Jacobs Media’s TechSurvey9: News/Talk Breakout.

• They are big users of email – especially for building a relationship with their favorite news/talk station.  They are less likely to connect with the station via Facebook or Twitter.
• 74% report their primary reason for listening to AM/FM radio is for news, traffic and weather information and 42% cited the need to find out what’s going on locally – much higher than users of other radio formats.
• News/talk users are #2 in owning a car with a digital dashboard (compared to other format fans) with 13% reporting they own one.
• Social media use for news/talk fans indicates they are far more likely to be on LinkedIn – likely due to the “professional” status of many listeners.  They are least likely of all format fans to “like” a Facebook page and are not especially frequent users of Twitter compared to other format P1s (although use of Twitter increased 17% over the 2012 survey).
• 65% of news/talk listeners downloaded digital radio apps and, compared to users of other radio formats, were more likely to download your station’s app and the TuneIn app.
• Compared to the same study period one year ago, news/talk fans’ use of internet radio rose 15%; saw a 36% increase in the use of tablet devices; and a 19% increase in the use of the digital dashboard.

Paul Finebaum to Join ESPN August 1.  The formerly Birmingham, Alabama-based sports journalist and talk show host will change his home base to Charlotte for his new gig with ESPN. Paul Finebaum, who had a tumultuous last two years with Cumulus Media at WJOX in Birmingham, will not be moving to SummitMedia’s crosstown WZNN “97.3 The Zone” as many industry watchers had suspected.  Instead, Finebaum will take his radio program to ESPN where it will air on ESPN Audio and the ESPN-owned SEC Network, destined to debut in August of 2014.  According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, Finebaum will also make 100 appearances on ESPN’s cable TV channels.  After entering into a couple of legal battles with former long-time employer Cumulus Media over the course of several years, Finebaum agreed to work out his contract and exit radio in order to sit out his non-compete and start fresh somewhere else.  He left WJOX in January of this year.

Clear Channel Announces Bid to Push Back Debt with Bond Exchange.  Clear Channel Communications announces it is seeking to push off some debt until 2021 via a $2.1 billion bond exchange.  The company is offering to swap $796.3 million of 10.75% notes due in 2016 and $1.28 billion of 11% payment-in-kind notes due in 2016 for the new debt that would come up in 2021.  The notes will pay 12% in cash and 2% through the issuance of payment-in-kind notes.   Bloomberg’s Mary Childs reports, “Free cash flow at the San Antonio-based broadcaster hasn’t exceeded $340.9 million in any year since its 2008 buyout by Bain Capital Partners LLC and Thomas H. Lee Partners LP.  Credit-default swaps tied to the bonds of the company, which owes about $20.8 billion total, are at about the lowest in two years, a sign investors are open to refinancing, Bloomberg data show.”

Cox Enterprises Announces $1 Million Donation to Oklahoma Tornado Relief.  The parent company of Cox Media Group – Cox Enterprises – announces that in partnership with the James L. Cox Foundation it is donating $1 million in support of relief and recovery efforts.  “Cox Enterprises is committed to supporting the victims of this terrible storm,” says Jim Kennedy, chairman of Cox Enterprises. “As a company that operates multiple businesses in Oklahoma, we are committed to helping our employees and the communities we serve recover from this disaster. In providing this assistance, we also encourage others to support the local relief and recovery efforts.”  Cox Enterprises operates multiple companies in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, including: Cox Communications, Total Resource Auctions – Oklahoma City, Total Resource Auctions – Tulsa, news/talk KRMG, Fox23, My41, country KWEN, Tulsa “K95,” hot AC KRAV, Tulsa “Mix 96” and rock KJSR, Tulsa “Rock 103.”  “In this difficult time of recovery and rebuilding, our hearts go out to the families affected by the tornadoes,” states Percy Kirk, senior vice president and general manager, Cox Communications Oklahoma. “This gift is a symbol of our commitment to our community and it is our hope that it will provide comfort and relief to many.”  In addition to the cash donation and in-kind public service announcements, Cox’s local media properties in Tulsa are hosting a series of community fundraisers.

CBS Radio’s KDKA-FM, Pittsburgh Hosts Remote Auditions for Sports Talk Host.  CBS Radio Pittsburgh sports talk outlet “Sports Radio 93.7 The Fan” is hosting open auditions for a weekend sports talk show on the station.  The open auditions rounds begin this weekend and will take place at five different locations over the next four weeks.  The company states, “Participants will be judged by station personnel on their ability to rant on a random sports topic.  Ten entrants from the open auditions will be selected to move on to the semifinal round to be held at the Tilted Kilt in the North Shore on Monday, June 24.  From there, the top four entrants will move on to the Finals at Sidelines Bar and Grill in Sewickley to be judged during a live broadcast with Andrew Fillipponi on KDKA-FM on Thursday, June 27 from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.  Program director Ryan Maguire says, “We’re looking for the next great Pittsburgh sports talk show host – someone who can grow into a superstar.  We’re eager to see which member of this passionate fan base can take advantage of this very rare opportunity.”

‘Frontlines of Freedom’ Returns to WOOD, Grand Rapids for Flagship Station.  The Talk Media Network-syndicated program dedicated to all things military and hosted by retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Denny Gillem returns to its original flagship station WOOD, Grand Rapids.  Talk Media Network’s Josh Leng reports that the weekend “Frontlines of Freedom” program will air live from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on WOOD beginning June 1.  Gillem says of the move, “Six years ago my co-founder and I created ‘Frontlines of Freedom’ on WOOD radio.  June 1 is the show’s six-year anniversary.  It’s a great honor to be returning to our roots at the finest station in West Michigan.”  The program began in 2006 as a special Memorial Day show called, “A Colonel’s Salute to Veterans” that won a Michigan Broadcasters Association award.  One year later the weekly program was founded at WOOD.  Phil Tower, director of news & content programming at Clear Channel’s WOOD, states, “Few persons are held in such high regard as the men and women of our military, so it’s a natural fit to welcome ‘Frontlines of Freedom’ back to our WOOD radio lineup.”

Tony Stiles to Join The Next News Network.  Talk radio personality Tony Stiles, host of his eponymous program heard Saturdays on NRG Media’s KOIL, Omaha “The Mighty 1290,” announces he’s accepted the news anchor position at Chicago-based internet news network The Next News Network.  Stiles states, “I am honored that after only seven months on the air in Omaha, that my show, ideas and personality has resonated nationally through a loyal audience by word-of-mouth, radio and internet access.  This coming Friday night I will continue my role of frequent anchor until I assume the daily desk in early summer.”  The Next News Network founder Gary Franchi says, “As the founder of Next News Network, I became aware of Tony’s ability to attract an audience as I followed his rapid growth and heard his show.  Tony is a perfect fit for our 24/7 internet newscast which, like Tony, is the first of its kind.”

CBS News Reporter Tells WPHT, Philadelphia’s Chris Stigall Her Work and Personal Computers Compromised.  In a story that has since gone viral after being picked up by numerous consumer news outlets, with the allegations the DOJ has been investigating AP and Fox News reporters as the backdrop, CBS News investigative reporter Sharyl Attkisson told WPHT, Philadelphia AM drive host Chris Stigall her work and personal computers are being analyzed as part of an investigation.  Attkisson said she could not point the finger at the DOJ but the speculation is that it’s a possibility.  Attkisson has been reporting on the Benghazi attacks story.

Sports USA Announces College Football Schedule.  Sports USA unveils its 2013 schedule of college football contests saying it “consists of 18 games featuring the best teams in college football.  Defending national champion Alabama, unbeaten Ohio State, Texas A&M, (with Heisman Trophy winning QB Johnny Manziel) Michigan, Florida, and LSU will be among the teams featured this year.”  Sports USA president Bob Moore says, “We are pleased to provide these incredible matchups to our nearly 400 affiliates nationwide.  Additionally, we are providing a sideline reporter for each game.”  The season kicks off with USC at Hawaii on August 29 and wraps up with the Independence Bowl on December 31.  Other key match-ups include Florida at LSU on October 12, Michigan versus Michigan State on November 2 and Alabama at Auburn on November 30.

Odds & Sods.  “America Tonight” nationally syndicated talk show host Kate Delaney is doing some fill-in work this weekend for NBC Sports Radio Network.  Delaney, who earlier in her career worked at WFAN, New York, will sit in from 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm ET on May 26 and from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm on May 27…..CBS Radio’s KNX, Los Angeles continues its “KNX on Your Corner” remote broadcast series on June 7 as it takes a comprehensive look at the Orange County city of Fullerton.  During the live broadcast from 5:00 am to 7:00 pm, community leaders including Mayor Bruce Whitaker, council members, Chief of Police Dan Hughes and other special guests will be interviewed.  Additionally, a special series by KNX investigative reporter Charles Feldman will look at the double-barreled impact on the city of the “Great Recession” and the high-profile fatal beating of a homeless man, Kelly Thomas, by members of the Fullerton Police Department nearly two years ago.

ESPN to Begin Mega-Layoffs.  At this point the company’s only public statement has been, “We are implementing changes across the company to enhance our continued growth while smartly managing costs.  While difficult, we are confident that it will make us more competitive, innovative and productive.”  It’s unclear how many ESPN Audio staffers will be affected but the company, which employs about 4,000 in the United States and another 3,000 in other parts of the world, could be in the hundreds according to some reports.  ESPN is a huge source of revenue for principle parent Disney (20% is owned by Hearst) but some industry watchers speculate that ESPN’s increasing costs in acquiring precious play-by-play contracts – especially considering new entrants into the field including CBS Sports Network and Fox Sports 1 – is forcing it to be more cost-conscious.

IRS Protest Led by WIND, Chicago’s Joe Walsh.  Former Illinois Congressman Joe Walsh is pictured here (with megaphone) on the street outside the Dearborn Street offices of the Internal Revenue Service in Chicago protesting the agency’s targeting of conservative and religious groups.  The rally was organized and led by Walsh, who hosts his own evening talk show on Salem Communications’ WIND, Chicago, “AM 560 The Answer.”  Walsh states, “It’s time to send a message that our First Amendment rights will not be denied by an out-of-control administration.”  Dozens of protesters joined Walsh during the lunchtime gathering.

IRS Targets Conservatives, DOJ Fox News Investigation, Oklahoma Tornado Aftermath, Benghazi Attacks Case, and Anthony Weiner to Run for NYC Mayor Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/21).  The IRS’ targeting of conservative groups; the investigation by the Department of Justice into Fox News Channel reporters; the aftermath of the deadly Oklahoma tornado; the ongoing scrutiny of the Benghazi attack and disgraced former NY Congressman Anthony Weiner’s bid for mayor of New York were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.

There is nothing harder than finding effective digital sellers. So hard, it is logical to conclude that there aren’t any great digital advertising sellers. The job listings are packed with ads begging, “Sharks wanted.” “Are you a shark?” “Can you bring business with you?” “Closers only.”

The account executive turnover at major digital firms is very high. Start-ups raise funds to salary qualified, experienced shark-sellers but their hires sell—nothing. Not a little, but nothing. In talking with dozens of start-up CEO’s they share the same story:

“I hired a seller with a killer resumé and they sold, nothing. All the billing we have was sold by me and my co-founder.”

CEOs try new ad-wording (sharks), or outsource freelance sales teams only to discover those are often scams.

After studying this for years, I believe that professional sellers are less than effective at selling digital advertising because BUYERS HAVE NO IDEA HOW TO BUY DIGITAL ADVERTISING.  MBAs call this an “inefficient marketplace.”

Five Reasons Digital Sellers Can’t Sell Online Advertising

1. Sellers are hired based on their robust resumes in sales. They have effectively sold TV, radio, print, outdoor. Digital is a new medium with a new language and buying patterns. Prior experience, therefore, is not applicable. It may be a hindrance.

2. Buyers have no rules for digital engagement.  Go to Mindshare, Mediavest, Starcom, Starbright, FirststarIseetonight.net.uk, or any major buying agency and they have well tested, proven methods for buying proven media. But they have no algorithms or measured demands for free tickets to close a digital buy.

That’s why they always ask, “How do we measure the ROI?”  Fact is, every buyer has their own ROI standards but these standards have not been established for new media. It is not the seller’s job to outline the ROI.

3. There is no standard for online video ROI.  Do you measure the first click? The first five seconds? Or does a person have to watch the whole video for it to count?

4. No training. Because it’s a new medium, there is no standard for training digital sales people. Larger digital enterprises have in-house training programs but their success rate is about the same as companies that have no formal training.  This is because the parameters for training are rooted in traditional media examples.

5. The timeline for success is different. The old transactional timelines used for radio, TV, print do not apply to digital. It takes at least 10 times longer to close a digital sale than it does traditional media. Most of the time is not spent on selling, it’s spent on finding the buyer. “New Media” is dumped into different silos depending on the company. While many companies and agencies lie and say, “Our entire company is the digital department,” the reality is that the true digital buyer is either the boss or the just hired kid.

It’s not just you. The frustration of finding and managing digital sales is both profound and largely unspoken. Now you are free to speak.

Walter Sabo is the Chairman of Sabo Media.   He can be reached at Walter@sabomedia.com. Meet Walter Sabo at TALKERS 2013 New York on Thursday June 6.

Radio Goes into Emergency Mode in Oklahoma City.

KNTH, Houston’s Sam Malone Goes Multi-Platform.  Morning drive host Sam Malone, heard daily on Salem Communication’s news/talk KNTH, Houston “AM 1070 The Answer,” is now broadcasting his program in multi-media fashion, making it available to fans in a video format.  Malone partnered with Houston-based tech company Phonoscope to develop the web-based video component.  As you can see in the photo here, Malone’s set is able to deliver some of the aspects of a television broadcast that news/talk audiences can use: a news crawl, the ability to identify guests/callers via chyron, a backdrop for photos/video, and other promotional messages.  For example, today (5/21) he’s able to constantly provide the toll-free number to donate to victims of the Oklahoma tornado.  From a sales perspective, the format obviously allows for still photos and video in commercial spots.

Play Ball: Fun with Flagships.  Baseball season is well underway and the recent April 2013 PPM data from Arbitron gives TALKERS managing editor and West Coast bureau chief Mike Kinosian the opportunity to delve into the numbers and get a glimpse of where the flagship stations for most of the Major League Baseball teams stand at this point.  As Kinosian notes, baseball is a very important programming element for many stations, “Sandwich a typical three-hour game between pre-game and post-game programming and a station can devote approximately 20% of its 24-hour broadcast day to being a MLB flagship.”  Baseball has a reputation of being a cume-builder and baseball fans certainly know where their team can be heard on the radio.  Check out Mike Kinosian’s analysis of the nation’s baseball radio broadcast flagship stations here.

Five Secrets to Hiring Excellent Digital Sellers.  “Made you look!” teases Sabo Media chairman and TALKERS magazine columnist Walter Sabo.  The truth is that finding effective digital media sellers is exceedingly difficult and anyone who’s tried to hire digital sales pros knows this.  Walter Sabo writes that the reason is digital buyers don’t know how to buy digital advertising.  Who’s fault is that?  According to Sabo, the rules for return on investment for a digital ad do not exist – or at least there’s no industry-wide agreement on how to measure ROI.  Read more about this vexing problem that is hampering the sale of digital ads here.

NAB Announces Ginny Morris to Receive National Radio Award.  The National Association of Broadcasters announces that Ginny Hubbard Morris, chair of Hubbard Radio LLC, will receive the National Radio Award during the Radio Show Luncheon on Friday, September 20 at 2013 Radio Show in Orlando.  NAB EVP of radio John David states, “Ginny Morris is highly regarded for her leadership and success.  It is a tremendous honor to recognize Ginny for her continuous dedication to radio and for her many accomplishments and contributions to the business.”  The NAB notes that Morris has more than 30 years of broadcast industry, business and general management experience.  As chair of Hubbard Radio LLC, Morris is responsible for managing the strategic direction for Hubbard’s 21 radio stations throughout Chicago, Washington D.C., Minneapolis/St. Paul, St. Louis and Cincinnati.  As part of the company’s growth strategy, in 2011, Morris led Hubbard’s acquisition of 17 radio stations from Bonneville International Corporation, strengthening Hubbard’s national reach and significantly expanding its industry footprint.  Morris originally joined her family’s broadcasting business in 1982 and worked her way to management positions before becoming president and general manager of KSTP-FM and KSTP-AM in 1995.

Odds & Sods.  Cumulus Media sports talk WNKT, Columbia, South Carolina “107.5 The Game” re-ups with IMG College on a new four-year deal to serve as the flagship for University of South Carolina Gamecocks play-by-play.  The package includes football, men’s and women’s basketball and baseball…..Sports USA announces the first five games of its 2013 NFL broadcast schedule.  The season will kick off with the Cincinnati Bengals at the Chicago Bears on September 8.  Sports USA president Bob Moore says, “We are thrilled with the first part of our schedule.  These matchups are second to none.  Additionally, Sports USA will be the only Sunday afternoon NFL broadcasts to feature a sideline reporter at every game in order to offer insights and quicker access to injury reports.”…..Cumulus Media’s WPRO and 99.7 FM in Providence announce a series of summer radio shows hosted by New England area tradesmen Dean Marsico and Derek Stearns – both nationally known for their TV shows “Rock Solid” and “Indoors Out” on the DIY Network and their appearances on the PBS Series “Victory Garden.”  The duo will host a monthly program, the first episode airing on Sunday, May 26.

Oklahoma Tornado, IRS Targets Conservatives, Benghazi Investigation, and DOJ Investigates Fox News Channel Journalists Among Top News/Talk Stories Yesterday (5/20). The devastation from the EF4 tornado that ripped through the Oklahoma City area yesterday; the allegations of the targeting of conservative groups by the IRS; the ongoing investigation into how the deadly attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi was handled; and the Department of Justice’s investigation of Fox News Channel journalists were some of the most-talked-about stories on news/talk radio yesterday, according to ongoing research from TALKERS.

Rhythm & Shmooze.  Las Vegas based-nationally syndicated medical talker Dr. Daliah Wachs of KDWN, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and GCN is known to occasionally get up on the stage during musical performances, grab the mic, and belt out a tune.  True to form, she is pictured here doing exactly that at her son Stone‘s recent Bar Mitzvah.  Wachs (l) is singing Def Leppard‘s “Pour Some Sugar on Me” with the band Vegas Underground.  Wonder if they do the Electric Slide.

LOS ANGELES — When considering there are more than one month’s worth of spring training contests; a grueling 162-game April through September regular-season schedule; and hopefully – the post season, no professional sport requires as demanding of a commitment for a flagship as does Major League Baseball.

Sandwich a typical three-hour game between pre-game and post-game programming and a station can devote approximately 20% of its 24-hour broadcast day to being a MLB flagship.

Most big league teams delivered their first pitches on April 1, and – rather incredibly – the season is already more than 25% completed.

Big-picture though, it is still the early innings and after sifting through April PPM results that Arbitron released last week, we get an idea which of the United States-based flagships are already in scoring position.

Before pounding through the lineups, there is ample fine print to consider as a table-setter (leadoff).

In fact, apropos of the sport, here are nine (9) noteworthy items.

• As inferred, we are dealing with the 29 United States based MLB teams; Toronto Blue Jays games are carried by CJCL, but that station’s ratings information is not included.

• Just as a reminder for non-baseball aficionados, the Texas Rangers are a Dallas team; the Arizona Diamondbacks play their home games in Phoenix; Minnesota Twins refer to a Minneapolis-St. Paul franchise; and the Colorado Rockies are a Denver team.

• CBS Radio siblings WPHT-AM and WIP-FM are dual flagships for the Philadelphia Phillies – both stations are listed below.

• Atlanta Braves games are carried by WNNX-FM and WCNN-AM, but only WNNX is noted.

• Fans can generally hear Detroit Tigers contests on WXYT-FM and WXYT-AM, however, only data for WXYT-FM is shown.

• On Sundays, Kansas City Royals games air on news-talk KMBZ (not included here).

• About one-third of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim games are carried by sports KSPN-AM (not featured in this overview).

• This is the first year that KTWN-FM is the Minnesota Twins’ flagship.

• All shares and rankings are full week, Monday-Sunday, 6am-12 Midnight (6+).

Mike Kinosian is managing editor/West Coast bureau chief of TALKERS.  He can be emailed at  Kinosian@Talkers.com or phoned at (818) 985-0244.  Meet Mike Kinosian at Talkers New York 2013 on Thursday June 6.

LONDON — Working in London, England, as an American talk show host has its challenges.  For instance, for the first two-three years of my six year stint as a host on commercial national talk station, TalkSPORT, (Talk Radio UK) doing a political/news-based show – it was the audience’s view that I was not allowed an opinion at all, either as a host and especially as a “Yank.”

For years on the BBC – where there is “speech radio” (drama, news, news analysis – and done very well) there had been very little interactive talk, and even then the host – though he would occasionally explore or challenge a point – was mostly a moderator not an instigator or opinion former.  Talk shows on the BBC, now more opinionated than they used to be, are very much in the mould of “on the one hand there is …. But on the other hand…. what do you think?”  British radio – due to over-regulation, a fairness doctrine, dominant licence funded BBC, a lack of competition, and a “scared-of-one’s-own-shadow” attitude to regulators – will never have a thriving talk radio market as in the US.  There is not the space for talent to truly develop in talk commercially.

It took the pirate stations of the sixties – Radio Caroline, Swinging Radio London — and Laser 558, in the eighties to shake up music radio, create competition and loosen the stranglehold of over-regulation.  It was this over-regulated radio, as luck would have it, that gave me my first opportunity to come to Britain in 1984 as part of Laser 558, an offshore Pirate radio station situated on an old cattle tender some 16 miles off the coast of London in the Thames estuary (see Richard Curtis’s film, “Pirate Radio” – I’m told I was the inspiration for a scene in the film).  On shore, radio was over-regulated with union mandated needle time­ rules limiting the amount of recorded music played.  It would take at least two union members to put a record on the air – one from the musicians union to cue the disc and another from the electricians union to hit the start button – this in addition to the studio engineer, producer and talent.  There were only two music radio stations in London, BBC Radio One and commercial station, Capital Radio.  Laser 558 with a constant diet of hits – “Never more than a minute away from music” – and the need for just one person, the jock, generally sans a shower due to water restrictions, to cue and get the records on air, was an instant hit with a listenership of around 12 million in the South East of England.  Five or six of us, with about 15 “marine crew” and an aerial system constantly blown down during Force Nine gales, food shortages, seasickness, and the fear that the music rotation card box would spill to the floor with the next high wave.  Yet, shut off from the world we were the most creative and most listened-to station in London.  We were the story; the boat that rocked.  We changed the face of British radio.

I will never forget a government minister at the time calling for Laser to be shut down explaining that “It [was] the government’s job to decide what people should listen to.”

I was also the morning drive jock on Atlantic 252, a joint venture between Irish state broadcaster RTE and Radio Luxembourg.  We broadcast on Long Wave – further down the AM spectrum—to the UK from a former doctor’s office next to the cattle auction in the rural town of Trim, Co. Meath, thirty miles north of Dublin.  We succeeded from that rural location to be hip, UK relevant and all before the luxuries of the internet.  Atlantic 252 brought American presentation techniques and tight song rotations to British radio.

But I do not see a similar challenge to talk radio.

A presenter – to use the term here – and an American at that, has no right to tell Brits how to run their country, especially when it comes to sacred cows such as the National Health Service (NHS) – the universal state healthcare system that Obama dreams about.  For Brits, the NHS is more blindly worshipped than Kim Jong Un in North Korea.  Watching the “celebration” of the NHS during the Opening Ceremony of the London Games last summer I got a sense of a country trying to convince themselves, not others, of just how good they wish they had it.

From afar, I have also, disturbingly, been able to see America’s lurch (either by her own will or the design of her leaders) down the path to the welfare state.  Instead of the can do spirit found in America, the welfare state here is horribly inefficient and intrusive.  It has created a culture of state dependence in place of personal independence; class warfare and division instead of e pluribus unum; and a sense of entitlement replacing one of self responsibility.

In that respect, Britain’s welfare state is years and years advanced than we across the pond.

There is a market for talk radio, especially in finding new night time audiences.   I proved that on Laser 558 – a late night music show more akin to what Stern and Brandmier were doing  in the morning—and again from 2002-2003 in Cork, Ireland.  My friend, Henry Owens, had launched a music station, RedFM, targeting 18-35s.  Along with consultant Tommy Hadges, we created a night time talk show (to comply with speech regulations) “Cork Talks Back” that was not only number one at night, number one on our station’s own schedule, but had created new night time listenership.  By far, it was one of the most interesting jobs I have ever had.   Walking into and conquering a very discerning and parochial foreign market, Cork is a proud town that doesn’t take to strangers.  In Ireland, Cork is known as The People’s Republic of Cork.  They speak their own language – no not Irish (Gaeilge) but a lexicon of English slang including words like Langer (jerk), bure (girl), feen (guy).  And try pronouncing this town: Gurranabraher (grawn-a-bra-her).   Giving Corkonians a nightly forum, and being an American exposing and satirising the foibles of Irish culture earned me high ratings, a high personal profile, and nomination as Irish speech broadcaster of the year.

The secret for me has been to discover and learn everything possible about a market, to try and know more than the locals, and to be truthful in my beliefs.  Here in the UK that’s not always been easy.  I couldn’t have found three harder stances to hold – I call them my holy trinity – I am American, Republican and a defender of George W. Bush along with the war or terror and Gitmo; I am Jewish and a steadfast defender of Israel and her policies; and probably worst of all, I am in favour of that age old British pastime of FOXHUNTING!  I used to own a horse and learned to ride in Ireland.

In liberal statist societies such as the UK “balance” and “equality” must be found everywhere; and this is the scourge freedom of expression and the free marketplace of ideas.  Ideas are not promoted on their own merit or audience acceptance.  Minority/victim group opinion is propped up through fear of offence; populist non-elitist opinion is muffled and lefty group received wisdoms are rarely challenged.  Forced balance creates  anything but balance; many BBC programmes –and especially on the Iranian owned propaganda network, Press TV, on which I debate fascists and anti-Semites on a regular basis, balance a mainstream view with that of a radical voice, giving each an equal bearing and disproportional credence to the radical view.

In the UK the notion of “offence” calls of “bigot” and reliance on victim group status is constantly used to successfully shut down any talk host, or guest, on a controversial topic such as immigration reform or gay marriage.  In 2005 broadcaster Lynnette Burrows was actually visited by the police after a conversation on BBC Radio Five Live on the new Civil Partnership law.  As the Daily Telegraph reported at the time:  “During the programme, she said she did not believe that homosexuals should be allowed to adopt.  She added that placing boys with two homosexuals for adoption was as obvious a risk as placing a girl with two heterosexual men who offered themselves as parents. “It is a risk,” she said. “You would not give a small girl to two men.”  A member of the public complained to the police and an officer contacted Mrs Burrows the following day to say a ‘homophobic incident’ had been reported against her.”

Political “campaigning” or taking sides by a host, even on a commercial station, is extremely limited.  Sean Hannity and Rush Limbaugh would not be allowed on UK radio for long, right wingers are treated like pariahs.  Glenn Beck’s campaigns for Israel would get him in trouble with the regulator OFCOM – while at Talk Radio UK I had been spoken to on more than one occasion for being too outspoken on Israel.  As for Michael Savage, he wouldn’t even get into the country!  That’s no joke; in 2009 Savage was barred from the UK for allegedly “seeking to provoke others to serious criminal acts and fostering hatred”.  The banned list of 22 was populated with Muslim extremists rightfully banned for incitement…. and Savage, obviously added to “balance” the list.

Where Hannity and Rush look forward to a presidential election to advance their ideology and the beliefs of their listeners, an election here it is a different story.  “The Representation of the People’s Act,” an act of Parliament and therefore statutory law, prevents broadcasters from holding opinions on the election, endorsing candidates, parties or influencing the vote; producers with stopwatches time the airtime given to each party.  While hosting my talk radio show, the election was ignored, it was less hassle and far easier to talk about anything but politics.

By the way, air personalities here are not allowed to do live reads or personal endorsement ads where the bulk of your money is made in the States.

Being an American working in the British system does have its reward.  It has made me a de facto American representative and spokesman.  It has brought me work as a commentator on British and international radio and television including BBC Television and Radio, the BBC World Service and BBC World TV; Sky News, CNN and al Jazeera where I’ve been a regular guest with Sir David Frost.  I’ve debated and represented American thought on BBC Radio Four’s most prestigious programs including Today, Any Questions and the Moral Maze.  I’ve debated Bianca Jagger on the death penalty (with David Frost), interviewed the Queen’s daughter, Princess Anne, and explained American politics to George Galloway the left wing anti-war MP who famously feted Saddam Hussein.

I’ve been the go to man on everything from American Exceptionalism, the US Constitution and Bill of Rights, separation of powers, the Electoral College, why we spend so much on presidential campaigns; it’s all in a day’s work.  Defending our gun laws and trying to explain what the Special Relationship actually entails is of great interest here.  Hosting talk shows as a conservative American in the days after 9/11 and during the Bush Administration, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq; Guantanamo and the war on terror, made me an instant lightening rod.  Callers weren’t just disagreeing with me, but my country and all she stands for.  One regular caller, Tony from Enfield, or “Cuban Tony” as he was known, would constantly call to berate me as to the “horrid conditions” in America and how it was not as good as in Cuba.  He could never give me the names of anyone swimming from Florida to Cuba instead of the other way around.

Who could ask for better and more interesting career than I’ve had as a London-based international talker, commentator and radio jock?   Working in a foreign market – a world city like London- has given me perspective.  I have been able to watch the country of my birth, one I intimately know, from afar and from a British viewpoint.

I also have a better perspective of international events.  I’ve developed a greater appreciation for the First Amendment.  I’m able to comment on life in the UK with the intimate knowledge of living here for thirty years but approaching it with the unbiased and unvarnished view of a foreigner; an American.  It is a marvellous perspective not afforded to many others.

Charlie Wolf is available as a “go to” source for American broadcasters in need of a UK or European perspective on breaking issues.  He can be emailed at Charlie@itsthewolf.net.  Visit www.itsthewolf.net for more information.  Meet Charlie Wolf at Talkers New York 2013 on Thursday, June 6. 

]]> http://www.talkers.com/2013/05/20/talking-in-the-uk-perspectives-from-an-american-talk-show-host-working-in-london/feed/ 0 http://www.talkers.com/2013/05/20/talking-in-the-uk-perspectives-from-an-american-talk-show-host-working-in-london/ http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/talkers/~3/lp-yFCbvcuY/ http://www.talkers.com/2013/05/20/an-open-letter-of-advice-to-rush-limbaugh/#comments Mon, 20 May 2013 11:54:23 +0000 TALKERS http://www.talkers.com/?p=19660 By Dr. John Tantillo
Branding and Marketing Group, Inc.
President

NEW YORK – A Letter To Rush Now!

Dear Rush,

We need to talk.

Why?

Because many out there hate your brand (and you) and if nothing is done proactively in the short run, failure is assured in the long run.

On radio and television they call me the “The Marketing Doctor.”   That brand became my brand because I help companies and people unlock their maximum potential through how others see them – their brands.

Rush, call this The Marketing Doctor’s intervention or not, but to be true to the brand that made you a household name in America, you have to respond to the recent Belk Department store debacle. Belk, a chain of department stores in the Southeast, had their commercials appear in the Rush Limbaugh program on your radio affiliates throughout the Carolinas.  Belk didn’t like that because of Rush’s take – real or perceived – on the issues of the day.  Rush, you need to respond because Belk is taking a slap at you and the talk radio industry that grew as a result of your success.

You know what industry insiders are saying: “Talk radio has become too polarizing, costing the industry tens of millions of dollars.”  Well this perception is becoming a reality sooner rather than later and unless something is done quickly, it just may be too late to rehabilitate a venerable brand like Rush.

All great brands go through crisis and becoming aware of this  is the first step to getting it right. Using what marketers have identified as a product’s life cycle— Introduction, Growth, Maturity and then Decline, can be helpful in the Go Brand Yourself journey!

From my perspective Rush,  you too are going through this same Product Life Cycle process that all great brands must face. It appears that you are at the Maturity phase of this cycle with the Decline not far away and even imminent if immediate actions are not taken.

But fear not, because when one uses effective marketing methodology that have worked for brands in the past, there is solid hope that all will be well with your brand, when the all alterations are implemented and embraced.

Rush, when products reach the maturity stage,  the textbook answer is to address it  by stressing product benefits and differences.  In your case, Rush this is rather easy.  You wrote the book on talk and created an entire lucrative advertising model around it. You simply are all about talk and making a profit from it.   This  is something that they cannot take away from you, or as I would like to say: “It’s your brand.”  And because this is your brand, you should work from there when commencing your brand over.^SM   That’s right—brand over, not that inane “make over” where consultants who don’t really know you,  advise you to become something that you are not.  No, Rush, a brand over,  is for you and will take the Rush from the inside and makes the necessary alterations to the outside.  All good! Your centering mission  should be: “To thy own brand be true,” where any and all changes about your brand come from there.

As I mentioned when products are in maturity they need to emphasize product benefits and differences. This is where you shine.  As I mentioned before,  you are all about talk,  and talk is good. Talk teaches, gets one to think and engages a dialogue whether people agree with you or not.  Once again all good.  However for whatever reason this has been lost perhaps as a result of playing it louder rather than saying it differently.  Your denigrators cite you out of context  quotations and your strong opinions as reasons for your brand stagnation.  Perhaps they are correct, but the one thing that they can’t take away is that you get listeners to listen and just maybe there is another way of generating success if one does things a little more unique.  I know you can do it.  It means changing what you have done in the past with new tactics that attract the needs of the ever-changing groups of advertisers and listeners.  This is your real opportunity to take your Brand to levels that you have never even considered.     Many personality brands have overcome, brand maturity—Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett and Neil Sedaka to name a few so that it is possible to succeed if you really want to do this.  In short Rush, all great brands make changes in order to grow. So make those necessary brand adjustments to become the brand that you are always meant to be. A bigger, stronger and better Rush!

And here Rush is what I would do if I were you in order to respond to the ever changing radio talk show environment.

First, ask present advertisers what they think about your brand and what they would like to see for them to be there for your brand in the long run.

Second, ask past advertisers what they think.

Third, ask future advertisers what they think.

Fourth, ask present listeners what they think.

Fifth, ask past listeners what they think.

Sixth, ask potential listeners what they think.

Seven, get back to your true brand—Talk.  Yes controversy has made you who you are, but you really don’t need that anymore. You are Rush who can generate controversy by simply reading the phone book.  Play off that and remember the art of conversation that  has served you well.

Eight, tone it down even though they will tell you that you are selling out.  This is poppycock.  Remember this is your brand they are playing with and you are in control.  And also consider that strong brands need  to engage in bold tactics.  Go re-brand yourself!

Nine, make talk provocative not loud.  Come on Rush. You understand what I mean.  I’m sure that even you would like to say it differently if you had to do it again.

Ten, and finally Rush simple get listeners to think by engaging in conversation that informs rather than shouts. Get them to love talk and conversation again by teaching and giving another perspective that you do so very well.

I hope this helps.   It would be a shame to lose a robust brand like yours,  simply because you didn’t keep marketing and branding in mind.

Sincerely,

John Tantillo, Ph.D.

Dr. John Tantillo, talk show host and author, is president of New York City-based Branding and Marketing Group, Inc.  He can be emailed at jtantillo@marketingdoctor.tv.

Open Letter to Rush:  Marketing and Branding Expert Warns Host to Do a “Brand Over” Before it is Too Late.

Mignon Clyburn in as Acting Chairperson of the FCC.  As announced, Julius Genachowski has exited the Federal Communications Commission where he was chairman and commissioner Mignon Clyburn will serve as acting chair until the confirmation process for the new chairman has taken place.  Nominee Tom Wheeler’s confirmation has been delayed until later in June.  Last week the Commerce Committee announced the confirmation hearings would not take place this week.

Time to Clean Up Digital Space for Summer.  With Memorial Day weekend about to roll around, digital radio consultant and TALKERS columnist Chris Miller suggests this is a good time to start making big moves in small chunks and get your website and social media initiatives up to speed with a little upgrading.  In a new column posted today (5/20) Miller offers a punch list of items you can work on each week between now and Labor Day to get your website and social media fixed up, and ready to totally support your on-air product this fall!  They include writing down your goals, taking something OFF your website, picking fonts and colors, freshening your Facebook page cover photo, checking your tabs for relevance, cutting back on posts by setting and raising your standards, focusing Twitter on something specific, and properly prioritizing Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest by de-emphasizing them as social sites and using them more for storage and as content channels.  To read Chris Miller’s entire article, click here.

Internationally Known American Broadcaster Living and Working in London Shares his Perspective on the Radio Business from the Other Side of the Pond.  They might be speaking English, but the comparisons break down quickly after that.  American radio broadcaster Charlie Wolf has been living and working in the UK for years, holding on-air positions at a number of leading British media outlets from the legendary “pirate radio” to the BBC.  During these years, he has become somewhat of an in-house UK “go-to” guy explaining, debating and in most cases defending the American position on issues as seen from the English point of view.  In an exclusive commentary posted today (5/20) in TALKERS, Wolf shares his observations and insights about how very different talk radio is in the UK than it is in the US.  To read his entire provocative piece, click here.

‘America’s Morning News’ Host John McCaslin Addresses Small Business Finance Conference.  America’s Radio News Network executive vice president John McCaslin (holding mic) is pictured here at the 2013 NADCO “Game Change” conference held over the weekend.  The conference was for companies certified by the Small Business Administration to provide loans for small businesses, which create two-thirds of the nation’s new jobs.  McCaslin, who also hosts the nationally syndicated “America’s Morning News” program, told the packed house at San Diego’s Hotel Del Coronado where he thinks the economy — and the unrelated overnight trio of scandals rocking President Obama — are headed in the coming months.  The veteran newsman was among the “Inside Washington” speakers.  Besides much-needed job creation, the four-day conference — sponsored by Bank of America/Merrill Lynch, Credit Suisse, and Wells Fargo — centered on the new VetLoan Advantage Program for members of the U.S. military returning home from overseas deployment.

Worlds Collide on Opie & Anthony’s SiriusXM Show.  SiriusXM’s Opie & Anthony are known for broadcasting the unusual but this collage of guests from disparate worlds really takes the cake.  Picture here are (from l-r) comic Colin Quinn, celebrity chef Guy Fieri, SiriusXM host Anthony Cumia, country music superstar Trace Adkins, SiriusXM host Opie Hughes, and comic Tom Papa.  The collision happened on the O&A show last week as the four guests all happened to be scheduled for the same day and appeared on the program at the same time.

Radio Advertising Bureau Unveils New ‘State-of-the-Art’ Website.  The RAB proudly announces the debut of the new www.RAB.com .  Calling it an “updated, fresh design,” the RAB says the new site was created “with today’s mobile salesperson in mind.”  The site uses a responsive design that automatically reacts to a visitor’s screen size, so RAB members can search for vital sales intelligence, consumer insights and sales material support no matter if they’re on their desktop, in the office, or using any mobile device including tablets and smart phones.  The section for radio managers, account executives and associate members is navigated through the 7 Steps to Selling Success, a set of principles reinforced through RAB Professional Development training and certification courses.  It features sections devoted to prospecting, appointments, research, creative, and proposals and presentations.  Managers will also find their own dedicated section with important links to RAB Professional Development, management articles, and sales tips.  Radio account executives will find a number of new and exciting features including “Trending Now on RAB.com.”  Based on real-time traffic across the new RAB.com, account executives will see what topics, articles, reports, etc. are growing in popularity.  Favorite RAB services such as Articles on Demand, Instant Backgrounds, prospecting reports, consumer profiles, commercial scripts, mp3 commercial audio and RAB’s co-op library are all available on the site with easy-to-find functionality.  RAB president and CEO Erica Farber says, “The RAB prides itself on delivering the most current products, information and resources to our members.  Redesigning this site with total mobile capabilities was a ‘must have.’  In order to remain competitive, our members need to access current services and data while on the go.”

CBS Radio Philadelphia’s Marc Rayfield to Be Inducted into Philadelphia Jewish Sports Hall of Fame.   CBS Radio proudly announces that Philadelphia SVP and market manager Marc Rayfield is being inducted into the Philadelphia Jewish Sports Hall of Fame in a special ceremony on Monday, May 20.  Rayfield will be inducted along with basketball coach Larry Brown and seven other talented honorees.  The Philadelphia Jewish Sports Hall of Fame and Adolph and Rose Levis Museum (PJSHOF) is celebrating its 16th anniversary at a reception to today at 5:30 pm.  Rayfield is the vice president of WIP SportsRadio, one of the nation’s most respected all sports stations.  WIP is known for innovation in business such as the first studio naming rights partnership in the United States with Tastykake.  WIP is home to Angelo Cataldi and the morning team.  The station also annually hosts one of the largest radio promotions in the country, Wing Bowl, prior to the Super Bowl in front of a sold-out crowd at the Wells Fargo Center.  Rayfield  is currently responsible for live broadcasts of the Phillies, Eagles and Philadelphia Union as well as Temple, St. Joe’s and Villanova athletics.

SHAKER HEIGHTS — Even though it’s still spring, Memorial Day weekend is about to roll around.  For a lot of us, that can feel like the start of summer.  So I’m giving you the summer to do a little upgrading!  Here’s a punch list of items you can work on each week between now and Labor Day to get your website and social media fixed up, and ready to totally support your on-air product this fall!

Write Down Your Goals

Your performance is being judged on some set of numbers.  How can your digital platforms contribute to those numbers?  Think about those goals, write them down, and share them with your co-workers.  Whether it’s content on your site, your social media, email, texting, whatever … bring it into focus.

Take Something Off Your Website

Almost every radio station in America has something on the front page of their website that is sucking up too much oxygen.  Get with your webmaster to check your web stats.  What’s on your front page that almost no one visits, and has nothing to do with your station?  Get rid of it.  Doing so will help your fans find the stuff they’re coming to you for!

Pick Fonts and Colors

I worked once with a PD who also had graphic design experience, and he proved this point to me.  You can do a lot to keep people on your site if you make all the fonts consistent, and use a limited, pleasing range of colors.  You may feel your site needs to be completely reorganized … but start with this for much quicker improvement.

Freshen Your Cover Photo

How long have you had the same cover photo on your station’s Facebook page?  I like to change these out at least once a month, if not more often.  If you don’t have the person-power to create Facebook cover photos that promote what you’re doing on the radio, come up with a few different generic ones you can rotate.

Check Your Tabs

After people look at your brand’s cover photo, what they look at next is your tabs.  What sort of photos or graphics do they see there?  Those are tiny spaces that get a lot of eyeball-time, so make them pertinent to what you are all about.

Cut Back on Posts, Set Standards

If your station is posting half-a-dozen or more times each day, cut back.  Be pickier about what you post.  Many successful brands post once, twice or three times a day.  They make sure that each post, however, is firing on all cylinders.  Show your fans content that relates to your brand, post eye-catching photos, and respond to what they say to you!

Focus Twitter on Something   

If you have a Facebook page that covers in general what your station does, don’t just duplicate that with a Twitter feed.  Think about some particular information your fans might want.  This might be contest times … talk show topics … news, weather, sports … when it’s time to vote on what gets played next … and so on.  Make your Twitter feed more valuable by dedicating it to a narrow purpose.  This might also be just instant, regular responses to listener’s questions and comments.  Finally … you don’t just have to have one Twitter feed.

Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest

It’s easy to get caught up in a new, buzz-worthy digital platform.  Usually, that doesn’t help you; it’s a focus-buster that detracts you from what’s already working.  However, those secondary social media sites like Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, and others can be good places to store photos, videos and other content that you promote on Facebook or Twitter.  De-emphasize these as social sites, and use them instead as content channels.

Chris Miller, owner of Chris Miller Digital, is a leading radio consultant specializing in research-based strategic planning and smart use of digital media. He can be phoned at 216-236-3955 or e-mailed at chris@chrismillerdigital.com.

Talk Radio Day at the United Nations Set for Friday, June 7.

RAB: Radio Flat at $3.5 Billion in Q1.  The Radio Advertising Bureau releases data indicating that the first quarter of 2013 remained flat “aided by an uptick in Spot in March after a sluggish start to the year.  Both Digital and Off-Air performed well throughout the quarter and were up 9% and 5% respectively.”  The report breaks out data on advertising categories.  A synopsis shows “spot spending by communication/cellular advertisers soared by over 1/3 (36%) for this quarter, propelling the category to #1 for the period.  Also up – in rank order based on spending – were financial services (+13%), department/discount stores & shopping centers (+58%), and home furnishings/floor coverings (+6%).  While dollar volume was virtually flat for television/networks/cable providers (-3%) and restaurants (-2%), these were solid contributors to radio’s bottom line in the #2 and #4 spots; automotive declined 20% and slipped to the #3 rank.”  RAB president and CEO Erica Farber states, “Major increases in radio advertising by communications/cellular and financial services went a long way to offset a drop in automotive spending.  Additionally, spending is up in the department/discount stores category – reflecting increased confidence among retailers who have experienced radio’s ability to drive traffic and sales.  Radio’s digital sector revenue continues to grow as radio stations invest in and promote their digital offerings to listeners, driving increased attention by the ad buying community.”  The report features data from Miller Kaplan Arase LLP and the Q1 revenue figure does not include network radio data.  Read the entire report here.

Beasley Broadcasting Names David Wolfman WQAM, Miami LSM.  Beasley Broadcasting’s sports talk WQAM, Miami announces David Wolfman is the new local sales manager at the station.  Wolfman reports to director of sales Keriann Worley.  He comes to Beasley from his most recent position as general sales manager for Clear Channel Miami.  Prior to that, he spent several years with Interep National Radio Sales.  Worley states, “David Wolfman is a proven sales leader and he will be directly responsible for revenue growth on 560 WQAM.  His passion for sports, innovative thinking, and his knowledge of the Miami market make him a perfect fit for this dynamic position.  We are thrilled to have him join our team.”

Dave Ramsey Visits The Queen City.  Nationally syndicated talk superstar Dave Ramsey is in Cincinnati this week.  Earlier he presented to a packed house his new, intimate “Building Your Legacy Live Event” in which he talked about how to win with money, strengthen marriages and lead your children with confidence.  Speaker and author Jon Acuff joined Ramsey on stage. Ramsey joined with local affiliate WKRC to promote the event.  WKRC general sales manager Bill Mountel says, “Cincy has been starved for a taste of Dave and now they can get a ‘double dose’ of Dave Ramsey.  Cincinnati fans and 55KRC listeners are excited to have Dave in town and are already looking forward to his next visit to the Queen City!”  Today, Ramsey is hosting his “EntreLeadership 1 Day Event” at Vineyard Church.  Ramsey, along with speakers Jon Acuff and Chris Hogan, will speak about how to run a business using the same common sense principles that Ramsey practices in his own company of more than 300 employees.  Pictured here with Ramsey are: (front row) WKRC GSM Bill Mountel, Ramsey, WKRC personality Brian Thomas, (back row) WKRC PD Scott Reinhart and CC Cincinnati market president Chuck Fredrick.

Hubbard’s WXOS, St. Louis “101 ESPN” Stands Alone.  With the recent moves of KFNS and KSLG to guy talk and female-targeted programming, respectively, Hubbard Radio’s sports talk WXOS, St. Louis stands as the only full-time sports talk station in the market.  In a piece by Dan Caesar in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch chronicling the station’s four-year history as a sports outlet, general manager John Kijowski discusses where the station is now and what the state of the market is for sports talk radio.  Among the tidbits from Kijowski in the article is his belief in FM for sports talk: “In the sports genre, having a big FM signal in today’s world is vital for success.  Then the format can’t be done on the cheap, you have to invest in it.  From that respect, I feel good about what we do and I still think we have a ways to go.”  It should be noted that though WXOS is the last sports station standing, its place among the stations seeking men 25-54 is not what it was a year ago, having dropped to sixth place in the most recent Arbitron PPM data.  However, one of the most interesting points in the piece is Kijowski’s admission that it took four years in the format for the station to make a profit.  So much for the notion that sports talk radio is an automatic money press!  Read the entire piece here.

Food Nation Radio Network Signs On with Business TalkRadio Network.  In a move that will take effect June 1, the weekly food talk radio show “The Food Nation Radio Network with Elizabeth Dougherty” joins the roster of Business TalkRadio Network.  BTRN consulting operations officer Jeff Weber says, “We are all really excited that hosts Elizabeth Dougherty and Michael Serio are bringing this compelling program to a national audience.  We’re proud to be a part of this show which is informative and fun.  It’s truly a one of a kind program.”  The program is based out of Genesis Communications’ WWBA, Tampa and is described by the producers as “an adventure of good food, food-related stories and compelling interviews.”  Host Elizabeth Dougherty has an extensive background in food writing and culinary arts training.  She has written hundreds of articles on food that have appeared in many major publications.  She says of the new relationship, “We are pleased to partner with the Business TalkRadio Network as ‘Food Nation Radio’ continues to grow so that we can continue to concentrate on the cutting-edge and entertaining content we provide to our listeners each week.”

Odds & Sods.  Fred Lucas’ book about talk radio, The Right Frequency (History Publishing 2012) is soaring high on two of Amazon’s Kindle best-seller lists.  The book is #1 in the Public Affairs category as well as #1 on the digital texts chart…..XEPRS, San Diego “The Mighty 1090” morning drive co-host J.D. Hayworth is sitting in for Cumulus Media Networks personality Mike Huckabee all next week and on Memorial Day as well…..Fox Sports Radio continues its UFC coverage as the network simulcasts “UFC on FX: Belfort vs. Rockhold” on Saturday, May 18.  The event will take place at the Arena Jaragua in Jaragua, Santa Catarina, at 9:00 pm ET.  After the fights, mixed martial arts expert Larry Pepe will host a Fox Sports Radio wrap-up show with interviews and call-ins from 11:00 pm to 1:00 am ET…..CBS Radio News presents a Memorial Day Weekend special program titled “Combat Stress: Finding the Way Home” that focuses on the impact post-traumatic stress has on the lives of our military veterans.  “60 Minutes” correspondent Steve Kroft anchors and speaks with veterans and top experts.  The program features personal stories from veterans and their families, an in-depth exploration of treatment options, and stories of encouragement for those suffering with combat stress.

Second Amendment Petition Delivered to Congress.  Salem Radio Network vice president, news & talk programming Tom Tradup (right) delivers more than 125,000 signatures in support of the Second Amendment.  Accepting the signatures is Republican U.S. Representative from Texas Louie Gohmert (center) and flanked by United States Concealed Carry Association CEO Tim Schmidt (left).  The network began the petition drive in response to calls for new gun legislation in the aftermath of the Sandy Hook School shootings in Newtown, Connecticut.

Talkers Weekly Affiliate Roundup.  “The Freedom Feens” – syndicated by Genesis Communications Network – picks up new affiliates KTGO, Tioga, North Dakota and WZFG, Fargo-Moorhead…..Talk Media Network’s “Frontlines of Freedom,” a syndicated military news and talk radio show hosted by two-time purple heart recipient Colonel Denny Gillem, is added to the program schedule at Bonneville’s KTTH, Seattle.  Additionally, Colonel Gillem will also analyze military news and issues for sister station, KIRO-FM.…..“Armed American Radio” with Mark Walters is added to the program schedule on WIBQ, Terre Haute, Indiana.

IRS Targeting of Conservative Groups Tops Talkers Ten^TM for Week of May 13-17.  The IRS’ scrutinizing of conservative organizations for taxes was the most-talked-about story on news/talk radio during the week of May 13-17, putting it atop the Talkers Ten^TM.  Coming in at #2 this week was the Benghazi attack investigation.  At #3 was the AP phone records search by the Justice Department and Attorney General Eric Holder’s appearance before the House Judiciary Committee.  Following at #4 was Syria-Israel tensions.  The Talkers Ten^TM is a weekly chart of the top stories and people discussed on talk radio and is published every Friday at Talkers.com.  It is the result of ongoing research from TALKERS.  View this week’s entire chart here.

BLOCK ISLAND, RI — Forget those boring management training videos!  The acting is bad, and the situations are contrived.

Instead?  Rent these three Hollywood hits and share with your team.

Sexual Harassment:

See “Disclosure,” in which Demi Moore’s buff, ruthless executive hits on male subordinate Michael Douglas.  Author Michael Crichton (“Jurassic Park”) turned the tables by making a woman the unwanted aggressor.  And in doing so, he shows us one of industry’s more volatile issues from a different angle, one sure to sensitize your employees to nuances they might miss by examining the problem from the usual man-hassles-woman perspective.

This movie is a clinic.  Screen it with, or route it to, your staff, and they’ll come away better-prepared than they’d be by dry instructional videos, or seminars which make attendees uncomfortable, and merely talk about what this movie depicts so well.

Leadership 101 from “Bridge on the River Kwai”

Alec Guinness is Col. Nicholson, whose British battalion lands in a hellhole World War II prison camp, commanded by Sessue Hayakawa’s insufferable Col. Saito.

Ever felt hamstrung by a ballbuster boss?  Watch Nicholson triumph over adversity…by leadership.

Tattered, ragtag, and hobbled by injuries, his proud troops march into camp whistling that unforgettable theme.  Saito’s welcome: “ENGLISH PRISONERS!  NOTICE I DON’T SAY SOLDIERS!”  He trashes captured officers in front of their troops: “IT IS THEY WHO BROUGHT YOU HERE!”  But the Brits never drop their game face.

Hopelessly behind schedule building a bridge for Japanese troop trains, Saito threatens “I COULD HAVE YOU ALL SHOT!”  Nicholson coolly replies “THEN WHO WOULD BUILD YOUR BRIDGE?”  And he takes over the project and builds a better bridge, quicker, than Saito could have.  The wily English colonel winks to his officers “I KNOW OUR MEN.  IT’S ESSENTIAL THEY TAKE PRIDE IN THEIR JOBS” as he increases their workload beyond the Japanese quota.  Even the slacker American prisoner played by William Holden found new pride.

See this SEVEN-Oscar movie again.  It’ll show you how to lead your troops.

Sales: How Not To

Alec Baldwin had a bit part and played-it-to-the-hilt:  “PUT THAT COFFEE DOWN!  THAT COFFEE’S FOR CLOSERS!”

The late, great Jack Lemmon called Glengarry Glen Ross “the best film I’ve ever been in.”  And Al Pacino picked up an Oscar for his role, although everyone in the movie deserved a statue.

What Lemmon, Pacino, Baldwin, Ed Harris, and Kevin Spacey show us is “Death of a Salesman’s” Willie Loman in action.  To say more will spoil it for you.  Everyone in sales should see this powerful story.

Read/see/hear more at www.HollandCooke.com, and follow @HollandCooke on Twitter.  And meet HC at Talkers New York 2013 on Thursday, June 6.