Podcast Summary: Decoder with Nilay Patel

Episode: Announcing an ad-free Decoder feed for Verge subscribers

Date: October 15, 2025
Host: Nilay Patel
Podcast: Decoder by The Verge

Episode Overview

This episode is a brief announcement about an exciting update for loyal listeners of The Verge’s podcasts, specifically Decoder, Version History, and The Vergecast. Host Nilay Patel shares the launch of an ad-free podcast experience for paid Verge subscribers and explains how listeners can access this new benefit. The episode is concise, focused on communicating the value of membership, and invites non-members to consider joining for an enhanced listening experience and other perks.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Launch of Ad-Free Podcast Feeds

• New benefit: Paid subscribers to The Verge can now listen to Decoder, Version History, and The Vergecast without advertisements.
• This change is positioned as a significant improvement, catering to the preferences of listeners who want a seamless, uninterrupted podcast experience.

2. How to Access the Ad-Free Feeds

• Simple opt-in process: Subscribers are directed to their account settings to activate the ad-free podcast feed.
• The message underscores accessibility: “Just head to your account settings page to opt in and start listening without ads.” (A, 00:05)

3. Encouragement to Subscribe

• Nilay Patel underscores inclusivity by addressing both current subscribers and potential new members.
• Non-subscribers: Clear guidance on how to sign up and a reminder of the broader benefits – including exclusive newsletters and unlimited access to all published content.
• “Not a member of the Verge yet? No worries. You can sign up at theverge.com/subscribe to get ad-free podcasts plus other perks…” (A, 00:15)

Notable Quotes

• On how to activate ad-free feeds:

  “Just head to your account settings page to opt in and start listening without ads.”
  — Host Nilay Patel (A), 00:05

• Invitation to join The Verge:

  “Not a member of the Verge yet? No worries. You can sign up at theverge.com/subscribe to get ad-free podcasts plus other perks like exclusive newsletters and unlimited access to everything we publish.”
  — Host Nilay Patel (A), 00:15

Memorable Moments & Timestamps

• 00:00: Announcement of ad-free podcast feeds for paid subscribers.
• 00:10: Step-by-step: Go to account settings to activate the ad-free experience.
• 00:15: Friendly pitch for non-subscribers to join and enjoy expanded benefits.

Episode Tone & Language

• The tone is upbeat, straightforward, and reader-focused, reflective of The Verge’s accessible style.
• Nilay Patel uses inclusive, inviting language: “No worries,” and “Just head to your account settings...” making the process approachable for listeners of all backgrounds.

Summary

This episode is a short, listener-oriented update offering a clear, easy-to-follow announcement about the new ad-free podcast benefit for subscribers. Nilay Patel keeps the message succinct, provides actionable steps, and conveys excitement about giving subscribers a more enjoyable listening experience — all while maintaining The Verge’s signature friendly and forward-thinking voice.