iHeartMedia and TikTok have announced a new multi-platform partnership that will integrate TikTok creators into iHeartMedia’s podcasting, broadcast, digital radio, and live event platforms. The arrangement introduces the TikTok Podcast Network, a new national TikTok Radio channel, and expanded collaborative opportunities for creators at major iHeart live events.
The TikTok Podcast Network will include up to 25 new shows hosted by TikTok creators. These programs will extend creator storytelling into long-form audio and video formats, providing audiences with more opportunities to engage with familiar voices. As part of this initiative, iHeartMedia will open new co-branded podcast studios in Los Angeles, New York, and Atlanta, equipped for both audio and video production. IHeartPodcasts will widely distribute the shows and make them available through the iHeartRadio app and other podcast platforms, with additional short-form highlights available on TikTok.
The partnership also includes the launch of TikTok Radio, which will be available across broadcast stations nationwide and digitally on iHeartRadio. The station is designed to mirror the experience of scrolling TikTok in an audio format, pairing creators with experienced radio hosts. Programming will include trending music and commentary segments that provide emotional and cultural context behind popular songs and social conversations.
In addition, iHeartMedia and TikTok will collaborate at major live events such as the iHeartRadio Music Festival and iHeartRadio Jingle Ball. The partnership will expand creator access and provide brands with new opportunities to engage audiences through creator-led on-site content experiences.
This expanded partnership builds on an earlier collaboration between the companies with the Next Up: Live Music competition hosted on TikTok LIVE, which highlighted emerging musicians and drove significant fan participation. TikTok and iHeartMedia plan to jointly promote and market the new programming slate, with combined global sales efforts aimed at sponsorship opportunities and new revenue channels. Further details will be shared in the coming months.
KEY QUOTES:
“This partnership connects TikTok’s cultural energy and creator community with the unmatched scale and reach 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.”
Rich Bressler, President, COO and CFO, iHeartMedia
“At TikTok, empowering creativity and connecting communities are at the heart of everything we do. This partnership with iHeartMedia opens up exciting new opportunities for creators and brands to reach wider audiences, collaborate across platforms and extend their creativity beyond the TikTok platform. Together, we’re amplifying the connection between artists, creators and our community through the shared power of cross platform storytelling.”
Dan Page, Global Head of Media and Licensing Partnerships, TikTok
