Hernán López launches Audio on Demand network Wondery

Hernan López, ex FOX, announced the launch of Wondery, an Audio on Demand network focused on crafting original, scripted and real-life programming. FOX will be investing in this new venture. “Wondery gives me the ability to combine many things I know and love—storytelling, network and brand building and technology—in the fastest growing segment of on-demand consumption. Americans spend three and a half hours a day with audio, and all that time is going in one direction: mobile, and on-demand. Podcast consumption has grown more than 40% in just two years and is about to reach a tipping point. This is the perfect timing to capture this opportunity, using some of the best practices that have transformed television over the last ten years,” said López.“Hernán has an exceptional understanding of the ways in which new technologies allow companies to build media brands on a global scale, and we look forward to his success with this new venture,” said FOX Networks Group Chairman and CEO Peter Rice. Nearly 50 million Americans listen to podcasts monthly—a number that has grown by more than 40% in just two years. Analysts expect consumer consumption to grow from six billion listener-hours in 2013 to 15 billion by 2020. Wondery will be partnering with ART19, a San Francisco-based technology company that provides distribution infrastructure to top podcasts, networks, and media companies. Its proprietary WarpFeed technology dynamically inserts ads, including host-read spots, which enables advertisers to target listeners based on time, location, and other demographics.“The sheer numbers, the desirable demographics, and the intimate environment in which advertisers can engage with audiences make it clear that there is a compelling business opportunity here,” continued Lopez. “With the support of Fox and the relationships I have built over my 26 years in radio and television, I am confident that Wondery will be able to attract great storytellers and unrivaled consumer interest.”