TALKERS magazine (original) (raw)
2024: Dramatic and Challenging Year for Talk Radio
2024 has been a dramatic year of challenges, struggles, and measurable change for the nation, society, and our industry of talk radio and its related talk media platforms. The chart below lists the 10 most talked about Stories, Topics and People discussed on talk shows across the nation during the past 12-month period, according to the research of TALKERS. In some cases, we listed several items as ties – because words and ideas overlap and can be somewhat amorphous. None of these items were discussed in a vacuum – the connections between individual stories and news items, the topics they cover, and the people who played them out under the spotlight of public scrutiny are quite entangled to say the least. We describe some issues as “umbrella” topics. Talk radio also has its own unique focus on populist issues that in many cases tend to be ignored by what is still referred to as the so-called “mainstream” or “legacy” media. (For example, talk radio was talking about public concern over immigration reform long before Donald Trump came down that elevator in 2015.) Conversely, there are “big” stories out there that talk radio leaves to the other media and generally ignores.
The biggest and most challenging issues that faced our industry in 2024 include:
• Economics of the radio industry. Major companies continued to be preoccupied with financial survival and avoiding bankruptcy. The growing preponderance of layoffs across the industry has been heartbreaking. Can radio afford to do “radio” properly anymore? Talk radio is subject to the trials and tribulations of the larger radio industry. It is not surrounded by a protective force field simply because it is important.
• Podcasting and fractionalization. The burgeoning digital media ecosystem originally spawned and inspired by talk radio’s lead now competes with the medium within the interactive marketplace of ideas. Talk radio faces the challenge of expanding to a multi-platform environment such as podcasting and video streaming while maintaining its special “radio” esthetic.
• Growing demographic divide. With each passing year, radio (including talk) faces increasing abandonment by the new crop of adults who weren’t born until after 9/11. This is a major problem no matter what pro-radio research and ratings company report.
• Freedom of speech. Not only was the First Amendment under assault in 2024 from a number of directions – but so was an increasing level of intolerance by corporate America and the disease of hyper-wokeness for controversy. Not good.
• AM radio in the dashboard. The stated intention of the automobile manufacturers to eliminate AM radios from the dashboards of new vehicles is at least five years premature and extremely damaging to the interests of the public as well as the radio industry. The problem is compounded by the damage this issue does to radio’s image in the business world simply by having it being a much-discussed issue at all.
Let’s resolve to overcome some of these challenges in 2025. Happy New Year!
MONDAY MEMO: Could you be next?
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
Each day’s trade press reports how station managers are being saddled with entire regions. Key daypart talent in top 10 markets is being simulcast in other top 10 markets. In 2024, WCBS disappeared entirely. KGO is long-gone. Consolidation cutbacks have been brutal, and more are inevitable.
Accordingly, nine suggested New Year’s Resolutions, smart moves if you’re still working.
1. RESOLVE to build an email list. It’s yours. You control it.
2. RESOLVE to interact with your email list. If they gave you their address to begin with, that was only the beginning. They’re your tribe. Engage them and nurture ongoing relationships.
3. RESOLVE to become more curious about your own species. Eavesdrop on real people, in line at Wal-Mart and Dunkin’ and everywhere else. When you go to renew your driver’s license, look around the room. Then…
4. RESOLVE to focus your show outward. It’s not a show about you and your life. It’s about listeners and their lives. Choose issues and topics that will confront a listener today, right now. Your goal is making phones ring. When it’s caller-after-caller, you sound popular… and advertisers notice. Screen for callers that’ll prompt responses. You’re moderating a chat room, not standing on a soap box. People now favor interactive media. Talk radio survivors will be hosts who excel at two-way radio.
5. RESOLVE to aircheck every show. Not just to keep your resume fresh, but as a self-teaching tool. Wait two weeks before listening, to hear your work with fresh ears.
6. RESOLVE to be the sales department’s MVP. NOBODY can sell your show like you can. Heck, you might ask for more (and get it) than reps would. But even if you don’t carry a list, make yourself available to go on calls. Your on-air pitch will be better-informed and more-effective than sounding like you’re reading-copy. And listen to the retailers you meet. They have a keen sense of their customers’ issues.
7. RESOLVE to create non-radio income streams. The skill set you have as an on-air host or programmer will advantage you in many other walks of life. And remember, if you’re on-air, you enter other local industries with another advantage, your name, “a brand.” And here’s some highly recommended reading, “Making A Living Without a Job,” by Barbara Winter, whom I’ve interviewed. Consider driving Uber, if only to chat-’em-up. You’ll crush Resolution #3 above.
8. RESOLVE to save more aggressively. “Save WHAT???” you ask. Simply saving-money-you-now-may-be-spending-unnecessarily can make a big difference. The loudest sucking sound you’ll hear is coming from that plastic in your wallet. Finance charges are calculated so that you’ll never pay off your card by making the minimum payment. Got a mortgage? Refinance. Brokers are competing for your business, and you could save a couple hundred a month. How often do you eat out?
9. RESOLVE to get it together. Whatever it is that you know you should do but haven’t. Quit smoking. Get more exercise. Cut down on carbohydrates and sugary crap. Drink more moderately. Get organized at home. As Dave Ramsey says, “Sell stuff!” Move-the-ball on that kinda stuff, and you’ll be readier for what happens next.
Reminder: As announced in last week’s column here, I am offering TALKERS readers daily 60-second reports from massive, mind-boggling CES2025, for air Monday 1/6 to Friday 1/10. Simply download each report from my web site the night before. No charge, no paperwork, no national spot. If you sell a local sponsorship, keep the money. For a sample report you can use to pitch, hit HollandCooke.com.
Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke and connect on LinkedIn
Neil Cavuto Exits FOX News
After 28 years on the job, FOX News (FOX News Network and FOX Business Network) host/commentator Neil Cavuto surprised his audience at the conclusion of his “Your World” show yesterday (12/19) by announcing that it would be his final show with the network. During his long run, the business news specialist – often on the receiving end of Donald Trump‘s ire – wore a number of hats at FOX and was known for his independence even when it meant taking on positions unpopular with the network’s base viewers. Cavuto closed the show with the following remarks, “This is it. The final segment, but today I also wanted to let you know this is my final show. I’m leaving FOX. I’ve been planning this day for some time, this just seemed like a good time. Now, some of you might be thinking, ‘well, Neil, it is about time!’ After all, I’ve been doing this for nearly three decades here. You know, there are people working with me now, who weren’t even born when I started at FOX — that’s how old I am. But I’m not leaving journalism, I’m just leaving here. But I’m forever grateful to my bosses here. They have been very good to me these many years and offered a very generous opportunity for me to stay years more.” To view Cavuto’s full closing remarks from yesterday’s broadcast, please click HERE.
Harrison Begins “Don’t Stop Talking” Tour in Support of Radio Anthem
TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison will be spending a large part of his holiday doing media interviews across America in support of the new Gunhill Road music video, “Don’t Stop Talking.” The song is an anthem co-written and performed with his bandmates Steve Goldrich, Paul Reisch, and Brian Koonin in celebration of talk radio. The video component of the project, produced by TALKERS associate publisher Matthew B. Harrison, features clips and images of almost 100 different talk show hosts in action from across the industry. The powerful words and extremely catchy music extoll the virtues of talk radio as a platform for freedom. It encourages hosts and listeners from varied positions on the ideological, geographic, and demographic spectrum to continue using the venue to exercise their First Amendment rights. It contains lines such as “As long as you’ve got a VOICE, don’t ever stop,” “As long as you’ve got TRUTH, don’t ever stop,” and “As long as you’ve got LOVE, don’t ever stop.” During the first week of the song’s release, Harrison has appeared on several shows including “The Todd Starnes Show” on Newsmax 2 (pictured above); Walter Sterling‘s “Sterling Every Damn Night” on WPHT, Philadelphia; Harry Hurley‘s “Hurley in the Morning” on WPG, Atlantic City; “The Dr. Daliah Wachs Show” on Talk Media Network; “The Talk Radio Countdown Show with Doug Stephan” on Radio America and Stephan Multimedia; “The Jeff Katz Show” on WRVA, Richmond; “Liberty Watch Radio with Charles Heller” on KVOI, Tuson; and “Joe Thomas in the Morning” on WTON, Taunton, VA and TMN. Appearances coming up Christmas week include “The Howie Carr Show on WRKO, Boston and the Howie Carr Radio Network; “The Other Side of Midnight with Frank Morano” on the Red Apple Audio Network” (including WABC, New York, WGN, Chicago); and more. Harrison uses the opportunity to discuss the virtues and importance of talk radio in American society, the rapid changes underway in media and technology, and the evolution of pop music as a means of social/political commentary. Harrison plans to book interviews into January of 2025 in support of the project. To arrange an interview, please email info@talkers.com. To view the “Don’t Stop Talking” music video, please click HERE.
Chris Stigall to Join Salem Radio Network in Lineup Shuffle
With the imminent departure of Salem Radio Network (SRN) star Sebastion Gorka to join the forthcoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump in an advisory position, longtime Salem Philadelphia morning star Chris Stigall of 980 AM WNTP will replace Hugh Hewitt in the 6:00 am – 9:00 am ET position starting January 13. That same day, Hewitt will move into Gorka’s daily 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm slot. Pictured above: Stigall addressing thousands of conservatives yesterday (12/19) at AmericaFest 2024 in Phoenix where SRN “introduced” him to a large swath of its core audience. AmericaFest is an annual rally hosted by Charlie Kirk of Turning Point USA – also an SRN personality.
Top News/Talk Media Stories this Past Week (12/9-13)
Here are the most talked about stories of the past week (12/9-13) on news/talk radio and related talk media according to TALKERS:
1. Mangione Murder Case / Health Care
2. Trump Nominations and Appointments
3. Government Shutdown Struggle
4. DOGE-Economy-Inflation-Tariffs-Stock Market
5. Migrant-Border Crisis / Madison School Shootings / Crime
6. Drones
7. Russia-Ukraine War / Middle East Unrest
8. Pelicot Rape Case
9. Big Tech Influence / Media Corruption-Bias
10. Amazon Workers Strike
To see the complete charts of the most talked about stories and people, please click HERE.
SABO SEZ: Get a New Job
By Walter Sabo
A.K.A. Walter M Sterling, Host
Sterling Every Damn Night, WPHT, Philadelphia
Sterling On Sunday, TMN
A surprising number of talented radio stars have been fired. Never understood why this is morally sanctioned between Thanksgiving and Christmas. The spreadsheet MBAs know it’s coming, a Halloween surprise would be kinder.
These suggestions might make the path to employment faster:
• No more stigma. Every industry has had massive lay-offs and job consolidation, being fired is not a reflection on you.
• The people who will help you are those who have already hired you. A prior employer wants to be proven-right. They want to see you succeed to validate their own decision. Make the list of everyone who has hired you, and call them. Don’t text or email. Call them. Ask for ADVICE. Not a job. Advice. They know your strengths and weaknesses. Ask who they know, who you should meet and what your approach should be.
• Present solutions, not a CV. Identify the exact company or person for whom you would like to work. What are their problems? Write down your solutions. Package it pretty. A written presentation of ideas is something an employer has to “deal with”—a CV can be filed. You don’t want to be filed, you want a meeting.
• In your meetings, demonstrate superior knowledge of the company and express nothing but joy for your prior employer.
• You don’t want a “job” you want to participate in a solution.
• Skip the job postings, those are already filled.
• John Molloy’s book Dress for Success is correct. Every single word.
• Study your social network of people outside of radio. Think of all of your connections and relationships. Who do other members of your family know? You may realize that you have connections to major advertisers, community big shots, bankers, investors, ad agencies, media buyers. Contact them and ask them for advice. You may hear, “I was at a community meeting with the president of a radio company…” Or, “We buy a lot of time on radio…” Try it.
• Finally don’t be stupid. Post nothing. Nope, not that.
• Time off is a gift at this time of year. Embrace the moment.
Consultant Walter Sabo A.K.A. Walter M Sterling has a nightly show “Sterling Every Damn Night” heard on WPHT, Philadelphia 10:00 pm – 1:00 am. His syndicated show, “Sterling On Sunday,” from Talk Media Network, airs Sundays 10:00 pm – 1:00 am ET, and is now in its 10th year of success. He can be reached by email at waltermsterling@gmail.com or Sabowalter@gmail.com.
KIRO Newsradio Welcomes Frank Lenzi as News Director
KIRO Newsradio, Seattle has named Frank Lenzi as its new news director. Frank joins KIRO from Seattle’s KNWN (formerly KOMO Newsradio), where he has worked for the past 16 years, most recently serving as program director and news director. 
With nearly 30 years of experience in journalism, Lenzi has held roles as morning editor, managing editor, and most recently, news director and program director at KNWN/KOMO. He led coverage of major events such as the 2009 Lakewood Police shooting, the 2014 KOMO TV helicopter crash, and the 2020 police dispersal of the Seattle CHOP Zone. Bonneville Seattle SVP/ market manager Cathy Cangiano tells TALKERS she’s eager for Lenzi to come aboard. “Frank’s extensive experience and proven leadership in the industry make him the perfect fit for our team. His dedication to journalistic excellence and his ability to inspire and lead will keep our newsroom standards high. We look forward to the fresh perspectives and innovative ideas he will bring to KIRO.” 
Bryan Buckalew, KIRO program director, echoed those sentiments. “Frank has a deep commitment to keeping audiences informed and connected. I’m confident he’ll be a great addition to our team.” Lenzi comments, “KIRO has always been the gold standard for radio journalism not only in the Seattle market, but across the country. It is an honor to lead this fine team of veteran broadcasters.” Lenzi will replace outgoing news director Charlie Harger, who will take over as host of “Seattle’s Morning News” on KIRO in January.
iHeartMedia Tampa Bay Adds FOX Sports Radio on Nights and Weekends at 95.3 WDAE / AM 620
iHeartMedia Tampa Bay announced (12/18) the addition of several FOX Sports Radio programs to the weekday and weekend lineup at 95.3 WDAE – “Tampa Bay’s Sports Radio,” effective Monday, December 23, 2024. 
WDAE’s weekday lineup, which already features “The Dan Patrick Show” and “The Herd with Colin Cowherd,” will now also broadcast FOX Sports Radio from 7:00 pm to 6:00 am ET, which includes “The Odd Couple with Kelvin Washington & Rob Parker,” “The Jason Smith Show with Mike Harmon,” and “The Ben Maller Show.” Additionally, WDAE will broadcast FOX Sports Radio around the clock on weekends. “We are thrilled to announce the further expansion of FOX Sports Radio programming to our lineup, which features the best sports content and personalities, both local and national,” said Nick Wize, WDAE program director. “We believe this expansion will provide our audience with even more engaging and insightful sports talk, continuing WDAE’s legacy as the ultimate meeting spot for the Tampa Bay sports fan.”
Jimmy Kimmel’s Fair Use Victory: What It Means for Content Creators
By Matthew B. Harrison
TALKERS, VP/Associate Publisher
Harrison Media Law, Senior Partner
Goodphone Communications, Executive Producer
In a recent high-profile case, late-night host Jimmy Kimmel successfully defended himself against a copyright infringement lawsuit brought by former congressman George Santos. The case, which centered on Kimmel’s use of prank videos involving Santos, highlights the ongoing importance of fair use protections for media creators, broadcasters, and digital content producers.
The dispute began when Kimmel used clips of prank videos that featured Santos as part of his comedic commentary on the “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” program. Santos alleged that Kimmel’s use of the videos constituted copyright infringement and sought damages, claiming unauthorized use of his content. However, the court ruled in favor of Kimmel, citing fair use as the primary defense. The judge noted that Kimmel’s use of the videos fell under fair use because it was transformative, used for commentary and criticism, and did not replace the original work’s market value.
This ruling has significant implications for media content creators. Fair use is a cornerstone of U.S. copyright law, allowing limited use of copyrighted material without permission for purposes such as commentary, criticism, news reporting, education, and parody. For broadcasters, YouTubers, podcasters, and other digital content creators, the Kimmel decision reaffirms that transformative use – where the original material is repurposed to add new meaning or context – is often protected under fair use.
The court’s emphasis on commentary and criticism is particularly relevant for creators who rely on existing media to produce content. For example, reaction videos, parodies, and satirical takes are common formats in digital media. The Kimmel case serves as a reminder that using copyrighted material to engage in meaningful critique or humor can fall squarely within fair use, provided the new work adds value and does not simply replicate the original.
However, this case also underscores the importance of understanding the boundaries of fair use. Creators should ensure their work meets key criteria: transformation of the original content, limited use, and a lack of negative impact on the original work’s market. While Kimmel’s team successfully navigated these elements, creators without the resources of a major broadcaster may face challenges if their work is contested.
Ultimately, Kimmel’s fair use victory is a win for free expression and creativity in media. It reinforces the ability of content creators to engage with and critique cultural moments without fear of legal repercussions, as long as their use aligns with fair use principles. For media creators navigating the digital landscape, this case provides both a legal precedent and a valuable lesson in the power of transformative content.
Media attorney, Matthew B. Harrison is VP/associate publisher, TALKERS; Senior Partner, Harrison Media Law; and executive producer, Goodphone Communications. He is available for private consultation and media industry contract representation. He can be reached by phone at 724.484.3529 or email at matthew@harrisonmedialaw.com
“Don’t Stop Talking” Video Getting Thousands of Views and Downloads – Anthemic Musical Tribute to Talk Radio – Edited Versions for Quick Airplay Now Available – Don’t Miss This!
Gunhill Road, the perennial pop music ensemble that has attracted hundreds of thousands of worldwide followers with its growing repertoire of issue-oriented songs and music videos, released an anthem late last week celebrating talk radio. “Don’t Stop Talking” is an uplifting and infectiously catchy tune about the vital role talk radio plays in supporting American freedom of speech and the First Amendment. Non-partisan lyrics ring out: “As long as you’ve got a voice, don’t ever stop!” and “As long as you’ve got the truth, don’t ever stop!” The original composition co-written by band members Steve Goldrich, Paul Reisch, Brian Koonin, and TALKERS publisher Michael Harrison encourages dedicated talk radio practitioners to keep up the good work and valuable service they provide the nation. The images accompanying the music include a dynamic montage of almost 100 individual radio talk hosts in the process of doing their shows. Matthew B. Harrison, who produced the rapidly-paced video components states, “Gunhill Road has achieved enormous internet recognition around the nation and world – much of it fueled by the attention and exposure its unique songs and videos have received on talk radio. This amazing piece is the group’s way of giving back.”
To view the video in its entirety, please click talkradioforever.com. To arrange an interview with Michael Harrison about the song and talk radio’s vital role in the marketplace of ideas, please email info@talkers.com. To download the 1:03 or :40 edits of the song, please click HERE or HERE
Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (12/18)
The top story yesterday (12/18) on news/talk radio and related media venues was the ongoing developments in the Luigi Mangione murder case followed closely by France’s Gisèle Pelicot mass rape trial. There was continuing conversation about and outrage over the tragic school shooting in Madison, WI. Also big: problems with the health care system, the ongoing drone sightings mystery/drama, and the latest developments in the Donald Trump Georgia criminal case including the disqualification of Fani Willis. Discussion also continued about the many facets of the presidential transition currently underway, the economy, and U.S. foreign relations according to the ongoing research of TALKERS.
New York Festivals Radio and TV & Film Awards Partners with JusticeAid to Launch the 2025 JusticeAid Award for Social Justice Storytelling
New York Festivals Radio and TV & Film Awards announce a new partnership with JusticeAid, a nonprofit organization dedicated to using art and music to raise awareness about civil rights challenges and inspire action for social justice.Together, they will launch the inaugural JusticeAid Award, a new honor that will recognize the highest-scoring entry across all Social Justice categories in the NYF TV & Film and Radio competitions.
The JusticeAid Award will be presented to the entry that demonstrates outstanding storytelling in addressing critical social justice issues. The winner will be determined by the esteemed NYF TV & Film Awards and Radio Awards Grand Juries, who will evaluate entries across a range of categories.
Categories within TV & Film Awards include News Program, News Report/Feature, Sports, Documentary, Entertainment Program, Entertainment Special, Promo, Streaming, Student, and Corporate Image.
NYF Radio Categories eligible for the award include News Program, News Report/Feature, Documentary, Entertainment, Promo, Digital, Podcast, and Student.
“With the JusticeAid Award, NYF shines a spotlight on the Social Justice categories across all genres and platforms encompassing Journalism and Entertainment categories alike. These stories show how individual actions can change the world and the ability of the human spirit to triumph over adversity,” states Rose Anderson, EVP/executive director of New York Festivals Radio and TV & Film Awards.
The first annual JusticeAid Award will be presented at the 2025 Storytellers Gala, a virtual event in the Spring 2025 celebrating global excellence in storytelling.
In 2024, over 180 award-winning teams worldwide shared their acceptances, while industry leaders spotlighted their creative journeys in special segments. Additionally, the JusticeAid Award-winning submission will be honored at the JusticeAid Concert in May 2025 in New York City, showcasing the transformative power of music and the arts to raise awareness for civil rights and inspire positive change.
The New York Festivals TV & Film and Radio Awards competitions receive entries from over 50 countries. Members of the Grand Jury panels vote to determine the Shortlists and final standings for Tower Trophies. The 2025 Storytellers Gala will honor trophy winners of both competitions in the spring.
The official deadline to enter the 2025 New York Festivals TV & Film Awards is December 31, 2024. For more information on the 2025 TV & Film Awards visit: HERE.
The official deadline to enter the 2025 Radio Awards is January 31, 2025. For more information on the 2025 Radio Awards visit: HERE.
TALKERS News Notes
CBS Radio is Offering its News/Talk Radio a Holiday Special. The show, titled “CBS News Radio Winter Holiday Special,” is three hours in length and hosted by legendary broadcaster, Gil Gross. It contains holiday fun and facts for airing December 20 through January 1 and available on FTP for multiple airings. Content includes: The story behind the most recorded holiday song of all time: “The Christmas Song,” written by Mel Torme and first recorded by Nat King Cole; The Anti-Santas: The scary monsters from legends around the world who frighten children into being good at Christmastime; and a celebration of the U.S. Marines Toys for Tots campaign, which has provided Christmas cheer around the globe for almost 80 years. Eight (8) minutes local / Six (6) minutes Net each hour. For information contact Amy Bolton at 646-734-2095 or BoltonA@cbsnews.com
Todd Starnes Offering Christmas Special to News/Talk Stations. KWAM, Memphis station owner and nationally syndicated TALKERS Heavy Hundred member Todd Starnes is hosting a three-hour radio Christmas special 
available free of charge to radio stations around the nation.Special guests include Gov. Mike Huckabee, actress Sam Sorbo, and Pastor Robert Jeffress. Stations interested in broadcasting the show should reach out to todd@starnesmediagroup.com.
“Inaugural History Minute” Original Scripts and Produced Features Available During Run Up to January 20. Reckoning that “Americans have never seemed more optimistic, eager for the second Trump administration agenda,” consultant Holland Cooke urges that radio “share the buzz” already building ahead of January 20.Cooke’s client stations are selling “Inaugural History Minute” features for air beginning January 5; and he’s offering the scripts for use elsewhere at HollandCooke.com. Worth looking into!
Monthly Podcast Listenership Among U.S. Latinos Up 72% From 2020
Edison Research with support from LWC Studios, Latino Media Network, Libsyn, SiriusXM Podcast Network, and Uforia Podcasts unveiled the fifth-year anniversary of the “Latino Podcast Listener Report 2024” in a webinar hosted by Gabriel Soto, senior director of research at Edison Research, Elsie Escobar, director of community and content at Libsyn, and Briana Mendez, senior sales marketing manager at SiriusXM Media.
The webinar offered up to five years of trending data and new findings about Latino podcast listeners as well as video interviews of podcast creators discussing how they’ve utilized the studies throughout the years. According to the study, 43% of U.S. Latinos age 18+ are monthly podcast listeners, a 72% increase since 2020 (25%).
Key findings include:
• Female listenership is up: Women now account for half of the U.S. Monthly Latino Listening population, making the composition of Latino podcast listeners 50% women and 50% men for the first time.
• Social media is a dominant source for podcast discovery: 47% of U.S. Latino monthly podcast listeners age 18+ first discovered podcasting by seeing it on social media, compared with 30% in 2020.
• YouTube gains share as the service used most often to listen to podcasts: 40% of U.S. Latino monthly podcast listeners age 18+ say they use YouTube the most to listen to podcasts – a 12-point increase from 2020. Thirty percent search on YouTube most often to find out about podcasts.
• Latino podcast listeners’ preference for video podcasts is up: Since 2021, U.S. Latino monthly podcast listeners age 18+ have increased their consumption of video that they actively watch while listening by 23% (2021: 70% vs. 2024: 86%), surpassing audio only podcasts at 72%.
• Gen Z and Millennial U.S. Latino listeners are more likely to listen or watch podcasts with other people: 43% of U.S. monthly Latino podcast listeners age 18+ have listened to or watched podcasts with others. Listeners aged 18–24 are 47% likely to share their podcast listening experience with others, those aged 25–34 are 46%, and those aged 35–44 are the most likely to listen to or watch podcasts with others at nearly half (49%).
• Latinos are spending most of their days with podcasts for entertainment: 78% of U.S. monthly Latino podcast listeners age 18+ “strongly agree” or “somewhat agree” that they listen to podcasts when they want to be entertained – an 8-point increase since 2020.
“Latinos have been trailblazers in podcasting, driving trends from leading the early adoption of YouTube to fueling the rise of video podcast consumption,” said Elsie Escobar, Director of Community and Content at Libsyn. Beyond educational content, Latino listeners are embracing a broader range of podcasts, from entertainment to inspirational stories. This growing diversity creates exciting opportunities for advertisers to connect with a vibrant audience and align brand messaging with their lifestyle interests and values.”
Soto says, “The number of Latinos consuming video podcasts has surpassed the number of those listening to audio-only shows. If the young Latino demographic is any indication of how listening will take shape among the rest of the podcast audience, podcasters will have another reason to consider video as part of their content.”
Click here to download the report.
Vince Benedetto of Bold Gold Media is this week’s Guest on Harrison Podcasts Discussing the Leadership Qualities of Winston Churchill
Vince Benedetto – founder, president and CEO of Bold Gold Media Group – is this week’s guest on the award-winning PodcastOne series “The Michael Harrison Interview.” The video version is posted on The TALKERS YouTube channel program, “Up Close Far Out.” In addition to being a radio industry rising star among station owners, Benedetto is an accomplished history buff. Harrison and Benedetto engage in a fascinating character study of British Prime Minister Winston Churchill. They draw lessons for a better understanding of the demands of leadership in modern times. Bold Gold Media Group owns and operates 15 broadcast radio stations throughout Pennsylvania and New York. Benedetto started the company and acquired his first four radio stations at the age of 29. This remarkable man is a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, a former Air Force Captain and Air Force OSI Special Agent, where he worked on counterintelligence, counterterrorism and felony level investigative efforts for the Department of Defense. With a desire to be a media entrepreneur, Benedetto separated from the Air Force in his late 20s and formed Bold Gold, where his growing portfolio of radio stations has become a leader in social and digital media engagement. Benedetto serves as the chairman of the board of the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters (PAB). He is a member of the Radio Advertising Bureau’s ‘Sales Advisory Committee’ (SAC). He also serves on the Board of Directors of the International Churchill Society (ICS) and is president of the Churchill Society of Pennsylvania. Don’t miss this illuminating conversation about vital American/world history and its connection to the most important character issues of modern times. To listen to the podcast in its entirety, please click HERE. To view the video in its entirety, please click HERE.
Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (12/17)
The top story yesterday (12/17) on news/talk radio and related media venues remained the tragic school shooting in Madison, WI followed by continuing heavy conversation about the UnitedHealthcare CEO murder, problems with the health care system, and the ongoing drone sightings mystery/drama. Discussion also continued about the many facets of the presidential transition currently underway, the economy, and U.S.-Canada relations according to the ongoing research of TALKERS.
Audacy Receives Major Community Leadership Award
Audacy has received the Travis Manion Foundation (TMF) Award, highlighting the company’s commitment to serving the military community. This award is presented to organizations that go above and beyond to support fallen heroes, veterans, and military families. Audacy, led by the Philadelphia team and 1210 WPHT has been a long-time supporter of TMF, raising money and awareness for the organization’s mission. TMF is the beneficiary of WPHT’s annual “Talk Radio 1210 Radiothon” and Sports Radio 94WIP’s annual “WIP Birds at the Bye” event. The company was honored (12/12) at TMF’s 2024 “If Not Me, Then Who…” Gala. Audacy CEO/president David Field accepted the award and offered remarks: “On behalf of my colleagues at Audacy, we are humbled to receive this recognition. We admire and salute the Foundation for its extraordinary work making a meaningful, often life-changing impact on the lives of veterans, the families of fallen heroes, and young people finding their way in our increasingly challenging world,” said Field. “TMF makes an enormous difference through its various programs that elevate lives, foster strong character and leadership and add meaning, purpose, and comfort. We hope to serve TMF as a loyal partner for many years to come.” The Travis Manion Foundation is a non-profit organization that empowers veterans and families of fallen heroes to develop character in future generations. TMF offers a variety of programs that help veterans and families of fallen heroes to heal, grow, and serve others. The inspiration for the foundation comes from 1st Lt Travis Manion, USMC, who made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety of his patrol in 2007. TMF carries on the legacy of selfless service and leadership embodied by Travis and all those who have served or continue to serve our nation. Pictured above: members of Audacy Philadelphia at TMF’s 2024 “If Not Me, Then Who…” Gala.
LOOKING AHEAD: Triton Digital Execs Provide Insights as to Market Direction in ’25
Executives from Triton Digital – aglobal technology and services leader to the digital audio, podcast, and broadcast radio industries – are providing TALKERS readers 
with their insights into how audio marketing spending will evolve, how YouTube is impacting the podcasting industry, the growth of contextual targeting tools, and more for the coming year:
• Sharon Taylor, EVP podcast and content delivery: Brands and publishers will respond to a heightened focus on brand suitability by adopting tailored, podcast-specific solutions that integrate contextual curation tools.
These tools will not only proactively guide brands on optimal content alignment but also streamline ad buying processes through automation and data-driven insights, reducing the need for extensive manual intervention. This approach will power precise content targeting and scale reach effectively, all while ensuring brand messages align seamlessly with the right contexts and audiences.
• Stephanie Donovan, chief revenue officer: The global advertising industry will exceed one trillion dollars by year’s end and is poised for continued growth in 2025, fueled by economic expansion across the United States, Australia and regions like Europe and Southeast Asia.
Digital audio marketing spend worldwide will increase 10% next year, in part due to key drivers including the rise of contextual targeting, allowing advertisers to immerse their message within relevant content, and utilizing the growing versatility of dynamic audio insertion to make scaling campaigns more efficient. Additionally, the rapid growth of influencer marketing on TikTok and X is cooling, with marketers increasing spend on podcasts where creators can cultivate more meaningful audience connections. This growth in audio spending will heighten the insistence for transparency as advertisers demand greater visibility into performance metrics and content alignment to ensure trust and accountability. This convergence will solidify audio’s position as a successful channel for integrated marketing strategies worldwide.
• Daryl Battaglia, SVP measurement: In 2025, the number of podcast listeners will grow at a faster rate than in previous years. 
While podcasting will remain fundamentally audio-first, driven by convenience and flexibility, consumers now have more options for how they discover and consume content. YouTube is bringing in new, first-time podcast consumers with a different audience profile. In some cases, they are watching shorter length content or on additional devices other than mobile. Informed by insights about their audience, publishers and creators will be able to deliver an engaged experience across listening platforms and devices, and grow reach.
• Ben Masse, chief product officer: The audio advertising industry will integrate AI more into their tech stack to scale campaigns and audience targeting. 
More specifically, the focus will be on enabling humans to automate tasks so they can focus on strategy. AI will be leveraged to drive more effective and efficient spending, including helping achieve yield for publishers and meaningful campaign outcomes for advertisers, as well as content analysis and audience insights. This tech shift will put a bigger emphasis on having robust data-backed insights on audiences, content, and campaign performance.
• Emanuele Rampichini, head of engineering:The podcasting industry will see publishers increasingly_diversify into subscription-based revenues and build deeper relationships with dedicated audiences while reducing reliance on traditional ad models_**.** 
This approach will be particularly transformative for long-tail podcasters and creators with smaller followings, offering a sustainable revenue stream that can be both a growth and retention strategy. For creators with niche audiences, subscriptions provide a viable alternative to ads and ensure the lion’s share of the revenue goes directly to the creator. As platforms invest more in these tools, creators will be able to engage directly with their subscribers through integrated communication features and eliminate the need for third-party tools. This evolution promises to empower indie creators by streamlining their workflows and enhancing their ability to cultivate loyal audiences.
• Rebecca Dalby, vice president of demand: The demand for precision in audio advertising is growing, making nuanced and contextual targeting more essential than ever.
As advertisers prioritize accurate audience engagement, the shift toward contextual targeting is gaining significant traction. This trend is expected to drive more ad dollars into solutions that deliver measurable results. Innovative technology that amplifies the ability to connect with highly specific audiences at scale and helps meet advertisers’ evolving expectations will win. For publishers, this surge in demand for targeted ad placements unlocks exciting opportunities to expand inventory and enhance reach through strategic partnerships within digital audio networks.
Triton Digital, LLC is a worldwide digital audio technology and advertising company. For more info visit TritonDigital.com.
Audacy Extends K-Dawn (KDWN) Las Vegas Steve Sanchez Contract Through 2025
Audacy has extended the contract of talk show host Steve Sanchez for another year through 2025. Sanchez is heard weekdays 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm and hosts a “carefully curated best-of” program Sundays 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm. 
Sanchez was recently featured on Soledad O’ Brien‘s documentary with Scripps Media regarding Latinos in talk radio and how they were swaying the election in the swing state of Nevada (“In Real Life: War on La Radio). Sanchez says, “It is a thrill to be dominating my daypart in format and I feel my audience growing exponentially right now. It’s a pleasure serving the Las Vegas market with the legendary station KDWN.” Sanchez has been named one of the 100 Most Important Radio Talk Show Hosts in America with his inclusion in the TALKERS 2022 Talkers Heavy Hundred. In 2020, this rising talk radio star was named #25 of the top 30 influencers in Las Vegas by LV magazine.
Yesterday’s Top News/Talk Media Stories (12/16)
The top story yesterday (12/16) on news/talk radio and related media venues was the tragic school shooting in Madison, WI. That was followed by continuing heavy conversation about the UnitedHealthcare CEO murder and the ongoing drone sightings mystery/drama. Discussion also continued about the many facets of the presidential transition currently underway and the economy according to the ongoing research of TALKERS.
MONDAY MEMO: I’ll Be On Assignment For You at CES
By Holland Cooke
Consultant
If you work in radio, you are painfully aware that Artificial Intelligence is changing our lives. Ironically, AI will be the big story at the mega-event presented by what began 100 years ago as the Radio Manufacturers’ Association. Since then, it evolved into the Consumer Electronics Association, now the Consumer Technology Association. So – although next month’s extravaganza is still nicknamed “CES” — we are under strict instructions NOT to call it the “Consumer Electronics Show” anymore.
Yes, there will be acres and acres of gadgets in a Las Vegas Convention Center so sprawling that – if you want to get from one end to the other — Elon Musk will give you a free ride, underground. He has a hundred Teslas zipping through a tunnel his Boring Company is… boring. Picture a high-tech Batcave. Ultimately, they’re planning 93 stations across 68 miles of tunnel linking the Strip, downtown, and elsewhere. These cars have drivers… for now.
Some 150,000 of us, from 155 countries, will be swarming in Sin City to celebrate the obsolescence of what was shiny-and-new last year, and to see new game-changers unveiled. Not just things. Think experiences, like Uber and Zoom and robust smartphone video, which 4G enabled. With 5G we got remote surgery, precision agriculture, and interactive live events. 6G? Stay tuned.
HERE’S THE COOL PART: So, as I have in past years, I am offering TALKERS readers daily 60-second CES reports for air Monday 1/6 to Friday 1/10. Simply download each report from my website the night before. No charge, no paperwork, no national spot. If you sell a local sponsorship, keep the money. For a sample report you can use to pitch, hit HollandCooke.com.
Holland Cooke (HollandCooke.com) is a consultant working the intersection of broadcasting and the Internet. Follow HC on Twitter @HollandCooke and connect on LinkedIn
TALKERS News Notes
Rich Eisen Will Replace Jim Rome in the 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET Time Slot on the Radio on Infinity Sports Network in Early 2025.According to the New York Post, 
“The Jim Rome Show” – nicknamed “The Jungle” – will be moving to the 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm ET slot and be independently syndicated by Westwood One. Rome hinted at the news when he teased a big show announcement for Monday in a post on X over the weekend. Infinity is a partnership between Audacy and Westwood One. Rich Eisen’s show can also be found on Roku and every relevant podcast platform,
with highlights additionally posted on YouTube and through a Yahoo Sports portal. Eisen was previously a part of iHeart’s Fox Sports Radio lineup, and since exiting that network in 2020 he’s been syndicated by Westwood One.The rest of the Infinity lineup includes shows hosted by Maggie Gray and Andrew Perloff, Bill Reiter and Zach Gelb. To read the entire New York Post story, please click HERE.
Kicking off 2025, Stephanie Miller’s Live “Sexy Liberal Show” Books January Date at Warner Theater in DC. 
Progressive talk radio legend Stephanie Miller and her long-running, successful live review, “The Sexy Liberal Show,” have booked an upcoming appearance on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the historic Warner Theater in Washington, DC. In addition to Miller, the program features regulars, John Fugelsang, Hal Sparks, and Frangela (Francis Callier and Angela V. Shelton). The show’s producers tell TALKERS, this evolving live road show gives Miller fans (“Steph Heads”) the opportunity “to rally the resistance, laugh through the chaos, and gear up for the fight ahead.” As is customary, the show will also feature soon-to-be-announced special guests. For those who cannot make it in person to the show, it will be available via pay-per-view. For more information, please click HERE.
“Don’t Stop Talking” Video Getting Thousands of Views and Downloads – Anthemic Musical Tribute to Talk Radio – Edited Versions for Quick Airplay Now Available
Gunhill Road, the perennial pop music ensemble that has attracted hundreds of thousands of worldwide followers with its growing repertoire of issue-oriented songs and music videos, released an anthem late last week celebrating talk radio. “Don’t Stop Talking” is an uplifting and infectiously catchy tune about the vital role talk radio plays in supporting American freedom of speech and the First Amendment. Non-partisan lyrics ring out: “As long as you’ve got a voice, don’t ever stop!” and “As long as you’ve got the truth, don’t ever stop!” The original composition co-written by band members Steve Goldrich, Paul Reisch, Brian Koonin, and Michael Harrison encourages dedicated talk radio practitioners to keep up the good work and valuable service they provide the nation. The images accompanying the music include a dynamic montage of almost 100 individual radio talk hosts in the process of doing their shows. Matthew B. Harrison, who produced the video visual components states, “Gunhill Road has achieved enormous internet recognition around the nation and world – much of it fueled by the attention and exposure its unique songs and videos have received on talk radio. This amazing piece is the group’s way of giving back.”
To view the video in its entirety, please click talkradioforever.com. To arrange an interview with Michael Harrison about the song and talk radio’s vital role in the marketplace of ideas, please email info@talkers.com. To download the 1:03 or :40 edits of the song, please click HERE or HERE
Free Fisher House Radio Special for the Entire Holiday Season
Fisher House Foundation is announcing a Holiday Season edition of “The Fisher House Story.” Hear the demo and register today at radio.fisherhouse.org. “The Fisher House Story” is provided in varying lengths for news/talk radio stations as well as 30-minute public affairs show for all formats in the U.S. and around the world.
The free 3-hour, 1-hour, 25- and 30-minute radio specials are hosted by long-time WMAL, Washington, DC radio personality Larry O’Connor and feature stories of our nation’s heroes, the families who serve by their side, and how Fisher House plays a role in their journey. This program is appropriate for the entire Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year season and is a fitting and inspirational holiday programming alternative for all formats. The show features interviews with wounded warriors and veterans including heroes from Operation Enduring Freedom, the Vietnam War and an incredible, emotional story of one of America’s World War II living legends. Listeners will hear their stories fighting for our freedoms, the injuries and illnesses they endured. and the welcoming homes Fisher House provides for them and their loved ones while they go through their painful and painstaking recoveries. Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home for families of patients receiving medical care at major military and VA medical centers. For more information on this radio special, available cash and barter free, contact TALKERS Heavy Hundred member Larry O’Connor at 562-665-9537 or loconnor@fisherhouse.org.