iHM Opens Video Podcast Platform to Creators & Publishers

iHeartMedia is launching free full-length video podcast distribution on the iHeartRadio app and website in early 2026, expanding its "Creators First" mission to support creators without charging fees or taking revenue shares.

This move allows podcasters to upload video episodes via standard RSS feeds alongside their audio content, giving them full control over presentation, monetization, and hosting providers—no ties to iHeart-owned services required.

Bob Pitman

Bob Pittman, iHeartMedia Chairman and CEO, emphasized the shift: “While audio remains the backbone of the podcast medium, video podcasting is now emerging as a completely separate and incremental form to audio, in the same way that podcasting evolved as a new layer on top of broadcast radio. 

At iHeartMedia creators come first. Providing this new video distribution capability for free to our creators is an additional testament to our continuing focus on creators’ success and is consistent with how and why the podcast industry was built to begin with.”

The move reflects radio's ongoing digital reinvention through hybrid models that blend OTA broadcasting with streaming, podcasts, and video. Companies like iHeartMedia emphasize seamless integration of live radio, on-demand content, and emerging formats to adapt to evolving listener preferences.

Traditional OTA radio continues to hold the largest share of ad-supported audio listening, with recent data showing it accounts for 62-67% of daily ad-supported audio time, compared to 15-20% for podcasts and 12-15% for streaming music services. Weekly reach remains high, especially in vehicles and at work, where OTA dominates. Older demographics (35+) favor traditional radio, while younger listeners increasingly shift to digital platforms.

However, streaming's rapid rise—digital audio ad spending now exceeds $13 billion annually—pressures traditional radio's core ad sales. Podcast advertising grew 32.8% in early 2025, outpacing streaming and radio, while programmatic digital audio and targeted ads attract budgets away from spot advertising. National radio spot revenue is projected to decline modestly, though local and digital extensions provide some offset.

Overall, the industry evolves toward hybrid ecosystems, with innovations like video integration and programmatic partnerships helping broadcasters maintain relevance amid competition. Traditional radio's strengths in reach, localism, and in-car listening ensure its endurance, but sustained growth depends on embracing digital formats.