Audible & iHeartMedia Launch “Earsay” Podcast Club | Ed Helms & Kal Penn Lead Star-Packed Audiobook Series
The world of audio entertainment just got louder — and a lot more glamorous. In a groundbreaking collaboration that merges celebrity culture with immersive storytelling, Audible and iHeartMedia have unveiled a brand-new listening experience for audiobook lovers: 🎧 “Earsay: The Audible and iHeart Audiobook Club.”
This limited podcast series, produced by iHeart’s branded content studio Ruby, promises to redefine the way audiences discover and discuss audiobooks — bringing together Hollywood stars, podcast hosts, and audio storytellers for candid, entertaining, and inspiring conversations.
While the iHeartRadio app isn’t traditionally known for audiobooks, this collaboration is a major step into that world. “Earsay” serves as a bridge between audiobooks and podcast culture, giving millions of listeners access to curated audio storytelling without ever leaving the iHeart ecosystem.
The partnership marks a strategic expansion for both media giants:
For Audible – it’s an opportunity to connect with podcast audiences already tuned in to spoken-word entertainment.
For iHeartMedia – it strengthens their foothold in the rapidly growing audiobook space, appealing to both pop culture fans and serious readers.
For listeners – it’s a chance to explore award-winning audio productions, celebrity recommendations, and behind-the-scenes insights into storytelling craft.
Meet the Hosts: Ed Helms and Kal Penn Bring Wit and Warmth
“Earsay” is hosted by two of Hollywood’s most charismatic personalities — Ed Helms (The Office, The Hangover) and Kal Penn (Harold & Kumar, House). Both are longtime audio lovers and self-described “story junkies,” perfectly suited to lead an audiobook discussion that balances humor, curiosity, and intellect.
What Makes the Duo Dynamic
Ed Helms brings comedic sharpness and an everyman relatability that makes conversations feel spontaneous and engaging.
Kal Penn, with his background in both acting and politics, adds depth and thoughtful commentary on storytelling, diversity, and media evolution.
Together, they create a casual, friendly, book-club-meets-celebrity-roundtable vibe — the kind of podcast that feels like eavesdropping on your favorite stars discussing their latest obsessions.
Episode One: Jennie Garth and the Modern “Pride and Prejudice”
The debut episode of Earsay features Jennie Garth, beloved for her role in Beverly Hills, 90210 and now host of the “I Choose Me” podcast. Garth joins Helms and Penn to discuss the Audible Original adaptation of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice.”
This isn’t your grandmother’s Austen. The new version reimagines the classic romance with modern sensibilities, diverse voices, and a sharper lens on female independence and social identity — while keeping the timeless wit and emotional depth that make Austen’s work endure.
Highlights from the Episode
Behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Pride and Prejudice audiobook
How modern performances bring new meaning to iconic characters
Jennie Garth’s personal reflections on love, self-worth, and reinvention
Ed and Kal’s humorous yet insightful debate on whether Pride and Prejudice is the “ultimate comfort listen”
The first episode is now streaming on iHeartRadio, Audible, and all major podcast platforms, with new episodes dropping biweekly on Thursdays.
What’s Next for “Earsay”: Future Guests and Titles to Watch
The series isn’t stopping at literary classics. Upcoming episodes promise an eclectic lineup of creators, authors, and performers who are shaping the future of audio storytelling.
Among the teased guests is Randy McKinnon, creator of “The Prophecy,” an Audible Original supernatural thriller about a woman confronting otherworldly forces in a battle to save humanity’s future.
Expect future episodes to feature:
Exclusive previews of new Audible Originals
Behind-the-scenes stories from producers, narrators, and writers
Candid discussions about the emotional and creative process behind storytelling
Surprise celebrity appearances from both Hollywood and the literary world
In short: it’s a book club reimagined for the streaming age, where stories aren’t just read — they’re heard, felt, and lived.
iHeart’s Expanding Universe: “SNAFU with Ed Helms” Returns for Season Four
In a related announcement, iHeartPodcasts also confirmed the launch of Season 4 of “SNAFU with Ed Helms.” Produced by SNAFU Media — a collaboration between Helms’ Pacific Electric Picture Company and FilmNation Entertainment — this hit series dives into history’s most memorable blunders with humor and humanity.
Each episode is a “bite-sized SNAFU” — a historical fiasco told through comedy and reflection, exploring what these screwups reveal about the human condition.
Why SNAFU Stands Out
Unique storytelling approach blending fact, wit, and moral lessons
Celebrity guest hosts who join Ed Helms to dissect iconic failures
Educational yet entertaining tone appealing to both history buffs and casual listeners
The new season coincides with the success of Helms’ bestselling book, “SNAFU: The Definitive Guide to History’s Greatest Screwups.” The book expands on the podcast’s themes, offering even more outrageous stories from history — from wartime missteps to political fiascos.
Audible + iHeartMedia: A Partnership Rooted in Innovation
This collaboration represents more than just a marketing tie-up — it’s a strategic alignment between two audio powerhouses at the forefront of storytelling innovation.
Why This Partnership Matters
Expanding the Audio Universe: Listeners increasingly blur the line between podcasts, audiobooks, and narrative entertainment. Earsay capitalizes on that trend.
Diversifying Discovery: The podcast format allows new listeners to sample audiobooks without commitment — a gateway for deeper engagement with Audible’s catalog.
Brand Synergy: iHeart’s massive reach (over 250 million monthly listeners) gives Audible exposure to audiences who may not yet be audiobook subscribers.
Industry analysts view this as a “win-win for both brands,” positioning them as dual leaders in the spoken-word entertainment revolution.
Celebrity-Driven Audio: The Future of Storytelling
The rise of celebrity-led audio projects marks a significant cultural shift. With stars like Reese Witherspoon, Idris Elba, and Emma Thompson producing or narrating audio content, the format has evolved from a niche hobby to a mainstream entertainment medium.
What’s Driving the Boom
Accessibility: You can listen anywhere — on commutes, workouts, or while cooking dinner.
Intimacy: The human voice creates a personal connection unmatched by visual media.
Diversity: Audio storytelling now includes voices from every background, genre, and perspective.
The success of Earsay could inspire a new generation of hybrid formats — blending the talk-show appeal of podcasts with the narrative richness of audiobooks.
A Golden Age for Listeners
Whether you’re a lifelong audiobook aficionado or a casual podcast listener, Earsay represents something bigger: A fusion of entertainment and intellect, where stories come alive through conversation.
With Ed Helms and Kal Penn steering the ship, backed by iHeart’s production power and Audible’s storytelling expertise, this series is poised to dominate the audio charts and redefine how audiences engage with literature in the digital age.
How to Listen
You can stream Earsay: The Audible and iHeart Audiobook Club now on:
iHeartRadio App
Audible
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
Google Podcasts
New episodes release every other Thursday, ensuring a steady rhythm of star-studded conversations and storytelling discovery.
Final Thoughts: A New Soundtrack for the Soul
“Earsay” is more than a podcast — it’s a celebration of the power of listening. In an age of endless scrolling and screen fatigue, this series reminds us that the spoken word still holds magic. Through humor, humanity, and heart, Audible and iHeartMedia have created something rare — an entertainment experience that informs, inspires, and unites.
