Ten years ago, I took a leap of faith on a belief that felt both simple and bold: that authentic host-read storytelling had the power to connect brands and audiences in a way nothing else could. At the time, podcasting was still considered a “curious new space” by many advertisers. But I saw a medium built on real voices, real relationships, and real trust, and I knew there was an opportunity to build something meaningful around that.
A decade later, True Native Media looks very different from the small, scrappy operation that started in 2016. What hasn’t changed is the core idea that started it all: when podcasters and advertisers work together with intention, the results can be transformative.
In retrospect, what strikes me most is the power of steady, intentional growth. We didn’t scale overnight. We grew show by show, relationship by relationship, campaign by campaign. And over time, that slow and steady approach created something much bigger than I ever imagined.
One of my greatest joys has been watching our roster evolve from our first handful of shows to the hundreds we proudly represent today. Every new podcaster brought a new voice, a new perspective, and a new community into our world. It’s humbling to think about the trust so many creators have placed in us, trusting us not only with their content but with their livelihoods and their partnerships.
Our roster has become a reflection of the podcast ecosystem itself. It is diverse, passionate, creative, and driven by storytelling that matters. It’s been an honor to help so many shows grow their businesses while connecting them with brands that value what they’ve built.
We’ve also had the privilege of working with an incredible breadth of advertisers. From category-defining DTC brands to global leaders in finance, wellness, entertainment, and beyond, the advertisers who come to True Native Media share a common belief in the power of podcasting.
Many of our long-time partners started with a small test, saw the impact of authentic host-read ads, and stayed with us year after year. Others came looking for scale and found it through our network of high-quality creators. All of them helped shape who we are today. Their trust (and naturally, their results) are proof that podcast advertising isn’t just a tactic; it’s a long-term strategy grounded in connection and credibility.
Growing a business for a decade teaches you a lot. It teaches you resilience, patience, and the value of consistency. It teaches you that the most important work often happens quietly, behind the scenes. And it reminds you that relationships with podcasters, advertisers, team members, and industry partners are the true foundation of everything we do.
Looking back on the last ten years fills me with gratitude. Looking forward fills me with excitement. Podcasting continues to evolve, and our industry is entering one of its most innovative chapters yet. I’m proud that True Native Media will continue to champion independent creators, advocate for audio-first strategies, and help brands invest in a medium that builds real trust with listeners.
To everyone who has been part of this journey, thank you. Building this company has been the privilege of my professional life, and the best part is that we’re only getting started.
Here’s to the next ten years.