Austin-based Backyard Ventures is partnering with the Art of Manliness Podcast, a self-improvement show aimed at deepening and improving all areas of men's lives.
The podcast, hosted by Brett McKay, founder and editor-in-chief of The Art of Manliness, hosts personal and weekly interviews with some of the world's most interesting and successful people.
McKay explores topics such as philosophy, health, and paternity through life-changing insights. The reviews describing him as a “virtual mentor” and “talented interviewer” allowed him to create a large, committed audience who listens each week to learn the next lesson to improve their masculinity.
Speaking about the new partnership, McKay said: The team impressed me with their strategic approach and a deep understanding of the podcast market. But what sets them apart from the pack is the white glove treatments they offer shows on the roster.
“We don't feel like 'just another show' with a huge anonymous portfolio. Backyard Ventures is excited about what we're doing with AOM and has worked hard to find advertisers alongside our audience and brands.
“This collaboration is an exciting new chapter in the art history of the 15-year Manliness Podcast. By working with Backyard Ventures, we can continue to create shows of the quality our listeners have come to expect, partnering with brands that resonate with our audience.”
Brett McKay started at the University of Oklahoma and earned his degree in classical writing before completing his law degree from the University of Tulsa.
Meanwhile, in a local bookstore, he began writing down ideas for a version of “masculinity” when inspired by the lack of realism in men's magazines.
AOM quickly became one of the biggest magazines in the men's lifestyle space, achieving over 10 million page views per month. With great success, McKay was able to develop his company into the multifaceted brand we see today.
In this new partnership, Backyard Ventures will help podcasts expand their brand and increase their visibility. This opens the door to new opportunities such as strategic partnerships and enhanced digital campaigns aimed at promoting the show's mission to empower audiences.
Speaking about the partnership, Matt Cisneros, founder of Backyard Ventures, said:
“I've been an avid follower of their content for years, so partnering with Brett and the incredible team of AOM is incredibly exciting.
“We are excited to work together to build and expand meaningful partnerships for their teams and look forward to seeing great success in 2025 and beyond.”
