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2026 Midterms: What News/Talk Radio Hosts Need to Know and Remember

Pete Mundo
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2026 Midterms: What News/Talk Radio Hosts Need to Know and Remember

The 2026 Midterms are coming, the 2026 Midterms are coming! We’ve flipped the calendar to May, and we are weeks away from states across the country holding primaries before the general election in November.

It will be a time for candidates to make their pitches to your audience, for you to analyze the local races as they ebb and flow through the primary and general elections, and for you to find out who the rising stars are in your backyard.

As we get set for this silly, but oftentimes entertaining season, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Why Endorse in a Primary?

    I see news/talk hosts occasionally dip their toes into the water of endorsements, most notably in primaries, and I always wonder, “Why?”

    What are you getting out of this? What’s the value in you potentially alienating a portion of the audience so you can act like you’re backing a “winner”? And do you lose out on interviewing other candidates who don’t want to come on your show because you’ve already picked a horse in the race?

    Also, if that person doesn’t win, and then the opponent goes on to win a general election, they’ll never forget the fact that you endorsed in a primary in favor of one of their opponents.

    It’s a classic example of your downside far outweighing your upside. Your endorsement doesn’t carry as much weight as you think, and you risk potentially damaging a key relationship and connection with your audience.

    And considering your job is ultimately to put on the most entertaining and informative show possible, potentially losing that ability to book a key guest in a big, local political position is a loss for your audience.

    Don’t Overdo Candidate Interviews

      This may seem counterintuitive to my last point, but it’s not intended to be that way. Having the candidates is far less valuable than having access to the eventual winner of the election. Once they’re in office, that relationship is gold.

      But as a candidate, it’s very rare you’re going to get a ton of great insight, or that “can’t-miss” sound byte. These candidates are so over-protected by the political consulting class that they are playing it safer than ever before. Plus, most regular listeners are just mildly engaged or focused on a primary until we get down to crunch time in the last couple of weeks.

      Then, it’s like college, where everyone is cramming for their final exam. But months or weeks out, the occasional interview — if any at all — will do just fine. Don’t overdo it with the usual cliché answers that mean nothing, especially when most of the audience isn’t focused on the race yet anyway. And think about how much money that airtime would be worth had they paid for it. It’s likely thousands of dollars. So make them earn it.

      I know for some hosts, booking the guest is important, but it has to be the right guest on the right day that moves the needle for the right reasons. Guests and candidates, for the sake of it, are not going to achieve that goal.

      Not All Races Are Created Equally

        Depending on your market, you may have multiple states with multiple races in each one. State-wide campaigns, congressional races, local county races, or municipal elections — they all matter in their own way, but pick and choose your times to talk about them. When there is something controversial in a race, jump on that one, even if it’s not the “biggest” of the bunch. It’s a good excuse to show your local chops and talk about anything controversial that may be happening in that race.

        Think about races that are key for your hot zips, or races that impact hot zips that you want to have more of a presence in. The point is to be strategic. Don’t just talk about a race because, well, you think you should.

        It’s OK to go days without talking about any local race if it’s weeks away and there’s nothing new to report. Don’t force it.

        As you gear up for your local races, protect your station and show with a smart, creative strategy that keeps the election in the news cycle without letting it own everything you do on the air.

        Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

        MS NOW Practices What It Preaches About Digital Content

        Garrett Searight
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        MS NOW Practices What It Preaches About Digital Content

        MS NOW knows its future isn’t being built on cable. And to its credit, it’s not pretending otherwise.

        That’s the clearest takeaway from remarks made by MS NOW President Rebecca Kutler about the network’s evolving digital strategy.

        She laid it out plainly, identifying two distinct audiences — what she calls “super fans” engaging with linear content upward of nine hours a week, and a larger pool of “future fans” who are already consuming MS NOW content outside of traditional television. The goal, she said, is to build something in the digital space that brings those future fans into the community.

        It’s an honest assessment. More importantly, it’s the right one.

        Too often, legacy media organizations talk about digital transformation without actually committing resources to it. MS NOW isn’t making that mistake. The evidence is in the numbers, and the numbers are hard to argue with.

        The Proof is in the Pudding

        In April alone, MS NOW came just shy of 10 million podcast downloads — a 34% increase compared to April 2025. That’s not incremental growth. That’s a meaningful surge, and it reflects a deliberate investment in the podcast space. Hosts like Chris Hayes, Rachel Maddow, Symone Sanders Townsend, and Eugene Daniels have all been given new platforms to extend their reach beyond cable. When talent of that caliber gets room to grow, audiences follow.

        Then there’s YouTube. Through the first four months of 2026, MS NOW has accumulated more than a billion views on the platform. Let that number breathe for a second — a billion views. Kutler noted that NBC News, CBS News, and ABC News combined haven’t matched what MS NOW has built on YouTube. That’s a remarkable data point, and it doesn’t happen by accident. It takes investment, consistency, and a clear strategic vision for what digital engagement is supposed to accomplish.

        Why does this matter so urgently for MS NOW specifically? Because the network carries the oldest average audience in cable news. That’s not an insult — it’s a demographic reality that demands a response. If the network doesn’t find ways to cultivate younger viewers now, the audience gap only widens. Digital platforms like YouTube and TikTok aren’t just bonus distribution channels. For MS NOW, they’re lifelines to the next generation of news consumers.

        Kutler and her team understand that. The strategy she’s outlined isn’t vague or aspirational — it’s grounded in actual platform behavior and honest about where linear television’s limits are. She’s not overselling cable’s future. She’s building around it.

        The Future

        Give Rebecca Kutler and the MS NOW executive team their due. In a media landscape where plenty of organizations are still catching up to digital realities they’ve been warned about for a decade, MS NOW is making smart moves. The podcast growth is real. The YouTube dominance is real. The commitment to talent-driven digital expansion is real.

        None of that guarantees long-term success. Digital platforms shift, algorithms change, and audience behavior is never fully predictable. But the foundation MS NOW is building — rooted in data, driven by talent, and honest about where its future audience actually lives — gives it a legitimate shot at remaining relevant well beyond the cable era.

        That’s worth acknowledging. And in this industry, it’s worth studying.

        Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

        The Password Mistakes That Almost Everyone Still Makes

        Bob Lawrence
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        The Password Mistakes That Almost Everyone Still Makes

        I roll my eyes whenever I receive an annoying email or text that says, “You have not changed your password in a while. Would you like to change it now?” It seems like I get one at least every other week. Sometimes they’re fake, so I have to double-check the source.

        In truth, password reminders do need to be taken seriously. Sadly, I’m probably as guilty as anyone and don’t stick to security rules well enough.

        Cybersecurity has become far more than just an IT issue. I’m reminded what Sonny Corleone said in The Godfather. “Tom, this is business. This man is taking it very, very personal.” Business and personal worlds have collided in today’s hyper-connected environment. Every email account, banking app, customer database, and cloud platform represents a potential entry point for hackers.

        Companies are investing more than ever in firewalls and advanced threat detection. However, one of the most critical vulnerabilities remains ridiculously simple. Weak or outdated passwords.

        Tech expert and founder/former CEO of LockerGnome, Chris Pirillo famously said, “Passwords are like underwear. Don’t let people see them. Change them very often, and you shouldn’t share them with strangers.”

        While humorous, the message underscores a serious reality. Password maintenance is foundational to your digital security.

        Passwords are the literal front door. Whether you’re protecting personal financial information or sensitive business data, compromised passwords have damaging consequences. Identity theft, financial loss, and reputational or operational disruption are just a few of the risks.

        Avoid These Habits

        One of the most common mistakes people make is using overly simple, easy-to-remember passwords.

        I’m always surprised that people believe names, birthdays, 123456, or password are reliable security. In reality, they’re the first combinations hackers attempt. I know some who think just changing the ‘a’ to ‘@’ covers them, such as p@ssword. Or that using p@$$word is any better.

        Security expert Bruce Schneier notes, “If you think technology can solve your security problems, then you don’t understand the problems and you don’t understand the technology.”

        In other words, even the most advanced systems can be compromised by poor password practices.

        We also unknowingly give hackers clues through social media. Platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram are proverbial hunting grounds for personal information. Birthdays, pet names, children’s names, favorite sports teams, anniversary dates, and even your high school can be shared or pieced together over time.

        These details are exactly what many people use when creating passwords and answering security questions.

        Equally problematic is password reuse. Many of us use the same password across multiple accounts. This creates a domino effect. If one account is compromised, others can quickly follow. A single data breach on a less secure website can give attackers access to email, banking, or corporate systems.

        Don’t Be Fooled

        One thing I implore you is to never put any financial information in an email—even to those you trust.

        That means no banking or credit card information. They may not put it to bad use, but hackers certainly will. Emailing routing and account numbers is an invitation for trouble. If you can’t enter that kind of information directly into a trusted, secure payment website, call the vendor rather than emailing it.

        Also, do not include your social security number in emails.

        Former hacker turned IT consultant Kevin Mitnick was once one of the FBI’s most wanted hackers.

        He warned, “Companies spend millions of dollars on firewalls, encryption and secure access devices. It’s money wasted because none of these measures address the weakest link in the security chain.”

        That weakest link is most often human behavior. It’s all about what we share, reuse, and overlook.

        Hackers don’t just check out online profiles—they study them. These insidious actors comb through your posts, photos, comments. Even old, outdated content can build a profile of who you are. Think about this. A simple birthday post can reveal a name and an age. That photo of your dog with its name in the caption becomes another common password clue.

        A post as innocuous as referencing your first car or as benign as your favorite vacation spot can provide answers to common security questions.

        So, never use anything you have posted on social media as even a portion of your passwords.

        All of this is why strong password practices are essential.

        Be Vigilant

        Strong passwords are typically 12 to 16 characters and include uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Most importantly, they should be unrelated to any personal information and unique for every account. Password managers can securely store and generate complex passwords. They also remove the burden of memorization.

        I also use a password app that stores my passwords. It is extremely secure with its own complex password. In addition, I use multi-factor authentication (MFA), which enhances password security by requiring at least two verification methods, That could be a password and a mobile code, making unauthorized access much harder. I also like using face or fingerprint verification.

        However, creating strong passwords is only part of the equation. Changing your passwords on a regular basis adds another layer of protection.

        Even the most secure password can become vulnerable over time, especially if it has been unknowingly exposed in a data breach. Try to keep track of all accounts for any app you have created over the years. I personally discovered several accounts I don’t even remember creating for apps that I haven’t used in years.

        You should delete those accounts before you delete the apps.

        Business Approach

        For businesses, the risk is even greater and the stakes are higher. A single employee login can provide access to entire networks, sensitive client data, and proprietary information. We’ve all seen what has happened to broadcast and related service companies. When their systems were compromised, it leads to costly downtime, legal liability, and a loss of customer trust that can take years—and significant expense—to rebuild.

        In the end, cybersecurity doesn’t always require complex solutions.

        As Kevin Mitnick also put it, “The human factor is truly security’s weakest link.” Strengthening that link through smarter password habits, increased awareness, and more cautious social media use are among the most effective ways to protect both you and your data.

        You may not think about it often, but hackers spend all day doing little else.

        Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

        Face the Nation Ends This Week With George Stephanopoulos’ 12-Week Run Atop Sunday Ratings

        BNM Staff
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        Face the Nation Ends This Week With George Stephanopoulos’ 12-Week Run Atop Sunday Ratings

        CBS News’ Face the Nation snapped a 12-week losing streak on April 26th, topping ABC News’ This Week with George Stephanopoulos in total viewers for the first time since January.

        Averaging the two Face the Nation airings (the half-hour and full-hour editions), CBS drew approximately 2.9 million total viewers on April 26th. That edged out This Week, which pulled 2.8 million viewers on the day. The gap was slim, but the result still marked a meaningful reversal after more than two months of This Week holding the top spot.

        NBC’s Meet the Press came in third in total viewers with 2.5 million, while Fox News Sunday trailed the field at 1.1 million.

        The turnaround is especially striking given where things stood just a week earlier. On April 19th, This Week averaged 2.7 million total viewers — its 12th consecutive week at the top of the Sunday show rankings. Face the Nation had drawn 2.5 million that day, with Meet the Press at 2.3 million and Fox News Sunday pulling in 944,000.

        In other words, all four programs saw week-over-week growth by April 26th. Face the Nation‘s combined average jumped roughly 376,000 viewers from the prior week. This Week added about 100,000. Meet the Press gained more than 200,000. Fox News Sunday saw a sizable bump, climbing from 944,000 to 1,126,000 — an increase of nearly 200,000 viewers.

        The Adults 25-54 demographic told a different story. Meet the Press, anchored by Kristen Welker, led that category on April 26th with 484,000 viewers — a strong result that reinforced NBC’s consistent strength with the younger news audience. This Week followed with 419,000 in the demo, edging out Face the Nation‘s combined average of approximately 364,000. Fox News Sunday drew 208,000 in the category.

        For context, Meet the Press had also topped the demo the week prior with 434,000 viewers. This Week drew 349,000 that day, while Face the Nation came in at 329,000 and Fox News Sunday at 152,000.

        Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

        The Hidden Cost of Poor User Access in Online Media

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        The Hidden Cost of Poor User Access in Online Media

        As online media continues to reshape how audiences consume information, the user experience has become a defining factor for success. In an era where digital channels are at the forefront of entertainment, news, and even gambling, the quality of user access often dictates a company’s outcomes. Poor user access not only frustrates audiences but can also lead to measurable economic and reputational losses.

        Understanding the Hurdles of Digital Access

        Modern consumers expect smooth navigation, intuitive design, and rapid load times across devices. However, many digital services struggle with outdated interfaces, nonresponsive designs, and hidden technical glitches that deter user engagement. Even small inefficiencies, such as misdirected links or unclear navigation, can compound over time, leading to lost revenue and diminished brand trust. As competition intensifies, these shortcomings emerge as critical vulnerabilities.

        For instance, one effective approach is exemplified by the integrated use of the spinbet sign-up feature, which simplifies login and account management processes. In markets where bettors expect smooth transitions between gaming and sports betting, any obstacle in access not only disrupts the user journey but can also amplify regulatory challenges.

        Implications for Revenue and Brand Trust

        Beyond the initial inconvenience, poor user access carries significant hidden costs that extend to the advertiser’s bottom line. Media companies and digital platforms may face reduced engagement metrics, lower conversion rates, and increased customer support costs. In sectors that require high-stakes interaction, such as online gambling, every delayed click or misdirected link may deter potential wagers.

        Research into consumer media habits reveals that inefficiencies translate directly into lost consumer confidence. A recent Deloitte study of digital media trends illustrates shifts in consumption patterns that highlight the importance of continuous investment in user experience.

        The Broader Economic Impact of Access Barriers

        For media conglomerates and digital startups alike, enhanced user access is not just a matter of technical maintenance; it is a competitive mandate. Inefficient systems can result in a cascade of financial setbacks, ranging from higher server and support costs to lost advertising revenue. Moreover, in regulated spaces such as online gambling, poor user interfaces may lead to compliance issues that further erode consumer trust.

        In addition to immediate revenue loss, degraded accessibility affects broader demographics. Vulnerable users, particularly those with disabilities, encounter extra hurdles that widen the inequality gap in the digital realm. Data from the American Foundation for the Blind indicates that many users face significant barriers when engaging with digital services. These statistics signal a pressing need for digital businesses to reassess their approach to usability.

        Providing an inclusive and streamlined user experience is now a strategic imperative. In competitive environments where immediate access translates to immediate revenue, every user interaction must be optimized to minimize frustration and maximize engagement.

        Case Studies: Learning from Industry Successes and Failures

        Several forward-thinking companies have reaped tangible benefits from prioritizing digital access. Consider the evolution witnessed in online gambling. Services with robust user account systems have noticeably reduced login friction, resulting in improved retention rates. In the Australian market, for example, efforts to streamline both gaming and sports betting interfaces have contributed to a more reliable overall customer experience.

        In contrast, businesses that have neglected this aspect of user experience now confront both short-term financial setbacks and long-term damage to their reputations. More information on this transformation is available in industry commentary examining how traditional media models have shifted.

        Strategies for Mitigating the Impact of Poor User Access

        Addressing the hidden cost of inadequate user access demands a multipronged approach. At its core, it requires a robust understanding of customer touchpoints and a continuous commitment to upgrading digital infrastructure and interface design. Regular audits, user testing, and adaptive technologies are essential strategies to ensure that technical shortcomings are swiftly identified and resolved.

        Additionally, businesses must maintain vigilance regarding compliance with accessibility standards and regulations that safeguard both consumers and companies. The application of advanced analytics also assists platforms in pinpointing specific friction points along the user journey. Monitoring key performance indicators, such as page load times, navigation errors, and drop-off rates, provides actionable insights that reinforce the notion that investing in user access improvements is a strategic imperative.

        Responsible Gambling Notice: Online gambling involves risk and should be approached with caution. Please play responsibly and within your means. Individuals experiencing issues related to gambling are advised to seek professional support from their national gambling helpline or a local responsible gaming organisation.

        Top Enterprise PPC Management Agencies Helping Media Companies Scale Digital Revenue

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        Top Enterprise PPC Management Agencies Helping Media Companies Scale Digital Revenue

        The media industry is undergoing a rapid transformation as audiences shift toward digital-first consumption. From streaming platforms to online publications and broadcast networks, monetization strategies are evolving just as quickly as user behavior. In this environment, paid acquisition has become a critical growth lever. Enterprise-level PPC campaigns are no longer optional for media companies aiming to scale digital revenue efficiently and sustainably.

        Unlike standard PPC efforts, enterprise PPC management focuses on high-budget campaigns, multi-channel coordination, advanced audience segmentation, and data-driven optimization. Media companies, in particular, benefit from this approach because of their need to drive consistent traffic, maximize ad revenue, and maintain strong audience engagement across platforms.

        Below is a curated look at some of the top enterprise PPC management agencies that are helping media companies scale effectively, along with the key services that make them stand out.

        Why Enterprise PPC Matters for Media Companies

        Media brands operate in a highly competitive digital landscape where visibility directly impacts revenue. Whether it is increasing subscriptions, boosting ad impressions, or promoting exclusive content, PPC campaigns play a crucial role.

        Key advantages include:

        • Immediate traffic acquisition for time-sensitive content
        • Advanced targeting based on audience interests and behavior
        • Scalable campaigns aligned with content releases and trends
        • Measurable ROI through detailed analytics and attribution models

        To fully leverage these benefits, media companies often rely on specialized agencies that understand both PPC mechanics and the nuances of content-driven businesses.

        Leading Enterprise PPC Management Agencies

        1. Helium SEO

        Helium SEO stands out as a strong partner for media companies looking to scale their paid acquisition efforts. Their approach blends technical expertise with strategic insight, making them particularly effective for enterprise-level campaigns.

        Their Enterprise PPC Management service is designed to handle large-scale advertising budgets while ensuring precise targeting and continuous optimization. What sets them apart is their focus on aligning paid campaigns with broader digital strategies, ensuring consistent growth across channels.

        Within their service framework, media companies benefit from:

        • Deep keyword and audience research tailored to content niches
        • Advanced campaign structuring for scalability
        • Continuous A/B testing for ad creatives and landing pages
        • Data-driven optimization using real-time analytics

        In addition to PPC, Helium SEO also offers complementary services that enhance campaign performance:

        • SEO strategy integration to align organic and paid efforts
        • Conversion rate optimization to improve user engagement
        • Content marketing support for better audience targeting

        This integrated approach ensures that media companies are not just driving traffic, but also maximizing the value of each visitor.

        2. Disruptive Advertising

        Disruptive Advertising has built a reputation for delivering measurable results through highly optimized PPC campaigns. Their team focuses heavily on conversion data, ensuring that every dollar spent contributes to tangible business outcomes.

        For media companies, their strengths lie in:

        • Conversion-focused campaign strategies
        • Landing page optimization for higher engagement
        • Cross-platform advertising including Google Ads and social channels

        Their ability to refine campaigns based on performance metrics makes them a reliable choice for scaling digital revenue.

        3. Ignite Visibility

        Ignite Visibility is another well-known agency offering enterprise PPC services tailored to large organizations, including media brands. Their approach emphasizes forecasting and long-term growth strategies.

        Key highlights include:

        • Predictive analytics for campaign planning
        • Multi-channel PPC management
        • Custom reporting dashboards for performance tracking

        They also provide services such as social media marketing and digital PR, which can further amplify campaign reach and brand visibility.

        4. Tinuiti

        Tinuiti specializes in performance marketing and has extensive experience working with large-scale clients. Their enterprise PPC solutions are particularly effective for media companies with diverse audience segments.

        Their offerings include:

        • Omnichannel campaign management
        • Advanced audience segmentation
        • AI-driven bid optimization

        Tinuiti also integrates services like Amazon advertising and influencer marketing, which can be valuable for media companies expanding into new revenue streams.

        Key Features to Look for in an Enterprise PPC Agency

        When selecting a PPC partner, media companies should prioritize agencies that offer:

        Strategic Expertise

        Understanding of media consumption patterns and audience behavior is critical.

        Advanced Technology

        Use of automation, AI, and analytics tools for campaign optimization.

        Custom Reporting

        Clear insights into performance metrics such as ROI, CTR, and conversion rates.

        Integrated Services

        Support for SEO, content marketing, and CRO to maximize overall digital performance.

        Supporting Services That Enhance PPC Performance

        While PPC is a powerful tool on its own, its effectiveness increases when combined with other digital services. Many top agencies offer:

        • Conversion Rate Optimization
          Improves the likelihood of users taking desired actions after clicking an ad
        • Content Strategy Development
          Ensures that campaigns are aligned with high-quality, engaging content
        • Analytics and Data Visualization
          Provides deeper insights into user behavior and campaign performance
        • Social Media Advertising
          Expands reach and engagement across multiple platforms

        These services create a more cohesive marketing ecosystem, allowing media companies to achieve better results from their PPC investments.

        The Future of PPC in Media

        As technology continues to evolve, enterprise PPC management is becoming more sophisticated. Automation, machine learning, and predictive analytics are reshaping how campaigns are managed and optimized.

        For media companies, this means:

        • More precise audience targeting
        • Better personalization of ad experiences
        • Increased efficiency in budget allocation
        • Enhanced ability to scale campaigns globally

        Agencies that stay ahead of these trends will play a crucial role in helping media brands maintain a competitive edge.

        Conclusion

        Enterprise PPC management has become a cornerstone of digital growth for media companies. With the right agency partner, businesses can not only increase traffic but also drive meaningful engagement and revenue.

        From Helium SEO’s integrated approach to the data-driven strategies of agencies like Disruptive Advertising, Ignite Visibility, and Tinuiti, there are multiple options available for companies looking to scale.

        The key lies in choosing a partner that understands both the technical and strategic aspects of PPC, while also offering complementary services that enhance overall performance. In a rapidly evolving media landscape, this combination is essential for sustained success.

        Larry O’Connor Named New Morning Drive Host for Salem Radio Network

        BNM Staff
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        Larry O’Connor Named New Morning Drive Host for Salem Radio Network

        Salem Radio Network has announced it has named Larry O’Connor as the new morning drive host for the nationally syndicated network.

        O’Connor & Company will continue to be heard on 105.9 WMAL in Washington, D.C. Larry O’Connor will simply host the show from the Cumulus Washington studios and take the program into national syndication with Salem Radio Network.

        Additionally, O’Connor’s Townhall.com show — LARRY — will continue to stream at Noon ET.

         “We’re excited to bring O’Connor & Company to a broader national audience while maintaining the strong foundation and audience connection the show has built in Washington,” said O’Connor. “At the same time, we’re building the future of media across radio, streaming, and digital platforms with Townhall and the Salem News Channel. Salem’s integrated vision aligns perfectly with my work across platforms, including my daily streaming show LARRY, and makes this an incredibly exciting next chapter. I’m also thrilled that my longtime collaborator and executive producer, Heather Hunter, will continue with the program as we expand nationwide.”

        Larry O’Connor steps into the role vacated by the departure of Chris Stigall. Last month, Stigall announced he was departing the Salem Radio Network morning show to run for a Congressional seat from the state of Missouri.

        “Larry is the go-to media voice for the people shaping policy in our nation’s capital,” said Phil Boyce, Senior Vice President of Content at Salem Media. “He’s built a show insiders rely on and an audience that cares deeply about the direction of the country. We’re proud to expand that success across our national lineup, leading the conversation every morning across America.”

        “The growth of O’Connor & Company reflects the strength of the show and its connection with listeners,” added Cumulus Media Vice President and Market Manager Jeff Boden. “We’re pleased to see the program reach new audiences while continuing to serve our listeners in Washington each morning.”

        O’Connor & Company will begin in morning drive on Salem Radio Network beginning on Monday, May 4th. The show airs live from 6-9 AM ET.

        Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

        DMR/Interactive Promotes Tony Bannon to EVP of Strategy and Growth

        BNM Staff
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        DMR/Interactive Promotes Tony Bannon to EVP of Strategy and Growth

        DMR/Interactive has announced that Tony Bannon has been promoted to the role of Executive Vice President of Strategy and Growth.

        Tony Bannon is no stranger to DMR/Interactive. He originally joined the company in December 2019. He served as the Vice President of Marketing Strategy before his elevation.

        Before joining DMR/Interactive, Tony Bannon worked at Cumulus Media, Midwest Communications, Mid-West Family Broadcasting, and Saga Communications.

        “Data tells you who’s listening. Audience intelligence tells you who matters and where to find more heavy users. DMR/Interactive has spent decades helping clients do exactly that. As our investments in AI-driven tools continue to expand, we’re able to deliver even greater impact,” said Bannon. “I’m honored to step into this role and looking forward to the road ahead.”

        “Tony has been instrumental in helping us stay ahead of where the industry is going, while never losing sight of what matters most: delivering meaningful results for our clients,” said Andrew Curran, President and CEO of DMR/Interactive. “We love to promote from within. Tony brings strategic vision, deep industry knowledge and a genuine passion for innovation that make him the right leader for this next stage of growth.”

        Bannon offically begins his dutes on Friday, May 1st.

        Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

        Chris Hayes Launching AI-Focused Podcast for MS NOW

        BNM Staff
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        Chris Hayes Launching AI-Focused Podcast for MS NOW

        MS NOW has announced that a new podcast focused on AI and hosted by Chris Hayes is set to release next week.

        The AI End Game: Power, Profit, and Progress is set to debut on Tuesday, May 5th.

        As part of the weekly show, Chris Hayes will sit down with AI experts. The show plans to ask a wide array of questions related to the technology. It also aims to define what is and isn’t AI.

        The list of those scheduled to appear on the program includes:

        • Derek Thompson (The Atlantic)
        • Ethan Mollick (University of Pennsylvania)
        • Alison Gopnik (Berkley AI Research Group)
        • Timnit Gebru (Black in AI)
        • David Chalmers (cognitive scientist)
        • Ed Zitron (Better Offline podcast)
        • Michael Pollan (The New York Times)

        New episodes of the Chris Hayes-led show will debut on Tuesdays. A YouTube video series will also accompany the program. Subscribers to MS NOW Premium will receive ad-free listening, plus bonus content. A subscriber-exclusive program will also debut on Thursday, June 18th.

        Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

        Prime Video Announces Multi-Year Agreement With Duke Men’s Basketball

        BSM Staff
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        Prime Video Announces Multi-Year Agreement With Duke Men’s Basketball

        Amazon Prime Video is entering college sports. Prime Video and Duke University announced a multiyear deal giving the streamer exclusive rights to three marquee Blue Devils men’s basketball games per season.

        This is Prime Video’s first college sports partnership. It’s a big swing.

        The showcase tips off November 25, 2026, in Las Vegas. Duke faces Connecticut in a rematch of their 2026 NCAA Tournament classic at T-Mobile Arena. Game two lands December 21 at Madison Square Garden, where Duke takes on NCAA champion Michigan.

        The series wraps February 20, 2027, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit against Gonzaga. Prime Video produces all three games. Times and additional details come later.

        Charlie Neiman, Head of Sports Partnerships at Prime Video, framed the deal plainly.

        “Duke basketball games transcend the schedule, and the creation of this all-new offering gives fans more of what we all want, marquee matchups featuring the most successful programs in the nation.”

        Duke AD Nina King sees it as a global play. “As Prime Video’s first college sports partner, this collaboration not only expands the global reach of Duke Men’s Basketball but also creates meaningful opportunities for our student-athletes in a way that reflects innovation and excellence.”

        Duke’s ESPN relationship remains in place. This deal adds a new streaming window on top of it.

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