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Rich Eisen To Host Future SportsCenter Special Editions

BSM Staff
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Rich Eisen To Host Future SportsCenter Special Editions

NFL Network’s Rich Eisen is returning to ESPN’s SportsCenter, headlining what has been called “periodic special editions” of the network’s flagship show this fall, according to a report in Front Office Sports. The news follows Eisen’s highly praised comeback appearance Monday night on the program.

Eisen, who last anchored SportsCenter in 2003, drew 708,000 viewers for his recent 11 p.m. ET broadcast—67% higher than the average for that timeslot and slightly surpassing the 670,000 viewers his final SportsCenter drew 22 years ago.

An ESPN spokesperson confirmed that the network plans to utilize Eisen for select future episodes to Front Office Sports.

The 56-year-old anchor first rose to prominence at SportsCenter from 1996 to 2003, earning a reputation for his quick wit alongside colleagues Dan Patrick and Craig Kilborn. He later became the face of the newly launched NFL Network, where he continues to serve as lead anchor. Eisen was the first employee hired by the NFL Network in 2003.

Eisen will maintain that role while making occasional appearances across ESPN’s studio programming, including the upcoming debut of The Rich Eisen Show on ESPN+, Disney+, and ESPN Radio beginning Sept. 2.

ESPN incorporated throwback horns, music, and graphics reminiscent of the show’s 1990s heyday in Eisen’s return on Monday night. He was joined in-studio by NFL analyst Mina Kimes and delivered a tribute to former SportsCenter anchor Stuart Scott, who passed away in 2015 after a battle with cancer.

“That was pretty cool. I woke up to a bushel of text messages and emails,” said ESPN President of Content Burke Magnus, reflecting on the acclaim following Eisen’s broadcast during a press conference previewing ESPN’s new direct-to-consumer product launching tomorrow.

Eisen’s upcoming appearances are also tied to ESPN’s broader corporate strategy, including its acquisition of NFL Network and the RedZone channel, pending regulatory approval which isn’t fully expected till late 2026.

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Amazon Prime Video Adds John Wall As NBA Analyst

BSM Staff
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Amazon Prime Video Adds John Wall As NBA Analyst

Prime Video announced Wednesday that five-time NBA All-Star John Wall will join its broadcast team as an analyst for the inaugural season of NBA on Prime. Wall, a former Washington Wizards standout, will appear in-studio alongside Blake Griffin, Dirk Nowitzki, Steve Nash, Dwyane Wade, Candace Parker, and Udonis Haslem.

“After 13 seasons in the NBA filled with unforgettable moments, I am excited to start a new chapter with NBA on Prime,” Wall said. “This change is not just a career move; it’s a chance to stay close to the game I love and share the insights I’ve gained throughout my career playing point guard at the highest level. Basketball has shaped my life, and now I can help fans see it from a new angle.”

Wall, renowned for his court vision and playmaking ability, brings a deep understanding of the game and prior broadcast experience to the studio. Selected first overall in the 2010 NBA Draft, he spent nine seasons with the Wizards and two additional campaigns with the Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Clippers. Wall led Washington to multiple playoff appearances and earned All-NBA honors in 2017. He made his on-air debut as a guest analyst on NBA TV in December 2024.

“We’re proud to have John join us for the launch of NBA on Prime,” said Amina Hussein, Prime Sports Head of On-Air Talent. “He has an incredible eye for the game, and we look forward to the thoughtful perspective he will add to our coverage throughout the season.”

NBA on Prime will debut on Friday, Oct. 24, with a doubleheader featuring the Boston Celtics at the New York Knicks followed by the Minnesota Timberwolves at the Los Angeles Lakers. Pregame coverage begins at 7 p.m. ET, with halftime coverage broadcast live from Amazon Studios in Culver City.

In addition to doubleheaders, Prime will air The Crossover between games, offering extended pregame insights and feature segments. Each night of NBA on Prime will conclude with NBA Nightcap, a one-hour postgame show featuring player interviews and in-depth analysis.

Wall’s addition comes as Prime Video continues to expand its NBA coverage, aiming to provide a blend of star-driven commentary, in-depth analysis, and behind-the-scenes access. His perspective as a point guard with extensive playoff experience is expected to resonate with fans and enhance the network’s studio offerings.

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 Cleveland Reveals New Lineup Debuting September 2

BSM Staff
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ESPN Cleveland Reveals New Lineup Debuting September 2

ESPN Cleveland is rolling out a revamped weekday lineup from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST, set to debut Tuesday, September 2, promising fans fresh ways to connect with their favorite personalities and a deeper dive into Cleveland sports across audio, streaming, and digital platforms.

The station’s new schedule kicks off with The Tony Rizzo Show, an 8 a.m. YouTube-exclusive program featuring Rizzo alongside Chris Oldach. Rizzo, whose voice has represented Cleveland fans across all sports for more than 40 years, joins the streaming video format allowing for heightened fan interaction and a platform for his signature rants and commentary.

Following that, The Really Big Show airs from 9 a.m. to noon. Tony Rizzo joins Aaron Goldhammer and Chris Oldach for what has long been a staple of Cleveland sports talk. The trio is known for blending humor, debate, and historical perspective into discussions that resonate with local fans. Over 18 years, Rizzo and Goldhammer have become synonymous with spirited and entertaining Cleveland sports coverage.

From noon to 1 p.m., RBS Next brings a national perspective to a local audience, as Goldhammer pairs with Emmett Golden. The hour promises a fast-paced look at Cleveland sports, combining the hosts’ distinct personalities and lively conversation to keep listeners engaged.

“This is the engaging and unique local content that Cleveland sports fans deserve,” said Jordan Klimack, Assistant Director of Content at ESPN Cleveland. “This new lineup gives Cleveland innovative ways to listen, watch, and interact with their favorite shows and hosts. I couldn’t be more excited for fans to experience what we have in-store.”

The Next Level, airing from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., features Emmett Golden, Jerod Cherry, and Nick Paulus. Over the past seven years, Golden and Cherry have cultivated a strong connection with Cleveland fans. The program aims to elevate fan interaction and conversation, pairing energy with thought-provoking insights.

Rounding out the lineup is Cleveland Browns Daily, airing from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Hosts Beau Bishop and Nathan Zegura deliver behind-the-scenes access to the Browns organization, offering year-round coverage, interviews, and exclusive insights into the team.

Rizzo, reflecting on the station’s changes, called the updated lineup “the best version of ESPN Cleveland ever” and promised fans the network is “just getting started.”

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‘All Things Considered’ Host Ari Shapiro to Leave NPR Next Month

BNM Staff
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‘All Things Considered’ Host Ari Shapiro to Leave NPR Next Month

NPR has announced that All Things Considered host Ari Shapiro will depart the public radio organization at the end of September.

Shapiro joined the show — the NPR afternoon flagship program — as one of its rotating hosts in September 2015. Before joining the show as hot, he worked as an international correspondent, in addition to his time as the network’s White House correspondent and a justice correspondent.

“It has been a wild privilege to spend 25 years at NPR,” Shapiro said. “After a decade as host of All Things Considered, I’ve decided to move on at the end of September … For now, let me just express what a joy it has been to share stories and conversations with you. The work of public radio is more important today than it has ever been. I intend to continue supporting it, and I hope you will too. Thank you for listening.”

The exit of Ari Shapiro from All Things Considered and NPR marks the third high-profile exit in recent weeks. Editor-in-Chief Edith Chapin announced her plans to depart late last month. Meanwhile, longtime host Susan Stamberg revealed earlier this month that she would step away from the network after more than 50 years with the outlet.

The exits come after more than $1 billion in funding earmarked for the Corporation of Public Broadcasting — and in turn to public media outlets like NPR and PBS — was cut by Congress.

Estimates show that the funding being slashed has led to an influx of donations to the public media brands. The Contributor Development Partnership, which analyzes media fundraising efforts, estimates that 120,000 donors have pledged at least $20 million in funding in the past four months, when it became increasingly clear that the funding cuts would be enacted by Congress.

Overall, donations to NPR and PBS are an estimated $70 million higher at this stage than they were in the same time frame during 2024.

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 CEO Kelli Turner: ‘We’re Evolving to Provide’ Content on Every Device

BNM Staff
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Audacy CEO Kelli Turner: ‘We’re Evolving to Provide’ Content on Every Device

Wednesday marks National Radio Day. It also marks the 105th anniversary of WWJ Newsradio 950 signing on the air in Detroit. Audacy CEO Kelli Turner joined the station’s morning show to commemorate both occasions and discuss where the industry is headed.

Turner was asked what the future of the industry looked like from her perspective. She shared her belief that being a multi-platform entity is where the radio industry is headed.

“It went from being an over-the-air radio business to a digital and over-the-air radio business, to people now call it an audio business. But, frankly, I think we are a local content business,” said Turner. “We are producing amazing content all day, every day, and we are a lifeline for listeners. And we love the fact that people can get our content everywhere. So I think that as the world evolves, we remain sort of a leader in local content, and we want people to get that content on every device, everywhere they are. And I think we’re evolving to provide that.”

Kelli Turner was installed as the interim President and CEO of Audacy in January before being given the permanent role in March as the company emerged from its pre-packaged bankruptcy proceedings.

In her short time with the company, she said she’s learned radio remains an important emergency resource in the communities Audacy serves.

“You see it time and time again,” Turner said. “Radio is a lifeline that connects listeners and provides crucial information when they need it most,” she continued before noting recent examples like wildfires in California, the flooding in Texas, and KMOX winning a National Edward R. Murrow Award for its coverage of flash flooding in St. Louis.

“We believe strongly in the power of radio. We believe that we are a lifeline for people, and we are always there when they need us,” Turner concluded.

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.

Moe Mitchell No Longer Part of ‘The Bert Show’

BMM Staff
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Moe Mitchell No Longer Part of ‘The Bert Show’

Moe Mitchell is no longer a part of the nationally syndicated “The Bert Show.” Bert Weiss, host of the Atlanta-based show, addressed the news this morning, calling it the “elephant in the room here.”

Weiss said, “Unfortunately, Moe is not going to be part of ‘The Bert Show’ anymore. And that is really all I can share at this time.”

Adding, “The one thing that I can promise you is that everybody in here is going to do everything we can to make sure that you guys are entertained every morning. And we are putting together the best show we can, and we are trying our best. But that’s really all I can share at this point.

Mitchell had been a part of the show since 2018.

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.

Jomboy Media Co-Founder: Tubi Fast Channel Won’t Affect Content Access

BSM Staff
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Jomboy Media Co-Founder: Tubi Fast Channel Won’t Affect Content Access

Jomboy Media is continuing its rapid growth with another major distribution deal, this time joining forces with Tubi to bring its most popular sports programming to the free ad-supported streaming platform. Founded by Jimmy O’Brien and Jake Storiale, Jomboy Media has become one of the most influential creator-led sports brands in digital media with a focus on the sport of baseball.

Its storytelling style, humor, and in-depth knowledge of the game have helped the company develop a community of more than 30 million fans. Now, through Tubi’s platform, shows like Talkin’ Baseball and Talkin’ Yanks will be made available to a larger, more diverse audience. Speaking on the partnership on the latest episode of The Morning Meeting, O’Brien stressed that the deal fits into Jomboy’s strategy of expanding reach without restricting its loyal core audience.

“These deals are really cool because it can lead to more reach,” O’Brien said. “Tubi is free. So, we’re not going behind a paywall. It’s also not going there exclusively or first. That’s what a lot of platforms wanted for a while was like an exclusive show. I don’t think you need to do that.”

O’Brien noted that while Jomboy Media has built much of its following on “active viewers”—those who deliberately seek out the content—the partnership with Tubi allows for new opportunities with “passive viewing.” By being part of a large on-demand library available to more than 100 million monthly active users, O’Brien believes the company can reach casual sports fans who may stumble across their shows.

“Active viewers that are searching you, want to watch you, remember you and become part of your community. Active viewing is the hardest get,” O’Brien explained. “Passive viewing is where you can really grow. We’ve seen this being on YES Network where people are watching the game. Then all of a sudden Jake and I are on their screens at the bars. Tubi can help us grow the same way.”

For Jomboy Media, that balance between growing distribution and protecting its direct relationship with its audience is critical. O’Brien was clear that the partnership with Tubi will not alter the way fans consume Jomboy content on its core platforms like YouTube or podcasts.

“This does not affect you if you’re tuning into us at all besides it should help us grow,” he said. “It’s nice to be sought out with the group of people that are also getting sought out, and it should lead to nice growth. More deals like this would be fun to get our content on other places without hindering our main audience and what we’re doing first.”

The agreement comes as Tubi accelerates its push into creator-led programming. Alongside Jomboy Media, the platform announced partnerships with top digital creators including Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, Alan Chikin Chow, CelinaSpookyBoo, and Steven He. The company said its collection of digital-first creator content now exceeds 5,000 episodes.

Rich Bloom, General Manager of Creator Programs at Tubi, emphasized that these deals are part of the company’s strategy to provide creators with a wider audience. “We’re committed to building a bridge to Hollywood for creators to help them reach new audiences,” Bloom said.

O’Brien said he sees Tubi’s active user base—composed largely of cord-cutters, Gen Z, and millennials—as the right kind of audience for Jomboy Media’s unique sports voice. The free, ad-supported model also aligns with Jomboy’s approach of meeting fans where they are.

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

Newsmax Reports 18% Revenue Increase During 2025’s 2nd Quarter

BNM Staff
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Newsmax Reports 18% Revenue Increase During 2025’s 2nd Quarter

Newsmax has reported its second-quarter financial results, and the news is overwhelmingly positive for the cable network.

During the months of April, May, and June, Newsmax reported $46.4 million in quarterly revenue. That figure represents an 18.4% year-over-year increase.

Total broadcast revenues grew to $29.6 million, an increase of 28.5% compared to 2024’s second quarter. Meanwhile, advertising revenue saw a 26.2% year-over-year increase, up to $29.9 million.

Finally, the company earned $7.3 million in affiliate revenue and carriage fees, an increase due to new contracts enacted this year.

“We are excited to report another strong quarter with impressive financial and operational results that demonstrate the power of our growing cable and FAST channels,” said Newsmax CEO Christopher Ruddy. “Our second-quarter revenue growth reflects the continued strength of our business model and the resonance of our content with American audiences.”

“The growth we’re seeing across our affiliate fees, advertising revenue and Newsmax+ subscriptions, combined with our strong balance sheet and access to capital markets, positions us well to execute on our long-term strategic vision while maintaining the operational flexibility needed to pursue emerging growth opportunities,” added Newsmax CFO Darryle Burnham.

The financial results announcement comes on the heels of the news that the network has settled the defamation lawsuit brought forth by Dominion Voting Systems. Newsmax will pay $67 million to settle the case, with $27 million being paid now, with the remaining balance being paid in $20 million increments over the course of the next 18 months.

“We are pleased to have reached a resolution with Dominion,” said Ruddy. “This settlement enables us to move forward from the litigation and remain focused on delivering the trusted news and analysis our viewers rely on every day.”

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Radio Music Royalitys Rise With BMI RMLC Deal

BMM Staff
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Radio Music Royalitys Rise With BMI RMLC Deal

Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI) and the Radio Music License Committee (RMLC) have agreed to terms on a new deal that concludes their extended rate court battle. The agreement, announced this week, applies retroactively to January 1, 2022.

BMI described the settlement as a landmark moment. While noting that it delivers the largest royalty rate increase the organization has ever achieved with the radio industry.

“BMI sought a rate that reflected our market-leading share of the music performed on radio stations across the country. I’m pleased to say we achieved our largest rate increase ever for the radio industry,” said Mike O’Neill, President & CEO of BMI. “This new deal ensures BMI’s songwriters will be more fairly compensated for the performance of their music on this incredibly important platform. Negotiation is always better than litigation, and we’re pleased to have worked together with the RMLC to achieve this outcome.”

For broadcasters, the RMLC emphasized predictability and avoided costs as key outcomes of the settlement.

“We are pleased to have reached an amicable agreement with BMI, which is indicative of how strongly the radio industry values its partnerships with songwriters,” said RMLC Chairman Ed Atsinger. “Furthermore, we feel that this agreement provides the radio industry with the ability to plan for the long-term while avoiding substantial litigation costs and uncertainties associated with the rate court process.”

The settlement resolves one of the highest-profile licensing disputes between radio operators and rights holders. While establishing new royalty terms for BMI’s songwriters and publishers across U.S. radio.

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.

670 The Score Announces Multi-Year Rights Extension With Chicago Marathon

BSM Staff
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670 The Score Announces Multi-Year Rights Extension With Chicago Marathon

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon will continue to be heard on 670 The Score. Audacy Chicago and event organizers announced a multi-year extension of their broadcast partnership. The renewal ensures the station will remain the official radio broadcast home of the iconic race through 2028.

The extension means that in 2026, the two sides will celebrate a milestone — 20 consecutive years of partnership. For an event that has become a staple of Chicago’s sports calendar, keeping the relationship intact underscores how important the marathon has become. Both for the city and for the station’s brand.

“We’re thrilled to extend our longstanding partnership with Chicago’s premier sports radio station, 670 The Score. Ensuring live coverage of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon continues through 2028,” Executive Race Director Carey Pinkowski said in a release. “For nearly two decades, the team at 670 The Score has brought the energy and excitement of Marathon Sunday to life for listeners across the city and beyond. Their dedication helps runners and fans of the sport feel connected to the race and we’re proud to continue building on this outstanding collaboration.”

As part of the agreement, The Score will continue delivering expansive radio coverage. That includes a four-hour live broadcast on race day, two pre-race programs in the weeks leading up to the marathon featuring expert voices and Pinkowski with a full recap show once the event wraps.

Mitch Rosen, Vice President and Director of Operations and Brand Manager for 670 The Score, said the partnership not only reflects the station’s commitment to local sports but also its connection to the fabric of Chicago.

“For two decades, 670 The Score has been the broadcast home of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon,” Rosen said. “It’s an immense honor for our team at Audacy Chicago to partner with this iconic, world-class event and bring its energy to our listeners. This 20-year milestone reflects our deep commitment to the race, the runners and the city of Chicago.”

The Chicago Marathon is recognized globally as one of the Abbott World Marathon Majors. Every October, elite runners, amateur participants and fans line the city streets for one of the most celebrated endurance races in the world. The radio broadcast allows those unable to attend in person to follow along. Mile by mile, the live action is something The Score has leaned into as part of its coverage strategy.

The 2025 edition of the marathon will air on Sunday, Oct. 12, beginning at 7 a.m. Longtime Chicago broadcaster Josh Liss will again anchor the call, joined by analysts Josh Cox, Jenny Spangler, Treniere Moser and Chris Wehrman. The team will provide wall-to-wall commentary on the elite competition and the thousands of runners making their way through the 26.2-mile course.

Listeners can access the coverage in multiple ways. The broadcast will air locally on 670 The Score in Chicago. A live stream nationally on the Audacy app and website, giving the event additional reach beyond Chicago. The station also plans to connect with audiences through its social media platforms on X, Facebook and Instagram.

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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