Shots Podcast Network Joins Cumulus Podcast Network, Bringing Unfiltered Entertainment to Millions of Listeners

Rhea-AI Summary

Cumulus Media (NASDAQ: CMLS) announced that the Shots Podcast Network has joined the Cumulus Podcast Network via Westwood One for distribution, marketing, and monetization while Shots retains content ownership and production.

Key audience metrics cited include Full Send with 2.2 million YouTube subscribers and 430 million views, and One Night with Steiny with 190,000 YouTube subscribers. Shows highlighted include Full Send Podcast, One Night with Steiny, and The Rush with Maxx Crosby. Episodes are available weekly on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and Cumulus digital platforms.

Positive

• Full Send has 2.2 million YouTube subscribers
• Full Send reports 430 million views across channels
• One Night with Steiny has 190,000 YouTube subscribers
• Shots content to be distributed and monetized by Cumulus/Westwood One
• Shows available weekly on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube

Negative

• None.

Insights

Media Partnerships Analyst

Cumulus expands reach by adding Shots Podcast Network, boosting creator-led audio inventory and monetization potential.

The deal places the Shots Podcast Network into the Cumulus Podcast Network distribution, marketing, and monetization pipeline while Shots retains content ownership and production. This arrangement increases Cumulus's creator-driven inventory and offers advertisers access to high-engagement shows such as Full Send, One Night with Steiny, and The Rush with Maxx Crosby, each with sizeable YouTube followings and cross‑platform distribution.

Key dependencies include Cumulus/Westwood One's ability to translate Shots' existing audience into scalable ad sales and measurable podcast revenue without disrupting creator control; advertiser acceptance of the shows' unapologetic style matters for brand safety and CPMs. Risks center on audience overlap, potential brand-safety concerns from controversial content, and execution of cross-platform monetization rather than content performance.

Concrete items to watch: weekly episode release cadence and platform distribution (Apple, Spotify, YouTube) and any reported advertising deals or monetization metrics over the next 12 months. Monitor announcements of measurable ad partnerships, CPMs, or audience metrics such as subscriber/view growth for Full Send (noted at "over 2.2 million YouTube subscribers" and "more than 430 million views"), and traction for shows like One Night with Steiny ("over 190,000 YouTube subscribers").

ATLANTA, Nov. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cumulus Media today announced a major expansion of its podcast portfolio with the addition of the Shots Podcast Network podcasts to the Cumulus Podcast Network, marking a new era of creator-led audio entertainment. As part of Westwood One’s portfolio, The Cumulus Podcast Network distributes, markets, and monetizes the Shots Podcast Network with this new partnership. Shots Podcast Network continues to develop, produce, and own all content.

The Shots Podcast Network is a powerhouse in digital media, known for its unapologetic style, viral content, and massive fanbase. The network includes hit shows like the flagship Full Send Podcast, hosted by Kyle Forgeard; One Night with Steiny, featuring Aaron “Steiny” Steinberg; and The Rush with Maxx, hosted by NFL star Maxx Crosby.

Full Send Podcast

With over 2.2 million YouTube subscribers and more than 430 million views across its channels, Full Send has become a cultural phenomenon, attracting high-profile guests such as Donald Trump, Elon Musk, Mike Tyson, Dana White, and Stephen A. Smith. Blending long-form interviews with raw, off-the-cuff commentary, the Full Send Podcast is a favorite among young adult audiences. Its success is driven by the NELK Boys’ ability to connect with fans through humor, controversy, and authenticity — a formula that has propelled the brand into mainstream media, merchandise, and even beverage ventures like Happy Dad Hard Seltzer.

One Night with Steiny

Hosted by Aaron “Steiny” Steinberg, One Night with Steiny is a fast-rising comedic interview podcast that blends humor, pop culture, and unfiltered conversations with celebrities, influencers, and viral personalities. With over 190,000 YouTube subscribers and millions of views across episodes, Steiny’s show delivers raw, entertaining content that resonates with a wide and diverse audience. The show is part of the Shots Podcast Network and continues to climb the charts in comedy interviews.

The Rush with Maxx Crosby

NFL All-Pro defensive end Maxx Crosby brings fans behind the scenes of the football world in The Rush, a weekly podcast co-hosted with Brogan Roback and Darien Terrell. With exclusive insights into Raiders games, candid interviews with top athletes, and commentary on the league’s fiercest pass rushers, The Rush has become a must-listen for football fans. The show features guests like Davante Adams, Cam Jordan, and Chris Long, and is available on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. Crosby’s authentic storytelling and locker-room camaraderie make The Rush a standout in sports podcasting.

John Shahidi, CEO of Shots Podcast Network, said: “This partnership with Cumulus is a game-changer. Their infrastructure allows us to amplify our creators and connect with audiences in new ways. We’re excited to grow the Shots Podcast Network and continue pushing boundaries in podcasting.”

Collin Jones, President of Westwood One and Cumulus Podcast Network, said: “Shots is one of the most dynamic and influential creator networks in media today. Their fearless approach to content and ability to engage millions of fans makes them a perfect fit for the Cumulus Podcast Network. We’re thrilled to welcome John, and the entire Shots team.”

Listeners can find Shots Podcast Network podcasts on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and across the Cumulus Podcast Network’s digital platforms. New episodes drop weekly, featuring exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and the signature Shots style that fans know and love.

About Cumulus Media 

Cumulus Media (OTCQB: CMLS) is an audio-first media company delivering premium content to a quarter billion people every month – wherever and whenever they want it. Cumulus Media engages listeners with high-quality local programming through 399 owned-and-operated radio stations across 84 markets; delivers nationally-syndicated sports, news, talk, and entertainment programming from iconic brands including the NFL, the NCAA, the Masters, AP News, the Academy of Country Music Awards, and many other world-class partners across more than 9,500 affiliated stations through Westwood One, the largest audio network in America; and inspires listeners through the Cumulus Podcast Network, an established and influential platform for original podcasts that are smart, entertaining, and thought-provoking. Cumulus Media provides advertisers with personal connections, local impact, and national reach through broadcast and on-demand digital, mobile, social, and voice-activated platforms, as well as integrated digital marketing services, powerful influencers, full-service audio solutions, industry-leading research and insights, and live event experiences. For more information, visit www.cumulusmedia.com.   

Contact: Lisa Dollinger Strategic Communication for Cumulus Media | Westwood One | lisa@dollcom.com  

FAQ

What did Cumulus (CMLS) announce on November 12, 2025 about Shots Podcast Network?

Cumulus announced that Shots Podcast Network will join the Cumulus Podcast Network for distribution, marketing, and monetization while Shots continues to own and produce its content.

How large is Full Send's audience mentioned in the Cumulus/Shots announcement?

The release cites 2.2 million YouTube subscribers and 430 million views across Full Send channels.

Which Shots shows are included in the Cumulus partnership and where can I listen?

Highlighted shows include Full Send Podcast, One Night with Steiny, and The Rush with Maxx Crosby, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and Cumulus digital platforms.

Will Shots keep ownership of its podcasts after the Cumulus deal (CMLS)?

Yes; the announcement says Shots Podcast Network will continue to develop, produce, and own all content while Cumulus/Westwood One handles distribution and monetization.

Does the Cumulus announcement disclose financial terms or funding for the Shots deal?

No; the announcement describes distribution, marketing, and monetization arrangements but does not disclose financial terms.