Racket Launches New App for 99-Second Micro Podcasts

The Challenge of Podcast Discovery and Racket's Solution

The increasing popularity of podcasts and audio-based entertainment is undeniable. However, a significant hurdle remains: discoverability. While successful podcasts thrive, gaining traction for new shows proves remarkably difficult.

Introducing Racket: Audio Snippets in a TikTok-Style Feed

Racket, now available on the App Store for iOS, aims to address this challenge. It presents audio content in a dynamic, vertical feed reminiscent of TikTok, featuring snippets capped at 99 seconds in length.

The app simplifies content creation. Users can readily edit audio, assign relevant tags, upload a cover image, and publish their work—often within a minute.

Securing Funding for Growth

Racket has announced a $3 million pre-seed funding round. Investors include Greycroft, Foundation Capital, and LightShed Ventures.

Notable angel investors, such as YouTuber LaurDIY, Jason Calacanis, and Steve Schlafman, have also contributed to this funding.

These funds will be allocated to expanding the engineering team, refining the app’s design, and bolstering trust and safety measures.

From Capiche to Racket: A Team's Evolution

The Racket team initially collaborated on Capiche, a software review company. This company was acquired by Vendr, a SaaS-buying platform, in April of this year.

Following the acquisition, the team remained intact and began exploring opportunities in the audio space, ultimately leading to the creation of Racket.

The Untapped Potential of User-Generated Audio

Austin Petersmith, Racket’s CEO, emphasizes the vast, unrealized potential within user-created audio content.

In an interview with TechCrunch, Petersmith drew a parallel between podcasting and video creation, noting that while millions create videos on platforms like TikTok, the number of podcasters remains comparatively small.

Addressing Barriers to Entry in Audio

The Racket team recognizes existing obstacles that hinder participation in audio content creation.

“Having a limited group of individuals producing this content seems unusual,” Petersmith stated. “It’s exceedingly challenging for new podcasts to gain visibility.”

Racket's Approach: Short Format and Easy Discovery

Racket seeks to lower these barriers by adopting a shorter format, streamlining the editing process, and prioritizing discoverability.

By limiting audio snippets to 99 seconds, the app encourages spontaneous storytelling and humor, removing the pressure of producing highly polished, lengthy shows.

Accessibility and Simplicity

“We’ve strived to minimize the pressure, allowing users to feel comfortable with imperfections and without requiring professional equipment,” Petersmith explained, comparing Racket’s format to a “tweet-length podcast.”

Discovery and Community

Users can connect with known individuals, but Racket primarily focuses on facilitating the discovery of new content.

The app allows users to search for “Rackets” using relevant tags or simply browse the feed to explore available audio.

“We aim to broaden the reach for individuals with compelling insights who might not otherwise have a platform to share their ideas,” Petersmith said.

Early Community Engagement

As with any social platform, Racket’s success hinges on the content created by its users.

During its testing phase, the team observed a growing community of comedians embracing the format and inviting their peers to participate.

Petersmith anticipates that other communities will organically adopt the platform as they recognize its unique benefits.

An Active Listening Experience

While podcasts are often enjoyed during routine activities like commuting or chores, Racket offers a more interactive experience, similar to TikTok, but focused on audio.

Users can actively swipe through content, engage in comments, or simply allow the feed to play automatically.

For those who find traditional podcasts too lengthy, this format may prove particularly appealing.

A Platform for Audio-Focused Engagement

“Our goal is to provide a space for individuals who prefer not to constantly stare at a screen,” Petersmith concluded.