Industry News

WABC, New York to Broadcast Live from RNC

WABC Radio and the Red Apple Audio Networks are broadcasting and streaming live from the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee today through Thursday. WABC says, “Throughout the day, WABC Radioim reporter James Flippin will capture the excitement from the convention floor with up-to-the-minute reports and on-the-spot interviews. WABC Radio host Jeanine Pirro will be attending the Convention and will stop by the WABC Radio Booth to share her views.” Company CEO John Catsimatidis adds, “This is an important time in America, and Americans want to know who will be the next president. As a trusted news and political source, it is our responsibility to provide WABC Radio listeners and our affiliated stations’ listeners vital information and insightful commentary live from the Republican National Convention.

Industry News

Jesse Kelly Show Joins WFLF, Orlando

The Premiere Networks nationally syndicated “Jesse Kelly Show” is being added to the program lineup atim iHeartMedia’s news/talk WFLF, Orlando, airing from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm. iHeartMedia Orlando SVP of programming Ken Holiday states, “We are thrilled to welcome Jesse Kelly to WFLA Orlando! Starting Monday, July 15, Jesse will bring his unfiltered and unapologetic insights to our listeners. From history to politics to pizza, Jesse’s show has it all in a no-nonsense kind of way. Whether you’re a veteran like Jesse or just a good ol’ fashioned red-blooded American, the show has something for everyone.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend

The Donald Trump assassination attempt; this week’s Republican National Convention in Milwaukee; Joe Biden’s fitness for the presidency; Israel’s strike against Hamas military leaders; China’s Communist Party gathers to address its troubled economy; the ongoing struggle in Houston to return power to residents after Hurricane Beryl; the heatwave affecting much of the U.S.; and Dr. Ruth Westheimer dies were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.

Ratings Takeaways

June 2024 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

imJune 2024 PPM Data – Information for Nielsen Audio’s June 2024 survey period (May 23 – June 19) has been released for Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford.

No share or rank thresholds are required to be included here.

DNA – DNA = Did Not Appear – Does Not Appear

Comparisons are May 2024 – June 2024 (6+). 

AUSTIN

News/Talk

KLBJ-AM 4.4 – 4.5, #7 – #8

KJCE .1 – DNA, #29 – DNA

News

None

Sports Talk

KBPA-HD2  1.0 – 1.0, #21 – #19

KVET-AM .6 – .7, #22 – #22

KTAE DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

KUT 6.1 – 4.9, #3 – #5

KUT-HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA   

Note: Public radio news/talk KUT posts a -1.2 (6.1 – 4.9), which is Austin’s largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 decrease.

RALEIGH

News/Talk

WTKK 8.3 – 8.6, #2  – #3

WPTF .4 – .5, #24 – #24

News

WRAL-HD3 .7 – .6, #19 – #21

Sports Talk

WCMC-FM 3.2 – 2.3, #12 – #14

WCMC-FM HD2 .1 – DNA, #25 – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WUNC 6.9 – 8.0, #5 – #4 

Notes: While public radio news/talk WUNC’s +1.1 (6.9 – 8.0) represents a tie for Raleigh’s largest (6+)May 2024 – June 2024 increase, sports talk WCMC-FM’s -.9 (3.2 – 2.3) is tied for the market’s largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 decrease.

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk

WIBC 6.9 – 7.5, #4 – #4

News

WOLT-HD2 .2 – .3, #22 – #22

Sports Talk

WIBC-HD2  3.5 – 2.9, #14 – #14

WNDE .1 – .3, #23 – #22

WXNT DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

WFNI DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WFYI 4.8 – 4.8, #9 – #8

MILWAUKEE 

News/Talk

WISN 12.1 – 12.5, tenth consecutive month at #1

WAUK DNA – .2, DNA – #22

WLIP .1 – .1, #26 – #27

WTMJ DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Brewers)

WGKB DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA  

News

None

Sports Talk

WRNW 2.1 – 1.9, #15 – #15

WOKY .3 – .2, #21 – #22

WSSP .2 – .1, #23 – #27

WKTI DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WUWM 2.6 – 2.4, #14 – #14

WHAD-HD2 DNA – .1, DNA – #27

NASHVILLE

News/Talk

WWTN 6.5 – 5.5, #4 – #8

WLAC 1.6 – 1.0, #17 – #18

News

WNRQ-HD2 Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WGFX 5.3 – 6.6, #9 – #3

WPRT 2.3 – 1.9, #16 – #16

Public Radio News/Talk

WPLN 3.1 – 2.9, #15 – #14

WPLN-HD3 Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

PROVIDENCE 

News/Talk

WPRO-AM 7.3 – 6.5, #4 – #5

WHJJ  1.2 – 1.1, #13 – #12

News

None

Sports Talk

WVEI 1.8 – 1.6, #10 – #10

WPRV .1 – .1, #19 – #18

WBZ-FM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WGBH 2.2 – 2.0, #8 – #8

WNPN 1.0 – 1.1, #15 – #12

WCAI .1 – .1, #19 – #18

NORFOLK

News/Talk

WNIS  2.4 – 2.2, #13 – #13

WGH-FM HD2  .1 – DNA, #24 – DNA

News

WNOH Black Information Network .3 – .3, #22 – #22

Sports Talk

WVSP 1.4 – .9, #16 – #19

WGH-AM .1 – .1, #24 – #25

Public Radio News/Talk

None 

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk

WOKV-FM 8.7 – 9.4, #3 – #2

News

WJBT-HD2 Black Information Network .2 – .2, #22 – #20

Sports Talk

WOKV-AM .2 – .2, #22 – #20

Public Radio News/Talk

WJCT 2.8 – 1.9, #12 – #14

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk

WFTL 2.6 – 2.1, #9 – #9

WJNO 1.2 – 1.6, #13 – #13

WZZR 1.0 – 1.3 #14 – #14

News

None

Sports Talk

WMEN .5 – .4, #16 – #16

WBZT .3 – .4, #18 – #16

Public Radio News/Talk

WLRN 2.2 – 2.9, #11 – #8

WLRN-HD2 Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA    

GREENSBORO

News/Talk

WPTI 3.7 – 3.5 #10 – #11

News

None

Sports Talk

None

Public Radio News/Talk

WFDD 4.2 – 4.3, #9 – #8

WUNC 2.1 – 1.9, #12 – #14

MEMPHIS

News/Talk

WREC 1.4 – 2.7, #10 – #7

KWAM .5 – .4, #12 – #12

News

WJMS-HD2 Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WMFS 2.6 – 2.7, #7 – #7

WMC-AM .3 – .4, #13 – #12

WMFS Stream .2 – .4, #14 – #12 

Public Radio News/Talk

WKNO 1.0 – .5, #11 – #11

WKNO-HD2  DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Note: News/talk WREC’s +1.3 (1.4 – 2.7) constitutes Memphis’ largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 increase.

HARTFORD

News/Talk

WTIC-AM 4.2 – 4.4, #8 – #8

WDRC-AM 1.2 – 1.7, #16 – #15

WPOP .2 – .2, #20 – #20

WTIC-AM Stream .2 – .2, #20 – #20

News

None

Sports Talk

WUCS 1.5 – 1.1, #15 – #16

Public Radio News/Talk

WNPR 6.4 – 5.7, #5 – #6

WFCR .4 – .6, #19 – #17 

Notes: Public radio news/talk WNPR’s -.7 (6.4 – 5.7) represents a tie for Hartford’s largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 decrease. 

Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry News

Wisconsin Network Edits Biden Interview at Campaign’s Request

According to a report in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the progressive talk radio network Civic Media edited two portions of an interview of President Joe Biden by talk show host Earl Ingram at the request ofim the Biden campaign. Civic Media said in a statement that through the moves, that station “fell short of journalistic standards.” Civic Media said, On Monday, July 8th, it was reported to Civic Media management that immediately after the phone interview was recorded, the Biden campaign called and asked for two edits to the recording before it aired. Civic Media management immediately undertook an investigation and determined that the production team at the time viewed the edits as non-substantive and broadcast and published the interview with two short segments removed.” The network airs programming in Madison, Milwaukee and numerous other markets throughout the state.

Industry News

Frank Cusumano to Join KTRS, St. Louis as Wendy Wiese’s Co-Host

St. Louis media personality Frank Cusumano – who’s spent much of the last 30 years in sports talk imradio and television in St. Louis – will join news/talk KTRS, St. Louis to co-host the midday show with incumbent Wendy Wiese. Cusumano was most recently with sports talk KFNS, St. Louis until owner Dave Zobrist pulled the plug on local sports hosts and installed FOX Sports Radio. Zobrist is putting KFNS up for sale. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that Cusumano is taking over the co-hosting duties from Jennifer Blome after her recent retirement.

Industry News

KXEL, Waterloo Broadcasts from “Iowa’s Roast and Ride”

im

Pictured above is KXEL, Waterloo, Iowa program director and program host Jeff Stein (left) interviewing Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds (right) at the annual summertime “Iowa’s Roast and Ride” charity event at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines. The 90-minute live broadcast  on the NRG Media news/talk station’s “Iowa Talking Points” was simulcast on a live video stream by Mudd Advertising and its Studio5@Mudd remote production team. The broadcast served as the “pregame show” before the luncheon event, which boasted 1,000 attendees. Spearheaded by U.S. Senator Joni Ernst, the event is sponsored by Mission Iowa, a non-profit organization. It begins with a motorcycle fundraiser ride to the fairgrounds and culminates with a barbeque luncheon and speeches. This year’s event raised $10,000.00 for the Iowa Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation.

Industry News

Round Three of June PPMs Released

imThe third of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s June 2024 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 May 23 through June 19. Today, TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In Portland, Alpha Media’s news/talk KXL-FM drops eight-tenths for a 5.0 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) finish that leaves it ranked #5 in the market, while iHeartMedia news/talk KEX adds one-tenth for a 1.8 share that lifts it to the #18 rank. In San Antonio, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WOAI rises three-tenths to a 3.1 share and remains ranked #13, while Alpha Media’s news/talk KTSA dips a half share to finish with a 1.4 share leaving it ranked #22 in the market. In Salt Lake City, Bonneville’s news/talk KSL-AM/FM rises 1.2 shares for a 6.1 share finish that lifts it to the #2 rank, while iHeartMedia’s news/talk KNRS-AM/FM is steady with a 3.1 share but rises to the #12 rank. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

Industry News

WGN, Chicago Adds Frank Morano for Overnights

The Red Apple Audio Network syndicated program “The Other Side of Midnight with Frank Morano” isim added to the program schedule at Nexstar Media’s WGN, Chicago beginning Monday (7/15). WGN Radio VP and general manager Mary Sandberg Boyle says, “‘The Other Side of Midnight with Frank Morano’ is engaging, creative, and lively – a trifecta not often found in late night radio shows.”

Industry News

WRHU GM John Mullen is This Week’s Guest on Harrison Podcast

John Mullen is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series, “The Michael Harrison Interview.” Mullen is tremendously accomplished and respected in college and university radio broadcasting holding the position of general manager at one of the most celebrated and prestigious campus stations in America – WRHU-FM and WRHU.org at Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY. WRHU has been honored with multiple NAB Marconi Awards – some in categories usually reserved for professional, commercial outlets. The high-profile station also has an impressive track record of working with New York City commercial radio in the production of major league PBP sports programming and then some. Some of the nation’s leading broadcasters – including legends – have come up through Hofstra’s Lawrence Herbert School of Communication. TALKERS has partnered with WRHU for five recent installments of its 27-year run of annual national talk media industry conferences. Harrison states, “Obviously, I know our guest very well. I am proud to call him a friend and a colleague. He is a man who left a successful career in New York City radio programming and management years back to become a master educator in the field of radio and play a role, year after year, in the training and inspiring of young, fresh careers in the business of communications. He is one of the industry’s most astute experts and a man very closely in touch with the feelings and culture of the next generation of radio and television broadcasters. What he says in this interview contains important insights into the state and future of radio.” To listen to the podcast in its entirety, click here

Industry News

Stefan Jones Promoted to President of USRN

Gemini XIII announces that Stefan Jones is promoted to president of United Stations Radio Networks. Gemini XIII CEO Spencer Brown states, “We are incredibly excited to elevate Stefan Jones to this position.im His expertise, passion, and approach align perfectly with our mission to deliver exceptional audio content and services.” In his new role, Jones will oversee all aspects of USRN’s operations, including programming, services, affiliate relations, and affiliate sales. He will continue to work closely with the talented team at USRN and parent company Gemini XIII to develop innovative strategies that enhance the network’s offerings and drive value for its affiliates and partners.

Industry News

SiriusXM Shows to Broadcast from the RNC

SiriusXM announces that a number of its political talk shows will broadcast live from Milwaukee during nextim week’s Republican National Convention. “The Megyn Kelly Show” will broadcast live from the pavilion at the Fiserv Forum on both Wednesday and Thursday. Julie Mason will host her POTUS show each day from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm and will then kick off the channel’s special nighttime coverage starting on Monday at 8:00 pm ET. And David Webb will also host his Patriot channel program, “The David Webb Show,” in late mornings in addition to joining Patriot’s primetime programming starting Monday at 9:00 pm ET.

Industry News

WVON, Chicago to Broadcast from the RNC

Midway Broadcasting Corp says that urban talk WVON, Chicago will broadcast live from the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on Wednesday (7/17) and Thursday (7/18). Its Spanish-language sisterim station – WRLL, Chicago “1450-La Vozde la Comunidad Latina – will also be on hand, fielding Spanish-language interviews. Midway CEO Melody Spann-Cooper comments, “This initiative underscores our commitment to delivering authentic voices and viewpoints from our multicultural audience. We are excited to bring the RNC closer to our listeners and provide them with direct access to the conversations shaping our nation’s future.”

Industry News

Top News/Talk Stories for Week of July 8 – 12

President Joe Biden’s health, efforts to get him to drop out of the race and Thursday night’s press conference combined as the most-talked-about story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the presidential race, followed by former President Donald Trump and the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025 at #3. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed in news/talk media during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS. See this week’s complete chart here.

Ratings Takeaways

June 2024 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Three

imJune 2024 PPM Data – Information for Nielsen Audio’s June 2024 ratings period (May 23 – June 19) has been released for Portland, Charlotte, San Antonio, Sacramento, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Orlando, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Kansas City, and Columbus.

No share or rank thresholds are required to be included here.

DNA – DNA = Did Not Appear – Does Not Appear

Comparisons are May 2024 – June 2024 (6+).

PORTLAND

News/Talk

KXL 5.8 – 5.0, #2 – #5

KEX 1.7 – 1.8, #20 – #18

KUFO .7 – .7, #24 – #23

KPAM .3 – .3, #31 – #31

News

None

Sports Talk

KXTG 1.2 – 1.1, #21 – #21

KFXX 1.0 – 1.1, #22 – #21

KPOJ .4 – .4, #26 – #26

KMTT .2 – .2, #33 – #33

KFXX Stream  .1 – DNA, #36 – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

KOPB 5.0 – 5.3, #5 – #3

KOPB Stream  1.0 – .7, #22 – #23

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk

WBT 4.7– 5.0, #7 – #5

News

WRFX-HD2 Black Information Network .1 – .1, #23 – #24

Sports Talk

WFNZ-FM 3.7 – 3.0, #10 – #14

WSOC-HD3 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WFAE 3.4 – 2.9, #12 – #15

WNSC .7 – .7, #21 – #21

WFAE-HD3 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk

WOAI 2.8– 3.1, #13 – #13

KTSA 1.9 – 1.4, #19 – #22

News

None

Sports Talk

KTFM 1.4 – 1.2, #21 – #23

KTKR .5 – .4, #29 – #28

KZDC .4 – .4, #31 – #28

Public Radio News/Talk

KSTX 2.1 – 2.4, #17 – #16 

SACRAMENTO

News/Talk

KFBK 8.0 – 7.2 #2 – #3

KSTE-AM 2.5 – 2.3, #15 – #15

KSAC-AM 1.0 – .6, #21 – #26

News

None

Sports Talk

KHTK .9 – 1.0, #23 – #21

KIFM 1.0 – .8, #21 – #23

KIFM Stream  DNA – .1, DNA – #30 

Public Radio News/Talk

KXJZ 3. 6 – 3.1, #10 – #11

KQEI .2 – .3, #28 – #28

KQED .1 – .1, #30 – #30

KUOP DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk

KDKA-AM 4.6 – 4.5, #9 – #8

KDKA-AM Stream  .3 – .5, #18 – #18

News

None

Sports Talk

KDKA-FM (Pirates) 7.8 – 7.0, #3 – #5

KDKA-FM Stream (Pirates) .3 – .3, #18 – #19

WBGG .1 – DNA, #20 – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WESA 4.7 – 3.2, #8 – #10      

Note: Public radio news/talk WESA’s -1.5 (4.7 – 3.2) represents Pittsburgh’s largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 decrease.

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk

KSL-AM/FM 4.9 – 6.1, #4 – #2

KNRS-AM/FM 3.1 – 3.1, #14 – #12

KKAT .1 – .1, #27 – #27

News

None

Sports Talk

KALL 1.2 – .5, #22 – #24

KZNS-FM .7 – .5, #25 – #24

KZNS-AM .3 – .1, #26 – #27

KZNS-AM Stream  DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

KZNS-FM Stream  DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

KOVO DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

KUER 3.6 – 2.5, #12 – #17

KBYU-HD2 Stream  .1 – .1, #27 – #27

KUMT .1 – .1, #27 – #27    

Note: News/talk KSL’s +1.2 (4.9 – 6.1) represents Salt Lake City’s largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 increase.

LAS VEGAS

News/Talk

KMXB-HD3 1.7– 1.8, #22 – #20

KXNT .2 – .4, #33 – #31

KMZQ .1 – .3, #37 – #34

KXNT Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

None

Sports Talk

KWWN .5 – .4, #28 – #31

KKGK .3 – .3, #29 – #34

KRLV .1 – .3, #37 – #34

KENO .1 – DNA, #37 – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

KNPR 1.5 – 1.3, #24 – #23

ORLANDO

News/Talk

WTKS 5.1 – 5.6, #7 – #5

WDBO 3.7 – 3.6, #10 – #10

WFLF .8 – .8, #19 – #18

WFYY .5 – .5, #21 – #21

WFYY-HD3 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

None

Sports Talk

WYGM 1.0 – .8, #17 – #18

WDYZ DNA – .1, DNA – #25

WOCL-HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WMFE DNA – 2.0, DNA – #14

WMFV 1.8 – DNA, #16 – DNA

CINCINNATI

News/Talk

WLW 11.8 – 10.3, #2 – #2 (Reds)

WKRC 6.1 – 5.4, #5 – #6

News

None

Sports Talk

WCKY .8 – .6, #19 – #20

WSAI .4 – .4, #21 – #21

Public Radio News/Talk

WVXU 3.2 – 3.4, #10 – #9   

Note: News/talk WLW’s -1.5 (11.8 – 10.3) represents Cincinnati’s largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 decrease.

CLEVELAND

News/Talk

WTAM 7.4 – 7.0, #5 – #5 (Guardians)

News

WMMS-HD2 Black Information Network .1 – DNA, #23 – DNA

Sports Talk

WKRK 4.8 – 4.4, #10 – #10

WKRK Stream 1.0 – .6, #19 – #19

WARF .1 – .1, #23 – #24

Public Radio News/Talk

WKSU 5.5 – 6.6, #7 – #6

WKSU-HD4 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA   

Note: Public radio news/talk WKSU’s +1.1 (5.5 – 6.6) represents Cleveland’s largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 increase.

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk

KMBZ-FM 5.4 – 5.5, #4 – #4

KCMO-AM 1.5 – 1.7, #17 – #17

KMBZ-AM 1.3 – 1.2, #18 – #20

KMBZ-FM Stream 1.3 – 1.0, #18 – #23

KCMO-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

KMBZ-FM HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

None

Sports Talk

KCSP 3.3 – 3.2, #11 – #10 (Royals)

KCSP Stream  1.1 – 1.0, #21 – #23 (Royals)

KWOD DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

KCUR 2.3 – 2.2, #15 – #16

KANU-HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

COLUMBUS

News/Talk

WTVN 5.5 – 5.2, #6 – #6    

News

Black Information Network WYTS DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WBNS-FM 7.8 – 7.8, #2 – #2

WBNS-AM .4 – .1, #21 #22

WMNI .1 – .1, #23 – #22

WBNS-FM HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WOSU 5.4 – 4.6, #7 – #7

Up next: June 2024 overviews for Austin; Raleigh; Indianapolis; Milwaukee; Nashville; Providence; Norfolk; Jacksonville; West Palm Beach; Greensboro; Memphis; and Hartford. 

Mike.Kinosian@gmail.com

Industry News

Audacy Elevates Jeff Miller in Cleveland

Audacy names Jeff Miller SVP, market manager and director of sales for the Cleveland operations that includes sports talk WKRK-FM “92.3 The Fan” and four music brands.  Audacy regional president Markim Hannon says, “Jeff has been one of our key sales management leaders for nearly three decades, leading robust sales teams and managing salespeople of all experience levels. He has also been an integral player in making ‘92.3 The Fan’ one of the market’s dominant revenue leaders while managing the relationship with our key partner, the Cleveland Browns. I know that Jeff will advance the legacy of Tom Herschel as Audacy Cleveland’s new leader, and I look forward to working with him to set the path forward.” Miller comments, “I am humbled, motivated and very excited to accept this fantastic opportunity to lead Audacy Cleveland. I look forward to working with our team and the entire organization to build on the success we experienced under Tom Herschel’s guidance.”

Industry News

Smith Rises to CFO at Cox Media Group

Cox Media Group promotes Brad Smith to chief financial officer. He has been serving as SVP of finance &im FP&A since 2020 and has been interim CFO for the past six months. CMG president and CEO Dan York states, “Brad brings a unique skillset and perspective to the role of CFO. He’s committed to maximizing company performance and efficiency and has been invaluable in helping CMG win in our local markets today while positioning us to continue to do so in the future. This is a well-earned promotion for Brad that also reflects the strength and depth of CMG’s talented team.”

Industry News

Molly Brown Joins ESPN Madison’s Afternoon Show

Good Karma Brands announces that guest and fill-in host Molly Brown joins the afternoon drive show on sports talk WTLX-FM, Madison, Wisconsin “ESPN Madison” alongside Jim Rutledge and Olympic goldim medalist Matt Hamilton for the new “Jim, Matt, and Molly Show,” effective July 15. Hamilton says, “We are so excited to welcome Molly to the show! Fans can continue to enjoy our sports comedy vibe, with Molly adding new perspectives and insights.” In addition to her on-air roles, Brown also serves as ESPN Madison’s marketing manager. She won a 2023 Wisconsin Broadcasters Award for “Best Original Digital Content” as the host of ESPN Madison’s “Lead Her Forward” special showcasing women’s athletics at UW-Madison.

Industry News

Round Two of June PPMs Released

imThe second of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s June 2024 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. The survey period covered May 23 through June 19. Today, TALKERS managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In Washington, Cumulus Media’s news/talk WMAL-FM slips two-tenths to a 3.6 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) and remains ranked #11 in the market, while Hubbard Broadcasting’s all-news WTOP-FM rises 1.3 shares to a 9.5 share and stays locked in the #2 rank. In Seattle, Bonneville’s news/talk KIRO-FM adds four-tenths to finish with a 4.9 share that lifts it to the #5 rank, while sister conservative talk KTTH-AM adds a half share to finish with a 2.0 share good for the #22 rank, and Lotus Communications’ conservative talk KVI tacks on three-tenths for a 2.1 share good for the #21 rank. In Phoenix, iHeartMedia’s news/talk KFYI inches up one-tenth for a 3.5 share but falls back to the #9 rank, while Bonneville’s news/talk KTAR-FM is steady with a 2.3 share and rises to the #18 rank. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets here.

Industry News

Premiere Talk Hosts Originating from RNC Next Week

A number of Premiere Networks nationally syndicated talk hosts will present their programs live from the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee next week. The “Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show” andim “The Jesse Kelly Show” will originate from Milwaukee’s convention center beginning on Monday (7/15). The “Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show” will broadcast from local affiliate “News/Talk 1130” WISN on Friday (7/19). Additionally, Sean Hannity will host “The Sean Hannity Show” along with his primetime FOX News Channel program “Hannity” live from Milwaukee. Ben Ferguson will also be on the ground in Milwaukee covering the convention for his various programs, including the nationally syndicated weekend program “The Ben Ferguson Show,” “The Ben Ferguson Podcast” and the “Verdict with Ted Cruz” podcast.

Industry News

“101.7 The Truth” to Hold “Walk Against Violence”

Good Karma Brands’ urban talk WGKB-AM/W269DL, Milwaukee “101.7 The Truth” is presenting the Toryim Lowe Walk Against Violence on July 20. Hosted by afternoon talk host Tory Lowe, the two-mile walk provides “an opportunity to come together and make a strong statement against violence, striving towards creating a safer and more harmonious community.” Lowe comments, “We cannot tolerate people who exemplify dangerous and unlawful behaviors that cause harm to innocent men, women, and children. The Walk Against Violence symbolizes strength and encouragement to those who are willing to act against the recklessness and negativity harming our communities.”

Industry News

Yesterday’s (7/10) Top News/Talk Media Stories

More high-profile Democrats and donors call on Joe Biden to leave the race for president and today’s scheduled press conference; Donald Trump’s distancing himself from the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025; NATO accuses China of aiding Russia’s war in Ukraine; AOC and other far-left Democrats file articles of impeachment against Supreme Court Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito; the Israel-Hamas war; the status of Rudy Giuliani’s bankruptcy case; the heatwave affecting the U.S. and the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl on the Houston area were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.

Ratings Takeaways

June 2024 PPM Ratings – Part Two

imJune 2024 PPM Data – Information for Nielsen Audio’s June 2024 ratings period (May 23 – June 19) has been released for: Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis.

No share or rank thresholds are required for spoken-word stations to be included here.

DNA – DNA = Did Not Appear – Does Not Appear

Comparisons are May 2024 – June 2024 (6+).

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk

WMAL 3.8 – 3.6, #11 – #11

WFED .1 – .1, #31 – #30 (Nationals)

News

WTOP & WTLP 8.2 – 9.5, #2 – #2

Business News WDCH .6 – .6, #24 – #23

Business News WDCH Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

WMZQ-HD2 Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

WUST DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WJFK-FM 2.0 – 1.4, #16 – #17 (Nationals)

WJFK-FM Stream .9 – .6, #19 – #23 (Nationals)

WTEM .5 – .2, #26 – #27

WTEM Stream .4 – .4, #28 – #28

WSBN .1 – .1, #31 – #30

WTSD .1 – DNA, #31 – DNA

WJFK-AM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Nationals)

Public Radio News/Talk

WAMU 10.7 – 11.3, 32nd month in succession at #1

BOSTON

News/Talk

WRKO 2.9 – 2.9, #13 – #13

WXKS-AM .6 – .6, #24 – #23

News

News – Talk WBZ-AM 4.5 – 4.7, #7 – #7

Business news WRCA .2 – .1, #26 – #28

Black Information Network WJMN-HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WBZ-FM 11.0 – 9.9, sixth straight month at #1

WEEI-FM 4.0 – 3.5, #8 – #10 (Red Sox)

WEEI-FM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Red Sox)

WEEI-AM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Red Sox)

Public Radio News/Talk

WBUR 5.4 – 5.4, #4 – #5

WGBH 3.8 – 3.1, #9 – #11 

Note: While on top the sixth month in a row, sports talk WBZ-FM has Boston’s largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 decrease (11.0 – 9.9, -1.1). It is the flagship of the NBA’s Celtics, which captured their record-setting eighteenth NBA championship on June 17.

MIAMI

News/Talk

WIOD 1.4 – 1.9, #21 – #21

News

WXBN Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WQAM .9 – 1.1 #25 – #23

WINZ .5 – .5, #30 – #31 (Marlins)

WQAM Stream .2 – .4, #33 – #32

WMEN .1 – .1, #36 – #38

WSFS-HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

WAXY DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WLRN 4.3 – 4.3, #6 – #7

WLRN-HD2 .1 – DNA, #36 – DNA    

Note: Sports talk WQAM is the flagship of the NHL’s Florida Panthers, which – on June 24 – won the NHL Stanley Cup.

SEATTLE

News/Talk

KIRO-FM 4.5 – 4.9, #6 – #5

KVI 1.8 – 2.1, #21  – #21

KTTH 1.5 – 2.0, #23 – #22

KPTR .1 – .1, #29 – #29

News

KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM 2.4 – 2.5, #17 – #18

KHHO Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

KIRO-AM 3.3 – 3.9, #14 – #10 (Mariners)

KJR-FM 1.8 – 1.6, #21 – #23

KJR-AM .7 – .6, #26 – #26

Public Radio News/Talk

KUOW 7.3 – 6.6, #2 – #2

KSWS DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

DETROIT

News/Talk

WJR 1.7 – 1.9, #17 – #16

WFDF .3 – .5, #25 – #22

WJR Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

News

WWJ 4.4 – 4.7, #11 – #9

WWJ Stream .4 – .3, #24 – #24

WDFN Black Information Network .1 – .1, #29 – #26

Sports Talk

WXYT-FM 8.2 – 7.5, #2 – #2 (Tigers)

WXYT-FM Stream 1.6 – 1.1, #18 – #20 (Tigers)

WXYT-AM .2 – .1, #26 – #26 (Tigers)

WXYT-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Tigers)

Public Radio News/Talk

WDET 1.9 – 1.8, #16 – #17

WUOM 1.5 – 1.4, #19 – #18

PHOENIX

News/Talk

KFYI 3.4 – 3.5, #8 – #9

KTAR-FM 2.3 – 2.3, #19 – #18

News

None

Sports Talk

KMVP-FM 3.4 – 2.6, #8 – #14 (Arizona Diamondbacks)

KTAR-AM .1 – .2, #33 – #31 (Arizona Diamondbacks)

KDUS .1 – .1, #33 – #33

KGME DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

KTAR-AM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Arizona Diamondbacks)

KTAR-FM HD2 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

KJZZ 2.6 – 2.5, #14 – #15

Note: Sports talk KMVP-FM’s -.8 (3.4 – 2.6) is Phoenix’s largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 decrease.

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk

WCCO 4.6 – 4.5, #9 – #9 (Minnesota Twins)

KTLK-AM 1.9 – 2.2, #17 – #14

KTMY 2.7 – 2.2, #14 – #14

WCCO Stream .5 – .5, #25 – #24 (Minnesota Twins)

News

KQQL-HD2 Black Information Network .1 – DNA, #30 – DNA

Sports Talk

KFXN 8.4 – 6.7, #2 – #3

KSTP-AM .1 – .1, #30 – #30

KQQL-HD3 DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

KNOW 6.0 – 6.0, #6 – #8

KNOW Stream .9 – .6, #2 3 – #23

Note: Sports talk KFXN’s -1.7 (8.4 – 6.7) is Minneapolis’ largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 decrease.

SAN DIEGO 

News/Talk

KOGO 3.9 – 3.5, #9 – #11

KLSD .4 – .5, #23 – #23

News

KSSX-HD2 Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

KWFN 4.3 – 4.6, #7 – #7 (Padres)

KGB-AM .4 – .4, #23 – #24

KWFN Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA (Padres)

Public Radio News/Talk

KPBS 6.6 – 7.4, #2 – #1 

Note: In addition to advancing from second to first, public radio news/talk KPBS notches a +.8 (6.6 – 7.4), which represents San Diego’s largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 increase.

TAMPA

News/Talk

WHPT 5.3 – 3.6, #6 – #9

WFLA 3.4 – 3.5, #13 – #11

News

Business news WHNZ DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

WBTP-HD2 Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WDAE 2.2 – 1.6, #16 – #18 (Rays)

Public Radio News/Talk

WUSF 2.1 – 2.4, #18 – #16

WUSF Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

WMNF-HD3 Stream .1 – DNA, #31 – DNA 

Note: News/talk WHPT’s -1.7 (5.3 – 3.6) is Tampa’s largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 decrease.

DENVER 

News/Talk

KOA 2.6 – 2.6, #17 – #14 (Colorado Rockies)

KHOW 1.2 – 1.3, #23 – #21

KDFD 1.3 – 1.2, #22 – #22

News

None

Sports Talk

KKFN 2.8 – 1.8, #13 – #18

KKSE-FM 3.4 – 1.1, #12 – #23

KAMP .1 – .1, #35 – #32

KEPN .1 – DNA, #35 – DNA

KKSE-AM DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

KCFR 2.7 – 3.0, #16 – #13

KUNC 1.2 – 1.0, #23 – #26

KRCC DNA – .1, DNA – #32  

Note: Sports talk KKSE-FM’s -2.3 (3.4 – 1.1) is the largest (6+) May 2024 – June 2024 decrease by any station in the 24 PPM-markets analyzed thus far.

BALTIMORE

News/Talk

WBAL 3.6 – 3.0, #11 – #12 (Orioles)

WCBM 1.8 – 2.0, #14 – #14

News

WTOP & WTLP  1.2 – 1.0,  #17 – #17

Business News WDCH  .6 – .5,  #20 – #22

WQLL Black Information Network DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Sports Talk

WJZ-FM 3.6 – 3.3, #11 – #11

WJZ-AM .1 – .1, #28 – #26

WJZ-FM Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA

Public Radio News/Talk

WYPR 5.2 – 3.6, #6 – #10

WYPR HD2 Stream DNA – DNA, DNA – DNA 

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk

KMOX 4.7 – 4.2, #10 – #11 (Cardinals)

KTLK-FM 1.3 – 1.7, #18 – #16

KFTK 1.7 – 1.6, #17 – #17

KMOX Stream .6 – 1.0, #20 – #19 (Cardinals)

KFTK Stream .1 – .1, #28 – #29

News

KATZ-FM HD2 Black Information Network .1 – .1, #28 – #29

Sports Talk

WXOS 3.1 – 3.0, #14 – #14

Public Radio News/Talk

KWMU 5.0 – 4.9, #9 – #9

Up next: June 2024 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

Joe Kelley Joins KRLD, Dallas; Mike Rogers Moves to Middays

Audacy announces lineup changes at all-news KRLD-AM, Dallas “NewsRadio 1080.” After serving for 19 years with Cox Media Group, most recently as host of the morning program on WDBO, Orlando, Joe Kelleyim is named the new host of “The KRLD Morning News.” Incumbent morning host Mike Rogers moves to the 10:00 am to 12:00 noon daypart. Both moves take effect on July 22. Audacy news & talk format VP and KRLD brand manager Drew Anderssen imsays, “We’re proud to unveil the next phase of KRLD’s new-look lineup by adding Joe Kelley and moving local favorite Mike Rogers to middays. Mike has resonated with our listeners for over three decades, and we have no doubt he will continue to provide informative, relevant content to them in middays. We’re equally excited to welcome Joe Kelley, who, with his rich background in news and multi-platform content distribution, will bring a wealth of experience and passion to our morning news.” Kelley comments, “I am honored to join the esteemed KRLD brand and embrace the responsibility of upholding the legacy crafted by generations of broadcasters. Returning to Texas – a place that resonates with familiarity and warmth – fills me with great enthusiasm. I look forward to further elevating KRLD’s prominence in the North Texas community.”

Industry News

Donald Trump Addresses Joe Biden, His VP Candidate, and More on Brian Kilmeade Show

In his first major appearance on talk radio since the presidential debate on June 27, Donald Trump spoke with Brian Kilmeade on his nationally syndicated FOX News Radio program today (7/10). During the half-imhour appearance, Trump did not bring up the matter of Joe Biden’s health but stated that he didn’t care whether Biden stays in the race as the Democratic nominee or not, believing that he has the voter support to beat any Democrat because they all share the same “radical lunatic” policies. He also told Kilmeade that he plans to announce his vice-presidential candidate pick just before next week’s Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. When asked if the pick would be influenced by whether or not Biden drops out of the race, Trump responded, “No” adding, VP Kamala Harris is “a disaster.” Kilmeade pressed the former president on a number of issues including NATO, immigration, and the economy. Trump stated that his good relationship with Putin is “a good thing” because it’ll keep us out of the growing danger of World War III and the only reason NATO members are now willing to pay their fair share of costs is because they feel threatened by the increased danger of war that has been heightened by the policies of Biden.  You can hear the interview here.

Industry News

“New Jersey 101.5” Revises Disclaimer on Bill Spadea Show

The New Jersey Globe reports that Townsquare Media’s WKXW-FM, Trenton “New Jersey 101.5” is playing a revised disclaimer during morning host Bill Spadea’s program in light of his declared candidacy for governor of New Jersey in 2025. This comes after the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commissionim held a hearing to consider whether Spadea’s being on the air after declaring his candidacy constitutes an in-kind contribution to his campaign that violates the states campaign finance laws. While the ELEC ruled Spadea can remain on the air, it required that steps be taken to avoid violating the laws. The ELEC was concerned with the disclaimer that had been airing that mentioned Spadea’s name four times. The new disclaimer is as follows: “Townsquare Media, and New Jersey 101.5 do not support, endorse, advocate, encourage, fund, or appeal for the election or defeat of any candidates for public office. Townsquare Media, its affiliates, executives, officers, and employees, including New Jersey 101.5 did not request, suggest, invite or encourage any of its employees to seek public office.  Townsquare Media and New Jersey 101.5 have implemented parameters, restrictions and guidelines on the content of this broadcast to eliminate the broadcast of any content endorsing, supporting, encouraging, advocating, promoting, or appealing for the nomination, election or defeat of any candidates for public office.” See the story here.