Scoop: Paramount in talks with Katie Miller for podcast deal as it eyes expansion
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Paramount is evaluating a potential distribution deal with Katie Miller as it considers expanding its podcast business beyond creative and more into distribution and monetization, sources told Axios.
Why it matters: More entertainment giants are eyeing podcasts as a way to build up their video intellectual property and find new audiences.
Zoom in: In addition to Miller, Paramount has had discussions with a number of podcasters and platforms including the Paragon Collective, the home for Whitney Cummings and DL Hughley, and Jubilee Media.
- Paramount is expected to evaluate a small test group in the coming months to support the new business line.
- It is not clear if the company will be producing shows or just distributing them, as it considers various business options — including other monetization strategies given its broader platform.
- Paramount and Miller did not comment. Paragon and Jubilee did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Catch up quick: Paramount currently produces podcasts in news, sports, lifestyles and entertainment, but the new effort would likely be a more video-centric approach.
- Current shows include "Deep Waters," the official UFC podcast; "On Fire: The Official Survivor Podcast," "48 Hours," "The Drew Barrymore Show," among dozens of others.
The big picture: The conversations with Miller suggest Paramount is looking to bring in diverse voices, including conservatives.
- Miller, an official in President Trump's first administration, launched her podcast last August with an interview with Vice President JD Vance, and will post her 40th episode next week.
- Miller's podcast has attracted top cultural, political and business leaders, including United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby, UFC CEO Dana White, Tesla CEO Elon Musk and others. Her interview with Musk has nearly 1 million views on YouTube.
Editor's note: This story was updated with additional details.
