iHeartMedia Brings Top Podcasts to Netflix in Exclusive Video Deal
iHeartMedia has announced an exclusive partnership with Netflix to bring more than 15 of its leading podcasts to the video streaming platform. The deal, which will launch in early 2026, positions Netflix as the new home for video versions of top-rated shows while keeping audio episodes widely available on traditional podcast platforms.
This strategic alliance reflects the growing convergence of audio and video entertainment, as both companies aim to capture a larger share of audiences seeking dynamic, personality-driven content.
Podcasting has been one of the fastest-growing media segments over the past two decades. With this deal, iHeartMedia CEO Bob Pittman hopes to capitalize on Netflix’s global reach and video-first experience:
“Audio podcasting has been the fastest-growing medium over the past 20 years, and now we’re thrilled to expand that experience with an exciting new category — video podcasts. Netflix has a leading video-first service, and this partnership perfectly complements our strong audio foundation.”
The collaboration will include:
Exclusive video rights on Netflix for select iHeartPodcasts
All new episodes from the participating shows
Select library episodes available to introduce audiences to previous content
Global rollout, starting with the U.S. in early 2026
Key Podcasts Making the Jump to Netflix
iHeartMedia’s partnership will feature some of the most popular and influential podcasts across true crime, comedy, culture, and sports. Fans can expect to see:
The Breakfast Club – On-demand morning show from Power 105.1 in New York; surpassed 1 billion downloads in June.
Bobby Bones Presents: The Bobbycast – Music and entertainment interviews hosted by syndicated country radio host Bobby Bones.
My Favorite Murder – True crime phenomenon with 2 billion lifetime downloads; hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark.
Dear Chelsea – Weekly advice show with Chelsea Handler and celebrity guests.
Joe and Jada – Music, culture, and sports podcast with Fat Joe and Jadakiss.
This Is Important – Comedy podcast featuring Workaholics stars Adam Devine, Anders Holm, and Blake Anderson.
The Psychology of Your 20s – Mental health and self-development podcast hosted by Jemma Sbeg.
Behind the Bastards – History podcast exploring the lives of notorious figures, hosted by Robert Evans.
Stuff They Don’t Want You to Know – Curiosity podcast tackling mysteries and conspiracies with Matt Frederick, Ben Bowlin, and Noel Brown.
Stuff You Missed in History Class – Historical insights with Holly Frey and Tracy Wilson.
Stuff To Blow Your Mind – Explores the weirdest aspects of reality with Robert Lamb and Joe McCormick.
New Rory & MAL – Sports and culture podcast featuring Jamil ‘Mal’ Clay and Rory Farrell.
3 and Out with John Middlekauff – College and pro football insights with former NFL scout John Middlekauff.
Buried Bones – History and true crime podcast hosted by Kate Winkler Dawson and Paul Holes.
Pittman notes: “Audiences can now not only listen but also watch and enjoy top-rated iHeartPodcasts alongside award-winning series and movies from Netflix.”
Netflix’s Strategy: Expanding Entertainment Horizons
Netflix VP Lauren Smith emphasized the value of combining personality-driven content with the streaming platform’s audience:
“With this partnership, we are incredibly excited to offer our members unmatched variety and highly entertaining podcasts featuring some of the world’s most dynamic personalities.”
Executives at Netflix see video podcasts as a natural expansion for subscribers who want more pop culture, lifestyle, sports, and true crime content.
Netflix has previously launched a co-exclusive deal with Spotify, bringing select shows from Spotify Studios and The Ringer to the platform.
Industry insiders say Netflix is exploring more partnerships with other podcast producers and Hollywood talent, aiming to diversify its video podcast offerings.
Shares of iHeartMedia rose 5% during trading in New York following the announcement, reflecting investor confidence in the deal’s potential.
What This Means for Audiences
For listeners, the Netflix partnership creates dual access:
Audio versions remain widely distributed on traditional platforms like iHeartPodcast, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.
Video episodes will only be available on Netflix, offering a richer, more immersive experience with visual content, behind-the-scenes footage, and host interactions.
Fans can expect:
True crime stories in video format (e.g., My Favorite Murder, Buried Bones)
Comedy podcasts with visual flair (e.g., This Is Important, Dear Chelsea)
Cultural and sports commentary (e.g., Joe and Jada, 3 and Out)
This shift reflects the broader trend of podcast-to-video conversions, leveraging streaming platforms to reach wider audiences.
The Future of Video Podcasts
Netflix co-CEO Greg Peters recently indicated that if subscriber engagement is high, the platform could significantly expand video podcast distribution, making it a mainstream category alongside movies, TV series, and original documentaries.
Industry analysts predict:
Increased competition among streaming platforms for exclusive podcast content
Opportunities for podcast creators to monetize visual storytelling
Greater audience reach for traditional audio shows
Early adopters of the iHeartMedia Netflix partnership will get a first look at a new era in entertainment where podcasts are not just heard but watched.
Conclusion
The iHeartMedia-Netflix deal marks a significant evolution in podcasting. By combining audio expertise with Netflix’s video-first platform, the partnership is poised to redefine how audiences consume some of the most popular shows in true crime, comedy, sports, and culture.
As video podcasts enter mainstream streaming, creators and fans alike stand to benefit from enhanced storytelling, global reach, and immersive experiences. The move also underscores a growing trend: in 2026, podcasts are not just heard—they’re seen.
