TALKERS 2026 Tackles Radio’s Modern Era Challenges
Pictured above: The “Gaining Traction in a Noisy Digital World” panel at TALKERS 2026: Radio’s Next Chapter. Appearing l-r: Moderator Mike McVay, president McVay Media Consulting; Sherry Goldman, founder, Goldman Communications Group; Heather Cohen, president, The Weiss Agency; Rob Carson, host, Newsmax Radio; Ryan McCormick, co-founder, Goldman McCormick PR; and Joe “Pags” Pagliarulo, host, “The Joe Pags Show,” Compass Media Networks.
The 28th annual edition of the talk media industry’s longest running and most important national gathering – TALKERS 2026: Radio’s Next Chapter – took place at the Lawrence Herbert School of Communication on the Long Island, NY campus of Hofstra University last Friday (6/5). It was produced in conjunction with Hofstra’s multi-Marconi Award winning campus radio station, WRHU-FM. The vibrant, sold-out gathering presented 65 speakers and 338 registered attendees engaged in the sharing of perspectives, advice, and ideas within the fertile environment of dynamic collegial networking.
Pictured above: “The State of Sports Talk Radio” one-on-one session featuring (l-r) facilitator, Harry Hurley, morning host, WPG, Atlantic City, NJ; and special guest, Ryan Hurley, brand manager, WFAN, New York, NY. NOTE: The Hurleys are not related.
The main themes of the 14-hour conference included an intense focus on the future of radio and talk media in the multi-platform digital world of the second quarter of the 21st century. These included exploration of such existential questions as how to gain profile traction in a noisy world; how to regain the public’s trust in the media; how to meet the challenge of generating revenue in a fractured and challenging economy; what entrepreneurial opportunities exist for individuals and independent companies in this new environment; how to expand programming options; how to recruit new talent; how to attract younger demos; how to deal with the enormous unforgiving power of algorithms in scoring the game; how to effectively control and exploit AI; how to make a living in this business; and so much more.
Speakers and attendees included a cross-section of talk media professionals from the worlds of talent, management, ownership, syndication, journalism, engineering, politics, sports, the law, academia, and music – even pro-wrestling!
Beginning next week, TALKERS will provide in-depth photo, video, and story coverage of the historic event. Stand by!
Beasley chief content officer Justin Chase comments, “Will is an outstanding programmer and leader with a proven track record of building great brands, developing talent, and driving results. Having previously worked in the Tampa market, he understands both our audience and our opportunity. His passion, creativity, and deep industry experience make him a tremendous addition to our team, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to Beasley.” Calder succeeds Rick Thomas, who recently departed the company to pursue his next chapter.
City. Three area 18-year-olds have been arrested in connection with the slaying. The Kansas City Star notes that Dodds was a Wyandotte County sheriff’s deputy and a sports media personality who had worked in Los Angeles at FOX Sports 1 and in Nashville with Blaze Media alongside Jason Whitlock. He had returned to Kansas City three years ago and launched a podcast titled, “Jimspiracy.” 
broadcast radio home for Mizzou football, men’s basketball, and women’s basketball. In addition to broadcast coverage, fans will be able to access Mizzou Athletics programming through the KCMO Talk Radio mobile app, online streaming platforms, station websites and exclusive Tigers interviews and content via podcast distribution channels. KCMO program director Pete Mundo comments, “KCMO Talk Radio is proud to be the new home of the Missouri Tigers in Kansas City and Topeka. With Mizzou competing in the SEC, the premier conference in college sports, we’re excited to bring that energy to our listeners. From live game broadcasts and coaches’ shows to exclusive interviews and regular conversation, we’re committed to making Tigers athletics a core part of KCMO Talk Radio and building a true home for Mizzou fans across Kansas City and Topeka.”
commitment to fueling the future of sport by connecting fans with the athletes and moments that define the next generation of the game. We’re proud to amplify NXXT Golf’s mission through the power of radio, podcasts and streaming audio – bringing new audiences to the sport and supporting the next generation of elite talent.” As a cornerstone of the partnership, iHeartMedia will serve as a title and presenting sponsor across NXXT Golf’s premier event portfolio – including the NXXT Faldo Junior Tour, the NXXT Women’s Pro Tour, and the season’s most prestigious championship events.
Pictured at left: Moderator, Jeff Katz, host, WRVA, Richmond, VA.
governors, senators, local leaders, neighbors, and listeners who care deeply about their communities. I’ve had a front-row seat to history, politics, and the people who shape North Georgia. I am grateful for every conversation, every caller, and every experience I’ve had on WDUN.” While Zoller is stepping away from the daily program, WDUN listeners will continue to hear her on the station through the Martha Zoller Minute, as well as in her ongoing role as a local political correspondent for WDUN. The station says it will keep the time slot local, with more details to be announced in the coming days about how local voices, local issues, and local conversations will continue to be featured. Jacobs Media Corporation chairman and CEO Jay Jacobs states, “Martha has been a valued colleague, trusted voice, and dear friend to so many of us at WDUN. For decades, she has brought integrity, intelligence, and passion to every conversation, helping listeners better understand the issues that shape our community, our state, and our nation. We are deeply grateful for her service and thrilled that her voice will remain part of the Jacobs Media family through her continued work as our senior political analyst.”
A local advertiser sends over a ready-made commercial. The music is catchy. The script is polished. The production value is surprisingly good for a company that spends most of its day installing garage doors.
contributing anchor for “Good Morning America,” and creator and host of “The Dropout,” will serve as host of the event. AWMF president Becky Brooks comments, “Amy Richards and Gloria Steinem have spent decades creating opportunities for others, amplifying voices that deserve to be heard, and demonstrating the power of leadership rooted in generosity and shared purpose. Their impact embodies the spirit of the inaugural Gracies Torch Award. We are also honored to welcome Rebecca Jarvis as host of the 51st Gracie Awards Luncheon, where her distinguished career in journalism and commitment to excellence make her a fitting part of this celebration.”
and media personality Jason Jackson Jr. as its first client. Salem Media CEO David Santrella states, “For years, we’ve worked alongside some of the most influential voices in media. Many of them are looking for more than platform monetization. They want a partner who not only understands their audience and shares their values but also has the experience to help them continue building their brands. Launching SCA is a natural next step for us.” SCA managing director Andrew Samalot adds, “As we’ve worked alongside creators over the last several years, we’ve seen firsthand that the most successful talent aren’t just building social media audiences – they’re building brands, businesses, and platforms that extend far beyond any single channel. Our role is to help them identify those opportunities, navigate them strategically, and surround them with representation they can trust as they continue growing their influence and impact.”
of Championship play June 18-21. Leading up to the first day of play, numerous SiriusXM sports talk hosts will broadcast their programs from Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, including Christopher “Mad Dog” Russo hosting “Mad Dog Unleashed” on Tuesday, June 16. in Southampton, NY.
courage, and unlikely twists that built the United States,” the story “uncovers the human drama behind America’s earliest, most pivotal moments. Listeners will meet settlers fighting to survive, preachers sparking mass revival, revolutionaries defying an empire, and founders struggling to invent a functioning nation.” The special will air on more than 350 affiliates of “The Glenn Beck Weekend Program” during the holiday weekend. It’s also available to talk stations in non-competing markets as early as Friday, July 3, and may be aired multiple times throughout the holiday weekend. 
the dynamic strategies required to serve audiences in a crowded ecosystem. Nadine brings an extraordinarily rare blend of creative foresight, business acumen, and deep personal commitment to mission-driven storytelling. She is the right leader at the right time to ensure NPR’s journalism and cultural programming find new ways of serving and enlivening American discourse.” Zylstra most recently served as global head of programming and originals for Pinterest
leadership, and business acumen that have helped drive our growth across audio, digital, podcasting, streaming, and emerging media platforms. As we continue expanding our portfolio and creating innovative opportunities for advertisers and strategic partners, Isaiah’s ability to execute forward-thinking solutions makes him the ideal leader for this role.” 
Detroit and designed to change the media landscape.” The network will feature original sports programming, athlete-led podcasts, live events, entertainment content, music, comedy, and authentic conversations from some of the biggest personalities in sports and culture. Campanelli states, “We’re building a true Detroit-based sports and entertainment platform powered by championship experience, authentic voices, and real relationship. With Tim, Lindsey, Brandon [Dent]and the rest of our incredible team we’re creating something special that fans can genuinely connect with.”
is the change dictates exactly when certain debt holders can convert their debt into voting company stock (Class A and Class B shares), which will ultimately dilute existing shareholders and shift control of the company to the noteholders. Under the Transaction Support Agreement, eligible debt holders can issue a “Notice of Conversion,” forcing Beasley to issue new shares of Class A and Class B Common Stock to those noteholders, thus giving them control of the company. Beasley can avoid this by paying down its remaining debt of about $110 million before December 31 of 2027. If the above scenario takes place, the FCC would have to approve the license transfers before the noteholders could assume control.
…I’m sharing promo copy now airing on my client stations, which addresses listeners’ – and advertisers’ — 2026 apprehensions:
York Times’ “The Daily” leaps NPR’s “NPR News Now” to claim the #1 spot. Other podcasts of note include Cumulus Podcast Network’s “Shawn Ryan Show” rises four places to #13, and Silverloch’s “The Dan Bongino Show” dips two places to #14. 
result is a substantial burden on local newspapers and broadcast stations. New York State Broadcaster Association president David Donovan comments, “By protecting broadcast news operations from unauthorized access by Big Tech, the legislation ensures the economic foundations of producing original, local news by broadcast stations throughout the Empire state. It prohibits using “stealth crawlers” to extract a broadcaster’s news content without permission or payment. In addition, the legislation requires AI systems to disclose when crawlers are employed to extract content from broadcasters.”
specifically for radio sellers, managers, and broadcast professionals, this interactive session will explore how artificial intelligence is transforming sales workflows, prospecting, proposal creation, campaign analysis, and day-to-day operations. Attendees will leave with practical tools and actionable strategies they can implement immediately.” 
Cumulus Media VP of programming operations Doug Hamand says that he is retiring at the end of June. Hamand served for more than two decades with iHeartMedia and its predecessors before joining Cumulus Media in the corporate programming role. He posts to Facebook, “I’ve had a ball. It’s hard to believe that when I started 48 years ago, this day would ever come — but here we are. I’m excited to share that I will be retiring at the end of June.”
podcasts reach consumers throughout their daily routines, creating repeated exposure and strong recall. Audio also commands our attention in ways many formats can’t.” Additionally, radio personalities do something other formats can’t: “When our favorite hosts vouch for a brand, it feels personal. And that built-in influence doesn’t just capture attention — it sparks action.” 74% of radio listeners polled say they have purchased a brand after hearing an ad from their radio host. Finally, Nelson says the intersection of audio and digital marketing is where consumers are reached. “Audio builds awareness, attention, and trust. Digital marketing captures intent and drives action lower in the funnel. Together they drive measurable results with double digital increases in performance.” 
provide CMLI with opportunities to engage with students and the campus community through WHPC and select college events. The college will also make available WHPC-produced public affairs programming, as well as student-produced content for potential use across CMLI’s stations. Connoisseur Media regional SVP Kristin Okesson says, “We’re excited to partner with Nassau Community College to help inspire and develop the next generation of radio and media talent. Partnerships like these create a direct pipeline for passionate students to gain real-world experience, build important industry connections, and ultimately become the future superstars of our business. We appreciate Shawn Novatt and the NCC team for their commitment to creating these opportunities, and we look forward to working together to support students as they begin their careers in broadcasting and media.”
and Gothamist newsrooms, and Delahunty is now head of WQXR. Tanner says, “Stephanie, Emily and Eileen are exceptional, forward-looking leaders with deep commitment to excellence in journalism, culture and storytelling. As audiences increasingly engage with content across multiple platforms, we’re focused on creating experiences that connect our award-winning newsrooms, podcasts, live events and cultural partnerships. I’m excited to see the continued collaboration across NYPR as we strengthen our mission and help shape the future of public media for the next generation.”