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The Jacobs Media Blog

Our founder, Fred Jacobs, offers insights into the latest trends in broadcasting and digital media.

Jay Kernis: 5 Things I Learned in Television that (Public) Radio Should Know

April 29, 2016

Jay Kernis is NPR’s former SVP/Programming but has gone back to television. He’s now producer for CBS News’ “Sunday Morning,” and creates segments featuring some of the world’s top newsmakers and celebrities. This week on “Guest List,” Jay give us his “5 Things I’ve Learned In Television That (Public) Radio Should Know.” It’s a good one.

No “Mulligans” for Morning Shows

by Fred Jacobs · April 28, 2016

After comedian Margaret Cho bombed during a standup routine, Jerry Seinfeld gave her a second chance – with the same audience. In radio, there are no “mulligans” – the pressure to be great every break is what makes real-time personality radio a high wire-no net act. Some thoughts on the topic in today’s post:

Why Aren’t You Wearing An Apple Watch?

by Fred Jacobs · April 27, 2016

Happy birthday to the Apple Watch, a gadget in search of a purpose. Techsurvey stakeholders saw this coming, as wearables struggle for mass market success – that is, except fitness wearables. We have fresh data, a revealing video, and other observations about whether smartwatches will ever become “the next big thing.”

Did Stephen Colbert Just Blow Out His PD?

by Fred Jacobs · April 26, 2016

To turn around sagging ratings, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert has fired their “showrunner” – their PD – and hired a TV/morning show specialist. Even great personalities need outstanding programmers at the helm. Here are some insights about the value of a great PD.

7 Lessons Radio Can Learn From The Untimely Passing Of Prince

by Fred Jacobs · April 25, 2016

Prince’s untimely death last week was another reminder to radio about the importance of preparation and seizing the moment. Here are 7 lessons for radio from Prince’s passing that can help programmers and managers navigate these challenging waters…for next time. Because there will most certainly be a next time.

Dick Kernen: 5 New Skills That Broadcasting Schools Are Now Teaching

April 22, 2016

It used to be that if you wanted to become a great DJ, you went to broadcasting school to learn how to run a tight board, use good grammar, and edit audiotape. Today, the bar’s been raised and new skills for excelling in radio are essential. Dick Kernen has been with the Specs Howard School for 4+ decades and talks about 5 new skills that are paramount for succeeding in radio.

Facebook, the Media Monster

by Fred Jacobs · April 21, 2016

No one disputes the reach of Facebook, but to think of it as just a “social network” minimizes its impact. Facebook has become a powerful media brand. Fresh data from Techsurey12 shows its robust “cume” and “time spent socializing. Whether it’s for Donald Trump or WMMR, Facebook has become an essential marketing tool for vital brands.

Can You Solve This Classic Rock Puzzle?

by Fred Jacobs · April 20, 2016

Major media and entertainment companies like Lionsgate, Netflix, and Amazon are cutting mega deals with ’60s Pop and Classic Rock franchises. They’re cashing in on Baby Boomer appeal that translates into big money. So why do Classic Rock and Classic Hits radio stations run away from this iconic music?

“There’s no innovation in radio”

by Fred Jacobs · April 19, 2016

Our “Radio’s Most Innovative” initiative takes to the stage at the NAB, featuring three industry luminaries whose ideas and organizations are transforming radio. In a world where “innovate or die” has become a given, Emmis’ Jeff Smulyan, NPR’s Loren Mayor, & the National Radio Talent System’s Dan Vallie will discuss what it takes to instill a culture of innovation inside any organization or company. Here’s the story:

Google is Now Officially in the Podcasting Game

by Seth Resler · April 18, 2016

Google has launched a new podcast directory as part of Google Play Music. Will it be a game changer for podcast listening?

Radio’s 20% Solution

by Paul Jacobs · April 18, 2016

People often ask about how my brother Paul and I define our roles. Actually, it’s simple. I’m in programming and he’s in sales. And in today’s guest post, Paul focuses his attention on how radio sales organizations need to get their heads around the digital space. It’s about a combination of expectations, training, and culture. This one’s a must read for every radio station sales organization.

Josh Miely: The 5 Things Every Radio Professional Should Know About The NAB Podcasts

April 15, 2016

The radio broadcasting industry is changing at a fast rate of speed. The NAB has started a new podcast series, focusing on some of the big issues facing broadcasters. Josh Miely talks about NAB Podcasts and how they benefit broadcasters on this week’s “Guest List.”

We Have Everything – So Now What?

by Fred Jacobs · April 14, 2016

As 2016 rolls on, it is becoming clearer that consumers own the gadgets and devices they need, they’ve signed up for their favorite social media sites, and they’ve downloaded cool apps. Now it’s time for content creators and media outlets to step up and focus on creating great user experiences – or the UX. Here’s are some thoughts about how to make that happen.

How the Sharing Economy Could Disrupt Radio Voiceover Talent

by Seth Resler · April 13, 2016

New “sharing economy” companies like Uber and AirBnB are dramatically disrupting established businesses. Could these crowdsourcing startups also disrupt radio? Maybe they already have…

Has Pandora Overplayed Its Hand?

by Fred Jacobs · April 12, 2016

Last week, Pandora liberally quoted a new Edison Research study, making a case that AM/FM usage is being heavily eroded by streaming radio, and that drivers incessantly punch buttons when AM/FM radio plays commercials. We have new data from our Techsurvey12 that tells a different story. Here’s a first look:

If It’s Thursday, We Must Be Streaming The Beatles

by Fred Jacobs · April 11, 2016

Since the Beatles catalog was released for streaming 100 days ago, the metrics are amazing. They show the power of the Fab Four 50+ years since the British Invasion took place. And they show the impact of Classic Rock on radio audiences around the globe. Check out this cool infographic from Spotify.

Buzz Knight: 5 Qualities We Look for When We Hire Radio Talent

April 8, 2016

It’s been a paradoxical time for radio. Many DJs and personalities are on the beach. Yet, making a great personality hire is always a challenge. In this week’s edition of “The Guest List,” Greater Media’s Buzz Knight shares his thoughts about the 5 key ingredients to look for when hiring talent.

Podcasts A Go-Go

by Fred Jacobs · April 7, 2016

For traditional media, podcasting holds the promise of expanding content, growing revenue, and increasing audience. The New York Times smells opportunity with podcasting, recently launching a new division. In today’s post, we talk about why radio companies are perfectly positioned to do the same thing.

Radio: $0 Down, $0 A Month

by Fred Jacobs · April 6, 2016

Last week, SoundCloud jumped into the monthly subscription business, joining Pandora, Spotify, Tidal, Apple, and many others. Within this media mélange, broadcast radio has distinct, marketable, differentiating advantages. It’s time to tell that story.

Where’s Radio?

by Fred Jacobs · April 5, 2016

A new Business Insider reader survey asks about the technology consumers want in their cars. There’s just one problem – they left out radio. Today’s post is focused on radio’s top-of-mind awareness problem in the auto business.

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