Tag: "Gene “Bean” Baxter"
Tuesday, April 20, 2021
Round One of March PPM’s Released. The first of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s March 2021 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including: 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’s March 2021 sweep covered March 4 – 31. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In his report he notes that in New York City, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WOR loses two-tenths to finish the month with a 2.3 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) but remains ranked #14. iHeartMedia’s Los Angeles news/talk KFI gains seven-tenths for a 5.7 share finish good for the #2 rank. Across town, Audacy’s all-news KNX rises a half share to a 3.4 share good for the #9 rank in the L.A. market. In Chicago, Audacy’s all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM falls from #1 to #2 after dipping nine-tenths to a 6.2 share while Nexstar Media Group’s news/talk WGN-AM sheds six-tenths for a 3.5 share and the #9 slot. And although Cox Media Group’s news/talk WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta declines 1.3 shares, it remains in the #1 rank with a 9.2 share. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways report for this group of markets here.
St. Louis Sports Media Personality Steve Savard to Exit KFNS-AM. Longtime St. Louis TV sports personality Steve Savard is leaving his radio talk host position with
KFNS-AM, St. Louis for a gig he “can’t pass up.” The St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s Dan Caesar reports that Savard isn’t specific about his new opportunity but it’s likely an out-of-town television job. Savard was KMOV-TV, St. Louis sportscaster and news anchor from 1994 through 2020. He joined the John Hadley-operated sports talk station just three-and-a-half months ago to host the 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm show. It’s not clear how the station will fill the show opening but Hadley indicates it will likely be from within the station’s current talent pool.
iHeartMedia Pittsburgh to Relocate to New Office Building. The Pittsburgh Post-
Gazette reports that iHeartMedia is moving its radio studios and offices from the current offices off I-376 in Green Tree to a new space in a business park in South Fayette adjacent to I-79. The cluster includes sports talk WBGG-AM “ESPN 970” and seven music brands. The story indicates that the 9,400 square-foot space is less than the current offices but will include “significant upgrades.”
Todd Starnes Show Adds Affiliates in Arizona and North Carolina. The nationally
syndicated talk radio program “The Todd Starnes Show” announces the addition of new affiliate stations KXEG-AM, Phoenix in the 9:00 am to 12:00 noon daypart and WHKP-AM/W299BZ, Hendersonville, North Carolina in the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm slot, replacing the Rush Limbaugh show.
TALKERS News Notes. A partnership between Audacy’s Cadence13 and PushBlack – a non-profit media platform for Black people – includes the third season of Black History Year being available on the Audacy digital platform. “Black History Year, Season Three: Fighting Forward” explores a wide range of issues and topics, including: the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921; Fred Hampton and the legacy of the Black Panther Party; environmental racism; the systemic silencing of Black girl’s voices and the importance of raising them; Black art and its power to liberate; the modern-day slavery of prison labor; language and Black linguistics; and more. Cadence13 chief content officer Chris Corcoran says, “We’re proud to partner with PushBlack for this thought-provoking show that spotlights these important voices, moments in history, and cultural and social issues.”…..Fashion authority and style icon Rachel Zoe and her husband Rodger Berman are collaborating with iHeartMedia for their podcast, “Works For Us.” The podcast examines “what does (and does not!) make all kinds of relationships work.
The podcast lets listeners in on intimate conversations with star duos, including many of Zoe/Berman’s celebrity couple friends, and highlights the raw, honest, and relatable issues that affect their relationships.”…..The Talk Shows USA nationally syndicated program “Tom Gresham’s Gun Talk” adds new affiliate stations as WSAR-AM/W240EB, Fall River, Massachusetts and KCSJ-AM, Pueblo, Colorado add the program to their lineups.
COVID-19, Chauvin Trial-Waters Comments, Mass Shootings, Florida ‘Anti-Riot’ Bill, U.S. to Exit Afghanistan, Navalny’s Health, and Mars Helicopter Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (4/19). The rate of positive COVID cases in the U.S., exploding caseloads in several foreign countries, and the status of vaccinations; the trial of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin and U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters’ comment that protestors should “get more confrontational”; the spate of recent mass shootings in the U.S. and the issue of gun control; Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signs the state’s controversial “anti-riot” bill into law; President Joe Biden’s move to bring all U.S. troops home from Afghanistan by September 11; the precarious health of imprisoned Vladimir Putin critic Alexei Navalny; and the successful deployment of NASA’s Mars helicopter were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Friday, April 9, 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, “If I Had a Hammer,” looks back at this past week of April 5-9. The program features guests (in order of appearance): Kevin Casey, executive editor, TALKERS magazine; Erick Erickson, talk show host, WSB, Atlanta; Frank Morano, talk show host, WABC, New York; Gene “Bean” Baxter, talk show host, Podcast Radio, UK; Jim Blasingame, talk show host, Small Business Advocate; Noel Paul Stookey, musician / activist, Peter, Paul and Mary; 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.
Salem Radio Network Host Charlie Kirk Joins WABC, New York for Early Afternoon Hour. Nationally syndicated Salem Radio Network talk show host Charlie Kirk is taking over the 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm hour at Red Apple Media’s legendary WABC,
New York on Monday (4/12). Kirk is founder of Turning Point USA, a best-selling author, and host of a popular podcast who joined Salem Radio Network in October of 2020. He says, “I am thrilled and honored to take the 
same time and station where my friend and American hero Rush Limbaugh launched his national radio show in 1988. I am so impressed with what John Catsimatidis has done since he bought this great station and will commit to doing my part to keep this as one of the top talk stations in America.” Catsimatidis says, “Charlie Kirk has proven to be one of the bright lights of the conservative movement. He’s young, energetic, articulate, and proving to be a great radio talent.” Salem Radio Network SVP of spoken word Phil Boyce comments, “I was fortunate to be the PD at WABC for 14 years. I am thrilled to see WABC once again affirm its status as one of the truly iconic talk stations in the nation, and so blessed to be able to add our newest star Charlie Kirk to their all-star lineup.”
Radio America’s Dana Loesch Featured in The Hill Piece. Nationally syndicated talk radio host Dana Loesch is featured in a story by Thomas Moore in The Hill. The piece, titled, “Dana Loesch has Limbaugh-like aspirations for conservative talk,” explores Loesch’s move to add new affiliate stations in the aftermath of the death of former
fellow midday talk host Rush Limbaugh. Loesch is quick to say Limbaugh was a pioneer whose importance to modern talk radio can’t be underestimated and says the idea of being his “heir” is “crazy.” But Radio America and Loesch herself are aggressively working to gain new affiliate stations during this period when news/talk stations that carry “The Rush Limbaugh Show” are examining their options. She tells The Hill her “happy warrior” approach makes her different than her competition. “I don’t like the nonstop, let’s be angry 24-7. And I just don’t even know how that can be maintained, nor do I have any interest in doing that kind of radio. We have fun. And I think that that shows.” Read the piece here.
La Crosse Sports Radio Voice Mike Kearns Passes. La Crosse, Wisconsin television station WXOW reports that longtime La Crosse sports media personality Mike Kearns passed away recently. Kearns worked his entire radio career at Midwest Family
Broadcasting’s WKTY Radio doing play-by-play for high school and college football and basketball games. Kearns also hosted “The Lead Balloon Show” weekday mornings from 1981 until his retirement in 2016. Kearns assumed hosting duties for that show from his father Charlie who launched the program in 1948. It’s estimated that between Mike and his father, they called more than 1,200 football and 6,000 basketball games for WKTY over a 68-year period. Kearns, along with his father, was inducted into the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame in 2009.
Longtime KFGO, Fargo Personality Tom Wynn Dies at 83. Fargo news/talk station
KFGO reports that former morning drive host Tom Wynn has died at age 83. Wynn, who served with the station for 37 years after arriving in Fargo from Lansing, Michigan in 1979, retired from the station in 2017. Wynn hosted “Tom Wynn and Friends” from 5:00 am to 8:00 am with Bonnie Amistadi and Doug Leier until his retirement. Prior to that, he partnered with the late Larry Ristvedt for “Tom and Larry in the Morning.” No cause of death was included in the report.
PodcastOne Content Available on Samsung Free. As the result of an agreement between LiveXLive Media’s PodcastOne and Samsung, all PodcastOne content will be
available for the first time ever via the Listen tab within Samsung Free on compatible Galaxy S21, Galaxy S20, Galaxy Note20, Galaxy S10 and Galaxy Note10 series devices. PodcastOne president Kit Gray says, “PodcastOne strives to make our content some of the most easily accessed content in the podcasting genre. Listening to your favorite hosts and shows shouldn’t be more than a one-tap process and our agreement with Samsung brings fluid accessibility to podcast fans in a new way.”
COVID-19 Vaccines, Variants and Stats Top News/Talk Story This Week. The number of positive COVID-19 cases in the U.S., the rollout of vaccines, and the status of variants combined as the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week and landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the Derek Chauvin trial and the related issues of race relations and police reform. Following at #3 was gun violence and President Biden’s gun control measures. 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.
Monday, April 5, 2021
Monday Memo: Argument? Or Assessment? Reckoning that “I may be the only person in talk radio who thinks his own opinion DOESN’T matter,” consultant Holland Cooke compares what listeners are hearing to what they’re feeling and warns that “ambiguity is risky.” Read his column here.
Pending Business: Some Good News. Sales and marketing pro Steve
Lapa says last week’s employment news was encouraging – over 900,000 new jobs and counting – the biggest increase we’ve seen in over six months. With the hope of an expanding economy in mind, Lapa asks, “Are you ready for local business leaning into a recovery mode? The smart managers and sellers will be prepared with plans and packages that show advertisers the flexibility and creativity that only radio can offer.” See his five-point checklist here.
Former KROQ, Los Angeles Morning Host Gene Baxter’s ‘Podcast Radio’ Profiled in Forbes. Former longtime KROQ, Los Angeles morning personality Gene “Bean” Baxter (pictured here) has been living in the UK since he retired from LA radio and his current
gig as a presenter on “Podcast Radio” – a DAB+ digital radio station that, as the name implied, broadcasts podcasts over the radio – is the focus of a piece in Forbes. The project is led by British broadcasters Gerry Edwards and Paul Chantler. The broadcast radio station – claiming to be the first in the world to be exclusively playing podcasts on the air – debuted in February of 2020 and can be heard in London, Birmingham, Surrey, Manchester and Glasgow (and digitally via smart speakers, apps, and the Podcast Radio website). Sunday Times radio correspondent Gillian Reynolds says of the project, “Podcast Radio has found its place on the dial because of its investors’ belief that, with millions of podcasts to choose from, people will trust radio to discern the ones that are worth hearing.”
Cumulus Washington Market Manager Ken Roberts Dies at 65. Condolences to the family, friends, and co-workers of Ken Roberts, vice president and market manager of Cumulus Media’s Washington, DC operations, who died unexpectedly on Saturday
(4/3) at the age of 65. Roberts is survived by his wife Sandy and three children. Cumulus Media EVP of operations Dave Milner says, “The Cumulus family is sad to confirm the news that Cumulus Washington, DC, VP/market manager Ken Roberts has died. This is such tragic news and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Ken was a passionate and smart professional, who cared greatly for the team in D.C. He has been a friend and coach to so many in radio and we’re all better because of our time with Ken. We send our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to Ken’s family and are grateful for the time we had with him.”
Townsquare Media Appoints Tom Kreutzian Market Manager for Faribault/Owatonna, Minnesota. Media executive Tom Kreutzian joins Townsquare Media as market president for its Faribault/Owatonna, Minnesota market. The company says that the four-station cluster had been managed under Townsquare’s Rochester, Minnesota leadership structure since 2012. Kreutzian comes to Townsquare Media after serving with Spectrum Reach (formerly Charter Communications) for the past 20 years overseeing sales for several markets in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Townsquare regional vice president Kelly Quinn says, “There is an immense opportunity to partner with local businesses in this area stretching far south of the Twin Cities, which composes a large population base. We are already super-serving some of these areas with outstanding community involvement. And now, under Tom’s leadership and with his digital acumen, we will be able to not only better leverage our recently upgraded radio signals, but also better prescribe our incredible digital solutions, providing our business partners a fantastic path to growth.”
Allison Zolot Joins Townsquare Media as SVP and General Counsel. From the corporate headquarters of Townsquare Media comes news that the company has named Allison Zolot SVP and general counsel. Zolot joins Townsquare from Mayer Brown, LLP where she served as a senior associate representing financial institutions, major corporations, and individuals in high profile litigation and regulatory matters. Townsquare CEO Bill Wilson says, “We are thrilled to have such a talented lawyer join our company. Allison is a strong and effective leader who will make a great addition to our senior management team. I look forward to working with Allison as we continue to drive long-term growth and shareholder value through the execution of our ‘Local First’ strategy.”
Radio Producer Mike Jacobsen Dead at 35. As reported by Chicago media writer
Robert Feder, Mike Jacobsen, a longtime radio producer who served with Chicago sports talk WMVP and news/talk WGN before venturing out West to work in Los Angeles and Phoenix where he served with Bonneville’s news/talk KTAR-FM and sports talk KMVP, died on March 29 at age 35. During his career, he also served as program director for Good Karma Brands’ sports talk WTLX-FM, Madison. No details of his passing have been released.
Dr. Tony Fauci Appears on ‘DeDe in the Morning.’ Pictured above (right) is NIAID director Dr. Anthony Fauci in a split screen photo with Compass Media Networks nationally syndicated morning drive personality DeDe McGuire (left) on this morning’s program. During the interview, McGuire and Fauci talked about the status of the fight against the virus, the effectiveness of the vaccines; and his relationship with former President Donald Trump.
TALKERS News Notes. This Friday evening (4/9), nationally known comedian Pat McGann will host the 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm program for Dave Plier on WGN-AM,
Chicago. The Nexstar Media Group station says McGann has toured with Sebastian Maniscalco and has performed on “The Late Show with David Letterman” and “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.” His first comedy special “Sebastian Maniscalco presents Pat McGann: When’s Mom Gonna Be Home?” was released in summer 2020 and is available on streaming platforms. Pat McGann has been both a guest and fill-in host on WGN Radio…..The “Sexy Liberal Comedy Tour” is presenting its next virtual performance 
Saturday night (4/8) at 8:00 pm ET. The show is headlined by Stephanie Miller along with guests John Fugelsang, Hal Sparks, and Frangela and will be an all-new show of sketch comedy and celebration “that restores our positivity after the horrors of the last four years.” Plus, very special guest Rosie O’Donnell joins Stephanie Miller for a no-holds-barred interview…..Outdoors lifestyle brand MeatEater, Inc. and iHeartMedia announce a major production and distribution partnership, the first of its kind in the outdoor category. Founded with the belief that a deeper understanding of the natural world enriches all of our lives, MeatEater brings together leading influencers in the outdoor space to create premium content, apparel and products in the areas of hunting, fishing, wild foods and conservation. iHeartMedia says “The partnership will leverage MeatEater’s brand, made popular by the Netflix Original MeatEater – currently currently in its 9th season – and chart topping podcast network which averaged over four million monthly downloads in 2020, and the massive reach of iHeartMedia’s cross-platform digital and broadcast network in order to serve outdoor-minded listeners across the country.”
COVID-19, Biden Infrastructure Plan, Voting Legislation/MLB All-Star Game Move, Florida Reservoir Situation, Derek Chauvin Trial, Amazon Union Vote, and NCAA Tournaments Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The number of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., concerns about variants, and the rollout of vaccines; the battle in Washington over President Joe Biden’s $2.3 trillion infrastructure plan; the voting changes in Georgia, Democrats’ federal voting rights bill, and Major League Baseball’s moving the All-Star Game out of Atlanta; the potential flooding issue at a Florida toxic pollutant reservoir; the trial of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin in the death of George Floyd; the vote whether or not to unionize at Amazon’s Bessemer, Alabama operations; and the weekend’s NCAA tournaments and Stanford’s victory over Arizona in the Women’s division were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Monday, November 11, 2019
2019 Radio Hall of Famers Inducted. On Friday evening at Gotham Hall in New York City, nine radio broadcasters were enshrined in the Radio Hall of Fame. Inductees Jim Rome, Joe Madison, Sean Hollywood Hamilton, Harry Harrison, Kevin Ryder and Gene “Bean” Baxter, John Tesh, Dr. Ruth Westheimer and Ryan Seacrest represented the class of 2019 at the ceremony that included 2018 Radio Hall of Fame inductee Mike Francesa as Master of Ceremonies. Fellow RHOF inductees Jim Bohannon, Jim Kerr, and Kid Kelly were in attendance along with celebrity introducers actor Christian Slater (for Hollywood Hamilton), actress Connie Selleca (for husband John Tesh), and “Tonight Show” host Jimmy Fallon (for his friend Ryan Seacrest). Jim Bohannon served as announcer of the event. TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison and his wife, professor/author Bernadette Duncan, were among the hundreds of industry luminaries, friends and family in attendance. “It was a truly memorable evening in a dazzling setting that was a heartfelt celebration of radio and the special breed of talented people who have literally been breathing life into it golden age after golden age,” says Harrison. “We salute the dedicated work of Radio Hall of Fame chairman Kraig T. Kitchin, vice chairman Dennis Green, and the entire nominating committee for organizing and presenting such a deeply meaningful event honoring an indisputably deserving Class of 2019.” Harrison adds, “One of the most noble deeds any organization, platform or individual can perform for an artistic community such as our beloved radio industry – especially as it reaches the extraordinary milestone of its 100th anniversary in a rapidly changing world – is to give credit where credit is due.” Pictured above are (from l-r): Jim Rome, Sean “Hollywood” Hamilton, Ryan Seacrest, Dr. Ruth Westheimer, Joe Madison, Kevin Ryder, Gene “Bean” Baxter, Harry Harrison (seated), and John Tesh. Photo: Michael Kovac/Getty Images for Radio Hall of Fame
From the 2019 Radio Hall of Fame Induction. Above, wheelchair-bound Harry Harrison in the audience watches his children Patti and Patrick make an emotional presentation inducting him into the Radio Hall of Fame.
From the 2019 Radio Hall of Fame Induction. Inductee Joe Madison of SiriusXM Satellite Radio with his old friend, TALKERS magazine publisher Michael Harrison.
Louisiana Judge Denies Felony Arrest Warrant for Former WWL, New Orleans Sports Talk Host Seth Dunlap. The Times-Picayune reports that last week, a New Orleans Police Department detective investigating the case involving former WWL-AM/FM, New Orleans sports talk host Seth Dunlap was denied a warrant to arrest him on a felony count of extortion. Regular TALKERS
readers who’ve been following this case remember that after the official WWL Twitter account posted a gay slur against the openly homosexual Dunlap on September 10, an Entercom investigation appeared to indicate Dunlap sent the tweet via his phone, although 
Dunlap’s lawyer says Dunlap did not have access to the account and didn’t have its password. She also says Dunlap took a lie detector test and passed. Subsequent talks between Entercom and Dunlap’s legal team reportedly included Dunlap’s request for $1.8 million to settle his charge against the station of allowing a hostile workplace environment. Entercom turned the case over to the NOPD and the cops got a warrant to search Dunlap’s phone. In last week’s ruling, Magistrate Commissioner Robert Blackburn said the evidence presented didn’t rise to the level of the definition of felony extortion. The NOPD says the case is still “active and ongoing.” Dunlap, through his attorney, has vowed to sue WWL over the hostile workplace matter.
PPM Analysis: News/Talk. TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents a look at the performances of radio stations based on data from Nielsen Audio’s October 2019 PPM survey, today focusing on the news/talk format. Less than 25% of news/talk stations suffered a (weekly 6+ AQH share) ratings drop-off from the September survey to the October survey. Gainers were led by Bonneville’s KSL-AM/FM, Salt Lake City (+2.4). Comparing year-over-year numbers, 51% of stations on our panel are down, while just 37% see their ratings go up. News/talkers up over last year include: Entercom’s WCCO, Minneapolis; iHeartMedia’s WJNO, West Palm Beach; Cumulus Media’s KMBZ-FM, Kansas City; and iHeartMedia’s WREC, Memphis. See Mike Kinosian’s entire report here.
Monday Memo: That First Call. As programming cutbacks continue, smart on-air people are involved in advertising sales. In this week’s column consultant Holland Cooke shares tips for getting – and making the most of – face time with prospects. Read it here.
Impeachment Proceedings/Ukraine Affair, 2020 Presidential Race, Hong Kong Protests, Veterans Day Holiday, Berlin Wall Falls Anniversary, Looming Bitter Cold Weather, and Australia Bushfires/Climate Change Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The impeachment process against President Trump and the testimony about President Trump’s alleged quid pro quo offer to Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelensky; the Democrats vying to challenge President Trump in 2020; the weekend’s violent protests in Hong Kong; the Veterans Day holiday; the 30th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall; the bitter cold temperatures forecast for parts of the U.S. this week; the devastating bushfires affecting Australia’s eastern coast and the role of climate change in that country’s drought were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
TALKERS News Notes. The New York Post’s Andrew Marchand reports that
Stephen A. Smith has inked a new deal with ESPN – a five-year pact that will pay him about $8 million per year. As TALKERS reported last week, Smith is giving up his midday radio show on the ESPN Radio network at the end of the year. He’ll continue to appear on the cable channel’s “First Take” and will make more appearances 
on “SportsCenter” and on NBA coverage…..The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Rob Tornoe writes that Philadelphia sports media personality Rob Ellis is returning to local TV as co-host of a new show on KYW-TV called, “Odds On,” with station sports anchor Pat Gallen. The sports-betting themed, 30-minute program will air Sundays at 8:30 am. Ellis will continue to handle fill-in duties for Entercom’s WIP-FM. He’s been sitting in for the convalescing Big Daddy Graham on the overnight show. He previously served with NBC Sports
Philadelphia for 17 years…..Chicago media writer Robert Feder reports that longtime WVON, Chicago afternoon talk host Cliff Kelley is being honored in “An Amazing Tribute to Cliff Kelley” on Saturday (11/16) at Parkway Ballroom, in Chicago. Kelley spent 25 years with the Midway Broadcasting urban news/talk station in both the morning and afternoon drive dayparts. He retired from the station last March.
WRKO, Boston Raises $230,000-plus for Disabled American Veterans. Last Friday (11/8), iHeartMedia Boston news/talk “AM 680 WRKO, The Voice of Boston” raised more than $230,000 to benefit the Disabled American Veterans Department of Massachusetts during the DAV radiothon that took place from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm. iHeartMedia Boston VP of news/talk Rob Sanchez says, “Since our nation’s inception, our military men and women have sacrificed their own lives for our freedom. It’s an honor for AM 680 WRKO to have this opportunity to show respect for our veterans with the help of our generous listeners. And to raise $233,593 this year is incredibly gratifying.” Pictured above are (from l-r): DAV-AM director of public relations Robert Lynch, WRKO APD Jarred Diglio, DAV-MA adjutant/CEO Dan Stack, and WRKO morning host Jeff Kuhner.
KSCO, Santa Cruz Owner Michael Zwerling is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast. The long-time owner of news/talk heritage station KSCO, Santa Cruz, CA, Michael Zwerling, is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Zwerling, known throughout the radio industry as one of the last of the fiercely independent owner/operators, is described by TALKERS
publisher Harrison as “an extremely colorful, quirky, eccentric, and intelligent lover of radio – a refreshing counterpoint to the budget-obsessed, community-indifferent, mega-corporate mentality that has consumed the decision-making processes of much of today’s industry.” In a free-wheeling conversation between two old friends, MH and MZ discuss the changing nature of Freedom of Speech and challenges facing the First Amendment in the 21st century digital era, plus more. To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the player box located in the right-hand column on every page of the TALKERS email newsletter.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. WPXY-FM, Rochester air personality Brianna “Breezy” Sloth is promoted at the Entercom CHR outlet to morning drive co-host alongside morning radio pro
Corey James on the “#TeamPXY” show. Entercom Rochester SVP and market manager Sue Munn comments, “Breezy has an undeniable work ethic and tenacity while delivering her one-of-a-kind, friendly and outgoing personality on the air. She has a real familiarization with our station, this market and its devoted listeners, and we’re thrilled to have her on board.” Breezy joined ‘98 PXY’ as an intern for the station’s morning show in 2017. Following her graduation from SUNY Oswego, she assumed various roles for the station, including in promotions and programming as WPXY’s evening show host, morning show fill-
in host, and morning and evening drive traffic reporter…..Entercom assigns programming duties for country KMNB, Minneapolis to WUSN, Chicago PD Kenny Jay in the aftermath of the recent departure of KMNB PM drive host and programmer Lucas Phelan. Jay will continue to work from the company’s Chicago offices…..Programming pro Dylan Salisbury is leaving his APD/music director role at Cumulus Media’s CHR WZPL-FM, Indianapolis for a gig soon-to-be-announced. Cumulus Indy operations manager J.R. Ammons says in a memo to staff, “During his two years at ZPL, Dylan has proven to be a smart, strategic, passionate programmer and I will miss our music arguments every Monday. Please join me in congratulating Dylan on this well-deserved promotion; his last day will be next Friday the 15th. Until a permanent replacement is named, Zakk Babb will be filling in on ZPL.”…..Pictured below in New York City on Friday night (11/8) is pop radio icon Ryan Seacrest being inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame by “Tonight Show” host Jimmy Fallon.
Monday, October 21, 2019
Monday Memo: TV Synergy. The two biggest hits radio suffers during ongoing cost cuts are off-air promotion and local news. In this week’s column, consultant Holland Cooke lists resourceful tactics that smart stations share with equally challenged TV stations. Read it here.
Impeachment Inquiry, Mulvaney-Ukraine Controversy, 2020 Presidential Race/Clinton-Gabbard Spat, G7 Summit Flap, Canadian Election, U.S.-China Relations/Hong Kong Protests, and Brexit Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The impeachment inquiry against President Donald Trump; acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney and FOX News’ Chris Wallace spar over Mulvaney’s Ukraine quid pro quo explanation; the 2020 presidential race and the spat between Hillary Clinton and Tulsi Gabbard; the controversy over the White House reversing its decision to hold the 2020 G7 summit at the Trump National Doral; Canada goes to the polls today as Justin Trudeau fights for his political life; the trade negotiations between China and the U.S. and the ongoing protests in Hong Kong; and Boris Johnson’s Brexit strategy were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Celebrity Presenters Announced for Radio Hall of Fame Induction. When the 31st Annual Radio Hall of Fame induction ceremony takes place at Gotham Hall in New York City on November 8, it will feature a star-studded lineup of presenters that includes: “Tonight Show” host Jimmy Fallon, actor and
producer Christian Slater, “Entertaintment Tonight” co-host Kevin Frazier, veteran radio and cable television programmer and music industry entrepreneur Andy Schuon, SiriusXM vice president/general manager talk programming Dave Gorab, WYNY-FM, New York retired general manager of Frank Osborne, longtime WCBS-FM program director Joe McCoy, and actress, producer, and radio host Connie Sellecca. This year’s inductees are: Sean “Hollywood” Hamilton, Harry Harrison, Kevin Ryder and Gene “Bean” Baxter (Kevin & Bean), Joe Madison, Jim Rome, Ryan Seacrest, John Tesh, and Dr. Ruth Westheimer. Radio Hall of Fame chairman Kraig Kitchin comments, “This event is traditionally heartfelt and emotionally charged as the talented inductees are honored for accomplishments that most only dream of. But this year will be even more magical with this A-list group of presenters who share a special connection with our inductees.”
‘New Jersey 101.5’ to Hold Opioid Town Hall. On Wednesday (10/23) at 7:00 pm, Townsquare Media news/talk outlet WKXW, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” is presenting a special Town Hall broadcast confronting the opioid crisis and how it affects New Jersey residents. The program includes “New Jersey 101.5” special projects director and morning news anchor Eric Scott leading the news and digital departments in bringing listeners personal stories of addiction and recovery, a discussion of the physical and physiological effects of opioids that
lead to addiction, and information about state programs designed to help. The on-air guest panel is comprised of alumni of New Jersey recovery programs: Leah Butacavoli, a residential tech at GenPsych; Alton Robinson, founder of Flanders, New Jersey-based Community Recovery Center of Morris County; and Cheryl Semiz, director of outreach for Sparta, New Jersey-based Garden State Treatment Center. They will answer live, call-in questions from listeners throughout the hour. “New Jersey 101.5” brand manager Anne Gress says, “As the opioid crisis continues to threaten New Jersey, we understand our responsibility to use our powerful voice and multiple platforms to continue the conversation on this pervasive epidemic. I am proud to be part of a station and media company that understands this responsibility and is bringing this critically important information to the community.” The program will be streamed via Facebook Live. The “New Jersey 101.5” news department, under the direction of Annette Petriccione, will air a series of special news segments from station investigative reporter David Matthau titled, “Battling Addiction,” beginning today (10/21) and continuing up to the Town Hall broadcast. Online versions of those stories are being made available on NJ1015.com and the free “New Jersey 101.5” app.
TALKERS News Notes. WHO, Des Moines afternoon drive personality Simon
Conway’s Puppy Jake Foundation raised more than $40,000 in two hours on Friday (10/18) to acquire, raise, and train service dogs for veterans. The sixth annual free BBQ sandwich giveaway raised $4,000 in its first year and raised incrementally more each successive year. A local supermarket donated more than 200 pounds of meat and a local barbecue grilling champion donated buns and sauce and did the cooking. Pictured at right are some of the cars lining up to get their free BBQ. Conway says, “I have the best audience in talk radio. They are astonishing! I also have to thank some of my show’s sponsors who have taken this charity to their hearts.”…..SiriusXM is again offering NBA fans extensive coverage of the 2019-20 season with live play-by-play of every game from Opening Night through The Finals, plus daily in-depth talk and analysis on its SiriusXM NBA Radio channel. The NBA begins its 74th season tomorrow (10/22)…..iHeartMedia teams up with Mental Floss to launch a new history podcast titled, “History Vs.” The iHeartRadio Original Podcast explores the lives of historical figures who made a lasting impact on today’s society and culture, with this season examining U.S President Theodore Roosevelt. Mental Floss editor-in-chief Erin McCarthy hosts the show.
iHeartMedia Names Yesenia Bello SVP of Multicultural Sales. In this newly created position, Yesenia Bello will be responsible for developing sales opportunities with key multicultural advertisers and their agencies across iHeartMedia broadcast stations, digital, podcast, events and Premiere
Networks. She will also work closely with Enrique Santos, chairman and chief creative officer of iHeartLatino, to create an innovative go-to-market audio strategy for iHeartMedia’s Hispanic portfolio. In addition, she will also lead sales efforts for the iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina annual concert in Miami. Bello most recently worked at Google, where she focused on Multicultural strategy and sales for YouTube advertisers. Bello says, “I’m thrilled to join iHeartMedia during a time when cultural sound is creating a seismic shift in the music industry and is reshaping how we consume and how we experience music. iHeart has a great history of embracing its Hispanic and African-American listeners and I can’t wait to help create an innovative, strategic focus in multicultural audiences that will deliver incremental growth across iHeartMedia’s portfolio of assets.”
Jim Bohannon Is Guest on Harrison Podcast. Perennial TALKERS “Heavy Hundred” star Jim Bohannon guests on the award-winning PodcastOne series “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Next year marks the Cumulus Media/Westwood One personality’s 60th anniversary in radio. Harrison and Bohannon discuss the mega-changes that have occurred in the radio business over the past six decades, taking a seasoned look at the
current state of the medium and its trajectory going forward including a fascinating analysis on the ever-changing relationship between content and platform. They also discuss the implications of the disappearance of the local radio station as a community cultural center. To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click here or click on the player box marked “The Michael Harrison Interview” located in the right-hand column of the TALKERS email newsletter and on every page of Talkers.com.
Sales Assistant Gig in Charlotte. At its Charlotte station group that includes news/talk WBT-AM/FM, sports talk WFNZ-AM/FM, and hot AC WLNK-FM, Entercom is seeking a detail-oriented and energetic individual to
serve as a sales assistant. Entercom says, “The primary role of this position is to help coordinate all aspects of the local business and sales efforts – order entry, traffic coordination, promotional fulfillment, and communication with clients and vendors. Other duties include editing and formatting sales proposals, creating client recaps, and assisting in sales and business reporting. Secondary duties include coordinating on-air promos, assisting with employee and client meetings, and assisting in office management. Get more info and apply here.
Station Manager Position in Cincinnati. Christian broadcaster Pillar of Fire has a station manager position open in Cincinnati. The post says: Are you looking for a job with purpose? Contemporary Christian music station “STAR 93.3” (WAKW) Cincinnati is looking for a qualified, well-rounded individual to oversee and ensure the smooth daily operation and growth of the radio
station. This position involves managing the staff, administrative, compliance, technical, program, fundraising, and sales aspects of the station. Reporting to the network director of broadcasting, the station manager is responsible for fostering the positive organizational culture, personality, listener growth, and financial viability of the station and representing the station at local and industry-wide events. Job requirements include a bachelor’s degree, commitment to excellence, and at least 5 years of successful radio station management. ‘STAR 93.3’ offers a positive working environment. Send your resume to: hr@star933.com. No calls please. EOE.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Programming pro Rich Bailey is named program director for Cumulus Media’s country WIVK, Knoxville. He served as the program director for
SummitMedia’s CHR WWST, Sevierville, Tennessee “Star 102.1” for the past 23 years. Cumulus Knoxville VP/market manager Ken Salyer says, “The opportunity to have Rich join our team in Knoxville was simply too good to pass up. His dedication to detail and drive to win is known industry wide. This elevates our group to an entirely new level.”…..Cumulus Media’s Westwood One announces it is now offering a third version of the classic hits format for stations seeking a gold-based pop radio format with more 60s music. Classic Hits Gold complements the company’s modern Classic Hits format, which has evolved to be a core ‘80s format with some ‘90s, and its Classic Hits Rock, that features rock classics. Classic Hits Gold feature proven hit music from the mid-to-late-60s through the early-to-mid-80s, from core artists such as: The Eagles, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Fleetwood Mac, The Rolling Stones, Michael Jackson, Billy Joel, Hall & Oates, Queen, The Beatles, and Chicago…..Entercom announces the lineup for its “7th Annual We Can Survive, presented by AT&T” benefit concert at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. The RADIO.COM event, hosted by local CHR KAMP-FM “97.1 AMP Radio,” will feature performances by Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, Camila Cabello, Jonas Brothers, Lizzo, Marshmello, and Becky G. Proceeds from the event will help the American Cancer Society save more lives from breast cancer. Entercom SVP of programming and musical initiatives Michael Martin says, “‘We Can Survive’ will bring together legendary artists on an iconic stage for a great cause. We’re looking forward to bringing audiences together for an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind evening. The anticipation for this event has been outstanding, with tickets selling out in under 30 minutes.”…..In Louisville, content director and afternoon personality Juan Hustle exits Alpha Media’s hip hop WGZB “B96.5” after a stint of more than four years…..Northeast Broadcasting makes a change at its Burlington, Vermont station group, flipping adult hits WWMP “Free 103.3” to rock at “Rock 103,3.” Core artists for the format include: Red Hot Chili Peppers, Smashing Pumpkins, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, Jimi Hendrix, Papa Roach, Rage Against The Machine, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Nirvana and the Foo Fighters…..There’s more downsizing at Forever Media’s Salisbury-Ocean City, Maryland cluster as Tom Schultz exits classic hits WAVD, Ocean City “97.1 The Wave.” Also exiting her position is classic hits WNCL, Milford, Delaware “COOL 101.3” midday personality Paula Sangaleer…..The Mainstay Station Trust – created to hold and sell four stations Cumulus Media was required to let go of after its 2017 reorganization – will sell WPCK-FM, Denmark, Wisconsin (Green Bay market) and WNUQ, Sylvester, Georgia (Albany market). Educational Media Foundation will buy WPCK for $512,000 and Pretoria Fields Collective Media will acquire WNUQ for $98,000…..iHeartMedia alternative rock WRFF, Philadelphia “Radio 104.5” announces the return of the “Radio 104.5 Miller Lite Mystery Show.” It will take place on Saturday, November 30 at the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia and will feature a surprise performance from one of today’s top performing artists. Fans will learn who the performer is as they walk on stage. The 2018 “Radio 104.5 Miller Lite Mystery Show” featured a performance from Bastille.
