Barrett Media's Top 20 Major Market News/Talk Radio Afternoon Shows of 2025: A Comprehensive Overview
Unveiling the Top Radio Shows of the Year
Barrett Media is thrilled to present its annual Top 20 Major Market News/Talk Radio Afternoon Shows of 2025, a celebration of the best in the industry. This year's list showcases the top radio shows that captivated audiences and made a significant impact in the major markets. But here's where it gets controversial... Is your favorite show among the winners? And this is the part most people miss... The voting process is not without its complexities, and we're here to shed light on the criteria and the people behind the scenes.
The Winners: A Celebration of Excellence
Mitch Albom of WJR 760 in Detroit takes the top spot, marking his first category win since Barrett Media started this series in 2022. With a 10-point lead over the Von Haessler Doctrine, Albom's show secured five first-place votes, showcasing its exceptional quality and impact. Congratulations to Mitch, WJR PD Ann Thomas, and the entire team for their well-deserved recognition.
The Voting Process: A Collaborative Effort
The Top 20 list is the result of a collaborative effort involving forty program directors and corporate executives from radio's top broadcasting companies. These industry experts, representing Audacy, iHeart, Cumulus, Cox Media Group, and more, bring diverse perspectives and insights to the voting process. Their criteria include the 'ear test,' originality, multi-platform impact, ratings success, clearance (national shows), and industry buzz.
The Criteria: A Balanced Approach
The voting criteria are carefully balanced to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. The 'ear test' ensures the shows are engaging and appealing to a wide audience. Originality and multi-platform impact highlight the shows' creativity and ability to reach listeners across various platforms. Ratings success and clearance indicate the shows' popularity and ability to attract a large audience. Industry buzz reflects the shows' influence and recognition within the radio community.
The Shows: A Diverse Lineup
The Top 20 list features a diverse range of shows, each with its unique style and approach. From Ryan Ermanni and Dominic Carter to LA's Afternoon News and Tony Ortiz & Tracey McCaskill, the shows offer something for every listener. Drivetime with DeRusha and James Parker's Cats & Crosby are among the notable mentions, with close battles for 10th place and a strong showing from independent outlets.
The Process: A Transparent Journey
The Barrett Media Top 20 series is a transparent process, with a detailed schedule of upcoming releases. After the Top 20 series ends in March, a video discussion will be recorded, providing insights into the entire process. This video will be posted on the Barrett Media YouTube page, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the voting process and the people who make it all possible.
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To stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox, sign up for our newsletter. Jason Barrett, the Founder and CEO of Barrett Media, is a seasoned professional with a rich background in radio programming and consulting. His expertise and insights make Barrett Media a trusted source for media professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Contact Us: Connect with Barrett Media
For more information and to connect with Barrett Media, visit our website, follow us on social media, or reach out directly. We're here to celebrate the best in radio and provide valuable insights into the industry. So, whether you agree or disagree, we invite you to join the conversation and share your thoughts in the comments.
The Full Schedule: Upcoming Releases
- Monday, February 16: BM Top 20 Major/Mid Market N/T Radio Program Directors of 2024
- Tuesday, February 17: BM Top 20 Major/Mid Market N/T Radio Stations of 2025
- Wednesday, February 18: BM Top 20 Major/Mid Market News Media Digital Shows of 2025
- Thursday, February 19: BM Top 20 Major/Mid Market News Television Shows of 2025
- Friday, February 20: BM Top 20 Major/Mid Market News Television Talent of 2025
