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Charles Barkley Says Final Season On Inside the NBA Will Be A “Celebration”

John Mamola
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Charles Barkley Says Final Season On Inside the NBA Will Be A “Celebration”

Charles Barkley confirmed this upcoming season will be his last on Inside the NBA. Moreover, he plans to step back from public life afterward.

What We Know: Barkley made the announcement during an appearance with WFSA in Alabama. He joined Inside the NBA in 2000, a decade after Ernie Johnson became host. Originally, Barkley planned to retire at age 60. Instead, he stayed through the show’s move from TNT to ESPN last season. Barkley confirmed his earlier statements made on The Bill Simmons Podcast saying that he would be on the program as long as Ernie Johnson was host.

What They Said: (All quotes from WFSA):

Charles Barkley confirms this will be his last year on Inside the NBA: “I’m looking forward to this last year. TV has been great to me. I’m going to take a step back from public life after this year. It’s been a great run. Been a great journey. I thank everybody for the support all these years.”

Charles Barkley feels this season will be more a celebration than anything: “I’ll be 64 years old. Ernie [Johnson] asked me to stay a couple more years, and last year was one, this year is two. I feel really good. This is more like a celebration. I’ve had the greatest life a person can have.”

What Remains Unclear: While Barkley has confirmed his intentions, Johnson has not publicly confirmed whether he will also leave. Meanwhile, it remains unclear whether Inside the NBA continues beyond this season.

What It Means: For more than two decades, Barkley’s unfiltered takes have defined the show’s personality. Consequently, his exit will reshape ESPN’s NBA studio coverage. Still, viewers get one final season with the current foursome intact. In the end, Barkley plans to go out celebrating rather than mourning.

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Minnesota Wild Honor NHL Reporter Jessi Pierce With New Annual Media Award

John Mamola
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0
Minnesota Wild Honor NHL Reporter Jessi Pierce With New Annual Media Award

The Minnesota Wild and its local beat reporters have launched a new annual media award. The Jessi Pierce Media Beauty Award honors the late hockey reporter and her three children.

What We Know: Pierce passed away in March of this year along with her three children and a family pet in a house fire in suburban Minnesota. The award also honors the memory of Pierce and her three children, Hudson, Cayden, and Avery. Local media members will vote on the honor each year. The winner will be the Wild player who best shows professionalism, accessibility, and respect toward reporters.

What They Said: Bill Guerin, Minnesota Wild President of Hockey Operations and General Manager: “This award represents something much bigger than hockey. It honors the memory of Jessi and her children, and the positive impact she had on everyone she worked with. The warmth, kindness, and generosity she brought to the rink left a lasting impression on our hockey community. We are honored to carry her legacy forward by recognizing those who embody that same spirit.”

Statement On Behalf Of Minnesota Wild Beat Reporters: “Jessi always showed up to the rink eager and excited. Engaging everyone with her infectious smile and passion for the sport. She had a knack for asking questions and cultivating stories because she put players and coaches at ease with her curiosity and genuine interest. We feel her absence daily. This award will be a reminder of the rapport she had that is essential to covering the Wild and keeping the State of Hockey informed. Which she loved doing.”

What Remains Unclear: The team has not announced when it will name the first recipient after the season.

What It Means: Ultimately, the award spotlights the working relationship between players and the press. In addition, Pierce built that rapport through her coverage of the Wild, the Minnesota Frost, and hockey at all levels. As a result, her name will now live on through players who treat the media with the same respect she showed them. Moreover, for the state of hockey, that legacy carries real weight.

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Red Apple Audio Networks Launching Michael Cohen’s Weekend Show Into National Syndication

Garrett Searight
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0
Red Apple Audio Networks Launching Michael Cohen’s Weekend Show Into National Syndication

Michael Cohen is taking his weekend radio show national through Red Apple Audio Networks. The program launched earlier this summer on 77 WABC and now targets a November 1st syndication debut.

What We Know: When You Know, You Know… will join the national lineup of programs offered by Red Apple Audio Networks. The weekend show features Michael Cohen, who previously worked for President Donald Trump and has discussed politics and current events on 77 WABC. Red Apple Audio Networks plans to make the program available to stations nationwide beginning November 1st. The expansion gives affiliates another weekend talk option as the network builds its syndicated programming lineup. Meanwhile, Cohen will continue his association with 77 WABC as the show moves into national distribution.

What They Said: “Michael worked for the President for over a decade and has a unique perspective on how Trump thinks when we do opinion pieces. When You Know,You Know… is an opportunity for stations to add a distinctive personality and compelling content that hyper-engages listeners and attracts advertisers.” — 77 WABC owner John Catsimatidis

“New York has heard what happens when I get behind the microphone. Now it’s time for the rest of America. Taking When You Know,You Know… national gives me the opportunity to share the truth about what’s really going on behind the headlines with listeners in markets all across the US.” — Michael Cohen

“Michael has a way of telling stories that pulls listeners into the conversation. He has a one-of-a-kind insider’s perspective from being in the room where the big stories happen. He has an uncanny knack of knowing exactly what’s going on and what’s coming next.” — Red Apple Media President

What Remains Unclear: Red Apple Audio Networks hasn’t announced which stations will carry When You Know, You Know… when national syndication begins. The network also hasn’t detailed the show’s full affiliate schedule, clearance plans, or additional markets ahead of the November 1st target.

What It Means: The national rollout gives Cohen a larger platform for his weekend commentary and expands Red Apple Audio Networks’ programming offerings. Additionally, the launch provides stations with another personality-driven talk program for weekend schedules. Red Apple Audio Networks will now have the opportunity to build the show’s affiliate footprint beyond its New York launch.

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Salt Air Broadcasting Buys CCB Media in Cape Cod Deal

David Hill
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Salt Air Broadcasting Buys CCB Media in Cape Cod Deal

Salt Air Broadcasting is buying the heritage radio stations of CCB Media. The deal makes Salt Air the largest radio group on Cape Cod.

What We Know: Salt Air will add 99.9 The Q, Cape Country 104 and Ocean 104.7 to its lineup. Those stations join Cape Cod’s X on 102.3, 106.5 and 1240 AM, the Cape’s first licensed station. In addition, the group plans a Classical HD channel operating under a non-profit model. Pending FCC approval, the broadcast transition happens November 30, with headquarters staying in Brewster.

What They Said: Owner and CEO Gary Hanna, a longtime Brewster resident, frames the deal around hyper-local radio. “We still strongly believe in the power of local radio, particularly here on Cape Cod,” Hanna said. Similarly, CCB Media owner Greg Bone wanted a local buyer after 48 years serving the Cape. “We have found the best local home for our stations,” Bone said.

What Remains Unclear: However, the company hasn’t said when the Classical HD channel launches or which signal will carry it. Likewise, there’s no word on whether programming or on-air lineups will change. Also, Salt Air hasn’t disclosed a purchase price. Finally, Hanna talks about “bringing back local voices,” yet the company hasn’t named any new on-air hires.

What It Means: Ultimately, Cape Cod’s biggest radio group will answer to owners who live there. Salt Air keeps CCB’s sales and back-office staff, adds sellers and continues the annual November food drives. Meanwhile, CapeCod.com becomes a digital hub for local news, dining, events and tourism. Notably, the classical channel arrives months after CCB sold Cape Classical 107.5 to K-Love.

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.

FOX Sports South Florida Re-Brands With HomeTeam Revival In Afternoon Drive

John Mamola
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0
FOX Sports South Florida Re-Brands With HomeTeam Revival In Afternoon Drive

Josh Cohen and Ken LaVicka are rebranding their afternoon program on FOX Sports South Florida. Josh Cohen & The HomeTeam with KLV returns to the airwaves effective immediately weekdays at 5 p.m. on FOX Sports South Florida.

What We Know: The HomeTeam debuted in September 1999 on Real Radio WZZR/WCZR as part of the FM Hot Talk format. From there, it moved to ESPN 106.3 in 2013, and FAU voice Ken LaVicka joined as co-host in 2015. Then, in January, the duo returned to the airwaves on FOX Sports South Florida as JC & Ken. Now, they are reviving the HomeTeam brand for radio and on-demand listeners alike.

What They Said: Josh Cohen: “The HomeTeam is comfort food for the ear-holes and souls of three generations of South Floridians who love sarcasm, pop culture, comedy, stupidity, sports and stories, and not necessarily in that order. This show is available everywhere, anytime you want: on your phone, in your car, on your kitchen Alexa. It’s a podcast that also airs live at 5 p.m. on the radio, or on demand on your devices. Old school or new school, we got you. It’s the best of all worlds in this new age of media.”

What Remains Unclear: With the rebrand, it’s unknown if the program will debut any new programming features or weekly contributors. It’s also unknown the reasoning exactly why the change for the rebrand from JC & Ken.

What It Means: Ultimately, the move puts a brand with more than 25 years of South Florida history back on the air. Moreover, familiar branding could help FOX Sports South Florida win back longtime listeners in afternoon drive. At the same time, the podcast-first approach reflects how local sports talk now reaches audiences. For now, listeners can hear it on 640 AM, 103.1 FM HD2 and the station’s app.

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.

Bob Chapek: Bob Iger Worked Against Me During My Time as Disney CEO

Garrett Searight
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0
Bob Chapek: Bob Iger Worked Against Me During My Time as Disney CEO

Bob Chapek says Bob Iger began reassuming control of Disney during the COVID-19 pandemic without consulting him. Chapek detailed the power struggle during a CNBC Squawk Box interview ahead of his memoir’s release.

What We Know: Chapek became Disney CEO in February 2020, shortly before the pandemic disrupted the company’s theme parks, cruise ships, film production, and other operations. Iger remained executive chairman after Chapek took over and later returned as CEO in November 2022. Chapek said Iger gradually reasserted control without discussing it with him, while Chapek raised concerns about Iger with Disney’s board during his tenure.

What They Said: “When I started hearing about lunches that he had and dinners that he had where he was absolutely trashing me, and I’d hear it two, three times in the same week, the same bullet points, the same talking points, I was like, ‘I’ve got a problem.’ … “It would have been great if, like other CEOs, he acted as a steward of my new role. It would have been one thing if he was neutral, but to be actually working against me, actively, I thought was just unbelievable.” -Bob Chapek

What Remains Unclear: Chapek’s account represents his perspective on the events that preceded his November 2022 removal. Iger has not publicly addressed every allegation Chapek makes in his memoir, leaving some details of their internal relationship disputed or unresolved.

What It Means: Chapek’s comments add to his explanation for why his tenure ended less than three years after he became CEO. Meanwhile, Behind the Castle Walls: My Thirty Years at the Happiest Place on Earth debuts Tuesday, September 29th, giving Chapek a broader platform to detail his version of the Disney leadership transition.

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Beasley Media Group Announces Multi-Year Agreement With Vegas Golden Knights

John Mamola
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0
Beasley Media Group Announces Multi-Year Agreement With Vegas Golden Knights

Beasley Media Group is now the official year-round audio partner of the Vegas Golden Knights. The multiyear deal brings English and Spanish game broadcasts to Beasley’s Las Vegas stations.

What We Know: Under the agreement, X 107.9 serves as the English-language flagship, while 105.7 Maxima becomes the Spanish-language home. Additionally, Dan D’Uva and Gary Lawless return for a tenth season alongside host Doug Lattuca. Likewise, Jesus Lopez and Alex Romo return as the Spanish-language voices on Maxima. Meanwhile, Daren Millard hosts The VGK Insider Show weekdays from 5 to 6 p.m. PT, effective immediately.

What They Said: John Penhollow, President of Business Operations for the Vegas Golden Knights: “We’re excited to partner with Beasley Media Group as we continue to advance our brand and connect with more fans throughout Las Vegas and Southern Nevada. With 107.9 X as our flagship station and 105.7 Maxima serving as our Spanish-language home, we’ll be able to reach fans across the region through our radio broadcasts. This partnership gives us a great opportunity to connect with our fans in new and meaningful ways throughout the year. Not just on game days. And it will broaden the connection to the Golden Knights and the future stars with the Silver Knights.”

Kevin LeGrett, chief business officer at Beasley Media Group: “Las Vegas is the sports and entertainment capital of the world, and the Golden Knights are the team that made it so. Beasley’s four Las Vegas stations reach every corner of this valley, and now every one of them carries the team — with X 107.9 as the home of the Golden Knights and Máxima as their Spanish-language home.”

What Remains Unclear: However, neither side disclosed the length or financial terms of the multiyear deal. Similarly, the announcement does not list the affiliates in the Golden Knights’ radio network.

What It Means: Ultimately, the deal expands Beasley’s live sports footprint and serves VGK fans in two languages year-round. The announcement also ends the team’s long standing media partnership with Lotus Broadcasting. In addition to the NHL club, the Henderson Silver Knights will also air all 72 regular-season games on X 107.9 and 96.3 KKLZ-HD2. Brian McCormack and Darren Eliot will call those games, including the Calder Cup Playoffs.

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Megyn Kelly: Bari Weiss Can’t Turn CBS News Around, There’s No Hope for CNN

Garrett Searight
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0
Megyn Kelly: Bari Weiss Can’t Turn CBS News Around, There’s No Hope for CNN

Megyn Kelly questioned whether Bari Weiss can successfully oversee CNN after Paramount Skydance’s Warner Bros. Discovery deal. Kelly said the network faces broader challenges as linear television continues to decline.

What We Know: Kelly made the comments during an appearance on Next Up with Mark Halperin on her SiriusXM channel. Her remarks came after Paramount Skydance, the parent company of CBS News, reached a settlement with 12 states that cleared a major obstacle to its $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, CNN’s parent company. The agreement calls for an independent editorial oversight board covering CNN and CBS News, while the merger is expected to close in the coming weeks.

What They Said: “With all due respect, I don’t think anyone could turn CBS around, but somebody with no television experience really can’t turn CBS around. Let’s face it, CBS’s day has come and gone. They had their day in the sun. They were huge. And they had enormous numbers. The country has moved past linear television. It’s in its last throes. That’s fine. It’s not completely done, but it’s in its last throes. I just don’t know why you’d want the job, right? The numbers are only going one direction, and you’re just going to be the last person blamed. I don’t understand the whole effort. I think it’s spinning wheels, it’s embarrassing, it’s brand-damaging, and it’s a pointless waste of time.

“You actually do have to approach it with at least the semblance of a heart, which they didn’t get over there. They got a public black eye, and they got a black eye within the company, and she couldn’t afford it. They already disliked her and didn’t trust her. It’s just not going well. It’s not being managed well.” -Megyn Kelly

What Remains Unclear: The merger still faces final steps before Paramount Skydance assumes control of Warner Bros. Discovery. Meanwhile, it remains unclear how Weiss would oversee CNN alongside CBS News and how the companies would structure their shared editorial leadership.

What It Means: Megyn Kelly’s remarks add another media-industry reaction to the pending combination of CBS News and CNN. However, the companies’ new ownership structure and oversight requirements will determine how much operational and editorial control Weiss ultimately has over CNN.

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.

K95.3 Hands Mornings to Carletta Blake, Drops Bobby Bones

David Hill
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15
K95.3 Hands Mornings to Carletta Blake, Drops Bobby Bones

Local mornings are back in Richmond. SummitMedia Country K95.3 WKHK debuted Carletta Blake in mornings today.

What We Know: Blake, the station’s Brand Manager, has handled afternoons since joining K95.3 in October 2025. Now, “Carletta in the Morning” replaces Premiere Networks’ “The Bobby Bones Show,” which aired on the station for eight years. Meanwhile, Q103.1 WQNU Louisville morning host Brent “Dingo” Crank picks up K95.3 afternoons. He’ll also continue afternoons on 104.7 WZZK Birmingham and WCYQ Knoxville.

What They Said: Blake shared the news in a Facebook video, calling morning radio her lifelong dream. She admitted her goals shifted over time, yet mornings became reality in 2020. “I didn’t think it would probably ever happen again, but as the saying goes, God knew better,” Blake said. Now, she added, “we’re bringing local mornings back to Central Virginia!”

What Remains Unclear: However, SummitMedia hasn’t announced whether anyone will join Blake on the new morning show. Additionally, the company hasn’t said if “The Bobby Bones Show” will find another Richmond home. Likewise, it’s unknown how much local Central Virginia content Crank’s afternoon shift will carry.

What It Means: Ultimately, K95.3 is trading a national show for a local voice in its most important daypart. That’s a notable bet while many stations lean harder on syndication. Furthermore, Blake brings morning experience from 99.5 WGAR Cleveland, plus programming stints at B93.9 WNCB Raleigh and 95.1 WRNS Kinston. As a result, Richmond listeners wake up with a host who lives in their community.

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.

Fox News Announces New Podcast ‘The Girls’ Featuring Rotating Female Hosts

Garrett Searight
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0
Fox News Announces New Podcast ‘The Girls’ Featuring Rotating Female Hosts

Fox News is expanding its podcast lineup with a new personality-driven series featuring several prominent female voices. The Girls will bring together a rotating cast for conversations spanning politics, pop culture, relationships, and more.

What We Know: The Girls will debut October 1st and release new episodes every Thursday across Fox News Digital, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Each episode will feature a rotating group of co-hosts in a free-flowing format covering topics including politics, pop culture, money, marriage, parenting, relationships, and careers.

The premiere will feature Rachel Campos-Duffy, Harris Faulkner, Kat Timpf, Melissa DeRosa, and former ESPN host Samantha Ponder. Campos-Duffy co-hosts FOX & Friends Weekend, while Faulkner anchors The Faulkner Focus and co-hosts Outnumbered. Timpf appears on Gutfeld!, and DeRosa previously served in senior roles for former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo. Meanwhile, Ponder previously hosted ESPN’s Sunday NFL Countdown.

What They Said: “The Girls is a natural addition to our growing podcast portfolio, and we’re thrilled to continue expanding our slate of distinctive shows that complement our existing lineup while creating new opportunities for our audience to engage with our content.” — Fox News Digital New Media President Porter Berry

“We’re excited to deliver a no-holds-barred format that captures the authenticity and perspectives of the many dynamic women of FOX News Media and beyond.” — Fox News Executive Vice President of Morning Programming & Program Development Megan Albano

What Remains Unclear: Fox News hasn’t announced the full roster of women who will participate in future episodes or how frequently individual co-hosts will return. The network also hasn’t detailed whether The Girls will feature recurring segments or guests beyond its rotating cast.

What It Means: The podcast expands Fox News Media’s new media division, which already includes Hang Out with Sean Hannity, Ruthless, Will Cain Country, Planet Tyrus, and The Riley Gaines Show. The Girls gives the network another personality-driven format designed for audiences beyond its traditional television programming.

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