Amazon to cut jobs at Wondery amid reorganization

Amazon's restructuring of Wondery highlights challenges in the evolving podcast market.

Amazon reconfigures Wondery and cuts jobs in audio division

Amazon.com Inc. has announced significant changes to its Wondery podcast network, including a reorganization that will lead to the layoffs of approximately 110 employees. This decision comes as Wondery will be integrated into Amazon’s Audible and a newly formed “creator services” team. Jen Sargent, Wondery's CEO, will also leave the company. Current shows from Wondery may either fall under the Audible umbrella or find a home in the new creator services division, which aims to manage more personality-driven content, like the podcasts hosted by Jason and Travis Kelce.

The restructuring of Wondery underscores the ongoing evolution within the podcasting landscape. As industry trends shift towards video-oriented content, traditional audio platforms face pressure to adapt. This move by Amazon reflects a strategic pivot, but it also raises concerns about job security and the focus on established brands. The decision to exit certain leaders may point to deeper struggles within Amazon's audio strategy, potentially impacting listener loyalty and content diversity.

Highlights

Future developments will reveal how this strategy affects Wondery's brand and content.