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NBC News Reporter Kevin Tibbles Announces Retirement

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NBC News correspondent Kevin Tibbles has announced his retirement from the company. During Thursday’s edition of “NBC Nightly News,” the show aired a special tribute to honor his lengthy career with the network.

“Kevin, so many of us have looked forward to your stories that remind us of all the good out there and good people,” Lester Holt told Tibbles. “On behalf of your colleagues and our viewers, thank you for your storytelling and for your integrity and for lifting us up every night.”

Tibbles has been with NBC News since 1995 and based out of Chicago for the past 20 years. However, before that, he’s spent time in various covering warzones in Iraq, Bosnia, Afghanistan, Rwanda, Kosovo, and beyond.

Before joining NBC News, Tibbles spent 15 years as a National Correspondent for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), where he covered the fall of the Berlin Wall and the first Gulf War.

“Lester, it has been an honor, obviously, so many experiences, so many people, and I have traveled around the world and across this country – from North to South, East to West,” Tibbles said. 

“It has been a blessing working for you, working for NBC News. I only have friends, and it has been great bringing stories of ordinary, regular people to the rest of the nation.”

“The View” Welcomes Familiar Faces as Co-host in February

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ABC’s “The View” is welcoming some old faces next month to help celebrate the program’s 25th anniversary. 

People Magazine announced that Elisabeth Hasselbeck and Meredith Vieira would be returning to the show years after departing. Along with Hasselbeck and Vieira, Star Jones will be returning as a guest co-host after doing the role last September. J

Jones and Vieira were two of the show’s original hosts, sticking with the program from its launch in 1997 until both exited following the 9th season in 2006. Hasselbeck joined “The View” in Season 7 in 2003 and stuck around until 2013.

Next Friday, Feb. 4, Jones is expected to co-host the show. Meanwhile, the dates for Vieira and Hasselback’s return have not yet been announced.

2022 has only begun, so other names should be announced for a return to help celebrate the anniversary. With Jones, Hasselbeck, and Vieira returning next month, it’s only the beginning. 

Trevor Noah Hits Back at Joe Rogan for Remarks on Blackness

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Talk show host and comedian Trevor Noah appeared annoyed following comments made by podcaster Joe Rogan Wednesday. 

“The Daily Show” host was reacting to Rogan’s statements that were made in the fourth hour of his show on Tuesday regarding race and color. 

“The Black and white thing is so strange because the shades are such a spectrum of shades of people.”

“Oh my God! I’m not Black! I’m not Black! Joe Rogan’s right! I’m like a Caramel Mocha Frappuccino,” Noah joked before running off the set, pretending to be chased by the police.

“The police said I’m Black,” Noah said with a straight face as the camera panned back to him.

Rogan’s conversation with clinical psychologist and YouTube personality Jordan Peterson also addressed the origins of Africans.

“Unless you are talking to someone who is, like, 100% African from the darkest place, where they are not wearing any clothes all day, and they have developed all of that melanin to protect themselves from the sun, even the term Black is weird,” Rogan stated.

“The things these guys seem to be ignoring is that Black people didn’t call themselves Black,” Noah said. “You understand that, right? It’s not like Black people were like, ‘We’re Black.’ No. In Africa, we have tribes; we have cultures. Zulu, Xhosa, Baganda, Igbo, Wakandans!” 

Radio Host Wendy Bell Has Been Hired by Newsmax

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Pennsylvania talk radio host Wendy Bell has been hired by Newsmax TV to host a new show that debuts this weekend. 

According to a release, “Wendy Bell Common Sense” will begin Saturday. The show promises to bring a “lively approach to national issues.” 

The 21-time Emmy award-winning talent has been fired from multiple Pittsburgh area radio stations for her stance on a range of issues including removing historical statues and shutting down parts of the economy for COVID. 

Bell earned her Emmys while working at WTAE-TV but was terminated after she posted controversial comments on Facebook regarding still at-large shooters who killed five adults and an unborn baby at a Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania cookout. 

“Wendy Bell has had a remarkable career as a television journalist and radio host, and throughout it all has been an advocate of common sense and American values,” says Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy in a statement. “We are glad to have her on the Newsmax team.”

“People are hungry for common sense in this country, and that’s what this new program is about,” Bell said. “Telling the truth, having great conversations, talking about what really matters.”

Bell’s weekly show airing 4:30 p.m. ET Saturdays on Newsmax. The show also will air Sundays at 3:30 p.m. ET.

Lawrence Jones: ‘I’m Just Gonna Be Me on My New Show’

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Fox News host Lawrence Jones is speaking out about his new show which debuts on Saturday night.

The “Lawrence Jones Cross Country” host told Fox News Digital that viewers want a show that is “simple” and that they can relate to.

“I’m from Texas, and I’m too country to try and be fancy… if I try and start talking all high class, I’m going to butcher the word. I’m just gonna be me, and we’ll see what happens.”

Jones’ program is part of a trio of weekend programming changes at the network. The other changes affect Dan Bongino’s “Unfiltered” program, which will start at 9 p.m./ET. Brian Kilmeade, whose show also debuts on Saturday, will be seen at 8 p.m./ET.

“I started at Fox with no experience; they brought me in. I was a college student,” he said. “I’ve always been me… they’ve given me this incredible opportunity to have my own show.”

Jones said his show will reflect the news happening worldwide but added that he would throw in some fun topics to discuss.

“Lawrence Jones Cross Country” will air on Saturdays at 10 p.m. ET on Fox News Channel. 

The Right People Don’t Want to Run in Election Races

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We’re only one month into 2022, and many news talk hosts have probably already spent some time either on or off the air getting to know some of the individuals running for office this year.

Whether it’s U.S. Senate, the U.S. House of Representatives, state races, or even county or local races, there is one problem that continues to permeate politics: the right people don’t want to run.

By the “right” people, I don’t mean right-leaning (although yes, that would much be my preference). I mean competent, humble, well-intentioned public servants. So what happened to them, and why are they so difficult to find?

There are three main reasons that this is happening. 

1. Social Media

Social media platforms have allowed politicians to build a “brand” rather than focus on serving the people who elected them and getting things done to help the greater good. As a result, it’s no longer attracting serious people who want to focus on policy behind the scenes; it’s drawing too many people who have an interest in becoming stars on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

And admittedly, we, in talk radio and cable news, reward those folks with interviews and attention on our shows. We aren’t blameless here. 

Plus, when you think back to a pre-social media world, a House member, of which there are 435, would not get any attention in the media without the blessing of leadership in the party, which would theoretically make sure that this was a serious, worthy, individual. Instead, social media allows anyone to become a star, regardless of qualifications.

Now don’t get me wrong, there are many positives to social media, and I’m not here to turn the clocks back to yesteryear, but in terms of who politics is currently appealing to, this can be the wrong motivation for many. 

2. Dirtier Than Ever

Politics has always been dirty, but in 2022, what makes it worse is that they’re potentially dragging their entire life and family through the mud when one runs for office. While this is an extreme example, and this person is not technically a politician, use Supreme Court justice Brett Kavanaugh, as Exhibit A as to how politics can nearly ruin someone’s life over false accusations.

What solid person simply trying to give back to their community wants to run for office to deal with that? They can quickly join their HOA board and find local charities to support while avoiding an incredible amount of nastiness and headaches. 

3. The Fundraising Never Ends

In the House of Representatives, where elected officials are up every two years, the fundraising continues the day after winning an election. Due to the money in politics, House races in middle America cost millions of dollars. The fundraising is non-stop. This is true at most levels of politics in today’s environment. It’s an expensive game. 

How many folks who, once again, are looking to humbly serve their country as a public servant and work on policy want to spend a bulk of their time shaking down donors on a non-stop basis? It’s just not appealing. 

So, as a result, what do we get? Reality-star wannabes, social media sensations, and power-hungry hucksters. 

It’s a bad combination, and it’s damaging our country.

And don’t get me wrong, there are some gems out there who are genuinely running for offices across the board for the right reasons, but there sure aren’t enough in 2022. 

And we desperately need those folks to step up and turn the tide ASAP. Our country depends on it. 

10 Ways to Make Sales Work From Home Productive

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Do you need the energy of others around you to work harder or smarter? Are you the type who struggles to contribute to Zoom meetings? Do you lose focus quickly? Then maybe you need a check=up from the neck up about how you work from home.

For me, the challenges of working from home mainly stem from interruptions from pets, spouses, delivery people, and home chores. I need more discipline to stay on track to hit sales goals and not get distracted.

Here are 10 ideas for radio sellers adapted from Dan Disney of LinkedIn fame.

1. To-Do List

You need a plan for your day, just as you would at work. But building in some household chores would be wise. Remember, you are trading in the morning rush out the door and afternoon drive home for a walk to your computer and then to the TV at the end of the day.

For most of us, that’s at least an hour a day saved by staying home. Spend it as you wish but make sure you schedule it outside your prime selling hours.

2. Stay in Touch

This shouldn’t be hard for most of us with a corporate CRM tracking our moves. But don’t forget to plan social time with people from work who you enjoy.

3. Be Self-Employed

We are who we are when nobody is watching. This is your opportunity to have your own business and work independently. A promotion from work could be next if you conquer this stage.

4. Take a Break

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You took them when you were AT work, so why change? Don’t forget the internet surfing you did, the errands you ran, and the time you wasted hearing about your workmate’s problems. Try to make those breaks more productive by cleaning, paying bills, or playing with the dog. It’s good for your mental health.

5. Get Help

If you need help keeping things quiet for client calls, negotiate with anybody you have at home to help you. If you live alone and have a pet who interrupts things, consider taking your dog to daycare once a week so you can schedule your calls on that day and help guarantee you won’t be distracted.

6. Create an Office

Create a home workspace that is pure business. Post quotes and keep track of your sales. Let this be your workplace and concentration zone. If you pick up a paper, book, or report, don’t put it down in any other place but where it belongs! Please keep it clean each day you are done and all business.

7. Let Your Hair Down

If you have a good client who you have known for a long time but has never been to your home, here is your chance. Show ’em around! Take a Zoom call on the phone and show them your backyard, BBQ, or home theatre room. Let your dog bark at them or have your partner say hello.

8. Take Rewards

You are home and it will be easier than ever to achieve some personal goals by focusing on some self-care. Eat better. Exercise more. Be calmer. Maybe even consider the gas you are not buying as savings for a big night out.

9. Be Positive

Let positive quotes, blogging, and motivating YouTube hits be your distractions. You need positive reinforcement and will have to work at getting some.

10. Train

Study Zoom, social media, and other forms of prospecting. Dig into this new reality and see if you can make it work for you AT HOME.

Sean Thompson Named New Program Director of Arizona Sports 98.7 FM

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After going thru a nationwide search over the past few months, Bonneville Phoenix has found their man. The company has announced the hiring of Sean Thompson as Program Director of 98.7 FM Arizona’s Sports Station and ESPN 620 Phoenix.

Thompson has spent the past ten years in Atlanta with 92.9 The Game as its Assistant Brand Manager. He played a key role alongside former PD Terry Foxx building and developing The Game into a southeast sports radio powerhouse. Over the past two years with Foxx in Charlotte, he’s reported to Audacy VP of Programming Reggie Rouse, assuming more day to day responsibility. Among his duties, managing the station’s play by play partnerships with the Atlanta Falcons, Hawks and United FC, and keeping The Game’s talk shows on track and in a strong ratings position.

“It was going to need to be the ultimate opportunity for me to leave The Game and I’ve found it,” said Thompson. “With the talented talk shows, flagship relationships with all the local teams and full commitment to digital content, the potential for the Arizona Sports super brand is limitless.”

Thompson takes over for Rod Lakin, who left the station in October to become Sports Radio WIP’s brand manager in Philadelphia.

“Sean is the perfect person to lead Arizona’s Sports Station to new heights,” shared Bonneville Phoenix SVP/Market Manager Ryan Hatch. “He is strategic, creative, collaborative and we can’t wait to see what he will do to continue to grow the Arizona Sports brand on all channels.”

Thompson’s industry experience should serve him well moving into his new role. In addition to his work at 92.9 The Game, he’s also spent six years in Madison, WI as an On-Air host and Program Director, and five years with Westwood One working in their Affiliate Relations department.

Steve Malzberg: CNN Playing Down the Matter of Serious Crime

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RT America host Steve Malzberg said CNN host Brian Stelter is purposely playing down the significance of serious crime for political theater. 

The “Eat the Press” host attacked Stelter and other left-leaning commentators during one of his recent episodes. 

“People are getting stabbed, shot, and killed every day and Stelter mocks the reporting of it!” Exclaimed Malzberg. “Sick, sick, sick, stuff.” 

Malzberg said a newly released Fox News poll found 85% of Americans said their top concern was inflation and high prices above all issues, concerns about crime came in second with 81%. 

“All of this begs the question, Brian, what the hell are you doing?” Malzberg said before playing a clip of last week’s CNN morning show with network law enforcement analyst Michael Fanone.

During his appearance, Fanone discussed several ways in which law enforcement are being unfairly portrayed in the media. Fanone is a former U.S Capitol police officer who was also present during the Jan 6 riots. 

“He (Fanone) is talking about crime in this country,” said Malzberg. “Sounds like he would have made a great guest for Stelter’s show on crime, but apparently he didn’t fit Brian’s agenda. In fact, if Fanone would have said what he said on CNN on Fox, Stelter would have probably played it as an example of the evil Foxiverse.” 

“Eat the Press” is described as a “take-no-prisoners media critique.” Malzberg has hosted shows on Newsmax TV, WABC Radio in NYC, and on WOR Radio, also in NYC. To learn more about his show, click here.

Steve Doocy: I’m Not Hiding, Only Being Careful With COVID

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The Fox & Friends  program Tuesday reacted to how the media is portraying the comments made by Bari Weiss and Bill Maher on HBO’S “Real Time.” The comments centered on COVID and getting back to normal. 

Outlets like CNN and MSNBC have been critical of the pair. Both Weiss and Maher expressed frustrations with the virus. Weiss drew the ire of left-leaning pundits when she said she was “done with COVID.”

Brian Kilmeade, Steve Doocy, and Ainsley Earhardt tried to shed light on what Weiss and Maher may have been thinking. 

“The survivability is 98 percent. And you want to live your life running around hiding for two and a half years? Are you kidding? She’s 100 percent right,” Kilmeade said, referring to Weiss, who went as far as to disinfect food cans she bought at stores.

“I’m certainly not hiding; I’m just being careful,” said Doocy. “A lot of people, I’m in my 60’s, a lot of people over 60 are being careful because they don’t want it, and it’s killing 10,000 people a week.”

Earhardt said that people at higher risks require greater protection from the virus than children, who are less physically at risk and are bearing the brunt of the social distancing restrictions.

Kilmeade urged President Biden to change his messaging on COVID. “His message should be, my new message is living with it, not running from it, here is how, move, back to work.”