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NASCAR CEO: Amazon Prime Video Wants More Races in TV Package

Garrett Searight
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NASCAR CEO: Amazon Prime Video Wants More Races in TV Package

NASCAR is in the second year of a TV rights deal with FOX Sports, Amazon Prime Video, TNT Sports, and NBC Sports. One partner is having buyers remorse, but not for the reasons you might think.

What We Know: Amazon Prime Video owns the rights to five midseason races. TNT Sports also features five races. The remainder are split between FOX Sports having the first half, and NBC Sports having the second half. While Amazon Prime Video and TNT Sports have 10 races between the two, NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell said in an interview with Sports Business Journal that the broadcasters wished they had bought more.

What They Said: “We’ve got contractual obligations obviously, but what I can say — I don’t think I’m giving away any trade secrets — is if you talk to Prime, they wish they would have bought more. If you talk to Turner, they wish they would have bought more. That’s a good thing — that’s great for us. I’ve talked to Eric Shanks at Fox, I’ve talked with folks at Amazon, I’ve talked with Turner, and all of them are really happy with what’s going on right now and feel the momentum in the sport. Our job now is to really show that growth.” -NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell

What Remains Unclear: If NASCAR or any of its media partners would be willing to renegotiate the current rights deal. The deal encompasses the 2025 through 2031 seasons.

What It Means: The Amazon Prime Video coverage has been popular with NASCAR fans. Earlier this year, The Athletic’s Jeff Gluck took an informal poll on X, with 96% of respondents saying they either loved or liked Amazon’s coverage of the sport. NASCAR has also touted the younger audiences that Amazon Prime Video brings as a feature of the partnership.

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The Daily Wire Selling Consumer Brands to Jeremy Boreing

Garrett Searight
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The Daily Wire Selling Consumer Brands to Jeremy Boreing

Jeremy Boreing departed The Daily Wire last year. But now the two sides have agreed to a new business deal.

What We Know: The Daily Wire is set to sell its consumer brands — like Jeremy’s Razors and Jeremy’s Chocolates — to Boreing Media. The brands were originally created to spite advertisers who had pulled their sponsorships of The Daily Wire after backlash. Jeremy’s Razors once accounted for 10% of The Daily Wire’s annual revenue. It has generated $55 million in sales.

What They Said: “Jeremy’s Razors exists because of our fundamental belief that conservatives have to stop complaining about the left dominating all of our institutions and start building our own instead. I’m pleased to get to lead the Jeremy’s Razors brand again and to continue the creative work we started.” -Jeremy Boreing

What Remains Unclear: Financial details of the deal were not disclosed. It is also unclear whether The Daily Wire will re-enter the consumer products business after selling the brands to Boreing or if it will focus on its core content offerings going forward.

What It Means: A few weeks ago, Jeremy Boreing noted that he had not relationship with Ben Shapiro or The Daily Wire, outside of some select employees. So it is interesting to see that Boreing was able to strike a deal with the company to take a portion of its business that has been lucrative in the past.

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Veritone Executive Paul Cramer Departs After Eight Years

Garrett Searight
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Veritone Executive Paul Cramer Departs After Eight Years

Paul Cramer has exited Veritone after nearly eight years with the company. His departure follows Veritone’s recently announced cost-cutting initiative, in which it revealed plans to reduce its workforce by 25%.

What We Know: Cramer joined Veritone in 2017 as Managing Director of Media and Broadcasting. He earned a promotion to Vice President of Sales for Media, Entertainment, and Sports in July 2023 after helping expand the company’s relationships across multiple industries. Before joining Veritone, Cramer spent a decade at Triton Digital in several leadership roles. His background made him a familiar figure throughout the audio and digital media business. Last month, Veritone announced plans to eliminate roughly one-quarter of its workforce. According to a filing from last year, the company employed 446 people and aims to reduce annual expenses by approximately 30%.

What’s At Stake: Cramer’s departure removes an experienced executive who helped oversee media, entertainment, and sports sales during a period of significant growth in AI products. Meanwhile, Veritone continues reshaping its business as it works to improve its financial position and streamline operations.

What Remains Unclear: The company hasn’t announced whether it will replace Cramer or redistribute his responsibilities. It also hasn’t detailed which departments will absorb the largest impact from the planned workforce reductions.

What It Means: Executive departures often accompany broad restructuring efforts. As a result, Cramer’s exit signals that Veritone’s cost-cutting strategy extends beyond staffing levels and could reshape how the company serves media and broadcasting clients going forward.

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.

SEC Network Adds Chase Daniel as SEC Nation Analyst

Garrett Searight
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SEC Network Adds Chase Daniel as SEC Nation Analyst

Chase Daniel is expanding his ESPN responsibilities this fall. He’ll join SEC Nation as an analyst for the weekly college football show.

What We Know: Chase Daniel will debut on SEC Nation this season as part of the SEC Network‘s traveling pregame show. He’ll join new host Matt Barrie alongside returning analysts Paul Finebaum, Roman Harper and Tim Tebow. Additionally, the revamped panel will make its first appearance from SEC Kickoff Fan Fest in Tampa on July 19. Daniel joined ESPN in 2025 and will continue calling Thursday night college football games with Barrie while also contributing NFL coverage through the combine and draft season. Before broadcasting, Daniel spent 14 seasons in the NFL after a standout career at Missouri that included a Heisman Trophy finalist finish and multiple All-America honors.

What They Said: “I am thrilled to join The Nation team this fall and to have the opportunity to experience the unmatched energy of SEC crowds on campuses each week. Having played for an SEC school and always admiring the fans of the conference, I am so grateful to be a part of this premier college football show and cannot wait to get to work!” -Chase Daniel

“Chase brings extensive football knowledge and an authentic perspective that will resonate with SEC fans. He will be a terrific addition to the Nation team. We are excited to welcome him to the desk and know he will make an immediate impact this fall.” -ESPN SVP of Production Meg Aronowitz

What Remains Unclear: ESPN hasn’t detailed how Daniel’s expanded workload will affect his other on-air appearances throughout the football season. Likewise, the network hasn’t announced whether any additional talent changes are planned for SEC Nation beyond this revamped lineup.

What It Means: Daniel has quickly become a larger part of ESPN’s football coverage since arriving last year. Now, the former NFL quarterback adds one of college football’s highest-profile studio assignments, giving SEC Nation another analyst with recent playing experience as the network prepares for another SEC season.

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.

Yahoo Sports Adds Josh Norris, Hayden Winks After Underdog Shutters Content Network

Garrett Searight
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Yahoo Sports Adds Josh Norris, Hayden Winks After Underdog Shutters Content Network

Josh Norris and Hayden Winks have found a new home at Yahoo Sports. Yahoo Sports quickly added Josh Norris and Hayden Winks after Underdog ended its sports content network.

What We Know: Yahoo Sports announced that Norris and Winks are joining its fantasy football coverage after Underdog shuttered its sports content division earlier this month. The duo built one of fantasy football’s fastest-growing YouTube brands during their time at Underdog, attracting more than 170,000 subscribers. Now, they’ll become part of Yahoo‘s established fantasy content lineup as the company continues investing in original programming around its fantasy products. The move also gives Norris and Winks immediate stability after Underdog exited the sports media business despite maintaining its core fantasy gaming operations.

What They Said: “When we heard Underdog was ending its content network, we immediately wanted Josh and Hayden, and Underdog worked closely with us to ensure their show had a new home.” -Yahoo Studios Head Sam Farber

“Yahoo Fantasy is a legacy platform. We’ve all played on it for decades, and the current team—led by Matt Harmon, Justin Boone, Nate Tice, and others—is as good as it gets. We are honored to join them, and look forward to making even better content for our dedicated fans for years to come.” -Hayden Winks

“It has been an incredible journey building a YouTube channel from zero to over 170,000 subscribers — our community is so loyal and passionate — but I know the best is still ahead. I can’t wait to see what we build together.” -Josh Norris

What Remains Unclear: Yahoo Sports hasn’t detailed the full scope of Norris’ and Winks’ programming schedule or whether their existing show format will remain unchanged. Likewise, financial terms of the agreement weren’t disclosed.

What It Means: The addition strengthens Yahoo Sports’ fantasy football lineup at a time when recognizable personalities continue driving audience growth across digital platforms. Meanwhile, Norris and Winks retain the audience they built at Underdog while gaining the reach of one of fantasy sports’ most recognizable brands. The hiring also signals that established media companies remain eager to acquire proven digital talent when opportunities emerge.

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.

MLB Network Adds Cole Hamels to MLB Draft Studio Team

Garrett Searight
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MLB Network Adds Cole Hamels to MLB Draft Studio Team

MLB Network has added Cole Hamels to its MLB Draft coverage this weekend. The former World Series MVP expands the network’s analyst lineup for the annual event.

What We Know: Cole Hamels will join MLB Network’s coverage of the MLB Draft, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday in Philadelphia. The first round will air on both MLB Network and NBC, while MLB Network will carry comprehensive coverage throughout the event. Hamels joins returning analysts Greg Amsinger, Mark DeRosa, Harold Reynolds, and former general manager Dan O’Dowd. Additionally, the former Phillies ace enters his second season as a part-time analyst on Philadelphia Phillies broadcasts for NBC Sports Philadelphia, giving him recent television experience alongside his decorated playing career. In an interview with the Philadelphia Inquirer, MLB Network producer Chris Roenbeck shared insight into why they wanted Hamels.

What They Said: “When we started brainstorming months ago, we quickly thought of Cole, given his decorated career with the Phillies and being a first-round pick. We’ll go to him early and often for pitching insights, relying on his unique perspective, which will only enhance our broadcast.” -MLB Network Producer Chris Roenbeck

What Remains Unclear: MLB Network hasn’t detailed exactly how Hamels’ responsibilities will be divided during the two-day broadcast. It’s also unknown whether his role will extend beyond this year’s draft coverage or lead to additional national assignments with the network.

What It Means: Hamels brings credibility from multiple perspectives. He was a first-round draft selection, developed into a World Series MVP, and has already gained experience behind the microphone in Philadelphia. As a result, MLB Network adds another analyst capable of explaining pitching evaluations while connecting draft prospects to the realities of reaching the major leagues. That combination could strengthen the network’s coverage as baseball spotlights its next generation of talent.

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Yung Joc Signs Two-Year Extension At Streetz 94.5

David Hill
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Yung Joc Signs Two-Year Extension At Streetz 94.5

Core Radio Group has locked in Yung Joc for two more years. The hip-hop personality will continue leading mornings on Streetz 94.5 WWSZ in the Atlanta market.

What We Know: Yung Joc has hosted mornings on WWSZ since November 2016, building one of the market’s most recognizable shows. He is currently joined by co-hosts Mz. Shyneka and Shawty Shawty. The show also airs nationally through Superadio Networks across more than 15 markets. Additionally, Streetz TV has expanded the program’s reach into the visual media space.

What They Said: Yung Joc reflected on the renewal with enthusiasm. “Core Radio Group gave me the platform to connect with the culture in a whole new way,” he said. “With Super Radio taking us into over 15 markets and Streetz TV bringing us to your screens, we’ve built something incredibly special. We’re turning the energy up even higher for the next two years.” Core Radio Group CEO Steve Hegwood added that signing Joc was a top organizational priority, calling him a premier media personality.

What Remains Unclear: The financial terms of the extension have not been disclosed. It is also unclear how many additional markets Superadio may target during the contract period. The specific scope of upcoming digital initiatives and community activations has yet to be detailed publicly.

What It Means: This extension signals Core Radio Group’s confidence in personality-driven, multi-platform programming. By combining terrestrial radio, national syndication, and visual content, the company is building a model beyond traditional broadcast. Furthermore, Joc’s long tenure in Atlanta gives the show deep cultural roots to expand from. This deal reinforces that local authenticity and national reach can coexist effectively.

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 Hill Launches Insider Subscription Tier

Garrett Searight
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The Hill Launches Insider Subscription Tier

The Hill is expanding its subscription business. Nexstar Media Group hopes premium content attracts its most engaged political readers.

What We Know: The Hill officially launched The Hill Insider, a new subscription offering designed for readers seeking deeper political reporting and exclusive access to its newsroom. The new service features two membership levels, starting at $5.99 per month or $59.99 annually. Meanwhile, a premium option costs $9.99 monthly or $99.99 annually and adds ad-free reading plus VIP access to live events. Importantly, The Hill will continue offering its standard news coverage at no cost. Instead, the new memberships focus on premium newsletters, expanded analysis, interactive video discussions, and behind-the-scenes editorial content. New subscribers can also begin with a 14-day free trial.

What’s At Stake: Subscription revenue has become increasingly important for digital publishers as advertising markets remain competitive. Consequently, The Hill is attempting to strengthen its relationship with loyal readers while creating a recurring revenue stream beyond traditional advertising. The strategy also complements Nexstar Media Group’s broader efforts to grow its national media brands alongside its television station portfolio.

What Remains Unclear: The Hill hasn’t disclosed subscriber targets or long-term financial expectations for the new membership program. Whether exclusive features like live newsroom discussions and specialized newsletters drive sustained growth also remains to be seen.

What It Means: The move reflects a broader shift across digital media toward premium experiences instead of broad paywalls. By keeping its core journalism free while reserving additional analysis and exclusive access for subscribers, The Hill hopes to grow audience loyalty without reducing its overall reach. If successful, the approach could provide Nexstar Media Group with another scalable digital revenue opportunity while reinforcing The Hill’s position as a leading destination for political news and policy coverage.

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.

KDAO-FM Drops Soft Rock for 90s Hits Format

David Hill
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KDAO-FM Drops Soft Rock for 90s Hits Format

OnTheGoMedia flips Iowa AC station to 90s Hits format. The move adds another outlet to Shawn Dietz’ growing Iowa radio network.

What We Know: Effective Monday, July 6, OnTheGoMedia flipped KDAO-FM Eldora/Marshalltown from AC “Soft Rock 92.9” to 90s Hits “Rewind 93.” The format centers on Pop and Rock hits from the decade, with core artists including Matchbox 20, Sheryl Crow, Alanis Morissette, and Goo Goo Dolls. OnTheGoMedia began operating KDAO-FM and its sister station, Oldies 1190 KDAO, under an LMA agreement on May 1.

What They Said: Owner Shawn Dietz made clear the flip is about more than music. “We are incredibly excited to introduce Rewind 93 to our listeners, but this transition is about much more than a new music format,” Dietz said. “By bringing KDAO-FM into the RadioOnTheGo network, we are doubling down on local news, sports, and weather.” He added that the goal is keeping audiences informed and engaged while delivering advertisers meaningful access to listeners.

What Remains Unclear: It’s unknown how quickly Rewind 93 will build a distinct audience identity in the market. Additionally, programming specifics — such as local air talent, syndicated content, or automation — have not been disclosed. How the format will differentiate from other 90s-leaning stations in the region also remains to be seen.

What It Means: OnTheGoMedia is steadily expanding its Iowa footprint. Beyond KDAO-FM, the company operates Classic Hits 98.9 KQCR-FM Parkersburg and Country/Classic Rock 104.9 KLMJ-FM Hampton, along with the Hampton Chronicle newspaper. The Rewind 93 launch signals Dietz is building a multi-format cluster with a clear local-first strategy. If executed well, the move could strengthen the network’s overall position across Central Iowa.

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.

John Clay Wolfe Show Expands to 116 iHeart Stations

David Hill
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John Clay Wolfe Show Expands to 116 iHeart Stations

The John Clay Wolfe Show is going national in a major way. A new multiyear agreement with iHeartMedia more than doubles the show’s distribution, expanding from 55 stations to 116.

What We Know: Beginning July 11, the four-hour Saturday morning program will air on iHeartMedia stations across the country, including WAXQ-FM in New York, KYSR-FM in Los Angeles, KOSF-FM in San Francisco, and KZPS-FM in Dallas. The show’s live YouTube simulcast continues alongside the expanded radio rollout. Additionally, the show will broadcast live from Jay Leno’s Garage on July 25, with Leno appearing as a special guest.

What They Said: Wolfe credited the show’s longevity to authenticity over format. “For 20 years we’ve never tried to fit into a radio format,” he said. “We’ve simply tried to make people laugh. The cars brought people to the show, but the stories, characters, the guests and the friendships are what kept them coming back every Saturday.” iHeartMedia Division President Eddie Martiny called it “one of the most entertaining and engaging programs in radio.”

What Remains Unclear: Financial terms of the multiyear deal were not disclosed. It is also unclear whether additional affiliate stations are planned beyond the initial 116.

What It Means: This deal stands out as a genuine bright spot for terrestrial radio. At a time when the industry faces ongoing consolidation and cutbacks, a personality-driven show more than doubling its distribution is notable. The Wolfe Show’s growth demonstrates that distinctive, audience-connected content still commands real value on the FM dial.

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.

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