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WHJY Providence Shakes Lineup After August On-Air Departures

David Hill
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WHJY Providence Shakes Lineup After August On-Air Departures

iHeartMedia’s 94 WHJY overhauled its Providence lineup this week. Paul Fuller and Al Milukas departed at August‘s end.

What We Know Doug Palmieri and Jenn Dower moved from afternoons to mornings at WHJY. The duo anchored mornings at sister station WSNE since 2014. Palmieri originally joined WHJY back in 1999. He’s programmed the rock station since 2014. Meanwhile, Dower worked mostly middays before joining Palmieri in afternoons. She started her current role at WHJY in 2004.

What’s at Stake Morning slots drive rock radio visibility and listener connection. iHeartMedia depends on strong morning personalities to build engagement. Palmieri’s programming expertise directly shapes WHJY’s competitive position. Finally, the shuffle shows how iHeart rotates talent during transitions.

What Remains Unclear Will WHJY maintain its competitive edge without Fuller and Milukas? How will Valentine in the Morning perform on WSNE? Industry observers question whether bigger strategic shifts loom ahead. Does the station plan additional on-air changes soon?

What It Means Meanwhile, Steve Scarpetti returns as afternoon host after departing in January. He originally helmed the afternoons slot starting in 2015. The station now anchors its schedule with proven talent. Furthermore, iHeartMedia values continuity over radical restructuring here. The cluster remains committed to depth across its talent roster. Overall, these moves blend experience with fresh energy throughout WHJY’s day parts.

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

Peter Navarro Confirms Reports About Maria Bartiromo’s Texts in Newsmax Appearance

Garrett Searight
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Peter Navarro Confirms Reports About Maria Bartiromo’s Texts in Newsmax Appearance

Maria Bartiromo’s Fox News exit continues to draw questions about what happened behind the scenes. Peter Navarro has now corroborated key details while appearing on Newsmax.

What We Know: Reports from Status and other outlets said Bartiromo shared internal Fox guidance with White House officials. The guidance reportedly instructed staff not to promote President Donald Trump’s July 16 speech about Chinese interference in U.S. elections. Navarro has now confirmed that Bartiromo sent him the information. He also said the White House subsequently contacted Fox News CEO Suzanne Scott. Fox News announced on September 3 that it had parted ways with Bartiromo after more than 12 years. The network did not provide a reason for her departure. Meanwhile, attorney Bryan Freedman denied reports that Bartiromo was fired over the alleged disclosure. He called the reporting irresponsible and said it showed “a complete and utter reckless disregard for the truth.”

What They Said: “I’m not getting into the details. Remember I went to prison, Greg, for not violating executive privilege, but suffice it to say that Suzanne Scott got a call. Basically, the White House let her know that that kind of thing is totally unacceptable. She didn’t accept that at all. She just went out and fired Maria Bartiromo. That place is out of control.” -Peter Navarro

What Remains Unclear: Navarro’s comments confirm that Bartiromo communicated internal Fox guidance to him and that White House officials contacted Scott. However, Fox News has not publicly confirmed that the communication caused Bartiromo’s departure. Her attorney also continues to dispute the characterization of her exit as a firing.

What It Means: Navarro’s comments provide significant on-the-record support for a central detail in reports surrounding Bartiromo’s departure. Still, the full sequence of events and Fox’s reasoning remain publicly unresolved.

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

Salem Media to Honor Charlie Kirk With One-Year Anniversary Specials

Garrett Searight
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Salem Media to Honor Charlie Kirk With One-Year Anniversary Specials

Charlie Kirk will be remembered across Salem Media one year after his assassination at Utah Valley University. Salem Radio Network and Salem News Channel will mark the anniversary with special programming.

What We Know: On September 10, Salem Radio Network and Salem News Channel will air one-hour specials dedicated to Kirk. The specials will highlight his career and impact as a nationally syndicated news/talk radio host. Kirk also hosted a podcast through the Salem Podcast Network. Mike Gallagher, Larry O’Connor, and Alex Marlow will narrate the special, while Larry Elder will make a special appearance. The radio broadcast will air at 12 PM ET. Meanwhile, Salem News Channel will air the special at 8 PM ET.

What They Said: “There was nobody quite like Charlie. He connected with young people in a way few others could and turned that connection into a movement. For so many of us at Salem, this is deeply personal. This special gives listeners a chance to hear Charlie again and remember the incredible life he lived.” -Salem Media CEO David Santrella

What Remains Unclear: Salem Media hasn’t detailed whether additional programming will accompany the two anniversary broadcasts. The company also hasn’t announced whether Kirk’s previous radio or podcast content will receive expanded distribution around the anniversary.

What It Means: Kirk’s death remains a significant moment for Salem Media and its news/talk audience. By airing the specials across radio and streaming, Salem will give listeners multiple ways to remember Kirk’s work and legacy. The September 10 programming will also underscore Kirk’s role within Salem’s broader media operation.

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Netflix Reportedly Close To Signing Andres Cantor For 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup Coverage

John Mamola
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Netflix Reportedly Close To Signing Andres Cantor For 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup Coverage

Netflix is circling a soccer broadcasting legend. The streamer is reportedly nearing a deal with Andres Cantor for its 2027 Women’s World Cup coverage.

What We Know: According to The Hollywood Reporter, Netflix is in talks with Cantor to lead Spanish-language coverage of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. He’s also expected to have a role in December’s draw. Cantor has called 14 World Cups, including the first Women’s World Cup final in 1991. His 26-year run at Telemundo is reportedly ending soon, clearing his path to Netflix.

What’s At Stake: Netflix hosting the action of the Women’s World Cup will be a massive opportunity for the platform to showcase its drawing power to the world’s biggest sporting events. With bidding on the 2030 men’s World Cup upcoming, this event could position Netflix to be in great favor with FIFA for a bid to host the 2030 tournament.

What Remains Unclear: Terms and timing of any Netflix-Cantor agreement haven’t surfaced yet. Netflix did not comment on the reporting by The Hollywood Reporter.

What It Means: Landing Cantor would instantly boost Netflix’s credibility in Spanish-language soccer. It also underscores Netflix’s growing push into live sports programming. Still, with Fox, Disney, and NBCUniversal all eyeing future FIFA rights, broadcasters like Cantor may want flexibility beyond the upcoming FIFA women’s world cup. That leverage could shape how loyal talent stays as bidding unfolds.

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

Dan Bongino, Ben Shapiro, Fox News See Top August Finishes in Podtrac Rankings

Garrett Searight
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Dan Bongino, Ben Shapiro, Fox News See Top August Finishes in Podtrac Rankings

The August Podtrac rankings show continued stability, with Dan Bongino and Ben Shapiro remaining among the leading news podcasts. Podtrac saw its first major movement outside the top 11, as several familiar news shows remained prominent.

What We Know: The top 11 shows remained unchanged from July, signaling continued consistency among the biggest podcasts measured by Podtrac. However, The Ezra Klein Show made the first move inside the rankings, jumping five positions to No. 12. The climb pushed The Shawn Ryan Show to No. 14 and The Dan Bongino Show to No. 15.

What the Numbers Show: The Daily remained the top news podcast in August, finishing No. 2 overall. NPR also continued to perform well, with NPR News Now ranking No. 3 and Up First From NPR landing No. 4. Meanwhile, Fox News Hourly Update finished No. 6. Pod Save America ranked No. 8, while The Ben Shapiro Show took No. 9. Today, Explained rounded out the news-related shows in the top 20 at No. 17.

What Remains Unclear: The August rankings don’t reveal what drove Klein’s five-position jump or whether the move represents a broader trend. Podtrac also doesn’t provide enough context to determine whether individual programming, news cycles, or audience behavior drove the changes.

What It Means: Stability remains the bigger story across the August rankings, particularly among the industry’s largest podcasts. Still, Klein’s rise shows how quickly rankings can shift beyond the established leaders. Meanwhile, the continued presence of major news and political podcasts reinforces their importance within the broader podcasting ecosystem.

ESPN Extends Women’s Sports Sundays Into Fall With College Volleyball, Boxing and More

John Mamola
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ESPN Extends Women’s Sports Sundays Into Fall With College Volleyball, Boxing and More

ESPN is extending Women’s Sports Sundays into fall 2026. The franchise adds volleyball, WNBA, NWSL and boxing coverage across 11 straight weeks.

What We Know: The network launched Women’s Sports Sundays this summer, filling the void left when Sunday Night Baseball moved to NBC. Now the franchise expands for fall, starting September 13. Over 11 consecutive weeks, the network will air women’s college volleyball, NWSL, WNBA playoffs, and boxing. In addition, some women’s college basketball and WTGL events will be announced.

What They Said: Susie Piotrkowski, ESPN Vice President, Women’s Sports Programming & espnW: “Following this summer’s inaugural run of Women’s Sports Sundays, we are excited to continue building this franchise through a tremendous amount of collaboration and intentionality. Women’s Sports Sundays is a unique, growing franchise that showcases the full power of our women’s sports portfolio. With this expansion we are continuing to do what we do best – serving both established and new women’s sports fans anytime, anywhere.”

What Remains Unclear: Specific details for Women’s College Basketball and WTGL coverage haven’t been announced yet. Meanwhile, the October 11 WNBA semifinal start time depends on playoff results. It’s also unclear whether fall ratings will match last summer’s strong debut numbers. Moreover, through the first three weeks of the campaign, WNBA games on Women’s Sports Sundays averaged 1.04 million viewers.

What It Means: This expansion shows ESPN continues to bet on women’s sports as a year-round draw, not a seasonal experiment. Consequently, the network strengthens its case as a premier destination for female athletes and fans alike. Moreover, adding volleyball and boxing broadens the audience the network can reach. Ultimately, Women’s Sports Sundays looks built to last.

DateTimeMatchup / Event
Sun., Sep. 135 p.m.College Volleyball – Paradise Invitational: Winner vs. Winner
Sun., Sep. 138 p.m.College Volleyball: UCLA at Utah
Sun., Sep. 205 p.m.NWSL: Chicago Stars vs. Washington Spirit
Sun., Sep. 275 p.m.NWSL: Bay FC vs. Orlando Pride
Sun., Sep. 278:30 p.m.College Volleyball: Stanford at Pitt
Sun., Oct. 45 p.m.College Volleyball: Iowa State at Arizona State
Sun., Oct. 48:30 p.m.College Volleyball: Kentucky at Florida
Sun., Oct. 111 p.m.College Volleyball: Stanford at Louisville
Sun., Oct. 113 p.m.College Volleyball: Pitt at SMU vs.
Sun., Oct. 112 or 4 p.m.WNBA Playoffs: Semifinal, Game 4 (if necessary)
Sun., Oct. 185 p.m.NWSL: Bay FC vs. Portland Thorns FC
Sun., Oct. 188:30 p.m.College Volleyball: Florida at Texas
Sun., Oct. 255 p.m.NWSL: Kansas City vs. Washington
Sun., Oct. 258:30 p.m.College Volleyball: Stanford at North Carolina
Sun., Nov. 15 p.m.NWSL: Decision Day
Sun., Nov. 88:30 p.m.MVPW-07: Turhan vs. Baumgardner
Sun., Nov. 158:30 p.m.College Volleyball: Louisville at Pitt
Sun., Nov. 296 p.m.NCAA Volleyball Selection Special

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

The Ryan Gorman Show Added to Mornings at WFLA Orlando

Garrett Searight
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The Ryan Gorman Show Added to Mornings at WFLA Orlando

Ryan Gorman is expanding his Florida radio footprint, with The Ryan Gorman Show joining WFLA Orlando. The morning show will replace Simon Conway following his departure last month.

What We Know: The Ryan Gorman Show will air from 6-9 AM on WFLA Orlando, extending Gorman and Dana McKay’s reach across Central Florida. The program already airs on WFLA in Tampa and 610 WIOD in Miami. Gorman and McKay have built the show around news, talk, and issues affecting listeners throughout the state. Meanwhile, the Orlando addition gives iHeartMedia another opportunity to expand a locally relevant morning program across its Florida radio footprint.

What They Said: “The Ryan Gorman Show team is looking forward to bringing our unique style of news and talk to the Orlando area. We can’t wait to begin entertaining more of our fellow Floridians!” -Ryan Gorman

“Ryan and Dana have built a show that is informative, entertaining and distinctly Florida. Their understanding of the stories and issues that matter to Floridians, combined with the reach of iHeart’s broadcast, digital and social platforms, creates a powerful way to engage and connect with listeners and advertisers across Orlando.” -iHeartMedia Orlando Market President Judy Copier

“Ryan and Dana bring an authentic connection to Florida and a unique ability to tackle the biggest stories of the day in an entertaining way. We’re thrilled to bring the show to Orlando and continue WFLA’s legacy of delivering trusted news and engaging content.” –SVP of News and AM Programming Florida Region and NTS Brand Coordinator Grace Blazer

What Remains Unclear: iHeartMedia hasn’t announced whether the Orlando edition will feature any market-specific elements or additional local contributors. The company also hasn’t detailed any other programming changes surrounding the new morning lineup.

What It Means: The move further establishes Gorman and McKay as a key part of iHeartMedia’s Florida news and talk strategy. Additionally, adding the show in Orlando creates a larger statewide footprint for the program while filling the morning slot Conway left behind.

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

Westwood One Announces NFL Play by Play Pairings for 2026 Season

John Mamola
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Westwood One Announces NFL Play by Play Pairings for 2026 Season

Westwood One kicks off its 2026 NFL season tonight. The network celebrates its 40th consecutive year broadcasting NFL games.

What We Know: Westwood One’s new season opens tonight with Patriots-Seahawks from Lumen Field in Seattle. The international package also grows from seven games to eight this year. Additionally, James Lofton joins the roster of game analysts for 2026.

Broadcast Teams:

BroadcastTalent
Monday Night FootballKevin Harlan, Kurt Warner
Super Bowl LXIIKevin Harlan, Kurt Warner
Thursday Night FootballKevin Kugler, Devin McCourty (Rotation), Ross Tucker (Rotation)
Sunday Night FootballRyan Radtke, Mike Golic
PBP (National Package)Jason Benetti, Tom McCarthy, Noah Eagle, J.P. Shadrick, John Sadak
Analysts (National Package)Mike Mayock, Ryan Harris, Ryan Leaf, Derek Rackley, James Lofton
Monday Night Football Pregame HalftimeJaime Erdahl, Doug Pederson
All Other Games Pregame Halftime PostgameScott Graham

What Remains Unclear: Jamie Erdahl and Doug Pederson now anchor the Monday Night Football pregame show. They replace Mike Golic Sr. and Mike Golic Jr in that role. Specific game by game assignments are unknown.

What It Means: For fans, the top of the roster stays stable heading into 2026. Harlan and Warner remain the network’s anchor voices for its biggest games. Meanwhile, with some analysts and play by play talent taking on new roles this NFL season away from Westwood One, some changes were made to accommodate from last year’s lineup. Ultimately, the network is pairing continuity with new faces to keep its NFL coverage competitive.

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FOX Sports Debuts New Digital Program Featuring Rob Gronkowski, Julian Edelman

John Mamola
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FOX Sports Debuts New Digital Program Featuring Rob Gronkowski, Julian Edelman

FOX Sports has a new football show launching as the new NFL season begins. Gronk and Jules are back together — this time behind a mic.

What We Know: FOX Sports launched The Gronk & Jules Show today. The digital series pairs Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman twice a week. Both are Super Bowl champions who won together as New England Patriots, and now serve as FOX NFL analysts. Also, Shadow Lion, founded by Tom Brady, produces the series. It is executive produced by FOX Sports’ Eric Shanks and Brad Zager, alongside Shadow Lion’s Gilad Haas, Jeff Fine, Lior Haas and Philip Byron. The show’s producers include Danny Healey, Sam Biggers, Mitch Anderson and Jack McCarthy.

What They Said: Brad Zager, FOX Sports President and Executive Producer: “Rob and Julian’s passion for football and natural chemistry from years of competing and winning at the highest level comes through to fans every time they are together. The Gronk & Jules Show is exactly the kind of premium, superstar athlete-driven, fun and informative content viewers have come to expect from FOX Sports.”

Rob Gronkowski: “Every Sunday, me, Jules and the rest of the FOX NFL crew are watching football for 10 hours. Just like everyone else. This is a great way for us to get our takes from the week out when they’re right on the top of our minds.”

Julian Edelman: “Rob and I are part of a group chat with the FOX crew that gets very active on NFL Sundays. So, this show is like we’re adding everyone to the group chat.”

What Remains Unclear: FOX Sports hasn’t said how many episodes it plans for this season. Whether the series continues past this NFL season is unclear too.

What It Means: The Gronk & Jules Show gives FOX Sports another athlete-driven property to build around on their digital platforms. In addition, it leans on the duo’s real chemistry, forged as Patriots teammates and refined on FOX’s NFL set. For fans, it promises unfiltered access rarely found in traditional broadcasts. And for FOX, it’s a bet that star power drives engagement across digital, podcast and social platforms.

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

Ben Marcotte Named Program Director San Diego Rock 105.3 & KGB FM

David Hill
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Ben Marcotte Named Program Director San Diego Rock 105.3 & KGB FM

Ben Marcotte takes over San Diego’s legendary rock stations immediately. He brings 14 years of iHeartMedia programming experience to the dual-market role.

What We Know Ben Marcotte is now Program Director for Rock 105.3 FM and 101.5 KGB FM in San Diego effective immediately. He arrives from the Indianapolis and St. Louis market, where he served as Senior Vice President of Programming. His career spans Q95, Indy 103.3, 96.5 JACK-FM, and ALT 102.9. In his new role, he manages programming, social media strategy, and digital initiatives.

What They Said Gene Romano, iHeartMedia’s Executive Vice President of Programming, praised the move: “Ben’s broad background in rock makes him a perfect fit. He’s always curious and creative on how to keep up with listener’s always evolving tastes. He’ll bring some full volume fun with him to the west coast!” Marcotte expressed enthusiasm, adding, “This felt like one of those opportunities you don’t overthink. Two legendary stations, incredible teams, and a chance to do great radio in San Diego.”

What Remains Unclear Details about specific programming changes remain unconfirmed. Additionally, no announcements exist regarding on-air talent shifts at either station. Finally, Marcotte’s strategy for balancing two distinct rock formats hasn’t been disclosed publicly.

What It Means Marcotte’s appointment signals iHeartMedia’s commitment to strengthening San Diego’s rock radio presence. The dual-market assignment puts renewed focus on format competition and listener engagement across the West Coast market. Ultimately, his extensive track record suggests the company expects significant programming innovation at both stations.

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