# Gimlet Media on The No Agenda Show

Gimlet Media comes up in 20 chapters across 20 episodes of The No Agenda Show, from June 2017 to May 2023.

- **Chapters:** 20
- **Episodes:** 20
- **Discussed:** June 2017 – May 2023
- **Related topics:** [Podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), [Spotify](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spotify.md), [Value For Value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [Advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/advertising.md), [Unionization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/unionization.md), [13th Anniversary](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/13th-anniversary.md), [Acquisition](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/acquisition.md), [Anchor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anchor.md), [Apple Podcasts](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apple-podcasts.md), [Brooklyn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brooklyn.md)

## Chapters 1–20 of 20

### Podcast Unionization and Production Models

- **Episode:** [1552: Old Trout](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1552-old-trout.md)
- **Published:** 2023-05-04
- **Time:** 8:57–11:23
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1552-old-trout/chapter/podcast-unionization-and-production-models.md

Spotify-owned podcast studios Gimlet Media and Parcast have unionized under the WGA East, a move criticized for applying traditional Hollywood production models to the podcast industry. The "Value for Value" model is presented as a more sustainable alternative to the high-overhead executive producer structures that are currently failing as venture capital funding dries up.

Keywords: [spotify](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spotify.md), [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), parcast, wga east, [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md)

### CNN Political Briefing and Podcast Industry Economics

- **Episode:** [1491: Nyet Bluffski](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1491-nyet-bluffski.md)
- **Published:** 2022-10-02
- **Time:** 16:06–18:31
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1491-nyet-bluffski/chapter/cnn-political-briefing-and-podcast-industry-economics.md

A clip from the CNN Political Briefing highlights the high number of producers required for corporate podcasts, which the hosts contrast with their own lean model. They discuss the broader downturn in the podcasting industry, noting that Spotify and Gimlet are cutting staff as the era of "free money" and high interest rates ends.

Keywords: [cnn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cnn.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), [advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/advertising.md), [spotify](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spotify.md), [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), [production costs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/production-costs.md)

### Insect Consumption Promotion, Gimlet Media, Sustainable Protein

- **Episode:** [1470: Clubbing Center](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1470-clubbing-center.md)
- **Published:** 2022-07-21
- **Time:** 51:53–59:29
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1470-clubbing-center/chapter/insect-consumption-promotion-gimlet-media-sustainable-protein.md

The World Economic Forum and media outlets like PBS Nova are increasingly promoting the consumption of insects as a sustainable protein source to combat climate change. A children's podcast titled "Chompers," produced by Gimlet Media, features "Bugs Week" to normalize eating crickets and ants for health and environmental benefits. Critics view this as a coordinated effort to replace traditional beef with "bug burgers" for the general population.

Keywords: [bugs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bugs.md), [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), [spotify](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spotify.md), pbs nova, [methane](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/methane.md), sustainable diet

### Pennsylvania Lockdowns, Governor Wolf, 13th Anniversary

- **Episode:** [1286: Rory's Dad](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1286-rory-s-dad.md)
- **Published:** 2020-10-15
- **Time:** 2:00:18–2:03:12
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1286-rory-s-dad/chapter/pennsylvania-lockdowns-governor-wolf-13th-anniversary.md

Shane McLaughlin from Pittsburgh donated $200, criticizing Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf for keeping the state "locked up and masked up." The show is approaching its 13th anniversary on October 26th, coinciding with its 1300th episode. Listeners were reminded that their production titles are legitimate in the entertainment industry and could even be used to seek employment at firms like Gimlet Media.

Keywords: [pennsylvania](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pennsylvania.md), governor wolf, [kamala harris](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kamala-harris.md), [13th anniversary](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/13th-anniversary.md), [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md)

### Venmo Reparations, Gimlet Media, White Guilt

- **Episode:** [1253: Trained Marxist](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1253-trained-marxist.md)
- **Published:** 2020-06-25
- **Time:** 53:04–58:05
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1253-trained-marxist/chapter/venmo-reparations-gimlet-media-white-guilt.md

A new social media trend involves white individuals sending unsolicited small payments via Venmo to black acquaintances as a form of "reparations." A podcast from Gimlet Media investigated the phenomenon, finding that many recipients find the gesture insulting or confusing. The payments are often small amounts, such as five dollars, intended to alleviate white guilt.

Keywords: [venmo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/venmo.md), [reparations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/reparations.md), [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), [white guilt](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/white-guilt.md), [social media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/social-media.md)

### No Agenda Listenership Growth, Value for Value Model

- **Episode:** [1244: Gain of Function](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1244-gain-of-function.md)
- **Published:** 2020-05-24
- **Time:** 13:02–18:11
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1244-gain-of-function/chapter/no-agenda-listenership-growth-value-for-value-model.md

Adam Curry reports a significant surge in No Agenda listenership following his appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience, with baseline numbers increasing up to 2,000% on Apple Podcasts. The discussion contrasts the "value for value" independent model with corporate podcasting acquisitions like Gimlet Media by Spotify. They posit that independence is the only way to avoid the "censorship bin" of mainstream platforms.

Keywords: [apple podcasts](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apple-podcasts.md), podcast connect, [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), [downloads](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/downloads.md)

### Branded Podcast Trend, Gimlet Media Corporate Content

- **Episode:** [1166: Tacorista](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1166-tacorista.md)
- **Published:** 2019-08-25
- **Time:** 2:21:43–2:27:02
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1166-tacorista/chapter/branded-podcast-trend-gimlet-media-corporate-content.md

The New York Times reported on the rise of "branded podcasts," where companies like McDonald's and New Balance hire networks like Gimlet Media to produce full-length shows about their products. Critics view this as a "death knell" for independent podcasting, as networks resort to making native advertisements to meet payroll. The hosts mocked the concept by improvising a "Shellcast" interview with a generic taco shell manufacturer.

Keywords: [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), branded podcasts, new balance, [mcdonalds](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mcdonalds.md), [advertising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/advertising.md)

### Podcast Industry, Media Erasure of No Agenda

- **Episode:** [1134: Opinion People](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1134-opinion-people.md)
- **Published:** 2019-05-05
- **Time:** 42:20–44:29
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1134-opinion-people/chapter/podcast-industry-media-erasure-of-no-agenda.md

The mainstream media and podcasting conferences are criticized for ignoring the history and contributions of the No Agenda show. Despite the show's longevity, hosts note they are never consulted for articles or books about the medium's evolution. The discussion covers the unionization of Gimlet Media and the "value for value" model as an alternative to failing advertising-based networks.

Keywords: [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), [spotify](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spotify.md), [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [mtv](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mtv.md)

### Title Changes and Gimlet Media Studios

- **Episode:** [1130: Troll Union](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1130-troll-union.md)
- **Published:** 2019-04-21
- **Time:** 2:24:34–2:29:01
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1130-troll-union/chapter/title-changes-and-gimlet-media-studios.md

The hosts discuss the high-end studio builds at Gimlet Media, noting the use of expensive Neumann microphones to achieve an "NPR-like vibe." They contrast this corporate, "radio-style" approach to podcasting with the "honest" and minimalist aesthetic of the No Agenda Cluedio.

Keywords: [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), [spotify](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spotify.md), [neumann](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/neumann.md), [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), [studio design](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/studio-design.md)

### Fiberglass Chair Creak, Professionalism in Podcasting

- **Episode:** [1125: Elusive Logic](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1125-elusive-logic.md)
- **Published:** 2019-03-31
- **Time:** 2:14:11–2:15:43
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1125-elusive-logic/chapter/fiberglass-chair-creak-professionalism-in-podcasting.md

John Dvorak discusses the persistent creaking of his vintage fiberglass chair, which he discovered is a collectible item worth $350. The hosts joke about the lack of "professional" gear compared to corporate networks like Gimlet Media, emphasizing their independent, "closet-based" production style.

Keywords: fiberglass chair, [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), [studio setup](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/studio-setup.md), [collectibles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/collectibles.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md)

### Spotify Acquisition of Podcast Companies Gimlet and Parcast

- **Episode:** [1124: Work To Rules](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1124-work-to-rules.md)
- **Published:** 2019-03-31
- **Time:** 1:57:35–1:59:06
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1124-work-to-rules/chapter/spotify-acquisition-of-podcast-companies-gimlet-and-parcast.md

Spotify announced plans to spend up to $500 million on podcast acquisitions, including the purchase of Parcast and Gimlet Media. Following the Gimlet deal, employees moved to unionize to ensure they receive a share of the acquisition profits. The hosts reflect on being early pioneers in the podcasting space without seeing similar massive exits.

Keywords: [spotify](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spotify.md), [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), parcast, [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), [unionization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/unionization.md)

### Gimlet Media Unionization, Podcast Industry Economics

- **Episode:** [1121: Accelerationism](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1121-accelerationism.md)
- **Published:** 2019-03-18
- **Time:** 2:12:31–2:20:22
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1121-accelerationism/chapter/gimlet-media-unionization-podcast-industry-economics.md

Following Spotify's $230 million acquisition of Gimlet Media, the staff has decided to unionize with the Writers Guild of America East. The hosts argue that unionizing a podcast network is a "beginning of the end" move that will destroy profitability due to rigid job descriptions and high overhead. They contrast this corporate model with the "Value for Value" model, which they claim is more sustainable for the medium.

Keywords: [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), [spotify](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spotify.md), [unionization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/unionization.md), writers guild of america east, [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), [profitability](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/profitability.md)

### Spotify Podcast Acquisitions, Daily Source Code Revival

- **Episode:** [1110: Kremlin Crush](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1110-kremlin-crush.md)
- **Published:** 2019-02-08
- **Time:** 41:43–45:49
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1110-kremlin-crush/chapter/spotify-podcast-acquisitions-daily-source-code-revival.md

Spotify's acquisition of Gimlet Media and Anchor marks a shift toward a centralized, ad-supported podcasting model. The hosts express skepticism about moving to platforms that restrict content to specific apps and prevent ad-skipping. Plans are discussed for a potential revival of the Daily Source Code using a new monetization platform that includes music licensing.

Keywords: [spotify](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spotify.md), [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), [anchor](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/anchor.md), [daily source code](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daily-source-code.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md)

### Spotify Podcast Acquisitions, Gimlet Media and No Agenda Offer

- **Episode:** [1109: Pentacon](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1109-pentacon.md)
- **Published:** 2019-02-05
- **Time:** 26:18–30:37
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1109-pentacon/chapter/spotify-podcast-acquisitions-gimlet-media-and-no-agenda-offer.md

Spotify is reportedly in talks to acquire Gimlet Media for approximately $200 million, signaling a shift toward platform exclusivity in podcasting. It is revealed that the No Agenda show received a similar offer from Spotify involving high numbers but requiring total exclusivity and the removal of the public RSS feed. The hosts express a preference for the "Value for Value" model over corporate acquisition.

Keywords: [spotify](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/spotify.md), [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), exclusivity, [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [acquisition](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/acquisition.md)

### Gimlet Media, Podcast Overhead, Old Media Models

- **Episode:** [1105: BOMBSHELL!](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1105-bombshell.md)
- **Published:** 2019-01-20
- **Time:** 2:24:24–2:29:00
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1105-bombshell/chapter/gimlet-media-podcast-overhead-old-media-models.md

A CBS report by David Pogue features Gimlet Media, which employs 120 people to produce 24 podcasts in 13 high-end studios. The hosts mock this "old media" approach, noting the extreme overhead of having five to six employees per show. They contrast this with their own "closet" production style, which utilizes modern noise gates and directional microphones to achieve professional quality without corporate bloat.

Keywords: [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), [david pogue](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/david-pogue.md), alex blumberg, [hbo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hbo.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md)

### Value for Value Model vs. Gimlet Media Overhead

- **Episode:** [1101: Tippie-Top](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1101-tippie-top.md)
- **Published:** 2019-01-07
- **Time:** 1:12:11–1:16:58
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1101-tippie-top/chapter/value-for-value-model-vs-gimlet-media-overhead.md

The "Value for Value" funding model is contrasted with high-overhead podcast networks like Gimlet Media, which built a 20,000 square foot facility in Brooklyn. The hosts argue that venture-capital-backed networks are unsustainable compared to their listener-supported, low-overhead approach.

Keywords: [value for value](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-for-value.md), [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), [brooklyn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brooklyn.md), [venture capital](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/venture-capital.md), [production](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/production.md)

### Gimlet Media and Startup Podcast Inspiration for Alex Inc

- **Episode:** [1028: Roscoe!](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1028-roscoe.md)
- **Published:** 2018-04-26
- **Time:** 37:47–40:55
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1028-roscoe/chapter/gimlet-media-and-startup-podcast-inspiration-for-alex-inc.md

The TV series Alex Inc is identified as being based on the story of Alex Blumberg and the founding of Gimlet Media, rather than the hosts' personal experiences. The show's dialogue regarding the "alchemy" of podcasting and the process of pitching shows via cards is dismissed as inaccurate. The discussion concludes that while the network model can be monetized, the TV adaptation fails to capture the reality of the medium.

Keywords: alex inc, [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), alex blumberg, startup podcast, [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md)

### Podcast Industry Pitchmen, Retraining the Audience

- **Episode:** [1022: LibJoe](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1022-libjoe.md)
- **Published:** 2018-04-05
- **Time:** 2:01:16–2:07:40
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1022-libjoe/chapter/podcast-industry-pitchmen-retraining-the-audience.md

Gimlet Media's Alex Bloomberg and Slate's Jacob Weisberg discuss the "second golden age of audio" at a Goldman Sachs event. The hosts critique their "radio-centric" view of podcasting and mock Weisberg's suggestion that the audience needs to be "retrained." They argue that these industry leaders are simply pitching investors rather than understanding the medium's true potential.

Keywords: [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), alex bloomberg, jacob weisberg, [goldman sachs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/goldman-sachs.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md)

### NAB Podcast Pavilion, Industry Recognition

- **Episode:** [1014: Rise of the Betas](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1014-rise-of-the-betas.md)
- **Published:** 2018-03-08
- **Time:** 2:12:53–2:14:20
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1014-rise-of-the-betas/chapter/nab-podcast-pavilion-industry-recognition.md

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) show features a "Podcast Pavilion" and a "perfect podcasting studio." The hosts criticized mainstream media coverage of podcasting, which often credits shows like "Serial" or "Gimlet Media" for the medium's success while ignoring long-term independent podcasters. Listeners attending the NAB show were asked to send photos of the pavilion.

Keywords: [nab](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nab.md), national association of broadcasters, podcast pavilion, [serial](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/serial.md), [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md)

### Gimlet Media and the Failure of Podcast Networks

- **Episode:** [939: Bigdala](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/939-bigdala.md)
- **Published:** 2017-06-18
- **Time:** 2:41:43–2:44:07
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/939-bigdala/chapter/gimlet-media-and-the-failure-of-podcast-networks.md

Gimlet Media, once hailed as a revolutionary podcast network, is criticized for shifting its business model toward producing branded content for companies like Ford, Tinder, and eBay. The hosts argue this confirms their prediction that traditional podcast networks cannot be monetized through ads alone and must eventually become ad agencies. They reflect on their own history with "Podshow" in 2005 and the lessons learned about the industry.

Keywords: [gimlet media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gimlet-media.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), [native ads](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/native-ads.md), [ebay](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ebay.md), [tinder](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tinder.md)

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