This episode opens with a major industry shift: Tim Cook’s announcement that he is stepping down as CEO of Apple in September 2026. The team discusses the transition plan, the elevation of John Ternus and Johny Srouji, and what this "hardware-first" leadership style might mean for the future of Apple devices and services.
The conversation then pivots to the technical rollout of HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) video support on Apple Podcasts. Joined by OG co-hosts Mark Asquith and Danny Brown, the team breaks down how HLS differs from standard video files and open standards. They explain how adaptive bitrate streaming ensures listeners stay connected even on poor data connections and why audio-only creators shouldn’t feel pressured to pivot to video.
Finally, the group tackles the nuance of accessibility and inclusion in podcasting. They compare listening to an audiobook to reading with your ears, emphasizing that the goal is always to deliver the message to the audience wherever they are. The team shares insights on the power of Apple's new video implementation and how it provides more expansive ways for audiences to engage with content.
More Co-hosts!
- Mark Asquith: Founder of Captivate and original co-host of In & Around Podcasting.
- Danny Brown: Head of Support and Experience at Captivate and original co-host of In & Around Podcasting.
Links to interesting things from this episode
Everything related to the Captivate Video Podcasting Support Rollout
Helpdesk Articles
Blog
People & Shows
- Tim Cook: Apple Executive Chairman (formerly CEO - until Sept).
- John Ternus: Apple CEO (effective Sept 2026).
- Johny Srouji: Chief Hardware Officer at Apple.
- Marco Arment: Creator of Overcast and co-host of ATP.
- Accidental Tech Podcast (ATP): https://atp.fm/
- Robb Dunewood: Daily Tech News Network & The Tech Jawn
- Anna DeShawn: Ambie Award winner and founder of The Qube App. https://theqube.app/ (If you are a Black or Brown podcaster submit your show!)
Apps & Technology
- HLS (HTTP Live Streaming): Technical standard for video delivery.
- Apple Podcasts: Support for HLS video in iOS 26.4+.
- The Qube App: A database for Black and Brown podcasters. https://theqube.app/
- Captivate Growth Labs: Educational resources for podcasters. https://www.captivate.fm/growth-labs
Articles & Episodes
In & Around Podcasting is a podcast industry podcast started by Mark Asquith and Danny Brown and now hosted by Elsie Escobar and Rob Walch, continuing its mission as an industry show that belongs to the whole community.
If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave us a rating or review on your favourite podcast app! You can also drop us a tip at https://www.inandaroundpodcasting.com/support, too!
If you're an independent creator who would like to co-host with us, please let us know by emailing the show! community@captivate.fm.
Please tell your friends that the show is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, plus wherever else they may listen to their podcasts.
If you'd like your podcast trailer featuring in our "Wave File" segment, submit it via this quick contact form, please.
The podcast is also available at In & Around Podcasting.
This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:
OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy
