iHeartMedia

Slate includes “The MLK Tapes,” next installment in the Monster series and first foray into weekly podcasts, including new project from host Payne Lindsey

“Sworn” returned with two-episode premiere, covering topics including racial bias in the justice system, featuring the case of Georgia's first exoneree, Calvin Johnson

(ATLANTA and NEW YORK -- July 20, 2020) -- Award-winning content creation company Tenderfoot TV, and iHeartMedia, the No. 1 commercial podcast publisher globally, will deepen their relationship and create a slate of nine new iHeartRadio Original Podcasts to air beginning today through 2022. The upcoming podcast slate will focus on limited series as well as several weekly shows, a new strategy for Tenderfoot TV, who has garnered over 500 million downloads for its true crime hits since the company’s launch in 2016.

“iHeart has been an essential partner for Tenderfoot TV over the last several years. It was important to both of us that our next projects together explored important issues and brought new formats to the table, while still providing the storytelling experience our listeners expect,” said Donald Albright, president of Tenderfoot TV. “With the addition of real time, weekly formats, we’re able to amplify more stories than ever before, while sticking to our commitment of bringing forth real change in cases that have either been ignored or forgotten.”

The new collaboration will kick off with the second season of “Sworn,” Tenderfoot TV’s popular criminal justice system podcast that exposes the untold stories and hard truths behind major cases. The newest episode will focus on racial bias in the criminal justice system and explore the case of Georgia's first exoneree, Calvin Johnson, who served 16 years in federal prison for a crime he did not commit. “Sworn” season two is available today on iHeartRadio and everywhere podcasts are heard. Fans can listen here now.

Additionally, new investigative series podcasts for the slate will include “The MLK Tapes,” produced in partnership with author Bill Klaber, co-creator of “The RFK Tapes,” set to premiere January 2021; and the next Installment of the Monster podcast series, which has over 100 million downloads with the success of “Atlanta Monster” followed by “Monster: The Zodiac Killer,” “Monster Presents: Insomniac” and “Monster: D.C. Sniper,” set to debut early next year.

As part of the slate, Tenderfoot TV will also release their first set of weekly podcasts co-produced by iHeartRadio. Tenderfoot TV co-founder and popular host of “Up and Vanished,” “Atlanta Monster” and “Radio Rental,” Payne Lindsey, will host and executive produce a new series that will cover a different case each episode. The slate will also include an additional weekly series in 2021, with details forthcoming.

“In Tenderfoot TV, Donald Albright and Payne Lindsey have built one of the most innovative podcast studios out there – especially in the true crime space,” said Conal Byrne, President of the iHeartPodcast Network. “iHeart and Tenderfoot have been in partnership for a long time together – from ‘Atlanta Monster’ to ‘Zodiac Killer’ to ‘DC Sniper.’ We here at iHeart want to support creators like Tenderfoot however we can – and that means doubling down on a collaborative slate of incredible, new, groundbreaking shows, to redefine the true crime genre yet again.”

The slate will be distributed by the iHeartPodcast Network which is home to more than 750 original podcasts with over 215 million downloads each month. iHeartRadio Original Podcasts span every category from business, sports, spirituality and technology to entertainment, family, comedy and true crime – and everything in between – making iHeartRadio the largest publisher of podcast content in the world. These shows are distributed on all major podcast platforms including the iHeartRadio app, which additionally distributes more than 320,000 shows.

About Tenderfoot TV

Founded by Atlanta director and independent filmmaker, Payne Lindsey, and music industry veteran, Donald Albright, Tenderfoot TV is a hub for creators and storytellers. The company launched in August 2016 with the release of the viral true crime podcast, “Up and Vanished.” It has since created additional breakthrough podcasts including the critically acclaimed “Atlanta Monster” as well as the true crime hits “To Live and Die in LA”, and “Culpable.” Tenderfoot is also developing multiple projects for TV and film, but podcasts remain the company’s primary focus, having amassed over 500 million total downloads in just 3 years. Tenderfoot strives to tell compelling and important stories. No rules. No restrictions.

Founding Partners Include Bank of America, CVS Health, GEICO, Lowe’s, McDonald’s USA, Sony, 23andMe and Verizon 

BIN Will Be Distributed Nationally Through the iHeartRadio App; Accessible via Multiple Connected Platforms; and Available Locally Over Dedicated All-News AM/FM Broadcast Stations, As Well As Providing the News Service for iHeartMedia’s 91 Hip Hop, R&B and Gospel Music Stations Across the Country. 

Tony Coles Named President of BIN: Black Information Network

NEW YORK, N.Y. – June 30, 2020 – Today marks the launch of BIN: Black Information Network, the first and only 24/7 national and local all news audio service dedicated to providing an objective, accurate and trusted source of continual news coverage with a Black voice and perspective.  BIN is focused on service to the Black community and providing an information window for those outside the community to help foster communication, accountability and a deeper understanding.

BIN will leverage the resources, assets and financial support of iHeartMedia, and fills the void for a 24/7 well-distributed all-news audio service for the Black community. A study of Black listeners found that 86% believe a service like BIN is necessary and are likely to use it as an important news source, and 83% think BIN provides a key service and important information they can’t get on radio or TV today.  The study also shows that the BIN concept is equally strong among both the 18-34 year old and 35-54 year old segments of the Black community. 

Instead of traditional ad supported media, BIN is enabled by the support of National Founding Partners who share and support the mission of BIN: Black Information Network.  These partners are Bank of America, CVS Health, GEICO, Lowe’s, McDonald’s USA, Sony, 23andMe and Verizon.  

BIN will be distributed nationally through the iHeartRadio app and accessible via mobile, smart speakers, smart TVs and other connected platforms, and on dedicated all-news local AM/FM broadcast radio stations providing local news, weather traffic and sports in addition to national news -- all focused on the Black community and from the Black perspective -- in markets including Atlanta, Augusta, Charlotte, Cleveland, Columbus, GA, Detroit, Greenville, Macon, Minneapolis, Nashville, New Orleans, Norfolk, Riverside, San Francisco and Seattle, with additional local markets being added over the next 60 days. 

BIN will also provide the news service for iHeartMedia’s 91 Hip Hop, R&B and Gospel stations across the country, including Power 105.1 in New York, Real 92.3 in Los Angeles, WDAS and Power 99 in Philadelphia, WGCI and WVAZ in Chicago, WJLB in Detroit, The Beat in Houston, The Beat in Miami, WQUE in New Orleans, KMEL in San Francisco and more.  

BIN will be a standalone business unit within iHeartMedia, and its executives and talent will reflect the community they serve. The business will be enabled and supported by the full resources of iHeartMedia, including shared use of technology; data and insights; marketing; digital services; monetization; and corporate resources, including Legal, HR and Finance.  

Because iHeartMedia’s broadcast assets alone currently reach 93% of Black Americans – more than any other media outlet, including local and national TV -- BIN’s news service will gain immediate brand awareness and audience credibility through respected and successful Black audience-targeted music stations.  BIN will also be amplified through iHeartMedia’s 200 million-plus social footprint. 

iHeartMedia has a unique news infrastructure that can be utilized by BIN to provide support as needed.  iHeartMedia has more news reporters located in more places than any other audio news organization, and each year its local news operations are the recipients of some of the most prestigious awards in broadcasting. In addition to its local news operations, iHeartMedia’s 24/7 News Source newswire service provides text, audio and breaking news to over 1,000 stations in the United States and Canada.

BIN’s unique partner supported business model is tailored to its mission of providing comprehensive, accurate and trusted information and news. The national Founding Partners of BIN: Black Information Network will support building this new platform for Black journalism and trusted news, and this partnership support will enable BIN’s focus to be on providing a reliable, responsible and responsive news service to the Black community without the daily pressure of ratings.  

Founding Partners will be able to deliver important messages to BIN’s audiences and serve as a platform for philanthropic and community outreach to build brand connection and support the Black community, as well as use it for advertising messages as needed.   

Tony Coles will be President of BIN: Black Information Network.  Coles, who also serves as Division President of the iHeartMedia Markets Group, has more than 35 years’ experience in the radio industry, from on-air to programming and management, with a strong record of success and team-building.  He began his career in Ft. Wayne, IN, as a programmer and in Zanesville, OH as an on-air personality, and has since served as National Hot AC Brand Manager; Senior Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia Chicago; and most recently as Executive Vice President of Programming for the company’s West Region.  As Division President, Coles oversees the complete P&L for 21 iHeart markets across America. 

Tanita Myers will be Director of News Operations for BIN:  Black Information Network.  Myers is a seasoned network and local Producer, Broadcaster and News Anchor with 15 years’ experience at Reach Media. She was formerly Director of Operations for The Tom Joyner Morning Show; Executive Producer of Rickey Smiley Morning Show; and a reporter in News, Traffic and Weather for various major market stations.

BIN: Black Information Network will also have an Advisory Board consisting of leaders of the community from both inside the company and externally who will bring their unique and important perspectives as an ongoing resource to the business.

In addition, Clear Channel Outdoor Americas (CCOA) will be a national marketing partner.  

“BIN: Black Information Network will fill a void by providing continual news and objective information with full focus on the Black community,” said Coles. “We began developing our 24/7 Black news source last year, and events of the last few weeks, especially the senseless and tragic death of George Floyd, highlighted the need for this network. Now is the time for our voice to be heard, and I could not be more proud of our work and the team we are assembling at BIN.”

“We are pleased and proud to support the launch of BIN: Black Information Network by contributing resources that will have the greatest impact – our reach, our multiple platforms, our technology infrastructure and our broad, in-depth relationships with consumers,” said Bob Pittman, Chairman and CEO of iHeartMedia.  “The commitment to service, and the immediate need we saw for a news and information destination for the Black community, accelerated the launch of BIN: Black Information Network to serve this community in an important new way.  We are honored to be joined by some of the most important companies in the world that are also committed to this mission.” 

Selections of BIN’s broadcast radio content will also be distributed every day as podcasts across iHeartRadio’s podcast network, now the largest in the world. A selection of iHeartRadio’s Black culture podcasts will also be distributed and amplified on BIN’s broadcast radio programming, and a new daily BIN podcast will launch shortly, providing 10-20 minutes of on-demand daily news and culture analysis uniquely for the Black community.

BIN is actively hiring for various positions.  For information on these positions, candidates can visit www.iHeartMediaCareers.com.  For more information about BIN: Black Information Network, please visit www.BINNews.com.

About BIN:  Black Information Network

BIN: Black Information Network is the first and only 24/7 national and local all-news audio service dedicated to providing an objective, accurate and trusted source of continual news coverage with a Black voice and perspective.  BIN is enabled by the resources, assets and financial support of iHeartMedia and the support of its Founding Partners:  Bank of America, CVS Health, GEICO, Lowe’s, McDonald’s USA, Sony, 23andMe and Verizon.  BIN is focused on service to the Black community and providing an information window for those outside the community to help foster communication, accountability and deeper understanding.  

BIN: Black Information Network is distributed nationally through the iHeartRadio app and accessible via mobile, smart speakers, smart TVs and other connected platforms, and on dedicated all-news local broadcast AM/FM radio stations.  BIN also provides the news service for iHeartMedia’s 91 Hip Hop, R&B and Gospel stations across the country.  Please visit www.BINNews.com for more information.

Adam Lambert, Ben Platt, Big Freedia, Katy Perry, Kim Petras, Melissa Etheridge, Sia, Ricky Martin, Carla Morrison and More Among All-Star Performances

John Cameron Mitchell, Neil Patrick Harris, Darren Criss and Andrew Rannells Unite for a Special Rendition of “Wig in a Box” to Mark the 20^th Anniversary of “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” 

With Notable Appearances by Billy Porter, Bebe Rexha, Cara Delevingne, Ciara, Hayley Kiyoko, Matt Bomer, Nico Tortorella, Peppermint, Tituss Burgess and More

P&G and iHeartMedia invited people everywhere to join “Can’t Cancel Pride: A COVID-19 Relief Benefit for the LGBTQ+ Community,” a virtual relief benefit designed to help raise visibility and funds for LGBTQ+ communities most impacted by COVID-19. Hosted by Elvis Duran and Laverne Cox, the one-hour benefit special brought together today’s biggest names in culture and entertainment and included performances from Adam Lambert, Ben Platt, Big Freedia with Tank and the Bangas, Katy Perry, Kim Petras, Melissa Etheridge, Sia, Ricky Martin and Carla Morrison, as well as John Cameron Mitchell, Neil Patrick Harris, Darren Criss, Andrew Rannells and more – demonstrating that while in-person Pride events were interrupted around the world, nothing can cancel the heart of Pride and the spirit the LGBTQ+ equality movement embodies.

In addition to music, Can’t Cancel Pride included special appearances from Billy Porter, Bebe Rexha, Cara Delevingne, Ciara, Dan Levy, Hayley Kiyoko, Kermit The Frog, Lena Waithe, Matt Bomer, Nico Tortorella, Peppermint, Tituss Burgess and more, with support from brands including Bounty®, Charmin®, Dawn®, Downy®, Jared®, Pantene® and Tide® to drive LGBTQ+ visibility, and build support for the millions of Americans unable to take part in live Pride events across the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Produced by iHeartMedia and P&G, the benefit streamed on Hulu, iHeartRadio’s Facebook and Instagram pages and iHeartRadio’s PrideRadio.com; and broadcasted on iHeartMedia stations nationwide and on the iHeartRadio app on June 25.

Can’t Cancel Pride partnered with The Greater Cincinnati Foundation to administer and distribute financial support raised by the event to LGBTQ+ organizations with a track record of positive impact and support of the LGBTQ+ community, including GLAAD, SAGE, The Trevor Project, the National Black Justice Coalition, CenterLink and OutRight Action International.

The benefit special included these special moments:

• Sia opened “Can’t Cancel Pride” with a special performance of her single, “Together,” featuring notable drag queens Jaida Essence Hall (winner, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 12), Jackie Cox (top 3, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 12), Crystal Methyd (top 3, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” Season 12), and Lady Bunny (legendary drag queen). 
• Billy Porter introduced Adam Lambert’s performance of “Roses.” Lambert performed poolside with his dog Pharaoh on his lap before heading to a disco-themed stage. 
• The benefit featured the trending “Wipe it Down Challenge,” which included notable appearances from celebs such as Dan Levy, Lena Waithe, and iHeartMedia’s Skeery Jones. 
• Ciara introduced the queen of bounce, Big Freedia, and Tank and the Bangas band who performed “Louder” from a Pride float in New Orleans.
• Prior to introducing Melissa Etheridge’s passionate rendition of “Come to My Window,” Bebe Rexha discussed the significance of the color orange, saying: “Gilbert Baker designed the rainbow flag in the ‘70s and orange symbolized healing, just like music heals us all.“ After belting out the iconic song, Melissa Etheridge thanked everyone, saying: “Love you. Be strong. Speak truth. Spread the peace. Choose only love.”
• Before introducing Katy Perry’s performance of her hit single, “Daisies,” Tituss Burgess discussed the yellow stripe on the rainbow flag, saying: “It stands for sunlight and joy. Yes, I said it: joy. And joy can be hard to find right now especially when you got racism and coronavirus co-pandemic’ing out in these streets.”
• Ricky Martin and Carla Morrison performed their duet, “Recuerdo,” which was introduced by Kermit the Frog. Prior to their performance, Martin said: “The love I feel as a father. The love I feel as a husband, as a son. The love for Puerto Rico. The love for my community. And the love for all those incredible, incredibly strong men and women who fought for us, way before us. Who fought for our fights. Today my music, my thoughts, is only for them. Wherever you are, I love you.”
• Matt Bomer introduced Ben Platt who performed “So Will I,” during the benefit special. Prior to his performance, Platt said: “I’m so honored to be part of this celebration today. We would have no queer liberation to speak of, were it not for the queer people of color that came before us, particularly trans women of color. So mostly I am excited to sing to honor them, and everybody on this Pride day.” 
• Kim Petras, who was introduced by Cara Delevingne, performed her latest single, “Malibu,” with her three poodles dyed in colors of the rainbow. 
• The show concluded with a special finale in honor of 50 years of Pride, and in celebration of 20 years of “Hedwig and the Angry Inch.” Stephen Trask and John Cameron Mitchell performed a rendition of “Wig in a Box” alongside Andrew Rannells, Darren Criss, Neil Patrick Harris and more. 

Additional notable quotes include: 

• Laverne Cox: “Our hearts should be filled with joy right now, especially with the recent ruling that protects LGBTQI people from workplace discrimination. And while I'm inspired by the support of the last few weeks, I cannot stand to see one more black or brown cis or trans life lost to brutality, racism, transphobia or homophobia. Black Lives Matter. Black Trans Lives Matter. That’s the spirit of Stonewall that lives ‘til this day.”
• Billy Porter: “It is summertime. Police treat a person of color with force and brutality, leading to protests that change the course of American history. This is the story of 2020. But it’s also the story of 1969, when patrons at the Stonewall Inn, many of them young LGBTQ people of color, refused to accept police brutality as a way of life. Pride began with protest.” 
  • Porter continued: “For fifty years, we’ve fought to end racism and homophobia, and affirm our rights… To health and safety, equal employment, access to education. To marry the one’s we love. We’ve made our mark in pop culture and found our place in the history books. Some of us have even scored Tonys, Grammys and Emmys. You’re welcome! But LGBTQ people are still fighting for equality, safety and acceptance in the middle of a global pandemic that disproportionately affects marginalized communities.  But nothing can cancel Pride henny!”
  • Porter concluded: “Tonight we lift our rainbow flag high, and the values it represents –
• life, unity, healing, joy, nature, harmony and spirit. Don’t worry children, we’re still gonna dance. And while we do, we affirm our solidarity with our black and brown family fighting for their rights and lives right now, and we ask them to support us. Because no one is free to live the lives we love until all of us are free.”
• Ciara: “A change is gonna come, my friends. It is up to us to be good in the world. Today we include black and brown on the rainbow flag to signify the intersectionality between LGBTQ rights and the fight for racial justice.”
• Cara Delevingne: “Here's to loving who you love and embracing your true self. I wish I learned how to do that when I was 16. I’m so excited to introduce a performer who captures the energy of youth, Pride, creativity, and progress.” 
• Hayley Kiyoko: “Purple is all about spirit and during these challenging times if anything captures the spirit of a bright and unified future, it’s LGBTQ youth. LGBTQ youth and allies are fighting back on all fronts for LGBTQ rights, racial justice, accessibility, gender equity, climate change, and more. They are creating a community on social media, rallying Americans to vote and fighting against discrimination. And they’re not letting COVID stop them. Online, schools and colleges, in the city streets and living rooms across America, they are redefining Pride and reaffirming their commitment to fight for acceptance, equality and justice.” 
• Javier Muñoz: “As we recognize Pride this year during this time of profound pain, I also want to recognize our community for strength and perseverance throughout our fight for equality. And more specifically throughout the HIV/AIDS pandemic, which is very much still not over. Let’s stay committed to compassion and action as we work together to effect the change that we need to create the world we deserve.”
• Peppermint (actress, singer, television personality, drag queen, and activist): “Reflecting on the light blue, light pink and white on the flag representing our trans brothers, sisters and siblings. Please hold in your hearts that many of the LGBTQ folks who fought back at Stonewall were young, trans people of color. Their refusal to go quietly turbo-charged the LGBTQ rights movement for decades. We honor them by persevering today.” 
• Matt Bomer: “That activism was full of fire in the 80s when Larry Kramer and ACT UP forcefully demanded action to fight HIV/AIDS. In losing Larry this year, we lost a warrior, a hero and a friend. His words saved lives. Thank you, Larry.” He continued: “Whether it’s rebelling in the streets, peaceful protests, creative collaborations or the hard work that leads to legislation that protects LGBTQ people, our community works together to gain equality. In the spirit of that harmonious blue nature, we bring you a special song and a tribute to a community working so hard during Pride and this pandemic to support each other...” 
• Elvis Duran: “This is really what Pride’s all about: unity, energy, visibility and of course, love. Moving us all forward. It’s going to be a minute before LGBTQ organizations and services can get back to normal, so we thank you for being so generous tonight.”

Can’t Cancel Pride encouraged viewers to share their special Pride moments on social media using the hashtag #CantCancelPride throughout the month of June.

Additional proud partners of Can’t Cancel Pride included Cadillac, Crest®, Giant Food, Herbal Essences®, Mattel, Mercedes-Benz, Olay®, Pampers®, P&G Shopper Team, Puffs®, Splat Hair Color and This is L.

Executive producers for Can’t Cancel Pride are John Sykes, Tom Poleman and Elvis Duran of iHeartMedia; Casey Patterson for Casey Patterson Entertainment; Alex Coletti for Alex Coletti Productions and Can’t Cancel Pride Co-founder Brent Miller of Procter & Gamble.

The event is supported by a Can’t Cancel Pride advisory committee including Rob Smith, CEO/Founder of The Phluid Project, Robyn Streisand - Luppino, Founder and President of THE MIXX and TITANIUM WORLDWIDE and Olympia Lambert, Client Services Director of THE MIXX.

New weekly podcast to launch this fall from the award-winning producers and correspondents of VICE News

JUNE 24, 2020 - BROOKLYN, NY –  iHeartMedia, the No. 1 commercial podcast publisher globally, and VICE Media Group, the world’s largest independent youth media company,  announced today at the VICE Media Group NewFront presentation “VICE News Reports,” a new weekly investigative series covering critical news subjects from around the world. “VICE News Reports” will be co-produced by iHeartRadio and VICE News. As part of the new partnership, iHeartMedia will have a first-look option to co-produce additional podcasts based on VICE Media Group content. “VICE News Reports” will debut this fall on iHeartRadio and everywhere podcasts are available.

The year-round weekly series will feature in-depth, on-the-ground reportage, tapping into VICE’s extensive global network of diverse, award-winning journalists, offering rare access audio that brings the listener directly into the story unlike any other program. With an immersive, vérité, in the field approach, the half-hour episodes will provide unique reporting on the biggest news stories in the world and delve into underreported events beyond the 24-hour news cycle. 

The series will include a mix of long and short form reports, feature stories, multiple episode series and more, all told in the signature VICE News style. Topics to be covered include exclusive reporting from the frontlines of global conflicts and civil uprisings; a deep dive into the rise of the alt-right in the states and abroad; and a multi-part investigation into the debate about arming teachers in America’s schools. 

“At VICE News we provide a comprehensive look at complex news issues by reporting where others do not, and amplifying voices that are going unheard,” said Jesse Angelo, President, Global News and Entertainment, VICE Media Group. “Audio allows us to go further; the medium lets us dive into the nuance and involve the audience in intimate ways that cannot be achieved with video. We are excited to explore this even more with ‘VICE News Reports’ and iHeartRadio.” 

“With today’s busy schedules, listeners are always looking for engaging content, especially on global critical topics of interest,” said Conal Byrne, President of the iHeartPodcast Network.  “We are excited to launch this new investigative series with VICE, keeping listeners up-to-date on the latest current events, while also uncovering untold truths in today’s tumultuous climate.”

In 2019, VICE expanded its audio operation under the leadership of Kate Osborn, longtime audio veteran and former producer for NPR, BBC, and Rachel Maddow. Replicating its unconventional approach to video storytelling with audio, VICE has produced award-wining and critically acclaimed audio series such as Chapo: Kingpin on Trial, Uncommitted: Iowa 2020, and The Distance: Coronavirus Dispatches. 

“VICE News Reports” is a weekly VICE News and iHeartRadio Original Podcast set to debut this fall. The series will be distributed by the iHeartPodcast Network which is home to more than 750 original podcasts with over 215 million downloads each month. iHeartRadio Original Podcasts span every category from business, sports, spirituality and technology to entertainment, family, comedy and true crime – and everything in between – making iHeartRadio the largest publisher of podcast content in the world. These shows are distributed on all major podcast platforms including the iHeartRadio app, which additionally distributes more than 320,000 shows. 

About VICE Media Group

VICE Media Group is the world’s largest independent youth media company.  Launched in 1994, VICE has offices in 35 cities across the globe with a focus on five key businesses: VICE.com, an award-winning international network of digital content; VICE STUDIOS, a feature film and television production studio; VICE TV, an Emmy-winning international television network; a Peabody award-winning NEWS division with the most Emmy-awarded nightly news broadcast; and VIRTUE, a global, full-service creative agency with 25 offices around the world.  VICE Media Group’s portfolio includes Refinery29, the leading global media and entertainment company focused on women;  PULSE Films, a London-based next-generation production studio with outposts in Los Angeles, New York, Paris and Berlin;  i-D, a global digital and bimonthly magazine defining fashion and contemporary culture; and Garage, a digital platform and biannual publication converging the worlds of art and design.

The iHeartPodcast Network will produce companion podcasts for

HBO Max original and legacy show content

NEW YORK, NY – June 23, 2020 – iHeartRadio, the No. 1 commercial podcast publisher globally, and WarnerMedia Entertainment, the WarnerMedia business unit that includes HBO, HBO Max, TNT, TBS, truTV, Rooster Teeth and Crunchyroll, today announced a partnership to co-produce a slate of companion podcasts for HBO Max’s upcoming catalog of original and legacy shows.

The first podcasts to debut will include companion podcasts for the comedy thriller series “Search Party,” created by Sarah-Violet Bliss, Charles Rogers and Michael Showalter, and sci-fi drama “Raised by Wolves,” directed and executive produced by Ridley Scott. These podcasts, along with the entire slate of co-produced companion podcasts, will be available on HBO Max, iHeartRadio and everywhere podcasts are heard.

The new slate of companion podcasts will play as standalone productions in their own right, but will often center around and help promote HBO Max programming. As part of the deal, iHeartMedia will also get a first-look priority to produce HBO Max companion podcasts during the term of the agreement. Additionally, iHeartMedia and WarnerMedia Entertainment will both commit marketing resources to promote the podcasts and other HBOMax content across the iHeartPodcast Network and other iHeartMedia broadcast and digital platforms. Together, WarnerMedia Entertainment and iHeartMedia may also produce podcasts for WarnerMedia Entertainment’s television networks, TNT, TBS and truTV.

“We look forward to working with iHeartMedia as we continue to find new ways to break ground and create opportunities for our storytellers to do what they do best,” said Kevin Reilly, President, TBS, TNT, and truTV and Chief Content Officer, HBO Max. “Today’s streaming fans are hungry for more content the second they finish an episode of their favorite shows, and podcasts are a great way to keep those fans engaged while also giving our roster of creative talent additional tools to extend the worlds of their shows and stories.”

“We’re beyond thrilled to forge this new partnership with WarnerMedia Entertainment to create an exciting slate of companion podcasts based on the incredible content coming to HBO Max,” said Conal Byrne, President, iHeartPodcast Network. “WarnerMedia Entertainment’s networks and brands have long been a marvel in the entertainment industry, and we’re ecstatic for the opportunity to be a part of their legendary storytelling and to bring this trove of new content to the iHeartPodcast Network.”

About “Search Party”

Primarily set in New York City, “Search Party” follows a group of privileged, self-absorbed twenty-somethings whose search for a long-lost missing friend leads them down a dark and shocking path of no return. The first two seasons of the show are currently available on HBO Max and all episodes of Season 3 will debut on the streamer on June 25.

Click HERE for press assets and additional information on the series.

About “Raised by Wolves”

“Raised by Wolves” centers around two androids, Father and Mother, tasked with raising human children on a mysterious new planet. As the burgeoning colony of humans threatens to be torn apart by religious differences, the androids learn that controlling the beliefs of humans is a treacherous and difficult task.

About HBO Max

HBO Max is WarnerMedia’s direct-to-consumer offering, which debuted May 27, 2020. With 10,000 hours of curated premium content, HBO Max offers powerhouse programming for everyone in the home, bringing together HBO, a robust slate of new original series, key third-party licensed programs and movies, and fan favorites from WarnerMedia’s rich library including motion picture and TV series from Warner Bros., highlights from New Line, and catalog titles from DC, CNN, TNT, TBS, truTV, Turner Classic Movies, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Crunchyroll, Rooster Teeth, Looney Tunes and more.
Website: HBOMax.com

Hosted by Bobby Bones, the backyard music celebration will feature performances from Kane Brown, Lauren Alaina and Old Dominion on July 3

NEW YORK – June 23, 2020 – To celebrate Independence Day, iHeartMedia today announced its all-new television and radio special, “iHeartCountry 4th of July BBQ” and featuring country music artists Kane Brown, Lauren Alaina and Old Dominion performing live from the backyards of their homes. Hosted by Bobby Bones, the celebration invites Americans to tune-in for of an evening of music and storytelling.

The “iHeartCountry 4th of July BBQ” will be broadcast as a television event on Friday, July 3 at 8 p.m. EST/PST (7 p.m. CST) on The CW Network and ​audio broadcast on iHeartCountry stations nationwide and will replay throughout the holiday weekend on CWTV.com and on iHeartCountry stations across America.

Executive producers for “iHeartCountry 4th of July BBQ” are John Sykes and Tom Poleman for iHeartMedia and Joel Gallen for Tenth Planet Productions.

About The CW

THE CW TELEVISION NETWORK launched in 2006 as America’s fifth broadcast network, with programming targeting younger viewers, a demographic highly sought after by advertisers. The CW, a joint venture between Warner Bros. Entertainment and CBS Corporation, broadcasts a six-night, 12-hour primetime lineup, Sunday through Friday. The CW’s primetime programming is also available to stream for free, without authentication, on the ad-supported cwtv.com and The CW app, now available on every major OTT platform. In daytime, The CW broadcasts a Monday through Friday afternoon block, and a three-hour Saturday morning kids block. The CW’s digital network, CW Seed, launched in 2013, and offers original short-form digital content as well as past seasons of fan-favorite television series. For more information about the network and its programming, visit www.cwtvpr.com.

NEW YORK – June 16, 2020 – VladTV, the world leader in hard-hitting interviews with rappers, athletes, actors, politicians and comedians, today announced the launch of “The VladTV Podcast,” a weekly Hip Hop culture show on iHeartRadio. New episodes will be available each Wednesday and are distributed by The iHeartPodcast Network. Listen now here.

“The VladTV Podcast” is hosted by DJ Vlad (Vlad Lyubovny), former DJ and CEO of video and news website VladTV.com, and will feature new hard-hitting interviews with celebrities as well as classic content from VladTV’s archives. The podcast’s first episode features an in-depth interview with legendary comedian DL Hughley. 

“When I launched VladTV 12 years ago, I had one goal: to document the lives of important figures of this era,” said DJ Vlad. “Hundreds of interviews later, that goal is still the same. When I sit down with someone, I’m there to create that person’s greatest and most-watched interview of all time. Not everyone gets a major documentary about their life, but many famous (and infamous) characters have told their life story on VladTV. With our new iHeart partnership, we are thrilled to finally give our millions of fans the ability to experience VladTV interviews on streaming audio platforms.” 

Since VladTV’s initial launch in 2008, it has been regarded as one of the biggest interview platforms in Hip Hop—known for DJ Vlad’s fearless approach to interviewing. Throughout the last few years, DJ Vlad and his team have interviewed top celebrities including Cardi B, DaBaby, Warren Sapp, 21 Savage, Jalen Rose, Lil Baby and many more. Past interviews have gone viral, reaching a total of 3.5 billion views across YouTube and Facebook.

Listen to “The VladTV Podcast” now and follow the podcast on iHeartRadio to be alerted when new episodes are available. 

Three-Part Series Will Feature Performances from Andy Grammer, Aloe Blacc and More, Premiering June 22

Benefit Concerts Will Stream Across iHeartRadio’s YouTube, Facebook Live and Instagram Live

NEW YORK – June 17, 2020 – iHeartMedia and Ally today announced “iHeartRadio Concerts For The Community Presented By Ally” – a virtual concert series benefitting United Way, the worldwide organization that fights for health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community, as well as Musicians On Call, the nation’s leading provider of live music in hospitals, serving individuals in facilities ranging from children’s hospitals to adult facilities, VA hospitals and hospices. The three-part concert series will feature performances from Andy Grammer and Aloe Blacc, with more to be announced. The event will stream on iHeartRadio’s YouTube Channel, Facebook Live and Instagram Live beginning on Monday, June 22 at 8pm EST/5pm PST with Andy Grammer.

In addition to the virtual events, iHeartMedia and Ally are helping to bring the gift of music to dedicated healthcare heroes that have been staffing hospitals nationwide during the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the program, Ally has committed to fund the delivery of up to 5,000 virtual eCards to frontline workers nationwide. Each card will feature an inspiring and uplifting video recorded by Musicians On Call’s volunteer musicians.  The program will encourage listeners to visit a dedicated landing page on the Musicians On Call website to send a personalized e-card and music video to doctors and nurses in their own lives.

As part of the series, each artist will surprise caregivers around the country with a virtual meet & greet and performance as a token of appreciation for their work on the frontlines.

“With the incredible sacrifices the frontline workers make every day for our safety during this pandemic, we’re committed to showing our gratitude while delivering a musical break to their stressful days,” said Musicians On Call President & CEO Pete Griffin. “We’ve witnessed time and again the healing power of music and we are proud to partner with iHeartMedia and Ally to share some joy with the people who need it the most right now. With their support we will be able to bring smiles to the faces of thousands of healthcare workers across the country.”

In addition to supporting United Way Worldwide through Concerts for the Community, Ally is supporting seven local United Way COVID-19 Relief Funds across the country.  Through its partnership with iHeartMedia, Ally will help fund United Way Worldwide’s newly launched Invisible Problems campaign, to help identify and respond to unseen problems in communities that may be contributing to racial and economic inequalities. Listeners will be invited to visit unitedway.ideascale.com to share an unseen problem facing their family, neighborhood or community.

“United Way is addressing many significant, often ‘unseen’ problems emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic, such as food insecurity, access to medical care, and financial support. Many of our communities were already in crisis pre-COVID-19 and now find themselves in deeper crises as new problems surface in this rapidly changing environment. Increased domestic violence, evictions, and loss of support groups are some of the problems emerging in the wake of COVID-19,” said Suzanne McCormick, U.S. President, United Way Worldwide. “Support from Ally and iHeartMedia will help United Way begin to address these unseen issues facing communities across the country.”

“While the country faces multiple crises, many are looking for ways to help those fighting the pandemic and become part of the solution to address racial justice and equity issues,” said Andrea Brimmer, chief marketing and public relations officer at Ally. “Ally believes that music not only has the power to comfort us, but also reinforces our connection to each other, our families, and our communities. We hope these concerts bring people together to help frontline workers and generate much needed attention to hidden issues.”

About Ally Financial Inc.

Ally Financial Inc. (NYSE: ALLY) is a leading digital financial-services company with $182.5 billion in assets as of March 31, 2020. As a customer-centric company with passionate customer service and innovative financial solutions, we are relentlessly focused on "Doing it Right" and being a trusted financial-services provider to our consumer, commercial, and corporate customers. We are one of the largest full-service automotive-finance operations in the country and offer a wide range of financial services and insurance products to automotive dealerships and consumers. Our award-winning online bank (Ally Bank, Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender) offers mortgage lending, personal lending, and a variety of deposit and other banking products, including savings, money-market, and checking accounts, certificates of deposit (CDs), and individual retirement accounts (IRAs). Additionally, we offer securities-brokerage and investment-advisory services through Ally Invest. Our robust corporate finance business offers capital for equity sponsors and middle-market companies.

For more information and disclosures about Ally, visit https://www.ally.com/#disclosures.

For further images and news on Ally, please visit http://media.ally.com.

About United Way

United Way fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in every community. Supported by 2.9 million volunteers, 9.8 million donors worldwide and $4.7 billion raised every year, United Way is the world’s largest privately funded nonprofit. We’re engaged in 1,800 communities across more than 40 countries and territories worldwide to create sustainable solutions to the challenges facing our communities. United Way partners include global, national and local businesses, nonprofits, government, civic and faith-based organizations, along with educators, labor leaders, health providers, senior citizens, students and more. For more information about United Way, please visit UnitedWay.org. Follow us on Twitter: @UnitedWay and #LiveUnited.

About Musicians On Call

Musicians On Call (MOC) is the nation’s leading provider of live music in hospitals. For over 20 years MOC has brought live and recorded music to the bedsides of patients in healthcare facilities ranging from children’s hospitals to adult facilities, VA hospitals and hospices. MOC has a vision of a world filled with the healing power of music and is expanding its Virtual Bedside Performance Program and Music Pharmacy program to serve the populations most in need during this pandemic, including hospital patients who are undergoing visitor restrictions, caregivers spending countless hours on the frontlines and elderly individuals who must remain at home. For more information on how Musicians On Call continues to share music’s healing qualities during this global pandemic, visit www.musiciansoncall.org/covid-19.

NEW YORK, June 16, 2020 – Better Choice Company (OTCQB: BTTR) (“Better Choice”) is pleased to announce a partnership with iHeartMedia to provide support to animal shelters impacted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

As part of the Better Choice Company COVID-19 Relief Initiative, sister brands Halo and TruDog have partnered together with iHeartMedia to donate $100,000 in monetary funds and $100,000 worth of product to shelters nationwide. The Company’s COVID-19 Relief Initiative included shelters in Atlanta, Phoenix, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, Long Island, and San Francisco.

"Donations play a large role for many animal shelters across the US," said Werner von Pein, Better Choice CEO. "Through our partnership with iHeartMedia we hope to fill some of the void left by decreased donations during the COVID-19 pandemic. We believe that each and every animal impacts our lives and ultimately plays a role in improving our collective well-being. This includes sheltered animals, and that’s why we take giving back so seriously—to help nourish and transform shelter pets to help give them their very best chance at a forever home."

“We are delighted to work with Better Choice on the COVID-19 Relief Initiative during this critical time of need,” commented Peter Volynsky, Executive Vice President, Corporate Development and Ventures at iHeartMedia.

About Better Choice Company, Inc.

Better Choice Company Inc. is a rapidly growing animal health and wellness company committed to leading the industry shift toward pet products and services that help dogs and cats live healthier, happier and longer lives. We take an alternative, nutrition-based approach to animal health relative to conventional dog and cat food offerings and position our portfolio of brands to benefit from the mainstream trends of growing pet humanization and consumer focus on health and wellness. We have a demonstrated, multi-decade track record of success selling trusted animal health and wellness products and leverage our established digital footprint to provide pet parents with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their pet’s health. We sell the majority of our dog food, cat food and treats under the Halo and TruDog brands, which are focused, respectively, on providing sustainably sourced kibble and canned food derived from real whole meat, and minimally processed raw-diet dog food and treats. For more information, please visit https://www.betterchoicecompany.com.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “will,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. The Company has based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Some or all of the results anticipated by these forward-looking statements may not be achieved. Further information on the Company’s risk factors is contained in our filings with the SEC. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

New York - June 16, 2020 – This June, P&G and iHeartMedia invite people everywhere to join “Can’t Cancel Pride: A COVID-19 Relief Benefit for the LGBTQ+ Community, ” a virtual relief benefit designed to help raise visibility and funds for LGBTQ+ communities most impacted by COVID-19. Can’t Cancel Pride demonstrates that while in-person Pride events may be interrupted around the world, nothing can cancel the heart of Pride and the spirit the LGBTQ+ equality movement embodies. 

The event will bring together today’s biggest names in culture and entertainment, including Adam Lambert, Big Freedia, Billy Porter, Katy Perry, Kim Petras, Melissa Etheridge, Sia, Ricky Martin and more with support from brands including Bounty®, Charmin®, Dawn®, Downy®, Jared®, Pantene® and Tide® to drive LGBTQ+ visibility, and build support for the millions of Americans unable to take part in live Pride events across the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The celebration will culminate with a one-hour special produced by iHeartMedia and P&G and hosted by leading iHeartMedia on-air personality Elvis Duran and actress and LGBTQ+ advocate Laverne Cox. Can’t Cancel Pride will stream on iHeartRadio’s Facebook and Instagram pages, iHeartRadio’s PrideRadio.com and broadcast on iHeartMedia stations nationwide and on the iHeartRadio app June 25 at 9 p.m. local time.

COVID-19 has not only led to the disruption of many national Pride events, but has also had a damaging effect on fund-raising efforts LGBTQ+ organizations rely on to survive. The LGBTQ+ community is facing loss of livelihoods, lack of access to critical life-affirming healthcare, increased domestic violence and social isolation as many of the organizations they count on for these services are on the brink of survival – potentially setting the movement back decades.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the complex and significant obstacles facing the LGBTQ+ community,” said Marc Pritchard, Chief Brand Officer, Procter & Gamble. “We must continue to fight hate and intolerance while redoubling our efforts to elevate LGBTQ+ visibility and providing support for those in need.  Can’t Cancel Prideis about showing the community that they are not alone and that they are seen and loved, even when stay-at-home orders have closed community centers and support systems that millions of LGBTQ+ people rely on every day.”

“There’s no question COVID-19 has impacted the LGBTQ+ community in a variety of ways, and at this time in the U.S., the struggle for equality and inclusion has never been more important,” said Gayle Troberman, Chief Marketing Officer for iHeartMedia. “Now is a time we need to come together to support the organizations that help bring critical resources to LGBTQ people in need and Can’t Cancel Pride aims to do just that. Like always, Pride will continue to represent the resilience, beauty and strength of the LGBTQ+ community around the nation and the globe.”

“This is a unique opportunity to focus on the heart and soul of the community and the movement we serve across the country, allowing access for everyone,” said Rob Smith, Founder and CEO of The Phluid Project, and a member of the Can’t Cancel Pride advisory committee. “Celebrating virtually affords us the opportunity to touch people in communities across the country and ensure that we are broadly able to showcase the incredible diversity and intersectionality of the LGBTQ+ community.”

Can’t Cancel Pride has partnered with The Greater Cincinnati Foundation to administer and distribute financial support raised by the event to LGBTQ+ organizations with a track record of positive impact and support of the LGBTQ+ community, including GLAAD, SAGE, The Trevor Project, the National Black Justice Coalition, CenterLink and OutRight Action International.

Additional proud partners of Can’t Cancel Pride include Cadillac, Crest®, Giant Food, Herbal Essences®, Mattel, Mercedes-Benz, Olay®, P&G Shopper Team, Puffs®, Splat Hair Color and This is L.

Executive producers for Can’t Cancel Pride are John Sykes, Tom Poleman and Elvis Duran of iHeartMedia, Casey Patterson for Casey Patterson Entertainment, Alex Coletti for Alex Coletti Productions and Can’t Cancel Pride Co-founder Brent Miller of Procter & Gamble.

Can’t Cancel Pride is encouraging viewers to share their special Pride moments on social media using the hashtag #CantCancelPride throughout the month of June. For more information and the latest Can’t Cancel Pride news and to donate visit cantcancelpride.com or text “RAINBOW” to 56512.

The event is supported by a Can’t Cancel Pride advisory committee including Rob Smith CEO/Founder of The Phluid Project, and Robyn Streisand - Luppino, Founder and President of THE MIXX and TITANIUM WORLDWIDE and Olympia Lambert, Client Services Director of THE MIXX.