Podcast Network Headgum Cuts 30% of Staff Amid Industry Challenges

In a sign of the turbulent times in the podcast industry, the comedy podcast network Headgum has laid off approximately 30% of its staff earlier this month. The layoffs affected key personnel, including the head of video, Casey Donahue, and the head of marketing, Marika Brownlee, who had been with the L.A.-based company for nearly a decade.

Brownlee described the layoffs as a "shock," though she acknowledged the problems were "happening industrywide." Headgum had around 22 staffers before the cuts, and the company also recently vacated its New York studio. Some employees were reportedly told the business would only last a few more months without the restructuring.

The podcast industry has faced significant challenges this year, with other high-profile layoffs at companies like Pineapple Street Studios, Spotify, and Wondery. Headgum, which has remained independent, appeared to have weathered the storm to some degree, celebrating its 10th anniversary in August. However, the "major speed bumps" the company has faced, including talent departures and ad market freezes, have now led to the painful decision to downsize.