Netflix Eyes YouTube’s Throne With New Podcast Power Move

Netflix’s Next Big Move: Turning Podcasts Into Streaming Gold

Netflix isn’t done shaking up the entertainment industry. After revolutionising the way we watch TV and films, the streaming giant now has its sights set on the booming world of video podcastsan arena dominated by YouTube.

According to insiders, Netflix is in advanced talks with iHeartMedia, the media powerhouse behind hit podcasts like The Breakfast Club, Jay Shetty Podcast, Stuff You Should Know, and Las Culturistas. The goal? To bring exclusive video versions of these shows to Netflix, cutting YouTube out of the equation.

If the deal goes through, full episodes could disappear from YouTube entirelya bold move that signals Netflix’s intent to become a one-stop shop for both scripted and unscripted video content.

The Streaming War Goes Audio-Visual

The idea of watching a podcast might have seemed strange a few years ago, but in 2025, it’s the norm. Research from Edison shows that nearly 77% of new podcast listeners now prefer watching their favourite hosts instead of just listening. And with over a billion people consuming podcasts on YouTube each month, Netflix clearly wants a slice of that pie.

Last month, Netflix struck a similar deal with Spotify, acquiring exclusive rights to video versions of top shows like The Bill Simmons Podcast. That partnership will see episodes removed from YouTube in 2026a sign that Netflix is serious about reshaping how podcasts are distributed and monetised.

Meanwhile, Fox Corp.’s Tubi has already joined the trend, signing a deal with Crime Junkie host Ashley Flowers to bring her entire Audiochuck catalogue to the platform. Suddenly, video podcasting has become the new battlefield in the streaming wars.

The Risk and Reward for Podcasters

For podcasters, Netflix’s interest is both a blessing and a gamble. YouTube remains the king of podcast visibility and ad revenue, meaning creators who pull their shows from the platform risk losing major income. But the potential upsideaccess to Netflix’s 260 million global subscribers and Hollywood-level production backingis impossible to ignore.

This move could also shift how audiences perceive podcasts. Instead of being seen as niche, talk-heavy content, they might evolve into full-fledged visual experiences, blending conversation, storytelling, and cinematic flair.

Fans React: “This Could Change Everything”

On social media, reactions have been mixed. Some fans are excited about Netflix’s involvement, calling it a “game-changer” that could finally bring more polish and diversity to podcast production. Others are wary, worried that taking podcasts off YouTube will make them harder to accessor, worse, locked behind a paywall.

As one user posted on X : “If Netflix gets The Breakfast Club, that’s my morning YouTube routine gone.”

A New Era of Streaming Convergence

The line between podcasts, YouTube videos, and streaming shows is blurring faster than ever. What began as an audio-only hobby is now shaping up to be one of the most competitive corners of digital entertainment.

For Netflix, this move could be the next step in diversifying beyond films and series. For iHeartMedia, it’s a chance to turn its vast podcast empire into a visual powerhouse. And for audiences? It’s yet another sign that the way we watchand listenis changing right before our eyes.

{Source:MyBroadBand}

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