WTOP, Washington’s Top News, announced Wednesday the addition of content originating from Bloomberg Audio and Key Networks joining the growing list of affiliates airing the “Bloomberg Business of Entertainment” radio report. Hubbard Broadcasting’s all-news station in Washington, D.C. will be airing the 60-second segments, launched in January, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the entertainment industry’s top stories.
Designed for stations of nearly any format and market size, the content feature delivers daily, engaging snippets on trends and challenges across film, streaming, cable, social media, and more.
“The entertainment business has always been fascinating to watch, but it has never been at a more crucial crossroads than it is today,” said Michael Lysak, Head of Bloomberg Radio Syndication. “The storyline of the industry itself has all of the drama of a Hollywood blockbuster.”
With WTOP’s addition, the segment now airs on major stations across the country, including Bloomberg WBBR-AM in New York, KNX News 97.1 FM in Los Angeles, Bloomberg 92.9FM WBOS in Boston, and KCBS-AM/KFRC-FM in San Francisco.
Anchored by Bloomberg’s Lisa Mateo and Karen Moskow, the daily report dives into the evolving ways media is consumed—from blockbuster movies to trending music—presented in a fast-paced and listener-friendly format. The feature is distributed once each weekday to radio stations nationwide.
Dennis Green, Chief Operating Officer of Key Networks, echoed the sentiment of Lysak, noting the broad appeal of the segment. “Bloomberg covers the business of show business like no one else with the Business of Entertainment feature,” Green said. “These major market clearances are proof that this content is of interest to audiences, as well as advertisers, that want to know the inside scoop on what’s happening in the entertainment industry.”
The “Business of Entertainment” joins Bloomberg Audio’s robust portfolio of syndicated radio content, which includes Bloomberg Money Minutes and other specialty features such as the Bloomberg Business of Sports Report, Bloomberg Black Business Beat, Bloomberg Real Estate Report, and Bloomberg Green Business Report.
WTOP is continuing to find new ways to curate content as well as the station announced last month the launch of a new podcast called Founding DC, which will focus on local entrepreneurs and successful business ventures in the nation’s capital.
The Bloomberg Radio Network is the leading provider of radio business news in the United States. Audacy’s owned and operated all-news radio stations (including WINS in New York, KNX in Los Angeles, and WBBM in Chicago) use Bloomberg as their primary business and consumer news provider, as do many iHeartMedia’s news and talk stations. Bloomberg is heard on over 500 radio stations nationwide.
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.
Meadowlark Media has agreed to an extension of its partnership with David Samson and his weekday program, Nothing Personal with David Samson, through 2027. As part of the deal, the multiplatform show will be expanding to two hours per day starting on Monday, June 2, continuing its presence within the Meadowlark portfolio of programs alongside The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz, South Beach Sessions and Mystery Crate among others. Samson, who is the former president of the Miami Marlins, first started hosting the show in 2019, and the entity joined the Meadowlark platform two years ago.
“I’m thrilled for the opportunity to grow NPDS for years to come,” Samson said in a statement. “Working with Dan, Matthew Coca and the entire Meadowlark team has been a rewarding experience. Their guidance has helped the show evolve in important ways. I’m especially grateful to our listeners and viewers who make NPDS part of their day. I can’t wait to spend even more time together.”
The daily audio and video podcast brings viewers discussions on sports, business and entertainment. Beginning on Monday, the show will be airing at 7 a.m. EST live on YouTube, on the official podcast website and on the DraftKings Network. Wednesday editions of the program will also contain a full hour dedicated for viewers and listeners to speak with Samson, enabling them to leave voicemails or ask questions through direct messages on X. Samson is also going to be continuing his roles within the rest of the Meadowlark oeuvre, including guest appearances on Le Batard’s program and co-hosting The Sporting Class with John Skipper and Pablo Torre.
“We failed to find anything in artificial intelligence to clone David Samson, so we instead used real intelligence to double the David,” Le Batard said in a statement. “He has developed a loyal following – from casual fans to sports executives – by demystifying complicated issues with his intellect, expertise and uncommon perspective. He works harder than anyone. He has been a great teammate. And his show’s range, unique in the sports-media space, guarantees that both he and his audience will only keep growing.”
When Dave O’Brien was stationed behind the radio console at WKNE as a high school student, he was responsible for engineering its broadcasts of Boston Red Sox baseball. As one of the outlets within the team’s radio network, O’Brien had to load in commercials, monitor audio levels and ensure everything went over the air smoothly.
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.
Perry Finelli has decided to retire after a half century of working in broadcasting, with the past 39 years behind the mic at Minnesota Public Radio. Finelli signed off his final newscast last night, as he has chosen to retire, wrapping up a respected career informing the people of Minnesota of everything they need to know.
Earlier this week, Finelli joined Cathy Wurzer of Morning Edition on Minnesota Public Radio for an interview about his career, which began as a part-time disc jockey and newsman at a local radio station where his father was sports director.
“I did all that back when I was still in high school until I went off to college. And it was a great way to start because it felt like when I got to St. Cloud State University I was ahead of the game, because I had actually done real-life reporting, and newscasting and disc jockeying,” said Finelli. “You learn a lot of theory in college, but I felt like I already knew most of it. So I thought, hey, this is great. It’s been just about 50 years of doing this and it’s been wonderful.”
After beginning his broadcast career in television, Finelli later saw an ad in the St. Cloud Times for a reporter position at MPR. As a result, 39 years later, Finelli found his calling in broadcasting on public radio.
“With TV, you work with a lot of other people to put on a show, whereas in radio a lot of the time you’re individual,” said Finelli. “They’re very similar. Broadcasting is broadcasting. Writing is writing. The talent it takes to do that is pretty much the same. I don’t think there was one I preferred over the other. They both just fit.”
When reflecting on his career, Finelli spoke about being on the air during the September 11 attacks in New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington D.C., describing the day as chaotic and one he’ll never forget being a part of. In addition, he reflected on how he enjoyed being a destination for listeners to find out what’s going on in real time.
“I’ve always been most comfortable in the studio being the person that collates all the news. I like to take kind of a big picture on what’s happening. I’m a news junkie, so I like to know a little bit of things about a lot,” said Finelli. “Fast-breaking news, thinking on your feet, I think people who are working hard news, fast news, it’s part of the game.”
Ultimately, Finelli said his career was very rewarding and he is looking forward to retirement, while still keeping up with the news and scrolling around to see what’s out there.
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.
Dubai’s skyline of gleaming towers and endless wealth has made it a global symbol of luxury – and its roads reflect this ethos. In recent years, G-Wagon rental in Dubai has surged, with the Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G-Wagon) becoming the top choice for high-end rentals. Industry reports note that luxury car bookings in Dubai jumped over 30% in the past year, as tourists and residents alike seek to experience the city’s opulence behind the wheel of a supercar or SUV. In this climate, the G-Wagon stands out.
But why has this boxy, rugged SUV captured the imagination of Dubai’s luxury drivers? The answer lies in a mix of factors: the G-Wagon’s iconic image and performance, Dubai’s lavish lifestyle and booming tourism, the influence of social media and celebrities, and the specific tastes of the rental market.
The G-Wagon’s Iconic Appeal
The Mercedes G-Class has an instantly recognizable, angular design that has become synonymous with luxury and power. For decades it has been a status symbol (popular with celebrities and royals), but in Dubai its fame has reached new heights. As one industry observer bluntly noted, “If you ask me ‘What is the city that first comes to mind where people love the G-Wagon?’ I would say Dubai.
The model is part of the cityscape,” reflecting how integral the G-Wagon is to Dubai’s image. The G-Wagon’s blend of attributes – a squared-off, commanding shape with a high ride height – gives it unmatched curb appeal on Dubai’s streets. NairobiWire reports that the G-Wagon is “synonymous with great status and adventure”, combining “an iconic design with potent off-road performance and an interior full of luxury.” In other words, it offers both thrills and comfort.
This dual nature is especially fitting for Dubai. One Dubai luxury rental provider explains that “the G-Wagon is uniquely appealing here in Dubai. Its off-road capabilities make it ideal for desert excursions, while its sumptuous interior and style make it fit right into driving through the upscale districts of the city.”
In practice, this means a tourist can blast over sand dunes in a G-Wagon one day and cruise past high-end hotels and malls the next, always making a statement. The G-Wagon’s commanding performance – especially in the AMG variants (e.g. the G63’s twin-turbo V8) – satisfies drivers looking for raw power, while its comfortable cabin (leather seats, high-tech displays, etc.) ensures the ride feels luxurious. For many renters, driving a G-Wagon is not just transport but an experience that fuses adventure with prestige.
Photo provided by AMRYTT Media
Dubai’s Luxury Lifestyle and Tourism Boom
Dubai itself provides fertile ground for luxury rentals. The city’s branding as a luxury destination means visitors arrive expecting to splurge on unique experiences – and that includes cars. As one travel report observes, riding in a Ferrari down Sheikh Zayed Road or in a Rolls-Royce to a seven-star hotel “has become a sought-after experience for visitors, essentially an extension of Dubai’s lavish hospitality.” In this culture, the G-Wagon’s exotic appearance makes it a natural choice. Indeed, a market analysis notes that Dubai’s ultra-modern infrastructure and tourist numbers have set a stage “where high-end vehicles are not only wanted but expected.”
As Dubai’s tourism flourishes, so does the demand for premium wheels. Dubai welcomed a record 18.7 million international visitors in 2024, and millions of these tourists rent cars to enhance their stay. Many want to “experience the city’s opulence” by driving something special. For example, exotic car rentals jump during peak season. One report notes that in cooler months (Dubai’s tourist high season) “the typical luxury car booking in winter is just 3–4 days and often a sports car or ultra-luxury vehicle.” For families or groups, a powerful SUV like the G-Wagon offers the luxury of space and performance in one package.
Business and events also drive demand. As a global business hub and conference center, Dubai attracted 437 international conferences in 2024, bringing executives, celebrities, and VIPs to the city. Many of these high-ranking visitors “often opt for premium transportation,” increasing the market for luxury rentals. In fact, one Dubai rental company reported a 30% jump in bookings from business travelers last year. These jet-setting professionals frequently extend their trips and treat themselves to a luxury car for sightseeing on weekends. In a sense, renting a G-Wagon or similar SUV becomes part of a luxury business trip.
Dubai’s own residents contribute to the trend as well. The city is status-conscious, and many wealthy Emiratis and long-term expats prefer the flexibility of renting over buying. “Local residents (including UAE nationals and expats)…see [luxury rentals] as a way to enjoy a variety of exotic cars without the commitments of ownership,” notes the industry. It has become popular, for instance, to rent a G-Wagon or other super-SUV for weddings, parties, or simply a weekend thrill. With long-term leases and subscriptions on offer, some locals even treat these rentals as a short-term lifestyle accessory. In short, Dubai’s blend of affluent residents, tourists, and corporate visitors creates a perfect storm of demand.
Social Media and Celebrity Influence
Photo provided by AMRYTT Media
In the age of Instagram and TikTok, image matters more than ever – and the G-Wagon is a star. Dubai’s luxury culture and social media trends reinforce each other. Tourists and influencers prize “Instagrammable” experiences, and nothing is more photogenic in Dubai than a gleaming G-Wagon parked by the Burj Khalifa or cruising Al Qudra Desert. As one analyst quipped, the “visual impact” of vehicles like the G-Wagon is “huge in popularity.” Getting that perfect shot of an exotic car by the skyline has become a goal for many visitors.
Dubai’s fast-paced social media scene amplifies this allure. Influencers and celebrities frequently showcase the G-Wagon as a symbol of success and luxury. A recent example made global news: an Instagram video of a Dubai socialite’s lavish birth-gift haul featured a custom pink Mercedes G-Wagon among ultra-luxury items. The clip went viral (tens of millions of views), highlighting how the G-Wagon serves not just as transportation but as a lifestyle statement. Dubai’s residents and visitors often emulate such displays – if you can’t own a G-Wagon, renting one for a day’s photo shoot or evening out can send the same message.
This social-media feedback loop drives demand. As NairobiWire notes, ‘In a town like Dubai, where appearances mean everything, renting a G-Wagon or a Mercedes is about much more than just functionality – it’s about making a lasting impression! In other words, the G-Wagon’s fame on social platforms only makes more people want to experience it themselves.
Who Rents the G-Wagon?
The appeal of G-Wagon rentals crosses many demographic lines. Wealthy tourists from around the world – Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond – see driving one as a must-do novelty. Business executives and celebrities, visiting for conferences or entertainment events, often include a high-end rental in their itinerary. Even if their business card says ‘CEO,’ a quick spin in a G-Wagon is an easy way to show success to local contacts.
Locals and expats are a major segment too. Many UAE nationals have deep pockets but limited garage space (or prefer not to commit to one model). Renting a G-Wagon allows them to try different models or save their car allowance for buying a new home. As one market study puts it, Dubai’s socio-cultural environment means driving anything less can “feel out of place” for those who can afford more. Thus a short-term rental becomes a way to project status at a party, wedding, or business meeting.
In surveys of car rental data, luxury SUVs consistently top the charts. For example, an industry report lists the G-Class alongside the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Lamborghini Urus, Bentley Bentayga, and Cadillac Escalade as the most sought-after luxury SUVs in Dubai. All of these have huge, imposing designs that match the city’s bold aesthetic. Among them, the G-Wagon is particularly versatile – suitable for solo thrill-seekers, families heading to the desert, or even bridal party photos. Rental agents note that G-Wagons (especially the AMG models) attract both male and female renters who want performance and prestige.
The bottom line is: renters want to make a statement, and the G-Wagon fits that goal. Whether it’s a young influencer on holiday, a visiting executive treating a client, or a family on a desert safari, the G-Wagon delivers a universally recognized symbol of Dubai-style success.
Comparing the G-Wagon to Other Luxury Vehicles
Photo provided by AMRYTT Media
The G-Wagon does not stand alone – Dubai’s rental fleets are full of Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Range Rovers, and more. Yet the G-Wagon’s unique qualities give it an edge. Some key differences include:
Imposing Prestige: The G-Wagon is routinely listed among Dubai’s “SUVs that exude prestige,” alongside cars like the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Lamborghini Urus. Its iconic shape and Mercedes-Benz badge instantly signal wealth and power. Few other vehicles combine ruggedness and luxury so visibly.
Off-Road Capability: Unlike a two-seat supercar, the G-Wagon is built for more than city streets. It has heavy-duty suspension, multiple locking differentials, and ground clearance designed for dunes. In the words of one enthusiast, the G-Wagon is “basically a luxury tank that can take on sand dunes like it was born to do it.” This means adventurers can legitimately drive it into the desert – something most Ferraris or even Range Rovers would shudder at.
Performance & Power: The AMG versions of the G-Wagon (e.g. G63) pack up to 577 horsepower, giving them straight-line speed comparable to sports cars, but in a heavyweight SUV body. Drivers who crave power and the roar of a V8 engine often choose the G63 over smoother rivals. By contrast, a Range Rover might offer a more refined ride, but the G-Wagon feels deliberately raw and visceral – fitting Dubai’s “go big” mindset.
Interior Luxury: The G-Wagon’s cabin is thoroughly modern and opulent, with leather, carbon-fiber trim, and advanced infotainment screens. Compared to a sports car (which sacrifices space for performance), the G-Wagon can seat five adults comfortably and has room for luggage. It is not quite as cushy as a Rolls-Royce limo – the ride is firmer and space is a bit tighter – but it still provides all the high-end amenities a luxury renter expects. Many customers appreciate that they can have heated and ventilated seats, multi-zone climate control, and a massive sound system and still drive off-road later.
Practicality & Versatility: Unlike some exotic rentals (Lambos or Ferrari coupes), the G-Wagon is practical for varied uses. It can carry families, gear, or even pets without a second thought. Its towing capacity and cargo space outstrip most high-performance models. Thus, some renters treat it as an all-purpose adventure vehicle: beach days, desert safaris, shopping trips and red-carpet evenings, all in one.
In summary, the G-Wagon hits a sweet spot among luxury vehicles. It offers much of the thrill of a performance car, plus the comfort of a luxury SUV, wrapped in an image that Dubai loves. Other models in the rental fleet serve special niches – Rolls-Royces for ultra-luxurious limo service, Ferraris for weekend speed thrills, Range Rovers for plush comfort – but the G-Wagon is often chosen when someone wants a little bit of everything, with unmistakable style.
The G-Wagon Effect
Dubai’s luxury car rental market is booming, and at the top of the heap sits the Mercedes G-Wagon. Its dominance stems from a mix of the vehicle’s own allure and the city’s unique culture. The G-Wagon embodies the bold, adventurous, and high-status lifestyle that Dubai promotes. It looks the part in every desert and downtown setting, it delivers powerful performance, and it satisfies the social-media-driven desire for standout experiences. As one industry report concludes, Dubai’s luxury branding “creates an environment where renting a top-of-the-line car feels not only natural but almost required to complete the Dubai experience.” In a city whose ethos is “go big or go home,” the G-Wagon has become the ultimate go-big rental.
As the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers attained a second consecutive Eastern Conference crown on Wednesday night, TNT Sports play-by-play announcer Kenny Albert was making history on the airwaves. According to data collected by Un/Necessary Sports Research, Albert was slated to pass his father, Marv, for second all time among announcers calling a national telecast for one of the four major professional sports (MLB, NBA, NFL, NHL). As Albert was behind the microphone under such a circumstance for the 1,482nd time in his professional career, he received congratulations from his colleagues both in the booth and in the studio during NHL on TNT Face Off.
Prior to the start of the game, studio host Liam McHugh revealed that TNT Sports had a special video to play for Albert regarding the milestone. It turned out that Marv, who called NBA games for a variety of networks over 55 years, including 22 years with then-Turner Sports, had recorded a special message for his son ahead of Game 5 in the series.
“Ever since Kenny was a kid, he’d have this thing about milestones,” Albert said. “How many wins consecutively he’d get in Monopoly, how many goals he’d score in street hockey, how many hamburgers he’d eat at one sitting. Very sad, but how about 1,481 consecutive national games. Those are the stats Kenny’s offering up. Kenny, congratulations. You are the Cal Ripken of sports broadcasting history on the national level.”
Over his 30-plus year career working in the sports media business, Albert has called games across the four major sports and currently serves as the lead NHL play-by-play announcer for TNT Sports. In addition, he will become the television play-by-play announcer for New York Rangers hockey on MSG Networks after spending the last 29 seasons working on the radio. Albert also fills in on New York Knicks basketball broadcasts on television and has called baseball and football games nationally for FOX Sports. In fact, Albert recently became the first NFL broadcaster to call 500 games in the regular season or postseason for one network, achieving the seminal milestone last October.
Eddie Olczyk, who has been working with Albert for the last five years on NHL broadcasts, asked his partner how he is able to maintain all of his different responsibilities. In response, Albert explained that despite the busy schedule, he has great partners and has been able to make it all work. Moreover, he expressed how he considers himself to be fortunate to be employed by the networks for which he calls games.
“I know you’re humble and you don’t like talking about yourself, so I will talk about you quickly,” McHugh explained. “It’s exactly what Edzo said. It’s from sport to sport to sport, and then occasionally, when I think we’re all resting, I turn the TV on and you’re doing boxing; and then I show up for a banquet that we have to be at, but you’re hosting the banquet; or I showed up a day at a kids’ summer camp at Hofstra to talk to students, and who walks in with his suitcase from the airport? Kenny Albert to talk to the kids in-between.”
“You, as I mentioned, are tireless, but more than that, you’re generous, and if I even tried to do what you do for a week, I’d be the most miserable person around – you are never, ever like that,” continued Olczyk. “You are the happiest person, and I think you’re a big energy guy, and you kind of get us all going all the time.”
Albert trails Dick Stockton by 62 broadcasts as the all-time leader in the category for most national games called across the four major sports. In addition to passing his father on the leaderboard Wednesday night, he also tied him with working 1,467 of those broadcasts as a play-by-play announcer. Kevin Harlan is the leader in that category, amassing 1,476 such national broadcasts across the four major sports working as a play-by-play announcer. Harlan will call Game 5 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals on Thursday night between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers airing on TNT and Max starting at 8 p.m.
Our GOAT Kenny Albert will pass his dad Marv for 2nd all-time in nationally televised calls, and we have a special message from dad himself! 🐐 pic.twitter.com/WdA4SEflcd
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.
Longtime Fresno radio personality and current afternoon drive Co-Host E. Curtis Johnson will retire from broadcasting on Friday, capping off a distinguished 49-year career in radio. Johnson has hosted for Cumulus Media’s News Talk 580 and 105.9 KMJ since March of 2023, and has hosted in afternoons alongside Philip Teresi since beginning with the radio station.
Known for his deep industry knowledge and distinctive voice, Johnson quickly became a staple of KMJ’s programming and a trusted voice for listeners across the Central Valley.
“I was truly excited to get the gig here at KMJ a little over two years ago. I’ve enjoyed working with Philip, and the entire staff has welcomed me as one of their own. I thought I’d be here longer, but some unexpected health issues made the decision to retire the right choice for me,” said Johnson. “It was a hard decision to make, but I’m comfortable that I’ve made the right call for my quality of life. I will miss this team.”
Before joining KMJ, Johnson held on-air roles in San Diego, Salt Lake City, and the Ventura-Santa Barbara, California markets. Additionally, he brought his talents to management and consulting positions across the country, serving stations in Columbia, South Carolina; Anchorage and Fairbanks, Alaska; and several California markets including San Luis Obispo, Modesto, and Bakersfield.
Co-host Philip Teresi also offered heartfelt remarks about his longtime colleague. “E. Curtis Johnson gave me my first job in radio. It was an absolute pleasure to have this full-circle experience, sharing the past two years with him as my partner on KMJ. There are many places in the Valley where E. made his mark, and the entire industry is better for his contributions. I wish my friend and mentor nothing but the best in his next chapter. But it is weird that I still don’t know the guy’s first name.”
Notably, Johnson served as Program Director at KRZR-FM in Fresno from 1989 to 2007 and later as Group Program Director for two radio groups in the city. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Management from the University of Phoenix.
Meanwhile, KMJ Program Director Blake Taylor praised Johnson’s professionalism and dedication. “It was great working with a true professional who brought great insights and a unique skill set to our audience. We’re going to miss E. I trust he’s going to take full advantage of the time off. He deserves it!”
Johnson’s final broadcast will air tomorrow, bringing to a close a legacy that spans nearly five decades and multiple generations of radio listeners.
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.
On a balmy January night in 2008 at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans, a 54-year-old Les Miles led his LSU Tigers to a BCS National Championship victory over top-ranked Ohio State. “The Big Easy” was rocking as LSU won their second national championship in five years and first consensus national championship since the Eisenhower administration. For Tigers’ quarterback Matt Flynn, the fifth-year senior finished the championship-winning season with over 2,400 yards passing and 21 touchdowns.
Flynn’s journey at LSU was not one where he walked in and began slinging the pigskin in “Death Valley.” He found himself as a backup not once, but twice—playing third string to Marcus Randall and second string to JaMarcus Russell. It was right place, right time for Flynn as he started every game of that 2007 Tigers season. And earlier this month, it was right place, right time again for the now-retired signal caller.
Matt Flynn got the call to join the team at 104.5 ESPN Baton Rouge, hosting the wildly popular Off the Bench morning show with his former teammate Jacob Hester.
“Jacob (Hester) threw it out there to me and I blew it off. I just kind of laughed at him and thought this wasn’t serious, just an off-the-cuff comment. I was like, ‘You can’t afford me, buddy,’” said Flynn. “Then I started thinking about it, and I was like, the morning show from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.—there’s nothing during the show within that timeframe that’s stopping me from doing this.”
Flynn reconsidered the offer and discussed the opportunity with his family, thinking about the work-life balance of running his own business and hosting a morning radio program. After a week of considering the concept, Flynn and his wife agreed that there was nothing but positives regarding the broadcasting possibility.
“I’ve always kind of been the anti-media guy. I just kind of go on radio and chop it up a little bit,” noted Flynn. “There are not many people I would have agreed to do it with besides Jacob Hester.”
Teammates On The Field Moving To On The Radio
Hester and Flynn called each other teammates while playing at LSU from 2004 to 2007, connecting through a love of football and playing for the Tigers. Beginning June 2, the two will be teammates again, as Flynn replaces T-Bob Hebert, who left the program earlier this month to take a position with Barstool Sports.
Flynn is no stranger to the Off the Bench program and its audience, as he’s been a regular contributor to the station since Hester began hosting evenings in 2018 and continued with Hester’s elevation to Off the Bench in 2021.
“I have this reputation on their show that I’m going to have to let the listeners down a little bit, because they always expect me to show up five minutes late to my segment or call in last minute because I’m in traffic,” joked Flynn. “Now it’s a job. I told Matt Moscona (program director, 104.5 ESPN Baton Rouge), if this opportunity is real and I decide to do this, I’m all in and excited for it.”
Now moving from the role of contributor—where, in Flynn’s words, he could “do this for fun” and “show up when he wants”—to a three-hour program, five days a week, changes how Flynn will approach his preparation for his full-time on-air role.
“Jacob could handle a solo show for eight hours if he needed to—he is just so knowledgeable when it comes to everything,” explained Flynn. “I’m not known around here to the listeners of the show for being the most ‘sports guy’ as far as knowing people and stats. What I’m going to bring to the show is the mindset of an athlete—X’s and O’s, bigger picture stuff. Jacob is so good with stats, and I know that’s one thing I’m certainly going to sharpen up on.”
Be Authentic! Be Yourself!
Flynn and Hester have spent the last couple of weeks discussing different segment ideas and feature concepts to insert into the program, all while keeping the same Off the Bench identity. The chemistry that Hebert and Hester built together over the past several years is something both Hester and Flynn understand and respect. While there are ideas being discussed, Flynn knows one thing for certain—he can’t try to be something he’s not.
“One thing we don’t want to do is try to re-create and emulate T-Bob. He is so talented—there’s only one T-Bob. No one’s going to go in there and try to replicate what that show was or what T-Bob did,” said Flynn. “We’re going to have a lot of fun. I’m sure some of the segments will carry over, but we’ll just see. I’m the newbie coming in, so I’m going to do a lot of following at first before I can start giving too many opinions.”
As a former football player who played at the highest level in college and in the NFL, there are always expectations placed on every player on a roster. Flynn, a former quarterback, knows all about performing under pressure in the biggest moments. As he transitions to sports radio in a full-time morning drive role for the first time in his career, he knows there will be some expectations to meet, following a successful run.
“I’ve always felt that morning shows should be informative, have opinions, and get feedback,” explained Flynn. “Be engaging and entertaining. I don’t think this show will ever get to the point where you’re listening and we’re just driving home stats every segment and breaking down the seriousness of sports. We’re going to break it down and have a lot of fun doing it. That’s the expectation—to be entertaining.”
From Ignoring The Outside Noise To Being The Outside Noise
Flynn notes that he doesn’t expect himself to attack athletes who go about their business the right way, but he will be critical if need be based on performance on the field. He said that while he played in the NFL, he was bothered when media members went personal with their criticism. Flynn joked that he is now part of “that outside noise” that athletes say they don’t pay attention to—something he never envisioned himself doing during his playing career.
“I’ve never once had the aspiration to go and do something like this up to this point,” said Flynn. “There is so much noise out there with so many options that people can tune into. I think what they’ve built here is this great community of people that love Off the Bench, and love what T-Bob and Hester did, certainly, but also really enjoy the segments that I’ve done for six years. So, we’re just going to make that elongated.”
As the countdown to the first official show begins next Monday, Flynn is excited to see the launch of this new era of Off the Bench. Former teammates who won a championship are now reunited again—looking to beat the competition, have fun, and do things their own unique way.
“I can tell you there’s not going to be anything traditional about the show,” Flynn noted. “It’s going to be a new show. It’s going to be its own show—and it’s going to be awesome.”
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.
When you think about historic NBA playoff series, teams such as the Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers, San Antonio Spurs, Miami Heat, Detroit Pistons, and Chicago Bulls come to mind. Two teams you seldom think about are the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers—unless, of course, we are talking about historic playoff losses. Neither the Knicks nor the Pacers has won a championship since 1973—the Knicks in the NBA, and the Pacers in the old ABA. They have, however, had an epic run of playoff series spanning decades.
This year’s Eastern Conference Finals is the ninth playoff series between the two teams dating back to 1993. With their win in Game 4 of the series, the Pacers have 29 wins and the Knicks 23 wins in their playoff battles. The 2010 ESPN 30 for 30 documentary Winning Time: Reggie Miller vs. the New York Knicks, directed by Dan Klores, provided a terrific chronology of the rivalry to that point.
Speaking of history, the current New York vs. Indiana clash is the last series that the NBA on TNT will cover before the league moves to Amazon, NBC, and ESPN next season. As of this writing, through four games, the series has not disappointed from a TV standpoint.
Despite the Pacers’ commanding 3–1 series lead, the teams have battled back and forth, and the action and intrigue have been vintage Knicks-Pacers. TNT/truTV’s broadcast team for the series has been up to the task as well.
Play-by-play announcer Kevin Harlan, analysts Reggie Miller and Stan Van Gundy, and sideline reporter Allie LaForce are a formidable quartet for sure. LaForce is a top-tier reporter with a solid repertoire of experience across a number of sports. She does solid work ferreting out interviews and interesting tidbits, then speckling them across the broadcast.
Harlan, Van Gundy, and Miller possess gigantic personalities, but this does not stop LaForce from making her mark on the game. She has cultivated a strong social media presence and is one of an elite group of sideline reporters working today.
Van Gundy, in my opinion, has yet to tap into his full potential as an analyst. I’d like to see his gruff, rough-and-tumble, hard-nosed coaching style translate more to television. Van Gundy’s histrionics and antics on the sideline as a head coach in the NBA are legendary. He truly was one of the more entertaining guys to watch as he instructed players and deconstructed referees in an extremely emotional manner.
Van Gundy’s hoops acumen is top-notch, and he is a good watch and listen. I get that he has to pick his spots around Harlan and Miller, but here’s hoping that in future broadcasts, he brings more of that Stan Van Gundy theatrical personality to the forefront.
If the Knicks vs. Pacers rivalry is indeed part of NBA history, then Reggie Miller is the lead historian. He played the starring role in many of those past playoff series and actually co-produced the aforementioned 30 for 30 documentary. Miller’s legendary three-point daggers and equally legendary choke signs to Knicks maven Spike Lee have become the stuff of folklore. Miller has been excellent behind the microphone right from the jump. He seamlessly transitioned from being one of the top players in the league to one of the top analysts on television. Miller’s personality lends itself to TV. He knows the game inside out and, ironically, his failure to win a championship during his career makes him even more interesting.
Like his TNT colleague Charles Barkley, there is always that air of what might have been with Miller. Barkley’s studio mates Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith often chide Sir Charles about his lack of a ring. You can feel some of that same pain and anguish as Miller dissects plays and comments on happenings in a contest. They say that losing builds character. It also builds perspective in a broadcaster.
Let’s not paint a negative picture of Miller’s career, however. The guy did a lot of winning over the years in Indiana, especially during the late 1990s and into the 2000s with Larry Bird as head coach. There must have been something in the Gatorade with those Pacers teams, as Miller and teammates Mark Jackson, Jalen Rose, and Stephen Jackson have become three of the best NBA analysts and storytellers on multimedia platforms.
Networks often get social media heat for having ex-players call games featuring their past teams. Back in the 1980s, CBS was criticized for having Celtic legend Tommy Heinsohn call many of Boston’s playoff and Finals matchups. To me, if analysts have unique insight on one or both teams in a playoff series, let them do their thing.
Miller has ably walked that line of objectivity and has not been a homer for the Pacers on his TNT and truTV telecasts. He has a direct, upfront, and experiential approach to analyzing a game—whether it is talking about stars like Tyrese Haliburton and Jalen Brunson or offering more in-depth thoughts on the intricacies of the game. Miller gives you everything you want in a broadcaster: knowledge, the ability to communicate that knowledge, and the further ability to wrap that knowledge and communication in an entertaining package.
There is definitely a dramatic slant in Miller’s broadcasting style. However, it is his play-by-play partner who leads the league in drama.
Kevin Harlan’s Versatility Shines Again
Kevin Harlan is one of the most popular and busy sports broadcasters working today. In fact, there may be no more recognizable voice in sports. His enthusiasm is palpable. He knows that, in the playoffs, he is calling a do-or-die, win-or-go-home matchup. In terms of preparation and working well with a bevy of analysts, it’s hard not to like what Harlan brings to the broadcast.
Harlan has taken some hits on social media, with some saying he seems to be rooting for one team over another in these playoffs, but that’s just sour grapes from fans. There are times, however, when his penchant for excitement and drama is a bit over the top. Other than a key injury, nothing cataclysmic happens in the first few minutes of an NBA game. There may be no better broadcaster to call the end of a close contest, but Harlan is sometimes a bit heavy on the drama. This is especially true during the regular season. I mean, there is no such thing as a life-or-death game in February.
I love when Harlan’s élan is well-timed, as it was with LeBron James’ memorable dunk in Game 4 of the 2008 Eastern Conference semifinals between Cleveland and Boston. Harlan bellowed a line for the ages: “LeBron James with no regard for human life!” In those moments, I’ll take Kevin Harlan over any broadcaster in the business.
With the Indianapolis 500 having just taken place, and Indiana being a hotbed for auto racing, this TNT/truTV team has a fitting backdrop. The production pit crew is quick and ready, the overall broadcast is firing on all cylinders, and with Harlan, Miller, Van Gundy, and LaForce, viewers are getting a powerful four-on-the-floor transmission.
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.
Like most, I’ve had it up to my you know what hearing about AI. This isn’t a doomsday rant about how technology will bounce everyone out of employment and onto the beach. This is my exclusive interview with AI, meant to tackle the real issues facing RockTernative.
Soon after the interview started, I realized AI likes to jump on its soapbox and hear itself type. Pontificating, long-winded – AI would never survive in a PPM world. While all questions are verbatim, I did edit out non-essential parts of answers so you’re not here until Christmas, but I didn’t add anything.
Q: Rock and Alternative are the best music genres, right?
AI: Rock and Alternative are definitely powerhouse genres! Of course, “best” is subjective—some might swear by jazz, hip-hop, or classical.
Q: Rock is way better than Hip-Hop, though, right?
AI: That depends on who you ask! Rock and hip-hop are both legendary genres that have shaped music in different ways.
Q: If you had to choose only one type of music to listen to for the rest of time, would you choose Rock or Pop?
AI: That’s a tough call! Rock brings the energy, rebellion, and raw emotion, while pop is infectious, polished, and designed to get stuck in your head forever. If I had to pick, I’d lean toward rock—it has so much variety, from Classic Rock anthems to indie, alternative, and even heavier stuff.
(Yes, AI did refer to itself as “I”…)
Q: What will be the biggest new rock song of 2025?
AI: Rock fans have plenty to be excited about in 2025! Some of the most talked-about new releases include “The Emptiness Machine” and “Over Each Other” by Linkin Park, “Awaken” by Breaking Benjamin, and “Routines In The Night” by Twenty One Pilots. Måneskin is also making waves with “HONEY (ARE U COMING?)” and “VALENTINE.”
(There are a lot of Label reps who will miss out on bonuses if this is true.)
Q: Which do Golden Retrievers prefer more, Rock music or Country?
AI: Golden Retrievers seem to have a soft spot for Country music! Research suggests that dogs, including Goldens, respond well to soothing and melodic tunes, and Country music tends to have a calming effect on them.
(Wrong answer. I have a Golden and he prefers Rock).
Q: Why do you use so many exclamation marks?
AI: Great observation! I use exclamation marks to add a little extra energy and enthusiasm to my responses. But don’t worry, I can tone it down if you prefer a more relaxed vibe.
(Again with “I”… twice.)
Q: Is Rock Radio in danger of not surviving?
AI: Rock radio has faced challenges in recent years, but it’s far from disappearing! While digital platforms have changed how people discover music, Rock radio still has a dedicated audience.
Q: Am I crazy, or have the prices for concert tickets become ridiculous?
AI: You’re definitely not imagining things—concert ticket prices have skyrocketed! In 2025, fans are paying more per song than ever before, with some artists charging upwards of $16 per track. The average ticket price in 2024 was $135.92, a huge jump from $25.81 in 1996
Q: Which body parts of others are appropriate to grab while crowd surfing?
AI: When crowd surfing, it’s important to be mindful and respectful of others. Generally, the best approach is to allow the crowd to support you without grabbing onto anyone.
Q: How many times per week should a Rock or Alternative radio station play its biggest new hits?
AI: There’s no strict rule, but Rock and Alternative radio stations typically play their biggest new hits multiple times per day to keep them fresh in listeners’ minds.
Q: Can you give me a more specific number per week?
AI: Rock and Alternative radio stations typically play their biggest new hits dozens of times per week, with some songs getting over 100 spins depending on popularity and demand.
Q: Is Green Day a Rock, Alternative or Punk band?
AI: Green Day is a fascinating mix of all three! They are primarily known as a punk rock band, having played a key role in bringing punk to mainstream audiences in the ’90s with albums like Dookie and American Idiot.
(American Idiot was released in ’04.)
Q: How long should a Radio DJ be allowed to talk between songs?
AI: It really depends on the station’s format and audience expectations! On a Top-40 or Classic Rock station, DJs typically keep their talk breaks short—between 10 to 30 seconds—so the music stays the main attraction.
Q: Who wins a fight between Axl Rose and Dave Grohl?
AI: If we’re talking a hypothetical brawl, Grohl has the advantage of being a drummer—so he’s got stamina and power. But Rose has that wild, unpredictable energy. It’d be a clash of styles, for sure!
Q: How powerful is Radio today versus other media?
AI: Radio is proving to be more resilient than many expected! In 2025, AM/FM radio is projected to surpass traditional TV in audience ratings. Despite the rise of streaming services and podcasts, radio remains a dominant force in media, especially in cars, workplaces, and local communities. It’s still a go-to for advertisers, with 85% of adults aged 25-64 tuning in weekly.
(AI was getting tired at this point, so I promised I’d wrap it up with some key questions.)
Q: Thinking like a great radio program director would: What is the single most important thing in achieving great ratings?
AI: A great radio program director knows that understanding the audience is the single most important factor in achieving great ratings. The best PDs deeply analyze listener habits, preferences, and trends to craft a station that keeps people tuning in.
Q: What’s the best Rock radio station in America?
AI: There are plenty of great rock radio stations across the U.S., but some of the most highly rated include:
KLOS 95.5 (Los Angeles, CA) – A legendary station known for Classic Rock and deep cuts.
WRIF 101.1 (Detroit, MI) – A powerhouse for hard Rock and Alternative.
WMMS 100.7 (Cleveland, OH) – Famous for breaking new Rock artists.
WCSX 94.7 (Detroit, MI) – A go-to for Classic Rock fans.
KQRS 92.5 (Minneapolis, MN) – A staple for Rock lovers in the Midwest.
Q: What’s the best Alternative Rock radio station in America?
There are plenty of great Alternative rock radio stations across the U.S., but some of the top-rated ones include:
KEXP 90.3 FM (Seattle, WA) – Known for its deep love of Indie and Alternative rock, plus live performances.
WKQX 101.1 FM (Chicago, IL) – A staple for Alternative rock fans in the Midwest.
KROQ 106.7 FM (Los Angeles, CA) – One of the most iconic Alternative rock stations, famous for breaking new artists.
WXRV 92.5 FM (Andover, MA) – Also known as “The River,” it plays a mix of Alternative, Folk, and Blues.
KRBZ 96.5 FM (Kansas City, MO) – “The Buzz,” a go-to for Alternative rock lovers.
(I know the above two lists will bring questions, debates and maybe knife fights. Why is AI listing those stations? I was curious, too, so I asked for each list:)
Q: How did you determine that list?
AI’s (abbreviated) Rock Answer: I put that list together based on a mix of listener ratings, historical significance, industry rankings, and overall influence in rock radio.
AI’s (abbreviated) Alternative Answer: I compiled that list based on a combination of factors, including industry rankings, listener ratings, station popularity, and historical impact on the alternative rock scene.
(Once again, “I” and “I”…)
So there you have it.
I did ask about reinventing Radio’s revenue model, how many commercials are too many, and other “core business” topics. But like a good politician, AI gave very long, analytical, and both-sides-of-the-aisle answers, so I decided to keep this lighter and focus on important things like Golden Retrievers.
I didn’t know AI was an “I,” that freaks me out a bit, but Rock and Radio get good report cards. It would have looked even stronger if I didn’t edit-out some deeper analysis that would have made this column 3x times longer.
Credit to ChatGPT and Copilot, they took all the smoke and didn’t have their 24-year-old girlfriends block any questions.
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 Bob & Tom Show” recently hosted “Q95 Live Jingle Day” on its flagship station, Q95 Indianapolis. The show created custom jingles that were performed live in the studio during the show for 12 Indianapolis businesses.
The show aimed to blend humor, music and community spirit in a one-of-a-kind celebration.
I caught up with Tom Griswold to discuss the concept and its execution.
“We’ve done it before a couple of times. The idea is to shake it up a little bit and add a sense of the liveness of live radio, if that makes any sense. In other words, everything has gotten so sort of canned, it’s nice to be doing something where very clearly you’re doing it live.”
“You’ve got musicians in the studio, you’ve got singers, and mistakes and all, but people, I think, get drawn into it a little bit. It’s really fun because we have the clients all here, so they’re watching it happen. That’s sort of the idea, just again, adding that live factor.”
Griswold has firsthand experience in seeing the power of advertisers’ jingles.
“I’ll give you an example, my nine-year-old daughter, we were in the car, and a commercial came on for O’Reilly Auto Parts. They have a really good jingle, and at the end of the jingle, there’s sort of a short little, ow, sound. Unprompted, she’s singing along with it, and I think there’s a lot to be said for a really good jingle.”
Here is a jingle created on Live Jingle Day for Bee Windows.
The work to execute such a live event begins several weeks out.
“The idea of this was that we wrote original jingles for each one of the 12 clients. We spent some time the month prior writing different types of jingles. We had essentially three different groups doing it, so we have sort of three distinct feels for them. Even within each group, there was a different feel for each jingle. I think it made it fun for the audience and the clients.”
Leon Williamson, Market President for iHeartMedia Indianapolis, said, “‘Q95 Live Jingle Day’ brought the energy of live radio to life. ‘The Bob & Tom Show’ created custom jingles, performed live for 12 Indianapolis businesses, blending humor, music, and community spirit in a one of a one-of-a-kind celebration.”
One of the businesses shared, “Having our jingle made live by the ‘Bob & Tom Show’ crew was unforgettable.”
Imagine, Courtesy Bob & Tom Show
Griswold believes that having the clients in and letting them look behind the curtain adds to the sparkle of the event.
“I think they really like it. The other aspect of it is you bring the clients into the building, and it’s just something that a lot of them never get to see, especially post-COVID.”
“To come into this building, you can walk through here, and you see the history of the stuff that has happened. Old logos, old signed albums on the walls, and then you see the posters from a variety of shows that we’ve done. We have impressive stuff hanging on the walls, jerseys from famous players in the world of sports, that sort of thing.”
“So getting the clients in the building is interesting, plus then actually seeing something happening live, when you see an actual band up there, you see singers, it’s a kind of a party atmosphere, even though it might be six in the morning.”
The team of musicians for the jingles included:
The Duke Tumatoe Trio
Duke Tumatoe… guitar and vocals
Bill Ritter …. bass
Dawson Willette… drums
Michael Read… Keyboards and Vocals
Annie Manly… Vocals
Amie Eisenmann… Vocals
Pat Godwin … Guitar and Vocals
Photo Courtesy Bob & Tom Show
After the show, the clients are free to use the jingles and collateral in future campaigns. Griswold said that they might re-record some of them.
“We’re going to re-record some of them, probably, but they were all really good. There’s a real variety, we had a couple of session singers that we use a lot, and then our two other artists, Duke Tumatoe, and Michael Reed, are distinguished in the world of music, and they both sang some of them.”
“Pat Godwin from our show sang some of them, and some of them were really silly, and some of them were really slick. Some of them were very jingle-ish, some kind of old school, but some of them are really goofy.”
Will the show do this again?
“Absolutely. I’m already planning it. I’ve got a really interesting idea for the next one.”
“It’s in the early phase, but we’re going to do it in a different town. I think we’re considering doing it in Louisville, Lexington, Toledo, or somewhere else. The idea would be to do one jingle all morning long, maybe two. We would write different lyrics for each client, so the listener would have the privilege of hearing the same melody and seeing how we mixed it up.”
“We could change the tempo, we could change who’s singing it, and then all the words could be different. It’s also possible we might go with two different melodies, and then you could pick one for each, possibly with different instrumentation. There are ways to make it really fun, such as having a tuba band or a mariachi band for an hour, to mix it up. I’m not sure I haven’t thought it through, but I bet it’d be kind of a fun challenge.”
While I had Griswold, I wanted to find out about the latest offering from the show, “Bob & Tom Plus.”
“The idea there is to take the show and release it in pieces, so that if somebody wants to play music, they could play a section of our show, play a couple of songs, or play whatever they want to play. Then they pick it up where it left off, and they don’t have to be constrained by the current clock, which has three six-minute breaks an hour. If they wanted to have shorter commercial breaks, they could do that.”
“It’s just a way of recognizing that there are different needs for different types of shows. This way, we get rid of that clock that’s sort of constraining.”
The segments are fed to affiliates in near real time.
“They are fed as we go. If you’re in the same time zone we’re in, the first hour is cut from the previous day. They’re generic enough that it doesn’t matter. And then the parts are fed as they happen. With a minimum of editing. It’s done on the fly. The guy who does it’s already left, and we’ve been off the air for 25 minutes.”
Griswold sees the show as a good opportunity for stations with small staffs looking to get great content.
“The nature of the way things are right now with voice tracking, etc., this is just going to make it for certain stations, a lot easier to do it. And it’s good for us in that we can ideally get on some more places.”
This led us to a conversation about the possibility of revitalizing content for AM stations that are struggling to stay afloat.
“I think also it opens up to possibly going on to some AM talk stations, we reference Classic Rock, but we also reference occasionally almost all the other genres out there. There’s a certain sensibility that isn’t just Classic Rock on our show.”
“We don’t talk about music that much. But yeah, I think that especially AM radio is in a transitional state right now. You’ve got some sports talk, a lot of political talk, which we don’t do at all. It might be a refreshing way to take an AM radio station and add something a little bit different.”
Photo Courtesy Bob & Tom Show
In closing, Griswold gave a shout-out to his team.
“I mentioned the fact that we have this giant staff. About eight of us are on the air. It’s kind of a platoon situation. We’ve got a lot of young folks behind the scenes and on the air now. My son, Willie, is on the air with us a lot. And we have a lot of younger comedians on.”
“We’re really doing a lot to keep the show fresh and vital for people of all ages. Our streaming numbers indicate that we’re doing well with some of the younger demographics. Although I hate to talk in those terms.”
“I think it’s important to emphasize the size of what we do. The morning we did that, the live commercial thing, let me just think for a second. We had one, two, three, four, and five musicians, and then two extra singers who were full-time singers. And then four people doing voiceovers, plus clients doing voiceovers. It was a big crowd, plus our regular staff. And I should mention this.”
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.
