97.1 The Fan is continuing to build its digital footprint, this time adding a new Ohio State-focused show with Austin Ward and Jeremy Birmingham.
Austin & Birm will be seen on YouTube, as well as the 10TV+ app from sister station WBNS-TV, the CBS affiliate in Columbus. It made its debut on Wednesday.
“This partnership is exciting for me on so many levels,” Ward said. “I’m incredibly proud of the work Birm and I have done covering Ohio State as a team, and I’ve loved getting to work with the talented people at 97.1 The Fan and 10TV over the last couple of years. This feels like the perfect opportunity to grow our shows while continuing to tell the stories of the Buckeyes for the most passionate fans in the country.”
It marks a return to the station for Ward, who previously worked at 97.1 The Fan.
“I’ve long admired the way The Fan and 10TV have covered the Buckeyes, and it’s an honor to be part of that team,” Birmingham said. “Austin and I are passionate about telling the stories that matter to Ohio State fans, and this partnership gives us an incredible platform to keep doing what we love for the most dedicated fans in college sports.”
The hiring of the duo comes after they were recently dismissed from digital venture THE Media. In a lawsuit filed in April, the two were accused of taking money from sponsorship and advertisements earmarked for NIL deals for Ohio State football players for themselves. The lawsuit alleges that Ward and Birmingham admitted to the scheme. However, both have continually denied any wrongdoing.
The addition of Austin Ward and Jeremy Birmingham comes on the heels of 97.1 The Fan placing more focus on its digital efforts. It recently announced that popular morning host Bobby Carpenter will move to a digital-exclusive show in morning drive, pitting it in competition with the station’s new morning show featuring Jonathan “T-Bone” Smith and Tyvis Powell.
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