EPISODE SUMMARY: Mike McVay is a 40+ year radio veteran with expertise spanning content creation broadcasting, network syndication, talent coaching, artist development, and media strategy design. He has held numerous roles including EVP of Cumulus and Westwood One and is the President of McVay Media Consulting. McVay shares the story of his legendary career. 

McVay will be among those honored this fall as Giants of Broadcasting by the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation at the 2024 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony on November 12th at Gotham Hall in New York City.

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to Mike McVay about:

1. Growing up outside of Pittsburgh in a railroad family and deciding to do radio from an early age
2. Getting his first gig at WHJB at 15 then dropping out of college and moving to West Virginia to become a program director
3. His desire for career growth and to control his own destiny and how that attracted him to programming
4. Jumping around to several cities and stations before landing in LA where he was surrounded by legendary air talent whom he learned from
5. Bouncing around more and becoming a station manager and GM
6. Having a supportive wife and family who allowed them to move around but also supported him and founded McVay Media with him along with Charlie Cook
7. The explosive success of McVay Media and recruiting top consultants to handle over 200 stations eventually growing to over 25 employees worldwide
8. Buying his first radio station and the stress of owning multiple stations
9. Joining Cumulus Media and Westwood One as EVP of Content and Programming and advising over 500 stations
10. How he reacted to management shakeups, the evolution of Cumulus, and stepping away to focus back on McVay Media which became a family affair
11. The many industry organizations he is a part of, including the Country Radio Broadcasters Board, Alliance for Women in Media Board, and the Radio Committee for St. Jude's Children's Hospital and Research Center
12. The importance of professionalism, personal happiness, and giving back, and being a good person

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: Mike McVay is President of McVay Media Consulting. Working globally as a full-service consultant in the areas of Content Creation, Program Consultation, Syndication, Digital Delivery, Production & Imaging, Podcasting, Talent Coaching, and Media Training. He was most recently the Executive Vice President of Content and Programming for Cumulus Media and Westwood One.

McVay is a 40+ year programmer with national and local management, ownership, sales, major market programming, and major market on-air experience. Mike has owned and operated radio stations in multiple markets. He is a partner in Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Network with experience in curating Podcasts for Westwood One, NatGeo and Disney+. He has also developed and launched several highly successful nationally syndicated programs.

He is a 2021 Inductee to the West Virginia Broadcasters Hall of Fame. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation, The Country Radio Broadcasters, the Radio Committee for St. Jude Children’s Hospital and Research Center, and is a voting member of the Country Music Association as well as The Academy of Country Music.

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Donny Osmund
• John Sally
• Jim Brickman
• Doug Stefan
• Mark McGrath
• Stephen A Smith
• Soledad O’Brien
• Jean Chatsky
• Cowboy Phil
• Ed Saloman
• Bob Pittman
• John Rook
• Charlie Cook
• Jimmy Fox
• Rich Brother Robin
• Jack Armstrong
• Don Steele
• Machine Gun Kelly
• Nancy Plum
• Joe Nasty
• Dave Sebastian
• Charlie Tuna
• Barbara Streisand
• Gene Simmons
• Brooke Shields
• Stephen Bishop
• George Burns
• George Francis
• Tom Wilson
• Bernie Ditman
• Doris McVay
• Jim and Tom Imbrescia
• Larry Robinson
• Larry Pollack
• Terry Jacobs
• Lou Dickey
• John Pinch
• Jim West
• George and Reg
• Jay Albright
• Bob Moody
• Jerry King
• Harv Blaine
• Chris Elliott
• Val Garis
• Greg Galepsy
• Jan Jeffries
• Dwight Douglas
• Holland Cook
• Jim Glass
• Bob McNeil
• Daniel Anstandig
• Sue Wilson
• Jim Long
• David Rogerson
• Chris Burns
• Steve Smith
• Barry Gerber
• Chesley Maddox
• Kent Burkhardt
• Lee Abrams
• Greg Gillespie
• Dave Lang
• John Tesh
• Tom Pullman
• Justin Chase
• Greg Strassel
• Mary Berner
• Bob Walker
• Dave Milner
• Brian Phillips
• Ryan Kershner
• Jai Kershner
• Nikki Lanigan
• Jimmy Lanigan
• Bing Crosby
• Walter Cronkite
• Al Roker
• Christine Baranski
• Steve Jones
• Chris Forgy
• Jason Bailey

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world- class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown’s Audio Architecture is one of the only commercial libraries that is built exclusively for radio spots to provide the right music for radio commercials. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now & Then, Hey, Morton, StudioTexter, The Rooster Show Prep, and AmeriCountry. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: IEX: Boxes and Lines and Molecular Moments.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Instagram: 

instagram.com/benztownradio

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review! 

EPISODE SUMMARY: Steve Jones is the multi-award-winning President and CEO of Skyview Media. He shares his lifelong passion for news and his journey to become a Giant of Broadcasting.

Jones will be among those honored this fall as Giants of Broadcasting by the Library of American Broadcasting Foundation at the 2024 Giants of Broadcasting & Electronic Arts luncheon and awards ceremony on November 12th at Gotham Hall in New York City.

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to Steve Jones about:

1. Growing up in Flushing, Queens, and getting involved in journalism and true crime at a young age while listening to police scanners
2. Calling nightclubs as an intern at WPIX and doing mornings at WLIR after several station flips
3. Joining ABC radio, the challenges of working at a national news network, and the acquisition of ABC by Disney
4. The transition from ABC News to Skyview Networks
5. Navigating the changing news industry
6. The importance of supporting independent content creators
7. The Impact of journalism in today's media landscape
8. The value of mentors and the life-changing work of the Broadcasters Foundation of America

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: As President and Chief Executive Officer of Skyview Networks, Steve Jones is responsible with leading Skyview’s growth as a sales and technology company serving the broadcast radio and digital audio industries. Since joining Skyview Networks in April 2019.  Jones has led Skyview’s expansion from 5,000 radio station relationships to more than 12,500.  These new business relationships range across news, weather, sports and music programming heard by millions of listeners who are prized by America’s top advertisers.

Previously, at The Walt Disney Company, Jones served as Vice President and General Manager for ABC Radio leading strategic planning, business development, programming and operations for ABC-branded audio content—covering news, entertainment, lifestyle and sports. During this period, ABC News Radio received dozens of awards for excellence in journalism and was the most listened to commercial radio service in America. With Jones in this role, Disney/ABC entered into a partnership with Skyview Networks in 2014 to create a stand-alone audio business for ABC News.

Jones first joined ABC News as a writer in 1986 and was an early digital leader as Vice President of Programming and Operations for ABCNEWS.com, where he oversaw all content and production. During this time, Jones launched the first regularly scheduled webcast by a network, oversaw the launch of interactive web programming and co-produced ABC’s online millennium coverage along with other special event programming. Under Jones’ leadership, the ABCNEWS.com team won multiple awards including an Edward R. Murrow Award for “Best Network News” website and a Peabody Award for ABCNEWS.com’s coverage of the 2001 terror attacks. Before his many roles inside ABC, Jones also worked as a radio newscaster, disc jockey, and television reporter.

Throughout his career, Jones has been honored with multiple awards and recognized for his accomplishments. As a writer and producer for ABC News, his work won two Writers Guild of America (WGA) Awards and an Overseas Press Club Award. Additionally, he has been included on Radio Ink’s annual “40 Most Powerful” broadcast executives list (2017, 2018, 2023), named “News Executive of the Year” twice by Radio & Records (2005, 2007), received the Ward L. Quaal Leadership Award from the Broadcasters Foundation of America (2017) and the First Amendment Service Award from the Radio Television News Directors Foundation (2017).

Jones is a 2010 Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism Fellow in the Sulzberger Executive Leadership Program and often speaks about media strategy for the audio business. He is on the Board of Directors for the Broadcasters Foundation of America and is on the Board of Trustees at Adelphi University, from which he possesses an undergraduate degree.

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Andrew Kalb
• Peter Jennings
• Lacey Peterson
• John Ogle
• Alex Hayes
• Hilly Crystal
• Mark Simone
• Rush Limbaugh
• Sean Hannity
• Alan Combs
• Ray White
• Dennis McNamara
• Jim Kerr
• Meg Griffin
• Vin Scelsa
• Dennis McNamara
• Joan Jett
• Billy Idol
• Kurt Loder
• Ben Manila
• Larry the Duck
• Seymour Stein
• Howard Stern
• Nancy Abramson
• Bob Waugh
• Donna Donna
• Mel Karmazin
• Fareed Suleiman
• Jay Thomas
• Robin Williams
• Chip Cipolla
• Robin Quivers
• Gary Delabate
• Pat Evans
• Tim McCarthy
• Scott Herman
• Merrilee Cox

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world- class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown’s Audio Architecture is one of the only commercial libraries that is built exclusively for radio spots to provide the right music for radio commercials. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now & Then, Hey, Morton, StudioTexter, The Rooster Show Prep, and AmeriCountry. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: IEX: Boxes and Lines and Molecular Moments.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Instagram: 

instagram.com/benztownradio

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review! 

EPISODE SUMMARY: Curtis LeGeyt is the president and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters. He shares how his background in business, politics and law has shaped his career in broadcasting and discusses the challenges and opportunities broadcasters face in Washington, D.C.

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to Curtis LeGeyt about:

1. How his passion for journalism, public service and politics led him to Cornell University Law School and Capitol Hill
2. His experience working on the Obama Campaign and the Senate Judiciary Committee
3. The value of over-preparation and confidence in your work
4. Becoming President and CEO of NAB
5. NAB's advocacy efforts, including coordinating with local stations, policymakers and the public to ensure the availability and quality of broadcast programming
6. The challenges and rewards of bipartisan collaboration
7. The unique environment of Washington, D.C.
8. His advice for young people interested in a career in broadcasting and his thoughts on the future

And more!

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: 
Curtis LeGeyt is the president and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters. In this role, he serves as the chief advocate for America’s free, local television and radio stations and their network partners. He previously served as the chief operating officer of the association before assuming his current role in January 2022. LeGeyt also served as the executive vice president, Government Relations, from 2015-2020.

As president and CEO, LeGeyt is leading NAB’s charge for policies and innovations that enable the availability of high-quality local broadcast programming to all consumers. He and his team successfully advocate for policies that level the playing field between local stations and Big Tech companies, prevent harmful new regulations that hinder broadcasters’ ability to serve their communities, and promote the vital and trusted local journalism broadcasters provide.

LeGeyt has been featured in Washingtonian magazine as one of Washington, D.C.’s 500 most influential people, named “Radio Executive of the Year” by Radio Ink magazine and as a top lobbyist by The Hill newspaper. LeGeyt is also a member of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Association Committee of 100, which brings together trade association CEOs to build partnerships and discuss issues facing their industries.

Prior to joining NAB in 2011, LeGeyt served as the senior counsel to then-Senate Judiciary Chairman Patrick Leahy (VT), advising the chairman and committee on intellectual property, antitrust and First Amendment issues. Previously, LeGeyt practiced law at Howrey LLP, where he focused on antitrust litigation and merger reviews. LeGeyt began his career as a management consultant for Putnam Associates and worked on the staff of the 2008 Obama for America presidential campaign.

LeGeyt serves on the boards of directors of the NAB Leadership Foundation, the Broadcasters Foundation of America and Tracy’s Kids, a nonprofit helping children with cancer.

He also serves on the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention’s Executive Committee, and is an alumnus of Leadership Music, a Nashville-based program that fosters community and collaboration among music industry leaders.

LeGeyt received his J.D. from Cornell University Law School, and his B.A. from Providence College in quantitative economics where he serves on its National Board of Overseers. He resides in Washington, D.C., with his wife Kacey and their three children.

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Barack Obama
• Bob Pittman
• Ted Cruz
• Ed Markey
• Gordon Smith
• Patrick Leahy
• Bernie Sanders
• Mike Johnson
• Scott McCarthy
• Tim McCarthy

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world-class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles, New York, London and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Daily Dees Show, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now, AudioLogger, Audio Architecture, Radio Merch Shop, The Rooster Show Prep, AmeriCountry, and Benztown Swag Bank. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: The Making of: A National Geographic Podcast, Run It Again, Hot Chicken and Cage-Free Conversation with Byron Kennedy, and Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review! 

EPISODE SUMMARY: Johnjay Van Es is a radio host who alongside his partner Rich airs his show on over 20 stations across the country. He is also devoted to the community helping children in foster care and rescue animals through the LoveUp and LovePup foundations. He shares his journey from being a passionate radio enthusiast to becoming a successful radio host.
 

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to Johnjay Van Es about:

1. Growing up in Arizona and Mexico and his early passion for radio
2. His love for improv and comedy, and joining the Groundlings in L.A.
3. Challenges he’s faced in the workplace and how he manages creative control of the show
4. How his show took off following a shoutout from Rod Stewart
5. Forming a strong partnership with cohost, Rich, and how they worked through conflicts
6. How taking risks and following passion can lead to unexpected opportunities
7. His unique morning routine that involves a trampoline
8. Unforgettable on-air moments from his career
9. His involvement in the Love Up and Love Pup foundations
10.  And more!

And more!

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: 
As a child, Johnjay Van Es always dreamed of being on the radio. He applied for an internship at 91X in San Diego in 1990 and eventually started working in sales for a number of radio stations, but he never let go of his lifelong dream to be on the air.It wasn’t until 1996, after training with the LA-based improv troupe The Groundlings that he would get his first on-air job hosting a morning show on WKRQ in Cincinnati. After just three months on the air, he won the “Best of Cincinnati” award. After years of dominating the market in Cincinnati, Johnjay moved on to Houston, Texas and made his mark in the Country format.

A chance meeting in New Orleans found Rich teaming up with Johnjay. The beginning of The Johnjay and Rich era began in 2001 with their first show airing on KRQQ in Tucson. In 2006, the program moved to KISS-FM in Phoenix, Ariz., and was syndicated in select markets nationwide.

In 2014, the program joined Premiere Networks lineup of nationally syndicated programs. Airing Monday through Friday from 5 to 10 a.m. MT, The Johnjay & Rich Show is a non-stop blend of pop culture, news and events, welcoming a wide range of music artists, news makers and celebrities. Joined on-air by Kyle and Suzette, the show is a special brand of “reality radio,” in which listeners become an engaged and integral part of the program by interacting with the crew via all forms of social media -Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, Facebook, email and text messaging.The Johnjay & Rich Show is also available on iHeartRadio, iHeartMedia's free all-in-one streaming music and live radio service, and www.johnjayandrich.com.

In addition to hosting their daily radio program, Johnjay and Rich remain steadfastly connected to the community via the Johnjay and Rich #LoveUp Foundation, a non-profit organization that strives to improve the quality of life for the most vulnerable children in our communities, with a primary focus on children living in the foster care system. The foundation’s annual Christmas Wish program provides thousands of dollars’ worth of gifts to deserving families in need during the holiday season. Johnjay and Rich also raised funds for #LoveUp’s sister foundation, #LovePup, by hosting adoption and fundraising events. To date, more than 500 rescue dogs have found forever homes through #LovePup’s ongoing efforts.In addition to serving children and pets, the radio hosts raise thousands of dollars for other worthy causes including disaster relief efforts nationwide.

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Rich Berra
• Tracy Johnson
• Jeff and Jer
• Laura Kane
• Little Tommy
• Mike Halloran
• Kurt Warner
• Brenda Warner
• Brian Douglas
• Scott Shannon
• Scott Fisher
• Tim Russert
• Tony Robbins
• Fred Lewis
• Steve Smith
• John Peak
• Mark Costa
• Jimmy Steele
• Smokey Rivers
• Woody
• Bill Claproth
• Mike Marino
• Tommy Kramer
• Dennis Clark
• Bob Pittman
• Rich Bresler
• Elijah Warner
• Larry Fitzgerald
• Jordan Sparks
• Bruce Walton
• Fred Lewis
• Steve Smith
• Kimberly Hunt
• Jim Bryant
• Von Freeman
• Steve West
• Oz
• Larry Fitzgerald

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world-class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles, New York, London and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Daily Dees Show, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now, AudioLogger, Audio Architecture, Radio Merch Shop, The Rooster Show Prep, AmeriCountry, and Benztown Swag Bank. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: The Making of: A National Geographic Podcast, Run It Again, Hot Chicken and Cage-Free Conversation with Byron Kennedy, and Edelman Financial Engines’ Everyday Wealth.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Instagram: instagram.com/benztownradio

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review! 

In this episode of "Chachi Loves Everybody," host Dave "Chachi" Dennis welcomes Tony Coles, a highly influential figure in the broadcasting world, boasting over 35 years of industry experience. Tony takes listeners through his remarkable journey from humble beginnings in Ohio to becoming a top executive at iHeartMedia. Through engaging anecdotes and insightful commentary, Tony shares the highs and lows of his career, the impactful mentorship he received, and his dedication to fostering the next generation of industry leaders.

Tony recollects his early days in radio, the mentors who shaped his path, and his experiences across various legendary radio stations. He emphasizes the importance of relationships and continuous learning as fundamental to his success. Tony also delves into his work with the Black Information Network (BIN), detailing the innovative approaches taken during its launch amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and social unrest. He passionately discusses his involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, highlighting his commitment to leadership and mentoring.

Here are a few highlights from the episode: 

• Tony Coles reflects on his radio career and success
• A father's tough love and its lifelong impact
• Journey from small market radio to management
• The impact of Dave Robbins on Tony's career
• From Ohio to Fort Wayne
• From small town to big city
• Embracing fear and learning from failure
• Tony’s journey through radio stations and leadership roles
• Transitioning from programming to leadership in radio broadcasting
• His rise from small town to overseeing hundreds of stations
• Balancing priorities and learning in high-stakes leadership
• Launching a news network for the Black community amid challenges
• The importance of mentorship and community engagement in broadcasting

1. Tony Coles

2. Rhona (GM)

3. Dave Robbins

4. Bob Pittman

5. John Sykes

6. Kurt Johnson

7. Matt Martin

8. Brian Olsen

9. Chris Berry

10. Heidi Raphael

11. Darren Davis

12. Jeff Smulyan

13. George Floyd

14. Ed Kranf

15. Steve Rivers

16. Rich Bresler

17. Greg Ashlock

18. Chris Berry

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review! 

In this episode of "Chachi Loves Everybody," Dave "Chachi" Dennis sits down with broadcasting titan Steve Newberry. With a career spanning over four decades, Newberry shares remarkable stories and valuable lessons learned from his journey in the radio industry. From acquiring his first radio station at 21 to navigating the complexities of the NAB and leading innovative ventures at Quu, Newberry's experiences are both inspirational and educational.

Newberry delves into his early career, recounting tales of entrepreneurial grit and the supportive mentorship he received from industry giants. He reflects on the challenges and triumphs of growing Commonwealth Broadcasting Corporation and the invaluable lessons from his tenure at NAB, including his relationships with influential figures like Gordon Smith. Listeners gain a deep understanding of the strategic decisions and leadership qualities that have defined Newberry's exceptional career. The episode also explores Q’s groundbreaking work in enhancing listener experiences through visual radio technology, highlighting the future of broadcasting in the era of digital innovation.

Here are a few highlights from the episode: 

• Steve Newberry's journey from small-town radio to industry titan
• Entrepreneurial struggles, family support, and lessons learned
• Building a radio station from scratch in Kentucky
• A partnership with a former governor leads to 35 radio stations
• Lessons learned from managing radio stations in small markets
• Navigating leadership roles and mentorship in the NAB
• Leadership and trust in the broadcasting industry
• From consultant to full-time EVP at NAB navigating political relationships and advocacy in Washington DC
• Managing construction costs and team dynamics
• Transitioning from NAB to CEO of Quu amid COVID-19 challenges
• Enhancing radio ads with visuals for better retention
• The vital role of radio in community safety and healing
• The importance of mentorship and paying it forward
• A tribute to leadership and radio industry excellence

People Mentioned in this Episode

1. Antonin Scalia
2. Bill McElvey
3. Brayton Jones
4. Caroline Beasley
5. Carrie Newberry
6. Charles Warfield
7. Chris Arnellis
8. Chuck Anderson
9. Dale Thornhill
10. Dan Mason
11. David Kennedy
12. Doug Combs
13. Ed Christian
14. Eddie Fritz
15. Freddie Travis
16. Gene Collins
17. Gordon Smith
18. Howard Berman
19. Jack Sander
20. James Newberry
21. Jeff Smulyan
22. Jim Spector
23. Jinny Morris
24. Joe D'Angelo
25. John David
26. John Dilley
27. Lou Dickey
28. Lyle Lovett
29. Mark Mays
30. Mel Carmezon
31. Michael Fiorelli
32. Mike Novak
33. Mitch McConnell
34. Randall Mays
35. Randy Gravlee
36. Russ Withers
37. Ruth Bader Ginsburg
38. Senator Rand Paul

Enjoyed this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody? Let us know by leaving a review! 

Brad Samuel shares his journey from an enthusiastic 15-year-old intern in radio to a respected media consultant and agency owner. His stories are filled with lessons on determination, embracing rejection, and the importance of pursuing one's passion relentlessly.

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody:

• Interning with Bruce Walton and falling in love with radio
• Owning your media assets as a talent
• The art of “hunting and gathering”
• Innovating and Managing Radio Disney AM 1240
• Working with Roy Laughlin, Charlie Rahilly, and Chachi at Clear Channel
• Roy Laughlin as his mentor
• Being of service and graciousness in the studio
• Take every rejection and failure as a chance to improve your skills.
• Working together with different skills is important for success.
• Looking for new challenges and chances for growth in all aspects of life.

About this episode’s guest:

Brad Samuel is a seasoned professional in the media industry with rich experience that spans various roles and notable companies. Having started his journey with an internship under the mentorship of the legendary Bruce Walton, Brad has carved a niche for himself in media. His career highlights include managerial positions at Radio Disney, LSM for extra Sports Los Angeles, GSM for KFI, and GM for KYSR 98.7. In San Diego, he served as the Director of Sales for iHeartMedia's eight stations. In 2010, Brad took a significant leap and founded Epic Media, where he consults for diverse sectors including restaurants, casinos, and Fintech, represents media talent and influencers, and advises audio networks and digital agencies.

• People Mentioned:
• Bruce Walton
• Rod Luck
• Scotty Mash
• Mike Stafford
• Roy Laughlin
• Charlie Rahilly
• Randy Michaels
• Roger Hedgecock
• Doctor Laura
• Rush Limbaugh
• David G. Hall
• Greg Ashlock
• John Hogan
• Amy Nzich
• Kathy Begleley
• Rick Dees
• Ryan Seacrest
• Damian Lewis
• Ellen Kay
• Magic Johnson
• Susan Carris
• Debbie Wagner
• R Dub
• Jhani Kaye
• Bob Bollinger
• Tim Cook
• Magic Johnson
• Steve Jobs
• Roy Disney
• Walt Disney
• Bob Bolinger
• Randy Michaels
• Greg Ashlock
• Jamie White
• Danny Bonaduce
• John Kobylt
• Ken Chiampou

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In this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi Denes speaks to Mike Hulvey, a broadcasting luminary who has shaped the industry with his commitment to community service and mentorship. Mike discusses his career trajectory, the impact of his early influences, and his passion for developing future broadcasting talent through his summer mentoring program.

Mike takes us through his journey from being awe-struck by radio broadcasts at a young age to eventually climbing the ranks of broadcast management and leadership. With stories from his tenure at Neuhoff Communications and the moments that led to his success, we are given a masterclass in career growth and seizing opportunities. The conversation also delves into his vision for the future of radio and the significance of local content engagement. His recent appointment as CEO of the Radio Advertising Bureau (RAB) and his intent to enhance the national talent system promises an invigorating era for broadcasters and advertisers alike.

• Mike Hulvey recounts his progress from participating in sports broadcasting at a young age to leading major broadcasting operations.
• Coming from a community of successful media personalities 
• Starting out in radio at the same as Dick Van Dyke and Gene Hackman
• Reps Reps Reps 
• The excitement and pressure of becoming the Neuhoff Communication manager without any management experience 
• His story of overcoming dyslexia and honing different learning methods reinforces the power of perseverance and adaptability.
• The transition of Neuhoff Communications' ownership and Mike’s dedication to ensuring its legacy continues with capable hands.
• As the new CEO of the RAB, Mike aims to revitalize future broadcaster engagement and training.
• Emphasizing local content and relationships with advertisers is key to radio's longevity and evolution in the digital age.
• Always say YES to opportunities even when it doesn't make sense 
• Neuhoff Media Sports Media Camp and mentoring young future broadcasters

People Mentioned: 

• Dan Rooney
• Dick Van Dyke 
• Gene Hackman
• Jerry Van Dyke
• Bobby Short 
• Irving Azoff
• Jeff Neuhoff
• Erica Farber 
• Beth Neuhoff
• Steve Wexler 
• Wayne Cornell (Radio Wayne)
• Jim Collins 

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EPISODE SUMMARY: Lyndsey Parker is a veteran music journalist who has held roles at Yahoo, SiriusXM, and Warner Music, and interviewed numerous artists. She shares her experiences meeting artists, hosting shows, writing articles, and immersing herself in pop culture.

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to Lyndsey Parker about:

1. Growing up as a valley girl in the San Fernando Valley
2. Her avant-garde clothing style and how her mom supported her expression growing up
3. Exploring the LA music scene and her early music influences including Duran Duran, The Monkees, and The Beatles and later MTV
4. Creating a fanzine and going from interviewing budding music stars to Gene Simmons
5. Working at Launch.com before getting bought by Yahoo where she interviewed many major artists and witnessed innovations in digital music
6. Explore her passion for music and entertainment as a host on the radio host and on AXS TV 
7. Her fascination with reality TV and all things pop culture
8. Writing the book 'Permanent Damage' and getting the opportunity to collaborate with Miss Mercy and share her incredible life story
9. Juggling multiple jobs while working for Yahoo for years

And more!

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: Lyndsey Parker is an award-winning music journalist. You may know her as the host of WMG’s successful podcast series and Roku television show ‘Totally ’80s,’  longtime music editor at Yahoo Entertainment, or the former host of the SiriusXM radio show ‘Volume West’ with Chad Smith and Davey Havok.

Considered an expert in music and pop culture, she is a She Rocks Awards honoree, a four-time Southern California Journalism Awards winner, and an Online Journalism Award and National A&E Journalism Awards nominee. She is also the co-author of the autobiography of legendary muse and former GTOs member Miss Mercy,Permanent Damage: Memoirs of an Outrageous Girl, and the author of Careless Memories of Strange Behavior: My Notorious Life as a Duran Duran Fan. 

Additionally, she has served as the managing editor at LAUNCH.com; is a recurring cast member of AXS TV’s The Top Ten Revealed and Music’s Greatest Mysteries; is a regular moderator at the Grammy Museum; and has appeared in Netflix’s The Show Must Go On: The Queen + Adam Lambert Story, A&E’s I Want My MTV, and various other documentaries. She has appeared as a music and reality TV expert on TV shows for numerous major networks, including MTV, CNN, Fox News, VH1′s Behind the Music, Lifetime, Fox 11′s Good Day L.A., CBS’s The Insider and KCAL morning news, and Spectrum News. She has written for NME, Mojo, Elle, MOJO, Rolling Stone, Los Angeles, and Guitar, among other publications. She also lost on Rock & Roll Jeopardy once.

She currently resides in Hollywood with her internet-unfamous cat Pussycow; Nagel, a white snake who has met David Coverdale; piles of records, books, and Hello Kitty and Pac-Man memorabilia; and a vintage television set that is always, always on. Her website, Lyndsanity!, is a catchall for her interviews, podcasts, media appearances, and other adventures she gets up to while obsessing over music and pop culture.

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Lady Gaga
• Taylor Swift
• Frank Zappa
• Moon Zappa
• Peter Frampton
• Cindy Lauper
• Alice Cooper
• Steve Martin
• George Burns
• Mickey Dolenz
• Noel Gallagher
• Andy Partridge
• Paul Weller
• Adam Schlesinger
• Rivers Cuomo
• Jeff Stein
• Kevin Godley
• George Harrison
• Frank Sinatra
• Kurt Cobain
• Colleen Fitzpatrick
• Gene Simmons
• Garth Brooks
• Elton John
• Boss Hogg
• John Spencer
• Vivian Westwood
• Cindi Lauper
• Dave Goldberg
• Sheryl Sandberg
• Bob Roback
• Dave DiMartino
• Brett Michaels
• Jay Leno
• Adele
• Amy Winehouse
• Kelly Clarkson
• Gary Clark
• Ian Rogers
• Carrie Underwood
• Adam Lambert
• Leonard Cohen
• Fred Bronson
• Ace Young
• Diana DiGarmo
• Shirley Halpern
• Randy Jackson
• Simon Cowell
• Paula Abdul
• Elvira
• Weird Al
• Ed Begley Jr
• Miss Mercy
• Chuck Berry
• Arthur Lee
• Aubrey Plaza

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world- class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Daily Dees Show, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now & Then, Hey, Morton!, Audio Architecture, StudioTexter, The Rooster Show Prep, AmeriCountry, and Benztown Swag Bank. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: The Making of: A National Geographic Podcast, IEX: Boxes and Lines, and Everyday Wealth.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Instagram: instagram.com/benztownradio

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EPISODE SUMMARY: Stew Redwine is the VP of Creative Services at Oxford Road and host of the Ad Infinitum Podcast. He shares the tips and tricks he’s learned from years of experience creating audio and video advertisements and his thoughts on the future of podcasting.

On this episode of Chachi Loves Everybody, Chachi talks to Stew Redwine about:

1. Growing up in Kansas City and cold calling producers to build out his network and get involved in film productions
2. Having kids and moving to LA for more on-set opportunities
3. Being in charge of an entire production for Sprint and maxing out credit cards to afford it
4. Working freelance at Oxford Road and the decision to go full-time
5. The process he goes through to pitch clients and help them find the right strategy
6. The difference between performance marketing and brand building
7. Why podcast advertising is so successful
8. The secret to a successful audio or TV ad
9. The Importance of Mnemonics and Sonic Branding
10. His advice for getting into podcasting and creative direction and thoughts on the future of the industry

And more!

ABOUT THIS EPISODE'S GUEST: This particular vintage of Redwine has a distinct creative flavor. Bright, complex, and down-to-earthy, an unforgettable blend of performance, brand, advertising history, fun, feels, with a hint of wizardry. Grown in Kansas City on direct response TV sets and professionally advertising aged to perfection in Southern California, Stew's been helping make the ads work at Oxford Road since the early days of podcasting. As an intentional transplants to SoCal, Stew and his family happen to agree with the description in Montalvo’s 1610 novel of California; it’s located most closely to Earthly Paradise. From the beaches, to hikes, to biking around their town, to museums, to demolition derby, they’re always adventuring together. And the more variety for this Redwine varietal means a little bit better understanding of more people and plenty more ideas to help make the ads work at Oxford Road where he is VP of Creative Services.

ABOUT THE PODCAST: Chachi Loves Everybody is brought to you by Benztown and hosted by the President of Benztown, Dave “Chachi” Denes. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the myths and legends of the radio industry.

PEOPLE MENTIONED:

• Scott Jolley
• Mel Graham
• Mike Churchill
• Steve Frankel
• Jordan Brady
• Guy Raz
• Ryan Tedder
• Dan Granger
• Bob Pittman
• Scott McDonnell
• Kraig Kichin
• Howard Stern
• Ellen K
• Rick Dees
• Jack Black
• Kurt Cobain
• Brian Cox

ABOUT BENZTOWN: Benztown is a leading international audio imaging, production library, voiceover, programming, podcasting, and jingle production company with over 3,000 affiliations on six different continents. Benztown provides audio brands and radio stations of all formats with end-to-end imaging and production, making high-quality sound and world- class audio branding a reality for radio stations of all market sizes and budgets. Benztown was named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 by Inc. magazine for five consecutive years as one of America’s Fastest-Growing Privately Held Companies. With studios in Los Angeles and Stuttgart, Benztown offers the highest quality audio imaging work parts for 23 libraries across 14 music and spoken word formats including AC, Hot AC, CHR, Country, Hip Hop and R&B, Rhythmic, Classic Hits, Rock, News/Talk, Sports, and JACK. Benztown provides custom VO and imaging across all formats, including commercial VO and copywriting in partnership with Yamanair Creative. Benztown Radio Networks produces, markets, and distributes high-quality programming and services to radio stations around the world, including: The Rick Dees Weekly Top 40 Countdown, The Daily Dees Show, The Todd-N-Tyler Radio Empire, Hot Mix, Sunday Night Slow Jams with R Dub!, Flashback, Top 10 Now & Then, Hey, Morton!, Audio Architecture, StudioTexter, The Rooster Show Prep, AmeriCountry, and Benztown Swag Bank. Benztown + McVay Media Podcast Networks produces and markets premium podcasts including: The Making of: A National Geographic Podcast, IEX: Boxes and Lines, and Everyday Wealth.

Web: benztown.com

Facebook: facebook.com/benztownradio

Twitter: @benztownradio

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/benztown

Instagram: instagram.com/benztownradio

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