The Obamas head to Audible - The Verge

The former first couple have signed a multi-year, first-look deal with Amazon’s Audible after parting ways with Spotify.

Well, now we know where the Obamas are heading after their split with Spotify. I had a whole fancy intro before getting the news, but this is about as hot as Hot Pod gets, so let’s get into it.

Obamas take their podcasts to Audible after leaving Spotify

Amazon’s Audible and the Obamas’ production company Higher Ground announced a multi-year first-look deal on Tuesday, ending the speculation of where the former first couple would take their podcasts after their deal with Spotify ends in several months.

It’s a big get for Audible, which is better known for audiobooks than podcasts even as it ramps up the development deals. It is also a curious choice for the Obamas, who were reported to be frustrated by the limitations that came with making shows like The Michelle Obama Podcast and Renegades: Born in the USA for Spotify that had months-long exclusivity windows. The split was apparently mutual, as Spotify did not make an offer to extend their contract.

“At Higher Ground, we have always sought to lift up voices that deserve to be heard — and Audible is invested in realizing that vision alongside us,” said President Obama in a statement.

https://www.theverge.com/2022/6/21/23177298/obamas-audible-amazon-spotify

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