This puts any and all speculation to rest: Laura Ingraham, the most listened-to woman in political talk radio, and Talk Radio Network Enterprises have announced a multi-year extension of their radio syndication venture, continuing their five-year business relationship. Mark Masters CEO of TRNE says, “We are excited and proud to continue syndicating The Laura Ingraham Show. Laura’s unique brand of conservative wit and wisdom, along with her searing analysis of pop culture resonates with a wide and diverse audience. Given her proven track record in the industry, Laura’s star will continue to rise for many years to come.”
The Laura Ingraham Show is ranked as the 5th largest syndicated show according to Talkers Magazine with over 300 affiliates nationwide. Ingraham is currently heard in 24 of the top 25 metro markets and 44 of the top 50 metro markets. TRNE will be announcing several new affiliates in the coming weeks.
As she begins her eighth year in talk radio, Ingraham noted, “This is a critical time for our country both politically and culturally, and I am thrilled to continue my daily conversation with my listeners coast-to-coast. I feel like I’m just getting warmed up.” Remarking on the rapidly changing radio landscape, Ingraham said, “TRNE, led by Mark Masters, has demonstrated a clear talent for fostering and growing innovative talk radio programming, and I look forward to continuing our successful collaboration. Americans want and deserve smart, funny and irreverent talk, and I intend to keep giving it to them.”
RBR/TVBR observation: Ingraham re-upping is good news for the radio business as she is the one of top recognized female talk talents in the business. Fox News Channel recognizes it as she is a regular contributor. She has the personality, knowledge and a credible wit to match. RBR’s recommendation is market her heavily and try to get her on the road as Fox News once did with the late Tony Snow with his radio program. Affiliates loved when Snow did his program at their station but more importantly the local market listeners loved meeting Tony face to face. That builds talent brand loyalty. No talk host today has done this except Snow and this marketing / promotion is much needed today in radio. TRN can be a bigger winner during this political season – as talk radio is not hot, it is the talk radio talent that is hot. Road Trip.
