Howard doesn't get arrested for drug use. He doesn't get sued for slander, for invasion of privacy or for violating clear-cut FCC regulations or for endangering public safety. The biggest risk that Howard presents to his affiliate stations comes from the wrath of the FCC in regard to perceived violations of the highly subjective 'indecency' rules. Stern's style of radio is listener-intensive. Instead of repulsing advertisers, Stern should be attracting more and commanding higher ad rates than shows that garner similar ratings.
Ratings measure the number of people listening.
They don't measure impact. Stern, however, commands attention. His fans are passionately loyal, and many will do anything to promote him. There are hundreds of other examples of Stern supporters doing most anything to get his name on national television. Stern's audience usually supports his nonradio efforts.