John Fredericks Media Network is expanding again. WAKM-AM in Franklin, Tennessee, is joining its growing portfolio.
What We Know: John Fredericks Media Network has reached an agreement to purchase WAKM-AM, adding another Tennessee signal to its expanding news/talk footprint. The acquisition strengthens the company’s presence in Middle Tennessee, where it already owns WENO-AM in nearby Nashville. Over the past several years, the company has steadily added radio properties in multiple markets while expanding its distribution of news, talk, and sports programming. As a result, the purchase gives John Fredericks Media Network another outlet in one of the state’s fastest-growing regions and further extends its regional reach.
What They Said: “As we continue to grow across America, Tennessee is a key market for our future. Our mission is simple: deliver compelling News-Talk-Sports programming that people can’t get anywhere else. We’re building platforms that serve our audience – not shareholders – and this expansion is another major step in that vision. We’re proving that News-Talk and Sports belong together. Our audience wants breaking news, honest opinion, and the teams they love – all from one trusted source. That’s exactly what we’re delivering.” -John Fredericks
What Remains Unclear: Neither the purchase price nor a closing timeline has been disclosed. In addition, the company hasn’t announced whether WAKM-AM will retain its current programming or transition to content produced by John Fredericks Media Network after the sale closes.
What It Means: The acquisition continues John Fredericks Media Network’s aggressive expansion strategy. By pairing WAKM-AM with WENO-AM in nearby Nashville, the company gains broader coverage across the Nashville metropolitan area. Furthermore, the move reinforces Fredericks’ belief that news/talk and sports programming can complement one another while giving the network another platform to grow its audience and advertisers.
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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.