Industry News

Robert Dove to Lead Alpha Media Portland as Lisa Decker Retires

Alpha Media names Robert Dove SVP/market manager for its Portland station group that includes news/talk KXL-FM, talk KUFO-AM, sports talk KXTG-AM and four music brands. This comes as current market manager Lisa Decker announces her retirement at the end of this year after seven years withim the company. Dove, who starts on January 1, comes to Alpha Media from iHeartMedia where he most recently served as Pacific Northwest Region president. Alpha Media president and CEO Bob Proffitt commented on the announcement, “I am very excited to have Robert lead us to new heights, opportunities, and successes. He knows Portland like no other broadcaster, has deep relationships and knowledge of our city’s intricacies, and will be a great addition to our team of market managers all across America.” Dove adds, “I’m very excited to join the Alpha Media team. As a native Portlander having the chance to work with some of Portland radio’s most iconic brands is very rewarding and fulfilling. I can’t wait to get started.”

Industry News

Cumulus Promotes Holly Paras to Regional VP

Cumulus Media promotes Holly Paras to regional vice president for the company in which she adds the New London, Connecticut stations to her current oversight of the Providence, Rhode Island cluster.im Cumulus operates news/talk WXLM-AM in the New London market and news/talk WPRO-AM/WEAN-FM and sports talk WPRV-AM in Providence. Cumulus Media president of operations Dave Milner states, “Holly is an extremely effective and capable leader. Having her lead New London in addition to Providence allows for us to provide enhanced solutions for customers in Rhode Island and Eastern Connecticut.”

Industry News

Cumulus Promotes Beth Coughlin to Regional VP

Cumulus Media promotes Beth Coughlin to regional vice president for Buffalo, Erie, and Syracuse markets. She currently serves as vice president/market manager for the Syracuse operations. Theim company operates news/talk WHLD-AM, Buffalo; sports talk WRIE-AM, Erie; and sports talk WSKO-AM, Syracuse as well as 11 music-formatted stations. Cumulus Media president of operations Bob Walker states, “We are pleased to expand Beth’s responsibilities over these three key markets for Cumulus. Her deep experience and effectiveness as a leader make her a natural choice for this enhanced role.”

Industry News

Air Staff Cuts at KNBR, San Francisco

According to numerous reports from Bay Area media outlets, Cumulus Media’s sports talk KNBR, San Francisco has let go a number of staffers, including former programmer Lee Hammer, morning show personality Paul McCaffrey, evening host FP Santangelo, and some in the digital department.im McCaffrey has been co-host of the “Murph and Mac” show with Brian Murphy, who appears to still be employed with the station. The dismissal of Santangelo spells the end of the evening call-in show that’s been part of the station for the past 51 years. Station program director Adam Copeland– who also co-hosts the afternoon show with Tom Tolbert – said on the program, “It’s been a really difficult day. I love this building, I love this station, I love working with you, Tom, and I’ve listened to you for years. I love a lot of people. I love the guys we let go of today. I’m looking forward to the future, but I really think we need to tip our cap and applaud the work that those guys have done.” Read the SFGate piece here.

Ratings Takeaways

November 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Three

imNovember 2023 PPM Data – Information for the November 2023 ratings period (October 12 – November 8) has been released for Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus.

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

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

DNA – DNA = Did Not Appear – Does Not Appear

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

PORTLAND

News/Talk

KXL 6.9 – 6.9, #3 – #2

KEX 1.7 – 1.6, #21 – #21

KUFO .7 – .8, #24 – #23

KPAM .1 – .1, #34 – #32

News

None

Sports Talk

KFXX 2.0 – 1.8, #18 – #20

KXTG 1.6 – 1.4, #22 – #23

KPOJ .7 – .7, #24 – #24 (Trailblazers)

KFXX Stream  .3 – .2, #28 – #28

KMTT .2 – .2, #31 – #28

Public Radio News/Talk

KOPB 5.9 – 6.4, #4 – #3

KOPB Stream  1.6 – 1.5, #22 – #22

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk

WBT-AM/FM 5.3 – 5.5, #5 – #5

News

WRFX-HD2 DNA – .1, DNA – #25

Sports Talk

WFNZ-FM 2.7 – 3.0, #13 – #14 (Hornets)

WSOC-HD3 .1 – DNA, #26 – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WFAE 4.0 – 5.4, #10 – #6

WNSC 1.2 – 1.0, #18 – #18

WFAE-HD3 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA  

Notes: Public radio news/talk WFAE’s +1.4 (4.0 – 5.4) represents Charlotte’s largest (6+) October 2023 – November 2023 increase.

The Carolina Panthers’ flagship is classic rock WRFX.

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk

WOAI 2.8 – 3.1, #13 – #14 (Spurs)

KTSA 2.6 – 2.2, #15 – #17

News

None

Sports Talk

KTFM 1.7 – 1.5, #22 – #22

KTKR .7 – .7, #27 – #27

KZDC .2 – .3, #35 – #33

Public Radio News/Talk

KSTX 1.7 – 2.4, #22 – #16

SACRAMENTO

 News/Talk

KFBK-AM 8.2 – 7.3 #1 – #2

KSTE-AM 2.7 – 3.2, #13 – #11

News

None

Sports Talk

KHTK 1.3 – 1.4, #18 – #18 (Kings)

KIFM 1.2 – 1.1, #20 – #21

KIFM Stream  .1 – .1, #30 – #29 

Public Radio News/Talk

KXJZ 1.8 – 2.4, #15 – #14

KQEI .2 – .2, #27 – #28

KQED .1 – .1, #30 – #29

KUOP DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Note: News/talk KFBK-AM’s -.9 (8.2 – 7.3) represents Sacramento’s largest (6+) October 2023 – November 2023 decrease.

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk

KDKA-AM 3.8 – 4.0, #11 – #8

KDKA-AM Stream  .5 – .4, #23 – #22

News

None

Sports Talk

KDKA-FM 8.0 – 8.0, #3 – #3

KDKA-FM Stream  .2 – .1, #28 – #25

WBGG DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WESA 4.2 – 4.0, #7 – #8

Note: The flagships of the Steelers and Penguins are rock WDVE and alternative WXDX, respectively.

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk

KSL-AM/FM 6.9 – 6.1, #2 – #4

KNRS-AM/FM 2.9 – 3.9, #15 – #9

KKAT .1 – .1, #29 – #31

News

None

Sports Talk

KALL 1.8 – 2.2, #20 – #20

KZNS-FM .8 – 1.0, #24 – #24 (Utah Jazz)

KZNS-AM .5 – .7, #26 – #25 (Utah Jazz)

KZNS-AM Stream  .1 – .1, #29 – #31 (Utah Jazz)

KZNS-FM Stream  .1 – .DNA, #29 – DNA (Utah Jazz)

KOVO .1 – DNA, #29 – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

KUER 2.2 – 2.7, #19 – #15

KUMT .1 – .4, #29 – #28

KBYU-HD2 Stream  .5 – .2, #26 – #29    

LAS VEGAS

News/Talk

KMXB-HD3 1.6 – 1.6, #22 – #23

KXNT .5 – .2, #29 – #34

KMZQ .1 – DNA, #36 – DNA

News

None

Sports Talk

KWWN 1.0 – .9, #27 – #27

KRLV .3 – .5, #32 – #30 (Raiders)

KKGK .3 – .5, #32 – #30 (Golden Knights)

KENO .5 – .2, #29 – #34

Public Radio News/Talk

KNPR 1.4 – 2.0, #23 – #18

ORLANDO

News/Talk

WTKS 3.9 – 3.9, #10 – #10

WDBO 3.5 – 3.6, #13 – #13

WFLF .9 – .8, #19 – #21

WFYY-HD3 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

None

Sports Talk

WYGM .7 – .7, #22 – #23 (Magic)

WOCL-HD2 .1 – DNA, #28 – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WMFE 2.2 – 2.7, #15 – #14

CINCINNATI

News/Talk

WLW 13.5 – 12.0, 22nd consecutive month at #1 (Bengals)

WKRC 5.4 – 5.7, #5 – #5

News

None

Sports Talk

WCKY 1.9 – 2.0, #18 – #15 (Bengals)

WSAI 1.0 – 1.2, #20 – #19

Public Radio News/Talk

WVXU 3.2 – 3.5, #11 – #11

CLEVELAND

News/Talk

WTAM 5.5 – 5.1, #10 – #9 (Cavaliers)

News

WMMS-HD2 .1 – .1, #24 – #24

Sports Talk

WKRK 5.9 – 6.0, #8 – #7  (Browns)

WKRK Stream  .9 – .9, #18 – #19 (Browns)

WARF .2 – .3, #23 – #23

Public Radio News/Talk

WKSU 5.9 – 5.0, #8 – #10

WKSU-HD4 DNA – .1, DNA – #24   

Note: Public radio news/talk WKSU’s -.9 (5.9 – 5.0) represents Cleveland’s largest (6+) October 2023 – November 2023 decrease.

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk

KMBZ-FM 5.5 – 5.5, #4 – #4

KCMO-AM 1.6 – 2.0, #17 – #16

KMBZ-AM 1.2 – 1.2, #21 – #18

KMBZ-FM Stream  .9 – .7, #22 – #21

KCMO-AM Stream  .2 – DNA, #26 – DNA

KMBZ-FM HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

None

Sports Talk

KCSP 3.1 – 3.1, #14 – #14

KCSP Stream  .4 – .2, #23 – #27

Public Radio News/Talk

KCUR 3.2 – 3.6, #13 – #12

KANU-HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Oddity: With a +.4 (1.6 – 2.0), news/talk KCMO-AM is in an eight-way tie for Kansas City’s largest (6+) October 2023 – November 2023 increase.

Note: Country WDAF is the flagship of the Chiefs.

COLUMBUS

News/Talk

WTVN 7.5 – 7.4, #4 – #3    

News

WYTS DNA – .1, DNA – #22

Sports Talk

WBNS-FM 8.6 – 10.3, #2 – #1 (Blue Jackets)

WBNS-AM .1 – .3, #21 #21 (Blue Jackets)

WBNS-FM HD2 DNA – .1, DNA – #22

WMNI .1 – DNA, #21 – #DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WOSU 3.9 – 4.3, #9 – #8

Up next: November 2023 overviews for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford. 

Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Ratings Takeaways

November 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

imNovember 2023 PPM Data – Information for the November 2023 ratings period (October 12 – November 8) has been released for: Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis.

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

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

DNA – DNA = Did Not Appear – Does Not Appear

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

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk

WMAL 4.0 – 4.6, #7 – #6

WFED DNA – .1, DNA – #30 (Capitals)

News

WTOP & WTLP 8.1 – 7.4, falls to #3, after ten straight months at #2

WDCH .7 – .6, #22 – #23

WDCH Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WJFK-FM 2.8 – 2.8, #14 – #14 (Capitals)

WJFK-FM Stream .9 – .8, #21 – #21 (Capitals)

WTEM Stream .2 – .3, #29 – #25 (Wizards)

WTEM .3 – .2, #25 – #27 (Wizards)

WSBN DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WAMU 11.9 – 12.7, 24th month in succession at #1

The flagship of the Commanders is classic rock WBIG.

Note: Public radio news/talk WAMU’s +.8 (11.9 – 12.7) represents a tie for Washington, DC’s largest October 2023 – November 2023 increase (6+). Meanwhile, news WTOP & WTLP’s -.7 (8.1 – 7.4) is the market’s highest October 2023 – November 2023 decrease (6+).

BOSTON

News/Talk

WRKO 2.3 – 2.5, #16 – #14

WXKS-AM .8 – .8, #23 – #23

News

News – Talk WBZ-AM 4.5 – 5.0, #8 – #6

Business news WRCA DNA – .1, DNA – #27

Sports Talk

WBZ-FM 10.9 – 10.5, #1 for the third straight month (New England Patriots, Celtics, Bruins)

WEEI-FM 3.8 – 3.6, #10 – #10

WEEI-AM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WBUR 5.4 – 6.4, #3 – #2

WGBH 3.8 – 3.9, #10 – #9

Note: Public radio news/talk WBUR’s +1.0 (5.4 – 6.4) represents Boston’s largest October 2023 – November 2023 increase (6+).

MIAMI

News/Talk

WIOD 2.0 – 1.4, #21 – #24

News

None

Sports Talk

WQAM 2.3 – 2.1, #19 – #20 (Heat, Florida Panthers)

WINZ .5 – .5, #29 – #29 (Dolphins)

WMEN .2 – .4, #35 – #31

WQAM Stream DNA – .1, DNA – #37 (Heat, Florida Panthers)

WSFS-HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

WAXY DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WLRN 3.9 – 3.9, #5 – #7

SEATTLE

News/Talk

KIRO-FM 4.2 – 4.7, #8 – #6 (Seahawks)

KTTH 1.5 – 1.6, #23 – #21

KVI 1.8 – 1.5, #22 – #23

KPTR .1 – .1, #32 – #32

News

KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM 2.2 – 2.6, #20 – #18

KHHO DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

KIRO-AM 4.3 – 3.1, #6 – #12 (Seahawks)

KJR-FM 3.0 – 3.1, #14 – #12 (Kraken)

KJR-AM .4 – .6, #26 – #26

Public Radio News/Talk

KUOW 7.6 – 6.8, #1 – #2

KSWS DNA – .1, DNA – #32

Note: Sports talk KIRO-AM’s -1.2 (4.3 – 3.1) represents Seattle’s largest October 2023 – November 2023 decrease (6+). 

DETROIT

News/Talk

WJR 2.3 – 2.4, #16 – #16

WFDF .4 – .4, #24 – #23

WJR Stream .1 – .2, #28 – #26

News

WWJ 4.6 – 4.6, #9 – #9 (Pistons)

WWJ Stream .7 – .4, #22 – #23 (Pistons)

WDFN .1 – .1, #28 – #31

Sports Talk

WXYT-FM 10.1 – 9.6, #1 for the third consecutive month (Lions, Pistons, Red Wings)

WXYT-FM Stream 2.4 – 1.5, #14 – #20 (Lions, Pistons, Red Wings)

WXYT-AM .2 – .2, #25 – #26

WXYT-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WUOM 1.5 – 1.6, #20 – #18

WDET 1.2 – 1.2, #21 – #21 

Note: The -.9 (2.4 – 1.5) posted by the stream of sports talk WXYT-FM represents a tie for Detroit’s largest October 2023 – November 2023 decrease (6+).

PHOENIX 

News/Talk

KFYI 4.0 – 3.3, #7 – #11

KTAR-FM 2.4 – 2.7, #16 – #14 (Arizona Cardinals, Suns)

News

None

Sports Talk

KMVP-FM 2.7 – 3.5, #14 – #7 (Suns, Arizona Coyotes)

KTAR-AM .2 – .2, #31 – #31 (Arizona Cardinals, Suns, Arizona Coyotes)

KDUS .1 – .1, #33 – #34

KGME .1 – .1, #33 – #34

KTAR-FM HD2 .1 – DNA, #33 – DNA

KTAR-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Arizona Cardinals, Suns, Arizona Coyotes)

Public Radio News/Talk

KJZZ 3.7 – 3.1, #9 – #12   

Note: News/talk KFYI’s -.7 (4.0 – 3.3) represents the largest October 2023 – November 2023 decrease (6+) for Phoenix.

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk

WCCO 4.6 – 4.0, #10 – #12 (Minnesota Timberwolves)

KTMY 2.4 – 2.4, #16 – #16

KTLK-AM 1.8 – 2.0, #19 – #17

WCCO Stream .6 – .1, #24 – #30 (Minnesota Timberwolves)

News

KQQL-HD2 .1 – .1, #32 – #30

Sports Talk

KFXN 7.8 – 8.9, #2 – #2 (Minnesota Vikings, Minnesota Wild)

KQQL-HD3 .2 – .3, #28 – #26

KSTP-AM .2 – .2, #28 – #28

Public Radio News/Talk

KNOW 6.0 – 5.7, #5 – #5

KNOW Stream .7 – .7, #23 – #23

Oddity: Five stations – including news/talk WCCO (4.6 – 4.0, -.6) are tied for Minneapolis’ largest October 2023 – November 2023 decrease (6+).

SAN DIEGO 

News/Talk

KOGO 5.4 – 4.2, #5 – #6

KLSD .3 – .3, #26 – #26

News

None

Sports Talk

KWFN 4.2 – 3.6, #6 – #11

KGB-AM 1.2 – 1.3, #20 – #20

KWFN Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

KPBS 6.3 – 6.2, #3 – #2

Note: News/talk KOGO’s -1.2 (5.4 – 4.2) represents San Diego’s largest October 2023 – November 2023 decrease (6+).

TAMPA

News/Talk

WHPT 4.7 – 4.5, #6 – #6 (Lightning)

WFLA 4.6 – 4.4, #8 – #7

News

None

Sports Talk

WDAE 2.4– 1.8, #16 – #17

Public Radio News/Talk

WUSF 1.6 – 1.6, #20 – #20

WUSF Stream .5 – .3, #25 – #30

WMNF-HD3 Stream DNA – .1, DNA – #33

Note: Rock WXTB is the flagship of the Buccaneers.

DENVER 

News/Talk

KOA 4.5 – 3.3, #6 – #13 (Broncos)

KDFD 2.1 – 2.0, #19 – #20

KHOW 1.8 – 1.8, #21 – #21

News

None

Sports Talk

KKFN 4.5 – 4.2, #6 – #10

KKSE-FM 2.0 – 2.1, #20 – #19 (Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche)

KAMP DNA – .1, DNA – #36

KEPN .1 – DNA, #36 – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

KCFR 3.9 – 4.0, #13 – #11

KUNC .8 – .4, #27 – #31

BALTIMORE

News/Talk

WBAL 4.8 – 3.7, #8 – #11 (Ravens)

WCBM 1.7 – 1.8, #17 – #17

News

WTOP & WTLP  1.1 – 1.3,  #18 – #18

WDCH  .8 – .9,  #20 – #20

WQLL DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WJZ-FM 5.1 – 5.1, #7 – #5

WJZ-AM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WYPR 4.0 – 4.5, #10 – #9

WYPR HD2 Stream DNA – .3, DNA – #36 

Note: News/talk WBAL’s -1.1 (4.8 – 3.7) represents Baltimore’s largest October 2023 – November 2023 decrease (6+).

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk

KMOX 5.0 – 4.0, #9 – #11

KFTK 1.8 – 1.9, #16 – #17

KTLK-FM .9 – 1.0, #20 – #19

KMOX Stream .4 – .2, #23 – #25

KFTK Stream .2 – .2, #27 – #25

News

KATZ-FM HD2 .3 – .2, #24 – #25

Sports Talk

WXOS 3.2 – 3.7, #14 – #12 (Blues)

Public Radio News/Talk

KWMU 4.0 – 4.9, #11 – #9

Note: While public radio news/talk KWMU’s +.9 (4.0 – 4.9) represents St. Louis’ largest October 2023 – November 2023 increase (6+), news/talk KMOX’s -1.0 (5.0 – 4.0) is the market’s highest October 2023 – November 2023 decrease (6+).

Up next: November 2023 overviews for Portland; Charlotte; San Antonio; Sacramento; Pittsburgh; Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Orlando; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Kansas City; and Columbus. 

Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry News

WEEI, Boston’s Greg Hill Signs Multiyear Extension

Morning show personality Greg Hill signs a multiyear contract extension with Audacy’s sports talkim WEEI-FM, Boston. He’ll continue to lead his program that includes cast members Jermaine Wiggins, Courtney Cox and Chris Curtis. Audacy Boston SVP and market manager Mike Thomas states, “We are thrilled to extend Greg’s contract and keep the momentum going for his award-winning morning show. We look forward to having Greg, alongside Jermaine and Courtney, continue to set the tone for our weekday programming and deliver entertaining content for our listeners for the foreseeable future.”

Industry News

Gallenbeck to Lead Cumulus Media in Reno and Eugene

Sales and management pro Tricia Gallenbeck adds responsibility for Cumulus Media’s Reno market toim her Eugene, Oregon management role and becomes regional vice president. Cumulus operates news/talk outlet KKOH-AM, Reno; news/talk KUGN-AM & sports talk KUJZ-FM in Eugene, plus six music brands. Cumulus president, operations Bob Walker says, “We are thrilled to expand Tricia’s responsibilities and welcome her back to Reno. Her experience and relationships in the market are unmatched.”

Industry News

Brandon Beam Re-Ups with “The Fan” in Columbus

Sports talk host Brandon Beam signs a new, multi-year deal to remain with Tegna’s WBNS-FM, Columbus “97.1 The Fan.” Beam currently co-hosts “Morning Juice” with Bobby Carpenter weekdaysim from 6:00 am to 9:00 am. In addition to “Morning Juice,” Beam hosts the Ohio State Buckeyes football network post-game show in partnership with “97.1 The Fan” and Learfield/Ohio State Sports Properties and co-hosts the “Bone and Beam United” podcast. Station program director Matt Fishman says, “Beamer is a smart, versatile personality who has excelled in several roles. We are thrilled that he has decided to stay at ‘The Fan.’” Station manager Cody Welling adds, “Brandon is an emerging talent that has worked extremely hard on his development. I enjoy his energy, his passion for the station, and his love for Columbus, our teams, and our fans.”

Industry News

Audacy’s 2023 Q3 Net Revenue Down 5.6%

Reporting its operating results for Q3 of 2023, Audacy says net revenue for the period was $299.2 million, down 5.6% from the same period in 2022. The company reports a net loss of $234 million, up from the net loss of $141 million it reported in Q3 of 2022. The company reveals that local spot revenue was down 3%, national spot revenue declined 15% and network advertising revenue was down 5%. Digital revenue was $64.8 million, up 3% compared to the third quarter of 2022. Audacy also reports broadcast radio revenue by format and notes that news/talk format revenue was $43.35 million, a decline of 10.8% year-over-year. Sports talk revenue was basically flat at $72 million. Music format revenue wasim $145.7 million, down 7.1% year-over-year. Audacy president and CEO David J. Field states, “Audacy’s third quarter net revenues declined 5.6%, in-line with our quarterly guidance as ad market conditions have remained challenging, particularly on national business. Cash operating expenses were down 2%. We gained revenue share in the quarter, most significantly in radio in which we have achieved accelerating share growth since the start of the year. We also delivered solid gains in radio ratings share and digital audience metrics while making important progress on our tech roadmap and meaningful expense savings to improve our current and future business model. Fourth quarter is currently pacing down 9% on an as reported basis and down 4% on a same-station, ex-political basis. We expect Q4 total revenues to decline by high single digits and costs to decline by high single digits. As noted in our recent public filings, we remain in constructive conversations with our lenders to recapitalize the company’s balance sheet to establish a strong financial footing and position the company to capitalize effectively on our growth opportunities. Notwithstanding current challenges, Audacy has established a strong position as a scaled, leading multi-platform audio content and entertainment company distinguished by our exclusive premium content and top positions across the country’s largest markets. We salute our team for their strong work delivering solid growth against our key performance metrics and serving our listeners and customers with excellence.”

Industry News

Tony Bruno Launching Sports Talk Network

Philadelphia sports site Crossing Broad shares a press release from sports talk media personality Tony Bruno that announces the debut of his new sports talk venture, the Tony Bruno Sports Network. The network will feature “The Tony Bruno Show” in afternoon drive (3:00 pm to 6:00 pm ET), along with “The Pete Sheppard Show” (7:00 am to 10:00 am ET), “Defo & Lubie” (10:00 am to 12:00 noon ET), andimMartinez & Company” (6:00 pm to 8:00 pm ET), with the early afternoon daypart to be announced. The press release states, TBSN will debut October 30th  with LIVE programming every weekday with sports talk radio from 7am to 8pm to start. Additional time slots and weekend programming will be added over the following months. TBSN is available to listeners nationwide online via LIVE365.com and on the ‘Tony Bruno Sports Network’ app for Android and iPhone.” Bruno adds, “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 want to hear my daily fun approach to sports and current affairs, which has been my forté for over five decades in broadcasting; this time, I’m bringing friends! I hear over and over again that fans are tired of X’s & O’s sports radio. I plan to bring back exciting, sports talk radio again, with a Florida flair. What better place to launch a new nationwide sports network than in Florida, a true melting pot of fans from all over the nation.”

Ratings Takeaways

September 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

imSeptember 2023 PPM Data – Information for the September 2023 survey period has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford.

Nielsen Audio’s September 2023 sweep covered August 17 – September 13.

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

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

All comparisons noted are August 2023 – September 2023 (6+).

Note: The NFL season began September 7 – applicable flagships are bolded. 

AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media Group’s KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 3.3 – 3.4, +.1, #12 to #10

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas’ KUT 6.1 – 5.3, -.8, repeats in third-place

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media Group adult hits KBPA, ninth month in succession, 9.7 – 9.6, -.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: triple A KUTX (+.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk KUT (-.8) 

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 9.2 – 9.4, +.2, repeats in the runner-up slot

News: Capitol Broadcasting-owned WRAL-HD3 “WRAL News+” .1 – .3, +.2, #16 to #15

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” 2.3 – 3.1, +.8, ninth to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 9.5 – 9.1, -.4, first to third

Number One 6+: Urban One urban AC WFXC, first month, 8.5 – 10.1, +1.6

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WRAL (+1.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WQOK (-2.2)**

*Represents the largest August 2023 – September 2023 decrease (6+) of any station in all 48 PPM-markets

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Urban One’s WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 6.0 – 6.1, +.1, repeats in fourth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” (Colts) 2.8 – 3.5, +.7, #15 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting’s WFYI 6.3 – 6.4, +.1, third straight month in third-place

Number One 6+: Urban One adult contemporary WYXB, first month, 6.9 – 8.2, +1.3

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WYXB (+1.3)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: hot AC WNTR (-1.0)

MILWAUKEE 

News/Talk: Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Brewers) 8.7 – 9.8, +1.1, third to first 

iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 10.7 – 9.6, -1.1, first to second

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” (Green Bay Packers) 1.4 – 2.4, +1.0, #17 to #13

Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” steady at 1.0, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 2.5 – 2.4, -.1, #14 to #13

Wisconsin Educational Communications Board’s WHAD 1.7 – 2.1, +.4, fifth straight month at #16

Number One 6+: news/talk WTMJ, first month, 8.7 – 9.8, +1.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: news/talk WTMJ (+1.1)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: news/talk WISN (-1.1)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 5.8 – 6.1, +.3, fifth to fourth

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” .9 – 1.1, +.2, #21 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” (Tennessee Titans) 4.8 – 7.2, +2.4, eighth to third    

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” 1.6 – 1.4, -.2, repeats at #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 4.2 – 5.5, +1.3, #11 to #6

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult contemporary WJXA, eighth month in succession, 10.3 – 9.3, -1.0

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk WGFX (+2.4)**

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: country WSM-FM (-2.0)

**Represents a tie for the largest August 2023 – September 2023 increase (6+) of any station in all 48 PPM-markets

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 6.8 – 6.1, -.7, fifth to sixth

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .4 – .3, -.1, third straight month at #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” 2.6 – 3.3, +.7, anchored in eighth-place for the twelfth consecutive month

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 2.6 – 2.3, -.3, eighth to tenth

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 2.0 – 1.9, -.1, #11 to #12

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN 1.4 – 1.5, +.1, fifth straight month at #14

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WCAI .1, #19 (did not appear in August 2023)

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI, third month in a row, 9.7 – 10.9, +1.2

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: country WCTK (+1.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: news/talk WPRO-AM (-.7)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” 3.1 – 3.5, +.4, fifth consecutive month at #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group-owned WVSP “Sports Radio 94.1 ESPN” 2.6 – 2.7, +.1, #14 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, eighth straight month, 11.3 – 10.2, -1.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: rhythmic CHR WNVZ (+.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: country WUSH (-1.2)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 6.5 – 8.2, +1.7, fifth to third

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: WJCT, Inc.’s WJCT 3.2 – 2.6, -.6, repeats at #12

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WJGL, first month, 9.1 – 10.6, +1.5

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: news/talk WOKV-FM (+1.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: rock WWJK (-1.1)

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” 1.8 – 1.9, +.1, repeats in tenth-place

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 1.6 -1.8, +.2, repeats at #12

WZZR cluster-mate WJNO “News Radio 1290” 1.3 – 1.1, -.2, third straight month at #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZT “Sports Radio 1230 The Gambler” steady at .2, #20 to #19

Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” .4 – .2, -.2, #18 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 2.3 – 2.6, +.3, ninth to eighth

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting classic hits-oldies WEAT, third month in a row, 9.2 – 7.9, -1.3

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: hot AC WRMF (+1.3)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WEAT (-1.3)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 4.7 – 4.5, -.2, locked in eighth-place for the eleventh straight month

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 2.8 – 3.5, +.7, repeats in ninth-place

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC flat at 1.4, sixth straight month at #13

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WQMG, first month, 11.2 – 13.6, +2.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: urban AC WQMG (+2.4)**

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: country WPAW (-1.2)

**Represents a tie for the largest August 2023 – September 2023 increase (6+) of any station in all 48 PPM-markets

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.0 – 2.1, +.1, repeats in ninth-place

Starnes Media Group-owned KWAM “News Talk Memphis The Mighty 990” .2 – .4, +.2, #15 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” 2.8 – 2.4, -.4, seventh to eighth

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.8 – 1.7, -.1, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia urban AC KJMS, seventh straight month, 12.9 – 11.8, -1.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WHRK and CHR WEGR (+1.5)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WRVR (-1.7)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” 4.8 – 5.2, +.4, seventh to sixth

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” 1.5 – 2.3, +.8, #14 to #12

WTIC-AM’s internet stream flat at .8, third straight month at #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” 1.3 – 1.7, +.4, repeats at #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR 4.0 – 3.7, -.3, repeats in ninth-place

New England Public Media’s WFCR flat at .6, fourth straight month at #18

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 44th month in a row, 10.1 – 10.5, +.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: news/talk WDRC-AM (+.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: country WWYZ (-1.1)

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

Ratings Takeaways

September 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Three

imSeptember 2023 PPM Data – Information for the September 2023 ratings period has been released for Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus.

Nielsen Audio’s September 2023 sweep covered August 17 – September 13.

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

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

All comparisons noted are August 2023 – September 2023 (6+).

Note: The NFL season began September 7 – flagships are bolded, where applicable.

PORTLAND

News/Talk: Alpha Media’s KXL “FM 101 News” flat at 6.7, repeats in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB 6.1 – 6.3, +.2, repeats in fourth-place

KOPB’s internet stream 1.7 – 20, +.3, #20 to #18

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLTH, first month, 8.7 – 8.5, -.2

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: triple A KINK and hot AC KRSK (+.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KKCW (-2.0)*

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

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk: Urban One-owned WBT-AM & WBT-FM “Charlotte’s News Talk” 6.4 – 5.2, -1.2, third to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One’s WFNZ-FM “Sports Radio 92.7” 1.8 – 2.4, +.6, #16 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: University Radio Foundation’s WFAE 4.6 – 5.2, +.6, sixth to fifth

South Carolina Educational Television Commission-owned WNSC .5 – 1.0, +.5, #20 to #18

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group country WSOC, first month, 7.2 – 7.4, +.2

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk WFNZ and public radio news/talk WFAE (+.6)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: news/talk WBT-AM & WBT-FM (-1.2) 

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk:  iHeartMedia’s WOAI “News Radio 1200” 2.4 – 2.6, +.2, #17 to #15

Alpha Media-owned KTSA “Stay Connected” 2.6 – 2.2, -.4, #15 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM, ninth consecutive month, 8.6 – 7.1, -1.5

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: classic rock KTKX (+.6)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KONO-FM (-1.5)

SACRAMENTO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM “News 1530 AM & 93.1 FM” 9.7 – 10.1, +.4, #1

KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM cluster-mate KSTE-AM “Talk 650” 3.7 – 3.3, -.4, #10 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KHTK “Sacramento Sports 1140” .8 – 1.1, +.3, #24 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Capital Public Radio-owned KXJZ 2.3 – 1.9, -.4, #14 to #15

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia news/talk KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM, third month in a row, 9.7 – 10.1, +.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: urban-rhythmic oldies KHYL (+1.3)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KBEB (-1.0)

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk: Audacy’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020 AM” 3.8 – 4.0, +.2, #10 (third straight month)

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan All Sports All The Time” (Pirates) 6.8 – 7.9, +1.1, fourth to third

Public Radio News/Talk: Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting’s WESA 4.6 – 4.1, -.5, repeats in eighth-place

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW, tenth month in a row, 11.4 – 11.2, -.2

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk KDKA-FM (+1.1)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk WESA and classical WQED (-.5)

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” 4.9 – 5.2, +.3, repeats in fifth-place

iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM “Talk Radio” 3.4 – 4.0, +.6, #11 to #9

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Utah’s KUER 2.6 – 2.5, -.1, repeats at #17

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KSFI, eleventh straight month, 10.8 – 10.3, -.5

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: rock KBER (+1.2)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: hot AC KJMY (-1.0) 

LAS VEGAS

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KMXB-HD3 “101.5 K-Dawn The Talk Of Las Vegas” 1.1 – 1.9, +.8, #26 to #18

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE, third month in succession, 9.3 – 9.5, +.2

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: Spanish adult hits KWID and classic rock KXPT (+1.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: CHR KLUC (-1.2)

ORLANDO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKS “Real Radio 104.1” 4.4 – 4.6, +.2, seventh to eighth

Cox Media Group-owned WDBO “Orlando’s News Talk” steady at 3.4, #13 to #12

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WYGM “96.9 The Game” 1.4 – 1.1, -.3, #18 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Community Connections-owned WMFE 2.9 – 2.4, -.5, #14 to #15

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMGF, fourth consecutive month, 9.1 – 10.1, +1.0

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: Spanish tropical WRUM (+1.4)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: alternative WQMP (-1.0)

CINCINNATI

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WLW “700 Cincinnati’s News Radio” (Reds, Bengals) 14.0 – 13.9, -.1, #1

WLW’s cluster-mate WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” 4.4 – 4.6, +.2, repeats in sixth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WCKY “ESPN 1530” (Bengals) 1.2 – 1.6, +.4, #20 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Cincinnati Public Radio’s WVXU 4.0 – 3.6, -.4, eighth to ninth

Number One 6+: news/talk WLW, 20th consecutive month, 14.0 – 13.9, -.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: rock WEBN (+1.2)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: rhythmic hot AC WREW (-.9)

CLEVELAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTAM “News Radio 1100” (Guardians) 5.5 – 6.1, +.6, eighth to seventh

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” (Browns) 4.0 – 5.1, +1.1, #11 to #10

WKRK’s internet stream .5 – .8, +.3, #18 to #17

iHeartMedia-owned WARF “Fox Sports 1350 AM The Gambler” .2 – .3, +.1, repeats at #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Kent State University’s WKSU 5.2 – 4.9, -.3, #9 to #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI, eleventh month in a row, 10.5 – 11.8, +1.3

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WMJI +1.3)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: rock WMMS (-1.1)

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KMBZ-FM “98.1 FM News, Traffic, Weather” flat at 5.1, third to fourth

KMBZ-FM cluster-mate KMBZ-AM “Talk 980 AM” 1.3 – 1.2, -.1, repeats at #19

Cumulus Media’s KCMO-AM “Talk Radio 710 AM” unchanged at 1.0, #22 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KCSP “Sports Radio 610 Our Teams, Our Town” (Royals) 2.7 – 3.1, +.4, #13 (third successive month)

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KCUR 3.5 – 3.2, -.3, #10 to #12

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies KCMO-FM, second straight month, 10.6 – 9.8, -.8

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian KJNW (+.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: country KBEQ (-1.1)

COLUMBUS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WTVN “News Radio 610” 7.4 – 7.3, -.1, second to fourth    

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Tegna-owned WBNS-FM “97.1 FM The Fan” 5.6 – 7.9, +2.3, fifth to second

Public Radio News/Talk: Ohio State University’s WOSU 4.4 – 4.5, +.1, ninth to eighth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia country WCOL, eleventh straight month, 10.4 – 9.8, -.6

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk WBNS-FM (+2.3)**

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WSNY (-.9)

**Represents the largest August 2023 – September 2023 increase (6+) of any station from the 36 PPM-markets analyzed thus far

Up next: September 2023 overviews for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford.

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

Ratings Takeaways

September 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

imSeptember 2023 PPM Data – Information for the September 2023 sweep has been released for Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis.

Nielsen Audio’s September 2023 sweep covered August 17 – September 13.

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

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

All comparisons noted are August 2023 – September 2023 (6+).

Note: The NFL season began September 7 – flagships are bolded, where applicable.

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 3.5 – 3.9, +.4, repeats in seventh-place

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 9.3 – 8.7, -.6, ensconced in the runner-up slot for the ninth straight month

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” (Nationals) steady at 2.6, #16 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU 11.6 – 12.0, +.4, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, 22nd month in succession, 11.6 – 12.0, +.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian WGTS (+1.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WKYS (-.7)

BOSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” 3.5 – 2.8, -.7, #12 to #15

News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” 4.2 – 3.8, -.4, eighth to tenth

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (New England Patriots) 5.6 – 7.8, +2.2, third to first

Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” (Red Sox) 3.7 – 4.2, +.5, #11 to #9

Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 5.6 – 5.4, -.2, repeats in third-place

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.9 – 3.6, -.3, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group sports talk WBZ-FM, first month, 5.6 – 7.8, +2.2*

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk WBZ-FM (+2.2)*

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies WROR (-1.5)

*Represents a tie for the largest August 2023 – September 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 – and the previous 12 – PPM-markets

MIAMI

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board-owned WLRN 3.9 – 3.8, -.1, repeats in eighth-place

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group urban AC WHQT, seventh straight month, 7.9 – 8.0, +.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: Spanish contemporary WAMR (+1.9)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: urban contemporary WMIB (-.8)

SEATTLE

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” (Seahawks) steady at 4.7, seventh to sixth

News: Lotus Communications-owned KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM “Northwest News Radio” 2.0 – 2.2, +.2, #19 to #20

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” (Mariners, Seahawks) 4.7 – 6.0, +1.3, seventh to third

iHeartMedia’s KJR-FM “93.3 FM Seattle’s Sports Leader” 2.4 – 2.3, -.1, #17 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio-owned KUOW 6.8 – 5.9, -.9, second to fourth

Number One 6+: Audacy country KKWF, fourth straight month, 7.9 – 6.8, -1.1

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: rhythmic hot AC KHTP (+1.8)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KSWD (-1.2) 

DETROIT

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 1.9 – 1.8, -.1, #16 to #17

News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” flat at 4.0, repeats at #11

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Tigers, Lions) 7.2 – 8.6, +1.4, second to first 

WXYT-FM’s internet stream 1.3 – 2.0, +.7, #19 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 1.6 – 1.8, +.2, continues at #17

Wayne State University’s WDET 1.0 – 1.1, +.1, #21 to #20

Number One 6+: sports talk WXYT-FM, first month, 7.2 – 8.6, +1.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk WXYT-FM (+1.4)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: CHR WKQI (-.8)

PHOENIX 

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” 3.9 – 4.1, +.2, tenth to fifth

Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” (Arizona Cardinals) 3.0 – 2.9, -.1, #15 for the third straight month

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College-owned KJZZ 4.1 – 3.9, -.2, seventh to sixth

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KESZ, first month, 6.1 – 7.5, +1.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KESZ (+1.4)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KAZG (-1.7)

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” (Minnesota Twins) 3.5 – 3.3, -.2, #14 to #12

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KTMY “My Talk 107.1” 2.2 – 2.3, +.1, #16 for the fourth straight month

iHeartMedia’s KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” 1.3 – 1.4, +.1, #19 for the third month in succession

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” (Minnesota Vikings) 4.8 – 8.8, +2.0, ninth to fourth

Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW flat at 6.2, fourth to fifth

Number One 6+: Northwestern Media contemporary Christian KTIS-FM, sixth consecutive month, 10.7 – 10.1, -.6

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: sports talk KFXN (+2.0)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: hot AC KTCZ and country KMNB (-.7)

SAN DIEGO 

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” steady at 4.7, seventh to fifth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” (Padres), 4.9 – 4.7, -.2, sixth to fifth

Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 5.8 – 6.2, +.4, repeats in third-place

Number One 6+: Audacy classic hits-oldies KXSN, first month, 6.5 – 6.8, +.3

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: Spanish contemporary XRST (+1.0)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult hits KFBG (-2.1)**

**Represents a tie for the largest August 2023 – September 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 – and the previous 12 – PPM-markets 

TAMPA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” 5.2 – 5.3, +.1, repeats in fifth-place

iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” 4.3 – 4.0, -.3, #8 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” (Rays) 1.8 – 2.0, +.2 #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 2.2 – 2.3, +.1, #19 to #17

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, 26th month in a row, 7.8 – 8.0, +.2

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: country WQYK (+1.7)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: country WFUS (-1.5)

DENVER 

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOA “News Radio 850” (Colorado Rockies, Broncos) 2.7 – 3.7, +1.0, #16 to #13

KOA cluster-mate KDFD “Freedom 93.7” 2.0 – 1.7, -.3, #20 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” 3.8 – 4.6, +.8, #11 to #7

Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 4.0 – 4.2, +.2, tenth to ninth

Number One 6+: Bonneville country KYGO, second consecutive month, 6.6 – 6.2, -.4

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KOSI (+1.0)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: hot AC KIMN and sports talk KKSE (-.7)

BALTIMORE

News/Talk: Hearst Television’s WBAL “News Radio 1090 AM & 101.5 FM” (Orioles, Ravens) 3.2 – 4.1, +.9, #12 to #8

WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” 1.5 – 1.8, +.3, repeats at #18

News: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” .9 – 1.0, +.1, #21 to #19

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” 4.4 – 4.0, -.4, eighth to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 4.4 – 4.5, +.1, eighth to seventh

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WLIF, first month, 6.4 – 8.6, +2.2

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WLIF (+2.2)*

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: urban AC WHUR (-.8)

*Represents a tie for the largest August 2023 – September 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 – and the previous 12 – PPM-markets

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” (Cardinals) 5.9 – 5.8, -.1, sixth to eighth

KMOX cluster-mate KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 1.8 – 1.9, +.1, repeats at #16

iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-FM “104.9 The Patriot” .9 – 1.0, +.1, #18 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” 2.4 – 2.3, -.1, repeats at #15

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 3.6 – 3.5, -.1, #12 to #13

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KLOU, first month, 9.0 – 8.7, -.3

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Increase: urban AC WFUN (+1.2)

Largest 6+ August 2023 – September 2023 Decrease: adult hits WARH (-2.1)**

**Represents a tie for the largest August 2023 – September 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 – and the previous 12 – PPM-markets

Up next: September 2023 overviews for Portland; Charlotte; San Antonio; Sacramento; Pittsburgh; Salt Lake City; Las Vegas; Orlando; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Kansas City; and Columbus.

Email Mike Kinosian at Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry News

Rob Brown Moves to AM Drive at “The Fan Upstate” in Greenville

Audacy’s sports talk outlet “The Fan Upstate” (WORD-AM/WFBC-HD3/W249DL/W246CV), Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina announces that “The Rob Brown Show” moves from middays to morning drive with CBS Sports Radio’s “Reiter Than You” with Bill Reiter taking over the 10:00 am to 2:00 pmim slot. Audacy Greenville-Spartanburg SVP and market manager Steve Sinicropi says, “‘The Rob Brown Show’ has been a winner in middays for ‘The Fan Upstate’ and will be even better in morning drive. Rob and Lonzo deliver an engaging, fast-paced sports talk show and are fresh off winning the best sports show in South Carolina for the second time. We’re equally as excited to debut Bill Reiter and his highly popular program to middays to carry listeners through their day. Upstate sports fans will love this new lineup and the quality sports radio content it will deliver.” This year, “The Rob Brown Show” won “Best Sports Show” at the annual State Television and Radio (STAR) Awards presented by the South Carolina Broadcasters Association.

Industry News

Amazon to Drop Sports Talk Programming

Amazon is dropping its 11-month-old sports talk programming on the Prime Video platform. Joe Lucia writes about the news (originally reported by The Athletic’s Richard Deitsch) at Awful Announcing. The programming streams from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. Amazon was mum about the reason for shutting it down, but as Lucia notes in his piece, “there’s so much competition in the sports talk radio space.” Read his story here.

Industry News

Sullivan Promoted to SVP of Sales for iHeartMedia Phoenix Region

iHeartMedia announces that sales pro Nancie Sullivan is promoted from VP of sales to SVP of salesim for the Phoenix Region that includes news/talk KFYI-AM and sports talk KGME, plus six music brands. iHeartMedia Phoenix region president Linda Little says, “I am thrilled to have Nancie step into this role and lead our Phoenix sales team to the next level. I know Nancie will bring her passion, creativity and leadership talents to help us further grow our business and partnerships.”

Industry News

Damon Amendolara to Host Mornings on SiriusXM’s Mad Dog Channel

SiriusXM brings sports talk personality Damon Amendolara, a.k.a. D.A., to the Mad Dog Sports Radio channel to host the morning drive program “The D.A. Show with Babchik,” alongside longtime SiriusXMim personality Mike Babchik. Amendolara has been hosting a program on CBS Sports Radio since 2017. SiriusXM VP of sports programming Eric Spitz states, “D.A. is one of the brightest stars in sports radio today. He delivers a terrific blend of informative and thoughtful sports talk with creative, entertaining humor, which is what our listeners are looking for as they start their day. He and Babs will make a dynamic team as they lead off our programming each morning.”

Industry News

Cumulus Media and Former KTCK-AM/FM, Dallas Hosts Settle

The legal battle between Cumulus Media and former KTCK-AM/FM, Dallas midday sports talk hosts Dan McDowell and Jake Kemp is over as United States District Judge Karen Gren Scholer issues an order stating that the parties have resolved the matter and the parties are to file dismissal documents byim Friday (9/29). Cumulus objected to the two hosts publishing their “The Dumb Zone” podcast arguing that it violates the terms of their contracts, specifically the non-compete clause. McDowell and Kemp left “The Ticket” in July after being unable to come to terms on a renewal due to the two sides’ disagreement over digital initiatives. McDowell and Kemp had argued that Cumulus’ business is “the operation of terrestrial radio stations – old media – and it was only in that business that Plaintiff employed the Defendants.” Ultimately the two sides were ordered into mediation on the matter. The terms of the settlement have not been made public.

Industry News

Audacy Houston Raises $100k-plus for Barbara Bush Literacy Foundation

Audacy’s Houston radio stations helped raise more than $100,000 for the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation during the 4th annual Giving Week campaign. Audacy’s five stations – including sports talk KILT-AM Sports Radio 610 – launched the campaign in support of one of the Foundation’sim signature programs, My Home Library, which raises funds to provide home libraries to economically disadvantaged children in Houston. Audacy Houston SVP and market manager Sarah Frazier says, “Through the power of community and compassion, we’re delighted to help provide a brighter future for underserved children. We are proud to support the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation in their critical mission once again.”