PodcastOne and Celebrity Medium Jonathan Mark Enter Into an Exclusive Multi-Year Deal for “Connect with Jonathan Mark” Podcast

Rhea-AI Summary

PodcastOne (NASDAQ: PODC) has signed a multi-year exclusive deal with Celebrity Medium Jonathan Mark for his debut podcast, 'Connect with Jonathan Mark'. The podcast, launching on July 30, 2024, will feature 12 episodes in its first season, including celebrity guests like Nicole 'Snooki' Polizzi, Jenna Dewan, and Audrina Patridge. Jonathan Mark, known for his work with law enforcement agencies and celebrity clients, will explore the world of the unseen, offering connections to the other side and updates on true crime cases.

This addition marks the 11th new podcast for PodcastOne this year, expanding its network to 187 programs. The podcast will be available on major platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon. PodcastOne, a subsidiary of LiveOne (NASDAQ: LVO), reports over 2.1 billion downloads per year and reaches over 1 billion listeners monthly across its distribution network.

Positive

• PodcastOne secures exclusive multi-year deal with Celebrity Medium Jonathan Mark
• New podcast expands PodcastOne's network to 187 programs
• PodcastOne reports over 2.1 billion downloads per year
• PodcastOne's distribution network reaches over 1 billion listeners monthly

Negative

• None.

Insights

Media Industry Analyst

PodcastOne's exclusive multi-year deal with Celebrity Medium Jonathan Mark for the "Connect with Jonathan Mark" podcast is a strategic move in the competitive podcasting landscape. While the financial terms aren't disclosed, this partnership could potentially boost PodcastOne's audience reach and revenue.

The podcast's unique blend of celebrity appearances, true crime updates and paranormal content taps into multiple popular genres, which could attract a diverse listener base. However, the niche nature of mediumship content may limit its mainstream appeal.

From a business perspective, this deal aligns with PodcastOne's expansion strategy, marking their 11th new podcast addition this year. This growth brings their total to 187 programs, potentially strengthening their market position. However, the impact on PodcastOne's stock (NASDAQ: PODC) may be in the short term, as the success of a single podcast is unlikely to significantly move the needle for a company of this size.

While the partnership with a celebrity medium might generate buzz, investors should focus on broader metrics such as overall listener growth, ad revenue trends and the performance of PodcastOne's entire portfolio rather than individual show announcements.

Entertainment Industry Analyst

The launch of "Connect with Jonathan Mark" represents an interesting convergence of entertainment trends. By combining celebrity guests, true crime elements and paranormal content, PodcastOne is attempting to create a multi-faceted appeal that could potentially capture different audience segments.

The inclusion of high-profile guests like Jenna Dewan and Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi suggests a strategy to leverage existing fan bases. This could lead to cross-pollination of audiences, potentially boosting listener numbers. However, the long-term sustainability of this format remains to be seen, as it will depend on the podcast's ability to consistently secure engaging guests and maintain listener interest beyond the initial novelty.

From a content perspective, the podcast's focus on providing "closure" and "connection" taps into the growing wellness and self-help market. This angle could resonate with listeners seeking emotional comfort, potentially creating a loyal and engaged audience base.

While the paranormal genre has a dedicated following, it's worth noting that it's also a polarizing topic. This could limit the podcast's mainstream appeal and advertising potential. Investors should monitor how well the show balances its various elements to attract and retain a broad audience base.

Market Research Analyst

The launch of "Connect with Jonathan Mark" reflects PodcastOne's attempt to capitalize on several market trends. The true crime genre has seen significant growth in recent years, with podcasts like "Serial" and "My Favorite Murder" achieving mainstream success. By incorporating true crime elements, this new podcast could tap into this established market.

The paranormal and psychic medium niche, while smaller, has a dedicated and engaged audience. Market research indicates that 41% of Americans believe in psychics, suggesting a substantial potential listener base. However, this belief is not evenly distributed across demographics, which could impact the podcast's reach.

Celebrity involvement could be a key driver for initial listener acquisition. With 49% of podcast listeners saying they discover new podcasts through recommendations, having high-profile guests could significantly boost word-of-mouth marketing.

From a market perspective, it's important to note that the podcast industry is becoming increasingly saturated. As of 2023, there were over 4 million podcasts globally. In this crowded space, unique content and strong marketing will be important for "Connect with Jonathan Mark" to stand out and achieve sustainable growth.

Investors should monitor key performance indicators such as download numbers, listener retention rates and advertising revenue to gauge the podcast's success and its impact on PodcastOne's overall market position.

Podcast Provides Listeners an Opportunity to Connect with the Other Side

Season 1 Guests Include Jenna Dewan, Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi and Audrina Patridge

11th New Podcast Added to PodcastOne This Year, Expanding the Network to a Total of 187 Programs

LOS ANGELES, July 30, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PodcastOne (NASDAQ: PODC), a leading podcast platform and a subsidiary of LiveOne (NASDAQ: LVO), announced today that Celebrity Medium Jonathan Mark has joined PodcastOne network in a multi-year deal for his debut podcast Connect with Jonathan Mark. PodcastOne holds the exclusive sales and distribution rights for the podcast. The first season of Connect with Jonathan Mark launches on July 30, 2024 with twelve-episodes that feature an array of celebrity appearances, expert guests and updates on compelling true crime cases.

In Connect with Jonathan Mark Jonathan delves into the world of the unseen, offering solace and connection to both celebrities and everyday individuals and bridging the gap between this world and the next. In addition, listeners will get an exclusive peek into Jonathan Mark's life and stay updated on the intriguing true crime cases he's investigating, all in one captivating podcast. Upcoming guests include Nicole “Snookie” Polizzi, Jenna Dewan, Audrina Patridge and Pete Weber. New episodes drop weekly.

“Jonathan Mark is the real deal. From the moment he first guested on our network, we knew that he was special and that his ability would resonate with audiences. Podcast listeners connect with hosts on a unique level and we’re confident that Jonathan will capture them with his compelling and emotional content,” said Kit Gray, Co-Founder and President of PodcastOne.

“I’m excited to share my gift with as many people as I can. My mission is that this podcast not only brings closure to my guests but gives listeners a better understanding of the spirit world,” said Jonathan Mark, Celebrity Medium.

Jonathan Mark is represented by Antranig Balian (Manager, Mortar LA) and Jennifer Buonantony (Publicist, PPLA Agency).

Connect with Jonathan Mark is available through PodcastOne, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, Amazon and wherever podcasts are heard. PodcastOne’s full roster of top ranked podcasts includes programming across top genres such as news, comedy, true crime and society and culture, including shows such as The Adam Carolla Show, Baby Mamas No Drama, Varnamtown, The Prosecutors, Court Junkie, The Jordan Harbinger Show, Off the Vine with Kaitlyn Bristowe, LadyGang, Tactful Pettiness, Wholeheartedly with Kendall and Galey and The Schaub Show.

About Jonathan Mark
Jonathan Mark is one of the world's most sought-after mediums, regularly connecting clients with those that have passed to the other side. A former college lacrosse player who initially pursued a career as a police officer, he now collaborates with law enforcement agencies including the FBI and NYPD to help solve cases, many that are cold. He was a part of the infamous Gabby Petito case and recently he aided in cracking the Gilgo Beach case, a series of killings between 1996 and 2011 in which the remains of 11 people were found in Gilgo Beach, located on the South Shore of Long Island, New York. He has provided readings to numerous celebrity clients including Kanye West, Nina Dobrev, Alex Cooper, and many more. He also provides readings to those looking for closure including first responders, veterans, and those mourning the loss of parents, children, and close friends alike. To learn more, visit https://jonathanmark.net/.

About Podcast One
PodcastOne (Nasdaq: PODC) is a Los Angeles based podcast network founded in 2012 by Kit Gray and Norm Pattiz providing creators and advertisers with a full 360-degree solution in sales, marketing, public relations, production, and distribution delivering over 2.1 billion downloads per year with a community of 250 of the top podcasters, including Adam Carolla, Kaitlyn Bristowe, Jordan Harbinger, LadyGang, A&E's Cold Case Files and Varnamtown. PodcastOne has built a distribution network reaching over 1 billion listeners a month across all of its own properties, LiveOne (Nasdaq: LVO), Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Samsung and over 150 shows exclusively available in Tesla vehicles. PodcastOne is also the parent company of LaunchpadOne, an innovative self-serve platform developed to launch, host, distribute and monetize independent user-generated podcasts. For more information, visit PodcastOne.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Twitter at @podcastone. For more investor information, please visit ir.podcastone.com/overview/default.aspx.

About LiveOne
Headquartered in Los Angeles, CA, LiveOne (Nasdaq: LVO) is an award-winning, creator-first, music, entertainment, and technology platform focused on delivering premium experiences and content worldwide through memberships and live and virtual events. LiveOne's wholly-owned subsidiaries include Slacker Radio, PodcastOne (Nasdaq: PODC), PPVOne, CPS, LiveXLive, DayOne Music Publishing, Drumify and Splitmind. LiveOne is available on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Spotify, Samsung, Amazon Fire, Android TV, and through STIRR’s OTT applications. For more information, visit liveone.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and Twitter at @liveone. For more investor information, please visit ir.liveone.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release are “forward-looking statements,” which may often, but not always, be identified by the use of such words as “may,” “might,” “will,” “will likely result,” “would,” “should,” “estimate,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “intend,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “seek,” “continue,” “target” or the negative of such terms or other similar expressions. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements, including: LiveOne’s reliance on one key customer for a substantial percentage of its revenue; LiveOne’s and PodcastOne’s ability to consummate any proposed financing, acquisition, spin-out, special dividend, merger, distribution or transaction, including the spin-out of LiveOne’s pay-per-view business, the timing of the consummation of any such proposed event, including the risks that a condition to the consummation of any such event would not be satisfied within the expected timeframe or at all, or that the consummation of any proposed financing, acquisition, spin-out, merger, special dividend, distribution or transaction will not occur or whether any such event will enhance shareholder value; PodcastOne’s ability to continue as a going concern; PodcastOne’s ability to attract, maintain and increase the number of its listeners; PodcastOne identifying, acquiring, securing and developing content; LiveOne’s intent to repurchase shares of its and/or PodcastOne’s common stock from time to time under LiveOne’s announced stock repurchase program and the timing, price, and quantity of repurchases, if any, under the program; LiveOne’s ability to maintain compliance with certain financial and other covenants; PodcastOne successfully implementing its growth strategy, including relating to its technology platforms and applications; management’s relationships with industry stakeholders; uncertain and unfavorable outcomes in legal proceedings; changes in economic conditions; competition; risks and uncertainties applicable to the businesses of LiveOne and/or its other subsidiaries; and other risks, uncertainties and factors including, but not limited to, those described in PodcastOne’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on July 1, 2024, and in PodcastOne’s other filings and submissions with the SEC. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof, and PodcastOne disclaims any obligation to update these statements, except as may be required by law. PodcastOne intends that all forward-looking statements be subject to the safe-harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

Press Contacts:

For PodcastOne
310.246.4600
Susan@Guttmanpr.com

Investor Relations:
Jason Assad
678-570-6791
jwassad@podcastone.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at:
https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c12d47d8-f694-46ab-865c-00140d8291c3

FAQ

When will the 'Connect with Jonathan Mark' podcast launch on PodcastOne (PODC)?

The 'Connect with Jonathan Mark' podcast is set to launch on July 30, 2024, on PodcastOne (NASDAQ: PODC).

How many episodes will the first season of 'Connect with Jonathan Mark' on PodcastOne (PODC) have?

The first season of 'Connect with Jonathan Mark' on PodcastOne (NASDAQ: PODC) will feature 12 episodes.

Which celebrities are expected to appear on 'Connect with Jonathan Mark' podcast on PodcastOne (PODC)?

Upcoming guests on 'Connect with Jonathan Mark' podcast include Nicole 'Snooki' Polizzi, Jenna Dewan, Audrina Patridge, and Pete Weber.

How many new podcasts has PodcastOne (PODC) added this year?

PodcastOne (NASDAQ: PODC) has added 11 new podcasts this year, including 'Connect with Jonathan Mark'.