Beyond Ads: How Brands are Aligning with Podcasts in 2026

20 May 2026
The Origin Stage
Creator , Industry , Brands

Podcast monetisation has moved far beyond promo codes and the standard “brought to you by.” As audiences become more selective, the strongest audio partnerships prioritize credibility and context over pure reach. For podcasters looking to expand the monetisation of their content, this session explores the growing shift from transactional ad buys to bolder brand-funded storytelling, offering a practical look at how ambitious audio partnerships are taking shape.

Drawing on GSK’s Innovation Unlocked campaign across BBC Podcasts, alongside examples from iHeartMedia's Ruby studio, speakers from BBC Studios, GSK, Publicis Media, and iHeartMedia explore how premium audio helps brands communicate complex, highly regulated topics in ways that feel more contextual, credible, and genuinely engaging than a standard ad spot alone:

-How brands evaluate podcasts and partners before committing meaningful investment
-Why trust, standards, and structure matter as much as audience size
-How creators and publishers can shape ideas brands can naturally and credibly align with
-How branded storytelling works alongside standard advertising to create deeper audience connection

Chairperson
Ethan Fixell
Ethan Fixell, SVP of Ruby Studios - By iHeart Media
Speakers
Alanna Vaughns
Alanna Vaughns, Revenue Partnerships Lead - BBC Studios
Benish Mahmood
Benish Mahmood, Head of Global Partnerships - Publicis Media Content
Charlie Beaty-Pownall
Charlie Beaty-Pownall, Director of Content Planning and Editorial for Global Health - GSK

Sponsored by:

iHeartPodcasts