The Stand Group & Cineverse Join Forces for SXSW 2025: Comedy Podcasting Revolution Begins!
On the eve of their highly anticipated comedy takeover at SXSW 2025 in Austin, TX, The Stand Group, Inc. has announced an exciting partnership with Cineverse, a leading independent entertainment studio with a fast-growing podcast network. This collaboration is set to expand distribution platforms, boost sponsorship opportunities, increase programmatic demand, and open up new revenue streams across digital and live entertainment.
The deal also includes a development slate, allowing both companies to co-create original IP for podcasts and live shows, further strengthening their footprint in the industry.
Expanding the WITZ Comedy Brand: From FAST TV to Podcasts
After a successful 2022 launch of the WITZ Comedy-TV FAST channel and digital content library in partnership with Best Ever Channels (BEC), The Stand Group is now stepping into the world of podcasting. The WITZ Podcast Network, operating under the Cineverse Podcast Network, will serve as a new comedy label that leverages BEC’s creative strengths with Cineverse’s distribution power.
According to BEC co-CEO Barry Gordon, this partnership will enable both companies to "maximize marketing, promotional, and sales initiatives for shows within the network, fostering new creators and original content."
Comedy: The Fastest-Growing Podcasting Genre
Podcasting has become a dominant force in entertainment, and comedy leads the charge. According to Edison Research, comedy is the No. 1 most popular podcasting category in the U.S. Moreover, the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) reports that from 2022 to 2024, comedy podcasts overtook news and sports in popularity, gaining 300 new advertisers in Q3 2023 alone.
This expansion into comedy is a strategic move for Cineverse, which has already built a strong presence in horror, true crime, and entertainment podcasts, ranking among the top 10 podcast networks.
Industry Leaders Weigh In on the Partnership
Cris Italia (The Stand/WITZ Partner)
"After 20 years of curating live experiences and working with some of the best comedians in the industry, we are excited to nurture talent across podcasts and independent content creation. Cineverse provides the perfect platform to bring our vision to life."
Erick Opeka (Cineverse President & Chief Strategy Officer)
"This partnership instantly gives us credibility in the comedy genre. With the rise of podcasting as a major promotional and monetization tool, the timing couldn't be better."
SXSW 2025: The Perfect Stage for WITZ Podcast Network’s Grand Launch
The collaboration will officially kick off in grand style at SXSW 2025, with a star-studded event celebrating the launch of the WITZ Podcast Network. The festival will also feature the highly anticipated unrated theatrical release of The Toxic Avenger, directed by Macon Blair and starring Peter Dinklage.
What to Expect at the SXSW Launch Event:
? Live performances by top comedians and podcast talent
? Exclusive sneak peeks at upcoming WITZ podcast projects
? Appearances by musicians and celebrities from The Toxic Avenger
? Industry networking opportunities with brands and sponsors
The Stand Group’s Legacy: Comedy’s Biggest Names
The Stand Group has built a stellar reputation working with some of the biggest names in stand-up comedy, including:
This new venture will allow them to further support emerging comedic talent while expanding their footprint in the digital entertainment space.
A Game-Changer for Comedy and Podcasting
This partnership between The Stand Group and Cineverse marks a significant moment for comedy podcasting. By merging The Stand’s expertise in live comedy with Cineverse’s digital distribution, advertising, and brand-building power, this collaboration is poised to redefine the industry.
As podcasting continues to grow as a major revenue driver, this strategic move ensures both companies remain ahead of the curve, maximizing content reach, monetization, and audience engagement.
Final Thoughts
With the comedy industry booming, this partnership between The Stand Group and Cineverse is more than just an expansion—it’s a revolution. By leveraging the power of podcasting, live entertainment, and digital distribution, the WITZ Podcast Network is set to become a major player in the comedy world.
Stay tuned as SXSW 2025 sets the stage for this exciting new chapter in digital media!
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