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SiriusXM To Trim Cost By $200 Million, Shift Away From Streaming And Refocus On Automotive

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 11TH, 2024 - Sirius XM announced that it has appointed Wayne D. Thorsen (L), former Executive Vice President and Chief Business Officer of ADT Inc., to serve as SiriusXM's Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, effective December 16, 2024. He will report directly to SiriusXM's Chief Executive Officer, Jennifer Witz (BR), and play an instrumental role in executing the Company's updated strategic direction that was separately announced today.

The news comes as the satcaster is aiming to trim costs by $200 million in 2025 as it shifts away from streaming and refocuses on its core automotive market reports Deadline. The news, announced in a press release, follows efforts in 2023 and 2024 to achieve about $350 million in cost savings. Last February, as part of that austerity drive, the company laid off about 3% of its workforce. SiriusXM said it is “doubling down” on vehicles, where 90% of its subscribers engage with its service.

“At SiriusXM, we are focusing on the strengths that set us apart – including our strong core subscriber base, our unique position in vehicle, and our unrivaled, curated content — and taking steps to drive profitability and cash flow as we face marketplace headwinds impacting the company’s growth trajectory,” CEO Jennifer Witz said in a press release. “We have a clear path forward and are confident we can deliver for our stockholders.”

"As a long-time SiriusXM subscriber myself, I have always admired SiriusXM's platform and its commitment to providing listeners with unmatched content. It is an honor to join this Company as it enters its next phase," said Thorsen. "This is an important time for SiriusXM, and strong execution will be critical as the Company implements its new strategy. I'm excited to work alongside Jennifer and the rest of the SiriusXM leadership team to turn the company's vision into results-driven, efficient action, and capture the opportunity ahead."

Edison Research With Its Top 10 Findings Of 2024

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 11TH, 2024 - In yesterday's webinar hosted by Edison Research Vice President Megan Lazovick and Director of Research Laura Ivey, they shared ten of Edison's favorite insights from the work they conducted this year.

Among its key findings showed that Spotify is now the primary source Americans age 12+ use to find new music: Around half of music listeners agree it is important to keep up-to-date with new music, and their means of music discovery has changed. In 2016, 4% said Spotify was the one source they use most often to keep up to date with new music. That number skyrocketed to 18% in 2024, beating out all other platforms in our survey.

The audio day of Americans has changed significantly in the past 10 years: Americans age 13+ now spend an average of 18% of their audio day listening to streaming music from sources such as Amazon Music, Apple Music, Pandora, and Spotify, 14% listening to YouTube for music, and 10% listening to podcasts. AM/FM radio still takes the largest portion of the audio day on a 13+ basis with 36%, driven heavily by in-car listening.

YouTube is the service used most often for podcast listening: YouTube, typically known as the go-to platform for video content, has risen to the top as the most popular service used for podcast listening in the U.S. with 30% of weekly podcast listeners age 13+ choose YouTube as the service they use most to listen to podcasts.

Many True Crime consumers listen to podcasts but not true crime podcasts: An opportunity is uncovered for True Crime podcast creators to reach a new audience – 17% of the U.S. population age 13+ (48 million Americans) are True Crime consumers who listen to podcasts, but not True Crime podcasts.

Edison shared a Bonus finding showing that 19% of those age 12+ are currently using X (formerly known as Twitter), a 30% drop from the findings in the 2023 Infinite Dial study.

Watch full presentation here

Ryan Gorman & Dana McKay Land Mornings At iHeart's 610 WIOD Miami

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 11TH, 2024 - iHeartMedia Miami’s NewsRadio 610 AM-WIOD has named Ryan Gorman and Dana McKay as its new Morning Show Hosts. Gorman and McKay will helm “The Ryan Gorman Show” from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., followed by The Manny Munoz Show, which will expand to air from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ryan Gorman and Dana McKay as new co-hosts of our morning show,” said Shari Gonzalez, iHeartMedia Miami/Fort Lauderdale Market President. “Ryan, Dana and Manny’s dynamic presence and understanding of our South Florida community make them the perfect fit to WIOD’s morning lineup.”

“South Florida is a vibrant and diverse community, and I’m honored to be a part of the team bringing important news and stories to our listeners,” said Ryan Gorman. “I look forward to starting the day with our WIOD audience and keeping them informed and entertained.”

Dan O'Connell Moves To Afternoons As 1130 WISN Milwaukee Unveils New Primetime Lineup For 2025

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 11TH, 2024 - iHeart's WISN Milwaukee announced its new prime-time lineup for 2025, effective January 2, 2025. “WISN is one of the great success stories in the radio industry over the past decade, in terms of both ratings and overall influence,” said Jeff Tyler, Area President for iHeartMedia Wisconsin. “We are confident that this latest evolution of WISN’s powerful lineup will meet and exceed the expectations of our listeners and our sponsors.”

The new lineup includes “The Jay Weber Show” (6am-9am) - “The Benjamin Yount Show” (9am-11am) - “Clay Travis and Buck Sexton” (11am-2pm) - “The Vicki McKenna Show” (2pm-3pm) and “The Dan O’Donnell Show” (3pm-6pm) Dan takes his top-rated midday show, expands it from two to three hours in length, and moves it to afternoon drive. A former winner of an Edward R. Murrow Award for radio journalism, Dan blends investigative reporting and hard-hitting commentary with a contemporary style of using audio and the overall radio medium to craft a unique, compelling program that has exploded in popularity.

Meruelo Media's 95.5 KLOS Los Angeles Raises $1,292,000 In 26 Hours For St. Jude Hospital

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 11TH, 2024 - Meruelo Media’s KLOS (95.5 KLOS-FM) held its 8 th annual St. Jude Radiothon December 5 - 6 th , 2024, with the challenging goal of raising more money for St. Jude than the prior fundraising event where 95.5 KLOS broke the St. Jude radio’s single rock station fundraising record, set a new national record for a single rock station, donating $1,292,000 to St. Jude. KLOS Sr. Program Coordinator, Keith Cunningham said, “During this season of giving, I am thankful for every donation from KLOS listeners. They prove that together we can make the impossible dream a reality every year."

Pio Ferro, SVP of Audio Brands, commented, “This new milestone highlights our amazing KLOS community and their unmatched ability to show their passion in helping kids and their families by coming together.”

When St. Jude opened in 1962, childhood cancer was considered incurable. Since then, St. Jude has helped push the overall survival rate from 20% to more than 80%, and it won't stop until no child dies from cancer. St. Jude shares the breakthroughs it makes to help doctors and researchers at local hospitals and cancer centers around the world improve the quality of treatment and care for even more children.

Alpha's 98.7 The Bull Portland Raises $307,401 For The Kids at St. Jude!

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 11TH, 2024 - Alpha's 98.7 The Bull (KUPL) dedicated their airwaves to the kids at St. Jude Children’s th Research Hospital on Thursday, December 5 over $307,000 which is another record breaking year! and Friday, December 6 th . They raised KUPL’s Content Director, Tim Richards, commented "Danny and Jake did a fantastic job this year capturing the essence of St. Jude and the mission. Together with B-Dub, they delivered an amazing two-day radiothon that changed lives. I'm so proud of this world-class team."

Alpha Media’s SVP Market Manager, Robert Dove, stated “ I am so proud of this team and the work they have done for St. Jude's for many years. Thank you to our listeners as well who embraced the mission of St. Jude's. Without them we couldn't make this happen.”

Shown above, L-R: DeeAnna Janku (St. Jude), Jake Byron, Danny Dwyer & B-Dub (98.7 The Bull)

Beasley's 92.5 XTU Raises $321,394 To Benefit St. Jude Children’s Hospital

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 11TH, 2024 - Beasley Media Group’s 92.5 XTU, Philadelphia’s Country station, raised $321,394 during the annual St. Jude Cares For Country Kids Radiothon. The event took place from the studio Thursday, December 5 through Friday, December 6, 2024. The station’s on-air personalities broadcast live from 6am to 7pm both days to help raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer research that directly benefits the hospital.

To date, XTU has raised over 1.3 million for St. Jude over the past five years.  For complete details on how you can support St. Jude Children’s Hospital, please visit: www.925xtu.com.

In yet another event this weekend, WXTU-FM, in partnership with the Camden County Board of Commissioners, will hold its 25th Annual Toy Truck Parade to collect toys to benefit The Boys and Girls Clubs of Camden County. The event will feature WXTU-FM 92.5 on air personalities, including The Andie Summers Show, Razz on the Radio and Nicole Michalik. Country Artist Corey Kent will serve as the parade’s Grand Marshall and perform live at the Scottish Rite Auditorium. The event takes place on Saturday, December 14, 2024 8:00am beginning at the Cooper River Track N Park Drive Pennsauken, NJ 08109 Parade and ending at the Scottish Rite Auditorium.

BIG 98.1 Philadelphia Raises $241,253 For The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 11TH, 2024 - Audacy Philadelphia’s BIG 98.1 (WOFL-FM) has raised $241,253 for the Child Life, Education and Creative Arts Therapy Department at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) with its 23rd annual “BIG 98.1 Loves Our Kids Radiothon.” Proceeds from the radiothon go towards highly trained CHOP staff – the Child Life Specialists who offer tailored care and support to children and families facing illness, injury, or hospitalization.

“Child Life Specialists at CHOP are the real heroes, comforting kids when they need it most. They’re like best friends to the patients and a lifesaver for the parents. We’re proud to use our platform to support them,” said David Yadgaroff, Senior Vice President and Market Manager, Audacy Philadelphia. “The ‘BIG 98.1 Loves Our Kids Radiothon’ is a special event for us and our community. We couldn’t do it without the amazing support of our listeners and advertisers.”

The “BIG 98.1 Loves Our Kids Radiothon” was hosted by morning show host Coop, who talked to patients, their families, CHOP staff and an array of co-hosts, including talent from sister stations at B101 (WBEB-FM), Sports Radio 94WIP (WIP-FM) and KYW Newsradio (103.9 FM / 1060 AM) about the miracles that happen every day at CHOP.

104.1 KRBE And Texas Children’s Hospitals Raise Over $164,000 In 3rd Annual 'Little Heroes'

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 11TH, 2024 - Cumulus Media’s 104.1 KRBE, Houston presented the 3rd annual “Houston’s Little Heroes” community fundraising event on Thursday, December 5th to benefit Texas Children’s Hospitals. The successful effort raised a total of $164,012.32 in funds for the Texas-based charity. Texas Children’s Hospital, a not-for-profit health care organization, is committed to creating a healthier future for children and women throughout the global community by leading in patient care, education, and research.

104.1 KRBE’s “The Roula & Ryan Show” kicked off the daylong event with a live broadcast from Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, which continued throughout the day with Afternoon Drive on-air personalities Kevin and Audrey. 104.1 KRBE listeners heard poignant and uplifting stories from hospital staff, patients and families sharing how Children’s Miracle Network has improved the lives of children facing medical emergencies and hospitalization.

“We are so grateful for the incredible support from our community. This Houston’s Little Heroes is an opportunity for our listeners to come together and make a real impact,” said Leslie Whittle, Regional Content Director for KRBE-FM. “We’re excited to offer a fun and interactive way for our listeners to get involved while supporting a cause that truly matters on a local level.”

SZA, Tate McRae, Meghan Trainor And More Hit Stage at 102.7 KIIS-FM’s Jingle Ball In L.A.

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 11TH, 2024 - On December 6th at iHeartRadio 102.7 KIIS FM's Jingle Ball 2024 presented by Capital One, the stars hit the stage for the second stop of the national iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, CA. The event featured iconic performances from today’s biggest artists including SZA, Tate McRae, Meghan Trainor, Kane Brown, Benson Boone, Madison Beer, Shaboozey, T-Pain, Paris Hilton and NCT Dream. Celebrity presenters include Hailey Bieber, Madison Bailey, Nikki Glaser and Ryan Seacrest. Celebrity attendees include Alexander Stewart, Ali Larter, Ashleigh Johnson, Camilla Luddington, Chyler Leigh, Elisa Donovan, Flavor Flav, Jana Kramer, Jessica Capshaw, Joan Vassos and Chock Chapple, Jonathan Bennett, Kathy Swarts, Kelly Bensimon, Maggie Steffens, Nancy Hulkower, Susan Noles, Teddi Mellencamp, T.J. Holmes and Tori Spelling.

iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour stops will be part of the exclusive network special airing December 18 at 8:00 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT on ABC, next day on Hulu. Every year, 102.7 KIIS FM’s Jingle Ball Presented by Capital One gives back to the community to celebrate the holiday season. This year’s official charity is the Ryan Seacrest Foundation – $1.00 of each ticket sold will be donated to the non-profit organization.

A Rookie Coach Takes Honors In Season 26 Winner Of 'The Voice'

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Judge Rejects Sale of Alex Jones' Infowars To The Onion In Dispute Over Bankruptcy Auction

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Photo/NBC

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WWO: Audience Video Profile Of Streamers Closely Aligns With Podcast And AM/FM Radio Listeners

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 10TH, 2024 - Westwood One conducted a series of tracking studies measuring American use of video services revealing podcasts and AM/FM radio are ideal marketing platforms for video streamers like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Paramount+, Hulu, and Disney+. Westwood One Audio Active Group® conducted an analysis of six recent quarterly studies spanning Spring 2023 to Fall 2024. Check out the findings that are highlighted on this week’s blog

Key findings reveal: Nielsen: Since 2021, video streaming’s share of TV time spent has soared from 26% to 40% Americans are cutting back on the number of ad-free video subscriptions while increasing the number of video services with ads

Screen Engine/ASI: The audience profile of video streamers closely aligns with podcast and AM/FM radio listeners, not linear TV viewers. While the profile of heavy audio consumers is a perfect match for the video streaming audience, most of the media budgets go to linear TV.

Despite massive spending on linear TV, ad recall levels for video services among heavy TV viewers are identical to those among heavy audio listeners A wide variety of AM/FM radio programming formats provide reach for the video streaming target audience. Nielsen: At any spend level, AM/FM radio dramatically outreaches linear TV Nielsen

Media Impact: AM/FM radio makes your TV better: Hulu experiences a +76% increase in reach with a 20% reallocation to AM/FM radio; Much of the reach growth occurs among younger demos and light TV viewers. To read the full blog post, here - Or, view 17-minute video of key findings here.

Edison Research To Unveil It's 'Definitive' Top 10 Findings Of 2024 Today At 2pm ET In Webinar

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 10TH, 2024 - Edison Research will unveil its definitive Top 10 Findings of 2024 in a 30-minute webinar today, December 10 at 2pm ET. The list-worthy findings on audio, podcasts,radio, exit polls and more from Edison’s custom research and syndicated datasets will be presented by many of the researchers who worked on the studies.

Click here to register for Top 10 Findings of 2024 from Edison Research on Tuesday, December 10 at 2pm ET, hosted by Edison Research Vice President Megan Lazovick (L) and Director of Research Laura Ivey (R).

KNX News Los Angeles Goes Live From Its Brand New Studio And Newsroom On LA's Miracle Mile

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 10TH, 2024 - Mike Simpson goes live from KNX News' brand new studio! Mike Simpson goes live from KNX News' brand new studio! News 97.1 By KNX News 97.1 FM KNX News 97.1 FM 21 hours ago KNX News went live from its new studio on L.A.'s Miracle Mile at 11 a.m. on Sunday.

L.A.’s Morning News co-anchor Mike Simpson was the first anchor behind the mic in the station’s new Studio 1 at Audacy Los Angeles, after nearly 20 years in facilities on a different floor. The makeover took over a year to complete. KNX News extends its heartfelt thank you to the crews and IT team who worked tirelessly to bring this new the newsroom and studio to life. Photo credit KNX

Chris Stigall Headed To Mornings And Goes National For Salem Amid Lineup Changes

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 10TH, 2024 - Starting Monday, January 13th. Salem Radio Network and Salem News Channel's longtime SRN/SNC host Hugh Hewitt will be moving his popular morning program to afternoons, 3 to 6pm ET, replacing Dr. Sebastian Gorka who's headed to a new position at The White House.

Hewitt will be replaced in the mornings, 6-9am ET, with Chris Stigall, the morning host in Philadelphia on AM 990 The Answer. Stigall has been a local morning host on radio stations from Kansas City to Philadelphia since 2006. Stigall has been working for Salem for the last six years doing mornings in Philadelphia, and will continue there but now across the country, as well.

Both Hewitt and Stigall will not only be syndicated on the Salem Radio Network, but also simulcast on Salem News Channel. Hugh Hewitt today has more than 450 affiliates on the Salem Radio Network. “I am delighted to make this move to afternoons. Breaking news from Washington DC happens largely during the day, and now I will have the opportunity to provide insight and opinion on the news as it happens,” said Hewitt.

“Salem has become a national leader in conservative media and free speech at a time of great consequences,” said Stigall. “God put it on my heart from a very young age to work in broadcasting. It feels so good to know this extraordinary professional opportunity comes from a management team of God-honoring men and women in Salem."

Dave Coombs To Take Over Mornings On WKLH Milwaukee As Dave Luczak Announces Retirement

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 10TH, 2024 - After over 40 remarkable years as the host of Saga's WKLH’s morning show, Dave Luczak announced his retirement. “To anyone who has ever listened to the morning show on 96-5 in Milwaukee, all I can say is Thank You!”, said Luczak. Dave Luczak’s farewell will kick off with a special live public broadcast on Friday, December 13th, at Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery. Luczak will return to the studio for one final week of shows beginning Monday, December 16th, with plenty of surprise guests, culminating in his last official broadcast on Friday, December 20th.

As WKLH bids farewell to one Dave, it welcomes another. Beginning January 2, 2025, current WKLH Midday Host, Dave Coombs will join castmates, Dorene Michaels and Marcus Allen to co-host Milwaukee’s Hometown Morning Show. “When WKLH was assembling a list of candidates to replace Dave Luczak, I was lucky I had the correct first name,” said Coombs. “I’ve had the pleasure of working with Dave for four of his 40+ years of service and I wish we could all continue together forever."

WKLH Brand Manager, Borna Velic, adds, “I want to congratulate Dave Luczak on an extraordinary career. He set a gold standard for Milwaukee broadcasting, and I wish him nothing but the best in his well-deserved retirement. I’m thrilled to welcome Dave Coombs to ‘KLH mornings as he brings incredible experience and enthusiasm. I’m confident that he, Dorene, and Marcus will continue to deliver an entertaining morning show our audience expects and deserves.”

'KS95 For Kids' Raises $1,081,697 For Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare & Masonic Hospital

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 10TH, 2024 - Hubbard Radio Minneapolis' KS95 for Kids broadcast live at Mall of America this past Friday (12/6) and the current total raised for KS95 for Kids is $1,081,697! This is the 3rd consecutive amount over one million dollars to KS95 For Kids. The money raised by this year’s KS95 for Kids will benefit our partners at Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare and Masonic Children’s Hospital.

The Twelve hour KS95 For Kids event concluded with KS95 Clouds Choir, and thousands of people packed all four levels of Mall of America Rotunda to sing Zach Sobiech’s song Clouds, which was released by KS95 in December of 2012. Clouds Choir benefits the Zach Sobiech Osteosarcoma fund.

“Each year in December we are reminded of the generosity from our Twin Cities community. We cannot do this without the support of the Twin Cities, our volunteers, sponsors, staff, the stories from Gillette and Masonic patients., says Mat Mitchell – KS95 Brand/Content Director. KS95 for Kids is the Local Charity Partnership of Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare, the University of Minnesota Masonic Children's Hospital and KS95. With the support of corporate partners and the generosity of KS95’s listeners, $20 Million has been raised to fight children’s cancers and give kids with disabilities the best quality of life possible. 2024 is our 26th year.

SHOWN L-R: Wes McKane (mornings) Hutch and Staci Matthews (afternoons), Devin Marshall (mornings), Dez (mornings), TJ (middays), Crisco (mornings), Dan Seeman (Market Manager)

[WATCH] Christmas Comes Early For One Special Johnjay & Rich Listener

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 10TH, 2024 - For 24 years, The Johnjay and Rich Show has been granting Christmas wishes to families in need through their 501c3 nonprofit #LOVEUP. On Friday, December 6, the Premiere Networks-syndicated program gifted one incredible wish to a mom of five kids, two of whom are adopted. Dawn, a registered nurse, community volunteer, and warrior battling stage 4 cancer, needed a big hand up.

Johnjay and Rich’s #LOVEUP Foundation gifted her family a real-life Christmas complete with a fully decorated Christmas tree, presents for all the kids, an abundance of clothes, bags of groceries, and to top it off, a $500 college scholarship for each of her two 18-year-old twins, sponsored by the Miss Arizona Scholarship Foundation.

“Truth is, we can be on the naughty list most of year, but we try to make up for it and give back through #LOVEUP,” said Rich Berra. “We encourage you to listen but be prepared for a full-on mascara alert on this one.” “We are about giving...We are givers…We are the most givey givers on the radio,” said Johnjay Van Es. The foundation grants a dozen Christmas Wishes during the holiday season and will continue making seasons bright for listeners in all of their affiliated cities right up until Christmas Eve. Watch Listener Surprised Here

95.1 WAPE Collects Thousands of Toys During Big Ape’s Big Give Toy Drive

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 10TH, 2024 - CMG Radio’s 95.1 WAPE announced that it helped collect thousands toys during its “Big Ape’s Big Give Toy Drive.” 95.1 WAPE will provide the gifts to Wolfson Children's Hospital Family Support Services Duval & Nassau Counties, Children's Home Society of Florida, and the Children's Christmas Party of Jacksonville.

“95.1 WAPE Jacksonville’s inaugural Big Ape’s Big Give Toy Drive was a BIG SUCCESS!” remarked Jud Heussler Director of Branding & Programing. “Our listeners stepped up in a big way to help kids & families throughout Northeast Florida have a Merry Christmas!” This year’s event was presented by Coastline Federal Credit Union. Shown Above: Dex & Barbie

Cleveland’s Star 102 Raised $200,116 During Its 22nd Annual Rainbow Radiothon

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 10TH, 2024 - Last Friday, December 6th, Audacy Cleveland’s Star 102 (WDOK-FM) raised $200,116 benefiting University Hospitals (UH) Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital during its 22nd Rainbow Radiothon in Cleveland. Since 2003, the station and the local community have raised over $5.6 million!

The money raised from the “Rainbow Radiothon” helps advance the personalized care the hospital can provide to its young patients.

Audacy Washington D.C’s El Zol 107.9 (WLZL-FM) Raised $135,104 During 17th Annual Radiothon

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 10TH, 2024 - Cleveland’s Star 102 (WDOK-FM) raised $200,116 benefiting University Hospitals (UH) Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital during its 22nd Rainbow Radiothon in Cleveland.December 6th benefiting Children’s National Hospital.

Proceeds from this event will help ease the stress for patients and their families spending their holidays at Children’s National Hospital.

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Steve Goldstein: 'Audio Is Far From Done Evolving'

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 9TH, 2024 - Last week's blog by Amplifi Media's Steve Goldstein titled 'The Ups And Down of Audio in 2024, provided a sobering, yet optimistic wrap-up of Audio in 2024. "innovation kept us on our toes, challenges tested the industry's grit, and evolution was the name oft he game. It’s been a wild ride with twists, turns, and surprises that prove just how adaptable the world of audio can be," says Goldstein.

Following by a myriad of topics, Goldstein kicks off with 'The Podcast Election'. "Podcasting had a giant cultural moment this year. The 2024 political cycle was dubbed by many as "The Podcast Election," a nod to podcasts' pivotal role in shaping political discourse. Goldstein says, "At the expense of mainstream media, candidates opted for appearances on podcasts like 'Call Her Daddy' and 'The Joe Rogan Experience.' The reach of shows like Call Her Daddy is bigger and has a more targeted audience than many TV shows and aging cable networks.

Turning to radio, Goldstein points out that despite its financial challenges, broadcast radio held listenership among ad-supported media. Nielsen reports that Americans spend 20% of their daily mediatime with audio. That’s just under four hours each day. Slicing it by time spent with ad-supported media, 67% of that time is with radio. Zooming in on 18-34, it’s just over half (51%) with radio and roughly one-third with podcasts (31%).

On the satellite radio side, Goldstein says there are questions about whether Howard Stern, their top star, will continue. That’s an unknown at this time. What is clear is that the stable of SiriusXM podcasts grew in 2024 with the addition of Alex Cooper (a reportedly $100-$125M deal), SmartLess Media ($100M deal), and others.

In summarizing, Goldstein says, "As 2024 fades out, the audio industry, however, is very much alive," "From game-changing tech to seismic shifts in how and where people listen (and watch), this year has been a masterclass in resilience and reinvention. The challenges are real, but so are the opportunities. If this year has taught us anything, it’s that audio is far from done evolving. So, here’s to the innovators, the risk-takers, and the storytellers pushing boundaries. Bring on 2025—let’s see what’s next for the world of sound. Read complete blog here

iHeart Chicago Stations Raised Over $1 Million During The Annual 'Lurie Children’s Radiothon'

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 9TH, 2024 - iHeartMedia Chicago's “Lurie Children’s Radiothon” raised over $1 million in support of the patients and families at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. The “Lurie Children’s Radiothon” was broadcast live on Thursday, December 5 on 93.9 LITE FM, ROCK 95 FIVE, 107.5 WGCI, 103.5 KISS FM, V103 and Inspiration 1390 from 6 a.m. – 7 p.m. “The Lurie Children’s Radiothon is a wonderful tradition in the Chicagoland community,” said Adam Kurtz, Region President for iHeartMedia Chicago. “iHeartMedia Chicago, along with our advertising partners and listeners, is so proud to be a part of this incredible event that benefits Lurie Children’s patients, parents and families in our local community.”

“The Radiothon has been such a gift to us, as a way to share stories about our amazing patients as well as our care providers, who fight on behalf of children every day,” said Dr. Tom Shanley, Lurie Children’s President & CEO. “We are very grateful to iHeartMedia Chicago and all their listeners for helping us create healthier futures for every child, not just in Chicago but far beyond the walls of the hospital.”

For the past five years, the radiothon has raised over $3.6 million to benefit Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.

101.7 The Bull Boston Raises Over $483,000 In 2-Day Radiothon For St. Jude Children's Hospital

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 9TH, 2024 - Last week, 101.7 The Bull in Boston wrapped up a 2-day radiothon to benefit St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital. This year, The Bull’s generous listeners donated over $482,000. This amazing annual total puts the total raised by this radiothon to over $4 million raised since 2015.

Photo: Left to Right: 101.7 The Bull’s Steve Kelly ,101.7 The Bull’s Jessica Callahan, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Staffer Emily Brooks and 101.7 The Bull’s Brandon Clay.

Charlotte’s 96.9 The Kat Raises $200,033 During Annual 2-Day St. Jude Radiothon

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 9TH, 2024 - iHeartMedia’s Charlotte’s 96.9 The Kat's annual St. Jude Radiothon raised over $200,033. The event took place Thursday, December 6 and Friday, December 7 and it helped raise funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 96.9 The Kat’s on-air personalities including Paul Schadt & Sarah Lee in the Morning, Angie Ward, Ashley Wilson, and Eddie Foxx encouraged listeners to become Partners in Hope by making monthly donations to St. Jude. T

“Once again, the Charlotte community has stepped up for the St. Jude kids,” said Ashley Wilson, Program Director for 96.9 The Kat. “We will not stop until no child dies of cancer. It’s an honor every year to leverage our platform to save children and find cures that impact children in the Carolinas and beyond.” Since the partnership’s inception in 1994, 96.9 The Kat has raised over $5.1 million to benefit St. Jude.

OVER 5,500 Listeners Pack The House For Annual 93Q Star Houston's St. Jude Event

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 9TH, 2024 - On Wednesday December 4th, 93Q Star Houston's arty lit up the stage with 6 of the brightest stars of 2024! The event was a concert benefit for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. We are still tallying up the total but one of the highlights was a $30,000 check presentation on stage near the end of the show. Megan Moroney, Zach Top, Parmalee, Ernest, Tucker Wetmore and Dasha had the crowd making noise and celebrating all night long.

Over 5,500 93Q listeners packed the 7-1-3 Music Hall in downtown Houston for our annual benefit for the Kids of St. Jude.

Lower group L-R: Andy Riggs (Q Morning show), Lo Sessions (93Q APD/MD), Pam McKay (Market VP), Katelyn Maida (Q Morning Show), Travis Moon (93Q Program Director), Mason Pradt (93Q Personality), Linda V. (93Q Personality)

Tim And Chelsea’s 'Friends Feeding Friends' Raises More Than Half a Million Meals for Those in Need

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 9TH, 2024 - WIRK-FM West Palm's Tim and Chelsea just wrapped up their annual “Friends Feeding Friends”. The event raised a record breaking 31,238 lbs of food and $17,580 for Palm Beach Harvest food bank, which translates into 585,816 meals to feed those in need in the community.

“This was our biggest year ever,” said Chelsea Eato (shown above center between Tim and Chelsea) . “We couldn’t be more grateful to have such amazing and supportive listeners!” Even though the event was held over three days, the donations kept coming in. Schools, churches and businesses contacted New Country 103.1 saying they had held their own drive for Friends Feeding Friends and had further donations.

“Working with Tim and Chelsea is one of the most gratifying and amazing experiences that we have had at Palm Beach Harvest,” states Deborah Morgan, founder and executive director at Palm Beach Harvest. “They’re a team that really reaches out to their listeners to feed those who are so desperately in need.”

“There was one moment I’ll never forget,” said Tim Leary. “We were on the air and a guy in a small SUV pulled right up to us. He rolled down his window, and said as he was fighting back tears, “Two years ago I was homeless and this program helped me!” He handed us a bunch of folded cash and drove off. Both Chelsea and I were literally left speechless on the air.”

'The Ticket' Dallas Returns To TM Studios For Its Third Custom Jingle Package

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 9TH, 2024 - KTCK has returned to TM Studios once again, deepening its partnership with TM and evolving the iconic sound of “The Ticket” with fresh new Thematic Jingles and Branding. For many years, TM Studios has been responsible for the unique sound of The Ticket, with its distinctive sonic logo, and music that reflects the amazing chemistry found on the station. Jeff Catlin, Program Director at The Ticket, says, “When it comes to custom music themes and jingles for The Ticket, I know what I want and how it sounds in my head but speaking that musical language can be tough."

TM Studio’s Greg Clancy, Composer and Producer of the latest custom adds, “Cat is a genius in the lab of guy radio, and he gets jingles and sonic branding. He knows that the jingles cohesively hold the station together, allowing the station personalities to be unique and different from one another. Plus, the familiar logo creates instant brand recognition and the emotion of being with friends for the listeners.”

The Ticket features the legendary Andy Timmons on guitars and a world class live band. The package could easily work for Rock and Sports stations and works equally well using Beds and Ramps for live presentation or IDs and Shotguns for coming out of stop sets or between songs. Hear the package as used on The Ticket here, or listen to the entire package here - https://tmstudios.com/jingles/the-ticket/ . Reach TM at hello@tmstudios.com

SiriusXM Kicks Off Its 'Women’s Empowerment Network' Produced By Host Karen Hunter

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 9TH, 2024 - Starting today, SiriusXM kicks off its Women’s Empowerment Network, a new podcast network executive produced by SiriusXM Urban View host and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Karen Hunter. Among the first podcasts to premiere under the network is “Karen Hunter Is Awesome!”, a daily podcast where Hunter dives deep into a wide range of thought-provoking topics. In what she considers a companion piece to her regular Urban View radio show, Hunter will challenge her listeners in new ways, covering everything from Bible prophecy to the purpose of race, and even the latest TV shows and movies, while still delivering her signature blend of intellect and candidness.

Also launching today is “Financially Speaking,” a daily podcast designed specifically to help women navigate the complex and evolving financial landscape. Hosted by a team of renowned financial experts, including Dr. Tonya Evans (cryptocurrency and intellectual property), Dr. Tisa Silver Canady (financial wellness and student loan debt eradication), Jacquette Timmons (financial behaviorist), and Ruchi Pinniger (financial coach and founder of Watch Her Prosper), this podcast will offer listeners practical advice and insights to help them make informed financial decisions and build lasting wealth.

“The Women’s Empowerment Network is a destination where women can come together and be heard in ways that are authentic, uplifting, and transformative,” said Karen Hunter. “I’ve always believed in the power of women supporting each other, and I’m excited to have this new platform where we can rise together.” The Karen Hunter Show” weekdays from 3-6pm ET on Urban View channel 126. Among her many accomplishments, Hunter is the author of several New York Times bestsellers, including Confessions of a Video Vixen, On the Down Low, and Wendy’s Got the Heat. She is also an assistant professor in the Film & Media Department at Hunter College.

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WTOP Dedicates ‘Jim Farley Glass-Enclosed Nerve Center’ To Man Who Transformed The Station

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 6TH, 2024 - WTOP’s main air studio was dedicated Wednesday as “The Jim Farley Glass Enclosed Nerve Center,” for the man who led the station’s transformation from a poorly rated AM station, to an all-news digital news organization and the top-billing radio station in the country. Farley (shown at right) died in August 2024, at the age of 75.

With current and former WTOP employees in the newsroom, as well as Farley’s family watching, senior vice president and general manager of WTOP Joel Oxley whisked away an Irish flag, to reveal a glass etching that reads “The Jim Farley Glass-Enclosed Nerve Center: First Get It Right, Then Get It First,” citing one of the longtime journalist’s exhortations. Farley was vice president of news and programming at WTOP for 17 years, from 1996 to 2013.

“When Jim came here, it just changed things immediately,” Oxley told those gathered. “It was just such an injection of enthusiasm and creativity and ideas, ideas, ideas.” Former program director Mike McMearty said the renaming is fitting and well-deserved."he Glass-Enclosed Nerve Center’ was his brainchild — it was theater of the mind,” said McMearty. Regarded by admirers as part Edward R. Murrow and part P.T. Barnum, Farley coined the phrase as a ratings and marketing tool.

Other employees recounted Farley-isms that have remained fixtures in the continually changing newsroom such as “Get in trouble for something that you did, not something you didn’t do,” reflected Farley’s leadership style which engendered a feeling of pride, responsibility and empowerment within the newsroom. Photo/WTOP-Emily Venezky

Beloved Charleston PD/Host Mike Edwards Of 'Two Girls & A Guy' Passes Away

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 6TH, 2024 - Longtime PD/Morning Host Mike Edwards from "Two Girls & a Guy"On WMXZ-FM Charleston, NC has died, according to a post shared by his two co-hosts Brooke Ryan and Tanya Brown. They revealed the news after arriving at work on Thursday morning. Ryan and Brown stated that when they arrived to work Thursday morning Edwards was absent which was unusual for him. They attempted to contact him to no avail and ordered a wellness check to ensure his safety. They stated that officers performed the wellness check and discovered Edwards dead. According to ABC News4, It is believed Chambers died a "natural death" and there is "no suspicion of foul play, Charleston County Coroner Bobbi Jo O'Neal said.

In the video posted by Ryan and Brown they shared a release from the station that stated: "It is with great sadness the Saga Charleston Radio Group announces the passing of Mike Edwards, Program Director of WMXZ-FM, Mix 95.5 and the 'Guy' from on the top rated 'Two Girls & a Guy' Morning Show." Saga's Charleston Radio Group President Paul O'Malley added that "Mike was an amazing person, beloved by his coworkers, listeners and our entire organization and will be truly missed by those fortunate to have crossed his path," said O'Malley. The circumstances surrounding Edwards death have yet to be released.

Paul Lambert Rises To Region President For iHeart Houston

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 6TH, 2024 - iHeartMedia announced today that Paul Lambert has been named Region President for iHeartMedia Houston, effective immediately. He will report to Eddie Martiny, Division President, iHeartMedia. “I have had the pleasure of working with Paul for over 20 years; I have witnessed him excel in numerous management roles and his track record has been remarkable. I am confident that Paul’s knowledge and leadership skills will allow iHeart Houston to continue its winning ways,” said Eddie Martiny.

Paul Lambert, a Louisiana native, has been working for iHeartMedia for the past 24 years and most recently served as Senior Vice President of Sales in Houston. He started as an account executive and rose through the ranks, working as Local Sales Manager, General Sales Manager and Director of Sales. “Under Eddie’s leadership, iHeartMedia Houston has had an almost unmatched winning record. I’m honored to carry the torch on behalf of our wonderful clients and the amazing team of iHeart individuals who make magic happen every day!” said Paul Lambert.

Cumulus Appoints Todd Cavanah As Vice President of Classic Hits

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 6TH, 2024 - Cumulus has named Todd Cavanah as Vice President of Classic Hits for the company. Cavanah will provide content counsel for Cumulus Media’s 24 Classic Hits-formatted radio brands across the U.S. In the newly created position, Cavanah will report to Brian Philips, Chief Content Officer, Cumulus Media. He will continue to be based in Chicago, IL, where he serves as Program Director for Classic Hits powerhouse 94.7 WLS-FM, Cumulus Media’s biggest Classic Hits station.

Cavanah joined Cumulus Media and WLS-FM last October, after 33 years at Audacy CHR B96/WBBM-FM in Chicago, where he was named Program Director in 1993. He also served as VP/Programming for CBS Radio Chicago and Audacy Chicago and programmed Country station, US 99/WUSN-FM, Classic Hits station, 104.3 K-Hits/WJMK-FM, and Classic Hip Hop station, 104.3 Jams/WBMX-FM.

Brian Philips said: “Todd Cavanah is a respected long-time winner, and a force of nature. He has radically re-energized WLS-FM, putting it back on top in Chicago. Todd is a natural fit to lead our Classic Hits formats, a prime example of the caliber of talent that Cumulus can bring to our most competitive markets.” Todd Cavanah commented: “It has been just over a year since I landed at Cumulus, and I am proud of the job our team has done taking 94.7 WLS to the top of the Chicago ratings. I am grateful to the company for allowing me the freedom to reinvent the Classic Hits format, and I’m eager to collaborate with the Cumulus fleet.”

Kevin Kietzman Joins The Lineup At Cumulus Media’s KCMO-AM/FM Kansas City Talk

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 6TH, 2024 - Cumulus Media (NASDAQ: CMLS) announces that KCMO, Kansas City’s Talk, 95.7FM and 710AM, has added longtime Kansas City broadcaster Kevin Kietzman to the station’s weekday programming lineup with the launch of his new midday show, "Kevin Kietzman Uncanceled.” The program debuted this week and airs on KCMO Monday through Friday from 10:00am-11:00am. Kietzman is a well-known voice in the Midwest, having hosted his highly successful Sports/Talk radio show in Kansas City for over two decades.

Donna Baker, Regional Vice President/Market Manager, Cumulus Kansas City, said: “Under Pete’s leadership, KCMO Talk Radio is one of the fastest growing stations in the Midwest. Kevin’s passion and commitment to his craft make him the perfect fit for the KCMO Talk Radio audience and our client partners.” Pete Mundo, KCMO Program Director and Morning Show Host, commented: “During my years in Kansas City, we have delivered on our promise, “If it’s happening IN KCMO, it's ON KCMO.” There are few who have entertained and informed Kansas City listeners for over two decades like Kevin Kietzman."

Kevin Kietzman said: “It’s great to be back on radio but even better to be a part of something as exciting as KCMO Talk Radio, now on 95.7 FM. I’ve known Pete Mundo for years and absolutely nobody in KC media works harder or is more dedicated to serving listeners than Pete and the management team at Cumulus Media. It’s a sweet spot to follow his popular morning show where Kansas City listens every day to learn what’s going on throughout Missouri and Kansas.”

New Country 96.3 'Hawkeye In The Morning' Collects 215,800 Holiday Cards Troops

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 6TH, 2024 - Cumulus Media’s New Country 96.3 (KSCS-FM) in Dallas, TX, announces that morning show co-hosts Mark "Hawkeye" Louis Michelle Rodriguez, of “Hawkeye in the Morning”, concluded the 6th annual 10,000 for the Troops holiday card drive this week, collecting a record 215,800 holiday cards for U.S. troops. More are expected to arrive in the mail in the next week. The station has partnered with Holiday Cards for Our Military Challenge, a 501(c)(3) organization based in New Hampshire, to send the holiday cards to units and individuals deployed overseas during the holiday season, are on a military base, or do not have support coming from home.

The campaign kicked off on October 21, 2024, with the goal of collecting 10,000 cards. This year, Comerica Bank stepped up as a Presenting Sponsor and provided card collection centers at over 50 Comerica Bank locations across the metroplex. Listeners and supporters could also mail their cards to New Country 96.3 studios or deliver them to any of the Dallas/Fort Worth Gigi’s Cupcakes, FASTSIGNS and participating IHOP locations. The 10,000 for the Troops effort was launched six years ago, and since then, New Country 96.3 has collected 653,247 cards for the troops.

"Each year we see our community get more involved with this effort. Six years ago, we started with one drop-off location, and now we have 80. The number of schools, offices, churches, and community groups that took part this year was staggering," comments Hawkeye and Michelle Rodriguez on the record-breaking campaign.

Sabrina Carpenter Tops iHeartRewind's 'Most Played Artists & Songs List' In 2024

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 6TH, 2024 - As we approach the end of 2024, it’s time once again for iHeartRewind: iHeartRadio’s list of most played artists and songs of the year. Before you jump into 2025, celebrate the beloved artists and iconic music that defined the year with iHeartRewind’s list of top artists and songs of 2024.

This year, Sabrina Carpenter took home top artist honors with over 2.3 billion total audience spins. Two of her hit songs, “Espresso” and “Feather” were also within Top 10 most played, but it was No. 4 overall artist Doja Cat’s “Agora Hills” with over 986.6 million spins that took the No. 1 spot in 2024.

The list shows: Top Overall Artists 2024 Sabrina Carpenter (2.35+ billion) Taylor Swift (2.2 billion) SZA (1.9 billion) Doja Cat (1.7 billion) Morgan Wallen (1.45 billion) Luke Combs (1.42+ billion) Post Malone (1.3 billion) Teddy Swims (1.12+ billion) Jelly Roll (1.11+ billion) Dua Lipa (1+ billion)

Top Overall Songs 2024 “Agora Hills” - Doja Cat (986.6+ million) “Lose Control” - Teddy Swims (946.8+ million) “Lovin On Me” - Jack Harlow (863.4+ million) “Beautiful Things” - Benson Boone (859+ million) “Espresso” - Sabrina Carpenter (852.2 million) “Feather” - Sabrina Carpenter (841.3 million) “Saturn” - SZA (787.1+ million) “Too Sweet” - Hozier (777.4 million) “Snooze” - SZA (764.5 million) “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” - Shaboozey (762.1 million)

Edison: Listeners 13+ Spend 32% Of Their Music-Listening Time With AM/FM And Radio Streams

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 5TH, 2024 - What do listeners in the U.S. spend 74% of their average daily audio time listening to? MUSIC! Three-quarters of daily audio time is spent listening to music. If podcast catalogs go back decades, music libraries go back hundreds of years (we’re looking at you Bach, Gershwin, and more) and those substantive libraries are available on a variety of audio platforms.

The graphic above shows the portion of time spent in the average audio day with various platforms when listeners consume music content. For listeners age 13+ in the U.S., 32% of their music-listening time is spent with AM/FM radio and radio streams, making radio the source used the most to deliver music content.

Streaming services such as Spotify, Apple, Amazon, Pandora, and YouTube Music follow very closely behind at 28%. YouTube for music and music videos accounts for 18% of daily music listening. Another 9% is spent with SiriusXM, 9% with Owned Music such as vinyl, CDs, or downloaded digital files, and 3% with Music Channels on TV such as Music Choice or Stingray. Keep in mind that this data is for listeners age 13+. If we only look at listeners ages 13-64, streaming passes AM/FM by one percentage point, with streaming accounting for 31% of music listening by this demo, and AM/FM accounting for 30%.

Florida Host Dies In Head-On Collision On Her Way To Work Barely A Month After Joining The Station

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 5TH, 2024 - I Am Country 106.9 FM morning show DJ Heather Jennings died Tuesday morning in a head-on collision on her way to work. According to a Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) release, a Gainesville. FL woman was driving a sedan southbound on State Road 121 when her vehicle crossed the center line and struck Jennings’ sedan, which was traveling north. Both drivers were transported to UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville, where they were pronounced deceased. Jennings was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident, and the other drive was not according to FHP. Jennings had just started her weekday show on MARC Media's WPLL I Am Country 106.9 FM in Gainesville, FL in November.

In a release from MARC Media posted by C.J. Gish at mainstreetdailynews.com, it stated: "An hour before sunrise today, I Am Country morning DJ Heather Jennings was driving to work on the country roads of Alachua County when her sedan was met head-on by another vehicle. She did not survive. We knew something was very wrong at 6 a.m. when patriotic Heather wasn’t standing at her mic, hand over her heart, proudly leading her audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. It was time to begin her signature broadcast, “The Heather Jennings Morning Show,” but instead her booth was silent. Then we got the dreaded phone call confirming that it was indeed Heather in that double-fatality crash. It’s a phone call we’ll never forget. We’re still grappling with the reality of that news, fervently praying for her two daughters, Dixie and Jacy, whom she loved beyond measure.

The released added, "It was barely a month ago when we welcomed her cheerful, creative personality to the MARC Radio airwaves." The radio stations in the Gainesville market include WXJZ 100.9 The Beach, WTMG 101.3 Magic, WDVH 94.1 R&B and WTMN 103.5 The Shepherd

Photo courtesy of C.J. Gish

iHeart And Charlamagne Tha God Launch Mandii B And WeezyWTF's 'Decisions, Decisions' Podcast

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 5TH, 2024 - iHeartPodcasts, Charlamagne Tha God’s Black Effect Podcast Network, MandiiB and WeezyWTF announced “Decisions, Decisions,” a podcast that will dive deep into the world of non-traditional relationships and explore the often-taboo topics surrounding dating, sex, and love in today’s modern world.

“As a network, we are committed to bringing bold, forward-thinking content to our audience,” said Dollie S. Bishop, President, The Black Effect Podcast Network. “Decisions, Decisions,” reflects not only the growth of the hosts, but the growing appetite for richer, more mature explorations of life. We are proud to be part of its continued expansion and success.” Every Monday and Wednesday, Mandii and Weezy will invite listeners to unlearn the outdated narratives dictated by traditional patriarchal norms. The new season will heavily lean into the ever-evolving lives of both co-hosts while also featuring some of their closest friends and your favorite celebrities and podcasters.

WeezyWTF and Mandii B are co-hosts of “Decisions, Decisions.” This dynamic duo has been featured on HBO, BET, Showtime, Refinery29, Quibi, Fuse, and Viceland. WeezyWTF is a sexpert, comedy writer, and podcaster living in New York. “Decisions, Decisions” trailer is available now with new episodes available on Mondays and Wednesdays beginning December 11. Listen now HERE.

Stars Take The Stage In Dallas/Fort Worth On First Stop Of iHeart's Jingle Ball Tour 2024

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 5TH, 2024 - iHeartRadio 106.1 KISS FM's Jingle Ball 2024 presented by Capital One hit the stage at the first stop of the national iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour 2024 at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, TX. The event featured iconic performances from Kane Brown, Meghan Trainor, Jason Derulo, Madison Beer, Saweetie, Shaboozey, Dasha, KATSEYE and Wonho.

The Dallas/Fort Worth crowd kicked off the tour with their holiday spirit in Texas last night. Dasha (shown) kicked off the night with her songs “Didn’t I?,” “Ain’t No Friend of Mine,” “Bye Bye Bye” and “Austin,” while stunning in her red dress. Then, Shaboozey got the crowd on their feet with several songs, ending with his hit “A Bar Song (Tipsy).”

106.1 KISS FM’s Jingle Ball 2024 is part of the national iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour Presented by Capital One, the season’s biggest annual holiday music event that captures the music and holiday spirit of the iHeartRadio app with performances by this year’s biggest artists in Dallas/Fort Worth; Los Angeles; Chicago; Detroit; New York; Boston; Philadelphia; Washington, D.C.; Atlanta; and Miami. iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour stops will be part of the exclusive network special on ABC, airing December 18, next day on Hulu. This year’s official charity is Kidd’s Kids – $1.00 of each ticket sold will be donated to the non-profit organization.

KOST 103.5's Ellen K Show And KTLA Join With The Children's Hospital For 9th Annual Fundraiser

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 4TH, 2024 - iHeart Ellen K Morning Show on KOST 103.5 and KTLA joined with Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) on Giving Tuesday, Dec. 3, to celebrate the global day of giving that takes place the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving. Giving Tuesday also kicks off CHLA’s annual Season of Giving campaign, which runs through the end of the year and appeals to the community and corporate partners to donate funds to support the leading pediatric care the hospital provides. Since 2016, more than $2.6 million has been raised for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles on Giving Tuesday.

“I am moved by the charitable contributions from the KOST and KTLA audiences, and the generosity of our corporate sponsors” Post this Starting with the Ellen K Morning Show, KOST 103.5 will dedicate 13 hours of programming to CHLA on Giving Tuesday, from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. Throughout the broadcast, Ellen was joined by her co-host, Ryan Manno, and KOST 103.5 personalities Kari Steele and Sandy Stec with patient stories of hope and healing, and the world-class care delivered every day at Children’s Hospital Los Angele

The broadcast will also feature celebrity guests, including Academy Award-winning actress, author, and children’s health advocate Jamie Lee Curtis, comedian and late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel, Grammy Award-winning musical artist Rob Thomas, and actress and Chair of the CHLA Foundation Board of Trustees Nikki DeLoach.

Stephen King's Bangor Stations To Sign Off For Good At The End Of This Month

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 3RD, 2024 - Stephen King’s radio stations are signing off for good at the end of the month. The Zone Corporation announced Monday morning that after 41 years of King’s ownership, WZON, WKIT, WZLO will sign off on Dec. 31. In a release, King cited losses in the millions of dollars and his advancing age as reasons for the shut down.

“While radio across the country has been overtaken by giant corporate broadcasting groups, I’ve loved being a local, independent owner all these years,” said King. “I’ve loved the people who’ve gone to these stations every day and entertained folks, kept the equipment running, and given local advertisers a way to connect with their customers. Tabby and I are proud to have been a part of that for more than four decades.”

According to WABI-TV, When internationally known author Stephen King first entered the radio business in 1983, it was with the enthusiasm and love of a lifelong rock and roll fan and as a listening member of the greater Bangor community. He also was a young man of 36 with a lifetime of creativity ahead of him. Now, in good health but feeling his 77 years, King says it’s time to “get his business affairs in better order,” and that means saying good-bye to the radio stations that he personally has kept afloat and on the air all these years.

Flagship station WZON, which first went on the air in Maine in 1926 as WLBZ, was purchased by the Kings in 1983. The call letters were changed to WZON, a nod to Stephen King’s best seller The Dead Zone and a rock and roll format was instituted. The station never made money and for a time, even surrendered its commercial status to become a donor supported enterprise. Ken Wood, General Manager of the stations for the last ten years is certainly sad to see the end but said he’s grateful for the Kings’ ownership and proud of the local voices that have a place in Maine’s colorful broadcast history. Background photo courtesy of WABI-TM, Stephen King photo/stephen.com

Report: YouTube Expands Its Lead As Top Platform For Podcasts; Watchable Podcasts Rising In Appeal

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 3RD, 2024 - Cumulus in partnership with Signal Hill Insights, released its Podcast Download Fall 2024 Report. A key finding uncovered in the report shows that YouTube has hit a new high as America’s primary podcast destination. In 2021, YouTube was the third most accessed destination for podcasts. In 2022, it tied Spotify as the platform used most among weekly podcast listeners. Now across two years’ worth of studies in 2023 and 2024, YouTube has pulled away from the pack and leads as the most used podcast audience platform in the U.S., hitting a new high of 34%.

For the thirteenth edition of the Podcast Download series, Cumulus Media and Signal Hill Insights retained MARU/Matchbox to conduct an in-depth study of 603 weekly podcast consumers from October 3-7, 2024.

Among the key takeaways: YouTube is used most among Podcast Newcomers, Podcast Pioneers, and heavy podcast consumers. Those who discover a podcast on YouTube say they stick with the platform for video, comments, community, entertainment, recommendations, and platform features However, the YouTube podcast audience is not exclusively tied to the platform.

Watchable podcasts are growing in popularity as 1 in 3 weekly podcast consumers now say they prefer actively watching podcasts with videos. Podcast Newcomers are more likely to prefer actively watching podcast videos. Preference for watchable video is a key driver in platform used most:

YouTube is a runaway #1 among podcast consumers who prefer podcasts via video - YouTube dominates association as the platform where podcasts can be watched and heard Younger podcast consumers are more likely to consume a podcast because of the thumbnail image on YouTube versus older podcast consumers Text and the podcast title on the thumbnail are the biggest reasons podcast consumers will pick a podcast on YouTube- See full report here

To sign up for the free webinar this Wednesday, December 4th, highlighting findings from the report, register here

99.5 The Wolf's Nick & Kristen Relieved $4.6 Million In Medical Debt For Pacific Northwest

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 3RD, 2024 - Audacy Portland’s 99.5 The Wolf’s “Nick and Kristen in the Morning” (KWJJ-FM) relieved $4.6 million in medical debt for the Pacific Northwest through “The Nick and Kristen’s Medical Debt Payoff.” The married morning show partnered with Undue Medical Debt and collected donations from November 18th to 22nd. With the local community’s contributions, “The Nick and Kristen’s Medical Debt Payoff” helped relieve medical debt for 3,345 people.

“We are once again humbled and inspired by the generosity of the 99.5 The Wolf listeners and local business owners,” said Nick and Kristen from “Nick and Kristen in the Morning.” “After four years, we’ve paid over $16 million in medical debt for the Pacific Northwest. As a married morning show, we’ve experienced the pain of medical debt and are overjoyed that thousands of families will enjoy a holiday free of medical debt thanks to the giving nature of our audience. ‘The Nick and Kristen Medical Debt Payoff’ proves that local radio can make a big impact in the lives of our community.”

Founded ten years ago, Undue Medical Debt is a national nonprofit with the mission to help end medical debt. This is the fourth year that “The Nick and Kristen’s Medical Debt Payoff” has partnered with the nonprofit, eradicating a total of $16 million in medical debt.

SummitMedia On The Hunt For National Promotions And Events Manager

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 3RD, 2024 - SummitMedia is on the hunt for anorganized, detail-oriented, strategic, and outgoing professional to support and lead our promotions and events teams nationally. The focus of this position is team leadership, attention to organization and detail, and system and process development. The role requires oversight of a remote team responsible for station promotions, contests, and events. Additionally, this position will manage events, lead the event teams, and assist on-site with major station events.

Among responsibilities will include overseeing all aspects of promotions, contesting, and events at SummitMedia. • Lead promotions and support teams nationally. • Identify and develop organizational systems, processes, and workflows. • Support various programming, marketing, and sales initiatives by managing projects. • Oversee prizing and winner fulfillment process. • Develop relationships with promotional partners, venues, vendors, and internal teams. • Negotiate and execute contracts with partners, venues, artists, vendors, and service providers.

Candidates must have knowledge of promotion software including but not limited to 365 - Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, TextGroove (mobile contesting), Audience (web contesting and user-generated content engine), and vPromotion (promotion and asset management software).

Qualifications require a minimum of 3 years of experience in media, event management, or entertainment.

[WATCH] Elvis Duran Talks 'The Magic Of Radio' During 'CBS Sunday Morning' Appearance

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 2ND, 2024 - CBS' Sunday Morning's Mo Rocca said on this weekend's edition, "If the annual Jingle Ball at New York's Madison Square Garden is the Super Bowl of holiday concerts, then Elvis Duran is in the role of head coach. But Duran says being interviewed for TV is different for him: "I'm not a camera guy, I'm a radio guy," he said. Since 1996 Duran has been host of The Premiere Network's "Elvis Duran and the Morning Show' which airs from Z100 New York.

"I've been working with some of the same people for 25-30 years," he said. "The energy with each other is what makes it work. I don't need to be the center of attention." But Duran laments,"Radio isn't what radio used to be. A lot of radio companies gave up on personalities; they just wanted to play music, it's cheaper. That's not good for our business. So, I've done everything I can to keep personality on a radio show in the mornings."

Duran attributes his success to everyday listeners with whom Duran feels a special bond. He said, "We are in the friendship business. I think about you when you hop in your car in the morning. You're either leaving a house that may be full of turmoil, or going to a job with a boss you don't like. But I have you for 20-30 minutes, and I can be your friend."

Duran's first real radio job came at age 14. After dropping out of college, he spent a decade bouncing between markets across the country. "Back in the old days in radio, you never unpacked, you never took dishes out of boxes, because you were always moving," he said. "But you know what, I've been very lucky. I've been at Z100 since 1989. So, I'm doing okay." Watch Interview Here

Fred Jacobs: A Very Different Marketing Storyline Taking Shape Between AI And Organic Storytelling

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 2ND, 2024 - In today's blog titled: 'Keepin' It Real On The Radio,' Fred Jacobs writes if you managed to spend time last weekend with family and friends, both at the dining room table or in front of the TV, you were in the majority. Much food and football were consumed these past several days, as is the custom for Thanksgiving Weekend in America. The festivities around the NFL gridiron over this past holiday weekend are also a precursor to what we may see during this year’s Super Bowl in New Orleans.

Jacobs points to ample sampling of new TV commercials aired over the weekend that tried to capture the spirit of the season. And as is often the case, the commercial breaks can be as engaging as some of the actual games. Marketers continue to lean on the storytelling theme again this year as brands try to get real with their messaging, spinning tales about their customers and how they interact with their products and services. One of the more intricate stories involved three generations of a rural American family and a classic 1978 Chevy C10 truck is a new story/ad called “The Sanctuary” shown in screengrab above.

There’s a long-form video that runs more than 5 minutes and feels like a mini-movie. If you’re so inclined, you can watch this “short story” here. The emphasis once again is on real people, real families, real situations, and real stories. In the meantime, a very different marketing storyline is taking shape between AI and organic storytelling during these same major television shows this season. The struggle between what is real and what is ChatGPT hit me while watching football this weekend in the form of ads for Coca-Cola and Apple, two of the biggest, classic American brands each showing their stuff during time-outs. Read Entire Blog Here

Edison: 29% Of The U.S. Population Age 13+ Who Listen To Audio In-Car Do So On A Mobile Phone

THE MOUTH, NOVEMBER 27TH, 2024 - If you’re traveling by car this Thanksgiving holiday, you’ll be sharing the road with 72 million of your closest friends, according to AAA, and your audio selections should certainly be counted among your road trip necessities. This week’s insight takes a closer look at in-car listening specifically on mobile devices.

In 2014, only 15% of in-car audio users listened on their phones in the car. Today that number has nearly doubled, and now 29% of the U.S. population age 13+ who listen to audio in-car do so on a mobile phone. This doesn’t necessarily mean that everyone in the car is listening to the same thing and participating in Wicked sing-alongs or solving the next true crime podcast together. Earbuds and individual devices mean that each occupant could be listening to something different.

And besides in-dash systems, phones can also be connected to the audio output through Bluetooth, aux cords, or USB cords, which means almost anyone can listen through a phone in their vehicle. The graphic above shows how Americans spend their in-car audio time when listening through a mobile phone. The majority of time listening in-car on a phone, 53%, is spent listening to streaming music services. With both free and paid apps at the ready, there are plenty of options for listeners who just want music. Listeners can opt for the linear nature of a streamed playlist or full control of on-demand selections.

The next most-listened-to type of audio is podcasts at 17%, and owned music such as downloaded digital files at 14%. Listening to music and music videos on YouTube accounts for 9% of listening on a phone in-car. Audiobooks clock in with 4% of the total. SiriusXM gets 1%, as nearly all of SiriusXM’s in-car listening is done through a satellite receiver, not a mobile phone.

The same holds for AM/FM Radio, where there is some listening to streams, but most all listening happens through the car radio. See full report here.

Kix Brooks To Exit As Host Of 'American Country Countdown,' Ryan Fox To Take Over As Host

THE MOUTH, NOVEMBER 26TH, 2024 - “American Country Countdown,” will say a fond farewell to Kix Brooks, after an impressive 18-year run as the syndicated Country countdown show’s host. Beginning the weekend of January 4-5, 2025, Country radio personality Ryan Fox will kick off a new year and a new generation of Country’s best music as the host of “American Country Countdown with Ryan Fox.” Kix Brooks’ final show will air the weekend of December 28-29, 2024.

Ryan Fox is currently On-Air Host, Mornings, at Dallas Country station 99.5 The Wolf. “American Country Countdown with Ryan Fox” will feature the fast-breaking new superstars like Jelly Roll, Morgan Wallen, Kane Brown, and Lainey Wilson. The weekend Country countdown show is heard on over 300 station affiliates across the U.S. Every weekend, “American Country Countdown

Gunner Jackson Steps Down As Morning Co-Host On 107.9 KMLE/Phoenix After 5-Year Run

THE MOUTH, NOVEMBER 26TH, 2024 - Following a 5-year run as co-host of KMLE Country 107.9's morning show in Phoenix with Cheyenne Davis, Gunner Jackson announced yesterday that he would be stepping down.

He posted on Instagram: "Just wanted you to hear the news from me first. I have stepped away from hosting the morning show on KMLE Country 107.9. I'll cherish the memories and relationships I've been able to make with our great listeners in The Valley. My family and I will be forever grateful for the love, support and prayers we received from you when my daughter Taytem went through her battle with cancer. Now I'm going to focus on what's best for my family and what is next for me in this industry I love."

Jackson and Davis joined KMLE-FM in December of 2019 after arriving from 92.9 The Bull/KDBL in Yakima, WA, where they hosted mornings. Jackson's prior stints included morning show producer at KBKS/Seattle, and PD/morning host at KYSN/Wenatchee, WA. Davis is currently riding mornings solo.

John Mayer To Launch 'How’s Life' Interview Series On SiriusXM

THE MOUTH, NOVEMBER 26TH, 2024 - SiriusXM announced that seven-time GRAMMY® Award-winning singer, songwriter John Mayer will launch “How’s Life,” a new interview series featuring intimate and extensive conversations with Mayer and some of the biggest names in music. Premiering at 8:00 pm ET on Thursday, November 28 on SiriusXM’s Life With John Mayer, the first episode features an in-depth, candid sit down with the legendary musician Billy Joel.

The first episode of “How’s Life” on Life With John Mayer (ch. 14) follows Mayer’s live broadcast from his SiriusXM Los Angeles studio on Thanksgiving day, where the conversation with Joel will cap off a day of playing music and taking calls beginning at 2:00 pm ET leading up to the premiere of the new series at 8:00 pm. Upcoming guests also include Shawn Mendes and Maren Morris.

The launch of the new series also marks one year of Mayer’s exclusive year-round channel, Life With John Mayer. The channel is an unparalleled musical experience curated by the guitarist and songwriter and is defined not by genre, but by the time of day as well as the day of the week. Eligible customers can get their first three months of SiriusXM streaming for free. Click here to sign up and experience all that SiriusXM has to offer.

True Crime Podcast Listeners Triple In Five Years

THE MOUTH, NOVEMBER 21ST, 2024 - Earlier this year, Edison Research and audiochuck presented The True Crime Consumer Report – a report on the rapidly expanding world of True Crime content of all kinds, naturally including podcasts. Data from Edison Podcast Metrics™ shows just how quickly this genre has grown. In 2019, we estimated that 6.7 million Americans age 18 and older listened to True Crime podcasts in an average week. This number has exploded to over 19.1 million such listeners today.

True Crime was in fifth place behind Sports in 2019, and now it has far surpassed that category and is in fourth place just behind News. Comedy, which has enjoyed significant growth as well, and Society & Culture remain the leaders overall. Propelled by talented storytellers with endlessly intriguing cases to tell, True Crime continues to make its mark. Click here to download the True Crime Consumer Report.

Trio Of Stations To Serve As Grand Marshals Of Christmas Parade For Their Service During Helene

THE MOUTH, NOVEMBER 20TH, 2024 - In recognition of the public service provided by a trio of radio stations during Hurricane Helene, the Town of Canton has named them grand marshals for the annual downtown Christmas parade. Canton's mayor Zeb Smathers tells The Smoky Mountain News, “When we lost cell communication across Western North Carolina, it was our local radio stations on FM and AM that carried us through. There's no doubt that lives were saved and hope was provided by these stations. One of the highest honors we can give in the town of Canton is grand marshal, especially for our Christmas parade. Honoring these local radio stations is a great way not only to celebrate the season, but also to say thank you.”

Among the stations honored include Canton-based WPTL-FM owned by Terryll Evans and in Asheville, two iHeart stations, 99.9 FM Kiss Country and 570 AM WWNC, were able to continue broadcasting throughout the storm, but the hosts did more than talk. They listened. Eddie and Amanda Foxx, along with Tank Spencer and Mark Starling, collected contact information from callers who needed help and connected those callers with other callers who wanted to deliver supplies, clear debris or conduct wellness checks. The Foxxes, along with Spencer and Starling, drew national attention for their efforts. Starling spent 14 days there on-air at the station (shown).

Despite ongoing debris removal, Canton’s Christmas parade will take place at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 5. Photos courtesy of Mark Starling.

PEW: About One-In-Five Americans Now Get Their News From Social Media Influencers

THE MOUTH, NOVEMBER 19TH, 2024 - About one in five Americans regularly get their news from digital influencers who are more likely to be found on the social media platform X, according to a report released Monday by the Pew Research Center. The findings were drawn from a survey of more than 10,000 U.S. adults and an analysis of social media posts posted this summer by influencers.

The project includes an in-depth examination of a sample of 500 popular news influencers and the content they produce, derived from a review of more than 28,000 social media accounts. We also conducted a nationally representative survey of Americans to better understand who regularly gets news from news influencers.

As shown in above graphic, key findings about news influencers show that About one-in-five Americans – including a much higher share of adults under 30 (37%) – say they regularly get news from influencers on social media.

News influencers are most likely to be found on the social media site X, where 85% have a presence. But many also are on other social media sites, such as Instagram (where 50% have an account) and YouTube (44%).

Slightly more news influencers explicitly identify as Republican, conservative or pro-Donald Trump (27% of news influencers) than Democratic, liberal or pro-Kamala Harris (21%).

A clear majority of news influencers are men (63%). Most (77%) have no affiliation or background with a news organization. Read full report here

BLOG: AM/FM Remains The 'Queen Of The Road

THE MOUTH, NOVEMBER 19TH, 2024 - For the last ten years, Edison Research’s quarterly “Share of Ear” study has been the authoritative examination of time spent with audio in America. Edison surveys 4,000 Americans annually to measure daily reach and time spent with all forms of audio. Each report is based on a four-quarter rolling average. The most recent Q3 2024 survey is comprised of Q4 2023, Q1 2024, Q2 2024, and Q3 2024.

Among major demographics, AM/FM radio is the dominant ad-supported audio platform. Podcasts have significant shares among younger age groups. Among African Americans, AM/FM radio is particularly strong. Podcast shares are not as strong as the general market. Among Hispanics, podcast shares are stunningly strong. Among 18-34 Hispanics, podcasts are now the number one ad-supported audio platform.

In the car, AM/FM is the “queen of the road” with an 86% share. Even among 18-34s, AM/FM radio has an 82% share of ad-supported audio. 13% of all AM/FM radio listening occurs via streaming, steady over the last three years. On the smart speaker, AM/FM radio dominates with a 50% share of ad-supported listening. Sadly for advertisers, most of Spotify’s audience is unavailable to place advertising. While Spotify’s ad-free subscription audience soars, it’s ad-supported shares stagnate at a two share. Streaming music audience growth comes at the expense of owned music rather than AM/FM radio. Check out complete blog here.

John Boy & Billy Signing Off Today On Its Longtime Flagship WRFX-FM Charlotte

Now On The Hunt For Next Flagship

THE MOUTH, NOVEMBER 15TH, 2024 - John Boy and Billy will air their final show today, Nov. 15, marking the final broadcast of “The Big Show” with John Boy and Billy on WRFX/99.7 the Fox, the station announced.

The Charlotte Observer reports that the station revealed the news in a pre-recorded on-air message this week: "The station “says farewell to the show after 38 great years together,” according to the message. “As the curtain falls, Charlotte says thank you.” The station announcement didn’t say why the show is ending.

The show, featuring Johnny “John Boy” Isley and Billy James, started at Charlotte’s WBCY in 1980 and later moved to WRFX. The show grew into a nationally syndicated behemoth that rivaled Rush Limbaugh and Howard Stern by the 2000s. James told the Observer on Wednesday, “I’m not sure I’m the right person to ask” when asked about the show. Read more here

Johnjay And Rich’s 2024 #LovePup Family Fest Draw Thousands Of Listeners To Vertuccio Farms

THE MOUTH, NOVEMBER 14TH, 2024 - Throughout the year, Premiere Networks-syndicated personalities Johnjay Van Es and Rich Berra – hosts of The Johnjay & Rich Show, give back with their #LOVEUP charity, which focuses on children living in foster care, and Johnjay and Blake Van Es’ pet project, #LOVEPUP, which re-homes dogs at no cost to the adoptive family. The duo held their annual #LOVEPUP FAMILY FEST this past weekend featuring a day full of music, food and puppies at Vertuccio Farms on November 9.

With an audience estimated at 7,000 to 10,000 listeners, #LOVEPUP FAMILY FEST welcomed dog rescues from all over Arizona, who found forever homes for nearly all of their adoptable pets. The special event also featured musical performances by Country star Austin Burke, Shinedown and The Rich Berra Band.

The brainchild of Johnjay Van Es, #LOVEPUP FAMILY FEST brings hundreds of thousands of dollars in non-spot revenue to participating radio stations. The event has expanded to other markets including Dallas, Colorado, Georgia and Portland with great success. Affiliates interested in having the #LOVEPUP FAMILY FEST in their market can contact Johnjay@iheartmedia.com.

Bottom Photo/ Pictured left to right: Tim Dalbec, VP of Promotions at Atlantic Records; Johnjay Van Es; Brent Smith from Shinedown; Alissa Pollack, EVP Global Music Marketing at iHeartMedia; and Mark Medina, SVP of Programming, iHeartMedia Phoenix

Maxwell Crosses The Hall To 103.5 KTU From Z100 New York

THE MOUTH, NOVEMBER 11TH, 2024 - iHeartMedia’s 103.5 KTU, The Beat of New York, announced today the addition of market veteran Maxwell. Debuting November 14, 2024, The Maxwell Show will broadcast live weekdays from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.

“We are so excited to welcome Maxwell to the KTU family,” said Chris Conley, Program Director of 103.5 KTU. “Maxwell’s charisma, humor, and ability to connect with his audience make him the perfect addition to our lineup. We’re confident that listeners will love what he brings to the table in the afternoon time slot.”

“I’m truly blessed to take this next step in my career, and honored to join another iconic New York station, KTU,” said Maxwell. “Thank you to everyone who has supported me on this amazing journey. I’m excited to continue bringing my unique energy and passion for entertaining to the greatest city in the world!”

For the past 10 years, he has been a prominent voice on The World Famous Z100. In addition to his work on Z100, Maxwell can be heard on iHeartRadio’s heritage Top 40 station WNCI 97.9 in Columbus, Ohio, and across the nation as part of iHeartRadio’s national custom talent on-air team.

P1 MEDIA: Bobby Helms' 'Jingle Bell Rock' Remains On Top Of America’s Best Testing Christmas Songs

THE MOUTH, NOVEMBER 6TH, 2024 - P1 Media Group has once again surveyed radio listeners nationwide who were likely to listen to an all-Christmas music radio station during the holiday season. We tested the appeal of the 100 most-played Christmas songs from the 2023 Holiday Season, according to Mediabase. Key Findings show that “Jingle Bell Rock” by Bobby Helm remains America’s #1 best-testing Christmas song for seven of the past 8 years.

“Christmas music’s appeal remains as strong as ever amongst American radio listeners who listen to All Christmas stations ‘frequently’ or ‘sometimes’ and personally enjoy Christmas music on a local radio station during the holiday season,” says Ken Benson, Partner, and co-founder, of P1 Media Group.

• The Holiday standards dominate the Top 100 with five versions of “Santa Claus is Coming to Town, “Sleigh Ride,” and “Winter Wonderland” making the list. Three Artists, Amy Grant, Frank Sinatra, and Andy Williams, have four songs in the Top 100.

• Women score Christmas music on average four points higher than Men. Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You” is the #1 tester for Women, while Jose Feliciano’s “Feliz Navidad” is #1 for Men. The top testing Christmas songs by age are: 8-24 “All I Want for Christmas is You” Mariah Carey o 25-34 “Have a Holly Jolly Christmas” Michael Buble with Burle Ives version a close second. o 35-44 “Ring Christmas Bells” Ray Conniff : 45-54 “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” Any Williams.

The favorability of Christmas music remains strong. Seventy of the Top 100 songs tested with an appeal score of 75 or higher on a 100-point scale, and 95 songs tested 70 or higher. More say Christmas Music should begin in early November this year than last. See full report here



On-Air 'Heroes' Mark Starling And Tank Spencer Join For 'United Way Hurricane Relief TV Special'

CBS Television and CMT Will Air One-Hour Special at 8 p.m. ET Saturday

THE MOUTH, OCTOBER 31ST, 2024 - United Way Worldwide (UWW) and Paramount Global together announce the UNITED WAY BENEFIT FOR HURRICANE RELIEF™, will air Saturday, Nov. 2 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network and CMT, and available to stream live on Paramount+ with SHOWTIME*. The one-hour special will bring together some of the biggest names across music, television and entertainment to mobilize communities and raise critical funds for relief and recovery following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which caused an estimated $50 billion in damage.

Joining the event will be radio's Mark Starling and Tank Spencer (shown above) who were featured on CBS-TV's 'Eye on America' following their 13-day on-air marathon from 570 WWNC AM Radio in Western North Carolina during Hurricane Helene. They served as a lifeline for those stranded with nearby resources.

The UNITED WAY BENEFIT FOR HURRICANE RELIEF will include performances from Brittney Spencer, Chris Janson, Clay Aiken, Jonathan McReynolds and Tyler Hubbard with special messages and appearances by Backstreet Boys, Billy Bob Thornton, Billy Burke, Blake Shelton, Carly Pearce, Cedric The Entertainer, Cody Alan, Jackson Dean, JB SMOOVE, Kelsea Ballerini, Max Thieriot, Nate Burleson, Stephen Colbert, Taye Diggs, Zac Brown Band and more.

“In times of crisis, United Way mobilizes the caring power of communities to help people in need,” said Angela F. Williams, president and CEO of UWW. “United Way Benefit for Hurricane Relief is an opportunity to unite people to help the individuals and families impacted by the devastating hurricanes. Because united is the way to create long-term and lasting resiliency for individuals, families and communities.” To learn more about the Benefit, go to www.unitedway.org/benefit. Photo/United Way and middle photo courtesy of Mark Starling.

Owners Of The Radio Tower In Houston Hit By Helicopter Issues Statement On Deadly Crash

THE MOUTH, OCTOBER 22ND, 2024 - The owners of the radio tower hit by a helicopter near downtown Houston Sunday night have released a statement on the deadly crash. According to KHOU 11 TV Houston, the crash happened along Navigation Boulevard near North Ennis Street in the Second Ward. In a news conference Monday, the National Transportation Safety Board confirmed the helicopter didn't have a flight data recorder and wasn't required to. Four people onboard the R44 aircraft, including a child, died in the crash. Their identities have not been released.

According to a company spokesperson, SBA Communications recently acquired the tower. It was previously owned in part by Univision and sold in a transaction with several other towers in September. SBA manages transmission towers in several other countries. "We are in the process of cooperating with authorities on a full investigation. This is a tragic incident, and we ask everyone to please keep the deceased and their families in their thoughts and prayers," the company said in the statement.

Audacy To Unveil Nashville Sound Space In The Heart Of Music City On September 5

THE MOUTH, AUGUST 27TH, 2024 - Audacy prepares to unveil the Company’s seventh broadcast sound space, the Audacy Nashville Sound Space, located in the historic building of the Hard Rock Cafe on Broadway in Nashville, Tennessee, on Thursday, September 5.

The Studio will launch with an exclusive grand opening event and ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring Country music superstar Thomas Rhett. It will also serve as the new home of “Katie & Company,” Audacy’s nationally syndicated Country show, hosted by Katie Neal, winner of the 2024 ACM National Daily On-Air Personality of the Year award.

Underscoring Audacy’s commitment to the Country music format and to the artist, label, management and songwriter communities in Nashville, the Studio’s launch follows Audacy’s expansion of “Katie & Company” to 37 Audacy-owned and partner affiliate stations. With the show surpassing 2.7 million listeners each week, Neal’s daily interviews with the nation’s top Country artists have become industry-leading moments for fans and coveted opportunities for Audacy’s advertising partners. Audacy’s 20 owned and operated Country brands reach nearly 14 million listeners per month.

“A permanent presence in Music City continues to elevate Audacy’s commitment to Country music and live events,” said Jeff Sottolano, Chief Programming Officer, Audacy. “The proximity of a professional studio coupled with an intimate performance venue and the singular talent of Katie Neal as a host and interviewer enables us to produce exclusive experiences for listeners and simultaneously, a seamless transition for artists to move between the studio and stage. The Audacy Nashville Sound Space will be the heartbeat of our Country music format.” Photos/Audacy

Study: Podcast Audiences Want Relevant Topics And Humor In Podcast Promos

THE MOUTH, AUGUST 27TH, 2024 - The Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group® presented a keynote at The Podcast Movement along with Amplifi Media and System1. The topic of the discussion was “Unleashing the Power of Effective Audio Promos” and included findings from a study conducted in partnership with Knit, a survey platform that collects video responses. This week’s blog summarizes: Most podcast listeners are open to finding a new podcast: The majority of podcast listeners say they are at least open to finding a new podcast, if not actively searching.

Context matters: Respondents said a good podcast promo is one that is relevant to the podcast it’s on when it is being promoted. Podcast promos that don’t match the context of the podcast are deemed as “bad” and sometimes consumers even zone out. Showmanship is important: Video respondents said that being entertaining in podcast promos is a good way to capture their attention.

New Knit Podcast Consumer Study: Podcast Audiences Have An Appetite For New Podcasts And Want Relevant Topics And Humor In Podcast Promos August 26, 2024 By Lauren Vetrano Click here to view or download the slides. Cumulus Media | Westwood One Audio Active Group® presented a keynote last Thursday along with Amplifi Media and System1. The topic of the discussion was “Unleashing the Power of Effective Audio Promos” and included findings from a study conducted in partnership with Knit, a survey platform that collects video responses.

In September 2023, Knit conducted an online survey of 156 monthly podcast consumers. They were asked about their openness to new podcasts as well as what would have to be included in a podcast promo to entice them to listen. “We were excited to partner with Cumulus Media | Westwood One on this research, leveraging our AI platform to empower their team to conduct this qualitative research at scale. Combining our technological capabilities with their deep expertise in podcast advertising, we uncovered crucial insights into what drives podcast discovery and listener engagement,” said Aneesh Dhawan, Knit CEO. “The study reveals the importance of relevant, thought-provoking content, the power of humor in capturing attention, and other key factors that make podcast promos truly effective.” See report HERE.

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More Than 40-Years Later, Children's Miracle Newwork Still Making Miracles Happen With An Assist From Radio

As the holidays approach, radio stations coast to coast are already gearing up for countless radiothons, toy drives and other events to help brighten the holidays for those in need. Among its many partners in these endeavors is Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. At this year's Morning Show Boot Camp we were honored to be joined by Fleur Voruz Senior Director, Media for CMNH. Fleur took the stage and shared a number of stories and videos of their past events with radio. The hospital also received huge praise from Premiere syndicated host Delilah during her 'Airblazer Award' acceptance speech.

Of note, The hospital was founded more than 40 years ago with the vision to Change Kids’ Health, Change the Future. Since then it's raised over $9 billion for 170 children’s hospitals. All donations benefit local member hospitals to fund what’s needed most, like financial assistance for families who could not otherwise afford these health services.

Annually, Radiothons across the country amplify the mission of children's hospitals, engaging millions of listeners. coverage in top 50 markets raised for kids High profile station personalities highlight patient journeys, healthcare workers, and the critical needs of the hospital while recognizing the amazing support of corporate partners.

CMN reminds us at its website that radio is the original social media, where the influencers are the local radio personalities keeping listeners informed and entertained. Radio reaches 90% of households who contributed money in the past 12 months to a healthcare/medical cause or organization. They add that the foundation of the strong emotional connection consumers have with their radio stations is driven by their favorite radio station personalities on their favorite radio station. 61% of radio listeners tune in because of the radio DJs or radio hosts on-air.¹ 85% say TRUST is the most important quality they look for in an influencer.² 79% of marketers consider radio station on-air personalities as celebrity influencers.

For those interested in learning more about CMNH and how to team with them in future radiothons, reach Fleur Voruz Senior Director, Programs Media fvoruz@cmnhospitals.org 412-414-9703.

Cox Media Group Investigative Reporting Wins National Honor ‘Social Security’s Secret’ Earns National Press Foundation Award

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 10TH, 2024 - Cox Media Group’s Investigative Reporting team and KFF Health News won the 2024 National Press Foundation’s Feddie Reporting Award. This annual award recognizes outstanding reporting about the impact of federal laws and regulations on local communities. CMG and KFF Health News earned this national recognition for “Social Security’s Secret,” a 60-minute news special based on its investigative series, “Overpayment Outrage.” The special showed how a dozen reporters from across all of CMG’s local television stations and KFF Health News worked together to expose the real-world impacts of Social Security Administration (SSA) overpayment clawbacks. It featured personal stories of more than three dozen people to highlight how burdensome the SSA’s clawbacks had become for thousands of benefit recipients. “Social Security’s Secret” aired on in all of CMG’s TV markets and on its streaming platforms. "We wake up every day with the goal of positively impacting our viewers and the communities we serve," said Marian Pittman, CMG’s President of Content & Innovation. "It’s extra gratifying when those efforts are awarded, especially from an organization like the National Press Foundation. This recognition is a testament to the incredible commitment and dogged determination of our investigative teams, which relentlessly pursue stories that matter to our communities and help protect consumers.” As a result of CMG’s reporting, the Social Security Administration announced sweeping policy changes to stop what SSA Commissioner Martin O’Malley called the “clawback cruelty” of withholding 100 percent of people’s benefits to recoup overpayments. Instead, the agency will now default to a 10 percent withholding for those who don’t respond to notices. O’Malley also vowed to make overpayment notices easier to understand and to shift the burden of proof from the beneficiaries to the agency. “Sometimes it takes a crisis. Sometimes it takes an organization like yours lifting up a shortcoming for us to look at our data differently,” said Social Security Commissioner Martin O’Malley during a March interview with CMG. “We couldn’t allow this injustice to continue.” The agency has since restored benefits for many of the people featured in CMG and KFF’s stories, plus many others. “It’s our privilege and responsibility to shed light on problems like these, which affect so many people in our local communities,” said Jodie Fleischer, CMG’s managing editor for investigative content and collaborations. "When our reporting encourages those in power to take action to improve the lives of millions of people, it just reaffirms our mission to protect consumers and positively impact the people and communities we serve.”

Alex Cooper Reveals Her Candid Advice for Other Entrepreneurs Looking to Make It: ‘Trust Your Gut’ (Exclusive)

Alex Cooper knows all about making it as an entrepreneur — and she's now sharing her advice on how to do the same. "My advice to everyone that is trying to start businesses is don't get sidetracked," the Call Her Daddy podcast host, 30, tells PEOPLE exclusively. "Don't try to appease everyone. Don't try to do a million things at once," continues Cooper, who recently launched her new Unwell Hydration beverage line. "If you focus on the one thing that you are educated on, and you are essentially a savant in, then just focus on that and trust your gut because trying to appease everyone is not going to get you anywhere," the star adds.

Cooper created her popular podcast back in 2018. Call Her Daddy was then acquired by Barstool Sports one month after its first episode premiered. In 2021, Cooper signed a three-year deal with Spotify worth $60 million for Call Her Daddy. Next year, the podcast will move to SiriusXM. (Multiple outlets reported that the deal is said to be worth over $100 million.)

"I am beyond excited to work with SiriusXM. The Daddy Gang will always be my top priority, and with SiriusXM, we will continue to find new ways to evolve and provide my listeners the best experience," Cooper said in a statement. "The Daddy Gang wants more, so we're getting ready to give them more…I can't wait for this new chapter to begin." Cooper also started The Unwell Network, which is described on its website as "a home for new shows, creators and experiences all centered around our true lives and real conversations,"

Alex Cooper Says Her Health and Wellness Routine 'Changes Every Single Day': 'Life Happens' (Exclusive) According to Cooper, those interested in becoming entrepreneurs should also find a way to make themselves — and their ideas — stand out. "Being in the space of social media, I think there's just so many ideas and things that you can gravitate towards," she explains. "There's so many people that are doing so many different things that, as an entrepreneur, every day you could come up with a new idea." "I think sticking to one idea and making it the main thing is how I've succeeded with Call Her Daddy," Cooper continues. She adds: "For almost five years, I did nothing but Call Her Daddy, and I just grinded. I didn't take brand deals, I didn't put my face next to other products — I just focused on the main thing."

What’s that Smell? It’s 102.9 The HOG’s 13th Annual BACONFEST MILWAUKEE Farmland® and Patrick Cudahy to serve up 900 pounds of mouth-watering bacon. MILWAUKEE, Wis. – (December 9th, 2024) – 102.9 The HOG / WHQG returns to Potawatomi Casino Hotel for the 13th annual Baconfest Milwaukee. The annual affair is a celebration of “all things bacon” with presenting sponsors, Farmland® and Patrick Cudahy, providing 900 pounds of delicious bacon. Thousands of participants will sample incredible bacon creations from over 30 restaurants and establishments in the greater-Milwaukee area. There will also be guest appearances from popular 102.9 The HOG personalities Bob & Brian, Mindy Novotny, and Borna and Mandy. 102.9 The HOG’s Baconfest Milwaukee is an official qualifying event of the World Food Championships. Select restaurants will compete to earn a “Golden Ticket” to participate in the Bacon World Food Championship in November 2025 – where the winner takes home $100,000. All Attendees also receive a Limited Edition Baconfest 2025 item, and $20 Potawatomi Casino Hotel Fire Keeper’s Club Reward Play. Baconfest Milwaukee happens Sunday Feb 23rd, at the Event Center inside Potawatomi Casino Hotel from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to www.baconfestmke.com. WHQG is owned by Lakefront Communications LLC dba Milwaukee Media Group. Lakefront is a subsidiary of Saga Communications, Inc., a broadcasting company whose business is devoted to acquiring, developing and operating broadcast properties. The Company owns or operates broadcast properties in 27 markets, including 79 FM and 34 AM radio stations, and 77 metro signals.

DELILAH CO-HOSTS 106.7 LITE FM’S SKATING IN CENTRAL PARK AND CHATS WITH MARKETWATCH IN NEW YORK CITY LOS ANGELES, December 9, 2024 – Premiere Networks-syndicated personality Delilah – the most-listened-to woman on radio – returned as a co-host of 106.7 Lite FM’s annual Skating in Central Park event on Saturday, December 7. Delilah joined local Lite FM personalities Rich Kaminsky, Cubby, Christine Nagy and Helen Little at Wollman Rink in the heart of Central Park in New York to ring in the holiday season and meet fans and listeners. See photos attached and below. While she was in New York, Delilah spoke to MarketWatch for a wide-ranging interview covering her life and career, her views on money, and her advice on how to navigate those potentially quarrelsome family holiday meals. On radio’s status as the leading mass reach medium, Delilah tells MarketWatch: “…It’s the most consumed media on a daily basis. Hands down above any other form of media, every single day... I have generational listeners, I have grandparents, parents, children and now, grandchildren and great-grandchildren that listen to me, that come to my events, that seek out the radio show every single night. It’s a part of their family routine.” Delilah also shared her advice for keeping the peace during a family holiday meal: “Shut your mouth! If what’s coming out of your face isn’t motivated by love, don’t say it. You’re not going to win an argument with somebody — if you are divided politically, if you are divided spiritually, whatever — by arguing that you are right, and they are wrong. The only way you will ever convince somebody to look at things your way is if you live a life that is filled with love, if you live a life of Integrity, if you live a life that glorifies something bigger than you, then you will lead them by example.” Read the interview HERE.

The Steve & Susan Show Exit Mornings At WQLH-FM Green Bay

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 10TH, 2024 - Steve Davis, who spent the last 25 years at Star 98 (WQLH-FM), and Susan Kennedy, his morning show partner for the last two years, announced they’ve been let go from The Cumulus Green Bay outlet.

The Green Bay Press Gazette reports that the duo were laid off after their Tuesday broadcast, according to a joint video they each shared on their personal Facebook pages. “It was a shock to both of us. Neither one of us were expecting that to happen,” Davis said in the video. Cumulus Media, which owns Star 98, confirmed to the Green Bay Press-Gazette Monday that Davis and Kennedy are no longer with the company.

“This was 100 percent a budgetary reason, which I know a lot of companies are dealing with, but especially in media,” Kennedy said in the video. “Television right now, radio obviously, has been dealing with this with the release of talent, and unfortunately, Steve and I were ... two of the ones that have been affected by these very large layoffs throughout the entire country.”

Star 98 has not posted an announcement on its social media regarding Davis and Kennedy’s departure. The Gazette says, Program director Jimmy Clark, a longtime employee at the station, was on the air Monday during the morning slot. He is the lone local air talent listed on the station's website alongside syndicated shows.

After Midnite With Granger Smith Presents: A Smith Family Christmas Special

THE MOUTH, DECEMBER 9TH, 2024 - Premiere Networks announced that After MidNite with Granger Smith will once again provide an exclusive Christmas special for Country radio stations. The four-hour, barter-free After MidNite with Granger Smith Presents: A Smith Family Christmas Special will feature conversations with Country music stars, including Dan and Shay, Lee Brice, Brooks & Dunn, Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood and others.

After MidNite with Granger Smith Presents: A Smith Family Christmas Special is available to affiliates and open markets to air anytime over the holiday from December 20 - 31, 2024. Interested stations should contact Premiere Networks’ Affiliate Sales department at Affiliates@PremiereNetworks.com.

vCreative Taps Orbyt Media for Ad Sales and Representation Throughout Canada **PLEASE HOLD UNTIL MIDNIGHT** Toronto, ON – December 11, 2024 – vCreative, the leading provider of media workflow software solutions for radio and beyond, has partnered with Orbyt Media for exclusive ad sales and affiliate representation throughout Canada. Orbyt Media will now serve as the exclusive market development partner for vCreative’s comprehensive suite of tools, including vPPO, vProMedia, vPromotions, PromoSuite Next, PromoSuite Mail and more. Used by thousands of radio professionals across North America, vCreative provides stations with essential tools to streamline local and multi-market creative production, events, promotions, and interdepartmental workflows. This partnership will expand vCreative’s footprint in Canada, giving Canadian broadcasters access to cutting-edge tools that will revolutionize their radio operations. Mary DelGrande, Chief Executive Officer of vCreative, commented, “We look forward to partnering with Orbyt Media to broaden our presence in the Canadian market. Their deep industry expertise, extensive network of broadcast partners, and strong reputation for delivering exceptional solutions perfectly complement vCreative's mission to deliver time-saving tools to the broadcast industry, making them an ideal partner for this collaboration.” Heather Edwards, Affiliate Specialist at Orbyt Media, added, “We are excited to bring vCreative’s world-class tools to Canadian broadcasters. Their innovative software solutions are already transforming workflows for stations across North America, and we’re confident that vCreative will have an equally profound impact on the Canadian radio market.” For more information about vCreative’s products and services, contact Heather Edwards at 416.735.4863 or heather.edwards@orbytmedia.com.