TikTok Radio Debuts Across 28 Broadcast Markets
iHeartMedia and TikTok have announced the launch of TikTok Radio from iHeart, a groundbreaking station that merges TikTok’s cultural influence with traditional radio programming. The station officially launched on March 13, 2026, during SXSW and is now available on the iHeartRadio app and across 28 broadcast stations in major markets including New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Austin, Chicago, Dallas, Nashville, and Miami.
The fast-paced programming combines today’s biggest music hits with real-time cultural commentary, offering listeners insights into the stories, trends, and moments that drive TikTok’s viral content. The station features signature segments designed to capture TikTok’s discovery-driven culture:
- Behind-the-Charts: Weekly countdown of the 10 biggest songs on TikTok with artist stories
- Hacks on the :20s: Trending life hacks broadcast every hour
- Hot Takes: Lighthearted commentary on lifestyle and culture topics
- New Music Fridays: Weekly new release highlights
- On The Verge: Featured music from emerging chart artists
Creator-Hosts Bridge Digital and Traditional Media
The station’s regular programming features established iHeart personalities who are also active TikTok creators, including Kayla Thomas from 102.7 KIIS FM LA, Ashlee Young from Houston, and Jon Comouche from 104.3 MYfm LA, among others.
The SXSW launch event transformed the iHeartPodcasts Hotel into what organizers called an “IRL For You Feed,” featuring rotating creator hosts and surprise guest appearances from TikTok stars including Grace Wells, Madison Tevlin, and Eric Sedeño.
TikTok Podcast Network Expands Creator Opportunities
Alongside the radio launch, the partnership introduces the inaugural slate of the TikTok Podcast Network, featuring shows from prominent TikTok creators transitioning into long-form audio content:
- Suite 305 with Lele Pons: Hosted by multihyphenate star Lele Pons, described as “the world’s most unfiltered slumber party”
- Caroline’s Closet: Fashion industry insights from editor and personality Caroline Vazzana
- Sports Slice: Hosted by Tim Martin, offering sports commentary and analysis
Strategic Partnership Implications
“At TikTok, empowering creators to turn their passions into lasting careers is core to everything we do, and this partnership unlocks powerful new opportunities for them to expand their voices across radio, podcasts and live moments,” said Dan Page, Global Head of Media and Licensing Partnerships at TikTok.
The collaboration represents a significant convergence of social media and traditional broadcasting, potentially setting new industry standards for cross-platform content creation and distribution. For podcast producers and audio professionals, this partnership signals growing opportunities in creator-driven content that bridges digital-first audiences with established broadcast infrastructure.
The TikTok Podcast Network shows are expected to launch in the coming months, with additional creator announcements planned for later this year.
Source: The Podwires Editor
