WABC is going global. Red Apple Media Owner and CEO John Catsimatidis announced the launch of The Worldwide News Network — a 24/7 audio news platform built for worldwide distribution.
What We Know: Radio Hall of Fame inductee Lee Harris signs on as Vice President of News for WABC Radio and The Worldwide News Network. Harris brings 30 years of newsroom leadership — including morning anchor duties at 1010 WINS and a role as Director of Integrated Operations for NewsNation. WABC Radio currently reaches all 50 states and 178 countries.
What They Said: John Catsimatidis: “Today’s digital technology gives us the power to deliver the truth instantly, not just across America, but across Europe and around the globe. The Worldwide News Network is the natural next step in building a global destination for fair, balanced, no-nonsense news people can trust.”
Chad Lopez, President of Red Apple Media and WABC Radio: “Audio news consumption is no longer confined by geography, signal strength, or time zone. Listeners want immediate access to credible reporting wherever they are, whenever news breaks. Lee is one of the most respected and accomplished news professionals in the business, and there is no one better equipped to help build this operation into a global audio news force.”
Lee Harris: “John Catsimatidis has never thought small, and this venture is no exception. The Worldwide News Network is an ambitious, forward-looking news platform designed for how people consume information today. I am thrilled to join Red Apple Media and WABC Radio at such a transformational moment and help build a news organization with both national strength and international reach.”
What Remains Unclear: Although the announcement is significant, Catsimatidis and his team have not yet confirmed launch timing or affiliate partnership details. Furthermore, the bigger question is which network local stations will choose to fill the void left by CBS News Radio — WABC, Fox News Radio, ABC News Radio, NBC News 24/7, Talk Media Network, Compass Media Networks, or Bloomberg.
What It Means: WABC Radio already thrives in New York City and now seeks to compete on a global stage. As a result, hiring Lee Harris signals serious intent. He brings credibility, presence, and exceptional news judgment to the operation. Additionally, the move positions Red Apple Media as a formidable global audio news competitor at precisely the right moment.
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Jason Barrett is the Founder and CEO of Barrett Media. The company launched in September 2015 and has provided consulting services to America’s top audio and video brands, while simultaneously covering the media industry at BarrettMedia.com, becoming a daily destination for media professionals. Prior to Barrett Media, Jason built and programmed 95.7 The Game in San Francisco, and 101 ESPN in St. Louis. He was also the first sports programmer for SportsTalk 950 in Philadelphia, which later became 97.5 The Fanatic. Barrett also led 590 The Fan KFNS in St. Louis, and ESPN 1340/1390 in Poughkeepsie, NY, and worked on-air and behind the scenes at 101.5 WPDH, WTBQ 1110AM, and WPYX 106.5. He also spent two years at ESPN Radio in Bristol, CT producing ‘The Dan Patrick Show’ and ‘GameNight’. JB can be reached on Twitter @SportsRadioPD or by email at Jason@BarrettMedia.com.
