If you’re a Heavyweight fan, that’s the podcast in which host Jonathan Goldstein helps people confront unresolved moments of their past, the question might be occurring to you: where is that thing going?
Well, after being cancelled in late 2023, Heavyweight has some incredible news: it’s found a new home at Pushkin Industries.
From Gimlet to Spotify and Back Again?
Heavyweight, which was launched in 2016 by Gimlet Media, was widely praised for its emotionally resonant and heartfelt storytelling. Goldstein’s work was a critical and listener favourite for over eight seasons, due in no small part to his unique blend of empathy, humour, and narrative craft. It was even one of The New York Times’ best podcasts of 2023.
But ultimatel,y when Spotify took over Gimlet, that was the time when the company decided not to renew Heavyweight beyond its eighth season. The series was officially cancelled in late 2023.
A Home at Pushkin Industries
In February 2025, fans received some good news: Heavyweight would be coming back, this time brought to you from Pushkin Industries, the media company co-founded by Malcolm Gladwell.
The move marks a new stage for the podcast, now supported by a company known for thoughtful, narrative-oriented audio productions.
The deal is not your standard big-advance buyout. Instead, Pushkin has negotiated a revenue-sharing agreement that reflects long-term creative commitment as opposed to short-term fees. The episodes will also be available across the iHeartPodcasts network, making it easier for past fans and new listeners to share in the podcast event.
Why This Relocation Matters
For me, this relaunch is a homecoming. Following the abrupt drop on Spotify, Heavyweight being picked up by Pushkin, an organization all about the storytelling pedigree, confirms its place in the narrative elite of podcasting. Listeners can expect new episodes to follow later in 2025, as early as the spring or fall.
In addition, the Pushkin administration was enthusiastic about the partnership. Their CEO, Gretta Cohn, emphasized the distinctive nature of the podcast and its emotional impact, describing it as an individual and extraordinary piece of work that is particularly loved and being brought into the Pushkin family with pride.
What Comes Next?
So yes, The Heavyweight Podcast has found greener pastures. Fans can expect new seasons produced by Pushkin, brought to you via familiar distribution channels, based on the same honest storytelling that made Heavyweight beloved in the first place.
While Jonathan Goldstein and company gear up for this new chapter, the podcast world can give a collective sigh of relief. A podcast that had the power to help listeners reflect, heal, and laugh again is back, and thanks to the new hands in control of it, people are waiting to see what happens next.