CRN Digital Talk Radio Networks

CRN Digital Talk Radio Networks

Company type	Private
Industry	Radio broadcasting, Syndication
Founded	1983
Founder	Michael Horn
Headquarters	Los Angeles , United States
Key people	Michael Horn (CEO)
Products	Radio programming, Talk radio networks, Online magazine
Website	crntalk.com

CRN Digital Talk Radio Networks, commonly referred to as CRN or CRN Digital Talk, functions as a syndicator and distributor specializing in radio programming and talk radio networks.

History

Established in 1983 by Michael Horn, who serves as CEO, the company originally operated under the name Cable Radio Network. Its initial focus was delivering commercial radio content to local cable television systems. Horn, then an on-air host at Los Angeles’ KFI AM, recognized a potential market after discovering that the Los Angeles station KMET was accessible via a Phoenix cable channel.

Collaborating with King Cable, a cable provider in San Fernando Valley, Horn launched a country music channel which later transitioned to an oldies format to attract a wider audience. The service expanded its reach by partnering with additional cable operators such as Valley Cable and Falcon Cable, eventually securing placements on numerous Electronic Program Guides across the country.

Originally relying on telephone lines for its broadcasts, Horn invested in satellite technology to lower transmission expenses. This shift led to the rebranding from "Cable Radio Network" to "CRN Networks." As competitors like Digital Planet and DMX introduced noncommercial music channels, CRN strategically shifted focus toward talk radio, adopting the names "CRN Talk" and later "CRN Digital Talk Radio" in 2007. Despite these changes, the corporate entity remains Cable Radio Networks, Inc.

Market analysis commissioned by Horn revealed that CRN's audience size was on par with prominent networks including MSNBC, Cinemax, and Fox Sports, highlighting its significant presence in the industry.

In 2013, CRN broadened its portfolio by launching CRN Digital Magazine, an online publication delivering lifestyle and entertainment content created by CRN’s own personalities.

Programming

CRN develops content internally and collaborates with external broadcasters. It operates eight distinct audio channels: a primary feed featuring predominantly in-house productions; direct feeds from networks such as Sports Byline USA, The Answer, and Compass Media Networks; a simulcast of XEAAA-AM, a female-focused Spanish-language station based in Guadalajara, Mexico; plus a timeshift channel that rebroadcasts select programs. Distribution primarily occurs through cable providers, comparable to services like Music Choice, but also extends via C band satellite, terrestrial stations nationwide, and online platforms.

Among its early talk shows were “Polka Parade” hosted by Dick Sinclair and George Putnam’s exclusive “Talk Back.” The weekly program Lifestyles Live was hosted by former Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson co-host Ed McMahon. Mike Horn, CRN’s president, has emphasized the network’s commitment to providing distinctive programming not available elsewhere.

Original productions included Don Ecker’s “UFOs Tonight” and James "Shadowe" Boone’s wrestling-themed show “Squared Circle.”

In June 2015, CRN became the broadcast home for libertarian media figure Larry Elder’s radio program, which was subsequently added to national syndication by Salem Radio Network.

Actor Robert Conrad hosted a show on CRN until his passing in 2020; similarly, Barry Farber was a host until his death that same year. The network’s diverse lineup also features lifestyle programs such as the "What's Cookin'" food and wine series.

External links

• Official CRN Website
• CRN Online Magazine