Irish podcast Free State, hosted by former presenter of TV show Ireland Unfiltered Dion Fanning and football analyst Joe Brolly, has joined the Acast Creator Network, the company has announced.
The podcast launched 28 March and features Fanning and Brolly in conversation about a range of topics including sports, politics, and love with a number of high profile guests such as Nigerian princes, former Prime Ministers, ex-convicts, footballers, and more.
“My background is interviewing, and I think our guests on Free State will be part of conversations like no other,” said Fanning. “I think people will be surprised by the Joe Brolly they hear on this podcast too.”
“Hatred of others is on the rise, with some of the most vulnerable human beings targeted for political gain,” said Brolly. “Facts, logic and science are under attack like never before. The only defence against this is critical thinking. We want to explore the world with anger and humour, and empathy. We want to achieve a free state of mind and hope you will join us on the journey.”
As part of the partnership, the Free State podcast will gain access to monetisation tools through the Acast Creator Network including ads and sponsorships, support with growth and marketing, as well as global reach by distributing the series across all major podcast platforms.
Acast is committed to supporting Irish voices in the podcast industry, having recently launched its podcast incubator programme in Ireland which picks three winners who have a chance to win up to €100,000 to start a podcast as well as gain mentorship support from the podcast company.
“Joe and Dion’s calm yet playful take on current affairs is a welcome addition to our Acast roster,” said Acast Ireland creator network director Jennifer Dollard. “We’re looking forward to guiding Free State through its launch and growing the show with the help of the Acast Marketplace. Acast is dedicated to supporting Irish voices, and with our development, we can help introduce listeners to the Free State of mind.”
