According to sources familiar with the matter, Netflix (NFLX.US) is currently negotiating with iHeartMedia to secure exclusive licensing rights for video podcasts, aiming to compete directly with YouTube. iHeartMedia distributes several popular shows, including "The Breakfast Club," "Las Culturistas," "Jay Shetty Podcast," and "Stuff You Should Know." Reports indicate that Netflix seeks exclusive rights to these video programs, which would mean full episodes would no longer be uploaded to YouTube. If an agreement is reached, iHeartMedia may not provide all its podcast content to Netflix.

Additionally, recent sources suggest that Netflix is actively exploring a potential bid for Warner Bros. Discovery's (WBD.US) film and TV production and streaming businesses. During a recent earnings call, Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos stated that while the company does not need acquisitions to achieve its goals, it remains open to all potential opportunities and is interested in intellectual property that could enhance its service's appeal to users. Management has clarified that it has no plans to acquire cable TV channels and intends to allocate excess cash toward other business initiatives.