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Charlie Kirk’s Assassination Leads Barrett Media’s Top 5 News/Talk Radio Stories of 2025

BNM Staff
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Charlie Kirk’s Assassination Leads Barrett Media’s Top 5 News/Talk Radio Stories of 2025

2025 was a pivotal year for the news/talk radio industry. There was no contentious or wildly unpredictable election cycle to buoy the medium. Yet, the industry saw many highs, while also experiencing some of the lowest of lows following the murder of Charlie Kirk.

Here are Barrett Media’s top 5 news radio stories of 2024.

#5 – KMOX, WBT Get Full FM Signals

2025 was a year that was largely quiet on the local radio front. There weren’t many earth-shattering stories that we’ve seen in years past about high-profile departures, retirements of local titans, or the like.

But one of the largest stories was the addition of full-market FM signals for heritage brands like KMOX in St. Louis and WBT in Charlotte.

In St. Louis, KMOX added an FM simulcast on 104.1 FM. Previously, the station was heard on an FM translator at 98.7 FM in the market. However, beginning on Monday, March 24th, the station began airing on 104.1 FM. Additionally, KMOX also continues to air on 1120 AM.

The station’s move from its 250-watt FM translator to a full-fledged 50,000-watt FM signal coincided with the start of the Major League Baseball season. KMOX has long served as the radio flagship of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Meanwhile, in Charlotte, WBT moved from the 99.3 FM signal to 107.9 FM for full-market coverage.

The 99.3 FM dial position is equipped with 7,700 watts of power and is licensed to Chester, South Carolina, which is roughly 50 miles southwest of Charlotte. Its signal covers the southern and western suburbs of the city, but struggles to penetrate Charlotte proper.

The 107.9 FM signal — which previously hosted the Mix 107.9 brand — features 100,000 watts of power, and is licensed to Charlotte. It is the most powerful signal at the Radio One Charlotte cluster.

With the move to the 107.9 FM signal, WBT programming is slated to leave the 1110 AM signal it has been featured on for more than 100 years.

#4 – Curtis Sliwa Leaves 77 WABC, Vows Never to Return After “Betrayal” From Hosts, Owner

Curtis Sliwa is a New York news/talk radio staple, spending decades working in the format. That came to an end in 2025, as he departed 77 WABC to run as the Republican candidate for Mayor.

But in the lead-up to the election, Sliwa vowed to never return to the brand after hosts like Greg Kelly, Dominic Carter, and Sid Rosenberg — in addition to station owner John Catsimatidis — called for him to drop out of the race in an effort to increase the chances of Andrew Cuomo defeating Zohran Mamdani.

“Let me just say, Sid, I am directing my comments to everybody at WABC,” Sliwa said. “They have said I’m selfish. Selfish? Are you out of your mind? … But that’s why you will never see me at the studios of WABC again, never, no matter how this election turns out.”

Sliwa added that he feels attacked by his colleagues.

“I feel personally offended by what my friends and colleagues, many of whom I trained at WABC, many of whom wouldn’t have a job at WABC without me, have done,”  Sliwa said.

In the aftermath of his election loss, Sliwa has reiterated that he will never be heard on 77 WABC ever again, unless they’re reporting on a news item involving him. Most recently, he has served as a guest host on 710 WOR, filling in for The Mark Simone Show while its usual host is vacationing.

#3 – Dan Bongino Leaves Westwood One, Vince Coglianese Steps In

Plenty of news media figures announced they would join the second Trump Administration in the days following his election victory in late 2024. Few positions remained as the calendar flipped to 2025, but Dan Bongino secured a spot as Deputy Director of the FBI, leading to his exit from Westwood One.

In mid-March, Bongino bid farewell to his podcast and nationally syndicated radio show in a tearful goodbye.

“I want this on the record: Westwood One didn’t have to do this, folks. They didn’t,” said Bongino. “I’m not going to bore you with the details and be inappropriate, but I’m telling you right now, they couldn’t have been easier to work with. They were like, ‘You’re doing this for the country? We’re in.’ That was it. So anybody who tells you corporate America is a bunch of unkind, unfeeling (expletives)? You’re just wrong. You don’t live through what I live through.

“They couldn’t have handled this any nicer. Mary Berner, who’s the CEO of the parent company, got a lovely email from her as well,” Bongino continued. “We haven’t always agreed on everything, but I really appreciate you guys understanding,” Bongino said, as he fought back tears, “I really appreciate you all understanding why, why I had to do this.”

Bongino tabbed 105.9 WMAL host Vince Coglianese to succeed him on the show. He called the situation “the most unusual exchange in media that you will ever see.”

“This is a jealous industry. This is an industry where — there’s some people who help each other out — for the most part, when a guy gets a job, usually somebody else has to lose it. That’s usually how that works.”

Following Bongino’s exit, questions arose if Vince Coglianese would be able to sustain the audience built in the decade-long run of the show. Metrics from places like Podtrac and Triton Digital continue to show the VINCE show as one of the most popular podcasts — regardless of genre — in the nation.

#2 – Rumors Surround Howard Stern’s Future with SiriusXM Ahead of Contract Extension

In August, a report surfaced stating that Howard Stern and SiriusXM were unlikely to reach a contract extension as the end of his current deal neared.

That, somehow, morphed into discussions that SiriusXM had cancelled Stern’s show because he had “gone woke.”

Well, neither of those things was ultimately true, as Stern signed a three-year extension earlier this month to remain with the satellite radio company.

SiriusXM leveraged the talk about Stern to its advantage, running promos stating that Howard Stern would address his future the morning following Labor Day. That day came and went, with Stern not appearing on his show as previously scheduled. That only intensified the rumors that his demise with the company was nearing its end.

Stern ultimately spoke on the situation on Monday, September 8th. But not before having a little fun first. To begin The Howard Stern Show on that date, colleague Andy Cohen hosted the first segment of the show, stating that Stern had left the company after more than 20 years.

““I know you’re expecting a big announcement from Howard, and this is not how things were meant to go,” Cohen said. “This was supposed to be a cleaner handoff. I’m kind of winging it,” adding that it was a “surreal morning.”

“I can’t overstate what Howard has meant to this company and what he did for SiriusXM. He walked so that we could run. I can’t possibly fill his void,” Cohen continued.

However, Stern appeared on the show to insinuate he had struck a new deal — which didn’t come completely to fruition until December — to remain on the show after noting that the comments surrounding him and the discussion of his diminishing stature in American life, whether or not he still “had it”, and if he had “gone woke” fueled him to return to his show.

With the contract extension, Howard Stern will remain with SiriusXM until 2028.

#1 – The Assassination of Charlie Kirk

The assassination of Charlie Kirk might be the biggest story in all of 2025 in the United States, not just in news/talk radio. But it had a profound impact on the medium.

On September 10th, Kirk was shot and killed while speaking at a Turning Point USA event on the campus of Utah Valley University.

The killing set off a widespread chain of events, leading to all sorts of discussions about gun violence, political discourse, decorum, the place conspiracy theories hold in our collective culture, and other topics.

Charlie Kirk hosted The Charlie Kirk Show from 12-2 PM ET on Salem Radio Network, as well as another digital-only hour available on Real America’s Voice and YouTube, among other avenues. He had recently taken over affiliates from The Dennis Prager Show, which were moved to him after the network revealed that Prager would be unable to reassume his daily radio show.

In the wake of Kirk’s death, a slew of guest hosts — like Vice President JD Vance, Megyn Kelly, Glenn Beck, and Tucker Carlson — helmed the Salem Radio Network program. Furthermore, Kirk’s program saw a massive jump in the podcast rankings in the September and October figures from firms like Podtrac and Triton Digital.

Producers Andrew Kolvet and Blake Neff handled the majority of hosting duties in the weeks and months following Kirk’s murder. Ultimately, his show will be replaced in the Salem Radio Network lineup by the addition of Alex Marlow from 12-1 PM ET, and an expansion for The Scott Jennings Show — which joined the network’s offerings in 2025 — from 1-3 PM ET.

Hopefully, Barrett Media will never have to report on the assassination of another news/talk radio host. Charlie Kirk was only 31 years old. He is survived by his wife, Erika 00 who assumed his duties as CEO of Turning Point USA — and their two children.

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.

Dan Bernstein’s Departure From 670 The Score Leads Barrett Media’s Top 5 Sports Talk Radio Stories of 2025

BSM Staff
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Dan Bernstein’s Departure From 670 The Score Leads Barrett Media’s Top 5 Sports Talk Radio Stories of 2025

2025 was as eventful of a year as ever for the sports radio industry. While hires and layoffs again dominated many headlines, several industry shifts defined the year’s overall storyline. The sports radio landscape once again looks very different from where it started as comes to a close.

Barrett Media is looking back at sports radio’s top stories of 2025. The list is led by Dan Bernstein’s departure from 670 The Score in Chicago.

#5 – iHeartMedia Layoffs Force Format Flip at 97.3 The Game in Milwaukee

The fallout from layoffs is never easy. It’s difficult for staff from the management ranks down to the part-time board operators. However, the fallout from this year’s round of layoffs from iHeartMedia claimed one of the top sports radio brands in the company as Milwaukee’s 97.3 The Game flipped formats due to the round of layoffs within the market.

The first sign was the station cutting midday host Mike Heller in September after 25 years with the company. Then a month later, Barrett Media reported a format flip coming with the ongoing cuts with the company was near. 97.3 The Game served as the Green Bay Packers’ flagship station since 2022. Layoffs forced the station to flip to an Adult Contemporary format. The Packers broadcasts moved midseason to 95.7 Big-FM.

Program Director Tim Scott along with the highly rated morning show of Steve Czaban and Brian Butch were out. Several other hosts and producers also saw their name to the chopping block, while the remaining talent were subject to continue hosting shows for a YouTube audience and some coverage with the company’s Madison market.

Change leads to opportunity, which is what Audacy took advantage of with the hole that 97.3 The Game provided. The company formed the Wisconsin Sports Radio Network with Milwaukee’s 105.7 The Fan serving as the flagship, expanding reach into multiple markets where The Game was reached. It will be interesting to see how the Green Bay Packers radio rights move forward into 2026 and beyond. Good Karma Brands founder Craig Karmazin has expressed publicly he’d be interested in the rights returning to the company in the near future.

#4 – Westwood One Sports Adds Jim Rome, Takes Reins From Infinity Sports Network

When Audacy and Cumulus Media announced the merger of the Infinity Sports Network and the BetMGM Network to form Westwood One Sports, there was much speculation about the on air lineup. With the announcement coming just over two months before the targeted date of launch, many decisions had to be made and quickly.

One of those decisions was probably the easiest. Jim Rome was announced as the flagship afternoon drive show for the new network airing weekdays from 3pm-6pm est. The long standing successful program would serve as the face of the network as the other programming choices would have to be made.

As the partnership formed, Westwood One assumed programming and distribution for most syndicated sports shows. Audacy agreed to continue producing popular BetMGM Network programs on the new network. These include You Better You Bet with Nick Kostos and BetMGM Tonight. BetMGM remaind the presenting partner and the exclusive sportsbook partner of the BetMGM Network programs which made the new lineup.

Cumulus Media veteran programmer Bruce Gilbert then went to work. He hired former SportsRadio 610 program director Armen Williams to serve as the executive director of Westwood One Sports. The duo then sought out who would the new network house as their flagship weekday voices, taking a different approach instead of relying on much of the in house talent with the two former networks. The hires of Drake C. Toll in morning drive and middays with Chris Bleck and Adam Abdalla signaled a strategy based on not what has been, but what could be moving forward.

With the network officially launched as of yesterday, 2026 will be filled with storylines. They will focus on how Westwood One Sports bet on future growth over maintaining the industry’s status quo.

#3 – ESPN Radio Adds Rich Eisen

When Rich Eisen announced his return to ESPN in May of this year, many speculated if that would mean that ESPN Radio could also be a destination for the daily radio program. The original announcement only contained mentions of the show streaming on the upcoming ESPN direct-to-consumer platform and Disney+. Yet news of an official addition of Eisen to the radio network had still yet to be determined.

Then the summer came, and Eisen was returning fully to his home. ESPN rolled out the red carpet as Rich Eisen could be heard right in time for football season on ESPN Radio in addition to SiriusXM, and seen Disney+ and ESPN+ beginning in the fall. Since Mike Greenberg departed his radio show earlier this year, there were questions surrounding the focus of the radio network for the company. Many asked if ESPN Radio meant anything anymore as some of the biggest names in sports media have found other terrain to conquer after leaving the network.

The addition of Eisen to the ESPN Radio lineup was a loud response, and many major markets bought in. ESPN Chicago added Eisen to the lineup in a two-hour block. That was followed by ESPN Los Angeles keeping all three hours of Eisen in the second largest market of the country. ESPN New York and ESPN Cleveland were next in line. It was an all out assault to get Rich Eisen in as many markets as possible as the returning champion of the network came home. The marketing muscle of ESPN was in full swing with Eisen’s return coinciding with the launch of the network’s direct-to-consumer app.

Now, the questions that once surrounded the network have ceased. Eisen has become the face of what ESPN Radio’s current generation can hold up against its competitors. For the first time in over two decades, he found himself at home. He was in a better situation than when he had left it.

#2 – Craig Carton Returns to WFAN for Third Time, Major Lineup Shuffle Follows

When Breakfast Ball on FS1 was cancelled, the sports radio hot stove began to heat up. Craig Carton, who departed WFAN in 2022 for FOX Sports, was once again a free agent. Even though he was still signed with FOX Sports and was pivoting to continue his working relationship with the company, rumors began swirling about a third return to the station that he twice dominated in the ratings and headlines.

After months of speculation, rumor became reality. Craig Carton was returning to WFAN for a third time. He will continue producing his own podcast with Red Seat Ventures and FOX Sports. The news came as a surprise to no one. Even those who said it would not happen believed it eventually would. The decision itself to bring back Carton however had ripple effects on the rest of the WFAN lineup. With Carton already succeeding in two dayparts, questions emerged about how the lineup would take shape. There were also concerns about potential casualties resulting from the move.

Brandon Tierney and Sal Licata ended up in the end as the on-air casualties of the roster addition, and handled their exit with extreme class. WFAN announced that Evan Roberts and Tiki Barber would shift from afternoon drive to middays. Carton would move into afternoons with new co-host Chris McMonigle. The station worked with Tierney and Licata to ensure a professional exit. This allowed the two talents to leave on their own terms. A rare occurrence in the industry, but one that both took seriously and executed flawlessly.

Moving into 2026, WFAN begins the year with the second different on air lineup in the last three years. It will be notable to see if the addition of Carton breathes new life into the radio station that has been destination sports radio for New York City sports fans for generations.

#1 – Dan Bernstein Fired From 670 The Score

Without a doubt, the biggest sports radio story this year involved the firing of longtime 670 The Score host Dan Bernstein. After 30 years with Chicago’s sports talk leader, Bernstein was removed following a social media exchange. The incident involved a follower on Twitter, now known as X. Bernstein posted a photo of himself catching a large fish with the caption, “This was a helluva fight.” A follower claimed the fish was a pregnant northern pike. The user criticized Bernstein for killing it.

That reply sparked a contentious argument on the platform between Bernstein and the follower over the criticism of the photo. As the exchange escalated, Bernstein threatened the follower. As a result, he was suspended for a week and then fired. Bernstein was also removed from the board of directors of Camp One Step, a charity that provides camp experiences for children battling cancer.

Bernstein’s removal was celebrated by some, including Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy. It also was seen as an unfortunate moment where talent should use the incident to reconsider their approach to connection with social media. After over three decades, 670 The Score was on the hunt for a new lead host to retain the audience impact that Bernstein left behind and push forward into a new era for the radio station. Ultimately, Bernstein’s former co-hosts in Leila Rahimi and Marshall Harris were selected to take the reigns in April.

Bernstein remained quiet, never speaking out following his dismissal from his longtime home. Then over the summer, Bernstein announced his return. Not to the Chicago sports radio airwaves, but for an exclusive and unfiltered approach to a podcast called Dan Bernstein: Unfilitered.

He rejoined longtime executive producer Matt Abbatacola. Together, they became the destination podcast for Hubbard Radio under the 312 Sports network umbrella. Bernstein used the debut episode to break his silence on his exit from 670 The Score. Taking accountability, and sharing in his journey of therapy and self reflection. Using the unfortunate moment of the spring to turn a new leaf and find what he long missed about a love for sports and talking about sports.

The Dan Bernstein firing saga dominated attention across the industry. It was an easy choice as the top sports radio story of 2025.

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.

Sports Media Game-Changing Predictions for What’s Coming in 2026

John Mamola
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Sports Media Game-Changing Predictions for What’s Coming in 2026

The year 2025 brought several instances of seismic shifts in the sports media landscape. Leagues arranged new media rights deals, key figures shifted from network to network, and customary layoffs occurred in between. Sports media remained a buzzsaw of interest throughout the past year. This makes it difficult to predict what’s to come in 2026.

Looking back, could we have predicted that Michael Jordan would join NBC Sports in their return to NBA coverage? Might we have seen the writing on the wall that Craig Carton would make another return to WFAN? The game of predicting the future rarely provides a true outcome and more than likely would have ended as a “Freezing Cold Take” for Fred Segal to save for future use.

As we approach the beginning of 2026, I reached out to several members of the sports media community.
I wanted to learn what the biggest and brightest names believe will happen in the new year.

2025 was a year of change for Mitch Rosen, Vice President of 670 The Score and the BetMGM Network. The unfortunate events that led to the firing of longtime personality Dan Bernstein resulted in the elevation of Lelia Rahimi and Marshall Harris. Later in the year, Mark Grote was added as a full-time member of the program as well.

Rosen also oversaw the end of the BetMGM Network as it transitioned, along with the Infinity Sports Network, into the new Westwood One Sports network, which launched earlier this week.

When I asked Rosen what he predicts could happen in 2026 in sports media, he saw a continued pattern of growth. He believes the demand for localized sports content is only expected to increase.

“With local sports content, the adventures in video interaction will continue to explode. New platforms and new interactions with local audiences,” said Rosen. “Local sports content will continue to grow in the audio space. In particular, as other formats are challenged with finding new ways to find ears and eyes. I feel sports is constant in that local fans want to interact with local hosts and communicate about local sports.”

Rosen, considered by many a top sports radio programmer in the country, shared his perspective on 2026.
He believes questions about regional sports networks’ viability could contribute to an audio boom.

“Audio play-by-play sports could see a resurgence, especially given the uncertainty of regional sports networks,” noted Rosen. “Especially with the game of baseball. Baseball on the radio remains a special relationship between the team, fans, announcers, and the radio station.”

Mad Dog Sports Radio host Damon Amendolara also sees growth coming as the appetite for content continues. He feels the consumer will continue to find new ways to seek out content in 2026.

“Those of us in the creator space are engineering ways to make compelling, consistent content at bargain-basement production prices compared to traditional TV production costs,” said Amendolara. “I feel you’ll see more streaming channels search out podcasts and YouTube shows as programming on their model.”

Amendolara, who recently signed a multi-year extension with SiriusXM, noted that Netflix’s partnerships with Spotify, iHeartMedia, and Barstool Sports serve as an example of what’s to come in 2026 and beyond.

“Netflix adding those podcasts to their library is the first chapter,” said Amendolara. “Smaller streaming channels will realize what efficient programming this is and start licensing all levels of successful podcasts. Much like the era when linear TV sports channels realized sports radio shows could easily and cheaply fill hours of programming. The same land grab will happen with podcasts.”

Several other suggestions revolved around the future of the car radio, considered by many as the last dedicated spot where traditional broadcast radio dominates. Will companies make more efforts to remove traditional radio from the dashboard, further challenging consumption in 2026?

Former 105.7 The Fan host and reporter Jerry Coleman, who exited the station in 2022, has evolved into hosting digital content for several years. During that time, he has not lost his passion for sports radio. When I asked Coleman for his 2026 prediction, he foresaw significant cost-cutting measures in the industry. He said these cuts would be more extensive than ever before.

“I see the elimination of sports updates, and the people who voice and produce that content moving away,” noted Coleman. “Instead of the normal top-and-bottom-of-the-hour headlines, you’ll see more hosts and producers taking on the role than ever before.”

In that line of thinking, Coleman also predicts broadcast companies will take a hard look at three-person sports radio programs, as budget cuts are likely in 2026.

“I think we’ll see more changes with the three-person sports radio show,” said Coleman. “I can see broadcast companies looking at these programs as extremely costly and excessive, despite any success with ratings.”

ESPN Chicago host Marc Silverman sees 2026 as the year when sports media brands around the country grapple with the future of artificial intelligence.

“2026 will be a big year trying to navigate AI. Where it fits and where it doesn’t,” said Silverman, noting that his program Waddle & Silvy accepted AI-generated parody songs for the first time as part of the program’s annual holiday parody song content this month. “What is ethical when it comes to content creation, and what isn’t? There wasn’t a rule against it, but was using AI fair?”

Mark Moses, host of The Mark Moses Show podcast, also agrees that AI will make headlines in 2026. After moving his program away from traditional broadcast radio in 2025 to a daily podcast, Moses believes more broadcast companies may follow a similar path.

“Traditional radio broadcast companies are going to invest heavily in local sports/news video and audio podcasting to help grow revenue in their markets,” predicts Moses. “The key will be whether talent can create great local content that people want to consume. Also, can the talent utilize social media correctly to market their product.”

Other predictions included a decline in viewership of sports debate shows such as First Take or First Things First. Several sports media respondents noted that some of the audience is growing tired of “fake debate.”
Many feel a more genuine and honest approach to programming will attract more viewers. They believe it is more effective than “pandering” by others.

2026 could also bring a rising cost of consumption for sports fans. Respondents noted that escalating media rights deals by streaming companies will likely increase subscription costs. This could lead more fans to either find new ways to consume without paying for subscriptions or decide their fandom isn’t worth the added price tag.

A new year brings renewed excitement for what 2026 will bring to the sports media landscape. The leagues have never been more profitable, and fandom continues to grow, with more ways to connect to teams than ever before. The interest in games keeps sports media in business, and the appetite for content seems endless.

As 2026 approaches, one thing is clear: sports media will continue to evolve at a relentless pace. From AI-driven content and shifting broadcast models to the enduring power of local radio and fan engagement, the industry will face challenges and opportunities in equal measure. While no prediction is foolproof, the constant remains the passion of fans and the drive of those creating the content.

Change is inevitable, but as history shows, sports media will adapt—finding new ways to inform, entertain, and connect audiences, ensuring that the conversation never stops in 2026.

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.

The Passing of Pierre Robert Tops Barrett Media’s Top 5 Music Radio Stories of 2025

BMM Staff
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The Passing of Pierre Robert Tops Barrett Media’s Top 5 Music Radio Stories of 2025

2025 saw many changes take place across the music radio landscape. Barrett Media is reflecting on the top stories of the year by sharing this Top 5 list. Though lists can be subjective, we’ve used traffic, industry chatter and social engagement to help determine our order.

Familiar voices in both music and radio passed on during the year. Layoffs continued across numerous markets and companies. Stations flipped formats. Talent exited popular shows/brands such as The Fred Show, Mojo in the Morning, Preston & Steve, KROQ, KSHE and others. Even prominent programmers Keith Cunningham, Jim Ryan, Terrie Carr and others said goodbye to brands they helped make successful.

But new voices and leaders arrived too at winning brands like B101, Star 94, 105.7 The Point, and 103.1 The Wolf. Some shows expanded their reach and national business such as Tino Cochino, B-Dub, Murphy, Sam & Jodi, Jesse & Anna, and the Bret Mega Show. And Charlamagne tha God’s value to iHeartMedia and Premiere Networks was confirmed with a lucrative 5-year deal worth a reported $200 million dollars.

But topping our list for 2025’s top stories was the passing of WMMR personality Pierre Robert. The news sent shockwaves across Philadelphia and the rock music industry. Legends come and go in all industries, but the loss of Robert left a giant sized hole in the heart and soul of WMMR and the entire radio industry.

#5 – iHeart Takes a Stand Against Artificial Intelligence

AI usage is rampant across the world in various industries, but in radio, opinions are mixed. Some have used it to replace voiceover talent and on-air personalities. Others see that as a cardinal sin that goes against what makes radio special.

What isn’t debatable is where the industry’s largest radio operator stands. iHeartMedia has picked a side, guaranteeing all radio and podcast personalities and songs aired on their stations will be Guaranteed Human. Even as the music industry invests hundreds of million dollars in the future of AI music, iHeart is making it clear ‘it doesn’t air here unless it’s human’.

The new edict from Chief Programming Officer Tom Poleman emphasized the company’s commitment to companionship, connection, and authenticity. Those three qualities are seen as difficult to replace by AI.

Poleman informed iHeart employees that on November 24th, ‘Guaranteed Human’ would become a core part of the company’s messaging. He shared that it isn’t just a tagline but rather a company promise, reinforced through imaging to give listeners a greater reason to trust what they’re hearing each time they tune in.

In a memo to staffers, Poleman shared that research shows 70% of consumers say they use AI as a tool, but 90% want their media from real humans. 92% use social media, but 2/3 say it makes them feel worse and more disconnected. 92% say nothing can replace human connection — up from 76% in 2016. And 9 in 10 say human trust can’t be replicated with AI.

Poleman said iHeart does encourage using AI to help with business operations such as scheduling, workflow automation, data analysis, audience insights, editing, organization, show prep, etc.. However, when it comes to serving audiences, 96% find ‘Guaranteed Human’ content appealing, and iHeart is embracing it. He closed by adding, “Sometimes you have to pick a side — we’re on the side of humans.”

#4 – Connoisseur Media Purchases Alpha Media to Become Prominent Music Radio Player

The news broke on May 5, 2025. Connoisseur Media struck a deal to acquire Alpha Media. The purchase would expand the company from 11 stations to over 215, growing its footprint to 47 markets, reaching 20% of the United States.

The sale was finalized on September 4, 2025, the same day Warshaw spoke at Barrett Media’s News Summit in New York City. During a conversation with Barrett Media CEO Jason Barrett, Warshaw shared how he planned to bolster the company.

“We have great people, and we are going to continue adding people. Connoisseur has traditionally done business with extremely high market share, great ratings, huge sales staffs, and big involvement in our communities.”

Warshaw candidly shared how he discovered during market visits that a number of clusters lacked the resources to win. They had some staff but lacked vehicles and a street presence to compete against larger brands.

“That’s just not the way that we operate,” explained Warshaw. “If we’re going to be in a market, we’re there to win, to be a great place to work, where there’s positive energy, excitement, and enthusiasm for winning. Where we can get great results for our clients, and be intrinsic to our communities. If we’re going to be in the market, we want to be there to win and be the best level media operation.”

Warshaw’s passion and commitment for local radio was seen as a huge positive across the industry in 2025. Connoisseur would add more stations in October, acquiring Bonneville’s San Francisco cluster. The company would sell a few smaller locations not considered pivotal to their future business interests. The company’s programming leadership was put into Keith Dakin’s hands. Respected Alpha Media executive Phil Becker left the company as part of the acquisition.

#3 – Ebro Darden, Peter Rosenberg and Lauren Stylez Exit HOT 97

After 13 years in mornings, Ebro in the Morning was canceled by management at HOT 97 in New York City.

Speaking candidly on The Ebro Laura Rosenberg Show on YouTube, Rosenberg and Darden reflected on the show’s conclusion. They described the process as abrupt, impersonal and emblematic of an industry slow to evolve.

Rosenberg shared how he was informed of his termination. He explained that after a nearly 20-year run his exit was treated like a corporate transaction. Peter detailed months of uncertainty leading up to the decision, confirming that he worked without a contract for months.

Darden was outspoken about the company’s plans, previously warning that darker days were ahead. He said afterwards, “I’ve been telling y’all for months — years — that the new ownership of the big legend, HOT 97, didn’t give a damn about investing in this damn thing here. No new studios. Making cuts, cutting staff, cutting this, cutting that. Then I hear last Thursday, (Funkmaster) Flex tweeting about his last show and that they’re keeping our show on until 11 o’clock. I didn’t get an email, a text, a heads up, nothing.”

Despite the split, Darden and Rosenberg expressed love for HOT 97 and its audience. They made a point to distance both from its ownership group, MediaCo. Little has been said by the company since the cancellation of the morning show.

Meanwhile, Ebro, Stylez and Rosenberg have moved to YouTube. In just two weeks, the show has already generated nearly 40,000 subscribers. Superadio, the show’s national syndicator, is remaining in business with the trio too. They say they’re looking forward to the future.

As of this writing, HOT 97 has not named a permanent replacement in mornings. The station did hire three new digital voices. Funkmaster Flex has been filling in, adding that he accepted the morning show position starting in 2029.

That decision raises questions about the station’s morning plans for the next 3 years. What happens if the show is or isn’t successful during that time frame? MediaCo representatives will have to explain that once they announce their new direction.

#2 – The Bert Show Signs Off

The Bert Show officially signed off in Atlanta on Friday October 24, 2025, ending a remarkable 24-year run. Bert Weiss launched the program in 2001, growing it to more than two dozen affiliates around the nation. His career earned him an induction into the Georgia Radio Hall of Fame, recognition from the Friends of Georgia Radio Hall of Fame, and three National Radio Hall of Fame nominations.

As Weiss hosted his final show, he acknowledged how proud he was of what the show accomplished. He said the one thing he was taking with him was a big Bert Show sign that hung behind him. Bert explained that it wasn’t just a studio sign but a logo that represented uniting a city for 25 years.

The final episode of the show on Q99.7 went two hours past its normal end time. Former show members shared memories, family members detailed how much Weiss sacrificed for the audience, and Atlanta Mayor Andrew Dickens dropped by to thank Weiss for a quarter century of service to the Atlanta community. As expected, a trail of tears were produced as well.

Weiss’ oldest song Hayden joked that he didn’t think the day would ever come when Bert would step away. He figured his father would do the show until he was in hospice…in three years.

In signing off, Weiss said 25 years in radio is equal to a thousand years. He was joyful, grateful, and emotional as he thanked his audience for the final time. He explained that he was ready for retirement and hoped that the show provided an important lesson about the value of entertainment. No matter where we scroll, human connection is needed, and the Bert Show helped many do that.

#1 – WMMR Personality Pierre Robert Passes Away, Leaving Thousands in Philadelphia and Across the Music Industry in Mourning

Longtime 93.3 WMMR midday host Pierre Robert died in late October at the age of 70. He was found dead at his home. No cause of death has been announced as of this writing. The day prior to his passing, Robert spoke with Barrett Media writer Mike Stern. It would become his final interview. Fortunately, Mike recorded the conversation. It gave a look into Pierre’s radio soul, and showcased his love and passion for life, music, and WMMR. You can hear it through the video below.

Robert joined WMMR in 1981 and became known as the rock format’s voice of record in Philadelphia. He was the cornerstone of WMMR’s sound and spirit, known for his signature “Greetings, Citizens” greeting, warm personality, and encyclopedic music knowledge. He was as much a part of Philadelphia’s rock culture as the music he played. His longstanding features such as Noontime Workforce Blocks, Pierre’s Vinyl Cut, On This Day music history segments, and high-profile artist interviews became benchmarks for local listeners.

Some of rock music and Philadelphia radio’s most popular names offered condolences upon learning of his passing. During a conversation with Preston & Steve, on WMMR Shinedown vocalist Brent Smith said, “Anybody that knows our band knows that radio is such a major part of who we are. Pierre was a major part of that and will always be a huge part of what our band is. He may be gone in a physical aspect, but his light, love, and spirit is with us always. That’s what you have to remember.”

Robert was a philanthropist by nature. He was inducted into the Philadelphia Music Alliance Walk of Fame in 2019 for his work in helping countless local charities, and championing community events like the AIDS Walk.

Following his passing, WMMR created a celebration of life concert to honor their former colleague. The radio station streamed the event which took place before a sold-out crowd at the Fillmore. It included bands and performers Robert supported and loved. Among them were Brent & Zach of Shinedown, Lzzy & Joe of Halestorm, Ed Roland of Collective Soul, The Hooters, In The Pocket and more.

WMMR would later announce Matt Cord as the new midday host. Cord said of the honor, “Although no one can step into those sparkling high-top Converse and fill them, I’ve known Pierre [Robert] for 35 years. I was honored to do the midday show from 1994-1995 when Pierre moved to mornings. Along with MMR’s loyal listeners, I’ve shared so many cool moments with ‘The Duke.’ The people who have worked at the station over the years have formed a brotherhood and sisterhood. Pierre was at the heart of it. I promise to carry his amazing spirit into the studio bearing his name and do my best to make him proud.”

Barrett Media CEO Jason Barrett shared why Robert belongs in both the Radio Hall of Fame and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Here’s to hoping the memorable work Pierre did is celebrated again in 2026.

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 TV Mistakes That Can Sink a Long-Form Story

Krystina Alarcon Carroll
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3 TV Mistakes That Can Sink a Long-Form Story

You’ve made your list of TV interviewees, checked it twice, and (if you are a true journalist) are letting the audience figure out who is naughty or nice. Think your HFR or long-form piece is ready for air? Think again!

Make sure you’ve crossed your “T’s” and dotted your “i’s,” because there are a number of you who have made the news naughty list for not doing the right research.

Here are three major things you might have forgotten in your last long-form piece.

Check the SEC

If your subject is a publicly traded company, or owns a publicly traded company, you need to check the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for any recent or pertinent litigation.

This happened recently with a NewsNation special on a doctor treating cancer. The special was well done, had an interesting choice of graphics, and was informative. However, the producers failed to mention that ImmunityBio’s senior executives were recently investigated and settled because “the site where Anktiva was manufactured suffered from rampant and myriad CGMP violations.” That is a direct quote from the settlement earlier this year. (https://pomlaw.com/monitor-issues/pomerantz-secures-105-million-settlement-for-immunitybio-investors).

CGMP stands for Current Good Manufacturing Practice. These are regulations put in place to ensure pharmaceutical manufacturing safety. The FDA often stalls or delays approval for any drug if there are questions about manufacturing safety. One Google search of Anktiva and SEC can provide anyone with this information.

Failure to mention this in the original piece about Anktiva is a failure of journalistic duty. The team also failed to mention that if a drug is FDA-approved for one type of cancer, you can petition your own health insurance company to cover the drug — but that’s a different rant for a different day. Onward!

Opposing Opinions

Jacob Riis is often taught in J-school (which I did not attend) as great journalism. His muckraking style exposed “how the other half lives.” His series of photographs was a shocking reality for many Americans. But never once did he ask or show how the squalid lifestyle was better than the life this group of newly minted Americans was fleeing. In fact, this was an upgrade from the three months they spent on a boat and the possibility of starving to death in another country.

While Riis’ work is important, calling it journalism is a disgrace because it does not provide the full scope of the story, nor does it present opposing sides.

I know what you’re thinking: “But Krystina, it’s muckraking journalism. Doesn’t that count for something?” Adding “muckraking” in front of journalism is equivalent to saying “we are news from the left” or “news from the right.” The fact that you need to place anything in front of or behind the word “journalist” to define what you are doing negates the entire purpose of journalism.

Tell the full story, not just the parts you want.

Follow-Up

So many of us live for the “F— it! I’ll do it live!” vibe. We have a great story, it gets approved by our editors, it makes air, and some of y’all are so proud of the work that you start filling out the Emmy form well before submissions even open. Girl, bye.

The story is not done because you produced a long-form piece. You still need to push the story forward. This is often where local news is king and national news fails abysmally.

A great example of local news following a story comes from PIX11 in New York. James Ford, who is an incredible journalist and an even better friend, had the scoop on a whistleblower suing NYCHA. For those who don’t know, NYCHA stands for the New York City Housing Authority. It provides affordable housing for one in 17 New Yorkers. The problem? In many NYCHA developments, the elevators do not work or repeatedly break down.

Ford spoke with a whistleblower (link to the piece here: Whistleblower alleges NYCHA elevators are not monitored in new lawsuit), who is suing NYCHA for negligence. Some would have said the six-minute exposé was enough. But nay, nay — not a true journalist like Ford.

He went back to NYCHA, received a detailed tour of their training facility, then returned to the whistleblower for his response, only to go back once more to NYCHA and press them on key elements of the story. (Link here: Exclusive: NYCHA responds to claims of unsafe elevators.) Needless to say, the follow-up is ongoing, and the impact this lawsuit has on the lives of PIX11’s audience is profound. Ford and his management team understand how important it is to follow stories like these and refuse to let them fall by the wayside.

National news outlets need to take note, because there are so many issues affecting Americans across the country that are reported on once and never heard from again, like the cleanup in North Carolina after Hurricane Helene. Oftentimes, the media becomes so accustomed to “feeding the beast” by chasing what’s new that we forget the most important part of our job — staying connected to the stories and people we showcase.

So, happy Christmas, merry New Year. Take this time to reflect on the work you’ve done and make next year’s work better.

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.

Radio Industry Reflections of 2025 and Goals For 2026

Kevin Robinson
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Radio Industry Reflections of 2025 and Goals For 2026

Every year end, human nature takes over. We collectively review what we might have accomplished in our industry during the year as it disappears in the rearview mirror. Simultaneously, we envision through the windshield the New Year ahead.

In the rearview, our industry continues to adapt – sometimes the hard way. Safe, strict familiarity is no longer a sound strategy. Scale of formats and talent are hard to remain relevant while consumers reward brands that are unique and meeting expectations. Technology steamrolls forward, audio habits are fractured, and “pretty good” is no clearly longer “good enough”.

As the calendar marches to 2026, those who wish to thrive will need to open their minds – and ears – to a better understanding of audio branding. Winning means understanding that you are a multiplatform audio – and video – content provider. 

And what about A.I.?  A word about that at the end of this piece.

Over the holiday, I reconnected with a few radio pros that offered thoughts in the past in this space. I asked them for feedback to these specific questions:

  • What did you learn in 2025 – personally and professionally?
  • What do you expect to learn in 2026 – personally and professionally?

Perhaps their reflection on 2025 and vision for 2026 will spark you to do the same?

Taylor J: 104.5 WJJK Midday Personality – Director of Promotions – Cumulus Indianapolis

In 2025, I learned to manage my emotions better. We are in an industry that is all-consuming and in 2025 we experienced the all the highs and lows. We’ve all learned to celebrate a win but the losses have been plentiful. In my role of Director of Promotions for the group, wins are often shared in our department. We are always busy and the losses can sting pretty badly. I’m still learning to not take the stress of the year so personally, to separate work and home life.

I’ve also learned to embrace AI. It is here to stay and if used correctly, it can be a tool to help at work. I’m still a very casual user, but I’m learning that it can enhance not hinder the creativity that makes our industry so great. I’ve learned to delegate more. I’ve learned how to build a great team and when to cut losses with those that aren’t going to take you where you want to go, and how to give more to those who will take you where you need to go.

In 2026, I hope to learn how to better balance being the best Director of Promotions while also being a great on-air talent.  Maybe there are ways to work smarter – not harder to accomplish this. I hope I learn how to maximize the Nielsen changes (3 minute qualifier) to benefit WJJK. I’d like to learn the best uses of AI in my roles to work as efficiently and beneficially as possible. 

Dr. Len O’Kelly– Associate Professor of Journalism, Broadcasting and Digital Media – Grand Valley State University

2025 was a year of tremendous learning for me. I transitioned into the role of department chair, working with our faculty and students across four undergraduate programs and one master’s program. Perhaps the most interesting thing that I learned was that the role of academic department chair is a lot like the role of program director in radio. In both roles you are responsible for the messaging of the organization. You deal with talent (faculty), who sometimes have egos that must be managed. You deal with complaints (parents and students), and have to continually build a schedule of capable part-timers (adjunct faculty). There’s budget issues, competing for listeners (majors), and making sure that you are involved in the community.

It’s also a role that very few people want but is very rewarding and meaningful work. I also learned – or was reminded – of the difference between managing and leading. Managing is taking care of the “day to day” tasks that must be done in order for the lights to stay on, so to speak. Leading is different. Leading is inspiring others to sign on to your vision, to push themselves to bring their best every day. It’s providing example, taking on the occasional unpleasant task that must be done. And it’s advocating for resources, support, and the tools that your team needs to thrive.

For 2026, I hope to learn how the onslaught of technology will change what we do for radio instruction and preparing the next generation of storytellers. How will artificial intelligence affect what we do? How will terrestrial radio and streaming/podcasting coexist in a battle for the ears? And what do audiences want from us, anyway, in an environment rife with distractions and competition for attention?

I want to be sure that the students that I turn loose on the airwaves for the first time in January – about 30 eager young people – are up to the task. Not every one of them will choose our industry for a career. But every term I encounter about a half-dozen or so who seek the same magic that we sought when we were their age. My goal is to be the best resource that I can be for them as they begin their journey. To do so, I’ve got to continue to be a student of the medium myself.

Dr. Len O’Kelly teaches broadcasting in Michigan. His radio path took him through college radio followed by small, medium and large market positions before landing at Grand Valley State University. If you need a well-coach and hungry broadcaster, you should interview a few of those January 2026 graduates Len mentions above. Reach out by email at okellyle@gvsu.edu.

Kevin Avery– Co-Host – Kevin & Taylor Show – Star 94 – Atlanta

One year ago I would have never predicted that the Kevin and Taylor Show would have a new 2025 home at Star 94 in Atlanta!!

My advice for anyone going through a serious career change is to stay close to those that truly have your back. Never forget that you have valuable talent.

Also, reframe any downtime. You’re not unemployed, you’ve been given a gift to become a better version of YOU! Mentally, physically & spiritually.

I can’t wait to see what 2026 has in store for us at Star 94!! It’s going to be epic!!

David Moore – Operations Manager – Hubbard Radio – Phoenix

In 2025 I learned that a station-branded app is one of the most powerful audience-engagement tools you can possess. In 2026 I hope to learn how to make an even bigger impact via the app.

A Final Word From Yours Truly

2025 presented pre-scheduled but necessary health improvement challenges. You only have one body to protect and there’s no going back. This year I lost a few close friends and radio associates including the sudden and shocking loss of the remarkable Michelle Matthews. Make a re-contact list and make time to reconnect in person or on the phone. Tomorrow is far from guaranteed.

2026 will be shaped by the Indiana Jones-like idol ball gaining on us that we call Artificial Intelligence. Radio has embraced A.I. for decades. Vinyl records, cassettes, compact discs and digital cloud storage – all A.I that made us more efficient. Everything in our studios are classified as A.I.. How do we use this growing tech to improve our process without suffering a soul-sucking degradation of our product?

We will talk with thought leaders about this subject as the year progresses starting in January.

Thank you for being a loyal reader in this space. Let’s make 2026 our best ever.

Cheers!

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.

Point to Point Marketing Signs On as Presenting Sponsor of the Barrett Media Audio Summit

Jason Barrett
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Point to Point Marketing Signs On as Presenting Sponsor of the Barrett Media Audio Summit

Since 2018, Barrett Media has hosted conferences to help broadcasters across the country. What started as a two-day think tank for sports radio programmers in Chicago, expanded to live shows, later adding separate events for news talk media professionals. We’ve welcomed CEOs, Executives, Market Managers, Talent, Agents, Program Directors, Researchers, Advertising Leaders, and many others to our stages. The goal from day 1 has been to deliver a masterclass on the broadcasting business. We aim to help attendees become smarter, sharper, and more connected.

But when you create events independently, it takes a village to pull it off. I’ve told my team many times, I don’t expect to get rich hosting conferences but we can’t put ourselves out of business doing them. Every sponsorship and ticket sold matters. Each speaker who joins us and helps promotes the event is important.

On June 30-July 2, 2026, the Barrett Media Audio Summit will come to New York City’s SVA Theatre, and this year we’re doing things different. News/Talk will receive a full-day of focus on Tuesday June 30th. Sports media will own the spotlight on Wednesday July 1st. And on Thursday July 2nd, Music Radio takes center stage for the first time ever. We’re looking forward to the three-day show and I’m especially excited to announce Point to Point Marketing has signed on as the exclusive Presenting Sponsor of our 2026 show.

We have worked with Tim Bronsil and his team for years. Aside from doing exceptional work for broadcasting companies, they’re first-class people. They believe as do we that if you support the media industry it has a way of supporting you back. They focus first on doing quality work and delivering exceptional results. By taking that approach, it leads to satisfied and repeat customers.

Knowing that we’ll be reaching three different areas of the industry at our show, the right Presenting partner is important. I’m thrilled to have Point to Point on board as they add value across the entire media landscape.

“Point To Point Marketing is incredibly excited to serve as the presenting sponsor of the inaugural Barrett Media Audio Summit in New York City,” shared Tim Bronsil, CEO of Point To Point Marketing. “Jason Barrett and his team have built something special by bringing together thoughtful leaders, creators, and decision makers across audio and media. This event reflects that same level of intention and quality. We believe deeply in investing in community, meaningful conversation, and leadership development. We’re proud to support a Summit focused on ideas, growth, and the future of our industry.”

In the weeks and months ahead, we’ll book a lot of top notch people to speak at our 2026 event. A flood of requests have already come in and I greatly appreciate it. However, please understand that we will not be able to accommodate all requests. The Summit works best examining different areas of the business with accomplished experts in each lane. We will do that for this show too. The first group of names are going to be revealed in early January.

If you’ve never attended the show, I hope you will in 2026. If you have been to the show before, I hope you’ll come back. There are few opportunities in the audio business to connect, learn, challenge and celebrate, and this is one of them. Tickets are discounted through December 31st to help you keep costs down. You can secure your seat today right here.

My thanks again to Point to Point Marketing for their partnership and support of the Barrett Media Audio Summit. If time permits, I hope you’ll join me in thanking them too for making sure events like ours possible.

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 Announces MegaCast Plans for College Football Playoff Quarterfinals

BSM Staff
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ESPN Announces MegaCast Plans for College Football Playoff Quarterfinals

ESPN is doubling down on choice and immersion as it prepares to present more than two dozen viewing and listening options for the College Football Playoff quarterfinals, continuing its expansive MegaCast approach during the second year of the expanded CFP.

The four quarterfinal games air Wednesday, December 31, and Thursday, January 1. ESPN will serve as the home of the primary telecast for each matchup. Additional presentations will air across several ESPN platforms. They include ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPNEWS, SEC Network, ACC Network, ESPN Radio, ESPN Deportes, and the ESPN App. This gives fans multiple ways to experience each game.

A centerpiece of ESPN’s MegaCast strategy once again is Field Pass with The Pat McAfee Show, which returns for a fourth consecutive season. McAfee will provide his signature free-flowing, conversational style while roaming the sidelines for two quarterfinals. On New Year’s Eve, Field Pass will cover the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic between No. 10 Miami and No. 2 Ohio State on ESPN2. The following day, McAfee and crew will shift to Pasadena for the Rose Bowl Game Presented by Prudential, featuring top-seeded Indiana against No. 9 Alabama.

McAfee will be joined by his regular show contributors. They include AJ Hawk, Darius Butler, Connor Campbell, Ty Schmit, and Tone Digs. A rotating group of ESPN analysts, personalities, and celebrity guests will also appear. They will participate throughout both games.

The Cotton Bowl will also feature a second Field Pass presentation, as ACC Network offers Field Pass with ACC Huddle. Taylor Tannebaum, Eric Mac Lain, Eddie Royal, Dave Clawson and Georgia Tech head coach Brent Key will provide commentary live from the sidelines at AT&T Stadium.

Beyond Field Pass, ESPN will offer several alternate viewing experiences through the ESPN App. These include SkyCast, which delivers an overhead angle from the SkyCam. They also include Command Center, a multi-screen presentation with multiple camera angles and real-time statistics. The Rose Bowl quarterfinal will also be available in 4K.

ESPN’s main telecast teams will rotate across the four games. Chris Fowler, Kirk Herbstreit, Holly Rowe, and Kris Budden will call the Rose Bowl. Dave Pasch, Dusty Dvoracek, Taylor McGregor, and Quint Kessenich will handle the Cotton Bowl. Joe Tessitore’s crew will work the Orange Bowl. Sean McDonough’s team will close the quarterfinal round at the Sugar Bowl.

Radio coverage will be carried nationally on more than 400 ESPN Radio affiliates and digital platforms, with team-specific hometown audio options available on select MegaCast presentations. Spanish-language broadcasts for all four games will air on ESPN Deportes and the ESPN App.

Studio programming will also be extensive. College GameDay Built by The Home Depot will originate from Pasadena on New Year’s Day. SEC Network and ACC Network will provide on-site coverage throughout the quarterfinal round. That coverage will include pregame, halftime, and postgame shows.

With its MegaCast offerings continuing to expand, ESPN is once again positioning the CFP as a fully customizable viewing experience — one designed to meet fans wherever and however they choose to watch.

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.

Joe Rogan: President Donald Trump’s Comments About Rob Reiner Death “Not Funny”

BNM Staff
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Joe Rogan: President Donald Trump’s Comments About Rob Reiner Death “Not Funny”

Podcaster Joe Rogan criticized former President Donald Trump for comments he made following the death of Hollywood director Rob Reiner. During a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan said Trump’s remarks demonstrated a lack of empathy.

“The Rob Reiner thing is not funny, right? That’s like the same thing. It’s the same kind of thinking. And when you see it with no empathy, that’s when it’s hard to like [him],” Rogan said.

Comedian Shane Gillis, Rogan’s guest on the episode, added, “I wish he could apologize. I know he can’t and he won’t.”

Their remarks echo criticism from political figures and media personalities following Trump’s post, which came shortly after news of Reiner and his wife Michele Singer Reiner’s deaths. Their son, Nick Reiner, was later arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder.

Moments after Reiner’s passing was reported, Trump posted that the director had died “due to the anger he caused others through his massive, unyielding, and incurable affliction with a mind-crippling disease known as TRUMP DERANGEMENT SYNDROME.”

Reiner, a longtime Democratic donor, was a vocal opponent of Trump. In a September interview with MSNBC’s MS NOW, he warned, “Make no mistake. We have a year before this country becomes a full-on autocracy and democracy completely leaves us.”

Despite Reiner’s outspoken criticism of Trump, Rogan said the former president’s remarks were uncalled for. “It’s no different than people that were celebrating when Charlie Kirk got shot. It’s same kind of thing,” he said.

Rogan also compared the reaction to what might have happened if former President Barack Obama had made similar comments. “That would be crazy,” he said. “It just shows you how crazy it is the way Trump thinks and talks.”

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.

David Samson on Charles Barkley’s NFL Critique Over Christmas Games: “You Don’t Do That”

BSM Staff
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David Samson on Charles Barkley’s NFL Critique Over Christmas Games: “You Don’t Do That”

David Samson, host of Nothing Personal with David Samson, delivered a pointed response to Inside the NBA host Charles Barkley’s recent critique of the NFL’s Christmas Day schedule. Samson framed Barkley’s comments as outdated and misaligned with the realities of today’s sports landscape.

“Charles Barkley doesn’t like staying quiet,” Samson said, reflecting on Barkley’s claim that the NFL has become greedy by adding Christmas games. “We used to have this day to ourselves, but Roger Goodell and them pigs at the NFL always want to hog every day of the week. Now, Christmas is an NBA day. Charles, welcome to 2025.”

Samson, a former MLB executive, noted that the culture of sports and demand for content with massive viewership is too much for the NFL to pass up. He offered guidance for Barkley on addressing the facts when discussing the NFL’s hold on the American public.

“As you [Barkley] head into 2026, please try to remember the one sentence that all of us in sports need to say over and over like it’s our mantra: the NFL is king. There’s not a damn thing we can do about it,” he said.

Samson argued that the NFL’s dominance is undeniable, in part because of fan behavior. He pointed to the risks players take on the field and the enduring audience appetite for football, even in the face of serious injuries.

“It doesn’t matter if players lose limbs, or almost lose their lives, or suffer concussions that affect them in their 40s and 50s. It doesn’t matter if there are more carts on the field… The NFL, Roger Goodell, they don’t care — and neither do we,” Samson said. “We keep watching, and watch our gladiators because that’s what the human race does. We root for it.”

Barkley’s critical comments came during the opening moments of ESPN’s NBA coverage on Christmas Day.
He took a pointed shot at the NFL and commissioner Roger Goodell. His critique focused on the NFL encroaching on what has long been one of the NBA’s signature days. The Hall of Famer criticized the league’s decision to schedule regular-season games on Christmas. For decades, the holiday has been closely associated with the NBA.

“The NFL got greedy and started adding Christmas games,” Barkley said on the broadcast. “We used to have this day to ourselves. But Roger Goodell and them pigs at the NFL always want to hog every day of the week now. Christmas is an NBA day.”

Beyond critiquing Barkley’s comments, Samson explored the media dynamics at play. He suggested that Barkley’s willingness to challenge the NFL publicly could create friction with league decision-makers.

“Charles Barkley did something I like to call pissing against the wind. There’s a very good lesson that little boys learn: you don’t do that,” Samson said.

He added that Barkley’s high-profile work with Warner Bros. Discovery, TNT Sports and ESPN requires careful navigation, given the NFL’s control over broadcast rights and platform options.

“You just don’t want to make enemies with Roger Goodell, especially when he has about 20 different choices and platforms to put his games on. ESPN needs the NFL more than we need oxygen,” Samson said.

Samson’s comments underscore the NFL’s unassailable position in sports media. While Barkley framed the Christmas schedule as an encroachment on the NBA’s marquee holiday, Samson emphasized that the league’s cultural and commercial clout leaves little room for pushback — and that media personalities, even outspoken ones, must acknowledge its dominance.

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.

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