Tag: "Sales"
Tuesday, May 26, 2020
Memo: Copy Copy Like This. While listeners – whom your advertisers want to meet – have been disrupted, NOTHING resonates like empathy, succinctly conveyed. For this week’s column, consultant Holland Cooke has collected examples instructive to commercial copy we craft for local retailers, and station imaging. Read it here.
Re-Opening Across America, Memorial Day Holiday, Michigan Protests, COVID-19 Tests/Vaccine Research, Presidential Race, Brazil Travel Ban, and ‘The Match’ Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. States across the country begin cautiously re-opening their economies; the Memorial Day holiday takes place without the usual parades and observances; Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s battle against lockdown protesters; the number of COVID-19 tests being done in the U.S. and the global work being done to create a vaccine; the November presidential election; President Trump puts a ban on flights from Brazil as the coronavirus sweeps through the South American nation; and “The Match” featuring Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Peyton Manning, and Tom Brady playing golf were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Pending Business: What’s All the Fuss About? Sales and marketing consultant Steve Lapa, president of Lapcom Communications, writes in today’s column that great sellers have always been built to work remotely. He draws a sports analogy. “High-performing athletes are regularly well-coached and prepared. Then, on their own, away from the head coach – remotely – often with private coaches, they practice. When they return for the next session they are better… the takeaway here is the individual commitment to practicing ‘remotely.’” Read his column here.
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 April PPM survey, today focusing on news/talk formatted stations. It appears that radio listeners shifted from wanting straight news about the pandemic in March – when all-news outlets saw their weekly, 6+ AQH shares shoot up – to wanting to hear analysis and discussion about the COVID-19 pandemic in April. Seventy-eight percent of news/talk stations saw their AQH shares go up during the April survey, led by big gainers such as iHeartMedia’s WISN-AM, Milwaukee (+3.5, 9.3 share), Bonneville’s KSL-AM/FM, Salt Lake City (+2.8, 8.8 share), and Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM, Providence (+2.3, 6.1 share). It’s important to note that radio cume was down across the board in April and that dramatic increases in time spent listening are driving these AQH spikes. With that said, some impressive year-over year AQH increases happened in April. Cox Media Group’s WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta was up 7.3 shares over April 2019 (13.9 share, #1), iHeartMedia’s KFBK, Sacramento shot up 5.6 shares (11.6 share, #1), and Emmis Communications’ WIBC-FM, Indianapolis was up 5.1 shares (10.3 share, #1). Also, in April there were 11 news/talk outlets that ranked #1 in their respective markets. See Mike Kinosian’s entire report here.
Erick Erickson Interviews Mike Pence in Sanitized Space at Waffle House HQ. Pictured above is Georgia talk radio host Erick Erickson (left) conducting an in-person interview with Vice President Mike Pence (right) on Friday (5/22) at Waffle House corporate headquarters in Norcross, Georgia. The interview aired on Erickson’s WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta afternoon drive show on Friday and on his statewide syndicated late morning show today (5/26). Erickson says of preparing for the interview, “I didn’t have to wear a mask. The Secret Service took my temperature, made me set up all my equipment, then made me leave the room so they could sanitize everything themselves. I was not allowed back to my equipment until the interview. It was a new twist on these sorts of interviews.” The two discussed the progress being made in re-opening Georgia, the what-ifs of a potential flare-up of coronavirus cases, and what might be expected for college football this year.
KOIL, Omaha Launches New ‘Local 1290’ Program. Omaha news/talk KOIL “News Talk 1290” says it is debuting a new, daily two-hour program “focusing on the local community as our friends, neighbors and businesses begin to face the new
normal.” The live program is being hosted by Neil Nelkin and will focus on everything “local” in Omaha, Nebraska and Council Bluffs, Iowa as businesses start to re-open and figure out how to go forward. Other NRG Media on-air talent will join the program as co-hosts, including Nikki and Laura from KQKQ-FM “Sweet 98.5,” Mike’l Severe and Damon Benning from KOZN-AM “1620 The Zone,” and Matt Tompkins from KOOO-FM “101.9 The Keg.” Neil Nelkin comments, “Finally a positive show about our listeners, our community and businesses within the Omaha and Council Bluffs area. We want to highlight the local business and hear their stories about how they are doing and re-opening. It’s a community feel good, as we are all in this together.”
TALKERS News Notes. The global pandemic can’t keep Stephanie Miller’s “Sexy Liberal Tour” down. Miller’s SM Radio Productions says, “Until it’s safe to travel
and gather in large groups again, the hysterically funny ‘Sexy Liberal Tour’ is now set to come into fans’ homes with ‘Stephanie Miller’s Sexy Liberal Virtual Tour.’” It will debut virtually on Saturday, June 6 at 9:00 pm ET / 6:00 pm PT and will feature Stephanie Miller, John Fugelsang, Hal Sparks, Frances Callier, and Angela V. Shelton…..Nationally syndicated talk host Buck Sexton interviewed President Trump in the Oval Office for a conversation that aired on his Premiere
Networks-syndicated show. Among the topics discussed were the president’s thoughts on the intelligence community, the judiciary, the “deep state,” “Russiagate,” Michael Flynn, and more. The president also told Sexton the country will “never do this again” and will deal with the coronavirus issue by employing the country’s “best resources” to put out any fires as they emerge…..The Times-Union of San Diego reports 
that Mexican signal XEPRS-AM, Tijuana could be back on the air as “The Mightier 1090” around July 4, to coincide with the return of Major League Baseball. As has been reported, Flagstaff, Arizona-based marketing executive Bill Hagen is leasing the former sports talk outlet and plans to build a lifestyle and sports talk station around afternoon personality – and former longtime “Mighty 1090” personality – Scott Kaplan. The sports talk format on XEPRS ended 13 months ago when Broadcasting Company of the Americas lost its lease on the signal…..GCN-syndicated host Kate Delaney
is honored with a 2020 Communicator Award for Excellence from the Academy of Interactive and Visual Arts. Her DelaneyMediaGroup won in the Commercial Campaign category for “Her Story.” Delaney tells TALKERS magazine the feature airs on 70 stations and Amazon’s Echo…..Last Friday (5/22), WTKS-FM, Orlando’s “The News Junkie” radio show – hosted by Shawn Wasson, Sabrina Ambra, and Chris “C-lane” Lane – held “the World’s First Live Radio Broadcast With Social Distancing.” Pictured below is the trio at their broadcast booth. They say that fans arrived at staggered times to prevent a large crowd outside and those feeling sick were urged not to attend. Each table was limited to only a few guests and hand sanitizer and optional masks were available for all guests. Wasson says, “The show featured plenty of drinks, plenty of fun and games. What we didn’t do is have people shaking hands and hanging all over each other. We showed that with enough planning and preparation you can juggle being safe and having a blast.”
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Last week’s WKQX, Chicago radiothon supporting the Chicago Independent Venue League netted $34,000 for the association and its live music venues. The morning show trio of Brian, Ali, and Justin were on air for 34 hours and interviewed artists including Billy Joe Armstrong from Green Day, Grouplove, Silversun Pickups, Cage The Elephant, Local H, KFlay, All Time Low, Powfu, Chip Z’Nuff, and Jerry from JBTV. The event was sponsored by Goose Island Beer Company, supporting Chicago music venues since 1988…..iHeartMedia flips classic hits WJDX, Jackson, Mississippi to hip hop as “The New Real 105.1.” The station’s lineup includes “The Breakfast Club,” with DJ Envy, Angela Yee, and Charlamagne Tha God in morning drive. iHeartMedia Jackson market president Mike Comfort says, “We are excited to launch ‘The New Real 105.1’ in Jackson and bring another choice for hip hop and R&B to the market. Based on our research, we know not only is this going to connect with our market’s audience, but this format is also going to produce a strong listener base for our advertisers – things just got real!”…..iHeartMedia Philadelphia re-brands alternative WRFF as “ALT 104.5.” Station PD and midday personality Amber Miller says, “Who doesn’t love the big reveal at the end of a makeover show. Well, ta-da! Philly’s Alternative Rock station is now sounding bigger and better than ever, combining the music and personalities our listeners love with this fresh, energetic new aesthetic. The station offers listeners the same music and entertainment they crave, just with a fresh new coat of paint.”
Pending Business: Masks, Appointments, and Social Distancing
By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President
PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — As restrictions are slowly lifted in your area, businesses will cautiously reopen.
Given the current unpredictable business environment, your challenge is to be at your best. Stay smart about what and how you’re selling.
As local business categories slowly come back to life, dealing with restrictive guidelines never before anticipated, marketing dollars may take a more cautious path to recovery. Some of your advertisers are dealing with the logistics of government-funded loans to bridge the gap, and the new challenges that will arise. Will hours and operations ever be the same as before the coronavirus pandemic? Some businesses will be overwhelmed powering through phone messages for appointment — think hair salon, personal grooming. And other businesses may never re-open.
Monday, April 20, 2020
Monday Memo: The Trump Show. There’s lots of buzz about that New York Times report that the president told the coronavirus task force “he wanted to start a White House talk radio show.” To which Rush Limbaugh invited him to guest host. In this week’s column, consultant Holland Cooke asks “What if…?” Read it here.
COVID-19 Statistics and Projections, the Re-Open the Country Debate/Stay Home Protests, Trump vs Governors, U.S.-China Relations, Deadly Nova Scotia Shooting, Financial Markets Activity/Oil Prices Crash, and Celebrities with Coronavirus Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The tally of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S. and the death toll as well as the projections for future cases and deaths; the debate over “re-opening” the country and the organized protests against “stay home” directives; President Trump’s war of words with some of the country’s governors over the breadth of his powers; the pressure on the Chinese Communist Party as calls for an investigation into the coronavirus’ origins mount; a lone shooter posing as a police officer kills 16 people in Nova Scotia; the world’s financial markets’ reactions to the coronavirus pandemic and the glut of oil; and global celebrities with COVID-19 were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Pending Business: Time Is of the Essence. Sales and marketing consultant Steve Lapa, president of Lapcom Communications, writes in today’s column about adjusting to the new dynamic of deadlines and timeliness. “Adjusting to working from home, with limited access to the people and resources you rely on is a daily climb. More than likely you are now participating in (multiple) online meetings that eat the clock. Still, you are paid on performance and need to keep the dynamics of the sales process moving forward in a timely fashion. Like it or not, for today, you need to own this new dynamic.” Read his column here.
SmartTalk Radio Network Distributing ‘The Hard Question.’ The daily talk radio program “The Hard Question” with host Blanquita Cullum is now being made available to stations across the country via the SmartTalk Radio Network. Cullum
says, “‘The Hard Question’ is all about trying to help the audience to be empowered, to be able to hear a deeper level of a conversation on an issue that may impact them and change their life.” The network says, “With decades of experience in broadcasting and government service, 
Cullum knows the decision makers and her guest list routinely includes the names you hear in the headlines: governors, senators, ambassadors, foreign heads of state, as well as regular citizens.” SmartTalk Radio Network general manager Chuck Duncan says, “Occasionally in network radio, a diamond emerges from the clutter of ho-hum. Blanquita Cullum is a woman of worldly experiences and a deep participant of the inside rail, allowing her to ask and offer sensible solutions to the hard questions. With unique clarity and above-the-fold guests, BQ covers the critical issues with a compassion, intellect, and understanding that evidences her emergence onto the national scene. She’s got a voice that must be heard.”
KXL, Portland’s Steve Leader Retires. Longtime morning news anchor Steve
Leader retired from his role with Alpha Media’s KXL-FM, Portland on Friday (4/17). Leader had been a news anchor on KXL for 34 years. His KXL news colleague Pat Boyle posted photos and a tribute to Leader on Facebook, writing: “Legendary news guy Steve Leader’s last day! Thanks Steve for keeping Portlanders informed for more than 30 years. You are a huge talent and will be greatly missed. Enjoy your retirement; you deserve it.”
Round Three of March PPMs Released. The third of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s March 2020 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. The survey
period covered February 27 – March 25. You can see all the 6+ numbers from subscribing stations here. The intense coronavirus news consumption since the pandemic was declared in mid-March has driven listening to all-news and news/talk radio stations. Some of those seeing increased weekly 6+ , AQH share increases include: Alpha Media’s KXL-FM, Portland which added 1.8 shares in March to finish with a 6.7 share and a leap to the #3 rank in the 
market; iHeartMedia’s KFBK, Sacramento rises 1.9 shares from February to March for a 10.3 share and its third straight month at #1; Entercom’s news/talk KDKA-AM, Pittsburgh climbs 1.3 shares to finish with a 5.6 share and the #5 rank in the Steel City; Bonneville’s KSL-AM/FM, Salt Lake City rises to the #3 rank by adding 1.1 shares to end the survey with a 6.0 share; and iHeartMedia’s WLW-AM, Cincinnati tacks 1.8 shares onto its February 8.3 share to finish March with a 10.1 share and the #1 rank in the market. You can see all of TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian’s Ratings Takeaways here.
‘New Jersey 101.5’ Presents Next Coronavirus Town Hall. This Thursday (4/23), Townsquare Media’s news/talk WKXW-FM, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” is presenting the next in its series of coronavirus Town Hall broadcasts. The station’s senior political director Eric Scott leads the news and digital departments in
highlighting the sacrifices being made by the front-line workers dealing with this health crisis. He says, “Nurses, EMTs, and police officers are among the many frontline workers who are putting their own health at risk during this crisis. We will both highlight their stories and offer them the resources they need to deal with the overwhelming stresses of their jobs.” This edition’s on-air expert panel will feature: Debbie White, president, Health Professionals and Allied Employees; Pat Colligan, president, New Jersey Police Benevolent Association; Barbara Platt, president, New Jersey EMS Council; and first-responder crisis councilor Michael Bizzarro, PhD, LCSW, BCD.
Legislators Seek Paycheck Protection for Local Journalists and Broadcasters. A bi-partisan effort to assist local journalists and broadcasters suffering with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic is being spearheaded by U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), John Kennedy (R-LA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and John Boozman (R-AR). They sent a letter to senate leadership urging them to ensure any future legislation make thousands of local newspapers, TV, and radio stations around the country eligible for small business assistance under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). In the letter, the senators called for waiving the Small Business Administration’s affiliation rule to allow local media outlets to access funding, pointing to the critical role these outlets play in keeping communities healthy and informed. The senators say in their statement, “Ensuring that local news outlets remain viable at this critical time is not only a matter of fairness but is essential to public health. Local newspapers, radio, and television stations provide important local content that keeps their communities informed. People rely on local newspapers and broadcasters to cover school and business closures, to widely communicate public health guidance, and to combat life-threatening misinformation.” National Association of Broadcasters president and CEO Gordon Smith comments on the move, “NAB is grateful to Senators Cantwell, Kennedy, Klobuchar and Boozman for their leadership in supporting expanded access to Small Business Administration loans for local radio and television stations under the Payroll Protection Program. America’s broadcasters are providing trusted and credible lifesaving coverage to keep citizens safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, yet local stations are suffering advertising losses of historic proportion that will undermine this critically important service. We urge congressional leaders to support this proposal to provide immediate SBA loan eligibility to more local radio and TV stations.”
TALKERS News Notes. WHO, Des Moines afternoon drive personality Simon Conway signs a new deal with the iHeartMedia news/talk station that runs through
2022, with an additional one year option. Conway’s program is also heard on the company’s WMT, Cedar Rapids and WOC, Davenport, Iowa. Conway says, “WHO Radio was and remains the gold standard for local talk radio in America. I’m delighted to have signed this contract and look forward to many more years broadcasting on these heritage stations.”…..Indianapolis-based news/talk personality Tony Katz, who 
hosts “The Morning News” on Emmis’ WIBC-FM as well as his own syndicated late morning show, is putting his flagship station together with local businesses and sponsors to feed first responders across Central Indiana. He says, “‘Hoosiers Helping Heroes’ does weekly deliveries of meals, snacks, and drinks to local hospitals. It’s our way of saying, ‘thank you.’ And businesses across the area have been great to work with. They want to help. People want to help. We’re getting calls from restaurants all over the area. All types of businesses and individuals are asking if they can be a part of it.”…..NPR president and CEO John Lansing tells company
staffers in a memo that the organization is preparing to cut costs due to a budget shortfall of between $35 million and $40 million due to the coronavirus pandemic. He says, “We do not have any position eliminations on the table now, and it is our goal to avoid them as much as is reasonably possible. However, I don’t have a crystal ball so I can’t guarantee anything other than that is my intent.”…..JVC Media 
is airing the “Florida Man Radio”-based Shannon Burke afternoon drive program on its Long Island news/talk outlet WRCN “103.9 LI News Radio” JVC Media’s EVP for Florida Shane Reeve says, “Now more than ever, our community needs to come together and stay at home to keep their families and loved ones safe. With that being said, as humans we have the need to socialize and feel like we are still part of the society
that we love. The ‘Florida Man Friday Happy Hour with Shannon Burke’ is that bit of relief and laughter you need to keep some sense of normalcy in your life.”…..The nationally syndicated “America Tonight” with Kate Delaney adds two new affiliate stations as Seehafer Broadcasting’s WFHR-AM, Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin and Rck 1 Group’s WVLY, Wheeling, West Virginia add the show to their program lineups.
Wheeler Morris Named Hubbard Seattle VP/Market Manager. In Seattle, Hubbard Radio names Wheeler Morris vice president and market manager for the five-station cluster. Scott Mahalick, who’s been serving as interim market manager, is named operations manager for the Seattle station group. Morris has
been serving the company as manager of corporate podcasting strategy. Wheeler says, “I’m excited to join the great team at Hubbard Radio Seattle and to help continue the success that the strong brands have built over the years. I’m especially excited to have an experienced and 
accomplished partner like Scott Mahalick to lead content and brands. He’s the right person to lead operations.” Mahalick comments, “It brings joy to my heart that we will have the good fortune of Wheeler at the helm of Hubbard Radio Seattle. Our team deserves a dedicated full-time manager focused on our success. I’ve had the advantage of getting to know and work with Wheeler this past year in his capacity as the head of our podcasting efforts. I can tell you he is a people person with great charm, empathy, wicked smart, driven and innovative as they come. Bring it Wheeler!”
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Country radio personality Shawn Parr is launching a new, daily syndicated program via Key Networks titled, “Shawn Parr’s Across the Country” on June 1. Key Networks says the four-hour, localized country music entertainment program features Parr’s
trademark warmth, wit and love for country music, and is available for stations Monday-Friday via FTP delivery. The show is customized to air anywhere in a station’s lineup between 6:00 am and 12:00 midnight. Key Networks adds, “Known as ‘The Ambassador of Country Music,’ Shawn Parr is one of country radio’s brightest and most familiar voices. With nearly 30 years in country radio, including 10 years as a nationally syndicated on-air host, Parr takes country fans front row-center to country’s biggest stars and hottest music.” Parr says, “My entire career has always been about the country listeners and they will lead the way with this show as well! Teaming up with Key Networks is like a dream come true. Together we have worked so hard to get this show on the air and trust me when I say I am fired up and can’t wait for you to feel the energy ‘Across The Country!’”…..Air personality Corey Dillon exits Hubbard Radio’s country KNUC, Seattle “98.9 The Bull” after a two-year stint. Dillon says via Facebook, “There are no hard feelings on my end. It’s business, and I understand that. I have learned so much over the past two years here at ‘The Bull’ and feel more confident in my craft than ever.”…..Cumulus Media names Paul Williams director of programming for Westwood One Nashville. In this role, Williams will oversee the marketing, content, and operations for Westwood One’s nationally syndicated country programming. Williams was most recently vice president of marketing & artist development for Reviver Entertainment Group in Nashville…..iHeartMedia Atlanta announces the Spanish hits format is moving from WBZY at 105.3 FM to WRDA at 105.7 FM. iHeartMedia SVP of programming Meg Stevens says, “This is a tremendous opportunity to move the signal where more of the Hispanic audience can enjoy the music, information and the top-rated ‘Tu Mañana Con Enrique Santos’ show.”
Monday, April 13, 2020
Monday Memo: V, L, W. Music programmers know that, “by the time WE are sick of a song, it’s just becoming a hit.” With coronavirus pandemic “number one with a bullet,” consultant Holland Cooke urges radio to heed Dr. Fauci’s plea “not to take our foot off the gas” with mitigation advice. Read his column here.
Push to Re-Open Economy, U.S. Covid-19 Cases and Projections, November Election/Mail-in Voting, China Restricts Coronavirus Research, Financial Markets Activity/Oil Glut, and Celebs with Covid-19 Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. Reports that President Trump wants to re-open the economy by May 1; the tally of confirmed Covid-19 cases in the U.S. and the experts’ projections for peak infections; the November presidential race and the debate over voting by mail; the call to investigate China’s early handling of the epidemic and the CCP’s restriction on any investigation into the coronavirus origins; the world’s financial markets activity and the global oil glut; British Prime Minister Boris Johnson leaves the hospital and other celebs with Covid-19 were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Pending Business: Mother’s Day. Sales and marketing consultant Steve Lapa, president of Lapcom Communications, says, “Mother’s Day is around the corner. You think I’m kidding, right? Raise the Mother’s Day flag, now? In the middle of all this coronavirus pandemic?” Yes. Lapa writes in this week’s column, “Mother’s Day will be different this year, for sure. Maybe there will be no dinner reservations at that favorite restaurant, or (in-person) relatives gathering with Mom. We know the current restrictions, no matter where you live. Some may change, maybe not, but what about Mom? Through thick and thin, near and far, we always honor Mom.” Read Steve’s column here.
Guardian Angels Founder and WABC Host Curtis Sliwa and Fellow Angels Assist Homeless. Pictured above in a still from a YouTube video filmed yesterday (4/12), is Guardian Angels founder and WABC, New York midday host Curtis Sliwa helping Martha, a homeless woman who lives in Penn Station. Sliwa says Martha and other emotionally disturbed persons “are everywhere.” He says Martha is “dramatically disturbed to the point where she can only now speak in gibberish. I remember her four years ago when you could have a somewhat normal conversation with her. Living in Penn Station has aged her dramatically and caused her to move into the ‘Twilight Zone.’ Her legs were infected and in need or medical attention. None of it would be provided by the city or state that acts normally as if these fellow citizens of ours don’t even exist. I helped her clean her own legs with the alcohol solution and then nourished her ravished body. At the rate that Martha is deteriorating she will soon be in a pine box buried in Potters Field ‘Heart Island.’ She is someone’s daughter, she has a family, but her mind is so damaged that it is impossible to recover that information from her. On this Easter Sunday we should all look at her and ask ourselves how in the richest country in the world with such enormous resources in a city that is the economic engine for the whole world that we allow Martha to wallow in her feces and urine and act as if she doesn’t exist. Shame on all of us. Where is the humanity? It was bad before the way we would ignore these fallen people, but now the spread of coronavirus gives us a chance to close our eyes and run away. We, the Guardian Angels, will not forsake the forgotten.”
Alex Jones Warned by FDA. According to KTXS-TV, Abilene, Texas, the Food and Drug Administration issued a warning to talk show host Alex Jones to stop
claiming that products hawked on his website – including toothpaste and mouthwash – prevent Covid-19. The story also indicates Jones was sent a cease-and-desist letter from New York Attorney General Letitia James back on March 12 to stop promoting the products. The FDA says that Jones’ claims about the products promotes illegal and unapproved drugs that can carry financial penalties. The FDA notice isn’t legally binding, but the agency can sue if Jones doesn’t acquiesce.
Christopher Tarr Joins Magnum Media as Group Director of Engineering. After serving for the past 16-plus years with Entercom in Southeastern Wisconsin, Christopher Tarr takes on the group director of engineering role with Magnum Media. The company operates 16 radio stations and three LPTV stations in
Southern Wisconsin. Tarr says, “I made lifelong friends at Entercom and am so proud of all we accomplished with the Milwaukee and Madison facilities. It was very hard to leave, but I couldn’t be happier Dave [Magnum] selected me for this newly created GDE position. We’ve known each other 15 years. We’re kindred spirits, sharing a love and passion for radio. We both started out as deejays in our mid-teens in our hometowns. His sons, Reid and Ty, literally have radio in their blood. Reid’s wife, Chelsey, is transitioning from being a 4th grade public school teacher over to the stations. I smile every time I meet yet another staff member that’s been with Magnum since the 90s. So, with this family-owned business, radio is a lifestyle. It’s my lifestyle, too, so this is a perfect match.”
WTOP-FM, Washington Produces Covid-19 Updates for Crosstown Stations. The “2020 Radio Together Campaign” from Hubbard Radio involves all-news WTOP-FM producing a :60 second feature for DC market music stations including
United Media-operated Regional Mexican WBHQ-AM “La Mera Mera 1050 AM” as well as Howard University’s urban contemporary WHUR 96.3, Entercom’s sports talk WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan,” hip hop WPGC, and classic hits WIAD “94.7 The Drive.” The feature is delivered to the stations four times per day. WTOP news and programming director Julia Ziegler comments, “We are incredibly excited to partner with each of these amazing radio stations in bringing our community together during the coronavirus crisis. Now more than ever, the importance of working together and continuing to bring news, information, and entertainment to listeners is crucial.”
TALKERS News Notes. All-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM, Chicago managing editor Julie Mann is presenting a webinar titled, “Radio and Digital Media During a
Pandemic,” as part of the 2020 Publicity Club of Chicago Luncheon Series on Wednesday (4/15). Mann will address issues including: What are journalists looking for in a news cycle that is almost exclusively about coronavirus? What are the best ways to tell your story when your visuals are limited? How has radio and digital media responded to the 
pandemic?…..Beasley Broadcast Group Inc. will hold its Annual Meeting of Stockholders on Tuesday, May 26 at 12:00 noon ET. Although the company plans to hold the meeting at its headquarters in Naples, Florida, it says the coronavirus pandemic may cause the meeting to be held virtually. Issues to be voted upon include: The election of nine nominees for directors; and an advisory vote to approve named executive officer compensation…..Entercom’s RADIO.COM Sports Digital Network is presenting “You Better You Bet – Countdown to the Draft,” a nightly, two-hour digital and broadcast show dedicated to coverage of the 2020 NFL Draft. It airs this week, as well as April 20 to 22 and April 27. The show is co-hosted by Nick Kostos and Ross Tucker and will welcome national RADIO.COM sports insiders and local team guests for team-by-team analysis, nightly discussions, opinions and stories around the league. Guests will include RADIO.COM sports insiders Jason La Canfora, Brian Baldinger, Michael Lombardi, and Mark Herzlich…..Reality TV star Kate Chastain (Bravo’s “Below Deck”) is joining SiriusXM to host “Unapologetically Kate Chastain” on Andy Cohen’s Radio Andy channel beginning tomorrow (4/14). She says, “I like to consider myself a recreational sociologist, which is quite liberating because it means I’m not judging people, I’m basically a scientist-ish. I look forward to voicing my thoughts with Radio Andy listeners nationwide!”…..iHeartRadio unveils a new episode of the podcast “Committed,” titled, “In Spirit and in Cardboard.” It’s hosted by Jo Piazza and tells three stories of love and commitment in the age of Covid-19: how a Maine doctor moves out of his house to protect his wife, toddler, and unborn child from the virus; how a local cardboard factory steps up to make cardboard cutouts of the120 guests who won’t be at a young couple’s wedding; and how one couple got married on the Nintendo video game Animal Crossing.
INTRIGUING INFORMATION FOR TALK SHOW HOSTS: The Epoch Times Drops Bold Video Documentary Investigating the Origins of Covid-19 and Its Connection to the Chinese Communist Party. Covid-19, which originated from China, has rampaged through the world and caused more than 80,000 deaths,
infecting at least 1.4 million. However, the true number of deaths and infections is most likely unknown due to the alleged underreporting of cases from mainland China. In a startling video documentary presented by The Epoch Times and NTD (New Tang Dynasty TV), investigative reporter Joshua Philipp takes an in-depth look at the progression of the pandemic from January to April and leads viewers on a journey of discovery to bring the truth behind the matter to light. From the Huanan Seafood Market in Hubei Province to the scandals at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, from long-running experiments on viruses to military takeovers, suspicious activities arise from every corner. Through vigorous investigations and the piecing together of hidden information, the documentary attempts to unearth a more complete understanding of the situation surrounding the rise of this pandemic. Suspicions uncovered from official reports and publicly available information also sprouted more questions, leading to surprising findings and inquiries. To view the entire video documentary, please click here. To book Joshua Philipp for interviews call Victoria Jones at the DC Radio Company at 202-227-7067.
Music Radio News and Career Moves. A surprise move on Friday (4/10) by iHeartMedia has the “The Kane Show” gone from its home base at WIHT-FM, Washington and the Premiere Networks. There’s been no
official comment from iHeartMedia or Premiere. Airing in morning drive at WIHT now is “Your Morning Show” with Intern John, Riley Couture, and Radio Rose. Affiliate stations received notice of the change late Friday…..Entravision Communications re-brands two of its English-language radio stations in the Brownsville-McAllen-Harlingen, Texas market. KFRQ is now “Q94.5 FM All Rock All the Time,” and KVLY is “107.9 RGV-FM 
More Hits More Variety.” KFRQ features James Echavarria, a.k.a. “Rock-n-Roll James,” daily from 6:00 am to 12:00 noon. Afternoons (3:00 pm to 7:00 pm) is hosted by San Benito, a.k.a. Charlie Corona. KVLY
features “Roxy in the Morning” weekdays from 6:00 am to 12:00 noon. Entravision VP of audio Nestor Rocha states, “We are seeing that the communities in the greater Rio Grande Valley are diversifying their taste in music genres. To better suit what our audiences are most interested in listening to, we have enhanced our two radio formats to better connect with our listeners, and in turn, our advertisers with their customers. We continue to be dedicated to providing top-quality, entertaining programming that resonates with our local communities.”
Pending Business: Grab an Oar
By Steve Lapa
Lapcom Communications Corp
President
PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — Chances are there is no page in your sales plan called “pandemic.”
Where do you start? Start with real world experience.
Business Unusual
Business owners are facing decisions they never anticipated. Stay open, close short term, borrow, fold, or change?
Monday, April 6, 2020
Monday Memo: Sulking? Or SHINING? Because “you never get a second chance to make a first impression,” consultant Holland Cooke describes how smart stations are making every effort to sound relevant to first-time listeners, whose listening habits have changed during the pandemic crisis. Read his column here.
The U.S. Coronavirus Cases and Death Toll, the Hydroxychloroquine Debate, Churches Defy Anti-Gathering Orders, Financial Markets Activity, Celebs with Covid-19/Boris Johnson Hospitalized, ‘Tiger King’ Documentary, and Presidential Race Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The tally of confirmed U.S. coronavirus cases, the death toll, and projections for the worst numbers to appear later this week; reports of a debate in the White House’s Situation Room over the effectiveness of the anti-malaria drug hydroxychloroquine in treating covid-19; a number of Southern churches hold services in defiance of anti-gathering orders; the world’s financial markets react to the coronavirus pandemic; the celebrities – including British Prime Minister Boris Johnson – who’ve contracted covid-19; the uber-popular “Tiger King” documentary airing on Netflix; and the status of the presidential race were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Pending Business: Grab an Oar. Sales and marketing consultant Steve Lapa, president of Lapcom Communications, writes in today’s Pending Business column offering some tips on creative thinking in this time of unprecedented upheaval. He presents some ideas for seeking out new advertising categories as well as how to present the notion that “radio listening is UP.” Read his column here.
Barron’s: Advertising Is Disappearing. It’s not a pleasant read by any means, but the Barron’s piece titled, “Google and Facebook Can’t Save the Advertising Industry This Time,” presents an unvarnished look at the current state of the
advertising industry as Covid-19 keeps the majority of the American – and global – economy shut down. It addresses all sectors of the ad-supported media – radio, TV, print, cable and digital. Yes, digital. As the story explains, the problem is devastating in its simplicity: “Even the most prominent ad buyers lack reasons, and often the means, to buy ads. Global travel is on hold; for airlines, hoteliers, cruise lines, casino operators, and car-rental firms, there are no products to promote. With auto factories shut, there is little need to push cars. With movie theaters closed, there are no film trailers. And aside from grocery stores, pharmacies, and large box-store chains, most retailers are shuttered. Meanwhile, many of the small and medium-size businesses that buy online ads are struggling to stay solvent.” Read it here.
Ramsey Network Unveils ‘Work Matters with Ken Coleman Podcast.’ The newest podcast from the Ramsey Network is titled, “Work Matters with Ken Coleman.” The Ramsey Network says, “From burnout and bad bosses to the
hottest in-demand job skills, each daily, short episode takes on relevant topics to help listeners stay informed and on top of job market trends. Ken gives expert, practical advice on turning obstacles into career opportunity.” Ramsey Solutions EVP of media Brian Mayfield adds, “This is an extension of the brand that Ken has already successfully established. It’s a daily dose of relevant content that will have an immediate impact on the redefined job market facing our listeners. It could not be timelier in its launch.” Coleman is the #1 bestselling author of The Proximity Principle and hosts the Ramsey Network’s “The Ken Coleman Show,” currently airing on 40 radio stations across the country and “The Ken Coleman Show” podcast which has more than 16 million downloads.
‘The Jesse Kelly Show’ Launches Via Key Networks. The three-hour, late morning program “The Jesse Kelly Show” debuts today (4/6) in national syndication via Key Networks. The program airs live from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon ET (delayed broadcasts available via XDS) and stars U.S. Marine veteran, former Congressional candidate, and conservative radio and television host, Jesse Kelly. The program
emanates from flagship station KPRC, Houston. Key Networks notes that due to the coronavirus pandemic, it is offering the “Test Drive Jesse Kelly” program through April 30, 2020, with no agreements or contracts necessary to try the show. Stations that are experiencing any staffing challenges due to the coronavirus and have programming gaps to fill can try the show with no contract or commitment. Kelly joined the U.S. 
Marine Corps in 2000 and on 9/11, watched the towers fall from inside his barracks. He later deployed to Iraq as an infantry Marine during the Second Persian Gulf War and received an honorable discharge after four years. In 2010, with no political experience to speak of but many opinions to share, Kelly decided to test the political waters and ran for Congress in a Democratic-controlled district of Arizona. Though a virtual unknown in the race, he was only narrowly defeated by Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. Kelly used his large social media following as a platform to continue many of the conversations started on the campaign trail. He joined KPRC, Houston in 2018 to host a one-hour show. Key Networks chief revenue officer Dennis Green adds, “Jesse Kelly has been a leading voice during the coronavirus pandemic, arming listeners with actionable facts on how to keep their families safe. He is also very supportive of small businesses during this very challenging time, encouraging America to support workers and small businesses. Listeners across the country will respond to Jesse’s candor, relatability, insight and humor, at a time when they are looking for a reasoned and informed perspective and a trusted companion for uncertain times.”
Howie Carr Radio Network Launches Drive to Feed ER Workers from Local Restaurants. The Boston-based Howie Carr Radio Network – syndicator of the Howie Carr show – is launching the “Howie Carr’s ER Eats USA!” program in which
it is teaming up with local hospitals in New England to feed hospital workers and support local restaurants during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Howie Carr Show is asking listeners and readers to donate anywhere from $4.99 to $19.99 and all funds collected will go to directly to restaurants to feed hospital workers. The Howie Carr Radio Network will work with hospitals to make sure that the food is packaged appropriately to keep hospital staff safe. Further, Howie Carr show advertisers that donate $1,000 to the campaign will be featured in promos and on the landing banner on Howiecarrshow.com (Limit 5 sponsors). All sponsorship money will go directly to the cause.
Next ‘New Jersey 101.5’ Coronavirus Town Hall to Air Thursday. This Thursday at 7:00 pm, Townsquare Media’s WKXW-FM, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” is presenting the latest in a series of Town Hall broadcasts addressing the severe
economic consequences New Jersey residents and businesses are facing from the coronavirus crisis. “New Jersey 101.5” senior political director Eric Scott will host the broadcast. He says, “New Jersey has already seen the highest number of jobless claims in our state’s history and a majority of businesses have been ordered to close. Our Town Hall 
broadcasts bring those affected in direct contact with the experts that can help them survive these unprecedented conditions.” For this edition, the expert panel will feature Robert Asaro-Angelo, New Jersey State Labor Commissioner; Tim Sullivan, CEO of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority; Michele Siekerka, president of the New Jersey Business and Industry Association; and Michael Affuso, director of government relations for the New Jersey Bankers Association. Scott and his guests will take calls from listeners during the live program that will be available on-air and streamed via the station’s website and Facebook Live.
TALKERS News Notes. In an effort to assist businesses in the markets in which it operates, Beasley Media Group is presenting a complimentary webinar, titled: “Financial Relief for Small Business Owners: The Road Map.” The free, 30-minute online webinar takes place on Wednesday (4/8) and features representatives of the U.S. Small Business Administration providing relevant discussion of how local businesses can qualify and apply for emergency funds and grants available during these unprecedented times…..iHeartMedia news/talk KOGO, San Diego is airing a special series relative to the Covid-19 pandemic each evening at 8:00 pm titled, “Right Now.” The hourlong show features a different KOGO or KFMB-AM personality taking on a different topic. On Monday evenings, KOGO business reporter Bob “Sully” Sullivan addresses financial matters; Tuesdays it’s KOGO afternoon host Lou Penrose talking mental health; on Wednesdays KFMB’s Mark Larson tackles physical health with the aid of medical professionals; Thursdays will feature KFMB’s Mike Slater taking on spiritual issues; and Fridays will see KOGO morning anchor LaDona Harvey exploring tips for living under quarantine and social distancing…..iHeartMedia Orlando presenting an online job fair called Keep Orlando Working on Thursday and Friday (4/9-10) designed to assist residents of the community finding jobs during this time. The two-day online recruitment event custom web page will feature human resource recruiters and business owners conducting interviews via video chat and reviewing resumes in real time. iHeartMedia Orlando partnerships manager Chianna Ray states, “iHeartMedia Orlando is committed to its community especially during times of crisis. Thousands of service industry professionals are currently out of work. There are companies that are hiring right now that need quality help and we look forward to make that connection through this virtual event.”
Music Radio News and Career Moves. In Los Angeles, CHR KAMP-FM “97.1 AMP” morning personality Chris Booker exits the station as part of Entercom’s cuts and furloughs. Booker hosted the program with co-hosts Chelsea Briggs and Krystal Bee…..iHeartMedia promotes Reggie Brown to the
program director role at Milwaukee hip hop outlet WKKV “V100.7.” Brown is the station’s afternoon drive host – a role in which he will continue. He takes over for Bailey Coleman, who was promoted from PD of WKKV to VP of programming for the company’s New Orleans cluster. Brown says, “I’m thrilled to lead the ‘V100.7’ team. I’m excited to continue to bring quality programming and thriving events to our Milwaukee community while continuing to entertain our audience in the afternoons.”…..This evening (4/6), the “FOX Presents the iHeart Living Room Concert for America” will receive an encore airing on FOX TV. The hourlong program hosted by Elton John and featuring numerous pop artists raised more than $10 million for Feeding America and The First Responders Children’s Foundation. Tonight’s airing takes place at 9:00 pm ET…..Condolences to the family and friends of record industry figure Neil Lasher, who died at the age of 73 at Danbury Hospital in Danbury, Connecticut after complications from Covid-19. Lasher was a former executive at Sony ATV. He’d also worked for such labels as Chrysalis, EMI, Polydor, United Artists, and others.
Monday, March 30, 2020
Monday Memo: Smart Advertisers Relate. While many radio sales reps are in pandemic panic mode, smart sellers are helping nimble advertisers do what radio does best: tell a lot of people something useful quickly. In this week’s column, consultant Holland Cooke lists commercial copy points he’s hearing. See them here.
Growing Coronavirus U.S. Death Toll, Trump Extends Social Distancing Through April, Criticism of Trump Administration, Financial Markets Activity, Celebs with COVID-19, Lawmakers’ Stock Trades Controversy, and Presidential Race Among Top News/Talk Stories Over the Weekend. The rising U.S. death toll from COVID-19; President Trump extends the nation’s social distancing policy through April 30; criticism of the Trump administration’s handling of the coronavirus epidemic; the pandemic’s effect on the world’s financial markets; celebrities who’ve tested positive for COVID-19; the investigation into U.S. lawmakers who sold stocks ahead of the global sell-off; and the November presidential election were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.
Pending Business: The Vice President’s Lead List. Sales and marketing consultant Steve Lapa, president of Lapcom Communications, writes in today’s Pending Business column that smart salespeople should take a cue from Vice President Mike Pence’s Presidential Task Force press conference last week in which he named the three biggest companies hiring – today. Read Lapa’s tips for smart marketing in a new normal environment here.
Forever Media Cuts Staff at News/Talk WDEL, Wilmington and Elsewhere. The Wilmington News Journal reports that Forever Media has taken the drastic step of laying off “more than 10 people” from its radio properties as the result of a revenue hit from the coronavirus pandemic. Included in the layoffs are WDEL talk
personalities Allan Loudell and Robin Bryson. Forever Media closed on its $18.5 million purchase of Delmarva Broadcasting’s 10-station radio portfolio last May. Bryson is quoted telling the News Journal that the mandated closure of non-essential businesses hit business hard. “That’s a good portion of who our advertisers are. So, you know they’re not open, they can’t afford to advertise so they cancel their contracts and then we don’t have any commercials to run and we’re not getting any revenue.”
WGAN-AM, Portland Drops Morning Drive Co-Host Ken Altshuler. In Portland, Maine, Saga Communications drops morning drive co-host Ken Altshuler – the
left-leaning half of the show – as part of a restructuring move. Altshuler has been co-host of the morning show since 2002. The change leaves conservative Matthew Gagnon hosting solo. Altshuler tells the Portland Press Herald that over the past few months, the station has been moving to a single-host format in other dayparts. Altshuler says he plans to continue in the media, either with another radio station or with a blog and podcast. Sixty-seven-year-old Altshuler is a family law attorney who practices in Portland.
Ramsey’s ‘Message of Hope’ Becomes Regular Podcast. The Ramsey Solutions organization announces that a new podcast from the Ramsey Network called, “A
Message of Hope” is launching. The Ramsey Network says, “There’s a lot of fear and uncertainty in our country right now. Let’s change that. Ramsey Network hosts Dave Ramsey, Ken Coleman, and Rachel Cruze share practical money and career advice through the ‘Message of Hope’ series. This brand-new podcast also features episodes from Chris Hogan, Christy Wright, Anthony O’Neal, and Dr. John Deloney to encourage you in every area of life.”
‘Ark Midnight with John B. Wells’ Partners with Talk Media Network. The weekly, three-hour radio show “Ark Midnight with John B. Wells” is partnering with Talk Media Network for marketing and affiliate relations. Talk Media Network CEO Josh Leng
says, “John B. Wells is an expert in weaving stories, news, and interviews together with an artful thread and his instantly recognizable voice. ‘Ark Midnight’ is a destination nighttime show.” Wells comments, “It’s great to be working with Talk Media Network. They understand the program and have added new affiliate stations before we could even make this announcement.” The show recently was added to the program schedule at WNTW-AM Richmond and KLKS-FM in Brainerd, Minnesota and soon joins KYAH-AM in Delta, Utah and WIOS-AM, Tawas City, Michigan.
Tony Bruno to Reunite with Harry Mayes on SiriusXM. Sports talk pro Tony Bruno – via SiriusXM and JAKIB Media Partners – is returning to a daily sports talk radio show after five years away from the format. He’s being joined on the new
“Tony Bruno Show” by former WPEN-FM, Philadelphia “The Fanatic” partner Harry Mayes. The show launches on SiriusXM’s Dan Patrick Radio channel on April 6. Bruno says, “I want to thank all of my fans who have followed and supported me through the years. I am grateful to everyone who has encouraged me to return and who still wants to hear my daily fun approach to sports and current affairs, which has been my forte’ for over four decades in broadcasting. I can’t think of a better platform than SiriusXM and reuniting with my former ESPN colleague on the Dan Patrick Radio channel, and I am thrilled to be able to return to the airwaves with my good friend and co-host Harry Mayes. There is no doubt that we will provide an exciting, fun, sports talk radio program that joins a sea of great content on SiriusXM.”
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 February 2020 PPM survey, today focusing on news/talk-formatted stations. Fifty-three percent of the news/talk stations on our panel were up (weekly, 6+ AQH share) over the January 2020 survey with just 27% seeing a ratings decline. Leaders in the improved column include Cox Media Group’s WSB-AM/WSBB-FM, Atlanta (+1.4) and iHeartMedia’s WISN, Milwaukee (+1.0). Comparing February 2019 to February 2020, WSB-AM/WSBB-FM is again the leader, posting an increase of 4.4 shares. iHeartMedia’s WTVN, Columbus adds 2.7 shares year-over-year, and Entercom’s KFTK-FM St. Louis is up 2.1 shares. Just two news/talk stations ranked #1 in their markets in February – CMG’s WSB, Atlanta (11.4 share) and iHeartMedia’s KFBK, Sacramento (8.4 share). However, five news/talk outlets ranked #2 in their respective markets. Find out which ones, here.
TALKERS News Notes. The KSTE, Sacramento-based “Armstrong & Getty Show”
starring Jack Armstrong and Joe Getty adds new affiliate WGOW-FM, Chattanooga, starting today (3/30). Earlier this year, the program was added to other Cumulus Media talk stations including KABC-AM, Los Angeles and KSFO, San Francisco…..The nationally syndicated “Free Talk Live” program – led 
by show founders Ian Freeman and Mark Edge – adds new affiliate stations: KGGF-AM, Coffeyville, Kansas; WTSN-AM/FM, Dover, New Hampshire; WNTW-AM/FM, Richmond; WAIM-AM, Anderson, South Carolina; and WCSI-AM/FM, Columbus, Indiana to put its total affiliate roster at 209 stations…..ESPN’s “Paul Finebaum Show” makes its return to the cable TV SEC Network with an audio-only format at 3:00 pm ET. Although Finebaum has been doing the show for ESPN Radio for the past two
weeks, it has not aired on the SEC Network. Finebaum comments, “Despite all of us adjusting to this new normal and distancing ourselves from each other, we’re probably more connected right now than we’ve been in a long time. I’m really proud of the conversations and discussions we’ve had on the show, especially over these past few weeks, and look forward to returning to television and continuing to support and uplift one another during such an uncertain time.”
Music Radio News and Career Moves. Last night’s “FOX Presents the iHeart Living Room Concert for America” event aired on FOX Television as artists including host Elton John and guests Alicia Keys, Backstreet Boys, Billie Eilish, Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day, Camila Cabello and Shawn Mendes, Dave Grohl, H.E.R., Mariah Carey, Sam Smith,Tim McGraw and more performed from their own homes. The program was also aired live on iHeartMedia radio stations and the iHeartRadio app. Pictured below is Tim McGraw (upper left) singing “Something Like That” while three of his band members accompany him from their homes. The event encouraged viewers and listeners to support charities Feeding America and First Responders Children’s Foundation.
Pending Business: Warning, Speed Bumps Ahead
By Steve Lapa
President
Lapcom Communications
PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — No hugging, no handshake…not now, not soon, not until we get the virus all-clear. But even then, will the sales environment ever be the same?
The impact of the coronavirus crisis on the work environment is an in-your-face lesson in the speed of change. Where and how you work, plan, think, and create, is changing right in front of you and there are no stop signs.
Monday Memo: Copy Worth Copying
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
BLOCK ISLAND, RI — Does copy you write for local retail advertisers – and your station’s promo copy – convey a benefit as clearly and succinctly as these?
“The New York Times in a New York minute”
Amazon Kindle ad in airline magazine.
Why Does Talk Radio Struggle?
By Bryan Crabtree
Talk40.com News
Publisher
ATLANTA — It doesn’t. There you have it. Talk radio is as strong today as it has ever been.
Most commercial talk stations in the United States have predominantly conservative opinion. I’ve sat through countless seminars and meetings listening to the pontification about how we’ve gotten too political and how we should try something different. Wrong!
Talk radio is about what affects our audiences’ lives. I continue to be puzzled by the fact that I hear local newscasts on stations across the country during Rush Limbaugh with the lead story about a shooting at a gas station (or similar) in the inner city. What talk listener really cares about another murder in Atlanta, Chicago or Dallas?
