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Newsmax to Make Lineup Changes Including Greta Van Susteren and Carl Higbie

BNM Staff
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Newsmax to Make Lineup Changes Including Greta Van Susteren and Carl Higbie

Newsmax has announced changes to its daily lineup, with Greta Van Susteren, Chris Salcedo, and Carl Higbie changing timeslots.

Beginning on Monday, September 8th, the network will move The Record with Greta Van Susteren to the 4 PM ET timeslot.

“This is the ideal point in the day for a news show,” Van Susteren said. “It’s when the major stories are taking shape, and I can do what I love most: reporting, explaining, and learning.”

While speaking at the BNM Summit on Wednesday morning, Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy said that Van Susteren moving to the 4 PM ET timeslot is perfect for the longtime cable news host due to Congress, the financial markets, and other notable news events generally end at the time. He shared that he believed it put Van Susteren in a position to cover the hard-news angles at those times, while allowing opinion hosts more time to react and share their comments on topics.

Previously, that show was seen at 6 PM ET. Moving to that timeslot is Carl Higbie Frontline. That show had been in the 5 PM ET window.

In the meantime, The Chris Salcedo Show is moving from the 4 PM ET timeslot to the 5 PM ET timeslot.

The network’s primetime lineup — which includes Rob Finnerty, Rob Schmitt, Greg Kelly, and Chris Plante — remains unchanged on Newsmax.

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ESPN Signs Dan Graziano To Contract Extension

BSM Staff
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ESPN Signs Dan Graziano To Contract Extension

ESPN has re-signed NFL national reporter Dan Graziano, solidifying his multiplatform presence across the network’s digital and studio programming. Graziano, who joined ESPN in 2011 as a digital contributor covering the NFC East, has steadily expanded his profile on television and online, becoming a familiar voice for fans across SportsCenter, NFL Live, and Get Up.

Under the new agreement, Graziano will continue to serve as a key contributor to ESPN’s NFL coverage. His reporting will also extend to the NFL Draft, Scouting Combine, League Meetings, and other major league events, providing insights for both in-studio and on-site broadcasts.

Graziano’s digital work remains a cornerstone of his ESPN tenure. His “Buzz Files” and “Overreaction” stories, which often focus on player contracts, salary cap developments, and the business side of the NFL, have consistently resonated with fans and will continue under the renewed contract.

Graziano’s extension coincides with the re-signing of fellow NFL reporter Sal Paolantonio, whose tenure at ESPN now spans 30 years. While Paolantonio remains the network’s longest-serving full-time reporter, Graziano has emerged as a prominent multiplatform journalist, reflecting ESPN’s continued investment in versatile NFL coverage. Both Paolantonio and Graziano will continue covering major NFL events, from the draft and combine to league meetings, while also contributing to ESPN’s studio programming.

Throughout his nearly 15-year career with ESPN, Graziano has become known for his ability to translate complex league developments into accessible stories for fans, whether on television, radio, or online. His reporting style blends breaking news, analysis, and feature storytelling, offering a comprehensive perspective on the league and its players.

With his renewed contract, Graziano is expected to maintain a strong presence across ESPN’s NFL coverage, further solidifying his role as a trusted voice for fans and an integral part of the network’s reporting team.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

Audacy Elevates Tommy Castor To Senior Vice President, Market Manager Wichita Market

BNM Staff
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Audacy Elevates Tommy Castor To Senior Vice President, Market Manager Wichita Market

Audacy has elevated Tommy Castor to Senior Vice President and Market Manager of its Wichita market, where he will oversee the company’s portfolio of brands, including Power 93.5, 103.7 KEYN, 105.3 The Buzz, KFH Radio and KNSS.

In addition to his new leadership role, Castor will continue serving as Vice President of Sales for the Wichita market. He succeeds Becky Domyan, who will maintain her position as Senior Vice President and Market Manager of Audacy St. Louis.

“Tommy has a proven track record of success and a deep connection to this market, and we couldn’t be happier to have him take the reins to lead Audacy Wichita forward,” said Brian Purdy, Regional President, Audacy. “I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Becky for her leadership and impactful work in Wichita. We are thankful for the strong foundation she leaves behind and are confident Tommy will build upon that success.”

Castor, who joined Audacy Wichita in 2023 as Vice President of Sales, has overseen radio, event and digital sales, and co-hosted Sports Daily on KFH Radio since 2022. His leadership experience spans more than 20 years in the media industry, including owning a digital advertising agency and serving as Vice President of Sales and Marketing for the Wichita Thunder.

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to step into this new role with Audacy and our incredible brands and people in Wichita,” Castor said. “I look forward to our continued success and am excited to take on these added responsibilities as we achieve our goals. My thanks to Brian Purdy and Becky Domyan for their leadership and their faith in me.”

Domyan, who has served as Senior Vice President and Market Manager for Audacy St. Louis since 2018, took on oversight of the Wichita market in 2022. Her previous roles include Director of Sales and General Sales Manager at Emmis Communications. Domyan also serves as Executive Director for the Saint Louis Fashion Fund.

“It has been an amazing experience running the Wichita market, and I’m incredibly proud of what our team has accomplished for the community,” Domyan said. “I’m delighted for Tommy as he takes on this leadership role and excited to now focus 100% on our efforts in St. Louis.”

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‘The Craig Carton Show’ To Air on SportsGrid FAST Channel Beginning Thursday

BSM Staff
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‘The Craig Carton Show’ To Air on SportsGrid FAST Channel Beginning Thursday

SportsGrid has announced the launch of The Craig Carton Show. A new daily sports talk program hosted by broadcaster Craig Carton, set to premiere Thursday, September 4, 2025. The show will air weekdays from 11 a.m. to 12 noon ET on the SportsGrid FAST Channel and will originate from Studio 34 in the heart of New York City. Production is handled by FOX Sports in partnership with Red Seat Ventures.

The program promises to bring Carton’s signature energy and unfiltered perspective to sports fans nationwide. Tackling the day’s biggest storylines, debates, and personalities across professional and collegiate sports.

“I couldn’t be more excited to launch The Craig Carton Show on SportsGrid,” Carton said in a statement. “Studio 34 is an incredible stage in the middle of New York City. I can’t wait to deliver a new program format that’s smart, authentic, and most importantly, fun for sports fans everywhere.”

SportsGrid’s FAST Channel is available across major connected TV and free ad-supported streaming platforms. Including Roku, Samsung TV Plus, Amazon Freevee, LG Channels, Sling Freestream, DIRECTV, Pluto TV, and Vizio WatchFree+. SportsGrid reportedly drives millions of monthly viewer impressions and engagement sessions, building a large and growing national audience.

“SportsGrid is about delivering compelling, original live sports programming to fans wherever they watch. Bringing Craig Carton into our lineup is a perfect example of that mission,” said Louis Maione, SportsGrid’s founder and president. “His voice, personality, and deep connection with sports audiences make him a tremendous fit for the SportsGrid FAST Channel.”

Eric Pearce, executive vice president of creator operations for Red Seat Ventures, emphasized the partnership’s potential to reach a modern, dynamic audience. “We’ve long admired Craig’s ability to connect with fans through his passion and unique style,” Pearce said. “Partnering with SportsGrid to bring this program to life is a great opportunity to showcase Craig’s talent in a format that reaches millions of fans across connected TV platforms every day.”

This venture for Carton marks the first since the cancelation of Breakfast Ball on FS1 in July. When the program was announced last month, Andrew Marchand of The Athletic reported that this new venture by Carton would not prevent him from returning to host on WFAN in New York City. While there has been much speculation about the occurrence, there has been no reported talks between the two parties.

Carton, a veteran broadcaster known for his stints in radio and television, adds to SportsGrid’s expanding lineup of live sports content. The network’s focus on original programming, combined with Carton’s energetic approach, is expected to attract both longtime sports enthusiasts and younger streaming audiences.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

ESPN Extends Contract With NFL Reporter Sal Paolantonio

BSM Staff
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ESPN Extends Contract With NFL Reporter Sal Paolantonio

ESPN has re-signed veteran NFL reporter Sal Paolantonio, extending his tenure as the network’s longest-serving full-time reporter and reinforcing his presence across its NFL coverage. Paolantonio, who joined ESPN in 1995 as a bureau reporter, has spent nearly three decades building a reputation for thorough reporting, insider access, and a trusted voice among fans, players, and coaches alike.

Under the new agreement, Paolantonio will continue to serve as a key contributor to Sunday NFL Countdown, reporting from one of the week’s marquee games, a role he has held throughout his ESPN career. Additionally, he will maintain his long-standing assignment covering the Super Bowl annually, a position he has held every year since joining the network.

Paolantonio’s responsibilities extend beyond sideline reporting. He will continue hosting NFL Matchup, ESPN’s film breakdown show, which he has helmed for the past 22 seasons. The program provides in-depth analysis of team strategies and Xs-and-Os insights, cementing Paolantonio’s role as both reporter and analyst. He will also appear periodically on ESPN Radio as an analyst during live NFL broadcasts.

The reporter remains closely associated with the Philadelphia Eagles, covering the team as they aim to defend their Super Bowl title this season. Despite the scope of his NFL coverage, his reporting has retained a local focus, giving fans a window into one of the league’s most passionate markets.

Paolantonio’s tenure at ESPN places him alongside some of the network’s most enduring figures, including Holly Rowe and Jeremy Schaap. Rowe began sideline reporting for ABC Sports in 1995 before joining ESPN full-time in 1998, while Schaap joined ESPN in 1994 as a producer and became a reporter in 1996.

Paolantonio’s contract extension comes alongside a renewed agreement for fellow NFL national reporter Dan Graziano, who joined ESPN in 2011 and has grown his multiplatform presence across digital and studio shows. Graziano regularly appears on Get Up, NFL Live, and SportsCenter, in addition to contributing to ESPN’s digital platforms, including his “Buzz Files” and “Overreaction” series, which often examine player contracts and NFL business developments.

Both Paolantonio and Graziano will continue covering major NFL events, from the draft and combine to league meetings, while also contributing to ESPN’s studio programming. Graziano has occasionally hosted Get Up and NFL Live, reflecting his versatility, while Paolantonio remains the network’s cornerstone reporter, combining on-field insight with analytical depth.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

Scott Jennings: ‘I Haven’t Made Any Announcements’ About Running For Senate in 2026

BNM Staff
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Scott Jennings: ‘I Haven’t Made Any Announcements’ About Running For Senate in 2026

Longtime Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced earlier this year that he would not seek re-election during the 2026 race for his seat. Salem Radio Network host and CNN contributor Scott Jennings is a native of the state. He hasn’t ruled out running for the position.

While speaking at the BNM Summit in New York on Wednesday morning, Jennings was asked about potentially running for Governor of Kentucky in 2027. He immediately shot down the notion that he was a potential candidate for that position.

He didn’t, however, shut down the idea that he’ll run for Senate to replace McConnell.

“I haven’t made any announcements on that yet,” he stated. Scott Jennings added that he currently has a full schedule between working for CNN, Salem Radio Network, and raising his family in the state.

The 47-year-old Jennings is a native of Dawson Springs, Kentucky. He graduated from the University of Louisville and worked in the city at heritage radio brand 840 WHAS. Jennings later led the 2000 presidential campaign for George W. Bush in the state.

Sen. Mitch McConnell has served as the longest-serving Senate party leader in U.S. Congressional history. He was originally elected in 1984. Hours after his announcement, former Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron announced his intention to seek the Republican nomination.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

Streameast Streaming Sports Platform Shut Down Following Sting Operation

BSM Staff
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Streameast Streaming Sports Platform Shut Down Following Sting Operation

The world’s largest illegal sports streaming network, Streameast, has been shut down following a year-long investigation, the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment announced. The U.S.-based anti-piracy coalition, which includes 50 leading media and entertainment companies such as Amazon, Netflix, Apple TV+, and Paramount, partnered with Egyptian authorities to dismantle the operation.

Streameast operated across 80 unauthorized domains and generated an estimated 1.6 billion visits over the past year. The platform offered free access to top global sports, including Europe’s Premier League and Champions League, the NFL, NBA, MLB, pay-per-view boxing, MMA, and Formula One. Average monthly traffic reached 136 million visits, with the majority originating from the U.S., Canada, the U.K., the Philippines, and Germany.

Charles Rivkin, chairman of ACE and CEO of the Motion Picture Association, called the takedown “a resounding victory in the fight to detect, deter, and dismantle criminal perpetrators of digital piracy.” Rivkin added that the operation protected sports leagues, entertainment companies, and fans worldwide. While sending a clear message to other piracy networks.

According to the New York Times, during the raid in El-Sheikh Zaid, Giza Governorate, Egypt, two men were arrested on suspicion of copyright infringement and detained. Authorities seized laptops, smartphones, cash, and multiple credit cards. Investigators also discovered a shell company in the UAE allegedly used to launder £4.9 million ($6.2 million) in advertising revenue since 2010, alongside £150,000 ($200,000) in cryptocurrency. Real estate in Egypt is also suspected to have been purchased with illicit earnings.

Ed McCarthy, COO of DAZN Group and part of ACE’s collaboration, described Streameast as “a criminal operation siphoning value from sports at every level and putting fans at risk globally.” The platform had previously drawn attention when LeBron James was spotted via social media watching an NBA game courtside through Streameast in 2024. This sparked concerns about potential shutdowns among fans.

“We congratulate ACE on this landmark enforcement action. Piracy is not a victimless crime. It undermines the entire sports economy, from rights holders and leagues to athletes and fans. The success of this operation proves that with strong international cooperation and robust enforcement. No illegal network is beyond reach. beIN MEDIA GROUP is proud to stand with ACE in continuing to pursue and dismantle criminal piracy operations wherever they exist,” said Cameron Andrews, Legal Director, Anti-Piracy for beIN MEDIA GROUP.

While Streameast’s main domain is inactive, copycat and backup sites have emerged, claiming to continue the service. ACE is monitoring these sites and investigating any connections.

The crackdown reflects broader global efforts to combat digital piracy. According to a 2025 survey by Brand Finance, 43% of respondents across 13 countries admitted to using unofficial streams rather than paying for live sports, highlighting the ongoing challenge facing leagues, content providers, and law enforcement worldwide.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

Mega 104.3 Names Xavier “The X Man” as New Afternoon Host

BMM Staff
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Mega 104.3 Names Xavier “The X Man” as New Afternoon Host

Sierra H Broadcasting’s Rhythmic Oldies station Mega 104.3 Camp Verde/Phoenix is turning to a familiar voice with deep roots in the Southwest to lead its afternoon lineup. The company announced Xavier “The X-Man” will officially take over afternoons, expanding his long-running connection with audiences across the region.

For more than 25 years, Xavier has been a mainstay at Local Media San Diego’s Magic 92.5, where he has held down middays and served as assistant program director since 2000. His presence stretches beyond San Diego, however. He also tracks middays at Bustos Media’s 106.3 The Groove Tucson and hosts a regionally syndicated Sunday R&B Oldies program that already reaches multiple markets in the Southwest. That show will now become part of the weekend lineup on KAJM as well.

“I was on a for a brief moment years back on Sundays with “The X-Man Oldies Show” but now I’m back weekday afternoons from 3p-7p,” he said on a video posted to Facebook.

Before cementing his reputation in San Diego, Xavier built his career at several influential California stations. Each stop added to a resume that reflects both versatility and credibility in connecting with listeners in diverse, multicultural markets.

“Phoenix has always had a special place in my heart,” Xavier said in the announcement. “Mega 104.3 is family, and I’m hyped to reconnect with the community, hit the streets, and bring the music and stories that move us. Let’s get it!”

Sierra H Broadcasting Director of Content and Programming Eric Rosado emphasized that the addition is about more than filling a time slot. He framed Xavier’s arrival as part of a broader strategy to strengthen the station’s community impact and authenticity.

“I’m very excited to welcome Xavier The X-Man® to the Phoenix afternoon airwaves,” Rosado said. “He is a perfect fit for KAJM with his extensive experience and knowledge in this format. As proven in his successful career, he cares about the community, his listeners, and has the passion to sound authentic on the air day after day. X-Man is the perfect example of how we need to create connections that are more than just the music. Listeners in the Valley are in for something special.”

The Volume Signs New Partnership With Hard Rock Bet

BSM Staff
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The Volume Signs New Partnership With Hard Rock Bet

Colin Cowherd’s content network, The Volume, is shifting gears in the sports betting space. Cowherd has aligned his growing media company with Hard Rock Bet in a multi-million-dollar partnership.

The agreement makes Hard Rock Bet the presenting sponsor and exclusive sportsbook partner across The Volume’s slate of podcasts, YouTube shows, and social platforms. That lineup includes The Colin Cowherd Podcast, What’s Wright? With Nick Wright among others. The move represents a significant pivot, as DraftKings previously held the sportsbook partnership with The Volume since 2023.

Through its alliance with the Seminole Tribe, Hard Rock Bet currently holds a unique advantage. Hard Rock Bet operates as the only legal sportsbook in Florida, a state with more than 20 million residents. That reach provides a natural connection to Cowherd’s audience. Particularly given his national platform and Florida’s growing influence in the sports landscape.

Beyond advertising, both sides plan to collaborate on original content. This included new shows, live productions at major sporting events, and exclusive betting segments. On-site activations such as live shows at Hard Rock casinos, tournaments, watch parties, and unique fan experiences are also in the works.

Cowherd, who founded The Volume in 2021, emphasized the importance of authenticity in sports media.

“The Volume has always been about delivering smart, authentic conversations for sports fans,” he said in a statement to Front Office Sports. “Partnering with Hard Rock Bet allows us to take that to the next level—integrating betting, content, and live experiences in ways that feel natural, entertaining, and fresh.”

Hard Rock’s leadership echoed that sentiment. Edward Hartman, managing director of corporate development and a former PointsBet U.S. executive, said the combination of integrated betting content with live shows will “bring fans closer to the action.”

The Volume’s momentum in the sports gambling space has been evident. Earlier this week, longtime industry voice Chad Millman—best known as co-founder of Action Network and former editor-in-chief of ESPN.com and ESPN the Magazine—debuted a new betting-focused show, Sharp or Square, alongside co-host Simon Hunter.

With The Volume surpassing 20 shows and generating an estimated 1.5 billion monthly impressions. The Cowherd–Hard Rock alliance underscores how media networks and sportsbooks continue to evolve their strategies in a competitive marketplace.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

Sinclair Announces Return of ‘Full Measure With Sharyl Attkisson’ for 11th Season

BNM Staff
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Sinclair Announces Return of ‘Full Measure With Sharyl Attkisson’ for 11th Season

Sinclair announced that Full Measure with Sharyl Attkisson will return for its 11th season on Sept. 7, marking another milestone for the investigative news program at a time when many networks are scaling back original reporting.

Hosted by Emmy and Edward R. Murrow Award–winning journalist Sharyl Attkisson, the weekly program has carved out a space for accountability journalism since its 2015 launch. Each episode spotlights in-depth reporting on issues. These range from government oversight to global affairs, while often taking viewers inside stories that receive little attention elsewhere.

“For more than a decade, Full Measure has stood out as one of television’s most consistent sources of accountability journalism,” said Scott Livingston, Sinclair’s senior vice president of news. “Each week, Sharyl and her team challenge assumptions, uncover the stories others overlook, and provide viewers with trusted context and perspective.”

The season premiere will air this weekend. Attkisson and her team will be reporting from El Salvador, once plagued by crime and violence but now under a strict security crackdown by President Nayib Bukele. The program will explore whether such an approach could be replicated in the United States. The episode will also revisit the devastation of Hurricane Katrina on its 20th anniversary. Examining if government disaster response has meaningfully improved in the years since.

Despite broader industry struggles, the program has grown its footprint. According to Sinclair, Full Measure has increased its total audience share by 49 percent since its debut. The most recent season alone saw a 25 percent rise in the 25-54 category, along with a 12 percent jump in Adults 35-64. Household share also climbed by 5 percent.

Attkisson said the ability to continue producing investigative content in today’s broadcast landscape is meaningful for both journalists and audiences. “It’s incredibly rewarding to continue to have the support of Sinclair and the Full Measure team for our groundbreaking program going into year 11 when so many other organizations are cutting back on original impactful reporting,” she said.

The series’ momentum was further recognized with 10 Telly Awards last season for excellence in news coverage.

Executive Producer Batt Humphreys added that the show’s longevity underscores its place in a fractured media environment. “Beginning a second decade of this program, with a growing audience, is almost unheard of in today’s broadcast news,” he said. “It’s a testament to the unique role Full Measure plays in bringing meaningful investigative journalism to viewers.”

Full Measure with Sharyl Attkisson airs Sundays across Sinclair’s television stations.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.

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