iHeartMedia is expanding its video podcast strategy through a new deal with Disney+ and Hulu. The partnership will bring six iHeartPodcasts titles to the streaming platforms.
What We Know: The deal expands the presence of iHeartPodcasts beyond traditional audio platforms and into major streaming destinations. Six shows will receive video distribution across Disney+ and Hulu, with new episodes streaming weekly. The arrangement begins August 14 with Hey Jonas!, which will appear on both Disney+ and Hulu. Pod Meets World will also stream on Disney+, while four additional titles will join Hulu and Hulu on Disney+ for bundle subscribers in the U.S. The agreement builds on Disney’s growing podcast strategy, which already includes licensed, rewatch, and companion programming tied to popular entertainment franchises.
What They Said: “Fans can’t get enough of the stories and talent they love, and podcasts have become one of the fastest-growing ways for audiences to connect with them. These new video podcasts from iHeartMedia bring fans closer to their favorite worlds and the creators behind them, and we’re thrilled to make them available on Disney+ and Hulu as part of an even richer streaming experience.” -The Walt Disney Company Head of Content Planning & Partnerships for Direct-to-Consumer Lauren Tempest
“Podcasting continues to evolve as audiences increasingly want to engage with the shows and personalities they love in more ways and across more platforms. Disney+ and Hulu have built powerful streaming destinations with incredibly passionate fan communities, making them ideal partners to expand the reach of these beloved iHeartPodcasts. From iconic rewatch series and fan-favorite conversations to original storytelling, this deal gives both existing listeners and new viewers an easy way to discover and connect with some of podcasting’s most engaging voices through video.” -iHeartMedia Chairman/CEO Bob Pittman
What Remains Unclear: Neither company disclosed financial terms or the length of the agreement. It also remains unclear whether the partnership will expand beyond the initial six titles.
What It Means: The deal underscores how video has become increasingly important to podcast distribution. For iHeartMedia, Disney+ and Hulu provide access to massive streaming audiences while extending the value of its podcast catalog. Meanwhile, Disney gains additional programming that can deepen engagement around established entertainment brands. The partnership also reflects a broader shift as podcast companies seek distribution across audio, video, and streaming platforms.
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Danny Parkins is interested in watching Luke Kuechly’s Netflix move closely. The FS1 host called the hire “really interesting” on Colin Cowherd’s podcast.
What We Know: Netflix named Kuechly its lead NFL analyst for 2026, according to The Athletic. He’ll debut September 10 alongside play-by-play voice Noah Eagle, calling Rams-49ers in Melbourne, Australia. Meanwhile, Kuechly entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s 2026 class this past weekend. Netflix airs five games this season, including a Christmas doubleheader, following past analysts like J.J. Watt and Drew Brees.
Danny Parkins is excited to hear Luke Kuechly on Netflix: “I thought the Luke Kuechly hire was really interesting. Like everyone says, he’s one of the smartest players ever. People said he aced the audition. I can’t wait to watch him. A linebacker, that’s a unique person to have as a solo analyst in a football broadcast.”
Danny Parkins on how likability matters in broadcasting: “Likability is the is the secret sauce to this thing that we do. I’m not saying that I have it in spades. I have to make up for it with great takes. If you are just charming, likable and easy to listen to and watch, it’s a it’s a superpower… If Luke Kuechly has that thing, that charisma, it’ll come through. It’s so valuable.”
What Remains Unclear: Whether Kuechly’s Netflix debut will be a one-and-done or something he hopes to build upon is unknown.
What It Means: Netflix, in short, is betting on substance over star power. Instead of another ex-quarterback, the streamer picked a linebacker known for football IQ. Parkins’ comments reflect growing buzz ahead of Kuechly’s September 10 debut. Ultimately, if likability truly is the “secret sauce,” Kuechly’s charisma may decide his broadcast future. With some networks likely looking for a change of pace in the broadcast booth over the next couple of years, we could be seeing the start of something truly special.
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The remaining half of the legendary radio duo Lamont and Tonelli depart 107.7 The Bone in San Francisco. Corporate restructuring and debt-driven cutbacks at Cumulus Media forced the split.
What We Know The partnership spent 37 years building authentic connection at 107.7 The Bone. Cumulus prioritizes syndication over live talent to service corporate debt loads. This trend reflects broader industry consolidation. The departure removes genuine personality from the station’s identity.
What They Said “The audience follows the talent, not the signal frequency,” Lamont declared on social media. Therefore, both personalities plan launching independently with total creative control. Consequently, they promise reconnecting with listeners soon. They’re already developing their next platform.
What Remains Unclear The exact launch date hasn’t been announced yet. Their new distribution channel remains undisclosed. Timing for audience reconnection is still uncertain. However, both broadcasters expressed strong commitment to their fans.
What It Means Major talent didn’t escape Cumulus Media’s latest layoff round. Only Lamont remained after the split with his 35-year partner Tonelli. This signals how corporate restructuring doesn’t spare even legendary broadcasters. When A-list personalities get cut, the industry loses irreplaceable authenticity and connection.
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Deirdre Bosa is leaving CNBC to launch an independent show focused on artificial intelligence. The longtime business news anchor says AI’s impact now extends far beyond technology and markets.
What We Know: Bosa has been with CNBC since 2012, most recently working as an anchor based out of the network’s San Francisco bureau. She anchored TechCheck from 2021 through 2023, focusing on technology, business, and the companies shaping Silicon Valley. Before joining CNBC, Bosa contributed to Fox Business Network. Her new venture will center on artificial intelligence and the rapidly changing industries, institutions, and geopolitical forces surrounding the technology. Bosa’s decision comes as AI has become a central story across business and financial media.
What They Said: “This moment of AI has outgrown the ticker. And that’s why I’m leaving CNBC. It’s no longer just a Silicon Valley story or a Wall Street trade. It’s work, energy, national security, control, and the companies at the center are among the most valuable, powerful, and least understood in the world. The story moves faster than the news cycle. So I’m building something that moves with it.” -Deirdre Bosa
What Remains Unclear: Bosa hasn’t revealed the name of her new show, its launch date, or the platform that will distribute it. She also hasn’t detailed whether she’ll build the venture independently or partner with an existing media company.
What It Means: Bosa’s exit marks another notable departure from CNBC as established media personalities pursue independent opportunities. More importantly, her focus reflects how quickly AI has expanded beyond a technology beat. As AI reshapes workplaces, energy demand, national security, and financial markets, Bosa will position her new show around a story that increasingly touches nearly every part of the economy.
AI is no longer a segment. It’s a whole show. So I’m leaving CNBC at the end of the month to build it with @jaswu_
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Tom “Goz” Goslowski is heading back to Syracuse radio. Cumulus Media announced Monday that he’ll host a new Buffalo Bills program this fall.
What We Know: Bills Gameday With Goz debuts August 15 at 9 a.m. on The Score 1260/WSKO-AM. Goslowski previously hosted The First Quarter morning show at the same station before moving to Albany. There, he became a fixture in Capital Region sports media, working with UAlbany, Siena College, and the Albany Empire. He’s a two-time New York State Broadcasting Award winner and a longtime Heisman Trophy voter. Goslowski was part of iHeartMedia’s round of layoffs earlier this year along with his Fox Sports 980/95.9 co-host Jeff Levack. Goslowski previous served as Program Director of WOFX and WGY/WGY-FM.
What They Said: Rick Roberts, Program Director at The Score 1260: “We’re excited to welcome Goz back to The Score 1260. His football expertise, broadcasting experience, and Central New York roots make him a perfect fit for our lineup and for Bills fans throughout the region.”
Tom Goslowski: “I am thrilled to be back at The Score 1260 and I’m looking forward to talking to Central New York sports fans before and after Bills games this season.”
What Remains Unclear: Cumulus Media didnt’ detail any terms of the show in format, or if it will extend past football season.
What It Means: Cumulus is betting on a hint of nostalgia and regional credibility to drive Bills coverage. Goslowski’s Syracuse roots and Capital Region resume give the station a built-in audience. Meanwhile, the timing positions The Score 1260 ahead of the NFL season kickoff. For Central New York sports radio, familiar voices still carry weight.
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WBBM Newsradio reporter Bernie Tafoya will retire later this year after five decades in Chicago radio newsrooms. Tafoya will conclude a 40-year run at the Audacy all-news station in November.
What We Know: Tafoya announced his retirement plans ahead of his 40th anniversary at WBBM Newsradio on September 16. He’ll also mark 50 years working in major Chicago radio newsrooms in October. Tafoya originally joined WBBM as an editor and writer before moving into a reporting role. In the late 1990s, the station elevated him to morning drive reporter, a position he held for more than 25 years. However, Tafoya moved to a part-time role in 2023. He also anchored weekend coverage for the Audacy Chicago all-news brand for more than a decade. His final day at WBBM Newsradio will be Friday, November 6, 2026.
What They Said: “On September 16th, I’ll be celebrating my 40th anniversary at WBBM Newsradio, one of the premier all-news radio stations in the country. In October, I will celebrate my 50th anniversary working in major radio station newsrooms in Chicago. Not many people are as privileged and blessed as I have been to reach those milestones. I know how lucky I’ve been. That said, on Friday, November 6, 2026, I plan to fully retire.” -Bernie Tafoya
What Remains Unclear: Tafoya hasn’t indicated what, if anything, he plans to pursue after leaving WBBM Newsradio. His announcement also doesn’t address whether the station will immediately name a permanent replacement.
What It Means: Tafoya’s retirement closes a remarkable chapter in Chicago radio news. His career has spanned major changes in local radio, while his long tenure at WBBM Newsradio made him a familiar voice for generations of listeners. Additionally, his departure will leave the station without one of its most experienced newsroom veterans. After 40 years at WBBM, Tafoya will leave behind a significant legacy at one of the country’s best-known all-news radio stations.
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Dave O’Brien is sticking around Fenway a while longer. The longtime Red Sox voice has reportedly signed a two-year extension through at least 2028.
What We Know: This marks O’Brien’s 10th season with NESN, following nine years in the Red Sox radio booth. His current deal was due to expire at the end of this season. According to MassLive, negotiations went smoothly, with only a minor snag over lockout-related contract language. The new agreement also includes a slight reduction in his workload next year.
What’s At Stake: With a potential work stoppage looming this winter, it was imperative that the Red Sox lock in their ancillary voices ahead of what could be a very rocky off season.
What Remains Unclear: It’s unclear exactly how much smaller O’Brien’s schedule will be next season. It’s also unclear who might absorb the games he no longer calls.
What It Means: The extension keeps a familiar voice in the booth through at least 2028. With so much uncertainty coming this winter, the Red Sox wanted to ensure a deal got done ahead of a potential lockout. O’Brien is a staple for one of the country’s most recognizable teams. It makes complete sense to keep the consistency with the broadcast booth moving for years to come.
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William Orbit died July 23 at age 69. The legendary British producer fundamentally reshaped modern pop music.
What We KnowWilliam Orbit, born William Wainwright, passed away at his home. His family confirmed the death through an official statement. The producer’s career spanned four decades of innovation. He worked extensively with Madonna, Blur, Pink, All Saints, and many others across genres.
What’s at Stake Orbit reinvigorated Madonna’s career in 1998 with the album Ray of Light. That album won three Grammy Awards and remains iconic. Subsequently, he produced her hit “Beautiful Stranger” and six tracks on MDNA. His electronic production influenced pop music globally.
What Remains Unclear Details about the exact cause of his death remain undisclosed. His family instead chose to celebrate his remarkable legacy. Tributes flooded social media from fellow artists worldwide. Notably, Mel C, Skin, Sister Bliss, and Georgia honored his contributions.
What It Means Electronic music lost a pioneering architect. Orbit’s dreamy, ethereal style influenced generations of producers. His solo work, Pieces in a Modern Style, hit UK number four. Ultimately, his collaborations proved dance music could win Grammys.
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Ed Levine is stepping down as Galaxy Media Partners founder and CEO. After 36 years, he’s ready for a new chapter.
What We Know Levine launched Galaxy in 1990 with WKLL Frankfort/Utica. Today, the company operates 15 stations across Central and Upstate New York, including clusters in Syracuse and Utica/Rome. Beyond radio, Galaxy runs regional events like Taste of Syracuse and Syracuse Nationals. Levine’s career started at WAER (Syracuse University) and included co-founding WAQX in 1978 before launching Galaxy.
What They Said Levine called his 36-year tenure “a wonderful ride.” He explained: “It’s hard to believe I was 33 starting out, now I’m 70. A year ago I was blessed with a grandson. My family in Charlotte, North Carolina, has become my priority. I know this is the right time for a new chapter.” Still, Levine isn’t done building. “I have no intention of retiring from businesses. Experiential media and live events have an incredibly bright future, and I’m launching a new events company in the Carolinas.”
What Remains Unclear Galaxy Media has yet to announce formal succession plans. Additionally, the company hasn’t confirmed Levine’s official final date. These details will emerge in coming weeks. Questions linger about how the transition impacts current stations and event operations.
What It Means Levine’s departure marks the end of a significant era for Galaxy. His decision to pivot toward events rather than fully retire signals confidence in that sector’s growth. The Carolinas-based venture could reshape how Levine influences the broader experiential media landscape.
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Cumulus Media layoffs began while I was in Cleveland last week for MSBC 38. The timing wasn’t great given that MSBC unites and energizes radio professionals across the industry, but I do understand business. When profits shrink, companies reduce expenses, and lowering head count usually provides the largest savings.
According to Cumulus Media’s financial statements, the company generated 741.7 million in net revenue in 2025, down from 827.1 million in 2024, and 844.5 million in 2023. Q1 2026 results put the company on pace for another annual decline. When revenues shrink, head count gets lowered.
But if this were only about business, this piece would be easy to write. It’s not. There are people working for Cumulus Media and Westwood One who I like. Human decency, leadership, and competent management are vital to running a strong business, and Cumulus San Francisco continues to have big problems. I know Mary Berner prefers to keep a low profile, but sometimes more is expected. This is one of those times.
The Greg Papa Situation
I paired John Lund and Greg Papa in 2011. They were a fantastic team that produced ratings wins and revenue in San Francisco. KNBR ended their partnership in 2024, cutting Lund. Papa stayed on with Greg Silver, and in August 2025 revealed he was stricken with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. That battle forced him to step away from his radio show and 49ers play-by-play gig. While Papa’s focus shifted to his health, KNBR relied on Silver to carry the show. Questions grew about what happens to middays if Papa couldn’t return.
The station decided recently that it had to make a change ahead of football season. Lund was rehired to host middays. His local familiarity and experience hosting solo was stronger than Silver’s. That move made sense. Given Papa and Lund’s history, a future reunion would likely be viewed favorably by listeners and advertisers if Papa could recover.
But that’s not the whole story.
Photo Courtesy of Greg Papa
Cumulus hadn’t paid Papa since late February according to local sources. He made use of the Family and Medical Leave Act, which allows unpaid, job-protected leave, but FMLA only lasts a maximum of 12 weeks. It’s hard enough fighting for your life without also worrying about income — a terrible look for an employer.
Doctors cleared Papa to resume working from his home studio in late-July. Eric Branch captured what Papa has gone through in an excellent piece in the San Francisco Chronicle. He still has health challenges but has made improvements; whether he’d have energy for a 5-day, 4-hour daily show is unclear. Regardless, he is a free agent for the first time in his career.
Equally perplexing was Cumulus Media’s lackluster response. Barrett Media broke the news at 2pm last Wednesday. It wasn’t until Friday night, after countless outlets picked up the story and thousands expressed disgust, that the company finally issued a statement. What they shared was hollow corporate jargon. It also came after the company rushed out a statement on Thursday reinforcing its commitment to podcasting.
How does corporate leadership not have a statement ready that displays compassion when handling a high-profile employee who has battled leukemia for a year? Why is a response about the podcasting department deemed more important?
Pattern of Problems
Cumulus San Francisco has a history of managing situations like this poorly. The same cluster pushed out longtime afternoon host Ralph Barbieri in 2012, resulting in a wrongful termination suit. That settled for a few million dollars in 2014, before Mary Berner led the company.
Since naming Larry Blumhagen its Market Manager in 2021, KNBR has endured a mass exodus of key personalities, including Tom Tolbert, Paul McCaffrey, Larry Krueger, John Lund, Rod Brooks and F.P. Santangelo. Now Papa and Silver have joined the list. Companies can’t expect listeners and advertisers to remain loyal when they remove people who earn their trust and business. The Bone, another popular local station inside the cluster, also cut ties with its morning man Lamont last week. Both KNBR and The Bone‘s websites on Monday morning still showed Lamont, Papa and Silver with their respective stations. Those kind of details shouldn’t fall through the cracks.
KNBR also lost PD Kevin Graham in 2023 when he exited to focus on his battle with cancer, leading to programming mistakes before elevating Mike Hohler. The station has a rocky relationship with the San Francisco Giants as well, one of its key partners; former Giants catcher turned President of Baseball Operations Buster Posey made that clear recently, taking a jab at the station during an on-air interview.
Hard Times
Just 10-15 years ago, KNBR billed over 30 million dollars annually and was one of Cumulus Media’s top 5 brands. An aging roster, health challenges, local teams not winning, losing the Warriors, 95.7 The Game, and a weaker advertising climate all factor into declining revenue. But poor personnel decisions, and a lack of urgency also can’t be ignored.
Why would any advertiser or agency invest dollars with KNBR moving forward? The handling of Papa’s situation has done little to inspire business confidence. Listeners and advertisers have less reason to trust KNBR today than they did last Monday. You don’t treat a Bay Area icon fighting for his life the way KNBR treated one of their franchise faces. People and partners are going to think this is how the company values them until they hear otherwise.
Furthermore, after eliminating the majority of trusted voices, KNBR can’t afford to lose the Giants partnership. The team isn’t winning titles like it once did, but they’re still valuable. If Larry Baer moved the rights after the 2028 season to iHeartMedia, Audacy or Connoisseur Media, KNBR would be in bad shape. Management has to do everything possible to repair that relationship.
John Lund is stepping in to help a brand that once tossed him aside. He’s not the bad guy in this story. Greg Silver tried helping when the station needed him most and earned a pink slip for it. He’s not either. Greg Papa fought for his life, hoping to get back to his radio show. KNBR let him go anyway and treated him like a number on a spread sheet.
This is one of Cumulus Media’s largest and most important markets. The company is not going to thrive if San Francisco keeps shooting itself in the foot. Changes have taken place in the company in other big markets such as Dallas over the years, and rarely does a Dan Bennett led operation make these kind of mistakes.
Executives have to look closer and set things right when markets endure damage like this repeatedly. That job belongs now to Mary Berner. She may prefer staying under the radar, but Cumulus Media’s CEO can’t stay silent this time.
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