Overview

• Chicago Public Media, parent company of WBEZ and the Chicago Sun-Times, announced layoffs affecting 14 positions across different departments including the podcast unit and Vocalo radio station.
• The decision to end Vocalo's radio broadcast by May 1 comes after years of financial losses and a stagnant listenership of 11,000 weekly.
• Union leaders expressed deep disappointment and concern over the impact on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, as well as the loss to listeners and members.
• Despite a reported profit in the latest tax filings, CEO Matt Moog highlighted flat operating revenues and insufficient audience and revenue growth to cover expenses.
• The organization plans to phase out its fellowship program in fiscal year 2025 and focus on growing its digital presence, which has seen significant audience increases.