'There's a lot of positivity in challenging times': Stingray's Steve Jones on leading like a rockstar

About the Guest(s):Sam Buckingham-Jones is a respected media and marketing reporter for the Australian Financial Review, focusing on the intersection of media and business. Known for his insightful analysis and impactful journalism, Sam has covered a variety of significant stories within the media industry in Australia, including legal battles and market transitions. His experience and expertise offer a profound understanding of the repercussions faced by media companies amidst market upheavals.Episode Summary:This episode delves into the tumultuous financial landscape of Australian media companies. They focus on ARN's significant market challenges following fluctuations in their market value due to major celebrity contract fallouts. The conversation reveals ARN's dramatic loss of market capital post high-profile contracts with Kyle and Jackie O, providing critical insights into the financial and operational intricacies that such media companies navigate.Through a detailed analysis, Sam Buckingham-Jones discusses the repercussions of significant market contractions and the potential strategies ARN might employ to stabilise their plummeting share value. Offering a deep dive into the media landscape, the episode explores the potential replacements for the Kyle and Jackie O show, suggesting possibilities for revitalising revenue through strategic programming changes. Sam provides formidable insights into how ARN might navigate their financial challenges with a potential shift in program strategy, fostering robust discussions on the future of the Australian radio industry amidst its current predicaments.Key Takeaways:ARN has experienced a dramatic 75% loss in market value following high-profile contracts, notably with Kyle and Jackie O, indicating serious challenges in its market positioning.The intricacies of media-related legal and financial disputes are highlighted, particularly focusing on compensation claims that exceed the company's current valuation.Potential strategies for ARN's recovery, including new programming options for Sydney and Melbourne, highlight the challenges in navigating celebrity departures and audience retention.The public scrutiny and impacts on share prices for listed media companies are discussed, emphasising the need for timely and strategic organisational responses.The importance of innovative leadership and strategic content decisions in media companies is underscored, emphasising how ARN's executives face complex problems inherited from past management decisions.Notable Quotes:"ARN was a $300 million company, and yesterday it closed at less than $75 million.""It's this unusual moment where the breakfast audience in Sydney is up for grabs.""If you think about ways you can stabilise a share price, one is cost… and another is a positive announcement…like an all-new, brand-safe breakfast show."Resources:Australian Financial Review

About the Guest(s):James Cridland James Cridland is the Editor of Radioland and the creator and editor of Podnews. With an extensive career in the radio and podcasting industries, James is renowned for his insightful analysis and reporting on media trends. His expertise and commentary are sought after by many in the media space, making him a respected voice in understanding the evolving landscape of radio and podcasts.Episode Summary:In this episode of "The Quarter Hour," hosted by Wade Kingsley, the conversation pivots around the sudden and shocking exit of Scott Mills from the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast show. James Cridland joins the discussion to unravel the sparse details behind this unexpected move. As one of the UK's most beloved radio personalities, Scott Mills' departure has sent ripples through the media landscape, with his longtime association with BBC and ubiquitous presence on British airwaves coming under scrutiny.The host and guest traverse the deep-seated implications of such a high-profile removal and question the future of talent handling amidst allegations. Wade and James reflect on the pervasive culture within the BBC and the similarities to other notable cases, such as those involving Huw Edwards and Phillip Schofield. They delve into the media landscape differences between the UK and Australia, the concept of household broadcaster loyalty, and the potential impacts on the Radio 2 breakfast show audience. Join them as they unpack what Scott Mills' unceremonious exit means for radio, reputation, and media culture at large.Key Takeaways:Scott Mills' Departure: Scott Mills, a renowned radio presenter, has been removed from BBC Radio 2's Breakfast Show amidst allegations pertaining to a previous relationship.BBC Scrutiny: The BBC's treatment of its talent has come under serious introspection, compounded by past incidents involving other high-profile figures such as Jimmy Savile and Huw Edwards.Media Culture: There's a marked difference between UK and Australian media, notably in talent management and broadcaster loyalty.Audience Impact: The sudden change in the breakfast show lineup could be jarring for the audience that had grown accustomed to Mills' presence.Industry Insight: The discussion highlights the precarious nature of media careers, especially under public scrutiny and evolving cultural norms.Notable Quotes:"It's one of those sort of weird things where there's not very much that we have information or access to.""Scott Mills was a good, safe pair of hands, but also somebody that really understood radio.""In the UK, you’re a BBC person, you’re an ITV person. It’s very unusual for somebody to appear cross network."Resources:James Cridland's Newsletter: Radio LandPod News, created and edited by James Cridland: Pod NewsAudata: Audata.ioThis episode offers a compelling look at the challenges and dynamics of media relations and talent management within one of the world's largest public broadcasters. Dive in to explore the layers of media culture and stay tuned for more engaging conversations on "The Quarter Hour."

About the Guest(s):Natasha Lee: Natasha Lee is the Media Editor at Mediaweek, a leading source of news and analysis for the Australian media industry. With a wealth of experience in journalism and media commentary, Natasha brings insightful analysis and context to significant media stories and trends. Her professional background includes coverage of media narratives and personalities, offering expert perspectives on how media entities communicate critical developments to the public.Episode Summary:In this episode, media insiders delve into the high-stakes legal battles involving renowned Australian radio personalities Kyle Sandilands and Jackie 'O' Henderson with their former employer, ARN. Wade Kingsley is joined by Natasha Lee from Media Week to break down the complexities of the ongoing legal proceedings and the underlying issues at ARN. As media experts, they scrutinise the claims and counterclaims surrounding contract terminations, alleged unfair dismissals, and the implications on ARN's market position.In the discussion, Kingsley and Lee offer an in-depth analysis, exploring the potential fallout of Jackie O's termination and her substantial legal claim. Detailing the contract provisions and the broader impact on ARN's operations, they highlight how these proceedings underscore critical issues within the media industry. Through insightful commentary, they shed light on the ramifications of this high-profile dispute and its reflection on media management practices in Australia. Key Takeaways:Legal Minefield: The legal proceedings spearheaded by Jackie Henderson against ARN are centered on claims of unfair dismissal following her complaints regarding workplace bullying, potentially setting significant precedents in employment law within the media industry.Monumental Stakes: Jackie O's legal claim of $82.25 million against ARN signals the enormous financial stakes involved, contrasting with ARN's current market valuation and financial instability.Insightful Media Analysis: Natasha Lee's expert commentary reveals both the immediate impact of these legal disputes on ARN and the broader implication for media management and corporate accountability.ARN's Existential Crisis: The reality of potentially losing its flagship media personalities highlights the critical nature of effective talent contracts and crisis management for media conglomerates.Notable Quotes:“Seeing her name like that just makes it completely real… the gloves are off.” - Natasha Lee“This isn't as surprising… this has been planned in any scenario planning.” - Wade Kingsley“She's an incredibly smart businesswoman… you do not become the highest paid female in Australian media without having some now.” - Natasha LeeResources:Media Week: Website

Matt O'Reilly is Head of Broadcast Content at Southern Cross Austereo. With a keen interest in radio production and research, Matt combines creative insight with strategic reflections on broadcasting. His background includes roles in content development, and his expertise travels across various facets of radio production and research methodology.Wade Kingsley is an avid radio enthusiast and an industry connector, hosting discussions about the world of radio. Through broad interactions at conferences like Radio Days Europe, Wade engages with professionals to explore the evolving landscape of radio broadcasting.Episode Summary:In this episode from the bustling ambiance of Radio Days Europe in Riga, Latvia, host Wade Kingsley chats with Matt O'Reilly of Southern Cross Austereo.Matt shares his experiences from Radio Days Europe, highlighting sessions that resonated deeply, particularly around creative space protection and innovative production methodologies. Through this exchange, topics like new research contacts, the role of creative meetings, and advancements from radio stations like PR3 in Denmark and BBC Radio 1, come to light. Wade and Matt discuss technological integrations, such as the use of loop pedals and live beat mixing, showcasing how radio continues to evolve and innovate. Listeners will gain insights on strategic broadcasting approaches that enhance audience engagement through concepts like "bread and butter" topics.Key Takeaways:Insights are shared around innovative practices in radio, including daily pitch meetings and designated creative roles at stations like PR3.Discussions around Radio Days Europe emphasised practical strategies being used by producers to protect creative space and enhance storytelling.Exploring how radio shows, such as BBC Radio 1's new music program, leverage technology and live beat mixing to create immersive experiences for listeners.The concept of "bread and butter" topics is discussed as a planning tool for engaging radio content, drawing parallels to effective campaign strategies.Matt O'Reilly shares reflections on international networking opportunities from the conference, stressing the importance of connecting with global media professionals.Notable Quotes:"I haven't left with 20 ideas, but I've left with some good thought starters to think about things differently." — Matt O'Reilly"Every third week they're not doing breakfast hours, which I think is exciting." — Matt O'Reilly"The first slide of his presentation was, why do we do segging between music?" — Matt O'Reilly"The restrictions that were put in place on him made him a better broadcaster." — Matt O'Reilly"Is it a bread and butter issue or is it too complicated? Do enough people care about it?" — Matt O'ReillyResources:Southern Cross AustereoRadio Days Europe ConferencePR3 Denmark – A youth-focused station renowned for its creative approachesBBC Radio 1 – New Music ShowListeners are encouraged to tune into the full episode for a deeper exploration into how radio professionals are shaping the future of audio content. Stay connected with the series for more insightful discussions from industry experts!

Niall Power: Niall Power is a prominent radio professional from Ireland, associated with Beat radio. Known for his expertise in orchestrating effective and engaging radio promotions, Niall holds a considerable reputation in the industry. His most notable contribution is his annual "Top 10 Promotions" presentation at Radio Days Europe, which he has been presenting since 2018. Episode Summary:In this engaging episode, host Wade Kingsley sits down with Niall Power from Beat radio to discuss the art of radio promotions, highlighting the most innovative and influential ideas from around the globe. Niall delves into the origin and impact of his popular presentation at Radio Days Europe and shares insightful anecdotes and ideas that have captured the industry's attention. Broadcasting from Riga, Niall and Wade reflect on the vibrant city and its offerings, setting a lively backdrop for their conversation.Niall Power shares his journey of discovering and presenting the top radio promotions worldwide, a venture that began in 2018 when his then-boss identified the need to focus on radio promotions at Radio Days Europe. From GHR in the UK with their innovative Live Aid broadcast to Joe in the Netherlands' cost-effective car license frame idea, Niall presents inventive, budget-friendly examples that any station can adapt to fit their scale. Niall also shares insights into Beat's successful "Daily Dilemma Uncensored" podcast and live event series, demonstrating how radio benchmarks can be creatively expanded into different formats to engage audiences effectively.Key Takeaways:Niall Power’s "Top 10 Promotions" presentations at Radio Days Europe showcase innovative and scalable radio promotion ideas from across the world.Effective promotions are not just about the medium but involve a multi-platform approach, including social media and live events.Creativity in promotions can significantly strengthen a radio show's brand, influence listenership, and even reach international media attention.Niall highlights a simple yet successful idea from Joe in the Netherlands, using license plate frames as a promotional tool.Beat's transition of the "Daily Dilemma" feature into a thriving podcast and live event series exemplifies the potential of radio content expansion.Notable Quotes:"It started back in 2018… my boss came up with this idea that we didn't really do anything around promotions." - Niall Power"It's a load of ideas thrown at you… and anybody in the room could take some of these ideas." - Niall Power"They rebroadcast the entire concert at the exact time." - Niall Power on GHR's Live Aid Relived."No budget at all, simple idea… you've got 10,000 people advertising your radio station." - Niall Power on Joe's promotional strategy."It's just this lovely circle now for us… breakfast show, podcast, live event all pushing back towards the breakfast show." - Niall PowerResources:Radio Days Europe: Radio Days Europe WebsiteBeat Radio: Beat WebsiteJoe in the Netherlands: Explore their unique promotional strategies.GHR (Greatest Hits Radio) in the UK: Learn about their Live 8 ReLive promotion.

Steve Jones is the President of Stingray Radio, a division of the Stingray Group, a global leader in delivering music and media content. With a career rooted in radio programming, Jones has risen through the ranks, having held prominent roles such as VP of Programming. He is recognized for bringing a product-focused perspective to leadership while fusing it with strong business acumen. Jones is known for his thought leadership in the audio and music industry, often sharing insights through his LinkedIn newsletter, "Lead Like a Rockstar."Episode Summary:Join host Wade Kingsley in an engaging conversation with Steve Jones, President of Stingray Radio, recorded live from Radio Days Europe in Riga, Latvia. This episode highlights the industry's global challenges and opportunities. Discover how European optimism contrasts with North American perspectives and how big personalities like Kyle and Jackie O are reshaping the narrative around radio.In this thought-provoking episode, Steve Jones discusses his leadership journey at Stingray Radio, emphasising the importance of merging business smarts with a passion for product. Highlighting the cultural and operational dynamics of Stingray's global music empire, Jones shares insights into building cohesive teams that resonate with both employees and audiences alike. The conversation also delves into how iconic music groups like ABBA have masterfully crafted their image, linking it to leadership lessons that Jones is compiling for his upcoming book.Key Takeaways:European Radio Optimism: The contrasting optimism of European radio markets compared to North American counterparts underscores the global diversity in radio industry perspectives.Leadership in Radio: Having a product person like Steve Jones at the helm of Stingray Radio is pivotal in balancing financial discipline with creative innovation and audience satisfaction.Crafting Iconic Images: ABBA's strategic brand crafting and image protection demonstrate that great success in the music and leadership realms often stems from calculated initiatives rather than accidents.Performance of Authenticity: Leadership, as highlighted by Jones, is about performing one's authentic self strategically, as demonstrated by personalities like Freddie Mercury.Notable Quotes:"There's an optimism here [in Europe] that sometimes in North America I think we lose a bit." — Steve Jones"Nothing happens by accident. You need to take great pains to get it right." — Steve Jones"I don't think leadership is a falsely crafted performance. It's a performance of your own authenticity." — Steve Jones"You never achieve success unless everyone believes in the mission." — Steve Jones"ABBA has a tremendous amount to teach leaders about crafting and protecting an image." — Steve JonesResources:Steve Jones on LinkedIn: Follow his insights on "Lead Like a Rockstar" here.Stingray Group: Learn more about the company here.Radio Days Europe: Information on the event can be found here.

Ben Cooper is one of the world's most in-demand media consultants. With decades of experience at the BBC and Bauer Media, Ben discusses building a culture of mutual respect at your radio station.On his way to Radio Days Europe, Wade catches up with Ben for a beer on the banks of the Thames.Contact Ben Cooper: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-cooper-media/About Ben Cooper:A creative industries leader with executive experience in Radio, Audio, Visual & Social Media content, Journalism and Live Events.Passionate about driving innovation and transformation to address new ways that audiences, artists and advertisers interact. Proven record of delivering business growth and reaching new consumers.At Bauer Media Audio created a strategy that resulted in record breaking growth of 20% in 4 years to 24 million weekly listeners, hit ambitious commercial targets and won various industry awards including best National station at the ARIAS.Enhanced the on-air talent by increasing the diversity of new and established presenters, plus the front page story of signing Ken Bruce, the UK’s most listened to radio show host, which resulted in GHR becoming commercial radio’s most listened to station.Collaborated with teams across 9 different European countries to broadcast an exclusive Coldplay concert across multiple Bauer-owned radio stations.Participated in various pan-European projects including an international podcasting strategy and a future of AI in broadcasting.As Controller of BBC Radio 1 used audience insights and data to be at the forefront of visual radio and social media. Radio 1 became the first radio station in the world to reach 1 million YouTube subscribers and remains the largest radio station on the platform.Delivered large, complex projects and managed multi-million pound budgets - coordinated the planning of BBC Music’s Biggest Weekend (4 concerts in 4 Nations over 4 days) across 3 BBC TV channels, 6 national radio stations, iPlayer and social media.Respected for successful strategies, simplifying structures and a leadership style built on clarity, creativity and collaboration.

About the Guest(s):Craig Munn Craig Munn is the station manager of FIVEAA, a talkback radio station in Adelaide, Australia. With 13 years as station manager since rejoining the station in 2013, Craig has witnessed and contributed to the growth and success of FIVEAA. His career in the media industry, particularly at this station, highlights his dedication and commitment to local radio broadcasting, emphasising community engagement and the significance of talk radio.Episode Summary:In this special episode, Wade Kingsley celebrates the 50th anniversary of FIVEAA, Adelaide's beloved talkback radio station, by inviting station manager Craig Munn to share insights and anecdotes from the station's rich history. Wade fondly recalls his time at FIVEAA in the late '90s and chats with Craig about the station's unique connection to Adelaide, its legacy of iconic broadcasters, and the role of talk radio in reflecting and shaping community sentiments.Adelaide's FIVEAA holds a special place in the hearts of its listeners and has consistently championed local content and personalities. Craig Munn attributes the station's success to its genuine commitment to being local, a sentiment echoed in its sports programming and community-driven shows. They discuss how veteran presenters like Graham Cornes and KG Cunningham became synonymous with FIVEAA, leaving a lasting impact. The episode also pays homage to figures like Bob Francis and Leon Byner, whose unorthodox styles and dedication brought authenticity and entertainment to the station's programming. Through a blend of entertainment, satire, and serious journalism, FIVEAA remains a staple of Adelaide's media landscape.Key Takeaways:FIVEAA has been a cornerstone of Adelaide's talk radio, known for its local-centric content and community engagement.Key personalities, including Graham Cornes, KG Cunningham, Bob Francis, and Leon Byner, have played integral roles in shaping the station's identity and success.The station prides itself on an unorthodox mix of sports, entertainment, and news, resonating deeply with listeners across Adelaide.FIVEAA's longevity is attributed to its local appeal, serving as a platform for fostering a sense of community through talk radio.Unique programming elements, like John Blake's "Behind Closed Doors," contributed to the station's ability to self-reflect with humour and authenticity.Notable Quotes:"I think most people would say the same that sort of has worked in our media landscape. It's just been a bit of a blur these last few years." - Craig Munn"I think FIVEAA has always been slightly unorthodox in the way that we've put together our lineup." - Craig Munn"Ultimately, it was a show that definitely resonated with people that don't normally listen to a taught radio station." - Craig Munn"Leon was someone that he genuinely enjoyed seeing results for people." - Craig Munn"We're still a people-driven organisation." - Craig MunnResources:FIVEAA's official websiteJoin Wade Kingsley and Craig Munn in this retrospective tribute to FIVEAA, and discover how the station continues to thrive by embracing its community roots and celebrating its rich heritage. Tune in for intriguing insights and captivating stories that highlight the significance of local talk radio. Don't miss the next episode for more informative and engaging discussions!

About the Guest(s):Steve Reynolds is a renowned talent coach recognised globally, especially within the radio industry. With a strong foothold in the creative mentoring of on-air talent, Steve brings a wealth of experience and insight into talent management. He has interacted with various personalities and industries, providing a unique perspective on nurturing talent. Steve has been instrumental in guiding many radio hosts to enhance their narrative skills and professional growth.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode, Wade Kingsley explores the intricacies and dynamics of managing a successful morning radio show with expert guest Steve Reynolds. The conversation takes an insightful turn as Steve shares personal anecdotes that underline the significance of fostering relationships between team members to avoid professional conflicts. Listeners are in for an engaging discussion that combines humour, anecdotal wisdom, and practical advice related to radio show hosting.Steve Reynolds delves deep into what it takes to maintain harmony within on-air teams, especially under high-stress broadcasting environments. Highlighting the infamous Kyle and Jackie O situation, the episode discusses preventive measures for conflicts and enhancing interpersonal relationships within radio teams. The discussion extends further to touch upon Steve's unique life experiences, stressing the importance of gathering diverse stories and friendships, and how they translate into being an engaging radio personality. Throughout the episode, Wade and Steve advocate for the significance of building genuine human connections over simply working relationships for sustained success in media.Key Takeaways:Understanding human dynamics and fostering a positive work environment can prevent conflicts in high-stake areas like radio broadcasting.Meeting and connecting with people different from oneself enriches personal and professional storytelling.Establishing robust mechanisms for resolving conflicts among on-air teams is crucial for their longevity and success.Employers should consider support systems like mental health resources to improve the well-being of media personalities.Continuous personal connection with team members, outside the work context, strengthens collaboration and reduces the likelihood of disagreements.Notable Quotes:"If you want to be, you want to have stories to tell… that means you've got to step into the arena of life and take gambles." – Steve Reynolds"Describe your perfect friend. I thought it was a great question… without skipping a beat, my mother looked at me and she says, 'That sounds really fucking boring.'" – Steve Reynolds"Interesting sort of spills on you… If I'm around interesting people, I'll be a more interesting person on the air." – Steve Reynolds"I try to teach this to the talent that I work with… if you want to be successful, you need to have interesting things to say." – Steve Reynolds"Forward-thinking companies would provide resources to have a therapist on staff that would travel to markets and just talk to people." – Steve ReynoldsResources:Reynolds Group RadioThe Quarter Hour Podcast Sponsor: Audata.io.

About the Guest(s):James Cridland: A seasoned radio futurologist, James Cridland has dedicated over 36 years to the radio industry. He is the editor of Podnews, a leading newsletter that focuses on podcasts and on-demand content. His expertise in the digital audio world positions him as a thought leader and an influencer in the industry.Wade Kingsley: An innovative thinker in the podcasting realm, Wade Kingsley is the founder of Podtential, a business aimed at helping independent podcasters realise their full potential. With a background in commercial radio consultancy, Wade brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcasting industry. His new venture, Podtential, is designed to support podcasters by offering a comprehensive toolkit to aid their growth and development.Episode Summary:James interviews Wade on his own podcast, providing a unique twist to explore the innovative strategies emerging for independent podcasters.As the founder of Podtential, Wade Kingsley introduces listeners to a pioneering service that focuses on growing independent podcasts through data-driven methodologies. This episode unveils Podtential's flagship tool, PRO (Podcast Review and Optimiser), which evaluates podcasts using 100 distinct data points. Wade provides an understanding of how these metrics - spanning ambition, concept, audience engagement, content quality, marketing, and commercialisation strategy - can help podcasters identify growth opportunities. His goal is to offer strategic support, enabling podcasts to nurture and engage their communities and potentially monetise their content.The discussion also delves into broader podcasting tactics, including the role of marketing, search engine optimisation, and the potential impact of artificial intelligence on discoverability. Key Takeaways:Podtential's Mission: Wade Kingsley is committed to helping independent podcasters reach their potential through tailored support and data-based insights.PRO: Podtential's flagship tool, PRO, analyses 100 data points to evaluate and guide podcast expansion strategies.The Role of Marketing: Effective podcast growth involves strategic marketing efforts, which may not always require large budgets but do need a keen understanding of audience engagement.Audio vs. Video: The choice between focusing on audio or incorporating video should align with a podcast’s specific goals and audience needs.Industry Perspective: Wade's shift from commercial radio to podcasting underscores a strategic move towards a sector teeming with growth possibilities.Notable Quotes:"Potential - I think it sums up exactly what I want to help independent podcasters do." — Wade Kingsley"The amount of podcasts that don't start with a goal, I reckon is a little bit scary." — Wade Kingsley"I don't have all the answers. I'm not saying I'm a podcasting expert, but I feel like I have a helpful tool." — Wade Kingsley"If I can continue to be that support for independent podcasters, then that's a good reason to get out of bed every day." — Wade KingsleyResources:Podtential Website: podtential.comPod News: A daily podcast news resource edited by James Cridland available at podnews.net.