Industry News

NPR Looks Back at Political Talk Pioneer Joe Pyne

The NPR program “All Things Considered” produced a piece on political talk media pioneer Joe Pyneimg (pictured here) that aired on the program yesterday (3/13). TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison was among those interviewed for the eight-minute segment called Radio Diaries. Pyne began his career as a disc jockey but after injecting political commentary into his show was encouraged to do more talking and that eventually evolved into the Joe Pyne radio show that the NBC Radio Network put into syndication in 1966. Pyne enjoyed bringing controversial guests – including “hippies, women’s libbers, Scientologists, swingers, a snake charmer, members of the Ku Klux Klan and the John Birch Society.” He then segued to television in Los Angeles. Harrison is quoted in the segment saying, “There were a lot of people that didn’t like Pyne, but they watched him anyway because they thought it was — amusing? Entertaining? Sensational? Different? You know, not boring.” Photo: Everett Collection Read more and listen to the segment here.

Industry News

Rumble Launches Talk Livestreaming Lineup

Video-sharing platform and could services provider Rumble unveils Rumble Live, a linear livestreaming lineup of content that features well-known talk media personalities including Vince Coglianese, Steven Crowder, Russell Brand, and more. Rumble say it is reimagining the video platform experience byimg offering a format in which shows use the Rumble Raiding technology to follow one another and carry audiences seamlessly into the next show. Rumble chairman and CEO Chris Pavlovski says, “This is more proof that the content creator community at Rumble is the best place to be, because this new daily lineup will help everyone and be great programming for viewers. Creators in the lineup will build off each other’s audiences, and everyone on the platform will benefit by increased traffic across the board. Unlike the broadcast day on a television network, Rumble adheres to the principles of free speech and these are shows that people actually want to watch.”

Industry News

Deadline for Radio HoF Nominations Approaching

The Radio Hall of Fame nominating committee is reminding the public that the deadline for submissionsimg for the class of 2025 is Monday, March 31 at 11:59 pm PT. You can visit www.radiohalloffame.com to make a submission. Twenty-four broadcasters will be selected as nominees to be voted upon by industry personnel later this year. The 2025 Radio Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held in Chicago on Thursday, October 30, 2025.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories This Past Week (March 10-14, 2025)

Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (3/10-14) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:

Stories/Topics

1. GOP Budget/Government Shutdown Threat
2. Trump’s Trade War/Financial Markets Plunge
3. Musk-DOGE Activities
4. Department of Education Elimination
5. Russia-Ukraine War
6. EPA Deregulation
7. Greenland Elections
8. Israel-Hamas War
9. U.S.-Canada Relations
10.Big Tech / Misinformation / Censorship

People

1. Donald Trump
2. Elon Musk
3. Vladimir Putin/Volodymyr Zelenskyy
4. Benjamin Netanyahu
5. Howard Lutnick/Doug Ford
6. Chuck Schumer
7. JD Vance
8. Linda McMahon
9. Mike Johnson
10.Jens-Frederik Nielsen

To see the full TALKERS Stories, Topics, and People Charts, please click HERE.

Industry News

Cumulus Names Gilbert Baez Host of WFNC’s “Good Morning Fayetteville”

Cumulus Media names veteran broadcast journalist Gilbert Baez host of news/talk WFNC, Fayetteville, North Carolina’s “Good Morning Fayetteville,” effective March 17. Baez has been a fixture on WRAL-TV, in Raleigh but served as WFNC’s morning news anchor from 2000 through 2001. Cumulus Fayetteville VPimg and market manager Tish Boden says, “Team Cumulus Fayetteville is excited to have Gilbert Baez join our team as the new host for ‘Good Morning Fayetteville’ on WFNC News Talk. When you say the name Gilbert Baez in the market it is synonymous with news. I look forward to Gilbert’s success on Good Morning Fayetteville.” WFNC program director Kelvin Culbreth adds, “Gilbert Baez brings a deep desire to report the news and a true sense of devotion to Fayetteville, Fort Bragg, and Cumberland County. He’ll bring his wealth of knowledge about our area and his vast cache of connections. We have heard, ‘Everyone knows Gilbert and Gilbert knows everyone.’ He is the perfect host to carry GMF into the future.”

Industry Views

Sabo Sez: The Actual Future of Radio

By Walter Sabo
a.k.a. Walter M. Sterling
Host, “Sterling Every Damn Night,”
WPHT, Philadelphia
Host, Sterling On Sunday, TM

imgThank you, TALKERS for having me on panels at the TALKERS Generations 2025 IBSNYC conference this past Saturday (3/8). Moderator and Philadelphia talk show god Dom Giordano asked us the inevitable: “What is the future of radio?”

You’ve likely had the experience of saying something funny or profound and been surprised.  “Where did that come from!??”

What’s the future of radio? I replied, “The next sentence out of your mouth. Radio will have a future if the next thing you say compels a listener to hear your next sentence.”

Where did that come from? The future is up to us. For over 100 years radio has engaged our listener to want to hear the next sentence. No wires, cable, laptop, computer. Distribution? No problem. Subscriptions? No. Technical challenges? No. Radio just works.

Your listener will want radio to just-work as long as the next sentence is our best. Ever.

Walter Sabo has been a C Suite action partner for companies such as SiriusXM, Hearst, Press Broadcasting, Gannett, RKO General and many other leading media outlets. His company HITVIEWS, in 2007, was the first to identify and monetize video influencers. His nightly show “Walter Sterling Every Damn Night” is heard on WPHT, Philadelphia. His syndicated show, “Sterling On Sunday,” from Talk Media Network, airs 10:00 pm-1:00 am ET, and is now in its 10th year of success. He can be reached by email at sabowalter@gmail.com

Industry News

WABC’s Catsimatidis Promotes AM in Cars in NYPost Ad

Red Apple Media and WABC owner John Catsimatidis is taking out full-color ads in the New York Post in which he asks consumers not to buy a new car that doesn’t include AM radio. Part of the ad’s text reads asimg follows: For the past 100 years, AM radio has been free for U.S. consumers. “Recently, General Motors and other car manufacturers have spent over $7 million trying to eliminate AM radio. Do not buy a car without AM radio. GM is attempting to influence Congress, making themselves an adversary to consumers. We will publish a list of all House and Senate members who have received money from these lobbyists. Keep AM radio free.”

Industry News

FCC Seeks Public Comments on Deregulation

In a Public Notice titled, “Delete, Delete, Delete,” The Federal Communications Commission says it is “taking action to promote the policies outlined by President Trump…” and are “seeking public input on identifying FCC rules for the purpose of alleviating unnecessary regulatory burdens. We seek comment on deregulatory initiatives that would facilitate and encourage American firms’ investment in modernizing theirimg networks, developing infrastructure, and offering innovative and advanced capabilities.” The Notice goes on to say, “The Communications Act directs the FCC to regularly review its rules to identify and eliminate those that are unnecessary in light of current circumstances, recognizing that in addition to imposing unnecessary burdens, unnecessary rules may stand in the way of deployment, expansion, competition, and technological innovation in communications that the Commission is directed to advance. Government-wide administrative law requires review of rules to ensure that unnecessary—or affirmatively detrimental—rules are not retained.” The public comment period runs through April 15 and the Commission encourages “commenters to consider certain policy factors including cost-benefit considerations, marketplace and technological changes, barrier to entry, and more, as well as statutory and regulatory retrospective review standards.” Read the complete Public Notice here.

Industry News

WWO: AM/FM Reach Dominates Ad-Supported Digital Audio

This week’s Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group blog addresses the effectiveness of advertising on AM/FM radio versus ad-supported digital audio using data from Edison Research’s ongoing Share of Ear study. The gist of the post is that equating AM/FM radio reach with ad-supported digital audioimg is a mistake. Some of the findings include: 1) In a typical day, ad-supported digital audio reaches less than a third of America while AM/FM radio reaches two-thirds of America. Combined, ad-supported digital audio and AM/FM radio reach 74% of the U.S. daily; 2) Between ad-supported Spotify and AM/FM radio, most people only listen to AM/FM radio; 3) Between ad-supported Pandora and AM/FM radio, most people only listen to AM/FM radio; 4) The U.S. ad-supported audio clock: Podcasts and AM/FM radio represent nearly 90% of tuning minutes; 5) With a towering in-car share of 86%, AM/FM radio is the primary way to reach consumers on the path to purchase; The proportion of AM/FM radio in-car listening has surged, returning to pre-pandemic norms. See the full blog post here.

Industry News

KNBR Re-Ups Host Brian Murphy

Cumulus Media’s San Francisco sports talk outlet KNBR is reportedly extending morning sports talk host Brian Murphy’s deal for another four years. SFGate reports that KNBR program director Mike Hohlerimg announced the news on-air on Tuesday. Murphy is one half of the “Murph and Markus” show. Murphy tells SFGate, “I’ve just really enjoyed my time talking to the Bay Area every morning and talking to my partners – whether it was Paulie Mac or my original partner Tim Liotta or my current partner Markus Boucher. Always enjoyed it, enjoyed the banter with our producers and board ops. I never wanted to leave ever, so it was just going to come down to could we come to an agreement and fortunately we did.” See the SFGate story here.

Industry News

Edison’s Infinite Dial Webinar Scheduled for March 20

Edison Research will present a webinar on March 20 at 2:00 pm ET to reveals its latest Infinite Dial data. The company says it is presenting the report with support from Audacy, Cumulus Media, and SiriusXMimg Media. “The Infinite Dial 2025 will be unveiled by Edison Research vice president Megan Lazovick alongside special guest James Cridland, editor of Podnews. With 35 years in the audio business, Cridland will offer unique analysis into the numbers and global context. Together, they will provide attendees expert insights on the latest digital audio consumption trends and their implications for the industry.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (3/12)

The most-discussed stories yesterday (3/12) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Budget Battle/Government Shutdown Threat
2. Trump’s Trade War/Financial Markets Activity
3. DOGE/Elon Musk’s Influence
4. Russia-Ukraine War
5. EPA Deregulation

Industry News

Saga Communications 2024 Q4 Net Revenue Falls 1.3%

Saga Communications is reporting its operating results for the fourth quarter of 2024 and for the full year of 2024. The company says net revenue for Q4 was $28.8 million, a decline of 1.3% compared to the same period in 2023. Station operating expense increased 4.1% for the quarter to $24.3 million comparedimg to the same period last year. Saga reports net income of $1.3 million for the quarter compared to net income of $2.5 million for the fourth quarter last year. For the full year of 2024, net revenue was $110.3 million, a decrease of 2.2% from the full year 2023. Net income was $3.5 million for the full year of 2024 compared to $9.5 million for the full year of 2023.

Industry News

More from TALKERS Generations 2025 at IBSNYC

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Pictured above is Talk Media Network nationally syndicated talk host Dr. Daliah Wachs introducing the “Radio’s Place in a Diverse, Digital World” panel.

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Pictured above is WGDJ, Albany owner and talk host Paul Vandenburgh making a point while speaking on the “Launching and Managing a Career in a Changing Media Industry” panel.

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Pictured above is WICC, Bridgeport talk host Lisa Wexler discussing the talk host’s responsibility to their listeners to be truthful with their audience.

All photos by Olivia Mannarino.

Industry News

Newsmax Announces Initial Public Offering

Newsmax Inc announces the launch of its initial public offering, inviting investors nationwide to become shareholders in its television and digital media platforms. Last week the company’s Offering Statement was qualified by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Newsmax is looking to raise up to $75 millionimg with a planned March 31, 2025 listing on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol NMAX, subject to NYSE approval. This IPO comes shortly after it completed a private Preferred Offering in February raising $225 million. Newsmax CEO Christopher Ruddy says, “Our success with our Preferred raise shows the enormous support our company has as we made thousands of Americans part owners in Newsmax. Now, the initial public offering opens the door for tens of thousands more to join our news revolution and be a part of the first ever company to complete a crowd financed offering on to the main board of the NYSE.”

Industry News

Red Apple to Syndicate Anthony Cumia Weekend Show

Red Apple Audio Networks announces that it is offering the new “Anthony Cumia Show” in national syndication. Cumia’s program airs live on WABC, New York on Sunday evenings from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Speaking about his return to terrestrial radio, Cumia says, “I missed radio, and I am thrilled at theimg interest from radio stations nationwide. Radio is a great way to engage with the audience, and now that Red Apple Audio Networks is taking the show national, I can’t wait to connect with listeners in other markets.” Red Apple and 77WABC Radio president Chad Lopez states, “Radio clearly wants Anthony Cumia, as dozens of inquiries came in asking about syndication. We shifted into high gear and moved quickly. One of our advantages at Red Apple Media is that we can swiftly pivot to meet market demand.”

Industry News

Gun Talk Celebrates 30 Years on the Radio

Tom Gresham’s “Gun Talk” is celebrating 30 years on the air. The host of the nationally syndicated shooting sports talk show says, “‘Gun Talk’ radio is perhaps more important today than when it started 30img years ago. Whether it’s helping the first-time gun buyer sort out what she needs to buy, or exposing politicians who claim to be supporters of the Second Amendment while putting restrictions on this right, there’s plenty to talk about. Responsible gun ownership is strong, and I’m glad to be part of movement.” The program airs live on Sundays from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm ET and is heard on more than 260 stations.

Industry News

Rumble Acquires $17.1 Million in Bitcoin

Video-sharing platform and cloud services provider Rumble announces that it has added approximately 188 Bitcoin to its treasury at an average price of approximately $91,000 per coin, consistent with its previously announced Bitcoin treasury strategy to allocate up to $20 million to Bitcoin. The company saysimg this move further emphasizes its conviction in Bitcoin as a valuable tool for strategic planning and reinforces its expansion into cryptocurrency. Rumble chairman and CEO Chris Pavlovski comments, “We are excited to announce these purchases and allocation of Bitcoin as part of our treasury strategy as well as a larger strategic move as we further expand our ties to the crypto industry. These holdings have the potential to serve as a valuable hedge against inflation and will not be subject to dilution like so many overprinted government-issued currencies.”

Industry News

Erick Erickson Show Adds New Affiliates

The Compass Media Networks syndicated “Erick Erickson Show” adds new affiliate stations to its roster.img Now airing the program are Townsquare Media’s KONA-AM, Tri-Cities, Washington; Eifel Tower Broadcasting’s KZHN-AM, Paris, Texas; Vero Beach Broadcasters’ WTTB, Vero Beach, Florida; and Zimmer Midwest Communications’ KWTO, Springfield, Missouri. “The Erick Erickson Show” airs live weekdays from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET.

Industry News

BFoA Honors Dan Mason with Lifetime Achievement Award

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The photo above was taken at the Broadcasters Foundation of America’s Golden Mic Award gala and fundraiser in New York City on Monday evening. Pictured (from l-r) are BFoA chairman Scott Herman; former CBS Radio CEO and recipient of the 2025 Edward F. McLaughlin Lifetime Achievement Award, Dan Mason; and BFoA president Tim McCarthy. Also taking place at the Golden Mic Award gala was Katz Media Group CEO and BFOA board member Marc Gray accepting the Philip J. Lombardo Spirit Award on behalf of Katz Media, which has raised more than $450,000 with its annual company-wide donation drive to support the BFoA.

Industry News

Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (3/11)

The most discussed stories yesterday (3/11) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS research:

1. Trumps Tariff Wars
2. Financial Markets Plunge
3. Department of Education Cuts
4. Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Proposal
5. Greenland Elections

Industry News

More from TALKERS Generations 2025 at IBSNYC

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Pictured above is WABC, New York journalist and talk show host Dominic Carter giving a high-five to one of the students asking him career advice. Carter spoke on the “Radio’s Place in a Diverse, Digital World” panel.

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Pictured above is TALKERS VP and executive editor Kevin Casey showing off the new C. Crane WiFi 3 internet radio. TALKERS and C. Crane gave away five of these radios to college students who were eager to get them.

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Pictured above is consultant and WPHT, Philadelphia & nationally syndicated talk host Walter Sabo making a point during his panel discussion. A student asked for his advice about launching a career out of college and Sabo told her, “First, decide where you want to live. Once you’re in that city, you can begin to approach broadcasting companies about getting your foot in the door.”

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Pictured above is Salem Radio Network talk host Mike Gallagher speaking while taking part in the “Radio’s Place in a Diverse, Digital World” panel. All photos by Olivia Mannarino

Industry News

Audacy Gives KMOX, St. Louis a Full Market FM

Audacy does a frequency swap in St. Louis giving news/talk KMOX-AM the full-market Class C2 FM atimg 104.1 that had been the home to hip hop WHHL-FM “HOT 104.1.” In return, KMOX gives up translator K254CR at 98.7 to the hip hop outlet. These changes become effective on March 24. Audacy St. Louis and Wichita SVP and market manager Becky Domyan says, “We’re thrilled to expand KMOX’s reach and bring the trusted news and entertainment our listeners rely on, as well as Cardinals baseball, on an enhanced FM signal that covers the greater St. Louis region.”

Industry News

Cumulus Facing NASDAQ Delisting

Last week, Cumulus Media received a notification from the listing qualifications department of NASDAQ indicating that, based on the company’s stockholders’ equity of $6.95 million is not in compliance with the minimum stockholders’ equity requirement for continued listing on the NASDAQ Global Market. The ruleimg requires companies to maintain stockholders’ equity of at least $10 million or meet the alternative compliance standards relating to the market value of the listed securities or the company’s total assets and revenue. Now, Cumulus has until April 21 to provide NASDAQ with a plan to achieve and sustain compliance. If NASDAQ accepts the plan, NASDAQ may grant an extension of up to 180 calendar days to evidence compliance. Cumulus says it is continuing to evaluate potential options to resolve the deficiency and regain compliance, including the possibility of applying to transfer to the NASDAQ Capital Market.

Industry News

2025 iHeartPodcast Awards Announced

Last night, the 2025 iHeartPodcast Awards were presented at the ACL Live at The Moody Theater in Austin, Texas at SXSW. The Podcast of the Year honor went to “Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang. The Best News award was given to with journalist Kara Swisher and NYU professor Scott Galloway for their show “Pivot.” The Best Political podcast honor was presented to “The Megyn Kelly Show.” See all the winners here.

Industry News

The Last Show Expands to Six Canadian Markets

New York City-based comic and former Silicon Valley engineer David Cooper strikes a deal to get his talk show, “The Last Show with David Cooper” on six Canadian signals: CKNW, Vancouver; CFIQ, Toronto;img CHQR, Calgary; CHED, Edmonton; CJOB Winnipeg; and CFPL, London. Cooper is focusing on Canadian markets because he was born in Toronto and was heard in Canada on the iHeartRadio talk network. Cooper says, “It’s what happens when you mix relationship advice, scientific breakthroughs, and the world’s weirdest headlines into one show. Somehow, it all makes sense.” Cooper says the show targets the 25-54 demographic. He also serves as technical director and host at Burning Man Radio during his annual Nevada festival pilgrimage. He adds, “What do I know? Talk radio programmers call it a strategic counterprogramming solution, designed to capture audiences from alt-rock or NPR stations.”