TikTok partners with iHeartMedia to launch the 'TikTok Podcast Network,' bridging the gap between short-form video and long-form audio through creator-led podcasts and co-branded studios in major US cities.

TikTok and iHeartMedia: A New Era in Digital Audio


In a bold move to expand beyond short-form video, TikTok has announced a groundbreaking collaboration with iHeartMedia to create the “TikTok Podcast Network.” The new initiative marks TikTok’s official entry into the audio world, blending its viral video culture with the growing influence of podcasting.

The partnership, revealed earlier this week, aims to spotlight the voices behind TikTok’s most engaging creators. Together, the two media giants are setting the stage for a new era where visual and audio storytelling merge seamlessly.

What Is the TikTok Podcast Network?


The TikTok Podcast Network will debut with up to 25 new podcasts hosted by some of TikTok’s most popular and influential creators. Each show will bring the familiar energy of TikTok’s short clips into long-form discussions—covering everything from entertainment and lifestyle to technology, culture, and comedy.

To support this new wave of content, co-branded podcast studios have been opened in Los Angeles, New York, and Atlanta. These creative spaces will serve as production hubs where TikTok creators can record, collaborate, and produce professional-quality audio content with iHeartMedia’s technical expertise.

The podcasts will be distributed via iHeartPodcasts and the iHeartRadio app, while select highlights and episodes will also appear on TikTok to maintain the link between both audiences.

TikTok Radio and the Evolution of Creator Media


As part of the partnership, TikTok and iHeartMedia have also introduced “TikTok Radio,” a digital radio station designed to replicate the energetic and fast-paced vibe of the app’s endless scroll. TikTok Radio will blend viral hits, trending sounds, and creator commentary, giving listeners a taste of TikTok’s signature rhythm—without the screen.

Industry analysts say the move signals a broader strategy for TikTok: expanding its ecosystem to include audio-based content and giving creators more platforms to express themselves beyond video.

Expanding Influence: From Screen to Sound


TikTok’s transition into podcasting reflects a growing demand for authentic creator-led content across multiple formats. By teaming up with iHeartMedia, one of the world’s largest audio companies, the platform is positioning itself to dominate both visual and audio entertainment spaces.

The TikTok Podcast Network could redefine how digital influencers connect with audiences—offering longer, more personal conversations that complement the app’s bite-sized videos. It also opens new opportunities for advertisers and brands looking to reach younger, highly engaged listeners.

The Future of Creator-Driven Podcasts


While the podcasting industry continues to grow globally, TikTok’s entry could accelerate the trend by introducing millions of its users to a new form of creator interaction. As the TikTok Podcast Network launches, it symbolizes a shift toward multi-platform storytelling—where content creators move effortlessly between sight and sound.

With this partnership, TikTok is no longer just a space for scrolling—it’s becoming a space for listening, learning, and deeper connection.