Colin Cowherd Discusses Radio Affiliates, FS1, and The Volume
Colin Cowherd has been a notable presence in national sports talk radio for over two decades. His career began in 2001 with the morning drive show “The Herd” on KFXX 910 AM in Portland, Oregon. In 2004, he made a significant move to ESPN Radio, where his program gained wider recognition, airing for an hour daily on the West Coast. Recently, Cowherd celebrated reaching 400 affiliates for his national radio show, marking a major milestone in his career.
Milestones and Growth
This landmark achievement was realized when “The Herd” was picked up by Rip City Radio 620, a station in Portland. Cowherd expressed pride in the diverse affiliate network that has supported his show. He noted that despite not closely monitoring daily ratings, his program routinely ranks among the highest-rated shows on both television and radio platforms.
Transition to FS1 and New Show Dynamics
Since transitioning to Fox Sports and iHeartMedia in 2012, Cowherd’s show has been well-integrated into television while maintaining its radio presence. He collaborates with co-host Jason McIntyre to develop content suitable for both mediums. A key focus of their broadcast is pace; a fast-paced show tends to engage audiences more effectively, despite some occasional imperfections.
New FS1 Lineup
Recently, FS1 amended its weekday programming by incorporating a deal with Barstool Sports. This arrangement introduced the new morning show “Wake Up Barstool,” which features contributors like Dave Portnoy and T-Bob Hebert. Cowherd’s show follows this program, maintaining a strong presence in weekday prime hours. The revamped schedule has sparked discussions about the strategic positioning of FS1 content.
The Volume’s Expansion
Founded in 2021, Cowherd’s digital media company, The Volume, has seen significant growth and diversification, including podcasts and content beyond sports. Cowherd shared that The Volume is currently operating profitably with all its podcasts, highlighting the talents of his staff.
Revenue Growth and Business Vision
Two years post-launch, The Volume’s valuation has reportedly increased, with revenue projections aiming for $60 million this year. Cowherd emphasized his goal of reaching $100 million in revenue, reflecting strong performance and market interest. He enjoys a degree of autonomy in his working relationship with Fox Sports, which he values highly.
Strategic Partnerships in Advertising
- Partnership with iHeartMedia enhances advertising capabilities.
- Flexibility in advertising placement across radio and podcasting generates broader interest.
Cowherd noted the shifting landscape of sports talk radio advertising, stating that The Volume provides unique advantages to advertisers by combining various platforms. This strategic approach has positioned his content favorably in the competitive market.
Looking Ahead
In his recent quarterly meeting in Rhode Island, Cowherd expressed optimism about The Volume’s future, reinforcing his commitment to his staff and their families. His focus on creating a positive work culture is integral to his vision for growth. Moving forward, he aims to continue expanding his company’s footprint while providing enriching content to his audience.
As Cowherd progresses in the media landscape, he remains dedicated to being a reliable voice in sports talk, determined to offer insightful opinions and information. His unwavering focus on delivering value to his listeners and viewers underlines his significant role in the evolution of sports media.
