Ashley Flowers’ Audiochuck Faces $20 Million Lawsuit Over Podcast Ad Revenue

Audiochuck, the podcast network founded by Ashley Flowers, is facing a major lawsuit. The hosts of its popular show “Anatomy of Murder” have filed a $20 million complaint. They allege the network withheld their fair share of advertising money.

The legal action was unsealed in a New York federal court. It centers on Audiochuck’s former exclusive advertising deal with SiriusXM. The hosts claim this partnership led to a severe and unexplained drop in their revenue.

Steep Revenue Decline Follows SiriusXM Partnership

According to the lawsuit, ad revenue for “Anatomy of Murder” plummeted right after the SiriusXM deal began. The complaint states revenue fell to $25,000 in January 2022. This was a sharp drop from $73,600 the previous December.

This decline happened even though download numbers remained steady. The hosts, Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi and Scott Weinberger, challenge why their earnings fell so drastically. Audiochuck reportedly has a minimum revenue guarantee in its deal with the satellite radio giant.

When revenue did not recover, Audiochuck offered the hosts an advance. This money was structured as a recoupable debt. The company later offered to forgive this debt in exchange for a contract extension.

Allegations of Misappropriated Funds and Lack of Transparency

The legal dispute deepened with claims of misappropriated funds. The hosts allege Audiochuck improperly deducted its agent’s fees from shared revenue. These deductions were not permitted under their contract.

They discovered the issue accidentally. An Audiochuck representative allegedly flashed a spreadsheet on a video call showing the line item. When confronted, the company initially denied the practice but later conceded.

This incident, the lawsuit says, “sowed distrust.” Audiochuck has since moved its entire network from SiriusXM to Tubi. The company raised $40 million to grow its business independently.

This lawsuit highlights the complex financial dealings behind hit podcasts. The outcome could set a significant precedent for host-network relationships across the booming audio industry.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Ashley Flowers?

Ashley Flowers is the founder of Audiochuck and host of the hit podcast “Crime Junkie.” She has built a podcasting empire focused on true crime and mystery content. Her company is based in Indianapolis and produces over 18 original shows.

What is the “Anatomy of Murder” podcast?

“Anatomy of Murder” is a true crime podcast distributed by Audiochuck. It is hosted by former prosecutor Anna-Sigga Nicolazzi and investigative journalist Scott Weinberger. Each episode delves into the details of a single murder case.

What does the lawsuit claim?

The lawsuit claims Audiochuck breached its contract by shortchanging the hosts on ad revenue. It also alleges the network misappropriated funds by deducting its agent fees from shared money. The plaintiffs are seeking at least $20 million in damages.

How has Audiochuck responded?

Audiochuck has vigorously refuted the claims. A company spokesperson stated they will defend themselves in court. The network maintains its position against the allegations.

What was the SiriusXM deal?

In 2021, Audiochuck signed an exclusive advertising deal with SiriusXM. The agreement gave SiriusXM exclusive ad sales rights for “Crime Junkie” and all other Audiochuck network shows. The deal has since ended, with Audiochuck moving to Tubi.