Barrett Media's Top 20 Major Market News/Talk Radio Afternoon Shows of 2025: A Comprehensive Review
The Top 20 Series
Barrett Media's annual ranking of the top news/talk radio shows in major markets is a highly anticipated event in the radio industry. This year's edition, presented by JJ Surma Voiceovers, showcases the best in the field. The series is a testament to the collective feedback of industry voters, with Barrett Media playing a crucial role in assembling and presenting the results.
The Top 20 Shows
1. Mitch Albom of WJR 760 in Detroit
Mitch Albom's show secured the top spot, marking his first category win since Barrett Media initiated the series in 2022. He consistently ranked highly in previous years, finishing 5th in 2024, 3rd in 2023, and 2nd in 2022.
The Von Haessler Doctrine
Mitch Albom's victory was narrow, with a 10-point lead over The Von Haessler Doctrine. Albom's show received a category-best five first-place votes.Ryan Ermanni, Dominic Carter, LA's Afternoon News, Tony Ortiz & Tracey McCaskill, and Drivetime with DeRusha
These shows secured spots 21-25, showcasing the diversity of talent in the industry.James Parker and Cats & Crosby
The battle for 10th place was intense, with James Parker's show edging Cats & Crosby by just two points.
The Voting Process
Barrett Media's executive panel comprises 40 program directors and corporate executives from leading radio broadcasting companies. The panel ensures a diverse range of perspectives and a fair representation of the industry's best.
Voting Criteria
The voters considered several factors, including the ear test, originality, multi-platform impact, ratings success, clearance (national shows), and industry buzz. This comprehensive approach ensures that the top shows are not just popular but also innovative and influential.
Upcoming Releases
Barrett Media's Top 20 series will continue with the following releases:
- February 16: BM Top 20 Major/Mid Market News/Talk Radio Program Directors of 2024
- February 17: BM Top 20 Major/Mid Market News/Talk Radio Stations of 2025
- February 18: BM Top 20 Major/Mid Market News Media Digital Shows of 2025
- February 19: BM Top 20 Major/Mid Market News Television Shows of 2025
- February 20: BM Top 20 Major/Mid Market News Television Talent of 2025
Barrett Media's Expertise
Barrett Media, founded by Jason Barrett, specializes in daily content covering the music, news, and sports media industries. The company provides consulting services to top audio and video brands and offers valuable insights to media professionals through its website and newsletter.
Contact Information
- Website: https://barrettmedia.com/
- Newsletter Sign-up: https://barrettmedia.com/subscribe/
- Twitter: @SportsRadioPD
- Email: Jason@BarrettMedia.com
