Core Insights - iHeartMedia, the leading podcast publisher globally, announced the 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards in partnership with SXSW, set to take place on March 16, 2026, at ACL Live in Austin, Texas [1][2] - The event will feature various podcast genres, with winners determined by industry leaders, while the Podcast of the Year will be fan-voted [2][3] - The awards will also honor individuals with three Icon Awards for significant contributions to podcasting, including Jay Shetty, Terry Gross, and Hrishikesh Hirway [2][3] Event Details - The 2026 iHeartPodcast Awards will be held on March 16, 2026, at 7 p.m. CDT, and will be live-broadcasted on iHeartMedia Radio Stations and the iHeartRadio app [1] - The event will be open to select SXSW badge holders, emphasizing the integration of podcasting within the cultural conversation at SXSW [3] Nominees and Categories - Nominees for Podcast of the Year include "Good Hang with Amy Poehler," "The Breakfast Club," "The Daily," and others [2][4] - The awards will cover multiple categories such as Best Business & Finance, Best Comedy, Best Crime, Best Pop Culture, and more, showcasing a wide range of podcast genres [5][6] Industry Impact - Podcasting is recognized as a rapidly growing medium, with iHeartMedia expressing excitement about celebrating the storytellers pushing audio boundaries [2] - The iHeartPodcast Awards have become a significant event for the audio community, reflecting the cultural relevance of podcasting at SXSW [3] Company Background - iHeartMedia is the largest audio media company in America, with a significant audience reach and a leading position in the podcasting space, as recognized by Podtrac and Triton [16]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company generated adjusted EBITDA of $246 million in Q4 2024, an increase of 18.2% compared to the prior year [6][20] - Consolidated revenues for the quarter were up 4.8% year over year, but down 1.8% when excluding political impacts [7][19] - The company reported a GAAP operating income of $104.5 million, compared to $79.8 million in the prior year quarter [20] - Free cash flow was negative $24 million due to debt transaction expenses and modernization costs, but would have been $111 million when adjusted [25] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Digital Audio Group generated revenues of $339 million, up 6.7% year over year, with adjusted EBITDA of $119 million, up 2.1% [7][21] - Podcast revenues within the Digital Audio Group grew 6% year over year, totaling $140 million [21] - The Multiplatform Group's revenues were flat at $684 million, with adjusted EBITDA of $150 million, up 5.9% [13][23] - The Audio and Media Services Group saw revenues of $98 million, up 44.7% year over year, with adjusted EBITDA of $49 million, up 136% [15][23] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted a slowdown in non-political advertising revenue just before the presidential election, which did not rebound as expected [19] - The Los Angeles market was disrupted by wildfires, impacting revenue, but is expected to normalize [46] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on modernizing its operations, flattening the organization, and eliminating redundancies to accelerate earnings growth [5][6] - A comprehensive exchange transaction was completed to extend debt maturities and reduce overall debt levels, enhancing financial flexibility [5][24] - The company aims to integrate broadcast radio inventory into programmatic platforms to unlock new revenue opportunities [16][17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism for the year ahead despite economic uncertainties such as tariffs, inflation, and consumer confidence declines [26][48] - The company expects Q1 2025 adjusted EBITDA to be in the range of $100 million to $110 million, with revenues expected to decline low single digits compared to the prior year [27][28] - Management remains confident in the strength of their assets and the potential for recovery in advertising spending [49][50] Other Important Information - The company launched a redesigned iHeartRadio app, receiving positive feedback from listeners [12] - The company is the number one podcast publisher in the U.S. and is expanding its leadership position globally [10][11] Q&A Session Summary Question: How is the company thinking about monetizing broadcast listening going forward? - Management emphasized the importance of programmatic advertising and automated buying to fit broadcast radio inventory into modern buying systems [31][34] Question: Can you address the video podcasting opportunity? - Management noted that while there is interest in video podcasting, the majority of podcast users prefer audio, and the focus remains on consumer preferences [39][40] Question: What were the drivers of January's advertising growth? - Management indicated that January's growth was a result of a delayed response from advertisers following the election, but noted that Q1 is typically the lowest revenue quarter [58][60] Question: What are the expected drivers of growth in the podcasting business this year? - Management highlighted expanding product offerings, audience growth, and increased demand as key drivers for podcasting revenue growth [66] Question: Why was political advertising revenue lower than expected? - Management explained that political campaigns are becoming more data-driven, and the company is working to adapt to these changes for future cycles [67][68]