Netflix Taps Former Apple Exec Steve Wilson To Lead Podcast Acquisitions
By Armando Tinoco
Steve Wilson, a former Apple Podcasts executive, has been named to head Netflix's podcast division as the streaming giant seeks new growth opportunities, Deadline has learned.
Wilson, who spent 15 years at Apple working across editorial, partner relations, and marketing, left in 2020 to join QCode as Chief Strategy Officer, overseeing partnerships, marketing, distribution, and content strategy.
When joining QCode, Wilson stated, "Podcasting empowers individuals to share their voice with the world and promote storytelling, which engenders connection and empathy," a sentiment he can now bring to Netflix.
Wilson's appointment comes as Netflix expands its podcast offerings on its platform. They recently partnered with iHeartMedia to bring new podcasts from Martha Stewart, Kate Hudson and brother Oliver Hudson, and Lele Pons. In May, the platform began streaming Charlamagne Tha God’s live show, The Breakfast Club. In October 2025, Netflix launched its own podcasts, bringing shows from Spotify’s The Ringer to its platform.
The executive joins Netflix during a period of significant change in the company's executive ranks. Bela Bajaria was recently replaced as content chief by Peter Rice, and Dan Lin was ousted as film head. Earlier this month, Netflix laid off 6% of its global staff, approximately 1,000 jobs, impacting product, tech, legal, and HR teams, as the company faces slower growth and increased competition.