Audacy is expanding its podcast portfolio through a new partnership with the MeidasTouch Network. The deal will give Audacy responsibility for the network’s sales and distribution.
What We Know: Audacy will handle sales and distribution for the MeidasTouch Network beginning September 1. The partnership adds one of the largest independent political podcast networks to Audacy’s growing audio portfolio. Meanwhile, The MeidasTouch Podcast will continue releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Friday morning. The show has become a major part of the network’s programming strategy as MeidasTouch continues expanding its reach across digital platforms. Under the agreement, Audacy will provide its sales operation and distribution infrastructure while MeidasTouch maintains its existing programming schedule.
What They Said: “Our mission has always been to build the strongest independent news network in the country. Our partnership with Audacy significantly expands our podcast capabilities while strengthening our advertising operation as we continue growing the MeidasTouch Network. This is another important step in our long-term strategy to invest in independent media, expand our programming, and reach even more people across every major platform.” -MeidasTouch co-founder Ben Meiselas
“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome the MeidasTouch Network to Audacy – this partnership underscores the momentum behind our podcast business and further accelerates our growth. What Ben, Brett, and Jordan have built is nothing short of a phenomenon – a powerhouse in independent media with unmatched scale and audience engagement. Audacy’s best-in-class sales team, paired with the MeidasTouch Network’s unmatched scale and audience engagement, will unlock powerful opportunities for our advertising partners.” -Audacy Head of Podcasts Leah Reis-Dennis
What Remains Unclear: Neither company detailed the financial terms of the partnership or how the agreement will affect MeidasTouch’s broader business operations. It also remains unclear whether Audacy will expand its role beyond sales and distribution as the relationship develops. Additionally, the companies didn’t provide specific revenue expectations tied to the deal.
What It Means: The agreement gives Audacy another high-profile podcast property as the company continues building its digital audio business. For MeidasTouch, the partnership provides access to Audacy’s established sales operation and distribution network. At the same time, Audacy gains a politically engaged audience that could create new opportunities for advertisers. Ultimately, the deal highlights the continued importance of podcast partnerships as media companies look for ways to grow audiences and advertising revenue.
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Garrett Searight is Barrett Media’s News Editor, which includes writing daily news stories, features, and opinion columns. He joined Barrett Media in 2022 after a decade leading several radio brands in several formats, as well as a 5-year stint working in local television. In addition to his work with Barrett Media, he is a radio and TV play-by-play broadcaster. Reach out to him at Garrett@BarrettMedia.com.