Lemonada Media Expands Into Kids Podcasts With Story Pirates and Brains On Universe
Since its founding in 2019, Lemonada Media has built a reputation for creating podcasts that “make life suck less.” With topics spanning wellness, culture, social impact, and humor, the company has established itself as one of the most innovative voices in the podcasting world. Now, Lemonada is extending its mission to a younger audience — proving that making life brighter has no age limit.
In a major announcement, Lemonada revealed partnerships with two of the most beloved names in children’s podcasting: Story Pirates and Brains On Universe. The collaboration marks Lemonada’s official expansion into kids and family audio content, strengthening its global reach and diversifying its portfolio.
Lemonada’s latest deals bring together three powerhouse brands known for creative storytelling, educational excellence, and family engagement.
Under the agreements:
Lemonada Media will manage ad sales and distribution for both Story Pirates Podcast and Brains On Universe’s family programming.
The move aligns with Lemonada’s goal to broaden its influence beyond adult-oriented storytelling into multi-generational content.
Both new partners come with massive audiences and impressive download histories, positioning Lemonada as a top contender in the booming kids podcasting market.
CEO Jessica Cordova Kramer on Why Lemonada Is Betting Big on Kids’ Audio
Lemonada Media CEO Jessica Cordova Kramer shared her excitement in the announcement, saying:
“Lemonada’s mission is to make life suck less, and what better way than to support best-in-class content for kids and families? We’re thrilled to welcome the Story Pirates and Brains On teams into our quirky, caring Lemonada family of shows working across genres to make the world a better place.”
This expansion isn’t just about business — it’s about building emotional connection and offering value-driven entertainment for all ages.
About Story Pirates: Turning Kids’ Imagination Into Comedy Gold
Story Pirates has long been a fan favorite for families looking for laughter, learning, and creativity.
Founded with the goal of transforming children’s original stories into sketch comedy and songs, the podcast has become a global phenomenon — boasting over 100 million downloads to date.
How It Works
Kids submit stories — from silly adventures to heartfelt tales.
Professional actors and comedians bring those stories to life through performances, songs, and improvisation.
Celebrity guests like Kristen Bell, John Oliver, Lin-Manuel Miranda, John Legend, Julie Andrews, and Sara Bareilles add star power to each episode.
Returning for its eighth season, Story Pirates continues to prove that kids are the best writers in the world.
Story Pirates CEO Benjamin Salka said:
“We’re so pleased to be at Lemonada. They’ve built a world-class lineup of shows, and we’re honored to be included along with Brains On — one of our favorites.”
Story Pirates Creative Director Lee Overtree added:
“Our goal isn’t just to produce comedy for kids — it’s to produce comedy with kids. Partnering with Lemonada lets us reach even more listeners who appreciate that creativity has no age boundaries.”
Brains On Universe: The Science of Fun Learning
If Story Pirates ignites imagination, Brains On Universe sparks curiosity.
Founded in 2012 by real-life friends Molly Bloom, Marc Sanchez, and Sanden Totten, Brains On Universe has built one of the most trusted brands in educational audio content for young minds.
Flagship Shows in the Brains On Universe Portfolio
Brains On! – The award-winning science podcast answering kids’ biggest questions in a fun, accessible way.
Smash Boom Best – A debate show where kids and adults argue hilarious topics like “Pizza vs. Tacos” or “Cats vs. Dogs.”
Forever Ago – A time-traveling journey through history from a kid’s perspective.
Moment of Um – A short daily show that answers quirky and profound questions like “Why do we yawn?” or “Can plants talk?”
These shows blend humor, fact, and curiosity — encouraging young listeners to see the world differently.
Brains On Universe has over 130 million downloads, multiple bestselling books, a thriving newsletter, and a live events business.
After years under American Public Media, the founders recently bought back the brand, regaining independence and creative control. This return to ownership marks a new era — and Lemonada’s involvement ensures strong commercial and creative growth.
Why Lemonada’s Expansion Into Kids’ Content Matters
The global podcast industry has grown exponentially — but kids and family podcasts are now among its fastest-rising segments.
According to recent studies (e.g., Edison Research, 2025):
Over 60% of parents in the U.S. report that their children listen to podcasts weekly.
Kids’ podcasts have become a multimillion-dollar advertising opportunity, attracting sponsors in education, tech, and entertainment sectors.
Families increasingly turn to audio content as a screen-free entertainment alternative, especially during travel or quiet time.
By aligning with trusted children’s brands, Lemonada Media positions itself at the forefront of this growth, adding long-term value to its business and audience base.
Industry Perspective: A Perfect Union of Education and Entertainment
Experts see this collaboration as a natural evolution in the podcasting landscape.
“Lemonada’s entry into the kids’ audio market represents a smart strategic move,” says media analyst Claire Reynolds. “By partnering with established leaders like Brains On and Story Pirates, they’re not just acquiring content — they’re gaining credibility in family education and entertainment.”
The partnership also reflects a larger trend toward cross-generational audio ecosystems, where companies produce shows that appeal to both parents and children, fostering shared listening experiences.
How Lemonada Will Drive Growth
With PodX Group as a major stakeholder, Lemonada has the resources and global network to scale distribution, optimize monetization, and boost international reach.
Key growth strategies include:
Targeted Ad Sales: Leveraging Lemonada’s ad network to connect family-friendly brands with engaged audiences.
Cross-Promotion: Introducing adult listeners to family content and vice versa.
Content Expansion: Potential for new spin-offs, live events, and branded educational initiatives.
The synergy among Lemonada, Story Pirates, and Brains On Universe could redefine how kids consume content in a rapidly evolving media world.
The Bigger Picture: Lemonada’s Expanding Universe
Lemonada Media is already home to some of the most impactful podcasts in modern storytelling, including:
Add to Cart
The Dough
In the Bubble with Andy Slavitt
No One Is Coming to Save Us
Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus
By adding family and educational programming, Lemonada transforms into a multi-demographic media network, reaching audiences from toddlers to grandparents.
A Future Focused on Empathy, Education, and Entertainment
This expansion proves that Lemonada’s brand ethos — making life suck less — resonates universally. From tackling mental health and social issues to fostering laughter and creativity, Lemonada’s programming now covers the full spectrum of human experience.
“This is about connection,” Kramer emphasized. “We believe storytelling can make people feel less alone — whether they’re six or sixty.”
Final Thoughts: A Win for Families, Educators, and the Podcasting Industry
Lemonada Media’s bold move into kids’ podcasts marks a defining moment for both the company and the industry.
It unites education, humor, and heart under one digital roof — setting the stage for a new wave of family-centered storytelling.
As Story Pirates and Brains On Universe continue to empower kids’ creativity and curiosity, Lemonada ensures that those stories reach more ears, spark more conversations, and remind us that learning can be joyful at any age.
Where to Listen
Both Story Pirates and Brains On Universe shows are available on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and BBC Sounds, with distribution and ad sales now managed by Lemonada Media.
