In a significant move that highlights the growing influence of true-crime storytelling, Audiochuck, the renowned podcast company founded by Ashley Flowers, has secured $40 million in funding from The Chernin Group (TCG), a multi-stage investment firm led by media mogul Peter Chernin. This marks the first external investment for Audiochuck, which has been a trailblazer in the true-crime podcasting space since its inception in 2017. With this influx of capital, the Indianapolis-based company aims to accelerate its growth, expand its team, and explore new creative avenues, ensuring its continued dominance in the ever-evolving media landscape. Flowers, who remains the majority owner of Audiochuck, expressed her excitement about the partnership, emphasizing that this investment will enable the company to amplify its storytelling capabilities and deepen its impact on the cases and social issues it champions.
Audiochuck’s journey from a humble startup to a media powerhouse is a testament to the power of compelling storytelling. The company’s flagship podcast, Crime Junkie, hosted by Flowers and her co-host Brit Prawat, has become a cultural phenomenon, topping the charts as Apple Podcasts’ number one true-crime podcast of 2024 and ranking as the second most popular podcast overall, just behind The New York Times’ The Daily. This success has been instrumental in establishing Audiochuck as a leader in the podcasting industry, with a network that now includes over 20 weekly and seasonal shows such as The Deck, Counter Clock, Park Predators, and Dark Downeast. The company’s partnership with SiriusXM, which was initially a three-year deal and has since been extended through 2025, has further cemented its reputation as a go-to destination for gripping true-crime content. Audiochuck’s influence extends beyond podcasts, with ventures like the Crime Junkie: Life Rule #10 tour, which will visit 18 cities across the U.S., and its Fan Club subscription app, which offers exclusive content to loyal listeners.
The Chernin Group’s investment in Audiochuck is a strategic move that aligns with its focus on creator-driven media brands and emerging platforms. TCG, which has previously invested in successful ventures like Barstool Sports, Hello Sunshine, and Crunchyroll, sees immense potential in Audiochuck’s ability to connect with audiences through authentic, engaging storytelling. Jesse Jacobs, a founding partner at TCG, praised Flowers and her team for building a “world-class company and brand at the forefront of the future of media.” Jacobs highlighted Audiochuck’s unique ability to distribute content across multiple platforms, including podcasts, social media, digital video, and live events, which he believes is the hallmark of a successful modern media company. TCG’s support will undoubtedly play a crucial role in helping Audiochuck achieve its ambitious goals, including the expansion of its film and TV division and the publication of Flowers’ upcoming thriller, The Missing Half, set to be released in May 2025.
Ashley Flowers’ vision for Audiochuck extends far beyond entertainment. The company has been a steadfast advocate for social justice, donating over $8.5 million to more than 150 nonprofits worldwide. Flowers has also established her own foundation, committing an additional $11 million to philanthropic efforts. This commitment to giving back reflects Flowers’ belief that storytelling should not only captivate audiences but also make a meaningful difference in the world. By using its platform to shed light on important cases and social issues, Audiochuck has built a loyal fan base that resonates with its mission-driven approach. Flowers’ dedication to philanthropy is just one of the many reasons why Audiochuck has earned a reputation as a company that genuinely cares about the stories it tells and the impact they have.
Looking ahead, Audiochuck is poised to enter an exciting new phase of growth. The investment from TCG will enable the company to scale its operations, hire more talent, and explore innovative projects that further solidify its position as a leader in the media industry. With plans to expand its live events lineup, publish new books, and develop film and TV projects, Audiochuck is on track to become a multidimensional media brand with a wide-reaching influence. Flowers and her team are committed to staying true to their roots while pushing the boundaries of what a modern media company can achieve. By leveraging its storytelling prowess and leveraging the support of TCG, Audiochuck is set to continue making waves in the entertainment and media space for years to come.
In a statement, Flowers captured the essence of Audiochuck’s journey, saying, “From launching Crime Junkie to growing our amazing network of shows, the incredible passion of our fans for gripping stories that make a difference has been the heart of everything we do at Audiochuck.” With TCG’s investment, that heart will beat even stronger, fueling a new chapter of growth and innovation for a company that has already achieved so much. As Audiochuck continues to inspire audiences with its storytelling and make a positive impact on the world, it’s clear that the best is yet to come for this dynamic and forward-thinking media company.
