• by Karlene Lukovitz  @KLmarketdaily, May 19, 2021

Netflix is looking to expand its podcasting footprint.

The leader in streaming is taking pitches from outside producers and looking to hire a head of audio programming to increase its podcast offerings, sources familiar with the plans told The Los Angeles Times.

The post for the programming job notes that the successful candidate “will be shaping the vision and implementation for Netflix’s growth in the podcast space as part of the Creative Development and Production team.”

While Netflix declined to offer specifics about its plans, a statement provided to the Times seems to imply that podcasts are, at least in part, still being viewed as a promotional tool for the streaming service.

“Podcasts are an excellent way for fans to connect with our stories and talent, and our marketing team plans to make more of them,” a spokesperson said.

However, Netflix, which has relied mostly on outside producers, is taking ideas for new podcasts, according to the sources.

Currently, Netflix has about 30 podcasts in its library — most promoting its popular original TV series and movies.

The most popular podcasts to date are “You Can’t Make This Up,” which digs into the real stories behind Netflix’s true crime films and series, and “Okay, Now Listen,” which is part of Netflix’s Strong Black Lead brand, hosted by Scottie Beam and Sylvia Obell, per the Times.