Scott Jennings pushed back on speculation surrounding Mitch McConnell’s health. His statement directly contradicted viral claims circulating online.
What We Know:Scott Jennings disputed reports about Mitch McConnell’s condition with a post on X after online speculation intensified. Earlier, Laura Loomer claimed McConnell was brain-dead and being kept alive by a ventilator. However, Jennings’ account directly challenged that narrative by describing a lengthy conversation with the longtime Kentucky senator while he continues recovering in the hospital. Although McConnell remains hospitalized, Jennings indicated the senator was alert enough to discuss multiple domestic and international issues during their call.
What They Said: “I spoke to my old friend Mitch McConnell this morning, the senior Senator from Kentucky. He’s still recovering in the hospital. We talked for just shy of 20 minutes … about Iran, Ukraine, the unfolding situation in Maine, my visit to the TR Presidential Library, and even a little bit of Senate history. I told him we want to see him back at work as soon as possible.” – Scott Jennings
What Remains Unclear: Hospital officials haven’t publicly released additional details about McConnell’s condition beyond confirming his hospitalization. As a result, the full scope of his recovery timeline remains unknown. Likewise, it’s unclear when the senator will return to Washington or resume his regular Senate responsibilities.
What It Means: Jennings’ post serves as a direct rebuttal to unverified claims that spread rapidly across social media. His firsthand account offers a conflicting version of McConnell’s condition and may help slow misinformation surrounding the senator’s health. Even so, questions will likely persist until McConnell, his family, or his medical team provides further public updates. For political reporters and news organizations, the episode also highlights the importance of relying on verified sources when covering high-profile health stories.
I spoke to my old friend Mitch McConnell this morning, the senior Senator from Kentucky. He’s still recovering in the hospital. We talked for just shy of 20 minutes … about IRAN, UKRAINE, the unfolding situation in MAINE, my visit to the TR Presidential Library, and even a…
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A Seattle radio institution just got a new name. Nathan Hale High School’s C89.5 KNHC officially relaunched this morning as Dance 89.5.
What We Know: The station rebranded with a new positioner — “Seattle’s Party Radio.” Leadership says the tagline more clearly reflects the station’s role as the soundtrack to Seattle’s dance music community. The C89.5 brand first debuted in 1983, with the station’s focus on dance music beginning around the same time. The station has served the Seattle community since 1971.
What They Said: General Manager June Fox addressed the change directly. “While our name is changing, our mission remains the same,” she said. “Dance 89.5 reflects who we’ve always been: a station dedicated to dance music, community, and creating memorable experiences for our listeners and students,” Fox added that the rebrand reflects the station’s excitement about bringing people together through music.
What Remains Unclear: The timeline for executing the station’s broader ambitions hasn’t been publicly outlined. Leadership has signaled long-term goals to become a global leader in electronic dance music. How quickly the station plans to scale its live events, artist partnerships, and digital content remains to be seen.
What It Means: Dance 89.5 is planting a bigger flag in the EDM space. The rebrand signals a shift from local institution to global contender. However, the station’s roots still matter here — community connection remains central to its identity. That balance between local mission and global vision will define what comes next.
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Triple Tigers Records has promoted Raffaella Braun to Co-President. She will serve alongside Annie Ortmeier and report directly to Founder and Managing Partner George Couri.
What We Know: Braun previously served as Vice President of Radio Promotion and will continue leading those efforts across the full Triple Tigers roster. She brings more than 15 years of industry experience to her expanded role. Her track record includes securing 13 of the label’s last 16 No. 1 radio hits. Artists benefiting from her work include Scotty McCreery, Russell Dickerson, and Ella Langley. Before radio promotion, she worked as a booking agent at CAA and as an event producer.
What They Said: Couri praised Braun’s range and resilience. “She is relentless, focused, and able to navigate difficult situations without ever losing her wonderful attitude,” he said. “I’ve seen her lead teams, solve problems and think far beyond radio promotion.” Braun acknowledged outgoing Co-President Kevin Herring’s impact. “Kevin Herring’s contributions are the foundation of Triple Tigers,” she said. “He has well prepared us for the road ahead.”
What Remains Unclear: The timeline for Herring’s full departure has not been announced. Braun noted he remains with the label “for a good while.” It is also unclear how specific responsibilities will be divided between Braun and Ortmeier. No structural changes beyond the Co-President appointments have been disclosed.
What It Means: Triple Tigers is betting on a leadership duo with deep complementary experience. Braun and Ortmeier now form what Couri called a “two-headed juggernaut.” The move signals continuity in the label’s radio strategy while positioning it for broader growth. With 16 No. 1 hits and a rising roster, Triple Tigers is building on a strong foundation.
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Last week in New York City, Barrett Media put on a showcase unlike any other in media circles. More than 500 media professionals gathered over three days at the SVA Theatre to collaborate, discuss, and help move the broadcast media industry forward. The attendees and speakers represented talent, management, programmers, technology, advertising, measurement, syndication, and much more.
This year was also a first. It marked the first time Barrett Media combined the news, sports, and music focus of the brand into three consecutive days of programming. Also, it served as the debut of the Music Summit, where some of the industry’s brightest minds celebrated, challenged, and educated those in attendance.
It was also a first for many attendees. Over the three days, I had the pleasure of getting to know numerous first-time attendees and speakers, from old colleagues and fresh faces to those who had recently fallen victim to a round of layoffs. It was rewarding to experience the Summit through the fresh perspective of those attending for the first time.
In the days that followed, I reached out to three individuals in different markets. Each with a different perspective and also different stages of their career. The goal was to learn how they viewed the Barrett Media Audio Summit. What they took away from the experience. Plus, whether it convinced them to return next year.
Jonathan “T-Bone” Smith
Listeners to 97.1 The Fan in Columbus know Jonathan Smith as “T-Bone.” For nearly 13 years, Smith has been a guiding voice on the radio home of The Ohio State Buckeyes. First in afternoon drive and now in morning drive alongside co-host Tyvis Powell. Smith had considered attending the Barrett Media Summit several times in the past. However, this year’s guest lineup ultimately convinced him to make the trip.
“Seeing the lineup of panelists coupled with New York City as the host city put this year’s summit over the top for me,” says Smith. “I thought it was a nice touch to have the sports media sessions on the same day as the anniversary of WFAN signing on as the nation’s first all-sports station.”
Smith is a radio lifer. He grew up listening to the voices that kept Columbus company during the early morning commute. Understanding that networking is a vital part of the industry, Smith praised the tremendous opportunities the Summit provided. He had the chance to connect with some of the biggest names in the business, executives, and decision-makers alike.
Among the panels Smith attended, one that stood out featured SiriusXM Mad Dog Sports Radio host Damon Amendolara moderating a discussion about digital content and AI.
“It really helped me think about what a world without a radio tower would look like. Content is still king, and algorithm vs audience is a concept that continues to challenge my thinking,” said Smith. “Daniel Anstandig from Futuri gave a detailed presentation on AI that I truly found fascinating. There is a lot to process around how AI continues to shape our business.”
Smith noted he brought home many ideas from the Summit. Among them was a renewed perspective on what truly qualifies as a “hit” topic in sports talk radio.
“I thoroughly enjoyed the discussion about what our audiences view as the most important thing to talk about on a daily basis. That discussion gave me a bunch of fresh ideas,” says Smith.
As for next year, Smith says he plans to return after what he described as a truly great event in New York City.
Shukri Wrights is a host and producer at Beasley Media Group’s 97.5 The Fanatic in Philadelphia. His sports radio journey has included many stops on the way to the City of Brotherly Love. But one destination he had always wanted to experience was the Barrett Media Audio Summit.
“As someone who is relatively new in the sports radio industry, I looked at this opportunity as a chance to learn from the best of the best in this business. Whether it be program directors, on air talent for both tv and radio, and radio executives,” said Wright. “You have to be hungry, curious, and driven to want to learn from those whom you have admired from afar for many years whom have been very successful.”
When I met Wrights following Day 2 of the Summit, I asked about everything he had taken away from the event. Needless to say, he returned to Philadelphia with plenty of new ideas.
“I ended up realizing that you as an individual are a brand. The most attractive brands are the ones who bring in value, and attract different opportunities in this industry,” said Wrights. “Never be afraid to swallow your pride and ego to speak with decision makers. Ask questions to better understand what they look for and how it can help you grow as talent and employee.”
One moment that stood out to Wrights came when WFAN’s Craig Carton joined fellow WFAN personalities Boomer Esiason and Gregg Giannotti on stage.
“Carton stood out to me because of a moment created at the summit in which he gave Anthony Gallo his flowers as someone who is an emerging talent at WFAN,” said Wrights. “To witness Carton say that great things take time to happen at WFAN really impacted me in my understanding. Great things take time and come with being intentional about the hard work you choose to consistently put in everyday.”
For Wrights, the Summit was a “life changing experience,” one he plans to repeat in 2027.
Cole Thompson
For Cole Thompson, timing was the biggest factor. After just over seven months co-hosting morning drive on iHeartMedia’s SportsTalk 790 in Houston, Thompson was part of the company’s most recent reduction in force.
“I was a part of the iHeart layoffs last week. I wanted to get my name out there to program directors, station managers and others who work in the business,” said Thompson. “More than anything, I love learning more how the industry is changing. I want to stay ahead of the times.”
A University of Alabama graduate, Thompson hosted Just Sayin It on SportsMap Radio for three years before joining iHeartMedia and currently hosts shows for SEC Unfiltered. While he continues to work outside traditional sports radio, the perspective he gained at the Barrett Media Audio Summit provided valuable insight into what matters most should he return to the format.
“Hearing from people from Westwood One, FOX Sports Radio, SiriusXM, ESPN and others is huge. It gives you an idea of what’s working for major platforms in a day and age where media is constantly evolving past the dial,” said Thompson.
AI was a major topic on nearly every Summit panel. From advertising to talent, nearly everyone offered an opinion on how the technology is helping or hurting the industry. That broad range of perspectives stood out to Thompson.
“Hearing about how using AI tools as resources I thought was massive. Mostly because when trying to build up a brand, it’s a way to make the product look crisper and more detailed,” said Thompson. “I’m someone who has been opposed to AI for years because I see the value for the human element. Seeing major stations not rely on AI, but treat it as a way for more growth toward socials and enhancing the show I thought was a wakeup call toward the changing times.”
Moreover, Thompson echoed the sentiments of many attendees regarding the networking opportunities at the Summit. The chance to put faces to names, exchange contact information, and share stories was worth the price of admission. He also valued the opportunity to discuss industry challenges with peers facing similar experiences.
“As someone who also makes college football content online, hearing from [Josh] Pate is a must. Not just for me, but for everyone looking to make it in that path,” said Thompson. “Josh Pate has been kind enough to give me time to pick his brain in the past and provide insight of what works and what doesn’t.”
As for attending again next year, Thompson says he’s very open to returning.
“If possible, yes. Timing was big because two weeks ago, I’m not sure I would have made it. From everyone I met with, how much I learned, and what I picked up on from every panel. I would love to attend every year,” said Thompson.
Three attendees. Three different markets. Three different stages of their careers. Yet despite their unique paths, each walked away from New York with the same conclusion: the Barrett Media Audio Summit delivered far more than a series of panel discussions. It provided perspective, practical ideas, meaningful relationships, and a clearer understanding of where the audio industry is headed.
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American General Media has flipped its Bakersfield translator to a new Rhythmic Throwback format. The new station, 101.1 The Bounce, launched on K266CG/KISV-HD2, positioning itself as “Your Throwback Party Station.”
What We Know: The flip ends a brief run for Sports radio on the signal. The Sports format had migrated from 1230 AM to KISV-HD2 just this past April, feeding the translator. It posted a modest 0.2 share in the May 2026 Nielsen Audio ratings. Clearly, the format failed to gain traction in the market.
What’s at Stake: The Bounce now enters a crowded lane in Bakersfield. Shemogul Media’s Precious 95.7 (KVPM) already serves a similarly formatted Rhythmic Throwback audience. Additionally, Frequency Broadcasting’s Groove 99.3 (KKBB) operates as a Rhythmic AC, occupying nearby sonic territory. American General Media must carve out a distinct identity to survive the competition.
What Remains Unclear: It’s unknown whether The Bounce will pursue its own local programming or rely on syndicated content. Also unclear is how American General Media plans to market the station against its established competitors. No staffing announcements have been made at this time.
What It Means: This move signals that American General Media sees more opportunity in Rhythmic Throwback than in Sports radio locally. The format shift is a calculated bet on a genre with proven listener nostalgia. However, breaking through in a market with two well-established competitors won’t be easy. Execution and local relevance will ultimately determine The Bounce’s fate.
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iHeartMedia and TOGETHXR are expanding their partnership with a new weekly women’s sports podcast. The companies will launch Everyone Watches Women’s Sport on July 9th across audio and video platforms.
What We Know: The weekly show will debut through iHeart Women’s Sports and feature multimedia journalist Ari Chambers, Olympic gold medalist Jordan Chiles, and Emmy-nominated comedian Sam Jay as recurring hosts. New episodes will arrive every Thursday. iHeartMedia has pledged that half of all newly produced sports podcasts will focus on women’s sports coverage, aligning with TOGETHXR’s mission to elevate athletes and storytelling. The rotating lineup combines athletes, journalists, entertainers, and celebrity guests. Organizers say surprise appearances will also become a regular part of the show’s format.
What They Said: “‘Everyone Watches Women’s Sports™’ isn’t just a show; it’s a statement that started as a slogan and became a movement. This is TOGETHXR at its fullest: the athletes, the voices, the conversations that define this era of women’s sports. We couldn’t have a better partner than iHeart Women’s Sports to bring it to the world.” – TOGETHXR Chief Content Officer Kati Fernandez
“Both iHeart Women’s Sports and TOGETHXR are setting the standard for high-quality coverage and storytelling in women’s sports — delivering the insight, access and cultural relevance that fans expect and deserve. This partnership allows us to combine the strength of two of the most influential players in the space to amplify the voices that drive women’s sports coverage even further.” – Head of iHeart Women’s Sports Jessie Katz
What’s At Stake: Women’s sports continue attracting larger audiences, creating increased demand for dedicated coverage across podcasting, streaming, and digital media. This launch positions both companies to capture more of that growing audience while expanding premium programming.
What It Means: The new series gives iHeartMedia another marquee title in its expanding women’s sports portfolio. Meanwhile, TOGETHXR extends its brand beyond social media and original video, creating another destination for fans seeking consistent, personality-driven coverage.
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Jamie “JT” Tanchyk is making a format jump in Portland. After a year in middays at Country KUPL 98.7 The Bull, he’s moving to afternoons at CHR KBFF Live 95.5.
What We Know: Tanchyk steps into the afternoon slot previously held by former Content Director Dylan Salisbury, who recently departed the station. He retains his Music Director role at KUPL and KGNC-FM Amarillo. Additionally, his voice will carry to afternoons on 96.3 KLLL Lubbock and late nights on Pamal’s WKLI-FM “100.9 The Cat” in Albany.
What’s At Stake: Tanchyk brings significant multi-format experience to the role. Before KUPL, he served as Brand Manager of Hot AC “Bella 105” KRSK and afternoon host at Country KWJJ Portland, until exiting in the Audacy layoffs of March 2025. His background spans Rhythmic Hot AC, CHR, Country, and AAA — a versatile resume that strengthens Live 95.5’s afternoon position.
What Remains Unclear: No announcement has addressed whether a permanent Content Director replacement is in the pipeline at KBFF. It also remains to be seen how Tanchyk manages his expanding multi-market, multi-format workload across Portland, Lubbock, and Albany simultaneously.
What It Means: Tanchyk’s move reflects a broader industry trend toward consolidating talent across formats and markets. His career arc — from Albany nights to Seattle APD to Portland brand management — shows steady upward momentum. Landing afternoons on a CHR while keeping a Music Director title demonstrates the kind of versatility operators increasingly value in today’s leaner radio environment.
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Megyn Kelly says she’ll provide comprehensive coverage of the upcoming trial involving the accused killer of Charlie Kirk. Her commitment signals that the case will become a major focus of her SiriusXM program as legal proceedings move forward.
What We Know: Kelly told her audience that her SiriusXM show will follow the case from multiple perspectives. She said coverage will include legal analysis from both defense attorneys and prosecutors. She said she will also examine arguments that challenge the allegations. As a result, listeners can expect regular updates throughout the trial if the case advances as anticipated.
What They Said: “We’re going to cover every single angle of this case for our audience. We’re not going to assume anything. We’re going to go into this with defense attorneys who will argue on Tyler’s behalf, or from the defense perspective, with prosecutors who will argue from the prosecution’s perspective, and from those who think it’s possible this guy had absolutely nothing to do with it. I will take a very fair look at this case as we go on. And I don’t care about any of the (expletive) around this. I care about Charlie, care about his family, and I care about being very factual in our coverage of what happens out there. Both this week and when — as I believe it will be held over for trial — we get to trial. That’s my own commitment to you.” –Megyn Kelly
What Remains Unclear: It’s still unknown what personnel Kelly will use to represent each side of the issue. Likewise, Kelly didn’t specify how frequently the case will be covered by the show. She also did not elaborate on whether additional reporting resources will be dedicated to the effort.
What It Means: High-profile criminal trials often become major programming opportunities for news and talk personalities. Kelly’s approach emphasizes courtroom reporting over commentary. That suggests her SiriusXM show will prioritize legal analysis, factual reporting, and competing viewpoints as one of the country’s most closely watched cases unfolds.
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The Dave & Mahoney Show has landed its 60th affiliate. Cumulus Media’s ALT 92.3 New Orleans is the newest station to carry the Compass Media Networks morning program.
What We Know: The Dave & Mahoney Show, distributed by Compass Media Networks, has added WZRH-FM ALT 92.3 in New Orleans as its 60th affiliate. The Cumulus Media-owned rock alternative station serves the Crescent City market. The show is hosted by Dave Farra and Jason Mahoney, alongside co-host Audrey Drake. It originates from Hubbard Radio’s KSLX-FM in Phoenix.
What They Said: “We are thrilled to be adding our 60th affiliate with Alt 92.3,” said co-host Dave Farra. “The trust that top-level programmers and executives, like the team at Cumulus New Orleans, are putting in our show is humbling. And you can bet your last dollar that we are going to work our butts off to make sure this is a win for everyone involved.”
What Remains Unclear: The show’s launch date on ALT 92.3 has not been announced. It is also unclear whether the New Orleans pickup signals broader expansion plans across additional Cumulus markets. No details about the specific daypart or format integration were included in the announcement.
What It Means: The Dave & Mahoney Show continues to build a formidable national footprint. Compass Media Networks VP of Music & Entertainment Doug Ingold noted the show has proven it can succeed across rock, classic rock, and alternative formats. Reaching 60 affiliates is a meaningful milestone. It positions the program as a serious contender in syndicated morning radio.
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FOX Sports delivered a record-setting audience as the U.S. Men’s National Team defeated Bosnia-Herzegovina. The result provides significant momentum ahead of the World Cup and reinforces soccer’s growing television appeal in the United States.
What We Know: An average of 26 million viewers watched the USMNT’s victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina on FOX. That total made the match the most-watched English-language soccer telecast in U.S. history. It also became the most-watched telecast on any network since Super Bowl LX between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots on February 8, 2026. Meanwhile, the audience peaked at just under 35 million viewers between 9:45 and 10:00 PM ET.
What the Numbers Show: The audience underscores the growing demand for major international soccer on broadcast television. FOX Sports benefited from broad national interest and a favorable platform. In addition, the strongest local markets came from Kansas City, Boston, St. Louis, San Francisco, and Austin. Those results suggest the match generated widespread interest across multiple regions rather than relying on a single geographic area.
What’s At Stake: FOX Sports now has another benchmark to build on as it approaches the final stages of the World Cup. Sustaining this level of interest could strengthen the network’s position with advertisers and reinforce confidence in soccer’s ability to deliver massive broadcast audiences. Continued audience growth would also further validate the sport’s expanding place in the American television landscape.
What It Means: The audience gives FOX Sports another major sports television milestone as it continues building anticipation for the World Cup. Just as importantly, the performance reinforces soccer’s ability to deliver mass audiences on broadcast television. If interest continues climbing, the network enters the World Cup with strong momentum and another data point demonstrating the sport’s expanding mainstream appeal.
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