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Podcast Time Spent Listening Peaks in Middays, Edison Research Data Shows

BNM Staff
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Podcast Time Spent Listening Peaks in Middays, Edison Research Data Shows

Many daily podcasts are scheduled to release each morning in advance of 6 AM. But new data from Edison Research shows that podcast listening actually peaks later in the day.

Drive time — between 6-10 AM and 2-6 PM — is often viewed as the highest time spent listening to most audio mediums. But that doesn’t appear to be true of podcast users.

According to the latest Edison Research Share of Ear data, 29% of podcast listening takes place from 10 AM to 2 PM.

That figure is just slightly higher than 6-10 AM, which saw 24%, and 2-6 PM, which rested at 21% of the overall podcast listening.

Interestingly, podcast listening does not cease in the overnight hours. 3% of all time spent listening to podcasts takes place between 2-6 AM. And Edison Research says there’s a reason for that.

“Some people keep very different hours and schedules from the traditional 9-5 workday,” the company shared.

In the evening hours, 12% of listening happens between 6-10 PM, with an additional 11% taking place from 10 PM to 2 AM.

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.

D.C. Sports Reporter/Host Craig Heist Passes Away

BSM Staff
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D.C. Sports Reporter/Host Craig Heist Passes Away

The Washington D.C. and Baltimore sports world is mourning the loss of Craig Heist, a respected journalist and broadcaster whose voice was a fixture in press boxes across the region for decades. Known for his professionalism, warmth, and approachable nature, Heist built enduring relationships with athletes, coaches, and fellow reporters throughout his career.

Heist’s passing was first shared by The Washington Post’s Tom Schad on X, who wrote, “Craig was an absolute fixture in the local sports media scene for decades—someone you’d see in every press box between D.C. and Baltimore. Always friendly, and kind. Terrible news.”

Audacy’s 106.7 The Fan also issued a statement mourning Heist’s loss, emphasizing his impact on both colleagues and fans.

“106.7 The Fan is saddened by the passing of our longtime friend and colleague Craig Heist,” the station said. “Craig was a longtime anchor and reporter for 106.7 The Fan and postgame host on the Nationals Radio Network since 2013, and had a storied career at stations across the Mid-Atlantic region. But above all, Craig was a husband, friend, and sports lover. Press boxes across the DMV will never be the same without his wide smile and infectious laugh. We will keep his family in our thoughts.”

Craig Heist graduated from Salisbury University in 1983. He began his broadcasting career at WKHI in Ocean City, Maryland, covering local college and high school sports including play-by-play and color for Salisbury football.

Over the past 30 years, he has covered Major League Baseball, the NFL, NBA, NHL and college basketball for several national networks including ESPN Radio, Sirius NFL Network, SBNation, CBS Sports Radio, AP and Metro Networks.

Craig has appeared on MASN as a guest panelist and occasional host of Nats Talk. He worked for WTOP for 14 years before moving to 106.7 The Fan in October of 2013.

He was a three-time winner of the Maryland Sportscaster of the Year, voted on by his peers.

Beyond his work, Heist was remembered for the camaraderie and joy he brought to every assignment. Colleagues said his presence could brighten any press box, and his approachable demeanor made him a mentor to many younger reporters entering the field.

Fans and sports media in the D.C. and Baltimore area also expressed their condolences on social media, recalling Heist’s signature enthusiasm and the passion he brought to each broadcast. Across the region, his loss has left a noticeable void in the sports media community, one that will be felt in stadiums and newsrooms alike.

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.

Rob Manfred Happy With Early MLB Playoff Viewership Figures

BSM Staff
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Rob Manfred Happy With Early MLB Playoff Viewership Figures

Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred is expressing satisfaction with how fans have tuned into this year’s postseason, calling the early viewership results “phenomenal” during an appearance on The Stephen A. Smith Show on SiriusXM.

Speaking with Smith, Manfred cited impressive numbers from both the Wild Card and Division Series rounds, emphasizing that the sport’s reach remains strong despite ongoing shifts in media consumption habits.

“Some of the numbers have been phenomenal,” Manfred said. “The Wild Card round on ESPN was up 64%. On the Division Series, we’re going to have our highest ratings in 10 years. That’s a long time to go back, particularly given how the media landscape has changed.”

Manfred’s optimism comes at a time when leagues across sports are competing for attention in an increasingly crowded entertainment space. The Wild Card 64 percent increase in viewership from last year’s Wild Card Series was the highest average for the WCS round since the current format was officially added in 2022. Baseball has long faced questions about maintaining relevance with younger audiences, but the commissioner said the numbers show the game continues to connect on a large scale — both in the U.S. and beyond.

He pointed to the recent matchup between the New York Yankees and Toronto Blue Jays as a key example of baseball’s cross-border appeal.

“People talk about you’re going to have a team from Canada,” Manfred said. “The Yankees–Toronto series averaged 6.7 million viewers in the U.S. and Canada. That’s a great showing for us and again is an emphasis on the internationalization of the sport. It’s not just a U.S. sport.”

MLB’s postseason viewership surge follows a regular season that already saw signs of growth. Attendance across the league increased for the second straight year, while streaming and social engagement continued trending upward. Networks like ESPN, FOX, and TBS have also benefited from high-profile matchups and big-market teams advancing deep into the playoffs.

Still, Manfred’s comments suggest he sees the recent success as part of a broader story — one that goes beyond short-term numbers. For a league working to balance tradition with innovation, the commissioner’s upbeat tone reflects confidence in baseball’s ability to evolve while maintaining its unique place in the sports landscape.

“I’ve taken a lot of pride in those numbers,” Manfred added. “I feel great for the game that it’s producing those kinds of results.”

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.

Howard Stern: SiriusXM Doesn’t Want Me to Talk About Contract Details, And I Don’t Want Them Talking About It

BNM Staff
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Howard Stern: SiriusXM Doesn’t Want Me to Talk About Contract Details, And I Don’t Want Them Talking About It

Howard Stern has revealed he has yet to officially come to a contract extension with SiriusXM.

In an interview with Andy Cohen on Friday morning, Stern revealed that despite his high-profile return to the company last month amid rumors that his show had been canceled, he hasn’t actually agreed to a new deal yet.

“I’m talking to Sirius right now about extending in some way, and if that works out great, and if it doesn’t, great. I mean not great, I love this company,” Stern shared.

He then added that reports about his deals should be taken with a grain of sale due to the close-to-the-vest nature both parties like to operate with in regard to his contracts.

“One of the things that I will tell you is that when I make a deal with Sirius, they don’t want me talking about it, and I don’t want them talking about it, but they do consider that material very important,” Stern said. 

In August, reports began surfacing that SiriusXM and Howard Stern were unlikely to reach an agreement on a contract extension. Originally, Stern was set to address the rumors on Tuesday, September 2nd. However, he later pushed back his return date.

At that return, the 71-year-old said he was very happy with the company and that he would be extending his deal with the satellite radio brand. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter on Monday, SiriusXM CEO Jennifer Witz said that she believes the company and Stern will “get to the right place” regarding a new deal.

“It’s really about what does Howard want? What do we want? What do our listeners want? And I think something will come together,” she said.

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.

ESPN Tabs Alyssa Lang For Sidelines On NBA Broadcasts

BSM Staff
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ESPN Tabs Alyssa Lang For Sidelines On NBA Broadcasts

ESPN is adding a fresh face to its NBA coverage this season. The network reportedly will add Alyssa Lang to serve as one of its sideline reporters, joining a rotation that includes Lisa Salters, Katie George, Jorge Sedano, and Malika Andrews. This is according to a report by Front Office Sports.

Her first NBA assignment comes this Sunday, when the Cleveland Cavaliers face the Boston Celtics in preseason action. Lang will work alongside play-by-play voice Mark Jones and analyst Doris Burke, marking her official debut on ESPN’s national NBA coverage.

Lang, who has worked as a host and reporter for ESPN and SEC Network since 2018, brings a lively and engaging personality to her new role. Known for her work on shows like Out of Pocket and SEC Now, she’s established herself as a versatile broadcaster with a strong connection to both athletes and fans.

ESPN’s decision to expand its sideline rotation reflects a continuing effort to bolster its on-air presence across the NBA schedule. In addition to Lang’s addition, the network recently announced that Malika Andrews will return to the sidelines this season after spending the past two years focusing primarily on studio duties. Andrews, who hosts NBA Today and NBA Countdown, recently signed a contract extension with ESPN.

While Andrews will continue to lead NBA Today, her Countdown responsibilities will be scaled back during the postseason. The change comes as ESPN prepares to license elements of TNT’s Inside the NBA, a move that could reshape the network’s playoff coverage and studio presentation.

Lang’s addition comes during a period of transition for ESPN’s NBA team. Earlier this year, Cassidy Hubbarth departed the network to become the lead sideline reporter for Amazon’s new NBA package, creating an opportunity for Lang to step into the national spotlight.

With her energy, humor, and experience connecting with players and coaches in the SEC, Lang’s transition to the NBA sidelines appears to be a natural fit. She becomes part of an evolving roster of reporters and analysts that ESPN hopes will bring a fresh, engaging feel to its coverage this season.

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.

Mike Gallagher to Host Salem Radio Network Show From Israel As Peace Deal Enacted

BNM Staff
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Mike Gallagher to Host Salem Radio Network Show From Israel As Peace Deal Enacted

Salem Radio Network host Mike Gallagher is set to make a return trip to Israel later this month to broadcast his nationally syndicated radio show.

Gallagher will be in the country on October 29th-31st, broadcasting interviews with Israel government officials, the Israeli Defense Forces, and U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, among others.

The trip comes on the heels of a peace deal negotiated between Israel and the Hamas terrorist organization to stop the fighting in Gaza. The deal was brokered by members of the Trump administration, and is expected to be enacted in the coming days.

It is the latest trip to Israel for Mike Gallagher, following the beginning of the fighting between the two entities more than two years ago. He went to the country in February and March last year to show an on-the-ground view of what was happening in the nation.

“It can be tricky and distracting, but it’s important because you know the audience wants to be there,” Gallagher told Barrett Media after his initial trip. “To be part of that breaking news is what it’s all about. I would encourage anybody who has a little ingenuity, creativity, and a little bit of a budget, to go over there and tell the story to your audience here in the United States. It’ll be transformational.”

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 Breakfast Club Comes to Power 99 After iHeartMedia Layoffs

BMM Staff
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The Breakfast Club Comes to Power 99 After iHeartMedia Layoffs

Days after the Rise & Grind Morning Show departed Power 99 in Philadelphia, the station has added The Breakfast Club to morning drive.

Mikey Dredd and MuthaKnows — two of the hosts of the Rise & Grind Morning Show — departed the station earlier this week amid ongoing nationwide layoffs at iHeartMedia. Roxy Romeo — one of the other co-hosts — will move to a different daypart on the station.

In its place, the company has added the morning show helmed by Charlamagne Tha God, DJ Envy, and Jess Hilarious, and is distributed by Premiere Networks. The show is based at Power 105.1 in New York.

“The Breakfast Club has remained a cultural touchstone for over a decade, connecting millions of listeners with the biggest names in music, entertainment, and politics,” iHeartMedia Executive Vice President of Programming Thea Michem said.

“It’s unique blend of candid conversation, humor and insight keeps it as relevant today as ever, shaping culture while giving a platform to voices that matter,” Michem concluded.

The Breakfast Club will begin in morning drive on Power 99 on Monday, October 13th.

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.

VSiN Expands Podcast Network With New Shows, Returning Programs

BSM Staff
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VSiN Expands Podcast Network With New Shows, Returning Programs

VSiN, The Sports Betting Network, is expanding its popular podcast network with a slate of new and returning shows aimed at giving fans even more insight, entertainment, and analysis across the growing world of sports wagering.

The network, known for its data-driven coverage and authentic conversations around sports betting, announced that its latest lineup will dig deeper into key markets and themes while maintaining VSiN’s trademark focus on actionable information for bettors.

“With demand for quality sports betting programming at an all-time high, we’re answering fans’ calls for more sports betting programming, covering even more markets and angles,” said Steve Cohen, EVP of talent and programming at VSiN. “Adding these new titles further secures VSiN’s position as the leading creator of sports betting content anywhere. Our continued commitment to actionable, credible, high-quality content sets us apart from the competition and fuels our growth.”

Among the new and returning titles is Pod to the Futures, hosted by VSiN’s Mitch Moss and Jonathan Von Tobel, which takes a unique look at season-long odds and futures across major leagues and events. Another fan favorite, The College Football Betting Podcast with Tim Murray, returns with three weekly episodes offering lines, picks, and predictions to help listeners stay sharp during the season.

Combat sports fans can tune in to First Strike, hosted by Dave Ross and Rob Moreno, which delivers sharp analysis of the week’s MMA, UFC, and boxing betting action twice a week. Meanwhile, Sharp Money, hosted by Patrick Meagher and Mike Somich, offers immediate postgame analysis on Sundays and early-week previews each Thursday, giving listeners a timely edge on NFL betting trends.

VSiN is also giving The GM Shuffle a fresh twist. The long-running podcast, produced for DraftKings Network, now features former NFL executive Marty Hurney alongside former offensive guard Geoff Schwartz. The pairing provides listeners with insider access and a dual perspective from both front-office and player viewpoints.

Another standout addition is Fade Us Sports, featuring poker icons Phil Hellmuth, Mike “The Mouth” Matusow, Brandon Cantu, and David Woodley. The group brings more than 30 years of friendship, rivalry, and championship experience—along with 23 World Series of Poker bracelets—to their unfiltered, high-stakes conversations about sports and betting.

Coming soon, longtime VSiN personality Pauly Howard will launch Pauly Does Vegas, a new podcast exploring the colorful stories and legends of Las Vegas, past and present.

“Collectively, VSiN is the leading destination in podcasting for sports fans, reaching more than eight million people,” said David Krulewich, CEO of Mission Media. “With unmatched loyalty and scale, the VSiN Podcast Network gives advertisers the strongest path to influence.”

The VSiN Podcast Network also includes popular titles such as VSiN Best Bets, Beating the Book, Long Shots, The Baseball Betting Show, and VSiN at the Track.

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.

ESPN Signs Fantasy Sports, Betting Writer Eric Moody To Multi-Year Extension

BSM Staff
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ESPN Signs Fantasy Sports, Betting Writer Eric Moody To Multi-Year Extension

ESPN has signed fantasy sports and sports betting analyst Eric Moody to a new multi-year contract renewal, solidifying his role as a prominent contributor across the network’s fantasy and wagering platforms.

Under the new agreement, Moody will continue delivering fantasy football and betting insights around the NFL, NBA, and WNBA. His work will remain featured across ESPN’s digital and on-air programming, including Fantasy Football Now, Fantasy Focus, and ESPN Radio. Additionally, Moody will continue appearing on NFL Blitz, the network’s NFL-focused program for fans in Australia and New Zealand streaming on Disney+.

“Eric is smart, curious and passionate about this industry, and it shows in his work,” said Andrew Feldman, ESPN’s Senior Deputy Editor of Fantasy Sports and Sports Betting. “He’s become a trusted voice for our fantasy and betting coverage at ESPN, and we’re pleased to have him back.”

Moody, who joined ESPN in 2021, has become a key figure in helping bridge traditional fantasy analysis with the expanding world of sports wagering. His detailed statistical approach and consistent on-air presence have made him a recognizable voice among fantasy enthusiasts and bettors alike.

“I’m thrilled to begin another tour of duty at ESPN,” Moody said. “It still feels surreal since one of my biggest goals was to build a career in sports media. I’m grateful for the chance to continue offering analysis on the NFL, NBA, and WNBA through digital content and on air. I’m excited to see what the future holds.”

The renewal underscores ESPN’s continued investment in fantasy sports and betting content, areas that have seen significant growth over the past few years. With sports wagering becoming more mainstream, ESPN has leaned into expanding its coverage across platforms — a space Moody has helped strengthen through data-driven analysis and fan engagement.

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.

Fox News’ Guy Benson Gives Update After Cancer Diagnosis

BNM Staff
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Fox News’ Guy Benson Gives Update After Cancer Diagnosis

Fox News Radio host Guy Benson has revealed he was recently diagnosed with cancer, and underwent a successful procedure to remove the issue.

Benson revealed that he had been diagnosed with an invasive malignant melanoma, which he said was caught “very early.”

In a post to social media, Benson shared the news, showcasing a segment from his nationally syndicated radio show revealing the news.

“I’ve recently had a brush with a word that no one ever wants to hear — cancer,” said Benson. “Thank God, I noticed something and we caught it very early. It’s now been physically excised from my body and the doctor says no further treatment is needed. It looks like I’m going to be okay, God willing.”

Benson added that he wasn’t sharing the news for the “woe is me” factor, but instead with a mission in mind of informing the public about the dangers of the disease and how to identify it.

“I wasn’t inclined to share this news publicly (especially because the internet can be an insane and unforgiving place), but ultimately decided that making the following plea is worth it: Please, please, please get skin checks. It’s a small inconvenience, but it truly could save your life.”

Guy Benson is the host of The Guy Benson Show, heard nationally on Fox News Radio from 3-6 PM ET. He is also a regular contributor to Fox News.

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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