MSBC 38' Makes Its First- Ever Trip To Cleveland' Next August - Some 'Rockin' Details Coming Soon!
It's Official: Audacy's WFAN New York Announces The Return Of Craig Carton In Afternoons
Evan Roberts & Tiki Barber to Debut New Midday Show With Shaun Morash
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 11TH, 2025 – Following multiple reports last week, WFAN (WFAN-FM/AM) has officially announced a revamped weekday programming lineup, effective January 5, 2026. The 
changes are highlighted by the return of Craig Carton, who will host “The Carton Show” alongside Chris McMonigle.
The station is also launching a new midday show, "Evan & Tiki," featuring Evan Roberts, Tiki Barber (shown right) and Shaun Morash. “Evan and Tiki” executive producer Tommy Lugauer will host a new evening show, "After Hours."
"Craig Carton's return reaffirms WFAN's position as New York's premier sports destination for big personalities, compelling conversation and highly engaging content that is difficult to ignore,” said Chris Oliviero, Chief Business Officer and New York Market President, Audacy. “Our 2026 lineup has familiar marquee voices all day and all night, guaranteeing that whenever you tune into The Fan, you will be smack dab in the middle of the New York sports culture."
"WFAN has always been home to me,” said Carton. “Having the opportunity to return and rejoin the best sports talk station in the world is an opportunity I am eagerly looking forward to and beyond excited for.”
Craig Carton rejoins WFAN after previously co-hosting “Carton & Roberts” (2020–2023) and “Boomer and Carton” (2007–2017) on the station. Additionally, he currently hosts "The Craig Carton Show" podcast through FOX/Red Seat Ventures. His weekend WFAN show, "Hello, My Name Is Craig," has aired since 2021 and is regarded as one of the top addiction-oriented podcasts available. In 2024, Carton was inducted into the New York State Broadcasters Hall of Fame.
Dex & Barbie Expand To Power 100.1 Athens, GA
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 11TH, 2025 – While we await the official word from Cox Media Group, we're happy to report the highly popular Dex & Barbie Morning Show which airs from 95.1 WAPE Jacksonville have expanded their show to Georgia on CMG's Power 100.1/WPUP Athens, just beyond the Atlanta market (Watkinsville).
Last September the show was added to afternoon drive on Audacy's B93.7 (WFBC-FM) in Greenville.
They posted on social, "We are adding to our family! Starting on Monday you can hear the Dex and Barbie T show from 6am to 10 on Power 100.1 in Athens GA!!! Its like Christmas came early for us and we are super pumped to be a part of their line up. They have such an amazing team of pros in the building! More stations coming in the new year? I hope so!"
The station posted at its website: " Join us as we celebrate their arrival and get a sneak peek at what listeners in Athens can expect from their hilarious and energetic show. Dex Mitchell and Barbie T.
Jay Mac & Drake Meredith Team For Mornings On Classic Rock 103.5 WIMZ Knoxville
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 11TH, 2025 – Following the conclusion of the John Boy and Billy Show at the end of December, WIMZ is doubling down on its commitment to East Tennessee with a morning show created by—and for—the local community. Jay Mac brings 15 years of WIMZ experience to mornings after hosting the station’s popular night show. Known for her storytelling, community involvement, and authentic connection with listeners, Jay Mac also serves as lead singer of the WIMZ Garage Band, which performs throughout East Tennessee.
Jay Mac shares her excitement for this opportunity, saying, “With wonderful memories of The Night Show, and a heart full of gratitude and love, I am absolutely thrilled to say Good Morning, East Tennessee! Buckle Up Buttercup, this is going to be one wild and crazy ride”.
Joining her is co-host Drake Meredith, who began his radio career in Evansville, Indiana, and joined WIMZ when he relocated to Knoxville in 2019. Drake has become a fan favorite with his self-deprecating humor and memorable stories, embracing his role as Knoxville’s self-appointed “shenanigan specialist.” "Together, Jay Mac and Drake will usher in a new era of Knoxville morning radio—delivering classic rock, local stories, and plenty of laughs to start the day," say Brand Managher Randy Chambers. Jay Mac Drake Meredith For more information, contact Brand Manager, Randy Chambers.
The Bob & Tom Show Presents $15,000 To Indiana Honor Guards Following Veteran’s Day Campaign
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 11TH, 2025 – In a continued effort to support the volunteers who honor America’s veterans at military funerals, The Bob & Tom Show today presented two Indiana-based honor guard units with donations raised during the program’s Operation Honor Guard campaign. During a special presentation on December 11, The Bob & Tom Show, along with longtime Honor Guard advocate Rich Darby, awarded $10,000 to the Indianapolis-area Honor Guard and $5,000 to the Parke County, Indiana Honor Guard. The Parke County gift was made possible through a matching donation from Scott Pet, the Indiana-based makers of Pork Chomps, headquartered in Rockville.
The Bob & Tom Show encourages its nationwide audience to contribute to Operation Honor Guard, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping and supporting the volunteers who provide final military honors at veterans’ funerals. These volunteers often pay out-of-pocket for uniforms and equipment—costs that typically exceed $1,000 per person, with no state or federal funding available. “Our listeners continue to show extraordinary generosity and respect for the men and women who have served,” said The Bob & Tom Show’s founder Tom Griswold. “Honor Guard members volunteer their time, their resources, and their hearts. Helping them continue this mission is the least we can do.”
The campaign also highlighted a growing challenge across the country: aging Honor Guard members in need of new volunteers. Many units are struggling to replace longtime members who are now retiring from service. The Bob & Tom Show used its Veteran’s Day platform to encourage listeners—especially veterans—to consider joining their local Honor Guard to help sustain this vital tradition.
MIW Extends Digital Sales Mentorship Submission Window
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 11TH, 2025 – Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. announced they have extended the submission window for the 2nd Annual Digital Sales Mentorship Program. Candidates now have until December 29, 2025 to apply.
The selected mentee will receive: Monthly one-on-one coaching with an experienced digital sales leader - Access to subject-matter experts across the digital ecosystem - Targeted guidance across core areas of digital revenue strategy, including: Digital Marketing & Analytics Streaming Audio & Podcast Advertising Digital Video and Cross-Platform Integration Social Media Strategy Third-Party Vendor Partnerships CNA Strategy & ROI Measurement - Overcoming Client Objections.
Sales Leadership and Career Pathing Applications are open to women with a minimum of three years of sales experience currently working in radio or digital media sales in the United States. Only one candidate will be selected for this exclusive mentorship. The extended deadline provides a final opportunity for qualified applicants to apply to the 2026 Digital Sales Mentorship Program before the window closes on December 29, 2025. APPLY HERE
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La Grande 107.5 Raises Over $200,000 For Cook Children’s Hospital of Dallas-Fort Worth
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 11TH, 2025 – Audacy's La Grande 107.5 (KMVK-FM) in Dallas, raised over $200,000 for Cook Children’s Hospital of Fort Worth and Children’s Medical Center Dallas. All proceeds go towards supporting children and their families who receive care from the two hospitals. The 13th annual radiothon took place on December 4-5 and was hosted by the station’s morning show “El Chiquilín Todas Las Mañanas.”
Throughout the two days, the station featured stories from patients and their families who’ve received care from the hospitals and expressed their gratitude for the pediatric experts and resources the hospitals provide. El Chiquilín can be heard weekday mornings from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. CST.
“I am so proud of the Metroplex community,” said El Chiquilin, Host, La Grande 107.5. “Even in difficult times, they continue to rise above it and give generously to support such a meaningful cause.”
(Left to right: Children’s Hospital Representative, DJ Pridemore, Children’s Hospital Representative, Armando Ulluo-El Chiquilin, Jimmy Gonzales, Cristina Zuniga, Carlos Estrada, Cooks Children’s Representative)
KFROG Sells Out Inaugural Christmas Throwdown Featuring Tucker Wetmore, Dasha, And More
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 11TH, 2025 – K-FROG Riverside, hosted its first Christmas Throwdown concert at Great Park Live on December 5, headlined by Tucker Wetmore, Dasha, Hudson Westbrook and Mackenzie Carpenter. The sold-out concert was hosted by station host and Brand Manager Heather Froglear, morning show co-host Anthony Donatelli and weekend hosts Dana and Pepper.
Pepper had a special moment with her niece, who experienced her first-ever concert and had the opportunity to come onstage and greet the 7,000+ audience.
Photo Credit/Skyler Barberio.
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97.1 The River Atlanta Celebrates 20 Years With 'The River’s Rockin’ Birthday Bash 2026'
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 11TH, 2025 – 97.1 The River (WSRV/Atlanta, GA) is celebrating its 20th anniversary in true rock-and-roll style with three massive nights of music at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre and Truist Park. The 2026 River’s Rockin’ Birthday Bash brings some of the biggest names in classic rock to Atlanta for an unforgettable anniversary series. Lynyrd Skynyrd x Foreigner: Double Trouble Double Vision Tour on July 23, 2026 at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre - Mötley Crüe: The Return of the Carnival of Sins tour with performances by Tesla & Extreme on August 12, 2026 at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre - Guns n’ Roses on September 19, 2026 at Truist Park Since launching on January 1, 2006,
97.1 The River has been Atlanta’s home for classic hits, fueled by a powerhouse on-air lineup including Axel Lowe, English Nick, and Kaedy Kiely. The station’s 20th anniversary celebration marks its biggest Birthday Bash yet. “We’ll be rockin’ all of North Georgia to celebrate this milestone anniversary, all year long, with live music from these giant artists that make 97.1 the River so popular… and there’s more to come!” said Nate Reed, Director of Operations for CMG Atlanta Radio.
The River’s Rockin’ Birthday Bash events are produced by Live Nation Entertainment and presented by The Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays and Associates.
Andy Dick Says He's Doin Ok;' Taylor Swift Stops By 'Late Show'
Diana Ross Will Headline ‘Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve’ Lineup
Taylor Swift Stops By ‘Late Show’
Hackers Stole $5.3 Billion In 2025 By Impersonating Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, And Others
Andy Dick Says He's Doing Ok After Overdosing On Hollywood Street
Gayle King Admits There’s Drama At CBS, And Says ‘No Doubt’ Changes At ‘CBS Mornings’
'Marvelous Mrs. Maisel' Actor Wenne Davis Dies After Being Hit By Car
‘Supergirl’ Teaser Trailer Photos: First Look At Milly Alcock In DC Studios Superhero Film
Sundance Film Festival Unveils 2026 Features And Episodic Program
Photo/Scott Kowalchyk/CBS
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County Approves 'Seacrest Stadium' At Georgia High School In Honor Of Famous 1992 Graduate
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 10TH, 2025 – At its Dec. 8th meeting, The DeKalb County Georgia School Board approved “Seacrest Stadium” as the name of Dunwoody High School’s soon-to-be-renovated athletic complex at its Dec. 8 meeting. The stadium is named in honor of its famed 1992 Dunwoody High School alumnus. Appen Media reports The “Bring It Home” campaign needs to raise $1.5 million from the community to match Ryan Seacrest’s roughly $1 million pledge.
As a student at Dunwoody High School, Seacrest auditioned for and earned the opportunity to host the school’s morning announcements. At just 16 years old, he transformed the daily announcements into a full morning broadcast show, beginning each day with an enthusiastic, “Good morning, Dunwoody!” Of note: Ryan was also a member of the football team, which won the 1992 AAAA Regional Championship.
The “Bring It Home: One Family, One Field” campaign ramped up in August after the School Board approved an item allowing the Dunwoody community to privately fund and build additional seating and associated structures necessary to host high school varsity football games. In late November, committee member Catherine Mootz said the campaign had an alumnus committed to donating a large lump sum, rumored to be around $1 million, separate from the community fundraiser.
“Ryan Seacrest and his parents, Gary and Connie, worked steadfastly for more than 20 years with members of the community to help make this stadium a reality,” Mootz wrote in her announcement. “The new Seacrest Stadium will give Dunwoody something it has never truly had — a home field worthy of its pride and tradition.”
Ryan Seacrest now hosts and produces the internationally syndicated “On Air with Ryan Seacrest” and “American Top 40 with Ryan Seacrest.” In addition to his 'American Idol' duties, last year he took the reins of “Wheel of Fortune.” For more information regarding plans for Seacrest Stadium, visit bringithomedunwoody.com. Photo/bringithomedunwoody.com
'Nick & Kristen's Medical Debt Payoff' Raises A Staggering $2.17 Million For The Pacific Northwest
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 10TH, 2025 – Audacy's 99.5 The Wolf (KWJJ-FM) Portland helped pay off $2.17 million in local qualifying medical debt during its 6th annual “Nick and Kristen’s Medical Debt Payoff.” In partnership with the national nonprofit charity 'Undue Medical Debt,' this campaign has raised over $18 million over the past six years, paying off full medical debt for over 10,000 people in the Pacific Northwest.
“Our listeners continue to humble us in their support of our mission to free our friends and neighbors from crippling medical debt,” said Nick and Kristen, co-hosts, Nick & Kristen in the Morning. “We personally understand the massive weight this debt can have on a family, and we are so grateful to have eliminated that burden for over 1,400 people this holiday season.”
The campaign ran from November 17 to 21. Every day, Nick and Kristen encouraged listeners to donate and help alleviate the worries of struggling local families during the holiday season. Undue Medical Debt is a charity that aims to strengthen communities by lifting the weight of strenuous medical debt.
B-Dub Radio's National Weekday Footprint Rises To 60 Affiliates
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 10TH, 2025 – B-Dub Radio, through its syndication partner, Skyview Networks, announced the expansion of its national network to 60 weekday affiliates with the additions of several new stations across the US, including KDZY-FM Boise, ID, KALF-FM Chico-Redding, CA and KLLL-FM Lubbock, TX.
“Hitting 60 weekday affiliates is a big milestone, especially for an independently owned show,” said Bryan “B-Dub” Washington, host of B-Dub Radio. “I am beyond grateful for every PD, GM and listener who decided to take this ride with us. We’re building something special, and we’re nowhere close to done. There is more to do and more opportunity to serve!”
“We are thrilled to see B-Dub Radio continue to set itself apart as one of the most dynamic and engaging country radio shows on air,” said Andrew Kalb, EVP, Strategic Business Operations of Skyview Networks. “With each new affiliate comes another opportunity to showcase B-Dub’s incredible talent, and with its expanded footprint, deliver even greater value to advertisers. We are proud to be a part of the show’s continued success." B-Dub Radio airs five hours daily in multiple dayparts, Monday through Saturday. For affiliation information, contact affiliation@skyviewsat.com or visit skyviewnetworks.com/b-dub/.
Glenn Marshall Tapped As New Evening Anchor And Reporter For WBBM Chicago
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 10TH, 2025 – Audacy welcomes Glenn Marshall as the new evening anchor and reporter for WBBM Newsradio (780 AM / 105.9 FM) in Chicago. “Glenn’s combination of experience, authenticity and professionalism will immediately strengthen our afternoon reporting and bring a recognizable, trusted voice to our evening anchoring,” said Craig Schwalb, Brand Manager, WBBM Newsradio. “We’re excited to welcome Glenn and see the impact he will have on our newsroom and the Chicago audience."
“Chicago made me. I listened to WBBM Newsradio as a kid and dreamed of one day being part of the voices that inform this city. Now I get to continue telling the stories that matter to the neighborhoods I know and love,” said Marshall. “I am proud to join the team and shine a light on the issues and victories that shape our communities every day. Thanks to Craig Schwalb, Kevin Cassidy and everyone at Audacy for this opportunity."
His career began at NBC Chicago, where he rose from intern to news associate. Marshall's reporting experience spans the country, including work as a general assignment reporter for WICS-TV in Springfield, a reporter for NBC Boston and NECN in Boston and various roles in Atlanta at CBS46. He most recently returned home to report for WGN-TV. Marshall remains active with NABJ, committed to mentoring young journalists while continuing to tell stories that reflect and uplift Chicago’s communities.
iHeart Milwaukee’s WISN's Legendary Host Jay Weber To Conclude Daily Morning Show; Will Launch New iHeart Podcast In Spring 2026
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 10TH, 2025 – December 9, 2025 – iHeartMedia Milwaukee’s NewsTalk 1130 WISN announced that longtime weekday morning host Jay Weber will conclude his role as daily host of “The Jay Weber Show” later this month, marking a major milestone in an extraordinary 35-year career with the station. Weber, who has hosted mornings since 2007 and currently holds the most listened-to morning drive show in the State of Wisconsin, will continue with WISN and iHeartMedia as he moves into a new audio chapter.
Beginning Spring 2026, Weber will host a new twice weekly iHeartPodcast, modeled after the signature insight, conversation and commentary that have made his morning show a statewide leader. Weber will also remain a contributor to WISN programming and station initiatives.
“It has been an incredible honor to wake up Wisconsin for the past 35 years, and I’m grateful to every listener who has made this show part of their morning routine,” said Weber. “I’m not retiring — just shifting formats — and I’m excited to continue the conversation in a new twice-weekly podcast.”
“Jay Weber has been one of the best talk show hosts in America for a long time,” said Jerry Bott, WISN Program Director. “He’s built a bond of trust and credibility with his listeners, and after 35 years on the daily morning clock, transitioning to a twice-weekly podcast is much-deserved while still delivering for his loyal listeners."
Geary Yonker Joins Paragon As Sponsorship Consultant
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 10TH, 2025 – Long-time public radio sponsorship sales manager Geary Yonker joins Paragon as Sponsorship Consultant. Paragon CEO Mike Henry said, “Geary’s established role in producing sponsorship revenue for WBEZ Chicago, Sound Opinions, and with events is invaluable for Paragon clients. Public radio stations need increased sponsorship revenue and new revenue streams ensure sustainability, and Geary will help them reach their income goals.”
Yonker said, "I'm thrilled to join the Paragon team and bring my 25 years of experience identifying emerging trends and raising millions of dollars for mission-driven organizations. We can view this moment either as a catastrophe or as a catalyst for the long-needed changes our industry requires. I see it as an opportunity to push forward.”
Yonker was recently named Sponsorship Director at VuHaus Group where Henry is a Director. Based in Chicago, Yonker will continue in that role and with Sound Opinions. Geary has helped news organizations develop their digital sales strategies, managed the Chicago edition of The Onion, founded a music festival enjoyed by over 400,000 guests, and has been a national leader in podcast sales. Yonker can be reached at geary@teamparagon.consulting.
Radio Resources’ POD Closes Year With New Affiliations And Expanded Talent Roster
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 10TH, 2025 – Radio Resources’ Personality on Demand (POD) is wrapping up a milestone year marked by remarkable growth, new high-profile station affiliations. This year, POD welcomed major new shows and talent partnerships, reinforcing its commitment to providing world-class on-air personalities to stations seeking immediacy, consistency, and connection.
Among the standout developments: Jay Beau Jones joined Cumulus WLS-FM Chicago and Beasley WROR Boston, bringing his signature energy and wide-ranging mass-appeal style to two powerhouse brands. Jackson Blue expanded his POD presence to over 20 stations, including SummitMedia’s WWST Knoxville, KQCH Omaha, and KSPW Springfield. POD also welcomed a new wave of dynamic, market-tested talent including Marty McFly, Julian On The Radio, Kendall B, Jess Wright, and Barry McKay, offering stations more options than ever to craft compelling local sound with proven personalities. They join existing talent Danny & Kait, Steve Kelly, Marissa Lanchak, Skywalker, Riley Couture, Miggy Santos, Bo Corona and more!
“We are thrilled to have continued to build out an exceptional talent roster for our radio partners all year,” said Rich O’Brien, Chief Development Officer for Radio Resources. Radio Resources supports radio brands with the people and products that keep listeners coming back. Media Contact: Radio Resources rich.obrien@radioresources.com www.radioresources.com
SNAPS: Tim Leary Takes The Stage At The Grand Ole Opry
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 10TH, 2025 – Tim Leary, morning co-host at WIRK/New Country 103.1 West Palm Beach, says, "Friday night I had the honor of guest announcing onstage at the Grand Ole Opry as part of their 100 year celebration. It was seriously one best experiences of my career. It’s truly a memory I’ll never forget. The second you step backstage, you see and feel all of its 100 year history. "
Leary adds, that he dyed the Mohawk purple in honor of his dad who passed away from complications from Alzheimer’s and Dementia. "Had a hard time getting through that one." Watch Video HERE
iHeart Charlotte’s HITS 96.1 Announces The Debut Of 'The Fred Show' Beginning In January
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 9TH, 2025 – iHeart Charlotte’s HITS 96.1 announced the debut of Premiere Networks syndicated “The Fred Show,” effective January 5, 2026. “The Fred Show” features host Fred and his cast of characters, including Kaelin, Paulina, Showbiz Shelly, Jason Brown and Keke. No stranger to Charlotte audiences, Fred joined the recently relaunched WCCB-TV evening magazine program “The EDGE,” which he co-hosted from 2007-2010. He also previously hosted mornings on iHeartMedia’s 96.1 The Beat.
“It’s a Charlotte homecoming!” shared Fred. “I started my morning radio career there and I’m so grateful and excited to bring ‘The Fred Show’ to the QC!” “We are thrilled to welcome Fred back to Charlotte,” said Trevor Morini, Senior Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia Charlotte and Raleigh. “Featuring a dynamic mix of personalities and life stages, ‘The Fred Show’ offers someone for everyone to relate to.”
The Fred Show follows “The Miguel & Holly Show,” who are returning to Tampa Bay where they'll take over mornings on iHeart's Mix 100.7 beginning January.
KOLA 99.9 San Bernadino Bids Farewell To Vic Slick
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 9TH, 2025 – KOLA 99.9 announces the retirement of beloved on-air personality Victor "Vic Slick" Corral, who will conclude his 31-year career with the station on Friday, December 12, 2025. Vic’s final Afternoon Drive show will air from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM, marking the end of an era for Inland Empire radio listeners. Vic Slick began his journey at KOLA in 1994 as a Nightime Host and steadily rose through the ranks, later hosting the Morning Show before settling into his most recent role as afternoon host. Beyond radio, Slick became the iconic "Voice of the Rendezvous," serving as the announcer for San Bernardino's legendary Route 66 Rendezvous car show for many years.
"Ever since I was 8, I’ve wanted to be on the radio. Growing up in the Inland Empire (Colton), I listened to KMEN, KFXM, KRLA, and KHJ. My heroes growing up were Wolfman Jack, Casey Kasem, and The Real Don Steele. Working on the radio where I grew up? Totally a dream come true. And, combining my radio career with my love of classic car shows? Can’t get any better than that. The Inland Empire has been amazing to me, and I’m so thankful," said Vic.
"Vic has spent thirty-one incredible years doing what he does best, connecting with listeners in the Inland Empire," said Gary Springfield, Program Director at KOLA. "He is the best of all of what KOLA represents to the community. His impact is immeasurable, and his presence will be deeply missed by our team and our listeners."
Jeremy Price Tapped As VP/MM of Cumulus Stockton/Modesto
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 9TH, 2025 – Cumulus has appointed radio and digital sales and management veteran Jeremy Price as Vice President/Market Manager of Cumulus Stockton/Modesto, CA. rice joins Cumulus Media from Connoisseur Media (formerly Alpha Media) in Bakersfield, CA, where he was Market Manager for five years. Prior to that he was President, iHeartMedia-Bakersfield. He was also General Sales Manager for Mega 97.9 Oldies/KMGV-FM in Fresno, CA, and Director of Digital Sales for Peak Broadcasting.
Patty Hixson, Regional Vice President, Cumulus Media, said: “Jeremy is a very special leader and a highly effective manager who will greatly contribute to the success of the Stockton/Modesto cluster. We are pleased to welcome him aboard.”
Jeremy Price commented: "Cumulus Stockton/Modesto has long been a dominant force in the market and I am humbled to be trusted with these amazing stations." Cumulus Media owns and operates six popular audio brands in the Stockton/Modesto market, including: KAT Country 103/KATM-FM (Country); Sports Radio AM970/KESP-AM (Sports); 104.1 The Hawk/KHKK-FM/KDJK-FM (Classic Rock); KHOP 95.1/KHOP-FM (CHR); 99.3 KJOY/KJOY-FM (AC); and 97.7/98.3 KWIN/ KWIN-FM/KWNN-FM (Rhythmic CHR).
BPM Appoints Maxie Jackson As Program Director
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 9TH, 2025 – Baltimore Public Media (BPM) announced the appointment of Maxie C. Jackson III as its new Program Director, overseeing content strategy and programming across WYPR 88.1 FM, WTMD 89.7 FM, and Your Public Studios.
Jackson comes to Baltimore following a distinguished career shaping some of the country’s most influential public radio stations. Most recently, he served as Executive Director of 88Nine Radio Milwaukee. Previously, Jackson served as the first Chief Content Officer of New England Public Media, guiding cross-platform content across television, radio, digital, and social media. His prior programming leadership includes the launch of local and national programming at WETA (Washington, D.C.) and WNYC (New York) and key roles at WEAA (Baltimore) and WCPN (Cleveland).
“We are thrilled to welcome Maxie Jackson to Baltimore Public Media. His innovative approach to programming, his dedication to serving diverse audiences, and his proven ability to build meaningful, mission-driven content make him an exceptional fit for this moment in our organization’s growth,” said Craig N. Swagler, President and General Manager of Baltimore Public Media. “Maxie’s leadership will strengthen our local programming, music, and cultural offerings while deepening our connection to communities across Maryland.”
“Public radio is at its best when it reflects the depth, complexity, and creativity of the communities it serves. I’m honored to join Baltimore Public Media and to work with the exceptional teams at WYPR, WTMD, and Your Public Studios to help shape what comes next for audiences across our region,” Jackson said. “Baltimore is a city rich with story, culture, and voice. I look forward to building programming that uplifts all of it.”
KNSS Wichita To Launch 'Woodward And Whit' In Mornings Beginning In January
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 9TH, 2025 – Audacy's KNSS is launching a new morning show, “Woodward and Whit,” on January 5, 2026. John Whitmer will join co-host Ted Woodward weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. CST. Whitmer succeeds Steve McIntosh following his retirement. “We are excited to welcome John Whitmer to the KNSS morning show alongside Ted Woodward,” said Tommy Castor, Senior Vice President and Market Manager, Audacy Wichita. “‘Woodward and Whit’ will build on the foundation of smart, local conversation that our listeners expect by delivering the essential news, candid analysis and enjoyable banter that starts the day right. This is a powerful pairing that promises to keep the Wichita community informed and engaged.”
"I’m honored to join Ted Woodward on 'Woodward & Whit,' stepping into the big shoes left by Steve McIntosh, who dedicated over 50 years to Wichita mornings,” said Whitmer. “I look forward to bringing news coverage, straight talk, common-sense discussion and a little fun to help our community start the day on the right note."
Whitmer is a veteran of Kansas politics, having served in key roles across local, state and national campaigns. He worked as the 4th District Field Director for Senator Jerry Moran’s 2016 re-election campaign and the 2019 Kobach/Hartman gubernatorial race. He chaired the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training (2012-2018) and served as the State Representative (93rd District, 2015-2019). Whitmer joined KNSS in 2018.
Kathleen Kirby And Heidi Raphael Elected To Media Institute Board
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 9TH, 2025 – Two distinguished leaders in the media industry, Kathleen Kirby of Wiley Rein LLP and Heidi Raphael of Beasley Media Group, have been elected to the Board of Trustees of The Media Institute. Kathleen Kirby has been a media lawyer for more than three decades. She is a partner at Wiley Rein LLC in Washington, D.C., where she co-chairs the Telecom, Media, and Technology practice and sits on the firm’s Executive and Management committees.
Ms. Kirby is a past president of the Federal Communications Bar Association. She has received leadership awards from both RTDNA and the Broadcasters Foundation of America and was inducted into the National Freedom of Information Hall of Fame.
Heidi Raphael is Chief Communications Officer of Beasley Media Group, where she oversees corporate branding, public relations, and internal and external communications strategy for one of America’s leading multi-platform media companies. Ms. Raphael has served as Co-Chair of the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation (LABF) for the past five years and previously held key leadership roles with Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW), where she spent seven years as the organization’s spokesperson.
In addition, Ms. Raphael served as an elected member of the NAB Radio Board of Directors. She is a currently member of the Florida Association of Broadcasters Board of Directors and is a past recipient of the Broadcasters Foundation of America Leadership Award. The Media Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization specializing in communications policy and the First Amendment. Visit the Institute at www.mediainstitute.org.
'Call Her Daddy','SmartLess' & 'Mel Robbins' Leads With 3 Of 6 Golden Globes In Best Podcast Nominations
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 9TH, 2025 – SiriusXM's “Call Her Daddy,” “SmartLess,” and “The Mel Robbins Podcast” leads the nominations for inaugural Best Podcast category at the 83rd Annual Golden Globes®, with three of the six nominees—part of the SiriusXM Podcast Network. This marks the first time a major awards show has formally recognized podcasting, and SiriusXM’s dominant presence among the nominees underscores the company’s role at the forefront of the industry.
Scott Greenstein, President and Chief Content Officer at SiriusXM says, “We couldn’t be prouder of our nominees for the first-ever Golden Globe Award for Best Podcast. The exceptional work behind ‘Call Her Daddy,’ ‘SmartLess,’ and ‘The Mel Robbins Podcast’ continues to resonate with their massive audiences, and it’s gratifying to see that impact recognized on one of entertainment’s biggest stages.”
“Call Her Daddy” is a worldwide hit and cultural force, known for its raw, empowering conversations and consistently ranking among the most-listened-to podcasts globally. As the top female podcaster in the world, host Alex Cooper has cultivated a passionate “Daddy Gang” community that continues to propel the show’s influence. Hosted by Will Arnett, Jason Bateman, and Sean Hayes, the award-winning “SmartLess” consistently ranks among the top five podcasts, offering revealing and often comedic conversations with some of the most notable guests in entertainment, culture, and beyond. “The Mel Robbins Podcast” has rapidly become one of the most-followed and most-streamed podcasts. The show continues to resonate with millions seeking practical advice and inspiration for navigating everyday life.
Delilah Co-Hosts 106.7 Lite FM’s Skating In Central Park And Chats With NBC News Now In New York
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 9TH, 2025 – Premiere Networks-syndicated personality Delilah returned as a co-host of 106.7 Lite FM’s annual Skating in Central Park event on Saturday, December 6. Delilah joined iHeartMedia Lite FM personalities Paul “Cubby” Byant, Christine Nagy, Helen Little and Rich Kaminski at Wollman Rink in the heart of Central Park in New York to ring in the holiday season and meet fans and listeners.
While she was in New York, Delilah spoke to NBC News NOW’s “Top Story with Tom Llamas” for a wide-ranging interview covering her four-decades-long career in the radio business, her recent addition to KOST 103.5 in Los Angeles, how she picks the perfect song for her callers, her popularity on social media, her most memorable caller, and more. Watch the interview HERE.
Delilah told Llamas: “When I go in the studio, I truly focus on each person that sends me a text, or hits me up on TikTok or whatever, and whoever is on the phone line, and that’s who I’m talking to. If I were to think about the numbers…I would probably get stage fright.” On the key to her success, Delilah shared: “...I just want to be a safe place. That’s my only goal. You know, it sounds corny, but it’s true – my producers and I all shave the same theory, the same philosophy that we want to be a light in the darkness. We want to be a safe place…I just want to love you.”
Pictured left to right: 106.7 Lite FM personalities Helen Little and Rich Kaminski with Delilah at iHeartMedia’s 106.7 Lite FM studios in New York City.
SNAPS: JVC Ft. Walton Beach Camps Out On The Scissor-Lift For Annual 'Bikes Or Bust' Event
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 9TH, 2025 – "This past week, in miserable wet and cold weather, the entire team at JVC Ft. Walton Beach WZLB, WHWY, WWAV and WBON spent days broadcasting 24/7 from a scissor-lift for its annual Bikes or Bust fundraiser." John Caracciolo, President/CEO JVC Broadcasting, shares, "They were freezing, soaked, exhausted, and aching. And as CEO, I want to say this clearly: I didn’t tell them to do it. They chose to. They do it because they believe deeply in their community. They understand they are the stewards of their local airwaves, the real influencers of their hometowns, and they take that responsibility seriously."
Caracciolo adds, "Local radio always has your back. The radio stations were on site and battled the rain for 98 hours straight to collect donations while their DJs camped atop a 30-foot-tall scissor-lift, with only a tent and sleeping bag to protect them from the elements!"
Along with representatives of JVC Broadcasting Fort Walton Beach and Panama City Beach, local listeners, community businesses and military volunteers, they collected hundreds of bikes, helmets, toys and thousands of dollars for the toy drive. Okaloosa/Walton County, said $15,000 had been collected along with 286 bikes and additional toys. The funds will be used to buy additional bikes, toys and more for local children of all ages. "Remember that behind every local station are real people who live in the communities they serve. People who show up — literally — when their neighbors need them. Nobody does it better than local radio," says Caracciolo.
Connoisseur Media Announces Return Of Live & Local Mornings On 'Free Country' Chicagoland
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 8TH, 2025 – Connoisseur Media announced the return of live and local mornings on Chicagoland’s FREE Country @ 98.3 & 102.3 (WCCQ / WXLC) beginning the first week of 2026, with celebrated market and country radio veteran Drew Walker (TL )stepping into the morning host role. In addition to his new morning duties, Walker has been elevated to Program Director of FREE Country, advancing from his previous role as Assistant Program Director. The promotion is effective immediately.
“Moving into mornings and the Program Director seat feels a little surreal,” said Walker. “This station has been my passion project from day one, and I’m grateful for the chance to help lead its next chapter -- Super thanks to Gordon Mays, Karl Wertzler, Brian Foster, Keith Dakin and Jeff Warshaw for this amazing opportunity!”
Connoisseur Media also announced that Leah Andersen (TR), morning co-host of Rock sister station 95 WIIL Rock (WIIL-FM) and current weekend host on FREE Country, will move into the afternoon drive slot previously held by Walker. “As a lifelong country fan, a mom of three, and a wife juggling the same day-to-day as our listeners, I’m thrilled for this new role,” said Andersen. “Connecting with this community is one of my favorite parts of the job, and I can’t wait to bring that to afternoons.”
Gordon Mays, Connoisseur Chicagoland Operations Manager, celebrated the moves as an important step in strengthening the station’s local identity and deepening listener connection. “Drew’s experience and decades-long connection with the Chicagoland country music audience make this a very exciting time to be in FREE Country,” said Mays.
WZPL's 'Smiley Morning Show' Raises $825,983 +82 Wishes In Annual 'Make-A-Wish-A-Thon
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 8TH, 2025 – Cumulus' 99.5 WZPL in Indianapolis, IN, and The Smiley Morning Show Make-A-Wish Request-A-Thon raised $824,983 and granted 82 wishes during its 29th annual 36+ hour live special broadcast to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Ohio, Kentucky & Indiana. 99.5 WZPL sounded a bit different for 36 hours because the station played anything Thursday, December 4 and Friday, December 5 to raise money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation! Generous listeners requested everything from (ouch) the Ohio State Fight song to N’Sync’s “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays,” to songs from KPop Demon Hunters, and everything in between.
The Smiley Morning Show - including Dave Smiley (RC), Nikki (TL), Producer Will (TR), and Toni (LC)- was on air live for the entire 36 hours, fueled by caffeine and a desire to help as many Hoosier kids as possible. "Despite the hard times that everybody is going through our listeners showed up in a big way for these amazing kids who deserve an amazing wish! We are so grateful to the city of Indy and every single dollar donated to Make A Wish," said co-host Nikki Reed.
Jules Dygert Joins Pillar Media As Senior Marketing Specialist For Denver Trio
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 8TH, 2025 – Pillar Media has named Jules Dygert senior marketing specialist for its Denver stations: THE NEW FLO 107.1 (KFCO), STAR 101.5 (KSRC), and AM 910 (KPOF). Dygert brings several years of experience in media sales with Salem Media Group. Most recently, she worked as an elementary educator. “I’m thrilled to jump back into the radio industry with Pillar Media,” Dygert said. “Their commitment to uplifting, Christ-centered content resonates deeply with me. I’m honored for the opportunity to help businesses connect with our stations’ audiences.”
During her tenure at Salem Media Group, Dygert built partnerships with businesses, ministries and nonprofits to create strategic marketing campaigns. She also developed customized multiplatform solutions, utilizing radio, digital, and event sponsorships.
“We're excited to welcome Jules,” said Eric Case, senior director of sales at Pillar Media. “She brings a passion for helping her business partners reach their goals by providing solutions for all their advertising needs. Jules' extensive marketing knowledge and enthusiasm are a perfect fit for our Denver team. I am truly excited to walk alongside Jules as she begins her time with us at Pillar Media.”
DTS AutoStage Webinar to Reveal In-Car Audience Measurement Leap
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 8TH, 2025 – The radio industry is rolling out new in-car measurement that will dramatically change how broadcasters prove value to advertisers. In this live presentation, Juan Galdamez, Senior Director, Broadcast Strategy & Business Development, Xperi, will introduce first-of-its-kind, in-car audience ratings captured daily from more than 6 million vehicles via the company’s DTS AutoStage broadcaster portal. With data available in 250 markets regardless of how those markets are currently measured, this new system represents a major leap in proving radio’s real-time, in-vehicle performance with metrics advertisers already understand and trust.
Virtually all in-car AM/FM listening is over-the-air through the dashboard, putting broadcast radio squarely in the driver’s seat. With DTS AutoStage, radio’s strongest listening environment is now measurable at scale. 80% of U.S. consumers are reached daily by in-vehicle AM/FM radio (MRI Simmons) 50% of all 25–54 AM/FM listening happens in the car (Edison Share of Ear) AM/FM owns 85% of ad-supported audio time in vehicles (Edison Share of Ear).
Participants will gain a better understanding of DTS AutoStage and its capabilities, future innovation coming next year, and the ease of participation. Juan Galdamez, Xperi 12:00 p.m. CT on Friday, December 12 Live Online Presentation The live virtual session and accompanying resources are free and open to broadcasters. To register for this presentation, click here.
Nachum Segal Network Taps Zeno Plus As Its End-To-End Platform Partner
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 8TH, 2025 – The Nachum Segal Network (NSN) has selected Zeno Plus, a Zeno Media company, as its partner across podcasting, broadcast operations, and digital. The engagement includes podcast hosting, an AI podcast bot to record, edit, and publish episodes, a new NSN website, a subscriber/supporter section with exclusive content, and radio consulting to optimize on-air programming and distribution.
“Zeno Plus was built by listening to what broadcasters actually need - modern tools that don’t compromise what makes their brands unique,” said Chaim Gross, Chief Product Officer, Zeno Media. “We’re excited to support Nachum Segal’s team with AI-powered creation, seamless distribution, and new revenue pathways so they can spend more time serving their audience.”
“Partnering with Zeno Plus lets us streamline production and elevate how our community experiences NSN every day,” said Nachum Segal, President, Nachum Segal Network. “From faster publishing to an upgraded website and subscriber offering, this collaboration strengthens our ability to deliver motivating, essential, and timely content, true to our values and our audience.”
For more information and to schedule a demo, visit www.zenoplus.co.
iHeart Announces 'An Unlikely Affair,' The First Series To Debut Under Lala Kent’s And iHeart’s New Expanded Podcast Slate
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 8TH, 2025 – Today, December 8, 2025 iHeartPodcasts announced the launch of “An Unlikely Affair,” the first official series under Lala Kent’s new “Untraditionally Lala” umbrella, a growing podcast slate that will expand within iHeart’s Popworthy lineup of shows. Hosted by reality TV star and entrepreneur Lala Kent alongside actress and producer Ambyr Childers, who’s best known for her roles in “You” and “Ray Donovan,” the new series will build on the success of Kent’s previously launched podcast “Untraditionally Lala,” where Childers made her first appearance earlier this year. “An Unlikely Affair” premieres on January 8, 2026.
Each week on “An Unlikely Affair,” Lala and Ambyr dive into the realities single mothers face, drawing from a past that once made them sworn enemies after sharing the same ex. In a twist no one saw coming, the two have let go of their history and built an unexpected, deeply honest friendship. Together, they explore how to navigate major transitions, manage mom guilt while reclaiming their identities.
Kent will continue to host “Untraditionally Lala” with episodes dropping every Wednesday, and bonus content released on Mondays. “An Unlikely Affair” is distributed by iHeartPodcasts as part of its Popworthy slate.
Rowdy Yates Offering Free Christmas Content
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 8TH, 2025 – Rowdy Yates has prepared a TON of free Christmas content for 2025. If it is long-form music programming like “A Really Rowdy Christmas” or “A Lone Star Christmas” plus the plug-and-play “Ridin’ with Rowdy” that conforms to YOUR clocks, format, spot load, he’s got you covered for any day (and daypart) over the holiday break.
For the first time ever, a special, content rich edition of “Rowdy on the Rise” that can give your morning show a breather. All with no contracts, no barter, no fee, no joke. Reach out to him directly: rowdy@rowdyyates.com
'The Erick Erickson Show' Offering A Christmas Special For All Stations
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 8TH, 2025 – The Erick Erickson Show offering Christmas Special for all stations across the country have issues filling content during the holiday season, "The Erick Erickson Show" is offering its Christmas Special for any station that wishes to take it...current affiliate or not. The nationally syndicated "The Erick Erickson Show" airs live weekdays 12p-3p ET from WW1, delivered via Wegener XDS. The Christmas Special will air on 12/24 and 12/25 and can be run in delay.
"The annual Erick Erickson Show Christmas Special pulls the focus back from daily headlines to a larger picture based on the holiday — why does the world seem off balance, what is our role in the world, and why do 3 billion people globally celebrate the birth of a kid 2000 years ago? The show features interviews with thought leaders and theologians about the bigger issues of the day than the daily headlines."
If you are interested in running the show, please reach out to Rob Blum of Compass Media (rblum@compassmedianetworks.com) to ensure your receiver is enabled and you're not in a market with a current affiliate. About the Show The Erick Erickson Show delivers insightful commentary on politics, culture, and news with a distinctive national perspective.
The program airs live weekdays from 12–3 p.m. ET and is available for streaming 24/7 at ErickErickson.com and via the Audacy and TuneIn apps. It is a nationally syndicated program with more than 70 affiliates.
Seven Audacy Stations Across The Country Unite For 36th 'Country Cares St. Jude Kids Radiothon'
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 5TH, 2025 – As we're inclined to do each Friday between Thanksgiving and Christmas, our top stories will shine the light on a few of the incredible ways radio lends a hand to those in need during the holidays. We start with Audacy's 36th annual “Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon.” In support of its life-saving mission: Finding cures. On December 11 and 12, seven Audacy stations will continue their partnership with St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
Saving children.® For the first time, CMA, ACM, Billboard Music Award Winner and the highest RIAA-certified country artist of all time, Luke Combs, will host an Audacy Country St. Jude takeover hour on December 11 at 12:00 p.m. local time.
Programming will run from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. local time on December 11 and from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. local time on December 12. Participating stations include U.S. 101 (WUSY-FM) in Chattanooga, US99 (WUSN-FM) in Chicago, 99.5 WYCD (WYCD-FM) in Detroit, KMLE Country 107.9 (KMLE-FM) in Phoenix, Y108 (WDSY-FM) in Pittsburgh, 103.7 KSON (KSON-FM) in San Diego and Froggy 101 (WGGY-FM) in Wilkes-Barre. The two-day radiothon will be hosted by personalities home to each local brand and Audacy talent Katie Neal and Holly Hutton & Rob Stone.
And So It Begins: KLUC's Chet Buchanan Kicks Off His 27th Legendary Toy Drive In Las Vegas
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 5TH, 2025 – Chet Buchanan has spent a good chunk of his life during the holiday season gathering donations for Las Vegas families in need...not to mention, doing it from high atop a 30-foot scaffold! This week he officially began hosting his 27th Annual Audacy/98.5 KLUC Chet Buchanan Show Toy Drive presented by The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. Chet says, "Day One (yesterday) was Day 289 for me. Day 12 this year will mark 300 days. 10 months of my life!"
The 27th Annual 98.5 KLUC Chet Buchanan Show Toy Drive presented by Venetian Resort Las Vegas kicked off on December 4, 2025 and will continue until December 15 at 10am. And yup, he stays up on the Scaffold. Chet says “Outside of what we call “The Big Mistake” when I went to Portland and missed the 2002 and 2003 Toy Drives, I have stayed on the scaffold all day, every day and never come down. The first day of this year’s Toy Drive will be my 193rd day of living on a scaffold. That’s over 6 months of my life! "
”He tells FOX 5/Vegas this year he's hoping to get a record 8,000 bikes and to draw $800,000 in cash donations, compared to last year's $786,894. Watch FOX 5 'Vegas report HERE
Sommer Frisk, Cumulus VP/MM- Oxnard/Ventura, To Be Honored During Annual Poinsettia Awards
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 5TH, 2025 – The Ventura Chamber of Commerce will recognize outstanding achievements of businesses and individuals who make a difference in our community at the December 11 Poinsettia Awards Luncheon, from 11:30am-1:30pm at the Marriott Ventura Beach. Presented by the Ventura Chamber, among those honored will be Sommer Frisk (shown 3rd from left), VP/MM of Cumulus Oxnard/Ventura for her community service.
These awards acknowledge the best that Ventura has to offer. The Poinsettia Awards Luncheon happens on Thursday, December 11, 11:30am-1:30pm at the Marriott Ventura Beach. The Ventura Chamber of Commerce is a membership-based organization that advocates on behalf of the business community. With 700 members, representing more than 25,000 employees locally, the Chamber engages on a variety of issues that help to drive a strong local economy as a catalyst for business growth, a convener of leaders and influencers, and a champion for a stronger Ventura.
Audacy's 105.3 The Fan Raises $77,000 During K&C Masterpiece’s 12th Annual Piece-A-Thon
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 5TH, 2025 – Audacy's 105.3 The Fan (KRLD-FM) Dallas raised $77,000 during its 12th annual Piece-a-Thon Fundraiser benefiting two local Dallas-Fort Worth organizations, My Possibilities and Sandlot Children’s Charity. The 12th annual Piece-a-Thon took place on November 26 and was hosted by 105.3 The Fan’s midday hosts Kevin Hageland and Cory Mageors from “K&C Masterpiece.” The duo broadcast live from RJ Duke’s Sports and were joined by special guests throughout the day, including former Texas Rangers players Derek Holland and Will “The Thrill” Clark, Dallas Stars Hall of Fame Goaltender Marty Turco, Texas Rangers infielder Jake Burger and German actor Flula (Suicide Squad, Pitch Perfect).
“We love the opportunity to spotlight our favorite community causes with the platform that 105.3 The Fan and Audacy provide,” said Cory Mageors, Co-Host, K&C Masterpiece. “Our turn it on, leave it on, listeners make every second of this yearly marathon broadcast adventure worth the effort.” $60,000 will go to My Possibilities, supporting the nonprofit’s mission to provide adults with Down Syndrome, Autism and other cognitive disabilities the chance to continue their education.
My Possibilities is a charity personally driven by Mageors due to a challenging event in his family. His daughter, at the age of 4 days old, sustained brain damage due to a seizure. Even though they weren’t sure if she would ever require the organization’s specific services, the knowledge that My Possibilities was available provided great comfort. $17,000 will benefit The Sandlot Children’s Charity, to help provide financial assistance to children with physical and intellectual disabilities who wish to participate in sports.
Top Photo L-R: Kevin Hageland, Brett Galitz, former Dallas Texas Rangers pitcher Derek Holland and Kevin Walker
107.1 The Boss Hosts Mistletoe Rock Radiothon To Benefit JBJ Soul Kitchen
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 5TH, 2025 – 107.1 The Boss New Jersey is proud to present the 8th Annual Mistletoe Rock Radiothon, a special live broadcast & auction fundraiser event benefiting JBJ Soul Kitchen, a community restaurant initiative run by the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation. JBJ Soul Kitchen seeks to provide locally sourced, 3-course meals to both paying and in-need customers in a warm and welcoming restaurant setting.
Since opening, the organization has strived to address food insecurity by serving over 231,000 meals with their unique “pay-it-forward” model, where visitors may make a suggested donation for their meal and opt to provide an additional donation to help provide meals for those who are unable to donate. All visitors are welcome despite their ability to donate.
This year’s Radiothon will feature simultaneous live broadcasts from Freehold Raceway Mall, JBJ Soul Kitchen’s Red Bank and Toms River locations, and the 107.1 The Boss studio in Neptune, NJ. It will feature special guest donors, celebrity interviews, and exclusive all day restaurant donation perks at both JBJ Soul Kitchen locations.
On-air personalities from 107.1 The Boss including Greg T & Rochelle Gagnon, Michele Amabile, Cane Peterson, Tom Cunningham, Joe Nolan, Valerie Seagraves, Ralphie Aversa, Ross Brittain, Kermit and special guest appearances and interviews from Jon Bon Jovi, Dorothea Bongiovi, and JBJ Soul Kitchen representatives and clients.
SummitMedia Knoxville Presents 'The 2nd Annual 'Tots Holiday Toy Drive'
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 5TH, 2025 – SummitMedia Knoxville has teamed with U.S. Marine Corps Reserve to host the 2nd Annual 24-Hour Toys for Tots Holiday Toy Drive, taking place Friday–Sunday, December 5–7. The event will run 10:00am–6:00pm each day with SummitMedia’s Star 102.1, 100.3 The Wolf, Hot 104.5, and Classic Rock 93.1 on site. SummitMedia’s on-air personalities will be broadcasting live from the toy drive to rally support and encourage donations.
“Partnering with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and Walmart for our 2nd Annual 24-Hour Toys for Tots Holiday Toy Drive reminds us what local radio does best—bring people together for a greater purpose,” said A.J., Senior Vice President of Programming for SummitMedia Knoxville. “Our stations and on-air teams are proud to stand with our listeners to help ensure children across Knoxville and East Tennessee experience the joy and hope they deserve this holiday season.”
“This event truly reflects the spirit of our community,” said Kelsey Gresham, Market President for SummitMedia Knoxville. “With the help of partners like Harper Auto Square and Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, Knoxville’s generosity shines even brighter. When our community rallies together, we make a powerful impact, and we’re honored to support families and help make this holiday season brighter for every child in need.”
Tom Hall To Step Down From Daily Host Role To Become WYPR Baltimore's Senior News Analyst
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 5TH, 2025 – WYPR 88.1 FM, a service of Baltimore Public Media, announces that longtime Midday host Tom Hall will step down from the daily host role in early 2026 and transition into a new role as WYPR’s Senior News Analyst. Hall will continue to contribute interviews, analysis, and reporting across the station’s news and public affairs programming.
Hall joined WYPR in 2003 and quickly became one of the station’s most recognizable and trusted voices. Over more than two decades, he grew from a cultural contributor and program host into the guiding force behind Midday, shaping it into one of Maryland’s most respected public affairs programs. Under his leadership, Midday has upheld a long tradition of thoughtful, community-centered journalism, including earning a Regional Edward R. Murrow Award in 2020.
Beginning in January 2026, Hall will move to a three-day hosting schedule (Tuesday–Thursday) as part of a planned transition while WYPR conducts a search for the show’s next full-time host. When the new host is chosen, Hall will shift fully into his new role, contributing interviews, features, and essays and spearheading special projects. “It has been my honor and privilege to host Midday for the past 10 years, to be the steward of this storied show, and to be in conversation with a great community of engaged listeners who share an interest in exploring new ideas and solutions to the challenges we face,” said Hall.
BFOA: Be A Beacon Of Hope For Your Colleagues In Need This Holiday Season
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 8TH, 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
Miguel & Holly Returning Home To Tampa Bay For Mornings On iHeart's Mix 100.7
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 4TH, 2025 – iHeartMedia Tampa Bay’s Mix 100.7 announced today the return of the popular “The Miguel & Holly Show,” effective Monday January 5, 2026. The show will broadcast weekdays from 6 a.m.-10 a.m. The Miguel & Holly Show” was one of Tampa Bay’s leading shows from 2015 to 2022. After a successful three-year run in Charlotte, NC, the fan-favorite duo is returning home to Tampa Bay.
“I am thrilled to welcome Miguel and Holly back to Tampa Bay mornings on Mix 100.7,” said Tommy Chuck, Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia Tampa Bay. “Their energy, authenticity and deep connection to this community is exactly what our listeners love. It feels like welcoming old friends back home — and we’re excited for them to kick off each morning with laughter, real conversation, and a great variety of music!”
“Tampa Bay made me who I am and returning with Holly truly feels like a homecoming,” said Miguel. “We’re excited to be back, and I can’t wait to reconnect with our listeners every morning.”
“I’m thrilled to be back in Tampa Bay, the place my family calls home, and even more excited to be back in the studio with Miguel,” said Holly. “We’re ready to share more laughter, fun and meaningful moments with this amazing community!” Miguel & Holly are represented by Heather Cohen of The Weiss Agency.
EDISON: Perceptions Of TikTok Are Mainly Positive Although Many Are Trying To Decrease Usage
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 4TH, 2025 – Edison Research unveiled the results of a new research effort called The Infinite Scroll: A TikTok Reporting a webinar hosted by Alex Bargiacchi, Senior Research Director, and Salma Aly, Associate Research Director.
According to the study, 29% of those age 13+ in the U.S. use TikTok daily, 10% use TikTok once or twice a week; 8% use it once or twice a month.
Key findings among U.S. weekly TikTok users age 13+ include:
- Perceptions of TikTok are very positive among weekly users: 75% say they feel “entertained” when using the app, 48% say they feel “happy,” 41% say they feel “relaxed.” Thirty-six percent say they feel “connected” when using TikTok
- TikTok is a platform for discovery: 64% have used TikTok to discover new music; 47% have used the platform to discover new podcasts, and 30% have used it to discover new audiobooks. Younger users, age 13-24, are more likely than the broader weekly audience to use TikTok for discovery in all three of these categories.
- Weekly TikTok Users 13+ are more likely to be younger and more diverse than the general U.S. population: 34% are age13-24 compared with 20% of the general population; 43% are age 25-44, compared with 30% of the general population; 23% are age 45+ compared with 50% of the general population. Seventeen percent of weekly TikTok users are Black or African American compared with 11% of the population, and 22% are Hispanic or Latino compared with 15% of the population.
- 42% of weekly TikTok users age 13+ think they spend too much time using the platform, and 34% of weekly TikTok users age 13+ have tried to stop or limit their usage of the platform. Younger users, age 13-24, are more likely to think they spend too much time on TikTok and are more likely to have tried to limit usage.
“TikTok demands attention as a discovery platform for audio content. If you have music, a podcast, or even an audiobook you want to promote, you must have a TikTok presence and strategy,” noted Bargiacchi.
Added Aly, “TikTok isn’t just a Gen Z thing anymore. People of all ages are showing up, connecting, and building real communities on the platform. And you can watch it in real time: a song starts trending, a podcast picks up a whole new wave of listeners, and a film clip turns into a full-on cultural moment.” See Report HERE
Power 105.1 Taps DJ Prostyle As APD; Symantha Wilson Rises To MD And Producer For 'The Breakfast Club'
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 4TH, 2025 – HeartMedia’s Power 105.1, New York announced two significant leadership promotions. Alexander Santelises, known on-air as DJ Prostyle, has been named Assistant Program Director, and Symantha Wilson has been promoted to Music Director for Power 105.1 and Producer for “The Breakfast Club,” effective immediately. Both will work closely with the station’s leadership team, including Thea Mitchem, Executive Vice President of Programming, and Eddie Fennell, Assistant Program Director and Executive Producer for “The Breakfast Club.” Prostyle will also continue his role as Evening Air Talent on iHeartMedia New York’s 103.5 KTU.
“I’m incredibly honored and thrilled to step into this next chapter of my career as APD at Power 105.1,” said DJ Prostyle. “This station has been a defining voice in Hip-Hop, and I’m excited for the opportunity to help shape its next era alongside the best in the business. Thank you, Thea, for this incredible opportunity. I’m happy to be back—let’s go!”
“Stepping into these roles with The Breakfast Club and Music Director at Power 105.1 feels like a full-circle moment,” said Symantha Wilson. “This station shaped my earliest years, so joining Thea Mitchem, Eddie Fennell and Prostyle on the leadership team is an honor.”
“Prostyle and Symantha have truly earned these promotions through their hard work, creativity and dedication to the Power 105.1 brand,” said Thea Mitchem, EVP of Programming. “Both bring an unmatched passion for music and a deep understanding of how to engage listeners and grow audiences in today’s competitive landscape. Their leadership will be instrumental as we continue to elevate Power 105.1 and deliver the authentic experiences our listeners expect.”
WWO Scores Savannah Bananas' Drake C. Toll To Host Mornings On New Sports Talk Lineup
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 4TH, 2025 – Cumulus Media’s Westwood One announced the launch of a new morning show hosted by Drake C. Toll, weekdays from 6:00 – 9:00 AM.
Toll began his media career in Vilonia, Arkansas as a founder of EagleVision, one of Arkansas’ premiere sports networks, named 2019 Arkansas Sports Network of the Year. While attending Baylor University, Toll furthered his media career at SicEm365, later moving to Sports Illustrated’s Baylor Bears site. Toll will continue to provide play-by-play and broadcast entertainment for the Savannah Bananas.
"Westwood One is the gold standard in audio, and it’s an honor to join a brand creatively steeped in sports storytelling. Not unlike the Savannah Bananas, I’m prepared to push the limits of sports talk,” said Toll. "I’ll deliver for Jimmy in Tucson, Arizona just as much as Joe in Marshall, Texas. And for every groundbreaking Los Angeles Lakers trade, there’s a Boston College linebacker who survived cancer. You’ll hear the same fire and heart for each. We’re going to create something special, I promise you that."
"Drake represents exactly what we’re building—a modern, interactive sports experience that is driven by personalities and fueled by fans—programming that breaks away from the predictable and formulaic” said Bruce Gilbert, Senior Vice President, Sports/Content & Audience. "Drake’s ability to entertain, connect, and innovate makes him the ideal voice for mornings on Westwood One.”
NAB Announces 2026 Crystal Radio Award Finalists
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 4TH, 2025 – The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) today announced the 50 finalists for the 2026 NAB Crystal Radio Awards. Since 1987, these awards have honored radio stations for their outstanding community service efforts, from radiothons for their local children’s hospitals and support for veterans to food drives after severe weather events.
Ten Crystal Radio Award winners will be chosen from the finalists by a panel of judges representing the broadcast industry, community service organizations and public relations firms. The awards will be presented during a special ceremony at the NAB State Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., on March 3, 2026.
See all the 2026 Crystal Radio Awards finalists HERE
Connoisseur Media Brings Alternative Back To San Antonio With 103.3 The APP
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 4TH, 2025 – Connoisseur Media is turning the volume all the way up with the launch of 103.3 The APP, bringing alternative radio back to San Antonio for the first time in nearly a decade. Just launched Monday, December 1, the station is San Antonio’s only alternative radio destination, delivering more than 35 years of iconic and influential music from the genre.
Broadcasting from the historic Tower of the Americas, 103.3 The APP complements its FM presence with the station new companion mobile app, available now in both the Apple App Store and Google Play, offering listeners a seamless digital experience. San Antonio native DJ Mighty Iris joins the lineup as afternoon drive host from 3–7 p.m., marking her return to local airwaves.
“I'm honestly still in shock and honored that I will soon be able to return to the S.A. airwaves and be part of someone's drive home,” said Iris. “We all love this station because it's different. Alternative music has so many sounds and offshoots, it doesn't fit into one box. You can hear anything from The Strokes to The Clash to R.E.M. Alternative music is timeless, and I'm beyond excited to reunite with 103.3 The APP!,” said Program Director Greg Martin.
“With the launch of 101.5 The Fridge in Dayton, the reimaging of 106.3 The Core in Saginaw, our heritage ALT properties in Columbia and Louisville, and now 103.3 The APP in San Antonio, Connoisseur Media is making a strong commitment to the health and future of alternative music,” said Keith Dakin, Vice President of Programming. “With an unbelievable catalog of songs plus the excitement around current artists like Tame Impala, Sombr, Turnstile, and Royal Otis, it is a great time to be in the alt business.”
Registration Now Open For Jacobs Media And Quu's Techsurvey 2026
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 4TH, 2025 – Jacobs Media and Quu announced that registration is now open for commercial radio stations in the U.S. and Canada to participate in Techsurvey 2026. The 2025 survey was fielded this past January and February with 500 participating radio stations across North America.
Eight different formats were represented among a diverse group of broadcasting companies, yielding more than 24,000 respondents to radio’s largest research survey devoted to media and technology. “For more than two decades, Techsurvey has been the largest and most important survey in commercial radio. In this year’s highly anticipated Techsurvey 2026, we’ll have new trending data, especially important to better understand massive shifts in broadcast and digital consumption patterns amidst the rapidly evolving media landscape.”
“Techsurvey has long been the gold standard for understanding the trends and technologies shaping radio’s future,” said Steve Newberry, CEO of Quu. “Jacobs Media and Quu share a deep commitment to giving broadcasters meaningful insights that shine a light on radio’s path forward. We could not be more enthused to partner with Fred and Paul and bring this important research to our industry.”
This new study will field beginning in January. Stations have until Friday, December 19th to sign up. All information about timetables, fees, logistics, and registration are here: https://jacobsmedia.com/register-techsurvey-2026/
Report: Craig Carton Finalizing Deal For Return To Afternoon Drive On Audacy's WFAN
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 2ND, 2025 – Longtime New York personality Craig Carton is reportedly finalizing a deal to take over afternoons on WFAN beginning next year, reported The Athletic on Tuesday. This will mark Carton’s third stint with the station and second as the host of the afternoon slot. The paper reports the current drive-time show, featuring Evan Roberts and Tiki Barber, will shift to the 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. midday slot. Carton will apparently have a new partner, with overnight host Chris McMonigle considered the leading candidate. Carton will continue his mid-morning podcast with Fox’s Red Seat Ventures.
Carton has a long history with Audacy New York President Chris Oliviero, who oversees WFAN, and has been instrumental in all three of Carton’s hirings by the outlet. Come January, WFAN’s lineup will feature Boomer Esiason and Gregg Giannotti in the morning, followed by “Evan & Tiki” and leading into Carton’s show.
Carton became Esiason’s morning co-host following Don Imus’ exit in 2007. This led to Esiason and Carton’s successful decade-long run witch ended in 2017. Oliviero later rehired Carton to co-host afternoons with Roberts. Two years ago, FS1 gave him a multi-million dollar TV deal which since ended.
Jeff Warshaw, Veronica Rodriguez And Matt Schnaars Appointed To NAB Board of Directors
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 2ND, 2025 – Jeff Warshaw, Veronica Rodriguez and Matt Schnaars have been appointed to the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Board of Directors to fill recently vacated seats. Warshaw joins the radio board, representing District 24 replacing Bob Proffitt. Rodriguez and Schnaars join the television board, filling the seats previously held by Pilar Ramos (TelevisaUnivision) and Phil Tahtakran (NBCUniversal), respectively. The appointments, made in accordance with NAB bylaws, are effective immediately.
Jeff Warshaw is the founder and CEO of Connoisseur Media, one of the nation’s largest radio companies. Following its 2025 acquisition of Alpha Media Group, Connoisseur now operates more than 200 stations across markets covering roughly 20% of the U.S. Warshaw began his career at the Wharton School of Business, building his first station as a student, and has since led two successful broadcast companies. He is chairman of the Nielsen Audio Advisory Council and the outgoing chair of the Radio Advertising Bureau board.
Veronica Rodriguez serves as executive vice president, co-general counsel and corporate secretary for TelevisaUnivision, Inc., the world’s leading Spanish-language media and content company. She played a key role in the company’s transformative merger and is a trusted member of its executive leadership team.
Matt Schnaars is president of Platform Distribution and Partnerships for NBCUniversal, where he leads distribution strategy for the company’s linear and streaming services across multiple platforms. Schnaars previously served as president of NBCUniversal Content Distribution. He also held leadership roles at The Walt Disney Company in national accounts for ESPN and Disney networks. Photo composite - background Capital Riverfront
FOX Sports Radio's Rob Parker Named NSMA 2026 Hall of Fame Sportswriter Finalist
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 3RD, 2025 – FOX Sports Radio’s Rob Parker—co-host of The Odd Couple with Rob Parker & Kelvin Washington, MLB Network analyst, and founder/editor of MLBbro.com— has been named a 2026 National Sports Media Association (NSMA) Hall of Fame Sportswriter (Living category) finalist. Forty all-time greats are finalists for the 2026 NSMA Hall of Fame class across several categories. The results are from month-long nomination balloting by NSMA members.
“It’s an absolute honor to be considered with so many journalism heavyweights,” shared Parker. Winners will be notified the first week of January, and the awards will be presented during the NSMA’s 66th Awards Weekend & National Convention, June 28-29, 2026, at Grandover Resort & Spa – a Wyndham Grand hotel – in Greensboro, N.C.
More information on the 2026 NSMA Hall of Fame can be found HERE. This is the latest accolade for Parker, who was inducted into the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Hall of Fame in 2023. His alma mater, Southern Connecticut State University, also recently honored him with a press box dedication at Jess Dow Field.
Scott McCarthy Joins Sealx As Chief Executive Officer
Will Continue to Serve Workhouse Media as Special Advisor for Sports
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 3RD, 2025 – Paul B. Anderson, Principal & CEO of talent and content management company Workhouse Media, announced today that Scott McCarthy, currently President/Workhouse Sports, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of rapidly-growing SealX, LLC by its Board of Directors, of which Anderson is Executive Chairman, effective December 15. McCarthy, who will relocate to Washington State from Los Angeles, will continue to serve Workhouse Media as special advisor for sports.
McCarthy, who joined Workhouse Media in March 2024, has an extensive and varied background, including 7 years in investment banking and venture capital and more than 25 years as an executive in audio, television, print, gaming, and digital. He was a senior executive at ESPN from 2011 to 2023, most recently serving as Vice President, ESPN Audio.
“What started with an Uber ride ten years ago and developed into a business partnership with Jaz Singh, Gurpreet Singh, and Sonia Kaur is now SealX,” said Anderson. “Today, SealX employs nearly 200 people, continues to experience rapid, double-digit growth with strong EBITDA, and has developed a smart strategic vision for explosive growth. The board of directors recently determined that it was time to hire a CEO to help us achieve our vision, and we are confident that Scott will do an outstanding job of executing our strategic plan and leading our next phase of growth and beyond.”
“I could not be more excited or honored to join SealX as its CEO,” said McCarthy. “I am very grateful to Paul, Jaz, Gurpreet and Sonia for this amazing opportunity. What they have already built at SealX is the very definition of the American dream – starting from nothing, developing a very successful and profitable business with strong traction in the Pacific Northwest, and employing hundreds of people. I look forward to helping the SealX team expand aggressively over the coming years.”
PrimoHoagies And Q102’s Buster Join For Annual PrimoCares Gift Drive
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 3RD, 2025 – Q102, Philadelphia joins PrimoHoagies for its 12th Annual PrimoCares Holiday Gift Drive. This year, Q102’s Buster will join in the fun, helping load gifts and share the excitement as teams prepare to deliver holiday joy to local children and families. The Gift Drive takes place Friday, December 5th from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. at PrimoHoagies Franchising in Westville, NJ.
Each year, PrimoHoagies franchise locations “adopt” one or more local children for the holidays through trusted community partners. Customers can contribute by rounding up their orders to the nearest dollar in-store, online, or on PrimoHoagies with 100% of proceeds going directly toward fulfilling each child’s wish list. After all donations are collected, franchisees shop for gifts and deliver them to the corporate office by December 5th for distribution. The giving doesn’t stop there—on December 19th, PrimoHoagies employees will also volunteer at a local elementary school, serving lunch and celebrating with students as part of the company’s ongoing community outreach.
“It’s incredible to see how much love and generosity goes into this event,” said Q102 Philly air personality Buster. “Being part of the PrimoCares Gift Drive reminds me what the holidays are all about—community, kindness, and showing up for kids who deserve to feel special this time of year.”
35th Annual 'Clark’s Christmas Kids' Brings Holiday Cheer to Nearly 9,000 Georgia Foster Children
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 3RD, 2025 – 95.5 WSB (WSB-AM/WSBB-FM Atlanta, GA) proudly announces the 35th annual Clark’s Christmas Kids, a beloved Georgia holiday tradition dedicated to fulfilling the Christmas wishes of children in foster care. This year, the program aims to provide over 25,000 gifts to nearly 9,000 foster children across the state.
For 35 years, Clark’s Christmas Kids has united the community in the spirit of giving. The initiative is a partnership between 95.5 WSB, Clark.com, the Georgia Department of Human Services Division of Family & Children Services (DFCS), the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Georgia, and Walmart. Together, they work to ensure that every child in Georgia’s foster care system wakes up to at least one gift on Christmas morning.
“I am so excited for our 35th year of Clark's Christmas Kids,” said Clark Howard. “I could have never imagined that our generous WSB listeners would take care of over 300,000 children in foster care donating $50 million plus in toys and cash since 1991.” Join us in making Christmas morning brighter for children who need it most. Visit ClarksChristmasKids.com to donate or learn more.
Picklejar Up All Night Expands To 80+ LRN Stations
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 3RD, 2025 – PickleJar Entertainment Group announced a significant nationwide expansion for its flagship Country radio program, PickleJar Up All Night, available weeknights 7PM–Midnight or Midnight-06am ET across more than 80 Local Radio Networks (LRN) affiliates.
Hosted from Nashville by Katie Cook and Scott Gaines, PickleJar Up All Night blends emerging artist discovery, fan-driven interaction, exclusive interviews, and authentic Nashville storytelling into a nightly destination for Country music culture. The affiliate distribution agreement accelerates PickleJar’s media footprint while aligning affiliate broadcasters with scalable, recurring revenue streams that tie venue technology and content syndication together for the first time in broadcast radio.
“This partnership is more than expanded airtime — it’s expanded access,” said Kristian Barowsky, President and Co-Founder of PickleJar Entertainment Group. “PickleJar Up All Night was built to champion new voices in Country music. Reaching millions of new listeners gives us the opportunity to showcase talent on a national stage while strengthening VMS distribution in small and mid-sized markets. We are proud to grow this show, this platform, and the communities of artists who deserve to be heard.”
To learn more about LRN, For syndication inquiries, please contact: Kristian Barowsky – kristian@picklejar.com Gator Michaels – gator@picklejar.com or Donna Halverson - donna@localradionetworks.com, 214-307-5086
iHeart's EVP of Programming, Atlanta, Jill Strada, Expands Duties With PD Stripes At 103.5 The Beat Miami
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 2ND, 2025 – While we await an official release, congratulations are in order for Jill Strada, EVP of Programming for iHeartMedia Atlanta who adds PD stripes for WMIB 103.5 The Beat, in her former home of Miami.
Strada posted on social: "Miami! I’m excited to be back! While continuing to lead the charge at iHeart Atlanta, I’m now stepping in as Program Director for 103.5 THE BEAT Miami. I'm ready to elevate the brand and my team to new and unstoppable levels! This is a homecoming with purpose — full circle energy in every way. I’m here for it… and I’m grateful for it all."
Strada spent several years in Miami at WFLC/HITS 97.3 and WPOW/Power 96, She also handled programming posts at WHQT/Hot 97 New York.
Steve Davis Is Back On The Air In Green Bay At WNCY-FM
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 2ND, 2025 – longtime Green Bay host Steve Davis has returned to the air in Green Bay for the noon to 2-pm slot on Y100 (WNCY-FM).
According to The Green Bay Press, the opportunity to put the headphones back on comes nearly a year to the day since his 25-year career at Star 98 (WQLH-FM) came to an end when he and his co-host Susan Kennedy were let go amid layoffs.
The person who hired him all those years ago, first at 99 Country and then to do nights at Y100, is the same person who invited him back: Randy “Shotgun” Shannon, the station’s morning show host and newly announced brand manager. He’s known Davis since he was just out of Denmark High School. “It’s just great to have a well familiar face and voice of northeast Wisconsin to be part of the new Shotgun era of Y100,” Shannon said.
Davis didn’t initially think he would miss radio after the way things ended at Star 98. “I was pretty soured by the whole experience,” he said. “I worked there for 25 years and within a 4 or 5-minute conversation, it was over. ... That was tough.” Always a country music fan at heart, he’s eager to be back in the genre and to work again with Shannon.
100.7 WHUD Radiothon Raises $241,164 For Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 2ND, 2025 – 100.7 WHUD Radiothon for Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, a member of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth), raised an extraordinary $241,164 to support life-saving care for children and families beyond Westchester to national wide critical care. This year’s total brings WHUD’s cumulative support for the hospital to more than $6.5 million over two decades—a powerful testament to the generosity, compassion, and unity of our listeners, sponsors, and community partners.
“Every year, our listeners and advertising partners show up in a remarkable way,” said WHUD’s Brand Manager Scotty Mac. “The Radiothon is more than a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of hope, healing, and the strength of families across the Hudson Valley. The fact that our community has helped raise more than $6.5 million over two decades speaks volumes about how much people care about ensuring children get the life-saving care they deserve.”
The 100.7 WHUD Radiothon remains of the region’s most meaningful traditions, reinforcing what our community stands for: compassion, commitment, and coming together to lift up families in need. WHUD’s Jimmy Lyles and WMC’s Irene Tsetsekos - shown above.
Albany Broadcasting Strengthens Local Support Across the Capital Region This Holiday Season
JOCKLINE, DECEMBER 2ND, 2025 – As the Capital Region steps into the holiday season, Albany Broadcasting continues to demonstrate its strong commitment to the community. Across its family of stations — B95.5 (WYJB-FM), FLY92.3 (WFLY-FM), 100.9/107.1 The Cat (WKLI-FM/WKBE-FM), JAMZ 96.3 (WAJZ-FM), MAGIC 100.5FM/590AM (WROW-AM/WENU-AM), and BIG COUNTRY 104.9/97.9 (WINU-FM/WMML-AM) — listeners, partners, and staff are joining forces to support local causes.
On Friday, November 21, Albany Broadcasting partnered with DeNooyer Chevrolet to host Feed the Need, a large-scale food and fundraising drive benefiting the Regional Food Bank and the United Way of the Greater Capital Region. In addition, WYJB, WKLI/WKBE, and WFLY is partnering with Stewart’s Shops for their annual Holiday Match program, which kicked off on Thanksgiving Day. This campaign raises funds for local children’s charities, and in the first four days alone, it has already raised $100,000.
Meanwhile, WROW/WENU Magic 590AM and 100.5FM launched their annual holiday hunger appeal to benefit the Regional Food Bank, helping feed neighbors in need throughout the season. Albany Broadcasting also supported the Special Olympics Polar Plunge throughout October and November. B95.5 and 100.9/107.1. The Special Olympics Polar Plunge, held on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Shepard Park Beach in Lake George, ultimately raised over $300,000 for Special Olympics New York. Through these initiatives, Albany Broadcasting continues to strengthen the Capital Region by fostering community partnerships, engaging listeners, and supporting vital charitable programs throughout the holiday season.
NRG To Transfer Six Stations In Nebraska To Usher
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 26TH, 2025 – According to a release, a contract has been signed and an application is being filed with the FCC for the transfer of KGFW-AM, KQKY-FM, KRNY-FM, and K241CN-FX, Kearney, NE; KROR-FM, Hastings, NE; and KSYZ-FM, Grand Island, NE from NRG Media, LLC to Usher Media, L.L.C. The seller, NRG Media, LLC, is an Iowa-based company headed by Mary Quass. NRG owns more than 30 other radio stations across Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska, and Wisconsin.
NRG’s CEO, Mary Quass said, “We’re pleased to announce the sale of our 6 radio stations in Central Nebraska to Usher Media LLC, a respected local broadcaster. It’s been a privilege to serve this community with an exceptional team whose passion and commitment have made these stations a vital voice in the Kearney, Hastings and Grand Island markets. We are confident that Usher Media will build on that foundation and continue to serve listeners, advertisers, and the community with excellence.”
The buyer, Usher Media, L.L.C., is a Nebraska-based company headed by Alan Usher. Usher said in part: “We are excited to announce the acquisition of six radio stations in Central Nebraska. As a locally owned and operated organization, raised in the Tri-Cities, this strategic move underscores our commitment to expanding our media presence while staying deeply connected to our roots."
Urban One Announces Retirement of Baltimore GM Howard Mazer; Dave Willner Named Successor
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 26TH, 2025 – Urban One, Inc.’s Audio Division announced that longtime General Manager Howard Mazer (R) will retire at the end of the year after more than thirty years of dedicated service to the company. Mazer began his radio career in 1981 as the General Sales Manager in the Baltimore market and was promoted to General Manager in 1992. He joined Urban One in 1994 and continued his leadership of the Baltimore station group.
“For more than three decades, Howard has been a steady, visionary leader for our Baltimore cluster,” said Eddie Harrell, Co-President, Audio Division. “His commitment to excellence, his instinct for developing talent, and his deep understanding of this market have strengthened our stations and helped shape the culture of our entire audio division.”
With Mazer’s retirement, Urban One has promoted Dave Willner (L), currently Director of Sales for the Baltimore market, to General Manager, effective January 1, 2026. Willner began his career in radio in promotions and took on roles in traffic and on-air duties. He transitioned to Urban One in 1999 as an Account Executive and progressed quickly to the roles of National Sales Manager, General Sales Manager and ultimately, Director of Sales for the Baltimore market. Mazer will work closely with Willner through the end of the year to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.
102.3 WBAB Long Island To Continue Thanksgiving Tradition By Airing 'Alice’s Restaurant' In Its Entirety
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 26TH, 2025 – 102.3 WBAB Long Island will continue with one of its most beloved holiday traditions, the annual Thanksgiving Day broadcast of Arlo Guthrie’s iconic 18-minute and 34-second, “Alice’s Restaurant,” in its entirety. Hosted by WBAB’s Rocky, this heritage tradition has become a staple for generations of Long Islanders. Families across Long Island are invited to gather around the radio and join WBAB for Breakfast and Lunch at “Alice’s Restaurant”—a festive, feel-good kickoff to Thanksgiving Day.
“For decades, Long Islanders have made WBAB part of their Thanksgiving tradition, and ‘Alice’s Restaurant’ remains one of the most anticipated broadcasts of the year,” said Chris Lloyd, Director of Operations, Branding and Programming for CMG Long Island. “We love being part of our listeners’ holiday celebrations, and we’re excited to bring this classic back once again.”
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‘Dude, Call The Police’: Body Found in Frederick MD After Man Calls Into 'Elliot In The Morning Show'
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 24TH, 2025 – A man called into iHeart DC 101.1’s 'Elliot in the Morning show and said he saw a dead body weeks earlier in Frederick, Maryland. According to NBC4 Wash., a man who called himself 'Joseph' called into the show on Friday and launched into a story about being out “exploring nature.” “Look what I came upon,” the caller said. “Dude, you found a dead body?” Elliot asked. “Yes,” the caller replies. “Dude, call the police!” the host repeatedly urges him.
The caller said he saw the body in a “tent city” in Frederick and it remained there “as of, whatever, 18 days ago.” Later Friday, the Frederick Police Department said they were aware of information shared on a radio show about someone found dead in a wooded area off East Street and Carroll Creek Crossing. Detectives responded and found someone dead. An investigation is underway. The name of the person who died was not immediately released, nor was information on how they may have died. Bottom Photo/Radio Hall of Fame
iHeart Makes 'Guaranteed Human' A Core Part Of Its Brand; Keeping Everything 'Real And Authentic'
Encourages Use of AI powered tools such workflow automation, show prep, editing and more
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 26TH, 2025 – iHeartRadio’s chief programming officer and president, Tom Poleman, sent a memo to its staff on Friday saying that iHeart doesn’t and won’t use AI-generated personalities or “play AI music that features synthetic vocalists pretending to be human." He wrote in part: 'Team: A few weeks ago, I shared that iHeart is one of the last truly human entertainment sources and our listeners come to us for companionship, connection, and authenticity — something AI can’t replicate. We’re Guaranteed Human. We don’t use AI-generated personalities. We don’t play AI music that features synthetic vocalists pretending to be human. And the podcasts we publish are also Guaranteed Human. Thank you for leaning into our commitment to keep everything we do real and authentic. That’s what makes us special.
In explaing why this matters so much; Poleman points to research that says: • 70% of consumers say they use AI as a tool, yet 90% want their media to be from real humans. • 92% use social media, but 2/3 say it makesing them feel worse and more disconnected. • 92% say nothing can replace human connection — up from 76% in 2016. • 9 in 10 say human trust can’t be replicated with AI."
Poleman clarifies: "To be clear, we do encourage the use of AI powered productivity and distribution tools that help scale our business operations - such as scheduling, audience insights, data analysis, workflow automation, show prep, editing and organization. Those tools help us reach more people efficiently, while preserving the human creativity and authenticity that define our brand. We talk to our listeners constantly, and they tell us they are also using AI as a tool, but they tell us there’s a limit.
"The bottom line is our research," says Poleman which tells us that 96% of consumers think “Guaranteed Human” content is appealing. So, we’re leaning in. Thank you for keeping it real and making “Guaranteed Human” something that our audience hears and feels every day. Sometimes you have to pick a side — we’re on the side of humans."
Tracy Johnson: 'Stop Trying To Be An Expert. Try Harder To Be Entertaining'
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 24TH, 2025 – In his latest post at Tracy Johnson's Insiders Radio Network, he writes that listeners are not grading you on expertise, but rather on your ability to hold their attention. "Unless you work on a station where your job is to be an authority (news stations or a highly specialized format or show), there’s no need to validate your credentials every time you open the mic," says Johnson. "Yet personalities burn huge amounts of airtime trying to justify why they are talking about a story.
"You’ve heard it. The qualifiers, disclaimers, and endless, usually unnecessary background. It is defensive broadcasting," says Johnson. "You don’t have to establish credibility to be entertaining, so stop trying to be an expert. The vast majority of performers are entertainers, and audiences simply want to feel something. That should shape how you select, frame, and perform every story."
"Stop Trying To Be An Expert," instructs Johnson. "There’s no time or patience for B-level content. You need to make every story count. You are not briefing the United Nations, so use each story as a vehicle to make the audience smile, laugh, or react. The entertainment is never in the content itself; it is in what you do with it. A story is raw material. The narrative should not end with the facts; it should begin there."
But here's the good news, adds Johnson: "There is no shortage of raw material. There has never been more content available, more bizarre headlines, more human moments, more pop culture absurdity. Be selective and filter every possible story through three performance criteria. Read complete article HERE
Over 1,007,000 Meals Served In FM99 & 106.9 The Fox's Annual Mayflower Marathon Food Drive
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 24TH, 2025 – 1,007,000 meals (and counting) will be served thanks to donations made at the FM99 & 106.9 The Fox 29th Annual Mayflower Marathon Food Drive. The annual food drive took place simultaneously at five locations from 5:30am on Friday, 11/21 until 3pm on Sunday, 11/23.
Carol Commander, General Manager of Hampton Roads Media Group (WNOR and WAFX): “The need has never been greater, and we are deeply grateful to our incredible community for stepping up. It’s been inspiring to witness such an outpouring of generosity from so many friends and neighbors—THANK YOU! Thanks to your support, the shelves at local foodbanks are now overflowing. Together, the FM99 and 106.9 The Fox 29th Annual Mayflower Marathon will provide more than 1,007,000 meals.”
“Year after year, the FM99 and 106.9 The Fox Mayflower Marathon shows what this community can accomplish together,” said Christopher Tan, President and CEO of the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore. “As many families continue to feel the strain of rising costs and limited resources, the generosity we saw this weekend ensures thousands will have what they need for a Thanksgiving meal. We’re deeply grateful to every donor, volunteer, and partner who made this possible, and especially to FM99 and 106.9 The Fox for continuing to power this tradition.”
Tony Randall Returns To Cumulus For Afternoon Drive At Kat Country 103 Stockton-Modesto
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 21ST, 2025 – Cumulus has tapped Tony Randall for Afternoon Drive KAT Country 103/KATM-FM in Stockton-Modesto, CA. Randall will debut on KAT Country 103 beginning Monday, December 1st, and can be heard weekdays from 2:00pm-7:00pm. His first show will air live on location at Walmart in Turlock, CA, where he and the KAT Country 103 team will be onsite collecting toy donations for Toys For Tots.
Randall was previously co-host of the nationally syndicated radio program, “The Tony & Kris Show,” a morning show that originated from its home station, KSON-FM in San Diego, CA. He has also been an on-air personality for Cumulus Media Country station WIVK-FM in Knoxville, TN. In his 31 years on-air, Randall has won multiple CMA and ACM Awards for Best Morning Show.
Andy Winford, Program Director, KAT Country 103/KATM-FM, said: "It’s a real win for Kat Country to have someone with Tony’s experience and skill on board and I can't wait to work with him!" Tony Randall commented: “My Country radio career has been full of highs and lows. Getting the opportunity to join the incredible team at Kat Country definitely falls into the ‘highs’ category. I’m beyond excited to rejoin the Cumulus family and return to California! And I'm so grateful to Andy Winford I'm going to buy him that pony he's been wanting.”
Preston & Steve’s 'Camp Out For Hunger' Raised Over 1.8 Million Lbs. of Food & $1,635,637 In Cash
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 21ST, 2025 – Beasley's 3.3 WMMR-FM announced that the 28th Annual Preston & Steve’s Camp Out for Hunger set a new record, collecting over 1.8 million pounds of food and $1,635,637 in cash to support individuals and families in need. Proceeds benefit Philabundance - the Delaware Valley’s largest hunger relief organization, which acquires, rescues, and distributes food to those in need while advocating for greater food access across the region.
This year’s totals included $350,000 donated by ACME shoppers, going to local hunger relief organizations including Philabundance, with register contributions continuing through Wednesday, November 26th. In addition, more than 500 donations were made in honor of legendary WMMR Midday Personality Pierre Robert, with hundreds more contributions coming from individuals and businesses through wmmr.com and via Text to Give.
From 6am on Monday, November 10th through 11am Friday, November 14th, 2025, morning hosts Preston Elliot and Steve Morrison camped out and broadcast live outside Xfinity Mobile Arena in South Philadelphia, rallying listeners and businesses from across the tri-state area to donate food and funds. “In the shadow of the unimaginable loss of our beloved Pierre Robert, The Preston & Steve Show, WMMR, all of our listeners, partners, clients and friends did something extraordinary,” said WMMR Program Director Chuck Damico. “This year’s Camp Out for Hunger will go down as one of the most difficult things we all ever had to do but also somehow one of the most magical - It doesn’t just take a village. It takes a whole city!”
100.7 The Wolf Raises $400,000 to Provide Service Dogs For Veterans in Seattle
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 21ST, 2025 – Audacy's 100.7 The Wolf (KKWF-FM) raised $400,000 during its 5th annual “Operation K9 Companion,” benefitting Northwest Battle Buddies. Northwest Battle Buddies gifts professionally trained service dogs to Veterans battling PTSD, helping them regain their freedom and independence. “Operation K9 Companion” was led by “The Morning Wolfpack with Matt McAllister,” and ran from November 10 to November 14. Throughout the week, the morning show shared powerful testimonials from veterans whose lives had been transformed by service dogs and encouraged listeners to make a donation. T
The fundraiser concluded on November 15 with a benefit concert featuring country star Chris Janson and an auction for a signed Johnny Cash guitar. “Supporting veterans is a cause that our morning show is deeply passionate about. We are thankful for these brave American heroes and recognize the struggles that often come following their service,” said McAllister. “We are so grateful to our incredible community for coming together to raise $400,000. Thanks to these generous donations, we provided life-changing service dogs to 16 Veterans at no cost.”
“There are no words to express the gratitude to 100.7 The Wolf, its entire team, all the constituents, listeners and business owners that were responsible for making this fundraiser the great success that it was,” said Shannon Walker, CEO, Northwest Battle Buddies. “The positive impact of the 16 American heroes receiving service dogs will be felt for generations. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
830 WCCO Raises Over $374,000 During 23rd 'Interrupt Homelessness' Event In Minneapolis
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 21ST, 2025 – Audacy's 830 WCCO (WCCO-AM) in Minneapolis, raised $374,607 during its 23rd annual “Interrupt Homelessness” radiothon, benefitting Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities. This brings the total amount raised to just shy of $5 million since the radiothon began in 2003. . “When Minnesota comes together, no one gets left behind. It’s a testament to our amazing fans and incredibly supportive partners at WCCO for lifting those in need through Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities,” said Brad Lane, Brand Manager, 830 WCCO.
“Today, we’re highlighting how our holistic services truly interrupt homelessness. I’m struck by how many of the men and women who shared their stories on the air did so because they want others to reach the same place they are now, sober, housed, employed and healing,” said Pam Stegora Axberg, Chief Executive Officer, Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities. “Their message to our community was clear: ‘Help make my story possible for someone else.’ And today, thousands of donors answered that call. Together, we are breaking the cycle of homelessness for our neighbors. That’s what makes a day like this so special.”
830 WCCO’s 23rd annual “Interrupt Homelessness” radiothon was broadcast live on November 18 inside the Mall of America Huntington Bank Rotunda.
Memorial Concert, 'A Show Of Life' To Be Held In Honor Of The Late 93.3 WMMR Host Pierre Robert
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 20TH, 2025 – Beasley's 93.3 WMMR has announced that a special memorial concert will be held in honor of the late legendary midday host, Pierre Robert next month at The Fillmore Philadelphia. For four decades, Pierre Robert’s passion for rock and roll filled the 93.3 WMMR airwaves and introduced generations of Philadelphians to the music that has shaped our world. So it became evident that the perfect way to celebrate the legendary man is with a live show.
WMMR posted on its website that On December 17, 2025, they’re taking over The Fillmore Philadelphia for “Pierre Robert: A Show of Life,” a concert created in the spirit of a man who has spent his life lifting other people up through music. The evening will be filled with people Pierre has loved, promoted, and believed in throughout the decades. Brent Smith and Zach Myers of Shinedown will bring their powerful harmonies and the heartfelt songwriting to the stage. Lzzy Hale and Joe Hottinger of Halestorm, two musicians who grew up listening to Pierre with honor the friend who championed their band from the earliest days.
Also performing is Ed Roland of Collective Soul, known for crafting the anthems with energy and optimism, will join the celebration as well. Philadelphia’s own Hooters will be there, carrying with them the spirit of a band that helped shape this city’s musical identity and celebrating the man who championed them from the beginning, plus others.
A portion of the proceeds from the concert will support MANNA, the Metropolitan Area Neighborhood Nutrition Alliance. This night is a celebration of the man who taught us to slow down, to listen closely, and to treat music as a sacred companion on the road of life. It is a thank you to Pierre Robert for every moment of joy and reflection he has shared with the WMMR family. Most of all, it is a reminder that the spirit of peace and love he carries so naturally continues to echo through the city he calls home. Photos/WMMR - Facebook
Edison: The Radio Receiver Remains The Dominant Device For Listening To AM/FM By 13+ In The U.S.
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 20TH, 2025 – According to Edison's latest Insights, it shares that listening to streamed audio content on phones, computers, smart speakers, and smart televisions now dominates the audio sphere. While AM/FM radio is available on all these digital devices, the radio receiver remains the dominant device the U.S. 13+ population uses to listen to AM/FM radio during an average day.
Back in 2015, 93% of time spent listening to AM/FM radio was done using a radio receiver. Smart speakers were just being released, and households were less likely to own smart TVs than they are now. Ten years later, the portion of AM/FM listening done over a traditional receiver has dropped to 87%. The mobile device and smart speaker have made small gains over the past ten years, chipping away at the radio receiver’s primacy. Broadcast radio companies have made efforts to embrace digital platforms and technologies, but the traditional radio receiver continues to dramatically outperform all other devices for radio listening.
Naturally, in-car listening is a very large portion of time spent with AM/FM, and listening in this environment is almost entirely on a traditional receiver. But even in other locations, radio listening is mostly happening to the ‘over-the-air' signal on receivers. Share of Ear® captures listening habits across platforms, devices, locations, and content types. Trending analyses like the one shown above are available for full subscribers.
The Record from Edison Research and Nielsen is a quarterly report card on how U.S. consumers spend their listening day, specifically focused on the adsupported audio environment. For Q3 2025, daily audio consumption of ALL audio among those ages 13+ totaled 3 hours and 53 minutes across ad-supported and ad-free platforms like radio, podcasts, streaming music services, and satellite radio. Ad-supported audio accounted for 64% of all listening in Q3 2025. In looking only at this ad supported audio universe, listeners age 13+ spent 62% of their daily time in the third quarter with radio, 20% with podcasts, 15% with streaming music and 3% with satellite radio.
Click here to see The Record for Q3 2025.
Study: 89% Say Absence Of A Radio In A New Car Would Probably Keep Them From Purchasing
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 20TH, 2025 – According to a new study by Critical Mass Insights shows that consumers overwhelmingly want access to AM/FM radio in their cars. The study found that 96 percent of Americans cite built-in AM/FM radio as important in a new car, and 98 percent say it’s important that radio is easy to find in cars. Across all demographics, consumers ages 18 to 74 broadly agree that radio access is key: Even among those who don’t listen to either AM or FM routinely, about 9 in 10 say it’s important to have it available in situations where they need it. These include severe weather events, natural disasters, man-made tragedies and other emergencies where 97 percent of Americans say it’s important to have access to live radio.
“The bottom line here is just how much people value having easy access to both AM and FM radio in their cars. Consumers want radio for a variety of different reasons that are largely unique to local radio -- everything from discovering what new music matters to weather updates, the latest sports reports and local news and events,” said Elizabeth Falke, Senior Vice President of Research for Critical Mass Insights. “This is largely due to the special connection on-air talent forms with listeners, as 9 in 10 Americans say having radio personalities easily available in their cars is important because it helps them feel less lonely.
For consumers who rely solely on the radio for their audio needs, the absence of a radio in their car would force them to subscribe to alternative methods and raise their daily costs. Overall, the research shows that losing built-in radio would greatly impact the purchasing decisions of a new vehicle with most consumers: 96 percent of Americans would miss the radio if it were removed from cars 89 percent of Americans say the absence of a radio in a new car would probably keep them from purchasing. "The ease and simplicity of radio is embedded in the lives of drivers consuming various forms of audio in their cars,” said Falke.
For Second Year In A Row, Sabrina Carpenter Is iHeartRadio's Most Listened To Artist In 2025
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 20TH, 2025 – It’s time for iHeartRewind – its annual list of iHeart’s most played artists and songs of the year! For the second year in a row, Sabrina Carpenter claimed the top artist spot, racking up more than 2.7 billion total audience spins (TAS). She was followed closely by SZA and Kendrick Lamar, while The Weeknd, Bruno Mars and Morgan Wallen each surpassed 2 billion TAS. Other artists who made the Top 10 included Lady Gaga, Benson Boone, Post Malone and Shaboozey.
Taking a look at specific songs, Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars’ “Die With A Smile” dominated the charts with over 1.1 billion TAS. Kendrick Lamar & SZA’s “Luther” and Alex Warren’s “Ordinary” also defined the year’s sound, showing just how powerful collaborations and breakout hits were in 2025. Across genres, pop fans tuned in the most for Sabrina Carpenter, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, The Weeknd, and SZA, while Morgan Wallen and Jelly Roll led country.
Hip-Hop was dominated by GloRilla and Kendrick Lamar; alternative fans gravitated toward Linkin Park and Green Day; and R&B listeners turned up the volume for Chris Brown and Usher.
iHeartRewind found this data by compiling total audience spins (TAS) and streams across iHeartRadio broadcast stations nationwide and on the iHeartRadio app. Check out the full lists below to see the top artists and songs, both overall and by genre. And keep an eye out for your personalized iHeartRewind, arriving in inboxes soon! SEE FULL LIST HERE - Lev Radin/Shutterstock
Hubbard Taps Tim Virgin For Afternoons At 97.1 The Drive Chicago; Janda Lane Shifts To Middays
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 19TH, 2025 – Hubbard Radio Chicago’s 97.1 The Drive (WDRV) Brand and Content Director, Keith Hastings, announced today the addition of Tim Virgin to the station's lineup. Virgin has been a defining voice on Chicago’s airwaves for decades. Known for his unmistakable voice, sharp wit, and deep love of rock, he has helped shape the city’s soundtrack and connect with generations of listeners.
“Tim is a multi-talented personality who will bring tremendous value to Driver Nation, our advertisers, and the community,” said Hastings. Virgin will now be heard in Afternoon Drive on both KSHE/St. Louis and Chicago’s 97.1 The Drive.
“A few months away was long enough to remind me exactly where I belong--on a legendary station in the city I love, talking about the music that raised me — ROCK! Huge thanks to Keith Hastings, Keith Lawless, and Greg Strassell for bringing me on board. CHICAGO ...Let’s get loud!” stated Virgin.
With Virgin’s move to Afternoon Drive, Janda Lane will shift to Middays and continue to host her weekly Behind The Song podcast, recognized with a Marconi from the National Association of Broadcasters and a Silver Dome from the Illinois Broadcasters Association as the 2025 Podcast of the Year.
Connoisseur Media Portland Announces A Series Of Leadership Promotions And Appointments
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 19TH, 2025 – Connoisseur Media today announced a series of strategic promotions and new appointments across its Portland radio properties, strengthening programming leadership and positioning the cluster for continued success and growth. Grant McHill has been promoted to Program Director for NewsRadio 101.1 FM KXL. “As someone who has worked at KXL for a decade, I appreciate and understand the station's importance to the community and its potential for growth in Portland and beyond,” McHill said. “I am thrilled, honored, and thankful for this opportunity. A huge thank you to Jeff Warshaw, Keith Dakin, Mark Handwerger, and Ross MacLeod for their confidence in me.”
Connoisseur Media also welcomes Kendall Stewart as Assistant Program Director for 101.9 KINK and Live 95.5. Stewart will additionally host middays on Live 95.5. Stewart most recently served as Assistant Program Director at The Current in Minneapolis–St. Paul. “I’m beyond thrilled to join the Connoisseur Media family and be part of the creative energy behind KINK and Live 95.5!” Stewart said. “I can’t wait to dive in and be part of the radio magic happening every day at these amazing stations. Portland, let’s go!”
At 98.7 The Bull, midday host Jamie Tanchyk expands his responsibilities, adding Music Director duties to his role. Additionally, Ross MacLeod, Operations Manager for Portland, will assume the added role of Program Director for the iconic Triple-A 101.9 KINK.
CPB Agrees To Fulfill $36 Million NPR Contract To Fund Satellite Distribution Service For Local Radio
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 18TH, 2025 – NPR and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) have reached a resolution concerning the disbursement of federal funds appropriated for interconnection services, leading to a joint stipulation in NPR's legal challenge to Executive Order 14290. In the November 17 stipulation, NPR and CPB agreed that the Executive Order is unconstitutional and that CPB will not implement or enforce it unless ordered by a court. The settlement also provides for CPB to disburse previously agreed upon funds to NPR to operate PRSS, the interconnected satellite-distributed network managed by NPR.In conjunction with this outcome, NPR announced to the public radio system that it will immediately dedicate additional resources toward fortifying the public radio system.
"The settlement is a victory for editorial independence and a step toward upholding the First Amendment rights of NPR and the public media system in our legal challenge to Executive Order 14290," said Katherine Maher, President and CEO of NPR. "While we entered into this dispute with CPB reluctantly, we're glad to resolve it in a way that enables us to continue to provide for the stability of the Public Radio Satellite System, offer immediate and direct support to public radio stations across the country, and proceed with our strong and substantive claims against this illegal and unconstitutional Executive Order. We look forward to our day in court in December."
Pursuant to the terms of the settlement, NPR and CPB have entered into a separate five-year amendment to a prior grant agreement pursuant to which CPB disbursed $35,962,000 in federal funds appropriated for interconnection purposes to NPR to support NPR's operation and management of the Public Radio Satellite System (PRSS). Read Release HERE
The LABF Celebrates 2025's 'Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts Award Recipients'
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 17TH, 2025 – The Library of American Broadcasting Foundation (LABF) recognized an incredible lineup of trailblazing industry leaders for lifetime achievements during the 2025 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony. The annual event took place from 11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. on Friday, November 14th at Gotham Hall in New York City. Returning this year as the official event emcee was 2018 Giant Honoree and 60 Minutes and CBS News Correspondent, Bill Whitaker.
The 2025 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts honorees include: DAVID MUIR Anchor and Managing Editor ABC World News Tonight with David Muir, Co-Anchor of ABC’s 2020 LYNN BEALL Visionary Strategist and Innovator, Retired Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Media Operations TEGNA Inc. RICK DEES Legendary Radio Icon, Entertainer and Entrepreneur JOHN FEORE JR. Esteemed Communications Attorney and Trusted Advisor DICK FERGUSON Distinguished Radio Executive and Retired EVP, Cox Radio Group NBC Celebrating 100 years in Broadcasting – award accepted by Chief White House Correspondent and co-anchor of “Weekend Today”, Peter Alexander GARY SANDY Acclaimed Stage, Screen and Television Icon Beloved for his role as “Andy Travis” on WKRP in Cincinnati LESLEY VISSER Trailblazing Hall of Fame Sportscaster First Woman Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame 2025 LABF Excellence in Preservation Award.
In addition to the Giants honorees, Steven Portnoy, ABC News Radio White House Correspondent and Immediate Past President of the White House Correspondents’ Association, was recognized with the 3rd Annual LABF Excellence in Preservation Award.
“The Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts Awards are a true celebration of the visionaries and innovators whose work continues to shape the future of our industry,” said Beasley Media Group Chief Communications Officer Heidi Raphael and longtime D.C.- based communications attorney Jack Goodman, Co-Chairs of the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation.
GIANTS 25_01: L to R: Giants Gary Sandy, Peter Alexander, David Muir, Lesley Visser, Rick Dees, Lynn Beall, John Fiore, Jr. and Dick Ferguson
Ryan Chase Exits 'The Roula & Ryan Show W' On 104.1 KRBE Houston After Nearly 20 Years
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 17TH, 2025 – According to local media reporter Mike McGuff, Ryan Chase is no longer with 104.1 KRBE Houston. Earlier this year, "The Roula & Ryan Show" was renamed "The Roula & Ryan Show with Eric." McGuff says late Friday afternoon they changed the station's website to reflect the new show called "The Roula Show with Eric ft. Special K & Sam." However, this was soon deleted.
Chase began his radio career at K-Fox 95.5 Lufkin. Chase later worked for 92.3 K-Rock WXRK New York in the late 1990s, where Howard Stern was the morning show host. 1998, he left New York for 94.5 The Edge in Dallas-Fort Worth, where he worked mornings on "Jagger, Ryan and Michelle." In 2003, Chase joined MIX 96.5 and began working with Roula on "The Roula and Ryan Show," alongside producer Eric Rowe. The morning show duo moved to 104.1 KRBE in 2006, taking over for Atom Smasher and Maria Todd.
Tom Bergeron Apologizes To Bobby Bones After Calling His 2018 DWTS' Mirrorball Win 'Shocking'
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 14TH, 2025 – After Tom Bergeron called Bobby Bones’ 2018 'Dancing With the Stars' win the most shocking in his career followed by the popular host promptly returning his Mirrorball trophy, the former DWTS' host has apologized. EOnline's Olivia Evans says Tom Bergeron walked back a 'misstep' after the former Dancing With the Stars host shared in Parade Magazine he thought, “Ouch,” when Bobby won. Bones expressed hurt over the public callout and shared his intention to return his trophy. In response, Tom directly addressed the former contestant with a message of regret.
“Sorry, Bobby,” Tom wrote in a Nov. 13 Instagram post. “Sometimes I should fall back on my training.” Alongside the comment, the former America’s Funniest Home Videos star included a screenshot of a personal note he wrote to The Bobby Bones Show. “Bobby, it wasn’t my intention to hurt your feelings,” Tom wrote. “My ‘ouch’ was based on my honest feeling that your win spoke to a need to address the balance between judge and viewer voting.”
Begeron who served as a Guest Judge on this week's DWTS, left the show in 2019 after nearly 20 years as its host. He emphasized that his reaction to Bobby’s win was more about how he knew the audience would feel, also expressing empathy for his professional partner Sharna Burgess. “I always felt bad that you and Sharna had to deal with the aftermath of that win,” he explained. “I certainly regret pouring any salt into that old wound.”
According to the New York Post, Bones revealed he did not intend to be on “DWTS” but joined the cast because he had a contract with ABC and they asked him to compete to promote his own show. Bones added, "I had a great attitude. I worked hard and here we are, six years later I’m still catching strays out of nowhere,” he said.
Photos: Top left/Shutterstock, Top right/by Eric McCandless/ABC , at bottom: Tom Bergeron Instagram
Seven Former FCC Commissioners Urge Agency to Stop Threatening ‘Broadcasters’ Free Speech’
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 14TH, 2025 – In response to controversial efforts by the Federal Communications Commission to investigate broadcasters for airing biased news coverage, a group of seven former commissioners and chairs, plus additional senior-level former staff, have submitted a sternly worded petition to the agency slamming its attempts “to mold the speech of private broadcasters to the FCC’s own view of what is correct.” According to tvtechnology.com, The petition asks the agency to rescind the news distortion policy, which has “significantly chilled and otherwise altered the content of broadcasters’ speech, undermining First Amendment values.”
The petition is in response to several highly controversial investigations by the FCC into allegations of “biased” news coverage by ABC, CBS and NBC of President Trump and comments by FCC Chair Brendan Carr that the regulator has the power to punish broadcasters and potentially even remove broadcast licenses from stations violating “public interest” and “news distortion” rules. The petitioners are a bipartisan group of former FCC chairs, commissioners, and other senior leaders who served the agency between 1981 and 2017. Signing on were Andrew C. Barrett, Rachelle B. Chong, Ervin S. Duggan, Mark S. Fowler, Dennis R. Patrick, Alfred C. Sikes, Thomas E. Wheeler, Christopher J. Wright, Kathryn C. Brown, Jerald N. Fritz and Peter Pitsch. The petitions were represented by Protect Democracy, TechFreedom, Andrew Jay Schwartzman and Gigi Sohn.
REPORT: The Future of Media Is Being Built On YouTube - 'On YouTube, Everything Is Growing'
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 14TH, 2025 – In a story originally published in 'On Background' with Mark Stenberg, a free, weekly newsletter that explores the key themes shaping the media industry, he wrote "A few months ago, at a press dinner hosted by the publisher 1440, I was commiserating with another reporter about a recent spate of media layoffs when Josh Kaplan chimed in. Kaplan, the cofounder of the talent agency Smooth Media, politely suggested that the doom and gloom narrative surrounding the media industry was misplaced, as it largely ignored perhaps the most exciting space for media entrepreneurship at the moment: YouTube.
“You’re looking in the wrong direction,” Kaplan said. “On YouTube, everything is growing.” Since then, as so often happens with these kinds of epiphanies, I have begun to see evidence of this claim everywhere I look. Last month, I profiled the unlikely reinvention of The Daily Beast, whose momentum comes in large part from adopting a “creator at scale” strategy that relies heavily on platforms like Substack and YouTube. The Beast, which launched its YouTube just earlier this year, now has nearly half a million subscribers on the site.
Similarly, another legacy publisher, Complex, has invested aggressively in its YouTube channel following its acquisition last year by Ntwrk. The publisher has shifted the bulk of its editorial resources to video, both as a means to insulate itself from AI and as a tactic to engage its younger audience, CEO Aaron Levant told ADWEEK. More telling, however, is the growing flight of media entrepreneurs to YouTube. Read article HERE
99.5 The Mountain Raises $68,000 For Project Sanctuary During Annual Radiothon in Denver
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 14TH, 2025 – Audacy's 99.5 The Mountain (KQMT-FM) in Denver, raised $68,000 for its 8th annual Postman Law Project Sanctuary Radiothon. All proceeds, which shattered previous totals, go towards supporting veterans and their families through the incredible work of Project Sanctuary.
On October 10, afternoon host and Brand Manager Dan Hardee was on-air from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. MST. During the broadcast, he shared powerful stories from veterans and their families, took donations and fired off a submarine horn every time a big donation came through to keep the energy up throughout the twelve hours.
“The success of this radiothon is a powerful reflection of our community’s deep commitment to supporting military families,” said Micah Goldberg, Senior Vice President and Market Manager, Audacy Denver. “Shattering our previous goals is a testament to the generosity of our listeners and the strength of our partnership with Project Sanctuary. We extend our deepest gratitude to our title sponsor, Postman Law, and presenting sponsor, Cobblestone Car Wash and everyone who helped put on this successful radiothon.”
Survey: People Care About Music And Want To Know If They're Hearing AI or Human Made Tracks
'80% of survey respondents wanted fully AI-generated music clearly labeled for listeners
JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 13TH, 2025 – According to a survey released Wednesday, it's become increasingly difficult for people to tell the difference between music generated by artificial intelligence or by humans. CBS reports the polling firm Ipsos asked 9,000 people to listen to two clips of AI-generated music and one of human-made music in a survey conducted for the streaming platform Deezer. "Ninety-seven percent could not distinguish between music entirely generated by AI and human-created music," said Deezer in a statement.
The survey was conducted between October 6 and 10 in eight countries: Brazil, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands and the United States. Deezer said more than half of the respondents felt uncomfortable at not being able to tell the difference. Pollsters also asked broader questions about the impact of AI, with 51 percent saying the technology would lead to more low-quality music on streaming platforms and almost two-thirds believing it will lead to a loss of creativity.
"The survey results clearly show that people care about music and want to know if they're listening to AI or human made tracks or not," Deezer CEO Alexis Lanternier said in a statement. Deezer said there's not only been a surge in AI-generated content being uploaded to its platform, but it's attracting listeners as well. In January, one in 10 of the tracks streamed each day were completely AI-generated. Ten months later, that percentage has climbed to over one in three, or nearly 40,000 per day.
Eighty percent of survey respondents wanted fully AI-generated music clearly labelled for listeners. Deezer is the only major music-streaming platform that systematically labels completely AI-generated content for users. Read Article HERE
[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
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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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
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
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
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)
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
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: 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.
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!
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Edison Research Announces Top 25 Podcasts in the UK for Q3 2025 from Edison Podcast Metrics The Joe Rogan Experience, The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett, and The Rest Is Politics remain in the top three spots For Immediate Release Glen Mills, PA USA (December 1, 2025) Edison Research announces the Top 25 Podcasts in the UK from Edison Podcast Metrics based on reach for the third quarter of 2025 among weekly podcast listeners ages 15+. The Joe Rogan Experience, The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett, and The Rest Is Politics top the list, as they did in Q2 2025. The top six shows remain in the same rank order as Q2, with other rank changes in the Top 10 noted below parenthetically. The full list of Top 25 podcasts is attached. The Joe Rogan Experience The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett The Rest Is Politics The Rest Is History The Rest Is Football That Peter Crouch Podcast Newscast (+1 rank position since Q2 2025) The News Agents (+1) Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster (+1) ShxtsNGigs (+6) In the Top 25 for the first time: RedHanded, a true crime podcast hosted by two London-based women who decided to start a podcast after meeting at a party several years ago, breaks into the Top 25. Notable moves: You’re Dead to Me soars 33 positions to move into the Top 25 for the first time since Q1 2025. ShxtsNGigs makes it into the Top 10 for the first time since Q3 2024. The Overlap sees its highest rank ever at #17. Hosted by English football legend Gary Neville, The Overlap received some attention in Q3 after a former football player pointed out that the male hosts were ignoring the female host. Edison Podcast Metrics rankings now incorporate data from individuals whose sole podcast consumption in the past week was through video. In addition to being asked if they listened to a podcast in the past week, respondents are also asked if they watched a video podcast.
nounces Channel 93.3’s 'Keggs And Eggs” Annual Event Moving To Denver’s Iconic Union Station JOCKLINE, NOVEMBER 19TH, 2025 – Channel 93.3 personality Nerf will reveal the lineup for the 2026 “Keggs and Eggs” event live on-air from Denver Union Station on Thursday, November 20 and giveaway guaranteed admission passes to fans. iHeart Denver announced that Channel 93.3’s landmark event “Keggs and Eggs” will now take place at a Denver landmark, Denver Union Station, on March 13, 2026. Fans are invited to check out the new event location where Channel 93.3 personality Nerf will reveal the lineup for the 2026 “Keggs and Eggs” event live on-air from Denver Union Station on Thursday, November 20 starting at 3 p.m. Fans in attendance will also get a chance to win the first few pairs of guaranteed admission passes for this year’s event. Media is invited to attend the live broadcast, please contact Miranda Emmons to RSVP. WHEN: Channel 93.3 Live Broadcast and Lineup Reveal: Thursday, November 20, 2025 at 3 p.m.- 6 p.m. Channel 93.3’s “Keggs and Eggs” Event 7 a.m. March 13, 2026 WHERE: Denver Union Station 1701 Wynkoop Street Denver, CO 80202 MORE: For the latest information fans can tune in to Channel 93.3 on air or online via the station’s website and the iHeartRadio app. iHeartMedia is the leading media outlet in the Denver, CO market with multiple platforms, including its broadcast stations; live events; data; and its digital businesses and platforms, including mobile, social and its own iHeartRadio, iHeartMedia’s free all-in- one digital music, podcasting and live streaming radio service – available across more than 500 platforms and over 2,000 devices including smart speakers, digital auto dashes, tablets, wearables, smartphones, virtual assistants, televisions and gaming consoles. CONTACT: iHeartMedia Denver Miranda Emmons mirandaemmons@iheartmedia.com ### About iHeartMedia, Inc. iHeartMedia Denver owns and operates KTCL and is part of iHeartMedia. iHeartMedia, [Nasdaq: IHRT] is the leading audio media company in America, with nine out of ten Americans listening to iHeart broadcast radio in every month. iHeart’s broadcast radio assets alone have a larger audience in the U.S. than any other media outlet; twice the size of the next largest broadcast radio company; and over four times the ad-enabled audience of the largest digital only audio service. iHeart is the largest podcast publisher according to Podtrac, with more downloads than the next two podcast publishers combined, has the most recognizable live events across all genres of music, has the number one social footprint among audio players, with five times more followers than the next audio media brand, and is the only fully integrated audio ad tech solution across broadcast, streaming and podcasts. The company continues to leverage its strong audience connection and unparalleled consumer reach to build new platforms, products and services. Visit iHeartMedia.com for more company information.
77 WABC and Red Apple Audio Networks Partner with Shriners Children’s for Multi-Media Campaign to Raise Money on Giving Tuesday New York, NY – December 1, 2025 -- 77 WABC Radio is excited to partner with Shriners Children’s™️ for a multi-media campaign that will increase awareness and support for the mission of providing children with The Most Amazing Care Anywhere™. The campaign runs through Giving Tuesday, December 2, and includes participation by 77 WABC and sister station WLIR-FM on Long Island. It will include social media outreach; donation links on the 77 WABC app and website; and promotion through Red Apple Audio Networks, which reaches more than 480 radio stations nationwide. WABC Radio personality and legendary New York TV anchor Ernie Anastos is the voice of the campaign. This Giving Tuesday there is a triple match challenge. Every dollar that is donated now through Giving Tuesday will have three times the impact to help more kids. “Children are our future,” said John Catsimatidis, owner of Red Apple Media and WABC Radio. “We are proud to partner with Shriners Children’s and support their mission of providing specialty medical care to children across the country and around the world. ” “Shriners Children’s is honored to partner with WABC Radio this Giving Tuesday. Together, we aim to make a meaningful impact in the lives of our patients and their families by inviting the WABC audience to support the amazing wrap-around care we provide,” said Stuart Sullivan, Shriners Children's chief philanthropy officer. “This partnership highlights the power of community and allows us to extend care to even more children from the WABC listening area and beyond.” “77 WABC is community-minded and committed to serving the New York City area,” added Chad Lopez, President, Red Apple Media and WABC Radio. “Partnering with Shriners Children’s, we are able to bring hope to children and their families, regardless of their ability to pay.”
iHeartMedia Lexington Announces New “Bourbon & Bubbles” Event All-Inclusive Tasting Event Showcasing Kentucky’s Best Bourbon, Champagne and Culinary Experiences LEXINGTON, KY – December 10, 2025 – iHeartMedia Lexington today announced the launch of its first-ever “Bourbon & Bubbles” event, a one-of-a-kind celebration bringing together the best of Kentucky’s bourbon distilleries and sparkling wine selections. The event will take place on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 5 p.m.- 9 p.m. at the Central Bank Center in Downtown Lexington, Kentucky. “Bourbon & Bubbles” will highlight Kentucky’s premium bourbon distilleries, sparkling wines and champagne selections, for an evening of tasting, music and entertainment. The event will also feature gourmet food samples from some of Lexington’s best restaurants, live entertainment and more—creating a unique evening experience that celebrates Kentucky’s craftsmanship and hospitality. “Bourbon & Bubbles is a celebration of everything that makes Lexington special — world-class bourbon, incredible food, and a vibrant community,” said Caroline Hall, Regional Event Director at iHeartMedia. “We’re excited to bring an unforgettable tasting and entertainment experience to the city and make this an annual tradition.” “Bourbon & Bubbles” is made possible through the generous support of local partners, including RefCon Heating & Air, The Vine, S&S Tire, and other community sponsors. Tickets: General Admission: $70 (plus taxes and fees), includes entry, a souvenir tasting glass, and all food and beverage samples. VIP Admission: $126 (plus tax and fees), includes 30 minutes early entry, a VIP lanyard, a special souvenir tasting glass, access to the VIP lounge with seating, and all food and beverage samples. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit HERE.
Get Your Jingle Bells On and Get Ready for Some Holiday Cheer! Great Holiday Specials from our award-winning Country Show Personalities... ***** Y'All Access with Kelly Sutton The Original Country Gold with Rowdy Yates Country Countdown USA with Lon Helton ***** All Show Specials are available Commerical Free via immediate download with Access Code provided by Doug Ingold at Compass Media Networks. No waiting, just run the show. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SPECIALS & DOWNLOAD THE SHOW FILES ADD A COUNTRY SPECIAL TODAY, CONTACT: Doug Ingold VP/Affiliate Sales, Music & Entertainment COMPASS MEDIA NETWORKS | LOS ANGELES dingold@compassmedianetworks.com *** HAPPY HOLIDAYS ***
ADD A COUNTRY SPECIAL TODAY, CONTACT: Doug Ingold VP/Affiliate Sales, Music & Entertainment COMPASS MEDIA NETWORKS | LOS ANGELES dingold@compassmedianetworks.com
Country Top 40 with Fitz to Host a Series of December Holiday Specials Fitz to be joined by country music star, Lauren Alaina, as co-host (December 10, 2025) – Country music’s legendary countdown program, Country Top 40 with Fitz (CT40), through its syndication partner Skyview Networks, announced today its upcoming series of December holiday specials, Deck the Hits with Lauren and Fitz, co-hosted by country artist, Lauren Alaina, and Year of Hits with Fitz: The Top 40 Songs of 2025. “Join me and Lauren Alaina as we kick off the season with a merry Fitz-mas celebration!” said Fitz, host of CT40. “No one gets in the holiday spirit like CT40, and we are excited to deck the halls and sing along to this year’s biggest hits as we put a bow on a great 2025, CT40 style!” The weekend of December 20 and 21, with an option to air December 24 and 25, country music star, Lauren Alaina, will co-host with Fitz for Deck the Hits with Lauren and Fitz, showcasing holiday music classics from some of the biggest country music legends while they share some of their own holiday traditions. From January 3 and 4, with an option to air earlier on December 31 or January 1, CT40 will wrap up 2025 with the Year of Hits with Fitz, highlighting the biggest country songs of this year. “We are excited to close out another great year with Fitz and CT40,” said Andrew Kalb, EVP, Strategic Business Operations of Skyview Networks. “Fitz and Lauren are the perfect duo to get affiliates and their listeners into the holiday spirit, and we look forward to rounding out 2025 with two high-energy specials.” Holiday specials are available to all current and prospective affiliates pending market availability. For details or inquiries on the upcoming specials, please contact affiliation@skyviewsat.com or visit skyviewnetworks.com/ct40/.
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