Tag: "Buck Sexton"
Monday, September 20, 2021
Monday Memo: “Cave Syndrome.” Even with COVID numbers mounting, “enough anti-vaxers are dug-in that we’re now told we will not reach herd immunity.” So, consultant Holland Cooke reckons that, “if you liked April, you’re going to love October.” Many did, and will, according to survey data. On his TV show, HC and talkers Harry Hurley and Jon Elliot discuss why “many of our listeners are hooked-on staying-home” and they outline an opportune call-in topic. Read it here.
Pending Business: 2022. Radio sales pro Steve Lapa, president of Lapcom Communications Corp, writes in today’s column about budgeting for 2022. Yes, it’s still September of 2021, “as we push into October and the balance of Q4, before you can hit the send button, 2022 will be on your budgeting agenda. Start thinking now about how key metrics will play into your game planning for next year. This cycle will require more thought as we navigate the sales recovery from a COVID-impacted 2021.” Read his piece here.
FOX Sports Radio Unveils New Morning Drive Show. With “Outkick the Coverage” host and founder Clay Travis now hosting a midday news/talk show for Premiere Networks with Buck Sexton, FOX Sports Radio officially launches the network’s new morning drive show that takes Outkick’s place. “2 Pros and a Cup of Joe” starring LaVar Arrington, Brady Quinn and Jonas Knox takes over the 6:00 am to 9:00 am
daypart, effective immediately. Premiere Networks SVP of sports programming Don Martin says, “The FOX Sports Radio family was so proud when Clay Travis was chosen to team up with Buck Sexton to continue the tradition of excellence created by Rush Limbaugh. At FSR, we make a commitment to each of our affiliates to deliver the best national sports lineup in the country, 24/7. Clay’s departure left a hole in our roster, but today, we proudly continue that commitment as we serve up a breakfast of champions with the launch of ‘2 Pros and a Cup of Joe.’” The trio of personalities, who currently host several weekend programs on the network, have guest hosted FSR’s weekday morning timeslot since late May 2021. FOX Sports Radio VP of programming Scott Shapiro adds, “Bolstering what’s already the best national sports talk lineup, we are injecting fun, personality, credibility, strong doses of caffeine, and thought-provoking conversation into morning-drive. After already getting rave reviews from the audience over the past couple months, we are fired up to have this dynamic trio start the day with a smile every morning!”
Triton Audio Marketplace Set for Q1 2022 Launch. The Triton Audio Marketplace will officially launch in the first quarter of 2022 and creator Triton Digital calls it “an innovative new global open audio exchange that, for the first time, will aggregate audiences at scale across three exploding audio segments: broadcast, podcast, and streaming, making it easier than ever for marketers and agencies to plan, buy and measure the impact of cross-platform audio advertising.” Further, Triton says, “The new Triton Audio Marketplace will offer access to the largest single pool of audio audiences, with more than 100 billion audio impressions per month across broadcast, streaming
and podcast properties, and allow marketers and agencies to transact on ALL forms of audio inventory and have access to unmatched, sophisticated measurement and targeting tools across a range of audiences, from mass reach demographics to narrower, more precise targets… the Marketplace will include radio, streaming and podcast inventory from more than 250 media companies, including 17 of the top 20 broadcasters; more than 700 hit podcast titles from the iHeartPodcast Network, the largest podcast network globally; the biggest audio creator platforms, Voxnest and Spreaker; and world-class content from thousands of creators.” Triton Digital president – market development John Rosso says, “Triton has always been the leading innovator in streaming and podcast technology. Based on WARC & Lion’s Intelligence’s new study that shows that 31 percent of the average consumer’s media consumption is now audio, with less than 9 percent of brands media spend being allocated to audio, this new Triton Audio Marketplace is designed to now close this gap by making it easy for any marketer to find their audience in one place and plan and buy these audiences at scale across more 250 audio media partners.”
SiriusXM Names Three to Cross-Brand Marketing Organization. Three new senior marketing executives have joined SiriusXM as the company “expands its digital and streaming focus and launches new national brand advertising that reaches larger
audiences.” Jasmin Chanana is named SVP, digital and customer experience; Anne Milan Alo joins as executive creative director, and Kimberly Wilson is appointed SVP, brand and advertising. SiriusXM chief marketing officer Denise Karkos says, “We are very excited to add these accomplished leaders from top companies to our marketing team as we expand SiriusXM’s leadership position in audio. Their collective experience across major consumer and business-to-business brands will help accelerate our brand and business growth. The diversity of this set of leaders at my table is imperative in our pursuit to build SiriusXM to new heights.”
COVID-19, Biden Spending Plan, Peril Book/Gen. Milley Actions, Justice for J6 Rally, Afghanistan, Stock Slide/Inflation, Gabby Petito Case, and Emmy Awards Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The rate of COVID cases in the U.S., the rationing of health care due to overcrowded hospitals, and mask & vaccine mandates; the debate in congress over President Joe Biden’s $3.5 trillion spending plan; the Bob Woodward & Robert Costa book Peril and reaction to Gen. Mark Milley’s communications with China’s military; the sparsely attended Justice for J6 Rally in Washington; the aftermath of the U.S.’s exit from Afghanistan; the slide in global financial markets and concerns about inflation; the search for Gabby Petito and her fiancé Brian Laundrie; and Sunday night’s Emmy Awards were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Thursday, August 26, 2021
Archived Conversation with Phil Valentine is Featured on This Week’s Installment of Harrison Podcast. A conversation featuring the late Phil Valentine has been retrieved from the archives for this week’s installment of the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” The classic dialogue was recorded in May 2017 – less than five months into the administration of then-President Donald Trump. Harrison and the WWTN-FM, Nashville talk star engage in a deep-dive conversation about a number of still-timely issues including the challenges faced by conservative talk show hosts during this politically charged new era in finding a balance
between playing to the Republican Party’s base while maintaining independent critical thinking. The two also discuss Valentine’s experience at that time as an independent filmmaker of the documentary, An Inconsistent Truth, which provided a rebuttal to former Vice President Al Gore’s film, An Inconvenient Truth, about the environment and climate change issue. Valentine discusses his career in radio and his childhood growing up as the son of long-time member of the U.S. House of Representatives; his love of family; and his close personal and business relationship with his brother. Harrison states, “There was so much more to Phil Valentine as a media practitioner and human being than the headlines surrounding his tragic death indicate. I am gratified that this interview conducted four years ago really presents a full-dimensional portrait of the man and I’m pleased to be able to showcase it for people who might not be familiar with the scope of his contribution to the talk media scene.” To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here.
Larry Elder’s Ex-Girlfriend Files Police Report as Newsom Recall Race Heats Up. Politico is reporting that the former girlfriend of Salem Radio Network talk host and current candidate for governor of California Larry Elder has filed a formal police report alleging “several incidents of domestic abuse” during their relationship that ended in 2015. Alexandra Datig spoke publicly about the allegations last week but says she
delivered her statement to Los Angeles police yesterday (8/25). According to numerous media outlets, Elder is the leading candidate to replace Governor Gavin Newsom should California voters choose to recall him on September 14. Democratic leaders are also reportedly concerned that lack of voter interest could keep enough Democratic voters home on election day and hand the governorship to a GOP challenger such as Elder. Now Alexandra Datig enters the fray with this complaint against Elder. She says she was interviewed by LAPD detectives for two hours on Wednesday, about a week after going public with her story that she broke off her 18-month engagement to Elder after he “pulled a loaded gun from a nightstand” during an argument in 2015. Politico’s Carla Marinucci writes, “She said that out of fear and intimidation, she didn’t file a police report at the time, but that she decided to make a formal report after hearing some of Elder’s public statements denying the gun incident and suggesting she fabricated the account. His denials, she told police, have resulted in her receiving hostile threats on social media.”
WCCO-AM, Minneapolis Afternoon Host Jordana Green on Medical Leave. According to a story in BringMetheNews, afternoon drive co-host Jordana Green is taking a “short leave of absence” to focus on her recovery from a rare form of
Leukemia. Green told her listeners about her diagnosis of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia last October. She says her problem now is her inability to create platelets. She recently posted an update on her condition saying, “I can’t seem to get my platelet or red blood cell count up (no there’s nothing I can do for this). Transfusions are my only option. I’m also neutropenic. Which means my white blood cells have been wiped out and I’m at risk for infections.” Green adds, “I’m ready to be done being sick but it looks like I have two more years of treatment. I hope future posts will be more uplifting.” Green co-hosts the 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm show on Audacy’s WCCO-AM with Paul Douglas.
CNN Audio Unveils New Fall Podcast Lineup. This fall there are new limited-series podcasts launching from CNN Audio. They include, “Tug of War,” hosted by CNN chief international correspondent Clarissa Ward. In this series, Ward travels across the world to meet the courageous people on the front lines of a battle for democracy. She says, “During my career I’ve always been struck by extraordinary acts of courage from
ordinary people. Currently authoritarian regimes are on the ascent across the world, but so are the grassroot movements resisting them. In ‘Tug of War,’ we take you to Syria, Myanmar, Russia and more to meet some of the people behind these movements and see what it takes to risk everything to fight oppression.” Also debuting this fall is, “In Total Recall: California’s Political Circus,” with Dana Bash and “Margins of Error,” hosted by senior data reporter Harry Enten. Longtime podcaster Aminatou Sow joins CNN Audio to host “When Diana Met…,” a new podcast that will revisit Princess Diana’s most notable encounters with politicians, dignitaries and celebrities. Additionally, HLN is launching a new audio companion to their popular true crime series, “Very Scary People.” This season, the show returns to Amityville, New York to revisit the 1974 murders that would spark a cultural conversation.
TALKERS News Notes. WBEN-AM, Buffalo afternoon drive talk host Tom Bauerle just celebrated his 30th anniversary with the Buffalo stations now owned by Audacy and
recently inked a new, long-term contract with the company. Bauerle also shares that a major motion picture based on the life of Saint Cabrini is being filmed in Buffalo and WBEN played a big role in helping put together more than 2,000 extras after local casting director Frank Rossi appeared on his radio program. Bauerle says he is also an extra – actually a featured extra – in the film. We’ll have to wait for the final cut to see if Bauerle makes his big screen debut in the film. Stay tuned!…..Nashville native Clay Travis is the subject of a piece in the Williamson Herald in which he tells writer Carole Robinson how he segued from sports
talk to news/talk. Travis – now half of Premiere Networks’ “Clay Travis & Buck Sexton” show – spoke with Robinson while at a political event for Tennessee State Senator Jack Johnson. He says when the sports world shut down in the spring of 2020 due to COVID-19, he began talking about current events. “The sports audience exploded. I used that as a strong sign. People wanted my opinion.”…..Public radio news/talk KQED-FM, San Francisco – along with its sister television outlet – are presenting a new live event series hosted in its newly redesigned San Francisco headquarters. “KQED Live” events will 
take place in the 238-seat multipurpose theater called The Commons. The inaugural schedule of guests includes: Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, Grammy-winning Oakland recording artist Fantastic Negrito, The Joy Luck Club author Amy Tan, former California governor Jerry Brown, NPR’s Sam Sanders and others. KQED CEO and president Michael Isip says, “Our mission is to inform, inspire and involve. ‘KQED Live’ will provide an inclusive space for personal, participatory experiences that enhance civic and cultural vitality as well as cultivate a sense of community. ‘KQED Live’ will also elevate diverse Bay Area community voices and stories, adding fresh context to our reporting and programs in an informative and entertaining way.”
Afghanistan Withdrawal, COVID-19, Trump Lawyers Sanctioned, January 6 Investigation, Newsom Recall, and California Wildfires Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (8/25). The criticism of the Biden administration’s Afghanistan withdrawal plan and the new threat to the Kabul airport from ISIS; the rate of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., China promotes U.S. military base as COVID origin, and mask and vaccine mandates; Sidney Powell, Lin Wood and other Donald Trump attorneys are sanctioned in Michigan for “abuse of the judicial process” in contesting the election results; former President Donald Trump claims executive privilege as January 6 House committee seeks documents from his administration; Democrats fear lack of voter interest in Gavin Newsom recall could hand governorship to GOP; and the California wildfires were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Friday, July 2, 2021
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 magazine, is now posted. This new episode titled, “Self-Evident Truths,” looks back at this past week of June 28 – July 2, 2021. The program features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS magazine; Harry Hurley, morning show host, WPG, Atlantic City, NJ; Vince Benedetto, CEO, Bold Gold Media Group; Buck Sexton, talk show co-host, EIB Network; Clay Travis, talk show co-host, EIB Network; Mandy Connell, talk show host, KOA, Denver; and Brad Shepard, talk show host, Pioneer Valley Radio, Springfield, MA. The show airs each week on its flagship, WONK-FM, Washington, DC, Friday evenings at 6:00 pm ET. It also airs throughout the weekend on WTIC, Hartford; KSCO, Santa Cruz, CA; KDFD, Denver; KFNX, Phoenix; WPG, Atlantic City, NJ; WVLY, Wheeling, WV; WTRW-FM, Scranton/Wilkes Barre, PA; WVOX, Westchester, NY; KBDT, Dallas; KQSP, Minneapolis; KBKW, Aberdeen, WA; 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; the Virginia Talk Radio Network; CRN Digital Talk Radio Network; the iHeart Podcast Network; Pioneer Valley Radio, Springfield, MA; Podcast Radio, UK and many more. To listen to this week’s episode, please click here. To view the latest TALKERS magazine 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.
Posting of Video Content from TALKERS 2021 Conference to Resume Next Week. TALKERS magazine has been posting videos, under the direction of Art Vuolo, from the recent TALKERS 2021 Conference that took place at Hofstra University on Long Island on June 11. So far, we’ve posted on-demand video of the first four sessions. We’ll continue making new sessions available next week. Have a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July weekend!
Report: Larry Elder Considering Entering California Recall Race. According to a report in Politico, Salem Radio Network nationally syndicated talk show host and attorney Larry Elder is “seriously considering” getting into the California recall race.
The report by Carla Marinucci indicates that Elder expects to make a decision about the September 14 recall election early next week. She goes on to say the 69-year-old media figure is looking for “support from conservative voters who may not be motivated by other Republican candidates, which include former San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer, businessman John Cox, former Rep. Doug Ose, and reality TV star and Olympian Caitlyn Jenner. Elder spokesperson Steve Frank is quoted saying, “Should he get into the race, it will be a game changer because he’s well known, well-liked, and extremely knowledgeable about the problems of California and government. He has been articulate about expressing those views for years.”
WFAN, New York Honors Mark Chernoff with Studio Dedication. Pictured above is Mark Chernoff – longtime program director for legendary New York sports talk radio station WFAN – standing beside the plaque that designates the station’s sports newsroom as “The Mark Chernoff WFAN Newsroom.” The plaque reads: “Program Director 1993-2021. Influenced the sound of New York sports over four decades while nurturing the careers of many who traveled this space. Dedicated June 30th, 2021.” Wednesday (6/30), Chernoff retired from his position as program director of Audacy’s WFAN and CBS Sports Radio Network. Photo: Audacy
‘JOX 94.5’ in Birmingham Unveils New Morning Show. Birmingham, Alabama sports talk outlet WJOX-FM “Jox 94.5” combines two Alabama gridiron greats for its new 7:00 am to 10:00 am show. Greg McElroy, former University of Alabama quarterback and
ESPN college football color commentator partners with Cole Cubelic, former Auburn University offensive lineman and captain and sports analyst 
for the SEC Network and ESPN. He joined WJOX-FM in 2018 as co-host of “3 Man Front.” Pat Smith, a 25-year sports media broadcaster with a TV and radio background, will be a contributor to the new morning show. Smith – who also serves as assistant program director for WJOX-FM – created the college football radio and television
program, “Finebaum,” starring Paul Finebaum. He’ll also continue his hosting duties on the station’s “3 Man Front” late morning program. Damian Mitchell will serve as producer “while adding humor and wit to the program every morning.” Cumulus Birmingham operations manager Ryan Haney says, “This is a show that I have wanted to put together for a long time and I am excited to get started. Greg and Cole are two of the top college football minds in the country. Having them in mornings on ‘Jox 94.5’ in America’s number one college football market is huge.”
SiriusXM’s Michael Smerconish Debuts Duo of New Podcasts. Talk media personality Michael Smerconish is adding two new podcasts to his content for
SiriusXM. Smerconish hosts his eponymous 9:00 am to 12:00 noon ET show on the satcaster’s P.O.T.U.S. channel and is launching “The Smerconish Podcast,” featuring his thoughts on the key issues of the day, and “Book Club with Michael Smerconish,” which will spotlight discussions with authors about a wide range of subjects. “The Michael Smerconish Podcast” will cull “the most poignant moments” from his daily program “whether it’s his opening commentary about a controversial topic, a deep-thought interview with newsmakers, insights from listeners’ calls, or more.”
WPG-AM, Atlantic City’s Harry Hurley Celebrates Anniversary. Morning drive talk radio personality Harry Hurley is celebrating his 30th anniversary hosting a radio show
in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Hurley hosts the “Hurley in the Morning” program on Townsquare Media’s WPG-AM, Atlantic City. He says in a message posted on the WPG website, “I want to take this opportunity to thank my employer, Townsquare Media and my boss Michael Ruble, president of Townsquare Media South Jersey for the opportunity to be a talk radio show host for 30 years, today. Along with my employer and boss, my sincere thanks and appreciation to our loyal listeners and advertisers, many of whom have been with us for so many decades.”
COVID-19 Delta Variant, Vaccines, and Masks Top News/Talk Story for Week of June 28 – July 2. Discussion about the highly transmissible COVID-19 Delta variant, the slowing rate of vaccination in the U.S., and the inconsistent mask protocols combined as the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the indictment of the Trump Organization by NYC District Attorney Cyrus Vance Jr, tied with the U.S. House committee investigating the January 6 Capitol attack. Following at #3 was the troubles affecting the ranked choice voting in New York City’s mayoral primary elections tied with the violent crime spike in America’s large cities. 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.
Audacy Hiring in Promotions Department. There are a number of positions open in Audacy’s promotions department in several parts of the country. The company is seeking three regional promotions managers and it says the candidates must be
“organized, detail-oriented and outgoing professionals to support our Promotions + Experiences team in promotions, contesting and prize fulfillment.” Those positions are open in Southern California, the Midwest, and the Tri-State area. Also, Audacy is searching for an event director and the location for that position is TBD. It directly supports the Director of National Experiences for all aspects of live events production for music, lifestyle, and sports events across the country. Find out more about it here.
Freelance Radio Anchor Opportunity. FOX News is seeking a freelance radio anchor to join the FOX News Audio family as on-air talent for FOX News Radio Network/FOX
News Headlines 24/7 Sirius XM Channel 115. As the freelance radio anchor, you will work under tight deadlines and deliver top-notch newscasts. You have a passion for breaking news and the flexibility to work on a day’s notice. Please be sure to include a link or MP3 file of your demo reel/air check to be considered for this role. Click on the cities to find out more and to apply in New York City, Washington D.C., and Los Angeles.
Monday, June 21, 2021
Monday Memo: Podcasters, Tell The World. “While broadcast content must be mass-appeal, your topic can engage followers – everywhere – if it is specialized and high-affinity.” That’s the word from consultant Holland Cooke who this week explains why “broadcasters need to think ‘narrow-cast’” to make it as podcasters. In addition, he includes three useful links; read more from Holland Cooke here.
Pending Business: The Water Bottle. In today’s column, Lapcom Communications Corp president Steve Lapa, writes “You feel like the
second half of 2021 will be a walk in the park compared to the COVID numbers of 2020. Experienced sellers often reach a point where autopilot kicks in and personal improvement stops.” Lapa then asks, “How does a top biller improve when #1 is as good as it gets?” Since “nobody bats 1000,” he advises, “never stop learning.” Grab a fresh, unopened bottle of your favorite brand of bottled water and read more here.
Round Three of May PPMs Released. The third of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s May 2021 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus. Nielsen Audio’s May 2021 sweep covered April 29 – May 26. Mike Kinosian presents his “Ratings Takeaways” from this group of markets. Albeit -1.6 from April 2021 (12.7 – 11.1), iHeartMedia-owned WLW “700 Cincinnati’s News Radio” (Reds flagship) is the lone mainstream news/talk outlet from these 12 markets to reach #1 (May 2021, 6+). Off a combined two full-shares from April 2021 are Bonneville Salt Lake City’s KSL “News Radio” (8.3 – 6.8, -1.5, first to second, 6+) and cross-town iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM “Talk Radio” (6.3 – 5.8, -.5, fourth to sixth, 6+). Only two news/talkers in these markets that finished in the top 20 post April 2021 – May 2021 improvements: WLW cluster-mate WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” (4.2 – 4.3, +.1, unchanged at #8, 6+) and Audacy Las Vegas’ KXNT “News Talk 840” (1.9 – 2.2, +.3, #21 to #20, 6+). The latter’s Cleveland sibling – WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” – registers sports talk’s heftiest April 2021 – May 2021 increase (3.2 – 4.3, +1.1, #12 to #10, 6+). You can see Mike Kinosian’s complete “Ratings Takeaways” from this group of markets (as well as the first two rounds of markets) here.
Audacy Adds Seven “BetQL Network” Affiliates. The following Audacy outlets will rebrand today (Monday, 6/21) as part of the “BetQL
Network”: KIKK “650 AM The Bet,” Houston; WJFK-AM “1580 AM The Bet,” Washington, DC; WXYT-AM “1270 AM The Bet,” Detroit; WJZ-AM “1300 AM The Bet,” Baltimore; KXST “1140 AM The Bet,” Las Vegas; and KWOD “1660 AM The Bet,” Kansas City. WWWL-AM “1350 AM The Bet,” New Orleans will make the switch next Monday, 6/28. According to Audacy executive vice president of programming Jeff Sottolano, “When we launched the ‘BetQL Network’ in January, we committed to giving our national audience a home for compelling sports betting content as this new landscape was rapidly growing. This expansion is the next step in that goal and we’re pleased to bring new and dynamic ‘BetQL Network’ programming to additional markets and new digital platforms. We are proud to build on our local and national sports audio leadership position with this expanded commitment to production and distribution of entertaining sports betting content to audiences across the country.” The aforementioned rebrands are in addition to previously launched “The Bet 93.1 HD3,” Los Angeles; “The Bet 105.9 FM-HD2,” Chicago; and KEZW “1430 AM The Bet,” Denver. “BetQL Network” programming will also be heard in various times on WTEM “980 The Team,” Washington, DC; WQAM “560 The Joe,” Miami; and WRNL “The New Sports Radio 910 AM & 105.1 FM,” Richmond. The expanded “BetQL Network” weekday programming lineup includes: “The Daily Tip” with Chelsa Messinger and Michael Jenkins (6:00 am – 9:00 am); “BetQL Daily” with Joe Ostrowski and Joe Giglio (9:00 am – 12:00 noon); “You Better You Bet” with Nick Kostos and Ken Barkley (3:00 pm – 7:00 pm); and “Bet MGM Tonight” with Quinton Mayo and Ryan Horvat (7:00 pm – 11:00 pm).
Cumulus Media Birmingham Taps Robinson As VP/MM. Former Univision Communications San Antonio vice president/director of sales, radio, television & digital James Robinson is appointed vice president/market manager of Cumulus Media Birmingham. Cumulus Media’s cluster in that Alabama metro consists of: sports talk WJOX-FM “JOX 94.5”; sports talk WJOX-AM “JOX 3 690 AM”; sports talk WJQX “ESPN 100.5 JOX 2”; news/talk WZRR “Talk 99.5”; news/talk WAPI; and urban AC WUHT “Hot 107.7.” Senior vice president, operations Mark Sullivan remarks, “I’m extremely pleased that James will be bringing his experience and talent to the Cumulus Media team. I’m looking forward to many shared successes with him.” Robinson states, “Now is the best time to work in radio [and] Cumulus Media is a dynamic and innovative company. I’m honored to join the talented team in Birmingham. The Cumulus Media stations in Birmingham are iconic brands that have a history of deep commitment to the community and partner success. I’m looking forward to continuing to build on this success with the talented team in Birmingham.” Prior to his San Antonio tenure, Robinson was director of sales for Radio One Houston; vice president of sales for iHeartMedia Washington, D.C.; and general sales manager for iHeartMedia in St. Louis and Memphis.
Video Coverage of TALKERS 2021 Begins Next Monday June 28. Every keynote speech, fireside chat, special presentation and panel discussion that took place at the recent 24th annual installment of the talk media industry’s longest running, largest and most important national convention – TALKERS 2021 at Hofstra University – was recorded under the direction of renowned industry videographer and chronicler Art Vuolo. These videos will be posted one per business day beginning next Monday June 28, right here on Talkers.com. If you were unable to attend the event in person, you will not want to miss the opportunity to take in some of the most pertinent industry conversation about the state of radio, talk programming, and related media to take place since the start of the pandemic.
COVID-19 Delta Variant, Post-Summit Analysis, January 6 Investigation, Southern Border Crisis, Juneteenth, and the Western Heat Wave & Drought Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. COVID-19 – particularly the Delta variant and the rate/progress of vaccinations – continued to be a dominant topic on talk shows over the weekend along with microscopic analysis of the optics of the Biden–Putin meeting in Geneva on news/talk stations across the nation. Immigration Reform remains a front burner topic, fueled largely this weekend by Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s plan for the Lone Star State to build a wall on its own. The naming of Juneteenth as a Federal holiday came at a very timely juncture for the weekend and the Western States Heatwave & Drought could not be ignored, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
“Hurley in the Morning” Charity Golf Open Raises $45,000+. Held this past Friday (6/18) at the Linwood (New Jersey) Country
Club, the 14th annual Harry Hurley in the Morning Charity Golf Open was not only a sold-out success, it raised roughly $45,000. Event founder/chairman/morning host of Townsquare Media Atlantic City news/talk WPGG “WPG Talk Radio 95.5 FM & 1450 AM” Hurley states, “We had an amazing day with picture perfect weather. We have a wonderful community comprised of some of the most generous people in America.” Hurley’s morning show aired live on-site (6:00 am – 10:06 am) from the country club. With more to follow, the charity this year has awarded grants to: The Broadcasters Foundation of America; The Shore Medical Center Foundation; Stockton University; FACES 4 Autism; Atlantic County Toys For Kids; and The Joan Fineran Nursing Scholarship. In the photo at the right, Hurley (left) – who appears at #37 in the recently released TALKERS Magazine 2021 “Heavy Hundred” – is pictured with Resorts Casino Hotel, Atlantic City president/chief executive officer Mark Giannantonio.
TALKERS News Notes: As reported here last Friday (TALKERS, 6/18), Premiere Networks debuts the “Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show” today (Monday, 6/21) in the timeslot formerly occupied by talk radio icon Rush Limbaugh (12:00 noon – 3:00 pm). Victor Lisle is selected as image/brand voice of the new venture and states, “I’m genuinely humbled beyond belief for this amazing opportunity. Never in a million years did I expect something of this magnitude could happen.” … The entire “JOX Roundtable” morning show – consisting of Lance Taylor, Jim Dunaway, Ryan Brown, and Sean “Rockstar” Heninger” – departed Cumulus Media Birmingham sports talk WJOX “JOX 94.5” last Wednesday (6/16). The four call the exit “amicable” and will start a still undisclosed digital project … According to The Santa Rosa Press-Democrat, former KSRO, Santa Rosa (California) morning talent Pat Kerrigan has returned to the Amaturo Sonoma Media Group news/talk station to host a series of hour-long monthly specials, as well as a podcast, “Pat Kerrigan Unleashed.” … University of Hawaii football announcer Robert Kekaula died Saturday morning (6/19) at the age of 56. Prior to becoming the television play-by-play voice of the Rainbow Warriors in 2011, Kekaula was radio analyst for Hawaii football (1992-2010) … Benztown and P1 Media Group will 
host a free 30-minute webinar this Thursday (6/24) at 1:00 pm EST/10:00 am PST. Hosted by Benztown CEO Andreas Sannemann and P1 Media Group partner Ken Benson, “Next: Creating Amazing Radio, Round 2” will feature Lee Abrams. The programmer/consultant will field attendees’ questions and cover topics that will include: how to create “entertainment magic” on a station; radio predictions for 2026; the future of streaming and podcasting (and how that will affect radio); if contesting is still relevant; and how radio should be using social media … On the opening day of the National Religious Broadcasters conference in Dallas, SRN News’ Lori Tradup (seen in the photo at the left) interviews the head of Voddie Baucham Ministries, Voddie Baucham. Approximately 3,500 delegates from the U.S. and around the globe are attending the annual conference at the Gaylord Texan Hotel … Additions to “The Erick Erickson Show” include Pinehurst Broadcasting news/talk WEEB “Talk Radio 97.3 FM & 990 AM,” Southern Pines, North Carolina and WULK, Crawfordville, Georgia; the show broadcasts via Premiere XDS.
Friday, June 18, 2021
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 magazine, is now posted. This new episode titled, “Delta Blues” looks back at this past week of June 14-18, 2021. The program features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS magazine; Jennifer Horn, morning show co-host (870 AM the Answer) KRLA, Los Angeles/co-host DJV Show; Harry Hurley, host, WPG, Atlantic City, NJ; Bill O’ Reilly, commentator, Key Networks; and Victoria Jones, executive director, DC Radio Company. The show airs each week on its flagship, WONK-FM, Washington, DC, Friday evenings at 6:00 pm ET. It also airs throughout the weekend on WTIC, Hartford; KSCO, Santa Cruz, CA; KDFD, Denver; KFNX, Phoenix; WVLY, Wheeling, WV; WTRW-FM, Scranton/Wilkes Barre, PA; WVOX, Westchester, NY; KBDT, Dallas; KQSP, Minneapolis; KBKW, Aberdeen, WA; 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; the Virginia Talk Radio Network; CRN Digital Talk Radio Network; the iHeart Podcast Network; Pioneer Valley Radio, Springfield, MA; Podcast Radio, UK and many more. To listen to this week’s episode, please click here. To view the latest TALKERS magazine 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.
Travis & Sexton Set To Bow On 400+ Affiliates. Being billed as one of talk radio’s biggest-ever launches, Premiere Networks’ three-hour (12:00 noon – 3:00 pm, ET) “Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show” debuts next Monday (6/21) on more than 400 stations. The program inherits the timeslot held for more than three decades by talk radio icon Rush Limbaugh. Premiere Networks president Julie Talbott remarks, “The reaction from our radio station and advertising partners has been tremendous. Clay and Buck are proving to be a winning combination as we prepare to launch their new show in this highly-coveted timeslot.” Starting in September 2016, Travis began hosting Fox Sports Radio’s “Outkick The Coverage with Clay Travis” on more than 350 affiliates. Travis founded Outkick.com, which he sold to Fox Corporation earlier this month; he currently co-hosts FS1’s first daily gambling TV show, “Fox Bet Live.” Meanwhile, former CIA officer/NYPD counterterrorism expert Sexton previously headlined Premiere Networks’ three-hour “Buck Sexton Show” on more than 200 stations. The NYC native appears on The First, a digital-first TV network available on more than 14 platforms. Charter “Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show” affiliates (all eleven owned by iHeartMedia) include: WOR, New York; KEIB, Los Angeles; KTRH, Houston; WXKS-AM, Boston; WIOD, Miami; KFYI, Phoenix; KTLK, Minneapolis; WFLA, Tampa; KDFD, Denver; KEX, Portland; and KFBK AM & FM, Sacramento. It will also be available as a podcast on the iHeartRadio Podcast Network.
Cumulus Media D.C. Designates Boden Vice President/Market Manager. Inbound from Fredericksburg, Virginia, where he was
VP/market manager of Alpha Media’s four-station group, Jeff Boden is named to a similar position at Cumulus Media Washington (DC), where he will oversee news/talk WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” and sports talk WSBN “ESPN 630 AM The Sports Capitol.” Cumulus Media executive vice president of operations Dave Milner states, “WMAL and WSBN are exceptional stations and demand an exceptional leader at the helm. Jeff Boden is the perfect choice to take these legendary stations into the future. We couldn’t be more thrilled to have him on the Cumulus Media team. His deep experience and relationships in the market make him our ideal choice. Jeff is respected and appreciated by those in and out of the company and steps into the big shoes left by former VP/market manager Ken Roberts, who sadly and suddenly passed away in April.” Boden comments: “I am truly honored to have this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s wonderful to serve the local community and our advertising partners. I look forward to working with so many people I have known for years, as well as with newer additions to the team.” From 2005 – 2012, the American University alum and former president of Delmarva Broadcasting Company was president/general manager of WMAL (as well as then cluster-mates) WRQX and WJZW when the stations were owned by ABC Radio and later Citadel Broadcasting. Boden has served as board chair for the Washington Area Broadcasters Association and in the same capacity for the Greater DC/Maryland Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Round Two of May PPM Ratings Released. The second of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s May 2021 PPM survey period has been released for 12 markets including: Washington (DC); Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis. Nielsen Audio’s May 2021 survey period covered April 29 – May 26. Mike Kinosian presents his “Ratings Takeaways” from this group of markets. In Seattle, Bonneville’s KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” gains four-tenths (6.2 – 6.6, 6+) to jump from second to first, the lone news/talker from these 12 PPM markets to finish at #1 (May 2021, 6+). Its Denver sports talk sibling – KKFN “104.3 The Fan” – notches that format’s greatest (6+) improvement among these 12 metros (2.1 – 3.0, +.9, #18 to #12, 6+). There’s a bit of irony in San Diego as three iHeartMedia-owned news/talk properties each pick up two-tenths: KOGO “News Radio 600” (5.5 – 5.7, fifth to second, 6+); KGB-AM “760 AM” (1.8 – 2.0, #20 to #19, 6+); and KFI “AM 640” (1.6 – 1.8, #21 to #20, 6+). In addition to Seattle’s KIRO-FM, the only other station from these 12 PPM-markets to land on top (May 2021, 6+) is American University-owned public radio news/talk WAMU (10.2 – 9.5, -.7, 6+), which repeats at #1 the fifth straight month. See Mike Kinosian’s complete “Ratings Takeaways” from this second round of markets (as well as yesterday’s first round) here.
KHTK Extends Its Pact With The NBA’s Sacramento Kings. Continuing a partnership that dates back to 1994, Bonneville Sacramento
sports talk KHTK “Sports 1140” will remain the radio flagship of the NBA’s Sacramento Kings. Bonneville Sacramento senior vice president and market manager Steve Cottingim remarks, “We are excited to continue our relationship with the Sacramento Kings for years to come. Bonneville’s commitment to our local community continues to make KHTK the perfect home for our Sacramento Kings.” KHTK program director Jason Ross notes, “Having the opportunity to work on the radio broadcasts for the team and to work for the radio station, I feel the passion of this fanbase and the community.” Sacramento Kings president of business operations John Rinehart adds, “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with KHTK, providing an incomparable experience for the best fans in the NBA. KHTK brings a shared passion for the community and their broadcast not only paints the picture of game action but also provides a high level of entertainment for listeners.” As part of the long-term deal, KHTK will have streaming rights within 75 miles of Golden 1 Center.
Quintet Welcomed To Colorado Public Radio’s Board Of Directors. Joining the CPB board this past Wednesday (6/16) are: Linda Appel Lipsius; Ricardo Baca; Lori Bergen; Steve ErkenBrack; and Sherisse Hawkins. Board chair Philip Johnson remarks, “We are happy to welcome these members to the board of directors. Each of them brings a passion for community and [Colorado Public Radio‘s] mission, along with professional and personal experiences that will enrich and inform the board’s efforts.” Lipsius joined the board of Denver Urban Gardens in 2020 and became executive director in 2021. She is co-founder and former CEO of Teatulia Organic Teas and was a vice president at Orange Glo International. Indigenous-born Colorado native Baca is a journalist, keynote speaker, and entrepreneur. He served as The Denver Post‘s first-ever marijuana editor and founded news vertical The Cannabist, where he extensively covered the advent of adult-use cannabis and related issues across the country. AdCann named Baca “Marketer of the Year” in 2019. Bergen is the founding dean of the College of Media, Communication and Information at the University of Colorado-Boulder, where she holds the James E. De Castro Chair in Global Media Studies. A former journalist, she has been a faculty member and served in academic leadership roles at Kansas State University, Texas State University and Marquette University. ErkenBrack served as president and CEO of Rocky Mountain Health Plans; Mesa County’s elected District Attorney; and Colorado’s chief deputy attorney general. He has founded two law firms in Grand Junction and Denver and is currently “Of Counsel” with Grand Junction’s Hoskin Farina & Kampf, P.C. He was president of the Colorado District Attorneys Council. Engineer/technologist Hawkins is founder/CEO of PageDip. The award-winning business owner has appeared in Vanity Fair and on ABC-TV‘s “Shark Tank.” She worked as a Walt Disney Imagineer, building theme park attractions around the globe, and a system architect specializing in digital video delivery.
NAB Show Accepting Nominations For “Product Of The Year.” The awards recognize the most significant and promising new
products and technologies developed by NAB Show exhibitors. Award recipients will be selected by a panel of industry experts in 16 categories and announced October 12 during the official awards ceremony/reception. Nominated products and technologies must be available for delivery this calendar year. NAB executive vice president of global connections and events Chris Brown notes, “NAB Show is the premier venue to launch and demonstrate new products that sit at the intersection of media, entertainment and technology. We look forward to exploring innovations from the past two years and celebrating their impact on our industry.” In addition to “Radio,” product categories for this year’s NAB Show “Product of the Year” awards are as follows: AI/Machine Learning; Asset Management, Automation, Playout; Audio Production, Processing and Networking; Camera Support, Control and Accessories; Cameras; Cloud Computing and Storage; Digital Signage & Display Systems; Graphics, Editing, VXF, Switchers; Grip Equipment; Hardware Infrastructure; IT Networking/Infrastructure & Security; Location/Studio Lighting; Monitoring and Measuring Tools; Remote Production; and Streaming. Nominations are being accepted through September 17; companies can submit product nominations here.
New FCC Rules Address Emergency Alerts. The latest FCC-adopted policies are aimed to improve the way the public receives emergency alerts on radios, mobile phones, and televisions. The move is in response to a false 2018 emergency alert in Hawaii, which mistakenly warned of an incoming ballistic missile attack. The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 subsequently directed the FCC, in consultation with FEMA, to adopt rules to strengthen emergency alerting in various areas. The Commission adopted a “Report and Order” to ensure that more people receive relevant emergency alerts, enable government agencies to report any false alerts, and improve the way states plan for emergency alerts. Specifically, the “Report and Order” combines the current “Presidential Alerts” category with alerts from the FEMA Administrator to form a new non-optional alert class called “National Alerts.” Under the alert class, all states are encouraged to form State Emergency Communications Committees, which help administer alerting on the state level, or to review the composition and governance of existing committees, as well as require certification of annual committee meetings, while providing a checklist of information that should be included in annual state Emergency Alert System plans. It also specifies that government agencies may report false emergency alerts to the FCC’s 24/7 Operations Center and clarifies how alert originators can repeat their alert transmissions.
TALKERS News Notes. As reported by The New York Post, former WNYC, New York City reporter Fred Mogul has brought a defamation
and wrongful termination suit against the New York Public Radio news/talk station. Filed earlier this week in Manhattan Supreme Court, the suit claims that Mogul was falsely accused of plagiarism over two lines of AP copy included in a draft of a report for WNYC sister site Gothamist but not the completed January 28 piece, which credited AP. Mogul, who was fired February 5, alleges that editor-in-chief Audrey Cooper told over 50 staffers that Mogul failed to credit AP on the story’s byline 
and had “lifted another person’s words.” Mogul, however, claims the draft followed WNYC’s style guide … RAB senior vice president of insights, Annette Malave, successfully completed the University of South Florida Muma College of Business’ “Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace” certificate. The 14-hour course focused on how companies and organizations can create more diverse workplaces while addressing equity issues and fostering inclusivity. Malave comments, “Multicultural efforts have always been a passion of mine throughout my career in the ad industry. The events of 2020 made me realize that I needed more than just passion, but an education on the role that diversity, equity and inclusivity play in our lives and in the workplace. I hope to take what I learned from this course and apply it to what I do in life and what we offer at RAB.” … Word comes from RobertFeder.com that Good Karma Brands Chicago sports talk WMVP “ESPN 1000” will add an FM HD2 simulcast, slated to be functional for tonight’s game between the White Sox and Houston Astros.
Art Lovers Go Hunting For A Bargain. In addition to hosting a daily three-hour (12:00 noon – 3:00 pm) show on Cox Media Group
Jacksonville news/talk WOKV-FM, Toronto-born Mark Kaye does a weekly program on Newsmax TV. When the New York University-educated Kaye heard that Hunter Biden had changed careers to become a professional artist, he decided to do some painting of his own. The subject of his effort was fellow Florida resident Donald Trump. Kaye remarks, “When we reported that Hunter Biden was painting full time, we laughed; [however], when we heard art dealers were prepared to offer [as much as a million dollars] for an original Hunter Biden painting, we cried. If Hunter Biden could get [that much money] for his paintings, so could we.” Kaye crowdsourced ideas from his listeners and asked them what he should paint. “If they asked for it, we painted it.” That’s how he ended up with the portrait of Trump. Kaye’s portrait is currently for sale via online auction with an asking price of $10,000 or best offer. Kaye comments, “We’ve seen Hunter Biden’s work and, quite frankly, this painting is way better. As far as the $10,000 asking price, we didn’t want to be greedy – plus, people love a bargain.” Kaye’s fans have driven the price to $2100. Kaye will announce the winner immediately after the auction concludes next Monday (6/21).
Nielsen-MRI Fusion Study: 37% Of Newsmax Viewers Identify As Independents. A recent Nielsen-MRI fusion study profiled Newsmax‘s audience and found 37% of its viewers described themselves as “independents”; CNN, MSNBC, and Fox News each drew 35%. In addition, 37% of Newsmax viewers label themselves Republicans; 26% say they are Democrats. Seven of ten (70%) report they always vote in national, state, or local elections. According to Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy, “This study shows that Newsmax attracts a very diverse group of Americans from all backgrounds. One thing they have in common is their appetite for real news delivered by objective journalists with no axes to grind – something that’s resonating with independent voters.” Top jobs held by Newsmax viewers include positions in education, office/administration, sales, management, construction, and farming. Newsmax attracts an equal mix of the sexes, with a 50/50 male-female split.
