TikTok is boosting its engagement in music and content created by users by launching a fresh live podcast series, TikTok In The Mix, according to Variety. The series is set to debut on Thursday, Dec. 11, with Demi Lovato as its inaugural guest.

The podcast will feature a season of four episodes consisting of live, 30-minute discussions with notable artists, streamed directly on TikTok’s official account. Variety highlights that T-Mobile will be the producer and sponsor of this project.

Lovato’s episode will be hosted by Trackstar founder Jack Coyne and will cover a conversation about her most recent album, It’s Not That Deep. It will also incorporate a “Booth of Truth” segment, during which Lovato elucidates the significance of certain lyrics and addresses rumors regarding a possible collaboration with Zara Larsson. TikTok officials informed Variety that the series is designed to reinforce the bond between artists and their fans.

This live podcast endeavor aligns with TikTok’s wider approach to keep users engaged for longer periods by branching out from short-form video. Recently, the platform rolled out new features aimed at improving retention and user experience, including well-being tools such as an in-app affirmation journal, guided breathing activities, meditation prompts, and calming background sounds.

TikTok has framed these enhancements as initiatives to bolster user safety and mental wellness, especially among younger audiences, while promoting users to linger longer within the app’s ecosystem instead of turning to external platforms.