iHeartMedia and TikTok announced a sweeping partnership designed to bring TikTok creators into iHeart’s expansive ecosystem. The collaboration includes the launch of the TikTok Podcast Network, featuring up to 25 new podcasts hosted by TikTok creators, a national broadcast and digital radio channel, and a series of live event integrations, offering creators new ways to engage audiences beyond short-form video.
“This partnership connects TikTok’s cultural energy and creator community with the unmatched scale and reach of iHeartMedia,” said Rich Bressler, President, COO and CFO of iHeartMedia. “We’re giving creators access to the biggest audio platforms in America — creating new ways to tell stories, entertain, and build deeper connections with fans. Together, we’re combining our vast networks to deliver relevant content on a massive scale. It’s a win for creators, fans, and brands alike.”
The TikTok Podcast Network will empower creators to expand their storytelling beyond the platform. iHeartMedia is introducing co-branded, state-of-the-art podcast studios in Los Angeles, New York and Atlanta, complete with advanced audio and video infrastructure. Podcasts will be widely distributed on iHeartPodcasts, available through the iHeartRadio app, and accessible wherever podcasts are heard, while select highlights will be shared on TikTok.
In addition, TikTok Radio will offer a fast-paced, trend-driven format pairing creators with established iHeartRadio personalities. The station, accessible across broadcast radio stations nationwide and digitally via iHeartRadio, will feature TikTok’s hottest new songs alongside storytelling segments such as Behind-the-Charts, New Music Fridays and On The Verge.
The channel aims to give listeners the sensation of scrolling through TikTok — but with their ears.
The partnership also extends to iHeartRadio live events, providing creators access to major stages including the iHeartRadio Music Festival and iHeartRadio Jingle Ball. Brands will be able to activate alongside creators, generating unique engagement opportunities.
“At TikTok, empowering creativity and connecting communities are at the heart of everything we do,” said Dan Page, Global Head of Media and Licensing Partnerships at TikTok. “This partnership with iHeartMedia opens up exciting opportunities for creators and brands to reach wider audiences, collaborate across platforms and extend their creativity beyond TikTok. Together, we’re amplifying the connection between artists, creators, and our community through the shared power of cross-platform storytelling.”
The collaboration builds on earlier efforts such as Next Up: Live Music, a TikTok LIVE competition that highlighted emerging artists and generated significant fan engagement. iHeartMedia and TikTok plan to offer mass-reach marketing and leverage their combined sales teams to drive sponsorships and new revenue opportunities for creators.
Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. To stay updated, sign up for our newsletters and get the latest information delivered straight to your inbox.
