Netflix and Spotify Partner to Bring Video Podcasts to Streaming in 2026
In an exciting move for entertainment fans, Netflix and Spotify have announced a strategic partnership to bring video podcasts directly to Netflix viewers. The collaboration, set to launch in the US in early 2026, combines Spotify’s podcast expertise with Netflix’s global streaming platform, promising a fresh way to consume stories, culture, and conversations.
A New Era for Video Podcasts
Video podcasts have seen a rapid surge in popularity over the past few years. A recent Cumulus Media study revealed that 72% of podcast listeners now prefer shows with a video component, highlighting the demand for audio-visual experiences.
This partnership reflects both companies’ commitment to expanding distribution and discovery of top-tier podcast content:
Spotify Studios and The Ringer will provide curated selections of their popular shows.
Netflix viewers will gain access to sports, culture, lifestyle, and true crime podcasts alongside traditional streaming content.
The initiative aims to introduce new audiences to podcasts they may not have discovered otherwise.
Netflix Perspective: Entertainment Beyond Traditional Streaming
Lauren Smith, VP of Content Licensing and Programming Strategy at Netflix, said:
“At Netflix, we’re always looking for new ways to entertain our members. With video podcasts on the rise, our partnership with Spotify ensures we bring the full video versions of these top shows to Netflix. This curated selection adds fresh voices and new perspectives, making our entertainment lineup more exciting than ever.”
Netflix’s integration of video podcasts underscores a broader strategy to diversify content offerings and adapt to evolving viewer habits, especially as audiences increasingly consume hybrid audio-visual media.
Spotify’s Vision: Expanding Podcast Reach
Roman Wasenmüller, VP and Head of Podcasts at Spotify, explained the company’s motivation:
“This partnership marks a new chapter for podcasting. Together with Netflix, we’re expanding discovery, helping creators reach new audiences, and giving fans the chance to experience the stories they love while uncovering new favourites.”
For Spotify, the collaboration strengthens its goal of making podcasts more accessible and reinforcing video as a key growth driver for the medium.
Curated Podcast Selection: What to Expect
The initial lineup of podcasts on Netflix will feature some of Spotify’s most popular shows across multiple genres:
Sports Podcasts
The Bill Simmons Podcast – Insightful sports commentary and celebrity interviews.
The Ringer NFL Show – Comprehensive analysis of the latest football news.
Lifestyle & Culture Podcasts
The Rewatchables – Deep dives into iconic films and pop culture phenomena.
The Dave Chang Show – Food, culture, and conversations with industry influencers.
True Crime Podcasts
Conspiracy Theories – Investigating unsolved mysteries and shocking theories.
Serial Killers – Stories of infamous criminals and the psychology behind them.
More titles will be added gradually as the partnership grows, providing Netflix viewers with a continuously evolving roster of video podcasts.
Global Rollout: First in the US, Then Worldwide
The video podcasts will debut in the US in early 2026, with other international markets following soon after. Netflix and Spotify have indicated that the expansion will include both existing fan favorites and newly produced content, giving global audiences more ways to enjoy premium podcasts.
Why This Partnership Matters
This collaboration is significant for several reasons:
Bridging Audio and Video: Fans can now enjoy podcasts as full video experiences rather than audio-only streams.
New Discovery Opportunities: Spotify creators gain access to Netflix’s massive user base, potentially attracting millions of new listeners.
Diversifying Streaming Content: Netflix continues to innovate beyond movies and TV, keeping subscribers engaged with unique, interactive media experiences.
The partnership also signals the growing convergence of streaming and podcasting, as media companies adapt to evolving audience preferences and the rising demand for multimedia storytelling.
What This Means for Creators and Fans
For creators, this partnership opens new monetization and exposure avenues, while fans benefit from:
Seamless access to video podcasts without switching platforms.
Curated content recommendations based on Netflix viewing habits.
Cross-genre discovery, blending entertainment with education, sports, and lifestyle insights.
Looking Ahead
As the partnership between Netflix and Spotify evolves, industry watchers anticipate further innovations in:
Interactive video podcasts with integrated features like polls or viewer Q&A.
Collaborations with celebrity hosts and influencers to expand appeal.
Global expansion, bringing curated podcasts to audiences beyond the US.
This collaboration could redefine how audiences engage with podcasts, cementing video as an essential medium in the future of streaming entertainment.
