In blockbuster podcast deal, Spotify acquires Gimlet Media and Anchor

Spotify has acquired not one, but two podcasting companies. The rumor mill hinted this week that the streaming company was in negotiations for podcast producer Gimlet Media, and that is one of the purchases. But Spotify has also acquired Anchor, a straightforward service that lets anyone start creating, distributing, and monetizing podcasts. Continue Reading

James Cridland’s International Radio Trends: Does a TV channel show radio’s future? And, radio revenues up – mostly

by James Cridland

James Cridland’s International Radio Trends is a column by the Australia-based radio futurologist. THIS WEEK: James draws some connections between radio and live television. Lots of UK news this week, including a look at BBC Sounds and the loss of Jeremy Hardy. Continue Reading

Ben Shapiro loses podcast sponsors after live event, bringing a new spin to “brand safety”

Political podcaster Ben Shapiro, recently noted in RAIN News for his wide syndicated extension into broadcast radio, has lost two sponsors after a live podcast performance at a Right To Life rally. The fallout shines a new light on brand safety — a constant concern in advertising that messaging does not appear connected to controversial content. Continue Reading

RAJAR Midas winter 2018 results: More digital, more smartphones, plus a small but mighty podcast cohort

The winter results from the RAJAR Midas survey have brought another flurry of insight into how the UK is consuming audio. Live radio has a 90% reach for audio formats, just trailing any TV with 91% reach. Online video/audio clips took a distant third place with 33% reach, while on-demand music services posted 25% and podcasts 12%. Continue Reading

James Cridland’s International Radio Trends: Fortunately goes exclusive to the BBC Sounds app; and adblocking comes to the radio

by James Cridland

James Cridland’s International Radio Trends is a column by the Australia-based radio futurologist. THIS WEEK: James takes a deep dive on the BBC and Fortunately. Other updates on audio come from France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and more. Continue Reading