Worldwide News Network is expanding its audio news portfolio. The network has launched weekend business reports with WTOP as its first affiliate.
What We Know: Worldwide News Network debuted WWNN Weekend Business Reports on Saturday, Aug. 1, with Hubbard Broadcasting’s WTOP in Washington, D.C. serving as the service’s first affiliate. The new feature delivers weekend coverage of the markets, economy, and companies driving growth. Rather than offering only market recaps, the reports also examine industries including automotive, technology, and entertainment while highlighting emerging trends and innovative businesses. Meanwhile, veteran journalists John Terrett and Jake Novak anchor and produce the reports. Terrett brings decades of experience with organizations including the BBC and CNBC, while Novak adds more than 25 years of broadcast experience covering global markets and geopolitical developments. The launch also marks another step in Worldwide News Network’s broader effort to expand its original programming lineup for radio affiliates across the U.S. and internationally.
What They Said: “Our listeners want and need insightful financial and business news they can trust, and they depend on us to deliver it every day of the week. As the industry has contracted over the last few years, it has left a void. It is exciting to work with a company like WWNN that understands the importance of providing quality reporting seven days of the week.” – WTOP Director of News and Programming Julia Ziegler
“WWNN is not simply filling the gap left by the demise of the CBS Radio Network. We’re building something stronger and more relevant for today’s audience. John and Jake bring extraordinary experience and credibility, and more importantly, they know how to make complicated financial and economic stories understandable, compelling, and actionable. That’s what makes these reports different.” – Worldwide News Network Senior Vice President of News & Programming Lee Harris
What Remains Unclear: WWNN hasn’t announced when additional affiliates will begin carrying the reports or how frequently new stations will join the network. The company also hasn’t detailed future expansion plans beyond the weekend business product.
What It Means: Weekend business reporting has become less common as network radio news operations have contracted. As a result, Worldwide News Network is positioning itself to serve stations seeking fresh financial coverage throughout the week. If additional affiliates sign on, the new service could strengthen WWNN’s presence while giving radio stations another syndicated option for business and economic news.
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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.