In the first quarter of 2025, Spotify paid more than $100 million to podcast creators across the globe, demonstrating the platform’s significant investment in the podcasting space. This figure includes all creators on the platform, covering various agreements and formats, and includes major names like Joe Rogan, Alex Cooper, and Theo Von. Rogan, host of “The Joe Rogan Experience,” Cooper, known for “Call Her Daddy,” and Von of “This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von” were among the most popular podcasts globally in 2024.
Although the exclusive deals between Spotify and these top creators have ended, their shows continue to be available on the platform. Rogan signed a new deal with Spotify in 2024 worth up to $250 million, which includes revenue sharing and the option to post on YouTube. Cooper, on the other hand, struck a deal with SiriusXM in August. Despite these exclusive arrangements ending, shows from these creators still qualify for the Spotify Partner Program, which launched in January in select countries including the U.S., U.K., Canada, and Australia.
The Spotify Partner Program allows creators to earn revenue through ads that are monetized by Spotify, as well as through dynamic ads shown to Premium subscribers who watch videos. This program offers an additional stream of income for creators and highlights Spotify’s continued support for the podcasting ecosystem.
In comparison, Patreon reported paying out more than $472 million to podcasters in 2024, thanks to more than 6.7 million paid memberships. YouTube, which also compensates creators for content beyond podcasts, paid out a massive $70 billion to creators between 2021 and 2024, with payouts increasing annually.
Spotify’s hefty payout in Q1 2025 reflects its ongoing commitment to expanding its podcast offerings and compensating top-tier creators. As the company prepares to report its first-quarter earnings, it’s clear that podcasting remains a key focus, with Spotify continuing to compete with other platforms to attract and retain popular creators.
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