Jake Underwood Launches New Daily Radio Program on Cleveland's WHK-AM 1420
Rhea-AI Summary
Salem Media (OTCQX: SALM) announced that Jake Underwood has launched The Jake Underwood Show, a daily program airing Monday–Friday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 noon on Cleveland's WHK-AM 1420 The Answer starting January 5, 2026. The show will cover politics, culture, faith, sports and local issues and aims to foster civic engagement and audience participation.
Underwood is described as a broadcaster and political strategist with experience at WTAM 1100, training at Harvard Kennedy School and UC Berkeley, and prior roles including advisor on a presidential campaign and leadership positions in state political organizations. The program is available across multiple media platforms.
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News Market Reaction 1 Alert
On the day this news was published, SALM gained 2.50%, reflecting a moderate positive market reaction.
Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.
Key Figures
Market Reality Check
Peers on Argus
Several broadcasting peers also traded lower, including CMLS (-13.17%) and FHLD (-9.28%), while SBSAA showed a much larger decline of -75.68%. Two peers were flat.
Historical Context
| Date | Event | Sentiment | Move | Catalyst |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-12-18 | Programming contract | Positive | -1.0% | Extended Joe Piscopo’s morning host agreement on AM 970 through 2028. |
| 2025-12-17 | Lineup change | Positive | -2.4% | Announced new Salem Radio Network midday lineup with expanded station reach. |
| 2025-11-17 | Content release | Neutral | -3.9% | Released film “Call Sign Courage: The Matt Lohmeier Story” on SalemNOW platform. |
| 2025-11-12 | Show addition | Positive | -5.5% | Added “That KEVIN Show” to SRN lineup, replacing The Eric Metaxas Show. |
| 2025-11-10 | Quarterly report | Neutral | -0.6% | Posted Third Quarter 2025 quarterly report to investor relations website. |
Recent company news items have generally been followed by negative 24-hour price reactions, even for routine programming and lineup announcements.
Over the last few months, Salem Media (OTCQX: SALM) has focused on programming and lineup initiatives alongside routine financial reporting. On 2025-11-10, the company posted its Q3 2025 report, followed by multiple radio content moves in November and December, including adding “That KEVIN Show,” extending Joe Piscopo through 2028, and revamping the midday lineup. Each of these announcements saw modestly negative 24-hour price moves, suggesting recent news has not translated into short-term share price strength.
Market Pulse Summary
This announcement highlights Salem Media’s continued focus on strengthening local talk programming, adding The Jake Underwood Show to WHK-AM 1420’s weekday schedule from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Recent history shows several programming and content initiatives alongside standard financial reporting, all occurring while the share price remained well below the $2.09 52-week high. Investors may watch how these incremental lineup moves affect audience reach and overall strategic positioning.
AI-generated analysis. Not financial advice.
Northeast Ohio Broadcaster and Political Strategist Brings Fresh Voice to Mornings
CAMARILLO, Calif., Jan. 05, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Salem Media, Inc. (OTCQX: SALM) announced that Jake Underwood, highly respected broadcaster, political strategist, and community leader with deep roots in Northeast Ohio, has launched The Jake Underwood Show, airing Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 noon on Cleveland's WHK-AM 1420 The Answer.
The Jake Underwood Show aspires to be the daily conversation hub for Northeast Ohio, delivering fast, honest talk on politics, culture, faith, sports, and everyday life. The program promises to tackle issues other voices avoid, bringing honesty and clarity back into public conversation.
"We're creating a space where Northeast Ohioans can engage with the issues that matter most to them," said Underwood. "Whether you agree or disagree, this show is about elevating the conversation and encouraging active participation in our community's future."
Jake Underwood brings extensive experience in media, policy, and grassroots organizing to his new program. He began his career as a news anchor and reporter at Cleveland News Radio WTAM 1100, where he covered state and local politics with a focus on accountability in government spending and policy. Trained in government and journalism through programs at the Harvard Kennedy School and UC Berkeley, Underwood has established himself as a strong advocate for civic engagement, local leadership, and transparent government.
His professional background includes serving as Advisor and Technical Director for the Team Kennedy presidential campaign and Executive Director of the Medina County Republican Party. As well, Underwood has served as National Director of State Legislation for Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Action, where he tracked and advocated for policies on farming, health freedom, and public health reform nationwide.
"Educating and enlightening our fellow Ohioans in a style that encourages active audience engagement is what drives and motivates me," Underwood added. "I look forward to mixing it up with those in our audience with whom I agree—and with those with whom I disagree."
Listeners can tune in to The Jake Underwood Show Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 noon on WHK-AM 1420 The Answer. The program is available across multiple media platforms.
About Salem Media
Salem Media is America’s premier multimedia company specializing in Christian and conservative content. Through its national radio network, digital platforms, and publishing brands, Salem reaches millions daily with powerful content that drives the national conversation. Learn more at salemmedia.com.
Company Contact:
Publicity@salemmedia.com
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/869c5d74-d980-464f-a075-0a49ac03ece5
FAQ
When does The Jake Underwood Show air on WHK-AM 1420 and what is the start date for SALM listeners?
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What broadcasting experience does Jake Underwood bring to the SALM program?
Does the announcement indicate interactive or caller-driven segments on the SALM show?
Where can investors or listeners find The Jake Underwood Show on the day of broadcast?
