Let me assure you that neither are true.
As for critical comments, they'll continue, when I see fit. I don't compromise this site so I can have news people on the show. Dan Ashley, for example, the prime anchor at KGO-TV has seen a lot of my riffs here and yet he's been on the show multiple times.
I needled KTVU weatherman, Bill Martin, for having a chip on his shoulder at times, yet Bill and I communicate all the time and I've invited him to be on the show. Raj Mathai of KNTV, I said, didn't look comfortable on the air initially as a newsreader but now he clearly commands the screen and does a good job.
I've teased Janelle Wang on occasion about her ad-libbing--legitimate criticism--yet Janelle has been on the show and, oh, by the way, her ad-libbing is much better. She's not Diane Dwyer, but she's shown vast improvement and has become one of the Bay Area's more notable anchors.
Frank Somerville gets a lot of praise here and it's deserved: he's on my top 5 list of favorite TV anchors which includes, Ashley, KTVU's Ken Wayne, KGO-TV's Carolyn Johnson, and KPIX5's, Ken Bastida.
*I'm trying to do something unique here: maintain the blog and continue to give you inside information that you look forward to and the main reason you come to this site. And you'll continue to get that info, I promise.
At the same time, I'm doing a radio show and periodically, I'll have guests on--some will be Bay Area media people, some not. I've established myself enough to where people want to do the show. Not all, but many. There's a few folks who are afraid to come on; no need to ID them and that's OK, hey I'm not everybody's favorite flavor, I get it. Fortunately, they're in the minority.
Another thing: if you listen to my show, (here's the link: http://www.ksco.com/lieberman-live) we're doing a lot of news-talk. The show isn't always centered on media so I've become more diversified. And I'm beginning to do a lot of shows guest-free which is great because I'm opinionated and can talk. That's a good thing.
By no means do I take you folks for granted. I'm always willing and able to want your feedback, even those of you who can't stand me, which is fine as long as it's clean and constructive. I'll grant you there's been times where I've responded sarcastically and not answered your gripes; entirely on me and I'm sorry, I'll try to improve there, after all, I dish therefore I should be able to handle legitimate criticism.
To my critics: do me a favor. Give me some time. Obviously, there's going to be perpetual pissed-off peeps that will never accept me. Fine. I'm a big boy, I can take it. But those of you that are neutral, don't care, or just plain suspicious, take some some time and give a listen. And if you feel like venting, give me a call and we'll go at it. I love a good debate.
As for the blog, I will continue to get you the info, provide my opinion; rant a little, rave too. Most importantly, be entertaining, offer my two cents, and write about Bay Area media and its society.
Feedback is vital. Again, you gotta gripe? Go ahead and post your thought(s). Compliments are welcome too. And oh yes, have I screwed up? Sure. So I'm human, forgive me.
*Follow me on Twitter and Facebook
*Tips-E-Mail-Donations to 415 Media: Rich.Lieberman@Gmail.com
One thing that Rich consistently fails to recognize (and this isn't specific to Rich himself, it applies across the board to anyone in the same situation) is that there is a fundamental, built-in conflict of interest when one presents himself as a neutral observer of an industry while at the same time he's actively competing in that same activity.
ReplyDeleteIn other professions there are specific ethical rules that proscribe such conflicts of interest. It's impossible to be neutral when you've got skin in the game.
Rich sometimes becomes defensive about this as if his own character is being questioned but this isn't a criticism of him personally. Rather, it's a criticism of putting oneself in an conflicted position where it's impossible to retain credibility in either role.
At the same time, if you so chose, could make the argument that his criticism of the media is self defeating...poisoning his own well.
DeleteMisguided? Poor judgement? Evil agenda? I don't know him, he's a guy with $.02 to offer like the rest of us. :/
If this clearly bothers you, then you do not have to read nor listen. Nothing personal.
ReplyDeleteI'm comfortable with what I do.
Rich, you say that, "I'm a big boy, I can take it", but apparently you can't.
Delete"Fair and Balanced" at 12:46 raises a perfectly reasonable point in a polite, analytical way and you respond in a rather childish way.
As Rich has said in his own words: "I'll grant you there's been times where I've responded sarcastically and not answered your gripes; entirely on me and I'm sorry, I'll try to improve there, after all, I dish therefore I should be able to handle legitimate criticism."
DeleteYesterday, was a first on KOMY/KSCO, as far as I know. It was talk radio at its best!
ReplyDeleteWhile Rich was doing his gig on KOMY 1340 from 1-4, calling out the fakes and haters in the industry, bay area radio icon and erudite commentator John Rothmann, who's received lavished praise by this blog, hosted "What's Left with John Rothmann" for a full three hours on KSCO AM 1080.
It was tough having to choose between Rich and John, as they are both among the best talk show hosts and each has a compelling take on things. So I settled for switching back and forth, thankful, of course, that KOMY/KSCO provides podcasts for future listening.
Rothmann drove to Santa Cruz yesterday morning, had lunch with station owner Michael Zwerling and they strolled together on the sun-bathed beach before Rothmann took to the air. True to form, Rothmann was serious and compelling, took calls, and reminded us once again of the danger to Israel of another Holocaust if Iran obtains nuclear weapons. One nuclear bomb dropped on Tel Aviv would kill 2 million, he said.
this is so odd because here's a person commenting anonymously about rich/rothmann, calling their shows some of the "best." then person delves into details about rothmann's day, which implies the person has detailed knowledge of the situation itself. it's like "fair and balanced"'s post, that someone is trying to comment on something he himself (or her) is involved in.
Deleteso pardon me if i don't take this particular post above seriously.
none of this meant to disparage the work john or rich do. - dw
Fair and balanced. Go re-read the First Amendment. It covers both of Rich's endeavors. If you disagree, sue. Let a federal judge decide. That's the legal part. As for the ethical/industry issues, let the reader/listener decide via page clicks, radio ratings and ad revenue. That's how a free market economy works.
ReplyDeleteYour point about the First Amendment makes no sense. I'm not claiming that he has no right to do what he's doing.
DeleteI'm saying that by trying to perform both jobs at once he's got a guilt in conflict of interest.
Someone who analyzes financial markets and makes observations about stocks and bonds cannot maintain an interest in the investments he's recommending.
Television critics don't review other programs when they are trying to get their own shows on the air.
We expect commentators to be unbiased to the extent we presume they don't have a horse in the race.
This is simply not the case here if Lieberman trys to appear neutral while at the same time having a vested interest in the success of his own radio show.
This is a simple objective observation.
Guilty as charged? Questions for readers of this blog to ponder.
ReplyDelete1) Does Rich "present himself as a neutral observer of an industry while at the same time he's actively competing in that same activity?"
2) As both a media blogger and radio talk show host, has Rich put himself in a "conflicted position where it's impossible to retain credibility in either role?"
3) In your view, should Rich: a) continue on his present course;
b) give up blogging about bay area media; or c) quit his radio talk show? Why or why not?
Get Real!
Delete1) I don't think Rich has ever stated or otherwise tried to lead us to believe that he's neutral and impartial. As a blogger, he frankly and candidly shares his personal perspective on things, including bay area media outlets and personalities. It's up to readers such as you to evaluate Rich's opinions and determine whether or not they offer anything of substance and value.
2) I don't see a conflict-of-interest here. Rich receives exposure but no compensation (to my knowledge) for his radio show on KSCO/KOMY. Rich is broadcasting on a station in the Monterey-Santa Cruz-Salinas market. KOMY's signal can't be heard beyond that local market. He's not directly competing with the bay area radio hosts he may write about, such as KGO's Ronn Owens. Besides, half the time Rich blogs about bay area TV personalities and he has no presence on TV.
3) I'd go with option a: Rich should "stay the course."
Get Real
Delete1) Rich presents himself as an unbiased observer of the local media scene while at the same time he has his own fledgling radio show that he's trying to establish and expand. He has openly written about his desire to get syndicated.
2) I believe there is a conflict of interest. When he criticizes another venture, is it because it's deserved or because in either a specific or general way, it's a competitor.
Likewise when he praises something, is it because he likes it or becomes he has somehow benefits by praising it.
3) Probably should dump the radio show. Think he's better at being a snarky observer than radio host.
I don't think the blog has suffered at all. BTW, the trouble with Bill Martin is that the money has gone to his head. He "mails it in" at they say and doesn't do his homework. I have call him numerous times before he goes on the air and told him to look at the current conditions or the morning lows or or there rainfall reports. he relies too much on the National Weather Service and doesn't take time to look at WeatherUnderground data or weather stations operated by the BAAQMD or Cal-Fire. He is lazy at times. Just my opinion.
ReplyDeleteI liked the old days (pre-computers, pre-video graphics)when the forecasters used magic markers or weather emblems that they moved around on white boards and got their 411 from god knew where. THAT took some real talent.
DeleteGreat hearing from you, Mike! I enjoyed listening to you immensely when you were on KNBR 680 mornings with Frank Dill (San Francisco's "morning mayor") and Mike Cleary back in the 1970s. Mike was always cracking jokes with you about Cordelia Junction.
DeleteAgree with Mike Pechner.
DeleteEver since Bill Martin began making those appearances with Ralph Barbieri and Tom Tolbert you can see the change in his demeanor.
Someone needs to tell this guy he is not Brad Pitt.
To Get Real:
ReplyDeleteThere is no way Lieberman can retain credibility blogging about other people's radio programs while he's trying so desperately to get his own little show started.
First of all, it's hard to take his criticism of other established stars seriously when we here Lieberman's show.
Second, there are cases with his affiliation with his radio employer present obvious financial conflicts of interest like when he starts defending syndicated hosts connected with Zwierling, people whom he never would have defended before.
Name one? I've both ripped and praised Alex Johnson; long before I came on radio, I loved Savage and Hendrie. And NOBODY here at KSCO/KOMY has told me what to say, NOBODY. Get real.
DeleteNobody has to tell you what to say. Zwerling and Savage are in bed together, just as you and Zwerling are in bed together.
DeleteNo big surprise that you posted and article in praise of Savage shortly after your radio show got started.
"In bed together?" Savage is no longer on the station...And yes, Zwerling, the owner, hired me. Does that make me "in bed together? with him? You make the call.
DeleteYes, you are beholden to him because you work for him. You are in bed together.
DeleteSo then I gather that you're "in bed" with your employer?
DeleteYes.
DeleteRest my case.
DeleteNews flash: John Rothmann may be joining the regular line-up at KSCO/KOMY where Rich Liebeberman and KGO veterna Dr. Bill Wattenburg have become regular fixtures and popular draws.
ReplyDeleteHour number 2 of "Lieberman Live" interrupted by Michael Zwerling, who is discussing with Rich over both KOMY and KSCO, whether or not John Rothmann should become a regular addition to the line-up after guest hosting on KSCO yesterday afternoon. Station owner Zwerling, a.k.a., "MZ," says he's received a huge favorable response to the idea from listeners.
MZ and Rich now taking calls from listeners about programming...
I used to listen to john rothmann on kgo. I liked it. I think it would be a great move to add him as a regular host. if he was that on a station I could receive, i'd likely tune in often...thanks!
DeleteWould love to hear John Rothman on a regular basis, I'm getting very tired of Gil Gross (still think he is a nice man)either he is getting burned out, or he is trying a new format to get new and different listerners i.e. younger, I don't think it is working. His stories is not interesting, and I find myself switching channel, if people have a shorter attention span I don't see how 4 hours of one hosts who is long winded, and don't take many calls makes sense. Today David Lazarus sat in for Norm Goldman on 960, I use to listen to him on KGO, he is actually quite good, knows his stuff, can engage the caller, etc. Also getting tired of Tim Montemayor, anyone noticed how often he says "amazing", he also keep bringing up the same subjects. There is definitely radio talent available, but seems most stations mangement is hell bent on giving on mediocre hosts. What a shame.
DeleteMr. L
ReplyDeleteI caught 30 minutes of your radio show today. Absolutely horrible! Stick to what you know.
Thanks for at least listening.
DeleteI notice that Rich has been censoring comments a lot more since he started his radio program.
ReplyDeleteHe blocks any comments critical of his radio program. It's understandable because he uses the blog to promote the show but it's an obvious double standard and conflict of interests when he censors negative comments about HIS OWN show that he wouldn't censor if it were anyone else.
Yeah, I'm a regular member of the North Korea media dept and it's my duty to censor and restrict you.
DeleteHey, gotta issue with the show? CALL ME!! 831-477-1340 M-F. God, how clear can I be?!!
Rich: You keep tellin' peeps that have issues with you and your show to call you and debate you on the air. That's fine except you don't take calls! Kind of an empty gesture.
DeleteTell you what: I'll give you the first call award tomorrow on my show at 1: 15: YOU CALL, WE GO AT IT.
DeleteOK? Sincerely, Mr. Empty gesture.
Rich: Don't feed the trolls!
DeleteI'll give you credit for choice of hats. Very good.
ReplyDeleteI'd say MZ definitely wants you at KSCO/KOMY based on the comments he made on your show today. Thumbs up!
ReplyDeleteWhich Chinese restaurants in Oakland do you recommend most highly?
ReplyDeleteYung Kee is good...also like Hunan too but I'm a spicy guy.
DeleteAny chance you might do a live remote from there of "Lieberman Live?"
DeleteSpices 3
DeleteWhat is the likelihood that John Rothmann will become a regular at KSCO/KOMY? I'm thinking he could replace Rush Limbaugh during the 9am - Noon slot on KSCO. Your thoughts?
ReplyDeleteI have no idea but doubt the Rush slot b/c Rush still brings in a ton of people.
DeletePut John Rothmann 3 hours in the afternoon to counter Rush. That would be interesting on
Deletehttp://ksco.com/whats-left !
Hey Rich! With NPR cancelling its long-running "Talk of the Nation" program, what's KQED-FM going to air in its place from 11am - 1pm? On KQED this morning, there was speculation that a locally produced call-in show might be forthcoming. Rothmann would be a terrific host!
ReplyDeleteRothmann is perfectly suited to NPR; he is erudite, has encyclopedic knowledge of presidents and history (although he does seem to have this weird thing for Harold Stassen and Wendell Wilkie), and does not adhere to "entertainment uber alles".
DeleteRich
ReplyDeleteWhen is Greg Kihn going to be a guest on RLL?
RIch,
ReplyDeleteI like your site. It adds to insight on BayArea Media.
Please do anything you can to help Johon Rothmann get a real, every day time slot. His contributions are badly needed.
Thank you for what you do. Keep it up and don't let the negative people get you down.