Joe Rogan is one of the most popular and influential podcasters worldwide, known for his candid conversations with a wide range of guests.
However, since December 2020, his podcast has been exclusively on Spotify. You won’t find his show on Apple Podcasts or YouTube.
This may come as a surprise to many, considering the platforms’ dominance in the podcasting industry. So what made Joe move?
Why Is Joe Rogan Not On Apple Podcast?
Joe Rogan is not on Apple Podcast because he recently signed an exclusive deal worth $200 million with Spotify. All his podcast content is now exclusively available on the Spotify platform.
So it’s safe to say that the decision to move away from Apple Podcast and make Spotify the sole distributor of his show was a strategic move encouraged by money. Think of it: Who would refuse a $200 million deal?
The Popularity Of Joe Rogan’s Podcast
Joe Rogan’s podcast, the Joe Rogan Experience (JRE), has gained immense popularity and is estimated to be the most listened-to podcast in the world.
According to Joe Rogan’s website, JRE has captivated a large and dedicated audience with over three billion downloads.
Not only is it the most downloaded podcast in the United States, but it also tops the charts in countries like Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, as reported by Podtrac.
This widespread success is a testament to Joe Rogan’s ability to engage listeners and provide them with valuable and entertaining content.
One of the reasons behind JRE’s popularity is its ability to attract a diverse audience that extends beyond English-speaking listeners.
According to Chartable, JRE is also the most downloaded podcast in Brazil, Spain, and Mexico. This international reach further contributes to its status as one of the most popular podcasts worldwide.
A Brief Overview Of The Podcast’s Success
The success of JRE can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, Joe Rogan’s unique conversational style and ability to connect with his guests have made the podcast highly engaging and entertaining.
His interviews cover various topics, from science and technology to politics and comedy, ensuring something for everyone. This versatility in content appeals to a diverse audience and keeps them returning for more.
Additionally, Joe Rogan’s reputation as a trusted and respected figure in the entertainment industry has also played a significant role in the podcast’s popularity.
As a well-known comedian, UFC commentator, and television host, Rogan has built a loyal fan base.
His credibility and expertise add value to the interviews conducted on JRE, attracting high-profile guests eager to share their insights and experiences with his listeners.
Furthermore, the long-form nature of JRE sets it apart from other podcasts. With episodes often lasting for several hours, Joe Rogan allows his guests to delve deep into their respective fields or discuss personal stories at length.
This format encourages in-depth conversations and gives listeners a more comprehensive understanding of the discussed topics.
Potential Limitations Of The Spotify Deal
The Spotify deal presented several potential limitations worth noting. One of these limitations is that the Joe Rogan Experience is now exclusive to Spotify.
This means that listeners who prefer other podcast platforms, such as Apple or Google Podcasts, can no longer access his content.
And it’s fair to imagine that this exclusivity might have taken away some of his audience. Another downside of the Spotify deal is the introduction of ads. While nobody really cares about the ads today, they can be quite a nuisance.
Constant interruptions from ads can disrupt the user experience and detract from the platform’s overall enjoyment. The move to Spotify also raised concerns about content control and censorship.
Spotify has content guidelines and policies that may lead to certain topics or controversial discussions being moderated or removed, which could limit the freedom of expression that Rogan’s podcast was known for on other platforms.
More than 100 episodes of JRE were removed from the platform censorship row, defeating the reason for his podcast.
Other Sources Of Income For Joe Rogan
Joe Rogan is a multi-talented individual who has found success in various fields. Apart from his renowned career as a podcaster, he has established other sources of income that have contributed to his overall success and financial stability.
1. MMA Commentary – Joe Rogan has established himself as a prominent figure in the MMA community, garnering widespread recognition for his contributions to the sport.
His prowess as a sports commentator has earned him immense respect and a substantial income. Joe Rogan is estimated to earn approximately $2 million per year as a sports commentator.
2. Partnership with Onnit – Joe Rogan has emerged as the prominent figurehead of Onnit, a renowned company that produces supplements, fitness equipment, and other health and wellness-related products.
With a 50% stake in the company, Rogan’s association with Onnit has proven immensely beneficial for him in terms of financial growth.
This lucrative partnership has significantly contributed to an increase in Rogan’s income, which can be attributed to the impressive annual sales figure of approximately $28 million achieved by Onnit.
Rogan has become synonymous with health and wellness through his affiliation with this thriving brand.
3. Comedy Tours & Shows – Before establishing himself as an MMA commentator, Rogan had a successful career as a stand-up comedian.
He continues to perform live shows across the globe, which not only serve as a platform for him to connect with his fans but also generate substantial revenue.
Rogan’s comedy tours sell out quickly, attracting audiences eager to experience his unique blend of humor and insightful commentary on various topics.
Additionally, he has also released several comedy specials on platforms like Netflix. With an estimated annual income of $30 million, Joe stands as one of the most-paid comedians in the world.
Creative Freedom Joe Rogan Gained By Leaving Apple Podcasts
Joe Rogan’s transition from Apple Podcasts to Spotify marked a pivotal moment in his podcasting career, allowing him to expand creative freedom and control over his content.
One of the freedoms he enjoyed by this move was reducing content restrictions.
Unlike Apple Podcasts, Spotify’s policies on podcast content are generally more lenient, enabling Rogan to delve into a diverse array of subjects, even those deemed controversial or explicit, without fear of content moderation or censorship.
Independence from platform-specific guidelines was also a notable advantage. Apple Podcasts had specific guidelines for podcast creators, including constraints related to explicit content.
By transitioning to Spotify, Rogan found himself less bound by these platform-specific rules, granting him the liberty to fashion content more aligned with his creative vision.
Furthermore, this move provided him with a large scope for guest selection. With increased financial resources and creative autonomy, Joe Rogan could entice a broader spectrum of guests, encompassing scientists, politicians, controversial figures, and more.
This diversification broadened the podcast’s content horizons, fostering a richer and more eclectic array of discussions.
What Other Podcasts Have Exclusive Deals With Spotify?
It is common for Spotify to enter into time-limited exclusive agreements with podcasters. Once these deals expire, the podcasts are available on other platforms besides Spotify.
This strategy allows Spotify to attract a larger audience while ensuring that top shows are not permanently restricted to their platform. Here are a few Spotify-exclusive podcasts that are now more widely distributed:
- Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard – This highly acclaimed comedy/interview show was initially available exclusively on Spotify for several years. However, it has expanded its reach and can be found on other platforms.
- Call Her Daddy – the podcast from Barstool Sports, was a significant addition to Spotify’s roster. While it enjoyed an exclusive period on the platform, it ended in 2021, allowing for broader availability of new episodes.
- Anything Goes with Emma Chamberlain – initially launched on Spotify, showcasing the talents of the popular YouTube star. However, in addition to its presence on Spotify, new podcast episodes can now be found on YouTube.
- Criminal – This popular true crime podcast from PRX signed the deal with Spotify in 2019, but it’s now available on other platforms as the exclusive window is over.
Conclusion
The absence of Joe Rogan on Apple Podcasts can be pinpointed to Rogan’s decision to sign an exclusive deal with Spotify.
This move allowed Spotify exclusive rights to distribute his podcast, limiting its availability on other platforms.
Additionally, Rogan’s preference for a more flexible and uncensored approach to his content might not align with Apple’s stricter guidelines and regulations.
Whatever the reason, it is clear that Joe Rogan’s absence on Apple Podcasts has left fans and listeners curious and eager to find alternative ways to access his popular show.