James Hale

• UMG’s new TikTok and Spotify deals are what we should expect in the age of AI
• Spotify is doing creator memberships, and also AI-generated podcasts

  The global podcast industry raked in $9.2 billion last year, surging 27% from 2024. That's a neat chunk of change--a chunk that's expected to grow in 2026 and beyond.

  
• Podcasts raked in $9.2B last year, with video content “changing the picture.” But what makes a podcast a podcast?

  
• X says it’s entering its “creator era” with a new sponcon marketplace

  
• Top 5 Branded Videos of the Week: Modern YouTube
• Top 5 Branded Videos of the Week: Manga energy pink sauce
• Roblox just hired its first Chief Growth Officer
• YouTube is backing creators–and their ambitious shows–in a big way at Brandcast 2026
• Top 5 Branded Videos of the Week: Who’s hungry?
• The Amazing Digital Circus finale hits $7.5 million in theater presales weeks before debut
• Tired of seeing ads on TikTok? That’ll be five bucks, please
• Disney is doubling down on short-form–and creator partnerships