Washington, D.C. – WTOP News is expanding its flagship Top News Podcast to better match how residents of the capital consume information. Beginning later this year, the podcast will deliver 12‑14 episodes each weekday, each about 20 minutes long, with updates refreshed hourly from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.
More frequent, on‑demand coverage
The new format builds on the service’s six‑year history. Originally an automated feed of the first half hour of WTOP’s hourly newscasts, the podcast shifted in 2024 to a manually produced schedule of two daily episodes. The latest iteration blends those approaches, using WTOP’s extensive newsroom resources to provide concise, hourly news briefs while adding a professionally hosted, highly produced experience.
Listeners will also gain access to a video version of each episode, distributed across digital platforms to reach audiences who prefer visual content. “This new podcast represents a natural evolution of the WTOP brand,” said Julie Ziegler, Head of News and Programming for WTOP News. “It meets news consumers where they are – on more platforms than ever before – allowing us to grow our audience and develop new revenue streams.”
Job openings for host‑producers
To support the expanded schedule, WTOP is hiring two full‑time podcast host‑producers. These staff members will lead daily production, serve as the editorial voices of the program, and ensure each episode reflects WTOP’s trusted reporting, original context, and analysis.
Applicants can apply through WTOP’s career page. The positions are intended for experienced journalists who can blend rapid news gathering with clear, engaging storytelling.
Collaboration with Gamut Podcast Network
The project will be developed in partnership with Gamut Podcast Network, the dedicated podcast division of Hubbard Media That Connects. Launched in 2025, Gamut hosts award‑winning shows such as American Nightmares and Behind the Song. The partnership leverages Gamut’s production expertise and distribution capabilities while keeping the content firmly rooted in WTOP’s local news mission.
Gamut’s broader portfolio includes more than 250 national and local podcasts covering sports, news, entertainment, and true crime. Its creator‑first mindset and access to Hubbard’s resources are expected to help the Top News Podcast reach new audiences and generate measurable results for advertisers.
Why the expansion matters for the D.C. region
Washington‑area residents rely on timely, accurate information to navigate a fast‑moving political and economic environment. By offering hourly refreshed news briefs and a video component, WTOP aims to keep listeners informed throughout the workday without requiring them to tune in to traditional radio broadcasts.
The expansion also reflects broader trends in media consumption, where on‑demand audio and video content increasingly dominate. WTOP’s move positions the outlet to remain a leading source of fact‑based news for the nation’s capital while creating new opportunities for local businesses to reach engaged listeners.
About WTOP News
Since 1969, WTOP has been the leading source for news, traffic, and weather in the Washington region, delivering fact‑based reporting across radio, online, and social channels. Owned by Hubbard Media That Connects, WTOP also operates the Federal News Network, a sister service covering national policy and government affairs.
About Gamut Podcast Network
Gamut is Hubbard’s dedicated podcast network, hosting more than 250 shows across a variety of genres. Its portfolio includes flagship programs like American Nightmares and regional sports networks such as SKOR North in Minneapolis‑St. Paul and 312 Sports in Chicago. Gamut focuses on creator‑first development and provides targeted, measurable results for brand partners.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
