Home Blog Page 778

SiriusXM, Howard Stern Not Expected to Reach Contract Extension

BNM Staff
-
2
SiriusXM, Howard Stern Not Expected to Reach Contract Extension

Howard Stern has played a pivotal role in the expansion and growth of SiriusXM since he joined the satellite broadcaster. But a new report says that his days with the company are winding down.

A report from British tabloid The Sun claims that Howard Stern and SiriusXM are not likely to agree to a contract extension before his current deal concludes later this year, leading to his exit from the company.

“Sirius and Stern are never going to meet on the money he is going to want. It’s no longer worth the investment,” a source told The Sun about the contract negotiations between the two.

Howard Stern joined the company in 2006 after a 20-year run at WXRK in New York, where his show was nationally syndicated with more than 60 affiliates. His star has only risen since joining the satellite broadcaster, leading to his appearance as a judge on the NBC reality show America’s Got Talent for three seasons, in addition to authoring several books.

Stern’s contract is slated to expire later this fall. The current five-year deal pays him a reported $100 million per year. Sources at The Sun claim that while the satellite radio brand is planning to offer him a new deal, it does not expect Stern to accept the offered terms.

Barrett Media has reached out to SiriusXM for comment on the matter. As of this publication, the company has not responded to those requests.

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.

MSNBC Adds Jacob Soboroff As Senior National and Political Correspondent

BNM Staff
-
0
MSNBC Adds Jacob Soboroff As Senior National and Political Correspondent

As MSNBC prepares to split from NBC News, the network is in the midst of a hiring spree. That includes the addition of Jacob Soboroff.

The move marks a return to the network for Soboroff, who previously joined MSNBC in 2015, until shifting his duties to NBC News.

In a post on social media, Jacob Soboroff shared his excitement for his return.

“Absolutely delighted and incredibly excited to return to the MSNBC family full-time,” said Soboroff. “The journalism. The people. Our audience. Ten years and one day after I first started, I’m coming home. So grateful.”

“I’m back. I came home to MSNBC because there’s no other place like it — a space to listen to other people, share their stories, and learn from them,” he later continued.

Soboroff becomes the latest member of the NBC News crew to join Versant — the new parent company of the network and its partner, CNBC — as it builds out its roster and executive team. The announcement of Soboroff comes on the heels of the news that NBC Nightly News Executive Producer Meghan Rafferty will join the network to serve as the Vice President of News Standards for MSNBC and CNBC

The network has also looked at outside organizations to help build out its newsgathering, production, and talent rosters, including luring Marcus Mabry away from CNN to serve as the Vice President of Content Strategy at MSNBC.

Versant is expected to be completely separated from NBCUniversal by the conclusion of 2025.

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.

Yahoo Sports Expands College Football Coverage With On3 Partnership, Roster Additions

BSM Staff
-
0
Yahoo Sports Expands College Football Coverage With On3 Partnership, Roster Additions

Yahoo Sports is doubling down on its commitment to college sports coverage, announcing a series of strategic moves aimed at deepening its footprint in the rapidly evolving college athletics media space.

According to a release, Yahoo Sports detailed new investments designed to bolster its analysis, reporting, and commentary as college sports enters a revenue-sharing era. From high-profile talent additions to broader distribution of top-tier content, the platform is positioning itself to become a central hub for fans seeking in-depth storytelling and real-time updates.

“Between the action on the field and the decisions off it, there have never been more college sports stories to tell than now,” said Sam Farber, Yahoo Sports Head of Content. “With these investments, we can deliver the kind of smart, in-depth coverage that will help fans better follow their favorite schools and understand the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics.”

One of the biggest moves involves a new partnership with On3 and college football voice Josh Pate. Beginning Aug. 10, Josh Pate’s College Football Show will be distributed through Yahoo Sports and On3 in addition to Pate’s existing YouTube and podcast channels. The show, which delivers expert breakdowns and high-profile interviews, will now originate from a newly built Yahoo Sports studio inside On3’s Nashville offices.

As part of the agreement, On3 and Rivals will become the show’s exclusive recruiting and transfer portal partners—an area both brands already dominate in the college football space.

Yahoo Sports has also launched a dedicated On3 & Rivals hub on its website, bringing together recruiting news, transfer portal updates, and original programming under one digital roof. Content from On3 shows like Andy & Ari On3 and The Hard Count with J.D. PicKell, along with Yahoo’s College Football Enquirer and Pate’s show, will be featured prominently.

“This partnership with Yahoo Sports is a major step forward for On3 and Rivals,” said On3 CEO Shannon Terry. “We’re combining trusted reporting with powerful voices, and massive distribution from Yahoo Sports to deliver the most comprehensive coverage of college sports in this new era.”

Terry also praised the reunion with Pate, calling him “one of the most impactful voices in college football.”

In addition to its content expansion, Yahoo Sports has extended senior reporter Ross Dellenger, one of the most respected insiders in the industry. Dellenger, who earned an APSE award in 2023 for his coverage of the Michigan sign-stealing scandal, will continue co-hosting College Football Enquirer.

The show will return Aug. 12 with a revamped lineup, as On3’s Andy Staples and investigative journalist Steven Godfrey join Dellenger as co-hosts. Both bring national credibility and deep industry knowledge, adding further depth to Yahoo’s college football coverage.

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.

On3 Reaches Content, Distribution Partnership With College Football Insider Josh Pate

BSM Staff
-
0
On3 Reaches Content, Distribution Partnership With College Football Insider Josh Pate

Josh Pate is joining forces with On3 | Rivals in a wide-ranging content and distribution partnership that aims to expand the reach and influence of his growing media brand ahead of the 2025 season.

The collaboration officially kicks off August 10, with The Josh Pate College Football Show moving into a new state-of-the-art Yahoo Sports studio located inside On3’s headquarters in Nashville. The move marks a significant step forward for both Pate and On3, one of the fastest-rising digital brands in college sports media.

“Our show thrived as the college football world changed totally over the past decade – and it became clear to me that a partnership with On3 and Yahoo Sports will help us be at the center of it the decade ahead,” said Pate. “We have the runway and resources to deliver everything the audience has asked for.”

As part of the agreement, On3 becomes the exclusive provider of transfer portal news and data featured on Pate’s program, while Rivals will serve as the show’s official recruiting partner. The deal also grants distribution rights to On3, Rivals, and Yahoo Sports, allowing the show to be featured across a wide range of digital platforms, including On3.com, Yahoo’s owned properties, and social media.

Pate’s existing YouTube channel and podcast feeds will remain active, ensuring longtime fans retain access to the content where they already consume it. However, the partnership opens new doors for growth, reach, and deeper integration across fan communities.

“This partnership with Yahoo Sports is a major step forward for On3 and Rivals,” said On3 | Rivals CEO Shannon Terry. “We’re combining trusted reporting with powerful voices and massive distribution to deliver the most comprehensive coverage of college sports in this new era.”

Terry, who previously worked with Pate early in his career, expressed confidence in Pate’s ability to serve as a flagship voice for the brand’s future. “It’s a real privilege to reunite with Josh Pate,” he said. “His show will be a key part of this partnership and a tremendous resource for fans.”

Known for his sharp analysis and fearless opinions, Pate has built a loyal following through consistent, in-depth commentary and timely interviews. The show’s live production from Nashville is expected to anchor both On3 and Yahoo’s digital sports offerings as interest in college football surges amid sweeping industry changes.

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.

SiriusXM Debuts Artist Residency with Bailey Zimmerman

BMM Staff
-
0
SiriusXM Debuts Artist Residency with Bailey Zimmerman

SiriusXM is launching a new Artist Residency program. Designed to provide top-tier acts with a broader platform across its music, sports, and talk channels. The initiative kicks off today (8/5) with Country artist Bailey Zimmerman, followed by Pop group Maroon 5 on August 15.

The new series highlights featured artists across various SiriusXM and Pandora channels. The programming includes performances, interviews, guest DJ spots, and on-air takeovers. It offers fans content that goes beyond just music.

“With our new Artist Residency initiative, artists can participate in special programming across multiple SiriusXM channels and Pandora to help promote a new album, tour, or other key projects,” said Steve Blatter, SiriusXM Senior Vice President & GM, Music Programming.

“Bailey Zimmerman and Maroon 5, with their genre-bending sounds and wide variety of influences, are the perfect artists to help us launch this new program. And we’re thrilled to deliver their fans a truly unique dive into their next major album releases.”

Zimmerman’s residency is timed with the release of his upcoming album Different Night Same Rodeo on August 8. In addition to an exclusive performance and interview for The Highway, the Country singer-songwriter will be heard on channels like Hip Hop Nation, Octane, SiriusXM Hits 1, MLB Network Radio, and NASCAR Radio. Outlets that reflect his interests in Hip Hop, Rock, Pop, and Sports. He’ll also take over Pandora’s The 615 station.

Maroon 5 begins their residency on August 15, coinciding with the release of their new album Love Is Like. Their residency features a live fan performance on SiriusXM Hits 1, along with appearances on The Pulse, Pandora’s Afterglow station, 10s Spot, and Pop2K. The content will also extend beyond Pop stations, including appearances on Lithium and Mad Dog Sports Radio, with programming on Mad Dog Sports and The D.A. Show with Babchik.

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 Announces Plans For New Direct-To-Consumer Product With Launch Expected This Month

BSM Staff
-
0
ESPN Announces Plans For New Direct-To-Consumer Product With Launch Expected This Month

ESPN has pulled back the curtain on its highly anticipated direct-to-consumer streaming service, offering two subscription tiers—Unlimited and Select—as the network prepares for a formal launch before the start of the 2025 football season.

According to The Sports Business Journal, the new service branded simply as “ESPN” represents the network’s most aggressive foray into the streaming marketplace to date. Designed to complement its traditional cable presence while expanding its digital reach, the platform will offer live sports, original programming, and access to ESPN’s entire suite of content.

The Unlimited plan, priced at $29.99 per month or $299.99 annually, will include access to more than 47,000 live sporting events annually. Subscribers will also receive full access to all linear ESPN networks, including ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, SEC Network, and ACC Network, as well as all ESPN+ content.

Bundling options include a Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited package starting at $35.99/month with ads, or $44.99/month without ads. A limited-time promotional offer at launch will discount the ad-supported bundle to $29.99/month for the first 12 months.

The Select plan, a continuation of the current ESPN+ experience, will cost $11.99/month or $119.99/year, and includes ESPN+ programming. Bundled options with Disney+ and Hulu will be available at $16.99/month with ads or $26.99/month without.

ESPN says all current ESPN+ subscribers, which number around 25 million, will be automatically migrated to the ESPN Select plan at no additional cost. Subscribers to the Disney Bundle that includes ESPN+ will be transitioned to the ESPN Select bundle.

For sports fans subscribing to ESPN via a traditional cable or satellite provider or multichannel video programming distributor, will have access to new app-based features and streaming functionality will come at no extra charge.

That includes updated personalization tools and improved user experience within the ESPN app.

The company is also working with distribution partners to expand reach at launch. ESPN Unlimited will be available to all DirecTV streaming and “My Sports” customers starting at launch. DirecTV satellite and U-Verse subscribers will gain access this fall via a free upgrade. Additionally, customers with DirecTV Gemini devices and the Signature package will receive complimentary access to Disney+ and Hulu.

The official announce date of the new ESPN DTC product has not been officially revealed, but several reports state that launch could come before the end of August.

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.

ROCK 95.5 Debuts with Bigger Signal in Central Pennsylvania

BMM Staff
-
1
ROCK 95.5 Debuts with Bigger Signal in Central Pennsylvania

iHeartMedia is turning up the volume on Rock in Central Pennsylvania. The company officially rolled out ROCK 95.5 on Monday, marking a significant upgrade for its Rock format in the region. The rebrand not only introduces a new identity but also involves a move up the dial, shifting from 94.9 to the more powerful 95.5 FM signal.

The frequency change enhances the station’s coverage and audio clarity, particularly for listeners in the Williamsport and Lock Haven areas. The new signal displaces the Country-formatted BILL 95, which had previously occupied the 95.5 FM spot.

“We’re thrilled to bring ROCK 95.5 to life with a stronger signal and a bigger attitude,” said Brit Goldstein, Area President for iHeartMedia. “This move allows us to better serve our rock audience with the music and personalities they love, now with even greater clarity and coverage.”

The upgraded ROCK 95.5 will continue to serve up a mix of Classic, Alternative, and Modern Rock, anchored in the mornings by the syndicated “Rover’s Morning Glory” show.

Image Facebook

Until the flip, BILL 95 simulcast on both 95.5 and 95.3 FM, with “The Bobby Bones Show” in the morning. That programming will now continue exclusively on 95.3 FM, keeping the Country format alive in the market with a slightly reduced footprint.

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.

Peacock Partners With Big 12 Conference for Exclusive Streaming Slate of Basketball Games

BSM Staff
-
0
Peacock Partners With Big 12 Conference for Exclusive Streaming Slate of Basketball Games

NBC Sports is strengthening its college basketball portfolio with the addition of exclusive Big 12 men’s basketball games to Peacock beginning in Fall 2025. The streaming service will carry 20 regular-season contests annually as part of a new multi-year agreement between NBC Sports and the Big 12 Conference announced Tuesday.

The deal adds yet another high-profile property to Peacock’s growing slate of exclusive sports content. Each season, the service will feature 20 Big 12 matchups — both conference and non-conference — as NBCUniversal continues to position Peacock as a key player in the college sports streaming space.

“The Big 12 is thrilled to partner with NBC Sports and Peacock as we continue to expand access and coverage of Big 12 men’s basketball,” said Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark. “Alongside our portfolio of existing media partners, NBC Sports and Peacock will provide our league with unprecedented promotion and storytelling.”

The Big 12 joins an already deep lineup of college basketball on Peacock, including nearly 200 men’s and women’s games from the Big Ten and BIG EAST during the 2025-26 season. Additionally, NBC Sports will begin broadcasting NBA games starting in the 2025-26 season and WNBA games in 2026 — adding further value to the company’s rights portfolio.

“The Big 12 is one of the most successful conferences in college basketball, enjoying a recent run of excellence on top of a storied history for many of its prestigious programs,” said Rick Cordella, President of NBC Sports. “We look forward to partnering with the Big 12 to showcase its top-tier college basketball players, teams, and rivalries.”

The timing of the move coincides with the Big 12’s continued success on the court. Seven conference programs earned bids to the 2025 NCAA Tournament, with Houston, Iowa State, Texas Tech, Arizona, BYU, Kansas, and Baylor all making appearances. Four of those teams advanced to the Sweet 16, and Houston reached the Final Four — marking the fifth time in the last seven tournaments the Big 12 has had representation at that level.

The conference has won two national championships in the past five years, with Kansas taking the title in 2022 and Baylor cutting down the nets in 2021.

Peacock has rapidly grown its footprint in sports streaming, boasting nearly 100 million monthly active users according to comScore. The platform broke records with events like the first-ever streaming-exclusive NFL Playoff game in 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.

Cumulus Media and Rumble Ink Partnership to Bring Westwood One/Cumulus Podcast Network Shows to Platform

BNM Staff
-
0
Cumulus Media and Rumble Ink Partnership to Bring Westwood One/Cumulus Podcast Network Shows to Platform

Cumulus Media and Rumble have announced a new partnership that will bring Westwood One and Cumulus Podcast Network shows to the platform.

According to a statement from the two companies, the new agreement will “unlock new opportunities” for the entities.

As part of the agreement, Westwood One and Cumulus Podcast Network programs will see their video simulcasts made available on Rumble. Additionally, the two new partners will “collaborate to maximize advertising opportunities for brand partners,” a statement reads.

“This partnership represents a powerful alignment between two media innovators,” said Cumulus Media Executive Vice President of Corporate Strategy & Development and Westwood One President Collin Jones. “By combining our premium podcast inventory with Rumble’s dynamic creator ecosystem, we’re creating a new frontier for host-read advertising that delivers authenticity, scale, and brand safety.”

“We’re excited to partner with Cumulus Media and Westwood One to bring advertisers closer to the creators and audiences they care about,” added Rumble CEO Chris Pavlovski. “This collaboration allows us to create new monetization opportunities for our creators while offering brands a trusted and effective way to connect with engaged communities.”

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.

The Athletic Adds ‘The Sports Gossip Show’ to Podcast Network

BSM Staff
-
0
The Athletic Adds ‘The Sports Gossip Show’ to Podcast Network

The Sports Gossip Show podcast, hosted by Madeline Hill and Charlotte Wilder, has officially joined a growing slate of sports media podcasts on The Athletic, the duo announced Tuesday. The move marks a significant step forward for the show, which debuted in October 2024 and quickly carved out a unique niche in the crowded podcasting space by blending off-field storylines with smart, culturally aware commentary.

“We’re thrilled to be joining [The Athletic’s] network of engaging, informative and entertaining shows,” Hill and Wilder shared in a letter published by The Athletic. “We’re beyond excited to continue growing our audience with the help of its first-rate team and impressive platform.”

Every Tuesday and Thursday new episodes of The Sports Gossip Show shall be released. Video will be available on YouTube and audio streaming across all major podcast platforms.

While the word “gossip” may be in the title, the hosts have built their show on a foundation of journalistic rigor and reporting. From trade rumors to sideline drama to personal milestones making waves across social media, the podcast covers the human side of sports with a mix of levity, insight, and credibility.

Much of the reporting discussed on the show has even stemmed from The Athletic’s own newsroom—a synergy that made the partnership a natural fit.

Hill, a former entertainment strategist and creator of the sports Substack Impersonal Foul, brings expertise in how athletes shape their narratives online. Wilder, a veteran sportswriter and on-camera host, has spent more than a decade covering major events and examining the cultural impact of sports.

Together, the pair approach each episode with curiosity and humor, often using player storylines, off-the-field news, and even fashion and pop culture moments to frame deeper discussions around team dynamics and performance.

“It’s been a joy to hear from listeners who say they can finally participate in sports conversations at work or connect with their sports-obsessed spouses,” they said. “It’s been rewarding to hear from die-hard fans who get hooked and find themselves caring about florals at athletes’ weddings.”

The Sports Gossip Show aims to remain accessible for all fans—whether they’ve memorized every stat in the playbook or still believe Taylor Swift put Travis Kelce on the map.

The Athletic continues to expand its podcast presence by investing in diverse voices and formats that complement its editorial strengths. The outlet announced a multi-year licensing agreement with the Pablo Torre Finds Out podcast on Tuesday as well.

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.

1...777778779...2,893Page 778 of 2,893