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The Dan Bongino Show Rises Into Top 3 During First Month Since Return in Triton Digital Rankings

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The Dan Bongino Show Rises Into Top 3 During First Month Since Return in Triton Digital Rankings

The Dan Bongino Show returned on February 2nd. And it’s clear listeners and viewers were excited for its return.

In the Top Podcasts by Weekly Average Downloads category, The Dan Bongino Show earned third place in the February rankings from Triton Digital. That represented an eight-position increase for the show.

The return to near the top of the rankings comes after Dan Bongino returned to his podcast after previously serving as the Deputy Director of the FBI.

Elsewhere in the weekly average downloads rankings, Pod Save America moved to the top position, displacing Stuff You Should Know in the first overall position.

Joining those three programs in the top 10 were My Favorite Murder, On Purpose with Jay Shetty, The Charlie Kirk Show, Global News Podcast, The Bulwark Podcast, The Breakfast Club, and The Bobby Bones Show, in order. The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show fell just outside the top 10, dropping two positions to #12.

In the Top Sales Networks by Weekly Average Downloads sector, the top nine rankings remained the same. iHeart Audience Network was number one, followed by NPR and the Audacy Podcast Network. Audioboom and Cumulus Podcast Network rounded out the top five. Salem, the BBC, Soundrise, and American Public Media Group earned positions six through nine. Lemonada Media moved up two places to finish February in 10th in that category.

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NFL Ends ‘Monday Night Football’ Doubleheaders, FOX Sports Gains Christmas Day Primetime Game

BSM Staff
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NFL Ends ‘Monday Night Football’ Doubleheaders, FOX Sports Gains Christmas Day Primetime Game

The National Football League (NFL) is moving quickly to reshape specific parts of its 2026 media package. With the NFL schedule release coming in just six weeks, league executives are attempting to finalize the resale of five games recently reacquired from The Walt Disney Company.

Those games returned to the league as part of a broader equity-driven agreement involving Disney-owned ESPN. Now, the NFL is exploring new distribution opportunities as it continues to refine its evolving broadcast strategy ahead of the 2026 season.

One notable shift will impact Monday night programming. The league plans to eliminate the Monday Night Football doubleheader format that had aired across ESPN and ABC. NFL executive vice president of media distribution Hans Schroeder acknowledged that while the concept was aimed as a positive for fans, it often created confusion.

“We thought adding two games on Monday night would be a great thing for fans,” said Schroeder. “I think we collectively struggled and realized fans felt like they were conflicted to choose between those games.”

Instead, the NFL appears focused on more streamlined presentation windows. That strategy extends into holiday programming, where the league is planning another Christmas Day tripleheader. Streaming giant Netflix is expected to carry two of those games, while FOX Sports will air the third. The FOX game likely will air in a primetime slot according to Schroeder who spoke via a conference call.

Timing remains critical for the league’s next steps. The resale of the five games must be completed before the NFL’s schedule release, traditionally held in mid-May. That event unveils team matchups. It also assigns broadcast partners, making it a key deadline for finalizing media deals.

Beyond immediate scheduling changes, the NFL continues to position itself for long-term flexibility. Upcoming opt-out clauses in its core media rights agreements could unlock billions in additional revenue while allowing the league to adapt to a rapidly shifting media landscape.

Last month, CNBC reported that negotiations between the NFL and CBS are reportedly intensifying. Both the league and Paramount Global are exploring a revised agreement. A new deal would extend the network’s long-standing Sunday afternoon broadcast package while dramatically increasing its annual rights fee.

According to CNBC’s Alex Sherman last month, discussions between league officials and executives from CBS and its parent company are centering on a potential price increase that could raise the network’s yearly payment by roughly 50–60 percent.

The current agreement averages about $2.1 billion per year for the Sunday afternoon slate of games. That means a revised deal could push CBS’s annual commitment past $3 billion if negotiations reach the midpoint of those projections

As negotiations continue, the NFL’s latest moves underscore a balancing act between innovation and reach.

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Florida Panthers Game Blacked Out in First Period Due to Xfinity/Scripps Carriage Dispute

BSM Staff
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Florida Panthers Game Blacked Out in First Period Due to Xfinity/Scripps Carriage Dispute

A carriage dispute between Florida Panthers broadcast partner Scripps and Comcast Xfinity left viewers across South Florida in the dark Tuesday night — but not immediately. During the first period of the Panthers’ 6-3 win against the Ottawa Senators, the team alerted fans that Xfinity planned to remove Scripps-owned channels from its lineup.

At the time, many viewers reported no issues and continued watching the game as usual. That changed quickly.

Xfinity dropped the channels during game action, abruptly cutting off access for customers midgame. The move sparked frustration among fans who suddenly lost the broadcast without warning.

Scripps owns more than 60 television stations across 40 markets. Many of which were removed from Xfinity’s lineup as part of the disagreement. The affected stations include WSFL-TV (Channel 39) in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale market and Channel 9 in West Palm Beach. Both of which carry Panthers games locally.

Additionally, several network-affiliated stations owned by Scripps were impacted nationwide. Those include outlets tied to ABC, CBS and Fox, along with select NBC affiliates, broadening the disruption for viewers across multiple regions.

The organization emphasized that games remain available through over-the-air signals, other cable and satellite providers, and the team’s streaming platform, Panthers Plus. The team also encouraged affected viewers to contact Comcast directly and request the return of Panthers programming.

Carriage disputes between distributors and broadcasters are not uncommon and often resolve over time. However, the timing of this disruption could create additional challenges for fans in the short term.

The Panthers are scheduled to host the Boston Bruins on Thursday, raising questions about whether the issue will be settled before the next home game. For now, South Florida viewers relying on Xfinity face uncertainty as negotiations between the two sides continue.

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Don Lemon: I Think About Running for President

BNM Staff
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Don Lemon: I Think About Running for President

Don Lemon is in the midst of defending himself against felony charges from an anti-ICE protest last month. That doesn’t mean he doesn’t think about being president.

While appearing on Pod Save America with guest host Alex Wagner, Lemon said that he knows some might find the idea far-fetched. But he believes he could ascend to the highest office in the land.

“Do I ever think about it? Yes,” Lemon admitted. “Could it happen? Yeah, it could happen if the opportunity presented itself. (If) the right opportunity presented itself.

“Look, if I wanted to — I know people are going to think I’m crazy. This is going to be the headline, and people are going to laugh about it. I think I could be President of the United States,” he reiterated. “I could definitely run this country better than Donald Trump.”

Don Lemon added that, while he can envision himself running for and winning the office, he doesn’t believe its currently in the cards.

“Am I at that point now? No.”

He continued by stating that the political rise of Donald Trump makes him believe it’s possible for anyone to become President.

Last month, Don Lemon entered a not guilty plea after being charged with violating the FACE Act. He was arrested after being present at an anti-ICE protest inside a Minnesota church. Lemon has continually denied any wrongdoing, and has argued he was working as a journalist and not as a protester.

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Rich Eisen Shares Emotions on Final Day of NFL Network Under Oversight of the League

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Rich Eisen Shares Emotions on Final Day of NFL Network Under Oversight of the League

As the NFL Network prepares to enter a new chapter under ESPN and The Walt Disney Company, one of its most recognizable voices is reflecting on both uncertainty and pride. During Tuesday’s edition of The Rich Eisen Show, Rich Eisen opened up about the emotions tied to the transition.

The longtime host described the moment as both significant and deeply personal for those who helped build the network from the ground up.

“It’s an emotional day for a lot of us,” Eisen said. “There’s a lot of people at the NFL Network right now wondering what is going to happen next. But it’s also the end of an era. The end of 23 years of growing this network on behalf of the NFL. It kind of feels weird that I’m not going to be employed by the shield.”

Eisen has been a central figure since the network’s launch in 2003. Despite that uncertainty, Eisen struck a hopeful tone. He pointed to the network’s growth and the foundation built over more than two decades. Rather than viewing the move as an ending, he framed it as a transition into something larger.

“I feel like we’re being dropped off at college,” Eisen said. “We are grown, we are mature, and we’re still growing.”

That perspective reflects confidence in what NFL Network has become and how it will continue to grow. Eisen noted that the partnership with ESPN opens doors that did not previously exist.

“There’s still lots to do,” he said. “It’s an exciting new world, and there is a way for our body of work to be expanded. Our minds to be expanded. There’s ways to explore new worlds with obviously, the leader in sports.”

The deal places NFL Network under the oversight of a company with deep resources and an expansive platform. As of today, NFL Media employees will officially become ESPN employees. NFL Network will be included in the ESPN direct-to-consumer product, while NFL RedZone will be distributed by ESPN to cable and satellite companies.

Even with those opportunities ahead, Eisen made it clear that the mission remains unchanged. He emphasized continuity and responsibility for everyone involved with NFL Media.

“It’s my job, along with everybody else. Including all the hard working men and women up at the NFL Media Group, as it’s formally been known. To continue the NFL Network the way it has been intended,” Eisen said.

That commitment may prove critical during a period of transition. While questions remain about staffing and structure, the focus appears to stay on maintaining the identity that helped define the network. The past 23 years shaped a generational time in both his career and the network’s place in sports media. Now, a new era begins with different leadership but familiar expectations.

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Codie Allen Takes Mornings at Q104

BMM Staff
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Codie Allen Takes Mornings at Q104

Q104 in Kansas City has announced Codie Allen will serve as its new morning host.

Allen is no stranger to Kansas City country listeners. From 2012 until last August, she worked at 106.5 The Wolf. During her tenure, she worked as APD/MD as well as a morning show co-host.

“Codie Allen in Q104 mornings is a dream scenario for this station,” said Program Director Dale Carter. “She understands Country music, she understands Kansas City, and she knows how to make a real connection with listeners from the first song of the day to the last. We’ve built something special here with this lineup, and I can’t wait for Kansas City to wake up with Codie every morning.”

The move marks a return to the station for Allen. She began her career at Q104 before later working at 102.9 The Wolf in Minneapolis and 99.7 The Wolf in Memphis before moving back to Kansas City.

With the addition of Codie Allen in mornings, previous morning host, Mallory Kay, will move to middays. Marissa Leggio, who helmed middays before Kay, will move to nights on the station. She’ll also be heard in the same daypart on Mix 93.3.

“This is a big day for the entire cluster,” said Operations Manager Steve Serrano. “Codie brings an incredible combination of talent, experience, and genuine connection to this audience. The programming moves we’re making today reflect our commitment to putting the right people in the right places — and having Codie Allen wake up Kansas City on Q104 every morning is exactly the right move.”

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‘Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire’ Adds New Affiliates In Kansas

BMM Staff
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‘Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire’ Adds New Affiliates In Kansas

Benztown continues to expand the reach of one of its longest-running syndicated radio brands. The company announced that The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire has added four new affiliates through Murfin Media, extending the show’s presence across Kansas.

The program will now air on KSPN-FM in Burlington, KKOY-FM in Chanute, KSEK-AM/K300DE in Pittsburg, and KIND-FM in Elk City as part of the Rock of Kansas format.

Hosted by Todd Brandt and Mike Tyler, the show airs weekdays from 6-10 a.m. and blends humor, lifestyle content, and interviews aimed at rock audiences. The addition gives Murfin Media a personality-driven morning option to pair with its music-focused stations.

“We are excited to expand our footprint in the great state of Kansas,” noted Brandt about the new additions.

Murfin Media Brand Manager Jack Oliver said the program aligns well with the company’s audience strategy. He noted the show delivers a mix of commentary and real-life storytelling that fits the mindset of rock listeners while adding energy to the network’s presentation.

The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire has built a long-standing presence in syndication by leaning into conversational content and a comedic approach to current events. Signature features include recurring bits such as “The Dead Pool,” “Unspeakable Sex Acts,” and “Famous Chicks that Bug Todd.”

In addition to its standard weekday offering, Benztown also distributes TNT Stripped Bare, a customized version of the show designed for stations seeking a tighter music-and-talk blend. The format provides flexibility for programmers and supports both PPM and diary measurement markets.

With the Kansas expansion, the show continues to strengthen its multi-market footprint. It is already heard in several cities, including Omaha, Wichita, Lincoln, Mason City, Fayetteville, Fargo, Stillwater, and parts of the Spokane market.

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98.1 KVET Adds The JB and Sandy Morning Show

BMM Staff
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98.1 KVET Adds The JB and Sandy Morning Show

98.1 KVET in Austin has a new morning show. JB Hager and Sandy McIlree will host The JB and Sandy Morning Show on the iHeartMedia country station.

It marks a return for the duo, who went off the air in 2015. They previously worked together for 18 years at Mix 94.7 in the market before working at 105.3 The Fringe together.

“KVET is a legendary radio station that has produced Texas Radio Hall of Famers Bob Pickett, Bama Brown and Bob Cole,” said Sandy McIlree. “To say we are standing on the shoulders of giants is an understatement. We are excited to be part of the iHeart family and appreciate the effort from Christine Escobar, Marc Sherman and Jason McCollim to make this happen.”

“We’ve always said the JB and Sandy show was really about the relationship with Austin,” said JB Hager. “It feels like picking up the conversation right where we left off. Austin has changed a lot since we were last on the air—but one thing hasn’t: this city still loves a good morning show. We’re excited to be part of it again. We couldn’t ask for a better home than the legendary KVET.”

Joining the show is Tricia McIlree, the wife of Sandy McIlree. She has co-hosted the syndicated Sandy Show since 2018.

The JB and Sandy Morning Show replaces Wayne D & Tay Hamilton in the daypart. That show was a Nashville-based program.

“Austin thrives on the strength of its local, legacy brands. And The JB & Sandy Morning Show is a perfect reflection of that spirit,” said iHeartMedia Austin President Christine Escobar. “Their deep connection with listeners and their family-friendly approach to the morning commute have made them a beloved part of this community for decades. We’re proud to welcome them back and excited for what their return means for our listeners, our partners, and for Austin.”

The JB and Sandy Morning Show will air from 6-10 AM. The show launched on Wednesday morning.

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Candace Dold Named New Morning Show Co-Host On 93.1 WPOC

BMM Staff
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Candace Dold Named New Morning Show Co-Host On 93.1 WPOC

iHeartMedia has found its new morning voice in Baltimore, and it’s a familiar one for local audiences. The company announced that Candace Dold has been named co-host of Michael J & Candace In The Morning on iHeartMedia Baltimore’s 93.1 WPOC.

Dold joins Michael J on weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., forming a new pairing designed to energize the station’s morning drive. Michael J, a longtime fixture in the format, is also set to be inducted into the Country Radio Hall of Fame in 2026.

“Candace came in as a guest fill-in while we conducted our search. It quickly became clear she was the perfect match,” said Jeff Kapugi, Region Senior Vice President of Programming. “There was instant chemistry. We’re excited for what this team will bring to Baltimore mornings.”

Dold brings a deep connection to the market. She previously spent more than a decade at FOX45, where she worked as a reporter and anchor from 2005 to 2019. In addition, she hosted the lifestyle program B’More Lifestyle, building strong recognition among local viewers.

That familiarity could prove valuable as WPOC looks to strengthen its bond with listeners. For Dold, the move also marks a return to her roots in a different medium.

“I’ve always had a love for this station,” she said. “Growing up in Maryland, WPOC was part of my daily life. Joining Michael J in the mornings is an incredible opportunity, and I’m excited to connect with listeners in a new way.”

The new era of mornings at 93.1 WPOC begins now, with a duo the company believes is already in sync.

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Woody Named 2026 Recipient Of Kidd Kraddick Award at 38th Annual MSBC

BMM Staff
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Woody Named 2026 Recipient Of Kidd Kraddick Award at 38th Annual MSBC

Woody, host of The Woody Show, has been named the 2026 recipient of the Kidd Kraddick Award, Talentmasters announced this week. The honor will be presented during the 38th Annual Morning Show Boot Camp, set for August 5-7 in Cleveland.

The award, named after the late Kidd Kraddick, recognizes radio talent who demonstrate sustained success, originality, community impact and the ability to influence others in the industry.

Woody’s program is one of the country’s top syndicated alternative morning shows. It is distributed by Premiere Networks and originates from iHeartMedia’s ALT 98.7 in Los Angeles.

Each year’s recipient selects the next honoree. That responsibility fell to Johnjay Van Es and Rich Berra, hosts of The Johnjay & Rich Show, who received the award in 2025.

Van Es praised Woody’s connection with listeners and his ability to entertain while remaining relatable.

“Woody has a rare ability to connect, uplift, and make people feel seen — all while making us laugh,” Van Es said. “He represents everything the Kidd Kraddick Award stands for, and no one is more deserving.”

Berra pointed to the show’s steady growth and loyal following as key factors in the selection.

“We’ve watched Woody and his crew quietly build a rock empire over the last few years,” Berra said. “They’ve developed a strong bond with their audience while delivering a consistently entertaining product. That’s something Kidd always valued.”

Woody said the recognition carries special meaning given the legacy attached to the award.

“This industry has given me so much over the years, and radio will always be my first love,” he said. “While I never had the chance to meet Kidd Kraddick, I understand the impact he had. Being honored with an award that carries his name is incredibly meaningful.”

The Kidd Kraddick Award has a long history of recognizing influential morning talent across the country. Previous winners include Bert Weiss of The Bert Show, The Kidd Kraddick Show, The Roula & Ryan Show with Eric in Houston, and Dave Ryan of KDWB in Minneapolis.

Additional past honorees include Paul Castronovo in Miami, BJ Shea in Seattle, and Mojo in Detroit.

Talentmasters will present the award during its annual Morning Show Boot Camp at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown. The event brings together radio professionals from across the country for networking, training and industry discussions.

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