iHeartMedia

Chilling, Dark-Mystery Podcast Marks First-Ever Adapted Podcast Of Stephen King’s Original Short Story, From His Classic 1978 Collection Of Short Stories Night Shift

Garrett Hedlund, Milo Ventimiglia, Herizen F. Gaurdiola, Sydney Sweeney, Ken Marino, Al Madrigal, And Brec Bassinger Set To Star

Los Angeles - July 20, 2021 - Based on the short story by Stephen King, Strawberry Spring, will get its first ever adaptation as a chilling, new scripted podcast. Produced by critically acclaimed podcast production studio giant, Audio Up Media, iHeartMedia, the No. 1 global podcast publisher, and Emmy Award-winning television producer Lee Metzger (NBC’s The Voice), the riveting eight episode series is set to premiere later this summer. Metzger is also setto write and direct the limited series, with an all-star cast that includes actor Garrett Hedlund, Milo Ventimiglia, Herizen F. Gaurdiola, Sydney Sweeney, Ken Marino, and Al Madrigal with more to-be-announced. EMMY Award winner Philip Alberstat is set to produce.

“Strawberry Spring” follows a journalist who hears the name "Springheel Jack" while listening to the radio, rekindling memories of a time when he was a student at New Sharon College and reminding him of when he first heard of the serial killer. The dark mystery quickly unfolds in a hunt for a killer, as our hero will stop at nothing to track down the vicious murderer even If it threatens his own survival.

Jared Gutstadt, Audio Up Media’s Founder and CEO, has a longstanding relationship with Metzger, and the two were searching for a project to work on together. “When Lee mentioned ‘Strawberry Spring,’ I knew immediately it was a winner,” said Gutstadt. “Audio Up prides itself on continually raising the bar within audio entertainment, from working with top Hollywood actors to script creation, all the way to how we approach sound design and music composition. We hope this will be a breakout podcast this fall. I am so beyond excited for Stephen King fans to experience his work in the Audio Up podcast universe."

“Having the opportunity to take this classic story thriller written by the most recognized horror author of all time, Stephen King, and turn it into a scripted podcast for listeners is pretty special,” said Conal Byrne, CEO of the iHeartMedia Digital Audio Group. “And partnering with Audio Up is the perfect way to do it, given their unique ability to tell complex, great stories in this medium.” “Strawberry Spring” marks the third “audio-blockbuster” collaboration between Audio Up and iHeartMedia.

Added Metzger, “as a lifelong fan of Stephen King, I couldn’t be more excited to work with Jared, Audio Up, and iHeart Media to bring this story to life. I couldn’t ask for a better project for my first scripted podcast.”

Blake Shelton, Toby Keith, Little Big Town, Jake Owen, Lee Brice, Carly Pearce, Cole Swindell and Chase Rice Lead Lineup on October 30 at Frank Erwin Center in Austin, Texas hosted by Bobby Bones

LiveXLive Will Exclusively Live Stream the iHeartCountry Festival Nationwide

New York, NY – July 20, 2021 – iHeartMedia announced today the return of the iHeartCountry Festival Presented by Capital One on Saturday, October 30. Now in its eighth year, the 2021 lineup will feature Country music’s hottest artists including Blake Shelton, Toby Keith, Little Big Town, Jake Owen, Lee Brice, Carly Pearce, Cole Swindell and Chase Rice performing live at the Frank Erwin Center in Austin hosted once again by iHeartMedia's nationally-syndicated top on-air Country personality, Bobby Bones.

“The iHeartCountry Festival is one of Country music’s most-anticipated nights, and this year is especially exciting,” said Rod Phillips, Executive Vice President of Programming for iHeartCountry. “Live music is back, and we can’t wait to return to the Frank Erwin Center with this iconic lineup.”

LiveXLive Media (Nasdaq: LIVX) (“LiveXLive”) will exclusively stream the main stage celebration for fans globally on livexlive.com and iHeartMedia’s Country music radio stations will broadcast the event live in their local markets and on iHeartRadio.com.

iHeartCountry has more than 150 Country stations across the U.S. reaching more than 110 million Country music listeners per month on broadcast alone, making it the largest Country broadcast radio group in America. The iHeartCountry Festival Presented by Capital One is part of iHeartMedia’s roster of nationally-recognized events including the iHeartRadio Music Festival, the iHeartRadio Music Awards, the nationwide iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour Presented by Capital One, iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina, iHeartRadio ALTer Ego Presented by Capital One, iHeartRadio Wango Tango and the iHeartRadio Podcast Awards.

The iHeartCountry Festival Presented by Capital One is an iHeartMedia Production. Proud partners of this year’s event include Capital One, Progressive® Insurance, Ram Trucks, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Twisted Tea® Hard Iced Tea with more to be announced. For more information visit iHeartRadio.com/countryfestival.

Capital One Cardholders have exclusive access to special pre-sale tickets before the general public for 48 hours only beginning Tuesday, July 27 at 11 a.m. ET/10 a.m. CT through Thursday, July 29 at 11 a.m. ET/10 a.m. CT. Pre-sale information and tickets can be found at iHeartRadio.com/CapitalOne. Additionally, Capital One Cardholders can add a Capital One Access Pass to their purchase to enjoy a VIP cardholder event at iHeartCountry Festival featuring an intimate performance by Lee Brice, complimentary food and beverage, and more. Supplies are limited.

Tickets go on sale to the general public on Friday, July 30 at 1 p.m. ET/12 p.m. CT via TexasBoxOffice.com.

About LiveXLive Media, Inc.

Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, LiveXLive Media, Inc. (NASDAQ: LIVX) (the "Company") (pronounced Live "by ''Live) is a global talent-first, interactive music, sports, and entertainment subscription platform delivering premium content and livestreams from the world's top artists. The Company has streamed over 1,800 artists since January 2020, a library featuring close to 30 million songs, 500 expertly curated radio stations, 235 podcasts/vodcasts, hundreds of pay-per-views, personalized merchandise, an NFT business, and has created a valuable connection between brands, fans, and bands. LiveXLive Media's other major wholly-owned subsidiaries are LiveXLive, Slacker Radio, React Presents, Custom Personalization Solutions, and PodcastOne, which generates more than 2.27 billion downloads per year and 300+ episodes distributed per week across a stable of hundreds of top podcasts. The combination of acquisitions and the expansion of products and franchises have secured LiveXLive as a top-rated music, entertainment and media services company. LiveXLive is available on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire, and through OTT, STIRR, Sling, and XUMO, in addition to its app, online website, and social channels. For more information, visit www.livexlive.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @livexlive.

About the Frank Erwin Center:

Located in the heart of downtown Austin, the Frank Erwin Center has served Central Texans with the best in live entertainment, including concerts, theatrical performances, family shows and sporting events since 1977. The multi-purpose facility is owned and operated by The University of Texas at Austin and serves as the home court for the Texas Longhorns Men’s and Women’s basketball teams.

About Capital One

At Capital One we’re on a mission for our customers – bringing them great products, rewards, service, and access to unique and unforgettable experiences they are passionate about. Capital One is a diversified bank that offers products and services to individuals, small businesses and commercial clients. We use technology, innovation and interaction to provide customers with products and services to meet their needs. Learn more at capitalone.com/access.

INSPIRATIONAL GUEST TEACHERS & HEALERS INCLUDE JEFFREY MARSH, DR. ETHAN KROSS, BETHANY WEBSTER AND MORE; LISTEN TO SEASON 2 TRAILER HERE

Download Artwork HERE

 PR Photos HERE (Photo Credit: Norman Seeff)

Los Angeles, CA - July 19 2021 - Today, GRAMMY Award-winning singer/songwriter, actress, and mental health advocate LeAnn Rimes continues her wellness journey with the second season premiere of her mental health and wholeness podcast, Wholly Human, produced in partnership with iHeartRadio. Listen to the season two trailer here: LINK

In the first season of Wholly Human, which reached #2 on iTunes Health & Fitness chart and in the Top 35 overall for podcasts worldwide, Rimes turned her attention and intention to helping others overcome the fragmentation that keeps us from feeling more complete and connected in today’s world. Featured guests included GRAMMY-nominated singer/songwriter Aloe Blacc, journalist and best-selling author Dan Harris, life coach Ryan Weiss, breathwork teaser Ashley Neese, and more.  

In the second season, Rimes will continue her wellness exploration with guests such as experimental psychologist Dr. Ethan Kross who specializes in emotion regulation, bestselling author Danielle LaPorte who specializes in heart-centered conscious, TikTok & Instagram star Jeffrey Marsh described as "the internet's most beloved anti-bully," bestselling author Steven Kotler who is one of the world’s leading experts on human performance, Bethany Webster considered the global expert on healing the “Mother Wound,” among others.

Following the release of the first season, Wholly Human quickly drew five-star ratings and praise from listeners worldwide: 

• “I am on quite a journey right now and without this podcast and your guidance I don’t know where I would be. Love this podcast and look forward to it every week.”
• “Most podcasts seem very self-absorbed, but I feel very aligned with her journey and it feels like we are on it together. Her vulnerability is so refreshing and honest.”
• “It has changed the way I react to difficult situations… Thanks for being vulnerable, honest and totally yourself. Happy to have found this.”
• “Rimes makes you feel like you’re just listening to a good friend while having a glass of wine! From someone who has had all the highs and all the lows, when she speaks of healing you can trust that it comes from experience and hard self work.”
• “LeAnn has a point of view unlike any other. That’s a fact. And she’s providing discourse on an important topic, the human experience in all its complexities, and adding insight to the discussion.”

Today, the GRAMMY Award-winning artist stands stronger than ever and remains dedicated to using her singular voice to uplift others. As she celebrates her 25th anniversary, Rimes will continue her country-wide tour, and in early fall, will release her next studio album, God’s Work. To find out more, visit: https://leannrimes.com/

Wholly Human is distributed by the iHeartPodcast Network and is available on iHeartRadio and everywhere podcasts are heard.

About LeAnn Rimes:

LeAnn Rimes is an international multi-platinum selling acclaimed singer and ASCAP award-winning songwriter who has sold more than 44 million units globally, won 2 Grammy® Awards; 12 Billboard Music Awards; 2 World Music Awards; 3 Academy of Country Music Awards; one Country Music Association Award and one Dove Award. At 14, Rimes won "Best New Artist” making her the youngest recipient to take home a Grammy® Award. LeAnn has been honored with the Ally of Equality Award by the Human Rights Campaign for over 20 years of equal rights support, the 2019 HOPE Award for Depression Advocacy, and 2009 ACM Humanitarian Award, among other recognitions, solidifying her dedication to making the world a better place.

The powerhouse vocalist lit up television screens throughout the 2018 holiday season as she starred and served as an Executive Producer in Hallmark’s “It’s Christmas, Eve,” which earned the highest TV original movie debut to-date for the channel premiering to over 4.3 million viewers. In 2020, Rimes shined the brightest and won season four of FOX’s The Masked Singer, with Entertainment Weekly stating that she delivered “... the most beautiful performance in the history of The Masked Singer.”

Passionate about using her voice to help heal the world, LeAnn released a chant record in November of 2020 called CHANT: The Human and The Holy (Soul of EverLe / Thirty Tigers). Rimes continued her wellness journey with the launch of an iHeartRadio podcast, Wholly Human, which brings her lifestyle blog, Soul of EverLe, to life and introduces fans to the teachers and wise souls that have made a positive impact on her life. Next up, LeAnn will celebrate her 25th anniversary as a recording artist in 2021 with the release of her next studio album, God’s Work.

Hosted by drug policy pioneer Ethan Nadelmann, the new podcast tackles all things drugs. Listen to the trailer here.

WHAT:

iHeartMedia, the No. 1 podcast publisher globally according to Podtrac, and Protozoa Pictures, the production company of Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Darren Aronofsky, announced today a partnership to launch a new original podcast “PSYCHOACTIVE,” making this Aronofsky and Protozoa Pictures’ first entry into the podcasting space. The podcast is hosted by Ethan Nadelmann, founder of the Drug Policy Alliance and known as “The Godfather of Drug Policy Reform,” who will get to the bottom of our nation’s strange relationship to drugs by talking with scientists, politicians, activists and celebrities.

“PSYCHOACTIVE” is more timely than ever, with psychedelic research and start-ups booming, new synthetic drugs being created weekly, overdose fatalities reaching unprecedented levels, an awakening to racial inequity and mass incarceration, new marijuana policy reform around the country, illicit drug markets moving rapidly online, disruptive technologies transforming the tobacco industry and the federal government at last beginning to support harm reduction programs. “PSYCHOACTIVE” will be the first of its kind—a home for honest and informed conversations about drugs.

Ethan will sit down with former President of Colombia and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Juan Manuel Santos on the international drug war and crafting drug diplomacy with President Obama; Dan Savage on how psychoactive drugs can benefit relationships...including his own; bestseller Dr. Andrew Weil on the health benefits of psychoactive substances; legal scholar and Pulitzer winner James Forman Jr. on the impact of the Drug War on the Black community; Dr. Nora Volkow, Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse at National Institutes of Health on crafting government drug research policy under the last four presidents; lifestyle writer Tim Ferriss on mental health and the future of psychedelics; writer Michael Pollan on his new book This Is Your Mind on Plants; investigative journalist Patrick Radden Keefe on his investigations into Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family; and many more.

WHEN:

New episodes will debut every Thursday on iHeartRadio and all major platforms.

WHERE:

“PSYCHOACTIVE” is co-produced by Protozoa Pictures and is distributed by the iHeartPodcast Network. Listen to new episodes on iHeartRadio and everywhere else podcasts are heard.

EMBED WIDGET:

About Protozoa Pictures

Protozoa Pictures is Academy Award®-nominated director Darren Aronofsky's production company. Founded in 1996, the company’s work includes the critically-acclaimed films Some Kind of Heaven, mother!, Jackie, Noah, Black Swan, The Wrestler, The Fountain, Requiem for a Dream, and π; and the television series One Strange Rock for Nat Geo. PSYCHOACTIVE is Protozoa’s first podcast.

Kelsey Grammer narrates the neo-noir-esque mystery, which kicks off iHeartMedia and Will Packer Media’s production and content partnership

Listen to the official trailer here 

NEW YORK – July 13, 2021 – iHeartMedia, the No. 1 podcast publisher globally according to podtrac, and Will Packer Media, a first-of-its-kind production and branded content company led by record-breaking Hollywood producer Will Packer, today debuted “The Lower Bottoms,” a new scripted and shadowy podcast series told through the voices that make-up a quickly gentrifying neighborhood in West Oakland, California. The ten-episode series is the first production from the recently-announced partnership between the two companies, which will introduce a slate of original scripted and unscripted podcasts to the iHeartPodcast Network. The official trailer for “The Lower Bottoms” is available today, with the first episode launching July 20 on iHeartRadio and all major podcast platforms.

Narrated by legendary actor Kelsey Grammer (Cheers, Frasier), the new series centers on intensifying tensions in the Bay Area’s Lower Bottoms, where newcomers and natives clash amid a troubling rise of vandalism and arson. Each episode of the narrative podcast inches closer to revealing the perpetrator of these crimes, though discovering their identity turns out to be anything but simple. Along the way, listeners will be enveloped by the sounds that define West Oakland: the call of train horns and ships arriving at the port, iconic jazz music and the words of outspoken activists. The show was created and written by Dominique Mouton, and produced by Will Packer, James Lopez, Joelle Monique for iHeartRadio and Jack Levy, who also directed the series.

The iHeartMedia and Will Packer Media partnership builds on the success of the true crime podcast “Fight Night,” which launched October 2020. Now, with “The Lower Bottoms,” the two companies are bringing listeners into a whole new world of conspiracies, mystery and intrigue.

"When writer/creator Dominique Mouton and director/producer Jack Levy sent me the pitch materials and proof of concept audio for ‘The Lower Bottoms’ I was hooked,” said James Lopez, President of Will Packer Productions. “Dominique's writing is vivid and colorful and easily translated to the audio format. The amazing cast we were able to put together was a testament to the material. We are fortunate to have found this great piece as our first narrative podcast and are excited to partner with iHeartMedia to introduce it to listeners everywhere."

“I can’t think of a better show to kick off our partnership with Will Packer Media than ‘The Lower Bottoms,’” said Will Pearson, Chief Operating Officer for the iHeartPodcast Network. “The series offers a little bit of everything: compelling characters, surprising twists, dark comedy and, of course, the legendary talents of Kelsey Grammer guiding us through the unmistakable atmosphere of the Bay Area. We’re excited for listeners to experience this richly-realized world and hear the stories its characters have to tell.”

In addition to Grammer’s narration, the cast of “The Lower Bottoms” includes a number of other well-known Hollywood performers. Ryan Destiny (Star, Flint Strong, Oracle) plays Rebecca, an outspoken social justice activist with a secret backstory; Theo Rossi (Army of the Dead, Sons of Anarchy, Luke Cage) is Lenny, a boisterous cafe owner with a chip on his shoulder; Annie Ilonzeh (Peppermint, Person of Interest, Chicago Fire) lends her voice to Beulah, a confident but reserved young woman looking to find her way; and Omar Dorsey (Queen Sugar, Genius) is Pastor Green, a Baptist minister with connections across the community. These characters — and more — cross paths in sudden and unexpected ways as the story of “The Lower Bottoms'' unfolds.

“The Lower Bottoms” is distributed by the iHeartPodcast Network. Listeners can visit iHeart.com/apps to download iHeartRadio and listen to the official trailer today on their favorite device.

About Will Packer Media

Led by Hollywood producer Will Packer, Will Packer Media is a first-of-its-kind production and branded content company focused on the New American Mainstream audience. In partnership with Discovery, Inc. and Universal Pictures, the company produces episodic scripted and unscripted series across television and digital platforms, compelling content for brand clients, and short-form digital content for millennial audiences. Will Packer’s films have earned more than $1 billion, with ten opening at number one at the box office.

Los Angeles, CA – July 12, 2021 – iHeartMedia announced today that Kevin LeGrett will take on the role of President of iHeartMedia Sports, effective immediately.

iHeartMedia Sports is the largest sports audio network in the U.S., with products across broadcast, streaming, digital, podcast and experiential. In his new role, LeGrett will work closely with all groups within the company to coordinate its sports assets across all iHeart audio platforms to maximize the impact for its listeners, partners and clients.

The portfolio includes the iHeartSports Network, which provides customized local, regional and national sports content and updates across 500+ stations, reaching more than 75 million people monthly; the Fox Sports Network which features the largest nationally syndicated shows on more than 600 stations with the biggest names in the industry like Dan Patrick and Colin Cowherd; and 80 dedicated sports stations nationwide with 100+ NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL and NCAA teams. Additionally, it features the iHeartPodcast Network, the No. 1 podcast publisher globally according to Podtrac, with more than 40 national and 100 local sports podcasts and 14 of the top 30 most listened to sports podcasts -- plus a recently announced exclusive podcast agreement with the NFL.

“We have assembled a one-of-a-kind, cross-platform sports portfolio that is best-in-class. We have scale. We have targetability. We have first party data. We have the best on-air talent in the business, and we have the right leader,” said Greg Ashlock, CEO of the Multi-Platform Group for iHeartMedia. “Kevin’s experience in broadcast, digital, experiential, podcast and sports in both national and local roles have prepared him to excel in this position and build on the momentum and unique scale and assets of iHeart.”

“I am excited to harness the power of iHeartMedia Sports for clients, partners, and our local markets while expanding our offerings and leading position throughout the sports industry, building on our unique position in both audio and sports,” said LeGrett.

Prior to his current role as Division President and President of the L.A. Region for iHeartMedia, LeGrett served as Division President and Executive Vice President of Operations for the iHeartMedia Markets Group overseeing Los Angeles, Phoenix, San Diego, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, Austin and Washington, D.C., and with responsibility for the political strategy for the company as well. He is a 20+ year media veteran who joined iHeartMedia in 2010.

Also announced today, Alexis Ginas has been named President of the iHeartMedia Los Angeles Region. LeGrett is transitioning his duties as head of the Los Angeles Region to Ginas, but will continue as Division President for the iHeartMedia Markets Group and adds the new responsibilities as the President of iHeartMedia Sports.

Curtis delves into the many phases of friendship through unscripted conversations with new and old friends

Fans can listen to the official trailer now

NEW YORK – July 8, 2021 – iHeartMedia, the No. 1 podcast publisher globally, today announced “Good Friend,” a new weekly iHeartRadio Original Podcast hosted by award-winning actress and New York Times best-selling children's book author, Jamie Lee Curtis. “Good Friend”, which premieres July 15 will talk about the good, the bad and the ugly of friendships through both intimate and candid unscripted conversations. Listeners can hear the official audio trailer now on iHeartRadio and everywhere podcasts are heard.

Throughout the 15-episode season, Curtis has unscripted, relatable conversations with celebrity friends and public figures such as Senator Amy Klobuchar, Michelle Williams, Robin Wright, Niecy Nash and Jessica Betts, Michelle Yeoh and Maria Shriver, among others, about conflict resolution, making new friends and keeping friendships alive during difficult times like the pandemic.  On the premiere episode of Good Friend, Jamie will sit down with her new friend Lena Dunham. They will talk about the intense friendships that inspired the show Girls, how to know when it’s time to move on from a friend group and how knowing yourself better can help you become a good friend.

“During this incredible time, friendships have been tested and while many have withstood this forced time apart and even became stronger, others have fallen away. I’m thrilled to launch ‘Good Friend’ and share candid conversations that will dive into the truth behind friendships and relationships,” said Curtis. “Through this podcast, iHeartRadio has given me the opportunity, with humor, pathos, tears and spilled secrets, to explore dialogues with friends, new and old, and discover what it means to be a truly good friend, as well as how to let them go and how to keep them close.”

“We’re delighted to welcome ‘Good Friend’ to iHeartRadio and to help listeners navigate the sometimes-challenging world of friendships,” said Will Pearson, Chief Operating Officer for the iHeartPodcast Network. “Jamie brings a fantastic energy, intellect and sense of humor to these conversations with such a remarkable lineup of guests. They definitely make you think about the many incredible aspects of real friendship. It’s a beautiful podcast and we’re thrilled to call Jamie our friend and newest member of the iHeartPodcast family.”

“Good Friend” is distributed by the iHeartPodcast Network. Listeners can visit iHeart.com/apps to download iHeartRadio and listen to the official trailer today on their favorite device. New episodes post each Thursday with episode one set to debut July 15.

“Essential Voices with Wilmer Valderrama” and “Exactly Amara” headline the new content offerings for the new Latinx-focused podcast network

NEW YORK – July 7, 2021 – iHeartMedia, the No. 1 podcast publisher globally, today announced four new shows launching in July from My Cultura, iHeartMedia’s new podcast network dedicated to elevating Latinx voices and creators, while also sharing the Latinx experience with millions of listeners. The network’s initial lineup will include “Essential Voices with Wilmer Valderrama,” “Exactly Amara,” “Transportista” (published in both English and Spanish) and “Life As a Gringo.” With a driven commitment to the creation of a platform that helps amplify the Latinx community, Coca-Cola, State Farm and Walgreens will be My Cultura’s inaugural sponsors, building connectivity amongst this growing audience. All of the new podcast series will be available on iHeartRadio and everywhere podcasts are heard. 

This lineup officially kicks off the My Cultura podcast network which is set to release 30 total shows in its first year. My Cultura was announced last month with “In the Heights: El Sueñito,” a special limited podcast series with Lin-Manuel Miranda and hosted by Eva Longoria. Additionally, My Cultura’s future podcast series will span a variety of genres including pop culture, music, comedy, mental health, finance, news and more. 

“The wait is over. We’re thrilled to announce that these new shows are joining iHeartMedia’s My Cultura and to showcase the incredible storytelling talents and diverse perspectives of Latinx creators,” said Gisselle Bances, Lead Executive Producer for iHeartMedia’s My Cultura. “From Amara La Negra’s authentic perspective on being Afro-Latina in ‘Exactly Amara’ to investigating the world of cartels in ‘Transportista’ to amplifying the voices of the world’s essential workers in ‘Essential Voices,’ and much more, this new slate of My Cultura shows promises to entertain, educate and inspire.”

My Cultura podcasts being released this month include: 

July 8

“Exactly Amara” -- A weekly talk-show style podcast hosted by reality star, model and singer Amara La Negra alongside co-host Stevey Newnez. The pair will get personal on just about everything and will discuss dating, sex, relationships, social media, plastic surgery, body positivity and everything in between. In each episode, Amara will add her Spanglish sazón, getting raw and real with topics that hit close to home. Listen to the official trailer now here. 

July 14

“Transportista” -- This weekly limited-series podcast opens the door into a hidden world of drug trafficking and its ties to political power. Told from a North Carolina Federal Prison via a smuggled cell phone, the show explores the story of a now-incarcerated head of transportation for some of the world’s most dangerous drug lords in Latin America. Brought to life in both English and Spanish, the podcast will shine a light on the life of a man who had access to the top cartels’ women, wealth and supply chain, until it all came to a screeching halt. Buckle up, the plane is taking off and El Transportista is talking about it all. Listeners can hear the official trailer in English or Spanish.

July 20

“Life as a Gringo”-- Hosted by The Breakfast Club and Z100’s Dramos, this podcast shares the perspective and voices of American-born Latinos who live their lives existing in a gray area: those who are looked at as a gringo by their family in their native land while being constantly reminded that their house smelled different or their parents’ music was “weird” by people they grew up with in the states. This is life as heard from the voice of a “gringo”. New episodes will post every Tuesday and Thursday.

July 27

“Essential Voices with Wilmer Valderrama” - Hosted by actor, producer and activist Wilmer Valderrama(NCIS, That ‘70s Show), this weekly podcast will share intimate conversations with people on the frontlines of food service, transportation, child-care and other systems where workers’ voices are often overlooked. While COVID-19 introduced many people to the phrase “essential workers,” this group of people existed far before the pandemic and will continue to play a vital role in society long after it’s over. The show seeks to illustrate the invisible connections between all of us and point us toward strategies for meaningful change. 

In addition to the shows announced today, listeners can expect a steady stream of new podcasts launching each month this year with My Cultura, which will be distributed through the iHeartPodcast Network. 

A Co-Production with Nomadic Engine & Salmira Productions, “Aftershock” Premieres July 14

Listen to the official trailer here

NEW YORK – June 30, 2021 – iHeartMedia, the No. 1 podcast publisher globally according to Podtrac, announced today a new scripted post-apocalyptic podcast, “Aftershock,” co-produced with Nomadic Engine and Salmira Productions, and starring Sarah Wayne Callies (Prison Break, The Walking Dead, Colony), David Harbour (Black Widow, No Sudden Move, Stranger Things) and Jeffrey Dean Morgan (The Walking Dead, Watchmen, Supernatural). In addition to her leading role, Callies also directed the series as well as co-created “Aftershock” with her Nomadic Engine partners, author Patrick Carman (39 Clues, Skeleton Creek) and TV/Film Producer Ben Haber (The Smurfs Movies, Across The Universe), and wrote with Carman. “Aftershock” will be available on iHeartRadio and all major podcast platforms beginning July 14. Listeners can hear the official trailer now.

“I’m an island girl, raised in Hawai’i, and this is my story about what it might look like if a new island appeared - who’d go there and why, what they might be running from, what they might be drawn to? At its heart, it’s a story about forgiveness and second chances,” said Callies. “It’s been wild, making ‘Aftershock’ - recording in the pandemic - everyone gave their whole hearts, it was amazing. That kind of support from actors I’ve worked with my whole career - to come in for basically no money and do such brilliant work to support this thing, that means so much to me, it was deeply moving.  ‘Aftershock’ is the first thing I’ve written, directed, produced and starred in, and I’m so grateful to this cast - and the entire creative team from iHeartRadio to Salmira and all of the producers - for bringing this story to life.”

“Aftershock” takes place in the wake of the largest earthquake in US history. Los Angeles lies in ruins, hundreds of thousands of people are dead or unaccounted for, and a mysterious island has risen up in the quake just off the coast of the city. Cassie Wallace (Sarah Wayne Callies) and Wayne Sharpe (David Harbour) embark on the dangerous journey to the island to save her daughter who is stranded there - but they are not alone. Doomsday preppers, indigenous activists and a utopian cult all arrive to claim their piece of the new island – and then people start dying. Told through flashbacks and unreliable narrators during an investigation weeks after the quake, “Aftershock” starts as a series of simple questions and, as we realize no one on the island is who they seem to be, it ends as a national emergency.

"‘Aftershock’ is a labor of love,” said Morgan. “Recording during a pandemic gave us unexpected obstacles but by getting creative and bringing together old friends, we were able to produce an exciting and unique podcast filled with unexpected turns. It was a real pleasure supporting Sarah in this creative adventure and I can’t wait for folks to give it a listen."

The star-studded cast also includes Tati Gabrielle (Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, The 100), Janel Parrish (Pretty Little Liars, To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before), Russell Hornsby (The Hate U Give, Fences), Rockmond Dunbar (Prison Break, Sons of Anarchy), Tovah Feldshuh (Lady in the Water, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend), Bethany Joy Lenz (One Tree Hill, Dexter), Michael O’Neill (Dallas Buyers Club, Transformers, Seabiscuit), Austin Amelio (The Walking Dead), and EJ Bonilla (Gemini Man, The Long Road Home, The Old Man).

The 10-part series will debut with two episodes on July 14, 2021, with one new episode posting each week until the exhilarating conclusion. Following the last episode, fans will enjoy a special roundtable discussion episode with the cast on September 15.

The series is executive produced by Ben Haber, Mark Ramsey, Sarah Wayne Callies & Patrick Carman along with Salman Al-Rashid, Sam Frohman & Simmons Frazier for Salmira Productions; David Harbour; Jeffrey Dean Morgan; Paul Anderson & Nick Panella for Workhouse Media; and Noel Brown for iHeartRadio. Sound Design, Scoring & Mix is by Ambie Nominated Jeff Schmidt (Dr. Death, Dirty John). “Aftershock” is distributed by the iHeartPodcast Network.

Eleven Part Long-Form Investigative Series on Mysterious Death of Ferguson Protestor

NowThis’ First Foray into Social Justice-Focused True Crime Content

NEW YORK – June 14, 2021 – NowThis, the no.1 most-watched mobile news brand globally [Tubular Labs, June 2020], announced the release of its second long-form podcast series, produced with podcasting start-up Double Asterisk and iHeartMedia. After the Uprising is an 11-part investigation into the mysterious death of Danyé Jones, a prominent activist in Ferguson, MO, also produced in association with non-fiction media company True Stories. The first episode launches on June 15, with new episodes airing every Tuesday on iHeartRadio and available everywhere podcasts are heard.

“NowThis is thrilled to deepen its partnership with iHeartRadio and deliver another compelling podcast series that breaks down some of the most pressing and relevant issues of the day,” said NowThis Chief Content Officer Tina Exarhos. “NowThis is committed to covering important social justice stories, and we look forward to bringing audiences this powerful story about one family’s fight for justice and accountability in the birthplace of the Black Lives Matter movement.”

When 24-year-old activist Danyé Jones was found dead in 2018, police declared it a suicide. But his Ferguson frontline activist mother Melissa grabbed headlines with her viral post alleging her son had in fact died by lynching. Who was right? Starting only six weeks after Danyé died, journalists John Duffy and Ray Nowosielski spent two and a half years working with his mother, family members, close friends and many in the activist community to follow the trail and find out what exactly happened to him. After the Uprising is the result, an investigative podcast series that documents every shocking twist and turn in the investigation. The take-away: almost seven years after the Black Lives Matter movement was launched from this community, something is still terribly wrong in North County.

After the Uprising marks the continued expansion of NowThis’ podcast offerings, following the successful political biography show Who Is?, short-form daily news podcast NowThis Brief, and the family-oriented news podcast NowThis Kids. With high-profile guests like former Senator Harry Reid, former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams, and the New Yorker’s Jane Mayer, Who Is? (also in partnership with iHeartMedia) is regularly featured on Apple and Spotify politics and civic-engagement focused playlists, geared towards informing audiences on the power players and issues driving our national political discourse. The long-form political biography podcast has racked up millions of downloads and has been nominated for Digiday’s Best Podcast of the Year.

After the Uprising is distributed by the iHeartPodcast Network. Listen to After the Uprising on iHeartRadio and follow the podcast to be alerted when new episodes are available.

About NowThis

NowThis is the #1 mobile news brand in the U.S. [Nielsen DCR, June 2020]. They have a singular mission: to make news engaging and relevant for young adults by humanizing our complicated world. By providing insightful context from a youth perspective, NowThis has revolutionized how news is consumed today. Launched in 2012, NowThis’ entertaining, inspiring and informative videos are created for a mobile generation and receive over 2.6 billion monthly views [platform analytics, June 2020]. In December 2016, NowThis joined forces with Thrillist, The Dodo and Seeker to form Group Nine Media -- the #1 video publisher on mobile in the U.S. [Nielsen DCR, June 2020].

About Double Asterisk

Double Asterisk is the midwest-based investigative media company of John Duffy and Ray Nowosielski. Duffy’s Who Is Rich Blee? was an early investigative true crime podcast that garnered headlines in 2011 for exposing an alleged human rights abuser still working in the CIA, detailed in his 2018 book The Watchdogs Didn’t Bark. Nowosielski directed on the Emmy-nom 3rd season of VICE on HBO and was nominated for a News & Documentary Emmy for Tricky Dick & the Man in Black, a Netflix Original about Johnny Cash, for which he was a producer. Rounding out the team is producer Dave Cassidy, a Peabody winner and multi-Emmy nominee.