Home Blog Page 67

How Michelle McKormick Is Navigating Her “Refirement”

Mike Stern
-
0
How Michelle McKormick Is Navigating Her “Refirement”

There is a growing number of people — including a healthy chunk from the radio industry — who are facing a unique life challenge. They are at a place in their career where they are close to, but not quite ready for, retirement. Then, due to economic circumstances beyond their control, they get fired.

Michelle McKormick, who was recently caught up in a Cumulus reduction in force, now falls into this category after she was let go from Classic Rock WLAV/Grand Rapids. And while the media has yet to coin a phrase for people in this situation, Michelle thinks she may have it. She’s calling it her “Refirement” (service mark pending — don’t you dare steal it and start making merch).

Unlike many other broadcasters, though, Michelle was allowed to stay on the air for a month after she knew she was being let go. During that time, the listeners and the industry rallied around her. With the majority of her career having been in Grand Rapids, her layoff was big news and was covered on all three local television stations. Listeners were incredibly supportive, and friends from across the industry wanted to be part of her final shows. In fact, other than the part where she lost her job, it may have been one of the most eye-opening and life-affirming experiences she’s had during her career of more than 40 years.

“I hate to use the word ‘processing,’ but I still am. I still can’t get over how fantastic it was. Getting fired was actually good for me,” says Michelle. “Though, as narcissistic and pompous as I am, it’s probably a good thing that I didn’t know how people felt before this. If I had known all that, you wouldn’t have been able to live with me.”

The Power of Personality

For Michelle, the overwhelmingly supportive reaction to being laid off reinforced that radio still has the power to build strong connections with the audience. “I thought I was important to my company. But it turns out I was important to listeners and clients more,” Michelle says. “I’ve always known that people still listen to the radio, but it was proven to me. And I feel like that guy who looked at me on a spreadsheet and said, ‘She’s gone,’ doesn’t realize that there are these people it matters to. People who still sit in their cars and listen, and these people still do care. It is a part of their everyday life.”

It was also nice to have friends and colleagues from across her career show up to honor her. “I was shocked that not only people that I’ve worked with wanted to come on the show, but even other shows in the market,” Michelle says. That included old partners like Frank Kramer from the Heidi and Frank show on KLOS, as well as competing local shows like Mojo in the Morning and Free Beer and Hot Wings.

Michelle believes that level of respect and industry camaraderie comes from a career-long practice of trying to be friendly with everyone. “You just try to not have enemies. I mean, honestly, just try not to be a dick.” But when members of the local media hosted a happy hour after her last day, it did start to feel a little awkward. “There was a going-away thing with media and radio friends, and it was like being at my funeral. I was like, ‘Alright, you guys, stop.’”

Paying It Forward

But one person at that event stood out to Michelle, echoing another hallmark of how she has approached her career. “My most favorite part was a younger women that got up and said, ‘You helped me. You gave me my first shot on the mic, you were nice and you coached me.’”

Helping younger radio talent build their careers has always been important to Michelle. She says it goes back to when she started out in the business. “I had a person who was not nice to me and a person who was nice to me when I was first starting. After the one that was not nice to me, I vowed that I wasn’t going to do that to people who are starting out. First day in the building, nobody needs to hear from an asshole.”

She also credits Terry Lieberman, her Program Director at 97.1 WKRK/Detroit — one of her few stints outside of Grand Rapids — for helping her find her voice. “He called me into his office and said, ‘You’re not being yourself. You have to get on the air and be yourself,’” Michelle remembers. “That’s when I decided, okay, balls to the wall, I’m just going be my real self. And that’s when it started to take off. Then when I came back to Grand Rapids, it was, this is who I am, and it works.”

The Young Talent

For young talent today, Michelle believes it takes even more than just letting your true personality fly. “It’s not just doing your radio show, which is sad, because I put everything into that,” Michelle explains. “Now you really have to resonate on every level. You have to excel at the digital aspect, and you have to resonate with clients. But younger talent are really good at that.”

Resonating with clients has always come easily to Michelle. “My joke is, I was walking through the sales department, and somebody said, ‘Hey, Michelle, do you get migraines?’ And I said, ‘Do you want me to?’ So, I started slinging this migraine medication that probably wasn’t any good. I mean, I do worry that there are dead listeners because of it,” she says jokingly. “I just decided I’ll sell anything. Plus, I like meeting with clients. I like getting to yes. It’s fun. It energizes me.”

Remembering the Best and the Worst

Looking back, Michelle does feel bad that young talent today will never get to experience what the industry used to be like. “I was a music director when the record companies would wine and dine you. It was so old school. I was young, but I got to see all that. Like, REO Speedwagon spent the night at my house.” But things weren’t perfect then, either. “At the same time, that also came with not making the same pay as the guy you’re working with.”

And while Michelle is not ready to ride off into the West Michigan sunset and believes listeners in Grand Rapids have not heard the last of her, she was nostalgic enough to share the story of what may be her one true career regret. “Elvis Duran was looking for a partner, and I got an interview. I had sent him a big care package and done every kitschy radio thing you could do to get his attention,” she remembers. “I was living in New Jersey at the time. So I went into the city, and I’m so nervous because I’m going to do an audition with Elvis the next morning. And I never oversleep, but somehow I slept through it.”

She was mortified. “You don’t recover from that. I just tiptoed off into the night. I’ve seen Elvis since then, too, and I haven’t ever reminded him of it. Hopefully, he just forgot about it, but I will tell him someday. Or maybe you can tell him.”

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.

Bill Spadea Reflects on His Run for Governor and Return to New Jersey 101.5

Krystina Alarcon Carroll
-
0
Bill Spadea Reflects on His Run for Governor and Return to New Jersey 101.5

Known for his wit and charm, Bill Spadea is back at New Jersey’s 101.5 after running in the Republican primary for governor.

The longtime host stepped away to seek the nomination, but has now found his stride in morning drive with the station. He also hosts a weekend show on Newsmax, in addition to his work on New Jersey 101.5.

He spoke with Barrett Media about his return to the mic, what he learned from politics, and how closely related radio and politics are.

Why The Move to Politics?

Krystina Carroll: Bill, usually people go into politics after radio. You did it the other way around. How does it feel to come full circle and be back behind the mic?

Bill Spadea: I love what I do. It was such an exciting and unique experience to run for governor. I look at it as just an extension of what I do on the radio, which is communicate and help and pay attention and listen.

So, for me, going back to 101.5 — the biggest audience in New Jersey — it was like a homecoming.

I’ll tell you this: my run for governor made my ability to communicate even stronger, because the experiences you have running for office help you really understand the diversity and depth of a state like New Jersey. It was incredible.

I thought I knew New Jersey really well, and then you find out you can learn even more. So I’m able to bring a really powerful experience back to the microphone now. I would say more people should do it this way.

KC: With all these new experiences, did it make it easier to find your stride when you got back to the mic?

BS: Yes. I’ve been doing this long enough. I started my media career in television, and I had a seven-year run on Fox TV with a show called Chasing News. About a year and a half into that, I took on the radio job at 101.5.

I would say the transition from TV to radio was a bigger hurdle to overcome, because television is different. There’s a script; you’re talking to a camera.

Whereas in radio, I’m sitting next to someone in their car — or, during COVID, sitting next to them at the dining room table as they watched their kids do school on Zoom while trying to make a living. It’s personal. You learn that right away when you get into the business.

When I came back from the campaign, it was actually an easy transition, because the people I talked to one-on-one — I was basically just continuing the conversation from behind the mic.

KC: Can your listeners expect anything new in your show now that you’re back?

BS: What they can expect is the same authenticity and sincerity I’ve had since I started. I did not get into media as a “media guy.” I was never looking for a media career.

I was a business person. Then I got into real estate. I love that business too, because real estate is also a very personal business. It matters. The human touch, the interaction with people one-on-one.

So, for me, what I learned on the campaign trail is that it’s not good enough for someone to tell you, “Vote for me because the other guy’s bad.” It’s also not good enough for someone to say, “Vote for me because we’re in the same party.”

When you hear politicians say vote for the person, not the party, a lot of them aren’t sincere about that, because what they’re really saying is, “Vote for me — I’m more important than the party.” What I say is that it is truly about the person and the principles.

I’m able, with a lot clearer focus, to call out the nonsense, the lies, the false promises, and all of the showmanship and theater that is in politics. I saw it firsthand.

So, for me, I’m able to deliver ideas that aren’t encumbered by partisan talking points or by major donors or special interests. I’m able to grab that mic, and it is just me.

I even more so now have an incredible trust with the people I talk to, because they know I’m not going to steer them wrong. They know my interest is delivering truth and helping them navigate through the mess that this state can be. And I’m not asking them for anything — not a vote, not a donation. I’m just here to help.

Best Interview Practice?

KC: Is the way you interview politicians going to change based on this run?

BS: I think a lot of politicians wish I would do it differently, but what they learned — and what I learned — is that my style is still the same. One of the reasons I wasn’t successful in the Republican primary is that I never played the game. I was always willing to challenge politicians and the powers that be.

The two things I loved most about campaigning: one was knocking on doors. I loved it because it brought me right back to radio — one-on-one with somebody, having a conversation.

The second thing I loved was the debates, because on the debate stage I was knowledgeable — I’ve had so many years of experience reading and understanding policy and talking about it on the air. I felt very comfortable discussing detailed policy. But I also felt liberated, the same way I do on the air, because I could just speak my mind.

There are now more Democrats and independents than ever listening to my show, because I can handle a dissenting view, an opposing view, a challenge, a contrarian take. I think too many people in the media business want it one way. They don’t want to hear the other side. They want to steamroll with their own opinion. I look at it as a learning experience.

I’ve always said this about this job, and every job: you have two ears and one mouth. You should use them in that proportion. You listen more than you talk.

KC: When you went through your “political polishing,” was it different than going through media polishing?

BS: That’s a great question. The difference is that in the campaign, we hired professionals. We had some of the best professionals in the business — our general consultant was Bill Stepien, the guy who ran President Trump’s campaign. We had some of the best minds in the business, and I was able to get true guidance.

In media, there are no direct mentors. You’re thrown into it, and there’s no way to practice for that first call.

You can learn the timing of the show. You can learn how to end a call quickly because you’re up against the clock. You can learn those things, but nothing can really prepare you for the interaction.

So you have to learn on the job. I think people who believe they can be taught this are kidding themselves. I’m always interacting with people, talking, listening. But the reality is I’m no different on the air than I am at the doors, or even at home. It’s my same personality that I put on the air.

KC: You mentioned people who challenge your political ideology, which happens to everyone. On some outlets, those calls go straight to the front; on others, not so much. Where do you fall on that spectrum?

BS: If you disagree with me and you communicate that with our producers, you are going to go first. I love a challenge. I don’t like the idea that a show, or any conversation, should just be agreeing.

Remember, most people won’t call the show. 99.9% of people will never interact with you — they’re just listening. So it’s important to get diverse opinions out on the air. I think the best way that happens is when someone challenges you on a premise. It also makes me better. If everybody agrees, I’m not challenged. When you disagree, I’m forced to rely on my research, my reading, and the hours I spend understanding different perspectives. I love detail.

If I can get a caller who disagreed with me to say, “Oh, that’s actually a good point,” I know there are thousands of other people out there thinking, “Oh, I see it differently now.” That’s almost impossible to do on television, but you can do it on radio, when you’re interacting with people one-on-one.

KC: Why do you say it’s impossible for TV, but easier for radio?

BS: Impossible is probably the wrong word, but television doesn’t have live callers — you’re talking to guests. I host on Newsmax, and we bring in special guests and newsmakers. The timing is so tight. I’ve got to get my points about the news out to inform the viewers, and the guest wants to get their points out too, because they thought about what they were going to say beforehand. There isn’t as much time for that natural interaction. The viewer is either going to agree or disagree, which is why I think in television, people gravitate toward channels where they already know what they’re going to hear. It’s predictable.

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.

DJ Bonics Reflects on iHeartRadio Fest and Radio’s Future

Bethany Kent
-
0
DJ Bonics Reflects on iHeartRadio Fest and Radio’s Future

DJ Bonics has spent two decades bouncing between the artist side and the radio side of the business. He is a member of the Heavy Hitters DJ crew and has served as Wiz Khalifa’s official tour DJ as an integral member of the Taylor Gang family since 2010. While touring the world with Wiz, he never fully left radio, and today he still hosts shows in three different markets. That dual perspective makes him one of the more interesting voices to check in with as the industry keeps shifting.

Fresh off a run at the iHeartRadio Music Festival, Bonics reflected on his career, the state of radio today, and where he thinks the platform still wins.

A Family Moment on a Big Stage

Bonics was at the iHeartRadio Music Festival performing with Snoop Dogg and Wiz was a special guest that night. For Bonics, the whole night carried extra weight.

“It was surreal,” Bonics said. “I was there actually through Snoop and Wiz happened to be his special guest, so it was all family there. Just in general, it’s a ‘pinch me’ moment performing with Snoop. Who really is bigger than that in Hip Hop?”

One moment stood out above the rest. Bonics got to see Snoop fulfill a Make-A-Wish request for a young fan, and said it reminded him what music can mean across generations.

“It was heartwarming to see what Snoop means to all generations,” he said.

From a Hometown Anthem to a Global Stage

Bonics has ridden alongside Wiz since before “Black and Yellow” turned into a Pittsburgh anthem and a national hit.

Looking back at how far that song traveled, Bonics still marvels at the timing and the reach.

“You don’t even realize how big of a moment and the chances of anything like that happening,” he said. “Think about writing a song called ‘Black and Yellow’ repping your hometown when your NFL team goes to the Super Bowl. That’s just next level.”

The Steelers did not win that year, but Bonics said the cultural impact stuck around anyway. He still sees the black and yellow Pittsburgh Pirates hat popping up on fans overseas.

Radio Never Really Left

While touring the world with Wiz, Bonics kept his hands on the radio dial too. He worked shows in Philadelphia, including a stint where he and I met while both working at Wired 96.5, and later in Portland with Alpha Media and in Minneapolis on GO Radio. I remember doing a super cool promotion with Bonics where a winner got to “go on tour” with Wiz Khalifa and traveled to three tour stops. Bonics was able to give them a VIP experience backstage at each show. Although if I remember correctly, I believe the winner may have missed the second show because of partying a bit too hard the first night.

Today Bonics hosts a daily jazz, soul and funk show on KUNV in Las Vegas, plus a Friday mix show that runs on iHeart stations in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. “I think radio makes your part in music a bit more real and accountable,” he said. “It gives you the opportunity to be a part of a community and a voice within it.”

His years in radio have also sharpened skills that carry over to the stage. He says specifically the interviewing and simply being comfortable on a microphone in front of a crowd.

What Radio Used to Give Artists

Bonics has watched the relationship between radio and touring artists change from both sides of the glass, and he does not think it changed for the better.

“I think there has been a lack of artist development now that radio then provided,” he said. “There was a label and radio relationship that was mutually helpful for both the station and the artists.”

That old system let artists connect directly with a city through the personalities who lived there, he explained. Social media now gives artists a different kind of reach, but it also pushed radio further from center stage. Even so, Bonics said radio personalities who stay visible in their market still matter to touring acts.

“The moral of the story is: if you’re in radio, build your impact in your market so the artists don’t skip you,” he said.

Wiz caught the tail end of that older system, Bonics noted, building real relationships with personalities across the country early in his career. Many of those same people have since grown into bigger roles, and the connection stuck. Today, Bonics said, Wiz reaches fans through not only music and radio, but also in fitness, fashion, streaming and the cannabis industry.

Still in the Seat, Still Fighting for Local

Bonics never left the personality chair, so when asked what would be hardest about breaking into radio today, he answered from experience rather than hindsight.

“I still am in that seat,” he said. “And I think the guardrails that RADIO put on RADIO makes it harder for people to break and stay relevant. Having platforms on your station to show the personality of your CITY and COMMUNITY are vital. Imagine there are shows that are syndicated to cities where the morning show might not even mention your local football team. Yes, there are national trends but putting an emphasis on LIVE and LOCAL could make the difference in your brand connecting with the community.”

Why Radio Still Matters

Despite the frustrations, Bonics has not given up on the medium that raised him.

“What I love about FM radio is not everyone can do it or be a part of it which gives some exclusivity to the platform. However, the platform is AVAILABLE to EVERYBODY! No subscriptions. Some radio still captures the essence of the city they’re in and have personalities that actually mean something to their city. I think radio will always be a platform that’s important, but I feel like it could sound more LIVE and LOCAL. I hope to see radio as a continued reflection of the culture and community that it’s in, not just TOP DOWN telling you what’s ‘cool.'”

Advice for the Next Generation

For young DJs and personalities eyeing a similar path from the booth to the road, Bonics offered a simple message.

“Don’t be afraid to take that leap,” he said. “Find your mentors. And it’s okay to take your time. The best stories are the ones that take you through ups and downs and twists and turns. Build the legend.”

Giving Credit Where It’s Due

As always, I like to ask someone I respect as much as DJ Bonics who he sees doing radio “right” today. Bonics was quick to spotlight Mikey and Big Bob from 96.1 KISS in Pittsburgh.

“They are a true reflection of the Pittsburgh community,” he said. “Original, relevant and visible. They do it right. They mean something to the city. And unfortunately, a lot of radio personalities don’t.”

From the studio to the stage and back again, Bonics has spent his career proving that the two sides of the industry still have plenty to partner on.

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.

Taylor Davis’ ESPN Journey Shows Why Paying Your Dues Still Matters in Sports Media

John Molori
-
0
Taylor Davis’ ESPN Journey Shows Why Paying Your Dues Still Matters in Sports Media

In this day and age of celebrity over substance, it is hard to find a sports television personality who has truly climbed the media ladder. I am talking about someone who started on the production side of things. A behind-the-scenes staffer who longed to be on air but had to pay her dues to get there. One of those personalities is ESPN reporter Taylor Davis.

This season, Davis is a sideline reporter working weekly college football games on ESPN’s SEC Network. She is also the network’s top reporter for collegiate gymnastics and hosts the fun and informative SEC State of Mind podcast with former NFL and college quarterback Jason Campbell.

In her role as a sideline reporter, Davis excels at disseminating a lot of information in a scant amount of time. She is also a terrific interviewer, asking poignant and direct questions pregame, at halftime, and postgame.

Storytelling Expertise

This past week, Davis was the sideline reporter for Mississippi State at South Carolina. A matchup that was delayed by weather issues in Columbia. Davis was live on the field for the SEC Now pregame show and offered a power-packed game preview.

She stated that anticipation for the game was extremely high, with both teams featuring exciting dual-threat quarterbacks — Mississippi State’s Kamario Taylor and South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers. In a clear and concise manner, she talked about the quarterbacks’ size and speed. How they chose colleges in their home states, and how both have brothers on their respective teams. She even offered breaking news, reporting that South Carolina edge rusher Dylan Stewart would make his season debut.

It was a textbook sideline reporter stand-up. Davis set the scene, talked about key players, included pertinent information, and provided the necessary background.

Speaking of background, let’s get back to Davis herself. She has been with ESPN since graduating from Auburn University in 2014. Davis spent four years at the network as a production assistant and content associate. She edited studio highlights, produced content and feature stories. Even worked on graphics for ESPN college sports programming.

There are not many frontline national sports reporters who started their careers in dark edit rooms pressing buttons and producing content. This gives Davis a uniquely wide-ranging television perspective. She understands the collaborative nature of good television and has an innate respect for the talented technical professionals that fans never see.

In essence, Davis is a throwback. For anyone who has worked at all levels of media, she’s an inspiring example of perseverance. Good backstories only take you so far, however. Make no mistake, Davis is one of the most talented sideline reporters working today. During the Mississippi State-South Carolina game, she excelled at the most challenging part of her job. The quick and often awkward coach’s interview at halftime.

Flawless Execution

Davis was on her game. She conducted a solid interview with Mississippi State head coach Jeff Lebby just before halftime and followed up by asking Gamecocks head coach Shane Beamer what his offense needed to do to improve in the second half.

Davis saved her best for a postgame interview with victorious Bulldogs quarterback Kamario Taylor. In her always pleasant manner, she asked Taylor some basic questions about the game and his talents. Her style put the young quarterback at ease. So much so, he ended the interview by politely thanking her and wishing her a good evening.

The brief Q&A went viral because Davis brought out the best in her interview subject.

On the SEC State of Mind podcast, Davis is similarly effective at tapping into Campbell’s background as the 2004 SEC Offensive Player of the Year at Auburn. He also was a solid professional quarterback, chiefly with Washington. The duo has a lot of fun with the show. Topics range on everything from offensive and defensive alignments to the best places to eat at various SEC schools.

Remaining Versatile

Just as she did as a production assistant, Davis never stops working. When the college football season ends in January, she vaults into NCAA gymnastics. A sport that has grown in popularity with numerous high-profile athletes, including Livvy Dunne, the former LSU gymnast who has become a full-fledged multimedia star.

That same star shines brightly on Davis, who brings charisma, personality, emotion, and professionalism to all of her assignments. Davis has also adeptly used social media to give fans glimpses into her personal life. She provides quick game previews, posts photos from her many travels, and even asks followers for recommendations on great coffee shops to try.

Davis is also unafraid to openly share her faith, often posting scripture quotes and bible passages.

This Saturday, SEC Network play-by-play announcer Matt Schumacker and color analyst Aaron Murray will call Missouri at Mississippi State, a huge matchup with both teams sitting at 3-0. Roaming the sidelines and adding another chapter to a good, old-fashioned television success story will be Davis — an experienced and driven reporter who truly defines the moniker “working 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.

Taylor McGregor Departs Marquee Sports Network For Full Time ESPN Role

John Mamola
-
0
Taylor McGregor Departs Marquee Sports Network For Full Time ESPN Role

Taylor McGregor is leaving Marquee Sports Network. Now, the longtime Cubs field reporter is joining ESPN full-time.

What We Know: McGregor has covered the Cubs since Marquee launched in 2020. Meanwhile, she has worked college football and UFL sidelines for ESPN since September 2019. Her final Marquee assignment came at Thursday’s regular-season home finale. Additionally, her contract with the network runs through the end of the season.

What They Said: (All quotes via Marquee Sports Network):

Taylor McGregor on leaving Marquee Sports Network and the Chicago Cubs: “Today is my last broadcast with Marquee [Sports Network] and the [Chicago] Cubs. I am leaving to take a full-time role with ESPN. There’s so much that I want to say, and I will say eventually. But this has been the ride of a lifetime.”

Taylor McGregor on why she’s taking a full time position with ESPN: “This is my seventh season with the [Chicago] Cubs. Every day was a joy. It was a really hard decision to come to this. Ultimately, I just felt like it was the best move for me personally, and everything that I want, both professionally and personally.”

Taylor McGregor on her career in Chicago: “I have loved my time in Chicago. To everybody who watched our broadcast every single night, I just want to say thank you. Thank you for welcoming me into your living room. When I started, I was a very green reporter with a lot blonder hair. I feel like I’ve kind of grown up on the air here at Marquee [Sports Network].”

Taylor McGregor thankful for the experience with Marquee Sports Network: “I love all you guys. I appreciate your kindness to me throughout the years, and I look forward to still seeing you. I’m going to stay in Chicago, and I’ll still be around Wrigley Field. So hopefully, I can come say hi to you guys every now and again. Thank you for everything.”

What Remains Unclear: ESPN has not detailed her full slate of new assignments in a full time role. Marquee also has not named a replacement.

What It Means: For Marquee, the move removes a familiar face from Cubs broadcasts. In fact, McGregor spent seven seasons on the network’s air. For ESPN, it secures a rising talent that Netflix reportedly pursued earlier this year. Still, Cubs fans may see her around, since she plans to stay in Chicago. How much more of McGregor we’ll see on ESPN is yet to be determined.

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.

Rogers Relaunches Vancouver Station as Gold CHR Kiss West Coast

David Hill
-
1
Rogers Relaunches Vancouver Station as Gold CHR Kiss West Coast

Rogers Sports & Media has flipped CKKS-FM once again. The Vancouver-area station is now Gold CHR “Kiss West Coast.”

What We Know Just over a year after launching Millennial Hits “Kiss Throwbacks,” Rogers relaunched 107.5 CKKS-FM Chilliwack, 92.5 CKKS-FM-1 Abbotsford, and 104.9 CKKS-FM-2 Vancouver. The new format blends the previous throwback library with currents and recurrents. Additionally, the station now positions itself as “The Biggest Hits, The Best Throwbacks.”

What’s at Stake Roz & Mocha, based at Toronto’s Kiss 92.5 CKIS-FM, have returned to mornings on the station. Meanwhile, former 94.5 The Beat morning host Jonny Staub remains the local voice. Staub originally joined when the station flipped to Kiss Throwbacks in July 2025. Other dayparts, however, originate from Rogers stations across Canada.

What Remains Unclear The announcement does not explain why Rogers moved away from the Millennial Hits approach after roughly a year. Likewise, it offers no detail on local programming beyond Staub’s role. Finally, it remains to be seen how Canucks broadcasts will fit around the new music lineup.

What It Means The flip brings current-based music and Kiss branding back to the station. Previously, it ran as “Kiss Radio” from 2015 until switching to Alternative in June 2022. Furthermore, CKKS-FM becomes the Vancouver Canucks flagship for the 2026-27 season. That follows Rogers’ July shutdown of Sportsnet 650 CISL, making this signal a bigger piece of the company’s Vancouver strategy.

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.

Jon “Stugotz” Weiner Launches New College Football Podcast With Chris Fallica

John Mamola
-
1
Jon “Stugotz” Weiner Launches New College Football Podcast With Chris Fallica

FOX Sports Radio is launching a new college football podcast with Jon “Stugotz” Weiner and Chris “The Bear” Fallica. College Football with Stugotz & The Bear debuts Friday with iHeartPodcasts.

What We Know: New episodes will post twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays, throughout football season. Additionally, the show will cover rivalries, iconic venues, star players, game-day traditions and tailgate food. Meanwhile, Weiner already has deep roots at the network with his national weekday show Stugotz and Company LIVE! on FOX Sports Radio. Fallica is a college football analyst with FOX Sports.

What They Said: Jon “Stugotz” Weiner: “They asked me to host a college football podcast, so I did the smart thing and brought along my friend who actually knows college football. How ’bout that?!”

Chris Fallica: “College football brings out the most passionate fans and opinions in sports. Who thought giving Stugotz a voice here would be a good idea? I promise to keep him in line.”

What Remains Unclear: FOX Sports Radio has not said whether the podcast will continue after the college football season ends. Likewise, the release does not specify whether Fallica will appear on other Stugotz Podcast Network shows. It also remains unclear whether the podcast will cross over with Stugotz and Company LIVE! in any fashion.

What It Means: The launch adds another title to the growing Stugotz Podcast Network. That slate already includes Stugotz and Company, God Bless Football, and With Stugotz & Hochman. Moreover, pairing Stugotz’s humor with Fallica’s expertise gives iHeart a show built for casual and hardcore fans alike. With episodes on the iHeartRadio app, podcast platforms and YouTube, the show can reach fans wherever they listen.

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.

Cris Collinsworth: On Record Versus Off Record Is “A Dance” With Broadcasters

John Mamola
-
0
Cris Collinsworth: On Record Versus Off Record Is “A Dance” With Broadcasters

NBC’s Cris Collinsworth says trust decides what NFL coaches share with broadcasters. Now, the Mike Macdonald controversy has put that trust under a brighter spotlight.

What We Know: Collinsworth, now in his 18th season on Sunday Night Football, addressed the issue on The Dan Patrick Show. Notably, the discussion stems from Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald’s recent sit-down with interviewer Graham Bensinger. In what he [Macdonald] thought was an off-the-record exchange, Macdonald said Sean Payton accused Seattle of cheating over fan-posted clips. However, the clip surfaced in the full YouTube interview before vanishing within hours. Collinsworth, who’s been part of many conversations with coaches in his time broadcasting, saying the balance between on the record versus off is a delicate balance.

What They Said: (All quotes via Dan Patrick Show):

Cris Collinsworth on the difficulties in navigating content from conversations with coaches during broadcasts: “Occasionally a coach will say something’s off the record. I’ve been doing this for a while, and so has Mike [Macdonald]. I think they have conversations with us, and they’ll let us know things in part because of our history. If a coach said something nice about a player, I don’t feel guilty about saying we talked to the coach and he said something nice. But occasionally, they’ll give us insights. They’ll give us insights into their team or insights into the other team, and you just kind of weave it in. So, it’s a little bit of a dance.”

Cris Collinsworth on the balance of on record versus off record: “You want to develop that relationship of trust. You have to hit 100% on that. If I burn one of these coaches or players who have told me something in confidence, and I twist it the wrong way or I attribute it to them when they didn’t want it attributed to them. Then it’s over. There’s no reason to even meet with that person in the future because the conversation is going to go nowhere. It’s such an art form. It really is.”

Cris Collinsworth says sometimes stories are told for public use but not attribution: “A lot of times they want to tell you something. They want something to get out. They just don’t want to be the one who says it. Is it ever perfect 100 percent? No, but it has to be pretty darn close in order to maintain that level of trust with these guys.”

What Remains Unclear: Still, neither Macdonald nor Bensinger explicitly declared the conversation off the record. Moreover, Bensinger said Seahawks PR received the complete interview five days before it went live. According to Bensinger, no one asked him to remove the exchange. As a result, it’s unclear how Macdonald or other coaches will approach future long-form interviews.

What It Means: Ultimately, Collinsworth frames the process as a delicate balancing act. After all, he said burning a single source can end that relationship for good. Consequently, broadcasters must protect confidences while still delivering useful insight to viewers. Meanwhile, Macdonald’s episode offers coaches a clear lesson: assume every camera is rolling.

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.

Dan Bongino: The Bongino Report AM Debuted On More Than 280 Radio Stations

Garrett Searight
-
0
Dan Bongino: The Bongino Report AM Debuted On More Than 280 Radio Stations

Dan Bongino’s new morning radio show launched this week with more than 280 affiliates. The Bongino Report AM replaced America in the Morning in the Westwood One lineup.

What We Know: The one-hour program starts at 5 AM ET, and Bongino says it opened with a robust station list. Meanwhile, America in the Morning ended last week after 42 years on the air. Jim Bohannon hosted it until 2015, and then John Trout took over and stayed through the final broadcast. As a result, the 5 AM ET slot now belongs to a new host.

What They Said: “By the way, the radio show launched today. 5 AM to 6 AM across the country on 280-something stations.” -Dan Bongino

What Remains Unclear: It’s unclear which stations carry the show, since Bongino’s estimate leaves the exact affiliate count open. Likewise, it’s unknown how many America in the Morning affiliates began airing the new program.

What It Means: The launch suggests Westwood One’s confidence in Dan Bongino as a morning draw. Moreover, a debut on 280-plus stations gives him immediate national reach in news/talk radio — a format that prizes strong morning audiences. Ultimately, the move also closes a 42-year chapter in Westwood One’s morning programming. Still, Bongino faces pressure to turn a strong launch into lasting listenership.

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.

Huey Lewis Joins Adam Reader for Classic Rock U Showcase

David Hill
-
0
Huey Lewis Joins Adam Reader for Classic Rock U Showcase

Huey Lewis took the stage at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on Wednesday. Classic Rock U host Adam Reader led the conversation during the 2026 RAB Fall Meetings.

What We Know: Classic Rock U and Skyview Networks hosted the session in Cleveland on Sept. 23. Titled “Classic Rock U Presents: The Heart of Rock & Roll with Huey Lewis,” it closed the RAB Fall Meetings. Throughout the talk, Reader explored Lewis’ career and the stories behind classic rock’s biggest songs. Meanwhile, Denver’s 99.5 The Mountain recently joined the show’s affiliate lineup.

What They Said: RAB President and CEO Mike Hulvey praised the event for “celebrating radio’s unique ability to connect people.” For his part, Reader called it “a rare opportunity” in a venue devoted to rock history. He added that Lewis offered “remarkable insights from throughout his career.” Likewise, Skyview COO Andrew Kalb said Reader has “a unique ability to bring those conversations to life.”

What Remains Unclear: However, Skyview has not said whether the Lewis conversation will air on Classic Rock U affiliates. Additionally, no details emerged on future live events tied to the show. It’s also unknown which markets could follow The Mountain onto the lineup.

What It Means: Ultimately, Classic Rock U continues to build momentum in major markets. Its lineup already includes 97.1 The Drive in Chicago, KSLX 100.7 in Phoenix, 107.5 The Eagle in Houston, KSHE 95 in St. Louis and 98.5 WNCX in Cleveland. Moreover, a Rock Hall showcase put the brand in front of advertisers and broadcast leaders. As a result, Skyview turned one interview into a pitch for the entire program.

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.

1...666768...2,871Page 67 of 2,871