RIVET SMART AUDIO

Rivet Smart Audio, operating as Rivet360, has transitioned from a consumer-facing smart audio platform to a specialized podcast production agency. The company was initially founded as HearHere Radio, Inc. in December 2013 by John MacLeod, an executive with a background at NAVTEQ, Disney, and Sony. It rebranded to Rivet Radio, Inc. in March 2015, focusing on delivering personalized, on-demand audio news, akin to Pandora for radio. The original platform treated audio as data, meta-tagging stories to enable customized distribution to listeners via mobile apps and in-car entertainment systems. Early partnerships included major automotive brands like Jaguar Land Rover and technology firms such as Bosch, alongside media collaborators like The Associated Press. By mid-2015, the company had raised $3.6 million from investors including The Associated Press, Ringleader Ventures, and IrishAngels.

Following a strategic pivot in 2016 to concentrate on the B2B market, the company now operates as Rivet360, an award-winning podcast production agency. The firm offers comprehensive, end-to-end podcasting services for a diverse client base that includes B2B and B2C brands, agencies, political campaigns, and elected officials. The business model is service-based, providing clients with a dedicated production team of journalists and producers for a single, all-inclusive price. This approach contrasts with relying on a fluctuating group of freelancers, ensuring consistent quality and a deeper client relationship.

Rivet360's service suite covers the entire podcast lifecycle, from initial strategy and goal-setting to content distribution and performance analysis. Core services include planning, host training, pre-production reviews, episode recording and editing, distribution to all major podcast players, and marketing support. The company distinguishes itself by offering expert host coaching and strategic guidance throughout the process, moving beyond simple editing to enhance the overall quality and effectiveness of the podcast. Additional services are available, such as creating video trailers, managing YouTube channels, and developing dedicated microsites for the podcasts, providing a full-circle solution for its clients.

Keywords: podcast production agency, corporate podcasting, B2B podcasting, podcast services, branded podcasts, audio content creation, John MacLeod, Rivet Radio, podcast strategy, podcast marketing, end-to-end podcast production, audio branding, political podcasts, professional podcast services, episode editing, host training, podcast distribution, audio for business, content marketing, corporate communications