Industry News

WSCR, Chicago to Present “QB1 Town Hall”

Audacy sports talk WSCR-AM, Chicago “670 The Score” is addressing what’s on every Chicago sports fan’s mind as it presents a live broadcast of the “Parkins & Spiegel Show” (Danny Parkins and Matt Spiegel) called, “QB1 Town Hall.” The Wednesday (2/21) broadcast looks at whether the Chicago Bearsim should keep quarterback Justin Fields or trade him in the upcoming draft for the #1 pick. Parkins and Spiegel will kick off the discussion from Audacy Chicago’s Blue Cross Blue Shield Performance Stage from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Football experts and a live audience will join Parkins and Spiegel to weigh in on the looming decision. “The Score” ran a contest this week for a chance to attend the “QB1 Town Hall.” These winners will make up the crowd that will have the opportunity take part in the debate. WSCR VP of programming Mitch Rosen says, “This decision will determine the entire season’s trajectory and the fans are passionate about their views on it. We’re looking forward to opening up this conversation to our listeners and Bears faithful.” The show is being made available via the Audacy app & website, the station’s Twitch, and YouTube channels.

Ratings Takeaways

October 2023 PPM Ratings – Part One

imOctober 2023 PPM Data – Information for the October 2023 ratings period (September 14 – October 11) has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), and Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario.

The only requirement for a spoken-word station to be included below is that they be a Nielsen Audio subscriber – there are no share or rank thresholds.

NFL; NBA; and NHL team names of corresponding spoken-word flagship(s) are bolded.

Comparisons are September 2023 – October 2023 (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk

WABC 3.4 – 3.1, #11 – #11

WOR 1.2 – 1.2, #22 – #23

WKXW .7 – .8, #24 – #25

WKXW Stream .2 – .3, #41 – #37

WLIR-FM .0 – .0, DNA – DNA

News

WINS-FM 4.6 – 4.3, #7 – #7

WCBS-AM 2.5 – 2.3, #13 – #15

WINS-FM Stream .4 – .4, #32 – #34

Business News WBBR .3 – .4, #35 – #34

WCBS-AM Stream .3 – .2, #35 – #40

Sports Talk

WFAN FM & AM 3.1 – 2.9, #12 -#13 (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM 1.1 – 1.4 #23 – #21 (Jets, Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)

WFAN FM & AM Stream .7 – .9, #24 -#24 (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

Public Radio News/Talk

WNYC-FM 3.6 – 4.4, #10 – #6

WNYC-AM 1.4 – 1.3, #21 – #22

Note: Public radio news/talk WNYC-FM’s +.8 (3.6 – 4.4) ties contemporary Christian WPLJ for the market’s greatest September 2023 – October 2023 increase (6+).

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk

KFI 4.8 – 4.5, #4 – #5

KEIB .7 – .8, #32 – #32  (Clippers)

KRLA .6 – .6, #34 – #33

News

KNX-FM 3.7 – 3.3, #8 – #10

KNX-FM Stream .1 – .1, #43 – #39

Sports Talk

KLAC 1.6 – 1.3, #26 – #27 (Chargers, Clippers)

Public Radio News/Talk

KPCC 2.1 – 2.5, #20 – #13

Flagship of the Rams and Lakers is sports talk KSPN, which is unlisted in this sweep.

Kings’ games are heard on the iHeartRadio app, while games of the Anaheim Ducks are heard on the Ducks stream.

CHICAGO

News/Talk

WGN 3.4 – 3.6, #8 – #8  (Blackhawks)

WLS-AM 1.4 – 1.5, #23 – #24

WLIP .3 – .3, #37 – #37

WVON .1 – .0, #44 – DNA

WLS-AM Stream .0 – .0, DNA – DNA

News

WBBM-AM & WCFS 4.9 – 5.6, #3 – #3

WBBM-AM & WCFS Stream .2 – .1, #42 – #45

Sports Talk

WSCR 3.2 – 2.5, #11 – #14 (Bulls)

WMVP 1.4 – 1.6, #23 – #22 (Bears)

WSCR Stream .7 – .3, #28 – #37  (Bulls)

Public Radio News/Talk

WBEZ 3.0 – 3.2, #13 – #12  

Note: Sports talk WSCR’s -.7 (3.2 – 2.5) is the market’s greatest September 2023 – October 2023 decrease (6+).

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk

KSFO 2.0 – 1.6, #16 – #20

KSFO Stream .3 – .4, #29 – #28

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 7.1 – 6.6, #2 – #2

KNEW .1 – .2, #33 – #32  

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream .1 – .1, #33 – #36

Sports Talk

KNBR 3.7 – 3.2, #7 – #11 (49ers)

KGMZ 1.5 – 1.8, #22 – #18   (Golden State Warriors)

KTCT .2 – .3, #30 – #29  

KGO .1 – .3, #33 – #29  

KGO Stream .2 – .2, #30 – #32  

Public Radio News/Talk

KQED 5.3 – 5.3, #3 – #3

KALW .2 – .3, #30 – #29

DALLAS

News/Talk

WBAP 4.6 – 4.5, #5 – #4

KEGL 1.5 – 1.4, #26 – #27  (Mavericks)

KSKY .5 – .6, #35 – #33

KLIF-AM .6 – .4, #34 – #37

KSKY Stream .1 – .0, #42 – #DNA

News

News – Talk KRLD-AM 1.8 – 2.1, #22 – #21 (Cowboys)

News – Talk KRLD-AM Stream .0 – .0, DNA – DNA (Cowboys)

Sports Talk

KTCK 4.7 – 4.7, #3 – #3  (Stars)

KRLD-FM 2.9 – 3.6, #15 – #10 (Cowboys)

KRLD-FM Stream .1 – .2, #42 – #38 (Cowboys)

Public Radio News/Talk

KERA 2.7 – 2.4, #16 – #18

Note: Sports talk KRLD-FM’s +.7 (2.9 – 3.6) is the market’s greatest September 2023 – October 2023 increase (6+).

HOUSTON

News/Talk

KTRH 3.7 – 4.0, #12 – #9  (Rockets)

KPRC .9 – .9, #27 – #26  

News

None

Sports Talk

KBME 1.9 – 1.5, #22 – #22  (Rockets)

KILT-AM 1.3 – 1.5, #25 – #22 (Texans)

KFNC .2 – .3, #30 – #29

KILT-AM Stream .1 – .2, #34 – #31 (Texans)

Public Radio News/Talk

KUHF 2.2 – 1.8, #18 – #21

ATLANTA

News/Talk

WSB-AM & WSBB 7.3 – 8.1, #3 – #2

WFOM .4 – .4, #29 – #30

WGKA .3 – .3, #31 – #32

WSRV-HD3 Stream .0 – .2, DNA – #33

WAOK .1 – .1, #36 – #37

WAOK Stream .0 – .1, DNA – #37

News

WBIN  .1 – .0, #36 – #DNA

Sports Talk

WZGC 2.8 – 3.0, #14 – #14 (Falcons, Hawks)

WCNN 1.5 – 1.8, #20 – #18

WZGC Stream .3 – .6, #31 – #27 (Falcons, Hawks)

Public Radio News/Talk

WABE 3.5 – 3.6, #12 – #10

WRAS  .7 – .6, #26 – #27

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk

WPHT 1.5 – 2.1, #19 – #15

WPHT Stream .3 – .5, #29 – #23

WURD .5 – .5, #23 – #23

WURD Stream .5 – .3, #26 – #25

WKXW 1.1 – DNA, #22 – DNA

WKXW Stream .1 – DNA, #35 – DNA

News

KYW & WPHI 5.8 – 5.4, #5 – #6

KYW & WPHI Stream .2 – .1, #31 – #27

Sports Talk

WIP 5.8 – 8.2, #5 – #2 (Eagles)

WIP Stream .7 – 1.5, #25 – #20 (Eagles)

WPEN-FM 1.1 – 1.2, #22 – #21 (76ers, Flyers)

Public Radio News/Talk

WHYY 3.6 – 3.1, #11 – #11

Note: Sports talk WIP’s +2.4 (5.8 – 8.2) is the greatest September 2023 – October 2023 increase by any station in these 12 PPM-markets (6+).

NASSAU-SUFFOLK (LONG ISLAND)

News/Talk

WABC 3.9 – 2.2, #8 – #18

WOR 1.1 – 1.1, #22 – #22

WLIR .2 – .2, #33 – #30

News

WINS-FM 4.0 – 3.7, #7 – #7

WCBS-AM 2.5 – 2.7, #14 – #12

WINS-FM Stream .5 – .6, #25 – #25

WCBS-AM Stream .4 – .2, #29 – #30

Business News WBBR .3 – .3, #32 – #29

Sports Talk

WFAN-FM 3.8 – 3.9 #10 – #6 (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM 1.7 – 3.0, #18 – #11 (Jets, Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)

WFAN-FM Stream 1.2 – 1.2, #21 – #21 (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

Public Radio News/Talk

WSUF .2 – .2, #33 – #30 

Note: Sports Talk WEPN-FM’s +1.3 (1.7 – 3.0) represents Nassau-Suffolk’s largest September 2023 – October 2023 increase.

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk

None

News

KFOO .1 – .1, #22 – #24

Sports Talk

None

Public Radio News/Talk

KVCR .4 – .5 #19 – #19

KPCC .2 – .1, #20 – #24

SAN JOSE

News/Talk

KSFO 1.3 – 1.1, #22 – #23

KSFO Stream .2 – .2, #28 – #30  

News

KCBS-AM & KFRC 6.6 – 6.0, fourth consecutive month at #1

KCBS-AM & KFRC Stream .3 – .3, #27 – #29

KNEW .2 – .2, #28 – #30  

Sports Talk

KNBR 4.8 – 5.2, #4 – #5 (49ers)

KGMZ 2.2 – 2.1, #15 – #16 (Golden State Warriors)

KGO Stream .8 – 1.0, #24 – #25  

KTCT .5 – .8, #26 – #27   

KGO .2 – .6, #28 – #28  

Public Radio News/Talk

None 

Sharks’ games are carried on the Sharks Audio Network.

MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION 

News/Talk

WKXW 5.2 – 6.0, #4 – #2

WKXW Stream .6 – 1.0, #22 – #19

WOR .6 – .6, #22 – #23  

News

WINS-FM 2.1 – 2.3, #13 – #11

WCBS-AM 1.2 – .9, #17 – #21

WINS-FM Stream .3 – .3, #27 – #27

WCBS-AM Stream .2 – DNA, #28 – DNA

Sports Talk

WFAN-FM & AM 4.1 – 3.4, #8 – #9 (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WFAN FM & AM Stream .8 – 1.2, #20 – #17 (Giants, Brooklyn Nets, New Jersey Devils)

WEPN-FM .9 – 1.2, #19 – #17 (Jets, Knicks, Islanders, Rangers)

Public Radio News/Talk

None

Note: Sports talk WFAN’s -.7 (4.1 – 3.4) represents Middlesex-Somerset-Union’s largest September 2023 – October 2023 decrease. 

Up next: October 2023 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Ratings Takeaways

July 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

imJuly 2023 PPM Data – Information for the July 2023 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.

Nielsen Audio’s July 2023 sweep covered June 22 – July 19.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are June 2023 – July 2023 (6+). 

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.4 – 3.2, -.2, #10 to #11

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 4.3 – 4.9, +.6, eighth to sixth

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.7 – 2.6, -.1, anchored at #13

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 3.1 – 2.8, -.3, locked at #12

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.4 – 3.7, +.3, repeats in tenth-place

WNYC-FM cluster-mate WNYC-AM .8 – 1.5, +.7, #26 to #20

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, ninth month in a row, 7.6 – 7.7, +.1

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk WNYC-AM (+.7)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: Spanish contemporary WXNY (-.7) 

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.3 – 4.2, -.1, remains in fifth-place

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” steady at 2.8, #12 to #11

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KRTH, fifth month in succession, 5.9 – 6.8, +.9

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies KRTH (+.9)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KBUE (-.8)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” 3.0 – 3.2, +.2, #11 to #10

News: Audacy’s WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 4.6 – 5.0, +.4, third to fourth

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WSCR “670 The Score” (Cubs) 2.6 – 2.5, -.1, repeats at #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media’s WBEZ 2.5 – 2.7, +.2, #15 to #12  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, tenth straight month, 7.2 – 7.0, -.2

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: triple A WXRT (+1.1)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: classic rock WDRV (-.7)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 2.0 – 1.9, -.1, #18 to #17

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 5.9 – 6.7, +.8, anchored in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.7 – 2.9, +.2, #11 to #10

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 5.3 – 4.6, -.7, repeats in fourth-place  

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, fourth month in succession, 7.8 – 8.1, +.3

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: 1980s hits KOSF (+.9)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: CHR KMVQ (-1.0)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.7 – 3.9, +.2, repeats in ninth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” 5.1 – 4.7, -.4, continues in the runner-up slot  

Audacy-owned KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Texas Rangers) 2.4 – 2.5, +.1, steady at #16

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting’s KERA 2.3 – 2.7, +.4, #17 to #15

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KSPF, second month in a row, 5.4 – 5.3, -.1

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult hits KJKK (+.8)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: country KPLX (-.6)

Note: Audacy classic hits-oldies KLUV “Nobody Plays More 80s” remains in the format and stays at #1; however, it changes calls to KSPF as “98.7 The Spot.”

HOUSTON

 News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) 3.6 – 4.0, +.4, #11 to #9

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock KGLK first month, 6.8 – 7.0, +.2

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian KSBJ; urban contemporary KQBT; Spanish contemporary Christian KHVU; and gospel KROI (+.5)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KODA (-2.0)*

*Represents the largest June 2023 – July 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

Note: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA had been #1 the last 28 months.

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” flat at 6.5, locked in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Dickey Broadcasting’s WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) 2.8 – 3.3, +.5, repeats at #14

Audacy-owned WZGC “92.9 The Game” 2.2 – 2.3, +.1, #17 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools’ WABE 2.7 – 3.5, +.8, #15 to #9

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, seventh successive month, 10.4 – 9.6, -.8

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk WABE (+.8)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WSRV (-.8)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 5.3 – 5.6, +.3, seventh to fourth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies) 3.8 – 4.6, +.8, tenth to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY flat at 4.2, ninth to tenth

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic rock WMGK, third straight month, 10.6 – 9.8, -.8

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: sports talk WIP (+.8)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: country WXTU (-1.1)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 2.5 – 1.9, -.6, #16 to #18

News: Audacy-owned WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” flat at 3.7, ninth to seventh

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 3.3 – 3.2, -.1, tenth to ninth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 4.4 – 3.4, -1.0, fifth to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, fifth month in a row, 6.7 – 8.5, +1.8

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: classic rock WBAB (+1.8)**

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: sports talk WFAN (-1.0)

**Represents the largest June 2023 – July 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, .3 – .4, +.1, locked at #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, fourth straight month, 7.2 – 8.9, +1.7

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies KOLA (+1.7)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: Spanish contemporary KLLI (-.6)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.4 – 1.7, +.3, #18 to #20

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” steady at 6.3, third to first 

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 4.5 – 5.2, +.7, seventh to fifth

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: news KCBS-AM & KFRC, first month, unchanged at 6.3

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: urban AC KBLX (+1.4)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: CHR KMVQ (-1.6)

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 5.5 – 6.5, +1.0, repeats in third-place 

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” flat at 1.0, stays at #19

WKXW’s internet stream .3 – .9, +.6, #20

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 1.5 – 2.3, +.8, #16 to #13

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 1.0 – .9, -.1, #19 to #20

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 4.6 – 4.2, -.4, sixth to eighth

Good Karma Brands‘ WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” 1.0 – .9, -.1, #19 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic rock WAXQ, first month, 8.4 – 7.8, -.6

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLTW (+1.1)

Largest 6+ June 2023 – July 2023 Decrease: Spanish tropical WSKQ (-1.1)

Up next: July 2023 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Industry News

WSCR Honoring Hall of Famer Hughes

Pat HughesIn celebration of Chicago Cubs play-by-play announcer Pat Hughes’ induction next week into the Baseball Hall of Fame, the team’s flagship – Audacy sports talk WSCR “670 The Score” – will air a series of special programming. WSCR vice president and brand manager Mitch Rosen opines that, “Pat’s induction into baseball’s Hall of Fame is a testament to his exceptional broadcasting career and unwavering dedication to the Cubs and ‘670 The Score.’ For 28 seasons, Pat’s voice has captured the essence of Cubs baseball. We’re delighted to recount the franchise’s cornerstone moments sound-tracked by his unforgettable calls and honor a fixture in Chicago sports.” Next Friday (7/21), WSCR will air “Pat’s Call to the Hall,” a three-hour (6:00 pm – 9:00 pm) audio retrospective of Hughes’ career. Hosted by Hughes’ radio booth partners Ron Coomer and Zach Zaidman, the special will feature interviews with – among others – former Cubs manager Joe Maddon; current Cubs skipper David Ross; sports broadcaster Bob Costas; and musician/songwriter Eddie Vedder. Next Saturday (7/22) following its broadcast of the Cubs game, the station will air Hughes’ induction speech from Cooperstown (New York) and will rebroadcast “Pat’s Call to the Hall.” In addition, WSCR is airing vignettes saluting Hughes’ career. The Baseball Hall of Fame named Hughes this year’s winner of the Ford Frick Award, which recognizes excellence in broadcasting. A nine-time Illinois Sportscaster of the Year, Hughes won the award three times in Wisconsin as the voice of the Milwaukee Brewers.

Ratings Takeaways

May 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

imMay 2023 PPM Data – Information for the May 2023 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey).

Nielsen Audio’s May 2023 sweep covered April 27 – May 24.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are April 2023 – May 2023 (6+). 

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” steady at 3.7, #10 to #11

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.9 – 1.7, -.2, continues at #18

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 4.5 – 4.3, -.2, repeats in seventh-place

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.9 – 2.8, -.1, stays at #13

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 3.2 – 3.0, -.2, stagnant at #12

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM unchanged at 3.8, ninth to eighth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, seventh month in a row, 7.6 – 8.4, +.8

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLTW (+.8)

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Decrease: Spanish tropical WSKQ (-.5) 

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” flat at 4.3, fourth to fifth

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 2.9 – 2.8, -.1, repeats at #11

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.4 – 2.2, -.2, #16 to #18

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KRTH, third month in succession, 5.7 – 5.9, +.2

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Increase: hot AC KBIG (+.8)

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary KRRL (-.7)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” 3.2 – 3.3, +.1, tenth to ninth

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 4.4 – 4.2, -.2, fourth to third

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WSCR “670 The Score” (Cubs) 3.1 – 2.9, -.2, #12 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 3.1 – 3.0, -.1, repeats at #12  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, eighth straight month, 6.8 – 7.3, +.5

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLIT (+.5)

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Decrease: triple A WXRT and regional Mexican WOJO (-.5)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 7.3 – 6.4, -.9, first to second

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” 2.7 – 3.1, +.4, #13 to #9

Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 3.3 – 2.6, -.7, #9 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 5.2 – 4.5, -.7, fourth to fifth

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, second month in succession, 7.3 – 9.0, +1.7

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KOIT-FM (+1.7)

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KISQ (-1.0)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.2 – 3.3, +.1, #13 to #11

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” 2.1 – 1.9, -.2, remains at #20

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” 5.6 – 6.6, +1.0, #1

Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Texas Rangers) 3.0 – 2.3, -.7, #14 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 2.2 – 1.9, -.3, #19 to #20

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media sports talk KTCK, fifth straight month, 5.6 – 6.6, +1.0

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Increase: sports talk KTCK (+1.0)

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KDGE (-.9)

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) 3.7 – 3.9, +.2, tenth to ninth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF 2.8 – 2.7, -.1, #15 to #17

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, 27th consecutive month, 8.9 – 9.2, +.3

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Increase: adult hits KKHH (+.9)

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Decrease: alternative KTBZ (-1.1)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 7.0 – 6.7, -.3, locked in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” 2.5 – 2.6, +.1, #18 to #17

Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) 2.6 – 2.3, -.3, #16 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 3.4 – 2.9, -.5, #11 to #14

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, fifth successive month, 8.9 – 8.7, -.2

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Increase: urban AC WAMJ (+.7)

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk WABE and hot AC WSTR (-.5)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 5.5 – 5.1, -.4, repeats in seventh-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies) 5.9 – 4.9, -1.0, sixth to eighth

WIP’s internet stream 1.3 – 2.0, +.7, #21 to #16

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” 1.4 – 1.6, +.2, continues at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 4.9 – 4.4, -.5, flat at #9

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic rock WMGK, first month, 7.5 – 8.5, +1.0

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Increase: country WXTU (+1.7)

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WOGL (-1.1)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 1.8 – 3.2, +1.4, #19 to #10

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.2 – 1.6, -.6, #15 to #20

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 3.8 – 3.4, -.4, seventh to ninth

WCBS-AM cluster-mate WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 3.3 – 3.2, -.1, repeats in tenth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 4.6 – 4.0, -.6, fifth to seventh

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” 1.4 – 1.6, +.2, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, third month in a row, 7.0 – 6.4, -.6

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Increase: adult standards WHLI (+1.9)*

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Decrease: classic rock WBAB; hot AC WALK-FM; sports talk WFAN; news/talk WOR; and the internet stream of CHR WBLI (-.6)

*Represents the largest April 2023 – May 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, unchanged at .3, stationary at #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, second straight month, 5.7 – 7.2, +1.5

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies KOLA (+1.5)

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian KSGN (-1.2)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.7 – 1.5, -.2, stays at #20

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.2 – 6.5, +.3, first to third

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 4.4 – 4.0, -.4, sixth to seventh

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” 1.9 – 2.3, +.4, #18 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, first month, 5.4 – 6.6, +1.2 and classic rock cluster-mate KUFX, first month, 5.7 – 6.6, +.9

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Increase: hot AC KIOI (+1.3)

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KISQ (-1.7)**

**Represents the largest April 2023 – May 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets 

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 7.1 – 6.4, -.7, first to fourth 

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.3 – 1.0, -.3, repeats at #20

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 2.0 – 1.8, -.2, #13 to #16

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 1.7 – 1.2, -.5, #16 to #18

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 3.8 – 3.2, -.6, flat at #9

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” 1.6 – 1.2, -.4, #18 to #19

WFAN’s internet stream .8 – 1.0, +.2, #23 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic rock WAXQ, first month, 6.8 – 7.7, +.9

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLTW (+1.5)

Largest 6+ April 2023 – May 2023 Decrease: news/talk WKXW (-.7)

Up next: May 2023 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Industry News

WSCR, Chicago Producer Expected to Return After Suspension

According to several reports, Shane Riordan, producer for the “Parks & Spiegel” show on Audacy’s sports talk WSCR, Chicago “670 The Score,” is expected back in the studios today after serving a suspension for comments he made on the air last Friday. The matter began with a Twitter spat between Riordan and FOXim Sports gambling analyst Jason McIntyre in which crosstown news/talk WIND-AM, Chicago personality Dan Proft soon became involved. In the course of this being discussed by hosts on both WIND and WSCR, Riordan said, directing his words to Proft, “Dan, I’ll have sex with your mother,” and then adding, “Dan Proft, you bring your mother over here, and I’ll bone her.” When Audacy was asked for a comment by the Chicago Sun-Times, it declined to comment. Read the New York Post’s coverage here.

Ratings Takeaways

April 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

imApril 2023 PPM Data – Information for the April 2023 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey).

Nielsen Audio’s April 2023 sweep covered March 30 – April 26.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are March 2023 – April 2023   (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” flat at 3.7, ninth to tenth

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” steady at 1.9, repeats at #18

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 5.0 – 4.5, -.5, sixth to seventh

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.4 – 2.9, +.5, #15 to #13

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets, Yankees) 2.9 – 3.2, +.3, anchored at #12

Good Karma Brands’ WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Rangers, Islanders) unchanged at 1.3, #22 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.5 – 3.8, +.3, tenth to ninth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, sixth month in a row, steady at 7.6

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: urban AC WBLS (+.6)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: Spanish tropical WSKQ (-1.0)

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.1 – 4.3, +.2, fifth to fourth

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 3.3 – 2.9, -.4, #10 to #11

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.2 – 2.4, +.2, #17 to #16

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KRTH, second month in succession, 5.8 – 5.7, -.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: adult hits KCBS-FM (+.5)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: CHR KIIS (-.6)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” (Blackhawks) 3.4 – 3.2, -.2, ninth to tenth

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 4.8 – 4.4, -.4, anchored in fourth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WSCR “670 The Score” (Bulls, Cubs) 2.5 – 3.1, +.6, #14 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 3.4 – 3.1, -.3, #9 to #12  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, seventh straight month, 6.7 – 6.8, +.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: classic rock WDRV (+.9)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: news/talk WBBM-AM & WCFS and regional Mexican WLEY (-.4)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.3 – 1.8, +.5, #22 to #19

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 8.0 – 7.3, -.7, #1

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.1 – 3.3, +1.2, #15 to #9

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (Golden State Warriors) 2.2 – 2.7, +.5, #14 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 5.3 – 5.2, -.1, remains in fourth-place

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, first month, 7.2 – 7.3, +.1 and news KCBS-AM & KFRC, second month in a row, 8.0 – 7.3, -.7

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: sports talk KNBR (+1.2)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: news KCBS-AM & KFRC and classical KDFC (-.7)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.4 – 3.2, -.2, #12 to #13

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” 2.3 – 2.1, -.2, #18 to #20

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) steady at 5.6, #1

Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Texas Rangers) 2.3 – 3.0, +.7, #18 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 2.7 – 2.2, -.5, #16 to #19

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media sports talk KTCK, fourth straight month, flat at 5.6

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: sports talk KRLD-FM and alternative KVIL (+.7)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KMVK and public radio news/talk KERA (-.5)

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) unchanged at 3.7, #12 to #10

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF 2.6 – 2.8, +.2, #17 to #15

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, 26th consecutive month, 9.0 – 8.9, -.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: hot AC KHMX (+1.0)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: Spanish adult hits KOVE (-1.4)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 6.6 – 7.0, +.4, anchored in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) 1.3 – 2.6, +1.3, #21 to #16

Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks) 2.4 – 2.5, +.1, #17 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 3.6 – 3.4, -.2, #9 to #11

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, fourth successive month, 8.3 – 8.9, +.6

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: sports talk WCNN (+1.3)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WHTA (-1.7)*

*Represents the largest March 2023 – April 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 6.2 – 5.5, -.7, third to seventh

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies) 4.7 – 5.9, +1.2, eighth to sixth

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers, Flyers) flat at 1.4, stays at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 5.4 – 4.9, -.5, seventh to ninth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM, third month in a row, 7.2 – 7.7, +.5

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: sports talk WIP (+1.2)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: news KYW & WPHI (-.7)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.1 – 2.2, +.1, #16 to #15

Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 1.3 – 1.8, +.5, #22 to #19

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 3.5 – 3.8, +.3, ninth to seventh

WCBS-AM cluster-mate WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 3.7 – 3.3, -.4, eighth to tenth

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets, Yankees) 4.4 – 4.6, +.2, sixth to fifth

WFAN’s internet stream .4 – .6, +.2, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, second month in a row, 6.0 – 7.0, +1.0

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: classic rock WBAB (+1.0)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (-.5)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, flat at .3, repeats at #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, first month, 6.1 – 5.7, -.4

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: rhythmic CHR KGGI (+1.1)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: regional Mexican KSCA (-1.2)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.5 – 1.7, +.2, #18 to #20

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.3 – 6.2, -.1, #1

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.6 – 4.4, +1.8, #14 to #6

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (Golden State Warriors) 1.4 – 1.9, +.5, #21 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: news KCBS-AM & KFRC, second month, 6.3 – 6.2, -.1

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: sports talk KNBR (+1.8)**

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: 1980s hits KOSF (-1.3)

**Represents the largest March 2023 – April 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.5 – 7.1, +.6, second to first 

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.0 – 1.3, +.3, repeats at #20

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 2.3 – 2.0, -.3, #9 to #13

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 1.6 – 1.7, +.1, #14 to #16

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets, Yankees) 3.8, #9 (non-subscriber in March 2023)

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Rangers, Islanders) 1.1 – 1.6, +.5, #17 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: news/talk WKXW, first month, 6.5 – 7.1, +.6

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Increase: hot AC WNEW-FM (+.8)

Largest 6+ March 2023 – April 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WMGQ (-1.1)

Up next: April 2023 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Ratings Takeaways

March 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

March 2023 PPM Data – Information for the March 2023 ratings period has been released for New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey).

Nielsen Audio’s March 2023 sweep covered March 2 – March 29.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are February 2023 – March 2023  (6+). 

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.9 – 3.7, -.2, tenth to ninth

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.7 – 1.9, +.2, steady at #18

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 4.6 – 5.0, +.4, seventh to sixth

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.1 – 2.4, +.3, #16 to #15

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets and Yankees) 2.6 – 2.9, +.3, locked at #12

WFAN’s internet stream 1.4 – 1.5, +.1, repeats at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 4.0 – 3.5, -.5, ninth to tenth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, fifth month in a row, 7.0 – 7.6, +.6

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLTW (+.6)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM and public radio news/talk WNYC-FM (-.5)

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” unchanged at 4.1, repeats in fifth-place

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 2.9 – 3.3, +.4, #12 to #10

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.7 – 2.2, -.5, #14 to #17

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KRTH, first month, 5.4 – 5.8, +.4

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: CHR KIIS (+1.1)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KOST (-1.4)

Note: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST had been #1 the past eight months

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” (Blackhawks) 3.2 – 3.4, +.2, tenth to ninth

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” steady at 4.8, locked in fourth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WSCR “670 The Score” (Bulls and Cubs) 1.7 – 2.5, +.8, #23 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 3.7 – 3.4, -.3, seventh to ninth  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, sixth straight month, 8.0 – 6.7, -1.3

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: sports talk WSCR (+.8)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLIT (-1.3)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.0 – 8.0, +2.0, third to first

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (Golden State Warriors) 2.3 – 2.2, -.1, repeats at #14

Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.3 – 2.1, -.2, #14 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 4.6 – 5.3, +.7, continues in fourth-place

Number One 6+: news KCBS-AM & KFRC, first month, 6.0 – 8.0, +2.0

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: news KCBS-AM & KFRC (+2.0)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary KMEL (-.8)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 2.6 – 3.4, +.8, #16 to #12

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” steady at 2.3, #20 to #18

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) unchanged at 5.6, #1

Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Cowboys and Texas Rangers) 2.9 – 2.3, -.6, #14 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 3.0 – 2.7, -.3, #13 to #16

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media sports talk KTCK, third straight month, unchanged at 5.6

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: news/talk WBAP (+.8)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: urban AC KRNB and sports talk KRLD-FM (-.6)

HOUSTON

 News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) 3.8 – 3.7, -.1, #11 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF 3.1 – 2.6, -.5, #13 to #17

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, 25th consecutive month, 8.0 – 9.0, +1.0

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KODA (+1.0)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: classic rock KGLK and alternative KTBZ (-.7)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 7.2 – 6.6, -.6, repeats in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks) 2.3 – 2.4, +.1, #18 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE steady at 3.6, tenth to ninth

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, third successive month, 8.1 – 8.3, +.2

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WHTA (+1.6)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: country WUBL (.7)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 5.9 – 6.2, +.3, fourth to third

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies) 5.9 – 4.7, -1.2, fourth to eighth

WIP’s internet stream 1.8 – 1.5, -.3, locked at #19

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers and Flyers) 1.7 – 1.4, -.3, repeats at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 4.8 – 5.4, +.6, eighth to seventh

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM, second month in a row, 6.7 – 7.2, +.5

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk WHYY (+.6)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: sports talk WIP (-1.2)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.9 – 2.1, +.2, anchored at #16

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 3.3 – 3.7, +.4, tenth to eighth

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 4.2 – 3.5, -.7, sixth to ninth

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets and Yankees) 4.2 – 4.4, +.2, repeats in sixth-place

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Rangers, Islanders) 1.6 – 1.5, -.1, #18 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, first month, 5.5 – 6.0, +.5

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: CHR WBLI’s internet stream (+.8)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: classic rock WAXQ and rhythmic CHR WKTU (-.9)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, .5 -.3, -.2, locked at #19

Number One 6+: Audacy country KFRG, first month, 4.9 – 6.5, +1.6

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: country KFRG (+1.6)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KOLA (-1.0)

Note: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA had been #1 the past 15 months

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.6 – 1.5, -.1, #19 to #18

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.8 – 6.3, -.5, second to first

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.7 – 2.6, -.1, #13 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, tenth consecutive month 7.6 – 6.3, -1.3 and news KCBS-AM & KFRC, first month, 6.8 – 6.3, -.5

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: 1980s hits KOSF (+2.2)*

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: country KBAY (-1.5)**

*Represents the largest February 2023 – March 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

**Represents the largest February 2023 – March 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.3 – 6.5, +.2, locked in second-place

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” .7 – 1.0, +.3, #21 to #20

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 2.2 – 2.3, +.1, #12 to #9

WINS-FM cluster-mate WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 1.5 – 1.6, +.1, #18 to #14

Sports Talk: Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Rangers, and Islanders) 1.3 – 1.1, -.2, #19 to #17

The internet stream of Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets and Yankees) .7 – 1.0, +.3, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WMGQ, third consecutive month, 6.6 – 7.9, +1.3

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WMGQ (+1.3)

Largest 6+ February 2023 – March 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW; contemporary Christian WAWZ; and the internet stream of Spanish tropical WSKQ (-.8)

Up next: March 2023 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Features

January 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

Barry Farber - usedJanuary 2023 PPM Data – Information for the January 2023 ratings period has been released for New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; San Francisco; Dallas; Houston; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario; San Jose; and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.

Nielsen Audio’s January 2023 sweep covered January 5 – February 1.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.1 – 3.9, +.8, tenth to ninth

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.1 – 1.7, +.6, #23 to #19

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” flat at 4.6, fifth to seventh and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” steady at 2.0, remains at #17

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets and NY Giants) 3.1 – 3.3, +.2, #10 to #12 and WFAN’s internet stream 1.4 – 2.0, +.6, #21 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 2.8 – 3.8, +1.0, #12 to #10

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, third month in a row, 10.4 – 6.5, -3.9

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (+1.5)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW (-3.9)

 LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.4 – 4.1, -.3, third to sixth

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 2.5 – 2.8, +.3, #12 to #9

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.0 – 2.3, +.3, #19 to #16

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, seventh month in succession, 13.1 – 6.8, -6.3

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: smooth AC KTWV (+1.3)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KOST (-6.3)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” (Blackhawks) 2.8 – 3.4, +.6, #12 to #9

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” (Bears) 4.8 – 4.5, -.3, continues in fourth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WSCR “670 The Score” (Bulls) 1.7 – 1.9, +.2, #20 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 3.4 – 3.9, +.5, sixth to eighth  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, fourth straight month, 14.8 – 7.3, -7.5

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: triple A WXRT (+3.0)*

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLIT (-7.5)

*Represents the largest “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023  increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” flat at 1.7, #18 to #20

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.7 – 6.9, +.2, anchored in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (49ers) 3.3 – 3.9, +.6, eighth to seventh

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (Golden State Warriors) 1.9 – 2.7, +.8, #16 to #11

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 5.9 – 6.1, +.2, third to fourth

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, third successive month, 15.5 – 8.1, -7.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KISQ (+2.1)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KOIT-FM (-7.4)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.7 – 3.4, -.3, eighth to tenth

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” (Cowboys) 2.2 – 2.5, +.3, #20 to #17

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) 3.8 – 6.2, +2.4, sixth to first

Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Cowboys) 3.7 – 3.5, -.2, eighth to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 2.5 – 3.1, +.6, #16 to #14

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media sports talk KTCK, first month, 3.8 – 6.2, +2.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: sports talk KTCK (+2.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KDGE (-5.2)

HOUSTON

 News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” 3.3 – 3.8, +.5, #12 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy KILT-AM “Sports Radio 610” 1.7 – 1.9, +.2, #21 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF 2.4 – 3.1, +.7, #18 to #13

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, 23rd consecutive month, 14.7 – 9.6, -5.1

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic rock KGLK (+1.0)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KODA (-5.1)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 4.4 – 6.3, +1.9, seventh to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks and Falcons) 2.2 – 2.4, +.2, #16 to #14

Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” 1.4 – 1.7, +.3, #20 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 3.0 – 3.8, +.8, tenth to ninth

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, first month, 8.0 – 8.3, +.3

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: news/talk WSB-AM & WSBB (+1.9)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian WFSH (-2.8)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 6.2 – 5.8, -.4, third to fifth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Eagles) 5.9 – 6.9, +1.0, fifth to second and WIP’s internet stream 1.2 – 1.6, +.4 #20 to #19

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers and Flyers) 1.3 – 1.6, +.3, flat at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 3.6 – 5.0, +1.4, continues in seventh-place

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic rock WMGK, first month, 6.0 – 7.3, +1.3

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WOGL (+1.9)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WBEB (-11.0)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.1 – 2.2, +1.1, #21 to #16

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 3.8 – 4.4, +.6, repeats in seventh-place and cluster-mate WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 3.0 – 3.6, +.6, tenth to eighth

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets and NY Giants) 4.8 – 5.1, +.3, sixth to fourth and WFAN’s internet stream flat at 1.6, #16 to #17

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Jets, Rangers, Islanders) 1.4 – 1.6, +.2, #19 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia CHR WHTZ, first month, 5.8 – 6.6, +.8

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: rhythmic CHR WKTU (+1.2)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: hot AC WALK-FM (-5.9)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, flat at .4, #18 to #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, 14th consecutive month, 7.6 – 6.8, -.8

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: regional Mexican KRQB (+1.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: rhythmic CHR KGGI (-.9)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.1 – 1.3, +.2, #22 to #19

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 7.0 – 7.4, +.4, anchored in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (49ers ) 2.9 – 4.3, +1.4, eighth to seventh

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” steady at 1.3, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, eighth consecutive month 22.7 – 8.5, -14.2

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KISQ (+2.8)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KOIT-FM (-14.2)**

**Represents the largest “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023  decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.2 – 7.1, +.9 fourth to second

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 1.7 – 1.9, +.2, repeats at #14 and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 1.2 – 1.1, -.1, #18 to #20

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets and NY Giants) 3.0 – 3.9, +.9, ninth to seventh

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Jets, Rangers, Islanders) 1.1 – 1.6, +.5, #20 to #18

WFAN’s internet stream .7 – 1.1, +.4, #22 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WMGQ, first month, 10.9 – 7.4, -3.5

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (+1.2)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW (-5.1)

Up next: January 2023 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Industry News

White Sox Pitcher Threatens Audacy’s “670 The Score”

In a story being reported by numerous sources, including by FOX News here, Chicago White Sox pitcher Mike Clevinger – who is being investigated by Major League Baseball after allegations of domestic abuse – is threatening legal action against Audacy’s sports talk WSCR, Chicago “670 The Score” after his accuserGraphics - Logo appeared on the “Parkins & Spiegel” show. Olivia Finestead is the mother of Clevinger’s 10-month-old who went on the radio show to discuss the allegations against Clevinger, a move he called “really trashy of them. That was some lowlife material right there.” He was also quoted saying, “My lawyers are paying attention. My lawyers are getting in contact with them, and they probably already sent a cease-and-desist for defamation. So [they] just got themselves involved in this, too, so good for them.”

Ratings Takeaways

Holiday 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

Holiday 2022 PPM Data – Information for the Holiday 2022 ratings period has been released for New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; San Francisco; Dallas; Houston; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario; San Jose; and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.

Nielsen Audio’s “Holiday” 2022 sweep covered December 8 (2022) – January 4 (2023).

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.3 – 3.1, -.2, ninth to tenth

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 4.2 – 4.6, +.4, seventh to fifth and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 2.2 – 2.1, -.1, locked at #17

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets and NY Giants) 2.9 – 3.1, +.2, #12 to #10

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s 3.2 – 2.8, -.4, #10 to #12

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, second month in a row, 7.6 – 10.4, +2.8

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WLTW (+2.8)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: classical WQXR (-.6)

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.7 – 4.4, -.3, second to third

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 2.9 – 2.5, -.4, #8 to #12

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.2 – 2.0, -.2, #18 to #19

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, sixth month in succession, 12.1 – 13.1, +1.0

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary KOST (+1.0)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: smooth AC KTWV (-.5)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” (Blackhawks) 3.0 – 2.8, -.2, #10 to #12

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” (Bears) 4.9 – 4.8, -.1, anchored in fourth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WSCR “670 The Score” (Bulls) 1.9 – 1.7, -.2, repeats at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 3.7 – 3.4, -.3, seventh to sixth  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, third straight month, 12.4 – 14.8, +2.4

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WLIT (+2.4)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: triple A WXRT (-1.0)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.6 – 1.7, +.1, #20 to #18

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 7.4 – 6.7, -.7, locked in second-place

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (49ers) 3.5 – 3.3, -.2, seventh to eighth

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (Golden State Warriors) steady at 1.9 #18 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 7.4 – 5.9, -1.5, second to third

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, second successive month, 10.5 – 15.5, +5.0

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary KOIT-FM (+5.0)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: public radio news/talk KQED (-1.5)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.3 – 3.7, +.4, tenth to eighth

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” (Cowboys) 2.5 – 2.2, -.3, #18 to #20

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) 5.1 – 3.8, -1.3, third to sixth

Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Cowboys) 2.9 – 3.7, +.8, #13 to #8

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 3.1 – 2.5, -.6, #12 to #16

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KDGE, second month in a row, 7.1 – 9.1, +2.0

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary KDGE (+2.0)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: classic rock KZPS (-1.6)

HOUSTON

 News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” 3.8 – 3.3, -.5, #11 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF 2.0 – 2.4, +.4, continues at #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, 22nd consecutive month, 12.5 – 14.7, +2.2

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary KODA (+2.2)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: CHR KRBE (-1.2)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 5.4 – 4.4, -1.0, sixth to seventh

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks and Falcons) 2.1 – 2.2, +.1, #14 to #16

Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” 1.3 – 1.4, +.1, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 3.8 – 3.0, -.8, eighth to tenth

Number One 6+: Urban One urban AC WAMJ, first month, 8.6 – 8.3, -.3

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase (Tie): contemporary Christian WVFJ and classic rock WNNX (+1.1)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: contemporary Christian WFSH (-1.1)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 1.0 – 1.2, +.2, #23 to #20

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 5.8 – 6.2, +.4, sixth to third

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Eagles) 6.1 – 5.9, -.2, fourth to fifth

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers and Flyers) 1.6 – 1.3, -.3, #18 to #19

WIP’s internet stream, flat at1.2, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 5.2 – 3.6, -1.6, repeats in seventh-place

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WBEB, second month in succession, 10.7 – 16.8, +6.1

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WBEB (+6.1)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WOGL (-1.7)*

*Represents the largest December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022  decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 3.4 – 3.8, +.4, ninth to seventh and cluster-mate WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 2.9 – 3.0, +.1, #12 to #10

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets and NY Giants) 4.1 – 4.8, +.7, repeats in sixth-place and WFAN’s internet stream steady at 1.6, #18 to #16

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Jets, Rangers, Islanders) flat at 1.4, remains at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Connoisseur hot AC WALK-FM, first month, 6.1 – 10.7, +4.6

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: hot AC WALK-FM (+4.6)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease (Tie): urban contemporary WWPR and classic hits-oldies WBZO (-1.4)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, .5 – .4, -.1, repeats at #18

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, 13th consecutive month, 8.3 – 7.6, -.7

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: contemporary Christian KSGN (+1.4)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: regional Mexican KRQB (-1.0)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 7.1 – 7.0, -.1, locked in second-place

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (49ers ) steady at 2.9, tenth to eighth

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” 1.5 – 1.3, -.2, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, seventh consecutive month 13.8 – 22.7, +8.9

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary KOIT-FM (+8.9)**

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: country KBAY (-1.6)

**Represents the largest December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022  increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets; KOIT-FM’s 22.7 is the largest 6+ share of any station from these 12 markets. 

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.3 – 6.2, -.1 repeats in fourth-place

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 1.8 – 1.7, -.1, #15 to #14 and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 1.3 – 1.2, -.1, #19 to #18

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets and NY Giants) 2.7 – 3.0, +.3, tenth to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Jets, Rangers, Islanders) 1.3 – 1.1, -.2, flat at #20

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, second straight month, 7.1 – 11.2, +4.1

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WMGQ (+4.8)

Largest 6+ December 2022 – “Holiday” 2022 Decrease: classic rock WAXQ (-1.4)

Up next: “Holiday” 2022 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Ratings Takeaways

September 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

September 2022 PPM Data – Information for the September 2022 ratings period has been released for New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; San Francisco; Dallas; Houston; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario; San Jose; and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.

Nielsen Audio’s September 2022 sweep covered August 18 – September 14.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are August 2022 – September 2022 (6+).

Note: The NFL season kicked off September 8; NFL – and MLB – flagships are noted where applicable.

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 4.3 – 3.0, -1.3, #8 to #11

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.0 – 1.7, -.3, anchored at #18

News: Audacy’s WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 2.8 – 3.0 +.2, #12 to #11 and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 3.0 – 2.9, -.1, #11 to #13

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees, NY Giants) 2.8 – 3.2, +.4, #12 to #10

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s 3.6 – 4.1, +.5, tenth to eighth

Number One 6+: Mediaco Holding-owned/Emmis operated urban AC WBLS, first month, 5.7 – 6.6, +.9

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Increase: urban AC WBLS (+.9)

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Decrease: news/talk WABC (-1.3)*

*Represents the largest August 2022 – September 2022  decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.8 – 4.7, -.1, repeats in fourth-place

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 3.3 – 3.5, +.2, tenth to eighth

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.3 – 2.6, +.3, #18 to #14

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, second month in a row, 5.4 – 5.8, +.4

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Increase: hot AC KBIG (+.5)

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Decrease: Spanish contemporary KLVE (-.7)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” 3.6 – 3.5, -.1, eighth to ninth

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” (Bears) 4.6 – 4.9, +.3, fifth to third

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WSCR “670 The Score” (Cubs) 2.7 – 2.5, -.2, repeats at #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 4.8 – 4.4, -.4, third to fifth  

Number One 6+: Hubbard Radio classic rock WDRV, fifth month in a row, 5.5 – 6.6, +1.1

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Increase: classic rock WDRV (+1.1)

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Decrease: country WUSN (-.8)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 2.0 – 1.8, -.2, #17 to #18 and co-owned KGO “810 AM” 1.5 – 1.7, +.2, #21 to #20

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.2 – 6.4, +.2, continues in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (SF Giants, 49ers) 4.0 – 3.6, -.4, fifth to sixth

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 8.5 – 7.8, -.7, first

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KQED third month in a row, 8.5 – 7.8, -.7

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Increase: regional Mexican KSOL (+.8)

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Decrease (Tie): public radio news/talk KQED and adult contemporary KISQ (-.7)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 4.5 – 4.9, +.4, fourth to third

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” (Cowboys) 2.2 – 2.6, +.4, #19 to #16

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” 4.3 – 4.0, -.3, sixth to seventh

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 2.8 – 3.0, +.2, #14 to #13

Number One 6+: Univision regional Mexican KLNO, eighth month in a row, 5.5 – 5.4, -.1

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Increase: adult contemporary KDGE (+.8)

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Decrease: CHR KHKS (-1.0)

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) 3.9 – 3.3, -.6, #10 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston-owned KUHF 1.7 – 2.0, +.3, #19 to #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, eighteenth consecutive month, 9.0 – 8.7, -.3

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Increase: country KKBQ (+.7)

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Decrease: news/talk KTRH (-.6)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 5.5 – 6.3, +.8, continues in fifth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) 3.3 – 3.2, -.1, remains at #11

Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Falcons) 1.8 – 2.7, +.9, #17 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 5.1 – 6.8, +1.7, sixth to third

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, ninth successive month, 9.0 – 8.3, -.7

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Increase: public radio news/talk WABE (+1.7)

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Decrease: hot AC WSTR (-.9)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 1.3 – 1.4, +.1, #20 to #19

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 5.1 – 5.2, +.1, sixth to seventh

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies, Eagles) 4.8 – 5.3, +.5, seventh to sixth and WIP’s internet stream, 2.5 – 2.6, +.1, #13 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY steady at 4.6, remains in eighth-place

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group rock WMMR, second straight month, 8.0 – 8.7, +.7

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Increase (Tie): rock WMMR and adult hits WBEN-FM (+.7)

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Decrease (Tie): classic rock WMGK and alternative WRFF (-.4)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 2.5 – 2.1, -.4, flat at #17

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.6 – 2.1, -.5, #15 to #17

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets)” 3.6 – 3.9, +.3, eighth to seventh and cluster-mate WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 2.6 – 2.4, -.2, #15 to #14

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees, NY Giants) 3.7 – 3.8, +.1, seventh to eighth

Emmis-owned/Good Karma Brands-operated WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” .8 – 1.3, +.5, #25 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, fifth month in succession, 6.2 – 6.6, +.4

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies WBZO (+.8)

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Decrease: rock WWSK (-.8)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, .3 – .4, +.1, locked at #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, ninth consecutive month, 5.9 – 7.7, +1.8

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Increase: classic hits-oldies KOLA (+1.8)**

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Decrease: Spanish contemporary KLVE (-.8)

**Represents the largest August 2022 – September 2022  increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KGO “810 AM” 2.6 – 2.7, +.1, #12 to #13

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 4.8 – 5.7, +.9, third to second

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (SF Giants, 49ers ) 3.4 – 3.7, +.3, repeats in eighth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Empire Audacy adult contemporary KOIT-FM, third straight month 6.6 – 7.3, +.7

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Increase: hot AC KEZR (+1.1)

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Decrease: 1980s-based KOSF (-.7)

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 5.1 – 6.0, +.9, fourth to second

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.7 – 2.6, -.1, repeats at #12 and co-owned WINS steady at 1.4, #18 to #17

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees, NY Giants) unchanged at 2.8, remains at #11

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, third month in a row, 7.4 – 8.6, +1.2

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WLTW (+1.2)

Largest 6+ August 2022 – September 2022 Decrease (Tie): urban contemporary WWPR and sports talk WEPN-FM (-.5)

Up next: September 2022 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Ratings Takeaways

August 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

August 2022 PPM Data – Information for the August 2022 ratings period has been released for New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; San Francisco; Dallas; Houston; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario; San Jose; and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.

Nielsen Audio’s August 2022 sweep covered July 21 – August 17.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are July 2022 – August 2022 (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 4.1 – 4.3, +.2, seventh to eighth

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.9 – 2.0, +.1, repeats at #18

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.7 – 3.1, +.4, #14 to #11 and co-owned WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 3.2 – 2.8 -.4, #11 to #12

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 3.1 – 2.8, -.3, flat at #12

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s unchanged at 3.6, ninth to tenth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, third month in a row, 6.0 – 5.9, -.1

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Increase: hot AC WNEW-FM (+.4)

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Decrease: Spanish contemporary WXNY (-.8)

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.5 – 4.8, +.3, fifth to fourth

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 3.0 – 3.3, +.3, #11 to #10

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC flat at 2.3, #16 to #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, first month, steady at 5.4

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Increase: regional Mexican KSCA (+.5)

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Decrease (Tie): urban contemporary KRRL and Spanish contemporary KXOL (-.4)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” 3.3 – 3.6, +.3, tenth to eighth

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” steady at 4.6, repeats in fifth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WSCR “670 The Score” (Cubs) 2.4 – 2.7, +.3, #17 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 5.1 – 4.8, -.3, flat at #3

Number One 6+ (Tie): Hubbard Radio classic rock WDRV, fourth month in a row, 6.1 – 5.5, -.6 and iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, first month, 5.4 – 5.5, +.1

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Increase: regional Mexican WOJO (+.8)

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary WRME-LP (-.7)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.9 – 2.0, +.1, repeats at #17

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.3 – 6.2, -.1, remains in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 3.3 – 4.0, +.7, sixth to fifth

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 8.1 – 8.5, +.5, first

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KQED second month in a row, 8.1 – 8.5, +.5

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Increase: sports talk KNBR (+.7)

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Decrease: regional Mexican KSOL (-.5)

Note: Prior to the release of  San Francisco’s August 2022 sweep, Nielsen Audio made a number of revisions contained in its July 2022 report. All comparisons above reflect the updated information.

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” flat at 4.5, continues in fourth-place

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” 2.4 – 2.2, -.2, #17 to #19

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” 3.7 – 4.3, +.6, eighth to sixth

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 3.2 – 2.8, -.4, #12 to #14

Number One 6+: Univision regional Mexican KLNO, seventh month in a row, 5.9 – 5.5, -.4

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Increase: CHR KHKS (+1.3)*

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Decrease: adult contemporary KDGE (-.7)

*Represents a tie for the largest July 2022 – August 2022  increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) 4.2 – 3.9, -.3, eighth to tenth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston-owned KUHF 2.3 – 1.7, -.6, #18 to #19

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, seventeenth consecutive month, 8.0 – 9.0, +1.0

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Increase: adult contemporary KODA (+1.0)

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Decrease (Tie): regional Mexican KQQK and public radio news/talk KUHF (-.6)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 5.7 – 5.5, -.2, fourth to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) 2.3 – 3.3, +1.0, #16 to #11

Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” 1.4 – 1.8, +.4, #20 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 3.8 – 5.1, +1.3, eighth to sixth

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, eighth successive month, 11.0 – 9.0, -2.0

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Increase: public radio news/talk WABE (+1.3)*

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WSRV (-2.0)

*Represents a tie for the largest July 2022 – August 2022  increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” flat at 1.3, repeats at #20

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 4.9 – 5.1, +.2, steady in sixth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies) 4.0 – 4.8, +.8, eighth to seventh and WIP’s internet stream, 1.2 – 2.5, +1.3, #21 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 4.3- 4.6, +.3, seventh to eighth

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group rock WMMR, first month, 8.4 – 8.0, -.4

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Increase: sports talk WIP’s internet stream (+1.3)*

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Decrease (Tie): urban AC WDAS-FM and country WUSL (-1.1)

*Represents a tie for the largest July 2022 – August 2022  increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.4 – 2.6, +.2, #16 to #15

Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.0 – 2.5, -.5, #13 to #17

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets)” 3.2 – 3.6, +.4, #11 to #8 and cluster-mate WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 2.4 – 2.6, +.2, #16 to #15

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 3.4 – 3.7, +.3, ninth to seventh and WFAN’s internet stream .9 – 1.2, +.3, #25 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, fourth month in succession, 6.3 – 6.2, -.1

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Increase: hot AC WALK-FM (+.6)

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Decrease: hot AC WNEW-FM (-1.0)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, unchanged at .3, anchored at #19

Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC .1 – .2, +.1, #21 to #20

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, eighth consecutive month, 7.1 – 5.9, -1.2

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Increase: rhythmic CHR KGGI (+.8)

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Decrease: contemporary Christian KSGN (-2.1)**

**Represents the largest July 2022 – August 2022  decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KGO “810 AM” 2.2 – 2.6, +.4, #18 to #12

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.0 – 4.8, -1.2, repeats in third-place

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.6 – 3.4, +.8, #14 to #8

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Empire Audacy adult contemporary KOIT-FM, second straight month 7.5 – 6.6, -.9

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Increase (Tie): sports talk KNBR and rhythmic CHR KVVF (+.8)

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Decrease: news KCBS-AM & KFRC (-1.2)

Note: Prior to the release of  San Jose’s August 2022 sweep, Nielsen Audio made a number of revisions contained in its July 2022 report. All comparisons above reflect the updated information.

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 5.0 – 5.1, +.1, third to fourth

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.2 – 2.7, +.5, #15 to #12 and co-owned WINS 1.0 – 1.4, +.4, #20 to #18

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 3.1 – 2.8, -.3, #10 to #11

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” .8 – 1.3, +.5, #22 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, second month in a row, 6.1 – 7.4, +1.3

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Increase: adult contemporary WLTW (+1.3)*

Largest 6+ July 2022 – August 2022 Decrease: hot AC WNEW-FM (-1.1)

*Represents a tie for the largest July 2022 – August 2022  increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

Up next: August 2022 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Ratings Takeaways

July 2022 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

July 2022 PPM Data – Information for the July 2022 ratings period has been released for New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; San Francisco; Dallas; Houston; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario; San Jose; and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.

Nielsen Audio’s July 2022 sweep covered June 23 – July 20.

TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian provides “Takeaways” for spoken-word stations finishing in their respective markets’ top twenty.

Cited as well are each particular city’s #1 station (6+) and loftiest (6+) upticks and drop-offs.

All comparisons noted are June 2022 – July 2022 (6+).

 

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.1 – 4.1, +1.0, #11 to #7

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 2.0 – 1.9, -.1, flat at #18

News: Audacy’s WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 2.7 – 3.2 +.5, #14 to #11 and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 2.4 – 2.7, +.3, #17 to #14

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 3.3 – 3.1, -.2, #10 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 3.5 – 3.6, +.1, eighth to ninth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, second month in a row, 6.4 – 6.0, -.4

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Increase: news/talk WABC-AM & WLIR-FM (+1.0)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Decrease: rhythmic CHR WKTU (-.5)

LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.3 – 4.5, +.2, repeats in fifth-place

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 3.1 – 3.0, -.1, flat at #11

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.6 – 2.3, -.3, #14 to #16

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KRTH, first month, unchanged at 5.5

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Increase (Tie): Spanish contemporary KLVE; alternative KROQ; classical KUSC; and jazz KKJZ (+.5)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Decrease: adult contemporary KOST (-.6)

Note: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST had been #1 the past twelve months

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” 2.6 – 3.3, +.7, #15 to #10

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” 5.0 – 4.6, -.4, second to fifth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WSCR “670 The Score” (Cubs) 2.1 – 2.4, +.3, #22 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 4.6 – 5.1, +.5, fourth to third

Number One 6+: Hubbard Radio classic rock WDRV, third month in a row, 6.8 – 6.1, -.7

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Increase: adult contemporary WLIT (+.8)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Decrease (Tie): classic rock WDRV and classical WFMT (-.7)

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” steady at 1.9, #18 to #17

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.3 – 6.2, -.1, third to second

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 4.3 – 3.3, -1.0, fourth to sixth

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 6.4 – 8.0, +1.6, second to first

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KQED first month, 6.4 – 8.0, +1.6

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Increase: public radio news/talk KQED (+1.6)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Decrease (Tie): sports talk KNBR and similarly-formatted KGMZ (-1.0)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 4.0 – 4.5, +.5, sixth to fourth

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” 2.5 – 2.4, -.1, #18 to #17

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” 4.4 – 3.7, -.7, fourth to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA steady at 3.2, #13 to #12

Number One 6+: Univision regional Mexican KLNO, sixth month in a row, 7.4 – 5.9, -1.5

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Increase: regional Mexican KMVK (+.7)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Decrease: regional Mexican KLNO (-1.5)

HOUSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” (Astros) flat at 4.2, repeats in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston-owned KUHF 2.6 – 2.3, -.3, anchored at #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, sixteenth consecutive month, 7.7 – 8.0, +.3

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Increase: country KKBQ (+.6)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Decrease: regional Mexican KLTN (-1.5)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” unchanged at 5.7, continues at #4

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” (Braves) steady at 2.3, #17 to #16

WZGC “92.9 The Game” 1.8 – 1.4, -.4, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 2.9 – 3.8, +.9, #11 to #8

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, seventh successive month, 9.7 – 11.0, +1.3

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Increase: classic hits-oldies WSRV (+1.3)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Decrease: contemporary Christian WVFJ (-1.1)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: Townsquare Media’s WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 1.0 – 1.3, +.3, #22 to #20

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 5.0 – 4.9, -.1, seventh to sixth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Phillies) 4.6 – 4.0, -.6, continues in eighth-place

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” 1.6 – 1.4, -.2, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 5.4- 4.3, -1.1, fifth to seventh

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC WDAS-FM, first month, 8.0 – 8.5, +.5

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Increase: country WUSL (+.8)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Decrease: public radio news/talk WHYY (-1.1)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: Red Apple Media-owned WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 2.3 – 3.0, +.7, #18 to #13

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 3.5 – 2.4, -1.1, #8 to #16

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets)” 3.1 – 3.2, +.1, #12 to #11 and cluster-mate WINS “1010 – All News/All The Time” 2.7 – 2.4, -.3, #15 to #16

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) 3.2 – 3.4, +.2, #11 to #9

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic rock WBAB, third month in succession, 5.5 – 6.3, +.8

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Increase: classic rock WBAB (+.8)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Decrease: adult standards WHLI (-1.3)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, flat at .3, remains at #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, seventh consecutive month, 7.5 – 7.1, -.4

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Increase: contemporary Christian KSGN (+1.8)*

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Decrease: rhythmic CHR KGGI (-.9)

*Represents the largest June 2022 – July 2022  increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KGO “810 AM” 2.0 – 2.1, +.1, #16 to #18 and cluster-mate KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 2.0 – 1.9, -.1, #16 to #20

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 5.3 – 5.7, +.4, fourth to third

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (Giants) 2.5 – 2.4, -.1, #12 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Empire Audacy adult contemporary KOIT-FM, first month 6.4 – 7.1, +.7

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Increase: country KBAY (+1.3)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Decrease: contemporary Christian KLRK (-2.4)**

**Represents the largest June 2022 – July 2022  decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MIDDLESEX

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 5.7 – 5.0, -.7, first to third

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” (Mets) 1.9 – 2.2, +.3, #16 to #15 and co-owned WINS 1.1 – 1.0, -.1, locked  at #20

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Yankees) flat at 3.1, continues in tenth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, first month, 4.8 – 6.1, +1.3

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Increase: adult contemporary WLTW (+1.3)

Largest 6+ June 2022 – July 2022  Decrease: urban contemporary WWPR (-.7)

Up next: July 2022 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com.

Front Page News Industry News

Friday, June 17, 2022

NOW POSTED: This Weekend’s Installment of “The Michael Harrison Wrap: An Overview of the National Conversation.” The latest installment of the one-hour weekend special, “The Michael Harrison Wrap,” that looks back each week at the hottest topics discussed in American talk media per the research of TALKERS, is now posted. This new episode titled, “Take a Hike,” looks back at this past week of 6/13 to 6/17. The program features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS; Paul Gleiser, talk show host/owner KTBB, Tyler, TX; Joe Thomas, talk show host/PD, WCHV, Charlottesville, VA; Matthew B. Harrison, VP/associate publisher, TALKERS/media law professor; Todd Feinburg, talk show host, WTIC, Hartford, CT; and  Daliah Wachs, M.D., physician/talk show host, Genesis Communications Network. The show airs weekends on WONK-FM, Washington, DC; WTIC, Hartford; KSCO, Santa Cruz, CA; KDFD, Denver; KFNX, Phoenix; KTLK-FM, St. Louis; WPG, Atlantic City, NJ; SuperTalk 99.7 WTN, Nashville; KMZQ, Las Vegas;  WTPL, Manchester, NH; WEMJ, Laconia, NH; WTSN, Dover-Portsmouth, NH; WVLY, Wheeling, WV; WTRW-FM, Scranton/Wilkes Barre, PA; WVOX, Westchester, NY; KBDT, Dallas; WGDJ, Albany, NY; WJFN-FM, Richmond, VA; WZFG, Fargo; KTGO, Tioga, ND; KWAM, Memphis; K-NEWS, San Luis Obispo; WGMD, Rehoboth Beach, DE; WCHM, Clarkesville, GA; WPHM, Port Huron, MI; KSYL, Alexandria, LA; KTOE, Mankato, MN; WCED, DuBois, PA; K-NEWS 101.3, Owensboro, KY; WWTK, Sebring, FL; WSAR-AM/FM, Fall River, MA; WIZM-AM/FM, La Crosse, WI; WMVA, Martinsville, VA; KQEN, Roseburg, OR; the Virginia Talk Radio NetworkCRN Digital Talk Radio NetworkPodcast Radio UK and many more. To listen to this week’s episode, please click here. To view the latest TALKERS topic research, please click here. “The Michael Harrison Wrap” is now available in syndication via Talk Media Network to stations across America on a market exclusive basis. For affiliation information, please click here or call 616-884-8616.

 

TALKERS magazine Presents Annual Awards at TALKERS 2022 Convention. After two years of not presenting annual awards (2020 and 2021) at the TALKERS convention due to COVID-19 interruptions, TALKERS magazine presented four awards to talk media broadcasters on Friday, June 10 at Hofstra University at the TALKERS 2022 convention. As we reported on Wednesday (6/15), WOLB-AM, Baltimore morning host Larry Young was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. At the Breakfast session, KOA, Denver talk host Mandy Connell (pictured below) was presented with the Woman of the Year Award.

 

WRVA, Richmond afternoon drive personality Jeff Katz (above) was honored for his charity work dedicated to children with developmental challenges and to organizations supporting law enforcement with the Humanitarian of the Year Award.

 

At the convention’s Closing Reception, “Free Talk Live” co-founder Mark Edge (above left, being congratulated by TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison, right) accepted the 2022 Freedom of Speech Award for the program’s co-founder and lead host Ian Freeman, whose work fighting for what he sees as the freedoms we all should enjoy as Americans has earned him accolades as well as the ire of those – including some New Hampshire and federal authorities – who see him as a troublemaker, or worse.

 

Audacy Teams Up ‘Bernstein and Holmes’ for Middays at ‘The Score.’ The new midday show at Audacy’s WSCR-AM, Chicago “670 The Score” features two of the station’s longtime hosts – Dan Bernstein and Laurence Holmes. As part of a station programming update, the new “Bernstein and Holmes” show will air from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, beginning June 20. The morning drive “Mully and Haugh” show adds an extra hour and will be heard from 5:30 am to 10:00 am. Leila Rahimi, who had been co-hosting with Bernstein but accepted a new gig as lead sports anchor at NBC 5 in Chicago, will continue in her role on “Leila Wednesdays” on “Bernstein and Holmes.” WSCR brand manager Mitch Rosen states, “Our all-star Chicago lineup improves with ‘Mully and Haugh’ extending later into the morning and two teammates who have worked together for 20-plus years finally sharing a microphone on a regular basis. We couldn’t be more excited for this updated lineup.” Bernstein had previously hosted late mornings on the station. Holmes previously served as host from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm.

 

KIRO-AM, Seattle Unveils New ‘Bump & Stacy’ Midday Show. Seattle sports talk personality Stacy Rost is getting a new partner as Michael Bumpus joins her for the new “Bump & Stacy” program on Bonneville’s KIRO-AM “Seattle Sports,” airing from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Station program director Kyle Brown comments, “We’re thrilled Michael Bumpus will be stepping in to join Stacy Rost as a full-time host from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm each weekday. Bump has spent years preparing for this opportunity and I have no doubt he’s ready for this moment. ‘Bump & Stacy’ will bring four hours of unending fun to ‘Seattle Sports’ listeners daily.” Michael Bumpus –who played football at Washington State University before going on to a pro career with the Seattle Seahawks and BC Lions – now serves as the host of the Seahawks pregame, postgame and halftime shows and as a television analyst for the PAC12 Network. Stacy Rost joined “Seattle Sports” as a staff writer and Seahawks Insider in 2017. She has spent the past three years as a talk show host with “Seattle Sports” and producing daily Seahawks Insider reports.

 

Mike Conti Named Brand Manager for ‘92.9 The Game’ in Atlanta. News and sports radio pro Mike Conti is promoted to brand manager for Audacy’s sports talk WZGC-FM, Atlanta “92.9 The Game.” Audacy says that in this role, Conti will oversee content strategy, talent, operations and branding for the station. He will continue in his current role as radio play-by-play announcer for the station’s flagship coverage of the Atlanta United FC and as host of the Atlanta Hawks Radio Network. Audacy Atlanta SVP and market manager Rick Caffey comments, “Mike has stepped up to the challenge of leading our programming team on an interim basis since February and he has earned this opportunity to lead WZGC. We are excited to have his leadership as we continue to build on our performance of providing the very best in entertainment and sports content for our audience and business partners.” Conti joined “92.9 The Game” in October 2012 from WGST-AM, Atlanta where he served as assistant news director. At WZGC, Conti has served as managing editor, overseeing coverage and production of live sports events. He says, “I want to thank Rick Caffey and my teammates at ‘92.9 The Game’ for the opportunity to lead such a talented group of content creators. As someone who has been with ‘The Game’ since the day we signed on 10 years ago, it has been remarkable to see us evolve into Atlanta’s go-to source of sports information and entertainment, and I look forward to continuing that evolution.”

 

Round Four of May PPMs Released. The fourth and final round of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s May 2022 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen’s May 2022 sweep covered April 28 – May 25. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In Raleigh, iHeartMedia news/talk WTKK-FM dips two-tenths to finish with a 7.2 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) and slips to the #4 rank, while Curtis Media Group’s crosstown news/talk WPTF loses half a share for a 1.5 share finish and landing in the #17 rank. Good Karma Brands’ news/talk WTMJ, Milwaukee remains in the #1 spot after adding four-tenths to wrap the survey with a 10.3 share. Meanwhile, iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk WISN puts up a 2.1 share increase to finish with a 9.6 share that vaults it into the #2 rank. Although dipping by two-tenths and finishing with a 5.9 share, Cumulus Media’s news/talk WWTN-FM, Nashville climbs to the #4 rank. After losing a full share, Cox Media Group’s news/talk WOKV-FM, Jacksonville wraps the survey with a 9.6 share and falls from #1 to #2. You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeways from this group of markets (as well as the first three rounds) here.

 

NPR and Edison Research Reveal Results of 2022 Smart Audio Report. The 2022 Smart Audio Report from NPR and Edison Research was released on Thursday (6/16). The report highlights the increased usage of voice technology, with 35% of Americans 18-plus now owning a smart speaker. This year’s study compares the most recent survey results with the 2017 Smart Audio Report, and also revisits families who were interviewed in 2017, creating a comprehensive picture of the changes over the last five years. Some of the key findings from the study include: 1) Voice technology is everywhere: In 2022, 62% of Americans 18-plus use a voice assistant on any device, and those devices can include: smart speakers, smartphones, TV remotes, in-car systems, a computer/laptop, tablet, among others; 2) Overall usage of voice tech is increasing: In 2022, 57% of voice command users use voice commands daily. Twenty percent of smart speaker owners spend most of their audio time listening through a smart speaker, up from 18% in 2017. The weekly number of tasks is increasing: In 2022, smart speaker owners request an average of 12.4 tasks on their device each week, up from 7.5 in 2017. Smartphone voice assistant users request an average of 10.7 tasks weekly, up from 8.8 in 2020; and 3) Ad messages delivered via voice tech are heard: Half of smart speaker owners have heard an ad on their smart speaker. Fifty-three percent of smart speaker owners who have heard an ad on their device agree they are likely to respond to ads on their smart speaker. Almost half (48%) of smart speaker owners who have heard an ad on their device say that compared to hearing an ad in another place, hearing it on their smart speaker would make them more likely to consider the brand. Find out more here.

 

TALKERS News Notes. Next Tuesday (6/21), Newsmax will present a live New York Republican Gubernatorial Primary Debate at 8:00 pm at the famed Kodak Center in Rochester. Moderating the debate for Newsmax will be Eric Bolling and the leading candidates – Rob Astorino, Andrew Giuliani, Harry Wilson, and Lee Zeldin will take part. Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy states, “People across New York are hungry to learn about the Republican candidates as they make their choice in this critical primary. Newsmax is glad to be actively involved across the nation a series of debate and town hall events to further voter awareness.”…..Audacy announces the launch of a new show, “Hey Mayne,” from its sports podcast studio 2400Sports, premiering June 23. Longtime ESPN host Kenny Mayne leads the program that “blends the sports culture with entertainment, politics, music, comedy, and beyond.” Mayne says, “I want to ask guests not just about their work, but who they are. I want to know what people were like in kindergarten. Because I think who you were then is basically who you are today.”…..Nineteen students just successfully completed the Kellar Radio Talent Institute’s broadcast radio training program at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. The return of the in-person, 10-day immersive professional development course for college students also marks the first institute to be produced by the Radio Advertising Bureau since it acquired the National Radio Talent System in August of 2020. RAB president and CEO Erica Farber comments, “An integral part of the RAB’s mission is providing the industry with the tools and resources to help broadcasters attract new sales talent to the medium and enhance radio’s professionalism through training and support. Bringing back the talent institutes was a top priority for RAB, and we are excited by this year’s Kellar graduating class, all future broadcasters.”…..iHeartMedia’s WDAS-AM, Philadelphia “FOX Sports Radio, The Gambler”  announces that the popular sports podcast “The Divide Live” will make its official broadcast radio debut on the station’s Sunday afternoon drive lineup, effective June 19. Airing from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm, “The Divide Live” features two longtime friends – Mike, a diehard Mets fan and Corey, a diehard Yankees fan. Together, the dynamic duo hash it out about all things sports, life and current events…..NRG Media’s sports talk KOZN, Omaha “1620 The Zone” will remain the flagship home for the NCAA Men’s College World Series through 2026. The new five-year contract extension with Westwood One begins this year. NRG Media has been the radio home of the Men’s College World Series in Omaha since 1997…..VSiN, The Sports Betting Network, announces that sports media executive Len Mead will join the VSiN team as general manager. VSiN founder and CEO Brian Musburger states, “Len has excelled at creating original content and growing audience across all platforms throughout his career, and we’re thrilled to add his expertise to our leadership team. Not only does Len bring a wealth of media experience from his prior roles at ESPN, NBC Sports, NESN and others, but he also brings sports betting industry knowledge from his time as head of content for PointsBet. We believe this combination will help VSiN deliver its premium sports betting content to even more bettors, on more platforms, in new ways.”

 

The Economy and the National Mood Tie for Top News/Talk Story for Week of June 13-17. The state of the U.S. economy, including the sinking Dow & NASDAQ, soaring gas & food prices, and fears of a recession – combined with the unsettled national mood – came together as the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week and landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was partisan politics tied with Tuesday’s midterm election primaries, followed by the January 6 Committee hearings at #3. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Front Page News Industry News

Tuesday, May 3, 2022

Joe Gallagher to Return to WGY, Albany for Weekend Shows. The Albany Times-Union reports that talk host Joe Gallagher is returning to iHeartMedia’s news/talk WGY-AM/FM, Albany to host a one-hour program at 9:00 am on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Gallagher was let go from the station in 2020. He’d served as the station’s afternoon drive host for years and was hosting weekends when he departed in pandemic-related staff reductions. WGY news and program director Jeff Wolf says, “He’s been gone about two years, and pretty much on a weekly basis I get listener feedback saying ‘Bring Joe back.'” Gallagher hosted a few special programs earlier this year and that started the ball rolling in getting him back on a scheduled show. Wolf adds, “We were thrilled. He was all about it and, obviously, we are too.”

 

Wilson Named Operations Manager for Cumulus Media Mobile. Radio programming pro Vincent “Mojo” Wilson joins Cumulus Media’s Mobile, Alabama station group that consists of news/talk WXQW-AM and four music brands as operations manager. He’ll also serve as PD for WXQW-AM and CHR WABD-FM. Wilson was most recently director of operations for Southern Broadcasting in Florence/Muscle Shoals, Alabama. Cumulus Mobile VP and market manager Don Boyd says, “‘Mojo’ is a talented programmer and on-air personality with a strong track record leading urban, CHR, Gospel and news/talk stations. He will be an excellent addition to our top performing team in Mobile as operations manager of our five-station group.”

 

Greta Van Susteren to Moderate Newsmax’s Pennsylvania Senate Primary Debate. News/talk television personality Greta Van Susteren is moderating tomorrow’s Newsmax debate between the top contenders for the GOP nomination for Pennsylvania’s open U.S. Senate seat that’s being vacated by retiring Senator Pat Toomey. The debate will take place on the campus of Grove City College in Western Pennsylvania in which Van Susteren will moderate candidates Dr. Mehmet Oz, David McCormick, Ambassador Carla Sands, Kathy Barnette, and Jeff Bartos. Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy says, “Pennsylvania is one of the most important states on the national map. And this race will have national implications, so we’ll be hosting this Newsmax debate live for all Americans to watch.”

 

TALKERS News Notes. Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that former Chicago Bears great Olin Kreutz has been let go from his contributor role at the new digital sports venture CHGO Sports after he physically attacked a fellow staffer on Monday (5/2). Kreutz is also a contributor to Audacy’s sports talk WSCR “The Score” and NBC Sports Chicago. Kreutz is apparently not disputing the incident. He tweeted a picture of Mike Tyson with the text: “Social media made y’all way too comfortable with disrespecting people and not getting punched in the face for it.”…..The National Association of Broadcasters announces that Alex Siciliano is joining the organization as senior communications strategist. Siciliano reports to NAB chief of staff and EVP of public affairs Michelle Lehman. In this newly created position, Siciliano will lead NAB’s public relations efforts on key advocacy issues, developing and implementing media relations strategies to advance broadcasters’ policy agenda before Congress and the Federal Communications Commission. Siciliano was most recently VP of communications at The Petrizzo Group. NAB president and CEO Curtis LeGeyt says, “Alex has years of experience in shaping and executing effective messaging campaigns on policy issues. Broadcasters will benefit from his deep advocacy background as he shapes NAB’s communications on the most important issues facing our industry. We are thrilled to welcome him to NAB.”…..The Freakonomics Radio Network names Neal Carruth as EVP and general manager. Carruth most recently led NPR’s news podcasting strategy, and his responsibilities at Freakonomics Radio Network will include helping to set the strategic and editorial direction of the organization. His hiring follows the March appointment of Gabriel Roth from Slate as editorial director. Carruth says, “For years now, I’ve been a serious fan of the work that Stephen Dubner and the team have done on the Freakonomics Radio podcast. I love the podcast’s combination of curiosity, rigor, and delight. I can’t wait to work with the team to grow the audience for the current slate of shows and to help them develop new properties. I’m so excited about this opportunity to help increase the reach and the impact of the Freakonomics Radio Network.”…..SiriusXM announces that entrepreneur, investor, best-selling author, and founder and CEO of Zuckerberg Media, Randi Zuckerberg, will host a new SiriusXM original podcast titled, “Crypto Café With Randi Zuckerberg.” SiriusXM says, “With cryptocurrency being a hotly debated topic, Zuckerberg’s new podcast will feature both casual and educational conversations with metaverse experts, tech futurists, and top business executives who will share industry tips and explain the skills and foundational knowledge necessary to navigate the crypto ecosystem safely and successfully.”

 

The Economy, January 6 Conviction, Roe v Wade Leak, Midterm Primaries/Trump & the GOP, Russia-Ukraine War, COVID-19, Musk & Twitter, and Western Drought Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/2). The state of the U.S. economy, including falling stock and bond prices, ongoing supply chain issues and employment; a retired New York cop is convicted of assaulting a police officer in the January 6 Capitol attack; the unprecedented leak of a draft decision indicating the Supreme Court will overturn Roe v Wade; the primary battles ahead of the November midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine; concerns about the rising rate of COVID-19 cases in some parts of the U.S.; Elon Musk’s attempt to acquire Twitter; and the impact of the Western drought on cities in the U.S. West were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Monday, April 11, 2022

Pending Business: It Should Be Easy. Radio sales pro Steve Lapa says in today’s column that advertising with your news/talk station should be easy. But, is it? He says, “I’m betting it’s more difficult than you think.” If you’ve never done it, try to call your station – from outside the building – and go through the process of reaching the sales department. Lapa offers a “self-check” to see how you do in the area of communication. Read more here.

 

Monday Memo: Bad News. Following-up last week’s column about how stations can better-exploit “good news,” consultant Holland Cooke outlines a playbook for “handling the gaffes inevitable in talk radio.” Read more here.

 

Cumulus Media and Daily Wire Partner for Local Digital News. A new syndication agreement between conservative news and entertainment media company The Daily Wire and Cumulus Media will include delivering Daily Wire digital content to Cumulus radio station websites in key markets across the United States. Under the terms of the deal, Daily Wire breaking news, original reporting, sports, and entertainment coverage by The Daily Wire is available on more than 50 Cumulus radio station websites, with plans to expand in the coming weeks. Cumulus Media EVP of corporate marketing and president of Westwood One, Suzanne Grimes, says, “This new deal expands our partnership with Daily Wire to include yet another Cumulus distribution platform. Our listeners now have a new way to engage with high quality content from The Daily Wire, in real time, on our Cumulus local stations’ websites.” Westwood One and Daily Wire already partner to deliver “The Ben Shapiro Radio Show.” Last year, Westwood One and Daily Wire announced they were expanding broadcast programming offerings with the addition of “The Michael Knowles Show” from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm ET.

 

‘The Regular Joe Show’ Enters Syndication with Genesis Communications Network. Talk radio host Joe Giganti announces he and Genesis Communications Network are partnering to nationally syndicate his “The Regular Joe Show.” His program has been regionally syndicated throughout Wisconsin from his home base at Midwest Communications’ WTAQ, Green Bay since 2020. Giganti says, “When I moved to Green Bay in 2007 from my native Washington, D.C., I quickly recognized the pivotal role Wisconsin specifically and the heartland generally play in our national political identity. This impact was drawn into crystal-clear focus with the intrigue surrounding the 2020 elections.” GCN affiliates director Adam Miller comments, “The GCN family is excited to welcome ‘The Regular Joe Show’ to its morning lineup! With a proven track record in Green Bay and markets across Wisconsin as a whole, we look forward to seeing this broadcast perform at a national scale as our country transitions into an uncertain and polarized future.”

 

iHeartMedia Names Whalley VP of Sales for WOR-AM and WAXQ-FM in New York. Radio sales pro Brittany Whalley joins iHeartMedia New York as vice president of sales for news/talk WOR-AM “The Voice of New York” and classic rock WAXQ-FM “Q104.3.” In this role, Whalley will be responsible for overseeing the Q104.3 and 710 WOR sales teams, including sales growth and strategic partnerships. She will report to SVP of sales Steve DeLusant. Whalley joins the iHeartMedia New York team from Cox Media Group’s Long Island station group where she was general sales manager. She says, “iHeartMedia is a massive leader in the audio space and I am ecstatic to be joining their NYC team. I look forward to collaborating with the incredibly talented sales team and achieving goals the leadership team has put in place. The abundance of resources available at iHeartMedia to super-serve clients is a dream come true.”

 

TALKERS News Notes. The nationally syndicated early afternoon program “The Todd Starnes Show” has two new affiliates in the Sunflower State as Steckline Communications adds the 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm ET show to KQAM, Wichita and KIUL, Garden City, Kansas…..ESPN Radio announces that it is teaming former New York Giants star Chris Canty (left) and sports radio pro Chris Carlin (right) for the new 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm ET “Canty & Carlin” program, effective April 25. Canty says, “I’m fired up to work with Carlin. We were able to establish chemistry going back to our days working at 98.7 FM in New York. He’s a pro’s pro that puts in the work to be at his best and also bring out the best in others. We both take sports seriously, but we won’t take ourselves seriously. We’ll keep our audience informed, make them think and hopefully get a few laughs along the way.”…..Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that current WBBM-FM “B96” weekend personality Gabe Ramirez is beginning a dual role with Audacy Chicago. He’s now a regular fill-in host on sports talk WSCR “The Score.” He begins his work with the station hosting the evening show this week. Also, WSCR promotes Chris Tannehill to senior audio producer…..Federal Communications Commission chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel and National Association of Broadcasters president and CEO Curtis LeGeyt will participate in a fireside chat on the NAB Show on April 25 in Las Vegas. LeGeyt says, “In today’s hyper-competitive media landscape, a regulatory framework that allows local radio and television stations to evolve, adapt and better serve their audiences is of vital importance. Broadcasters look forward to hearing from chairwoman Rosenworcel about her role as the head of a critical agency and her outlook on the future of our industry.”

 

Russia-Ukraine War, the Economy/Inflation, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, Hunter Biden Investigation, January 6 Committee/Greene Challenge, Macron-Le Pen Race, COVID-19, and Elon Musk & Twitter Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. Russia’s continuing invasion of Ukraine and the U.S.’s reaction to the war; the state of the U.S. economy, including high gas and food prices; the November midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the ongoing DOJ investigation into Hunter Biden’s international business ventures; the January 6 committee’s investigation into the Capitol assault and a challenge to Marjorie Taylor Greene’s candidacy for re-election based on allegations she encouraged the January 6 attack; the race for France’s presidency between liberal Emmanuel Macron and conservative Marine Le Pen; concerns about a new wave of COVID in the U.S. as China continues harsh lockdowns; and Elon Musk declines to take a seat on Twitter’s board after acquiring a 9% stake in the company were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Tuesday, February 1, 2022

Start Your Own Business. Consultant Walter Sabo says, in a piece for TALKERS magazine, “‘Get fired from your corporate job and start your own business.’ That is the advice shared with air talent and radio executives when they are kicked out of corporations; start your own business. Working for yourself is a seductive thought. The challenge is that very few corporate employees know how to embrace the frame of mind and tools of self-employed entrepreneurs.” For those considering a move into self-employment, Sabo has some advice to share. “This article is not about ‘how to be successful working for yourself’ because success is never guaranteed. This article is about the ingredients needed to start any business.” Read it here.

‘Bloomberg Business of Sports’ Joins SportsMap Radio Network. The sports business show from Bloomberg Radio and syndication company Key Networks titled, “Bloomberg Business of Sports” is expanding its reach with its addition to the SportsMap Radio Network. The one-hour radio show is airing on Saturdays at 12:00 noon ET and Sundays at 9:00 am ET on the network heard on 100 stations across the U.S. “Bloomberg Business of Sports” is hosted by Michael Barr, Scarlet Fu, and Mike Lynch, and “takes listeners inside the business end of the sports world and explains what it means to fans and their pocketbooks. The show follows the money in the world of sports and the decisions that power the multi-billion-dollar industry. From media and technology to finance and real estate, leagues and teams across the globe have matured into far more than just back-page entertainment. The show reports on sports trades, salaries, endorsements, contracts, collective bargaining and more – all from an insider’s perspective and explains the money behind the final score.” Key Networks COO Dennis Green says, “Sports business is as important as the games that take place between the lines. Working with our partners at SportsMap and having them add the one-hour version of the ‘Bloomberg Business of Sports’ program on their network brings this important content to listeners every weekend.” Gow Media CEO David Gow adds, “We are thrilled to expand our collaboration with Bloomberg. The daily 60-second ‘Bloomberg Business of Sports’ report has been well received by our audience. We know our affiliates and listeners will enjoy hearing the long-form ‘Bloomberg Business of Sports’ show. This move reflects our commitment to providing great content, whether our own or through partnerships.”

Doug Stephan’s ‘DJV Show’ Adds 10 Affiliates. The nationally syndicated radio program “The DJV Show,” anchored by Doug Stephan, adds 10 new stations to its roster of affiliates. Adding the program to their schedules are: KTLR, Oklahoma City; WCAP, Lowell, MA; KUJ-AM/FM, Walla Walla, WA; WKCT-AM/FM, Bowling Green, KY; KLID-AM, Poplar Bluff, KY; KDXU, St. George, UT; and WGVA and WAUB, Finger Lakes, NY. This bumps the program that airs live from 5:00 am to 9:00 am ET hosted by Stephan and co-hosts Jennifer Horn, Victoria Keelan, and Jai Kershner presenting the What’s Trending Report, to more than 325 affiliates nationwide. Stephan comments, “It’s exciting to see the show continuing to grow after all these years. We welcome these new stations to a new and different way to start their day.” Keelan adds, “Creating the show has been a labor of love and a dream come true! We’ve blended my background of pop culture, fashion, and beauty with Jennifer’s vast knowledge of politics, world events, and her incredible sense of humor under the guidance of our fearless leader Doug, one of the most highly-regarded and versatile radio personalities. Together we have created a totally unique listening experience.”

Mark Grote to Host Overnights on WSCR, Chicago. As reported by Chicago media writer Robert Feder, Mark Grote will host the overnight show on Audacy’s sports talk WSCR-AM “The Score.” After the recent passing of overnight host and legendary Chicago sports media personality Les Grobstein, the station is continuing to offer live and local sports talk in the daypart. Grote, who serves as Chicago Bears reporter, will host from 12:00 midnight to 5:00 am three nights per week with other WSCR staffers handling the other weeknights. In a memo to staff, station PD Mitch Rosen says, “There will never be another Grobber. Mark Grote was as close to Les as anyone on our team.”

RTDNF Names Recipients of 2022 First Amendment Awards. The Radio Television Digital News Foundation announces the recipients of the 31st annual First Amendment Awards, which “honor individuals and organizations that exemplify responsible journalism and who practice their constitutionally guaranteed duty to seek and report the truth.” This year, RTDNF honors 10 individuals and organizations, an expanded group that recognizes the 2021 and 2022 recipients of the First Amendment Awards. Honorees will be recognized at the First Amendment Awards Dinner on March 9 at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, DC. This year’s recipient of the Leonard Zeidenberg First Amendment Award is NPR’s Mary Louise Kelly, co-host of “All Things Considered.” The 2021 recipient was Cesar Conde, chairman of NBCUniversal News Group. See all the winners here.

TALKERS News Notes. The Independent Broadcasters Association opens sign-up registration for its fourth bi-annual IBA National Cash Contest. IBA president Ron Stone says, “The IBA National Cash Contest has been one of the strongest benefits of being an IBA member. To be able to participate in a fully managed program like this, with up to three $1,000 winners daily, cannot be beat for the minimal investment of $300 per station. No other national program even comes close.” IBA member station volunteers will fully produce the contest. Vipology will serve as an independent source for all random drawings…..Public media outlet WNYC announces that news pro Phil Corso is joining the organization on February 14 as night editor for the Day-of News desk. WNYC says, “Phil’s arrival is a big step in the newsroom’s transformation and integration, giving us late-night support during the week and on Sunday nights for the first time. It’s a role that Phil is uniquely qualified to fill. He comes to WNYC from the New York Post, where he was a news editor for six years, overseeing that newsroom’s late-night operations and coverage decisions.”…..Veteran radio broadcasters Jim Harrington (WCBS-AM, New York; WBZ-AM, Boston; KDKA-AM, Pittsburgh) and Bill Knight (WUNI, Mobile; KWKH, Shreveport; WQDR Raleigh) are partnering to create a new information and entertainment podcast titled “It’s Another Day.” The “roughly” half-hour show is produced three days per week with the possibility of it becoming a daily program. Harrington says, “We figured we’d start the show and keep a low profile until we ironed out the rough spots. To our surprise, there were very few rough spots. Bill and I enjoy working together and it’s obvious to the listener. And what’s amazing is that the audience, even without that marketing, still found the program. We’ve had an amazing response.”…..iHeartMedia and Frolic Media announce the debut of “LoveStruck Daily,” a 20-minute daily podcast series hosted by romance experts that “dives into the addicting world of love, sharing a new real-life love story everyday guaranteed to give listeners all of the feels.” This is the first podcast from iHeartMedia and Frolic Media with plans to launch additional shows in the future…..Alec Baldwin and his company El Dorado Pictures, along with Cavalry Audioand iHeartMedia, announce a partnership on the new true crime podcast, “ART FRAUD.” The eight-episode series chronicles the fall of the one of the oldest and most revered galleries in New York City: The Knoedler. Narrated by Baldwin and containing never-before-heard interviews with the mastermind behind the years long con, “ART FRAUD” goes deep to paint the clearest picture yet about the greatest deception in the history of American art. It is written by Michael Shnayerson and is based on his Vanity Fair article…..Audacy adds “The BOB & TOM Show” to the weekday programming lineup on KFH-AM/FM, Wichita, beginning today (2/1). Tom Griswold says, “We’ve had a long and successful history in Wichita and we’re happy to be back. Let’s have a few laughs and have some fun again! Many thanks to Jackie Wise and Tony Duesing. What a great way to celebrate the 100th anniversary of KFH.”

Ukraine Tensions, COVID-19, Spotify & Joe Rogan, January 6 Investigation, Supreme Court, Midterms/Trump & the GOP, Beijing Olympics, and Super Bowl Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (1/31). The diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and Russia over the latter’s military build-up at the Ukraine border; the rate of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and abroad and mask & vaccine mandates; Spotify’s challenges over controversy from Joe Rogan’s podcast and music artists leaving the streaming platform; the January 6 investigation and reports of Mike Pence chief of staff Marc Short’s cooperation with the House Select Committee; President Joe Biden’s promise to nominate a Black woman for the U.S. Supreme Court; the battle for control of Congress in the November midterms and Donald Trump’s influence over the GOP; the political and COVID aspects of the Beijing Winter Olympics; and the Cincinnati Bengals’ and Los Angeles Rams’ Sunday victories that put them in Super Bowl XVI were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Front Page News Industry News

Monday, January 17, 2022

Talk Radio Legend Michael Jackson Passes at 87. Talk radio host Michael Jackson, who achieved legendary status during his career in Los Angeles, died on Sunday (1/16) at his home in L.A. at the age of 87. Jackson, who retired from radio in 2007, had been suffering from Parkinson’s Disease for the past 10 years. He is best remembered for his iconic work at KABC, Los Angeles that lasted from 1966 to 1998. TALKERS founder Michael Harrison (who served as a talk show host on rocker KMET in Los Angeles between 1975 and 1986) issued the following statement: “Michael Jackson was one of the all-time greats – a founding father – of talk radio. During his 32-year run at KABC, his very presence gave the station prestige and national stature as one of – if not THE – first very rare commercial outlets fully committed to the spoken-word format. Michael Jackson and KABC were synonymous with the phrase ‘talk radio.’ It should also be pointed out that his heyday in the format began prior to the repeal of the Fairness Doctrine in 1987 which, in my opinion, marked the beginning of the modern era of talk radio.  That made him the member of an exclusive club of radio performers whose historical relevance and influence on things to come in the broadcasting industry are incalculable.” Jackson’s longtime producer Lyle Gregory remembers Jackson in a piece you can read here.

Monday Memo: Podcasting ‘Will Continue to Explode.’ In a marketing piece to the advertising community, iHeartMedia CEO Bob Pittman sees “no signs of growth abating.” In this week’s column, consultant Holland Cooke outlines opportunities at the station level. Read it here.

 

Pending Business: Early Warning. According to the “sales calendar,” January is over, and the first quarter is headed toward spring. Radio sales pro Steve Lapa says it’s time for an early review of your sales game plan. “Like any other performance skill, practice, evaluation and repetition makes for improvement. The skills required for success in today’s sales environment may be different from the last few years.” Read about Lapa’s six questions you can ask yourself here.

Chicago Sports Personality Les Grobstein Dead at 69. Windy City sports media personality and WSCR “The Score” overnight talk host Les Grobstein was found dead at his home in suburban Elk Grove Village on Sunday, according to a report from Chicago media writer Robert Feder. He reports that WSCR operations director Mitch Rosen said Grobstein had been away from his show since last Wednesday due to illness. During his career, Grobstein was sports director at WLS-AM, Chicago for 10 years. He served at sports talk WMVP from 1991 to 1997. He began his overnight stint with WSCR in 2009.

Pioneering Talk Host Susan Bray Dies at 79. A number of news outlets are reporting that former talk host Susan Bray (pictured here on C-SPAN) died in her native Australia last week at age 79. The Des Moines Register has a nice story written by her longtime friend Julie Gammack, who would replace her on WHO-AM. During her career, Bray worked at such outlets as WHO-AM, Des Moines and WWDB-FM, Philadelphia. She earned the nickname the “Saucy Aussie” because of her ribald sense of humor. After a long talk radio career in the U.S., Bray, who had married American Ed DeLong, returned to her hometown of Mudgee, Australia where she and DeLong ran a bed and breakfast.

Maine Station Fires Sportscasters After Body Shaming Incident. The owner of Houlton, Maine radio station WHOU-FM has fired two sportscasters who were caught on a hot mic body-shaming female basketball players during a game between two high school teams. Jim Carter and Steve Shaw were calling the game while watching it on a livestream and made comments about the weight of some of the teenage girls. Carter is a former coach from another school and Shaw had been the athletic director at one of the schools playing in the contest that night. Carter told the Portland Press-Herald that he has apologized to the superintendent of one of the schools, adding, “I don’t even know what to say. Hopefully everybody can get through this and be OK.” Northern Maine Media owner Fred Grant posted a notice of the pair’s dismissal on the station website saying, in part, “Our mission has been to highlight the best of our communities, our schools, the programs we love, and most importantly – our students.  Last night, two broadcasters made comments that were not only inappropriate, they were also blatantly wrong.  Those broadcasters were terminated… We’ve heard from many of you, and many have shared clips of the event in question. While it’s wrong that it happened, I’m going to ask each of you to help us shift the focus back on the excellence we see every day in our students. If you’ve shared the video post, I’m hoping you will take it down, not to downplay the incident, but to better help all of our students move on to the important work and events in their lives.”

MIW Names Three to Board of Directors. Three new members are joining the board of directors for Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio. Haley Jones of MRC Data, Melissa Mitchell of Bonneville International, and Brittney Jackson of Urban One/Radio One are joining the board of the organization that “consists of top-level female radio professionals who use their experience, influence, and resources to help other women in radio develop management and leadership skills.” Jackson currently serves as the general and digital sales manager for Urban One/Radio One in Richmond where she is responsible for recruiting and developing new talent, leading multi-platform sales efforts, and increasing annual revenue. Jones serves as head of independents for MRC Data where she oversees independent labels, small radio groups, and managers with music intelligence for today. Mitchell is Bonneville International’s director of finance, corporate controller and is based in their Denver market. MIW board president Ruth Presslaff says, “We are extremely fortunate to have not one, but three powerhouses join our board. Their success speaks for itself; it’s their willingness to pay it forward for the good of women and our industry that makes each so special and appreciated. I’d be remiss in not thanking the three members leaving our board as their terms end: Kay Olin, principal of Olin & Associates, and past MIW spokeswoman, whose constant leadership, dedication, and long term participation profoundly impacted MIW and me personally; Valerie Blackburn, principal at VKB Consulting, whose financial expertise led MIW through the arduous process of establishing a formal 501(c)(3) status; and Beth Neuhoff, president & CEO Neuhoff Media who provided invigorating energy and challenging ideas that MIW will push ever forward.”

Cowboys Great Chad Hennings Takes Part in SRN News Series. Pictured here is Salem Radio Network VP of news Tom Tradup (left) with three-time Dallas Cowboys Superbowl champion Chad Hennings. Hennings is in the SRN studios working with Tradup on a special, week-long series on SRN News aimed at getting men involved in Christian ministries. The five-part series titled, “Get Off the Bench,” begins airing today (1/17)

Tuscaloosa Sports Talker Jay Barker Arrested on Assault Charges. Former University of Alabama star quarterback Jay Barker was arrested in Nashville and charged with aggravated assault after allegedly trying to ram the car his estranged wife was riding in. Barker hosts the midday show on Townsquare Media’s sports talk WTUG-HD2/W256CG, Tuscaloosa “Tide 100.9” and is married to country artist Sara Evans. She filed for divorce from Barker in August.

COVID-19, Midterm Elections/Trump & the GOP, Texas Synagogue Assault, Djokovic Booted from Australia, NFL Playoffs, Winter Weather, and Martin Luther King, Jr Day Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The high rate of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and the Supreme Court’s rejection of the Joe Biden vaccine mandate; the battle for control of Congress in November midterm elections and Donald Trump’s influence in the GOP; the Texas synagogue hostage incident; Serbian tennis star Novak Djokovic is kicked out of Australia ahead of the Australian Open after violating the country’s COVID protocols; the NFL’s Wild Card weekend; intense winter weather hitting the Eastern U.S.; and the Martin Luther King, Jr weekend and holiday were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.