6 podcast hosts and their massive paychecks: From Joe Rogan to Meghan Markle
6 podcast hosts and their eye-popping paychecks
Top stars from comedy, sports, Hollywood, and other fields are earning significant sums while sharing their stories through podcasts. Streaming platforms like Spotify, SiriusXM, and Amazon are willing to pay a premium to secure high-profile talent, as podcast consumption grows alongside music, TV, and movies. For instance, Jason and Travis Kelce are said to have secured a deal exceeding $100 million for their 'New Heights' podcast, according to the Daily Beast. Here’s a look at what some of the leading podcast hosts earn while delivering new content to their listeners.
1. Alex Cooper
In August 2024, Alex Cooper, host of the 'Call Her Daddy' podcast, signed a major contract with SiriusXM. As reported by CNN, the multi-year deal is worth $125 million over three years. This agreement gives SiriusXM exclusive rights to advertising and distribution, as well as access to additional content and events. The deal is more than double the value of her previous contract with Spotify. SiriusXM also acquired exclusive worldwide rights to sell ads for Cooper's Unwell Network, which includes the podcasts 'In Your Dreams with Owen Thiele,' 'Pretty Lonesome with Madeline Argy,' 'Hot Mess with Alix Earle,' and 'Boyfriend Material with Harry Jowsey.'
2. Jason Kelce and Travis Kelce
Reports indicate that NFL brothers Jason Kelce and Travis Kelce have secured a nine-figure contract with podcast studio Wondery for their popular 'New Heights' podcast. The deal includes worldwide distribution rights, ad sales representation, rights to past episodes, and the opportunity to produce international podcast adaptations. The Kelce brothers shared their excitement with The Hollywood Reporter, saying, "We love this show and the fanbase that has grown with us over the last two seasons. We are thrilled to start Season 3 — see you soon, 92%ers!"
3. Joe Rogan
The Wall Street Journal reports that in February 2024, Spotify and Joe Rogan reached a new deal potentially worth up to $250 million for 'The Joe Rogan Experience.' The agreement allows the show to be available on other platforms after its exclusive four-year run on Spotify. Additionally, Spotify will handle distribution and ad sales for the podcast on various platforms, including YouTube.
4. Dax Shepard
In July 2024, the 'Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard' podcast signed an exclusive distribution and ad-sales deal with Amazon's podcast subsidiary, Wondery. The agreement includes the creation of two new podcasts and one livestream annually, as well as a first-look option for any future podcasts produced by Dax Shepard. While the exact value of the deal was not disclosed, the Wall Street Journal estimated it to be around $80 million.
5. Meghan Markle
At the end of 2020, Meghan Markle signed a $20 million deal with Spotify after stepping down from her royal roles. The partnership, as stated on the Archewell Audio website, was designed to "spotlight diverse perspectives and voices" and "produce programming that uplifts and entertains audiences around the world." Meghan Markle later launched the now-defunct 'Archetypes,' where she interviewed various guests, including Mindy Kaling and Mariah Carey. In February 2024, Markle teamed up with Lemonada to debut a new podcast.
6. Bill Simmons
In 2020, Bill Simmons signed a five-year contract with Spotify as part of the acquisition of 'The Ringer' for $250 million. His contract is set to expire in early 2025. Simmons was subsequently named Head of Podcast Innovation and Monetization at Spotify's parent organization. There have been ongoing discussions about a potential new agreement between Simmons and Spotify. A Spotify representative told the New York Post saying, "Spotify looks forward to the continuation of this partnership and has no plans to sell The Ringer."
