This week in podcasting, platforms are making major moves. Apple is reshaping how we engage with serialized storytelling through its Podcasts app update, while Audacy’s post-bankruptcy comeback is setting the stage for growth. Netflix is turning the spotlight on podcasters with its latest series, and the industry celebrated International Podcast Day this past week, recognizing the global impact of the medium. Meanwhile, Acast’s new study highlights the increasing influence of podcast ads on consumer behavior, further demonstrating podcasting's power.

As always, we’re here to keep you informed on the latest industry trends and moments that matter.

With gratitude,
Casey Adams
Founder, Listener.com

🎧 Podcasting News & Highlights

Discover the Latest Trends, Exclusive Interviews, and Industry Updates

Apple Updates Podcasts App with Story-Driven Narratives

Apple is elevating storytelling with its latest Podcasts app update. The new “Series” category, a Top Series chart, and the Series Essentials program spotlight narrative-driven podcasts like never before. This update emphasizes serialized content that stays with listeners long after the episode ends, across genres from true crime to business and fiction.

Featured series like Ghost Story represent the cutting edge of podcast storytelling, handpicked by Apple’s editors. Read more.

BlueWire Partners with The 33rd Team to Expand Sports Podcast Offerings

Five months after signing deals with Cam Newton, Lou Williams, and J.R. Smith, BlueWire is taking another major step forward. The network has partnered with The 33rd Team, an NFL-focused website boasting a star-studded roster of former and current players and coaches. This partnership will bring The 33rd Team’s popular shows — including St. Brown Podcast featuring Amon-Ra and Equanimeous St. Brown, Check The Mic with Steve Palazzolo & Sam Monson, and NFL Spotlight with Ari Meirov — under BlueWire’s umbrella. This marks a significant expansion for BlueWire into the world of sports podcasting. Read more.

Podeo Raises $5.4M to Expand Globally

Podcasting continues to boom, with over half a billion global listeners last year, and the Arab world emerging as a key market. Dubai-based Podeo, a leading podcast distribution platform, has capitalized on this growth by raising $5.4 million in Series A funding to expand into Latin America, Eastern Europe, and Southeast Asia.

Founded by Stefano Fallaha, Podeo has grown from a high school project into a crucial platform for authentic storytelling. After the Beirut explosion in 2020, Podeo’s mission gained even more significance. The platform now supports over 100,000 creators with end-to-end production tools and aims to eliminate subscription fees by focusing solely on ad revenue. Read more.

Audacy Emerges from Bankruptcy, Eyes Growth

Audacy has successfully emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy, slashing its debt by 80% to $350 million. According to CEO David Field, this restructuring sets the stage for future growth, with plans to enhance its podcast business and streaming platform.

Audacy’s adjusted earnings grew 128% in the first half of 2024, providing a solid foundation for new content investments and strategic growth in the audio industry. Read more.

Acast Study: Podcast Ads Drive Consumer Behavior

Acast’s latest global podcast listener report revealed that more than half of daily listeners worldwide have made purchases based on podcast ads. In both emerging and established markets, podcast engagement continues to grow, with nearly 70% of daily listeners in established regions spending over six hours a week with podcasts.

In the U.S., 81.2% of podcast listeners say they’re highly engaged, surpassing the 78% who report similar engagement with streaming TV. This growing trend is reshaping how advertisers connect with consumers. Read more.

Netflix’s ‘Nobody Wants This’ Shines Spotlight on a Podcaster’s Life

Netflix’s new series Nobody Wants This explores the unexpected love story of a sex podcaster and a newly single rabbi, bringing humor and heart to the screen. Starring Kristen Bell, Adam Brody, and Justine Lupe, the series promises a fresh take on relationships with all the emotional highs and lows of real life. Read more.

📰 Press-Worthy Moments

Stay informed with the latest highlights and news making waves in the podcasting world.

Press-Worthy Moments

• Andrew Huberman reveals the size of his media team.

• Dave Ramsey interviews Donald Trump.

• The founder of Hyperice joins The Casey Adams Show.

• The 'Hawk Tuah' Creator's Podcast ranks No. 5 on Spotify.

• How to generate an AI podcast using Google’s NotebookLM.

Follow us on Instagram @listener to stay up to date with all things podcasting news. Have news to share? Reply to this email or reach out at [email protected] to get featured!

Partner Spotlight

We are thrilled to introduce our newest partner, Acast, the world’s largest podcast company. Acast connects nearly 125,000 podcasts with audiences globally, offering a diverse catalog of high-quality content.

About Acast

Since 2014, Acast has been creating the world’s most valuable podcast marketplace, building the technology that connects podcast creators, advertisers, and listeners. Its marketplace spans nearly 125,000 podcasts, 2,700 advertisers, and approximately 400 million monthly listens. Crucially, those listens are monetized wherever they happen - across any podcasting app or other listening platform.

The company operates worldwide and is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden. Acast is listed on the Nasdaq First North Premier Growth Market (ACAST.ST).

For podcasters looking to grow and monetize their shows, we highly recommend checking out Acast. Their innovative technology and extensive reach make them an invaluable partner in the podcasting world. Learn more.

🔗 Stay Connected

Follow us on Instagram for updates and exclusive content:

• @listener: Company announcements and news

• @podcastnetwork: Clips from our internal podcasts

• @pods: Join our community of podcast enthusiasts

At Listener.com, we are dedicated to pioneering the future of podcasting through innovative services, cutting-edge technology, and compelling media.

We value your feedback! Share your thoughts and suggestions with us via social media or by replying directly to this email. Thank you for being an integral part of our community!

With gratitude,

Casey Adams
Founder & CEO, Listener.com

Our Partners