One of Australia’s most recognisable comedy duos is making its return to audio, with The Inspired Unemployed confirming a new partnership with LiSTNR ahead of a podcast relaunch in April.
The deal will see Matt Ford and Jack Steele bring their hit podcast to Australia’s leading commercial podcast network, marking what both parties describe as a new chapter for the duo after a hiatus since their last episode in August 2024.
A major move after a short break
Since launching, The Inspired Unemployed podcast has built a substantial following, extending the duo’s viral social media success into a sustained audio presence.
Known for their unfiltered banter, outrageous stories and distinctly Australian humour, Ford and Steele have translated their online appeal into a multi-platform brand spanning digital, social, brand partnerships and television.
@theinspiredunemployed Gotta love the old weekend maintenance street party #oneinallin #dominoeffect #keepingupwiththejoness ♬ original sound – T.I.U
Their return under the LiSTNR banner includes fresh episodes set to drop on Wednesday, April 1, via the free LiSTNR app and other major podcast platforms.
The duo bring significant audience scale to the network, with a combined 4.2 million followers across Instagram and TikTok.
Their ability to resonate with younger demographics while maintaining mainstream appeal has positioned the podcast as a strong commercial property within Australia’s audio landscape.
Ford said: “Honestly, we’re bloody pumped. Our podcast has always just been us talking rubbish and somehow people keep listening, which is unreal. Joining LiSTNR feels like a big step for the show and gives us the chance to make it even bigger. The support from listeners since day one has been insane, so we’re keen to keep doing what we do, just on a bigger scale.”
Steele added: “It still blows our minds that a podcast that started as two mates having a chat has grown into what it is now. The audience we’ve built is everything to us, and this move is all about giving them more, more episodes, more stupid stories, and more of the stuff they actually tune in for. We’re frothing to get stuck into this next chapter with LiSTNR and see where we can take it.”
LiSTNR doubles down on comedy
For LiSTNR, the signing reinforces its strategy of securing high-profile, audience-led talent across its original podcast slate.
Sam Cavanagh Image: LiSTNR
Sam Cavanagh, Head of Content – LiSTNR Original Podcasts, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome The Inspired Unemployed to LiSTNR. Matt and Jack have built one of Australia’s most recognisable and successful comedy brands. Their fiercely dedicated fanbase has waited patiently for the podcast to return, and we’re pumped to help them make this next season even bigger and better.”
The partnership also opens new commercial opportunities, with the podcast set to leverage LiSTNR’s AdTech Hub and broader advertising infrastructure.
Top Image: Jack Steele (Top) and Matt Ford (Bottom)