Building a Podcast Network Around Creators, Not Just Content

What does it really look like to build a podcast network where creators are central, not just featured? This episode explores how a creator-first philosophy shapes everything from formats to hiring—and why betting on people instead of just shows might be the overlooked lever for genuine audience connection. Joining are Andrew Kenward (president and COO, formerly an agent at WME) and Paige Hymson (EVP of Podcasts, with a background in traditional audio journalism), each bringing perspectives from both legacy media and new digital models.Andrew draws on his agency experience and perspective as a founder, while Paige offers hands-on insights from years in newsroom-style podcasting. Together, they’re building a network with eight long-form audio/video series across sports and comedy, developed around a tightly defined audience and a collaborative, cross-platform approach.Listen for:07:40 Origin of Almost Friday Media14:16 Importance of Visual Elements21:03 Collaborating with talent and creators22:30 Organizing YouTube content like TV studios28:20 Talent investment versus network deals38:33 Strategic planning for live events42:55 Value of host read ads in video53:13 Reviewing audience engagement regularly01:01:33 Innovative media strategy and formatGUESTS: ANDREW KENWARD, PRESIDENT | COOWebsite | LinkedInPAIGE HYMSON, EVP TALK CONTENT (SPORTS AND PODCASTS)LinkedInAndrew’s Podcast rec: Prof G Markets | Book Leonardo da Vinci by Walter IsaacsonPaige’s Podcast rec: Wisecrack | Book Captain Cook: Exploring the Wide, Wide SeaCONNECT WITH GREG WASSERMAN, HEAD OF RELATIONSHIPS FOR RSS.COMWebsite | LinkedInGreg’s book rec: Return on Courage by Ryan BermanSystems, Sponsors, and Partners:Hosted with RSS.com Podcast HostingProduced by Stories & StrategiesContent Repurposed with CastmagicPodcast Project Management with Northflow