iHeartPodcasts and M. William Phelps Announce Season 5 of Their Hit Podcast Franchise “Paper Ghosts: The Texas Teen Murders”

The 9-part limited investigative series debuts November 5, 2025

Listen to the official trailer now, HERE

WHAT: The chart-topping true crime iHeartPodcast “Paper Ghosts” is back for its fifth season. The new installment, “Paper Ghosts: The Texas Teen Murders” will take listeners back to 1983, when two teens were found murdered, execution-style, on a hill in Weatherford, Texas. The investigation was botched with rumors and speculation running rampant throughout the town and into the surrounding areas. Over the next 42 years, law enforcement got close to finding answers but always backed away.

Michelle “Shelly” Cauliflower, 14, and Vincent Tejerina, Jr., 16, were out on their first car date but failed to come home. The next morning, Vincent’s father found the teens shot dead inside Vincent’s car. Their deaths were just two in a series of local teen murders, strange “suicides” and “accidents” which still need to be accounted for and explained.  

Veteran investigative journalist and host M. William Phelps has spent several years putting together a case and uncovering answers families have been waiting on for decades. Over 9 episodes, the podcast will dig into more than 100 hours of Phelps’ completed interviews from scores of witnesses and experts including law enforcement and anonymous sources no one has spoken to before, putting together a case so unfathomable it has become almost hard to believe, cracking open a narrative of what likely happened and who is responsible.

“The parallels between this case and the television series ‘Breaking Bad’ seriously made me take a look at if the TV producers used this case as the basis for their show,” said Phelps. “The answers go all the way up to the top of the law enforcement chain and there are people out there who need to answer for these crimes. We all know the hierarchy of sheriffs’ departments in this country and how they seem to have their own version of justice. In Texas, they say, everything is bigger—and that certainly includes all the corruption.”

WHO: Executive-produced, written and hosted by M. William Phelps—veteran podcaster of the chart-topping hit iHeartPodcasts “Paper Ghosts” and “White Eagle,” and hit weekly show “Crossing The Line With M. William Phelps.” Phelps is a New York Times bestselling author of nearly 50 true-crime books, an investigative journalist and tv personality. The series is co-produced by M. William Phelps, LLC and iHeartPodcasts.

WHEN: The first episode will premiere November 5, 2025 with new episodes weekly on Wednesdays.

WHERE: “Paper Ghosts: The Texas Teen Murders” will be distributed by iHeartPodcasts and available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard. Listen to the trailer now HERE.

PODCAST PLAYER EMBED:

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About M. William Phelps

M. William Phelps is the New York Times best-selling author of 46 nonfiction books and winner of the Excellence in (Investigative) Journalism Award from the Society of Professional Journalists. Phelps has written for numerous publications, including the Providence Journal, Connecticut Magazine and Hartford Courant. Diversifying his talents, Phelps consulted on the first season of the hit Showtime cable television series Dexter and has executive produced and starred in over 350 hours of true crime television. All of which gives him a confluence of expertise and experience to bring to true crime fanatics. Phelps grew up in East Hartford, Connecticut, and now splits his time between Tolland County and Stonington, CT. In July 2017, he published his definitive, 10-year project about Happy Face Killer, Keith Hunter Jesperson, DANGEROUS GROUND: My Friendship with a Serial Killer. Reach Phelps at mwilliamphelps@comcast.net/860-519-9382 - @mwilliamphelps across all social media.

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NBCUniversal Extends Exclusive Audio Partnership with iHeartMedia for Milan Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games

Audio of NBC Linear Coverage of Milan Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games Will Be Presented 24/7 by iHeartRadio

NBCUniversal Will Leverage iHeart’s Audio Platforms and Programs to Promote Tune-In for Extensive Olympic Winter Games 2026 Coverage

NBCUniversal and iHeartMedia To Collaborate on Olympic Episodes for Popular iHeartPodcasts; Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers Return to Host Original Winter Olympics-Focused iHeartPodcast “Two Guys, Five Rings”

New York, NY – October 29, 2025 – NBCUniversal today announced that iHeartMedia will once again serve as its exclusive audio partner for the upcoming Milan Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games from February 6 to February 22. As part of the agreement, iHeartRadio will provide 24/7 play-by-play audio channels of NBCUniversal’s linear coverage of the Games; premiere a new Winter Games season of the original iHeartPodcast “Two Guys, Five Rings” hosted by Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers; produce Olympic-specific episodes from some of iHeart’s top podcasts; and promote tune-in for NBCU’s comprehensive coverage.

“Coming off the tremendous success we had in Paris, we’re excited to renew this partnership with iHeartMedia and provide fans with the best Olympic audio content,” said Aileen Sokol, VP, Content Partnership Development, NBC Sports. “From podcasts featuring stars Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers, to daily coverage of all our linear programming, this partnership allows iHeart’s extensive audio audience to hear NBCU’s Olympic coverage away from their televisions and screens.”

iHeart’s play-by-play channels will bring fans closer to the excitement of every gold-medal finish and triumphant moment set to come from NBCU’s wide-ranging coverage of the Winter Games in Italy -- with a special focus on Team USA. NBCUniversal’s coverage on iHeart’s channels is expected to include U.S. team ice hockey games, as well as figure skating, speed skating, skiing, snowboarding and much more.

“We’re eager to build upon our relationship with NBCUniversal and once again deliver premium audio coverage of the Olympic Games, this time focusing on the awe-inspiring athletes and incredible stories set to come from the 2026 Olympic Winter Games,” said Michael Biondo, President of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships for iHeartMedia. “As the leading destination for sports audio, we’re excited to deepen the connection between audiences and the athletes they love.”

In addition to iHeart’s extensive play-by-play coverage, Saturday Night Live and “Wicked: For Good’s”  Bowen Yang and actor-comedian Matt Rogers (“No Good Deed” and “Good Fortune”) return to host a new season of their Olympic-focused original iHeartPodcast “Two Guys, Five Rings: Matt, Bowen & The Olympics.” The podcast is set to launch weekly episodes in early January, stretching from before the Olympic Opening Ceremony and continuing through the Closing Ceremony in February. Listen here for Matt and Bowen’s season one look ahead to the Milan Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

iHeartPodcasts will also produce Olympic-themed episodes for some of its most popular podcasts, including “Stuff You Missed in History Class,” “Ridiculous History,” “Dudes on Dudes with Gronk and Jules” and “Revisionist History” with Malcolm Gladwell. These shows are distributed by iHeartPodcasts and available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard.

With unique and unforgettable backdrops throughout northern Italy, the 2026 Olympic Winter Games will span from Milan to Cortina with events taking place across multiple venues and regions. This will be the second time the Olympics are held in Cortina (1956 Olympic Winter Games) and the fourth time overall that Italy has hosted an Olympic Games (1960 Rome Olympics and 2006 Olympic Winter Games in Torino, which is the last time there was a Winter Games in the Central European Time Zone).

In February 2025, NBCU announced that the NBC broadcast network and streaming service Peacock will be the company’s primary platforms for its coverage of the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympic Winter Games, scheduled for Feb. 6-22, 2026. Click here for more programming information and here for information about the Paralympics, which will take place March 6-15, 2026.

NBCUniversal owns the U.S. media rights to the Olympic Games through 2036, which are scheduled for Milan Cortina (2026), Los Angeles (2028), French Alps (2030), Brisbane (2032), Salt Lake City (2034), and the 2036 Summer Games.

About NBCUniversal

NBCUniversal is one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies. We create world-class content, which we distribute across our portfolio of film, television, and streaming, and bring to life through our theme parks and consumer experiences. We own and operate leading entertainment and news brands, including NBC, NBC News, MSNBC, CNBC, NBC Sports, Telemundo, NBC Local Stations, Bravo, USA Network, and Peacock, our premium ad-supported streaming service. We produce and distribute premier filmed entertainment and programming through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group and Universal Studio Group, and have world-renowned theme parks and attractions through Universal Destinations & Experiences. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation. Visit www.nbcuniversal.com for more information.

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iHeartPodcasts Announces “Welcome to the Family with Telma and Kellie,” The Ultimate Insider’s Look at a Hit 90s Sitcom

Debuting November 5, hosts and castmates Telma Hopkins and Kellie Williams will recount every episode, reveal never-before-heard stories and share their personal experiences as stars of the longest-running and most-watched series featuring a Black cast

Special guests will include original cast and crew members Reginald VelJohnson, Shawn Harrison, Bob Boyett and more

Listen to the trailer now HERE

WHAT: iHeartPodcasts, the no. 1 podcast publisher according to Podtrac, and Audiation announced “Welcome to the Family with Telma and Kellie,” the ultimate insider’s look at the hit 90s sitcom “Family Matters,” told through the words of show stars Telma Hopkins (Aunt Rachel) and Kellie Williams (Laura Winslow) - castmates who have become like family over the years. In the new original podcast, the duo will recount every episode from the series in order, taking listeners behind the scenes to reveal never-before-heard stories, recount hilarious blunders and share their personal experiences as the show grew into one of the longest-running and most-watched series featuring a Black cast. Guests will include members of the cast and production team including series producer Bob Boyett, Reggie VelJohnson (Carl Winslow), Shawn Harrison (Waldo Faldo) and more. Additionally, Hopkins and Williams will answer listener questions about the show. In the first episode, the hosts will discuss their personal journey to being cast on the series, their favorite moments from filming the pilot and the episode's storyline.

WHO: From child star to celebrated actress, producer, and philanthropist, Kellie Shanygne Williams has established herself as a multifaceted talent in the entertainment industry. Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Kellie began her journey into acting at just four years old. Her breakout moment came with a home video audition, filmed by her father, that secured her the iconic role of Laura Winslow on the beloved sitcom “Family Matters.” The show became a cultural phenomenon, and Kellie’s portrayal of Laura cemented her place in the hearts of audiences nationwide. Her performances and contributions to the industry have earned her numerous award nominations and recognition as a dedicated artist and storyteller. 

Telma Hopkins is a renowned actress and singer who first gained fame as a member of Tony Orlando and Dawn. She got her start as a teenager in Detroit singing background vocals on some of Motown's most memorable hits like "Reach Out," "Heard It Through The Grapevine" and "That's The Way Love Is," as well as Isaac Hayes' classic soundtrack from the movie "Shaft." After her singing career, Telma showcased her comedic talent in sitcoms like Bosom Buddies, Gimme a Break!, and Family Matters, earning multiple NAACP Image Award nominations and a BET Comedy Award. Her film credits include The Wood, Running Out of Time, and The Matrix Resurrections. Telma recently appeared in “Brewster’s Millions: Christmas” and has been featured in Netflix series “Dead To Me,” “Family Reunion,” “The Family Business,” and soap opera “The Young and the Restless.” She is also one of the stars of the 2025 Amazon series “Clean Slate,” alongside George Wallace and Laverne Cox. 

WHEN:Welcome To The Family with Telma and Kellie” will premiere on November 5, 2025. New episodes will be available weekly on Wednesdays. Listen to the trailer now, HERE.

WHERE:Welcome To The Family with Telma and Kellie” is distributed by iHeartPodcasts and will be available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard. Visit thefamilymatterspod.com for more information.

ASSETS: Download the hi-res cover art HERE.

Embed the podcast audio player into any website or article using the below HTML code:

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ABOUT AUDIATION, INC.

Audiation is a Peabody Award-nominated podcast company based in New York. The company produces commissioned and original series in partnership with brands, celebrities, content creators and thought leaders — while also providing a full suite of related services. It partners with clients around the globe to produce chart-topping series that span a variety of topics and industries. Audiation Originals include “Gender Spiral with Ally Beardsley and Babette Thomas” (Dual Gold Award winner in the 2025 Signal Awards), “Leaving the Island” and “Four Strings and the Truth.” Visit audiation.fm for more information.

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The 2025 iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina Brought the Biggest Names in Latin Music Together in Miami on October 25 at Kaseya Center

The event featured performances by Gilberto Santa Rosa, Morat, Kapo, Oscar D'León, Danny Ocean, Olga Tañón, Chyno y Nacho, Elvis Crespo, DJ Nelson and Lenier

Gilberto Santa Rosa received the iHeartRadio Corazón Latino Award presented by State Farm®

NEW YORK – October 27, 2025 – The 2025 iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina celebrated the power of Latin music in popular culture with performances by Gilberto Santa Rosa, Morat, Kapo, Oscar D'León, Danny Ocean, Olga Tañón, Chyno y Nacho, Elvis Crespo, DJ Nelson and Lenier at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida on Saturday, October 25. Enrique Santos, President and Chief Creative Officer of iHeartLatino and on-air talent for iHeartRadio, hosted the event and Gilberto Santa Rosa received the iHeartRadio Corazón Latino Award presented by State Farm.

Renowned as El Caballero de la Salsa, Gilberto Santa Rosa was honored with the iHeartRadio Corazón Latino Award presented by State Farm in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to Latin music. With a career spanning more than four decades, Santa Rosa has become one of the most influential and beloved figures in salsa. From his early work with Puerto Rican orchestras to his breakout success as a solo artist, Santa Rosa has consistently pushed the boundaries of salsa, earning numerous awards including Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards. His timeless hits such as “Conciencia,” “Que Manera de Quererte,” “Perdoname,” “Vivir Sin Ella,” and “Conteo Regresivo” have resonated across generations. This award celebrates not only his unmatched vocal talent and career trajectory, but also his enduring role in shaping the sound and soul of salsa music around the world.

Leading global Spanish-language streaming service ViX, owned by TelevisaUnivision, streamed the event, bringing the iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina to millions of viewers across the U.S., Latin America, and other Spanish-speaking audiences worldwide. ViX has become a key platform for Hispanic entertainment and culture. iHeartMedia’s Spanish Contemporary Hits, Tropical, Regional Mexican, Tejano and Spanish Oldies radio stations also broadcasted the event live in markets across the country and on the iHeartRadio app. Additionally, the iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina was broadcast across iHeartRadio digital stations including Beso, El Patron, Salsa Bembe, Rumba, Reggaeton Vieja Escuela, La Preciosa, Tejano Radio, La Mezcla Fuego con Dj Xtreme, Latino Top 20, Tropical Top 20 and Regional Mexican Top 20.

Highlights from the 2025 iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina include:

  • Lenier opened up the 2025 iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina with an electric performance, getting the Miami crowd hyped with songs like “Papita Frita.”
  • Chyno y Nacho excited the Kaseya Center crowd with a set of some of their biggest hits, including “Me Voy Enamorando” and “Tú Me Quemas.”
  • Danny Ocean transformed the stage into a tropical paradise, backdropped by serene scenes of beaches framed by rainforests and sunsets over the gently waving water as he performed hits like “Valare,” “Corazón” and “Me Rehuso.”
  • Olga Tañón turned the night into a giant dance party. Dressed in a sparkling silver and black outfit, she and her back-up dancers got the audience moving along as she sang her 1993 song “Presencie Tu Amor” she also performed "Achilipu" and shimmying to "Así Yo Soy," among others.
  • Kapo lit up the stage with an electric performance and pyrotechnics playing his hits “X Ti,” “UWAIE,” “OHNANA” and more.
  • The Colombian Latin pop rock band Morat energized the crowd with their playing and vocal harmonies and even dancing around. The audience jumped along with the band too as they belted along to songs like “Faltas Tú,” “Me Toca A Mí” and “Besos en Guerra.”
  • DJ Nelson got the crowd on their feet as he played remixed hits from artists like Bad Bunny, Daddy Yankee, Nicky Jam and more. He then surprised the audience by bringing out special guest Christian Alicea for a salsa medley and to perform some of his own songs like “Es Un Secreto.”
  • Gilberto Santa Rosa was joined by a full band of trumpets, drums, guitars and more, Gilberto Santa Rosa salsa danced around the stage performing “La Agarro Bajando,” “Conteo Regresivo,” “Conciencia” and more. He was also presented with the iHeartRadio Corazón Latino Award presented by State Farm for his extraordinary contributions to Latin music.
  • Elvis Crespo took the stage by storm as he danced alongside his dancers and expertly worked the crowd performing “Píntame,” “Me Mataron” and more. He also brought out surprise guest Ebenezer Guerra for “Luna Llena” and even hopped into the crowd during his last song, “Suavemente”  giving fans a more personal festival experience.
  • Oscar D'León closed out the show with an incredible performance of “Bravo de verdad,” “Yo Quisiera” and “Esa Mujer.” Backed up by a band and flanked by skilled dancers, D'León showed just why his nickname is The Pharaoh of Salsa.

Proud partners of this year’s event include Audible, Boost Mobile, Celsius Energy Drinks, Goya Foods and State Farm.

To access photos from the event please visit:

Please credit according to photo names, example: Adrianna Casiano for iHeartRadio

Password: iHRFL_2025!

Performaces: https://iheartradio.photoshelter.com/galleries/C0000LTyHL74B9Lc/G0000jWXoEPPMz9Y/Best-of-2025-iHeartRadio-Fiesta-Latina 

Red Carpet: https://iheartradio.photoshelter.com/galleries/C0000iEAN9brwyXw/G0000R7RrG8H2UZI/Press-Room 

To access b-roll from this event please visit:

iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina: HERE

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iHeartPodcasts Injects Hilarity and Humanity into Medical Conversations in New Original Series “Health Stuff”   

WHAT: iHeartPodcasts, the no. 1 podcast publisher according to Podtrac, today announced “Health Stuff,” a new original podcast that will include best-in class medical expertise delivered with elements of comedy and humanity. 

Each week, Wali and Kondabolu will demystify the complicated, separate evidence-based cures from flashy trends, and keep listeners informed on the latest research on health-related topics including sleep apnea, obesity, diabetes, maternal health and more. Sometimes listeners will hear from a health expert; other times, hosts break down the latest health headlines into digestible conversations. Either way, listeners can always count on “Health Stuff” for real, uninhibited, thoroughly fact-checked health talk of the highest caliber.

“Health Stuff” is produced by iHeartPodcasts and joins their flagship family of “Stuff” shows, which includes the popular “Stuff You Should Know,” “Tech Stuff” and “Stuff You Missed in History Class” among others, expanding the brand into the world of science.

WHO: Dr. Priyanka Wali is a board-certified physician in Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine whose work bridges science, compassion, and comedy. Dr. Wali integrates both traditional and non-traditional healing practices to optimize wellbeing for individuals and groups. Her clinical approach is informed by advanced training in Compassionate Inquiry with Dr. Gabor Maté, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy through Polaris Insight Center, and psychedelic research facilitation at the University of California, San Francisco, where she contributed to studies involving psilocybin assisted therapy.  

A Kashmiri-Pandit American and neurodivergent creative, Dr. Wali is passionate about decolonizing healthcare and exploring the healing power of play, performance, and connection. Named by Refinery29 as one of “50 Female Stand-Up Comedians You Need To Know,” her comedic work has been featured on The Today Show, Women’s Health Magazine, Business Insider, Uproxx, Cosmopolitan, India Currents Magazine, and Healthline. She previously co-hosted the podcast “HypochondriActor” with Sean Hayes, bringing humor and humanity to conversations about health. As co-host of iHeartPodcasts’ “Health Stuff,” Dr. Wali continues her mission to make medicine more human, more honest, and occasionally, more hilarious.  

Hari Kondabolu is a comedian and writer who has been described by The New York Times as “one of the most exciting political comics in stand-up today.” He has recorded several hours of comedy including "Vacation Baby" on Hulu and his Netflix special "Warn Your Relatives." He is a regular panelist on “Wait, Wait, Don't Tell Me,” and was previously the cohost of the podcast “Politically Reactive” with his friend W. Kamau Bell.  Most recently, Hari hosted the Netflix food competition show "Snack vs Chef."  

WHERE + WHEN: New episodes will be available on Wednesdays. “Health Stuff” will be available on the iHeartRadio App and everywhere podcasts are heard.  

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Actress Ego Nwodim Brings Award-Winning Series “Thanks Dad” To iHeartMedia and Will Ferrell’s Big Money Players Podcast Network

On “Thanks Dad,” Nwodim invites guests for funny and heartfelt conversations about growing up and lessons learned from the people who shape us

Launching October 28, season two of the hit show will feature special guests including Heidi Gardner, Tamron Hall, Miguel and more

Listen to the trailer now HERE

NEW YORK – October 24, 2025 – iHeartMedia and Will Ferrell’s Big Money Players Network (BMP) today announced actress and producer Ego Nwodim’s award-winning podcast “Thanks Dad” will join BMP bringing her signature mix of humor, heart and candid conversation to the platform. Season two will launch on Tuesday, October 28 and fans can listen to the new “Thanks Dad” trailer now, HERE.

In each episode, host Ego Nwodim will invite a special guest to dive into personal stories, family dynamics and identity. Season one featured A-list guests including Andy Cohen, Randall Park, Kyle Mooney and Bill Burr, and received a 2025 Ambie Award for Best Interview Podcast.

“I’m so thrilled to be partnering with iHeartPodcasts, Will Ferrell and Big Money Players for season two of ‘Thanks Dad,’” said Nwodim. “This season, I’m speaking with a broader range of guests, while staying true to the heart of the podcast—to connect, inspire and bring some joy.”

The upcoming season features standout guests including Tamron Hall and Miguel, promising fresh perspectives and meaningful dialogue. In the premiere episode of season two, Nwodim will sit down with Heidi Gardner to discuss her mom's wacky ex-boyfriends, their love of Jack Black and becoming best friends at Saturday Night Live.

"Thanks Dad with Ego Nwodim" will feature new weekly episodes on Tuesdays, available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard. Video episodes of the podcast will also be available on the show’s YouTube Channel.

In addition to “Thanks Dad,” Nwodim is making her Off-Broadway debut this fall with a one-woman comedy show at Lincoln Center as part of “The Comedy Series.” During her seven-year tenure on “Saturday Night Live,” Ego created several viral moments including the iconic "Miss Eggy" and "Lisa from Temecula," establishing herself as a groundbreaking voice in comedy and earning NAACP nominations in both 2024 and 2025 for her work on the show. She recently wrapped production on Matt Spicer's “Little Brother,” the upcoming Netflix comedy alongside John Cena and Eric Andre. 

Nwodim was also recently recognized by Variety as part of their New York Women's Impact Report for her trailblazing work across comedy, television and media. 

Founded by Will Ferrell and iHeartMedia, Big Money Players Network (BMP) is the premiere destination for comedy podcasts and home to top comedic talent across a variety of formats and styles. BMP features hits like “The Ron Burgundy Podcast,” “Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang,” “My Momma Told Me,” "Straightiolab with George Civeris and Sam Taggart ,” “Bombing with Eric Andre,” “MESS with Sydnee Washington and Marie Faustin” and more. All BMP podcasts are executive produced by Will Ferrell and iHeartMedia and are distributed by iHeartPodcasts. 

Editor’s Note:

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"Norah Jones is Playing Along" Joins iHeartPodcasts with a Brand-New Second Season

The 10-Time GRAMMY Award Winner Welcomes Meaningful Conversations and Musical Collaborations with Her Favorite Artists

Listen Now to “Norah Jones is Playing Along,” HERE

 

WHAT:  Musician Norah Jones, known around the world for her iconic voice, and iHeartPodcasts, the No. 1 podcast publisher according to Podtrac, are thrilled to announce hit podcast “Norah Jones is Playing Along” has joined the iHeartPodcasts network for its second season.   

Building on the success of its first season, the 10-time GRAMMY Award-winning singer, songwriter, and pianist once again invites some of her favorite musicians to join her for spontaneous musical collaborations and candid, free-flowing conversation. Each episode offers an intimate look inside the minds of today’s most creative artists as Norah chats about life, music, and the moments that inspire them—all while sharing duo performances of her guests’ songs, fan-favorite tracks from her own catalog, covers, and even songs written on the spot.

Season Two launches with a special double-episode premiere featuring Black Pumas—Eric Burton and Adrian Quesada—who share how they first came together, the instant chemistry that defined their collaboration, and how they’ve evolved as a band, before joining Norah for inspired live performances. In the companion episode, Margo Price sits down with Norah to talk about her artistic journey, creative influences, and the expanding landscape of country music today. The two blend their voices on new songs from Margo and a special cover performance.

“The most surprising and joyful things happen when music is shared in the moment — human to human, voice to voice, instrument to instrument,” said Jones.  “This podcast is about making those connections in a way that’s intimate, spontaneous, and so much fun. I get to stretch my wings, and I always learn something from my guests — no matter how different our musical backgrounds are, whether they’re just starting out or they’ve been my heroes for years. It’s just people hanging out and playing tunes together in a room. Simple, yet magic!”

Listen to “Norah Jones is Playing Along” now, HERE.

WHO:  Norah Jones first emerged on the world stage with the 2002 release of Come Away With Me, her self-described “moody little record” that introduced a singular new voice and grew into a global phenomenon, sweeping the 2003 GRAMMY Awards including Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best New Artist. Since then, Jones has become a ten-time GRAMMY-winner, sold more than 52 million albums, and her songs have been streamed ten billion times worldwide. She has released a series of critically acclaimed and commercially successful solo albums—Feels Like Home (2004), Not Too Late (2007), The Fall (2009), Little Broken Hearts (2012), Day Breaks (2016), Pick Me Up Off The Floor (2020), the live album ‘Til We Meet Again (2021), her holiday album I Dream Of Christmas (2021), and the GRAMMY Award winning Visions (2024)—as well as albums with her collective bands The Little Willies, El Madmo, and Puss N Boots featuring Sasha Dobson and Catherine Popper. The 2010 compilation …Featuring Norah Jones showcased her incredible versatility by collecting her collaborations with artists as diverse as Willie Nelson, Foo Fighters, Outkast, and Herbie Hancock. In 2022, Jones launched her podcast “Norah Jones Is Playing Along” which features candid conversations and impromptu musical collaborations with some of her favorite musicians.  Most recently she released a single, her first time ever collaboration with John Legend, called “Summertime Blue.”

WHEN:  Listen to Season Two of “Norah Jones is Playing Along” beginning today, October 21, 2025. New episodes available weekly on Tuesdays with previous episodes available to binge now.

WHERE: “Norah Jones is Playing Along” is distributed by iHeartPodcasts and available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard.

COVER ART: Download the show’s high-res cover art, HERE.

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Political Commentator Bakari Sellers to Join Next Era of iHeartMedia and Reasoned Choice Media’s “Native Land Pod” 

CNN Correspondent Bakari Sellers ushers in the 100th episode and new era of “Native Land Pod” with Angela Rye, Tiffany Cross, and Andrew Gillum, including launching Substack

NEW YORK — October 6, 2025 — Today, iHeartMedia and Reasoned Choice Media’s “Native Land Pod” announced that renowned CNN political commentator, lawyer, and podcast host Bakari Sellers is joining as a new host to the award-winning show. Sellers, widely considered a rising star in the Democratic Party, made history when he defeated a 26-year incumbent State

Representative to become the youngest South Carolina state legislature member and the youngest African American elected official in the nation at 22 years old. Now, he will bring sharp political commentary to “Native Land Pod” starting with the podcast's 100th episode premiering on Thursday, October 8, 2025. 

“At a time when fundamental American principles like free speech are under attack, platforms like 'Native Land Pod' are essential for truthtelling and fueling the discourse our democracy needs,” said Sellers. “It’s an honor to join Angela, Tiffany, and Andrew to break down the consequential issues shaping our future and reach our people with honesty and clarity.” 

Since debuting as the #1 political podcast in 2024, “Native Land Pod” continues to garner nearly half a million monthly streams. As the 2028 presidential elections near and new media platforms reshape the information ecosystem, “Native Land Pod” is cementing itself as the go-to home for fearless political and cultural commentary. Host Tiffany Cross said, “We are elated to welcome Bakari to ‘Native Land Pod.’ As one of the most respected voices in the political realm, having him join ‘Native Land Pod’ will give our audience a chance to see his insights in more nuanced discussions that don't just center on politics but also on issues relevant to culture.”

The show's next era includes the launch of a Substack (@NativeLandPod) to feature sharp content on news, culture, and politics from hosts and guest correspondents. “Meeting people where they are has never been more critical,” said host Angela Rye. “In today’s political climate, our people are on the front lines. As we continue to work diligently to inform our audience on how to meet the moment, the Native Land Pod Substack will elevate new voices, diverse perspectives, and share calls to action.”

“Native Land Pod” has mastered political coverage through a culturally relevant lens to inform audiences who are most impacted and suffer the greatest harm. The show is doubling down on this formula that’s driven its success, featuring upcoming interviews with political powerhouse Stacey Abrams and cultural icons Lenard “Charlamagne Tha God” McKelvey, B Simone, and Pretty Vee. “As storytellers, the hosts see it as their responsibility to break down narratives for the audience in an accessible way that centers authentic voices,” said host Andrew Gillum. “With compelling interviews, new platforms, and Bakari providing a conscious, informed, and timely perspective at our table, we are creating an even more complete and well-rounded conversation for our listeners.”

Native Land Pod” is distributed by iHeartPodcasts and available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard.

Editor’s Note:
Include the podcast’s audio player directly into your article or website using the below embed code.

<iframe allow="autoplay" width="100%" height="300" src="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-native-land-pod-137190860/?embed=true" frameborder="0"></iframe>

Show Page: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-native-land-pod-137190860/

Host Photos: HERE

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About Native Land Pod

On Native Land Pod, Angela Rye, Tiffany Cross, Andrew Gillum, and now, Bakari Sellers guide us through the political landscape, wielding insights and unapologetic analysis, unraveling the threads that connect Black Americans and marginalized communities to a place they courageously call home. This isn't just news analysis; it's a movement, a conversation, and a testament to the power of those who dare to rebuild and redefine the meaning of home. Talk to us: Tiffany Cross @tiffanydcross, Angela Rye @angelarye, Andrew Gillum @andrewgillum, Bakari Sellers @bakarisellers, Native Land Pod @nativelandpod.

About Reasoned Choice Media

Reasoned Choice Media was founded by Lenard “Charlamagne tha God” McKelvey, Angela Rye, and Chris Morrow. Native Land Pod is the flagship show for the political podcast network. The network provides a platform for diverse voices, perspectives, and shows including Spolitics with Jemele Hill, Off the Cupp with S.E. Cupp, and Now You Know with Knowa De Baraso.

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iHeartMedia Hosts “iHeartRadio Album Preview Featuring Bon Jovi’s Forever (Legendary Edition)” Including Never Before Heard Music From Their Upcoming Album, Airing Exclusively on iHeartRadio Stations on October 23

Jon Bon Jovi will share never before heard songs and stories with fans from the upcoming album, Forever (Legendary Edition), ahead of the album's official release on October 24

The event will broadcast exclusively on iHeartRadio Hot AC, Classic Hits, Variety, 80s and Classic Rock stations on October 23

WHAT: iHeartMedia today announced they will host the “iHeartRadio Album Preview Featuring Bon Jovi’s Forever (Legendary Edition)” taking place on October 23 at 7 p.m. local time. Jon Bon Jovi will share never before heard songs and stories with fans from the band’s upcoming album, FOREVER (LEGENDARY EDITION) ahead of the album's official release on October 24. Taped at the iHeartRadio Los Angeles Theater and hosted by iHeartRadio personality Valentine, the broadcast will air exclusively on iHeartRadio Hot AC, Classic Hits, Variety, 80s and Classic Rock stations at 7 p.m. local time and on Today’s Mix digital station on the iHeartRadio app at 7 p.m. ET/ 4 p.m. PT on October 23.

WHO: Bon Jovi, the GRAMMY Award®-winning, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame band and one of history’s most iconic acts, is releasing their new 14-track collaboration album FOREVER (LEGENDARY EDITION) via Island Records on October 24. The album includes collaborations from Bruce Springsteen, Lainey Wilson, Jelly Roll, Jason Isbell, Carin Leon, Joe Elliott, Robbie Williams, Avril Lavigne, Marcus King and more.

WHEN: The broadcast will air on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 7 p.m. local time and on Today’s Mix digital station at 7 p.m. ET/ 4 p.m. PT.

WHERE:  “iHeartRadio Album Preview Featuring Bon Jovi’s Forever (Legendary Edition)” will air across iHeartRadio Hot AC, Classic Hits, Variety, 80s and Classic Rock stations and on Today’s Mix digital station on the iHeartRadio app.

QUOTE: Jon Bon Jovi shares the inspiration behind FOREVER (LEGENDARY EDITION): “I thought in this day and age of people doing these features, if I could call a bunch of our friends and under the guise of the title of The Beatles song ‘With A Little Help From My Friends’ and ask folks to sing on these songs- we would write something new to accompany it, you know, just show that my voice is healed and then get friends to come and reintroduce a great album, and that was the plan. And so we called old friends, new friends, country, rock, international, men, women. So it’s a diverse record, you know, a lot of different kinds of talent.”

Video clip HERE

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iHeartMedia Releases Third in a Series of Consumer Studies, Revealing America’s Deepening Need for Human Connection in an AI-Driven World

The “Human” Consumer Study shows that 82 percent of consumers worry about AI’s societal impact, and 9 in 10 believe it’s important to know the media they consume is created by a real person 

Report released to marketers at iHeartMedia’s AudioCon 2025 in NYC

NEW YORK – October 15, 2025 – iHeartMedia, the leading audio company in America and the No. 1 podcast publisher globally according to Podtrac, today released its third annual study, “AudioCon 3.0: The Human Consumer.” Over the past three years this acclaimed series of consumer studies – from the New American Consumer with Malcolm Gladwell to America’s Ignored Consumer – has given marketers a deeper understanding of today's evolving audiences. Today’s “Human” Consumer study, which brings together research across age groups and demographics, demonstrates the impact that media and technology are having on consumers, shaping their beliefs and behavior. The study also provides insights for marketers on how to curate advertising strategies that authentically connect with audiences and build trust in an increasingly fragmented and technology driven world.

The new research, fielded through Critical Mass Media for iHeartMedia, found that 82 percent of respondents worry about AI’s societal impact, and 9 in 10 believe it’s important to know the media they consume is created by a real person. Most respondents long to feel “human” again through deep, meaningful relationships, but simultaneously feel overwhelmed by their phones, hindering the ability to pursue these connections. These conflicting sentiments are driving new consumer behavior.

“The data shows us that consumers are emotionally driven, digitally fatigued and yearning for authenticity in an increasingly algorithmic world,” said Lainie Fertick, President of Insights for iHeartMedia. “This is especially critical with rapid technology advancements and the growing use of AI in the media industry. For marketers, it creates both hurdles and unique opportunities to connect with audiences in this new environment.”

The research also highlighted additional ways technology is impacting key consumer beliefs and behaviors, with other key findings from the report including:

  • Children are struggling to be independent in a tech-forward era: 3 out of 4 children simply want to hang out together in person, but parents are increasingly cautious at the expense of their kids’ independence: 61 percent of children ages 8 to 12 have never made their own plans with a friend, 45 percent have never walked even one aisle away from their parents in a store and 71 percent have never used a sharp knife. Online is increasingly the only way children can find their own independence – 7 in 10 children stay up past bedtime on a tablet, phone, or game console, 1 in 3 have chatted with an AI bot, and 1 in 4 have messaged with a stranger online.
  • Consumers are all online, but they aren’t happy to be there: Even though 92 percent of consumers use social media, 2/3 say social media makes them feel worse and more disconnected than before. 50 percent of consumers believe that social media pushes people apart and that the divide has gotten worse over the last decade, with 86 percent saying they argue online/on social media in ways they would never argue in-person. Lower income consumers are feeling even more frustrated. 
  • Trust in online information is at an all-time low: In the age of algorithms, 2/3 of consumers know that these formulas shape their views with 82 percent reporting that the media they see only reflects what they already believe.
  • Algorithms rule our lives, and consumers know it: An overwhelming 86 percent of consumers feel they’re seeing more ads in feeds, often at the expense of posts from friends and family, and higher-income households in particular are most concerned that family is being replaced by ads. 
  • Technology is taking its toll on today’s consumer: 42 percent of consumers sometimes wish they had a “dumbphone” and interest in flip phones has skyrocketed 15,000 percent year-over-year. High income consumers, in particular, have grown weary of smartphones the fastest.
  • Media is dividing us on current events, but all agree that there’s “something going on with those Epstein files:” The last unifying news event occurred 24 years ago on 9/11, and notable cultural moments that have occurred in the last five years show a widening divide:
    • The government’s COVID-19 response showed a close split, with 57 percent believing that national intervention was a necessary step for public safety and 43 percent believing that the government overreached. 
    • Eight years after #MeToo, gender still plays the largest role in perception of the movement as either a cultural awakening or a societal overreaction, which showed a 56 percent to 44 percent split respectively. 
    • Recent ICE raids also have a strong split – 43 percent of all consumers believe raids are a necessary step for public safety, while 57 percent view them as an example of government overreach. The biggest factor, over race and culture, is geographical location, with those along the Southern border most likely to support ICE.
    • The only observed event that Americans are mostly unified on is believing that the Epstein files are a cover-up, with 78 percent agreeing and only 22 percent believing that there’s nothing in the files.
  • Though 97 percent of consumers know what AI is, with 70 percent actually using AI, distrust remains high: Americans believe AI is “helpful” and “time-saving,” but 3/4 don’t want it anywhere near their media and entertainment and 2/3 even believe that AI could one day go to war with humans. 2/3 of consumers fear job loss due to AI, with Gen Z and lower-income consumers most worried. 
  • In a complicated world, robots cannot replace human connection: The proximity of other humans makes 86 percent of people feel safer, and 9 in 10 say this trust cannot be replicated by AI. 95 percent of consumers say it feels good to know someone cares, and that technology will never touch the deep, meaningful relationships that 92 percent of people have. 

This study offers an opportunity for marketers to better align with the evolving expectations of consumers. Because of the algorithmic feed consumers are immersed in, giving them escape hatches of human-made content is essential. By thoughtfully balancing precision targeting with live, broad-reach media experiences, brands can foster shared experiences that connect rather than divide. Integrating trusted, conversational channels alongside targeted media buys – and amplifying authentic, human-led content – can help campaigns resonate more deeply and drive meaningful engagement across audiences. In today’s dynamic landscape, empathy and “human intentionality” are key to building stronger, more unified connections.

“It’s important for us to remember, as marketers, that we’re in a very delicate position within a turbulent time, both in America and around the world,” said Bob Pittman, Chairman and CEO of iHeartMedia. “In a world of digital saturation and AI acceleration, this study reveals that consumers are not just looking for convenience—they’re searching for meaning. Sports, Radio, live media and human-led storytelling offer a rare sanctuary of trust, empathy and shared experience.  Above all, we must continue listening to Americans more closely than ever before and focus on ways to foster real connection and amplify our collective humanity.”

The findings were presented by Lisa Coffey, Chief Business Officer and Lainie Fertick, President of Insights at iHeartMedia’s AudioCon 2025 today, October 15 at 5 p.m. in New York City at iHeartMedia’s HQ.

The “Human” Consumer Methodology:

This poll was conducted by Critical Mass Media between August 8 and August 13, 2025 among a national sample of 2,007 U.S. adults. The interviews were conducted online and the data was weighted to approximate a target sample of adults based on gender, age, race and region. Results from the full survey have a margin of error of +/-2 percentage points.

8–12-Year-Old Children Methodology:

The Harris Poll surveyed 522 kids between the ages of 8 and 12 in the United States in March 2025 to ask about their usage of technology, assuring them that their individual answers would remain private.

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