Netflix to License iHeartMedia Video Podcasts - Report

Netflix Explores Licensing Video Podcasts from iHeartMedia

Reports from Bloomberg indicate that Netflix is currently engaged in discussions to secure licensing agreements for video podcasts originating from iHeartMedia.

iHeartMedia’s extensive podcast network features popular programs such as “The Breakfast Club,” “Las Culturistas,” “Jay Shetty Podcast,” and the informative “Stuff You Should Know.”

Potential Exclusivity and Content Restrictions

Netflix is reportedly seeking exclusive rights to the licensed content. This would mean that video podcasts acquired from iHeartMedia might subsequently be removed from platforms like YouTube.

However, it’s important to understand that any potential agreement may not encompass iHeartMedia’s complete podcast library.

Following a Similar Deal with Spotify

This development arrives shortly after Netflix finalized a comparable arrangement with Spotify. This collaboration will introduce a carefully selected range of podcasts – spanning sports, culture, lifestyle, and true crime – from Spotify Studios and The Ringer to Netflix’s platform.

Podcast Availability and Platform Strategy

As part of the Spotify agreement, podcasts featured on Netflix will be taken down from YouTube, while continuing to be accessible on Spotify itself.

Notably, certain high-profile Spotify shows, including “The Joe Rogan Experience,” will maintain their presence on YouTube.

Competition with YouTube in the Podcast Space

These video podcast acquisitions represent a strategic move for Netflix to enhance its competitive standing against YouTube.

YouTube has recently emerged as the leading platform for video podcast consumption, having exceeded 1 billion monthly active podcast viewers earlier in the year.

Netflix aims to capture a larger share of this growing audience through these content partnerships.