Actors Sean Astin and Penn Badgley will headline Podcast Movement Evolutions during SXSW, scheduled from March 13 to 15 in Austin’s Sky Box venue. The event focuses on podcast innovation, where Sean Astin SXSW keynote serves as a key highlight for creators and fans alike.
Star-Studded Performances and Notable Speakers Join the Festival
Penn Badgley, known for his roles in “You” and “Gossip Girl,” will participate in a live performance with Companion, contributing to the weekend’s lineup alongside Maya Hawke’s live recording of “Broken Record.” Sean Astin, famous for “The Lord of the Rings,” “Stranger Things,” “Rudy,” and “The Goonies,” will deliver the Sunday keynote. Astin also serves as President of SAG-AFTRA, bringing perspectives from both acting and union leadership to the closing day of the event.
The program will also feature a keynote by Steve McLendon, YouTube’s Product Lead for podcast initiatives, who manages podcast discovery, audience engagement, and creator tools on the platform.
Apple and Companion Highlight New Video Podcast Technologies and Live Sessions
Apple Podcasts will use the occasion to showcase its new video podcast experience powered by HLS technology, enabling creators enhanced control over distribution and monetization, including dynamic video advertising collaborated with hosting providers and ad platforms.
On March 14, Companion will host “Companion Presents: In Good Company,” featuring an acoustic performance by Andy Grammer and conversations with creators from shows like Science and the City, We Love You, In The Hyphen, Ayana Butterfly, and JJ and The Mood.
Program Kickoff and Closing Events Anchor Community Engagement
The event opens with remarks from Tom Fox, founder of The Compliance Podcast Network and the organizer behind the community-driven session honorarium program. The gathering will conclude with The Independent Creator Awards Show from Oxford Road, hosted by Killer Mike.
Podcasting is evolving faster than ever across audio, video, live experiences, and creator-led media,
said Bryan Barletta, Partner at Sounds Profitable and President at Podcast Movement.
Podcast Movement Evolutions at SXSW is where the future of the medium comes into focus and where the people building it come together.
— Bryan Barletta, Partner at Sounds Profitable and President at Podcast Movement
Significance of Podcast Movement Evolutions at SXSW
This event gathers influential figures across the podcasting industry, spotlighting advancements like video podcasts and creator-driven experiences under one roof. With leaders such as Sean Astin offering keynote insights and Apple unveiling new technologies, Podcast Movement Evolutions positions itself as a critical forum for understanding where podcasting is headed. Attendees and creators can expect fresh opportunities for growth, collaboration, and innovation in podcasting’s evolving landscape.
