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Fox News Details Nationwide America 250 Programming

Garrett Searight
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Fox News Details Nationwide America 250 Programming

Fox News is launching an extensive multiplatform programming effort to mark America 250. Coverage begins June 24 and continues through July 5.

What We Know: Live broadcasts will originate from major locations, including Washington, D.C.’s National Mall, Philadelphia, Liberty State Park in New Jersey, Mount Rushmore, and the new Teddy Roosevelt Presidential Library in North Dakota. Several Fox News programs will travel on location for the festivities. FOX & Friends, America’s Newsroom, The Five, Special Report with Bret Baier, Hannity, and The Will Cain Show are among the programs slated for special broadcasts. Additionally, the network will air a July 4 primetime special, America 250: Celebrating Freedom, featuring Bret Baier, Harris Faulkner, Sean Hannity, Brian Kilmeade, and Dana Perino.

What’s at Stake: The effort represents one of the largest coordinated programming initiatives in Fox News Media history. Beyond television, the company is deploying digital, streaming, podcast, weather, and radio assets to capture audience attention during a historic national milestone. FOX Nation will offer exclusive programming and promotional pricing, while Fox News Audio will launch a dedicated America 250 SiriusXM channel and continue Bill Hemmer’s 250 Most Impactful Moments in American History podcast series.

What Remains Unclear: Fox News hasn’t disclosed how much original programming related to the America 250 celebration will continue beyond the July 4 holiday period.

What It Means: The project underscores Fox News Media’s strategy of leveraging every platform under its umbrella during major national events. At the same time, the initiative gives the company a unique opportunity to showcase its personalities across television, radio, streaming, podcasts, and digital outlets. As America 250 celebrations unfold nationwide, Fox News appears positioned to make itself a central destination for coverage of the historic anniversary.

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.

Audacy Elevates Complex To Brand Manager Of Live 101.5 Phoenix

David Hill
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Audacy Elevates Complex To Brand Manager Of Live 101.5 Phoenix

Audacy has a new Brand Manager in Phoenix. Ben “Complex” Romero now leads Live 101.5.

What We Know: Audacy elevated Complex to Brand Manager of Live 101.5 (KALV-FM) in Phoenix on June 16. He’ll oversee the station’s content strategy, talent, operations, and branding. Meanwhile, Complex will continue serving as Brand Manager for 106.5 The End (KUDL-FM) and 102.5 KSFM (KSFM-FM) in Sacramento. As a result, he now manages stations across two major markets.

What They Said: Molly Cruz, Top 40 Format Vice President, shared her excitement about the move. “Complex knows Phoenix inside and out, both behind the scenes and live on the air,” she said. “That unique perspective, combined with his passion for the listener experience, is exactly what will propel Live to new levels.” Likewise, Complex echoed that sentiment, calling Phoenix “a full-circle moment” in his career.

What Remains Unclear: The release doesn’t detail who previously held the Brand Manager role at Live 101.5. Similarly, it’s unclear how Complex will balance leadership across three stations in two states. Furthermore, Audacy hasn’t outlined whether additional staffing changes will accompany this move. For now, those details remain unannounced.

What It Means: This promotion reflects Audacy’s confidence in proven, market-tested talent. Complex’s deep Phoenix roots, paired with his Sacramento success, make him a logical fit. Consequently, Live 101.5 gains a leader who understands both programming and audience connection. Ultimately, this move signals Audacy’s continued investment in experienced, multi-market programmers.

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.

Salem Media Names Linnae Young as President of Broadcast Media

Garrett Searight
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Salem Media Names Linnae Young as President of Broadcast Media

One day after announcing that Allen Power would retire, Salem Media has found his successor.

What We Know: The company has announced that Linnae Young will succeed Power as the President of Broadcast Media. She has spent more than 30 years with the organization. She currently serves as the Chief Revenue Officer for Salem Media. She’ll continue in that role after her appointment to the President of Broadcast Media role. Allen Power will step down from the position on Wednesday, September 30th. Additionally, Jeff Reisman will be promoted to Executive Vice President of Operations on Thursday, October 1st.

What They Said: “Linnae has earned the respect of people across this company and throughout our industry. She knows our business inside and out and has been a driving force behind Salem’s success for more than three decades. Her leadership has made a lasting impact across Salem, and I’m excited to see her take on this expanded role.” -Salem Media CEO David Santrella

“It is an honor to step into this role at such an exciting time for Salem. Salem is growing in exciting ways. From Salem Creators Agency to Salem Political Solutions, we’re finding new ways to serve audiences and partners. I’m excited to help build what’s next, and to continue to help develop future leaders.” -Linnae Young

What’s at Stake: Linnae Young obviously has strong knowledge of Salem’s operations from her current role and decades of experience. She’ll be a strong asset in the position. It’s also another elevation for Reisman, who has worked in a variety of sales and leadership roles for Salem for the past 22 years.

What It Means: The proof is in the pudding. Salem Media often promotes from within, and it’s on display here. Two longtime company veterans are receiving promotions into key positions for the organization. Despite the changes, Salem likely remains on strong footing due to the institutional knowledge retained with these moves.

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.

CBC Ending NHL Broadcasts On Network After Nearly 75 Years

John Mamola
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CBC Ending NHL Broadcasts On Network After Nearly 75 Years

Hockey Night in Canada is departing CBC after nearly 75 years. Sportsnet will now carry all NHL Saturday broadcasts going forward under a new 12-year, $7.7 billion rights deal.

What We Know: CBC first aired Hockey Night in Canada in 1952. The public broadcaster held exclusive Saturday night rights through the 2013-14 season. After that, a sub-licensing agreement with Rogers Communications kept NHL games on CBC. That arrangement expired at the end of the recent Stanley Cup playoffs and was not renewed. In its place, CBC will launch a new Saturday night prime time show on CBC and streaming on CBC Gem. Moreover, this programming features Canadian athletes competing at home and at the biggest events around the world.

What They Said: Doug Smith, executive vice-president, CBC: “As the proud home of Team Canada, we’re already investing in the L.A. Games in 2028 and setting a course for the French Alps in 2030. At the same time, our commitment doesn’t pause following the closing ceremony; we will be there between the Games – in every community, every arena, every early morning practice and every late night training session.”

Joint Statement From CBC, Sportsnet: “After a successful 12-year partnership, Sportsnet and CBC today announced the public broadcaster will no longer carry NHL broadcasts after the current season as it moves forward with a new sports programming strategy following the unprecedented success of the Milano/Cortina Olympic Games. Watching hockey on Saturday night is a time-honoured tradition for Canadians. Sportsnet is privileged to continue delivering that tradition. This has been a terrific partnership, and both parties look forward to continued opportunities to collaborate in the future.”

What Remains Unclear: Any financial terms of the separation is unknown. It is also unclear whether CBC will pursue any other live sports rights outside of hockey to fill the void.

What It Means: This marks a significant shift in Canadian sports media. For decades, CBC’s Saturday night hockey was a cultural institution. However, Sportsnet now holds exclusive control under Rogers’ landmark $7.7 billion deal. Moreover, Canadian fans will need a cable or streaming subscription to watch, as free over-air access ends.

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 Extends Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist Don Van Natta Jr.

John Mamola
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ESPN Extends Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist Don Van Natta Jr.

ESPN has re-signed Don Van Natta Jr. to a new multi-year deal. The Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter will continue leading high-impact investigative work for the network.

What We Know: Van Natta has been a senior writer at ESPN since 2012, operating within its Investigative, Enterprise and Digital Journalism Unit. Before ESPN, he spent 16 years at The New York Times, contributing to two Pulitzer Prize-winning teams. Earlier, he helped the Miami Herald earn the 1993 Pulitzer Prize for Public Service covering Hurricane Andrew. His recent ESPN work includes exclusive reporting that led to NFLPA leader Lloyd Howell’s resignation.

What They Said: Chris Buckle, ESPN Vice President, Investigative, Enterprise and Digital Journalism: “Don brings experience, expertise and unmatched persistence to his work every day, and we’re thrilled that he will be contributing to our journalism for years to come.”

What Remains Unclear: ESPN hasn’t disclosed the financial terms of the new contract. Additionally, it’s unknown whether Van Natta’s role will expand beyond his current investigative focus.

What It Means: This signing signals ESPN’s continued commitment to premium accountability journalism. Notably, the network also added six former Washington Post reporters this year. Together, these moves suggest ESPN is aggressively building a newsroom capable of continuing to compete with traditional media outlets. Investigative reporting is clearly a strategic priority, not an afterthought for ESPN.

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.

VSiN Launches 24/7 Fast Channel Via OrkaTV

John Mamola
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VSiN Launches 24/7 Fast Channel Via OrkaTV

VSiN, The Sports Betting Network, has launched Best Bets TV, a new 24/7 FAST channel. The channel delivers free, ad-supported sports betting content to a broader streaming audience.

What We Know: Best Bets TV is currently streaming exclusively on OrkaTV. Which is available on Roku, Fire TV, Google Play, Android OS, and tv.orka.tv, with Smart TV platforms coming soon. Select content also airs on Anthem’s Game+, Marquee Sports Network, Hulu+ Live TV, FuboTV, and DIRECTV. In addtion, the channel pulls from VSiN’s existing library of podcasts, live shows, and original analysis. It generates more than 150 new video clips daily through AI clipping via TVU Networks and manual clipping.

What They Said: Miles Gwyn, chief operating officer at VSiN: “VSiN continues to grow its distribution footprint across every major platform to reach more sports fans in more ways with its award-winning sports betting content. With the launch of Best Bets TV, we have an incredible opportunity to introduce VSiN content to millions of new viewers. All while leveraging some of the content we’re already creating. We expect to continue this rapid expansion to make sports betting information accessible to every fan. By providing the credible insights, expert commentary, and entertainment that make VSiN the leading voice in sports betting.”

Mike Woods, Founder and CEO of OrkaTV: “VSiN programming for Best Bets TV is a unique offering in FAST, with specially curated clips and three hours of live programming each weekday. As viewers increasingly turn to streaming for live television, Best Bets TV represents the kind of dynamic content that we’re focused on bringing to the OrkaTV platform. In partnership with VSiN, we’re creating a compelling destination for sports fans who want insight, analysis, and live coverage throughout the day.”

What Remains Unclear: VSiN has not announced a broader FAST platform rollout beyond OrkaTV’s current distribution. It’s also unclear when Best Bets TV will expand to additional Smart TV platforms or streaming services.

What It Means: VSiN is making a direct push to capture cord-cutters and casual sports fans. Free streaming is increasingly where audiences are discovered — and monetized. By combining AI-powered clipping, live programming, and deep distribution partnerships, VSiN is building an infrastructure for scale.

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.

Approaching The Summit: Buzz Knight, Buzz Knight Media Production

David Hill
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Approaching The Summit: Buzz Knight, Buzz Knight Media Production

Approaching The Summit is a series of special interviews created in partnership with Point to Point Marketing featuring speakers at the upcoming 2026 Barrett Media Audio Summit in New York City. Follow along with this series as prominent names surrounding the event June 30-July 2 share their insights and expectations for what’s to come in the Big Apple. The Summit takes place at the SVA Theatre on West 23rd Street. For tickets and hotel room reservations, click here or visit the Summit section at the top of the website.

Buzz Knight is the Founder of Buzz Knight Media Productions, a podcast company that creates some of the most popular music podcasts in the United States. A former media executive for national radio companies, Knight now leads a growing roster of shows including Takin’ A Walk, Music Saved Me, Comedy Saved Me, and Takin’ A Walk Nashville, all part of the iHeart Podcast Network. His company also has multiple new shows in development.

*Editor’s Note: Answers have been edited for clarity and length.*

David Hill: Why is it important for those in the radio industry to attend events like the Barrett Media Audio Summit and commit to continuous learning?

Buzz Knight: If we don’t push ourselves for continuous improvement and non-stop learning, we become victims of industry atrophy. This event is a reminder that standing still is not an option.

DH: What is the value of connecting with peers, friends, and even competitors at gatherings like this?

BK: It is the lifeblood of learning. Connection is key, and feeding off of the energy of an event like this is a one-of-a-kind experience.

DH: What is the biggest challenge facing your format right now?

BK: Some companies are losing sight of the importance of talent growth and nurturing their bench. That is a major mistake, and it needs to be addressed before it becomes irreversible.

DH: What is your favorite memory from past shows or conferences?

BK: The networking experiences stand out most. The ones that are part of our shared history and the new connections formed along the way. Those moments are what you carry with you long after the event ends.

DH: Which speaker, panel, or conversation are you most looking forward to at this year’s Summit?

BK: I am greatly looking forward to the panel I am moderating with industry innovators Lee Abrams, Fred Jacobs, and Mike McVay. The talent-oriented panels are also high on my list. And I am looking forward to spending time with Greg Beharrell, who has quietly emerged as one of the great talents in our business.

DH: How do you view the state of the industry right now, and where do you see it headed?

BK: Risk taking and innovation are a lost art. That is something the industry needs to confront honestly. I won’t spend time on commercial loads because that conversation continues to fall on deaf ears.

DH: What would you tell a younger person in the business who is still trying to find their place?

BK: Keep experimenting. Master the art of multi-platform, which of course includes podcasting. It is something I am greatly invested in, and I believe it is where the next generation of audio talent will make their mark.

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.

KNX News Sees Slight Ratings Dip in Final Book on FM Dial

Garrett Searight
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KNX News Sees Slight Ratings Dip in Final Book on FM Dial

The May Nielsen radio ratings are out, and we now have a look at the final month of KNX News on the FM dial.

What We Know: KNX News departed the FM dial on Monday, May 18th. The May ratings period ended on May 27th. It was replaced by the new sports brand 97.1 The Fan. KNX News continues to air on the 1070 AM signal in the Los Angeles market. During the month, KNX News saw its rating fall below a 4-share.

What the Numbers Show:

StationDec 25Jan 26Feb 26Mar 26Apr 26May 26
KNX News 97.14.14.34.54.14.13.5

What Remains Unclear: How much the impact of leaving the FM dial factored into the ratings decline. It is also unclear how the changes happening within the ratings period affected the final figure. During the nine days that 97.1 The Fan was on the air during the window, it earned a 0.1 share.

What It Means: KNX News averaged a cume of 819,800 during the May ratings period. In its early days, 97.1 The Fan averaged 109,400. The ratings decrease for KNX News wasn’t completely unexpected. One could have expected at least a small drop after spending weeks sharing with listeners that large-scale changes were on the horizon.

A line graph showing the ratings data for KNX News before it left the FM dial on May 18th.

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.

Shane Tarleton Named Co-Head of Leo33 Alongside Katie Dean

David Hill
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Shane Tarleton Named Co-Head of Leo33 Alongside Katie Dean

Shane Tarleton has a new title. Leo33 just named him Co-Head, alongside Katie Dean.

What We Know: Leo33 has named Tarleton Co-Head, pairing him with Katie Dean. He joined Morris Higham as Head of Marketing in 2024. Before that, he spent 13 years at WMN as EVP/Artist Development. He left WMN in 2023

What They Said
Dean praised her new partner’s experience. “As we continue building our roster and expanding the company’s reach, [Shane’s] strategic perspective and proven track record make him the ideal partner to help lead our next phase of growth,” she says. Tarleton echoed her enthusiasm. “I’m thrilled to join the team and help shape the next chapter of growth for both the company and the incredible roster we have the privilege to serve,” he adds.

What Remains Unclear
It’s unclear how Tarleton and Dean will divide responsibilities. Additionally, Morris Higham hasn’t announced a replacement for his marketing post. Whether more executive moves follow at Leo33 also remains unknown. Still, additional details could emerge in the coming weeks.

What It Means
For Tarleton, this marks a return to artist development at a leadership level. Similarly, Leo33 gains an executive with deep industry relationships. As a result, the company strengthens its position to grow its roster. Ultimately, this move reflects ongoing shuffling among management firms.

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.

Survey: NBA Podcasts Hosted By 94% Men, Top Ten Shows Making Up Over A Fifth Of Total Reach

John Mamola
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Survey: NBA Podcasts Hosted By 94% Men, Top Ten Shows Making Up Over A Fifth Of Total Reach

According to a new study, men dominate NBA podcasting, hosting 94% of all shows. Yet the listeners tuning in are far more diverse than the voices they hear.

What We Know: A new Million Podcasts Research study examined 2,200-plus active English-language NBA podcasts in 2026. Moreover, the findings reveal a top-heavy ecosystem where just ten shows capture roughly 23% of all listener attention. Network-backed podcasts reach seven times more listeners than independent shows at the median. Notably, podcast consumption surged during the 2026 NBA playoffs, amplifying the reach gap between networked and independent shows even further.

What The Data Shows: (via Million Podcasts Research Findings)

Top Ten Most-Listened To NBA Podcasts In The Active Universe

ShowModeled Monthly Listeners (Per Million Podcasts)
The Bill Simmons Podcast352,000
The Stream Room117,000
The Mismatch104,000
Mostly Hoops w/ Mark Titus84,000
Brian Windhorst & Hoop Collective78,000
Rights To Ricky Sanchez72,000
The Old Man and the Three68,000
Inside the Green Room w/ Danny Green65,000
Open Floor: SI’s NBA Show56,000
Buckets with Amir Blumenfeld55,000

Share Of Total Podcast Reach By Tier (By Rank)

RankPercentage
Top 10 Overall (See Above)23%
Top 5%59%
Top 1%32%
Bottom 50%2%

What Remains Unclear: With the rise in NBA podcast consumption, does that lead to more players in the vertical. Also, the data does not share if it’s video and audio consumption or just audio consumption.

What It Means: It comes at no surprise that NBA podcasts are dominantly hosted by men. But it was striking to see the small amount of shows on YouTube. In addition, that suggests that YouTube represents the biggest untapped opportunity in NBA audio. Fewer than one in ten active podcasts maintain a YouTube channel, yet those that do reach nine times more listeners than audio-only peers.

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.

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