The podcasting industry has witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity and profitability, with top creators raking in millions annually. As the landscape of digital media evolves, podcasts have become a lucrative platform for entertainers, experts, and influencers to showcase their talents and connect with audiences worldwide. The highest paid podcasters of 2024 have capitalized on this trend, leveraging their unique voices and engaging content to build substantial empires.
From comedy and true crime to finance and self-improvement, the top-earning podcasters cover a diverse range of topics that resonate with listeners. This list delves into the success stories of industry giants like Joe Rogan, whose net worth has skyrocketed, and rising stars such as the hosts of My Favorite Murder. It also explores how podcasts like Armchair Expert and The Dave Ramsey Show have transformed their hosts into household names. By examining these top-grossing shows, we gain insight into the factors that drive podcast revenue and the strategies that have helped these creators climb to the pinnacle of the industry.
Joe Rogan – The Joe Rogan Experience
Image Source: Spotify
Joe Rogan’s podcast empire has grown exponentially since its inception in 2009. “The Joe Rogan Experience” has become one of the highest paid podcasts, with over 200 million monthly downloads. This success led to a groundbreaking deal with Spotify in 2020, initially reported to be worth USD 100 million. However, it was later revealed that the agreement was actually valued at USD 200 million over three years.
Joe Rogan’s podcast empire
Rogan’s show covers a wide range of topics, from comedy and mixed martial arts to science and technology. His unique interviewing style and diverse guest list have contributed to his massive popularity. The podcast’s success has made Rogan one of the top paid podcasters, with his net worth estimated at USD 200 million.
Controversial topics and guests
The Joe Rogan Experience has not been without its share of controversies. Rogan has faced criticism for hosting guests with controversial views and discussing sensitive topics. In early 2022, Spotify removed 113 episodes of the podcast due to concerns about insensitive language and perceived racist undertones. Despite these challenges, Rogan’s audience has remained loyal, and his show continues to be one of the most popular podcasts globally.
Spotify deal and earnings
In February 2024, Rogan and Spotify reached a new multi-year deal potentially . This agreement allows the podcast to be distributed on other platforms like YouTube and iTunes, expanding its reach even further. The deal includes an upfront payment and a share of ad revenue from these additional platforms, solidifying Rogan’s position as one of the highest paid podcasters in the industry.worth up to USD 250 million
Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark – My Favorite Murder
Image Source: My Favorite Murder
“My Favorite Murder” has become a true crime phenomenon since its inception in 2015. The podcast, hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, has captured the attention of millions of listeners, making it one of the highest paid podcasts in the industry. With an estimated , it ranked as the seventh-most-popular podcast on Apple Podcasts in 2018, surpassing well-established programs. The show’s success has led to a lucrative deal with podcast publisher Stitcher, .35 million downloads per monthworth at least USD 10 million
Loyal fan base and live shows
The podcast has cultivated a dedicated community of “Murderinos,” as their fans are affectionately called. This loyal following has translated into sold-out live events, with the hosts performing 40 live shows in a single year. The duo’s popularity has extended beyond audio content, as they co-authored a New York Times bestseller titled “Stay Sexy and Don’t Get Murdered,” a nod to their show’s catchphrase.
Merchandise and book deals
Kilgariff and Hardstark have leveraged their success to create a thriving merchandise line. Fans can purchase a wide range of “My Favorite Murder” branded items, including t-shirts, stickers, wall art, and home decor. The podcast’s catchphrases and imagery have become popular among true crime enthusiasts, contributing to the hosts’ earnings. In 2019, “My Favorite Murder” was estimated to have made around USD 15 million. The podcast’s success has also led to the creation of Exactly Right, their own podcast network. This venture has allowed them to greenlight other shows and expand their influence in the podcasting world. In a groundbreaking move, Amazon reportedly paid to Exactly Right Media for distribution and advertising sales rights to their podcast portfolio, including “My Favorite Murder”.more than USD 100 million
Dave Ramsey – The Dave Ramsey Show
Image Source: Ramsey Solutions
Financial advice empire
Dave Ramsey has built a formidable financial advice empire since 1992, when he started on a single Nashville radio station. His show, “The Dave Ramsey Show,” has grown to reach over 18 million combined weekly listeners. Ramsey’s practical advice on life and money has remained consistent throughout the years, helping millions of people navigate their financial challenges.
Radio show turned podcast
The transition from radio to podcast has been seamless for Ramsey. “The Dave Ramsey Show” podcast is now one of the highest paid podcasts, estimated to generate around USD 10 million in revenue. The show’s format includes three one-hour episodes released daily, covering a wide range of financial topics. Ramsey and his co-hosts offer direct, sometimes harsh advice to callers seeking guidance on getting out of debt and building wealth.
Books and courses revenue
Ramsey’s empire extends beyond broadcasting. He has authored seven bestselling books, including “Baby Steps Millionaires” and “Smart Money Smart Kids,” priced at USD 19.99 and USD 17.99 respectively. His company, Ramsey Solutions, offers various courses and programs, such as Financial Peace University, available for USD 99.99. These educational resources contribute significantly to Ramsey’s status as one of the highest paid podcasters.
Ramsey’s influence in the personal finance world is undeniable. His podcast, books, and courses have helped countless individuals and families achieve financial freedom. The success of “The Dave Ramsey Show” and its associated products has solidified Ramsey’s position as a top-grossing podcaster and financial guru in the industry.
Celebrity interviews and conversations
Dax Shepard’s “Armchair Expert” podcast has become one of the highest paid podcasts, featuring a diverse array of celebrity guests and thought-provoking conversations. The show, which debuted in 2018, has aired with notable figures from various fields. Guests have included former President Barack Obama, Prince Harry, Hillary Clinton, Trevor Noah, Stacey Abrams, Bill Gates, and Dr. Sanjay Gupta, among others. Shepard’s unique interviewing style and ability to engage with guests from all walks of life have contributed to the podcast’s immense popularity and financial success.over 600 interviews
Advertising revenue and sponsorships
The “Armchair Expert” podcast has secured lucrative advertising deals and sponsorships, solidifying its position among the highest paid podcasts. In a groundbreaking move, Amazon’s Wondery podcast division landed an exclusive distribution and ad-sales deal with Dax Shepard, . This deal encompasses not only the podcast’s distribution but also merchandise rights and the development of new shows. The partnership with Wondery has opened up new avenues for revenue generation, including the ability to and create translated versions of the podcast for a global audience.valued at approximately USD 80.00 millionlaunch video episodes
Expansion into video content
As part of the Wondery deal, “Armchair Expert” is set to expand into video content, further increasing its reach and potential for revenue growth. The agreement grants Wondery the rights to launch video episodes of the podcast for the first time. This move aligns with the growing trend of podcasts expanding beyond audio platforms to include video channels, which has been shown to increase audience engagement and attract more advertisers. The addition of video content is expected to enhance the podcast’s appeal to both listeners and sponsors, potentially leading to even higher earnings for Dax Shepard and his team.
Bill Simmons – The Bill Simmons Podcast
Image Source: The Ringer
Sports and pop culture commentary
Bill Simmons, a seasoned sports writer and commentator, has established himself as one of the highest paid podcasters with “The Bill Simmons Podcast.” Known for his engaging interviews, witty banter, and insightful analysis, Simmons covers a wide range of topics, including sports, entertainment, politics, and technology. His distinctive voice, vast knowledge, and sharp wit captivate listeners, making each episode a compelling experience. The show’s success also stems from its diverse range of high-profile guests, including athletes, actors, and industry experts, adding depth and variety to the discussions.
The Ringer podcast network
Simmons founded The Ringer, a sports and pop culture website and podcast network, in 2016. While the website initially struggled, its podcast business has thrived, with The Bill Simmons Podcast consistently ranking in Apple’s top 25 podcasts. The flagship program alone generated around USD 7.00 million in revenue last year. The Ringer’s podcast network has grown significantly, now home to 26 podcasts with over 32 million downloads. Spotify recognized the potential of The Ringer’s podcast empire and acquired the company for USD 250.00 million, solidifying Simmons’ position among the top paid podcasters.
HBO collaborations and projects
In addition to his podcast success, Simmons has maintained a strong relationship with HBO. He continues to create and produce sports-themed content across the network’s portfolio, including series, films, and documentaries. His first HBO documentary, “Andre the Giant,” became the most-watched documentary in HBO Sports history with nearly 7 million viewers across linear and digital platforms. Simmons is also expanding The Ringer into films, with plans to announce his first slate of scripted and non-scripted projects. Furthermore, he’s collaborating with HBO on a six-part docuseries about the world of music, set to air in 2021, focusing on pivotal moments for popular artists, iconic albums, or the music business as a whole.
Image Source: Patreon
Political commentary and satire
Chapo Trap House has become one of the highest paid podcasts in the industry, offering a unique blend of political commentary and satire. Launched in March 2016, the show is primarily hosted by Will Menaker, along with Felix Biederman, Matt Christman, and Amber A’Lee Frost. The podcast has gained a significant following for its democratic-socialist perspective and sharp critiques of both the Republican and Democratic parties, particularly the centrist wing of the latter.
Patreon subscription model
The show’s financial success stems largely from its Patreon subscription model. As of September 2023, Chapo Trap House is the third highest-grossing user on Patreon, earning over USD 180,000 per month. This impressive figure places them among the top paid podcasters in the industry. Subscribers who contribute at least USD 5.00 per month gain access to additional weekly premium bonus episodes, providing a steady stream of revenue for the show.
Live shows and book sales
Chapo Trap House has expanded its reach beyond the podcast format. During the 2020 United States presidential election cycle, the show morphed into a touring political rally, hosting large live shows in early Democratic Party primary states. These events allowed the hosts to connect with their audience in person and further solidify their position among the highest paid podcasters.
In addition to live performances, the Chapo Trap House team authored a satirical book titled “The Chapo Guide to Revolution: A Manifesto Against Logic, Facts, and Reason.” Published in August 2018, the book debuted on The New York Times Best Seller list at number 6 under the Hardcover Non-Fiction category. This success in book sales has contributed to the podcast’s overall earnings and cemented its place among the top grossing podcasts in the industry.
Ben Shapiro – The Ben Shapiro Show
Image Source: The Daily Wire
Conservative political commentary
Ben Shapiro has established himself as one of the highest paid podcasters with his show, “The Ben Shapiro Show.” Known for his conservative political commentary, Shapiro has built a significant following and financial success through his podcast. The show consistently ranks in the top 10 news podcasts on both Spotify and Apple, cementing its position among the top grossing podcasts in the industry.
Daily Wire media network
Shapiro co-founded The Daily Wire, a conservative media company, in 2015. The company has experienced remarkable growth, with its annual revenues exceeding USD 100.00 million for the first time in early 2022. The Daily Wire has expanded beyond podcasting to include various media ventures, such as a video on demand platform called DailyWire+, launched in June 2022. This platform features Daily Wire content, including podcasts and video productions, further diversifying the company’s revenue streams.
Advertising and merchandise revenue
The Daily Wire’s success extends to its merchandise and advertising efforts. In 2023, the company generated USD 22.00 million from commerce alone. A significant portion of this revenue came from the Jeremy’s Razors brand, which brought in more than USD 19.00 million in 2023, up from USD 10.00 million in 2022. The company’s merchandise store, featuring conservative-themed products, contributed over USD 3.00 million to the total commerce revenue.
Shapiro’s podcast and The Daily Wire’s media network have proven to be highly profitable ventures. The company finished 2023 with a profit and more than USD 200.00 million in top-line revenue. This financial success has solidified Ben Shapiro’s position as one of the highest paid podcasters in the industry, showcasing the potential for podcast earnings and the growing influence of conservative media platforms.
Pat Flynn – Smart Passive Income
Image Source: Smart Passive Income
Online business and entrepreneurship advice
Pat Flynn has established himself as one of the highest paid podcasters through his show “Smart Passive Income.” Flynn’s podcast focuses on providing valuable insights and strategies for online business and entrepreneurship. His approach involves sharing free, in-depth tutorials and advice, demonstrating how to achieve success without relying on paid tools or services. This strategy has helped Flynn build trust with his audience and position himself as an authority in the field.
Course sales and affiliate marketing
Flynn’s success as one of the top paid podcasters stems from his diverse income streams. He has generated significant revenue through course sales and affiliate marketing. In 2016, Flynn’s bestseller “Will It Fly?” not only impacted the book community but also led to the creation of a companion course, further boosting his earnings. Flynn’s podcast generates income through three main channels: affiliate marketing, promoting his own products, and podcast advertising.
Multiple podcast ventures
Flynn, one of the highest-paid podcasters, has expanded his reach through multiple ventures, including his main show, “Smart Passive Income,” which focuses on online business and passive income strategies. By launching niche-specific podcasts, he has tapped into various audience segments and boosted his revenue. Flynn’s transparency, including sharing income reports, has helped build a loyal following and solidify his position among the top-earning podcasters.
Tim Ferriss – The Tim Ferriss Show
Image Source: Tim Ferriss
Self-improvement and productivity focus
Tim Ferriss, one of the highest paid podcasters, launched “The Tim Ferriss Show” on April 22, 2014. The podcast quickly became a central part of his career and work, focusing on self-improvement and productivity. Ferriss’s approach involves deconstructing world-class performers from various fields, extracting their tactics, tools, and routines for listeners to apply in their own lives. The show covers topics such as favorite books, morning routines, exercise habits, and time-management tricks, providing practical advice and actionable takeaways for personal and professional growth.
Best-selling books and speaking engagements
Ferriss has authored five best-selling books, with his most acclaimed work, “The 4-Hour Workweek,” selling over a million copies and developing a cult following. This book has inspired countless individuals to pursue entrepreneurship and seek financial freedom. Ferriss’s blog shares insights from his books, further expanding his influence. His success as an author has led to speaking engagements where he shares his knowledge on achieving work-life balance and financial success.
Diverse guest interviews
“The Tim Ferriss Show” features interviews with a wide range of successful individuals, including actors, comedians, and influencers. Notable guests have included Arnold Schwarzenegger, Kevin Hart, Jocko Willink, Tony Robbins, and Peter Thiel. The podcast has amassed over 600 episodes and has been downloaded more than 700 million times. Ferriss’s ability to attract high-profile guests and his engaging interview style have contributed to the show’s popularity and financial success. On average, each episode earns USD 50,000 from advertisements and sponsors, with potential earnings reaching up to USD 100,000 for longer interviews with multiple sponsors.
Joe Rogan – The Joe Rogan Experience
Image Source: www.wtfpod.com
Long-form celebrity interviews
Marc Maron’s “WTF with Marc Maron” podcast has become a cornerstone of the comedy industry and one of the highest paid podcasts. Known for its in-depth, candid conversations with celebrity guests, the show has featured an impressive array of personalities from various fields. Maron’s ability to create a comfortable environment for guests has led to thought-provoking discussions that captivate listeners. The podcast’s success is evident in its staggering numbers, with .55 million listens per year
Comedy industry insights
As one of the top paid podcasters, Maron has leveraged his extensive experience in the comedy world to provide unique insights into the industry. His show has become a platform for both established and up-and-coming comedians to share their stories and discuss their craft. The podcast’s popularity has contributed significantly to Maron’s earnings, with estimates suggesting it generates about through sponsorships and advertising.USD 1.00 million annually
TV and film projects
Maron’s success in podcasting has opened doors for him in television and film. He starred in the semi-autobiographical IFC show “Maron” from 2013 to 2016, which reflected his life as a comedian and podcast host. His role in Netflix’s “GLOW” earned him critical acclaim, further boosting his financial success. Maron has also ventured into major film projects, including a supporting role in “Joker” alongside Joaquin Phoenix.
The podcast’s influence extends beyond entertainment, as evidenced by Maron’s interview with high-profile figures like Barack Obama. This ability to attract diverse and influential guests has solidified “WTF with Marc Maron” as one of the leading podcasts globally. In a significant move for the show’s future, Maron recently struck a to host, monetize, and distribute the podcast, ensuring its continued success and accessibility across all major podcast platforms.three-year deal with Acast
Conclusion
The podcasting landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation, with top creators in the industry now commanding impressive earnings. From Joe Rogan’s groundbreaking Spotify deal to the success of true crime sensations like “My Favorite Murder,” these podcasters have demonstrated the immense potential for financial success in this medium. Their achievements highlight the power of engaging content, loyal fan bases, and strategic business moves to build thriving podcast empires.
As the podcasting industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to success. Whether through advertising revenue, subscription models, or diversifying into other media ventures, these top earners have found unique ways to monetize their content. Their stories serve as inspiration for aspiring podcasters and underscore the growing influence of the medium in shaping media consumption habits. As we look to the future, it’s exciting to think about the new voices and innovative formats that will emerge in this dynamic and ever-expanding field.
FAQs
Who is the highest earning male podcaster?
Joe Rogan, host of "The Joe Rogan Experience," is the highest paid male podcaster, earning USD 30 million. His podcast, which features a variety of guests including comedians, politicians, and MMA fighters, reaches around 190 million downloads each month. Despite its success, the podcast has faced its share of controversies.
Who is the highest earning female podcaster?
The highest paid female podcaster is Cooper, who earns an annual salary of USD 20 million from Spotify, making her the second highest earner following Joe Rogan, as reported by the Los Angeles Times in June 2022.
Who is considered the biggest podcast star?
The article does not specify who the biggest podcast star is, focusing instead on the top earners.