This is a slippery slope not only for journalists but for all broadcasters as it relates to the First Amendment, decency rules, perhaps mergers and acquisitions, and even satire.
In a recent letter, FCC Chairman Carr asked for details about how iHeartMedia organizes events like this and how it ensures compliance with federal payola laws.
"In September 2025 we'll celebrate 10 years in business. I never expected that when this journey began, and I'm damn proud that we've survived this long and continue to grow."
"There is a long list of professionals who are very much capable of not only creating timely local content but innovative content. They are people who can engage directly with others."
"I’ve had an amazing life because of radio, and have done things I could only dream of because of it. For that I am eternally grateful. But this job is not fun anymore. The pay is still low, and I’ve seen more people cry at work the past two years than I’ve seen in the previous thirty."
iHeart’s CEO Bob Pittman commented on the company’s Q3 earnings call to Barrington Research’s Jim Goss: “There’s not a slot for everybody.” Let that sink in.
"There is a responsibility that comes with making these decisions, not just in who is let go, but in how the news is communicated. When that control slips and information leaks before leadership delivers the message directly, it doesn't just create headlines—it erodes trust.