The Town with Matthew Belloni Netflix Adds Podcasts and Makes a Deal With AMC Theatres. Why?
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Oct 20, 2025 
Lucas Shaw, a media reporter at Bloomberg specializing in streaming trends, joins to unpack Netflix's new strategy of venturing into podcasts. They delve into the significance of Netflix's deal with Spotify for video podcasts and whether viewers will embrace this format. The discussion shifts to Netflix's collaboration with AMC, exploring implications for theatrical releases and the potential for more limited runs. Shaw shares insights on the risks of diluting Netflix’s brand with podcasts and predicts future moves into topical programming.
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Netflix Tests Companion Viewing With Podcasts
- Netflix is experimenting by adding video podcasts from Spotify/The Ringer to capture daytime and companion viewing.
- The move targets YouTube-like habitual watching with low-cost, topical content to boost engagement.
Experiment-First Growth Strategy
- Netflix treats new categories as experiments and scales them if successful, or pulls back if they fail.
- They started small with each format (stand-up, games, sports) and flood the market only after success.
Pair Cheap Shows With Related Hits
- Use low-cost, shoulder programming tied to hits to increase engagement without huge rights fees.
- Pair topical podcasts with related Netflix content to capture viewers after they finish a show or sports doc.