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 Media

14:16 Importance of Visual Elements

21:03 Collaborating with talent and creators

22:30 Organizing YouTube content like TV studios

28:20 Talent investment versus network deals

38:33 Strategic planning for live events

42:55 Value of host read ads in video

53:13 Reviewing audience engagement regularly

01:01:33 Innovative media strategy and format

GUESTS: ANDREW KENWARD, PRESIDENT | COO

Website | LinkedIn

PAIGE HYMSON, EVP TALK CONTENT (SPORTS AND PODCASTS)

LinkedIn

Andrew’s Podcast rec: Prof G Markets | Book Leonardo da Vinci by Walter Isaacson

Paige’s Podcast rec: Wisecrack | Book Captain Cook: Exploring the Wide, Wide Sea

CONNECT WITH GREG WASSERMAN, HEAD OF RELATIONSHIPS FOR RSS.COM

Website | LinkedIn

Greg’s book rec: Return on Courage by Ryan Berman

Systems, Sponsors, and Partners:

Hosted with RSS.com Podcast Hosting

Produced by Stories & Strategies

Content Repurposed with Castmagic

Podcast Project Management with Northflow

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