Tag: "Dan Yorke"

Thursday, April 25, 2019

| April 25, 2019

Hubbard Radio’s All-News WTOP, Washington Takes 2018 Revenue Crown. The 2019 edition of the annual BIA Advisory Services Investing in Radio Market Report is released and accompanying that is the ranking of radio’s top revenue-earning stations from 2018. Once again, Hubbard Radio’s all-news WTOP, Washington was #1, earning $69 million in ad revenue.  As seen in the graphic above, iHeartMedia music-formatted stations in Los Angeles and New York take the next four slots.  But Entercom’s all-newsers in New York and Chicago – along with sports talk WFAN, New York – show their earning power consistency with return appearances at the same spots in the top 10.  One news/talk station – iHeartMedia’s KFI, Los Angeles – makes the list in the #10 spot as it did last year.  BIA notes that over-the-air advertising remained relatively flat at $13.3 billion (down 1.6% from $13.5 billion in 2017).  It was digital advertising platforms at local radio stations that saw revenue growth across the industry.   The report indicates digital income rose 8.1% to $923 million.  Putting over-the-air advertising together with digital revenue gave radio a 2018 revenue figure of $14.2 billion and, BIA says, “positioned radio as the fifth most significant local advertising platform, behind direct mail, mobile, online/digital, and local television.”  BIA Advisory Services SVP and chief economist Mark Fratrik states, “Although local radio stations are still important players in their markets and are managing to maintain their position in the top five advertising platforms, we do expect the OTA advertising revenue of U.S. radio stations to decrease this year by 1% to 2% and through the next few years.”  He adds that combined radio revenues will remain relatively flat for at least the next five years, while digital platforms will hit $1 billion by 2020.  See more about the report here.

PPM Analysis: Public Radio News/Talk. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his analysis of the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s March 2019 PPM survey, today zeroing in on public radio news/talk. A slight dip in weekly 6+ AQH share affects the format as 53% of stations go down and just 38% see a ratings increase from the February 2019 to the March 2019 survey.  The same situation applies to the year-over-year comparison – 53% of stations saw their 6+ number decrease from the March 2018 survey. There were four public radio news/talk stations that ranked #1 in their respective markets in March: KQED, San Francisco; KUOW, Seattle; KPBS, San Diego; and KUT, Austin.  See Mike Kinosian’s entire report here.

iHeartMedia Q1 Radio Biz Revenue Up 2.9%.  In a 10-Q filing with the Securities Exchange Commission, iHeartMedia releases financial data from the first quarter of 2019 that indicates the company’s radio and streaming revenue was $766 million, up almost 3% compared to the same period in 2018.  The company as a whole reports first quarter revenue of $1.38 billion, an increase of slightly less than 1% compared to the first quarter of 2018.  Consolidated operating income dropped from $60.9 million in Q1 2018 to $28.3 million this year due to impairment charges of $91.4 million.

SiriusXM First Quarter Pro Forma Revenue Up 10%. The acquisition of Pandora by SiriusXM adds a little wrinkle to the company’s 2019 first quarter financial report.  The company reports total revenue of $1.7 billion, an increase of 27% over the same period in 2018, that was driven by bringing Pandora into the fold.  On a pro forma basis, revenue increased 10%, hitting $1.9 billion in the first quarter.  But the Pandora acquisition impacted the company’s bottom line as net income was $162 million in Q1 of 2019, down from $289 million during the same period a year ago. During the quarter, SiriusXM added 131,000 net new self-pay subscribers, bringing its total above the 29 million mark.

TALKERS News Notes. Another major national award for Westwood One News comes on the heels of its recent National Headliner honor from the Press Club of Atlantic City. Now, the Society of Professional Journalists is bestowing its Sigma Delta Chi award upon Westwood One News for “Radio Breaking News Reporting” for the network’s coverage of the Parkland Florida School shooting and aftermath in February of 2018.  The award recognizes “resourceful and complete coverage of a major breaking news event, emphasizing both deadline reporting and continuing coverage as the story develops over succeeding days.”  Last year, Westwood One News won the honor for its coverage of the 2017 Las Vegas shooting…..Former Baltimore Ravens linebacker Jarret Johnson is joining the WBAL-AM and WIYY-FM-based Ravens Radio Network as color analyst alongside play-by-play voice Gerry Sandusky for this season.  Johnson worked on game broadcasts during the past two seasons and earns the promotion to the booth.  Cary Pahigian manages the Hearst radio stations and says, “Jarret’s NFL experience, unique insight, and enthusiasm is a major component of our superb Ravens broadcast team.”…..Bay Area public media corporation KQED announces that DeLinda Mrowka is promoted to the newly created position of chief audience officer.  In this executive role, Mrowka is “responsible for extending brand, deepening audience engagement and growth, and strengthening the membership and corporate sponsorship programs for one of the largest stations in public media.”  Mrowka started her KQED career in 2013 as the station’s executive director of marketing and communications before being promoted to vice president of corporate sponsorship in 2015.  In 2017 she was again promoted to vice president of marketing, with broad responsibilities overseeing the audience development, marketing, digital fundraising and corporate sponsorship teams.

PodcastOne Issues Request to Luminary. The subscription podcast start-up Luminary is facing the issue of a number of content creators requesting their shows be removed from its service for various reasons.  PodcastOne is one of those companies.  It made the move when it became aware that Luminary was carrying PodcastOne’s podcasts without permission.  PodcastOne executive chairman Norm Pattiz says, “Since Luminary’s focus has been promoted solely as a paid subscription model, we were surprised to see them also use the free model which they have spoken negatively about and compete against.  If they want to reach our audience to promote their site, then they should do the ‘unthinkable’ and advertise in our podcasts as hundreds of other advertisers do.”

WPG, Atlantic City’s Harry Hurley to Receive Inaugural Broadcaster of the Year Award from NJBA. Atlantic City morning drive personality Harry Hurley – heard daily on Townsquare Media’s news/talk WPGG-AM – is being honored by the New Jersey Broadcasters Association at its 71st Conference and Gala this summer with the first-ever “Broadcaster of the Year” award.  NJBA president and CEO Paul S. Rotella, Esq. says Hurley meets all of the criteria for this award “with a high degree of professionalism and a passionate dedication to his craft and the NJBA is very proud of our inaugural ‘Broadcaster of the Year’ recipient!”

Mueller Report Aftermath/Impeachment Talk, Trump vs Subpoenas, 2020 Presidential Politics/Biden Enters Race, Financial Markets Rally, Southern Border Crisis, Sri Lanka Bombings Aftermath, Putin-Kim Meeting, ‘Jeopardy!’ Record Breaker, Avengers: Endgame Film, NBA Playoffs, and MLB Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/24). The response to the release of the redacted version of the Mueller Report and Democrats’ debate over impeachment possibilities; President Trump’s rejection of subpoenas from the U.S. House; the Democrats vying to challenge Trump in 2020, including Joe Biden’s entry into the race; U.S. financial markets hit records in latest rally; the state of the migrant influx at the U.S.-Mexico border; ISIS claims responsibility for Sri Lanka bombings; Russia’s Vladimir Putin meets with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un; the record-breaking “Jeopardy!” streak by James Holzhauer; the new Marvel Comics film Avengers: Endgame; the NBA playoffs; 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.

TALKERS CONVENTION SPOTLIGHT:  Panel Discussion to Address the Challenges Facing Talk Radio by Heightened Political Correctness.  One of the many highlights planned for the forthcoming Talkers 2019: Telling the Story on Friday, June 7 in New York City will be an extremely timely and pertinent panel discussion focusing on the challenges being faced by talk radio during the current era of heightened political correctness.  Titled “Talk Radio in the Era of ‘Watch What You Say,’” the session will feature panelists Michael Berry, host, “The Michael Berry Show”; Grace Blazer, national brand coordinator, news/talk/sports programming and director of AM programming Miami/Fort Lauderdale, iHeart Media; Brett Winterble, host KFMB-AM, San Diego; Larry Young, host, WOLB-AM, Baltimore; and Dan Yorke, host WPRO-AM, Providence. The session will be moderated by Bill Hess, VP of news/talk, Cumulus Media and program director, WMAL, Washington, DC.  Talk radio depends on the free-wheeling exchange of ideas, tolerance for controversy, and, most important, a healthy understanding of and respect for the First Amendment in order to operate effectively. These tenets are clearly under assault in the age of advertiser boycotts, righteous indignation and widespread hypocrisy.  This session will earnestly attempt to identify the issues at play and offer solutions to overcome the challenges and obstacles they present. Don’t miss this session!  The TALKERS convention is rapidly heading toward being an early sellout.  To see the entire up-to-the-minute agenda and registration/hotel information, please click here.

Music Radio News and Career Moves. Phoenix classic hits outlet KOOL-FM adds market radio personality Dee Garcia to its morning drive “The Niko Show” with host Nicholaus “Niko” Petrou.  She joins the Entercom station after having worked in the Valley at such stations as hot AC KMVA-FM and hip hop KKFR.  She says of her new gig, “I am honored to join Niko on ‘The Niko Show’ on KOOL.  Niko and [producer Abe] are positive, fun, and hardworking.  They are exactly the kind of people that you want to share your mornings with.”…..Alpha Media’s hot AC KEEZ, Mankato, Minnesota “Mix 99.1” names Zannie Kaye program director and morning drive personality.  Cluster operations manager Jeff Spence says, “We are more than excited to add Zannie Kaye to our Alpha Mankato team as our new host for the ‘Mix 99.1’ morning show and PD duties.  Zannie has a lot of experience and has had a terrific career in lots of different markets, including Minneapolis.  His energy is contagious and his warm and funny nature will win fans over immediately.”…..SummitMedia appoints sales pro Larry Jennings general sales manager for its Birmingham, Alabama stations that include: urban contemporary WBHK “98.7 KISS FM,” hip hop WBHJ “95.7 JAMZ,” and Gospel WAGG-AM “HEAVEN 610.” SummitMedia market president John Walker says, “Larry is exactly the professional we were looking for to lead our outstanding team. He has a proven track record of team building, talent development, client relations, community involvement, and revenue performance.”…..Beasley Media Group’s Philadelphia rock station WMMR-FM signs morning team “Preston and Steve” – Preston Elliot and Steve Morrison – to a new, multiyear contract extension.  The duo joined WMMR in May of 2005 and Beasley says the show has “maintained the top-rated morning show position in Philadelphia” since it launched.  The company says the show has “led the way in embracing innovative multi-platform initiatives, including creating daily, full-show and highlight episode podcasts, inventing their own ringtone service, producing daily/weekly video programs, and cultivating a formidable social media audience.”  Pictured below (from l-r) are: agent Glenn Goldstein, BBGI president Bruce Beasley, Beasley Media Group CEO Caroline Beasley, Elliot, Morrison, Beasley Philly market manager Joe Bell, Beasley EVP of strategy and innovation Buzz Knight, and Beasley rock format brand manager Bill Weston.  Photo: BP Miller/Chorus Photography

Tuesday, October 24, 2017

| October 24, 2017

FCC Votes to Eliminate Main Studio Rule on Party Line.  The Democrats on the Federal Communications Commission are not happy about it but broadcasters are cheering the Commission’s 3-2 vote today (10/24) that eliminated the broadcast main studio rule.  The Order retains the requirement that stations maintain a local or toll-free telephone number to ensure consumers have ready access to their local stations.  The 80-year-old rule was designed to “facilitate input from community members and the station’s participation in community activities.”  But, Republicans argued that the rule was outdated and an unnecessary burden.  They argue that the repeal of the rule should “produce substantial cost-saving benefits for broadcasters that can be directed toward such things as programming, equipment upgrades, newsgathering, and other services that benefit consumers.  It will also make it easier for broadcasters to prevent stations in small towns from going dark and to launch new stations in rural areas.”

MacGunnigle Named APD at WPRO-AM, Providence.  At the Providence Cumulus Media cluster, staffer Doug MacGunnigle is promoted to assistant program director for “NewsTalk 99.7 FM and AM 630” (WPRO-AM/WEAN-FM) and sister business talk station WPRV.  Previously, MacGunnigle had been serving as producer and digital content director.  MacGunnigle has produced talk shows at WPRO for Steve Kass, Ron St. Pierre, Arlene Violet, and Dan Yorke.  MacGunnigle started his career at WPRO in 2002.  After stints at other media outlets in the area, he returned to WPRO in May 2015 and has served as producer of the Matt Allen show.  WPRO and WPRV program director Neil Larrimore says, “Doug has been an integral part of WPRO-AM and WPRV-AM for many years and has served as a backbone through a particularly tough period of change over the last 24 months.  It’s the perfect time to start him on the next step of his career.  I’m proud to name him as assistant program director.”

Industry Luminaries to Induct National Radio Hall of Famers.  When this year’s inductees are enshrined in the National Radio Hall of Fame on November 2, they’ll be presented by leaders in the industry.  The 29th Annual National Radio Hall of Fame Induction ceremony takes place at the Museum of Broadcast Communications in Chicago (it will also be broadcast commercial free via TuneIn).  This year, Entercom president and CEO David Field will induct his father, Entercom founder Joseph Field; on-air legend Scott Shannon will induct Premiere Networks superstar Sean Hannity; iHeartCountry chief Rod Phillips will induct Premiere’s country morning star Bobby Bones; Cumulus Media VP of classic rock Scott Jameson will induct KQRS, Minneapolis morning icon Tom Barnard; Chicago media star Bob Sirott will induct pioneering disc jockey John Records Landecker; iHeartMedia West president Greg Ashlock will induct KFI, Los Angeles morning personality Bill Handel; and St. Louis talk host Ryan Wrecker will accept induction for the late Bob Sievers.  National Radio Hall of Fame chairman Kraig T. Kitchin says, “We’re pleased to have such talented and accomplished presenters joining us on this special night and happy that those who can’t attend won’t miss a beat thanks to TuneIn.”

TALKERS News Notes. The new ESPN2 television show “Barstool Van Talk” – from Barstool Sports – has been canceled after its first airing, but not because of the show itself.  The TV program was based on the podcast “Pardon My Take” starring Barstool Sports’ Dan “Big Cat” Katz and PFT Commenter.  But the connection to Barstool Sports – known for misogynistic humor – was too much for ESPN president John Skipper, who stated in a press release, “Effective immediately, I am cancelling ‘Barstool Van Talk.’  While we had approval on the content of the show, I erred in assuming we could distance our efforts from the Barstool site and its content.”…..Pictured at right is Salem Radio Network v.p./News & Talk Programming Tom Tradup (center) on the set of the film, God’s Not Dead 3 in Little Rock, Arkansas.  He’s standing with actor and producer David A.R. White (left) and John Corbett (right) best known as co-star of My Big Fat Greek Wedding…..A live radio broadcast of Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Black Cat,” – a tale of murder and supernatural revenge – is being produced for Husson University’s WHSN-FM, Bangor, Maine.  It will be performed live from the Gracie Theatre on Thursday, October 26 at 7:30 pm.  The program is billed as “Tales of Mystery and Imagination” and features a cast of Husson University students and local residents and it’s free and open to the public…..At left is famed director Rob Reiner (left) sitting with ABC News chief White House correspondent Jonathan Karl (right) and ABC News political director Rick Klein (center) recording their “Powerhouse Politics” podcast.  The program was video-streamed live as Reiner joined the program to talk about his latest film, the historically themed LBJ…..iHeartMedia announces the addition of “The Fatherly Podcast” to the iHeartRadio digital platform.  The program is hosted by veteran journalist, children’s book author, and father of two, Joshua David Stein and is a weekly show about raising children and the lives of men who take on that responsibility.  Each episode is built around a wide-ranging interview with a notable father.  Guests include Emmy Award-winner Sterling K. Brown, documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, and NFL Hall of Famer Michael Strahan.

Trump Tax Plan, North Korea Nuclear Threats, Sessions Announces MS-13 Efforts, Niger Ambush Investigation, Uranium One Probe, Sexual Harassment/O’Reilly-Weinstein Cases, California Wildfires, Xi Jinping Cements Power, World Series, and NFL Ratings, Protests, and Action Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (10/23).  The Trump Administration’s plan for tax reform; North Korea’s stockpiling of weapons and talk of nuclear war; Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ announcement that the DOJ is using more legal weapons to prosecute MS-13 gang members; the investigation into what when wrong at the Niger ambush of U.S. forces; allegations that the Obama Administration’s deal with Russian firm Uranium One benefitted the Clinton Foundation; sexual harassment in the workplace and the high-profile Harvey Weinstein and Bill O’Reilly cases; the destruction from Northern California’s wildfires and the struggle to contain them; “Xi Jinping Thought” is enshrined into China’s communist constitution, ensuring he’ll rule as long as he’s healthy; the Dodgers-Astros World Series; and National Football League ratings, anthem protests and 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.  Programming pro Bobby Novosad is promoted to program director for Cumulus Media’s country KXKC-FM, Lafayette, Louisiana “NASH FM 99.1.”  Novosad continues his duties as brand manager and morning host at sister CHR KSMB.  Cumulus Media Lafayette vice president and market manager Scott Chiasson says, “I am very excited to promote Bobby to program director of KXKC ‘NASH FM 99.1.’  Bobby has been a generational staple in the Lafayette metro area and is a fantastic radio guy.  His deep experience and understanding of the way a winning station should sound is already having an impact.  This is great for Bobby, Cumulus, our loyal listeners and the community we serve.”…..Thirty-one year radio pro Darrel Eason is appointed to the program director position at Salem Media Group’s urban Gospel KXFN/K236CS, St. Louis “Praise 95.1.”  Eason is also hosting “The Morning Praise” from 6:00 am to 10:00 am.  Eason was previously the programmer at iHeartMedia’s crosstown KATZ-AM “Hallelujah 1600.”…..Former WGNA, Albany personality Marissa Lanchak announces via Facebook that she’s the new night jock at Beasley Media’s country WKLB, Boston.  She wrote, “It’s taken a lot of bumps in the last couple of years to get to this spot.  But I’m proud to say that I’ve accepted the night show position at Country 102.5 Boston’s Hottest Country!”…..Beasley Media Group’s adult hits WBEN-FM, Philadelphia announces Twister Sister lead singer Dee Snider will be the guest host of “95.7 BEN FM’s Halloween Hair Ball” on Saturday, October 28.  Snider will play the top 50 greatest hair band hits of the 80s as chosen by the 95.7 BEN FM listeners – all commercial free!  Station program director Chuck Damico comments, “We came up with the idea of letting listeners choose their favorite scary, hairy hits of the 80s and running them back countdown style for people’s Halloween parties.  There’s only one perfect host that makes sense for that – Dee Snider!  He’s an 80s rocker, a radio pro and Philly loves him!  We’re thrilled to have Dee party with ‘95.7 BEN FM’ for the Halloween weekend.”

Luke Bryan Chats with Shawn and Elaina. It was a big day for country stars in person at Cumulus Media’s NASH Campus in Nashville as Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney, and Chris Lane all stopped by to chat on the “NASH Nights Live” program.  Pictured above is Bryan (left) with show co-stars Elaina Smith (center) and Shawn Parr (right).

CBS’ ‘We Can Survive’ Concert Rocks Hollywood Bowl.  Pictured above is pop star Kesha performing onstage at the Hollywood Bowl at CBS RADIO’s We Can Survive 2017 benefit concert on Saturday (10/21).  Other performers included: Alessia Cara, Harry Styles, Khalid, Lorde, Macklemore, P!nk, Sam Hunt, and Sam Smith, plus a surprise performance by Niall Horan. The show was hosted in support of breast cancer awareness and benefits the Young Survival Coalition, the premier organization dedicated to the critical issues unique to young women who are diagnosed with breast cancer.  Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images for CBS RADIO.

Friday, April 22, 2016

| April 22, 2016

yorkedanWPRO, Providence Names Dan Yorke PM Drive Host.  Three months after the death of colorful afternoon talk show host Buddy Cianci, Cumulus Media named Dan Yorke Cianci’s replacement inwpro logo afternoon drive.  This is familiar territory for Yorke, who served as PM drive personality for years prior to Cianci’s joining the station.  Yorke has been the midday host and his move bumps temporary PM drive host Tara Granahan to the evening daypart – 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm.  Current evening host and longtime station producer Matt Allen is upped to the midday host role.  The other hosts at the station remain in their places – Gene Vallicente in morning drive and John DePetro in the late morning roles.

Hubbard’s ‘myTalk 107.1’ Dedicates Programming to Passing of Prince.  The passing of music legendprincemyTalkbillboard Prince on Thursday (4/21) at the age of 57 has stunned fans and the music community alike, and tributes are taking place on many music stations.  Special programs are being offered by radio networks, as well.  But at Hubbard Radio’s Minneapolis female-targeted talk outlet KTMY “myTalk 107.1,” the station went all-Prince upon the news of his death.  Hubbard Radio VP and market manager Dan Seeman tells TALKERS, “‘myTalk covered the news, but princebillboardmayomore importantly, it covered our listeners’ reactions to the news.  It was a very emotional day.”  The station used digital billboard technology to quickly react and show its listeners that it was talking about the story “now.”  At left, you can see the billboard perched atop the city’s famed Mayo Clinic yesterday.  Additionally, the station was very quick to put insightful and locally flavored Prince-related content up on its website.  Check that out here.

wabc logoNoam Laden Appointed WABC, New York News Director.  New York news/talk 77 WABC announces the appointment of Noam Laden as the station’s news director.  Laden has been with WABC for the past seven years, most recently hosting the early morningladennoam “News Hour with Noam Laden,” and writing and anchoring the station’s news from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon. Now, Laden is tapped to lead the news department as news director.  In a memo to staff, program director Craig Schwalb says Laden will help him tackle the news operation’s priorities, including: digital news functions, adding news content to the station’s website; weekend news enhancements; and more.  Schwalb says, “This is a fantastic step for our team and it is all about making WABC even stronger in news content and coverage.”

The Presidential Race/New York Primary Top Talk Story for Week of April 18-22.  Not surprisingly, the activities of the candidates for president and this week’s important New York primary election dominated the discussion on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM.  At #2 this week was President Obama’s trip to Saudi Arabia.  Coming in at #3 was Russia’s increased military activity and following at #4 was the proposed change replacing Andrew Jackson with abolitionist Harriet Tubman on the $20 bill.  The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.  It is published every Friday at Talkers.com.  View this week’s entire chart here.

NBC Sports Radio Unveils Sunday Night Show with Pabst and Perloff.  Sports media pros Paul Pabst and Andrew Perloff are both producers and personalities on DirecTV’s Dan Patrick show – Pabst for the past pabstpaul12 years and Perloff for nine.  Beginning this Sunday night, they’ll debut “The Leisuremen: Pabst & Perloff,” from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm ET.  NBC Sports Radio says the show “will touch on a wide range ofperloffandrew topics that go wildly beyond sports – from food, drink, cars, travel, and money to how to properly wear plaid pants.”  Pabst has worked at CBS Sports, CBS Radio News, ESPN, and SiriusXM.  He’s also written for Sports Illustrated and ESPN Magazine.  Perloff has served as a writer, editor, and producer for Sports Illustrated, FOXSports.com, NFL, MLB.com, and the YES Network.

Odds & Sods.  In consideration for the “hardest working man in talk radio” title is WHO, Des Moines-basedconwaysimon personality Simon Conway.  Today (4/22), Conway is hosting his morning show on WMT, Cedar Rapids; his afternoon show on WHO; then will sit in for the Compass Media Networks-syndicated Joe Pags show…..Chris Hill, host of the “Motley Fool Money” radio show, checks in to tell TALKERS that his show is now available on Spotify and Google Play.  The latter launched this week and Spotify recently added spoken word content to its menu of entertainment…..Dita Holifield is promoted from her director of sales position to general manager for the Salem Media’s Honolulu station group.

hermanscottQuaal16Scott Herman Receives 2016 Ward L. Quaal Leadership Award.  At a breakfast ceremony at the NAB Show in Las Vegas on Wednesday, CBS RADIO chief operating officer Scott Herman was presented with the 2016 Ward L. Quaal Leadership Award by the Broadcasters Foundation of America.  The Broadcasters Foundation has distributed millions of dollars in aid to members of the industry who have lost their livelihood through a catastrophic event, debilitating disease or unforeseen tragedy.  Pictured (l – r) are: CBS RADIO president Andre Fernandez, Herman’s wife Beth, Herman, and BFoA chairman Philip J. Lombardo.

Thursday, July 2, 2015

| July 2, 2015

2015 NYC 150Talkers New York 2015 ‘Navigating a Talk Show Hosting Career’ Panel Video Posted Today. One of the most interesting panel discussions of the Talkers New York 2015 mega-conference (held on June 12) is posted today on Talkers TV.  Moderated by WMAL, Washington, DC PD and recently-appointed Cumulus Media corporate PD/talk Bill Hess and introduced by WBAL, Baltimore host Jimmy Mathis — the informative session includes (in alphabetical order): Mandy Connell, host, KHOW, Denver/WHAS, Louisville; McGraw Milhaven, host, KTRS, St. Louis; Larry O’Conner, host WMAL, Washington, DC; Todd Schnitt, WOR, New York/Compass Media Networks; David Webb, host, SiriusXM Satellite Radio; and Dan Yorke, host WPRO, Providence.  The panel covers a wide variety of issues pertaining to being a professional talk radio host – drawing upon the speakers’ personal experiences — including breaking into the business (each tells his/her own story); working at multiple stations doing separate shows; doing separate local and national shows; performing on both radio and television; simulcasting on multi-media platforms; using social and digital media for brand extension; creating digital-specific content; working productively with sales; dealing with ongoing corporate changes; being entrepreneurial to protect your career and financial options; overcoming challenges faced by women in the business; breaking through listener confusion in a noisy world; keeping it fresh and preventing topic burnout; making due with diminishing support personnel; and negotiating conflicts with management, plus more.  To view the video in its entirety, please click here.

kinosianmikeProfile: Bold Gold Media Group CEO Vince Benedetto.  TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a profile of Vince Benedetto, chief executive officer of the 10-year-old radio company Bold Gold Media Group.  To say Benedetto is bullish on radio is an understatement.  The former U.S. Air Force captain tells Kinosian he can’t believe so many people in the industry are such naysayers about its future.  “There is an explosion of audio consumption because it is even easier tobenedettovince consume.  It is so strangely un-entrepreneurial to live in a world where audio demand and consumption is exploding, yet so many in our industry act as if it is the end of the world.”  Benedetto began building his radio portfolio with the acquisition of four signals in the Catskill Mountains and Pocono Lake Region and grew into the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre market from there.  He says, “There are things about radio that other businesses do not have as strengths.  One is that you are not warehousing things, so you get to refresh your inventory every day. Radio’s margins are very good and you can get involved in many businesses all at once.  If you do it correctly, you learn about many different kinds of businesses.  It was exciting to me that I knew radio was about to go through many changes.”  Read the entire piece here.

audioboom logoCumulus Media and Audioboom Announce Partnership.  This deal will allow Cumulus to use Audioboom’s SaaS platform for its content across station websites and mobile apps.  Cumulus CEO Lew Dickey says, “This exciting new partnership marries Cumulus’ and Westwood One’s best-in-class local and national content with Audioboom’s industry-leading technology and distribution capabilities.  Radio is America’s number-one reach medium, and as listeners continue to increase their consumption of audio, thiscumulus logo partnership allows for new ways for consumers to explore and engage with the radio stations and on-air talent they know and love today.  Additionally, from an advertising perspective, the short-form and on-demand digital medium provides a unique and effective way for brands to activate consumers.”  As part of the deal, Westwood One will sell the advertising within the digital platform and Audioboom will get a share of the revenue.  Audioboom CEO Rob Proctor comments, “This partnership represents a major step-change in our plans for monetization, and as we see the full rollout of our platform across the entire USA, we expect to benefit from a considerable increase in monthly listens and registered users, but also a steady flow of advertising revenues.”  The two companies are also expected to collaborate on original audio content to be distributed online.

cbssmallbusinesspulseCBS Launches ‘Small Business Pulse’ Platform.  The new digital destination is an aggregation of CBS content that’s designed to target small business owners.  Dubbed “CBS Small Business Pulse,” the site is a creation of the CBS Local Digital Media division.  President Ezra Kucharz says, “CBS Small Business Pulse brings together the best content from across many CBS divisions plus new, original editorial on the topics that matter most to small business owners.  CBS Small Business Pulse will provide the insights and knowledge small business owners need to immediately solve the challenges they face by delivering daily, easily digestible information across myriad topics that can easily be put into action.”

coachktownhall15WCMC, Raleigh Conducts Third ‘Fan Town Hall’ with Duke’s Coach K.  The event takes place tonight on WRAL-TV, Raleigh with WCMC “99.9 The Fan” personality Joe Ovies joining WRAL-TV’s Jeff Gravley for an hour-long “Fan Town Hall” featuring Duke basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski tonight from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm.  The public is not allowed to attend the event but Gravley and Ovies will sprinkle in questions submitted by the public via social media using #FanTownHall.  WCMC-FM programmer Dennis Glasgow says “Capitol Broadcasting continues to give unprecedented access to some of the Triangle’s most accomplished sports figures, and Coach K is no exception.  We know how passionate sports fans are in North Carolina, and it’s important to us for the fan base to have social media access so that they can ask questions to the all-time winningest coach in college basketball history.”

Odds & Sods.  Two KTSA, San Antonio personalities are being inducted into the San Antonio Radio Hall of Famewaretrey this year.  Longtime morning drive personality Trey Ware and traffic reporter (and voice/imaging pro) Johnny Shannon will be honored at a ceremony next month…..Longtime KFYI, Phoenix radio personality (and husband and business partner of WestStar Radio Network principal Kim Komando) youngbarryBarry Young is one of four broadcasters to be enshrined in the Arizona Broadcasters Hall of Fame this fall.  Being honored on October 15 along with Young are Bill Buckmaster, Tom Dillon and Maurie Helle…..Entercom is expecting to close on its purchase of the Lincoln Financial Media stations very soon but one programming change taking place is LFM-owned Atlanta sports talk WQXI’s loss of its ESPN affiliation.  Dickey Broadcasting-owned WFOM (licensed to suburban Marietta) will become the new ESPN Radio affiliate, effective August 17…..PodcastOne is reporting that the four-week-old Shaquille O’Neal podcast has been holding the #1 spot on the iTunes Sports Charts for the past three weeks.  PodcastOne also says the advertising industry is supporting the podcast with Mazda, Vonage, Draft Kings and True Car becoming sponsors.

TALKERS Weekly Affiliate Roundup.  “Free Talk Live” with Ian Freeman and Mark Edge is now heard on new affiliates KKFT-FM, Reno and KEEL-AM, Shreveport, Louisiana…..The Envision Networks-syndicated “John and Leah Show” with John Ziegler and Leah Brandon adds new affiliates: WNIR-FM, Akron; WNYM, New York; WNTP, Philadelphia; WRGA, Atlanta; WHAS, Louisville; KKFT-FM, Reno; and WMEL-AM, Cocoa Beach, Florida.

hurleyHarryrddedication15Harry Hurley Way Dedicated.  Pictured here is WPGG, Atlantic City morning drive personality Harry Hurley (at podium) speaking at the dedication of St. David’s Pl. in Atlantic City as Harry Hurley Way.  Hurley tells TALKERS magazine that he took the opportunity to surprise Atlantic City Mayor Don Guardian (back row, left) by presenting his honor with the New Jersey Broadcasters Association 2015 Crystal Award for the “Ask The Mayor” program that airs on WPGG.

2016 Presidential Prospects, Fourth of July Terror Threats, Trump’s Pageant Troubles-NYC Contracts Being Reviewed, Hillary Clinton Emails Investigation, Obama Re-Establishes Cuba Diplomatic Ties, ISIS Atrocities, Greek Debt Crisis/EU Tensions, Jim Carrey Bashes California Vaccine Law, and Global Warming Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (7/1).  The candidates for president in 2016; concerns over threats of Fourth of July terror attacks; Donald Trump’s legal issues with the Miss America and Miss Universe pageants and NYC’s review of his contracts; the ongoing investigation into Hillary Clinton’s use of private email for State Department business; President Obama re-establishes diplomatic relations with Cuba; the latest reports of barbaric activities from ISIS; the Greek debt problem, its fate in the EU and effects on global financial markets; Jim Carrey blasts California Governor Jerry Brown over vaccine law; and talk about the state of climate change were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday.

Friday, April 24, 2015

| April 24, 2015

swansonjackJack Swanson to Lead KCBS, San Francisco Programming.  Legendary spoken-word programmer Jack Swanson is named director of news and programming for KCBS “All News Radio 740AM and 106.9FM.”  CBS RADIO SVP and market manager Doug Harvill says, “Jack has a distinguished track record of leading iconic radio stations.  He’s a terrific leader with a deep understanding of how a marketkcbs-am logo leading station such as KCBS can be a trusted and active member of its community.”  Swanson served for years as vice president of programming at Cumulus Media’s KGO and KSFO, San Francisco.  He began his radio career as a news anchor/reporter for WLS, Chicago before becoming the news and program director for KGO, San Francisco.  From there he became president and general manager for KING-FM, Seattle.  He says, “Being asked to lead one of the best news teams in the country is one of those rare situations that don’t present themselves often.  I’m looking forward to contributing to the amazing growth of this legendary station in the years ahead.”

CBS RadiFruge, Thomas Involved in CBS Radio Programming Changes. Concurrent with CBS Radio Las Vegas vice president of programming Charese Fruge transferring to Houston for similar duties (and to be operations manager there), the company promotes Cat Thomas to succeed Fruge in Las Vegas. Thomas will continue as day-to-day programmer of Las Vegas’ KXTE “X107.5 – Alternative First”; talk KXNT AM & FM; and KXST “CBS Sports Radio 1140.” Senior vice president and CBS Radio Houston market manager Sarah Frazier comments, “Charese is a talented programmer and leader. Her longstanding relationships in the music industry, passion for radio, and ability to create special experiences for the listener are an integral part of why she is such a great fit for Houston. We are thrilled to have her join the Houston team, as we continue to grow and build upon our brands under her guidance.” Frugefrugecharese remarks, “This role is the opportunity of a lifetime and a chance to finally be back in the south. I am honored and am looking forward to working with the Houston team to help take these amazing brands to the next level. I have made lifelong friends in Las Vegas and appreciate them always making me look good.” Meanwhile, senior vice president and CBS Radio Las Vegas market manager Jerry McKenna states, “Cat Thomas is a veteran programming executive whose experience in this market is unmatched. He has thomascatsuccessfully programmed [CHR] KLUC for the better part of two decades and most recently, has been the driving force behind the success of our spoken-word brands. Our stations are in very capable hands.” According to Thomas, “This is a dream come true. We have the biggest brands in the market. I have loved this group since we put these stations together in 1996. None of this would be possible without the passion of our staff. As [the late Ohio State University football coach] Woody Hayes said, ‘You win with people,’ and we have great people from top to bottom.” A member of the Nevada Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame, Fruge will oversee programming for hot AC KHMX “Mix 96.5”; sports outlets KIKK-AM and KILT-AM; country KILT-FM “The Bull”; CHR KKHH “Hot 95-7”; and Spanish contemporary KLOL “Mega 101.” She starts her new assignment – which will include day-to-day PD responsibilities for “Mix” and “Hot” – one week from Monday (5/4). Her resume includes on-air and programming stops in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, San Diego, Denver, and New Orleans. In addition to KXTE, KXNT AM & FM, and KXST, Ohio State University alum Thomas will oversee CHR KLUC “Las Vegas’ #1 Hit Music Station” and hot AC KMXB “Mix 94.1.” Eight years after being night personality at KLUC, Thomas was elevated to program director (1996); he became PD of KXNT AM & FM, KXST, and KXTE last year. Similar to Fruge, Thomas’ first day on his new job is one week from Monday (5/4). Elsewhere at CBS Radio Las Vegas, KLUC assistant program director John “J.B. King” Bernard is promoted to program director and “Mix” assistant program director/music director Jonathan “J. Love” Campbell is boosted to PD of that station. Bernard joined KLUC 17 years ago and has been APD since 2001. He previously worked in San Francisco, Phoenix, and Sacramento. With CBS Radio Las Vegas the past three years, Campbell formerly programmed in Providence, Oxnard-Ventura (California), and Reno (Nevada).

carrhowieThe Howie Carr New England Juggernaut Rolls On.  In a remarkable display of just how potent an independent regional talk radio network can be, radio/newspaper/author phenomenon Howie Carr continues to expand the reach of his Howie Carr Radio Network north into New Hampshire and southeast into Connecticut.  Bringing the growing lineup to 22 radio stations (including flagship WRKO, Boston) are WASR, Wolfeboro, New Hampshire as well as Connecticut’s WMRD, Middletown and WLIS, Old Saybrook.  On penetrating the Nutmeg State, Carr tells TALKERS, “I’ve always had a sizable audience inwliswmrd logo Connecticut, and I’m happy that my listeners there can now find me even more easily.  As a kid, I wanted to go to Wesleyan, and now I’m in Middletown — and Old Saybrook.”  Don DeCesare, president/GM of WLIS/WMRD adds, “We’re thrilled to have Howie Carr as part of our onair lineup.  Howie has been New England’s voice for years.  We’re proud to add that voice now and be his stations in Connecticut.”  Regarding this latest expansion of Carr’s network, TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison states, “It is only going to be a matter of months before the flood dam bursts and Howie Carr becomes a major national host eventually heard in all 50 states.  He is at the top of his game.”  Meet Howie Carr at Talkers New York 2015 on Friday, June 12.  The annual conference is on the verge of a sellout.  For registration and sponsorship information call 413-565-5413 or click here.

medvedmichaelSalem Radio Network Welcomes Michael Medved Back. It’s a gradual return to his daily, syndicated talk radio show, but Michael Medved is slowly working his way back after treatment for throat cancer.  Medved announced his hiatus from the program back on January 30.  Now, SRN VP/news & talk programming Tom Tradup says, “We are SO grateful to have Michael Medved transitioning back into his SRN talk show.  Monday he appeared by phone, and Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday he has been in his Seattle studio, hosting guests like U.S. Senator John McCain for discussion of today’s Obama apology for U.S. raids killing two hostages, plus the Senate confirmation of Loretta Lynch as Attorney General of the United States.”  Medved has been a nationally syndicated host for the past 18 years.

nj1015BattleshipNJJim Gearhart and New Jersey 101.5 Morning Show to Broadcast from Battelship New Jersey.  In recognition of Memorial Day, WKXW, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” morning host Jim Gearhart and the rest of the morning show will broadcast from the deck of the Battleship New Jersey on May 22.  In a letter inviting listeners to attend the broadcast, Gearhart writes, in part, “While the nation celebrates the start of summer this year, I invite you, your family and friends to honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans and active military during a special live broadcast of the ‘New Jersey 101.5 Morning Show’ aboard America’s most decorated battleship.  The morning show team will be on the deck of Battleship New Jersey, located on the waterfront in Camden on Friday, May 22 joined by veterans, honor guards, military agencies and state dignitaries for patriotic music, discussions and storytelling…As a Naval veteran and the father of two enlisted men, it is my privilege to commemorate our military this Memorial Day Weekend, and I encourage all active and retired servicemen and women, as well as civilians, to come enjoy the show and share their appreciation for those who make America the land of the free and home of the brave.”

TALKERS Weekly Affiliate Update.  The Genesis Communications Network-syndicated Dr. Joy Brownebrownejoy show is added to the program schedule on WOMI, Owensboro, Kentucky…..Tom Gresham’s greshamtom“Gun Talk” adds new affiliate stations WCGO, Evanston, Illinois; WMXI-FM, Laurel, Mississippi; KFEQ, Saint Joseph, Missouri; and KELY, Ely, Nevada to its roster…..AdLarge Media reports “The National Marijuana News” program is added to the lineup at: WHIG, Colorado Springs; WPEK-AM, Asheville, North Carolina; and WNOS, New Bern, North Carolina…..Christian radio offering “The HopeLine with Dawson McAllister” is two months into syndication and already heard on nearly 100 stations including recent new affiliates: WGEN-FM, Chicago and the MyGen Radio Network; WTRJ-FM, Jacksonville; and WCLN-FM, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

talkersten logoIran Nuclear Negotiations Tops Talkers TenTM for Week of April 20-24.  The negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program were the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio during the week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM.  At #2 was the ISIS violence tied with the military action taking place in Yemen.  Coming in at #3 was the 2016 presidential prospects tied with the scrutiny of the operation of the Clinton Foundation, followed by the death of two hostages at the hands of American drones at #4.  The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.  It is published every Friday at Talkers.com.  View this week’s entire chart here.

Friday, March 6, 2015

| March 6, 2015

beasley logo longBeasley Reports 2014 Q4 Pro Forma Net Revenue Dips 4.3%.  Getting an accurate picture of the fourth quarter – not to mention the total of 2014 – is a bit dicey because of the asset exchange between Beasley and CBS RADIO.  But as Beasley chairman and CEO George Beasley says in the press release, “On a reported basis, fourth quarter net revenue from continuing operations rose 23.5% and SOI [station operating income] increased 14.6%, while operating income of $1.8 million was impacted by $1.7beasleygeorge million of transaction and termination expenses related to the Asset Exchange and otherwise would have compared favorably with the $2.8 million in the comparable year ago period.  However, given the required accounting treatment for discontinued operations, the results include only one month of operations from the stations we received in the asset exchange, while excluding the results of the stations we gave up in the transaction.  As a result, we believe a pro forma presentation, which assumes the asset exchange occurred on January 1, 2013, better reflects the operating results.  On a pro forma basis, fourth quarter net revenue decreased 4.3% to $28.9 million while SOI declined 8.0% to $9.2 million.  Importantly, while the fourth quarter pro forma presentation allows for a comparison of the same stations during both periods, it does not reflect our recently initiated and planned format and personnel changes in Tampa as well as expense reductions in Tampa and Charlotte, the benefits of which we expect will be reflected in our results as we move through 2015 and into 2016.”

kkfn logo20 Years of KKFN Sports Talk in Denver Being Recognized.  This Monday (3/9), Lincoln Financial Media will celebrate 20 years of sports talk in Denver on KKFN.  The format is now heard on KKFN-FM “104.3 The Fan,” but debuted in 1994 on KKFN-AM.  The special broadcast will feature several former personalities and athletes who have been part of the two-decade history.  The station’s original lineup included: the Fabulous Sports Babe (Nanci Donnellan), Woody Paige & Todd Mansfield, Doug Moe & Tom Green and Jeff Reckard.  On Monday the station will welcome back former Fan personalities Woody Paige, Tom Green, Dan Issel, Charles Johnson, Irv Brown and Joe Williams.  They will be joined by Rockies radio announcer Jerry Schemmel.  The station’s current lineup is: “The Fan Morning Show with Mike Evans, Nate Lundy and Vic Lombardi” (5:30 am to 9:00 am), Dan Patrick (9:00 am to 12:00  noon), Sandy Clough and Scott Hastings (12:00 noon to 3:00 pm), “The Drive”­ with Alfred “Big Al” Williams and Darren “D-Mac” McKee (3:00 pm to 9:00 pm) and “The Fan Late Night” with Ryan Edwards and Shawn Drotar (9:00 pm to 12:00 midnight).  “The Fan” will also hold an anniversary party on Thursday, March 26, at the Sports Column in downtown Denver.  Listeners will get the chance to celebrate with members of “The Fan” on-air staff and celebrities.

iheartmedia logo smalliHeartMedia Names Charlie Wilkinson Dallas Market President.   Moving to Texas from his most recent position with the company as regional president overseeing Charlotte and Raleigh, Charlie Wilkinson becomes market president of iHeartMedia’s six Dallas properties.  EVP of operations – Texas majors Kelly Kibler comments, “Charlie has exceeded expectations and consistently raises the bar.  He has proven his ability to create and lead winning teams.  I’m confident he will continue to deliver consistent integrated revenue growth for the Dallas cluster.”  Former market president, Deidre Richter, will join iHeartMedia’s national sales team and will report to Jeff Howard, president of national sales.  Richter will lead the South Central Connections Team.

Odds & Sods.  At the Cromwell Group’s Nashville sports talk duo “94.9 The Game 2” — WQZQ-AM and W235BW – morning drive co-host Joe Dubin leaves the station and partner Greg Pogue to return to television sports as sports anchor on WSMV-TV, Nashville, effective March 30…..This weekend begins Westwood One Sports’ presentation of a slate of exclusive women’s college basketball broadcasts this month.  It gets underway Sunday with the Pac-12 Women’s Championship game andwestwood one sports culminating with the Women’s Final Four and National Championship in Tampa on April 7.  On Tuesday, March 10, WW1 broadcasts the Big East Women’s Championship, live from Allstate Arena in Chicago.  CBS Sports Radio talk-show host Amy Lawrence has the play-by-play, along with former University of Connecticut All-American Swin Cash as the analyst…..Salem Media Group New York brings Chief of Robotic Surgery at Lenox Hill Hospital, Dr. David Samadi, to the staff serving as chief medical correspondent for news/talk WNYM “AM 970 The Answer” and Christian talk WMCA “AM 570 The Mission.”  Additionally, Dr. Samadi will host the new program “World Health News with Dr. Samadi,” airing Sundays from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

curtiskubyroast15Curtis & Kuby Roast Takes Place Monday in NYC.  Gotham Comedy Club will be the site of the Curtis & Kuby Roast on Monday, March 9 at 7:00 pm.  The duo – heard daily in middays on Cumulus Media’s WABC – will be in attendance as Roast Master Rich Vos (featured on Comedy Central, HBO, and Showtime) hosts a night of no-holds-barred comedy in honor of talk radio odd couple Curtis Sliwa and Ron Kuby.  Comedians Kurt Metzger, Bonnie McFarlane, Geno Bisconte, Aaron Berg, and The Stone Brothers will all come out to roast the duo. Limited tickets are still available at www.wabcradio.com. The event is produced by Jeffrey Gurian in conjunction with Gotham Comedy Club and 77 WABC.

TALKERS Weekly Affiliate Roundup.  The sports programming from Yahoo! Sports Radio is now being heard on Word Broadcasting’s WVHI, Evansville, Indiana…..The Genesis Communications Network-syndicated “Freedom Feens” show is now being heard on affiliate stations WRMN, Elgin, Illinois (Chicago market) and on WPNN, Pensacola, Florida.

Netanyahu Speech/Iran Nukes Top Talkers TenTM for Week of March 2-6.  The speech before Congress by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the issue of a pact to allow Iran’s nuclear program to expand were tied for the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week.  At #2 was the Supreme Court’s hearing a challenge to the Affordable Care Act. Coming in at #3 was the probe of Hillary Clinton’s use of private email for State Department business, followed by the Homeland Security Department funding battle and President Obama’s amnesty order at #4.  The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio this week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.  It is published every Friday at Talkers.com.  View this week’s entire chart here.

Friday, September 13, 2013

| September 13, 2013

hannityseanPremiere Networks and Sean Hannity Agree to Multi-Year Extension.  This contract renewal, which keeps nationally syndicated talk superstar Sean Hannity with Premiere Networks for years to come, also extends his reach.  The company states that Hannity’s program will expand to additional major market Clear Channel talk stations as well as non-Clear Channel stations in 2014.  Those details regarding station clearances will be announced at a later date.  Additionally, the program will also move from delayed status to live on some of its existing Clear Channel affiliates,premierenetworks logo “providing listeners with up-to-the-minute programming and real-time news and information.”  As part of this new deal, Sean Hannity will participate in key live events, touring and iHeartRadio Talk, the latter of which the company calls, “the first mass-market focused audio platform to offer on-demand listener-created talk content side by side with established personalities, celebrities and shows.”  Clear Channel Media and Entertainment chairman and CEO John Hogan states, “We’re really excited to be able to expand our relationship with Sean, one of the greatest talk radio talents in the country.  Sean continues to be one of the most successful radio personalities in both ratings and delivering results for advertisers, and his provocative show has seen significant growth.  His blend of intelligence, passion and integrity is what makes him such a successful broadcaster and important asset to radio.  We expect this new distribution plan to offer even more exposure and growth for The Sean Hannity Show.”  Hannity adds, “From the very first day I went on the air in 1986, and that red light went on, I have been in love with radio.  That love has grown every day since.  I am extremely appreciative and grateful for the opportunity to do what I love every day.  Premiere has been an incredibly supportive partner and a huge part of the show’s success.  I look forward to some amazing announcements to come, and the opportunity to continue a dialogue on the issues of the day with the single greatest audience in radio.”

TalkersLA2013Talkers Los Angeles 2013 Will Sell Out by End of Business Today!  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 closing in on being an advance sellout some four weeks before the event so it is advisable for media professionals interested in attending to register now!  Due to space limitations at the intimate Steve Allen Theater in Hollywood reaching maximum capacity, reservations ($149 per person) will be sold out by the end of business (5:00 pm ET) TODAY (9/13).  The conference is again being presented in association with the Los Angeles Press Club 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 by leading companies such as Comrex Corp. and Broadcasters General Store, 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).  For registration or sponsorship information call 413-565-5413.  To see the latest agenda, click here.

wtoplogoWTOP, Washington Hosts Special Town Hall on Syria.  Hubbard Radio all-news WTOP, Washington hosted a special one-hour edition of its “Town Hall” program this morning from 10:00 am to 11:00 am during which WTOP Capitol Hill correspondent Dave McConnell and midday anchor Mark Lewis conducted a Q&A session with U.S. Reps Gerry Connolly (D-VA), Frank Wolf (R-VA) and Rob Wittman (R-VA) on the issues surrounding Syria.

baileyjasonsunOPINION: The Only Thing We Have to Fear Is…Ourselves.  Sun Broadcast Group Inc. CEO Jason Bailey states in an op-ed piece that the future of talk radio is dependent upon today’s players being bold enough to dare to be different at the same time that we defend the nature of the format in the sales arena.  Bailey, referencing the Rush Limbaugh–Sandra Fluke controversy, writes, “The hypocrisy of what a brand will run next to on television but not radio should enrage us all.  But we’re afraid to stand up.  Have you watched television lately?  Calling somebody a slut is like the new way of saying hello.  It’s not just modern day television either.  I recall in the 80s, and now in reruns, Ms. Blanche Devereaux being called much worse.  Did I miss the outrage, the boycott?  Is it happening somewhere today because the Hallmark Channel chooses to run such “outrageous content?”  No.  There isn’t one because the television industry defended itself and stood up to being bold and different.  They aren’t afraid to create (or in this case rerun) content for the people that are most important in their world, the viewers.  If they push the envelope or they get a few complaint emails, they accept, and move on.  We have not been able to move on from our darkest day because we’re afraid to be bold, break the mold, and more importantly, defend ourselves.”  Read Jason Bailey’s entire piece here.

colmesalan“Healed Planet with Alan Colmes” Debuts Sunday on Talkers Radio.  A new experimental talk show conceived and hosted by Fox News Radio personality Alan Colmes will debut on Sunday night (9/15) as an exclusive monthly feature on TalkersRadio, the new internet radio station launched on the website of this trade publication earlier this week to serve as a professional “laboratory/workout gym” for talk show hosts to test new concepts.  The program will air live every third Sunday of the month between 8:00 pm ET and 9:00 pm ET with numerous repeat airings during the period between new installments.  “Healed Planet with Alan Colmes” will be an eclectic mix of science, metaphysics, unexplained mysteries, talkersradio logorelationships, a small dose of politics and everything else rolling around the mind of Alan Colmes.  According to TalkersRadio GM David Bernstein, “It is going to be fun, fascinating, stimulating and informative for talk listeners to hear all the dimensions that make up the personality, creativity and interests one of the nicest and smartest guys in the business – beyond the paradigm of general news/talk radio and TV where – let’s face it – Alan is quite famous.  And THAT is what TalkersRadio is all about!”  TalkersRadio debuted this past Tuesday with two new live and exclusive programs, “The Robbie Student Show” hosted by noted record producer (and emerging talk talent) Rob “Robbie Student” Stevens (Monday-Friday 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm ET) and “The Brent and Meg Show” hosted by the husband/wife team of legendary newsman Brent Seltzer and PR veteran Meg McDonald (3:00 pm to 5:00 pm ET).  The station is being developed in layers and is expected to be featuring a full line up of creative, experimental programs within several weeks.  For more information please contact David Bernstein at david@talkers.com.

pepeanthonyYahoo! Sports Radio Picks Pepe For Mid-Mornings. WUFC, Boston general manager amd midday personality Anthony Pepe has been tapped to host 10:00 am – 12:00 noon ET duties on Yahoo! Sports Radio.  Longtime Boston Globe sports columnist Bob Ryan and Boston Herald sportswriter Ron Borges will also be featured on the daily two-hour program, which launches next Monday (9/16).  “Anthony is an exceptional host; contributions from Ryan and Borges will provide compelling insights,” comments Yahoo! Sports Radio chief executive officer David Gow.  Pepe remarks, “I am honored to host a show on Yahoo! Sports Radio and to work with guys like Ron Borges and Bob Ryan.”  Pepe and Borges have been doing a weekly boxing show on the network.

yorketvshotNew Dan Yorke TV Show Wraps First Full Week of Production.  WPRO, Providence midday talk show host Dan Yorke debuted his nightly television program – “Dan Yorke State of Mind” – on Fox Providence’s myRITV on Monday, September 9.  The nightly half-hour show airs at 7:30 and touches on the issues of the day with a special focus on Rhode Island stories.  Yorke, who’s been a fixture in local talk media since first moving to WPRO in 2000, is no stranger to local TV.  During his long stint on talk radio in the Springfield, Massachusetts market, he did a local program on WGGB-TV, Springfield that aired in late nights.  Check out the Providence Phoenix piece on Yorke and his new show here.

kirofm logoKIRO-FM, Seattle Adds Weekend Programming.  Bonneville’s news/talk KIRO-FM, Seattle announces some fall programming changes that surround its coverage of Seattle Seahawks football.  The station notes the Jason Rantz show expands to a live three-hour show on Saturdays from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm and Sundays from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm.  Rantz provides an in-depth analysis of the local and national stories that matter most to the Pacific Northwest, and offers one-on-one interviews with some of the biggest newsmakers in the region, including Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn and Washington’s marriage equality author Ed Murray.  Three new shows are added to the Saturday night lineup: “Geekwire” is the preeminent technology news hub in the region, covering the people, companies and innovations emerging from the Pacific Northwest and impacting the world.  Founders and co-hosts John Cook and Todd Bishop host the show beginning at 7:00 pm; renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson hosts the first and only radio program devoted to all things space during “StarTalk.”  Tyson’s faithful media following lends himself to bridge the gap between pop culture and science with clarity, humor and passion each week with popular celebrities and special guests.  It airs from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm; and the station adds Premiere Networks’ “Coast to Coast AM” to air from 10:00 pm to 4:00 am Sunday.  Program director Pete Gammell says, “We’re excited to expand live and local news as part of the new KIRO Radio weekend lineup.  Alongside live coverage of the Seahawks each weekend, our programming offers something that every Washingtonian can enjoy.”

hayworthjdOdds & Sods.  Talk show host – and former U.S. Rep. from Arizona – J.D. Hayworth sits in for Michael Savage on tonight’s Cumulus Media Networks-syndicated program from 9:00 pm to 12:00 midnight ET…..Talk media personality Jeff Katz‘s daily 60-second feature “The Katz Commentary” — which currently airs on WCAP in the Boston area and KEWI in Little Rock is now heard every day at 1:00 pm on WDBF, Delray Beach, Florida during the Dick Farrel show…..Actress Julia Louis Dreyfus sits down with Entertainment Weekly editor Jess Cagle in front of a studio audience on SiriusXM’s “Town Hall” program.  The show will be recorded on September 16 and air on September 19 at 8:00 pm ET on Entertainment Weekly Radio…..Comcast Sports Net New England is reporting that CBS Radio’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” will be the new home for the NBA’s Boston Celtics and the deal should be announced soon.  Entercom’s WEEI chose not to renew with the team after the two sides could not agree to a contract renewal.

markowskichrisChris Markowski ‘Money Minutes’ Feature Expanding.  Financial expert Chris Markowski’s industry profile continues to grow as the host of the weekend syndicated program “Watchdog on Wall Street” continues to garner more affiliates for his free daily feature “Money Minute.”  The program just added WJHC, Jasper, Florida “Talk 107.5.”  Markowski is a regular face on cable news/talk and business talk television in addition to his weekly radio program daily vignettes.  Stations interested in adding the daily “Money Minute” can contact Shannon Rose at info@mediaproductions.tv.

siriusxmSiriusXM and Bleacher Report Team for Sports Talk Show.  Adding the program to its SiriusXM Sports Zone channel, the satcaster is teaming with Turner Broadcasting-owned digital sports destination Bleacher Report to create “Bleacher Report Radio.”  The daily show will air from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm and be hosted by SiriusXM’s Steve Covino and Rich Davis and feature some of Bleacher Report‘s most prominent contributors, including Mike Freeman, Matt bleacherreport logoBowen, Matt Miller, Michael Schottey, Adam Kramer and Michael Felder.  SiriusXM president and chief content officer Scott Greenstein states, “Bleacher Report has distinguished itself as a go-to source for passionate sports fans and we’re excited to team up to deliver a new and unique brand of sports talk to our subscribers.  We are focused every day on giving our listeners access to the best sports content available, and the most in-depth access to their teams, no matter where they are across the U.S.  ‘Bleacher Report Radio’ was created with that goal in mind and will showcase many of Bleacher Report‘s best writers while giving sports fans a forum in which they can react to and discuss the day’s headline stories involving their favorite teams and players.”

thompsonburnieTALKERS Weekly Affiliate Roundup.  Panama City, Florida-based Burnie Thompson show is added to the program schedule at WDVH-AM, Gainesville, Florida and WRZN, Hernando, Florida…..“Into Tomorrow with Dave Graveline” is added to the 10-station “SuperTalk Mississippi Radio Network” that covers the state…..“The Freedom Feens” hosted by Michael W. Dean and Neema Vedadi joins the weekend program schedule at WKRO, Cairo, Illinois…..Talk Media Network-syndicated “Frontlines of Freedom” with host Lt. Col. Denny Gillem adds KYYA, Billings and WHFB, Benton Harbor-St. Joseph, Michigan to its roster of affiliates.  The network also announces “Fat Guys at the Movies” with hosts Kevin Carr and Kristin Dreyer Kramer is added to the program schedule at WBCF-AM/FM, Florence, Alabama and WHFB, Benton Harbor-St. Joseph, Michigan.

U.S. Debate Over Syria Action Top News/Talk Story of the Week.  According to the Talkers TenTM, the debate over United States action in Syria was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio during the week of September 9-13.  Landing at #2 on the chart was Vladimir Putin’s chastising the U.S. tied with threats from Iran.  At #3 was the anniversary of the terrorist attacks of 9/11 and at #4 was the implementation of the Affordable Care Act.  The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is published every Friday at Talkers.com.  To view this week’s chart, click here.

Hey Bad Guys – Watch Out!

| February 5, 2013

TALKERS Spotlight: THE WATCHDOGS

By Mike Kinosian
TALKERS
Managing Editor/West Coast Bureau Chief

LOS ANGELES —  Contrasted to national talk radio hosts who can sometimes get deeply mired in a monotonous right against left (or vice versa) onslaught, many of their local counterparts emerge as bona fide folk heroes for standing up against a coterie of injustices inflicted on their fellow residents.

Actions taken by this band of “watchdogs,” in the overwhelming number of instances, have nothing to do with political leanings or a partisan playbook.

johnandkencarrhowieLegendary for rooting out the “bad guys,” afternoon talk hosts “John & Ken” (John Kobylt & Ken Champiou) expose what they consider dirty dealings to their very large audience on Los Angeles’ KFI.  Meanwhile, on the other side of the country, WRKO, Boston’s Howie Carr is a thorn in the side of the “powers that be” in New England.  Everywhere in between, intense professional satisfaction comes when they go toe-to-toe with pit bull-like tenacity against the establishment. In that same sort of imagery, “hold their feet to the fire” has actually become a talk radio slogan as on-air talents attempt to expose and defeat “the bad guys.”

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