Shots Studios Expands Audio Footprint With Cumulus Partnership.

Brothers John and Sam Shahidi are the co-founders of Shots Studios, a media company that creates original mobile-first content, primarily for YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. As YouTube has become a big outlet for podcast distribution, their business has also expanded into audio with the Shots Podcast Network. They are now making a move to grow it further.

Shots Podcast Network has formed an alliance with Cumulus Media, making its shows part of the Cumulus Podcast Network. As part of Westwood One’s portfolio, the network will distribute, market, and monetize the Shots Podcast Network with this new partnership.

“This partnership with Cumulus is a game-changer,” CEO John Shahidi says in the announcement. “Their infrastructure allows us to amplify our creators and connect with audiences in new ways. We’re excited to grow the Shots Podcast Network and continue pushing boundaries in podcasting.”

Under the deal, the Shots Podcast Network continues to develop, produce, and own all content. The company was has in the past helped launch podcasts with talent including the Nelk Boys, Ryan Clark, Fred Taylor, Channing Crowder, Mike Tyson and Lele Pons. The network has grown to about a dozen podcasts, including hit shows like flagship “Full Send Podcast,” hosted by Kyle Forgeard; “One Night with Steiny,” featuring Aaron “Steiny” Steinberg; and “The Rush with Maxx,” hosted by NFL star Maxx Crosby.

“Shots is one of the most dynamic and influential creator networks in media today,” said Collin Jones, President of Westwood One and Cumulus Podcast Network. “Their fearless approach to content and ability to engage millions of fans makes them a perfect fit for the Cumulus Podcast Network.”

The addition of the Shots Podcast Network will help Cumulus make up for the loss of The Daily Wire and the end of Dan Bongino’s hit podcast, which the company says has hurt its podcast revenue this year. It said last month that had the impact of those two factors been excluded, its podcast revenue would have grown 15% during the third quarter.