iHeartMedia

An immersive experience outside of T-Mobile Arena with rooms inspired by artists at this year’s festival main stage including BTS, Cardi B, Kenny Chesney and Zara Larsson 

Featuring a pre-show performance by Stella Lefty and post-show performance by Major Lazer on Saturday, Sept. 19 at iHeartRadio House of Music Powered by Hyundai

New York, N.Y. – August 27, 2026– iHeartMedia today announced the return of the House of Music presented by Hyundai, a mixed-reality immersive experience inspired by the artists performing at the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Festival presented by Capital One including BTS, Cardi B, Kenny Chesney and Zara Larsson. Fans are invited to make themselves at home as they explore interactive rooms, immersing themselves in the lives, music and passions of their favorite artists and brands. The experience is free and open to the public on September 18 and 19 outside T-Mobile Arena from 4 p.m. - 1 a.m. PT. Additionally, before the festival main stage show begins on Saturday, September 19, Stella Lefty takes the House of Music stage for a pre-show performance and Major Lazer will close out the night on Saturday with a post-show performance at the iHeartRadio House of Music Powered by Hyundai.

Guests can explore rooms inspired by artists including:

• The BTS room is inspired by their hit “SWIM,” featured on their latest album, ARIRANG. The room features an interactive “pool,” where visitors can play and dive right into the world of “SWIM.”
• Fans are invited to step into Cardi B’s world inspired by her Little Miss Drama Tour. Showcasing iconic fashion moments and creative elements from her live performances, the activation invites fans into Cardi B’s mind, exploring her vision, artistry and dynamic energy.
• In Kenny Chesney’s room fans can explore the essence of Silver Sands Marina, which inspired his new music video and is the title track of his upcoming album. Set in a local lake-inspired environment, guests can create a personalized postcard and enter for a chance to see Kenny at a stadium show next summer. 

• Inspired by Zara Larsson’s Midnight Sun and Midnight Sun: Girls Trip, her room transports fans into a vibrant Swedish summer-inspired setting. Through playful visuals, curated fashion moments and interactive elements, fans can explore Zara’s creativity and style and stop by the Girls Trip Gas Station to collect a special takeaway.

  Guests will get the chance to experience their favorite brands in new ways and walk away with prizes and limited-edition swag. Brands activating at House of Music include presenting partner Hyundai, Audible, Burlington, Capital One, KHLOE KARDASHIAN FRAGRANCES, LG, M&M's ® and Sensodyne Clinical White, with more to be announced.

“Our iHeartRadio House of Music offers a one-of-a-kind immersive experience that brings fans closer to their favorite artists performing at the festival,” said Tom Poleman, Chief Programming Officer for iHeartMedia, and John Sykes, President of Entertainment Enterprises for iHeartMedia. “Inspired by the artists themselves, these exclusive experiences create deeper connections between fans and the music they love.”

For more details about the iHeartRadio House of Music Presented by Hyundai visit iHeartRadio.com/houseofmusic.

This year, the epic two-day lineup for the iHeartRadio Music Festival presented by Capital One, hosted by Ryan Seacrest, will feature performances by BTS, Benson Boone, Cardi B, Ciara, Goo Goo Dolls, Kenny Chesney, Lainey Wilson, LE SSERAFIM, Major Lazer, Muse, Snoop Dogg, The Smashing Pumpkins, Weezer, Zara Larsson and a special performance by Stella Lefty. 

Tickets for the iHeartRadio Music Festival presented by Capital One are available now at AXS.com.

Each night, the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Festival presented by Capital One will broadcast live for fans via iHeartMedia radio stations throughout the country across more than 150 markets. Disney+ and Hulu will livestream all of the performances, giving subscribers exclusive front-row access from the comfort of their homes. 

Proud partners of this year’s event include presenting partner Capital One, Audible, Burlington, Hyundai, KHLOE KARDASHIAN FRAGRANCES, LG, M&M's ®, the OREO brand, Sensodyne Clinical White and Une Femme Wines with more to be announced.

The iHeartRadio Music Festival is executive produced by John Sykes, Tom Poleman and Bart Peters from iHeartMedia and Diversified Production Services (DPS). iHeartMedia will also executive produce the livestream.

For more details about the iHeartRadio Music Festival visit iHeartRadio.com/festival.

Artists and/or event are subject to change or cancellation without notice.

In the new weekly podcast premiering September 1, October and Tony Gonzalez take listeners behind closed doors as they bring on other couples in the public eye for honest conversations on navigating real-life relationship struggles, laughing through the chaos, and making love last

NEW YORK — August 25, 2026 — My Cultura, iHeartMedia’s podcast network dedicated to elevating Latino voices and stories, and SMAC Productions today announced “No Safe Words with October and Tony Gonzalez,” a new weekly podcast premiering September 1 that will peel back the realities of long-term relationships through honest, unfiltered conversations with high-profile and celebrity couples. Fans can hear the official audio trailer now here.

Married for more than 20 years, television host, and TV personality October Gonzalez and her husband, Pro Football Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez, know firsthand that a great relationship isn't born – it's built. From managing a dynamic blended family to balancing life in the media, they bring decades of real-world experience to "No Safe Words." Together with their guests, Tony and October deliver an unfiltered look at modern marriage, giving listeners a real look into the messy and beautiful work of staying connected.

“Relationships aren’t something you just get lucky with; they’re actively built through constant hard work every single day with your partner, across all areas,” said Tony and October Gonzalez. “In our time together, we’ve seen it all—big life transitions, having kids and combining families, weathering media attention, and more. A lot of couples don’t talk about these things because they’re afraid, but we’ve learned that being completely honest with each other actually makes things so much easier. We don’t have all the answers, though, and we’re still learning new things about communication every day. We’re looking forward to learning right alongside our listeners about different ways we can communicate deeper and grow together no matter what stage we’re at.”

Part memoir, part comedy and part relationship revolution, "No Safe Words" will create space for authentic conversations about love, conflict, communication, parenting and evolving together through life's different seasons. 

“October and Tony are legends in their own worlds, and the relationship they’ve built resonates because it’s rooted in honesty, growth and authenticity,” said Leo Gomez, Head of iHeartMedia’s My Cultura Podcast Network. “Bringing them together to share personal stories and candid conversations about love, marriage and family creates something truly rare—and potentially as iconic as the two of them. With ‘No Safe Words,’ listeners will get access to a side of their lives that is seldom shared publicly. We’re proud to welcome them to My Cultura and continue expanding our slate with voices that reflect the depth, influence and diversity of our community.”

iHeartMedia’s My Cultura Podcast Network launched May 2021 in collaboration with Enrique Santos, iHeartMedia’s top-rated on-air personality and President and Chief Creative Officer of iHeartLatino, and has since welcomed actor, producer, entrepreneur and activist Wilmer Valderrama along with Eva Longoria and her studio Hyphenate Media Group as stakeholders. Since launch, the network has seen steady listener growth and has become home to more than 60 podcasts including hit series “Chiquis and Chill,” “The Moment with Jorge Ramos and Paola Ramos,” “Bleep! with Ana Navarro,” “Against All Odds with Yris Palmer,” “More Better with Stephanie & Melissa,” “Princess of South Beach,'' “Sacred Scandal,” “Radio Ambulante,” “Magical Rewind,” “Agushto Papá,” “Enrique Santos Podcast,” “Suite 305 with Lele Pons,” “Dos Amigos with Wilmer Valderrama,” “Latino USA,” and many more. All My Cultura shows are distributed by iHeartPodcasts. Listeners can find the full catalog of My Cultura podcasts here.

The first episode of “No Safe Words” will premiere September 1, with new episodes released weekly on Tuesdays. Listen on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard. 

About SMAC Productions

SMAC Productions is the premium content division of SMAC Entertainment, founded by Constance Schwartz-Morini and Michael Strahan, producing scripted and non-scripted television, film, audio and branded content for a wide range of networks and distributors, including HBO, Prime Video, Showtime, BET, ABC, ESPN, E!, NBCUniversal, DIRECTV, NFL Network, Nickelodeon, Roku, Audible, VICE and Turner. Recent credits include two Sports Emmy-nominated docuseries for Prime Video, Evolution of the Black Quarterback and the third season of Deion Sanders’ Coach Prime, the critically acclaimed documentary BS High (HBO Max), The Coach Vick Experience (BET), The Future Is Flag (Prime Video), It’s In the Game: Madden NFL (Prime Video), Black Comedy in America (VICE), and the feature film The Underdoggs (MGM). Other credits include $100,000 Pyramid (ABC), More Than an Athlete (ESPN), The Cost of Winning (HBO), Snoop Dogg’s Father Hood (E!), Play it Forward (Showtime), The Cupcake Guys (Roku), and Snoop Dogg Presents The Joker’s Wild (TNT). Upcoming projects include a three-part docuseries on Deion Sanders (Netflix); a new podcast network, The Intersection, in partnership with AMP Media; the highly anticipated movie Madden (Prime Video/MGM), starring Nicolas Cage, Christian Bale, and Shane Gillis; and a content slate with Kevin Durant and Rich Kleiman’s Boardroom. For more information, visit www.smac-ent.com. 

“iHeartRadio's She Is The Voice with Special Guest Olivia Rodrigo,” a one-hour program with Olivia as guest host, airing music from artists performing at Daisy Chain Fields Festival broadcasting iHeartRadio ALT stations on Friday, August 28

“iHeartRadio Presents: Olivia Rodrigo: Songs from Daisy Chain Fields,” featuring exclusive live performances from her new album you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love broadcasting on iHeartRadio CHR and Hot AC stations August 31

NEW YORK- August 25, 2026- iHeartRadio is hosting two exclusive national radio specials with Olivia Rodrigo that features music and performances from Daisy Chain Fields, Olivia special guest hosting, exclusive interviews and live performances from her new album, you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love, available now via Geffen Records.

On Friday, August 28 at 9 p.m. ET iHeartRadio will broadcast “iHeartRadio's She Is The Voice with Special Guest Olivia Rodrigo,” a special nationwide edition of the weekly specialty show that typically airs on iHeartRadio Los Angeles’ ALT 98.7, will air on iHeartRadio ALT stations nationwide. Hosted by Lisa Worden, Program Director for ALT 98.7 and Senior Vice President of Rock and Alternative for iHeartMedia, the one-hour special will feature Olivia Rodrigo as guest host and will spotlight artists performing at Daisy Chain Fields, celebrating women shaping music today. iHeartRadio's She Is The Voice with Special Guest Olivia Rodrigo will also be available on iHeartRadio digital stations Alt Radio and She Rocks Radio and replay nightly at 7 p.m. ET on She Rocks Radio from August 28 through September 4.

On Monday, August 31 at 7 p.m. local time iHeartRadio will broadcast “iHeartRadio Presents: Olivia Rodrigo: Songs from Daisy Chain Fields,” featuring exclusive live performances from her new album you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love. The exclusive 30-minute special with Olivia Rodrigo features live performances recorded during her Daisy Chain Fields festival set, including her single "drop dead." The special will air on CHR and Hot AC stations on August 31 at 7 p.m. local time and on iHeartRadio’s digital station Hit Nation at 7 p.m. ET. 

Live performances from Daisy Chain Fields are furnished by Geffen Records.

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Tickets available now at AXS.com

Disney+ and Hulu to serve as the Official Streaming Destination of the Festival

WHAT: iHeartMedia announced today additions to the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Festival Presented by Capital One lineup including Ciara, The Smashing Pumpkins and a special performance by Stella Lefty, taking place on Friday, Sept. 18 and Saturday, Sept. 19 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. 

WHO:This year, the epic two-day lineup for the iHeartRadio Music Festival presented by Capital One will feature performances by BTS, Benson Boone, Cardi B, Ciara, Goo Goo Dolls, Kenny Chesney, Lainey Wilson, LE SSERAFIM, Major Lazer, Muse, Snoop Dogg, The Smashing Pumpkins, Weezer, Zara Larsson and a special performance by Stella Lefty. Hosted by Ryan Seacrest, the iHeartRadio Music Festival will once again include one-of-a-kind collaborations and surprise performances.

WHEN: Friday, September 18 and Saturday, September 19 

WHERE: T-Mobile Arena (3780 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109)

MORE: Tickets are available now at AXS.com.

Each night, the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Festival presented by Capital One will broadcast live for fans via iHeartMedia radio stations throughout the country across more than 150 markets. Disney+ and Hulu will livestream all of the performances, giving subscribers exclusive front-row access from the comfort of their homes. 

Proud partners of this year’s event include presenting partner Capital One, Audible, Burlington, Hyundai, KHLOE KARDASHIAN FRAGRANCES, M&M Mars, the OREO brand, Sensodyne Clinical White, Une Femme Wines with more to be announced. 

The iHeartRadio Music Festival is executive produced by John Sykes, Tom Poleman and Bart Peters from iHeartMedia and Diversified Production Services (DPS). iHeartMedia will also executive produce the livestream.

For more details about the iHeartRadio Music Festival visit iHeartRadio.com/festival.

Artists and/or event are subject to change or cancellation without notice.

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The Lifestyle Icon Brings Her Intimate Conversations with the World’s Most Fascinating People to Netflix, Alongside Her Emmy-Nominated Series “Martha Cooks” 

Listen to “The Martha Stewart Podcast” now HERE

NEW YORK – August 24, 2026 – Martha Stewart and iHeartPodcasts, the No. 1 podcast publisher globally according to Podtrac, announced today that “The Martha Stewart Podcast” is launching on Netflix as part of iHeartMedia and Netflix’s growing exclusive video podcast partnership, bringing Stewart’s in-depth conversations with notable guests from all walks of life to the streaming service beginning Wednesday, August 26.

Fans will now have a new way to experience “The Martha Stewart Podcast,” with full video episodes available to watch on Netflix. The series will also continue as an audio podcast distributed by iHeartPodcasts and available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard. Stewart’s Emmy-nominated series “Martha Cooks” is also launching on Netflix, with episodes available beginning Tuesday, August 25.

“I’m delighted to bring my podcast to Netflix, and with that, introduce the medium of video to the series,” said Martha Stewart. “Netflix is the perfect partner to share and amplify the thoughtful and informative conversations the show is known for with an even greater audience.” 

Each week on “The Martha Stewart Podcast,” Stewart sits down with a unique mix of captivating guests who inspire and intrigue her, including business icons, entrepreneurs, artisans, old friends and new. Through intimate conversations, Stewart explores their lives, careers, ideas and experiences, uncovering personal stories and insights while giving audiences the opportunity to learn something new with every episode.

“The Martha Stewart Podcast” will launch on Netflix with an episode featuring entrepreneur, investor and Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian. Stewart and Ohanian sit down for a wide-ranging conversation about love, ambition, family, pets, investing and life with his wife, Serena Williams. Upcoming episodes will feature bestselling author Harlan Coben and music producer, and Grammy Award-winning producer, artist, actor and New York Times bestselling author benny blanco.

“Martha is one of the most iconic and influential voices in media, with an extraordinary ability to connect with audiences,” said Will Pearson, President of iHeartPodcasts. “We’re thrilled to expand ‘The Martha Stewart Podcast’ to Netflix, giving even more people the opportunity to experience Martha’s signature curiosity, expertise and one-of-a-kind perspective through the candid conversations and insights that have made the podcast so compelling.”

“Martha Cooks,” Stewart’s Emmy-nominated cooking series, will also be available on Netflix beginning August 25. The series brings viewers into Stewart’s kitchen as she shares some of her favorite recipes, techniques and culinary expertise alongside acclaimed chefs, friends and special guests.

Christian Martin, Amy Chiaro and Martha Stewart are Executive Producers, and Heather Kirkland is the Producer of “The Martha Stewart Podcast.”

“The Martha Stewart Podcast” joins a growing slate of iHeartPodcasts available on Netflix as part of iHeartMedia and Netflix’s exclusive video podcast partnership, bringing some of today’s most influential voices and compelling, conversation-driven programming to the streaming service. The agreement includes all new episodes from the participating podcasts, along with select library episodes from each series. All podcasts included in the partnership, including “The Martha Stewart Podcast,” will continue to be available on iHeartRadio and everywhere podcasts are heard. 

Editor’s Note:

Podcast Cover Art: available for download HERE

Podcast Embed Code: (include audio player directly in article)

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About Martha Stewart 

Martha Stewart is the founder of the first multi-channel lifestyle company, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, an entrepreneur, bestselling author of 102 lifestyle books, and Emmy Award-winning television show host. Reaching more than 100 million devoted fans monthly through multi-media platforms and products for the home, sold through Amazon.com and The World of Martha Stewart and an extensive retail network, Martha is the “go-to” authority on the encompassing topic of Living and Celebrating your best life. She and her talented staff provide trusted, timely, and useful information on all aspects of everyday living: cooking, entertaining, gardening, home renovating, collecting, organizing, crafting, healthy living, holidays, weddings, and pet care, across many media formats. 

About Marquee Brands 

Marquee Brands is a globally recognized brand owner, marketer and media company. A leading brand accelerator, Marquee Brands strategically manages a portfolio of renowned consumer brands with global recognition. Established in 2014 by Neuberger Berman, Marquee Brands harnesses and grows the value of its brands by partnering with best-in-class manufacturers, operators, retailers and distributors across multiple channels, geographies and product sectors. Generating over $4.2 billion in annual retail sales, the Marquee Brands portfolio is organized into three distinct verticals: Home & Culinary, Fashion & Lifestyle and Active & Outdoor, and encompasses timeless brands such as Martha Stewart, Emeril Lagasse, Sur La Table, Laura Ashley, America's Test Kitchen, BCBG, Ben Sherman, Bruno Magli, Anti Social Social Club, Totes, Isotoner, Destination Maternity, Motherhood Maternity, A Pea in The Pod, Dakine and Body Glove. For more information visit, www.marqueebrands.com.

About Netflix

Netflix is one of the world’s leading entertainment services offering TV series, films, games and live programming across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time.

The 13-episode investigative series created in partnership with Crowd Network and High Road Entertainment delves into the killing of 24 Iraqi civilians by U.S. Marines

NEW YORK – AUGUST 24, 2026 – iHeartPodcasts, the No. 1 podcast publisher according to Podtrac, and the Oscar-nominated filmmaker Michael Epstein today announced the launch of “Fault Line: Haditha,” a 13-episode investigative podcast and companion documentary series that re-examines one of the most controversial incidents of the Iraq War and the two-decade fight over what happened, who should be held accountable and whether the full truth was ever allowed to emerge. 

On November 19, 2005, 24 Iraqi civilians were killed by U.S. Marines in the city of Haditha. The killings would become the subject of the longest and most expensive criminal investigation in U.S. military history, drawing international scrutiny and raising questions about accountability within the military. 

At the center of “Fault Line: Haditha” is former NCIS Special Agent Michael Maloney, who was assigned to investigate the killings. As Maloney pursued the case, he encountered political pressure, disputed testimony and what he came to believe were efforts by senior officials to undermine the investigation. His pursuit of the case would ultimately come at a significant cost to his career.

Twenty years later, Epstein returns to Haditha to examine what happened and what followed. Produced in collaboration with Crowd Network and High Road Entertainment, the series draws on years of reporting, documentary footage and extensive interviews to reconstruct the killings, the NCIS investigation, the subsequent legal proceedings and the lasting impact on the Marines involved and the Iraqi families whose lives were changed that day.

Each podcast episode will be accompanied by an original film on YouTube featuring extended scenes, archival material and interviews that expand upon the audio investigation. The footage includes interviews with Marines involved in the incident, NCIS investigators who worked the case and the sole surviving Iraqi eyewitness, who lost members of her family in the killings. 

“This is a new kind of storytelling, a serialized investigation you hear on a podcast and then watch on YouTube. This isn't just a video version of the audio. These are two distinct experiences that complement each other,” said Epstein. “As a filmmaker and a journalist, the most exciting thing for me is that there is no gatekeeper. I am able to take my investigation and all the revelations I’ve uncovered directly to a global audience.”

Epstein is an Academy Award-nominated documentary filmmaker and podcast producer whose work has earned two George Foster Peabody Awards, two Primetime Emmy Awards and a Writers Guild of America Award. His films have screened at the Sundance Film Festival, Berlin International Film Festival, Toronto International Film Festival and New York Film Festival. His credits include “The Battle Over Citizen Kane,” “LENNONYC” and “John & Yoko: Above Us Only Sky.” His 2020 investigative podcast “Murder in House Two” reached No. 1 on Apple Podcasts’ True Crime chart in the UK. 

“‘Fault Line: Haditha’ represents the kind of ambitious investigative storytelling that podcasts are uniquely suited to deliver,” said Will Pearson, President of iHeartPodcasts. “Michael has spent years examining this story, bringing together firsthand accounts, extensive reporting and remarkable access to revisit questions that have remained unresolved for two decades. We’re proud to partner with Michael, Crowd Network and High Road Entertainment to bring this important investigation to audiences across both audio and video.” 

“Over the last two decades, there have been hundreds of reported stories that sought to tell the truth of what happened in Haditha,” said Michael Carr, CEO, Crowd Network. “But Michael approached this tragedy differently. He never stopped questioning. He never stopped searching for the truth. His relentless passion and gift for storytelling reveal themselves not only in this podcast, but in the companion films that let audiences see this story, not just hear it.”

“Michael and I have worked together on this story of Haditha for many years now, driven by a shared vision of getting it heard as far and wide as possible,” said Richard Tulk-Hart, co-CEO, High Road Entertainment. “The more recent developments of this highly emotional and complex case have allowed for the podcast to come together in this unique format combining audio and documentary footage, and iHeart's support has been instrumental. Conversations are now underway to bring the remarkable story to our screens, continuing to allow these voices to be heard.”

“Fault Line: Haditha” is distributed by iHeartPodcasts and is available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard. Video episodes will be available on YouTube.

About Michael Epstein

Michael Epstein is an Academy Award-nominated documentary filmmaker and podcast producer whose work has been awarded two George Foster Peabody Awards, two Primetime Emmys, a Writers Guild of America Award, a Clio, and numerous other honors. His films have been screened at dozens of international festivals, including the Sundance Film Festival, the Berlinalé, the Toronto International Film Festival, and the New York Film Festival. His first documentary film, The Battle Over Citizen Kane, was awarded a Peabody and nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. Epstein’s other work includes Combat Diary (Primetime Emmy nomination), LENNONYC (Peabody and Primetime Emmy Awards), and John & Yoko: Above Us Only Sky (International Emmy nomination). Epstein’s original podcast series, “Murder in House Two,” was released in 2020 and became the #1 True Crime podcast (Apple) in the UK.

About Crowd Network

Crowd Network is a multi-platform content company creating and commercialising talent-led brands across sport, entertainment, and culture. Founded in 2020 and based in Manchester, England, Crowd works with some of the world’s leading athletes, broadcasters, and creators to build content brands that live across YouTube, social, audio, and live experiences. Its portfolio includes the For the Love network of sports content brands, alongside partnerships with major global brands and organisations.

About High Road Entertainment

High Road Entertainment is a scripted production and advisory company founded by Richard Tulk-Hart, former co-CEO of Buccaneer, and James Durie, former head of scripted television at Cineflix Rights. The company has its own slate of film and Television in development and recently helped set up BBC/Masterpiece series, “Portrait of a Lady” as well as “Mavis” for ITV. It is involved in multiple co-productions across the UK, US and International markets and represents a variety of high-end production companies. High Road also advises scripted producers on financing and distribution.

A new scripted audio series written and created by Stephen Kronish and starring actors Michael Imperioli, Steve Schirripa and Ray Abruzzo premieres Tuesday, September 1

NEW YORK — August 24, 2026 — iHeartPodcasts, the No. 1 podcast publisher globally according to Podtrac, Thoroughbred Studios and Goldhawk Productions today announced the launch of “UnderGround Zero: 9/11 & The Mob | Starring Michael Imperioli & Steve Schirripa,” a powerful new scripted drama podcast that tells the untold story of how the New York Mafia made millions in the aftermath of the fall of the Twin Towers on 9/11.

Written and created by Stephen Kronish (The Kennedys, 24), it stars four of the cast of “The Sopranos.” Led and executive produced by Michael Imperioli and featuring Steve Schirripa, Ray Abruzzo and Arthur Nascarella. “UnderGround Zero” is the third title to be released from the Thoroughbred Studios and iHeartPodcasts slate of historical shows, focused on significant events and figures that have shaped the past century. Listen to the trailer for “UnderGround Zero” now.

Premiering on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 with all episodes available, the series will take listeners back exactly 25 years to September 11, 2001. While 3,000 families mourned their loved ones and the world grieved with them, five crime families saw a twisted opportunity to profit – “UnderGround Zero” tells this story.

Less than two hours after the Twin Towers collapsed on 9/11, fire-fighters, police officers and rescue workers battled flames, explosions, choking dust – and a city in chaos – to save the living and remove the dead. Across the East River, in the shadow of the Brooklyn Bridge, an emergency meeting was underway. The men gathered there were powerful, polished and well connected. Like the rest of America, they were shocked by the destruction, furious at the attack and moved by the suffering of its victims. 

But they were not like the rest of America. They saw a nefarious opportunity and turned catastrophe into an enormous windfall. Their scheme might have succeeded on an even greater scale were it not for one dedicated and courageous cop. Because of him, many of the men involved were ultimately convicted and imprisoned. 

Based on real events, “UnderGround Zero” will reveal a shocking true story born in the immediate aftermath of 9/11 – one that has never been told. Names of the guilty have been changed to protect the innocent and certain events have been dramatized, but the story at the heart of “UnderGround Zero” is true. 

“UnderGround Zero” is the personal story of two men, each doing their jobs, whose lives are irrevocably changed as they confront their past – and each other.

“As a New Yorker who lived through 9/11, this story resonated with me immediately,” said Executive Producer Michael Imperioli. “UnderGround Zero is rooted in crime and investigation, but ultimately, it’s a story about family, loyalty and survival. I’m excited to step into the role of Lt. Frank Sturiano."

“Like Michael, it was a story I thought I knew, but I didn’t,” said Steve Schirripa. “Working again with my former Soprano castmates Ray Abruzzo and Arthur Nascarella is always a pleasure, and being given the opportunity to help bring to light this horrific event was very worthwhile."

“UnderGround Zero” is part of iHeartPodcasts’ ongoing collaboration with Thoroughbred Studios, a joint venture from Jeff Bewkes (former Chairman and CEO of Time Warner), Sir Howard Stringer (former Chairman and CEO of Sony Corporation) and television veteran, Jeremy Fox. Building on series including “Buzz” and “Saigon,” the partnership focuses on developing premium drama podcasts that explore defining moments and untold stories from the past century, bringing cinematic storytelling to some of the most consequential events in modern history.

Jeff Bewkes, Chairman of Thoroughbred Studios said: “One of the first things I did when I became Head of HBO was to greenlight ‘The Sopranos.’ It’s a decision I’ve never regretted. Now, 25 years later to tell this important story, it was the perfect opportunity to bring back that amazing cast.”  

“‘Underground Zero’ resonates deeply with me because it brings back powerful memories,” said Sir Howard Stringer, Executive Producer. “This was when I was at CBS and we made ‘Essay on the Mafia’ with Nic Pileggi who went on to write both ‘Goodfellas’ and ‘Casino.’”

“Recording ‘UnderGround Zero’ in the city itself was essential to capturing the story’s pulse,” added John Scott Dryden, Director.  “Working with a cast of almost entirely New Yorkers – many of whom experienced that fateful day firsthand – gave the drama an authenticity that could never be manufactured. The city doesn’t simply provide a backdrop—it’s a character in its own right.”

“Great storytelling has the power to transport listeners and bring history to life in a deeply personal way,” said Will Pearson, President of iHeartPodcasts. “‘UnderGround Zero’ is exactly the kind of premium storytelling we’re proud to bring to our audiences, and to really allow listeners to fully immerse themselves in this story, we will release all the episodes in one day.”

“UnderGround Zero: 9/11 & The Mob | Starring Michael Imperioli & Steve Schirripa” is distributed by iHeartPodcasts and will be available September 1 on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard. 

Industry-first activation marks a major milestone in AI-powered media buying for premium audio

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — [August 20, 2026] — Butler/Till, an independent media agency, today announced the completion of the advertising industry's first agentic streaming audio media campaign with iHeartMedia, marking the first time premium streaming audio inventory has been purchased through an AI-powered agentic media buying workflow.

Launched on behalf of a US Agricultural Solutions company, the campaign demonstrates how artificial intelligence is moving beyond planning and optimization to participate in the execution of premium media transactions. Operating within marketer-defined objectives, governance and strategic human oversight, the campaign represents a significant step toward a more intelligent, responsive and efficient media marketplace.

As the largest audio company in the United States, iHeartMedia is expanding how advertisers access premium audio inventory by introducing agentic media buying, with plans to make broadcast radio available through agentic transactions later this year. This builds on iHeart's recent launch of AudioGraph™, a first-of-its-kind capability that brings digital-like targeting, identity-based planning, measurement and attribution to broadcast radio at scale, helping connect radio more seamlessly to the broader digital advertising ecosystem. Together, these innovations are creating new ways for advertisers to buy, optimize and measure audio campaigns with greater precision and efficiency. 

Until now, agentic buying has largely been limited to media channels already accessible through programmatic technology. Bringing broadcast radio into this ecosystem marks a significant milestone, extending the benefits of agentic buying beyond traditional programmatic media and signaling the next evolution in how advertisers plan, buy, and optimize campaigns with scale across channels.

“We’re constantly exploring new opportunities for brands to connect with audiences at scale and pioneering new ways to modernize audio advertising, making it more accessible, efficient and effective,” said Lisa Coffey, Chief Business Officer for iHeartMedia.  “Our collaboration with Butler/Till on this industry-first agentic campaign represents an important step forward in how advertisers access and activate premium audio inventory, demonstrating how AI can help create a more dynamic and efficient marketplace while maintaining the quality, scale and accountability our partners expect from iHeart.” 

As iHeartMedia's launch partner, Butler/Till played a pivotal role in bringing this industry-first initiative to fruition, reflecting the agency's leadership in responsible AI adoption and its commitment to helping clients apply emerging technologies to solve real business challenges.

"Every major transformation in media begins with a first and we're proud to partner with iHeart on this industry milestone," said Scott Ensign, Chief Strategy Officer at Butler/Till. "Programmatic buying, private marketplaces and connected TV each redefined how media was bought and sold. Agentic media is the next evolution. This campaign demonstrates that AI can execute media buying within human-defined strategy and governance, creating a faster, smarter marketplace for advertisers and publishers alike. iHeart combines premium inventory with the unmatched scale of broadcast radio, making them an ideal partner to help bring this innovation to market.” 

The campaign demonstrated that the benefits of agentic buying extend beyond workflow efficiency to media performance. The agentic buy delivered streaming audio 42 percent more efficiently than the advertiser’s traditional direct buying benchmark. In podcasting, 48 percent of impressions were delivered in high-value, non-skippable mid-roll placements, compared with 33 percent allocated to mid-roll in the traditional plan. These efficiencies were achieved while maintaining access to comparable premium inventory, demonstrating the potential for agentic buying to drive greater cost efficiency without sacrificing inventory quality.

Unlike traditional automation, which follows predefined workflows, agentic media buying enables AI agents to evaluate campaign objectives, identify opportunities and execute approved media buying decisions dynamically within clearly defined business rules. Human expertise remains central to strategy, governance and oversight, while AI improves the speed, efficiency and adaptability of campaign execution.

For publishers, agentic workflows have the potential to reduce transaction friction while maintaining control over premium inventory and pricing. For advertisers like this US Agricultural Solutions company, they create opportunities to respond more quickly to changing business objectives, optimize media investments in real time and reduce operational complexity without sacrificing strategic control or brand safety. 

While this inaugural campaign focused on streaming audio, Butler/Till and iHeartMedia see broader opportunities for AI-enabled media transactions across additional premium inventory over time. Together, the companies are helping establish a foundation for a more intelligent advertising ecosystem, one that combines the speed and adaptability of AI with the strategic judgment and oversight of experienced media professionals.

About Butler/Till

Butler/Till is an employee-owned independent media and communications agency that helps brands create measurable business growth through media, analytics, technology and customer experience. The agency partners with leading healthcare, consumer and B2B organizations to deliver data-driven marketing solutions while advancing responsible AI adoption, omnichannel strategy and modern media innovation. Learn more at butlertill.com.

Fear of Judgment Is Shaping Gen Z Behavior and Fueling Radio’s Influence with Younger Audiences 

Report Released to Marketers During a Panel Session with the Jonas Brothers at iHeartMedia HQ on August 19

NEW YORK – Aug. 19, 2026 – iHeartMedia, the leading audio company in America and the No. 1 podcast publisher globally according to Podtrac, today unveiled new consumer research, fielded through Critical Mass Media, examining Gen Z's relationship with audio and the surprising resilience of broadcast radio among younger audiences. The study reveals that Gen Z's desire for community and belonging is driving a surprising resurgence in radio engagement, with the medium continuing to serve as a key source of music discovery, social connection and shared cultural experiences for young listeners.

According to Nielsen, broadcast radio reaches 90 percent of teenagers (13–19) monthly, ahead of YouTube (75 percent), TikTok (58 percent) and ad-supported Spotify (26 percent). Crucially, radio dominates Gen Z's ad-supported audio time with 47 percent, according to Edison Share of Ear, outpacing 31 percent for streaming music and 21 percent for podcasts.

"While Gen Z is conventionally thought to want everything on-demand and tailored to their needs, the data shows that teenagers are gravitating to the safety and anonymity of radio to create community," said Lainie Fertick, President of Insights for iHeartMedia. "In a world where young people often feel pressure to curate how they present themselves online, radio offers a shared experience where identity isn't being evaluated and personal taste isn't on trial."

The new study explains why Gen Z connects with radio:

Fear of Judgment Is Shaping Gen Z Behavior - Growing up in an era defined by social media, mobile technology and AI has created a heightened sensitivity to judgment among younger consumers. 40 percent of Gen Z say they have decided not to post something they care about on social media because they worried peers might use it to embarrass them. Additionally, 44 percent say they have actively reduced their social media usage, while 43 percent of teens report feeling pressure to only post content that makes them look good to others. More than one-third (37 percent) feel pressure to share only content that will generate a high number of likes or comments, and 45 percent have deleted posts that received too little validation from others. 

Music may define Gen Z's identity, but radio helps them connect without judgment: For Gen Z, music is far more than entertainment, it's a reflection of personal identity. Nearly all Gen Z listeners (96 percent) say the music they choose says something about who they are, and 68 percent update their playlists daily or weekly, compared to 44 percent of all listeners. Yet that self-expression comes with pressure: seven in 10 worry about being judged for what they play, more than double the rate of listeners age 35 and older.

Radio offers an alternative. Rather than putting young listeners in the position of selecting the soundtrack for a group, radio removes that responsibility and the potential criticism that can come with it. 85 percent of Gen Z respondents say they feel less likely to be judged when listening to radio with others, while 77 percent say radio feels safer or less risky to play in a group setting. Eight in 10 consider it appropriate for virtually any audience, including friends, parents, coworkers and children. This dynamic helps explain why 84 percent default to radio when riding in a car with others and 60 percent say it's simply easier to enjoy as a group, making Gen Z the biggest co-listening generation to date.

Co-listening is a Gen Z behavior, not a legacy one: This co-listening trend is unique to Gen Z. 63 percent listen to radio with others frequently or nearly always, versus 42 percent of all radio listeners — a 50 percent higher likelihood than any other age group. Compared to all listeners, they over-index on listening with friends (59 percent vs 36 percent) parents (59 percent vs 14 percent) and siblings (39 percent vs 13 percent). Unlike older generations who typically listen in the mornings, Gen Z’s co-listening time is concentrated in the late afternoon and evening when they’re often around others. For 57 percent of respondents, co-listening happens naturally when friends are together, and that’s often in the car (93 percent), running errands (61 percent), road trips (57 percent) and commuting (54 percent).   

Airplay converts to conversation, and conversation moves product: An added bonus of co-listening is that it leads to more discussions between groups influenced by the shared experience. In the study, 80 percent of Gen Z respondents say they like to talk to others about what they hear on the radio, whether that’s songs, artists, news headlines, DJ bits and content, and even advertisements. Overall, 91 percent say radio gives their social circles something to talk about and 90 percent say hearing it together sparks conversation afterward. In addition, 81 percent say they’re more likely to talk about what they hear when listening with others than alone -- and 6 in 10 say mentioning a song, artist, brand or product out loud makes them more likely to search for more information about it.

The data showed this generation values external curation with 68 percent more likely to view radio as a way to discover new music and content than older generations. And when a Gen Z listener hears their song on the air, three things happen: they feel much-needed validation of their tastes, belonging with their community of young people and an emotional hit of surprise and nostalgia that a self-selected stream simply can't manufacture.

 This research reveals that younger listeners are valuing community in response to early childhoods spent in isolation, and look for conflict-free entertainment to enjoy with the people they love most. That makes radio the shared, low-risk, high-conversation space where new music gets heard by communities rather than individuals.

"As Gen Z's purchasing power continues to grow, marketers need to understand not just where they can reach this audience, but how influence happens," said Lisa Coffey, Chief Business Officer for iHeartMedia. “Radio reaches Gen Z at scale in trusted, shared environments where discovery happens collectively and conversations happen naturally, giving brands a unique opportunity to become part of the cultural moment and drive meaningful engagement.”

The findings were presented by Lainie Fertick, President of Insights for iHeartMedia on a panel discussion with the Jonas Brothers today, August 19 at the iHeartMedia Headquarters in New York City.

The “Gen Z” Consumer Methodology:

This research was conducted by Critical Mass Media in June 2026​ among a national sample of 1,090 adults -- 18-64 Radio Listeners​. Demos included 46% of participants aged adults 18-34 and 54% aged adults 35-64​.

Listen to today’s new episode featuring Langston Kerman, HERE

Video episodes now available, HERE

WHAT: “Scam Goddess”, the award-winning comedy podcast dedicated to fraud and all those who practice it, joins iHeartMedia and Will Ferrell's Big Money Players podcast network (BMP) and expands into video, allowing fans to watch the full-length episodes for the first time.

Named one of TIME Magazine's 10 Best Podcasts of 2022, “Scam Goddess” has grown from an acclaimed podcast into a bestselling book, a Hulu television series and a sold-out national live tour. 

In every episode, the Scam Goddess herself, Laci Mosley (A Black Lady Sketch Show, iCarly, Going Dutch), covers the hottest scams on the streets today while also giving in-depth breakdowns of the wildest robberies, rackets and capers throughout history. It's like true crime, but without all the death—aka True Con! Plus, Mosley is always joined by hilarious guests like Conan O'Brien, Miranda Cosgrove, Jameela Jamil, Lamorne Morris, Ayo Edebiri, Gayle King, Nicole Byer, Matt Rogers and more. Join the Scam Goddess "Con-gregation" to experience the funny side of fraud. And as Mosley always says, “stay schemin'!”

The first video episode, “F.R.A.U.D. is Dope the Jonathan Dupiton Con with Langston Kerman,” premieres today and will feature comedian and “My Momma Told Me” host Langston Kerman. He will join the show to break down AI ads, beach ab shots and shoddy merch Jonathan Dupiton released for Dupiton’s podcast "Rich and Unemployed." 

WHO: Comedian Laci Mosley and iHeartMedia and Will Ferrell’s Big Money Players podcast network. See the full lineup of Big Money Player podcasts HERE. Full host bio below.

WHEN: “Scam Goddess” is available through BMP now, with its first full-length video episode premiering today, August 18, 2026, on YouTube at 12 p.m. PT. New episodes are released weekly on Tuesdays and classic episodes re-released every Friday. 

WHERE: Scam Goddess is distributed by iHeartPodcasts and available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are heard. Listen now, HERE. Video episodes are now available on YouTube. 

About Laci Mosley

Comedian, actress, producer, writer, bestselling author, and self-proclaimed "Queen of Scam," Laci Mosley has been at the forefront of the true crime and scam storytelling phenomenon since launching Scam Goddess in 2019. Over the last seven years, she has transformed her original concept into the Scam Goddess empire; a multiplatform franchise spanning podcasting, publishing, television, and live entertainment. Named one of TIME Magazine's 10 Best Podcasts of 2022, Scam Goddess has grown from an acclaimed podcast into a bestselling book, a Hulu television series, and a sold-out national Live Nation tour, with Laci performing her one woman show at iconic venues including House of Blues Chicago and Gramercy Theatre in New York City, as well as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston, and Dallas.

About Big Money Players

Founded by Will Ferrell and iHeartMedia, the Big Money Players Network is the premiere destination for comedy podcasts and home to top comedic talent across a variety of formats and styles – both scripted and unscripted. In addition to audio’s No. 1 comedy “The Ron Burgundy Podcast,” BMP features long-running hits like “Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang,” “Thanks Dad with Ego Nwodim,” “Hollywood Handbook,”  “StraightioLab” and more. All BMP podcasts are executive produced by Will Ferrell and iHeartMedia and are distributed by iHeartPodcasts. See the full catalog here.