Alexandra Cooper, the 29-year-old host of Spotify’s “Call Her Daddy” podcast, is making waves across the media landscape this week. From high-profile television appearances to fashion spreads in The Wall Street Journal, Cooper’s influence is poised to expand further with a pivotal role during the upcoming Olympics in Paris.
Cooper, whose podcast boasts 3.7 million followers, ranks among Spotify’s top broadcasters, trailing only Joe Rogan and Ted Talks Daily in audience size. Her current contract, a staggering $60 million deal signed in 2021, is set to expire this December, sparking intense negotiations with both Spotify and SiriusXM. Reports suggest Cooper could potentially secure a groundbreaking $100 million deal, making her the highest-paid woman in podcasting.
As podcasting giants like Spotify navigate profitability challenges following extensive investments in content and infrastructure, Cooper stands as a beacon of lucrative potential in an evolving industry. Spotify’s recent cost-cutting measures underscore its shifting priorities amid a volatile market.
Despite these financial adjustments, monumental podcasting deals remain prevalent. Just days ago, Dax Shepard announced an $80 million agreement with Amazon’s Wondery, highlighting ongoing competition for top-tier talent. Cooper, in negotiations for a deal that could rival Rogan’s estimated $250 million pact, seeks not only substantial upfront guarantees but also revenue-sharing opportunities and expanded multimedia ventures.
“She’s a rock star on audio, and a star-in-waiting on visual,” one industry insider remarked. “This new deal could change everything for her business.”
Cooper’s journey to podcasting fame began with “Call Her Daddy,” a boundary-pushing show she launched in 2018 alongside former roommate Sofia Franklyn. Initially distributed by Barstool Sports, the podcast moved to Spotify in 2021, sparking a surge in subscriber numbers and solidifying Cooper’s status as a leading voice in contemporary media.
Rich Greenfield of LightShed Partners noted, “Her fans have a relationship with her almost like she’s their best friend,” emphasizing the podcast’s intimate appeal and Cooper’s unique connection with listeners.
ADVERTISEMENT
Beyond podcasting, Cooper’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through ventures like Trending, a Gen Z-focused media company she co-founded with husband Matt Kaplan. Their initiatives include podcast production, book options, and reality show development, underscoring Cooper’s multifaceted approach to media engagement.
Cooper’s upcoming role with NBC during the Olympics underscores her expanding influence. Hosting “Watch with Alex” on Peacock, she aims to bring her candid interview style to a global audience, spotlighting athletes like Simone Biles in prime time segments.
Molly Solomon, NBC Olympics production president, hailed Cooper as “this generation’s Oprah Winfrey,” praising her ability to resonate with younger demographics, particularly women. Greenfield echoed this sentiment, lauding NBC’s strategic move to leverage Cooper’s appeal in rejuvenating Olympic viewership.
Looking ahead, Cooper’s ascent in media promises a blend of high-profile interviews and multimedia ventures, positioning her as a pivotal figure in shaping future broadcasting trends. As negotiations unfold, Cooper’s impact on podcasting and beyond is poised to redefine industry standards, setting new benchmarks for content creators worldwide.
