Acast, the largest independent podcast company, announces that one of Denmark’s media companies, TV 2, has chosen Acast as its partner to develop and strengthen its podcast offering on the Danish market. With more than 92,000 podcasts in its portfolio, Acast enables creators and publishers to host, distribute and monetize their content across all listening platforms out there.
Today, Acast works with some of the world’s largest publishing houses including BBC, The Guardian, The Economist, Vogue, as well as Nordic publishers such as Schibsted, Aller Media, Finansavisen, Dagens Næringsliv, Altinget, Discovery and many more.
By choosing Acast as partner, TV 2 will get access to the podcast company’s entire offering – everything from hosting, distribution, and opportunities for growth, to unique listener data and insights. TV 2 will also be able to take advantage of Acast’s dynamic advertising technology, which revolutionized the industry when it was released in 2014, enabling advertisers to communicate their message to the target group in real-time.
Endre Kjerstad, Senior Project Manager Strategy & Innovation at TV 2, said: “We have chosen Acast as a new platform to both strengthen the distribution of our podcasts, whenever Danes download their favorite shows, and to secure a safe advertising development for our podcasts. We are in good hands with Acast, with their extensive international experience – including experience from other media houses – and at the same time they have a local approach. We are really looking forward to this collaboration.”
Radio listening is decreasing on the Danish market. Meanwhile, the number of podcast listeners is increasing, which also is reflected in Acast’s data from 2022. Last year, the number of listens on Acast hosted content increased by 35% in Denmark, to more 27 million listens per year, with the company signing off on more than 20 new shows on the market.
The partnership with TV 2 will also expand Acast’s offering in the market, adding several new podcasts to its platform, including shows such as ’S kyggesiden’, ‘Dato’ and ‘Korrespondenterne’ to mention a few. In 2023, TV 2 will be looking to develop and launch more exciting content formats together with Acast.
Katrine Storgaard, Content Development Manager at Acast Denmark said: “We are enormously proud to be able to announce this podcast collaboration between Acast and TV 2 Denmark. Distribution, growth strategy and monetization of podcasts are our biggest strengths at Acast. Our valuable insights and many years of experience focusing exclusively on the medium of podcasts allows our partners to tap their full potential and reach more listeners. We have been helping large international media companies with this for many years, and look forward to working on the podcast projects that await us with TV 2 Denmark.”
All TV 2 podcasts will be available in Acast’s global marketplace for podcast advertising – Acast Marketplace – and available to listen to on all podcast platforms such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music and many more.
Liberated Syndication Inc. (“Libsyn” or the “Company”), the leading all-in-one podcasting platform for creators and advertisers, provided a financial and operational update for 2022.
Founded in 2004, Libsyn was the first podcast-hosting platform and one of the first companies to help podcasters monetize their content. Over the past few years, podcast monetization has experienced rapid growth, and Libsyn is strategically positioned to benefit from the increased podcasting demand among both consumers and brand advertisers. Libsyn continues to experience significant growth from its focus on podcast monetization through advertising sales.
In 2020, Libsyn earned revenue of $25.8 million, nearly all of which was derived from the Company’s hosting business. In 2021, the Company amplified its focus on helping podcasters monetize their content, and the Company increased revenue by 63% to $42.1 million, which included approximately 37% from advertising sales. In 2022, Libsyn continued its growth resulting in a 39.4% increase in preliminary unaudited revenue to $58.7 million, including over 57% from advertising.
Other operational highlights for 2022 include:
“The advertising market has been challenging for many companies, and we have not been immune to those macro trends. Still, we remain optimistic that both host-read and programmatic podcast advertising will continue to grow as podcast consumption shows no sign of slowing down,” said Libsyn’s CEO Bradley Tirpak. “According to the Infinite Dial 2022 from Edison Research, in 2022, 62% of those aged 12+ in the U.S. (an estimated 177 million people) have now listened to a podcast, up from 57% last year. We are extremely well-positioned to take advantage of this continued growth in podcast listeners through both our enhanced hosting services and our increasing ad sales capabilities.”
Other financial highlights include:
Recently entered into a new loan agreement with First Commonwealth Bank replacing its old agreement. Upon the closing on February 1, 2023, Libsyn has a term loan payable of $10 million cash and equivalents of $8.7 million, and the ability to draw up to an additional $2 million from a revolving line of credit.
As previously announced in April 2022, the Company consented to the revocation of the registration of the Company’s shares of common stock by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Therefore, the shares are no longer traded on the OTC Markets or a national securities exchange. However, shareholders at that time remain shareholders today, and the ownership interests of shareholders remain intact. The Company is actively evaluating alternatives to facilitate liquidity to shareholders in 2023.
Libsyn’s estimated, unaudited financial results and certain business metrics as of and for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022, presented above are preliminary and are subject to Libsyn’s quarter-end and year-end closing procedures and further financial review. Libsyn’s independent registered public accounting firm has not audited, reviewed, compiled, or performed any procedures with respect to this preliminary financial information. Libsyn’s actual results may differ from these estimates as a result of the completion of our quarter-end and year-end closing procedures, review adjustments, and other developments that may arise between now and the time our financial results for the fourth quarter and year are finalized.
Spreaker, the multi-faceted podcast platform and global leader in podcast ad technology announced explosive news for podcasters everywhere.
Creators can use Spreaker’s professional podcast platform at zero cost. Compared to the very basic free alternatives currently available on the market, Spreakers’ podcast platform, and coveted programmatic monetization features are in a league of their own, having consistently delivered ad dollars to hundreds of thousands of podcasters over the last 13 years.
“As more and more content platforms require subscription fees, I firmly believe that podcasting should be accessible to all creators. That’s why we’ve decided to offer professional podcasting features such as monetization and unlimited storage at no cost, empowering podcasters of all sizes to reach their full potential” said Francisco Baschieri, Spreaker’s CEO and co-founder.
Spreaker’s innovative approach to ad quality technology has made it possible for the platform to open up monetization to all users, without sacrificing quality or scalability. This momentous announcement has instantly catapulted Spreaker to the top of the list as the most advanced, professional podcast platform available on the market for free, safe, and scalable podcast monetization.
There has never been a more perfect time to podcast with Spreaker, sign up for free today and start building your podcasting empire!
Spreaker is a multi-faceted podcast platform that provides both independent content creators and established publishers with the tools and support to launch, grow and monetize their podcasts easily and fast. As a global leader in podcast ad technology, Spreakers’ technology powers some of the most prominent programmatic ad marketplaces in the podcasting industry. Spreaker is an iHeartMedia-owned company since its acquisition in 2020.
Another broadcaster has made a significant investment in the UK’s Podcast Radio as it grows and expands to the United States.
The deal sees Tindle Media Group taking a 10% interest in Podcast Radio, which launched three years ago and uses the trust and familiarity people have in radio to help them sample and choose podcasts.
Tindle owns and operates a portfolio of four radio stations in the UK and Republic of Ireland including Channel 103 in Jersey, Island FM in Guernsey, Soleil Radio across the Channel Islands and Midlands 103 in Ireland. They also own 23 local and regional newspaper titles across Britain.
Nation Broadcasting invested in Podcast Radio last year, also in return for a 10% stake.
Gerry Edwards, Founder and CEO of Podcast Radio says: “We’re pleased to have two very well-established commercial radio groups support our exciting plans to grow internationally. Both Nation and Tindle have shown great faith in Podcast Radio and we want to draw on their operational and commercial experience as we expand.”
Podcast Radio director Paul Chantler says: “With KMG, we are close to announcing our first partnership with a US broadcaster which will see us launch in several radio markets in North America. Nation and Tindle are supporting us to do this more in 2023.”
Gary Krantz, CEO of KMG Networks, says: “Podcast Radio has established itself as a leading innovator and forward-thinking company in the UK, providing a game-changing way for listeners to discover new podcasts while dramatically increasing the content offering to spoken word stations.
“We have several deals in place to establish Podcast Radio stations in the top 50 markets that we look forward to announcing in the coming months.”
Danny Cammiade, CEO of Tindle says: “With some of the most listened-to local radio stations anywhere in the British Isles, we have a strong history in providing content which engages listeners. That is why our investment is a natural extension for our company. We look forward to seeing Podcast Radio grow and make a real difference both in the UK and the international market.”
At the NAB conference in New York in October, Podcast Radio announced new ideas for the way podcast content is presented on radio. The team is currently developing a new short-form audio platform alongside the streaming channels already launched for Business, Crime and Comedy content.
Podcast Radio broadcasters 24/7 online and via app and smart speakers. It is monetized by selling traditional on-air advertising and sponsorships; inserting commercials into its online audio stream; partnering with international content makers; and making original podcasts and bespoke audio content.
The company raised initial capital from angel investors and an equity fundraising campaign. Other investors include Ohio-based podcast production company Evergreen and UK entrepreneurs including former BBC Radio 1 DJ and businessman Bruno Brookes. Podcast Radio is planning a US fundraise later this year.
Soundstack, the audio-as-a-service (Aaas) company, and Kast Media, the leader in multi-channel podcasting, announced a partnership that enables the renowned media company to deliver and monetize its award-winning content more effectively through SoundStack.
“When it comes to podcast technology, there are three essential criteria that will allow Kast to continue to entertain and inform the world through its podcasts,” said Colin Thomson, CEO of Kast Media. “First is tech that guarantees content is always delivered seamlessly. Second, that said content earns as much revenue as possible in order to fund a premium production effort. Third, and of tremendous importance, that content and ads always deliver in a way that puts the listener experience first. We believe that this path of independence with SoundStack will allow for this, and are proud to forge the path together.”
Kast Media will leverage the SoundStack platform for four fundamental capabilities:
“We’re thrilled to play a key role in helping incredible shows flourish,” said Jon Stephenson, CEO of SoundStack. “Every podcaster needs equal access to innovation that expands their opportunities to reach people and earn more revenue, instead of limiting them. It’s a pleasure to partner with a forward-thinking business like Kast that understand how always doing what’s best for the creator ultimately benefits everyone – publishers, advertisers, and listeners alike.”
About Kast Media
Kast Media is the only remaining major independent podcast network, one of the first leaders in the multi-channel simulcast strategy for show creation and distribution. As a top-10 podcast network, Kast has an extensive portfolio of top 100 shows across all genres, including the narrative and talk spaces, which reach over 13 million unique listeners/viewers per month. Recent successful show development and launches across talk include: The Sarah Silverman Podcast, Was it Real? The Hills Rewatch and Welcome to the OC – and their entry into narrative originals – The Opportunist and Lost in Panama. Kast continues to expand their footprint in the industry with their unique slate and original development. https://kastmedia.com/
APA, which continues to grow its agency across numerous fronts, announced today that Nick Panella has joined the agency to head the newly established Podcast and Audio Division at the agency, it was announced by Kyle Loftus, Head of Content Development at APA.
Panella comes to APA from powerhouse independent audio company Workhouse Media, where he worked with name brand talent and podcasts such as Shonda Rhimes, Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, Chris Lloyd (co-creator of Modern Family), Dan Patrick, David Harbour, Laverne Cox, Ed O’Neill, Karamo Brown (Netflix’s Queer Eye), Jeffery Dean Morgan (The Walking Dead), Sarah Wayne Callies, Terrell Owens (NFL Hall Of Famer), The Try Guys (2B+ views on YouTube), Bob Saget (Full House), top podcasts Cold and The Letter (#1 podcast), and many others.
The move also establishes a strategic partnership between APA and Workhouse Media across the full audio landscape, most notably in podcasting. APA and Workhouse Media recently collaborated launching More To It with Marcellus Wiley on the Dan Patrick Network, they also are collaborating on a number of derivative deals, including a narrative project involving their top-rated true crime podcast The Letter and many more projects the companies are developing together.
At Workhouse Media, Panella launched and led Workhouse Media’s podcast division to over a billion downloads. Other accomplishments include #1 podcasts, numerous podcast awards and nominations, executive producing credits on over two thousand podcast episodes, TV adaptations of podcasts, and raising millions of dollars to fund podcast startups. Panella also served as Advisor to the CEO and worked closely with Workhouse’s broadcast radio team.
Since CAA purchase of ICM Partners, APA has been on an acquisition and expansion tear in oder to secure its position as the top full-service alternative to the Big 3. Two weeks ago, APA announced a strategic partnership with Europa Content, a Brooklyn based publishing and production company that APA will handle media rights for. APA also announced last week the signing of iconic gaming company Atari to develop content based on the company’s signature games.
With the hiring of Panella, APA has now brought in 19 new agents since CAA/ICM, significantly fortifying their talent, lit, alternative TV, music and comedy touring departments, as well as launching an animation and voice-over department with industry vet Jennifer Rudin who served in the same role at ICM Partners and now a podcasting and audio department with Panella and Workhouse Media.
Said Kyle Loftus
“Nick is a stellar agent and will an invaluable resource to APA’s rapidly expanding list of premium content creator clients. Working with Nick and expanding our relationship with Paul and his incredible team at Workhorse Media marks an extremely valuable expansion of resources for APA clients interested in any aspect of the audio space.”
Said Paul Anderson, CEO of Workhouse Media
“Nick’s combined creative and analytical background together with his business smarts has helped him forge successful collaborative relationships across the industry. Nick will be a great strategic addition to APA’s fast-growing business. We look forward to continuing our great relationship with him and the talented content creators at APA as we expand our relationship with the agency.”
Said Nick Panella
“After successfully working with APA agents and clients for many years now while at Workhorse Media, the transition to coming in house with them will be seamless, exciting, and very productive.”
Libsyn Syndication Inc, (“Libsyn”), the leading all-in-one podcasting platform for creators and advertisers, announced its February 2023 Podcast Advertising Rates, including the highest and most accessible CPM categories.
“Programmatic accounts for just 2% of total podcast ad revenues. While this is still nascent, in the last six months, AdvertiseCast is experiencing growing adoption of our Libsyn Auto Ads solution as more brands and agencies seek to buy podcast advertising programmatically like they purchase other digital ads,” said Dave Hanley, Chief Revenue Officer at Libsyn’s AdvertiseCast. “What sets our open market apart is our ability to bring together content, audience, technology, and transparency to deliver meaningful results for advertisers.”
The AdvertiseCast February 2023 Podcast Advertising Rates
The following rates, which are denoted as cost per thousand or CPM, are published monthly by Libsyn’s AdvertiseCast, the industry’s premier podcast advertising marketplace that connects advertisers with podcasters. The Company releases the figures to empower the podcaster and advertiser communities to readily monitor market pricing and provide greater insight into podcasting advertising as a monetization vehicle. The data is derived from actual sales data across AdvertiseCast’s network of over 2,900 shows, including more than 225 exclusive podcasts.
For February 2023, the average CPM rate was $22.04 for a 60-second ad spot. That figure is down approximately 1% compared to last month (January 2023 avg, CPM rate: $22.28) and has decreased year-over-year (February 2022 avg. CPM rate: $23.25).
“Although the podcast ad market remains resilient, we are seeing a couple factors pushing rates down for us,” said Hanley. “Given the market uncertainty, we are working aggressively with our agency and brand partners to offer them great value. In addition, our network has gone up market representing several larger podcasts, this carries natural rate compression, and those large audiences carry more weight in our calculations.”
The three highest CPM categories in February based on delivered advertising were:
Technology: $27
Education: $25
Kids & Family: $25
Moreover, three categories where advertisers can effectively tap into highly engaged audiences at more accessible CPM rates include Music, Leisure, and Fiction, which averaged around the low twenties in February.
Libsyn’s AdvertiseCast combines an industry-leading as buying and management platform with full-service capabilities that makes it easy for podcast advertisers to initiate and manage highly targeted and measurable campaigns, while providing maximum return for creators. Historical monthly CPM rates can be found on AdvertiseCast’s website at: www.advertisecast.com/podcast-advertising-rates.