Speaking of Audacy, would love to see them add more local programing to 1430 am here in Denver as they just added a MileHigh Sports show in the afternoon. I know its a sports station, but I think it would be nice to mix it with a news show some as a listener instead of being 80% nationally sindicated Westwood One shows.I didn't think you were being aggressive but also didn't want you to think I was naive. I worked for all the major iterations of this organization... Jacor, Clear Channel, iHeart in 2 different markets... I was fully aware of what I was getting into, but what had notably changed with each name and "rebirth" was how centralized the decision-making seemed to be becoming. Also, depending on the strength of the local leadership, they could "keep at bay" the corporate deciders and advocate for those they valued, and San Antonio would, at least 10-20 years ago, listen and allow local management to decide employee value and architecture.
One of the first things I did (besides drink some beer) was reach out to all the local groups about the "opportunity" to do a news program, even a rudimentary one, to at least try to maybe fill the void. Needless to say, no takers. I really appealed to Audacy, since they hold the former CBS News stations and much of the leadership (with whom I'm well connected). The outline and structure are there, and it wouldn't necessarily have to be made/created out of "whole cloth" here in Denver.
I did also appeal to CPR, and while one really cannot argue their style, widget, or success, I did say there existed an opportunity to exploit the newfound news hole, even if in podcast form. Some emails back and forth, but nothing of note. I did apply for the Host role for "Morning Edition." At the very least I thought my name recognition and, of course, my previous 8 years at KOA would really be an asset. I made it to the 2nd round after having to cut a 2-minute newscast using their content (I'm not above anything, but come on, I'm not worth at least a call and conversation?). Maybe they felt the role was more just in and out and not quite as substantive as what I did, but that's the missed opportunity to expand upon what they do, not change, but add via their other platforms (podcast, etc.), especially since someone I know on the inside said they wanted to have someone who did more local interviews...hello?! But also in reality, my age and demographics were not optically ideal, considering Mike Lamp shares my demo and is just a few years older. They maybe wanted a newer look and sound.
I hope something works out for you soon. Keep us posted when it does. Thanks.
