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Top Radio News
iHM/New York Region President Scott Hopeck to Exit
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, December 8, 2023 |
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iHeartMedia/New York Region President Scott Hopeck will exit after nearly 20 years to pursue another opportunity. He's headed the New York region since 2015 and previously had oversight of the company's cluster of stations in Phoenix. Before that, Hopeck was SVP of Sales in Atlanta. Hopeck joined iHM's predecessor Clear Channel in 2004 as General Manager of the Braves Radio Network. He has also served as Chairman of The New York Market Radio Association.
In a company memo, CEO Bob Pittman and COO/CFO Rich Bressler said, "We know you will join us in wishing him all the best and congratulating him on his many accomplishments at iHeart. We thank him for his important contributions during his career with us."
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Additionally, Florida Division President Kim Guthrie -- who joined iHeartMedia in July, 2022 replacing Linda Byrd, has decided to take a step back from her day-to-day role as and will become a Strategic Advisor and will continue working with iHeartMedia for the next three years.
Bressler and Pittman commented in the memo, "We continue to be extremely appreciative of Kim's extraordinary experience and expertise in navigating us through the post-pandemic world. We are lucky to have had her leadership at such a critical time and we thank her for her commitment; we're very pleased that she will continue to work with us to keep iHeart at the forefront of innovation."
A 30+ year industy vet, Guthrie previously served as President/Chief Executive Officer of Cox Media Group since 2016. Guthrie first joined CMG in 1998 as VP/General Manager for its Long Island, NY group before working her way up through the ranks and serving as Executive VP of CMG's National Ad Platforms. She started her career in the midwest, where she worked as a television news reporter and anchor for several ABC affiliates.
BFoA Launches Social Media Campaign ''12 Days of Giving''
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, December 8, 2023 |
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The Broadcasters Foundation of America is launching a social media campaign on Monday, December 11 with "12 Days of Giving." Each day will feature a different message, ranging from thank you notes from grant recipients to positive statements about radio, television, and charitable giving.
"We need to reach radio and television professionals across every channel at our disposal," said Broadcasters Foundation President Tim McCarthy. 'The 12 Days of Giving Social Media Campaign' is a great way to raise funds and awareness of our mission, especially among junior-level people in broadcasting."
"'The 12 Days of Giving Social Media Campaign' is a great way to raise funds and awareness of our mission, especially among junior-level people in broadcasting," commented Broadcasters Foundation Chair Scott Herman.
The Broadcasters Foundation has made reaching junior and up-and-coming professionals in broadcasting a priority this year with Media Mixers in New York and Chicago. Media Mixers bring together top-level executives with professionals new to broadcasting in a fun and relaxed environment. More Media Mixers will be announced in 2024.
The Broadcasters Foundation has distributed more than $15 million dollars in aid over the past 20 years. This year, the Foundation will award approximately $1.8 million. More information about the Broadcasters Foundation, including how to make a donation or apply for aid, is available at here.
Skyview Networks Extends Partnership with SnoCountry
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, December 8, 2023 |
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SnoCountry, a source for snow conditions and ski resort information, and Skyview Networks ink a renewal of their partnership for network audio sales. By utilizing Skyview's sales platforms, advertisers can reach SnoCountry's winter enthusiasts with targeted ski reports throughout the 2024 winter season.
"We are thrilled to partner with a team that matches our enthusiasm for skiing and riding," said SnoCountry President Mike Colbourn. "With Skyview Networks' proven network audio sales, we eagerly anticipate another successful season and a long-lasting partnership."
"SnoCountry listeners are energetic, active ski fans. The network is a great fit for families, travelers, sports enthusiasts and dynamic Gen Zs and millennials," added Skyview Networks President of Network Partnerships and Chief Revenue Officer Jeanne-Marie Condo. "We have a lot of fun with this network, generating terrific client results."
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WGTS-FM/Washington DC Collects Toys for Tots
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, December 8, 2023 |
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WGTS/Washington, DC is teaming with the United States Marine Corps and DC ABC affiliate 7 News to collect toys for kids. All three groups joined together at the Iwo Jima Memorial to host one of the largest toy drives in the region. For six hours, listeners and community members turned the circular road around the memorial into a drive-through toy stop. WGTS was broadcasting live, as well as doing television reports with 7 News.
By the end of the six-hour event, two large box trucks were filled with toys, with everything from bikes to balls to toy trucks and dolls. The goal is to give toys to more than 29,000 children in the area.
"We are honored to be a small part of the team helping deliver Christmas to thousands of kids around the District," said WGTS morning show host and Marketing Director Jerry Woods. "This is the second year we've been on the team, and it was exciting to see listeners respond in such a big way, doubling the number of toys we collected last year."
WPLR & WFOX's Chaz and AJ Raise $167,200 in Cash and Toys
| RADIO ONLINE | Friday, December 8, 2023 |
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WPLR/New Haven & WFOX/Milford morning hosts Chaz and AJ spent Friday morning at Jordan's Furniture New Haven collecting cash and toys equaling $167,200 to be distributed to Connecticut children's charities. The annual "Chaz and AJ McDermott Chevrolet and Lexus of New Haven Toy Drive" took place from 6-10am and featured performances from Foghat and Finger Eleven, as well as local youth school and band, Rock House, and local favorite The Rum Runners.
Other highlights included appearances from Governor Ned Lamont, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, Mayor Justin Elicker (New Haven), Mayor Joseph Carfora (East Haven), Mayor David Cassetti (Ansonia), Mayor Pete Hess (Naugatuck), and Town Manager Brian Foley (Tolland). Former State Senator, George Logan kicked off the festivities, performing the national anthem on guitar.
To be filed under "things that would only happen at the Chaz and AJ Toy Drive," national news-making political rivals, Mayor Joe Ganim of Bridgeport and mayoral candidate, John Gomes made for unlikely singing duet partners, performing the Sonny and Cher classic, "I Got You Babe."
State Comptroller, Sean Scanlon performed a rendition of NSYNC's "Bye, Bye, Bye," with the SCSU Dance Team. International Recording Artist, Samantha Cole performed her hit "Luv Me, Luv Me" with Randy Buttner of the popular local band, The Zoo.
Local celebrities Ashley Baylor of WTNH joined the festivities and Scot Haney of WFSB showed off his talents as a member of "The OGees," a tribute to the Bee Gees, plus Mayor Vincent Cervoni of Wallingford played several classic guitar riffs while participating in a "Name That Tune" game with attendees.
"Another year and another great event thanks to the tremendous support of our listeners," said Chaz. "To be able to raise over $167,000 in cash and toys and know that it is helping a child in Connecticut wake up to a better Christmas, is so heart-warming."
"Chaz and AJ, for twenty years now, have galvanized their audience to wake up at 6am and donate thousands of dollars to help local kids in need," added Connoisseur Media Vice President of Programming, Keith Dakin, "Just an unbelievable event that truly captures the spirit of the holiday season."
The toys and cash were distributed to Boys and Girls Village, Inc, Boys and Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley, Central Connecticut Coast YMCA, McGivney Community Center, TEAM Inc., and the Center for Family Justice, Inc.
Spanish Broadcasting President/COO Albert Rodriguez Resigns
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, December 7, 2023 |
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In a surprise announcement during the company's third quarter earnings call on Thursday, Albert Rodriguez said he is stepping down as President & COO of Spanish Broadcasting System. Rodriguez was named COO in May, 2012, and then President in 2021, after serving as Chief Revenue Officer for the company's TV unit and General Manager of its Miami TV operations. Before that, Rodriguez served as General Sales Manager for the SBS Miami's radio cluster.
Rodriguez said he's resigning after "much reflection and consideration." He'll remain with SBS as a strategic advisor "providing guidance and strategic insights to ensure a seamless transition."
"It's been an incredible journey," added Rodriguez. "And I'm immensely proud of what we've achieved together, in particular, to the beacon of the Hispanic voice in America, which is my dear brother, Raul Alarcon, Jr. He's like a brother to me."
SBS Chief Financial Officer Josw Molina concluded the earnings call by wishing Rodriguez the best in his new role. "You did an amazing job and will continue to do amazing things."
Cumulus Promotes Holly Paras to Regional Vice President
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, December 7, 2023 |
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Holly Paras is elevated to Regional Vice President of Cumulus Media's clusters in Providence, RI and New London, CT. Paras currently serves as VP/Market Manager of the company's Providence group and adds oversight of its three stations and digital offerings in New London, CT. Prior to her appointment in 2016 to her current post, Paras was Director of Sales for Cumulus Providence for more than 10 years, and before that, National Sales Manager for WHJY, WSNE and WWBB in Providence.
Cumulus Media President, Operations Dave Milner said, "Holly is an extremely effective and capable leader. Having her lead New London in addition to Providence allows for us to provide enhanced solutions for customers in Rhode Island and Eastern Connecticut."
Paras commented, "I am thrilled to be able to work with the incredible stations and team at Cumulus New London. Together, Cumulus Media's vibrant brands in these two adjacent markets create a highly effective marketing platform and opportunity for advertisers and community partners."
Robert Dove Appointed Alpha Media Portland Market Manager
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, December 7, 2023 |
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Robert Dove is appointed Market Manager for Alpha Media in Portland, OR. Dove is a former iHeartMedia Regional President and replaces Lisa Decker, who has announced her retirement after leading the cluster for the past seven years. Most recently, Dove worked as the Managing Partner at a Portland advertising agency. He brings 36 years of broadcasting experience to the group, including a five-year run as the Regional President of iHeartMedia, overseeing its Seattle, Portland, Spokane, Anchorage and Fairbanks clusters.
"I'm very excited to join the Alpha Media team. As a native Portlander having the chance to work with some of Portland radio's most iconic brands is very rewarding and fulfilling," said Dove. "I can't wait to get started."
"I am very excited to have Robert lead us to new heights, opportunities, and successes," added Alpha Media CEO Bob Proffitt. "He knows Portland like no other broadcaster, has deep relationships and knowledge of our city's intricacies, and will be a great addition to our team of Market Managers all across America."
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Podtrac Issues the Top Podcasts for November 2023
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, December 7, 2023 |
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Podtrac has issued the top podcast publishers, top sales networks and top podcasts rankings for November. U.S. UMA increased or was flat for three of the Top 20 publishers in November, 2023 over October. The average U.S. Unique Monthly Audience for the Top 20 publishers was down 3% month-over-month and down 9% over November, 2022. Total Global Downloads for the Top 20 publishers were down 15% month-over-month and down 19% year-over-year, due largely to modified download behavior by iOS 17. The combined Audience for the Top Sales Networks was up 9% month-over-month.
Affiliate Sales Pro Tim McDonald Announces Retirement
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, December 7, 2023 |
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Benztown announces that Tim McDonald, a veteran affiliate sales professional, will retire from radio at year-end after a 40-year career. He joined Benztown in 2019 as a member of its Affiliate Sales team. McDonald started his career in affiliate sales in 1983 at Westwood One in Culver City, CA selling long and short-form programming, while also doing music/studio work in Los Angeles.
McDonald then moved on to RPMC Inc. in Tarzana, selling travel, event, and concert promotion packages nationally to radio stations and worked at Transmedia in San Francisco before segueing to affiliate relations for Jones Radio Networks in New York, working with prep services and morning shows. Prior to joining Benztown, McDonald was Director, Affiliate Relations for Grooveworx, an imaging and music jingle house based in Santa Monica.
Benztown President Dave "Chachi" Denes said, "I've learned immensely from Tim. He's contributed greatly to our success and I'm thankful to have worked with him over the last five years. We thank him for sharing his talents with us and wish him every success in his next chapter."
Denes added, "In addition to being a world-class affiliate rep, Tim is a remarkable guitarist. Now that he has time to focus on his music, I expect to see him on tour next year with the Stones."
McDonald commented, "Benztown has been the most incredible of all my experiences in radio, and I thank the management, Chachi, Masa, Andy, and Oli for supporting me. I will really miss all my co-workers that make up the best team I have ever been on. I will look forward to my next chapter, focusing on my music projects and many gigs."
$12B Projected in 2024 for Local Healthcare Advertising
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, December 7, 2023 |
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A healthcare survey by BIA Advisory Services and SalesFuel reveals that healthcare marketers will spend more than $12 billion in local advertising in 2024. Hospitals and offices of physicians, dentists and chiropractors are top spenders with direct mail, PC/Laptop and TV OTA the media channels getting the most spend. In the survey, more than 60% of respondents said they have either explored or intend to explore generative artificial intelligence for marketing assistance.
The survey, hosted by local advertising analysts at BIA and sales intelligence expert SalesFuel, engaged healthcare professionals from hospitals, physician groups, medical clinics, dental and vision care organizations, mental health care providers, assisted living facilities, sports medicine, medical suppliers and other healthcare facilities. The goal was to delve into the strategies and current thinking of healthcare marketers to get insights into their marketing and advertising preferences for media and services.
They also sought to identify how healthcare marketers plan to allocate their budgets now and soon to fulfill their goals and objectives. The survey was conducted in the summer of 2023 and included more than three hundred respondents with senior marketing titles.
"The healthcare advertising landscape continues to be rapidly evolving, and this survey provides essential insights for marketers to stay ahead of the game," said SalesFuel Founder and CEO C. Lee Smith. "Working with BIA, we were able to combine our healthcare audience insights with their industry advertising forecasts to develop a survey that got to the core of healthcare marketers. Our findings reveal valuable opportunities for healthcare marketers or anyone who wants to work with them."
The survey findings shed light on the landscape of healthcare marketing, revealing how marketers plan to spend their advertising dollars across various platforms. The results reveal that healthcare marketers are extending their budgets beyond paid advertising, engaging in various marketing activities to effectively reach their target audiences. Notable highlights include the increasing significance of Connected TV (CTV) and Over-The-Top (OTT) advertising in healthcare marketing strategies.
The survey found that marketers at hospitals were more likely to place CTV/OTT ads through local television and radio representatives than doctors' offices (47.2% vs 20.0%.)
"Marketing within the healthcare sector requires a multi-faceted approach, and our survey shows that healthcare marketers are embracing this mindset," commented BIA VP Forecasting, Nicole Ovadia. "The survey highlights the increasing adoption of CTV/OTT advertising that spans multiple platforms and genres. This reflects the diversity of marketing approaches within the healthcare sector to reach consumers."
WKSJ/Mobile-Pensacola Radio Icon Bill Black to Retire
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, December 7, 2023 |
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iHeartMedia New Country KSJ/Mobile-Pensacola announces the retirement of Bill Black. His last day on-air will be January 30, 2024. Black's career began in 1978 and he has been intricate to the fabric of 95 KSJ since 1992. He spent most of his time in middays, including the past three years in afternoons with Shelby Mitchell. Over his 45-year career, Black has devoted his time to raising funds and awareness for St. Jude Children's Hospital.
"It's been an amazing run these past almost 45 years of radio employment, and the last 31 as part of iHeart Media and 95 KSJ. I've had the honor to introduce amazing performers to our Mobile audience and watch as their careers skyrocketed. My staff has always been more like family and we have cared and carried one another every day," said Black.
"My greatest joy was back in 1998 when I decided to become a member of the St. Jude family. 95 KSJ has raised millions of dollars for St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital, aiding in their goal of Finding Cures and Saving Children. 95 KSJ and St. Jude will always have a special place in my heart. A special thank you to my Market President Ronnie Bloodworth, Tony Travatto and brand manager Rod Phillips for allowing me to steer the 95 KSJ ship my way for all these years," he added.
"If you have ever spent time with Bill, you either laughed or found out just how passionate he was for helping the children of St. Jude. Being in radio, we have a responsibility to entertain and serve our communities. Bill did both for over 45 years. Thank you, Bill, for being one of the most genuine human beings I know," said iHeartMedia Market President Ronnie Bloodworth.
"While we are extremely happy for Bill and proud of all he's accomplished, we are sad for the iHeartCountry team as we say goodbye to one of the legends. added iHeart Country EVP Programming Rod Phillips. "But we know we'll see him again soon at another KSJ country show."
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Westwood One Presents Coverage of 124th Army-Navy Game
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, December 7, 2023 |
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Westwood One will present national audio coverage of the Army-Navy Football Game presented by USAA. One of college football's most legendary rivalries, this year's game will be broadcast live from Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, MA, on Saturday, December 9 at 2pm ET.
John Sadak (play-by-play), Ross Tucker (analyst), and sideline reporter Tina Cervasio will bring all the tradition, pageantry, and excitement of the 124th meeting between the Army Black Knights and Navy Midshipmen to listeners nationwide. Jason Horowitz will host the pregame, halftime, and postgame shows.
Westwood One's coverage of the game will air on affiliates nationwide and will be streamed live on WestwoodOneSports.com. The broadcast will also be available via TuneIn, SiriusXM, the Varsity Network app and on Alexa-enabled devices. In addition, the game will be broadcast on the American Forces Radio Network in more than 170 countries and nearly 200 military ships at sea.
Podbean Presents Event on Leveraging Podcast AI Tools
| RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, December 7, 2023 |
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Podbean has announced an upcoming virtual event that for podcasters: "Revitalize Your Podcast in the New Year: AI Podcasting Tools." On December 12, Podbean will collaborate with James Cridland, a Radio Futurologist and Editor of Podnews, to unlock the potential of AI in podcasting. Podcasters of all levels are invited to join the live YouTube broadcast to ask questions in real-time, ensuring a dynamic and engaging learning environment.
This event is designed to introduce podcasters to a range of AI tools that will streamline recording and production processes. Attendees will learn about the latest innovations in transcripts, essential hardware, audio enhancement, editing, production, packaging, archiving, accessibility, and future industry trends.
This interactive experience will also provide practical solutions to common podcasting challenges. James Cridland will guide participants through each topic, sharing his expertise on the transformative effects of AI on the podcasting landscape.
"AI is revolutionizing podcasting and Podbean is at the forefront with some really exciting developments," said Podbean's CEO David Xu. "We're offering podcasters the tools to innovate and excel and this event with James Cridland is an incredible opportunity to harness these new technologies for a more dynamic and efficient podcasting experience."
To register for Podbean's, "Revitalize Your Podcast in the New Year: AI Podcasting Tools," visit here.
Foxy 106.9/St. Louis Names Don ''DJ Wrekk-1'' Williams as PD
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 6, 2023 |
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K295CQ (Foxy 106.9 FM)/St. Louis appoints radio personality Don "DJ Wrekk-1" Williams as the station's Program Director. With previous programming experience at stations such as WMBX (X102.3) in West Palm Beach, FL and WHHH in Indianapolis, along with St. Louis, Williams returns to where it all began, ready to make waves in Urban radio. Williams is known for curating engaging playlists that captivate audiences.
"We are absolutely thrilled to have Don "DJ Wrekk-1" Williams join the Foxy 106.9 team as our Program Director. His incredible success story and passion for urban radio make him the ideal choice to lead our station into an exciting future," said Senior Vice President Lou Thimes Jr.
Williams added, "I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Roberts Metro Broadcasting family and Lou Thimes Jr. for their unwavering support. Their belief in me has allowed me to return to where my journey began, and I am truly humbled. I am thrilled to contribute my expertise and enthusiasm to Foxy 106.9, as together we create an extraordinary listening experience for our cherished community."
Dan Bongino Inks Contract Extension with Westwood One
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 6, 2023 |
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Westwood One inks a contract extension with Dan Bongino to continue hosting both his syndicated program "The Dan Bongino Show" on Westwood One and his podcasts, including the podcast "The Dan Bongino Show" on the Cumulus Podcast Network for multiple years. Westwood One launched "The Dan Bongino Show" on syndicated radio in May, 2021 with 115 stations and has tripled station affiliations in just over two years, with 356 affiliates and airing in nine of the top 10 U.S. markets.
"The Dan Bongino Show" podcast is a perennial Top Ten in Apple's News category ranking and has seen well over 200 million downloads so far this year. In addition, the show has been downloaded more than 350 million times on Rumble and was one of the most requested podcasts on Alexa devices this year.
"It's been a fascinating couple years of ups and downs both personally and in the political space," said Bongino. "I love what I do, and I'm ecstatic that we've agreed to move forward with the show after changes were made. I want to thank all the shows' supporters, the stations, and program directors for their continued support. I promise to keep my foot on the gas pedal."
"'The Dan Bongino Show' is one of the greatest growth stories in network syndication, with Dan delivering programming unlike anyone else," said Westwood One President Suzanne Grimes. "As we head into what will surely be an unpredictable election cycle, we know Dan will be always insightful, sometimes provocative, and never disappointing, which is why our listeners are wildly engaged, and our advertisers have flocked to the show."
Chris Brunt Joins Jacobs Media and jacapps as Dir./D&RG
| RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, December 6, 2023 |
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Jacobs Media and jacapps taps Chris Brunt join their teams as Director of Digital and Revenue Generation. He has deep experience in radio programming, digital content creation and served as the Digital Sales Manager at Beasley Media in Detroit. During his time at Beasley (and prior to that, Greater Media Detroit), Brunt made his mark in the development of websites, audio and video streaming, podcasts and social media channels.
"Over the past forty years, we have constantly adjusted and upgraded our services to adapt to our clients' needs," remarked Jacobs Media President Fred Jacobs. "Today, the big need of our clients across both of our companies is digital revenue solutions. Chris is like the 'Swiss Army Knife' of digital - he's a revenue generation expert, and he understands everything from programming to programmatic."
"Chris will be developing revenue strategies as well as opportunities for our mobile app clients to broaden their reach," noted jacapps Chief Operating Officer Bob Kernen. "While jacapps clients love our versatile mobile platform, we are now going to take things up a notch and help them generate even more revenue."
Concurrent with Chris' arrival is the announcement that Seth Resler will be leaving Jacobs Media later this month. Jacobs Media's Vice President/General Manager Paul Jacobs stated, "Seth has developed interests he wants to pursue, and we support him in this endeavor. As opportunities arise, he may serve as a consultant to Jacobs Media in the future."
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