Netflix Expands Podcast Strategy With Exclusive Barstool Sports Video Deal
Netflix is accelerating its transformation from a traditional streaming platform into a full-spectrum digital entertainment hub. In a bold new move, the streaming giant has signed a multi-year video podcast partnership with Barstool Sports, bringing some of the most popular sports podcasts in the U.S. exclusively to Netflix in video form starting in early 2026.
The deal signals a decisive expansion of Netflix’s podcast ambitions—particularly in the fast-growing video podcast space—while cementing Barstool’s position as a dominant voice in sports and pop culture commentary.
Video episodes of select Barstool Sports podcasts will debut exclusively on Netflix (U.S.)
International markets will roll out in phases
Select archive episodes will also be available
Audio versions remain widely distributed across major podcast platforms
This hybrid distribution model ensures creators retain reach while Netflix secures exclusive video engagement—an increasingly valuable currency in the streaming wars.
Podcasts Coming Exclusively to Netflix
The deal focuses on Barstool’s biggest and most commercially powerful franchises:
1. Pardon My Take
Barstool’s flagship sports podcast and one of the most listened-to sports shows in the world.
A mainstay of long-form sports discussion and insider commentary.
Host: Ryen Russillo
Release schedule: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Content: Deep dives into sports news, media analysis, interviews
3. Spittin’ Chiclets
A cult-favorite hockey podcast with crossover appeal.
Hosts: Ryan Whitney, Paul Bissonnette, and Rear Admiral
Focus: NHL news, locker-room stories, pop culture
New episodes every Tuesday
While Barstool produces nearly 100 podcasts, only select high-impact shows are included—making Netflix the exclusive home for Barstool’s most valuable video podcast IP.
Barstool Founder Dave Portnoy Reacts
Barstool founder Dave Portnoy framed the partnership as mutually beneficial, emphasizing audience expansion rather than platform restriction.
“We’re excited to partner with Netflix and hopefully bring new audiences to each platform,” Portnoy said in the announcement.
For Barstool, Netflix’s global scale offers unmatched exposure. For Netflix, Barstool delivers built-in fandoms, viral moments, and culturally influential voices—exactly what modern streaming platforms crave.
Netflix’s Podcast Strategy: Why Now?
Netflix’s move into video podcasts is not experimental—it’s strategic.
Key Drivers Behind the Push
Subscriber retention in a saturated streaming market
Demand for always-on, personality-driven content
Growth of YouTube-style long-form video consumption
Podcasts as lower-cost, high-engagement programming
Netflix has increasingly emphasized engagement hours, not just view counts. Podcasts—especially sports and talk formats—excel at keeping viewers watching longer.
Netflix Executive Perspective
Lauren Smith, Netflix’s Vice President, highlighted the platform’s vision behind the deal:
“This partnership broadens how our members connect with Barstool’s leading sports voices and delivers exactly what our members crave: unfiltered commentary, sharp takes, and undeniable humor.”
Her statement reinforces Netflix’s intent to position itself as a destination for conversation-driven entertainment, not just scripted shows and films.
Second Major Sports Podcast Deal for Netflix
This agreement marks Netflix’s second major sports podcast expansion, following its earlier announcement of a co-exclusive partnership with Spotify.
Spotify & The Ringer Deal Highlights
Video episodes from Spotify Studios and The Ringer will also debut on Netflix, including:
The Bill Simmons Podcast
The Zach Lowe Show
The McShay Show
The Ringer NBA Show
The Ringer NFL Show
The Ringer Fantasy Football Show
Fairway Rollin’
The Mismatch
The Ringer F1 Show
This deal blends early video access with ongoing audio distribution, further validating Netflix’s hybrid podcast model.
Beyond Sports: Netflix Partners With iHeartMedia
Netflix’s ambitions extend well beyond sports.
In another major move, the streamer signed a deal with iHeartMedia to bring more than 15 top podcasts to the platform in video form.
Popular Titles in the iHeart Deal
The Breakfast Club
My Favorite Murder
Stuff You Should Know
Stuff They Don’t Want You to Know
Stuff You Missed in History Class
Once again, audio remains widely available, but video exclusivity belongs to Netflix—a consistent theme across all deals.
Why Video Podcasts Are the Future of Streaming
The line between podcasts, talk shows, and streaming content is rapidly dissolving.
Why Platforms Are Betting Big on Video Podcasts
Cheaper than scripted originals
Loyal, repeat audiences
Highly shareable clips
Strong advertising and sponsorship potential
Ideal for mobile and background viewing
Netflix’s move mirrors audience behavior already thriving on platforms like YouTube and TikTok—but with premium production and curated discovery.
What This Means for Creators and the Industry
For creators, Netflix offers:
Massive global reach
Prestige branding
Long-term stability through licensing deals
For Netflix, podcasts provide:
Frequent content drops
Cultural relevance
Strong community engagement
Industry insiders suggest Netflix is already in talks with additional podcast networks and Hollywood talent agencies, aiming to launch 2026 with a deep and diverse video podcast catalog.
Netflix Leadership Signals Long-Term Commitment
During an earnings call in October, Netflix Co-CEO Greg Peters made it clear that podcasts are no longer a side experiment.
He noted that video podcasts could significantly enhance Netflix’s offering across:
Sports
Lifestyle
Pop culture
True crime
News and commentary
The implication is clear: If subscribers embrace video podcasts, Netflix will scale aggressively.
A Turning Point for Streaming Content
Netflix’s Barstool Sports deal is more than a licensing agreement—it’s a declaration of intent.
As traditional TV struggles, scripted content becomes costlier, and audiences crave authenticity, podcasts represent the perfect evolution of modern entertainment.
By locking in top creators early, Netflix is positioning itself not just as a streamer—but as the future home of digital conversation.
What to Watch Next
Additional podcast partnerships expected soon
Expansion into non-English markets
More creator-led formats and live podcast experiments
Deeper monetization through ads and sponsorships
2026 may well be the year video podcasts go fully mainstream—and Netflix wants to lead that charge.
