Recode Media@Home with SoundCloud CEO Kerry Trainor

SoundCloud CEO Kerry Trainor shares insights on how the company is innovating to support creators and listeners during the pandemic, and how their platform is evolving to adapt to new ways of working and connecting.

Key takeaways
  • SoundCloud is a two-sided network where creators share and connect with listeners and fans.
  • The company’s focus is on providing tools for creators to share their work, monetize it, and distribute it to other platforms.
  • Kerry Trainor notes the importance of acknowledging that everyone’s situation is different and unique, especially during the pandemic.
  • The company is seeing a huge surge of engagement, with creators using SoundCloud to connect with their audiences online.
  • Kerry notes that the company’s licenses are more tuned towards emerging artists and the discovery experience.
  • The pandemic has accelerated growth for SoundCloud, with the company seeing a meaningful acceleration in paying subscribers.
  • Kerry mentions that the company has been proactive about sharing information and checking in with the team during the pandemic, and that they have used video conferencing tools to stay in touch.
  • The company has adapted its learning and development resources to allow teams to take classes or attend conferences online.
  • Kerry notes that the pandemic has forced the company to think creatively about how to work, and that they are learning to prioritize self-care and tools for remote work.
  • The company is exploring video programming and expects it to continue to evolve as a mainstay of the product.
  • Kerry notes that the company is focused on providing a platform for creators to build their fan base and monetize their work, and that they are committed to empowering creators of all levels.