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Boogie D Departs KCJK as Cumulus Reduces Staff

David Hill
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Boogie D Departs KCJK as Cumulus Reduces Staff

Cumulus Media’s latest layoff round hit Kansas City hard. Power 105.1 (KCJK) lost its entire on-air staff this week.

What We Know Morning host Shay Moore and Program Director Jowcol “Boogie D” Dolby departed during the cuts. Moore had hosted mornings since May 2023, following seven years at Hot 103 Jams (KPRS-FM). Dolby oversaw the station’s transition to Hip Hop in 2023. Leadership hasn’t announced a new format yet, though industry chatter suggests changes are coming.

What They Said Moore confirmed her exit on Facebook, stating: “Just got the word from management, I’m open and available to do whatever from now on! I am no longer working for Power 105.1 in Kansas City.” Meanwhile, Dolby posted on Instagram: “I just want to say thank you KC!! Thank you for rocking out with me for 7 years at 12noon for the noon mix!! Today was my last day and could be my last in radio something I have been since the early 90’s but other things will come along soon!!”

What Remains Unclear No timeline exists for KCJK’s programming return. The station hasn’t revealed its new format direction. Furthermore, replacements for Moore and Dolby remain unnamed. Cumulus hasn’t addressed how this affects Kansas City’s two-station Hip Hop landscape alongside KPRS-FM.

What It Means Although market speculation suggests a format change at KCJK, the station’s future still remains unclear. Two of its most notable personalities exiting marks a significant turning point. This upheaval reflects the broader pattern of recent Cumulus layoffs. Stay tuned.

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.

Peter Alexander On MS NOW Show Debut: I’m an ‘Advocate For the Facts’

Garrett Searight
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Peter Alexander On MS NOW Show Debut: I’m an ‘Advocate For the Facts’

Peter Alexander launched his new MS NOW program Monday, bringing his decades of political reporting to a solo show. The veteran journalist says State of Play will focus on facts rather than partisan advocacy.

What We Know: State of Play debuted at 11 AM ET Monday on MS NOW. Alexander joined the network after spending more than a decade at NBC News, where he covered the White House and national politics. The new program marks Alexander’s first solo broadcast after years as a correspondent and anchor. He also takes on roles as MS NOW’s chief national reporter and breaking news anchor. His comments about the new program came in an interview with Arlington Magazine. Alexander described the show as an opportunity to engage viewers while maintaining a focus on reporting and accountability.

What They Said: “MS NOW is a pro-democracy brand, and I hope to produce a show that is respectful and curious and inclusive. There’s no litmus test to watch; everybody is welcome. The show invites those who are making headlines and determining policy to sit down with me. I like to say that Americans deserve facts, not spin. I view myself not as an advocate for Republicans or Democrats, but as an advocate for the facts. That doesn’t change, no matter where I work.” -Peter Alexander

What Remains Unclear: Alexander enters a crowded cable news environment with a clear emphasis on political reporting. However, it remains to be seen how State of Play will distinguish itself from MS NOW’s other daytime programming.

What It Means: Alexander brings extensive Washington experience to a network seeking to establish its identity. His emphasis on facts and interviews could give MS NOW another recognizable journalist-led program as it builds its daytime lineup.

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Steve O’Donnell: Goal Is NASCAR Becoming a Network “Must-Have” Property

John Mamola
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Steve O’Donnell: Goal Is NASCAR Becoming a Network “Must-Have” Property

Steve O’Donnell wants NASCAR on every screen possible. The NASCAR CEO laid out his vision for the sport during a recent appearance on Bussin’ With The Boys.

What We Know: NASCAR’s media rights are currently spanning more than five partners. FOX Sports, Amazon Prime Video, Warner Bros. Discovery, NBC Sports are among them. But O’Donnell has bigger goals in mind by making the sport more of a “must have” as opposed to how networks may consider it today. The NASCAR CEO sat down for an exclusive interview with Bussin’ With The Boys to explain his outlook.

What They Said: (All quotes via Bussin’ With The Boys)

NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell wants NASCAR to be a destination sport for networks/steaming platforms: “We have a big opportunity now in the next three to four years to kind of come together. Right now I’d say, we’re a nice to have sport. When you look at networks and everything, not a must have. That’s the goal. We want to be a must have sport. If you’re any one of these networks, any digital, streaming, you better have NASCAR because that’s where eyeballs are going to be. We got to put ourselves in a position to do that. I think we’re on our way.”

NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell on his desires for faster growth than ever before: “When I started, we were we were literally chasing IndyCar. If we can just be bigger than IndyCar, this will be unbelievable. Now, I want to look at I want to be the fastest growing sport in the world. We got some work to do, but we got to rally around that and go.”

NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell on younger demos coming to the sport: “Attendance is up. Rating are up. The biggest thing for us, we’re seeing is young people. We used to be the king of the 55 year old demo. That’s growing, The young we were struggling. Now with Amazon, Fox, we’re seeing that younger demo grow, which is big for us. Now we got to keep them though.”

What Remains Unclear: O’Donnell didn’t specify which networks might expand or reduce their NASCAR commitments. His goals shouldn’t come as a shock, but regarding how he plans to achieve them remains unknown.

What It Means: NASCAR is betting its future on becoming essential, not optional, programming. Younger viewership gains give O’Donnell leverage heading into future negotiations. Still, turning “nice to have” into “must have” requires sustained ratings growth and added attention in a crowded marketplace. Ultimately, the next few years will test whether NASCAR could compete on a higher level with more adaptions and partnerships to showcase the sport to new audiences.

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Classic Country Radio Returns to 92.5 Mobile Market

David Hill
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Classic Country Radio Returns to 92.5 Mobile Market

Dot Com Plus flipped 92.5 W223BX Saraland/92.1 WZEW-HD3 Fairhope to Classic Country. The new “92.5 The Bandit” launched with Alabama’s “Dixieland Delight” and Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire.”

What We Know The company ended its R&B Oldies format after stunting for just one week. First, they rotated Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club” with Gwar’s cover version. Subsequently, they shifted to Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff” paired with Widespread Panic’s cover of “Hot In Herre.” This creative strategy built anticipation before revealing the new format direction.

What’s at Stake The Classic Country format directly challenges two established country competitors in the footprint. iHeartMedia operates 95KSJ (94.9 WKSJ Mobile) while Cumulus Media programs 102.7 WXBM (Milton, FL). Both outlets target current country audiences actively. This aggressive move suggests Dot Com Plus believes Classic Country can capture distinct listener demand.

What Remains Unclear Dot Com Plus’s larger strategic vision with these lower-power signals needs explanation. Why abandon the R&B Oldies format after such a brief run? What specific market research drove this Classic Country decision? Furthermore, the company’s long-term format commitment remains uncertain.

What It Means This flip reflects ongoing format experimentation across smaller radio markets nationwide. Ratings pressures and competitive dynamics drive rapid format changes constantly. Classic Country offers Dot Com Plus a differentiated lane away from current-based competitors. However, capturing audience attention requires sustained execution in this crowded marketplace.

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.

ESPN Launches Second Season of ‘Official Visit with Rece Davis’

John Mamola
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ESPN Launches Second Season of ‘Official Visit with Rece Davis’

ESPN is launching an official visit tour feature interviews with Rece Davis. The College GameDay treks around the county for a sit down with top coaches and players ahead of the season.

What We Know: Davis hosts ESPN’s College GameDay, which enters its 40th season in 2026. This marks his second straight year leading a multi-part college football feature series. This season follows 2025 visits with Bill Belichick, Ryan Day and others. The new series runs beginning today through August 14 across SportsCenter, with a compilation airing tonight at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN2. Guests include Indiana’s Curt Cignetti, Ole Miss’s Trinidad Chambliss, Miami’s Mario Cristobal, Texas Tech’s Joey McGuire and Notre Dame’s CJ Carr.

What They Said: ESPN producer Jonathan Whyley: “We’ve been doing some version of all-access on campus for more than 15 years. This year we wanted to push even further — getting Rece out of the studio and into the real spaces where these coaches and players live their lives. There’s something really special about spending time with them before the season starts. Because once fall camp opens and the games begin, everyone’s world gets smaller — the access tightens and the walls go up. Sitting with a coach in his favorite lunch spot or riding with him in his car, before any of that pressure sets in, gives you a completely different person. That’s what we’re chasing with this series.”

What Remains Unclear: ESPN didn’t provide any details on the selections of the schools represented this year.

What It Means: The series’ return signals ESPN’s push toward deeper, informal storytelling before access tightens once fall camp begins. It also builds momentum heading into GameDay’s milestone 40th season. The season kicks off September 5 from LSU for the show’s 500th road broadcast. For Davis, the series is an added layer he provides for the college football fan. Depth, insight, and reporting that builds on an already impressive resume with the network.

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iHeartMedia Strikes Video Podcast Deal With Disney+ and Hulu

Garrett Searight
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iHeartMedia Strikes Video Podcast Deal With Disney+ and Hulu

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.

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.

Danny Parkins: Luke Kuechly A “Unique” Hire For Netflix NFL Broadcasts

John Mamola
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Danny Parkins: Luke Kuechly A “Unique” Hire For Netflix NFL Broadcasts

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.

What They Said: (All quotes from The Colin Cowherd Podcast)

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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Lamont of Lamont and Tonelli Exit 107.7 The Bone After 37 Years

David Hill
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Lamont of Lamont and Tonelli Exit 107.7 The Bone After 37 Years

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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CNBC’s Deirdre Bosa Exiting to Launch AI-Focused Video Show

Garrett Searight
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CNBC’s Deirdre Bosa Exiting to Launch AI-Focused Video Show

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.

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Cumulus Media Adds Tom Goslowski to Buffalo Bills Programming on The Score 1260

John Mamola
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Cumulus Media Adds Tom Goslowski to Buffalo Bills Programming on The Score 1260

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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