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Nick Wright Not Shy To Punch Down at Kevin Kietzman Following Patrick Mahomes ‘Fat’ Commentary

BSM Staff
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Nick Wright Not Shy To Punch Down at Kevin Kietzman Following Patrick Mahomes ‘Fat’ Commentary

Former Sports Radio 810 WHB host Kevin Kietzman caused some controversy Monday as part of a commentary he issued regarding new photos of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. The Kansas City radio personality criticized Mahomes’ physique in the photos released online by Page Six, saying the three-time Super Bowl champion is “fat.”

“I’m gonna say it and I’m gonna tell you the truth, that’s why you hit the play button. He’s an embarrassment,” said Kietzman on his podcast Kevin Kietzman Has Issues. “You’re a $500 million quarterback. You’ve made all these comments in the offseason that, ‘we’re gonna do our talking on the field. We got our butts kicked in the Super Bowl. We’re coming back with a vengeance.’ Dude, you’re fat.”

Meanwhile, FS1 host and commentator Nick Wright, who once competed against Kietzman in the Kansas City radio market, took issue with his former competitor’s comments. He also recalled their rivalry as a “blood feud” when Wright hosted local sports radio in Kansas City.

“That son of a bi**h. I hated him so much. Oh, my goodness gracious,” said Wright during an appearance on The Dan Le Batard Show. “And people are like, ‘Oh Nick don’t you’re punching down.’ No, it will never feel like punching down. It’s a bad dude who was bad for my city.”

In addition, Wright described how Kietzman once likened him to the “Jacksonville Jaguars” while casting himself as the “New England Patriots,” mocking Wright at every turn. The FS1 host then detailed how he celebrated the moment when he beat Kietzman in the ratings over 15 years ago.

“When I finally beat him in the ratings 15 years ago, as a kid, I held the listener party at his radio station’s restaurant,” recalled Wright. “10 years later, he owned the radio station. He got forced out because of a horrific thing he said about Andy Reid of a place he owned. So, he did what every low IQ, not that talented, but I like talking into the radio guy does. Which is make the turn to Neanderthal politics, and that’s been like his little niche.”

When asked why he still feels the way he does about Kietzman, Wright explained that it’s hard to let those feelings go after so many years.

“I try to think I’m an intensely loyal guy. I will, even at times to my own detriment, try to back my people,” said Wright. “If you’re not that, you [Kietzman] hit the trifecta. Being a bad person, being dishonest, and the thing that’s worse than all those, totally and wholly untalented. I just never let it go.”

Kietzman attempted to clarify his statements on Mahomes during Wednesday’s episode of his podcast. He claimed that his comments were taken out of context on social media and by online publications. Furthermore, he volunteered to be “the bad guy” and serve as bulletin board material for Mahomes and the Chiefs. Kietzman currently hosts a one-hour weekday show on KCMO Talk Radio in Kansas City.

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.

77 WABC Owner John Catsimatidis: ‘We’re Going to Be Buying A Lot of Stations in the Northeast’

BNM Staff
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77 WABC Owner John Catsimatidis: ‘We’re Going to Be Buying A Lot of Stations in the Northeast’

77 WABC owner John Catsimatidis has previously said that potential acquisitions could be on the horizon. Now, he’s trying to turn those statements into reality.

During an appearance with Sid Rosenberg on the station’s morning show, Catsimatidis said he’s interested in purchasing more stations to expand the reach of 77 WABC.

“We’re going to be buying a lot of stations in the Northeast,” said Catsimatidis. “Whatever is an opportunity, we’re going to be buying it. And we’re going to be syndicating our own station. The flagship station is WABC Radio in New York.”

Catsimatidis later added that he would be interested in stations “only if they’ll sell them to us for nothing.”

“How do you say ‘Have check, will travel’?” he joked.

The news of interest in buying more stations comes after Red Apple Media — parent company of the New York news/talk station — acquired 1700 WRCR in suburban Rockland County, New York earlier this year.

It isn’t the first time John Catsimatidis has shared his intention to purchase additional stations. Catsimatidis previously stated that he felt he was near a purchase of the 880 WCBS signal before Audacy inked an agreement with Good Karma Brands to move ESPN New York to the signal.

When Rosenberg asked if John Catsimatidis would be interested in stations in South Florida, in addition to those in New York and the surrounding Northeastern states, the 77 WABC owner said the company is “looking at a few things” in the area.

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SportsRadio 610 ‘Reggie and Ron Radiothon’ Raise Over $27K for Houston Food Bank

BSM Staff
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SportsRadio 610 ‘Reggie and Ron Radiothon’ Raise Over $27K for Houston Food Bank

SportsRadio 610, Houston’s Audacy-owned sports station, turned its airwaves into a force for good, raising $27,240 during its inaugural “Reggie and Ron Radiothon” to benefit the Houston Food Bank. The all-day broadcast held July 3 was hosted by midday personality Reggie Adetula of In the Loop and afternoon drive co-host Ron Hughley of The Drive with Stoerner and Hughley.

The event featured 12 hours of live content, special guests, and listener-driven donation challenges, with every dollar raised going toward fighting food insecurity across southeast Texas.

“We are committed to using our voice to make a difference in the Houston community and are incredibly proud of the outcome of our first ‘Reggie and Ron Radiothon,’” said Parker Hillis, Brand Manager for SportsRadio 610. “Our listeners stepped up to fight food insecurity, showing the deep connection they have with our station and our city.”

Houston Food Bank President and CEO Brian Greene credited the station and its audience for their generosity, noting the significant impact of the funds raised.

“We thank Audacy, SportsRadio 610, and everyone who participated in the Radiothon to make this inaugural event a huge success,” Greene said. “$27,240 provides 81,720 meals for those facing food insecurity. Now more than ever, the Food Bank needs and appreciates this help.”

The broadcast featured appearances from Houston Food Bank’s Chief Development Officer and included a series of lighthearted but meaningful donation games. Personalities from Audacy sister stations joined the effort, including Tucker “Frito” Young and Katy Dempsey of 100.3 The Bull, who challenged the hosts to their “Money Minute” game. Jessie Watt from Mix 96.5 also made an appearance with her “College of Hollywood Knowledge” trivia challenge—each resulting in $100 donations from the losing participants.

SportsRadio 610’s “Reggie and Ron Radiothon” is a part of Audacy’s commitment to making a meaningful difference at scale. Audacy uses its reach and personal connection with listeners to advance causes that promote strong mental health and build sound communities.

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X CEO Linda Yaccarino Announces Exit

BNM Staff
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X CEO Linda Yaccarino Announces Exit

X CEO Linda Yaccarino has announced her decision to step down today, closing a chapter for the social media platform. She joined the company in June 2023, following Elon Musk’s 2022 acquisition.

“After two incredible years, I’ve decided to step down as CEO of X,” she shared in a post to the platform. “When (Elon Musk) and I first spoke of his vision for X, I knew it would be the opportunity of a lifetime to carry out the extraordinary mission of this company. I’m immensely grateful to him for entrusting me with the responsibility of protecting free speech, turning the company around, and transforming X into the Everything App.”

Yaccarino was recruited from NBCUniversal, where she led global advertising for over a decade. She inherited the X platform in turmoil, with weakening ad revenue and heightened brand safety concerns.

During her tenure, X introduced a wave of product innovations. Linda Yaccarino helped push new subscription models and expanded video-hosting features. She also spearheaded payment integrations and creator monetization to diversify revenue.

She led an aggressive advertising outreach campaign. Many major brands paused ads over content safety issues. Under her guidance, some returned after brand-safety safeguards were introduced.

Under Yaccarino’s watch, Musk’s vision of transforming Twitter into an “everything app” gained momentum. Early in 2025, her leadership coincided with the acquisition of X by Musk’s xAI in a stock deal.

“I’ll be cheering you all on as you continue to change the world,” she concluded.

It remains unclear who will succeed Yaccarino or when the transition will officially occur. Her departure comes one day after Grok — the AI bot developed and utilized by the platform — was seen praising Adolf Hitler and ranting about “Jewish surnames” after it received an update over the weekend.

In a succinct post addressing the resignation of Linda Yaccarino, Elon Musk stated, “Thank you for your contributions.”

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.

Tim Hager Appointed Chief Operating Officer at Pillar Media

BMM Staff
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Tim Hager Appointed Chief Operating Officer at Pillar Media

Tim Hager has been appointed Chief Operating Officer for Pillar Media to succeed Dick Whitworth who is retiring.

Hagar arrives from the Puerto Rico-based Capital Advisors. He was the President of the Rocky Mountain division for iHeartMedia from 2014 to 2020. He also held sales roles in St. Louis and Madison, WI.

Hager said, “I am truly thrilled and honored to become part of the incredible team at Pillar Media. I deeply respect the talented individuals behind the remarkable brand of Pillar Media, and I am beyond excited to see how the Lord will use my life experiences to contribute to this role and impact people with the Gospel. This opportunity is only possible through God’s grace, and I am profoundly grateful for it.”

Pillar Executive Director Art Garza commented, “We are excited to welcome Tim Hager as chief operating officer of Pillar Media. His proven leadership in media, executive experience and heart for ministry make him an ideal fit to help advance our mission. We are also deeply grateful for Dick Whitworth’s years of faithful service, steady leadership and lasting impact. We thank God for his continued guidance and support during this transition.”

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.

Hannah Brummer Named 2025 MIW Programming Mentee

BMM Staff
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Hannah Brummer Named 2025 MIW Programming Mentee

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio, Inc. (MIW) has selected Hannah Brummer—a.k.a. Hannah B—as the 2025 recipient of its Elevating Women in Programming Mentorship.

Brummer holds multiple roles at Alpha Media in suburban Chicago. Including midday host on simulcast “Free Country Chicago.” She is also Assistant Content Director and evening personality for Star 105.5 and Star 96.7.

“With women making up just 12% of Program Directors, MIW is committed to growing the next generation of female leaders,” said MIW Board Member Leslie Scott. “Hannah’s drive and leadership potential make her a standout.”

Brummer shared her excitement, saying:

“I’m absolutely thrilled and deeply honored to be selected as this year’s recipient of the MIW Elevating Women in Programming Mentorship. This truly feels like a dream come true! I’ve been eager to find new ways to grow both as a programmer and a leader. And this mentorship is the perfect opportunity. I’m so grateful for the chance to learn from and be inspired by such an incredible group of women in our industry!”

Now in its seventh year, the mentorship provides one-on-one guidance, industry access, and a pass to the 2026 NAB Show in Las Vegas.

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.

Dan Patrick: No One Cares About Radio Ratings Anymore

BSM Staff
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Dan Patrick: No One Cares About Radio Ratings Anymore

Veteran broadcaster Dan Patrick joined Barstool Sports’ Pardon My Take from Lake Tahoe and provided some added clarity on his upcoming retirement in radio — and some honest thoughts about how the radio industry has changed. Patrick, 69, reiterated that his current contract with FOX Sports Radio will be his last and that he expects to fully retire in about two and a half years. But he pushed back on the idea of a “retirement tour.”

“I said this would be the last contract I was going to sign,” Patrick explained to hosts Big Cat and PFT Commenter. “I didn’t mean for it to be a four-year retirement tour. I won’t be working [after that]. I’ll be strictly Sandler movies.”

The conversation also touched on the evolution of traditional radio metrics, in particular the radio ratings system and it’s importance in the industry today. Patrick, who’s spent decades in terrestrial radio, admitted ratings now feel outdated.

“I never really looked at YouTube like McAfee does. But those numbers — that’s really all that matters now,” Patrick said. “I’ve been with terrestrial radio all my life, and you keep thinking of those ratings. Now, nobody cares about that. They care about social media, what went viral, and the number of people watching clips.

Patrick went on to explain that as long as he’s been in traditional radio, he still has little to no understanding of the ratings game. He also voiced frustration with how decisions are made at the affiliate level.

“You could be told you’re killing it in a market, then suddenly they go local,” explained Patrick. “I don’t like being beholden to that, because you have a lot of people who are in radio who are your bosses who probably haven’t done radio. I think it’s unfair sometimes they project to what you should be doing, or why aren’t you doing or why haven’t you asked. When you’re in the chair they’re live bullets, it’s just different.”

Patrick went on to explain that following his final program he still will be involved in broadcasting with his Dan Patrick School of Broadcasting on the Full Sail University campus in Orlando, and will be involved in some other projects as well. Patrick said he’s looking forward to life outside the studio in retirement, including moving to Italy and learning Italian, spending time with grandkids, and fishing at his home in Maine.

“I’ve been working 5-6-7 days a week for almost 35 years. It’s time,” said Patrick. “There was a period I really struggled. I was going through health issues. I leaned on my producer Paulie more than I ever had before. I couldn’t remember names during the show — Albert Pujols, Tom Izzo — and I panicked,” Patrick said. “It made me realize I don’t want to be that guy.”

While his countdown clock is ticking, Patrick remains focused on preparing his team — the Danettes — for their next steps. “I rely on them more than I ever have, on and off the air,” Patrick said. “I want them ready for whatever comes after this.”

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NewsNation and The Hill Prepare Congressional Summit Featuring Speaker of the House Mike Johnson

BNM Staff
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NewsNation and The Hill Prepare Congressional Summit Featuring Speaker of the House Mike Johnson

NewsNation and The Hill have announced plans to host a summit with Congressional leaders next week, including Speaker of the House Mike Johnson.

On Wednesday, July 16th, Hill Nation Summit will be held from 8 AM to 5 PM ET in Washington, D.C.

The summit will feature Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA), as well as several other prominent lawmakers like Reps. Jim Jordan (R-OH) and Ted Lieu (D-CA), and former Vice Chair of the Democratic National Committee David Hogg and former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy, among numerous others.

“For more than 30 years, The Hill has been a critical player on the Washington political scene and one of the country’s premier sources of political news,” said Bill Sammon, Senior Vice President of editorial content for The Hill and NewsNation. “The ‘Hill Nation Summit’ will foster a community where those in the know and those with influence will have the opportunity to meet and discuss the major events shaping the country and the future of American politics and policy.”

“NewsNation’s political coverage is powered by The Hill and this summit will spotlight the strength of this collaborative partnership and our robust reporting in Washington,” added The Hill and NewsNation President of News & Politics Cherie Grzech. “We are extremely honored to host this extraordinary event.”

Contributors from both The Hill and NewsNation will participate, including Blake Burman, Leland Vittert, Chris Cillizza, and Markie Martin. NewsNation coverage will include featuring programming on its Morning in America, The Hill, and Cuomo programs throughout the day.

Meanwhile, the entire day’s events will be streamed live on TheHill.com and will also be available on the outlet’s FAST channel.

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FOX Sports Sells Out MLB All-Star Game Commercial Inventory

BSM Staff
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FOX Sports Sells Out MLB All-Star Game Commercial Inventory

FOX Sports has sold out its commercial inventory for the 2025 Major League Baseball All-Star Game, setting a new benchmark for demand tied to the annual Midsummer Classic.

According to Mark Evans, Executive Vice President of Ad Sales for FOX Sports, the network secured full sell-out status by early June—an entire month ahead of the July 15 broadcast from Atlanta’s Truist Park. That marks the earliest ad sell-out in recent memory and reflects the growing value of live sports in the streaming era.

“Sell-out is usually right before the game in July,” Evans said in a recent interview. “We were sold out in the beginning of June—a full month earlier.”

FOX expects to run close to 80 commercials during the broadcast. However, demand has also spilled over into less predictable elements of the game, including inventory tied to pitching changes or potential extra innings. Despite the uncertainty of those slots ever airing, they, too, have been spoken for.

Evans noted that this year’s game is expected to generate record ad revenue for FOX, with 30-second spots fetching between $750,000 and $800,000 according to Variety. That would make the 2025 edition one of the most lucrative in the network’s history covering the All-Star Game.

“We’re seeing interest from restaurants, retailers, and pharmaceutical companies in particular,” said Evans. He suggested that seasonal campaigns, including summer promotions and back-to-school messaging, are helping drive that enthusiasm.

The strong marketplace comes as live sports continue to outperform traditional TV programming in the eyes of advertisers. As scripted network content struggles to maintain viewership, sports broadcasts—especially marquee events like the All-Star Game—are drawing quicker commitments and higher rates. MasterCard and other familiar brands will be part of the mix, but viewers may also notice an expanded footprint from new categories eager to attach themselves to one of baseball’s biggest nights.

With momentum from the All-Star Game carrying into the second half of the MLB season, FOX is already positioning itself for another strong performance in October when postseason coverage begins.

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Dan Orlovsky Officially Signs Multi-Year Extension at ESPN

BSM Staff
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Dan Orlovsky Officially Signs Multi-Year Extension at ESPN

Dan Orlovsky has signed a new multi-year deal with ESPN, securing his place as one of the network’s lead NFL analysts for years to come. The news, first reported by The Athletic last month, ensures the Emmy-nominated personality, known for his charismatic delivery and detailed breakdowns, will continue to serve as a key voice across ESPN’s NFL coverage.

Orlovsky remains a fixture on NFL Live, a contributor to Monday Night Football during select weeks, and a familiar presence across the network’s most-watched studio shows.

Now entering his sixth full season on NFL Live, Orlovsky joins an ensemble cast that includes Ryan Clark, Mina Kimes, Marcus Spears, and host Laura Rutledge. The show has seen a significant boost in ratings and industry recognition in recent years, culminating in the group earning the Sports Emmy for Outstanding Studio Show earlier this spring.

In addition to his weekday studio responsibilities, Orlovsky will once again handle Monday Night Football analyst duties during weeks when ESPN produces multiple games. He’ll be in the booth alongside analyst Louis Riddick and play-by-play voice Chris Fowler. This year’s five-game stretch kicks off in Week 2 with the Chargers facing the Raiders and continues in Weeks 4, 6, 7 and 18.

Beyond those roles, the former NFL quarterback will maintain a regular footprint on Get Up, First Take, The Pat McAfee Show, and SportsCenter, continuing to be one of ESPN’s most visible and versatile talents.

Orlovsky’s rise in sports media began shortly after his playing career ended in 2017. Leveraging social media to post breakdowns of offensive schemes and quarterback play, he quickly garnered attention and was hired by ESPN in 2018. He later expanded into college football game analysis and various studio roles before solidifying himself as a go-to NFL mind.

A former fifth-round pick of the Detroit Lions in 2005, Orlovsky played 12 seasons in the NFL, also spending time with the Texans, Colts and Buccaneers. The Connecticut native played his college football at UConn and now resides in-state.

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