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‘Wake Up Barstool’ Delivers Solid Sports Talk for a New Generation

John Molori
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‘Wake Up Barstool’ Delivers Solid Sports Talk for a New Generation

Wake Up Barstool is FS1’s latest attempt to capture the morning sports fan audience, and for this maiden voyage, they brought in a renowned captain—or should I say El Presidente. That man is Dave Portnoy, the fabled, famous, notorious, and notable El Presidente of the conglomerate that is Barstool Sports.

Barstool has become as synonymous with sports as ESPN or any other worldwide brand. It has overtaken the sports landscape with regular-guy commentary, down-to-earth sports talk, and hard-nosed, in-your-face opinions, products, and marketing.

To say that Portnoy is a sports marketing genius is not an exaggeration. He created a multi-pronged portfolio that has completely redefined success in the world of media, merchandising, and business. Whether you agree with his opinions and style or not. You have to admire what he has done with his brand. This cat has permeated the psyche of America. From pizza reviews to politics and now as a regular on FOX’s Big Noon Kickoff and his Wake Up Barstool show on FS1.

Barstool is a mindset that appeals to the dyed-in-the-wool, meat-and-potatoes, nitty-gritty sports fan psyche. And it works. Portnoy and crew have captured the imagination and consternation of an entire nation.

Wake Up Barstool is an extension of this theme, with headlines, guests, and a philosophy on morning sports that is unique. The Barstool brand is both spastic and iconoclastic, and Wake Up Barstool is no exception.

Staying True to the Barstool Sports Brand

T-Bob Hebert opened the September 30 edition of the show wearing his Cubs jersey and previewing the content of that day’s show. I liked this cold open and the ensuing video montage that captures the morning theme with clips of toast, bacon, orange juice, pancakes, and eggs.

This day’s edition was stacked with potential content, including a review of weekend and Monday Night Football (MNF) games and a preview of the first batch of MLB Wild Card games.

Joining Hebert were show regulars Nick Turani, Eddie Farrer, and Dan “Barstool Big Cat” Katz. The set of the program is vintage Barstool. Leather chairs, sports memorabilia on the walls, and a basic coffee table in front of four dudes talking sports. They are all dressed casually, which is what the Barstool ethos is all about—no frills, no glitz, just solid sports talk.

It is the foundation on which Portnoy has built his empire.

This particular program emanated from Chicago, with a tough and gruff Windy City mindset for sure. The quartet jumped right in, saying that the doubleheader Monday Night Football telecasts this past week, in their own words, “stunk.” Big Cat stated, “It locked you into two absolutely terrible football games.”

While the show commentary rolls on, a lower-third graphic encourages fans to jump into the conversation and send social media thoughts and comments to @wakeupbarstool. Like anything Barstool, this is a fans’ show—run by fans, produced by fans, hosted by fans, and directed toward fans.

The foursome blasted through commentary on the Dolphins versus Jets game. Going over performances and stats, and talking about the season-ending injury to Miami wide receiver Tyreek Hill.

The essence of Wake Up Barstool is getting into the mindset of what a lot of fans think. This past week, in fact, I was talking to a buddy and lamenting the fact that ABC/ESPN now feels obligated to air two Monday Night Football games. When the historic essence and allure of MNF is that it is the only game on the schedule that night. That’s what made the brand so special. Talking about this type of sports angst is what makes the Barstool brand so special today. Both of these brands broke the accepted mold of sports and took criticism.

Portnoy himself might just be the Howard Cosell of his generation, although on a greater multimedia scale. He may have as many detractors as he has fans, but you absolutely, positively are drawn to what he has to say and the programming that he and his crew create. Real sports talk is about breaking free from the mold and, in fact, establishing a whole new mold.

Wake Up Barstool is doing that in the morning sports world. Although the show has yet to draw huge ratings, it is totally worth your time and eyes.

Staying Fun With Positive Vibes Only

From the set, Hebert threw to “Junior Football Analyst” Steven Cheah. With the show emanating from Chicago, Cheah had me with his vintage powder-blue and white-pinstriped Cubs jersey a la Dave Kingman. Some of the best parts of Wake Up Barstool are when the guys get away from talking about games and just chat amongst themselves. Coming back from the first break, Farrer talked about his own recent sports journey as a Chicago sports fan. With the Bears beating the Raiders this past weekend and the Cubs in the playoffs versus San Diego.

The Wake Up Barstool set features a slogan that reads Positive Vibes Only. While the panelists definitely engage in critical sports talk, there is an overall positive vibe to the show. It’s just a cool way to ease into your sports day, hanging with four chaps who love the games as much as you do. Farrer is like that guy you strike up a conversation with at the airport bar while waiting for your flight.

The Chicago flair of this particular edition brought back happy memories of the Da Bears segment on Saturday Night Live and of the original The Sportswriters on TV program, which also had a Chicago feel.

Coming back from a break, Big Cat and Cheah presented their computer power rankings of NFL teams, headed by what they called the juggernauts of the Eagles, Bills, and Lions. Wake Up Barstool incorporates graphics and game footage into the program, and on this edition. They were also joined by FOX baseball analyst and former MLB catcher A.J. Pierzynski—a fitting Barstool guest known for his fiery and candid commentary. Pierzynski was also donning his old White Sox jersey, adding to the Chicago theme.

While the panel spent a lot of time talking about the Monday night NFL games to open the show, the Supreme Debate segment was just the opposite, as they ripped through a bevy of topics.

This was my favorite part of the show, especially the section that featured a graphic reading, “Kickers should be kept in soundproof, dark rooms with blindfolds.” It is in this segment that the trademark ribald humor of Barstool came to the forefront.

One of the debate topics was, “Who you got: Bruce Pearl versus Paul Finebaum for Alabama Senate?” The quartet also touched on Bad Bunny’s upcoming Super Bowl halftime show. Also which non-football athlete could play quarterback in the NFL. These are the types of things that sports fans talk about while hanging out in the backyard or on the porch, tipping back a couple. Such is the heart of Wake Up Barstool.

As the show wound down, the group hit on a little college football talk and showed a telling graphic detailing Penn State head coach James Franklin’s poor records versus top 5 opponents, top 10 opponents, top 25 opponents, and versus Michigan and Ohio State since 2014—stats that I did not know before watching this show.

During the discussion, a funny graphic read, “Who do you trust more? James Franklin in a big game or your dog left alone with a rotisserie chicken?”

Real talk here: if you’re looking for slick sets, perfectly coiffed commentators, cutting-edge fashion, glitter, and rhinestones, this show is not for you. However, if you want straight-up, bare-bones, all-in sports chat, get your coffee, your donut, and settle in on your couch or your office chair at 8:00 AM EST for Wake Up Barstool.

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.

Is Prime Video’s Bet Tracking the New Score Bug for Sports Broadcasts?

John Mamola
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Is Prime Video’s Bet Tracking the New Score Bug for Sports Broadcasts?

Call me old, but I remember the days of just watching a game on television. A full screen of action as you peered in from your home with no concern about missing a moment of the play. Then came the adoption of the score bug—a digital on-screen graphic that kept viewers aware of the score in real time. That was 31 years ago, when the score bug was first introduced during ESPN and ABC’s coverage of the 1994 FIFA World Cup.

All these years later, the score bug remains. Every network that carries live play-by-play has adapted some way of presenting time and score—the two most important things when it comes to keeping up with a live game.

With the NBA set to kick off its 11-year rights agreement with Prime Video this year. Amazon rolled out an announcement this week that could change the game of the score bug. A first-of-its-kind betting feature (for those who opt in, of course) that includes personalized bet tracking and real-time odds information during games. Is this the new age of the sports bug, and should it be concerning?

With yesterday’s announcement from Prime Video, it’s important to note a couple of key items.

First, the personalized bet-tracking experience is in partnership with FanDuel. Which means the feature is not currently available with other popular apps such as DraftKings or Hard Rock Bet.

Currently, 39 states and Washington, D.C., have legalized sports betting. Not every state permits the use of FanDuel, however; only 23 states currently have access to the FanDuel sportsbook app.

It’s also important to note that this feature is opt-in. You must choose to link your FanDuel account to your Prime Video profile to access the tool. It’s not being forced on the viewing experience, yet.

FanDuel Bet Tracking (Courtesy: Amazon Press)
FanDuel Bet Tracking (Courtesy: Amazon Press)

In short, the tool presents a score bug that showcases your active NBA bets along with relevant progress on win/loss status. It also provides an “Odds View” experience. A rotating feed of live odds, lines, and probabilities associated with popular bets. From props to totals to parlays and more.

So much for the health of the score bug.

Is This a Good Thing?

I’m a believer that the future belongs to those who try new things.

The score bug was deemed “annoying” at first, but can you imagine a broadcast without it today? You would feel lost. Today, the score bug has morphed from a simple information graphic into a promotional tool. Time and score are often replaced by branded advertisements and network promos, then switched back to time and score for the next play. New things are introduced, they adapt, and then they become irreplaceable.

That’s the concern I have for the innovation announced this week by FanDuel and Prime Video. Could this be the start of a new norm in our television viewing experience?

I’m not blind to the fact that sports gambling will only continue to grow. With every new state voting to legalize, the revenue will only increase. Sportsbook advertising has become the lifeblood of many sports radio stations and regional sports networks that carry local play-by-play.

Can you go one commercial break during a sporting event without seeing an ad for DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, or another sportsbook? When you listen to your local broadcast. Can you go an inning, quarter, or period without being made aware of a new “bonus bet” deal you can’t pass up?

Sports betting was already a significant presence during NBA games. Accounting for 2.46% of household TV ad impressions during live NBA action last year, according to data from iSpot – No. 11 among all industries.

The Guardian quoted a study from the University of Bristol that found viewers of the Stanley Cup Final encountered an average of 3.5 marketing messages from betting firms every minute.

Networks Always Copy What Works

If the future belongs to those who try new things. Is this what networks desire to set themselves apart from the rest? Could there be a day when live betting lines replace time and score? Are we on the verge of normalizing the money line over the stat line?

FanDuel Odds View (Courtesy: Amazon Press)
FanDuel Odds View (Courtesy: Amazon Press)

The New York Times recently published an article noting that in-game betting on DraftKings grew twice as fast as pregame betting from 2023 to 2024. In terms of bets placed, total money wagered, and revenue. With AI now being used to automate and accelerate the creation of more betting markets. In-game betting is expected to continue its rapid growth.

Revenues from in-game betting alone are estimated to triple by the end of the decade, reaching more than $14 billion, according to a report from the investment bank Citizens. The innovation presented this week will only help that number grow—which means more money for sportsbooks and networks, with little consideration for the well-being of the fan.

In the famous words of Dr. Ian Malcolm, “You were so preoccupied with whether they could, they didn’t stop to think if they should.”

If this new feature from FanDuel and Prime Video becomes popular, other networks will copy it. They’ll find ways to add to it. Then they’ll find ways to make money on it. Eventually it will become irreplaceable for the viewing experience.

Just like the score bug over three decades ago.

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 Balancing Act for Rock and Alternative Radio

Keith Cunningham
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The Balancing Act for Rock and Alternative Radio

Trying to be all things to all people never works out. There is a difference between being “family friendly” and family friendly. Especially for rock and alternative radio stations.

If you know how Nielsen ratings work, you know everyone in the home has to play along. Parents, kids, and even Uncle Barry in the basement. If you’re living under the roof, crank it up and rip off the knob.

This is one reason why brands pay close attention to school drop-off and pick-up. It’s also why you might hear stations promoting giveaways for all you can eat popcorn and a family 4-pack of tickets to the Circus.

In theory, everyone wins. Adults get their music, kids get clowns and popcorn, and the station racks up quarter-hours.

It’s not dumb logic. When many from the same household listen to the same station, those listening hours pile up. They can, at least temporarily, change rankers and make or break in-format battles.

We’ve all seen brands play it safe:

  • A movie edits a shower scene to avoid an R rating.
  • Radio rolls out the “Is Your Kid Smarter Than the DJ” game at 7:45am.
  • NFL rules that now bring a flag just for breathing on the QB.

Some call those credibility killers, but they’re not. It’s sensible programming. But there’s a fine line between being too safe too often — and being reckless. 

Blasting “Closer” or calling for the “Threesome of the Day” topic at school drop-off isn’t smart. But neither is masking-up to the point of making sure little ears don’t ever hear something spicy.

The RockTernative audience WANTS spicy.

Rock and Alternative weren’t built on safe.

Led Zeppelin, Sex Pistols, GNR, and Nirvana didn’t write songs for the carpool lane. Counterculture, volume, rebellion, angst — that’s the foundation. It’s what made the music famous and it’s what the audience expects.

Threading the needle between spice and smart is what separates good programming from great programming. It’s where the game is really played.

Think of it like a weekend at the movies.

  • At the Pop theater, imagine a Steven Spielberg Rom-Com starring Jennifer Aniston.
  • Over at RockTernative, it’s Quinton Tarantino’s freak-fest with Sydney Sweeney.

Now apply it to Radio Speak.

  • “Up next, I have your chance to win a 4-pack of tickets for you and the whole family.” That’s fine — but it’s Spielberg, it’s the Pop station.
  • RockTernative can deliver the same message with an edge. “Happy Hour beers, the Sunday Ticket AND Circus tickets — all in the SAME month? Brutal. I’ll spot you 4 Circus tickets at 4pm.”

Not perfect, but it’s same message with a different filter. Both are family friendly.

The same applies for marketing copy, liners, promos, website, social, sales decks. Yes, sales decks should echo the brand’s on-air swagger, too. If your sales department is sending out watered down, vanilla decks that 103.5 The Breeze would use, step in and help them out so the client knows what they’re getting.

A little PG-13, especially in the right spots, is gold. Just play the odds. It’s like dayparting a song for mood, volume, length, lyrical content. 

Football does it every week:

  • Fourth and 1 isn’t the time for a deep pass. Play it safe, keep the chains moving. That’s the morning school run.
  • Second and 2 is when to drop the double reverse. That’s cranking the loud stuff and talking to listeners about things the little ones can’t (or shouldn’t) understand.

With Nielsen throwing the flags and keeping score, the whole household matters. But RockTernative doesn’t have to be family friendly to win families.

Find the balance. It’s not vanilla. It’s not reckless. Dude, it’s just RockTernative.

How Kristen Kurtis Became WXPN’s Morning Radio Staple

Charese Fruge
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How Kristen Kurtis Became WXPN’s Morning Radio Staple

For Kristen Kurtis, radio has always been about more than just playing music. “It’s about connection,” she says. From her first student shifts at Emerson College’s WERS-FM to her current role as Morning Show Host and Assistant Music Director at WXPN in Philadelphia, where she’s celebrating ten years this month, she’s built a career on authenticity, adaptability, and a passion for helping artists and audiences find each other.

Kurtis got her start in 2003 hosting a world music show at WERS. She quickly moved to mornings before landing her first paid gig at WBOS-FM in Boston at just 20 years old. Honing her craft across multiple formats and markets is how she spent her next decade. She worked in Top 40 in Spokane, and AAA in Austin, before returning home to Philadelphia in 2015. “Frankly, making it back home, and to a top 10 market, is something I’m extremely proud of,” she says.

The spark that set her on this path came years earlier. At 13 years old, Kurtis scored passes from her favorite DJ to see a private show with her then favorite band Fuel “Don’t judge!” she interjects. “While I sat there at my first concert, I realized, this is what I wanted to do,” she recalls. “I want to help deserving artists get airplay, and help people who need music to survive this life discover it.”

At WXPN, Kurtis wears multiple hats. She’s not only the Morning Show Host, but also her own producer. That includes prepping, scheduling music, recording interviews, and managing the flow of the show with her co-host Bob Bumbera. As Assistant Music Director, she reviews new music, contributes to weekly programming decisions, and communicates with colleagues across the industry.

Her listeners often tell her that she and Bumbera give them the energy they need to start their day. That community connection is central to her approach. “It means a great deal to me that we can provide some sense of normalcy in 2025. It gives our audience a smile alongside the latest music and information.”

Of course, live radio always brings its share of challenges. Kurtis recalls times when the station’s digital system crashed and she had to improvise with long songs from CDs, or the moment she accidentally coughed hot tea onto the touchscreen, sending sounders into chaos. Through it all, she’s leaned on quick thinking, humor, and a calm presence to keep the audience engaged.

Philadelphia, she says, has been a perfect fit for her. “No one likes us, we don’t care,” Kurtis laughs, referencing the city’s well-known mantra. “This city is VERY loyal to its local media stars. I’ve been all over this country. I never found another city that lets their TV and radio hosts stay on the air for decades and celebrates those milestones.”

Among her proudest career moments: historic ratings success in three different markets and interviewing her musical idol, Tori Amos. Among her biggest challenges: navigating a polarized political climate while maintaining a welcoming space for listeners. “I let the music do the talking for us and try to be attentive to our audience’s need for a friendly voice.”

Kurtis is equally passionate about the future of radio, especially when it comes to representation. “Be aware you are entering a male-dominated field,” she advises young women looking to break in. “Find other women: mentors to guide you through it, colleagues to go through it with. They will keep you sane.”

She believes the industry can do better by hiring more women and rethinking how radio integrates with changing listening habits. “I think we are too stuck in old-school modes of operating sometimes. The way people consume music has changed, it continues to evolve alongside technology. It may behoove us to examine how their current habits could be incorporated more into radio programming.”

When she’s not on the air, Kurtis pursues creative outlets like songwriting, stand-up comedy, and voiceover work, or she simply enjoys baking, traveling, and taking care of her cat and fish.

Two decades into her career, she’s still guided by that 13-year-old’s revelation: that radio has the power to change lives. And every morning at WXPN, Kristen Kurtis makes sure it does.

Follow Kristen on Facebook at facebook.com/kristenkurtis, and on Instagram & Threads at @kristen_kurtis.

106.1 BLI Becomes 106.1 TLI Ahead of Taylor Swift’s ‘The Life of a Showgirl’ Album

BMM Staff
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106.1 BLI Becomes 106.1 TLI Ahead of Taylor Swift’s ‘The Life of a Showgirl’ Album

Taylor Swift is set to debut a new album — The Life of a Showgirl — next week, and 106.1 BLI is making plans to showcase the new music.

The station has temporarily rebranded as 106.1 TLI “Long Island’s #1 for All The Swifties.” The “Taylor Takeover” will feature plenty of new and old Taylor Swift music.

On Friday, the station will air the new album in full from 10 AM to 4:30 PM. It will feature commercial-free, uninterrupted listening for listeners.

“Our audience lives and breathes pop culture, and no one moves the needle like Taylor Swift,” said 106.1 BLI Operations Manager and Program Director Chris Lloyd. “We wanted to create a moment that honors the fan culture, drives excitement, and makes Long Island feel like the epicenter of this global release. It’s a full takeover in every sense.”

Additionally, the station is hosting a private, invitation-only screening of The Official Release Party of a Showgirl feature film, with morning host Ally Ali giving away tickets on the station’s morning show.

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.

Todd McShay: The Jalen Carter Situation “Pushed Me Over off the Edge” With Paul Finebaum

BSM Staff
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Todd McShay: The Jalen Carter Situation “Pushed Me Over off the Edge” With Paul Finebaum

Todd McShay did not mince words when discussing his former ESPN colleague Paul Finebaum, labeling the longtime SEC Network host a “coward” during a recent episode of his podcast. McShay, who spent nearly two decades at ESPN as a college football and NFL Draft analyst before his departure in 2023, expanded on his words about his former teammate on the latest episode of God Bless Football.

McShay said his criticism of Finebaum on his podcast was not a sudden outburst, but rather the result of years of frustration that built up behind the scenes.

“I’ll say this. There were several things over the years, and I worked with Paul and under the same umbrella for about a decade, there were several things that rubbed me the wrong way. There were people who just didn’t like Paul in the building,” McShay explained. “In the building we’d go out to, whether it was the Rose Bowl or bowl game or a national championship, and he would be there, and the comments from other people that I would overhear, or be in a circle of people talking. They [said] he didn’t look like the rest of us. He didn’t know ball, all those things. He’s a different cat. I never got involved in that… but several times over the years, he crossed the line on that. It’s like I thought we’re teammates.”

McShay pointed to a particular incident in 2023 ahead of the NFL Draft that involved then Alabama defensive lineman Jalen Carter. While he didn’t dive into specifics, McShay singled out that moment as the end of their relationship.

“The Jalen Carter situation was what pushed me off the edge. It was absolutely unacceptable. I don’t trust the man. I think he’s a coward of a man, and that’s it,” said McShay.

The pointed remarks came as McShay acknowledged the timing of his candor. He revealed that his two-year buyout agreement with ESPN expired on October 1, freeing him to speak openly without contractual restrictions.

“My two-year buyout with ESPN ended October 1. Today is October 1. So I’m more comfortable talking about all of that,” McShay said. “This isn’t an ESPN thing. Like, I love Burke Magnus. I think he’s one of those people who’s both a great guy and great at his job. I love so many people at ESPN, so I’m not going on this scorched earth tour now that ties are cut off between ESPN and myself.”

At the same time, McShay made it clear he doesn’t intend to turn his podcast into a running feud with Finebaum or a broader attack on ESPN. Instead, he positioned his comments as an isolated explanation of lingering issues that boiled over.

“Honestly, it seems like I’m building up to this crescendo and like you’re driving traffic,” McShay said. “I think you know me well enough. It’s not my thing. I’m much happier and more comfortable talking about college games, NFL prospects, all that stuff.”

Finebaum, who still works for ESPN, has not publicly responded to McShay’s remarks.

McShay promised the audience he will be discussing the entire reason for his commentary on an upcoming episode of The McShay Show 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.

Bloomberg Radio Institutes Round of Layoffs, Michael Lysak, Other Talents Exit

BNM Staff
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Bloomberg Radio has undergone a round of layoffs, with several employees exiting, including the company’s Head of Global Radio and TV Syndication, Michael Lysak.

Lysak had been with Bloomberg since joining in 1993. He previously oversaw the launch of Bloomberg Television, as well as the company’s international channels in Europe and Asia.

Before joining the company, Lysak worked as a news anchor and reporter at stations like 880 WCBS and 710 WOR in New York, among others.

Additionally, Barrett Media has confirmed that afternoon business anchor Nancy Lyons has exited. She joined Bloomberg Radio after having previous anchoring experience for the likes of NPR, AP Radio Network, and CBS Radio, among others.

Also exiting is Jeff Bellinger, who joined Bloomberg after spending more than 25 years covering business and financial news at CNBC, ABC, and The Wall Street Journal. During his time at Bloomberg, Bellinger also hosted the Green Report for the company, sharing the latest news and trends related to the environment, conservation, and renewable energy.

Tracy Johnke is also exiting the company after a decade. She previously worked at CBS Radio and WTOP in Washington, D.C. before joining Bloomberg Radio in 2015. She anchored live reports for the company’s major-market affiliates.

Kimberly Adams is also departing her role as a correspondent with the network. She joined Bloomberg in 2022 after previously working as an anchor at KYW Newsradio in Philadelphia. She also spent time working at KYW-TV in the city, as well as time at TV stations in Boston, Dallas, New York, and Albany.

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.

107.1 The Boss Adds Greg T to Mornings Alongside Rochelle Gagnon

BMM Staff
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107.1 The Boss Adds Greg T to Mornings Alongside Rochelle Gagnon

107.1 The Boss has announced the addition of Greg “Greg T” Tyndorf to its morning show, to pair with existing host Rochelle Gagnon.

Greg T previously worked for more than two decades as part of the Elvis Duran morning show on Z100 in New York. He later worked for almost five years as the morning show host on 103.5 WKTU before departing that show last year.

“You never know what you have till it’s gone,” Greg T said. “Born and raised in East Brunswick, I never left New Jersey, and to be on-air in the area I grew up in makes me super excited.”

He steps into the shoes vacated by Robby Bridges’ exit from the show and station, when he departed to join Connoisseur Media as Program Director of 103.1 The Wolf and WEBE 108 on Long Island.

 “I’m beyond excited to kick off this new adventure with ‘T’ right here on 107.1 The Boss!” said Gagnon. “His energy and creativity are contagious, and I know our listeners are going to love what’s in store. This is such an exciting new chapter for the station, and I’m so proud to be part of it.”

“Greg T. is a true Jersey original,” said Press Communications Vice President of Programming Mike Ryan. “His authenticity and larger-than-life personality have made him one of the most recognizable voices in morning radio. We’re thrilled to welcome him to The Boss and can’t wait for listeners to experience this next chapter of his incredible journey.”

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.

MLS’s Richest Teams in 2025: Who’s Got the Money?

Sponsored Post
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MLS’s Richest Teams in 2025: Who’s Got the Money?

Major League Soccer isn’t the small-time league it used to be. In 2025, it’s home to billion-dollar clubs, global stars, and massive stadiums. The duels are exciting and provide fans with thrills, just as well-known sweepstakes gaming sites do with online gamers. Some teams are now worth more than clubs in Europe’s top leagues.  Let’s take a quick look at the wealthiest squads in MLS and what’s driving their value.

Top of the List

At the top is LAFC, worth about $1.28 billion. Not far behind is Inter Miami, sitting at around $1.2 billion. These two lead the pack, but LA Galaxy, Atlanta United, and NYCFC are close, all valued near or over the $1 billion mark.

These numbers come from reports by Forbes and Sportico. They include more than just cash in the bank. Stadiums, clothing, media coverage, and ticket sales are all factors that increase net worth.

Why Are They So Valuable?

Big Names

In 2023, Inter Miami became the team to watch, as Argentinian superstar Lionel Messi signed with the Herons, and by 2025 it’s brand is valued higher, than Milan superclub with the same name. His presence drove up ticket prices, sold out stadiums, and brought in global fans. Seeing that kind of attention, other MLS teams jumped in too, bringing in big-name international players to ride the wave.

Big Cities

Clubs in places like Los Angeles, New York, and Miami naturally draw bigger crowds. More fans means more tickets, more gear sold, and more people watching.

Stadiums and Facilities

Some teams own their own stadiums. That adds real value. It also brings in more income through concerts and events. Atlanta United, for example, shares a state-of-the-art stadium with the NFL’s Falcons. That’s a major asset.

Media and Merch

The Apple TV deal changed the game. Fans around the world can now watch MLS easily. More eyeballs mean more sponsors. Teams are also pushing merchandise hard, especially with star players on their rosters.

Who Spends the Most on Players?

Some of the league’s biggest earners are also the biggest spenders. Here are a few names:

  • Lionel Messi (Inter Miami) – still the league’s top-paid player, making over $20 million in salary and bonuses.
  • Lorenzo Insigne (Toronto FC) – another big contract.
  • Sergio Busquets and Luis Suárez (Inter Miami) – veterans with high salaries.

These clubs are betting that big names will drive ticket sales and brand growth.

Money Doesn’t Always Mean Wins

Having money helps, but it doesn’t guarantee trophies. Some rich teams have missed the playoffs. Others spend big but struggle with team chemistry or injuries.

There’s also pushback from fans who want more investment in local talent. Many believe youth academies are just as important as superstar signings. Some clubs are finding ways to do both.

Final Thoughts

The top five wealthiest MLS teams in 2025 are:

  1. LAFC
  2. Inter Miami
  3. LA Galaxy
  4. Atlanta United
  5. New York City FC

They have money, stars, and growing fanbases. But with that comes pressure—to win, to perform, and to stay relevant.

MLS is no longer just a “developing” league. These clubs are playing on a global stage. And the money proves it.

Classic Rock Comes to Q106 in Tallahassee

BMM Staff
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Classic Rock Comes to Q106 in Tallahassee

A new format has launched at Adams Radio Group in Tallahassee, as Q106 — a new classic rock station — has launched in Florida’s capital city.

Previously, the WQTL-FM signal had been known as Vibe 106.1. Last week, the station began stunting with an All Taylor Swift format, billing itself as WQTayL.

“Q106 is built for this city,” said Operations Manager and Program Director Tre “Twiggins” Wiggins. “We’re delivering the legends, the energy, and the attitude that only Classic Rock can bring. And it starts now.”

The station will focus on more 1970s to 1990s classic rock, as X101.5 — the iHeartMedia rock station in the market — features a more alternative format.

The station will add the nighttime program hosted by Alice Cooper — Alice’s Attic — to its daily lineup as part of the format change.

“Classic Rock is back in Tallahassee,” Adams Radio Group Tallahassee General Manager Steve Viehmeyer said. “For too long, this market has been without a station dedicated to the music people still turn up loud in their cars, garages, and backyards. Q106 fills that gap.”

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