Audacy has announced the launch of the Audacy Creator Lab, an initiative designed to support podcast creators and deliver advertising opportunities at scale. The company unveiled the new platform during the recently concluded Podcast Movement Evolutions in Chicago.

Developed on the foundation of Podcorn, which Audacy acquired in 2021, the Creator Lab expands upon the company’s creator marketplace of over 20,000 shows and 40,000 creators. The platform enables advertisers to reach targeted audiences across multiple hosting platforms while supporting podcasters of various sizes.

“When paired with The Audacy Podcast Network and our owned and operated shows, the Audacy Creator Lab expands our podcast offerings to now include deeply engaged, niche communities and the next generation of creators,” Chris Oliviero, Chief Business Officer at Audacy, said in a press release.

The Creator Lab offers monetization through host-read sponsorships and dynamically inserted pre-recorded ads. The initiative also includes free hosting and monetization services for emerging podcasters, allowing creators to direct more resources toward content production.

Leadership Changes Support Digital Audio Growth

The Creator Lab launch follows recent executive appointments at Audacy. Last month, the company elevated Leah Reis-Dennis to Head of Podcasts, where she will lead content, partnerships, and marketing across Audacy’s podcast portfolio spanning sports, comedy, lifestyle, true crime, and other genres.

“Leah has been instrumental in the growth and success of our podcast portfolio, and we’re honored to elevate her into this expanded leadership role,” Oliviero noted. “Her creativity and strategic vision will drive our continued investment in digital audio and podcasting.”

Reis-Dennis, who joined Audacy in 2022, previously served as VP of Podcast Content Strategy and Business Development. During her tenure, she helped bring award-winning titles to Audacy’s portfolio, including “Search Engine,” “Office Ladies,” “The Severance Podcast,” “PAVE,” “The Moth,” and “Disgraceland.”

Executive Restructuring

These podcast initiatives occur amid broader leadership changes at Audacy. On March 17, the company appointed Kelli Turner as President and Chief Executive Officer. Turner had been serving as Interim President and CEO since January when former President and CEO David Field stepped down.

Simultaneously, Chris Oliviero was named Chief Business Officer after previously serving as Market President for Audacy New York. Bob Philips was appointed Chief Revenue Officer, having previously been President of Audacy Networks and Multi-Market Sales.

“This is one of the most dynamic businesses in media and entertainment, and I am looking forward to partnering with Chris Oliviero and all of our teams to build on our momentum with audiences, creators, and advertisers,” Turner stated regarding her appointment.

The company also announced several executive departures, including COO Susan Larkin, CDO J.D. Crowley, CMO Paul Suchman, and EVP & General Counsel Andrew Sutor. Mike Dash has been named EVP & General Counsel, succeeding Sutor.