Worldwide News Network is building out its talent roster as it rapidly approaches its debut. Some former CBS News Radio members are part of the initial team.
What We Know: Worldwide News Network will debut at Midnight ET on Saturday, May 23rd. The network will provide newscasts at the top and bottom of every hour, seven days per week. With the end of CBS News Radio approaching, four former members of the network are joining Worldwide News Network. Michael Wallace, Cooper Lawrence, Bill Rehkopf, and Matt Pieper are all joining the network’s team.
What They Said: “We are assembling top-tier journalists and building a modern radio news operation rooted in speed, authority, and facts — one that stations can rely on and listeners can trust.” -Worldwide News Network and WABC Radio Vice President of News Lee Harris
“There is a huge opening right now for credible, immediate, no-nonsense reporting. Listeners want to know what happened, why it matters, and what’s happening next. That’s the lane Worldwide News Network is taking.” -Red Apple Media, Red Apple Audio Networks, WABC Radio President Chad Lopez
“Our mission is to be the most trusted news gathering organization in media. We are creating a powerful, around-the-clock newsroom designed to compete at the highest level of broadcast audio news. Facts are what will drive the Worldwide News Network. We’re looking forward to our expansion in the European markets.” -Red Apple Media CEO/Owner John Catsimatidis
What Remains Unclear: If any other former CBS News Radio personnel will also be joining the start-up network. The network’s final broadcast is slated for next Friday, May 22nd.
What It Means: Red Apple Media is serious about competing in the space. That was already clear with the appointment of Lee Harris as VP of News. But the addition of strong voices like Michael Wallace, Cooper Lawrence, Bill Rehkopf, and Matt Pieper shows how committed the company is to filling the void vacated by the end of CBS News Radio.
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Garrett Searight is Barrett Media’s News Editor, which includes writing daily news stories, features, and opinion columns. He joined Barrett Media in 2022 after a decade leading several radio brands in several formats, as well as a 5-year stint working in local television. In addition to his work with Barrett Media, he is a radio and TV play-by-play broadcaster. Reach out to him at Garrett@BarrettMedia.com.
