Talentmasters' 38th Annual Morning Show Boot Camp Makes Its First-Ever Stop In Cleveland
[WATCH] Doug Podell's Retirement Announcement Draws TV Spotlight In Detroit
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 12TH, 2025 – Following this week's announcement (JL 11/10) that iHeart's longtime host Doug “Doc of Rock” Podell would be retiring from 106.7 WLLZ/Wheels on December 5, FOX 2 News Detroit's Lauren Edwards caught up with Podell at the station for an interview. He tells Edwards that following the announcement, he took a lot of calls, including one from Ted Nugent. He added that with his birthday (on Tuesday) "I'll be 73. It really was time."
With prior stops in Minneapolis and Cleveland, he counts working with Howard Stern as Manager in Cleveland at 98.5 WNCX and becoming his 3rd affiliate and going number 1, was among his many career highlights. As for Detroit, he say "It loves its radio. It loves its rock and roll -- and it especially loves its radio personalities and I love them back.'
Podell said in a station release, “It’s been an incredible ride. From my earliest days at WABX to returning to WLLZ, where I first took on a leadership role, it feels like the perfect place to sign off. I’ve been lucky to spend 50 years doing what I love, in the city I love, surrounded by listeners who made it all worth it.” Photo/Screengrab FOX 2 - WATCH HERE
Fred Jacobs: Radio Makes It Way Back To TV; Filmed In The Former Home Of WPTF Durham, NC
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 12TH, 2025 – In Fred Jacob's latest blog he points to radio's return to the spotlight in Netflix's highly popular series: 'Stranger Things.' Jacobs says, "Over the decades, radio has had its share of pop culture moments—on TV and in movies, in particular. From Good Morning, Vietnam to WKRP, AM and FM stations have enjoyed their cameos as settings and even as plot devices.
Whether it was Kelsey Grammar’s “Frasier Crane” or Clint Eastwood’s late night DJ in 'Play Misty For Me,' radio has often been in the Hollywood spotlight. But it’s been awhile. As radio has found itself under attack, primarily by digital media, the times when stations and DJs have had their moments in the sun have diminished. The days when you tell someone you work in radio, you’re likely to hear the retort, “Does anyone listen to radio anymore?”
"That’s why I perked up when I learned the ultra-popular Netflix show, 'Stranger Things,' will make radio a centerpiece in its season 5, the show’s finale," Jacobs says. "Matt and Ross Duffer created Stranger Things way back in 2016, and the show has enjoyed an impressive run. It has been especially popular among 18-29 year-olds, as well as broader audiences that appreciate its 1980s setting."
Jacobs says, "Stranger Things has proved it has the power to resuscitate past hits. Last season, Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill“—a 1985 release—made an incredible comeback thanks to the show. In fact, it became an even bigger hit than when it was originally released. I blogged about it when the song—and Bush—returned to the pop culture center stage thanks to the appeal of Stranger Things. You can check it out here.
So, the question is, could the show help shine a spotlight on the glamor, mystery, and rich history of radio when the first episode of the new season drops on November 26? Will today’s young people watch the show and come away with a positive feeling about radio and working in radio stations?
Interestingly, the show’s producer based WSQK on a real radio station—WPTF in Durham, North Carolina—owned by Don Curtis of Curtis Media. The art deco building is no longer in use, but the structure itself is reminiscent of how radio stations looked eighty years or so years ago. Read complete blog HERE - Photo/Netflix
WGN Radio Receives Three Silver Dome Awards From The Illinois Broadcasters Association
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 12TH, 2025 – WGN Radio earned three awards at the 2025 Illinois Broadcasters Association (IBA) Silver Dome Awards, including two honors for the WGN Radio newsroom. The awards, which recognize the top-tier in Illinois broadcasting, were announced on November 6 at a reception held at the Intercontinental Hotel in Chicago. IBA also recognized Dave Eanet, whose two stints on WGN Radio encompass more than 30 years, with the 2025 Chicago/W. Russell Withers Jr. Broadcast Pioneer Award.
Eanet is the voice of Northwestern Wildcat football and men’s basketball as well as serving as a fill-in anchor on the WGN-TV sports desk. He is a respected voice in college athletics and has been synonymous with Northwestern football radio broadcasts since 1990.
WGN Radio received the following Silver Dome Awards: Best Continuing Coverage – “Trial of Michael Madigan” | Credit: WGN Radio Best Feature – “Chicago Teachers Told to Pass Migrant Students” | Credit: Sylvia Snowden, Ryan Burrow Best Radio Personality – John Williams | Credit: John Williams
Radio Hall of Famer Mike McVay Joins Kelly Orchard To 'Flip The Format On Fear'
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 12TH, 2025 – Radio Hall of Fame inductee and veteran media consultant Mike McVay has partnered with second-generation broadcaster-turned-psychotherapist Kelly Orchard on a new project aimed squarely at radio’s most human challenge: the fear of failure. Their collaboration, Flipping the Format on the Fear of Failure, draws from Orchard’s decades in broadcasting and clinical mental-health work to provide a framework of emotional intelligence and positive leadership that resonates across every level of the industry.
“This project captured my interest because of the human need that exists,” said Mike McVay, founder of McVay Media Consulting. “People in our industry are facing more than ratings pressure; they’re facing uncertainty, stress, and burnout. Kelly’s approach connects those realities to real, actionable tools.” The book introduces Orchard’s W.K.R.P. Framework—Winning Mindset, Know Thyself, Resilience / Responsibility / Respect, and Positive Psychology—a modern operating system for managers, programmers, and talent navigating disruption. Each section blends Orchard’s professional therapy training with authentic stories from inside America’s radio stations.
“Radio taught me how to lead, how to fail, and how to get back up,” said Kelly Orchard, M.A., LMFT. “I was raised in the business—my father engineered the first ‘Boss Radio’ broadcast at KHJ in Los Angeles—and those lessons shaped my work as a therapist. Now I get to give them back to the industry that raised me.”
Her earlier book, the psychological-thriller Dead Air: The Day the Music Died, released earlier this year, also explores the emotional cost of silence and fear—this time through fiction. Together, McVay and Orchard are developing companion workshops and presentations designed to help stations and corporate groups “flip their internal format” by strengthening mindset, communication, and culture. Their message: mental health and leadership health are inseparable.
Talentmasters' 38th Annual Morning Show Boot Camp To Make First-Ever Stop In Cleveland
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 12TH, 2025 – Talentmasters' 38th Annual Morning Show Boot (MSBC) is making its first-ever trip to Cleveland, Ohio, the home of Rock and Roll. MSBC host/founder Don Anthony says, "We're most pleased to name Cleveland as the host city for MSBC 38 in 2026. When choosing each year's location, there are typically three important factors that contribute to our decision. As always, we first select a city that's easily accessible by air or a city that can be traveled to by car from numerous surrounding cities. One look at a map and you'll see that Cleveland is a fairly short drive from several top cities, including Detroit, Pittsburgh, Toledo, Cincinnati, and several others."
Anthony also noted that this year's hotel is close to numerous restaurants and entertainment spots. "The Hilton Cleveland Downtown is located in the heart of Downtown Cleveland, close not only to several top food and entertainment spots, but near landmarks such as The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and the famous Euclid Avenue District."
Finances and budgets are tight for many in the business, so it was important to MSBC organizers that affordability for our attendees and sponsors remain a top concern for choosing this year's location. As a result, we're happy to share that The Hilton is now offering attendees our lowest nightly rate in years (you can book now at the link below).
To celebrate the announcement of next year's choice city, MSBC is selling a small batch of tickets for just $267 (regularly $465).* Once they're gone, they're gone! No encores. Here's one last chance to grab one HERE . *Some restrictions apply.
Picklejar And Local Radio Networks Announce National Distribution Partnership
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 12TH, 2025 – PickleJar Entertainment Group announced a new strategic broadcast partnership with Local Radio Networks (LRN) to serve as the national distribution partner for its flagship overnight country radio show, PickleJar Up All Night. Hosted by Katie Cook and Scott Gaines, PickleJar’s curated blend of artist stories, exclusive performances, and fan-driven interaction brings the energy and authenticity of Nashville’s country music scene to listeners everywhere. This partnership introduces new audience engagement features in the PickleJar Live App to new audiences across the LRN broadcast platform.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Local Radio Networks to take PickleJar Up All Night to stations across the country,” said Kristian Barowsky, President and Co-Founder of PickleJar Entertainment Group. “LRN’s infrastructure and broadcast expertise make them the ideal partner to help us deliver our vision of connecting artists, fans, and radio in new and meaningful ways.”
“Local Radio Networks is excited to work with PickleJar to syndicate Up All Night nationwide,” added Steve Swick, CEO of Local Radio Networks. “Together, we’ll create a new model for our Country music Format affiliates—one that combines PickleJar’s innovative platform with LRN’s proven ability to deliver high-quality 24/7 programming to local broadcasters.”
For syndication inquiries, please contact: Kristian Barowsky – kristian@picklejar.com Gator Michaels – gator@picklejar.com
Skyview Networks Joins Forces With MusicMaster For Multi-Year Partnership
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 12TH, 2025 – Skyview Networks announced a multi-year partnership with industry leading broadcast radio music scheduling service, MusicMaster, for network audio sales beginning January 1, 2026. “Through our partnership with Skyview Networks, we’re expanding the ways our clients can benefit from barter while creating additional opportunities for stations and advertisers across the industry,” said Laurie Knapp, CEO of MusicMaster. “Skyview’s proven success in network audio sales and their reputation for strong, collaborative partnerships make them the ideal ally as we continue to serve our broadcasters with the most effective business solutions in the industry.”
“MusicMaster is a leader in innovation across the audio landscape, and we are thrilled to welcome them to our network audio sales portfolio,” said Steve Jones, President and CEO of Skyview Networks. “This partnership will further elevate our portfolio in the industry to deliver even greater value, creativity, and growth opportunities for our buyers and agency clients.” For more info, click here musicmaster.com.
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After 27 Years, Maryland Nurse’s Murder Solved With Help From ‘American Nightmares’ Podcast
Hosted by longtime WTOP investigative reporter Paul Wagner
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 12TH, 2025 – A decades-old Maryland murder case that was the focus of Season 2 of the true-crime podcast American Nightmares has been solved — and the victim’s family says the podcast helped inspire investigators to keep pursuing the case. Prince George’s County Police announced this week that Edward Watts, who also went by Baari Shabazz — and who died in 2019 — was responsible for the 1998 rape and murder of 50-year-old nurse and mother of three, Sherry Crandell, inside her office at the former Prince George’s County Medical Center in Cheverly, Maryland.
Crandell’s story was at the center of American Nightmares: Murder in a Safe Place, hosted by longtime WTOP investigative reporter Paul Wagner and produced by Gamut Podcast Network and WTOP News. The 2021 season reexamined the unsolved killing and chronicled the family’s decades-long search for answers. Following the police announcement, Crandell’s son, Darren Crandell, credited the podcast with helping to keep the case alive:
“The FBI told me the genealogy team listened to the podcast and it energized them to keep on working and finally identify the man who committed the crime” Investigators say advances in forensic genetic genealogy — and renewed attention to the case — ultimately identified Watts as the killer. “It’s deeply gratifying to know our work may have helped maintain momentum on a case that deserved closure,” said American Nightmares host Paul Wagner.
American Nightmares, produced by Gamut Podcast Network and WTOP News, is currently releasing new episodes from its latest season, which uncovers fresh information about the case featured in Season 1.
Another First for Michael Jackson; Kimmel Show Bandleader Passes
Michael Jackson Becomes First Artist With Top 10 Hits in Six Decades as ‘Thriller’ Re-Enters Hot 100
Cleto Escobedo III, 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' Bandleader, Dies at 59
... Jimmy Kimmel Breaks Down in Tears Honoring Bandleader
Sally Kirkland, Stage And Screen Star Who Earned An Oscar Nomination In ‘Anna,’ Dies At Age 84
Elton John Throws Fit Backstage At 2025 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame
Prince William Makes Dancing With the Stars Debut
Sabrina Carpenter to Star in Alice in Wonderland Musical Movie
Amid a Rise in Recreational Drug Use, Paris Jackson Issues a Dire Warning
Bagpipers Claim World Record With AC/DC's 'it's A Long Way To The Top'
Photo/ABC
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iHeartMedia And TikTok Partner For Launch Of Podcast Network And National Radio Channel
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 11TH, 2025 – iHeartMedia and TikTok announced a groundbreaking, multiplatform partnership that will bring TikTok creators into iHeart’s ecosystem. This collaboration includes the launch of the TikTok Podcast Network, which will feature up to 25 new podcasts hosted by TikTok creators, as well as a national broadcast and digital radio channel, and a series of live event integrations.
To support this partnership, iHeartMedia is introducing new co-branded, state-of-the-art podcast studios in Los Angeles, New York and Atlanta. These studios will feature advanced audio and video infrastructure for both podcasting and video production – helping a roster of creators build a stronger bridge between their video and audio content. TikTok Radio — a fast-paced, engaging format pairing TikTok creators with experienced iHeartRadio personalities — TikTok Radio will be available across broadcast radio stations nationwide and digitally on iHeartRadio. It's a station where listeners will feel like they are scrolling on TikTok, but with their ears.
“This partnership connects TikTok’s cultural energy and creator community with the unmatched scale and reach of iHeartMedia,” said Rich Bressler, President, COO and CFO for iHeartMedia. “We’re giving creators access to the biggest audio platforms in America -- creating new ways to tell stories, entertain, and build deeper connections with fans. Together, we’re combining our vast networks to deliver relevant content on a massive scale. It’s a win for creators, fans, and brands alike.”
TikTok and iHeart kicked off their partnership earlier this year with Next up: Live Music, a first-of-its-kind singing competition that was hosted exclusively on TikTok LIVE. More details from this new partnership will be announced in the coming months.
Heart's Nancy Wilson Makes A Case For Howard Stern To Be Inducted Into The Rock Hall Of Fame
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 11TH, 2025 – Among the celebrity attendees at this past weekend's Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction Nancy Wilson of Heart. American Songwriter reports that Wilson had a somewhat interesting answer when asked about who she thought should be inducted into the Rock Hall. While various stars offered different names, Wilson didn’t name a singer or band. Instead, she pointed to Howard Stern.
In making her case, Wilson said, “Howard is such a rock star and such a patron of rock and roll. He could actually be inducted next year and I would say yes to that.” And knowing that some might only remember Stern from the past, she added, “He’s not an a**hole anymore.”
The publication says, getting support from Wilson, Stern will need a few more supporters before he enters the Rock Hall inductee conversation. But for those wondering, he could enter the Rock Hall thanks to the Ahmet Ertegun Award. In the past, the award was given to both Alan Freed and Tom Donahue. Both were radio hosts who pioneered radio at the time. Although Wilson supported Stern, she traveled to the Rock Hall to help induct Soundgarden.
Jimmy Farrell Tapped To Lead Cox Media Group Miami
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 11TH, 2025 – Cox Media Group (CMG) announced that Jimmy Farrell has been named the Vice President & Market Manager of CMG Miami Radio. Farrell will oversee all of CMG’s radio stations in the market, including Easy 93.1 FM, Hits 97.3 FM, 99JAMZ, and Hot 105 FM. Farrell is a 32-year industry veteran who’s led CMG Jacksonville Radio since 2022. Farrell is replacing Ralph Renzi, who led CMG Miami Radio since 2017 and is leaving the company to pursue a new opportunity.
“Jimmy is a terrific leader who builds strong teams and achieves extraordinary results,” said Rob Babin, President, CMG Radio. “After succeeding in roles of increased responsibility across the CMG Radio business, he’s earned the deep respect and trust of his teams and the industry. I know CMG Miami Radio will thrive under his leadership, just as the Jacksonville team has done.”
This is a homecoming for Farrell, who started his career as an intern for CMG Miami while earning his bachelor’s degree from the University of Miami. “I’m very excited to come home to lead CMG Miami Radio and continue their outstanding efforts to positively impact our loyal listeners, outstanding communities and clients,” Farrell said.
Lizette Alicea Named Director Of Brand Sponsorship, La Exitosa 98.7 FM New York
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 11TH, 2025 – Emmis New York has appointed Lizette Alicea as director of brand sponsorship for La Exitosa 98.7 FM, the company’s new bilingual station. A proud New Yorker and seasoned media executive, Alicea returns home with more than two decades of experience in multicultural media sales, broadcast radio, television and integrated marketing.
“Lizette’s deep understanding of culture-driven marketing and her passion for connecting brands with the Latino community make her an incredible addition to our leadership team,” said Victor Giacomelli, market president, Emmis New York. “She brings the perfect balance of creativity and commercial vision that will help position La Exitosa as New York’s most inclusive and dynamic media platform for advertisers.”
Alicea most recently served as vice president of sales at iHeartMedia Philadelphia, where she helped launch a Spanish-language station reaching Gen Z and pop audiences. Her career also includes leadership roles at Univision Communications and iHeartMedia New York, where she developed innovative relationships across broadcast, digital, and live-event platforms.
“Coming home to New York feels like a full-circle moment,” said Alicea. “This city shaped my voice and my purpose, and La Exitosa is the perfect place to give back—to celebrate our stories, our rhythm, and the duality that makes us uniquely Latino. I’m equally excited about the opportunities this creates for brands to tap into our audience in a way that’s both authentic and inclusive of real life—how we live, speak, and connect every day.”
iHeartMedia, Inc. Reports 2025 Q3 Results
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 11TH, 2025 – iHeartMedia, Inc. reported on Monday its financial results for the quarter ended September 30, 2025.
Bob Pittman, Chairman and CEO of iHeartMedia, Inc. commenting on the results, said in part: “We’re pleased with our third quarter performance, generating Adjusted EBITDA of $205 million, slightly above the midpoint of our guidance range, and our consolidated revenue was down 1.1% compared to prior year, at the high end of our guidance, and up 2.8% excluding political revenue."
Pittman added: “And we continue to take important steps in the evolution of our company – last week we announced our new relationship with Amazon Ads, which will provide advertisers using Amazon DSP access to our vast audio portfolio, and just this morning we announced our new TikTok partnership, which will bring TikTok creators into iHeart’s ecosystem. We are committed to exploring new ways to unlock the value of our unparalleled assets, maximizing the unique position we occupy in the evolving media landscape, and creating innovative cross-platform opportunities to bring new products and services to our consumers and our advertising partners.”
Q3 2025 Consolidated Results
- Q3 Revenue of $997 million, down 1.1% (Excluding Q3 Political Revenue, Q3 Revenue up 2.8%)
- GAAP Operating loss of $116 million, compared to a GAAP Operating income of $77 million in Q3 2024, including non-cash impairment charges of $209 million related to our FCC licenses in Q3
- Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA of $205 million, flat compared to Q3 2024
- Cash used for operating activities of $10 million
- Free Cash Flow of ($33) million
- Cash balance and total available liquidity 2 of $192 million and $510 million, respectively, as of September 30, 2025
See complete report HERE
MIW Announces 2nd Annual 'Erica Farber Mentorship In Management' Program
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 11TH, 2025 – Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. (MIW) announed that applications are now open for the 2nd Annual Erica Farber Mentorship in Management Program, exclusively sponsored by WideOrbit. Apply Here.
The year-long mentorship connects high-potential female professionals with top executives and thought leaders, offering personalized guidance, strategic insights, and unparalleled access to leadership development opportunities.
“The Erica Farber Mentorship in Management program embodies the mission of MIW; to champion, mentor, and equip women to lead with confidence and impact,” said Sheila Kirby, MIW Board President. “This program continues to create tangible change by opening doors for women ready to step into the next level of leadership within our industry. We’re sincerely grateful to WideOrbit for their partnership and shared dedication to empowering women in radio.”
Applications for the 2026 Mentorship Program are now open. Candidates in the radio broadcasting industry are encouraged to apply by Friday, December 5, 2025. Apply at www.RadioMIW.com.
New York’s 103.5 KTU And Met Foods Collect More Than 12 Pallets Of Food To Support Food Bank
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 11TH, 2025 – iHeartMedia New York’s 103.5 KTU’s annual Stuff-A-Truck event wrapped up another successful year, bringing the community together to support the Food Bank For NYC. In partnership with Associated Supermarket Group (ASG) supermarkets and Met Foods, KTU’s on-air personalities Astra, Maxwell with the KTU Street Team broadcast live from Met Foods, Victory Blvd., Staten Island on Saturday, November 8, encouraging donations of non-perishable foods to help local families. The Stuff-A-Truck campaign collected over 12 pallets of food, all benefiting the Food Bank For NYC this holiday season.
“Every can, every box, every donation makes a difference,” said Astra. “We’re so proud to see our listeners come out and show so much love for their neighbors.” “New Yorkers always show up for each other,” added Maxwell. “This year’s Stuff-A-Truck proves just how strong our community is.” “Independent supermarkets are neighborhood anchors,” said Michele Mendoza, VP of Marketing & Customer Experience for Associated Supermarket Group. “When families face delays in essential benefits, our stores and partners step up—because no neighbor should go hungry.”
Legendary Detroit Rock Radio Icon Doug 'Doc of Rock' Podell To Retire On Dec. 5th, After 50-Year Career
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 10TH, 2025 – iHeart Detroit today announced the upcoming retirement of Doug “Doc of Rock” Podell from 106.7 WLLZ Detroit Wheels, effective December 5, 2025, after an incredible 50-year career in broadcast radio. Podell will continue hosting his weekday afternoon drive show 2-7 p.m. through his final broadcast on December 5, giving Detroit listeners the chance to celebrate and say goodbye to one of the city’s most iconic radio voices.
Podell, one of Detroit’s most celebrated and enduring rock radio voices, leaves behind a legacy that helped shape the sound and spirit of Detroit’s rock radio scene for nearly five decades. A fixture on Detroit’s airwaves since 1975, Podell’s radio journey began at 99.5 WABX before moving to 106.7 WWWW (W4), and later 92.5 KQRS in Minneapolis. He then joined 98.7 WLLZ, where he served as Program Director and on-air talent throughout the 1980s, helping cement the station’s identity and place in the Motor City’s rich rock heritage. Podell later took on roles at Cleveland’s 98.5 WNCX as Operations Manager and afternoon drive host, guiding the station to a #1 rating and helping bring Howard Stern’s show to a major new market.
In 1995, he returned to Detroit radio at 101.1 WRIF, where he played a pivotal role in developing the market-dominating “Drew & Mike Show” and served as Operations Manager for 15 years, curating major events and pioneering Detroit’s rock morning format. Podell went on to become a familiar voice on 94.7 WCSX from 2009 to 2017 and later appeared on 93.1 WDRQ. For over two decades, he also brought national rock performances to life as host of Westwood One’s “Live in Concert,” showcasing national rock performances to millions of listeners nationwide.
“Doug Podell is a Detroit original,” said Casey Krukowski, Program Director for iHeartMedia Detroit’s 106.7 WLLZ. “His passion for music, deep connection with listeners, and commitment to radio excellence have left a lasting mark—not only on this station, but on generations of Detroit rock fans. We are honored that he chose to conclude his legendary run right here at WLLZ.”
“It’s been an incredible ride,” said Doug Podell. “From my earliest days at WABX to returning to WLLZ, where I first took on a leadership role, it feels like the perfect place to sign off. I’ve been lucky to spend 50 years doing what I love, in the city I love, surrounded by listeners who made it all worth it.” Photo/ Logan Brannigan
Vince Richards Departs Audacy To Explore Other Opportunities
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 10TH, 2025 – Bob Mackay, SVP/Market Manager of Audacy Dallas shared that at the end of this month, Vince Richards will be leaving Audacy to explore other opportunities. He writes that for the last eight years, Vince Richards has been a pivotal force at Audacy, managing our operations and music stations here in Dallas, our two Rock stations in Sacramento and, for the last four years, leading our Rock strategy as Format VP. At the end of this month, Vince will be leaving Audacy to explore other opportunities.
Richards commented: "After eight personally and professionally rewarding years at Audacy, I'll be moving on to my next opportunity. I am incredibly proud of the work I've accomplished with our teams here in Dallas and across the country, driving ratings and revenue while connecting with our listeners. I look forward to continuing to build on the legacy I've created throughout my career in radio."
Mackay adds: "We are working closely with Vince and leadership to ensure a smooth transition for both local and format duties."
Zeno Media Appoints Mike McVay as Strategic Advisor to Accelerate Global Audio Growth
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 10TH, 2025 – Zeno Media announced the appointment of industry veteran Mike McVay as a strategic advisor. With more than five decades of experience in broadcast programming, syndication, and digital audio, McVay brings a combination of creative vision and operational expertise. His firm, McVay Media, has helped build nationally syndicated programs, launch major talent, and establish programming brands internationally.
“We’re thrilled to have Mike McVay advising Zeno Media during this next phase of growth,” said Morris Berger, CEO of Zeno Media. “His network, knowledge and experience in the radio and audio industry is truly unparalleled. It will be an honor to work with a legend and understand our ecosystem in a whole new light.”
“I’m excited to become a part of the Zeno team at such a pivotal moment in audio,” McVay said. “The company’s global reach, focus on underserved communities, and commitment to creator-driven innovation position it as a new force in the field.” For more information, visit www.zenomedia.com.
The Don Miller Show Returns To Florida Man Radio
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 10TH, 2025 – The Florida Man Radio Network is excited to announce the return of The Don Miller Show to its dynamic weekday lineup. Don Miller is back on the air weekdays from 9AM to 12 Noon Central Time, (10A-1P EST). “We’re thrilled to welcome Don back home to Florida Man Radio,” said JVC Broadcasting Market Manager John Griffo. “He brings a voice that’s bold, thought-provoking, and completely authentic — exactly what Florida Man Radio is all about.”
“The Don Miller Show” Hosted by veteran radio personality Don Miller, The Don Miller Show is a powerful mix of street-smart insight, bold commentary and real-life conversations. With more than 20 years in Florida talk radio, Don Miller has built a reputation for being candid, unfiltered and deeply connected to the community. The show tackles current events, culture, politics and daily life through the lens of everyday Americans — offering practical commentary, thought-provoking dialogue and unapologetic authenticity. It wasn’t only built to entertain — it’s built to empower.
“Florida Man Radio is one of the most real and entertaining talk networks on the air right now,” said Caracciolo. “We’re building something different — live, local, and full of personality. This is talk radio the way it’s supposed to be, unfiltered and unafraid”.
Tracy Johnson: How To Update Your Show Without Freaking Out The Audience
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 10TH, 2025 – Occasional reinvention or updating is a constant for most shows - including those who've altered its castmembers. Consultant Tracy Johnson writes in a recent Insiders Radio Network that budget cuts have a way of revealing how much “stuff” has quietly piled onto a show: recurring bits you’ve outgrown, promo lines that no longer say anything, segments that exist because… they’ve always existed, ie, clutter. And when resources shrink, clutter becomes heavy.
Zero-Based Show Programming is your reset button. It’s a thoughtful audit that protects what listeners love, trims what they don’t notice, and frees time/energy for what moves the brand. It’s always a good exercise. Use it to innovate calmly, especially when you can’t afford a big reinvention. Do it right and you can update your show without freaking out your audience. Think of your show as a small, mighty startup. Every element must earn its keep. The question isn’t “Is this good?” It’s “Is this essential to the promise we make to listeners each day?”
Start with Your Promise (write this down). It’s a one or two-line value statement: “Fun, fast, real life at workday pace.” Or “ Smart pop culture with actual laughs.” The Bert Show had a two-word value statement that doubled as a positioner on-air: Real. Funny. That said it all. Then, develop or refine your Target Listener Profile: Who comes to mind when you open the mic? Name them. Age, commute, pain points, obsessions. Finally, identify three brand adjectives: E.g., savvy, uplifting, and mischievous. Everything you keep should reflect these qualities. Now, you’re ready for a three-step Zero-Based Programming exercise to update your show without freaking out your audience.
Johnson concludes by saying: Zero-Based Show Programming isn’t about stripping the soul out of your show. It’s about stripping the friction out of your day and increasing your impact by focusing on high-leverage content. When resources shrink, focus becomes your superpower. Keep the hits, freshen the wrappers, retire the zombies, and make room for one new spark at a time. You’ll sound cleaner. You’ll feel lighter. And your audience will experience the best version of you. Read Entire Article Here
Audacy LAUNCH Artists Zach Top & Hudson Westbrook' Performs At Stars & Strings' Event
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 10TH, 2025 – Audacy’s annual Stars and Strings was held at Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL featured performances by Dierks Bentley, Dasha, HARDY, Nate Smith and Audacy LAUNCH artists Zach Top and Hudson Westbrook.
The sold-out event was hosted by KISS Country 99.9 and benefitted Folds of Honor, a nonprofit organization that provides life-changing scholarships to the spouses and children of America’s fallen or disabled military and first responders. Below are photos from the red carpet and performances from the event. Please credit Getty Images for Audacy. Let me know if you have any questions. We’re grateful for your consideration in sharing our Stars and Strings concert.
Michael Martin, Justin Cole, Tim Roberts, Dierks Bentley, Kelli Turner, Chad Fitzsimmons, guest, Jeff Sottolano and Andrea Burtsher attend Audacy's Stars and Strings 2025 at Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood on November 06, 2025 in Hollywood, Florida. - Photo by John Parra/Getty Images for Audacy
Boston’s 680 WRKO Raises Over $140,000 During Tenth Annual DAV Radiothon
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 10TH, 2025 – iHeart Boston’s AM 680 WRKO, The Voice of Boston, raised $137,736 during tenth annual DAV Radiothon to benefit the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Department of Massachusetts.
The radiothon took place on Friday, November 7, from 6 a.m. – 7 p.m. Over 13 hours, AM 680 WRKO’s on-air personalities Jeff Kuhner, Chuck Zodda, Mike Armstrong, and Howie Carr encouraged listeners to donate and raise funds for the DAV of Massachusetts’ homeless shelter and transportation programs. Since 2016, DAV Radiothon has raised over $1,263,000 to benefit veterans in the community.
Shawn Tempesta Joins With Carla Rea At KKLZ; Aimee Thomas Moves To 102.7 The Coyote 'Vegas
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 6TH, 2025 – Beasley Media Group announces new on-air lineup changes involving two of its popular Las Vegas radio stations, 96.3 KKLZ and 102.7 Coyote Country (KCYE-FM). Longtime Las Vegas favorite Shawn Tempesta, most recently heard on KVGS-FM, will be joining Carla Rea as Co-host of “The KKLZ Morning Show with Carla and Shawn” beginning Monday, November 17th. The new pairing brings together two dynamic and familiar personalities known for their humor, authenticity, and strong connection to the Las Vegas community.
In addition, Aimee Thomas, Shawn’s former morning show partner at VGS, will be returning to 102.7 The Coyote as part of the station’s morning lineup pairing with longtime Coyote Country PD and on-air talent, Shawn Stevens. Aimee’s fun, relatable style, and passion for connecting with listeners make her a perfect addition to the Coyote team.
“Las Vegas is home to some of the best talent in the country, and these moves strengthen two of our incredible brands,” said Beasley Media Group Chief Content Officer Justin Chase. “We’re thrilled to see Shawn join forces with Carla on KKLZ and to welcome Aimee back to The Coyote family. Our listeners are going to love what’s ahead.”
NPR Names Rachel Evans Chief Development Officer
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 7TH, 2025 – NPR President and CEO Katherine Maher has named Rachel Evans as NPR's Chief Development Officer. She starts November 17 and will be based in Washington, D.C. "I'm thrilled to join NPR at a moment when access to high-quality, nonprofit journalism is more essential than ever for the health of our democracy," said Evans. "I'm especially passionate about the opportunity to support public radio stations that are lifelines for communities across America where local news sources are increasingly scarce."
"Rachel's experience in strategic development for organizations with essential, outcome-driven missions is well aligned with our goals and the opportunity of this moment," said Katherine Maher. I'm excited to partner with her in advancing fundraising efforts that will safeguard independent journalism and sustain the ability of NPR and Member stations to provide high-quality news and programming in service to the American public."
Evans most recently served as Chief Revenue & Development Officer at Teach For America, where she led a national fundraising team that increased revenue, first-time donations, and donor dollar retention. Prior to that, as CEO of CityBridge Education, she partnered with D.C. schools, government stakeholders, and community partners to invest millions into the local education ecosystem. As a former White House Fellow — a selective non-partisan public service and leadership program — Evans served as Chief of Staff to the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness.
Photo/NPR-Ann-Marie VanTassell
Chris Van Vliet Joins Cumulus Podcast Network
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 7TH, 2025 – Cumulus announced that Chris Van Vliet will be joining the Cumulus Podcast Network, bringing his acclaimed show “Insight with Chris Van Vliet”, to one of the largest audio platforms in the country. As part of Westwood One’s portfolio, The Cumulus Podcast Network will distribute, market, and monetize “Insight with Chris Van Vliet” with this new partnership.
Supported by a loyal following across digital platforms, “Insight with Chris Van Vliet” is the #1 wrestling podcast in the world, consistently ranking among the top sports and entertainment shows on Apple & Spotify, while his two YouTube channels boast nearly 2 million subscribers and over 2.8 billion views. In each episode, Van Vliet sits down in-person with the biggest names in professional wrestling and beyond
Chris Van Vliet says, "I couldn’t be more excited to bring INSIGHT to the Cumulus Podcast Network. Pro wrestling is the hottest it’s been in decades, and this partnership allows us to continue growing the show and connecting with fans who love authentic, meaningful conversations.” Collin Jones, President of Westwood One and the Cumulus Podcast Network added, “Chris Van Vliet is a standout creator whose authenticity and consistency have built a powerful brand. His podcast is a perfect fit for our network, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to the Cumulus family.
New episodes of “INSIGHT with Chris Van Vliet” will continue to be released multiple times per week across all major platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and the Cumulus Podcast Network’s digital channels.
Audacy Launches 97.1 Detroit Sports Radio Network
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 7TH, 2025 – Audacy will launch 97.1 Detroit Sports Radio Network, a new, centralized hub for sports fans across Michigan on December 1. 97.1 The Ticket (WXYT-FM) will serve as the flagship station of the first-of-its-kind statewide platform produced and distributed by Audacy to unite the biggest sports voices, markets, and fans.
“The launch of 97.1 Detroit Sports Radio Network represents a massive commitment to our listeners and an exciting chapter in our growth, said Debbie Kenyon, Senior Vice President and Market Manager, Audacy Detroit. “We are excited to partner with Townsquare Media and other media companies to expand our footprint across all of Michigan and to deliver great content to the dedicated fan base we serve. We are proud to deliver best-in-class sports coverage to the entire state, solidifying our position as the essential source for Michigan sports audio content now and for years to come.”
The network’s first affiliates include Townsquare Media’s WFGR in Grand Rapids (98.7 FM), WJIM in Lansing (1240 AM), WBCK in Battle Creek (95.3 FM) and WKMI in Kalamazoo (1360 AM) and Blarney Stone Broadcasting's WGRY in Roscommon (101.1 FM). Additional affiliates will be announced in the upcoming months.
“97.1 The Ticket is one of America’s truly great sports stations, and we are very excited to partner with our friends at Audacy to bring best-in-class coverage of Detroit sports to our markets in Grand Rapids, Lansing, Kalamazoo and Battle Creek,” said Erik Hellum, COO, Townsquare Media. “This is a big win for both our listeners and our clients.”
Veteran Programmer Don Parker Launches Parker Brand Strategies
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 7TH, 2025 – Veteran radio programmer Don Parker announced the launch of his new consulting firm, Parker Brand Strategies, dedicated to helping broadcasters and media companies create, strengthen, and rejuvenate their brands for long-term success. With decades of proven experience leading top-rated stations and guiding teams to market dominance, Parker brings his deep understanding of audience engagement, brand positioning, and strategic programming to a new generation of broadcasters.
“Media brands are as much about connection as they are about content,” said Don Parker. “Whether it’s creating a new brand from scratch or turning around a legacy station, my mission is to help companies build brands that matter—brands that consumers and advertisers truly identify with and believe in.” Parker's has achieved success in multiple formats and major markets including San Francisco, Los Angeles, Houston, and Phoenix, along with a winning history in medium and small markets.
For more information or to connect with Don Parker, visit www.parkerbrandstrategies.com or email Don@ParkerBrandStrategies.com
Country Top 40 With Fitz Partners With Fisher House For Veteran’s Day Special
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 7TH, 2025 – Country Top 40 with Fitz in partnership with Fisher House Foundation will present the CT40 Troop Salute Veteran’s Day Weekend Special. Throughout the upcoming weekend, CT40 will be spotlighting stories, messages, and music that honor those who have served. Together with Fisher House, host Fitz aims to amplify awareness and support for veterans and their loved ones, while sharing inspiring stories from across the country.
“We’re honored to partner with Fisher House to recognize and celebrate the brave individuals who have put on the uniform to support and defend our freedom!” said Fitz, host of CT40. “CT40’s Troop Salute is highlighting our country’s heroes the CT40 way!" As part of the celebration, CT40 will be airing country music star, Cody Johnson’s soon-to-be released rendition of “Travelin’ Soldier,” a song originally popularized by The Chicks, formerly known as the Dixie Chicks.
For additional details on this upcoming special or for affiliation information, please contact affiliation@skyviewsat.com or visit skyviewnetworks.com/ct40/.
EVENTS: 104.1 KRBE Fights Hunger In Houston With 3rd Annual Turkey Tour with Kevin & Audrey
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 7TH, 2025 – Cumulus 104.1 KRBE Houston wrapped its 3rd annual Turkey Tour with Kevin & Audrey in partnership with Kroger, an initiative dedicated to supporting local food banks during the holiday season. From November 1st through November 5th, the 104.1 KRBE team hit the road for a series of live broadcasts from Kroger locations across the Houston area. Thanks to the incredible generosity of listeners, sponsors, and community partners, the Turkey Tour raised over 10,000 pounds of food, helping provide meals to families in need throughout the region.
“Every year, our community shows up in a big way,” said Leslie Whittle, Content Director at KRBE-FM. “We’re so grateful to everyone who donated. This event is a true reflection of Houston’s heart and spirit.”
All donations benefited the Houston Food Bank and other local partners committed to fighting hunger. KRBE-FM remains committed to uplifting the community through meaningful initiatives like the Turkey Tour. The station will continue working with local organizations year-round to foster connection, compassion, and support across Houston.
Jammin'98.3 Helps Collect Food And Funds In Its 'Feeding Milwaukee Live Event
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 7TH, 2025 – Last week, Jammin’ 98.3 saw a real need in our community and met that need with flying colors. Our Feeding Milwaukee Live event was a huge success. Together, we helped collect and distribute over 1,000 pounds of food to the Northcott Neighborhood Pantry and raised more than $1,500 in cash donations. These contributions will go a long way toward making sure families in Milwaukee get the essentials they need during these difficult times.
“What really stood out was the urgency of the need — as fast as we were collecting food, Northcott was already giving it away. It reminded us exactly why this effort mattered.”- Don Black, Director of Content. We were honored to have Mayor Cavalier Johnson stop by to support our work and to announce that we’ll be partnering with the city’s food drive initiative to continue helping pantries across Milwaukee. We want to thank the community for helping us make a difference in the lives of our community.
Edison: Frequent Podcasts Appearances By Top Candidates Lent Well To Tuesday's Winners
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 6TH, 2025 – According to Edison Research's latest 'Insights,' Tuesday's high-profile elections in New York City and New Jersey show that candidates are now using podcasts more than ever to connect with potential supporters. Our team has scoured the internet to find as many podcast episodes as we could that featured appearances by the two top candidates in NYC’s Mayoral race, Andrew Cuomo and Zohran Mamdani, and the top two candidates for Governor of New Jersey, Jack Ciattarelli and Mikie Sherrill. One thing that surprised and impressed us was the sheer number of podcast appearances each candidate made.
From January to October 2025, we found 18 podcast appearances for Andrew Cuomo, 31 for Zohran Mamdani, 16 for Jack Ciattarelli, and 18 for Mikie Sherrill. Candidates are investing significant time and effort into booking podcast interviews, and they are reaching an impressive number of listeners nationally. Both of this week's winners, Zohran Mamdani and Mikie Sherrill, appeared on podcasts with significantly higher U.S. weekly podcast audiences 18+ than their competitors.
Considering the counts listed above, Edison Podcast Metrics calculates that the podcast titles Zohran Mamdani appeared on reached approximately 12.5 million podcast consumers 18+ in an average week. Cuomo, on the other hand, was a guest on shows with a much smaller combined weekly podcast audience size, reaching 1.2 million weekly U.S. podcast listeners in an average week. Reach estimates for the NJ Governor’s race follow a similar pattern, with Mikie Sherrill beating out her Republican counterpart at the polls and over the ear waves. Podcasts that featured appearances by Sherrill reach an estimated 4.1 million weekly podcast listeners compared to 972,000 for the shows featuring Ciattarelli.
It’s important to note that these estimates are on a national level and measure weekly reach by show, not individual episodes. While not all listeners had a chance to vote in New York City or New Jersey, both examples illustrate how podcasting is becoming an increasingly important and popular megaphone in U.S. elections. Larger podcast audiences do not necessarily mean more votes, but data from Edison Podcast Metrics illustrates the increasingly important role podcasts are playing in the outreach strategy of political campaigns.
Sheinelle Jones Set To Interview Katie Couric At The Upcoming Gracies Leadership Awards
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 6TH, 2025 – The Alliance for Women in Media (AWM) announced that TODAY co-host Sheinelle Jones will lead an exclusive fireside chat with award-winning journalist Katie Couric at the upcoming 2025 Gracies Leadership Awards. The event will take place on Tuesday, November 18, at Tribeca 360° in New York City, where Couric will be honored with the distinguished Gracies Icon Award in recognition of her groundbreaking career and contributions to media. Reserve your seat today to be part of this exclusive conversation and celebration of leadership in media. Tickets are available here.
“Sheinelle and Katie are two of the most respected voices in journalism, each using their platforms to inform and inspire,” said Becky Brooks, President of AWM/F. “To have them together on stage promises an authentic, insightful conversation that embodies what the Gracies are all about, celebrating women whose work shapes and advances our industry.” Jones, an Emmy-winning journalist, co-hosts the 3rd Hour of TODAY and has been part of NBC News since 2014.
In addition to Katie Couric, the Gracies Leadership Awards luncheon will honor seven exceptional leaders whose creativity, influence, and vision continue to shape the future of media and entertainment: Martha Benyam, COO, Kino Lorber -- Rita Ferro, President of Global Advertising, The Walt Disney Company -- Connie Orlando, EVP, Specials, Music Programming, Music Strategy and News, BET Networks -- Alissa Pollack, EVP, Global Music Marketing and Strategy, iHeartMedia --Valari Dobson Staab, Chairman, NBCUniversal Local -- Jenna Weiss-Berman, Head of Audio & Podcasts, Paper Kite Productions and Michelle Duke, President, NAB Leadership Foundation & Chief Impact Officer, National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), recipient of the AWM Legacy Leadership Award
For more information about the Alliance for Women in Media and the Gracies Leadership Awards, please visit allwomeninmedia.org
The Men Of The Mix Wear Pink To Help Raise $391,942 To Fight Breast Cancer 101.9 The Mix
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 6TH, 2025 – October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Now in its 6th year, The Men of the Mix fronted by Morning Mix host Chris Petlak, teamed up with the Men Wear Pink campaign to raise funds for the American Cancer Society, an organization leading the breast cancer fight in the 21st century, and their commitment to creating a future free from the threat of breast cancer.
For the third year in a row, The Men of the Mix hosted a comedy night at Zanies Rosemont. This sold-out event featured stand-up comedy, performances of favorite features from The Morning Mix and Afternoon Mix. The Men of The Mix helped raise $391,942 for the American Cancer Society of Greater Chicagoland, placing the Chicago team fourth in nationwide campaigns for total funds raised. Every dollar raised helps the American Cancer Society save lives from breast cancer by funding innovative breast cancer research, providing education and guidance to help people reduce their risk, and offering comprehensive patient care.
Chris Eagan, Vice President of Brand and Content at 101.9 The MIX, said, “Chris once again led the Men Wear Pink campaign with incredible energy and vision. By rallying Morning Mix news personality Whip and Afternoon Mix host McCabe, he helped turn dedication into real results—raising meaningful support for those affected by breast cancer.”
Nina Blanco Inks 2-Year Extension At Mix 100 Denver
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 6TH, 2025 – Nina Blanco, Afternoon Host, Music Director and Marketing Coordinator at MIX 100 Denver, announced that she's just inked for 2 more years at the KSE Radio Ventures outlet.
"Never did I think I’d take this step in my career but with a little help and encouragement, I’m all in.,' declared Blanco. "Thanks @bigrobradio for taking me under your wing and teaching me EVERYTHING! Pretty cool to add this title to my resume and continue learning the programming side of the radio biz!'
Nina Blanco has been in radio for well over a decade. Originally from the Chicago suburbs, she eventually landed mornings in St. Louis before moving to KIMN-FM/Mix 100 Denver in 2023. In 2024, she took over afternoon drive. Many of our readers will also recognize Nina as our popular co-emcee of Morning Show Boot Camp along with Ryan Smetzer.
Bobby Bones’ Podcast Network Debuts New Faith-Focused Podcast: 'The Upload with Brooke Taylor'
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 6TH, 2025 – Premiere Networks and award-winning radio and TV personality Bobby Bones announced the launch of a new original iHeartPodcast “The Upload with Brooke Taylor” on the Nashville Podcast Network. The weekly podcast featuring faith-fueled conversations designed to inspire, encourage and uplift listeners, debuted on November 5, 2025. Hosted by radio personality Brooke Taylor - weekday host on iHeartRadio Nashville’s The Big 98 - alongside co-host Pastor Mark Evans, The Upload takes a deep and personal look at what faith truly means in everyday life.
‘The Upload’ isn’t afraid to go deeper,” says Taylor. “We want to explore the real stories behind people’s faith — the moments of doubt, growth, surrender, and strength that define our walk with Christ.” Listeners can expect candid, heartfelt interviews with some of the most inspiring voices in music and entertainment. The premiere episode features multi-platinum Country artist Tyler Hubbard, who joins Taylor and Evans to share how faith guided him through a season of endings and new beginnings — from losing his father in a tragic accident to rediscovering purpose after Florida Georgia Line.
New episodes of “The Upload with Brooke Taylor” will be released every Wednesday. To listen, download the free iHeartRadio app or find “The Upload with Brooke Taylor” wherever you get your podcasts.
Rick Dees & Gary Sandy Guest On 'Chachi Loves Everybody' Podcast
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 6TH, 2025 – 'Chachi Loves Everybody,' hosted by Benztown's Dave “Chachi” Denes, latest episode features special guests, Rick Dees, the iconic internationally syndicated radio host of The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, and Gary Sandy, acclaimed television and Broadway actor known for his role as program director Andy Travis on the classic comedy series WKRP in Cincinnati. On the first new episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Rick Dees shares his early misadventures in radio as a high school and college student in North Carolina The story behind creating the 1976 satirical novelty song “Disco Duck,” how it became a hit, and how it got him fired.
Actor Gary Sandy shares what it was like broadcasting live for 50 million people in the groundbreaking daytime drama, As The World Turns How he landed the role of Andy Travis on WKRP in Cincinnati.
Both Dees and Sandy will be honored as Giants of Broadcasting by the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation at the 2025 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony on November 14th at Gotham Hall in New York City. To listen to the new Chachi Loves Everybody podcast episodes, visit HERE
BFOA: Be A Beacon Of Hope For Our Colleagues In Need This Holiday Season
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 5TH, 2025 – Life throws us many curve balls, such as cancer, critical illness diagnoses, accidents, unforeseen emergencies, natural disasters, and the difficulties of advanced age that may require around-the-clock care or relocation to assisted living facilities.
The Broadcasters Foundation of America (BFOA) has positively impacted the lives of countless individuals in the broadcasting community by providing a crucial lifeline when these challenges arise, treating each case with dignity and confidentiality. It’s all about our community.
The BFOA supports the wide-ranging sectors of radio and television broadcasting, including on-air talent, engineers, producers, sales, marketing, finance, and administrative staff. Broadcasting cannot function without the community effort and our shared goals — BFOA is here to help. As the year draws to a close, please consider donating HERE
America’s Top 100 Christmas Songs 2025: Nearly Half Of Listeners Want It Through New Year's Eve
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 5TH, 2025 – P1 Media Group announced the results of its annual Christmas Music Research Study. The survey examined the appeal of the 100 most-played Christmas songs from the 2024 holiday season (as tracked by Mediabase) among U.S. radio listeners likely to tune in to all-Christmas music stations.
Among the highlights:
Bobby Helms’ “Jingle Bell Rock” remains America’s number one Christmas song for
the eighth time in nine years. “Christmas classics are set to rule the airwaves once
again this holiday season,” says Ken Benson, Partner and co-founder of P1 Media
Group. “According to American radio listeners who frequently or occasionally listen to
all-Christmas music stations, the timeless favorites continue to resonate year after
year.”
The Holiday standards dominate the Top 100 with six versions of “Frosty the
Snowman“ and “Let It Snow,” and five versions of “Sleigh Ride.' Gene Autry, Bing Crosby, Amy Grant, and Andy Williams each have four
songs in the Top 100.
The average scores for men and women were nearly identical (within a half- point). Elvis Presley’s “Blue Christmas” was #1 overall for Women, while “Carol of the Bells“ by Lindsey Stirling ranked #1 for Men, and the David Foster version.
Top testing Christmas songs by age group: 25-34 “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” Kenny G (first year tested) -- 35-44 “Carol of the Bells,” Lindsey Stirling (first year tested) -- 45-54 “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” Andy Williams was #1 again. -- Kelly Clarkson’s “Underneath the Tree” (2013) and Ariana Grande’s “Santa Tell Me” (2014) are the two highest-testing original Christmas songs from the 2000s, ranking #16 and #76, respective
Listeners’ preferences on when all-Christmas Music should begin shifted slightly this year: - 28% Mid November (23% 2024) -- 23% Early November (31% 2024) -- 23% Thanksgiving (28% 2024) -- 31% Early November (23% 2024) -- 18% Early December (22% 2024) -- 8% mid-December (2% 2024) -- Nearly half of listeners want Christmas radio music to continue through New Year’s Eve.
Click HERE for complete list
'The Woody Show' Returns Home To 105.7 The Point St. Louis For Afternoons Beginning Today
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 5TH, 2025 – Hubbard Radio St. Louis’ 105.7 The Point (KPNT) announced the addition of The Woody Show to its weekday lineup. Beginning Wednesday, November 5, The Woody Show — hosted by Woody, along with co-hosts Gina Grad, Greg Gory, Menace, and Sebas — will air weekdays from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. This marks a homecoming for Woody, who spent many years at The Point earlier in his career, including hosting mornings with current KPNT morning host Scott Rizzuto (check out Rizzuto's announcement on graphic below).
“We’re thrilled to welcome The Woody Show to 105.7 The Point,” said Tommy Mattern, Operations Manager for Hubbard Radio St. Louis. “Woody’s connection to St. Louis runs deep, and his show perfectly reflects the energy, humor, and edge that Point listeners love.”
“I appreciate the opportunity to once again be a part of a legendary station like The Point,” said Woody. “St. Louis is a very special place for me. It’s where I met my wife, where my kids were born, and where I grew my career. There’s a saying that you can always go home — and trust me, it’s true. I’ve certainly put it to the test.”
The Woody Show is syndicated nationally by Premiere Networks and is now heard in markets across the U.S. For more information, visit www.1057thepoint.com
The Woody Show replaces Liv Maddix, who previously hosted “The Afternoon Drive” on The Point.
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'The Bob & Tom Show' Receives Kurt Vonnegut Humor Award at 'Night of Vonnegut' Event
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 4TH, 2025 – The Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library honored legendary radio hosts Bob Kevoian and Tom Griswold of The Bob & Tom Show with the Kurt Vonnegut Humor Award during the annual Night of Vonnegut gala on Saturday, October 18. The event brought together authors, artists, community leaders, and fans of Kurt Vonnegut for an evening celebrating laughter, creativity, and the enduring influence of one of Indiana’s most beloved literary voices.
“For decades, The Bob & Tom Show has been a staple of American comedy,” said Julia Whitehead, Founder and CEO of the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library. “Their ability to blend humor, satire, and sharp observation reflects Vonnegut’s belief in the power of laughter to illuminate truth.” Since its debut, The Bob & Tom Show has entertained millions of listeners nationwide with its quick wit, cultural commentary, and signature brand of satirical humor — the kind of comedy Kurt Vonnegut himself might have admired: smart, surprising, and unafraid to challenge convention.
Over their long broadcast career, Bob and Tom have released more than sixty comedy albums and helped launch the careers of countless young comedians, becoming an essential platform for emerging voices in American humor. The evening also recognized Michael J. Fox, recipient of the So It Goes Resilience Award, whose letter of gratitude was read by comedian Lewis Black in a moving video tribute. Proceeds from the Night of Vonnegut gala supported KVML’s programs and outreach efforts for the coming year, including the Youth Writing Program, Banned Books Week, and ongoing community initiatives.
Netflix And iHeart In Talks Over Video Podcast Licensing Agreement
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 4TH, 2025 – Netflix is reportedly eyeing a licensing agreement with iHeartMedia over its video podcasts. According to a new report from Bloomberg, Netflix is currently in talks with iHeart hoping to land exclusivity for some of their podcasts’ video episodes. If an agreement is struck, this would mean podcasts would no longer upload video formats of their episodes to YouTube. However, according to The Wrap, it’s unclear if all of iHeartMedia’s podcasts — which include “The Breakfast Club” , “Las Culturistas,” “Jay Shetty Podcast” and “Stuff You Should Know” — would be included in the potential Netflix deal.
This comes on the heels of Netflix recently striking a similar deal with Spotify, which will see only certain podcasts, including “The Bill Simmons Podcast,” exclusively live on the streamer. Reportedly, full episodes will be removed from YouTube at the start of 2026 but will still reside on Spotify. Shows such as “The Joe Rogan Experience” will remain on YouTube, where it has 20.4 million subscribers.
While this seems to be the trending business move, it does raise questions on whether it’s a sound move for podcasters, who potentially run the risk of losing a chunk of their audience by leaving YouTube — where most people consume podcast content.
Adam Reader Sits Down With Alice Cooper During The Radio Hall of Fame In Chicago
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 3RD, 2025 – In yet one peek from last week's Radio Hall of Fame in Chicago, Adam Reader, host of Skyview Networks nationally syndicated program Classic Rock U, was able to sit down with 2025 Inductee Alice Cooper for an extended interview with legendary rocker Alice Cooper at Hubbard's WDRV-FM studios just prior to his induction. (Portions of their interview will be available in future episodes of CRU).
The full interview will be available on Adam’s Professor of Rock YouTube channel on Tuesday, November 11. For more information about Classic Rock U: https://skyviewnetworks.com/classic-rock-u/ From left to right: Adam "Professor of Rock" Reader of Classic Rock U and Alice Cooper.
Andrea Burtscher Rises To Nashville Operations Manager For 'Katie & Company'
The Show Is Now On The Hunt For Associate Producer
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 3RD, 2025 – Audacy's “Katie & Company” show, led by ACM award-winning and CMA Award finalist Katie Neal, is expanding and looking for an Associate Producer to join the team in Nashville. You can find the job posting here. The show continues to grow, reaching 2.7 million listeners each week and broadcasting out of Audacy’s new state-of-the-art studio at the Hard Rock Cafe on Broadway in Nashville.
As part of the show’s continued growth, Andrea Burtscher has been elevated to Nashville Operations Manager, overseeing local studio operations and production for “Katie & Company” while continuing to support national initiatives across Audacy’s Country portfolio. Burtscher began her radio career at WKKO in Toledo, Ohio, before joining WQYK in Tampa and later Audacy’s KMLE in Phoenix, where she rose to Director of Marketing & Promotions and Music Director. After more than a decade in Phoenix, she led regional promotions for Audacy’s San Francisco and Sacramento markets.
Most recently, she has served as Director of Country Promotions & Experiences, overseeing national marketing, promotions, and events across Audacy’s Country portfolio.
Legendary 93.3 WMMR Philadelphia Radio Host Pierre Robert Has Passed Away
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 30TH, 2025 – One of radio true icons, Pierre Robert, has passed away. Beasley Media Group posted in a statement: We are very saddened to share the passing of legendary 93.3 WMMR Radio Personality Pierre Robert. According to police reports, Pierre was found deceased in his home on Wednesday, 10/29/25. The circumstances surrounding his passing are not yet known. No foul play is suspected.
A true radio icon, Pierre was one of the most recognized personalities in the City of Philadelphia. He joined the rock station back in 1981 and hosted the midday show with his unabashed love for music, his listeners, and the city. The legendary rock radio personality was best known for his welcoming ‘Greetings Citizens’ salutation, along with his big heart and warm voice! Pierre encompassed everything that rocks – the new and familiar, rock and alternative, punk and singer-songwriter… whether presenting in the air studio, on-stage, or unearthing treasures in the MMaRchives.
One of the city’s most recognizable celebrities, Pierre was at the center of its live music scene, greeting his legions of fans as if personal friends in the smallest clubs and largest stadiums. His star is included on the Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame. “We all have heavy hearts today,” said Beasley Media Group Chief Executive Officer Caroline Beasley. “Pierre’s unwavering love for music and his deep connection with listeners made him one of radio’s most enduring and beloved voices. He will be greatly missed.” The entire WMMR and Beasley Media Group family are deeply saddened by this incredible loss. Our condolences go out to Pierre Robert’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.
Ahead Of Tonight's Radio Hall of Fame Induction, Mojo Receives Key To The City Of Detroit
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 30TH, 2025 – Enroute to being inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame's Class of 2025, beloved Detroit morning host Mojo (Thomas Carballo) was presented with a key to the city of Detroit during Monday's "Mojo in the Morning" show. Providing the key was Detroit mayor Mike Duggan. "To the host of the longest running FM show in Michigan radio history, a member of the Michigan radio hall of fame — whose studio is right here in Eastern Market of Detroit — Mojo, I'm pleased to present to you the key to the city," Duggan told Mojo.
"This is unbelievable. Wow," said Mojo, as he was presented with the key. Duggan told the host the last two people he gifted with a key to the city were the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, and Detroit rapper Big Sean. "Honestly I love the city so much, and man, this is unbelievable," he said, later joking that he was going to see if he could use the keys to unlock the doors at American Coney Island.
Mojo was nominated for induction into the Radio Hall of Fame earlier this year, and he was announced as an inductee in June reports The Detroit News. He had been nominated for the honor twice previously, and he joins a class that includes Alice Cooper, Bob & Sherri, Mike McVay, DeDe McGuire, Scott Simon, Shelly Stewart, Julie Talbott and Martha Quinn.
The induction ceremony will be held tonight at Chicago's Swissotel Hotel. Mojo, who grew up in the Chicago area and came to Detroit via Arizona, has been the host of WKQI-FM's "Mojo in the Morning" since 2000.
Edison: Majority Of Time With Streaming Music Is Now Spent With Paid Platforms
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 30TH, 2025 – In this week's Edison Insights it points out there are many ways audio habits and preferences have changed within the last decade. One interesting and underrated change in the audio landscape is the shift away from free streaming audio platforms to paid subscription services. Providers like Spotify, iHeart, YouTube Music, Amazon, and Pandora all currently offer both free and paid versions of their streaming music platforms.
In 2015, over three-quarters of the time spent with streaming music sources was spent with free platforms, at 78%. This high percentage continued into 2016 but started to lose ground to paid sources starting in 2017. 2020 marks the first year that paid sources surpassed free for the percent of time Americans 13+ spend with streaming music sources. While there are slight fluctuations in the data some years, the overall theme remains consistent; percent of time spent with streaming music sources has shifted from free to paid platforms.
As of 2025, Americans 13+ spend 66% of their daily streaming music listening with paid platforms and 34% of time with free services. There are many reasons why paying for streaming music has become mainstream. These include Americans becoming less tolerant of advertisements in their audio listening, competitive pricing structures among streaming music providers, and subscription services becoming more common in other media offerings.
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Fred Jacobs: 'What's Your YouTube Strategy?
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 29TH, 2025 – Over the past several years, Morning Show Boot Camp attendees have heard often about the growing importance of video in their audio strategy. The same can be said for podcasters. Fred Jacobs mirrors that sentiment in his blog today by asking 'W.Y.Y.T.S?' (What’s your YouTube strategy)?
Now, in its 20th year, "YouTube has emerged as a multifaceted juggernaut that continues to grow…rapidly," says Jacobs. Jacobs points to an article in The Hollywood Reporter by writer Alex Weprin. The article starts out with a bang – its title: “YouTube Just Ate TV. It’s Only Getting Started” Weprin charts YouTube’s meteoric rise over its 20 year history bringing it today as a gigantic big box store, housing just about everything that is video, from podcasts to videos to short clips. In its most recent video media scorecard, YouTube takes top honors – above and beyond Netflix by more than five percentage points.
Jacobs says we saw a similar ranking in this year’s Techsurvey 2025 (shown above) conducted back in January/February. We ask consumers who have downloaded any radio/music apps which related apps have their added to their mobile phones and/or tablets. By the way, that’s seven in ten people from our national sample who use these types of apps.
Here are five big stats from the article: YouTube usage on TV sets has now “surpassed mobile and is now the primary device for YouTube viewing in the U.S.” Over the past for years, YouTube has paid its creators, artists, media partners, and content creators more than $100 billion dollars. YouTube generate north of $36 billion in ad revenue last year. YouTube’s annual revenue has topped $50 billion. YouTube spent $32 billion for content, a new record for the company, outspending nearly all content creators. The article goes on to cover YouTube’s foray into live sports (think NFL), as well as their plans to
Jacobs says at Jacobs Media, we continue to motivate our clients to develop a video strategy, especially utilizing short-form clips on social channels from Facebook to TikTok. We may now have to amend that charge by asking the question: “What’s your YouTube strategy.” That’s a question morning shows and talents should be asking themselves as we head into the holiday season. Read Blog HERE
Former Miss Universe Dayanara Torres Named New Co-Host For 'The Enrique Santos Morning Show'
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 28TH, 2025 – iHeartMedia has named Dayanara Torres as a new co-host of “The Enrique Santos Morning Show.” Originating from iHeart's Miami’s TÚ 94.9 FM (WZTU-FM), launched on Monday, October 27. Torres, a former Miss Universe, Film and TV actress, and acclaimed TV host, is officially joining the show, marking her radio debut and expanding her voice to listeners through the Enrique Santos Morning Show Network.
Joining Enrique and Dayanara on-air are DJ Xtreme, Harold Valenzuela, and Julio El Producer — along with newcomer Gaby Jordan, the show’s digital reporter and entertainment correspondent, who will keep audiences plugged into what’s trending across pop culture and social media.
“Dayanara has already conquered the worlds of pageantry and television — now she’s conquering morning radio,” said Santos. “She’s real, she’s radiant, and she’s the perfect addition to our family. The chemistry is instant, and the laughs are non-stop.”
“This is such a beautiful new chapter for me,” said Torres. “I’ve always loved connecting with people, and now I get to do it every morning — live, real, and full of laughter. I’m thrilled to join Enrique and this amazing team, and I can’t wait to wake up nuestra gente across the country with joy, energy, and heart.”
Report: 'The Chasm Is Widening Between NPR And The Corporation For Public Broadcasting'
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 28TH, 2025 – NPR's legal team has privately questioned the CPB's longtime chief executive, Patricia Harrison, under oath earlier this month, according to the radio network's legal filings, and is scheduled to do so publicly at a court hearing this morning. According to NPR's David Folkenflik, 'The chasm is widening between NPR and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the nonprofit that funneled federal dollars to public media until Congress killed that funding earlier this year. in court documents, NPR has presented evidence to bolster its case that the board of the nonprofit corporation first approved a multiyear, multimillion-dollar contract for NPR to operate a satellite distribution system for public radio stations.
CPB rejects that, saying that it awarded the contract to a different group to better serve the nation's diverse array of public radio stations. NPR and CPB each declined comment for this story, citing the litigation. The two institutions — along with PBS — have stood together at the core of public media for more than a half century. They formed a united front as they lobbied lawmakers against clawing back the $1.1 billion already approved by Congress and signed into law by the president for the broader public media system.
More than 60 years after President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Public Broadcasting Act of 1967 into law, Congress is voting on whether to take back federal funding already promised for the public media system. The Republican majority has accused PBS and NPR of left-leaning bias and being a waste of taxpayer funds. Read Article HERE
Tracy Johnson: 'Turning Your Behind-The-Scenes Skills Into New Careers In A Post-Radio World'
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 27TH, 2025 – In Tracy Johnson's latest 'Insider Radio Network' article titled: Turning Your Behind-the-Scenes Skills Into New Careers' he writes, "If you’ve spent years behind the scenes in radio shaping shows, guiding personalities, fine-tuning clocks, coaching teases, crafting brand strategy, and managing chaos with a smile, your career isn’t over. It might be just beginning. Producers, Program Directors, Brand managers, and Promotion Managers are titles that may not have been front-facing, but the value you provided was core to the product.
The skills you’ve mastered are in high demand across media, entertainment, startups, digital content companies, and brand marketing. Content strategists can reimagine their value and find new opportunities. The only catch? You have to reframe how you position those skills to fit what you want to be, not what you have been.
Content Strategists Can Reimagine Their Value - Just as a personality must reframe their focus to new media opportunities, you have to envision your future. You Weren’t Just “In Radio.” You Were: A Brand Architect: You developed positioning strategies that differentiated stations in competitive markets. That’s brand strategy. It’s the same work done by high-paid consultants and in-house brand teams at startups and Fortune 500 companies alike.
A Content Curator: You built clocks, planned themes, optimized rotations, packaged talent, and integrated promotions. That’s editorial direction, content strategy, and media programming. Translation? You know how to hold attention, a priceless skill in today’s noisy landscape. A Talent Coach: You weren’t just “managing personalities.” You were unlocking creative potential, improving performance, and helping talent find their authentic voice. That’s leadership. Executive coaching. Even performance psychology. A Multi-Platform Producer: You likely directed audio, web, social, video, and events — often with no extra pay. But guess what? That’s a creative producer. Those same titles are found at media companies, podcast networks, and branded content studios. Read Complete article HERE
It's A Wrap: The Bert Show Signs Off After 25 Years; 'I'm Just Feeling Tremendous Gratitude'
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 27TH, 2025 – With Jockline coming to you daily from Atlanta, this indeed was a surreal morning tuning into Q99.7 and missing the longtiime voice of Bert Weiss, the iconic The Bert Show came to an end Friday morning. Among the media who packed the control room for his final broadcast was Atlanta's News First (watch here). As he closed his show he said, “I’m just feeling tremendous joy and tremendous gratitude. So I’ll end it with that. Thank you guys so much. Thank you for being here for me." “Twenty five years in radio is a thousand years. Thank you for twenty-five years. I guess that’s it, you guys.”
Reaching out from his hometown of San Diego, Weiss shared how it felt when the clock hit 10 am On Friday. He told us, "First time I've felt joy and sadness at the same time. I'm at peace. But also sad. But also very proud of what we've all done for 25 years.
Having lived the Radio Dream' of being an incredibly successful morning host in a major market in the same city and station for 25 years, we asked what do you say to that young, up and coming host reading this that would like to walk in your footsteps? Is it still possible? "I think the dream to be creative and entertaining and be seen and be a force in people's lives is def possible. And needed. The platform is inconsequential," he answered.
We had to ask is there was a moment in the last few days or weeks where you suddenly froze for a second and wondered if you were about to make the biggest mistake of your life? "NOT ONCE', he replied. NOT ONCE. There are few things I've been sure of in my life and this is one. Could I come in here and continue to get paid? You bet. But I think what mainstream morning radio has turned into doesn't fit who I am anymore. And that's ok! But why wait? This industry has given me everything in my life. To come in here and pretend for a year? Naaaaa. That would be cheating an industry that has given so much to me and also cheating everybody that works on this show so hard every day
With regard to what's next at Q99.7 in Atlanta, he said he absolutely had no idea, but had heard that The TJ Show would be added on a number of his Westwood One Syndicated affiliates. We also asked how tough it might be to tune in and listen to his successor from his longtime studio?. "Totally at peace with this, man. I'm sure it'll be surreal. But I had my time.
As for the immediate future, he and his fiance plan to travel abroad. He also plans now to put more focus on getting shows to Pionaire Podcast Network. "I think it's very unique in that its owner comes from the talent side of things. I want to provide the same type of excitement, creativity and freedom I had in morning radio. I'm looking at all sorts of podcasts and giving them the space (and the marketing) to truly be themselves. I'm excited about it. I may even do my own travel podcast at some point. "
"Meanwhile, The sun is rising in San Diego right in front of me and I'm on my computer. Everything I didn't want in retirement. lol. You and I are forever connected Don (Anthony). Talk to ya soon." Top Photo/ANF Screengrab
Julian On The Hunt For Next Opportunity
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 24TH, 2025 – Julian aka JulianOnTheRadio checked in and wanted to share that he is available for his next full-time opportunity. He most recently co-hosted for Mercedes In The Morning at MIX 94.1 Las Vegas.
His resume show PM drive at former Lotus Hot AC KPLZ (Star 101.5)/Seattle, Afternoons at KYLD (WiLD 94.9)/San Francisco, KZZP (104.7 Kiss FM) Phoenix, Mornings & Nights at WBBM (B96)/Chicago, and WIHT (Hot 99.5)/Washington, DC. Julian also has extensive voice-tracking experience, along with references on deck.
Check out his latest aircheck HERE as well as his website HERE and if you haven't seen the long form video he dropped last year. A kind of get to know you piece that can be viewed on Socials | @julianontheradio & Web | julianontheradio.com
Michelle Lehman: Free Local Radio In Cars Is Not A Luxury, But a Critical Lifeline When Disaster Strikes
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 24TH, 2025 – Michelle Lehman, NAB's Chief of Staff and Executive Vice President, Public Affairs, writes that recently Tesla announced plans to remove FM radio – in addition to AM – from its low-cost models (Tesla Model 3 shown below). Instead, their customers will have to rely on streaming and paired smartphone audio. But when disaster strikes and internet service goes down, local radio in cars becomes a lifeline – not a luxury.
Radio is one of the most reliable, universal ways Americans receive urgent information, and AM radio is the backbone of the emergency alert system. “When the power is out and cell service is down, AM radio becomes a critical lifeline,” wrote the International Association of Fire Chiefs. “Its long range and ability to operate during power outages, natural disasters and extreme weather events make it an indispensable resource for those in desperate need of reliable updates. As first responders, we can receive news about roads closing, dams breaking, and rescue efforts by tuning into local AM radio stations in our vehicles.”
Automakers like Tesla put profits above public safety when they remove local radio. Vehicles remain one of the primary places Americans listen to radio each day, and during emergencies, over‑the‑air radio saves lives. Streaming over cellular data or internet is vulnerable to network outages and can require subscription fees. Radio is a local, trusted medium, anchored in communities across America, that responds when emergencies happen and when lives are at stake.
Each month, 82 million listeners depend on AM radio to always be on, delivering news, sports, talk, traffic and weather reports they depend on every day. Lawmakers understand the public safety benefits of radio. That’s why more than 340 senators and House members are supporting the bipartisan AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, which would require AM radio as a standard safety feature in all new cars. The time is now to pass this critical legislation and protect Americans behind the wheel. Make your voice heard at Depend on AM Radio. Bottom Photo/Tesla
Curtis Sliwa Quits Radio Show During Fiery On-Air Clash After Being Called On To Drop Out Of Race
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 23RD, 2025 – Popular New York host and Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa angrily quit his radio show at 77 WABC on Wednesday in a fiery on-air showdown after its owner and one of the station’s fellow host called on him to drop out of the race. The New York Post reports he raged on the station’s airwaves “you will never see me at the studios of WABC again” as he accused colleagues of betraying him and complained to host Sid Rosenberg that the station was giving preferable treatment to independent candidate, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
“Let me just say Sid, I am directing my comments to everybody at WABC,” Sliwa told Rosenberg, who is nudging Sliwa to move aside so Cuomo has the best shot at upsetting Democratic nominee and front-runner Zohran Mamdani. “They have said I’m selfish. Selfish? Are you out of your mind?” Sliwa continued. “… But that’s why you will never see me at the studios of WABC again, never, no matter how this election turns out.”
Station owner, John Catsimatidis, said in an interview with The New York Post following the on-air blowup, “Regardless of all the news going around, I’ve always said great things about Curtis Sliwa, about how well he knows the city. But in a places like New York City where 70% of New York City are Democrats, the real Democrat is Andrew Cuomo, not Zohran Mamdani and Democrats should vote for Cuomo. I’ve never asked that he leave the race but recommended that a lot of other people have said he should."
According to the Post, Catsimatidis also implied Wednesday he doesn’t believe Sliwa’s time at the station has ended after his emotional vow. “I’ve supported Curtis for the last 30 years, his organizations and him,” he said. “Me and Curtis have a handshake deal and he has a 30-year contract. When he calms down, I believe Curtis has always been reasonable.” Read New York Post article HERE
Top photo: Lev Radin - Bottom Howard Weiss both from Shutterstock
Audacy: Radio And Podcast Hosts Aren't Just Entertainers; They’re The Original Influencers
Audacy's CMO Jenny Nelson says in their latest State of Audio Report, "I’ve always been fascinated by the talent behind the mic — how a single voice can reach thousands, yet somehow feel like it’s speaking just to you. Growing up, the Radio was my daily companion. On the way to school, my family 
would listen in the car, laughing along with our favorite morning show and talking about the stories, jokes, and interviews throughout our day. And yes, I called in to my favorite show to hear my name on the Radio. Today, of course, my lineup has expanded to digital formats, including podcasts (Search Engine is on heavy rotation), and it feels just personal."
Nelson adds, "That connection is because these hosts are more than entertainers — they’re friends. In fact, many have described Radio hosts as the original influencers. Long before “creator economy” was a buzz phrase, they were building loyalty, trust, and communities. Today, they’ve leveled up: anchoring morning shows, launching podcasts, engaging fans on social media, and showing up live at community events. Whatever you choose to call them — creators, influencers, hosts, talent — these trusted voices are moving into the center of the thriving creator economy. And the timing couldn’t be more powerful. Creator marketing is still booming, but the ground is shifting."
Audio is different: with chosen, intentional listening and relationships built on trust. The numbers tell the story. Audio creator revenues have more than doubled since 2020. Your favorite sports announcers, morning show hosts, and podcasters are fielding the future of influencers marketing one mic at a time. That’s the creator effect. Authentic, influential, and impossible to ignore. Read the full guide here.
NEW 102.7’s 'Karen Carson In The Morning' Raises Over $31,000 During Its Walk for Animals (
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 22ND, 2025 – Audacy's NEW 102.7 FM (WNEW-FM) in New York, raised over $31,000 for Animal Care Centers of New York City (ACC of NYC) during its second “Walk for Animals.” Anthony “Intern Anthony” Malerba, co-host of “Karen Carson in the Morning,” walked 13.8-miles on Friday morning across Hylan Boulevard, the longest street in Staten Island to encourage the community to donate and help local animals in need.
“We are incredibly proud of the ‘Karen Carson in the Morning’ show for raising over $31,000 for the ACC of NYC,” said Rob Miller, Brand Manager, NEW 102.7. “This is a cause that is deeply personal to the team, and to see Intern Anthony, a Staten Island native, walk the longest street in his home borough to rally support shows an extraordinary level of dedication. This effort, combined with the amazing generosity of our listeners, is a powerful example of the community spirit NEW 102.7 stands for.”
While Intern Anthony was on the road, his co-hosts Karen Carson and Johnny Mingione supported him on the airwaves, prompting listeners to donate to ACC of NYC and giving listeners live updates on how the walk was progressing. ACC of NYC strives to keep the city safe and end animal homelessness across the five boroughs by rescuing abandoned cats, dogs and rabbits and placing them with loving families.
Left to Right: Johnny Mingione, Karen Carson, Anthony Malerba)
In The Wake Of Public Media Funding Cuts, KCRW Los Angeles Lays Off 10% Of Its Staff
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 21ST, 2025 – Amid the elimination of federal funding for public media, beloved SoCal radio station KCRW-FM (89.9) has laid off 10% of its staff, including several popular DJs. The LA Times reports the staff cuts included well-known hosts Jeremy Sole, Jason Kramer and José Galván. “Like so many other public media organizations, KCRW is restructuring parts of the organization in response to our new budget reality,” KCRW’s president, Jennifer Ferro, wrote in a memo announcing the cuts. “The result of this restructuring is a 10% reduction in our staff. These decisions were made after careful consideration of how best to position us against the twin challenges of needing to adapt to how people consume media today as well as the loss of federal dollars.”
The Times says the memo did not name Sole, Kramer and Galván, but each confirmed their departures in mournful and, at times, critical notes on social media. “For the past 14 years, I have contributed my musical taste and unique perspective to KCRW,” Galván wrote. “Growing up in LA, it was a dream come true to be a part of the elite DJs of KCRW. Sadly as of this morning, I am no longer living that dream. I was let go, along with some other staples of the station."
Kramer, a 27-year veteran of the station, said that “I have unfortunately been let go from KCRW. Along with some other of the best DJs in the world. The station will always have a place in my heart, and every artist that I play I will still be there in another way.”
The cuts are the latest cuts for the music-heavy station. Last year, KCRW faced a $3-million budget deficit and offered voluntary buyouts. Read LA Times article HERE - Photo/KCRW Facebook
Tracy Johnson: During Times Of Change, 'The Challenge Isn’t Survival. It’s Staying Relevant'
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 21ST, 2025 – In Tracy Johnson's latest 'Insider Radio Network' article titled: 'Staying Relevant in a Shrinking Industry: Continuous Learning and Reinvention,' he points out, "If you’ve been in radio long enough, even for a couple of years, you’ve seen the cycle: consolidation, layoffs, “restructuring,” and the same pep talk about doing more with less. In a way, it’s validating to be one of the survivors. On the other hand, is that what you’d want? How do you stay relevant in a shrinking industry?"
"In reality, most industries are reducing humans, but the demand for what radio people do best has never been bigger. Storytelling, connecting, entertaining, and managing (programming) content are thriving across platforms," says Johnson. "The challenge isn’t survival. It’s staying relevant during cutbacks and a technology attack that threatens your relevance." Among Johnson's suggestions is to embrace new tools (Even If They Scare You). You don’t need to become a coder or data scientist, but you do need to experiment and learn to use tools that make you faster, sharper, and more creative."
"A talented and resourceful person who can leverage AI can legitimately replace two or three dinosaurs who reject new tech and start reinventing yourself," says Johnson, "Learn to use AI writing and voice tools like ChatGPT or ElevenLabs. Don’t worry. Mastering AI voices won’t make you irrelevant or bring on your own demise. It puts you on the cutting edge! If you’re a producer, have you experimented with audio editing and mixing shortcuts in software like Hindenburg?"
Johnson adds, "Don’t wait for corporate to train you or provide solutions. They probably won’t. Start playing. Curiosity is your new job security. Figure out the answers your boss wants and start doing it! - Read article HERE
Sean Howard: Why Treating Creators As 'Bedroom Kids' Blinded Incumbents To The Real Competition
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 20TH, 2025 – Flightpath CEO, Sean Howard writes that on September 3rd, the NY Times ran a headline, “Behind the Numbers: How Hollywood Missed Its Mark This Summer”, on how an expected return to pre-COVID spending failed to happen. We believe that consumption patterns for traditional entertainment will not return to pre-COVID levels. And while COVID had a drastic impact on the industry, it was not the cause of the ongoing decline. The most positive interpretation of the chart below is that the curve may be starting to flatten, but there is no sign of a rebound from a trend that began in 2014.
Howard proposes that what we are seeing is instead a massive disruption in how we consume entertainment content and how publishers distribute the same. An IAB report, highlighting data from 2022, showed that North American consumers spend more time with creator-based media than all traditional entertainment media. And let’s not forget that digital video ad spend surpassed traditional TV spend in 2024 [source: IAB] and is expected to reach 58% of spend in 2025. And yet, time and again, I run into the same misbelief that “these creators are just kids in their bedroom” and nothing for traditional media to worry about. Sure, there are plenty of creators who started with a camera in their bedroom, but a growing number of these “kids” have full-fledged and staffed businesses that are generating significant revenue while building brands that their audiences are willing to pay to watch.
Spotify made a notable move into video recently and has already seen significant growth with “more than 270 million users” watching a video podcast on Spotify. [source: Spotify] YouTube is likely the best known platform for longer-form video and recently announced they will be opening up their Digital Ad Insertion tech for YouTube creators to deliver sponsorships. A move that will transform advertising in social video, just as it did in podcast audi.
As one of many examples: Rhett and Link (shown above) met in elementary school and launched a comedy channel on YouTube. Their company, Mythical Entertainment, has a staff of over 100 people, 34 million subscribers, and partial annual earnings of $36 Million. [source: Forbes]
Disruption is never a clean line in the sand, but rather a series of forces that slowly undermine the ground an industry is built upon, with many false starts and stops, requiring and selecting for more nimble organizations (and in this case, content creators) that can adapt and leverage these changes. But the end result is a seismic transformation of the landscape. Top Photo/Mythical
Cumulus Media Sues Nielsen Alleging Violation Of Federal And State Antitrust Laws
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 20TH, 2025 – Cumulus Media has sued Nielsen in federal court, accusing it of illegally leveraging its dominance over national and local radio audience data to stifle rivals and charge inflated prices, reports Reuters. Cumulus stated in the lawsuit in Manhattan that Nielsen was violating federal and state antitrust laws by conditioning access to its national broadcast radio analytics on the purchase of separate, costly local ratings data.
Nielsen sells national and local ratings data to networks, which rely on that information to sell advertising. Cumulus buys local ratings data, and its subsidiary Westwood One, which produces national programming and services, purchases national radio ratings data. Atlanta-based Cumulus alleges that Nielsen’s sales policy forces it to buy local ratings in markets where it doesn’t need them, or risk losing access to comprehensive national data that Westwood One needs.
Cumulus owns and operates nearly 400 radio stations in more than 80 markets across the country. Its lawsuit alleges that Nielsen’s sales scheme has affected hundreds of millions of dollars of commerce. The complaint accuses New York-based Nielsen of degrading product quality, raising prices without justification and blocking competitors from gaining footholds in the industry.
Cumulus warned that advertisers and radio stations will suffer from reduced choice, inflated costs and diminished innovation if Nielsen’s conduct is allowed to flourish. The lawsuit asked a federal judge to award unspecified monetary damages and to issue a court order stopping Nielsen from continuing allegedly unfair business practices.
In a statement, Nielsen said Cumulus's lawsuit is "entirely without merit" and "we will respond accordingly." Cumulus in a statement said it was suing over "anticompetitive conduct that we believe is unlawful and damaging."
NuVoodoo: Radio Needs To Highlight Its Human, Local, And Interactive Elements
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 20TH, 2025 – NuVoodoo's Leigh Jacobs writes: "While Nielsen’s new 3-minute rules have lifted AQH, revenue remains challenging. It’s understandable to see programming personnel being trimmed back at many companies. It’s sad for the individuals involved and sad for the business as it works to compete with the onslaught of digital competition in the audio space. Managers are left with fewer bodies to help stations lean into the experiences that streaming cannot replicate. Even with fewer beating hearts, radio needs to highlight its human, local, and interactive elements. "
Even with cuts, radio needs to maximize the "Live & Local" experience in key dayparts. Spotify and its peers are algorithms. Radio has people who can be authentic and relatable. NuVoodoo study data shows many listeners tune in for companionship and connection – things music algorithms can't provide.
Client appearances are the only opportunities some stations get to meet listeners. In-person events, concerts, and remote broadcasts build a face-to-face connection and sense of community. Ensure that your staff and equipment look sharp and represent the station at its best – entertaining, community-involved, warm, caring. Remember that allowing passers-by to register for a drawing can get those people into your station database.
Use the resources you have to generate even more local content. Use the power of the station’s social media connections in the community to gather updates on hyper-local goings-on. Use your station’s social media presence to gather the community perspective on local events, trending regional topics, and pop culture. Celebrate heroes in your community whenever you can.
Make sure someone is trained, empowered, and given the task of responding to listener emails, social media comments, and texts to show that listener input is valued. If possible, follow up to make contact and get listener audio for the most interesting emails, comments, and texts – and put them on the air. By being human, local, and interactive, radio stations emphasize the strengths that differentiate them from the purely algorithmic and passive listening experience of Spotify and other streamers.
Reach out to Leigh Jacobs at leigh@nuvoodoo.com for more information.
NEW 102.7's Anthony From Karen Carson Show Takes A Nearly 14-Mile Walk For Animals
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 20TH, 2025 – Early this past Friday morning, Anthony from NEW 102.7's (WNEW-FM, New York City) Karen Carson in the Morning took to the streets of beautiful Staten Island for the second year in a row for Anthony's Walk For Animals...he walked the nearly 14 mile stretch of the infamous Hylan Boulevard to raise money and awareness for animals in need! "Happy to say that we broke last year's record...collecting 30K and counting for Animal Care Centers of NYC.
Anthony was challenged to surpass last year's collection goal by the end of the morning show at 10am and was around 10K short with 15 mins left...so his co-hosts Karen and Johnny said they would stay in studio and play Sarah McLachlan's "Angel" (everyone's favorite pet adoption song) on repeat until the donations came in to get to 30K...they played it 4 times, listeners asked to make it stop and they were able to quickly collect the remaining 10K needed.
iHeart Consumer Study: 82 Percent of Respondents Worry About AI’s Societal Impact
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 17TH, 2025 – Earlier this week, iHeartMedia released its third annual consumer study titled, "AudioCon 3.0: The Human Consumer." Over the past three years this acclaimed series of consumer studies -- from the New American Consumer with Malcolm Gladwell to America’s Ignored Consumer -- has given marketers a deeper understanding of today's evolving audiences. The "Human" Consumer study, which brings together research across age groups and demographics, demonstrates the impact that media and technology are having on consumers, shaping their beliefs and behavior.
The new research, fielded through Critical Mass Media for iHeartMedia, found that 82 percent of respondents worry about AI’s societal impact, and 9 in 10 believe it’s important to know the media they consume is created by a real person. Most respondents long to feel ‘human’ again through deep, meaningful relationships, but simultaneously feel overwhelmed by their phones, hindering the ability to pursue these connections.
These conflicting sentiments are driving new consumer behavior. "The data shows us that consumers are emotionally driven, digitally fatigued and yearning for authenticity in an increasingly algorithmic world," said Lainie Fertick, President of Insights for iHeartMedia. "This is especially critical with rapid technology advancements and the growing use of AI in the media industry. For marketers, it creates both hurdles and unique opportunities to connect with audiences in this new environment." See report HERE
Connoisseur's 103.1 The Wolf Listener Wins 'Riley Green’s Machine' Autographed Motorcycle
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 17TH, 2025 – Country radio favorite 103.1 The Wolf (WWSK-FM) turned up the excitement for listeners with its latest promotion, “Riley Green’s Machine,” giving one lucky fan the chance to win an autographed motorcycle from Long Island’s own Cross Bay Motor Sports. After weeks of anticipation, Kelly Ford, the Wolf’s beloved PM drive star, handed over the keys and helmet to thrilled listener Donna Campisi who took home the exclusive ride signed by country music star Riley Green.
“We love connecting Wolf listeners to their favorite country stars,” said Robby Bridges, Program Director of 103.1 The Wolf. “We can’t wait to see Riley Green’s machine cruising the LIE and Southern State!” The Wolf qualified listeners with “I ride with The Wolf T-shirts” on the air during August and September with the winner randomly selected from the pool of qualifiers. Listeners across Long Island tuned in for their chance to call in to qualify to win, ultimately for the opportunity to own a piece of country music history on wheels.
Edison: Nearly 30% Of Americans 13-24 Say They Are Now Creating And Sharing Content Online
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 16TH, 2025 – In this week's Edison Insights, they take a closer look at the influencer industry which plays an integral and immense role in both the culture and economy of the United States. According to a 2024 article from Forbes, the influencer industry is worth approximately $250 billion and is expected to reach $500 billion by 2027. Creators like Mr. Beast, Charli D'Amelio, Alix Earle, and Ms. Rachel all have millions of followers as well as lucrative brand and merchandising deals. While many of us are familiar with these household names.
Edison Research wanted to capture and understand what percent of the overall American population consider themselves digital content creators. The following showcases some of the never-before-seen data we have about digital content creators from a national online survey among Americans 13+. As of May 2025, 18% of Americans 13+ say that they are currently involved with the creation or production of any original content that is shared publicly online.
Close to one-fifth of Americans are spending their time creating and then sharing content online for others to view, like, and share. Probably not surprising is the fact that this changes significantly when we look at different age segments. Just under one-third, 30%, of Americans 13-24 say that they are digital content creators. Interestingly, a similar percentage of those 25-44, 28%, also said yes to this question.
Of course, Millennials and Zoomers/Gen Z have grown up with the internet. It’s no surprise then that digital content creation is highest among these age segments. We see a sharp and dramatic decline when we look at the same question among Americans 45+. Only 7% of that group says that they are digital creators. The figures outlined above reflect only a small sample of the data Edison Research currently has on digital content creators in 2025.
What Happens When College Students Critique AI-Generated Podcasts; 'High Scores Were Rare'
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 15TH, 2025 – Amplifi Media's Steven Goldstein writes in this week's Blogstein that in his Business of Podcasting class at NYU he asked a room full of college students to listen to AI-generated podcasts and rate them on a 1-to-5 scale? For the occasion, he invited his longtime friend and podcast research authority Tom Webster, Partner at Sounds Profitable, to join as a guest speaker.
Tom led a discussion on where the next generation of podcast listeners will come from — and we conducted a timely in-class experiment, turning the room into a mini focus group to explore how students reacted to AI-generated podcasts. Each student selected an AI-generated show from Inception Point AI. hey chose one that looked interesting from roughly 450 available shows, gave it a listen and rating, with 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest quality. 'High scores were rare.'
'Reddit' and 'How to Train Your Dog' managed to earn 4s. Most of the others hovered in the middle or lower. The average was 2.3. When Tom asked whether the students would have known the shows were AI-made if they hadn’t been told, several said yes. They felt the conversations were flat, too perfect, and oddly emotionless. Interestingly, the few AI podcasts that fared better were instructional, like 'How to Train Your Dog' or 'The Science Behind Strength.' My students found these shows more acceptable because they didn’t expect personality; they just wanted information. That said, even the students who appreciated the factual content missed the anecdotes, opinions, and credentials that human hosts use to build trust.
Tom, ever the researcher, pressed the group with a question: if the information is correct and useful, does it matter that it’s AI? Most said it does. Podcasts, they explained, are a human medium. They tune in for the voices, quirks, laughter, and even tangents. As one student put it: “I listen to podcasts for the personality of the person — that’s what makes me care.” Read entire blog HERE
KKLZ Morning Host Mike O’Brian To Retire After Nearly 4 Decades On Las Vegas Radio
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 15TH, 2025 – Longtime 96.3 KKLZ-FM morning host Mike O’Brian has announced he will retire at the end of October, concluding an extraordinary broadcasting career spanning nearly 40 years with Beasley Media Group and leaving an indelible mark on the Las Vegas radio landscape. The station will celebrate O’Brian’s legendary career throughout the month of October with on-air tributes, special guests, and listener memories. His final broadcast will be Friday, October 31, 2025.
O’Brian, best known as co-host of the iconic “Mike & Carla Morning Show,” has been a staple of Southern Nevada mornings since the early 1990s. His quick wit, relatable humor, and genuine connection with listeners have made him one of the region’s most beloved and respected on-air personalities.
“Mike is one of those rare broadcasters who truly becomes part of people’s lives,” said Justin Chase, Chief Content Officer of Beasley Media Group. “For close to 40 years, he’s been the voice Las Vegas wakes up to - making us laugh, think, and feel connected. His passion, talent, and heart have made a lasting impact on KKLZ and Las Vegas. We are very grateful for all he’s done.”
“Hosting this show has truly been the honor of a lifetime,” said O’Brian. “When I started in radio, I never imagined I’d spend decades waking up with Las Vegas - laughing with our listeners, sharing stories, and being part of their daily lives. I’m humbled by the recognition and deeply grateful for the memories." His longtime co-host Carla Rea added, “Working with Mike has been the highlight of my career. He’s more than a co-host — he’s a partner and a dear friend. I couldn’t be happier for him as he begins this next chapter, and I know our listeners feel the same!”
Rob Stone & Holly Hutton Return For Afternoons On 99.5 WYCD-FM Detroit
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 15TH, 2025 – Audacy's 99.5 WYCD Detroit announced a new lineup and on-air programming changes. Beginning this week “The Rob and Holly Show,” hosted by Rob Stone and Holly Hutton, will move to afternoon drive from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. ET. Sean “Coop” Tabler moves from afternoons to host evenings from 7:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. ET.
The revamped 99.5 WYCD weekday programming lineup is as follows. 5:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. ET: “Josh, Rachael and Grunwald in the Morning” 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. ET: “Katie and Company.” 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. ET: “The Rob and Holly Show” 7:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. ET: Coop 12:00 a.m. - 5:00 a.m. ET: “Mo & Styckman” On “The Rob and Holly Show,”
Coop is a veteran voice to 99.5 WYCD listeners. He previously hosted nights at the station from 2010 to 2015. He rejoined WYCD in 2020 for middays. He can also be heard on Big 98.1 (WOGL-FM) in Philadelphia, weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and Saturdays 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. ET, 100.7 The Wolf (KKWF-FM) in Seattle from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. PT, Kiss Country 99.9 (WKIS-FM) in Miami from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. ET and nationwide for “Coop’s Rockin’ Country” Saturday nights from 7:00 pm. to 12:00 a.m. local time.
Mark Schreiber, VP/GM of Cornerstone Research, Announces Retirement After 37 Years in Radio
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 15TH, 2025 – Mark Schreiber, Vice President and General Manager of Cornerstone Research, has announced his retirement at the end of this year. “This has not been an easy decision,” said Schreiber. “I love what I do and will deeply miss not only our longtime clients, but especially my close-knit Cornerstone family. But our most valuable asset is time, and I’m looking forward to being on my own schedule — and catching more late-night West Coast Dodgers games!”
Schreiber was the first hire when Brad Riegel founded Cornerstone Research in 2000. “Mark and I met and worked together at Tapscan, when it was a software company and not just a product,” said Riegel. “I knew he was the right person to help lay the foundation for Cornerstone. His talent, dedication, and leadership have been instrumental to our success.”
Reflecting on his career, Schreiber added, “I’m tremendously proud that Brad, our colleagues, and I built a successful company from the ground up — and that after twenty-five years, it’s still thriving. I can’t thank enough the many programmers, researchers, and managers who have supported us and have been such a pleasure to work with.”
Joel Denver And Mike Agovino Unveil SonicTrek.ai An AI-Driven Audio Syndication Company
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 15TH, 2025 – SonicTrek.ai announced its launch, introducing a new era of hyper-localized, 24/7, AI-infused audio content for brands worldwide. By combining Futuri’s AI technology with a proprietary process blending top-tier voice talent, curated musical selections, and dynamic writing, SonicTrek.ai delivers 100% localized audio formats tailored to engage diverse audiences. Leadership and Vision:
SonicTrek.ai is spearheaded by industry veterans Joel Denver and Mike Agovino, whose collective expertise in media innovation drives the company’s mission to redefine audio syndication. “SonicTrek.ai is about creating authentic, localized experiences that resonate with listeners while leveraging the power of AI to deliver unmatched creativity and efficiency,” said Joel Denver, Partner and Chief Executive Officer at SonicTrek.ai. “We’re not just building brands; we’re crafting immersive audio worlds.”
Introducing SonicTrek’s flagship AI brand Phoebe.fm Curiously Alternative. Phoebe.fm, is a female-leaning alternative station sculpted by Dennis Constantine and hosted by Phoebe, a captivating virtual with real talent.
You can stream Phoebe now at SonicTrek.ai - Alongside Phoebe.fm, SonicTrek.ai is simultaneously launching three additional 24/7 AI brands, each with their own unique virtual voices:
-- MyCountry.fm: An innovative Country music experience mastered by Charlie Cook with heartfelt storytelling local to your market.
-- Starship.fm: A reimagination of Classic Rock, designed by Lee Abrams, with a deep and stellar mix of anthems, deep tracks, and surprises anchored in cinematic production.
-- CoolClassics.ai: A vibrant Classic Hits format delivering your favorite music with a contemporary twist crafted by Brian Kelly.
For more information or to check out the incredible sound of AI-infused audio, visit www.sonictrek.ai
'Great Content Doesn’t Find An Audience Anymore, It Earns One,'- Mark Ramsey
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 14TH, 2025 – What makes one show stick while others fade faster than a station? In the latest episode of BRANDwidth on Demand, media strategist Mark Ramsey — the creative force behind Wondery’s acclaimed 'Inside Psycho,' 'Inside Jaws', and "Inside The Exorcist — says it’s not about luck. It’s about strategy. Known for transforming audio into cinematic storytelling, Ramsey has guided both broadcasters and streamers to think bigger — and sound smarter. In his latest episode, he reveals how creators can find their “blue ocean” ideas, balance art with business, and design content that actually matters.
“Great content doesn’t find an audience anymore… it earns one,” Ramsey explains. “If you can’t show why it matters, no amount of promotion will make it stick.” Co-hosts Kipper McGee and Dave Martin explore Ramsey’s take on what radio can still learn from Hollywood, how to build brand-safe sponsor relationships, and why preparation is the secret ingredient behind authentic spontaneity.
Each BRANDwidth on Demand episode offers insights from top industry leaders, helping broadcasters and podcasters use today’s tools to grow tomorrow’s brands. 🎧 BRANDwidth on Demand featuring Mark Ramsey: “The 3 Checkmarks for Audio That Sticks” is now available wherever you get your podcasts - get more info in banner at bottom of page.
Audacy And Monumental Sports Announce Multi-Year Partnership Extension
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 14TH, 2025 – Audacy and Monumental Sports & Entertainment (MSE) have announced a multi-year extension of their broadcast and content partnership, ushering in a new era of expanded coverage across audio and video platforms. 106.7 The Fan (WJFK-FM) is now the flagship station for the Washington Wizards and continues as the flagship for the Washington Capitals. Select games – including Wizards broadcasts when both teams play – will also air on sister stations The Team 980 (WTEM-AM) and 99.1 WDCH (WDCH-FM). Washington Mystics games will continue airing on 106.7 The Fan, The Team 980, 99.1 WDCH and 1580 The Bet (WJFK-AM).
The broadcasts, including halftime reports, will feature live audio simulcasts from Monumental Sports Network’s (MNMT) television broadcast. The fan-favorite "The Sports Junkies" show, which also simulcasts every weekday morning on MNMT, will now be available to watch live and on demand on 106.7 The Fan’s YouTube channel. The partnership will also bring more of Audacy’s top-rated programming to MNMT. “BMitch and Finlay,” airing daily from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ET, will now simulcast on MNMT starting November 3, offering D.C. sports fans even more access to beloved local voices through MSE’s independent media platform.
“We are excited to extend and expand our partnership with Monumental Sports to enhance the listening and viewing experience for fans,” said Ivy Savoy-Smith, Senior Vice President and Market Manager, Audacy Washington D.C.
101 WRIF And 94.7 WCSX Celebrate The Life And Music of Ozzy Osbourne With Sold-Out Concert
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 14TH, 2025 – Beasley Media Group’s 101 WRIF and 94.7 WCSX joined forces to pay tribute to rock’s one and only “Prince of Darkness” with a sold-out Celebration of Ozzy concert event at District 142 in Wyandotte on Friday, October 10th. To kick off the Halloween season in true rock ‘n’ roll fashion, the two legendary Detroit rock stations came together to honor the music and legacy of Ozzy Osbourne.
The night featured powerhouse performances from Resurrection – A Judas Priest Tribute and Detroit’s own Ozzy Rebourne, who delivered an electrifying set celebrating the timeless catalog of one of rock’s greatest icons. Fans packed the venue as both WRIF and WCSX cranked up the volume and celebrated Ozzy’s music, energy, and influence. Every concert-goer received exclusive limited-edition stickers from each station — WRIF’s “Ozzy Forever” and WCSX’s “Long Live Ozzy” — designed to commemorate the night. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales benefited the Michigan Parkinson Foundation, continuing Detroit’s proud tradition of combining music and community impact.
“This event was a true celebration of everything Ozzy stands for - great music, larger-than-life energy, and an enduring connection with fans,” said Program Director Jade Springart. “To see WRIF and WCSX unite for this cause and sell out District 142 shows just how strong the Motor City’s love for rock and Ozzy really is.”
Premiere Networks’ Phil Hendrie Stars In The Off-Broadway Play, 'The Pitch'
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 14TH, 2025 – The dark comedy 'The Pitch' has been dubbed the “Glengarry Glenn Ross for a new generation,” by Broadway World. Hendrie, in this rare New York stage appearance, plays Mel, an intimidating IRS agent.
Premiere Networks and Hendrie recently announced reuniting and partnering on his long-running podcast “The World of Phil Hendrie”. The 30-minute podcast features a modern-day satirical view of the world through the eyes of Hendrie and his multi-verse of characters.
Phil Hendrie's agent and friend David Katz of the Elvis Duran Group, attended the opening preview night and snapped the shown photos
iHeart Milwaukee Debuts The New B97.3 Milwaukee
Green Bay Packers football and Wisconsin Badgers football, previously heard on 97.3-FM, will move to 95.7 WRIT-FM
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 14TH, 2025 – iHeartMedia Milwaukee announced today the debut of the new B97.3, Feel Good Favorites, effective immediately. B97.3 will broadcast Adult Contemporary music, focusing on songs from artists including Adele, Michael Jackson, P!nk, Maroon 5 and Madonna. The station will also add a full lineup of personalities.
"We welcome listeners to Milwaukee’s new home for Feel Good Favorites, B97.3,” said Dan Lenz, iHeartMedia Milwaukee Market President. “This new radio station will blend wonderfully into our portfolio of existing stations and prove to be a big hit with listeners and clients, alike!"
Green Bay Packers football and Wisconsin Badgers football, previously heard on 97.3-FM, will move to 95.7 WRIT-FM.
SPECai Welcomes Renda Media As Its 50th Broadcasting Partner
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 14TH, 2025 – SPECai proudly announces that Renda Media, with its stations throughout Pennsylvania and Florida, is the newest group to use the leading platform for AI generated spec spots. The multi-award-winning service, built through a unique partnership by Compass Media Networks, Benztown and ENCO Systems, allows account executives to create fully customized spec spots in seconds using powerful AI technology.
Renda Media President Tony Renda says “We are thrilled to partner with SPECai to enhance our radio commercials production at Renda Media. By integrating SPECai into our creative process, we can efficiently deliver innovative and compelling advertising solutions, ensuring our clients reach their target markets effectively and with unprecedented dynamism."
SPECai, was recently named as a RedTech Best in Show at the IBC in Amsterdam. Leading companies including Beasley Media Group, Connoisseur Media, Adams Radio Group, Southern Stone Communications, and Midwest Communications, along with dozens of other groups, have found SPECai to provide high quality spec spots in a user-friendly environment for their account executives to close more business faster. For more info, contact Nancy Abramson at (914) 708-1451, nabramson@compassmedianetworks.com.
Tracy Johnson: The Formula For Creating Winning Radio Contests - 'Keep It Simple, But Make It Fun'
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 13TH, 2025 – In Tracy Johnson's latest Insider Radio Network's article, he says contests must be simple or your audience will become confused, and that is a very bad thing. But simple is only half of the equation. A contest that’s easy to understand but boring to hear isn’t a success. You may appeal to 2% of the Cume (those lovable Prize Pigs), but everyone else tunes it out.
The real challenge (and art) of contest design is making it simple to follow, fun to play, and entertaining to hear. Keep it simple, but make it fun. Keep It Simple, But Make It Fun Most stations confuse simple with stupid. They strip contests down to a phrase and a phone number: “Be caller number nine and win now!” “When you hear the keyword, text it in!” That’s simple. One listen, and they get it, but it’s also laziness disguised as clarity. Sure, it’s easy to explain. But for 98% of listeners who will never call or text (they’re not contest players), it’s also meaningless, irrelevant, and annoying.
Be Interesting, Not Complicated - Listeners shouldn’t need a whiteboard and a legal degree to figure out how to play and win your contest. When the process becomes the story, you’ve lost the magic. Albert Einstein said it best: “Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.” That’s your contest strategy in one sentence. Read Article HERE
Moneyball: Top Reasons Why P1's Change Stations
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 13TH, 2025 – NuVoodoo's Leigh Jacobs writes in this week's 'Moneyball, "When we asked the 2,000+ nationwide respondents in NuVoodoo Ratings Prospects Study 26 what causes them to change stations, too many bad songs is at or near the top of the ranking among most format P1 groups. Even among the few formats where bad songs are the cause of tuneout for less than half the P1s, they remain an unforced error for at least two P1s in five.
Those among our already research-friendly sample who would meet the necessary criteria to be included in the ratings sample (labeled “RPS Yes” in the chart above), 55% say bad songs are a cause of tuneout. This means bad songs are nearly ten points a bigger cause of tuneout among those likely to give radio its report card. Assisting a new client managing their on-air library after a recent music test, the client remarked that the “safe list” they’d been using suddenly didn’t feel very safe. Songs they had in power rotations weren’t very strong in the music test and many of the songs that should be in power rotations had been in lower rotation or off the station.
The station had been relying on so-called safe lists pulled from Mediabase monitors. It’s been done for years: you find in-format stations from larger markets in your region or from markets that seem similar to yours and determine the most-commonly played gold titles across that panel of stations. If everyone’s doing it, it must be safe – or so the thinking goes. But, unless you know how recently those stations have tested their music, that thinking isn’t as safe as it used to be. Music testing is getting less frequent across the industry.
Stations that used to conduct two library tests per year are now being asked to live with one test. Stations that used to conduct annual tests may get one every other year – or none at all. Among a panel of stations being used to model a safe list, it’s all too possible that none of them has a recent music test. Songs that became burned out from overexposure or just fell out of favor remain in the list. Songs that have become better liked due to exposure elsewhere don’t show up at all. Read entire post HERE
Urban One Makes Key Leadership Moves Across Atlanta, Dallas And Houston
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 13TH, 2025 – Urban One, Inc. announced key leadership appointments within its Audio Division. Among those named include Pam McKay who's been named Vice President, Market Manager of Urban One Atlanta. In Houston, McKay led the integration of the former Cox stations, improved local programming performance, delivered standout local activations, and forged deep community partnerships. Her results-focused leadership and ability to unite teams behind clear strategic goals make her well-suited to lead the Atlanta market into its next phase of success.
Also named is Doug Abernethy who returns to Urban One as Regional Vice President, overseeing the company’s Texas markets, including Houston and Dallas. Abernathy previously managed the Houston cluster, where he earned a reputation for steady leadership, operational rigor, and consistent results. His return brings valuable continuity and additional executive depth as Urban One continues to build momentum across Texas.
“Pam and Doug represent the kind of leadership that moves our business forward—strategic, disciplined, and performance-driven,” said Alfred C. Liggins III, CEO of Urban One, Inc. “Pam’s proven record of building high-performing teams and driving market growth, combined with Doug’s operational expertise and regional insight, strengthens our ability to deliver results and position these markets for long-term success.” These appointments reflect Urban One’s ongoing investment in experienced leadership that supports collaboration, growth, and sustained success across all its markets.
Dr. Demento Airs Final Broadcast On 55th Anniversary
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 13TH, 2025 – On October 11th, his 55th anniversary, Dr. Demento aired his final broadcast on October. AV Club reports he marked the occasion by treating 'dementors and dementoids' to the longest nationally broadcast Dr. Demento Show ever, a three-and-a-half-hour-long extravaganza, counting down Demento’s “Top 40 most demanded demented discs and tapes” from across his career.
Back in late April, he announced that that would be his final regular show until his final episode this month. The Minneapolis native Barret 'Dr. Demento' Hansen first introduced radio listeners to his demented alter ego in 1970 on KPPC in Pasadena and some years later became syndicated.
Demento released his final traditional episode on May 31. The following day, he announced his retirement and spent his remaining months on air hosting retrospective episodes, counting down his favorite records decade by decade. At 84, Dr. Demento has undoubtedly earned his retirement. Curating popular culture’s most disposable art form is hard and thankless work.
Megyn Kelly To Headline Her Own SiriusXM Channel As Part New Multi-Year Extension
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 10TH, 2025 – SiriusXM announced that Megyn Kelly has signed a new multi-year deal with the company, extending the successful relationship that has made The Megyn Kelly Show one of the platform’s most successful political and cultural programs.
As part of the agreement, Kelly will headline her own SiriusXM channel, The Megyn Kelly Channel, which will take over channel 111 starting November 4. The new channel will continue to air The Megyn Kelly Show, heard first and only on SiriusXM before becoming available in podcast form, and will also feature brand-new programming, including the debut of an exclusive daily after show program. Additional series, shows, and specials will be announced in the coming weeks.
“Linear television news is dead. People can’t stand those stilted, censored conversations anymore, which is exactly why this medium is thriving. I’m thrilled to deliver our bold brand of no-BS news live on SiriusXM and to be expanding my relationship with such a stellar, blue-chip brand and great partner,” said Megyn Kelly.
“Soon our listeners will have the Megyn Kelly Channel to enjoy and trust for the conversations and content they love.” Kelly recently announced the launch of her first-ever national show tour, “Megyn Kelly LIVE,” in which she will take the MK show on the road, visiting 10 cities from across the country. The tour is presented by Yrefy.com and brought to you by SiriusXM.
Cleveland State University's Transfer Of WCSB-FM To Ideastream's JazzNEO Sparks Campus Protest
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 10TH, 2025 – Hundreds gathered this week in silent demonstration after Cleveland State University transferred operations of the 89.3 FM station, ending nearly five decades of diverse campus programming, reports cleveland.com's Mary Frances McGowan. Students and community members, gathered on Tuesday in silent protest of the university’s announcement that Ideastream Public Media would take over the WCSB radio station’s operations, demanding the station be returned to student control.
The demonstration came after CSU transferred operations of the 89.3 FM station to Ideastream Public Media, ending nearly five decades of campus programming. About 200 people attended. The event was held “to mourn the loss of WCSB as a student organization and to bring students, student orgs, alums, and members of the WCSB community together,” a post on a now-deactivated WSCB Instagram account said. The changeover occurred on Friday, Oct. 3, coincidentally on College Radio Day. Under the public service operating agreement, Ideastream’s “JazzNEO” 24/7 jazz format replaced campus programming on 89.3 FM. Cleveland State retains the Federal Communications Commission license.
In the statement on Friday university president Dr. Laura Bloomberg said the decision is a “step forward” in their strategic vision. “The decision to have Ideastream oversee WCSB programming is one step forward in our Cleveland State United vision, the strategic plan for our university launched earlier this year,” Bloomberg said. “CSU is uniquely embedded within the city of Cleveland, which provides students with opportunities to benefit from strategic partnerships like this one,” Bloomberg said. “We look forward to working with Ideastream to expand access to experiential and work-based learning.” Read Cleveland.com article HERE
EDISON: Most Podcast Listening Takes Place In Middays, But Mornings Isn't Far Behind
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 9TH, 2025 – In this week's Edison Insights, it probes when podcast listening happens. Podcasts offer endless hours of entertainment and enrichment as well as intimate access to personalities and celebrities, all in a conveniently packaged and accessible product. Podcasts can be listened to or watched at any time of day but only Share of Ear© from Edison Research captures what percentage of daily podcast listening occurs in each part of the day among Americans 13+. Q3 2025 Share of Ear data is scheduled for release to subscribers early next week but we’re providing Weekly Insights readers a sneak peek of the data.
This brand-new data shows that Americans age 13+ spend 10% of their total daily audio time listening to podcasts. The greatest percentage of podcast listening occurs between 10am and 2pm, accounting for 29% of all daily podcast consumption. Early morning, between 6am and 10am is not too far behind, with 24% of podcast listening occurring within this daypart. In third is midafternoon, 2pm to 6pm, at 21% of all podcast listening time. The percentage of podcast consumption decreases from then on as we head into the evening and overnight hours.
Some people keep very different hours and schedules from the traditional 9-5 workday. Podcast listening does not disappear overnight, as 11% still occurs from 10pm to 2am and an additional 3% happens from 2am to 6am. Share of Ear captures similar data for several different platform types, ranging from AM/FM Radio to Streaming Music sources. Inquire here to find out more about Americans spend their day with audio through a Share of Ear subscription.
The Dallas Weekly: DeDe McGuire, 'The Blueprint For Leadership, Longevity, And A Love Of Craft'
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 9TH, 2025 – With DeDe McGuire's induction into The Radio Hall of Fame just weeks away, Jess Washington writes in an expansive piece for The Dallas Weekly that 'There are radio voices that fill the airwaves — and then there are the ones that fill the culture. DeDe McGuire, host of DeDe in the Morning, has done both.' Washington says, 'It’s a homegrown Texas victory — a reflection of decades of persistence, purpose, and poise.
'The Biggest Challenge Wasn’t Learning Radio — It Was Convincing People That A Woman Could Be A Successful Radio Host' - DeDe
DeDe McGuire’s journey began in Killeen, Texas, where a young woman studying telecommunications took a receptionist job at a country radio station just to get her foot in the door. One day, she was invited on-air for playful banter. The station owner’s wife told her she had “a great voice and an unbelievable personality” and should be trained for radio — but not there. They said they couldn’t “have a Black girl hosting.” And that rejection became DeDe’s redirection. She landed her first hosting opportunity at a Black-owned local station, later working her way through multiple markets across the country. She recalls that the biggest challenge wasn’t learning radio — it was convincing people that a woman could be a successful radio host. Her persistence paid off.
Since 2011, DeDe has hosted DeDe in the Morning on K104. By 2018, the show was syndicated nationally by Compass Media Networks, expanding into more than 80 markets across the U.S. In June 2025, DeDe was officially announced as part of the Radio Hall of Fame’s Class of 2025, joining an elite group that includes Alice Cooper, Julie Talbott, Mike McVay, and Sheri Lynch, among others. DeDe in the Morning is joined on air by co-hosts J.Kruz, comedian J.J. Williamson and Aye Treg alongside producer David “Breeze” Carter and the show’s operations and content lead George “Geo” Cook.
Photo/courtesy of DeDe McGuire -Steven D. Hill - Read Dallas Weekly article HERE
AWM Announces Call for Entries For 51st Annual Gracie Awards NYC/LA
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 9TH, 2025 – The Gracie Awards, presented by the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWMF), has opened the call for entries for the 51 st Annual Gracie Awards. “Each year, the Gracies spotlight extraordinary talent who are shaping the future of media,” said Becky Brooks, President of AWMF. “For more than five decades, these awards have honored powerful storytelling and representation while fueling the Foundation’s ability to invest in scholarships and programs that empower the next generation of women in our industry. As we open entries for the 51st Gracie Awards, we look forward to celebrating work that inspires audiences today and opens doors for tomorrow.”
The Gracie Awards will once again shine a spotlight on exceptional talent across various media categories, including television, streaming, radio and podcasting, from writers, journalists and actors to producers, directors and showrunners. Entries are invited from individuals, networks, and organizations, showcasing their dedication to advancing the portrayal and representation of women's voices in media content.
National winners will be honored at the Gracies Gala on May 19, 2026, at the Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills, California and local and student winners will be celebrated at the Gracies Luncheon on June 16, 2026, at Cipriani on 42 nd Street in New York. Taking on the critical roles of co-chairs again for the 2026 Gracie Awards are Heather Cohen, President at The Weiss Agency, Annie Howell, Chief Communications Officer at Hallmark Media, and Mike McVay, President of McVay Media Consulting. Key Information for Submissions: January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025. Early Bird Submission Deadline: December 11, 2025 Deadline for All Entries: January 22, 2026. To enter, CLICK HERE .
Mariner's Fan Who Caught Cal Raleigh's 61st Homer With 'Dump 61' T-Shirt, Calls Up Daly Migs
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 9TH, 2025 – No doubt you saw or read this week about the fan who caught Seattle Mariner Cal Raleigh's 61st homerun while wearing a jersey conveniently inscribed with "Dump 61 here" (If not, read article HERE). The fan, Jameson Turner (shown above left), wearing the jersey with "Dump 61 Here," was a number referring to Raleigh's combined home run total for the regular season and the playoffs. After the game, Raleigh posed alongside Jameson and handed over a baseball and an autographed bat that read: "Jameson, thanks for cheering us on and catching 61."
Being a red hot season for the Mariners, Audacy's 99.9 KISW Seattle's Daly Migs Show (shown at right with Taryn Daly, Danny V & Steve Migs) went to work and tracked Turner down and had him on their show this week. Listen to the interview HERE - Top left photo - FS1-ALDS screengrab
Connoisseur Media To Expand West Coast Footprint With Acquisition of Bonneville San Francisco
JOCKLINE, OCTOBER 8TH, 2025 – Connoisseur Media has entered into an agreement to acquire Bonneville International Corporation’s San Francisco market stations, including KUFX, KBLX, KMVQ (99.7 NOW), and KOIT. The transaction is pending regulatory approval by the FCC and is expected to close later this year. This agreement marks a significant milestone in Connoisseur Media’s ongoing 
expansion, following its recent acquisition of Alpha Media and will bring the total number of stations to 220 in 48 markets upon completion. Connoisseur currently owns KEZR and KBAY in San Jose as well as KUIC and KKIQ in the East Bay.
“San Francisco is a world-class media market, and these iconic stations are a perfect complement to our growing portfolio,” said Jeff Warshaw, Founder and CEO of Connoisseur Media. “We are excited to greatly expand our service to the Bay Area. Our goal is to have a real presence with local programming, local voices, and being a significant part of the community. That’s what defines us, and that’s what listeners and advertisers deserve.”
The broker on the transaction was Kalil & Co., Inc. Connoisseur Media had legal representation by Wilkinson Barker Knauer, LLP, while Bonneville International was represented by Strong & Hanni.
SHOCKER: Bert Weiss Announces Retirement Following 25-Year Run On Oct. 24th
JOCKLINE, SEPTEMBER 23RD, 2025 – After 25 years on air, Bert Weiss will retire from The Bert Show, bringing the nationally syndicated morning-drive program to a close with its final broadcast on Friday, Oct. 24, 2025.
Since launching the show in 2001, Weiss has become one of the industry’s most recognizable morning drive voices, building a loyal community of listeners across the country and creating a program that redefined morning radio with its candor, humor and unforgettable moments.
From being the first to put Justin Bieber on the radio to generating headline-making interviews – including when Usher revealed that a conversation on The Bert Show had inspired his “Confessions” album two decades earlier – Weiss consistently carried conversations far beyond the studio. Throughout his career, he fostered communication across cultures and lifestyles in pursuit of empathy and understanding
Beyond broadcasting, Weiss’ legacy is defined by giving back. Through his nonprofit, Bert’s Big Adventure, he has provided hundreds of children with chronic and terminal illnesses – and their families – with all-expenses-paid trips to Walt Disney World, creating memories that last far beyond a single broadcast. Following his retirement, Weiss will continue to lead the organization, ensuring its mission remains central to his life’s work.
“For 25 years, listeners have allowed me to be part of their mornings, their commutes and their lives – and that is the greatest gift of my career,” said Bert Weiss. “It’s almost unheard of in radio for an audience to stay with a show this long, and I’ll never take that loyalty for granted. Every laugh, every tough conversation and every shared moment has meant the world to me.”
His career has been recognized with inductions into the Georgia Radio Hall of Fame and Friends of Georgia Radio Hall of Fame, multiple National Radio Hall of Fame nominations and numerous “Best of Atlanta” honors.
“We launched Bert and team with a loose plan to electrify Atlanta radio with a bold, buzzing morning show on a brand-new Top 40 station, operating on a then-unreliable ‘move-in’ signal from Anniston, Alabama,” said Brian Philips, Chief Content Officer for Cumulus Media. “In the ensuing 25 years, Bert emerged as the obsessive architect of humor, truthfulness and humanitarianism. With brilliant help from a hand-picked, evolving team, he built a national award-winning powerhouse. ‘The Bert Show Era’ is a historic chapter in Atlanta – and American – radio. As he reimagined the possibilities of morning entertainment, I’m sure he will attack retirement with wild, fun originality. Thank you, Bert."
Weiss will also remain focused on Pionaire, the boutique podcast consultancy he co-founded to mentor talent and elevate authentic storytelling in the digital space. Known for its hands-on approach and curated client roster, Pionaire helps creators cut through a crowded landscape by pairing authentic content with smart strategy. Through the company, Weiss continues to champion voices and build platforms that spark real connection between audiences and talent.
As he closes this remarkable chapter, Weiss looks ahead to getting married, traveling the world and discovering new adventures beyond the mic.
Q101/WKQX-FM Chicago Inducted Into The Illinois Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Class of 2025
JOCKLINE, SEPTEMBER 16TH, 2025 – Cumulus Media's Q101/WKQX-FM, was inducted into the Illinois Rock & Roll Hall of Fame by the Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66 on Sunday, September 14, 2025. The induction ceremony was held at the historic Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet.
Q101 was inducted into the 2025 class of the Illinois Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in the Radio Station category, alongside the combined 2024 and 2025 Hall of Fame induction classes, which included 2025 inductees Head East and Enuff Z’Nuff in the Artist/Performer category; Tim Drummond, the late former bassist for Neil Young and Bob Dylan, in the Songwriter category; and others across multiple categories.
Marv Nyren, Regional Vice President/Market Manager, Cumulus Chicago, said: “I have had the honor of working with the teams and talent of Q101 for over 15 years and a brand that evolves with the times that continues to be the standard for Alternative music and personalities for Chicago. It’s as bright a future as we’ve seen in years with this group of people and James Kurdziel at the helm.”
James Kurdziel, Q101 Program Director and Vice President, Classic/Modern Rock, Cumulus Media, said: “We pride ourselves on being a part of and a reflection of our community. This honor validates that mission. We’re very proud of it and share the honor with all who have been a part of the Q101 story.”
Connoisseur Media Completes Acquisition Of Alpha Media; Rises To Top 10 Radio Group
THE MOUTH, SEPTEMBER 5TH, 2025 - Connoisseur Media announced the successful closing of its acquisition of Alpha Media, following FCC approval on August 13, 2025. With the addition of Alpha’s 205 stations to its portfolio of leading Connecticut and Long 
Island properties, Connoisseur now operates 216 stations across 47 markets, instantly vaulting the company into the top 10 U.S. radio broadcasters by both station count and revenue. The company also unveiled a new logo (shown right).
Connoisseur Media now represents a powerful nationwide local media platform reaching 20% of the U.S. radio audience. Notable new markets in the expanded footprint include San Antonio, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Jose, Palm Springs, and Louisville, alongside Connoisseur’s long-established heritage stations serving Fairfield and New Haven counties in Connecticut and Nassau and Suffolk counties in Long Island, New York.
“Local broadcasting has always been at the heart of what we do,” said Jeff Warshaw, CEO of Connoisseur Media. “Connoisseur started as a company rooted in radio serving local markets. Today we’re taking that same local-focused philosophy, which now includes our digital marketing and multi-platform expertise to some of the most dynamic markets in the country. This acquisition is about assembling the scale and resources to keep radio strong, serve our communities, empower our employees, and create even more value for advertisers.”
Jeff Warshaw, CEO of Connoisseur Media “As I have traveled the country to meet our new colleagues in the Alpha Media markets, I have been impressed with their dedication to radio and their communities.”
Edison: Video Content Is More Important Than Ever For Engaging With New Podcast Audiences
THE MOUTH, AUGUST 28TH, 2025 - It’s no secret that video podcasts have significantly disrupted the podcast industry. Data from Edison Research’s Infinite Dial™ and Edison Podcast Metrics™ show the importance of video content and platforms in engaging current and future listeners. Just last week, Edison Research’s Senior Director Gabriel Soto showcased yet more new data at Podcast Movement 2025 illustrating how essential video content and platforms are in engaging new audiences.
Soto’s presentation aimed to spark conversations about the future of podcasting by examining the habits of two groups: the newest podcast consumers, whom we called “First-Years,” who started listening within the last year; and those labeled “Longtimers,” those who have been listening to the medium for five or more years.
Using new data from Edison Podcast Metrics, we can compare podcast consumption among these two groups, looking at how many consume audio-only podcasts versus podcasts with video that is actively watched. n short, most new consumers and established podcast fans are actively watching while listening to video podcasts.
One key finding from Soto’s presentation is that video is even more important for engaging with new audiences. A higher percentage of First-Years actively watch while they listen to video podcasts compared to those who engage with audio only podcasts, 77% vs 75%. Long-timers continue to have an affinity for audio only podcasts, but this may change over time.
Podcasting remains an audio-first platform, with many describing podcasts as something you can listen to and understand with your eyes closed. At the same time, many creators and marketers are likely missing an audience acquisition and engagement opportunity by not considering how to fit video content and video platforms into their strategic planning.
Fred Jacobs Opens Up About Parkinson's Diagnosis
THE MOUTH, AUGUST 28TH, 2025 - In Wednesday's blog titled 'My Left Hand,' Fred Jacobs, radio's beloved consultant and radio futurist, penned "this one’s been coming for a while. And it’s not the kind of blog post you’ve been accustomed to reading. Today, I’m sharing news about me. And while a number of posts I write include some “real life” moments here and there, memories from my programming days or Jacobs Media stories over the decades, I tend to shy away from intensely personal news as that is not what JacoBLOG is all about nor is it in my comfort zone. However, today’s the exception. I’ve been walking around with a secret that actually isn’t all that mysterious to those I know and interact with. It’s health news, and I realize that on the surface, that sounds scary. But in my case, things are going quite well overall, and I feel compelled to share the news with you.
Jacobs reveals that "a couple years ago, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. You may not be that familiar with it (in fact, I wasn’t until I was told I have it). It’s become more common in recent years as a number of famous folks are in this “club,” including Ozzy Osbourne, Muhammed Ali, Alan Alda, Brett Favre, and Billy Graham. Perhaps the most publicized case is Michael J. Fox who tragically got his bad news at age 29. His version of Parkinson’s is quite a bit different than mine.
Jacobs first hint of a problem began in 2017 when he noticed a tremor in my left forefinger." "My physician sent me to a neurologist. He tested me, and concluded I didn’t have it—at least then. A few years later, the tremor became more noticeable, and again, I went to the same neurologist. This time around, my result was borderline. A few months later, he was more sure of my situation, declaring me a 70 year-old with Parkinson’s.
Jacobs shared that to the larger population in the industry, I’ve attempted to keep it quiet. Until now. It has taken a lot of effort and focus to keep that left hand under wraps and relatively calm. When I’m on stage, it’s often in my left pocket, mic in the right hand. (A lavalier mic is always a plus.) But I talk with my hands, so that left hand always seems to make an appearance especially when the adrenalin starts flowing. Trying to hide it has diverted my focus to the tremor and away from my speech, presentation, or meeting. And I’ve reached the conclusion that by telling you about it, neither of us will spend much time thinking about it. At least, that’s the goal.
The events that led me to making this decision were Morning Show Boot Camp a couple weeks ago, and the Public Media Content Conference happening right now in Salt Lake City. Read complete blog HERE.
Photo Courtesy of MEL ROSE @stuckwithmel for MSBC
Apple Teams With TuneIn To Offer Apple Music Radio Stations Outside Of Music app
THE MOUTH, AUGUST 28TH, 2025 - In what 9to5mac.com says appears to be a marketing effort for its subscription service, Apple has partnered with TuneIn to offer the free Apple Music radio stations outside of the Apple Music app for the first time. As first reported by the Wall Street Journal, starting this week, all six of the Apple live music radio stations will be made available to listen to on TuneIn. TuneIn reports more than 75 million monthly active users, spanning a variety of platforms and devices reports 9to5.
At launch in 2015, Apple Music premiered with the Beats 1 station, hosted by Zane Lowe and others. In 2020, the station was rebranded as Apple Music 1. Lowe still has a popular slot on the station to this today. Stations include Apple Music 1, Apple Music Hits, Apple Music Country, Apple Musica Uno, Apple Music Club, and Apple Music Chill. The latter three are new additions which launched last year.
Until this week, listeners needed to navigate to the Radio tab inside Apple Music to access these stations. The TuneIn partnership expands their reach. All six of these radio channels will now be streamed over the TuneIn platform, which encompasses smart speakers, mobile apps, the web and more.
Apple obviously hopes TuneIn listeners will enjoy the stations enough to want to convert into paying subscribers to access the complete Apple Music ecosystem. Apple Music’s algorithmically-driven stations remain subscriber exclusives.
RAB And MIW Announce Completion Of Its 17th Annual Leadership Program In Nashville
THE MOUTH, AUGUST 25TH, 2025 - RAB, in partnership with Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. (MIW) announced the successful completion of the 17th annual Rising Through the Ranks program. The program began with a virtual session on Tuesday, August 12, and continued with in-person sessions on August 19-21 courtesy of BMI at their Nashville headquarters.
2025 Graduates with Featured Speakers including Erica Farber, Kim Johnson, and Trisha Yearwood. A Continued support by industry partners Mr. Master of the classroom materials, including participants’ notebooks and Xperi’s sponsorship of the lunches helped enhance the program experience.
Over the last 17 years, we have seen over 465 broadcasters graduate from the program and propel their careers as well as their companies by the knowledge, growth and skills gained at Rising Through the Ranks,” said Mike Hulvey, president and chief executive officer, RAB. “It’s an honor for MIW to be part of this program every year,” added Sheila Kirby, MIW board president. “We congratulate this year’s graduates and cannot wait to see and support their successes throughout their careers.” See complete list of graduates HERE
Kristen Welker To Accept Award In Honor Of NBC’s 100th Anniversary At LABF 'Giants' Event
THE MOUTH, AUGUST 22ND, 2025 - The Library of American Broadcasting Foundation (LABF) 'Giants of Broadcasting' Event will take place on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Gotham Hall in New York. As the NBC network commemorates a century of innovation and storytelling, the LABF is honored to pay tribute to its enduring impact on television, culture, and journalism among this year’s celebrated Giants of Broadcasting. Accepting the award on behalf of the network will be Meet the Press moderator Kristen Welker. Meet the Press is the longest-running television program in U.S. history.
The 2025 Giants of Broadcasting Honorees include: David Muir, Anchor and Managing Editor, ABC World News Tonight with David Muir, and Co-Anchor of ABC’s 20/20 Lynn Beall, Visionary Strategist and Innovator, Retired Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Media Operations, TEGNA, Inc. Rick Dees, Legendary Radio Icon - John Feore Jr., Esteemed Communications Attorney and Trusted Advisor - Dick Ferguson, Distinguished Radio Executive and Retired Executive Vice President, Cox Radio Group- Gary Sandy, Acclaimed Stage, Screen, and Television Icon - Lesley Visser, Trailblazing Hall of Fame Sportscaster and First Woman Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame Additionally, CBS News White House Correspondent and former RTDNA Chairman Steven Portnoy will receive the 2025 LABF Excellence in Broadcast Preservation Award in recognition of his tireless efforts to safeguard and celebrate the history of broadcast journalism.
“For 100 years, NBC has been a pillar of American broadcasting,” said LABF Co-Chairs Heidi Raphael, Beasley Media Group Chief Communications Officer, and Jack Goodman, longtime D.C.- based communications attorney. “We are thrilled to recognize NBC’s 100th anniversary celebration during this year’s Giants of Broadcasting event and present the award on behalf of the network to Kristen Welker, moderator of Meet the Press, the longest-running program in network and broadcast history.”
For complete details about the honorees, sponsorship opportunities, tables and individual tickets, please contact Debbie Beagan-Carcich, 2025 Giants of Broadcasting event Producer at debbie@giantsofbroadcasting.org or go to www.tvradiolibrary.org.
Tracy Johnson: What Happens When You Get 52 Radio Pros In A Room And Discuss Real Problems
THE MOUTH, AUGUST 15TH, 2025 - In our latest MSBC 37 Recap, Tracy Johnson sheds light on our first-ever, experimental, limited-seat event that took place at 8:00 am last Friday in Austin. Despite it's size, it proved to be one of this year's most talked about session.
"Every August, Morning Show Boot Camp brings hundreds of passionate radio personalities together for panels, meet-ups, and more coffee than is probably healthy," says Johnson. "But this year, something different happened. Tucked away in a quiet room, without a stage, without a panel, and without a script, 52 broadcasters circled up for an experimental session called Duct Tape, Coffee, and Content." The idea was simple: no lectures, no ego, no “impress-the-room” flexing. Just a conversation among people who love this industry and are fighting every day to keep it alive. And it worked."
"MSBC's Don Anthony’s vision to innovate by creating a breakout workshop was wildly successful."We covered a lot of ground in a little over an hour (and another 30 in hallway conversations afterward), says Johnson, but the themes that emerged hit directly at the core of what it means to do radio in 2025. We talked about what it’s like to work without a team — or with a “team” that’s more like a mirage."
We heard from hosts who wear 15 hats and still manage to sound local, timely, and compelling every day. We shared frustrations about ego-driven personalities on cast-heavy shows with producers, writers and budgets. All things we want, and many we need. But in this environment, we don’t have them. And then we dug into how to actually do this thing better, even if it’s patched together with Duct Tape, Coffee, and Content.
Less Content, More Impact - One of the most resonant takeaways was the principle of Concentration of Force. It’s a military term, repurposed for broadcasters who are spread thin but still expected to make magic. Instead of packing your show with average breaks, we walked through how to build a single segment that acts as a “lightning rod feature” that hits so hard, it becomes your show’s your show’s equivalent of Carpool Karaoke. Your thing. Your brand. And maybe even your way out of the grind. We demonstrated how less content, done better, creates more connection, more memorability, and more freedom.
As Radio Content Pro’s digital spokesperson and resident radio expert Ava Hart put it: “You don’t need more content—you need the right 10% that slaps.” The energy shifted when we reframed it: It’s not about doing it all. It’s about doing the most important things better and letting the rest go. That’s not laziness. That’s survival.
Continue Reading HERE
Mike McVay Recaps MSBC 37's Radio Roundtable; 'Saw No One At 'Boot Camp Wave The White Flag'
THE MOUTH, AUGUST 14TH, 2025 - Mike McVay, President of McVay Media Consulting, once again led this year's Morning Show Bootcamp 37's Radio Roundtable titled 'Managing Success In The Age of Uncertainty.' While on a road trip, we caught up with McVay who offered a brief recap of this year's session. He tells Jockline, "The Radio Roundtable has become synonymous with me as moderator. It usually features panelists that are made up of a blend of company leadership in the content arena, programming influencers, futurists, and on-air performers. This year was no exception.
Joining McVay onstage was iHeart SVP/Programming Jill Strada, Audacy national personality Katie Neal, Programming Consultant and legend Jim Ryan, EVP Programming & Audience at Hubbard Radio Greg Strassell, and Audacy Chief Programming Officer Jeff Sottolano. The years of experience this group possess, the real life scenarios they’ve seen, and their impact on the industry as well as individuals in the room brought an attentive audience to the edge of their seats.
The discussion included radios need to overcome its’ inferiority complex, to understand the nature of the business as it sits today, and the necessity to be more than one dimensional in ones job or position. That included suggestions on doing a regular “ride along” with sellers, supporting sales by making appearances and embracing ad endorsements, as well as being open to multitasking on more than one media platform.
Jeff Sottolano emphasized that the economic crisis facing all of us in radio is having a great impact on the business, and changing the expectations that management has of talent. Jim Ryan added, "As we saw in the podcasting session, your cume is not listening to your show as much as you’ve thought. If you’re on the air 20 hours a week, you need to be on your audience’s mind when you’re not on the air through You Tube, podcasts and social media."
McVay shared that the session included topics that generated real discussion on the state of the industry, opportunities for talent, especially in an evolving (or devolving) business, where do talent fit into the industry, the role of syndication, creating talent value, and what’s the talent side hustle look like in the near and far away future. It concluded with a piece of takeaway information as to what’s on the horizon for radio. While positive, the view of the future brings a touch of apprehension, but I saw no one at Morning Show Bootcamp wave the white flag of surrender. Quite the opposite."
SNAPS: John Moug Gets His First Tattoo At MSBC
THE MOUTH, AUGUST 13TH, 2025 - As you may have heard, there were a lot of 'firsts' at MSBC 37 In Austin this year including our first-ever 'Tattoo Parlor.' Nearly 20 attendees signed up for an array of radio-themed art such as a microphone, portable radio, etc., but at least one person showed up for their first-ever tattoo.
John Moug, of Audacy's B96 Chicago's Moug & Karla Show, arrived at the parlor all smiles, but grimaced just a bit as he was penned with his first tat. He and others were easily spotted in the hallways with bandages over their new design. Based on feedback, you can look for the tattoo parlor to return to MSBC 38 in ..... (oops, coming soon) - Watch John's experience HERE
Photo at right courtesy of KARLA, photo at left from MEL ROSE @stuckwithmel
Fred Jacobs: 'The Spirit Of MSBC 37' Austin; Boot Camp Attendees Are 'A Glimpse Of What’s Next'
THE MOUTH, AUGUST 12TH, 2025 - Fred Jacobs writes in his blog 'The Spirit of MSBC', that it may seem hard to believe but one of radio’s longest running get-togethers is actually collection of on-air talent, mostly from commercial stations. They come from near and far, representing big companies as well as mom & pops, morning shows and syndicated programs, as well as talent working a myriad of dayparts, markets, and situations.
That’s the way radio has evolved in recent years. And as we’ve learned from our AQ studies of commercial radio talent over the past several years, today’s personalities wear an average of “3 hats.” Remarkably, about one-third don “4 hats” or more as part of their expanding job responsibilities as part of industry demands that require more than ever while often delivering less in return – compensation, time off, and emotional rewards.
But talent soldiers on, mostly with a big smile on their collective faces, still glad to be part of a business unlike any other. And at this year’s Boot Camp in Austin – #37 if you’re counting – they once again showed up in droves, braved the Texas heat in August, and enjoyed each other’ company, camaraderie, and generosity. That last point is key. This is a group that graciously shares their knowledge and experiences with the next generation of air talent. Now, if you’re cynically thinking, “Fred – there is no next generation of radio personalities,” I would suggest you think again. Because a look at Morning Show Boot Camp attendees is a glimpse of what’s next.
Most of those who make the trek to this event are young – to the point where guys like me feel our age – and are happy about that. A majority also pay their own way, so the value of Boot Camp is high – and so are the expectations for the conference itself. The thing about Boot Camp that sets it apart from other radio conferences – across radio platforms – is the unbridled passion and energy you feel everywhere – in the main presentation area, the sponsor exhibits area, in the restaurants and bars. It’s everywhere and it’s a defining difference.
Talent at this event are realistic and well-aware of the tense dynamic between their ilk and management – especially these days, when salaries and marketing resources have greatly dwindled, especially since the pandemic. But most seem undaunted by the shifting sands of radio, excited to try the next stunt they learned about in this year’s “Battle of the Bits,” a Boot Camp tradition that seems to grow with each passing year.
For corporate officers, consultants, talent coaches and others mostly on the periphery, this event makes you feel hopeful and inspired by what may be around the corner. In case you didn’t know, Morning Show Boot Camp is the brainchild of Talent Masters founder Don Anthony. He staked out this turf decades ago on the belief the radio business could only be successful with a commitment to on-air personalities. All these years later, and Boot Camp is a symbol of Don’s very prescient “all-in” bet on the power of talent. Yet, there are times when the commercial radio “powers that be” seem to struggle with the obvious. Read complete blog HERE
'Radio Is About Connection, Not Perfection' - PT.2 With Radio's Kramer & Jess In 'The Last Word'
THE MOUTH, JUNE 26TH, 2025 - Welcome to our latest edition of 'The Last Word' - today we share Part 2 of a 2-part look at Kramer & Jess of MIX 106.5. From college radio to stops in Savannah, Panama City, Tampa and Phoenix, Steve Kramer met with Jess Dutra in San Diego in 2015 and later joined as a team on MIX 106.5 in Baltimore. Now in their 10th year together, they continue with Pt. 2 of 'The Last Word' in Jockline:
AFTER ALL THESE YEARS IN RADIO (STEVE) I've learned there's always more to learn, and people to learn from. Let them help you. After you do this for a while, you get comfortable, which is good, but to get someone who is even better than you to be able to take you to the next level is priceless. We've been so lucky to have Jim Ryan work with our show recently, and he's been so pivotal in pointing out our blind spots, implementing new ideas, and motivating us, it's like rocket fuel. Find people who are better than you, and let them help you!
(JESS) You’ll try on a lot of voices (might even be forced into some) before you realize the best one was yours all along. I spent years thinking I had to sound a certain way, be what I thought people wanted to hear, but the biggest growth happened when I let go of all that and just showed up as me. Radio is about connection, not perfection.
WHAT I TELL YOUNG JOCKS WHO ASK ME ABOUT RADIO (STEVE) I actually just had a conversation with a girl graduating high school who was interning with us. She likes radio, but she also likes podcasting, graphic design, and social media and wasn't sure what to do. I told her GOOD! Go be good at all of that! I have a broadcasting degree which holds the same weight as DVD collection nowadays. Go be really good at as much content as you possibly can. Because radio is no longer just talking into a microphone.
(JESS) Fall in love with the grind, not just the thought of being on the radio. Radio isn’t just about having a good personality, it’s about showing up when no one’s watching, staying curious, building community, and being real. Don’t try to be the next someone else. The magic happens when you stop performing and start being you.
LISTENER FROM HELL EXPERIENCE (JESS) As radio hosts, we deal with rude DMs, texts, and comments all the time, it comes with the job. And 99.9% of the time I just ignore it. But there was one listener who went out of her way to bully me online. For months, she left nasty comments always aimed directly at me. One day, after she called me “immature” for wearing a Disneyland sweatshirt, I finally had enough. I looked at her Facebook page and saw posts about “kindness,” “Live Laugh Love” banners, and... WAIT FOR IT...her Christmas tree completely covered in Disney ornaments!!??!!
So I responded: “Hi there! I've noticed that you've been leaving very hurtful and nasty comments on our page for quite some time now, specifically geared toward me. I visited your profile and saw your ‘Live Laugh Love’ banner… but your attitude isn’t living, laughing, or very loving. Feel free to unfollow at any time—your negativity is unnecessary. And if you have that much of a problem with me, why waste your energy on someone you clearly don’t like? Save your energy, queen. Stay blessed!!”
And guess what? Haven’t heard from her since.
MY BIGGEST REGRET - (JESS) I don’t really believe in regrets. Something I often talk about on my podcast Life in Bloom with Jess is how I believe everything you go through (good or bad) is part of shaping who you’re meant to become. But if I had to name a hardship that taught me something worth passing along, it would be not advocating for myself sooner. There were times I stayed quiet when I should’ve spoken up, accepted less than I deserved, or waited for someone else to validate me. I’ve learned that no one will fight for you harder than you. Use your voice. Set your boundaries. You’re not being “difficult”. You’re being clear about your worth.
(STEVE) I spent more time developing Kramer than I did developing Stephen. For the last 20 something years, I have really busted my butt learning how to be my radio self, and I think I'm pretty good at it. I've had a ton of amazing mentors along the way (if you're reading this and wondering if I am talking about you, I am), that have been so generous to take me under their wing and teach me, and still to this day, I'm learning new ways to evolve with this business. I can tell you how to set up a morning show bit, a clock, plan segments, write teases, payoffs, sales calls, social media, you get it. But 5 years ago, if you asked me, "Ok, but who is Stephen?" I don't think I would even know where to begin to answer that question. And it was a really lonely place when I didn't know that answer. So for the purpose of answering this question, I'd say I regret having a better work/life balance earlier on in my career. But if you're reading this and feel like you also can't answer that question, I've also learned it's never too late to find the answer. And what I've found is the more I figure out who Stephen is, the better I become as Kramer.
WHAT I WORRY ABOUT MOST (STEVE) Our world. I am writing this the morning after the attack on Iran. My best friend since 4th grade is currently stationed in Syria, so as I sit here and talk radio with you, my thoughts and my heart and definitely on the other side of the world right now. I hope everyone you know and love is safe. We are living in crazy times for sure. Sending you a lot of love and may you be a comfort to your listeners who are going through these same feelings you are.
(JESS) Everyone tells you to “be different” and “just be yourself”, but then they hand you a script that sounds nothing like you, or ask you to play into a formula that hasn’t worked in a decade. I worry that we say we want authenticity in this industry, but we don’t actually give people the space to be it or accept them when they are. I’m tired of hearing, “the audience won’t get it”. People are weird. Get with it. I worry about the lack of female-led voices…REAL voices, especially women of color. We’re not just underrepresented, we’re often unheard and undervalued. I want to see more women not only on air, but at the table making decisions. What worries me the most isn’t whether radio can survive, it’s whether we’ll actually allow ourselves to evolve. And that starts by valuing who we put on air, what we’re saying, and why we’re saying it.
'Kidd Kraddick Taught Me The Importance Of Being Authentic; Kellie Rasberry Gets 'The Last Word' In Jockline
THE MOUTH, JUNE 6TH, 2025 - In this week's edition of 'The Last Word,' we connected with Kellie Rasberry, longtime co-host of the highly popular Kidd Kraddick Show. Kellie began her radio career in Florence, SC, first reporting local news and then hosting her own morning show. In 1994, she landed in Dallas as co-host of The Kidd Kraddick Morning Show, where she continues to this day. The show reaches 65+ markets and more than 2 million people each week.
As part of the Kraddick Show, Kellie has won a Gracie Award, the MIW/MSBC Airblazer Award, and is a member of the Texas Radio Hall of Fame. In addition to radio, Kellie has co-hosted various TV shows, including DishNation, and currently co-hosts two podcasts, 'Love Letters to Kellie' and 'A Sandwich and Some Lovin’. Adding to her accolades, she now gets 'The Last Word' in Jockline.
I FIRST GOT THE RADIO BUG when I was just a kid. I LOVED the radio. The American Top 40 with Casey Kasem is one of my earliest childhood memories. In the 80s, I would tape Rick Dees’ Weekly Top 40 and listen to it repeatedly throughout the week. At night, I’d lie in bed and turn the radio dial as slowly as possible along the AM dial, trying to pick up stations from as far away as possible. I remember being so excited to hear voices crackling out of Chicago, all the way from my bedroom in Florence, SC!
MY FIRST BIG BREAK came when I went to a talent convention, hoping I’d be signed by an agent who would help me become a sitcom actress. I ended up meeting the owner of a radio station who saw my monologue and thought I’d be great on the radio.
BEST RADIO SHOW IN THE HISTORY OF THE WORLD would be The Kidd Kraddick Morning Show! Nothing will ever match the magic Kidd created in the 90s and continued to create until his death in 2013. I got to where I am today with 90 percent of the credit going to Kidd Kraddick, who taught me the importance of being authentic despite the risks. The remaining 10 percent I give to me for being brave enough to follow his advice.
BEST INTERVIEWS EVER would include a long list, but the ones that immediately jump out for me are Jon Bon Jovi, Keanu Reeves, Kevin Costner, Mariah Carey, John Travolta.
HOW YOU ENDED A BAD INTERVIEW POLITELY …Gary Busey was having what I would describe as a manic episode and threatened to kick my a**. Kidd led all of us into our morning show office and we locked ourselves inside until Gary left.
BEING A WOMAN ON THE AIR is an honor! I get such a thrill hearing from young women in radio today who say I inspired them in some way. When I was just starting, I didn’t really have that many women to look to for inspiration, other than Ellen K, of course!
MY GREATEST FEAR is becoming irrelevant and forgotten.
'Radio Will Never Go Away,' Say's Charlotte's Maney As He Gets In 'The Last Word'
THE MOUTH, MAY 30TH, 2025 - In this week's edition of 'The Last Word,' we cornered Maney, host of 'The Maney and LauRen Show' 95.1 WNKS Charlotte. Maney's morning radio career kicked off in 1998 in Little Rock. This was followed by stints at KRQQ, Tucson, KDND, Sacramento, WHBQ Memphis, and now syndicated out of WNKS, Charlotte. Here below he shares a few thoughts and stories in 'The Last Word' with Jockline.
I FIRST GOT THE RADIO BUG growing up in Northern NJ, I was always listening to the radio. The NYC radio battles were legit in the 80's and 90's. Having Howard Stern, Imus, Scott Shannon, Jim Kerr, and Ross Britton on the dial! How could you not get the radio bug? MY FIRST SHOW started with weekend shifts in the Poconos at WSBG. There was no digital editing software when I started, my calls were on reel to reel in 1997 ahhhh!
MY BIG BREAK came when I was working at the research department at Z100. Lukas (his former co-host) was leaving the night show to go do mornings in Little Rock. He asked me to co-host and produce. I didn't hesitate.
AND THEN THE CONTEST - I really loved working for Steve Weed at KDND. I loved Sacramento. We worked hard to get ratings and put on a good show, I really matured as a 3rd mic there. Obviously all that changed in January of '07 (following the tragic Wee for a Wii contest). The sadness will never go away. So many people's lives were changed that day. I had to do right by the victim's family and was a witness for them at the trial - a lot of people don't know that. MY SECOND CHANCE Came from Chris Taylor at WHBQ in Memphis. He hired me a year and half after Sacramento. I jumped at the chance to get back on the air at a great station and to work with Kennedy. He took a chance on me and it worked out for everyone. It was a cut in pay (LOL) but I loved every minute in Memphis, I met my wife there and it's like my second home! WHY I NEVER QUIT - Like so many other talented people reading this... I feel compelled to entertain. We're built to wake people up and make them smile on their bad day. I had to get back on the air!
I'D SAY THE SINGLE GREATEST RADIO SHOW IN THE HISTORY OF RADIO is The Howard Stern Show. I interned for Howard in 95 or 96... I got to see how an amazing radio show was put together from within. I made it on the air for like 3 seconds one morning. MY RADIO HEROES would be The NYC crew! Jim Kerr (who I met at MSBC a few years ago), Howard obviously, Elvis Duran (Who I worked with briefly) Mike and the Mad Dog, and I love Mojo.
OH YEAH, THERE WAS THIS REMOTE when I was in Tucson at KRQ. An AE asked me to go to a construction site and host lunch for the crew. The workers had no idea who I was, and I didn't know what to say on the call ins. The girls from the company's office who set up the remote didn't even show up. I gave t-shirts to iron workers and plumbers!
WHAT I'VE LEARNED AFTER ALL THESE YEARS IN RADIO is there are NO guarantees...bring your 'A' game every time you turn on the mic, because you;re connecting with someone who needs you. WHAT I TELL YOUNG TALENT WHO ARE ON THE FENCE ABOUT RADIO - My co-host LauRen and I tell all the interns to learn as much as you can while you're with us. Radio will never go away - content is king! So you're more of a content creator than a broadcaster these days! Good luck!
WHAT STILL KEEPS ME AWAKE AT NIGHT is not knowing what tomorrow will bring...
Reach out to Maney HERE
THE LAST WORD With Kevin Rolston: 'My First Time On The Air Was Out Of Desperation'
THE MOUTH, MAY 23RD, 2025 - In our latest edition of 'The Last Word' we caught up WRMF's Kevin Rolston, co-host of the hugely popular KVJ Show in West Palm Beach. Kevin's radio career saw him go from Ohio University to Z100 New York City as a promotional intern. He left there to go to Mix 102.7 in Fresno and later followed Jon Zellner to Mix 93.3 in Kansas City. From there it was Wild 95.5 in West Palm Beach.
14-years later we wound up at a station in Miami. Rolston says, "Feeling they were uncomfortable with a controversial show, they let us go in just a few months saying there was no way we'd ever work in Miami. Ultimately, it played well for our non-compete. We actually wanted to go to WRMF anyway." Now many years later and much success back in WPB, Kevin gets 'The Last Word.
FIRST TIME I GOT THE RADIO BUG was when I did college radio at a station that only broadcast to one dorm via cable TV. Needless to say, we had zero listeners and that was a good thing. We did skits and were terrible for one hour a day. No real station would have put up with all the crap were were broadcasting, but I had so much fun I knew I wanted to do it more.
MY FIRST TIME ON THE AIR was out of desperation. All the full-time DJ's wanted to go to a Van Halen concert and I was the only one that could run the radio station. They had no choice but to put me on, if they were all gonna go. They didn't want me to talk, but it was conditional. So, they all hotlined me to critique all my breaks when they were drunk coming home from the concert. After all that, for some reason, I actually wanted to do it again.
MY BIG BREAK came when I drove cross-country for a morning show producer opening and beat out the only other candidate. The morning host had been a producer for Scott Shannon at Z100. He taught me everything he learned from working on The Z Morning Zoo. My PD was Jon Zellner and he was instrumental in teaching me radio done the right way. I couldn't have accidentally wound up in a better place to start.
FIRST TIME MEETING A BIG-TIME HOST WAS was Stereo Quad Suzy Wad out of 92X in Columbus. I grew up listening to her. Her Friday night show was magical. Sadly, when we met I had just DJ'ed a frat party at Ohio University and was massively hammered. What was worse is that I was taking over for her to be the post-prom DJ at ky old high school. When we met, I wasn't wearing a shirt.
THE SINGLE GREATEST RADIO SHOW IN THE HISTORY OF RADIO is Howard Stern in the 90's
SHOWS I STILL LISTEN TO would be The Bert Show, Dave Ryan, Mojo, Roula, Ryan & Eric, Jonjay & Rich, Woody, Elvis Duran, Brooke & Jeffrey
IF I HAD TO DO IT ALL OVER AGAIN I WOULD HAVE done a better job archiving audio, photos and video.
MY BIGGEST FEAR is being boring.
'Our Job On The Air Is To Create Community And Connection' Says Hits 96.1's Holly O'Connor
THE MOUTH, MAY 7TH, 2025 –– In our latest edition of 'The Last Word,' we shine the spotlight on Hits 96.1 Charlotte's Miguel & Holly (Miguel Fuller & Holly O'Connor shown above with Producer Kelbin). In the summer of 2008, they teamed with Steve Kramer (who now co-host on MIX 106.5 Baltimore on The Kramer & Jess Show) at WILN Island 106 in Panama City. They headed to Tampa in 2011 for CBS Radio's WSJT Play 98.7. Then Kramer went to Phoenix for KMEL Country. Holly and I went back to Panama City in 2013 with Mandy Williamson and worked there till 2015 when we went BACK to Tampa to work at CMG's WPOI HOT 101.5. Some 14-years later after landing in Panama, they landed in Charlotte with iHeart's Hits 96.1 in 2022. Today they get 'The Last Word' in Jockline.
OUR FIRST REAL BREAK CAME when Steve Kramer chose me out of other applicants to co-host the "That Guy" Kramer show in Panama City. -Holly - "When I joined Steve Kramer and Holly in Panama City, that’s when we all learned the power of building community through your four hour radio show. - Miguel
AFTER ALL THESE YEARS ON AIR I've learned that the mechanics of radio are always shifting and changing, sometimes even back and forth between two opposing ways of doing things. You can always learn a better way to operate. But our job on the radio is to create community and connection. - Holly - "Everyone wants to be a part of a community. We’ve been so fortunate to be able to create communities in a few different cities and people have continued to listen to us and be in our fam because they enjoy the community we’ve created and fostered." - Miguel
THE THING ABOUT SUCCESS is it's so fickle. You have to work hard, but a lot of hard working talented people are no longer in radio because of the nature of the business. Hard work + talent + networking + timing = success - Holly - 'Well, it's fleeting. You can’t let it get to your head. The days of reaching the top and coasting? Long gone. You have to constantly evolve, grow, and understand where your audience is going—because media moves fast. If you don’t keep up, your listeners will move on without you. - Miguel
THERE WAS THIS REMOTE back in Panama City, we used to do live broadcasts from Club La Vela (yes, that Club La Vela—MTV Spring Break vibes). The owner would bring in girls for me to put on the air, and they'd hang out in the studio. It was always super awkward because I just wanted to wrap up the broadcast and hit the gay club afterward! - Miguel - "When I first moved from Ohio to the Florida panhandle were awkward because these very southern people were skeptical of my "Yankee roots." I ended up slipping into a southern accent for years just to fit in on air and at events." - Holly
I MANAGE STRESS by going to therapy and to the gym! Also being fully present in the different aspects of my life away from the job. Once I pick my daughter up from school, I've stepped into my other full-time job as mom and I'm not checking emails or social media until she's in bed." - Holly"I manage stress by doing CrossFit, hopping on my Peloton, going for walks, cooking, or losing myself in some emotionally devastating, prestige TV drama. The sadder the better" - Miguel
IF I HAD TO DO IT ALL OVER AGAIN I would’ve spoken up more in the past. Over the years, Holly and I have worked with a lot of PDs. We've learned something valuable from each of them, and they’ve helped us grow. But there were times when someone new would come in, make a snap judgment about what we do and how we do it, without ever asking why. Because we work in a shrinking industry, I didn’t want to rock the boat or come off as “just talent” trying to push back. But what I’ve learned is that we’ve grown with our audience. Every show needs coaching, yes, but sometimes we forget that the people actually sitting in the studio day in and day out—talking to listeners on air and on social media—have a real bond with them. That perspective matters. - Miguel"I'd make my opinion more known. For years I thought I didn't know much about anything and kept silent, letting other people run discussions. Turns out, I have more knowledge and experience than I give myself credit for, and deserve to make my voice heard" - Holly
MY BIGGEST FEAR is not growing as a person. I’ve always said I never want to be one of those on-air talents stuck in the “we’ve always done it this way” mindset. But I get it now, doing things the same way feels comfortable and safe. That’s why I try to actively challenge myself to stay open, keep evolving, and not get too comfortable -Miguel - "Letting down the people who depend on me." - Holly..
WLAV-FM Grand Rapids Michelle McKormick Gets 'The Last Word,'
'The Industry Has Changed, But The Rules Have Not. It's Still Showbiz!'
THE MOUTH, APRIL 29TH, 2025 –– In our latest edition of 'The Last Word,' we shine the spotlight on Michigan's venerable Michelle McKormick. With the exception of five years where she crushed it in Detroit, she has worked most of her career waking up Grand Rapids Michigan.
In addition to her show, she also coaches talent and has been a Morning Show Boot Camp regular for over 30-years. In all, she's spent more than 40 years on air and currently spearheads the Michelle & Gregg With Travis Show on Classic Rock 97 WLAV in Grand Rapids. Now she gets The Last Word with Jockline.
IF I HAD TO DO IT ALL OVER AGAIN the one thing I'd do differently is not oversleeping for my most important job interview ever .. New York City with Elvis Duran (I was a child). Also I might have been braver EARLIER in my career.. both with the business and the show.
I WAS ALMOST NAMED 'MICHELLE MCQUIRE but I wanted something that would be easy to remember… My first name is Michelle and I got hired the same day as a lady named Mary Maguire… And I thought that would be an awesome name and she never ended up using McGuire, but I felt funny using her name so instead I was at my friend’s house and watched her get high and put McCormick spice on something and said how about Michelle McCormick.. I spelled it differently to stand out.
MY FIRST REAL BREAK CAME was really two big ones. One was when I applied to become the music director back in like 1984. There were only 11 female music directors in the country and I got the gig. I learned a lot from a guy named Matt Clenett who took a chance on me. The second big one was my all-time Radio mentor Jim Davis, who was Big Jim Edwards on CKLW in Detroit for years and years… Watched me at a local roast and decided I needed to be moved from nights to midday and then eventually to mornings I learned so much from him AND when I got a call from Detroit to work with Gregg Henson .. the PD drove over to listen to our show in Grand Rapids.
EVERYTHING I'VE LEARNED AFTER ALL THESE YEARS ON AIR is while the industry has changed immensely, the rules of Radio have not. It is still SHOWBIZ… Details still matter… And I’m still here to let everybody know each morning that the world is OK, or at least as well as it can be. That’s my job. I know it sounds cheesy, but I still believe I’m the friend you’d hang out with at the bar… every morning. Also, listeners will love you most when you show then that you are as effed up and as flawed as they are.
WHAT I TELL YOUNG JOCKS is work hard… Don’t say no too much… And content creation is content creation. Jim Davis told me, “most people in radio are lazy. You only have to work a little bit harder to get a lot back. “ so true
I'M A STICKLER FOR Comedy timing… Letting a joke just sit there… And not have to run up it or make a comment on it. It’s really hard to do, especially for me. The key to comedy is TRUST. Y ou have to put trust in your show cast .. and slow down and listen and react… But trust them enough to get the job done and they have to trust you enough to get the job done. I’ve worked with people who trust me implicitly and I’ve worked with people who don’t… the shows are way funnier when you trust and respect your partner.
DID I MENTION THIS REMOTE where a girl showed up and had stomach cramps. We finally called an ambulance .. SHE GAVE BIRTH right there without even knowing she was PREGNANT! (I wish I was lying)
MY BIGGEST FEAR Is losing the opportunity to be on the air.. I’m an old school radio person and I just don’t want it to end.
Reach out to Michelle at mhmckormick@gmail.com
Eric Rowe: 'The Human Moments Made Audience Feel Closer To The Show' During The Pandemic
THE MOUTH, APRIL 28TH, 2025 –– Despite numerous distruptions and discomforts in the workplace during the Pandemic, for on-air talent the experience brought about some unexpected, yet beneficial changes in the basic tenets of show management. Eric Rowe, co-host of the KRBE-FM Houston's 'Roula & Ryan With Eric Show, writes in a piece titled: 'Why our show got stronger after the Pandemic', "We were one of those shows that weren't allowed to be in the studio for 19 months, so it was a different experience for us. I will say a lot of shows might feel the same way about how my thinking and attitude changed following this period. Here are some of the things that changed for us:
Stronger Team Chemistry & Appreciation for In-Studio Energy - You don’t take in-person energy for granted anymore. There’s a special magic in body language, facial reactions, and real-time banter that doesn’t translate over Zoom. You’ve learned how much you feed off each other’s energy. Even a slight laugh, eye roll, or hand gesture can completely change the rhythm of a break. Reuniting made everyone tighter as a team. After 19 months apart, being back in the same room feels like a creative reunion every day.
Sharper Communication & Trust Behind the Scenes - Remote broadcasting forced you to communicate better. You couldn’t rely on non-verbal cues or hallway chats — you had to spell everything out. You developed new systems for prep and segment flow. Whether it was shared docs, Slack, or show rundowns, those systems are still helping your show run smoother today. Trust was everything. Everyone had to be on top of their game, self-motivated, and clear on their role without being micromanaged.
More Listener Connection & Transparency - Listeners heard the “real” side of you more. Whether it was a dog barking or kids popping in, the human moments made the audience feel closer to the show. You could open up in new ways. There was more room for vulnerability, serious conversations, and mental health awareness — all things listeners valued. The pandemic gave everyone a shared experience. You weren’t just entertainers — you were companions during uncertainty.
Tech-Savviness and Flexibility - We became more tech-savvy as a team. Everyone learned to record from home, troubleshoot issues, and use platforms like Zoom, Cleanfeed, or SourceConnect. Now you have backup plans. If someone can’t make it to the studio — illness, weather, emergencies — you know how to pivot remotely. Remote guests and call-ins became easier. You learned how to better integrate outside voices into the show with clean audio.
More Thoughtful Content Planning - You became better planners. Remote work required tighter segment structure and clearer communication — now you apply that discipline even in-studio. You had to be more intentional with bits. When you weren’t vibing in person, you had to make sure the content stood strong on its own — no fluff. You listened more. Without visual distractions, you relied more on listening, and that sharpened your ability to react and build off each other.
Finally, New Segment & Social Content Ideas Were Born - Zoom fatigue led to creative reinvention. You explored new games, confession-style segments, listener-generated bits, and repackaged content for social. Remote shows taught you to “paint the picture” better. You learned to describe things more vividly and intentionally since there were no visual cues.
MIX 104.1's Karson & Kennedy Get 'The Last Word'
THE MOUTH, APRIL 15TH, 2025 - In this week's edition of 'The Last Word' we cast the spotlight on Karson & Kennedy, hosts of 'The Karson & Kennedy Show' on Audacy's MIX 104.1/WWBX Boston. Prior to Boston, they worked at Q98 WQSM Fayetteville NC, Hot 104.9 WHTF Tallahassee FL, Q107.5 WHBQ FM Memphis TN and finally at Mix 104.1 WWBX Boston, MA. Kennedy worked for a brief time at 96.1 KLPX Tucson AZ & Karson spent time at 104.3 WZYP Huntsville, AL. and 105.3 The Zone Dothan AL. In January of this year, they celebrated their 22nd anniversary on-air after meeting outside of radio 26 years ago! Now they get the last word.
FIRST TIME I GOT THE RADIO BUG...(Karson)I used to have a spiral notebook as a kid and I would write down the chart positions of every song on Casey Kasem's weekly countdown show. I moved a LOT as a kid so the radio personalities were familiar voices in my strange new places. (Kennedy) I didn’t. Karson made me do it. Seriously.
MY BIG BREAK - Karson: I'm still waiting for it… (Kennedy) Again, it was Karson. He brought me in to the studios at 2am to get tape to give to his boss. And that’s how I got my first job
FIRST TIME I WAS RECOGNIZED IN PUBLIC…(Kennedy) I don’t remember to be honest. But I will say every time someone comes up to me at the grocery store or Target it’s still a great feeling. Karson: I don't recall the first but I recall the most recent. This past Saturday my wife was on the phone with FedEx and the woman on the other end recognized HER voice from our show. Lana (Karson's wife) is way more famous than me.
FIRST BIGTIME RADIO HOST I MET –(Karson) Glenn Beck at Morning Show Boot Camp. (Thanks Don) I remember he was kind and polite and had on the most expensive looking shoes I had ever seen! Meeting John Garabedian at Boot Camp last year was also a wonderful memory. (Kennedy) When I saw Corey Foley at my very first Morning Show Boot Camp I sat in awe at the panel she was on. She had just shaved her head to raise $25K for breast cancer research. Everyone in the room wanted to talk to her and she was just 10 feet tall. Not sure I had the guts to say hi to her that day, but I was forever changed.
THERE WAS THIS ONE REMOTE – (Kennedy) We used to have a group of folks who put together a spreadsheet of all the remotes from all the stations in the market. They’d show up together and take all the stuff. I can’t hide my feelings well on my face, so needless to say I was asked not to be at the table when they came by. (Karson)A car dealership in Memphis TN in 2005 and we were being mobbed by a large crowd for some concert tickets. Kennedy had a full-blown panic attack and I helped escort her to a safe space. It took years for her to open up about her mental health but she has become such a vocal advocate for herself and others.
LISTENER FROM HELL –(Karson) Her name is Lisa W. and she has been posting hate messages about us and our show since day 1 in Boston in 2009 and still listens EVERY day. Go figure.
LISTENERS LOVE YOU MOST WHEN (Kennedy) You’re real. When you show them you’re no different and you share the same problems, that you can have a bad day too, but you can also celebrate the good days together.
THEY HATE YOU MOST WHEN (Karson) We get some small detail about a 'Can't Beat Kennedy' question incorrect. We are NOT Jeopardy. We do not have a team of people to fact check our questions, it's me and Producer Dan. Mostly Dan.(Kennedy) when you are not authentic. They can smell a lie like a fart in a car. Don’t do it.
ONE HOUR ALONE WITH ANYONE ON THE PLANET – Kennedy: I grew up in the Chicago burbs so for me, Larry Lujack, and Little Tommy on WLS with their Animal Stories still make me cry laughing. And Jonathan Brandmeier on the Loop made me feel like I was listening to something I wasn’t supposed to.
THE SINGLE GREATEST RADIO SHOW IN THE HISTORY OF RADIO (Karson) Howard Stern changed the game but so many influenced me, like MJ & BJ in Tampa. Phil Hendrie in his WIOD days, Bob & Madison and Kidd Kraddick.
I END HORRIBLE INTERVIEWS POLITELY BY SAYING -(Kennedy) Well, they usually hang up first, (Karson) What? Where am I?
WHAT I TELL YOUNG JOCKS (Karson) there is a lot of meat left on this bone. Go get it, move, do every job and do not be afraid to open up on the air as it will create a bond with your audience that can't be replicated. (Kennedy) Know your worth. Learn everything you can. Always say yes when given an opportunity. And I am ALWAYS here to help.
AFTER ALL THESE YEARS IN RADIO (Kennedy) the only thing that differentiates us is US. Anyone can pipe in a show from somewhere else. It will NEVER cut through the way live and local does. Get out in the community. Meet the people who support you.(Karson) I have learned that being in a 25-year on air relationship with my wife and Kennedy is the best, craziest, fun, most stressful, demanding, do-not-recommend and rewarding adventure I will ever have in my life. I am grateful these two women have let me ride their coattails for so long.
WHAT I WORRY ABOUT MOST (Karson) Is if the Celtics go BACK2BACK!
WHEN I'M PRESIDENT OVER ALL OF RADIO – Karson: I will repeal the Telecommunications Act of 1996! (Kennedy) That is a job I would NEVER want.
WRVW-FM Ricki Sanchez Gets 'The Last Word' 'Being A Woman On The Air Is My Super Power'
THE MOUTH, APRIL 15TH, 2025 - In our latest edition of 'The Last Word' we cast the spotlight on Ricki Sanchez, host and chaos coordinator of 'Ricki, Zac & Manno In The Morning' on iHeart's 107.5 The River/WRVW-FM Nashville. Her résumé includes a whole lot of "fake it 'til you make it" moments, she has a background in radio, podcasting, and creating digital content that focuses on building connections through honest and amusing conversations. When she’s not on air, she’s probably petting someone else’s dog, avoiding adulthood, or making yet another glass of pinot noir disappear. Now Ricki gets the 'Last Word' with Jockline's Don Anthony.
I FIRST GOT THE RADIO BUG when I was in college. I had transferred for the Spring semester so I was looking for activities to make friends. My RA was the president of the radio station and during orientation, she said she was looking for a few more people to fill spots on-air. She gave me an hour on our online radio station (WPUB). My show was called "Expand Your Horizons” and I broadcast from a broken down, tiny ass studio. I played songs from multiple different genres and chatted about lifestyle-type stories. I don’t have any audio from it, but I wish I did so I could cringe in horror. I made ZERO friends from my experience, but I was hooked on radio.
I WAS CRAZY NERVOUS the day I heard Elvis Duran say, "I overheard Intern Ricki..." I basically blacked out at that moment. Carla Marie, who was the phone producer at the time, said, "Get up, get in there!" my cafeteria credits for Starbucks anymore and that waking up early on a Friday sounded like a nightmare. Talk about a RUSH. I was nervous, excited, shocked... everything and then some. Luckily, I kept it together enough for him to have me on a few more times as an intern. Each time I was on-air, I rode that nervous high for days.
WHAT IT TOOK to get where I am now was a lot of failure and doing things I didn't want to do. I had a lot of jobs that I didn't love before I got the one that makes waking up easy. I failed so many times to get the on-air gig that I wanted to give up more than once (or even twice... or even three times). It took the willingness to keep going, despite the struggles. Still does.
WHAT I'VE LEARNED ABOUT RADIO is the true impact it can have. I’ve learned that there’s nothing like listening and connecting to a live and local show. We have listeners who have sent us some of the most amazing messages about the impacts we’ve made and it blows me away every single time. From giving away tickets to a family who can’t afford live shows and hearing their pure joy/the sound of them holding back tears to helping someone live on the air as she explained she was suicidal the night before. (Her and I still DM from time to time to check in and she’s doing great right now.) Radio touches people in a way nothing else can. It’s special.
BEING A WOMAN ON THE AIR is my super power. Ricki, Zac & Manno in the Morning does exceptionally well in all female demos and I believe it’s partially because women want to hear women on the radio. They want to hear them as the driving force. I’m watching, listening, wearing, and talking about the same things these women who listen are. I’m their friend and every morning we laugh, cry, and chat about life as equals.
TAKING OVER MORNINGS is all I've ever wanted. Hearing a "Ricki, Zac & Manno in the Morning" promo still blows my mind and it's been that way for a year and a half. There are days I don't even feel like it's real. I still feel like I have so much to prove, but this is a massive step in the right direction and I’m happy as hell to be here (except when I’m told I can’t do any of the cool ideas I have cause of the “budget” *rolls eyes*).
THE TRICK TO KICKING OFF A NEW SHOW is to tune out the noise! You have SO many people who want to share their opinions with you about what you should and shouldn't do. It can get very overwhelming, very quickly. Learning to listen to all the thoughts people have about you and your show without dwelling on them is a skill. It took me months to develop that skill and I'm better for it now. I can smile and nod with the best of them now!
OTHER SHOWS I LISTEN TO when I can, I'll listen to The Breakfast Club, Elvis Duran & The Morning Show, Intern John & Your Morning Show, and The Joe Show.
THE THING ABOUT NASHVILLE... is it's not all about country music. We're Music City... meaning we love allllllll kinds of music here. Sure, there's plenty of country history here and a whole lot of it being played on Broadway, but if you live here you know that there's so much more out there to be heard.
WHAT I TELL YOUNG JOCKS WHO ARE ON THE FENCE ABOUT STAYING IN RADIO is to get out if you don’t absolutely love it. This industry isn’t the easiest to get by in and it can really tear you apart. If you don’t love this *insert curse word here* then you’re going to resent the path you took later on in life. If you decide to stay… thank you. We need you. You’re more important than you know.
ALT 98.7 LA's Woody Shares His 'Greatest Fear' And More In Our Latest Edition of 'The Last Word'
THE MOUTH, APRIL 7TH, 2025 - In our latest edition of 'The Last Word' we take a closer look at Woody Fife, eponymous host of The Woody Show on iHeartMedia’s ALT 98.7/KYSR Los Angeles and heard across numerous stations nationally via Premiere Networks. He's joined on the show by Gina Grad, Greg Gory , Menace, and Sebas. The Woody Show premiered on ALT in April of 2014. A week from Monday (4/22) will be the 11th Anniversary of their first show in LA. Now Woody shares 'The Last Word' with Don Anthony.
I WAS ALMOST NAMED Jeff Stevens at my first station. My middle name is Steven. Then I got hired and the PD had a hard-on for naming me JJ Rice. Despite that name already being taken by someone in NY somewhere, he loved it. I am Jeff Fife Jr.…..Jeff Jr. to him became JJ and he tacked on the Rice. Never understood that one…..but I rolled with it to get the job. Woody came about when I got hired at a station in 1995…..it was 104.7 The Revolution. It was the coolest radio station I had ever heard and I WAS DYING to work there. I got a call from the PD to come down and talk about a part-time job. He told me he would put me on the air that night, but that I needed a new name. He hated JJ (my previous station) and he thought nobody would know or remember Jeff. I told him that I didn’t care WHAT the name was, I just wanted to work there. As I said that, a commercial came on the TV in his office for a new movie coming out that week called “Money Train” with Wesley Snipes and WOODY Harrelson. At the end of the trailer, the names WESLEY and WOODY are flashed across the screen…..he says “how about Woody?” I said FINE, whatever, am I hired? (see trailer HERE)
MY BIGGEST CAREER MOMENT came when I went to tour a radio station in Bend Oregon. I was doing a “what do you want to be when you grow up” kind of assignment for the boarding school I was sent to. You’ve seen/heard a lot about these kinds of schools recently in the news and in documentaries thanks to Paris Hilton. Anyway…..I took the tour, they recognized how much I already knew (from years of calling and harassing the DJs at the radio station back at home) and asked me if I wanted an internship. That quickly led to board-oping and being allowed to do live breaks. My other big break was a couple of years later when I was calling and tricked David Edgar into airing a number of callers (who were all me just doing characters in different voices) on B94 in Pittsburgh. Once I told him what was going on and he heard I was still in High School, he offered me an internship at the station.
I HATE WHEN HOSTS SAY 'coming up in 7 mins I’ll tell you what (celebrity name here) said about (whatever it is).” That’s a useless break. Shittiest tease ever. You told me enough that anyone who is interested can just google it and get the story immediately. It’s like giving someone all but the last digit of your social security number. You gave it all away.
LISTENERS LOVE YOU MOST WHEN you are vulnerable. When you get butterflies in your stomach when you’re considering if you’re gonna share something or not…..DO IT. That ends up being the best stuff. It connects with the most people. Be a REAL person…..flaws and all. Too many out there trying to pretend that they’re a “mover and shaker” a VIP…..connected…..a celebrity. Calm down, this is radio. You’re not that cool.
BEST RADIO SHOW IN THE HISTORY OF THE WORLD is Howard Stern back when he was on terrestrial radio. Opie and Anthony right up until they got fired for the St. Pats thing. Both of those shows had great content and developed audiences that would run through walls for them.
AFTER ALL THESE YEARS ON AIR I've learned it’s the same no matter where you are. Radio is radio. The job is exactly the same no matter where you are. The city you’re in might be a bigger or smaller. You might have an extra zero in your paycheck (or not), but the rest is the same. There is no more or less bullshit in bigger markets than the smaller ones. The most important part is finding a place where you’re happy doing that same job.
I TELL YOUNG JOCKS if they want to be a music DJ, I will discourage it. Those jobs are going away fast. For the rest of us, we are in the content business. That’s where the market is. Don’t get caught up on the delivery method. Work on developing your craft and NETWORK LIKE CRAZY. Make it your business to get to know anyone whose work you respect.
MY GREATEST FEAR is going to jail for something that you really didn't do.....but for whatever reason you have no alibi, no evidence to show you DIDN'T do it. I also fear opening emails to see that we have to do yet another iHeart employee training video.
WNOR'S Rick Rumble Gets 'The Last Word'
There was this one remote where I was making stage announcements and being pelted with change, bottle caps, batteries..'
THE MOUTH, MARCH 31ST, 2025 - Welcome to 'The Last Word' — where we pull back the curtain and get a closer look at some of radio’s biggest stars, diving into their deepest thoughts, personal stories, and maybe even enduring our nosy questions. In a world flooded by TikTok chaos and endless scrolling, 'The Last Word' is your oasis of personal insight, fun facts and more.
Today, Rick Rumble gets the last word. Rick is host of 'Rumble in the Morning' featuring Rod Fitzwell, Sean Hood, Rina Rizzo and Mike Alexander, now in his 30th year at WNOR/FM in Hampton Roads, Virginia. A career that started in 1984 has seen Rumble cross the country twice, 9 stations, 7 states, 2 firings, 1 stolen tower, and a "I don't have any money to pay you this week'. He has helped to raise millions of dollars for charity, just last weekend hosting the For Kids Art Auction which took in $1.5 million dollars for homeless kids and families. Rumble's wife Mary is a successful realtor who keeps him around for laughs and handyman projects."
MY FIRST TIME ON THE RADIO was for vacation fill-in on an AM oldies station. I was called Dash Granite… borrowed from the Flintstones. MY FIRST REAL GIG was at WLAV Grand Rapids where the studio then was a small narrow box inside of a well-known downtown office building; Painted cinder blocks with carpet on the walls. Like a survival bunker for hippies. I sat behind the host, Kevin Matthews, (I was the news guy and hosted Saturday morning solo) and he looked at me in a mirror, like he was driving a car. We had rotary pots, couple of turntables. Albums were kept on the back wall. Just don't grab the Moody Blues, that's where the overnight guy would stash his weed. Matthews was gave me my first real break. He invited me to hang out at his radio show. That’s how I got started. THERE WAS THIS ONE REMOTE where we hosted a free concert in a downtown park with the band Candlebox, at the height of their popularity. Our contribution to the City's Free Friday concerts. It was estimated that nearly 40,000 people showed up, abandoned their cars in the street, and got very rowdy, effectively shutting down that part of the city. 2 people left in an ambulance. One was a guy who tried to climb the stage rigging and fell, the other was hit in the head with a 55 gallon drum that the crowd was throwing around like a beach ball. I was making stage announcements and being pelted with change, bottle caps, batteries, etc. The police showed up and literally pulled the plug, cutting power to the show, and sent the near-riot crowd home. The aerial pics in the paper the next day were stunning. We were invited not to return. YES, I HAVE A STASH OF OLD AIRCHECKS In a box in the attic. Don’t have anywhere or any reason to play them, but I can’t let go. I'M A STICKLER FOR Planning/Prep. Plan for every break. You can change the plan as the show goes to accommodate spontenaiety, but your show will never be worse than the original plan. There are no ”bad days”. LISTENERS LOVE YOU MOST WHEN we make fun of ourselves. THEY HATE YOU MOST WHEN we do “best of” for the holidays. BEST INTERVIEWS EVER – Musicians: Paul Stanley and Charlie Daniels. Comedian DL Hugley once explained that he worked at McDonalds as a kid, but never made a hamburger. We sent him to the McDonald’s down the street from the station on the phone with us, they knew who he was, but still wouldn’t let him make a hamburger. Hysterical. I END HORRIBLE INTERVIEWS POLITELY BY SAYING, ”We know you’re on a tight schedule, so thanks for being on the show today” . Right after the phrase “tight schedule” I hang up and give them no chance to reply, while I finish the sentence. WHAT I TELL YOUNG JOCKS WHO ARE ON THE FENCE ABOUT STAYING IN RADIO ....I tell them this can still be an amazing business, albeit narrower than it used to be. But you have to be honest with yourself. Do you have what it takes to be entertaining? What do you bring besides introducing the next song? We’re overstaffed on “announcers”. WHEN I'M PRESIDENT OVER ALL OF RADIO I will remind everyone that 82% of Americans listen to radio every week (Pew Research)…FOR FREE. It is still the greatest communication/advertising medium going. DID YOU USE AI TO ANSWER ANY OF THESE QUESTIONS? No, wish I had seen this question first…damn!
iHeartMedia Ashland/Mansfield Partners With Buckeye Thrift And Mechanics Bank For The Annual Sami’s Toys For Kids Drive
Benefiting Children Across Richland County
October 29, 2025 (Mansfield, OH) – iHeartMedia Ashland/Mansfield radio stations, including 101.3WNCO, Y-105, my100.1, 107.7 The Breeze, 102.3 The Fox, NewsRadio 98.3 WMAN and Fox Sports 1340AM in partnership with Mechanics Bank, are once again proud to sponsor a campaign that was created by the late Sam Ramirez, to help provide the children of our community with toys for Christmas. From Saturday, November 1 through the end of the month listeners will be asked to donate new toys and monetary donations at all Richland County Mechanics Bank locations.
“The generosity and support of this community is also its greatest strength! We ask and our community answers the call, because no one wants to see a child go without. As a strong and reliable voice for our community, iHeartRadio will once again lean on our community partners at Buckeye Thrift and Mechanics Bank, to make this Christmas magical for hundreds of children throughout Mid-Ohio,” said Chris Kelly, Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia Ashland/Mansfield.
Dee Campbell, organizer of Sami’s Toys for Kids and sister of Sam Ramirez, said “We are so grateful to the community and the volunteers, family and friends of Buckeye Thrift Store. Their time and efforts make this possible. It is humbling to be able to help local families make Christmas brighter for their children. This is Sami’s legacy, and we are honored to keep his giving spirit alive.
“Each year, our community shows up in the most generous of ways to brighten the holiday for children and families in our local area. Together, we can keep the spirit of giving alive and make this season special for children and families in need. New and gently used toys can be conveniently dropped off at any Mechanics Bank location,” commented Kristi Lord, Chief Marketing Officer at Mechanics Bank.
Zeno Media Unveils HLS for Podcasting
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 3RD, 2025 – Zeno Media, the global streaming and podcast infrastructure company, today announced the rollout of HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) across its platform, bringing faster starts, smoother playback, and enhanced monetization and measurement tools to publishers worldwide. The deployment is now live, with several broadcasters already leveraging the upgrade to deliver higher-quality podcast and streaming experiences across their websites and apps.
Unlike traditional progressive downloads, HLS delivers podcasts as small, time-sliced segments. This modern approach improves start times, adapts audio quality to each listener’s connection (adaptive bitrate), reduces buffering on congested or low-bandwidth networks, and enables more flexible ad delivery and deeper analytics.
“Our mission is simple: make every play start fast and finish strong; on any device, any network,” said Cristian Onet, CTO, Zeno Media. “With HLS, we can adapt in real time to changing bandwidth, reduce stalling, and support modern ad formats, all while giving publishers segment-level telemetry they can trust.
Zeno’s HLS support is available now, with video streaming capabilities coming in Q1 for partners and publishers on the Zeno platform. For platform access or a technical overview, contact: cristian.onet@zenomedia.com.
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AUDACY PARTNERS WITH TWO-TIME SUPER BOWL CHAMPION VON MILLER FOR “FREE RANGE” PODCAST Step Inside the Mind of NFL Legend & Super Bowl MVP Von Miller as He Goes “Free Range” on Weekly Show, Breaking Down the Biggest Stories From the Gridiron to What’s Driving the Cultural Conversation FreeRange-16x9-V2.jpg PHILADELPHIA, PA – November 3, 2025 – Audacy today announced that it has partnered with two-time Super Bowl champion, Super Bowl MVP, and legendary NFL linebacker Von Miller for “Free Range,” a weekly podcast where he will break down the biggest stories from the gridiron to what’s driving the cultural conversation. “Free Range with Von Miller” will launch on November 5, 2025, on YouTube and everywhere podcasts are available. New episodes will be released weekly on Wednesdays. Follow and listen to the show here and watch the video trailer here. Each week on “Free Range,” Miller will break down the biggest football stories, dive into the world of sports and entertainment, and chop it up with athletes, artists, and trendsetters shaping the conversation. Equal parts football IQ, locker room energy, and cultural curiosity, “Free Range” is where game meets culture, and no topic is off-limits. Miller will also share inside nuggets about his beloved chicken farm, Greener Pastures. Regular segments on “Free Range” will include “Commandments,” on which Miller will break down the most recent Commanders game and offer insights into the team; “Von’s Vision,” on which he’ll reflect on other games from around the league; “Free Range Conversation,” featuring interviews with athletes, coaches, media personnel, musicians, influencers, and entrepreneurs; “Culture Corner,” on which he’ll explore the biggest non-sports stories catching his attention that week. “‘Free Range’ is exactly what it sounds like — no fences, no limits. We’ll go deep on the game, but we’ll also talk about life, culture, and what drives people to be great,” said Von Miller. “I’m excited to partner with Audacy to bring this show to life, connect with fans, and create something that both listeners and brand partners will want to be part of.” “Von Miller’s larger-than-life personality and effortless charm have made him one of the most beloved figures in football. He exudes equal parts confidence, charisma, and competitive fire, and we can’t wait to see what he does on ‘Free Range,” said Leah Reis-Dennis, Head of Podcasts, Audacy. “As Audacy continues to cement our leadership position in sports audio, we’re thrilled to welcome Von to the family and to have this incredible offering covering football and so much more for listeners and advertisers.” Miller is a weekly guest on Audacy’s “The Sports Junkies” on 106.7 The Fan (WJFK) and The Team 980 (WTEM-AM) in Washington, D.C, appearing every Tuesday to talk Commanders. Download the cover art for “Free Range with Von Miller” here. Legendary NFL linebacker Von Miller is known for his exceptional college career at Texas A&M and being the second overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. He went on to have a highly decorated NFL career, winning two Super Bowls, being named Super Bowl MVP in 2016, and Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2011. A dominant pass rusher, Miller was inducted into the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team. He later joined the Buffalo Bills and currently plays for the Washington Commanders.
COLORADO NATIVE TAKES THE GRAND OLE OPRY STAGE FOR THE SECOND TIME Denver – November 3, 2025 – This year marks the centennial anniversary of the Grand Ole Opry – the longest-running radio show in the world and one of the most important radio programs in broadcasting history with Grand Ole Opry – Opry 100 celebrations all year long. Radio hosts from all around the country have been asked to be a guest announcer at the celebration and Colorado Native and 98.5 KYGO afternoon host, Shawn Patrick, is among the distinguished hosts. “To me, being invited is the biggest honor you can have in country music, as it is the most legendary stage in our genre,” shared Shawn Patrick. “And to have had this opportunity not only once but twice now, I am completely humbled and grateful.” Patrick’s Grand Ole Opry debut was on April 22, 2023, to celebrate the debut of Wyoming-based country singer, Chancey Williams, on the Opry stage. Born and raised in Greeley, Colorado, Shawn Patrick certainly has ties not only to Northern Colorado, but Wyoming as well. “My first ever concert was Garth Brooks at Cheyenne Frontier Days, so I have always felt a connection to Wyoming and the platform it gives to country music artists,” remembered Shawn “to be the one to introduce Chancey on his debut at the Opry was a full circle moment.” Now just over two years later Shawn Patrick will head to Nashville in early November and make his return to the Opry stage on November 7th. “The opportunity to present at Opry 100 has given me the chance to put my own unique twist on my appearance and also gives me the chance to possibly remember an appearance after blacking out due to nerves the first time,” joked Shawn. Fans can watch from the comfort of their home on the Grand Ole Opry app or tune into The Shawn Patrick Show weekdays from 2p – 7p on 98.5 KYGO to hear his stories from the show that made country music famous
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Audacy Announces Multiplatform Broadcast Extension With Wichita State Athletics
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 6TH, 2025 – Audacy announces a multi-year extension of its broadcast partnership with Wichita State Athletics. The flagship station, 103.7 KEYN (KEYN-FM), will air all men's basketball games and select women's basketball games, including postseason play. All baseball games, including the postseason, will be exclusively broadcast on KFH Radio (97.5 FM /1240 AM). Audacy will also produce and distribute weekly coaches' podcasts for multiple sports during their seasons.
“We are proud to continue our 50-plus-year tradition as the radio home of Shocker sports,” said Tommy Castor, Senior Vice President and Market Manager, Audacy Wichita. “Our partnership with Wichita State Athletics reflects a deep commitment to the community and to connecting with generations of fans. We’re excited to provide Shocker fans the best play-by-play coverage and exclusive updates that bring every game to life.” “
This partnership expands how Shocker fans connect with our programs. By bringing game broadcasts and coaches’ conversations to more platforms, we’re creating new ways for our community to experience Shocker Athletics all year long,” said Madison Stein-Mason, Deputy AD for External Affairs & Revenue Generation, Wichita State Athletics.
Harold 'Lefty' Williams Drops Exclusive Two-Part Tell-All With NBA Legend Spencer Haywood
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 6TH, 2025 –VMission Media announced today that former Harlem Globetrotter and current National Basketball Retired Players Association member Harold “Lefty” Williams, host of the acclaimed podcast The Art of Rebounding, has released an exclusive two-part tell-all interview with NBA Hall of Famer, Olympic Gold Medalist, and game-changing advocate Spencer Haywood.
“Talking with Spencer was powerful,” said Lefty Williams, host of The Art of Rebounding. “He’s lived through some of the most pivotal moments in basketball history and still brings so much heart, humility, and perspective to the conversation. This interview goes far beyond the game; it’s about perseverance, purpose, and legacy.”
The Art of Rebounding is available wherever you listen or watch podcasts, including iHeart, The Los Angeles Tribune Podcast Network, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. Follow on Instagram at @TheArtofRebounding and @LeftyWilliams42. The show is produced by The Los Angeles Tribune Podcast Network and exclusively sold by Mission Media, the next-generation platform connecting brands with premium creator-led content across sports, lifestyle, and culture.
iHeart Portland’s K103 Flips To Holiday Music
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 10TH, 2025 – iHeart Portland announced that K103 will once again be Portland’s Christmas Station. On-air personalities Stacey and Mike, Jana and Kristina will continue to host the station’s programming.
“K103 has been Portland’s Christmas station for 25 years,” said Michael La Crosse, Senior Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia Portland. “It means so much to us that Portland listeners continue to let K103 be a part of their holiday traditions with family and friends.”
iHeartMedia is Teaming Up with Daffy for the Voices for Good Challenge🎙️ This holiday season, we’re turning up the volume…on generosity! In partnership with Daffy, a modern giving platform, iHeartMedia is joining Voices for Good: a first-of-its-kind charity challenge where some of your favorite shows will go mic-to-mic to see who can rally their listeners to support the causes and charities they care about most. Because whether you have a platform that reaches millions or simply share what’s important to you with friends, when we speak up about causes and nonprofits that we care about, we inspire others to act. How it works: From Nov. 1 through Giving Tuesday on Dec. 2, hosts from iHeartPodcasts’ popular shows including This is Important, Daniel and Kelly's Extraordinary Universe, How to Money, How Rude, Tanneritos!, Brainstuff, and Before Breakfast have each launched their own charity campaigns and every donation pushes their show up the leaderboard and one step closer to the coveted title of “Ultimate Voice for Good”. But it’s not just about bragging rights. Behind every podcast in the challenge is a story and a cause that truly matters. For How Rude, Tanneritos! co-host Andrea Barber, best known for playing Kimmy Gibbler on the ABC sitcom “Full House”, the challenge hits close to home. She’s raising money for the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation in honor of her mom, who passed away after a four-year battle with pulmonary fibrosis. “She just meant the world to me and to the rest of our Full House family. We want to honor her by helping others who are facing the same fight,” Andrea Barber shared. Meanwhile, shows like This is Important and Daniel and Kelly's Extraordinary Universe are channeling their influence toward causes ranging from protecting the planet to advancing science and global health. Hear directly from the podcasters competing in Voices for Good and find out how the challenge works. More information and the Official Rules can be found here. Plus, every listener donation is also an entry to win a trip for two to the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas, and fans can donate up to twice per day to double their chances. With a real-time leaderboard updating all month long, you can watch as your favorite podcasts battle it out for the No. 1 spot. So, who will take the crown? That part is up to you. Explore the campaign, follow the competition, and make your donation at daffy.org/voicesforgood. Make sure to share your donation and help spread generosity by using #VoicesForGood and tagging @iheartmediaofficial and @daffygiving on social. And if you’re a podcast looking to join in on the fun, reach out to Daffy at partner@daffy.org. Sweepstakes Terms and Condition Share: LinkedIn Tags: Connect with us Categories Announcements Behind the Scenes Data Deep Thoughts Events Music and More Podcasts TheiHeartLife Search Related Posts Tweets by @iHeartRadio iHeartRadio Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeartRadio App. Connect Explore iHeartRadio Live Radio Podcasts Artist Radio Playlists Genres Exclusives News Features Contests Photos Information About iHeartRadio Advertise Blog Brand Guidelines Contest Guidelines Subscription Offers Jobs Get the app Automotive Home Mobile Wearables © 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc. Help Privacy Policy Terms of Use Your Privacy Choices AdChoices Ad Choices This site uses cookies and other tracking technologies for site performance, marketing, and to serve more relevant content and advertisements to you. We share information about your activity on our site with advertising and analytics vendors and other third parties. You can change your preferences at any time by clicking "Your Privacy Choices" in the footer of the site. By continuing to use the site, you agree to our Terms of Use including our class action waiver, and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.