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Craig Carton: “Brandon Tierney, Sal Licata Did Nothing Wrong” as They Depart WFAN

BSM Staff
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Craig Carton: “Brandon Tierney, Sal Licata Did Nothing Wrong” as They Depart WFAN

Craig Carton addressed the ripple effects of his highly publicized return to WFAN, offering praise and empathy for Brandon Tierney and Sal Licata while acknowledging the difficult realities of sports radio roster changes.

Appearing on Evan & Tiki, Carton spoke candidly about how his move back into afternoon drive coincided with the end of Tierney and Licata’s program on the station. While Carton was not involved in the decision-making process, he emphasized that the two hosts handled their departures with professionalism and grace.

“Brandon and Sal didn’t do anything wrong,” Carton said. “It’s a tough business we’ve all chosen, but it’s the business we have chosen. And I thought they handled the news as well as anyone in the history of radio’s ever handled it.”

Tierney and Licata were allowed to remain on the air through the conclusion of their run with the station. Carton noted that decision spoke volumes about the trust WFAN management had in the duo.

“I’ve never been in a situation where a radio station or company allowed someone who’s not continuing at that station to still go on the air,” Carton said. “They never would have let those guys go on the air if there wasn’t an amazing amount of trust, right, and professionalism.”

While Carton acknowledged how painful the situation was for those affected, he expressed confidence in both hosts’ futures.

“I also root for them and want the best for them,” said Carton. “I’m sure they will land on their feet and do amazing things in the future, in their careers.”

Carton also addressed some listener reaction to his return, particularly criticism suggesting his arrival directly caused others to lose their jobs. While understanding that perception, he said the circumstances were more complex than they appeared.

“I get it, and I’m sensitive to it, and I just want the best for those two guys,” Carton said. “Unfortunately, that’s not here right now, but you never know what the future holds.”

In addition to Tierney and Licata’s exit, Carton’s return resulted in Evan & Tiki moving from afternoon drive to middays. Carton made a point to acknowledge the sacrifice Evan Roberts and Tiki Barber made in the reshuffling for his eventual return.

“I am very sensitive to the fact that my coming back has not been good for everybody,” Carton said. “I know you guys moving from afternoon drive. Which I know means the world to you guys, to a different day part isn’t what you expected or wanted.”

Despite the changes, Carton expressed confidence in WFAN’s revamped lineup and gratitude toward his colleagues for embracing the transition. “I appreciate the fact that you’re doing it with a smile on your face. You are going to kill it in middays,” he said.

Licata officially signed off from WFAN last week, while Tierney officially signed off BT & Sal in middays earlier Friday.

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.

101.1 Big Buck Country Debuts in Greenville

BMM Staff
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101.1 Big Buck Country Debuts in Greenville

Changes are afoot at Audacy Greenville as 101.1 Big Buck Country debuts in the South Carolina market.

The move marks the first new country station in the area in 40 years, the company says. Previously, the 101.1 FM signal featured a classic rock signal.

However, Audacy will focus the attention of 93.3 The Planet to an expanded rock library. As part of that shift, former Classic Rock 101.1 host The Stoneman is moving to afternoons on 93.3 The Planet as part of it’s all local lineup.

“I am excited to give our listeners the best of both worlds, an exciting new home for country fans with 101.1 Big Buck Country, and a stronger, more dynamic rock presence on 93.3 The Planet,” said Audacy Greenville Operations Manager Mark Hendrix.

“We’re expanding our offerings while keeping the personalities and music our audience loves,” Hendrix continued. “This reflects our commitment to serving the Upstate with the best entertainment, talent and radio experience possible.”

The new country station will compete with the already established iHeartMedia country stations in the Greenville/Spartanburg market, as 100.5 The Whistle and 92.5 WESC also broadcast the format in the area.

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.

Brandon Tierney Teases New Program On YouTube Following WFAN Exit

BSM Staff
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Brandon Tierney Teases New Program On YouTube Following WFAN Exit

Brandon Tierney is wasting little time turning the page. Immediately after an emotional on-air exit from Audacy’s WFAN on Friday afternoon, Tierney announced the launch of a new digital program titled Unkillable to Unleashed, which will debut Monday on YouTube.

The move signals the veteran New York sports radio host’s next chapter following the end of his exit from New York City’s WFAN following the station coming to terms on another return of Craig Carton.

Tierney shared the news with listeners and followers on social media with just a static image and a message of, “Catch you Monday.” Tierney concluded his final BT & Sal program with four hours of emotional conversations surrounding his tenure at the radio station. Emotions ran high as he reflected on his journey, the people he worked alongside, and the uncertainty ahead.

While his departure from the iconic sports radio station marked a significant career shift, Tierney’s post made it clear he is not stepping away from sports media. Details and a personal YouTube channel have not been revealed. The post engagement he received became instantaneous. The move signifies he is pivoting quickly to a platform he believes offers creative freedom and direct audience connection.

Unkillable to Unleashed is being positioned as a personal and professional evolution for Tierney. In his farewell remarks, Tierney expressed gratitude to WFAN management, colleagues, and listeners. He also acknowledged the emotional weight of leaving a station that played a central role in his career.

Speaking with Barrett Media, Tierney looked forward to the challenge ahead.

“It is my mission to find the next thing, and it’s exciting. I’m open to talking to anybody. The industry has changed tremendously. I was smart enough to know that I wasn’t going to have a twenty-year run at WFAN and find myself in my sixties with the option to retire. I always knew there would be a next chapter. Not a footnote, but a big chapter that’s going to look very different than the chapters I’ve written so far. I’m excited about that,” said Tierney.

Whether Unkillable to Unleashed evolves into a daily show, a broader media brand, or a stepping stone to another traditional outlet remains to be seen. What is clear is that Tierney is intent on staying visible, vocal, and engaged immediately following his WFAN exit.

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.

Mike Missanelli: 97.5 The Fanatic’s ‘Make the Switch’ Campaign Will Never Work Against 94 WIP

BSM Staff
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Mike Missanelli: 97.5 The Fanatic’s ‘Make the Switch’ Campaign Will Never Work Against 94 WIP

Former 97.5 The Fanatic host Mike Missanelli said the station’s recent “Make The Switch” campaign is unlikely to dent the dominance of 94 WIP in the city’s sports radio market. Speaking on The OnPattison Podcast, Missanelli offered a blunt assessment of why the messaging is failing and why The Fanatic is unlikely to close the gap with its longtime competitor.

“They’re so far behind in the ratings that there’s no way they could possibly catch up if they keep doing even what they do,” Missanelli said. “So where do you draw the line? WIP has given people the outrage that they want to hear, whether they want to hear it or not, because they’re listening to that station anyway.”

Missanelli was dismissed from The Fanatic earlier this year after the long-tenured voice of Philadelphia sports radio had returned to the airwaves of 97.5 The Fanatic in August of 2024, following a two-year departure from the brand.

Since his dismissal, several Fanatic talent have pushed a “Make The Switch” campaign the focus on attempting to attack the style of programming their Audacy competitor produces. Missanelli argued that the campaign’s promotional efforts simply aren’t reaching the right audience.

“At this point, The Fanatic would have to hire an airplane and drop little parachutes down, saying that this is what we do because the message isn’t getting heard by enough people,” he said. “The people that Jon Marks is talking to are people that are listening to his show anyway. He’s not lecturing to the WIP audience because he’s not getting to the WIP audience. How’s he get to WIP audience?”

Marks criticized his crosstown rival at 94 WIP for having “fake take radio” following WIP host Joe Giglio calling for Philadelphia Eagles quarterback to have one last shot at keeping his role with the team.

Missanelli also dissected what makes WIP successful, noting the simplicity of the station’s approach.

“It seems that they have a simple formula. You put any ex-football player on, preferably an ex-Eagle, with any nerd co-host, and you got an instant success. Look at their co-hosts. Look at the host that they have over there with the ex-Eagles. They got Larry, Curly, and Shemp. They don’t even have Moe,” Missanelli said, referencing the classic comedic trio.

Looking back on The Fanatic’s struggles, Missanelli traced the decline to a key personnel change.

“The downfall of The Fanatic began when they fired program director Matt Nahigian, who was the guy who knew exactly what he was doing, and we were competitive at that point with the other station,” he said. “The other station is a legacy station. They’ve been around since the 1950s. That brand is already out there. And second of all, they have rights to the two biggest entities in town, the Phillies and the Eagles. So when you’re listening to that station, you’re listening to the bigger sports that are running this town. You’re not going to… you’re going to be more reluctant to change to the other station.”

Missanelli’s critique of his former station underscores the challenge facing The Fanatic as it attempts to lure listeners from WIP, which continues to dominate Philadelphia’s sports radio landscape. Without a significant shake-up in strategy or talent, Missanelli suggested, the “Make The Switch” campaign may have little impact on the entrenched market leader.

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.

Guy Benson Joining the Washington Examiner in 2026

BNM Staff
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Guy Benson Joining the Washington Examiner in 2026

After exiting his role with Townhall.com after nearly 20 years, Guy Benson has a new home for his written content. He’s joining the Washington Examiner in the new year.

Last month, Benson shared that he was leaving Townhall.com after 18 years. He had served as the Political Editor of the outlet for the past 15 years.

Benson’s exit coincided with the departure of Townhall.com editor Katie Pavlich. Pavlich worked at the outlet for 16 years before departing in October. She has since been named a primetime host on NewsNation.

In a post on social media, Benson shared that he’s “thrilled to be joining” the outlet in the new year.

He added that he’s “excited to work with some outstanding colleagues whose work I’ve admired and read for years.”

The announcement from Guy Benson comes just days after announcing he had inked a contract extension to remain with Fox News. He’ll continue to serve a contributor with a new title of Fox News Political Analyst.

In addition to his work on Fox News, Guy Benson — who was recently diagnosed with cancer and underwent a procedure to remove it — hosts a daily news/talk radio show for Fox News Radio. The Guy Benson Show airs live from 3-6 PM ET.

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.

Damon Amendolara on the End of the Infinity Sports Network: “It’s Demoralizing”

BSM Staff
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Damon Amendolara on the End of the Infinity Sports Network: “It’s Demoralizing”

SiriusXM host Damon Amendolara expressed deep disappointment over the closure of the Infinity Sports Network, where he spent more than a decade of his career. The network, formerly named CBS Sports Radio, had been a fixture in national sports radio for years.

“It is gutting. It’s demoralizing. I spent 11 years of my career at CBS Sports Radio, and did some of the work I’m most proud of in my life with those guys,” Amendolara said, reflecting on his long tenure with the network.

Amendolara, who helped shape the network’s morning lineup during his tenure at CBS Sports Radio, highlighted the high level of national exposure and creative freedom the role afforded him.

“It’s really kind of surreal, those four or five years of morning radio on CBS Sports Radio. I open up against any sports radio show at a national level that has ever done it. I think we had done radio to a level that matches anybody’s execution. It was dynamic, it was eccentric, it was fun,” he said.

The Infinity Sports Network, which evolved from CBS Sports Radio, built a reputation for bold programming and personalities. Amendolara credited that period as some of the most creatively fulfilling of his career.

“I did some of the work I’m most proud of in my life with those guys,” he said, acknowledging both the camaraderie and professional achievement that defined his time at the network.

Earlier this year, Audacy and Cumulus announced the formation of the new Westwood One Sports Network. The announcement served as an extenssion a partnership between Westwood One and Audacy that first began with the launch of CBS Sports Radio in 2012.

Westwood One has handled sales and distribution for the network since its launch. Under this new partnership, Westwood One will handle programming and distribution for most of the syndicated sports lineup. Audacy will continue producing popular BetMGM Network programs moving to the new network. BetMGM will remain a presenting partner and the exclusive sportsbook partner for those programs.

While the closure of the network came as a disappointment, Amendolara noted that it was not entirely unexpected.

“It was predictable. I did sense that there were signs that it wasn’t going to be very long,” he said, hinting at internal shifts that signaled the network’s eventual shutdown.

For Amendolara, the end of the Infinity Sports Network is a professional milestone with both pride and disappointment. It serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of media platforms, even those that achieve national recognition.

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.

Philadelphia Flyers Suspend Radio Play-By-Play Announcer for Inappropriate Comment

BSM Staff
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Philadelphia Flyers Suspend Radio Play-By-Play Announcer for Inappropriate Comment

Philadelphia Flyers play-by-play announcer Tim Saunders has been suspended for two games after making an inappropriate on-air comment during a recent radio broadcast, the team announced.

The incident occurred late in the third period of a Flyers game, when Saunders appeared to believe the team had gone into a television timeout. Assuming the broadcast had shifted to a commercial break, Saunders hummed briefly to fill dead air before making a flippant remark (WARNING: CLIP IS NSFW) to a colleague.

Unbeknownst to Saunders, the microphone was still live, and color commentator Todd Fedoruk quickly realized listeners could hear the exchange. Saunders reportedly laughed it off, assuming Fedoruk was joking.

The Flyers, in a statement, said the organization and their broadcast partner, 97.5 The Fanatic, had issued the suspension and expressed apologies to anyone affected by the comments. The statement did not explicitly name Saunders, but the suspension applies to him.

“This action reflects our commitment to maintaining professionalism and respect in all aspects of our broadcast,” the team said.

Saunders, a longtime voice of the Flyers, has been a fixture in Philadelphia sports media for decades, making the incident all the more notable. The Flyers did not provide further details about the specific content of the comment but stressed that the suspension was intended to uphold standards for both the broadcast team and the organization. The two-game suspension is effective immediately.

Saunders has not issued a public statement. The team and Saunders have not officially stated if they will resume normal broadcast operations following the completion of the suspension.

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.

Bart Winkler: Listeners Were Ignored in Decision To End Infinity Sports Network

BSM Staff
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Bart Winkler: Listeners Were Ignored in Decision To End Infinity Sports Network

Infinity Sports Network host Bart Winkler aired his final episode of The Bart Winkler Show this week, marking the end of his tenure with the network and the closure of the network itself. Winkler used the moment to share candid reflections on the decision and the impact on both staff and listeners.

“I am bitter. I don’t like that. This is going down. I don’t like that I have to do this. I don’t like how it went down,” Winkler said, recounting a meeting earlier this year that left many employees blindsided.

“Couple of months ago, there was a meeting where it was hastily thrown together. And I know behind the scenes things are tough, but it was hastily thrown together. People jumped in the meeting, and we were told it’s ending where there’s three shows coming over. We don’t know everything else that’s going to happen, but there could be opportunities for you guys. So there was still some optimism that maybe things would work out. We knew we wouldn’t all get off the island, but some of us would, well, pretty much everybody in that meeting is stranded on the island now of unemployment,” revealed Winkler.

Earlier this year, Audacy and Cumulus announced the formation of the new Westwood One Sports Network. The announcement served as an extenssion a partnership between Westwood One and Audacy that first began with the launch of CBS Sports Radio in 2012.

Westwood One has handled sales and distribution for the network since its launch. Under this new partnership, Westwood One will handle programming and distribution for most of the syndicated sports lineup. Audacy will continue producing popular BetMGM Network programs moving to the new network. BetMGM will remain a presenting partner and the exclusive sportsbook partner for those programs.

With the Infinity Sports Network and BetMGM Network merging, there was some room for current staff/hosts to join the new network. However, a large portion of those two networks are not an announced part of the new Westwood One Sports Network.

Regarding Winkler, he expressed his frustration which extended beyond the staff to the network’s audience. “What I’m bitter about the most is that I don’t think you guys [listeners] were thought of at all, at all. The listeners of the Infinity Sports Network were an afterthought, not even a thought. You got afterthought means you were at least a thought. I don’t think you were a thought at all in this process,” he said.

Despite the disappointment, Winkler acknowledged the broader challenges facing radio and media executives.

“Radio is not dying, but it will die if the people in charge of radio continue to make decisions about, how can we do this the most cheap, and how can we do this the most quote, unquote, effective,” he said. “What is going to replace us? I’m not entirely sure, and I do sincerely wish them the best.”

Still, Winkler remains puzzled by the decision to shutter the Infinity Sports Network entirely during his final program on the network.

“I still don’t understand why the need for a new network like this is a complete new network. It is just going away. It is a new title belt. The lineage is over. It is a new era in radio, one where CBS Sports Radio and the Infinity Sports Network are dead. So I do not understand why this happening, and for that, I am bitter, and will be for a long time.”

Winkler’s final broadcast served as both a farewell and a pointed critique of the network’s management decisions, reflecting a mix of frustration, disappointment, and lingering questions. As Infinity Sports Network concludes its run, Winkler’s candid remarks underscore the challenges facing digital sports radio networks and the personal toll of sudden closures on those who built them.

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.

Charlamagne Tha God Inks Contract Extension with iHeartMedia

BMM Staff
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Charlamagne Tha God Inks Contract Extension with iHeartMedia

Charlamagne Tha God isn’t going anywhere. He’s signed an extension to remain with iHeartMedia.

As part of the extension, Charlamagne will remain alongside co-hosts DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, and Loren LoRosa on The Breakfast Club, heard from 6-10 AM ET. The show celebrated 15 years on the air earlier this month.

“When it comes to iHeartMedia, gratitude will always be my attitude. They’ve created space for me to grow not just as talent, but as an executive and true partner through The Black Effect Podcast Network,” said Charlamagne Tha God. “To say that I’m thankful is an understatement. iHeart is the biggest and best audio company on the planet and audio is the foundation on which the whole media conglomerate will be built. Podcasting, live events, TV/film and documentaries, the sky is the limit for where we are going; and radio will always be at the core of it. Here’s to a new era of growth, impact, and prosperity.”

“Charlamagne has been a transformative voice in audio, redefining what it means to create content that sparks dialogue and drives cultural change,” said iHeartMedia President and COO Rich Bressler. “Through The Breakfast Club and his growing podcast network, he’s amplified diverse voices, tackled tough conversations, and built platforms that continue to resonate with audiences nationwide. His influence has helped shape the future of audio and we’re energized by what lies ahead and appreciate his ongoing trust in iHeart.”

Charlamagne Tha God and The Breakfast Club were inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2020. The weekend show — Weekends with The Breakfast Club — will also remain in production as a Top 20 countdown as part of the extension.

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.

HOT 97’s Funkmaster Flex: I’m Doing Mornings Beginning in 2029

BMM Staff
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HOT 97’s Funkmaster Flex: I’m Doing Mornings Beginning in 2029

With the departure of Ebro in the Morning on HOT 97, the question remains of who will replace the long-running show in the daypart. Funkmaster Flex is saying it will be him, but not for another three years.

In a series of posts on social media, the HOT 97 host — who filled in on mornings this week following the departure of Ebro Darden, Peter Rosenberg, and Laura Stylez — shared that he’ll be taking over the daypart in 2029.

“We received a great response on me filling in (at) 6 AM this week! I accepted the morning show position for 2029!” Funkmaster Flex wrote. “2029 I will no longer be on at 5 PM!”

He continued by sharing that a new morning show is “2/3 completed.”

One more 1/3 and the listers (sic) will have a new morning show! More details on the way!”

He followed up by stating that he’s not part of the incoming morning show, but that he has agreed to be the next morning show host in 2029.

It has been a year of change for both HOT 97 and Funkmaster Flex. Earlier this year, Flex moved up in the lineup, beginning his show at 5 PM rather than 7 PM. HOT 97 also made changes to its lineup that led to the departure of DJ Enuff and TT Torrez.

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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