Tag: "Adam Carolla"
Tuesday, June 27, 2017
Dennis Prager Guests on This Week’s Harrison Podcast. Longtime Salem Radio Network radio host Dennis Prager joins Michael Harrison as this week’s guest on the PodcastOne award-winning series, “Up Close and Far Out.” The two seasoned broadcasters get into an in-depth discussion about “snowflakes” and the erosion of free speech on college and
university campuses across the nation. The conversation focuses on a forthcoming documentary examining the phenomenon. The film, No Safe Spaces, currently in production and scheduled for release in 2018, features the unlikely pairing of religious scholar and conservative pundit Prager with satirist, podcaster and self-proclaimed atheist Adam Carolla. The unlikely duo has joined forces in the crowd-funded project based on their common concerns about the state of free speech on university campuses in America today. Harrison and Prager also discuss the state of religion, media, politics and raising children in today’s increasingly frenzied culture. To listen to the entire podcast, please click here or click on the “Up Close and Far Out” player box located in the right-hand column on every page of Talkers.com.
TALKERS News Notes. TALKERS magazine hears that WPRO-AM/WEAN-FM, Providence program director Tony Mascaro has exited the station, though there’s been no public explanation by Mascaro or station
management. It’s unclear what WPRO’s plans are for replacing Mascaro…..Today and tomorrow (6/27-
28), KHOW, Denver morning drive personality Ross Kaminsky is sitting in for Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo on his WOAI, San Antonio-based, nationally syndicated program…..In Tampa, John Mamola tweets that he’s been promoted from his APD/executive producer/online content coordinator role at iHeartMedia’s sports talk WDAE to program director. He’s been with the station for the past six years. The Chicago native previously served with CBS RADIO in the Windy City…..ABC Radio is debuting a new podcast titled “Motivated” hosted by ABC News Correspondent
Mara Schiavocampo. The podcast addresses all things health, wellness, nutrition and spirituality. ABC Radio says, “After struggling with her weight her entire life, Schiavocampo finally discovered the keys to living a healthier, happier life and losing 90 pounds along the way. She shares her journey in her bestselling weight loss memoir, Thinspired: How I Lost 90 Pounds: My Plan for Lasting Weight Loss & Self-Acceptance.
Will WFAN (and Sports Talk) Exist 30 Years from Now? Those are the questions asked by Newsday
columnist Neil Best, who reflects on the state of sports talk radio in New York as CBS RADIO’s WFAN celebrates its 30th anniversary as a sports talk station. Original WFAN staffer Suzyn Waldman says that while it’s true that social media has changed the game, two people talking is what makes sports talk radio. “It’s a person, and you can hear the feelings. And I think if you’re a host, this never goes away: If you’re on the radio, fans know immediately whether you’re full of baloney or you’re not. They can love you, they can hate you, but they know whether you’re honest. You can’t hide.” Read Best’s Newsday piece here.
TALKERS 2017 Convention Videos Begin Posting Today (6/27). The entire agenda of the recent Talkers 2017: A New Era national talk media convention has been video recorded and, beginning today (6/27), its sessions will be posted to Talkers.com starting with the “Welcoming Remarks” by WMAL, Washington, DC afternoon drive host Larry O’ Connor. Tomorrow (6/28), the special presentation “You HAVE Options” by consultant Holland Cooke will be posted. On Thursday (6/29) the “Fireside Chat” between Michael Harrison and Premiere Networks/Fox News Channel host Sean Hannity will be posted. Closing out the week on Friday (6/30) the “Fireside Chat” between Mike Kinosian and WFAN, New York sports talk show host Mike Francesa will be posted. Within the following weeks, every session will be posted and will remain on Talkers.com for the rest of the year. To view the video page of Talkers 2017: A New Era, please click here.
WILK-AM/FM, Wilkes-Barre’s L.A. Tarone Dies at 58. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton talk show host Louis Alfred Tarone, a.k.a. L.A. Tarone, died at age 58 on Sunday (6/25) after a 19-month battle with lung cancer. Tarone hosted the afternoon drive show on the Entercom news/talk station during the last two years. He’d also worked during his career as a reporter for the Hazleton Standard-Speaker.
SCOTUS Travel Ban Ruling, GOP Health Care Plan, CNN Journos Resign After Retracted Story, U.S. Warns Syria on Chemical Attack, Changes at Pandora, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (6/26). The Supreme Court’s ruling allowing a portion of President Donald Trump’s travel ban from seven predominantly Muslim nations to take effect; analysis of the GOP’s proposed overhaul of the Affordable Care Act; the resignation of three CNN journalists after the news organization retracts a Trump official-Russia connection story; the White House warns Syria’s Bashar al Assad on threats of new chemical weapons attack; the recent investment in Pandora by SiriusXM and Pandora CEO Tim Westergren’s decision to step down from that post; and Major League Baseball action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Seattle rhythmic oldies outlet KHTP “HOT 103.7” announces the addition of Seattle radio pro Eric Power as program director and afternoon drive personality plus
the addition of award-winning rap artist Anthony Ray, a.k.a. Sir Mix-A-Lot to serve as morning drive personality. Both start July 5. Entercom Seattle VP of programming and operations Dave Richards comments, “We’re so excited to 
have Eric Powers on board to lead ‘HOT 103.7.’ He is the guy who made all the songs ‘HOT 103.7’ now play, hits in the first place. With two local Seattle icons, Sir Mix-A-Lot in mornings and Powers in afternoons, ‘HOT 103.7’ is ready to launch into the next stratosphere.”…..Two promotions take place at Cumulus Media’s hot AC WRQX, Washington, DC. First, midday
personality and music director Ashley Nickels adds assistant program director duties, and the station ups part-timer Seth King to permanent evening host, handling the 7:00 pm to 12:00 midnight daypart. Nickels has been with the station since she joined from KDND, 
Sacramento in 2014. King became a WRQX personality after working on air at CHR WXXX, Burlington, Vermont…..Midday air personality Sunni moves to mornings at CBS RADIO’s hip hop WPGC, Washington. She becomes part of the “Joe Clair Morning Show” after six years with the station. CBS Washington VP of programming Steve Davis states, “Sunni is the perfect fit for the ‘Joe
Clair Morning Show’ and we are incredibly fortunate she wanted to get up early and make the transition to mornings…..The Cromwell Group names Tara Nickerson general manager for its eight-station Decatur, Illinois cluster. Nickerson rises from the programming and operations ranks with Cromwell to lead the cluster, taking over for Chris Bullock…..Tim Westergren officially exits the CEO role at Pandora. The company announces that chief financial officer Naveen Chopra will serve as interim CEO…..Alpha Media country WFLS, Fredericksburg, Virginia is honored with three Reader’s Choice awards from the local Discover magazine. The station took home 1st Place awards for Favorite Radio Station, Favorite Local Radio Personality – Steve Waters and Jessica Cash, and Favorite Weather and Traffic on Radio.
MIW and Nielsen Music Unveil Mentoring Program. The Mentoring & Inspiring Women in Radio Group executive committee and Nielsen Music announce a collaborative effort to open doors for women 
interested in management positions in music broadcast programming across the country. The MIW-Nielsen Music Mentoring Program matches a female programming candidate with key mentors from both the MIW Radio Group and Nielsen Music to sharpen her programming and professional skills and further her career in music programming. MIW Group executive committee member and Presslaff Interactive Revenue president Ruth Presslaff says, “Improving the number of women in programming has been on our radar for several years. With the generous support of Nielsen Music, the MIW Group is now keenly focused on the challenge of increasing the percentage of growth in this vitally important sector. We are so appreciative of Nielsen Music’s backing in this endeavor.”
Thursday, May 25, 2017
Today It’s Hannity, Tomorrow It May Be You. Nashville-based Westwood One nationally syndicated talk show host Phil Valentine writes today about the campaign being waged against Fox News Channel and Premiere Networks talk show host Sean Hannity for his reporting on and opining on the murder of DNC staffer Seth Rich. Media Matters is targeting Hannity’s advertisers in what is likely an attempt to get Fox to take action against Hannity. Valentine says that those on the left cheering and those on the right standing idly by are potentially risking their own hides somewhere down the road if this effort is successful. “The radical left loves to call conservatives fascists, yet there is nothing more fascist than shutting down people who dare utter something counter to your world view. That goes for both sides of the aisle. It’s one thing to simply stop patronizing a business because of the causes or people they support. It’s another thing altogether to launch a vicious e-mail campaign of threats and intimidation.” Coincidentally, Sean Hannity will be presented with TALKERS magazine’s Freedom of Speech Award at Talkers 2017: A New Era in New York on June 2. Read Valentine’s entire piece here.
Chris Berry Appointed SVP of News, Talk and Sports for iHeartMedia. Radio programming, sales and management pro Chris Berry takes on the SVP of news, talk and sports post for iHeartMedia. The company says
that Berry “will oversee our news, talk and sports brands, where he’ll provide strategic guidance for our spoken-word formats and connect key advertisers with iHeartMedia’s news, talk and sports audiences.” Berry has been serving as SVP/general manager for NBC News Radio and 24/7 News Network, a position he’ll maintain. During his career, Berry has been VP/GM for ABC News Radio and VP/GM of WMAL, Washington, to name a few. He joined 24/7 News Network as senior vice president and general manager in March 2011 and has spearheaded NBC News Radio’s editorial content since 24/7 News began syndicating the network in July 2016. Meet Chris Berry at Talkers 2017: A New Era in New York City on June 2. See details here.
WBAL, Baltimore Names Jeff Wade News Director. Baltimore news/talk WBAL “Newsradio 1090” names Jeff Wade news director, effective June 5. Wade comes to the Hearst Television-owned station from his most 
recent position with Binnie Media’s Concord, New Hampshire operations as director of news and talk programming. During his career, he’s also served with Saga Communications at news/talk WGAN, Portland as news director. WBAL president and general manager Cary Pahigian states, “Jeff has a deep appreciation for WBAL’s zealous commitment to 24/7 news coverage. His leadership, along with the skills and experience of our news team, will allow WBAL to fortify its position as Maryland’s leading radio news source.” Speaking about his new gig, Wade remarks, “I’m excited to be joining WBAL and the Hearst team. This is one of America’s iconic radio stations with a proud legacy as a news leader staffed by an all-star team of experienced and knowledgeable talent.”
iHeartMedia Promotes Programmer Brian Hall. Programming pro Brian Hall is upped to senior vice president of programming at the company’s Asheville operations. Hall has most recently been serving as program
director for the company’s news/talk WWNC “News Radio 570,” progressive talk WPEK “880 The Revolution” in Asheville and WGVL, Greenville, South Carolina “FOX Sports 1440.” Music stations in the cluster include: adult hits W249AR “97,7 The Brew,” country WKSF “99.9 Kiss Country,” CHR WQNQ “Star 104.3,” and classic rock WQNS “Rock 105.1.” iHeartMedia area president for Asheville, Greenville and Greensboro Bill McMartin states, “Brian’s vast experience in Asheville will really help us continue to dominate the market in every format. We have an experienced team in Asheville who all have great respect for Brian and his ability to lead our programming efforts.”
Adam Carolla and Dennis Prager Begin Crowdfunding Effort for Free Speech Film. Yes, that’s right, conservative media figure and divinity scholar Dennis Prager, and podcaster/comic and atheist Adam Carolla are teaming up to produce a film titled, No Safe Spaces, that addresses the effects of political correctness on 
America’s college campuses. The idea for the film came about after the unlikely duo’s recent scheduled appearance at UC Northridge was cancelled by the administration. The event did go on after their lawyers pressured the college and their speeches were taped for the film. Now, they are beginning an Indiegogo campaign to raise $1 million over the next few weeks to complete production of the feature-length film that will examine the effects of political correctness on college campuses and how the phenomenon will affect America’s future as restrictions on free speech move beyond the campus to American society. Prager comments, “This is a story that must be told because the future of our country literally depends on what happens on these campuses. If these students don’t understand the very concept of free speech, our whole nation is in trouble.” The film takes Prager and Carolla to college campuses across the country, interviewing students and professors, comedians and commentators on the left and right, and those who have been impacted by the silencing of different voices on campus, analyzing the value of so-called safe-spaces.
PPM Analysis: Baseball Flagships. How did the first month of the 2017 Major League Baseball season go for radio play-by-play flagships? TALKERS magazine editor Mike Kinosian addresses that very question, reporting on the 6+ performances of baseball flagship stations based on data from the April 2017 PPM survey from Nielsen Audio. Ten stations saw their 6+ numbers go up at least one full share, with CBS RADIO’s KMOX, St. Louis shooting up 2.2 shares to an 8.4 share (and good for a #1 market rank). iHeartMedia’s WLW, Cincinnati was close behind, rising by 2.1 to a 9.3 share. See the whole report here.
TALKERS News Notes. In Chicago, Salem Media Group adjusts its programming on news/talk WIND by
moving the Salem Radio Network’s Larry Elder show from overnights (1:00 am to 3:00 am) to the 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm slot, followed by its “Jay Sekulow Live” program at 9:00 pm. The shows bump the Dave Ramsey program from the station’s program schedule, effective June 1…..Next season, Detroit Pistons games will be heard on CBS RADIO’s sports talk WXYT-FM, moving from Beasley’s crosstown WMGC. The NBA club’s games were originally heard on WMGC when it was a sports talk station – “Detroit Sports 105.1” – and remained there after the station flipped to classic hip hop and R&B. In the event of conflicts on WXYT-FM, Pistons games will move to the company’s all-news WWJ-AM.
Manchester Bombing Aftermath, Trump’s International Trip, Trump-Russia Investigation, Obama MS-13 Controversy, China Criticizes U.S. Ship Movement, Trump Budget Proposal, and MLB, NBA and NHL Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/24). The arrests of family members of Manchester bomber Salman Abedi and the task of preventing more attacks; President Donald Trump’s trip abroad; the investigation into possible connections between Trump campaign operatives and Russia; a whistleblower alleges Obama’s Unaccompanied Children policy allowed MS-13 gang members to be settled in the U.S.; China lashes out at the U.S. after a Navy destroyer sails within 12 miles of its military, man-made island; the Congressional Budget Office’s report on the Trump Administration budget proposal; and MLB, NBA and NHL action were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Cool Programming Opportunity. The Springfield, Illinois operations of Mid-West Family Broadcasting is seeking an operations manager for the four-station cluster consisting of news/talk WMAY-AM, adult contemporary WNNS, rock WQLZ, and country WUSW. The company is seeking candidates who possess the following qualifications: Love to coach and develop talent, especially in the talk format; can do an airshift in multiple formats; understand that a digital plan is not a banner ad and a station stream; realize that a remote appearance is the exact opposite of being remote to listeners; know how to make Selector sing; have the instincts to do it your way and not wait for a corporate mandate. If this sounds too good to be true, it’s not. It’s Mid-West Family Broadcasting in the Land of Lincoln: Springfield, Illinois. Mid-West is an employee-owned company. If you want to talk in strict confidence, send an e-mail, resume and salary requirements to Harvey Wells at: hwells@mwfbmedia.com. What’s sent to Springfield stays in Springfield. Mid-West Family Broadcasting is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women and minority candidates are encouraged to apply.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. With the move of rock radio pro Jay Philpott from Cumulus Media’s WNNX, Atlanta to its Twin Cities rocker KQRS, the company is seeking Philpott’s replacement for the afternoon drive show on WNNX…..Hubbard Broadcasting VP/regional manager of Minnesota Dan Seeman announces that Jeff Hilborn is named general manager for the Hubbard Broadcasting radio stations in Brainerd, Minnesota. Hilborn will oversee adult contemporary WJJY, classic rock KLIZ-FM “The Power Loon,” country KBLB “B93.3,” oldies KUAL “KOOL 103.5,” sports talk KLIZ-AM and business news KVBR-AM. The stations were part of the group of 16 Omni Broadcasting outlets acquired by Hubbard the 2015 transaction. Hilborn will replace retiring general manager Mike Boen.
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 affiliates@oanetwork.org 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.
Wednesday, May 4, 2016
CBS RADIO Dips 2% in First Quarter. When CBS Corp. delivers its quarterly financial reports, the focus is on television and this first quarter of 2016 is no different. As a whole, the revenue for the first quarter was $3.85 billion – an increase of 10%. But looking at radio – which is part of the company’s Local Broadcasting division – net revenue was down 2%. As for the status of the radio division, CEO Les Moonves and CFO Joseph Ianniello reiterated what’s been said publicly over the past few months: The company is pursuing making CBS RADIO a separate, publicly traded company and, at the same time, is listening to any offers to divest of some or all of the stations if it can do so in a tax-friendly manner.
iHeartMedia Reports Q1 Revenue Up 6%. Compared to the same period a year ago, revenue for the iHeartMedia division of iHeartCommunications Inc. increased $41.1 million – a jump of 6%. The company says the hike was “driven primarily by increases in our core radio business, both broadcast and digital, including the impact of trade and barter and political advertising revenues, driven in part by our live events, as well as increases in our traffic and weather business. Revenue also increased in our syndication business driven by growth in our news/talk format. Trade and barter includes the impact of marketing partnerships with our advertisers on live events, as well as revenue recognized in connection with advertising services provided during the quarter in connection with investments made in the fourth quarter of 2015 in certain non-public companies.”
Beasley Broadcast Group Q1 Revenue Rises 13.2% on Strength of New Tampa and Charlotte Properties. The net revenue for the first quarter was $27.5 million – an increase of 13.2% — that is largely the result of its late 2014 station swap with CBS RADIO. Beasley Broadcast Group traded five stations in Philadelphia and Miami for 13 outlets in Tampa and Charlotte (and one AM in Philly). Interim CEO Caroline Beasley (who also serves as EVP/CFO) comments,
“While 2016 first quarter revenue included the cyclical return of political advertising, we generated organic revenue growth even without the political spending. In addition, we achieved our goal of our clusters, on a combined basis, outperforming the markets that report to Miller Kaplan for the full quarter and expect this trend to continue in 2016.” Beasley also notes that the company paid down $3 million against its debt, leaving the remaining debt standing at $86 million. She adds, “We intend to continue our use of cash from operations to further reduce debt, pay quarterly cash dividends and to pursue other opportunities to enhance shareholder value and during the first quarter declared our tenth consecutive quarterly cash dividend.”
Envision Networks Debuts ‘Today’s Comedy Network.’ The new comedy radio service from Envision Networks is called “Today’s Comedy Network,” and the company says it’s a “turnkey continuous comedy format for radio 24/7/365,” featuring “non-stop blocks of jokes and one-liners from the best comedians. This fast-paced, safe-for-work and in-the-car comedy fits perfectly for today’s radio listener.” Envision adds it’s “the first one that crosses all lines of income, ethnicity, education and gender. By using easily customizable distribution, affiliates can personalize the station to their own market with content, personalities, and contests. In addition to the informative host, each week a different comedian serves as the special guest host every hour for the entire broadcast week. Listeners will hear tracks from their latest release and inside stories about their travels, friends and insights about comedy.” Regular comics will include: George Carlin, Jim Gaffigan, Jeff Foxworthy, Christopher Titus, Brian Regan, Maria Bamford, Patton Oswalt, Bill Engvall, Eddie Izzard, Lewis Black, Gabriel Iglesias, Louis C. K., Ron White, Kathleen Madigan and many more. Envision president and CEO Danno Wolkoff says, “‘Today’s Comedy’ provides the best experience for radio stations to offer their listeners. The format provides the broadest demographic appeal in the crowded talk format arena and most of all; it’s very, very FUNNY!”
Dr. Drew and Adam Carolla Renew Chemistry with PodcastOne Show. For years, Dr. Drew Pinsky and Adam Carolla worked side-by-side on the nationally syndicated (and recently cancelled) radio show “Loveline.” Now, Carolla and Dr. Drew are back together for a daily podcast titled “Adam & Drew” on the PodcastOne platform. PodcastOne chairman and CEO Norm Pattiz says, “Adam and Drew, together again, five days a week – this time on PodcastOne. There’s really not much more that needs to be said. Who said you can’t go home again?”
WFDF, Detroit Adds Second Former State Rep. for Weekly Show. The station, being operated by Kevin Adell, brings former Michigan State Rep. Cindy Gamrat aboard to host a weekly, Thursday program. Gamrat’s joining the station comes not long after former State Rep. Todd Courser also began hosting a show on the station. Both Gamrat and Courser are facing felony and misdemeanor charges for alleged misconduct for trying to hide their romantic relationship while in office. Both are married. The Detroit News reports that Gamrat is taking on the new duties against her attorney’s advice. Both Gamrat and Courser face potential prison sentences for their alleged misconduct in hiding their affair.
The Presidential Race/Indiana Primary, Navy SEAL Killed in Iraq/Battle Against Islamic State, Syrian Civil Conflict, NATO-Russia Tensions, Flint Water Crisis, and NBA-NHL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/3). The activities of the candidates for president and yesterday’s Indiana primary election; a U.S. Navy SEAL is killed in Iraq and the ongoing battle against Islamic State in the region; the U.S.’s warning to Syria to begin plans for Assad regime change; the military tensions between Russia and NATO; the Flint contaminated water situation and President Obama’s plan to meet with Governor Rick Snyder; and the NBA and NHL playoffs were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Joyce Provides Color on Talk Radio Night in Chattanooga. WGOW-FM, Chattanooga early afternoon talk host Brian Joyce (left) poses for a pic with Chattanooga Lookouts play-by-play man Larry Ward (right) in the booth at AT&T Field. Joyce threw out the first pitch at the AA baseball club’s recent game against the Montgomery Biscuits on what the team dubbed “Talk Radio Night.” He says he was honored to be able to join Ward in the booth to do some color commentary. Joyce – a Division I college baseball player at Davidson College – reports that, unlike so many first pitches by celebrities, his was a perfect strike!
Michael Harrison Gets ‘Up Close and Far Out’ with Hubbard Radio Chair/CEO Ginny Morris. This week’s episode of the PodcastOne international hit program for media freaks features TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison in a conversation with the TALKERS 2016 recipient of the “Woman of the Year” award – Hubbard Radio chair and chief executive officer Ginny Morris. Morris discusses a wide variety of topics in a candid, informal phone dialogue including the huge impact that the death of Prince had on the Twin Cities market in which Hubbard is based and in which he made his home and was a beloved local figure. She discusses how Hubbard’s local talk station “myTalk107.1” – nationally known for its ongoing pioneering efforts in creating a spoken-word format specifically targeted to females – responded to the shocking event by going non-stop Prince talk. Listeners were invited to share their feelings and personal stories about living in the same
community with the musical legend. Harrison also asks her about the station’s unique and brilliant campaign to promote this programming by putting the message on electronic billboards throughout the market that “myTalk107.1” was talking about Prince right now! She discusses the history of “myTalk107.1” and the many different approaches it attempted on its way to eventually gaining traction with a female-targeted talk format. Morris also relates how it feels being a third-generation broadcaster (her grandfather started the family owned-and-operated company in the Twin Cities back in the early 1920s). She optimistically discusses the challenges facing radio today competing in the digital era as well as attracting younger listeners and employees. Harrison asks her if the recent rapid growth of Hubbard in acquiring stations has generated the pitfalls of a corporate environment to which she answers it has not. She emphasizes that Hubbard’s stations are managed locally and do not receive micro-management marching orders from company headquarters. Morris says that Hubbard is extensively engaged in audience research on a “granular level.” She talks about the cultural importance of preserving radio and television history and heritage and cites her passion for the work being done at the Library of American Broadcasting at the University of Maryland among a variety of other topics. Ginny Morris will receive the “Judy Jarvis Memorial Award for Outstanding Contributions to the Radio Industry by a Woman” (a.k.a. “Woman of the Year”) at the forthcoming TALKERS 2016: Bridging the Generations convention on Friday, May 20 on the campus of Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY. To listen to the entire podcast, please click here or click on the “Up Close and Far Out” player box located in the right-hand column on every page of Talkers.com and RadioInfo.com. For complete information about TALKERS 2016: Bridging the Generations, please click here.
Cool Job Opportunities. KNX, Los Angeles has two openings in the news department. The station is seeking a news writer/editor and a news anchor. For information about the news writer/editor position and to apply, click here.. For details on the news anchor post and to apply, click here.
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
PodcastOne Launches Premium Service. This just-announced service from podcasting giant PodcastOne will present to subscribers “new exclusive content and interactive opportunities…available from the top podcasters across America, including PodcastOne’s Adam Carolla, Shaquille O’Neal, Steve Austin, Heather Dubrow, Brandi Glanville, Nicole ‘Snooki’ Polizzi, Larry King, Dan Patrick, Rich Eisen, Jay Mohr, Dr. Drew, Penn Jillette, and more. Additionally, a series of Adam Carolla interviews with the top names in music, show business and beyond, will be made exclusively available and commercial free for PodcastOne Premium members [that] brings fans the closest
they’ll ever be to their favorite podcast hosts through interactive opportunities, and is available, effective immediately.” The company says the exclusively-available Adam Carolla interview series features talents like Seth MacFarlane, Bryan Cranston, Michael Moore, Seth Rogan, Alec Baldwin, Bob Odenkirk, Kevin Costner and more, all commercial-free. Carolla also moves his entire premium 
collection to the PodcastOne platform, with new episodes weekly, including the popular “Take A Knee” podcast, along with “Two Chairs and a Mic” and original series’ “Adam’s Best” and “Adam’s Week In Rage.” PodcastOne chairman and CEO Norm Pattiz says, “We’ve been developing new content and opportunities to give our listeners the best experience possible, bringing together our podcast programs, original exclusives and multi-media engagement opportunities. Exclusive content and subscriber-only opportunities and events will make the ‘limited commercials’ perk seem small. This will be the best Premium podcast platform out there.”
BIA/Kelsey: WTOP, Washington Top Biller for 2015; KFI, Los Angeles Back in Top 10. Perennial big biller WTOP, Washington is the #1 biller in the nation for 2015 according to data from BIA/Kelsey. Hubbard Radio’s WTOP has been the top biller five out of the last six years. It was bested in 2014 by KIIS, Los Angeles (which finished #2 in 2015). Major market all-newsers showed well
again this year with CBS RADIO’s WCBS-AM, New York (#5); WINS, New York (#9); and WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM, Chicago (#6) all making the top 10. The company’s sports talk WFAN, New York (#4) was the only sports talker to make the list. Returning to the top 10 after a three-year absence is iHeartMedia’s news/talk KFI, Los Angeles (#10). The rest of the top 10 consists of iHeartMedia music outlets KIIS, Los Angeles (#2); WHTZ, New York (#3); KBIG, Los Angeles (#7); and WLTW, New York (#8).
Greater Media to Celebrate 60 Years in Broadcasting. Tomorrow (3/31), Greater Media celebrates 60 years in the broadcasting business. The company was founded in 1956 by Yale classmates Peter A. Bordes and Joseph Rosenmiller. It began with the ownership of WESO-AM, Southbridge, Massachusetts and grew to multiple radio stations, cable television, printing, publishing, and telecommunications operations by the mid-1980s. In 1999, the company sold its cable business in order to focus more exclusively on its radio and newspaper operations. Greater Media is the parent company of 21 AM and FM
radio stations in Boston, Detroit, Philadelphia, Charlotte, and New Jersey; a group of weekly newspapers in central New Jersey; and several telecommunications towers throughout the United States. Greater Media chairman and CEO Peter Smyth comments, “I am very proud of the achievements of our company over the past 60 years. Greater Media is the culmination of Peter Bordes’ life’s work. I am grateful to our incredible employees for their continued dedication in making Greater Media greater on a daily basis over the past six decades.”
Odds & Sods. Sports media personality and former NFL quarterback Rich Gannon is exiting SiriusXM’s “The Blitz” program to spend more time with his family in Minnesota. Gannon – who’s been with the satcaster for the past seven years – will continue to work for CBS TV’s NFL coverage…..Westwood One is presenting radio play-by-play for the NCAA Men’s Final Four games in Houston on Saturday, April 2 as well as Championship Game on Monday, April 4…..CBS Sports Radio is broadcasting from Houston beginning tomorrow (3/31) live from Westwood One’s radio row at the George R. Brown Convention Center ahead of the NCAA Final Four. Personalities including CBS Sports analyst Doug Gottlieb, former NFL Pro Bowl running back Tiki Barber and sports personality Brandon Tierney will produce content from the scene. Also, various CBS RADIO sports stations, including WFAN-AM/FM, New York; KILT-FM, Houston; and WZGC, Atlanta will broadcast live from the city and will air Westwood One’s play-by-play of the NCAA Final Four games…..Programming pro Louie Cruz is “going home” to Modesto, California to serve as SVP of programming for iHeartMedia’s five-station cluster there that includes: rhythmic oldies KQOD “Mega 100,” hot AC KOSO “B93,” rock KMRQ “Rock 96.7,” and news/talk KFIV “Powertalk.”
The Presidential Race, Brussels and Pakistan Terror Attacks Aftermath, Islamic State Threats in Turkey, Bill Clinton ‘Mistress’ Story, Obama Journalism Lecture, and SCOTUS Public Unions Dues Case Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/29). The activities of the candidates for president and last night’s GOP town hall meeting in Milwaukee; the aftermath of the terror attacks in Brussels and in Pakistan; the State Department’s ordering of U.S. citizens to leave Southern Turkey in the wake of threats from Islamic State; controversy over tales from an alleged Bill Clinton mistress; criticism of President Obama over his chiding of journalists; and the Supreme Court deadlocks on a move to overturn some states’ laws forcing non-union public sector employees to pay union dues were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
MIW Radio Group Announces 2016 Mentees. The four mentees for this year’s 2016 Mildred Carter MIW Group Mentoring Program have been chosen by the Mentoring & Inspiring Women in Radio Group. They are: Kathy Byerly, GSM, Neuhoff Media, Decatur, Illinois; Charlie Maxx, PD, Beasley Media Group, Wilmington, Delaware; Brittney Quarles, LSM, Radio One, Richmond, Virginia; and Stephanie Sabota, GSM, Cox Media Group, Tampa. The MIW Radio Group says the mentoring program matches up-and-coming women in the radio industry with female professionals recognized as leaders in all aspects of radio. To date, the Mildred Carter MIW Group Mentoring Program has successfully mentored a total of 35 mentees. MIW spokeswoman Kay Olin says, “It is very rewarding to track the professional growth and success of our mentees. We can clearly see a direct correlation between the participation in this supportive and impactful program and the accomplishments and professional trajectory our mentees achieve.”
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
PodcastOne Reports 1.5 Billion Downloads in 2015. Actually, the advertiser-supported podcast network says that its download total for 2015 surpassed the 1.5 billion mark for its approximately 200-program lineup that
includes shows featuring: Adam Carolla, Shaquille O’Neal, Dan Patrick, Steve Austin, Radiolab, Bret Easton Ellis, Freakonomics, Heather Dubrow, Brandi Glanville and more. PodcastOne states it worked with more than 100 major brand partners in 2015. Chairman and CEO Norm Pattiz comments, “When we started this journey three years ago, we wanted to be able to provide national advertisers and our programming partners a single destination for consumers to experience the best that podcasting has to offer. So far, so good. We’re grateful to our hosts, producer-publishers and, of course, our partner Hubbard Broadcasting. We look forward to doing our part in making 2016 the year of the podcast.”
The Presidential Race/Trump-Cruz Birther Flap, Hillary Clinton Email Investigation Intensifies, Sean Penn-El Chapo Controversy, Obama State of the Union, Battle Against Islamic State, Sinking Oil Prices/Financial Markets Activity, NFL Wild Card Weekend, Record Powerball Jackpot, and David Bowie Dies Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/11). The activities of the candidates for president and the related “birther” issue between Donald Trump and Ted Cruz; the intensifying FBI probe into Hillary Clinton’s private email server use; the controversial interview between actor Sean Penn and Mexican drug kingpin Joaquin Guzman; President Obama’s Tuesday State of the Union Address; the battle against Islamic State in Iraq and Syria; plummeting oil prices and the effect on the world’s financial markets; the NFL’s Wild Card weekend games; the record $1.4 billion Powerball jackpot; and the death of rock legend David Bowie were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
JP Peterson Joins WDAE, Tampa to Co-Host Midday Show with Ron Diaz. The iHeartMedia Tampa sports talker adds broadcast sports pro JP Peterson to the midday show, partnering up with current show host Ron Diaz for “The Ron and JP Show.” The station notes that Peterson has covered sports in the Tampa Bay market since 1997, most recently hosting “Extra Inning” and “Inside Pitch,” the Tampa Bay Rays pre- and post-game shows on WDAE. He previously served as the lead sports anchor for WFLA-TV, Tampa where he also did sideline reporting and studio work for the Buccaneers Preseason Broadcasts, covered the Super Bowl, Stanley Cup Finals, four Final Fours and four NCAA National Football Championship Games. WDAE APD John Mamola states, “WDAE is thrilled to add JP Peterson to an already established and successful show and as part of iHeartMedia Tampa. We look forward to Ron and JP’s successful future entertaining Tampa Bay listeners with a lighter side of the sports we all care so deeply about.”
Australian Rock Radio Legend Trevor Smith Shares “Down Under” Perspective of Radio, Music, Politics and Pop Culture. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison is joined on this week’s installment (1/12) of PodcastOne’s hit program for media freaks, “Up Close and Far Out,” by Australian rock radio legend Trevor Smith. Smith, a former program
director of the legendary Sidney FM album rocker, Triple-M, is now head of the Australia-based production house Aloha Media (www.alohamedia.com.au/radio/), producers of major syndicated radio programs and specials heard on hundreds of radio stations across the nation/continent. The long-time friends engage in an extensive discussion of all things media from a Land Down Under perspective – radio, music, politics, and pop culture. To listen to the entire conversation, please click here or click on the “Up Close and Far Out” player boxes located in the right-hand column on every page of Talkers.com.
Rush Limbaugh Turns 65 Today. Happy birthday wishes go out to Premiere Networks-syndicated talk radio legend Rush Limbaugh, who celebrates his 65th birthday today (1/12). The news/talk giant will have been in national syndication for 28 years this August and has long and often been credited will breathing fresh life into the news/talk format and, many would also argue, extending the lifespan of the AM band in America.
PodcastOne to Launch Dramatic Series Called ‘Chilling Tales.’ This new partnership between PodcastOne and Chilling Tales for Dark Nights – a premiere multi-media brand specializing in the production of audio entertainment, short films and published works – will bring both published and unpublished literary projects to life with the new scripted series “Chilling Tales: The Podcast.” The program is being narrated by Master Broadcaster and host of the 2016 iHeartRadio Music Festival, Steve Taylor. Chilling Tales founder and director Craig Groshek comments, “Our content has been made possible over the last few years by dozens of voice actors, actresses, authors, editors, composers and sound designers. We’re thrilled to join the PodcastOne family and share our passion for storytelling with an entirely new audience. We can’t thank Norm Pattiz and rest of the PodcastOne team enough, and we look forward to what the future brings with this new platform partnership.” Pattiz says, “I have long wanted to do a series rooted in literature. These are great works. Not only are we giving voices to stories that went unpublished but deserve to be heard, but, from the content to production value, there’s nothing like this in the podcast arena.”
Salazar Joins Entravision as Political Outreach Director. Former Fox Television Washington, DC account executive Marta Salazar is named political outreach director of Entravision Communications. Salazar will oversee political advertising sales for the company’s radio and television stations. The company’s chief revenue officer Mario Carrera remarks, “We are delighted to welcome Marta to Entravision and have her skills and experience to lead our political sales efforts. Her strong
foundations in local market broadcast, in addition to her unique experience in political media, make her the ideal candidate to be our political outreach director. Marta joins us during a presidential election cycle as the United States Latino vote continues to increase in influence in our key battleground markets. We are well positioned and look forward to Marta’s leadership in this important and growing part of our business.” Salazar states, “I am thrilled to be joining the Entravision organization. I am both honored and excited to be at Entravision and look forward to working with the team to help further expand the U.S. Latino voice in this exciting and dynamic political climate. I feel fortunate to be joining such a respected company, committed to both the United States Latino community and to top quality media platforms.” During the 2012 political election season, Salazar – a Florida International University graduate – was responsible for Scripps’ national political advocacy media sales. Entravision owns 23 radio outlets in California; 12 in Texas; four each in Arizona and Colorado; three in Nevada; and two each in Florida and New Mexico.
Odds & Sods. Digital platform Glimmerglass Radio launches its own green-focused radio program in
conjunction with its second anniversary. Glimmerglass radio founder John Kosmer calls his platform “a self-contained online streaming talk radio station broadcasting about 50 shows 24/7.” The new program, “Green American Living,” is the only program Glimmerglass Radio produces itself. Kosmer adds, “Our new ‘Green American Living’ 
show offers radio stations and their listeners extensive in-depth green news reporting on issues that are becoming increasingly important to people around the world. The independent shows aired on Glimmerglass Radio comprise one of the most comprehensive radio green news gathering services in America. ‘Green American Living’ now brings the breadth and scope of that green news reporting to a regularly scheduled, one-hour broadcast intended for distribution.”…..Talk radio personality Hugh Hewitt’s associate producer – Marlon Bateman – has exited the Salem Radio Network in order to join the press operation of GOP presidential hopeful U.S. Senator Marco Rubio…..Sun Broadcast Group’s Marilu Henner (right) is pictured here with rocker Eddie Money (left) who appeared as a guest on her nationally syndicated radio program recently…..Powerball-mania has
America talking and SiriusXM is airing a special program tonight at 6:00 PM ET on its Insight channel 121 called, “Dumb Luck Radio: An Idiot’s Guide to Instant Billions.” SiriusXM says the show will be a “live, one-hour, call-in special broadcast, to answer listeners’ questions including, ‘What happens if you actually win the Powerball jackpot?’” SiriusXM’s Kenny Curtis will host and guests will include: psychiatrist Dr. Michael Aronoff discussing the mental health aspects of acquiring unimaginable wealth; plus Eric Bradlow on statistics and a player’s real probabilities of picking the right numbers; and Kent Smetters will explain the best option – lump sum or annuity, finding the right financial investor and investing wisely to protect one’s winnings.
Thursday, December 17, 2015
DGital Media Partners with Cox to Distribute Herman Cain Show. The WSB-AM, Atlanta-based Herman Cain show will be syndicated and marketed by DGital Media beginning January 4, 2016. Cox Media Group and DGital Media are agreeing to have DGital Media serve as the exclusive
advertising sales representative and its affiliated company WYM Media be the exclusive distributor, handling affiliate marketing. CMG director of branding and programming Pete Spriggs comments, “It is great to be working again with [DGital Media president] John Murphy and the rest of the DGital Media team. My particular experience with them is they are the most original thinkers of any audio company I’ve had the privilege of working with.” Cain’s program is currently heard on some 120 affiliate stations.
‘For Our Daughters’ Re-Ignites Campaign Against WPRO’s John DePetro. According to a piece at GoLocalProv.com, the organization For Our Daughters is renewing its efforts to get late morning talk host John DePetro off the air at Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM, Providence. This battle is an old one and the organization, which according to GoLocalProv.com is led by a number of prominent union leaders, is one with whom DePetro’s clashed on issues in the past. Organization chairwoman Maureen Martin issued the following statement, “Since we started, we estimate we have cost the station close to $150,000 in lost advertising revenue. However, we are disgusted that John DePetro is still allowed to spew his hate speech on the air at WPRO-AM. The lack of action by station management on this issue shows their willingness to empower a unrepentant misogynist. Their continued employment of Mr. DePetro implies their tacit assent to DePetro’s statements. Since our campaign started two years ago, DePetro has continued to berate women and minorities on a daily basis. This can no longer be tolerated. To that end, we have decided to ramp up our campaign to once and for all remove Mr. DePetro from the air.” For his part, DePetro says, “I host a very popular, successful, daily talk show where I allow the public to speak out on current events in the news. The content of my show is family friendly, and I speak with people of all ages and backgrounds. Once again, a group of union supporters and other ultra-liberal individuals, have targeted me and in an attempt to silence me.” Read the GoLocalProv.com piece here.
Chicago Talker Garry Meier to Begin Digital Venture. Chicago radio legend Garry Meier – 13 months removed from his most recent gig at Tribune’s wgn.fm digital platform – is entering the world of digital audio on his own with an online radio show and podcast beginning in 2016. He recently posted his plans on his website. He writes, in part: “As I examined the media landscape, I decided to do something that a great friend and mentor told me to do 10 years ago…onto the Internet…and while I wasn’t ready to make the leap a decade ago, I thought the time is right now to go digital, since everything in the media world is migrating there. It is migration that just about every state will accept. At this point in my career, I want to try something completely new that offers me more control and freedom and also is the wave of the future. While gas prices remain low, my excitement heading into this new chapter is very high. Another familiar voice will be part of the broadcast, as Leslie Keiling returns to do news. I’m happy to have her join me. It might not be the way you listened on traditional radio but breaking away from all of that, I think, is a good thing…so hello from the 50 trillion-watt WIFI.”
PodcastOne Shows Honored with iTunes Awards. This year, seven programs from PodcastOne are being honored in the iTunes Best of 2015 selections. The competitive list, compiled from a collection of more than 250,000 worldwide podcasts, features “The BIG Podcast with Shaq,” named one of the Best Recent Debuts, and “Steve Austin Unleashed” and WNYC-produced “Here’s the Thing,” named with the Best Classics. Celebrating the Most Downloads are “The Adam Carolla Show,” which recently re-upped with PodcastOne for five additional years, as well as “The Dan Patrick Show” and WNYC-produced “Freakonomics” and “Radiolab.” PodcastOne chairman and CEO Norm Pattiz states, “We are very proud of the network roster we have built in the last few years. From production, to distribution and advertising partnerships, all of our programs deliver compelling content that keeps all eyes (and ears) on our collective 200 podcasts.”
Odds & Sods. News/talk KLZ, Denver is adding David Leach’s “The Strident Conservative” commentaries to its programming. The Crawford Broadcasting-owned station is also featuring Leach as a regular contributor to its daily afternoon drive program…..A new podcast featuring Yahoo! Sports personality Adrian Wojnarowski is being produced, distributed and repped by DGital Media. Titled, “The Vertical Podcast with Woj,” the weekly program will focus on the NBA. DGital Media chief content officer Chris Corcoran says, “As a fan of the NBA, and as a fan of audio, I’m always searching for incredible storytellers who will provide a credible and intimate take without all the noise. We are incredibly honored to partner with a game-changing talent like Woj and a top brand like Yahoo! Sports.”…..The web series “Brown Bag Wine Tasting with William Shatner” takes three honors at the recent 7th Annual TASTE Awards. Shatner, CRN Digital Talk Radio, and producer Scott Sternberg partnered to create the show and sold it to Ora TV. CRN Digital Talk Radio CEO and president Michael J. Horn – who is also a sommelier – assists in the selecting and procuring of the wines…..SiriusXM is broadcasting 38 live college bowl games beginning with this Saturday’s Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl. The satcaster is also airing the College Football Playoff Semifinals and National Championship.
AdLarge and Touchdown Radio at the Heisman Dinner. Pictured here at last weekend’s 2015 Heisman Dinner are executives from AdLarge Media and 1992 Heisman Trophy winner Gino Torretta. The former University of Miami star and AdLarge are partners in Torretta’s Touchdown Radio for which AdLarge serves as exclusive ad rep. From left to right are: chief revenue officer Don Wachsmith; Torretta; co-founder and co-CEO Gary Schonfeld; and VP of business development Frank DeSantis.
2016 Presidential Race/GOP Debate, Freddie Gray Mistrial, Obama Gun Control Plans, Battle Against Islamic State, School District Terror Threats, Fed Ups Interest Rates, and Federal Student Drug Use Report Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (12/16). The activities of the candidates for president in 2016 and Tuesday evening’s GOP primary debate in Las Vegas; the mistrial in the first of six police officers to be tried in Baltimore in the death of Freddie Gray; President Obama’s meeting with former New York Governor Michael Bloomberg in formulating new gun control orders; the military campaign against Islamic State and concerns about radical Islamists among Syrian refugees; the terror threats being received by school districts in the U.S.; the hiking of interest rates by the Fed for the first time in nine years; and the just-released federal report on high school student drug use indicating marijuana use tops cigarette smoking for the first time were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Former Baltimore Talk Radio Figure Brian MacDonald Dead at 67. Heart failure is the reported cause of death for former WBAL and WCBM, Baltimore programmer and personality Brian MacDonald. MacDonald got his start in radio programming Baltimore Community College-owned public station WBJC-FM. He served as PD and afternoon host at WBAL from 1975 to 1985, then worked at crosstown WCBM on air for three years before leaving the radio industry.
Thursday, November 5, 2015
The State of Women on Talk Radio: Part 4. Today (11/5), TALKERS magazine continues its multi-part story looking at the status of women on talk radio in 2015. Written by special features correspondent Jeff McKay, it addresses one of the most-asked questions TALKERS editors hear: Why aren’t there more women on talk radio? Today we explore the question: What is the future for women on talk radio? Consultant Valerie
Geller says that developing shows hosted by women, like most new programs, takes time. “Oprah’s audience was made for women, hosted by a woman and got a huge female audience. You also have to give shows time to grow and find their audience. Both Rush and Sean had that. Many female hosts are given an opportunity, but management gets scared and pulls the plug too soon — shows take time to grow — you have to be willing to believe in, develop and then give a talent the time it takes to grow, male or female.” At Tribune’s WGN, Chicago, VP/content and programming Todd 
Manley says his station has numerous female voices – both in news and on talk host positions – and they’ve been brought aboard because they have specific attractive qualities. Wendy Snyder co-hosts middays and Patti Vasquez hosts solo at night. Manley says, “Wendy is just simply curious. She flies into every show without pretense. Plus, she has an engaging lack of filter, which works for her because she’s loving. Patti has an investigative gene and she’s quickly becoming Chicago’s favorite community activist. You throw in her comic genius and you get great laughs with the tears.” Read the entire piece here.
iHeartMedia Q3 Consolidated Revenue Down 3.1%. For the third quarter of 2015, iHeartMedia is reporting that although its consolidated revenue increased slightly during the period, unfavorable impact from movements in foreign exchange rates caused its reported consolidated revenue to drop to $1.57 million – down 3.1% compared to the same period a year ago. The iHeartMedia segment, excluding Americas Outdoor and Internation Outdoor, saw revenue increase $22 million, or 3%, excluding political advertising revenues. On a reported basis, revenue increased $16 million, or 2%, during the third quarter 2015 as compared to the third quarter 2014 driven primarily by sponsorship revenue related to the iHeartRadio Music Festival, barter and trade revenue and digital revenue. Partially offsetting these increases was a decrease in political advertising revenues, lower core broadcast radio revenue and prior year revenue from the radio towers sold this year during the second quarter of 2015.
Townsquare Media Q3 Revenue Up 4.2% on Pro Forma Basis. There are a number of ways to look at the third quarter financial numbers announced by Townsquare Media and the company’s acquisition of non-radio assets is important in sifting through the numbers. The 4.2% increase in net revenue on a pro forma basis means “pro forma for the acquisitions of WE Fest and NAME [North American Midway Entertainment] on October 31, 2014 and September 1, 2015, respectively, as well as for the divestiture of certain of our towers on September 1, 2015.” However, the
company’s net revenue for Q3 increased over the same period a year ago by 9.7% (excluding the NAME acquisition) and 7.1% including NAME and on a constant currency basis. In a press release, chairman and CEO Steven Price states, “We believe our third quarter performance again demonstrates the strength of our diversified strategy. Our results were in line with our guidance and our strong cash flow generation also allowed us to strengthen our balance sheet through the voluntary repayment of $20 million of our outstanding term loan debt.” Looking a little closer, local advertising net revenue increased just $0.6 million, or 0.7% over the same period a year ago.
Art Bell’s ‘Midnight in the Desert’ Clears on KABC, Los Angeles. Many in the talk radio industry are by now aware that late-night paranormal talker Art Bell has returned to hosting a nightly program that is being offered in syndication to AM/FM stations. The former host of “Coast to Coast AM” is putting his show on the internet via his ArtBell.com but recently began affiliate efforts. Now, TALKERS learns the show is now being cleared on Cumulus Media’s KABC, Los Angeles, delayed by an hour from 10:00 pm to 1:00 am PT. Bell recently spoke with TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison on Harrison’s hit podcast for media freaks called “Up Close and Far Out” on the PodcastOne platform. Listen to it here.
Radio One’s Radio Segment Down 6.6% in Third Quarter. Chief executive officer and president Alfred Liggins says the radio segment of Radio One continues to be challenged with its stations underperforming. The dip of 6.6% in net revenue compared to the markets in which they operate – down just 2.2% — should change in the future. “We are seeing some signs of stabilization in our Washington, DC and Houston clusters, as well as strong performances from Dallas, Philadelphia and St Louis. During the quarter we experienced double-digit ratings growth in 11 of our 15 markets, and our four largest markets showed ratings growth of 15% on average from July to September. This positive
ratings momentum should lead to improved monetization in 2016.” The company’s TV One and Reach Media have performed better, helping to offset the radio sector’s performance. The company as a whole reports net revenue up 3.3% for the quarter. Liggins adds, “Fourth quarter core radio advertising revenues, excluding political advertising, are currently pacing (8.3%) YTY. We remain focused on correcting our underperforming radio clusters, while delivering increased cash-flow through overall cost containment, and revenue growth in the cable television business. I am excited that David Kantor has accepted the role as CEO of our radio platform, including our local stations, network and syndication business. Bringing together all of our radio assets under one leadership structure will enhance our ability to compete and transform our business for the future.”
Saga Communications Q3 Net Revenue Down 1.6%. The third quarter report from Saga Communications, Inc. shows the company’s net revenue was down 1.6% on income of $33.8 million. The company also reports that free cash flow increased 11.3% to $5.5 million for the quarter and station operating expense decreased $2.0 million to $24.3 million. For the nine month period from January through September 30, net revenue was down just 0.4% on income of $97.3 million.
Adam Carolla Re-Ups with PodcastOne. One of podcasting’s most successful personalities is continuing his relationship with the Norm Pattiz-founded PodcastOne advertiser-supported podcast network. Carolla Digital and Adam Carolla ink an exclusive sales and marketing deal for an
additional five years. On top of repping the Carolla Digital lineup of programs, the companies will work closely on production and development of new programming. Carolla has been represented by PodcastOne since the company launched. The terms of the deal were not disclosed. Pattiz comments, “I learned one lesson very early in life – if you want to do something, do it with the best. I’ve been working with Adam since his ‘Loveline’ days and I hope that my obituary is read on his show first.”
Michael Harrison Talks About the State of Journalism with CBS News Radio VP, Harvey Nagler. In the latest installment of the international hit PodcastOne series “Up Close and Far Out,” Michael Harrison engages in an in-depth conversation about electronic journalism in the digital age with CBS News Radio VP Harvey Nagler. Nagler is one of the most respected and decorated executives in the realm of radio journalism. The two discuss the role of news on radio today as well as radio’s changing role in the convergence of traditional
platforms. It is a substantive conversation covering everything from media responsibility and the impact of citizen gatekeepers on the state of truth to the evolving mission of journalism schools and emerging opportunities for young people entering the field of news in this very new environment. Harrison and Nagler reflect upon the legacy of Edward R. Murrow and compare what he did in the 1940s and 50s to today’s multimedia 24 hour news cycle. Yes, they even mention Donald Trump and the public’s ever-increasing fascination for politics as an entertaining spectator sport in the current presidential election cycle. To listen to the entire conversation, please click here or click on the “Up Close and Far Out with Michael Harrison” player box located in the right-hand column of every page of Talkers.com and RadioInfo.com.
KABC, Los Angeles to Be Subject of Panel Discussion at SoCal Media Convention. The convention at the Holiday Inn Media Center in Burbank is being presented by SPERDVAC – the Society to Preserve and Encourage Radio Drama, Variety And Comedy and it takes place this weekend. In addition to a lot of recreations of Golden Age of Radio theatre and celeb appearances, there will be panel discussions. One will feature talk about legendary Los Angeles station KABC. Moderating it will be radio pro and former KABC host Bill Moran. On the panel will be Eric Tracy, Carole Hemmingway, Tommy Hawkins, Royale Oaks, George Green, Ira Fistell, and TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison (via Skype). Moran says they discuss what made KABC legendary and how the station’s talk programming has changed since it assumed the spoken-word format in the 1960s. For more information about the convention, visit sperdvac.com.
C. Crane’s Impressive New Building. The family-owned-and-operated C. Crane company has been in business since it was founded at the Crane family’s kitchen table in 1983 selling AM antennas for the love of talk radio. Pictured here, you see the staff of the AM/FM radio and accessories vendor posing during the ribbon-cutting outside C. Crane’s newly remodeled 14,000 square foot facility. Local dignitaries and employees decided they might as well celebrate Halloween at the same time since a big move like this is kind of scary. Company founder Bob Crane says the new digs provide improved efficiency and better access for customers to the new showroom. He says, “Our ability to design and manufacture new proprietary radio products has dramatically accelerated with the new facility.”
2016 Presidential Race, Tuesday’s Election Results, Russian Airline Crash, Syria-Russia Relationship, Illinois Cop Case, European Migrant Troubles-U.S. Immigration Policy, and Quentin Tarantino Controversy Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (11/4). The activities of the candidates for president in 2016, including the controversy surrounding Donald Trump’s scheduled appearance hosting “Saturday Night Live” this weekend; the results of various gubernatorial and mayoral elections on Tuesday; the investigation into the crash of a Russian airliner in the Sinai and the possibility ISIS is responsible; the military relationship between Syria and Russia; the case of the Illinois cop, at first thought killed by attackers and now believed to have committed suicide to hide his theft of funds; the ongoing migrant troubles in European countries and U.S. immigration policy; and the flap over director Quentin Tarantino’s support of a rally against deadly police violence were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Monday, August 3, 2015
Hubbard Radio Invests in Podcasting; Acquires 30% Share of PodcastOne. A statement from the two companies announcing this deal says, “The companies will work closely on synergies in content development, cross-promotion, brand development, new technology opportunities, and local, regional and national joint marketing and advertising. The investment will also allow for rapid expansion of sales and marketing resources, along with the ability to service more clients, as PodcastOne
continues its phenomenal growth trajectory since being founded just three years ago by Kit Gray and Westwood One founder and chairman emeritus Norm Pattiz.” It’s being reported that Hubbard Radio has invested $10 million in PodcastOne, however TALKERS sources hear the actual amount may be north of that. The announcement from Pattiz and Hubbard Radio chair and CEO Ginny Morris states that the agreement maintains PodcastOne and parent company Courtside Entertainment Group’s independent control of all operations. Morris comments, “We could not be more pleased and excited to have the chance to collaborate with Norm Pattiz and Kit Gray. These great audio mavericks have a vision that we believe in and are 
honored to be a part of. Great content always wins, and to make great content available at the convenience of the consumer is a natural evolution and one that our industry is beginning to embrace. It will provide additional options that expand our audience and build the value of our existing assets.” Pattiz adds, “They say you’re judged by the company that you keep. In that case, my reputation just got a huge boost. I am so looking forward to working with Ginny and her entire team. The accomplishments of the Hubbard family in the broadcasting, content and media worlds speak for themselves. I view this as not only a great deal for both of our companies, but more importantly for the radio industry as a whole. Embracing all forms of audio distribution, from broadcasting to streaming and on-demand, is what will drive radio as a medium continually growing and on the cutting edge.” The PodcastOne talent roster includes Adam Carolla, Shaquille O’Neal, Steve Austin, Dan Patrick, Chris Jericho, Penn Jillette, Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi, Shawn and Larry King, Laura Ingraham, Dr. Drew, TheCHIVE, the newly launched Mark Schlereth podcast, plus WNYC’s Radiolab, Freakonomics and many more. This Hubbard-PodcastOne deal comes just a week after it was announced that E.W. Scripps has acquired podcast platform Midroll. Pictured above are (from l-r): Pattiz, Morris and Gray.
McCausland, Saunders Named iHM Market Presidents. Effective immediately, Jeff McCausland (left) is named market president of iHeartMedia Wichita, while Matt Saunders (right) is appointed market president of the company’s Springfield, Missouri stations. Regional market president Beth Davis comments, “Jeff McCausland is a well-respected media leader in the Wichita community. His knowledge of the media landscape and relationships with clients and businesses in Wichita will add to the market’s
current track record of success. Matt Saunders’ many years of building successful sales teams and client relationships make him the ideal leader for our Springfield cluster.” McCausland most recently was general manager of Wichita television stations KSAS and KMTW. He began his career in 1990 as part of the sales staff at (formerly Clear Channel now) iHeartMedia Wichita’s KRBB, before joining KSAS-TV as local sales manager. He will oversee adult contemporary KRBB “B-98”; KTHR “Wichita’s Alternative”; CHR KZCH “Wichita’s Hit Music Station”; and KZSN “Wichita’s New Country – The Bull.” Meanwhile, Saunders has been with iHeartMedia for more than three years, most recently in St. Louis as vice president of sales. Prior to that, he held management positions at CBS Radio, Emmis, and Sinclair. The iHeartMedia Springfield, Missouri cluster consists of adult contemporary KGBX “Lite Rock Favorites”; KGMY Fox Sports 1400″; country KSWF “The Wolf”; hot AC KTOZ “Alice@95.5”; and classic rock KXUS “US-97.”
‘Cecil the Lion’ Story Capturing Huge Interest as Talk Radio Topic. According to TALKERS research on the most-talked-about topics on news/talk radio each week, the story of Zimbabwean lion Cecil’s death at the hands of American trophy hunter Dr. Walter Palmer was the second most-talked-about topic on the airwaves last week, topped only by Donald Trump’s involvement the 2016 presidential race. According to TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey, “I do not remember any animal rights story capturing the public attention or generating anywhere near the amount of air time that this story has, and according to initial indications in today’s (8/3) Monday data, it is continuing into yet another week. Talk hosts are telling us that the heavy phones indicate huge public interest and emotion about this story and the many issues it raises. What makes it fascinating as a talk subject is the fact that callers – although mostly outraged by the dentist’s deed – reflect a variety of opinions on the subject. There are many that are outraged by the outrage! It is also prompting a large number of first-time callers.” Award-winning news broadcaster, Lori Lundin of WTOP, Washington, DC and the Washington Examiner – who is also an animal rights issue journalist — says the issue will likely prove to have been the “straw” triggering a historical tipping point in the public’s awareness and concern for the plight of animal suffering at the hands of human beings. Lundin hosts an experimental radio show on TalkersRadio titled “Vox Animali” that focuses exclusively on the subject of animal rights. To hear a conversation between Lori Lundin and TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison about this, please click
Odds & Sods. Greenville, South Carolina news/talker WYRD-FM “106.3 WORD” is announcing election season programming to air later this week. The Entercom station’s afternoon host Bob McLain and news director Lee
Rogers will host a debate for the Greenville City District 1 Seat this Friday, August 7 from 6:00 pm to 6:30 pm. Also, the station is presenting its own pre-debate program ahead of the first GOP primary debate from Cleveland on Thursday, August 6. The program will be hosted by station personality Tara Servatius. Then at 9:00 pm, while the station is airing audio from the debate, Servatius will be joined by 
McLain and midday personality Vince Coakley for an “Online Debate Party” where listeners can comment about what’s taking place in the debate via Facebook…..WOR, New York morning show co-host Len Berman recently made one of his regular appearances on NBC’s “Today” show to present his “Spanning the World” segment – a feature he’s been hosting for more than 20 years. This time, he brought a video crew with him to make a behind-the-scenes at 30 Rock video for the WOR website. You can see it here. Berman has been co-hosting the WOR morning show with Todd Schnitt since late January.
Jim Bohannon Helps WTAD, Quincy, Illinois Celebrate 90th Anniversary. WTAD in Quincy, Illinois is one of the oldest radio stations in the Midwest and it celebrated its 90th anniversary over the weekend. Westwood One personality Jim Bohannon served as the keynote speaker for the station’s celebration that included an on-air retrospective, followed by an evening affair with a crowd of more than 200 former station staffers, clients, friends, family, and listeners. Bohannon and comedian Tim Slagle regaled the guests at Quincy’s State Room. In addition, Bohannon (left) and his wife Annabelle (right) visited the station’s weekend news anchor Kevin Payne (center), who is rehabbing after a severe auto accident several months ago.
Thursday, January 15, 2015
WGN Makes it Official: Roe Conn to PM Drive. Thanks to Chicago media writer Robert Feder, the arrival of longtime, former WLS-AM personality Roe Conn to the afternoon drive daypart at Tribune Media’s news/talk WGN is not a surprise – Feder broke the news last week. But now, the company officially announces Conn will move into PM drive and bump Bill Leff and Wendy Snyder to late mornings with John Williams leaving that daypart and 
being featured as part of WGN’s Saturday programming. Williams also hosts a daily show at CBS RADIO’s WCCO, Minneapolis and had been doing double duty. The changes take effect on January 26. WGN Radio VP of content and programming Todd Manley says, “Roe craves what’s behind the curtain of breaking news. He’s a master of investigative conversation, so you’ll learn and you’ll laugh.” WGN-TV meteorologist Tom Skilling and news anchor Mark Supplesa will be regulars on Conn’s program. Manley adds, “We’re building an even stronger bridge between our radio journalists at the Tribune Tower and the incomparable newsroom at WGN-TV.” Regarding the new Saturday programming, Manley says a Saturday edition of “The Business Lunch” with host Steve Bertrand will follow the Kathy & Judy show from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm. “The World of John Williams” will air from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm and will integrate with mobile app urVibe, a news-polling social platform that he developed. Sports talk show “The Beat,” with hosts Jarrett Payton, Connor McKnight and Adam Hoge, will air from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
USA Radio Networks Adds Late Night Show. Soon to air in the 12:00 midnight to 3:00 am ET slot on USA Radio Networks is “The Real Side Radio Show with Joe Messina.” USA Radio Networks says, “Research reveals a growing number of workers are clocking in for the graveyard shift. Once reserved for blue-color workers, there are now a significantly increasing number of white-collar employees working evenings or nights.” Tim Maranville is chief content officer at USA Radio Networks’ parent company Cross Platform Media Group. He says, “Now second and third shifters can continue a live engaging conversation about America with Joe Messina’s ‘The Real Side.’ They deserve a straight shooter like Joe.” Cross Platform CEO Sam Hassell adds, “Joe is a tremendous asset to our expanding platform of programs. Overnights is a significantly under served time period for live national content. Another win for our affiliate and sponsorship partners.”
Beasley Modifies Corporate Name for Radio Group. In a move that the company says reflects “the broad and expansive reach of on-air, digital and collateral radio products that are available to Beasley’s listeners and advertisers,” Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc. reports that the various entities that previously held the company’s portfolio of 53 radio stations in 12 markets now become Beasley Media Group. The publicly traded parent company, headquartered in Naples, Florida, remains Beasley Broadcast Group, Inc. and continues to trade as “BBGI” on NASDAQ.
WEEI, Boston Rewards Dale Arnold with New Contract. Longtime Boston sports media figure Dale Arnold – sometimes criticized for being stodgy and “old school” – assumed the afternoon drive co-host slot alongside Michael Holley last spring and was told if he helped bring the ratings up in the daypart, he’d get a new deal. Today, Entercom announces that after 10 months on WEEI in afternoons, “ratings are up 59% with WEEI’s target audience of Men 25-to-54, and their program routinely ranks in the top three, up from sixth place last winter.” So the company is signing Arnold to a new contract. WEEI brand manager Kevin Graham says, “Dale Arnold has one of the most complete and diverse sports resumes in Boston broadcast history. He is the only person to have done play-by-play for the Patriots, Red Sox, Bruins, Celtics and Revolution in addition to having called college football, basketball and hockey. Most importantly, Dale’s name is synonymous with class and character, and the impact he’s made since returning full time is undeniable.”
Sabo: The Lessons of Lowell Bud Paxson. Media consultant Walter Sabo worked with Lowell Bud Paxson – the founder of the Home Shopping Network – who died earlier this week. In a column published recently, Sabo relates some of the media lessons he learned from working with Paxson and observing his operation. While Paxson was better known for his creation of the Home Shopping Network and Pax TV, Paxson owned radio stations during his career. Flying in the face of convention and trusting one’s instincts are two of the character traits Paxson had. Read more from Walter Sabo about what radio operators can take away from the life and legacy of Lowell Bud Paxson here.
Odds & Sods. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti is in the hot seat today as he appears on all-news KNX, Los Angeles’ “Ask the Mayor” program airing at 10:00 am PT. KNX anchor Tom Haule and chief investigative reporter Charles Feldman will co-host the program and listeners are invited to call or Tweet questions. Topics to be discussed include: the city’s crime rate, the mayor’s agenda for the New Year, safety at LAX, Barbara Boxer’s U.S. Senate seat and the
city’s preparedness for a terrorist attack…..Glimmerglass Radio – which bills itself as “the only green living talk radio station in America” – marks its one-year anniversary in business and says it has completed its programming lineup of 54 radio programs dedicated to news and information related to all things green. John Kosmer founded the Upstate New York-based digital station “to meet the rising interest in energy, the environment and healthy lifestyles.”…..Basketball legend Oscar Robertson will host a special Martin Luther King Jr. Day program on SiriusXM’s NBA Radio channel on Monday. The hour-long program will be co-hosted by SiriusXM’s Jason Jackson during which Robertson will share his experiences in the civil rights struggle and discuss what Dr. King’s legacy has meant to players of his era as well as those in today’s NBA…..Yahoo! Sports Radio will be part of the media mayhem that leads up to the NFL’s Super Bowl this year. The network will broadcast 17 hours daily from Glendale, Arizona including the Steve Czaban, Travis Rodgers, “Prime Cut with Sean Salisbury and John Granato,” “Sports X Radio” shows plus a special weekday series of “Talk of Fame.”…..Westwood One Sports continues its broadcast coverage of the NFL postseason with broadcasts of this weekend’s NFC and AFC Conference Championship games.
SRN’s Bill Bennett Addresses Idaho Legislature. Pictured here with Idaho Governor Butch Otter (left) is Salem Radio Network personality and former U.S. Secretary of Education Bill Bennett (right). Bennett, who hosts the “Morning in America” program, spoke before the Idaho legislature on the topic of education, commending the station on its education program and encouraging lawmakers to “provide more and better STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) curriculum in the state’s schools.”
Charlie Hebdo Aftermath/Islamic Extremists, ISIS Syria Strikes/Boko Haram Violence in Africa, Obama Immigration Policy, Boehner Floor Speech Rips Obama, 2016 Presidential Prospects, Plummeting Oil Prices/World Financial Markets Activity, and NFL Playoffs Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/14). The aftermath of the deadly assault on Parisian magazine Charlie Hebdo and the greater topic of violent Islamic extremists; the ISIS strikes in Syria and the deadly assaults in Africa at the hands of Boko Haram; the immigration reform policy of the Obama Administration; House Speaker John Boehner’s floor speech criticizing President Obama’s policies; potential GOP candidates for president in 2016 including Mitt Romney, Rand Paul, Scott Walker, Chris Christie, and Rick Santorum; falling oil prices and the effects on the world’s financial markets; and this weekend’s NFL conference championships were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Friday, August 1, 2014
Jason Lewis Quits Radio On Air. The Genesis Communications Network-syndicated talk show host abruptly quit his radio program some 24 minutes into his Thursday evening show Tweeting, “Today I left the radio biz for something better.” The Pioneer Press reports Jason Lewis told Clear Channel Minneapolis president and market manager Mike Crusham he intended to retire on August 1 (Lewis’ show was based out of KTLK, Minneapolis). “He told me two months ago he intended to retire August 1. He decided not to go public with it until today. I think he is serious about it. I hope he is not. He is one of the best talk show hosts I have ever worked with or listened to.” Lewis posted a video at Galt.io – his new venture – that explains his Ayn Randian views on government and society. You can view that here.
WSCR, Chicago’s Dan McNeil on the Ropes? As reported by Chicago media writer Robert Feder, WSCR, Chicago sports talk personality Dan McNeil – off of his midday show now for the past eight weeks while in what’s assumed are contract negotiations – and his superiors at the CBS RADIO station are preparing for his permanent departure. CBS Chicago SVP and market manager Rod Zimmerman tells Feder the two sides have been communicating but talks appear to be all but exhausted and the sense is that the two are not finding mutual ground. McNeil reportedly wants a pay increase from about $300,000 per year to $500,000 and he wants to move to afternoon drive and Feder reports Zimmerman is not amenable to either. Read Feder’s column here.
Talkers New York 2014 Videos Being Posted. Up Today: “Howard B. Price: Being Prepared for Emergencies.” Today (8/1) marks the 14th and concluding business day of TALKERS magazine’s video posting of speeches, sessions and presentations made during last June’s 17th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest-running and most important national convention – Talkers New York 2014. The presentation of these informative and historic recordings is sponsored by WYD Media Sales, LLC., the rep firm recently launched by Ron Hartenbaum and headed by John Murphy, that specializes in the advertising sales of spoken-word media on all popular platforms. The worldwide showing of these very special videos continues today with a very special presentation by Howard B. Price, director/business continuity, ABC Radio News, titled “It’s Not IF, But WHEN: Preparing Your Station or Network for Emergent Events, Large or Small.” Price cites a set of real life examples of what can happen to broadcasting facilities in
terms of invasions by demented listeners or local disasters – natural and otherwise — that impair their ability to broadcast and threaten the lives and well-being of the local population. He goes on to offer a detailed explanation of key steps that should be taken in advance of such events. Price is introduced by national syndicated talk star Doug Stephan who says that he would expect and hope to be pre-empted by his affiliates if they were faced with a local life-threatening calamity. He would even be “embarrassed” to be on the air during such an event and coming across as being oblivious to it. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison says, “Howard B. Price is, indeed, an industry hero. His presentation, that concluded our conference on a compelling note, is chock-full of truths and valuable information that address the very heart and soul of our roles as broadcasters. We didn’t catch some of the images of his accompanying power point presentation in our one-camera shoot – but with a speaker the caliber of Price at the helm, absolutely none of the vital information was lost.” To view Howard B. Price’s address, please click here. The Talkers New York 2014 conference videos were recorded by Art Vuolo. They will remain posted through the remainder of 2014.
Odds & Sods. Southern California sports media personality Lee “Hacksaw” Hamilton exits Broadcast Corporation of the Americas-operated XEPRS, San Diego “The Mighty 1090” where he’d been co-hosting the Padres pre-game show. Hamilton had been in morning drive at the station until this past January. He’s now operating his own eponymous website and seeking his next opportunity…..Former Minnesota Governor (and radio talk show host) Jesse Ventura debuts his “We the People with Jesse Ventura” podcast on Adam Carolla’s Carolla Digital platform. The weekly podcast will also be available via iTunes…..The on-air lineup for coverage of Houston Texans football on sports talk KILT-AM (and on sister country KILT-FM) is set as Marc Vandermeer and Andre Ware will handle the play-by-play. KILT-AM personality Rich Lord will host the pre-game show with John Lopez and former Texan Seth Payne. KILT-AM personality Sean Pendergast, Mike Meltser and Ted Johnson host the post-game show and crosstown KGOW host John Harris joins the radio network for sideline reporter work…..Westwood One brings Jason Benetti aboard as a college football play-by-play announcer. His first game will be the network’s coverage of the Wisconsin vs LSU game on August 30. Benetti most recently was media director and play-by-play announcer for the Syracuse Chiefs minor league franchise.
TALKERS Weekly Affiliate Roundup. New affiliate stations for the WYM Media-produced Leslie Marshall program include KTNF, Minneapolis; KTOX, Needles, California; WKBZ and WTKG, Grand Rapids; KNFO, Denver; KVOT, Taos, New Mexico; KTRC, Santa Fe, New Mexico; WNYY, Syracuse; and WHMP, Northampton, Massachusetts…..Nationally syndicated home improvement show “The Money Pit” with Tom Kraeutler and Leslie Segrete is added to the program schedule at WOBM, Lakewood Township and WADB, Asbury Park, New Jersey; KARN-FM, Little Rock; and KRCN, Denver-Longmont…..The “Racing to Success Minute” feature with host Nadine Lajoie is added to the “Mind Your Own Business Radio Show” WLOB, Portland, Maine.
Obama Impeachment Chatter Tops Talkers TenTM for Week of July 28-August 1. The talk about GOP leaders pushing for impeachment of President Obama and the Democrats’ use of the matter as a fundraising tool was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio during the week. At #2 was the U.S. House’s vote to authorize a lawsuit against President Obama for unconstitutional action. Following at #3 was the ongoing Gaza Strip violence and at #4 was the U.S. immigration policy and the border crisis in the Southwest. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. View this week’s entire chart here.
Protect Your Rights with the Help of the EFF
By Michael W. Dean
The Freedom Feens
Genesis Communications Network
Co-Host
CASPER — The Electronic Frontier Foundation, or EFF, is a non-profit that has taken to the courts to fight the good fight in the digital world since 1990. They’ve initiated legal challenges against the NSA’s warrantless wiretapping. They’ve filed a Petition for Inter Partes Review challenging a patent that a so-called “patent troll” has asserted against podcasters such as Adam Carolla. This patent troll has sent demands for cash to many podcasters and has sued NBC, CBS, Fox, and the HowStuffWorks podcast. The outcome of that case probably affects you, if you put up archives as a podcast, or ever plan to.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation has fought to keep tracking software out of your phone. They’ve fought for open access to what the government is doing behind your back. They’ve fought for Fair Use of images on websites (something that absolutely helps broadcasters and news sites). They have fought literally thousands of other things that need fighting. They’ve been protecting the Internet since before most people had heard of the Internet. So they’re friends of anyone planning to make a business shift from terrestrial radio to media on mobile devices. That’s a shift that everyone in radio should be anticipating, or at least looking at.
EFF is the premiere advocate for digital rights. They have done so much good it’s impossible to list it all here. We encourage you to check out their website to see for yourself.
https://www.eff.org/
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Boston Shocker: Jason Wolfe To Exit Entercom, Boston. Twenty-two years ago, a then 24-year-old Jason Wolfe joined WEEI-AM, Boston’s first fulltime sports operation. As the greater-Boston native (Sharon, Massachusetts) writes today on his Facebook page, he “could not have been more excited” to work “on the blank canvas” he had in front of him. It was announced today that the vice president of programming and operations of Entercom, Boston sports WEEI AM & FM and talk WRKO is leaving the company. Entercom, Boston vice president/market manager Jeff Brown states that Wolfe not only “defined sports talk radio in Boston, but nationally as well,” adding, “There are very few people who have influenced an industry like Jason has. From his work with the Jimmy Fund [a charity that supports adult and pediatric cancer care/research at Boston’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute] and the Red Sox‘s historic championship run to WRKO’s engagement with politics, Jason’s behind-the-scenes work has made an impact few people will ever understand.” Syracuse University alum Wolfe reflects that his involvement in WEEI’s growth “has been a tremendous honor. WEEI went from a single radio station to a regional sports network and added a world-class digital platform. Today, it is one of the biggest radio brands in any format, anywhere in the country.” Wolfe notes that four-time Marconi Award-winner WEEI was, “#1 for six straight years through the fall of 2008.” Boston’s competitive radio landscape changed four years ago though when CBS Radio introduced WBZ-FM as “The Sports Hub,” giving WEEI a strong head-to-head challenger. Changes have followed at WEEI, including the recent departure of longtime afternoon drive co-host Glenn Ordway. In the 22 years Wolfe spent at WEEI, he chronicles that, “The Red Sox won two World Series; the Patriots won three Super Bowls and went to two others; the Celtics won one championship and went to a second NBA Final; and the Bruins won a Stanley Cup and returned to the Final this season.” Regarding his farewell from Entercom, a graciously philosophical Wolfe acknowledges on Facebook that, “This is a business and companies are always looking ahead to decide what’s best for their future. Entercom has an obligation to do what is in [its] best interest. I respect and accept that. I am thankful to everyone at Entercom for all they have done to support me. I wish them all the best in the future. It’s now time for me to move on and begin the next chapter of my career.” Word regarding a successor to Wolfe is expected to be announced soon.
TALKERS Magazine Set to Launch TalkersRadio on Tuesday September 10. After several months of technical testing and initial talent scouting, TALKERS magazine announces that it will be officially launching its experimental online talk radio station initiative – TalkersRadio – on Tuesday September 10. TalkersRadio is a 24/7/365 streaming spoken-word internet radio station that will be available to listeners on the trade publication’s website, www.talkers.com as well as TuneIn and will feature a unique brand of stationality that, as publisher Michael Harrison describes, “views the world through the lens of the talk media industry and expresses a love of the art of the medium, its participants and its listeners for their own sake.” TalkersRadio’s mission will be to serve as 1) a laboratory for interesting new concepts and talent in talk; 2) a farm system to help develop deserving up-and-comers; 3) a real-time stage for talent to audition for specific jobs and opportunities; 4) a platform for “bridge shows” – a new device by which suddenly terminated AM/FM talk show hosts can do a series of final shows to say goodbye to their listeners and/or announce their upcoming plans within a radio show context; 5) a vehicle for “orphan shows” – programs that do not conveniently fit into prevailing AM/FM station format categories; 6) a showcase for new and adventurous programming concepts and ideas; and 7) a medium to exclusively broadcast TALKERS magazine live events. During the test period, TalkersRadio successfully broadcasted the entire Talkers New York 2013 live in June as well as “Talk Radio Day at the United Nations.” TalkersRadio will also carry several regularly scheduled programs to give it, as Harrison describes, “the feel and consistency” of a real radio station…. But Harrison adds, “It won’t get hung up on its lineup. These regularly scheduled shows will be more like ‘limited engagement’ runs of a show at a theater than forever-entities to which the station will be married and by which it will be defined.” Some of these will be talk shows about the industry but most will just be talk shows about life and its endless spectrum of topics in general. “The key,” according to Harrison, “is most of the programming will be of the types that are unavailable elsewhere…or at least YET unavailable. We most certainly want to get things rolling that will then go on to much bigger platforms in the business.” TalkersRadio has been in development for the past year and a half and is a joint project between TALKERS parent company Talk Media, Inc. and Westborough, Massachusetts-based communications firm Backbone Networks Corporation. It is featuring the leading-edge concept in broadcasting technology developed by Backbone (the system currently in place at the recently-launched Boston Herald Radio) that makes it extremely convenient and affordable for talk show hosts and organizations looking to “set up their own online sticks” to do a fully produced program – with live callers and guests – from an amazingly simple technical remote and portable set up. According to Harrison, “Our partners at Backbone are technical wizards. Having them power this operation gives us the flexibility and means to really make a significant contribution to talk radio as both a cultural art form and a 21st century-rooted business — the ongoing mission of TALKERS magazine.” Look for information about the initial programming set for TalkersRadio being posted on Talkers.com this week and next beginning with the following story.
Noted Pop Music Producer and Talk Show Maverick Robbie Student Signs on to Host Midday Show on TalkersRadio. As TalkersRadio prepares its official launch on Tuesday September 10, the experimental internet talk station’s general manager David Bernstein announces the signing of emerging talk radio personality Robbie Student to serve as host of his own charter talk show on the station which will air live weekday afternoons between 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm ET. “Robbie Student” is the talk radio air name (although “Student” is his legitimate family name from an earlier generation) of noted record industry music producer and impresario Rob Stevens who, among his numerous credits, has executive produced (with Ms. Ono) all 10 of Yoko Ono’s recent number one hit singles in the burgeoning field of EDM (electronic dance music). Bernstein says, “In his ‘daytime’ gig as Rob Stevens, this amazingly interesting guy has worked with some of the biggest name artists in rock and pop including Red Hot Chili Peppers and other greats and brings a pop culture sensibility to news/talk radio with a level of comfort for which others have reached but few have grasped.” Frontier Fifty member Robbie Student came to the attention of Bernstein and TALKERS management last year while hosting a daily program on the fledgling internet stream of WOR, New York when it was still owned by Buckley Broadcasting. Bernstein says, “It was amazing – whenever this guy was on the WOR stream, the internet metrics took a huge jump. He consistently had more listeners online than some of the biggest players in AM/FM radio who were on at the same time. Things like that stand out. Most importantly, Robbie Student is just plain different. He brings a no-nonsense, everyman approach to the mic and talks with great intelligence and insight about everything from music, television and movies to independent politics, economics, parenting, education and psychology – all with an enlightening level of evolved consciousness. We are so pleased to let him run wild a couple of hours a day on this baby radio station and see where it goes.” Student has a degree in Philosophy from Columbia University and has done significant community work in his home-town New York City with youth basketball programs helping kids from diverse backgrounds reach their goals. More new signings for TalkersRadio will be announced tomorrow and next week. For more information about TalkersRadio call 413-565-5413. GM David Bernstein can be emailed at david@talkers.com.
Courtside Entertainment Group’s PodcastOne Links Up With Abacast. The objective is to have Abacast‘s Clarity Digital Radio System place customized commercials for PodcastOne clients in specific markets. Among other things, the system provides campaign management, audience metrics and delivery for live and on-demand digital audio programming. Courtside Entertainment Group chairman/chief executive officer Norm Pattiz remarks, “This is another example of taking advantage of the latest technology to 
provide services that advertisers expect. This is consistent with our promise to have the best-targeted ad solution in an industry poised for rapid growth.” Abacast’s integrated service will be released in the fourth quarter and chief executive officer Rob Green notes that his company is, “making a commitment to podcasting by extending the Clarity Digital Radio System to the podcasting market. We couldn’t be happier to be chosen by PodcastOne.” Introduced this past February, audio-on-demand PodcastOne hosts roughly 200 podcasts by, among others, Dr. Drew Pinsky, Jay Mohr, Adam Carolla, Steve Austin, Penn Jillette, Dennis Miller, Laura Ingraham, and Tom Green. Norm Pattiz will be a featured speaker at the forthcoming Talkers Los Angeles 2013 set for Thursday October 10. The event, open only to members of the working media, is nearing a sellout. For more information or to register, call 413-565-5413.
Sprint To Begin Installing NextRadio Application. It will transpire over the next few years and enables consumers to listen to local radio stations on their smartphones. Sprint‘s HTC One and HTC EVO 4G LTE models will be the first models with the app. NextRadio is Sprint’s smartphone app that delivers an interactive artist and ad experience to FM-enabled smartphones. Data for the application is supplied by TagStation, the cloud-based engine that offers stations the ability to upload branding images that display as default artwork in the NextRadio app, as well as call letters, format, station name, and slogan. Major and vocal proponent all along is Emmis chairman/chief executive officer Jeff Smulyan who declares the announcement is, “a credit to the entire radio industry, which has unified to make this happen. We set a new course as an industry, one that will bring exciting audience and advertiser engagement opportunities.” Emmis chief technology officer Paul Brenner is president of NextRadio, LLC and he explains that, “Whether the station is large market, medium market, small market, commercial or non-commercial, this free service will provide listeners with a visual radio listening experience. Radio stations no longer have to add the cost of internet streaming to get local FM radio on a mobile device.” Smulyan notes more than 1,500 stations signed up for TagStation’s free services; thousands more are expected following today’s news. Beasley, CBS Radio, Entercom, Greater Media, and Hubbard registered for additional services through TagStation. “Passionate, insightful vision of industry leaders like Jeff Smulyan helped to make this prospect a reality,” comments New Jersey Broadcasters Association president/chief executive officer Paul Rotella. “We will continue to support initiatives that promote the precious value of radio.” Also endorsing the concept of FM receivers in smartphones are The Radio Advertising Bureau and National Association of Broadcasters.
Is The Arbitron-Nielsen Transaction Hitting A Snag? The Federal Trade Commission reportedly wants more information before it decides whether to approve the $1.26 billion deal, whereby Nielsen would acquire Arbitron. It was believed the okay was further along in the process, however, The New York Post reports that the FTC is calling for additional particulars from television station owners affected by a potential Nielsen-Arbitron merger. Roughly two weeks ago, Nielsen officials felt that by the end of this month, they would have a good grasp of where the situation stood, but former New York assistant attorney general-antitrust lawyer Sally Hubbard tells The Post that, if the FTC is, “still currently talking to sources, it does make you wonder.” It was last December when Nielsen revealed it had signed a definitive agreement to acquire Arbitron for $48-per-share, however, the FTC several months later stymied the proposed union of the two ratings behemoths. On a call with investors, Nielsen chief executive officer David Calhoun said the company had complied with the FTC’s latest concern and he flatly states, “It is on them to come back to us.” Calhoun is optimistic this deal will be approved, in that, he says the companies operate in different media sectors. Once companies comply with such FTC requests, the commission has 30 days to complete its review and take action.
Arbitron Releases “Hispanic Radio Today 2013.” Approximately 95% of Hispanic consumers in the United States tune to the radio in an average week and Arbitron summarizes those listening habits throughout a comprehensive 84-page overview. Numerous colorful charts, graphs, and tables are featured, with a ranking of formats by Hispanic audience share especially interesting. Stats are based on Hispanic audience share, Monday-Sunday, 6:00 am – midnight, AQH Hispanic Persons 12+, from spring 2012. As one might expect regional Mexican is a dominant #1 (19.2%) followed by Spanish Contemporary (10.7%). Three English-language music formats are next: CHR (9.8%), rhythmic CHR (7.7%); and adult contemporary (6.1%). Spanish adult hits is #6 (5.9%), but then come hot AC (4.0%); country (3.5%); classic hits (3.5%); and news-talk (3.3%) rounds out the top ten. The remaining seven formats in this particular breakout are: Spanish tropical (3.1%); classic rock (2.2%); Spanish news-talk (1.9%); Spanish variety (1.0%); Spanish religious (.9%); Tejano (.9%); and Spanish sports (.3%). In addition to Arbitron audience data for each format, “Hispanic Radio Today 2013” features Scarborough consumer profiles. The full study is available exclusively to Arbitron clients.
Buckley Brings in Ray as California Marketing Manager. It is a new position for Buckley Radio‘s California-based properties. Working from Fresno at the company’s rhythmic CHR KSEQ “Q 97,” Liz Ray will help oversee sales and marketing for sibling stations in Monterey, Bakersfield, and Merced. Buckley Radio president Joe Bilotta comments, “We are looking to partner with the advertising community in a joint effort to insure a respectable return-on-investment when they work with us. Liz will greatly assist and direct these efforts.” Executive vice president – west coast Kathy Baker remarks, “Liz Ray has an extensive 27-year sales, sales management background in the broadcasting industry and she has an outstanding reputation. We are thrilled to have her on-board.” Most recently, Ray was general sales manager of Fresno adult contemporary KJWL and that market’s KYNO-AM, when it was talk. She previously was local sales manager for the Fresno Bee.
Clear Channel Moves Malik From San Antonio To Houston as VP/Sales. Transitioning from her role as president of the company’s cluster of stations in its San Antonio home base, Breeanna Malik becomes vice president of sales for the six stations that comprise Clear Channel, Houston. Clear Channel senior vice president of operations Kelly Kibler Owens observes, “Houston is a thriving market. Breeanna brings unique strategic insight, while also keeping many of her client relationships intact within Texas.” Clear Channel, Houston president/market manager Eddie Martiny notes, “Breeanna’s performance in San Antonio has been absolutely outstanding and we are excited to have her lead our sales efforts in Houston.” Malik comments that her “true passion is leading sales organizations” and “building new client partnerships through Clear Channel’s integrated multi-platform programs.” Prior to becoming Clear Channel, San Antonio market president last October, Malik was director of sales and general sales manager there.
Rotoworld Becomes NBC Sports Radio’s Fantasy Sports Information Brand. Fantasy sports participation has grown more than 60% in the past four years. Estimates are that more than 35 million people in the United States and Canada actively engage in some form of this activity. The Rotoword-NBC Sports Radio union brings player updates and information, live interviews, and on-demand programming to rabid fantasy sports fans. On-demand specialty shows will be hosted by NBC Sports Radio (a joint venture between NBC Sports Group and Dial 
Global) anchor/Rotoworld contributor Kay Adams, who appears weekly on NBC Sports Network’s “Fantasy Football Live – Thursday Night.” In addition to being Dial Global’s executive vice president/general manager sports programming, Chris Corcoran is a fantasy fan/player and he comments, “Rotoworld has always been my go-to fantasy source for news and information – I couldn’t be more excited to welcome this partnership. Our exclusive programming will help feed this extremely loyal fantasy fan base.” NBC Sports Digital/Rotoworld director of fantasy content Brett Vandermark remarks, “This is a natural extension for Rotoworld, as sports radio has long been a popular platform for fantasy sports players. This agreement allows fantasy players to access Rotoworld on virtually every platform.” Dial Global chief executive officer Paul Caine adds, “This [Rotoworld] partnership elevates our digital presence to a whole new level.” Programming begins the week after next (8/26). It will include interviews on NBC Sports Radio throughout the NFL season with Rotoworld writers and talent. Two 60-minute NFL-related fantasy shows per week (Tuesdays and Fridays) will be available on the NBC Sports Radio on-demand network.
Sun To Serve As CNN en Espanol Radio and Fox Deportes Radio’s Ad Sales Rep. The national sales representation agreement between Sun Broadcast Group and Stardome Radio Networks commences immediately; partnership between Stardome and new generation national broadcast network Sun expands Spanish products offered by Sun’s Spanish Language Division, Sun Latino. According to Sun’s chief executive officer Jason Bailey, SBG’s goal has “always been to be the leader in offering top quality programming” to its affiliate and agency partners. “This partnership with Stardome and the addition of CNN en Espanol Radio and Fox Deportes Radio to our sales lineup are clear examples of our continued commitment to the powerful U.S. 
Hispanic market.” Stardome Radio Networks managing director/chief executive officer Anthony Hernandez comments, “The Sun Broadcast Group team has demonstrated that they represent a growing trend of highly specialized network advertising sellers. The selection of Sun Broadcast Group to focus on selling U.S. ad sales inventory was a strategic move to focus and pair our network radio sales products with specific partners with specialized areas of proficiency.”
South Carolina Broadcasters Association Bestows Show of the Year STAR Award to “Meet Me at the Diner.” Hosted by WCRS-AM, Greenwood, South Carolina owner Anne Eller, the daily 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm program features interviews with personalities having local, statewide, or national interest. Victors were announced at a combination dinner/presentation ceremony this past Saturday (8/10) at Columbia’s Metropolitan Convention Center. This was WCRS’ first-ever entry; no first timer had won the category before. In addition to owning WCRS-AM and doing the daily “Meet Me at the Diner” program, Eller is a regular South Carolina Radio News contributor.
Talkers Los Angeles 2013 Nearing Sellout – More Speakers Named to Agenda. The third annual installment of TALKERS magazine’s West Coast convention set for Thursday, October 10 is shaping up to be a blockbuster. The gathering is already closing in on being an advance sellout some seven weeks before the event so it is advisable for media professionals interested in attending to register now. It is again being presented in association with the Los Angeles Press Club and held at the historic Steve Allen Theater on Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm. TALKERS VP/executive editor Kevin Casey states, “We are very enthusiastic about the growth and positive impact of this Southern California gathering. It started out three years ago as an experimental LA regional get-together and blossomed into an exciting companion to our big New York convention.” The event – open only to members of the working media – will feature a power-packed day of panel discussions, keynote addresses, special presentations, technology and services exhibits, tremendous networking opportunities and abundant food and refreshments lavishly catered by the Original Brooklyn Water Bagel Company (lunch is sponsored by Premiere Networks and Fox News Channel star Sean Hannity who will address the attendees from New York). Speakers already set now include (in alphabetical order): David Bernstein, GM, TalkersRadio; Robin Bertolucci, PD, KFI, Los Angeles; Phil Boyce, VP spoken word format, Salem Communications; Kevin Casey, VP/executive editor, TALKERS; Bill Carroll, host, KFI, Los Angeles; Heather Cohen, EVP, The Weiss Agency; Holland Cooke, radio consultant; Skip Essick, PD, KMJ-AM/FM, Fresno; Erica Farber,CEO/president, RAB; Michael Harrison, publisher, TALKERS; Ron Hartenbaum, president, WYD/WYM Media; Phil Hendrie, WYD Media; Rusty Humphries, host, Talk Radio Network; Frank Kramer, morning co-host (Heidi & Frank), KLOS, Los Angeles/founder of Toad Hop Network; Mike Kinosian, managing editor, TALKERS; Kraig Kitchin, CEO, Sound Mind, LLC; Tom Leykis, president, The New Normal; Andy Ludlum, director of news programming, KNX/KFWB, Los Angeles; Leslie Marshall, WYM Management; Don Martin, senior VP sports programming, Fox Sports Radio/Clear Channel Media and Entertainment; Kevin McCullough, CEO, XtreMedia; Mike McVay, senior VP programming, Cumulus Media; Harvey Nagler, VP, CBS Radio News; Norm Pattiz, CEO, Courtside Entertainment/Podcast One; Chris Pendl, creative director, Bonneville Seattle; Walter Sabo, CEO, Sabo Media; Eric Stanger, VP of operations and affiliate marketing, The Sean Hannity Show/Premiere Networks; Alan Stock, host, KDWN, Las Vegas; Chuck Tyler, PD, KRLA/KKLA, Los Angeles; Paul Vandenburgh, president/GM/host, WGDJ, Albany; Bill White, PD, KQTH-FM/KFFN-AM/FM, Tucson and Michael Zwerling, owner, KSCO, Santa Cruz with many more and complete agenda details to be announced in the coming days. The latest broadcasting equipment and remote gear will be on display as presented by Broadcasters General Store and Comrex Corporation. Registrations – $149 per person – can only be taken over the phone and, AGAIN the event is approaching a very early sellout which is projected to happen within about a week. So don’t wait – avoid being shut out. For sponsorship information or to register, call 413-565-5413.
AFFILIATE ROUNDUP. Free Talk Live Adds WCKG, Chicago to Affiliate Roster. Free Talk Live (FTL) is now heard live every weeknight on Chicago’s WCKG-AM. FTL co-hosts Ian Freeman and Mark Edge tell TALKERS, “It’s a major addition to our affiliate lineup and it’s great to be on live in such a big market. Thanks to station manager Matt Dubiel for making it happen. We’re excited!” That along with several other new stations brings the maverick show out of New Hampshire that has become a staple of the TALKERS Heavy Hundred up to a total of 125. New ones include: WBAT-AM, Marion, IN; KENT-AM, Parowan, UT; WRSB-AM, Canandaigua, NY; WASB-AM, Bridgeport, NY, W286AE-FM, Fairport, NY, and WNZS-AM, Bangor, ME. Also, existing affiliate WAVH-FM, Mobile, AL has expanded FTL to weeknight overnights and existing affiliate WGAN-AM, Portland, ME has added a simulcast on WMGX-HD2.
Friday, May 31, 2013
Cumulus Media Raises Close to $4 Million for Oklahoma Tornado Relief. This number could keep changing as more pledges come in after the Wednesday effort that saw all 525 Cumulus Media-owned stations soliciting funds for tornado relief via the United Way of Oklahoma City that so far has totaled $3.77 million. Cumulus SVP of programming Mike McVay reports the company’s 84 country outlets aired a special, one-hour edition of “American Country Countdown” hosted by Kix Brooks live from the “Healing in the Heartland” concert on Wednesday evening that aired on NBC-TV. Numbers aren’t final for pledges received during the televised concert fundraiser but are reported to be in the $6 million range.
Emergency Alert for Cell Phones PSA Violates FCC Regulations. TALKERS columnist and broadcast engineer Tom Ray of Tom Ray Consulting reports a public service announcement touting emergency alerts sent to cell phones 
that some stations may be airing violates FCC regulations. Ray tells TALKERS, “A PSA was released today about the emergency alerts you can receive on your cell phone. It uses the EAS two-tone alert. Airing this PSA would be a blatant violation of FCC regulation 47CFR11.45 which specifically prohibits the use of the EAS code bursts or the two-tone alert signal unless they are transmitted as part of an actual EAS alert or EAS test. And according to the Ad Council website…this PSA is sponsored by FEMA. Shame on them! They should know better.” Ray advises stations not to air the PSA.
Patent Holder Personal Audio Targets Podcasters; EFF Takes ‘Patent Troll’ Fight to U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. If you’re a podcaster and you’ve been approached by a company called Personal Audio claiming you’re using patented technology and you have to pay up, you’re not alone. According to the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), podcasters including Adam Carolla and “How Stuff Works” have been “shaken down” by Personal Audio which claims it holds a patent on technology used by podcasters. The EFF is fighting back, saying it is “is mounting a new, focused campaign to bust the dangerous patent” the company has been employing against end users – including podcasters. 
Here’s what EFF says: “Claiming it owns the patent that broadly covers podcasting technology, Personal Audio is the classic example of a patent troll that neither makes nor sells anything, but uses its patent as a weapon to threaten lawsuits and extort settlement fees.” EFF staff attorney Julie Samuels says, “Patent trolls have been wreaking havoc on innovative companies for some time now. But this particular breed of troll — targeting end users, small businesses, startups, and even individuals like podcasters for simply using everyday products — is a disturbing new threat.” Wondering what part of the process on which this company claims to hold the patent? The TALKERS legal department tells us that the patent generally relates to a system whereby a server provides media content to client devices over the internet. On the server, the provider maintains a ‘compilation file,’ which is essentially a list of available media files. The compilation file generally includes the URL for each available media file in a series and may also include descriptive text. This compilation file may be static, such as a simple web page with links to each available file to which new files are added, or may be customized for a particular user, perhaps only showing them content from feeds to which they have subscribed. The claim that has been asserted against podcasters to date is called Claim 31. The EFF goes on to say, “As with so many patent troll cases, the troll is asking for money despite having contributed nothing to the industry. By its own admission, Personal Audio tried and failed at its attempt to make an audio player. Having failed at actually making something, it became a shell company that does nothing but sue on its patents. And now it wants a handout from those who worked hard to create popular podcasts.” EFF is organizing a Help Save Podcasting campaign. You can find that information here.
Former KQRS, Minneapolis Personality Michael Gelfand Sues MetLife and Cumulus Media Over Disability Claim. Michael Gelfand was formerly part of the Tom Barnard morning show on Cumulus Media’s classic rock KQRS, Minneapolis. He exited the station after his medical condition made it impossible to function and now he’s suing Metropolitan Life Insurance Company and Cumulus Media for long term disability benefits. Gelfand suffers from delayed sleep-phase syndrome – a condition that throws off the body’s circadian rhythm – and prevents him from functioning well or maintaining physical health working the early morning drive shift. In brief, MetLife denied the claim and Gelfand is suing both companies seeking retroactive long term disability benefits.
Inga Barks Exits KMJ-AM, Fresno. Bakersfield-based talk show host Inga Barks recently joined the program schedule at Buckley Brodcasting’s KNZR, Bakersfield for the 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm program but she’s no longer with Peak Broadcasting’s KMJ-AM, Fresno where she’s been hosting a show since 2005. The Fresno Bee reports Peak management is not commenting on Barks’ exit but notes the station added Cumulus Media Networks’ Mark Levin show in place of it.
Gracie Award Winning Talk Host Advises Colleagues to Add Writing to their Communications Toolbox. WFAS, Westchester host Lisa Wexler says that writing op-ed pieces for newspapers is an excellent way for talk show hosts looking to expand their net and make a difference. In a piece posted today (5/31) Wexler says, “If you are going to be a thought leader, then simply speaking on the radio is not enough. The written word carries a different kind of weight. Radio is a rush — there is nothing like the spontaneity of an actual conversation, the nuance and humor of the human voice communicating through the airwaves to the lone listener on the other end. But radio is also ephemeral; despite podcasts and the ease of reaching audio files, people rarely re-listen to the same broadcast. They do, however, read an article more than once, and pass it on to friends. Your column has the potential to go viral in a way your radio show may not.” To read Lisa Wexler’s entire article, click here.
KFWB, Los Angeles Sports Anchor Bret Lewis Retires. Today is the last day at KFWB, Los Angeles for sports anchor Bret Lewis who is retiring from the station. The longtime Los Angeles broadcaster will be replaced by Bill Seward, currently afternoon sports anchor. Bob Harvey will assume Seward’s afternoon role. During his career, Lewis has served as a sports anchor on the TV side at KNBC-TV and KCBS-TV. He also hosted a talk show at crosstown KLAC.
KNTK, Lincoln Names John Gaskins Program Director. Home Field Communications announces “Gaskins and Stephens” show co-host John Gaskins is named program director for sports talk KNTK, Lincoln “93.7 The Ticket.” The station also fills its PM drive slot with former KCSP, Kansas City personality Mike Welch who will host his “Drop the Mike” beginning June 5.
TALKERS Weekly Affiliate Roundup. “Free Talk Live” hosted by Ian Freeman and Mark Edge adds new affiliates WPNN, Pensacola; KYRO, Troy, Missouri; and KCAA, Loma Linda, California…..Talk Radio Network-syndicated “Watchdog on Wall Street” with host Chris Markowski is added to the program lineup at WLEE, Richmond…..Cumulus Media Networks’ “Red Eye Radio” with Eric Harley and Gary McNamara reaches the 200-affiliate mark with the help of recent partners KTAR-FM, Phoenix; KBET, Las Vegas; WTMJ, Milwaukee; WFTL, West Palm Beach; and KJCE, Austin.
DOJ Investigation of Journalists Tops Talkers TenTM for Week of May 27-31. The Department of Justice’s investigation of journalists – from Fox News’ James Rosen to the Associated Press – and Attorney General Eric 
Holder’s request for an off-the-record meeting with news organizations was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio during the week. At #2 this week was the IRS’ targeting of conservative organizations seeking tax exempt status. Following at #3 was the rise in the number of Americans on disability and at #4 was the Chinese hacking of U.S. weapons systems. The Talkers TenTM is a chart of the top stories and people discussed on talk radio during the week, is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS and is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s entire chart here.
Melissa Etheridge Brandishes Her Gracie. Musician and radio show host Melissa Etheridge (r) is pictured here with Rory Kennedy (l) (who won for her documentary film “Ethel” about her mother) at the annual Gracie Awards Gala in Los Angeles where she won a Gracie Award for her nationally syndicated program, “The Melissa Etheridge Show.” Etheridge won in the Outstanding Talk Show – Entertainment/Information category. Etheridge says, “I have won Grammys and an Oscar, but there is something especially meaningful about being recognized with a Gracie. I love radio, and it’s important to me to bring the voices of women to our audiences, as they share their respective truths about life, love and family—and as I share the same with them. It’s also a great pleasure to provide a forum where we can connect with each other about the music that moves us. I’m honored that people are responding to the show across the country and I thank the AWM Foundation for this award.” Etheridge’s five-hour daily show is syndicated by Benztown.
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
PodcastOne to Distribute CBS Evening News. Norm Pattiz-founded Lauchpad Digital Media’s new PodcastOne.com enters into an agreement with CBS to present the “CBS Evening News with Scott Pelley” as a podcast available at the destination website. The PodcastOne.com site also features CBS products “CBS
Weekend Roundup,” “Face the Nation” and “60 Minutes.” PodcastOne.com launched in February and the company says it is “home to over 200 popular podcasts including Adam Carolla, Dennis Miller, Ron Paul, Penn Jillette, Laura Ingraham, Maria Menounos, Tom Green, Dr. Drew and many more.” On the deal with CBS, Pattiz states, “Anytime we can work with CBS Radio News on anything, we jump at it. Our relationship with them at Westwood One goes back over two decades and we’re delighted to be working with them now in the on-demand digital world.” CBS Radio News vice president Harvey Nagler says, “We are excited to work with Launchpad in expanding CBS Radio News’ on-demand audio offerings and making our newscasts available for audiences to enjoy whenever, wherever and however they like.”
Radio One Awards Bonuses to Founder Cathy Hughes and CEO Alfred Liggins. In a filing with the Securities Exchange Commission, Radio One announces bonuses of $1.5 million for company CEO Alfred Liggins and $500,000 for founder Cathy Hughes. The company’s compensation committee decided that 
Hughes’ involvement in sales activities of its One Solution division “resulted in significant advertising commitments and revenue generation.” For Liggins, the bonus was based upon the radio division’s 2012 performance. The committee decided that “the radio division had met its EBITDA plan for the calendar year 2012.” The committee also noted that Liggins’ involvement in TV One – which saw revenue up 8% and the division’s EBITDA increased to approximately $40 million – was also reason for the bonus.
Salem Communications Signs New Contract with CEO Ed Atsinger. The new contract for CEO Ed Atsinger to continue in that role with Salem through 2016 takes effect after his current deal ends on June 30. For the next three years, Atsinger will make base salaries of $925,000 in 2013-14, $950,000 in 2014-15, and $975,000 in 2015-16. That contract will expire on June 30 of 2016. As is usually the case with chief executive officers, Atsinger will be eligible for bonuses at the discretion of the board of directors.
Radio Ad Spending Up 3% Says Kantar Media; Network Radio Up 16%. The figures for ad spending across all media according to research from Kantar Media were recently released and, according to the company, radio ad spending was up 4% in the fourth quarter of 2012 and up 3% for the whole of 2012. For the year, local radio spending was flat; national spot radio was up 3% and network radio – despite a down fourth quarter (-2%) – was up 16%. National spot radio spending enjoyed a very good Q4 – up 8%. Kantar Media North America chief research officer Jon Swallen comments on ad spending across all media. “The advertising market has grown for three consecutive years and in 2012 it added more than $4 billion in spend, with the Summer Olympics and political advertising contributing about one-half of the gain. Large advertisers also played a significant role. After reducing their media budgets in 2011 as a precaution against slowing economic growth, the top 100 marketers reversed course in 2012 and invested more.”
On the Nashville Talk Radio Scene, Premiere Networks Begs to Differ. Last week TALKERS ran an item from WWTN, Nashville-based talk host Phil Valentine in which he claims to have the highest-cuming talk show in the market
based on the Arbitron Fall 2012 survey and beats Premiere Networks hosts Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity and Glenn Beck. Premiere tells TALKERS that, while technically that’s true, the claim is misleading. The company states, “Valentine has five more hours of programming per week than Rush Limbaugh or Sean Hannity, and 10 more hours of programming than Glenn Beck — a key factor in Cume calculations; Rush has a larger Average Quarter Hour, Share and TSL; Valentine is on the FM dial during PM Drive in his home market; not only are they in different dayparts, but the Avg. Weekly Cume for the market is also greater during PM Drive than it is for 11:00 am to 2:00 pm; the PUR is also greater.”
Talk Host Michael Graham Announces Digital Initiatives. Talk radio personality Michael Graham – who spent the past seven years hosting a show at Greater Media’s former news/talk WTKK, Boston – announces a new digital component to his brand to coincide with his recently announced Massachusetts-wide show heard on three Bay State signals. Graham says his show is now able to be heard online and via smartphones through an app available at his site MichaelGraham.com. That’s also where he’s operating his blog.
Michael Harrison Talks Candidly About Radio and its Future on WNYM (970 The Answer), New York. In an interview conducted by weekend talk show host Frank Morano (morning host Curtis Sliwa‘s executive producer) this past Saturday morning (3/9), TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison discusses his views on the state and future of AM/FM radio. In it Harrison states that the longevity of what is increasingly being marginalized as “terrestrial radio” will be determined by its broadcasters themselves and their dedication to preserving its legacy and pertinence to life in the 21st century. Harrison offers his unfiltered remedy for radio’s problems and offers a simple-but-powerful formula for its continued relevance. To hear Frank Morano’s interview with Michael Harrison click
Dr. Daliah Wachs Becomes a Pawn Star! Las Vegas-based medical doctor and nationally syndicated talk show host Daliah Wachs appeared on the March 11 edition of History Channel’s super-successful “Pawn Stars” show. She’s pictured here with the show’s Rick Harrison during a break in the shoot. During the program Daliah brought in an old pair of dental pliers used for tooth extraction and sold it for $170. Members of the TALKERS editorial board who saw the show last night raved that Daliah was “articulate, charming, and her adorable self.”
Breaking Bad at KKOB. Stars of the AMC hit series “Breaking Bad” visited Cumulus Media’s KKOB, Albuquerque – the city in which the quirky and compelling series is set – to discuss the show’s final season and much more. Pictured here are (from l-r): actor Bryan Cranston, who plays protagonist Walter White; actor Steven Michael Quezada, who plays DEA agent Steven Gomez; KKOB morning show host Bob Clark; and morning show producer Jeniffer Davis.
North Korea Threats, New York Soda Ban Stayed, Unemployed and Job Seekers Down, Papal Conclave, Washington Sequester Battle and Funding of ObamaCare Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/11). North Korea’s nuclear threats and dismissal of 1953 truce; New York Mayor Bloomberg’s sugary drinks ban hits judicial roadblock; unemployment figures down along with numbers of unemployed still seeking work; the search for a new Pope; the ongoing battle in Washington over the sequester; and Republican funding attacks on the Affordable Care Act were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Mohr Radio Dreams Come True
By Mike Kinosian
Talkers
Managing Editor/West Coast Bureau Chief
LOS ANGELES — Anyone connecting the dots to the impressive vitae and past history of one of America’s brightest comics/rock solid actor will not be the least bit astonished that agent “Bob Sugar” in the mid-1990s smash “Jerry Maguire” is on his way to establishing a potent presence in sports talk radio.
Second-year (2009-2010) plotline for CBS-TV’s “Gary Unmarried” called for its lead character to lessen his role as a housepainter as he transitioned to what he had always wanted to do – host a call-in sports radio program. “It is this crazy scenario that I actually wound up doing in real life what I was doing in a make belief sitcom,” remarks Jay Mohr, whose “Jay Mohr Sports” debuted January 2 on Fox Sports Radio.
Monday, October 29, 2012
Radio Stations Across the Northeast Totally Focused on Hurricane Sandy. Or at least radio stations with a shred of competitiveness, pride, community concern and a modicum of resources are focused on the storm and its impact on their listeners. Considering how much the consciousness of the radio broadcasting industry has been raised this past couple of years regarding the medium’s role in providing community support during natural disasters coupled with the amount of time the industry has had to prepare for this slow-developing storm, we can expect the next couple of days to be among modern radio’s finest hours. (Image courtesy NOAA)
New Jersey Broadcasters Association to Sandy: Bring it On! NJBA president Paul S. Rotella tells TALKERS that New Jersey broadcasters are prepared for the storm stating, “Are we ready? Of course; that’s because we usually stand ready, often prepared for anything—that’s what local radio is all about: being prepared, being nimble, and being informative, with real information our listeners need. It’s amazing how dedicated local broadcasters are, especially in New Jersey where local radio means so much to our state! We’ve been preparing since Friday. As you know, our great NJ broadcasters have responded to extreme and hazardous weather events magnificently in the past and we expect them to continue this fine tradition of selfless service in the face or Hurricane Sandy and its aftermath.” Read the entire text of Rotella’s statement here.
New Jersey Likely Ground Zero as Sandy Moves Inland; Broadcasters Foundation Steps Up to the Plate. Slow-moving Hurricane Sandy has already taken more than 60 lives in the Caribbean and it is moving north and is expected to turn west and move inland hitting the coast of New Jersey first as it sweeps up the Eastern Seaboard. The New Jersey Broadcasters Association has been in communication with stations in the state helping them prepare for coverage of the storm. NJBA president Paul Rotella relates that the FCC is available “24-7…during the storm to answer calls about service outages, to assist where possible in restoring any lost service, and to issue emergency authorizations for temporary facilities. As we have written before, the FCC has been helpful in past disasters — seemingly able to bridge bureaucratic barriers that might otherwise delay the restoration of communications services.” Rotella also alerts broadcasters in the region that the 
Broadcasters Foundation of America may be of assistance to broadcasters in need. “Broadcasters Foundation of America president Jim Thompson asked that I reach out to those state associations in the path of Sandy to remind them that the BFoA is there for broadcasters in times of unexpected need, especially broadcasters caught in the crosshairs of the approaching storm, or in its aftermath…As you may recall, the BFoA responded rapidly to the deadly tornadoes across the Midwest last year with $41,000 in emergency grants dispatched almost immediately after the tornadoes hit. Emergency grants can be used to buy food, clothing and even emergency shelter, especially for broadcasters suffering substantial and even catastrophic loss in the wake of the storm. Broadcasters (and even association execs) may apply for an emergency one-time $1,000 grant by contacting Jim or his staff. As you know, Jim’s dedicated team reviews and responds to emergency grant applications quickly and with unmatched compassion. You and your members can reach Jim at 212-373-8250 or via email: jim@thebfoa.org.”
Orlando Radio Institution Jim Turner to Retire from WDBO. Jim Turner has been with Cox Media’s WDBO, Orlando since it was a music outlet joining the station as afternoon jock in 1972. He made the transition to morning drive host 12 years later and was chosen by then program director David Bernstein to lead the station as it changed from a
music station to a news and information outlet. Now, 40 years later, Turner will retire from the radio business and KRMG-AM/FM, Tulsa morning host Joe Kelly will take over the morning role at WDBO. Kelly will join WDBO on November 19 and will transition into the morning role. A final broadcast for Turner has not been announced. WDBO program director Drew Anderssen states, “Jim is a broadcast icon. He has been revered as one of the premier morning hosts in America for many years, a true professional, and a great man. We stand by Jim in celebration of his 40 years of community service and dedication to Central Florida as he begins to write a new page in his life. He will truly be missed as the daily voice of morning news in Orlando radio.” In Tulsa, program director Levi May begins the search for the replacement of Joe Kelly. May states, “We are very excited about the opportunity to bring new, outstanding talent to KRMG and further grow our listening audience. KRMG is dedicated to being Tulsa’s number one station for news, weather, and traffic and we will always remain committed to that pledge.”
Martha Zoller to Return to Radio in 2013. Gainesville, Georgia-based talk show host Martha Zoller left her radio show on WXKT, Gainesville this year to run for Congress in the 9th Georgia District. She lost a close race in the Republican primary and now says she will return to the radio in January of 2013 though she’s not saying where just yet. In the meantime, Zoller will appear on Talk Radio Network-produced morning program “America’s Morning News” tomorrow morning to discuss the Campaign to Fix the Debt. Zoller sits on the steering committee for the campaign.
Premiere to Handle Ad Sales for 24/7 Comedy. Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s 24/7 Comedy format will have ad sales and national syndicated handled by the company’s Premiere Networks. 24/7 Comedy debuted in 2010 and currently had about 30 affiliates and boasts a library of more than 15,000 comedy bits. Clear Channel president of content and affiliate services for national media groups Julie Talbott says, “24/7 Comedy provides stations with the unique opportunity to own comedy in their market with an audience engaging format. Comedy has universal consumer appeal across all forms of media, so we’re excited to deliver this ratings-winning format to more radio stations across the U.S.”
Salem Preparing for LMA of Columbus FM; Conservative Talk Lineup Appears Likely. The domain 989TheAnswer.com registered to Salem Communications seems to indicate that the company will flip Radio One’s WJKR, Columbus “JackFM” to its conservative news/talk format positioned with its “The Answer” slogan. Salem, which is purchasing the station from Radio One, will assume operation of the station on Thursday, November 1 under an LMA and it’s expected the slate of Salem Radio Network programs – Bill Bennett, Mike Gallagher, Michael Medved, Hugh Hewitt, and Dennis Prager – will occupy the program schedule.
Start Doing This Right Now on Facebook! It’s a common belief that Facebook has drastically cut back on how many people see radio’s branded posts, so that broadcasters using the platform have to buy more advertising. That may well be the case! However, the Facebook folks are not only concerned about money, they’re also concerned about their version of time spent listening. They want users to visit more often; and they want them to scroll further down their news feeds than they do now. They may be limiting how much stuff people see from commercial enterprises, so that it doesn’t crowd out what they see from their friends and family. In any event, according to radio digital consultant Chris Miller, radio can overcome these obstacles. So, Miller presents TALKERS readers with the state-of-the-art techniques that will help you get seen more, and engaged with more often. If you’re doing it right, that will then lead to more on-air and online usage of your radio station, which is the ultimate goal. To read Chris Miller’s exclusive article, click here.
Comedian Adam Carolla Joins Bill O’Reilly’s Fox News Channel Program. Comedian, radio host and producer of the one of the most popular podcasts Adam Carolla is becoming part of Fox News Channel’s “The O’Reilly Factor” as a contributor. Bill O’Reilly – who still maintains a talk radio presence with his Courtside Entertainment-distributed “Talking Points” daily features – already uses comedian and Dial Global nationally syndicated talk host Dennis Miller as a contributor. Miller usually appears on Wednesdays while the Hollywood Reporter states Carolla will likely be a regular part of Monday’s programs.
WQAM’s Dan Sileo Gets TV Shot. WQAM, Miami sports talk host Dan Sileo appears on the little screen this weekend when he joins the ACC Network when he appears on the pregame show from Charlotte with hosts Jeff Fischel and Dorsey Levens. The program hits the air at 11:00 am ET on Saturday.
Gone to the Dogs. KIDO, Boise morning drive host Kevin Miller is living in a cage at the Canyon County Animal Shelter to promote the shelter’s Mission Pawsible Challenge that involves getting the most pets adopted out to families. It’s part of the 3rd annual ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K Challenge. By saving the most lives in the challenge, the shelter could win up to $100,000 that would go to helping feed, home, and keep all of the animals at the shelter healthy! Miller is spending the 25th through the 31st of October in the cage you see here while broadcasting his program each morning. Miller tells the Idaho Press he “would be lost” without his dogs Alabama and Carolina, so doing whatever he could for the shelter seemed right. “We’ll be here to the final hour, the final minute, the final second, to get as many of these four-legged family members a forever home.”
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Norm Pattiz’s Courtside Entertainment Group forms Podcast Giant Launchpad Digital Media. Courtside Entertainment Group CEO Norm Pattiz (pictured below at left) enters into a partnership with digital, online and podcast sales pioneer Kit Gray (below at right) to form a new division of Courtside Entertainment Group called Launchpad Digital Media. Courtside states that the podcast platform includes some of the biggest names in digital entertainment including: Adam Carolla, Bill Burr, CBS News, Afterbuzz TV with Maria Menuounos, Jay Mohr, Dr. Drew, Chris Hardwick (The Nerdist), Mark & Lynda, Brian & Jill, and Penn Jillette. Launchpad will also be home to the Sideshow Network, The Fake Mustache Network, Riotcast
Network, Splitsider Network and the Toad Hop Network making Launchpad one of the industry’s largest players. Kit Gray will serve as president and COO of Launchpad Digital Media. In a statement announcing the new company, Pattiz says, “Podcasts represent one of the fastest growing segments of digital media. Kit Gray has a great track record of success in this important space and brings with him not only knowledge and energy, but the revenue and cash flow to prove it. He brings Courtside instant access not only for our existing programs but for the development of future programming that will live on the Launchpad platform.” Gray states, “Forming a partnership with Norm Pattiz, the founder of Westwood One, with his incredible vision and history of working with the top talent is an unbelievable opportunity. This partnership, as a division of Courtside, allows us to offer all of our existing clients more resources to expand their products and deliver more audience to develop the advertiser support that will benefit us all.” Speaking about this new effort, Patty Newmark of Newmark Advertising says, “The digital space for audio is growing exponentially and has allowed us to extend additional opportunities to our clients. Having a highly respected leader of the radio industry like Norm Pattiz form a new venture with Kit Gray, an expert in the area of digital media, is very exciting. These two innovators working together will create important opportunities within the changing media landscape.” Courtside notes that Kit Gray has represented programming that exceeds a half-billion podcast downloads annually. He’s worked with media agencies throughout the nation, served as a division manager for Clear Channel (Katz 360 Digital), was the director of advertising for Verizon’s EV-DO networks Amp’d Mobile and was the recipient of the “Seller of the Year” award for Katz Media Group.
Mel Karmazin to Leave SiriusXM in February. Just how and when Mel Karmazin was going to leave SiriusXM was really the question – that he was leaving was pretty much a foregone conclusion to most industry watchers. Now we know Karmazin will exit his CEO role with the satcaster and he will resign from the company’s board of directors on
February 1, 2013. In a public statement, Karmazin says, “SiriusXM is an extraordinary company with an incredible team. It is an honor to come to work here every day where we truly deliver the best radio on radio. I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished. Given where we started, it is amazing that SiriusXM has grown to become the largest radio company in the world. With a deep bench of corporate talent, a roster that includes the most in-demand on-air personalities and a wide range of exclusive programming, SiriusXM has never been better positioned than it is today. We continue to grow our subscriber base to record levels and our financial position has never been stronger. Importantly, the commitment to delivering innovative new products and technologies is very strong. SiriusXM has a strong foundation to build on for the future and there is a great team in place to keep the company moving forward. I am confident that SiriusXM’s best years are ahead.” The press release includes a statement from SiriusXM board chairman Eddy Hartenstein. He says, “On behalf of the board of directors, I want to thank Mel for his significant contributions to the company. Under his leadership, the company underwent a transformative merger and a financial restructuring that has enabled SiriusXM to deliver significant value for shareholders. Our record breaking financial results are a testament to Mel’s leadership and strategic planning and we continue to exceed our expectations with all-time high subscriber numbers. Thanks to Mel, we are well positioned for long-term growth and value creation. We will miss Mel – and the board wishes him the very best in his future endeavors.”
More Changes at WGN, Chicago as John Williams to Leave Midday Show. John Williams will continue with Tribune’s WGN, Chicago through the end of the year but, beginning in January, he and his family will return to the Minneapolis area and Williams will give his full attention to his afternoon drive show at CBS Radio’s WCCO which he’s been doing from Chicago for some time. WGN program director Bill White states, “John is a great broadcaster and has been a
valued member of the WGN Radio family. While we are sad to see him go, we are happy for John and his family that they are able to return to Minneapolis, where they lived before moving to Chicago. We wish him all the best and know that he will continue to shine in his role at WCCO.” Williams indicates this is a decision he’s been considering for a while. “I decided some time ago to do just one show – as well as I can – and that one will be at WCCO. Both stations and staffs deserve as much.” WGN is seeking his replacement and expects to name the new host of the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm program in the coming weeks.
Shamrock Communications Officially Announces Today’s Launch of KNEWS in Reno. Yesterday, TALKERS reported the debut of one of four new FM signals Shamrock Communications is putting on the air in the Reno market. The company officially announces the launch of KNEZ-FM “107.3 KNews” today and 13-year radio veteran Sean Patrick is a big part of the station. Patrick, who is the station’s news director, will also host the PM drive show as well as serve as the voice of Wolf Pack football and the Reno Bighorns. Director of broadcast operations for the station is Willobee Carlan. Sean Patrick states that with the ever-changing political climate, people want something new, “There’s too much confrontation on the airwaves and not enough conversation. We will bring a much more level-headed conversational tone to political talk. Neither side is 100% right nor 100% wrong. We want you to be a part of the conversation. KNEWS Reno is ‘The Conversation Station!’” The station will air Premiere Networks’ Glenn Beck in AM drive followed by Cumulus Media Networks’ Mike Huckabee, WYD Media’s Michael Smerconish and Talk Radio Network’s Rusty Humphries in the evenings.
Mark Levin-founded Landmark Legal Foundation to Sue EPA. Cumulus Media Networks nationally syndicated talk host Mark Levin explained the Landmark Legal Foundation’s intent to sue the Obama Administration’s Environmental Protection Agency on his program on Monday. Levin stated the suit centers around new environmental rules set to kick in for which the public has not been given notice. According to The Examiner, the Landmark Legal Foundation requested the documents through the Freedom of Information Act months ago but the records have not been turned over. The organization also petitioned the federal court to block administrator of the EPA Lisa Jackson and her agency from issuing any new regulations until the agency releases the documents.
WEEI, Boston Debuts New Baseball Show. Playing the “hits” in New England on a sports talk station means talking about Red Sox baseball no matter what time of year it is. To that end, Entercom Boston vice president of programming and operations Jason Wolfe announces a new weekly program hosted by Kirk Minihane and WEEI.com Red Sox insiders Rob Bradford and Alex Speier called “Red Sox Hot Stove.” The one-hour program debuts tomorrow night and airs from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm Thursdays through February 14. Wolfe says the program will be focused exclusively on the Red Sox and will include regular interviews with Sox GM Ben Cherington as well as many other Sox beat writers and columnists who will provide unique information and insight. “This is has been a very difficult season for Red Sox fans, but it also means that the off season will be incredibly meaningful. There will be more Red Sox talk this off season than in any other in recent memory given the needs of the team, and this show will provide listeners with the most up to date information as it happens.”
Nationally Syndicated Host Dr. Ken Kronhaus Featured in AARP/Crest Health Campaign. As host of the nationally syndicated Stephan Multimedia weekend production “Good Day Health” and frequent contributor to Doug Stephan’s daily “Good Day” syndicated morning show, Dr. Ken Kronhaus is a well-known voice in health media. Now, he is working with AARP and Crest on a campaign featuring Dr. Kronhaus that includes custom content provided by him promoting the idea that the mouth is the gateway to your overall health. Dr. Kronhaus also serves as AARP health-editor-at-large.
Post-Debate Analysis, Presidential Race Polls, Libya Attack Controversy, and Financial Markets Activity Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (10/23). Analysis of the candidates’ performance in the final presidential debate; the most recent polls of the presidential campaign, new information indicating the White House knew the attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi was terrorist related; and the turbulent week of activity in the world’s financial markets were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
More Groups Board the iHeartRadio Digital Train. In what seems to be an industry-wide strategy to battle Pandora in the digital realm, two more groups – Cox Media Group and Emmis Communications – have joined Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s iHeartRadio digital audio app. Cox Media Group will present 86 of its stations from 19 markets and Emmis will offer 20 stations from six markets on the platform. The iHeartRadio platform now boasts audio from more than 1,000 terrestrial stations from some 150 markets (plus the ability of users to create custom “stations” via song or artist) is available. Cox Media Group president Doug Franklin says, “Cox Media Group is impressed with the progress that iHeartRadio has made over the last year. Our strategy is to serve our listeners on as many digital platforms as possible. We look forward to extending our reach in partnership with iHeartRadio.” At Emmis, chairman and CEO Jeff Smulyan states, “By joining iHeartRadio, we offer our listeners – including listeners of our premiere hip-hop brands Hot 97 in New York and Power 106 in Los Angeles – a great way to continue to enjoy our stations’ content.”
Jacobs Media Study Shows News/Talk Listeners Love Smartphones and Tablets; Not So Big on Social Media. The results of Jacobs Media’s Techsurvey 8 – data culled from regular radio listeners – indicates regular listeners to news/talk stations like the hardware but are as fond of using social media as primary listeners of other radio formats. The data was presented in a Jacobs Media webinar yesterday. Jacobs has been offering the webinars in format-specific chunks and yesterday’s focused on news/talk listeners. Fred Jacobs fed participants data from his company’s annual study and some of the takeaways included interesting data about their media consumption habits such as: News/talk listeners use cellphones, the internet, TV and AM/FM radio on par with listeners to other formats but their using of social media such as Facebook and Twitter is considerably less. However, when it comes to social media sites, their usage of LinkedIn exceeds that of usage by other format devotees. As for “first occasion” – which media is consumed first after waking up – 43% of news/talk listeners use radio either at home or in the car. They are also more likely than users of other formats to check their e-mail or read a newspaper (either in print or online) as their first media experience of the day. If it’s any inspiration for beefing up the news department, 70% of news/talk listeners cite getting the news/weather/traffic as the number one reason for listening to AM/FM radio compared to 22% for all other formats combined. Of all the formats, news/talk fans are least likely to “like” a station’s Facebook page but 21% say they check the station’s website every day. And when it comes to following a station or personality on Twitter, sports talk is the hands-down winner with 51% of sports talk fans saying they do so. News/talk aficionados do that less than the median with only 24% saying they follow a station or personality on Twitter. Finally, when it comes to audio and video streaming, 33% of news/talk listeners listen to the station’s stream once per week – below the average of 38% — but 61% of them will stream video once per week – that’s above the average. When they do, news/talk listeners get their video from network TV first, then cable TV, and their third favorite choice is your news/talk station.
ABC News Radio Partners with Slacker to Offer Lifestyle Talk Channels. Digital audio service Slacker and ABC News Radio will work together to offer lifestyle talk content targeting men and women – dubbed “Men’s Life” and “Women’s Life.” Slacker states in a release that the stations can be customized by the user to control the content they hear based on its relevance to them. Slacker SVP of marketing Jonathan Sasse says, “Our new lifestyle stations capture the most interesting content for men and women from experts in over a dozen subjects. No other radio service is providing access to content like this, and it is important to us that these stations include the option to customize based on the topics each listener finds most interesting.” Categories of content available to users include: (for men) Health & Fitness, Games & Gadgets, Food & Drink, Style & Fashion, Cars & Gear, Tech, Travel & Adventure, Entertainment, Money, Relationships, Green Living and Home Improvement. And for women: Hair & Beauty, Style & Fashion, Relationships, Health & Fitness, Money, Entertainment, Food & Drink, Home Living, Tech, Parenting, Travel & Adventure and Green Living. ABC News Radio VP and general manager Steve Jones says, “Since men and women often have different interests, our new Men’s Life and Women’s Life channels appeal to different sensibilities and styles. We curate this content to make it unique but ultimately Slacker listeners drive their own experience since they can skip stories within each channel just as they do now with songs.”
Google and SiriusXM Enter into Content Sharing Deal. Searching for ways to give a boost to its lagging Google TV service, the digital giant has struck a deal with SiriusXM to allow users of Google TV to hear all of the satcaster’s programming – including Howard Stern and the live sports programming. According to Reuters, the deal is to be announced at a Google I/O developer conference in San Francisco today. Google TV is a software built in to television sets currently manufactured by Sony, LG Electronics and Vizio. Major broadcasters have blocked online versions of their content from appearing on Google TV and the service has had a rough start, to say the least. Netflix and Amazon.com have joined Google TV as well.
Comedian and Morning Show Host Rickey Smiley Extends Deal with Radio One; Two TV Deals in the Works. Morning radio show host Rickey Smiley inks a contract extension with Radio One that will keep him with the company. Currently his morning show is heard in 55 markets on urban outlets. In addition, Smiley is developing a weekly TV sitcom for TV One currently in production in Atlanta. He will also be part of Fox TV’s “Dish Nation” show that features a number of morning radio hosts from around the country. Radio One CEO and TV One chairman Alfred Liggins states, “Radio One and TV One are huge believers in investing in quality content. Rickey Smiley represents a significant multi-media talent and our enhanced backing and long-term investment in his brand represents a commitment we believe is core to our companies’ future strategy. Rickey Smiley is not only a current star, but he is one of the fastest-growing entertainment brands in any media today.”
Odds ‘n’ Sods. Adam Carolla’s Carolla Digital enters into a partnership with TuneIn to deliver his content via the digital audio service. All episodes of every recent Carolla Digital will be available on the service that has some 30 million monthly active listeners…..SiriusXM sports talk host Dino Costa and former college basketball coach Steve Lappas will co-host the satcaster’s coverage of the NBA draft on Thursday, June 28 beginning at 7:00 pm on Mad Dog Radio…..WBZ-FM, Boston – 98.5 the Sports Hub – weekend sports talk host Nick Cattles heads south to become PM drive host at ESPN 94.1 FM (WVSP) serving the Norfolk, Virginia market. He takes over for Tony Mercurio who exited the station last month…..ESPN Radio presents live, exclusive coverage of the UEFA Euro 2012 Final on Sunday, July 1 at 2:30 pm ET.
Wisconsin Station Flips to Talk Beginning in July. The La Crosse Radio Group will flip standard WLFN, La Crosse, Wisconsin to news/talk beginning July 1. The station’s program lineup will feature local talk host Bob Schmidt in morning drive and an eclectic lineup of nationally syndicated talent including: “The Wall Street Journal This Morning” with Gordon Deal, Dial Global’s Dennis Miller, WIBA, Madison-based Vicki McKenna, WYD Media’s Michael Smerconish, The Wall Street Journal Radio Network’s “The Daily Wrap” with Michael Castner, Fox News Radio’s Alan Colmes, and CBS Radio’s “Overnight America” with Jon Grayson. WLFN program director Neil Klos tells TALKERS, “This radio station was designed local first giving our local listeners a voice. Our design was not to be ‘political,’ but entertaining and informative.”
Arizona Illegal Immigration Ruling, ‘Fast and Furious’ Contempt Vote, Colorado Wildfire, Looming ObamaCare Decision and Charles Rangel Wins Primary Battle Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (6/26). The aftermath of the Supreme Court ruling on the Arizona immigration law; a potential House contempt vote against Attorney General Eric Holder in the ‘Fast and Furious’ case; the Colorado wildfire that’s displaced more than 30,000 people; the expected decision from the Supreme Court on ObamaCare; and New York Congressman Charles Rangel’s primary election victory were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Power-Packed Agenda Set for New Media Seminar June 7. According to TALKERS magazine VP/managing editor Kevin Casey, “In all the years we have been presenting radio industry conferences, I do not remember one quite like this in which so many outstanding speakers were packed into a single day’s event. Our innovative model designed for an economically challenging era seems to be striking a very positive chord. The New York City installment of 2012’s bi-coastal conference is only a few days away from being sold out.” More than 60 industry leaders will address the key issues facing talk media between 9:00 am to 6:30 pm on Thursday, June 7 at the Concierge Conference Center on Manhattan’s East Side. For registration and sponsorship information for this industry-only event call 413-565-5413. To see the agenda click here.
Rush Limbaugh Named “Famous Missourian”; Choice Irks State Democrats. Premiere Networks nationally syndicated talk star Rush Limbaugh was inducted into the Hall of Famous Missourians yesterday in a closed ceremony at the state capitol in Jefferson City. A bronze bust of the talk host was unveiled during the event. State Democrats were disturbed by the ceremony that was not announced until 20 minutes prior to it beginning. It took place in the chambers of the House of Representatives and Democrats were not allowed in. Missouri House Speaker Steven Tilley told the Kansas City Star the ceremony was closed because of the controversy and so that Limbaugh and his family could attend and be “treated respectfully.” Democrats were not invited because earlier they signed a letter protesting the induction. In a speech at the induction Limbaugh stated, “This is something I never, ever thought would happen to me…I want to express my deep gratitude. I’m exceptionally proud to accept this honor, and really very humbled.” Limbaugh joins the ranks of such famous Missourians as Mark Twain, Harry Truman and Dred Scott.
Dial Global’s Dennis Miller to Perform with Adam Carolla in November. Nationally syndicated talk host Dennis Miller had comedian, TV star and podcaster Adam Carolla on his program yesterday (5/14) and the two announced they will perform live on stage together at the City National Grove in Anaheim on November 16. Miller tells Carolla, “You know what I think about the way your mind works – it’s genius.” In addition to his radio program, Dennis Miller has been doing live performances with Fox News Channel’s Bill O’Reilly on their “Bolder and Fresher Tour 2012.” The duo recently performed at New York City’s Town Hall.
Anniversary Bash. Journal Broadcasting’s KQTH-FM, Tucson – 104.1 The Truth – celebrated its fifth anniversary on Saturday, May 12 at the Casino Del Sol Resort. Program director Ryan McCredden tells TALKERS, “The listeners, speakers, staff and sponsor response to the event was tremendous and we’re looking forward to another five great years of ‘The Truth’ in Tucson!” Pictured here are (from l-r): Author and townhall.com writer Katie Pavlich, Radio America’s Roger Hedgecock, author and commentator S.E. Cupp, Talk Radio Network’s Jerry Doyle, KQTH-FM morning host Jon Justice and midday host James T. Harris.
New York Festivals Announces 2012 Radio Program and Promotion Awards World’s Best Radio Programs Finalists. The New York Festivals breaks down the entries by country. For the United States among commercial talk broadcasters, ESPN Radio is named a finalist in the Best Human Interest Story and Best Investigative Reporting categories. “The Sporting Life with Jeremy Schaap” is a finalist for Best Regularly Scheduled Sports Program. SiriusXM’sHoward Stern is a finalist for Best Special Event. Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s KFBK, Sacramento is a finalist in the Health/Medical category. Winners will be honored at a gala awards ceremony on June 18 at New York City’s Manhattan Penthouse. See the entire slate of finalists here.
Compass Media Networks Names Booth Talent for Baseball Broadcasts. For its 25 broadcasts of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim games Compass Media Networks recently announced it would distribute, the company has named its game coverage talent. Former New York Mets general manager and current SiriusXM Mad Dog Radio morning host Steve Phillipswill be analyst for the broadcasts. Others, whose appearance on the broadcasts will be determined by travel schedule and other commitments, include play-by-play announcers Chris Carrino and Steve Quis and analyst and former MLB player and executive Darryl Hamilton.
CBS Radio’s Stacie Schmidt Moves from Las Vegas to Cleveland. Stacie Schmidt currently serves as director of marketing for CBS Radio’s Las Vegas cluster that includes news/talk KXNT-AM/FM. She’s moving back to her home town of Cleveland to take the integrated sales and marketing position at CBS Radio’s cluster there that includes sports WKRK-FM – 92.3 the Fan.
Obama Newsweek Cover, 2012 Presidential Race, Euro Zone Hangs in Balance, JP Morgan Chase Loss and California Debt Crisis Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/14). The “first gay president”Newsweek cover; the 2012 presidential race; the future of the euro zone as countries threaten to leave; the $2 billion loss at JP Morgan Chase; and California’s enormous debt problem were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Brooklyn in the House. Sure, it’s easy to get supermodel and actress Brooklyn Decker to visit your radio show when hubby Andy Roddick is co-host of the program. Decker is pictured here in the Fox Sports Radio studios with husband and tennis great Andy Roddick (c) and radio personality Bobby Bones (l). The “Roddick and Bones” show airs on weekends on the FSRN. During the interview Decker promoted her two new films, “Battleship” and “What to Expect When You’re Expecting,” both being released on May 18.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Jim Graci Named Program Director at KDKA, Pittsburgh. CBS Radio announces the new program director for its news/talk KDKA, Pittsburgh several months after it chose not to renew its contract with former PD Marshall Adams. Jim Graci – who previously programmed crosstown WEAE – comes north from Cumulus’ KLIF where he’s been serving as PD. Also at KDKA, longtime KDKA news staffer P.J. Kumanchik is promoted to news director at the station.
WAXY, Miami Announces Tod Castleberry Takes PD Role at Station. Program director and Dan LeBatard show executive producer and cast member Marc Hochman is probably almost as happy about this hire as Tod Castleberry is. Hochman’s been handling both roles and agreed with Lincoln Financial Media to continue in both until a successor for his PD position could be found. Hochman wants to put his total concentration on the Dan LeBatard show and now he can do that. Tod Castleberry has worked at Red Zebra’s sports WTEM, Washington and most recently has been working as partner and executive producer of the John Riggins internet show.
ABC News Radio to Produce Special Program Sparked by Trayvon Martin Death. The special one-hour broadcast will take place tomorrow night (3/28) at 7:00 pm ET and will be hosted by “Good Morning America’s” Robin Roberts. Titled, “Race and Justice: A National Conversation,” the show will focus on the national dialogue that’s been spurred by the shooting death of Trayvon Martin. ABC News Radio says the show will feature “Robin Roberts leading a town hall discussion with prominent newsmakers and an audience of high school students and parents. The program will further the national discussion involving all racial and ethnic groups stirred by the circumstances of Trayvon Martin’s death.” The show is available to ABC News Radio affiliates.
TRN’s Michael Savage to Publish New Non-Fiction Book. Nationally syndicated talk sensation Michael Savage’s new book hits the bookstore shelves on April 3 – with major booksellers currently taking pre-orders. In Trickle Down Tyranny: Crushing Obama’s Dream of the Socialist States of America (Harper Collins 2012), Savage examines the state of the nation and especially how he believes the Obama Administration is on the wrong path. He writes, “Obama is actively creating a populace ever more slavishly dependent on the federal government.” Other topics include punishing success, “The president has openly declared war on those who have worked hard all their lives to achieve the American dream.” Savage discusses how we treat our enemies and allies, “He treats radical Islamists in the Middle East as friends, then stiffs Israel and our Western European allies.” He says that the military is used like pawns, “While Obama uses proud Navy SEALs for a publicity stunt, and the overall strength of the military has been decimated.” Other topics including the Southern border chaos and corporate cronyism are covered in a way that only Michael Savage could reveal. Savage is the author of 26 books including four New York Times bestsellers.
Arbitron and California Agree to Settlement in PPM Suit. The State of California and the cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco are settling their suit against Arbitron for its practices regarding the Portable People Meter that the entities alleged underrepresented minorities and minority-targeted radio stations. Arbitron states, “As part of the settlement, Arbitron has agreed to continue a number of measures already an integral part of the company’s current PPM methodology and of its continuous improvement program for the Portable People Meter ratings services in all markets. These measures include the already completed transition to address-based sample frames, cell-phone-only sampling rates, reporting country of origin for Hispanic households and certain other sample performance and demographic information to subscribers by individual zip code, continuing efforts to maintain or achieve specific in-tab rates and Sample Performance Indicators, and continuing the company’s commitment to using all reasonable measures to achieve Media Rating Council accreditation for the data produced by the PPM ratings service in all California markets. These commitments are generally consistent with the company’s agreements with other states and are in force through December 31, 2014, or until MRC accreditation is granted, whichever comes first. The Company also agreed to pay a total of $400,000 in settlement of all claims and costs.” Arbitron states the settlement is not an admission of fault.
Dennis Miller Celebrates His 5th Anniversary Week with Special Guests. Dial Global talk show host Dennis Miller is celebrating his 5th anniversary hosting his nationally syndicated talk show this week and he’s scheduled some high-profile guests for the event. GOP presidential candidate Mitt Romney joins the show today (3/27). Other guests this week include: AMC’s “Mad Men” creator Matthew Weiner, National Review editor Rich Lowry and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. On Thursday’s special anniversary show, good friend and “Saturday Night Live” alumnus Jimmy Fallon of NBC’s “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” will join Miller. Also coming on the show that day will be actor/comedian David Spade, who’s currently on CBS’s “Rules of Engagement” and Adam Carolla, who’s on NBC’s “Celebrity Apprentice.” Dial Global EVP of news and talk programming Bart Tessler states, “Dennis consistently brings together such an eclectic and interesting group of guests. Only he could seamlessly switch from a compelling political conversation with a presidential candidate to tapping into the zeitgeist with a late night comic.”
Cumulus Media Networks to Syndicate Medical Feature with Dr. Sanjay Gupta. The vignettes to begin distribution in May through Cumulus Media Networks are broken into two target demos: one style for news/talk stations and another for a younger audience on music and entertainment stations. Two features per day for each variety will be available. Cumulus chairman, president and CEO Lew Dickey says, “Dr. Sanjay Gupta is a unique and profoundly talented individual. His insights and experience will bring compelling content to our affiliates and create powerful new vehicles for our advertisers. We look for Dr. Gupta to be an important component in our overall content strategy.” Dr. Gupta is a practicing neurosurgeon and serves as chief medical correspondent for CNN.
WOR, New York’s Former Governor David Paterson to Host Political Roundtable Event. Afternoon drive host former Governor David Paterson will moderate a special roundtable discussion from the famous Russian Tea Room broadcast live on WOR, New York on April 5. Taking part in this “State of the Tri-State” three-hour expanded edition (to be broadcast from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on WOR) of the Governor’s show are: former New York Lieutenant Governor Betsy McCaughey, United Federation of Teachers president Michael Mulgrew, New York City Councilman Robert Jackson, New Jersey Association of School Administrators executive director Dr. Richard Bozza, Congressman Bill Pascrell (D-NJ), national security expert K.T. McFarland, and Abdur-Rashid, religious and spiritual leader of the Mosque of Islamic Brotherhood in Harlem. WOR VP/GM Jerry Crowley states, “There is no one more uniquely qualified than Governor Paterson to bring together these top names on one radio broadcast to discuss the issues that are most important to our listeners and our community. Headlines are sure to be made during this very special program.” The broadcast is open to members of the press but not to the public.
Salem Communications Buys Detroit-Area Translator for News/Talk WDTK. Salem Communications is paying $250,000 for the FM translator currently at 97.5 and licensed to Harrison, Michigan. The seller is Tim Martz’s Radio Power and there’s currently a construction permit to move the translator to Detroit proper and to the 92.7 frequency. Salem intends to use the FM signal to assist its news/talk WDTK, Detroit.
ObamaCare Goes Before Supreme Court, Pressure Heightens for Charges in Trayvon Martin Case, GOP Primary Race and Obama-Medvedev Flap Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (3/26). The first day of arguments at the Supreme Court over aspects of President Obama’s 2010 Affordable Care Act; the growing pressure on authorities to arrest George Zimmerman in the shooting death of Trayvon Martin; the GOP primary race; and the flap over President Obama’s remarks to Russian president Dmitry Medvedev were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Power-Packed Agenda Set for New Media Seminar June 7. According to TALKERS magazine VP/managing editor Kevin Casey, “In all the years we have been presenting radio industry conferences, I do not remember one quite like this in which so many outstanding speakers were packed into a single day’s event. Our innovative model designed for an economically challenging era seems to be striking a very positive chord. The New York City installment of 2012’s bi-coastal conference is only a few days away from being sold out.” More than 60 industry leaders will address the key issues facing talk media between 9:00 am to 6:30 pm on Thursday, June 7 at the Concierge Conference Center on Manhattan’s East Side. For registration and sponsorship information for this industry-only event call 413-565-5413. To see the agenda click here.
Rush Limbaugh Named “Famous Missourian”; Choice Irks State Democrats. Premiere Networks nationally syndicated talk star Rush Limbaugh was inducted into the Hall of Famous Missourians yesterday in a closed ceremony at the state capitol in Jefferson City. A bronze bust of the talk host was unveiled during the event. State Democrats were disturbed by the ceremony that was not announced until 20 minutes prior to it beginning. It took place in the chambers of the House of Representatives and Democrats were not allowed in. Missouri House Speaker Steven Tilley told the Kansas City Star the ceremony was closed because of the controversy and so that Limbaugh and his family could attend and be “treated respectfully.” Democrats were not invited because earlier they signed a letter protesting the induction. In a speech at the induction Limbaugh stated, “This is something I never, ever thought would happen to me…I want to express my deep gratitude. I’m exceptionally proud to accept this honor, and really very humbled.” Limbaugh joins the ranks of such famous Missourians as Mark Twain, Harry Truman and Dred Scott.
Dial Global’s Dennis Miller to Perform with Adam Carolla in November. Nationally syndicated talk host Dennis Miller had comedian, TV star and podcaster Adam Carolla on his program yesterday (5/14) and the two announced they will perform live on stage together at the City National Grove in Anaheim on November 16. Miller tells Carolla, “You know what I think about the way your mind works – it’s genius.” In addition to his radio program, Dennis Miller has been doing live performances with Fox News Channel’s Bill O’Reilly on their “Bolder and Fresher Tour 2012.” The duo recently performed at New York City’s Town Hall.
Anniversary Bash. Journal Broadcasting’s KQTH-FM, Tucson – 104.1 The Truth – celebrated its fifth anniversary on Saturday, May 19 at the Casino Del Sol Resort. Program director Ryan McCredden tells TALKERS, “The listeners, speakers, staff and sponsor response to the event was tremendous and we’re looking forward to another five great years of ‘The Truth’ in Tucson!” Pictured here are (from l-r): Author and townhall.com writer Katie Pavlich, Radio America’s Roger Hedgecock, author and commentator S.E. Cupp, Talk Radio Network’s Jerry Doyle, KQTH-FM morning host Jon Justice and midday host James T. Harris.
New York Festivals Announces 2012 Radio Program and Promotion Awards World’s Best Radio Programs Finalists. The New York Festivals breaks down the entries by country. For the United States among commercial talk broadcasters, ESPN Radio is named a finalist in the Best Human Interest Story and Best Investigative Reporting categories. “The Sporting Life with Jeremy Schaap” is a finalist for Best Regularly Scheduled Sports Program. SiriusXM’s Howard Stern is a finalist for Best Special Event. Clear Channel Media and Entertainment’s KFBK, Sacramento is a finalist in the Health/Medical category. Winners will be honored at a gala awards ceremony on June 18 at New York City’s Manhattan Penthouse. See the entire slate of finalists here.
Compass Media Networks Names Booth Talent for Baseball Broadcasts. For its 25 broadcasts of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim games Compass Media Networks recently announced it would distribute, the company has named its game coverage talent. Former New York Mets general manager and current SiriusXM Mad Dog Radio morning host Steve Phillips will be analyst for the broadcasts. Others, whose appearance on the broadcasts will be determined by travel schedule and other commitments, include play-by-play announcers Chris Carrino and Steve Quis and analyst and former MLB player and executive Darryl Hamilton.
CBS Radio’s Stacie Schmidt Moves from Las Vegas to Cleveland. Stacie Schmidt currently serves as director of marketing for CBS Radio’s Las Vegas cluster that includes news/talk KXNT-AM/FM. She’s moving back to her home town of Cleveland to take the integrated sales and marketing position at CBS Radio’s cluster there that includes sports WKRK-FM – 92.3 the Fan.
Obama Newsweek Cover, 2012 Presidential Race, Euro Zone Hangs in Balance, JP Morgan Chase Loss and California Debt Crisis Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/14). The “first gay president” Newsweek cover; the 2012 presidential race; the future of the euro zone as countries threaten to leave; the $2 billion loss at JP Morgan Chase; and California’s enormous debt problem were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.
Brooklyn in the House. Sure, it’s easy to get supermodel and actress Brooklyn Decker to visit your radio show when hubby Andy Roddick is co-host of the program. Decker is pictured here in the Fox Sports Radio studios with husband and tennis great Andy Roddick (c) and radio personality Bobby Bones (l). The “Roddick and Bones” show airs on weekends on the FSRN. During the interview Decker promoted her two new films, “Battleship” and “What to Expect When You’re Expecting,” both being released on May 18.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Paul Finebaum v. Citadel: A Lesson in Fine Print. TALKERS legal editor Steven J.J. Weisman writes that the case of WJOX-FM, Birmingham sports talk host Paul Finebaum suing employer Citadel for breach of contract is an example of why employment contracts should always be reviewed by the talent’s lawyer before being signed – regardless of what the employer prefers. Employment situations can be complicated by addenda, bankruptcies and ownership changes and Weisman says this case certainly has its twists and turns. Read his analysis of the case here.
Talk Host Martha Zoller Mulls Run for Congress. WXKT-FM, Gainesville, Georgia-based talk host Martha Zoller tells Roll Call she’s considering a run for U.S. Congress and will make a decision within a “couple of weeks.” Population shifts are creating a new congressional district in Northern Georgia soon to be approved by the Georgia legislature and the new 9th district would be a very Republican district, according to Roll Call. Zoller tells the publication, “I’ve been a fiscal conservative my whole career. I’ve criticized Clinton budgets, Bush budgets and Obama budgets…I believe the tea party people that have been elected to Congress have represented their districts well and they need reinforcements. That’s why I’m considering this.” Zoller is heard throughout Georgia via the Georgia News Network.
Teresa Strasser Exits the KABC, Los Angeles Morning Show. LARadio’s Don Barrett reports Teresa Strasser has left the Peter Tilden morning show at Citadel’s KABC, Los Angeles. Barrett quotes KABC program director Jack Silver stating Strasser chose not to renew her contract with the station in order to focus on her TV, commercial voiceover and camera work. Strasser – known for her television work on TLC’s “While You Were Out,” her co-host position on the Adam Carolla radio show and her book Exploiting My Baby (NAL Trade 2011), became part of the Peter Tilden program in August of 2010.
Chicago Talk Radio Personality Cisco Cotto Considers Starting New Church. Cotto most recently hosted the midday show at WLS, Chicago and served on crosstown WIND’s morning show prior to that. He was replaced at WLS by Bruce Wolf and Dan Proft earlier this summer and is now thinking about starting a non-denominational church in his Chicago suburb of Oak Park. Cotto studied at the Moody Bible Institute and tells the Chicago Tribune he’s been working with the Evangelical Free Church of America to start the church and has filed the paper work for getting non-profit, tax-exempt status. Will his radio past complicate things? Cotto says, “I think I am going to be labeled ‘that guy who used to be the conservative talk show host,’ and that is going to be a significant barrier.”
2012 Presidential Race, Middle East Turmoil, Obama Economic Policy and Irene Aftermath Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (8/31). According to ongoing research from TALKERS, the 2012 presidential race, political unrest in the Middle East, President Obama’s economic policy and the aftermath of Hurricane Irene were among the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday (8/31).
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