In a major expansion of its news footprint, Red Apple Media Owner and CEO John Catsimatidis today announced the launch of The Worldwide News Network, a new global audio news platform created to deliver fair, balanced, and real-time reporting to listeners across the United States and around the world.
To spearhead the initiative, Red Apple Media has recruited one of broadcasting’s most respected news minds, National Radio Hall of Fame inductee Lee Harris, who joins the company as Vice President of News for WABC Radio and The Worldwide News Network.
The move positions WABC Radio and Red Apple Audio Networks for a dramatic next chapter, transforming the iconic New York news/talk station’s reach into a 24/7 global audio news presence fueled by streaming technology, smart speakers, mobile platforms, syndication, and digital distribution.
“Today’s digital technology gives us the power to deliver the truth instantly, not just across America, but across Europe and around the globe,” said Catsimatidis. “WABC Radio is already heard in all 50 states and in 178 countries through our multi-platform distribution. The Worldwide News Network is the natural next step in building a global destination for fair, balanced, no-nonsense news people can trust.”
“Audio news consumption is no longer confined by geography, signal strength, or time zone,” said Chad Lopez, President of Red Apple Media and WABC Radio. “Listeners want immediate access to credible reporting wherever they are, whenever news breaks. Lee is one of the most respected and accomplished news professionals in the business, and there is no one better equipped to help build this operation into a global audio news force.”
Harris brings more than 30 years of high-level newsroom leadership and frontline journalism experience to the newly created role. His background spans major market radio, cable television, international media consulting, and on-air reporting at some of America’s most recognized news organizations.
“John Catsimatidis has never thought small, and this venture is no exception,” Harris said. “The Worldwide News Network is an ambitious, forward-looking news platform designed for how people consume information today. I am thrilled to join Red Apple Media and WABC Radio at such a transformational moment and help build a news organization with both national strength and international reach.”
Harris spent a distinguished 30-year run as morning newscaster at 1010 WINS in New York, where his calm and authoritative delivery made him one of the most trusted voices in radio. He was among the broadcasters New Yorkers leaned on during the terror attacks of September 11, 2001, providing steady live reporting as millions sought urgent information.
Beyond the U.S., Harris has advised broadcasters throughout Europe and Asia, helped launch Moscow’s Kommersant FM as a U.S.-style all-news station, lectured across China through the University of Missouri School of Journalism, and served as Director of Integrated Operations and New York Bureau Chief for cable startup NewsNation.
His induction into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2024 further cemented his reputation as one of the most accomplished and trusted figures in American broadcast journalism.
The Worldwide News Network will be developed as a full-scale international audio news service distributed across broadcast radio, streaming channels, mobile apps, smart speakers, podcasts, affiliate platforms, and worldwide syndication partners.