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How Todd Starnes is Blending Memphis Culture Into National Radio

Krystina Alarcon Carroll
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How Todd Starnes is Blending Memphis Culture Into National Radio

Todd Starnes is looking at one big, beautiful feature, all thanks to President Donald Trump.

“I think the future looks really good,” Starnes said. “We are watching a generation of young Americans who are actually more conservative, and I think when I say conservative, I think more focused on those traditional American values from the 1940s and 1950s.”

Values like getting married, starting families, and going back to church are what Starnes believes build a successful country. It is this anticipated success that inspired his new book, The Golden Age: How Trump Saved America.

“One of the things that I’m really excited about in my book is that there is a lot of content that was created during my national radio show. There are also surveys being done in the industry showing that younger Americans are now embracing radio again, so what is old is new again, and I think that’s exciting,” Starnes enthused.

On his show, Starnes invites everyone to join him on his big Memphis porch. “There are a lot of folks out there that say you should not take calls from listeners, and I just do not ascribe to that philosophy. I look at my radio program as a giant front porch.” He added, “We love having those conversations. Folks come and sit in a rocking chair, and we debate the big issues of the day.”

Building Community Through Open Debate

And by everyone, he literally means everyone. “I have to give credit to my good friend, Lars Larson, because I stole this idea from Lars. Anybody who objects to me, they go right to the top of the list,” Starnes boasted. “We love the debate, but it has to be done in a way that’s not ugly, but is entertaining.”

Starnes, who has won an Associated Press Mark Twain Award for Storytelling, described his noon-3 p.m. ET show as “a little different, and it’s a little quirky, and we embrace the weirdness of my show.” He didn’t want to build a community by “screaming or lecturing” the audience for hours.

In fact, it’s Starnes’ experience that has led him to believe the most important thing a radio host can do is listen. “We’re so busy talking that we also need to listen to what our guests are saying and what our callers are saying, because you never know when that might turn the conversation in a different direction.”

Bringing Memphis Culture to the Airwaves

Instead of the typical New York/Los Angeles coastal experience, Starnes broadcasts from his hometown, which allows culture from inside the country to infiltrate the airwaves.

“One day I was interviewing President Donald Trump, and then that afternoon I was judging the great Memphis tomato contest at the Agra Center,” Starnes chortled. “Those are the extremes of my life. So we try to incorporate a lot of that into our program.”

By showcasing Memphis’ flavor, Starnes shows his audience the “home of the blues” has a lot more to offer than walking around in your blue suede shoes. “We have great barbecue here, and we just have good people. Memphis leads the nation in philanthropy.”

He went on to boast, “Memphis hosts the PGA FedEx St. Jude Classic, and for the whole week, we’ll do our show from the golf course.” His show also goes live in Graceland for Elvis Week, as well as other events.

From National Host to Station Owner

In many ways, Starnes is a typical, well-known conservative radio host — with a great show, several books to his name, and many awards. But one of his great achievements is also one he brings up humbly and casually in conversation: “When I left Fox in 2019, I actually purchased KWAM, the news radio station. So in addition to being a national radio host and an author, I also own a news radio station, which has just a storied legacy in the musical side of the dial, having employed great musical artists like Johnny Cash and B.B. King.”

KWAM is also one of the many radio stations whose signal was picked up on his childhood transistor radio.

“My grandfather gave me a transistor radio for Christmas one year. This was back in the 1970s. And I remember staying up late at night, and I would tune in that radio,” Starnes recalled. “For me, that was it. I became an immediate radio nerd, and I just love radio, but I also love writing. When I was in high school, I worked part-time at our local radio station, and then I worked part-time at our local newspaper.”

Advice for Aspiring Broadcasters

Starnes believes both writing and radio share a key element some are missing in today’s industry. “I think it’s important in our industry that we be able to tell stories. And I think it is becoming a lost art form in what we do. And so we work really hard at telling stories on our national radio show.”

So for those looking to follow in his footsteps, Starnes says, “My recommendation is to go and get involved. Even if you’re going to volunteer, go and knock on the door of your local radio station and get involved.”

He gave a great example of a go-getter now on his team. “We have a kid who showed up at one of our remotes on KWAM, and he loves doing video and digital, and asked if he could come by the radio station. And we said, ‘Sure.’ We ended up hiring that kid, and now he’s doing a lot of our digital work.”

“It’s really about getting involved, and also understanding that you’ve got to live life too. A lot of young people just want to jump right in and say, ‘Okay, I can be a talk radio host.’ And you probably can, but you also need to have life experience under your belt too,” he added. “I always encourage our team to get out there, live life, have fun, and enjoy it. That way, I think it makes you a better broadcaster.”

The Business and Community Side of Ownership

For those thinking bigger and wanting to own their own station, he says there’s a lot of trust and hard work involved. “You have to wear many hats when you own a radio station, and it’s tough, but it’s fun.”

He added, “For me, this was a tough thing. I want to be able to do everything, but you’ve got to be willing to trust your staff to do the work. I have a great staff, and they do a terrific job, and that’s an important thing — have good, solid staff.”

The other essential part of owning a radio station is making good connections.

“Jason Barrett, stepping out and hosting those industry events — those things are more than just speaking engagements. That’s building community. And we just need so much of that in the radio industry. The conglomerates have really hurt it. So it’s really a blessing to be able to have Summits like Jason just hosted, where people can come together and fellowship. Again, it’s that whole front porch concept, but I’m really thankful for that.”

Zelus Media Sells Phoenix Hot AC Station for $1.5M

David Hill
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Zelus Media Sells Phoenix Hot AC Station for $1.5M

Zelus Media is selling Hot AC KMVA in the Phoenix market. Good News Broadcasting Network is acquiring the station for $1.5 million.

What We Know: Zelus Media has agreed to sell Hot 97.5 KMVA Dewey-Humboldt/Phoenix, AZ to Good News Broadcasting Network for $1.5 million. The buyer is affiliated with the Seventh Day Adventist Church and currently owns four non-commercial stations in Arizona and New Mexico. All four carry programming from the Radio74 Internationale network. Good News Broadcasting also operates LPTV stations across Arizona, California, and Washington.

What’s at Stake: This deal removes a commercial Hot AC signal from the Phoenix market. Good News Broadcasting will likely flip the format to religious programming, consistent with its existing portfolio. The buyer’s stations — 89.3 KJPN Payson, 91.9 KDHP Pinon, 89.5 KDHH Kaibito, and CP 90.9 KDHG Gallup — all reflect a faith-based mission. The $1.5 million price tag signals a modest but strategic acquisition for the nonprofit buyer.

What Remains Unclear: Zelus will retain the KMVA call letters and the station’s intellectual property, but the specifics of that arrangement remain undefined. It’s also unclear how Good News plans to integrate KMVA into its programming network. A timeline for format transition has not yet been announced.

What It Means: Zelus Media isn’t leaving Phoenix — it’s restructuring. The company retains simulcaster 103.9 KZON, Oldies “The Wow Factor” 95.1 KOAI, Hip Hop “Power 98.3” KKFR, AAA “94.9 The Zone” K235CB, and Spanish AC “Xtasis 96.1” K242BQ. Together, those five signals keep Zelus competitive across multiple formats. This sale appears to be about portfolio optimization, not retreat.

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.

Brady Leaves SiriusXM Pulse For Hits 1 Afternoons

David Hill
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Brady Leaves SiriusXM Pulse For Hits 1 Afternoons

SiriusXM afternoon host Brady is moving channels. After three years on The Pulse, he’s heading to Hits 1 in the same 5-10pm ET timeslot.

What We Know: Brady officially transitions from SiriusXM’s The Pulse (channel 5) to Hits 1, taking over afternoons from Gaby Symon. His new slot runs weekdays from 5-10pm Eastern, 2-7pm Pacific. Before SiriusXM, Brady hosted afternoons at Audacy’s Alternative stations in New York, Detroit, and Seattle. He also has stints at iHeart’s Z100, Power 93.3 Seattle, Live 95.5 Portland, and Z96.5 Lafayette on his resume.

What They Said: Brady addressed the move directly on Instagram, saying, “After 3 years on SiriusXM Pulse, I have moved over to the same time slot on SiriusXM Hits 1. Super excited to start connecting with you there and begin this new chapter of saying random things in-between songs. Hope you can join me weekdays on Hits 1 from 5pm ET/2pm PT!”

What Remains Unclear: The future of Gaby Symon, who held the afternoon slot solo after Tony Fly moved to The 10s Spot, has not been publicly addressed. Additionally, SiriusXM has yet to announce a permanent replacement co-host for Morning Mashup following Stanley T’s departure last month. The channel’s long-term strategic direction remains an open question amid multiple exits.

What It Means: Hits 1 is clearly navigating a significant talent transition period. Beyond Brady’s arrival, the channel recently lost veteran Spyder Harrison to retirement and Stanley T from mornings. Nevertheless, the new daily lineup — featuring Morning Mashup, Hits 1 in Miami with Mack and Jen, Brady in afternoons, and Mikey Piff overnight — signals the channel is actively reshaping its identity. Brady brings proven satellite and terrestrial experience to a key daypart.

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 Greenberg: Mike Golic Is the “Most Important Person in the History of ESPN Radio”

John Mamola
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Mike Greenberg: Mike Golic Is the “Most Important Person in the History of ESPN Radio”

Mike Golic is heading back to ESPN Radio beginning on August 3. ESPN Get Up host Mike Greenberg says it couldn’t make more sense.

What We Know: Golic Sr. and Golic Jr. return to ESPN Radio on August 3 to host The Golics. The father-son duo will handle the 10 a.m. to noon Eastern slot. Golic Sr. spent 25 years at ESPN, including 17 alongside Greenberg on Mike & Mike. Still, their partnership ended in 2017, and Golic left the network entirely in 2021. Greenberg says he’s happy to see Golic back with ESPN Radio in an interview with Jake Asman on The Michael Kay Show on ESPN New York.

What They Said: (All quotes from The Michael Kay Show – ESPN New York)

Mike Greenberg on Mike Golic’s return to ESPN Radio: “When it was announced that he was coming back, I said to him, “You’re the most important person in the history of the radio network.” He was there before I got there, and he was there after I left. So, it only makes sense. So I think it’s great.”

Mike Greenberg on Mike Golic the person: “If you know Mike Golic, you know there’s no one who was more family oriented. You don’t know anyone who did it right being a dad anymore than Mike did, and continues to. The fact that he’s working with Mike Jr. is great. I think ESPN is where they’ve always belonged. So, I think it’s great that he’s coming back.”

What Remains Unclear: Greenberg didn’t say whether he and Golic might work together again on air. Meanwhile, Golic tells Barrett Media a full reunion isn’t out of the question.

What It Means: Greenberg’s words carry weight beyond a simple courtesy. For ESPN, that public praise adds credibility to a high-profile programming bet. There’s a very layered history between Greenberg and Golic, especially since their hall of fame run with Mike & Mike. For longtime listeners, it hints at real goodwill between two of radio’s most recognizable partners. It will be interesting to see if there could be a reunion of sorts down the road for the two ESPN talents.

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.

Portland Trail Blazers Cut Broadcasters Michael Holton, Neil Everett, Jamie Hudson Among Others

John Mamola
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Portland Trail Blazers Cut Broadcasters Michael Holton, Neil Everett, Jamie Hudson Among Others

Tom Dundon isn’t just restructuring the Portland Trail Blazers’ front office under his new ownership of the franchise. Now he’s taking aim at the broadcast booth.

What We Know: According to Forbes, four broadcasters are gone: TV analyst Michael Holton, statistician Tom Haberstroh, host Neil Everett, and host Jamie Hudson. Also, TV play by play voice Kevin Calabro tells The Oregonian that he’s decided to step away from his role with the team despite attempts to work on a contract extension. Additionally, several other broadcasters are facing steep pay cuts or non-renewed contracts. Meanwhile, the TV production crew is shrinking too, after producer Greg Fonseca left for NBA Broadcasting. Graphics support will reportedly be reduced as well, which could affect on-air quality.

What Remains Unclear: The futures of radio voice Travis Demers remain unresolved with his contract up for renewal. Additionally, it’s unclear whether Portland will follow Dundon’s Carolina Hurricanes playbook, where he replaced radio coverage with a TV audio simulcast.

What It Means: Ultimately, these cuts point to a sweeping financial reset across Blazers operations. Dundon’s record is well known regarding TV/radio simulcasts with this ownership in Carolina. Dundon previously slashed Hurricanes radio costs by refusing to meet a veteran announcer’s pay, broadcasting appears to be a familiar target. Consequently, fans should brace for a leaner, less experienced booth in Portland. Meanwhile, the front office cuts and broadcast overhaul together suggest Dundon is prioritizing cost control over continuity.

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.

Clarissa Ward Signs Short-Term CNN Extension Over Concerns About Paramount Skydance Ownership

Garrett Searight
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Clarissa Ward Signs Short-Term CNN Extension Over Concerns About Paramount Skydance Ownership

CNN has reportedly retained Clarissa Ward for another year. The short-term agreement reflects uncertainty about the network’s future ownership.

What We Know: CNN and Clarissa Ward will remain together through at least the next year after Ward reportedly signed a one-year contract extension instead of a longer deal. According to Status founder Oliver Darcy, CNN CEO Mark Thompson sought a multiyear agreement. However, Ward chose a shorter commitment because she’s reportedly concerned about the network’s editorial future if Paramount Skydance completes its acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. That transaction would place CNN under the same corporate umbrella as CBS News, where Bari Weiss serves as editor-in-chief.

What’s At Stake: Ward’s decision could reflect broader unease inside CNN’s newsroom. Darcy reported that Ward closely watched Weiss reshape CBS News through high-profile staffing changes and leadership decisions. As a result, she’s reportedly reluctant to commit long-term before learning whether Weiss will gain influence over CNN. Darcy also reported that several other CNN journalists have voiced similar concerns. Earlier this year, chief legal affairs correspondent Paula Reid reportedly declined to renew her contract over uncertainty surrounding the company’s future ownership. Meanwhile, CNN declined to comment on the report.

What Remains Unclear: Paramount Skydance hasn’t announced any plans for CNN’s editorial leadership after the merger closes. Likewise, no public indication suggests Weiss will oversee CNN’s newsroom. The acquisition also hasn’t been finalized, leaving many long-term questions unanswered.

What It Means: Ward’s reported decision highlights how corporate uncertainty can influence talent retention. Although CNN kept one of its most recognizable correspondents, the one-year agreement gives Ward flexibility while the ownership situation unfolds. Consequently, other high-profile journalists may also wait before making long-term career decisions until CNN’s future leadership becomes clearer.

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.

Borell Associates: 77% of Local Advertisers to Steady or Increase Spending

Garrett Searight
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Borell Associates: 77% of Local Advertisers to Steady or Increase Spending

Local advertisers aren’t pulling back despite mounting economic concerns. Borrell Associates says most businesses expect marketing budgets to remain steady.

What We Know: Borrell Associates surveyed 149 small and medium-sized businesses between June 9 and June 26 and found advertising remains a priority for many local advertisers. According to the quarterly Business Barometer, 62% expect to spend about the same on advertising and marketing during the next six months. Another 15% plan to increase spending. As a result, 77% expect to maintain or grow their marketing investment during the second half of the year. Economic confidence, however, continues to weaken. Nearly one-third of respondents described the current environment for sustaining a small business as poor, up from 21% during the first quarter. Meanwhile, two-thirds said it’s become harder to operate a small business over the past six months.

What They Said: “The proportions expecting to spend more or spend less on ad budgets has not shown major fluctuations over the past two years.” -Borrell Associates CEO Gordon Borrell

What Remains Unclear: It’s still uncertain whether worsening economic conditions will eventually force businesses to reduce advertising budgets. While 37% of respondents expect conditions to deteriorate during the next six months, only 16% anticipate improvement. Another 46% believe business conditions will remain about the same.

What It Means: The latest findings suggest advertising has become a more resilient business expense than many expected. Even as owners grow less optimistic about the economy, many continue to view marketing as essential to maintaining customers and generating revenue. Consequently, local media companies could benefit if businesses follow through on their spending plans. However, the data also indicates that confidence remains fragile, meaning future economic changes could still influence advertising decisions later this year.

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.

Pat McAfee Announces Release Of Upcoming Album “The Diary Of A Polarizing Figure”

John Mamola
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Pat McAfee Announces Release Of Upcoming Album “The Diary Of A Polarizing Figure”

Pat McAfee is trading his headset for a microphone, again. The ESPN star will release his debut album on August 14, 2026 less than a month from his first single release in December.

What We Know: McAfee built his platform as a former Colts punter turned ESPN megastar. Now, he’s expanding into music for a second time. This reveal however is a full length album entitled The Diary of a Polarizing Figure. The project follows his debut single, Dookie, a 90-second country-rocker released last December. He recorded the album in Nashville alongside songwriter ERNEST according to his social media post.

What They Said: Pat McAfee (via X): “For as long as I can remember my mere existence has made people hate my guts. I’ve been writing songs about it for 20yrs & it’s time to let them aht.. A LOT of headlines & narratives.. if I was to die, I’d like my kids to know exactly who their dad is. August 14, 2026”

What Remains Unclear: McAfee has not confirmed the album’s full genre or track listing.

What It Means: McAfee’s music venture adds another layer to his sprawling media empire. Consequently, it blurs the line between sports personality and entertainer even further. If the album resonates, McAfee could add a new revenue stream beyond broadcasting. Either way, his crossover attempt keeps him squarely in the cultural conversation.

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.

Audacy Announces SportsRadio 610 Rebranding As 95.7 The Fan Beginning August 13

John Mamola
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Audacy Announces SportsRadio 610 Rebranding As 95.7 The Fan Beginning August 13

Audacy is boosting SportsRadio 610’s signal. The Houston sports outlet shifts to FM on August 13 and will rebrand as 95.7 The Fan.

What We Know: SportsRadio 610 has anchored Houston sports talk and served as the Texans’ longtime flagship. Audacy is now amplifying that reach on a 100,000-watt FM signal at 95.7. Moreover, the move fits a wider trend of shifting AM sports brands onto stronger FM frequencies. The switch lands August 13, the same day as the Texans’ preseason opener.

What They Said: (all quotes via 95.7 The Fan)

95.7 The Fan Brand Manager Parker Hillis: “This is an exciting announcement. Sports Radio 610, we’re growing. You heard it in the promo, and you’re going to hear it a lot from us as we get to this August 13th date, and as we go beyond it. We’re becoming louder, clearer, and better than ever.”

95.7 The Fan Sean Pendergast: “SportsRadio 610 was my first friend in Houston. I didn’t know anybody when I moved here. My first actual human being friends were all tied to the station in some way. They were all listeners, you know. Now for me to be on the air today on the day where it’s moving over to FM is a big emotional thing.”

Chris Oliviero, Chief Business Officer, Audacy: “Houston boasts some of the most passionate sports fans in the country, and they deserve both the content and distribution that matches their energy. Between our incredibly entertaining and informative lineup of local hosts and our exclusive partnership with the Texans, we are the ultimate destination for Houston sports fans. Launching 95.7 The Fan as our tenth FM sports station in the top ten U.S. markets is a proud milestone and solidifies Audacy’s leadership in local sports audio. We can’t wait to bring this unbeatable coverage to even more fans so they can join the conversation and stay connected to the teams they love.”

95.7 The Fan Seth Payne: “It’s a better signal. It sounds better. It’s more consistent. You don’t have to worry about explaining to your kids why you’re switching over to the AM band. It’s easier for more people to find. When you recommend it to your friends, they’re going to listen to it. It’s really good for us, but it’s also most importantly, I think, really good for our listeners, and we’re able to deliver a better product.”

95.7 The Fan Brand Manager Parker Hillis: “610 is not going anywhere. What this means is we are taking what we do here on a day-to-day basis on SportsRadio 610 and amplifying it. We will be moving on August 13, which if anyone’s not looking at their calendars, you’ll recognize that as a really busy day for us. That’s the preseason opener for the Texans. So on that morning, we will broadcast a simulcast into perpetuity on 610 and 95.7 as 95.7 and 610 The Fan.”

What Remains Unclear: Audacy hasn’t detailed staffing changes for 95.7’s current adult hits format.

What It Means: Audacy’s push for sports radio on FM continues. Moreover, the company now has FM sports outlets in all of the top ten local radio markets. In addition, the rebrand puts SportsRadio 610 on clearer, more reliable terrain heading into football season. As a result, better reception could widen the audience right as Texans coverage ramps up. Additionally, for listeners and advertisers alike, the FM upgrade signals Audacy’s confidence in the brand’s future.

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.

Jemele Hill: Journalism Continues To Be Phased Out In Sports Broadcasting

John Mamola
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Jemele Hill: Journalism Continues To Be Phased Out In Sports Broadcasting

ESPN trimmed more jobs this week. Jemele Hill says the cuts confirm a deeper shift in how networks and sports broadcasters are choosing influence and attention over journalism.

What We Know: ESPN’s latest round of layoffs hit on-air talent and support staff alike. The cuts follow the network’s continued integration of NFL Network assets. Hill left ESPN in 2018 after a 12-year run, departing amid friction over her social media commentary. She now hosts the sports-and-politics podcast Spolitics, where she often critiques the industry she once covered. Following the layoffs from ESPN this week, Hill says she no longer knows how to advise young journalists to a path that could have them arrive at ESPN.

What They Said: (All quotes via SPOLITICS)

Jemele Hill believes ESPN is no longer a destination for journalists: “I’m sure there’s a lot of younger journalists that are watching these layoffs at ESPN because for a lot of them, ESPN is the poster on the wall. That’s the place they all want to work. I don’t even know what to tell them now in terms of how they get to a place like ESPN because the model is very different. I don’t know what to tell you, especially how to get to ESPN if you’re not a former athlete, because that lane has shrunk considerably.”

Jemele Hill on her fears that journalism will lose out to influencers in sports media: “The journalist itself is being sort of phased out in sports broadcasting. I don’t say this because I have a problem with influencers, but there’s a lot of media outlets and companies that are choosing to go the influencer route rather than the journalism route. It’s sad. There’s no question now that the popularity matters to people more than the journalism part. My fear is that we’re going to lose the journalism part.”

Jemele Hill on why Pat McAfee and Stephen A. Smith earn so much from ESPN: “People hate watch them, but they’re still watching them. They can carry and create large audiences. That’s why they’re getting paid the money that they are. So, in an attention economy, what matters is who can draw the attention. Sometimes it doesn’t matter often whether it’s good attention or bad attention. If you can captivate audience, that is what your biggest selling point will be.”

What Remains Unclear: ESPN has not detailed the full scope of the network’s reduction in force. The cuts were part of a wider shift by The Walt Disney Company.

What It Means For aspiring sports journalists, the traditional route into ESPN keeps narrowing. Hill’s remarks suggest attention-driving personalities, not traditional reporters, now hold more leverage. That shift could reshape how sports news gets covered for years to come. Hill isn’t incorrect in her remarks stating that the value of journalism is declining, despite more opportunities for voices than ever before with digital media.

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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