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Mountain West Conference Inks New TV Deal with CBS Sports, FOX Sports, The CW

BSM Staff
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Mountain West Conference Inks New TV Deal with CBS Sports, FOX Sports, The CW

The Mountain West Conference has announced a new TV rights deal for the league, with games being broadcast across CBS Sports, FOX Sports, and The CW.

As part of the deal, 15 conference football games will air across CBS, CBS Sports Network, and Paramount+. Additionally, 18 conference men’s basketball and two conference women’s basketball regular season games will air on CBS Sports Network, with the men’s basketball tournament quarterfinals, semifinals, and women’s basketball championship game airing on the cable channel. The men’s basketball tournament championship game will air on CBS.

“The Mountain West has been a valued partner for more than two decades, and we’re proud that CBS Sports will continue to showcase the conference’s marquee games across our platforms, including the MW Basketball Championships,” said CBS Sports Executive Vice President of Programming Dan Weinberg. “This new agreement further elevates our multiplatform college football portfolio and adds even more depth to our robust college basketball lineup.”

FOX Sports will broadcast 12 regular-season football games between FOX, FS1, and FS2. The conference’s football championship game will appear on FOX, while 20 regular-season men’s basketball games will also be made available across the company’s platforms.

“The Mountain West remains a mainstay of FOX Sports’ extensive college sports portfolio, and we are thrilled to highlight the conference’s stellar competition, passionate fan bases, and talented student-athletes,” added FOX Sports Executive Vice President Jordan Bazant. “Highlighted by the Mountain West football championship on FOX, we’re excited to continue elevating the conference on the biggest stages in sports.”

The CW will debut its Mountain West coverage in the 2026-2027 season. It will broadcast 13 regular-season football games, 20 regular-season men’s basketball games, and 15 regular-season women’s basketball games.

“The addition of the Mountain West to the CW Sports lineup strengthens our position as a top destination for premiere college sports,” said The CW Network Senior Vice President of Sports Mike Perman. “We are excited to partner with the conference and bring these universities into homes across the country every week, combining our maximum national reach with our local affiliate impact to showcase these athletic programs and their student-athletes.”

The conference has also signed an exclusive streaming platform deal with Kiswe to broadcast more than 1,000 regular-season and postseason events across the conference’s 21 sports.

“The partnerships with CBS Sports, FOX Sports, The CW Network, and Kiswe represent the broadest media distribution plan in the Conference’s history, delivering unprecedented national linear visibility coupled with a creative and comprehensive digital presence,” said Mountain West Commissioner Gloria Nevarez. “Aligning with three nationally recognized broadcast media partners and marquee streaming platforms powered by Kiswe’s expertise ensures that our student-athletes showcase their athletic excellence, academic achievements, personal stories, and the pride they bring to their universities.”

Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, the Mountain West Conference will consist of Air Force, Hawaii, Nevada, UNLV, New Mexico, San Jose State, UTEP, and Wyoming as full members, while UC Davis and Grand Canyon will be full members outside of football, with Colorado College, Northern Illinois, and Utah Tech serving as affiliate members in designated sports.

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.

Paul Allen Returns to KFAN Following Controversial Comments

BSM Staff
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Paul Allen Returns to KFAN Following Controversial Comments

KFAN midday host Paul Allen returned to the station on Monday, following time off after making controversial comments about “paid protestors” in Minneapolis last month.

To begin 9 to Noon on Monday, Allen addressed the situation by sharing an apology for his comments.

“Before we get started, I just wanted to reiterate my sincerest apologies for my comment I made a couple of Fridays ago,” Allen said. “They missed the mark, and we are committed to being better for you, and keeping the show in light, sports-focused places it’s meant to be.

“So, let’s get back to doing what we’re meant to do: speculating and handling the sports issues at hand.”

On Friday, January 23rd, Allen insinuated that those protesting against ICE enforcement in the Twin Cities were being paid to do so during his KFAN midday show. Those remarks were not well received by local listeners, who have largely objected to the ICE presence in the city.

The morning following Allen’s comments, ICE officials shot and killed protestor Alex Pretti, which only further inflamed the situation. The following Monday, Allen shared a pre-recorded apology to begin his program, calling his statements “a misguided attempt at humor” before revealing that he would be off the air for the week.

It is unclear if Allen was suspended or if he was utilizing paid time off.

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The Ramsey Network Sees 400% Increase in Audience With Spotify Video

BNM Staff
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The Ramsey Network Sees 400% Increase in Audience With Spotify Video

Last April, The Ramsey Network launched a video option inside the Spotify app for its wide array of shows. That has paid off in a multitude of ways.

According to both the Ramsey Network and Spotify, the network’s consumption hours have doubled, and the audience has risen by 400% since launching its video feed on the app last year.

The Ramsey Show — featuring Dave Ramsey and co-hosts Rachel Cruze, George Kamel, Jade Warshaw, Ken Coleman, and Dr. John Delony — surpassed more than 100 million video views on Spotify since launching last April.

The flagship program of the Ramsey Network isn’t the only show to see large upticks since video was launched with Spotify. Dr. John Deloney’s program has seen a 70% increase in monthly consumption hours since April 2025.

“He’s so relational with the caller; he gets down to where they are,” Ramsey Network Executive Vice President Blake Thompson said. “We get so many comments saying, ‘Man, he really cares,’ and it’s because of the expression on his face. You can see how he’s reacting.”

“I don’t think we would have the numbers we do today if we didn’t have video on Spotify,” Thompson added.

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Bari Weiss Hesitant to Cut Ties with New CBS News Contributor Dr. Peter Attia Over Involvement with Jeffrey Epstein

BNM Staff
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Bari Weiss Hesitant to Cut Ties with New CBS News Contributor Dr. Peter Attia Over Involvement with Jeffrey Epstein

Last month, CBS News hired Dr. Peter Attia as a new contributor to the network. His name popped up more than 1,700 times in the latest batch of the Epstein Files. But Bari Weiss doesn’t want to let him go, according to reports.

In emails to Epstein, Attia made lewd remarks about women, and in one instance said it was a shame he “can’t tell a soul” about his relationship with the disgraced financier.

After the conversations came to light, Dr. Peter Attia took to social media to defend himself, saying that his “interactions with Epstein had nothing to do with his sexual abuse or exploitation of anyone.”

With the firestorm, many both inside and outside CBS News, have argued the network needs to cut ties with Attia. However, CBS News Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss has refused to do so, arguing that that would be giving into a mob mentality, according to The Wrap.

“It’s Bari versus everyone right now on Attia,” an individual with knowledge told the outlet, with The Wrap stating that “the sense inside Paramount is that CEO David Ellison will have to make this call.”

Attia was one of 19 new contributors to the network announced in late January. The popularity of his podcast — The Peter Attia Drive — was one of the leading factors in him signing with the network.

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Audacy Names Mitch Rosen, Ryan Castle, Molly Cruz as New Format Vice Presidents

BNM Staff
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Audacy Names Mitch Rosen, Ryan Castle, Molly Cruz as New Format Vice Presidents

After announcing a new leadership structure last week, Audacy has updated its list of format vice presidents for its Sports, Top 40, and Rock divisions.

Mitch Rosen previously served as the Vice President of the BetMGM Network before it shuttered late last year with some of its programming being folded into the new Westwood One Sports network. He now joins Chris Kinard as dual Sports format Vice Presidents for Audacy.

Rock Format Vice President Ryan Castle programs and is heard on both mainstream rock 99.9 KISW in Seattle and classic rock 92.3 KOGN in Portland.

Molly Cruz — who will serve as the Top 40 Format VP — serves as the Brand Manager for 99.1 The Mix and 103.7 KISS-FM in Milwaukee, as well as at B96 in Chicago.

The full list of Audacy Format Vice Presidents is below:

Adult Contemporary: Nikki Nite
All News: Jennifer Seelig
Alternative: Kevin Weatherly
Classic Hits: Chris Ebbott
Country: Tim Roberts
Hot AC: Steve Salhany
News/Talk: Drew Anderssen
Rock: Ryan Castle
Spanish: Jimmy Gonzalez
Sports: Chris Kinard and Mitch Rosen
Top 40: Molly Cruz
Urban Contemporary: Mike Street
Urban AC and Throwbacks: Skip Dillard

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.

Glenn Beck: I’m in the Epstein Files For All the Right Reasons

BNM Staff
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Glenn Beck: I’m in the Epstein Files For All the Right Reasons

Glenn Beck is in the Epstein Files. And he’s proud of that fact.

On Monday, Beck shared with his audience that he was included in the Epstein Files. But not for nefarious reasons.

An email from Alice Jacobs to Jeffrey Epstein in 2009 included a mention of Beck.

“I just googled where I’m headed right now to meet some old friends, and it occurred to me that a new friend and fellow eccentric is right around the corner from where I’m visiting,” Jacobs wrote. “I might be able to stop by and say hello if you’re around later this afternoon. Would be a quick visit, but would be a welcome respite from the Fox News/Glenn Beck disciples that I have to visit today. They are lovely aside from their politics. Cheers, Alice.”

Beck took solace in noting that he’s in the files due to the aversion of those associated with Epstein.

“I get a call, ‘Glenn, you’re in the Epstein Files,’ and I’m thinking to myself, ‘That’s not possible,'” Beck said.

After reading the email in full, he said he didn’t know what Epstein’s reply, which said there were “other crazies here,” meant. Glenn Beck continued by sharing how proud he was of his inclusion in the files.

“This is the best way to be in the Epstein Files. Where Jeffrey and his friends are like ‘I hate Glenn Beck and I don’t like people who like Glenn Beck.’ So I am proudly in the Epstein Files. I feel better.”

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Don Lemon Tells Jimmy Kimmel: The Trump Administration Wanted to Instill Fear in Other Journalists By Arresting Me

BNM Staff
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Don Lemon Tells Jimmy Kimmel: The Trump Administration Wanted to Instill Fear in Other Journalists By Arresting Me

Don Lemon made an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Monday evening, and shared some insight into how he’s feeling after being arrested last week.

During the discussion, Lemon recounted being confused as FBI agents arrested him in a Los Angeles hotel for his role in a Minnesota church protest. The Department of Justice has argued Lemon, and other protestors, broke the FACE Act, which prohibits the disruption of religious services.

Lemon told Kimmel that his lawyers had contacted federal authorities and offered to turn himself in. However, he claimed they received no response until after he was arrested.

Kimmel called the situation a waste of resources, which Don Lemon agreed with.

“Well, you’re right about more than just a waste of resources,” said Lemon. “They want that. They want to embarrass you, they want to intimidate you, and they want to instill fear. So that’s why they did it that way.”

When asked how he was processing the situation, Don Lemon shared that he was unsure.

“I don’t know – that’s an honest answer,” Lemon said. “I’m ok. I’m not going to let them steal my joy. But this is very serious. These are federal criminal charges.”

Don Lemon has continually asserted that he was not a protester, but rather serving as a journalist covering the event.

His attorney — Abbe Lowell — has shared that he will defend himself to the fullest extent possible.

“This unprecedented attack on the First Amendment and transparent attempt to distract attention from the many crises facing this administration will not stand,” Lowell said in the aftermath of Lemon’s arrest last week. “Don will fight these charges vigorously and thoroughly in court.”

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Josh D’Amaro to Succeed Bob Iger as Disney CEO

BNM Staff
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Josh D’Amaro to Succeed Bob Iger as Disney CEO

Disney has announced it is appointing Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro to succeed Bob Iger as the CEO of the company next month.

Beginning on Wednesday, March 18th, Iger will officially retire and D’Amaro will take over the role of CEO.

D’Amaro has worked at the company for 28 years. During his tenure, he’s led the largest segment of the company’s business, totalling more than $36 billion in 2025 and overseeing 185,000 worldwide employees.

He will succeed Iger, who returned to the company in 2022 after previously stepping away as its chief executive. Bob Iger will continue to serve as a senior advisor to Josh D’Amaro and work as a member of the Disney board until he retires from the company on December 31st, 2026.

“I am immensely grateful to the Board for entrusting me with leading a company that means so much to me and millions around the world,” said D’Amaro. “Disney’s strength has always come from our people and the creative excellence that defines our stories and experiences. There is no limit to what Disney can achieve, and I am excited to work with our teams across the company and brilliant creative partners to honor Disney’s remarkable legacy while continuing to innovate, grow, and deliver exceptional value for our consumers and shareholders. I also want to express my gratitude to Bob Iger for his generous mentorship, his friendship, and the profound impact of his leadership.”

“Josh D’Amaro is an exceptional leader and the right person to become our next CEO,” added current Disney CEO Robert A. Iger. “He has an instinctive appreciation of the Disney brand, and a deep understanding of what resonates with our audiences, paired with the rigor and attention to detail required to deliver some of our most ambitious projects. His ability to combine creativity with operational excellence is exemplary and I am thrilled for Josh and the company.”

The 54-year-old D’Amaro has served as the Chairman of Disney Experiences since 2020.

“Josh D’Amaro possesses that rare combination of inspiring leadership and innovation, a keen eye for strategic growth opportunities, and a deep passion for the Disney brand and its people – all of which make him the right person to take the helm as Disney’s next CEO,” said Walt Disney Company Board of Directors Chair James Gorman. “Throughout this search process, Josh has demonstrated a strong vision for the company’s future and a deep understanding of the creative spirit that makes Disney unique in an ever-changing marketplace.

“He has an outstanding record of business achievement, collaborating with some of the biggest names in entertainment to bring their stories to life in our parks, showcasing the power of combining Disney storytelling with cutting-edge technology,” said Gorman. “The Board believes he is exceptionally well prepared to guide this global company forward to serve our consumers around the world and create long-term value for shareholders.”

Furthermore, Dana Walden, who serves as the co-chair of Disney Entertainment, has been named President and Chief Creative Officer of The Walt Disney Company. Walden — who becomes the first person to take the newly created role — will report directly to D’Amaro.

“Dana Walden is an excellent leader who commands tremendous respect from the creative community,” said Iger. “Given that creativity is at the heart of everything Disney does, she is a wonderful choice to serve in this new leadership role. In the years since Dana joined Disney, she has accumulated great knowledge about the many facets of our businesses and brands, and is very well prepared to be President and Chief Creative Officer.”

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Adam Schein Adding YouTube Show with New York Post/California Post

BSM Staff
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Adam Schein Adding YouTube Show with New York Post/California Post

As the California Post comes to fruition as part of the New York Post, Adam Schein is adding a YouTube show with the brand.

Beginning on Monday, March 2nd, Schein will begin hosting a new digital show on YouTube for the brand from the Post’s New York studios.

Schein will continue to host his SiriusXM show on Mad Dog Sports Radio, in addition to continuing his work for the NFL on CBS.

In a post on social media, Adam Schein confirmed the news and shared his excitement for the opportunity.

“Can’t wait to bring my passion, opinions to a hard hitting, iconic brand like the Post!” he wrote.

The news of Schein’s new program with the New York Post and California Post comes on the heels of his earning sixth place on the Barrett Media Top 20 National Sports Radio Shows of 2025 earlier this week.

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.

Barrett Media’s Top 20 Major Market Sports Radio Morning Shows of 2025

Jason Barrett
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Barrett Media’s Top 20 Major Market Sports Radio Morning Shows of 2025

Day two of Barrett Media’s Top 20 series continues with a look at the top 20 Major Market Sports Radio Morning Shows of 2025. Stay tuned to this website, our newsletters and X, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok, and/or Instagram to learn the results for the remainder of this series. Once the Top 20 is done, I will record a video discussing what stood out from this year’s process. That video will be posted on the Barrett Media YouTube page so be sure to subscribe to be notified once the video goes live.

As you review these results, please remember that they represent the collective feedback shared by our industry voters. Barrett Media does not vote in this process. Our role is to assemble the group, collect the votes, and present the information.

Important Information

#1 – These results are based on 2025’s performance. 2026 changes have no effect on the voting.

#2 – We ask our voters to supply photos and logos to avoid headaches. Some comply, but most don’t. It forces us to spend a lot of time digging for images to highlight everyone. For that reason, there are no photo changes unless it involves a mistake. Thanks in advance for understanding.

#3 – Our Major Market executive panel consists of thirty six (36) program directors and corporate executives from radio’s top broadcasting companies. They include Audacy, iHeart, Cumulus, Beasley, Good Karma Brands, Bonneville, SiriusXM, ESPN Radio, FOX Sports Radio, Radio One, and a bunch of independently owned and operated radio stations. Our voting group is large because we want feedback from every part of the country. We also do that to assure the results don’t favor any one media group.

#4 – The criteria for our voters included the ear test, originality, multi-platform impact, ratings success, clearance (national shows) and industry buzz. Keep in mind, our voters live in different cities, work for different companies, have different tastes, and value certain factors higher than others. This is not a perfect system but it’s one we feel good about using to showcase the industry’s best.

#5 – A total of 30 shows were eligible for voting consideration in the Major Market Sports Radio Morning Shows category.

And the Winner Is…

For the third straight year and the fifth time total, the voters selected Boomer & Gio as the top Major Market Sports Radio Morning Show of 2025. The WFAN morning team finished in front of Toucher & Hardy to earn the win. Congrats Boomer, Gregg, Jerry, Al and Eddie on the well deserved recognition.

I want to thank Dylan Barrett for creating the artwork, and each voter who participated in the process. Now without further delay, here are Barrett Media’s Top 20 Major Market Sports Radio Morning Shows of 2025.

Additional Notes:

  • Boomer & Gio finished seventy two (72) points ahead of Toucher & Hardy to score the first-place finish. WFAN’s morning show recorded a category best fifteen (15) first place votes.
  • Spots 21-25 belonged to Moser, Lombardi & Kane, Murph & Markus, Payne & Pendergast, Joe Rose, and The Locker Room.
  • The closest contest saw The Greg Hill Show edge Mully & Haugh by two (2) points.
  • Of the 30 shows to appear on submitted ballots, seven (7) received at least one 1st place vote.

BNM Top 20 of 2025 Remaining Schedule:

  • Wednesday February 4 = BM Top 20 Major/Mid Market Sports Radio Midday Shows of 2025
  • Thursday February 5 = BM Top 20 Major/Mid Market Sports Radio Afternoon Shows of 2025
  • Friday February 6 = BM Top 20 Major/Mid Market Sports Radio Program Directors of 2025
  • Monday February 9 = BSM Top 20 Major/Mid Market Sports Radio Stations of 2025

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

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