Amazon Cuts 110 Wondery Jobs, CEO Exits Amid Podcast Restructuring

Amazon is restructuring its Wondery podcast division, resulting in approximately 110 job cuts and the departure of CEO Jen Sargent, as part of a strategic shift to adapt to the evolving podcast landscape dominated by video content. Narrative podcasts like "Dr. Death" and "Dirty John" will be integrated into Audible, Amazon’s audiobook and podcast platform, while celebrity-hosted and personality-driven shows such as "New Heights" and "Armchair Expert" will move to a newly formed Creator Services division focused on sponsorships and e-commerce opportunities. This reorganization reflects Amazon’s recognition of the growing importance of video-forward, creator-led content and aims to better align teams with strategic opportunities for creators, users, and advertisers. The Wondery+ subscription app will remain active but will be managed under Audible, and Wondery will continue to exist primarily under Creator Services. Amazon’s move highlights broader industry challenges faced by podcasting amid increased competition from video platforms like YouTube, emphasizing a pivot toward video-centric and brand partnership-driven strategies. Steve Boom, Amazon’s Vice President of Audio, Twitch, and Games, acknowledged that different approaches are necessary for video programs compared to traditional audio-first narrative series.