Meta Threads Adds In-Feed Podcast Previews to Drive Use
• Threads now supports short, in-feed podcast episode previews that play directly in users’ feeds. • Meta is hosting live podcast events to encourage creators and listeners to build communities on Threads. • Threads aims to shift podcast conversations from fan-run Facebook Groups to host-led interactions on its app. • The move pits Threads against Reddit, Discord, Substack and Patreon as podcasters chase audience engagement and monetization.
What Meta is rolling out
Meta’s Threads is testing a new feature that allows podcasters to share short episode previews that play directly inside users’ feeds. The goal is to make it easier for creators to surface audio moments and for listeners to discover new episodes without leaving the app.
The feature is part of a broader push to attract podcasters and their audiences to Threads as a place for ongoing conversation, not just one-off posts.
Why podcasters are a priority
Threads’ leadership believes podcasters are well suited to spark discussion. Connor Hayes, who leads Threads, has said these events and audio-first moments are already generating conversations in verticals such as sports and reality TV.
Podcasts often produce strong opinions and serialized content — ingredients that can drive repeat visits and community formation on social platforms. By letting hosts post previews, Threads is attempting to move many podcast-centered conversations from fan-run Facebook Groups to spaces where creators lead engagement.
Live events and early experiments
Meta has begun hosting live podcast events to showcase the new approach, including a Los Angeles event tied to the basketball podcast All The Smoke. Influencers were invited to participate and post about the event on Threads to amplify awareness.
These experiments are designed to show podcasters how Threads can help them reach fans directly and seed public discussions that attract new listeners.
Competition and business implications
Threads faces established alternatives where podcasters already build communities and monetize: Reddit, Discord, Substack and Patreon. Those platforms offer private groups, newsletters and paid tiers that many creators use today.
Meta’s advantage is scale: integrating audio previews into a mainstream social feed could surface shows to a broader audience and drive discovery.
What Wall Street is watching
Analysts remain bullish on Meta overall. TipRanks shows a Strong Buy consensus for META based on 36 Buys, six Holds and one Sell, with an average price target of $829.09 implying roughly 25.7% upside. Investors will watch whether features like podcast previews translate into higher engagement and ad or creator-monetization opportunities for Meta.
