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K105 Youngstown Morning Host Doug James Dies

BMM Staff
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K105 Youngstown Morning Host Doug James Dies

K105 morning host Doug James has died at the age of 71 after a brief illness, Cumulus Media has confirmed.

James spent more than 35 years at the Youngstown country station, working in morning drive alongside Mary Ann Graff since 1991.

“We mourn the loss of our dear friend and colleague, Doug James, Morning On-Air Co-Host, K105, who passed away on Thursday, January 8th, at the age of 71 after a brief illness,” Cumulus Media Youngstown Vice President and Market Manager Bill Kelly shared.

“Doug loved all of K-Country and was passionate about the music, the artists, the listeners, and our community, and was a devout supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis. He believed helping our community of listeners was as important as having them listen daily. Doug set the standard for morning radio in the Valley. He will be profoundly missed by all of us at Cumulus Youngstown. We send our heartfelt condolences to his family and his many friends.”  

Graff shared that James — who died on Thursday, January 8th — had been sick in recent months during an on-air tribute to the host on Monday morning.

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Pat McAfee: A “Large Percentage” of Sports Journalists Hate Sports

BSM Staff
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Pat McAfee: A “Large Percentage” of Sports Journalists Hate Sports

ESPN analyst Pat McAfee sparked a social media firestorm Monday morning, taking aim at sports journalists in a lengthy tweet following a viral postgame interaction between Jacksonville Free Press reporter Lynn Jones and Jaguars head coach Liam Coen.

The controversy began after Jacksonville fell 27-24 to the Buffalo Bills Sunday. During postgame media availability, Jones offered an unusually supportive message to Coen, praising the team’s season, encouraging the coach to “hold his head up,” and concluding with a “Duval” shoutout. The 19-second clip circulated widely online, drawing both criticism from some reporters and praise from fans who saw it as a rare moment of humanity in postgame coverage.

McAfee, known for his unfiltered commentary, weighed in on those who criticized the moment via Twitter. He called out sports journalists as “curmudgeon bums” and asserted that a “large percentage of these things hate sports.”

In his post, McAfee argued that many reporters view sports as a vehicle for personal advancement rather than a source of joy or societal connection. He wrote that some are “political journalists by nature who’ve preyed on sports because they saw it as an easier path to ‘make it.’”

“They hate what sports are for people (happiness).. They hate what sports are for society (unifier),” wrote McAfee. “We as a society have to stop taking these particular humans seriously. Their opinions and thoughts are coming from a place of wanting to destroy sports.”

McAfee continued by saying, “Sports are the greatest thing on Earth, these motherf***ers have no idea… and will never get it.” He also praised Jones’s question, saying it highlighted how Coen, “a man who might be a G.O.A.T. when he’s done,” responded with class and humility during a difficult moment.

The tweet quickly went viral, reigniting a debate over professionalism and tone in sports media. Critics argued that reporters covering games have limited time to ask questions. They also said that injecting fandom into postgame interactions can blur journalistic lines.

Supporters countered that media often takes itself too seriously and that small moments of encouragement, like Jones-Turpin’s, remind audiences that sports coverage doesn’t always need to be adversarial.

McAfee’s comments underscore the ongoing tension between journalists’ role as critics and their connection to the games and communities they cover. McAfee has never shied away from his criticism of traditional media while his program has seen rise in the digital sports media space.

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Dave Portnoy Tells NFL on FOX Analyst Greg Olsen His “Stock Is Rising” Following Criticism of Tony Romo

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Dave Portnoy Tells NFL on FOX Analyst Greg Olsen His “Stock Is Rising” Following Criticism of Tony Romo

Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy weighed in on NFL broadcasting Monday, giving FOX analyst Greg Olsen a vote of confidence while criticizing CBS Sports analyst Tony Romo.

On FS1’s Wake Up Barstool, Portnoy told Olsen, “Your stock keeps going up. There’s a guy on the other network, he looks like he’s on drugs or something when he’s calling games. Your stock is going up. Congrats for that.”

Portnoy’s comments followed his criticism of Romo’s opening segment during Sunday’s Buffalo Bills–Jacksonville Jaguars game, which he described as “the most nonsensical rant I’ve ever heard.”

Romo began the broadcast by attempting to set the stage for the matchup but left viewers, and apparently Portnoy, scratching their heads.

Romo said, “It is wide open. I don’t think we’ve ever seen it where you’re like, who’s going to win? I don’t know. I’m pretty good at football knowledge, and I’m like, I don’t know. Today’s going to be very telling. Jacksonville is a complete football team. They can surprise a lot of people. Carolina did that yesterday. They earned the respect. Almost winning that game,” said Romo. “Jacksonville is in that same situation. They can do it. This could be a major upset, even though it’s really not an upset. It’s the Bills that are actually underdogs, but they’re the overdog.”

While Romo’s reputation as a former Dallas Cowboys quarterback and CBS analyst is built on in-depth breakdowns and high-energy calls, Portnoy argues the opening commentary seemed disjointed and confusing. In contrast, Portnoy praised Olsen, drawing a sharp comparison to what he viewed as Romo’s rambling delivery.

Portnoy’s critique underscores an ongoing conversation about NFL broadcast expectations. In addition, as audiences become more discerning, analysts are judged not just on knowledge but also on how effectively they communicate it.

Social media has amplified these discussions, with high-profile voices like Portnoy influencing public perception in real time.

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Fundraiser Launched For 105.9 WMAL Morning Co-Host Julie Gunlock Following Medical Emergency

BNM Staff
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Fundraiser Launched For 105.9 WMAL Morning Co-Host Julie Gunlock Following Medical Emergency

105.9 WMAL morning co-host Julie Gunlock has suffered a health challenge, and a fundraising page has been launched in an effort to help offset increasing costs.

Last week, Gunlock suffered what has been described as a “medical emergency” and is now recovering following the situation. The GiveSendGo page for her says the road ahead is “long and challenging.”

Larry O’Connor, who hosts morning drive on 105.9 WMAL, spoke highly of Julie Gunlock. He urged listeners and followers to donate to the cause if able.

“This is extremely difficult news to share,” O’Connor wrote in a post on social media.

“Our friend, my co-host and my unofficial sister, (Julie Gunlock) is experiencing a serious health challenge,” he continued. “She and her husband and her three incredible sons, all teenagers in high school, need our help.”

A $30,000 goal was established for the fundraiser. As of this publication, more than $20,000 has been raised for the 105.9 WMAL morning co-host.

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Zach Gelb Joins 365 Sports Following Exit From Infinity Sports Network

BSM Staff
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Zach Gelb Joins 365 Sports Following Exit From Infinity Sports Network

National sports talk personality Zach Gelb is taking his distinctive voice to a new platform, joining 365 Sports and Rogue Media Network for a weekday radio program. The show will air Monday through Friday from 2–4 p.m. Eastern, marking Gelb’s next chapter in sports broadcasting.

Gelb is widely recognized for his tenure on CBS Sports Radio and the Infinity Sports Network. Where he hosted The Zach Gelb Show from 2018 to 2025. His experience navigating national sports dialogue and connecting with listeners has made him a prominent figure in the industry. With the move to 365 Sports and Rogue Media Network, Gelb expects to bring a combination of analysis, personality, and interviews that have become hallmarks of his career.

“The Zach Gelb Show is back! I’m joining 365 Sports & Rogue Media Network,” Gelb posted to social media. “Can’t wait to talk to you all again & much thanks to Cory Dickman, John Vilade & their team for their belief in me.”

Gelb contributes as a studio host covering the Dallas Cowboys, NFL, and college basketball for Compass Media Networks.

Over the years, Gelb has built a broad portfolio. He hosted shows across major platforms like SiriusXM, WIP, WFAN, WPEN-FM, and WNJE. A Temple University graduate, he began his on-air journey at age eight. Foreshadowing a career defined by curiosity, insight, and an innate understanding of sports audiences.

Gelb was one of many talents who announced last month that he would not be joining the new Westwood On Sports network as the Infinity Sports Network, BetMGM Networks merged.

With this move, Gelb joins a growing list of nationally recognized sports broadcasters leveraging new media platforms to reach broader audiences. He blends traditional radio sensibilities with modern engagement strategies. Fans can tune in starting next week to catch his weekday show live on 365 Sports and Rogue Media Network.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

Kentucky Sports Radio Announces Merger With Cats Illustrated

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Kentucky Sports Radio Announces Merger With Cats Illustrated

Kentucky Sports Radio announced Monday a merger with longtime University of Kentucky athletics media outlet Cats Illustrated, combining two of the most prominent voices in UK sports coverage.

The move brings together more than 20 years of reporting, commentary, and fan engagement. It creates a centralized platform for UK fans to access news, analysis, and insider information. For years, KSR and Cats Illustrated independently built devoted followings. The merger aims to provide a comprehensive experience under a single digital roof.

As part of the integration, Justin Rowland, a leading source for UK football recruiting information, will contribute his work to KSR+. Rowland has guided fans through recruiting trends and breakdowns for over a decade. He will continue serving as editor of the Cats Illustrated premium message board, House of Blue, which will now also be hosted within the KSR+ subscription.

Veteran journalist Jeff Drummond, one of the longest-serving UK sports reporters online, will also join KSR. Drummond will report for House of Blue and serve as the site’s lead UK baseball correspondent. With Drummond and Rowland onboard, KSR strengthens its editorial lineup across multiple sports, ensuring consistent coverage for Wildcats fans.

The merger maintains both domain names and offers a dual-tier approach for readers. KentuckySportsRadio.com continues as a free site, managed by Tyler Thompson, while KSR+ provides subscribers access to two message boards: KSBoard, featuring all KSR writers, and House of Blue, managed by Rowland.

Over the last three decades, UK sports coverage online has evolved. The KSR-Cats Illustrated merger consolidates this history, bringing longtime contributors such as Thompson, Franklin, Rowland, Drummond, and others together for the first time on one platform.

KSR owner Matt Jones expressed excitement for the new opportunity.

“I no longer run KSR or operate it day-to-day, but I still own the name. I want to ensure the coverage continues the legacy we began. Tyler and Drew have led the site to amazing heights in the last five years. I couldn’t be more proud of their work in keeping KSR a dominant force. I am confident that with this move and the addition of Justin and Jeff. KSR is positioned to deliver the most complete coverage of UK sports of all time.”

The combination of KSR and Cats Illustrated aims to provide UK fans a single destination for news, recruiting, analysis, and discussion. This move further solidifies the brand as a leader in college sports media.

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106.1 BLI Moves Ally Ali to Middays, Cat to Afternoons

BMM Staff
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106.1 BLI Moves Ally Ali to Middays, Cat to Afternoons

Changes are being made at 106.1 BLI, including moves for Ally Ali and Cat to new dayparts.

After previously working on both the station’s morning show and in afternoon drive, Ally Ali is moving to Middays. She’ll leave the 3-7 PM window and now take over the 10 AM-3 PM timeslot occupied by Tory, who had been in the daypart since 2024. With the changes, Tory will move back to the station’s production department in a full-time capacity.

Ally Ali will remain a member of The Skye Morning Show, airing from 6-10 AM, as part of the changes.

With Ali’s move from afternoons, Cat — the station’s nighttime host — has been elevated to afternoon drive.

“These moves reflect our commitment to developing strong, local talent and delivering the best possible experience to our listeners,” said 106.1 BLI Director of Operations, Branding, and Programming Chris Lloyd. “Ally Ali and Cat have both proven they can connect, entertain, and deliver, and we’re thrilled to see them shine in these new roles.”

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MIX 105.1 Adds Elizabeth Kay, Radar Hess in Mornings & Letty B Middays

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MIX 105.1 Adds Elizabeth Kay, Radar Hess in Mornings & Letty B Middays

MIX 105.1 in Madison is shaking up its weekday schedule, introducing a new lineup. Elizabeth Kay and Radar Hess officially take over mornings starting today, airing from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. CT, while Letty B joins the station for middays, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. CT.

Brett Andrews, Brand Manager for MIX 105.1, highlighted the new team’s ability to engage the community.

“Having worked alongside Elizabeth and Radar for over a decade, I can say they are the epitome of professional broadcasters. They form incredible connections with every listener, both on and off the air,” Andrews said. “Pairing these Wisconsin natives with the legendary Letty B creates a local connection that speaks directly to the Midwest heart, helping Madison start their day and power through their workday.”

Kay and Hess bring years of experience in Wisconsin radio, having hosted mornings on Audacy sister station 99.1 THE MIX in Milwaukee. Their return to Madison marks a homecoming for the duo, who have cultivated loyal followings across the state.

Letty B is no stranger to Midwest audiences either. She currently hosts middays on B96 in Chicago and 99.1 THE MIX in Milwaukee. At MIX 105.1, she replaces Megan Leatherberry, who transitions to sister station 94.9 WOLX.

The full weekday lineup at MIX 105.1 is structured to deliver consistent programming throughout the day:

6 a.m. – 10 a.m. CT: Elizabeth & Radar in the Morning

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. CT: Letty B

2 p.m. – 7 p.m. CT: Chris Michaels

7 p.m. – 12 a.m. CT: The All Night Party Mix

Listeners can tune in to MIX 105.1 on FM or stream online to hear the new weekday lineup.

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PBS News Ends Weekend Broadcasts After Federal Funding Cuts

BNM Staff
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PBS News Ends Weekend Broadcasts After Federal Funding Cuts

PBS News has announced that it has ended its weekend news broadcasts after funding cuts from the federal government.

On Friday evening, the outlet revealed that the weekend of January 10th and 11th would be the final broadcasts of its weekend news programming

“There has been a lot of news on weekends,” anchor John Yang said. “I can think back to the October 7th attacks in Israel, the first assassination attempt on President Trump, President Biden dropping out of the presidential race. This — I like to call it — small but mighty team handled all these stories week in and week out. We’re proud of the creativity, the dedication they brought to each and every segment, week in and week out.”

Yang added that he’ll be departing the outlet at the end of the month, ending his run with PBS News.

The news that PBS News Weekend would conclude its run comes just days after the Corporation for Public Broadcasting revealed that its Board of Directors had officially voted to dissolve the organization after federal funding had been slashed last year.

Previous reports questioning the future of PBS News Weekend shared that roughly 35 positions, both on-screen and behind the scenes, would be affected if the program were to shutter.

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WFAN’s Gregg Giannotti: Al Michaels’ Return to ‘Thursday Night Football’ a “Mistake”

BSM Staff
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WFAN’s Gregg Giannotti: Al Michaels’ Return to ‘Thursday Night Football’ a “Mistake”

Legendary broadcaster Al Michaels is set to return for another season of Thursday Night Football on Prime Video, a decision that has sparked debate among sports media. On Monday, WFAN hosts Gregg Giannotti and Boomer Esiason weighed in during their Boomer & Gio show, offering perspectives that ranged from reverent to critical.

Giannotti acknowledged Michaels’ storied career while questioning whether it’s time for him to step away.

“Al Michaels calling games just has to stop at this point. He’s been one of the world’s greatest broadcasters. I’ll have great memories of him for a very long time,” Giannotti said on WFAN Monday. While honoring Michaels’ legacy, he suggested the veteran announcer’s performance may have slipped in recent seasons.

“I just think that he has hung on a little bit too long. He doesn’t sound like himself any longer,” Giannotti added. “Maybe two years ago he did, last year not as much. Now I think it’s finally over for him. But he decided he’s going to come back next year, which I think is a mistake. If he wants to do it, he’s obviously earned that right.”

Giannotti also offered his opinion on potential successors for the Prime Video booth if Michaels were to change his mind in any fashion.

“When he decides to hang it up, I’d give it to Kevin Harlan. That’s what I would do. I mean, they want some energy? That would stand out,” he said on WFAN Monday, highlighting Harlan’s award winning persona and the importance of a dynamic presence he feels is needed on Thursday Night Football.

Michaels has served as the lead play-by-play voice for Amazon’s Thursday Night Football package since 2022, continuing a career that has made him one of the most recognizable and trusted figures in sports broadcasting. Last week, The Sports Business Journal reported Michaels is set to return for the upcoming 2026 NFL season.

Esiason, on the other hand from Giannotti, underscored the deference given to iconic figures like Michaels.

“When you’re legendary, you get to do this. You get to go as far as you want to go. As long as you’re good at what you do, and people can count on you being there and knowing the rules. Knowing how to get in and out of games and plays, and get to the commercials. Nobody does it better,” he said, framing Michaels’ longevity as a combination of skill and earned respect.

Michaels has called NFL games for several networks, including NBC’s Sunday Night Football and ABC’s Monday Night Football. His presence has been both celebrated and scrutinized, with some praising his consistency and experience while others question whether he can still deliver the high-energy broadcasts viewers expect.

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