Cumulus Media's WJR-AM (Detroit) has been recognized across three different categories in Barrett Media’s Top 20 Major Market News/Talk Radio Shows of 2025. In the publisher’s annual accolades, The Mitch Albom Show was named #1 Afternoon Show, Focus with Paul W. Smith ranked #5 among Midday Shows, and ‘JR Morning with Chris Renwick, Lloyd Jackson, and Jamie Edmonds placed #13 among Morning Shows.

“These recognitions speak to the dedication and talent of our entire team,” said Steve Finateri, Cumulus Media regional vice president and market manager. “Mitch, Paul, Chris, Lloyd, and Jamie each bring something uniquely valuable to our listeners every day, and seeing their work honored on a national scale underscores the impact they make. We’re grateful to have such exceptional broadcasters representing WJR and serving Michigan with distinction.”

Barrett Media operates as a national publishing and consulting group focused on the sports, news, and music media industries. Established in 2015, the company produces daily reporting, analysis, and commentary for broadcasting professionals and provides strategic guidance to media organizations on programming, talent development, and audience growth.

Its annual Top 20 rankings are compiled using ballots from a wide network of industry leaders, including program directors and corporate executives from major broadcasting groups such as Audacy, iHeart, Cumulus, Cox Media Group, Townsquare Media, and Hubbard Radio. These voters evaluate shows based on factors like originality, ratings performance, multi‑platform reach, and overall industry influence. Barrett Media itself does not cast votes; it organizes the panel, collects submissions, and publishes the final lists.