Report: Netflix Looks To Bring iHeartMedia Podcasts To Its Platform.

Netflix is apparently looking at adding video podcasts from publishers other than Spotify, with which it announced a deal last month to feature a selection of shows on its platform. Netflix is reportedly also in talks with iHeartMedia to distribute some of its video episodes.

While neither company has confirmed that, Bloomberg reports that similar to the arrangement with Spotify, Netflix is seeking exclusive access to the video episodes. That would mean hit podcasts like “The Breakfast Club,” “Las Culturistas,” and “On Purpose with Jay Shetty” would no longer be on YouTube.

News of a potential Netflix deal sent iHeartMedia’s stock price soaring. Shares jumped 17% in early Tuesday trading in New York.

Netflix executives said last month that they’re looking at moving deeper into video podcast distribution if subscribers embrace the content. Co-CEO Greg Peters said during an earnings call last month that podcasts could offer even more entertainment options for subscribers when they’re looking for pop culture, lifestyle, sports or true crime.

“We’re going to build into this category like we do with our other categories based on demand signals that we get from our members,” Peters said. “We see this as really the opportunity to integrate high-quality video podcasts that broadens the Netflix offering beyond all the incredible films and series, beyond the live events that we are building, stand-up specials, and games. We hope that ultimately reinforces our value as the most important service for your entertainment needs.”

Earlier this year, Netflix executives also suggested that as part of their push to embrace the next generation of creators, it could also look to video podcasters posting content on rival YouTube. The company hasn’t signed any deals for user-generated content so far, but Netflix executives say the opportunity remains.

In the near term, the Spotify “co-exclusive partnership” will see a selection of shows produced by Spotify Studios and The Ringer make video episodes available on Netflix early next year. Details of the licensing agreement have not been disclosed, including how much Spotify will be paid — if anything — and how long the deal runs. Ads baked into an episode will carry over to Netflix, but the video streamer will not run other commercials alongside the podcasts. It is also unclear whether the creators will earn additional revenue for having their shows distributed on Netflix. But in the announcement, Spotify says that creators will benefit from the alliance by allowing them to captivate even more fans worldwide.