Home Blog Page 85

Chris Cuomo: Jake Tapper Acted as ‘Simpering, Lisping Sycophant’ During Donald Trump Interview

Garrett Searight
-
0
Chris Cuomo: Jake Tapper Acted as ‘Simpering, Lisping Sycophant’ During Donald Trump Interview

Chris Cuomo criticized Jake Tapper’s interview with President Donald Trump after Sen. Lindsey Graham’s death. Cuomo argued the exchange reflected a broader media problem.

What We Know: Chris Cuomo used his podcast to sharply criticize Jake Tapper’s interview with President Donald Trump following the death of Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC). Cuomo accused Tapper of changing his approach when interviewing the president instead of maintaining the same level of scrutiny he displays elsewhere. He framed the criticism as part of a larger argument about journalism’s responsibility to consistently challenge those in power, regardless of political affiliation or access.

What They Said: “So here it is for Jake Tapper to sit there like a simpering lisping sycophant – ‘I’m the normal one, I’m on a normal path’ – I mean, you know when he talks about the president, you know he’s trying to be a tough guy. And when he’s talking to him, he’s a sycophant because he wants the ratings and he wants the access. That’s the reality of media … We’re here to test power. You do it to their face, and you do it to their back, ok? You should just be consistent.” -Chris Cuomo

What Remains Unclear: It’s unclear whether Jake Tapper will respond publicly to Cuomo’s criticism. Likewise, CNN hasn’t indicated whether it plans to address the comments or defend Tapper’s handling of the interview.

What It Means: Cuomo’s remarks underscore ongoing debate about how journalists should question high-profile political figures. His criticism also highlights continued scrutiny of television news personalities who balance tough interviews with the competitive pressures of securing ratings and access. As political coverage intensifies ahead of future election cycles, conversations about consistency, accountability, and journalistic independence will likely remain central across cable news.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Bill Handel: Paramount Skydance Lawyers Reasoning For Approval of Warner Bros. Discovery Merger Laughable

Garrett Searight
-
0
Bill Handel: Paramount Skydance Lawyers Reasoning For Approval of Warner Bros. Discovery Merger Laughable

Bill Handel is questioning the logic behind the Paramount Skydance merger. The longtime KFI-AM 640 host argued that consolidation doesn’t create more competition.

What We Know: Bill Handel devoted part of his morning show on KFI-AM 640 in Los Angeles to criticizing arguments surrounding the proposed Paramount Skydance merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. Specifically, he took issue with claims from attorneys representing Paramount Skydance that the combined company would increase competition. Handel argued the transaction would instead consolidate major media assets under one corporate umbrella, making it difficult to accept the legal rationale that the deal would benefit competition. He also pointed to the U.S. Department of Justice’s decision not to challenge the acquisition on antitrust grounds.

What They Said: “So explain to me how a merger between two companies increases competition. I don’t quite get that. For example, imagine Google buying Bing and then buying Boom and Bang—all tiny little browsers. How does that increase competition? Who are we kidding? I don’t know how they justify that. I really don’t. (Paramount Skydance) will include two news networks, CBS News and CNN. Two major studios, Paramount and Warner Bros. and two subscription streaming services, Paramount+ and HBO Max.

“Now, the Justice Department said it’s not challenging the acquisition because it’s not likely to harm competition or American consumers. How is that possible? How does a merger create more competition? A merger consolidates … You have two companies that are basically doing the same thing and competing with each other, combining them makes the market less competitive. Explain that one to me. I don’t get it.” -Bill Handel

What Remains Unclear: Neither Paramount Skydance nor Warner Bros. Discovery has publicly responded to Handel’s criticism. It’s also unclear whether additional regulatory scrutiny could emerge before the transaction reaches its final stages.

What It Means: Handel’s comments reflect broader skepticism surrounding media consolidation and antitrust enforcement. As radio hosts continue discussing major industry transactions, debates over competition, consumer choice, and the growing concentration of media ownership are likely to remain front-and-center.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Phil Becker Named CMG Radio VP Audience Content Growth

David Hill
-
0
Phil Becker Named CMG Radio VP Audience Content Growth

Cox Media Group has named Phil Becker VP of Audience & Content Growth. He starts July 20 in a newly created role.

What We Know: Becker will lead CMG Radio’s audience growth strategy across broadcast, streaming, podcasting, social media, and emerging platforms. He’ll work closely with programming leaders and market managers. His focus includes expanding reach, strengthening content performance, and elevating on-air talent. Notably, Becker has served as a weekly columnist for Barrett Media since October 2025, with his final column set to appear on the site this Wednesday.

What They Said: CMG Radio President Rob Babin welcomed the hire enthusiastically. “Phil brings a strong and unique combination of audience expertise, content leadership, and a passion for developing talent,” Babin said. “His experience and audience-first approach will help strengthen our brands and position CMG Radio for continued growth.”

What Remains Unclear: It’s not yet known how this role will integrate with existing programming leadership. Furthermore, specific markets or brands targeted for early audience growth initiatives haven’t been identified. The reporting structure beyond Babin also remains undefined publicly.

What It Means: CMG Radio is making a deliberate bet on centralized audience strategy. Becker’s background at Alpha Media — overseeing content across 42 markets and 200-plus brands — gives him rare operational scale. Moreover, this hire signals that CMG views multi-platform growth as a C-suite priority.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Elvis Duran Launches Podrophenia Podcast Company With Paul Heyman

David Hill
-
0
Elvis Duran Launches Podrophenia Podcast Company With Paul Heyman

A new podcast and vodcast company called Podrophenia launched today in New York. The venture brings together broadcasting, entertainment, and production heavyweights under one roof.

What We Know: Podrophenia is a creator development company founded through a partnership between the Elvis Duran Group, Looking4Larry, and MCM Studios. Key players include Elvis Duran, WWE Hall of Famer Paul Heyman, Emmy Award-winning producer Mitchell Stuart, and media entrepreneur Michael Canzoniero. The company operates out of MCM Studios’ Manhattan production facility. It offers premium production, show development, audience growth, marketing, and distribution services.

What They Said: “Podrophenia is the first studio specifically customized to the host’s personality and also the concept,” said Heyman. “We’re not just building a content hub for creators — we’re building a creator hub for the content.” That positioning signals a deliberate departure from the turnkey studio model currently dominating the space.

What Remains Unclear: Specific pricing, partnership terms, and creator acquisition strategies haven’t been publicly disclosed. The company announced original programming is coming, but only one show — Hello Randy, hosted by Randy Fenoli — has been confirmed. A premiere date and full distribution details remain pending.

What It Means: Podrophenia enters a crowded podcast market with a notable advantage — direct access to iHeartMedia’s massive audio ecosystem through Elvis Duran’s existing relationship. That connection gives the venture immediate distribution scale most startups can’t match. Still, execution will determine whether star power translates into sustainable creator success.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Conor McGregor Teams With FOX Nation, Bare Knuckle Fighting For New Competition Series

John Mamola
-
0
Conor McGregor Teams With FOX Nation, Bare Knuckle Fighting For New Competition Series

FOX Nation is entering the combat sports arena. The streamer has partnered with Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) and Conor McGregor for an original tournament series launching in the summer of 2027.

What We Know: FOX Nation announced a new competitive fight sport program entitled World’s Baddest Man. A documentary competition series will premiere on the network in summer 2027. McGregor, BKFC’s co-owner, hosts and stars as fighters battle through a bracket-style tournament. Additionally, the winner-take-all event carries an eight-figure prize pool. Kiss Fly Productions produces, with McGregor, David Feldman, and others serving as executive producers.

What They Said: Lauren Petterson, president of FOX Nation: “Conor McGregor is one of the most recognizable figures in combat sports. We’re excited to partner with him on a bold new original series unlike any other. World’s Baddest Man combines premium documentary storytelling with world-class competition. Providing FOX Nation subscribers unprecedented access to unique athletes while showcasing the grit, determination and heart required to compete for one of the biggest prizes in combat sports.”

Conor McGregor: “BKFC has changed the game of combat sports. I couldn’t be more excited to partner with FOX Nation and unleash The World’s Baddest Man Tournament. This tournament will bring together the toughest fighters on the planet in a true test of heart, grit, and willpower, and I’m proud to be part of something that will set a new standard for what it means to be the baddest man in the world.”

What Remains Unclear: FOX Nation hasn’t released a specific premiere date. Also, full fighter roster remains unannounced, as does episode count.

What It Means: The deal signals FOX Nation’s push into scripted-style sports entertainment beyond news personalities. Moreover, McGregor’s star power could draw new subscribers curious about combat sports storytelling. Meanwhile, BKFC gains a major streaming showcase, extending its reach beyond traditional pay-per-view audiences. Earlier this month, FOX Nation presented an exclusive two-part documentary, UFC Fight House: The Making of the Biggest Fight in History surrounding the UFC’s event at the White House in June.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

The Hill, NewsNation Unveil Hill Nation Summit Speaker Lineup

Garrett Searight
-
0
The Hill, NewsNation Unveil Hill Nation Summit Speaker Lineup

The Hill and NewsNation have revealed the speaker lineup for the second annual Hill Nation Summit. The bipartisan event returns to Washington on July 15 with prominent political leaders and policymakers.

What We Know: NewsNation and The Hill announced the full speaker roster for the second annual Hill Nation Summit, a day-long event designed to bring together influential voices from both major political parties. The July 15 gathering in Washington, D.C., will feature members of President Donald Trump’s administration, congressional leaders, and policy experts discussing many of the country’s biggest issues. Cabinet officials scheduled to appear include Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, Education Secretary Linda McMahon, Housing & Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner, and Medicare and Medicaid Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. Additionally, the event will include appearances from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, RNC Chairman Joe Gruters, and lawmakers from both parties, including Sens. John Fetterman, Ron Johnson, and Gary Peters.

What’s At Stake: Organizers hope to build on the inaugural summit’s momentum by creating another forum for bipartisan conversations during a politically charged environment. Topics will include artificial intelligence, health care, energy, the economy, and the nation’s fiscal outlook. Meanwhile, attendees will also receive a preview of The Hill Insider, the outlet’s upcoming premium digital subscription service, along with a live edition of the Whole Hog Politics podcast.

What Remains Unclear: The announcement doesn’t specify the discussion formats, whether additional speakers could join before the event, or if any major policy announcements are expected. Likewise, organizers haven’t detailed how much of the summit will be available to viewers beyond those attending in person.

What It Means: The Hill Nation Summit continues to strengthen the partnership between The Hill and NewsNation while expanding both brands’ presence in live political events. Furthermore, the lineup reflects an effort to attract high-profile government officials and lawmakers from both parties, giving the organizations another opportunity to generate news-making interviews ahead of a busy political season.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Tony Reali: Goal Was To Invent His Next Job Following Around the Horn Cancelation

John Mamola
-
0
Tony Reali: Goal Was To Invent His Next Job Following Around the Horn Cancelation

Tony Reali has a new home with iHeartMedia. The longtime ESPN host debuted Real Deal with Tony Reali on iHeartPodcasts Tuesday and discussed his path to the new venture following the cancelation of Around the Horn.

What We Know: Reali hosted ESPN’s Around the Horn for more than two decades before its cancelation. He also served as “Stat Boy” on Pardon the Interruption throughout that run. Today, iHeartPodcasts and his own Real Ones Media launched Real Deal with Tony Reali. New episodes will release weekly on Tuesdays across the iHeartRadio app and other platforms. In the debut episode, Reali opened up about his journey on a personal level following the cancelation of Around the Horn.

What They Said: (All quotes via Real Deal with Tony Reali)

Tony Reali on taking a step back following the end of Around the Horn on ESPN: “I worked on being still. Being still is something I’m still learning how to how to be. I thought I was going to be the type of person I said goodbye on one show, I’d be doing the next show the next day. Every fiber of my being wanted that to be the case too. This is when I decided to listen to other people in my life, and I’m so grateful I did.”

Tony Reali says he aimed to create his next show: “People are like, ‘Oh how’s the job search going?’ I wasn’t searching for a job, looking high and low for a job. What I was looking for was myself. I was looking for was how is the job invention going? I want to invent the next job. That’s how I was operating in my head, just knowing who I am as a person, as a tinkerer or creative.”

Tony Reali on battling the emotions of ending Around the Horn: “It was a challenge for someone like myself. It hurts to lose something you love. I wanted to sit in that for a little bit. Which is not to say I want in a masochistic way. Please hurt me, hurt me, hurt me. No, that’s not a good thing. But, it is a real thing. It’s a full thing, and I want to be honest to what those feelings are. I wanted to then kind of whittle that into something I could use going forward.”

What Remains Unclear: iHeartMedia hasn’t detailed episode length or confirmed a full guest lineup yet. It’s also unclear how closely Real Deal will echo any of Around the Horn’s debate format versus a looser conversational style. Reali’s own description in the release, calling it “more Tony… still Tony… and a new Tony,” suggests some blending either way.

What It Means: Real Deal marks Reali’s first venture since Around the Horn ended. Consequently, it signals a broader shift toward creator-led sports media beyond traditional television. Reali noted that he believes digital is the new frontier for sports content, and he spent time in between educating himself on the medium. Reali’s presence is an instant boost for iHeartPodcasts, landing an established, trusted voice adds credibility to its growing sports lineup. Ultimately, the launch tests whether legacy broadcast personalities can thrive in a giant pool of creator-led content options on digital.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Scripps Sports Signs Rights Agreement for U.S. 2027 Women’s Volleyball World Cup

John Mamola
-
0
Scripps Sports Signs Rights Agreement for U.S. 2027 Women’s Volleyball World Cup

ION will broadcast every match of the 2027 FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Cup. The Scripps-owned network struck the deal with Volleyball World and the tournament’s organizing committee.

What We Know: Volleyball World, the 2027 FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Cup Organizing Committee and Scripps Sports signed an exclusive U.S. broadcast agreement. In addition, all 64 games will air on ION and Scripps Sports platforms, in English and Spanish. Horizon Sports & Experiences facilitated the deal as the tournament’s exclusive sponsorship and media rights agency. ION reaches more than 126 million households. Moreover, this event adds to a women’s sports portfolio that already includes the WNBA, NWSL, PWHL and PWR.

What They Said: Brian Lawlor, president of Scripps Sports: “The FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Cup is a premier global tournament that showcases the incredible athleticism and competitive intensity of the world’s best volleyball players. We’re thrilled and honored to bring the 2027 event to ION and to the millions of loyal and passionate volleyball fans across the United States.”

Craig Thompson, CEO of the FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Cup 2027: “This agreement represents an unprecedented level of U.S. distribution for the FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Cup. [It’s] a defining moment for the sport in this market. The world’s best athletes, competing in one of the most dynamic and compelling sports on the planet, will have an extraordinary platform to reach millions of fans across the country. It’s a tremendous opportunity to introduce new audiences to the power and excitement of women’s volleyball. Building a new generation of fans.”

David Levy, co-CEO and Founder, Horizon Sports & Experiences: “The FIVB Women’s Volleyball World Cup has all the components that make for great television. Elite competition, a passionate, global fan base, and significant potential for advertisers and sponsors. Securing this rights deal with Scripps and ION elevates the sport to new heights. Also creates new commercial opportunities, and provides the athletes with a significant platform for their matches. We look forward to working closely with FIVB and ION to continue to build upon the momentum for this event.”

What Remains Unclear: Broadcast schedules and game-by-game assignments across ION and Scripps platforms remain unannounced.

What It Means: The agreement adds another property to the growing women’s sports catalog for Scripps Sports. The deal significantly expands volleyball’s U.S. television footprint ahead of the tournament. Moreover, thirty-two national teams will compete in August and September 2027. In conclusion, the top three unqualified finishers earning LA28 Olympic berths.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Advertiser Interest in Podcasting Hits 12-Year High Despite Gap in Actual Spend

John Mamola
-
0
Advertiser Interest in Podcasting Hits 12-Year High Despite Gap in Actual Spend

Advertiser interest in podcasting has never been higher. However, new research shows a growing gap between enthusiasm and actual dollars spent.

What We Know: According to new data from Westwood One’s Audio Active Group, advertiser Perceptions surveyed 300 marketers and agencies in June 2026. Results show 93% have discussed podcast advertising as a potential investment. Meanwhile, only 76% currently advertise in podcasts, and 74% plan to in the next six months. That spending-intention figure has grown sevenfold since 2015, when only 10% of brands considered podcasts.

What The Data Shows: (Image via Westwood One)

What Remains Unclear: Despite rising interest, spending remains modest. Magellan’s Q1 2026 Podcast Advertising Benchmark Report found top-500 show advertisers spent just $364,000 monthly on average. New advertisers spent even less, averaging $32,300 in Q1. Researchers say that falls short of what’s needed to build brands or drive measurable sales.

What It Means: Podcasting has clearly won over the ad industry’s attention. However, converting that interest into meaningful budget commitments remains the harder task. As competition for ad dollars intensifies across digital platforms, the industry’s next challenge involves closing the gap between curiosity and real investment. Hesitancy may be linked possibly to how people are consuming podcasts and which podcasts are taking up the majority of the listening versus which are not.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

James Brown Not Ready To Retire From CBS Sports ‘The NFL Today’

John Mamola
-
0
James Brown Not Ready To Retire From CBS Sports ‘The NFL Today’

CBS Sports’ host James Brown says he’s not done yet with his role on The NFL Today. In a recent profile with Sports Business Journal, he revealed new details behind his 2005 FOX Sports exit, and addressed retirement from his CBS Sports role.

What We Know: Brown left FOX Sports after the 2005 season and returned to CBS Sports. He’s been hosting The NFL Today ever since, nearing two decades in the chair. His comments came via an exclusive Sports Business Journal feature. Brown was an inductee of the 2026 class of the NSMA Hall of Fame. Brown began his national broadcasting career at WUSA-TV in Washington, D.C., after playing basketball at Harvard University, where he was a three-time All-Ivy League selection. He previously spent 12 seasons as host of FOX NFL Sunday and covered multiple professional and collegiate sports for CBS. Brown’s accolades include three Emmy Awards and the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Pete Rozelle Award in 2016.

What They Said: (All quotes via Sports Business Journal)

James Brown on retirement from his post on The NFL Today at CBS Sports: “I’m not being dismissive of that which I’m doing, because I love what I’m doing. But Marilyn Hickey, before she passed away, people were asking her why she didn’t retire. She said: Retirement is not in the Bible. Whatever gifts and talents I’ve been given, I want to use them to the fullest. When it’s my time to go, I don’t want people looking over, as the proverbial story is, to see all that talent that was unused in the grave. I want to give it all. Whatever that may be.”

James Brown on why he decided to leave FOX Sports following the 2005 NFL season: “I wasn’t asking for anything ridiculous; just wanted it to be fair. I was low man on the totem pole financially, but I understood. I had to prove myself. It’s all about being a good team player. But my colleagues, once or twice during the time of their deals, were always able to bump up. I just waited for mine. We had a great thing going. I will delicately say, I would never have left the show and wasn’t thinking of leaving the show.”

What Remains Unclear: Exact figures from Brown’s talks with FOX Sports in 2005 are unknown. Also, Brown did not share how much longer he’s considering hosting in his role at CBS Sports. Several reports had Brown working on an extension with CBS Sports last summer.

What It Means: James Brown is an NFL gameday institution. He’s been a part of NFL Sundays for nearly three decades on multiple networks. Even at 75, Brown is still performing at the top of his game. This season, he’ll be working with two new faces in Kyle Long and Russell Wilson at the desk. The NFL Today has undergone significant turnover in recent years. However, with Nate Burleson transitioning to CBS Mornings in a hosting capacity, he likely could be Brown’s successor in waiting.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

1...848586...2,759Page 85 of 2,759