Scotty Kay is adding another market to his afternoon lineup. The Audacy Country host is expanding to 103.7 KSON San Diego starting Monday.
What We Know: Kay currently hosts afternoons at WUSN Chicago and 102.9 The Wolf KMNB Minneapolis. He also anchors Sunday middays across all of Audacy’s Country outlets. Previously, he held afternoons at 107.7 The Wolf WLKK Buffalo before that station flipped to Sports. At KSON, he fills the slot vacated by Kimo Jensen, who retired in June.
What They Said: Kay made his enthusiasm clear on Instagram. He wrote, “San Diego… I can’t wait to laugh with you every afternoon starting Monday on 103.7 KSON. I know I have some big shoes to fill following the amazing Kimo, and I’m incredibly honored to join such a talented, passionate team at such a legendary station.”
What Remains Unclear: It is unknown whether Kay’s expanding role reflects a broader Audacy strategy to consolidate Country talent across markets. Additionally, no announcement has been made about how his Buffalo absence will be filled or whether that shift is permanent.
What It Means: Audacy is leaning into its hub-and-spoke programming model in Country. Kay — who started at iHeartMedia CHR Kiss-FM Chicago as “Special K” before co-hosting mornings in Atlanta and Dallas — now voices three markets daily. His WUSN tenure dates to 2019. KSON is one of Country radio’s most storied brands, and placing a proven in-house voice there signals confidence in Kay’s ability to connect beyond the Midwest.
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B103.9 (WXKB) Fort Myers has a new morning voice. Sun Broadcasting has tabbed Christian “Choff” Hoffer to lead the station’s 6–10 a.m. weekday shift alongside co-host Marija Puidak.
What We Know: Hoffer fills the morning seat vacated by Jason “Budman” Paige, who departed in May. He currently pulls double duty — hosting nights at Hot AC 96.9 WINK-FM Fort Myers and afternoons at CHR Z99 (ZFZZ-FM) in Grand Cayman. Previously, he spent three years on nights at CHR 94.7 Hits-FM (WYUL) in Chateaugay, NY. Earlier stops include iHeartMedia Country B93.7 (WBCT) and CHR 104.5 WSNX in Grand Rapids from 2017 to 2020.
What They Said: Hoffer marked the occasion on social media. “My radio journey started in Grand Rapids, MI about a decade ago when @stickradio gave me my first shot on the air,” he said. “Since then I’ve held numerous day parts at a ton of great stations around the US, Canada, and beyond — but starting today I officially get to begin earning my morning show stripes. We are brewing up an epic show to wake SWFL up proper from 6–10am Monday–Friday.”
What Remains Unclear: No word yet on any additional changes to B103.9’s overall lineup. It is also unclear whether Hoffer will eventually step away from his roles at WINK-FM and Z99 as the morning show builds momentum.
What It Means: This is a significant step for Hoffer. Morning radio is the highest-profile daypart, and landing the chair marks a clear career milestone. For B103.9, the hire brings continuity — Hoffer is already embedded in the Fort Myers market. Together, he and Puidak now have the opportunity to build something with real staying power in Southwest Florida.
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Brendan Carr defended the FCC’s authority over broadcast television. He argued Congress established unique obligations for broadcasters.
What We Know: FCC Chairman Brendan Carr appeared on CNBC’s Squawk on the Street to explain why broadcast television remains subject to public interest requirements that don’t apply to cable networks, podcasts, or streaming platforms. Carr emphasized that the agency doesn’t decide what programming outlets should air. Instead, he said the FCC enforces standards that Congress established specifically for broadcasters using the public airwaves. He also pointed to online platforms as examples of outlets that operate outside those broadcast-specific rules.
What They Said: “Well, we don’t (make programming decisions). We don’t on cable. We don’t on podcasts. But what Congress has said is that if you are on this one unique medium, there are special public interest obligations. And it’s OK if the broadcaster doesn’t like it. In fact, there was a late-night show not that long ago that decided to take a segment that they otherwise would put on broadcast TV and put it on I think either YouTube or another online streaming service. And that’s fine. That doesn’t violate any FCC rule or regulation. But Congress ultimately put these rules in place, and we’ve got to enforce them.” – Brendan Carr
What Remains Unclear: Carr didn’t identify the late-night program he referenced or indicate whether the FCC is considering additional enforcement actions involving broadcasters. Likewise, he didn’t address whether Congress should revisit the decades-old public interest framework.
What It Means: Carr’s comments reinforce the FCC’s position that broadcast television occupies a distinct regulatory category. As streaming, podcasts, and digital video continue to compete for audiences, broadcasters remain subject to obligations that their online competitors don’t face. His remarks also signal that the agency intends to continue enforcing those longstanding requirements unless Congress changes the law.
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Mike Golic Jr. is excited to be returning to ESPN Radio. He’ll do it alongside his father, Mike Golic Sr., starting next month. The reunion is one that Golic Jr. says has invigorated his father to return to a place where he helped build a legacy.
What We Know: ESPN announced that Mike Golic Sr. and Mike Golic Jr. will co-host a new weekday morning show, The Golics. The program debuts Monday, August 3, airing 10 a.m. to noon ET. Golic Sr. spent 25 years at ESPN before departing in 2020, while Golic Jr. previously worked there from 2015 to 2022. Both are returning under a new multi-year agreement, following stops at DraftKings and FanDuel Sports Network. Golic Jr. discussed the upcoming return to ESPN Radio as an opportunity to go back to something familiar.
Mike Golic Jr on how much a return to ESPN Radio was important for his father Mike Golic: “He’s got a legacy there already. He’s left an indelible mark on sports radio, sports media. I knew that impact was going to be big. But I think he was really excited and invigorated about the opportunity and about the chance to go back to something that feels familiar and something that he knows so well with a lot of people that we trust and still care about.”
Mike Golic Jr on how his father didn’t harbor any negative feelings towards ESPN Radio: “The good news with my dad is he’s never [held] grudges, or drama. He doesn’t the hold things back. He’s an old school face to face guy. If he has a problem with someone, he’s going to address it straight up there and now, and not let it linger. There weren’t a lot of bad feelings that had to be parsed through going back here [ESPN]. There wasn’t a lot of that because I think he’s always handled his business the right way. I think he’s always prided himself on doing that. It’s allowed these conversations now going back to be really fun.”
Mike Golic Jr is thankful for another shot to work alongside his father at ESPN Radio: “I got the ESPN as a 26 year old. Understandably the nepotism conversation, and all that stuff. I didn’t know what I didn’t know. I walked in with a good attitude, wanted to work hard and make the most of it. A decade later, professionally I think I have a deeper appreciation for all that. But then, just personally, as a 37-year-old who now has been handed two hours a day I get to spend with my dad. At a time where life gets busy, everyone naturally kind of grows and expands as families. From that standpoint, I think, [it’s] more powerful than I recognize.”
What Remains Unclear: ESPN hasn’t detailed how scheduling conflicts might affect the show long-term. Golic Jr. still serves as TNT Sports’ lead game analyst for Big 12 football. Consequently, questions remain about how he’ll juggle both roles once the season begins. Additionally, ESPN hasn’t confirmed whether either Golic will make regular TV appearances beyond radio.
What It Means: Ultimately, the reunion brings back one of sports media’s most recognizable father-son pairings. For ESPN, it signals renewed investment in weekday radio following recent lineup shifts. For the Golics, meanwhile, it marks a rare professional second act built on family. Therefore, how the show performs early will likely shape ESPN’s approach to future radio partnerships.
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Paramount Skydance’s planned Warner Bros. Discovery takeover faces a legal challenge. A coalition of 12 states argues the $110 billion deal could harm competition.
What We Know: California, New York, Washington, and nine other states filed a lawsuit seeking to block Paramount Skydance’s acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. The attorneys general argue the merger would reduce competition across theatrical film distribution and cable television markets. The coalition claims the combined company would control a significant portion of major film releases. Additionally, the states argue the merger would create a 27% share of the cable market by combining Warner Bros. and Paramount’s operations. The states asked the companies not to complete the transaction before the lawsuit concludes. They also said they plan to seek a temporary restraining order.
What They Said: “The unlawful merger of these two entertainment behemoths would lead to higher prices, lower quality, and less content for film and television, harming movie theaters, basic cable distributors, and ultimately, audiences on every sofa and movie theater seat in the U.S.” -California AG Rob Bonta
What Remains Unclear: It remains uncertain whether the lawsuit will delay the merger’s closing timeline. Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery have not indicated whether the legal challenge will change their plans.
What It Means: The lawsuit adds another obstacle for Paramount Skydance as it attempts to complete one of the largest media transactions in recent years. However, the companies could still move forward if they overcome the antitrust concerns raised by state officials.
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Heidi Raphael is leaving Beasley Media Group for a major new role. The New York State Broadcasters Association has named her its next President and Chief Executive Officer.
What We Know: Raphael succeeds David Donovan, who has led NYSBA for 15 years. Donovan isn’t going far, however. He’ll stay on to direct government relations and advocacy efforts in Albany and Washington. Raphael brings more than 30 years of broadcasting and communications experience. She most recently served as Chief Communications Officer at Beasley Media Group, and before that, spent over two decades rising to SVP of Corporate Communications at Greater Media.
What They Said:Caroline Beasley offered a warm send-off for her departing executive. “I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with Heidi for nearly a decade, and she has become not only a trusted colleague, but also a valued friend,” said Beasley. “While we will miss her tremendously, I couldn’t be happier for her as she begins this exciting new chapter, and I know she will lead the New York State Broadcasters Association with the same passion, integrity, compassion, and unwavering commitment that have made her such a treasured member of the Beasley family.”
What Remains Unclear: An exact start date for Raphael has not been announced. Additionally, it’s unclear who will succeed her as Chief Communications Officer at Beasley Media Group. Meanwhile, the full scope of Donovan’s restructured role still hasn’t been detailed publicly.
What It Means: This is a significant leadership shift for one of the nation’s prominent state broadcast associations. NYSBA represents more than 700 television and radio stations across New York. Raphael’s deep advocacy background and industry relationships position her well. Furthermore, her Western New York roots add a personal dimension to what is already a notable homecoming.
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Cumulus has promoted John Lewis to Regional Vice President for additional markets. The move expands Lewis’ oversight across the company’s Florida and Alabama operations.
What We Know: Cumulus Media announced Lewis will now oversee its stations in Fort Walton Beach and Pensacola. He’ll continue leading Cumulus Huntsville and Cumulus Chattanooga, while supporting the company’s radio and digital brands. Lewis joined Cumulus in 2009 and has spent 17 years with the company. Previously, he served as Vice President/Regional Market Manager for Cumulus Chattanooga and Cumulus Macon, GA. He also held market leadership roles in Albany, Pensacola, Lexington, and Memphis.
What They Said: “John is a proven leader when it comes to building a positive culture with a foundation of measurable results. I am pleased that in his expanded role, he will share his deep experience and knowledge with our terrific teams in Fort Walton Beach and Pensacola.” -Cumulus Media Senior Vice President of Operations Mark Sullivan
“I’m honored and excited to work with the Pensacola and Fort Walton Beach teams. Having spent a couple of years early in my career with Cumulus Pensacola, it’s especially meaningful to return. With outstanding teams, great brands, and a strong track record of success, I look forward to building on that momentum and helping both markets reach their full potential.” -John Lewis
What Remains Unclear: Cumulus hasn’t announced any additional leadership changes connected to Lewis’ expanded responsibilities. The company also hasn’t outlined specific initiatives for the Fort Walton Beach and Pensacola markets.
What It Means: Lewis’ expanded role gives Cumulus another experienced executive overseeing multiple markets. Additionally, the promotion highlights the company’s focus on leaders with experience across broadcast and digital operations.
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ESPN locks up its top NFL insider. Adam Schefter signs a new multi-year deal, extending his run at the network past 20 years.
What We Know: Schefter joined ESPN in 2009 after five seasons at NFL Network. Before that, he covered the Broncos for the Rocky Mountain News and The Denver Post. Additionally, he’s a two-time Colorado Sportswriter of the Year and a former Pro Football Writers of America president. Now, he’ll continue reporting across ESPN.com, ESPN Digital, and shows like NFL Live, SportsCenter, and Sunday NFL Countdown. Front Office Sports was first to report of Schefter’s extension last week.
What They Said: Burke Magnus, President, Content, ESPN: “Adam reaches NFL fans wherever they are — on air, on ESPN Digital and on social — and that multi-platform instinct is a big part of what makes him so valuable to us. ESPN NFL news has a way of cutting through everything else on the sports calendar, and Adam is a big reason our audience comes to ESPN first when it breaks. His credibility with sources, relentless work ethic and ability to deliver news in real time are second to none. Fans know it, the league knows it and we know it. We’re thrilled he’ll continue leading our NFL coverage for years to come.”
Adam Schefter: “It is the highest honor of my career to continue to get to work at ESPN. My profound appreciation to Jimmy Pitaro, Burke Magnus, Mike Foss, Mike McQuade, Mark Gross, Seth Markman, and the many great people at the network who have had such an impact and influence on my career. When I left NFL Network in 2009 for ESPN, my then and now colleague Rich Eisen predicted to me that I never would work anywhere other than ESPN. Rich called it.”
What Remains Unclear: Financial terms and length of the extension weren’t disclosed.
What It Means: Ultimately, ESPN keeps its most trusted NFL voice locked into its biggest broadcasts. Schefter’s reach — 17 million-plus social followers — keeping the network central to breaking news. Earlier this year, Schefter dismissed any speculation about retirement after comparisons to former ESPN NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski’s departure. Instead, the deal suggests the network intends to keep one of its most influential personalities for years to come.
One of sports media's most trusted voices is staying with ESPN, continuing to deliver the NFL's biggest news & stories across every platform for years to come
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What We Know: Tempesta brings deep Las Vegas roots to his new role. He spent a decade at Audacy sister station Mix 94.1 KMXB as APD and afternoon host before leaving in late 2021. He then moved to Beasley Hot AC 102.7 VGS, hosting mornings from June 2022 until the station’s frequency swap last November. Most recently, he co-hosted mornings at Beasley Classic Hits 96.3 KKLZ before exiting in February.
What’s at Stake: KLUC is betting on a familiar face to stabilize a morning show in transition. Chet Buchanan held the morning chair for 25 years before departing in February. Former co-host Mikalah Gordon then carried mornings solo before shifting to middays just last month. Continuity and ratings momentum are both on the line.
What Remains Unclear: No details have surfaced yet about Tempesta’s supporting cast or show format. It’s also unknown whether KLUC plans to expand the show’s footprint across other Audacy properties. Additionally, how quickly the new show builds an audience in a competitive Las Vegas market remains to be seen.
What It Means: Las Vegas is a tough market, and morning radio there demands a personality with real local credibility. Tempesta has that. His ties to KMXB, KVGS, KKLZ, and even television via KTNV-TV’s “The Morning Blend” give him unusual cross-platform name recognition. Audacy is clearly prioritizing market familiarity over outside talent — and in this case, that’s a smart play.
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Michael Cohen is heading to 77 WABC with a new weekend radio show. Rush Limbaugh’s legacy surfaced immediately during Cohen’s first public comments about the opportunity.
What We Know:Michael Cohen debuted as the host of a new program on 77 WABC on Sunday, July 12th. It marks another expansion of the station’s lineup with another nationally recognized personality. The former attorney discussed the opportunity before his first broadcast. Although Cohen built his public profile through legal battles, the move places him in one of the country’s most recognizable talk radio brands. Additionally, his arrival gives 77 WABC another headline-generating voice as the station continues to invest in opinion-driven programming. Cohen made the comments to the New York Post before his first show on 77 WABC.
What They Said: “I was told the president gave me a glowing recommendation for this gig because he believes I’m going to be the next Rush Limbaugh.” -Michael Cohen
What Remains Unclear: It’s not yet known how 77 WABC plans to position Cohen’s program over the long term or whether the show could expand beyond its current schedule. It is unknown if Cohen was joking about the praise from Trump.
What It Means: Cohen’s arrival reinforces 77 WABC’s commitment to personality-driven talk radio. Furthermore, invoking Rush Limbaugh immediately connects the show’s launch to one of the format’s most influential figures. The move also demonstrates that stations continue to value high-profile personalities capable of generating conversation beyond the airwaves.
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