BPI co-leads Kaleidoscope’s Series A to pioneer a new era in science and tech audio storytelling
Burda Principal Investments (BPI) is excited to announce our co-lead in the Series A round of Kaleidoscope, a New York-based, audio-first media company pioneering a new genre at the intersection of science, technology, and culture. The round was co-led with North Base Media and includes participation from prominent prior investors such as The Raine Group, Tom Freston (MTV), and Joanna Coles (former CCO of Hearst Magazines and The Daily Beast).
“At BPI, we invest in companies building for the future, and Kaleidoscope is doing just that – creating a new category in audio that combines editorial integrity with cultural relevance,” said Christian Teichmann, CEO of Burda Principal Investments. “In a moment when audiences crave clarity around science and technology, Kaleidoscope is uniquely positioned to meet that demand on a global scale.”
Unlocking a new frontier in science and tech storytelling
Founded by Emmy and Peabody-winning producer Oz Woloshyn and former iHeartMedia SVP Mangesh Hattikudur, Kaleidoscope is quickly becoming the definitive destination for gripping, journalistic storytelling in science and technology. Their acclaimed productions include ON Musk featuring Walter Isaacson, The Last Soviet with Lance Bass, and Afghan Star with John Legend.
The company is scaling to meet the increasing appetite for nuanced and compelling science and tech narratives, particularly among globally curious Gen Z and millennial listeners. With this funding, Kaleidoscope will expand its tentpole shows, develop new intellectual property, and adapt existing content for film and television in partnership with major Hollywood studios.
Fuelling demand for clarity in science and innovation
As the global discourse around artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and scientific ethics grows more complex and politically charged, Kaleidoscope is emerging as a trusted voice. Their unique approach fuses editorial rigor with high production value, serving an underserved but growing audience of culturally engaged, educated listeners.
“From AI to biotech, science and technology drive the world we live in, shaping culture and everyday life,” said co-founder Oz Woloshyn. “Gen Z is hungry for this content – and they’re turning to audio as their primary source of news. We’re proud to lead the way with stories that don’t just inform but truly captivate.”
The company’s upcoming slate includes investigative projects in genetic forensics, new collaborations with acclaimed journalists and institutions such as The Atlantic and Bloomberg, and a continued partnership with distribution partner iHeartMedia.
Partnering with a category-defining company
Kaleidoscope exemplifies BPI’s commitment to backing companies that create lasting cultural and technological impact. As audio continues to evolve into a mainstream storytelling medium, we see enormous potential in Kaleidoscope’s ability to shape how the world understands science and innovation.
“We believe Kaleidoscope is building a next-generation media company,” said Friedrich von Wulffen, Principal at BPI. “Their ability to build influential media brands originating from podcasts – and to expand into innovative formats like live events and new business models – reflects a rare blend of editorial excellence, cultural relevance, and global ambition. It’s a perfect fit with our thesis of backing mission-driven teams redefining their industries.”
With this investment, BPI is proud to support Kaleidoscope’s ambitious growth journey and their mission to make science and technology storytelling more accessible, engaging, and globally impactful.
Read more about Kaleidoscope here.
