Tag: Talkers Magazine

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories for Week of March 6 – 10

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The relations between the U.S., China, and Russia as China threatens the U.S. for trying to “encircle and contain” it while the U.S. watches China cozy up to Vladimir Putin and refuse to condemn Russia’s aggression in Ukraine was the most-talked-about story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the use of security video from the U.S. Capitol by FOX News personality Tucker Carlson to downplay the events of January 6, followed by the state of the U.S. economy and the Fed’s warning that interest rates will continue to be pushed up at #3. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed in news/talk media this week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (3/8) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

FOX News host Tucker Carlson’s airing January 6 video attempting to prove what happened at the Capitol was “mostly peaceful”; a House committee begins hearings in which it suggests an investigation into the lab leak theory of COVID-19’s origins should be investigated; U.S.-China relations as China accuses the U.S. of trying to “encircle and suppress” China’s progress; Russia’s intensifying fighting to take the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut; President Joe Biden’s plan to present his budget proposal including tax hikes that would cut the federal deficit by $3 trillion; two Americans are killed in Mexico traveling for a medical procedure; Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell is hospitalized after falling; and Central and Northern California prepare for another powerful snow and rain storm were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (3/7) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Fed chair Jerome Powell tells the Senate Banking Committee the Fed is likely to raise interest rates much higher to curb inflation; China’s foreign minister Qin Gang threatens the U.S. with “conflict and confrontation” for trying to “encircle and suppress” China; the proposed ban on TikTok gains support from the White House; two Americans are dead after being kidnapped by Mexican drug gangs; Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and China’s cozying up to Vladimir Putin; the protests in Paris over the raising of the retirement age; controversy over FOX News’ Tucker Carlson portraying January 6 as a “mostly peaceful” event; and California’s severe weather threat changes from snow to floods were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (3/6) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

China’s new foreign minister Qin Gang defends China’s relationship with Russia and warns the U.S. about interfering; Russia’s efforts to take the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut; former Vice President Mike Pence asks a judge to block a subpoena for his January 6 testimony; the battle in Congress over the U.S.’s debt ceiling; the U.S. economy and Fed chair Jerome Powell’s scheduled testimony today (3/7) before the Senate Banking Committee; the Biden administration’s immigration policies and its consideration of reinstating the detention of migrants; four Americans are kidnapped in Mexico by an armed gang; the severe winter weather hitting California; and tennis star Novak Djokovic seeks a COVID vaccine exemption to play in the U.S. were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories Over the Weekend

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Former President Donald Trump speaks at CPAC; the race for the GOP nomination in ’24; U.S.-China relations and warnings from the West that China should not assist Russia in its invasion of Ukraine; President Joe Biden visits Selma, Alabama and promotes voting rights legislation; a second Norfolk Southern train derailment happens this time in Springfield, Ohio; Russia’s battle to take control of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut; the U.S. Energy Department’s conclusion that COVID-19 was the result of a Chinese lab leak; the testimony from FOX News executives and personalities in the Dominion Voting Systems lawsuit; and Lynyrd Skynyrd guitarist Gary Rossington dies were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories for February 27 – March 3

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, the UN General Assembly vote condemning the invasion and Vladimir Putin’s threats against the West combined as the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was U.S.-China relations in the wake of the spy balloon matter and China’s cozying up to Russia, followed by the U.S. Energy Department concluding that COVID-19 was the result of a Chinese lab leak 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 magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (3/1) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Attorney General Merrick Garland testifies before the Senate Judiciary oversight committee; Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot loses reelection bid as crime in the city becomes chief election issue; the U.S. Energy Department’s conclusion that COVID was the result of a Chinese lab leak; the G-20 meeting in New Delhi, India; Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine; Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko visits Xi Jinping in Beijing; testimony from the Dominion Voting Systems suit against FOX News; the numerous legal issues facing former President Donald Trump; the deadly Greek high-speed train crash; and Harry and Meghan are ousted from Frogmore Cottage by King Charles III were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (2/28) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The Supreme Court hears arguments over the constitutionality of President Joe Biden’s student debt forgiveness plan; the escalating military action in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Vladimir Putin’s threats against the West; Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko meets with Xi Jinping in Beijing; Lori Lightfoot loses reelection bid as mayor of Chicago after criticism over city’s crime spike; the U.S. Energy Department’s conclusion that COVID was likely the result of a Chinese lab leak; Attorney General Merrick Garland goes before a Senate Judiciary Committee oversight hearing today (3/1); the legal battles facing former President Donald Trump; and the record snow and rain hitting California were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (2/27) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The U.S. Energy Department’s conclusion that the cause of COVID was likely a lab leak and renewed speculation the Chinese government knew about it; Ron DeSantis’ takeover of the Disney district; the Supreme Court hears arguments over President Joe Biden’s student debt relief program; the intensifying fighting in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine; House Speaker Kevin McCarthy’s issuing January 6 footage to FOX News Channel’s Tucker Carlson; the legal battles facing former President Donald Trump; the aftermath of the toxic train wreck in East Palestine, Ohio; the record snowfall in California and the tornadoes that swept through Oklahoma; the released testimony from the Dominion-FOX News lawsuit; and this week’s CPAC taking place in Maryland were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Round Four of January PPMs Released

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Barry Farber - usedThe fourth of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s January 2023 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Austin, Raleigh, Indianapolis, Milwaukee, Nashville, Providence, Norfolk, Jacksonville, West Palm Beach, Greensboro, Memphis, and Hartford. Nielsen’s January 2023 sweep covered January 5 – February 1. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. Urban One’s news/talk WIBC-FM, Indianapolis comes back from the Holiday survey with a 1.5 share increase to post a 7.2 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) but remains ranked #3. In Milwaukee, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WISN-AM adds eight-tenths to finish the survey with a 9.6 share that lifts it to the #1 rank, while Good Karma Brands’ crosstown news/talk WTMJ-AM adds 1.3 shares to wrap the survey with a 7.5 share but remains anchored in the #5 spot. In Nashville, Cumulus Media’s news/talk WWTN-FM tacks on 1.3 shares to finish with a 6.2 share, good for the #6 rank, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk WLAC-AM is off two-tenths, finishing with a 1.0 share and the #19 rank. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways here.

Industry News

The Weekend’s Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and the UN General Assembly votes calling for an end to the war; the U.S. Energy Department concludes COVID outbreak was likely caused by lab leak; the blowback against “Dilbert” creator Scott Adams after his tirade calling Black Americans a “hate group”; the snowy weather hitting Southern California; the aftermath of the toxic train wreck in East Palestine, Ohio; the GOP race for the nomination in ’24; the legal battles facing former President Donald Trump; President Joe Biden’s student loan forgiveness plan goes before the Supreme Court this week; and Sunday evening’s SAG Awards ceremony were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Features

January 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Four

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Barry Farber - usedJanuary 2023 PPM Data – Information for the January 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 January 2023 sweep covered January 5 – February 1.

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 “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 (6+).

 AUSTIN

News/Talk: Waterloo Media Group’s KLBJ-AM “News Radio” 4.4 – 5.1, +.7, repeats in fifth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Genuine Austin Radio-owned KTXX “The Horn” flat at 2.1, #17 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Texas’ KUT 5.2 – 5.3, +.1, continues at #4

Number One 6+: Waterloo Media Group adult hits KBPA, first month, 8.8 – 9.9, +1.1

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: adult hits KBPA (+1.1)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KKMJ (-4.6)

RALEIGH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKK “106.1 FM Talk” 10.4 – 8.3, -1.1, repeats in the runner-up slot

News: Curtis Media Group-owned WPTF “News Radio 680” 1.8, #16 (did not appear in the “Holiday” 2022 report)

Sports Talk: Capitol Broadcasting’s WCMC-FM “99.9 FM The Fan” (Carolina Hurricanes) 3.9 – 3.1, -.8, #8 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 9.2 – 8.3, -.9, fourth to second

Number One 6+: Urban One urban AC WFXC, first month, 9.6 – 8.5, -1.1

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: country WNCB and contemporary Christian WCCE (+.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WRAL (-6.3)

INDIANAPOLIS

News/Talk: Urban One’s WIBC “93.1 FM Indy’s Mobile News” 5.7 – 7.2, +1.5, locked in third-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One-owned WIBC-HD2 “The Fan” (Colts) 3.3 – 3.0, -.3, repeats at #12

iHeartMedia’s WNDE “Fox Sports 1260” .4 – .7, +.3, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Broadcasting-owned WFYI 4.0 – 4.3, +.3, ninth to tenth

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies WJJK, first month, 7.9 – 10.4, +2.5

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WJJK (+2.5)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WYXB (-7.8)

MILWAUKEE

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WISN “News Talk 1130” 8.8 – 9.6, +.8 third to first

Good Karma Brands-owned WTMJ “Wisconsin’s Radio Station” (Bucks) 6.2 – 7.5, +1.3, anchored in fifth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRNW “97.3 The Game” (Green Bay Packers) 1.6 – 1.7, +.1, repeats at #15

Good Karma Brands-owned WKTI “ESPN Milwaukee” 1.0 – 1.1, +.1, #17 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Wisconsin-owned WUWM 3.3 – 4.5, +1.2, #11 to #7

Wisconsin Educational Communications Board’s WHAD .6 – 1.1, +.5, #21 to #16

Number One 6+: news/talk WISN, first month, 8.8 – 9.6, +.8

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: country WMIL (+2.1)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLDB (-3.4)

NASHVILLE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WWTN “Super Talk 99.7” 4.9 – 6.2, +1.3, seventh to sixth

iHeartMedia-owned WLAC “Talk Radio 1510” 1.2 – 1.0, -.2, #17 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media’s WGFX “104.5 The Zone” (Tennessee Titans) 6.6 – 5.5, -1.1, fourth to seventh

Cromwell Radio Group-owned WPRT “102.5 The Game” (Predators) 1.1 – 1.2, +.1, repeats at #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Nashville Public Radio’s WPLN-FM 2.6 – 3.8, +1.2, #13 to #10

Number One 6+: Midwest Communications adult hits WCJK, first month, 8.1 – 9.3, +1.2

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WUBT (+1.5)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WJXA (-6.9)

PROVIDENCE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WPRO-AM & WEAN “News Talk 630 AM & 99.7 FM” 4.5 – 5.0, +.5, repeats in seventh-place

iHeartMedia-owned WHJJ “News Radio 920” .5 – .4, -.1, #18 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group-owned WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Bruins, Celtics, New England Patriots) 4.0 – 4.2, +2, locked in eighth-place

Audacy’s WVEI “Sports Radio 103.7” 2.2 – 2.5, +.3, #11 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.3 – 3.2, -.1, continues in ninth-place

Rhode Island Public Radio’s WNPN flat at 2.6, #10 to #11

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media adult contemporary WWLI, fourth month in succession, 16.9 – 10.5, -6.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WWBB (+1.5)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WWLI (-6.4)

NORFOLK

News/Talk: Sinclair’s WNIS “News Talk AM 790” flat at 2.8, #11 to #13

News: iHeartMedia-owned WNOH “BIN 105.3 Because Truth Matters” .8 – 1.3, +.5, repeats at #20

Sports Talk: Max Broadcast Group’s WVSP “94.1 ESPN” 1.6 – 1.8, +.2, #17 to #16

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Audacy urban AC WVKL, first month, 9.0 – 10.1, +1.1

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic rock WAFX (+2.5)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WWDE (-6.6)

JACKSONVILLE

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WOKV-FM “104.5 Jacksonville’s News & Talk” 6.1 – 7.8 +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 2.8 – 3.0, +.2, #11 to #13

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia country WQIK, first month, 7.1 – 10.0, +2.9

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: country WQIK (+2.9)*

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WEJZ (-10.0)**

*Represents the largest “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

**Represents the largest “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

WEST PALM BEACH

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WJNO “News Radio 1290” 1.1 – 1.7, +.6, #13 to #11 and cluster-mate WZZR “92.1 Real Radio” flat at 1.7, #10 to #11

Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WFTL “News Talk 850” 1.0 -.9, -.1, #15 to #14

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WMEN “Fox Sports 640 AM South Florida” (Florida Panthers) 1.1 – .9, -.2, #13 to #14

iHeartMedia-owned WBZT “Sports Radio 1230 The Gambler” unchanged at .2, #19 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Dade County School Board’s WLRN 3.2 – 3.1, -.1, repeats in seventh-place and the stream of co-owned WLRN-HD2 .2, #18 (unlisted in “Holiday” 2022)

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC WRMF, first month, 7.6 – 8.2, +.6

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian WAYF (+1.1)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WOLL (-1.2)

GREENSBORO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WPTI “News Talk 94.5” 3.2 – 3.9, +.7, locked in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Wake Forest University’s WFDD 2.6 – 2.8, +.2, ninth to tenth

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill-owned WUNC 1.3 – 1.9, +.6, #13 to #14

Number One 6+: Audacy adult hits WSMW, first month, 9.8 – 12.2, +2.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: adult hits WSMW (+2.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WMAG (-9.5)

MEMPHIS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WREC “News Talk 600 AM” 2.6 – 3.9, +1.3, #13 to #8

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WMFS “Sports Radio 92.9” (Grizzlies) 3.6 – 3.9, +.3, ninth to eighth and WFMS’ internet stream flat at .4, #21 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: Mid-South Public Communications-owned WKNO 1.1 – 1.4, +.3, #17 to #15

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media urban-rhythmic oldies WRBO, 14th successive month, 13.2 – 11.8, -1.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: gospel WHAL (+1.3)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WRVR (-3.5)

HARTFORD

News/Talk: Audacy’s WTIC-AM “News Talk 1080” flat at 5.1, sixth to eighth

Red Wolf Broadcasting-owned WDRC-AM “The Talk of Connecticut” steady at 1.0, #17 to #16

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WUCS “97.9 ESPN” unchanged at 2.0, #13 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: Connecticut Educational Communications-owned WNPR flat at 5.7, fifth to seventh

New England Public Media’s WFCR steady at .4, #18 to #19 and WFCR’s internet stream .2 – .4, +.2, #20 to #19

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WRCH, 36th month in a row, 15.8 – 10.9, -4.9

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: CHR WKSS (+2.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WRCH (-4.9)

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

Industry News

Round Three of January PPMs Released

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Barry Farber - usedThe third of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s January 2023 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. Nielsen’s January 2023 sweep covered January 5 – February 1. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeways from this group of markets. In Portland, Alpha Media’s news/talk KXL-FM rises six-tenths to finish the survey with a 6.6 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) that lifts it to the #4 rank, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk KEX is up eight-tenths for a 3.0 share finish good for the #10 rank. Urban One’s news/talk WBT-AM/FM, Charlotte adds six-tenths to finish the sweep with a 4.3 share that boosts it to the #8 rank. In San Antonio, iHeartMedia’s news/talk WOAI rises nine-tenths for a 3.5 share finish that puts it in the #9 position, while Alpha Media’s crosstown news/talk KTSA adds seven-tenths to finish with a 3.2 share good for the #13 rank. iHeartMedia’s news/talk KNRS-AM/FM, Salt Lake City grows 1.5 shares to finish with a 5.9 share that lifts it to the #3 rank, while Bonneville’s crosstown news/talk KSL-AM/FM rises nine-tenths to finish the survey with a 5.5 share as it remains ranked #5. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways here.

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories for Week of February 20-24

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

President Joe Biden’s trip to Europe and his surprise journey to Ukraine was the most-talked-about story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was Russia’s continuing invasion of Ukraine, Vladimir Putin’s threats against the West and his exiting the nuclear arms treaty, followed by the strained relations between the U.S. and China over China’s spy program and its growing alliance with Russia 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 magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Features

January 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Three

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Barry Farber - usedJanuary 2023 PPM Data – Information for the January 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 January 2023 sweep covered January 5 – February 1.

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 “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 (6+).

PORTLAND

News/Talk: Alpha Media’s KXL “FM 101 News” 6.0 – 6.6, +.6, fifth to fourth

iHeartMedia-owned KEX “News Radio 1190” 2.2 – 3.0, +.8, #16 to #10

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Oregon Public Broadcasting’s KOPB 6.7 – 7.9, +1.2, repeats in third-place and KOPB’s internet stream 1.4 – 1.7, +.3, continues at #20

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KKCW, third month in a row, 16.7 – 9.2, -7.5

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: triple A KINK (+1.9)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KKCW (-7.5)

CHARLOTTE

News/Talk: Urban One-owned WBT AM & WBT-FM “Charlotte’s News Talk” (Carolina Panthers) 3.7 – 4.3, +.6, tenth to eighth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Urban One’s WFNZ-FM “Sports Radio 92.7” (Hornets) 2.8 – 3.1, +.3, #13 to #14

Public Radio News/Talk: University Radio Foundation’s WFAE 3.5 – 3.3, -.2, flat at #12

South Carolina Educational Television Commission-owned WNSC .3 – .6, +.3 steady at #19

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group urban AC WBAV, first month, 7.4 – 8.3, +.9

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: urban AC WBAV and urban-rhythmic oldies WOSF (+.9)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WKQC (-4.4)

SAN ANTONIO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WOAI “News Radio 1200” (Spurs) 2.6 – 3.5, +.9, #13 to #9

Alpha Media-owned KTSA “Stay Connected” 2.5 – 3.2, +.7, #14 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Texas Public Radio’s KSTX 1.7 – 2.2, +.5, #19 to #16

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies KONO-FM, first month, 8.1 – 7.2, -.9

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: CHR KXXM (+1.8)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KQXT (-8.5)

SACRAMENTO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM “News 1530 AM & 93.1 FM” 8.8 – 10.9, +2.1, second to first and cluster-mate KSTE-AM “Talk 650” 3.2 – 3.8, +.6, repeats in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KHTK “Sacramento Sports 1140” (Kings) 1.5 – 1.6, +.1, #19 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Capital Public Radio-owned KXJZ 2.9 – 3.9, +1.0, #12 to #7

Number One 6+: news/talk KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM, first month, 8.8 – 10.9, +2.1

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: news/talk KFBK-AM & KFBK-FM (+2.1)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KYMX (-7.7)

PITTSBURGH

News/Talk: Audacy’s KDKA-AM “News Radio 1020 AM” 2.8 – 3.5, +.7, #13 to #12 and KDKA-AM’s internet stream .7 – 1.1, +.4, repeats at #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KDKA-FM “93.7 The Fan All Sports All The Time” 5.4 – 6.2, +.8, fifth to fourth and KDKA-FM’s internet stream .5 – .6, +.1, #21 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: Pittsburgh Community Broadcasting’s WESA 3.1 – 4.5, +1.4, #11 to #8

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WWSW, second month in a row, 13.3 – 9.9, -3.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: adult hits WRRK (+2.2)*

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WSHH (-4.5)

*Represents the largest “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

SALT LAKE CITY

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KNRS-AM & KNRS-FM “Talk Radio” 4.4 – 5.9, +1.5, sixth to third

Bonneville-owned KSL “News Radio 102.7 FM & 1160 AM” 4.6 – 5.5, +.9, repeats in fifth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Utah’s KUER 2.1 – 3.1, +1.0, #17 to #14

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KSFI, third straight month, 20.0 – 9.9, -10.1

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: alternative KXRK (+1.8)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease:  adult contemporary KSFI (-10.1)**

**Represents the largest “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

LAS VEGAS

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KDWN “The Talk Of Las Vegas” 2.3 – 3.0, +.7, #16 to #13

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Nevada Public Radio’s KNPR 1.4 – 1.7, +.3, #22 to #20

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KSNE, fourth successive month, 14.1 – 7.8, -6.3

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: regional Mexican KYLI (+1.3)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KSNE (-6.3)

ORLANDO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTKS “Real Radio 104.1” 5.1 – 6.1, +1.0, seventh to fifth

Cox Media Group-owned WDBO “Orlando’s News Talk” 4.6 – 4.7, +.1, repeats in eighth-place

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WYGM “96.9 The Game” (Magic) .9 – 1.2, +.3, #20 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Community Connections-owned WMFE 1.6 – 2.4, +.8, #17 to #16

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WMGF, fourth consecutive month, 13.1 – 8.2, -4.9

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: alternative WQMP (+1.8)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WMGF (-4.9)

CINCINNATI

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WLW “700 Cincinnati’s News Radio” (Bengals) 10.7 – 12.3, +1.6, #1 and cluster-mate WKRC “55 KRC The Talk Station” 2.8 – 3.8, +1.0, #13 to #9

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia’s WCKY “ESPN 1530” (Bengals) 2.6 – 3.1, +.5, #14 to #11

Public Radio News/Talk: Cincinnati Public Radio’s WVXU 5.0 – 4.8, -.2, sixth to fifth

Number One 6+: news/talk WLW, 12th consecutive month, 10.7 – 12.3, +1.6

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: news/talk WLW (+1.6)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WRRM (-4.6)

CLEVELAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WTAM “News Radio 1100” (Cavaliers) 4.6 – 5.0, +.4, eighth to tenth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WKRK “Sports Radio 92.3 The Fan” (Browns) 6.0 – 5.5, -.5, sixth to eighth and WKRK’s internet stream 1.2 – 1.6, +.4, #16 to #15

Public Radio News/Talk: Kent State University-owned WKSU flat at 4.2, repeats at #11

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies WMJI, third month in a row, 14.1 – 11.1, -3.0

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: urban contemporary WENZ (+2.1)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WDOK (-3.7)

KANSAS CITY

News/Talk: Audacy-owned KMBZ-FM “98.1 FM News, Traffic, Weather” 3.2 – 3.6, +.4, remains at #11 and cluster-mate KMBZ-AM “Talk 980 AM” flat at 1.4, locked at #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s KCSP “Sports Radio 610 Our Teams, Our Town” 2.5 – 3.2, +.7, #15 to #13

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KCUR 4.4 – 4.1, -.3, sixth to seventh

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media classic hits-oldies KCMO-FM, first month, flat at 7.9

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: urban contemporary KPRS (+1.2)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KCKC (-4.4)

COLUMBUS

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WTVN “News Radio 610” 5.3 – 7.0, +1.7, eighth to fourth   

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Tegna-owned WBNS-FM “97.1 FM The Fan” (Blue Jackets) 8.0 – 8.7, +.7, anchored in the runner-up slot

Public Radio News/Talk: Ohio State University’s WOSU 5.9 – 7.2, +1.3, seventh to third

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia country WCOL, third straight month, 9.2 – 9.5, +.3

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: news/talk WTVN (+1.7)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult hits WODC (-3.0)

Up next: January 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. 

Industry News

Round Two of January PPMs Released

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Barry Farber - usedThe second of four rounds of ratings information from Nielsen Audio’s January 2023 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including Washington, Boston, Miami, Seattle, Detroit, Phoenix, Minneapolis, San Diego, Tampa, Denver, Baltimore, and St. Louis. Nielsen’s January 2023 sweep covered January 5 – February 1. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways from this group of markets. In Washington, DC, Cumulus Media news/talk WMAL-FM adds four-tenths for a 3.8 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) finish and remains ranked #7, while Hubbard Broadcasting’s crosstown all news WTOP-FM is up eight-tenths for a 8.6 share finish that lifts it to the #2 rank. iHeartMedia’s news/talk WRKO rises nine-tenths to wrap the survey with a 3.7 share that boosts it to the #11 spot as sister all-news WBZ-AM jumps half a share to finish with a 5.3 share good for the #5 rank. In Seattle, Bonneville’s news/talk KIRO-FM tacks on six-tenths to finish with a 6.1 share and jumps to the #2 rank, while Lotus Communications’ crosstown all-news combo KNWN-AM/FM is flat at 5.5, and repeats in the #3 rank. See Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (2/22) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The Russia-Ukraine war, Vladimir Putin’s recent threat against the West, and China’s diplomatic visit to Moscow; the Supreme Court’s hearing of arguments regarding the liabilities of social media platforms for what users post; Marjorie Taylor Greene’s “national divorce” suggestion; the race for the GOP nomination for president in ’24; the toxic train wreck in Ohio and criticism of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg’s handling of it; Wednesday’s deadly Orlando shooting spree that left three dead; the attacks between Palestinians in Gaza and forces in southern Israel; and the massive winter storm affecting much of the Northern U.S. were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Features

January 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part Two

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Barry Farber - usedJanuary 2023 PPM Data – Information for the January 2023 sweep has been released for Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

Nielsen Audio’s January 2023 sweep covered January 5 – February 1.

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 “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 (6+).

WASHINGTON, DC

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” 3.4 – 3.8, +.4, repeats in seventh-place

News: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned WTOP & WTLP “Washington’s Top News” 7.8 – 8.6, +.8, third to the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJFK-FM “106.7 The Fan” (Capitals) 2.7 – 3.1, +.4, #14 to #10 and WJFK-FM’s internet stream 1.0 – .9, -.1, flat at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: American University-owned WAMU 11.3 – 12.9, +1.6, #1

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk WAMU, 14th month in succession, 11.3 – 12.9, +1.6

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian WGTS (+1.7)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WASH (-4.5)

BOSTON

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s WRKO “AM 680 The Voice Of Boston” 2.8 – 3.7, +.9, #13 to #11

News – Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WBZ-AM “News Radio 1030” 4.8 – 5.3, +.5, sixth to fifth

Sports Talk: Beasley Media Group’s WBZ-FM “98.5 The Sports Hub” (Celtics, Bruins, and New England Patriots) 8.0 – 8.8, +.8, second to first

Audacy-owned WEEI-FM “93.7 Boston’s Sports Station” 4.6 – 3.9, -.7, seventh to tenth

Public Radio News/Talk: Boston University’s WBUR 4.6 – 4.5, -.1, seventh to sixth

WGBH Educational Foundation-owned WGBH 3.4 – 3.5, +.1, #9 to #12

Number One 6+: sports talk WBZ-FM, first month, 8.0 – 8.8, +.8

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: rhythmic hot AC WBQT (+1.2)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WMJX (-8.3)

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 3.1 – 2.1, -1.0, #13 to #8

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WFEZ, first month, 7.9 – 8.9, +1.0

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: adult contemporary WFEZ (+1.0)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: public radio news/talk WLRN (-1.0)

SEATTLE

News/Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-FM “97.3 FM” (Seahawks) 5.5 – 6.1, +.6, third to second

News: Lotus Communications’ KNWN-AM & KNWN-FM “Northwest News Radio” flat at 5.5, repeats in third-place

Sports Talk: Bonneville-owned KIRO-AM “710 AM ESPN Seattle” (Seahawks) 3.5 – 3.0, -.5, #10 to #15

iHeartMedia’s KJR-FM “93.3 FM Seattle’s Sports Leader” 1.9 – 2.6, +.7, #21 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Northwest Public Radio’s KUOW flat at 4.9, locked in sixth-place

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia classic hits-oldies KJEB, first month, 4.7 – 6.3, +1.6

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies KJEB (+1.6)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KRWM (-6.8)

DETROIT

News/Talk: Cumulus Media’s WJR “News Talk 760 AM” 2.3 – 2.5, +.2, #15 to #16

News: Audacy-owned WWJ News Radio 950” (Pistons) 4.5 – 4.6, +.1, seventh to eighth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WXYT-FM “97.1 The Ticket” (Red Wings and Lions) 7.6 – 6.8, -.8, second to third and WXYT-FM’s internet stream 2.2 – 1.9, -.3, #16 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Michigan-owned WUOM 2.2 – 2.7, +.5, #16 to #15

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WNIC, third month in a row, 15.7 – 7.7, -8.0

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic rock WCSX and country WYCD (+1.7)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WNIC (-8.0)

PHOENIX

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFYI “News Talk 550” 3.3 – 3.2, -.1, eighth to tenth

Bonneville-owned KTAR-FM “News 92.3 FM” (Sun and Arizona Cardinals) 1.7 – 2.4, +.7, #22 to #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KMVP-FM “98.7 Arizona’s Sports Station” (Sun) 1.6 – 2.4, +.8, #23 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Maricopa County Community College-owned KJZZ 8.1 – 8.0, -.1, second to first

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KJZZ, first month, 8.1 – 8.0, -.1

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: rhythmic CHR KALV (+2.2)*

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KESZ (-9.5)**

*Represents a tie for the largest “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

**Represents the largest “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MINNEAPOLIS

News/Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting-owned KTMY “My Talk 107.1” flat at 3.1, anchored at #14

Audacy’s WCCO “News Talk 830” (Minnesota Timberwolves) 3.7 – 3.0, -.7, #12 to #15

iHeartMedia’s KTLK-AM “Twin Cities News Talk AM 1130” 2.0 – 1.7, -.3, flat at #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned KFXN “FM 100.3 K-Fan” (Minnesota Wild, Minnesota Vikings) 7.5 – 7.1, -.4, locked in second-place

Public Radio News/Talk: Minnesota Public Radio’s KNOW 6.3 – 6.5, +.2, fourth to fifth

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting hot AC KSTP-FM, first month, 5.5 – 7.2, +1.7

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: CHR KDWB (+1.9)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: classic hits-oldies KQQL (-8.3)

SAN DIEGO

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KOGO “News Radio 600” 5.4 – 6.1, +.7, fifth to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned KWFN “97.3 The Fan” .8 – 1.9, +1.1, #21 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: San Diego State University’s KPBS 5.5 – 6.9, +1.4, fourth to first

Number One 6+: public radio news/talk KPBS, first month, 5.5 – 6.9, +1.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: public radio news/talk KPBS and classic rock KGB-FM (+1.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KYXY (-7.9)

TAMPA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group’s WHPT “102.5 The Bone – Real, Raw, Radio” (Lightning) 3.7 – 4.5, +.8, #12 to #9

iHeartMedia-owned WFLA “News Radio 970” 2.2 – 2.4, +.2, repeats at #17

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WDAE “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio” 1.5 – 1.8, +.3, locked at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of South Florida’s WUSF 2.6 – 2.8, +.2, unchanged at #15

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group adult contemporary WDUV, 18th month in a row, 11.4 – 7.8, -3.6

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: contemporary Christian WCIE; classic hits-oldies WRBQ; and news/talk WHPT (+.8)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WDUV (-3.6)

DENVER

News/Talk: In the iHeartMedia cluster, KOA “News Radio 850” (Broncos) 2.4 – 3.0, +.6, #16 to #15; KHOW “Talk Radio 630” 1.5 – 1.9, +.4, #20 to #18; and KDFD “Freedom 93.7” 1.4 – 1.6, +.2, #21 to #20

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Bonneville’s KKFN “104.3 The Fan” (Nuggets) 4.0 – 4.7, +.7, seventh to sixth

Public Radio News/Talk: Colorado Public Radio-owned KCFR 3.6 – 4.7, +1.1, #11 to #6

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOSI, fourth consecutive month, 14.4 – 6.2, -8.2

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: hot AC KALC (+2.1)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KOSI (-8.2)

BALTIMORE

News/Talk: Hearst Television’s WBAL “News Radio 1090 AM & 101.5 FM” (Ravens) 3.6 – 3.9, +.3, tenth to eighth

WCBM Maryland-owned WCBM “Talk Radio AM 680” 1.6 – 1.7, +.1, #17 to #18

Cumulus Media-owned WMAL “105.9 FM – Where Washington Comes To Talk” .6 – 1.2, +.6, #20 to #19

News: Audacy-owned business news WDCH “Bloomberg 99.1 FM”.6 – .7, +.1, steady at #20

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WJZ-FM “Baltimore Sports Radio 105.7 The Fan” 4.3 – 5.4, +1.1, remains in sixth-place

Public Radio News/Talk: Your Public Radio Corporation-owned WYPR 2.9 – 3.4, +.5, #12 to #10

Number One 6+: Audacy adult contemporary WLIF, sixth consecutive month, 14.5 – 8.4, -6.1

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: CHR WWMX (+2.2)*

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLIF (-6.1)

*Represents a tie for the largest “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

ST. LOUIS

News/Talk: Audacy’s KMOX “The Voice Of St. Louis” 4.4 – 5.2, +.8, repeats in ninth-place and cluster-mate KFTK “Talk 97.1 FM” 1.4 – 1.8, +.4, steady at #17

iHeartMedia-owned KTLK-FM “104.9 The Patriot” .5 – .7, +.2, #24 to #19

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Hubbard Broadcasting’s WXOS “101 ESPN” (Blues) 3.7 – 3.5, -.2, #11 to #12

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Missouri-owned KWMU 3.6 – 4.4, +.8, #13 to #11

Number One 6+: Hubbard Broadcasting adult hits WARH, first month, 8.9 – 10.2, +1.3

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies KLOU (+1.6)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KEZK (-7.7)

Up next: January 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

Round One of January PPMs Released

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The first of four rounds of ratings data from Nielsen Audio’s January 2023 PPM survey has been released for 12 markets including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, San Jose, and Middlesex-Somerset-Union (New Jersey). Nielsen’s January 2023 sweep covered January 5 – February 1. Today, TALKERS magazine managing editor Mike Kinosian presents his Ratings Takeaways for this group of markets. In New York, Red Apple Media news/talk WABC-AM/WLIR-FM rises eight-tenths for a 3.9 share (weekly, 6+ AQH share) that lifts it to the #9 rank, while iHeartMedia’s crosstown news/talk WOR is up six-tenths for a 1.7 share finish good for the #19 rank. iHeartMedia’s news/talk KFI, Los Angeles is off three-tenths, finishing with a 4.1 share and the #6 rank, while Audacy’s crosstown all-news KNX-FM tacks on three-tenths to wrap the survey with a 2.8 share good for the #9 rank. In Chicago, Nexstar Media Group’s news/talk WGN-AM adds six-tenths for a 3.4 share and the #9 rank, while Audacy’s crosstown all-news WBBM-AM/WCFS-FM dips three-tenths for a 4.5 share finish and the #4 rank. Read Mike Kinosian’s complete Ratings Takeaways here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (2/21) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

President Joe Biden’s trip to Europe, his visit to Ukraine and Vladimir Putin’s renewed antipathy toward the West; U.S.-China relations as a top Chinese diplomat meets with Vladimir Putin; the Supreme Court hears arguments about Section 230 that gives immunity to digital platform owners from content posted by users; the Georgia grand jury indictment recommendations in the 2022 election results case; the toxic train wreck in Ohio and criticism of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg; the Biden administration’s new rule affecting migrants who travel through other countries to enter the U.S. from Mexico; entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy joins the race for the GOP nomination for president in ’24; and the winter storm affecting much of the Northern U.S. were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Features

January 2023 PPM Ratings Takeaways – Part One

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

January 2023 PPM Data – Information for the January 2023 ratings period has been released for New York; Los Angeles; Chicago; San Francisco; Dallas; Houston; Atlanta; Philadelphia; Nassau-Suffolk (Long Island); Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario; San Jose; and Middlesex-Somerset-Union.

Nielsen Audio’s January 2023 sweep covered January 5 – February 1.

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 “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 (6+).

NEW YORK

News/Talk: Red Apple Media’s WABC-AM & WLIR-FM “77 Talk Radio” 3.1 – 3.9, +.8, tenth to ninth

iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.1 – 1.7, +.6, #23 to #19

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” flat at 4.6, fifth to seventh and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” steady at 2.0, remains at #17

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets and NY Giants) 3.1 – 3.3, +.2, #10 to #12 and WFAN’s internet stream 1.4 – 2.0, +.6, #21 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: WNYC Broadcasting Foundation’s WNYC-FM 2.8 – 3.8, +1.0, #12 to #10

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLTW, third month in a row, 10.4 – 6.5, -3.9

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (+1.5)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW (-3.9)

 LOS ANGELES

News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KFI “AM 640” 4.4 – 4.1, -.3, third to sixth

News: Audacy-owned KNX-FM “News 97.1” 2.5 – 2.8, +.3, #12 to #9

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: Pasadena Area Community College’s KPCC 2.0 – 2.3, +.3, #19 to #16

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KOST, seventh month in succession, 13.1 – 6.8, -6.3

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: smooth AC KTWV (+1.3)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KOST (-6.3)

CHICAGO

News/Talk: Nexstar Media Group’s WGN “Radio 720” (Blackhawks) 2.8 – 3.4, +.6, #12 to #9

News: Audacy-owned WBBM-AM & WCFS “News Radio 780 AM & 105.9 FM” (Bears) 4.8 – 4.5, -.3, continues in fourth-place

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WSCR “670 The Score” (Bulls) 1.7 – 1.9, +.2, #20 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: Chicago Public Media-owned WBEZ 3.4 – 3.9, +.5, sixth to eighth  

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary WLIT, fourth straight month, 14.8 – 7.3, -7.5

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: triple A WXRT (+3.0)*

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLIT (-7.5)

*Represents the largest “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023  increase (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

SAN FRANCISCO

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” flat at 1.7, #18 to #20

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 6.7 – 6.9, +.2, anchored in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (49ers) 3.3 – 3.9, +.6, eighth to seventh

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” (Golden State Warriors) 1.9 – 2.7, +.8, #16 to #11

Public Radio News/Talk: KQED, Inc.-owned KQED 5.9 – 6.1, +.2, third to fourth

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, third successive month, 15.5 – 8.1, -7.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KISQ (+2.1)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KOIT-FM (-7.4)

DALLAS

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned WBAP “News Talk 820 AM & 99.5 HD2 FM” 3.7 – 3.4, -.3, eighth to tenth

News – Talk: Audacy’s KRLD-AM “News Radio 1080” (Cowboys) 2.2 – 2.5, +.3, #20 to #17

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KTCK “Sports Radio The Ticket” (Stars) 3.8 – 6.2, +2.4, sixth to first

Audacy’s KRLD-FM “105.3 The Fan” (Cowboys) 3.7 – 3.5, -.2, eighth to ninth

Public Radio News/Talk: North Texas Public Broadcasting-owned KERA 2.5 – 3.1, +.6, #16 to #14

Number One 6+: Cumulus Media sports talk KTCK, first month, 3.8 – 6.2, +2.4

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: sports talk KTCK (+2.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KDGE (-5.2)

HOUSTON

 News/Talk: iHeartMedia’s KTRH “AM 740 News Radio” 3.3 – 3.8, +.5, #12 to #11

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy KILT-AM “Sports Radio 610” 1.7 – 1.9, +.2, #21 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: University of Houston’s KUHF 2.4 – 3.1, +.7, #18 to #13

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia adult contemporary KODA, 23rd consecutive month, 14.7 – 9.6, -5.1

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic rock KGLK (+1.0)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KODA (-5.1)

ATLANTA

News/Talk: Cox Media Group-owned WSB-AM & WSBB “Atlanta’s News & Talk” 4.4 – 6.3, +1.9, seventh to fourth

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WZGC “92.9 The Game” (Hawks and Falcons) 2.2 – 2.4, +.2, #16 to #14

Dickey Broadcasting-owned WCNN “The Fan” 1.4 – 1.7, +.3, #20 to #18

Public Radio News/Talk: Atlanta Public Schools-owned WABE 3.0 – 3.8, +.8, tenth to ninth

Number One 6+: Cox Media Group classic hits-oldies WSRV, first month, 8.0 – 8.3, +.3

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: news/talk WSB-AM & WSBB (+1.9)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: contemporary Christian WFSH (-2.8)

PHILADELPHIA

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: Audacy-owned KYW & WPHI “News Radio 1060 AM & 103.9 FM” 6.2 – 5.8, -.4, third to fifth

Sports Talk: Audacy’s WIP “Sports Radio 94” (Eagles) 5.9 – 6.9, +1.0, fifth to second and WIP’s internet stream 1.2 – 1.6, +.4 #20 to #19

Beasley Media Group-owned WPEN-FM “97.5 The Fanatic” (76ers and Flyers) 1.3 – 1.6, +.3, flat at #19

Public Radio News/Talk: WHYY-owned WHYY 3.6 – 5.0, +1.4, continues in seventh-place

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group classic rock WMGK, first month, 6.0 – 7.3, +1.3

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WOGL (+1.9)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WBEB (-11.0)

LONG ISLAND

News/Talk: iHeartMedia-owned WOR “710 – The Voice of New York” 1.1 – 2.2, +1.1, #21 to #16

News: Audacy’s WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 3.8 – 4.4, +.6, repeats in seventh-place and cluster-mate WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 3.0 – 3.6, +.6, tenth to eighth

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets and NY Giants) 4.8 – 5.1, +.3, sixth to fourth and WFAN’s internet stream flat at 1.6, #16 to #17

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Jets, Rangers, Islanders) 1.4 – 1.6, +.2, #19 to #17

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: iHeartMedia CHR WHTZ, first month, 5.8 – 6.6, +.8

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: rhythmic CHR WKTU (+1.2)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: hot AC WALK-FM (-5.9)

RIVERSIDE

News/Talk: None in the top twenty

News: None in the top twenty

Sports Talk: None in the top twenty

Public Radio News/Talk: San Bernardino Community College District’s KVCR, flat at .4, #18 to #19

Number One 6+: Anaheim Broadcasting classic hits-oldies KOLA, 14th consecutive month, 7.6 – 6.8, -.8

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: regional Mexican KRQB (+1.4)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: rhythmic CHR KGGI (-.9)

SAN JOSE

News/Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KSFO “Talk Radio 560” 1.1 – 1.3, +.2, #22 to #19

News: Audacy’s KCBS-AM & KFRC “All News 740 AM & 106.9 FM” 7.0 – 7.4, +.4, anchored in the runner-up slot

Sports Talk: Cumulus Media-owned KNBR “The Sports Leader” (49ers ) 2.9 – 4.3, +1.4, eighth to seventh

Audacy’s KGMZ “95.7 The Game” steady at 1.3, #20 to #19

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Bonneville adult contemporary KOIT-FM, eighth consecutive month 22.7 – 8.5, -14.2

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: adult contemporary KISQ (+2.8)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary KOIT-FM (-14.2)**

**Represents the largest “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023  decrease (6+) of any station from these 12 PPM-markets

MIDDLESEX-SOMERSET-UNION

News/Talk: Townsquare Media-owned WKXW “New Jersey 101.5” 6.2 – 7.1, +.9 fourth to second

News: Audacy’s WINS-FM “1010 WINS All News 92.3 FM” 1.7 – 1.9, +.2, repeats at #14 and co-owned WCBS-AM “News Radio 880” 1.2 – 1.1, -.1, #18 to #20

Sports Talk: Audacy-owned WFAN-FM & WFAN-AM “Sports Radio 101.9 FM & 66 AM” (Brooklyn Nets and NY Giants) 3.0 – 3.9, +.9, ninth to seventh

Good Karma’s WEPN-FM “98.7 ESPN New York” (Knicks, Jets, Rangers, Islanders) 1.1 – 1.6, +.5, #20 to #18

WFAN’s internet stream .7 – 1.1, +.4, #22 to #20

Public Radio News/Talk: None in the top twenty

Number One 6+: Beasley Media Group adult contemporary WMGQ, first month, 10.9 – 7.4, -3.5

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Increase: classic hits-oldies WCBS-FM (+1.2)

Largest 6+ “Holiday” 2022 – January 2023 Decrease: adult contemporary WLTW (-5.1)

Up next: January 2023 overviews for: Washington, DC; Boston; Miami; Seattle; Detroit; Phoenix; Minneapolis; San Diego; Tampa; Denver; Baltimore; and St. Louis.

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

Industry News

Yesterday’s (2/20) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

President Joe Biden’s trip to Europe including a surprise visit to Ukraine; Vladimir Putin announces Russia is suspending participation in the latest nuclear arms treaty; the Supreme Court begins hearing arguments against Section 230 that gives internet publishers immunity from postings by users; Jimmy Carter enters hospice; the aftermath of the toxic train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio and criticism of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg’s response; House Speaker Kevin McCarthy gives January 6 Capitol security camera footage access to FOX News’ Tucker Carlson; and the winter storm affecting much of the U.S. were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

The Weekend’s Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

President Joe Biden’s trip to Europe and his surprise visit to Ukraine; China’s top diplomat visits Russia; the rumors that CNN’s Don Lemon is in hot water with network brass in the wake of his calling GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley “past her prime”; the 2024 presidential contest; former President Jimmy Carter enters hospice; the aftermath of the toxic train wreck affecting residents of East Palestine, Ohio; the ongoing search and recovery after the earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria; the deadly shootings at a Mardis Gras parade in New Orleans and in rural Mississippi; and actor-comedian Richard Belzer dies at 78 were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media over the weekend, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.

Industry News

Falun Gong Reaches Out to American Talk Media Hosts for Support

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The spiritual movement called Falun Gong (also referred to as Falun Dafa) has become very popular in China encompassing many of the meditation, health and philosophical tenets of Buddhism and other ancient Eastern religions. After its public introduction in 1992, Falun Gong spread peacefully throughout China until 1999, at which point the Communist government began to see it as a threat to its supreme authority and began persecuting its practitioners. In a short amount of time, it became the most popular form of qigong in China. Various government surveys and media reports placed the number of people practicing between 70 and 100 million by 1998. Thousands of people could be seen practicing Falun Gong exercises outdoors in parks in China’s large cities as well as cities around the world, including the U.S. Before the persecution started, Falun Gong had become an integral part of Chinese society. By the time the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) turned against Falun Gong in 1999, there were 100 million Falun Gong practitioners. The CCP’s persecution of Falun Gong is a comprehensive nation-wide effort that encompasses many different forms of cruelty and inhumanity. Torture, murder, brainwashing, imprisonment, rape, forced labor, propaganda, slander, robbery, and economic deprivation form the foundation of the campaign. The harvesting of organs from living Falun Gong practitioners for transplant sale has taken the persecution to a whole new level. TALKERS magazine is in communication with the New York City-based Falun Dafa Information Center which reports the following message to our readers: The fact that the CCP is enacting these crimes in the world today creates a series of questions. If China is willing to do this to a harmless and innocent group of its own citizens, what wouldn’t it do to the rest of the world if it felt that it had the power and incentive to do so? Would it violate the human rights of other nation’s citizens, invade a neighboring country, or try something worse? Do we each have a responsibility to stand up for innocent victims who are being tortured and slaughtered by their own government? If your neighbor was not bothering you but they were slaughtering their family members what would your responsibility be? Given the truth of this situation, what is your responsibility?  TALKERS encourages the talk media community to make contact with Levi Browde, executive director of the Falun Dafa Information Center to arrange interviews with him and other experts to raise consciousness among Americans to this dire human rights threat as well as other detailed insights into tenuous U.S.-China relations. He can be reached via email at levib@faluninfo.net.

Above: Falun Gong practitioner arrested at Tiananmen Square

Industry News

Top News/Talk Media Stories for Week of February 13-17

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

The recent incidents of unmanned “objects” and potential “spycrafts” flying over North America and the U.S.’s shooting down of several was the most-talked-about story in news/talk media this week, landing atop the Talkers TenTM. At #2 this week was the state of U.S.-China relations in the aftermath of the U.S.’s shooting down of a likely Chinese spy balloon, followed by former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley’s entrance into the 2024 presidential race, tied with the numerous legal issues facing former President Donald Trump at #3. The Talkers TenTM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on news/talk radio during the week and is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS magazine. It is published every Friday at Talkers.com. See this week’s complete chart here.

Industry News

Yesterday’s (2/15) Top News/Talk Media Stories

By TALKERS | by TALKERS

Former South Carolina Governor and former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley formally announces her bid for the GOP nomination for president in 2024, joining former President Donald Trump who has also announced his campaign; today’s expected release of a portion of the Georgia grand jury report on Trump’s alleged attempt to overturn that state’s 2020 election results; the brouhaha over the U.S.’s shooting down of several objects over North America, including the Chinese spy balloon; U.S. Rep Matt Gaetz’s attorney announces he won’t be charged with sex crimes; Vladimir Putin’s ramping up of attacks on Ukraine and allegations Russia is deporting thousands of Ukrainian children to Russia; East Palestine, Ohio residents fear for their health and safety after the toxic train derailment two weeks ago; and Raquel Welch dies at 82 were some of the most-talked-about stories in news/talk media yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS magazine.