iHeartMedia and TikTok have announced an ambitious, first-of-its-kind partnership aimed at redefining audio, podcasting, and live event experiences in the United States. This groundbreaking alliance will enable some of the most popular TikTok creators to step into iHeartMedia’s extensive entertainment ecosystem, bridging the world of short-form video with the immense scale of podcasting, broadcast, digital radio, and live events.
TikTok Podcast Network Expands Creator Storytelling
Launching with up to 25 new podcasts hosted by TikTok stars, the TikTok Podcast Network will showcase creator perspectives from trend insights to personal stories. To support this, iHeartMedia will open state-of-the-art, co-branded studios in Los Angeles, New York, and Atlanta, fully equipped for audio and video production. These podcasts will be widely distributed by iHeartPodcasts and available everywhere podcasts are heard, with highlights and clips pushed directly to TikTok users.
TikTok Radio Makes Audio Feel Like Scrolling
TikTok Radio will pair TikTok creators with iHeartRadio personalities across national broadcast stations and digital platforms. The format is designed to make radio feel as dynamic and trend-driven as scrolling on TikTok, featuring hot new songs, cultural storytelling, and segments such as “Behind-the-Charts” and “New Music Fridays.” Top stations like KIIS FM Los Angeles and Z100 New York will anchor this new offering, driving fresh music discovery in sync with TikTok’s viral moments.
Live Events Unlock Creator Power
Creators will gain unprecedented access to iHeartMedia’s landmark live events, including the iHeartRadio Music Festival and Jingle Ball, enabling brands to connect with audiences on the largest stages via real-time activations and content sharing. This approach seeks to foster deeper engagement and showcase voices previously limited to digital platforms.
Executive Insights: Scale Meets Creative Energy
“This partnership connects TikTok’s cultural energy and creator community with the unmatched scale and reach of iHeartMedia,” said Rich Bressler, President, COO, and CFO for 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.”
Dan Page, Global Head of Media and Licensing Partnerships at TikTok, added, “This partnership with iHeartMedia opens new opportunities for creators and brands to reach wider audiences, collaborate across platforms, and extend creativity. Together, we’re amplifying the connection between artists, creators, and our community through the shared power of cross-platform storytelling.”
Strengthening Creator-Driven Storytelling
Earlier in the year, TikTok and iHeart kicked off with “Next up: Live Music,” a TikTok LIVE-exclusive singing competition amplifying new artists like @kiralise—demonstrating the power of creator-driven music discovery. This next chapter expands support for emerging talent and leverages both companies’ passion for community-driven content.
Massive Reach Across Audio, Video, and Live Events
iHeartMedia, Inc. holds the largest podcast publishing footprint, delivers the biggest live music events, and maintains five times more social media followers than its next closest competitor in audio, giving this partnership the unique ability to drive scale and impact across both digital and physical platforms.
