Joe Rogan, host of "The Joe Rogan Experience," has been named the highest-paid podcaster in America for 2026, with an estimated $82 million in earnings, according to a Forbes report. Rogan, a comedian, actor, and podcaster, has interviewed a wide range of prominent figures across various industries.
His podcast has generated controversy due to his discussions with right-wing personalities and proponents of pseudoscience, as well as his endorsement of Donald Trump in the lead-up to the 2024 US presidential election. These elements have made Rogan a focal point for criticism. Comedian Chelsea Handler reacted strongly to Rogan's earnings, questioning the high salary and suggesting funds could be better allocated to veterans or children.
Following Rogan on the list are John Coogan and Jordi Hays of the Technology Business Programming Network (TBPN), who reportedly earned $70 million collectively. TBPN experienced significant growth, attracting $5 million in advertising in its first year and $30 million the following year. OpenAI acquired the network for approximately $150 million in cash and stock options.
Steven Bartlett, host of "Diary Of A CEO," secured the third position with $45 million in earnings. The UK-based host's show reportedly achieved its highest revenue in the first quarter of 2026. Ashley Flowers, creator of the true-crime podcast "Crime Junkie," ranked fourth, earning an estimated $42 million in 2026. Flowers also founded the podcast network Audiochuck, which secured a $150 million distribution deal with Tubi and Red Seat Ventures.
The podcast "SmartLess," hosted by actors Will Arnett, Jason Bateman, and Sean Hayes, is sixth on the list, having earned $37 million. The trio have continued to balance their podcasting careers with their on-screen projects.
Self-help author Mel Robbins, host of "The Mel Robbins Podcast," is the sixth highest-paid podcaster, earning $35 million. Her earnings were supplemented by the success of her self-help book "The Let Them Theory," published in late 2024.
Brothers and NFL stars Travis and Jason Kelce, hosts of "New Heights," are seventh on the list with $35 million in earnings. Their podcast's popularity has surged, partly due to Travis Kelce's high-profile relationship with Taylor Swift. The brothers secured a $100 million deal with Amazon-owned Wondery in 2024.
Alex Cooper, host of "Call Her Daddy," is eighth with $31 million, stemming from a deal with SiriusXM valued at up to $125 million. Cooper was involved in a public dispute earlier this year when her podcast network dropped the show "Hot Mess."
The only purely political podcast in the top 10 is "Pod Save America," co-hosted by former Obama administration officials Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Dan Pfeiffer, and Tommy Vietor. The group reportedly earned $28 million this year. They founded Crooked Media in 2017, which focuses on left-leaning political commentary. The network recently moved its distribution to Audioboom and is expanding into television with MS NOW.
Rounding out the top 10 is Charlamagne tha God, co-host of "The Breakfast Club," who earned $27 million. His show has a significant contract with iHeart Media, potentially worth up to $200 million over five years.