January will bring sweeping changes to WPHT (1210 AM) as it moves Michael Smerconish to afternoons to accommodate the host’s desire to concentrate on his syndicated program that airs in the afternoon and drops two major national shows hosted by Glenn Beck and Sean Hannity. Smerconish, a fixture on 1210 and the best of all radio hosts, has been the station’s morning personality for several years. During his tenure, he launched a syndicated show. In January it will be carried by ’PHT from 3- 7 p.m. weekdays, supplanting Hannity.
Replacing Smerconish in the 5-9 a.m. drive time will be a new show, locally produced, featuring Chris Stigall, who comes from KCMO in Kansas City where he was the morning anchor of a talk program since 2006.
The biggest surprise in 1210’s announcements is the dropping of Glenn Beck at 9 a.m.-noon, when station veteran Dom Giordano, the epitome of on-the-air-whenever- you-want-him, takes the time slot. Beck is a national figure of great controversy and influence. He helped build ’PHT as much as Smerconish and more than Giordano. His absence come January will be a big loss and will probably benefit another local talk station that will use Beck’s program to build its reputation.
The man who rejuvenated and set the tone for talk radio, Rush Limbaugh, will continue to be heard on ’PHT from noon-3 p.m. weekdays.
1210’s move is definitely toward more local radio. Stigall will be based at ’PHT, Smerconish, though syndicated, will broadcast from Philly, and Giordano is Philadelphia to his marrow. One hour of Smerconish’s program will be heard only in Philly and produced for the local audience.
Sean Hannity may not be missed, but he is another who might boost another station. He and Beck are national radio icons. Their dismissal by 1210 leaves an opportunity for a rival, especially at 9 when Beck prevails.
