TikTok is expanding its role in music and creator-driven content with the launch of a new live podcast series, TikTok In The Mix, according to a report from Variety. The series will debut Thursday, Dec. 11, with Demi Lovato as its first featured guest.
The podcast is structured as a four-episode season of live, 30-minute conversations with major artists and will stream directly on TikTok’s official account. According to Variety, the project will be produced and sponsored by T-Mobile.
Lovato’s episode will be hosted by Trackstar founder Jack Coyne and will include a discussion about the making of her latest album, It’s Not That Deep. The appearance will also feature a segment called the “Booth of Truth,” where Lovato breaks down the meaning behind select lyrics, as well as a moment addressing speculation about a potential collaboration with Zara Larsson. TikTok executives speaking to Variety say that the new series is designed to strengthen the platform’s connection between artists and fans.
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The live podcast push also aligns with TikTok’s broader effort to keep users engaged for longer periods by expanding beyond short-form video. In recent months, the company introduced a range of new features designed to enhance retention and user experience, including well-being tools such as an in-app affirmation journal, guided breathing exercises, meditation prompts, and soothing background sounds.
TikTok has framed these updates as part of an effort to improve user safety and mental health — particularly for younger users — while encouraging people to spend more time within the app’s ecosystem rather than turning to outside platforms.
