The Broadcasters Podcast Podcast

3 DAYS AGO

SiriusXM's Struggles Underscore a Bleak Year for Radio (ep.361)

SiriusXM's stock plummeted after the company delivered a disappointing 2025 revenue forecast and announced a new round of cost-cutting, including the departure of a key executive. This news comes amidst a tumultuous year for the radio industry, with SiriusXM's struggles mirroring the broader challenges faced by traditional broadcasters. 2024 has seen a continued decline in radio listenership, particularly among younger demographics who have largely migrated to streaming platforms. This trend has led to dwindling advertising revenue, forcing many radio companies to resort to drastic measures such as staff layoffs, debt restructuring, and even bankruptcy. While SiriusXM has attempted to diversify by investing in streaming and partnering with car manufacturers like Tesla and Rivian, these efforts have yet to yield significant results. The company's latest announcement raises serious concerns about its ability to navigate the evolving media landscape and the uncertain future of radio. Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.com Support KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of Podcasts Follow KOP on Twitter or Facebook @kingofpodcasts Listen to KOP’s other programs, Depraved and Debaucherous, Podcasters Row and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-broadcasters-podcast--3684131/support.

58 min

DEC 6

Pop’s Power Shift: Rising Stars, Genre Crossovers, and New Chart Champions in 2024

In 2024, the music industry experienced a powerful transformation, blending emerging talent with genre-defying crossovers. Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, and Gracie Abrams redefined pop, climbing from niche recognition to dominating major charts. Sabrina’s anthemic hits, Chappell’s theatrical flair, and Gracie’s introspective lyricism connected with audiences, earning spots on global streaming playlists. Meanwhile, Kendrick Lamar overtook Drake, marking a shift in hip-hop dominance. Kendrick’s introspective lyrics and genre-fusion albums earned him massive streams, reflecting a shift toward deeper, more complex narratives in rap. Afrobeats further expanded its influence, led by Tyla, Ayra Starr Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tems. Collaborations with global artists elevated Afrobeats beyond its African roots, dominating dance floors and mainstream radio worldwide. Burna Boy’s infectious rhythms and Wizkid’s smooth vocals made Afrobeats a mainstay in pop playlists, with Spotify reporting a 35% increase in Afrobeats streams globally. Country music also broke new ground. Luke Combs and Morgan Wallen led a genre resurgence by blending traditional country with pop and rock elements, reaching new, younger audiences. Wallen’s crossover success on pop charts and Combs’ viral covers of pop songs brought country into urban spaces, with Apple Music noting country as the fastest-growing genre among listeners under 30. Spotify Wrapped and Apple Music Replay crowned Taylor Swift, Drake, and Bad Bunny among the most-streamed artists, yet newer genres and stars indicated a shifting landscape. With Afrobeats and country breaking cultural barriers, and new pop icons emerging, 2024 proved that music is more global and genre-fluid than ever before. Taylor Swift's The Tortured Poets Department had a strong run at the top of the Billboard 200, spending 15 non-consecutive weeks at No. 1 before being overtaken by Post Malone's F-1 Trillion, which debuted with a massive 250,000 equivalent album units sold. Swift's 31-track opus still holds a solid position at No. 3 with 62,000 units sold in its latest week, showcasing her consistent fanbase and broad appeal. Post Malone’s F-1 Trillion has been making waves, driven by a futuristic concept and a bold marketing campaign that appeals to both mainstream and niche audiences. Meanwhile, Charli XCX’s BRAT, with its edgy and rebellious tone, continues to resonate with fans, landing at No. 7 with 41,000 units sold this week. On the country side, rising stars Dasha and Myles Smith have been making notable strides. Dasha is recognized for blending traditional country with modern influences, gaining traction on streaming platforms. Myles Smith, known for his soulful approach to country music, continues to grow his audience, offering a fresh perspective on the genre while staying true to its roots. This diverse musical landscape, from Afrobeats and country to pop and rap, reflects how various genres are thriving and evolving in today's market. Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.com Support KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of Podcasts Follow KOP on Twitter or Facebook @kingofpodcasts Listen to KOP’s other programs, Depraved and Debaucherous, Podcasters Row and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-broadcasters-podcast--3684131/support.

42 min

NOV 29

The Disconnect: Bob Pittman, iHeartMedia, and the Fading Signal of Traditional Radio (ep.359)

Bob Pittman, the CEO of iHeartMedia, recently took to MSNBC to champion radio as a bastion of trust and a bulwark against misinformation in the tumultuous sea of the 2024 election cycle. He painted a picture of radio as a steadfast companion, a reliable source of truth in a world increasingly plagued by the echo chambers of social media. While Pittman's sentiments might hold a kernel of truth, they also reveal a stark disconnect between his perception of radio's role in the modern media landscape and the reality of its struggle to stay relevant against the rising tide of digital audio content. Pittman's recent pronouncements on the enduring power of radio come on the heels of sweeping layoffs that have rocked iHeartMedia. Just last week, the company axed hundreds of employees across its vast network of stations, a move that sent shockwaves through the industry and left many questioning the future of traditional radio. These layoffs, the latest in a series of cost-cutting measures, underscore the financial challenges plaguing iHeartMedia and the broader radio industry. While Pittman is quick to highlight radio's trustworthiness and its regulatory framework as strengths, he seems to overlook the elephant in the room: the seismic shift in consumer behavior and the rise of new technologies that are rapidly reshaping the audio landscape. Podcasting, with its on-demand nature and diverse range of content, has exploded in popularity, offering listeners a level of choice and control that traditional radio simply cannot match. Similarly, live streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube are attracting younger audiences with their interactive formats and personalized content recommendations. Pittman's assertion that radio is a "constant, trusted companion" rings hollow for a generation that has grown up with smartphones and instant access to a universe of audio content. In an era of personalized playlists and algorithmic recommendations, the linear, one-size-fits-all model of traditional radio feels increasingly outdated. While radio may still hold a certain appeal for older demographics, its grip on younger audiences is weakening with each passing year. The irony is that iHeartMedia, under Pittman's leadership, has been at the forefront of digital audio innovation. The company has invested heavily in podcasting and streaming, recognizing the need to diversify its offerings and adapt to changing consumer preferences. Yet, Pittman's public pronouncements often seem to cling to a nostalgic vision of radio's past glory, failing to fully acknowledge the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital revolution. The disconnect between Pittman's rhetoric and the reality of iHeartMedia's struggles raises questions about his leadership and his vision for the future of the company. Is he truly committed to embracing new technologies and transforming iHeartMedia into a digital-first audio powerhouse? Or is he clinging to an outdated model, hoping to weather the storm by relying on the dwindling loyalty of older listeners? The recent layoffs at iHeartMedia suggest that the company is facing a financial reckoning. While Pittman may tout radio's enduring value, the numbers tell a different story. The company is saddled with debt, its advertising revenue is declining, and its stock price has been languishing. These challenges cannot be ignored, and they demand bold, innovative solutions. Pittman's focus on radio's trustworthiness and its role in combating misinformation is commendable. However, it cannot be the sole strategy for survival in the rapidly evolving media landscape. To thrive in the digital age, iHeartMedia needs to embrace new technologies, invest in innovative content formats, and connect with younger audiences on their terms. The future of radio may not be as bleak as some predict, but it certainly won't be a return to the glory days of the past. It's time for Bob Pittman and...

48 min

NOV 22

Corporate Media Gives a Lump of Christmas Coal to Cable Channels and Staff (ep.358)

Corporate Media at a Crossroads just in time for the holidays. The media landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, with major implications for how we consume news and the future of journalism itself. The media landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, with major implications for how we consume news and the future of journalism itself. Recent events, including Comcast's spinoff of NBCUniversal's cable networks, have highlighted the challenges and uncertainties facing corporate media outlets. A key factor in this upheaval is the declining trust in mainstream media. There's a growing perception that corporate media outlets are biased, sensationalistic, and more interested in pushing a particular agenda than reporting the facts. This loss of trust has translated into declining ratings, particularly for networks like MSNBC, which has seen its viewership plummet by 51% since the 2020 election. Comcast's decision to spin off its cable networks, including MSNBC, into a new company called SpinCo, has sent ripples through the industry. While some see this as a necessary move to adapt to the changing media landscape, others are uncertain about its implications. Comcast's shares rose after the announcement, suggesting that investors may view the spinoff as a positive step. The spinoff will likely sever ties between MSNBC and NBC News, further isolating the struggling network. MSNBC's ratings decline is a major factor in the decision, and the network's future remains uncertain. Amidst these challenges, there is a growing call for a return to traditional journalistic principles. Media outlets can regain public trust by hiring reporters with less political bias, cutting sensationalism from news stories, and putting the country ahead of party. The future of news remains uncertain. As corporate media outlets grapple with declining trust and ratings, they must adapt to the changing landscape and find new ways to engage audiences. Whether the current upheaval will lead to a more diverse and trustworthy media landscape or further fragmentation remains to be seen. Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.com Support KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of Podcasts Follow KOP on Twitter or Facebook @kingofpodcasts Listen to KOP’s other programs, Depraved and Debaucherous, Podcasters Row and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-broadcasters-podcast--3684131/support.

28 min

NOV 15

New Media Pivots Past Hollywood, Music and Broadcasting (ep.357)

2025 looks to be the year of new media (music streaming, social media, influencers on YouTube Instagram and TikTok) making the pivot to overtake mainstream content (cable and network TV, news magazines and newspapers). This year marked a watershed moment in media consumption, with new media finally eclipsing traditional outlets in both audience engagement and revenue generation. The long-predicted shift away from cable television, network news, and print publications accelerated dramatically in 2025, leaving the old guard scrambling to adapt. Streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music have completely dominated the music industry, rendering physical album sales a niche market. Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have become the primary source of news and entertainment for Gen Z and Millennials, while YouTube continues its reign as the king of online video. "The writing's been on the wall for years," says media analyst Sarah Chen. "Younger generations have grown up with on-demand content, personalized recommendations, and interactive experiences. Traditional media simply can't compete with that level of engagement." The rise of the influencer has further disrupted the media landscape. Charismatic personalities on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok command massive, dedicated audiences, often surpassing the reach of established media outlets. Brands are increasingly turning to these influencers to connect with consumers, further eroding the advertising revenue that once supported traditional media. "Influencers are the new tastemakers," says marketing consultant David Lee. "They have built authentic relationships with their followers, who trust their opinions and recommendations. That kind of trust is invaluable for brands." This shift has had a profound impact on the media industry. Major television networks have seen their ratings plummet, leading to budget cuts and layoffs. Print publications have struggled to stay afloat, with many forced to close their doors or move entirely online. However, the transition hasn't been entirely smooth. Concerns about misinformation, echo chambers, and the mental health impact of social media have become increasingly prominent. The lack of regulation in the new media landscape has also raised questions about accountability and ethical standards. "It's a Wild West out there," says media ethics professor Emily Rodriguez. "We need to develop new frameworks for ensuring accuracy, fairness, and responsibility in this new media ecosystem." Despite these challenges, the momentum clearly lies with new media. As technology continues to evolve and consumer habits continue to shift, the influence of traditional media is likely to diminish even further. 2025 may be remembered as the year that new media truly came of age, ushering in a new era of information and entertainment. Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.com Support KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of Podcasts Follow KOP on Twitter or Facebook @kingofpodcasts Listen to KOP’s other programs, Depraved and Debaucherous, Podcasters Row and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-broadcasters-podcast--3684131/support.

45 min

NOV 8

How Podcasts Overtook Traditional Media as Key Platform for 2024 Election Messaging (ep.356)

In the 2024 election lead-up, both Donald Trump and Kamala Harris leveraged the podcast platform to connect with diverse voter bases, stepping away from traditional media. Trump, appearing on popular shows like ImPaulsive with Logan Paul, This Past Weekend with Theo Von, and PBD Podcast, targeted a male demographic, discussing topics from artificial intelligence to his views on social issues like abortion and marijuana. These episodes often reached millions, broadening his appeal to younger, podcast-savvy audiences. Harris, meanwhile, engaged on shows like Call Her Daddy and All the Smoke, aiming to connect with younger women and minority communities on issues such as abortion rights, mental health, and social equity. Her podcast engagements allowed her to focus on progressive policies and expand her outreach beyond traditional voters. The impact of these appearances highlights how new media—particularly podcasts—is reshaping political engagement, allowing candidates to bypass legacy media for direct, often more personal, communication. This shift has made podcasts a powerful tool, not just for influencing opinion but for demonstrating a broader trend of new media outpacing traditional news outlets in electoral impact. Here’s a list of major podcast appearances by Donald Trump and Kamala Harris leading up to the 2024 presidential election: Donald Trump: ImPaulsive with Logan Paul – Discussed artificial intelligence and politics. This Past Weekend with Theo Von – Shared personal views on addiction and family values. Lex Friedman Podcast – Touched on medical marijuana and the 2020 election. FLAGRANT – Spoke about abortion rights and political reform. Bussin’ with the Boys – Addressed immigration and trade. PBD Podcast – Critiqued political opponents and discussed national threats. Kamala Harris: Call Her Daddy – Discussed abortion, women’s rights, and cost of living policies. All the Smoke – Addressed mental health issues in the U.S. and educational reforms. Club Shay Shay Roland Martin Unfiltered The Breakfast Club These appearances allowed each candidate to directly engage younger and niche audiences on key issues, amplifying their message outside of traditional media outlets. Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.com Support KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of Podcasts Follow KOP on Twitter or Facebook @kingofpodcasts Listen to KOP’s other programs, Depraved and Debaucherous, Podcasters Row and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-broadcasters-podcast--3684131/support.

1h 5m

NOV 1

Corridos Country and Afrobeats Are Redefining the Streaming Mainstream (ep.355)

Streaming Giants Shake Up the Mainstream: Corridos, Afrobeats, and More Take Center Stage. The music industry is undergoing a seismic shift as alternative genres, once relegated to the fringes, are exploding onto the mainstream through the power of streaming. Corridos, Afrobeats, K-Pop solo artists, and even certain corners of country music are finding massive audiences online, often outpacing traditional radio play. This phenomenon highlights a growing disconnect between the established gatekeepers of the music industry and the tastes of a digitally connected generation. While radio continues to favor established formulas, streaming platforms like Spotify and YouTube Music have become fertile ground for musical discovery, allowing artists to connect directly with fans and build global followings organically. "Streaming has democratized music discovery," says music industry analyst Sarah Chen. "It's empowering listeners to explore beyond the limitations of radio and algorithms, and it's allowing artists from diverse backgrounds to reach audiences they never could have before." One striking example is the rise of corridos tumbados, a subgenre of regional Mexican music blending traditional corridos with trap and hip-hop influences. Artists like Peso Pluma, Natanael Cano, and Eslabon Armado are racking up billions of streams, with hits like "Ella Baila Sola" and "AMG" dominating global charts. Yet, their presence on mainstream radio remains limited. Similarly, Afrobeats continues its global ascent, with Nigerian superstars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido leading the charge. Their infectious rhythms and vibrant melodies have captivated audiences worldwide, but radio play in many Western markets still lags behind their streaming dominance. Even within the realm of country music, artists like Zach Bryan and Tyler Childers are challenging the genre's conventions, drawing inspiration from folk, bluegrass, and indie rock. Their raw, authentic sound has resonated deeply with fans, propelling them to streaming stardom even as they receive limited airplay on mainstream country radio. K-Pop solo artists are also making waves, with stars like Lisa of BLACKPINK and IU achieving massive global success. Their music videos routinely garner hundreds of millions of views on YouTube, and their songs dominate digital charts. This shift towards streaming-driven success has significant implications for the music industry. Record labels are increasingly looking to streaming data to identify emerging talent, and artists are finding new ways to connect with fans directly through social media and online platforms. While radio remains a relevant force, its influence is waning in the face of the streaming revolution. As listeners continue to embrace the freedom and diversity of online music discovery, the mainstream is becoming increasingly reflective of the global tapestry of sound. Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.com Support KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of Podcasts Follow KOP on Twitter or Facebook @kingofpodcasts Listen to KOP’s other programs, Depraved and Debaucherous, Podcasters Row and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-broadcasters-podcast--3684131/support.

42 min

OCT 25

News Publishers Congregate and Challenge AI for Copyright (ep.354)

Publishers confront the AI era meanwhile an international protest of unlicensed use of copyrighted content by AI systems has gathered more than 13,500 signatories. The publishing world is grappling with the rise of AI, facing a dual challenge: how to leverage AI's potential while protecting their copyrighted content. Here's a breakdown of the latest developments: Publishers Confront the AI Era: * Licensing Deals: Some publishers are striking deals with AI companies like OpenAI to license their content for use in training AI models. This offers a potential revenue stream and ensures some control over how their content is used. However, these deals are not universally available, leaving smaller publishers at a disadvantage. * Anti-crawler Measures: Publishers are employing anti-crawler measures to prevent AI companies from scraping their websites for free content. This is a defensive strategy aimed at forcing AI companies to the negotiating table. * Traffic Referrals: AI platforms like Google's SearchGPT and Perplexity are starting to drive traffic back to publisher websites, offering a potential upside to content licensing. However, the extent and sustainability of this referral traffic remain unclear. * Internal AI Use: Publishers are exploring ways to use AI internally to improve efficiency and personalize content recommendations for readers. International Protest Against Unlicensed Use of Copyrighted Content: * A petition signed by over 13,500 authors, publishers, and industry professionals highlights the growing concern over AI's use of copyrighted material without permission or compensation. * The petition calls for AI companies to respect copyright laws and for policymakers to create clear guidelines for AI's use of copyrighted content. Key Concerns for Publishers: * Copyright Infringement: The unauthorized use of copyrighted material to train AI models is a major concern, raising questions about fair use and compensation. * Competition from AI-Generated Content: Publishers worry that AI-generated content could flood the market, devaluing human-created works and potentially putting authors out of jobs. * Transparency and Control: Publishers seek greater transparency about how AI companies use their content and want more control over its use. Looking Ahead: The tension between publishers and AI companies is likely to continue as both sides navigate this evolving landscape. The outcome will depend on factors such as legal developments, technological advancements, and the willingness of both sides to negotiate fair and sustainable solutions. It's important to stay informed about these developments as they unfold. Here are some resources to help you stay up-to-date: * Digiday: Media Briefing: Publishers confront the AI era during the Digiday Publishing Summit * Publishers Weekly: Confronting Publishing's AI Fears * Literary Hub: Publishers are already using way too much AI. By staying informed, publishers and content creators can better advocate for their interests and work towards a future where AI and publishing can coexist and thrive. Contact KOP for professional podcast production, imaging, and web design services at http://www.kingofpodcasts.com Support KOP by subscribing to his YouTube channel and search for King Of Podcasts Follow KOP on Twitter or Facebook @kingofpodcasts Listen to KOP’s other programs, Depraved and Debaucherous, Podcasters Row and the Wrestling is Real Wrestling Podcast Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-broadcasters-podcast--3684131/support.

53 min

The Broadcasters Podcast

SiriusXM's Struggles Underscore a Bleak Year for Radio (ep.361)

Pop’s Power Shift: Rising Stars, Genre Crossovers, and New Chart Champions in 2024

The Disconnect: Bob Pittman, iHeartMedia, and the Fading Signal of Traditional Radio (ep.359)

Corporate Media Gives a Lump of Christmas Coal to Cable Channels and Staff (ep.358)

New Media Pivots Past Hollywood, Music and Broadcasting (ep.357)

How Podcasts Overtook Traditional Media as Key Platform for 2024 Election Messaging (ep.356)

Corridos Country and Afrobeats Are Redefining the Streaming Mainstream (ep.355)

News Publishers Congregate and Challenge AI for Copyright (ep.354)

About

Information

The Broadcasters Podcast

Episodes

SiriusXM's Struggles Underscore a Bleak Year for Radio (ep.361)

Pop’s Power Shift: Rising Stars, Genre Crossovers, and New Chart Champions in 2024

The Disconnect: Bob Pittman, iHeartMedia, and the Fading Signal of Traditional Radio (ep.359)

Corporate Media Gives a Lump of Christmas Coal to Cable Channels and Staff (ep.358)

New Media Pivots Past Hollywood, Music and Broadcasting (ep.357)

How Podcasts Overtook Traditional Media as Key Platform for 2024 Election Messaging (ep.356)

Corridos Country and Afrobeats Are Redefining the Streaming Mainstream (ep.355)

News Publishers Congregate and Challenge AI for Copyright (ep.354)

About

Information