Talk Media Network and AccuMinute will debut America’s Morning News in the national morning market later this month. The program will debut as Westwood One prepares to end its four-decade run with America in the Morning.
What We Know: America’s Morning News will launch nationally on Monday, September 21st, airing live from 5-6 AM ET. Rich Johnson will host the new program, which AccuMinute will produce and Talk Media Network will distribute. Jeff McKay will serve as producer after holding the same role with America in the Morning. Meanwhile, Westwood One will end America in the Morning after more than 40 years. The network will replace the longtime program with The Bongino Report AM, hosted by Dan Bongino. As a result, America’s Morning News will give stations another option as the national morning landscape shifts.
What They Said: “Stations shouldn’t have to replace a decades-long show on a few weeks’ notice. We are providing a smooth transition, with a strong brand for both mornings and weekend airplay.” -Talk Media Network founder Josh Leng
“Mornings are built on habits. Our goal is to make America’s Morning News part of that daily routine.” -AccuMinute co-founder Gary Lee
What Remains Unclear: The launch comes with several moving parts for stations preparing their fall schedules. However, the September 21st debut gives affiliates a clear target as they evaluate their morning programming options.
What It Means: The launch adds another nationally syndicated option as stations lose a longtime Westwood One morning staple. Moreover, McKay’s involvement provides continuity for stations familiar with America in the Morning. Johnson and the America’s Morning News team will now compete for affiliates and audience attention during a critical morning daypart. Ultimately, the show’s success will depend on its ability to build habitual listening and deliver a compelling alternative for News/Talk Radio stations.
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