Netflix Taps Former Apple Podcasts Exec Steve Wilson to Lead Content Acquisitions

Netflix is ramping up its push into podcasting, hiring Steve Wilson to spearhead podcast content acquisitions on a contract basis, Variety has confirmed. Wilson brings deep industry experience, having spent 15 years at Apple, where he most recently led marketing for Apple Podcasts and worked closely with podcasters and networks. He departed Apple in December. This move signals Netflix's intent to expand beyond video streaming and compete in the rapidly growing audio space, leveraging Wilson's relationships and expertise to secure compelling podcast content. As podcasts become a key engagement tool for media platforms, Netflix's entry could reshape the landscape, offering creators a new high-profile distribution partner. Wilson's hiring suggests the streaming giant is serious about building a robust podcast library to complement its film and TV offerings, potentially bundling audio content with existing subscriptions. The podcast industry, valued in the billions, continues to attract major players, and Netflix's move underscores the medium's strategic importance for audience retention and brand extension. With Wilson at the helm of acquisitions, expect Netflix to pursue high-profile deals and original podcast programming in the coming months.