TGIF: The Pulse Has Your Briefing For June 12

Radio Broadcasting

Calder Gets New Gig: Veteran radio programmer Will Calder has been named Operations Manager for Beasley Media Group’s six-station Tampa radio group. Calder succeeds Rick Thomas, who recently departed the company to pursue his next career chapter.

Revitalizing AM Radio: The NAB held discussions with senior FCC Media Bureau officials on June 5 to explore additional ways to strengthen and modernize AM radio service.

The Beat Revamps: “103.5 The Beat” WMIB is shaking up its daily lineup as longtime afternoon host “Papa Keith” Walcott transitions from afternoons to a new position as National Brand Partnerships Multicultural Specialist for iHeartMedia

Media Industry

Shocker: Vice President JD Vance will sit down for a live interview with the co-hosts of ABC’s The View on Tuesday, June 16, marking a surprising crossover between the conservative political figure and the long-running daytime talk show.

Stahl Re-ups: Veteran journalist Lesley Stahl has signed a new two-year contract to continue as a correspondent on CBS’s flagship newsmagazine “60 Minutes,” according to people familiar with the deal. The agreement marks a shift from Stahl’s recent year-to-year contracts and provides stability for the program amid significant internal upheaval at CBS News.=

Lachlan Gets Extension: Lachlan Murdoch will remain chief executive officer of Fox Corp. through 2030 under a new contract extension, the company announced Thursday in a securities filing.

U-S News

Airstrikes On Hold: President Donald Trump on Thursday canceled the latest wave of airstrikes he threatened on Iran and announced that a "great settlement" of the war could soon be signed. Trump said "discussions and final points" of an agreement have been approved by all parties involved. 

Prices Surge: Prices charged by American producers continued to charge higher in May, the Labor Department said Thursday, marking another month of elevated wholesale inflation. The producer-price index rose by 1.1% last month, following an equal increase in April. Over the past 12 months, the PPI is up by 6.5%, the fastest wholesale inflation since 2022.

New IPO: SpaceX, Elon Musk’s rocket and satellite maker, officially finalized its initial public offering price to become the world’s largest stock market debut. SpaceX confirmed its I.P.O. price was set at $135 a share and that it would sell more than 555 million shares, according to a company statement. That means SpaceX would raise around $75 billion from its offering, putting its valuation at $1.77 trillion.

Tampa Radio: Will Calder Named OM For Beasley Media Cluster

Veteran radio programmer Will Calder has been named Operations Manager for Beasley Media Group’s six-station Tampa radio group.

Calder succeeds Rick Thomas, who recently departed the company to pursue his next career chapter. A major-market programming leader with deep Florida radio experience. Calder’s radio career began in 2001 which included various stops at Big City Radio Chicago (WKIE-FM), then Entercom Milwaukee (WXSS-FM/WMYX-FM), CBS Radio New York (WXRK-FM), Cox Media Group Orlando (WPYO-FM) and Tampa (WPOI-FM) and currently Audacy Miami (WPOW-FM). 

From 2005 to 2013, he joined forces with colleagues to create RADIOMIXES.com, a nationally syndicated radio mix show with Audacy’s B96 (WBBM-FM) in Chicago and 103.7 KISS-FM (WXSS-FM) in Milwaukee as their first two affiliates. At its prime, RADIOMIXES was heard on hundreds of radio stations worldwide. 

Will Calder

Additionally, in 2005, Calder created an internet radio station called iPartyRadio, which played non-stop up-tempo dance and party music and quickly became one of the world’s top 200 most-listened-to internet streams during its era.

Beasley stations are:

• WRBQ 104.7 FM (Q105): 80s/90s Classic hits 
• WQYK 99.5 FM (QY-K): Country 
• WLLD 94.1 FM (Wild 94.1): Rhythmic CHR
• WYUU 92.5 FM (Máxima 92.5): Bilingual Latin pop and Spanish-language contemporary
• WJBR 1010 AM: Florida Alumni Radio, featuring sports talk

“Will is an outstanding programmer and leader with a proven track record of building great brands, developing talent, and driving results,” said Justin Chase, Beasley Chief Content Officer. “Having previously worked in the Tampa market, he understands both our audience and our opportunity. His passion, creativity, and deep industry experience make him a tremendous addition to our team, and we’re thrilled to welcome him to Beasley.”

“Few people understand Florida radio as well as Will does,” said Ron deCastro, Vice President and Market Manager of Beasley Media Group Tampa. “His track record of building successful brands, leading high-performing teams, and connecting with audiences makes him a tremendous addition to our leadership team. We’re excited about the future and confident he’ll help take our cluster to the next level.”

“I’m excited to join Beasley Media Group and return to the Tampa market,” said Calder. “This cluster has strong legacy brands, talented people, and real local momentum. I’m looking forward to working with the team to build on what’s already working, continue growing these brands, and create great content and experiences for our listeners and partners.”

NAB Meets FCC to Push AM Radio Revitalization Efforts

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) held discussions with senior Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Media Bureau officials on June 5 to explore additional ways to strengthen and modernize AM radio service.

NAB Associate General Counsel for Legal and Regulatory Affairs Larry Walke was joined by SVP/Deputy General Counsel Ben Arden and VP/Advanced Engineering David Layer for the meeting with Audio Division Chief Al Shuldiner and Deputy Audio Division Chief Jim Bradshaw.

The session focused on regulatory changes that could help AM stations improve coverage, reduce costs, and better serve their audiences amid ongoing industry challenges. It took place as part of FCC Chairman Brendan Carr’s “Delete, Delete, Delete” initiative aimed at eliminating outdated rules.

NAB urged the FCC to take two specific actions:

• Eliminate certain minimum efficiency standards that currently limit AM stations’ ability to select more effective antennas or locate them on smaller, less expensive properties closer to listeners.
• Remove barriers that complicate access to the AM expanded band (1605–1705 kHz) and open a new filing window allowing stations to apply for frequencies in that spectrum.

The group also highlighted AM radio’s critical role in public safety, emergency alerts, and national infrastructure, encouraging continued FCC support for the medium.

Shocker: Vance to Appear On 'The View'

Vice President JD Vance will sit down for a live interview with the co-hosts of ABC’s The View on Tuesday, June 16, marking a surprising crossover between the conservative political figure and the long-running daytime talk show.

The announcement came Thursday morning during the program, when moderator Whoopi Goldberg addressed the studio audience at the top of the episode. While discussing President Donald Trump’s recent economic comments, Goldberg stated, “This will be one of many questions that we will be asking our guest on Tuesday.” 

She then confirmed: “We’re going to be joined at the table by Vice President JD Vance.” The revelation drew audible gasps from the audience before the show cut to a commercial break. 

Lesley Stahl Signs Contract to Remain at ‘60 Minutes’

Lesley Stahl

Veteran journalist Lesley Stahl has signed a new two-year contract to continue as a correspondent on CBS’s flagship newsmagazine “60 Minutes,” according to people familiar with the deal.

The agreement marks a shift from Stahl’s recent year-to-year contracts and provides stability for the program amid significant internal upheaval at CBS News.

Stahl, 84, has been a “60 Minutes” correspondent since 1991 and is one of the show’s longest-serving on-air personalities. Her decision to commit for two more years comes just days after she, along with correspondents Bill Whitaker and Jon Wertheim, publicly announced they would “stay and fight” to preserve the newsmagazine following a wave of high-profile firings and leadership changes.

The contract finalization was reported Thursday as the show navigates a turbulent period that has included the ouster of longtime executive producer Scott Pelley and several other senior correspondents and producers. Stahl has described the recent events as the “hardest chapter” and “worst experience” of her career, yet she has chosen to remain and continue reporting, including segments already in production for the upcoming season.

Lachlan Murdoch Secures Contract Extension At Fox

Lachlan Murdoch will remain chief executive officer of Fox Corp. through 2030 under a new contract extension, the company announced Thursday in a securities filing.

Fox’s board and compensation committee unanimously approved the deal, which also keeps Chief Financial Officer Steve Tomsic in his role through 2030. Murdoch recused himself from the negotiations to avoid any conflict of interest.

The extension includes a significant boost to Murdoch’s pay package. His target annual bonus rises to $9 million, and his target annual equity award increases to $20 million. His base salary stays at $3 million. In fiscal 2025, Murdoch’s total compensation climbed to $33 million, up from $23.8 million the previous year.

For Tomsic, the new terms raise his salary to $2 million per year. His target annual bonus is set at $3 million, stepping up to $3.5 million starting in July 2028, while his target annual equity award increases to $4 million.

The contract extension further solidifies Lachlan Murdoch’s control over Fox Corp. He gained full voting control of the company through a family trust after buying out his siblings for $3.3 billion last summer. Unlike his more liberal siblings, Lachlan has long aligned with the conservative political views of his late father, Rupert Murdoch.

The new agreement ensures leadership continuity at the media giant for the next several years.

Miami Radio: The Beat Revamps

“103.5 The Beat” WMIB is shaking up its daily lineup as longtime afternoon host “Papa Keith” Walcott transitions from afternoons to a new position as National Brand Partnerships Multicultural Specialist for iHeartMedia.Walcott, who has anchored afternoons since 2013, will continue hosting Saturday mornings and his “Common Sense PhD.” podcast.

“I’ve had more than 30 years in radio to connect with the community,” Walcott said. “As I pass the torch to DJ Entice — someone who represents the energy and passion of 103.5 The Beat — I know afternoons are in great hands. While he takes the show to the next level, I’m excited to begin a new chapter with iHeartMedia, expanding my impact and serving Miami on an even bigger stage.”

New Lineup Highlights:

TV Ratings: Hockey Surges

Tuesday night’s 2026 Stanley Cup Final Game 4 (8 p.m. ET), which saw the Carolina Hurricanes defeat the Vegas Golden Knights 5-3 in Las Vegas to even the series at 2-2, averaged 5.3 million viewers on ABC and drew the largest Game 4 audience since 2017 (Pittsburgh-Nashville, NBC).

Viewership was up 104% compared to Game 4 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final on Turner Networks and up 74% versus Game 4 of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final on ABC. Tuesday night’s game audience peaked at 6.4 million viewers (10:30 – 10:45 p.m.).

ESPN’s presentation of the 2026 Stanley Cup Final is averaging 5 million viewers through four games, making it the largest championship series audience through four games since 2015 and fourth best Stanley Cup Final since 1994 (thru four games). To date, the audience is up 101% from last year’s Stanley Cup Final, continuing postseason that has generated audience highs across ESPN platforms.

The 2026 Stanley Cup Final has delivered one of the most competitive championship series in recent years, featuring overtime drama, multiple one-goal games and momentum swings throughout the first four contests that have helped drive strong viewership throughout the series.

WaPo Hit with Class Action Lawsuit Over Surveillance Pricing

A proposed class action lawsuit filed Thursday accuses The Washington Post of secretly collecting vast amounts of personal data from subscribers and using it to charge loyal, longtime readers higher renewal prices through “surveillance pricing.”

The 43-page complaint, filed in D.C. Superior Court by lead plaintiff Chelsea Blink and others, claims the newspaper covertly harvested data from users’ devices for years to build detailed profiles and maximize profits by charging individuals different prices for the same digital subscriptions.

According to the suit, The Post began the practice in the mid-2010s after investing heavily in its digital platforms. While subscribers expected data use for relevant ads or recommendations, the company allegedly weaponized reading habits, location data (via IP addresses), device types, browsing behavior, and engagement metrics to set personalized prices—often higher for the most loyal daily readers who demonstrated strong attachment to the content.

The allegations surfaced publicly only after New York’s 2025 disclosure law forced transparency. Renewal notices then revealed phrases such as “This price was set by an algorithm using your personal data,” sparking widespread subscriber outrage as users compared widely varying rates.

Blink, a D.C. resident and daily reader since 2016 who works for a member of Congress, says she had no idea her data was being used this way and received higher rates as a result of her loyalty. The proposed class includes current and former subscribers nationwide whose data was collected for pricing purposes during the statute of limitations period.

FOX Weather Unveils Scholarship Recipient

FOX Weather, FOX News Media’s free ad-supported streaming television (“FAST”) weather service, in partnership with Mississippi State University (MSU), has named Jake Kasitz as the fifth recipient of its annual scholarship program, announced Sharri Berg, president of the service. As part of the scholarship, Kasitz will intern with FOX Weather during the 2026-2027 school year as well as be mentored by meteorologist Ian Oliver.

In making the announcement Berg said, “We are proud to recognize Jake Kasitz as the fifth recipient of our scholarship in partnership with Mississippi State University. We welcome him to a growing group of talented young meteorologists who represent the future of our industry as we remain committed to supporting the next generation of weather professionals through mentorship and hands-on experience.”

Kasitz added, “It is an honor to be chosen as this year’s FOX Weather Scholarship recipient. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities this program provides and excited to learn from some of the best professionals in the industry. I look forward to expanding my knowledge of meteorology and am eager for what lies ahead.”

Broadcasting+Cable Hall of Fame Unveils Inductees For 2026

The 2026 Broadcasting+Cable Hall of Fame Class has announced a distinguished group of 14 media leaders, innovators, and cultural icons for their transformative contributions to broadcast, cable, and streaming television. The 34th annual gala is scheduled for September 29, 2026, at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City.

Standout Honorees:

• Star Trek (Paramount/CBS Studios) receives the inaugural Franchise of the Year Award in celebration of its 60th anniversary. The enduring sci-fi phenomenon spans 11 TV series, 14 films, and over 900 episodes, celebrated for promoting diversity, scientific exploration, and cultural impact worldwide.
• Wolf Blitzer (CNN) — Longtime co-anchor of The Situation Room, recognized for 35+ years of award-winning journalism, political coverage, international reporting, and Holocaust education efforts.
• Andy Cohen (Bravo/NBCUniversal) — Host, executive producer, and author who has become a defining figure in reality television and unscripted programming.
• Stephen A. Smith (ESPN) — Prominent commentator and executive producer of First Take, honored for his influential sports media presence.
• Bobby Flay (Food Network) — Chef, restaurateur, and media personality celebrated for his culinary programming and entertainment contributions.

Radio History: June 12

➦In 1851...Early Radio pioneer, Oliver Joseph Lodge, was born in England (Died - August 22, 1940).

Oliver Lodge

He was a British physicist and writer involved in the development of key patents in wireless telegraphy.

On 14 August 1894, at a meeting of the British Association for the Advancement of Science at Oxford University, Lodge gave a lecture on the work of Hertz (then-recently deceased). 

There he conducted a demonstration of Hertzian (radio) based wireless telegraphy, transmitting messages between two buildings, showing their potential for communication.   

This was one year before Marconi demonstrated his system for radio wireless telegraphy.

➦In 1911...the consummate radio actress Claudia Morgan was born in Brooklyn.

Throughout the 1940’s she played Nora Charles opposite Les Tremayne in The Adventures of the Thin Man. She was married to radio announcer and actor Ernest Chappell, and performed with him on the late ’40s horror show, “Quiet Please.” She was also a regular on The O’Neills, David Harum, Ford Theatre, Joyce Jordan, M.D., The Right to Happiness, Grand Central Station, Inner Sanctum Mysteries, On Stage and Dimension X.  In the early ’70s, Morgan was heard on Himan Brown‘s CBS Mystery Theater.  She died Sept. 17 1974 at age 63.

William Lundigan

➦In 1914....actor William Lundigan was born in Syracuse NY.

He began as an adolescent announcer for a hometown radio station in a building owned by his father. He spent thirteen years as announcer before being discovered by a Universal film executive in 1937.  When big screen roles dried up in the mid-50′s he returned to announcing as host of TV’s dramatic anthology Climax, and Shower of Stars, on which he did commercials for the sponsor Chrysler. He also starred in the 1959 TV series Men into Space.

He died of heart failure Dec 20, 1975 at age 61.

➦In 1928....singer/radio-TV host Vic Damone was born in Brooklyn. He entered the talent search on CBS Radio’s Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts and won in April 1947. This led to his becoming a regular on Godfrey’s show. By mid-1947, Damone had signed a contract with Mercury Records. In 1948, he got his own weekly CBS radio show, Saturday Night Serenade. In January 1950 he made his first of several guest appearances on Ed Sullivan‘s Toast of the Town, including a duet with future TV hostess Dinah Shore. Over the next thirty years he became a regular featured guest on every major variety series on network television.

He died Feb. 11, 2018 from complications of respiratory illness at age 89.

➦In 1955…Monitor debuted on the NBC Radio Network. The weekend program "Monitor," the brainchild of NBC radio and television network president Sylvester "Pat" Weaver, began its 19½-year run on NBC Network Radio. The initial broadcast lasted eight hours. After an introduction by Weaver, news headlines from Dave Garroway and a routine by Bob and Ray, Garroway cued a music remote featuring live jazz by Howard Rumsey and the Lighthouse All-Stars at the Lighthouse Café in Hermosa Beach, California.