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October 1, 2024
UPDATE
Apple Podcasts Spotlights Narrative Series
Apple Podcasts has just introduced an exciting new feature that will delight fans of serialized audio storytelling. Starting today, listeners can explore an array of captivating narrative series with the launch of new charts, categories, and a special monthly celebration of standout series.
From today, Apple Podcasts is shining a spotlight on narrative podcast series—shows with episodes meant to be enjoyed in a specific order—that span a variety of genres. This initiative includes the introduction of a new Top Series chart, which will feature the top 100 series and be updated continuously. This marks the first-ever chart of its kind specifically for serialized podcast shows. Additionally, a new Series category will help users discover and explore shows they will love. To top it off, Apple Podcasts editors will highlight one exceptional series each month through the Series Essentials feature, beginning with the intriguing “Ghost Story,” an original series from Wondery and Audacy’s Pineapple Street Studios.
“Serialized podcasts are among the most impactful shows in the podcasting world, offering captivating voice talent along with best-in-class writing and sound design. These are the kinds of stories that stay with us for years,” said Ben Cave, Apple’s global head of Podcasts. “We are thrilled to celebrate this incredible catalog with the new Top Series chart, Series category, and Series Essentials on Apple Podcasts, making it easier for listeners to discover their next favorite show.”
Rachel Maddow, host of popular podcast series such as “Bag Man” and “Ultra,” echoed this sentiment. “I live for stories in any form—books, TV segments, documentaries, movies, graphic novels… you name it. But I am never more engaged in a story than when I’m hooked on a podcast series,” Maddow said. “There’s something unique about a single, sustained narrative that builds from episode to episode. For my series, I’ve heard from many listeners that these historical and political tales became relatable and even emotional. I firmly believe that the best stories often take longer than one sitting to tell, and that some of the finest stories in the world today are being told through podcast series.”
Jad Abumrad, creator of acclaimed series like “Radiolab,” “More Perfect,” and “Dolly Parton’s America,” also weighed in. “Creating a short series demands a monumental amount of work and dedication. I have immense respect for the audio producers who make these shows,” Abumrad said. “I’m thrilled that Apple Podcasts is supporting these critical shows and the producers behind them. I look forward to exploring their selections and finding new inspiration.”
Top Series Chart
Apple Podcasts is making history with the launch of the Top Series chart—the first industry chart dedicated to serialized shows. This new chart provides listeners with a dedicated space to find their next favorite series, while also celebrating the creators behind some of the most popular and trending shows on Apple Podcasts. Series shows consistently make up the majority of the most-shared and top new shows each year, and the Top Series chart will be updated continuously, similar to other charts on the platform.
Series Essentials
The Series Essentials feature will spotlight the very best in podcasting, celebrating exceptional storytelling and the medium’s greatest achievements. Each month, Apple Podcasts’ editors will recognize one show that captivates listeners with masterful storytelling, artistic excellence, a unique creator’s voice and vision, and exceptional craftsmanship. During its featured month, each Series Essentials selection will be presented completely ad-free on Apple Podcasts.
The first Series Essentials selection is “Ghost Story,” hosted by seasoned journalist Tristan Redman. This compelling and timeless story intertwines Redman’s personal family history with his quest for truth. The show spans multiple genres, including true crime, personal narrative, and historical tale, captivating a broad range of audiences.
“Limited series shows like ‘Ghost Story’ provide Wondery with an opportunity to collaborate with some of the best journalists and storytellers, uncovering new voices and stories that propel this medium forward,” said Jen Sargent, Wondery’s CEO. “Apple Podcasts’ Series Essentials is an incredibly exciting and innovative feature, shining a light on and celebrating these compelling stories, driving discoverability, and attracting new audiences.”
Tristan Redman expressed his excitement about the recognition. “We are thrilled that Apple Podcasts has chosen ‘Ghost Story’ as the first Series Essential. To be considered for this collection after just a year is truly special. We’re all drawn to stories that pull us in. Long-form series podcasts do that; they deserve to be celebrated.”
“Ghost Story” begins with a childhood bedroom haunting, evolves into an investigation of a 1930s murder, and concludes with a meditation on the risks and rewards of unearthing family history. The story features homicide detectives, ghost hunters, and even psychic mediums, as well as members of the Dancy family, including Tristan’s brother-in-law, actor Hugh Dancy, who speak for the first time about the murders.
For more detailed information, visit the Apple Newsroom.
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For more Information, Refer to this article.
