincinnati is looking for a qualified, well-rounded individual to oversee and ensure the smooth daily operation and growth of the radio station. This position involves managing the staff, administrative, compliance, technical, program, fundraising, and sales aspects of the station. Reporting to the network director of broadcasting, the station manager is responsible for fostering the positive organizational culture, personality, listener growth, and financial viability of the station and representing the station at local and industry-wide events. Job requirements include a bachelor’s degree, commitment to excellence, and at least 5 years of successful radio station management. ‘STAR 93.3’ offers a positive working environment. Send your resume to: hr@star933.com. No calls please. EOE.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Programming pro Rich Bailey is named program director for Cumulus Media’s country WIVK, Knoxville.  He served as the program director for SummitMedia’s CHR WWST, Sevierville, Tennessee “Star 102.1” for the past 23 years.  Cumulus Knoxville VP/market manager Ken Salyer says, “The opportunity to have Rich join our team in Knoxville was simply too good to pass up.  His dedication to detail and drive to win is known industry wide.  This elevates our group to an entirely new level.”…..Cumulus Media’s Westwood One announces it is now offering a third version of the classic hits format for stations seeking a gold-based pop radio format with more 60s music.  Classic Hits Gold complements the company’s modern Classic Hits format, which has evolved to be a core ‘80s format with some ‘90s, and its Classic Hits Rock, that features rock classics.  Classic Hits Gold feature proven hit music from the mid-to-late-60s through the early-to-mid-80s, from core artists such as: The Eagles, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Fleetwood Mac, The Rolling Stones, Michael Jackson, Billy Joel, Hall & Oates, Queen, The Beatles, and Chicago…..Entercom announces the lineup for its “7th Annual We Can Survive, presented by AT&T” benefit concert at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.  The RADIO.COM event, hosted by local CHR KAMP-FM “97.1 AMP Radio,” will feature performances by Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, Camila Cabello, Jonas Brothers, Lizzo, Marshmello, and Becky G.  Proceeds from the event will help the American Cancer Society save more lives from breast cancer.  Entercom SVP of programming and musical initiatives Michael Martin says, “‘We Can Survive’ will bring together legendary artists on an iconic stage for a great cause.  We’re looking forward to bringing audiences together for an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind evening.  The anticipation for this event has been outstanding, with tickets selling out in under 30 minutes.”…..In Louisville, content director and afternoon personality Juan Hustle exits Alpha Media’s hip hop WGZB “B96.5” after a stint of more than four years…..Northeast Broadcasting makes a change at its Burlington, Vermont station group, flipping adult hits WWMP “Free 103.3” to rock at “Rock 103,3.”  Core artists for the format include: Red Hot Chili Peppers, Smashing Pumpkins, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, Jimi Hendrix, Papa Roach, Rage Against The Machine, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Nirvana and the Foo Fighters…..There’s more downsizing at Forever Media’s Salisbury-Ocean City, Maryland cluster as Tom Schultz exits classic hits WAVD, Ocean City “97.1 The Wave.”   Also exiting her position is classic hits WNCL, Milford, Delaware “COOL 101.3” midday personality Paula Sangaleer…..The Mainstay Station Trust – created to hold and sell four stations Cumulus Media was required to let go of after its 2017 reorganization – will sell WPCK-FM, Denmark, Wisconsin (Green Bay market) and WNUQ, Sylvester, Georgia (Albany market).  Educational Media Foundation will buy WPCK for $512,000 and Pretoria Fields Collective Media will acquire WNUQ for $98,000…..iHeartMedia alternative rock WRFF, Philadelphia “Radio 104.5” announces the return of the “Radio 104.5 Miller Lite Mystery Show.”  It will take place on Saturday, November 30 at the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia and will feature a surprise performance from one of today’s top performing artists.  Fans will learn who the performer is as they walk on stage.  The 2018 “Radio 104.5 Miller Lite Mystery Show” featured a performance from Bastille.

Friday, October 18, 2019

NOW POSTED:  New Installment of “The Michael Harrison Wrap: An Overview of the National Conversation.”   The vibrant one-hour weekend special, “The Michael Harrison Wrap,” that looks back each week at the hottest topics discussed in American talk media per the research of TALKERS magazine, is now posted on the website of its flagship station, iHeartMedia’s WONK-FM, Washington, DC (10/18).  The new episode titled “Quid Pro Schmo!,” looks back at this past week of October 14-18, 2019 and features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS magazine;  Harry Hurley, talk show host WPG, Atlantic City, NJ; Michael Zwerling, talk show host/owner, KSCO, Santa Cruz, CA; Richard Neer, talk show host, WFAN, New York; and Marianne Williamson, author/presidential candidate.  This acclaimed news/talk radio show airs on WONK-FM on Friday afternoons between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm as well as other stations around the country including KSCO, Santa Cruz, CA; and KBKW, Aberdeen, WA as a special week-in-review and during the weekend on the Virginia Talk Radio Network as well as Pioneer Valley Radio in Springfield, MA and the iHeartRadio App.  To listen to this week’s episode (and the program’s complete archives), please click here.  To view the latest TALKERS magazine topic research, please click here.

Entercom Expands Distribution Footprint for RADIO.COM. As explained by Entercom VP corporate business development David Rosenbloom, the company’s goal for RADIO.COM is to get it on as many platforms as possible.  He says, “We are committed to our position as a premiere destination for live and on-demand audio news, entertainment, music, and sports content in the U.S.  The partnerships with Autonomic Controls, DTS Play-Fi, and BluOS mark yet another expansion to the distribution footprint for RADIO.COM, ensuring that we are delivering the audio content our listeners want wherever and however they want it.”  These deals mean Autonomic Controls and BluOS will fully integrate RADIO.COM and their audio content throughout the entire home via Autonomic’s Tune Bridge application and any speakers or amplifiers from NAD Electronics, Bluesound, and DALI Loudspeakers that contain the BluOS platform.  DTS Play-Fi users will have access to RADIO.COM on more than 200 products across 30 brands in the DTS Play-Fi ecosystem, including Onkyo, Pioneer, Klipsch, and Dish TV, among others.  Entercom says these platforms “join a roster of home and auto-connected devices that carry RADIO.COM, including Amazon Echo, Amazon FireTV, Sonos, Roku, Google Home, Google Chromecast, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and many more.”

Beasley Names Todd Handy Chief Digital Officer. This is a newly created position at Beasley Media Group that Todd Handy will assume on November 1.  Beasley says Handy has “been at the forefront of the digital media space for more than a decade, having spent six years in local media responsible for sales, advertising strategy and products, ad operations and analytics, programmatic sales and native advertising.  Most recently he was vice president of digital media & ad tech at MarketStar.  Handy currently is a member of the Dream Local Digital board of directors.  Handy says, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to join Beasley Media Group in this role.  I’ve been impressed by the alignment and focus of the executive team and know of Caroline’s commitment to diversifying revenue and growing the company overall.  I look forward to bringing my prior experience together with Beasley’s people, culture, and properties to develop solutions that will benefit our listeners, advertisers, and employees.  I can’t wait to get started!”

Salem Radio Network Covers Texas Trump Rally. Pictured above is Salem Radio Network White House correspondent Greg Clugson reporting from the American Airlines Center in Dallas where President Trump held a “Keep America Great” rally on Thursday night (1017).  Clugson filed stories for Salem Radio Network News and TOWNHALL News.

Impeachment Inquiry/Ukraine Scandal Top News/Talk Story for Week of October 14-18. The Democrats’ impeachment inquiry against President Donald Trump and the related Ukraine scandal involving Hunter and Joe Biden and Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers Ten^TM.  At #2 this week was the U.S. troop withdrawal from Syria.  Coming in at #3 was the 2020 presidential race and the related Democratic debate, followed by health care reform and climate change at #4.  The Talkers Ten^TM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.  It is published every Friday at Talkers.com.  See this week’s entire chart here.

TALKERS News Notes. Reality TV star Paul Teutul Sr. is launching a new podcast titled, “Behind the Scenes at OCC” that features the crew at Orange County Choppers.  The show digs into decades of behind-the-scenes stories as the crew reminisces through experiences, encounters, builds, and shop drama to give listeners the OCC lore that made the TV show famous.  It also promises to tell the stories of the numerous celebrities who’ve had bikes built for them, including Adam Carolla and Steven Tyler.  The program is managed by Steve Lapa and Lapcom Communications and is produced and distributed by DAX/Global in partnership with The Podglomerate…..ESPN Radio is broadcasting the World Series presented by YouTube TV.  Dan Shulman calls the action for the ninth consecutive season.  He’s being joined by analyst Chris Singleton and reporter Buster Olney.  Commentators Marc Kestecher, Kevin Winter, and Tim Kurkjian host the hour-long pregame shows prior to each game.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. In the Fayetteville market, Beasley Media Group promotes Gregory “G Moniy” Johnson to afternoon drive at hip hop WZFX, Whiteville “Foxy 99.”  Johnson has been with the company since 2006, most recently as a part-time air personality.  Beasley Media Group Fayetteville VP and market manager Kent Dunn says, “It’s great to see talent grow from within.  G has demonstrated with his on-air talent that he is the right candidate for the new role.  We all look forward in seeing G grow!”…..Curtis Media Group names Brandon Fanney general sales manager for CHR duo WWPL-FM and WPLW-FM, Raleigh “96.9 & 102.5 Pulse FM” and hot AC WPLW-AM/W225DF “92.9 Star FM.”  Fanney was most recently VP/sales at Voice Media.  Curtis Media Group president/COO Trip Savery comments, “We are very pleased to welcome Brandon to Curtis Media Group.  His experiences working on successful campaigns with local businesses in markets across the region will serve him well as he begins this new role in the Triangle.”.….Pictured below is Premiere Networks personality Amy Brown (right) with Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth (left) on the “4 Things with Amy Brown.”  Chenoweth discussed her new hit album, “For The Girls” (Concord Records) – a heart felt tribute to some of the great female singers who have influenced her, including: Barbra Streisand, Dolly Parton, and Judy Garland.

Thursday, October 17, 2019

PodcastOne and Edison Research Reveal Data on Podcast ‘Super Listeners’ at IAB Upfront. The topline findings from the first-ever Super Listeners study from PodcastOne and Edison Research were revealed yesterday (10/16) at the IAB Podcast Upfront in New York and the complete findings will be made available via a webinar on Tuesday, October 22.  PodcastOne and Edison say, “This study showcases the power of podcasting’s most active consumers, including how they react to advertising, the role ads play in their listening experience, and what the industry must be cautious about in maximizing advertising impact.”  The podcast “super listeners” are defined as “those who spend at least five hours listening to podcasts each week.”  This smaller number of consumers that account for a high degree of demand are the people most likely to hear podcasting ads and to really have an opinion about them.  Some of the highlights of the study indicate that advertising in podcasts increases favorability for specific brands.  For example, 60% of “super listeners” appreciate podcast advertisers for supporting their favorite podcasts and 44% say their opinion of a company is more positive when they hear it mentioned in a podcast they regularly listen to.  This favorability impacts the thing advertisers care about most, conversions.  70% considered a new product or service as a result of hearing a sponsorship or ad on a podcast they regularly listen to and 43% say that when price/quality are equal, they prefer to buy products from companies that advertise on podcasts they regularly listen to.  However, the study also warns that too many ads will leave a negative impression as 50% of “super listeners” say it is important or very important to limit their exposure to ads and 49% of say there are more ads now than there were a year ago.  Right now, only 24% say there are too many ads in podcasts, compared to 62% for TV, 47% for AM/FM radio and 45% for streaming audio.  The webinar will feature PodcastOne CEO Peter Morris and Edison Research SVP Tom Webster as they walk attendees through an exclusive look at podcasting’s heaviest listeners, their attitudes towards advertising, and how they view podcasting in the greater media landscape.  Register here.

Westwood One to Distribute ‘The McLaughlin Group’ Programs. Though we lost program creator and original host John McLaughlin in 2016, the political roundtable talk show “The McLaughlin Group” has been airing on Maryland Public Television since January of this year with a scheduled rollout to public television stations across the country in January 2020.  Now, Cumulus Media’s Westwood One announces it is exclusively distributing and selling a new podcast and weekend radio show with “The McLaughlin Group.”  The podcast becomes available on the Westwood One Podcast Network on November 1, and the radio show will debut the weekend of December 7-8.  New host, political writer and commentator Tom Rogan, is joined by original panel members Pat Buchanan, Eleanor Clift, and Clarence Page.  Additionally, new generation of panelists will join the group engaging in conversations about politics, culture, and foreign policy issues. Listeners will get content from the TV program as well as original bonus content in both the radio show and the podcast.  Cumulus Media EVP and Westwood One president Suzanne Grimes states, “We’re proud to provide access to this legendary show as we gear up for what will certainly be one of the most heated election years in American history.  ‘The McLaughlin Group’ was a pioneer among political talk shows and this distinguished iteration lead by Tom Rogan offers important commentary at a significant time.”  “The McLaughlin Group” is produced by BL Sports & Media Group.

TALKERS News Notes. The nominations for the Digital Hollywood Awards are announced and PodcastOne proudly reveals that its programs have earned a total of 51 nominations in the event’s inaugural year.  The awards will be announced at the Digital Hollywood Conference on November 14, 2019.  PodcastOne CEO Norm Pattiz states, “From the day PodcastOne was founded, we were committed to providing advertisers and listeners programming in all genres. Our showing at the Digital Hollywood Awards, with 51 nominations, shows that we accomplished that goal.”  See all the nominations here…..Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that former WSCR-AM “The Score” sports talk host Jason Goff is joining NBC Sports Chicago to host pre-game and post-game shows for Chicago Bulls games.  Goff lost his gig at “The Score” after Entercom SVP and market manager Jimmy de Castro decided some of the station’s hosts were becoming too political, writes Feder…..Award-winning television producer and writer Shonda Rhimes is partnering with iHeartMedia to launch Shondaland Audio that will develop a full slate of iHeartRadio Original Podcasts set to release over the next three years as part of the iHeartPodcast Network.  Rhimes will oversee the development and chief digital and design officer Sandie Bailey will manage day-to-day operation.  Rhimes says, “Podcasting continues to see tremendous growth and I’m excited to partner with iHeartMedia as Shondaland expands its storytelling journey into this medium which has seemed to usher in a unique sense of boldness, intimacy and connection.  With iHeartMedia we aim to share stories that are engaging, insightful, and reflect a robust world-view while staying true to the authentic storytelling voice that has become synonymous with Shondaland.”

Executive Moves at Urban One. The company promotes VP and deputy general counsel C. Kristopher Simpson to senior vice president and general counsel.  At the same time, Urban One announces it is bringing Tony Spinelli aboard as chief information officer.  The company says Simpson will now oversee legal operations across the company’s five divisions.  Throughout his tenure with Urban One, Simpson has provided counsel to the board of directors, executive management, and corporate finance/treasury teams.  He’s also served as counsel on various acquisitions and divestitures across Urban One’s divisions, managed its outside counsel, and worked with its investment advisors on various refinancing projects.  Urban One says Spinelli – who comes to the company after 25 years in the financial services industry – will manage all aspects of the company’s technology infrastructure.  He most recently led the digital startup, Fractal Industries.

2020 Presidential Race, U.S.-Syria Policy, Impeachment Inquiry/Ukraine Controversy, U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings Dies, U.S.-China Trade Talks/Hong Kong Bill, and Brexit Deal Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (10/17). The aftermath of Tuesday’s Democratic presidential debate; the Trump Administration’s Syria policy and the withdrawal of American troops for Northeastern Syria; the impeachment inquiry against President Trump and the related controversy over Hunter and Joe Biden’s and Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani’s Ukraine dealings; longtime U.S. Rep. Elijah Cumming dies at 68; the status of U.S.-China trade talks and China’s warning about the U.S. Congress’ Hong Kong bill interfering in their internal affairs; and reports of a Brexit deal on the table were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Legendary Country Jock Bob Kingsley Passes at 80. Country radio air personality Bob Kingsley passed away today (10/17) at his home in Weatherford, Texas after a battle with bladder cancer.  He was 80.  Kingsley’s “Bob Kingsley’s Country Top 40” is produced by his KCCS Productions and syndicated globally by Westwood One.  A celebration of life is planned for November 14 at the CMA Theater at the Country Music Hall of Fame.  TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian profiled Kingsley several years back when he served as special features editor for Inside Radio.  Read that piece here.

More Music Radio News and Career Moves. At Cumulus Media’s hot AC WDVD, Detroit, midday personality and assistant program director Kendall Taylor adds music director duties for the station.  Cumulus Detroit director of FM programming Lance Tidwell says, “Since I started last December, Kendall has been such an important team member and she contributes so much to WDVD.  She brings great ideas and follows them with great organization and execution to what we do on WDVD.  I am thrilled to have her to help improve communication with our important label partners and bringing her own perspective to what we do musically at WDVD.”…..Entercom announces the three dates and lineups for its “Not So Silent Night” alternative music festival.  The RADIO.COM event will happen in New York, hosted by WNYL “ALT 92.3” on December 5; in San Diego, hosted by KBZT-FM “ALT 949” on December 8; and in San Francisco, hosted by KITS “ALT 105.3” on December 7.  Acts booked include: Mumford & Sons, Cage the Elephant, Vampire Weekend, Twenty-One Pilots, Neon Trees, and more…..Modelo beer teams up with rapper Anderson .Paak for the “Modelo Fighting Chance Concert Series,” produced by iHeartRadio, in an effort to raise money for the International Rescue Committee (IRC) to help refugees, immigrants, and Americans in need achieve their full potential.  Anderson .Paak will perform in San Francisco on November 13, Atlanta on November 15, and New York on November 17…..Skratch N Sniff’s Halloween Mix 2019, “Puddle of Blood” features guest host Wes Scantlin from Puddle of Mudd in which he’ll play his favorite Halloween tunes in the mix with tracks from the new album, Welcome to Galvania.  The radio special syndicated by Compass Media Networks is available for alternative and rock stations for air Friday, October 25 through Halloween…..Pictured below at last night’s “iHeartRadio ICONS with Elton John” at the iHeartRadio Theater in Los Angeles is pop icon Elton John (left) with WAXQ, New York “Q104” morning personality Jim Kerr (right).  The event celebrated the release of John’s autobiography, ME (2019, Henry Holt) as Kerr spoke with John about his life and career.

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

Results of WWO’s Podcast Download Fall 2019 Report. This third annual fall study looks into the audience and advertiser trends for podcasts.  Cumulus Media’s Westwood One conducted the study in conjunction with consumer research firm MARU/Matchbox.  It was fielded online late this summer using a nationally representative sample of 601 respondents over the age of 18 who listened to at least one hour of podcasts within a week.  WWO president Suzanne Grimes says, “On the audience side, our latest study finds the majority of new podcast listeners are women and that there is a disconnect between smart speaker ownership and smart speaker usage for podcast.  For advertisers, it’s important to understand that podcast ad preferences for the industry and listeners are at a crossroads – listeners want host-read ads, while the use of traditional pre-produced ads is growing.”  The study found that compared to July 2017, weekly female podcast listeners are spending +23% more time with podcasts.  It also learned that podcast events are a huge growth opportunity for content providers and advertisers.   “Podcast listeners are willing to travel, intend to go to more events, and are open to spending. These podcast event-goers skew male, Millennial 18-34, and are heavy podcast and audio users. One out of five heavy podcast listeners (19%) reported attending a live podcast show.  52% of podcast event-goers are willing to travel over 25 miles to see a live show.”  However, the study also reveals that while smart speaker ownership has increased, “there is little podcast listening on smart speakers…although podcast listeners are 33% more likely to own a smart speaker, their device ownership is not translating into smart speaker podcast listening.  From 2017 to 2019, the number of weekly podcast listeners who use smart speakers to listen to podcasts only grew from 16% to 18%.”  See more here.

Advertiser Sentiment Study Shows Positive Trends in Podcast Advertising. In more podcast-related news and in advance of today’s IAB Podcast Upfront taking place in New York City today (10/16), Westwood One commissioned a study by Advertiser Perceptions to get a handle on podcast advertising sentiment among agencies and advertisers.  The study compares results from the first questionnaire of some 300 agency and marketer respondents in 2015 with this year’s responses.  It indicates that the number of advertisers considering podcast advertising this year is holding steady compared to 2018, with 42% of agencies and marketers definitely considering podcast ads in the next six months.  That’s up from the 18% considering podcast advertising in September of 2015.  As far as actual usage goes, 39% of agencies and marketers are currently advertising in podcasts, up from 32% in May 2018 and up from 15% in September of 2015.  See the Westwood One blog post here.

iHeartMedia’s KFI, Los Angeles and Voice Coach Roger Love Launch Podcast. A new iHeartRadio Original Podcast is being launched by iHeartMedia’s KFI, Los Angeles and renowned voice coach Roger Love.  Titled, “Love Your Voice,” the program is designed to “take listeners on a journey to discover how their voice can positively affect all aspects of their life, from personal to business.  Using real life examples, and with the help of some of his celebrity students like actor Eric McCormack, host Roger Love will help listeners ‘Love Your Voice,’ and then use that voice to change their life.”  Love says, “Our voice tells people a lot about us.  From breathing to melody and tone, your voice can determine the quality of your life and how much success you achieve.  In this new podcast, I’ll take my more than 30 years of experience with singers, actors, actresses, and public speakers and teach you how subtle changes to the way you breathe and speak can change your voice for the better.”

TALKERS News Notes. “The Breakfast Club” star Angela Yee is the guest on the first episode of the Premiere Networks and Dr. Dave Creative Entertainment podcast called, “The Spirited Actor.”  The program is hosted by world-renowned casting director and celebrity acting coach Tracey Moore.  On the show, Moore welcomes celebrities, actors, and industry insiders to discuss the challenges, obstacles, and truths about working in show business.  Yee appears on the podcast to talk about her work as a transitional actor…..The ABC News Investigative Unit and ABC Audio are producing a new podcast titled, “Have You See This Man?,” hosted by “The View” co-host Sunny Hostin with ABC News’ senior investigative reporter Matthew Mosk.  As the title implies, it investigates the cases of most-wanted criminals in the U.S. and the first two episodes focus on convicted murderer Lester Eubanks, who’s been on the run for more than 45 years.  The podcast reveals Eubanks’ crimes and prison escape and features exclusive interviews with key players who knew both Eubanks and his victim.  Listeners are encouraged to provide tips on Eubanks’ whereabouts to the U.S. Marshals.

Democratic Debate/2020 Presidential Race, Impeachment Inquiry, Ukraine Controversy, U.S. Pulls Out of Syrian Conflict, Catch and Kill Book, U.S.-China Relations/Hong Kong Bill, and Brexit Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (10/15). Last night’s Democratic debate and the 2020 presidential race; the Democrats’ impeachment inquiry against President Trump; the controversial Ukraine dealings involving Hunter and Joe Biden and Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani; the state of the war in Syria after the U.S. withdrawal; the controversy surrounding Ronan Farrow’s Catch and Kill book; the trade negotiations between the U.S. and China and the Hong Kong bill making its way through congress; and the U.K.’s Brexit procedure 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. Air personality Karina Farias is promoted to program director for Bonneville’s classic rock KUFX, San Jose “98.5 KFOX.”  She’s been a weekend personality at sister adult contemporary KOIT, San Francisco.  Director of programming and operations Brian Figula states, “Karina has quickly elevated our music and programming initiatives for both KUFX and KOIT.  Her passion, commitment, and digital talents will reinforce the market-leading classic rock position we have on 98.5 KFOX.  Nobody deserves this opportunity more than Karina.”…..Bustos Media Holdings closes on the acquisition of KRCW-FM, Royal City, Washington (in the Tri-Cities market) from Farmworkers Educational Radio Network, Inc.   The station airs a regional Mexican format.

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.”