Podcast Network Insights: Understanding the Business of Podcast "Networks"

What does a podcast network actually include when its purpose can range from ad sales to collaboration or distribution? The answer affects ownership, contracts, revenue, and how the relationship ends.

Gordon Firemark has practiced entertainment law since 1992. He has hosted Entertainment Law Update since 2009 and has written The Podcast Blog and New Media Producer’s Legal Survival Guide. His work focuses on helping podcasters and entertainment businesses understand the legal structure behind their work. He shares practical legal advice for podcast networks and hosts considering joining a network.

Listen for:

03:50 – Why define the network’s purpose?

06:57 – What rights does a network acquire?

08:10 – What happens when relationships end?

08:58 – Who owns the RSS feed?

12:36 – Why formalize a collective?

14:33 – Why treat legal work as investment?

18:20 – How should ad payments work?

24:59 – What due diligence protects networks?

31:33 – How should talent be classified?

35:25 – What red flags affect hosts?

40:54 – What belongs in exit terms?

CONNECT WITH GUEST: GORDON FIREMARK, ENTERTAINMENT ATTORNEY | CEO FIREMARK ENTERPRISES

Website | LinkedIn

Gordon’s podcast rec: Entertainment Law Update

Gordon’s podcast rec: Legit Podcast Pro

Gordon’s podcast rec: Expert Edge Podcast

Gordon’s book rec: The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks

CONNECT WITH GREG WASSERMAN, HEAD OF RELATIONSHIPS AT RSS.COM

Website | LinkedIn | Newsletter

Greg’s book rec: Return on Courage by Ryan Berman

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What happens when a podcast network operator builds the entire tech stack themselves? Not as a seasoned developer, but because none of the available platforms align with their vision, values, or the needs of their creators? And how does this choice ripple through onboarding, data ownership, and creator monetization, especially when the builder’s background is media, not tech? Most networks rely on off-the-shelf platforms or outsource the heavy lifting, but building from scratch to enable real-time revenue splits and direct creator access to subscriber data is a rare, hands-on approach.

Angel Livas brings a unique perspective, with roots in terrestrial radio, public broadcasting, and major television networks. As founder of ALIVE Podcast Network focused on amplifying Black voices, she’s combined her media leadership with an operator’s mindset, now curating a network of over 100 shows and personally guiding each creator’s onboarding journey.

Listen for:

09:07 Starting a Faith-Inspired Network

12:28 Creating the Alive Podcast Network

18:49 Launching Alive Tech Platform

28:37 Promoting the Alive Podcast Network

34:39 Consulting and support for creatives

49:51 Licensing technology to other countries

CONNECT WITH GUEST: ANGEL LIVAS, FOUNDER & CEO, ALIVE PODCAST NETWORK

Website | LinkedIn

Angel’s podcast rec: The Exit Interview

Angel’s podcast rec:ALIVE & WELL

CONNECT WITH GREG WASSERMAN, HEAD OF RELATIONSHIPS FOR RSS.COM

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Greg’s book rec: Return on Courage by Ryan Berman

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What if the primary answer to podcaster loneliness isn’t more listeners or revenue, but structured, everyday “host love”? This episode unpacks how combating the solitary nature of podcasting lies at the heart of what truly helps a podcast network thrive. William Tincup describes the intentional structures—monthly “Hot Mic” calls, resource-sharing, and peer support—that move a network beyond transaction to genuine connection, making it the antidote to creative isolation.

William Tincup, co-founder of WRKdefined with long-time collaborator Ryan Leary, brings a nuanced perspective: after decades in HR and content, and years podcasting, he and Ryan built a network approaching 100 shows in the world of work. Their partnership, a decade in the making before launching the network, offers a window into the operational and relational decisions that make support for hosts a lived priority, not just an aspiration

Listen for:

00:14 Why prioritize community early?

21:59 Why avoid membership fees?

28:29 How can networks build community?

34:29 How does WRKdefined define success?

38:40 What should podcasters seek?

01:02:12 What makes partnerships work?

CONNECT WITH GUEST: WILLIAM TINCUP, EDITOR | ANALYST | ADVISOR | HOST

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram

William's Podcast recs: Recruiting Future with Matt Alder | What's in a Name?

William's Book rec: Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand

CONNECT WITH GREG WASSERMAN, HEAD OF RELATIONSHIPS AT RSS.COM

Website | LinkedIn

Greg’s book rec: Return on Courage by Ryan Berman

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What role does a website play in a podcast network beyond listing shows and linking to listening platforms? Steve Phillips argues for building an owned hub where a network can organize its content, connect with its audience, and depend less on decisions made by outside platforms.

Steve Phillips, co-founder of the GeekCast Radio Network, explains how a single Transformers show grew into a 38-show pop culture network and why culture fit, audience ownership, legal foundations, and practical technology matter more than simply adding another show.

After 20 years in podcasting, Steve brings an unusually hands-on perspective. He has managed RSS feeds, websites, editing, graphics, contributor relationships, syndication, copyright issues, and a major rebrand. His view is clear: a network earns its value through collaboration and shared identity, not by serving as another hosting directory. He shares lessons from managing dozens of shows, building custom website technology, protecting audience ownership, and selecting contributors based on cultural fit.

Listen for:

3:06 Founding the GeekCast Radio Network

11:15 Creating top 100 countdowns

19:48 Evaluating Collaboration Opportunities

27:01 Waiting for Tech to Catch Up

37:14 Deciding Network Website Structure

40:25 Shifting to video and rebranding

47:56 Managing Podcast Payments and Autonomy

CONNECT WITH GUEST: STEVE PHILLIPS, Co-Creator of GeekCast Radio Network

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram

Steve's Podcast rec: All Things Transformers | Cinema Geeks | Altered Geek®

Steve's Book rec: The Introvert’s Edge to Networking by Matthew Pollard

CONNECT WITH GREG WASSERMAN, HEAD OF RELATIONSHIPS AT RSS.COM

Website | LinkedIn | Newsletter

Greg’s book rec: Return on Courage by Ryan Berman

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What happens when a podcast network isn’t just a distribution tool, but the core engine of a larger business built around trust and long-term value? This conversation with Hank Fuerst unpacks how intentional (and sometimes accidental) decisions about structure, strategy, and monetization can ripple through the whole organization. It’s a grounded look at the evolving definition of “podcast network”—and why that definition keeps shifting.

Hank Fuerst has spent over a decade steering and scaling one of the country’s largest independent podcast networks, Ramsey Network, operating at a national level with a team of 75 supporting fewer than 10 active shows. With roots in radio, a mission steeped in financial education and advice, his network has thrived through strategic adaptation and a clear focus on fit, consistency, and audience trust.

Listen for:

11:18 Starting as an independent radio network

27:24 Team structure and media challenges

31:20 Tech insights from an independent creator

37:35 Developing fan engagement tools

44:46 Early adoption in digital media

54:36 Future of podcasting and media

01:08:00 Finding purpose in content creation

CONNECT WITH GUEST: HANK FUERST, VICE PRESIDENT | RAMSEY NETWORK

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram

Hank’s rec: Podcasts: The Dr. John Delony Show | Dear Hank & John Book: Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann

CONNECT WITH GREG WASSERMAN, HEAD OF RELATIONSHIPS FOR RSS.COM

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Greg’s book rec: Return on Courage by Ryan Berman

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What happens when a podcast network is built not from traditional media roots, but from a software platform focused on indie creators? This episode explores the practical implications of bringing technology and community features together, redefining how a podcast network can operate and who it serves. Guest Alex Sanfilippo shares how listening to users shaped the structure and philosophy of his network.

Alex Sanfilippo is the founder of PodMatch, a software company started in 2020, something like a dating app for hosts and guests for podcast interviews. At the end of 2024 he created the PodMatch Podcast Network, operating as a community-driven collective with a strong backbone of software-enabled discoverability and collaboration. It functions as a “growth and support network” for independent interview-based podcasters, helping them get organized, improve, and “graduate” to their next stage. Technology multiplies the value of connection, but the heart remains member-to-member support and skill-building. Monetization is a secondary benefit. With over 500 podcasts now part of the network, listen to how Alex's built and scaled this unique network.

Listen for:

:00 Exploring Podcast Network Dynamics

9:04 Building small community meetups

11:56 Community-driven podcast collaboration

19:17 Identifying a gap in the market

31:10 Finding the why in goals

39:09 Building collaboration network tools

44:39 Podcaster cost support initiative

52:43 Building a Podcast Network

1:01:27 Focus on individual connections

CONNECT WITH GUEST: ALEX SANFILIPPO, PODCASTER AND FOUNDER OF PODMATCH

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Podcasting Made Simple Podcast

Alex’s Book rec: The Mom Test by Rob Fitzpatrick

CONNECT WITH GREG WASSERMAN, HEAD OF RELATIONSHIPS FOR RSS.COM

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Greg’s book rec: Return on Courage by Ryan Berman

Systems, Sponsors, and Partners:

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Produced by Stories & Strategies

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Are podcast "networks" holding creators back? Why does one company refuse the network label? And what is everyone missing about the business of podcast collectives? What if chasing the label of "network" is distracting podcasters from real, sustainable growth?

Amanda McLoughlin began her journey on YouTube before moving into podcasting as the co-creator and co-host of "Spirits," a show blending mythology, folklore, and casual conversation in a unique and engaging format. Amanda founded Multitude in 2018, a podcast collective dedicated to supporting creators and fostering collaboration across innovative, creator-driven shows.

Multitude rejects the traditional network model in favor of creator control, democratic structure, and long-term community building. Made up of podcasts united not just by format or subject matter, but by a shared ethos of curiosity, critical thinking, and genuine enthusiasm. Amanda's insights into collective operations, hands-off IP, and ad sales come from years of leading with relationships over hierarchy. She shares strategies for fostering creator autonomy, the pitfalls of public radio norms, and why prioritizing community over scale is the way forward.

Listen for:

11:13 Early days of video blogging

19:34 Understanding podcast creators' needs

46:14 Podcast creative consultation process

31:31 Building Authentic Industry Relationships

23:40 Creating sustainable podcast episodes

37:34 Finding the right podcast partners

1:06:39 Personalized ad sales strategy

CONNECT WITH GUEST: AMANDA MCLOUGHLIN, CEO | MULTITUDE

Website | LinkedIn

Amanda’s rec: Podcast Consider This for Comfort | Spirits: Mythology, Legends, & Folklore | This Guy Sucked | Tiny Matters Book Pleasure Activism: The Politics of Feeling Good

CONNECT WITH GREG WASSERMAN, HEAD OF RELATIONSHIPS FOR RSS.COM

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Greg’s book rec: Return on Courage by Ryan Berman

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Produced by Stories & Strategies

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What makes a podcast network truly distinctive? In this conversation, the focus shifts to networks that do more than aggregate existing content. Instead, they build new shows from the ground up, taking real creative risks on untested ideas. It’s a hands-on, developmental model, shaped by leaders willing to take part in every stage of show creation. Mike Jensen embodies this approach, blending years of experience in sponsorship and content development with a personal investment in each project.

Mike Jensen draws on decades in media—AOL, the Wall Street Journal, and leadership roles in podcasting—to build Rhapsody Voices, a boutique podcast network with more than 40 shows across diverse genres. His career-long expertise in advertising and partnerships sets the foundation for a style of network leadership that prioritizes development, realism, and deep collaboration.

Listen for:

00:00 Navigating the podcast network world

6:27 Managing a boutique show network

11:02 Building Community Through Podcasts

13:52 Analyzing marketing goals and strategies

15:58 Discussing ad delivery strategies

20:33 Educating creators on ad strategy

23:22 Understanding Audience Size for Sponsorship

26:35 Choosing the right podcast network

37:38 Startup challenges and early focus

50:32 The impact of podcasts on culture

CONNECT WITH GUEST: MIKE JENSEN | CEO

Website | LinkedIn

Mike’s Podcast rec: The Players Box | Today, Explained | Question Everything

Mike's Book rec: The Algebra of Happiness by Scott Galloway

CONNECT WITH GREG WASSERMAN, HEAD OF RELATIONSHIPS FOR RSS.COM

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Greg’s book rec: Return on Courage by Ryan Berman

Systems, Sponsors, and Partners:

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Produced by Stories & Strategies

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Podcast Project Management with Northflow

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What does it look like to build a podcast network where the technical foundation feels as relational and dynamic as a theater ensemble? This conversation explores how the underlying tech and operational choices shape not only discoverability but also the everyday reality for creators, and why a podcast network’s digital backbone can become its most communal feature. Alan Seales brings a rare perspective, blending his background in computer science, Broadway performance, and Google engineering to build a podcast network that serves nearly 200 shows and rethinks how networks can support podcasters at scale.

Alan has led the Broadway Podcast Network since 2019, applying his hands-on technical skills to design everything from custom web platforms to automated systems. With experience both on stage and in major tech roles, he offers practical lessons from years of supporting and growing a sizable collection of podcasts in a distinctly creative industry. This conversation weaves together his personal journey, operational philosophy, and the values that drive the network, highlighting BPN’s unique approach to community, automation, and creative support.

Listen for:

00:00 Discussing podcast networks and operations

10:46 SEO focus and network benefits

19:35 Operating smoothly with podcast tools

28:57 Helping Clients Plan Podcasts

32:20 Podcast submission requirements

37:46 Talking about podcast growth and community

48:41 Building a podcast P&L system

54:53 Trying new podcasting strategies

56:08 Challenges with marketing strategies

01:12:15 Criteria for accepting podcast shows

CONNECT WITH GUEST: ALAN SEALES, CO-FOUNDER

Website | LinkedIn | The Theatre Podcast with Alan Seales

Alan’s Podcast rec: The Lonely Island

Alan’s Book rec: The Aetherion Code by Bellamy Young

CONNECT WITH GREG WASSERMAN, HEAD OF RELATIONSHIPS AT RSS.COM

Website | LinkedIn

Greg’s book rec: Return on Courage by Ryan Berman

Systems, Sponsors, and Partners:

Hosted with RSS.com Podcast Hosting

Produced by Stories & Strategies

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Podcast Project Management with Northflow

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What happens when a podcast network builds its identity for listeners—much like a TV channel—instead of just providing services to creators behind the scenes? This episode explores why centering a podcast network’s brand can shape everything from show selection to audience community and long-term business value. It challenges the assumption that a podcast network is simply a vehicle for production and sales, and instead considers it as a consumer-facing brand that must earn long-term loyalty. Guest A.J. Feliciano brings a rare perspective—questioning whether “podcast” will even remain the right word, and pushing operators to rethink how networks build lasting value.

With a background in cable television—including nearly a decade at NBCUniversal—and experience building networks that emerged from large, fan-driven brands, A.J. Feliciano now leads the creation of a new kind of podcast network with Companion. His operational focus stretches from network structure to direct-to-consumer brand-building. If you’re curious what it looks like to operationalize a consumer-facing network from scratch, the full conversation goes much deeper.

Listen for:

00:00 Podcast networks and brand building

06:54 How podcast networks operate

15:04 Fostering community through meaningful content

20:12 Expanding Podcast Network Partnerships

30:18 Considering doing ad sales in-house

37:11 Discussing podcast network operations

43:24 Celebrities and podcast expectations

46:52 Approaching Podcast Networks

50:17 Identifying red flags in sales pitches

57:17 Building Creator Collaborations

01:06:42 Streamers licensing podcasts

WITH GUESTS: A.J. FELICIANO, GENERAL MANAGER

Website | LinkedIn

A.J.’s rec: Podcast Pop Syllabus | Book: Our Iceberg is Melting by John Kotter and Holger Rathgeber

CONNECT WITH GREG WASSERMAN, HEAD OF RELATIONSHIPS FOR RSS.COM

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Greg’s book rec: Return on Courage by Ryan Berman

Systems, Sponsors, and Partners:

Hosted with RSS.com Podcast Hosting

Produced by Stories & Strategies

Content Repurposed with Castmagic

Podcast Project Management with Northflow

Please share your thoughts and record a voice note for me using this link.