🎙️This Week in Podcasting: Bussin’ With The Boys Departs Barstool, PodcastOne Targets $100M, and Acast Predicts 2025 Trends

Podcasting is kicking off 2025 strong, with Acast predicting the year’s biggest trends, PodcastOne targeting $100 million in revenue, and Alex Cooper expanding Unwell Network with new true crime and lifestyle hits.

Excited to see how these moves shape the industry and to keep sharing insights with you each week.

—Casey Adams
Founder, Listener.com

Acast’s Hot 25 for 2025 Predicts the Year’s Biggest Podcasting Trends

Acast’s Hot 25 for 2025 is here to guide podcast professionals and enthusiasts through the trends that will dominate the industry this year. From the cultural and political influence of podcasts to the explosion of AI-driven content, this list captures the pulse of a rapidly evolving medium. Notable themes include the rise of podcast influencers, the success of women’s sports podcasts, and the transformation of campaigns into award-winning, multi-format executions. With over 25 insightful predictions, Acast provides a roadmap to navigating 2025’s opportunities and challenges in podcasting. As they aptly put it, “If you don’t know where you’re going, you might wind up someplace else.”

PodcastOne Expands Programming and Targets $100 Million Revenue

PodcastOne has been named the 8th largest U.S. podcast publisher by Podtrac for December 2024, a milestone fueled by its impressive 3.8 billion network downloads and a programming slate now totaling 194 shows. The network has renewed partnerships with flagship hosts like Adam Carolla and has strategically teamed up with Amazon’s ART19 to streamline operations and unlock new revenue streams. With a $100 million revenue target set for the next two to four years, PodcastOne’s growth trajectory demonstrates the power of combining compelling content with robust operational strategy.

Alex Cooper’s Unwell Network Adds True Crime and Lifestyle Hits

Alex Cooper’s Unwell Network is making strategic moves, acquiring two high-performing podcasts to diversify its offerings. Going West, a true crime show hosted by Daphne Woolsoncroft and Heath Merryman, brings its gripping storytelling and a loyal audience to the network. Meanwhile, Cheers! offers a fresh take on lifestyle and culture, with Avery Woods providing insights and weekly guest features. With Going West airing twice weekly and Cheers! launching every Monday, these acquisitions position Unwell Network as a destination for engaging, genre-spanning content.

Google’s AI Podcast Hosts Get a Human Touch

Google’s NotebookLM continues to push boundaries with AI-generated podcasts, but not without some hiccups. A viral new feature called “Interactive Mode” lets users call in and engage with the AI hosts. However, initial feedback revealed the AI could be, well, a bit snippy. Responses like, “I was getting to that,” left users feeling like they were interrupting the hosts. Google has since refined the AI’s conversational tone, focusing on creating seamless interactions that feel natural and engaging. As VP of Google Labs Josh Woodward explained, “We’re ensuring AI doesn’t feel adversarial—it’s about enhancing the experience, not competing with humans.”

The Yellowstone Official Podcast Brings Fans Closer to the Action

Launching January 23, the Yellowstone Official Podcast gives fans an exclusive audio companion to the smash-hit series. Hosted by Bobby Bones, the eight-episode limited series dives into the Dutton family drama with in-depth recaps and behind-the-scenes insights. The first episode features Wendy Moniz (Senator Lynelle Perry) and sets the stage for weekly deep dives into the iconic show. Available on iHeartRadio and major platforms, this collaboration between iHeartPodcasts, MTV Entertainment Studios, and 101 Studios is a must-listen for the show’s dedicated fanbase.

Bussin’ With The Boys Departs Barstool Sports

The pioneering NFL podcast Bussin’ With The Boys, hosted by former players Will Compton and Taylor Lewan, is leaving Barstool Sports. Speculation around their departure had been swirling, especially after Barstool owner Dave Portnoy expressed hesitancy in celebrating their involvement in a network series due to rumors of their exit. Portnoy confirmed their departure during a recent podcast livestream, though Compton and Lewan have yet to announce their next move. The departure highlights a shifting dynamic in the creator-network relationship as top talent explores greater independence and new opportunities.

This week, we’re spotlighting the power of collaboration through our most engaging posts on the Listener.com Instagram page. Here are three standout moments that captured the attention of our community:

• Mel Robbins x SiriusXM News: Our post celebrating Mel Robbins reaching the #1 spot on Apple Podcasts resonated with audiences, highlighting the power of The Mel Robbins Podcast and its transformative impact, powered by SiriusXM.

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Until next week, keep listening.

—The Listener.com Team