The WNBA has reportedly reached a television viewership deal with Nielsen Media Research, granting the league access to metrics measuring consumption across traditional and streaming television platforms. As the league prepares to enter into new 11-year media rights contracts with The Walt Disney Company, Comcast Corporation and Amazon reportedly worth $200 million per year, the entity has now reached the largest commercial measurement deal for a women’s sports league ever recorded for Nielsen.
According to Sara Fischer of Axios, the deal was agreed upon last quarter and will provide the league with Nielsen ratings through a paid partnership rather than relying on NBA or media partner data.
Nielsen currently has a measurement deal with the LPGA as well, but this contract will enable Nielsen to measure WNBA ratings as a client alongside the NBA. In addition, it allows for the direct distribution of such ratings and alleviates the risk of external blackouts, such as what transpired with Paramount Global last year. The media conglomerate reached a multiyear agreement with Nielsen after a four-month contract dispute that included the licensure of new Nielsen services, including Big Data + Panel, Advanced Audiences and Ad-Supported Streaming Platform Ratings.
Nielsen has several deals with professional sports leagues, some of which consist of the National Football League, Major League Baseball and the National Hockey League. TKO Group Holdings properties WWE and UFC also have contracts with Nielsen, the former of which is in the first year of new media rights deals for its Raw and Smackdown properties. Fischer reports that while Nielsen typically sells its data tools to television networks in deals that cost “hundreds of millions,” its agreements with leagues are usually worth “upwards of tens of millions” instead.
The reported deal between Nielsen and the WNBA comes as the league will be negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement with the WNBPA ahead of next season. Last season, the league attained 22 regular-season games that averaged more than 1 million viewers per contest, marking the first time since 2008 a league matchup passed that average threshold. The popularity of the league has been proliferating in recent years with superstars such as Caitlin Clark, Breanna Stewart and A’ja Wilson competing for championships. On top of that, the league has introduced new teams coming to Portland and Toronto next season with one more available spot open for 2028.
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The WNBA revealed on Tuesday night their findings of an investigation into claims of racist remarks directed at the Chicago Sky in their matchup last week against the Indiana Fever. According to a statement by the league, they did not find any evidence of racist behavior by any fans after reviewing audio and video from the contest, as well as speaking with attendees in the crowd after the matter. Meanwhile, ESPN WNBA analyst Chiney Ogwumike took to social media last night following the release of the findings and apologized for how her comments emerged after the initial reports of the behavior surfaced.
“If you know me, you know I’m not afraid to say I can do better. I am sorry that my message was in the heat of the moment, because when I initially spoke on the topic, it really came from a place of care,” said Ogwumike. “It was based on firsthand conversations with people very close to the situation who raised real concerns. And they told me what they had experienced. And I felt like it was important and it was necessary to acknowledge those allegations and also voice those experiences.”
Notably, Ogwumike’s comments following the reports of potential racist remarks directed at Reese and Chicago Sky players drew some criticism for jumping to conclusions during an appearance on the May 19 episode of Get Up!. The league said that while they found no evidence, they remain committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for everybody and will continue to be vigilant in enforcing their fan code of conduct.
“When it comes to the racism and the hateful rhetoric and the statement that the WNBA is saying, I think it’s important,” said Ogwumike on May 19. “At the end of the day, if you’re truly a basketball fan, you would understand and agree that we have no space for those types of comments.”
In light of the investigation’s findings, the ESPN analyst acknowledged that her earlier remarks may have affected some fans in a way she didn’t intend.
“I totally recognize that it may have impacted fans in a way that I did not intend. I am sorry,” explained Ogwumike. “I am also happy that the WNBA treated the matter with the utmost seriousness, followed through with the investigation. And I understand that having a platform comes with a responsibility, and I do not take that lightly. So as our league continues to grow, I am going to grow with it. And I am so committed to be better about how I share perspectives and grow alongside the game that I truly love and adore.”
I’m never afraid to say that I can do better…🖤 (my thoughts on the wnba investigation) pic.twitter.com/PaGmcwvTPE
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Crowd React Media has released its latest State of Media 2025 study, and there’s another interesting nugget that was released Tuesday as media consumption rises in line with the number of different ways people are consuming. In surveying adults over the age of 18 through online surveys and focus group conversations, the major takeaway is that there is no downtime for the audience.
According to the findings, those surveyed show that the consumer is “always on,” as stated by Glenda Bos, Partner and founder of Harker Bos Group and Crowd React Media. With a ready, active, and engaged audience, advertisers have a wonderful opportunity to reach a consumer that is never offline.
Moreover, in every media platform in which the survey was conducted, the results garnered more than 50% cume on each platform. These findings ranged from 90% who use social media to the 51% who said they listen to podcasts. Another key takeaway is that the consumer seeks out content no matter how it’s delivered. Specifically, 76% cume represented listening to radio, while 64% cume represented satellite or cable television.
In both cases, the results clearly show that advertisers will receive an automatic brand lift by simply being associated with trusted influencers on either platform.
Furthermore, earlier this month, the State of Media 2025 study showed that radio remains a top form of media in 2025, with 76% of adults saying they listen to AM/FM radio at least occasionally.
However, those who said they used radio frequently — at least 3–5 times per week — were significantly fewer. Specifically, 43% of those aged 35–45 identified themselves as frequent listeners. That figure dropped to 40% for those aged 55+ and an even lower 36% among the 18–34 demographic. Additionally, men tended to self-identify as frequent radio listeners more than women — 42% versus 38%.
Lastly, the Crowd React Media study surveyed just under 1,100 U.S. adults about their media habits, preferences, frustrations, and routines. Those surveyed represent all regions of the United States, as well as a broad mix of genders and age groups.
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When the dust settles after a car accident in Boston and the initial shock subsides, victims often find themselves navigating a maze of insurance paperwork, medical appointments, and mounting bills. Many assume that filing an insurance claim is their only recourse and that the settlement offered will adequately cover their losses.
However, consulting with a skilled Boston car accident attorney provides invaluable perspective on whether your situation warrants litigation beyond the standard insurance claim process. These legal professionals evaluate the full scope of your damages. They’ll identify when insurance limitations could leave you with substantial uncovered expenses.
The decision to pursue litigation after a car accident isn’t one to take lightly, but understanding when and why a lawsuit might be necessary can protect your financial future and ensure you receive fair compensation for all your losses. This guide explores the limitations of insurance settlements, circumstances that warrant legal action, and how the litigation process works in Massachusetts.
The Limitations of Insurance Settlements in Massachusetts
Massachusetts operates under a modified no-fault insurance system that shapes how car accident claims are handled and often restricts the compensation victims can receive. Under Massachusetts law, all drivers must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, which provides coverage regardless of who caused the accident. When you’re injured in a car crash, you first file a claim with your own insurance company rather than the at-fault driver’s insurer.
While this system ensures quick payment for immediate needs, the $8,000 maximum benefit is woefully inadequate for serious injuries that may require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, or result in long-term disability.
The Reality of Minimum Insurance Requirements
Massachusetts law requires drivers to carry only:
$20,00 for each individual and $40,000 for each incident involving injuries to third parties
$8,000 for PIP
Damages from an uninsured motorist might reach $20,000 per person and $40,000 per accident.
Damages to $5,000 worth of property.
These minimums, though legally sufficient, rarely cover the full extent of damages in serious accidents. Consider that the average hospital stay costs over $2,000 per day, a single surgery can exceed $50,000, and a totaled vehicle might be worth $30,000 or more. The financial gap becomes immediately apparent.
When a Lawsuit Becomes Necessary: Breaking Through the Threshold
Massachusetts law establishes specific criteria that must be met before you can step outside the no-fault system and pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
The Massachusetts Tort Threshold
You may file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver only if your case meets one of these criteria:
Your reasonable medical expenses exceed $2,000, or you’ve suffered:
Permanent and serious disfigurement
Fractured bones
Substantial loss of hearing or vision
Partial or complete loss of a body part.
This threshold exists to keep minor injury cases within the insurance system while allowing more seriously injured victims to seek full compensation through litigation.
Scenarios That Typically Warrant Litigation
While each case is unique, certain situations commonly necessitate filing a lawsuit:
Catastrophic Injuries
Injuries that dramatically alter your life often result in damages far exceeding insurance limits:
Traumatic brain injuries
Spinal cord damage and paralysis
Severe burns
Multiple fractures or crush injuries
Amputations.
Disputed Liability
When the insurance company denies responsibility or claims you were primarily at fault, litigation may be the only way to prove liability and secure compensation. This is particularly important in Massachusetts, which follows a modified comparative negligence rule that bars recovery if you’re found to be more than 50% responsible for the accident.
Permanent Impairment
Injuries resulting in lasting disabilities that affect your ability to work, perform daily activities, or enjoy life require compensation beyond immediate medical costs. These long-term implications are often undervalued in insurance settlements but can be properly addressed through litigation.
Bad Faith Insurance Practices
When insurance companies unreasonably delay, deny valid claims, or engage in deceptive practices, a lawsuit may be necessary not only to secure compensation but also to hold the insurer accountable for their handling of your claim.
How Attorneys Evaluate Case Strength
Experienced car accident attorneys use several methods to assess whether your case is suitable for litigation and estimate its potential value.
Liability Analysis
Attorneys thoroughly investigate the accident to establish fault by:
Analyzing police reports and witness statements
Consulting accident reconstruction experts
Obtaining traffic camera footage or dashcam video
Examining vehicle damage patterns
Researching the driving history of all parties involved.
Damages Assessment
Attorneys work with medical experts, economists, and life care planners to comprehensively evaluate and document all damages:
Review of all medical records and bills
Consultation with treating physicians about prognosis and future needs
Economic analysis of lost earning capacity
Calculation of life care costs for permanent injuries
Examination of similar cases and their outcomes.
Risk-Benefit Analysis
Experienced attorneys compare the settlement offers from insurance companies against the potential litigation outcome, considering:
The strength of evidence
Jury tendencies in the venue where the case would be tried
The defendant’s resources and insurance coverage
The client’s ability to withstand a lengthy legal process
When Warner Bros. Discovery reached a settlement with the National Basketball Association over a lawsuit pertaining to media rights, it marked a moment in the history of the sports division. For the first time since 1984, a property currently in its oversight would not hold NBA U.S. broadcasting rights, a reality that is going to commence next season. Despite efforts to reach a deal, the league opted to sign 11-year contracts with The Walt Disney Company, Comcast Corporation and Amazon reportedly worth a collective $77 billion.
Rather than taking a wholly reactionary approach though, Warner Bros. Discovery was proactive several months ahead of time and started to reimagine its TNT Sports portfolio to provide value for stakeholders.
Among the properties under consideration for TNT Sports was Roland-Garros, one of the four tennis majors. NBC and Tennis Channel had previously aired the tournament in the United States, but the entities did not reach new deals with the French Tennis Federation upon the expirations of their contracts. TNT Sports recognized an opportunity to broaden its offerings and ended up reaching a deal under which it is paying a reported $65 million per year, enabling it to present multiplatform coverage through the championship rounds. Craig Barry, the executive vice president and chief content officer of TNT Sports, understands the appeal of the annual tournament and how it fits within the network dossier.
“We’re in the premium sports business. We have a premium sport that we can crown a championship on, and then it’s a great activation as well,” Barry said. “It’s only one of four slams, it’s a limited opportunity. We’re an entertainment network that has sports, and so our template is to make sure that we have the most premium of those sports.”
TNT Sports is currently at a distinctive place in the sports calendar where it is presenting several marquee properties simultaneously. In addition to coverage of Roland-Garros from Paris, the company is airing the NBA Eastern Conference Finals between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers, the final series under its existing media rights deal. Moreover, TNT Sports is on the cusp of presenting the NHL Stanley Cup Finals for the second time in company history and also televising Tuesday night MLB regular-season games. The strategy of acquiring premium sports rights with championship implications has assisted the company in garnering strong viewership despite its lack of a broadcast television offering, partially facilitated through effective synergies and promotion.
“When you have all these properties in the same family, the first thing that’s most important is [to] make sure everybody understands that these properties are happening,” Barry said. “If you’re an NHL fan, make sure they know that the NBA is happening or the MLB is happening or Roland-Garros is happening, and if you’re an NBA fan, the same, or NHL [and] MLB, and use those platforms to creatively make sure that you’re creating awareness.”
Identifying What Serves the Audience Best
Although TNT Sports does not have a network allocated for 24-hour sports coverage, Barry explained that it likes to present year-round programming. Whenever Barry and the team at TNT Sports are thinking about acquiring a new property, they ask themselves whether it is premium, if it fits the programming strategy and if it serves multiple platforms in the ecosystem. An example of such is the return of NASCAR to its platforms beginning in June under a seven-year contract.
“Five races are on TNT, but then we have 36 races on Max for the in-car product and then we have another 14 practice and qualifiers on truTV, so it really optimizes all of our platforms,” Barry said. “Roland-Garros, the same thing. We have a whiparound show on truTV, we have obviously kind of the primary network matches on TNT, and then every match is available to you on Max.”
TNT Sports is executing an approach that will leverage its portfolio of networks such as TNT, TBS and truTV to feature live matches and other coverage. The division will also be creating content for Bleacher Report and House of Highlights, digital properties that appeal to younger demographics. Operating under the premise of trying to reach everyone, Barry hopes that the company can gain traction and discern intersections within the viewing audience.
“We’re here to serve the fan – that’s who we answer to – and so if the fan is interested in ultimately watching it in a traditional way on TNT, then there’s that opportunity,” Barry said. “If they’re more interested in taking a trip around Roland-Garros for a few hours as we bounce from court to court, then that’s the opportunity; or if they want to just move around themselves and watch various matches in their entirety on Max, they’re welcome to do that too.”
The whiparound show, which is titled The Rally, is airing throughout the first three rounds of coverage and features a rotating cast that includes Mark Petchey and Patrick McEnroe. This product will move across courts at Stade Roland Garros showcasing salient action around the sports complex. There could also be instances where McEnroe will work alongside his brother, John, presenting differentiable perspectives from the siblings and former tennis champions. The talent roster overall features skilled commentators, active players and former stars.
“We want everybody to be able to do everything,” Barry said. “If there’s a group of people that we feel are uniquely qualified to be in the booth, then that’s where they’re going to be and/or if that’s where they want to be, then we have that flexibility.”
Bringing a New Approach and Presentation to the French Open
Among the commentators is Alex Faust, a multisport play-by-play announcer who will be calling Roland-Garros for the second time in his career. Faust previously called the 2020 iteration of the tournament remotely for Tennis Channel and has been on the broadcast for seven Grand Slam tournaments throughout his career. Being overseas and feeling the energy of the crowd, he is looking forward to providing commentary.
“It’s similar to a baseball broadcast, especially baseball broadcasts prior to the pitch clock where storytelling was such a key element for the play-by-play voice,” Faust said. “In tennis [with] the play-by-play role, you’re laying out most of the time, and our job is to caption the moment as much as it is to deliver commentary in a big sequence.”
Faust believes that the product will stand out in part because of the top-tier analysis, yet he understands the criticism surrounding tennis not being a sport conducive to television viewership and knows that TNT Sports will be trying new things pertaining to access.
For example, Faust stated that there is a plan in place to try and get live microphones with those in the coaching box, along with implementing different camera angles that bring viewers closer to the action. In fact, he believes that while the high angle places the game in perspective, there is value in having access to other views proprietary to TNT away from the world feed.
“The speed of the professional game and the physicality on clay – and sometimes we don’t really capture that well on television because we’re trying to put the entire field in perspective,” Faust said. “Imagine watching a football game from the All-22 camera. It might show you everything that’s going on, but it removes you a little bit from feeling the game.”
Throughout its 36-year tenure, Inside the NBA has become inextricably tied to TNT broadcasts of the NBA, granting viewers an adept mix of information, entertainment and engagement. Ernie Johnson has led the show since 1990 and currently works alongside analysts Kenny “The Jet” Smith, Charles Barkley and Shaquille O’Neal.
Albeit for a shorter time, TNT Sports also has studio offerings surrounding hockey and baseball broadcasts featuring athletes such as Wayne Gretzky, Henrik Lundqvist and Pedro Martínez. Faust observes that tennis studio shows have oftentimes been utilized as an interview platform, but he is also looking forward to witnessing shrewd analysis and humor.
“We have group texts going between myself, Brian Anderson and Adam Lefkoe where we’re sharing memes from around the tennis world or we’re sharing news and hot gossip, and I think we’re really going to try to lean into all of those things, much like we’ve done at TNT with our MLB show, with our NHL show, with the NBA on TNT,” Faust said.
Rather than relying on remote integration models of production that emphasize doing more with less, TNT Sports will be presenting genuine on-site coverage throughout the tournament. The network will have dedicated sets for TNT, truTV and Bleacher Report, along with other content outside of the matches, such as feature stories with Venus Williams, and multiple player interviews. Barry regards TNT Sports taking this all-in approach as a first step to bringing new energy to Roland-Garros, and it is approaching the venture as a singular company with Eurosport and TNT UK possessing overseas broadcast rights as well.
“We’re coming in with a brand-new fresh lens and there’s a lot of benefit to that. That should create an opportunity for us, and not to mention we’ll have the global rights for the most part, and that should create something pretty special as well,” said Barry.
Continue to Expand Post-NBA on TNT
In addition to Roland-Garros, TNT Sports has bolstered its portfolio with the additions of properties such as Big East Conference college basketball, Unrivaled Basketball and the FIFA Club World Cup soccer tournament. Concerning the latter, Barry views it as being a “strategically additive” opportunity that the company was not thinking about as a long-term plan. When the company analyzed the enterprise against its existing portfolio of sports rights, which also includes March Madness, All Elite Wrestling and sublicensing deals for select Big 12 Conference contests and College Football Playoff matchups, it proved to be a strong fit.
“Luis [Silberwasser], our chairman, is really smart and thoughtful about what properties will best enhance and amplify our current properties, and again, it’s also important to us,” Barry said. “We like being on kind of year-round even though we’re not a sports channel. We like to be able to pepper our fanbase in every quarter purposefully.”
When Roland-Garros crowns new champions next weekend, it will mark the conclusion of the first year of a decade-long pact granting rights to the tournament. Barry hopes to reflect on the presentation and feel that TNT Sports has helped move the game forward at a time where he views tennis as being at somewhat of a crossroads. Being able to amplify the stars of Roland-Garros and the unique environment associated with the tournament would represent a triumph for Barry and his colleagues at TNT Sports, along with providing a product that fosters community awareness and does justice to the sport.
“If they notice that, ‘Yeah, it’s different than it’s been, and this Grand Slam feels different in a good way,’ and I think that’s, on the surface, what success looks like,” Barry said. “And then the opportunity to say, ‘Okay, hey. What can we do better? How can we create more efficiency?,’ and you’re looking to get better year-over-year. But I think in Year 1, you really want people to come away and say… ‘Wow, that was a really well-done Slam. That felt big and special.’”
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This past weekend marked the official start of summer. Memorial Day is a unique national holiday where our country remembers those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our nation while indulging in the joys of life with friends, food, and celebration. Most sports radio brands across the country take the day to lean on syndication so their local talent can join the party and get away.
While the summer wind comes blowing in from across the sea—as Frank Sinatra so eloquently put it—sports radio’s summer vacation is also near. The sunshine and high temps mean no more car lines, shorter commutes, and more vacation getaways. The attention economy of the consumer turns to focus on escaping the day-to-day, making it more difficult for sports radio brands to maintain listener awareness.
The NBA and NHL seasons are about to conclude, and the NFL is already enjoying the countdown to training camp in August. How does sports radio avoid being immersed in the summer swoon of 2025?
Depending on your market, your approach to the summer sports calendar may vary. If your market hosts one of the thirty Major League Baseball franchises, the summer stress is lessened, as the ‘boys of summer’ provide local sports radio with game-to-game storylines all the way to football season.
In nearly all cases, baseball discussion doesn’t play well on a national scale. In some baseball markets, even day-to-day talk is an instant tune-out. How many times can a sports radio listener continue to care about issues with a bullpen arm, or why a guy batting sixth should be batting eighth?
Who knew the national pastime was past its prime in the collective consciousness of sports?
Don’t Be Predictable! Don’t Be Lazy!
Instead, sports radio brands have found that navigating conversations toward the NFL is a proven path to success. These can range from creative lists to micro-analyzing draft picks, to over-analyzing a team’s schedule with predictions well ahead of training camp.
Understanding that the NFL is king among the four major sports, does hammering anything even remotely related to the NFL for months before training camp actually help retain listeners?
Too often, sports radio brands feel the need to “stick to sports” during the summer, when most sports fans are tuned out until the fall.
Different times on the calendar dictate how sports radio should approach content. In football season, most people listen for the evolving narratives from week to week. The NFL is professional sports’ single-greatest soap opera, where every word matters just as much as every interception or touchdown. The interest in football gives warmth to sports radio brands during the winter and leads to a bountiful spring.
Sports fans look forward to spring as the greatest time on the sports calendar—March Madness, The Masters, MLB Opening Day, the NFL Draft, and the start of both the NHL and NBA postseasons—all lumped into one giant sports buffet. When Memorial Day arrives, so does the last call for dessert before closing.
It’s nearly impossible for sports radio stations to retain the same audience engagement in summer that they enjoyed in spring—and will again in fall. Shrinking attention spans, no school, lighter workloads, and more travel form the perfect combination for dwindling audiences and weaker connection.
Be Engaging! Be Entertaining!
Summer is when sports radio needs to revisit what it learned during COVID: that the value was not just in sports, but in entertainment.
Sports radio should take the same approach in the summer months. Instead of force-feeding your audience generic content to fill the void until the NFL season—which is easily forgettable—this is the time to branch out and connect with your listeners in more unique ways.
The focus should be on keeping the audience guessing by delivering the unexpected.
There are all sorts of summer playlists listeners are looking for—why not provide your own or invite listeners to share theirs? Why not hold a Saturday night event where a final playlist is revealed to a live audience—for free?
Everyone loves a cookout. Ever consider hosting one at the radio station parking lot or during a popular local event? It doesn’t have to be a sports event—it’s a great way to connect with the community and create digital content for your brand.
Expand your guest lineup and collaborate with your sister stations to cross-promote events and talent. Welcome the morning show host from your Top 40 station to talk about the American Music Awards—and return the favor for the NBA Draft or ESPY Awards.
How about a “Podcasters Week,” where your local radio brand invites local podcasters to co-host your most popular shows—exposing their audience to you and vice versa?
Does your morning show give away tickets to the biggest concert in town? Why not have the show escort the winners for a unique, unforgettable experience?
When was the last time a sports station challenged its listeners to a debate-style event or live broadcast? Take a page from what Charlie Kirk does—inviting people to “prove him wrong”—and apply it to pop-up sports debates in high-traffic community areas.
Breaking Outside The Comfort Zone Redefining Your Norm
Sports radio has a great opportunity to get creative. Getting out where the people are and trying new, bold concepts can only strengthen the bond with existing listeners—and introduce your product to new ones face-to-face.
The goal for sports radio during the summer should be create attention through disruption. Reinforce connection through collaboration. Brainstorm creation through innovation.
The most invaluable currency a sports radio station can own is the attachment it has within the community it calls home.
Sports radio often treats the summer book as the least important ratings period of the four. But in truth, summer should be the most important time to break out of the comfort zone and become part of the consumer’s escape—wherever they may be.
Every step forward is a leap toward a bigger goal. Success—even during the summer swoon—awaits those who dare to try.
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Joe Biden’s Stage 4 prostate cancer diagnosis set off an incredible TV firestorm. First the condolences poured in, and within what seemed like minutes, the doubters took issue with the suspicious timing, asking why we should believe anything out of his mouth, especially when he and his tiny inner circle have lied for years about his mental acuity.
Others are trying to use it as a shield. CNNs David Axelrod, a top advisor to Barack Obama and one of the few Democrats to warn during the campaign that the ex-president would be close to 90 at the end of his term, now insists that chatter by pundits and Democrats should be more muted and “set aside” in light of Biden’s sad cancer diagnosis.
In other words, he played the sympathy card. And that’s outrageous.
The fact that Axelrod, a onetime Chicago reporter who has played at the upper echelon of politics for decades, thinks perhaps the greatest coverup in American politics should be swept under the rug because Biden was diagnosed with cancer, is exactly what landed Democrats in this mess in the first place. It reminds me of those three cartoon monkeys with their hands covering their eyes, mouth and ears.
The fact that Biden’s life-threatening cancer has spread to his bones is hard to fathom. And my heart goes out to him and his family. Cancer is a beast.
Name calling and condemnation have no place in this discussion. Taylor Lorenz, a left-wing former reporter for the New York Times and Washington Post, wrote on X about Biden: “I hope he rots in hell and stands in piss.” That’s abhorrent.
How can we not put his “age,” a term being used interchangeably with mental decline, front and center when we hear Jon Favreau, a former Obama speechwriter, admit he was part of the coverup?
On his “Pod Save America” podcast, Favreau confessed that while he didn’t know exactly what was going on behind the scenes, if Joe Biden was the candidate, “I want him to f***g win.”
And we certainly can’t bury our heads when a new, much-touted book reveals countless concealments and contretemps as his wife and small group of advisors secretly debated whether he’d need a wheelchair in a second term.
Over the years I’ve seen Biden in the Senate and as vice president. He’s a likable guy, but he was a different person then. This doesn’t give him a pass, especially when he and his doctors have stubbornly refused to answer questions.
“Original Sin,” the book by CNN anchor Jake Tapper and Axios reporter and CNN contributor Alex Thompson, features 200 interviews from mostly Democrats claiming Cabinet members were shielded from Biden and saying he constantly fumbled important dates. The book points out he couldn’t recognize longtime allies, including actor George Clooney, who raised $28 million for him.
All of this unfolded while his staff was publicly praising his exceptional abilities and slamming conservative media outlets for expressing horror at his decline. Now the Dems, like Axelrod, want to pull the plug just as a treasure trove of new information is revealed?
In June 2024, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said, “Right-wing critics of the president have a credibility problem.” She mocked reporters for daring to question her about her 80-year-old boss, claiming she had trouble keeping up with him. Now she’s gone radio silent.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas told NBC News at the time that Biden “is sharp, intensely probing and detail oriented and focused.” And Ron Klain, his longtime confidant and chief of staff, said that “the president absolutely is sharp, fit and on top of his game.”
Klain later recanted to author Chris Whipple, who quoted him as saying, when he returned to run debate prep for Biden, that “he’d never seen him so exhausted and out of it” and “wondered half-seriously if Biden thought he was president of NATO instead of the U.S.” That disastrous debate against Trump drove Biden from the race.
Most in the legacy media wanted to keep Donald Trump out of the White House. With a few exceptions, many turned the other way when Biden’s health was concerned.
It’s truly scandalous that high-ranking Biden officials denied what the conservative media were reporting all along. Yes, they had a motive to attack and call out deception, but it doesn’t mean they were wrong.
Even Tapper admitted this, while selling his book, to Megyn Kelly on Sirius XM, saying that “conservative media was right.” To which they now cry too late and too little. It’s hard to disagree.
And Thompson, who is known for his aggressive reporting, admitted on FOX News Sunday, “I do think we didn’t probe more, probe enough, into what was actually going on behind the scenes.”
As for the exasperation at what is called one of the greatest journalistic screwups in history, Thompson responded, “For people in the country who were frustrated with the coverup, “I don’t blame them.”
Why did mainstream media fall down on the job of covering Biden’s failing mental state? Did they do it purposely? Willingly? Or, did they simply believe it wasn’t true? Seems like it was more sinister than not.
All the mea culpas in the world won’t bring back what little credibility we have as chroniclers of the executive branch. As if our reputation wasn’t damaged enough. Think of what lapses in coverage came the closest to this monumental blunder. It was most of the media buying the Bush administration’s argument that Saddam Hussein had weapons of mass destruction, until our 2003 invasion of Iraq proved that to be a fraud.
Jake Tapper now argues that the media need to do soul searching. The media, for the most part, never do soul searching and can’t stand criticism. But the apologies are a start. Even if journalists got there taking the scenic route.
Last week, something happened that had me reflecting on a few situations and interactions I experienced as an Urban programmer. First, I must say I have no intention of discussing politics in my weekly communication with you. God knows I’m vocal enough on other platforms. But as my father used to say, “Everything is political,” and boy, was he right.
One of the great things from my experiences was having direct communication with programmers across multiple formats. In one market, I even shared an office with the Country PD. We talked about family, finances, life in general, and—most often—programming. And what did I learn? Other than the music and the lifestyle, there’s not much difference. The old adage, “Sell the music and it will sell you,” applies to Rock, Country, Jazz, Gospel, and Urban.
Appointment listening—does that belong solely to Classic Rock, or can it work on a Jazz format? And the overly used “Play the Hits”—which format owns that image exclusively? None. It’s universal.
Now, there are some very clear differences, especially when it comes to Urban formats. I recall a situation in a market where I had to push back from a market manager who suggested ways to boost our station’s website traffic.
As I’ve mentioned in a previous article, my teams worked hard to stay ahead of management and sales mandates by constantly coming up with ideas and creating opportunities for sales. Yet one of our sister stations was consistently outperforming us in digital engagement.
At the time, stations were trying to drive web traffic, not social media. At that time, we hadn’t fully grasped the impact of Facebook and Instagram, much less how to monetize them. The big win for that sister station? A wet T-shirt contest photo gallery.
In a meeting, the market manager suggested we do something similar. “Push back” is a polite way to describe my response, because in my head, it was a strong “FOH!” When asked why I was so adamant, I recall my answer clearly: My ‘WHY.’ Because I have a sister, a mother, and female friends who would find that offensive.” While I remember exactly what I said, my tone and volume are a little fuzzy. I was clear in my head, but not sure how I said it. I just remember the room going silent. But I know we didn’t do a wet T-shirt gallery.
Another incident that came to mind involved a regional VP who commented on the music we were playing and suggested we play an older base of titles. Apparently, he had experience—at some point in his career—with a station that played The Temptations, The Supremes, and The Four Tops. No disrespect to those artists, but this was well into the 2000s, and our station was far from an oldies format.
I remember my response to him vividly. My delivery was calm and direct: “If you like the music I’m playing on this station, I’m probably playing the wrong music.” Some might think that was harsh. It wasn’t. One, he wasn’t in programming. Two, the last time he was in programming, the aforementioned artists were in active gold rotation. And three, he was out of his lane, and this was not the first time.
Unfortunately, I have more stories like these, as I’m sure other programmers do. But the number of incidents isn’t the point. The question is: What is Urban, and what is not?
Years ago, I worked at a major market station that hired a consultant who wasn’t African American. The staff was less than pleased. When someone asked what he knew about Black radio, my response was clear—as if it happened yesterday: “I know Black radio. I want to know what he knows about radio.”
In Urban radio, opinions on music selection, category architecture and imaging vary. But the basics of execution have been set by ratings methodology. Urban PDs know the culture because they live it. And that’s exactly why you hire one.
Radio is radio.
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The industry has long depended on accurate audience measurement to attract advertisers, guide programming decisions, and evaluate station performance. Nielsen’s PPM system revolutionized radio ratings by providing real-time data on listener behavior.
However, a recent change in methodology, with the implementation of the new listening rule, has sparked industry-wide debate. The change, intended to improve accuracy in measuring radio consumption in today’s fragmented landscape, has produced mixed results. There are arguments both for its success and its failures.
The new rule changes the minimum time a listener must be exposed to audio from five minutes to three minutes. This shift reflects a broader recognition that modern radio listening habits are more fragmented, especially among younger, digital-savvy audiences. Let’s look at some pros and cons of the new system.
Pros:
1. More Accurate Engagement Measurement: The primary advantage of the new rule is that it tries to reflect more meaningful listening. Since a single minute of exposure may not really mean genuine engagement or loyalty to a station. By requiring three minutes, Nielsen increases the likelihood that only attentive listeners are counted, offering a clearer picture of audience commitment.
2. Higher Value for Advertisers: Advertisers stand to benefit from data that reflects longer engagement, a listener who stays for three minutes is more likely to hear full advertisements or program segments, thus increasing the likelihood of message retention. This could raise the value of ad inventory on stations with loyal audiences.
3. Driving Better Content Strategy: Stations may be motivated to improve programming to keep listeners longer. This change places a premium on engaging, sticky content. It encourages stations to focus on compelling, engaging content segments, song rotations and promotions that minimize tune-out.
Now, the Cons of the Rule:
1. Potential Loss of Reach Metrics: Even though with this column we are mainly focused on Hot AC radio stations, the industry as a whole will see many stations, especially not music formats that will likely see a drop in credited listening, where those formats rely on frequent, short-duration listening, such as traffic, news, or sports updates. Those formats may deliver high value in brief periods, but under the new rule, those listeners may go uncounted.
2. Disadvantage to Certain Formats and Dayparts: Formats like Top 40, or even some talk stations that see frequent dial switching or drive-by listening, may be disproportionately penalized. Similarly, dayparts like morning or afternoon drive, where users may flip between stations, might suffer in ratings due to shorter time spent listening.
3. Misrepresenting True Audience Size: Though aiming to be accurate, the rule may underrepresent the actual number of people exposed to a station. Even short listening moments can have an impact, especially in high-cume formats. Advertisers may be misled about the total reach and market penetration of certain stations.
So, what is the verdict?
Whether the change improves the long-term value of radio measurement or inadvertently diminishes the visibility of key segments remains to be seen. The new PPM listening rule just may be a double-edged sword.
It succeeds in modernizing audience measurement to reflect current listening behaviors, but it also introduces questions about data integrity, real engagement, and fairness.
I would really like to hear from Hot AC Programmers and Market Managers about what they have seen so far in their markets and what their assessment is so far. Whether it is ultimately considered successful or a failure may depend less on the rule itself and more on how the industry adapts, interprets, and balances these new metrics against longstanding goals of listener connection and advertiser value.
That is a whole other topic to explore in a future column.
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There is a simple truth about all of my career decisions and choices over the years. There is no way I would have been able to navigate those seas on my own. I’m not referring to the actual jobs but more about the decisions and paths I have taken throughout the decades.
Aside from family, I am a firm advocate of a personal board of directors. It’s challenging to try to navigate the complexities of life and career by oneself. But just as corporations rely on boards of directors and advisors for guidance and strategic corporate thinking, we, as individuals, can greatly benefit from our own personal board.
Of course, it will be minus the formal meetings in that mahogany-paneled room. This is more about cultivating a personal network of trusted people. People you have come to know who offer diverse perspectives, support, and/or constructive criticism designed to help you achieve your own goals.
Many have already built this group of valued and trusted friends, but perhaps you have yet to realize their true value. Think of your personal board as a dedicated think tank. As you go through the list of people in your head, you’ll begin to realize what each member brings to the table.
They each offer a unique set of experiences, skills, and insights. Their differences will be crucial as they help you see situations from multiple angles, identify potential problems, and make more balanced, well-thought-out decisions.
As Chairman of the Board, what will usually happen next is that you will quickly determine who will be your “lead director.” That will be the one trusted person. The one who not only helps you with their own opinion and advice but also helps parse through all other opinions.
I am willing to bet that by this time, you have a few people in mind and have picked the most valued member. As you go through each person, you’ll begin to see that a true mentor who has excelled in your desired field can offer invaluable career advice, while another friend with strong financial acumen can provide guidance on investment strategies, whether within the same field or not.
That other former colleague or friend with an outstanding creative spark will assist with innovative ideas. While the one with seasoned life experience can help you navigate personal challenges.
The key to creating this personal board of directors is access to objective feedback on various levels. This is what will prevent you from getting stuck on your own perspective and biases. They can offer you what is hopefully an unbiased assessment of your plans and approaches to challenges.
It’s this honest feedback that’ll be essential for growth and course correction, despite how difficult it may be to hear. My board of directors has consistently helped identify my own weaknesses while encouraging me to leverage my own strengths more effectively.
Your personal board also provides a crucial and critical support system. I have never met a person who has shared “the human experience” without being thrown the occasional curveball.
If you have chosen the correct network of advisors who believe in you, they will offer encouragement. Emotional support during tough times, celebrate your successes, and help keep you motivated when the course seems nearly impossible. Your team will also help boost your confidence.
Aside from simple advice, your personal board will help expand your network and open doors to new opportunities. Remember, it’s not just about their analysis. It’s a true network in which each member has their own connections and spheres of influence.
Sharing your own goals and ambitions will very likely open up their networks, potentially leading to introductions or unexpected opportunities you would otherwise never have discovered.
It’s important to understand that constructing this personal board doesn’t happen overnight. You just can’t put all your friends together and expect to garner the best from all. This requires cultivation that starts by identifying those whose opinions you value. Whose experiences are in line with your goals. And who possesses skills or knowledge that are in sync with your own.
If you have yet to consider this, keep in mind that they could come from virtually any area of your life. Including mentors, former employers, colleagues, trusted friends, and family members.
Something many neglect is taking the time to reach out and explain why they value each person and what they’re actually looking for. Be honest and accurate regarding the type of support you’re looking for, whether it’s career advice, personal insights, or simply bouncing new ideas off them.
It’s important to nurture these relationships. Stay in touch, share your progress, and be open to their feedback, but don’t always make it all about you. These are reciprocal relationships. Offer your support and insights in return whenever possible. Each of you thrives on mutual respect, trust, and a genuine desire to see each other succeed.
It’s clear that navigating life and career is a journey that has only become more challenging due to the amount of change we go through. I’ve come to learn that as social creatures, things go better with trusted counsel.
Your board of directors will provide invaluable perspective, honest feedback, crucial support, and expanded networks. By intentionally building and nurturing these relationships, you will certainly become more empowered to make the most informed decisions, overcome challenges with greater resilience, and ultimately achieve your full potential. Like everything else in life – don’t go it alone.
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.
