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Why Nate Burleson Is One of the Most Versatile Personalities on Television

John Molori
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Why Nate Burleson Is One of the Most Versatile Personalities on Television

You would think that we would have to wait at least until the NFL Draft next month to talk about CBS’s Nate Burleson. However, there are no limitations or constraints on this news and sports personality.

Burleson is a television sensation. He is the media version of Sir Thomas More, and like the name of the play in which More was the lead character, Burleson truly is a ‘Man for All Seasons.’ The comparisons with this historic figure do not end there. More was a man of integrity, unwilling to compromise or fit into a societal mode.

Burleson has followed that same path.

In 2021, the former Vikings, Seahawks, and Lions wide receiver joined the CBS Mornings news program. There have been many regional and local sportscasters who have made the move to news, but let’s face it. Burleson was not only making the move from sports to news. He was also making the move from being an ex-player to sports to news.

Despite that leap, the chameleon that is Nate Burleson seamlessly transitioned into the role of journalist, filing reports on mental health as well as other hard news topics. The ability to get beyond the screen and truly speak to viewers goes a long way in television.

Nate Burleson has this ability, bringing integrity and heart to every story.

Former New York Giants standouts Tiki Barber and Michael Strahan made the move from player to sportscasting to news with quite different results. Barber’s run on NBC’s Today was relatively brief, while Strahan has become this generation’s Dick Clark, thriving in numerous roles across multiple networks.

The difference is that both Barber and Strahan were top-flight NFL players. Moreover, Strahan is a Hall of Famer who won a ring in Super Bowl XLII as the Giants downed the then-undefeated Patriots in that memorable game. In addition, both Barber and Strahan played in New York, the world’s media capital. They lived in the Big Apple limelight, making it easier to transition from sports to sportscasting to news to entertainment.

Burleson had none of these advantages. He played in smaller NFL media markets like Minneapolis, Seattle, and Detroit, and never won a Super Bowl in his 11-year career. Burleson had some nice moments as a receiver and returner, but you would not have put him at the top of your list as a player destined for TV stardom.

Still, on the air, he is confident, prepared, and always ready to offer unique insight into any discussion—a dude who is equal parts flash and facts.

Burleson is obviously serious about his work, but he does not take himself too seriously. This has been evident in many of his assignments, including serving as the host of Nickelodeon’s NFL Slime Time, a program directed at a younger audience with a fun, kid-friendly style.

In fact, most networks and shows are now trying to appeal to a younger audience. The men ages 25 to 54 target days are done. It’s more like diapers to diploma now. Burleson is tailor-made for this trend, and not just because of his impeccably tailored suits. He looks cool, acts cool, and communicates cool. He can take a punch as well as throw one and does not mind being the butt of a joke if it’s good for the show.

An Emmy Award-winning studio analyst for CBS’s The NFL Today pregame, halftime, and postgame shows, Burleson has added a chic yet edgy players’ mentality since joining CBS Sports in 2017. He is not your typical player-turned-broadcaster. Armed with a degree in communications from the University of Nevada, he has been training for this position for a long time, and it shows.

Despite his growing stardom, Burleson strikes me as a guy who does not forget from whence he came. He made his TV bones as part of a terrific cast on NFL Network’s Good Morning Football (GMFB). Although he left that show for a higher-profile and higher-paying gig, Burleson still makes periodic guest appearances on GMFB.

His love of NFL Network is apparent, as is his legacy. On NFL GameDay Highlights and NFL GameDay Final, host Chris Rose often uses Burleson’s signature line “toe drag swag” when a receiver makes a great sideline catch. Rose always credits and pays homage to Burleson as well.

It is always a treat to see Burleson back with his GMFB mates because, when he was there, the chemistry on that program was unmatched.

In addition to sports and news, Burleson has also ventured into the glitz and glamour of the entertainment field. He was a correspondent for Extra, interviewing the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Chris Rock, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and Lady Gaga, among others.

Currently, he is the host of the latest incarnation of the classic game show Hollywood Squares, following in the footsteps of TV icons Peter Marshall, John Davidson, and Tom Bergeron. On the show, he smoothly banters with the Hollywood likes of Drew Barrymore, Anthony Anderson, Tiffany Haddish, and others.

According to his CBS bio, Burleson also creates art, poetry, and music, is in the restaurant business, and has his own clothing line. While Burleson was born in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, he is the definitive American success story.

He grew up in Seattle and was drafted in the third round by the Vikings. He worked himself into a reliable possession receiver whose lightning-fast speed also made him a dangerous kick returner around whom special teams coaches had to game plan. Today, this versatility continues.

This past weekend, Burleson served as host of Road to the Final Four, CBS’s preeminent March Madness pregame show. There, he sat alongside veteran college basketball experts like Clark Kellogg, Bruce Pearl, Kenny “The Jet” Smith, and Charles Barkley.

Burleson did not just hold his own, he held court. He was an ideal host for this show—asking questions, moving topics along, coming in and out of video and breaks, and letting the quartet of basketball heavyweights do the heavy lifting.

In short, Burleson did what he has done at almost every turn in his broadcasting career: he flourished. There is no doubt that Burleson is on a very unique roll. Good for him, he has earned it.

As an NFL player, Burleson was unafraid to catch passes over the middle and return punts through a rash of rabid would-be tacklers. He still has that mindset, boldly breaking molds and smashing typecasts. There is no ceiling in sight for this guy. He is constantly creating his own launching pads and soaring into new stratospheres.

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.

Why CNBC’s Morgan Brennan Wants to Set the Agenda with ‘Morning Call’

Garrett Searight
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Why CNBC’s Morgan Brennan Wants to Set the Agenda with ‘Morning Call’

Morgan Brennan has a new alarm time: 1:30 AM. The CNBC anchor is the driving force behind the network’s revived Morning Call, a rebuilt 5 AM ET program she describes as destination television for a growing community of early risers.

“It’s a new show, it’s a new name, it’s a new vision, it’s new graphics, it’s a new studio. And it’s a new panel lineup,” Brennan said. “It’s a new lens, a new way of approaching the news — in terms of how we’re covering the headlines, how we’re analyzing them, how we’re offering insight, and how we’re offering nuance and context to the conversation, which sometimes I think is missed.”

Building a show from scratch isn’t simple. It takes, as Morgan Brennan puts it, “a lot of coffee, a lot of teamwork, some experimentation, and trial by fire.”

But she’s drawing on more than a decade of experience to make it work.

“I’ve worked at CNBC for 12 years now,” she shared. “I started as a general assignment reporter and somebody who spent a lot of time doing field reporting, which is still something that I love to do. Before that I was in magazines — I worked for Forbes. So I’ve learned the ropes in terms of what it is to report out a story, tell a story, but also to actually show a story.”

That background shapes the show’s core mission. Brennan and her team want Morning Call to feel different from the business news programs that came before it.

“How do we make business news on television captivating and smart and fun and welcoming?” Brennan said. “Especially at this time of the day, where you have a blue chip audience — decision makers and go-getters and power players and CEOs and policymakers — tuning in and getting an early start on the day.”

The 5 AM ET hour might seem like an afterthought to some. Morgan Brennan doesn’t see it that way. She argues it’s one of the most consequential slots in all of business news — and she’s got a compelling case.

“We’re prime time in Asia. We’re late morning in Europe,” said Brennan. “What’s special about this hour is that you’re bridging international markets coverage with US coverage. You’re bridging geopolitics with domestic policy, and you’re getting to take a holistic approach to all of that — set the tone around it, contextualize it, and offer insights to the headlines of the weekend and of the morning.”

That bridging role comes with real pressure. Markets move fast, and the 5 AM window is often where the day’s narrative first takes shape. Brennan has seen it happen repeatedly during the show’s soft launch period.

“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve started the hour and stock futures have been trading one way, and 30 minutes later it’s a completely different story because something has moved the markets,” the Morning Call host said. “Next thing you know, stock futures have turned negative, treasury yields have started moving higher, and the narrative has changed course. So how do we change course with that? How do we bring those insights to our viewers in real time?”

It’s a challenge she welcomes. Staying current, though, demands relentless effort. Brennan describes the pace of the news cycle using a vivid analogy.

“It reminds me of Red Queen syndrome, where you’re running to stay in place,” said Brennan. “The news flow is so big, so never-ending, so fast-moving. You can have multiple news cycles in a day.” She added that managing it all requires “a lot of reading, a lot of talking to people both on camera and off camera, a lot of digging through data — and constantly staying on top of and monitoring information as it’s coming across my desk in all of its forms.”

The schedule is demanding, too. Still, Brennan’s embraced it.

“My 25-year-old self was probably going to bed at the time I’m waking up now,” the CNBC host shared. “I like hitting the ground running — and I think our viewers like hitting the ground running too, which is why they’re tuning in at this time of day. I think there’s a very big and growing community — the ecosystem, if you will, of early risers — and we’re looking to tap into that ecosystem and build it out.”

On Morning Call, one element Morgan Brennan is especially excited about is a rotating panel of regular contributors she’s assembling to analyze headlines each morning.

“We’re building out a panel of trusted experts who’ll be regular contributors to the show,” said Brennan. “That’s really special to CNBC, and I think it’s special to this show.”

Ultimately, she sees the program as more than just a timeslot. It’s a launchpad.

“Would you rather set the agenda or react to it?” Brennan said. “We’re building an early riser community here. It starts with the show — but that’s where it starts. That’s the launchpad for a bigger ecosystem that we intend to leverage and support.”

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.

3 Things Broadcasters Need to Do After Landing a Big Interview

Garrett Searight
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3 Things Broadcasters Need to Do After Landing a Big Interview

The world of media is built on moments. Sometimes those moments fall into your lap. Other times, you have to go out and create them. Either way, broadcasters who recognize a big moment — and maximize it — separate themselves from the competition.

The recent news that Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy landed the first interview with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu got me thinking. What should stations and networks actually do when they secure a major interview?

The answer seems obvious. But based on what I’ve seen throughout the industry, it’s worth spelling out.

Promote the Hell Out Of It

You’ve got the goods. Now tell everybody.

Securing a major interview is only half the battle. The moment you lock it in, your promotional machine needs to kick into overdrive.

Every platform you own — radio, television, social media, email newsletters, your website — should be screaming about it. Let your audience know who you’ve got, when it airs, and how they can watch or listen.

Don’t assume your audience will stumble across it. They won’t. You have to bring it to them. Push notifications. Social posts. On-air teases. Cross-promote it across every show on your station leading up to airtime.

If you’ve got a morning show, they should be talking about your afternoon interview. If you’ve got an afternoon drive host, they should be pointing listeners toward the evening broadcast.

Promotion isn’t a one-time announcement. It’s a sustained drumbeat. You’ve earned the right to make noise — so make it.

Tease the Hell Out Of It

Clips are currency. Spend them wisely.

Before your interview ever airs, you should already be releasing pieces of it. Pull a compelling 60-second clip and push it to social media. Find the sharpest exchange, one of the most newsworthy soundbites, or the most surprising moment — and let people see it early. Give your audience a reason — outside of sheer name recognition — to tune in.

Smart broadcasters don’t just promote an interview in the abstract. They show people what’s coming. There’s a big difference between saying, “We’ve got an exclusive interview airing tonight,” and actually showing 45 seconds of a leader making news. One is a promise. The other is proof.

Use a snippet in a morning show tease. Drop a clip on Instagram. Post a short preview on YouTube. Each piece of content you release before airtime is another hook.

Not everyone will see every post — so don’t be afraid to tease it more than once. The goal is to create anticipation.

Make your audience feel like they can’t afford to miss it.

Portion the Hell Out Of It

The interview airing isn’t the finish line. It’s the starting gun, really.

After it airs, your job isn’t done — it’s just entering a new phase. Have clips ready to go for the shows that follow. If the interview didn’t air during drivetime or primetime, that’s especially critical. Most of your audience may have missed it live. They need another entry point.

Turn your station into an echo chamber. Have hosts react to the biggest moments. Dissect the conversation. Replay the most newsworthy exchange in your next newscast. Post the full conversation on your website and YouTube channel. Break it into shareable segments for social media.

Every show that follows the interview is an opportunity to extend its shelf life. Don’t waste those hours. Use them to drive continued engagement and remind your audience why your station is the place where news gets made.

These steps might sound obvious. But they’re not always followed. Too many stations land a solid interview and then treat it like any other piece of content.

That’s a mistake.

Wasted promotional opportunities aren’t easily replicated. When the moment presents itself, you have to be ready to squeeze every last drop out of it. Capitalize — or watch someone else do it instead.

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.

Brendan Carr Under Fire as Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell Question the FCC’s Nexstar-Tegna Decision

BNM Staff
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Brendan Carr Under Fire as Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell Question the FCC’s Nexstar-Tegna Decision

FCC Chair Brendan Carr is facing Bipartisan pressure over the agency’s approval of Nexstar’s $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna. Senate Commerce Committee Chair Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-WA) sent Carr a strongly worded letter on March 30th. They want answers — and fast.

The senators are questioning why the FCC‘s Media Bureau, rather than the full commission, signed off on the deal. The merger would create the largest local broadcast television group in U.S. history, combining 259 full-power television stations across 44 states and reaching nearly 80% of American TV households.

Cruz and Cantwell argue that a transaction this massive demanded a full commission vote. Approving it at the bureau level, they warn, risks making any future commission review “largely procedural.” That’s not oversight — that’s rubber-stamping.

The deal’s most controversial element is an expansive waiver of the 39% national audience reach cap, a limit Congress set to curb broadcast consolidation. The FCC also granted exemptions from local ownership rules, allowing Nexstar to hold three major full-power stations in certain markets. Critics say both moves stretch regulatory authority well beyond precedent.

The legal challenges are already piling up. DirecTV secured a temporary restraining order in federal court last week, arguing the merger distorts retransmission consent negotiations. Eight states, led by California, are pursuing antitrust and consumer protection reviews. Newsmax filed a separate federal court action alongside six cable industry associations, contending the approval violates the national ownership cap.

Conservative organizations — including CPAC, the National Religious Broadcasters, and the Zionist Organization of America — have filed amicus briefs supporting Newsmax’s suit. Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy didn’t mince words, calling the approval “perhaps one of the biggest TV merger approvals ever contemplated.”

Cruz and Cantwell also flagged a serious procedural problem. Because the bureau — not the full commission — issued the decision, challengers must petition the commission before heading to court. That delay could allow integration to advance so far that unwinding the deal becomes impossible.

The senators are demanding a response from Carr by April 13th. The clock is ticking, and the broadcast industry is watching closely.

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.

K104’s April Fool’s Day ‘Freedom Flag Project’ Gets Hudson Valley Listeners Talking

BMM Staff
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K104’s April Fool’s Day ‘Freedom Flag Project’ Gets Hudson Valley Listeners Talking

K104 in the Hudson Valley knows how to make noise. The radio station grabbed attention Tuesday with a clever April Fool’s Day stunt — and the audience responded.

K104 launched a satirical blog styled as a breaking national story. It introduced the fictional “Freedom Flag Project.” The feature presented four bold flag redesign concepts ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. Each concept pushed tradition to its limits

The ideas ranged from expanded star arrangements to continent-wide symbolism. Listeners were invited to vote on their favorite design and jump into the social conversation, which they did.

Hudson Valley listeners quickly took sides, debating designs, and sharing opinions. The stunt generated exactly the kind of organic engagement every local station chases.

“This was all about creating a moment,” the station said. “We wanted something that felt real, got people talking, and brought a little fun and creativity to an important milestone like America250.”

Pamal Broadcasting COO Chuck Benfer made clear this effort reflects something bigger than one stunt. “One of our missions is to bring radio back to the fun, irreverent and unpredictable days that made our industry great,” shared Benfer. “Live, local, relevant and relatable are how we will cut through the noise and capture attention. I am so happy that our team is embracing our movement to making local radio amazing again.”

Local radio faces pressure from streaming, podcasting, and digital platforms. The stations that win are the ones creating moments listeners can’t get anywhere else.

K104 did that Tuesday. A fictional flag, real conversation, and community engaged.

The America250 milestone arrives this July. Expect more stations to chase cultural tie-ins between now and then.

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Mike Wickett Added to Westwood One Sports Weekend Programming

BSM Staff
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Mike Wickett Added to Westwood One Sports Weekend Programming

Mike Wickett did not stay off the air for long. Just days after signing off from Lazer 103.3 in Des Moines, the former morning host has announced his next move. Wickett revealed on social media that he is joining Westwood One Sports as a weekend host, marking his return to broadcasting on a national stage.

“I’ve been waiting to let the cat out of the bag and now it’s time!” Wickett wrote. “Very proud to join the Westwood One Sports Network as a weekend host!”

The new role begins immediately. Wickett said he will be heard Saturday and Sunday nights from 6-10 p.m. CT on stations across the country.

The announcement follows Wickett’s departure from Lazer 103.3, where he spent the last five years as co-host of Heather & Wickett closing a run that helped him build a strong connection with listeners in Des Moines.

During his farewell post following news of departing Lazer 103.3, Wickett thanked the audience and reflected on his time in local radio.

“Local radio is truly special, especially in a city like Des Moines, Iowa,” he wrote, while also expressing appreciation for his co-host, Heather Lee.

Now, he turns the page to a broader platform. Westwood One Sports provides national audio coverage of major sporting events and reaches hundreds of affiliates. The network’s weekend programming often blends analysis, opinion and guest interviews, which should align with Wickett’s strengths.

“I can’t tell you how excited I am to be back doing my favorite thing: talking sports! I’m very excited for the NOW and I can’t wait for the future,” wrote Wickett. “Special thanks to Ryan Maguire & the entire Westwood One team for making this happen!”

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Skyview Networks Purchased by President/CEO Steve Jones

BNM Staff
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Skyview Networks Purchased by President/CEO Steve Jones

Skyview Networks has announced its President and CEO, Steve Jones, has purchased the company.

Steve Jones informed company employees of the move on Wednesday, stating that the leadership team will continue to operate the company.

Jones takes over the organization founded 30 years ago by Ken Thiele.

“First and foremost, I want to thank you all,” said Thiele. “Skyview Networks exists, and is respected across the industry, because of the talent, grit and customer commitment each of you bring every day. Since joining Skyview Networks, Steve has expanded our business portfolio and led with a steady focus on growth and stability. It is with this confidence in leadership that Skyview’s trajectory and momentum continues.”

In his statement to employees, Jones shared his gratitude for Thiele’s stewardship. He also thanked shareholders Diana Chamberlain and Dave Dickinson for their support in the acquisition process.

“On a personal note, I am proud of the team that has built and sustained Skyview Networks’ reputation across the industry,” Jones wrote. “This company is special because of you. Serving as the leader of Skyview Networks is a responsibility I take seriously, and I am committed to continue leading with transparency, respect and a long‑term focus on our people and business.”

Steve Jones joined Skyview Networks in 2019. He previously served as the Vice President and General Manager of ABC Radio for The Walt Disney Company. He originally joined ABC News in 1986.

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.

77 WABC Adds Fernando Mateo to Weekend Lineup

BNM Staff
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77 WABC Adds Fernando Mateo to Weekend Lineup

77 WABC is expanding its weekend programming, as Fernando Mateo is adding a weekend show to the New York news/talk station’s lineup.

Mateo is a familiar voice to New York radio listeners. He previously was a mayoral candidate in the city. Additionally, he’s the co-founder and spokesman for the United Bodegas of America, and the chairman of the New York State Federation of Taxi Drivers.

“There are 65 million Hispanics in the U.S. and New York City is home to nearly three million of this fast-growing population,” said 77 WABC and Red Apple Media owner John Catsimatidis. “When you factor in all of New York State, as well as our four neighboring states, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, it’s close to ten million Hispanics. With Mateo as part of our on-air lineup, we can super serve the needs and interests of the Hispanic community.”

Beginning on Sunday, he’ll launch No Excuses with Fernando Mateo. The show will air at 6 PM ET. According to the station, Mateo’s show will feature listener calls and interviews with community leaders.

“WABC is the most powerful talk radio station in America, and it’s an honor to join a place that isn’t afraid to tell the truth,” said Mateo. “No Excuses is exactly what this show stands for: accountability, action, and results. This program will be about real issues, real people, and real solutions, from the New York streets to the halls of government. I am bringing the voices of working New Yorkers directly to the airwaves.”

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.

Zach Goodman Added To Colorado Rockies Radio Booth On KOA 850 AM & 94.1 FM

BSM Staff
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Zach Goodman Added To Colorado Rockies Radio Booth On KOA 850 AM & 94.1 FM

The Colorado Rockies appear to have found their next voice in the radio booth. Zach Goodman, the son of longtime Denver broadcaster Drew Goodman, will join Jack Corrigan on KOA Radio broadcasts for the 2026 season.

Goodman recently completed a three-game audition during spring training, one of several candidates evaluated by the station. Following the announcement, Goodman shared his gratitude publicly.

“All glory to God! I’m so thankful to KOA Radio for giving me the opportunity to live out my dream,” Goodman said. “I’m blessed with the best family and friends in the world, whom I love so much. Rockies baseball is in my blood, and I can’t wait to experience every pitch with all of you!”

Initially, the team’s plan for 2026 remained unclear whether Corrigan would handle games solo or if the station would pursue a familiar option. Instead, KOA opted for an open audition process during spring training. Multiple candidates rotated alongside Corrigan, each receiving a small sample of games to showcase their style, chemistry and command of the broadcast.

Goodmann has worked the last two seasons as the lead broadcaster for the Amarillo Sod Poodles (Double-A, Arizona Diamondbacks). He will make his debut in the booth this Saturday as the Rockies host the Philadelphia Phillies.

The radio booth vacancy after a notable change to the Rockies’ radio team. At the conclusion of the 2025 season, veteran broadcaster Jerry Schemmel was informed he would not return to the booth. The move marked the second time Schemmel has been laid off by iHeartRadio in the past six years.

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.

State Department Settles Lawsuit with The Daily Wire Over Censorship Concerns

BNM Staff
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State Department Settles Lawsuit with The Daily Wire Over Censorship Concerns

The Daily Wire has announced it has reached a settlement with the State Department and other entities from a 2023 lawsuit over censorship concerns.

The Daily Wire and The Federalist sued after the Global Engagement Center funded and promoted companies, while the conservative digital outlet argued that it was frozen out for being deemed “disinformation.”

“Today marks an important day for preserving free speech in the digital era,” said Daily Wire CEO Caleb Robinson. “The U.S. government has acknowledged its censorship structures under the Biden administration, and will now be subject to limitations on similar behavior in the future.”

The New Civil Liberties Alliance represented The Daily Wire in the case. That organization helped demonstrate how the GEC was used by the Biden administration to target news outlets.

“We’re grateful to NCLA for representing us, and I also appreciate our co-plaintiffs’ efforts in this landmark case,” Robinson said. “We’re proud to join them in the fight for freedom.”

Financial details of the settlement weren’t released by the company.

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