Netflix in talks to stream SiriusXM podcasts in bid to take on YouTube: reports

Netflix is in early talks with SiriusXM to make the satellite radio giant’s video podcasts exclusive to its platform, the latest step in the streamer’s push into podcasting, multiple outlets reported Wednesday.

A person familiar with the discussions told TheWrap that the proposed deal would give Netflix exclusive rights to distribute SiriusXM’s top shows — cutting off rivals like YouTube, which currently dominates the video podcast market.

The Post has sought comment from Netflix and SiriusXM, which are yet to discuss the negotiations publicly.

3

SiriusXM operates one of the largest podcast networks in the US, with chart-topping titles such as “Call Her Daddy,” “SmartLess,” “Rotten Mango,” “Morbid” and “Dateline NBC.”

Edison Research ranks it as the No. 1 podcast network by audience reach.

Netflix’s focus on podcasting comes at it has been seeking new ways to expand its content ecosystem beyond traditional film and television.

Earlier this month, the streaming giant struck its first major podcasting deal with Spotify, agreeing to stream a curated selection of that company’s video podcasts — including “The Bill Simmons Podcast,” “The Rewatchables,” “The Zach Lowe Show” and “Conspiracy Theories.”

Tho programs will appear on Netflix early next year and will no longer be available on YouTube.

Industry sources told The Hollywood Reporter that Netflix has also approached iHeartMedia about a similar arrangement, seeking exclusive streaming rights to video versions of popular podcasts such as “The Breakfast Club” and “Stuff You Should Know.”

3

It was also reported Tuesday that Netflix has been contacting some of Hollywood’s top talent agencies — WME, UTA, and CAA — in an effort to recruit more on-camera podcasters ahead of the rollout of its video podcast hub, planned for the first fiscal quarter of 2026.

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos hinted at the expansion in April, calling video podcasts “a natural extension” of the company’s content strategy and a key to keeping subscribers engaged.

“As the popularity of video podcasts grow, I suspect you’ll see some of them find their way to Netflix,” he said.

Meanwhile, YouTube has been cementing its dominance in the podcasting space. Google’s video platform surpassed 1 billion monthly podcast viewers earlier this year, according to industry data cited by Bloomberg.

By aligning with established podcast publishers like Spotify, iHeartMedia and SiriusXM, Netflix aims to create a large library that mirrors the range of its film and series offerings.

Executives at Netflix see podcasts as a way to extend viewing time and cross-promote original productions, according to reports.

3

SiriusXM has been trying to retool its digital strategy as satellite radio growth slows.

The company’s podcasts and celebrity-driven content have become a major part of its effort to attract younger audiences and advertisers.

Shares of iHeartMedia surged more than 37% Tuesday following reports of its talks with Netflix, hitting their highest level in two years, according to StockStory.