Home Blog Page 354

Connoisseur Media Announces Promotions, Appointments at 101 KXL, 101.9 KINK, Live 95.5, and 98.7 The Bull

BNM Staff
-
0
Connoisseur Media Announces Promotions, Appointments at 101 KXL, 101.9 KINK, Live 95.5, and 98.7 The Bull

Connoisseur Media has announced a series of appointments and promotions for its brands in Portland.

At 101 KXL, the company has named Grant McHill as the new Program Director. He’s served as the station’s News Director for the past decade.

“As someone who has worked at KXL for a decade, I appreciate and understand the station’s importance to the community and its potential for growth in Portland and beyond,” McHill said. “I am thrilled, honored, and thankful for this opportunity. A huge thank you to Jeff Warshaw, Keith Dakin, Mark Handwerger, and Ross MacLeod for their confidence in me.”

Elsewhere, Kendall Stewart has been named as the Assistant Program Director of 101.9 KINK and Live 95.5. Stewart will also helm middays on Live 95.5, after most recently serving in a similar capacity at The Current in the Twin Cities.

“I’m beyond thrilled to join the Connoisseur Media family and be part of the creative energy behind KINK and Live 95.5!” Stewart said. “I can’t wait to dive in and be part of the radio magic happening every day at these amazing stations. Portland, let’s go!”

Jamie Tanchyk is also expanding responsibilities at 98.7 The Bull. He’ll now serve as Music Director for the station, in addition to hosting middays.

Furthermore, Connoisseur Media Portland Operations Manager Ross MacLeod will take over the role of Program Director of 101.9 KINK.

“These moves today will ensure our Portland stations are stronger than ever,” MacLeod said. “I’m excited to be part of these teams.”

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.

Audacy Elevates Chase Daniels to Vice President of Programming in Cleveland

BNM Staff
-
0
Audacy Elevates Chase Daniels to Vice President of Programming in Cleveland

Audacy has announced the elevation of Chase Daniels to the role of Vice President of Programming for the Cleveland cluster.

Daniels has been with the cluster since 2023, originally joining as Operations Manager.

In his role, he oversees 92.3 The Fan (sports), 98.5 WNCX (classic rock), Star 102.1 (AC), and Q104 (Hot AC), while serving as the Brand Manager for the latter two stations.

“Since arriving in Cleveland almost 3 years ago, Chase has concentrated on our brands, our execution, and our team with hopes of building on the great foundation that was already in place,” said Audacy Cleveland Senior Vice President and Market Manager Jeff Miller.

“His relentless focus on being the best, along with consistent coaching and leadership, has led to significant growth for individuals and our four stations,” Miller concluded.

Daniels originally joined Audacy in 2013 in the Indianapolis market. He later worked in Madison before joining Cleveland in March 2023. He has also worked in Atlanta and Jacksonville, among other stops.

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.

President Donald Trump Calls ABC News ‘Crappy Company’ and For Licenses to Be Revoked After Epstein Files Question

BNM Staff
-
1
President Donald Trump Calls ABC News ‘Crappy Company’ and For Licenses to Be Revoked After Epstein Files Question

A question from an ABC News reporter led President Donald Trump to lambast the organization over questions about the Epstein Files.

On Tuesday, ABC News’ Chief White House Correspondent Mary Bruce began her line of questioning to the President about his involvement with his family’s business in relation to Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman before turning her attention to the Epstein Files.

In response, Trump called Bruce “horrible”, “insubordinate”, and “a terrible person and a terrible reporter” for asking questions related to the Epstein Files, as well as asking bin Salman about the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

“The people are wise to your hoax,” Trump said. “And ABC, your crappy company, is one of the perpetrators. I’ll tell you something: I think the license should be taken away from ABC. Because your news is so fake and it’s so wrong.”

Trump then argued that he believes FCC Chairman Brendan Carr should investigate the organization.

“We have a great Commissioner, the chairman, who should look at that,” Trump said. “Because I think when you come in and when you’re 97% negative to Trump, and then Trump wins the election in a landslide, that means — obviously — your news is not credible. And you’re not credible as a reporter.”

The comments from Trump drew a quick rebuke from Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA), who called the comments from President Donald Trump “thin-skinned”, “weak”, “un-American”, and “authoritarian.”

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.

Stephen A. Smith Denies Reports of “Removal” From NBA Countdown on ESPN

BSM Staff
-
0
Stephen A. Smith Denies Reports of “Removal” From NBA Countdown on ESPN

Stephen A. Smith is pushing back on reports that claim he was removed from ESPN’s NBA Countdown, insisting the move was negotiated long before this week’s headlines surfaced. Speaking on his SiriusXM program Straight Shooter with Stephen A. Smith, the longtime ESPN personality said the narrative suggesting he was “fired” is flatly inaccurate.

Smith explained that the shift away from a full-time role on NBA Countdown was settled during his most recent contract negotiation with ESPN, a process that stretched from last June until early spring.

“I had a contract negotiation last year that started in June and ended in March, going into April,” Smith said. “It was decided at that particular moment in time that I wouldn’t be doing NBA Countdown anymore, because I didn’t want to.”

However, Smith stressed that his decision wasn’t about dissatisfaction with the network or the show. Instead, he cited the workload and the late-night studio schedule as reasons he stepped back. He noted that balancing First Take, his podcast, outside media projects, and other business endeavors made the nightly Countdown grind increasingly difficult.

“I love doing the show. But after the show is over, I got a whole bunch of other stuff that I want to do. I didn’t want to be stuck in studio until midnight,” Smith said. “No shade against ESPN, no shade against my wonderful colleagues… But in case you haven’t noticed, I got other things on my plate.”

Even so, Smith said he remains willing to contribute to NBA Countdown as needed. He emphasized that his relationship with ESPN remains strong and that he is open to appearing on the program throughout the season.

“I’m always available,” he said. “Because once you’re working for ESPN, they’re part of the family. You’re a part of family. If they need me for anything, of course, I’ll show back up on NBA Countdown. They need me a few dates a year. Sure.”

As the headlines spread, Smith appeared frustrated that the story was framed as a sudden removal or a sign of conflict between him and the network. He reiterated that his reduced role was fully expected, fully negotiated, and not the result of any internal dispute.

“It was always my intent to come off,” Smith said. “It’s something I negotiated. Just so we’re clear, this story is a non-story. This is not some epiphany that everybody is getting attached to that, ‘Oh, my God, this just happened, and he’s been yanked off the shelf.’ No, that didn’t happen like that.”

Smith added that he will continue to appear when called upon. But when he is not needed, he’ll remain focused on expanding his platform outside the ESPN studio.

“I’m available when needed,” he said. “And when I’m not needed, I got other stuff to do on my own. That’s how that works.”

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.

Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy: I’m Shocked FCC Chair Brendan Carr Would Want to Give TV Owners More Power and Control

BNM Staff
-
2
Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy: I’m Shocked FCC Chair Brendan Carr Would Want to Give TV Owners More Power and Control

As Sinclair makes a bid to overtake E.W. Scirpps and TEGNA and Nexstar Media Group hope to merge, Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy has been vehement in his opposition.

Some have questioned how likely the moves are to receive government approval. However, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has started a procedure to review ownership limits instituted by the Reagan administration in the 1980s.

Currently, ownership groups are limited to owning stations that reach 39% of the total U.S. TV marketplace. However, Nexstar Media Group is already above that cap and looking to increase.

Carr has argued that a potential revocation of the ownership limits would help broadcasters compete against Big Tech. Ruddy disagrees.

“The answer to Big Tech consolidation is not to give left-wing TV broadcasters massive consolidation and power too,” Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy said. “We don’t need anti-Trump media controlling everything.”

He added that, due to what he shared as a perception of bias against President Donald Trump, he was floored that Brendan Carr would be so open to a move that could give them a monopoly of the airwaves.

“It shocks me President Trump’s FCC chairman has made his main priority giving the TV broadcasters more power and control, especially over local news,” Ruddy said.

Ruddy’s comments come after conservative legal scholar Brian T. Fitzpatrick argued on the network that the FCC has “no lawful authority” to alter the nation’s television ownership limits.

“Agencies are subordinate to Congress, not the other way around,” Fitzpatrick wrote in an opinion filed to the FCC earlier this week.

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.

97.1 The Drive Adds Tim Virgin to Afternoon Drive

BMM Staff
-
0
97.1 The Drive Adds Tim Virgin to Afternoon Drive

Tim Virgin couldn’t stay away from Chicago radio for long. Now, he’s back in the Windy City at 97.1 The Drive.

Earlier this year, Virgin departed WLS-FM in Chicago to rejoin KSHE 95 in St. Louis. He hosts from 2-6 PM at the Hubbard Radio St. Louis rock station.

Now, he’ll assume afternoon drive duties at both KSHE 95 and 97.1 The Drive.

“A few months away was long enough to remind me exactly where I belong–on a legendary station in the city I love, talking about the music that raised me — ROCK!” said Virgin. “Huge thanks to Keith Hastings, Keith Lawless, and Greg Strassell for bringing me on board. CHICAGO …Let’s get loud!”

“Tim is a multi-talented personality who will bring tremendous value to Driver Nation, our advertisers, and the community,” added 97.1 The Drive Brand and Content Director Keith Hastings.

With his move to afternoon drive in Chicago, 97.1 The Drive’s Janda Lane will shift to middays. She’ll also continue to host her Behind The Song podcast.

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.

Grant Stinchfield Exits Morning Drive on AM 870 The Answer

BNM Staff
-
0
Grant Stinchfield Exits Morning Drive on AM 870 The Answer

After more than four years in morning drive at AM 870 The Answer in Los Angeles, Grant Stinchfield has departed the station.

Stinchfield had hosted The Morning Answer alongside Jennifer Horn in the 6-9 AM window for the Salem Media Group news/talk station. She remains in the daypart.

He originally joined the station in May 2021. In addition to working on AM 870 The Answer, the show featuring Grant Stinchfield and Jennifer Horn was also heard on AM 590 The Answer in San Bernardino. He also hosted a podcast for the Salem Podcast Network during his tenure with the company.

Stinchfield worked as a reporter and anchor for NBC News before helming The Stinchfield Report on 570 KLIF in Dallas from 2012 to 2018. He later spent time hosting a primetime program for Newsmax before joining the Salem Media Group news/talk station.

“I am so grateful for the past four years at Salem Media and AM 870,” Stinchfield told Barrett Media. “Salem has been great, but we just couldn’t agree on terms for a new contract. With the Real America’s Voice show and a fast-growing podcast, something had to give.

“This departure will allow me to better focus on my own brand, in a world of expanding ‘new media,'” Stinchfield added. “Most of all, I will miss the greatest co-host of all time, Jennifer Horn.” 

His show for Real America’s Voice airs live at 7 PM ET each weeknight.

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.

LPGA Announces Partnership With FM With Every Event Airing Live Nationwide

BSM Staff
-
0
LPGA Announces Partnership With FM With Every Event Airing Live Nationwide

The LPGA is preparing to enter what it calls a new era of television coverage, announcing a multi-year partnership with commercial property insurer FM designed to transform the broadcast presentation of the Tour’s North American events beginning in 2026.

The collaboration, which includes expanded commitments from Golf Channel and Trackman, is positioned as one of the most significant production investments in LPGA history. The Tour says the upgrades will reshape how fans watch women’s golf, bringing major-championship-level elements to weekly events.

“We are proud to take our partnership with the LPGA to an even higher level. By supporting the transformation of the LPGA Tour’s broadcast, athlete and fan experience for the 2026 season and beyond,” said FM chairman and CEO Malcolm Roberts. He pointed to FM’s innovation efforts, including FM Intellium, as a natural extension of the company’s investment in state-of-the-art technology and equipment. “We are excited to significantly expand our support for women’s golf, driving progress further than ever before.”

As part of the deal, FM becomes an Official Partner of the LPGA. The company already titles the FM Championship, which debuted in 2024 with a $4.1 million purse. The largest on the LPGA schedule outside of majors and the season-ending championship.

LPGA Commissioner Craig Kessler called the commitments from FM, Trackman and Golf Channel “a game-changer,” noting the expected improvements in production quality and storytelling.

“Starting in 2026, fans will immediately see and feel the difference: more cameras, better technology, richer storytelling and more ways to appreciate the unbelievable skill of our players, fully live,” Kessler said. “This is a major step forward for the women’s game, and it’s only the beginning.”

For the first time since Golf Channel began televising the LPGA in 1995. Every LPGA Tour event and every round will air live nationwide. Select weekend coverage will also run live on CNBC.

Tom Knapp, EVP and general manager of Golf Channel, said the expanded live windows are a direct result of both networks operating under the VERSANT portfolio. “We’ve worked together with the LPGA Tour and our partners at FM and Trackman to enhance our production, adding more technology to our telecasts as we continue to be the proud home of the LPGA Tour,” Knapp said.

The 2026 season will feature a 50% increase in cameras compared to 2025. Also tripled microphone counts, slow-motion systems, drone coverage, and enhanced athlete-focused content such as walk-and-talk interviews. FM’s investment also enables a major expansion in shot-tracing, quadrupling capabilities through new Trackman-supported camera positions.

Trackman co-founder and CEO Klaus Eldrup-Jørgensen said the partnership will elevate both fan education and player resources. Trackman will also become the LPGA’s Official Golf Simulator and Official Launch Monitor.

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.

Haley Taylor Simon Out At 97.5 The Fanatic

BSM Staff
-
0
Haley Taylor Simon Out At 97.5 The Fanatic

Haley Taylor Simon has announced that she is no longer with Beasley Media Group’s 97.5 The Fanatic, ending a run of more than four years with the Philadelphia sports station.

In a message posted on social media, Simon said her departure was not expected but added that she leaves grateful for the opportunity to begin her career in sports radio at a station she grew up listening to.

“4.5 years ago I started my journey at 97.5 The Fanatic. Today was my final day,” wrote Simon. “I LOVE radio. That I will miss. Go birds and thank you all for supporting me live out my dream. It did come true. How lucky am I?? – Haley.”

Simon’s time at the Fanatic spread across multiple shows and dayparts. She became a familiar presence on the station’s morning show. She expressed appreciation for her on-air teammates and the program’s loyal listeners, noting that working in radio had been her dream coming out of college.

“While this was unexpected I was able to come out of college and work my dream job,” she wrote. “Not many people get to do that. I love my morning show fam… I’m always wishing nothing but the best for everyone who works there.”

Her exit adds another change to a station and lineup that has undergone several adjustments recently. The weekday lineup has seen Tyrone Johnson and Mike Missanelli leave, while Bill Colarulo was elevated to afternoons and Jon Marks returned to the brand earlier this summer.

Though she did not share details about the circumstances leading to her departure, Simon’s emphasized there was no change in her enthusiasm for the medium and said she will miss the daily connection with listeners that radio uniquely provides.

At the same time, Simon reassured fans that she is not stepping away from sports media entirely.

“I’m always wishing nothing but the best for everyone who works there. I’m not going anywhere with my Flyers/ESPN+ jobs,” wrote Simon.

Morning show hosts Andrew Salciunas and Jon Kincade addressed Simon’s exit on Tuesday’s program.

“Haley Taylor Simon is no longer with us,” said Salciunas. “What people don’t know is that really hurt us behind the scenes. We were very upset with the decision that was made… It freaking hurt yesterday. It’s just another one of those days with this industry that we love but also can’t stand “

Kincade added: “It wasn’t a good day. We love Haley, and we all got to talk to her yesterday. We walked out with her, and then we had a chance to catch up with her. I know you spoke to her on the phone, I spoke to her on the phone. We’re gonna miss her presence around here.”

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.

NPR Secures $36 Million From Corporation for Public Broadcasting After Claiming Contract Was Illegally Pulled

BNM Staff
-
0
NPR Secures $36 Million From Corporation for Public Broadcasting After Claiming Contract Was Illegally Pulled

NPR has revealed that the Corporation for Public Broadcasting will honor the $36 million, multi-year contract it had previously shared would not be fulfilled.

NPR had alleged that the funding was illegally pulled amid pressure from the Trump administration to slash funding to public broadcasting entities.

The Corporation for Public Broadcasting asserted that it had “prevailed” in the litigation. While the lawsuit brought forth by NPR against the CPB had concluded, the network is still challenging the merits of executive orders signed by President Donald Trump about the cut in funding. A hearing in that case is scheduled for December.

“The settlement is a victory for editorial independence and a step toward upholding the First Amendment rights of NPR and the public media system in our legal challenge to [Trump’s] Executive Order,” NPR President and CEO Katherine Maher said.

“While we entered into this dispute with CPB reluctantly, we’re glad to resolve it in a way that enables us to continue to provide for the stability of the Public Radio Satellite System, offer immediate and direct support to public radio stations across the country, and proceed with our strong and substantive claims against this illegal and unconstitutional Executive Order,” Maher concluded. “We look forward to our day in court in December.”

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.

1...353354355...2,640Page 354 of 2,640