Beyond The Bench is coming back Monday. Former KXnO hosts Sean Roberts and Lucas Strain confirmed a return date following their cease-and-desist standoff with iHeartMedia.
What We Know: iHeartMedia laid off Roberts and Strain from KXnO this summer during nationwide cuts. Weeks later, the pair launched Beyond The Bench on the Rush Radio Network, a digital outlet founded by former KXnO hosts Travis Justice and Ross Peterson. Soon after, iHeartMedia issued a cease-and-desist over allegations of a reported non-compete violation, forcing the show offline. Now, the hosts have set a firm comeback date.
What They Said: Beyond The Bench (via X): “We’re Back. Monday. 4 pm. Be there.”
What Remains Unclear: Whether or not the legal dispute with iHeartMedia continues or has moved on. Roberts and Strain have not commented on the matter publically since being served the cease and desist by their former employer.
What It Means: The announcement suggests the non-compete hurdle has cleared, at least for now. While neither Roberts nor Strain have commented on the matter, there could still be litigation ongoing between legal counsel and iHeartMedia while allowing the show to continue on. Consequently, this journey offers a possible blueprint for other laid-off hosts eyeing independent ventures. For Roberts and Strain, Monday’s relaunch will test whether the layoff drama helped or hurt their audience. Either way, the industry will be watching closely.
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.