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Q: Can I read Reddit stories on a podcast without permission?
I'm interested in starting a podcast where I read stories of miracles that people have shared on Reddit. I plan to give credit to the original Reddit authors and provide links to their posts. I don't have any commercial plans for the podcast; it's purely for sharing interesting stories. I haven't contacted any Reddit users or moderators yet and I'm not familiar with Reddit's rules regarding sharing content outside the platform. Should I obtain permission from the users before proceeding with my podcast?
A:
Reddit’s terms of service generally give the platform broad rights to display user content, but that doesn’t automatically mean you have the right to republish it outside of Reddit. Each story belongs to the original poster, and while giving credit is thoughtful, it doesn’t replace permission. Reading their posts aloud on a podcast is considered republishing, which means the safest approach is to ask for consent.
If you reach out to authors and get their approval, you protect yourself from possible complaints or takedown requests later. Many users may be happy to share their stories if credited properly, and getting their permission shows respect for their ownership. Without permission, you run the risk of someone objecting, even if your podcast isn’t for profit.
You can still create your podcast, but it’s wise to build it on cooperation with the people whose stories you want to use. That way, you avoid disputes and make your project more genuine. Asking first may take extra time, but it gives you peace of mind and strengthens the connection between you and your audience.
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