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Audacy Begins Another Round of Layoffs Impacting Nearly 100


Audacy
Audacy

Audacy recently announced another round of layoffs, impacting nearly 100 employees across various stations including WBBM in Chicago, WTIC-AM in Hartford, and others. Notable departures include WBBM afternoon news anchor Keith Johnson, where five of the eight digital news staff positions were also eliminated. In Hartford, news anchors Kevin Gorden and Greg Little from 1080 WTIC have left the station. Additionally, KDKA saw a lineup change with afternoon host Rick Dayton departing.

These layoffs were part of a company-wide reduction that affected less than 2% of Audacy's workforce, a move described by the company as necessary for its long-term growth. Audacy, which is recovering from a pre-packaged bankruptcy filing earlier this year, stated that these layoffs were tough but essential steps in aligning with their 2024 business plan, aimed at emerging as a stronger entity with a robust financial standing.

Employees affected have shared their experiences, with Mike Kadlick, a former Patriots reporter for WEEI in Boston, expressing his disappointment on X after being let go just before the NFL Draft. Another New York-based employee reflected on LinkedIn about the difficulty of losing talented colleagues. The company asserts that these strategic decisions are integral to reinforcing their market position and ensuring sustainable growth.

RAB Launches New Pro Development Certification Course


Radio Advertising Bureau
Radio Advertising Bureau

RAB launches a unique training certification program tailored to content creators in broadcast radio and audio. The new course is built upon the fundamentals and hallmarks of RAB's certified Radio Marketing Consulting course. Developed and produced by RAB's Professional Development team, the course focuses on helping build a greater understanding between content creators and sellers in an evolving and expanding media landscape.

The training targets those who are in content creation for media companies and caters to Program and Production Directors, Operations Managers, Promotions and Brand Directors, air talent, web designers, podcasters and social media managers.

There are eight online classes containing multiple short video modules that are easy to consume and provide immediately actionable takeaways. The course consists of key topics including branding and marketing, understanding sales basics, commercial creative the new integrated, multi-platform, media landscape, effective communications and best practices for high performers.

Instruction and training for the course is overseen by RAB's Professional Development team and contributions by content creators who provide their insights into the relationship of sales and content monetization.

Contributors include Tony Coles, president of multi-cultural business and development and president of Black Information Network (BIN); Elaina D. Smith, host of the nationally syndicated Nights with Elaina Show; Keith Hastings, brand and content director of Hubbard Radio Chicago; Sheri Lynch, co-host of nationally syndicated Bob & Sheri radio show, and Mike McVay, president of McVay Media Consulting. The course features a view from the top -- content creators providing their insights on the relationship between sales and content monetization.

"I'm delighted RAB is launching this one-of-a-kind training program as I've been thinking about this course since I first joined the organization," said outgoing RAB President and CEO Erica Farber. "As I like to say, we are all in sales, and while not everyone working at a radio station is directly accountable for sales, each and every radio employee has a direct influence over revenue coming into the company."

"I was excited to learn that RAB was developing a sales and marketing course for programmers. I was even more excited when they asked me to participate," stated McVay Media Consulting President Mike McVay. "This business is so complex, and so rapidly changing, that it's a great practice for those of us in content creation to learn everything we can about the business ... including sales."

RAB is launching the course with an introductory offer. To find out more information about CRMC Content Creators and RAB's complete Professional Development offerings, click here.

FSR, iHeartSports Team for Coverage of 2024 NFL Draft


FOX Sports Radio
FOX Sports Radio

FOX Sports Radio joined forces this week to provide sports fans with coverage of the 2024 NFL Draft. FSR featured live, wall-to-wall coverage of the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft on Thursday, April 25. More than 300 stations across the country aired the network's 24th annual "Draft Night Live" programming, which was led by FOX NFL Insider Jay Glazer. He was joined by former Arizona Cardinals General Manager Steve Keim.

Coverage was also provided by former No. 2 overall draft pick and co-host of FSR's Two Pros and a Cup of Joe, LaVar Arrington and FOX Sports commentator and Big Noon Kickoff host Rob Stone, who delivered live predictions, analysis and reactions throughout the night as all 32 picks were made.

The iHeartSports Network is featuring live, local draft updates through the final round on Saturday, April 27.

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iHeartPodcasts to Launch ''Call It What It Is'' on June 3


''Call It What It Is''
''Call It What It Is''

iHeartPodcasts together with best friends Jessica Capshaw and Camilla Luddington, announce an all-new weekly podcast entitled "Call It What It Is." The premiere episode will debut on June 3. As all besties do, they navigate the highs and lows of life together. When one of them sends out the distress signal, the other one always answers the call. Big or small, they are there for each other.

Although Jessica and Camilla's characters weren't close on "Grey's Anatomy," the two became best friends off the screen. As fans and viewers know all too well, these two have so many stories left to share, and with "Call It What It Is," they'll be spilling it all. Jessica and Camilla will open their vault full of secrets, stories, and life experiences for listeners everywhere.

Someone's cheating? They got you on that. In-laws are in-lawing? Let's get into it. Toxic friendships? Air it out. They're on your side to help you with your concerns, talk about theirs and every once in a while bring on an awesome guest to get their take on the things that you bring them. While they may be unlicensed to advise, they're gonna do it anyway.

FCC Hits Pirate Stations with Fines Exceeding $850,000


Federal Communications Commission
Federal Communications Commission

The FCC has taken a strong stance against illegal broadcasting by proposing hefty fines totaling over $850,000 against operators of six pirate radio stations. This action comes as part of a broader effort under the PIRATE Act to curb unauthorized radio transmissions that have been identified in the Boston area.

In a significant sweep conducted by the FCC's Enforcement Bureau, seven individuals have been identified as operators of pirate radio stations that illegally broadcast on FM and AM frequencies. These operations are not only unlawful under the Communications Act of 1934 but the agency says they also pose serious public safety risks by potentially interfering with emergency alert systems.

The FCC's crackdown includes a proposed fine of $597,775 against Jean Marius for operating "Radio Tele Planet Compas" across several locations including Brockton, Randolph, and Mattapan, MA. Other operators facing substantial fines include Renold David, who may have to pay $120,000 for running "Lotnivo FM" in Brockton, and Shane Kelly, facing a $20,000 penalty for "The Test 87.9 FM" in Hyannis, MA. Additionally, fines of $40,000 each are proposed against Joao Vieira, Robert Bellinger, Djovany Pierre, and Mario Turner for their involvement in various unauthorized stations in Massachusetts.

The actions taken by the FCC are backed by the Preventing Illegal Radio Abuse Through Enforcement Act (PIRATE Act), which was enhanced in 2020 to provide the commission with greater enforcement capabilities. This includes the ability to levy fines up to $119,555 per day, with a maximum cap of nearly $2.4 million. The Act also empowers the FCC to target landlords and property owners who knowingly allow pirate operations on their premises.

These proposed fines, or Notices of Apparent Liability for Forfeiture (NALs), are preliminary. The accused parties will have the opportunity to respond to the allegations and defend their actions before any final decisions are made and penalties are enforced. The FCC will review all submissions before determining further legal actions to finalize the penalties.

Nielsen Releases 2024 Annual Marketing Report


Nielsen
Nielsen

As the world grapples with economic uncertainties and ongoing digital transformation, Nielsen's 2024 Annual Marketing Report provides crucial insights into the evolving landscape of media and advertising. Amidst fears of a recession and challenges like inflation and supply chain disruptions, the report sheds light on how global marketers are strategizing to maximize their return on investment (ROI).

Among the key findings:

Increased Optimism in Ad Spending
Despite economic challenges, 72% of global marketers anticipate increased ad budgets in 2024, up from 64% in the previous year. This optimism is particularly strong in the Asia-Pacific region, where 81% expect budget hikes.

Misalignment Between Tactics and Objectives
While long-term and full-funnel ROI remain the top Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), 70% of marketers are prioritizing performance marketing over brand-building, potentially undermining their long-term marketing goals.

Digital Dominance and Its Risks
Marketers are allocating nearly two-thirds of their budgets to digital channels. However, this heavy investment in digital might not yield the holistic returns they aim for, as traditional and digital marketing are not always evaluated together.

Confidence in Measurement vs. Holistic Evaluation
A significant 84% of marketers express confidence in their ROI measurement capabilities, a rise from 69% last year. Nonetheless, only 38% assess the holistic ROI of their efforts, combining both traditional and digital marketing metrics.

The report highlights the continued rise of retail media networks and Connected TV (CTV) as crucial platforms, with marketers increasingly integrating these into their media plans. Despite the allure of digital media, the report emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced media mix to achieve both short-term sales and long-term brand growth. Marketers are advised to focus on channels that align best with their specific KPIs. With a growing fragmentation in media consumption, reaching audiences effectively requires a deeper understanding of media engagement and a cross-media approach to campaign planning.

Nielsen's report suggests that while digital channels offer unprecedented measurability and the promise of direct ROI, the complexity of today's media landscape demands a more nuanced approach to media planning. Marketers need to balance performance marketing with brand-building and employ comprehensive measurement strategies to navigate the challenges of a fragmented media world successfully.

This nuanced approach to understanding and implementing strategies across various media channels will be critical for marketers aiming to optimize their advertising spends and achieve sustainable growth in the coming years.

To download the report, click here

NAB Radio Board Election Results Announced


National Association of Broadcasters
National Association of Broadcasters

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has announced the results of the 2024 NAB Radio Board of Directors elections. The two-year terms of the elected board members will begin in June, 2024. New board members include Beasley Media Vice President and Market Manager Mary Menna for District 2 (NY, NJ), Saga President and CEO Chris Forgy for District 6 (NC, SC) and Woof Boom Radio President and majority owner Jerry "J" Chapman for District 10 (IN).

Here is the complete list of NAB Radio board members in the even-numbered districts:

Mary Menna
Vice President and Market Manager
Beasley Media
District 2 - NY, NJ

Chris Forgy
President and CEO
Saga Communications
District 6 - NC, SC

Jerry "J" Chapman
President and majority owner
Woof Boom Radio
District 10 - IN

Jeanna Berge
President, Multi-Platform Group
iHeart Media
District 14 - IA, WI

Ben Downs
Vice President
Bryan Broadcasting
District 18 - Southern TX

Tim Swift
Executive Vice President, Strategy and Technology
Bonneville International Corporation
District 22 - AZ, NV, NM, UT

Leonard Wheeler
President
Mel Wheeler, Inc.
District 4 - DE, DC, MD, VA

Flynn Foster
President/Owner
Guaranty Media
District 8 - LA, MS

Erik Hellum
Chief Operating Officer
Townsquare Media
District 12 - MO, KS

Andrew Sutor
Executive Vice President and General Counsel
Audacy
District 16 - CO, NE

Larry Patrick
Managing Partner
Legend Communications, LLC
District 20 - MT, ID, WY

Bob Proffitt
President and CEO
Alpha Media LLC
District 24 - Southern CA, Guam, HI, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Island

Effective immediately, Woof Boom Radio President and majority owner Jerry "J" Chapman will assume the District 10 (IN) board seat that was held by Michael Hulvey of Neuhoff Media. Starting in June, 2024, Radio One Regional VP/GM Ohio Eddie Harrell, Jr. will be appointed to the designated seat held by Urban One's Alfred Liggins.

Doug Stephan's Good Day Restructures for Weekends, Flex


''The Good Day Show with Doug Stephan & Jai Kershner''
''The Good Day Show with Doug Stephan & Jai Kershner''

"The Good Day Show with Doug Stephan & Jai Kershner" will end its long run as a morning program with its final program via Wegner/Echobox on May 3. The program will be replaced with two weekend offerings -- "Good Day Saturday" and "Good Day Sunday" -- featuring new content that are four hours each day. The new programs will be delivered via FTP.

The two individually produced shows will be hosted for all eight hours by Doug Stephan & Jai Kershner, and will continue to feature regular and special guests. The "Good Day Saturday" and "Good Day Sunday" program will be modular so that in addition to airing them on the weekend, you can also air the hours individually or in any combination to present them daily as a one- or two-hour program.

Doug Stephan said, "This isn't goodbye, but it is changing when and how we will deliver our program. Weekends are a vast wasteland of infomercials and reruns. The content on this new show aligns with the same positive approach, features and friends that listeners have become accustomed to from "Good Day."

He continued, "This new program is deliberately formatted so each hour stands on its own and can be used in any daypart on the weekend or weekdays, and it can be aired more than once, should you want to do that."

Doug Stephan's "Good Day" has been a daily program for 36 years. The show shifts to United Stations Media Networks for distribution via FTP with this change. Stephan's podcast programs remain unchanged including the daily Good Day podcast.

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iHeartMedia Wins Webby Podcast Company of the Year


iHeartMedia
iHeartMedia

iHeartMedia is named the Webby Podcast Company of the Year, a Special Achievement Award for podcast companies with the largest body of Webby-winning, nominated and honored work across all Podcasts categories. In 2024, iHeart was recognized with 18 Webby Awards, 38 nominations and 16 honorees across its networks.

The winning shows included "Six Degrees with Kevin Bacon," in the Public Service & Activism category; "Questlove Supreme" in the music category; "The Laverne Cox Show" in the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion category; "Mobituaries with Mo Rocca" in the History and Arts & Culture categories; "Unreformed: the Story of the Alabama Industrial School for Negro Children" in the Best Writing category, "Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang" in the Comedy category; "Club Shay Shay" in the Best Individual Episode and Featured Guest category; "Nightcap" in the Sports category; "The Draymond Green Show" in the Best Live Pod Recording; and "Supreme: The Battle for Roe" in the Scripted category.

Other iHeart shows receiving nominations, some across several categories, include "Parenting is a Joke," "On Purpose with Jay Shetty," "The Girlfriends," "Films to Be Buried With with Brett Goldstein," "Hold Up with Dulce Sloan & Josh Johnson from The Daily Show," "Dear Alana," "Freeway Phantom," "Who Killed JFK?" "Amplify Color," "BFF: Black, Fat, Femme," "See You In Your Nightmares," "In Retrospect," "Just B with Bethenny Frankel," "Sacred Scandal: La Luz Del Mundo," "Earwitness," "She Wants More," "The War on Drugs," "Radical," "Jill Scott Presents: J.ill the Podcast," "When You're Invisible," "The Puzzler," "Amazing Wildlife," "Mind the Business," "Go Ask Ali," "Big Sugar," "You Feeling This?" and "Out of the Shadows."

The Webby Awards is an international awards program that celebrates the best of the internet across various forms of media, including websites, video, advertising, media and PR, social, apps and podcasts. The ceremony is overseen by the International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences. This group selects five nominees for each category and then the winner. Nominees in each category are also in the running for a Webby People's Voice Award, which is selected by a public vote from the online community.

''Chachi Loves Everybody'' Releases Two New Episodes


''Chachi Loves Everybody''
''Chachi Loves Everybody''

Benztown releases two new episodes of "Chachi Loves Everybody," an original podcast featuring Benztown President and audio brand builder Dave "Chachi" Denes. The episodes feature Chachi's recent sit-down at the 2024 NAB Show in Las Vegas with RAB CEO Mike Hulvey, and his chat with Epic Media Founder Brad Samuel from Benztown's Los Angeles studios. To listen to the new podcast episodes, visit: here.

Chachi Loves Everybody takes listeners with Denes -- better known as "Chachi" -- as he sits down for candid conversations with radio's legends, master brand builders, up-and-comers, and innovators in the burgeoning audio space, revealing the true stories behind their successes and their insights into building iconic brands through audio.

Chachi's first guest is Mike Hulvey, newly appointed CEO of the RAB, who takes listeners through his journey from being awe-struck by radio broadcasts at a young age to eventually climbing the ranks of broadcast management and leadership. Hulvey delves into his vision for the future of radio and the significance of local content engagement. He shares highlights and lessons learned in his career, the impact of his early influences, and his passion for developing future broadcasting talent through his summer mentoring program.

Hulvey has held prominent positions in various industry organizations, including the International Broadcasters Idea Bank and the National Association of Broadcasters. An advocate for local, state, and national volunteer organizations, he is also the founder of a nationally recognized summer mentoring program for aspiring broadcasters. Before joining the RAB as President and CEO, he was CEO of Neuhoff Communications.

Chachi's second guest, media veteran Brad Samuel, shares his journey from an enthusiastic 15-year-old intern in radio to a media consultant and founder and owner of his own agency, Epic Media. His stories are filled with lessons on determination, embracing rejection, and the importance of pursuing one's passion relentlessly.

Brad's career highlights include management positions at Radio Disney, LSM for extra Sports Los Angeles, GSM for KFI, and GM for KYSR 98.7. He also served as the Director of Sales for iHeartMedia's eight San Diego, CA, stations. In 2010, Brad took a significant leap and founded Epic Media, where he consults for diverse sectors including restaurants, casinos, and Fintech, represents media talent and influencers, and advises audio networks and digital agencies.

Ryan's Riding the OC to LA for 20th Anniversary


Ryan's Ridin' OC to LA
Ryan's Ridin' OC to LA

In celebration of 20 years on the air at KIIS-FM in Los Angeles, the "On Air with Ryan Seacrest" morning show is hitting the road to meet listeners at some of the meaningful small businesses that have been a part of the show throughout the years. It all started Thursday, April 25 as Seacrest began his tour at 7am PT and rode from the OC to LA and made stops at some of his favorite locations throughout the city.

The remaining tour stops in Los Angeles and Burbank are open to the public. Listeners are encouraged to stop by and say hi to Secrest and the crew and have the chance at some great prizes. Ryan will be "Paying Bills" for a lucky winner at each stop.

Report: Social Media Platforms Influence Music Discovery


Edison Research
Edison Research

In the digital age, social media platforms have become more than just places to connect -- as they are sources for cultural discovery. The latest findings from The Infinite Dial 2024, supported by Audacy, Cumulus Media and SiriusXM Media, unveil how platforms like Instagram, TikTok and Facebook are also sources for discovering music.

Social media platforms are embedded into the lives of the majority of Americans 12 and over. 63% of Americans use Facebook, 44% use Instagram and usage of TikTok is close behind at 35%. Yet the power of these platforms is not just measured by usage -- it's also about influence.

According to The Infinite Dial 2024, 48% of Americans age 12 say it is "very" or "somewhat" important to keep up to date with music. Among this audience, 40% use Instagram as a source to find out about music. TikTok trails behind at 36%, while Facebook maintains a solid presence with 32% of Americans using it for discovering music.

Instagram provides diverse avenues for musicians to showcase their craft and engage with audiences authentically with IGTV and Stories. Meanwhile, TikTok's algorithmic feed delivers an endless stream of short-form content tailored to users' preferences. TikTok's music-centered features and viral challenges have also propelled the platform into a breeding ground for new trends and breakout hits, allowing emerging artists to rise to fame and audiences to establish favorite music. Even Facebook plays a significant role in music discovery, serving as a platform for users to connect with artists, explore new releases, and share their musical experiences with friends and followers.

The Infinite Dial 2024 report illustrates the power social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok and Facebook have in promoting a wide variety of music and artists to users. While interesting, this insight only scratches the surface of music discovery data from the full study. Edison Research promises to provide future insights and reports that dive into how specific audiences discover and learn about music.

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Baldassano Recipient of MIW's Preston Trailblazer Award


Corinne Baldassano
Corinne Baldassano

Mentoring and Inspiring Women in Radio (MIW) names Corinne Baldassano as the 2024 MIW Frances Preston Trailblazer. Corinne most recently served as Senior Vice President of Programming & Marketing at Take On The Day LLC/The Dr. Laura Program. MIW's Trailblazer Award, named for music industry pioneer and longtime BMI President and CEO Frances Preston, is MIW's highest accolade. It's presented annually to a woman who, through her leadership and accomplishments in the industry, champions and creates opportunities for other women in radio to further their careers.

Baldassano is a radio veteran with a long, extremely successful and storied career, which began at WHN Radio in New York City, where she started as an Editorial Researcher and rose to Music Director. She spent 16 years with ABC, including roles as Music Director at WPLJ-FM in New York and Program Director at KAUM-FM in Houston. She also served as Program Director under Boston Globe's WSAI-FM in Cincinnati.

Later, Corinne was named Program Director of ABC's Contemporary and FM Radio Networks, Director of the ABC Entertainment Radio Network, and Vice President of Programming for ABC Radio Networks, overseeing major programs like American Top 40. She also served on the board of directors for Nashville's Country Radio Broadcasters and worked as Vice President of Programming at Westwood One, and Senior Vice President of Programming at Sony's SW Networks.

Corinne became General Manager of the Radio Division at the Associated Press and most recently served as the Senior Vice President of Programming and Marketing at Take On The Day LLC. She is a founding member of the MIWs and serves on its Advisory Board.

The MIW Trailblazer Award was presented during the 2024 National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) Show on the Main Stage on Monday, April 15th.

MIW Board President Ruth Presslaff commented, "Corinne's remarkable career firmly establishes her as a Trailblazer. In addition to all she's accomplished, her selfless devotion to mentoring women and men, and absolute delight in helping them achieve their goals, is the essence of who she is. She is truly a mentor of mentors. We are thrilled to recognize her with our highest award."

Corinne added, "I am honored to accept this year's Trailblazer Award from the MIWs. As I built my career, it was natural for me to offer guidance to others who also wanted to take a similar path. And it's turned out to be one of the most important and satisfying things I've ever done. I'm proud of those I have mentored and I'm humbled to be recognized by an organization committed to fostering the growth of broadcasting's next generation of women. I'm happy to see my work and theirs come full circle."

Corinne joins a group of media professionals who are esteemed for their leadership and dedication to the radio industry. Prior honorees include the late Laurie Kahn (2023), Michelle Duke (2022); Christine Travaglini (2019); Julie Talbott (2018); Mary Quass (2017); Beth Neuhoff (2016); Kim Guthrie (2015); Diane Sutter (2014); Weezie Kramer (2013); Caroline Beasley (2012); Ginny Hubbard Morris (2011); Lynn Anderson (2010); and Erica Farber (2009).

Report: Podcast Workers File Complaint Against iHeartMedia


iHeartMedia
iHeartMedia

Unionized podcast workers at iHeartMedia, represented by the Writers Guild of America East, have lodged an unfair labor practice complaint against their employer with the National Labor Relations Board, reports the Hollywood Reporter. The employees accuse the media giant of intimidation tactics and infringing upon their rights to openly discuss working conditions and union activities during breaks. This issue has emerged during ongoing contract negotiations that began when iHeartMedia acknowledged the union in 2022, but have since become contentious.

The complaint details several alleged violations by iHeartMedia, including restricting conversations about union organizing, engaging in intimidating behavior, and questioning employees about their union support. These actions purportedly are contrary to a section of the National Labor Relations Act, impacting about 100 workers involved in well-known podcasts like "Stuff You Should Know" and "Atlanta Monster."

The union has also publicly criticized the company for its bargaining tactics, which have included low offers on salary and benefits, and disputes over fundamental union protections such as just cause and minimum severance guarantees. Amid these tensions, the union has voiced its frustrations on social media, notably regarding iHeartMedia's extravagant expenditures contrasted with its stance on employee compensation.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, as negotiations have dragged on, the union reports that management has quickly removed union flyers posted in the workplace and sent emails discouraging such activities, allegedly undermining workers' federally protected rights. The union interprets these actions as an attempt by iHeartMedia to pressure employees into accepting unfavorable terms.

The labor dispute continues to focus on key issues like establishing salary minimums and annual raises, along with enhancing parental leave and health benefits. Workers express a strong desire for a fair resolution in the near future, emphasizing their ongoing commitment to advocacy and negotiation.

Read the Hollywood Reporter's story here.

FTC Votes to Bans Non-Compete Agreements & Clauses


Federal Trade Commission
Federal Trade Commission

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) voted 3-2 to prohibit non-compete agreements on Tuesday. This decision, subject to ongoing legal challenges, will render existing non-compete clauses unenforceable for the vast majority of employees within 120 days. However, certain senior executives will still be covered by these existing agreements, although employers will be barred from initiating new contracts or imposing fresh restrictions on these employees.

FTC Chair Lina M. Khan commented, "Non-compete clauses not only suppress wages but also stifle innovation and deprive the American economy of dynamism, including from over 8,500 new startups that could emerge annually once such restrictions are removed."

The FTC's new rule aims to empower workers to seek new employment opportunities, launch businesses, or introduce innovative ideas to the market without constraints. According to the FTC's estimates, the abolishment of non-compete agreements is expected to increase new business creation by 2.7% annually, potentially leading to the formation of an additional 8,500 companies each year.

The FTC initially proposed the ban on non-compete agreements in January, 2023, which faced opposition from the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and some Congressional members. Despite this, the FTC received significant public support for the proposal, with over 26,000 comments submitted, 25,000 of which favored the ban.

CBC to Air Carolina Panthers Games on WRAL/Raleigh


Carolina Panthers
Carolina Panthers

The Carolina Panthers and Capitol Broadcasting Company (CBC) have expanded their partnership to air live Panthers games in the Triangle region on WRAL-FM (Mix 101.5) in Raleigh, beginning this fall. This contract extension through 2027 will make play-by-play broadcasts for all pre-season, regular season and post-season games, as well as the weekly Panther Talk and daily Panthers Update programs, available to listeners.

"We are extremely pleased to augment an exceptional multi-media broadcasting partnership between the Panthers and Capitol Broadcasting," said Carolina Panthers Affiliate Manager Eric Fiddleman. "The addition of one of the largest radio signals in North Carolina in Mix 101.5, coupled with the simulcast on The Buzz and a continued presence on 99.9 The Fan, will provide ample listening opportunities for fans of the Panthers/NFL in the Triangle and well beyond. CBC's radio and television stations are much appreciated partners."

"Mix 101.5 is focused on our local community," said CBC Radio VP/GM Brian Grube. "That commitment is evident from our local partnerships and fundraisers to our talented team of local on-air hosts. We know from the engagement we see with all our stations that local sports are extremely important to our passionate audiences. We are excited to make Carolina Panthers games available to Triangle fans on CBC's strongest radio station."

Play-by-play for Panthers games will be carried on Mix 101.5 and simulcast on Buzz Sports Radio (620 AM, 104.5 FM, 99.9 HD2). CBC will continue its local, dedicated coverage and analysis of the Carolina Panthers on WCMC-FM (99.9 The Fan) and Buzz Sports Radio along with audio streaming and podcasts.

Anderson to Receive 2024 Loren Tobia Leadership Award


Kristie Anderson
Kristie Anderson

The Radio Television Digital News Association has announced Kristie Anderson, Assistant News Director at WXIA in Atlanta, has been selected as the 2024 recipient of RTDNA's Loren Tobia Leadership Award. The award is given annually to a journalist who exemplifies true leadership within their company or organization during a given year. Anderson will be recognized first at RTDNA24 in Milwaukee from June 12-14.

In 2023, Anderson stepped up as interim News Director at WXIA after the newsroom went nearly six months without a ND. During that time, the station's General Manager also departed. Despite the uncertainty, Anderson led the newsroom through some challenging stories -- the indictment of a former president in Atlanta, the death of a former first lady and severe weather coverage.

"I had the privilege to work alongside Loren Tobia for many years, and I cannot overstate how special it is to receive a leadership award bearing his name," said RTDNA President and CEO Dan Shelley. "Kristie's work at WXIA is well-deserving of this tremendous honor."

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Quick Snaps
KMJ-FM/Fresno: News Talk 580/105.9 KMJ in Fresno, CA, was honored at Fresno City Hall last week as Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer officially declared today, April 18 as

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