Dave Portnoy Shares Insights on Succeeding in the Podcasting Landscape

Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy has a wealth of experience in the podcasting industry. Recognizing the complexities of the current podcasting environment, he asserts that being unique and getting in early can significantly contribute to a podcast’s success.

Portnoy recently shared his thoughts with Fox News Digital, stating, “We’ve had every podcast, like, under the sun come through our doors. We were early to a lot of them.” His commitment to innovation has firmly positioned Barstool as an influential player in the industry.

Barstool’s diverse range of podcasts spans various topics. From the immensely popular sports-focused shows like “Pardon My Take” and “Spittin Chiclets” to the more niche discussions in the female-centric podcast “Chicks in the Office,” Barstool offers something for every listener.

A Broad Spectrum of Content

The network prides itself on having a podcast for nearly every interest imaginable. For instance, “Macrodosing” dives into conspiracy theories, while shows like “The Yak” and “KFC Radio” provide entertaining locker-room banter. Meanwhile, “BFFs” fosters candid conversations tailored to a younger audience, and “Fore Play” caters to golf enthusiasts. Not to forget, “Lights Camera Barstool” focuses on the latest in movies, and “Out & About” explores LGBTQ+ culture.

Additionally, the variety continues with “Mostly Sports,” offering commentary primarily on sports, and many comedy and gambling podcasts. Portnoy himself co-hosts “The Unnamed Show,” where he delves into the weekly dynamics and drama within Barstool. Furthermore, there’s even a podcast dedicated to the latest Taylor Swift news titled “Taylor Watch.” This broad array of content aims to capture the interest of a wide audience.

The Essentials for Podcasting Success

Portnoy simplifies the formula for podcasting success, stating that the most crucial elements lie in the host’s engagement and credibility. He mentions the importance of attributes like being interesting, relatable, and honest. Furthermore, he emphasizes that relevance and authenticity resonate with listeners. According to Portnoy, credibility with the audience forms the backbone of any successful podcast.

One of Barstool’s standout successes has been the podcast “Call Her Daddy,” originally co-hosted by Alexandra Cooper and Sofia Franklyn. Their unique discussions attracted a massive following, and Cooper has since become a powerful figure in the media landscape.

Shifting Dynamics in Podcast Ownership

Cooper successfully transitioned the “Call Her Daddy” brand to Spotify, securing a lucrative multi-million-dollar deal. In 2024, she further escalated her career by signing with SiriusXM for a staggering reported $125 million over three years. This evolution demonstrates the evolving nature of podcasting ownership and brand development.

Following her departure from Barstool, Cooper launched her own platform, Unwell Network, where she recently signed influencer Alix Earle. Earle made headlines as Sports Illustrated Swimsuit’s first-ever digital cover star. However, recent reports indicate that the partnership has faced challenges, as Variety disclosed that the pair has since parted ways.

Portnoy’s Perspective on Industry Dynamics

Portnoy found himself in the spotlight when speculation arose around Barstool’s potential signing of Earle. However, he clarified that his playful antics, featuring Earle in a humorous video, aimed to poke fun at Cooper, who previously executed a similar campaign when signing former Barstool host Grace O’Malley. Portnoy explained, “That was a joke. I knew Alix Earle before she even became huge, and I still have a good relationship with her, but I was just kind of mocking and poking fun.”

In discussing why Barstool would not pursue Earle, Portnoy articulated his philosophy regarding successful podcasting models. He noted, “The Barstool model is to find unknown people and then get them big. Once they’re already big, money complaints, the old band label kind of thing arises…” By identifying talent early on and helping them grow, Barstool has created a unique niche in the podcasting industry.

The Future of Barstool and Podcasting

As the podcasting landscape continues to evolve, Portnoy remains optimistic about the potential of Barstool. With an extensive roster of podcasts, a devoted fan base, and a knack for identifying promising talent, Barstool is poised to thrive in this competitive arena. Portnoy’s insights underscore the ongoing importance of authenticity and innovation, marking the ingredients necessary for achieving podcasting success.

As listeners seek fresh perspectives and engaging stories, Barstool’s commitment to diverse content ensures it will retain its status as a key player in the podcasting industry. Keeping a finger on the pulse of changing trends and listener preferences appears to be at the heart of Portnoy’s strategy moving forward.