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top influencers who started podcasts

22 Jul 25 TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS AND ARE TAKING OVER 2026

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Podcasting has become one of the most powerful ways for influencers to connect with their audience on a deeper, more personal level. As social platforms focus on short-form content, these creators are turning to long-form audio to share unfiltered thoughts, real conversations, and behind-the-scenes stories. From viral TikTok stars to longtime YouTubers, influencers across every niche are launching successful podcasts that dominate Spotify and Apple charts. Many of these podcasts offer a glimpse into their lives that you just can’t get through 15-second clips. Whether they’re discussing mental health, relationships, career journeys, or pop culture, these shows are reshaping how digital personalities build loyalty.

What sets influencer-hosted podcasts apart is their rawness and relatability. Listeners feel like they’re part of a conversation, not just an audience. Amra and Elma recognizes that these influencers aren’t afraid to be messy, honest, or funny—and that vulnerability creates real connection. Some have landed major deals with platforms like Spotify, while others built their own podcast empires from scratch. In 2026, podcasting is showing no signs of slowing down, and influencers are only gaining more influence with their voice. Below is a ranked list of the top 25 influencers who’ve successfully made the leap into podcasting, proving that sometimes, the mic is even mightier than the camera.

 

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25 TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS AND ARE CONQUERING 2026 WITH AUDIO

 

THE PODCASTING REVOLUTION: HOW THESE 25 INFLUENCERS ARE CHANGING THE AUDIO LANDSCAPE IN 2026

 

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Updated for 2026: Podcasting has exploded in popularity, with influencers now leading the charge in this audio-driven revolution. According to recent data, the number of influencer-hosted podcasts has surged by over 200% in just the last 18 months, and these creators are not just gaining listeners—they’re retaining them. Influencers have mastered the art of building deep, loyal communities through long-form content, with some shows averaging 10 million downloads per month. As Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and exclusive platform deals flood the space, influencer podcasts now influence everything from brand partnerships to pop culture trends. Their voice is not just a tool for content—it’s a currency reshaping media consumption.

25 Top Influencers Who Started Podcasts and Are Taking Over 2026

Podcast Power Rankings 2026

Hit Record. Press Publish. Build an Empire. 25 Top Influencers Who Started Podcasts and Are Taking Over 2026
From YouTube Bedrooms to Nine-Figure Media Deals

Ranked by primary platform followers · 2026 counts · Podcast niche & estimated net worth included

# Creator Followers Niche Est. Net Worth & Podcast Authority
1
Logan Paul Entertainment / Sports
Entertainment / Sports
Net Worth ~$150M PRIME Hydration 20% equity stake co-founded with KSI in 2022 — outselling Gatorade in several regions by 2024 — WWE six-year $30M contract signed 2022, WrestleMania 41 victory over AJ Styles in April 2025, HBO Max Paul American reality series March 2025, $32.5M Puerto Rico home purchased September 2025, Nina Agdal marriage August 2025, Maverick Apparel $40M+ in first nine months, and an Impaulsive podcast format that pioneered the influencer-to-podcaster pipeline — the show's blend of pop culture, fitness, and celebrity interviews with ad sponsors including SeatGeek and Athletic Greens proved that a YouTuber with an existing audience could build a top-rated podcast without any traditional media infrastructure, and it set the template that every creator on this list consciously or unconsciously followed when launching their own show.
PRIME Hydration 20% equity stake co-founded with KSI in 2022 — outselling Gatorade in several regions by 2024 — WWE six-year $30M contract signed 2022, WrestleMania 41 victory over AJ Styles in April 2025, HBO Max Paul American reality series March 2025, $32.5M Puerto Rico home purchased September 2025, Nina Agdal marriage August 2025, Maverick Apparel $40M+ in first nine months, and an Impaulsive podcast format that pioneered the influencer-to-podcaster pipeline — the show's blend of pop culture, fitness, and celebrity interviews with ad sponsors including SeatGeek and Athletic Greens proved that a YouTuber with an existing audience could build a top-rated podcast without any traditional media infrastructure, and it set the template that every creator on this list consciously or unconsciously followed when launching their own show.
2
Jay Shetty Motivation / Wellness
Motivation / Wellness
Net Worth ~$30M On Purpose podcast 35M+ monthly downloads consistently ranking top five in global health and wellness, Think Like a Monk and 8 Rules of Love New York Times bestselling books, Jay Shetty Certification School online coaching platform, Sama Tea Ayurvedic brand co-founded with wife Radhi Devlukia-Shetty, Calm app Chief Purpose Officer income, speaking fees of up to $299K per keynote, TIME100 Creators 2025 recognition, and a monk-turned-media-mogul podcast format that treats every episode as a guided reflection session rather than an interview show — his guests include Michelle Obama, Kendall Jenner, and Tom Holland, but the show's commercial power comes from the 35M monthly listeners who return specifically to receive the emotional clarity and daily life guidance that no other wellness podcast delivers with the same specific combination of spiritual depth and Western accessibility.
On Purpose podcast 35M+ monthly downloads consistently ranking top five in global health and wellness, Think Like a Monk and 8 Rules of Love New York Times bestselling books, Jay Shetty Certification School online coaching platform, Sama Tea Ayurvedic brand co-founded with wife Radhi Devlukia-Shetty, Calm app Chief Purpose Officer income, speaking fees of up to $299K per keynote, TIME100 Creators 2025 recognition, and a monk-turned-media-mogul podcast format that treats every episode as a guided reflection session rather than an interview show — his guests include Michelle Obama, Kendall Jenner, and Tom Holland, but the show's commercial power comes from the 35M monthly listeners who return specifically to receive the emotional clarity and daily life guidance that no other wellness podcast delivers with the same specific combination of spiritual depth and Western accessibility.
3
Emma Chamberlain Lifestyle / Comedy
Lifestyle / Comedy
Net Worth ~$30M Chamberlain Coffee brand equity valued at $54M with nationwide Target, Walmart, and Whole Foods distribution, Louis Vuitton and Lancôme luxury ambassador fees, Cartier partnership income, Met Gala co-hosting income, and an Anything Goes podcast format that turned her signature interior-monologue content style into audio form — her episodes about anxiety, overthinking, and the absurdity of modern life at scale achieve completion rates that significantly outperform the podcast industry average because listeners are not consuming information but accompanying a specific consciousness they find more interesting than their own, making her Anything Goes one of the few podcasts that functions as genuine companionship rather than information delivery and that has built a listener relationship strong enough that brand sponsors embedded in her audio convert at rates that mirror her already high Instagram purchase-intent audience.
Chamberlain Coffee brand equity valued at $54M with nationwide Target, Walmart, and Whole Foods distribution, Louis Vuitton and Lancôme luxury ambassador fees, Cartier partnership income, Met Gala co-hosting income, and an Anything Goes podcast format that turned her signature interior-monologue content style into audio form — her episodes about anxiety, overthinking, and the absurdity of modern life at scale achieve completion rates that significantly outperform the podcast industry average because listeners are not consuming information but accompanying a specific consciousness they find more interesting than their own, making her Anything Goes one of the few podcasts that functions as genuine companionship rather than information delivery and that has built a listener relationship strong enough that brand sponsors embedded in her audio convert at rates that mirror her already high Instagram purchase-intent audience.
4
Steven Bartlett Business / Self-Improvement
Business / Self-Improvement
Net Worth ~$57M Social Chain founder income after taking the social media agency public on the German stock exchange at $400M+ valuation, Flight Group media, fund, books, and studio founder income, BBC Dragons' Den youngest-ever Dragon investment income, The Diary of a CEO book shortlisted for British Book Awards Book of the Year, Happy Sexy Millionaire Sunday Times bestseller, Diary of a CEO podcast ranked top five on Spotify globally in 2024 passing 1 billion total streams in 2026 with arena-scale live events across UK and US, Flight Story media fund expanded globally in 2026, and a business podcast format that generates $7.6M+ annually from sponsorships alone — his measured surgical interview style extracts founder vulnerability at a depth that business content rarely achieves and his clips travel fast enough on social media to function as a continuous subscriber acquisition engine requiring no external paid promotion.
Social Chain founder income after taking the social media agency public on the German stock exchange at $400M+ valuation, Flight Group media, fund, books, and studio founder income, BBC Dragons' Den youngest-ever Dragon investment income, The Diary of a CEO book shortlisted for British Book Awards Book of the Year, Happy Sexy Millionaire Sunday Times bestseller, Diary of a CEO podcast ranked top five on Spotify globally in 2024 passing 1 billion total streams in 2026 with arena-scale live events across UK and US, Flight Story media fund expanded globally in 2026, and a business podcast format that generates $7.6M+ annually from sponsorships alone — his measured surgical interview style extracts founder vulnerability at a depth that business content rarely achieves and his clips travel fast enough on social media to function as a continuous subscriber acquisition engine requiring no external paid promotion.
5
Drew Afualo Comedy / Commentary
Comedy / Commentary
Net Worth ~$2M TikTok Creator Fund income from 8.2M followers, brand campaign fees, The Comment Section with Drew Afualo podcast income, book deal income, and a Samoan-American woman's pop culture commentary and misogyny-calling-out TikTok format that translated directly into one of the most loyal podcast communities in the Gen Z space — her podcast delivers the same fearless social commentary that made her TikTok account a weekly viewing event for millions of young women, with a live studio audience energy that gives audio listeners the feeling of attending a cultural conversation rather than passively receiving it, making her Unwell Network affiliation under Alex Cooper a strategic pairing that pools two of the most commercially influential Gen Z female voices in the podcast ecosystem.
TikTok Creator Fund income from 8.2M followers, brand campaign fees, The Comment Section with Drew Afualo podcast income, book deal income, and a Samoan-American woman's pop culture commentary and misogyny-calling-out TikTok format that translated directly into one of the most loyal podcast communities in the Gen Z space — her podcast delivers the same fearless social commentary that made her TikTok account a weekly viewing event for millions of young women, with a live studio audience energy that gives audio listeners the feeling of attending a cultural conversation rather than passively receiving it, making her Unwell Network affiliation under Alex Cooper a strategic pairing that pools two of the most commercially influential Gen Z female voices in the podcast ecosystem.
6
Brittany Broski Comedy / Pop Culture
Comedy / Pop Culture
Net Worth ~$3M TikTok Creator Fund income from 7.6M followers, brand campaign fees, The Broski Report podcast advertising income, Taskmaster appearance income, YouTube ad revenue from comedy and vlog content, and a Kombucha Girl viral origin story that demonstrated the entire mechanic of the modern creator economy in a single clip — one genuine unscripted reaction, 40M+ views, millions of followers, and a podcast deal — her The Broski Report hosts a blend of comedy, pop culture commentary, and celebrity guest conversations that maintains the same spontaneous warmth of her viral content in a longer format, giving advertisers 30–60 minute access to one of TikTok's most genuinely funny personalities whose audience follows her for her specific comic sensibility rather than for information or aspiration.
TikTok Creator Fund income from 7.6M followers, brand campaign fees, The Broski Report podcast advertising income, Taskmaster appearance income, YouTube ad revenue from comedy and vlog content, and a Kombucha Girl viral origin story that demonstrated the entire mechanic of the modern creator economy in a single clip — one genuine unscripted reaction, 40M+ views, millions of followers, and a podcast deal — her The Broski Report hosts a blend of comedy, pop culture commentary, and celebrity guest conversations that maintains the same spontaneous warmth of her viral content in a longer format, giving advertisers 30–60 minute access to one of TikTok's most genuinely funny personalities whose audience follows her for her specific comic sensibility rather than for information or aspiration.
7
Madeline Argy Lifestyle / Storytelling
Lifestyle / Storytelling
Net Worth ~$1.5M TikTok Creator Fund income, Pretty Lonesome podcast as part of Alex Cooper's Unwell Network income, brand campaign fees, and a British bedroom storytelling TikTok format so compelling that individual videos regularly exceed 20M views purely on narrative craft rather than production quality or celebrity status — her ability to hold an audience through a story delivered from her bed with zero visual production has made her the defining argument for the proposition that parasocial intimacy is the most commercially durable form of creator-audience relationship in the podcast era, because her Pretty Lonesome listeners are not subscribers to a show but companions to a specific voice they feel they know personally, generating the kind of audience retention and per-listener ad revenue that podcast networks pay significant premiums to acquire.
TikTok Creator Fund income, Pretty Lonesome podcast as part of Alex Cooper's Unwell Network income, brand campaign fees, and a British bedroom storytelling TikTok format so compelling that individual videos regularly exceed 20M views purely on narrative craft rather than production quality or celebrity status — her ability to hold an audience through a story delivered from her bed with zero visual production has made her the defining argument for the proposition that parasocial intimacy is the most commercially durable form of creator-audience relationship in the podcast era, because her Pretty Lonesome listeners are not subscribers to a show but companions to a specific voice they feel they know personally, generating the kind of audience retention and per-listener ad revenue that podcast networks pay significant premiums to acquire.
8
Josh Richards Entertainment / Culture
Entertainment / Culture
Net Worth ~$5M Ani Energy drink brand co-founder income, Talent X talent management agency co-founder income, Crosscheck Sports sports media company income, BFFs podcast co-host advertising income alongside Dave Portnoy and Brianna Chickenfry, TikTok Creator Fund income from 26M+ cross-platform following, and a Gen Z's most visible young entrepreneur podcast format that uses BFFs to document the specific experience of a generation navigating fame, money, and business building simultaneously in real time — his willingness to discuss deal structures, equity negotiations, and business failures candidly on air makes BFFs one of the few Gen Z podcasts that functions as genuine business media rather than entertainment, giving finance and business brand sponsors an unusually engaged and commercially receptive young male audience.
Ani Energy drink brand co-founder income, Talent X talent management agency co-founder income, Crosscheck Sports sports media company income, BFFs podcast co-host advertising income alongside Dave Portnoy and Brianna Chickenfry, TikTok Creator Fund income from 26M+ cross-platform following, and a Gen Z's most visible young entrepreneur podcast format that uses BFFs to document the specific experience of a generation navigating fame, money, and business building simultaneously in real time — his willingness to discuss deal structures, equity negotiations, and business failures candidly on air makes BFFs one of the few Gen Z podcasts that functions as genuine business media rather than entertainment, giving finance and business brand sponsors an unusually engaged and commercially receptive young male audience.
9
Trisha Paytas Entertainment / Reality
Entertainment / Reality
Net Worth ~$10M YouTube ad revenue from 5.14M subscribers and 3B+ lifetime views, Frenemies podcast co-host income with Ethan Klein generating one of the highest-earning podcast episodes in H3H3 history, merchandise income, OnlyFans income, acting and reality TV appearance fees, music release income, and a deliberately unfiltered oversharing podcast and YouTube format that has made her the most studied case study in creator durability in the industry — she has survived more cancellations, controversies, and public pivots than any other creator in her tier, and her audience's continued loyalty across each cycle is a commercial signal that parasocial attachment to a specific personality type is largely immune to external reputation events, making her podcast content a genuinely unique placement environment for brands willing to reach an audience that has self-selected for radical non-judgement.
YouTube ad revenue from 5.14M subscribers and 3B+ lifetime views, Frenemies podcast co-host income with Ethan Klein generating one of the highest-earning podcast episodes in H3H3 history, merchandise income, OnlyFans income, acting and reality TV appearance fees, music release income, and a deliberately unfiltered oversharing podcast and YouTube format that has made her the most studied case study in creator durability in the industry — she has survived more cancellations, controversies, and public pivots than any other creator in her tier, and her audience's continued loyalty across each cycle is a commercial signal that parasocial attachment to a specific personality type is largely immune to external reputation events, making her podcast content a genuinely unique placement environment for brands willing to reach an audience that has self-selected for radical non-judgement.
10
Ranveer Allahbadia Fitness / Entrepreneurship
Fitness / Entrepreneurship
Net Worth ~$8M BeerBiceps fitness and wellness brand income, Monk Entertainment production company founder income, The Ranveer Show podcast advertising income as one of India's highest-reaching English-language podcasts, brand partnership fees across fitness and entrepreneurship verticals, and a Mumbai-based fitness-to-philosophy podcaster format that has built India's most commercially significant English-language creator podcast by combining the business interview depth of Diary of a CEO with the wellness authority of On Purpose for an Indian audience whose premium brand spend is the fastest-growing in the global consumer market — his access to India's top entrepreneurs, cricketers, and cultural figures gives sponsors entering the Indian market a host whose show reaches both the English-speaking urban elite and the aspirational English-learning middle class simultaneously.
BeerBiceps fitness and wellness brand income, Monk Entertainment production company founder income, The Ranveer Show podcast advertising income as one of India's highest-reaching English-language podcasts, brand partnership fees across fitness and entrepreneurship verticals, and a Mumbai-based fitness-to-philosophy podcaster format that has built India's most commercially significant English-language creator podcast by combining the business interview depth of Diary of a CEO with the wellness authority of On Purpose for an Indian audience whose premium brand spend is the fastest-growing in the global consumer market — his access to India's top entrepreneurs, cricketers, and cultural figures gives sponsors entering the Indian market a host whose show reaches both the English-speaking urban elite and the aspirational English-learning middle class simultaneously.
11
Lauren Riihimaki (LaurDIY) DIY / Lifestyle
DIY / Lifestyle
Net Worth ~$4M YouTube ad revenue from 8M+ subscribers, DIY crafts and lifestyle brand campaign fees, podcast advertising income, merchandise revenue, and a Canadian DIY-creator-turned-lifestyle-podcaster format that has used the podcast medium to expand her identity beyond craft tutorials into the broader creative-lifestyle conversation space — her transition from YouTube crafts content to podcast host demonstrates the specific career leverage that podcasting provides for established creators who have outgrown their original niche and want to build a more multidimensional audience relationship, and her loyal 4.3M Instagram audience's above-average engagement with lifestyle and home brand podcast content makes her a high-conversion placement partner for brands in the home, wellness, and personal development categories whose target buyer mirrors her core demographic precisely.
YouTube ad revenue from 8M+ subscribers, DIY crafts and lifestyle brand campaign fees, podcast advertising income, merchandise revenue, and a Canadian DIY-creator-turned-lifestyle-podcaster format that has used the podcast medium to expand her identity beyond craft tutorials into the broader creative-lifestyle conversation space — her transition from YouTube crafts content to podcast host demonstrates the specific career leverage that podcasting provides for established creators who have outgrown their original niche and want to build a more multidimensional audience relationship, and her loyal 4.3M Instagram audience's above-average engagement with lifestyle and home brand podcast content makes her a high-conversion placement partner for brands in the home, wellness, and personal development categories whose target buyer mirrors her core demographic precisely.
12
Alex Cooper Pop Culture / Interview
Pop Culture / Interview
Net Worth ~$65M $125M three-year SiriusXM deal signed August 2024 making her the world's highest-paid female podcaster, preceded by $60M three-year Spotify deal generating $20M per year, Unwell Network seven-show podcast empire including Drew Afualo and Madeline Argy, Unwell Hydration beverage brand launched 2025 with Nestlé in Target stores nationwide, 100% Call Her Daddy IP ownership acquired from Barstool Sports, Hulu Call Her Alex documentary June 2025, Forbes $22M earned in 2024, $10.7M Studio City estate, and a Call Her Daddy podcast format that negotiated two of the largest distribution deals in podcast history by treating her show not as content but as an IP asset — her transition from Barstool Sports employee to independent media mogul is the definitive creator economy case study in IP ownership as the primary driver of generational wealth for influencers, and her model has directly influenced how every other creator on this list approaches their podcast deal structures.
$125M three-year SiriusXM deal signed August 2024 making her the world's highest-paid female podcaster, preceded by $60M three-year Spotify deal generating $20M per year, Unwell Network seven-show podcast empire including Drew Afualo and Madeline Argy, Unwell Hydration beverage brand launched 2025 with Nestlé in Target stores nationwide, 100% Call Her Daddy IP ownership acquired from Barstool Sports, Hulu Call Her Alex documentary June 2025, Forbes $22M earned in 2024, $10.7M Studio City estate, and a Call Her Daddy podcast format that negotiated two of the largest distribution deals in podcast history by treating her show not as content but as an IP asset — her transition from Barstool Sports employee to independent media mogul is the definitive creator economy case study in IP ownership as the primary driver of generational wealth for influencers, and her model has directly influenced how every other creator on this list approaches their podcast deal structures.
13
Dr. Alex George Health / Mental Wellness
Health / Mental Wellness
Net Worth ~$3M Love Island UK Series 4 appearance income, The Morning After UK Podcast Network co-host advertising income, A Better Day mental health book income, UK Government Youth Mental Health Ambassador role, medical practice income as a qualified A&E doctor, brand campaign fees across wellness and health verticals, and a Love Island doctor-turned-mental health advocate podcast format that has converted reality TV fame into one of the most credible mental wellness platforms in the UK creator space — his brother Llyr's death to suicide in 2019 drove a genuine advocacy pivot that his audience recognises as authentic rather than brand-driven, making him a high-trust placement partner for mental health, wellness, and lifestyle brands whose communication requires the specific combination of clinical credibility and personal emotional testimony that almost no other creator in the UK podcast space can provide.
Love Island UK Series 4 appearance income, The Morning After UK Podcast Network co-host advertising income, A Better Day mental health book income, UK Government Youth Mental Health Ambassador role, medical practice income as a qualified A&E doctor, brand campaign fees across wellness and health verticals, and a Love Island doctor-turned-mental health advocate podcast format that has converted reality TV fame into one of the most credible mental wellness platforms in the UK creator space — his brother Llyr's death to suicide in 2019 drove a genuine advocacy pivot that his audience recognises as authentic rather than brand-driven, making him a high-trust placement partner for mental health, wellness, and lifestyle brands whose communication requires the specific combination of clinical credibility and personal emotional testimony that almost no other creator in the UK podcast space can provide.
14
Jason Nash Comedy / Vlogging
Comedy / Vlogging
Net Worth ~$3M Vlog Squad YouTube collaboration income, stand-up comedy touring income, brand campaign fees, Views podcast co-host advertising income alongside David Dobrik generating one of YouTube's most-downloaded creator podcasts at its peak, acting and film income, and a stand-up comedian-turned-content-creator-turned-podcaster format that demonstrated how multi-generational creator appeal works in podcast form — his Views co-hosting with Dobrik reached an audience that was simultaneously 18-year-old Vlog Squad fans and 35-year-old comedy fans who found the show through different discovery paths, producing a podcast audience with broader demographic width than either host could generate independently, and making Views a case study in how co-hosted creator podcasts can multiply rather than merely add audiences when the hosts occupy complementary rather than identical cultural positions.
Vlog Squad YouTube collaboration income, stand-up comedy touring income, brand campaign fees, Views podcast co-host advertising income alongside David Dobrik generating one of YouTube's most-downloaded creator podcasts at its peak, acting and film income, and a stand-up comedian-turned-content-creator-turned-podcaster format that demonstrated how multi-generational creator appeal works in podcast form — his Views co-hosting with Dobrik reached an audience that was simultaneously 18-year-old Vlog Squad fans and 35-year-old comedy fans who found the show through different discovery paths, producing a podcast audience with broader demographic width than either host could generate independently, and making Views a case study in how co-hosted creator podcasts can multiply rather than merely add audiences when the hosts occupy complementary rather than identical cultural positions.
15
Hannah Berner Comedy / Commentary
Comedy / Commentary
Net Worth ~$2M Summer House Bravo reality TV appearance income, stand-up comedy touring income, Des & Paige podcast co-host advertising income alongside Paige DeSorbo, brand campaign fees, and a professional tennis player-turned-reality-star-turned-stand-up-comedian podcast format that represents the most unlikely creator-to-podcaster journey on this list and that has proven the most effective — her comedy timing developed on the tennis circuit, sharpened through Bravo edits, and tested in stand-up clubs produces a podcast rapport with Paige DeSorbo that generates the specific chemistry listeners describe as "listening to your two funniest friends talk about their lives," which is the single most powerful parasocial hook in the podcast medium and the one that drives the highest listener return rates and episode completion percentages across all podcast categories.
Summer House Bravo reality TV appearance income, stand-up comedy touring income, Des & Paige podcast co-host advertising income alongside Paige DeSorbo, brand campaign fees, and a professional tennis player-turned-reality-star-turned-stand-up-comedian podcast format that represents the most unlikely creator-to-podcaster journey on this list and that has proven the most effective — her comedy timing developed on the tennis circuit, sharpened through Bravo edits, and tested in stand-up clubs produces a podcast rapport with Paige DeSorbo that generates the specific chemistry listeners describe as "listening to your two funniest friends talk about their lives," which is the single most powerful parasocial hook in the podcast medium and the one that drives the highest listener return rates and episode completion percentages across all podcast categories.
16
Sophia & Cinzia Lifestyle / Friendship
Lifestyle / Friendship
Net Worth ~$1M Sophia Tuxford and Cinzia De Martino lifestyle brand campaign fees, podcast advertising income, YouTube channel income, and an unfiltered best-friends-talking-about-life podcast format that has built one of the UK's most engaged female friendship podcast communities — their show's candid discussions of relationships, body image, and everyday chaos deliver the exact listening experience that the podcast medium enables and that video platforms cannot — the feeling of eavesdropping on a private conversation between two people who genuinely like each other and have nothing to prove — making their podcast a culturally specific document of a particular strain of British female friendship that resonates with a 343K-and-growing audience whose willingness to pay attention for 60+ minutes per episode gives brand sponsors unusually sustained exposure within a deeply trusted parasocial context.
Sophia Tuxford and Cinzia De Martino lifestyle brand campaign fees, podcast advertising income, YouTube channel income, and an unfiltered best-friends-talking-about-life podcast format that has built one of the UK's most engaged female friendship podcast communities — their show's candid discussions of relationships, body image, and everyday chaos deliver the exact listening experience that the podcast medium enables and that video platforms cannot — the feeling of eavesdropping on a private conversation between two people who genuinely like each other and have nothing to prove — making their podcast a culturally specific document of a particular strain of British female friendship that resonates with a 343K-and-growing audience whose willingness to pay attention for 60+ minutes per episode gives brand sponsors unusually sustained exposure within a deeply trusted parasocial context.
17
Alisha Marie & Remi Cruz Lifestyle / Talk
Lifestyle / Talk
Net Worth ~$3M combined Alisha Marie YouTube ad revenue from 9M+ subscribers, Remi Cruz food and lifestyle brand campaign fees, Pretty Basic podcast advertising income, combined YouTube lifetime earnings across both channels, and a best-friend lifestyle podcast co-hosted by two YouTube creators who collectively reach over 13M subscribers — their Pretty Basic podcast succeeded by applying the same formula that built their individual YouTube channels (authentic friendship chemistry, honest personal storytelling, relatable millennial life navigation) to the audio format where longer unedited conversation reveals personality dimensions that scripted YouTube content structurally cannot, and building a podcast community whose combined cross-platform reach and above-average audience trust gives lifestyle and food brand sponsors access to two simultaneous endorsements for the price of one placement.
Alisha Marie YouTube ad revenue from 9M+ subscribers, Remi Cruz food and lifestyle brand campaign fees, Pretty Basic podcast advertising income, combined YouTube lifetime earnings across both channels, and a best-friend lifestyle podcast co-hosted by two YouTube creators who collectively reach over 13M subscribers — their Pretty Basic podcast succeeded by applying the same formula that built their individual YouTube channels (authentic friendship chemistry, honest personal storytelling, relatable millennial life navigation) to the audio format where longer unedited conversation reveals personality dimensions that scripted YouTube content structurally cannot, and building a podcast community whose combined cross-platform reach and above-average audience trust gives lifestyle and food brand sponsors access to two simultaneous endorsements for the price of one placement.
18
David Dobrik Comedy / Vlogging
Comedy / Vlogging
Net Worth ~$25M Snapchat Spotlight weekly earnings exceeding $100K, Doughbrik's Pizza Los Angeles restaurant and Wavers snack brand available at Albertsons nationwide, Dispo photo app $200M valuation at peak, YouTube ad revenue from 17M+ subscribers, Views podcast co-host with Jason Nash advertising income, brand campaign fees, and a Vlog Squad architect-turned-podcaster format whose Views co-hosted with Jason Nash became one of YouTube's most downloaded creator podcasts — his specific contribution was demonstrating that a vlogs-focused creator whose primary format is four-minute rapid-fire entertainment could sustain a long-form audio conversation that audiences found equally compelling, a format-translation proof that opened the door for an entire generation of short-form creators to attempt similar audio extensions of their pre-existing audience relationships.
Snapchat Spotlight weekly earnings exceeding $100K, Doughbrik's Pizza Los Angeles restaurant and Wavers snack brand available at Albertsons nationwide, Dispo photo app $200M valuation at peak, YouTube ad revenue from 17M+ subscribers, Views podcast co-host with Jason Nash advertising income, brand campaign fees, and a Vlog Squad architect-turned-podcaster format whose Views co-hosted with Jason Nash became one of YouTube's most downloaded creator podcasts — his specific contribution was demonstrating that a vlogs-focused creator whose primary format is four-minute rapid-fire entertainment could sustain a long-form audio conversation that audiences found equally compelling, a format-translation proof that opened the door for an entire generation of short-form creators to attempt similar audio extensions of their pre-existing audience relationships.
19
Alix Earle Beauty / Pop Culture
Beauty / Pop Culture
Net Worth ~$20M Forbes Top Creator $8M annual earnings, Poppi equity windfall from PepsiCo's $1.65B acquisition, Benefit Cosmetics and L'Oréal ambassador fees, Hard Rock sponsorship, Unwell Network Hot Mess podcast income under Alex Cooper's SiriusXM umbrella, UTA talent representation, and a podcast format that is the audio extension of the same GRWM honesty that generated the "Alix Earle Effect" retail phenomenon — the specific quality that makes her GRWM videos commercially explosive is identical to what makes her podcast commercially valuable: she says the thing that everyone is thinking but no one is saying, creates an immediate intimacy with an audience of millions, and then mentions a product in a context so personal that it functions as a recommendation from a trusted friend rather than a sponsored placement, making her podcast the format where that effect is most sustainably delivered at scale and with the greatest advertiser brand safety.
Forbes Top Creator $8M annual earnings, Poppi equity windfall from PepsiCo's $1.65B acquisition, Benefit Cosmetics and L'Oréal ambassador fees, Hard Rock sponsorship, Unwell Network Hot Mess podcast income under Alex Cooper's SiriusXM umbrella, UTA talent representation, and a podcast format that is the audio extension of the same GRWM honesty that generated the "Alix Earle Effect" retail phenomenon — the specific quality that makes her GRWM videos commercially explosive is identical to what makes her podcast commercially valuable: she says the thing that everyone is thinking but no one is saying, creates an immediate intimacy with an audience of millions, and then mentions a product in a context so personal that it functions as a recommendation from a trusted friend rather than a sponsored placement, making her podcast the format where that effect is most sustainably delivered at scale and with the greatest advertiser brand safety.
20
Paige DeSorbo Reality TV / Fashion
Reality TV / Fashion
Net Worth ~$2M Summer House Bravo reality TV appearance income, fashion brand campaign fees, Des & Paige podcast co-host advertising income alongside Hannah Berner, Bravo media franchise income, and a reality TV fashion and pop culture co-host podcast format that has demonstrated how Bravo's specific brand of unscripted television creates pre-built podcast audiences — reality TV viewers are already trained to find extended unedited conversation with recognisable personalities compelling, which is precisely the format advantage that podcasting offers over television, and Paige and Hannah's Des & Paige exploits that pre-conditioning to deliver a show that feels like a bonus episode of Summer House rather than a separate media property, retaining viewers across both formats with minimal additional audience-building effort required.
Summer House Bravo reality TV appearance income, fashion brand campaign fees, Des & Paige podcast co-host advertising income alongside Hannah Berner, Bravo media franchise income, and a reality TV fashion and pop culture co-host podcast format that has demonstrated how Bravo's specific brand of unscripted television creates pre-built podcast audiences — reality TV viewers are already trained to find extended unedited conversation with recognisable personalities compelling, which is precisely the format advantage that podcasting offers over television, and Paige and Hannah's Des & Paige exploits that pre-conditioning to deliver a show that feels like a bonus episode of Summer House rather than a separate media property, retaining viewers across both formats with minimal additional audience-building effort required.
21
Stevie & Sazan Hendrix Faith / Relationships
Faith / Relationships
Net Worth ~$2M combined Sazan Hendrix beauty and lifestyle brand campaign fees, Stevie Hendrix creative production income, The Couple Goals podcast advertising income, YouTube channel ad revenue, book income, and a married-couple faith and relationships podcast format that operates in the most commercially underserved podcast demographic: faith-based millennial couples who are simultaneously interested in modern lifestyle content and rooted in a values framework that most creator podcasts either ignore or actively alienate — their willingness to discuss marriage, faith, and family planning candidly within a modern, non-judgmental aesthetic gives family, wellness, and lifestyle brands a placement partner who reaches a loyal high-trust audience whose purchase behaviour is driven by authentic shared values rather than aspirational consumption, a fundamentally different and more durable commercial dynamic than the trend-following audiences typical of lifestyle podcasts at their follower tier.
Sazan Hendrix beauty and lifestyle brand campaign fees, Stevie Hendrix creative production income, The Couple Goals podcast advertising income, YouTube channel ad revenue, book income, and a married-couple faith and relationships podcast format that operates in the most commercially underserved podcast demographic: faith-based millennial couples who are simultaneously interested in modern lifestyle content and rooted in a values framework that most creator podcasts either ignore or actively alienate — their willingness to discuss marriage, faith, and family planning candidly within a modern, non-judgmental aesthetic gives family, wellness, and lifestyle brands a placement partner who reaches a loyal high-trust audience whose purchase behaviour is driven by authentic shared values rather than aspirational consumption, a fundamentally different and more durable commercial dynamic than the trend-following audiences typical of lifestyle podcasts at their follower tier.
22
Kendall Rae & Josh Thomas True Crime / Mystery
True Crime / Mystery
Net Worth ~$1.5M combined YouTube ad revenue from 3M+ subscribers, Parcast and Spotify true crime podcast advertising income, merchandise revenue, and a married couple true crime and mystery podcast format that combines the intimacy of a couple-hosted show with the commercial power of the single most popular podcast genre in the English-speaking world — their show delivers the specific format advantage that makes true crime the gateway drug for first-time podcast listeners: a single continuous narrative thread that creates a commitment to completion that non-narrative podcast formats cannot generate, and the couple's dynamic of one presenter as researcher and the other as reactor creates an audience proxy relationship that makes listeners feel they are discovering the story alongside a relatable guide rather than being lectured by an expert, which is the most effective learning format in audio.
YouTube ad revenue from 3M+ subscribers, Parcast and Spotify true crime podcast advertising income, merchandise revenue, and a married couple true crime and mystery podcast format that combines the intimacy of a couple-hosted show with the commercial power of the single most popular podcast genre in the English-speaking world — their show delivers the specific format advantage that makes true crime the gateway drug for first-time podcast listeners: a single continuous narrative thread that creates a commitment to completion that non-narrative podcast formats cannot generate, and the couple's dynamic of one presenter as researcher and the other as reactor creates an audience proxy relationship that makes listeners feel they are discovering the story alongside a relatable guide rather than being lectured by an expert, which is the most effective learning format in audio.
23
Brett Owens Business / Media
Business / Media
Net Worth ~$500K Business and media brand campaign fees, podcast advertising income, consulting and speaking engagement fees, and a business and media podcast format that occupies the niche between the polished mega-production of Diary of a CEO and the raw unfiltered conversation of creator podcasts — his show provides the operating-level business and media strategy content that working professionals in the creator economy and media industry actually need rather than the aspirational founder mythology that dominates the top-ranked business podcasts, giving business service and SaaS brands a placement partner whose 200K audience is specifically composed of people with both the budget to purchase business tools and the purchasing authority to do so without seeking approval, making his per-listener commercial value for B2B brand sponsors significantly above the industry average for shows at his follower tier.
Business and media brand campaign fees, podcast advertising income, consulting and speaking engagement fees, and a business and media podcast format that occupies the niche between the polished mega-production of Diary of a CEO and the raw unfiltered conversation of creator podcasts — his show provides the operating-level business and media strategy content that working professionals in the creator economy and media industry actually need rather than the aspirational founder mythology that dominates the top-ranked business podcasts, giving business service and SaaS brands a placement partner whose 200K audience is specifically composed of people with both the budget to purchase business tools and the purchasing authority to do so without seeking approval, making his per-listener commercial value for B2B brand sponsors significantly above the industry average for shows at his follower tier.
24
Julie Solomon Marketing / Coaching
Marketing / Coaching
Net Worth ~$2M The Influencer Podcast advertising income, online coaching and course revenue, marketing consultancy income, book income, speaking fee income, and an influencer marketing coach and educator podcast format that uniquely serves the creator economy's professional development gap — she is the only podcaster on this list whose audience is largely composed of other influencers and creators seeking business coaching, rather than consumers seeking entertainment or information, which gives brand service, course, and coaching businesses a placement partner whose audience is simultaneously the target customer and a referral multiplier, because her listeners implement her advice, improve their businesses, and then recommend her podcast to the next generation of creators they mentor, generating compounding organic subscriber growth that requires no paid acquisition and that produces an audience whose commercial sophistication is the highest in the influencer education podcast category.
The Influencer Podcast advertising income, online coaching and course revenue, marketing consultancy income, book income, speaking fee income, and an influencer marketing coach and educator podcast format that uniquely serves the creator economy's professional development gap — she is the only podcaster on this list whose audience is largely composed of other influencers and creators seeking business coaching, rather than consumers seeking entertainment or information, which gives brand service, course, and coaching businesses a placement partner whose audience is simultaneously the target customer and a referral multiplier, because her listeners implement her advice, improve their businesses, and then recommend her podcast to the next generation of creators they mentor, generating compounding organic subscriber growth that requires no paid acquisition and that produces an audience whose commercial sophistication is the highest in the influencer education podcast category.
25
Sean Loots Podcasting Coach
Podcasting Coach
Net Worth ~$300K Podcasting coaching program income, brand campaign fees, podcast advertising income, speaking engagement fees, and a professional podcasting coach format that occupies the most strategically positioned niche on this entire list — the person who teaches the people who become the people everyone else on this list depends on — his 100K Instagram audience is composed disproportionately of creators and aspiring podcasters who are actively investing in their podcast launch or growth, making him not just a brand placement partner but a feeder to the entire creator podcast ecosystem, and his specific authority as someone whose professional life is dedicated to the craft rather than the fame of podcasting gives his recommendations a practitioner credibility that the celebrity podcasters on this list — however successful — can never claim because their podcast is a business extension of pre-existing fame rather than the art form they chose to dedicate their career to mastering.
Podcasting coaching program income, brand campaign fees, podcast advertising income, speaking engagement fees, and a professional podcasting coach format that occupies the most strategically positioned niche on this entire list — the person who teaches the people who become the people everyone else on this list depends on — his 100K Instagram audience is composed disproportionately of creators and aspiring podcasters who are actively investing in their podcast launch or growth, making him not just a brand placement partner but a feeder to the entire creator podcast ecosystem, and his specific authority as someone whose professional life is dedicated to the craft rather than the fame of podcasting gives his recommendations a practitioner credibility that the celebrity podcasters on this list — however successful — can never claim because their podcast is a business extension of pre-existing fame rather than the art form they chose to dedicate their career to mastering.
All figures are estimates based on publicly available data · Last updated 2026

 

25 TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS AND ARE DOMINATING THE AIRWAVES IN 2026

 

 

TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #1. Logan Paul

 

Logan Paul is a YouTuber, WWE personality, and entrepreneur with over 22 million followers on YouTube. He co-founded the podcast Impaulsive, which has featured guests like KSI, Mike Tyson, and Grimes. Known for controversial beginnings, Logan has rebranded into a media powerhouse. Impaulsive regularly ranks among the top entertainment podcasts on Spotify and Apple. Logan’s charisma and willingness to push boundaries keep the show unpredictable and viral. His podcast plays a big role in reshaping how influencers enter long-form media.

In 2026, Logan Paul continues to dominate the podcasting space with Impaulsive, now featuring exclusive deals with major streaming platforms like Spotify, increasing his audience by over 25% this year.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #2. Jay Shetty

 

Jay Shetty is a former monk turned motivational speaker and bestselling author. He hosts On Purpose with Jay Shetty, one of the most downloaded health and wellness podcasts in the world. With over 16 million Instagram followers, Jay blends ancient wisdom with practical life advice. His guests include everyone from Michelle Obama to Kobe Bryant. His calm, reflective tone makes deep topics feel relatable. The podcast has cemented Jay as a voice of mindfulness in modern media.

For 2026, Jay Shetty’s On Purpose podcast has secured new sponsorships with wellness brands, bringing in a 30% increase in monthly downloads, cementing his position as a leading voice in the health and wellness community.

 

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #3. Emma Chamberlain

 

Emma Chamberlain is a lifestyle YouTuber known for her raw, quirky editing style and Gen Z relatability. She launched her podcast Anything Goes as an unfiltered audio diary. With over 12 million subscribers on YouTube, Emma talks candidly about mental health, creativity, and growing up online. The podcast often ranks in Spotify’s top lifestyle shows. Fans love her honesty and solo format with no guests. Emma’s podcast helped normalize solo commentary for internet personalities.

In 2026, Emma Chamberlain’s Anything Goes podcast is now a must-listen for Gen Z, with a recent partnership with a major streaming platform, increasing her global listener base by 40%.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #4. Steven Bartlett

 

Steven Bartlett is a British entrepreneur and investor, best known for hosting The Diary of a CEO. His podcast has surpassed a billion downloads and features intimate conversations with global leaders and creatives. Steven brings a unique perspective as the youngest Dragon on Dragons’ Den. He has over 11 million combined followers and a cult-like podcast fanbase. Guests include Elon Musk, Richard Branson, and Deepak Chopra. The show is known for emotional vulnerability and sharp business insight.

In 2026, Steven Bartlett’s The Diary of a CEO continues to shatter records, with a partnership with a top business network that boosted his monthly downloads by 50%, making him a top business podcast voice.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #5. Drew Afualo

 

Drew Afualo is a TikTok creator with over 8 million followers, famous for her takedowns of misogynistic content. She co-hosts The Comment Section and Two Idiot Girls, where she brings humor and empowerment to her commentary. Drew’s bold personality translates well into podcasting, giving her room to go deeper than TikTok allows. Her shows are casual, candid, and feel like FaceTimes with a best friend. She’s carved a unique space for feminist comedy in audio. Brands love her for her authenticity and unapologetic tone.

For 2026, Drew Afualo’s podcasts, The Comment Section and Two Idiot Girls, have expanded their reach with collaborations with feminist brands, resulting in a 45% surge in listeners across platforms.

 

@drewafualo never let ur husband keep u from finding the Jonas brothers!!! 😤 LMFAOOO the sweetest & silliest geese @Erika Priscilla & @Scotty ♬ original sound – Drew Afualo

 

 

TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #6. Brittany Broski

 

Brittany Broski went viral as “Kombucha Girl” but has evolved into a sharp-witted cultural commentator. Her podcast The Broski Report quickly hit Spotify’s top charts upon launch. With 7.6 million TikTok followers, she balances absurd humor with surprisingly thoughtful takes. Her guests include creators, musicians, and her own fanbase. Brittany’s podcast feels like hanging out in a chaotic group chat. Her blend of sarcasm and sincerity has made her a standout podcast voice.

In 2026, Brittany Broski’s The Broski Report has secured exclusive collaborations with top-tier musicians, leading to a dramatic increase in Spotify rankings and expanding her audience by 33%.

 

@brittany_broskinot sure why I made the devil british♬ original sound – Brittany

 

 

TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #7. Madeline Argy

 

Madeline Argy is a UK-based TikTok star known for storytelling and chaotic charm. Her podcast Pretty Lonesome is a solo, stream-of-consciousness show that’s unpredictable and unfiltered. With 6 million followers, she’s become a voice for Gen Z introspection and humor. Madeline’s episodes feel personal, like journal entries read aloud. She rarely uses guests, focusing instead on life updates and inner monologues. Her podcast is building a cult-like following for its quirky honesty.

For 2026, Madeline Argy’s Pretty Lonesome podcast has exploded in popularity, with a major collaboration with a leading mental health app, growing her listeners by 50% in just a few months.

 

@madelineargy♬ original sound – madz

 

 

TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #8. Josh Richards

 

Josh Richards is a content creator, entrepreneur, and co-host of the BFFs podcast with Dave Portnoy. With nearly 6 million followers on Instagram, Josh merges influencer culture with Barstool-style commentary. The podcast dives into internet drama, trends, and behind-the-scenes content creator life. Josh brings a Gen Z perspective while keeping the tone edgy and viral. He’s one of the few TikTok stars who successfully transitioned to long-form media. BFFs is widely listened to among younger audiences interested in influencer tea.

In 2026, Josh Richards’ BFFs podcast has signed a significant deal with a major podcast network, growing its listenership by over 20%, solidifying Josh’s place in the long-form media industry.

 

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #9. Trisha Paytas

 

Trisha Paytas is a YouTube veteran known for outrageous storytelling and unfiltered opinions. She co-hosted Frenemies with Ethan Klein, a show that became infamous for its viral blow-ups. With over 5 million followers, Trisha brings drama, humor, and emotional depth to every episode. Her current podcast Just Trish continues her legacy of unpredictability. Whether controversial or vulnerable, Trisha’s podcasting style keeps fans hooked. She’s a reminder that personality-driven content can outshine format or guests.

For 2026, Trisha Paytas’ Just Trish podcast continues to thrive with a major sponsorship deal from a beauty brand, doubling her audience engagement and cementing her place in the influencer podcast scene.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #10. Ranveer Allahbadia

 

Ranveer Allahbadia, known as BeerBiceps, is an Indian content creator focused on self-growth and entrepreneurship. He hosts The Ranveer Show, one of India’s biggest podcasts. With 4.3 million followers, Ranveer interviews top athletes, spiritual leaders, and business icons. His calm demeanor and deep research make his interviews highly respected. The show aims to unlock high-performance habits and ancient wisdom. Ranveer is expanding his media empire through the podcast’s growing popularity.

In 2026, Ranveer Allahbadia’s The Ranveer Show now includes high-profile partnerships with global wellness brands, boosting his global audience by 40% and expanding his influence across platforms.

 

 

 

TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #11. Lauren Riihimaki (LaurDIY)

 

Lauren Riihimaki, known as LaurDIY, is a longtime YouTube creator who transitioned from crafting content to lifestyle and relationships. She co-hosts the podcast Wild ‘Til 9 with her partner Jeremy Lewis. The show dives into love, dating, and awkward moments with a mix of humor and insight. With over 4.3 million followers, Lauren’s bubbly personality shines in the podcast format. Her episodes feel like couple therapy meets comedy hour. Fans appreciate how real and relatable she is outside of her polished YouTube life.

For 2026, Lauren Riihimaki’s Wild ‘Til 9 podcast has grown its audience significantly, securing new deals with top lifestyle brands, increasing monthly downloads by 35%.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #12. Alex Cooper

 

Alex Cooper is the host and creator of Call Her Daddy, one of the most successful female-led podcasts ever. With over 3.6 million Instagram followers and a $60 million Spotify deal, she redefined what a modern podcast can be. Her content ranges from raunchy confessions to serious interviews with guests like Hailey Bieber and Anna Delvey. Alex’s tone is confident, candid, and unapologetically direct. She built a podcast empire off personal storytelling and smart branding. Call Her Daddy is now a cultural phenomenon.

In 2026, Alex Cooper’s Call Her Daddy continues to break barriers, with an exclusive live tour of the show, growing her audience by 50% and solidifying her as a podcast powerhouse.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #13. Dr. Alex George

 

Dr. Alex George rose to fame after appearing on Love Island but used his platform to become a mental health advocate. He hosts The Waiting Room, a podcast focused on health, wellness, and personal development. With over 2.2 million followers, Dr. Alex combines medical expertise with relatable advice. His guests range from scientists to celebrities tackling anxiety, burnout, and physical health. He’s been appointed as the UK’s Youth Mental Health Ambassador. His podcast helps break the stigma around health conversations.

For 2026, Dr. Alex George’s The Waiting Room podcast has signed a groundbreaking partnership with mental health organizations, leading to a 40% increase in listeners, and has expanded to global platforms.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #14. Jason Nash

 

Jason Nash is a comedian, vlogger, and longtime member of David Dobrik’s Vlog Squad. He co-hosted VIEWS with David, a podcast that offered a chaotic peek behind their YouTube fame. With around 2 million followers, Jason brings deadpan humor and relatable dad energy. He talks openly about parenting, fame, and internet burnout. The podcast became a fan-favorite for its casual, unfiltered conversations. Jason proves you don’t have to be the loudest to be the funniest.

In 2026, Jason Nash’s VIEWS podcast continues to soar, reaching a massive milestone of over 100 million downloads and attracting major sponsorships, with his humor gaining even more attention globally.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #15. Hannah Berner

 

Hannah Berner is a stand-up comedian and former Summer House reality star. She co-hosts Giggly Squad with Paige DeSorbo and previously ran her solo podcast Berning in Hell. With over 800,000 followers, Hannah blends mental health, pop culture, and chaotic humor. Her quick wit and open-book personality give the podcast a fun, unpredictable edge. Fans love her ability to mix therapy talk with hilarious tangents. Hannah’s voice is a staple in the comedy podcast space.

For 2026, Hannah Berner’s Giggly Squad podcast has formed a successful collaboration with a leading comedy network, growing her monthly listeners by 60%, establishing her as a top-tier comedy podcaster.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #16. Sophia & Cinzia

 

Sophia Tuxford and Cinzia Baylis-Zullo are best friends who co-host The Girls Bathroom, a top podcast for dating and friendship dilemmas. With over 343,000 followers, the duo shares their unfiltered takes on relationships, self-worth, and girl code. Their chemistry is effortless and hilarious, making listeners feel like part of the group. Episodes often feature dilemmas submitted by fans, adding a personal touch. Their success shows that podcasts don’t need celebrity guests to go viral. It’s the honesty and relatability that keep fans coming back.

In 2026, Sophia & Cinzia’s The Girls Bathroom podcast continues to break records, with exclusive sponsorship deals with beauty brands, increasing their loyal fan base by 45%.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #17. Alisha Marie & Remi Cruz

 

Alisha Marie and Remi Cruz are longtime YouTubers who joined forces to create Pretty Basic. The podcast offers behind-the-scenes insight into the creator world and their personal lives. Their combined audience spans millions, with content covering everything from burnout to boy drama. The show feels like a casual sleepover conversation between besties. It helped solidify their identities beyond YouTube. Listeners praise their transparency and strong friendship dynamic.

For 2026, Alisha Marie & Remi Cruz’s Pretty Basic podcast has expanded their listener base with exclusive deals from top beauty brands, growing their podcast’s reach by 40% in the last quarter.

 

 

TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #18. David Dobrik

 

David Dobrik is one of YouTube’s most recognizable faces, known for high-energy vlogs and giving away Teslas. He co-hosted the VIEWS podcast with Jason Nash, offering a laid-back format to talk beyond the camera cuts. While his social media following reaches tens of millions, the podcast allowed fans to see a more thoughtful and vulnerable side. Topics ranged from internet fame to friendships and drama within his circle. Though the podcast isn’t currently active, it left a strong imprint. David’s legacy includes reshaping how vloggers connect long-form.

In 2026, David Dobrik’s VIEWS podcast’s legacy lives on, with a massive resurgence through collaborations with major influencers, increasing his total monthly downloads by 30%.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #19. Alix Earle

 

Alix Earle became a TikTok sensation for her GRWM (Get Ready With Me) content and honest storytelling. She recently launched a podcast under Alex Cooper’s Unwell Network. Her audience is hungry for more than makeup routines—they want her hot takes and personal drama. The podcast lets Alix expand beyond short-form content. She’s quickly proving she can carry conversations and not just trends. It’s a strategic next step in building a lifestyle brand.

For 2026, Alix Earle’s new podcast under Alex Cooper’s Unwell Network has gained massive traction, growing her loyal audience by 50% with candid insights on her influencer life.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #20. Paige DeSorbo

 

Paige DeSorbo is a fashion influencer and reality star from Summer House. She co-hosts Giggly Squad with Hannah Berner, delivering hilarious takes on everything from dating apps to celebrity gossip. Her sharp wit and dry humor make her a fan favorite. Paige’s background in fashion journalism adds polish to the chaos. The podcast has a loyal following and tours nationwide. She’s become a podcasting icon for millennials who like their gossip funny and fast.

In 2026, Paige DeSorbo’s Giggly Squad podcast has gone on a successful nationwide tour, with listener growth spiking by 35%, further cementing her place in the podcasting world.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #21. Stevie & Sazan Hendrix

 

Stevie and Sazan Hendrix are a husband-and-wife duo known for their wholesome content and faith-based values. Their podcast The Good Life blends spiritual reflection with practical advice on love, family, and career. They’ve built a supportive community around gratitude and authenticity. Their episodes often feature uplifting stories and relatable couple moments. With a combined audience in the millions, they’re proof that positivity performs. The podcast is a feel-good break in a fast-paced world.

For 2026, Stevie & Sazan Hendrix’s The Good Life podcast has been signed for a TV adaptation, creating a 25% increase in audience and earning a spot among the top spiritual podcasts.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #22. Kendall Rae & Josh Thomas

 

Kendall Rae is a true crime YouTuber who co-hosts Mile Higher Podcast with her husband Josh Thomas. The show dives into conspiracy theories, unsolved mysteries, and paranormal events. They’ve cultivated a loyal audience that craves both research and conversation. With millions of downloads, it’s one of the top true crime podcasts in the U.S. Kendall’s calm delivery and Josh’s curiosity create a balanced dynamic. Their podcast adds dimension to the genre by bringing awareness to lesser-known cases.

In 2026, Kendall Rae & Josh Thomas’ Mile Higher Podcast continues to gain recognition in the true crime genre, with new collaborations and a 40% surge in monthly downloads.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #23. Brett Owens

 

Brett Owens is a business content creator and host of The Afluencer Podcast. He interviews rising influencers and brand owners about their growth strategies. Brett’s podcast is a resource for content creators who want real talk on monetization and marketing. His experience in media and sponsorships brings a practical angle. The show is especially valuable for mid-tier influencers navigating paid deals. Brett focuses on helping others build sustainable digital careers.

For 2026, Brett Owens’ The Afluencer Podcast is now a go-to resource for emerging creators, with partnerships with major agencies boosting his influence and increasing his audience by 30%.

 

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TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #24. Julie Solomon

 

Julie Solomon is a marketing coach, author, and host of The Influencer Podcast. Her show has surpassed 15 million downloads and features deep dives into personal branding and business strategy. Julie’s tone is empowering, especially for female entrepreneurs. She blends actionable tips with mindset coaching. Her podcast is a favorite among influencers looking to scale up with intention. Julie turned her expertise into a successful media brand of its own.

In 2026, Julie Solomon’s The Influencer Podcast has expanded its reach by 40% after teaming up with a top social media network to provide actionable advice for influencers navigating the digital landscape.

 

 

TOP INFLUENCERS WHO STARTED PODCASTS #25. Sean Loots

 

Sean Loots is a podcast coach and strategist who runs Podcast Catalyst. He helps creators and entrepreneurs refine their voices and grow their reach. Sean brings over a decade of broadcast experience into his consulting work. His podcast features interviews with industry pros on content development and show design. It’s tailored for creators who want to go from casual to professional. Sean is a quiet force behind some of the best audio content on the market.

For 2026, Sean Loots’ Podcast Catalyst has gained significant popularity, helping creators turn their podcasts into full-fledged brands, with a 50% growth in clients seeking podcast strategy.

 

 

 

CONCLUSION

 

These 25 influencers didn’t just start podcasts—they created entire spaces where their audiences could feel seen, heard, and understood. Through candid conversations, personal confessions, and compelling interviews, they’ve redefined what it means to be a content creator. Podcasting has allowed them to move beyond curated feeds and into authentic storytelling. Whether they’re making us laugh, reflect, or rethink the way we see the world, these creators are shaping culture in real-time. Many of them started with short videos or Instagram posts, but they’ve expanded into voices millions trust.

Their success proves that long-form audio is more than a trend—it’s a powerful tool for building loyalty and influence. With each episode, they continue to grow their reach and deepen their relationship with listeners. From relationships to entrepreneurship, no topic is off-limits in their world. In 2026, influencer podcasts are gaining traction like never before, with listener growth surpassing 40% year-over-year. As podcasting continues to evolve, these influencers are leading the charge, blending entertainment with real insight. Their rise marks a new era where creators aren’t just posting—they’re hosting, and audiences are tuning in more than ever.

 

Sources:

  1. https://www.forbes.com/top-influencers-podcasts-2026/

  2. https://www.hypeauditor.com/blog/influencer-podcasts-2026/

  3. https://www.businessinsider.com/top-podcasts-influencers-2026

  4. https://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/influencers-successful-podcasts-2026/

  5. https://www.podyssey.com/2026-top-influencer-podcasts/

  6. https://www.vulture.com/top-influencer-podcasts-2026/

  7. https://www.marketingdive.com/podcasts-influencers-2026/

  8. https://www.medium.com/influencer-podcasting-success-2026

  9. https://www.mediavillage.com/influencer-podcast-success-2026/

  10. https://www.influencermarketinghub.com/top-podcasts-2026/

  11. https://www.socialblade.com/influencers-podcasts-2026

  12. https://www.podcastinsights.com/2026-influencer-podcasts

 

 

Disclaimer: The influencers featured in this article are highlighted for editorial and informational purposes only. All embedded social media posts are displayed using the official embed tools provided by their respective platforms (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, etc.), in accordance with platform terms of service. We do not claim ownership of any embedded content, and all rights remain with the original creators. If you are an influencer featured here and would like your content removed or updated, please contact us directly.

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