Emmis Invests in Sound That Brands Podcast Producer

RADIO ONLINE | Thursday, June 20, 2019

Emmis Communications

Sound That Brands, the Los Angeles-based podcasting studio specializing in branded audio content for national advertisers, has announced that Emmis Communications would provide a round of funding that will allow rapid expansion. Major brands like Trader Joes, Facebook, Smead, Tindr, General Electric and McAfee have recently produced branded podcasts.

"At Sound That Brands, our motto is 'Be the content, not the interruption,'" said Sound That Brands CEO Dave Beasing. "With Emmis support, well grow quickly, producing audio that is not only entertaining and informative, but builds brand loyalty."

"We've monitored the early stages of global brands telling audio stories through branded podcasts that dramatically enhances loyalty and preference," added Emmis Chairman and CEO Jeff Smulyan. "Sound that Brands has already become a leader in branded podcasting and is uniquely positioned to work with marquee brands to build episodes that make you laugh, feel and think in a way that reinforces the brand. Dave is a great audio storyteller, and we look forward to helping him accelerate Sound that Brands growth."

According to survey data released by Edison Research (April 2019), podcast listenership is booming. 32% of Americans aged 12 and older say they have listened to a podcast in the past month. Of those, 54% say they are more likely to consider the brands they hear advertised on podcasts.

Sound That Brands is also seeking talent for several key roles, including VP/Revenue and Brand Partnerships. Former KPWR-FM Los Angeles SVP/GM Val Maki is heading the search. Interested parties should apply confidentially on the company's website at soundthatbrands.com.