Spotify podcast push may be cooling. According to a TechCrunch source, the streaming service is discontinuing 11 original podcasts from its Gimlet and Parcast studios, including How to Save a Planet, Crimes of Passion, and Horoscope Today (in the second quarter of 2023).
MORE FROM RAVZGADGET: Windows 11 Adds Support Third-Party Widgets And New Teams Video Feature
The cancellations will also result in the layoff of “less than” 5% of Spotify’s podcast team, with some employees transitioning to other podcasts.
The company stated that it does not comment on employee turnover. Spotify has also appointed new managing directors for Gimlet and Parcast, according to the source. Spotify Studios and The Ringer are unaffected.
This is the first time Spotify has removed multiple podcasts at once.
While the reported insider did not specify the reason for the move, it is believed that the service is dropping underperforming shows in order to focus on full-fledged exclusives ranging from existing hits like Batman Unburied to upcoming projects.
If true, such a pruning effort is not surprising. Spotify has over 500 original and exclusive podcasts, and not all of them are guaranteed to grow large audiences.
MORE FROM RAVZGADGET: Amazon Halts Field Tests Of Its Delivery Robot Scout
The strategy could help Spotify not only improve its focus, but also cut costs at a time when many tech companies are either slowing new hires or laying off large numbers of employees.
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.