Talk Radio
Another top-tier departure rocks MediaWorks
MediaWorks’ news boss Dallas Gurney has resigned, soon after the sudden departure of the chief executive who appointed him. It leaves a leadership void at the broadcaster at a tricky time and it casts…
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Mediawatch for 19 March 2023
Polls and policy bonfire create climate contradiction; a muted media response to March 15; apology; talk radio outbursts spark apology. Audio
Today FM's Gurney: Dallas cowboy - or talk radio saviour?
Before its launch, the boss of new talk station Today FM promised a new approach eschewing anger and antagonism just for the sake of engagement. The first fortnight's been a mix of some of that - as… Audio
New talk station offers new approach - but also same old bluster
MediaWorks launched its latest talk radio network this week - Today FM - promising a constructive approach in contrast with its predecessors and its rivals. It sounds like an upgrade, but there’s… Audio
Talkback toxicity problem bigger than Banks, say critics
After the sacking of John Banks for racist blurts on air last week, critics are questioning the health of today’s talkback radio. It pulls a crowd and airs important issues, but can the bosses and the… Audio
Banks’ blurts bring boot from broadcaster
MediaWorks has replaced former politician John Banks as a talkback host and apologised for his comments condemning "stone age" Maori culture and warning "these people will be coming through your… Audio
Merv’s moment & Paula’s callers - politicos on talk radio
One political player made headlines this week calling in to talk radio posing as someone else - while MP Paula Bennett was handed the mic on a talk radio network for the week. Audio
Donald Trump's 'bonkers' week in US politics
It's been yet another big week in US politics, with Donald Trump capping things off with a rambling, vitriolic speech in the wake of his impeachment acquittal. US correspondent Karen Kasler has been… Audio
Digging deep to fill the void
The Christmas / New Year news drought leaves media desperate for stories and talking points, often scraping social media for content and conflict. Mediawatch looks at some of the stuff that rose from… Audio
Cycle of outrage called out on talkback
To pump up interest in its transport policy the National Party spoon-fed the media part of it: police fining cyclists who spurn cycleways. But the prospect of Bike Force Raptor backfired when callers… Audio
Further fallout from Alan Jones and 'sock-gate' comments
Lots of listeners heard Alan Jones’s violent verbiage directed at Jacinda Ardern last week on the air in Australia, but the worst of it only hit headlines this week. Will the outcry run the… Audio
Making plans for Leighton
Veteran broadcaster Leighton Smith will step down from his radio show after a third of a century on the air -- but only one year from now. Newstalk ZB certainly believes in giving its listeners plenty… Audio